bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Evaluation of Mineral Resources Development Efficiency Based on Hesitant Fuzzy Linguistic Approach and Modified TODIM
Authors: Li Pu , Chen Xudong , Qu Xinyi , Xu Qi
Published: January 2018

The evaluation of mineral resources development efficiency is a typical multicriteria decision-making issue. Meanwhile, due to the limited existing technology, there might be subjectivity, ambiguity, and inaccuracy of the measurement of the evaluation index of mineral resources development efficiency. In this paper, we, considering the incomplete information, use the hesitant fuzzy linguistic approach to describe the psychological hesitation and ambiguity of the decision-maker in the actual evaluation process and then construct the general model of the development efficiency evaluation of the mineral resources by using the hesitant fuzzy linguistic terms sets and modified TODIM. Finally, this paper takes the Panxi area as an example to study the development efficiency of vanadium-titanium magnetite. The results show that the hesitant fuzzy linguistic multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) approach can be implemented to mineral resources evaluation and resources management.
Synthesis and Characterization of Porous Fly Ash‐Based Geopolymers Using Si as Foaming Agent
Authors: Kioupis D. , Kavakakis Ch. , Tsivilis S. , Kakali G.
Published: January 2018

This paper concerns the synthesis of foamed geopolymers using fly ash and metallic Si as the binder and the porogent agent, respectively. The Taguchi approach was applied in order to study the effect of some significant synthesis parameters such as the Si foaming agent content (% w/w fly ash based), the alkali type (R : Na or K), and the alkalinity (R/Al molar ratio) of the activation solution on the compressive strength and apparent density of the foamed geopolymers. The final products were characterized by means of XRD, FTIR, and SEM, while optical microscopy was applied for the evaluation of the porosity. Lightweight geopolymers with a compressive strength of 2.08–14.88 ΜPa and an apparent density of 0.84–1.55 g/cm3 were prepared by introducing a Si content up to 0.2% w/w on fly ash basis.
Output‐Only Damage Detection of Steel Beam Using Moving Average Filter
Authors: Kordestani Hadi , Xiang Yi-Qiang , Ye Xiao-Wei
Published: January 2018

This paper provides a simple and direct output‐only baseline‐free method to detect damage from the noisy acceleration data by using Moving Average Filter (MAF). MAF is a convolution approach based on a simple filter kernel (rectangular shape) that works as an averaging method to smooth signal and remove incorporated noise. In this paper, a method is proposed to employ MAF to smooth acceleration signals obtained from a series of accelerometers and determine the damage location along a steel beam. To verify the proposed method, a simply supported beam was modelled through a 3D numerical simulation and an experimental model under a moving vehicle load. The response acceleration data was then recorded at a sampling frequency of 500 Hz. Finally, damage location was identified by applying the proposed method. The results showed that the proposed method can accurately estimate the damage location from the acceleration signal without applying any frequency filtering or baseline correction.
Effects of Qi‐Fang‐Xi‐Bi‐Granules on Cartilage Morphology and C/ebpα Promoter Methylation in Rats with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Shen Peng , Tang Dezhi , Xu Hao , Qiu Hongfu , Wu Tao , Gao Xiang
Published: January 2018

Objective. To investigate the effects of Qi‐Fang‐Xi‐Bi‐Granules (QFXBGs) on cartilage morphology and methylation of C/ebpα (CCAAT/enhancer binding proteinα) at the promoter region. Methods. Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) modeling was performed in rats in accordance with Hulth’s method, and control group received sham operation. Eight weeks after KOA modeling, the rats in the KOA modeling group were further divided into 6 groups. Each group was given the appropriate drug. After 8 weeks, half of the rats were used for Micro‐CT scan, HE staining, ABH/OG staining, immunohistochemistry, and TUNNEL staining of the knee joint tissue, and the other half were used to examine C/ebpα promoter methylation. Results. The three dose groups of QFXBGs all showed lower degrees of surface fissures and flaking, thicker cartilage layer, and restored chondrocyte and subchondral bone morphology, compared with the KOA model group. C/ebpα‐22 promoter methylation levels in the high‐ and low‐dose groups were significantly higher than that in the KOA modeling group (p < 0.05), while C/ebpα‐2 promoter methylation level in the medium‐dose group was significantly higher than that in the KOA modeling group (p < 0.05). Conclusions. QFXBGs may alleviate articular cartilage degeneration through promoting C/ebpα‐2 or C/ebpα‐22 methylation at specific promoter sites.
Predicting Erosion-Induced Water Inrush of Karst Collapse Pillars Using Inverse Velocity Theory
Authors: Yao Banghua , Chen Zhongwei , Wei Jianping , Bai Tianhang , Liu Shumin
Published: January 2018

Although the impact of Karst Collapse Pillars (KCPs) on water inrush has been widely recognized and studied, few have investigated the fluid-solid interaction, the particles migration inside KCPs, and the evolution feature of water inrush channels. Moreover, an effective approach to reliably predict the water inrush time has yet to be developed. In this work, a suite of fully coupled governing equations considering the processes of water flow, fracture erosion, and the change of rock permeability due to erosion were presented. The inverse velocity theory was then introduced to predict the water inrush time under different geological and flow conditions. The impact of four different controlling factors on the fracture geometry change, water flow, and inrush time was discussed in detail. The results showed that the inverse velocity theory was capable of predicting the occurrences of water inrush under different conditions, and the time of water inrush had a power relationship with the rock heterogeneity, water pressure, and initial particle concentration and an exponential relationship with the initial fracture apertures. The general approach developed in this work can be extended to other engineering applications such as the tunneling and tailing dam erosion.
A Type-Based Blocking Technique for Efficient Entity Resolution over Large-Scale Data
Authors: Zhu Hui-Juan , Zhu Zheng-Wei , Jiang Tong-Hai , Cheng Li , Shi Wei-Lei , Zhou Xi , Zhao Fan , Ma Bo
Published: January 2018

In data integration, entity resolution is an important technique to improve data quality. Existing researches typically assume that the target dataset only contain string-type data and use single similarity metric. For larger high-dimensional dataset, redundant information needs to be verified using traditional blocking or windowing techniques. In this work, we propose a novel ER-resolving method using a hybrid approach, including type-based multiblocks, varying window size, and more flexible similarity metrics. In our new ER workflow, we reduce the searching space for entity pairs by the constraint of redundant attributes and matching likelihood. We develop a reference implementation of our proposed approach and validate its performance using real-life dataset from one Internet of Things project. We evaluate the data processing system using five standard metrics including effectiveness, efficiency, accuracy, recall, and precision. Experimental results indicate that the proposed approach could be a promising alternative for entity resolution and could be feasibly applied in real-world data cleaning for large datasets.
Analysis of Simulated and Measured Indoor Channels for mm-Wave Beamforming Applications
Authors: Karstensen Anders , Fan Wei , Zhang Fengchun , Nielsen Jesper Ø. , Pedersen Gert F.
Published: January 2018

Ray tracing- (RT-) assisted beamforming, where beams are directly steered to dominant paths tracked by ray tracing simulations, is a promising beamforming strategy, since it avoids the time-consuming exhaustive beam searching adopted in conventional beam steering strategies. The performance of RT-assisted beamforming depends directly on how accurate the spatial profiles of the radio environment can be predicted by the RT simulation. In this paper, we investigate how ray tracing-assisted beamforming performs in both poorly furnished and richly furnished indoor environments. Single-user beamforming performance was investigated using both single beam and multiple beams, with two different power allocation schemes applied to multibeamforming. Channel measurements were performed at 28–30 GHz using a vector network analyzer equipped with a biconical antenna as the transmit antenna and a rotated horn antenna as the receive antenna. 3D ray tracing simulations were carried out in the same replicated propagation environments. Based on measurement and ray tracing simulation data, it is shown that RT-assisted beamforming performs well both for single and multibeamforming in these two representative indoor propagation environments.
A Network‐Based Approach to Modeling and Predicting Product Coconsideration Relations
Authors: Sha Zhenghui , Huang Yun , Fu Jiawei Sophia , Wang Mingxian , Fu Yan , Contractor Noshir , Chen Wei
Published: January 2018

Understanding customer preferences in consideration decisions is critical to choice modeling in engineering design. While existing literature has shown that the exogenous effects (e.g., product and customer attributes) are deciding factors in customers’ consideration decisions, it is not clear how the endogenous effects (e.g., the intercompetition among products) would influence such decisions. This paper presents a network‐based approach based on Exponential Random Graph Models to study customers’ consideration behaviors according to engineering design. Our proposed approach is capable of modeling the endogenous effects among products through various network structures (e.g., stars and triangles) besides the exogenous effects and predicting whether two products would be conisdered together. To assess the proposed model, we compare it against the dyadic network model that only considers exogenous effects. Using buyer survey data from the China automarket in 2013 and 2014, we evaluate the goodness of fit and the predictive power of the two models. The results show that our model has a better fit and predictive accuracy than the dyadic network model. This underscores the importance of the endogenous effects on customers’ consideration decisions. The insights gained from this research help explain how endogenous effects interact with exogeous effects in affecting customers’ decision‐making.
Design and Dynamic Equivalent Modeling of Double-Layer Hoop Deployable Antenna
Authors: Guo Hongwei , Shi Chuang , Li Meng , Deng Zongquan , Liu Rongqiang
Published: January 2018

This study proposes deployable units driven by elastic hinges and a double-layer hoop deployable antenna composed of these units. A rational modeling method based on the energy equivalence principle is presented to develop an equivalent model of the double-layer hoop antenna in accordance with the structural characteristics of the antenna. The equivalent beam models of the rods with elastic hinges are proposed. The relationship of geometrical and material parameters is established considering the strain energy and the kinetic energy of the periodic unit, which are the same as those of the equivalent beam in the same displacement field. The equivalent model of the antenna is obtained by assembling several equivalent beam models in the circumferential direction. The precision of the equivalent model of the antenna is acceptable as found by comparing the modal analysis results obtained through equivalent model calculation, finite element simulation, and modal test.
Scheduling Batch Processing Machine Using Max–Min Ant System Algorithm Improved by a Local Search Method
Authors: Li XiaoLin , Wang Yu
Published: January 2018

The problem of minimizing the makespan on single batch processing machine is studied in this paper. Both job sizes and processing time are nonidentical and the processing time of each batch is determined by the job with the longest processing time in the batch. Max–Min Ant System (MMAS) algorithm is developed to solve the problem. A local search method MJE (Multiple Jobs Exchange) is proposed to improve the performance of the algorithm by adjusting jobs between batches. Preliminary experiment is conducted to determine the parameters of MMAS. The performance of the proposed MMAS algorithm is compared with CPLEX as well as several other algorithms including ant cycle (AC) algorithm, genetic algorithm (GA), and two heuristics, First Fit Longest Processing Time (FFLPT) and Best Fit Longest Processing Time (BFLPT), through numerical experiment. The experiment results show that MMAS outperformed others especially for large population size.
Cuckoo Search Approach for Parameter Identification of an Activated Sludge Process
Authors: Khoja Intissar , Ladhari Taoufik , M’sahli Faouzi , Sakly Anis
Published: January 2018

A parameter identification problem for a hybrid model is presented. The latter describes the operation of an activated sludge process used for waste water treatment. Parameter identification problem can be considered as an optimization one by minimizing the error between simulation and experimental data. One of the new and promising metaheuristic methods for solving similar mathematical problem is Cuckoo Search Algorithm. It is inspired by the parasitic brood behavior of cuckoo species. To confirm the effectiveness and the efficiency of the proposed algorithm, simulation results will be compared with other algorithms, firstly, with a classical method which is the Nelder-Mead algorithm and, secondly, with intelligent methods such as Genetic Algorithm and Particle Swarm Optimization approaches.
Multiobjective Optimization, Scalarization, and Maximal Elements of Preorders
Authors: Bevilacqua Paolo , Bosi Gianni , Zuanon Magalì
Published: January 2018

We characterize the existence of (weak) Pareto optimal solutions to the classical multiobjective optimization problem by referring to the naturally associated preorders and their finite (Richter-Peleg) multiutility representation. The case of a compact design space is appropriately considered by using results concerning the existence of maximal elements of preorders. The possibility of reformulating the multiobjective optimization problem for determining the weak Pareto optimal solutions by means of a scalarization procedure is finally characterized.
Association between Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 and Uric Acid in Chinese Children and Adolescents with Idiopathic Short Stature: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wang Panpan , Ji Baolan , Shao Qian , Zhang Mei , Ban Bo
Published: January 2018

Objective. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and serum uric acid (UA) in Chinese children and adolescents with idiopathic short stature (ISS).Methods. A cross-sectional study of 91 Chinese children and adolescents with ISS was performed. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters were tested. The standard deviation score of IGF-1 (IGF-1 SDS) was calculated.Results. A univariate analysis displayed a significant positive correlation between IGF-1 SDS and UA (P=0.004). In multivariate piecewise linear regression, the levels of IGF-1 SDS increased with the elevation of UA when UA was between 168 μmol/L and 301 μmol/L (β0.010, 95% CI 0.004–0.017;P=0.002). The levels of IGF-1 SDS decreased with the elevation of UA when UA was either less than 168 μmol/L (β  −0.055, 95% CI −0.081–−0.028;P<0.001) or more than 301 μmol/L (β  −0.005, 95% CI −0.013–0.002;P=0.174).Conclusions. This study demonstrated a nonlinear relationship between IGF-1 and UA levels in Chinese children and adolescents with ISS. This finding suggests that either high or low levels of UA may have an adverse effect on IGF-1, whereas appropriate UA levels have a beneficial effect.
Dry Eye Post-Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis: Major Review and Latest Updates
Authors: Cohen Eyal , Spierer Oriel
Published: January 2018

Dry eye is one of the most common complications occurring after laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), with virtually all patients experiencing some degree of postoperative dry eye symptoms. Enhanced understanding of the pathophysiology and mechanism of dry eye development in addition to preoperative screening of patients who are prone to dry eye is essential for better patient satisfaction and for improving short-term visual outcome postoperatively. This article reviews the latest studies published on LASIK-associated dry eye, including epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, preoperative assessment, and management.
Characterization of Esthetic Orthodontic Wires Made from Glass‐Fiber‐Reinforced Thermoplastic Containing High‐Strength, Small‐Diameter Glass Fibers
Authors: Tanimoto Yasuhiro , Inami Toshihiro , Yamaguchi Masaru , Kasai Kazutaka , Hirayama Norio , Aoki Yoshio
Published: January 2018

In this work, we investigated the properties of a glass‐fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic (GFRTP) composed of small‐diameter (ϕ = 5 μm), high‐strength glass (T‐glass) fibers and polycarbonate for esthetic orthodontic wires formed using pultrusion. After fabricating such GFRTP round wires, the effects of varying fiber diameter (5 to 13 mm) on the mechanical properties, durabilities, and color stabilities were evaluated. The results showed that the mechanical properties of GFRTPs tend to increase with decreasing fiber diameter. Additionally, it was confirmed that the present GFRTP wires containing T‐glass fibers have better flexural properties than previously reported GFRTP wires containing E‐glass fibers. Meanwhile, thermocycling did not significantly affect the flexural properties of the GFRTP wires. Furthermore, the GFRTP wires showed color changes lower than the acceptable threshold level for color differences on immersion in coffee. From these results obtained in the present work, the GFRTP wires containing high‐strength glass fibers have excellent properties for orthodontic applications. Our findings suggest that the GFRTPs might be applied to all phases of orthodontic treatment because their properties can be tuned by changing the fiber properties such as fiber type and diameter.
3D Simulation of Self‐Compacting Concrete Flow Based on MRT‐LBM
Authors: Qiu Liu-Chao , Han Yu
Published: January 2018

A three‐dimensional multiple‐relaxation‐time lattice Boltzmann method (MRT‐LBM) with a D3Q27 discrete velocity model is applied for simulation of self‐compacting concrete (SCC) flows. In the present study, the SCC is assumed as a non‐Newtonian fluid, and a modified Herschel–Bulkley model is used as constitutive mode. The mass tracking algorithm was used for modeling the liquid‐gas interface. Two numerical examples of the slump test and enhanced L‐box test were performed, and the calculated results are compared with available experiments in literatures. The numerical results demonstrate the capability of the proposed MRT‐LBM in modeling of self‐compacting concrete flows.
Linear Processing Design of Amplify-and-Forward Relays for Maximizing the System Throughput
Authors: Wang Qiang , Chen Tiejun , Lan Tingting
Published: January 2018

In this paper, firstly, we study the linear processing of amplify-and-forward (AF) relays for the multiple relays multiple users scenario. We regard all relays as one special “relay”, and then the subcarrier pairing, relay selection and channel assignment can be seen as a linear processing of the special “relay”. Under fixed power allocation, the linear processing of AF relays can be regarded as a permutation matrix. Employing the partitioned matrix, we propose an optimal linear processing design for AF relays to find the optimal permutation matrix based on the sorting of the received SNR over the subcarriers from BS to relays and from relays to users, respectively. Then, we prove the optimality of the proposed linear processing scheme. Through the proposed linear processing scheme, we can obtain the optimal subcarrier paring, relay selection and channel assignment under given power allocation in polynomial time. Finally, we propose an iterative algorithm based on the proposed linear processing scheme and Lagrange dual domain method to jointly optimize the joint optimization problem involving the subcarrier paring, relay selection, channel assignment and power allocation. Simulation results illustrate that the proposed algorithm can achieve a perfect performance.
Terrorist Group Behavior Prediction by Wavelet Transform-Based Pattern Recognition
Authors: Li Ze , Sun Duoyong , Li Bo , Li Zhanfeng , Li Aobo
Published: January 2018

Predicting terrorist attacks by group networks is an important but difficult issue in intelligence and security informatics. Effective prediction of the behavior not only facilitates the understanding of the dynamics of organizational behaviors but also supports homeland security’s missions in prevention, preparedness, and response to terrorist acts. There are certain dynamic characteristics of terrorist groups, such as periodic features and correlations between the behavior and the network. In this paper, we propose a comprehensive framework that combines social network analysis, wavelet transform, and the pattern recognition approach to investigate the dynamics and eventually predict the attack behavior of terrorist group. Our ideas rely on social network analysis to model the terrorist group and extract relevant features for group behaviors. Next, based on wavelet transform, the group networks (features) are predicted and mutually checked from two aspects. Finally, based on the predicted network, the behavior of the group is recognized based on the correlation between the network and behavior. The Al-Qaeda data are investigated with the proposed framework to show the strength of our approaches. The results show that the proposed framework is highly accurate and is of practical value in predicting the behavior of terrorist groups.
Accuracy of Patient Opioid Use Reporting at the Time of Medical Cannabis License Renewal
Authors: Vigil Jacob M. , Stith Sarah S. , Reeve Anthony P.
Published: January 2018

The decision to authorize a patient for continued enrollment in a state-sanctioned medical cannabis program is difficult in part due to the uncertainty in the accuracy of patient symptom reporting and health functioning including any possible effects on other medication use. We conducted a pragmatic convenience study comparing patient reporting of previous and current prescription opioid usage to the opioid prescription records in the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) among 131 chronic pain patients (mean age = 54; 54% male) seeking the first annual renewal of their New Mexico Medical Cannabis Program (NMMCP) license. Seventy-six percent of the patients reported using prescription opioids prior to enrollment in the NMMCP, however, the PMP records showed that only 49% of the patients were actually prescribed opioids in the six months prior to enrollment. Of the 64 patients with verifiable opioid prescriptions prior to NMMCP enrollment, 35 (55%) patients reported having eliminated the use of prescription opioids by the time of license renewal. PMP records showed that 26 patients (63% of patients claiming to have eliminated the use of opioid prescriptions and 41% of all patients with verifiable preenrollment opioid use) showed no prescription opioid activity at their first annual NMMCP renewal visit.
Feedforward Harmonic Mitigation Strategy for Single-Phase Voltage Source Converter
Authors: Zhong Qing , Feng Junjie , Wang Gang , Li Haifeng
Published: January 2018

With the development of distributed generations (DGs), single-phase voltage source converter (SPVSC) has been widely used, but it brings about the problem of harmonic pollution to power grid. Hence, it is significant to explore the mechanism of harmonic injection from SPVSC and propose effective control strategies to mitigate the harmonic pollution. In this paper, a harmonic analysis model of SPVSC based on dynamic phasor (DP) has been established. With the model, the harmonics interaction between the ac side and the dc side can be analyzed with the consideration of the control strategies, which reveals the generation mechanism of the harmonics in SPVSC. Based on the mechanism, a feedforward harmonic mitigation strategy has been presented. The principle of the strategy is to add low-order harmonic signal to the PWM modulation signals to reduce the harmonic current on the ac side. The harmonic mitigation strategy not only has clear physical meaning and fast calculation, but also is robust for the uncertainty of parameters. Finally, the simulation and experiment results demonstrate the correctness of the model and the effectiveness of the harmonic mitigation strategy.
An Alternative Method for Understanding User-Chosen Passwords
Authors: Zheng Zhixiong , Cheng Haibo , Zhang Zijian , Zhao Yiming , Wang Ping
Published: January 2018

We present in this paper an alternative method for understanding user-chosen passwords. In password research, much attention has been given to increasing the security and usability of individual passwords for common users. Few of them focus on the relationships between passwords; therefore we explore the relationships between passwords: modification-based, similarity-based, and probability-based. By regarding passwords as vertices, we shed light on how to transform a dataset of passwords into a password graph. Subsequently, we introduce some novel notions from graph theory and report on a number of inner properties of passwords from the perspective of graph. With the assistance of Python Graph-tool, we are able to visualize our password graph to deliver an intuitive grasp of user-chosen passwords. Five real-world password datasets are used in our experiments to fulfill our thorough experiments. We discover that (1) some passwords in a dataset are tightly connected with each other; (2) they have the tendency to gather together as a cluster like they are in a social network; (3) password graph has logarithmic distribution for its degrees. Top clusters in password graph could be exploited to obtain the effective mangling rules for cracking passwords. Also, password graph can be utilized for a new kind of password strength meter.
A Model of Socially Connected Web Objects for IoT Applications
Authors: Ali Sajjad , Kibria Muhammad Golam , Jarwar Muhammad Aslam , Lee Hoon Ki , Chong Ilyoung
Published: January 2018

The Internet of Things (IoT) is evolving with the connected objects at an unprecedented rate, bringing about enormous opportunities for the future IoT applications as well as challenges. One of the major challenges is to handle the complexity generated by the interconnection of billions of objects. However, Social Internet of Things (SIoT), emerging from the conglomeration of IoT and social networks, has realized an efficient way to facilitate the development of complex future IoT applications. Nevertheless, to fully utilize the benefits of SIoT, a platform that can provide efficient services using social relations among heterogeneous objects is highly required. The web objects enabled IoT environment promotes SIoT features by enabling virtualization using virtual objects and supporting the modularity with microservices. To realize SIoT services, this article proposes an architecture that provides a foundation for the development of lightweight microservices based on socially connected web objects. To efficiently discover web objects and reduce the complexity of service provisioning processes, a social relationship model is presented. To realize the interoperable service operations, a semantic ontology model has been developed. Finally, to evaluate the proposed design, a prototype has been implemented based on a use case scenario.
Effect of N-Acetylcysteine on Dyslipidemia and Carbohydrate Metabolism in STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Kaga Anderson Kiyoshi , Barbanera Pedro Octavio , Carmo Nágilla Orleanne Lima do , Rosa Lucas Rodolfo de Oliveira , Fernandes Ana Angélica Henrique
Published: January 2018

Background. Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is characterized by insulin-deficient production leading to hyperglycemia, which is associated with diabetic complications such as cardiovascular diseases. Antioxidants have been proving a good alternative to diabetic complications, with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) having antioxidant characteristics. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of NAC on the lipid profile and the atherogenic index (AI) in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic rats.Method. 32 male Wistar rats (60 days of age) weighting ±250 g were randomly distributed into four groups (n=8): CTRL: control rats; CTRL+NAC: control rats treated with NAC; DM: diabetic rats; DM+NAC: diabetic rats treated with NAC. T1DM was induced using STZ (60 mg/kg, ip; single dose), and NAC (25 mg/kg/day) was administrated by gavage, for 37 days. The animals received chow and waterad libitum. After the experimental period, blood and cardiac tissue samples were collected to analyze energetic metabolism, lipid profile, and AI.Results. NAC decreased (p<0.01) glycemia, energy intake, carbohydrate, and protein consumption in diabetic rats (DM+NAC), when compared with DM, while the alimentary efficiency was improved (p<0.01) in treated diabetic rats (DM+NAC). Diabetic rats treated with NAC decreased (p<0.01) lipid profile and AI in diabetic rats (DM+NAC) when compared to DM.Conclusion. NAC improves lipid profile and decreases AI in STZ-induced diabetic rats.
Distribution of Phenolic Acids and Antioxidant Activities of Different Bran Fractions from Three Pigmented Wheat Varieties
Authors: Zhang Jinli , Ding Yan , Dong Haizhou , Hou Hanxue , Zhang Xiansheng
Published: January 2018

Phenolic acid profiles and antioxidant activities of outer bran, coarse bran, and shorts from blue, black, and purple wheat were analyzed. Phenolic acids were mainly in the bound form in pigmented wheat bran fractions. Phenolic acid content decreased in the order of outer bran, coarse bran, and shorts for the three pigmented wheat varieties. HPLC analysis of phenolic extracts demonstrated that the bound form of phenolic acids contained more ferulic, isoferulic, and p-coumaric acids compared to their free counterparts. Among the three pigmented wheat varieties, the bran fractions from blue wheat contained higher bound phenolic acids than the other two pigmented wheat bran fractions, except for purple coarse bran. The blue wheat outer bran had the highest total bound phenolic acid of 3458.71 μg/g while the purple wheat shorts had the lowest of 1730.71 μg/g. The contribution of bound phenolic acids to the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity was significantly higher than that of free phenolic acids. Blue wheat bran fractions had the highest radical scavenging activity against DPPH∙ while those of purple wheat gained the highest ABTS∙+ scavenging activity. High correlations were observed between TPC and radical scavenging capacities for DPPH and ABTS (R2>0.85, P<0.05).
Numerical Investigation of Timber Log‐Haus Walls with Steel Dovetail Reinforcements under In‐Plane Seismic Loads
Authors: Bedon Chiara , Fragiacomo Massimo
Published: January 2018

The paper investigates the structural response and vulnerability of timber log‐haus walls under in‐plane seismic loads. Careful consideration is given, in particular, to the structural efficiency of additional metal fasteners introduced within the thickness of traditional timber log‐walls. Log‐haus systems are in fact typically obtained by stacking multiple logs and generally used for residential or commercial buildings up to two levels. Their seismic characterization, however, still requires further investigations and studies, since current standards for timber structures (i.e., Eurocode 5 and Eurocode 8) do not provide specific recommendations for their seismic design. In this regard, the so‐called “steel dovetail profiles” investigated in this paper are aimed to improve the in‐plane stiffness and ultimate resistance of traditional log‐walls. In particular, taking advantage of past experiments carried out on small‐scale joint specimens, as well as past 3D numerical efforts for the same structural typology (unreinforced assemblies), full 3D solid models are described in ABAQUS to assess the potential of steel dovetail profiles, as well as to capture possible issues. Numerical simulations are proposed both for small‐scale specimens and full log‐haus assemblies, being representative of the actual loading and boundary conditions for log‐haus walls as part of a real building. As such, the effects of key input parameters and main influencing aspects are emphasized. In conclusion, it is shown that the examined reinforcing technique can offer rather stable initial stiffness and ultimate resistance increase, compared to unreinforced assemblies. At the same time, several aspects should be taken into account to properly optimize their benefits.
Numerical Study on Aerostatic Instability Modes of the Double‐Main‐Span Suspension Bridge
Authors: Zhou Qiang , Liao Haili , Wang Tong
Published: January 2018

In order to investigate the aerostatic instability mode and underlying failure mechanism of the new suspension bridge with double main spans, a corresponding program based on aerostatic load increment and two‐iteration scheme was developed with considering the effects of aerostatic and geometric nonlinearity. Three double‐main‐span suspension bridges were taken as a case study to analyze the full range of aerostatic instability with different initial attack angles. Results show that there are two aerostatic instability modes for the double‐main‐span suspension bridge, one of which is the bilateral antisymmetric instability mode and the other is the single‐span instability mode. The critical aerostatic velocity corresponds to the instability mode that occurs first, which is dependent on structural dynamic properties and initial attack angles. In addition, mechanism of the two aerostatic instability modes was discussed in detail.
Boundary Control Problem for Heat Convection Equations with Slip Boundary Condition
Authors: Mallea-Zepeda Exequiel , Lenes Eber , Valero Elvis
Published: January 2018

We analyze an optimal boundary control problem for heat convection equations in a three-dimensional domain, with mixed boundary conditions. We prove the existence of optimal solutions, by considering boundary controls for the velocity vector and the temperature. The analyzed optimal control problem includes the minimization of a Lebesgue norm between the velocity and some desired field, as well as the temperature and some desired temperature. By using the Lagrange multipliers theorem we derive an optimality system. We also give a second-order sufficient condition.
The Influence of a Thermal Treatment on the Decay Resistance of Wood via FTIR Analysis
Authors: Hao Yinan , Pan Yanfei , Du Rui , Wang Yamei , Chen Zhangjing , Zhang Xiaotao , Wang Ximing
Published: January 2018

The decay resistance of wood can be improved via a vacuum heat treatment. The amount of nutrients from cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin and amount of sugars needed by the fungi during their growth were investigated. The results showed that the absorbance peaks corresponding to absorbed CH3‐CH2‐, C=O, and the benzene ring skeleton stretching vibration all noticeably weakened with increased heat treatment. This indicated that the cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin degraded to varying degrees. The specimens with a higher initial moisture content (MC) showed greater amounts of nutrient degradation after 2 h at the same heat treatment temperature. The chemical analysis results were in good agreement with the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis results. The decay resistance tests showed that the average mass loss of the heat‐treated specimens was up to 10.8%, in contrast to 22.23% for the untreated specimens. Furthermore, the FTIR analysis of the heat and decay‐resistance test showed that the vibration wave peaks that corresponded to CH3‐CH2‐ at 2954 cm−1 showed noticeably less separation at higher heating temperature. This demonstrated that the cellulose hydrolysis in the wood decreased at higher heating temperatures, which explained why the decay resistance increased with increased heat treatment.
The Optimization of Calcareous Fly Ash‐Added Cement Containing Grinding Aids and Strength‐Improving Additives
Authors: Kaplan Gökhan , Yildizel Sadık Alper , Memiş Selçuk , Öztürk Ali Uğur
Published: January 2018

This is an experimental study which explores the physical, mechanical, and economic factors involved in the production of type CEM II A‐B/W cement. In this context, 4 cement additives were used in two different dosages (200 and 800 g/t). Class C fly ash was used for composite cement production at ratios of 5%, 20%, and 35%. It was shown that Blaine fineness increases with the increasing fly ash content. The use of fly ash at ratios of 5% and 20% was not found to have any unfavorable effects on the compressive strength at the early days. It is found that the use of additive for improving the early‐age strength is preferable when fly ash is used. It is possible to produce Class 52.5 N cement using additives to improve early strength and 20% fly ash. Loss in strength was observed in cement mortars produced using glycol‐based grinding aid. Increasing the dosage of chemical additive also led to loss in strength due to nonhomogeneous distribution of hydration products. As a result, grinding fly ash with clinker and the use of cement chemicals contribute to the cement sector in terms of sustainability. It is possible to produce cements with improved mechanical properties especially with the use of 20% fly ash.
Fulminant Diabetes in a Patient with Advanced Melanoma on Nivolumab
Authors: Chokr Nora , Farooq Hafsa , Guadalupe Elizabeth
Published: January 2018

Background. Anti-PD-1 agents were approved for advanced melanoma after the landmark trial Checkmate-037. Anti-PD-1 agents can breach immunologic tolerance. Fulminant diabetes is an immune endocrinopathy that results from a violent immune attack leading to complete destruction of pancreatic beta cells in genetically predisposed people. We present a rare case of fulminant diabetes precipitated by anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.Case. A 61-year-old male with advanced melanoma presented with a three-day history of nausea, vomiting, and malaise. He was started on nivolumab and ipilimumab. After the third dose, he developed a generalized rash and was prescribed high-dose prednisone. Labs revealed potassium 9.5 mmol/L, sodium 127 mmol/L, bicarbonate <10 mmol/L, blood glucose 1211 mg/dL, anion gap >31 mmol, arterial blood pH 7.14, and beta-hydroxybutyrate 13.7 mmol/L. He was diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis. Hemoglobin A1C was 6.9%. C-peptide was undetectable (<0.1 ng/ml). Glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies, zinc transporter 8 autoantibodies, insulin autoantibodies, islet antigen 2 autoantibodies, and islet cell antibodies were all negative.Conclusion. Anti-PD-1 immunotherapy is effective in cancers refractory to standard chemotherapy. These agents can precipitate autoimmune disorders. As the use of anti-PD-1 agents is expected to rise, physicians should be educated about the potential side effects. We recommend conducting routine blood glucose checks in patients on these agents.
The Role of C-Reactive Protein in the Early Prediction of Serious Pancreatic Fistula Development after Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Malya Fatma Umit , Hasbahceci Mustafa , Tasci Yunus , Kadioglu Huseyin , Guzel Mehmet , Karatepe Oguzhan , Dolay Kemal
Published: January 2018

Introduction. Despite recent advances in surgical techniques, pancreatic fistulas are common. We aimed to determine the role of C-reactive protein in the prediction of clinically relevant fistula development. Materials and Methods. Data from patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy between 2012 and 2015 is collected. Postoperative 1st, 3rd, and 5th day (POD1, POD3, and POD5) C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) development, other complications, length of hospital stay, and mortality were recorded. Results. Of 117 patients, 43 patients (36.8%) developed complications (including fistulas). Of the patients developing fistulas, 21 (17.9%) had POPF A, 2 (1.7%) had POPF B, and 7 (6.0%) had POPF C. POD5 CRP and POD3 CRP were shown to be significantly correlated with mortality and development of clinically relevant POPF (p=0.001 and p=0.0001, resp.) and with mortality (p=0.017), respectively. The development of clinically relevant POPFs (B and C) could be predicted with 90% sensitivity and 82.2% specificity by POD5 CRP cut-off level of 19 mg/dL and with 100% sensitivity and 63.6% specificity by the difference between POD5 and POD1 CRP cut-off level of >2.5 mg/dL. Conclusion. CRP levels can effectively predict the development of clinically relevant pancreatic fistulas.
Printable Materials for the Realization of High Performance RF Components: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Rosker Eva S. , Sandhu Rajinder , Hester Jimmy , Goorsky Mark S. , Tice Jesse
Published: January 2018

Printing methods such as additive manufacturing (AM) and direct writing (DW) for radio frequency (RF) components including antennas, filters, transmission lines, and interconnects have recently garnered much attention due to the ease of use, efficiency, and low-cost benefits of the AM/DW tools readily available. The quality and performance of these printed components often do not align with their simulated counterparts due to losses associated with the base materials, surface roughness, and print resolution. These drawbacks preclude the community from realizing printed low loss RF components comparable to those fabricated with traditional subtractive manufacturing techniques. This review discusses the challenges facing low loss RF components, which has mostly been material limited by the robustness of the metal and the availability of AM-compatible dielectrics. We summarize the effective printing methods, review ink formulation, and the postprint processing steps necessary for targeted RF properties. We then detail the structure-property relationships critical to obtaining enhanced conductivities necessary for printed RF passive components. Finally, we give examples of demonstrations for various types of printed RF components and provide an outlook on future areas of research that will require multidisciplinary teams from chemists to RF system designers to fully realize the potential for printed RF components.
Modeling and Kinematics Simulation of a Mecanum Wheel Platform in RecurDyn
Authors: Li Yunwang , Dai Sumei , Zheng Yuwei , Tian Feng , Yan Xucong
Published: January 2018

The innovative method of modeling and kinematics simulation in RecurDyn are proposed, taking a Mecanum wheel platform(MWP) for omnidirectional wheelchair as research object. In order to study the motion characteristics and mobile performance of the MWP, the virtual prototype simulation model is established in SolidWorks, and virtual prototype simulation is carried out in RecurDyn. The experience of simulation for the MWP in RecurDyn is introduced, and the simulation steps and points for attention are described detailedly. The working states of the mobile system in real environment have been simulated through virtual simulation experiments. Four typical motion models including moving forward, moving laterally, moving laterally in the direction of 45°, and rotation have been simulated in RecurDyn. The simulation results exactly reflect the motion of the MWP. By comparing the simulation results with the theoretical results, there are acceptable errors that are relatively less overall in the simulation results. The simulation results can be used to predict the performance of the platform and evaluate the design rationality, and design quality can be improved according to the exposed problem. This paper can provide reference for the simulation of mobile platform by using RecurDyn.
T‐Wave Abnormality as Electrocardiographic Signature of Myocardial Edema in Non‐ST‐Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Cardona Andrea , Zareba Karolina M. , Nagaraja Haikady N. , Schaal Stephen F. , Simonetti Orlando P. , Ambrosio Giuseppe , Raman Subha V.
Published: January 2018

Background

T‐wave abnormalities are common during the acute phase of non‐
ST
‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes, but mechanisms underlying their occurrence are unclear. We hypothesized that T‐wave abnormalities in the presentation of non‐
ST
‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes correspond to the presence of myocardial edema.

Methods and Results

Secondary analysis of a previously enrolled prospective cohort of patients presenting with non‐
ST
‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes was conducted. Twelve‐lead electrocardiography (
ECG
) and cardiac magnetic resonance with T2‐weighted imaging were acquired before invasive coronary angiography.
ECG
s were classified dichotomously (ie, ischemic versus normal/nonischemic) and nominally according to patterns of presentation: no
ST
‐ or T‐wave abnormalities, isolated T‐wave abnormality, isolated
ST
depression,
ST
depression+T‐wave abnormality. Myocardial edema was determined by expert review of T2‐weighted images. Of 86 subjects (65% male, 59.4 years), 36 showed normal/nonischemic
ECG
, 25 isolated T‐wave abnormalities, 11 isolated
ST
depression, and 14
ST
depression+T‐wave abnormality. Of 30 edema‐negative subjects, 24 (80%) had normal/nonischemic
ECG
s. Isolated T‐wave abnormality was significantly more prevalent in edema‐positive versus edema‐negative subjects (41.1% versus 6.7%,
P
=0.001). By multivariate analysis, an ischemic
ECG
showed a strong association with myocardial edema (odds ratio 12.23, 95% confidence interval 3.65‐40.94,
P
<0.0001). Among individual
ECG
profiles, isolated T‐wave abnormality was the single strongest predictor of myocardial edema (odds ratio 23.84, 95% confidence interval 4.30‐132,
P
<0.0001). Isolated T‐wave abnormality was highly specific (93%) but insensitive (43%) for detecting myocardial edema.

Conclusions

T‐wave abnormalities in the setting of non‐
ST
‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes are related to the presence of myocardial edema. High specificity of this
ECG
alteration identifies a change in ischemic myocardium associated with worse outcomes that is potentially reversible.