bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ten‐year follow‐up study of Japanese patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Nakajima Akihiro , Matsuura Naomi , Mukai Keiichiro , Yamanishi Kyosuke , Yamada Hisashi , Maebayashi Kensei , Hayashida Kazuhisa , Matsunaga Hisato
Published: April 2018

Aim

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is a well‐known chronic illness. This study retrospectively investigated 10‐year outcomes and associated clinical factors in Japanese OCD patients. We focused on the impact of several sociocultural factors, including medical expenses and insurance systems specific to each country, on the differences or biases in follow‐up procedures of OCD.

Methods

Seventy‐nine patients diagnosed with OCD who received a standardized combination of treatments for 10 continuous years were divided into three groups according to their improvement rates on the Yale–Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale after 10 years of treatment.

Results

A survival analysis revealed that the rate of patients achieving full remission increased every year. Following 10 years of treatment, 56% of OCD patients experienced ‘full remission’ for at least 1 year. Consequently, 48% exhibited full remission, and 37% exhibited partial remission at the end‐point of this study. We identified several factors that were predictive of poorer outcomes, including lower Global Assessment of Functioning Scale scores and the presence of hoarding symptoms or involvement behaviors. In addition, improvement rates after 1 year significantly predicted better 10‐year outcomes.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the transcultural nature of long‐term outcomes of OCD treatment, which appear to be independent of sociocultural differences.
Outside‐in control – does plant cell wall integrity regulate cell cycle progression?
Authors: Gigli‐Bisceglia Nora , Hamann Thorsten
Published: April 2018

During recent years it has become accepted that plant cell walls are not inert objects surrounding all plant cells but are instead highly dynamic, plastic structures. They are involved in a large number of cell biological processes and contribute actively to plant growth, development and interaction with environment. Therefore, it is not surprising that cellular processes can control plant cell wall integrity (CWI) while, simultaneously, CWI can influence cellular processes. In yeast and animal cells such a bidirectional relationship also exists between the yeast/animal extracellular matrices and the cell cycle. In yeast, the CWI maintenance mechanism and a dedicated plasma membrane integrity checkpoint are mediating this relationship. Recent research has yielded insights into the mechanism controlling plant cell wall metabolism during cytokinesis. However, the knowledge regarding putative regulatory pathways controlling adaptive modifications in plant cell cycle activity in response to changes in the state of the plant cell wall are not yet identified. In this review, we summarize similarities and differences in regulatory mechanisms coordinating extracellular matrices and cell cycle activity in animal and yeast cells, discuss the available evidence supporting the existence of such a mechanism in plants and suggest that the plant CWI maintenance mechanism might also control cell cycle activity in plant cells.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Bumped Kinase Inhibitor 1369 in a Pig Model of Acute Diarrhea Caused by Cryptosporidium hominis
Authors: Lee Sangun , Ginese Melanie , Beamer Gillian , Danz Hillary R. , Girouard Donald J. , Chapman-Bonofiglio Susan P. , Lee Minhee , Hulverson Matthew A. , Choi Ryan , Whitman Grant R. , Ojo Kayode K. , Arnold Samuel L. M. , Van Voorhis Wesley C. , Tzipori Saul
Published: April 2018

Recent reports highlighting the global significance of cryptosporidiosis among children have renewed efforts to develop control measures. We evaluated the efficacy of bumped kinase inhibitor (BKI) 1369 in the gnotobiotic piglet model of acute diarrhea caused by
Cryptosporidium hominis
, the species responsible for most human cases. Five-day treatment with BKI 1369 reduced signs of disease early during treatment compared to those of untreated animals. Piglets treated with BKI 1369 exhibited significant reductions of oocyst excretion, mucosal colonization by
C. hominis
, and mucosal lesions, which resulted in considerable symptomatic improvement. BKI 1369 reduced the parasite burden and disease severity in the gnotobiotic pig model. Together these data suggest that a BKI-mediated therapeutic may be an effective treatment against cryptosporidiosis.
HC2091 Kills Mycobacterium tuberculosis by Targeting the MmpL3 Mycolic Acid Transporter
Authors: Zheng Huiqing , Williams John T. , Coulson Garry B. , Haiderer Elizabeth R. , Abramovitch Robert B.
Published: April 2018

Tuberculosis, caused by the intracellular pathogen
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, is a deadly disease that requires a long course of treatment. The emergence of drug-resistant strains has driven efforts to discover new small molecules that can kill the bacterium. Here, we report characterizations of the compound HC2091, which kills
M. tuberculosis
in a time- and dose-dependent manner
in vitro
and inhibits
M. tuberculosis
growth in macrophages. Whole-genome sequencing of spontaneous HC2091-resistant mutants identified single-nucleotide variants in the
mmpL3
mycolic acid transporter gene. HC2091-resistant mutants do not exhibit cross-resistance with the well-characterized
Mycobacterium
membrane protein large 3 (MmpL3) inhibitor SQ109, suggesting a distinct mechanism of interaction with MmpL3. Additionally, HC2091 does not modulate bacterial membrane potential or kill nonreplicating
M. tuberculosis
, thus acting differently from other known MmpL3 inhibitors. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) transcriptional profiling and lipid profiling of
M. tuberculosis
treated with HC2091 or SQ109 show that the two compounds target a similar pathway. HC2091 has a chemical structure dissimilar to those of previously described MmpL3 inhibitors, supporting the notion that HC2091 is a new class of MmpL3 inhibitor.
Forespore Targeting of SpoVD in Bacillus subtilis Is Mediated by the N-Terminal Part of the Protein
Authors: Sidarta Margareth , Li Dongdong , Hederstedt Lars , Bukowska-Faniband Ewa
Published: April 2018

SpoVD and PBP4b are structurally very similar high-molecular-weight, class B penicillin-binding proteins produced early during sporulation in
Bacillus subtilis
. SpoVD is known to be essential for endospore cortex synthesis and thereby the production of heat-resistant spores. The role of PBP4b is still enigmatic. Both proteins are synthesized in the cytoplasm of the mother cell. PBP4b remains in the cytoplasmic membrane of the mother cell, whereas SpoVD accumulates in the forespore outer membrane. By the use of SpoVD/PBP4b chimeras with swapped protein domains, we show that the N-terminal part of SpoVD, containing the single transmembrane region, determines the forespore targeting of the protein.

IMPORTANCE
Beta-lactam-type antibiotics target penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), which function in cell wall peptidoglycan synthesis. Bacteria of a subset of genera, including
Bacillus
and
Clostridium
species, can form endospores. The extreme resistance of endospores against harsh physicochemical conditions is of concern in clinical microbiology and the food industry. Endospore cortex layer biogenesis constitutes an experimental model system for research on peptidoglycan synthesis. The differentiation of a vegetative bacterial cell into an endospore involves the formation of a forespore within the cytoplasm of the sporulating cell. A number of proteins, including some PBPs, accumulate in the forespore. An understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind such subcellular targeting of proteins in bacterial cells can, for example, lead to a means of blocking the process of sporulation.
Not just a number: examining coverage and content of antenatal care in low-income and middle-income countries
Authors: Benova Lenka , Tunçalp Özge , Moran Allisyn C , Campbell Oona Maeve Renee
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Antenatal care (ANC) provides a critical opportunity for women and babies to benefit from good-quality maternal care. Using 10 countries as an illustrative analysis, we described ANC coverage (number of visits and timing of first visit) and operationalised indicators for content of care as available in population surveys, and examined how these two approaches are related.

Methods

We used the most recent Demographic and Health Survey to analyse ANC related to women’s most recent live birth up to 3 years preceding the survey. Content of care was assessed using six components routinely measured across all countries, and a further one to eight additional country-specific components. We estimated the percentage of women in need of ANC, and using ANC, who received each component, the six routine components and all components.

Results

In all 10 countries, the majority of women in need of ANC reported 1+ ANC visits and over two-fifths reported 4+ visits. Receipt of the six routine components varied widely; blood pressure measurement was the most commonly reported component, and urine test and information on complications the least. Among the subset of women starting ANC in the first trimester and receiving 4+ visits, the percentage receiving all six routinely measured ANC components was low, ranging from 10% (Jordan) to around 50% in Nigeria, Nepal, Colombia and Haiti.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that even among women with patterns of care that complied with global recommendations, the content of care was poor. Efficient and effective action to improve care quality relies on development of suitable content of care indicators.
Fruit and vegetable intake and body adiposity among populations in Eastern Canada: the Atlantic Partnership for Tomorrow’s Health Study
Authors: Yu Zhijie Michael , DeClercq Vanessa , Cui Yunsong , Forbes Cynthia , Grandy Scott , Keats Melanie , Parker Louise , Sweeney Ellen , Dummer Trevor J B
Published: April 2018

Objectives

The prevalence of obesity among populations in the Atlantic provinces is the highest in Canada. Some studies suggest that adequate fruit and vegetable consumption may help body weight management. We assessed the associations between fruit and vegetable intake with body adiposity among individuals who participated in the baseline survey of the Atlantic Partnership for Tomorrow’s Health (Atlantic PATH) cohort study.

Methods

We carried out a cross-sectional analysis among 26 340 individuals (7979 men and 18 361 women) aged 35–69 years who were recruited in the baseline survey of the Atlantic PATH study. Data on fruit and vegetable intake, sociodemographic and behavioural factors, chronic disease, anthropometric measurements and body composition were included in the analysis.

Results

In the multivariable regression analyses, 1 SD increment of total fruit and vegetable intake was inversely associated with body mass index (−0.12 kg/m2; 95% CI −0.19 to –0.05), waist circumference (−0.40 cm; 95% CI −0.58 to –0.23), percentage fat mass (−0.30%; 95% CI −0.44 to –0.17) and fat mass index (−0.14 kg/m2; 95% CI −0.19 to –0.08). Fruit intake, but not vegetable intake, was consistently inversely associated with anthropometric indices, fat mass, obesity and abdominal obesity.

Conclusions

Fruit and vegetable consumption was inversely associated with body adiposity among the participant population in Atlantic Canada. This association was primarily attributable to fruit intake. Longitudinal studies and randomised trials are warranted to confirm these observations and investigate the underlying mechanisms.
Associations between preoperative Oxford hip and knee scores and costs and quality of life of patients undergoing primary total joint replacement in the NHS England: an observational study
Authors: Eibich Peter , Dakin Helen A , Price Andrew James , Beard David , Arden Nigel K , Gray Alastair M
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To assess how costs and quality of life (measured by EuroQoL-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D)) before and after total hip replacement (THR) and total knee replacement (TKR) vary with age, gender and preoperative Oxford hip score (OHS) and Oxford knee score (OKS).

Design

Regression analyses using prospectively collected data from clinical trials, cohort studies and administrative data bases.

Setting

UK secondary care.

Participants

Men and women undergoing primary THR or TKR. The Hospital Episode Statistics data linked to patient-reported outcome measures included 602 176 patients undergoing hip or knee replacement who were followed up for up to 6 years. The Knee Arthroplasty Trial included 2217 patients undergoing TKR who were followed up for 12 years. The Clinical Outcomes in Arthroplasty Study cohort included 806 patients undergoing THR and 484 patients undergoing TKR who were observed for 1 year.

Outcome measures

EQ-5D-3L quality of life before and after surgery, costs of primary arthroplasty, costs of revision arthroplasty and the costs of hospital readmissions and ambulatory costs in the year before and up to 12 years after joint replacement.

Results

Average postoperative utility for patients at the 5th percentile of the OHS/OKS distribution was 0.61/0.5 for THR/TKR and 0.89/0.85 for patients at the 95th percentile. The difference between postoperative and preoperative EQ-5D utility was highest for patients with preoperative OHS/OKS lower than 10. However, postoperative EQ-5D utility was higher than preoperative utility for all patients with OHS≤46 and those with OKS≤44. In contrast, costs were generally higher for patients with low preoperative OHS/OKS than those with high OHS/OKS. For example, costs of hospital readmissions within 12 months after primary THR/TKR were £740/£888 for patients at the 5th percentile compared with £314/£404 at the 95th percentile of the OHS/OKS distribution.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that costs and quality of life associated with total joint replacement vary systematically with preoperative symptoms measured by OHS/OKS.
Can microstructural MRI detect subclinical tissue injury in subjects with asymptomatic cervical spinal cord compression? A prospective cohort study
Authors: Martin Allan R , De Leener Benjamin , Cohen-Adad Julien , Cadotte David W , Nouri Aria , Wilson Jefferson R , Tetreault Lindsay , Crawley Adrian P , Mikulis David J , Ginsberg Howard , Fehlings Michael G
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) involves extrinsic spinal cord compression causing tissue injury and neurological dysfunction. Asymptomatic spinal cord compression (ASCC) is more common, but its significance is poorly defined. This study investigates if: (1) ASCC can be automatically diagnosed using spinal cord shape analysis; (2) multiparametric quantitative MRI can detect similar spinal cord tissue injury as previously observed in DCM.

Design

Prospective observational longitudinal cohort study.

Setting

Single centre, tertiary care and research institution.

Participants

40 neurologically intact subjects (19 female, 21 male) divided into groups with and without ASCC.

Interventions

None.

Outcome measures

Clinical assessments: modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association score and physical examination. 3T MRI assessments: automated morphometric analysis compared with consensus ratings of spinal cord compression, and measures of tissue injury: cross-sectional area, diffusion fractional anisotropy, magnetisation transfer ratio and T2*-weighted imaging white to grey matter signal intensity ratio (T2*WI WM/GM) extracted from rostral (C1–3), caudal (C6–7) and maximally compressed levels.

Results

ASCC was present in 20/40 subjects. Diagnosis with automated shape analysis showed area under the curve >97%. Five MRI metrics showed differences suggestive of tissue injury in ASCC compared with uncompressed subjects (p<0.05), while a composite of all 10 measures (average of z scores) showed highly significant differences (p=0.002). At follow-up (median 21 months), two ASCC subjects developed DCM.

Conclusions

ASCC appears to be common and can be accurately and objectively diagnosed with automated morphometric analysis. Quantitative MRI appears to detect subclinical tissue injury in ASCC prior to the onset of neurological symptoms and signs. These findings require further validation, but offer the intriguing possibility of presymptomatic diagnosis and treatment of DCM and other spinal pathologies.
Reoperation after breast-conserving surgery for cancer in Australia: statewide cohort study of linked hospital data
Authors: van Leeuwen Marina T , Falster Michael O , Vajdic Claire M , Crowe Philip J , Lujic Sanja , Klaes Elizabeth , Jorm Louisa , Sedrakyan Art
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To investigate between-hospital variation in the probability of reoperation within 90 days of initial breast-conserving surgery (BCS), and the contribution of health system-level and other factors.

Design

Population-based, retrospective cohort study.

Setting

New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Participants

Linked administrative hospitalisation data were used to define a cohort of adult women undergoing initial BCS for breast cancer in NSW between 1 July 2002 and 31 December 2013.

Primary outcome measures

Multilevel, cross-classified models with patients clustered within hospitals and residential areas were used to examine factors associated with any reoperation, and either re-excision or mastectomy, within 90 days.

Results

Of 34 458 women undergoing BCS, 29.1% underwent reoperation within 90 days, half of which were mastectomies. Overall, the probability of reoperation decreased slightly over time. However, there were divergent patterns by reoperation type; the probability of re-excision increased alongside a concomitant decrease in the probability of mastectomy. Significant between-hospital variation was observed. Non-metropolitan location and surgery at low-volume hospitals were associated with a higher overall probability of reoperation, and of mastectomy specifically, after accounting for patient-level factors, calendar year and area-level socioeconomic status. The magnitude of association with geographical location and surgical volume decreased over time.

Conclusions

Reoperation rates within 90 days of BCS varied significantly between hospitals. For women undergoing mastectomy after BCS, this represents a dramatic change in clinical course. Multilevel modelling suggests unwarranted clinical variation may be an issue, likely due to disparities in access to multidisciplinary breast cancer care and preoperative diagnostic procedures. However, the observed reduction in disparities over time is encouraging and indicates that guidelines and policy initiatives have the potential to improve regional breast cancer care.
Metabolic syndrome and its components with neuron-specific enolase: a cross-sectional study in large health check-up population in China
Authors: Wang Shu-Yi , Zha Xiao-Juan , Zhu Xin-Ying , Li Wen-Bo , Ma Jun , Wu Ze-Wei , Wu Huan , Jiang Ming-Fei , Wen Yu-Feng
Published: April 2018

Objective

This study was aimed at investigating the relationship between neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and components of metabolic syndrome (MS).

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Chinese health check-up population.

Participants

40 684 health check-up people were enrolled in this study from year 2014 to 2016.

Main outcome measures

OR and coefficient for MS.

Results

The percentage of abnormal NSE and MS was 26.85% and 8.85%, respectively. There were significant differences in sex, body mass index, drinking habit, triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), blood pressure and MS between low-NSE and high-NSE groups. In logistic regression analysis, elevated NSE was present in MS, higher body mass index, hypertriglyceridaemia, hypertension and low-HDL groups. Stepwise linear analysis showed a negative correlation between NSE and fasting blood glucose (FBG) (<6.0 mmol/L), and a positive correlation between NSE and TGs (<20 mmol/L), systolic blood pressure (75–200 mm Hg), HDL-C (0.75–2.50 mmol/L), diastolic blood pressure (<70 mm Hg) and FBG (6.00–20.00 mmol/L). Furthermore, MS was positively correlated with NSE within the range of 2.00–7.50 ng/mL, but had a negative correlation with NSE within the range of 7.50–23.00 ng/mL.

Conclusion

There are associations between NSE with MS and its components. The result suggests that NSE may be a potential predictor of MS. Further research could be conducted in discussing the potential mechanism involved.
Ideal cardiovascular health metrics and its association with 20-year cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in a Chinese population
Authors: Zhou Long , Zhao Liancheng , Wu Yong , Wu Yangfeng , Gao Xiangmin , Li Ying , Mai Jinzhuang , Nie Zhiqiang , Ou Yanqiu , Guo Min , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: April 2018

Background

The American Heart Association (AHA) developed a simplified assessment tool based on seven ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) metrics, but the relationship between the AHA defined ideal CVH metrics and cardiovascular risk in Chinese population has not been well estimated.

Methods

The baseline survey were conducted among 938 Chinese men and women from four urban and rural population samples in China, aged 35–59 years in 1983–1984. The cohort was followed up for multiple cardiovascular endpoints up to 2005. Cox proportional hazard models were used to test the associations accounting for multiple covariates. Outcomes were collected in 1987–2005 and data analysed in 2017.

Results

During a median of 20.3 years follow-up, 68 non-fatal CVD events and 139 deaths (29 CVD deaths) occurred. The multivariable adjusted HRs and 95% CIs for all CVD in the groups with three and 4–7 ideal CVH metrics were 0.59 (95% CI 0.33 to 1.04) and 0.24 (95% CI 0.12 to 0.47), when the group with 0–2 ideal CVH metrics as the reference. Results also showed that participants with 4–7 ideal CVH metrics had a 54% (95% CI 24% to 72%) lower risk of all-cause mortality in comparison with those with 0–2 ideal metrics.

Conclusions

The number of ideal CVH metrics was inversely associated with the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in this Chinese general population.
A Hermite-based lattice Boltzmann model with artificial viscosity for compressible viscous flows
Authors: Qiu Ruofan , Chen Rongqian , Zhu Chenxiang , You Yancheng
Published: April 2018

A lattice Boltzmann model on Hermite basis for compressible viscous flows is presented in this paper. The model is developed in the framework of double-distribution-function approach, which has adjustable specific-heat ratio and Prandtl number. It contains a density distribution function for the flow field and a total energy distribution function for the temperature field. The equilibrium distribution function is determined by Hermite expansion, and the D3Q27 and D3Q39 three-dimensional (3D) discrete velocity models are used, in which the discrete velocity model can be replaced easily. Moreover, an artificial viscosity is introduced to enhance the model for capturing shock waves. The model is tested through several cases of compressible flows, including 3D supersonic viscous flows with boundary layer. The effect of artificial viscosity is estimated. Besides, D3Q27 and D3Q39 models are further compared in the present platform.
Entropy generation and momentum transfer in the superconductor–normal and normal–superconductor phase transformations and the consistency of the conventional theory of superconductivity
Authors: Hirsch J. E.
Published: April 2018

Since the discovery of the Meissner effect, the superconductor to normal (S–N) phase transition in the presence of a magnetic field is understood to be a first-order phase transformation that is reversible under ideal conditions and obeys the laws of thermodynamics. The reverse (N–S) transition is the Meissner effect. This implies in particular that the kinetic energy of the supercurrent is not dissipated as Joule heat in the process where the superconductor becomes normal and the supercurrent stops. In this paper, we analyze the entropy generation and the momentum transfer between the supercurrent and the body in the S–N transition and the N–S transition as described by the conventional theory of superconductivity. We find that it is not possible to explain the transition in a way that is consistent with the laws of thermodynamics unless the momentum transfer between the supercurrent and the body occurs with zero entropy generation, for which the conventional theory of superconductivity provides no mechanism. Instead, we point out that the alternative theory of hole superconductivity does not encounter such difficulties.
Variable cycle control model for intersection based on multi-source information
Authors: Sun Zhi-Yuan , Li Yue , Qu Wen-Cong , Chen Yan-Yan
Published: April 2018

In order to improve the efficiency of traffic control system in the era of big data, a new variable cycle control model based on multi-source information is presented for intersection in this paper. Firstly, with consideration of multi-source information, a unified framework based on cyber-physical system is proposed. Secondly, taking into account the variable length of cell, hysteresis phenomenon of traffic flow and the characteristics of lane group, a Lane group-based Cell Transmission Model is established to describe the physical properties of traffic flow under different traffic signal control schemes. Thirdly, the variable cycle control problem is abstracted into a bi-level programming model. The upper level model is put forward for cycle length optimization considering traffic capacity and delay. The lower level model is a dynamic signal control decision model based on fairness analysis. Then, a Hybrid Intelligent Optimization Algorithm is raised to solve the proposed model. Finally, a case study shows the efficiency and applicability of the proposed model and algorithm.
Passenger flow analysis of Beijing urban rail transit network using fractal approach
Authors: Li Xiaohong , Chen Peiwen , Chen Feng , Wang Zijia
Published: April 2018

To quantify the spatiotemporal distribution of passenger flow and the characteristics of an urban rail transit network, we introduce four radius fractal dimensions and two branch fractal dimensions by combining a fractal approach with passenger flow assignment model. These fractal dimensions can numerically describe the complexity of passenger flow in the urban rail transit network and its change characteristics. Based on it, we establish a fractal quantification method to measure the fractal characteristics of passenger follow in the rail transit network. Finally, we validate the reasonability of our proposed method by using the actual data of Beijing subway network. It has been shown that our proposed method can effectively measure the scale-free range of the urban rail transit network, network development and the fractal characteristics of time-varying passenger flow, which further provides a reference for network planning and analysis of passenger flow.
Lump and rogue waves for the variable-coefficient Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equation in a fluid
Authors: Jia Xiao-Yue , Tian Bo , Du Zhong , Sun Yan , Liu Lei
Published: April 2018

Under investigation in this paper is the variable-coefficient Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equation, which describes the long waves with small amplitude and slow dependence on the transverse coordinate in a single-layer shallow fluid. Employing the bilinear form and symbolic computation, we obtain the lump, mixed lump-stripe soliton and mixed rogue wave-stripe soliton solutions. Discussions indicate that the variable coefficients are related to both the lump soliton’s velocity and amplitude. Mixed lump-stripe soliton solutions display two different properties, fusion and fission. Mixed rogue wave-stripe soliton solutions show that a rogue wave arises from one of the stripe solitons and disappears into the other. When the time approaches 0, rogue wave’s energy reaches the maximum. Interactions between a lump soliton and one-stripe soliton, and between a rogue wave and a pair of stripe solitons, are shown graphically.
Erosion estimation of guide vane end clearance in hydraulic turbines with sediment water flow
Authors: Han Wei , Kang Jingbo , Wang Jie , Peng Guoyi , Li Lianyuan , Su Min
Published: April 2018

The end surface of guide vane or head cover is one of the most serious parts of sediment erosion for high-head hydraulic turbines. In order to investigate the relationship between erosion depth of wall surface and the characteristic parameter of erosion, an estimative method including a simplified flow model and a modificatory erosion calculative function is proposed in this paper. The flow between the end surfaces of guide vane and head cover is simplified as a clearance flow around a circular cylinder with a backward facing step. Erosion characteristic parameter of [Formula: see text] is calculated with the mixture model for multiphase flow and the renormalization group (RNG) k–[Formula: see text] turbulence model under the actual working conditions, based on which, erosion depths of guide vane and head cover end surfaces are estimated with a modification of erosion coefficient K. The estimation results agree well with the actual situation. It is shown that the estimative method is reasonable for erosion prediction of guide vane and can provide a significant reference to determine the optimal maintenance cycle for hydraulic turbine in the future.
Quantum secret information equal exchange protocol based on dense coding
Authors: Jiang Ying-Hua , Zhang Shi-Bin , Dai Jin-Qiao , Shi Zhi-Ping
Published: April 2018

In this paper, we design a novel quantum secret information equal exchange protocol, which implements the equal exchange of secret information between the two parties with the help of semi-trusted third party (TP). In the protocol, EPR pairs prepared by the TP are, respectively, distributed to both the communication parties. Then, the two parties perform Pauli operation on each particle and return the new particles to TP, respectively. TP measures each new pair with Bell basis and announces the measurement results. Both parties deduce the secret information of each other according to the result of announcement by TP. Finally, the security analysis shows that this protocol solves the problem about equal exchange of secret information between two parties and verifies the security of semi-trusted TPs. It proves that the protocol can effectively resist glitch attacks, intercept retransmission attacks and entanglement attack.
Efficient weighting strategy for enhancing synchronizability of complex networks
Authors: Wang Youquan , Yu Feng , Huang Shucheng , Tu Juanjuan , Chen Yan
Published: April 2018

Networks with high propensity to synchronization are desired in many applications ranging from biology to engineering. In general, there are two ways to enhance the synchronizability of a network: link rewiring and/or link weighting. In this paper, we propose a new link weighting strategy based on the concept of the neighborhood subgroup. The neighborhood subgroup of a node i through node j in a network, i.e. [Formula: see text], means that node u belongs to [Formula: see text] if node u belongs to the first-order neighbors of j (not include i). Our proposed weighting schema used the local and global structural properties of the networks such as the node degree, betweenness centrality and closeness centrality measures. We applied the method on scale-free and Watts–Strogatz networks of different structural properties and show the good performance of the proposed weighting scheme. Furthermore, as model networks cannot capture all essential features of real-world complex networks, we considered a number of undirected and unweighted real-world networks. To the best of our knowledge, the proposed weighting strategy outperformed the previously published weighting methods by enhancing the synchronizability of these real-world networks.
Ultrathin reflective acoustic metasurface based on the synergetic coupling of resonant cavity and labyrinthine beams
Authors: Han S. K. , Zhang W. , Ma G. J. , Wu C. W. , Chen Z.
Published: April 2018

We propose a reflective acoustic metasurface by taking advantage of the synergetic coupling of two kinds of widely used elements, the resonant cavity and the labyrinthine beam. A full 2[Formula: see text] phase shift range can be obtained by varying the neck width. The structure manipulates the reflective waves on a very deep subwavelength scale with the thickness being only 1/50 of the wavelength, which eliminates the enormous obstacle in low frequency applications. The synergetic coupling of the resonant cavity and the inner labyrinthine beams provide a useful guide for the design of acoustic metasurfaces.
On Choquet-Pettis Expectation of Banach-Valued Functions: A Counter Example
Authors: Agahi Hamzeh , Mesiar Radko
Published: April 2018

In probability theory, mathematical expectation of a random variable is very important. Choquet expectation (integral), as a generalization of mathematical expectation, is a powerful tool in various areas, mainly in generalized probability theory and decision theory. In vector spaces, combining Choquet expectation and Pettis integral has led to a challenging and an interesting subject for researchers. In this paper, we indicate and discuss a failure in the previous definition of Choquet-Pettis integral of Banach space-valued functions. To obtain a correct definition of Choquet-Pettis integral, an open problem concerning the linearity of the Choquet integral is stated.
TIME-VARYING NETWORK MODELING AND ITS OPTIMAL ROUTING STRATEGY
Authors: KUMARI SUCHI , SINGH ANURAG
Published: April 2018

Since all the existing real world networks are evolving, the study of traffic dynamics is a challenging task. Avoidance of traffic congestion, system utility maximization and enhancement of network capacity are prominent issues. Network capacity may be improved either by optimizing network topology or enhancing in routing approach. In this context, we propose and design a model of the time-varying data communication networks (TVCN) based on the dynamics of inflowing links. Traffic congestion can be avoided by using a suitable centrality measure, especially betweenness and Eigen vector centralities. If the nodes coming in user’s route are most betweenness central, then that route will be highly congested. Eigen vector centrality is used to find the influence of a node on others. If a node is most influential, then it will be highly congested and considered as least reputed. For that reason, routes are chosen such that the sum of the centralities of the nodes coming in user’s route should be minimum. Furthermore, Kelly’s optimization formulation for a rate allocation problem is used for obtaining optimal rates of distinct users at different time instants and it is found that the user’s path with lowest betweenness centrality and highest reputation will always give maximum rate at the stable point.
Derbyshire's oil and refining history: the James ‘Paraffin’ Young connection
Authors: Lea Cliff
Published: April 2018

Following an adventitious oil flow into a coal mine in 1847 in the Riddings area of the county of Derbyshire in the English Midlands, the young Scottish chemist James Young carried out seminal work into the development of oil refining technology. In Derbyshire, by the end of 1848, he set up an early refinery to exploit this oil commercially by distillation, producing both lighting and lubrication fractions which he sold directly to end customers. His findings in Derbyshire led him to move on to investigate production and refining of oil from coal by destructive distillation, technology for which he gained his global reputation; Young's patented technology was adopted by the commercial refineries that were to follow in many countries as the world's oil fields sprang to life.
Distributed (Δ +1)-Coloring in Sublogarithmic Rounds
Authors: Harris David G. , Schneider Johannes , Su Hsin-Hao
Published: April 2018

We give a new randomized distributed algorithm for (Δ +1)-coloring in the LOCAL model, running in
O
(√ log Δ)+ 2

O
(√log log
n

) rounds in a graph of maximum degree Δ. This implies that the (Δ +1)-coloring problem is easier than the maximal independent set problem and the maximal matching problem, due to their lower bounds of Ω(min(√/log
n
log log
n
, /log Δ log log Δ)) by Kuhn, Moscibroda, and Wattenhofer [PODC’04]. Our algorithm also extends to list-coloring where the palette of each node contains Δ +1 colors. We extend the set of distributed symmetry-breaking techniques by performing a decomposition of graphs into dense and sparse parts.
Fast Miss Ratio Curve Modeling for Storage Cache
Authors: Hu Xiameng , Wang Xiaolin , Zhou Lan , Luo Yingwei , Wang Zhenlin , Ding Chen , Ye Chencheng
Published: April 2018

The reuse distance (least recently used (LRU) stack distance) is an essential metric for performance prediction and optimization of storage cache. Over the past four decades, there have been steady improvements in the algorithmic efficiency of reuse distance measurement. This progress is accelerating in recent years, both in theory and practical implementation.

In this article, we present a kinetic model of LRU cache memory, based on the average eviction time (AET) of the cached data. The AET model enables fast measurement and use of low-cost sampling. It can produce the miss ratio curve in linear time with extremely low space costs. On storage trace benchmarks, AET reduces the time and space costs compared to former techniques. Furthermore, AET is a composable model that can characterize shared cache behavior through sampling and modeling individual programs or traces.
Drug-Induced Stevens–Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Call for Optimum Patient Stratification and Theranostics via Pharmacogenomics
Authors: Sukasem Chonlaphat , Katsila Theodora , Tempark Therdpong , Patrinos George P. , Chantratita Wasun
Published: April 2018

The Global Genomic Medicine Collaborative, a multinational coalition of genomic and policy experts working to implement genomics in clinical care, considers pharmacogenomics to be among the first areas in genomic medicine that can provide guidance in routine clinical practice, by linking genetic variation and drug response. Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are severe life-threatening reactions to medications with a high incidence worldwide. Genomic screening prior to drug administration is a key opportunity and potential paradigm for using genomic medicine to reduce morbidity and mortality and ultimately eliminate one of the most devastating adverse drug reactions. This review focuses on the current understanding of the surveillance, pathogenesis, and treatment of SJS/TEN, including the role of genomics and pharmacogenomics in the etiology, treatment, and eradication of preventable causes of drug-induced SJS/TEN. Gaps, unmet needs, and priorities for future research have been identified for the optimal management of drug-induced SJS/TEN in various ethnic populations. Pharmacogenomics holds great promise for optimal patient stratification and theranostics, yet its clinical implementation needs to be cost-effective and sustainable.
Keynote lecture: strategies for optimal cardiovascular aging
Authors: Seals Douglas R. , Brunt Vienna E. , Rossman Matthew J.
Published: April 2018

This review summarizes the opening keynote presentation overview of the American Physiological Society Conference on Cardiovascular Aging: New Frontiers and Old Friends held in Westminster, CO, in August 2017. Age is the primary risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Without effective intervention, future increases in the number of older adults will translate to a greater prevalence of CVDs and related disorders. Advancing age increases the risk of CVDs partly via direct effects on the heart and through increases in blood pressure; however, much of the risk is mediated by vascular dysfunction, including large elastic artery stiffening and both macro- and microvascular endothelial dysfunction. Although excessive superoxide-related oxidative stress and chronic low-grade inflammation are the major processes driving cardiovascular aging, the upstream mechanisms involved represent new frontiers of investigation and potential therapeutic targets. Lifestyle practices, including aerobic exercise, energy intake (caloric) restriction, and healthy diet composition, are the most evidence-based strategies (old friends) for optimal cardiovascular aging, but adherence is poor in some groups. Healthy lifestyle “mimicking” approaches, including novel forms of physical training, intermittent fasting paradigms, exercise/healthy diet-inspired nutraceuticals (functional foods and natural supplements), as well as controlled environmental stress exposure (e.g., heat therapy), may hold promise but are unproven. Mitigating the adverse effects of aging on cardiovascular function and health is a high biomedical priority.
Airway Epithelium Dysfunction in Cystic Fibrosis and COPD
Authors: De Rose Virginia , Molloy Kevin , Gohy Sophie , Pilette Charles , Greene Catherine M.
Published: April 2018

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, whereas chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is mainly caused by environmental factors (mostly cigarette smoking) on a genetically susceptible background. Although the etiology and pathogenesis of these diseases are different, both are associated with progressive airflow obstruction, airway neutrophilic inflammation, and recurrent exacerbations, suggesting common mechanisms. The airway epithelium plays a crucial role in maintaining normal airway functions. Major molecular and morphologic changes occur in the airway epithelium in both CF and COPD, and growing evidence suggests that airway epithelial dysfunction is involved in disease initiation and progression in both diseases. Structural and functional abnormalities in both airway and alveolar epithelium have a relevant impact on alteration of host defences, immune/inflammatory response, and the repair process leading to progressive lung damage and impaired lung function. In this review, we address the evidence for a critical role of dysfunctional airway epithelial cells in chronic airway inflammation and remodelling in CF and COPD, highlighting the common mechanisms involved in the epithelial dysfunction as well as the similarities and differences of the two diseases.
Coping with Cognitive Impairment in People with Parkinson’s Disease and Their Carers: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lawson Rachael A. , Collerton Daniel , Taylor John-Paul , Burn David J. , Brittain Katie R.
Published: April 2018

Cognitive impairment is common in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the psychosocial impact of living and coping with PD and cognitive impairment in people with PD and their carers have not been explored. This paper draws on a qualitative study that explores the subjective impact of cognitive impairment on people with PD and their carers. Thirty-six one-to-one interviews were completed; people with PD were from three groups: normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia. Data collection and analysis were iterative, and verbatim transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Themes were interpreted in consultation with coping and adaptation theory. The analysis revealed four main themes: threats to identity and role, predeath grief and feelings of loss in carers, success and challenges to coping in people with PD, and problem-focused coping and finding meaning in caring. Our data highlight how cognitive impairment can threaten an individual’s self-perception; the ostensible effects of cognitive impairment depended on the impact individual’s perceived cognitive impairment had on their daily lives. For carers, cognitive impairment had a greater emotional impact than the physical symptoms of PD. The discussion that developed around protective factors provides possible opportunities for future interventions, such as psychological therapies to improve successful adjustment.
Evaluating Eye Drop Instillation Technique and Its Determinants in Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Gao Xinbo , Yang Qiongman , Huang Wenmin , Chen Tingting , Zuo Chengguo , Li Xinyan , Gao Wuyou , Xiao Huiming
Published: April 2018

Aim. To evaluate eye drop instillation technique and to explore its determinants in glaucoma patients. Methods. One hundred and thirteen patients diagnosed with glaucoma and self-administering topical antiglaucoma eye drops for at least 1 month were evaluated. All patients instilled artificial tear solution in one eye as they would do at home. The whole process was evaluated by two study staff. A comprehensive score system associated with eye drop instillation techniques was used to quantify the instillation technique and explore its determinants such as demographic and clinical characteristics. Results. Half of the patients (48.67%) finished the administration of eye drop on first attempt.1.7 eye drops were squeezed out on average. 43 patients (37.17%) got contact with ocular surface or adnexa. Only 19.7% patients had eye drop instillation techniques being defined as well. 11 patients (9.7%) had prior instruction regarding using eye drops, while only 4 patients knew to occlude the tear duct by pressing the dacryocyst area. Older age and worse visual acuity were found to be independent risk factors for worse instillation technique. Conclusions. Eye drop instillation technique in glaucoma patients deserves great attention from eye care practitioners during their lifelong follow-up, especially those aged older and have worse visual acuity.
Optimal Control Scheme of the Tethered System for Orbital Transfer under a Constant Thrust
Authors: Sun Liang , Zhao Guowei , Huang Hai , Chen Ming
Published: April 2018

The tethered system with a long tether has its unique advantages in space environment exploration. With the development of requirement, the orbital transfer of the tethered system under a constant thrust and its related optimal control become significant and challenging. Three different optimal control schemes of the tethered system are proposed, including the tension control, the thrust vector control, and the mixed control. In the tension control, in order to ensure the smoothness of pendular motion of the tethered system, different cost functions are adopted and compared. In the thrust vector control, the constraint of thrust direction angle is fully considered. In the mixed control, equivalent conditions to other control schemes are investigated. The advantages and disadvantages of three optimal control schemes are compared and analyzed, which provides a reference for research on the optimal control problem of the tethered system under a constant thrust.
Depressive Symptoms in Individuals after Stroke in a Home-Based Rehabilitation Setting
Authors: Vermeer Julianne , McIntyre Amanda , Janzen Shannon , Rice Danielle , Allen Laura , Ure David , Teasell Robert
Published: April 2018

Poststroke depression has been shown to affect rehabilitation progress. This study evaluated patients after stroke who actively participated in a home-based rehabilitation program to determine variables that correlated with depressive symptoms in this population. A retrospective review of patients who were provided rehabilitation by Community Stroke Rehabilitation Team clinicians between January 1, 2009, and September 30, 2015, was completed. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine which demographic and outcome variables (Functional Independence Measure [FIM™] and Reintegration to Normal Living Index [RNLI]) were independently associated with depressive symptoms, as defined by Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) scores. 889 patients (53.2% male, mean age = 69.8 years) were included. Based on PHQ-9 scores, 89.7% of patients presented with no or mild depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 < 10) and 10.3% were considered to have moderate to severe depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥ 10). The regression demonstrated that referral from outpatient, community care access centre, or community settings (OR = 1.89, p=0.04), low RNLI scores (OR = 0.92; p=0.001), and younger age (OR = 0.96; p<0.001) predicted patients having moderate to severe depressive symptoms. Given the impact of poststroke depression on rehabilitation, clinicians should consider the potential impact of referral source, community reintegration, and age when monitoring and treating depressive symptoms.