bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metaheuristic Search Algorithms in Solving the n-Similarity Problem
Authors: Mirhosseini Mina , Nezamabadi-pour Hossein
Published: April 2017

The - similarity problem, finding a group of objects which have the most similarity to each other, has become an important issue in information retrieval and data mining. The theory of this concept is mathematically proven, but it practically has high time complexity. Binary Genetic Algorithm (BGA) has been applied to improve solutions quality of this problem, but a more efficient algorithm is required. Therefore, we aim to study and compare the performance of four metaheuristic algorithms called Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA), Imperialist Competitive Algorithm (ICA) and Fuzzy Imperialist Competitive Algorithm (FICA) to tackle this problem. The experiments are conducted on two applications; the former is on four UCI datasets as a general application and the latter is on the text resemblance application to detect multiple similar text documents from Reuters datasets as a case study. The results of experiments give a ranking of the algorithms in solving the -similarity problem in both applications based on the exploration and exploitation abilities, that the FICA achieves the first rank in both applications as well as based on the both criteria.
Magnetic field and force output analysis of tubular linear machines with two structure topologies
Authors: Yan Liang , Zhang Lu , Zhao Yijing , Jiao Zongxia
Published: April 2017

Arrangement of permanent magnet (PM) poles and windings influences the magnetic field and force output of linear machines significantly. Various designs of PM linear machines have been proposed by researchers, either putting PM poles inside and coils outside, or vice versa. However, there is no systematic comparison of these two types of designs in literatures. The purpose of this study is to compare the magnetic field and force output of linear machines with different PM and winding structure topologies. Halbach array can not only produce high flux density, but also has self-shielding effect. So it is employed for the analysis. Tubular structure is used because it helps to reduce flux leakage and enhance the system output performance. The magnetic field distribution of tubular linear motors with internal and external PM poles are formulated with Bessel functions, and the force output is thus obtained from Lorenz force law. The analytical models of magnetic field and force output are then validated with numerical computations. By utilizing the verified analytical models, design optimization is conducted with penalty functions for the two machine structures. The magnetic field and force output performance are then compared. It shows that the machine structure with internal PM poles helps to generate high force output. The study in this paper can also be implemented for the design of rotary machines.
Convolution-based scatter correction using kernels combining measurements and Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Bhatia Navnina , Tisseur David , Létang Jean Michel
Published: April 2017

One of the well-recognized challenge of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is scatter contamination within the projection images. Scatter degrades the image quality by decreasing the contrast, introducing cupping and shading artifacts and thus leading to inaccuracies in the reconstructed values. The higher scatter to primary ratio experienced in industrial applications leads to even more important artifacts. Various strategies have been investigated to manage the scatter signal in CBCT projection data. One of these strategies is to calculate the scatter intensity by deconvolution of primary intensity using Scatter Kernel Superposition (SKS). In this paper, we present an approach combining experimental measurements and Monte Carlo simulations to estimate the scatter kernels for industrial applications based on the continuously thickness-adapted kernels strategy with a four-Gaussian modeling of kernels. We compare this approach with an experimental technique based on a two-Gaussian modeling of the kernels. The results obtained prove the superiority of a four-Gaussian model to effectively take into account both the contribution of object and detector scattering as compared to a two-Gaussian approach. We also present the parameterisation of the scatter kernels with respect to object to detector distance. This approach facilitates the use of a single geometry for calculation of scatter kernels over the whole magnification range of the acquisition setup.
Noise indices adjusted to body mass index and an iterative reconstruction algorithm maintain image quality on low-dose contrast-enhanced liver CT
Authors: Zhao Yongxia , Suo Hongna , Wu Yanmin , Zuo Ziwei , Zhao Sisi , Cheng Shujie
Published: April 2017

OBJECTIVES:

Since body mass index (BMI) affects medical imaging quality or noise due to penetration of the radiation through bodies with varying sizes, this study aims to investigate and determine the optimal BMI-adjusted noise index (NI) setting on the contrast-enhanced liver CT scans obtained using 3D Smart mA technology with adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR 2.0) algorithm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A total of 320 patients who had contrast-enhanced liver CT scans were divided into two equal-sized groups: A (18.5 kg/m2≤BMI<24.9 kg/m2) and B (24.9 kg/m2 ≤ BMI ≤34.9 kg/m2). The two groups were randomly divided into four subgroups with an NI of 11, 13, 15, and 17. All images were reconstructed with 50% ASIR 2.0. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were calculated after the late arterial, portal venous, and equilibrium phases were completed. Images were evaluated by two radiologists using a subjective 0 –5 scale. Mean CT dose index of volume, dose-length product, and effective dose (ED) were calculated and compared using one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS:

In group A, the best-quality images obtained at the lowest ED were scanned at an NI of 15 in the late arterial phase, and at an NI of 17 in the portal venous and equilibrium phases. In group B, the best results were obtained at an NI of 13 in the late arterial phase, and at an NI of 15 in the portal venous and equilibrium phases.

CONCLUSION:

Adjusting NI and iterative reconstruction algorithm based on body mass index can help improve image quality on contrast-enhanced liver CT scans, even at low radiation dose.
Characteristics of Carbonaceous Aerosol in a Typical Industrial City—Nanjing in Yangtze River Delta, China: Size Distributions, Seasonal Variations, and Sources
Authors: Wang Honglei , An Junlin , Zhu Bin , Shen Lijuan , Duan Qing , Shi Yuanzhe
Published: April 2017

In order to investigate the size distributions and seasonal variations of carbonaceous aerosols (organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon (EC)), the carbonaceous species were collected in Nanjing, a typical industrial city located in Yangtze River Delta, China, in the summer, autumn, and winter of 2013 and spring of 2014, and then analyzed by using a 9-stage Anderson-type aerosol sampler and DRI Model 2001A Thermal/Optical Carbon Analyzer. OC, EC, secondary organic carbon (SOC), and primary organic carbon (POC) exhibited obvious seasonal variations, with the highest levels in winter (39.1±14.0, 5.7 ± 2.1, 23.6 ± 11.7, and 14.1 ± 5.7 μg·m−3, respectively) and the lowest levels in summer (20.6 ± 6.7, 3.3 ± 2.0, 12.2 ± 3.8 and 8.4 ± 4.1 μg·m−3, respectively), and were mainly centralized in PM1.1 in four seasons. The concentrations of OC in PM1.1 varied in the order of winter > autumn > spring > summer, while EC ranked in the order of autumn > winter > summer > spring. In the PM1.1–2.1 and PM2.1–10, the concentrations of OC and EC decreased in the sequence of winter > spring > autumn > summer. The size spectra of OC, EC, and SOC had bimodal distributions in four seasons, except for EC with four peaks in summer. The size spectra of POC varied greatly with seasons, exhibiting bimodal distribution in winter, trimodal distribution in spring and summer, and four peaks in autumn. The OC/EC ratios were 7.0, 6.3, 7.6, and 6.9 in spring, summer, autumn and winter, respectively, which demonstrated the abundance of secondary organic aerosols in Nanjing. The sources of carbonaceous aerosol varied significantly with seasons, and were dominated by vehicle exhaust, and coal and biomass burning in PM2.1, and dominated by dust, and coal and biomass burning in PM2.1–10.
Recyclable Polymer-Supported Terpyridine–Palladium Complex for the Tandem Aminocarbonylation of Aryl Iodides to Primary Amides in Water Using NaN3 as Ammonia Equivalent
Authors: Suzuka Toshimasa , Sueyoshi Hiromu , Ogihara Kazuhito
Published: April 2017

Primary aromatic amides are valuable compounds, which are generally prepared via Beckmann rearrangement of oximes and the hydration of nitriles in organic solvents. We investigated the environmentally friendly catalytic aminocarbonylation in water. Thus, a novel heterogeneous transition-metal catalyst, a polymer-supported terpyridine–palladium(II) complex, was prepared and found to promote azidocarbonylation of aryl iodides with NaN3 and to reduce the generated benzoyl azides in water under CO gas to yield primary aryl amides with high to excellent yield in a one-pot reaction. The catalyst was recovered and reused several times with no loss of catalytic activity.
The Case for the Use of Nurse Practitioners in the Care of Children with Medical Complexity
Authors: Samuels Cheryl , Harris Tomika , Gonzales Traci , Mosquera Ricardo
Published: April 2017

Although children with medically complex illness represent less than one percent of the total pediatric population, their health care expenditures and health care system utilization far exceed the numbers of other pediatric patients. Nurse practitioners, with their educational background focused on health care promotion and education, are uniquely qualified to reduce this inequity with cost effective care. Currently, nurse practitioners are used in a variety of health care settings and can provide acute and chronic care. Incorporating nurse practitioners at each step in the care of children with medical complexity can improve the quality of life for these children and their families, increase family satisfaction and decrease costs.
Pressure Injuries in Medically Complex Children: A Review
Authors: Freundlich Katherine
Published: April 2017

Pressure injuries are a challenging problem in the care of medically complex children. Available evidence is limited, and there are theoretical reasons to use caution before extrapolating adult data, including key differences in body composition, common locations of pressure injury, and association with medical devices. The focus of this article will be to review the definition of a pressure injury and what is known about pathophysiology, prevention, recognition, staging, and treatment of pressure injuries in children with medical complexity.
Structure and Optical Properties of K0.67Rb1.33Al2B2O7 Crystal
Authors: Huang Qian , Liu Lijuan , Xia Mingjun , Yang Yi , Guo Shu , Wang Xiaoyang , Lin Zheshuai , Chen Chuangtian
Published: April 2017

A UV nonlinear optical (NLO) crystal K0.67Rb1.33Al2B2O7 (KRABO) has been obtained by the top-seeded solution growth method for the first time. Its structure is formed of coplanar [BO3]3− triangle groups and [Al2O7]8− groups, which are built from two [AlO4]5− tetrahedra sharing one vertex. Rb and K atoms have the same coordinates and locate between each layer in a disorderly fashion. The crystal has a larger NLO effect compared with its analog K2Al2B2O7 (KABO), as evidenced by powder second harmonic generation (SHG) test. The shortest SHG phase-matching wavelength is down to 231 nm according to the first-principle calculation, which indicates that KRABO is possible for the fourth harmonic generation of Nd:YAG at 266 nm.
Combined Conformal Strongly-Coupled Magnetic Resonance for Efficient Wireless Power Transfer
Authors: Rozman Matjaz , Fernando Michael , Adebisi Bamidele , Rabie Khaled , Kharel Rupak , Ikpehai Augustine , Gacanin Haris
Published: April 2017

This paper proposes a hybrid circuit between a conformal strongly-coupled magnetic resonance (CSCMR) and a strongly-coupled magnetic resonance (SCMR), for better wireless power transmission (WPT). This combination promises to enhance the flexibility of the proposed four-loop WPT system. The maximum efficiency at various distances is achieved by combining coupling-matching between the source and transmitting coils along with the coupling factor between the transmitting and receiving coils. Furthermore, the distance between transmitting and receiving coils is investigated along with the distance relationship between the source loop and transmission coil, in order to achieve the maximum efficiency of the proposed hybrid WPT system. The results indicate that the proposed approach can be effectively employed at distances comparatively smaller than the maximum distance without frequency matching. The achievable efficiency can be as high as 84% for the whole working range of the transmitter. In addition, the proposed hybrid system allows more spatial freedom compared to existing chargers.
Examining the Feasibilities of Industry 4.0 for the Hospitality Sector with the Lens of Management Practice
Authors: Shamim Saqib , Cang Shuang , Yu Hongnian , Li Yun
Published: April 2017

Industry 4.0 and its impact in the manufacturing sector are well documented. However, the service sector is understudied, and it is also facing the challenges of mass customization, digital enhancement, smart work environment, and efficient supply chain. The aim of this study is to fill this research gap by exploring the issues of Industry 4.0 in the service sector, with cases in the hospitality industry. All the challenges of Industry 4.0 require continuous innovation and learning, which is dependent on people and the enterprise’s capabilities. Appropriate management approaches can play a vital role in the development of dynamic capabilities, and an effective learning and innovation environment. This paper proposes a framework of management practices which can promote the environment of innovation and learning in an organization, and hence facilitate business to match the pace of Industry 4.0 by facilitating technology acceptance e.g., digital enhancements and implementation of cyber physical systems (CPS). This study integrates the literature with logical beliefs to suggest the appropriate management practices for Industry 4.0. It represents one of the initial attempts to draw research attention towards the important role of management practices in Industry 4.0, as most of the recent studies have been restricted to the technological aspects. Semi-structured interviews of hospitality employees are conducted to explore the management practices suitable for meeting the challenges of Industry 4.0, specifically for informing the service sector.
Participation and Privacy Perception in Virtual Environments: The Role of Sense of Community, Culture and Gender between Italian and Turkish
Authors: Guazzini Andrea , Saraç Ayça , Donati Camillo , Nardi Annalisa , Vilone Daniele , Meringolo Patrizia
Published: April 2017

Advancements in information and communication technologies have enhanced our possibilities to communicate worldwide, eliminating borders and making it possible to interact with people coming from other cultures like never happened before. Such powerful tools have brought us to reconsider our concept of privacy and social involvement in order to make them fit into this wider environment. It is possible to claim that the information and communication technologies (ICT) revolution is changing our world and is having a core role as a mediating factor for social movements (e.g., Arab spring) and political decisions (e.g., Brexit), shaping the world in a faster and shared brand new way. It is then interesting to explore how the perception of this brand new environment (in terms of social engagement, privacy perception and sense of belonging to a community) differs even in similar cultures separated by recent historical reasons. Recent historical events may in effect have shaped a different psychological representation of Participation, Privacy and Sense of Community in ICT environments, determining a different perception of affordances and concerns of these complex behaviors. The aim of this research is to examine the relation between the constructs of Sense of Community, Participation and Privacy compared with culture and gender, considering the changes that have occurred in the last few years with the introduction of the web environment. A questionnaire, including ad hoc created scales for Participation and Privacy, have been administered to 180 participants from Turkey and Italy. In order to highlight the cultural differences in the perception of these two constructs, we have provided a semantic differential to both sub-samples showing interesting outcomes. The results are then discussed while taking into account the recent history of both countries in terms of the widespread of new technologies, political actions and protest movements.
Association between Indices of Body Composition and Abnormal Metabolic Phenotype in Normal-Weight Chinese Adults
Authors: Xia Lili , Dong Fen , Gong Haiying , Xu Guodong , Wang Ke , Liu Fen , Pan Li , Zhang Ling , Yan Yuxiang , Gaisano Herbert , He Yan , Shan Guangliang
Published: April 2017

We aimed to determine the association of indices of body composition with abnormal metabolic phenotype, and to examine whether the strength of association was differentially distributed in different age groups in normal-weight Chinese adults. A total of 3015 normal-weight adults from a survey of Chinese people encompassing health and basic physiological parameters was included in this cross-sectional study. We investigated the association of body composition measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis and conventional body indices with metabolically unhealthy normal-weight (MUHNW) adults, divided by age groups and gender. Associations were assessed by multiple logistic regression analysis. We found abnormal metabolism in lean Chinese adults to be associated with higher adiposity indices (body mass index, BMI), waist circumference, and percentage body fat), lower skeletal muscle %, and body water %. Body composition was differentially distributed in age groups within the metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW)/MUHNW groups. The impact of factors related to MUHNW shows a decreasing trend with advancing age in females and disparities of factors (BMI, body fat %, skeletal muscle %, and body water %) associated with the MUHNW phenotype in the elderly was noticed. Those factors remained unchanged in males throughout the age range, while the association of BMI, body fat %, skeletal muscle %, and body water % to MUHNW attenuated and grip strength emerged as a protective factor in elderly females. These results suggest that increased adiposity and decreased skeletal muscle mass are associated with unfavorable metabolic traits in normal-weight Chinese adults, and that MUHNW is independent of BMI, while increased waist circumference appears to be indicative of an abnormal metabolic phenotype in elderly females.
Disparities in HIV Clinical Outcomes among a Cohort of HIV-Infected Persons Receiving Care—Mississippi
Authors: Dehghani Firouzabadi Ali , McDonald Tiffany , Samms Tametria , Sirous Reza , Johnson Kendra
Published: April 2017

Increasing patients’ cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) count and achieving viral suppression are the ultimate goals of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care and treatment, yet disparities in these HIV clinical outcomes exist among subpopulations of HIV-infected persons. We aimed to assess potential disparities in viral suppression and normal CD4 count among HIV-infected persons receiving care in Mississippi using Mississippi Medical Monitoring Project (MMP) data from 2009 to 2014 (N = 1233) in this study. Outcome variables in this study were suppressed, recent and durable viral load, and normal CD4 count. Patients’ characteristics in this study were race, gender, age, annual income, education, insurance, and length of diagnosis. Descriptive statistics, Chi square tests, and logistic regression analyses were conducted using the SAS 9.4 Proc Survey procedure. Our findings indicate that those aged 50 years or older were more likely to have suppressed recent viral load (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) = 2.4) and durable viral loads (aOR = 2.9), compared to those aged 18–24 years. In addition, women were more likely to have a normal CD4 count than men (aOR = 1.4). In conclusion, we found that age and gender disparities in HIV clinical outcomes may be used to develop and implement multifaceted interventions to improve health equity among all HIV-infected patients.
Screening for Cd-Safe Cultivars of Chinese Cabbage and a Preliminary Study on the Mechanisms of Cd Accumulation
Authors: Wang Jingjie , Yu Nan , Mu Guangmao , Shinwari Kamran , Shen Zhenguo , Zheng Luqing
Published: April 2017

With the rapid progress of industrialization, the effects of environmental contamination on plant toxicity, and subsequently on human health, is a growing concern. For example, the heavy metal pollution of soil such as that caused by cadmium (Cd) is a serious threat. Therefore, screening for pollution-safe edible plants is an essential approach for growing plants under heavy metal-contaminated soils. In the current study, 35 Chinese cabbage (Brassica pekinensis L.) cultivars were selected with the aim of screening for Cd-safe cultivars (CSCs), analyzing their safety, and exploring the mechanism of Cd accumulation. Our field-culture experiments revealed that the Cd content in the edible parts of the cultivars were varied and were determined to possibly be CSCs. Hydroponics experiments were used to simulate six different degrees of soil contamination (high and low Cd concentrations) on possible CSCs. The results indicated a significant difference (p < 0.05) in Cd concentration in the cultivars, and verified the safety of these possible CSCs. The analyses of the transport coefficient and expression levels showed that the differences in Cd accumulation among the Chinese cabbage cultivars were related to the expression of genes involved in absorption and transport rather than a root-to-shoot translocation limitation.
Uncertainties in Classification System Conversion and an Analysis of Inconsistencies in Global Land Cover Products
Authors: Zhang Miao , Ma Mingguo , De Maeyer Philippe , Kurban Alishir
Published: April 2017

In this study, using the common classification systems of IGBP-17, IGBP-9, IPCC-5 and TC (vegetation, wetlands and others only), we studied spatial and areal inconsistencies in the three most recent multi-resource land cover products in a complex mountain-oasis-desert system and quantitatively discussed the uncertainties in classification system conversion. This is the first study to compare these products based on terrain and to quantitatively study the uncertainties in classification system conversion. The inconsistencies and uncertainties decreased from high to low levels of aggregation (IGBP-17 to TC) and from mountain to desert areas, indicating that the inconsistencies are not only influenced by the level of thematic detail and landscape complexity but also related to the conversion uncertainties. The overall areal inconsistency in the comparison of the FROM-GLC and GlobCover 2009 datasets is the smallest among the three pairs, but the smallest overall spatial inconsistency was observed between the FROM-GLC and MODISLC. The GlobCover 2009 had the largest conversion uncertainties due to mosaic land cover definition, with values up to 23.9%, 9.68% and 0.11% in mountainous, oasis and desert areas, respectively. The FROM-GLC had the smallest inconsistency, with values less than 4.58%, 1.89% and 1.2% in corresponding areas. Because the FROM-GLC dataset uses a hierarchical classification scheme with explicit attribution from the second level to the first, this system is suggested for producers of map land cover products in the future.
Interpolation and Prediction of Spatiotemporal Data Based on XML Integrated with Grey Dynamic Model
Authors: Bai Luyi , Yan Li , Ma Zongmin
Published: April 2017

Interpolation and prediction of spatiotemporal data are integral components of many real-world applications. Thus, approaches of interpolating and predicting spatiotemporal data have been extensively investigated. Currently, the grey dynamic model has been used to enhance the performance of interpolating and predicting spatiotemporal data. Meanwhile, the Extensible Markup Language (XML) has unique characteristics of information representation and exchange. In this paper, we first couple the grey dynamic model with the spatiotemporal XML model. Based on a definition of the position part of the spatiotemporal XML model, we extract the corresponding position information of each time interval and propose an algorithm for constructing an AVL tree to store them. Then, we present the architecture of an interpolating and predicting process and investigate change operations in positions. On this basis, we present an algorithm for interpolation and prediction of spatiotemporal data based on XML integrated with the grey dynamic model. Experimental results demonstrate the performance advantages of the proposed approach.
Prp19 Arrests Cell Cycle via Cdc5L in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Huang Renzheng , Xue Ruyi , Qu Di , Yin Jie , Shen Xi-Zhong
Published: April 2017

Pre-mRNA processing factor 19 (Prp19) is involved in many cellular events including pre-mRNA processing and DNA damage response. Recently, it has been identified as a candidate oncogene in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the role of Prp19 in tumor biology is still elusive. Here, we reported that Prp19 arrested cell cycle in HCC cells via regulating G2/M transition. Mechanistic insights revealed that silencing Prp19 inhibited the expression of cell division cycle 5-like (Cdc5L) via repressing the translation of Cdc5L mRNA and facilitating lysosome-mediated degradation of Cdc5L in HCC cells. Furthermore, we found that silencing Prp19 induced cell cycle arrest could be partially resumed by overexpressing Cdc5L. This work implied that Prp19 participated in mitotic progression and thus could be a promising therapeutic target of HCC.
The Effect of Low-Dose Proteasome Inhibition on Pre-Existing Atherosclerosis in LDL Receptor-Deficient Mice
Authors: Wilck Nicola , Fechner Mandy , Dan Cristian , Stangl Verena , Stangl Karl , Ludwig Antje
Published: April 2017

Dysfunction of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) has been implicated in atherosclerosis development. However, the nature of UPS dysfunction has been proposed to be specific to certain stages of atherosclerosis development, which has implications for proteasome inhibition as a potential treatment option. Recently, low-dose proteasome inhibition with bortezomib has been shown to attenuate early atherosclerosis in low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (LDLR−/−) mice. The present study investigates the effect of low-dose proteasome inhibition with bortezomib on pre-existing advanced atherosclerosis in LDLR−/− mice. We found that bortezomib treatment of LDLR−/− mice with pre-existing atherosclerosis does not alter lesion burden. Additionally, macrophage infiltration of aortic root plaques, total plasma cholesterol levels, and pro-inflammatory serum markers were not influenced by bortezomib. However, plaques of bortezomib-treated mice exhibited larger necrotic core areas and a significant thinning of the fibrous cap, indicating a more unstable plaque phenotype. Taking recent studies on favorable effects of proteasome inhibition in early atherogenesis into consideration, our data support the hypothesis of stage-dependent effects of proteasome inhibition in atherosclerosis.
Advances in Skin Regeneration Using Tissue Engineering
Authors: Vig Komal , Chaudhari Atul , Tripathi Shweta , Dixit Saurabh , Sahu Rajnish , Pillai Shreekumar , Dennis Vida , Singh Shree
Published: April 2017

Tissue engineered skin substitutes for wound healing have evolved tremendously over the last couple of years. New advances have been made toward developing skin substitutes made up of artificial and natural materials. Engineered skin substitutes are developed from acellular materials or can be synthesized from autologous, allograft, xenogenic, or synthetic sources. Each of these engineered skin substitutes has their advantages and disadvantages. However, to this date, a complete functional skin substitute is not available, and research is continuing to develop a competent full thickness skin substitute product that can vascularize rapidly. There is also a need to redesign the currently available substitutes to make them user friendly, commercially affordable, and viable with longer shelf life. The present review focuses on providing an overview of advances in the field of tissue engineered skin substitute development, the availability of various types, and their application.
Correlation Coefficient between Dynamic Single Valued Neutrosophic Multisets and Its Multiple Attribute Decision-Making Method
Authors: Ye Jun
Published: April 2017

Based on dynamic information collected from different time intervals in some real situations, this paper firstly proposes a dynamic single valued neutrosophic multiset (DSVNM) to express dynamic information and operational relations of DSVNMs. Then, a correlation coefficient between DSVNMs and a weighted correlation coefficient between DSVNMs are presented to measure the correlation degrees between DSVNMs, and their properties are investigated. Based on the weighted correlation coefficient of DSVNMs, a multiple attribute decision-making method is established under a DSVNM environment, in which the evaluation values of alternatives with respect to attributes are collected from different time intervals and are represented by the form of DSVNMs. The ranking order of alternatives is performed through the weighted correlation coefficient between an alternative and the ideal alternative, which is considered by the attribute weights and the time weights, and thus the best one(s) can also be determined. Finally, a practical example shows the application of the proposed method.
Preparation for Working in a Knowledge-Based Society: New Zealand Student Nurses’ Use of Social Media
Authors: Honey Michelle , Raphael Deborah
Published: April 2017

The increasing use of social media is revolutionizing the way students learn, communicate and collaborate. Many of the skills used with social media are similar to those needed to work in a knowledge-based society. To better understand student nurses’ use of social media in relation to their learning, an anonymous survey was distributed to all undergraduate nursing students enrolled at one nursing school in New Zealand in 2015. A 75% response rate (n = 226) found that almost all (99%) students use social media outside their studies. However, in relation to their study, 61% use social networking sites (such as Facebook) on a daily basis and only four students (2%) do not use social media at all. Professional networking sites are used far less in relation to study, with 65% not using these networks at all. The most common digital option used to communicate and work with fellow students was online groups and document sharing sites, such as Google docs, were also popular. The study provides a useful baseline on social media use by student nurses. Implications from this study include opportunities for educators to incorporate social media into teaching and learning activities, including its safe and ethical use.
Short-Term Nitrogen and Phosphorus Release during the Disturbance of Surface Sediments: A Case Study in an Urbanised Estuarine System (Gold Coast Broadwater, Australia)
Authors: Dunn Ryan , Waltham Nathan , Teasdale Peter , Robertson David , Welsh David
Published: April 2017

Understanding the effects of sediment disturbances on nutrient loadings is important for the management of estuarine settings. This study investigated the initial influence of sediment disturbance on water column nutrient concentrations in a shallow estuarine setting within the Gold Coast Broadwater, using a laboratory-based approach. Undisturbed sediment cores (200 mm Ø × 330 mm length, plexiglass) were incubated before and after being subjected to a disturbance event, to investigate the effect on the immediate and subsequent short-term water column nutrient concentrations. Sediment NH4+bio and PO43−bio concentrations ranged from 150 to 478 and 1.50 to 8.56 nmol g−1 dry wt, respectively. Water column NH4+ concentrations underwent the greatest increase (>1000% or approx. 14 times greater) immediately following disturbance, with mean effluxes increasing by >300%. Thereafter, water column NH4+ concentrations and efflux rates declined to near initial pre-disturbance concentrations. Water column NH4+ concentrations accounted for 0.58%–5.50% of the depth-integrated sediment NH4+bio concentration, indicating mobilization of the sediment bound exchangeable NH4+. The observed changes in PO43− concentrations and fluxes were much lower in comparison to those observed for N-species. Following disturbance, increases in the water column PO43− concentration accounted for 7.16%–8.22% depth-integrated sediment bioavailable PO43− at +1 and +2 hours, and 5.65% at +7 hours, respectively. These results provide important insight into the potential implications of disturbance events, such as vessel activities and dredging operations, within the case study region, providing information for potential management options and relevant water quality concerns.
1-{4-[(Hexyloxy)methyl]pyridin-2-yl}ethanone
Authors: Charrier Florian , Husson Jérôme , Guyard Laurent
Published: April 2017

A new member of the 2-acetylpyridine family has been prepared and characterized. Its synthesis is a two-step process starting from a pyridyl-alcohol in which the ketone moiety is protected as a cyclic acetal. Alkylation of the alcohol followed by hydrolysis of the acetal afforded the title compound in 52% overall yield.
7-Bromo-1-methyl-2-phenyl-1H-indole-3-carbonitrile
Authors: Meine Rosanna , Blech Max , Lindhof Jens , Kunick Conrad
Published: April 2017

The title compound was prepared by electrophilic aromatic substitution of 7-bromo-1-methyl-2-phenyl-1H-indole with NCTS (N-cyano-N-phenyl-p-toluenesulfonamide). The structural identity of the title compound was proven by elemental analysis and spectroscopic methods (IR, NMR, APCI-MS). Purity was assessed by two independent HPLC methods.
Preparation and Optical Properties of Infrared Transparent 3Y-TZP Ceramics
Authors: Wang Chuanfeng , Mao Xiaojian , Peng Ya-Pei , Jiang Benxue , Fan Jintai , Xu Yangyang , Zhang Long , Zhao Jingtai
Published: April 2017

In the present study, a tough tetragonal zirconia polycrystalline (Y-TZP) material was developed for use in high-speed infrared windows and domes. The influence of the preparation procedure and the microstructure on the material’s optical properties was evaluated by SEM and FT-IR spectroscopy. It was revealed that a high transmittance up to 77% in the three- to five-micrometer IR region could be obtained when the sample was pre-sintered at 1225 °C and subjected to hot isostatic pressing (HIP) at 1275 °C for two hours. The infrared transmittance and emittance at elevated temperature were also examined. The in-line transmittance remained stable as the temperature increased to 427 °C, with degradation being observed only near the infrared cutoff edge. Additionally, the emittance property of 3Y-TZP ceramic at high temperature was found to be superior to those of sapphire and spinel. Overall, the results indicate that Y-TZP ceramic is a potential candidate for high-speed infrared windows and domes.
Design and Preparation of Carbon Based Composite Phase Change Material for Energy Piles
Authors: Yang Haibin , Memon Shazim , Bao Xiaohua , Cui Hongzhi , Li Dongxu
Published: April 2017

Energy piles—A fairly new renewable energy concept—Use a ground heat exchanger (GHE) in the foundation piles to supply heating and cooling loads to the supported building. Applying phase change materials (PCMs) to piles can help in maintaining a stable temperature within the piles and can then influence the axial load acting on the piles. In this study, two kinds of carbon-based composite PCMs (expanded graphite-based PCM and graphite nanoplatelet-based PCM) were prepared by vacuum impregnation for potential application in energy piles. Thereafter, a systematic study was performed and different characterization tests were carried out on two composite PCMs. The composite PCMs retained up to 93.1% of paraffin and were chemically compatible, thermally stable and reliable. The latent heat of the composite PCM was up to 152.8 J/g while the compressive strength of cement paste containing 10 wt % GNP-PCM was found to be 37 MPa. Hence, the developed composite PCM has potential for thermal energy storage applications.
Optical Design of Textured Thin-Film CIGS Solar Cells with Nearly-Invisible Nanowire Assisted Front Contacts
Authors: Deelen Joop , Omar Ahmed , Barink Marco
Published: April 2017

The conductivity of transparent front contacts can be improved by patterned metallic nanowires, albeit at the cost of optical loss. The associated optical penalty can be strongly reduced by texturization of the cell stack. Remarkably, the nanowires themselves are not textured and not covered in our design. This was shown by optical modeling where the width of the nanowire, the texture height and the texture period were varied in order to obtain a good insight into the general trends. The optical performance can be improved dramatically as the reflection, which is the largest optical loss, can be reduced by 95% of the original value. The spectra reveal absorption in the Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) layer of 95% and reflection below 2% over a large part of the spectrum. In essence, a virtually black CIGS cell stack can be achieved for textured cells with a metal nanogrid. Moreover, it turned out that the ratio between the width of the nanowire and the height of the texture is a critical parameter for optical losses.
Promoting Wound Healing Using Low Molecular Weight Fucoidan in a Full-Thickness Dermal Excision Rat Model
Authors: Park Jun-Hyeong , Choi Seong-Hun , Park Soo-Jin , Lee Young , Park Jong , Song Phil , Cho Chang-Mo , Ku Sae-Kwang , Song Chang-Hyun
Published: April 2017

Low molecular weight fucoidan (LMF) has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Thus, we examined the effects of LMF extracted from Undaria pinnatifida on dermal wounds. Five round dermal wounds were created on the dorsal back of rats, and they were then treated topically with distilled water (DW), Madecasol Care™ (MC) or LMF at 200, 100 and 50 mg/mL, twice a day for a week. There were dose-dependent increases in wound contraction in the groups receiving LMF but not in the MC group, compared with the DW. Histopathological examination revealed that LMF treatment accelerated wound healing, which was supported by increases in granular tissue formation on day four post-treatment but a decrease on day seven, accompanied by an evident reduction in inflammatory cells. In the LMF-treated wounds, collagen distribution and angiogenesis were increased in the granular tissue on days four and seven post-treatment. Immunoreactive cells for transforming growth factor-β1, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 or matrix metalloproteinases 9 were also increased, probably due to tissue remodeling. Furthermore, LMF treatment reduced lipid peroxidation and increased antioxidant activities. These suggested that LMF promotes dermal wound healing via complex and coordinated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and growth factor-dependent activities.
Dietary Isoflavones and Breast Cancer Risk
Authors: Ziaei Samira , Halaby Reginald
Published: April 2017

Breast cancer is the deadliest neoplasm in women globally, resulting in a significant health burden. In many cases, breast cancer becomes resistant to chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapies. It is believed that genetics is not the major cause of breast cancer. Other contributing risk factors include age at first childbirth, age at menarche, age at menopause, use of oral contraceptives, race and ethnicity, and diet. Diet has been shown to influence breast cancer incidence, recurrence, and prognosis. Soy isoflavones have long been a staple in Asian diets, and there appears to be an increase, albeit modest, compared to Asian populations, in soy consumption among Americans. Isoflavones are phytoestrogens that have antiestrogenic as well as estrogenic effects on breast cancer cells in culture, in animal models, and in clinical trials. This study will investigate anticancer and tumor promoting properties of dietary isoflavones and evaluate their effects on breast cancer development. Furthermore, this work seeks to elucidate the putative molecular pathways by which these phytochemicals modulate breast cancer risk by synergizing or antagonizing the estrogen receptor (ER) and in ER-independent signaling mechanisms.
The Influence of FeO on the Reaction between Fe–Al–Ca Alloy and Al2O3–CaO–FeO Oxide during Heat Treatment at 1473 K
Authors: Liu Chengsong , Yang Shufeng , Li Jingshe , Ni Hongwei , Zhang Xueliang
Published: April 2017

Oxygen diffusion from oxides to an alloy during heat treatment could influence the properties of the alloy and oxides. To clarify the influence of FeO on the solid-state reactions between Al2O3–CaO–FeO oxide and Fe–Al–Ca alloy during heat treatment at 1473 K, three diffusion couples with different FeO concentrations in the oxide were produced. The diffusion couples were subjected to several procedures successively including an oxide pre-melting experiment using a confocal scanning laser microscope to obtain good contact between the alloy and oxide, vacuum sealing to protect the specimens from oxidation, heat treatment, and electron probe X-ray microanalysis. The effects of the FeO content in the oxide on the morphology of the interface between the alloy and oxide, change of elements in the alloy, widths of the particle precipitation zone (PPZ) and aluminum-depleted zone (ADZ), and size distribution of the particles in the alloy, were investigated and discussed. Based on the Wagner equation of internal oxidation of metals, a modified dynamic model to calculate the PPZ width was established to help understand the mechanism of the solid-state reactions and element diffusion between the Fe–Al–Ca alloy and Al2O3–CaO–FeO oxide with different FeO concentrations.
Predicting the Risk of Fault-Induced Water Inrush Using the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System
Authors: Zhou Qinglong , Herrera-Herbert Juan , Hidalgo Arturo
Published: April 2017

Sudden water inrush has been a deadly killer in underground engineering for decades. Currently, especially in developing countries, frequent water inrush accidents still kill a large number of miners every year. In this study, an approach for predicting the probability of fault-induced water inrush in underground engineering using the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) was developed. Six parameters related to the aquifer, the water-resisting properties of the aquifuge and the mining-induced stresses were extracted as the major parameters to construct the ANFIS model. The constructed ANFIS was trained with twenty reported real fault-induced water inrush cases, and another five new cases were used to test the prediction performance of the trained ANFIS. The final results showed that the prediction results of the five cases were completely consistent with the actual situations. This indicates that the ANFIS is highly accurate in the prediction of fault-induced water inrush and suggests that quantitative assessment of fault-induced water inrush using the ANFIS is possible.
Protective Effect of Bicyclol on Anti-Tuberculosis Drug Induced Liver Injury in Rats
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhao Manman , Mi Jiaqi , Chen Hui , Sheng Li , Li Yan
Published: April 2017

The present study was performed to investigate the effect of bicyclol, a synthetic anti-hepatitis drug with anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, on anti-tuberculosis (anti-TB) drug-induced liver injury and related mechanisms in rats. Bicyclol was given to rats by gavage 2 h before the oral administration of an anti-TB drug once a day for 30 days. Liver injury was evaluated by biochemical and histopathological examinations. Lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial function, and the activity of antioxidants were measured by spectrophotometric methods. Cytokines expression and CYP2E1 activity were determined by ELISA assay and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis. The expressions of hepatic CYP2E1 and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) were assessed by Western blotting. As a result, bicyclol significantly protected against anti-TB drug-induced liver injury by reducing the elevated serum aminotransferases levels and accumulation of hepatic lipids. Meanwhile, the histopathological changes were also attenuated in rats. The protective effect of bicyclol on anti-TB drug-induced hepatotoxicity was mainly due to its ability to attenuate oxidative stress, suppress the inflammatory cytokines and CYP2E1 expression, up-regulate the expression of HGF, and improve mitochondrial function. Furthermore, administration of bicyclol had no significant effect on the plasma pharmacokinetics of the anti-TB drug in rats.
Neutron Crystallography for the Study of Hydrogen Bonds in Macromolecules
Authors: Oksanen Esko , Chen Julian C.-H. , Fisher Suzanne Zoë
Published: April 2017

Abstract: The hydrogen bond (H bond) is one of the most important interactions that form the foundation of secondary and tertiary protein structure. Beyond holding protein structures together, H bonds are also intimately involved in solvent coordination, ligand binding, and enzyme catalysis. The H bond by definition involves the light atom, H, and it is very difficult to study directly, especially with X-ray crystallographic techniques, due to the poor scattering power of H atoms. Neutron protein crystallography provides a powerful, complementary tool that can give unambiguous information to structural biologists on solvent organization and coordination, the electrostatics of ligand binding, the protonation states of amino acid side chains and catalytic water species. The method is complementary to X-ray crystallography and the dynamic data obtainable with NMR spectroscopy. Also, as it gives explicit H atom positions, it can be very valuable to computational chemistry where exact knowledge of protonation and solvent orientation can make a large difference in modeling. This article gives general information about neutron crystallography and shows specific examples of how the method has contributed to structural biology, structure-based drug design; and the understanding of fundamental questions of reaction mechanisms.
Dietary Sources and Bioactivities of Melatonin
Authors: Meng Xiao , Li Ya , Li Sha , Zhou Yue , Gan Ren-You , Xu Dong-Ping , Li Hua-Bin
Published: April 2017

Insomnia is a serious worldwide health threat, affecting nearly one third of the general population. Melatonin has been reported to improve sleep efficiency and it was found that eating melatonin-rich foods could assist sleep. During the last decades, melatonin has been widely identified and qualified in various foods from fungi to animals and plants. Eggs and fish are higher melatonin-containing food groups in animal foods, whereas in plant foods, nuts are with the highest content of melatonin. Some kinds of mushrooms, cereals and germinated legumes or seeds are also good dietary sources of melatonin. It has been proved that the melatonin concentration in human serum could significantly increase after the consumption of melatonin containing food. Furthermore, studies show that melatonin exhibits many bioactivities, such as antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory characteristics, boosting immunity, anticancer activity, cardiovascular protection, anti-diabetic, anti-obese, neuroprotective and anti-aging activity. This review summaries the dietary sources and bioactivities of melatonin, with special attention paid to the mechanisms of action.