bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organic Base-Catalyzed C–S Bond Construction from CO2: A New Route for the Synthesis of Benzothiazolones
Authors: Gao Xiang , Deng Yuehua , Lu Changyu , Zhang Lei , Wang Xintao , Yu Bo
Published: July 2018

The synthesis of organosulfur compounds via the construction of C−S bonds using CO2 as a C1 resource is very interesting. Herein, a novel method of synthesizing benzothiazolones via the cyclocarbonylation of 2-aminothiophenols with CO2 was developed. A series of organic bases was investigated for the catalysis of cyclocarbonylation, and 1,5-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]non-5-ene (DBN) displayed the best catalytic activity. Then, various reaction parameters such as CO2 pressure, temperature, amount of catalyst, and reaction time for the catalytic performance were studied. Finally, a series of benzothiazolones was synthesized under the optimal reaction conditions, and a possible catalytic mechanism was also proposed.
The Effect of Off-Spec Canola Biodiesel Blending on Fuel Properties for Cold Weather Applications
Authors: Hassan Ubaid , Al-Zubaidi Isam , Ibrahim Hussameldin
Published: July 2018

Biodiesel is a renewable and reduced-emission alternative fuel produced mainly from the alcoholysis of vegetable oils and/or animal fats. It is mainly used in blends with diesel fuel to reduce emissions, enhance lubrication and lower sulfur content. Being able to accurately determine the physicochemical properties of blended fuel is important for optimal injection, combustion, and lubricating performance in diesel engines. Also, fuel properties vary as the ratio of biodiesel-diesel changes, affecting the final fuel quality. In this study, a wide range and narrow intervals of (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, 20, 25, 35, 50, 75 and 100% by volume) off-quality canola-based biodiesel blends were prepared at ambient conditions and used to study the blended fuel properties (density, kinematic viscosity, flash point, cloud point and pour point). This is particularly important for examining the effect of a biodiesel content of more than 20%—the industry maximum blend content—on cold flow properties, fuel stability, energy value, and emissions. It was found that the kinematic viscosity and density increased linearly as the concentration of the biodiesel in the blend increases. The pour point and cloud point temperature showed a small increase up to 35% blending ratio and a rapid increase in temperature for biodiesel concentrations higher than 35%. Also, the flash point remained almost constant at an average value of 73 °C for blends less than 20%, above which the values for the flash point increased exponentially with biodiesel concentration. Furthermore, predictive correlations were developed for all tested fuel properties from regressing corresponding experimental data. All models exhibited excellent agreement with experimental data with an average absolute deviation of less than 5%.
Changes in Couple Relationship Dynamics among Low-Income Parents in a Relationship Education Program Are Associated with Decreases in Their Children’s Mental Health Symptoms
Authors: Sterrett-Hong Emma , Antle Becky , Nalley Brianna , Adams Monica
Published: July 2018

Witnessing intimate partner violence (IPV) among parents negatively impacts millions of children in the United States each year. Low-income families are disproportionately affected by IPV compared to middle- and high-income individuals, and are beginning to be the focus of IPV secondary prevention interventions, including relationship education programs. Despite these developments, few studies have examined changes in psychosocial functioning among children of parents participating in relationship education programs. The current study examined the extent to which changes in specific couple dynamics among individuals from low-income backgrounds participating in a couple relationship education program, Within My Reach, were associated with changes in child mental health symptoms. A second purpose of this paper is to examine whether changes in parent–child relationship quality mediates the association between changes in couple dynamics and changes in child mental health difficulties. Participants (n = 347) were parents who participated in Within My Reach as part of programming offered at a large community agency. Decreases in negative couple conflict behaviors, including conflict engagement, withdrawal and compliance, over the course of the program were linked to decreases in child mental health difficulties. In addition, increases in parent–child relationship quality partially mediated the associations between decreases in compliance, as well as increase in overall couple relationship quality, and decreases in child symptoms. Community-based couple relationship education programs for low-income families can potentially have multiple positive impacts throughout the family system, including for children.
Survey on Nursing Home Caregivers’ Basic Knowledge of Oral Health Management: Dental Terminology
Authors: Yanagisawa Shizuko , Yoshioka Masami , Shirayama Yasuhiko
Published: July 2018

With the increasing numbers of the elderly requiring care in Japan, the management of their oral health care will require cooperation between medical and dental professionals, and we need to transfer dental knowledge from dental professionals to caregivers. With the help of a questionnaire, we examined 181 caregivers’ depth of understanding regarding 20 typical dental terms with a view to improving the educational instruction provided to them. It was found that except for “clasp”, popular dental terms have largely been accepted. The differences in their degrees of understanding could be owing to the lack of systematic education for caregivers.
Influence of Titanium on Microstructure, Phase Formation and Wear Behaviour of AlCoCrFeNiTix High-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Löbel Martin , Lindner Thomas , Mehner Thomas , Lampke Thomas
Published: July 2018

The novel alloying concept of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) has been the focus of many recent investigations revealing an interesting combination of properties. Alloying with aluminium and titanium showed strong influence on microstructure and phase composition. However, detailed investigations on the influence of titanium are lacking. In this study, the influence of titanium in the alloy system AlCoCrFeNiTix was studied in a wide range (molar ratios x = 0.0; 0.2; 0.5; 0.8; 1.0; 1.5). Detailed studies investigating the microstructure, chemical composition, phase composition, solidification behaviour, and wear behaviour were carried out. Alloying with titanium showed strong influence on the resulting microstructure and lead to an increase of microstructural heterogeneity. Phase analyses revealed the formation of one body-centred cubic (bcc) phase for the alloy without titanium, whereas alloying with titanium caused the formation of two different bcc phases as main phases. Additional phases were detected for alloys with increased titanium content. For x ≥ 0.5, a minor phase with face-centred cubic (fcc) structure was formed. Further addition of titanium led to the formation of complex phases. Investigation of wear behaviour revealed a superior wear resistance of the alloy AlCoCrFeNiTi0.5 as compared to a bearing steel sample.
Experimental Assessment of the Energy Performance of a Double-Skin Semi-Transparent PV Window in the Hot-Summer and Cold-Winter Zone of China
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhang Wei , Xie Lingzhi , Wu Yupeng , Tian Hao , Zheng Lin
Published: July 2018

The energy performance of the semi-transparent PV (STPV) window was carried out in a hot-summer and cold-winter zone of China. Semi-transparent PV (STPV) windows generate electric, reduce the heating load and aim to utilize daylighting efficiently. In order to analyze the energy performance of semi-transparent windows, a comparison test rig was set up which includes two test rooms of the same size. One room was installed with the STPV window and the other with a conventional window. The lighting, thermal, and electrical performance of STPV window was tested and compared with those of conventional window in the same ambient environment. It was observed that the maximum power generation of the STPV (a-SiGe) window was 33.3 W/m2 on a typical sunny day. Compared with the conventional windows, the average solar heat gain (SHGC) and Uvalue of STPV windows were 0.15 and 1.6, respectively, which is better than those of conventional window. On a sunny day, the Useful Daylighting Illuminance (UDI) of the test room was up to 52.2% better than the UDI of the conventional room. The results could support the application of photovoltaic technology in buildings in Southwest China.
Modelling Uncertainty in t-RANS Simulations of Thermally Stratified Forest Canopy Flows for Wind Energy Studies
Authors: Desmond Cian J. , Watson Simon , Montavon Christiane , Murphy Jimmy
Published: July 2018

The flow over densely forested terrain under neutral and non-neutral conditions is considered using commercially available computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. Results are validated against data from a site in Northeastern France. It is shown that the effects of both neutral and stable atmospheric stratifications can be modelled numerically using state of the art methodologies whilst unstable stratifications will require further consideration. The sensitivity of the numerical model to parameters such as canopy height and canopy density is assessed and it is shown that atmospheric stability is the prevailing source of modelling uncertainty for the study.
Large-Signal Stabilization of Three-Phase VSR with Constant Power Load
Authors: Liu Bo , Ben Hongqi , Zhang Xiaobing
Published: July 2018

As an important interface converter, the three-phase voltage-source rectifier (VSR) connects the grid to DC-input converters. The constant power load (CPL) characteristic of the converter-load often causes large-signal stability problems. In order to solve this problem, the stability boundary of the VSR with CPL is analyzed based on the mixed potential theory, and the stability condition under large-signal disturbance is obtained; thus, the jump range of the load power can be estimated. To improve the stability of the system, a voltage loop control scheme based on ADRC is proposed. A theoretical analysis based on the mixed potential theory shows the proposed scheme expands the power jump range of the VSR with CPL effectively, and improves its disturbance rejection performance. Finally, experimental results prove the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Design Methodology, Modeling, and Comparative Study of Wireless Power Transfer Systems for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Yang Yang , El Baghdadi Mohamed , Lan Yuanfeng , Benomar Yassine , Van Mierlo Joeri , Hegazy Omar
Published: July 2018

Recently, wireless power transfer (WPT) systems have been used as battery chargers for electric vehicles. In a WPT system, the design approach and control strategy have a significant impact on the performance of the wireless power transfer systems in electric vehicle powertrains in terms of efficiency, charging power, charging modes, charging time, etc. A characteristic of different topologies appears depending on whether the compensation capacitor is connected in series or parallel with coils. Therefore, it is necessary to select a suitable compensation topology depending on different applications. Thus, this paper proposes a new design methodology and control system for bidirectional 3.7 kW and 7.7 kW WPTs in light-duty electric vehicles (EVs) operating at both 40 kHz and 85 kHz resonance frequencies. In this paper, the series-series (SS) WPT compensation topology is optimally designed and controlled for grid-to-vehicle (G2V) mode using MATLAB/Simulink. A simulation study is performed for a selected WPT design for G2V mode to ensure its functionality and performance at different power levels. Moreover, the magnetic design of the coils and its parameters are verified by using COMSOL. Finally, experimental results are validated for the WPT system.
Numerical Analysis of Heat and Gas Transfer Characteristics during Heat Injection Processes Based on a Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical Model
Authors: Xue Yi , Dang Faning , Cao Zhengzheng , Du Feng , Liu Fei , Ren Jie , Gao Feng
Published: July 2018

Heat injection is an important artificial technique, which can significantly enhance the extraction efficiency of coal seam gas (CSG) and reduce the outburst risk caused by CSG. Although heat injection has been comprehensively investigated, the effect of temperature on the coal–gas interactions in CSG extraction is still not clear. In this study, a thermo-hydro-mechanical model was developed considering the expansion of coal mass and the change of adsorption capacity induced by heat injection. Subsequently, the reliability of the model was verified through a comparison with other theoretical models and field data. Finally, a numerical simulation and parameter analysis of the heat injection process were performed and compared with the traditional gas extraction method. The simulation results show that heat injection can significantly increase the gas production rate and cumulative gas production through the gas desorption and the permeability increase. The gas content in the coal seam dramatically decreases in the vicinity of the production and heat injection wells under the condition of heat injection, which greatly accelerates the gas drainage. The coal deformation caused by thermal-induced gas desorption has a more dominant effect on the porosity than other factors, i.e., pore pressure, thermal strain and compressive strain.
Characteristics of Soot and Radiation of Post Combustion Simulated Gas from a Gas Generator
Authors: Kim Hakduck , Song Juhun
Published: July 2018

It is necessary to install a specific burner system to burn out fuel-rich post combustion gas produced from a gas generator in a rocket engine when the performance of gas generator is separately evaluated in a test facility. Because of the fuel-rich reburning conditions, the burner still emits a significant amount of soot and produces thermal radiation. In this study, a laboratory-scale coflow diffusion burner was developed to examine the effects of fuel composition in combustion products on the soot emission and radiation behavior. The post combustion gas was simulated by adding carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide to two different base fuels: kerosene vapor and ethylene. The radiation flux sensor and laser extinction apparatus were used to measure the radiation intensity and soot emission, respectively, within a flame. The flame length and temperature were measured to examine the combustion behavior of each sooting flame having a strong radiation. Finally, the relationship between soot emission and radiation intensity was proposed based on all the experimental data.
Electrically Driven Supersonic Combustion
Authors: Leonov Sergey B.
Published: July 2018

This manuscript reviews published works related to plasma assistance in supersonic combustion; focusing on mixing enhancement, ignition and flameholding. A special attention is paid for studies, which the author participated in person. The Introduction discusses general trends in plasma-assisted combustion and, specifically, work involving supersonic conditions. In Section 2, the emphasis is placed on different approaches to plasma application for fuel ignition and flame stabilization. Several schemes of plasma-based actuators for supersonic combustion have been tested for flameholding purposes at flow conditions where self-ignition of the fuel/air mixture is not realizable due to low air temperatures. Comparing schemes indicates an obvious benefit of plasma generation in-situ, in the mixing layer of air and fuel. In Section 3, the problem of mixing enhancement using a plasma-based technique is considered. The mechanisms of interaction are discussed from the viewpoint of triggering gasdynamic instabilities promoting the kinematic stretching of the fuel-air interface. Section 4 is related to the description of transitional processes and combustion instabilities observed in plasma-assisted high-speed combustion. The dynamics of ignition and flame extinction are explored. It is shown that the characteristic time for reignition can be as short as 10 ms. Two types of flame instability were described which are related to the evolution of a separation zone and thermoacoustic oscillations, with characteristic times 10 ms and 1 ms correspondingly.
A Review on Biopolymer-Based Fibers via Electrospinning and Solution Blowing and Their Applications
Authors: Kakoria Ashish , Sinha-Ray Sumit
Published: July 2018

Electrospinning, for the last few decades, has been extensively acknowledged for its ability to manufacture a macro/nanofibrous architecture from biopolymers, which is otherwise difficult to obtain, in a cost effective and user-friendly technique. Such biopolymer nanofibers can be tailored to meet applications such as drug delivery, tissue engineering, filtration, fuel cell, and food packaging etc. Due to their structural uniqueness, chemical and mechanical stability, functionality, super-high surface area-to-volume ratio, and one-dimensional orientation, electrospun biopolymer nanofibers have been proven to be extremely beneficial. A parallel method in nonwoven methodologies called “Solution Blowing” has also become a potential candidate to fabricate a similar type of architecture from biopolymer fibers, and is gaining popularity among researchers, despite its recent advent in early 2000’s. This review chiefly focuses on the fabrication of biopolymer macro/nanofibers via electrospinning and solution blowing, and several applications of such fiber architectures. Biopolymers include plant- and animal-derived biopolymers, such as cellulose, lignin, chitin, and chitosan, as well as proteins and their derivatives. The fabrication of biopolymer fibers from these biopolymers alone or as blends, predominantly with biodegradable polymers like Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), Polyethylene Oxide (PEO), Polyethylene glycol (PEG), poly (lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) etc., or non-biodegradable polymers like polyamide, Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) etc., will be discussed in detail, along with the applications of several composites of such sort.
Retail Stores Policies for Marketing of Lobsters in Sardinia (Italy) as Influenced by Different Practices Related to Animal Welfare and Product Quality
Authors: Esposito Giuseppe , Nucera Daniele , Meloni Domenico
Published: July 2018

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the marketing policies of lobsters as influenced by different practices related to product quality in seven supermarkets located in Italy. Retailers were divided in two categories: large scale and medium scale. The two groups were compared to screen for differences and to assess differences in score distribution attributed to different practices related to product quality. Our results showed no statistical differences (p > 0.05) between the two categories. Lobsters were often marketed alive on ice and/or stocked for long periods in supermarket aquariums, highlighting the need to improve the specific European regulations on health, welfare, and quality at the market stage. Retail shop managers should be encouraged to develop better practices and policies in terms of marketing of lobsters. This will help in keeping the animals in good health and improve product quality at the marketing stages.
Hydrogels for Cell Delivery
Authors: Jabbari Esmaiel
Published: July 2018

n/a
PHOTOSED—PHOTOgrammetric Sediment Erosion Detection
Authors: Noack Markus , Schmid Gerhard , Beckers Felix , Haun Stefan , Wieprecht Silke
Published: July 2018

This work presents a novel high-resolution photogrammetric measuring technique (PHOTOSED) to study in detail the erosion behavior of cohesive sediments, or cohesive/non-cohesive sediment mixtures. PHOTOSED uses a semiconductor laser to project a pseudo-random pattern of light points on a sediment surface and applies the Dense Optical Flow (DOF) algorithm to measure the erosion volume based on displacements of the projected light points during the sediment erosion process. Based on intensive calibration and verification experiments, the accuracy and applicability of the method has been validated for a wide range of erosion volumes, encompassing several orders of magnitude, which is required for investigations of natural sediment mixtures. The high spatial resolution of PHOTOSED is especially designed to detect the substantial variability of erosion rates during exemplary erosion experiments, which allows for further in-depth investigations of the erosion process of cohesive sediments and cohesive/non-cohesive sediment mixtures.
Assessing Purchase Patterns of Price Conscious Consumers
Authors: Rihn Alicia , Khachatryan Hayk , Wei Xuan
Published: July 2018

Price greatly influences consumers’ purchasing decisions. Individuals whose decisions are primarily driven by price are said to be ‘price conscious’. To date, studies have focused on defining price consciousness and identifying factors that contribute to price-conscious behavior. However, research using visual attention to assess how price conscious consumers use in-store stimuli is limited. Here, consumers’ purchasing decisions are assessed using a rating-based conjoint analysis paired with eye tracking technology when shopping for ornamental plants. An ordered logit model is employed to understand price conscious consumers’ purchase patterns and choice outcomes. Overall, price conscious consumers are less attentive to price information. Being price conscious tends to reduce purchase likelihood, ceteris paribus. Increasing visual attention to price decreases consumers’ purchase likelihood, which is amplified for price conscious consumers. Price conscious consumers tend to be quicker decision makers than non-price conscious consumers. Results are beneficial to retailers interested in targeting or primarily catering to price conscious consumers.
The Use of Antidepressive Agents and Bone Mineral Density in Women: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Schweiger Julietta Ursula , Schweiger Ulrich , Hüppe Michael , Kahl Kai G. , Greggersen Wiebke , Jauch-Chara Kamila , Fassbinder Eva
Published: July 2018

Antidepressive agents are one of the fastest-growing classes of prescribed drugs. However, the effects of antidepressive agents on bone density are controversial. The aim of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the state of research on the relationship between the use of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and bone mineral density (BMD) in women. The database searched was Pubmed. The meta-analysis included human studies in women fulfilling the following criteria: (i) an assessment of bone mineral density in the lumbar spine, the femoral neck or the total hip; (ii) a comparison of the BMD of depressed individuals using antidepressive agents (SSRIs or TCAs), and a control group that did not use antidepressive agents; (iii) measurement of BMD using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA); and (iv) calculations of the mean BMD and standard deviation or standard error. Four studies were identified, which, in total, included 934 women using antidepressive agents and 5767 non-using individuals. The results showed that no significant negative composite weighted mean effect sizes were identified for the comparisons between SSRI users and non-users. Similarly, no significant negative composite weighted mean effect sizes were identified for the comparisons between TCA users and non-users, indicating similar BMD in SSRI or TCA users and non-users. The meta-analysis shows that the association between antidepressant medication and bone mineral density has not been extensively researched. Only four studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The global result of the literature review and meta-analysis was that the use of antidepressive agents was not associated with lower or higher BMD. This result applies to both SSRIs and TCAs and to all measurement locations (lumbar spine, femoral neck and total hip).
Exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke in Relation to Behavioral, Emotional, Social and Health Indicators of Slovak School Children
Authors: Sevcikova Ludmila , Babjakova Jana , Jurkovicova Jana , Samohyl Martin , Stefanikova Zuzana , Machacova Erika , Vondrova Diana , Janekova Etela , Hirosova Katarina , Filova Alexandra , Weitzman Michael , Argalasova Lubica
Published: July 2018

Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure has been shown in general as a major environmental risk factor and deserves attention in vulnerable population groups. The aim of the project is to analyze the relationships among the ETS and behavior and health in 6−15-year-old children in Slovakia. The status of physical and mental health of children in relation to exposure to tobacco smoke was examined in a representative group of 1478 school children. The methods used, included anonymous questionnaires filled in by parents, Columbia Impairment Scale (CIS), Behavior Problem Index (BPI) and anthropometry. The prevalence of ETS exposure is the highest in the capital (27%) and southern cities. A significant association was found between ETS and age, socio-economic status, incompleteness of the family, level of mother’s education and a higher prevalence of respiratory diseases (26.7%). The relationships of ETS with emotional (CIS scores ≥ 16) and behavioral functions (BPI score ≥ 14) were significant in children exposed to mother’s or father’s smoking at home. In the multivariate analysis these associations were not significant; the factors such as income and completeness of the family were dominant. The results showed mostly the predominant impact of social factors on the physical and mental health status of Slovak school children.
Joint Risk of Rainfall and Storm Surges during Typhoons in a Coastal City of Haidian Island, China
Authors: Xu Hongshi , Xu Kui , Bin Lingling , Lian Jijian , Ma Chao
Published: July 2018

Public health risks from urban floods are a global concern. A typhoon is a devastating natural hazard that is often accompanied by heavy rainfall and high storm surges and causes serious floods in coastal cities. Affected by the same meteorological systems, typhoons, rainfall, and storm surges are three variables with significant correlations. In the study, the joint risk of rainfall and storm surges during typhoons was investigated based on principal component analysis, copula-based probability analysis, urban flood inundation model, and flood risk model methods. First, a typhoon was characterized by principal component analysis, integrating the maximum sustained wind (MSW), center pressure, and distance between the typhoon center and the study area. Following this, the Gumbel copula was selected as the best-fit copula function for the joint probability distribution of typhoons, rainfall, and storm surges. Finally, the impact of typhoons on the joint risk of rainfall and storm surges was investigated. The results indicate the following: (1) Typhoons can be well quantified by the principal component analysis method. (2) Ignoring the dependence between these flood drivers can inappropriately underestimate the flood risk in coastal regions. (3) The co-occurrence probability of rainfall and storm surges increases by at least 200% during typhoons. Therefore, coastal urban flood management should pay more attention to the joint impact of rainfall and storm surges on flood risk when a typhoon has occurred. (4) The expected annual damage is 0.82 million dollars when there is no typhoon, and it rises to 3.27 million dollars when typhoons have occurred. This indicates that typhoons greatly increase the flood risk in coastal zones. The obtained results may provide a scientific basis for urban flood risk assessment and management in the study area.
In Vitro and In Vivo Experimental Studies of PM2.5 on Disease Progression
Authors: Cho Ching-Chang , Hsieh Wen-Yeh , Tsai Chin-Hung , Chen Cheng-Yi , Chang Hui-Fang , Lin Chih-Sheng
Published: July 2018

Air pollution is a very critical issue worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Particulate matter (PM) is a type of air pollution that comprises a heterogeneous mixture of different particle sizes and chemical compositions. There are various sources of fine PM (PM2.5), and the components may also have different effects on people. The pathogenesis of PM2.5 in several diseases remains to be clarified. There is a long history of epidemiological research on PM2.5 in several diseases. Numerous studies show that PM2.5 can induce a variety of chronic diseases, such as respiratory system damage, cardiovascular dysfunction, and diabetes mellitus. However, the epidemiological evidence associated with potential mechanisms in the progression of diseases need to be proved precisely through in vitro and in vivo investigations. Suggested mechanisms of PM2.5 that lead to adverse effects and chronic diseases include increasing oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and genotoxicity. The aim of this review is to provide a brief overview of in vitro and in vivo experimental studies of PM2.5 in the progression of various diseases from the last decade. The summarized research results could provide clear information about the mechanisms and progression of PM2.5-induced disease.
Influenza Vaccination in Type 2 Diabetes Patients: Coverage Status and Its Determinants in Southwestern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alnaheelah Ibraheem M. , Awadalla Nabil J. , Al-Musa Khalid M. , Alsabaani Abdullah A. , Mahfouz Ahmed A.
Published: July 2018

Despite the significant role of seasonal influenza vaccination in preventing and minimizing the serious complications of influenza infection in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients, unsatisfactory compliance still exists for vaccination. Study objectives were to explore the vaccination status and determinants in T2DM patients in southwestern Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study on a representative sample of T2DM patients in Abha city, southwestern Saudi Arabia, was conducted. Data for sociodemographic characteristics, clinical criteria, vaccination status, vaccination motivators and barriers and seasonal influenza knowledge were collected. Out of 353 T2DM patients included in the study, seasonal influenza vaccination coverage was 61% in year 2017. A significant factors associated with non-vaccination were; poor influenza and its vaccine knowledge (OR = 4.31, 95% CI: 2.73–6.80), illiteracy (OR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.11–3.37), and more than 10 years disease duration (OR = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.11–3.87). Presence of family history of DM and ischemic heart comorbidity minimized the possibility of non-vaccination (OR = 0.54 and 0.28 respectively). Healthcare givers’ advice was the most reported vaccination motivator (84.7%) while; fear of vaccine side effects was the most stated barrier (73%). In conclusion, influenza vaccination rate among T2DM in the present study is less than the recommended level. Continuous primary health care center-based educational programs should be implemented to aware and encourage influenza vaccination among T2DM patients.
Predictors of Hypertension in Mauritians with Normotension and Prehypertension at Baseline: A Cohort Study
Authors: Kowlessur Sudhirsen , Hu Zhibin , Heecharan Jaysing , Wang Jianming , Dai Juncheng , Tuomilehto Jaakko O. , Söderberg Stefan , Zimmet Paul , Barengo Noël C.
Published: July 2018

Information on the predictors of future hypertension in Mauritians with prehypertension is scant. The aim of this study was to analyze the 5-year and 11-year risk of hypertension and its predictors in people with normotension and prehypertension at baseline in Mauritius in 1987. This was a retrospective cohort study of 883 men and 1194 women of Mauritian Indian and Mauritian Creole ethnicity, aged 25–74 years old, free of hypertension at baseline in 1987 with follow-up examinations in 1992 and 1998 using the same methodology. The main outcome was 5- and 11-year risk of hypertension. Odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. The 5-year risk of hypertension was 5.4-times higher in people with prehypertension compared with normotensive individuals at baseline. The corresponding odds for prehypertensive people at baseline regarding 11-year hypertension risk was 3.39 (95% CI 2.67–4.29) in the adjusted logistic regression models. Being of Creole ethnicity (OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.09–1.86) increased the 11-year odds of hypertension compared with the Indian population. It is of importance to screen for people with prehypertension and implement strategies to reduce their systolic blood pressure levels to the recommended levels of 120/80 mmHg. Special attention needs to be given to Mauritians of Creole ethnicity.
Dietary Leucine Supplement Ameliorates Hepatic Steatosis and Diabetic Nephropathy in db/db Mice
Authors: Chen Kuan-Hsing , Chen Yi-Ling , Tang Hsiang-Yu , Hung Cheng-Chieh , Yen Tzung-Hai , Cheng Mei-Ling , Shiao Ming-Shi , Chen Jan-Kan
Published: July 2018

Dietary leucine supplementation has been explored for the therapeutic intervention of obesity and obesity-induced metabolic dysfunctions. In this study, we aim to examine the effects of dietary leucine supplementation in db/db mice. Mice were treated with or without leucine (1.5% w/v) in drinking water for 12 weeks. The leucine supplement was found to reduce insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis in db/db mice. Using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)-based lipidomics, we found that the reduction of hepatic triglyceride synthesis was correlated with attenuated development of fatty liver. In addition, diabetic nephropathy (DN) was also ameliorated by leucine. Using liquid chromatography–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-TOF MS)-based urine metabolomics analysis, we found that the disturbance of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle was reversed by leucine. The beneficial effects of leucine were probably due to AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation in the liver and kidneys of db/db mice. Thus, dietary leucine supplementation may potentially be a nutritional intervention to attenuate hepatic steatosis and early DN in type II diabetes.
ABA Receptor Subfamily III Enhances Abscisic Acid Sensitivity and Improves the Drought Tolerance of Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Xiaoyi , Li Gaoming , Li Ying , Kong Xiangge , Zhang Liang , Wang Jianmei , Li Xufeng , Yang Yi
Published: July 2018

The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) regulates plant growth, the developmental process, and abiotic stresses. ABA signaling is induced in response to mediate plant acclimation to environmental challenges, including high salinity and drought. The ABA-binding receptors (RCAR/PYR1/PYL), composing of 14 members, are the core components of the ABA-signaling pathway. Here, we observed that the three subfamilies within the RCARs showed different expression patterns at the basal and exogenous ABA levels. Subsequently, we generated transgenic plants overexpressing subfamily III, RCAR11–RCAR14, respectively. The transgenic plants showed increased ABA sensitivity in seed germination and post-germination seedling establishment and root length. Further studies revealed that the overexpressing subfamily III transgenic plants enhanced drought resistance, increased water-use efficiency, and accelerated stress-responsive gene expression compared with the wild-type plants. These findings confirm that the subfamily III plays a key role in ABA-mediated developmental processes and, more importantly, is involved in drought tolerance in the ABA-dependent pathway.
Digital Comics Image Indexing Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Nguyen Nhu-Van , Rigaud Christophe , Burie Jean-Christophe
Published: July 2018

The digital comic book market is growing every year now, mixing digitized and digital-born comics. Digitized comics suffer from a limited automatic content understanding which restricts online content search and reading applications. This study shows how to combine state-of-the-art image analysis methods to encode and index images into an XML-like text file. Content description file can then be used to automatically split comic book images into sub-images corresponding to panels easily indexable with relevant information about their respective content. This allows advanced search in keywords said by specific comic characters, action and scene retrieval using natural language processing. We get down to panel, balloon, text, comic character and face detection using traditional approaches and breakthrough deep learning models, and also text recognition using LSTM model. Evaluations on a dataset composed of online library content are presented, and a new public dataset is also proposed.
A Novel Iterative Water Refraction Correction Algorithm for Use in Structure from Motion Photogrammetric Pipeline
Authors: Skarlatos Dimitrios , Agrafiotis Panagiotis
Published: July 2018

Photogrammetry using structure from motion (SfM) techniques has evolved into a powerful tool for a variety of applications. Nevertheless, limits are imposed when two-media photogrammetry is needed, in cases such as submerged archaeological site documentation. Water refraction poses a clear limit on photogrammetric applications, especially when traditional methods and standardized pipelines are followed. This work tries to estimate the error introduced to depth measurements when no refraction correction model is used and proposes an easy to implement methodology in a modern photogrammetric workflow dominated by SfM and multi-view stereo (MVS) techniques. To be easily implemented within current software and workflow, this refraction correction approach is applied at the photo level. Results over two test sites in Cyprus against reference data suggest that despite the assumptions and approximations made the proposed algorithm can reduce the effect of refraction to two times the ground pixel size, regardless of the depth.
Resonantly Forced Baroclinic Waves in the Oceans: Subharmonic Modes
Authors: Pinault Jean-Louis
Published: July 2018

The study of resonantly forced baroclinic waves in the tropical oceans at mid-latitudes is of paramount importance to advancing our knowledge in fields that investigate the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the decadal climate variability, or the resonant feature of glacial-interglacial cycles that are a result of orbital forcing. Indeed, these baroclinic waves, the natural period of which coincides with the forcing period, have a considerable impact on ocean circulation and in climate variability. Resonantly Forced Waves (RFWs) are characterized by antinodes at sea surface height anomalies and nodes where modulated geostrophic currents ensure the transfer of warm water from an antinode to another, reflecting a quasi-geostrophic motion. Several RFWs of different periods are coupled when they share the same node, which involves the geostrophic forces at the basin scale. These RFWs are subject to a subharmonic mode locking, which means that their average periods are a multiple of the natural period of the fundamental wave, that is, one year. This property of coupled oscillator systems is deduced from the Hamiltonian (the energy) of the Caldirola–Kanai (CK) oscillator. In this article, it is shown how the CK oscillator, which is usually used to develop a phenomenological single-particle approach, is transposable to RFWs. Subharmonic modes ensure the durability of the resonant dissipative system, with each oscillator transferring as much interaction energy to all the others that it receives periodically.
Performance Evaluation and Lubrication Mechanism of Water-Based Nanolubricants Containing Nano-TiO2 in Hot Steel Rolling
Authors: Wu Hui , Zhao Jingwei , Luo Liang , Huang Shuiquan , Wang Lianzhou , Zhang Suoquan , Jiao Sihai , Huang Han , Jiang Zhengyi
Published: July 2018

Hot rolling tests of a low-alloy steel were conducted at a rolling temperature of 850 °C under different lubrication conditions, including benchmarks (dry condition and water) and water-based nanolubricants containing different concentrations of nano-TiO2 from 1.0 to 8.0 wt%. The effects of nanolubricants on rolling force, surface roughness, thickness of oxide scale, and microstructure were systematically investigated through varying nano-TiO2 concentrations. The results show that the application of nanolubricants can decrease the rolling force, surface roughness and oxide scale thickness of rolled steels, and refine ferrite grains. In particular, the nanolubricant containing an optimal concentration (4.0 wt%) of nano-TiO2 demonstrates the best lubrication performance, owing to the synergistic effect of lubricating film, rolling, polishing, and mending generated by nano-TiO2.
Research on PCBN Tool Dry Cutting GCr15
Authors: Li Qinghua , Pan Chen , Jiao Yuxin , Hu Kaixing
Published: July 2018

This paper is based on the theoretical analysis designs of a dry cutting orthogonal test in order to study a phenomenon that the radial force is larger than the main cutting force when a PCBN (polycrystalline cubic boron nitride) tool hard turns GCr15. Finite element modelling and cutting tests show the cutting depth and the spindle speed having an impact on the main cutting force, the radial force, and the axial force. In this study, due to the shear function of the cutting process, the squeezing effect between the tool and the workpiece, and the metal softening effect of the workpiece material, the different cutting depth and the spindle speed bring about different cutting force changes, and also different spindle speeds have different effects on the three components of the total cutting force. The research result provides a basis for further study on dry turning of hardened bearing steel.
Analysis of the Incidence of Poxvirus on the Dynamics between Red and Grey Squirrels
Authors: Barbara Fadi , La Morgia Valentina , Parodi Valerio , Toscano Giuseppe , Venturino Ezio
Published: July 2018

A model for the interactions of the invasive grey squirrel species as asymptomatic carriers of the poxvirus with the native red squirrel is presented and analyzed. Equilibria of the dynamical system are assessed, and their sensitivity in terms of the ecosystem parameters is investigated through numerical simulations. The findings are in line with both field and theoretical research. The results indicate that mainly the reproduction rate of the alien population should be drastically reduced to repel the invasion, and to achieve disease eradication, actions must be performed to reduce the intraspecific transmission rate; also, the native species mortality plays a role: if grey squirrels are controlled, increasing it may help in the red squirrel preservation, while the invaders vanish; on the contrary, decreasing it in favorable situations, the coexistence of the two species may occur. Preservation or restoration of the native red squirrel requires removal of the grey squirrels or keeping them at low values. Wildlife managers should exert a constant effort to achieve a harsh reduction of the grey squirrel growth rate and to protect the remnant red squirrel population.
Investigation of radiofrequency ablation process in liver tissue by finite element modeling and experiment
Authors: Barauskas Rimantas , Gulbinas Antanas , Barauskas Giedrius
Published: July 2018

Background. The character of ablation processes with high-frequency electrical current is similar in most biological tissues; however, quantitative characteristics are very different. Consequently, mathematical models of the process have a lot of specific aspects. In this study, we developed mathematical model of radiofrequency ablation in liver tissues with experimental validation of model in ex vivo porcine liver. Methods. The finite element nonlinear computational model for the simulation of the radiofrequency ablation processes and taking into account coupled electrical and thermal phenomena has been developed. The radiofrequency electric current processes are dominated by the active electric conductivity. The heat generation in biological tissues is determined by the electric current density. Simultaneously, the conductivity of the tissue is nonlinearly dependent upon the temperature of the tissue. The model has been implemented in COMSOL Multiphysics computational environment. Tests on physical characteristics of the thermal effect in ex vivo liver tissue have been performed and results compared. Results. Two oval-shaped zones of total and relative tissue destruction were highlighted. The principal distribution of the thermal effect is congruous with the theoretical model; however, the discrepancy of temperatures in experimental and theoretical models increases distally from active perfusion electrode. Conclusions. Distribution of the thermal effect is congruous in the theoretical and experimental model; however, discrepancies of temperatures imply certain inadequacies of the mathematical models. Differences of computed and actual temperatures should be regarded predicting tissue ablation in clinical setting.
Transfusion of autologous blood
Authors: Veikutienė Audronė , Širvinskas Edmundas , Adukauskienė Dalia
Published: July 2018

Recently the use of allogeneic (donor) blood transfusion is widely accepted in the clinical practice. Despite of good quality and safety of preparation of allogeneic blood, there are some risks related with transfusion: hemolytic, febrile, and allergic reactions, transfusion related acute lung injury, negative immunomodulatory effect, transmission of infections diseases, dissemination and recurrence of cancer. This is why the indications for donor blood transfusion are restricted, so new safer methods are discovered to avoid or to decrease the heed for allogeneic blood transfusion. Nowadays, there is an increased interest in autologous blood transfusion as the most acceptable alternative to allogeneic blood transfusion. Autologous transfusion is the collection and reinfusion of the patient’s own blood (donor and recipient is the same person). Several types of autologous transfusion can be used: preoperative autologous blood donation, acute normovolemic hemodilution, intraoperative blood salvage, postoperative blood salvage. Neverless, autologous transfusion does not protect from all risks, it still remains the safest type of blood transfusion and is important in the strategy of blood conservation.
Are religious delusions related to religiosity in schizophrenia?
Authors: Rudalevičienė Palmira , Stompe Thomas , Narbekovas Andrius , Raškauskienė Nijolė , Bunevičius Robertas
Published: July 2018

This article attempts to explore the phenomenology of religious delusions in patients suffering from schizophrenia and to determine parallels between personal religiosity and content of religious delusions. We have studied the content of delusions in patients with schizophrenia looking for religious themes using Fragebogen fur psychotische Symptome (FPS) – a semistructured questionnaire developed by the Cultural Psychiatry International research group in Vienna. A total of 295 patients suffering from schizophrenia participated in this study at Vilnius Mental Health Center in Lithuania, among whom 63.3% reported religious delusions. The most frequent content of religious delusion in women was their belief that they were saints and in men – that they imagined themselves as God. Univariate multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that four factors such asmarital status, birthplace, education, and subjective importance of religion were significantly related to the presence of religious delusions. However, multivariate analyses revealed that marital status (divorced/separated vs. marriedOR (odds ratio)=2.0; 95% CI, 1.1 to 3.5) and education (postsecondary education vs. no postsecondary education OR=2.3; 95% CI, 1.4 to 3.9), but not personal religiosity, were independent predictors of the religious delusions. We conclude that the religious content of delusions is not influenced by personal religiosity; it is rather related to marital status and education of schizophrenic patients.