bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF MONITORING METHODS IN SUSTAINABLE PAVEMENT SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Rusbintardjo Gatot , Jiun Chin Meei , Ibrahim Ahmad Nazrul Hakimi , Babashamsi Peyman , Md. Yusoff Nur Izzi , Hainin Mohd Rosli
Published: August 2019

Pavement management system (PMS) has been receiving increasing attention from both the government and private sectors in the attempt to ensure and keep the roads in good condition. The appropriate level of road maintenance activity is often contingent upon the type of pavement distress. Valid and reliable pavement data would lead to develop a PMS which is more suitable for agencies. Previous studies which attempted to identify modes of monitoring pavements were limited by constraints such as cost, time, and safety. This study was conducted to review some of the pavement monitoring modes introduced in previous studies. After completing a literature review, three mostly used modes, namely manual survey, smart sensor, and optical image processing, are selected for a comparative study to determine which mode is the most effective method in terms of cost, time, safety, accuracy, and sustainability. A data quality guideline was modified to produce a rating system for ranking the modes. In conclusion, the findings of this study could provide a guideline for the government and private sectors in determining the most effective pavement monitoring mode to be used in the sustainable PMS strategy.
EFFECT OF HUMIDITY ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF KENAF YARN FIBRE/POLYLACTIC ACID BIOCOMPOSITES
Authors: Syazalee Meor , Zulkifli Rozli
Published: August 2019

Humidity during the fabrication of natural fibre reinforced composites can harm their mechanical performance. This study examines the effect of humidity during the fabrication of unidirectional kenaf/polylactic acid (PLA) biocomposites on their dynamic and static mechanical properties. Kenaf fibres were conditioned at different relative humidity (RH) levels (40% RH, 60% RH and 80% RH) before being pressed with PLA to form biocomposites. Kenaf/PLA biocomposites were analysed using dynamic mechanical analysis, fracture toughness in mode II, tensile and flexural. Results indicated that the value of GIIC and storage modulus decreased when the relative humidity increased. Reduced tensile and flexural modulus were observed when kenaf was exposed to high relative humidity of 80% RH. However, the form of unidirectional kenaf affected the properties and reduced the drop value in the tensile modulus. The optimum relative humidity to produce kenaf/PLA biocomposites is 40% RH.
Differentiated Instruction: The Effect on Learner’s Achievement in Kindergarten
Authors: Kotob Mazen , Arnouss Doha
Published: August 2019

Identifying an effective instructional strategy to help diverse learners reach their full potentials is a goal for educators. Differentiated instruction has received much attention as a possible strategy. The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to examine the effect of incorporating differentiated instructional practices on students’ achievement in the kindergarten classes. In this action research, the researcher sought to answer the following research question: Does incorporating differentiated instructional practices leads to significant increase in students’ achievement in the kindergarten classes? Two kindergarten classes with 38 students and 2 teachers participated in the study; one was assigned to an experimental group who received differentiated instructional strategies for 3 weeks and the other one to the control group who received traditional teaching practices. Data was collected, analyzed and compared using SPSS and independent sample t-test. Results revealed that there was no significant difference in student achievement results between the differentiated and non-differentiated classrooms. Findings of this study highlight the necessity for further explorations on the effect of differentiated instructional practices on achievement results in the kindergarten classrooms.
Aeolian noise of a cylinder in the critical regime
Authors: Zhang C. , Sanjose M. , Moreau S.
Published: August 2019

The noise from the flow around a circular cylinder in the critical regime is investigated by combining a compressible wall-resolved large eddy simulation and a Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings analogy on solid and porous surfaces. This simulation is validated by comparing several flow parameters with previous experimental and numerical data in the same flow regime. Significantly reduced drag and increased vortex shedding Strouhal number (0.33) are observed. Two slightly asymmetric laminar separation bubbles (LSBs) on the cylinder surface at about 100° are shown to trigger turbulence through Kelvin-Helmholtz (KH) shear-layer instability. The latter contributes to a narrowband hump in the wall-pressure fluctuations with a tone at a Strouhal number of 27, which can be as intense as the dominant vortex shedding tone. The ratio of the corresponding Strouhal numbers is consistent with the proposed variation with the Reynolds number by Prasad and Williamson [(1997). J. Fluid Mech. 333, 375–402]. The dominant far-field noise source is still the vortex shedding dipolar tone radiating mostly at 90°. Yet, two additional broadband noise sources are evidenced in the wake, one at low frequencies caused by the wake oscillation and another one at high frequencies caused by the KH instability mostly directly toward the LSB locations.
Ultragentle manipulation of delicate structures using a soft robotic gripper
Authors: Sinatra Nina R. , Teeple Clark B. , Vogt Daniel M. , Parker Kevin Kit , Gruber David F. , Wood Robert J.
Published: August 2019

A nanofiber-reinforced soft silicone gripper facilitates gentle handling of fragile marine organisms.
An actuatable soft reservoir modulates host foreign body response
Authors: Dolan E. B. , Varela C. E. , Mendez K. , Whyte W. , Levey R. E. , Robinson S. T. , Maye E. , O’Dwyer J. , Beatty R. , Rothman A. , Fan Y. , Hochstein J. , Rothenbucher S. E. , Wylie R. , Starr J. R. , Monaghan M. , Dockery P. , Duffy G. P. , Roche E. T.
Published: August 2019

The foreign body response is modulated by a dynamic soft reservoir by altering the biomechanics of the peri-implant tissue.
SMAC mimetics promote NIK-dependent inhibition of CD4
+
T
H
17 cell differentiation
Authors: Rizk John , Kaplinsky Joseph , Agerholm Rasmus , Kadekar Darshana , Ivars Fredrik , Agace William W. , Wong W. Wei-Lynn , Szucs Matthew J. , Myers Samuel A. , Carr Steven A. , Waisman Ari , Bekiaris Vasileios
Published: August 2019

By promoting noncanonical NF-κB signaling, SMAC mimetics can reprogram CD4
+
T helper cell differentiation and curb autoimmunity.
An Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) Ab4 Open Reading Frame 2 Deletion Mutant Provides Immunity and Protection from EHV-1 Infection and Disease
Authors: Schnabel Christiane L. , Babasyan Susanna , Rollins Alicia , Freer Heather , Wimer Christine L. , Perkins Gillian A. , Raza Fahad , Osterrieder Nikolaus , Wagner Bettina
Published: August 2019

Nasal equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) shedding is essential for virus transmission during outbreaks. Cell-associated viremia is a prerequisite for the most severe disease outcomes, abortion and equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). Thus, protection from viremia is considered essential for preventing EHM. Ab4ΔORF2 vaccination prevented EHV-1 challenge virus replication in the upper respiratory tract in fully protected horses. Consequently, these neither shed virus nor developed cell-associated viremia. Protection from virus shedding and viremia during challenge infection in combination with reduced virulence at the time of vaccination emphasizes ORF2 deletion as a promising modification for generating an improved EHV-1 vaccine. During this challenge infection, full protection was linked to preexisting local and systemic EHV-1-specific antibodies combined with rapidly increasing intranasal IgG4/7 antibodies and lack of nasal type I interferon and chemokine induction. These host immune parameters may constitute markers of protection against EHV-1 and be utilized as indicators for improved vaccine development and informed vaccination strategies.
Draft Genome Sequences of Four Lactococcus lactis Strains Isolated from Diverse Niches, Including Dairy Products, Grass, and Green Peas
Authors: Roman Naranjo Desirée , Callanan Michael , McAuliffe Olivia
Published: August 2019

Lactococcus lactis
has been used for millennia as a starter organism in the production of many fermented dairy products. This announcement includes the draft genome sequences of four strains of
Lactococcus lactis
, two of dairy origin and two from nondairy sources.
Quantitatively Partitioning Microbial Genomic Traits among Taxonomic Ranks across the Microbial Tree of Life
Authors: Royalty Taylor M. , Steen Andrew D.
Published: August 2019

Recently, there has been great progress in defining a complete taxonomy of bacteria and archaea, which has been enabled by improvements in DNA sequencing technology and new bioinformatic techniques. A new, algorithmically defined microbial tree of life describes those linkages, relying solely on genetic data, which raises the issue of how microbial traits relate to taxonomy. Here, we adopted cluster of orthologous group functional categories as a scheme to describe the genomic contents of microbes, a method that can be applied to any microbial lineage for which genomes are available. This simple approach allows quantitative comparisons between microbial genomes with different gene compositions from across the microbial tree of life. Our observations demonstrate statistically significant patterns in cluster of orthologous group functional categories at taxonomic levels that span the range from domain to genus.
Integrated Meta-omics Reveals a Fungus-Associated Bacteriome and Distinct Functional Pathways in Clostridioides difficile Infection
Authors: Stewart David B. , Wright Justin R. , Fowler Maria , McLimans Christopher J. , Tokarev Vasily , Amaniera Isabella , Baker Owen , Wong Hoi-Tong , Brabec Jeff , Drucker Rebecca , Lamendella Regina
Published: August 2019

Our data suggest a potential role for fungi in the most common nosocomial bacterial infection in the United States, introducing the concept of a transkingdom interaction between bacteria and fungi in this disease. We also provide the first direct measure of microbial community function in
Clostridioides difficile
infection using patient-derived tissue samples, revealing antibiotic-independent mechanisms by which
C. difficile
infection may resist a return to a healthy gut microbiome.
Evaluation of reliability of self-collected vaginal swabs over physician-collected samples for diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis and trichomoniasis, in a resource-limited setting: a cross-sectional study in India
Authors: Khan Zarine , Bhargava Aradhana , Mittal Pratima , Bharti Rekha , Puri Poonam , Khunger Niti , Bala Manju
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Self-collected vaginal swabs can facilitate diagnosis of vaginal discharge (VD) in resource-limited settings, provided reliability of the method is established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the concordance between self-collected and physician-collected vaginal swabs for aetiological diagnosis of VD and to determine the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and trichomonas vaginitis (TV).

Methods

A total of 550 females (median age: 32 years; range: 18–45 years) attending two sexually transmitted infection/reproductive tract infection (STI/RTI) clinics with VD from January 2015 to May 2016 were included in the study after obtaining written informed consent. Swabs were self-collected by patients after instructions and subsequently by a physician under speculum examination. Samples were processed for standard bedside tests, Gram staining, wet mount and culture (gold standard) according to the national guidelines. Concordance between the two methods was determined by the Cohen’s kappa value.

Results

BV, VVC and TV were diagnosed in 79 (14.4%), 144 (26.2%) and 3 (0.5%) patients, respectively. VVC coexisted with BV in 58 (10.5%) patients. There was no coinfection of TV with BV or VVC.Candida albicanswas isolated in 84 (58.3%) VVC cases. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of self-collected swabs for diagnosing BV was 91.1%, 100%, 100% and 98.5%, respectively, while for theC. albicansVVC and TV, sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV all were 100% as compared with physician-collected swabs. Highly concordant results were obtained between two methods by the Kappa values of 0.95 (BV), 0.99 (VVC) and 1.0 (TV).

Conclusion

The comparative performance of self-collected and physician-collected vaginal swabs establishes self-collection of samples for BV, VVC and TV as a viable alternative tool in the management of STIs/RTIs, especially in peripheral and resource-constrained settings. This would be effective in implementing the diagnostic approaches for STIs/RTIs in community-based surveillance studies at national or regional level and therefore strengthening the National STI/RTI Control Programme.
Association between diabetes-specific health literacy and health-related quality of life among elderly individuals with pre-diabetes in rural Hunan Province, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hu Zhao , Qin Lulu , Xu Huilan
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To examine the association between diabetes-specific health literacy (DSHL) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among elderly individuals with pre-diabetes in rural China.

Design, setting and participants

This cross-sectional study included 434 elderly individuals with pre-diabetes from 42 villages in rural China.

Main outcome measures

HRQoL was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey. DSHL was measured by a validated questionnaire in China. Differences in HRQoL between groups with and without high DSHL were tested by multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA).

Results

The prevalence of pre-diabetes was 21.5%. The average age of participants (n=434) was 69.4±6.4 years, and 58.5% were female. Bivariate analysis showed that those with high DSHL had increases of 2.9 points in the physical health component score and 4.4 points in the mental health component score (MCS) compared with those without. After adjustment for potential confounders, a significant MANCOVA model (Wilks’ λ=0.974, F=5.63, p=0.004) indicated that individuals with pre-diabetes who had high DSHL reported higher MCS (Mdiff=3.5, 95% CI 1.8 to 6.3, effect size=0.38). This remained significant across subscales: general health (p=0.028), vitality (p=0.014), social functioning (p=0.017) and mental health (p=0.005).

Conclusions

Low DSHL was associated with worsening HRQoL among elderly individuals with pre-diabetes in rural China, particularly in the mental health components.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR-IOR-15007033.
Relative influence of intellectual disabilities and autism on mental and general health in Scotland: a cross-sectional study of a whole country of 5.3 million children and adults
Authors: Kinnear Deborah , Rydzewska Ewelina , Dunn Kirsty , Hughes-McCormack Laura Anne , Melville Craig , Henderson Angela , Cooper Sally-Ann
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To determine the relative extent that autism and intellectual disabilities are independently associated with poor mental and general health, in children and adults.

Design

Cross-sectional study. For Scotland’s population, logistic regressions investigated odds of intellectual disabilities and autism predicting mental health conditions, and poor general health, adjusted for age and gender.

Participants

1 548 819 children/youth aged 0-24 years, and 3 746 584 adults aged more than 25 years, of whom 9396/1 548 819 children/youth had intellectual disabilities (0.6%), 25 063/1 548 819 children/youth had autism (1.6%); and 16 953/3 746 584 adults had intellectual disabilities (0.5%), 6649/3 746 584 adults had autism (0.2%). These figures are based on self-report.

Main outcome measures

Self-reported general health status and mental health.

Results

In children/youth, intellectual disabilities (OR 7.04, 95% CI 6.30 to 7.87) and autism (OR 25.08, 95% CI 23.08 to 27.32) both independently predicted mental health conditions. In adults, intellectual disabilities (OR 3.50, 95% CI 3.20 to 3.84) and autism (OR 5.30, 95% CI 4.80 to 5.85) both independently predicted mental health conditions. In children/youth, intellectual disabilities (OR 18.34, 95% CI 17.17 to 19.58) and autism (OR 8.40, 95% CI 8.02 to 8.80) both independently predicted poor general health. In adults, intellectual disabilities (OR 7.54, 95% CI 7.02 to 8.10) and autism (OR 4.46, 95% CI 4.06 to 4.89) both independently predicted poor general health.

Conclusions

Both intellectual disabilities and autism independently predict poor health, intellectual disabilities more so for general health and autism more so for mental health. Intellectual disabilities and autism are not uncommon, and due to their associated poor health, sufficient services/supports are needed. This is not just due to coexistence of these conditions or just to having intellectual disabilities, as the population with autism is independently associated with substantial health inequalities compared with the general population, across the entire life course.
Trajectories of future sickness absence and disability pension days among individuals with a new sickness absence spell due to osteoarthritis diagnosis ≥21 days: a prospective cohort study with 13-month follow-up
Authors: Farrants Kristin , Friberg Emilie , Sjölund Sara , Alexanderson Kristina
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of musculoskeletal diagnoses also among working-age populations, and often leads to long-term sickness absence (SA) spells or even disability pension (DP).

The aim

was to identify future trajectories of days of SA and/or DP among people with a new SA spell due to osteoarthritis that became ≥21 long, and to investigate sociodemographic and morbidity characteristics of individuals in identified trajectories.

Methods

This is a prospective population-based cohort study using data from several Swedish registers. We studied future SA/DP among all 4894 individuals aged 16–64 years who, during the first 6 months of 2010, had an incident SA spell due to osteoarthritis (ICD-10 codes M15-19) ≥21 days. Using group-based trajectory modelling, we identified trajectories of mean SA/DP net days/month and 95% CIs for the 13 months from the 21st day of the index SA spell. Sociodemographic and morbidity characteristics were compared by χ2tests and multinomial logistic regression.

Results

We identified five trajectories of SA/DP days: ‘fast decrease’ (36% of the cohort), ‘medium fast decrease’ (29%), ‘slow decrease’ (15%), ‘fluctuating’ (12%) and ‘late decrease’ (8%). Individuals in the two trajectories who still had SA/DP days at end of follow-up (late decrease and fluctuating) were more likely to be older, born outside the EU and have indicators of more severe morbidity than those in the other trajectories.

Conclusion

Five trajectories of future SA/DP days were identified; 80% of the cohort belonged to trajectories with no SA/DP by the end of follow-up. Identifying trajectories of future SA/DP provides new insights regarding the developments of SA/DP over time among people on SA due to osteoarthritis; not only days in the initial SA spell but also in new spells during follow-up need to be included for a better understanding.
Years of life lost due to diseases of the digestive system in Poland according to socioeconomic factors: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Paciej-Gołębiowska Paulina , Pikala Małgorzata , Maniecka-Bryła Irena
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To analyse years of life lost (YLLs) due to digestive diseases in Poland according to: marital status, education, working status and place of residence.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Setting

The study was based on a dataset containing information from death certificates of Poles who died in 2002 and in 2011.

Participants

The analysis covered records with codes K00–K93 according to the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision.

Outcome measures

YLL values were calculated using the Standard Expected Years of Life Lost measure. For each socioeconomic variable, the rate ratio (RR) was calculated as the quotient of YLLs in the less privileged group to the more privileged group.

Results

Among the categories of marital status, the smallest YLL values (per 10 000) were recorded among singles (men: 100.63 years in 2002, 121.10 years in 2011; women: 26.99, 33.33, respectively), and the most among divorced men (657.87, 689.32) and widowed women (173.97, 169.46). YLL analysis according to education level revealed the lowest values in people with higher education (men: 54.20, 57.66; women: 17.31, 18.31) and the highest in people with lower than secondary education (men: 178.85, 198.32; women: 104.95, 125.76). Being economically active was associated with a smaller YLL score (men: 39.93, 59.51; women: 10.31, 14.96) than being inactive (men: 340.54, 219.93; women: 126.86, 96.80). Urban residents had higher YLL score (men: 159.46, 174.18, women: 73.03, 78.12) than rural ones (men: 126.83, 137.11, women: 57.32, 57.56).

In both sexes, RR according to education level and place of residence increased, and those according to marital status and working status decreased with time.

Conclusions

Activities aimed at reducing health inequalities in terms of YLL due to digestive diseases should be primarily addressed to inhabitants with lower than secondary education, divorced and widowed people, urban residents and those who are economically inactive.
Exposure to heavy physical work from early to later adulthood and primary healthcare visits due to musculoskeletal diseases in midlife: a register linked study
Authors: Halonen Jaana I , Shiri Rahman , Mänty Minna , Sumanen Hilla , Solovieva Svetlana , Viikari-Juntura Eira , Kähönen Mika , Lehtimäki Terho , Raitakari Olli T , Lallukka Tea
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To examine whether exposure to heavy physical work from early to later adulthood is associated with primary healthcare visits due to cause-specific musculoskeletal diseases in midlife.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Nationally representative Young Finns Study cohort, Finland.

Participants

1056 participants of the Young Finns Study cohort.

Exposure measure

Physical work exposure was surveyed in early (18–24 years old, 1986 or 1989) and later adulthood (2007 and 2011), and it was categorised as: ‘no exposure’, ‘early exposure only’, ‘later exposure only’ and ‘early and later exposure’.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Visits due to any musculoskeletal disease and separately due to spine disorders, and upper extremity disorders were followed up from national primary healthcare register from the date of the third survey in 2011 until 2014.

Results

Prevalence of any musculoskeletal disease during the follow-up was 20%, that for spine disorders 10% and that for upper extremity disorders 5%. Those with physically heavy work in early adulthood only had an increased risk of any musculoskeletal disease (risk ratio (RR) 1.55, 95% CI 1.05 to 2.28) after adjustment for age, sex, smoking, body mass index, physical activity and parental occupational class. Later exposure only was associated with visits due to any musculoskeletal disease (RR 1.46, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.12) and spine disorders (RR 2.40, 95% CI 1.41 to 4.06). Early and later exposure was associated with all three outcomes: RR 1.99 (95% CI 1.44 to 2.77) for any musculoskeletal disease, RR 2.43 (95% CI 1.42 to 4.14) for spine disorders and RR 3.97 (95% CI 1.86 to 8.46) for upper extremity disorders.

Conclusions

To reduce burden of musculoskeletal diseases, preventive actions to reduce exposure to or mitigate the consequences of physically heavy work throughout the work career are needed.
Developing an “intelligent” high-fidelity GIS-based travel demand model framework for improved network-wide traffic estimation
Authors: Mustafa Riad , Christie James , Hildebrand Eric
Published: August 2019

The four-step travel demand model (FSTDM) is based on coarse rural traffic analysis zones (TAZs) which tends to exaggerate the intrazonal trips resulting in biased and unbalanced trip distribution over the roadway network with high estimation errors. These limitations have necessitated developing a geographic information systems (GIS)-based high-fidelity travel demand model framework (HFTDMF) capable of achieving network-wide traffic volume estimation with improved model accuracy. This requires using an all functional class roadway network and enhancing the census-based coarse TAZ structure with finer-grained spatial resolution TAZs by integrating the travel demand modeling software platform, remotely-sensed images, parcel-based digital property maps, the AZTool aggregation algorithm, and areal interpolation technique. Preliminary results from the Greater Fredericton Area (GFA) showed that increasing the GFA spatial resolution from the coarsest TAZ structure at census tract (CT) level (27 CT TAZs) to the finest TAZ structure at 4252 “fine” TAZs resulted in an improvement to modeling accuracy of R2, by 0.4092 (from 0.2490 to 0.6582) and an improvement in traffic assignment coverage by 46 percentage points (from 29% to 75%).
Inheritance of coloured stripes on the flower standard and their association with seed coat colour in common bean
Authors: Viteri Diego M. , Linares Angela M.
Published: August 2019

The genetics of the presence of coloured stripes on the flower standard in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) was studied. One dominant gene was involved in the presence of purple stripes in PR1144-5/‘Badillo’ and 92BG-7/‘Verano’ populations. Furthermore, flowers without purple stripes co-segregated with light red and white seeds in both populations, respectively, and might be used as a morphological marker to select plants with these seed coat colours. This practice should avoid expenses in the field and (or) greenhouse to conserve plants until harvesting.
Generation of regression models and multi-response optimization of friction stir welding technique parameters during the fabrication of AZ80A Mg alloy joints
Authors: Sevvel P. , Satheesh C. , Senthil Kumar R.
Published: August 2019

Conventional methodologies employed for the selection of weld process parameters for fabricating sound quality weldments have been found to consume more time and are often unreliable. Therefore, in this paper, an analysis was made to develop a quadratic regression model and empirical relationships by employing response surface methodology between various input parameters of the friction stir welding (FSW) technique including rotational speed of tool, axial force, and traversing speed of tool and five responses of output including percentage of elongation, yield strength, tensile strength, grain size, and microhardness. The discrepancies between the anticipated values and the genuine experimental outcomes are within ±1%, which reveals that the established mathematical quadratic regression model was a good fit to the actual experimental results. The experimental analysis also determined the elite combination of input parameters of the FSW technique for the output parameters.
First-principles study of BiFeO3and BaTiO3in tetragonal structure
Authors: Ali Akbar , Khan Imad , Ali Zahid , Khan Fawad , Ahmad Iftikhar
Published: August 2019

Structural, electronic, magnetic and mechanical properties of the perovskites BiFeO3(BFO) and BaTiO3(BTO) are investigated using density functional theory (DFT). Structural and mechanical parameters are calculated using generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and the results consistent with the available literature. The stable magnetic phases are achieved by optimizing total energies versus volumes of the cells in different magnetic configurations such as nonmagnetic (NM), ferromagnetic (FM) and antiferromagnetic (AFM). BTO is found to be NM while BFO favors G-type AFM (G-AFM) phase. The electronic properties are investigated using GGA, GGA with Hubbard potential (GGA[Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text]U) and modified Becke–Johnson (GGA-mBJ) exchange–correlation functionals. BFO is found to be a direct bandgap semiconductor having gap energy value 3.0 eV whereas BTO is an indirect semiconductor with bandgap energy 2.9 eV. Spin–orbit coupling effect is dominant in BFO due to the larger size of A-site cation. The electrical polarization shows that both the compounds are ferroelectric materials with significant spontaneous polarization of 144.1 [Formula: see text]C/cm2and 27.9 [Formula: see text]C/cm2for BFO and BTO respectively.
Application of Nature Inspired Algorithms to Optimize Multi-objective Two-Dimensional Rectangle Packing Problem
Authors: Virk Amandeep Kaur , Singh Kawaljeet
Published: August 2019

This paper considers two-dimensional non-guillotine rectangular bin packing problem with multiple objectives in which small rectangular parts are to be arranged optimally on a large rectangular sheet. The optimization of rectangular parts is attained with respect to three objectives involving maximization of (1) utilization factor, minimization of (2) due dates of rectangles and (3) number of cuts. Three nature based metaheuristic algorithms — Cuckoo Search, Bat Algorithm and Flower Pollination Algorithm — have been used to solve the multi-objective packing problem. The purpose of this work is to consider multiple industrial objectives for improving the overall production process and to explore the potential of the recent metaheuristic techniques. Benchmark test data compare the performance of recent approaches with the popular approaches and also of the different objectives used. Different performance metrics analyze the behavior/performance of the proposed technique. Experimental results obtained in this work prove the effectiveness of the recent metaheuristic techniques used. Also, it was observed that considering multiple and independent factors as objectives for the production process does not degrade the overall performance and they do not necessarily conflict with each other.
Persistent Memory Programming on Conventional Hardware
Authors: Kelly Terence
Published: August 2019

Driven by the advent of byte-addressable non-volatile memory, the persistent memory style of programming will gain traction among developers, taking its rightful place alongside existing paradigms for managing persistent application state. Until NVM becomes available on all computers, developers can use the techniques presented in this article to enjoy the benefits of persistent memory programming on conventional hardware.
Effect of different bariatric surgeries on dietary protein bioavailability in rats
Authors: Tessier Romain , Ribeiro-Parenti Lara , Bruneau Ouafa , Khodorova Nadezda , Cavin Jean-Baptiste , Bado André , Azzout-Marniche Dalila , Calvez Juliane , Le Gall Maude , Gaudichon Claire
Published: August 2019

Bariatric surgery may induce protein malabsorption, although data are scarce. This study aims at evaluating dietary protein bioavailability after different bariatric surgeries in rats. Diet-induced obese Wistar rats were operated for vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The control group was composed of pair-fed, sham-operated rats (Sham). Two weeks after surgery, rats were fed a 15N protein meal. Protein bioavailability was assessed by determination of 15N recovery in the gastrointestinal tract and organs 6 h after the meal. Fractional protein synthesis rate (FSR) was assessed using a flooding dose of 13C valine. Weight loss was the highest in RYGB rats and the lowest in Sham rats. Surprisingly, RYGB (95.6 ± 0.7%) improved protein digestibility ( P = 0.045) compared with Sham (93.5 ± 0.5%) and VSG (93.8 ± 0.6%). In contrast, 15N retained in the liver ( P = 0.001) and plasma protein ( P = 0.037) was lower than in Sham, with a similar trend in muscle ( P = 0.052). FSR was little altered by bariatric surgery, except for a decrease in the kidney of RYGB ( P = 0.02). The 15N distribution along the small intestinal tissue suggests that dietary nitrogen was considerably retained in the remodeled mucosa of RYGB compared with Sham. This study revealed that in contrast to VSG, RYGB slightly improved protein digestibility but altered peripheral protein bioavailability. This effect may be ascribed to a higher uptake of dietary amino acids by the remodeled intestine.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using a sensitive 15N meal test, we found that gastric bypass slightly improved protein digestibility compared with sleeve gastrectomy or control but, in contrast, lowered protein retention in the liver and muscles. This paradox can be due to a higher uptake of dietary nitrogen by the intestinal mucosa that was hypertrophied. This study provides new insight on the digestive and metabolic fate of dietary protein in different models of bariatric surgery in rats.
Threshold for Chaos of a Duffing Oscillator with Fractional‐Order Derivative
Authors: Xing Wuce , Chen Enli , Chang Yujian , Wang Meiqi
Published: August 2019

In this paper, the necessary condition for the chaotic motion of a Duffing oscillator with the fractional‐order derivative under harmonic excitation is investigated. The necessary condition for the chaos in the sense of Smale horseshoes is established based on the Melnikov method, and then the chaotic threshold curve is obtained. The largest Lyapunov exponents are provided, and some other typical numerical simulation results, including the time histories, frequency spectrograms, phase portraits, and Poincare maps, are presented and compared. From the analysis of the numerical simulation results, it could be found that, near the chaotic threshold curve, the system generates chaos via the period‐doubling bifurcation, from single periodic motion to period‐2 motion and period‐4 motion to chaotic motion. The effects of fractional‐order parameters, the stiffness coefficient, and the damping coefficient on the threshold value of the chaotic motion are analytically discussed. The results show that the coefficient of the fractional‐order derivative has great effect on the threshold value of the chaotic motion, while the order of the fractional‐order derivative has less. The analysis results reveal some new phenomena, and it could be useful for designing or controlling dynamic systems with the fractional‐order derivative.
Effect of Additives on the Rheological and Mechanical Properties of Microfine-Cement-Based Grout
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Qiao Weiguo , Li Yanzhi , Xi Kai , Chen Pengcheng
Published: August 2019

Enhancement of the fluidity and mechanical performance of grouting materials has proven to be an effective method of seepage prevention in geotechnical engineering. In this research, a microfine-cement-based grout mixed with microfine fly ash (MFA), nano-CaCO3 (NC), and superplasticizer (SP) was designed to improve the rheological and mechanical properties of grouting materials, and the particle size distribution, fluidity, spreading ability, bleed capacity, setting time, and mechanical properties were studied. A water/solid (W/S) ratio of 1.2 was selected, and the contents of MFA, NC, and SP by mass of microfine cement (MC) were 0–40%, 0–2.0%, and 1.5%, respectively. The results showed that MFA and 1.5% SP improved the fluidity and spreading ability of fresh grouts, while prolonging the setting time. The addition of NC can increase the yield stress and plastic viscosity and decrease the fluidity and spreading ability; nevertheless, it obviously enhances the stability and shortens the setting time of grouts. The addition of MFA and 1.5% SP reduced the compressive strength of hardened grouts; however, the addition of NC improved the mechanical properties.
A Sound Source Localization Device Based on Rectangular Pyramid Structure for Mobile Robot
Authors: Chen Guoliang , Xu Yang
Published: August 2019

A sound source localization device based on a multimicrophone array with the rectangular pyramid structure is proposed for mobile robot in some indoor applications. Firstly, a time delay estimation method based on the cross-power spectral phase algorithm and a fast search strategy of peak value based on the geometric distribution of microphones are developed to estimate the sound propagation delay differences between two microphones. Moreover, a rejection strategy is presented to evaluate the correctness of the delay difference values. And then, the device’s geometric equations based on the time-space mapping relationship are established to calculate the position of the sound source. For fast solving the equations, the multimicrophone array space is divided into several subspaces to narrow the solution range, and Newton iteration algorithm is introduced to solve the equations, while its solution is evaluated by an evaluation mechanism based on coordinate thresholds. Finally, some experiments are carried out to verify the performance of the device, of which the results show that the device can achieve sound source localization with a high accuracy.
Angular and CP-Violation Analyses of B-→D⁎+l-ν-l Decays at Hadron Collider Experiments
Authors: Marangotto Daniele
Published: August 2019

The B-→D⁎+l-ν-l branching fractions ratio between muon and tau lepton decay modes R(D⁎) has shown intriguing discrepancies between the Standard Model prediction and measurements performed at BaBar, Belle, and LHCb experiments, a possible sign of beyond the Standard Model physics. Theoretical studies show how observables related to the B-→D⁎+l-ν-l differential decay distribution can be used to further constrain New Physics contributions, but their experimental measurements are lacking to date. This article proposes the measurement of B-→D⁎+l-ν-l angular and CP-violating observables at hadron collider experiments, by exploiting approximate reconstruction algorithms using information from detectable final-state particles only. The resolution on the phase space variables is studied using B-→D⁎+l-ν-l decays simulated in a forward detector geometry like LHCb. A method to correct the observable values for the reconstruction inaccuracies based on detector simulation is successfully tested on simulated data and the decrease in precision with respect to a perfect reconstruction is evaluated. The D⁎+ longitudinal polarization fraction and the AT(2)CP-violating observable can be measured losing a factor of 2 and 5 in precision, respectively. The extraction of angular distributions from the template fit selecting B-→D⁎+l-ν-l decays and associated systematic uncertainties are also discussed.
Pueraria lobata Extract Protects Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Death and Membrane Permeability
Authors: Kang Nu Ri , Pyun Bo-Jeong , Jung Dong Ho , Lee Ik Soo , Kim Chan-Sik , Kim Young Sook , Kim Jin Sook
Published: August 2019

Background. Pueraria lobata is used in traditional Asian medicine to treat cardiovascular diseases, diarrhea, diabetes mellitus, and diabetic complications such as diabetic retinopathy. Oxidative stress in retinal pigment epithelial cells is implicated in the pathogenesis of retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Here, we evaluated whether the P. lobata extract can prevent cell death and decrease membrane permeability in oxidative stress-induced human retinal pigment epithelial cells. Methods. The effects of P. lobata extract on hydrogen peroxide- (H2O2-) induced oxidative stress were investigated using 2′,7′–dichlorofluorescin diacetate, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry in human retinal pigment epithelial cells. The effects of puerarin, daidzein, and daidzin isolated from P. lobata extract were also studied by determining cell death, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation. Results. Our results showed that the P. lobata extract inhibited ROS generation, suppressed the disruption of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), and reduced membrane permeability in H2O2-induced human retinal pigment epithelial cells. Additionally, the P. lobata extract prevented the inhibition of p38 MAPK and JNK phosphorylation. Conclusion. Our findings suggest that the P. lobata extract has the potential to prevent AMD development by inhibiting the mechanism underlying oxidative stress-mediated ocular disorders.
Effects of Stator Stiffness, Gap Size, Unbalance, and Shaft’s Asymmetry on the Steady‐State Response and Stability Range of an Asymmetric Rotor with Rub‐Impact
Authors: Zheng Zhaoli , Xie Yonghui , Zhang Di , Ye Xiaolong
Published: August 2019

The asymmetric rotor and the rub‐impact behavior are important sources of instability and may cause severe vibrations. However, the dynamics of the rotor‐bearing system simultaneously considering the two factors has not gained sufficient attention in available investigations. In this paper, the steady‐state response and stability of an asymmetric rotor with rub‐impact were evaluated. The asymmetric rotor was modeled by beam elements with asymmetric cross section, and the nonlinear equations of motion were established in the rotating frame. The multiharmonic balance (MHB) method was employed to obtain the linearized form of the nonlinear equations of motion. Either the asymmetry of rotor or rub‐impact can result in instability and make the problem difficult to solve. Thus, the arc‐length method was utilized to trace the branch of the solutions. In order to improve the calculation speed and accurately predict the solution, the alternating frequency/time domain (AFT) was adopted to calculate the iteration of the arc‐length method. Based on the proposed method, the effects of stator stiffness, gap size, unbalance, and asymmetric in shaft on the steady‐state response and stability were obtained.
Microstructural Characterization and Mechanical Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Subjected to Dynamic Plastic Deformation Achieved by Multipass Hammer Forging with Different Forging Temperatures
Authors: Fang Xiurong , Wu Jiang , Ou Xue , Yang Fuqiang
Published: August 2019

Dynamic plastic deformation (DPD) achieved by multipass hammer forging is one of the most important metal forming operations to create the excellent materials properties. By using the integrated approaches of optical microscope and scanning electron microscope, the forging temperature effects on the multipass hammer forging process and the forged properties of Ti-6Al-4V alloy were evaluated and the forging samples were controlled with a total height reduction of 50% by multipass strikes from 925°C to 1025°C. The results indicate that the forging temperature has a significant effect on morphology and the volume fraction of primary α phase, and the microstructural homogeneity is enhanced after multipass hammer forging. The alloy slip possibility and strain rates could be improved by multipass strikes, but the marginal efficiency decreases with the increased forging temperature. Besides, a forging process with an initial forging temperature a bit above β transformation and finishing the forging a little below the β transformation is suggested to balance the forging deformation resistance and forged mechanical properties.
Analytically Explicit Results for the Distribution of the Number of Customers Served during a Busy Period for Special Cases of the M/G/1 Queue
Authors: Chaudhry M. L. , Goswami Veena
Published: August 2019

This paper presents analytically explicit results for the distribution of the number of customers served during a busy period for special cases of the M/G/1 queues when initiated with m customers. The functional equation for the Laplace transform of the number of customers served during a busy period is widely known, but several researchers state that, in general, it is not easy to invert it except for some simple cases such as M/M/1 and M/D/1 queues. Using the Lagrange inversion theorem, we give an elegant solution to this equation. We obtain the distribution of the number of customers served during a busy period for various service-time distributions such as exponential, deterministic, Erlang-k, gamma, chi-square, inverse Gaussian, generalized Erlang, matrix exponential, hyperexponential, uniform, Coxian, phase-type, Markov-modulated Poisson process, and interrupted Poisson process. Further, we also provide computational results using our method. The derivations are very fast and robust due to the lucidity of the expressions.
Therapeutic Duration and Extent Affect the Effect of Moxibustion on Depression-Like Behaviour in Rats via Regulating the Brain Tryptophan Transport and Metabolism
Authors: Li Hao , Sang Lan , Xia Xing , Zhao Ruirui , Wang Mingyue , Hou Xiaofei , Xiong Jiawei , Cao Tiemin , Liu Xiaoquan , Zhang Jianbin
Published: August 2019

Moxibustion has been widely accepted as an alternative therapy for major depressive disease (MDD). However, the efficacy of moxibustion treatment on MDD is highly variable because of its irregular operation. This study was designed to investigate how therapeutic duration and extent influence the anti-depression effect of moxibustion and the underlying mechanism involved. Rats with lipopolysaccharide-induced depression-like behavior were treated by moxibustion treatment. The anti-depression effect was determined by forced swimming test and open field test. Tryptophan (Trp) transport and its metabolism to serotonin (5-HT) and kynurenine (Kyn) were evaluated to explore the anti-depression mechanism. The results showed that moxibustion treatment could alleviate the depression-like behavior in rats. Trp transport and 5-HT generation were significantly increased, and the Trp-Kyn pathway was moderately inhibited by moxibustion. Prolonged therapy could be beneficial to the anti-depression effect by promoting the brain uptake of Trp and shifting the Trp metabolism to 5-HT. An enhanced therapeutic extent could increase 5-HT generation. In conclusion, this study determined that the anti-depression effect of moxibustion involves improved Trp transport and metabolism. The therapeutic duration benefits antidepressant effects, but the complex influence of the therapeutic extent on moxibustion efficacy requires further studies.
Characterization and Evaluation of a Folic Acid Receptor-Targeted Norcantharidin/Tetrandrine Dual-Drug Loaded Delivery System
Authors: Xiong Youxiang , Tang Hongxia , Liu Wenhong , Zhang Tingting , Ma Rui , Mu Chaofeng , Zhu Zhihong , Li Fanzhu
Published: August 2019

The objective of this study was to construct norcantharidin (NCTD)/tetrandrine (Tet) dual-drug loaded lipid nanoparticles (FA-LP@Tet/(MSNs@NCTD)) based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) for controlling drug release and lowering their systemic toxicity. In this study, MSNs were prepared and used for encapsulating anticancer drug NCTD; then MSNs@NCTD and Tet were loaded into liposomes to construct dual-drug loaded lipid nanoparticles with folic acid (FA) as the targeting moiety. The prepared dual-drug loaded lipid nanoparticles with a uniform particle size distribution of 153.17±4.17 nm (PDI 0.191±0.017, zeta potential -20.93±1.75 mV), had a visible core-shell structure under transmission electron microscopy; the encapsulation efficiency of NCTD and Tet was 86.62% and 79.19%, respectively, with obvious in vitro sustained release characteristics. The cellular uptake results suggested that FA modification could enhance intracellular distribution of FA-LP@Tet/(MSNs@NCTD). Furthermore, cell apoptosis assays showed FA-LP@Tet/(MSNs@NCTD) had better antitumor ability via reversing multidrug resistance. Therefore, FA-LP@Tet/(MSNs@NCTD) was a promising drug delivery system for combination cancer therapy.