bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Edge-Based Smoothed MITC3 (ES-MITC3) Shell Finite Element in Laminated Composite Shell Structures Analysis
Authors: Pham Quoc-Hoa , Tran The-Van , Pham Tien-Dat , Phan Duc-Huynh
Published: December 2017

This paper proposes an improvement of the MITC3 shell finite element to analyze of laminated composite shell structures. In order to enhance the accuracy and convergence of MITC3 element, an edge-based smoothed finite element method (ES-FEM) is applied to the derivation of the membrane, bending and shear stiffness terms of the MITC3 element, named ES-MICT3. In the ES-FEM, the smoothed strain is calculated in the domain that constructed by two adjacent MITC3 triangular elements sharing an edge. On a curved geometry of shell models, two adjacent MITC3 triangular elements may not be placed on the same plane. In this case, the edge-based smoothed strain can be performed on the virtual plane based on strain transformation matrices between the global coordinate and this virtual coordinate. Furthermore, a simple modification coefficient is chosen to be [Formula: see text] times the maximum diagonal value of the element stiffness matrix at the zero drilling degree of freedom to avoid the drill rotation locking when all elements meeting at a node are coplanar. The numerical examples demonstrated that the proposed method achieves the high accuracy in comparison to others existing elements in the literature.
Towards real-time pilot-in-the-loop CFD simulations of helicopter/ship dynamic interface
Authors: Oruc Ilker , Horn Joseph F. , Shipman Jeremy , Polsky Susan
Published: December 2017

This study presents the development of computationally efficient coupling of Navier–Stokes Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) with a helicopter flight dynamics model with the ultimate goal of real-time simulation of airwake effects in the helicopter/ship Dynamic Interface (DI). The flight dynamics model is free to move within a computational domain, where the main rotor forces are converted to source terms in the momentum equations of the CFD solution using an actuator disk model. Simultaneously, the CFD solver calculates induced velocities that are fed back to the simulation and affect the aerodynamic loads in the flight dynamics. The CFD solver models the inflow, ground effect and interactional aerodynamics in the flight dynamics simulation, and these calculations can be coupled with the solution of the external flow (e.g., ship airwake effects). The simulation framework for fully-coupled pilot-in-the-loop (PIL) flight dynamics/CFD is demonstrated for a simplified shedding wake. Initial tests were performed with 0.38 million structured grid cells running on 352 processors and showed near-real-time performance. Improvements to the coupling interface are described that allow the simulation run at near-real-time execution speeds on currently available computing platforms. Improvements in computing hardware are expected to allow real-time simulations.
A Framework for ranking ubiquitous computing services by AHP analysis
Authors: Izadpanah Shaghayegh , Vahdat-Nejad Hamed , Saadatfar Hamid
Published: December 2017

With the increasing advances in technology, ubiquitous computing services have been able to satisfy users by providing high quality services. Such services can be found in different areas such as healthcare, social networks, urban transportation, and multimedia. Nowadays, there are a wide variety of services with similar functionalities in each of the abovementioned areas. Ranking these services based on quality of service (QoS) criteria can help the users to choose the most appropriate services that meet their preferences. The aim of this research is to create a comprehensive framework based on QoS criteria in ubiquitous environment to rank services. At first by extending the previous research, this paper gathers and classifies the QoS criteria into four classes of architecture, usability, ubiquity, and security. This classification organizes QoS criteria in a hierarchical structure. Afterward, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is used to propose a customized service ranking framework according to the values of each criterion. To utilize the opinions of experts of the subject, a questionnaire is designed to evaluate the proposed structure of QoS criteria and to determine the weight of each criterion. Finally, comparing the proposed framework with previous approaches indicates that this framework includes a complete set of criteria, which leads to a deep perception of QoS in a ubiquitous computing environment. Moreover, the computed inconsistency ratio indicates that the performed decision-making process has a reasonable consistency.
A cloud-based experimental platform for networked industrial control systems
Authors: Tao Qingguang , Jiang Min , Wang Xiaofeng , Deng Bo
Published: December 2017

Today, a large number of information and communication technologies (ICT) and networking technologies are being used in industrial control systems. Thus, networked industrial control systems (NICS) are exposed to many security threats. Moreover, new technologies for NICS also need to be tested. This paper presents a cloud-based experimental platform for NICS to test new technologies and security threats. A cloud platform is used to emulate network devices and Simulink is used to simulate the physical layer. To build this testbed, we modify the cloud platform and add three modules to the testbed. One module is used so that the cloud platform can connect to real devices. By using this module, real devices can be added to the networks in the cloud platform. The second module is used for network connection configurations in the testbed. By using this module, the bandwidth, delay and packet loss rate for networks in the testbed can all be set. The third module is used to connect the Simulink to the testbed. The main features of the proposed platform are high flexibility, high authenticity, and low cost. Advanced persistent threat (APT) attacks are a common threat for NICS nowadays. In order to prove the feasibility of the proposed testbed, a common NICS is established and an APT attack is executed on it.
Parallel Algorithms and Concentration Bounds for the Lovász Local Lemma via Witness DAGs
Authors: Haeupler Bernhard , Harris David G.
Published: December 2017

The Lovász Local Lemma (LLL) is a cornerstone principle in the probabilistic method of combinatorics, and a seminal algorithm of Moser and Tardos (2010) provides an efficient randomized algorithm to implement it. This can be parallelized to give an algorithm that uses polynomially many processors and runs in
O
(log
3
n
) time on an EREW PRAM, stemming from
O
(log
n
) adaptive computations of a maximal independent set (MIS). Chung et al. (2014) developed faster local and parallel algorithms, potentially running in time
O
(log
2
n
), but these algorithms require more stringent conditions than the LLL. We give a new parallel algorithm that works under essentially the same conditions as the original algorithm of Moser and Tardos but uses only a single MIS computation, thus running in
O
(log
2
n
) time on an EREW PRAM. This can be derandomized to give an NC algorithm running in time
O
(log
2
n
) as well, speeding up a previous NC LLL algorithm of Chandrasekaran et al. (2013). We also provide improved and tighter bounds on the runtimes of the sequential and parallel resampling-based algorithms originally developed by Moser and Tardos. These apply to any problem instance in which the tighter Shearer LLL criterion is satisfied.
Extracellular Vesicles and Cancer: Caveat Lector
Authors: Shurtleff Matthew J. , Temoche-Diaz Morayma M. , Schekman Randy
Published: December 2017

A great deal of interest has developed around evidence of a role for or a marker of extracellular vesicles (EVs)/exosomes and metastatic cancer. However, the strength of a functional connection between EVs and cancer has been hampered by inadequate characterization of EVs and a lack of mechanistic details describing the means by which molecular constituents are incorporated into target cells. Here we consider the mechanisms by which EVs may mediate intercellular communication through ligand-receptor interactions or membrane fusion at the surface of or within recipient cells. We highlight common pitfalls in EV purification procedures and describe how multistep methods combined with quantitative evaluation of EV purification are critical for attributing functional effects to EVs. We explain current limitations in our understanding of the functional internalization of EVs and discuss relevant biological and biochemical controls that may be applied to help strengthen the case for a meaningful effect on target cells.
Association between the APOEε4 Allele and Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease in an Ecuadorian Mestizo Population
Authors: Montufar Stefany , Calero Cristian , Vinueza Rodrigo , Correa Patricio , Carrera-Gonzalez Andrea , Villegas Franklin , Moreta Germania , Paredes Rosario
Published: December 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease. It has two main pathological hallmarks: amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. The APOEε4 allele has been recognized as the strongest genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) in several populations worldwide, yet the risk varies by region and ethnicity. The aims of this study were to describe APOE allele and genotype frequencies and examine the relationship between the APOEε4 allele and LOAD risk in an Ecuadorian Mestizo population. We carried out a case-control study comprising 56 individuals clinically diagnosed with probable AD (≥65 years of age) and 58 unrelated healthy control subjects (≥65 years of age). Genotyping was performed using the real-time PCR method. Our data showed that allelic and genotypic frequencies follow the trends observed in most worldwide populations. We also found a high-risk association between APOEε4 allele carriers and LOAD (OR = 7.286; 95% CI = 2.824–18.799;p<0.001). Therefore, we concluded that APOEε4 must be considered an important genetic risk factor for LOAD in the Ecuadorian Mestizo population. Additionally, we suggest that in mixed populations the effects of admixture and ethnic identity should be differentiated when evaluating genetic contributions to Alzheimer’s disease risk.
Broadband RCS Reduction of Antenna with AMC Using Gradually Concentric Ring Arrangement
Authors: Wang Fuwei , Ren Yuhui , Li Ke
Published: December 2017

This paper proposes a new method to the broadband RCS reduction with the artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) surfaces. The AMC surfaces can introduce a zero-degree reflection phase shift to incident waves. The phase difference between the antenna and AMC structures is 180°. Therefore, the AMC structures can be used to achieve RCS reduction. However, the bandwidth of zero-degree reflection phase of AMC structures is very narrow. In light of this, a novel gradually concentric ring arrangement AMC (GCRA-AMC) which can be applied to achieve the broadband RCS reduction is presented. The simulated and measured results show that the radiation performance of antennas is preserved when the GCRA-AMC is used. The RCS of the antenna with GCRA-AMC has been considerably reduced in a broad frequency band. The largest RCS reduction is more than 17 dB.
From Clinical Symptoms to MR Imaging: Diagnostic Steps in Adenomyosis
Authors: Krentel H. , Cezar C. , Becker S. , Di Spiezio Sardo A. , Tanos V. , Wallwiener M. , De Wilde R. L.
Published: December 2017

Adenomyosis or endometriosis genitalis interna is a frequent benign disease of women in fertile age. It causes symptoms like bleeding disorders and dysmenorrhea and seems to have a negative effect on fertility. Adenomyosis can be part of a complex genital and extragenital endometriosis but also can be found as a solitary uterine disease. While peritoneal endometriosis can be easily diagnosed by laparoscopy with subsequent biopsy, the determination of adenomyosis is difficult. In the following literature review, the diagnostic methods clinical history and symptoms, gynecological examination, 2D and 3D transvaginal ultrasound, MRI, hysteroscopy, and laparoscopy will be discussed step by step in order to evaluate their predictive value in the diagnosis of adenomyosis.
A Systematic Review of Security Mechanisms for Big Data in Health and New Alternatives for Hospitals
Authors: Hamrioui Sofiane , de la Torre Díez Isabel , Garcia-Zapirain Begonya , Saleem Kashif , Rodrigues Joel J. P. C.
Published: December 2017

Computer security is something that brings to mind the greatest developers and companies who wish to protect their data. Major steps forward are being taken via advances made in the security of technology. The main purpose of this paper is to provide a view of different mechanisms and algorithms used to ensure big data security and to theoretically put forward an improvement in the health-based environment using a proposed model as reference. A search was conducted for information from scientific databases as Google Scholar, IEEE Xplore, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Scopus to find information related to security in big data. The search criteria used were “big data”, “health”, “cloud”, and “security”, with dates being confined to the period from 2008 to the present time. After analyzing the different solutions, two security alternatives are proposed combining different techniques analyzed in the state of the art, with a view to providing existing information on the big data over cloud with maximum security in different hospitals located in the province of Valladolid, Spain. New mechanisms and algorithms help to create a more secure environment, although it is necessary to continue developing new and better ones to make things increasingly difficult for cybercriminals.
Inflammasomes inMycobacterium tuberculosis-Driven Immunity
Authors: Wawrocki Sebastian , Druszczynska Magdalena
Published: December 2017

The development of effective innate and subsequent adaptive host immune responses is highly dependent on the production of proinflammatory cytokines that increase the activity of immune cells. The key role in this process is played by inflammasomes, multimeric protein complexes serving as a platform for caspase-1, an enzyme responsible for proteolytic cleavage of IL-1βand IL-18 precursors. Inflammasome activation, which triggers the multifaceted activity of these two proinflammatory cytokines, is a prerequisite for developing an efficient inflammatory response against pathogenicMycobacterium tuberculosis(M.tb). This review focuses on the role of NLRP3 and AIM2 inflammasomes inM.tb-driven immunity.
Effect of Ultrasound-Enhanced Transdermal Drug Delivery Efficiency of Nanoparticles and Brucine
Authors: Zhang Nongshan , Wu Yiyun , Xing Runlin , Xu Bo , Guoliang Dai , Wang Peimin
Published: December 2017

Brucine is the active component in traditional Chinese medicine “Ma-Qian-Zi” (Strychnos nux-vomica Linn), with capabilities of analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and so on. It is crucial how to break through the impact of cuticle skin which reduces the penetration of drugs to improve drug transmission rate. The aim of this study is to improve the local drug concentration by using ultrasound. We used fresh porcine skin to study the effects of ultrasound on the transdermal absorption of brucine under the influence of various acoustic parameters, including frequency, amplitude and irradiation time. The transdermal conditions of yellow-green fluorescent nanoparticles and brucine in skin samples were observed by laser confocal microscopy and ultraviolet spectrophotometry. The results show that under ultrasonic conditions, the permeability of the skin to the fluorescent label and brucine (e.g., the depth and concentration of penetration) is increased compared to its passive diffusion permeability. The best ultrasound penetration can make the penetration depth of more than 110 microns, fluorescent nanoparticles and brucine concentration increased to 2-3 times. This work will provide supportive data on how the brucine is better used for transdermal drug delivery (TDD).
Relapsing Ipsilateral Vestibular Neuritis
Authors: Emiliano De Schutter Duilio , Pérez Fernández Nicolás
Published: December 2017

In 2013, a 70-year-old male was admitted with an acute episode of vertigo, nausea, and vomiting with duration of one day. The patient’s background included prehypertension, vitiligo, left ventricular hypertrophy, and Sjögren's syndrome. He denied any previous episode of vertigo or migraine manifestations. Neither hearing loss nor tinnitus or otorrhea was detected at the time of evaluation. No neurological symptoms were found. There was a left-beating spontaneous nystagmus Grade 3. The patient could stand still and walk on his own with some help without falling. Day 1 vHIT showed a significant reduction in VOR gain and refixation saccades after head impulses were delivered in the planes of the right anterior and horizontal semicircular canals. MRI showed no significant findings. He was treated with steroids. A vHIT performed 14 days later showed recovery of gains and no refixation saccades. In 2015, the patient had a new episode of acute vertigo. The clinical examination was similar, and the vHIT revealed a new drop of right superior and lateral canal gains. Cervical and ocular VEMPs were performed, and no significant asymmetry was detected. Serum PCR for herpes viruses resulted negative. Contrast MRI was performed without relevant brain findings.
Treatment of Anemia of Chronic Disease with True Iron Deficiency in Pregnancy
Authors: Amstad Bencaiova Gabriela , Krafft Alexander , Zimmermann Roland , Burkhardt Tilo
Published: December 2017

Objective.We assess and compare the efficacy of anemia treatment in pregnant women with anemia of chronic disease with true iron deficiency and in women with iron deficiency anemia.Study Design.Fifty patients with moderate anemia (hemoglobin 8.0–9.9 g/dl) and iron deficiency (ferritin < 15 μg/l) were treated in the Anemia Clinic at the Department of Obstetrics.Results.All patients showed stimulation of erythropoiesis as evidenced by an increase in reticulocyte count at day eight of therapy and showed an increase in hemoglobin and hematocrit at the end of therapy (p<0.001). The target hemoglobin (≥10.5 g/dl) was achieved in 45/50 women (90%). 12 patients showed anemia of chronic disease with true iron deficiency (12/50; 24%). Seven women (7/12; 59%) with anemia of chronic disease and iron deficiency responded well to anemia treatment. 50% of women with anemia of chronic disease and iron deficiency (3/6) responded well to intravenous iron, and 67% (4/6) responded well to the combination of intravenous iron and recombinant human erythropoietin.Conclusion.Because of frequent true iron deficiency in pregnant women with anemia of chronic disease, anemia of chronic disease in pregnancy is often falsely diagnosed as iron deficiency anemia.
A Novel Hybrid Similarity Calculation Model
Authors: Fan Xiaoping , Chen Zhijie , Zhu Liangkun , Liao Zhifang , Fu Bencai
Published: December 2017

This paper addresses the problems of similarity calculation in the traditional recommendation algorithms of nearest neighbor collaborative filtering, especially the failure in describing dynamic user preference. Proceeding from the perspective of solving the problem of user interest drift, a new hybrid similarity calculation model is proposed in this paper. This model consists of two parts, on the one hand the model uses the function fitting to describe users’ rating behaviors and their rating preferences, and on the other hand it employs the Random Forest algorithm to take user attribute features into account. Furthermore, the paper combines the two parts to build a new hybrid similarity calculation model for user recommendation. Experimental results show that, for data sets of different size, the model’s prediction precision is higher than the traditional recommendation algorithms.
Modeling and Simulation of Project Management through the PMBOK® Standard Using Complex Networks
Authors: Cardona-Meza Luz Stella , Olivar-Tost Gerard
Published: December 2017

Discussion about project management, in both the academic literature and industry, is predominantly based on theories of control, many of which have been developed since the 1950s. However, issues arise when these ideas are applied unilaterally to all types of projects and in all contexts. In complex environments, management problems arise from assuming that results, predicted at the start of a project, can be sufficiently described and delivered as planned. Thus, once a project reaches a critical size, a calendar, and a certain level of ambiguity and interconnection, the analysis centered on control does not function adequately. Projects that involve complex situations can be described as adaptive complex systems, consistent in multiple interdependent dynamic components, multiple feedback processes, nonlinear relations, and management of hard data (process dynamics) and soft data (executive team dynamics). In this study, through a complex network, the dynamic structure of a project and its trajectories are simulated using inference processes. Finally, some numerical simulations are described, leading to a decision making tool that identifies critical processes, thereby obtaining better performance outcomes of projects.
The STARTEC Decision Support Tool for Better Tradeoffs between Food Safety, Quality, Nutrition, and Costs in Production of Advanced Ready-to-Eat Foods
Authors: Skjerdal Taran , Gefferth Andras , Spajic Miroslav , Estanga Edurne Gaston , de Cecare Alessandra , Vitali Silvia , Pasquali Frederique , Bovo Federica , Manfreda Gerardo , Mancusi Rocco , Trevisiani Marcello , Tessema Girum Tadesse , Fagereng Tone , Moen Lena Haugland , Lyshaug Lars , Koidis Anastasios , Delgado-Pando Gonzalo , Stratakos Alexandros Ch. , Boeri Marco , From Cecilie , Syed Hyat , Muccioli Mirko , Mulazzani Roberto , Halbert Catherine
Published: December 2017

A prototype decision support IT-tool for the food industry was developed in the STARTEC project. Typical processes and decision steps were mapped using real life production scenarios of participating food companies manufacturing complex ready-to-eat foods. Companies looked for a more integrated approach when making food safety decisions that would align with existing HACCP systems. The tool was designed with shelf life assessments and data on safety, quality, and costs, using a pasta salad meal as a case product. The process flow chart was used as starting point, with simulation options at each process step. Key parameters like pH, water activity, costs of ingredients and salaries, and default models for calculations ofListeria monocytogenes, quality scores, and vitamin C, were placed in an interactive database. Customization of the models and settings was possible on the user-interface. The simulation module outputs were provided as detailed curves or categorized as “good”; “sufficient”; or “corrective action needed” based on threshold limit values set by the user. Possible corrective actions were suggested by the system. The tool was tested and approved by end-users based on selected ready-to-eat food products. Compared to other decision support tools, the STARTEC-tool is product-specific and multidisciplinary and includes interpretation and targeted recommendations for end-users.
Local Parametric Approach of Wireless Capsule Endoscope Localization Using Randomly Scattered Path Loss Based WCL
Authors: Hany Umma , Akter Lutfa
Published: December 2017

We propose scattered path loss based weighted centroid localization (WCL) algorithm for wireless video capsule endoscope (VCE). The main challenge in this approach is the random deviation in the measured received signal strength indicator (RSSI) caused by multipath propagation and shadowing effects of human body channel which in turn increases the localization error. To address this issue, we propose local parameter dependent path loss representation in the training phase and apply adaptive least square error (LSE) method to extract the parameters. Then, in the test phase, we estimate distance using the extracted parameters and the randomly scattered path loss. The position of capsule is estimated using non-degree based WCL followed by a calibration process. We propose suboptimal method of estimating the calibration coefficient and also compute the optimal value of coefficient analytically to set the benchmark. We develop a simulation platform using MATLAB to present the results and to verify the performance. We gradually increase the number of sensors and place them in different topologies using different dimensions. The obtained accuracy by our proposed suboptimal method of WCL is very close to the optimal benchmark for all cases. Our proposed approach also outperforms existing works in terms of localization accuracy.
Comparative Analysis and Classification of Cassette Exons and Constitutive Exons
Authors: Cui Ying , Cai Meng , Stanley H. Eugene
Published: December 2017

Alternative splicing (AS) is a major engine that drives proteome diversity in mammalian genomes and is a widespread cause of human hereditary diseases. More than 95% of genes in the human genome are alternatively spliced, and the most common type of AS is the cassette exon. Recent discoveries have demonstrated that the cassette exon plays an important role in genetic diseases. To discover the formation mechanism of cassette exon events, we statistically analyze cassette exons and find that cassette exon events are strongly influenced by individual exons that are smaller in size and that have a lower GC content, more codon terminations, and weaker splice sites. We propose an improved random-forest-based hybrid method of distinguishing cassette exons from constitutive exons. Our method achieves a high accuracy in classifying cassette exons and constitutive exons and is verified to outperform previous approaches. It is anticipated that this study will facilitate a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms in cassette exons.
Poly‐ε‐Caprolactone Microsphere Polymers Containing Usnic Acid: Acute Toxicity and Anti‐Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Barbosa Jéssica A. P. , Franco Eryvelton S. , Silva Camilla V. N. S. , Bezerra Tatiane O. , Santana Marllon A. N. , Júnior Carlson H. R. C. , Silva Teresinha G. , Santos Noemia P. S. , Maia Maria B. S.
Published: December 2017

Usnic acid (UA) has been studied by its pharmacological properties; however, it presents moderate toxicity, low solubility, and absorption by biological membranes. The aim of this study was to develop poly‐ε‐caprolactone microsphere polymers containing UA (UA‐micro) and evaluate their acute toxicity and anti‐inflammatory activity. The microspheres were prepared by multiple emulsion technique (water/oil/water) and characterized by the encapsulation efficiency, particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential. The acute toxicity of UA and UA‐micro (25–50 mg/kg; p.o.) was evaluated in mice. The anti‐inflammatory activity of UA and UA‐micro was evaluated by subcutaneous air pouch and carrageenan‐induced paw edema in rat, with measurement of inflammatory cytokines and MPO levels. The UA presented encapsulation efficiency of 97.72%, particle size of 13.54 micrometers, polydispersity index of 2.36, and zeta potential of 44.5 ± 2.95 mV. The UA‐micro presented lower acute toxicity (LD50 value up to 2000 mg/kg; p.o.) when compared to UA. UA‐micro and UA (25 mg/kg) significantly reduced paw volume and decreased MPO levels, whereas only UA‐micro (50 mg/kg) reduced significantly IL‐1β, TNF‐α, and NO levels in inflammatory exudate. These results suggest that controlled release systems, as microspheres, can be a promising alternative to reduce the toxicity of UA, making it a viable compound for inflammation therapy.
Long-Term Follow-Up in Children with Anisocoria: Cocaine Test Results and Patient Outcome
Authors: Fierz Fabienne C. , Gerth-Kahlert Christina
Published: December 2017

Background. Evaluation of anisocoria including pharmacological testing for Horner’s syndrome in the pediatric population is challenging in view of potential serious underlying disease. We describe cocaine test results, outcome of systemic investigation, and long-term follow-up in children with anisocoria.Methods. Retrospective review of medical records and phone interview of consecutive pediatric patients (<18 years old) who underwent cocaine testing from August 2007 to July 2015 at a tertiary referral centre.Results.A total of 35 patients were included with a positive, negative, or inconclusive cocaine test in 12/35, 19/35, and 4/35, respectively. Systemic investigation was performed in 11 of the patients with a positive and in 2 of the patients with an inconclusive cocaine test result. Mediastinal Hodgkin lymphoma was found in one patient with an inconclusive cocaine test result. Two other cases were presumably related to birth trauma and surgical trauma. None of the other children further developed any pathology during the follow-up period of 34.8 months (range 0–106.6).Conclusions.In most children with anisocoria and a positive cocaine test result, systemic investigation did not reveal any underlying etiology. The only malignant disease was diagnosed in a patient with a suspicion of Horner’s syndrome but with an inconclusive cocaine test result in our cohort.
Efficacy of One-Year Treatment with Aflibercept for Diabetic Macular Edema with Practical Protocol
Authors: Kaiho Tomomi , Oshitari Toshiyuki , Tatsumi Tomoaki , Takatsuna Yoko , Arai Miyuki , Shimizu Norihiro , Sato Eiju , Baba Takayuki , Yamamoto Shuichi
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of one-year treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME) with intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) injections on a practical protocol. The medical records of 51 eyes of 43 patients who were diagnosed with DME and had received IVA treatments were reviewed. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the central macular thickness (CMT) were measured at the baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the IVA. The mean number of IVA injections was 3.8±2.4. The mean BCVA was significantly better and the CMT was thinner after the IVA at all follow-up times (P<0.05). The BCVA was better in eyes with a serous retinal detachment (SRD) than without a SRD (P<0.01). There was a significant correlation between the photoreceptor outer segment (PROS) length and BCVA at the baseline and at 12 months after the IVA (P<0.05). A fewer number of IVA injections significantly improved the BCVA and the CMT in eyes with DME after one-year treatment. IVA was more effective in the SRD+ group than in the SRD− group. The PROS length may be a predictive marker for visual outcomes after one-year treatment with IVA for DME (IRB#2272).
In Vitro Biological Screening of Hartmannia rosea Extracts
Authors: Rashid Rehana , Kalsoom Khan Abida , Ul Haq Ihsan , Mir Sadullah , Mehmood Sadaf , Lu Yi , Murtaza Ghulam
Published: December 2017

The present study is focused on the assessment of the medicinal therapeutic potential extracts of H. rosea to investigate their pharmacological implications based upon science proofs. The antioxidant activity of fraction of H. rosea, namely, n-hexane (HR-1), ethyl acetate (HR-2), chloroform (HR-3), and n-butanol (HR-4), was performed by using the DPPH radical scavenging method. The cytotoxicity and enzyme inhibition assessment were also performed. All the extracts showed significant antioxidant, antibacterial, and protein kinase inhibition but none of the extracts exhibited α-amylase inhibition activity. The chloroform extract HR-3 may block a kinase receptor from binding to ATP; the lead molecule will be isolated, which may stop cancerous cell growth and demotion of cell division. It is predicted that ethyl acetate, chloroform, and n-butanol extracts of H. rosea contain polyphenolics, flavonoids, and alkaloids that are biologically effective candidates exhibiting significant cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. They may control oxidative damage in the body tissues and act as potential antidiabetic and anticancer agents. These studies will also be helpful for future drug designing and drug development research.
A Randomized Controlled Study of the Yi Qi Gu Biao Pill in the Treatment of Frequent Exacerbator Phenotype in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (Lung and Spleen Qi Deficiency Syndrome)
Authors: Zhen Gao , Jing Jing , Dan Xu , Zheng Li , Fengsen Li , Qi Sun
Published: December 2017

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Yi Qi Gu Biao (YQGB) pill in treating frequent exacerbator phenotype in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (lung and spleen qi deficiency syndrome) (FEPCOPD). Methods. This prospective, randomized, double‐blind, controlled study assessed 112 cases (64 included) of FEPCOPD treated at the outpatient department in our hospital in January–August 2016. The patients were randomly divided into YQGB and placebo (Pb) and treated for three months. Lung function, CAT, mMRC, and TCM symptom scores (TCMs) were observed. Results. Compared with Pb, YQGB showed decreased wheezing symptom scores (WSs) and TCMs at one month and decreased CAT and TCMs at three months. From one to three months, CAT, cough, sputum, WSs, and TCMs in YQGB were lower than pretreatment values. But in Pb, CAT was lower than pretreatment values after one month; CAT, sputum, and TCMs were lower than pretreatment values after two months; CAT, cough, sputum, WSs, and TCMs were lower than pretreatment values after three months. Conclusion. Yi Qi Gu Biao pill can improve wheezing, health status, and TCMs in FEPCOPD and also can shorten the durations of cough, sputum, and wheezing. This trial is registered in the Clinical Trials Registry of China: ChiCTR-IOR-15007542 (on 8 December 2015).
Um cabra de cor ou um cabra da mãe: dinâmicas de sentido para “cabra” entre os séculos XVI e XIX
Authors: Almeida Mayara Aparecida Ribeiro de , Amorim Amanda Moreira de , Paula Maria Helena De
Published: December 2017

No presente estudo analisamos as dinâmicas de sentido da lexia “cabra”, largamente utilizada no Brasil entre os séculos XVI e XIX para referenciar alguns índios e negros nascidos na condição de escravos ou livres no país, buscando definir o seu sentido em três tipos de documentos: uma escritura de doação de escravo (fólios 109 verso e 110 recto) presente no Livro de Notas do 2º Tabelliaõ Isaac Lange da Cunha; o Livro de Registros de Batizados da Paróquia Nossa Senhora Mãe de Deus (maio de 1837 a setembro de 1838); e documentos presentes na tese “Dar nome ao novo: uma história lexical da ibero-América, entre os séculos XVI e XVIII (as dinâmicas de mestiçagens e o mundo do trabalho)” de Paiva (2014). Para tanto, baseamo-nos nas lições da lexicologia apresentadas por Biderman (2001). Em sequência, consultamos os dicionários de Ferreira (2010), Bluteau (1728), Houaiss e Villar (2009), Moura (2004) e Moraes Silva ([1789]1813) para verificação e confronto de definições. Fundamentamo-nos, também, nos estudos de Paiva (2014) e Malheiro (1867; 2014) no que se refere a fontes teóricas acerca da história escravocrata, relacionando o acervo lexical dos manuscritos citados anteriormente com a história e a cultura por eles registradas.
Uso de letras maiúsculas na novela Statira, e Zoroastes, de Lucas José d’Alvarenga (1826)
Authors: Oliveira Gracinéa Imaculada
Published: December 2017

Neste artigo, descreveu-se e analisou-se o uso das letras maiúsculas na primeira novela publicada no Brasil – Statira, e Zoroastes (1826), de Lucas José d’Alvarenga. Na análise dos dados, utilizou-se a classificação proposta por Meier (1948). Para isso, listouse, quantificou-se e classificou-se toda ocorrência de letras maiúsculas da novela em duas funções propostas pelo autor: estruturante (relacionada a aspectos visuais e sintáticos) e semântica (relativa a elementos de particularização e de ênfase a determinados campos semânticos). Na primeira, o uso da letra maiúscula foi categórico nos contextos analisados. Na segunda (que inclui as funções individualizadora, hierarquizadora, distintiva), houve oscilações, mas a análise mostrou que o uso da inicial maiúscula não foi aleatório, nem se restringiu à grafia, está relacionado aos grandes temas da novela: política, nobreza, guerra, religião, saber e sentimento. Ou seja, o uso foi, sobretudo, de ordem semântica. Os temas relevantes que perpassam o texto foram grafados com letra inicial maiúscula.
A new genus of the tribe Praini Mackauer (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Aphidiinae) from China
Authors: TIAN HONG-WEI , ACHTERBERG KEES van , CHEN XUE-XIN
Published: December 2017

A new genus of the tribe Praini Mackauer, 1961 (Braconidae: Aphidiinae) from China is described in this paper, Astigmapraon Tian et Chen, gen. nov. (Type species: A. hei Tian et Chen, sp. nov. from Shaanxi and Sichuan). An identification key to the genera of Praini is added.
A preliminary study in zero anaphora coreference resolution for Polish
Authors: Kaczmarek Adam Jan , Marcińczuk Michał
Published: December 2017

A preliminary study in zero anaphora coreference resolution for PolishZero anaphora is an element of the coreference resolution task that has not yet been directly addressed in Polish and, in most studies, it has been left as the most challenging aspect for further investigation. This article presents an initial study of this problem. The preparation of a machine learning approach, alongside engineering features based on linguistic study of the KPWr corpus, is discussed. This study utilizes existing tools for Polish coreference resolution as sources of partial coreferential clusters containing pronoun, noun and named entity mentions. They are also used as baseline zero coreference resolution systems for comparison with our system. The evaluation process is focused not only on clustering correctness, without taking into account types of mentions, using standard CoNLL-2012 measures, but also on the informativeness of the resulting relations. According to the annotation approach used for coreference to the KPWr corpus, only named entities are treated as mentions that are informative enough to constitute a link to real world objects. Consequently, we provide an evaluation of informativeness based on found links between zero anaphoras and named entities. For the same reason, we restrict coreference resolution in this study to mention clusters built around named entities. Wstępne studium rozwiązywania problemu koreferencji anafory zerowej w języku polskimKoreferencja zerowa, w języku polskim, jest jednym z zagadnień rozpoznawania koreferencji. Dotychczas nie była ona bezpośrednim przedmiotem badań, gdyż ze względu na jej złożoność była pomijana i odsuwana na dalsze etapy badań. Artykuł prezentuje wstępne studium problemu, jakim jest rozpoznawanie koreferencji zerowej. Przedstawiamy podejście wykorzystujące techniki uczenia maszynowego oraz proces tworzenia cech w oparciu o analizę lingwistyczną korpusu KPWr. W przedstawionej pracy wykorzystujemy istniejące narzędzia do rozpoznawania koreferencji dla pozostałych rodzajów wzmianek (tj. nazwy własne, frazy rzeczownikowe oraz zaimki) jako źródło częściowych zbiorów wzmianek odnoszących się do tego samego obiektu, a także jako punkt odniesienia dla uzyskanych przez nas wyników. Ocena skupia się nie tylko na poprawności uzyskanych zbiorów wzmianek, bez względu na ich typ, co odzwierciedlają wyniki podane dla standardowych metryk CoNLL-2012, ale także na wartości informacji, która zostaje uzyskana w wyniku rozpoznania koreferencji. W nawiązaniu do założeń anotacji korpusu KPWr, jedynie nazwy własne traktowane są jako wzmianki, które zawierają w sobie wystarczająco szczegółową informację, aby można było powiązać je z obiektami rzeczywistymi. W konsekwencji dostarczamy także ocenę opartą na wartości informacji dla podmiotów domyślnych połączonych relacją koreferencji z nazwami własnymi. Z tą samą motywacją rozpatrujemy jedynie zbiory wzmianek koreferencyjnych zbudowane wokół nazw własnych.
Characterization of Barium Borate Frameworks Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Gharavi-Naeini Jafar , Yoo Kyung W. , Stump Nathan A.
Published: December 2017

Systematic micro-Raman scattering investigations have been carried out on Sm+2 doped 2(BaO)–n(B2O3) matrices for n = 4, 5, 8, and 2(BaO)–(Na2O)–9(B2O3) using the 364 nm excitation of an Ar+ laser. The Raman results have been compared with the known structures of barium tetraborate, barium pentaborate, barium octaborate, and barium sodium nonaborate. An excellent correlation has been found between the BO4/BO3 composition ratios for each product and intensity ratios of the designated BO4 and BO3 Raman peaks. Furthermore, the Raman frequencies of both BO4 and BO3 groups undergo a systematic blueshift as n increases from four to nine. The shift results from a decrease of the B–O bond lengths for both BO4 and BO3 groups as the samples transition from the tetraborate to nonaborate structures. Linear relations (with negative slopes) have been determined between the measured Raman frequencies and B–O bond lengths in the frameworks.
Improvements in standardised test scores from a multi-component nutrition and healthy living intervention in a US elementary-school setting
Authors: Kopkin Nolan , Martin Mirinda L , Hollar Danielle
Published: December 2017

Objective:

The Healthier Options for Public Schoolchildren (HOPS) intervention aimed simultaneously to change school policies regarding the nutritional content of school-provided meals, nutrition and healthy lifestyle curricula, and other school-based wellness activities. Researchers examined how HOPS affected students’ academic achievement, attendance and behaviour.

Design:

Longitudinal study of 23,335 elementary-school students aged 4–16 years enlisted in kindergarten to grade 8 in the 2005–2006 school year and followed through until the 2008–2009 school year.

Setting:

HOPS was implemented in 11 Buffalo (New York) public elementary schools at the start of 2007–2008 school year and concluded in January 2009; 34 other district elementary schools were chosen for comparison.

Method:

Administrative records were obtained containing student demographics, mathematics and English test scores, and attendance and disciplinary records. A difference-in-differences approach was used to measure the HOPS intervention’s effect on mathematics and English test scores and the proportion of days present or not suspended. Significance was tested at 1% and 5% levels.

Results:

Analysis comparing students in intervention and comparison schools revealed an increase in standardised mathematics test scores among all students ( p < .05), with particularly strong impacts on girls ( p < .01), African American and Hispanic students ( p < .01) and economically advantaged students ( p < .01). HOPS had an adverse impact on attendance and disciplinary referrals ( p < .01), although the effects were small.

Conclusion:

When considering the implementation of a school-based wellness programme, administrators should consider its academic benefits. Research into the effectiveness of programmes such as HOPS at improving cognitive and non-cognitive outcomes of school-aged children is particularly relevant given recent US Department of Agriculture rollback of whole grain, sodium and milk requirements.
Teaching in Silicon
Authors: Hardy C. J. , Hill E. W. , Jones P. L. , Pickard R. M. , Quayle R. S.
Published: December 2017

Teaching in silicon

An integrated laboratory and lecture course for teaching silicon microcircuit design and fabrication to final-year undergraduates is described. A key feature is that student designs are implemented on Ferranti uncommitted logic arrays by direct-write electron-beam lithography, thus providing rapid turnround at low unit cost.
Introducing Electrical Engineering Students to the Manufacture of Silicon Integrated Circuits
Authors: Dryburgh P. M.
Published: December 2017

Introducing electrical engineering students to the manufacture of silicon integrated circuits

This paper describes an undergraduate course for electrical engineering students devoted entirely to the theoretical and practical background of the manufacturing processes used in the production of silicon integrated circuits and discusses the structure of the course, the tutorial material, and some of the problems encountered.
Fast-Turnaround Gate Array Commitment Using E-Beam Generated Masks
Authors: Cottrel R. A. , Hick P. J. , Mckell H. D.
Published: December 2017

Fast-turnaround gate array commitment using e-beam generated masks

Gate arrays have been shown to provide an excellent means of introducing students to the design of circuits on silicon. Using electron beam lithography to produce the single mask required for patterning the metal interconnection layer, a number of different designs can be fabricated on a multi-chip wafer. The paper describes how this technique has been applied to the Ferranti 5C000 Uncommitted Logic Array (U.L.A.).
The Input Impedance of Voltage-Controlled Voltage-Source (VCVS) Active Filters
Authors: Waters A. , Newsome J. P.
Published: December 2017

The input impedance of voltage-controlled voltage-source (VCVS) active Alters

This paper examines the effects of source impedance on the overall frequency response of voltage-controlled voltage-source active filter circuits, whose input impedance varies widely with frequency, a fact which is not always appreciated.
A Power Systems Analysis Laboratory Experiment on Transient Stability
Authors: Indulkar C. S.
Published: December 2017

A power systems analysis laboratory experiment on transient stability

The sensitivity values of the critical clearing angle of a generator connected to an infinite bus through a double circuit transmission line, with respect to the system parameters, are evaluated, and the limiting values of the parameters within which the system can remain stable are identified.
Textbooks in Electrical Engineering Degree Courses
Authors: Bowron P.
Published: December 2017

Textbooks in electrical engineering degree courses

The role of books in Electrical Engineering higher education is appraised by considering their use in courses, their selection and their procurement. Particular emphasis is placed on peer reviews and class assessments of popular teaching texts. The importance of libraries and co-operation with campus bookshops is also discussed.
The Electrical Tasks Course in the Special Engineering Programme
Authors: O'connor B. , Ainscough J. , Rakowski R.
Published: December 2017

The electrical tasks course in the special engineering programme

A course is described, where the students learn new material in the area of electronics not through lectures but by a process of problem-solving, experimental work, report writing and oral presentations. Experience of staff and students indicates that the course is highly effective in achieving its educational aims.
Process Control Simulation Package ‘PCS’
Authors: Golten J. W.
Published: December 2017

Process control simulation package ‘PCS’

‘PCS’ is a simulation package which will run on the BBC microcomputer. It simulates the behaviour of a simple plant with a three-term controller. Both transient and frequency response plots can be obtained. The effects of varying transport delay, control effort limiting and other practical aspects can be investigated.
Socrates, Virtue, and the Modern Professor
Authors: Samons L. J.
Published: December 2017

as well as ancient philosophers frequently concerned themselves with questions of personal or moral excellence (arete, virtus or “virtue”), and many (although not all) also believed that this quality could be fostered or inculcated in individual human beings. If we assume that virtue can be taught, the example of Socrates encourages the idea that this may be achieved most effectively through student interaction with “virtuous” professors, regardless of the instructors' particular areas of expertise. It follows, therefore, that universities and colleges interested in fostering virtue must strive to train and hire such faculty.