bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging features and prognostic factors in fetal and postnatal torcular dural sinus malformations, part II: synthesis of the literature and patient management
Authors: Yang Edward , Storey Armide , Olson Heather E , Soul Janet , Estroff Judy A , Trenor Cameron C , Cooper Benjamin K , Smith Edward R , Orbach Darren B
Published: October 2017

Background

Torcular dural sinus malformations (tDSMs) are described as slow flow dural arteriovenous fistulae with frequently poor outcomes in the neuroangiographic literature, but other etiologies have been proposed in the obstetric literature, where outcomes have been more favorable.

Objective

To review tDSMs reported in the literature of multiple specialties for features that support a common etiology, and to identify key prognostic factors, with an emphasis on tDSM trajectory highlighted in part I.

Methods

Analysis of imaging features and clinical outcome for 77 prenatal and 22 postnatal tDSMs reported in 37 papers from the literature.

Results

In addition to large venous lakes, 36% of prenatal and 96% of postnatal tDSMs had evidence of arterialization, where specifically assessed. For fetal cases, where there was an observable natural history, 97% underwent a spontaneous decrease—13% after an initial increase and only 1 case with subsequent enlargement after a decrease. Prenatal cases had 83% survival (62% with a favorable outcome) whereas postnatal cases had 59% survival (29% favorable). In addition to a postnatal diagnosis, unfavorable features included ventriculomegaly, parenchymal injury, arterialization, and need for intervention. Favorable features included decreasing tDSM size, presence of clot, and increasing clot percentage.

Conclusions

Neonatal and fetal tDSMs have overlapping imaging appearances, suggesting a common etiology, where neonatal tDSMs represent those rare fetal tDSMs that do not undergo spontaneous regression and have a propensity for worse outcomes. Decrease in tDSM size is a critical observation when managing a tDSM because it is generally irreversible and associated with a favorable outcome.
Nutrition and Exercise Rehabilitation in Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (NERO): a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mandal Swapna , Suh Eui-Sik , Harding Rachel , Vaughan-France Anna , Ramsay Michelle , Connolly Bronwen , Bear Danielle E , MacLaughlin Helen , Greenwood Sharlene A , Polkey Michael I , Elliott Mark , Chen Tao , Douiri Abdel , Moxham John , Murphy Patrick B , Hart Nicholas
Published: October 2017

Background

Respiratory management of obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) focusses on the control of sleep-disordered breathing rather than the treatment of obesity. Currently, there are no data from randomised trials of weight loss targeted rehabilitation programmes for patients with OHS.

Intervention

A 3-month multimodal hybrid inpatient–outpatient motivation, exercise and nutrition rehabilitation programme, in addition to non invasive ventilation (NIV), would result in greater per cent weight loss compared with standard care.

Methods

A single-centre pilot randomised controlled trial allocated patients to either standard care or standard care plus rehabilitation. Primary outcome was per cent weight loss at 12 months with secondary exploratory outcomes of weight loss, exercise capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) at the end of the rehabilitation programme to assess the intervention effect.

Results

Thirty-seven patients (11 male, 59.8±12.7 years) with a body mass index of 51.1±7.7 kg/m2were randomised. At 12 months, there was no between-group difference in per cent weight loss (mean difference −5.9% (95% CI −14.4% to 2.7%; p=0.17)). At 3 months, there was a greater per cent weight loss (mean difference −5% (95% CI −8.3% to −1.4%; p=0.007)), increased exercise capacity (6 min walk test 60 m (95% CI 29.5 to 214.5) vs 20 m (95% CI 11.5 to 81.3); p=0.036) and HRQL (mean difference SF-36 general health score (10 (95% CI 5 to 21.3) vs 0 (95% CI −5 to 10); p=0.02)) in the rehabilitation group.

Conclusion

In patients with OHS, a 3-month comprehensive rehabilitation programme, in addition to NIV, resulted in improved weight loss, exercise capacity and QOL at the end of the rehabilitation period, but these effects were not demonstrated at 12 months, in part, due to the limited retention of patients at 12 months.

Trial registration number

Pre-results;NCT01483716.
The changing nicotine products landscape: time to outlaw sales of combustible tobacco products?
Authors: Hefler Marita
Published: October 2017

Combustible tobacco products are unique both for the extraordinary harm they cause, and the fact that more than 50 years after these harms became known, they continue to be widely and legally available globally. However, the rapid evolution of the nicotine product marketplace in recent years warrants a re-assessment of the viability of phasing out commercial sales of combustible tobacco, and presents an opportunity to end the exceptionalism of combustible tobacco being permitted for sale.
Integration of linear scheduling method and the critical chain project management
Authors: Salama Tarek , Salah Ahmad , Moselhi Osama
Published: October 2017

Integration of repetitive and non-repetitive scheduling methods utilizes the merits and unique features of those methods. This paper presents a new scheduling method for repetitive projects that integrates linear scheduling (LSM) and critical chain project management (CCPM) methods. The proposed method introduces a framework for scheduling of repetitive projects; accounting for constraints of resources continuity and uncertainties associated with activity durations. It introduces a new buffer, named resource conflict buffer (RCB) to account for delays that may occur due to conflict in controlling resources among successor and predecessor activities. The developed method provides a systematic procedure for identifying several critical chains to replace the visual identification method that is currently used in linear scheduling. The features of the proposed method are illustrated in a case example for scheduling of repetitive projects using an integration of LSM and CCPM scheduling techniques. A discussion of results is performed and conclusions are drawn to highlight the features and capabilities of the proposed method.
On physical applications of one- and two-dimensional topological objects with fractal dimension
Authors: Gladkov S.O. , Bogdanova S.B. , Vestyak A.V.
Published: October 2017

In this paper, the heat transfer coefficient of a body with a fractal surface, having the fractal dimension connecting with the fractal dimension of some body, as well as resistance to a current of fluid flowing normal to such body, is shown. It is noted that with an end flow of such flat bodies, by virtue of their fractal perimeter, the side resistive force will have the fractal dimension and contribute significantly to the total resistive force acting on any similar structure. The dependence of the resistance force of the Reynolds number was calculated and given graphic illustration. It is noted that the result can be used in medicine in the diagnosis of eye diseases, as well as in marine applications.
The effects of climate on annual variation in reproductive output in Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina)
Authors: Hedrick A.R. , Klondaris H.M. , Corichi L.C. , Dreslik M.J. , Iverson J.B.
Published: October 2017

Reptiles are highly dependent on climatic patterns to regulate their behavior and physiology, and studies of the effects of climate on the biology of organisms are increasingly important given expected climate change. Our study examined the effects of climate variation over 15 of the 26 years between 1990 and 2015 on the reproductive output of the Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina (Linnaeus, 1758)). Egg mass, clutch size, and clutch mass (relative to body size) were significantly higher in years following warmer temperatures in September and October of the year before reproduction, but not related to temperatures in April and May just before reproduction. Of the above life-history traits, egg mass varied the least across years, and after warm autumns small turtles (225–285 mm carapace length) increased clutch mass by increasing clutch size but not egg mass. In contrast, under the same conditions, large turtles increased clutch mass by increasing egg mass but not clutch size. Our data suggest optimal egg mass may vary with female size. Climate change may already have impacted reproductive output in Snapping Turtles at the site because temperatures during September and October have increased about 0.5 °C each decade for the last 45 years.
Reheating in constant-roll F(R) gravity
Authors: Oikonomou V. K.
Published: October 2017

In this work, we address the reheating issue in the context of F(R) gravity, for theories that the inflationary era does not obey the slow-roll condition but the constant-roll condition is assumed. As it is known, the reheating era takes place after the end of the inflationary era, so we investigate the implications of a constant-roll inflation era on the reheating era. We quantify our considerations by calculating the reheating temperature for the constant-roll R2 model and we compare to the standard reheating temperature in the context of F(R) gravity. As we demonstrate, the new reheating temperature may differ from the standard one, and in addition, we show how the reheating era may restrict the constant-roll era by constraining the constant-roll parameter. However, due to the observational constraints on the constant-roll parameter, no large deviations from the slow-roll picture occur.
TurtleEditor: A Web-Based RDF Editor to Support Distributed Ontology Development on Repository Hosting Platforms
Authors: Petersen Niklas , Similea Alexandra , Lange Christoph , Lohmann Steffen
Published: October 2017

Ontologies are increasingly being developed on web-based repository hosting platforms such as GitHub. Accordingly, there is a demand for ontology editors which can be easily connected to the hosted repositories. TurtleEditor is a web-based RDF editor that provides this capability and supports the distributed development of ontologies on repository hosting platforms. It offers features such as syntax checking, syntax highlighting, and auto completion, along with a SPARQL endpoint to query the ontology. Furthermore, TurtleEditor integrates a visual editing view that allows for the graphical manipulation of the RDF graph and includes some basic clustering functionality. The text and graph views are constantly synchronized so that all changes to the ontology are immediately propagated and the views are updated accordingly. The results of a user study and performance tests show that TurtleEditor can indeed be effectively used to support the distributed development of ontologies on repository hosting platforms.
C-SWRL: A Unique Semantic Web Framework for Reasoning Over Stream Data
Authors: Jajaga Edmond , Ahmedi Lule
Published: October 2017

The synergy of Data Stream Management Systems and Semantic Web applications has steered towards a new paradigm known as Stream Reasoning. The Semantic Web standards for knowledge base modeling and querying, namely RDF, OWL and SPARQL, has extensively been used by the Stream Reasoning community. However, the Semantic Web rule languages, such as SWRL and RIF, have never been used in stream data applications. Instead, different non-Semantic Web rule systems have been approached. Since RIF is primarily intended for exchanging rules among systems, we focused on SWRL applications with stream data. This proves difficult following the SWRL’s open world semantics. To overcome SWRL’s expressivity issues we propose an infrastructure extension, which will enable SWRL reasoning with stream data. Namely, a query processing system, such as C-SPARQL, was layered under SWRL to support closed-world and time-aware reasoning. Moreover, OWLAPI constructs were utilized to enable non-monotonicity, while SPARQL constructs were used to enable negation as failure. Water quality monitoring was used as a validation domain of the proposed system.
U/Pb dating of geodic calcite: new insights on Western Europe major tectonic events and associated diagenetic fluids
Authors: Pisapia Céline , Deschamps Pierre , Battani Anne , Buschaert Stéphane , Guihou Abel , Hamelin Bruno , Brulhet Jacques
Published: October 2017

This study presents the first application of the U/Pb dating method to highly Pb-depleted diagenetic geodic calcites of the Jurassic formations of the Paris Basin that leads to a reappraisal of the palaeohydrological history of this region. Composite U/Pb ages from multiple geodes, combined with δ
18
O analyses, reveal two main phases of diagenetic fluid circulations linked with major regional tectonic events. Dogger formations recorded a first diagenetic fluid episode at 147.8 ± 3.8 Ma, i.e. at the very beginning of the emersion of the basin during the Tithonian period and 30 Ma earlier than previously assumed. δ
18
O results confirmed that most of the calcitic cement phases that closed the porosity of these formations precipitated at the beginning of the Cretaceous period. Oxfordian formations recorded another major meteoric fluid circulation at 33.5 ± 2.8 Ma related to the initial stage of the European Cenozoic Rift System (ECRIS). Consequently, the porosity of the Mesozoic formations of the studied area may have been closed sooner than previously thought, before the main ECRIS rifting phase of Oligocene age. This study shows that U/Pb dating of secondary geodic calcite offers a new powerful way for reconstructing the coupled palaeohydrological and diagenetic history of sedimentary basins.

Supplementary material:
Pb/Pb diagrams,
238
U and
235
U series isochron diagrams and effect of blank correction on U and Pb isotopic compositions and on ages calculation are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3886885
Recycling of rock materials as part of sustainable aggregate production in Norway and Italy
Authors: Dino Giovanna Antonella , Danielsen Svein Willy , Chiappino Claudia , Engelsen Christian J.
Published: October 2017

Resource preservation and increased waste recycling are important for sustainability in Europe. Thus, it is essential to achieve environmentally safe and sound management of quarry waste (QW) at European and national level. Rock materials recycling practice has therefore been studied in Norway and Italy. At present, recycling levels vary and systematic recovery is not common in European countries. Furthermore, QW is often landfilled owing to unclear legislation and a general lack of technical data. It was found that 80 – 90% and 30 – 80% of the quarrying volumes end up as QW in Norway and Italy, respectively. Furthermore, the fine fraction constitutes around 40% of the total production of dimension stone and natural aggregate in Norway. However, continuing project initiatives over the past 5 – 10 years have shown that QW can be used to produce aggregate. In addition, positive economic and environmental effects are likely to be achieved by systematic recycling of QW planned by industries and public authorities. However, no significant incentives for recycling or systematic approaches for local aggregate exploitation exist in Italy and Norway. These need to be developed and implemented to change current practice in a major way.
The deterioration of metamorphic serpentinites used in historical architecture under atmospheric conditions
Authors: Gulotta Davide , Bontempi Elza , Bugini Roberto , Goidanich Sara , Toniolo Lucia
Published: October 2017

The use of dark metamorphic stones in architecture is common through the centuries. Such materials were traditionally employed mainly for decorative purposes, both indoor and outdoor, and for architectural cladding. Unfortunately, after prolonged outdoor exposure their characteristic surface colour tends to fade. In the framework of the pilot conservation site of the Renaissance façade of the Cathedral of Monza (Italy), a thorough study of the features and state of conservation of an example of this lithotype, Oira stone, was conducted. This stone was employed during the 19th century restoration of the façade, and the on-site evaluation of the stone blocks after more than a century of exposure showed a distinctive chromatic alteration. The formation of a fragile superficial layer with scaling and detachments was also observed. Samples of the stone were studied using a multi-analytical approach to identify the deterioration mechanisms involved. The results showed that the colour variation is associated with the chemical alteration of the stone, resulting in the selective leaching of magnesium ions from the phyllosilicate structure of the most external material. At the same time, a surface recrystallization of mainly low-ordered SiO
2
occurred. The role of chemical leaching by atmospheric interaction in stone discoloration was also investigated by laboratory accelerated ageing of serpentinite specimens.
Temporal variations in snow albedo at glaciated upper elevation zone of an Eastern Himalayan river basin
Authors: Chiphang N. , Mishra P. , Bandyopadhyay A. , Bhadra A.
Published: October 2017

Snow albedo is an important climate parameter as it governs the amount of solar energy absorbed by the snow and can be considered a major contributor to the surface radiation budget. The present study deals with the estimation of temporal variation of snow albedo at the upper elevation zone of glaciated Mago Basin of Arunachal Pradesh in eastern Himalaya. Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Daily Snow Products (MOD10A1 and MYD10A1) at 500 m spatial resolution were used. Both the MODIS data for ten years (2003–13) and the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection (ASTER) digital elevation model (DEM) of the study area were downloaded from NASA DAAC of NSIDC. The percentage area under different snow types (dry snow, wet snow, firn and ice) was determined by masking the upper elevation zone of the DEM into the albedo images. The average monthly slopes show a decreasing trend in area (%) of dry snow and wet snow and an increasing trend for firn and ice. Dry snow and wet snow cover percentages were observed to be decreasing, whereas firn and ice cover showed an increasing trend for most of the months. Firn dominated the type of snow, followed by ice then wet snow; the smallest area (%) was that of dry snow for the study period.
Associative pattern recognition for biological regulation data
Authors: Xiao Yiou
Published: October 2017

PhD Dissertation: Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Computer and Information Science and Engineering
Differential localization and anabolic responsiveness of mTOR complexes in human skeletal muscle in response to feeding and exercise
Authors: Hodson Nathan , McGlory Chris , Oikawa Sara Y. , Jeromson Stewart , Song Zhe , Rüegg Markus A. , Hamilton D. Lee , Phillips Stuart M. , Philp Andrew
Published: October 2017

Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) resides as two complexes within skeletal muscle. mTOR complex 1 [mTORC1–regulatory associated protein of mTOR (Raptor) positive] regulates skeletal muscle growth, whereas mTORC2 [rapamycin-insensitive companion of mTOR (Rictor) positive] regulates insulin sensitivity. To examine the regulation of these complexes in human skeletal muscle, we utilized immunohistochemical analysis to study the localization of mTOR complexes before and following protein-carbohydrate feeding (FED) and resistance exercise plus protein-carbohydrate feeding (EXFED) in a unilateral exercise model. In basal samples, mTOR and the lysosomal marker lysosomal associated membrane protein 2 (LAMP2) were highly colocalized and remained so throughout. In the FED and EXFED states, mTOR/LAMP2 complexes were redistributed to the cell periphery [wheat germ agglutinin (WGA)-positive staining] (time effect; P = 0.025), with 39% (FED) and 26% (EXFED) increases in mTOR/WGA association observed 1 h post-feeding/exercise. mTOR/WGA colocalization continued to increase in EXFED at 3 h (48% above baseline) whereas colocalization decreased in FED (21% above baseline). A significant effect of condition ( P = 0.05) was noted suggesting mTOR/WGA colocalization was greater during EXFED. This pattern was replicated in Raptor/WGA association, where a significant difference between EXFED and FED was noted at 3 h post-exercise/feeding ( P = 0.014). Rictor/WGA colocalization remained unaltered throughout the trial. Alterations in mTORC1 cellular location coincided with elevated S6K1 kinase activity, which rose to a greater extent in EXFED compared with FED at 1 h post-exercise/feeding ( P < 0.001), and only remained elevated in EXFED at the 3 h time point ( P = 0.037). Collectively these data suggest that mTORC1 redistribution within the cell is a fundamental response to resistance exercise and feeding, whereas mTORC2 is predominantly situated at the sarcolemma and does not alter localization.
Effects of meal ingestion on intramyocellular ceramide concentrations and fractional de novo synthesis in humans
Authors: Chung Jin Ook , Koutsari Christina , Blachnio-Zablieska Agnieszka Urszula , Hames Kazanna C. , Jensen Michael D.
Published: October 2017

We investigated the effects of meal ingestion on intramyofibrillar (IMF) and subsarcolemmal (SS) ceramide metabolism in volunteers ranging from lean to obese. Thirty-eight women and men underwent a steady-state meal ingestion protocol that included a 6.5-h infusion of [U-13C]palmitate and muscle biopsies 1.5 and 6.5 h after starting the tracer infusion. We measured IMF and SS sphingolipid concentrations and the contribution of plasma palmitate to intramyocellular C16:0 ceramide by use of LC-MS-MS. In response to meal ingestion SS C24 ceramide concentrations, but not C14-C20 concentrations, increased significantly. IMF ceramide concentrations did not change. The increases in SS C24 ceramides were negatively related to parameters of insulin resistance. The fractional contribution of plasma palmitate to intramyocellular C16:0 ceramides in both IMF and SS fractions was inversely related to overweight status (β = –0.432, P = 0.0095 and β = –0.443, P = 0.0058, respectively). These data indicate that meal ingestion has differing effects on SS ceramide subspecies and suggest that the fractional de novo synthesis of intramyocellular ceramide from plasma palmitate in the postprandial condition is reduced in those who are overweight.
High dietary sodium causes dyssynchrony of the renal molecular clock in rats
Authors: Speed Joshua S. , Hyndman Kelly A. , Roth Kaehler , Heimlich Jonathan B. , Kasztan Malgorzata , Fox Brandon M. , Johnston Jermaine G. , Becker Bryan K. , Jin Chunhua , Gamble Karen L. , Young Martin E. , Pollock Jennifer S. , Pollock David M.
Published: October 2017

Dyssynchrony of circadian rhythms is associated with various disorders, including cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The cell autonomous molecular clock maintains circadian control; however, environmental factors that may cause circadian dyssynchrony either within or between organ systems are poorly understood. Our laboratory recently reported that the endothelin (ET-1) B (ETB) receptor functions to facilitate Na+excretion in a time of day-dependent manner. Therefore, the present study was designed to determine whether high salt (HS) intake leads to circadian dyssynchrony within the kidney and whether the renal endothelin system contributes to control of the renal molecular clock. We observed that HS feeding led to region-specific alterations in circadian clock components within the kidney. For instance, HS caused a significant 5.5-h phase delay in the peak expression of Bmal1 and suppressed Cry1 and Per2 expression in the renal inner medulla, but not the renal cortex, of control rats. The phase delay in Bmal1 expression appears to be mediated by ET-1 because this phenomenon was not observed in the ETB-deficient rat. In cultured inner medullary collecting duct cells, ET-1 suppressed Bmal1 mRNA expression. Furthermore, Bmal1 knockdown in these cells reduced epithelial Na+channel expression. These data reveal that HS feeding leads to intrarenal circadian dyssynchrony mediated, in part, through activation of ETBreceptors within the renal inner medulla.
Diuretic state affects ascending thin limb tight junctions
Authors: Sonntag Svenja Rebecca , Ziemens Annalisa , Wulfmeyer Vera Christine , Milatz Susanne , Bleich Markus , Himmerkus Nina
Published: October 2017

The nephron segments in the inner medulla are part of the urine concentrating mechanism. Depending on the diuretic state, they are facing a large range of extracellular osmolality. We investigated whether water homeostasis affects tubular transport and permeability properties in inner medullary descending thin limb (IMdTL) and ascending thin limb (IMaTL). Three experimental groups of rats under different diuretic states were investigated on metabolic cages: waterload, furosemide-induced diuresis, and control (antidiuresis). Urine production and osmolalities reflected the 3-day treatment. To functionally investigate tubular epithelial properties, we performed experiments in freshly isolated inner medullary thin limbs from these animals. Tubular segments were acutely dissected and investigated for trans- and paracellular properties by in vitro perfusion and electrophysiological analysis. IMdTL and IMaTL were distinguished by morphological criteria. We confirmed absence of transepithelial electrogenic transport in thin limbs. Although diffusion potential measurements showed no differences between treatments in IMdTLs, we observed increased paracellular cation selectivity under waterload in IMaTLs. NaCl diffusion potential was −5.64 ± 1.93 mV under waterload, −1.99 ± 1.72 mV under furosemide-induced diuresis, and 0.27 ± 0.40 mV under control. The corresponding permeability ratio PNa/Clwas 1.53 ± 0.21 (waterload), 1.22 ± 0.18 (furosemide-induced diuresis), and 0.99 ± 0.02 (control), respectively. Claudins are main constituents of the tight junction responsible for paracellular selectivity; however, immunofluorescence did not show qualitative differences in claudin 4, 10, and 16 localization. Our results show that IMaTLs change tight junction properties in response to diuretic state to allow adaptation of NaCl reabsorption.
Wearable physiological systems and technologies for metabolic monitoring
Authors: Gao Wei , Brooks George A. , Klonoff David C.
Published: October 2017

Wearable sensors allow continuous monitoring of metabolites for diabetes, sports medicine, exercise science, and physiology research. These sensors can continuously detect target analytes in skin interstitial fluid (ISF), tears, saliva, and sweat. In this review, we will summarize developments on wearable devices and their potential applications in research, clinical practice, and recreational and sporting activities. Sampling skin ISF can require insertion of a needle into the skin, whereas sweat, tears, and saliva can be sampled by devices worn outside the body. The most widely sampled metabolite from a wearable device is glucose in skin ISF for monitoring diabetes patients. Continuous ISF glucose monitoring allows estimation of the glucose concentration in blood without the pain, inconvenience, and blood waste of fingerstick capillary blood glucose testing. This tool is currently used by diabetes patients to provide information for dosing insulin and determining a diet and exercise plan. Similar technologies for measuring concentrations of other analytes in skin ISF could be used to monitor athletes, emergency responders, warfighters, and others in states of extreme physiological stress. Sweat is a potentially useful substrate for sampling analytes for metabolic monitoring during exercise. Lactate, sodium, potassium, and hydrogen ions can be measured in sweat. Tools for converting the concentrations of these analytes sampled from sweat, tears, and saliva into blood concentrations are being developed. As an understanding of the relationships between the concentrations of analytes in blood and easily sampled body fluid increases, then the benefits of new wearable devices for metabolic monitoring will also increase.
Synchronization of Time Delayed Fractional Order Chaotic Financial System
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Cao Jinde , Alsaedi Ahmed , Alsaadi Fuad Eid S.
Published: October 2017

The research on a time delayed fractional order financial chaotic system is a hot issue. In this paper, synchronization of time delayed fractional order financial chaotic system is studied. Based on comparison principle of linear fractional equation with delay, by using a fractional order inequality, a sufficient condition is obtained to guarantee the synchronization of master-slave systems. An example is exploited to show the feasibility of the theoretical results.
A Scientific Decision Framework for Supplier Selection under Interval Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Krishankumar R. , Ravichandran K. S. , Ramprakash R.
Published: October 2017

This paper proposes a new scientific decision framework (SDF) under interval valued intuitionistic fuzzy (IVIF) environment for supplier selection (SS). The framework consists of two phases, where, in the first phase, criteria weights are estimated in a sensible manner using newly proposed IVIF based statistical variance (SV) method and, in the second phase, the suitable supplier is selected using ELECTRE (ELimination and Choice Expressing REality) ranking method under IVIF environment. This method involves three categories of outranking, namely, strong, moderate, and weak. Previous studies on ELECTRE ranking reveal that scholars have only used two categories of outranking, namely, strong and weak, in the formulation of IVIF based ELECTRE, which eventually aggravates fuzziness and vagueness in decision making process due to the potential loss of information. Motivated by this challenge, third outranking category, called moderate, is proposed, which considerably reduces the loss of information by improving checks to the concordance and discordance matrices. Thus, in this paper, IVIF‐ELECTRE (IVIFE) method is presented and popular TOPSIS method is integrated with IVIFE for obtaining a linear ranking. Finally, the practicality of the proposed framework is demonstrated using SS example and the strength of proposed SDF is realized by comparing the framework with other similar methods.
Melatonin as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent Modulating Inflammasome Activation
Authors: Favero Gaia , Franceschetti Lorenzo , Bonomini Francesca , Rodella Luigi Fabrizio , Rezzani Rita
Published: October 2017

Inflammation may be defined as the innate response to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, injury, and metabolic stress; its ultimate function is to restore the physiological homeostatic state. The exact aetiology leading to the development of inflammation is not known, but a combination of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors seems to play an important role in the pathogenesis of many inflammation-related clinical conditions. Recent studies suggest that the pathogenesis of different inflammatory diseases also involves the inflammasomes, intracellular multiprotein complexes that mediate activation of inflammatory caspases thereby inducing the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. Melatonin, an endogenous indoleamine, is considered an important multitasking molecule with fundamental clinical applications. It is involved in mood modulation, sexual behavior, vasomotor control, and immunomodulation and influences energy metabolism; moreover, it acts as an oncostatic and antiaging molecule. Melatonin is an important antioxidant and also a widespread anti-inflammatory molecule, modulating both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in different pathophysiological conditions. This review, first, gives an overview concerning the growing importance of melatonin in the inflammatory-mediated pathological conditions and, then, focuses on its roles and its protective effects against the activation of the inflammasomes and, in particular, of the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Numerical Study on the Seismic Response of Structure with Consideration of the Behavior of Base Mat Uplift
Authors: Wang Guo-Bo , Zhou Xin , Ma Xian-Feng , Wu Jun
Published: October 2017

The foundation might be separated from the supporting soil if the earthquake is big enough, which is known as base mat uplift. This paper proposed a simplified calculation model in which spring element is adopted to simulate the interaction between soil and structure. The load-deformation curve (F-Dcurve) of the spring element can be designated to represent the base mat uplift, in which the pressure can be applied while tensile forces are not allowed. Key factors, such as seismic wave types, seismic wave excitation directions, seismic wave amplitudes, soil shear velocities, structure stiffness, and the ratio of structure height to width (H/B), were considered in the analysis. It is shown that (1) seismic wave type has significant influence on structure response due to different frequency components it contained; (2) the vertical input of seismic wave greatly affected structure response in vertical direction, while it has little impacts in horizontal direction; (3) base mat uplift is easier to take place in soil with higher shear velocity; (4) structureH/Bvalue has complicated influence on base mat uplift. The outcome of this research is assumed to provide some references for the seismic design of the structure due to base mat uplift.
Usefulness of Computed Tomography Image Processing by OsiriX Software in Detecting Wooden and Bamboo Foreign Bodies
Authors: Matsuda Shinpei , Yoshimura Hitoshi , Yoshida Hisato , Ryoke Takashi , Yoshida Takashi , Aikawa Naoyuki , Sano Kazuo
Published: October 2017

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of reconstructed computed tomography (CT) images using OsiriX software in detecting wooden and bamboo foreign bodies. Methods. Four sizes of wet and dry wooden and bamboo foreign bodies were selected to be analyzed. Those in the air and in the head of edible swine were scanned with a multidetector row CT scanner. The images were evaluated with OsiriX software in the bone and the abdomen window setting as unprocessed images. Three-dimensional rendered images assigned colors and opacity by a 16-bit color look-up table (CLUT) editor in OsiriX software were evaluated as processed images. Results. In the unprocessed images, dry and wet foreign bodies in the air were not detected except a part of wet wooden foreign bodies, and all the dry and wet foreign bodies in the swine’s head mimicked air with linear shapes. In the processed images, all the dry and wet foreign bodies in the air were detected clearly, and all the wooden and some of the bamboo foreign bodies in the swine’s head were detected clearly. Conclusions. CT images processed using OsiriX software, especially with a CLUT editor, were useful in detecting wooden and bamboo foreign bodies.
A Novel Active Semisupervised Convolutional Neural Network Algorithm for SAR Image Recognition
Authors: Gao Fei , Yue Zhenyu , Wang Jun , Sun Jinping , Yang Erfu , Zhou Huiyu
Published: October 2017

Convolutional neural network (CNN) can be applied in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) object recognition for achieving good performance. However, it requires a large number of the labelled samples in its training phase, and therefore its performance could decrease dramatically when the labelled samples are insufficient. To solve this problem, in this paper, we present a novel active semisupervised CNN algorithm. First, the active learning is used to query the most informative and reliable samples in the unlabelled samples to extend the initial training dataset. Next, a semisupervised method is developed by adding a new regularization term into the loss function of CNN. As a result, the class probability information contained in the unlabelled samples can be maximally utilized. The experimental results on the MSTAR database demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm despite the lack of the initial labelled samples.
Multistep High-Order Methods for Nonlinear Equations Using Padé-Like Approximants
Authors: Cordero Alicia , Hueso José L. , Martínez Eulalia , Torregrosa Juan R.
Published: October 2017

We present new high-order optimal iterative methods for solving a nonlinear equation, f(x)=0, by using Padé-like approximants. We compose optimal methods of order 4 with Newton’s step and substitute the derivative by using an appropriate rational approximant, getting optimal methods of order 8. In the same way, increasing the degree of the approximant, we obtain optimal methods of order 16. We also perform different numerical tests that confirm the theoretical results.
Influence of Overnight Orthokeratology on Corneal Surface Shape and Optical Quality
Authors: Sun Yuan , Wang Lin , Gao Jing , Yang Mei , Zhao Qi
Published: October 2017

Purpose. To investigate the changes of corneal surface shape and optical quality during orthokeratology. Methods. 49 eyes of 26 patients (10.63 ± 2.02 years old) who underwent overnight orthokeratology for myopia were prospectively examined. The corneal surface shape parameters, including surface regularity index (SRI) and surface asymmetry index (SAI), were attained with an OPD-III SCAN. The higher-order aberrations and higher-order Strehl ratios were calculated under a 3 mm pupil diameter before orthokeratology, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after orthokeratology. A P value of less than 0.05 was statistically significant. Results. Months after orthokeratology, SRI and SAI were both showing a significant increase in comparison with those before orthokeratology (P<0.001). After orthokeratology, for a 3 mm pupil, the higher-order Strehl ratio presented a reduction of 0.217 μm (P<0.001), and the higher-order aberration root mean square (HOA RMS) showed a mean increase of 0.100 μm (P<0.001). There were significant increases in spherical aberration (P<0.001) and coma (P=0.044) after orthokeratology. Trefoil showed a slight reduction at month 6 after orthokeratology, but there was no statistical significance (P=0.722). Conclusion. Overnight orthokeratology for a correction of myopia resulted in a significant improvement in refractive error but increased corneal irregularity and ocular higher-order aberrations, especially in spherical aberration.
Experimental Study of Bilinear Initiating System Based on Hard Rock Pile Blasting
Authors: Miao Yusong , Li Xiaojie , Yan HongHao , Wang Xiaohong , Sun Junpeng
Published: October 2017

It is difficult to use industrial explosives to excavate hard rock and achieve suitable blasting effect due to the low energy utilization rate resulting in large rocks and short blasting footage. Thus, improving the utilization ratio of the explosive energy is important. In this study, a novel bilinear initiation system based on hard rock blasting was proposed to improve the blasting effects. Furthermore, on the basis of the detonation wave collision theory, frontal collision, oblique reflection, and Mach reflection during detonation wave propagation were studied. The results show that the maximum detonation pressure at the Mach reflection point where the incident angle is 46.9° is three times larger than the value of the explosive complete detonation. Then, in order to analyze the crack propagation in different initiation forms, a rock fracture test slot was designed, and the results show that bilinear initiating system can change the energy distribution of explosives. Finally, field experiment was implemented at the hard rock pile blasting engineering, and experimental results show that the present system possesses high explosive energy utilization ratio and low rock fragments size. The results of this study can be used to improve the efficiency in hard rock blasting.
Spatial Kinetics Model of Supercavitating Vehicles Reflecting Conic‐Like Oscillation
Authors: Huang Chuang , Luo Kai , Dang Jianjun , Qin Kan , Li Daijin
Published: October 2017

A spatial kinetics model for supercavitating vehicles including the coupled motion of pitch, yaw, and rolling was presented. Mathematical simulations were performed to investigate dynamic performance of supercavitating vehicles. An intrinsic conic‐like oscillation in the motion of supercavitating vehicles was discovered. A lakebed experiment was carried out to validate the oscillation. Good agreement is achieved between simulation and experiment in terms of the amplitude and frequency of attitude angles. The steady phase difference between the motions in different planes is also accurately captured which is about π/2. The conic‐like oscillation is attributed to the occurrence of the tail‐slap motion in the vertical and horizontal planes and the steady phase difference.
Training Based Channel Estimation for Multitaper GFDM System
Authors: Bandari Shravan Kumar , Vakamulla Venkata Mani , Drosopoulos A.
Published: October 2017

Recent activities in the cellular network world clearly show the need to design new physical layer waveforms in order to meet future wireless requirements. Generalized Frequency Division Multiplexing (GFDM) is one of the leading candidates for 5G and one of its key features is the usage of circular pulse shaping of subcarriers to remove prototype filter transients. Due to the nonorthogonal nature of the conventional GFDM system, inherent interference will affect adversely channel estimation. With Discrete Prolate Spheroidal Sequences (DPSSs) or multitapers as prototype filters an improved orthogonal GFDM system can be developed. In this work, we investigate channel estimation methods for multitaper GFDM (MGFDM) systems with and without Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT). The simulation results are presented using Least Squares (LS) and Minimum Mean Square Error (MMSE) channel estimation (CE) methods. DFT based CE methods provide better estimates of the channel but with an additional computational cost.
A Queuing Network Based Optimization Model for Calculating Capacity of Subway Station
Authors: Pan Hanchuan , Liu Zhigang
Published: October 2017

Capacity of subway station is an important factor to ensure the safety and improve the transportation efficiency. In this paper, based on the M/G/C/C state-dependent queuing model, a probabilistic selection optimization model is proposed to assess the capacity of the station. The goal of the model is to maximize the output rate of the station, and the decision variables of the model are the selection results of the passengers. Finally, this paper takes a subway station of Shanghai Metro as a case study and calculates the optimal selection probability. The proposed model could be used to analyze the average waiting time, congestion probability, and other evaluation indexes; at the same time, it verifies the validity and practicability of the model.
Research on the Vibration Characteristics of a Compounded Periodic Strut Used for Helicopter Cabin Noise Reduction
Authors: Lu Yang , Wang Fengjiao , Ma Xunjun
Published: October 2017

A special periodic strut is developed to reduce the helicopter cabin noise in this paper. The strut exhibits unique dynamic characteristics which can isolate the gearbox vibrations from transferring to the fuselage and radiating noise. Modeling, simulation, and experimental research are carried out to explore its characteristics and performance. A theoretical model of the strut is firstly established, with particular emphasis on correlating the passband and stop band behaviors with the damping and a series of boundary conditions. Then, through simulations, it is shown that both the damping and boundary conditions have significant influences on the stop band, including the beginning and end frequencies and attenuation effects. Based on these analytical simulations, experimental analyses are conducted with the newly developed strut. Inspiring performances are validated under different conditions. Considering that the helicopter vibration in practical applications is much more complex, further experimental investigations are carried out on a helicopter model, which generates prominent gear mesh tones similar to a real helicopter. The experimental results show that the compounded periodic strut can significantly attenuate the vibrations transmitted to the fuselage. Compared with the plain strut, attenuations in excess of 40 dB are measured in the frequency range from 300 to 2000 Hz.
Glucosinolates, Carotenoids, and Vitamins E and K Variation from Selected Kale and Collard Cultivars
Authors: Kim Moo Jung , Chiu Yu-Chun , Ku Kang-Mo
Published: October 2017

Glucosinolates, carotenoids, and fat-soluble vitamins E and K contents were analyzed from various kale and collard cultivars at mature stage. We found a significant difference in these phytonutrients among cultivars. Among kale cultivars, “Beira” and “Olympic Red” were the highest in the total glucosinolate and “Toscano” kale was the highest in total carotenoid content. “Scarlet” kale was highest in tocopherols. For collard, total glucosinolate was the highest in “Top Bunch” while carotenoids were the highest in “Green Glaze.” An accession PI261597 was the highest in phylloquinone. In addition to the total content of each phytonutrient class, their composition differed among cultivars, indicating that each cultivar may have differential regulatory mechanisms for biosynthesis of these phytonutrients. Our result indicates that cultivar selection may play an important role in consumption of kale and collard with greater nutritional benefit. Therefore, the result of this study will provide a more thorough profile of essential and nonessential phytonutrients of kale and collard cultivars for consumers’ choice and for future research on nutritional value of these crops.
Photo-Induced Cell Damage Analysis for Single- and Multifocus Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering Microscopy
Authors: Minamikawa Takeo , Murakami Yoshinori , Matsumura Naokazu , Niioka Hirohiko , Fukushima Shuichiro , Araki Tsutomu , Hashimoto Mamoru
Published: October 2017

In this study, we investigated photo-induced damage to living cells during single- and multifocus excitations for coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) imaging. A near-infrared pulsed laser (709 nm) was used to induce cell damage. We compared the photo-induced cell damage in the single- and the multifocus excitation schemes with the condition to obtain the same CARS signal in the same frame rate. For the evaluation of cell viability, we employed 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) fluorophores that predominantly stained the damaged cells. One- and two-photon fluorescence of DAPI fluorophores were, respectively, excited by an ultraviolet light source and the same near-infrared light source and were monitored to evaluate the cell viability during near-infrared pulsed laser irradiation. We found lower uptake of DAPI fluorophores into HeLa cells during the multifocus excitation compared with the single-focus excitation scheme in both the one- and the two-photon fluorescence examinations. This indicates a reduction of photo-induced cell damage in the multifocus excitation. Our findings suggested that the multifocus excitation scheme is expected to be suitable for CARS microscopy in terms of minimal invasiveness.