bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profiting in a Warming World: Investigating the Link Between Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Capitalist Profitability in OECD States
Authors: Soener Matthew
Published: October 2019

Economic growth is a key contributor to climate change, but undergirding growth is capitalist profitability. In this article, I refine this long‐standing relationship between growth and emissions by estimating if the profit rate and the “exploitation rate” (surplus profits / wages and salaries) predict greenhouse gas emissions. I do so in a sample of advanced capitalist economies from 1995 to 2016 with profitability data on four industries (agriculture, manufacturing/construction, energy, and transportation) as well as greenhouse gas emissions data for both those industries and emissions at the national level. Methodologically, I use two‐way fixed effects models and panel‐corrected standard errors. My results show that the total profit and exploitation rates are positively associated with emissions. Exploitation in the transportation and manufacturing/construction sectors, moreover, is also positively associated with emissions. This article provides empirical support for those in environmental sociology claiming that capitalist profitability is a key driver of climate change and ecological change is inseparable from unequal social relations.
Automated grading of acne vulgaris by deep learning with convolutional neural networks
Authors: Lim Ziying Vanessa , Akram Farhan , Ngo Cuong Phuc , Winarto Amadeus Aristo , Lee Wei Qing , Liang Kaicheng , Oon Hazel Hweeboon , Thng Steven Tien Guan , Lee Hwee Kuan
Published: October 2019

Background

The visual assessment and severity grading of acne vulgaris by physicians can be subjective, resulting in inter‐ and intra‐observer variability.

Objective

To develop and validate an algorithm for the automated calculation of the Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) scale, to standardize acne severity and outcome measurements.

Materials and Methods

A total of 472 photographs (retrieved 01/01/2004‐04/08/2017) in the frontal view from 416 acne patients were used for training and testing. Photographs were labeled according to the IGA scale in three groups of IGA clear/almost clear (0‐1), IGA mild (2), and IGA moderate to severe (3‐4). The classification model used a convolutional neural network, and models were separately trained on three image sizes. The photographs were then subjected to analysis by the algorithm, and the generated automated IGA scores were compared to clinical scoring. The prediction accuracy of each IGA grade label and the agreement (Pearson correlation) of the two scores were computed.

Results

The best classification accuracy was 67%. Pearson correlation between machine‐predicted score and human labels (clinical scoring and researcher scoring) for each model and various image input sizes was 0.77. Correlation of predictions with clinical scores was highest when using Inception v4 on the largest image size of 1200 × 1600. Two sets of human labels showed a high correlation of 0.77, verifying the repeatability of the ground truth labels. Confusion matrices show that the models performed sub‐optimally on the IGA 2 label.

Conclusion

Deep learning techniques harnessing high‐resolution images and large datasets will continue to improve, demonstrating growing potential for automated clinical image analysis and grading.
The HLA‐B*13:01:01:03 allele characterized in four individuals from the tribal population of Nagaland, North‐East India
Authors: Keppen Chenole , Sharma Akanksha , Gautam Shashi K. , Khamo Vinotsole , Kanga Uma
Published: October 2019

A single nucleotide change (G to T) in HLA‐B*13:01:01:01 results in the novel allele, HLA‐B*13:01:01:03.
Places of the Holocaust: Towards a model of GIS of place
Authors: Giordano Alberto , Cole Tim
Published: October 2019

Progress toward developing a GIS of place can only follow from an understanding of what place is, and this understanding draws on geographical theory. Here—following Agnew, Tuan, and others—we consider place as being made up of three components—location, locale, and sense of place—which are recognizable at multiple scales and vary historically as a product of social and political processes. Using the testimonies of two survivors of the Holocaust, we sketch the components of a model for a GIS of place that allows for this theory of place to be visualized and analyzed. The model is, crucially, both multi‐scalar and sensitive to uncertainty, as a GIS of place needs to be able to zoom in and out of the different scales at which place is experienced, as well as capture both uncertain data and uncertainty as data. We see potential in the representations proposed for scaling up from the anecdotal to the general in the sense that any narrative can be grouped and classified according to places and scales as shown here. The challenge in developing a GIS of place along the lines we propose here is to design a new set of functionalities that can do so.
Clostridioides difficile infection and recurrence among 2622 solid organ transplant recipients
Authors: Schluger Aaron , Rosenblatt Russell , Knotts Rita , Verna Elizabeth C. , Pereira Marcus R.
Published: October 2019

Background

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is common after solid organ transplant (SOT) and is associated with high morbidity and mortality.

Methods

We assessed incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of CDI among SOT patients at a large multi‐organ transplant center. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for initial and recurrent CDI.

Results

A total of 2622 SOT patients were included. 224 (8.5%) had CDI 1 year post‐SOT. The highest incidence of CDI was among pancreas recipients (12.5%) followed by lung (11.7%), liver (11.0%), heart (10.8%), and kidney (5.8%). Median time to CDI was 56 days (range 2‐354) post‐SOT. About 64% of patients had severe CDI. About 56.3% were treated with metronidazole, 13.8% with oral vancomycin, and 28.6% with both. About 28.6% of patients had recurrent CDI. In multivariable modeling, lung transplant recipient status was the only significant predictor of recurrent CDI (OR 4.97, 95% CI 2.11‐11.78, P < .001) controlling for age, severe CDI, and pre‐SOT CDI. Post‐SOT CDI nearly doubled the risk of mortality at one year, in particular among those with severe CDI.

Conclusions

In summary, CDI is highly prevalent, occurs early in the post‐transplant period, usually severe, with a high rate of recurrence, and associated with increased mortality within 1 year after transplant. The early post‐transplant period may be a crucial window to reduce CDI rates.
Caracterización de los recién nacidos con asfixia perinatal moderada o severa manejados con hipotermia cerebral selectiva en la Unidad de Recién Nacidos del Hospital Universitario San Ignacio desde junio de 2015 hasta marzo de 2017
Authors: Vargas-Vaca Yaris , Devia Claudia , Bertolotto Ana María , Suárez Obando Fernando
Published: October 2019

Introducción: La encefalopatía hipóxico-isquémica altera el sistema nervioso central del recién nacido, con consecuencias que incluyen desde discapacidad física y mental hasta muerte. La moderada a severa debe manejarse con hipotermia terapéutica. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas de un grupo de neonatos con encefalopatía tratados con hipotermia terapéutica en la Unidad de Cuidado Intensivo Neonatal del Hospital Universitario San Ignacio. Metodología: Estudio observacional de corte trasversal secuencial, desde junio de 2015 hasta marzo de 2017. Se compararon las variables continúas utilizando la T de Student. Se analizaron las frecuencias relativas y se compararon según variantes de interés clínico utilizando chi cuadrado. Resultados: El programa atendió 41 pacientes durante el periodo de observación. se evidenciaron convulsiones clínicas en el 65 % de los sujetos. El principal desenlace clínico observado al egreso luego de la intervención fue algún grado de encefalopatía (90 %). Los determinantes clínicos del nacimiento del neonato se comparan con el desenlace muerte, donde no se encontraron diferencias significativas entre ambos grupos, a excepción de Apgar a los 10 minutos y acidemia. Para el desenlace muerte, RP mayores a 1 en el caso de cesárea, incremento de tiempo de coagulación, trombocitopenia, hipocalcemia y alteración de la función renal (p < 0,05 e IC-95 %: >1). Conclusiones: El Apgar bajo a los 10 minutos y la acidemia presentaron mayor mortalidad. Hubo mayor prevalencia de alteraciones de coagulación, electrolíticas y renales en el grupo con desenlace letal. El tiempo de inicio de la terapia se relacionó con convulsiones, mas no con muerte.
Perspective on State-of-Health Determination in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Dubarry Matthieu , Baure George , Anseán David
Published: October 2019

State-of-health (SOH) is an essential parameter for the proper functioning of large battery packs. A wide array of methodologies has been proposed in the literature to track state of health, but they often lack the proper validation that needed to be universally adaptable to large deployed systems. This is likely induced by the lack of knowledge bridge between scientists, who understand batteries, and engineers, who understand controls. In this work, we will attempt to bridge this gap by providing definitions, concepts, and tools to apply necessary material science knowledge to advanced battery management systems (BMS). We will address SOH determination and prediction, as well as BMS implementation and validation using the mechanistic framework developed around electrochemical voltage spectroscopies. Particular focus will be set on the onset and the prediction of the second stage of accelerating capacity loss that is commonly observed in commercial lithium-ion batteries.
Effect of Time-Dependent Strength Recovery of Composite Materials: Quantification Through Higher Order Ultrasonic Non-Linearity Using Lamb Waves
Authors: Patra Subir , Ahmed Hossain , Saadatzi Mohammadsadegh , Banerjee Sourav
Published: October 2019

The understanding of strength recovery behavior under a dynamic loading environment provides a guidance for optimizing the design of composite structures for in-service applications. Although established for metals, the quantification of strength recovery in carbon fiber-reinforced viscoelastic composites is still an area under active research. This study aims to understand the effects of fatigue loading rates on the damage behaviors of stress-relaxed carbon fiber-based composites. Hence, the time-dependent strength recovery in woven composites is quantified experimentally using two mutually exclusive approaches under identical fatigue loading environments. In the first approach, the strength recovery is quantified by the dissipated non-linearity in Lamb wave propagation due to the damage state of the composite materials. This is quantified and shown coupled with second- and third-order non-linear parameters. In the second approach, ultrasonic acoustic pressure waves are utilized to quantify the fatigue-induced internal stress and the damage accumulation. A comparison of these two approaches leads to the assessment of strength reduction which is experimentally validated with the remaining strength of the specimens.
Prediction of Friction Coefficients During Scratch Based on an Integrated Finite Element and Artificial Neural Network Method
Authors: Xie Haibo , Wang Zhanjiang , Qin Na , Du Wenhao , Qian Linmao
Published: October 2019

An integrated finite element and artificial neural network method is used to analyze the impact of scratch process parameters on some variables related to elastoplastic deformation of titanium alloy. The elastoplastic constitutive parameters applied for scratch simulations are obtained from the nanoindentation experiments and finite element analysis. The validity of the finite element model of scratch is confirmed by comparing the friction forces from simulations to those from experiments. The input parameters of the artificial neural network are three scratch process parameters: tip normal force, tip radius, and shear friction coefficient. The outputs are four variables related to material deformation measured during scratch: scratch depth, elastic recovery height, plowing height, and plowing friction coefficient. The network is trained with pairs of input and output datasets generated by scratch simulations. The prediction results of the neural network are in agreement with the finite element results. The model provides assistance for the prediction and analysis of complex relationships between scratch process parameters and variables related to material deformation, and between the plowing friction coefficient and the relevant parameters. The results show the independence of scratch depth and the shear friction coefficient, and the positive relationships between the shear friction coefficient and plowing friction coefficient.
Design for the Marketing Mix: The Past, Present, and Future of Market-Driven Engineering Design
Authors: Donndelinger Joseph A. , Ferguson Scott M.
Published: October 2019

The four Ps of the marketing mix (Product, Price, Place, and Promotion) serve as a framework for characterizing the marketing decisions made during the product development process. In this paper, we describe how the last 40 years of engineering design research has increasingly incorporated representations of preference as a means of addressing the decisions that come with each “P.” We argue that this incorporation began with problem formulations based on Product only, with surrogates of preference posed as objectives (such as minimizing weight, minimizing part count) representing a firm's desire for offering a mix of products while reducing cost and maximizing profit. As the complexity of problem formulations progressed, researchers began representing preferences of the designer (using decision theory techniques) and of the customer (often in the form of random utility models). The Design for Market Systems special session was created specifically in the Design Automation Conference for advancing our understanding of design in the content of a market, extending from the decision-based design framework introduced by Hazelrigg. Since then, researchers have explored the engineering design problem formulation challenges associated with the marketing decisions of Price, Place, and Promotion. This paper highlights the advancements of the design community in each of the Ps and shows how the marketing decisions of Place and Promotion extend from the central hub of considering Price in an engineering design problem. We also highlight the exciting research opportunities that exist as the community considers more complicated, and interconnected, problem formulations that encompass the entirety of the Marketing Mix.
Force and Stability Modeling for Non-Standard Edge Geometry Endmills
Authors: No Timothy , Gomez Michael , Copenhaver Ryan , Perez Juan Uribe , Tyler Christopher , Schmitz Tony L.
Published: October 2019

This paper describes a reverse engineering solution for modeling the behavior of non-standard edge geometry endmills. Structured light scanning is used to produce a solid model of the endmill and spatial coordinates for the points that define the cutting edges that are extracted. These points are then used to determine the cutting edge radius and angle at equally spaced points along the tool's axis. This cutting edge geometry is applied directly in a time domain simulation that predicts the cutting force and tool/workpiece deflection for user-selected operating parameters. A good agreement between predicted and measured cutting forces is first demonstrated for two non-standard edge geometry endmills. Second, the results of stability tests are compared with simulation predictions for multiple spindle speed-axial depth of cut combinations using one of the endmills. The time records are analyzed by periodically sampling the measured and predicted displacement and velocity. Third, the time domain simulation is used to generate a stability map that separately identifies stable (forced vibration) behavior, secondary Hopf bifurcations, and period-n bifurcations.
Residual Stress Regenerated on Low Plasticity Burnished Inconel 718 Surface After Initial Turning Process
Authors: Hua Yang , Liu Zhanqiang , Wang Bing , Jiang Jiaming
Published: October 2019

Low plasticity burnishing (LPB) has been extensively employed in aero-industry to enhance fatigue performance of machined components by introducing compressive residual stress. Effects of various parameters on the residual stress field induced by low plasticity burnishing have been investigated by many researchers. However, initial residual stresses induced by machining are one of the important factors which affect the residual stress regenerated by the LPB process. The present work aims to develop an analytical model which takes into account the initial residual stress and burnishing parameters to predict residual stress field of workpiece material Inconel 718 based on Hertz contact theory and elastic–plastic theory. Initial residual stress fields were produced by turning of Inconel 718 and were measured by using X-ray diffraction technique. Two types of material constitutive models such as the linear hardening model and isotropic–kinematic model were employed to describe the elastic–plastic behavior of workpiece material Inconel 718. An analytical study was performed to analyze the effect of the initial residual stress field and burnishing parameters on residual stress induced by low plastic burnishing. The results of analytical model were verified by conducting the LPB experiments on initial turned Inconel 718. The results showed that the shape and magnitude of the residual stress field obtained with considering the effect of initial residual stress field was in good accordance with experimental measurements.
Exploiting nanogroove-induced cell culture anisotropy to advance in vitro brain models
Authors: Bastiaens Alex , Frimat Jean-Philippe , van Nunen Teun , Luttge Regina
Published: October 2019

A new generation of in vitro human brain models is vital to surpass the limitations of current cell culture platforms and animal cell lines in studying brain function and diseases. Brain-on-chip technology can generate well-defined and reproducible platforms to control the cellular microenvironment for in vivo-like, organized brain cell cultures. Previously, the authors investigated differentiation and network organization of the neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line on nanogrooved substrates, showing that nanogroove guidance of neuronal outgrowths is dependent on nanogroove dimensions. Further, increased orientation of neurites was positively correlated to the differentiation of SH-SY5Y cells. However, as mimicking brain structure alone is insufficient, here, the function of the neuronal cell network as dependent on surface topography and material stiffness is investigated. A generalized replication protocol was developed to create similar nanogrooved patterns in cell culture substrates from different materials, specifically polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and Ostemer. Experiments using calcium imaging, where calcium fluxes across membranes are visualized as an indication of action potentials in neuronal cells, were performed with differentiated SH-SY5Y cells and human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neuronal cells (hiPSCNs) on flat versus nanogrooved substrates to study the network function. Calcium live-imaging was performed and results for experiments with SH-SY5Y cells and hiPSCNs showed that nanogrooved PDMS substrates trended toward increased cellular activity and neuronal cell network connectivity. For future investigation of compatible substrate materials in combination with the effect of material stiffness on the cells, nanogrooved Ostemer substrates were demonstrated to faithfully replicate for use in neuronal cell cultures using nanogrooved substrates. First experiments into the neuronal cell function using stem cells described here aid toward elucidating the effect of nanotopographical and mechanical properties and their benefits toward advancing in vitro neuronal cell models both in form and function. Overall, the results indicate, in conjunction with the previous findings on neuronal outgrowth guidance, that anisotropy as introduced by nanogrooved substrates can have a controllable and potentially beneficial influence on neuronal cell cultures.
Comparison of Pathogenicity of Invasive and Carried Meningococcal Isolates of ST-4821 Complex in China
Authors: Guo Pengbo , Zhu Bingqing , Liang Hao , Gao Wanying , Zhou Guilan , Xu Li , Gao Yuan , Yu Jianxing , Zhang Maojun , Shao Zhujun
Published: October 2019

Serotype 4821 (ST-4821) clonal complex (cc4821)
Neisseria meningitidis
strains are divided into two groups (groups I and II) according to the core genome-based phylogenetic analysis. Group I contains the greater number of invasive disease isolates. However, the differences in pathogenicity between the two groups are unclear.
Rhodoccoccus erythropolis
Is Different from Other Members of
Actinobacteria
: Monoploidy, Overlapping Replication Cycle, and Unique Segregation Pattern
Authors: Singhi Divya , Goyal Aashima , Gupta Gunjan , Yadav Aniruddh , Srivastava Preeti
Published: October 2019

Rhodococci are highly versatile Gram-positive bacteria with high bioremediation potential. Some rhodococci are pathogenic and have been suggested as emerging threats. No studies on the replication, segregation, and cell cycle of these bacteria have been reported. Here, we demonstrate that the genus
Rhodococcus
is different from other actinomycetes, such as members of the genera
Corynebacterium
,
Mycobacterium
, and
Streptomyces
, with respect to ploidy and chromosome organization and segregation. Such studies will be useful not only in designing better therapeutics pathogenic strains in the future but also for studying genome maintenance in strains used for bioremediation.
Comparative Genomics Reveals a Well-Conserved Intrinsic Resistome in the Emerging Multidrug-Resistant Pathogen Cupriavidus gilardii
Authors: Ruiz Cristian , McCarley Ashley , Espejo Manuel Luis , Cooper Kerry K. , Harmon Dana E.
Published: October 2019

Cupriavidus gilardii
is a bacterium that is gaining increasing attention both as an infectious agent and because of its potential use in the detoxification of toxic compounds and other biotechnological applications. In recent years, however, there has been an increasing number of reported infections, some of them fatal, caused by
C. gilardii
. These infections are hard to treat because this bacterium is naturally resistant to many antibiotics, including last-resort antibiotics, such as carbapenems. Moreover, this bacterium often becomes resistant to additional antibiotics during therapy. However, little is known about
C. gilardii
and its antibiotic resistance mechanisms. The significance of our research is in providing, for the first time, whole-genome information about the natural antibiotic resistance genes found in this bacterium and their conservation among different
C. gilardii
strains. This information may provide new insights into the appropriate use of antibiotics in combating infections caused by this emerging pathogen.
mSphere of Influence: the Power of Yeast Genetics Still Going Strong!
Authors: Santiago-Tirado Felipe H.
Published: October 2019

Felipe Santiago-Tirado studies the cell biology of cryptococcal infections.
Cardiac rehabilitation for heart failure can improve quality of life and fitness
Authors: Cook Rob , Davidson Peter , Martin Rosie
Published: October 2019

The study

Taylor RS, Walker S, Ciani O, et al. Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation for chronic heart failure: the EXTRAMATCH II individual participant data meta-analysis. Health Technol Assess 2019;23:1-98.

This project was funded by the NIHR Health Technology Assessment Programme (project number 15/80/30).

To read the full NIHR Signal, go to https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-000803/cardiac-rehabilitation-for-heart-failure-can-improve-quality-of-life-and-fitness
Intermittent lighting program does not hinder the performance of broiler chickens and promotes energy economy
Authors: Manfio Ezequiel Somavilla , Jácome Ianglio Márcio Travassos Duarte , Serpa Felipe Cardoso , Zanchin Leonardo Faccenda , de Castro Burbarelli Maria Fernanda , Przybulinski Bruna Barreto , Barbosa Deivid Kelly , Garcia Rodrigo Garofallo
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of broiler chickens in different lighting programs. Broiler chickens were fed on feeders of different colours at different breeding phases. In total, 240 Cobb500™ chicks mixed at 1 d of age were used. They were distributed in a completely randomized design. The treatments followed a 2 × 4 factorial design: two lighting programs (continuous and intermittent), and four colours of feeders (white, green, blue, and red). The birds were evaluated for weekly productive performance and the data were submitted to analysis of variance and later Tukey’s test for comparison of means. In the periods 1–7, 1–21, and 1–42 d of age, lighting programs and feeder colours affected weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion. Intermittent red feeders influenced positively the performance of birds. It is possible to replace conventional lighting programs for intermittent lighting programs. Red feeders exert a positive influence on the performance of broiler chickens.
Association of ABCB1 polymorphisms with lipid homeostasis and liver injury response to atorvastatin in the Chinese population
Authors: Qu Kan-Kan , Zhang Chen-Ning , Dong Li-Xia , Wang Shu-Shan , Zhang Zhong-Dong , Zhang Lin
Published: October 2019

The present research was to assess the relationship between ABCB1 (G2677T/A, C3435T) polymorphisms and lipid homeostasis as well as risk of liver injury induced by atorvastatin in in-patients from China. The lipid levels (total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides) as well as metabolic enzymes of hepar (glutamic–pyruvic transaminase, glutamic–oxalacetic transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase) in plasma for 162 patients were measured at baseline and after approximately 6 months of atorvastatin treatment. Polymorphisms of the ABCB1 gene were determined using the Snapshot technique. The associations between genetic polymorphisms and lipid levels as well as hepar indexes were evaluated at the end of medical treatment. Based on one-way ANOVA analysis, patients with the 2677GG or 3435TT genotypes showed a remarkable decrease in percentage when the level of TC was above 4.00 mmol·L−1, separately (P < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in percentage in the frequency of patients with the 2677GG genotype (low-density lipoprotein > 2.00 mmol·L−1) (P < 0.05). The level of glutamic–pyruvic transaminase in patients with the 2677GG or 3435CC genotype displayed a significantly increase in percentage, respectively (P < 0.05). The ABCB1 G-C haplotype carriers were associated with an increased risk of AILI. The results provide evidence for clinically individualised utilisation of atorvastatin for lipid homeostasis as well as risk of induced liver injury in the Chinese population.
ENERGY SECURITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFICIENCY: EVIDENCE FROM OECD COUNTRIES
Authors: SUN HUAPING , IKRAM MUHAMMAD , MOHSIN MUHAMMAD , ABBAS QAISER
Published: October 2019

Assessment of energy and environmental issues has received a special focus due to global warming and climate vulnerabilities. Energy, environment and economic development simultaneously yielded a combined effect, which is favorable from the economic point of view while unfavorable for environmental aspects. It is necessary to measure the energy, economic and environmental performance with appropriate methods. Therefore, this study measures the energy security and environmental efficiency. Data used in this study were collected from the official website of International Energy Agency (IEA), British Petroleum (BP) and World Bank. We employ a non-radial DEA technology for assessing energy and environmental efficiency for OECD countries. Results reveal that the values of energy intensity range from 0.93 to 0.30, while GHG emission per capita values range from 24.61 to 5.28. As far as energy efficiency is concerned, Iceland and Greece have the highest value (0.99) of energy efficiency, whereas Ireland has the lowest value (0.34) of energy efficiency. Further analysis shows that Austria, Australia, Portugal and Spain have values between 0.70 and 0.80 for energy intensity, whereas UK, Sweden, Germany and the USA have values of energy intensity, between 0.40 and 0.50. The study proposes some valuable policy implications for policy and decision-makers to make the environment more sustainable.
DIRECTIONAL ACCURACY OF SINGAPORE’S MACROECONOMIC FORECASTS
Authors: AHN YOUNG BIN , TSUCHIYA YOICHI
Published: October 2019

This study examines the directional accuracy of Singapore’s macroeconomic forecasts by professional forecasters, government agencies (i.e., central bank and Ministry of Trade and Industry, MTI), and international organizations. The results show that government agencies provide the most directionally accurate forecasts, suggesting that the macroeconomic and monetary policies are effective. Current-year forecasts are generally directionally accurate, with disparities among forecasters for next-year forecasts. Regarding GDP growth, the MTI and International Monetary Fund (IMF) provide directionally accurate forecasts up to four quarters ahead, whereas other forecasters provide them for at most three quarters ahead. For consumer price index inflation, except for the IMF, all others provide directionally accurate forecasts up to four quarters ahead.
INFLUENCE OF MACROECONOMIC STABILITY ON FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN DEVELOPING ECONOMIES: EVIDENCE FROM WEST AFRICAN REGION
Authors: EHIGIAMUSOE KIZITO UYI , LEAN HOOI HOOI , CHAN JIN HOOI
Published: October 2019

This paper examines the effects of macroeconomic stability on financial development in the West African region. Macroeconomic stability is measured based on five Maastricht Criteria’s variables namely inflation rate, real exchange rate, government debt, fiscal deficit and real interest rate. The study employs dynamic models on the panel data. We find that macroeconomic stability has significant effects on financial development in the region. Specifically, inflation rate, real exchange rate and fiscal deficit have negative effects, while the effects of government debt and real interest rate are positive. The implication of this study is that macroeconomic stability variables are determinants of financial development. Hence, developing economies should strive to achieve macroeconomic stability in order to drive financial development, with a view to achieving sustainable economic development.
Dynamics of scalar shell for rotating and charged rotating BTZ black holes
Authors: Sharif M. , Javed Faisal
Published: October 2019

This paper studies the dynamics of thin-shell for (2 + 1)-dimensional rotating and charged rotating Bañados–Teitelboim–Zanelli black holes by using Israel thin-shell formalism. We consider the matter distribution located at thin-shell associated with a scalar field and analyze its effects on the dynamics of thin-shell through equations of motion and effective potential. The corresponding dynamical equations are numerically studied for both massless as well as massive scalar fields. For rotating case, the rate of expansion and collapse increases with massless scalar shell but decreases for massive case. For charged rotating, the rate of expansion and collapse decreases by increasing angular momentum for both massless as well as massive case. We conclude that the rate of expansion and collapse of the rotating case is greater than charged rotating black hole.
PROCESS PARAMETERS OPTIMIZATION FOR FRICTION VIBRATION JOINING OF POLYPROPYLENE/SPHERI GLASS COMPOSITES USING TOPSIS
Authors: DANIEL D. JAFREY , PANNEERSELVAM K.
Published: October 2019

The rapid growth in the usage of polymers/polymer composites demands innovative welding techniques for joining. In this research work, Polypropylene (PPE) is chosen as the thermoplastic matrix and the filler selected is Spheri Glass 3000 (SGE) at 2.5[Formula: see text]wt.%. In this work, Friction Vibration Joining (FVJ) is used for joining PPE/SGE composites. The FVJ experiments were carried out according to Taguchi [Formula: see text] orthogonal array with input parameters as (i) Tool Profile (TP), (ii) Frequency of Vibrating Tool (FVT) and (iii) Feed Rate of Workpiece (FRW). The joints were analyzed mechanically (tensile strength, impact strength and shore D hardness) and metallurgically (scanning electron microscope). Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) is used for studying the significance of the input factors over output factors. The mechanical characteristics of FVJ joints were optimized by Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS).
Segmentation-driven Hierarchical RetinaNet for Detecting Protozoa in Micrograph
Authors: Pho Khoa , Mohammed Amin Muhamad Kamal , Yoshitaka Atsuo
Published: October 2019

Protozoa detection and identification play important roles in many practical domains such as parasitology, scientific research, biological treatment processes, and environmental quality evaluation. Traditional laboratory methods for protozoan identification are time-consuming and require expert knowledge and expensive equipment. Another approach is using micrographs to identify the species of protozoans that can save a lot of time and reduce the cost. However, the existing methods in this approach only identify the species when the protozoan are already segmented. These methods study features of shapes and sizes. In this work, we detect and identify the images of cysts and oocysts of various species such as: Giardia lamblia, Iodamoeba butschilii, Toxoplasma gondi, Cyclospora cayetanensis, Balantidium coli, Sarcocystis, Cystoisospora belli and Acanthamoeba, which have round shapes in common and affect human and animal health seriously. We propose Segmentation-driven Hierarchical RetinaNet to automatically detect, segment, and identify protozoans in their micrographs. By applying multiple techniques such as transfer learning, and data augmentation techniques, and dividing training samples into life-cycle stages of protozoans, we successfully overcome the lack of data issue in applying deep learning for this problem. Even though there are at most 5 samples per life-cycle category in the training data, our proposed method still achieves promising results and outperforms the original RetinaNet on our protozoa dataset.
Wavelet-packets Associated with Support Vector Machine Are Effective for Monophone Sorting in Music Signals
Authors: Scalvenzi Rafael Rubiati , Guido Rodrigo Capobianco , Marranghello Norian
Published: October 2019

An abstract interpretation is usually required to analyze acoustic compositions. Nevertheless, there is much signal processing-related research focusing on music processing and similar topics. In that context, the semantic information contained in the melody involving major and minor chords, sharps and flats associated with semibreve, minim, crotchet, quaver, semiquaver and demisemiquaver notes can help in the study of musical sounds. Thus, multiresolution analysis based on discrete wavelet-packet transform (DWPT) associated with a support vector machine (SVM) is used in this paper to inspect and classify those signals, correlating them with a respective acoustic pattern. Results over hundreds of inputs provided almost full accuracy, reassuring the efficacy of the proposed approach for both off-line and real-time usage.
Common fixed point theorems under an implicit contractive condition on metric spaces endowed with an arbitrary binary relation and an application
Authors: Ahmadullah Md , Imdad Mohammad , Arif Mohammad
Published: October 2019

The aim of this paper is to establish some metrical coincidence and common fixed point theorems with an arbitrary relation under an implicit contractive condition which is general enough to cover a multitude of well-known contraction conditions in one go besides yielding several new ones. We also provide an example to demonstrate the generality of our results over several well-known corresponding results of the existing literature. Finally, we utilize our results to prove an existence theorem for ensuring the solution of an integral equation.
Simplified Material Solution for Orthotropic Symmetrical GFRP Laminates for Structural Facades
Authors: Zhao Yuchao , Jiang Xu , Zhang Qilin , Qiang Xuhong
Published: October 2019

GFRP (glass‐fiber‐reinforced polymer), as a composite material, possesses many favorable properties including high strength and low weight and is amenable to unique processing methods; therefore, it is a potential free‐form surface material. However, the complex design theory owing to anisotropy limits its application. Thus, a simplified material solution becomes significant. In this study, the strength and stiffness of orthotropic symmetrical GFRP laminates are derived theoretically, and a simplified material solution is proposed to simplify the anisotropy as isotropy. Then, using the numerical simulation of an actual orthotropic symmetrical GFRP laminate free‐form facade structure, the effectiveness of the simplified material solution is analyzed and evaluated. This solution can provide guidance for similar GFRP facades and further promote the application of GFRP in engineering.
High Incidence of Moderately Reduced Renal Function and Lead Bioaccumulation in Agricultural Workers in Assin South District, Ghana: A Community-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Adu Patrick , Forkuo Eric Kumah , Issah Abubakari , Asumadu Isaac Owusu , Cadman-Sackey Emmanuel , Quarshie Augustina A. A. , Gyabaa Sampson , Ephraim Richard K. D.
Published: October 2019

Background. The quest to enhance agricultural productivity and crop yields has led to increased use of agrochemicals on a global scale. Long-term use of these agrochemicals may be associated with adverse health implications. Objective. To assess haematological indices, renal function, heavy metal bioaccumulation in farmers and sprayers, and their use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Materials and Methods. This community-based case-control study was conducted from January 2018 to June 2018 in the Assin South District, Central Region, Ghana. A total of 144 participants were conveniently sampled: 83 agricultural workers (cases) and 61 indigenes with no direct exposure to agrochemicals (controls). Structured questionnaire was used to obtain demographic data as well as agricultural work practices followed by cases. Venous blood samples were drawn from participants and used for estimating full blood count and renal function (serum creatinine (CRE), blood-urea nitrogen (BUN), BUN : CRE ratio, and estimated GFR (eGFR)). Serum lead, arsenic, and cadmium levels were estimated using the Varian AA 240FS atomic spectrometer in an acetylene-air flame. Results. The median RBC (4.49 vs. 4.92 × 1012/L), haemoglobin (12.50 vs. 13.70 g/dL), and platelet (220.00 vs. 268.00) counts were significantly lower in cases. A significantly higher proportion of cases were classified as anaemic or having microcytic cells compared to controls. Also, serum urea (4.08 vs. 3.41; p=0.0009), creatinine (108.10 vs. 101.10; p=0.0286), and BUN : CRE ratio (19.75 vs. 17.84) were significantly higher in cases. Additionally, 18.1% of cases were classified as having moderately reduced renal function compared to only 6.6% of controls. Moreover, a significantly higher proportion of cases had detectable serum lead (55.6% vs. 16.4%) and arsenic (53.1% vs. 9.8%) levels compared to controls. However, on average, 80% of agricultural workers did not use personal protective equipment (PPE) when applying agrochemicals; 84.3% of used agrochemical containments were discarded near the river/canal. Conclusion. Neglect of the use of PPE may be predisposing the agrochemical workers and community to lead and arsenic bioaccumulation with a consequent reduced haematological and renal function.
In Vitro Antileishmanial Activity and GC-MS Analysis of Whole Plant Hexane Fraction of Achillea wilhelmsii (WHFAW)
Authors: Achakzai Jahangir Khan , Anwar Panezai Muhammad , Kakar Abdul Manan , Akhtar Basira , Akbar Ali , Kakar Shahabuddin , Khan Javed , Khan Nazima Yousaf , Khan Ghulam Mustafa , Baloch Nizam , Jan Khoso Muhammad Hashim , Panezai Marina
Published: October 2019

In this study, GC-MS analysis has shown that whole plant hexane fraction of Achillea wilhelmsii (WHFAW) consists of 66 compounds which exhibited antileishmanial activity. Antileishmanial bioassay was the method used for determining antileishmanial activity. The inhibitory concentration (IC50) which was observed for whole plant hexane fraction of Achillea wilhelmsii (WHFAW) against parasitic and vector-borne disease, leishmaniasis, is 58.27 ± 0.52 μg/mL. For leishmanicidal assay, Leishmania major is the species used for analysis. Whole plant methanol extract of Achillea wilhelmsii (WMEAW) and whole plant aqueous fraction of Achillea wilhelmsii (WAFAW) exhibited no antileishmanial activity.
Effect of Tiotropium Bromide on Airway Inflammation and Programmed Cell Death 5 in a Mouse Model of Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Asthma
Authors: Wang Juan , Diao Xiaolin , Zhu Hong , He Bei
Published: October 2019

Rationale. We previously demonstrated increased expression of programmed cell death 5 (PDCD5) in asthmatic patients and ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma. International guidelines (GINA 2019) have included the use of tiotropium bromide for chronic treatment of the most severe and frequently exacerbated asthma in patients ≥6 years old, who do not have good response to inhaled corticosteroids. Objective. To explore the role of tiotropium and its effect on PDCD5 level in a mouse model of chronic asthma. Methods. We divided 12 female mice into 2 groups: untreated asthma (n = 6) and tiotropium-treated asthma (n = 6). The impact of tiotropium was assessed by histology of lung tissue and morphometry. Pulmonary function was tested by using pressure sensors. The number of cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was detected. Levels of PDCD5, active caspase-3, and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors M2 (ChRM2) and M3 (ChRM3) were examined. Results. Tiotropium treatment significantly reduced airway inflammation and remodeling in asthmatic mice and intensified the lung function. PDCD5 level was reduced with tiotropium (p<0.05). Moreover, active caspase-3 level was decreased with tiotropium (p<0.001), and ChRM3 level was increased. Conclusions. Tiotropium treatment may alleviate the pathological changes with asthma by regulating apoptosis.
Drug-Loaded Microbubbles Combined with Ultrasound for Thrombolysis and Malignant Tumor Therapy
Authors: Gong Qian , Gao Xingxing , Liu Wenfang , Hong Tingting , Chen Chuanpin
Published: October 2019

Cardiac-cerebral thrombosis and malignant tumor endanger the safety of human life seriously. Traditional chemotherapy drugs have side effects which restrict their applications. Drug-loaded microbubbles can be destroyed by ultrasound irradiation at the focus position and be used for thrombolysis and tumor therapy. Compared with traditional drug treatment, the drug-loaded microbubbles can be excited by ultrasound and release drugs to lesion sites, increasing the local drug concentration and the exposure dose to nonfocal regions, thus reducing the cytotoxicity and side effects of drugs. This article reviews the applications of drug-loaded microbubbles combined with ultrasound for thrombolysis and tumor therapy. We focus on highlighting the advantages of using this new technique for disease treatment and concluding with recommendations for future efforts on the applications of this technology.
LTE Phone Number Catcher: A Practical Attack against Mobile Privacy
Authors: Yu Chuan , Chen Shuhui , Cai Zhiping
Published: October 2019

Phone number is a unique identity code of a mobile subscriber, which plays a more important role in the mobile social network life than another identification number IMSI. Unlike the IMSI, a mobile device never transmits its own phone number to the network side in the radio. However, the mobile network may send a user’s phone number to another mobile terminal when this user initiating a call or SMS service. Based on the above facts, with the help of an IMSI catcher and 2G man-in-the-middle attack, this paper implemented a practicable and effective phone number catcher prototype targeting at LTE mobile phones. We caught the LTE user’s phone number within a few seconds after the device camped on our rogue station. This paper intends to verify that mobile privacy is also quite vulnerable even in LTE networks as long as the legacy GSM still exists. Moreover, we demonstrated that anyone with basic programming skills and the knowledge of GSM/LTE specifications can easily build a phone number catcher using SDR tools and commercial off-the-shelf devices. Hence, we hope the operators worldwide can completely disable the GSM mobile networks in the areas covered by 3G and 4G networks as soon as possible to reduce the possibility of attacks on higher-generation cellular networks. Several potential countermeasures are also discussed to temporarily or permanently defend the attack.
Identification of Synthetic Food Colours in Selected Confectioneries and Beverages in Jaffna District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Dilrukshi P. G. T. , Munasinghe Helani , Silva A. Buddhika G. , De Silva P. G. S. M.
Published: October 2019

Colour is a key component to enhance the ultimate appetizing value and consumer acceptance towards foods and beverages. Synthetic food colours have been increasingly used than natural food colours by food manufacturers to attain certain properties such as low cost, improved appearance, high colour intensity, more colour stability, and uniformity. Varied foods and beverages available in the market may contain some nonpermitted synthetic colours and overuse of permitted synthetic colours. This may lead to severe health problems such as mutations, cancers, reduced haemoglobin concentrations, and allergic reactions. According to the Food Act, 2011 (No. 26 of 1980), Sri Lanka, only nine synthetic food colours are permitted and the colour concentration cannot exceed 100 ppm as a single component or in combination. This study aims to identify the synthetic food colours in confectioneries and beverages available in Jaffna district, Sri Lanka. Randomly collected 110 samples from eleven Medical Officers Of Health areas in Jaffna district were analyzed by using thin layer chromatography and UV-visible spectrophotometry. According to the results, 100% beverages and 85% confectioneries contained permitted synthetic food colours. Out of all, 7% of the confectioneries did not contain any synthetic food colour and 8% of the confectioneries contained nonpermitted colours which do not comply with any of the permitted synthetic food colours. Tartrazine (E102) (41%) was the most used synthetic food colour in both confectioneries and beverages. Moreover, 60% of the beverages violated the label requirement without including proper colour ingredients. The study concluded that there is a high tendency to use synthetic food colours in confectioneries and beverages and some confectioneries contain unidentified colours including a textile dye. Therefore, the implementation of regulations and awareness programs of food colours for consumers and food manufacturers are highly recommended.