bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Near Fixed Point Theorems in the Space of Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Wu Hsien-Chung
Published: June 2018

The fuzzy numbers are fuzzy sets owning some elegant mathematical structures. The space consisting of all fuzzy numbers cannot form a vector space because it lacks the concept of the additive inverse element. In other words, the space of fuzzy numbers cannot be a normed space even though the normed structure can be defined on this space. This also says that the fixed point theorems established in the normed space cannot apply directly to the space of fuzzy numbers. The purpose of this paper is to propose the concept of near fixed point in the space of fuzzy numbers and to study its existence. In order to consider the contraction of fuzzy-number-valued function, the concepts of near metric space and near normed space of fuzzy numbers are proposed based on the almost identical concept. The concepts of Cauchy sequences in near metric space and near normed space of fuzzy numbers are also proposed. Under these settings, the existence of near fixed points of fuzzy-number-valued contraction function in complete near metric space and near Banach space of fuzzy numbers are established.
An Implicit Hybrid Method for Solving Fractional Bagley-Torvik Boundary Value Problem
Authors: Syam Muhammed , Alsuwaidi Azza , Alneyadi Asia , Al Refai Safa , Al Khaldi Sondos
Published: June 2018

In this article, a modified implicit hybrid method for solving the fractional Bagley-Torvik boundary (BTB) value problem is investigated. This approach is of a higher order. We study the convergence, zero stability, consistency, and region of absolute stability of the modified implicit hybrid method. Three of our numerical examples are presented.
The evaluation of knowledge and activities of primary health care professionals in promoting breast-feeding
Authors: Levinienė Giedra , Petrauskienė Aušra , Tamulevičienė Eglė , Kudzytė Jolanta , Labanauskas Liutauras
Published: June 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and activities of Kaunas primary health care center professionals in promoting breast-feeding. Material and methods. A total of 84 general practitioners and 52 nurses participated in the survey, which was carried out in Kaunas primary health care centers in 2006. Data were gathered from the anonymous questionnaire. Results. Less than half of general practitioners (45.1%) and 65% of nurses were convinced that baby must be exclusively breast-fed until the age of 6 months, but only 21.6% of general practitioners and 27.5% of nurses knew that breast-feeding with complementary feeding should be continued until the age of 2 years and longer. Still 15.7% of general practitioners and 25% of nurses recommended pacifiers; 7.8% of general practitioners advised to breast-feed according to hours. Half of the health professionals recommended additional drinks between meals; onethird of them – to give complementary food for the babies before the age of 6 months. One-third (29.6%) of the health professionals surveyed recommended mothers to feed their babies more frequently in case the amount of breast milk decreased. Conclusions. The survey showed that knowledge of medical personnel in primary health care centers about the advantages of breast-feeding, prophylaxis of hypogalactia, and duration of breast-feeding was still insufficient.
Surgical treatment of pressure ulcers: an 11-year experience at the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of Hospital of Kaunas University of Medicine
Authors: Maslauskas Kęstutis , Samsanavičius Donatas , Rimdeika Rytis , Kaikaris Vygintas
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate morphological characteristics of pressure ulcers, methods of surgical treatment and its effectiveness in the Clinic of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital. Material and methods. A retrospective data analysis of 139 patients with pressure ulcers treated in the Clinic of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital, from January 1996 to January 2007 was performed. Results. A total of 139 patients were surgically treated for pressure ulcers at the Clinic of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital, from January 1996 to January 2007. Eighty-one patients were treated repeatedly (from 1 to 7 admissions; M=1). Pressure ulcers were healed completely in 94 patients who underwent surgery during the treatment in the hospital; in 45 patients who underwent surgical treatment, pressure ulcers were partially healed, and on discharge from hospital, only small wounds were left. Pressure ulcers most commonly occur in tuber ischii area (69 cases). The mean age of patients was 42±13.65 years (M=31); pressure ulcers were for 8.9±8.5 months on average (M=31). At admission to Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital, the mean size of pressure ulcers was 42.62±53.27 cm2 (M=10). The results showed that the size of pressure ulcers depends on the duration of paraplegia (P<0.05). In 93 cases, pressure ulcers were treated using myocutaneous flaps; 17 of them were closed with V-Y advancement technique over the sacral area, 35 were closed with m. gluteus rotation flap, and in 41 cases, V-Y advancement technique using hamstring flaps was used. Conclusions. In patients with paraplegia, the first pressure ulcer occurs after 74.79±61.34 months from the onset of the disease. Pressure ulcers most commonly occur over tuber ischii area. The most effective surgical treatment of pressure ulcers is closure of the wound using myocutaneous flaps (use of the hamstrings); fasciocutaneous flaps were the most commonly used method in patients who underwent surgery for the second time.
Characteristics of dental attendance among Lithuanian middle-aged university employees
Authors: Sakalauskienė Žana , Mačiulskienė Vita , Vehkalahti Miira , Kubilius Ričardas , Murtomaa Heikki
Published: June 2018

Objective. This study aimed to evaluate and describe the dental attendance patterns and to characterize the factors that encourage preventive dental visits among 35- to 44-year-old university employees in Lithuania. Material and methods. A questionnaire survey was conducted anonymously among the 35- to 44-year-old employees (n=862) of four universities in Lithuania in 2005. The response rate was 64% (n=553). Data on their most recent dental visit, habitual dental attendance, and self-reported dental health were collected. Gender, marital status, education, and income levels served as background factors. Of the respondents, 79% were women, and 82% held a university degree. Results. Of all the respondents, 75% reported having their most recent dental visit within the previous 12 months; 19% indicated a preventive check-up as the reason for it (15% – self-decided visit and 4% – dentist’s recall). The most common treatments received were fillings (75%), scaling and cleaning (28%), and endodontic treatment (22%). Analysis of the data about habitual dental attendance showed that preventive check-up as the main reason for attendance was more commonly reported by women (OR=1.7), among those who indicated having lost fewer teeth (OR=1.5), reported higher incomes (OR=1.4), and who indicated a shorter time interval since their most recent dental visit (OR=1.3). Conclusion. Dental problem seems to be a dominant reason for dental attendance in Lithuania where both dentists’ and patients’ behavior weakly reflects preventive orientation.
Subintimal angioplasty: an alternative to open surgery of the lower limb chronic artery occlusion
Authors: Aleksynas Nerijus , Kaupas Rytis , Antuševas Aleksandras
Published: June 2018

Objective. Based on recent literature data, subintimal arterial angioplasty, its indications and contraindications, methods and techniques, treatment results, and perspectives are introduced in this article. During the last two decades, with increasing human lifespan, more and more frequently a combination of progressive chronic lower limb ischemia, which is caused by occlusive disease, and severe condition occurs. In such cases, patients cannot be operated on. In Europe and the United States of America, patients undergo subintimal angioplasty. It is a minimally invasive technique for the treatment of lower limb occlusive disease, when without tissue incision, under local anesthesia, blood flow through damaged artery is normalized. Thus, the occlusion is removed without surgery, patient’s quality of life is improved, and survival is increased.
Sulfate-Reducing Naphthalene Degraders Are Picky Eaters
Authors: Wolfson Sarah J. , Porter Abigail W. , Kerkhof Lee J. , McGuinness Lora M. , Prince Roger C. , Young Lily Y.
Published: June 2018

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are common organic contaminants found in anoxic environments. The capacity for PAH biodegradation in unimpacted environments, however, has been understudied. Here we investigate the enrichment, selection, and sustainability of a microbial community from a pristine environment on naphthalene as the only amended carbon source. Pristine coastal sediments were obtained from the Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve in Tuckerton, New Jersey, an ecological reserve which has no direct input or source of hydrocarbons. After an initial exposure to naphthalene, primary anaerobic transfer cultures completely degraded 500 µM naphthalene within 139 days. Subsequent transfer cultures mineralized naphthalene within 21 days with stoichiometric sulfate loss. Enriched cultures efficiently utilized only naphthalene and 2-methylnaphthalene from the hydrocarbon mixtures in crude oil. To determine the microorganisms responsible for naphthalene degradation, stable isotope probing was utilized on cultures amended with fully labeled 13C-naphthalene as substrate. Three organisms were found to unambiguously synthesize 13C-DNA from 13C-naphthalene within 7 days. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that 16S rRNA genes from two of these organisms are closely related to the known naphthalene degrading isolates NaphS2 and NaphS3 from PAH-contaminated sites. A third 16S rRNA gene was only distantly related to its closest relative and may represent a novel naphthalene degrading microbe from this environment.
Phytochemicals: Target-Based Therapeutic Strategies for Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Parveen Amna , Kim Jin Hyun , Oh Byeong Gyu , Subedi Lalita , Khan Zahra , Kim Sun Yeou
Published: June 2018

Background: A variety of causative factors are involved in the initiation of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Current antidiabetic therapies are expensive and not easily accessible by the public. Furthermore, the use of multiple synthetic drugs leads to severe side effects, which worsen the diabetic patient’s condition. Medicinal plants and their derived phytochemicals are considered safe and effective treatment and their consumption can reduce the DR risk. In this article, we discuss a variety of medicinal plants, and their noteworthy bio-active constituents, that will be utilized as target based therapeutic strategies for DR. Methods: A broad-spectrum study was conducted using published English works in various electronic databases including Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Results: Targeting the multiple pathological factors including ROS, AGEs formation, hexosamine flux, PARP, PKC, and MAPK activation through variety of bioactive constituents in medicinal plants, diabetes progression can be delayed with improved loss of vision. Conclusions: Data reveals that traditional herbs and their prominent bioactive components control and normalize pathological cellular factors involved in DR progression. Therefore, studies should be carried out to explore the protective retinopathy effects of medicinal plants using experimental animal and humans models.
Natural Product-Based Pesticide Discovery: Design, Synthesis and Bioactivity Studies of N-Amino-Maleimide Derivatives
Authors: Song Xiangmin , Liu Chunjuan , Chen Peiqi , Zhang Hao , Sun Ranfeng
Published: June 2018

Natural products are an important source of pesticide discovery. A series of N-amino-maleimide derivatives containing hydrazone group were designed and synthesized based on the structure of linderone and methyllinderone which were isolated from Lindera erythrocarpa Makino. According to the bioassay results, compounds 2 and 3 showed 60% inhibition against mosquito (Culex pipiens pallens) at 0.25 µg·mL−1. Furthermore, the results of antifungal tests indicated that most compounds exhibited much better antifungal activities against fourteen phytopathogenic fungi than linderone and methyllinderone and some compounds exhibited better antifungal activities than commercial fungicides (carbendazim and chlorothalonil) at 50 µg·mL−1. In particular, compound 12 exhibited broad-spectrum fungicidal activity (>50% inhibitory activities against 11 phytopathogenic fungi) and compounds 12 and 14 displayed 60.6% and 47.9% inhibitory activity against Rhizoctonia cerealis at 12.5 µg·mL−1 respectively. Furthermore, compound 17 was synthesized, which lacks N-substituent at maleimide and its poor antifungal activity against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Rhizoctonia cerealis at 50 µg·mL−1 showed that the backbone structure of N-amino-maleimide derivatives containing hydrazone group was important to the antifungal activity.
Investigations of Structural Requirements for BRD4 Inhibitors through Ligand- and Structure-Based 3D QSAR Approaches
Authors: Tahir Adeena , Alharthy Rima D. , Naseem Saadia , Mahmood Natasha , Ahmed Mahmood , Shahzad Khuram , Akhtar Malik Nadeem , Hameed Abdul , Sadiq Irfan , Nawaz Haq , Muddassar Muhammad
Published: June 2018

The bromodomain containing protein 4 (BRD4) recognizes acetylated histone proteins and plays numerous roles in the progression of a wide range of cancers, due to which it is under intense investigation as a novel anti-cancer drug target. In the present study, we performed three-dimensional quantitative structure activity relationship (3D-QSAR) molecular modeling on a series of 60 inhibitors of BRD4 protein using ligand- and structure-based alignment and different partial charges assignment methods by employing comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) approaches. The developed models were validated using various statistical methods, including non-cross validated correlation coefficient (r2), leave-one-out (LOO) cross validated correlation coefficient (q2), bootstrapping, and Fisher’s randomization test. The highly reliable and predictive CoMFA (q2 = 0.569, r2 = 0.979) and CoMSIA (q2 = 0.500, r2 = 0.982) models were obtained from a structure-based 3D-QSAR approach using Merck molecular force field (MMFF94). The best models demonstrate that electrostatic and steric fields play an important role in the biological activities of these compounds. Hence, based on the contour maps information, new compounds were designed, and their binding modes were elucidated in BRD4 protein’s active site. Further, the activities and physicochemical properties of the designed molecules were also predicted using the best 3D-QSAR models. We believe that predicted models will help us to understand the structural requirements of BRD4 protein inhibitors that belong to quinolinone and quinazolinone classes for the designing of better active compounds.
α-Synuclein and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Molecular Basis of the Interaction and Implication in Neurodegeneration
Authors: Fecchio Chiara , Palazzi Luana , Polverino de Laureto Patrizia
Published: June 2018

α-Synuclein (α-syn) is a 140-amino acid protein, the physiological function of which has yet to be clarified. It is involved in several neurodegenerative disorders, and the interaction of the protein with brain lipids plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are highly abundant in the brain where they play critical roles in neuronal membrane fluidity and permeability, serve as energy reserves and function as second messengers in cell signaling. PUFA concentration and composition in the brain are altered with age when also an increase of lipid peroxidation is observed. Considering that PD is clearly correlated with oxidative stress, PUFA abundance and composition became of great interest in neurodegeneration studies because of PUFA’s high propensity to oxidize. The high levels of the PUFA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in brain areas containing α-syn inclusions in patients with PD further support the hypothesis of possible interactions between α-syn and DHA. Additionally, a possible functional role of α-syn in sequestering the early peroxidation products of fatty acids was recently proposed. Here, we provide an overview of the current knowledge regarding the molecular interactions between α-syn and fatty acids and the effect exerted by the protein on their oxidative state. We highlight recent findings supporting a neuroprotective role of the protein, linking α-syn, altered lipid composition in neurodegenerative disorders and PD development.
Prevalence, Severity and Potential Nutritional Causes of Gastrointestinal Symptoms during a Marathon in Recreational Runners
Authors: Pugh Jamie N. , Kirk Ben , Fearn Robert , Morton James P. , Close Graeme L.
Published: June 2018

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) amongst recreational runners during a marathon race, and potential nutritional factors that may contribute. Recreational runners of the 2017 Liverpool (n = 66) and Dublin (n = 30) marathons were recruited. GIS were reported post-marathon and we considered GIS in the 7 days prior to the marathon and during the marathon using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS). Nutritional intake was recorded using food diaries for the day before the race, morning of the race, and during the race; 43% of participants reported moderate (≥4) GIS in the 7 days prior to the marathon and 27% reported moderate symptoms during the marathon with most common symptoms being flatulence (16%) during training, and nausea (8%) during the marathon race. Correlations between all nutritional intake and GIS were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). There were significant correlations between total GIS score (r = 0.510, p < 0.001), upper GIS score (r = 0.346, p = 0.001) and lower GIS score (r = 0.483, p < 0.001) in training and during the marathon. There appears to be a modest prevalence of GIS in recreational runners, in the week prior to a marathon and during marathon running, although there was no association with nutritional intake before or during the race.
Potential Micronutrients and Phytochemicals against the Pathogenesis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhai Ting , Li Shizhen , Hu Wei , Li Duo , Leng Shuguang
Published: June 2018

Lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have shared etiology, including key etiological changes (e.g., DNA damage and epigenetics change) and lung function impairment. Focusing on those shared targets may help in the prevention of both. Certain micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and phytochemicals (carotenoids and phenols) have potent antioxidant or methyl-donating properties and thus have received considerable interest. We reviewed recent papers probing into the potential of nutrients with respect to lung function preservation and prevention of lung cancer risk, and suggest several hypothetical intervention patterns. Intakes of vitamins (i.e., A, C, D, E, B12), carotenoids, flavonoids, curcumins, resveratrol, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids all show protective effects against lung function loss, some mainly by improving average lung function and others through reducing decline rate. Dietary interventions early in life may help lung function reserve over the lifespan. Protective nutrient interventions among smokers are likely to mitigate the effects of cigarettes on lung health. We also discuss their underlying mechanisms and some possible causes for the inconsistent results in observational studies and supplementation trials. The role of the lung microbiome on lung health and its potential utility in identifying protective nutrients are discussed as well. More prospective cohorts and well-designed clinical trials are needed to promote the transition of individualized nutrient interventions into health policy.
What Is the Role of Nutritional Supplements in Support of Total Hip Replacement and Total Knee Replacement Surgeries? A Systematic Review
Authors: Burgess Louise , Phillips Stuart , Wainwright Thomas
Published: June 2018

Nutritional supplements can influence outcomes for individuals undergoing major surgery, particularly in older persons whose functional reserve is limited. Accelerating recovery from total hip replacement (THR) and total knee replacement (TKR) may offer significant benefits. Therefore, we explored the role of nutritional supplements in improving recovery following THR and TKR. A systematic review was conducted to source randomized clinical trials that tested nutritional supplements in cohorts of THR or TKR patients. Our search yielded nine relevant trials. Intake of a carbohydrate-containing fluid is reported to improve insulin-like growth factor levels, reduce hunger, nausea, and length of stay, and attenuate the decrease in whole-body insulin sensitivity and endogenous glucose release. Amino acid supplementation is reported to reduce muscle atrophy and accelerate return of functional mobility. One paper reported a suppressive effect of beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate, L-arginine, and L-glutamine supplementation on muscle strength loss following TKR. There is limited evidence for nutritional supplementation in THR and TKR pathways; however, the low risk profile and potential benefits to adjunctive treatment methods, such as exercise programs, suggest nutritional supplements may have a role. Optimizing nutritional status pre-operatively may help manage the surgical stress response, with a particular benefit for undernourished, frail, or elderly individuals.
Potential Inherent Stimulation of the Innate Immune System by Nucleic Acid Aptamers and Possible Corrective Approaches
Authors: Bruno John G.
Published: June 2018

It is well known that unmethylated 2′-deoxycytidine-phosphate-2′-guanine (CpG) sequences alone or in longer DNA and RNA oligonucleotides can act like pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and trigger the innate immune response leading to deleterious cytokine production via Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Clearly, such CpG or CpG-containing sequences in aptamers intended for therapy could present very damaging side effects to patients. Previous antisense oligonucleotide developers were faced with the same basic CpG dilemma and devised not only avoidance, but other effective strategies from which current aptamer developers can learn to ameliorate or eliminate damaging CpG effects. These strategies include obvious methylation of cytosines in the aptamer structure, as long as it does not affect aptamer binding in vivo, truncation of the aptamer to its essential binding site, backbone modifications, co-administration of antagonistic or suppressive oligonucleotides, or other novel drugs under development to lessen the toxic CpG effect on innate immunity.
Role of Microbiota and Tryptophan Metabolites in the Remote Effect of Intestinal Inflammation on Brain and Depression
Authors: Waclawiková Barbora , El Aidy Sahar
Published: June 2018

The human gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by trillions of commensal bacteria collectively known as the gut microbiota. Our recognition of the significance of the complex interaction between the microbiota, and its host has grown dramatically over the past years. A balanced microbial community is a key regulator of the immune response, and metabolism of dietary components, which in turn, modulates several brain processes impacting mood and behavior. Consequently, it is likely that disruptions within the composition of the microbiota would remotely affect the mental state of the host. Here, we discuss how intestinal bacteria and their metabolites can orchestrate gut-associated neuroimmune mechanisms that influence mood and behavior leading to depression. In particular, we focus on microbiota-triggered gut inflammation and its implications in shifting the tryptophan metabolism towards kynurenine biosynthesis while disrupting the serotonergic signaling. We further investigate the gaps to be bridged in this exciting field of research in order to clarify our understanding of the multifaceted crosstalk in the microbiota–gut–brain interphase, bringing about novel, microbiota-targeted therapeutics for mental illnesses.
Hyaluronic Acid in the Third Millennium
Authors: Fallacara Arianna , Baldini Erika , Manfredini Stefano , Vertuani Silvia
Published: June 2018

Since its first isolation in 1934, hyaluronic acid (HA) has been studied across a variety of research areas. This unbranched glycosaminoglycan consisting of repeating disaccharide units of N-acetyl-d-glucosamine and d-glucuronic acid is almost ubiquitous in humans and in other vertebrates. HA is involved in many key processes, including cell signaling, wound reparation, tissue regeneration, morphogenesis, matrix organization and pathobiology, and has unique physico-chemical properties, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, mucoadhesivity, hygroscopicity and viscoelasticity. For these reasons, exogenous HA has been investigated as a drug delivery system and treatment in cancer, ophthalmology, arthrology, pneumology, rhinology, urology, aesthetic medicine and cosmetics. To improve and customize its properties and applications, HA can be subjected to chemical modifications: conjugation and crosslinking. The present review gives an overview regarding HA, describing its history, physico-chemical, structural and hydrodynamic properties and biology (occurrence, biosynthesis (by hyaluronan synthases), degradation (by hyaluronidases and oxidative stress), roles, mechanisms of action and receptors). Furthermore, both conventional and recently emerging methods developed for the industrial production of HA and its chemical derivatization are presented. Finally, the medical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications of HA and its derivatives are reviewed, reporting examples of HA-based products that currently are on the market or are undergoing further investigations.
Deformation and Control Countermeasure of Surrounding Rocks for Water-Dripping Roadway Below a Contiguous Seam Goaf
Authors: Ma Changqing , Wang Pu , Jiang Lishuai , Wang Changsheng
Published: June 2018

To solve the technical problem of supporting a water-dripping roadway below contiguous seams at the Tuanbai coal mine, the deformation law of surrounding rocks for the roadway was studied using Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua in Three Dimensions (FLAC3D) numerical simulation. Then, a mechanical model of water-dripping rock using a bolt support was established, and further, technical countermeasures to control the deformation of the roadway with a bolt and cable support are proposed. The results show that the erosion of the water dripping on the roadway was substantial and showed notable changes over time during roadway excavation and mining work. These effects caused the road to heave slightly, but it tended to be stable during roadway excavation. Moreover, the erosion of the roof and two ribs increased exponentially, and the floor heave increased with significant displacement oscillation during mining. The anchoring length of bolts and the rock weakening from water dripping had noticeable effects on the surrounding rocks of the roadway. The logical parameters of the bolt spacing and tightening force (the bolt line spacing was 0.7–0.9 m and the tightening force exceeded 40 kN) of the bolt supports were studied and optimized. Finally, a support scheme for water dripping on the roadway at the Tuanbai coal mine is proposed. The observation data regarding the deformation of the surrounding rocks, monitoring of bolt and cable stress, endoscopy results of roof failure, and roof bed separation monitoring were used to verify the reasonableness of the scheme and ensure the requirements for support were met. The study results can serve as a reference regarding the support for water dripping on a roadway under similar conditions.
Hierarchical Markov Model in Life Insurance and Social Benefit Schemes
Authors: Jang Jiwook , Mohd Ramli Siti Norafidah
Published: June 2018

We explored the effect of the jump-diffusion process on a social benefit scheme consisting of life insurance, unemployment/disability benefits, and retirement benefits. To do so, we used a four-state Markov chain with multiple decrements. Assuming independent state-wise intensities taking the form of a jump-diffusion process and deterministic interest rates, we evaluated the prospective reserves for this scheme in which the individual is employed at inception. We then numerically demonstrated the state of the reserves for the scheme under jump-diffusion and non-jump-diffusion settings. By decomposing the reserve equation into five components, our numerical illustration indicated that an extension of the retirement age has a spillover effect that would increase government expenses for other social insurance programs. We also conducted sensitivity analyses and examined the total-reserves components by changing the relevant parameters of the transition intensities, which are the average jump-size parameter, average jump frequency, and diffusion parameters of the chosen states, with figures provided. Our computation revealed that the total reserve is most sensitive to changes in average jump frequency.
Sampling the Multivariate Standard Normal Distribution under a Weighted Sum Constraint
Authors: Vrins Frédéric
Published: June 2018

Statistical modeling techniques—and factor models in particular—are extensively used in practice, especially in the insurance and finance industry, where many risks have to be accounted for. In risk management applications, it might be important to analyze the situation when fixing the value of a weighted sum of factors, for example to a given quantile. In this work, we derive the (n−1)-dimensional distribution corresponding to a n-dimensional i.i.d. standard Normal vector Z=(Z1,Z2,…,Zn)′ subject to the weighted sum constraint w′Z=c, where w=(w1,w2,…,wn)′ and wi≠0. This law is proven to be a Normal distribution, whose mean vector μ and covariance matrix Σ are explicitly derived as a function of (w,c). The derivation of the density relies on the analytical inversion of a very specific positive definite matrix. We show that it does not correspond to naive sampling techniques one could think of. This result is then used to design algorithms for sampling Z under constraint that w′Z=c or w′Z≤c and is illustrated on two applications dealing with Value-at-Risk and Expected Shortfall.
Distinguishing between Hazardous Flooding and Non-Hazardous Agronomic Inundation in Irrigated Rice Fields: A Case Study from West Java
Authors: Sianturi Riswan , Jetten Victor G. , Ettema Janneke , Sartohadi Junun
Published: June 2018

An accurate flood detection method is essential for obtaining areas of irrigated rice fields affected by flooding. This paper aims to distinguish between rice fields with flooding and rice fields with agronomic inundation using MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) 8 day 500 m spatial resolution (MOD09A1) imageries over irrigated rice fields with complex cropping patterns in West Java. Over the past decade, Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) ≤ 0.1 derived from moderate resolution remote sensing imageries has been used for detecting flooding in irrigated rice fields. Without additional farming information, this paper argues that EVI ≤ 0.1 cannot estimate flood areas correctly, given the existence of both hazardous flooding and non-hazardous agronomic inundation in irrigated rice fields. Adding a threshold of 40-day duration representing land preparation and transplanting activities enables EVI ≤ 0.1 to distinguish between agronomic inundation and flooding in irrigated rice fields. The difference in the Start of Season (SOS) between the wet planting season 2013/2014 and long-term average (2000–2015) shows that the Overall Accuracy (OA) and F1 scores are 75.96% and 81.74%, respectively. The confusion matrix using the respondents’ reports shows OA of 80.5% and Kappa of 60.16%. The quality of flood maps is partly influenced by environmental processes, human decisions, and mixed pixels.
Multi-Scale Analysis of the Relationship between Land Subsidence and Buildings: A Case Study in an Eastern Beijing Urban Area Using the PS-InSAR Technique
Authors: Yang Qin , Ke Yinghai , Zhang Dongyi , Chen Beibei , Gong Huili , Lv Mingyuan , Zhu Lin , Li Xiaojuan
Published: June 2018

Beijing is severely affected by land subsidence, and rapid urbanisation and building construction might accelerate the land subsidence process. Based on 39 Envisat Advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar (ASAR) images acquired between 2003–2010, 55 TerraSAR-X images acquired between 2010–2016, and urban building information, we analysed the relationship between land subsidence and buildings at the regional, block, and building scales. The results show that the surface displacement rate in the Beijing urban area ranged from −109 mm/year to +13 mm/year between 2003–2010, and from −151 mm/year to +19 mm/year between 2010–2016; two subsidence bowls were mainly distributed in the eastern part of the Chaoyang District. The displacement rate agreed well with the levelling measurements, with an average bias of less than six mm/year. At the regional scale, the spatial pattern of land subsidence was mainly controlled by groundwater extraction, compressible layer thickness, and geological faults. Subsidence centres were located in the area around ground water funnels with a compressible layer depth of 50–70 m. The block-scale analysis demonstrated a clear correlation between the block construction age and the spatial unevenness of subsidence. The blocks constructed between 1998–2005 and after 2005 showed considerably more subsidence unevenness and temporal instability than the blocks constructed before 1998 during both time periods. The examination of the new blocks showed that the spatial unevenness increased with building volume variability. For the 16 blocks with a high building volume, variability, and subsidence unevenness, the building-scale analysis showed a positive relationship between building volume and settlement in most blocks, although the R2 was lower than 0.5. The results indicate that intense building construction in urban areas could cause differential settlement at the block scale in Beijing, while the settlement of single buildings could be influenced by the integrated effects of building volume, foundation structures, and the hydrogeological background.
Rectification of Images Distorted by Microlens Array Errors in Plenoptic Cameras
Authors: Li Suning , Zhu Yanlong , Zhang Chuanxin , Yuan Yuan , Tan Heping
Published: June 2018

A plenoptic cameras is a sensor that records the 4D light-field distribution of target scenes. The surface errors of a microlens array (MLA) can cause the degradation and distortion of the raw image captured by a plenoptic camera, resulting in the confusion or loss of light-field information. To address this issue, we propose a method for the local rectification of distorted images using white light-field images. The method consists of microlens center calibration, geometric rectification, and grayscale rectification. The scope of its application to different sized errors and the rectification accuracy of three basic surface errors, including the overall accuracy and the local accuracy, are analyzed through simulation of imaging experiments. The rectified images have a significant improvement in quality, demonstrating the provision of precise light-field data for reconstruction of real objects.
Modeling and Characterization of Traffic Flows in Urban Environments
Authors: Zambrano-Martinez Jorge , Calafate Carlos , Soler David , Cano Juan-Carlos , Manzoni Pietro
Published: June 2018

Currently, one of the main challenges faced in large metropolitan areas is traffic congestion. To address this problem, adequate traffic control could produce many benefits, including reduced pollutant emissions and reduced travel times. If it were possible to characterize the state of traffic by predicting future traffic conditions for optimizing the route of automated vehicles, and if these measures could be taken to preventively mitigate the effects of congestion with its related problems, the overall traffic flow could be improved. This paper performs an experimental study of the traffic distribution in the city of Valencia, Spain, characterizing the different streets of the city in terms of vehicle load with respect to the travel time during rush hour traffic conditions. Experimental results based on realistic vehicular traffic traces from the city of Valencia show that only some street segments fall under the general theory of vehicular flow, offering a good fit using quadratic regression, while a great number of street segments fall under other categories. Although in some cases such discrepancies are related to lack of traffic, injecting additional vehicles shows that significant mismatches still persist. Thus, in this paper we propose an equation to characterize travel times over a segment belonging to the sigmoid family; specifically, we apply logistic regression, being able to significantly improve the curve fitting results for most of the street segments under analysis. Based on our regression results, we performed a clustering analysis of the different street segments, showing that they can be classified into three well-defined categories, which evidences a predictable traffic distribution using the logistic regression throughout the city during rush hours, and allows optimizing the traffic for automated vehicles.
A Context-Aware Edge-Based VANET Communication Scheme for ITS
Authors: An Chang , Wu Celimuge , Yoshinaga Tsutomu , Chen Xianfu , Ji Yusheng
Published: June 2018

We propose a context-aware edge-based packet forwarding scheme for vehicular networks. The proposed scheme employs a fuzzy logic-based edge node selection protocol to find the best edge nodes in a decentralized manner, which can achieve an efficient use of wireless resources by conducting packet forwarding through edges. A reinforcement learning algorithm is used to optimize the last two-hop communications in order to improve the adaptiveness of the communication routes. The proposed scheme selects different edge nodes for different types of communications with different context information such as connection-dependency (connection-dependent or connection-independent), communication type (unicast or broadcast), and packet payload size. We launch extensive simulations to evaluate the proposed scheme by comparing with existing broadcast protocols and unicast protocols for various network conditions and traffic patterns.
Immunogold Nanoparticles for Rapid Plasmonic Detection of C. sakazakii
Authors: Aly Mohamed A. , Domig Konrad J. , Kneifel Wolfgang , Reimhult Erik
Published: June 2018

Cronobacter sakazakii is a foodborne pathogen that can cause a rare, septicemia, life-threatening meningitis, and necrotizing enterocolitis in infants. In general, standard methods for pathogen detection rely on culture, plating, colony counting and polymerase chain reaction DNA-sequencing for identification, which are time, equipment and skill demanding. Recently, nanoparticle- and surface-based immunoassays have increasingly been explored for pathogen detection. We investigate the functionalization of gold nanoparticles optimized for irreversible and specific binding to C. sakazakii and their use for spectroscopic detection of the pathogen. We demonstrate how 40-nm gold nanoparticles grafted with a poly(ethylene glycol) brush and functionalized with polyclonal antibodies raised against C. sakazakii can be used to specifically target C. sakazakii. The strong extinction peak of the Au nanoparticle plasmon polariton resonance in the optical range is used as a label for detection of the pathogens. Individual binding of the nanoparticles to the C. sakazakii surface is also verified by transmission electron microscopy. We show that a high degree of surface functionalization with anti-C. sakazakii optimizes the detection and leads to a detection limit as low as 10 CFU/mL within 2 h using a simple cuvette-based UV-Vis spectrometric readout that has great potential for further optimization.
Six Degrees of Freedom Displacement Measurement System for Wafer Stage Composed of Hall Sensors
Authors: Zhao Bo , Shi Weijia , Zhang Jiawei , Zhang Ming , Qi Xue , Li Jiaxin , Li Feng , Tan Jiubin
Published: June 2018

This paper proposes a decoupled six degrees of freedom (DOF) displacement measurement methodology, which is accomplished by utilizing six pairs of permanent magnets and six Hall sensors. Firstly, the coordinate transformation was mathematically derived, which represented the relationships between the main coordinate system of the motion system and each body coordinate system of the Hall sensors. With the aid of an ellipsoid function and the least squares method, only the output voltages of the six Hall sensors were required to decouple the six-DOF displacement and inclination of the motion platform with high accuracy. Finally, the experimental measurements demonstrate the effectiveness of the six DOF displacement measurement methodology, based on which the maximum errors of displacements can reach 0.23 mm and the maximum errors of inclinations can reach 0.07°.
A Network Equivalent-Based Algorithm for Adaptive Parameter Tuning in 802.15.4 WSNs
Authors: Wang Yipeng , Yang Wei , Han Ruisong , You Kaiming
Published: June 2018

Previous studies have shown that in many wireless sensor network applications the IEEE 802.15.4 carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA/CA) mechanism with default parameters cannot guarantee the constraints of reliability, time efficiency, or energy efficiency. Although many adaptive parameter tuning algorithms have been proposed, many of them cannot correctly identify the changes of the network condition and are unable to effectively perform the parameter tuning operation. Considering the randomness that CSMA/CA brings about, for most of the proposed algorithms, it is a challenge to distinguish significant violations that were caused by actual changes of the network from the general fluctuations that were due to CSMA/CA. In this paper, we propose a lightweight algorithm called the network equivalent adaptive parameter tuning (NEAPT) algorithm. It is fully distributed and can work without any predefined information or acknowledgement. NEAPT not only takes reliability as an evaluation of a network condition, but it proposes a synthetic value, called the equivalent node number, and takes it as another reference for a network condition. Simulation results show that by taking both reliability and the equivalent node number into consideration, NEAPT can effectively identify the network changes and provide adequate and steady performances for wireless sensor networks (WSNs) in both stationary and dynamic conditions.
Complexity of Daily Physical Activity Is More Sensitive Than Conventional Metrics to Assess Functional Change in Younger Older Adults
Authors: Zhang Wei , Schwenk Michael , Mellone Sabato , Paraschiv-Ionescu Anisoara , Vereijken Beatrix , Pijnappels Mirjam , Mikolaizak A. Stefanie , Boulton Elisabeth , Jonkman Nini H. , Maier Andrea B. , Klenk Jochen , Helbostad Jorunn , Taraldsen Kristin , Aminian Kamiar
Published: June 2018

The emerging mHealth applications, incorporating wearable sensors, enables continuous monitoring of physical activity (PA). This study aimed at analyzing the relevance of a multivariate complexity metric in assessment of functional change in younger older adults. Thirty individuals (60–70 years old) participated in a 4-week home-based exercise intervention. The Community Balance and Mobility Scale (CBMS) was used for clinical assessment of the participants’ functional balance and mobility performance pre- and post- intervention. Accelerometers worn on the low back were used to register PA of one week before and in the third week of the intervention. Changes in conventional univariate PA metrics (percentage of walking and sedentary time, step counts, mean cadence) and complexity were compared to the change as measured by the CBMS. Statistical analyses (21 participants) showed significant rank correlation between the change as measured by complexity and CBMS (ρ = 0.47, p = 0.03). Smoothing the activity output improved the correlation (ρ = 0.58, p = 0.01). In contrast, change in univariate PA metrics did not show correlations. These findings demonstrate the high potential of the complexity metric being useful and more sensitive than conventional PA metrics for assessing functional changes in younger older adults.
Outing the Elephants: Exploring a New Paradigm for Child Protection Social Work
Authors: Hyslop Ian , Keddell Emily
Published: June 2018

This article sets out to trouble the psychologised and pathologising approach that has come to dominate child protection practice in Aotearoa-New Zealand and comparable societies. Within a neoliberal ideological frame, Governments deny the need to adjust markets, except in ways that remove protections from workers or specific vulnerable groups. In this context, social work is concerned with adjusting people to the discipline of the market. Within a risk-focused child protection paradigm, circumstances and behaviours associated with material deprivation are construed as indicators of heightened danger and harm to children as opposed to a means of better understanding family life. It is argued here that appreciation of how social inequality plays out in the lives of children and their families is critical to the development of more effective child protection social work. Poverty exacerbates the everyday struggle of parenting—it shames and disempowers, reducing confidence and perceptions of competence. With reference to contemporary Aotearoa-New Zealand, this article critiques current developments in child protection social work and outlines a new direction for development.
Relationship between Physical Activity, Screen Time and Weight Status among Young Adolescents
Authors: O’Brien Wesley , Issartel Johann , Belton Sarahjane
Published: June 2018

It is well established that lack of physical activity and high bouts of sedentary behaviour are now associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between physical activity participation, overall screen time and weight status amongst early Irish adolescent youth. Participants were a sample of 169 students: 113 boys (mean age = 12.89 ± 0.34 years) and 56 girls (mean age = 12.87 ± 0.61 years). The data gathered in the present study included physical activity (accelerometry), screen time (self-report) and anthropometric measurements. Overweight and obese participants accumulated significantly more minutes of overall screen time daily compared to their normal-weight counterparts. A correlation between physical activity and daily television viewing was evident among girls. No significant interaction was apparent when examining daily physical activity and overall screen time in the prediction of early adolescents’ body mass index. Results suggest the importance of reducing screen time in the contribution towards a healthier weight status among adolescents. Furthermore, physical activity appears largely unrelated to overall screen time in predicting adolescent weight status, suggesting that these variables may be independent markers of health in youth. The existing relationship for girls between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and time spent television viewing may be a potential area to consider for future intervention design with adolescent youth.