bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The global pool of simulation exercise materials in health emergency preparedness and response: a scoping review with a health system perspective
Authors: McDarby Geraldine , Reynolds Lindy , Zibwowa Zandile , Syed Shams , Kelley Ed , Saikat Sohel
Published: July 2019

Simulation Exercises (SimEx) are an established tool in defence and allied security sectors, applied extensively in health security initiatives under national or international legislative requirements, particularly the International Health Regulations (2005). There is, however, a paucity of information on SimEx application to test the functionality of health systems alongside emergency preparedness, response and recovery. Given the important implications health services resilience has for the protection and improvement of human life, this scoping review was undertaken to determine how the publicly available body of existing global SimEx materials considers health systems, together with health security functions in the event of disruptive emergencies.

The global review identified 668 articles from literature and 73 products from institutional sources. Relevant screening identified 51 materials suitable to examine from a health system lens using the six health system building blocks as per the WHO Health System Framework. Eight materials were identified for further examination of their ability to test health system functionality from a resilience perspective.

SimEx are an effective approach used extensively within health security and emergency response sectors but is not yet adequately used to test health system resilience. Currently available SimEx materials lack an integrated health system perspective and have a limited focus on the quality of services delivered within the context of response to a public health emergency. The materials do not focus on the ability of systems to effectively maintain core services during response.

Without adjustment of the scope and focus, currently available SimEx materials do not have the capacity to test health systems to support the development of resilient health systems. Dedicated SimEx materials are urgently needed to fill this gap and harness their potential as an operational tool to contribute to improvements in health systems. They can act as effective global goods to allow testing of different functional aspects of health systems and service delivery alongside emergency preparedness and response.

The work was conducted within the scope of the Tackling Deadly Diseases in Africa Programme, funded by the UK Department for International Development, which seeks to strengthen collaboration between the health system and health security clusters to promote health security and build resilient health systems.
Exploring the characteristics, acuity and management of adult ED patients at night-time
Authors: Simpson Rebecca , Croft Susan , O’Keeffe Colin , Jacques Richard , Stone Tony , Ahmed Nisar , Mason Suzanne M
Published: July 2019

Objectives

ED care is required for acutely unwell and injured patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The aim of this study was to compare characteristics and activity of type 1 ED attendances according to whether their time of arrival was during the day (08:00–18:00) or at night (18:00–08:00).

Methods

Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data from NHS Digital for all A&E and admitted patient care activity provided by all acute (not mental health or primary care) NHS hospital trusts in Yorkshire and Humber (1 April 2011 to 31 March 2014) for adult patients were analysed. Adjusted linear and logistic regression was used to model the data.

Results

Adjusted regression analysis results show that patients who attended ED at night waited an extra 18.76 (95% CI 18.62 to 18.89) min to be seen by a clinician. They also spent an additional 13.64 (95% CI 13.47 to 13.81) min total in ED. Patients who attended at night were OR 2.20 (95% CI 2.17 to 2.23) times more likely to leave without being seen. They were also OR 1.26 (95% CI 1.25 to 1.27) times more likely to re-attend the ED and were OR 1.20 (95% CI 1.19 to 1.21) times more likely to present with non-urgent conditions. Overnight patients were more likely to be admitted to hospital, OR 1.09 (95% CI 1.09 to 1.10) times, however, those admitted were more likely to have a short-stay admission.

Conclusion

There is an ‘overnight effect’ of patients attending EDs. Patients wait longer, leave without being seen, attend with non-urgent problems and are more likely to be admitted for a short stay. Further work is required to identify the potential underlying causes of these differences.
Cross-sectional study of reversible airway obstruction in LAM: better evidence is needed for bronchodilator and inhaled steroid use
Authors: Johnson Jan , Johnson Simon R
Published: July 2019

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis can be associated with reversible airflow obstruction and although no guidelines around reversibility testing or inhaled therapy exist, many patients receive bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids. To better identify those who may benefit, we examined bronchodilator reversibility and inhaled therapy in a national cohort of 213 subjects. 20% of those tested had airway reversibility by standard criteria. 55% of patients used 13 different combinations of bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids. Increasing inhaler classes were associated with reversibility and more rapid FEV1decline. Reversibility testing should be performed in all patients and inhaled therapy should be formally studied.
Angiotensin II type 2 receptor blocker PD123319 has more beneficial effects than losartan on ischemia–reperfusion injury and oxidative damage in isolated rat heart
Authors: Kilic Aysu , Ustunova Savas , Usta Cansu , Bulut Huri , Meral Ismail , Demirci Tansel Cihan , Gurel Gurevin Ebru
Published: July 2019

Our study aimed to determine the effects of losartan and PD123319 in ischemia–reperfusion (IR) injury in isolated perfused rat heart. The study used 40 male Wistar albino rats that were grouped as Control, IR, and IR treatment groups that received losartan (20 mg/kg), PD123319 (20 mg/kg), and losartan+PD123319. The hearts were attached to Langendorff isolated heart system by employing in situ cannulation method, and cardiodynamic parameters were recorded during the experiment. At the end of experiment, hearts were retained for biochemical analysis and all data were statistically evaluated. A partial recovery of cardiodynamic parameters was observed in all treatment groups. A significant increase in oxidative stress parameters were seen in the IR group, whereas all treatment groups exhibited lower increase. Furthermore, levels of all antioxidant parameters were significantly lower in the IR group, but higher in the treatment groups. Effects on all parameters were much more remarkable in the PD123319 group. Levels of angiotensin II and renin were increased (P < 0.001) with IR application and decreased (P < 0.001) with the treatment of both antagonists. In conclusion, treatment of losartan and PD123319 played a cardioprotective role against IR injury, PD123319 being more effective in this protection.
Physiological responses of four apple (Malus × domesticaBorkh.) rootstock genotypes to soil water deficits
Authors: Wright D.E.J. , Cline J.A. , Earl H.J.
Published: July 2019

The use of drought-tolerant rootstocks is an important strategy in maintaining orchard productivity while meeting the increasing need to conserve water resources. The drought tolerance of two new genotypes, Vineland 1 (V.1) and Vineland 3 (V.3), was assessed along with industry standards to test the hypothesis that differences in water-use efficiency exist among these apple rootstocks. One-year-old, non-grafted nursery liners of M.9, MM.111, V.1, and V.3 were grown in a controlled-environment experiment. Plants of each genotype were maintained water-replete or were subjected to a 9-d controlled dry down and then maintained under water stress conditions for 55 d. Water stress reduced biomass accumulation and trunk cross-sectional area for all four genotypes. The two vigorous genotypes, MM.111 and V.1, increased their root-to-shoot ratios in response to water stress, whereas the root-to-shoot ratios of M.9 and V.3 remained unchanged in their water-replete controls. Genotype V.3 maintained its transpiration at a significantly lower soil water content compared to M.9, MM.111, and V.1. Of the four genotypes, V.3 demonstrated a high tolerance to water stress conditions, and therefore deserves further investigation using grafted apple trees in an orchard study.
The quasi-steady-state cosmology in a radiation-dominated phase
Authors: Bali Raj
Published: July 2019

Analytical solutions for radiation-dominated phase of Quasi-Steady-State Cosmology (QSSC) in Friedmann–Robertson–Walker models are obtained. We find that matter density is positive in all the cases [Formula: see text]. The nature of Hubble parameter (H) in [Formula: see text] is discussed. The deceleration parameter [Formula: see text] is marginally less than zero indicating accelerating universe. The scale factor [Formula: see text] is graphically shown with time. The model represents oscillating universe between the above-mentioned limits. Because of the bounce in QSSC, the maximum density phase is still matter-dominated. The models represent singularity-free model. We also find that the models have event horizon i.e. no observer beyond the proper distance [Formula: see text] can communicate each other in FRW models for radiation-dominated phase in the frame work of QSSC. The FRW models are special classes of Bianchi type I, V, IX spacetimes with zero, negative and positive curvatures, respectively. Initially i.e. at [Formula: see text], the models represent steady model. We have tried to show how a good fit can be obtained to the observations in the framework of QSSC during radiation-dominated phase. The present model is free from singularity, particle horizon and provides a natural explanation for the flatness problem. Therefore, our model is superior to other models.
Link prediction based on combined influence and effective path
Authors: Tian Yang , Li Han , Zhu Xuzhen , Tian Hui
Published: July 2019

Link prediction based on topological similarity in complex networks obtains more and more attention both in academia and industry. Most researchers believe that two unconnected endpoints can possibly make a link when they have large influence, respectively. Through profound investigations, we find that at least one endpoint possessing large influence can easily attract other endpoints. The combined influence of two unconnected endpoints affects their mutual attractions. We consider that the greater the combined influence of endpoints is, the more the possibility of them producing a link. Therefore, we explore the contribution of combined influence for similarity-based link prediction. Furthermore, we find that the transmission capability of path determines the communication possibility between endpoints. Meanwhile, compared to the local and global path, the quasi-local path balances high accuracy and low complexity more effectually in link prediction. Therefore, we focus on the transmission capabilities of quasi-local paths between two unconnected endpoints, which is called effective paths. In this paper, we propose a link prediction index based on combined influence and effective path (CIEP). A large number of experiments on 12 real benchmark datasets show that in most cases CIEP is capable of improving the prediction performance.
Non-traveling lump solutions and mixed lump–kink solutions to (2+1)-dimensional variable-coefficient Caudrey–Dodd–Gibbon–Kotera–Sawada equation
Authors: Wang Jing , An Hong-Li , Li Biao
Published: July 2019

Through Hirota bilinear form and symbolic computation with Maple, we investigate some non-traveling lump and mixed lump–kink solutions of the (2[Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text]1)-dimensional variable-coefficient Caudrey–Doddy–Gibbon–Kotera–Sawada equation by an extended method. Firstly, the non-traveling lump solutions are directly obtained by taking the function [Formula: see text] as a quadratic function. Secondly, we can get the interaction solutions for a lump solution and one kink solution by taking [Formula: see text] as a combination of quadratic function and exponential function. Finally, the interaction solutions between a lump solution and a pair of kinks solution can be derived by taking [Formula: see text] as a combination of quadratic function and hyperbolic cosine function. The dynamic phenomena of the above three types of exact solutions are demonstrated by some figures.
Single crystal growth and magnetic properties of Co-doped ZnNb2O6
Authors: Liu Ying , Xu Dapeng , Yu Huamin , Cui Tian , Li Liang
Published: July 2019

The columbite structure [Formula: see text] single crystals have been successfully grown by using the optical floating zone method. The as-grown crystals are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy (RS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). All these analyses show that the doping Co ions do not disturb the structure of columbite [Formula: see text] and some [Formula: see text] ions are substituted by transition metal [Formula: see text] ions without any other impurities. The magnetic properties of as-grown [Formula: see text] crystals have been investigated using Physical Property Measurement System (PPMS). The effective magnetic moment of [Formula: see text] crystals is [Formula: see text], indicating that [Formula: see text] ions present in [Formula: see text] single crystals are in mixed HS and LS states. The ferromagnetic, antiferromagnetic and paramagnetic characters of as-grown crystals are also discussed.
A Review of Geological Applications of High-Spatial-Resolution Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Wu Chunming , Li Xiao , Chen Weitao , Li Xianju
Published: July 2019

Geologists employ high-spatial-resolution (HR) remote sensing (RS) data for many diverse applications as they effectively reflect detailed geological information, enabling high-quality and efficient geological surveys. Applications of HR RS data to geological and related fields have grown recently. HR optical remote sensing data are widely used in geological hazard assessment, seismic monitoring, mineral exploitation, glacier monitoring, and mineral information extraction due to high accuracy and clear object features. By reviewing these applications, we can better understand the results of previous studies and more effectively use the latest data and methods to efficiently extract key geological information. Compared with optical satellite images, synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) images are stereoscopic and exhibit clear relief, strong performance, and good detection of terrain, landforms, and other information. SAR images have been applied to seismic mechanism research, volcanic monitoring, topographic deformation, and fault analysis. Furthermore, a multi-standard maturity analysis of the geological applications of HR images reveals that optical remote sensing data are superior to radar data for mining, geological disaster, lithologic, and volcanic applications, but inferior for earthquake, glacial, and fault applications. Therefore, it is necessary for geological remote sensing research to be truly multi-disciplinary or inter-disciplinary, ensuring more detailed and efficient surveys through cross-linking with other disciplines. Moreover, the recent application of deep learning technology to remote sensing data extraction has improved the capabilities of automatic processing and data analysis with HR images.
Explicit solutions of certain orientable quadratic equations in free groups
Authors: Gonçalves D. , Nasybullov T.
Published: July 2019

For [Formula: see text] denote by [Formula: see text] the free group on [Formula: see text] generators and let [Formula: see text]. For [Formula: see text] and elements [Formula: see text], we study orientable quadratic equations of the form [Formula: see text] with unknowns [Formula: see text] and provide explicit solutions for them for the minimal possible number [Formula: see text].

In the particular case when [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] the minimal number which satisfies [Formula: see text], we provide two types of solutions depending on the image of the subgroup [Formula: see text] generated by the solution under the natural homomorphism [Formula: see text]: the first solution, which is called a primitive solution, satisfies [Formula: see text], the second solution satisfies [Formula: see text].

We also provide an explicit solution of the equation [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text], and prove that if [Formula: see text], then every solution of this equation is primitive.

As a geometrical consequence, for every solution, we obtain a map [Formula: see text] from the orientable surface [Formula: see text] of genus [Formula: see text] to the torus [Formula: see text] which has the minimal number of roots among all maps from the homotopy class of [Formula: see text]. Depending on the number [Formula: see text], such maps have fundamentally different geometric properties: in some cases, they satisfy the Wecken property and in other cases not.
Recent results and perspectives on cosmic backgrounds from radio to far-infrared
Authors: Burigana Carlo , De Zotti Gianfranco , Fialkov Anastasia , Qadir Asghar , Trombetti Tiziana , Bonato Matteo , Negrello Mattia , Norgaard-Nielsen Hans Ulrik , Tahir Noraiz
Published: July 2019

Cosmological and astrophysical surveys from radio to far-infrared, in both temperature and polarization, offer a unique view of the universe properties and of the formation and evolution of its structures. The last release, close to be finalized, of the Planck mission results sets the scene for cosmological models and parameters, while the comparison with other types of data sets raises the issue of possible tensions about some parameters, first of all the Hubble constant. At the same time, on the extragalactic side, Planck carried out the deepest systematic all-sky survey of SZ galaxy clusters and detected thousands of dusty galaxies and many hundreds of extragalactic radio sources, also allowing us to investigate many specific topics, including molecular hydrogen clouds in galactic halos. The exploitation of future generation of CMB missions and the next radio facilities will allow us to deeply investigate several topics in cosmology and astrophysics, from the existence of primordial gravitational waves to the energy releases in the primeval plasma, from the dawn ages and the epoch of reionization to the formation and evolution of early galaxies and clusters, while a wide set of open astrophysical problems can be studied with future IR missions.
Two-body problem in presence of cosmological constant
Authors: Bisnovatyi-Kogan G. S. , Merafina M.
Published: July 2019

We consider the Kepler two-body problem in presence of the cosmological constant [Formula: see text]. Contrary to the classical case, where finite solutions exist for any angular momentum of the system [Formula: see text], in presence of [Formula: see text] finite solutions exist only in the interval [Formula: see text]. The qualitative picture of the two-body motion is described, and critical parameters of the problem are found. Application is made to the relative motion of the Local Group and Virgo cluster.
Dual-Issue Final-Offer Arbitration: Invariance of Pure Optimal Strategies Under Lp Metrics
Authors: Powers Brian R.
Published: July 2019

We consider a final-offer arbitration problem between two players with two quantitative issues in dispute. We model the problem as a zero-sum game where the arbiter’s opinion is drawn from a bivariate normal distribution and derive the only possible pure strategies regardless of the choice of [Formula: see text] metric used by the arbiter.
Robust randomized optimization with k nearest neighbors
Authors: Reeve Henry W. J. , Kabán Ata
Published: July 2019

Modern applications of machine learning typically require the tuning of a multitude of hyperparameters. With this motivation in mind, we consider the problem of optimization given a set of noisy function evaluations. We focus on robust optimization in which the goal is to find a point in the input space such that the function remains high when perturbed by an adversary within a given radius. Here we identify the minimax optimal rate for this problem, which turns out to be of order [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the sample size and [Formula: see text] quantifies the smoothness of the function for a broad class of problems, including situations where the metric space is unbounded. The optimal rate is achieved (up to logarithmic factors) by a conceptually simple algorithm based on [Formula: see text]-nearest neighbor regression.
Sensitivity Analysis-Based Optimization: A Case Study with the MTBF of an Aeronautical Hydraulic Pipeline System
Authors: Li Lei , Chang Qi , Zhou Changcong , Wang Wenxuan , Zhang Zheng
Published: July 2019

The complex layout and harsh working environment often encountered in aeronautical hydraulic pipeline system (AHPS) result in the requirement of a large number of constraints that are mainly utilized to avoid the damage caused by engine vibration and wing flutter. As a result, improvement of the mean time between failures (MTBF) of the AHPS considering all constraint locations is a costly process, and the management of such large-scale design variables is also frustrating. In this paper, a sensitivity analysis-based optimization is proposed. Firstly, the MTBF of AHPS under stochastic vibration is first deduced according to the first-passage theory-based dynamic strength reliability formula, and the corresponding optimization model is established. Secondly, a multiplicative-dimensional reduction method (M-DRM) based global sensitivity analysis (GSA) method is employed to screen out the constraint location coordinates that have little or no impact on MTBF. Lastly, the MTBF optimization is performed by considering only the remaining significant location coordinates as the design variables. The results show that the proposed sensitivity analysis-based optimization strategy shows advantages in efficiency and effect.
THE ROLE OF MARKET KNOWLEDGE TYPE ON PRODUCT INNOVATION PERFORMANCE
Authors: PETROVICI DAN , OBAL MICHAEL , WALTON BRYN , FEARNE ANDREW
Published: July 2019

While it is understood that market knowledge can positively impact product innovation performance (PIP), a better understanding on the nuanced roles of different aspects of market knowledge is needed. More specifically, we aim to gain an understanding of how different types of market knowledge, such as tacit knowledge, are developed and utilised, especially in high uncertainty environments. This research was conducted with a sample of in-depth interviews with industry experts in new product development in the UK grocery sector ([Formula: see text]) followed up by a survey of 193 companies from the UK grocery sector. The study proposes two measures of market information-gathering activities (MIGA) and market knowledge volume informed by input from experts in the UK grocery sector. Results show that MIGA have a positive effect on market knowledge volume and specificity. Market knowledge volume and specificity consequently have a direct effect on PIP. Finally, market knowledge tacitness is positively moderated by market uncertainty. That is, market knowledge tacitness is most impactful in high uncertainty environments, but offers limited benefit in low uncertainty environments. This study provides evidence of how market knowledge-gathering activities and types can positively impact new product performance, especially in high uncertainty environments.
Effect of Eu2O3 Concentration on the Properties of Red-Light-Emitting Sr1.5Ca0.5SiO4 Fluorescent Materials
Authors: Liu Jing , Wu Chia-Ching , Yang Cheng-Fu , Liou Lan-Sin
Published: July 2019

Red-light-emitting phosphors based on Sr[Formula: see text]Ca[Formula: see text]SiO4 activated by trivalent europium ions (Eu[Formula: see text] were successfully synthesized using a solid-state reaction method, and their luminescence properties were investigated. The photoluminescence spectra of Sr[Formula: see text]Ca[Formula: see text]SiO4:[Formula: see text] Eu[Formula: see text] phosphors synthesized at different temperatures and times and with different Eu[Formula: see text] concentrations revealed emission peaks at 591[Formula: see text]nm, 612[Formula: see text]nm and 655[Formula: see text]nm, which can probably be attributed to the transition of Eu[Formula: see text] ions from 5D0 to 7FJ (J = 1, 2 and 3). The emission intensities of the transitions from 5D0 to 7FJ (J = 1, 2 and 3) increased as the synthesizing temperature rose for 2[Formula: see text]h. Comparison with the relevant International Commission on Illumination diagram showed that Sr[Formula: see text]Ca[Formula: see text]SiO4:[Formula: see text] Eu[Formula: see text] phosphors synthesized at different temperatures and times and with different Eu[Formula: see text] concentrations all emitted red light, with phosphors synthesized at 1300∘C and with concentrations of 1.5[Formula: see text]at.% yielding the maximum emission intensity. These results show Sr[Formula: see text]Ca[Formula: see text]SiO4:1.5% Eu[Formula: see text] to be a noteworthy red-light-emitting phosphor candidate for white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs).
Enhanced Visible-Light Photocatalytic Degradation of Antibiotics by MoS2-Modified U-g-C3N4/T-g-C3N4 Isotypic Heterojunction
Authors: Liu Hongjin , Wang Yu , Lv Jun , Xu Guangqing , Zhang Xinyi , Wu Yucheng
Published: July 2019

Based on U-g-C3N4 (U-gCN) and T-g-C3N4 (T-gCN) prepared with urea and thiourea as raw materials, respectively, a visible-light-driven MoS2-modified U-gCN/T-gCN/MoS2 (UTM) ternary heterojunction photocatalyst was successfully prepared using a sonication and bathing method. The photocatalytic activity of as-prepared photocatalyst was evaluated through the degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) and Rhodamine B (RhB) under the visible light irradiation. The UTM ternary heterojunction showed remarkably enhanced photocatalytic activity. For the degradation of TC and RhB, the degradation rates of 93.9% and 99.9% have been achieved after being irradiated under visible light for 2[Formula: see text]h and 1[Formula: see text]h, respectively. The enhanced photocatalytic performance can be ascribed to the role of loaded MoS2 cocatalyst and the well-formed interfaces between U-gCN and T-gCN, which not only enhance the light absorption, but also accelerate the separation and transfer of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. Furthermore, UTM ternary heterojunction has excellent recyclability and chemical stability. The photodegradation rates of 89.9% and 96.78% of TC and RhB have been obtained, respectively, after being reused for five times. Sacrificial agent tests demonstrate that [Formula: see text][Formula: see text] is the major reactive species in the photocatalytic reaction system.
Enhanced Visible-Light Photocatalytic Remediation of Tetracycline Hydrochloride by Nanostructured BiOI Homojunctions
Authors: Qiao Mengzhu , Liu Hongjin , Lv Jun , Xu Guangqing , Zhang Xinyi , Shu Xia , Wu Yucheng
Published: July 2019

The BiOI homojunctions were constructed between BiOI nanosheets and BiOI nanoflowers, which were prepared with a facile ultrasound-assisted solvothermal method. BiOI nanosheets were uniformly distributed on BiOI nanoflowers surface. The homojunction structure constructed between nanosheets and nanoflowers efficiently speeds up the transfer and separation of photoinduced charge carriers, which is beneficial to promote the photocatalytic activity. Compared with single BiOI, BiOI homojunctions exhibit remarkably improved photocatalytic degradation activity for tetracycline hydrochloride (TC); photodegradation rate of 69.43% for TC has been reached after being irradiated under visible light for 1[Formula: see text]h. Deeper analyses of photocatalytic degradation mechanism of TC have been conducted; the results identify that [Formula: see text] and h[Formula: see text] play important roles during the TC degradation reaction.
A Sb2Se3/Palygorskite Nanocomposite Catalyst for p-Nitrophenol Reduction
Authors: Tan Lin , Tang Aidong , He Muen , Wen Xin , Zhong Laifu , Yan Peng , Chenc Jing , Zhang Yi
Published: July 2019

A nanocomposite consisting of rod-like Sb2Se3 and fiberous palygorskite (Pal) was prepared using cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) as a pillaring agent to change Pal microstructure. CTAB optimal dosage was 0.2[Formula: see text]g (versus 0.388[Formula: see text]g of Pal). Sb2Se3/Pal has a high catalytic activity towards the catalytic reduction of [Formula: see text]-nitrophenol to [Formula: see text]-aminophenol while in the presence of NaBH4 at room temperature. The excellent performance is attributed to dispersion of rod-like Sb2Se3 in fiberous Pal which promoted more active sites exposure. The results provide new ideas for preparing new catalysts.
Analysis of Influencing Factors and Numerical Simulation of Horizontal-to-Vertical Spectral Ratio Method
Authors: Qingling Du , Zhengping Liu , Shijie Liu
Published: July 2019

To improve the calculation accuracy of the horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) method, this study theoretically analyzed the influencing factors of Rayleigh wave polarizability. The phase difference of the horizontal component and the phase difference of the vertical component are found to play a key role in calculating the polarizability. The influence mechanism of the superposition of body waves and different Rayleigh waves on the polarizability of the Rayleigh wave is derived. The effects of the body wave, amplitude, frequency and Rayleigh wave superposition of different sources on the polarizability are verified by numerical simulation. The results show that the body wave significantly interferes with the polarizability of the Rayleigh wave. When a signal contains more than one set of Rayleigh waves, the superposition of the same-source Rayleigh waves does not affect the ratio. However, the superposition of Rayleigh waves from different sources significantly interferes with the calculation of the polarizability. This provides a technical method and a theoretical basis for accurately extracting the Rayleigh wave polarizability dispersion curve from a seismic record signal. This would help improve the detection accuracy of the HVSR method for ground pulse signals.
A mathematical model for preventing HIV virus from proliferating inside CD4 T brownian cell using Gaussian jump nanorobot
Authors: El-Hadidy Mohamed Abd Allah , Alzulaibani Alaa A.
Published: July 2019

We present a statistical distribution of a nanorobot motion inside the blood. This distribution is like the distribution of A and B particles in continuous time random walk scheme inside the fluid reactive anomalous transport with stochastic waiting time depending on the Gaussian distribution and a Gaussian jump length which is detailed in Zhang and Li [J. Stat. Phys., Published Online with https://doi.org/10.1007/s10955-018-2185-8 , 2018]. Rather than estimating the length parameter of the jumping distance of the nanorobot, we normalize the Probability Density Function (PDF) and present some reliability properties for this distribution. In addition, we discuss the truncated version of this distribution and its statistical properties, and estimate its length parameter. We use the estimated distance to study the conditions that give a finite expected value of the first meeting time between this nanorobot in the case of nonlinear flow with independent [Formula: see text]-dimensional Gaussian jumps and an independent [Formula: see text]-dimensional CD4 T Brownian cell in the blood ([Formula: see text]-space) to prevent the HIV virus from proliferating within this cell.
Bounds on the co-Roman domination number in graphs
Authors: Dehgardi N. , Sheikholeslami S. M. , Soroudi M. , Volkmann L.
Published: July 2019

Let [Formula: see text] be a graph and let [Formula: see text] be a function. A vertex [Formula: see text] is protected with respect to [Formula: see text], if [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is adjacent to a vertex of positive weight. The function [Formula: see text] is a co-Roman dominating function, abbreviated CRDF if: (i) every vertex in [Formula: see text] is protected, and (ii) each [Formula: see text] with positive weight has a neighbor [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] such that the function [Formula: see text], defined by [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text], has no unprotected vertex. The weight of [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]. The co-Roman domination number of a graph [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text], is the minimum weight of a co-Roman dominating function on [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we present some new sharp bounds on [Formula: see text]. Some of our results improve the previous bounds.
A note on the Frame–Stewart conjecture
Authors: Bousch Thierry , Hinz Andreas M. , Klavžar Sandi , Parisse Daniele , Petr Ciril , Stockmeyer Paul K.
Published: July 2019

Providing the example of a disc whose number of moves performed in some minimal solution for the Tower of Hanoi problem is not a power of 2, we show that the argument given in a paper by Demontis in this journal is false and the method incapable of solving the Frame–Stewart conjecture on the Tower of Hanoi with more than three pegs.
Numerical Evaluation of Ventilation Efficiency of Window Type Ventilation Systems
Authors: Yang Young Kwon , Kim Min Young , Moon Jin Woo , Park Jin Chul
Published: July 2019

Ventilation in buildings is the simplest and most convenient way to purify indoor air. However, when the ventilation is not enough due to natural ventilation, it should be cleaned by mechanical ventilation or air purifier. This process requires building energy. Therefore, it is possible to save the energy of the building by merely increasing the natural ventilation efficiency. This study conducted airflow analysis simulations to investigate the effects of changes in the shape of ventilation openings and louvers on the ventilation efficiency of a window ventilation system. The streamlined window opening exhibited a greater increase in airflow (41.3%) than did the conventional window (24.3%) for the ventilation model with four openings. It was also observed that flow separation and wakes were generated by the adverse pressure gradient arising from the increased airflow speed when a louver was employed. Based on these results, it can be concluded that using a louver as a wind augmentation device is an obstacle to improving the airflow in a window ventilation system.
A-Team Solving Distributed Resource-Constrained Multi-Project Scheduling Problem
Authors: Jędrzejowicz Piotr , Ratajczak-Ropel Ewa
Published: July 2019

In this paper, a multi-agent system (MAS) based on the A-Team concept is proposed to solve the Distributed Resource-Constrained Multi-Project Scheduling Problem (DRCMPSP). In the DRCMPSP, multiple distributed projects are considered. Hence, the local task schedule for each project and a coordination of the shared decisions are considered. The DRCMPSP belongs to the class of the strongly NP-hard optimization problems. Multi-agent system seems the natural way of solving such problems. The A-Team MAS, proposed in this paper, has been built using the JABAT environment where two types of the optimization agents are used: local and global. Local optimization agents are used to find solutions for the local projects, and global optimization agents are responsible for the coordination of the local projects and for finding the global solutions. The approach has been tested experimentally using 140 benchmark problem instances from MPSPLIB library with minimizing the Average Project Delay (APD) as global optimization criterion.
Adjoint Code Design Patterns
Authors: Naumann Uwe
Published: July 2019

Adjoint methods have become fundamental ingredients of the scientific computing toolbox over the past decades. Large-scale parameter sensitivity analysis, uncertainty quantification, and nonlinear optimization would otherwise turn out computationally infeasible. The symbolic derivation of adjoint mathematical models for relevant problems in science and engineering and their implementation in consistency with the implementation of the underlying primal model frequently proves highly challenging. Hence, an increased interest in algorithmic adjoints can be observed.

The algorithmic derivation of adjoint numerical simulation programs shifts some of the problems faced from functional and numerical analysis to computer science. It becomes a highly complex software engineering task requiring expertise in software analysis, transformation, and optimization. Despite rather mature software tool support for algorithmic differentiation, substantial user intervention is typically required when targeting nontrivial numerical programs. A large number of patterns shared by numerous application codes results in repeated duplication of development effort. The adjoint code design patterns introduced in this article aim to reduce this problem through improved formalization from the software engineering perspective. Fully functional reference implementations are provided through github.
Our Paradigm for Paradigms in IS
Authors: Stafford Tom , Petter Stacie
Published: July 2019

In the "publish or perish" world that we exist in as scholars, we note the emergence of an interesting pattern. Research is increasingly oriented around pre-existing, well-known, and widely accepted theoretical models, for which incremental advancements are devised by way of contribution. This is the way of "traditional" scientific work (consistent with Kuhn, 1962; 1970). Yet, this "traditional" approach to science is not as interesting as it could be for those of us editors, reviewers, and readers who are thirsty for new theoretical vistas and fresh ideas to inform our worldview of information systems.

Indeed, it would seem that our paradigm (that which guides us in Kuhnian practice of our scientific craft of article production) has become what Kuhn, himself, might have said of paradigms at the late stage of maturity, just in advance of revolutions in which normal science puzzle solving ceased to work as expected: the paradigm by which we operate in our normal science practice, and the paradigms with which we study our scientific problems, are as limiting to us as anything else.
A Post-Positivist Answering Back.
Authors: Gefen David
Published: July 2019

In Part 1 the argument was made for the core Positivist principle of enabling falsification, specifically that data, or at least correlation or covariance matrices, should be made public so that others can attempt to falsify at least the statistical analyses. Doing so could provide a semblance of the direction of what might constitute the desired Positivist aspects of intellectual integrity in science: making your claims and putting your data in the public domain so others may put its propositions to the test and try to falsify or improve on them. Part 2 demonstrates the importance of such disclosure. The demo begins with replicating the model in Structural Equation Modeling and Regression: Guidelines for Research Practice (Gefen et al., 2000) in PLS and CBSEM R packages, producing equivalent results as the original paper. Showing the point about the need to have the data in the public domain, a set of incorrectly specified models on the same data are then run. Both PLS and CBSEM converge and produce plausibly believable results if the data were not available to test alternative models, opening the possibility of pulling the wool over readers' eyes if such a correlation or covariance matrix is not provided.
It's in the Cloud
Authors: Ogbanufe Obi , Dinulescu Catalin C. , Liu Xiaotong , Kucuk Carullah Y.
Published: July 2019

This paper examines the impact of mobile device characteristics on perceptions of cloud storage. Following the framework and guidelines for context-specific theorizing in information systems research, we develop and test a model that examines the following research questions: How does the individual's experience with mobile devices impact perceptions of mobile cloud storage? How do mobile context-specific factors influence the individual's adoption of cloud storage? The model incorporates context-specific factors such as ease of file storage, ease of file transfer, multiple device use, and mobile device use. Our study contributes to the literature on theorizing context-specific factors by highlighting the importance of mobile device characteristics and usage contexts in individual technology adoption research. We also identify both performance increases and security challenges in providing access to cloud storage through mobile devices to individuals.
A conceptual framework for the core concept of “cell membrane”
Authors: Michael Joel , Modell Harold
Published: July 2019

We have created and validated a conceptual framework for the core physiology concept of “cell membrane.” The conceptual framework is composed of 27 items arranged in a hierarchy that is, in some instances, four levels deep. We have validated it with input from faculty who teach at a wide variety of institutional types. All items making up the framework were deemed essential to moderately important. However, some of the main ideas were clearly judged to be more important than others. Furthermore, the lower in the hierarchy an item is located, the less important it is thought to be. Finally, there was no significant difference in the ratings given by faculty at different types of institutions.
IGF-1/IGF-1R blockade ameliorates diabetic kidney disease through normalizing Snail1 expression in a mouse model
Authors: Dong Rong , Yu Jiali , Yu Funxun , Yang Song , Qian Qi , Zha Yan
Published: July 2019

This study investigated the role of insulin-like growth factor-1/insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1/IGF-1R) in the genesis and progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced mouse diabetes model. We showed elevated IGF-1 expression in the DKD kidneys after 16 wk of diabetic onset. Intraperitoneal administration of IGF-1R inhibitor (glycogen synthase kinase-3β, GSK4529) from week 8 to week 16 postdiabetes induction ameliorated urinary albumin excretion and kidney histological changes due to diabetes, including amelioration of glomerulomegaly, inflammatory infiltration, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. The GSK4529 treatment also attenuated alterations in renal tubular expression of E-cad and matrix protein fibronectin. Moreover, renal fibrosis in DKD (without treatment) was associated with Snail1 overexpression that was effectively prevented by IGF-1R inhibition. Further experiments in cultured renal epithelial cells (NRK) showed that IGF-1 silencing reproduced in vivo effects of IGF-1R inhibition with markedly attenuated Snail1 expression and near normalization of the Ecad1 and fibronectin expression pattern. Further Snail1 silencing prevented high-glucose-induced changes without affecting IGF-1 expression, consistent with Snail1 acting downstream to IGF-1. The antifibrotic effects were also shown with benazepril or insulin treatment but to a much lesser degree. In summary, in STZ-induced diabetic mice, activation of IGF-1 in diabetic kidneys induces fibrogenesis through Snail1 upregulation. The diabetes-related histological and functional changes, as well as fibrogenesis, can be attenuated by IGF-1/IGF-1R inhibition.
Some Integral Inequalities for Harmonically (α,s)-Convex Functions
Authors: Özcan Serap
Published: July 2019

In the paper, the author introduces a new class of harmonically convex functions, which is called harmonically α,s-convex functions and establishes some new integral inequalities of the Hermite-Hadamard type for harmonically α,s-convex functions. The properties of the newly introduced class of harmonically convex functions are also investigated. Finally, some applications to special means are given.
Skin Color and Severe Maternal Outcomes: Evidence from the Brazilian Network for Surveillance of Severe Maternal Morbidity
Authors: Fernandes K. G. , Costa M. L. , Haddad S. M. , Parpinelli M. A. , Sousa M. H. , Cecatti J. G. , Surveillance Maternal Morbidity Study Group the Brazilian Network for of Severe
Published: July 2019

Background. Taking into account the probable role that race/skin color may have for determining outcomes in maternal health, the objective of this study was to assess whether maternal race/skin color is a predictor of severe maternal morbidity. Methods. This is a secondary analysis of the Brazilian Network for Surveillance of Severe Maternal Morbidity, a national multicenter cross-sectional study of 27 Brazilian referral maternity hospitals. A prospective surveillance was performed to identify cases of maternal death (MD), maternal near miss (MNM) events, and potentially life-threatening conditions (PLTC), according to standard WHO definition and criteria. Among 9,555 women with severe maternal morbidity, data on race/skin color was available for 7,139 women, who were further divided into two groups: 4,108 nonwhite women (2,253 black and 1,855 from other races/skin color) and 3,031 white women. Indicators of severe maternal morbidity according to WHO definition are shown by skin color group. Adjusted Prevalence Ratios (PRadj - 95%CI) for Severe Maternal Outcome (SMO=MNM+MD) were estimated according to sociodemographic/obstetric characteristics, pregnancy outcomes, and perinatal results considering race. Results. Among 7,139 women with severe maternal morbidity evaluated, 90.5% were classified as PLTC, 8.5% as MNM, and 1.6% as MD. There was a significantly higher prevalence of MNM and MD among white women. MNMR (maternal near miss ratio) was 9.37 per thousand live births (LB). SMOR (severe maternal outcome ratio) was 11.08 per 1000 LB, and MMR (maternal mortality ratio) was 170.4 per 100,000 LB. Maternal mortality to maternal near miss ratio was 1 to 5.2, irrespective of maternal skin color. Hypertension, the main cause of maternal complications, affected mostly nonwhite women. Hemorrhage, the second more common cause of maternal complication, predominated among white women. Nonwhite skin color was associated with a reduced risk of SMO in multivariate analysis. Conclusion. Nonwhite skin color was associated with a lower risk for severe maternal outcomes. This result could be due to confounding factors linked to a high rate of Brazilian miscegenation.