bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Regularized Locality Projection-Based Sparsity Discriminant Analysis for Face Recognition
Authors: Yu Chuanbo , Nie Rencan , Zhou Dongming
Published: October 2017

Manifold learning and classifiers based on sparse representation are widely used in pattern recognition. Most of the conventional manifold learning methods are subjected to the choice of parameters. In this paper, we present a Regularized Locality Projection based on Sparsity Discriminant Analysis (RLPSD) method for Feature Extraction (FE) to understand the high-dimensional data such as face images. In RLPSD, firstly, we show the sparse representation of training samples by collaborative representation-based classification (CRC). Secondly, the idea of part optimization based on sparse representation is used to ensure the within-class compactness which combines with the labels of measurements and the weights of sparse presentation can be as small as possible. Finally, whole optimization can be directly obtained without the iteration of local optimization. Meanwhile, the separability information of between-class can be well discriminated by scatter matrix which is similar to Fisher linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The great recognition performance of the proposed method is verified by comparing with the popular algorithms on Yale, ORL, AR and Extended YaleB face databases and Oxford 102 flowers dataset.
A hybrid three-scale model of tumor growth
Authors: Rocha H. L. , Almeida R. C. , Lima E. A. B. F. , Resende A. C. M. , Oden J. T. , Yankeelov T. E.
Published: October 2017

Cancer results from a complex interplay of different biological, chemical, and physical phenomena that span a wide range of time and length scales. Computational modeling may help to unfold the role of multiple evolving factors that exist and interact in the tumor microenvironment. Understanding these complex multiscale interactions is a crucial step toward predicting cancer growth and in developing effective therapies. We integrate different modeling approaches in a multiscale, avascular, hybrid tumor growth model encompassing tissue, cell, and sub-cell scales. At the tissue level, we consider the dispersion of nutrients and growth factors in the tumor microenvironment, which are modeled through reaction–diffusion equations. At the cell level, we use an agent-based model (ABM) to describe normal and tumor cell dynamics, with normal cells kept in homeostasis and cancer cells differentiated into quiescent, proliferative, migratory, apoptotic, hypoxic, and necrotic states. Cell movement is driven by the balance of a variety of forces according to Newton’s second law, including those related to growth-induced stresses. Phenotypic transitions are defined by specific rule of behaviors that depend on microenvironment stimuli. We integrate in each cell/agent a branch of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway. This pathway is modeled by a system of coupled nonlinear differential equations involving the mass laws of 20 molecules. The rates of change in the concentration of some key molecules trigger proliferation or migration advantage response. The bridge between cell and tissue scales is built through the reaction and source terms of the partial differential equations. Our hybrid model is built in a modular way, enabling the investigation of the role of different mechanisms at multiple scales on tumor progression. This strategy allows representing both the collective behavior due to cell assembly as well as microscopic intracellular phenomena described by signal transduction pathways. Here, we investigate the impact of some mechanisms associated with sustained proliferation on cancer progression. Speci- fically, we focus on the intracellular proliferation/migration-advantage-response driven by the EGFR pathway and on proliferation inhibition due to accumulation of growth-induced stresses. Simulations demonstrate that the model can adequately describe some complex mechanisms of tumor dynamics, including growth arrest in avascular tumors. Both the sub-cell model and growth-induced stresses give rise to heterogeneity in the tumor expansion and a rich variety of tumor behaviors.
Optimizing the Kelvin force in a moving target subdomain
Authors: Antil Harbir , Nochetto Ricardo H. , Venegas Pablo
Published: October 2017

In order to generate a desired Kelvin (magnetic) force in a target subdomain moving along a prescribed trajectory, we propose a minimization problem with a tracking type cost functional. We use the so-called dipole approximation to realize the magnetic field, where the location and the direction of the magnetic sources are assumed to be fixed. The magnetic field intensity acts as the control and exhibits limiting pointwise constraints. We address two specific problems: the first one corresponds to a fixed final time whereas the second one deals with an unknown force to minimize the final time. We prove existence of solutions and deduce local uniqueness provided that a second-order sufficient condition is valid. We use the classical backward Euler scheme for time discretization. For both problems we prove the [Formula: see text]-weak convergence of this semi-discrete numerical scheme. This result is motivated by [Formula: see text]-convergence and does not require second-order sufficient condition. If the latter holds then we prove [Formula: see text]-strong local convergence. We report computational results to assess the performance of the numerical methods. As an application, we study the control of magnetic nanoparticles as those used in magnetic drug delivery, where the optimized Kelvin force is used to transport the drug to a desired location.
A remarkable 20-crossing tangle
Authors: Eliahou Shalom , Fromentin Jean
Published: October 2017

For any positive integer [Formula: see text], we exhibit a prime knot [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] crossings whose Jones polynomial [Formula: see text] is equal to [Formula: see text] modulo [Formula: see text]. Our construction rests on a certain [Formula: see text]-crossing prime tangle [Formula: see text] which is undetectable by the Kauffman bracket polynomial pair mod [Formula: see text].
On the skein theory of dichromatic links and invariants of finite type
Authors: Bataineh Khaled
Published: October 2017

In [Dichromatic link invariants, Trans. Amer. Math. Soc. 321(1) (1990) 197–229], Hoste and Kidwell investigated the skein theory of oriented dichromatic links in [Formula: see text]. They introduced a multi-variable polynomial invariant [Formula: see text]. We use special substitutions for some of the parameters of the invariant [Formula: see text] to show how to deduce invariants of finite type from [Formula: see text] using partial derivatives. Then we consider the 2-component 1-trivial dichromatic links. We study the Vassiliev invariants of the 2-component in the complement of the 1-component, which is equivalent to studying Vassiliev invariants for knots in [Formula: see text] We give combinatorial formulas for the type-zero and type-one invariants and we connect these invariants to existing invariants such as Aicardi's invariant. This provides us with a topological meaning of the first partial derivative, which is also shown to be universal as a type-one invariant.
Knot fertility and lineage
Authors: Cantarella Jason , Henrich Allison , Magness Elsa , O’Keefe Oliver , Perez Kayla , Rawdon Eric , Zimmer Briana
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we introduce a new type of relation between knots called the descendant relation. One knot [Formula: see text] is a descendant of another knot [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] can be obtained from a minimal crossing diagram of [Formula: see text] by some number of crossing changes. We explore properties of the descendant relation and study how certain knots are related, paying particular attention to those knots, called fertile knots, that have a large number of descendants. Furthermore, we provide computational data related to various notions of knot fertility and propose several open questions for future exploration.
Probing dark energy with braneworld cosmology in the light of recent cosmological data
Authors: García-Aspeitia Miguel A. , Magaña Juan , Hernández-Almada A. , Motta V.
Published: October 2017

We investigate a brane model based on Randall–Sundrum scenarios with a generic dark energy component. The latter drives the accelerated expansion at late-times of the universe. In this scheme, extra terms are added into Einstein Field equations that are propagated to the Friedmann equations. To constrain the dark energy equation-of-state (EoS) and the brane tension we use observational data with different energy levels (Supernovae Type Ia, [Formula: see text], baryon acoustic oscillations, and cosmic microwave background radiation distance, and a joint analysis) in a background cosmology. Beside EoS being consistent with a cosmological constant at the [Formula: see text] confidence level for each dataset, the baryon acoustic oscillations probe favors an EoS consistent with a quintessence dark energy. Although we found different lower limit bounds on the brane tension for each dataset, being the most restricted for CMB, there is not enough evidence of modifications in the cosmological evolution of the universe by the existence of an extra dimension within observational uncertainties. Nevertheless, these new bounds are complementary to those obtained by other probes like table-top experiments, Big Bang Nucleosynthesis, and stellar dynamics. Our results show that a further test of the braneworld model with appropriate correction terms or a profound analysis with perturbations, may be needed to improve the constraints provided by the current data.
Nonlinear Distortion Characteristic Analysis for the Finite Amplitude Sound Pressures in the Pistonphone
Authors: Zhang Fan , He Wen , Zhong Junjie
Published: October 2017

The wide concern on absolute calibration of microphones at high pressure levels prompts the development of the pistonphone technique. However, as the sound pressure level goes higher, the linear hypothesis, which is applicable for the small amplitude sound wave, will no longer be valid. The nonlinear characteristics of the finite amplitude sound wave will produce high order harmonic components and also some other complex frequency components, which eventually result in the distortion of the sound pressure in the pistonphone, and should be quantitatively calculated to assess the accuracy of absolute sound pressure calibration of microphones at high sound pressure levels using pistonphones. In this paper, the linearized wave equations were built based on the perturbation method and the Euler system. Then, the distributed parameter expressions for the finite amplitude sound pressure both neglecting and considering the intermodulation characteristic have been explicitly derived. Nonlinear distortion characteristics of the sound pressure in the pistonphone have been studied, and the effects of the intermodulation on the sound pressure distortion have been evaluated. Computations reveal that the nonlinear distortion characteristics of the sound pressure produced by pistonphones should be quantitatively considered when the sound pressure level reaches 148[Formula: see text]dB, and the intermodulation characteristic can be neglected when the sound pressure level is lower than 174[Formula: see text]dB.
INFLUENCE OF TITANIUM TETRAISOPROPOXIDE CONCENTRATION ON THE ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF TiO2 THIN FILMS
Authors: TAHA ALI A. , AL-JAWAD SELMA M. H. , SALIM MOHAMMED M.
Published: October 2017

In this study, titanium dioxide thin films were successfully prepared via sol–gel method. Titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP) as a precursor solution was used to prepare different concentrations and deposited by spin coating. All prepared films were inspected by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XRD patterns show that all samples have anatase crystal structure. Transmittance spectra were measured by using UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The optical band gaps were 3.55, 3.62 and 3.78 eV for TTIP concentrations of 6, 6.3 and 6.6[Formula: see text]ml, respectively. Antibacterial activity of TiO2 films against S. aureus and E. coli was evaluated by international recognized test (JIS Z 2801). The test revealed incrementally increase in antibacterial activity of the films with TTIP concentrations activated by UV light.
SYNTHESIS OF NEW NITROBENZYLIDENE DERIVATIVES AND PYRROLE-BASED COPOLYMERS FOR DYE-SENSITIZED SOLAR CELLS: EFFECT OF SUBSTITUENT ON OPTO-ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF DIP-COATED THIN FILMS
Authors: REMIL ABDERRAHMANNE , MOUCHAAL YOUNES , REGUIG ABDELKARIM BENDOUKHA , TOUMI ABDERAHMANNE LAKHDAR , GHERRASS HAMOU , HACHEMAOUI AISHA , YAHIAOUI AHMED , KHELIL ABDELBACET
Published: October 2017

The mastery of the optoelectronic properties of conjugated copolymers by substituting their radicals is a promising way for increasing the light absorption and charge career transport in the organic devices active layer. In this paper, we present the chemical synthesis of four different conjugated benzaldehyde derivatives and pyrrole-based copolymers (P–P:B) followed by their conception in thin films on glass substrates by dip coating root from a solution in dichloromethane. UV–Vis measurements showed absorption in good part of the visible region, with an optical gap around 2 eV. Morphological properties observed by scanning electron microscope of the four P–P:B based thin films illustrated homogenous and continuous surfaces with roughness and surface shape that can be modulated according to Nitrobenzylidene derivative that contains the copolymer. First oxidation ([Formula: see text]) and reduction ([Formula: see text]) potentials of synthetized copolymers have been estimated by cyclic voltammetry which led us to estimate the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO), respectively. The HOMO and LUMO energy level diagram of P–P:B compared with the most commonly used organic materials as donor/acceptor couples showed a cascade shape, which allowed us to opt for organic solar cells based on multiple active layers in our aim to improve its performance.
The index of a quartic field defined by a trinomial X4 + aX + b
Authors: Davis Chad T. , Spearman Blair K.
Published: October 2017

Consider an irreducible quartic polynomial of the form [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] satisfy [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] denotes the exact power of a rational prime [Formula: see text] that divides an integer. Such a polynomial is called a [Formula: see text]-minimal quartic. Let [Formula: see text] be a field defined by a [Formula: see text]-minimal quartic. In this paper, we use [Formula: see text]-integral bases and introduce the concept of [Formula: see text]-index forms in order to determine the field index of [Formula: see text] via the coefficients of a defining polynomial in terms of certain congruence conditions.
Performance of Blood Flow with Suspension of Nanoparticles Through Tapered Stenosed Artery for Jeferey Fluid Model
Authors: Shah Sapna Ratan , Kumar Rohit
Published: October 2017

This paper presents the effect of heat and mass transfer on the blood flow through a tapered stenosed artery assuming blood as a Jeffrey fluid model. The equations governing the blood flow are modeled in cylindrical coordinates. Analytical solutions are constructed for the velocity, temperature, concentration and flux by solving flow governing nonlinear coupled equations using Homotopy Perturbation Method. The important characteristics of blood flow such as concentration and temperature are found by using Homotopy Perturbation Method and these solutions are used to find exact solution for velocity profile. Variation in velocity, temperature, concentration and flux profiles for different values of thermophoresis and Brownian motion parameter are discussed. Homotopy Perturbation Method technique is used to calculate these expressions and Matlab programming is used to find computational results. And then computational results are presented graphically. The significance of the present model over the existing models has been pointed out by comparing the result with other theories both analytically and numerically. Here, in this paper, we have discussed some important phenomena raised in biotechnology and medicine at the nanoscale. So, this paper about nanoparticles behavior could be useful in the development of new diagnosis tools for many diseases in medical field, biotechnology as well as in medicine at the nanoscale.
Evaluating and Optimizing Technological Innovation Efficiency of Industrial Enterprises Based on Both Data and Judgments
Authors: Gu Wei , Saaty Thomas L. , Wei Lirong
Published: October 2017

Technological innovation as one of the most important competitive strategies for companies has attracted the attentions of companies and governments. In this paper, we present an evaluation method based on data and judgments to rank the technological innovation capability and technological innovation efficiency of enterprises of various sizes in China. Furthermore, based on the efficiency measures, we design a model for the government to optimally allocate innovation resource to businesses, i.e. prioritize public expenditures dedicated to innovation. In evaluating the efficiency of industrial enterprises, we employ the “input-process-output” perspective to identify multiple criteria. We also take into account the cost of technological innovation in efficiency assessment. The optimization model proposed for government is to maximize the overall efficiency of resources utilization. We adopt the genetic algorithm as the solution methodology to solve the optimization model. Simulation is conducted to validate the model and the algorithm. The research framework proposed in paper can be adapted for government in many countries to better distribute resources for technological innovation and development.
Reaction mechanism of the cation radicals of thymine and thymine derivatives in aqueous solution: A theoretical study
Authors: Wu Lidan , Meng Xiaoyan , Wang Xuejun , Yu Leshu , Peng Siyan , Xie Jianying
Published: October 2017

Mechanisms of decomposition reaction of thymine cation radicals (T[Formula: see text]), 1-methyl substituted T[Formula: see text] (1-MeT[Formula: see text]), and 1,3-dimethyl substituted T[Formula: see text] (1,3-Me2T[Formula: see text]) generated by ionizing radiation or one-electron oxidation to thymine, 1-methylthymine and 1,3-dimethylthymine in aqueous solution have been investigated by theoretical calculations. Seven reaction paths including H2O or OH[Formula: see text] addition, and deprotonation were considered. The most likely reaction for T[Formula: see text] decomposition is N1 deprotonation forming T(-N1H)[Formula: see text]. When N1 hydrogen is replaced by methyl, T[Formula: see text] would deprotonate from C5 methyl group generating 1-methyl substituted UCH[Formula: see text] in neutral solution, and reaction with OH[Formula: see text] producing 1-methyl substituted T6OH[Formula: see text] in basic solution. When N1 and N3 hydrogens are both replaced by methyl, T[Formula: see text] decomposition reaction is similar to 1-MeT[Formula: see text], indicating that N3 hydrogen barely influences the subsequent reaction of 1-MeT[Formula: see text]. These results can provide theoretical support for experimental observations.
Utilizing networks for differential analysis of chromatin interactions
Authors: Liu Lu , Ruan Jianhua
Published: October 2017

Chromatin conformation capture with high-throughput sequencing (Hi-C) is a powerful technique to detect genome-wide chromatin interactions. In this paper, we introduce two novel approaches to detect differentially interacting genomic regions between two Hi-C experiments using a network model. To make input data from multiple experiments comparable, we propose a normalization strategy guided by network topological properties. We then devise two measurements, using local and global connectivity information from the chromatin interaction networks, respectively, to assess the interaction differences between two experiments. When multiple replicates are present in experiments, our approaches provide the flexibility for users to either pool all replicates together to therefore increase the network coverage, or to use the replicates in parallel to increase the signal to noise ratio. We show that while the local method works better in detecting changes from simulated networks, the global method performs better on real Hi-C data. The local and global methods, regardless of pooling, are always superior to two existing methods. Furthermore, our methods work well on both unweighted and weighted networks and our normalization strategy significantly improves the performance compared with raw networks without normalization. Therefore, we believe our methods will be useful for identifying differentially interacting genomic regions.
An Adaptive Continuation Method for Topology Optimization of Continuum Structures Considering Buckling Constraints
Authors: Gao Xingjun , Li Lijuan , Ma Haitao
Published: October 2017

This paper presents an adaptive continuation method for buckling topology optimization of continuum structures using the Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization (SIMP) model. For optimization problems of minimizing structural compliance subject to constraints on material volume and buckling load factors, it has been found that the conflict between the requirements for structural stiffness and stability may have an adverse impact on the performance of existing optimization algorithms. An automatic scheme for adjusting the penalization parameter is introduced to deal with this conflict and thus achieves better designs. Based on an investigation on the effect of the penalization parameter on design evolution during the optimization process, a rule is established to determine the appropriate penalization parameter values. Using this rule, an effective scheme is developed for determining the penalization parameter values such that the buckling constraints are appropriately considered throughout the optimization process. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Menon-type identities concerning Dirichlet characters
Authors: Tóth László
Published: October 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a Dirichlet character (mod [Formula: see text]) with conductor [Formula: see text]. In a quite recent paper Zhao and Cao deduced the identity [Formula: see text], which reduces to Menon’s identity if [Formula: see text] is the principal character (mod [Formula: see text]). We generalize the above identity by considering even functions (mod [Formula: see text]), and offer an alternative approach to prove. We also obtain certain related formulas concerning Ramanujan sums.
Congruences for some partitions related to mock theta functions
Authors: Cui Su-Ping , Gu Nancy S. S. , Hao Li-Jun
Published: October 2017

Partitions related to mock theta functions were widely studied in the literature. Recently, Andrews et al. introduced two new kinds of partitions counted by [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], whose generating functions are [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are two third mock theta functions. Meanwhile, they obtained some congruences for [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and the associated smallest parts function [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, Andrews et al. discussed the overpartition analogues of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] which are denoted by [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we derive more congruences for [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we establish some congruences for [Formula: see text] and its associated smallest parts function [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] denotes the number of overpartitions of [Formula: see text] such that all even parts are at most twice the smallest part, and in which the smallest part is always overlined.
Supercongruences related to 3F2(1) involving harmonic numbers
Authors: Tauraso Roberto
Published: October 2017

We provide various supercongruences for truncated series which involve central binomial coefficients and harmonic numbers. The corresponding infinite series are also evaluated.
A Clean Hydroprocessing of Jatropha Oil into Biofuels over a High Performance Ni-HPW/CNT Catalyst
Authors: Yang Xiaosong , Li Xiaoming , Liu Jing , Rong Long
Published: October 2017

The nickel (Ni) and phosphotungstic acid (HPW) supported on carbon nanotubes (CNT) were prepared by impregnation method for hydroprocessing of Jatropha oil. The Ni-HPW/CNT catalyst was characterized by XRD, XPS, FT-IR, N2 adsorption-desorption, SEM, NH3-TPD, and TGA. The effects of reaction parameters, such as reaction temperature (280–400[Formula: see text]C), time-on-stream (0–100[Formula: see text]h), types of support, the amount of added HPW, and coking deposition were investigated. The cracking performance was evaluated by gas chromatography (GC). The yield of C15–C18 alkanes was 88.5[Formula: see text]wt.%, Iso/n ratio was 0.8 and conversion was 97.7% at 320[Formula: see text]C, 3.0[Formula: see text]MPa and 1.0/h over the Ni-HPW/CNT catalyst, while the yield of [Formula: see text] alkanes reached 51.9[Formula: see text]wt.% at 400[Formula: see text]C. The distribution of products could be adjusted by reaction temperature. The cracking performance was elevated by the addition of HPW and the electrical conductivity. The C15–C18 alkanes were further cracked through two cracking circulations. Meanwhile, the catalyst was used without sulfurization and the cracking process was green.
The structural optimization of roadheader conical picks based on fatigue life
Authors: Lu Zhenguo , Wan Lirong , Zeng Qingliang , Zhang Xin , Gao Kuidong
Published: October 2017

Conical picks are the key cutting components used on roadheaders, and they are replaced frequently because of the bad working conditions. Picks did not meet the fatigue life when they were damaged by abrasion, so the pick fatigue life and strength are excessive. In the paper, in order to reduce the abrasion and save the materials, structure optimization was carried out. For static analysis and fatigue life prediction, the simulation program was proposed based on mathematical models to obtain the cutting resistance. Furthermore, the finite element models for static analysis and fatigue life analysis were proposed. The results indicated that fatigue life damage and strength failure of the cutting pick would never happen. Subsequently, the initial optimization model and the finite element model of picks were developed. According to the optimized results, a new type of pick was developed based on the working and installing conditions of the traditional pick. Finally, the previous analysis methods used for traditional methods were carried out again for the new type picks. The results show that new type of pick can satisfy the strength and fatigue life requirements.
Thermo-kinetic investigation of heavy metal ions adsorption onto lignin considering coupled adsorption–desorption mechanisms: Modeling and experimental validation
Authors: Seyedvakili Farnaz , Samipoorgiri Mohammad
Published: October 2017

A coupled adsorption–desorption thermo-kinetic model is developed incorporating both adsorption and desorption reactions. A local pseudo-equilibrium condition at the interface of adsorbent and adsorbate bulk phases was used as isotherm equation which can even be applied for multi-pollutants scenarios. The developed model is then validated using collected experimental data of heavy metal ions (Pb, Cu, Cd, Zn, and Ni). Comparisons were made for a number of isotherm and kinetic models to examine the performance of the proposed model. The developed model revealed desirable accuracy and superiority over other models in predicting the adsorption behavior and can be used for other systems of concern. The model correlates the adsorption kinetic with an [Formula: see text] value of 0.9391 and desorption kinetic with an [Formula: see text] value of 0.9383. By application of the proposed model to any available adsorption datasets, the individual characteristics of adsorption and desorption can be determined.
Simulation of Thin Green Roof for Summer in Seoul
Authors: Byun K. H.
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this paper is to simulate the performance of thin green roofs during summer in Seoul, where there are four seasons. Many experimental studies are available for the green roofs, but there have not been many analytical studies. Numerical analysis is applied to a simple model developed for this study. The effects of the parameters affecting green roof performance are studied using several roof types. The weather data from Korea Meteorological Administration for the summer in Seoul have been used as an input for the simulation model. The results agree with the trends reported in previous studies. The importance of insulation status of the roof before applying green roof and the climate conditions is confirmed. Analysis such as this paper is necessary and useful before applying green roof or planning experiment on green roof.
Two‐Dimensional Temperature Field Distribution Reconstruction Based on Least Square Method and Radial Basis Function Approximation
Authors: Jia Ruixi , Xiong Qingyu
Published: October 2017

The information of temperature field distribution is complex but quite important for theoretical study and industrial applications, such as burning, drying, and heating, because it can reflect the internal running state of industrial equipment, assist to develop control strategy, and ensure safety in operation. Acoustic imaging is a kind of noncontact temperature measurement technique which is able to achieve temperature field distribution reconstruction. The process of temperature field distribution reconstruction using acoustic imaging is an inverse problem and its reconstruction performance depends on reconstruction algorithm. In this paper, a modified reconstruction algorithm is investigated. Compared with other reconstruction methods of least square algorithm and radial basis function approximation, the reconstruction results indicate that the modified reconstruction algorithm occupies the best information reflection of temperature field distribution and the reconstruction accuracy is improved.
Acute Strenuous Exercise Induces an Imbalance on Histone H4 Acetylation/Histone Deacetylase 2 and Increases the Proinflammatory Profile of PBMC of Obese Individuals
Authors: Dorneles Gilson P. , Boeira Maria Carolina R. , Schipper Lucas L. , Silva Ivy R. V. , Elsner Viviane R. , Dal Lago Pedro , Peres Alessandra , Romão Pedro R. T.
Published: October 2017

This study evaluated the response of global histone H4 acetylation (H4ac), histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) activity, as well as the production of proinflammatory cytokines and monocyte phenotypes of lean and obese males after exercise. Ten lean and ten obese sedentary men were submitted to one session of strenuous exercise, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were stimulated in vitro with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Global H4ac levels, HDAC2 activity in PBMC, and IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α production were analyzed. Monocyte phenotype was determined in accordance with the expression of CD14 and CD16. At rest, obese individuals presented higher frequency of proinflammatory CD14+CD16+ monocytes. LPS induced a significant augment in global H4ac and in the production of IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α mainly in obese individuals. After exercise, the increased production of IL‐8 and TNF‐α and peripheral frequency of CD14+CD16+ were observed in both groups. In addition, exercise also induced a significant hyperacetylation of histone H4 and decreased HDAC2 activity in both nonstimulated and LPS‐stimulated PBMC of obese individuals. Our data indicate that the obesity impacts on H4ac levels and that strenuous exercise leads to an enhanced chronic low‐grade inflammation profile in obesity via an imbalance on H4ac/HDAC2.
Combined Treatment with an Anticoagulant and a Vasodilator Prevents Steroid-Associated Osteonecrosis of Rabbit Femoral Heads by Improving Hypercoagulability
Authors: Cao Fang , Liu Ge , Wang Wei , Wang Benjie , Wei Xiaowei , Lu Faqiang , Yang Fan , Kang Kai , Wang Yongxuan , Yang Jiahui , Qin Kairong , Zhao Dewei
Published: October 2017

Steroid-associated osteonecrosis of the femoral head remains a challenging problem in orthopedics worldwide. One pathomechanism is ischemia of the femoral head, as a result of thrombus formation and vasoconstriction. The present study investigates the effects of combination prevention with enoxaparin and EGb 761 on steroid-associated ONFH in rabbits. Rabbits were randomly divided into 5 groups (control group, model group, enoxaparin group, ginkgo group, and combination group). With the exception of the control group, the groups of rabbits were modeled with lipopolysaccharide and methylprednisolone acetate. Starting with modeling, the enoxaparin group and ginkgo group were injected with 1 μg/kg/day enoxaparin subcutaneously and orally given 40 mg/kg/day EGb 761 for 4 weeks, respectively; the combination group received both treatments. After modeling for 6 weeks, the hematology data indicated prolonged PT and APTT in the three prevention groups. The micro-CT examination revealed higher bone density and better structure; histomorphometry revealed significant pathological changes. Immunohistochemistry revealed higher expression of BMP-2 and VEGF, thus revealing better osteogenesis and angiogenesis activities. Among the three prevention groups, the combination group had the most efficient results. In conclusion, the combined prevention with an anticoagulant and a vasodilator has the potential to decrease the incidence of steroid-associated ONFH in rabbits.
Increased Oxidative Damage of RNA in Early‐Stage Nephropathy in db/db Mice
Authors: Wang Wan-Xia , Luo Shun-Bin , Jiang Ping , Xia Meng-Ming , Hei Ai-lian , Mao Yong-Hui , Li Chuan-Bao , Hu Guo-Xin , Cai Jian-Ping
Published: October 2017

To evaluate RNA oxidation in the early stage of diabetic nephropathy, we applied an accurate method based on isotope dilution high‐performance liquid chromatography‐triple quadruple mass spectrometry to analyze the oxidatively generated guanine nucleosides in renal tissue and urine from db/db mice of different ages. We further investigated the relationship between these oxidative stress markers, microalbumin excretion, and histological changes. We found that the levels of 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydroguanosine (8‐oxoGuo) and 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydro‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐oxodGuo) were increased in the urine and renal tissue of db/db mice and db/db mice with early symptoms of diabetic nephropathy suffered from more extensive oxidative damage than lean littermate control db/m mice. Importantly, in contrast to the findings in db/m mice, the 8‐oxoGuo levels in the urine and renal tissue of db/db mice were higher than those of 8‐oxodGuo at four weeks. These results indicate that RNA oxidation is more apparent than DNA oxidation in the early stage of diabetic nephropathy. RNA oxidation may provide new insight into the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy, and urinary 8‐oxoGuo may represent a novel, noninvasive, and easily detected biomarker of diabetic kidney diseases if further study could clarify its source and confirm these results in a large population study.
A Rare Case of Glioblastoma Multiforme with Osseous Metastases
Authors: Costa Rubens Barros , Costa Ricardo , Kaplan Jason , Cruz Marcelo Rocha , Shah Hiral , Matsangou Maria , Carneiro Benedito
Published: October 2017

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most common malignant primary central nervous system neoplasm in adults. It has a very aggressive natural history with a median overall survival estimated at 14.6 months despite multimodality treatment. Extracranial metastases are very rare with few case reports published to date. We report the case of a 65-year-old male who underwent maximal safe resection for a newly diagnosed brain mass after presentation with new neurologic symptoms. He then received standard postsurgical adjuvant treatment for glioblastoma. Subsequently, he underwent another resection for early progressive disease. Several months later, he was hospitalized for new-onset musculoskeletal complaints. Additional investigation revealed new metastatic osseous lesions which were initially felt to be a new malignancy. The patient opted for supportive care and died 12 days later. Despite choosing no treatment, he elected to undergo a bone biopsy to understand the new underlying process. Results were that of metastatic GBM and were reported after the patient expired. Physicians caring for patients with GBM and new nonneurologic symptoms may contemplate body imaging.
Location Model for Distribution Centers for Fulfilling Electronic Orders of Fresh Foods under Uncertain Demand
Authors: Zhang Hao , Xiong Ying , He Mingke , Qu Chongchong
Published: October 2017

The problem of locating distribution centers for delivering fresh food as a part of electronic commerce is a strategic decision problem for enterprises. This paper establishes a model for locating distribution centers that considers the uncertainty of customer demands for fresh goods in terms of time-sensitiveness and freshness. Based on the methodology of robust optimization in dealing with uncertain problems, this paper optimizes the location model in discrete demand probabilistic scenarios. In this paper, an improved fruit fly optimization algorithm is proposed to solve the distribution center location problem. An example is given to show that the proposed model and algorithm are robust and can effectively handle the complications caused by uncertain demand. The model proposed in this paper proves valuable both theoretically and practically in the selection of locations of distribution centers.
Representation for Action Recognition Using Trajectory-Based Low-Level Local Feature and Mid-Level Motion Feature
Authors: Li Xiaoqiang , Wang Dan , Zhang Yin
Published: October 2017

The dense trajectories and low-level local features are widely used in action recognition recently. However, most of these methods ignore the motion part of action which is the key factor to distinguish the different human action. This paper proposes a new two-layer model of representation for action recognition by describing the video with low-level features and mid-level motion part model. Firstly, we encode the compensated flow (w-flow) trajectory-based local features with Fisher Vector (FV) to retain the low-level characteristic of motion. Then, the motion parts are extracted by clustering the similar trajectories with spatiotemporal distance between trajectories. Finally the representation for action video is the concatenation of low-level descriptors encoding vector and motion part encoding vector. It is used as input to the LibSVM for action recognition. The experiment results demonstrate the improvements on J-HMDB and YouTube datasets, which obtain 67.4% and 87.6%, respectively.
Multimodal Imaging Analysis in a Case with Congenital Fovea-Involving Retinal Macrovessel and Excellent Visual Acuity
Authors: Shah Vishal , Reddy M. Ashwin , Papastefanou Vasilios P.
Published: October 2017

Purpose. Congenital retinal macrovessels (CRM) represent rare aberrant vasculature of the retinal vessels that can supply or drain the macula. In this report, the optical coherence tomography angiography features of a congenital retinal macrovessel are discussed. Methods. The history and examination findings are presented alongside swept-source OCT angiography with corresponding B scan and en face OCT imaging. Patients. The case is a 12-year-old female patient with excellent best-corrected visual acuity in both eyes. Results. Swept-source OCT angiography demonstrated considerable loss of the foveal avascular zone at the levels of the superficial and deep capillary plexus. Discussion. In this case there was no detrimental effect on vision despite anatomical loss of the foveal avascular zone.
Deletion Involving the 7q31-32 Band at the CADPS2 Gene Locus in a Patient with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Recurrent Psychotic Syndrome Triggered by Stress
Authors: Grabowski Paulo André Pera , Bello Alexandre Ferreira , Rodrigues Diogo Lima , Forbeci Murilo José , Motter Vinicius , Raskin Salmo
Published: October 2017

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by impairments in social functioning, language, communication, and behavior. Recent genome-wide association studies show some microdeletions on the 7q31-32 region, including the CADPS2 locus in autistic patients. This paper reports the case of a patient with ASD and recurrent psychotic syndrome, in which a deletion on the 7q31-32 band at the CADPS2 gene locus was evidenced, as well as a brief review of the literature on the CADPS2 gene and its association with ASD.
The Effect of Dongeui Qigong for Prehypertension and Mild Essential Hypertension
Authors: Park Ji-Eun , Kim Jung-Eun , Jung Soyoung , Kim Aeran , Park Hyoju , Hong Sanghoon
Published: October 2017

Although several previous studies have reported the effect of qigong on lowering blood pressure, rigorous trials are lacking. Studies evaluating the effect of qigong on prehypertension are also scarce. This study aimed to assess the effect of qigong on prehypertension and mild hypertension. Participants with prehypertension or mild hypertension were randomized to the Dongeui qigong group or a nontreated control group. In the qigong group, Dongeui qigong was administered 5 times/week for 12 weeks. The control group did not receive any intervention for blood pressure control. Fifty‐two participants were included in this study. Even though diastolic blood pressure was significantly reduced in the qigong group after 8 weeks (p = 0.04) compared to baseline, the difference in change in blood pressure between the qigong and control groups was not significant. There were no significant differences in quality of life between the qigong and control groups. Dongeui qigong is not significantly effective in pre/mild hypertension compared with controls. This result could be due to a lack of effect of qigong or caused by other factors, such as the type of qigong, target symptoms, inappropriate sample size, and compliance of participants. Trial Registration. This trial is registered with KCT0001397 (Clinical Research Information Service).
Simulation of the Spatial Distribution of Hydraulic Conductivity in Porous Media through Different Methods
Authors: Xu Zengguang , Wang Xue , Chai Junrui , Qin Yuan , Li Yanlong
Published: October 2017

Seepage problems exist in water conservancy projects, groundwater research, and geological research, and hydraulic conductivity is an important factor that affects the seepage field. This study investigates the heterogeneity of hydraulic conductivity. Kriging methods are used to simulate the spatial distribution of hydraulic conductivity, and the application of resistivity and grain size is used to obtain hydraulic conductivity. The results agree with the experimental pumping test results, which prove that the distribution of hydraulic conductivity can be obtained economically and efficiently and in a complex and wide area.
A Multicriteria Decision Model for Supplier Selection in a Food Industry Based on FITradeoff Method
Authors: Frej Eduarda Asfora , Roselli Lucia Reis Peixoto , Araújo de Almeida Jônatas , de Almeida Adiel Teixeira
Published: October 2017

This article puts forward a decision model for solving a supplier selection problem in a food industry by considering multiple objectives that influence the decision‐making process. In times of increasing competitiveness, companies strive hard to improve their profitability, and selection of supply sources may help if an appropriate decision is made through a well‐structured decision‐making process. Preference modeling is conducted in a flexible and interactive elicitation manner with the decision‐maker (DM), aided by FITradeoff method. Partial information is gathered about the DM’s preferences in such a way that less effort is spent on finding a final solution for the problem.
Research on Fatigue Damage of Compressor Blade Steel KMN-I Using Nonlinear Ultrasonic Testing
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Wang Weiqiang , Li Jianfeng
Published: October 2017

The fatigue damage of compressor blade steel KMN-I was investigated using nonlinear ultrasonic testing and the relation curve between the material nonlinearity parameter β and the fatigue life was obtained. The results showed that the nonlinearity parameter increased first and then decreased with the increase of the fatigue cycles. The microstructures were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that some small defects like holes and pits appeared in the material matrix with the increase of the fatigue cycles, and the nonlinearity parameter increased correspondingly. The nonlinearity parameter reached the peak value when the microcracks initiated, and the nonlinearity parameter began to decrease when the microcracks further propagated to macrocracks. Therefore, it is proved that the nonlinearity parameter can be used to characterize the initiation of microcracks at the early stage of fatigue, and a method of evaluating the fatigue life of materials by nonlinear ultrasonic testing is proposed.
Age-Adjusted D-Dimer in the Prediction of Pulmonary Embolism: Does a Normal Age-Adjusted D-Dimer Rule Out PE?
Authors: Ortiz Jacob , Saeed Rabia , Little Christopher , Schaefer Saul
Published: October 2017

Risk assessment for pulmonary embolism (PE) currently relies on physician judgment, clinical decision rules (CDR), and D-dimer testing. There is still controversy regarding the role of D-dimer testing in low or intermediate risk patients. The objective of the study was to define the role of clinical decision rules and D-dimer testing in patients suspected of having a PE. Records of 894 patients referred for computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) at a University medical center were analyzed. The clinical decision rules overall had an ROC of approximately 0.70, while signs of DVT had the highest ROC (0.80). A low probability CDR coupled with a negative age-adjusted D-dimer largely excluded PE. The negative predictive value (NPV) of an intermediate CDR was 86–89%, while the addition of a negative D-dimer resulted in NPVs of 94%. Thus, in patients suspected of having a PE, a low or intermediate CDR does not exclude PE; however, in patients with an intermediate CDR, a normal age-adjusted D-dimer increases the NPV.
Views of First-Time Expectant Mothers on Breastfeeding: A Study in Three Health Facilities in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Intiful Freda , Osei Claudia , Steele-Dadzie Rebecca , Nyarko Ruth , Asante Matilda
Published: October 2017

The objective of this study was to evaluate the views of first-time expectant mothers on breastfeeding. A qualitative study approach using focus group discussions was used to solicit the views of 25 expectant first-time mothers. The results indicated the intention to breastfeed, though some were willing to opt for formula feeding when the need arises. Knowledge on breastfeeding issues was minimal among this group. Common sources of information on breastfeeding issues were obtained from home (relatives), hospital, and television. The need to support and provide adequate education on breastfeeding issues is critical among this category of women.