bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects ofBacillus subtilisandLeuconostoc mesenteroideson the Quality Characteristics of PotatoGaraetteok
Authors: Lim Hyeji , Oh Sujin , Kim Misook
Published: January 2019

To investigate the texture and cooking properties ofgaraetteokelaborated with potato flour, experimental products were elaborated replacing partially the rice flour, traditionally used, with nonfermented (NF) or fermented potato flour withBacillus subtilis(BS) orLeuconostoc mesenteroides(LM) in percentages of 15% (NF15, BS15, and LM15) and 20% (NF20, BS20, and LM20). The control product (CON) was made using only rice flours. The pH ofgaraetteokwas significantly lower in the BS and LM groups compared to CON and NF. Titratable acidity was the highest in BS20 and LM15. LM groups showed similar textural profiles to CON. The addition of potato flour togaraetteokincreased the turbidity of soup (tteokguk), but the fermentation significantly lowered its turbidity. During storage for 24 h,garaetteokwith fermented potato flour showed the inhibition of starch retrogradation. All scores of LM15 and LM20 were better than other potatogaraetteoksand similar to those of CON with the exception of color acceptance. Consequently,garaetteok-added potato flour fermented withL. mesenteroideswas the most preferable in terms of texture, cooking, and sensory characteristics.
Antioxidant Efficiency ofPlatynereisspp. (Annelida, Nereididae) under Different pH Conditions at aCO2Vent’s System
Authors: Valvassori Giulia , Benedetti Maura , Regoli Francesco , Gambi Maria Cristina
Published: January 2019

Marine organisms are exposed to a pH decrease and to alteration of carbonate chemistry due to ocean acidification (OA) that can represent a source of oxidative stress which can significantly affect their antioxidant defence systems efficiency. The polychaetesPlatynereis dumeriliiandP. massiliensis(Nereididae) are key species of the benthic community to investigate the effect of OA due to their physiological and ecological characteristics that enable them to persist even in naturally acidified CO2vent systems. Previous studies have documented the ability of these species to adapt to OA after short- and long-term translocation experiments, but no one has ever evaluated the basal antioxidant system efficiency comparing populations permanently living in habitat characterized by different pH conditions (acidifiedvs.control). Here, individuals of bothPlatynereisspecies, sampled from a natural CO2vent system and from a nonventing “control” site in three different periods (April 2016, October 2016, and February 2017), were compared highlighting signals which suggested the ability of both species to acclimatize to highpCO2–low pH with slight seasonal variations of their antioxidant efficiency and the absence of disturbances of the oxidative status ofPlatynereisspp. tissues.
Amino Acid Biosignature in Plasma among Ischemic Stroke Subtypes
Authors: Goulart Vânia A. M. , Sena Marcelo M. , Mendes Thiago O. , Menezes Helvécio C. , Cardeal Zenilda L. , Paiva Maria J. N. , Sandrim Valéria C. , Pinto Mauro C. X. , Resende Rodrigo R.
Published: January 2019

Ischemic stroke is a neurovascular disorder caused by reduced or blockage of blood flow to the brain, which may permanently affect motor and cognitive abilities. The diagnostic of stroke is performed using imaging technologies, clinical evaluation, and neuropsychological protocols, but no blood test is available yet. In this work, we analyzed amino acid concentrations in blood plasma from poststroke patients in order to identify differences that could characterize the stroke etiology. Plasma concentrations of sixteen amino acids from patients with chronic ischemic stroke (n = 73) and the control group (n = 16) were determined using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The concentration data was processed by Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) to classify patients with stroke and control. The amino acid analysis generated a first model able to discriminate ischemic stroke patients from control group. Proline was the most important amino acid for classification of the stroke samples in PLS-DA, followed by lysine, phenylalanine, leucine, and glycine, and while higher levels of methionine and alanine were mostly related to the control samples. The second model was able to discriminate the stroke subtypes like atherothrombotic etiology from cardioembolic and lacunar etiologies, with lysine, leucine, and cysteine plasmatic concentrations being the most important metabolites. Our results suggest an amino acid biosignature for patients with chronic stroke in plasma samples, which can be helpful in diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics of these patients.
Families of Differential Equations in the Unit Disk
Authors: Fowler Kari E.
Published: January 2019

We study the interaction between coefficient and solution conditions for complex linear differential equations in the unit disk within the context of normal families and corresponding families of differential equations. In addition, we consider this interaction within the context of normal functions in terms of Noshiro. Consideration of families of differential equations introduces a new perspective for studying normality. Consequently, sharper results are found than in previous studies involving normal functions within the context of one differential equation.
Proanthocyanidins Antagonize Arsenic-Induced Oxidative Damage and Promote Arsenic Methylation through Activation of the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xu Mengchuan , Niu Qiang , Hu Yunhua , Feng Gangling , Wang Haixia , Li Shugang
Published: January 2019

Purpose. To investigate the effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) on oxidative damage and arsenic (As) methylation and to clarify the role of Nrf2 in the process. Methods. L-02 cells were treated with arsenic (25 μM) and GSPE (10, 25, and 50 mg/L) for 24 h. Cell viability was analyzed by MTT assay. Cell apoptosis and ROS fluorescence were detected by flow cytometry. Oxidative stress marker levels were measured using commercial kits. mRNA and protein expression were detected by qRT-PCR and western blotting. The cellular concentrations of methylation products were measured by HPLC-HGAFS. Arsenic methylation ability of cells was determined. Results. Cell survival rate was significantly lower in the As group than in the control group (P<0.05), while cell apoptosis increased and the number of apoptotic cells decreased gradually after GSPE intervention. Superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and sulfhydryl levels in the intervention group were significantly higher (P<0.05), while MDA and ROS levels were significantly lower (P<0.05) than those in the As group. The mRNA and protein expression of Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, and glutathione-S-transferase increased in the As + GSPE group compared with that in the As group (P<0.05). GSPE significantly increased methylated As level, primary methylation index, secondary methylation index, average growth rate of methylation, and average methylation speed compared with the GSPE untreated group (P<0.05). After Nrf2 inhibition, the effect of GSPE decreased significantly. Conclusion. GSPE activates the Nrf2 signaling pathway to antagonize As-induced oxidative damage and to promote As methylation metabolism. Therefore, GSPE may be a potential agent for relieving As-induced hepatotoxicity.
Tubulointerstitial Infiltration of M2 Macrophages in Henoch-Schönlein Purpura Nephritis Indicates the Presence of Glomerular Crescents and Bad Clinical Parameters
Authors: Kim Jisup , Choi Sung-Eun , Lee Keum Hwa , Jeong Hyeon Joo , Shin Jae Il , Lim Beom Jin
Published: January 2019

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is the most common systemic vasculitis in children, and renal involvement (HSP nephritis, HSPN) is a severe manifestation. HSPN is histologically classified by the International Study of Kidney Disease in Children (ISKDC) based on mesangial hypercellularity and the extent of glomerular crescents. Macrophages, categorized as M1 or M2, frequently infiltrate in various glomerular and tubulointerstitial diseases and infiltration of specific subtypes is associated with disease progression. Therefore, to identify whether infiltration of M1 or M2 macrophages has clinical significance, we quantified the subtypes of macrophages in 49 HSPN specimens and correlated the counts with histologic features and clinical parameters. Higher tubulointerstitial M2 counts were associated with chronic renal failure (CRF), ISKDC classes III-IV, and crescents (P<0.001, 0.002, 0.001). Glomerular M2 counts were significantly related to ISKDC classes III-IV and crescents (area under curve, AUC 0.804, 0.833). Tubulointerstitial M2 counts were associated with CRF, ISKDC classes III-IV, and crescents (AUC 0.872, 0.778, 0.830). Tubulointerstitial M2 counts also revealed higher AUC than tubulointerstitial M1 counts for CRF (P=0.036) and ISKDC classes III-IV (P=0.047). Glomerular M2 counts revealed higher AUC than glomerular M1 counts for ISKDC classes III–IV (P=0.024). Tubulointerstitial M2 counts were the most powerful parameter for CRF (AUC 0.872) and revealed even higher AUC than ISKDC classification (AUC 0.716) with borderline significance (P=0.086) for CRF. In summary, tubulointerstitial M2 counts were a superior parameter to tubulointerstitial M1 counts and even to ISKDC classification indicating the presence of CRF.
Electrodeposition of 4-Benzenesulfonic Acid onto a Graphite-Epoxy Composite Electrode for the Enhanced Voltammetric Determination of Caffeine in Beverages
Authors: Furtado Leonardo de A. , Gonçalves Mariana C. de O. , Inocêncio Carlos V. M. , Pinto Edilson M. , Martins Daniela de L. , Semaan Felipe S.
Published: January 2019

Caffeine is widely present in food and drinks, such as teas and coffees, being also part of some currently commercialized medicines, but despite its enhancement on several functions of human body, its exceeding use can promote many health problems. In order to develop new fast approaches for the caffeine sensing, graphite-epoxy composite electrodes (GECE) were used as substrate, being modified by different diazonium salts, synthetized as their tetraflouroborate salts. An analytical method for caffeine quantification was developed, using sware wave voltammetry (SWV) in Britton–Robinson buffer pH 2.0. Detection limits for bare electrode and 4-benzenesulfonic modified electrode were observed circa 145 µmol·L−1 and 1.3 µmol·L−1, respectively. The results have shown that the modification shifts the oxidation peaks to lower potential. Kinetics of the reaction limited by diffusion was more expressive when caffeine was added to the solution, resulting in decreases of impedance, characterized by lower Rct. All results for caffeine determination were compared to a reference chromatographic procedure (HPLC), showing no statistical difference. Analytical parameters for validation were suitably determined according to local legislation, leading to a linear behaviour from 5 to 150 µmol·L−1; precision of 4.09% was evaluated based on the RDC 166/17, and accuracy was evaluated in comparison with the reference method, with recovery of 98.37 ± 2.58%.
Evaluation of Ramp Metering Impacts on Travel Time Reliability and Traffic Operations through Simulation
Authors: Shehada Mohammad K. H. , Kondyli Alexandra
Published: January 2019

Ramp metering has been found to improve traffic conditions on the freeway mainline by breaking the platoons of ramp vehicles minimizing turbulence at the merge locations. The majority of the ramp metering evaluation studies have examined traffic performance under specific demand conditions, whereas travel time reliability and variability aspects have not been adequately addressed. This paper focuses on evaluating two well-known ramp metering algorithms in terms of travel time reliability as well as other performance measures such as queue lengths, throughput, and congestion duration, looking at a wide range of traffic demands throughout a calendar year. The evaluation was done through simulating an 8-mile corridor in Kansas City, KS. The results showed localized improvements due to ramp metering at the northern section of the facility, in terms of travel time reliability, throughput, and congestion duration. It was also shown that ramp metering may cause a new (possibly “hidden”) bottleneck to occur downstream, thus diluting its overall benefits when looking at an entire freeway facility. It is further noted that although ALINEA performed better than HERO on the mainline, traffic operations on the on-ramps significantly deteriorated using isolated control.
Exact Solutions to a Generalized Bogoyavlensky‐Konopelchenko Equation via Maple Symbolic Computations
Authors: Chen Shou-Ting , Ma Wen-Xiu
Published: January 2019

We aim to construct exact and explicit solutions to a generalized Bogoyavlensky‐Konopelchenko equation through the Maple computer algebra system. The considered nonlinear equation is transformed into a Hirota bilinear form, and symbolic computations are made for solving both the nonlinear equation and the corresponding bilinear equation. A few classes of exact and explicit solutions are generated from different ansätze on solution forms, including traveling wave solutions, two‐wave solutions, and polynomial solutions.
Pretreatment Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) Predicts Prognosis for Castration Resistant Prostate Cancer Patients Underwent Enzalutamide
Authors: Kumano Yohei , Hasegawa Yoriko , Kawahara Takashi , Yasui Masato , Miyoshi Yasuhide , Matsubara Nobuaki , Uemura Hiroji
Published: January 2019

Introduction. Nearly 80% of advanced prostate cancer patients respond to initial androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). However, ADT does not prevent the progression of prostate cancer over the long term, and the disease eventually progresses to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Prior to the development of enzalutamide (ENZ) and abiraterone acetate, docetaxel was the only established treatment with life-prolongation for CRPC. ENZ is a second-generation anti-androgen receptor drug that has contributed to improving the prognosis of CRPC. Several studies have reported factors predicting the efficacy of ENZ; however, there are no confirmed biomarkers. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is an easily calculated biomarker that is associated with the prognosis of several solid malignancies. However, there were few studies investigated NLR for ENZ in patients with mCRPC. We examined the usefulness of the NLR as a predictive tool for ENZ. Methods. We retrospectively examined a total of 106 CRPC patients who were treated with ENZ until September 2016 in Yokohama City University Hospital, Yokohama City University Medical Center, and National Cancer Center Hospital East. ENZ was routinely started as a dose of 160 mg per day; the dosage was reduced in some patients due to side effects. Drug holiday for 1-2 weeks or dose reduction to 80-120mg was done and no patients discontinued ENZ treatment due to adverse effects. ENZ was stopped when cancer progression was detected based on PSA elevation, radiographic findings, and deterioration of the patient’s performance status. The cut-off NLRs for overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were determined based on the receiver-operator curves. Kaplan-Meier curves were used to analyze the factors associated with OS or CSS and a log-rank test was performed. A multivariate analysis was also performed to analyze the factors associated with the prognosis. Results. We retrospectively reviewed 106 consecutive CRPC patients who were both treated with ENZ and were able to be counted before ENZ NLR. Cut-off point was 2.14 for both OS and CSS by receiver operator characteristic curve. The patients were then divided into the higher NLR group (≥2.14) and lower NLR group (<2.14). Multivariate analysis showed that NLR and predocetaxel chemotherapy were independent risk factors for both overall and cancer-specific survival. Conclusions. The NLR might be a useful biomarker for predicting the prognosis of mCRPC patients who are treated with ENZ.
Formation of SS316L Single Tracks in Micro Selective Laser Melting: Surface, Geometry, and Defects
Authors: Hu Zhiheng , Nagarajan Balasubramanian , Song Xu , Huang Rui , Zhai Wei , Wei Jun
Published: January 2019

To fabricate complex parts with a fine resolution and smooth finish, micro selective laser melting (SLM) has been developed recently by combining three attributes: small laser beam spot, fine powder size, and thin layer thickness. This paper studies the effect of the micro-SLM process parameters on the single track formation of 316L stainless steel. The surface morphology, geometrical features, and defects have been analyzed in detail. The results highlight that laser power and scanning velocity have a significant effect on the formation of single tracks. The single tracks fabricated through micro-SLM with varying process parameters are classified into four types: no melting, discontinuous, continuous but unstable, and continuous tracks. Besides, the top surface of the tracks is observed with “double-crest” morphology, due to the high recoil pressure gradient generated by the extremely fine spot size. In addition, molten pool geometry (width, depth, and height) has been characterized to study the mode of the molten pool in micro-SLM. Finally, the occurrence of two typical defects within the tracks, keyhole pore and cavity at the edges, has been studied.
A Novel Improved Maximum Entropy Regularization Technique and Application to Identification of Dynamic Loads on the Coal Rock
Authors: Liu Chunsheng , Ren Chunping
Published: January 2019

A new signal processing algorithm was proposed to identify the dynamic load acting on the coal-rock structure. First, the identification model for dynamic load is established through the relationship between the uncertain load vector, and the assembly matrix of the responses was measured by the machinery dynamic system. Then, the entropy item of maximum entropy regularization (MER) is redesigned using the robust estimation method, and the elongated penalty function according to the ill-posedness characteristics of load identification, which was named as a novel improved maximum entropy regularization (IMER) technique, was proposed to process the dynamic load signals. Finally, the load identification problem is transformed into an unconstrained optimization problem and an improved Newton iteration algorithm was proposed to solve the objective function. The result of IMER technique is compared with MER technique, and it is found that IMER technique is available for analyzing the dynamic load signals due to higher signal-noise ratio, lower restoration time, and fewer iterative steps. Experiments were performed to investigate the effect on the performance of dynamic load signals identification by different regularization parameters and calculation parameters, pi, respectively. Experimental results show that the identified dynamic load signals are closed to the actual load signals using IMER technique combined with the proposed PSO-L regularization parameter selection method. Selecting optimal calculated parameters pi is helpful to overcome the ill-condition of dynamic load signals identification and to obtain the stable and approximate solutions of inverse problems in practical engineering. Meanwhile, the proposed IMER technique can also play a guiding role for the coal-rock interface identification.
The Mechanical Properties of Granite under Ultrasonic Vibration
Authors: Zhou Yu , Tang Qiongqiong , Zhang Shulei , Zhao Dajun
Published: January 2019

The new technique of using ultrasonic vibration to break hard rock is still in the experimental stage, but it has significant potential for improving the efficiency of hard rock crushing. We have analyzed the mechanical properties of granite under ultrasonic vibration and the characteristics of the damage produced. This was achieved by using an ultraloading device to apply continuous and discontinuous ultrasonic vibrations, respectively, to 32 mm diameter and 72 mm high granite samples. An ultradynamic data acceptor combined with strain gauges was used to monitor the strain of the granite in real time, and the elastic‐plastic deformation behavior of the granite under ultrasonic vibration was observed. The results of this experiment indicate that the granite samples underwent elastic deformation, plastic deformation, and damage during this process. The samples first experienced compressive deformation with no obvious rupturing. As the vibration continued, the deformation finally became tensile, and significant fragmentation occurred. The mechanical properties of granite under ultrasonic vibration are analyzed in detail on the basis of these results, and the basis for selecting a vibration frequency is discussed.
Polycythemia Vera Presenting as Cardiac Arrest: Novel Management Strategies
Authors: Davis Mark I. , Courtney Brian K. , Cohen Gideon , Poon Stephanie , Madan Mina
Published: January 2019

Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) usually occur in patients with multiple cardiac risk factors. In young adults, drug use and hypercoagulable states are common causes for ACS presentations. We report a case of a man in his early 30s who was diagnosed with polycythemia vera (PV) and had a cardiac arrest due to an anterolateral ST elevation myocardial infarction. We discuss his unique management and review the evidence on the management of arterial thromboembolism in PV patients.
The Influence of Mg2+ Ions on the In Vitro Efficacy of Chitosan-Titanium Dioxide Nanotubes (CTNTs) Scaffolds
Authors: Lim Siew Shee , Kho Shui Wei , Ang Nehemiah Li Heng , Pang Cheng Heng , Loh Hwei-San
Published: January 2019

Low mechanical strength and lack of osteoconductive cues are problems associated with chitosan-based scaffolds. This research aimed to fabricate reinforced chitosan-titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanotubes (CTNTs) scaffolds attributed to the enhanced biocompatibility and physical properties of TiO2 nanotubes (TNTs). The incorporation of hydrothermally synthesized TNTs at weight percent of 16 into chitosan was achieved via direct blending and lyophilization. CTNTs scaffolds were further subjected to 24-h adsorption in MgCl2 solutions of 0.5 mM, 1 mM, 2.5 mM, and 5 mM at physiological pH. The adsorption affinity of CTNTs towards Mg2+ ions was high and mainly attributed to the macroporosity of scaffolds and nanocavities of TNTs. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity of CTNTs for Mg2+ ions was 8.8 mg/g scaffolds. Its adsorption isotherm fitted well with Langmuir isotherm by showing R2 of 0.9995. Fluorescence-based staining, cell viability, and alkaline phosphatase assays indicated that the adsorbed Mg2+ ions onto CTNTs scaffolds aided in promoting higher proliferation and early differentiation of MG63 cells than scaffolds without Mg2+ ions in a concentration-dependent manner. Based on current results, CTNTs scaffolds with Mg2+ ions may be a potential biomaterial for bone regeneration.
Node Importance Ranking in Complex Networks Based on Multicriteria Decision Making
Authors: Yang Yuanzhi , Yu Lei , Zhou Zhongliang , Chen You , Kou Tian
Published: January 2019

Measuring node importance in complex networks has great theoretical and practical significance for network stability and robustness. A variety of network centrality criteria have been presented to address this problem, but each of them focuses only on certain aspects and results in loss of information. Therefore, this paper proposes a relatively comprehensive and effective method to evaluate node importance in complex networks using a multicriteria decision‐making method. This method not only takes into account degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality, but also uses an entropy weighting method to calculate the weight of each criterion, which can overcome the influence of the subjective factor. To illustrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method, four experiments were conducted to rank node importance on four real networks. The experimental results showed that the proposed method can rank node importance more comprehensively and accurately than a single centrality criterion.
Study and Dimensioning of the Tanks Dedicated to a Compressed Air Storage System (CAES)
Authors: Rais Ilham , Mahmoudi H.
Published: January 2019

The fundamental idea of storage is to transfer available energy During periods of low demand, using only a fraction of the fuel that would be consumed by the standard production machine (gas turbine, thermal engine, etc.). The main role of energy storage is therefore to introduce an energy degree of freedom to decouple Consumers and the producer by supplying or Delivering the difference between these two powers. In this paper is this paper presents a brief study and dimensioning of compressed air storage tanks to a hybrid system wind-PV . adopts the CAES system as a storage agent. Starting with the technical criteria on which the choice of reservoirs is based and the mechanical constraints that must be taken into consideration for dimensioning of the reservoirs
Band-pass Filter with Harmonics Suppression Capability
Authors: Idris Izni Husna , Hamid Mohamad Rijal , Kamardin Kamilia , A. Rahim Mohamad Kamal , Zubir Farid , Majid Huda A.
Published: January 2019

This paper presents a Band-pass Filter (BPF) with a very wide suppressions band. The filter design is based on a modified U-shaped slot. Two pair of U-shaped slots is used to ensure that the filter can suppress the unwanted frequencies up to 4th harmonics. In order to achieve sharp skirt, two transmission zeroes are created near the passband area. Additional transmission zeroes are introduced to deepen the stopband area. Therefore, the passband range starts from 1.3 to 3.3 GHz and the stopband range from 3.3 GHz up to 9 GHz are achieved. The filter performances are verified through simulated and measured results.
Response of Polycrystalline Solar Cell Outputs to Visible Spectrum and other Light Sources-a Case Study
Authors: Al-Rawashdeh Ayman Y. , Albarbarawi Omar , Qaryouti Ghazi
Published: January 2019

In this case study, two polycrystalline solar modules were installed outdoors (irradiated by sunlight) and indoors (irradiated by artificial lights). The solar cells in both cases were installed using different color filters that allowed the passage of certain light frequencies. The amount of energy produced by each module were measured and compared to a reference module with no filter. The results indicated the variable response of polycrystalline solar cells to natural and artificial light sources, being more responsive in both cases to red band color as could be deduced from their % current outputs (72.5% sunlight radiation; 84.38% artificial light sources). Other colors, including yellow, green, orange and violet afforded acceptable outputs. The results indicated that electrical outputs of indoor solar cells decreased when colored filters were used, but red filter in general afforded the maximum outputs, for both the artificially radiated indoor and naturally radiated outdoor solar cells. The case study suggests the possible complementary advantage of using indoor mounted solar cells for the production of electricity during artificial illumination period of the day.
Packets Wavelets and Stockwell Transform Analysis of Femoral Doppler Ultrasound Signals
Authors: Latfaoui M. , Reguig F. Bereksi
Published: January 2019

Ultrasonic Doppler signals are widely used in the detection of cardiovascular pathologies or the evaluation of the degree of stenosis in the femoral arteries. The presence of stenosis can be indicated by disturbing the blood flow in the femoral arteries, causing spectral broadening of the Doppler signal. To analyze these types of signals and determine stenosis index, a number of time-frequency methods have been developed, such as the short-time Fourier transform, the continuous wavelets transform, the wavelet packet transform, and the S-transform.
The Improved Hybrid Algorithm for the Atheer and Berry-Ravindran Algorithms
Authors: Razzaq Atheer Akram Abdul , Rashid Nur’Aini Abdul , Abbood Alaa Ahmed , Zainol Zurinahni
Published: January 2019

Exact String matching considers is one of the important ways in solving the basic problems in computer science. This research proposed a hybrid exact string matching algorithm called E-Atheer. This algorithm depended on good features; searching and shifting techniques in the Atheer and Berry-Ravindran algorithms, respectively. The proposed algorithm showed better performance in number of attempts and character comparisons compared to the original and recent and standard algorithms. E-Atheer algorithm used several types of databases, which are DNA, Protein, XML, Pitch, English, and Source. The best performancein the number of attempts is when the algorithm is executed using the pitch dataset. The worst performance is when it is used with DNA dataset. The best and worst databases in the number of character comparisons with the E-Atheer algorithm are the Source and DNA databases, respectively.
A Diagnostic Analytics of Harmonic Source Signature Recognition by Using Periodogram
Authors: Jopri M. H. , Abdullah A. R. , Sutikno T. , Manap M. , Ab Ghani M. R. , Hussin A. S.
Published: January 2019

This paper presents a diagnostic analytics of harmonic source signature recognition of rectifier and inverter-based load in the distribution system with single-point measurement at the point of common coupling by utilizing Periodogram. Signature recognition pattern is used to distinguish the harmonic sources accurately by obtaining the distribution of harmonic and interharmonic components and the harmonic contribution changes.  This is achieved by using the significant signature recognition of harmonic producing load obtained from analysing the harmonic contribution changes. Based on voltage and current signature analysis, the distribution of harmonic components can be divided into three zones. To distinguish between the harmonic producing loads, the harmonic components are observed at these zones to get the signature recognition pattern. The result demonstrate that periodogram technique accurately diagnose and distinguish the type of harmonic sources in the distribution system.
Performance Analysis of H-bridge and T-Bridge Multilevel Inverters for Harmonics Reduction
Authors: Usha S. , Subramani C. , Geetha A.
Published: January 2019

This paper deals with the design of cascaded 11 level H- bridge inverter. It includes a comparison between the 11 level H-bridge and T-bridge multilevel inverter. The cascaded inverter of higher level is a very effective and practical solution for reduction of total harmonic distortion (THD).These cascaded multilevel inverter can be used for higher voltage applications with more stability. As the level is increased the output waveform becomes more sinusoidal in nature. The inverter is designed using multicarrier sinusoidal pulse width modulation technique for generating triggering pulses for the semiconductor switches used in the device. Through this paper it will be proved that a cascaded multilevel H-bridge topology has higher efficiency than a T-bridge inverter, as whichever source input voltage is provided since input is equal to the output voltage. In T-bridge inverter, the output obtained is half of the applied input, so efficiency is just half as compared to H-bridge. The output waveform is distorted and has higher THD.  The simulation is performed using MATLAB /Simulink 2013 software.
Performance of Brushless DC Drive with Single Current Sensor Fed from PV with High Voltage-Gain DC-DC Converter
Authors: RajaSekhar G. G , Banakara Basavaraja
Published: January 2019

This paper presents the performance of Brushless DC (BLDC) Motor drive with only one positioning sensor instead of three conventional sensors. The three sensor units are replaced with a single stator current sensor unit in DC bus which further reduces the cost increasing the reliability of the drive system. Using a single sensor in stator requires minimum electronic equipment for the purpose of measurement process. This paper evolves the BLDC motor drive fed from PV system. A high voltage-gain DC-DC converter is presented in this paper to step-up the voltage from PV system. The appropriateness of PV fed BLDC motor drive is verified for variable increamental speed with fixed torque and variable decremental speed with fixed torque operating conditions. BLDC motor drive performance is also performed for variable torque with fixed peed working condition. The proposed system and results are developed using MATLAB/SIMULINK software.
SOIL CHARACTERISTICS UNDER INTENSIFIED SHIFTING CULTIVATION FOR UPLAND RICE CULTIVATION IN UPLAND SABAL, SARAWAK, MALAYSIA
Authors: Ying Ho Soo , Wasli Mohd Effendi bin , Perumal Mugunthan
Published: January 2019

Shifting cultivation practices are regarded as the most important agricultural land-use in the marginal uplands of Sarawak for the livelihood of the rural communities. In response to various socio-economic consequences, previous practices on traditional form of shifting cultivation were altered into much sedentary farming practices. Soil productivity to sustain rice yield under current intensified forms of shifting cultivation should be of prime importance for food security among the local community at the marginal uplands of Sarawak. Therefore, this study was conducted to characterize soil properties influenced by the current intensified shifting cultivation practices at Sabal upland area, Sarawak. Along with the use of agrochemicals, shifting cultivation at Sabal area was conducted through single cultivation practices (10 to 15 years of fallow period and a cycle of rice cultivation) and multiple cultivation practices (5 to 7 years of fallow period and two cycles of rice cultivation). Before burning practices, soil pH was highly acidic (ranged from 4.28 to 4.72) in single cultivation sites; while multiple cultivation sites showed less acidic nature (soil pH ranged from 4.98 to 5.23) with relatively high secondary macronutrient contents, especially soil exchangeable Mg and Ca. No significant observation was found after burning practice in Total C and Total N of the soils at both sites. The level of soil exchangeable bases (K, Mg and Ca) and available P increased after the burning practices in single cultivation farmlands; while multiple cultivation sites showed lower to no increase in exchangeable bases and available P, partly attributed to the limited supply of nutrients from the aboveground biomass. After the harvesting of rice, soils at both sites tended to be more acidic and lower in macronutrient contents (K, Mg and Ca), primarily ascribable to crop uptake during the cultivation period. The average yield of rice in single cultivation sites and multiple cultivation sites were 721 kg/ha and 391 kg/ha, respectively. Our findings suggested that the usage of agrochemicals, particularly fertilizers in multiple cultivation sites are necessary for sustaining rice yield to restore the depleted macronutrients (especially K, Mg and Ca) after successive cultivation.
Ataktogamous green microalgae of the genus Chlorosarcinopsis Herndon (Chlorophyceae, Chlorophyta) from Zabaikalskiy region (Russia)
Authors: EGOROVA IRINA N. , MINCHEVA ELENA V. , BOLDINA OLGA N.
Published: January 2019

The algae described in this paper appeared in enrichment culture from epiphytic mosses sample collected in southern Zabaikalie (Russia). This organism forms 2–8-celled and 3-dimensional packages of irregular shape. Vegetative cells are spherical, ellipsoidal and ovoid when solitary; cells with thin wall, thickening with age and occasionally with a unipolar manner. The cells and packages are devoid of a gelatinous matrix. There are akinete-like cells with sculptured cell wall. Sexual reproduction is ataktogamic. The results of morphologic and molecular phylogenetic studies allow us to attribute the alga to the genus Chlorosarcinopsis and show a high similarity with C. dissociata and C. bastropiensis. However, obtained data do not prove its identity to any known species of the genus.
Sharing Is Caring? Exploring the Relationship Between Preferences for Online Participation and Support for Solidarity Between EU Member States
Authors: Brändle Verena K. , Eisele Olga
Published: January 2019

The article explores the influence of online participation on individual-level support for burden-sharing measures among EU member states. The analysis is set against the backdrop of the discussion about solidarity in times of EU crises and follows an innovative approach by operationalizing social inclusion in the European Union via online participation. It is argued that the specific nature of the European Union favors the use of online channels for political information and participation, but that despite its inclusive potential, online participation does not necessarily mean public support for the European Union. Instead, we hypothesize that people who make more use of online participation channels—thus are supposedly better equipped to participate in EU politics—are more critical in their evaluation of burden-sharing measures. Based on a large-scale survey among EU citizens in late 2016, we conduct a regression analysis taking into account the influence of EU support and general considerations on solidarity. Results lend support to our hypothesis that people who participate in political affairs online do not express greater support for EU burden-sharing measures but are more critical. Results are interpreted as an expression of the constraining dissensus regarding EU politics: Negative effects are read as criticism of how solidarity in the European Union is implemented, not as opposition to solidarity in the European Union as such.
Effect of Alprostadil on the Prevention of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A Meta-Analysis of 36 Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Xie Jian , Jiang Mingyang , Lin Yunni , Deng Huachu , Li Lang
Published: January 2019

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is the third leading cause of acquired acute renal injury in hospitalized patients. Alprostadil plays a role in the maintenance and redistribution of intrarenal blood flow and the excretion of electrolytes and water. However, the effectiveness of alprostadil in preventing CIN remains controversial. Thirty-six articles with a total of 5495 patients were included in this study. Both groups (experimental group and control group) received standard hydration therapy. In the experimental group, patients received different doses of alprostadil. Serum creatinine (SCr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), cystatin C, creatinine clearance rate (CCr), and β2-microglobulin (β2-MG) were measured at 24, 48, and 72 hours after contrast media injection. The incidence of CIN in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group (6.56% vs 16.74%). The level of SCr, cystatin C, BUN, and β2-MG in the experimental group was lower than those in the control group; CCr and eGFR in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group. This study demonstrated that alprostadil may reduce the incidence of CIN in patients undergoing coronary angiogram and/or percutaneous coronary intervention.
Anatomic Considerations for a Posterior Endoscopic Approach to the Cricoarytenoid Joint
Authors: Lerner Michael Z. , Downie Sherry A. , Tan-Geller Melin
Published: January 2019

Objective:

This anatomic study considers the feasibility of a posterior endoscopic approach to the cricoarytenoid joint (CAJ) by describing relationships between readily identifiable anatomic landmarks and the posterior CAJ space in cadaver larynges.

Study Design:

Anatomic study.

Methods:

Six adult cadaver larynges (2 male, 4 female) were studied. Digital calipers were used for measurements, and Image J software was used for angle calculations. All cricoarytenoid joints were injected with colored gel via a posterior approach using a 27-gauge needle.

Results:

The average age of the larynges studied was 78.7 ± 10 years. The average posterior CAJ space (pCAJs) length measured 4.95 ± 0.9 mm. The average distance from the superior aspect of the midline cricoid lamina (MCL) to the center of pCAJs and the corniculate cartilage (CC) to the center of the pCAJs were 8.35 ± 1.5 mm and 14.54 ± 1.9 mm, respectively. The average pCAJs angle of declination (AD) from the horizontal plane was 54° ± 6.2°. All 12 cricoarytenoid joints were successfully injected with colored gel via a posterior approach.

Conclusions:

The posterior CAJ space can be located surgically using readily identifiable anatomic landmarks. An understanding of this posterior CAJ anatomy may allow for more consistent intra-articular injection and support the development of other CAJ procedures for a range of disorders of vocal fold motion or malposition.
A Comparison of Different Nonnormal Distributions in Growth Mixture Models
Authors: Son Sookyoung , Lee Hyunjung , Jang Yoona , Yang Junyeong , Hong Sehee
Published: January 2019

The purpose of the present study is to compare nonnormal distributions (i.e., t, skew-normal, skew- t with equal skew and skew- t with unequal skew) in growth mixture models (GMMs) based on diverse conditions of a number of time points, sample sizes, and skewness for intercepts. To carry out this research, two simulation studies were conducted with two different models: an unconditional GMM and a GMM with a continuous distal outcome variable. For the simulation, data were generated under the conditions of a different number of time points (4, 8), sample size (300, 800, 1,500), and skewness for intercept (1.2, 2, 4). Results demonstrate that it is not appropriate to fit nonnormal data to normal, t, or skew-normal distributions other than the skew- t distribution. It was also found that if there is skewness over time, it is necessary to model skewness in the slope as well.
Interventions to Improve Fraction Skills for Students With Disabilities: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ennis Robin Parks , Losinski Mickey
Published: January 2019

Proficiency with fractions is one of the most significant predictors of later mathematics achievement. However, there are currently no meta-analyses that assess the literature base on fractions for students with or at risk for disabilities using quality indicators. We applied the 2014 Council for Exceptional Children Standards for Evidence-Based Practices in Special Education (CEC EBP) to 21 studies, both single-case and group designs, with instructionally based fraction interventions, published from 1986 to 2017. Ten of the included studies met all of the CEC EBP quality indicators, and effect sizes ranged from g = 0.42 to 11.51 across interventions. Publication bias was mixed but limited across the research base. Included studies examined the effects of anchored instruction, explicit instruction, graduated instruction, strategy instruction, and video modeling; explicit instruction was determined to be an evidence-based practice when applying the CEC EBP standards. We offer limitations and directions for future research in this area.
Collaboration: A Mechanism of Drug Court Model Adherence
Authors: Mei Xiaohan , van Wormer Jacqueline G. , Lu Ruibin , Abboud Mia J. , Lutze Faith E.
Published: January 2019

Drug courts solve problems, namely, reducing drug use and recidivism. The current research attempts to answer the question of how to ensure program fidelity and therefore optimize the efficacy of drug courts. Justice professionals and scholars have recognized that there are multiple internal and external threats that could undermine the drug court operation. At this point, the mechanism(s) by which threaten factors affect drug court program fidelity has been neither theoretically modeled nor empirically tested. In the present study, using a national sample and the Structural Regression Analysis (SRA), we found collaboration and judicial decision making are the most important factors for maintaining drug court program fidelity. This is because collaboration and judicial decision making can mediate the threats and challenges from many quarters, including the lack of information sharing and evaluation, treatment, operational support, and community and political support.
The myth of de facto segregation
Authors: Rothstein Richard
Published: January 2019

Today, our schools are more racially segregated than at any time in the last 40 years, mainly because the neighborhoods in which they are located are themselves racially segregated. Yet, the U.S. Supreme Court, in its 2007 Parents Involved ruling, prohibited school districts from implementing even modest race-conscious desegregation plans. If people of differing races live in different neighborhoods, the Court found, it is because of de facto segregation (e.g., private individuals’ choices about where to live), which the government has no power to remedy. But in fact, argues Richard Rothstein, residential segregation can be traced back to specific decisions made by public officials at the local, state, and federal levels. De facto segregation is a myth, and there’s no reason why the government shouldn’t take action to integrate schools in segregated neighborhoods.
Work and School in Young Adulthood: The Role of Personal Financial Responsibilities and Parental Social Support
Authors: Cho Sugene , Purtell Kelly M.
Published: January 2019

Combining work while attending college is a common strategy for youth with limited financial means to pursue postsecondary education. However, we know relatively little about the socioeconomic contexts behind the different work and school decisions and whether the meaning of each work and school experience vary by different socioeconomic backgrounds. Following a national sample of young adults, this study explored how personal financial responsibilities and parental social support are associated with employment or enrollment in college and youths’ perceived relevance of them for their prospective careers. Youths’ personal financial responsibilities were associated with higher odds of working only and combining school and work, compared to attending college only. Youths’ personal financial responsibilities were positively linked to the career relevance of their work and school experiences, but only when they were experiencing low parental social support.
Malnutrition in children and its determinants: a study from east India
Authors: Pratim Roy Manas
Published: January 2019

Malnutrition continues to be a major killer of children, predominantly in low- and middle-income countries such as India. An ecological study was undertaken to correlate different demographic factors with the prevalence of underweight children. Based on findings from the National Family Health Survey 4 (2015–2016), 81 districts were analysed from three states in the eastern part of India. The findings suggest that female literacy (r = −0.556) and improved sanitation (r = −0.741) reduces the burden of malnutrition. Regarding childbirth, four antenatal visits (ANC), institutional deliveries, full immunisation, early breast feeding and adequate diet also reduce the degree of malnutrition among children. For preventing malnutrition, emphasis should be laid on improving social determinants and maternal health awareness.
Courts-Martial Appeals in Australia
Authors: Enderby K. E.
Published: January 2019

In 1955 the Commonwealth Government passed the Courts-Martial Appeals Act 1955 setting up in Australia a Tribunal to be known as the Courts-Martial Appeal Tribunal. This gave the ultimate review of courts-martial (save that of 'pardon') to civilian lawyers, whereas previously it had been exercised bythe Service concerned itself. The principles to be applied in determining appeals were set out in the Act and are similar to those set out in the Criminal Appeal Act 1912 (N.S.W.)