bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with polypharmacy in primary care: a cross-sectional analysis of data from The English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA)
Authors: Slater Natasha , White Simon , Venables Rebecca , Frisher Martin
Published: March 2018

Objectives

While older age and ill health are known to be associated with polypharmacy, this paper aims to identify whether wealth, body mass index (BMI), smoking and alcohol consumption are also associated with polypharmacy (5–9 prescribed medications) and hyperpolypharmacy prevalence (≥10 prescribed medications), among older people living in England.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

The English Longitudinal Study of Ageing Wave 6 (2012–2013).

Participants

7730 participants aged over 50 years.

Data synthesis

Two multivariate models were created. HR with corresponding 95% CI, for polypharmacy and hyperpolypharmacy, were calculated after adjusting for gender, age, wealth, smoking, alcohol consumption, BMI, self-rated health and the presence of a chronic health condition.

Results

Lower wealth (lowest wealth quintile vs highest wealth quintile, adjusted HR 1.28; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.69, P=0.02) and obesity (adjusted HR 1.81; 95% CI 1.53 to 2.15, p<0.01) were significantly associated with polypharmacy. Increasing age (50–59 years vs 70–79 years, adjusted HR 3.42; 95% CI 2.81 to 4.77, p<0.01) and the presence of a chronic health condition (adjusted HR 2.94; 95% CI 2.55 to 3.39, p<0.01) were also associated with polypharmacy. No statistically significant association between smoking and polypharmacy (adjusted HR 1.06; 95% CI 0.86 to 1.29, P=0.56) was established; while, very frequent alcohol consumption (consuming alcohol >5 times per week) was inversely associated with polypharmacy (never drank alcohol vs very frequently, adjusted HR 0.64; 95% CI 0.52 to 0.78, p<0.01). The adjusted HR for hyperpolypharmacy was accentuated, compared with polypharmacy.

Conclusion

This study has identified that lower wealth, obesity, increasing age and chronic health conditions are significantly associated with polypharmacy and hyperpolypharmacy prevalence. The effect of these factors, on polypharmacy and especially hyperpolypharmacy prevalence, is likely to become more pronounced with the widening gap in UK wealth inequalities, the current obesity epidemic and the growing population of older people. The alcohol findings contribute to the debate on the relationship between alcohol consumption and health.
Does modifying the timing of meal intake improve cardiovascular risk factors? Protocol of an Australian pilot intervention in night shift workers with abdominal obesity
Authors: Bonham Maxine P , Leung Gloria K W , Davis Rochelle , Sletten Tracey L , Murgia Chiara , Young Morag J , Eikelis Nina , Lambert Elisabeth A , Huggins Catherine E
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Shift work is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Shift workers who are awake overnight and sleep during the day are misaligned with their body’s endogenous circadian rhythm. Eating at night contributes to this increased risk of CVD by forcing the body to actively break down and process nutrients at night. This pilot study aims to determine whether altering meal timing overnight, in a shift working population, will impact favourably on modifiable risk factors for CVD (postprandial bplasma lipids and glucose concentration).

Methods and analysis

A randomised cross-over study with two 4-week test periods, separated by a minimum of a 2-week washout will be undertaken. The effectiveness of redistributing energy intake overnight versusad libitumeating patterns on CVD risk factors will be examined in night shift workers (n=20), using a standard acute test meal challenge protocol. Primary outcomes (postprandial lipids and glucose) will be compared between the two conditions: post-intervention and post-control period using analysis of variance. Potential effect size estimates to inform sample size calculations for a main trial will also be generated.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been granted by the Monash University Human Research Ethics Committee (2017-8619-10329). Outcomes from this study will determine whether eliminating food intake for a defined period at night (1–6 am) impacts favourably on metabolic risk factors for CVD in night shift workers. Collective results from this novel trial will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, and national and international presentations. The results are essential to inform health promotion policies and guidelines for shift workers, especially those who aim to improve their metabolic health.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12617000791336; Pre-results.
Pharmacists detecting atrial fibrillation (PDAF) in primary care during the influenza vaccination season: a multisite, cross-sectional screening protocol
Authors: Veale Emma L , Stewart Adrian J , Mathie Alistair , Lall Satvinder K , Rees-Roberts Melanie , Savickas Vilius , Bhamra Sukvinder K , Corlett Sarah A
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects >6% of people aged 65 years or older. Left undetected and untreated, patients may develop significant cardiovascular complications and have a fivefold increased risk of suffering a stroke. For 40% of all sufferers, AF can be asymptomatic. Every year in the UK, £2.2 billion is spent on AF-related strokes, so there is an urgent need to improve early detection of AF. This study aims to determine the feasibility of using trained clinical pharmacists based in general practices, to screen for AF, using pulse palpation and a single-lead ECG device on participants aged 65 years or older, attending influenza vaccination clinics.

Methods and analysis

Seven clinical pharmacists will be trained by a cardiologist to pulse palpate and record single-lead ECGs using the AliveCor Kardia Mobile device. Quantitative analysis will assess the accuracy and ability of the clinical pharmacist to identify pulse irregularities using pulse palpation and to record and interpret a single-lead ECG. The level of agreement of pulse irregularities detected by pulse palpation will be compared with those detected by the single-lead ECG device, as will the level of agreement between the cardiologist and the device’s interpretation of the ECG. The proportion of people identified with AF (confirmed by the cardiologist) will be determined. Additional demographic data will be obtained from all participants through a questionnaire. Qualitative data will be captured from the participants, from the clinical pharmacists and from the general practitioners and practice staff to determine their views on this method of AF screening. We aim to recruit 600 participants across general practices within Kent.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved by the London–Riverside Research Ethics committee. The findings of this study will be disseminated through forums including, but not limited to, peer-reviewed journals, national and international conferences.
Reducing the number of invalid surgical consents in the day surgery unit
Authors: Chong Wesley , Fong Allan Chee Yang , Yeo Yi Lin , Ng Angie Puay Hong , Neo Eileen May Lin , Sam Veronica Li Ee , Ong Jessica Kai Jun , Huey Peng Loh
Published: March 2018

Aim

To reduce the number of invalid surgical consents in the Singapore National Eye Centre Day Surgery Unit over a period of 6 months.

Methodology

A multidisciplinary team involving doctors, nurses, day surgery unit, operating theatre, listing and clinical audit staff looked into the listing process and the root causes of the high number of invalid consents. A Pareto chart detailing the top causes of invalid consents was drawn, and with a prioritisation matrix, feasible yet effective changes were identified and effected. Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles included moving consent checks upstream, getting invalid consents amended on the same day, sending emails to raise awareness on invalid consents and posters in clinics to emphasise the correct way to fill up consent forms.

Result

There has been a progressive downtrend in the monthly mean percentage of invalid consents since the introduction of PDSA cycles. There was a significant reduction in the mean rate of rejected consents from the preintervention phase of 15.2% to the postintervention phase of 11.3%, shown with a Z score of 6.56 (P<0.05). Sustainability was also demonstrated with multiple consecutive points below the median of 14.5% on the postimplementation phase of the run chart, with estimated time-efficiency savings of USD$19 738.50 annually.

Conclusion

Errors in the workplace can be reduced with a concerted effort from multiple stakeholders. It is important to have a thorough look at processes with concerned parties, so that different perspectives and skill sets can be harnessed to determine and implement feasible and effective interventions.
Realist synthesis of intentional rounding in hospital wards: exploring the evidence of what works, for whom, in what circumstances and why
Authors: Sims Sarah , Leamy Mary , Davies Nigel , Schnitzler Katy , Levenson Ros , Mayer Felicity , Grant Robert , Brearley Sally , Gourlay Stephen , Ross Fiona , Harris Ruth
Published: March 2018

Background

Intentional rounding (IR) is a structured process whereby nurses conduct one to two hourly checks with every patient using a standardised protocol.

Objective

A realist synthesis of the evidence on IR was undertaken to develop IR programme theories of what works, for whom, in what circumstances and why.

Methods

A three-stage literature search and a stakeholder consultation event was completed. A variety of sources were searched, including AMED, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, HMIC, Google and Google Scholar, for published and unpublished literature. In line with realist synthesis methodology, each study’s ‘fitness for purpose’ was assessed by considering its relevance and rigour.

Results

A total of 44 papers met the inclusion criteria. To make the programme theories underpinning IR explicit, we identified eight a priori propositions: (1) when implemented in a comprehensive and consistent way, IR improves healthcare quality and satisfaction, and reduces potential harms; (2) embedding IR into daily routine practice gives nurses ‘allocated time to care’; (3) documenting IR checks increases accountability and raises fundamental standards of care; (4) when workload and staffing levels permit, more frequent nurse–patient contact improves relationships and increases awareness of patient comfort and safety needs; (5) increasing time when nurses are in the direct vicinity of patients promotes vigilance, provides reassurance and reduces potential harms; (6) more frequent nurse–patient contact enables nurses to anticipate patient needs and take pre-emptive action; (7) IR documentation facilitates teamwork and communication; and (8) IR empowers patients to ask for what they need to maintain their comfort and well-being. Given the limited evidence base, further research is needed to test and further refine these propositions.

Conclusions

Despite widespread use of IR, this paper highlights the paradox that there is ambiguity surrounding its purpose and limited evidence of how it works in practice.
Porphyria: often discussed but too often missed
Authors: O’Malley Ronan , Rao Ganesh , Stein Penelope , Bandmann Oliver
Published: March 2018

The diagnosis of acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is often overlooked. We describe a patient with this condition who had all the ‘bells and whistles’, in whom the diagnosis was only made after considerable delay. Far from an esoteric condition haunting examination candidates, AIP is an important cause of a broad spectrum of neurological symptoms. Its early recognition allows the astute clinician to prevent potentially devastating sequelae. We provide practical guidance on the investigation and management of this complex disorder. With a ‘back to basics’ approach to the underlying genetics and biochemistry, we hope to dispel some of the confusion that may obstruct a timely diagnosis.
On the number of bound states of semirelativistic Hamiltonian with Dirac delta potentials in one dimension
Authors: Erman Fatih
Published: March 2018

We study the bound state problem for semirelativistic N attractive Dirac δ-potentials in one dimension. We give a sufficient condition for the Hamiltonian to have N bound states and give an explicit criterion for it.
Electromagnetic density of modes in one-dimensional photonic crystals containing dispersive metamaterials
Authors: Sharma Y. , Shukla S. , Aman A. , Prasad S. , Singh V.
Published: March 2018

The electromagnetic density of modes (DOM) in a finite one-dimensional photonic crystal containing dispersive metamaterials is computed using Wigner’s time approach. The expression of DOM is derived using the transfer matrix method. Different structural parameters, such as relative thickness, incident angle, and total number of unit cells are varied and their effects are investigated. It is observed that relative thickness, angle of incidence, and total number of unit cells all play an important role in determining the properties of DOM depending on the frequency regime under consideration.
Possible ferromagnetism of dense quark matter
Authors: Pal Kausik
Published: March 2018

The cardinal focus of the present review is to investigate the possibility of the para-ferro phase transition of dense quark matter. For these, the calculation of the single-particle energies, ground state energy (GSE) densities, and spin susceptibility χ of degenerate quark matter with one gluon exchange interaction in terms of spin-dependent Landau parameters (LPs) have been presented. The expressions for the GSE and χ of cold and dense spin-polarized quark matter have been derived with corrections due to correlation. Furthermore, the magnetic properties of spin polarized quark matter have been discussed by evaluating the magnetization ⟨M⟩ and magnetic susceptibility χM in terms of LPs. Finally, the possibility of magnetic instability has been revealed by studying the density dependence of ⟨M⟩ and χM.
Renormalization group summation with heavy fields
Authors: McKeon D.G.C.
Published: March 2018

The summation of logarithmic contributions to perturbative radiative corrections in physical processes through use of the renormalization group equation has proved to be a useful way of enhancing the information one can obtain from explicit calculation. However, it has proved difficult to perform this summation when massive fields are present. In this work we point out that if the masses involved are quite large, the decoupling theorem of Symanzik and of Appelquist and Carazzone can be used to make the summation of logarithms possible.
IN PURSUIT OF UNDERSTANDING MARKUPS IN RESTAURANT SERVICES PRICES
Authors: ÖZMEN MUSTAFA UTKU
Published: March 2018

Measuring markups in restaurant services is a difficult task. Although the sales price is observed, cost of the product served is unobserved. In this study, we employ an intuitive framework and focus specifically on markups on soft drinks. We analyze the determinants of markup on soft drinks in restaurants over 2006–2014. Results suggest that current demand conditions (net minimum wage, output gap), major cost items (food and energy prices, exchange rate) and economic uncertainty (exchange rate volatility) significantly affect markups. This strategy enables the detection of relevant factors which may not be possible to detect in other settings.
Pyramid Search: Skip Ring Data Structure-Based New Searching Algorithm
Authors: Aksu Mustafa , Karcı Ali
Published: March 2018

Our new algorithm and data structure, pyramid search (PS) and skip ring, were created with the help of circular linked list and skip list algorithms and data structures. In circular linked list, operations were performed on a single circular list. Our new data structure consists of circular linked lists formed in layers which were linked in a pyramid way. Time complexity of searching, insertion and deletion algorithms equal to [Formula: see text] (lg[Formula: see text]) in an [Formula: see text]-element skip ring data structure. Therefore, skip ring data structure is employed more effectively ([Formula: see text](lg[Formula: see text])) in circumstances where circular linked lists ([Formula: see text]) are used. The priority is determined based on the searching frequency in PS which was developed in this study. Thus, the time complexity of searching is almost [Formula: see text](1) for [Formula: see text] records data set. In this paper, the applications of searching algorithms like linear search (LS), binary search (BS) and PS were realized and the obtained results were compared. The obtained results demonstrated that the PS algorithm is superior to the BS algorithm.
Design of a Reliable Cache System for Heterogeneous CMPs
Authors: Chakraborty Bidesh , Dalui Mamata , Sikdar Biplab K.
Published: March 2018

The embedded system-on-a-chip (SoC), that integrates heterogeneous processors with variation in coherence protocol, adds complexity in maintaining coherency in the data caches. It further complicates the task of coherence verification in such systems. This work targets effective solution for coherence verification in heterogeneous chip multiprocessors (CMPs) through introduction of highly efficient verification unit. It is developed around the modeling tool of cellular automaton (CA) invented by von Neumann in 1950s. The modular and cascadable structure of CA ensures high scalability and robustness in the proposed design. A CA segment is employed to analyze the states of a data block in different private caches of a heterogeneous processor cluster and to verify inconsistencies, if any, within the cluster. The outcomes of coherence verification for clusters are analyzed by the CA resulted out of augmentation of the CA segments. On the other hand, in this work, we further propose a CA-based coherence protocol processor (PP), which caters the need for determining the state of a data block with high accuracy. The PP designed for the heterogeneous CMPs, while computing the states of za block on every transaction (read/write), can capture defects, if any, and thereby realizes a fault-tolerant PP without introduction of additional hardware logic.
A Novel Voltage-Programmed Pixel Circuit with Poly-Si TFTs for AMOLED Displays
Authors: Huang Zunkai , Tian Li , Wang Hui , Feng Songlin
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we propose a novel voltage-programmed pixel circuit with polysilicon thin–flim transistors (poly-Si TFTs) for active matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) displays, which consists of one programming transistor, one driving transistor, four switching transistors and two storage capacitors, respectively. Specifically, the proposed pixel circuit is able to not only efficiently compensate for the threshold variations of TFTs, but also largely suppresses the electrical degradations of the devices caused by the long-term electrical stress. Moreover, the mobility variation of the driving transistor can be compensated as well. The simulation has been performed by HSPICE, and results indicate that the average values of nonuniformities are, respectively, 7.3% as the threshold-voltage varies by [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]V and 2.1%, as the mobility of the driving transistor varies by [Formula: see text]%, both of which are much lower than that of the conventional two-transistor and one-capacitor (2T1C) pixel. Furthermore, since the OLED is reverse-biased during the nonemission phases, the lifetime of OLED will be extended naturally. As a consequence, the proposed pixel circuit can substantially improve the display performance.
RNS-to-Binary Converters for New Three-Moduli Sets {2k−3, 2k−2, 2k−1} and {2k+1, 2k+2, 2k+3}
Authors: Phalguna P. S. , Kamat Dattaguru V. , Ananda Mohan P. V.
Published: March 2018

In this paper, mixed radix conversion (MRC)-based residue number system (RNS)-to-binary converters for two new three-moduli sets {2[Formula: see text], 2[Formula: see text], 2[Formula: see text]} and {2[Formula: see text], 2[Formula: see text], 2[Formula: see text]} which are derived from the moduli set {2[Formula: see text], 2[Formula: see text], 2[Formula: see text]} are presented. These have the advantage of having one modulus of the form 2[Formula: see text] or 2[Formula: see text] simplifying computations in one residue channel. The proposed reverse converters are evaluated and compared with state-of-the-art reverse converters proposed in literature for other three-moduli sets regarding hardware requirement and conversion time.
Discontinuous Galerkin methods for a kinetic model of self-organized dynamics
Authors: Filbet Francis , Shu Chi-Wang
Published: March 2018

This paper deals with the numerical resolution of kinetic models for systems of self-propelled particles subject to alignment interaction and attraction–repulsion. We focus on the kinetic model considered in [P. Degond and S. Motsch, Continuum limit of self-driven particles with orientation interaction, Math. Models Methods Appl. Sci. 18 (2008) 1193–1215; P. Degond, J.-G. Liu, S. Motsch and V. Panferov, Hydrodynamic models of self-organized dynamics: Derivation and existence theory, Methods Appl. Anal. 20 (2013) 89–114] where alignment is taken into account in addition to an attraction–repulsion interaction potential. We apply a discontinuous Galerkin method for the free transport and non-local drift velocity together with a spectral method for the velocity variable. Then, we analyze consistency and stability of the semi-discrete scheme. We propose several numerical experiments which provide a solid validation of the method and illustrate its underlying concepts.
On the approximation of a virtual coarse space for domain decomposition methods in two dimensions
Authors: Calvo Juan G.
Published: March 2018

A new extension operator for a virtual coarse space is presented which can be used in domain decomposition methods for nodal elliptic problems in two dimensions. In particular, a two-level overlapping Schwarz algorithm is considered and a bound for the condition number of the preconditioned system is obtained. This bound is independent of discontinuities across the interface. The extension operator saves computational time compared to previous studies where discrete harmonic extensions are required and it is suitable for general polygonal meshes and irregular subdomains. Numerical experiments that verify the result are shown, including some with regular and irregular polygonal elements and with subdomains obtained by a mesh partitioner.
Cohesive fracture with irreversibility: Quasistatic evolution for a model subject to fatigue
Authors: Crismale Vito , Lazzaroni Giuliano , Orlando Gianluca
Published: March 2018

In this paper we prove the existence of quasistatic evolutions for a cohesive fracture on a prescribed crack surface, in small-strain antiplane elasticity. The main feature of the model is that the density of the energy dissipated in the fracture process depends on the total variation of the amplitude of the jump. Thus, any change in the crack opening entails a loss of energy, until the crack is complete. In particular this implies a fatigue phenomenon, i.e. a complete fracture may be produced by oscillation of small jumps. The first step of the existence proof is the construction of approximate evolutions obtained by solving discrete-time incremental minimum problems. The main difficulty in the passage to the continuous-time limit is that we lack of controls on the variations of the jump of the approximate evolutions. Therefore we resort to a weak formulation where the variation of the jump is replaced by a Young measure. Eventually, after proving the existence in this weak formulation, we improve the result by showing that the Young measure is concentrated on a function and coincides with the variation of the jump of the displacement.
Boundedness and large time behavior in a quasilinear chemotaxis model for tumor invasion
Authors: Li Dan , Mu Chunlai , Zheng Pan
Published: March 2018

This paper deals with the quasilinear chemotaxis system modeling tumor invasion [Formula: see text] under homogenous Neumann boundary conditions in a smoothly convex bounded domain [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a given function satisfying [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Here the matrix-valued function [Formula: see text] fulfills [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text] with some [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. It is shown that for all reasonably regular initial data, a corresponding initial-boundary value problem for this system possesses a globally defined weak solution under some assumptions. Based on this boundedness property, it can finally be proved that in the large time limit, any such solution approaches the spatially homogenous equilibrium [Formula: see text] in an appropriate sense, where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] provided that merely [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text]. To the best of our knowledge, there are the first results on boundedness and asymptotic behavior of the system.
Gauge invariant canonical cosmological perturbation theory with geometrical clocks in extended phase-space — A review and applications
Authors: Giesel Kristina , Herzog Adrian
Published: March 2018

The theory of cosmological perturbations is a well-elaborated field and has been successfully applied, e.g. to model the structure formation in our universe and the prediction of the power spectrum of the cosmic microwave background. To deal with the diffeomorphism invariance of general relativity, one generally introduces combinations of the metric and matter perturbations, which are gauge invariant up to the considered order in the perturbations. For linear cosmological perturbations, one works with the so-called Bardeen potentials widely used in this context. However, there exists no common procedure to construct gauge invariant quantities also for higher-order perturbations. Usually, one has to find new gauge invariant quantities independently for each order in perturbation theory. With the relational formalism introduced by Rovelli and further developed by Dittrich and Thiemann, it is in principle possible to calculate manifestly gauge invariant quantities, that is quantities that are gauge invariant up to arbitrary order once one has chosen a set of so-called reference fields, often also called clock fields. This article contains a review of the relational formalism and its application to canonical general relativity following the work of Garcia, Pons, Sundermeyer and Salisbury. As the starting point for our application of this formalism to cosmological perturbation theory, we also review the Hamiltonian formulation of the linearized theory for perturbations around FLRW spacetimes. The main aim of our work will be to identify clock fields in the context of the relational formalism that can be used to reconstruct quantities like the Bardeen potential as well as the Mukhanov–Sasaki variable. This requires a careful analysis of the canonical formulation in the extended ADM-phase-space where lapse and shift are treated as dynamical variables. The actual construction of such observables and further investigations thereof will be carried out in our companion paper.
Power-law plateau and inverse symmetric inflation
Authors: Jawad Abdul , Chaudhary Shahid
Published: March 2018

Warm generalized Chaplygin gas inflation is being studied by assuming power-law plateau and inverse symmetric potentials with standard scalar field model. We consider strong dissipative regime with generalized dissipative coefficient and extract the various inflationary parameters such as scalar power spectrum, spectral index, tensor-to-scalar ratio and running of spectral index. It is found that both inflationary potentials favor the strong dissipative regime. Also, we construct the [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] (running of spectral index versus spectral index) and [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] (tensor-to-scalar ratio versus spectral index) planes and found that the trajectories of these planes favor WMAP 7 [Formula: see text] WMAP 9 and latest Planck data.
A Meshfree Higher Order Mass Matrix Formulation for Structural Vibration Analysis
Authors: Wu Junchao , Wang Dongdong , Lin Zeng
Published: March 2018

An accurate meshfree formulation with higher order mass matrix is proposed for the structural vibration analysis with particular reference to the 1D rod and 2D membrane problems. Unlike the finite element analysis with an explicit mass matrix, the mass matrix of Galerkin meshfree formulation usually does not have an explicit expression due to the rational nature of meshfree shape functions. In order to develop a meshfree higher order mass matrix, a frequency error measure is derived by using the entries of general symmetric stiffness and mass matrices. The frequency error is then expressed as a series expansion of the nodal distance, in which the coefficients of each term are related to the meshfree stiffness and mass matrices. It is theoretically proved that the constant coefficient in the frequency error vanishes identically provided with the linear completeness condition, which does not rely on any specific form of the shape functions. Furthermore, a meshfree higher order mass matrix is developed through a linear combination of the consistent and lumped mass matrices, in which the optimal mass combination coefficient is attained via eliminating the lower order error terms. In particular, the proposed higher order mass matrix with Galerkin meshfree formulation achieves a fourth-order accuracy when the moving least squares or reproducing kernel (RK) meshfree approximation with linear basis function is employed; nonetheless, the conventional meshfree method only gives a second-order accuracy for the frequency computation. In the multidimensional formulation, the optimal mass combination coefficient is a function of the wave propagation angle so that the proposed accurate meshfree method is applicable to the computation of frequencies associated with any wave propagation direction. The superconvergence of the proposed meshfree higher order mass matrix formulation is validated via numerical examples.
On Fourier integral operators with Hölder-continuous phase
Authors: Cordero Elena , Nicola Fabio , Primo Eva
Published: March 2018

We study continuity properties in Lebesgue spaces for a class of Fourier integral operators arising in the study of the Boltzmann equation. The phase has a Hölder-type singularity at the origin. We prove boundedness in [Formula: see text] with a precise loss of decay depending on the Hölder exponent, and we show by counterexamples that a loss occurs even in the case of smooth phases. The results can be seen as a quantitative version of the Beurling–Helson theorem for changes of variables with a Hölder singularity at the origin. The continuity in [Formula: see text] is studied as well by providing sufficient conditions and relevant counterexamples. The proofs rely on techniques from time-frequency analysis.
An Investigation of Stability Analysis of Face Milling of Cantilever Plates at Low Cutting Speeds
Authors: Filho Joel Martins Crichigno , Bortolanza João Fabio
Published: March 2018

Considering the production requirement of workpiece optimization in order to reduce mass, the dynamic behavior of a workpiece can be affected. This factor can influence the performance of the milling process due to the occurrence of chatter vibrations. On the other hand, when the recommended cutting speed is relatively low, the tool rubs against the workpiece surface causing process damping. Consequently, the process becomes more stable and hence the depth of cut can be increased. In this paper, the stability of face milling of a cantilever plate at low cutting speed is investigated. The stability lobes diagram is determined numerically considering process damping. Cutting tests are conducted in order to verify the simulated results. An accelerometer is attached to the workpiece and its signal is measured and analyzed. Both workpiece surface and roughness are also investigated. The experimental results show a good agreement with the stability lobes diagram to predict the stable region under process damping. Hence, the depth of cut can be considerably increased, keeping the process stable at low cutting speeds.
Cosmological model with variable deceleration parameter in f(R,T) modified gravity
Authors: Tiwari Rishi Kumar , Beesham Aroonkumar , Shukla Bhupendra
Published: March 2018

A study is made of the LRS Bianchi type-I cosmological model in [Formula: see text] modified gravity theory. Einstein’s field equations in [Formula: see text] gravity are solved by taking [Formula: see text] and the deceleration parameter [Formula: see text] to be a linear function of the Hubble parameter [Formula: see text]. The universe begins with an initial singular state and changes with time from an early deceleration phase to a late time acceleration phase. We have found that the jerk parameter [Formula: see text] in the model approaches that of the [Formula: see text] model at late times. We also discuss the physical and geometrical properties of the model.
Cosmology of string bulk viscosity in f(G) theory of gravitation
Authors: Katore S. D. , Hatkar S. P. , Gore S. V.
Published: March 2018

LRS Bianchi type I space time is considered to explore bulk viscous string model in modified [Formula: see text] gravity. Field equations are solved with some physically viable condition. It is observed that the string phase of the universe disappears. The Gauss–Bonnet invariant significantly effects on galactic fluid. The universe is expanding and isotropic at large time. Some physical parameters are also discussed in detail.
Economic benefit evaluation method for the micro-grid renewable energy system operation
Authors: Wu Jiani
Published: March 2018

The development of micro-grid renewable energy system in China has achieved rapid growth in recent years, and the micro-grid renewable energy system has been drawing more and more attention by its flexible operation. Due to the randomness, fluctuation, uncertainty of the wind and photovoltaic renewable generation, abundant flexibility is required to meet the needs of safe, reliable and independent operation of the micro-grid energy system. We need to connect large energy systems to accept outside assistance when the micro-grid renewable energy system is short of adjustment capability. Independent operation and network operation will affect the economic benefit of the micro-grid energy system, so it is practically meaningful to study on the economic benefit evaluation of the micro-grid renewable energy system. This paper proposes a micro-grid energy system operation simulation model about wind and photovoltaic generation, the uncertainty of which is tackled based on the scenario generation and extraction techniques. Based on the proposed indices, the economic benefit could be evaluated by simulating the micro-grid energy system operation. The proposed method is validated by a real micro-grid energy system.
Photoreceptors Take Charge: Emerging Principles for Light Sensing
Authors: Kottke Tilman , Xie Aihua , Larsen Delmar S. , Hoff Wouter D.
Published: March 2018

The first stage in biological signaling is based on changes in the functional state of a receptor protein triggered by interaction of the receptor with its ligand(s). The light-triggered nature of photoreceptors allows studies on the mechanism of such changes in receptor proteins using a wide range of biophysical methods and with superb time resolution. Here, we critically evaluate current understanding of proton and electron transfer in photosensory proteins and their involvement both in primary photochemistry and subsequent processes that lead to the formation of the signaling state. An insight emerging from multiple families of photoreceptors is that ultrafast primary photochemistry is followed by slower proton transfer steps that contribute to triggering large protein conformational changes during signaling state formation. We discuss themes and principles for light sensing shared by the six photoreceptor families: rhodopsins, phytochromes, photoactive yellow proteins, light-oxygen-voltage proteins, blue-light sensors using flavin, and cryptochromes.
Rag1-null Dahl SS rats reveal that adaptive immune mechanisms exacerbate high protein-induced hypertension and renal injury
Authors: Abais-Battad Justine M. , Lund Hayley , Fehrenbach Daniel J. , Dasinger John Henry , Mattson David L.
Published: March 2018

The present study, performed in Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) and SS- Rag1−/− rats lacking T and B lymphocytes, tested the hypothesis that immune cells amplify salt-sensitive hypertension and kidney damage in response to a high-protein diet. After being weaned, SS and SS- Rag1−/− rats were placed on an isocaloric, 0.4% NaCl diet containing normal (18%) or high (30%) protein. At 9 wk of age, rats were switched to a 4.0% NaCl diet containing the same amount of dietary protein and maintained on the high-salt diet for 3 wk. After being fed the high-salt diet, SS rats fed high protein had amplified hypertension and albumin excretion (158.7 ± 2.6 mmHg and 140.8 ± 16.0 mg/day, respectively, means ± SE) compared with SS rats fed normal protein (139.4 ± 3.6 mmHg and 69.4 ± 11.3 mg/day). When compared with the SS rats, SS- Rag1−/− rats fed high protein were protected from exacerbated hypertension and albuminuria (142.9 ± 5.8 mmHg and 66.2 ± 10.8 mg/day). After 3 wk of the high-salt diet, there was a corresponding increase in total leukocyte infiltration (CD45+) in the kidneys of both strains fed high-protein diet. The SS- Rag1−/− rats fed high-protein diet had 74–86% fewer CD3+ T lymphocytes and CD45R+ B lymphocytes infiltrating the kidney versus SS rats, but there was no difference in the infiltration of CD11b/c+ monocytes and macrophages, suggesting that the protective effects observed in the SS- Rag1−/− rats are specific to the reduction of lymphocytes. With the SS- Rag1−/− rats utilized as a novel tool to explore the effects of lymphocyte deficiency, these results provide evidence that adaptive immune mechanisms contribute to the exacerbation of salt-induced hypertension and renal injury mediated by increased dietary protein intake.
Predicted effect of circadian clock modulation of NHE3 of a proximal tubule cell on sodium transport
Authors: Wei Ning , Gumz Michelle L. , Layton Anita T.
Published: March 2018

Major renal functions such as renal blood flow, glomerular filtration rate, and urinary excretion are known to exhibit circadian oscillations. However, the underlying mechanisms that govern these variations have yet to be fully elucidated. To better understand the impact of the circadian clock on renal solute and water transport, we have developed a computational model of the renal circadian clock and coupled that model to an epithelial transport model of the proximal convoluted cell of the rat kidney. The activity of the Na+-H+ exchanger 3 (NHE3) is assumed to be regulated by changes in transcription of the NHE3 mRNA due to regulation by circadian clock proteins. The model predicts the rhythmic oscillations in NHE3 activity, which gives rise to significant daily fluctuations in Na+ and water transport of the proximal tubule cell. Additionally, the model predicts that 1) mutation in period 2 (Per2) or cryptochrome 1 (Cry1) preserves the circadian rhythm and modestly raises Na+ reabsorption; 2) mutation in Bmal1 or CLOCK eliminates the circadian rhythm and modestly lowers Na+ reabsorption; 3) mutation in Rev-Erb or ROR-related orphan receptor (Ror) has minimal impact on the circadian oscillations. The model represents the first step in building a tool set aimed at increasing our understanding of how the molecular clock affects renal ion transport and renal function, which likely has important implications for kidney disease.
Retention of gait stability improvements over 1.5 years in older adults: effects of perturbation exposure and triceps surae neuromuscular exercise
Authors: Epro G. , Mierau A. , McCrum C. , Leyendecker M. , Brüggemann G.-P. , Karamanidis K.
Published: March 2018

The plantarflexors play a crucial role in recovery from sudden disturbances to gait. The objective of this study was to investigate whether medium (months)- or long(years)-term exercise-induced enhancement of triceps surae (TS) neuromuscular capacities affects older adults’ ability to retain improvements in reactive gait stability during perturbed walking acquired from perturbation training sessions. Thirty-four adult women (65 ± 7 yr) were recruited to a perturbation training group ( n = 13) or a group that additionally completed 14 wk of TS neuromuscular exercise ( n = 21), 12 of whom continued with the exercise for 1.5 yr. The margin of stability (MoS) was analyzed at touchdown of the perturbed step and the first recovery step following eight separate unexpected trip perturbations during treadmill walking. TS muscle-tendon unit mechanical properties and motor skill performance were assessed with ultrasonography and dynamometry. Two perturbation training sessions (baseline and after 14 wk) caused an improvement in the reactive gait stability to the perturbations (increased MoS) in both groups. The perturbation training group retained the reactive gait stability improvements acquired over 14 wk and over 1.5 yr, with a minor decay over time. Despite the improvements in TS capacities in the additional exercise group, no benefits for the reactive gait stability following perturbations were identified. Therefore, older adults’ neuromotor system shows rapid plasticity to repeated unexpected perturbations and an ability to retain these adaptations in reactive gait stability over a long time period, but an additional exercise-related enhancement of TS capacities seems not to further improve these effects.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Older adults’ neuromotor system shows rapid plasticity to repeated exposure to unexpected perturbations to gait and an ability to retain the majority of these adaptations in reactive recovery responses over a prolonged time period of 1.5 yr. However, an additional exercise-related enhancement of TS neuromuscular capacities is not necessarily transferred to the recovery behavior during unexpected perturbations to gait in older adults.
Intermittent Hypoxia Increases the Severity of Bleomycin‐Induced Lung Injury in Mice
Authors: Gille Thomas , Didier Morgane , Rotenberg Cécile , Delbrel Eva , Marchant Dominique , Sutton Angela , Dard Nicolas , Haine Liasmine , Voituron Nicolas , Bernaudin Jean-François , Valeyre Dominique , Nunes Hilario , Besnard Valérie , Boncoeur Emilie , Planès Carole
Published: March 2018

Background. Severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH) is common in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Here, we evaluated the impact of IH on bleomycin‐ (BLM‐) induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Methods. C57BL/6J mice received intratracheal BLM or saline and were exposed to IH (40 cycles/hour; FiO2 nadir: 6%; 8 hours/day) or intermittent air (IA). In the four experimental groups, we evaluated (i) survival; (ii) alveolar inflammation, pulmonary edema, lung oxidative stress, and antioxidant enzymes; (iii) lung cell apoptosis; and (iv) pulmonary fibrosis. Results. Survival at day 21 was lower in the BLM‐IH group (p < 0.05). Pulmonary fibrosis was more severe at day 21 in BLM‐IH mice, as assessed by lung collagen content (p = 0.02) and histology. At day 4, BLM‐IH mice developed a more severe neutrophilic alveolitis, (p < 0.001). Lung oxidative stress was observed, and superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase expression was decreased in BLM‐IH mice (p < 0.05 versus BLM‐IA group). At day 8, pulmonary edema was observed and lung cell apoptosis was increased in the BLM‐IH group. Conclusion. These results show that exposure to chronic IH increases mortality, lung inflammation, and lung fibrosis in BLM‐treated mice. This study raises the question of the worsening impact of severe OSA in IPF patients.
Potential of iPSC-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for Treating Periodontal Disease
Authors: Hynes K. , Bright R. , Marino V. , Ng J. , Verma P. J. , Gronthos S. , Bartold P. M.
Published: March 2018

Mesenchymal stromal cell-like populations have been derived from mouse-induced pluripotent stem cells (miPSC-MSC) with the capability for tissue regeneration. In this study, murine iPSC underwent differentiation towards an MSC-like immunophenotype. Stable miPSC-MSC cultures expressed the MSC-associated markers, CD73, CD105, and Sca-1, but lacked expression of the pluripotency marker, SSEA1, and hematopoietic markers, CD34 and CD45. Functionally, miPSC-MSC exhibited the potential for trilineage differentiation into osteoblasts, adipocytes, and chondrocytes and the capacity to suppress the proliferation of mitogen-activated splenocytes. The efficacy of miPSC-MSC was assessed in an acute inflammation model following systemic or local delivery into mice with subcutaneous implants containing heat-inactivated P. gingivalis. Histological analysis revealed less inflammatory cellular infiltrate within the sponges in mice treated with miPSC-MSC cells delivered locally rather than systemically. Assessment of proinflammatory cytokines in mouse spleens found that CXCL1 transcripts and protein were reduced in mice treated with miPSC-MSC. In a periodontitis model, mice subjected to oral inoculation with P. gingivalis revealed less bone tissue destruction and inflammation within the jaws when treated with miPSC-MSC compared to PBS alone. Our results demonstrated that miPSC-MSC derived from iPSC have the capacity to control acute and chronic inflammatory responses associated with the destruction of periodontal tissue. Therefore, miPSC-MSC present a promising novel source of stromal cells which could be used in the treatment of periodontal disease and other inflammatory systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Theoretical Study of C2H5 + NCO Reaction: Mechanism and Kinetics
Authors: Wu Nan-Nan , OuYang Shun-li , Li Liang
Published: March 2018

Theoretical investigations are performed on mechanism and kinetics of the reactions of ethyl radical C2H5 with NCO radical. The electronic structure information of the PES is obtained at the B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory, and the single-point energies are refined by the CCSD(T)/6-311+G(3df,2p) level of theory. The rate constants for various product channels of the reaction in the temperature range of 200–2000 K are predicted by performing VTST and RRKM calculations. The calculated results show that both the N and O atoms of the NCO radical can attack the C atom of C2H5 via a barrierless addition mechanism to form two energy-rich intermediates IM1 C2H5NCO (89.1 kcal/mol) and IM2 C2H5OCN (64.7 kcal/mol) on the singlet PES. Then they both dissociate to produce bimolecular products P1 C2H4 + HOCN and P2 C2H4 + HNCO. At high temperatures or low pressures, the reaction channel leading to bimolecular product P2 is dominant and the channel leading to P1 is the secondary, while, at low temperatures and high pressures, the collisional stabilization of the intermediate plays an important role and as a result IM2 becomes the primary product. The present results will enrich our understanding of the chemistry of the NCO radical in combustion processes.