bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status of rare exclusiveBmeson decays in 2018
Authors: Albrecht Johannes , Reichert Stefanie , van Dyk Danny
Published: July 2018

This review discusses the present experimental and theoretical status of rare flavor-changing neutral current b-quark decays at the beginning of 2018. It includes a discussion of the experimental situation and details of the currently observed anomalies in measurements of flavor observables, including lepton flavor universality. Progress on the theory side within and beyond the Standard Model theory is also discussed, together with potential New Physics interpretations of the present measurements.
Bjorken sum rule in QCD frameworks with analytic (holomorphic) coupling
Authors: Ayala César , Cvetič Gorazd , Kotikov Anatoly V. , Shaikhatdenov Binur G.
Published: July 2018

We investigate the polarized Bjorken sum rule (BSR) in three approaches to QCD with analytic (holomorphic) coupling: Analytic Perturbation Theory (APT), Two-delta analytic QCD (2[Formula: see text]anQCD) and Three-delta lattice-motivated analytic QCD in the three-loop and four-loop MOM scheme (3l3[Formula: see text]anQCD, 4l3[Formula: see text]anQCD). These couplings do not have unphysical (Landau) singularities, and have finite values when the transferred momentum goes to zero, which allows us to explore the infrared regime. With the exception of APT, these theories at high momenta practically coincide with the underlying perturbative QCD (pQCD) in the same scheme. We apply them in order to verify the Bjorken sum rule within the range of energies available in the data collected by the experimental JLAB collaboration, i.e. [Formula: see text] and compare the results with those obtained by using the perturbative QCD coupling. The results of the new frameworks with respective couplings (2[Formula: see text] and 3[Formula: see text]) are in good agreement with the experimental data for [Formula: see text] already when only one higher-twist term is used. In the low-[Formula: see text] regime [Formula: see text], we use [Formula: see text]PT-motivated expression or an expression motivated by the light-front holography (LFH) QCD used earlier in the literature.
Welding residual stress effect of the fatigue strength at dissimilar material weld between Alloy617 and 12Cr steel
Authors: Hwang Jeong Ho , Lee Ju Hwa , Bae Dong Ho
Published: July 2018

In this study, dissimilar material welding between Alloy617 and 12Cr steel was performed using buttering welding technology on to the 12Cr steel side. Then, the welding residual stress of dissimilar material weld was analyzed by the numerical method and the experimental method, after that, the stress amplitude including the welding residual stress was calculated using a modified Goodman equation.
Dissolution behavior of the Ni substrate and Ni3Sn4 phase in molten lead-free solders
Authors: Yen Y. W. , Lin C. Y. , Yan J. , Chang Y. W. , Wang C. H. , Guo M. H.
Published: July 2018

The dissolution behavior of the Ni substrate and Ni3Sn4 phase was studied in the following molten lead-free solders: Sn, (wt.%) Sn–3.0Ag–0.5Cu (SAC), Sn–0.7Cu (SC), Sn–58Bi (SB) and Sn–9Zn (SZ) at 240[Formula: see text]C, 270[Formula: see text]C and 300[Formula: see text]C. The dissolution rate of the Ni substrate in solder decreased from Sn, SAC, SC, SB, to SZ. The thick Ni5(Zn, Sn)[Formula: see text] phase formed at the SZ/Ni interface hindering the Ni dissolution. Ni3Sn4 phase dissolution rate in molten solder decreased from Sn, SZ, SAC, SC, to SB at 240[Formula: see text]C and SC, Sn, SAC, SZ, to SB at 300[Formula: see text]C. The (Cu, Ni)6Sn5 phase spilling was observed at the SAC/Ni3Sn4 and SC/Ni3Sn4 interfaces. Zn in the SZ solder reacted with the Ni3Sn4 phase to form the (Ni, Sn)5Zn[Formula: see text] phase at the interface.
Adaptive GMM and BP Neural Network Hybrid Method for Moving Objects Detection in Complex Scenes
Authors: Ou Xianfeng , Yan Pengcheng , He Wei , Kim Yong Kwan , Zhang Guoyun , Peng Xin , Hu Wenjing , Wu Jianhui , Guo Longyuan
Published: July 2018

Moving foreground objects detection in complex scenes is a tough job because it requires high recognition accuracy. Adaptive Gaussian mixture model (AGMM) can be used to extract the foreground objects and it shows good performance, however, the detection quality of the foreground objects under complex scenes is not excellent. In this paper, an AGMM and BP neural network hybrid method is proposed, which is used to extract the foreground objects in complex scenes such as, dynamic backgrounds, illumination changes and moving shadows. In this method, an improved BP neural network is used to post-process the images of the foreground objects that are extracted from the AGMM. The neural network has strong robustness by learning the statistical features of the images. Momentum term and adaptive learning rate are added in the BP neural network algorithm to improve the training speed and robustness of the network. The experimental results show that the proposed AGMM and BP neural network hybrid method can extract the complete foreground objects effectively when compared with some other moving objects detection algorithms.
Research on Applications of FastICA Algorithm in the Detection of Dangerous Liquids
Authors: Zhou Dongmei , Qiu Shi , Tan Jiahai , Li Xiaofeng , Chen Chen
Published: July 2018

In the actual environment of security detection, many kinds of liquids often exist in the same detection background, and their dangerous levels are difficult to identify. Therefore, it is very important to research on identifying the dangerous levels of various liquids. The paper establishes the [Formula: see text]-parameter database of tested samples under specific detection environment with free space method. In the actual detection, ultra-wide-band (UWB) centimeter wave is used to measure the [Formula: see text]-parameters of several detected liquids first. Then the fast independent component analysis (FastICA) algorithm is used for unmixing the mixed signal by Newton’s iteration method and the negative entropy maximization search principle. The unmixed signal matches with the sample database adaptively, so the dangerous levels of the detected liquids are identified. Multiple experiments show that FastICA algorithm can reach a matching rate of 95% between water and 90[Formula: see text] gasoline or alcohol and 90[Formula: see text] gasoline, it also can reach a matching rate of around 73% between water and alcohol. This algorithm has a quick response and high reliability for identification of dangerous liquids. FastICA algorithm in this paper is applied for detecting the dangerous liquids for the first time, and it has high application value.
New Method for Bayesian Network Learning
Authors: Benmouna Y. , Benazzouz M. , Chikh M. A. , Mahmoudi S.
Published: July 2018

This paper presents a new method for learning the structure of Bayesian Networks. Broadly speaking, we leverage the Branch and Bound (B&B) to derive the best Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAGs) that describes the structure of the network. Our contribution consists in introducing two main heuristics: the first one allows the selection of the graph that has the best score among those that contain less cycles, the second one eliminates the shortest cycle from the selected graph; it aims to reduce the number of explored nodes. Our experimental study asserts that the suggested proposal improves the results for multiple data sets. These facts are confirmed by the reduction of the computation time and the memory overhead.
Relativistic fluid spheres with Karmarkar condition
Authors: Newton Singh Ksh. , Sarkar Nayan , Rahaman Farook , Deb Debabrata , Pant Neeraj
Published: July 2018

We present a family of relativistic fluid spheres using the Karmarkar criterion along with the Pandey–Sharma condition. Ranges of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for well-behaved solutions depend on the mass and radius of the compact star model. As an example, we have chosen Vela X-1 ([Formula: see text]) for complete analysis of the solutions. For the same star, the well-behaved ranges are [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. However, beyond these limits, either the transversal sound speed becomes imaginary or violates the causality principle. Further, the critical part of our solution is that corresponding to every nonzero positive even value of [Formula: see text] yields zero values of all the physical quantities.
IMPROVEMENT IN CORROSION RESISTANCE OF STAINLESS STEEL FOIL BY GRAPHENE COATING USING THERMAL CHEMICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION
Authors: RUAMMAITREE AKKAWAT , PHOKHARATKUL DISAYUT , NUNTAWONG NOPPADON , WISITSORAAT ANURAT
Published: July 2018

This paper demonstrates the growth of graphene on stainless steel foil by thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Raman spectroscopy confirms that the few-layer graphene with very low deflect can be grown on stainless steel foil. Scanning electron microscope presents that the surface roughness obviously increases after graphene grows on stainless steel resulting in increase in surface area. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy reveals that there is no oxygen on the graphene surface leading to an increase in its electrical conductivity. The results of the electrochemical test indicate that the growth of graphene on stainless steel can increase corrosion resistance and restrain the formation of passive layer which reduces fuel cell efficiency. Four-point probe measurement confirms that the growth of graphene can also considerably reduce the electrical resistance of stainless steel.
The Computational Complexity of Finding a Mixed Berge Equilibrium for a k-Person Noncooperative Game in Normal Form
Authors: Nahhas Ahmad , Corley H. W.
Published: July 2018

The mixed Berge equilibrium (MBE) is an extension of the Berge equilibrium (BE) to mixed strategies. The MBE models mutually support in a [Formula: see text]-person noncooperative game in normal form. An MBE is a mixed-strategy profile for the [Formula: see text] players in which every [Formula: see text] players have mixed strategies that maximize the expected payoff for the remaining player’s equilibrium strategy. In this paper, we study the computational complexity of determining whether an MBE exists in a [Formula: see text]-person normal-form game. For a two-person game, an MBE always exists and the problem of finding an MBE is PPAD-complete. In contrast to the mixed Nash equilibrium, the MBE is not guaranteed to exist in games with three or more players. Here we prove, when [Formula: see text], that the decision problem of asking whether an MBE exists for a [Formula: see text]-person normal-form game is NP-complete. Therefore, in the worst-case scenario there does not exist a polynomial algorithm that finds an MBE unless P=NP.
Modeling Creep Analysis of Thermally Graded Anisotropic Rotating Composite Disc
Authors: Bose Tania , Rattan Minto
Published: July 2018

Mathematical modeling for steady-state creep has been done for an anisotropic disc of aluminium-silicon carbide particulate composite rotating at elevated temperatures under a thermal gradient. Creep modeling and analysis has been done using Hill’s yield criterion for a disc operating under a parabolic distributed temperature and its comparison is made with the disc operating under uniform temperature throughout the radius. The results are expressed graphically in designer friendly manner for the stress and strain rate distributions under a graded temperature field. It can be seen that the parabolic temperature field has a significant effect on the creep behavior of the anisotropic disc. Thus, the temperature gradient effect should be considered while designing the anisotropic rotating disc.
Impulsive Response of Rectangular Metal Sandwich Plate with a Graded Foam Core
Authors: Xiang Chunping , Qin Qinghua , Wang Fangfang , Yu Xuehui , Wang Mingshi , Zhang Jianxun , Wang T. J.
Published: July 2018

An analytical study considering inhomogeneous core compression is conducted to investigate the impulsive response of fully clamped rectangular metal sandwich plate with a graded foam (GF) core. The dynamic compressive properties of GF under impulsive loading are theoretically modeled antecedently. The approximate analytical predictions are achieved for the impulsive response of rectangular sandwich plate with a linear strength distributed GF core along the thickness by using the relevant loci of a new yield criterion. The analytical predictions agree well with the finite element (FE) results and indicate that the sandwich plates with negative gradient design outperform their uniform counterparts in impulsive resistance. The present study provides an insight into understanding the blast resistance of the sandwich structures with inhomogeneous cores.
Study of Transformation Toughening Behavior of an Edge Through Crack in Zirconia Ceramics with the Cohesive Zone Model
Authors: Liu Bo , Liu Nian , Luo Jun , Xiao Zhongmin
Published: July 2018

The transformation toughening behavior of a finite edge through crack in zirconia ceramics is studied with a three-dimensional finite element model. The continuum-based constitutive law of zirconia ceramics is implemented into a user-defined subroutine in ABAQUS to simulate the loading and unloading mechanical response of zirconia ceramics. We have given up the small-scale transformation assumption. The propagation behavior of a finite edge through crack in a zirconia plate is simulated at the structural level with the cohesive zone model and compared with the case in which the material is purely elastic. The influences of the stress state, the cohesive strength, the shear transformation strain and the activation energy threshold on the size of the transformation zone and the crack propagation behavior are systematically discussed. The numerical method and results presented in this work may be helpful for the design of engineering components made of zirconia ceramics.
Elastic–Plastic Response of Clamped Square Plates Subjected to Repeated Quasi-Static Uniform Pressure
Authors: Shi Shiyun , Zhu Ling , Yu Tongxi
Published: July 2018

In this paper, an elastic–plastic analytical method is proposed to predict the cyclic deformation of the fully clamped square plates made of elastic–perfectly plastic material under repeated quasi-static uniform pressure. The whole process can be divided into the loading and unloading phases. The loading phase is formulated as three separate regimes: the elastic regime, the mixed elastic–plastic regime and the fully plastic regime. Unloading from a status in each phase is modeled as an elastic process. The total and elastic strain energies are characterized by the loading and unloading paths together with the displacement profiles, respectively. It is theoretically revealed that the elastic strain energy and the structural stiffness of the plate increase with the increasing transverse deflection. In addition, the effect of material elasticity is highlighted in the scenario of repeated loadings. The theoretical results are validated against the numerical simulations conducted by the commercial software ABAQUS. It is shown that the proposed elastic–plastic theoretical model has reasonable accuracy and can be employed to predict pressure–deflection relationship for this class of problems.
Analysis and control of a non-smooth population model with impulsive effects
Authors: Liu Jing Na , Zhang Tie , Zhao Lichun , Liu Bing
Published: July 2018

In this paper, a non-smooth population model with impulsive effects is proposed by combining discontinuity and non-smoothness. According to the qualitative theory of differential equations, the global analysis of the model is discussed. Using the theory of impulsive differential equations, the existence conditions of order one periodic solution are obtained. And the impulsive controllers are designed to make the pest populations stay at the refuge level. Some simulations are carried out to prove the results.
Geometric realizations of cyclic actions on surfaces
Authors: Parsad Shiv , Rajeevsarathy Kashyap , Sanki Bidyut
Published: July 2018

Let [Formula: see text] denote the mapping class group of the closed orientable surface [Formula: see text] of genus [Formula: see text], and let [Formula: see text] be of finite order. We give an inductive procedure to construct an explicit hyperbolic structure on [Formula: see text] that realizes [Formula: see text] as an isometry. In other words, this procedure yields an explicit solution to the Nielsen realization problem for cyclic subgroups of [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, we give a purely combinatorial perspective by showing how certain finite order mapping classes can be viewed as fat graph automorphisms. As an application of our realizations, we determine the sizes of maximal reduction systems for certain finite order mapping classes. Moreover, we describe a method to compute the image of finite order mapping classes and the roots of Dehn twists, under the symplectic representation [Formula: see text].
Water wave optimization-based routing protocol for vehicular adhoc networks
Authors: Wagh Mukund B. , Gomathi N.
Published: July 2018

It is well known that Vehicular Adhoc Network (VANET) plays the major role in the field of Intelligent Transport System (ITS) to enhance road safety as well. The entire communication among vehicles is covered in VANETs. Since the number of researches is in progress for the enhancement of VANET model. Usually, the issues arising with this field is the achievement of multi-constrained Quality of Service (QoS) measures. To solve this issue, our paper intends to propose a cost model that considers certain network quality measures like travel, collision, congestion and the awareness about the QoS. Moreover, this paper adopts a renowned algorithm named Water Wave Optimization algorithm (WWO) to find the optimal route. The proposed method analyses its performance over other conventional methods like Lion Algorithm (LA), Genetic Algorithm (GA) and LA with Adaptive Mutation (LAAM) in terms of cost analysis, Convergence analysis and Computational time. Then the analytical results prove the superiority of proposed work in terms of decreased routing cost.
Heuristic solution of a joint electric control reserve and wholesale market model
Authors: Breithaupt Timo , Leveringhaus Thomas , Hofmann Lutz
Published: July 2018

A mixed integer linear programming (MILP) approach for the joint simulation of electric control reserve and electricity wholesale markets is presented. This generation dispatch model extends an existing integrated grid and electricity market (IGEM) model covering the Continental European electric power system. By explicitly incorporating the markets for primary and secondary control reserves (PCR and SCR), the model can reproduce the decisions of generating unit operators on which markets get involved. Besides, the introduction of the integrality conditions allows considering start-up costs and the calculus of generating units to pass through the economically unattractive periods with low or even negative prices in order to avoid another start-up. Since this model is too large to be solved with common MILP solvers for the intended simulation time of one year, temporal and geographical interdependencies are used to solve it heuristically. The heuristic therefore splits the model into various sub-problems so that on the one hand, the number of variables, especially of integer variables, per sub-problem is reduced significantly and on the other hand, the relevant interdependencies remain considered. The heuristic is evaluated in terms of accuracy and computation time by means of two case studies. Both case studies show satisfactory accuracy and significant advantages in computation time.
AVERAGE HOLDING PRICE
Authors: LIU YEHONG , YIN GUOSHENG
Published: July 2018

We introduce a new concept of the average holding price (AHP) in the stock market. We show that, under certain assumptions on the investors’ behaviors, the AHP of a stock can be estimated using the historical trading prices and volumes. In contrast to the moving average of the stock price or the volume weighted average price, the AHP serves as a more objective benchmark for estimating the average profit or loss level of the stockholders. The algorithms for estimating the AHP are developed. Simulation studies show that the true AHP can be estimated accurately using our algorithm.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: Tapping Potential to Achieve the 2030 Agenda in Pakistan
Authors: Ali Murad
Published: July 2018

The year 2015 marked the deadline for finishing the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as the United Nations (UN) member states launched the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN 2030 Agenda encompassing 17 goals and 169 targets aims at eradicating global poverty, combating inequalities and utilizing natural resources in a sustainable manner so that “no one is left behind.” All stakeholders have committed to proceeding with the incomplete agenda of the MDGs and achieve the SDGs by 2030. Also in 2015, China initiated the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a collection of projects to develop energy, industry and communication infrastructure costing US$46 billion as a key part of the “Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).” This paper examines different components of the CPEC and explores the extensive convergence between the main goals envisioned under the CPEC and the universally accepted SDGs. It posits that if successfully implemented, the CPEC will contribute to achievement of various SDGs in Pakistan. While it is expected that the CPEC will enable the country to move forward on a number of SDGs, three goals are particularly relevant to the construction of the CPEC. The paper argues that there is immense potential for convergence, commonality, and division of labor for a host of bilateral and multilateral actors to enhance the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development (SDG17), resolve political differences, participate in the CPEC, and contribute to the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda even beyond Pakistan in the broader South Asian region.
Best practices in active and student-centered learning in physiology classes
Authors: Goodman Barbara E. , Barker Megan K. , Cooke James E.
Published: July 2018

This review article includes our analysis of the literature and our own experiences in using various types of active learning as best practices for evidence-based teaching in physiology. We have evaluated what physiology students should be expected to learn and what are specific challenges to enhancing their learning of physiology principles. We also consider how the instructor should design his or her teaching to improve buy-in from both students and other faculty members. We include a discussion of how the readers can evaluate their teaching approaches for their successes in enhancing student learning of physiology. Thus we have addressed pedagogical improvements specific to student learning of physiology, with additional suggestions from cognitive psychology approaches that can improve physiology teaching and learning.
Engagement and higher order skill proficiency of students completing a medical physiology course in three diverse learning environments
Authors: Hopper Mari K. , Kaiser Alexis N.
Published: July 2018

The primary aim of this study was to determine whether levels of student engagement, higher order skill proficiency, and knowledge acquisition demonstrated by medical students would differ when completing the same course in three diverse learning environments. Following Institutional Review Board approval, 56 first-year medical students, registered at the same medical school but attending class at three different campus centers, were enrolled in the study. All participants were completing a medical physiology course that utilized the same learning objectives but relied on different faculty incorporating diverse methodologies (percentage of class devoted to active learning strategies), course format (6-wk block vs. 17-wk semester), and student attendance. Students completed a validated survey of student engagement (SSE), a proctored online problem-based assessment of higher order skill proficiency [Collegiate Learning Assessment (CLA+); http://cae.org ], and the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) Physiology subject exam. In this limited sample, results indicate no significant differences between campus sites for any of the variables assessed. Levels of engagement were lower than expected compared with published values for graduate students. Higher order skill proficiency assessed by CLA+ was significantly higher than values reported for college seniors nationally. Surprisingly, SSE offered no prediction of performance on CLA+ or NBME, as there were no significant correlations between variables. These data indicate that, although first-year medical students may not perceive themselves as highly engaged, they are adept in using higher order skills and excel in meeting course learning objectives, regardless of learning environment.
Void spot assay procedural optimization and software for rapid and objective quantification of rodent voiding function, including overlapping urine spots
Authors: Wegner Kyle A. , Abler Lisa L. , Oakes Steven R. , Mehta Guneet S. , Ritter K. Elaine , Hill Warren G. , Zwaans Bernadette M. , Lamb Laura E. , Wang Zunyi , Bjorling Dale E. , Ricke William A. , Macoska Jill , Marker Paul C. , Southard-Smith E. Michelle , Eliceiri Kevin W. , Vezina Chad M.
Published: July 2018

Mouse urinary behavior is quantifiable and is used to pinpoint mechanisms of voiding dysfunction and evaluate potential human therapies. Approaches to evaluate mouse urinary function vary widely among laboratories, however, complicating cross-study comparisons. Here, we describe development and multi-institutional validation of a new tool for objective, consistent, and rapid analysis of mouse void spot assay (VSA) data. Void Whizzard is a freely available software plugin for FIJI (a distribution of ImageJ) that facilitates VSA image batch processing and data extraction. We describe its features, demonstrate them by evaluating how specific VSA method parameters influence voiding behavior, and establish Void Whizzard as an expedited method for VSA analysis. This study includes control and obese diabetic mice as models of urinary dysfunction to increase rigor and ensure relevance across distinct voiding patterns. In particular, we show that Void Whizzard is an effective tool for quantifying nonconcentric overlapping void spots, which commonly confound analyses. We also show that mouse genetics are consistently more influential than assay design parameters when it comes to VSA outcomes. None of the following procedural modifications to reduce overlapping spots masked these genetic-related differences: reduction of VSA testing duration, water access during the assay period, placement of a wire mesh cage bottom on top of or elevated over the filter paper, treatment of mesh with a hydrophobic spray, and size of wire mesh opening. The Void Whizzard software and rigorous validation of VSA methodological parameters described here advance the goal of standardizing mouse urinary phenotyping for comprehensive urinary phenome analyses.
Burn Pain Management at Burn Unit of Yekatit 12 Hospitals, Addis Ababa
Authors: Mengistu Negashu Dadi , Obsa Mohammed Suleiman , Gemeda Leulayehu Akalu
Published: July 2018

Background. Burn pain is a unique and complex challenge for all health professionals and the patients. The only way to insure quality burn pain relief is the patient’s self-report. Thus, assessment of severity of pain and its associated factors are important in treatment plan. Objective. To assess severity of burn pain and associated factors in Yekatit 12 Hospitals burn unit from January 1, 2017, to March 30, 2017. Methods. Hospital based cross sectional study design was conducted. Data was collected by using structural questionnaires from all eligible patients, those admitted to burn unit of Yekatit 12 Hospital during the study period. Severity of burn pain was assessed by using numerical, facial, and behavioral pain scale measurement tools. Pain assessment scale was deployed for patients by data collectors before medication and dressing change. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify significant predictors based on p value less than 0.05 with 95% confidence interval. Results. A total of 62 burn patients were included in the study. 87.1% of the patients feel severe pain and 12.9% of the patients feel moderate pain. Pediatrics age groups were about 11 times more likely to feel severe pain than adults, and patients with TBSA ≥ 25% were about 8 times more likely to feel severe burn pain than those with TBSA < 25% [AOR = 7.773; CI 1.184, 51.043] (P = 0.033). Conclusion and Recommendation. Majorities of burn patients had severe pain and burn pain was not appropriately treated. Therefore, appropriate pain management was strongly recommended.
Folic Acid Improves the Inflammatory Response in LPS-Activated THP-1 Macrophages
Authors: Samblas Mirian , Martínez J. Alfredo , Milagro Fermín
Published: July 2018

DNA methylation has been suggested as a regulatory mechanism behind some inflammatory processes. The physiological actions of methyl donors, such as folic acid, choline, and vitamin B12 on inflammation-related disease have been associated with the synthesis of the universal methyl donor S-adenosyl methionine (SAM). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of folic acid, choline, vitamin B12, and a combination of all on preventing the lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced inflammatory response in human THP-1 monocyte/macrophage cells. Folic acid and the mixture of methyl donors reduced interleukin 1 beta (IL1B) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) expression as well as protein secretion by these cells. Folic acid and choline decreased C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) mRNA levels. In addition to this, the methyl donor mixture reduced Cluster of differentiation 40 (CD40) expression, but increased serpin family E member 1 (SERPINE1) expression. All methyl donors increased methylation levels in CpGs located in IL1B, SERPINE1, and interleukin 18 (IL18) genes. However, TNF methylation was not modified. After treatment with folic acid and the methyl donor mixture, ChIP analysis showed no change in the binding affinity of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) to IL1B and TNF promoter regions after the treatment with folic acid and the methyl donor mixture. The findings of this study suggest that folic acid might contribute to the control of chronic inflammation in inflammatory-related disease.
Designing an Android-Based Application for Geohazard Reduction Using Citizen-Based Crowdsourcing Data
Authors: He Chaoyang , Ju Nengpan , Xu Qiang , Li Yanrong , Zhao Jianjun
Published: July 2018

Application development based on mobile platform is regarded as one of the major trends in information communication technology. However, only a few cases of mobile application are available for geohazard reduction using citizen-based crowdsourcing data. With the development of geohazard informatization and the rapid progress of mobile technology, the design and implementation of phone-based applications that could be used to monitor and prevent geohazards have been received increasing attention. Aiming at minimizing the threat of geohazards to people’s lives and assets, this paper presents an android-based application named Geohazards Group Measurement and Guards against System (GGMGAS). Local villagers use the GGMGAS to collect field data, including photos and videos, and transmit them to a database server. Therefore, the efficiency and stability of the data exchange between the mobile phone and the database server is very important. A design method and system solution of a data-exchange scheme was designed based on the WebService technology. Through trial operation, it has been found out that this data-exchange scheme could greatly improve the communication efficiency and the stability of collected field data. Practice has proved that this method based on citizens’ crowdsourcing data can effectively reduce the losses caused by geohazards.
Detection of Low‐Flying Target under the Sea Clutter Background Based on Volterra Filter
Authors: Xing Hongyan , Yan Yan
Published: July 2018

In order to detect low‐flying small targets in complex sea condition effectively, we study the chaotic characteristic of sea clutter, use joint algorithm combined complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition (CEEMD) with wavelet transform to de‐noise, and put forward a detection method for low‐flying target under the sea clutter background based on Volterra filter. By CEEMD method, sea clutter signal which contains small target can be decomposed into a series of intrinsic mode function (IMF) components, pick out high‐frequency components which contain more noise by autocorrelation function, and perform wavelet transform on them. The de‐noised components and remaining components are used to reconstruct clear signal. In view of the chaotic characteristics of sea clutter, we use Volterra filter to establish adaptive prediction model, detect low‐flying small target hiding in sea clutter background from the prediction error, and compare the root mean square error (RMSE) before and after de‐noising to evaluate de‐noising effect. Experimental results show that the joint algorithm can effectively remove noise and reduce the RMSE by 40% at least. Volterra prediction model can directly detect low‐flying small target under sea clutter background from the prediction error in the cases of high signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR). In the cases of low SNR, after de‐noised by joint algorithm, Volterra prediction model can also detect the low‐flying small target clearly.
Serum Metabonomics Analysis of Liver Failure Treated by Nonbioartificial Liver Support Systems
Authors: Wu Chunyan , Zhu Ying , Yu Mengqian
Published: July 2018

Objective. To analyze the small molecular metabolic compounds of nonbioartificial liver for treatment of hepatic failure and make further efforts to study the clinical efficacy, mechanism of action, and pathogenesis of hepatic failure. Methods. 52 patients who met the standard of artificial liver treatment for liver failure were enrolled; these patients included 6 cases of acute liver failure (11.54%), 3 cases of subacute liver failure (5.77%), acute-on-chronic liver failure in 10 cases (19.23%), and 33 cases of chronic liver failure (63.46%). Treatment modes included plasma exchange in 34 patients (65.38%), bilirubin adsorption in 9 patients (17.31%), and hemofiltration in 9 patients (17.31%). The clinical efficacy of artificial liver was assessed by monitoring the effects in the near future. Significant changes in metabolic compounds of liver failure in the treatment before and after artificial liver were screened by using Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS). Related metabolic pathways were analyzed by MetaboAnalyst. Results. After artificial liver treatment, the liver function and coagulation function of liver failure patients were significantly improved (P < 0.01), the Meld score was lower than that before treatment, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Serum metabolomics identified 29 small metabolic compounds and 12 metabolic pathways with variable projection importance (VIP) greater than 1 before and after artificial liver treatment. There were 11 metabolic compounds of VIP over 1 and 7 metabolic pathways in the different modes of artificial liver treatment for chronic liver failure. Among them, bile acid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism are the main sources. Conclusion. Artificial liver treatment can effectively improve liver function and blood coagulation function and Meld score, clinical symptoms and signs in patients with liver failure; the curative effect of artificial liver was verified, which reflected the clinical value of artificial liver in the treatment of liver failure. Artificial liver treatment of liver failure on fatty acids and primary bile acid synthesis pathway was the most significant. The difference of fatty acid, primary bile acid synthesis pathway, and phenylalanine metabolic pathway in different artificial liver patterns of chronic liver failure was the most significant. This provides a new basis for understanding the mechanism of hepatic failure and the mechanism of liver failure by artificial liver treatment.
Surveillance of First-Generation H1-Antihistamine Use for Older Patients with Dementia in Japan: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Maeda Toshiki , Babazono Akira , Nishi Takumi
Published: July 2018

Background. This study aimed to investigate the rate of first-generation H1-antihistamines use for older adults with dementia in Japan. Methods. The study design was retrospective cohort using claims data between fiscal years 2010 and 2013. Subjects were 75 years or older, diagnosed with dementia, and given H1-antihistamines orally during the study period after being diagnosed with dementia. We investigated the cumulative number of oral H1-antihistamines administered and the relationship between first-generation H1-antihistamine use and each explanatory variable using crude and adjusted odds ratio. Results. The cumulative total for use of first-generation H1-antihistamine for older adults with dementia accounted for 32.1% of all antihistamine medication. The majority of first-generation H1-antihistamine prescriptions were indicated for cold treatment. Those with upper respiratory infection or asthma had a significantly positive relationship with first-generation H1-antihistamine use. Conclusion. The study showed that first-generation H1-antihistamine drugs were highly prescribed in older adults with dementia in Japan.
Carbon-Based Materials for Thermoelectrics
Authors: Chakraborty Pranay , Ma Tengfei , Zahiri Amir Hassan , Cao Lei , Wang Yan
Published: July 2018

This article reviews the recent progress towards achieving carbon-based thermoelectric materials. A wide range of experimental and computational studies on carbon allotropes and composites is covered in this review paper. Specifically, we discuss the strategies for engineering graphene, graphene nanoribbon, graphene nanomesh, graphene nanowiggle, carbon nanotube (CNT), fullerene, graphyne, and carbon quantum dot for better thermoelectric performance. Moreover, we discuss the most recent advances in CNT/graphene-polymer composites and the related challenges and solutions. We also highlight the important charge and heat transfer mechanisms in carbon-based materials and state-of-the-art strategies for enhancing thermoelectric performance. Finally, we provide an outlook towards the future of carbon-based thermoelectrics.
The Protective Effect of New Compound XH‐103 on Radiation‐Induced GI Syndrome
Authors: Dong Yinping , Cheng Ying , Hou Qinlian , Wu Jing , Li Deguan , Tian Hongqi
Published: July 2018

Background. Radiation‐induced intestinal injury is one of the side effects in patients receiving radiotherapy. The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of XH‐103 on radiation‐induced small intestinal injury and to explore its mechanism. Methods. C57BL/6N mice were irradiated and treated with XH‐103. Firstly, the survival rate of mice exposed to 9.0 Gy and 11.0 Gy total body irradiation (TBI) was examined. Subsequently, at 3.5 d after IR, the small intestinal morphological changes were examined by HE. The numbers of crypt cells, the villus height, the expression of Ki67 and Lgr5, and the apoptotic cells in the intestinal crypts were examined by immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, the expression of p53 and Bax was analyzed by WB. Results. Compared to the irradiation group, XH‐103 improved the mice survival rate, protected the intestinal morphology of mice, decreased the apoptotic rate of intestinal crypt cells, maintained cell regeneration, and promoted crypt proliferation and differentiation. XH‐103 also reduced the expression of p53 and Bax in the small intestine compared to the IR group. Conclusion. These data demonstrate that XH‐103 can prevent radiation‐induced intestinal injury, which is beneficial for the protection of radiation injuries.
A Theory-Based Self-Care Intervention with the Application of Health Literacy Strategies in Patients with High Blood Pressure and Limited Health Literacy: A Protocol Study
Authors: Javadzade Homamodin , Larki Azam , Tahmasebi Rahim , Reisi Mahnoush
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a theory-based self-care intervention with the application of health literacy strategies in patients with high blood pressure and limited health literacy. This is a randomized controlled trial, with measurements at baseline and 1 and 3 months follow-up. 100 patients with high blood pressure and limited health literacy will be randomly allocated to either an intervention group or a usual care control group. We will mainly establish the intervention model based on the principal health belief model components. Patients randomized to the intervention group will receive four educational sessions during four weeks. Considering the limited health literacy level of the patients of the study, health literacy strategies will be used in educational material design for enhancing the quality of the intervention. In order to cover these strategies, we will design four standard animated comics and fact sheets with illustrations and photos consistent with the health belief model constructs and educational sessions’ topics. Data will be collected using some questionnaires and will be analyzed using the SPSS software. The findings of this study may assist with the development of a theoretical model for self-care intervention in patients with high blood pressure and limited health literacy.
Direct Resistive Heating Simulation Tool for the Repair of Aerospace Structures through Composite Patches
Authors: Garmendia Iñaki , Vallejo Haritz , Iriarte Aroa , Anglada Eva
Published: July 2018

Bonded composite patches are very appropriate for aircraft structural repair, showing very good properties when compared with traditional mechanical fastening of metal sheets. The curing process of the composite patch must be done “onsite” and a direct resistive heating method has been proposed. The heat produced by the electric current through the Joule effect when crossing the patch carbon fibre bundles has been modelled with a Finite Element Program code, developed for the electric current equation. The heat conduction equation has also been modelled in the program, as well as the kinetics of the curing reaction of the composite resin. The electric resistivity of the materials is function of the temperature, so a nonlinear coupled system has been developed. Therefore, a complete simulation tool able to study different configurations, current intensities, materials, etc. for the composite patches is presented. A study case has been run with the developed code and results have been compared with experimental values. Good agreement is found.
Chemical Composition and Antioxidant, Analgesic, and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Methanolic Extract ofEuphorbia retusain Mice
Authors: Sdayria Jazia , Rjeibi Ilhem , Feriani Anouar , Ncib Sana , Bouguerra Wided , Hfaiedh Najla , Elfeki Abdelfattah , Allagui Mohamed Salah
Published: July 2018

Plants provide an alternative source to manage different human disorders due to various metabolites. The aim of this study is to investigate the phytochemical constituents of the methanolic extracts ofEuphorbia retusaand to evaluate their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities. The phytochemical results obtained by HPLC and by chemical assay reactions have revealed the richness of the methanolic extract ofE. retusain active compounds, in particular polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. The methanolic extract shows significant antioxidant activitiesin vitro, in the DPPH and the FRAP assays. The antinociceptive activity was evaluated using acetic acid and hot-plate models of pain in mice. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by carrageenan-induced paw edema. Oral pretreatment with the methanolic extract ofE. retusa(200 mg/kg) exhibited a significant inhibition of pain induced either by acetic acid or by the heating plate and in a manner comparable to the standard drug paracetamol.E. retusasignificantly reduced paw edema starting from the 3rd hour after carrageenan administration by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) in liver and paw tissues and decreasing the levels of MDA. These results may confirm the interesting potential of this plant as a treatment of various inflammatory and pain diseases.
Intraoperative Tracheal Obstruction Management among Patients with Anterior Mediastinal Masses
Authors: Kafrouni H. , Saroufim Joelle , Abdel Massih Myriam
Published: July 2018

Background. Patients suffering from undiagnosed obstruction of the central airways: the trachea and main stem bronchi are at increased risk for perioperative and postoperative complications, especially if general anesthesia is performed. Case Description. This report discusses a 30-year-old asymptomatic Caucasian female who faced recurrent distal airway collapse during mediastinoscopy for biopsy of an anterior mediastinal mass, which led to the inability to extubate her. This case examines the necessity of a thorough preoperative assessment especially in patients with undiagnosed tracheal obstruction and a precise coordination between anesthesiologist and surgeon in being able to perform a safe and smooth anesthesia, in order to avoid life-threatening complications and to reduce further morbidity. Methods. The scope of this case report is restricted to publications in all surgical and anesthesiological specialties among adult patient population. Main search key words were as follows: “tracheal obstruction,” “general anesthesia,” “mediastinum,” and “tumors” Results. The literature supports an increased perioperative risk of airway obstruction with the use of general anesthesia in patients with anterior mediastinal masses. This case report suggests a perioperative anesthetic management modality for patients presenting with anterior mediastinal masses and who are at high risk of cardiovascular compression and tracheal obstruction. Thus, it is highly important to note that evidence-based recommendations are not available in the literature. Conclusions. This case report suggests perioperative management modalities performed by anesthesiologists in order to minimize the risk of airway obstruction among patients having anterior mediastinal masses and shed the lights on the importance of proper anesthetic and surgical planning in order to prevent intraoperative complications and improve the quality of healthcare provided to patients presenting critical cases.
Reversal Strategies for Intracranial Hemorrhage Related to Direct Oral Anticoagulant Medications
Authors: Dabi Alok , Koutrouvelis Aristides P.
Published: July 2018

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are a new class of anticoagulants that directly inhibit either thrombin or factor Xa in the coagulation cascade. They are being increasingly used instead of warfarin or other vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Adverse side effects of DOACs may result in hemorrhagic complications, including life-threatening intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), though to a much lesser degree than VKAs. Currently there are relatively limited indications for DOACS but their usage is certain to expand with the availability of their respective specific reversal agents. Currently, only idarucizumab (antidote for dabigatran) has been United States Food and Drug Administration- (FDA-) approved, but others (andexanet-α and ciraparantag) may be approved in near future, and the development and availability of such reversal agents have the potential to dramatically change the current anticoagulant use by providing reversal of multiple oral anticoagulants. Until all the DOACs have FDA-approved reversal agents, the treatment of the dreaded side effects of bleeding is challenging. This article is an attempt to provide an overview of the management of hemorrhage, especially ICH, related to DOAC use.