bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological Characteristics and Drug Resistance Analysis of Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in a China Hospital at a Certain Time
Authors: JIANG MEIJIE , ZHANG ZHIJUN , ZHAO SHUPING
Published: November 2019

Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii is an important bacterium causing nosocomial infections; A. baumannii infections have increased in our hospital since 2009. However, multidrug-resistant A. baumannii, which was mainly isolated from patients in each intensive care unit (ICU), rapidly increased from December 2012 to January 2013. Therefore, we described the molecular characteristics of A. baumannii by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). We also detected resistance genes for β-lactam, aminoglycosides, and plasmid-mediated quinolones. Disinfectant-resistant genes were also detected in the clinical isolates of blaOXA-51-positive multidrug-resistant A. baumannii. The conjugative test was performed to detect whether or not resistance genes can be transferred to different strains. Carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) inhibition test was conducted to analyze the factors influencing the resistance of A. baumannii to imipenem, meropenem, ceftazidime, levofloxacin, and tigecycline. PFGE profiles contained 12 strains, including 20 type C strains (47.6%), 4 type D strains (9.5%), and 1 to 3 strains of other types; 38 strains were distributed in patients in each ICU. In our test samples, the presence of blaOXA-23 was closely related to carbapenem resistance. The 16S rRNA methylase gene armA was associated with resistance to amikacin, gentamicin, and tobramycin. The multidrug-resistant A. baumannii was closely related to various resistance genes. These results indicated that multidrug-resistant A. baumannii with type C strains was predominant in our hospital in this period.
Phenotypical and Molecular Characterization of Microsporum canis Strains in North-Tunisia
Authors: DHIEB CYRINE , ESSGHAIER BADIÂA , EL EUCH DALINDA , SADFI-ZOUAOUI NAJLA
Published: November 2019

In this study, 40 Microsporum canis isolates were obtained from different patients from the Mycology Unit of the Hospital La Rabta (Tunis) during a 3 month period. The phenotypic identification was done by morphological characterization and biochemical tests. Molecular analysis was performed by amplification of the ITS region of rDNA, the amplified region was subjected to enzymatic digestion and sequenced to evaluate phylogenetic relationships. The morphological analysis showed a considerable diversity of colonies as well as different morphologies of conidia and we have noted variability in the assimilation of the nitrogen and carbon sources. The PCR-RFLP results showed only one restriction pattern for each enzyme. The phylogenetic tree proves that all the strains from Tunisian patients are clonal and related with other strains from different origins. The classical methods used in the mycological laboratories are time-consuming, the PCR-RFLP analysis of the ITS is a reliable tool for the identification of M. canis strains. M. canis from infected Tunisian patients are clonal, although the isolates had different phenotypic characteristics.
Measles Outbreak among Roma People in Wrocław, Poland, 2012
Authors: MAKÓWKA AGATA , PARADOWSKA-STANKIEWICZ IWONA , SZENBORN LESZEK , SANTIBANEZ SABINE , MANKERZ ANNETTE , LITWIŃSKA BOGUMIŁA
Published: November 2019

A measles outbreak that affected mainly the Roma ethnic group has been observed in Wrocław, southwest Poland, in spring/summer 2012. There were 15 confirmed measles cases occurring among young Roma people aged from 0 to 16 years including a newborn infant, born by a mother who showed measles symptoms immediately after delivery. Measles virus transmission into the general Polish population was restricted to two contact cases. Initiation of the outbreak by MeV importation from Romania has been confirmed by detection of MeV variant "D4-Maramures" circulating in Romania from 2011 to 2012. The outbreak experience highlights once more the still existing prob- lem of immunity gaps in Roma groups moving throughout Europe with a high susceptibility among children and adolescents including young women of child-bearing age.
梯形水沟一次定型开挖施工技术的研究应用
Authors: 李 卫东 , 黄 珏 , 施 磊 , 赵 志彪 , 杜 可满
Published: November 2019

边沟是公路重要设施，帮助路基路面排水，减轻积水对公路的伤害，延长路基路面寿命，提高路基路面稳定性。基于此，文章以沈康高速连接线4标路基工程为例，通过分析技术原理和优势，研究了技术的具体应用。本工程采取该技术进行施工可有效减少人力和物力的支出，预计可节约资金成本20万元，具有良好的经济效益。
地道风技术对被动式超低能耗建筑空调能耗的影响
Authors: 高 阳
Published: November 2019

笔者以沈阳地区为研究对象，对地道风技术在被动式超低能耗建筑中的应用做模拟计算分析，研究其对被动式超低能耗建筑中空调能耗的影响，分析得出地道风系统利用土壤的蓄热作用，在对新风进行预冷或预热后，再经热回收装置处理，可以减少空调能耗。
带综合管廊双连拱隧道超厚仰拱非对称分幅施工技术探讨
Authors: 曹 海 , 余 东升 , 王 峰 , 李 娟
Published: November 2019

景德镇市凤凰山隧道施工时，综合考虑围岩状况、工期、工艺等因素，采用仰拱及超厚仰拱填充非对称分幅施工，左、右幅交替推进，利用左、右幅中间的幅差作为施工便道，满足仰拱及仰拱填充混凝土养护期间隧道施工的车辆通行要求，在保证质量的前提下，加快隧道施工进度。文章中结合笔者工作经验，对上述施工技术进行探讨。
5G通信技术背景下传输技术发展趋势
Authors: 肖 燕 , 张 岩
Published: November 2019

5G通信技术当前发展迅速，文章中重点分析5G通信技术的特点、技术优势，并探讨了重要传输技术和未来通信技术的发展趋势，从而更好的研究通信技术，提高5G通信服务水平，为经济发展和社会进步提供更好的通信服务。
无信号覆盖区域电能数据采集方法研究与应用
Authors: 奚 永巍
Published: November 2019

在我国现代化进程中，能源占经济发展的重要地位，尤其是电。如今进入社会主义现代化时代，工厂的生产都逐渐变成自动化生产模式，自动化模式渐渐代替工人的手工操作模式。而这自动化生产模式是依靠电来运行的。而且日常生活中人民各种电子产品，日常生活中处处都需要电，现在的人们生活已经不能离开电而生存，那么电能的设备安全就是这其中的重中之重。这就需要有相关的人员定期去对电能数据进行采集。电能的数据采集技术与方法是至关重要的。适当改进电能数据采集技术与方法有利于电的正常安全供应，促进企业的有序健康发展。此文详细分析了电能数据的采集方法，研究了在无信号覆盖的地方的通信问题的解决方法。
PENGEMBANGAN KEAMANAN CYBER PADA CLOUD COMPUTING UNTUK USAHA KECIL DAN MENENGAH
Authors: Rusdan Muchamad
Published: November 2019

Tujuan utama dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menguji strategi keamanan yang efektif untuk UKM pada teknologi cloud computing, dengan memeriksa ancaman keamanan untuk UKM, langkah-langkah mitigasi, dan strategi terbaik untuk keamanan yang efektif di lingkungan cloud computing. Cloud computing adalah paradigma yang relatif baru yang menghadirkan manfaat bisnis yang signifikan dan peluang yang sangat besar untuk usaha kecil dan menengah. Seiring berkembangnya teknologi informasi (TI), UKM perlu menemukan strategi yang efektif untuk memenuhi tuntutan bisnis. Namun, banyak UKM yang enggan mengadopsi teknologi cloud computing karena masalah keamanan, privasi, dan kepercayaan yang melekat, serta risiko regulasi dan implikasi kepatuhan. Penelitian terdahulu menunjukkan peningkatan jumlah serangan keamanan cyber yang menargetkan UKM di lingkungan cloud. Untuk mengatasi ancaman keamanan, ada kebutuhan untuk menetapkan praktik, standar, dan pedoman terbaik yang dapat diikuti oleh UKM. Penelitian ini membahas dua tujuan penelitian: (i) untuk mengidentifikasi ancaman keamanan dan tantangan yang dihadapi UKM di lingkungan cloud dan menentukan strategi mitigasi terbaik dan, (ii) untuk mengembangkan kerangka kerja strategi keamanan untuk UKM dalam konteks cloud computing. Kontribusi keseluruhan dari penelitian ini adalah model yang diusulkan, yang mengintegrasikan empat komponen strategis: Model Cloud, Model Keamanan, Model Kepatuhan, dan Komponen Keamanan Utama.
KAJIAN DATA MINING PROFIL SISWA BARU DALAM PENENTUAN STRATEGI PROMOSI DENGAN METODE TWO STEP CLUSTERING
Authors: Ismawati Iis
Published: November 2019

Data yang disimpan dalam database pada umumnya belum dimanfaatkan secara maksimal. Sekolah setiap tahun melakukan promosi dengan biaya yang besar untuk kegiatan penerimaan siswa baru, tapi belum diketahui tingkat efektifitas dari kegiatan promosi yang dilakukan. Database penerimaan siswa baru dapat dimanfaatkan untuk mengetahui profil siswa baru dengan menerapkan metode two step clustering diakrenakan memiliki tipe data campuran yaitu tipe data numerik dan kategorikal. Klaster yang terbentuk kemudian dianalisis untuk dapat mengidentifikasi strategi promosi yang tepat. Data yang akan diteliti adalah data siswa baru tahun 2015, 2016 dan 2017 yang berjumlah 1399, dengan metodologi Cross-Industry Standart Process for Data Mining (CRISP-DM) yang terdiri dari enam tahapan yaitu Business Understanding, Data Understanding, Data Preparation, Modelling, Evaluation dan Deployment.Melalui tahapan data preparation variabel yang digunakan berjumlah delapan variabel yaitu jenis kelamin, agama, kerja ayah, kerja ibu, penghasilan orang tua, kode jurusan, jarak ke sekolah dan jarak SMP. Pada penelitian ini data dikelompokan menjadi dua sampai empat klaster dengan tiga skema variabel, sehingga total didapatkan sembilan skema, yaitu skema 1.2 sampai skema 1.4 dengan 8 variabel. 2.2 sampai 2.4 dengan 6 variabel, dan 3.2 sampai 3.4 dengan 5 variabel. Pengujian dengan jumlah klaster yang berbeda dan variabel yang berbeda ditujukan untuk mendapatkan klaster yang menggambarkan profil siswa baru dengan tepat untuk strategi promosi yang akan direkomendasikan kepada pihak sekolah.Hasil pengujian menunjukan bahwa siswa baru dengan klaster terbesar didominasi oleh laki-laki, jurusan TKJ, beragama islam dengan jarak rumah rata-rata 6.25-6.29 KM, Jarak SMP antara 12.61-12.69 KM, pekerjaan ayah wiraswasta, ibu tidak bekerja dengan penghasilan orang tua 2.000.000-4.999.999. Sedangkan klaster terkecil didominasi oleh perempuan pada jurusan Akuntansi, laki-laki pada jurusan RPL dan TKR, jarak rumah antara 5.11-736 KM, jarak SMP antara 8.16-20.12 KM, pekerjaan ayah wiraswasta, ibu tidak bekerja dengan penghasilan orang tua 2.000.000-4.999.999 untuk jurusan akuntansi, 500.000-999.999 untuk jurusan TKR, dan 1.000.000-1.999.999 untuk jurusan RPL. Strategi yang dilakukan berdasarkan analisis profil siswa baru yang didapatkan melalui metode two step clustering dan pemetaan menggunakan matriks BCG berdasarkan sembilan skema yaitu dengan membuat acara tahunan turnamen futsal, pelatihan perakitan laptop, entrepreneur day, perlombaan peragaan busana, pelatihan beauty class, dan pelatihan pemrograman dasar dimana pesertanya merupakan siswa SMP, dan pemberian potongan biaya pendidikan bagi siswa yang bertempat tinggal dalam satu kelurahan yang sama dengan sekolah.
Relationship between geochemical environments, nutritional resources, and faunal succession in whale-fall ecosystems
Authors: Onishi Y , Yamanaka T , Ozaki KI , Nakayama R , Shimamura S , Itami R , Fukushima A , Miyamoto M , Fujiwara Y
Published: November 2019

Faunal succession in whale-fall communities is closely associated with the progress of decomposition of the whale carcass. The main nutritional resources supporting a whale-fall community change from whale matter to chemosynthetic products over time. To study the geochemical aspects of this nutritional succession, we sampled animals over time on and in sediments around carcasses of sperm whale Physeter macrocephalus in Sagami Bay (mobile scavenger to early sulfophilic stage) and off Cape Nomamisaki (sulfophilic stage), Japan (500 and 200-300 m water depths, respectively). In these 2 areas, stable carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur isotopes of the animal soft tissues were measured to precisely elucidate the nutritional resources for each animal. In Sagami Bay, mobile scavengers relied only on whale soft tissue. Infaunal animals at 2 wk after the deployment relied only on whale soft tissue, while infauna at 9 mo after the deployment relied on chemosynthetic products. Such changes in nutritional resources were consistent with the transition of the geochemical environment in the sediments. Off Cape Nomamisaki, vigorous microbial sulfate reduction and thioautotrophic primary production nourished the fauna around the carcasses. The fauna in this area consisted of chemosymbiotic bivalves and necrophagous animals with sulfide-tolerant metabolism. We conclude that the changes in microbial processes, biomass, and compositions in sediments influence faunal succession in whale-fall ecosystems via change in the available nutrition for the fauna.
Sexual production of corals for reef restoration in the Anthropocene
Authors: Randall CJ , Negri AP , Quigley KM , Foster T , Ricardo GF , Webster NS , Bay LK , Harrison PL , Babcock RC , Heyward AJ
Published: November 2019

Coral-reef ecosystems are experiencing frequent and severe disturbance events that are reducing global coral abundance and potentially overwhelming the natural capacity for reefs to recover. While mitigation strategies for climate warming and other anthropogenic disturbances are implemented, coral restoration programmes are being established worldwide as an additional conservation measure to minimise coral loss and enhance coral recovery. Current restoration efforts predominantly rely on asexually produced coral fragments—a process with inherent practical constraints on the genetic diversity conserved and the spatial scale achieved. Because the resilience of coral communities has hitherto relied on regular renewal with natural recruits, the scaling-up of restoration programmes would benefit from greater use of sexually produced corals, which is an approach that is gaining momentum. Here we review the present state of knowledge of scleractinian coral sexual reproduction in the context of reef restoration, with a focus on broadcast-spawning corals. We identify key knowledge gaps and bottlenecks that currently constrain the sexual production of corals and consider the feasibility of using sexually produced corals for scaling-up restoration to the reef- and reef-system scales.
A Polymorphism in the Cyclooxygenase 2 Gene in Type 1 Diabetic Patients With Nephropathy
Authors: HUBÁČEK J. A. , PELIKÁNOVÁ T. , LÁNSKÁ V. , KOMERS R.
Published: November 2019

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), the most serious complication of Type 1 diabetes (DM1), has a strong genetic component. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an inducible enzyme by a number of stimuli, has been implicated in pathophysiology of cardiovascular and renal disease, including DN. The allele -765C, of the -765G>C polymorphism (rs20417) in the COX-2 promoter has lower promoter activity compared with the -765G allele and protective effects in cardiovascular disease. This polymorphism was not investigated in patients with DM1 and nephropathy. The study was conducted in 779 Caucasian patients with DM1 and compared to a representative sample of healthy Czech population. The patients demonstrated lower frequencies of the CC genotype (P=0.005). From the DM1 cohort, 153 patients met the criteria for low risk of the development of DN (LRDN, duration of DM1>10 years, normoalbuminuria, normotension) and 139 patients had manifest DN. There were no differences in -765G>C polymorphisms between LRDN and DN patients. Moreover, the C/G allele frequencies did not also differ between the groups. In conclusion, patients with DM1 display lower freqencies of the protective CC genotype as compared to healthy subjects. However, the study did not reveal associations of -765G>C polymorphism with the risk of DN.
Reduced Progesterone Metabolites in Human Late Pregnancy
Authors: HILL M. , PAŘÍZEK A. , KANCHEVA R. , JIRÁSEK J. E.
Published: November 2019

In this review, we focused on the intersection between steroid metabolomics, obstetrics and steroid neurophysiology to give a comprehensive insight into the role of sex hormones and neuroactive steroids (NAS) in the mechanism controlling pregnancy sustaining. The data in the literature including our studies show that there is a complex mechanism providing synthesis of either pregnancy sustaining or parturition provoking steroids. This mechanism includes the boosting placental synthesis of CRH with approaching parturition inducing the excessive synthesis of 3β-hydroxy-5-ene steroid sulfates serving primarily as precursors for placental synthesis of progestogens, estrogens and NAS. The distribution and changing activities of placental oxidoreductases are responsible for the activation or inactivation of the aforementioned steroids, which is compartment-specific (maternal and fetal compartments) and dependent on gestational age, with a tendency to shift the production from the pregnancy-sustaining steroids to the parturition provoking ones with an increasing gestational age. The fetal and maternal livers catabolize part of the bioactive steroids and also convert some precursors to bioactive steroids. Besides the progesterone, a variety of its 5α/β-reduced metabolites may significantly influence the maintenance of human pregnancy, provide protection against excitotoxicity following acute hypoxic stress, and might also affect the pain perception in mother and fetus.
Singularités sérielles: l'image des auteurs dans les collections de monographies illustrées de poche
Authors: Martens David , Yanoshevsky Galia
Published: November 2019

Dans l'histoire littéraire des pays francophones, et de la France en particulier, un phénomène éditorial constitue une des tendances de fonds des Trente Glorieuses: l'apparition et le développement de collections monographiques de poche illustrées. Consacrées tout d'abord aux écrivains, les séries de ce type s'ouvrent dans un second temps aux penseurs et aux artistes. Ces entreprises de médiation peuvent paraître relativement simples, aussi bien dans leur forme que dans les enjeux qu'elles soulèvent. Toutefois, elles présentent une pluralité d'orientations et ont cependant ceci de commun que les ouvrages qu'elles publient participent d'une entreprise de fabrique du patrimoine littéraire, et plus largement culturel. Ces livres ont en effet activement contribué à l’élaboration et à la diffusion de l'image d'auteurs, dans une perspective de façonnement du canon, favorisé par le principe même de la collection, qui revêt un effet de canonisation.
POULTRY FARMS AS A SOURCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
Authors: Bochkareva Irina , Maymanova Elena
Published: November 2019

The article describes the main problems of the poultry industry that affects environmental pollution. Recommendations to minimize waste generation and protect the environment are made.
IFORMATION MODELING RECREATIONAL LAND USE ON THE TERRITORY OF THE SETTLEMENT
Authors: Dubrovsky Alexey , Varkentin Maria
Published: November 2019

Methods of geoinformation analysis and geomodelling are used for the implementation of urban zoning. Recreational land use is a complex spatial system. The main task of recreational areas is to restore the strength and health of the population. Recreational areas consist of climatic, engineering and technical elements. Currently, creative and adaptive recreation is developing. These types of recreation fill the deficit of traditional recreational areas. The decrease in recreational areas is due to the construction of buildings. Recreational areas lose their natural properties. The financing of recreational infrastructure is reduced. In the article the geoinformation analysis of recreational provision of the city of Novosibirsk is executed. An original method of constructing a network of evaluation blocks is proposed. The analysis of the spatial location of residential and transport infrastructure. Information on the population and area of recreational facilities was used to calculate the recreational provision. As a result of geoinformation analysis it was found that 26% of the city residents are provided with recreational areas. 73% of residents do not have recreational facilities near the house.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES OF DENSE DIGITAL MODEL GENERATION BY UAS DATA AND ITS APPLICATION
Authors: Khlebnikova Tatyana , Opritova Olga
Published: November 2019

The paper presents results of researches of joint photogrammetric processing of both planned and perspective images, obtained with the use of UAS, photogrammetric model accuracy, export in GIS. It is shown that to increase the reliability of photogrammetric models of objects it is necessary to perform perspective images in addition to planned one the reliability of the photogrammetric model.
SYSTEM FOR DIFFERENTIAL CORRECTION AND MONITORING AS THE BASE OF THE NEXT GENERATION NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE FOR NAVIGATION AND HIGH-PRECISION POSITIONING
Authors: Karpik Pavel , Sernov Vitaliy , Vdovin Vladimir
Published: November 2019

The Russian System for Differential Correction and Monitoring (SDCM) is introduced. The current role of SDCM as a provider of positioning navigation and timing services is described. It is shown that the next generation infrastructure for high-precision positioning can be based on SDCM.
BONITIATION OF SOILS IN ISKITIM DISTRICT OF THE NOVOSIBIRSK REGION
Authors: Perevozchikova Lyubov , Anopchenko Lyudmila
Published: November 2019

A description of the soil assessment of the Iskitimsky district of the Novosibirsk Region is given, as well as calculations of soil scores, integral indicator of the technological properties of the soil, soil productivity, and soil-ecological indices, which are compared taking into account climatic factors and excluding climatic factors.
Infrared Thermography to Estimate Vine Water Status: Optimizing Canopy Measurements and Thermal Indices for the Varieties Merlot and Moscato in Northern Italy
Authors: Belfiore Nicola , Vinti Rosanna , Lovat Lorenzo , Chitarra Walter , Tomasi Diego , de Bei Roberta , Meggio Franco , Gaiotti Federica
Published: November 2019

This study investigated the effectiveness of infrared thermography to estimate water status in Merlot and Moscato grown in northeast Italy by comparing the crop water stress index (CWSI) and the stomatal conductance index (IG). The influence of the portion of the canopy in which the thermal images were captured (sunlit or shaded) was also investigated. During the 2018 growing season, potted vines were subjected to three irrigation treatments: T0 = 100% of daily water usage restored; T1 = 50% of daily water usage restored; and T2 = 30% of daily water usage restored. Measurements included stomatal conductance (gs), stem water potential (SWP), and thermal imagery. Results showed that both the CWSI and IG indices were effective in discriminating the irrigation treatments in Moscato and Merlot. CWSI showed higher correlations with gs and SWP compared to IG, especially in Moscato. CWSI was less influenced by the portion of the canopy the image was taken on. In general, Moscato showed greater differences in gs, SWP, and the thermal indices between the three irrigation treatments. This study suggests that the efficacy of thermography in estimating vine water status depends on the variety and its stomatal control physiology.
The Disulfide Stress Response and Protein S-thioallylation Caused by Allicin and Diallyl Polysulfanes in Bacillus subtilis as Revealed by Transcriptomics and Proteomics
Authors: Chi Bui Khanh , Huyen Nguyen Thi Thu , Loi Vu Van , Gruhlke Martin Clemens Horst , Schaffer Marc , Mäder Ulrike , Maaß Sandra , Becher Dörte , Bernhardt Jörg , Arbach Miriam , Hamilton Chris J. , Slusarenko Alan J. , Antelmann Haike
Published: November 2019

Garlic plants (Allium sativum L.) produce antimicrobial compounds, such as diallyl thiosulfinate (allicin) and diallyl polysulfanes. Here, we investigated the transcriptome and protein S-thioallylomes under allicin and diallyl tetrasulfane (DAS4) exposure in the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis. Allicin and DAS4 caused a similar thiol-specific oxidative stress response, protein and DNA damage as revealed by the induction of the OhrR, PerR, Spx, YodB, CatR, HypR, AdhR, HxlR, LexA, CymR, CtsR, and HrcA regulons in the transcriptome. At the proteome level, we identified, in total, 108 S-thioallylated proteins under allicin and/or DAS4 stress. The S-thioallylome includes enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of surfactin (SrfAA, SrfAB), amino acids (SerA, MetE, YxjG, YitJ, CysJ, GlnA, YwaA), nucleotides (PurB, PurC, PyrAB, GuaB), translation factors (EF-Tu, EF-Ts, EF-G), antioxidant enzymes (AhpC, MsrB), as well as redox-sensitive MarR/OhrR and DUF24-family regulators (OhrR, HypR, YodB, CatR). Growth phenotype analysis revealed that the low molecular weight thiol bacillithiol, as well as the OhrR, Spx, and HypR regulons, confer protection against allicin and DAS4 stress. Altogether, we show here that allicin and DAS4 cause a strong oxidative, disulfide and sulfur stress response in the transcriptome and widespread S-thioallylation of redox-sensitive proteins in B. subtilis. The results further reveal that allicin and polysulfanes have similar modes of actions and thiol-reactivities and modify a similar set of redox-sensitive proteins by S-thioallylation.
Effects of Whole-Body Vibration Exercises on Parameters Related to the Sleep Quality in Metabolic Syndrome Individuals: A Clinical Trial Study
Authors: Figueiredo Azeredo Claudia , de Castro de Paiva Patrícia , Azeredo Leandro , Reis da Silva Aline , Francisca-Santos Arlete , Liane Paineiras-Domingos Laisa , Lírio Pereira da Silva Adriana , Leite Bernardes-Oliveira Camila , Pessanha-Freitas Juliana , Moura-Fernandes Márcia , Guimarães Mendonça Rubens , Alexandre Bachur José , Teixeira-Silva Ygor , Moreira-Marconi Eloá , de Oliveira Guedes-Aguiar Eliane , Bessa Monteiro de Oliveira Bruno , Fritsch Neves Mário , Felipe Ferreira-Souza Luiz , Layter Xavier Vinicius , Lago Borges Daniel , Lacerda Ana , Amaral Mendonça Vanessa , Sonza Anelise , Taiar Redha , Sartorio Alessandro , Bernardo-Filho Mario , da Cunha de Sá-Caputo Danúbia
Published: November 2019

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an undesirable clinical condition with physiological, biochemical, clinical, and metabolic factors that contribute to increased cardiovascular risks (CR). A poor sleep quality might be found in obese and MetS individuals. Whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise has been used on the management of MetS individuals. This clinical trial investigated the effect of WBV exercise on parameters related to the sleep quality in MetS individuals. After randomization, nine individuals (seven women and two men) were exposed to a fixed frequency (FF) and ten individuals (eight women and two men) were exposed to a variable frequency (VF). Both groups performed the protocol twice a week, for 6 weeks. All of the evaluations were performed before the first and after the last sessions. Anthropometric and cardiovascular parameters were measured before and after the 6-week intervention. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and Berlin Questionnaire were also used to evaluate the quality of the sleep. A significant (p ≤ 0.05) reduction of the waist circumference in the VFG and an increase of the heart rate were found in the FFG and VFG group. The score of the PSQI of the both groups decreased significantly (p = 0.01). The score of the ESS decreased (p = 0.04) only in the VF group. The scores of the Berlin Questionnaire were not altered in both groups. In conclusion, WBV intervention was capable in interfering with physiological mechanisms with effects on the WC and HR, leading to the improvement of the quality of sleep in MetS individuals. WBV exercise might be an important clinical intervention to the management of some factors associated with poor quality of sleep (FFG and VFG) and in the daytime sleepiness in MetS individuals with variable frequencies (5–16 Hz) (VFG).
Bionic Stiffener Layout Optimization with a Flexible Plate in Solar-Powered UAV Surface Structure Design
Authors: Ding You , Zhou Zhou , Wang ZhengPing , Liu HongJun , Wang KeLei
Published: November 2019

A cellular-based evolutionary topology optimization scheme over a small curvature big contour wing surface is proposed for the design of an ultralight surface structure. Using this method, a ground-structure technique is first applied to obtain homogeneous mesh generation with a predefined weight value over the design domain. Secondly, the stiffener path’s description is guided by a modified map L system topology method that simulates the growth of the bionic branch, and the structural components are obtained by the specified searching method according to weights of the previous mesh vertexes. Thirdly, an optimal curved stiffener layout is achieved using an agent-based algorithm to create individual instances of designs based on a small number of input parameters. These parameters can then be controlled by a genetic algorithm to optimize the final design according to goals like minimizing weight and structural weakness. A comparison is implemented for long-span panel stiffener layout generation between an initial straight case and a bionic optimal case via our method, thereby indicating the significant improvement of the buckling loads by steering the stiffener’s path. Finally, this bionic method is applied to the wing box structure design and achieves remarkable weight loss at last.
Simulation Model to Estimate Emotions in Collaborative Networks
Authors: Ferrada Filipa , Camarinha-Matos Luis M.
Published: November 2019

In recent years, the research on collaborative networks has been pointing to the need to put more emphasis on the social interactions of its participants, along with technical features, as a potential direction to finding solutions to prevent failures and potential conflicts. In this context, a modelling framework called Collaborative EMOtion modelling framework (C-EMO), conceived for appraising the collaborative network emotions that might be present in a collaborative networked environment, is presented, and an implementation approach, based on system dynamics and agent-based simulation modelling techniques, for estimating both the collaborative network emotional state and each member’s emotions, is described. The work is divided in two parts: the first considers the design of the models and the second comprises the transformation of these conceptual models into a computer model, providing the proposed simulation model. In order to validate the simulation model, and taking into consideration the novelty of the research area, experiments are undertaken in different scenarios representing several aspects of a collaborative environment and a sensitivity analysis and discussion of the results is performed.
An Underwater Vector Propulsion Device Based on the RS+2PRS Parallel Mechanism and Its Attitude Control Algorithm
Authors: Wang Rui , Guo Xiangyu , Zhong Shisheng
Published: November 2019

In order to overcome the disadvantages of some existing autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), such as actuator extraposition and degree-of-freedom (DOF) redundancy, a 2-DOF vector propeller propulsion system with built-in actuator based on the deficient DOF parallel mechanism is proposed. The RS+2PRS (Revolute-Spherical+ Prismatic-Revolute-Spherical) parallel mechanism is used as the main structure, and the driving parts are placed in the interior of the AUV cabin, which is beneficial to the sealing and protection of the propulsion system. In addition, the motion parameters decoupling shows that the two independent parameters are the precession angle and the nutation angle of the propeller installation platform. Therefore, the attitude control algorithm uses two prismatic joints as driving units to establish the nonlinear mapping model with the two Euler attitude angles. In the end, the simulation analysis and the real device are used to verify the feasibility of the attitude control algorithm and the in situ adjustment function of the propeller, which lays the theoretical foundation for engineering applications in the future.
Chemical Constituents of the Leaves of Butterbur (Petasites japonicus) and Their Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Authors: Lee Jin Su , Jeong Miran , Park Sangsu , Ryu Seung Mok , Lee Jun , Song Ziteng , Guo Yuanqiang , Choi Jung-Hye , Lee Dongho , Jang Dae Sik
Published: November 2019

Two new aryltetralin lactone lignans, petasitesins A and B were isolated from the hot water extract of the leaves of butterbur (Petasites japonicus) along with six known compounds. The chemical structures of lignans 1 and 2 were elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic data, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) and vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectra. Petasitesin A and cimicifugic acid D showed significant inhibitory effects on the production of both prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and NO in RAW264.7 macrophages. The expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were inhibited by compound 1 in RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, compounds 1 and 3 exhibited strong affinities with both iNOS and COX-2 enzymes in molecular docking studies.
Peak Detection with Online Electroencephalography (EEG) Artifact Removal for Brain–Computer Interface (BCI) Purposes
Authors: Benda Mihaly , Volosyak Ivan
Published: November 2019

Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) measure brain activity and translate it to control computer programs or external devices. However, the activity generated by the BCI makes measurements for objective fatigue evaluation very difficult, and the situation is further complicated due to different movement artefacts. The BCI performance could be increased if an online method existed to measure the fatigue objectively and accurately. While BCI-users are moving, a novel automatic online artefact removal technique is used to filter out these movement artefacts. The effects of this filter on BCI performance and mainly on peak frequency detection during BCI use were investigated in this paper. A successful peak alpha frequency measurement can lead to more accurately determining objective user fatigue. Fifteen subjects performed various imaginary and actual movements in separate tasks, while fourteen electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes were used. Afterwards, a steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP)-based BCI speller was used, and the users were instructed to perform various movements. An offline curve fitting method was used for alpha peak detection to assess the effect of the artefact filtering. Peak detection was improved by the filter, by finding 10.91% and 9.68% more alpha peaks during simple EEG recordings and BCI use, respectively. As expected, BCI performance deteriorated from movements, and also from artefact removal. Average information transfer rates (ITRs) were 20.27 bit/min, 16.96 bit/min, and 14.14 bit/min for the (1) movement-free, (2) the moving and unfiltered, and (3) the moving and filtered scenarios, respectively.
Classification of Drowsiness Levels Based on a Deep Spatio-Temporal Convolutional Bidirectional LSTM Network Using Electroencephalography Signals
Authors: Jeong Ji-Hoon , Yu Baek-Woon , Lee Dae-Hyeok , Lee Seong-Whan
Published: November 2019

Non-invasive brain-computer interfaces (BCI) have been developed for recognizing human mental states with high accuracy and for decoding various types of mental conditions. In particular, accurately decoding a pilot’s mental state is a critical issue as more than 70% of aviation accidents are caused by human factors, such as fatigue or drowsiness. In this study, we report the classification of not only two mental states (i.e., alert and drowsy states) but also five drowsiness levels from electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. To the best of our knowledge, this approach is the first to classify drowsiness levels in detail using only EEG signals. We acquired EEG data from ten pilots in a simulated night flight environment. For accurate detection, we proposed a deep spatio-temporal convolutional bidirectional long short-term memory network (DSTCLN) model. We evaluated the classification performance using Karolinska sleepiness scale (KSS) values for two mental states and five drowsiness levels. The grand-averaged classification accuracies were 0.87 (±0.01) and 0.69 (±0.02), respectively. Hence, we demonstrated the feasibility of classifying five drowsiness levels with high accuracy using deep learning.
A Meta-Analysis of Relationships between Measures of Wisconsin Card Sorting and Intelligence
Authors: Kopp Bruno , Maldonado Natasha , Scheffels Jannik F. , Hendel Merle , Lange Florian
Published: November 2019

The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) represents a widely utilized neuropsychological assessment technique for executive function. This meta-analysis examined the discriminant validity of the WCST for the assessment of mental shifting, considered as an essential subcomponent of executive functioning, against traditional psychometric intelligence tests. A systematic search was conducted, resulting in 72 neuropsychological samples for the meta-analysis of relationships between WCST scores and a variety of intelligence quotient (IQ) domains. The study revealed low to medium-sized correlations with IQ domains across all WCST scores that could be investigated. Verbal/crystallized IQ and performance/fluid IQ were indistinguishably associated with WCST scores. To conclude, the WCST assesses cognitive functions that might be partially separable from common conceptualizations of intelligence. More vigorous initiatives to validate putative indicators of executive function against intelligence are required.
A Strong Converse Theorem for Hypothesis Testing Against Independence over a Two-Hop Network
Authors: Cao Daming , Zhou Lin , Tan Vincent Y. F.
Published: November 2019

By proving a strong converse theorem, we strengthen the weak converse result by Salehkalaibar, Wigger and Wang (2017) concerning hypothesis testing against independence over a two-hop network with communication constraints. Our proof follows by combining two recently-proposed techniques for proving strong converse theorems, namely the strong converse technique via reverse hypercontractivity by Liu, van Handel, and Verdú (2017) and the strong converse technique by Tyagi and Watanabe (2018), in which the authors used a change-of-measure technique and replaced hard Markov constraints with soft information costs. The techniques used in our paper can also be applied to prove strong converse theorems for other multiterminal hypothesis testing against independence problems.
An Intrinsic Entropy Model for Exchange-Traded Securities
Authors: Vințe Claudiu , Smeureanu Ion , Furtună Titus-Felix , Ausloos Marcel
Published: November 2019

This paper introduces an intrinsic entropy model which can be employed as an indicator for gauging investors’ interest in a given exchange-traded security, along with the state of the overall market corroborated by individual security trading data. Although the syntagma of intrinsic entropy might sound somehow pleonastic, since entropy itself characterizes the fundamentals of a system, we would like to make a clear distinction between entropy models based on the values that a random variable may take, and the model that we propose, which employs actual stock exchange trading data. The model that we propose for the intrinsic entropy does not include any exogenous factor that could influence the level of entropy. The intrinsic entropy signals if the market is either inclined to buy the security or rather to sell it. We further explore the usage of the intrinsic entropy model for algorithmic trading, in order to demonstrate the value of our model in assisting investors’ intraday stock portfolio selection, along with timely generated signals for supporting the buy/sell decision-making process. The test results provide empirical evidence that the proposed intrinsic entropy model can be used as an indicator for evaluating the direction and the intensity of intraday trading activity of an exchange-traded security. The data employed for testing consisted of historical intraday transactions executed on The Bucharest Stock Exchange (BVB).
Bayesian Determination of Parameters for Plasma-Wall Interactions
Authors: Preuss Roland , Arredondo Rodrigo , von Toussaint Udo
Published: November 2019

Within the Bayesian framework a non-intrusive uncertainty quantification is performed to assess the uncertainty of ion–solid interaction simulations. For this we employ a reduced-order spectral expansion approach which is capable of confining the number of model runs to a feasible size. Moreover, the method facilitates sensitivity examinations regarding to input parameters of the model. It is applied to the ion–solid simulation program SDTrimSP with several uncertain but normally distributed input parameters, i.e., impact angle α , projectile energy E 0 , and surface binding energy E s b . Consequently, the otherwise hardly accessible model parameter E s b can be estimated in combination with recently acquired experimental data.
Direct Power-Based Three-Phase Matrix Rectifier Control with Input Power Factor Adjustment
Authors: Kim Jae-Chang , Kim Dongyeon , Kwak Sang-Shin
Published: November 2019

In a current source rectifier such as a matrix rectifier, input voltage and current cannot be in phase unless an additional input power factor control technique is implemented. This paper proposes such a technique for a matrix rectifier using power-based space vector modulation (SVM). In the proposed method, the modulation index and phase required in order to apply the SVM are calculated based on the active and reactive power of the rectifier for intuitive power factor control. The active power that the rectifier should generate for the regulation of the output inductor current is obtained by the PI (proportional-integral) controller. The reactive power, which is supplied by the rectifier for adjustment of the power factor, is assigned differently depending on the output condition: for the output condition capable of unity power factor, it is set to a negative value of reactive power of the input capacitor, and when the unity power factor is not achievable, it is set with the maximum reactive power the rectifier can generate under the given condition to attain the maximum possible input power factor. It is determined whether the given condition is the light load condition by comparing the absolute value of the reactive power supplied by the input capacitor with the maximum rectifier reactive power that can be produced under the given condition. The SVM based on the active and reactive power of the rectifier in this technique allows the input power factor control to be intuitive and simple. The performance and feasibility of the technique were proved by simulation and experimentation.
Improvement of the Thermal and Mechanical Strength of the Starting Cage of Double-Cage Induction Motors
Authors: Mróz Jan , Poprawski Wojciech
Published: November 2019

This article discusses the thermal and mechanical exposure of the starting cage of a double-cage induction motor rotor during start-up. Damage to the starting cage is the most common cause of failure of a double-cage winding during long start-ups. It has been indicated that the end region of the double-cage winding is a key area in the search for a more damage-resistant solution. Among the available studies on improving the mechanical strength of double-cage windings, which typically focuses on improving the cooling system, modifying the shape of the slots, or altering the bar material, a new concept of improving the mechanical strength through the modification of the structure of the end region has appeared. This is achieved by applying sleeves onto the ends of the starting cage bars, which helps to reduce the temperature of the connection between the starting bars and the end rings. A simulation of the temperature field of a double-cage induction motor with this new design is performed and discussed in this paper. It has been confirmed that the new design solution effectively improves the mechanical strength of the starting cage, making it less prone to damage caused by thermal stresses.
Ignition of Slurry Fuel Droplets with Different Heating Conditions
Authors: Valiullin Timur , Vershinina Ksenia , Strizhak Pavel
Published: November 2019

This paper describes modern research methods of the ignition and combustion processes of slurry fuel droplets. The experiments were carried out using a muffle furnace to ensure the conditions of radiation heating, the hot surface to reproduce the conditions of conductive heating, the high-temperature channel with convective heating, the chamber with the processes of soaring, i.e., a significant increase in the time of fuel residence in the combustion chamber. We identified the differences in combustion modes, threshold ignition temperatures, delay times and durations of combustion processes. We obtained the quantitative differences in the characteristics of the ignition and combustion processes for typical registration methods. It was found that for all heating schemes, the minimum ignition temperatures have comparable values. Minimum ignition delay times were recorded during convective heating. The maximum combustion temperatures were achieved with radiation heating. We determined the values of limiting heat fluxes, sufficient to initiate the combustion of slurries fuels during conductive, convective and radiative heating.
Evaluating the Environmental Impact of Bus Signal Priority at Intersections under Hybrid Energy Consumption Conditions
Authors: Huan Ning , Yao Enjian , Fan Yulin , Wang Zhaohui
Published: November 2019

The acceleration of the motorization process creates severe environmental problems by affecting the energy consumption of urban traffic. As a major source of traffic pollution, vehicle exhaust deserves more attention when making traffic policy. Actually, the acceleration, deceleration, and idling conditions of vehicles cause more pollution than usual, which mainly happens at intersections of the road network. Besides, in the context of giving priority on public transport development, bus signal priority (BSP) at intersections becomes a quite prevalent measure to reduce average capita delay for travelers, while long-term practice also indicates that the unreasonable setting of bus lane further worsens the running conditions for other vehicles by occupying excessive traffic capacity, which highlights the indirect environmental effects of BSP. This paper provides a simulation-based method for evaluating the adaptability of BSP to find an optimum balance between efficient and environmental care. Specifically, the traffic volume, bus mixed rate of the intersection and energy types of vehicles consist of hybrid energy consumption conditions collectively. A VSP (vehicle specific power)-based exhaust emission models for both buses and other vehicles are employed to estimate the environmental cost of the entire intersection. Moreover, the overall efficiency of gasoline and electric vehicles is further evaluated to offer more implications for traffic control practice.
A Review on the Selected Applications of Battery-Supercapacitor Hybrid Energy Storage Systems for Microgrids
Authors: Khalid Muhammad
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a comprehensive categorical review of the recent advances and past research development of the hybrid storage paradigm over the last two decades. The main intent of the study is to provide an application-focused survey where every category and sub-category herein is thoroughly and independently investigated. Implementation of energy storage systems is one of the most interestingly effective options for further progression in the field of alternative energy technology. Apart from a meticulous garnering of the energy resources regulated by the energy storage, the main concern is to optimize the characteristic integrity of the storage devices to achieve a practically techno-economic size and operation. In this paper, hybrid energy storage consisting of batteries and supercapacitors is studied. The fact that the characteristic of batteries is mostly complementary to that of supercapacitors, hybridizing these storage systems enhances their scope of application in various fields. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to present an inclusive review of these applications. Specifically, the application domain includes: (1) regulation of renewable energy sources, (2) contributions to grid regulation (voltage and frequency compensation, contribution to power system inertia), (3) energy storage enhancements (life cycle improvement, and size reduction), (4) regenerative braking in electric vehicles, (5) improvement in wireless power transfer technology. Further, this review also descriptively highlights the control strategies implemented in these domains of applications. The application-oriented review explicates the principle advantages with the hybridization of battery and supercapacitor energy storage systems that can be used as an insight for further development in the field of energy storage technology and its applications.