bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS KEMAMPUAN KOMUNIKASI MATEMATIS SISWA SMP PADA SOAL SPLDV
Authors: Hikmah Ainul , Roza Yenita , Maimunah Maimunah
Published: October 2019

Students' communication skills need to be described because they are used as communication tools in solving problems given. This study aims to find out and analyze students' mathematical communication skills and their obstacles to the topic of two-variable linear equation systems. This type of research is descriptive research. The research subjects consisted of 6 students divided in high, medium and low-ability students who were selected from 20 students, class VIII students of Riau Global IT Middle School Pekanbaru in 2018/2019. The method used is tests and interviews. The results obtained by the overall achievement were 70% of the achievement of indicators expressing mathematical ideas by speaking, writing, showing, and describing them visually, 66.7% for indicators of understanding, interpreting, and evaluating mathematical ideas presented in the form written, oral, or visual and 40% for the achievement of indicators using vocabulary, notation, and mathematical structures to represent ideas, describe relationships, and model situations. Whereas the obstacles to mathematical communication skills found are the ability of prerequisites that are not fulfilled, low reading and writing skills and low mathematical understanding of students.
Tematski portali Znameniti.hr i EminentPeople.eu – izazovi i perspektive virtualnoga umrežavanja digitalnih repozitorija
Authors: Lemić Vlatka , Kuzman Šlogar Koraljka
Published: October 2019

Kulturnom i znanstvenom sektoru informacijsko je doba donijelo nove
izazove, ali i nove mogućnosti, kako za razvoj tako i za prezentaciju svojih
primarnih djelatnosti, zahvaljujući brojnim inovativnim tehnologijama i
metodama. Još važnije, otvorilo im je nove mogućnosti umrežavanja putem
međuinstitucionalnih i multidisciplinarnih suradničkih projekata, temeljenih na
povezivanju istovrsnih potreba, napora i ideja. Cilj je ovoga rada predstaviti
i problematizirati mogućnosti suradnje u virtualnom okruženju između srodnih
ustanova, okupljenih oko zajedničkoga projekta razvoja suradničkoga portala
tematski vezanoga uz znamenite i zaslužne osobe. Projekt ćemo predstaviti kroz
njegove tri temeljne razvojne faze: od samoga začetka ideje i pokretanja
nacionalnoga pilot-projekta Znameniti i zaslužni Hrvati koji je
rezultirao stvaranjem portala Znameniti.hr, preko jednogodišnjega europskog
projekta koji je financirao konzorcij DARIAH-ERIC, omogućivši uspostavu
regionalne suradnje i kreiranja portala na domeni EminentPeople.eu, do pripreme
novoga međunarodnog projekta kroz razmatranja europske perspektive ovoga
portala.
Efektifitas Penerapan Metode Family-Centered Care terhadap Pasien Anak dengan Stress Hospitalisasi
Authors: Wariantini Hadi Yeni Mila , Munir Zainal , Siam Wiwin Nur
Published: October 2019

Orang tua kurang memahami dan cenderung mempercayakan sepenuhnya kesembuhan anak mereka pada perawat dan dokter yang menanganinya. Tujuan penelitian mengetahui efektifitas penerapan metode Family Centered Care terhadap pasien anak dengan stress hospitalisasi di Puskesmas Prajekan Bondowoso. Desain penelitian pola pre-eksperimental tipe one-group pretest-posttest dengan jumlah sampel 35 responden dengan teknik sampling aksidental. Kemudian dianalisis dengan uji paired t-test. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan sesudah diberi perlakuan mengalami penurunan, dilihat dari uji statistik ρ value (0,000<0,05). Disimpulkan ada pengaruh penerapan metode Family Centered Care terhadap pasien anak dengan stress hospitalisasi di Puskesmas Prajekan Bondowoso
Performance Budgeting in Context: An Analysis of Italian Central Administrations
Authors: Bonomi Savignon Andrea , Costumato Lorenzo , Marchese Benedetta
Published: October 2019

The impact of financial austerity in many countries and the need to set the direction for governments have radically changed several aspects of Public sector management (Rubin and Willoughby 2014; Anessi-Pessina et al. 2016). A central component of this effort to transform public management involves using strategic planning and performance measures for budgeting decisions (Joyce 1997). Over the last decade, there has been an increase in the use of performance budgeting at the national as well as at subnational and local level, with varying approaches and results across countries (Bleyen et al. 2017; OECD 2017). This article analyzes the dynamics of strategic planning and performance management practices in relation to the budgeting processes in the context of the Italian central government, with the aim of evaluating whether a predominant integration model is apparent in relation to those used in different countries at the OECD level. Starting in 2009, reforms concerning the implementation of performance management tools in the Italian public sector have been promoted and revised, although the need to fully integrate the performance and budgeting processes looks urgent. Based on data from Italian Ministries, this article analyzes the type of relationship and the degree of coherence between adopted strategic plans and budgets. The results show the persistence of a prevalent misalignment between planning and budgeting. Data that were collected from the analysis of strategic plans and budgets from ten Ministries depict a patchy situation, in which some ministries integrate the processes defining a consistent and comparable model, while some others do not. In the conclusions, areas for improvement of the process are identified, while providing policy implications.
Evaluation of Struvite Recovered from Swine Wastewater as an Alternative Phosphorus Source in Broiler Feed
Authors: Kim Mijung , Shim Soomin , Reza Arif , Kim Seungsoo , Won Seunggun , Jung Baedong , Kim Jinsoo , Ra Changsix
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of reutilizing phosphorus (P) recovered as struvite from swine wastewater as an alternative to commercial P sources in broiler feed. The recovered struvite was pre-treated as microwave irradiated struvite (MS) and incinerated struvite (IS) to reduce the NH4-N concentration in recovered struvite before application. A preliminary study on the growth performance and blood metabolites of broiler chickens was then performed to assess the effect of MS and IS by comparing with commercial monobasic dicalcium phosphate (MDCP, control). A total of 204 male Ross 308 broiler chickens (mean body weight (BW) of 80 ± 5 g) were randomly allotted to each of 12 pens. The growth performance and blood metabolites analysis of broiler chickens showed no significant difference among the test materials (p > 0.05). However, the apparent total tract digestibility of crude fat was significantly higher in MS and IS treated groups compared to the control (p < 0.05). The digestibility of crude ash in control was significantly lower than that in MS (p < 0.05). The results suggested that P recovered from swine wastewater as struvite can be reutilized as an alternative P source in broiler feed without adverse effects on growth performance and blood metabolites through proper pre-treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the potential of using struvite in animal feed. This study provides primary evidence for the safety and efficacy of using pre-treated struvite as an alternative source of P in animal feed and will encourage further studies with more rigorous design.
Breeding for Enhancing Legumovirus Resistance in Mungbean: Current Understanding and Future Directions
Authors: Singh Chandra Mohan , Singh Poornima , Pratap Aditya , Pandey Rakesh , Purwar Shalini , Vibha  , Douglas Colin Andrew , Baek Kwang-Hyun , Mishra Awdhesh Kumar
Published: October 2019

Yellow mosaic disease (YMD) affects several types of leguminous crops, including the Vigna species, which comprises a number of commercially important pulse crops. YMD is characterized by the formation of a bright yellow mosaic pattern on the leaves; in severe forms, this pattern can also be seen on stems and pods. This disease leads to tremendous yield losses, even up to 100%, in addition to deterioration in seed quality. Symptoms of this disease are similar among affected plants; YMD is not limited to mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) and also affects other collateral and alternate hosts. In the last decade, rapid advancements in molecular detection techniques have been made, leading to an improved understanding of YMD-causing viruses. Three distinct bipartite begomoviruses, namely, Mungbean Yellow Mosaic India Virus (MYMIV), Mungbean Yellow Mosaic Virus (MYMV), and Horsegram Yellow Mosaic Virus (HgYMV), are known to cause YMD in Vigna spp. Vigna crops serve as an excellent protein source for vegetarians worldwide; moreover, they aid in improving soil health by fixing atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic association with Rhizobium bacteria. The loss in the yield of these short-duration crops due to YMD, thus, needs to be checked. This review highlights the discoveries that have been made regarding various aspects of YMD affecting mungbean, including the determination of YMD-causing viruses and strategies used to develop high-yielding YMD-resistant mungbean varieties that harness the potential of related Vigna species through the use of different omics approaches.
Varietal Change Dominates Adoption of Technology in Spanish Citrus Production
Authors: de-Miguel Maria Dolores , Caballero Pedro , Fernández-Zamudio Maria Angeles
Published: October 2019

After describing the technology adopted and its influence on production and yield, the importance of varietal change, which is essential to meet demand, is underscored. The choice of a variety by growers depends on the expected price it will fetch along with the commercial and crop characteristics and the quality. Survival of a variety in the marketplace depends on the performance as expected and on the existence of other more competitive varieties. First, in Spanish citrus farming, the navel group predominate, with 41.10% of orange production, in which the main varieties are “Navelina” and “Lanelate.” The group of late white oranges is also important. The mandarin orange group includes clementines and mandarin hybrids; lemons also feature prominently. In sweet oranges, the navel group and late white group has often been renewed with varieties from the same group. In very early clementines varieties, the survival of which is usually short, the supply of new varieties is excessive. Because of its commercial characteristics and harvesting time, the group with the highest expansion possibilities are the mandarin hybrids which are in demand by hypermarkets. In the introduction of varieties, in recent years we have seen varietal clubs being established, with area control of each variety and very strict rules on cultivation and marketing.
Iron-Binding and Anti-Fenton Properties of Novel Amino Acid-Derived Cyclic Imide Dioximes
Authors: Mravljak Janez , Jakopin Žiga
Published: October 2019

We present a novel route for the preparation of amino acid-derived cyclic imide dioxime derivatives. Readily accessible amino acids were conveniently converted to their corresponding cyclic imide dioximes in simple synthetic steps. The aim of this work was to describe and compare the iron-chelating and antioxidant properties of synthesized compounds in relation to their molecular structure, and in particular, which of those features are essential for iron(II)-chelating ability. The glutarimide dioxime moiety has been established as an iron(II)-binding motif and imparts potent anti-Fenton properties to the compounds. Compound 3 was shown to strongly suppress hydroxyl radical formation by preventing iron cycling via Fe-complexation. These findings provide insights into the structural requirements for achieving anti-Fenton activity and highlight the potential use of glutarimide dioximes as antioxidants.
A New Natural Antioxidant Biomaterial from Cinnamomum osmophloeum Kanehira Leaves Represses Melanogenesis and Protects against DNA Damage
Authors: Ho Yung-Shu , Wu Jane-Yii , Chang Chi-Yue
Published: October 2019

Cinnamomoum osmophloeum Kanehira (COK) is an indigenous tree species in Taiwan. Chemical compositions, antioxidant activity, mushroom tyrosinase inhibition, melanin synthesis repression, and protection against DNA damage of hydrosol from the COK leaves by steam distillation were examined. We performed 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging, metal ion chelating, reducing power, and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assays and determined the correlations between total phenolic contents and antioxidant activities. The findings showed that the anti-oxidative properties of COK hydrosol are closely correlated with their phenol contents. Additionally, the major constituents of hydrosol, i.e., cinnamaldehyde and benzaldehyde, had dose-dependent anti-tyrosinase effects against both monophenolase and diphenolase activities. GC-MS analysis revealed that the major bioactive components of hydrosol were trans-cinnamaldehyde (87.7%), benzaldehyde (7.0%), and cinnamyl acetate (5.3%). Moreover, we found that the hydrosol with the presence of benzaldehyde is more potent than pure cinnamaldehyde, and enhances the tyrosinase inhibitory activity of hydrosol. In kinetic analyses, Lineweaver–Burk plots and replots showed that COK hydrosol is a mixed-type inhibitor. Additionally, we found that very low doses of COK hydrosol repressed α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone-induced synthesis of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, leading to decreased melanin synthesis in B16-F10 melanoma cells. These results demonstrated that production of hydrosol from COK leaves using steam distillation may provide a safe and efficacious source of skin-whitening agents for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications, with antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, anti-melanogenesis, and DNA protective activities.
Role of Heme Oxygenase as a Modulator of Heme-Mediated Pathways
Authors: Duvigneau J. Catharina , Esterbauer Harald , Kozlov Andrey V.
Published: October 2019

The heme oxygenase (HO) system is essential for heme and iron homeostasis and necessary for adaptation to cell stress. HO degrades heme to biliverdin (BV), carbon monoxide (CO) and ferrous iron. Although mostly beneficial, the HO reaction can also produce deleterious effects, predominantly attributed to excessive product formation. Underrated so far is, however, that HO may exert effects additionally via modulation of the cellular heme levels. Heme, besides being an often-quoted generator of oxidative stress, plays also an important role as a signaling molecule. Heme controls the anti-oxidative defense, circadian rhythms, activity of ion channels, glucose utilization, erythropoiesis, and macrophage function. This broad spectrum of effects depends on its interaction with proteins ranging from transcription factors to enzymes. In degrading heme, HO has the potential to exert effects also via modulation of heme-mediated pathways. In this review, we will discuss the multitude of pathways regulated by heme to enlarge the view on HO and its role in cell physiology. We will further highlight the contribution of HO to pathophysiology, which results from a dysregulated balance between heme and the degradation products formed by HO.
Lithium Distribution in Structured Graphite Anodes Investigated by Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Zheng Yijing , Pfäffl Lisa , Seifert Hans Jürgen , Pfleging Wilhelm
Published: October 2019

For the development of thick film graphite electrodes, a 3D battery concept is applied, which significantly improves lithium-ion diffusion kinetics, high-rate capability, and cell lifetime and reduces mechanical tensions. Our current research indicates that 3D architectures of anode materials can prevent cells from capacity fading at high C-rates and improve cell lifespan. For the further research and development of 3D battery concepts, it is important to scientifically understand the influence of laser-generated 3D anode architectures on lithium distribution during charging and discharging at elevated C-rates. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is applied post-mortem for quantitatively studying the lithium concentration profiles within the entire structured and unstructured graphite electrodes. Space-resolved LIBS measurements revealed that less lithium-ion content could be detected in structured electrodes at delithiated state in comparison to unstructured electrodes. This result indicates that 3D architectures established on anode electrodes can accelerate the lithium-ion extraction process and reduce the formation of inactive materials during electrochemical cycling. Furthermore, LIBS measurements showed that at high C-rates, lithium-ion concentration is increased along the contour of laser-generated structures indicating enhanced lithium-ion diffusion kinetics for 3D anode materials. This result is correlated with significantly increased capacity retention. Moreover, the lithium-ion distribution profiles provide meaningful information about optimizing the electrode architecture with respect to film thickness, pitch distance, and battery usage scenario.
An Investigation on Base Metal Block Shear Strength of Ferritic Stainless Steel Welded Connection
Authors: Yuk SimChul , An WooRam , Hwang BoKyung , Kim TaeSoo
Published: October 2019

This study develops a finite element analysis model to predict the ultimate strength of the base metal block shear fracture based on previous experimental results and compares the experimental results with the analysis results to verify the effectiveness of the analysis model. This study also analyzed additional variables of the welding direction and weld length on the applied load to investigate the structural behaviors and fracture conditions. In addition, predicted strength according to the analysis results were compared with those by the current design equations, and the equations proposed by previous researchers. As a result, the design formula by the current design equations, such as Korea Building Code (KBC)/American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) and European Code (EC3), and the equations proposed by Oosterhof and Driver underestimated the base metal block shear strength of ferritic stainless steel by up to 42%. Equations suggested by Topkaya and Lee et al. for carbon steel and austenitic stainless steel welded connections provided more accurate strength predictions, while they did not reflect the difference of material properties. Therefore, this study proposed a modified strength equation for ferritic stainless steel welded connection with base metal block shear fracture considering the stress triaxiality effect of the welded connection and the material properties of ferritic stainless steel.
Sustainable Management of the Plastic-Rich Fraction of WEEE by Utilization as a Reducing Agent in Metallurgical Processes
Authors: Lotfian Samira , Lennartsson Andreas , Jokilaakso Ari
Published: October 2019

In modern society, there is a fast growth in the production of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE); however, rapid growth results in the frequent discarding of this equipment. During the treatment of discarded materials, a stream is generated that contains a high fraction of plastic materials, but also metals and oxides. This stream, which is called shredder residue material (SRM), is heterogeneous, which limits its recycling options. Utilizing this material in metallurgical processes allows the plastic fraction to be used as a reductant and energy source and the metallic fraction to be recycled and returned to the production of EEE. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of plastic-containing materials, especially SRM, as alternative reductants in metallurgical processes. The first step was to compare the thermal conversion characteristics of plastic-containing materials to the currently used reducing agent, i.e., coal. Three main candidates, polyurethane (PUR), polyethylene (PE), and SRM, were studied using a drop tube furnace and an optical single-particle burner. PE had the highest volatile content and the fastest conversion time, whereas PUR had the longest conversion time. Thereafter, plastic materials were tested at the industrial scale through injection to the zinc fuming process at the Boliden Rönnskär smelter. During the industrial trial, the amount of coal that was injected was reduced and substituted with plastic material. The results indicate the possibility of reducing the coal injection rate in favor of partial substitution with plastic materials.
A Study of Colormaps in Network Visualization
Authors: Karim Raja Mubashar , Kwon Oh-Hyun , Park Chanhee , Lee Kyungwon
Published: October 2019

Color is a widely used visual channel for encoding data in visualization design. It is important to select the appropriate type of color mapping to better understand the data. While several studies have investigated the effects of colormaps in various types of information visualization, there have been no studies on their effects on network visualization. Thus, in this paper, we investigate the effects of several colormaps in network visualization using node-link diagrams. Specifically, we compare four different single- and multi-hue colormaps for node attributes, and evaluate their effectiveness in terms of task completion time and correctness rate. Our results show that participants complete their tasks significantly faster with blue (single-hue, sequential) as compared to viridis (multi-hue, sequential), RdYlBu (divergent, red-yellow-blue), and jet (rainbow) colormaps. Additionally, the overall correctness rate shows significant differences between colormaps, with viridis being the least error-prone among the colormaps studied.
Stretched Exponential Survival Analysis for South Korean Females
Authors: Weon Byung Mook
Published: October 2019

South Korea has recently exhibited a remarkable rapid increase in female lifespan. Here, a mathematical analysis is suggested for a clear interpretation of current trends in female lifespan in South Korea. To mathematically analyze life tables, a modified stretched exponential function is employed and demonstrated to estimate current trends of female lifespan in South Korea based on reliable life tables from 1987 to 2016 taken from the Korean Statistical Information Service. This methodology enables us to perform quantitative and comparative analyses of female lifespan in South Korea with representative industrialized countries such as Japan, France, Australia, Switzerland, UK, Sweden, and USA. This analysis provides quantitative and comparative evidence that South Korea has the highest increase rate of female lifespan over the past three decades. Further application would be feasible for a better estimation of human aging statistics.
Life Cycle Assessment on a Biorefinery Approach to Pyrolysis Oil for Wood Modification Treatment
Authors: Spekreijse Jurjen , Weide Tobias , Hageman Simon P.W. , Reumerman Patrick , Wetter Christof , Brügging Elmar , Vis Martijn
Published: October 2019

The use of pyrolysis-based wood conservation is a good alternative for the use of fossil-based creosotes. In this life cycle assessment (LCA) the environmental impact of a biorefinery approach of pyrolysis oil from forestry residues or maize digestate and its application as wood modification treatment is determined. The damage to ecosystems, damage to human health and the increased resource scarcity is studied using an attributional LCA and a sensitivity and uncertainty analysis. Based on data from an existing pyrolysis plant, it is shown that pyrolysis oil from maize digestate has a significantly higher environmental impact than pyrolysis oil from forestry residues. This is due to a lower energetic yield and a higher ash content in the feedstock. The biorefinery approach of using pyrolytic sugars as wood modification treatment shows significantly lower environmental impacts than the fossil-based creosotes, regardless of the selected end of life scenario, due to a lower toxicity and by a reduction of 82% of greenhouse gases. This shows that in addition to energy production, pyrolysis oil can be applied as biobased chemicals and materials, developing a sustainable platform based on pyrolysis oil.
Mass Transfer of Microscale Light-Emitting Diodes to Unusual Substrates by Spontaneously Formed Vertical Tethers During Chemical Lift-Off
Authors: Kim Ja-Yeon , Cho Yoo-Hyun , Park Hyun-Sun , Ryou Jae-Hyun , Kwon Min-Ki
Published: October 2019

A much simplified method for transferring Gallium nitride (GaN) light emitting didoes (LEDs) to an unusual substrate, such as glass, Si, polyethylene terephthalate, or polyurethane, was demonstrated with spontaneously formed vertical tethers during chemical lift-off (CLO), without requiring a sacrificial layer or extra process steps. The LED arrays resided on a stamp that was coated with an adhesive layer. After the layer with the LEDs was transferred to the new substrates, the stamp was removed by acetone to complete the preparation. Over 3 × 3 cm2 LED arrays transferred to various substrates without any damage and misorientation. We also found that the optical and electrical characteristics improved after transfer due to decease in built-in stress. This simple and practical method is expected to greatly facilitate the development of transferrable full color GaN microLEDs on various substrates with either greatly reduced or no damage.
Ultrahigh Resolution Polarization Sensitive Optical Coherence Tomography of the Human Cornea with Conical Scanning Pattern and Variable Dispersion Compensation
Authors: Beer Florian , Patil Rahul P. , Sinha-Roy Abhijit , Baumann Bernhard , Pircher Michael , Hitzenberger Christoph K.
Published: October 2019

Noninvasive corneal imaging is essential for the diagnosis and treatment control of various diseases affecting the anterior segment of the eye. This study presents an ultrahigh resolution polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography instrument operating in the 840 nm wavelength band that incorporates a conical scanning design for large field of view imaging of the cornea. As the conical scanning introduces a dispersion mismatch depending on the scanning angle, this study implemented variable, location dependent, numerical dispersion compensation in order to achieve high axial resolution throughout the imaged volume. The corneal images were recorded in vivo in healthy volunteers showing various details of corneal structures.
Fault Inference of Electronic Equipment Based on Multi-State Fuzzy Bayesian Network
Authors: Wang Ling , Zhou Dongfang , Zhang Hao , Tian Hui , Zou Caihong , Wang Xiushan
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study is to extend the directive function of fault inference in test and diagnosis system for electronic equipment. There are many problems, such as presence of various types of uncertain information in test set of electronic equipment, frequent degenerative faults, complex relationships of modules, multiple fault modes, existence of fuzzy interval in fault state, and interaction of each module. In view of these problems, the total membership degree of faults is commonly synthesized based on weights of multiple test indicators and normal membership degree of a single indicator. On this basis, this study builds the model for inferring fault states of leaf and root nodes based on multi-state triangular fuzzy Bayesian network (BN). Finally, this research carried out feasibility analysis on fault inference of a super-heterodyne receiver, thus verifying the efficiency and applicability of the method proposed in the study.
Small-Signal Modeling and Analysis for a Wirelessly Distributed and Enabled Battery Energy Storage System of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Cao Yuan , Qahouq Jaber Abu
Published: October 2019

This paper presents small-signal modeling, analysis, and control design for wireless distributed and enabled battery energy storage system (WEDES) for electric vehicles (EVs), which can realize the active state-of-charge (SOC) balancing between each WEDES battery module and maintain operation with a regulated bus voltage. The derived small-signal models of the WEDES system consist of several sub-models, such as the DC-DC boost converter model, wireless power transfer model, and the models of control compensators. The small-signal models are able to provide deep insight analysis of the steady-state and dynamics of the WEDES battery system and provide design guidelines or criteria of the WEDES controller. The derived small-signal models and controller design are evaluated and validated by both MATLAB®/SIMULINK simulation and hardware experimental prototype.
Monitoring of Fatigue Crack Propagation by Damage Index of Ultrasonic Guided Waves Calculated by Various Acoustic Features
Authors: Jin Hashen , Yan Jiajia , Li Weibin , Qing Xinlin
Published: October 2019

Under cyclic and repetitive loads, fatigue cracks can be further propagated to a crucial level by accumulation, causing detrimental effects to structural integrity and potentially resulting in catastrophic consequences. Therefore, there is a demand to develop a reliable technique to monitor fatigue cracks quantitatively at an early stage. The objective of this paper is to characterize the propagation of fatigue cracks using the damage index (DI) calculated by various acoustic features of ultrasonic guided waves. A hybrid DI scheme for monitoring fatigue crack propagation is proposed using the linear fusion of damage indices (DIs) and differential fusion of DIs. An experiment is conducted on an SMA490BW steel plate-like structure to verify the proposed hybrid DIs scheme. The experimental results show that the hybrid DIs from various acoustic features can be used to quantitatively characterize the propagation of fatigue cracks, respectively. It is found that the fused DIs calculated by the acoustic features in the frequency domain have an improved reliable manner over those of the time domain. It is also clear that the linear and differential amplitude fusion DIs in the frequency domain are more promising to indicate the propagation of fatigue cracks quantitatively than other fused ones.
Monin–Obukhov Similarity Theory for Modeling of Wind Turbine Wakes under Atmospheric Stable Conditions: Breakdown and Modifications
Authors: Han Xingxing , Liu Deyou , Xu Chang , Shen Wenzhong , Li Linmin , Xue Feifei
Published: October 2019

Monin–Obukhov similarity theory (MOST) overestimates the mean vertical velocity gradient in some atmospheric stable conditions, i.e., Richardson number R f < 0.25 . To obtain a given hub-height inflow velocity for a certain roughness length, this overestimated velocity gradient underpredicts the friction wind speed and the turbulence intensity, potentially influencing wake modeling of a wind turbine. This work investigates the side effects of the breakdown of MOST on wake modeling under stable conditions and makes some modifications to the flow similarity functions to eliminate these side effects. Based on a field measurement in a wind farm, we first show that MOST predicts a larger velocity gradient for the atmospheric stability parameter ζ > 0.1 and proposes new flow similarity functions without constraining R f to limit the overestimated velocity gradient. Next, different turbulence models based on MOST and a modified one based on the new similarity functions are investigated through numerical simulations. These turbulence models are combined with the actuator disk model (AD) and Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations (RANS) to model wind turbine wakes under stable conditions. As compared to measurements, numerical results show that turbulence models based on MOST result in a larger wake deficit and a slower wake recovery rate with a root-mean-squared error (RSME) of wake deficit in the range of 0.07 to 0.20. This overestimated wake effect is improved by applying the new similarity functions, and the RSME of wake deficit is reduced by 0.05 on average.
Time-Dependent Probabilistic Model for Hierarchical Structure in Failure Mode and Effect Analysis
Authors: Jang Hyeon-ae , Min Seungsik
Published: October 2019

Failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) is a structured technique for identifying risks that may occur during a given stage of a system’s life cycle. However, the use of the risk priority number (RPN) in traditional FMEA results in difficulties with regard to quantification of the degree of risk in the hierarchical failure structure. This study proposes the use of a hierarchical time-dependent FMEA approach to overcome the limitations encountered during the implementation of traditional FMEA approaches. In place of the RPN, a probabilistic loss model is developed under a hierarchical structure considering the elapsed time from the failure-cause (FC) to the system failure. By assuming exponential and case functions for each occurrence and detection time instant, the expected loss corresponding to each FC can be evaluated. As a result of the practical application of the time-dependent probabilistic model through the numerical example, we could reasonably evaluate the risk from the cause of failure in the hierarchical structure in terms of economic loss.
A Novel Plant Propagation-Based Cascaded Fractional Order PI Controller for Optimal Operation of Grid-Connected Single-Stage Three-Phase Solar Photovoltaic System
Authors: Zamee Muhammad Ahsan , Won Dongjun
Published: October 2019

Grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) inverters are gaining attention all over the world. The optimal controller setting is key to the successful operation of a grid-connected PV system. In this paper, a novel plant propagation algorithm-based fractional order proportional-integrator (FOPI) controller for cascaded DC link voltage and inner current control of a grid-connected PV controller has been proposed, which outperforms particle swarm optimization-based PI and elephant herding optimization-based FOPI in terms of multicriteria-based analysis. The performance of the proposed controller also has been measured in terms of total harmonic distortion to maintain the appropriate power quality. Also, the proposed controllers were tested under various solar irradiance and voltage sag conditions to show the effectiveness and robustness of the controllers. The whole system is developed in OPAL-RT using MATLAB/Simulink and RT-LAB as a machine-in-loop (MIL) system to validate the performance in real time.
Mathematical Apparatus of Optimal Decision-Making Based on Vector Optimization
Authors: Mashunin Yury K.
Published: October 2019

We present a problem of “acceptance of an optimal solution” as a mathematical model in the form of a vector problem of mathematical programming. For the solution of such a class of problems, we show the theory of vector optimization as a mathematical apparatus of acceptance of optimal solutions. Methods of solution of vector problems are directed to problem solving with equivalent criteria and with the given priority of a criterion. Following our research, the analysis and problem definition of decision making under the conditions of certainty and uncertainty are presented. We show the transformation of a mathematical model under the conditions of uncertainty into a model under the conditions of certainty. We present problems of acceptance of an optimal solution under the conditions of uncertainty with data that are represented by up to four parameters, and also show geometrical interpretation of results of the decision. Each numerical example includes input data (requirement specification) for modeling, transformation of a mathematical model under the conditions of uncertainty into a model under the conditions of certainty, making optimal decisions with equivalent criteria (solving a numerical model), and, making an optimal decision with a given priority criterion.
Formation of Drug-Participating Catanionic Aggregates for Extended Delivery of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs from Contact Lenses
Authors: Torres-Luna Cesar , Koolivand Abdollah , Fan Xin , Agrawal Niti R. , Hu Naiping , Zhu Yuli , Domszy Roman , Briber Robert M. , Wang Nam Sun , Yang Arthur
Published: October 2019

This paper focuses on extending drug release duration from contact lenses by incorporating catanionic aggregates. The aggregates consist of a long-chain cationic surfactant, i.e., cetalkonium chloride (CKC), and an oppositely charged anti-inflammatory amphiphilic drug. We studied three non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs with different octanol–water partition coefficients; diclofenac sodium (DFNa), flurbiprofen sodium (FBNa), and naproxen sodium (NPNa). Confirmation of catanionic aggregate formation in solution was determined by steady and dynamic shear rheology measurements. We observed the increased viscosity, shear thinning, and viscoelastic behavior characteristic of wormlike micelles; the rheological data are reasonably well described using a Maxwellian fluid model with a single relaxation time. In vitro release experiments demonstrated that the extension in the drug release time is dependent on the ability of a drug to form viscoelastic catanionic aggregates. Such aggregates retard the diffusive transport of drug molecules from the contact lenses. Our study revealed that the release kinetics depends on the CKC concentration and the alkyl chain length of the cationic surfactant. We demonstrated that more hydrophobic drugs such as diclofenac sodium show a more extended release than less hydrophobic drugs such as naproxen sodium.
Survival Comparison between Melanoma Patients Treated with Patient-Specific Dendritic Cell Vaccines and Other Immunotherapies Based on Extent of Disease at the Time of Treatment
Authors: Dillman Robert Owen , Hsieh Candace
Published: October 2019

Encouraging survival was observed in single arm and randomized phase 2 trials of patient-specific dendritic cell vaccines presenting autologous tumor antigens from autologous cancer cells that were derived from surgically resected metastases whose cells were self-renewing in vitro. Based on most advanced clinical stage and extent of tumor at the time of treatment, survival was best in patients classified as recurrent stage 3 without measurable disease. Next best was in stage 4 without measurable disease, and the worst survival was for measurable stage 4 disease. In this study, the survival of these patients was compared to the best contemporary controls that were gleaned from the clinical trial literature. The most comparable controls typically were from clinical trials testing other immunotherapy approaches. Even though contemporary controls typically had better prognostic features, median and/or long-term survival was consistently better in patients treated with this dendritic cell vaccine, except when compared to anti-programmed death molecule 1 (anti-PD-1). The clinical benefit of this patient-specific vaccine appears superior to a number of other immunotherapy approaches, but it is more complex to deliver than anti-PD-1 while equally effective. However, there is a strong rationale for combining such a product with anti-PD-1 in the treatment of patients with metastatic melanoma.
Targeting Lysophosphatidic Acid in Cancer: The Issues in Moving from Bench to Bedside
Authors: Xu Yan
Published: October 2019

Since the clear demonstration of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA)’s pathological roles in cancer in the mid-1990s, more than 1000 papers relating LPA to various types of cancer were published. Through these studies, LPA was established as a target for cancer. Although LPA-related inhibitors entered clinical trials for fibrosis, the concept of targeting LPA is yet to be moved to clinical cancer treatment. The major challenges that we are facing in moving LPA application from bench to bedside include the intrinsic and complicated metabolic, functional, and signaling properties of LPA, as well as technical issues, which are discussed in this review. Potential strategies and perspectives to improve the translational progress are suggested. Despite these challenges, we are optimistic that LPA blockage, particularly in combination with other agents, is on the horizon to be incorporated into clinical applications.
Revising PTEN in the Era of Immunotherapy: New Perspectives for an Old Story
Authors: Piro Geny , Carbone Carmine , Carbognin Luisa , Pilotto Sara , Ciccarese Chiara , Iacovelli Roberto , Milella Michele , Bria Emilio , Tortora Giampaolo
Published: October 2019

Immunotherapy has emerged as the new therapeutic frontier of cancer treatment, showing enormous survival benefits in multiple tumor diseases. Although undeniable success has been observed in clinical trials, not all patients respond to treatment. Different concurrent conditions can attenuate or completely abrogate the usefulness of immunotherapy due to the activation of several escape mechanisms. Indeed, the tumor microenvironment has an almost full immunosuppressive profile, creating an obstacle to therapeutic treatment. Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) governs a plethora of cellular processes, including maintenance of genomic stability, cell survival/apoptosis, migration, and metabolism. The repertoire of PTEN functions has recently been expanded to include regulation of the tumor microenvironment and immune system, leading to a drastic reevaluation of the canonical paradigm of PTEN action with new potential implications for immunotherapy-based approaches. Understanding the implication of PTEN in cancer immunoediting and immune evasion is crucial to develop new cancer intervention strategies. Recent evidence has shown a double context-dependent role of PTEN in anticancer immunity. Here we summarize the current knowledge of PTEN’s role at a crossroads between tumor and immune compartments, highlighting the most recent findings that are likely to change future clinical practice.
Increased Expression and Activation of FAK in Small-Cell Lung Cancer Compared to Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Aboubakar Nana Frank , Hoton Delphine , Ambroise Jérôme , Lecocq Marylène , Vanderputten Marie , Sibille Yves , Vanaudenaerde Bart , Pilette Charles , Bouzin Caroline , Ocak Sebahat
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) plays a crucial role in cancer development and progression. FAK is overexpressed and/or activated and associated with poor prognosis in various malignancies. However, in lung cancer, activated FAK expression and its prognostic value are unknown. Methods: FAK and activated FAK (phospho-FAK Y397) expressions were analyzed by multiplex immunofluorescence staining in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from 95 non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and 105 small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients, and 37 healthy donors. The FAK staining score was defined as the percentage (%) of FAK-stained tumor area multiplied by (×) FAK mean intensity and phospho-FAK staining score as the (% of phospho-FAK-stained area of low intensity × 1) + (% of phospho-FAK-stained area of medium intensity × 2) + (% of the phospho-FAK-stained area of high intensity × 3). FAK and phospho-FAK staining scores were compared between normal, NSCLC, and SCLC tissues. They were also tested for correlations with patient characteristics and clinical outcomes. Results: The median follow-up time after the first treatment was 42.5 months and 6.4 months for NSCLC and SCLC patients, respectively. FAK and phospho-FAK staining scores were significantly higher in lung cancer than in normal lung and significantly higher in SCLC compared to NSCLC tissues (p < 0.01). Moreover, the ratio between phospho-FAK and FAK staining scores was significantly higher in SCLC than in NSCLC tissues (p < 0.01). However, FAK and activated FAK expression in lung cancer did not correlate with recurrence-free and overall survival in NSCLC and SCLC patients. Conclusions: Total FAK and activated FAK expressions are significantly higher in lung cancer than in normal lung, and significantly higher in SCLC compared to NSCLC, but are not prognostic biomarkers in this study.
Inhibition of TFF3 Enhances Sensitivity—and Overcomes Acquired Resistance—to Doxorubicin in Estrogen Receptor-Positive Mammary Carcinoma
Authors: Poh Han , Chiou Yi , Chong Qing , Chen Ru-Mei , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal , Ma Lan , Zhu Tao , Kumar Alan , Pandey Vijay , Basappa  , Lee Soo-Chin , Lobie Peter
Published: October 2019

Dose-dependent toxicity and acquired resistance are two major challenges limiting the efficacious treatment of mammary carcinoma (MC) with doxorubicin. Herein, we investigated the function of Trefoil Factor 3 (TFF3) in the sensitivity and acquired resistance of estrogen receptor positive (ER+) MC cells to doxorubicin. Doxorubicin treatment of ER+MC cells increased TFF3 expression. The depletion of TFF3 by siRNA or inhibition with a small molecule TFF3 inhibitor (AMPC) synergistically enhanced the efficacy of doxorubicin in ER+MC through the suppression of doxorubicin-induced AKT activation and enhancement of doxorubicin-induced apoptosis. Elevated expression of TFF3 and increased activation of AKT were also observed using a model of acquired doxorubicin resistance in ER+MC cells. AMPC partially re-sensitized the doxorubicin resistant cells to doxorubicin-induced apoptosis. Indeed, doxorubicin resistant ER + MC cells exhibited increased sensitivity to AMPC as a single agent compared to doxorubicin sensitive cells. In vivo, AMPC attenuated growth of doxorubicin sensitive ER+MC xenografts whereas it produced regression of xenografts generated by doxorubicin resistant ER+MC cells. Hence, TFF3 inhibition may improve the efficacy and reduce required doses of doxorubicin in ER+MC. Moreover, inhibition of TFF3 may also be an effective therapeutic strategy to eradicate doxorubicin resistant ER+MC.
Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy-Based or Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy-Based Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy in Patients with Thoracic Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lin Wei-Cheng , Chang Chia-Lun , Hsu Han-Lin , Yuan Kevin Sheng-Po , Wu Alexander T. H. , Wu Szu-Yuan
Published: October 2019

Background: To date, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) and CCRT with standard fractionation three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) have not been compared. In this study, the outcomes of IMRT-based concurrent CCRT and those of 3D-CRT-based CCRT were compared in patients with thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (TESCC). Methods: We enrolled 2062 patients with TESCC who had received CCRT and categorized them into two groups on the basis of their treatment modality: Group 1 (3D-CRT-based CCRT) and Group 2 (IMRT-based CCRT). Results: Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that the American Joint Committee on Cancer advanced stages (≥IIIA) and 3D-CRT were significant independent predictors of poor outcomes in patients with TESCC who received definitive CCRT. Moreover, receiving IMRT-based CCRT (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.78–0.98) was a significant independent prognostic factor for overall survival (p = 0.0223). In Group 2, aHRs (95% CIs) for overall mortality at early (IA–IIB) and advanced clinical stages were 0.91 (0.67–1.25, p = 0.5746) and 0.88 (0.77–0.99, p = 0.0368), respectively. Conclusion: IMRT-based CCRT resulted in higher survival rates in patients with advanced clinical stages of TESCC (i.e., IIIA–IIIC), namely, clinical T3, clinical T4, or lymph node involvement.