bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capillarity-induced folds fuel extreme shape changes in thin wicked membranes
Authors: Grandgeorge Paul , Krins Natacha , Hourlier-Fargette Aurélie , Laberty-Robert Christel , Neukirch Sébastien , Antkowiak Arnaud
Published: May 2018

Reserving the right to stretch

Retractable antennae or certain spider silks can stretch well beyond their apparent length because they have a reserve of material that lets them expand and contract over much longer distances. Grandgeorge
et al.
made nonwoven fibrous membranes by electrospinning a block copolymer with varying ratios of two components. They infused these membranes with a liquid that let the fibers buckle and fold without changing the apparent surface area. When the membranes were stretched, this material could unbuckle and slide along the membrane surface, allowing it to extend without breakage.

Science
, this issue p.
296
Risk-based reboot for global lab biosafety
Authors: Kojima Kazunobu , Booth Catherine Makison , Summermatter Kathrin , Bennett Allan , Heisz Marianne , Blacksell Stuart D. , McKinney Michelle
Published: May 2018

New WHO guidance could expand access to lab facilities
Ultralarge elastic deformation of nanoscale diamond
Authors: Banerjee Amit , Bernoulli Daniel , Zhang Hongti , Yuen Muk-Fung , Liu Jiabin , Dong Jichen , Ding Feng , Lu Jian , Dao Ming , Zhang Wenjun , Lu Yang , Suresh Subra
Published: May 2018

Small, smooth, and bendable diamonds

If you manage to deform a diamond, it usually means you have broken it. Diamonds have very high hardness, but they do not deform elastically. This limits their usefulness for some applications. However, Banerjee
et al.
discovered that diamond nanoneedles can deform elastically after all (see the Perspective by LLorca). The key was in their small size (300 nm), which allowed for very smooth-surfaced, defect-free diamonds. The deformation was close to the theoretical limit for diamond, which opens up the potential for applications in microelectronics and drug delivery.

Science
, this issue p.
300
; see also p.
264
Parkin function in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Arkinson Connor , Walden Helen
Published: May 2018

Models of Parkin-mediated ubiquitination lend insight into the role of pathological mutations
Unexpected reversal of C
3
versus C
4
grass response to elevated CO
2
during a 20-year field experiment
Authors: Reich Peter B. , Hobbie Sarah E. , Lee Tali D. , Pastore Melissa A.
Published: May 2018

A short-term trend reversed

Theory and empirical data both support the paradigm that C
4
plant species (in which the first product of carbon fixation is a four-carbon molecule) benefit less from rising carbon dioxide (CO
2
) concentrations than C
3
species (in which the first product is a three-carbon molecule). This is because their different photosynthetic physiologies respond differently to atmospheric CO
2
concentrations. Reich
et al.
document a reversal of this pattern in a 20-year CO
2
enrichment experiment using grassland plots with each type of plant (see the Perspective by Hovenden and Newton). Over the first 12 years, biomass increased with elevated CO
2
in C
3
plots but not C
4
plots, as expected. But over the next 8 years, the pattern reversed: Biomass increased in C
4
plots but not C
3
plots. Thus, even the best-supported short-term drivers of plant response to global change might not predict long-term results.

Science
, this issue p.
317
; see also p.
263
A unifying concept in vascular health and disease
Authors: Schwartz Martin A. , Vestweber Dietmar , Simons Michael
Published: May 2018

Interventions to restore blood vessel stability could improve health outcomes
Wielding new genomic tools wisely
Who We Are and How We Got Here: Ancient DNA and the New Science of the Human Past
David Reich
Pantheon, 2018. 362 pp.
Authors: Arcos María C. Ávila
Published: May 2018

Troubling traces of biocolonialism undermine an otherwise eloquent synthesis of ancient genome research
Whispering neurons fuel cortical highways
Authors: Schinder Alejandro F. , Lanuza Guillermo M.
Published: May 2018

Synaptic communication accelerates neuronal migration in the developing brain
On the quest for the strongest materials
Authors: LLorca Javier
Published: May 2018

Diamond nanoneedles have strength approaching the theoretical maximum
Impact of Bacterial Membrane Fatty Acid Composition on the Failure of Daptomycin To Kill Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Boudjemaa Rym , Cabriel Clément , Dubois-Brissonnet Florence , Bourg Nicolas , Dupuis Guillaume , Gruss Alexandra , Lévêque-Fort Sandrine , Briandet Romain , Fontaine-Aupart Marie-Pierre , Steenkeste Karine
Published: May 2018

Daptomycin is a last-resort membrane-targeting lipopeptide approved for the treatment of drug-resistant staphylococcal infections, such as bacteremia and implant-related infections. Although cases of resistance to this antibiotic are rare, increasing numbers of clinical,
in vitro
, and animal studies report treatment failure, notably against
Staphylococcus aureus
. The aim of this study was to identify the features of daptomycin and its target bacteria that lead to daptomycin treatment failure. We show that daptomycin bactericidal activity against
S. aureus
varies significantly with the growth state and strain, according to the membrane fatty acid composition. Daptomycin efficacy as an antibiotic relies on its ability to oligomerize within membranes and form pores that subsequently lead to cell death. Our findings ascertain that daptomycin interacts with tolerant bacteria and reaches its membrane target, regardless of its bactericidal activity. However, the final step of pore formation does not occur in cells that are daptomycin tolerant, strongly suggesting that it is incapable of oligomerization. Importantly, membrane fatty acid contents correlated with poor daptomycin bactericidal activity, which could be manipulated by fatty acid addition. In conclusion, daptomycin failure to treat
S. aureus
is not due to a lack of antibiotic-target interaction, but is driven by its capacity to form pores, which depends on membrane composition. Manipulation of membrane fluidity to restore
S. aureus
daptomycin bactericidal activity
in vivo
could open the way to novel antibiotic treatment strategies.
Population Pharmacokinetic Model and Meta-analysis of Outcomes of Amphotericin B Deoxycholate Use in Adults with Cryptococcal Meningitis
Authors: Stott Katharine E. , Beardsley Justin , Whalley Sarah , Kibengo Freddie Mukasa , Mai Nguyen Thi Hoang , Tùng Nguyễn Lê Nhu' , Cuc Ngo Thi Kim , Kolamunnage-Dona Ruwanthi , Hope William , Day Jeremy
Published: May 2018

There is a limited understanding of the population pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of amphotericin B deoxycholate (DAmB) for cryptococcal meningitis. A PK study was conducted inn= 42 patients receiving DAmB (1 mg/kg of body weight every 24 h [q24h]). A 2-compartment PK model was developed. Patient weight influenced clearance and volume in the final structural model. Monte Carlo simulations estimated drug exposure associated with various DAmB dosages. A search was conducted for trials reporting outcomes of treatment of cryptococcal meningitis patients with DAmB monotherapy, and a meta-analysis was performed. The PK parameter means (standard deviations) were as follows: clearance, 0.03 (0.01) × weight + 0.67 (0.01) liters/h; volume, 0.82 (0.80) × weight + 1.76 (1.29) liters; first-order rate constant from central compartment to peripheral compartment, 5.36 (6.67) h−1; first-order rate constant from peripheral compartment to central compartment, 9.92 (12.27) h−1. The meta-analysis suggested that the DAmB dosage explained most of the heterogeneity in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sterility outcomes but not in mortality outcomes. Simulations of values corresponding to the area under concentration-time curve from h 144 to h 168 (AUC144–168) resulted in median (interquartile range) values of 5.83 mg · h/liter (4.66 to 8.55), 10.16 mg · h/liter (8.07 to 14.55), and 14.51 mg · h/liter (11.48 to 20.42) with dosages of 0.4, 0.7, and 1.0 mg/kg q24h, respectively. DAmB PK is described adequately by a linear model that incorporates weight with clearance and volume. Interpatient PK variability is modest and unlikely to be responsible for variability in clinical outcomes. There is discordance between the impact that drug exposure has on CSF sterility and its impact on mortality outcomes, which may be due to cerebral pathology not reflected in CSF fungal burden, in addition to clinical variables.
Molecular Characterization of Invasive Isolates of Neisseria meningitidis in Casablanca, Morocco
Authors: Razki Aziza , Hong Eva , Zerouali Khalid , Belabbes Houria , Aitmouss Khadija , Terrade Aude , Zaki Bahija , Deghmane Ala-Eddine , Elmdaghri Naima , Taha Muhamed-Kheir
Published: May 2018

Meningococcal epidemiology may change unpredictably, and typing of
Neisseria meningitidis
isolates is crucial for the surveillance of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD). Few data are available regarding the meningococcal epidemiology in countries of North Africa. We aimed to explore invasive meningococcal isolates from the Casablanca region in Morocco. We used whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to characterize 105 isolates from this region during the period of 2011 to 2016. Our data showed that the majority (
n
= 100) of the isolates belonged to serogroup B. Genotyping indicated that most of the isolates (
n
= 62) belonged to sequence type 33 of clonal complex 32. The isolates also showed the same PorA and FetA markers and clustered together on the basis of WGS phylogenetic analysis; they seemed to correspond to an expansion of local isolates in the Casablanca region, as reported for similar isolates in several other countries. These data suggest that serogroup B isolates may predominate in Morocco, which may have an important impact in the design of vaccination strategies.
TRIM21 Promotes Innate Immune Response to RNA Viral Infection through Lys27-Linked Polyubiquitination of MAVS
Authors: Xue Binbin , Li Huiyi , Guo Mengmeng , Wang Jingjing , Xu Yan , Zou Xuan , Deng Rilin , Li Guangdi , Zhu Haizhen
Published: May 2018

Activation of innate immunity is essential for host cells to restrict the spread of invading viruses and other pathogens. MAVS plays a critical role in innate immune response to RNA viral infection. In this study, we demonstrated that TRIM21 targets MAVS to positively regulate innate immunity. Notably, TRIM21 targets and catalyzes K27-linked polyubiquitination of MAVS and then promotes the recruitment of TBK1 to MAVS, leading to upregulation of innate immunity. Our study outlines a novel mechanism by which the IFN signaling pathway blocks RNA virus to escape immune elimination.
Identification of the Intragenomic Promoter Controlling Hepatitis E Virus Subgenomic RNA Transcription
Authors: Ding Qiang , Nimgaonkar Ila , Archer Nicholas F. , Bram Yaron , Heller Brigitte , Schwartz Robert E. , Ploss Alexander
Published: May 2018

Approximately 20 million hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections occur annually in both developing and industrialized countries. Most infections are self-limiting, but they can lead to chronic infections and cirrhosis in immunocompromised patients, and death in pregnant women. The mechanisms of HEV replication remain incompletely understood due to scarcity of adequate experimental platforms. HEV undergoes asymmetric genome replication, but it produces an additional subgenomic (SG) RNA encoding the viral capsid and a viroporin in partially overlapping open reading frames. Using a novel transcomplementation system, we mapped the intragenomic subgenomic promoter regulating SG RNA synthesis. This
cis
-acting element is highly conserved across all eight HEV genotypes, and when the element is mutated, it abrogates particle assembly and release. Our work defines previously unappreciated viral regulatory elements and provides the first in-depth view of the intracellular genome dynamics of this emerging human pathogen.

IMPORTANCE
HEV is an emerging pathogen causing severe liver disease. The genetic information of HEV is encoded in RNA. The genomic RNA is initially copied into a complementary, antigenomic RNA that is a template for synthesis of more genomic RNA and for so-called subgenomic RNA. In this study, we identified the precise region within the HEV genome at which the synthesis of the subgenomic RNA is initiated. The nucleotides within this region are conserved across genetically distinct variants of HEV, highlighting the general importance of this segment for the virus. To identify this regulatory element, we developed a new experimental system that is a powerful tool with broad utility to mechanistically dissect many other poorly understood functional elements of HEV.
Interleukin 1α-Deficient Mice Have an Altered Gut Microbiota Leading to Protection from Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis
Authors: Nunberg Moran , Werbner Nir , Neuman Hadar , Bersudsky Marina , Braiman Alex , Ben-Shoshan Moshe , Ben Izhak Meirav , Louzoun Yoram , Apte Ron N. , Voronov Elena , Koren Omry
Published: May 2018

Here, we show a connection between IL-1α expression, microbiota composition, and clinical outcomes of DSS-induced colitis. Specifically, we show that the mild colitis symptoms seen in IL-1α-deficient mice following administration of DSS are correlated with the unique gut microbiota compositions of the mice. However, when these mice are exposed to WT microbiota by cohousing, their gut microbiota composition returns to resemble that of WT mice, and their disease severity increases significantly. As inflammatory bowel diseases are such common diseases, with limited effective treatments to date, there is a great need to better understand the interactions between microbiota composition, the immune system, and colitis. This study shows correlation between microbiota composition and DSS resistance; it may potentially lead to the development of improved probiotics for IBD treatment.
Comparison of long-term clinical evolution in highly myopic eyes with vertical oval-shaped dome with or without untreated serous retinal detachment
Authors: García-Ben Antonio , Garcia-Basterra Ignacio , González-Gómez Ana , Baquero-Aranda Isabel , Morillo-Sanchez María José , Soler-García Antonio , García-Campos Jose Manuel
Published: May 2018

Background

To compare the long-term clinical evolution of highly myopic eyes with vertical oval-shaped dome associated with or without untreated serous retinal detachment.

Methods

Twenty-eight patients with high myopia (40 eyes) with smooth macular elevations related to a vertical oval-shaped dome were recruited. Serous retinal detachment was investigated; 11 eyes had persistent submacular fluid (study group) and 29 eyes lacked submacular fluid (control group). All patients underwent complete ophthalmological examinations, including optical coherence tomography at baseline every 6 months for 2 years. Fluorescein angiographies were performed in cases with serous retinal detachment to rule out choroidal neovascularisation.

Results

There were no statistical differences in baseline age, sex, spherical equivalence or axial length between the two groups. Serous retinal detachment always occurred at the top of the inward macular incurvation. Moreover, no statistically significant differences in mean best-corrected visual acuity were observed during the 24-month follow-up period in the study and control groups and between the two groups at all time points. The mean central foveal thickness was significantly higher in the study group at each visit (p=0.001, in all cases). At the final follow-up visit, complete resolution of the serous retinal detachment was achieved in 1 of the 11 study group’s eyes.

Conclusions

Serous retinal detachment is a complication associated with vertical oval-shaped domes that seems to remain stable in terms of visual function over time without treatment.
Implementation of depression and anxiety screening in patients undergoing radiotherapy
Authors: Holtzman Adam L , Pereira Deidre B , Yeung Anamaria R
Published: May 2018

Anxiety and depression are disabling, underdiagnosed issues that affect the management of oncology patients. Until recently, there has been no standard protocol for screening and treating these ailments at our cancer centre. The purpose of this institutional review board-approved study was to analyse the implementation of a screening tool in our clinical workflow with the aim of screening over 90% of patients and increasing referrals to mental health services by 50%.
Managing antibiotics wisely: a quality improvement programme in a tertiary neonatal unit in the UK
Authors: Makri Vasiliki , Davies Gemma , Cannell Stephanie , Willson Katherine , Winterson Lucy , Webb Joanna , Kandhari Amit , Mansour Maha , Thomas Joanne , Morris Geraint , Matthes Jean , Banerjee Sujoy
Published: May 2018

Microbial resistance to antibiotics is a serious global health problem compounded by antibiotic overuse and limited investment in new antibiotic research. Inappropriate perinatal antibiotic exposure is increasingly linked to lifelong adverse outcomes through its impact on the developing microbiome. Antibiotic stewardship may be the only effective preventative strategy currently available. As the first tertiary neonatal unit in the UK to collaborate in an international quality improvement programme (QIP) with Vermont Oxford Network (VON), we present the results of our antibiotic stewardship initiative.

The QIP was officially launched in January 2016 and aimed to reduce antibiotic usage rate (AUR) by 20% of baseline by 31st December 2016 without compromising patient safety. A multidisciplinary team of professionals and parent representatives shared good practices and improvement strategies through international webinars and local meetings, devised uniform data collection methodology and implemented a number of carefully selected ‘Plan–Do–Study–Act’ cycles. Run charts were used to present data and, where appropriate, statistical analysis undertaken to compare outcomes.

The QIP resulted in a sustained reduction in AUR from a baseline median of 347 to 198 per 1000 patient-days (a reduction of 43%). The proportion of culture-negative sepsis screens where antibiotics were stopped within 36–48 hours increased consistently from a baseline of 32.5% to 91%. The antibiotic days per patient at discharge reduced from a median of 3 to 2 days, and there was a reduction in practice variation. Our annual mortality and necrotising enterocolitis rates for the VON cohort (<30 weeks or <1500 g) were the best ever recorded, 5.5% and 1.4%, respectively. Audits confirmed a high level of staff and family awareness of the QIP.

The QIP achieved a sustained reduction in antibiotic use without compromising patient safety. Our challenge is to sustain this improvement safely.
Military health outreach on Exercise ASKARI SERPENT: a discussion of clinical and ethical challenges
Authors: Turner Luke John , Wilkins D , Woodhouse J I J A
Published: May 2018

Exercise ASKARI SERPENT (Ex AS) is an annual British Army medical exercise that sees the deployment of a medical regiment to rural Kenya. The exercise involves the delivery of health outreach clinics and health education to the civilian population alongside Kenyan governmental and non-governmental organisations. This article includes a post hoc analysis of the ethical and clinical challenges that clinicians faced during Ex AS, applying a four-quadrant approach to ethical decision-making. This article intends to stimulate further debate and discussion on how to best prepare clinicians for clinical challenges and ethical decision-making on future exercises and operations. We conclude that our experiences on Ex AS can provide an insight on how to develop predeployment training for clinicians. Furthermore, the universal nature of the challenges faced on Ex AS can be applied to training for future contingency operations.
Examining lung cancer risks across different industries and occupations in Ontario, Canada: the establishment of the Occupational Disease Surveillance System
Authors: Jung James K H , Feinstein Saul G , Palma Lazgare Luis , Macleod Jill S , Arrandale Victoria H , McLeod Christopher B , Peter Alice , Demers Paul A
Published: May 2018

Background

The Occupational Disease Surveillance System (ODSS) was established in Ontario, Canada by linking a cohort of workers with data created from Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) claims to administrative health databases. The aim of this study was to use ODSS to identify high-risk industry and occupation groups for lung cancer in Ontario.

Methods

Workers in the WSIB lost time claims database were linked to the Ontario Cancer Registry using subjects’ health insurance numbers, name, sex, birthdate and death date (if applicable). Several occupations and industries known to be at increased risk were outlined a priori to examine whether ODSS could replicate these associations. Age-adjusted, sex-stratified Cox proportional hazard models compared the risk of lung cancer within one industry/occupation versus all other groups in the cohort. Workers with a lung cancer diagnosis prior to cohort entry were excluded for analysis, leaving 2 187 762 workers for analysis.

Results

During the 1983 to 2014 follow-up, 34 661 workers in the cohort were diagnosed with lung cancer. Among expected high-risk industries, elevated risks were observed among workers in quarries/sand pits and construction industries for both sexes, and among males in metal mines, iron foundries, non-metallic mineral products industries and transportation industries. Excess risk was also observed among occupations in drilling/blasting, other mining/quarrying, mineral ore treating, excavating/grading/paving, truck driving, painting, bus driving and construction.

Conclusions

This current surveillance system identified several established high-risk groups for lung cancer and could be used for ongoing surveillance of occupational lung cancer in Ontario.
Conversion of Symphytum officinale and Panicum virgatum plant extracts to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural catalysed by metal chlorides in ionic liquids
Authors: Martel Alexandrine L. , Montaut Sabine , Ulíbarri Gerardo , Spiers Graeme A.
Published: May 2018

The present work examined the potential for two plants grown on Canadian soil, Symphytum officinale L. (common comfrey) and Panicum virgatum L. (switchgrass), to produce 5-hydroxymethylfurfural using metal chloride catalysis in two ionic liquids, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride or 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride. Furthermore, two pre-treatments, namely the dilute sulfuric acid treatment and the methanol extraction, were studied as a way to improve sugar availability and increase 5-hydroxymethylfurfural yields compared with untreated biomass. The 0.5 mol/L H2SO4 hydrolysis under autoclave conditions produced sugar-rich extracts containing 230 ± 23 mg of sugars per gram of hydrolysed biomass for comfrey and 425 ± 13 mg of sugars per gram of hydrolysed biomass for switchgrass. The methanol extraction produced extracts high in simple sugars with concentration of 300 ± 60 mg of sugars per gram of dry extract for comfrey and 202 ± 16 mg of sugars per gram of dry extract for switchgrass. The yield of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural was improved from less than 1% using untreated biomass to 6.04% and 18.0% using dry methanol extracts of comfrey and switchgrass, respectively. These yields, although small, are important, as they show for the first time that a methanol extract could enhance the metal chloride catalysis in ionic liquids for 5-hydroxymethylfurfural production from biomass.
Cross-sectoral input for the potential role of science in Canada’s environmental assessment
Authors: Jacob Aerin L. , Moore Jonathan W. , Fox Caroline H. , Sunter Emily J. , Gauthier Danielle , Westwood Alana R. , Ford Adam T.
Published: May 2018

Since being elected in 2015, Canada’s federal Liberal government has taken steps to overhaul major environment-related laws and policies, including federal environmental assessment (EA) and regulatory processes. During 2016–2017, a government-appointed panel toured Canada and received >1000 suggestions from diverse sectors of society regarding EA reform. Yet, different sectors of society may have different views concerning scientific components of EA. We analyzed written submissions during public consultation (categorized into five sectors) regarding five key scientific components of EA: (1) openly sharing information, (2) evaluating cumulative effects, (3) scientific rigour, (4) transparency in decision-making, and (5) independence between regulators and proponents. On the whole, submissions from Indigenous groups, non-governmental organizations, and individuals/academics supported strengthening all five components. In contrast, most contributions from industry/industry associations, and, to a lesser extent, government bodies or agencies, suggested that there was no need for increased scientific rigour or increased independence. These findings indicate that there is cross-sectoral support for strengthening some scientific aspects of EA. However, the degree to which the Government of Canada strengthens the scientific rigour and independence of EA will indicate whether environmental decision-making in Canada is aligned with preferences from industry or the rest of Canada.
A comparative study of various inflow boundary conditions and turbulence models for wind turbine wake predictions
Authors: Tian Lin-Lin , Zhao Ning , Song Yi-Lei , Zhu Chun-Ling
Published: May 2018

This work is devoted to perform systematic sensitivity analysis of different turbulence models and various inflow boundary conditions in predicting the wake flow behind a horizontal axis wind turbine represented by an actuator disc (AD). The tested turbulence models are the standard k–[Formula: see text] model and the Reynolds Stress Model (RSM). A single wind turbine immersed in both uniform flows and in modeled atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) flows is studied. Simulation results are validated against the field experimental data in terms of wake velocity and turbulence intensity.
A Method of Deep Belief Network Image Classification Based on Probability Measure Rough Set Theory
Authors: Zhang Wenyu , Ren Lu , Wang Lei
Published: May 2018

The increasing diverse demand for image feature recognition and complicated relationships among image pixels cannot be fully and effectively handled by traditional single image recognition methods. In order to effectively improve classification accuracy in image processing, a deep belief network (DBN) classification model based on probability measure rough set theory is proposed in our research.

First, the incomplete and inaccurate fuzzy information in the original image is preprocessed by the rough set method based on probability measure. Second, the attribute features of the image information are extracted, the attribute feature set is reduced to generate the classification rules, and key components are extracted as the input of the DBN. Third, the network structure of the DBN is determined by the extracted classification rules, and the importance of the rough set attributes is integrated and the weights of the neuronal nodes are corrected by the backpropagation (BP) algorithm. Last, the DBN is trained to classify images. The experimental analysis of the proposed method for medical imagery shows that it is more effective than current single rough set approach or the taxonomy of deep learning.
Short-Term Traffic Flow Prediction Model of Wavelet Neural Network Based on Mind Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Xu Liqiang , Du Xuedong , Wang Binguo
Published: May 2018

This paper introduces mind evolutionary algorithm (MEA) into the application of short-term traffic flow prediction, and proposes a short-term traffic flow prediction model of wavelet neural network based on mind evolutionary algorithm (MEA-WNN). The optimal connection weight and wavelet parameters of wavelet neural network (WNN) are searched globally by MEA, and the convergence capacity of wavelet neural network is improved. The experimental data show that, compared with the prediction model of the traditional WNN and the WNN based on genetic algorithm (GA-WNN), the prediction model of MEA-WNN has higher global prediction accuracy.
Study of Face Orientation Recognition Based on Neural Network
Authors: Li Suping , Wang Zhanfeng , Wang Jing
Published: May 2018

Learning vector quantization (LVQ) network and back-propagation (BP) network are constructed easily making use of MATLAB toolbox on the basis of maintaining the recognition rate. Face images are randomly selected from images set as training data of LVQ network and BP network. LVQ algorithm and BP algorithm are used to train network. The automatic recognition of face orientation is realized when the system obtains convergence network. First, all images are processed by edge detection. Then feature vectors representing position of the eye were extracted from edge detected images. Feature vectors of training set are sent to network to adjust the parameters which ensures the convergence speed and performance of the network. Experimental results show that the constructed LVQ network and BP network can judge face orientation according to feature vectors of input images. Generally, the recognition rate of LVQ network is higher than that of BP network. The LVQ network and BP network are both feasible and effective for face orientation recognition to some extent. The advantage of this work is that the recognition system is efficient and easy to promote. This paper focuses on how to use MATLAB easily to design identification network rather than the complexity of identification system. The future research will focus on the stability and robustness of recognition network.
SPLM: A Flexible and Accurate Reliability Assessment Model for Logic Circuits
Authors: Xu Xingjian , Ban Tian , Li Yuehua
Published: May 2018

Reliability evaluation by using probabilistic computational models has become an important research field in modern digital designs. Based on the profound understanding of different reliability evaluation methods, this paper proposes a universal model for signal probability and reliability analysis of logic circuits. The proposed Signal Probability Level Matrix (SPLM) provides us with the reliability and signal probability of the entire circuit as well as individual outputs. We can deal with SPLM very flexibly depending on different applications and design constraints. The accuracy and efficiency of the proposed model have been proved and verified by representative circuits in literatures. Furthermore, the proposed model is particularly useful in reliability assessment in cascade-structure circuits such as ripple carry adders.
Elastic and inelastic scattering of α-particles by 20Ne nuclei at energy of 48.8MeV
Authors: Burtebayev N. , Duisebayev A. , Duisebayev B. A. , Zholdybayev T. , Nassurlla Marzhan , Sadykov B. M. , Sakuta S. B. , Nassurlla Maulen
Published: May 2018

Differential cross-sections for the elastic and inelastic scattering of [Formula: see text]-particles had been measured at the energy of 48.8[Formula: see text]MeV with excitation of low-lying states of the [Formula: see text] nucleus. The data for transitions to the ground [Formula: see text] and excited [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] states relating to the ground state band were analyzed in the framework of the optical model and the coupled-channel method based on the rotational model. It is shown that the analysis is sensitive not only to the magnitude, but also to the sign of the quadrupole and hexadecapole deformations. The extracted values of the parameters [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are in good agreement with the results of other experiments on the scattering of protons, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]-particles and correspond to the data known from the electron scattering and Coulomb excitation.
Synthesis and Characterization of Gold-Silver Nanoparticles in Deionized Water by Pulsed Laser Ablation (PLAL) Technique at Different Laser Parameter
Authors: Norsyuhada W. , Mohd Shukri W. , Bakhtiar Hazri , Islam Shumaila , Bidin Noriah
Published: May 2018

Gold and silver nanoparticles (NPs) are physically synthesized using Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG)-pulsed laser ablation in liquid (PLAL) technique which is a rapid, simple and efficient one-step synthesis. The gold and silver colloidal solutions are separately prepared by 1064[Formula: see text]nm of pulsed laser ablation of metallic target (gold and silver) which is immersed in deionized water. Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis) analysis shows the absorption band of gold and silver NPs at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm, respectively. The absorption spectra and color variations of gold and silver NPs at three different laser parameters (output laser energies, target distances from focal point and laser time exposures). High-resolution transmission electron microscopy shows the spherical shape of gold and silver NPs with 34[Formula: see text]nm and 33[Formula: see text]nm diameter of size, respectively, are reported. The aggregation and particle sizes of gold and silver NPs due to minimum energy (75[Formula: see text]mJ) and maximum energy (311[Formula: see text]mJ) are observed.
Using Nitrated Lignosulfonates for the Synthesis of a Water-Based Magnetic Fluid
Authors: Khabarov Yuriy Germanovich , Veshnyakov Viacheslav , Komarova Galina , Kuzyakov Nikolay , Chukhchin Dmitry
Published: May 2018

Nitrated lignosulfonates were used to synthesize a water-based magnetic fluid. Lignosulfonates were nitrated by nitric acid under mild conditions and without further purification were used to synthesize a magnetic fluid. Part of the iron(II) were oxidized with an excess of nitric acid, so that the magnetoactive phase under the condensation by action of sodium hydroxide was formed. Optimum conditions for nitration of lignosulfonates and synthesis of a magnetic fluid were experimentally established. The optimum consumption of iron(II) was 1.3–1.5[Formula: see text]g per 1[Formula: see text]g of sodium lignosulfonate. Unlike the initial lignosulfonates, nitrated lignosulfonates have peptizing properties, due to which the precipitate formed during condensation was dispersed to nanoparticles (15–30[Formula: see text]nm). The resulting magnetic fluid had a high magnetic activity and was stable for a long time.
A two-step mechanism in nucleation of solid silica from Fe-O-Si melt
Authors: Zhao Yang , Wang Guocheng , Tian Qianren , Wang Qi , Song Yulai
Published: May 2018

In order to control the structure and size distribution of silica inclusions in high purity steel, it is necessary to understand the nucleation mechanism of solid silica in molten steel. In high temperature reactions, crystallization begins with nucleation, which plays a crucial role in determining the structure and size of solid products. Nucleation originates in the formation of product intermediates. The structure and thermodynamic properties of silica clusters as the intermediate of solid silica products during nucleation were calculated by density functional theory. Comparison of thermodynamic properties of silica clusters and silicon deoxidation equilibrium experiment in liquid iron results shows the silica clusters with most of the dissolved silicon and oxygen in equilibrium; the molten iron silicon deoxidation reaction ([Si] [Formula: see text] [O] [Formula: see text] cannot reach thermodynamic equilibrium state, and some deoxidation products could only exist in the form of silica clusters but not the solid silica. Therefore, the nucleation process of solid silica in Fe-O-Si melt can be considered as a two-step process with silica clusters as intermediates. Finally, there are two paths of solid silica inclusion formation: one is that in the molten iron, the dissolved silicon reacts with the dissolved oxygen to form silica clusters, and clusters further nucleate and grow up; the second one is that silica clusters directly crystallized during the cooling process of the melt.
Toward an Enterprise Growth Framework for Entering the Base of the Pyramid Market: A Systematic Review
Authors: van der Merwe Michael D. , Grobbelaar Sara S. , Schutte Cornelius S. L. , von Leipzig Konrad H.
Published: May 2018

Enterprise growth has long been viewed as a strong success indicator. The literature on enterprise growth is however fragmented. This paper determines the major factors identified in the literature that can be attributed for promoting enterprise growth, linking them to success criteria for for-profit enterprises operating at the base of the pyramid (BOP) market. The rationale behind enterprises entering the BOP is the simultaneous alleviation of poverty and generation of profits. Via a grounded theory (qualitative analysis) approach, 25 enterprise growth factors were identified and the internal, business strategy related, start-up phase influencing factors were applied to BOP oriented enterprises, culminating in an operational framework.
Mobile Technology Dependence and Mobile Technostress
Authors: Mak Brenda , Nickerson Robert C. , Sim Janet
Published: May 2018

Rapid development in mobile technologies has brought about changes in human behavior and social relationships. The mobile revolution has brought about changes in technology dependence. It has also increased technostress. This research studies the mobile technology dependence construct. A survey was conducted among mobile phone users. Structural equation models were used to analyze the results. Results indicated that connecting to work, location based services, and sense of security, are important factors of the mobile technology dependence construct, and that increased technology dependence leads to increased mobile technostress, and increased discontinuance intentions. Implications of the findings are examined.
Modeling impulsive resource inputs in host–parasitoid interactions with time delays
Authors: Liu Shouzong , Huang Mingzhan , Song Xinyu , Li Shuai , Cheng Huidong
Published: May 2018

For the interaction of parasitoids and their insect hosts in the laboratory environment, a novel mathematical model with impulsive resource inputs, stage-structure, maturation delays and negative binomial distribution is proposed. Based on the adaptability of the insect host to the environment, we study the permanence of the system in two cases and gain conditions under which the host and parasitoid species can coexist with impulsive resource inputs. We also discuss the existence of the positive periodic solution when the system is permanent by applying a fixed point theory. Besides, we perform numerical simulations which not only confirm but also further enhance our theoretical results. The simulations show that when total input of resource is fixed, smaller input amounts with shorter periods of impulsive delivery produce smaller oscillation amplitudes for both the host and parasitoid populations at the juvenile stage. However, both the densities of adult host and adult parasitoid are not affected by the resource management strategy. Furthermore, we also reconfirm that larger maturation delays, either the host or the parasitoid’s delay, lead to any more individuals staying at the inmature stage of the species, while the adult populations decline dramatically at the same time. On the other hand, larger host maturation delays promote the parasitoid’s population growth at both stages, and the impact of parasitoid maturation delay on the host population is almost the same but not as dramatic. These findings give us a deeper understanding about the host–parasitoid interaction in laboratory environment.
Global stability for a multi-group SVIR model with age of vaccination
Authors: Wang Chuncheng , Fan Dejun , Xia Ling , Yi Xiaoyu
Published: May 2018

In this paper, a multi-group SVIR epidemic model with age of vaccination is considered. The model allows the vaccinated individuals to become susceptible after the vaccine loses its protective properties, and the vaccination classes satisfy first-order the partial differential equations structured by vaccination age. Combining the Lyapunov functional method with a graph-theoretic approach, we show that the global stability of endemic equilibrium for the strongly connected system is determined by the basic reproduction number. In addition, the dynamics for non-strongly connected model are also investigated, depending on the basic reproduction numbers corresponding to each strongly connected component. Numerical simulations are carried out to support the theoretical conclusions.
Original askiatic imaging used in Chinese medicine eye-feature diagnosis of visceral diseases
Authors: Xue Ning , Jiang Kai , Li Qi , Zhang Lili , Ma Li , Wang Ruliang , Fu Rongxin , Lin Xue , Su Ya , Jin Xiangyu , Lin Rongzan , Huang Guoliang
Published: May 2018

Eye-feature diagnosis is a time-honored method for studying many diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. There is a close relationship between eye-feature and viscera, and eye-feature is a reflection of visceral health status. Commercially used ophthalmology diagnosis instruments have disadvantages and cannot satisfy the requirements of eye-feature diagnosis. In this paper, we proposed a novel askiatic imaging method that removes the interference of an illumination source’s reflection shadow and is free from image splicing. We developed a novel imaging system to implement this method, and some eye-feature characteristics to analyze visceral diseases were obtained.
Synthesis and conductive performance of quaternary heteropoly acid H5SiW9Mo2VO40⋅13H2O
Authors: Xie Zhirong , Wu Qingyin , He Fengwei , Ai Limei
Published: May 2018

A novel molybdenum- and vanadium-substituted quaternary heteropoly acid H5SiW9Mo2VO40[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]13H2O has been synthesized and characterized by IR, UV, TG-DTA and XRD. The proton conductive performance was studied by the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), which demonstrated that H5SiW9Mo2VO40[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]13H2O shows excellent proton conduction performance with proton conductivity reaching [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]S[Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text] at 60∘C and 80% relative humidity. In the temperature range of measurements, conductivity enhances with higher temperature. The proton conductive mechanism of this new heteropoly acid is the vehicle mechanism due to the activation energy of 31.91[Formula: see text]kJ [Formula: see text] mol[Formula: see text].
Trap modification and mechanoluminescence improvement by Si substitution for Sn in Sr2SnO4:Sm3+ ceramics
Authors: Fang Hua , Qiu Gaojian , Wang Xusheng , Li Yanxia , Yao Xi
Published: May 2018

A series of Sr[Formula: see text]Sn[Formula: see text]SixO4:0.04Sm[Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text], 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4) were synthesized from solid-state reaction. The mechanoluminescence (ML) performance of Sr[Formula: see text]SnO4:0.04Sm[Formula: see text] was greatly enhanced by partial Si[Formula: see text] substitution for Sn[Formula: see text], and the sample of Sr[Formula: see text]Sn[Formula: see text]Si[Formula: see text]O4:0.04Sm[Formula: see text] showed weaker afterglow and twice stronger ML intensity than that in Sr[Formula: see text] SnO4:0.04Sm[Formula: see text]. The stress response of Sr[Formula: see text]Sn[Formula: see text]Si[Formula: see text]O4:0.04Sm[Formula: see text] ranged from 250 to 1200 N, and its linearity was greatly restored. Particularly, it was very sensitive in the minimal stress response range. These properties of no load threshold for stress sensing and weak afterglow make Sr[Formula: see text]Sn[Formula: see text]Si[Formula: see text]O4:0.04Sm[Formula: see text] superior to other excellent ML materials. The introduction of Si[Formula: see text] caused lattice distortion and promoted defect formation in the system. The trap level energy greatly increased and the trap depth changed, which enhanced the trap ability and therefore improved effectively the ML properties.
Sol–Gel Synthesis of Nickel-Doped Cr2O3 Thin Films
Authors: Zekaik Ahlam , Benhebal Hadj , Benrabah Bedhiaf , Chibout Aziza , Tayebi Nacera , Kharroubi Abdelmalek , Ammari Aek , Dalache Cherifa
Published: May 2018

This work presents an experimental study dedicated to the synthesis and characterization of pure and Ni-doped chromium (III) oxide thin films. Sol–gel thin films with doping rates of 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% were deposited onto glass substrates by the dip-coating method at room temperature using Cr(NO3)3: 9H2O as precursor. Using X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), and impedance spectroscopy on solids, we noted that the films are polycrystalline with a grain size ranging from 11.2[Formula: see text]nm to 24.4[Formula: see text]nm, the synthesized materials are highly transparent in the visible light with more than 90% of transmittance and have an optical bandgap less than 3.0[Formula: see text]eV overall, and the equivalent circuit of the deposited films is a resistors and capacitors (RC) parallel circuit.
Critical Infrastructure in Sectoral Planning: The Example of the Development and Expansion of the Extra High Voltage Network in Germany
Authors: Riegel Christoph
Published: May 2018

The power network is among the most of critical infrastructures. In Germany, multiple circumstances, triggered by social and political processes of decarbonization and nuclear phaseout, require extensive grid expansion activities. The paper analyzes coincidences of security and reliability aspects with transmission infrastructure planning. It explores essential properties that determine the criticality of power grids, examines to what extent security is subject of grid expansion procedures and finally focuses on selected security-related spatial planning issues such as the concentration of infrastructures or the pros and cons of overhead lines vs. underground cables.
The AIIB and China-ASEAN Relations: Shaping a New North-South Paradigm
Authors: Daksueva Olga , Yilmaz Serafettin
Published: May 2018

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), one of the largest investment institutions in the world, was established in 2015. The launch of the China-initiated AIIB generated intense debate among scholars and politicians over the functions and potential economic and political implications of the institution. This paper aims to examine the AIIB from a normative perspective, investigating its role as a cursor for structural changes in China’s foreign policy conceptualization. It goes on to hypothesize that, over the past few years, there has been a gradual transformation in China’s relations with Southeast Asian countries, which indicates a shift from a traditional “South-South” model to a “North-South” model. It observes that as Beijing continues to promote its own brand of frameworks and institutions, the emerging North-South paradigm will likely be further emphasized, transforming China’s position vis-a-vis other nations and groupings. Nevertheless, China as an emerging Northern country will continue to experiment on and develop this new North-South interaction in a way that is distinct from the orthodox North-South dyadic relationship.