bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colivelin Ameliorates Impairments in Cognitive Behaviors and Synaptic Plasticity in APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice
Authors: Wu Meina , Shi Hui , He Yexin , Yuan Li , Qu Xuesong , Zhang Jun , Wang Zhaojun , Cai Hongyan , Qi Jinshun
Published: July 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, and effective therapeutics are lacking. Colivelin (CLN), a novel, strong humanin derivative, is effective in vitro in preventing cell death induced by AD-causative genes and amyloid-β protein (Aβ) even at a low concentration. We recently demonstrated that intrahippocampal injection of CLN prevents Aβ25–35-induced deficits in spatial memory and synaptic plasticity in normal rats. Here, we further observed the effects of chronically intranasally (i.n.) administered CLN on cognitive behaviors and pathological hallmarks in 9-month-old APPswe/PS1dE9 (APP/PS1) AD mice using multiple behavioral tests and immunochemistry. The electrophysiological mechanism of CLN neuroprotection was also investigated by recording in vivo hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP). CLN pretreatment effectively prevented impairments in new object recognition, working memory, and long-term spatial memory and reversed the depression of in vivo hippocampal LTP in APP/PS1 mice. Additionally, chronic application of CLN obviously reduced Aβ deposition in the hippocampus in APP/PS1 mice. These results indicate that CLN has strong neuroprotective effects on learning and memory behaviors in APP/PS1 mice and that this behavioral improvement is closely associated with the reduction of Aβ deposition and alleviation of LTP suppression in the hippocampus, supporting the potential of CLN for the prevention and treatment of AD.
Fuzzy Fireworks Algorithm Based on a Sparks Dispersion Measure
Authors: Barraza Juan , Melin Patricia , Valdez Fevrier , Gonzalez Claudia
Published: July 2017

The main goal of this paper is to improve the performance of the Fireworks Algorithm (FWA). To improve the performance of the FWA we propose three modifications: the first modification is to change the stopping criteria, this is to say, previously, the number of function evaluations was utilized as a stopping criteria, and we decided to change this to specify a particular number of iterations; the second and third modifications consist on introducing a dispersion metric (dispersion percent), and both modifications were made with the goal of achieving dynamic adaptation of the two parameters in the algorithm. The parameters that were controlled are the explosion amplitude and the number of sparks, and it is worth mentioning that the control of these parameters is based on a fuzzy logic approach. To measure the impact of these modifications, we perform experiments with 14 benchmark functions and a comparative study shows the advantage of the proposed approach. We decided to call the proposed algorithms Iterative Fireworks Algorithm (IFWA) and two variants of the Dispersion Percent Iterative Fuzzy Fireworks Algorithm (DPIFWA-I and DPIFWA-II, respectively).
Aspect Ratio Evolution in Embedded, Surface, and Corner Cracks in Finite-Thickness Plates under Tensile Fatigue Loading
Authors: Toribio Jesús , Matos Juan-Carlos , González Beatriz
Published: July 2017

This article deals with the computational modelling of the fatigue crack aspect ratio evolution in embedded, surface, and corner cracks located in finite-thickness plates under tensile fatigue. The approach is based on the Paris law for fatigue propagation and an expression for the stress intensity factor (SIF) provided by Newman and Raju. Numerical results indicate that the crack path develops in such a manner that all flaws tend to reach similar aspect ratios, i.e., a preferential crack path does exist along which there is a one-to-one relationship between the aspect ratio and the relative crack depth (a sort of master curve in the matter of fatigue crack path evolution). Such a reference curve corresponds to that of a very superficial initial flaw with almost circular shape. The convergence (quicker or slower approach between fatigue crack paths starting from different initial defects) is higher for surface flaws than for corner cracks, and quicker for the latter than for embedded discontinuities. Corner defects increase their size faster than surface cracks, and the latter do the same quicker than the embedded ones.
Brain Interaction during Cooperation: Evaluating Local Properties of Multiple-Brain Network
Authors: Sciaraffa Nicolina , Borghini Gianluca , Aricò Pietro , Di Flumeri Gianluca , Colosimo Alfredo , Bezerianos Anastasios , Thakor Nitish , Babiloni Fabio
Published: July 2017

Subjects’ interaction is the core of most human activities. This is the reason why a lack of coordination is often the cause of missing goals, more than individual failure. While there are different subjective and objective measures to assess the level of mental effort required by subjects while facing a situation that is getting harder, that is, mental workload, to define an objective measure based on how and if team members are interacting is not so straightforward. In this study, behavioral, subjective and synchronized electroencephalographic data were collected from couples involved in a cooperative task to describe the relationship between task difficulty and team coordination, in the sense of interaction aimed at cooperatively performing the assignment. Multiple-brain connectivity analysis provided information about the whole interacting system. The results showed that averaged local properties of a brain network were affected by task difficulty. In particular, strength changed significantly with task difficulty and clustering coefficients strongly correlated with the workload itself. In particular, a higher workload corresponded to lower clustering values over the central and parietal brain areas. Such results has been interpreted as less efficient organization of the network when the subjects’ activities, due to high workload tendencies, were less coordinated.
Using Machine Learning to Discover Latent Social Phenotypes in Free-Ranging Macaques
Authors: Madlon-Kay Seth , Brent Lauren , Montague Michael , Heller Katherine , Platt Michael
Published: July 2017

Investigating the biological bases of social phenotypes is challenging because social behavior is both high-dimensional and richly structured, and biological factors are more likely to influence complex patterns of behavior rather than any single behavior in isolation. The space of all possible patterns of interactions among behaviors is too large to investigate using conventional statistical methods. In order to quantitatively define social phenotypes from natural behavior, we developed a machine learning model to identify and measure patterns of behavior in naturalistic observational data, as well as their relationships to biological, environmental, and demographic sources of variation. We applied this model to extensive observations of natural behavior in free-ranging rhesus macaques, and identified behavioral states that appeared to capture periods of social isolation, competition over food, conflicts among groups, and affiliative coexistence. Phenotypes, represented as the rate of being in each state for a particular animal, were strongly and broadly influenced by dominance rank, sex, and social group membership. We also identified two states for which variation in rates had a substantial genetic component. We discuss how this model can be extended to identify the contributions to social phenotypes of particular genetic pathways.
Particle Characterisation and Depletion of Li2CO3 Inhibitor in a Polyurethane Coating
Authors: Hughes Anthony , Laird James , Ryan Chris , Visser Peter , Terryn Herman , Mol Arjan
Published: July 2017

The distribution and chemical composition of inorganic components of a corrosion-inhibiting primer based on polyurethane is determined using a range of characterisation techniques. The primer consists of a Li2CO3 inhibitor phase, along with other inorganic phases including TiO2, BaSO4 and Mg-(hydr)oxide. The characterisation techniques included particle induced X-ray and γ-ray emission spectroscopies (PIXE and PIGE, respectively) on a nuclear microprobe, as well as SEM/EDS hyperspectral mapping. Of the techniques used, only PIGE was able to directly map the Li distribution, although the distribution of Li2CO3 particles could be inferred from SEM through using backscatter contrast and EDS. Characterisation was also performed on a primer coating that had undergone leaching in a neutral salt spray test for 500 h. Overall, it was found that Li2CO3 leaching resulted in a uniform depletion zone near the surface, but also much deeper local depletion, which is thought to be due to the dissolution of clusters of Li2CO3 particles that were connected to the external surface/electrolyte interface.
The Dispersion Tolerance of Micro/Nano Particle in Polydimethylsiloxane and Its Influence on the Properties of Fouling Release Coatings Based on Polydimethylsiloxane
Authors: Ba Miao , Zhang Zhanping , Qi Yuhong
Published: July 2017

Particles can be used to improve the mechanical properties of fouling release coatings based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). In this study, coatings were prepared by high speed stirring using seven types of particles, with different particle size from nanometer to micrometer. The influence of specific surface area of the particles on the dispersion tolerance was investigated. The results showed that the dispersion tolerance of particles in PDMS decreased with the increase in specific surface area of the particle, and for nano particles, the factor most affecting the dispersion tolerance was the specific surface area of agglomerate particle. Subsequently, the surface properties, mechanical properties, and biofilm adhesion assay of coatings were investigated. Results indicated that surface roughness increased with the increase of dispersion tolerance. Surface roughness of samples improved the hydrophobicity of samples, yet the polar chemical group of nano silica and fumed silica reduced the hydrophobicity of samples. Further, particles could enhance the mechanical properties of coating, especially nano particles. Compared to the coating without particle, biofilm adhesion performance of coating with particles decreased, which was determined by the increase of the elastic modulus and surface roughness of coatings.
Total-Factor Energy Efficiency (TFEE) Evaluation on Thermal Power Industry with DEA, Malmquist and Multiple Regression Techniques
Authors: Liu Jin-Peng , Yang Qian-Ru , He Lin
Published: July 2017

Under the background of a new round of power market reform, realizing the goals of energy saving and emission reduction, reducing the coal consumption and ensuring the sustainable development are the key issues for thermal power industry. With the biggest economy and energy consumption scales in the world, China should promote the energy efficiency of thermal power industry to solve these problems. Therefore, from multiple perspectives, the factors influential to the energy efficiency of thermal power industry were identified. Based on the economic, social and environmental factors, a combination model with Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Malmquist index was constructed to evaluate the total-factor energy efficiency (TFEE) in thermal power industry. With the empirical studies from national and provincial levels, the TFEE index can be factorized into the technical efficiency index (TECH), the technical progress index (TPCH), the pure efficiency index (PECH) and the scale efficiency index (SECH). The analysis showed that the TFEE was mainly determined by TECH and PECH. Meanwhile, by panel data regression model, unit coal consumption, talents and government supervision were selected as important indexes to have positive effects on TFEE in thermal power industry. In addition, the negative indexes, such as energy price and installed capacity, were also analyzed to control their undesired effects. Finally, considering the analysis results, measures for improving energy efficiency of thermal power industry were discussed widely, such as strengthening technology research and design (R&D), enforcing pollutant and emission reduction, distributing capital and labor rationally and improving the government supervision. Relative study results and suggestions can provide references for Chinese government and enterprises to enhance the energy efficiency level.
Student Perceptions and Acceptance of Mobile Technology in an Undergraduate Nursing Program
Authors: George Tracy P. , DeCristofaro Claire , Murphy Pamela F. , Sims Archie
Published: July 2017

Mobile technology allows healthcare students to access current evidence-based resources. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the student experience of implementing point-of-care (POC) smartphone applications in a first-semester undergraduate nursing program. Teaching methods included using case studies in the laboratory to familiarize students with the apps. At community screening sites, evidence-based guidelines were referenced when students discussed screening results with patients. Surveys were administered prior to implementing this innovation and after the students utilized the apps in direct patient interactions. Survey results were analyzed to evaluate student perceptions and acceptance of mobile technology. Students felt that healthcare smartphone apps were a helpful and convenient way to obtain evidence-based clinical information pertinent to direct care settings. Over 90% of students planned to continue using healthcare smartphone apps. In conclusion, healthcare smartphone apps are a way for students to become comfortable accessing evidence-based clinical resources. It is important to encourage students to use these resources early in the curriculum. Community screenings are an independent health promotion activity which assists in the attainment of health equity and fosters nursing leadership.
Collaborative Geodesign and Spatial Optimization for Fragmentation-Free Land Allocation
Authors: Xie Yiqun , Runck Bryan , Shekhar Shashi , Kne Len , Mulla David , Jordan Nicolas , Wiringa Peter
Published: July 2017

Demand for agricultural food production is projected to increase dramatically in the coming decades, putting at risk our clean water supply and prospects for sustainable development. Fragmentation-free land allocation (FF-LA) aims to improve returns on ecosystem services by determining both space partitioning of a study area and choice of land-use/land-cover management practice (LMP) for each partition under a budget constraint. In the context of large-scale industrialized food production, fragmentation (e.g., tiny LMP patches) discourages the use of modern farm equipment (e.g., 10- to 20-m-wide combine harvesters) and must be avoided in the allocation. FF-LA is a computationally challenging NP-hard problem. We introduce three frameworks for land allocation planning, namely collaborative geodesign, spatial optimization and a hybrid model of the two, to help stakeholders resolve the dilemma between increasing food production capacity and improving water quality. A detailed case study is carried out at the Seven Mile Creek watershed in the midwestern US. The results show the challenges of generating near-optimal solutions through collaborative geodesign, and the potential benefits of spatial optimization in assisting the decision-making process.
In Vitro Preservation of Transgenic Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Plants Overexpressing the Stress-Related SlAREB1 Transcription Factor
Authors: Al-Abdallat Ayed , Shibli Rida , Akash Muhanad , Rabbaa Manar , Al-Qudah Tamara
Published: July 2017

In vitro preservation of transgenic tomato lines overexpressing the stress-responsive transcription factor SlAREB1 was studied by using slow growth and cryopreservation techniques. Slow growth preservation was performed by using different concentrations of sucrose (0, 100, 200, 300 mm) and abscisic acid (0, 4, 8, 12 μm) in Murashige and Skoog (MS) media, while cryopreservation was conducted by using encapsulation dehydration, V-cryoplates and seeds. Significant differences were observed between tested lines grown on MS media supplemented with 200 mm sucrose where transgenic lines overexpressing SlAREB1 showed improved growth when compared with negative control. The addition of abscisic acid (ABA) to the preservation media affected negatively transgenic lines growth and development when compared with ABA-free media. In encapsulation dehydration, non-cryopreserved transgenic lines overexpressing SlAREB1 pretreated in 0.8 M sucrose for 1 day and subjected to different dehydration periods showed significantly higher survival percentages when compared with negative control. For V-cryoplates technique, cryopreserved transgenic lines overexpressing SlAREB1 treated in 0.3 M sucrose for 3 days with or without cold acclimatization showed significantly higher survival percentages when compared with the negative control. Seed cryopreservation was performed successfully with a clear reduction in germination percentage in transgenic lines overexpressing high levels of SlAREB1. In conclusion, transgenic tomato lines overexpressing SlAREB1 were found to improve tolerance against different abiotic stresses associated with different in vitro preservation protocols.
A Membrane-Fusion Model That Exploits a β-to-α Transition in the Hydrophobic Domains of Syntaxin 1A and Synaptobrevin 2
Authors: Gundersen Cameron
Published: July 2017

Parallel zippering of the SNARE domains of syntaxin 1A/B, SNAP-25, and VAMP/synaptobrevin 2 is widely regarded as supplying the driving force for exocytotic events at nerve terminals and elsewhere. However, in spite of intensive research, no consensus has been reached concerning the molecular mechanism by which these SNARE proteins catalyze membrane fusion. As an alternative to SNARE-based models, a scenario was developed in which synaptotagmin 1 (or, 2) can serve as a template to guide lipid movements that underlie fast, synchronous exocytosis at nerve terminals. This “dyad model” advanced a novel proposal concerning the membrane disposition of the palmitoylated, cysteine-rich region of these synaptotagmins. Unexpectedly, it now emerges that a similar principle can be exploited to reveal how the hydrophobic, carboxyl-terminal domains of syntaxin 1A and synaptobrevin 2 can perturb membrane structure at the interface between a docked synaptic vesicle and the plasma membrane. These “β-to-α transition” models will be compared and contrasted with other proposals for how macromolecules are thought to intervene to drive membrane fusion.
Suitable Specimen Types for Newborn Biochemical Screening-A Summary
Authors: Hall Kate
Published: July 2017

Newborn biochemical screening has been in place in many countries for over fifty years initially testing dried skin puncture whole blood spotted on collection paper (DBS) or urine for phenylalanine or phenylketones to identify phenylketonuria. Countries wishing to commence newborn screening need to consider which type of specimen will provide a satisfactory specimen and matrix for testing for disorders relevant to their population, is acceptable to parents and can be readily transported to the analytical or laboratory facility without significant degradation. Whilst DBSs have largely become the specimen of choice they may not be applicable to all cultures and infrastructures. The majority of disorders appropriate to be identified in the newborn period can be detected in DBSs taken shortly after birth. Some are also detectable in cord blood or urine, some are not. Most disorders have an ideal and often different time window of age for identification in relation to treatment for optimum outcome. When embarking on newborn screening for the first time or in expanding what is already in place, it is important that the disorders considered are evaluated against the Wilson and Jungner criteria for population screening. A brief overview of specimen types including urine, cord blood and DBSs with some of their advantages and limitations is provided in this review to assist in decision-making.
Evaluation of VoIP QoS Performance in Wireless Mesh Networks
Authors: Meeran Mohammad , Annus Paul , Alam Muhammad , Moullec Yannick
Published: July 2017

The main focus of this research article is the evaluation of selected voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) solutions in wireless mesh network (WMN) scenarios. While WMNs have self-healing, self-forming, and dynamic topology features, they still pose challenges for the implementation of multimedia applications such as voice in various scenarios. Therefore, various solutions to make WMN more suitable for VoIP application have been proposed in the scientific literature. In this work, we have extensively explored a set of applicable scenarios by conducting experiments by means of a network simulator. The following scenarios were selected as the most representatives for performance evaluation: first responders, flooded village, remote village, and platoon deployment. Each selected scenario has been studied under six sub-scenarios corresponding to various combinations of the IEEE 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11s, and 802.11e standards; the G.711 and G.729 codecs; and the ad hoc on demand distance vector (AODV) and hybrid wireless mesh protocol (HWMP) routing protocols. The results in terms of quality of service (measured with the mean opinion score rating scale), supported by the analysis of delay, jitter and packet loss, show that 802.11g integration with both VoIP codecs and AODV routing protocol results in better VoIP performance as compared to most other scenarios. In case of 802.11g integration with 802.11s, VoIP performance decreases as compared to the other sub-scenarios without 802.11s. The results also show that 802.11n integration with 802.11e decreases VoIP performance in larger deployments. We conclude the paper with some recommendations in terms of combinations of those standards and protocols with a view to achieve a higher quality of service for the given scenarios.
FGFs Treatment on Amputated Lizard Limbs Stimulate the Regeneration of Long Bones, Opening New Avenues for Limb Regeneration in Amniotes: A Morphological Study
Authors: Alibardi Lorenzo
Published: July 2017

Previous studies indicated that Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs) are present during tail and early limb regeneration in lizards, but FGFs disappear in the limb that turns into a scar and does not regenerate at 25–40 days post-amputation. Based on these indications, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of administered FGFs on limb regeneration in lizards by injections of FGF1–2 into amputated hind-limbs that were studied between 40 and 70 days post-amputation. Outgrowths of 2.0 to 3.5 mm were produced but they did not develop an autopodium during this period. The skin remained most un-scaled, resembling that of a tail blastema. Four hours before sacrifice, the animals were injected with 5BrdU to study cell proliferation using microscopic and immunofluorescent methods. Histological examination of the outgrowths at 40–70 days of regeneration showed the presence a rod of cartilage (femur), or partially or completely sub-divided into two parts likely corresponding to a tibia and fibula. The regenerated cartilage was in continuity with the transected long bones and was surrounded by a perichondrium and a dense connective tissue, sparse nerves while muscles were reduced or absent. Qualitative observations on 5BrdU-immunolabeling indicated that most proliferating cells were present in the apical wound epidermis, the apical-most perichondrium and in the regenerating scales at 40–60 days post-amputation, but decreased at 70 days. Few 5BrdU-labeled cells were seen in other tissues, including in the regenerated cartilages. The present study indicates that FGF1-2 treatment in lizards mainly stimulate cartilage regeneration and the formation of a thick epidermis with an Apical Epidermal Peg, the epidermal micro-region that favors regeneration. In summary, these results suggest that FGFs treatments on amputated limbs could also be attempted in others amniotes, including mammals. However FGFs are not capable to induce an autopodium, which requires further signaling factors for its formation.
Robust Parameter Design of Derivative Optimization Methods for Image Acquisition Using a Color Mixer
Authors: Kim HyungTae , Cho KyeongYong , Kim Jongseok , Jin KyungChan , Kim SeungTaek
Published: July 2017

A tuning method was proposed for automatic lighting (auto-lighting) algorithms derived from the steepest descent and conjugate gradient methods. The auto-lighting algorithms maximize the image quality of industrial machine vision by adjusting multiple-color light emitting diodes (LEDs)—usually called color mixers. Searching for the driving condition for achieving maximum sharpness influences image quality. In most inspection systems, a single-color light source is used, and an equal step search (ESS) is employed to determine the maximum image quality. However, in the case of multiple color LEDs, the number of iterations becomes large, which is time-consuming. Hence, the steepest descent (STD) and conjugate gradient methods (CJG) were applied to reduce the searching time for achieving maximum image quality. The relationship between lighting and image quality is multi-dimensional, non-linear, and difficult to describe using mathematical equations. Hence, the Taguchi method is actually the only method that can determine the parameters of auto-lighting algorithms. The algorithm parameters were determined using orthogonal arrays, and the candidate parameters were selected by increasing the sharpness and decreasing the iterations of the algorithm, which were dependent on the searching time. The contribution of parameters was investigated using ANOVA. After conducting retests using the selected parameters, the image quality was almost the same as that in the best-case parameters with a smaller number of iterations.
Toward the Fabrication of Advanced Nanofiltration Membranes by Controlling Morphologies and Mesochannel Orientations of Hexagonal Lyotropic Liquid Crystals
Authors: Wang Guang , Garvey Christopher , Zhao Han , Huang Kang , Kong Lingxue
Published: July 2017

Water scarcity has been recognized as one of the major threats to human activity, and, therefore, water purification technologies are increasingly drawing attention worldwide. Nanofiltration (NF) membrane technology has been proven to be an efficient and cost-effective way in terms of the size and continuity of the nanostructure. Using a template based on hexagonal lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) and partitioning monomer units within this structure for subsequent photo-polymerisation presents a unique path for the fabrication of NF membranes, potentially producing pores of uniform size, ranging from 1 to 5 nm, and large surface areas. The subsequent orientation of this pore network in a direction normal to a flat polymer film that provides ideal transport properties associated with continuous pores running through the membrane has been achieved by the orientation of hexagonal LLCs through various strategies. This review presents the current progresses on the strategies for structure retention from a hexagonal LLCs template and the up-to-date techniques used for the reorientation of mesochanels for continuity through the whole membrane.
3D Printing and Bioprinting in MEMS Technology
Authors: Chua Chee Kai , Yeong Wai Yee , An Jia
Published: July 2017

3D printing and bioprinting have advanced significantly in printing resolution in recent years, which presents a great potential for fabricating small and complex features suitable for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) with new functionalities. This special issue aims to give a glimpse into the future of this research field.
Effects of K11R and G31P Mutations on the Structure and Biological Activities of CXCL8: Solution Structure of Human CXCL8(3-72)K11R/G31P
Authors: Cheng Hsi-Tsung , Yu Hui-Yuan , Gordon John , Li Fang , Cheng Jya-Wei
Published: July 2017

The ELR-CXC chemokines are important to neutrophil inflammation in many acute and chronic diseases. Among them, CXCL8 (interleukin-8, IL-8), the expression levels of which are elevated in many inflammatory diseases, binds to both the CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptors with high affinity. Recently, an analogue of human CXCL8, CXCL8(3–72)K11R/G31P (hG31P) has been developed. It has been demonstrated that hG31P is a high affinity antagonist for both the CXCR1 and CXCR2. Herein, we have determined the solution structure and the CXCR1 N-terminal peptide binding sites of hG31P by NMR spectroscopy. We have found that the displacement within the tertiary structure of the 30 s loop and the N-terminal region and more specifically change of the loop conformation (especially H33), of hG31P may affect its binding to the CXCR1 receptor and thereby inhibit human neutrophil chemotactic responses induced by ELR-CXC chemokines. Our results provide a structural basis for future clinical investigations of this CXCR1/CXCR2 receptor antagonist and for the further development of CXCL8 based antagonists.
Exploration of the 3D World on the Internet Using Commodity Virtual Reality Devices
Authors: Nguyen Minh , Tran Huy , Le Huy
Published: July 2017

This article describes technical basics and applications of graphically interactive and online Virtual Reality (VR) frameworks. It automatically extracts and displays left and right stereo images from the Internet search engines, e.g., Google Image Search. Within a short waiting time, many 3D related results are returned to the users regarding aligned left and right stereo photos; these results are viewable through VR glasses. The system automatically filters different types of available 3D data from redundant pictorial datasets on the public networks (the Internet). To reduce possible copyright issues, only the search for images that are “labelled for reuse” is performed; meaning that the obtained pictures can be used for any purpose, in any area, without being modified. The system then automatically specifies if the picture is a side-by-side stereo pair, an anaglyph, a stereogram, or just a “normal” 2D image (not optically 3D viewable). The system then generates a stereo pair from the collected dataset, to seamlessly display 3D visualisation on State-of-the-art VR devices such as the low-cost Google Cardboard, Samsung Gear VR or Google Daydream. These devices are used to provide an immediate, controllable 3D display. In this article, we propose an image type classification technique that dynamically extracts co-aligned stereo pairs with rich 3D visualisation to VR viewers. This system is portable, simple to set up and operate. From some initial experiment results; our system is shown to be relatively fast, accurate, and easy to implement. With such system, Internet users all over theWorld could easily visualise millions of real life stereo datasets publicly available on the Internet; which are believed to be useful for VR testing and learning purposes.
Synergistic Interplay between Curcumin and Polyphenol-Rich Foods in the Mediterranean Diet: Therapeutic Prospects for Neurofibromatosis 1 Patients
Authors: Esposito Teresa , Schettino Carla , Polverino Paola , Allocca Salvatore , Adelfi Laura , D’Amico Alessandra , Capaldo Guglielmo , Varriale Bruno , Di Salle Anna , Peluso Gianfranco , Sorrentino Giuseppe , Lus Giacomo , Sampaolo Simone , Di Iorio Giuseppe , Melone Mariarosa
Published: July 2017

Neurofibromas are the hallmark lesions in Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1); these tumors are classified as cutaneous, subcutaneous and plexiform. In contrast to cutaneous and subcutaneous neurofibromas, plexiform neurofibromas can grow quickly and progress to malignancy. Curcumin, a turmeric-derived polyphenol, has been shown to interact with several molecular targets implicated in carcinogenesis. Here, we describe the impact of different dietary patterns, namely Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) compared to the Western diet (WesDiet), both with or without curcumin, on NF1 patients’ health. After six months, patients adopting a traditional MedDiet enriched with 1200 mg curcumin per day (MedDietCurcumin) presented a significant reduction in the number and volume of cutaneous neurofibromas; these results were confirmed in subsequent evaluations. Notably, in one patient, a large cranial plexiform neurofibroma exhibited a reduction in volume (28%) confirmed by Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Conversely, neither unenriched MedDiet nor WesDiet enriched with curcumin exhibited any significant positive effect. We hypothesize that the combination of a polyphenol-rich Mediterranean diet and curcumin was responsible for the beneficial effect observed on NF1. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first experience with curcumin supplementation in NF1 patients. Our report suggests that an integrated nutritional approach may effectively aid in the management of NF1.
The Paradox of Ingestion of Dietary Cholesterol in “Vegans”—Reply
Authors: Clarys Peter , Deliens Tom , Huybrechts Inge , Deriemaeker Peter , Vanaelst Barbara , De Keyzer Willem , Hebbelinck Marcel , Mullie Patrick
Published: July 2017

In a comment on several articles on the vegan dietary pattern, Antoniazzi & Acosta-Navarro (2017) mentioned the paradox of the presence of dietary cholesterol as a nutritional component in the analysis of the vegan dietary pattern [1]. [...]
Multiple Functions of D-α-Tocopherol Polyethylene Glycol 1000 Succinate (TPGS) as Curcumin Nanoparticle Stabilizer: In Vivo Kinetic Profile and Anti-Ulcerative Colitis Analysis in Animal Model
Authors: Rachmawati Heni , Pradana Aditya , Safitri Dewi , Adnyana I
Published: July 2017

This study was conducted to evaluate the potential benefit of particle reduction down to nanoscale on curcumin, a unique natural active compound facing therapeutic problems due to low solubility and permeability. In addition, the presence of TPGS as a surfactant for multiple functions on curcumin nanoparticle was addressed. Observation was focused on bioavailability enhancement after oral administration and local anti-inflammatory improvement after rectal dosing. Nanonization of curcumin was performed using an up-scalable top down method. Specific animal models were used to study the in vivo kinetic profile and the biological activity of curcumin nanoparticle, compared with curcumin powder. d-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS)-stabilized curcumin nanoparticle was prepared through homogenization with high pressure of the 1500 bar. An in vivo study was performed after oral administration of the preparations to male healthy Wistar rats, to monitor the plasma kinetic profile of curcumin. The biological activity study was conducted after rectal administration of the preparations in Wistar rats induced by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid to develop ulcerative colitis. The curcumin nanoparticle with a size of approximately 200 nm was successfully produced and revealed a better in vivo kinetic profile over the larger size of curcumin mixed with TPGS, with bioavailability (AUC0-∞) that was accounted for seven-fold. In addition, the TPGS-stabilized curcumin nanoparticle demonstrated a superior local anti-inflammatory effect in ulcerative colitis, indicated by the shifting of observed parameters close to the healthy status. The tremendously improved anti-inflammatory effect of the TPGS-stabilized curcumin nanoparticle was found with a very low dose. Reducing the particle size of curcumin down to ~200 nm with the presence of TPGS seems to be a promising approach to improving the therapeutic value of curcumin.
The Class of (p,q)-spherical Distributions with an Extension of the Sector and Circle Number Functions
Authors: Richter Wolf-Dieter
Published: July 2017

For evaluating the probabilities of arbitrary random events with respect to a given multivariate probability distribution, specific techniques are of great interest. An important two-dimensional high risk limit law is the Gauss-exponential distribution whose probabilities can be dealt with based on the Gauss–Laplace law. The latter will be considered here as an element of the newly-introduced family of ( p , q ) -spherical distributions. Based on a suitably-defined non-Euclidean arc-length measure on ( p , q ) -circles, we prove geometric and stochastic representations of these distributions and correspondingly distributed random vectors, respectively. These representations allow dealing with the new probability measures similarly to with elliptically-contoured distributions and more general homogeneous star-shaped ones. This is demonstrated by the generalization of the Box–Muller simulation method. In passing, we prove an extension of the sector and circle number functions.
Mapping of Aedes albopictus Abundance at a Local Scale in Italy
Authors: Baldacchino Frédéric , Marcantonio Matteo , Manica Mattia , Marini Giovanni , Zorer Roberto , Delucchi Luca , Arnoldi Daniele , Montarsi Fabrizio , Capelli Gioia , Rizzoli Annapaola , Rosà Roberto
Published: July 2017

Given the growing risk of arbovirus outbreaks in Europe, there is a clear need to better describe the distribution of invasive mosquito species such as Aedes albopictus. Current challenges consist in simulating Ae. albopictus abundance, rather than its presence, and mapping its simulated abundance at a local scale to better assess the transmission risk of mosquito-borne pathogens and optimize mosquito control strategy. During 2014–2015, we sampled adult mosquitoes using 72 BG-Sentinel traps per year in the provinces of Belluno and Trento, Italy. We found that the sum of Ae. albopictus females collected during eight trap nights from June to September was positively related to the mean temperature of the warmest quarter and the percentage of artificial areas in a 250 m buffer around the sampling locations. Maps of Ae. albopictus abundance simulated from the most parsimonious model in the study area showed the largest populations in highly artificial areas with the highest summer temperatures, but with a high uncertainty due to the variability of the trapping collections. Vector abundance maps at a local scale should be promoted to support stakeholders and policy-makers in optimizing vector surveillance and control.
Bathymetry of the Coral Reefs of Weizhou Island Based on Multispectral Satellite Images
Authors: Huang Rongyong , Yu Kefu , Wang Yinghui , Wang Jikun , Mu Lin , Wang Wenhuan
Published: July 2017

Shallow water depth measurements using multispectral images are crucial for marine surveying and mapping. At present, relevant studies either depend on the use of other auxiliary data (such as field water depths or water column data) or contain too many unknown variables, thus making these studies suitable only for images that contain enough visible wavebands. To solve this problem, a Quasi-Analytical Algorithm (QAA) approach is proposed in this paper for estimating the water depths around Weizhou Island by developing a QAA to estimate the diffuse attenuation coefficients and simplifying the parameterization of the bathymetric model. The approach contains an initialization sub-approach and a novel global adjustment sub-approach. It is not only independent of other auxiliary data but also greatly reduces the number of unknowns. Experimental results finally demonstrated that the Root Mean Square Errors (RMSEs) were 1.01 m and 0.77 m for the ZY-3 image and the WorldView-3 (WV-3) image, respectively, so the approach is competitive to other QAA bathymetric methods. Besides, the global adjustment sub-approach was also seen to be superior to common smoothing filters: if the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) is as low as 42, i.e., ZY-3, it can smooth the water depths and improve the accuracies, otherwise can avoid the over-smoothing of water depths.
Minimizing the Residual Topography Effect on Interferograms to Improve DInSAR Results: Estimating Land Subsidence in Port-Said City, Egypt
Authors: Gaber Ahmed , Darwish Noura , Koch Magaly
Published: July 2017

The accurate detection of land subsidence rates in urban areas is important to identify damage-prone areas and provide decision-makers with useful information. Meanwhile, no precise measurements of land subsidence have been undertaken within the coastal Port-Said City in Egypt to evaluate its hazard in relationship to sea-level rise. In order to address this shortcoming, this work introduces and evaluates a methodology that substantially improves small subsidence rate estimations in an urban setting. Eight ALOS/PALSAR-1 scenes were used to estimate the land subsidence rates in Port-Said City, using the Small BAse line Subset (SBAS) DInSAR technique. A stereo pair of ALOS/PRISM was used to generate an accurate DEM to minimize the residual topography effect on the generated interferograms. A total of 347 well distributed ground control points (GCP) were collected in Port-Said City using the leveling instrument to calibrate the generated DEM. Moreover, the eight PALSAR scenes were co-registered using 50 well-distributed GCPs and used to generate 22 interferogram pairs. These PALSAR interferograms were subsequently filtered and used together with the coherence data to calculate the phase unwrapping. The phase-unwrapped interferogram-pairs were then evaluated to discard four interferograms that were affected by phase jumps and phase ramps. Results confirmed that using an accurate DEM (ALOS/PRISM) was essential for accurately detecting small deformations. The vertical displacement rate during the investigated period (2007–2010) was estimated to be −28 mm. The results further indicate that the northern area of Port-Said City has been subjected to higher land subsidence rates compared to the southern area. Such land subsidence rates might induce significant environmental changes with respect to sea-level rise.
Analysis of Rainfall-Induced Landslide on Unsaturated Soil Slopes
Authors: Jeong Sangseom , Lee Kwangwoo , Kim Junghwan , Kim Yongmin
Published: July 2017

This paper investigates rainfall-induced landslides on partially saturated soil slopes using the 2011 Umyeonsan landslides at the center of Seoul, Korea. An integrated analysis of rainfall-induced landslide was carried out through laboratory tests, field tests, and numerical analysis. The results of comprehensive investigations in the Umyeonsan region demonstrate that landslide activity is closely related primarily to rainfall and soil properties and slope geometry, and vegetation. Numerical analysis was also performed to confirm the effect of these factors on landslide occurrence. Special attention was given to rainfall penetration analysis to determine the wetting band depth for shallow and deep-seated slope failure in watershed-scale landslide. The simulated results agree closely with the investigation results, which indicates that the applied method is appropriate for use in the simulation of landslides in unsaturated soils.
Forecasting Based on High-Order Fuzzy-Fluctuation Trends and Particle Swarm Optimization Machine Learning
Authors: Jia Jingyuan , Zhao Aiwu , Guan Shuang
Published: July 2017

Most existing fuzzy forecasting models partition historical training time series into fuzzy time series and build fuzzy-trend logical relationship groups to generate forecasting rules. The determination process of intervals is complex and uncertain. In this paper, we present a novel fuzzy forecasting model based on high-order fuzzy-fluctuation trends and the fuzzy-fluctuation logical relationships of the training time series. Firstly, we compare each piece of data with the data of theprevious day in a historical training time series to generate a new fluctuation trend time series (FTTS). Then, we fuzzify the FTTS into a fuzzy-fluctuation time series (FFTS) according to the up, equal, or down range and orientation of the fluctuations. Since the relationship between historical FFTS and the fluctuation trend of the future is nonlinear, a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is employed to estimate the proportions for the lagged variables of the fuzzy AR (n) model. Finally, we use the acquired parameters to forecast future fluctuations. In order to compare the performance of the proposed model with that of the other models, we apply the proposed method to forecast the Taiwan Stock Exchange Capitalization Weighted Stock Index (TAIEX) time series datasets. The experimental results and the comparison results show that the proposed method can be successfully applied in stock market forecasting or similarkinds of time series. We also apply the proposed method to forecast Shanghai Stock Exchange Composite Index (SHSECI) and DAX30 index to verify its effectiveness and universality.
Merger and Acquisition Target Selection Based on Interval Neutrosophic Multigranulation Rough Sets over Two Universes
Authors: Zhang Chao , Li Deyu , Sangaiah Arun , Broumi Said
Published: July 2017

As a significant business activity, merger and acquisition (M&A) generally means transactions in which the ownership of companies, other business organizations or their operating units are transferred or combined. In a typical M&A procedure, M&A target selection is an important issue that tends to exert an increasingly significant impact on different business areas. Although some research works based on fuzzy methods have been explored on this issue, they can only deal with incomplete and uncertain information, but not inconsistent and indeterminate information that exists universally in the decision making process. Additionally, it is advantageous to solve M&A problems under the group decision making context. In order to handle these difficulties in M&A target selection background, we introduce a novel rough set model by combining interval neutrosophic sets (INSs) with multigranulation rough sets over two universes, called an interval neutrosophic (IN) multigranulation rough set over two universes. Then, we discuss the definition and some fundamental properties of the proposed model. Finally, we establish decision making rules and computing approaches for the proposed model in M&A target selection background, and the effectiveness of the decision making approach is demonstrated by an illustrative case analysis.
Rabies Virus Antibodies from Oral Vaccination as a Correlate of Protection against Lethal Infection in Wildlife
Authors: Moore Susan M. , Gilbert Amy , Vos Ad , Freuling Conrad M. , Ellis Christine , Kliemt Jeannette , Müller Thomas
Published: July 2017

Both cell-mediated and humoral immune effectors are important in combating rabies infection, although the humoral response receives greater attention regarding rabies prevention. The principle of preventive vaccination has been adopted for strategies of oral rabies vaccination (ORV) of wildlife reservoir populations for decades to control circulation of rabies virus in free-ranging hosts. There remains much debate about the levels of rabies antibodies (and the assays to measure them) that confer resistance to rabies virus. In this paper, data from published literature and our own unpublished animal studies on the induction of rabies binding and neutralizing antibodies following oral immunization of animals with live attenuated or recombinant rabies vaccines, are examined as correlates of protection against lethal rabies infection in captive challenge settings. Analysis of our studies suggests that, though serum neutralization test results are expected to reflect in vivo protection, the blocking enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) result at Day 28 was a better predictor of survival. ELISA kits may have an advantage of greater precision and ability to compare results among different studies and laboratories based on the inherent standardization of the kit format. This paper examines current knowledge and study findings to guide meaningful interpretation of serology results in oral baiting monitoring.