bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher-order gravity and the classical equivalence principle
Authors: Accioly Antonio , Herdy Wallace
Published: October 2017

As is well known, the deflection of any particle by a gravitational field within the context of Einstein’s general relativity — which is a geometrical theory — is, of course, nondispersive. Nevertheless, as we shall show in this paper, the mentioned result will change totally if the bending is analyzed — at the tree level — in the framework of higher-order gravity. Indeed, to first order, the deflection angle corresponding to the scattering of different quantum particles by the gravitational field mentioned above is not only spin dependent, it is also dispersive (energy-dependent). Consequently, it violates the classical equivalence principle (universality of free fall, or equality of inertial and gravitational masses) which is a nonlocal principle. However, contrary to popular belief, it is in agreement with the weak equivalence principle which is nothing but a statement about purely local effects. It is worthy of note that the weak equivalence principle encompasses the classical equivalence principle locally. We also show that the claim that there exists an incompatibility between quantum mechanics and the weak equivalence principle, is incorrect.
Stick number of tangles
Authors: Huh Youngsik , Lee Jung Hoon , Taniyama Kouki
Published: October 2017

An [Formula: see text]-string tangle is a pair [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is a disjoint union of properly embedded [Formula: see text] arcs in a topological [Formula: see text]-ball [Formula: see text]. And an [Formula: see text]-string tangle is said to be trivial (or rational)[Formula: see text], if it is homeomorphic to [Formula: see text] as a pair, where [Formula: see text] is a 2-disk, [Formula: see text] is the unit interval and each [Formula: see text] is a point in the interior of [Formula: see text]. A stick tangle is a tangle each of whose arcs consists of finitely many line segments, called sticks. For an [Formula: see text]-string stick tangle its stick-order is defined to be a nonincreasing sequence [Formula: see text] of natural numbers such that, under an ordering of the arcs of the tangle, each [Formula: see text] denotes the number of sticks constituting the [Formula: see text]th arc of the tangle. And a stick-order [Formula: see text] is said to be trivial, if every stick tangle of the order [Formula: see text] is trivial.

In this paper, restricting the [Formula: see text]-ball [Formula: see text] to be the standard 3-ball, we give the complete list of trivial stick-orders.
Warm logamediate inflation in Starobinsky inflationary model
Authors: Sharif M. , Nawazish Iqra
Published: October 2017

This paper investigates the dynamics of warm logamediate inflation for flat isotropic and homogeneous universe in Einstein frame representation of [Formula: see text] gravity. In this scenario, we study dissipative effects for weak and strong interactions of inflaton field via constant and generalized dissipative coefficient. In both interacting regimes, we find inflaton solution corresponding to scalar potential and radiation density of dissipating inflaton. Under slow-roll approximation, we formulate scalar and tensor power spectra, their spectral indices and tensor–scalar ratio for Starobinsky inflationary model and construct graphical analysis of these observational parameters. It is concluded that this model remains compatible with Planck 2015 constraints in weak and strong regimes for constant dissipative coefficient. For generalized dissipative coefficient, the inflationary model yields consistent results for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in strong regime while condition of warm inflation is violated for [Formula: see text] in weak regime.
Using simulation and production data to resolve ambiguity in interpreting 4D seismic inverted impedance in the Norne Field
Authors: Maleki Masoud , Davolio Alessandra , Schiozer Denis José
Published: October 2017

The Norne Field started production in 1997 and up to 2006 the field experienced intense production activity, making the Norne benchmark case an ideal candidate to explore the challenges in interpreting complex time-lapse seismic data. Seismic amplitude changes and time-shifts are used as the first level approach to interpret the time-lapse differences and to update reservoir models. A common alternative is to invert the seismic data and obtain acoustic impedance variations caused by production activity, and to evaluate their possible interpretations. For this case study, we use a 4D inversion approach to invert the base (2001) and monitor (2006) seismic surveys in order to provide field-wide insights for the Norne benchmark case. We extensively interpret the observed 4D inversion anomalies and decouple, as much as possible, the effects of fluid and pressure variations, supported by production and reservoir engineering data. Moreover, we compare the inversion results with the simulation model from the Norne benchmark case to suggest areas of future modification to the simulation model. This research is intended as a resource to improve the quality of history matching or other 4D inversion methods applied to the Norne benchmark case, and to demonstrate a detailed time-lapse seismic interpretation within the reservoir segments of the Norne Field.

Supplementary material:
Well-history data of six producer and injector wells is available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3890251
Thermal maturity, hydrocarbon potential and kerogen type of some Triassic–Lower Cretaceous sediments from the SW Barents Sea and Svalbard
Authors: Abay Tesfamariam Berhane , Karlsen Dag Arild , Pedersen Jon Halvard , Olaussen Snorre , Backer-Owe Kristian
Published: October 2017

Rock-Eval and total organic carbon (TOC) analyses of 144 samples representing Triassic–Lower Cretaceous intervals from the SW Barents Sea (the Svalis Dome, the Nordkapp and Hammerfest basins, and the Bjarmeland Platform) and Svalbard demonstrate lateral variations in source rock properties. Good to excellent source rocks are present in the Lower–Middle Triassic Botneheia and Steinkobbe, and Upper Jurassic Hekkingen formations, 1 – 7 wt% and 6 – 19 wt% TOC, respectively. Hydrogen indices of 298 – 609 mg HC/g TOC in the Botneheia Formation from Svalbard, and 197 – 540 mg HC/g TOC in the Steinkobbe Formation of Svalis Dome suggest Type II (oil-prone) and Type II/III (oil/gas-prone) kerogens, respectively. The Kobbe Formation (Botneheia/Steinkobbe-equivalent) is organic-lean and generally gas-prone (Type III kerogen) on the Bjarmeland Platform and in the Nordkapp Basin, and is a good source rock with Type III/II kerogen in the Hammerfest Basin. In the investigated wells, the Hekkingen Formation is more oil-prone on the Bjarmeland Platform than in the Nordkapp Basin, while Lower Cretaceous samples have poor potential for oil. Upper Triassic samples show potential mainly for gas; however, coal/coaly-shale samples in well 7430/07-U-01 (Bjarmeland Platform) are oil/gas-prone. Most samples analysed are immature to early mature; thus, the variation in petroleum potential and kerogen type is a function of organic facies rather than maturity levels.
Impact of the Invasive Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in North America and Europe: History, Biology, Ecology, and Management
Authors: Leskey Tracy C. , Nielsen Anne L.
Published: October 2017

The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), Halyomorpha halys (Stål), is an invasive pentatomid introduced from Asia into the United States, Canada, multiple European countries, and Chile. In 2010, BMSB populations in the mid-Atlantic United States reached outbreak levels and subsequent feeding severely damaged tree fruit as well as other crops. Significant nuisance issues from adults overwintering inside homes were common. BMSB is a highly polyphagous species with a strong dispersal capacity and high reproductive output, potentially enabling its spread and success in invaded regions. A greater understanding of BMSB biology and ecology and its natural enemies, the identification of the male-produced aggregation pheromone, and the recognition that BMSB disperses into crops from adjacent wooded habitats have led to the development of behavior-based integrated pest management (IPM) tactics. Much is still unknown about BMSB, and continued long-term collaborative studies are necessary to refine crop-specific IPM programs and enhance biological control across invaded landscapes.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 analog prevents obesity-related glomerulopathy by inhibiting excessive autophagy in podocytes
Authors: Guo Honglei , Wang Bin , Li Hongmei , Ling Lilu , Niu Jianying , Gu Yong
Published: October 2017

To investigate the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 analog (GLP-1) in high-fat diet-induced obesity-related glomerulopathy (ORG). Male C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet for 12 wk were treated with GLP-1 (200 μg/kg) or 0.9% saline for 4 wk. Fasting blood glucose and insulin and the expression of podocin, nephrin, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), glucose transporter type (Glut4), and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3) were assayed. Glomerular morphology and podocyte foot structure were evaluated by periodic acid-Schiff staining and electron microscopy. Podocytes were treated with 150 nM GLP-1 and incubated with 400 μM palmitic acid (PA) for 12 h. The effect on autophagy was assessed by podocyte-specific Glut4 siRNA. Insulin resistance and autophagy were assayed by immunofluorescence and Western blotting. The high-fat diet resulted in weight gain, ectopic glomerular lipid accumulation, increased insulin resistance, and fusion of podophyte foot processes. The decreased translocation of Glut4 to the plasma membrane and excess autophagy seen in mice fed a high-fat diet and in PA-treated cultured podocytes were attenuated by GLP-1. Podocyte-specific Glut4 siRNA promoted autophagy, and rapamycin-enhanced autophagy worsened the podocyte injury caused by PA. Excess autophagy in podocytes was induced by inhibition of Glut4 translocation to the plasma membrane and was involved in the pathology of ORG. GLP-1 restored insulin sensitivity and ameliorated renal injury by decreasing the level of autophagy.
Individualized tracking of self-directed motor learning in group-housed mice performing a skilled lever positioning task in the home cage
Authors: Silasi Gergely , Boyd Jamie D. , Bolanos Federico , LeDue Jeff M. , Scott Stephen H. , Murphy Timothy H.
Published: October 2017

Skilled forelimb function in mice is traditionally studied through behavioral paradigms that require extensive training by investigators and are limited by the number of trials individual animals are able to perform within a supervised session. We developed a skilled lever positioning task that mice can perform within their home cage. The task requires mice to use their forelimb to precisely hold a lever mounted on a rotary encoder within a rewarded position to dispense a water reward. A Raspberry Pi microcomputer is used to record lever position during trials and to control task parameters, thus making this low-footprint apparatus ideal for use within animal housing facilities. Custom Python software automatically increments task difficulty by requiring a longer hold duration, or a more accurate hold position, to dispense a reward. The performance of individual animals within group-housed mice is tracked through radio-frequency identification implants, and data stored on the microcomputer may be accessed remotely through an active internet connection. Mice continuously engage in the task for over 2.5 mo and perform ~500 trials/24 h. Mice required ~15,000 trials to learn to hold the lever within a 10° range for 1.5 s and were able to further refine movement accuracy by limiting their error to a 5° range within each trial. These results demonstrate the feasibility of autonomously training group-housed mice on a forelimb motor task. This paradigm may be used in the future to assess functional recovery after injury or cortical reorganization induced by self-directed motor learning.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We developed a low-cost system for fully autonomous training of group-housed mice on a forelimb motor task. We demonstrate the feasibility of tracking both end-point, as well as kinematic performance of individual mice, with each performing thousands of trials over 2.5 mo. The task is run and controlled by a Raspberry Pi microcomputer, which allows for cages to be monitored remotely through an active internet connection.
Experience-dependent trends in CA1 theta and slow gamma rhythms in freely behaving mice
Authors: Gereke Brian J. , Mably Alexandra J. , Colgin Laura Lee
Published: October 2017

CA1 place cells become more anticipatory with experience, an effect thought to be caused by NMDA receptor-dependent plasticity in the CA3–CA1 network. Theta (~5–12 Hz), slow gamma (~25–50 Hz), and fast gamma (~50–100 Hz) rhythms are thought to route spatial information in the hippocampal formation and to coordinate place cell ensembles. Yet, it is unknown whether these rhythms exhibit experience-dependent changes concurrent with those observed in place cells. Slow gamma rhythms are thought to indicate inputs from CA3 to CA1, and such inputs are thought to be strengthened with experience. Thus, we hypothesized that slow gamma rhythms would become more evident with experience. We tested this hypothesis using mice freely traversing a familiar circular track for three 10-min sessions per day. We found that slow gamma amplitude was reduced in the early minutes of the first session of each day, even though both theta and fast gamma amplitudes were elevated during this same period. However, in the first minutes of the second and third sessions of each day, all three rhythms were elevated. Interestingly, theta was elevated to a greater degree in the first minutes of the first session than in the first minutes of later sessions. Additionally, all three rhythms were strongly influenced by running speed in dynamic ways, with the influence of running speed on theta and slow gamma changing over time within and across sessions. These results raise the possibility that experience-dependent changes in hippocampal rhythms relate to changes in place cell activity that emerge with experience.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We show that CA1 theta, slow gamma, and fast gamma rhythms exhibit characteristic changes over time within sessions in familiar environments. These effects in familiar environments evolve across repeated sessions.
Oxidative Stress Alters the Profile of Transcription Factors Related to Early Development on In Vitro Produced Embryos
Authors: Leite Roberta Ferreira , Annes Kelly , Ispada Jessica , de Lima Camila Bruna , dos Santos Érika Cristina , Fontes Patricia Kubo , Nogueira Marcelo Fábio Gouveia , Milazzotto Marcella Pecora
Published: October 2017

High oxygen levels during in vitro culture (IVC) can induce oxidative stress through accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), negatively affecting embryo development. This study evaluated the effect of different O2 tensions during IVC on bovine blastocyst development and transcriptional status, considering transcription factors that play an essential role during early embryo development. For this purpose, embryos were produced in vitro by conventional protocols and cultured in two different oxygen tensions, physiological (5%) and atmospheric (20%). Expanded blastocysts were subjected to transcript quantitation analysis by RT‐qPCR with Biomark™ HD System (Fluidigm, US), using 67 TaqMan assays specific for Bos taurus. Differences were observed in genes related to oxidation‐reduction processes, DNA‐dependent transcription factors, and factors related to important functional pathways for embryo development. Blastocyst rate was higher in the 5% O2 group and the number of cells was assessed, with the 5% O2 group having a higher number of cells. ROS concentration was evaluated, with a higher ROS presence in the 20% O2 group. Taken together, these results allow us to conclude that IVC of embryos at atmospheric O2 tension affects the expression of important transcription factors involved in multiple cell biology pathways that can affect embryo development, quality, and viability.
A Subband-Specific Deconvolution Model for MTF Improvement in CT
Authors: Han Seokmin , Choi Kihwan , Yoo Sang Wook
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this research is to achieve uniform spatial resolution in CT (computed tomography) images without hardware modification. The main idea of this study is to consider geometry optics model, which can provide the approximate blurring PSF (point spread function) kernel, which varies according to the distance from X-ray tube to each pixel. The FOV (field of view) was divided into several band regions based on the distance from X-ray source, and each region was deconvolved with different deconvolution kernels. Though more precise calculation for the PSF for deconvolution is possible as the number of subbands increases, we set the number of subbands to 11. 11 subband settings seem to be a balancing point to reduce noise boost, while MTF (modulation transfer function) increase still remains. As the results show, subband-wise deconvolution makes image resolution (in terms of MTF) relatively uniform across the FOV. The results show that spatial resolution in CT images can be uniform across the FOV without using additional equipment. The beauty of this method is that it can be applied to any CT system as long as we know the specific system parameters and determine the appropriate PSF for deconvolution maps of the system. The proposed algorithm shows promising result in improving spatial resolution uniformity while avoiding the excessive noise boost.
Nrf2, a Potential Therapeutic Target against Oxidative Stress in Corneal Diseases
Authors: Liu Xiu-Fen , Zhou Dan-Dan , Xie Tian , Malik Tayyab Hamid , Lu Cheng-Bo , Li Hai-Jun , Wang Fan , Shu Chang , Liu Cong , Lu Cheng-Wei , Hao Ji-Long
Published: October 2017

Corneal diseases are one of the major causes of blindness worldwide. Conservative medical agents, which may prevent sight‐threatening corneal disease progression, are urgently desired. Numerous evidences have revealed the involvement of oxidative stress in various corneal diseases, such as corneal wound healing and Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). Nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (Nrf2)/Kelch‐like erythroid‐cell‐derived protein with CNC homology‐ (ECH‐) associated protein 1 (Keap1)/antioxidant response element (ARE) signaling is well known as one of the main antioxidative defense systems. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review to elucidate the different expression profiles of Nrf2 signaling as well as the underlying mechanisms in corneal diseases, implicating that Nrf2 may serve as a potentially promising therapeutic target for corneal diseases.
Interaction between Flow Diverter and Parent Artery of Intracranial Aneurysm: A Computational Study
Authors: Fu Wenyu , Xia Qixiao
Published: October 2017

To evaluate the influence of deployment strategy on the mechanical interaction between braided stent and parent artery of intracranial aneurysm (the elasticity of the arterial wall is considered), finite-element analyses are carried out by referring to computational models of flow-diverter device and arterial wall. Two implantation strategies are used to virtually implant the braided stent into the ideal intracranial aneurysm model. One is the noncompacted implantation method, and the other is the implantation method of using push-pull technique. During the process of the implantation, the changes of the arterial shape around the aneurysm and the changes of the wall pressure at the contact area between the braided stent and the inner wall of the artery are analyzed. The results indicate that the average contact pressure in the area of low porosity is 57 mmHg using the push-pull technique, and the average contact pressure of the parent artery is 10.45 mmHg using the non-push-pull technique. The diameter of the parent artery at the aneurismal orifice increased about 0.2 mm when using the push-pull technique, so the elasticity of the vessel should be considered in the mechanical analysis of interaction between stent and vessel.
Numerical Study of the Performance and Emission of a Diesel‐Syngas Dual Fuel Engine
Authors: Feng Shiquan
Published: October 2017

Based on the theory of direct relation graph (DRG) and the sensitivity analysis, a reduced mechanism for the diesel‐syngas dual fuel was constructed. Three small thresholds were applied in the process of the detailed mechanism simplification by DRG, and a skeletal mechanism with 185 elements and the 832 elementary reactions was obtained. According to the framework of the skeletal mechanism, the time‐consuming approach of sensitivity analysis was employed for further simplification, and the skeletal mechanism was further reduced to the size of 158 elements and 705 reactions. The Chemkin software with the detailed mechanism was utilized to calculate the effect of syngas addition on the combustion characteristics of diesel combustion. The findings showed that the addition of syngas could reduce the ignition delay time and increase the laminar flame speed. Based on the reduced mechanism and engine parameters, a 3D model of the engine was constructed with the Forte code. The 3D model was adopted to study the effect of syngas addition on the performance and exhaust emissions of the engine and the relevant data of the experiment was used in the calibration of the 3D model.
A New Approach for Mobile Advertising Click-Through Rate Estimation Based on Deep Belief Nets
Authors: Chen Jie-Hao , Zhao Zi-Qian , Shi Ji-Yun , Zhao Chong
Published: October 2017

In recent years, with the rapid development of mobile Internet and its business applications, mobile advertising Click-Through Rate (CTR) estimation has become a hot research direction in the field of computational advertising, which is used to achieve accurate advertisement delivery for the best benefits in the three-side game between media, advertisers, and audiences. Current research on the estimation of CTR mainly uses the methods and models of machine learning, such as linear model or recommendation algorithms. However, most of these methods are insufficient to extract the data features and cannot reflect the nonlinear relationship between different features. In order to solve these problems, we propose a new model based on Deep Belief Nets to predict the CTR of mobile advertising, which combines together the powerful data representation and feature extraction capability of Deep Belief Nets, with the advantage of simplicity of traditional Logistic Regression models. Based on the training dataset with the information of over 40 million mobile advertisements during a period of 10 days, our experiments show that our new model has better estimation accuracy than the classic Logistic Regression (LR) model by 5.57% and Support Vector Regression (SVR) model by 5.80%.
Shielding Verifications for a Gamma Irradiation Facility Considering the Installation of a New Automatic Product Loading System
Authors: Rodriguez Gual Maritza , Mesquita Amir Zacarias , Ribeiro Edson , Grossi Pablo Andrade
Published: October 2017

A new system has been designed to automatically load the samples to be irradiated at the gamma irradiation facility of the Nuclear Technology Development Centre (CDTN) at Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The objective of this system is the optimization of the experiments performed at the Gamma Irradiation Laboratory for short-time irradiations without interruption of the irradiator cycles. The installation of this new system requires the opening of a hole at the labyrinth door to allow the loading of irradiating products. Due to this alteration on the original design, the door opening into the labyrinth requires shielding verification. The dose rate with the door open is calculated using Monte Carlo MCNPX v 2.6.0 code. The Monte Carlo source simulations were validated with experimental measurements of dose rate. The simulation demonstrated that a hole can be opened at the labyrinth entrance when installing an automatic loading system. Not only does it comply with dose constraint requirements, but it also complies with national and international standards.
Genetic Algorithm for Traveling Salesman Problem with Modified Cycle Crossover Operator
Authors: Hussain Abid , Muhammad Yousaf Shad , Nauman Sajid M. , Hussain Ijaz , Mohamd Shoukry Alaa , Gani Showkat
Published: October 2017

Genetic algorithms are evolutionary techniques used for optimization purposes according to survival of the fittest idea. These methods do not ensure optimal solutions; however, they give good approximation usually in time. The genetic algorithms are useful for NP-hard problems, especially the traveling salesman problem. The genetic algorithm depends on selection criteria, crossover, and mutation operators. To tackle the traveling salesman problem using genetic algorithms, there are various representations such as binary, path, adjacency, ordinal, and matrix representations. In this article, we propose a new crossover operator for traveling salesman problem to minimize the total distance. This approach has been linked with path representation, which is the most natural way to represent a legal tour. Computational results are also reported with some traditional path representation methods like partially mapped and order crossovers along with new cycle crossover operator for some benchmark TSPLIB instances and found improvements.
Assessment of RELAP/SCDAPSIM/MOD3.4 Prediction Capability with Severe Fuel Damage Scoping Test
Authors: Rattanadecho Noppawan , Rassame Somboon , Silva Kampanart , Allison Chris , Hohorst Judith
Published: October 2017

The Power Burst Facility (PBF) was designed to provide experimental data to determine the thresholds for failure during accident conditions. Thus, the PBF benchmark using severe accidental analysis codes is essential to designing reactor for current directions. This assessment verified and validated that the RELAP/SCDAPSIM/MOD3.4 code can be used to assess the Severe Fuel Damage Scoping Test (SFD-ST) performed in the PBF facility. This study compares the cladding temperatures and hydrogen production results calculated by the RELAP/SCDAPSIM/MOD3.4 code with experimental data and calculated results from the SCDAP/RELAP5/MOD3.2 and SCDAP/RELAP5/MOD3.3 codes. The interested parameters are cladding temperature and hydrogen production since the cladding temperature affects hydrogen production and consequently influences the accident scenario. The calculated cladding temperatures and hydrogen production results from the RELAP/SCDAPSIM/MOD3.4 code are in a good agreement with the experimental data and are generally more reasonable than the calculated results from the SCDAP/RELAP5/MOD3.2 and SCDAP/RELAP5/MOD3.3 codes. There are some discrepancies in the cladding temperature and hydrogen production results but they are expected.
Experimental Study on Sedimentary Rock’s Dynamic Characteristics under Creep State Using a New Type of Testing Equipment
Authors: Huang Wanpeng , Xing Wenbin , Chen Shaojie , Liu Yang , Wu Kai
Published: October 2017

Under high stress, rock in the creep state is vulnerable to external impact load, causing the irreversible perturbation deformation of rock or even sudden failure. To explore the dynamic characteristics of sedimentary rock in the creep state, a siltstone specimen was experimentally studied using a new type of experimental system for rock creep perturbation. Compared to the currently available equipment for studying rock dynamics, this new type of experimental system provides a long-term and stable high static stress to maintain the creep state of rock specimen. This is independent of power supply because it provides static stress by gravity load. Moreover, the equipment provides a dynamic impact load through the free fall of impact weights. This study shows that the perturbation deformation of sedimentary rock increased in two stages: decay phase and sustained development phase. When the static stress reached up to ~85% of the rock’s ultimate strength and the axial strain reached up to 80% of the ultimate failure strain, the rock became sensitive to impact load. This static stress level is basically the same as its long-term strength. With increasing impact strength, the increment curve of the rock creep perturbation deformation was transformed from the decay phase to the sustained development phase in advance, making the rock sensitive to external perturbation at a low static loading stress level.
Predictive Abuse Detection for a PLC Smart Lighting Network Based on Automatically Created Models of Exponential Smoothing
Authors: Andrysiak Tomasz , Saganowski Łukasz , Kiedrowski Piotr
Published: October 2017

One of the basic elements of a Smart City is the urban infrastructure management system, in particular, systems of intelligent street lighting control. However, for their reliable operation, they require special care for the safety of their critical communication infrastructure. This article presents solutions for the detection of different kinds of abuses in network traffic of Smart Lighting infrastructure, realized by Power Line Communication technology. Both the structure of the examined Smart Lighting network and its elements are described. The article discusses the key security problems which have a direct impact on the correct performance of the Smart Lighting critical infrastructure. In order to detect an anomaly/attack, we proposed the usage of a statistical model to obtain forecasting intervals. Then, we calculated the value of the differences between the forecast in the estimated traffic model and its real variability so as to detect abnormal behavior (which may be symptomatic of an abuse attempt). Due to the possibility of appearance of significant fluctuations in the real network traffic, we proposed a procedure of statistical models update which is based on the criterion of interquartile spacing. The results obtained during the experiments confirmed the effectiveness of the presented misuse detection method.
Relativistic Localizing Processes Bespeak an Inevitable Projective Geometry of Spacetime
Authors: Rubin Jacques L.
Published: October 2017

Surprisingly, the issue of events localization in spacetime is poorly understood and a fortiori realized even in the context of Einstein’s relativity. Accordingly, a comparison between observational data and theoretical expectations might then be strongly compromised. In the present paper, we give the principles of relativistic localizing systems so as to bypass this issue. Such systems will allow locating users endowed with receivers and, in addition, localizing any spacetime event. These localizing systems are made up of relativistic autolocating positioning subsystems supplemented by an extra satellite. They indicate that spacetime must be supplied everywhere with an unexpected local four-dimensional projective structure besides the well-known three-dimensional relativistic projective one. As a result, the spacetime manifold can be seen as a generalized Cartan space modeled on a four-dimensional real projective space, that is, a spacetime with both a local four-dimensional projective structure and a compatible (pseudo-)Riemannian structure. Localization protocols are presented in detail, while possible applications to astrophysics are also considered.
Uncertainty and Sensitivity Analysis of Void Reactivity Feedback for 3D BWR Assembly Model
Authors: Slavickas Andrius , Pabarčius Raimondas , Tonkūnas Aurimas , Ušpuras Eugenijus
Published: October 2017

Uncertainty and sensitivity analysis of void reactivity feedback for 3D BWR fuel assembly model is presented in this paper. Uncertainties in basic input data, such as the selection of different cross section library, manufacturing uncertainties in material compositions, and geometrical dimensions, as well as operating data are considered. An extensive modelling of different input data realizations associated with their uncertainties was performed during sensitivity analysis. The propagation of uncertainties was analyzed using the statistical approach. The results revealed that important information on the code predictions can be obtained by analyzing and comparing the codes estimations and their associated uncertainties.
Tumor Microvessel Density as a Prognostic Marker in High-Risk Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients Treated on ECOG-ACRIN E2805
Authors: Jilaveanu Lucia B. , Puligandla Maneka , Weiss Sarah A. , Wang Xin Victoria , Zito Christopher , Flaherty Keith T. , Boeke Marta , Neumeister Veronique , Camp Robert L. , Adeniran Adebowale , Pins Michael , Manola Judith , DiPaola Robert S. , Haas Naomi B. , Kluger Harriet M.
Published: October 2017

Purpose: Increased vascularity is a hallmark of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Microvessel density (MVD) is one measurement of tumor angiogenesis; however, its utility as a biomarker of outcome is unknown. ECOG-ACRIN 2805 (E2805) enrolled 1,943 resected high-risk RCC patients randomized to adjuvant sunitinib, sorafenib, or placebo. We aimed to determine the prognostic and predictive role of MVD in RCC.

Experimental Design: We obtained pretreatment primary RCC nephrectomy tissues from 822 patients on E2805 and constructed tissue microarrays. Using quantitative immunofluorescence, we measured tumor MVD as the area of CD34-expressing cells. We determined the association with disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), treatment arm, and clinicopathologic variables.

Results: High MVD (above the median) was associated with prolonged OS for the entire cohort (P = 0.021) and for patients treated with placebo (P = 0.028). The association between high MVD and OS was weaker in patients treated with sunitinib or sorafenib (P = 0.060). MVD was not associated with DFS (P = 1.00). On multivariable analysis, MVD remained independently associated with improved OS (P = 0.013). High MVD correlated with Fuhrman grade 1–2 (P < 0.001), clear cell histology (P < 0.001), and absence of necrosis (P < 0.001) but not with gender, age, sarcomatoid features, lymphovascular invasion, or tumor size.

Conclusions: High MVD in resected high-risk RCC patients is an independent prognostic, rather than predictive, biomarker of improved OS. Further studies should assess whether incorporating MVD into clinical models will enhance our ability to predict outcome and if low MVD can be used for selection of high-risk patients for adjuvant therapy trials. Clin Cancer Res; 24(1); 217–23. ©2017 AACR.
Diagnosis of Inherited Epidermolysis Bullosa in Resource-Limited Settings: Immunohistochemistry Revisited
Authors: Yenamandra Vamsi Krishna , Bhari Neetu , Ray Subrata Basu , Sreenivas Vishnubhatla , Dinda Amit Kumar , Scaria Vinod , Sharma Vinod Kumar , Sethuraman Gomathy
Published: October 2017

Background: Immunofluorescence (IFM) antigen mapping is the most commonly used technique to diagnose and differentiate epidermolysis bullosa (EB). In India, IFM is limited to few research laboratories and is not readily available, making the diagnosis largely clinical and often inaccurate. Ob jective of the Study: To examine the diagnostic usefulness of immunohistochemistry (IHC) as compared to IFM in resource-limited settings. Methods: Forty-four consecutive EB patients were included in this study. IHC and IFM were performed on 7-µm frozen tissue sections using standard laboratory protocols with a limited panel of antibodies. The kappa coefficient of agreement was calculated with genetic analysis as the gold standard. Results: IFM and IHC accurately identified the subtype of EB in 80.9% (p < 0.001) of the cases, when a clear blister cavity was evident on biopsy. The sensitivities and specificities of IHC and IFM for diagnosing EB simplex, junctional EB, and dystrophic EB were 100, 100, and 60% and 82.4, 100, and 100%, respectively. IHC was equally effective (p < 0.001) in establishing the type of EB as IFM. Conclusions: IHC staining and its interpretation were simple and comparable to IFM. IHC had an advantage of showing subtle changes in the epidermal architecture that could not be appreciated on IFM and hence can be considered useful in resource-limited settings.
DNAJB1/HSP40 Suppresses Melanoma Differentiation-Associated Gene 5-Mitochondrial Antiviral Signaling Protein Function in Conjunction with HSP70
Authors: Takashima Ken , Oshiumi Hiroyuki , Matsumoto Misako , Seya Tsukasa
Published: October 2017

Melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) is a pattern recognition receptor that recognizes cytoplasmic viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and initiates rapid innate antiviral responses. MDA5 forms a filament-like multimer along the dsRNA leading to oligomerization, which in turn activates the adaptor protein mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS) to provide a signal platform for the induction of type I interferon (IFN) and proinflammatory cytokines. The conformational switch of MDA5 causes antiviral defense, but excessive activation of the MDA5-MAVS pathway may result in autoimmune diseases. The regulatory mechanisms of MDA5 activation remain largely unknown. By yeast 2-hybrid, we identified DNAJB1, a member of the HSP40 (heat shock protein 40) family, as an MDA5-binding protein. HSP40s usually cowork with HSP70s. We found that dsRNA stimulation with physiological conditions upregulated the expression levels of DNAJB1 and HSP70; then the proteins were coupled and translocated into the stress granules, where MDA5 encounters dsRNA. DNAJB1 disrupted MDA5 multimer formation, resulting in the suppression of type I IFN induction. The disruption of endogenous DNAJB1 increased MDA5- and MAVS-mediated IFN promoter activation and rendered cells virus resistant. HSP70 inhibitor also enhanced the IFN-inducing function of MDA5 and MAVS. These results suggest that the DNAJB1-HSP70 complex functions for the natural maintenance of RNA sensing by interacting with MDA5/MAVS.
Variability in Systemic Treatment Efficacy for Onychomycosis: Information That Clinical Studies Do Not Impart to the Office Dermatologist
Authors: Shemer Avner , Daniel Ralph , Rigopoulos Dimitris , Farhi Renata , Babaev Meir
Published: October 2017

Wide differences in the cure rates of onychomycosis in various clinical studies can be avoided if we bear in mind some insights that will help us make study results more consistent. We suggest less rigid criteria in defining the cure rate, the inclusion of all toenails in studies, and the exclusion of nails with a history of trauma. Rather than address patients as a homogenous group, regardless of age, we suggest dividing them into age groups. Researchers should not forget inflammatory diseases that can imply changes on the nails and should take into account the duration of onychomycosis, nail changes caused by asymmetry, and the possibility of dermatophytoma.
‘Repair’ Treg Cells in Tissue Injury
Authors: Zhang Chaoqi , Li Lifeng , Feng Kexin , Fan Daoyang , Xue Wenhua , Lu Jingli
Published: October 2017

Studies in mice and humans have elucidated an important role for Tregs in promoting tissue repair and restoring tissue integrity. Emerging evidence has revealed that Tregs promoted wound healing and repair processes at multiple tissue sites, such as the heart, liver, kidney, muscle, lung, bone and central nervous system. The localization of repair Tregs in the lung, muscle and liver exhibited unique phenotypes and functions. Epidermal growth factor receptor, amphiregulin, CD73/CD39 and keratinocyte growth factor are important repair factors that are produced or expressed by repair Tregs; these factors coordinate with parenchymal cells to limit injury and promote repair. In addition, repair Tregs can be modulated by IL-33/ST2, TCR signals and other cytokines in the context of injured microenvironment cues. In this review, we provide an overview of the emerging knowledge about Treg-mediated repair in damaged tissues and organs.
Changes in Statin Adherence Following an Acute Myocardial Infarction Among Older Adults: Patient Predictors and the Association With Follow‐Up With Primary Care Providers and/or Cardiologists
Authors: Hickson Ryan P. , Robinson Jennifer G. , Annis Izabela E. , Killeya‐Jones Ley A. , Korhonen Maarit Jaana , Cole Ashley L. , Fang Gang
Published: October 2017

Background

Hospitalizations for acute myocardial infarctions (
AMI
s) are associated with changes in statin adherence. It is unclear to what extent adherence changes, which patients are likely to change, and how post‐discharge follow‐up is associated with statin adherence change.

Methods and Results

This retrospective study used Medicare data for all fee‐for‐service beneficiaries 66 years and older with an
AMI
hospitalization in 2008–2010 and statin use before their index
AMI
. Multivariable multinomial logistic regression models (odds ratio [
OR
] and 99% confidence interval [
CI
]) were applied to assess associations between both patient characteristics and follow‐up with a primary care provider and/or cardiologist with the outcome of statin adherence change (increase or decrease) from the 6‐month pre‐ to 6‐month post‐
AMI
periods. Of 113 296 patients, 64.0% had no change in adherence, while 19.7% had increased and 16.3% had decreased adherence after
AMI
hospitalization. Black and Hispanic patients were more likely to have either increased or decreased adherence than white patients. Patients who required coronary artery bypass graft surgery (
OR
, 1.34; 99%
CI,
1.21–1.49) or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty/stent procedure (
OR,
1.25; 99%
CI
, 1.17–1.32) during their index hospitalization were more likely to have increased adherence. Follow‐up with a primary care provider was only mildly associated with increased adherence (
OR
, 1.08; 99%
CI
, 1.00–1.16), while follow‐up with a cardiologist (OR, 1.15; 99%
CI
, 1.05–1.25) or both provider types (
OR
, 1.21; 99%
CI
, 1.12–1.30) had stronger associations with increased adherence.

Conclusions

Post‐
AMI
changes in statin adherence varied by patient characteristics, and improved adherence was associated with post‐discharge follow‐up care, particularly with a cardiologist or both a primary care provider and a cardiologist.
Kurdish Women in Rojava: From Resistance to Reconstruction
Authors: Tank Pinar
Published: October 2017

In 2010, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (Partiya Karkeren Kurdistan, PKK), Abdullah Öcalan, declared, “The freedom of the Kurdish people can be viewed as inseparably bound to women’s freedom.”1 This statement emphasizes a core tenet in the reinvention of the PKK’s ideology as articulated by Öcalan: the understanding that freedom can only be achieved through the defeat of the patriarchal system. The women of the PKK and its sister organization, the Democratic Union Party (Partiya Yekîtiya Demokrat, PYD), represent the embodiment of the PKK’s new ideology, attracting international attention following Kurdish efforts to establish an autonomous region of governance in north-east Syria. This article focuses on a case study of the PYD’s Syrian Kurdish Women’s Protection Units (Yekîneyên Parastina Jin, YPJ), and their defence of Kurdish-dominated enclaves in Syria. The analysis demonstrates the agency behind their engagement and the ideology that motivates their resistance to patriarchy in the Middle East. In so doing, the article compares the YPJ’s understanding of agency to media representations of YPJ fighters’ engagement, in an effort to see beyond the traditional victim/peacemaker articulation of gendered engagement, arguing instead for the need to recognize the politics behind Kurdish women’s participation as combatants in the Syrian civil war.
Limitations of a Purely Salvation-historical Approach to Biblical Theology
Authors: Lockett Darian
Published: October 2017

A salvation-historical approach to biblical theology emphasizes the historical and progressive nature of revelation such that the Bible’s primary meaning is (too often) reduced to its reference to the sequential events of a special (salvation) history. After offering a general description of the development of the salvation-historical approach to biblical theology, the essay considers the representative example of D. A. Carson. Then, noting the criticisms of Hans Frei, Karl Barth, and Brevard Childs, the paper argues that limiting one’s biblical theology to a salvation-historical approach replaces Christ as the subject matter of both Testaments with “the temporally distinct and ordered stages of the history of salvation.” Although the insights of a redemptive-historical biblical theology are important, when taken as the exclusive methodology for biblical theology it risks flattening the relationship between the two Testaments and missing Scripture’s theological subject matter.
Out-of-Cloud Convective Turbulence: Estimation Method and Impacts of Model Resolution
Authors: Barber Katelyn A. , Mullendore Gretchen L. , Alexander M. Joan
Published: October 2017

Convectively induced turbulence (CIT) poses both a serious threat to aviation operations and a challenge to forecasting applications. CIT generation and propagation processes occur on scales between 10 and 1000 m and therefore are best treated with high-resolution cloud-resolving models. However, high-resolution model simulations are computationally expensive, limiting their operational use. In this study, summertime convection in the North Dakota region is simulated over a 1-week period using a variety of model setups that are similar to those utilized in operational and research applications. Eddy dissipation rate and Ellrod index, both popular turbulence metrics, are evaluated across various model resolutions and compared with pilot reports from aircraft. The Ellrod index was found to be extremely sensitive to model resolution and overestimated turbulence intensity. The variability of turbulence values with respect to model resolution and distance away from convection is also examined. Turbulence probability was found to be the greatest when farther than 20 mi (32.2 km) away from convective cores. Model resolution was found to influence the intensity of predicted turbulence, and the model setup with the highest horizontal and vertical resolution predicted the highest turbulence values. However, the influence on turbulence intensity of vertical resolution and convective properties, such as storm depth, was found to be minimal for 3-km horizontal grid spacing.
The Opportunities and Needs of Water Utility Professionals as Community Climate–Water Leaders
Authors: Raucher Karen , Raucher Robert , Ozekin Kenan , Wegner Kristin
Published: October 2017

Community water is a key place Americans will personally experience climate change. A 2013 nationally representative survey found that 92% of Americans want their community water provider to be a leader in preparing their community for climate change, and that community water providers are highly trusted sources for climate information. These findings place water utility professionals on the front line of climate response. A 2016 follow-up survey asked approximately 250 water professionals if and where they are using climate projection and assessment information, what analytic techniques they use where climate information is an input, what are their primary climate information sources, and whether they have the education and support materials needed to gather, use, and share climate information in complex decision making across job responsibilities and with external audiences. Survey findings include that over half of respondents are using climate projection and assessment information today and almost a quarter more will be using it in the next 5 years; use occurs in a wide range of job responsibilities; over 70% of respondents want to be a leader/team player in applying or sharing climate information; and over half of respondents self-identify the need for additional educational, training, and support materials. The survey findings provide a data-based contribution to understanding the opportunities and needs of water professionals as they prepare their communities for changes in the climate and water.