bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vasopressin in the Amelioration of Social Functioning in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Hendaus Mohamed A. , Jomha Fatima A. , Alhammadi Ahmed H.
Published: July 2019

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability described by diagnostic criteria that comprise deficits in social communication and the existence of repetitive, restricted patterns of behavior, interests, or activities that can last throughout life. Many preclinical studies show the importance of arginine vasopressin (AVP) physiology in social functioning in several mammalian species. Currently, there is a trend to investigate more specific pharmacological agents to improve social functioning in patients with ASD. Neurobiological systems that are crucial for social functioning are the most encouraging conceivable signaling pathways for ASD therapeutic discovery. The AVP signaling pathway is one of the most promising. The purpose of this commentary is to detail the evidence on the use of AVP as an agent that can improve social functioning. The pharmacologic aspects of the drug as well as its potential to ameliorate social functioning characteristics in human and animal studies are described in this manuscript. AVP, especially in its inhaled form, seems to be safe and beneficial in improving social functioning including in children with autism. Larger randomized studies are required to implement a long awaited safe and feasible treatment in people with a deficiency in social functioning.
Best Evidence Rehabilitation for Chronic Pain Part 3: Low Back Pain
Authors: Malfliet Anneleen , Ickmans Kelly , Huysmans Eva , Coppieters Iris , Willaert Ward , Van Bogaert Wouter , Rheel Emma , Bilterys Thomas , Van Wilgen Paul , Nijs Jo
Published: July 2019

Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) is a major and highly prevalent health problem. Given the high number of papers available, clinicians might be overwhelmed by the evidence on CLBP management. Taking into account the scale and costs of CLBP, it is imperative that healthcare professionals have access to up-to-date, evidence-based information to assist them in treatment decision-making. Therefore, this paper provides a state-of-the-art overview of the best evidence non-invasive rehabilitation for CLBP. Taking together up-to-date evidence from systematic reviews, meta-analysis and available treatment guidelines, most physically inactive therapies should not be considered for CLBP management, except for pain neuroscience education and spinal manipulative therapy if combined with exercise therapy, with or without psychological therapy. Regarding active therapy, back schools, sensory discrimination training, proprioceptive exercises, and sling exercises should not be considered due to low-quality and/or conflicting evidence. Exercise interventions on the other hand are recommended, but while all exercise modalities appear effective compared to minimal/passive/conservative/no intervention, there is no evidence that some specific types of exercises are superior to others. Therefore, we recommend choosing exercises in line with the patient’s preferences and abilities. When exercise interventions are combined with a psychological component, effects are better and maintain longer over time.
Dry Eye Symptoms and Ocular Pain in Veterans with Glaucoma
Authors: Tirpack Aubrey R , Vanner Elizabeth , Parrish James M , Galor Anat , Hua Hong-Uyen , Wellik Sarah R
Published: July 2019

Dry eye and glaucoma are two frequently encountered ocular conditions, which can lead to substantial morbidity and decreased quality of life. Patients on topical glaucoma medications are known to be at greater risk for ocular surface symptoms. Veterans seen in the eye clinics at the Miami Veterans Affairs Hospital from January to July 2016 completed surveys assessing dry eye and ocular pain symptoms, including the five item Dry Eye Questionnaire (DEQ5). A total of 62 patients with glaucoma completed the survey. Of those, 52 were on glaucoma medications at the time of the survey, with the majority requiring more than one medication to control intraocular pressure. The frequency of mild or greater dry eye symptoms (defined as DEQ5 >6) tended to increase with increasing medication burden, and patients on brimonidine were more likely to report a DEQ5 >6. Patients on three or more glaucoma medications were more likely to report symptoms of shooting pain, dryness, and itchiness. Patients using timolol were more likely to report throbbing and pain by light, while those on latanoprost reported stinging. Our data support an association between increasing number of glaucoma medications and worsening of dry eye symptoms. Patient and medication-associated symptoms can be used to tailor individual medication regimens.
A C-Doped TiO2/Fe3O4 Nanocomposite for Photocatalytic Dye Degradation under Natural Sunlight Irradiation
Authors: Gebrezgiabher Mamo , Gebreslassie Gebrehiwot , Gebretsadik Tesfay , Yeabyo Gebretinsae , Elemo Fikre , Bayeh Yosef , Thomas Madhu , Linert Wolfgang
Published: July 2019

Magnetically recyclable C-doped TiO2/Fe3O4 (C-TiO2/Fe3O4) nanocomposite was successfully synthesized via a sol–gel method. The synthesized samples were characterized using SEM, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), FTIR, and UV-VIS diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) techniques. The results clearly showed that a C-TiO2/Fe3O4 nanocomposite was produced. The photocatalytic activities of the prepared pristine (TiO2), C-doped TiO2 (C-TiO2) and C-TiO2/Fe3O4 were evaluated by the photodegradation of methyl orange (MO) under natural sunlight. The effect of catalyst loading and MO concentration were studied and optimized. The C-TiO2/Fe3O4 nanocomposite exhibited an excellent photocatalytic activity (99.68%) that was higher than the TiO2 (55.41%) and C-TiO2 (70%) photocatalysts within 150 min. The magnetic nanocomposite could be easily recovered from the treated solution by applying external magnetic field. The C-TiO2/Fe3O4 composite showed excellent photocatalytic performance for four consecutive photocatalytic reactions. Thus, this work could provide a simple method for the mass production of highly photoactive and stable C-TiO2/Fe3O4 photocatalyst for environmental remediation.
Conservative Treatment of Chronic Achilles Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pavone Vito , Vescio Andrea , Mobilia Giuseppe , Dimartino Sara , Di Stefano Giovanni , Culmone Annalisa , Testa Gianluca
Published: July 2019

Achilles tendinopathy is a common musculoskeletal disorder. Athletes, runners and jumpers, and the sedentary are frequently affected. Numerous are the therapeutic choices to manage these kinds of disorders. The aim of this review is to analyze the available literature to document the up-to-date evidence on conservative management of Achilles tendinopathy. A systematic review of two medical electronic databases was performed by three independent authors, using the following inclusion criteria: conservative treatment consisted of pharmacologic, physical therapy without operative treatment, with more of 6 months symptoms and a minimum average of 6-months follow-up. Studies of any level of evidence, reporting clinical results, and dealing with Achilles tendinopathy and conservative treatment were searched for. A total of n = 1228 articles were found. At the end of the first screening, following the previously described selection criteria, we selected n = 94 articles eligible for full-text reading. Ultimately, after full-text reading and a reference list check, we selected n = 29 articles. Achilles tendinopathy is a frequent musculoskeletal disorder and several conservative treatments have been proposed, but no therapy is universally accepted, except for eccentric exercise training, which is the gold standard and a commonly used protocol.
Evaluation of the Occurrence of Tetrodotoxin in Bivalve Mollusks from the Portuguese Coast
Authors: Rodrigues Susana Margarida , Pinto Estefanía Pereira , Oliveira Patrícia , Pedro Sónia , Costa Pedro Reis
Published: July 2019

Occurrence of tetrodotoxin (TTX), a potent natural neurotoxin, in marine organisms and seafood from the European Union has been of increasing concern due to its relatively recent detection in bivalve mollusks and gastropods. Following a request of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to EU Member States to obtain more data on TTX occurrence, this study collected 117 samples of bivalve mollusks, including mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis), oysters (Crassostrea gigas) and clams (Ruditapes philippinarum and Donax spp.), from the South and Southwest Portuguese coast between May and October 2018, for TTX determination and microbiological analysis. The analyses carried out by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HILIC-MS/MS) did not detect TTX in any sample, and microbiological analysis did not reveal high concentrations of Vibrio spp., which has been linked to the presence of TTX. Although preliminary, results from this study, the first investigating the presence of TTX in bivalve mollusks from the Portuguese coast, suggest that TTX may not represent a risk for human consumption of bivalve mollusks.
Video Sensing of Nearshore Bathymetry Evolution with Error Estimate
Authors: Thuan Duong Hai , Almar Rafael , Marchesiello Patrick , Viet Nguyen Trung
Published: July 2019

Although coastal morphology results essentially from underwater sediment transports, the evolution of underwater beach profiles along the diverse coastlines of the world is still poorly documented. Bathymetry inversion from shore-based video cameras set forth a more systematic evaluation and is becoming more commonly used. However, there are limitations to this profiling method that are insufficiently assessed, undermining confidence in operational applications. In this paper, we investigate the daily evolution of a low tide terrace (LTT) in Nha Trang beach, Vietnam, under strong seasonal forcing: from weak wind waves during summer monsoon to moderate waves during winter monsoon. A new error estimation for depth inversion is presented based on tidal evaluation. The method compares video-based estimate and direct measurement of tidal amplitudes to provide a quality criterion. It reveals three types of errors, the main one being a deep water error associated with physical limits—loss of celerity-bathymetry relationship in deep water. This error is dependent on wave period and thus has a strong seasonal pattern in Vietnam. It is generally detrimental to depth inversion where wind waves are dominant (in summer here). On the contrary, the second error type is larger for larger waves and is located at breakpoint, altering wave detection. The last error type is due to nonlinear effects and wave setup in shallow water. After removing the faulty data, we finally present the first reliable three-year time-series of a beach profile in Nha Trang, Vietnam. A main result is the overall stability demonstrated for the LTT beach, with rapid exchange of sediment between the terrace and the upper beach during typhoons, monsoon events or seasonal cycles. These tropical environments may provide faster beach recovery compared with mid-latitude configurations.
The Burden of Serious Fungal Infections in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Turdumambetova Gulnura K. , Osmanov Ali , Denning David W.
Published: July 2019

Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia has a population of 6 million people who have high mortality rates for chronic lung diseases. The mountainous geography, widespread use of biomass fuels for cooking and indoor heating, and high rates of smoking are the major contributing factors. We have estimated the number of serious fungal infections in order to define the burden of these diseases in Kyrgyzstan. We estimated 774 cases of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) as a sequel of tuberculosis (TB); CPA occurs as a sequel of multiple conditions, so a total prevalence of 3097 cases was estimated, which is among the highest rates in the world. An estimated 2205 patients have allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and 2911 have severe asthma with fungal sensitization (SAFS), which may be an underestimate. There are approximately 292 cases of invasive aspergillosis annually. The number of adult women who get recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is 175,949. We approximated 787 cases of oral and 294 cases of esophageal candidiasis, 25 cases of cryptococcal meningitis, and 101 cases of Pneumocystis pneumonia annually in HIV-positive patients. The incidence of candidemia was estimated at 300. We have estimated that a total of 185,961 people (3% of the population) have serious fungal infection in Kyrgyzstan. Given this burden, diagnostic improvements are necessary.
Correlation of Tribological Behavior and Fatigue Properties of Filled and Unfilled TPUs
Authors: Wang Chao , Stiller Tanja , Hausberger Andreas , Pinter Gerald , Grün Florian , Schwarz Thomas
Published: July 2019

For a long service time, fatigue has been a typical problem that mechanical sealing materials face. How does it relate to tribological performance? In this study, filled and unfilled thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) were investigated. Dumbbell and faint wait pure shear (FWPS) specimens were used to characterize the fatigue properties and crack growth rate of TPUs, respectively. Additionally, to identify the impact of temperature on fatigue tests, the tests were conducted at room temperature and 80 °C. Different tribological tests were conducted to investigate their tribological properties. Fracture surfaces from fatigue tests and worn surfaces from tribological tests were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Two wear models were verified to correlate between fatigue and tribological properties; one of the models is better for rough counter surfaces, while the other is advantageous if the counter surface is smooth.
Magnetoresistance and Thermal Transformation Arrest in Pd2Mn1.4Sn0.6 Heusler Alloys
Authors: Xu Xiao , Okada Hironari , Chieda Yusuke , Aizawa Naoki , Takase Daiki , Nishihara Hironori , Sakon Takuo , Han Kwangsik , Ito Tatsuya , Adachi Yoshiya , Kihara Takumi , Kainuma Ryosuke , Kanomata Takeshi
Published: July 2019

The magnetization, electric resistivity, and magnetoresistance properties of Pd 2 Mn 1 . 4 Sn 0 . 6 Heusler alloys were investigated. The Curie temperature of the parent phase, martensitic transformation temperatures, and magnetic field dependence of the martensitic transformation temperatures were determined. The magnetoresistance was investigated from 10 to 290 K, revealing both intrinsic and extrinsic magnetoresistance properties for this alloy. A maximum of about − 3 . 5 % of intrinsic magnetoresistance under 90 kOe and of about − 30 % of extrinsic magnetoresistance under 180 kOe were obtained. Moreover, the thermal transformation arrest phenomenon was confirmed in the Pd 2 Mn 1 . 4 Sn 0 . 6 alloy, and an abnormal heating-induced martensitic transformation (HIMT) behavior was observed.
Assessment of Validity of Selected Criteria of Fatigue Life Prediction
Authors: Kluger Krzysztof , Pawliczek Roland
Published: July 2019

The paper reports on the results of a comparison involving mathematical models applied for fatigue life calculations where the mean load value is taken into account. Several models based on the critical plane approach and energy density parameter were tested and analyzed. A fatigue test results for three types of materials are presented in this paper. The specimens were subjected to bending, torsion and a combination of bending with torsion with mean value of the load. Analysis of the calculation results show that the best fatigue life estimations are obtained by using models that are sensitive to the changes of material behavior under fatigue loading in relation to the specified number of cycles of the load.
The Use of Eutectic Fe-Si-B Alloy as a Phase Change Material in Thermal Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Jiao Jianmeng , Grorud Bettina , Sindland Caroline , Safarian Jafar , Tang Kai , Sellevoll Kathrine , Tangstad Merete
Published: July 2019

Fe-26.38Si-9.35B eutectic alloy is proposed as a phase change material (PCM) as it exhibits high latent heat, high thermal conductivity, moderate melting point, and low cost. For successful implementation of it in the latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) systems, we investigate the use of graphite as a refractory material that withstands long-term melting/solidification in contact with the Fe-26.38Si-9.35B alloy. The PCM has been thermally cycled up to 1–4 times below and above its melting point at the temperature interval of 20 °C or 100 °C. It is observed that this eutectic alloy shows good thermal stability over a small temperature range of 1057–1257 °C. Some SiC and B4C solid precipitation will be formed at the top of the alloy. However, it does not seem to increase with time. The graphite crucible as a refractory material will produce a protective layer of SiC and B4C that will hinder the interaction between the PCM and the crucible. The small volume change during solidification will not break the graphite crucible during cycling. The chemical wear or dissolution of the crucible is negligible. It demonstrates the viability of Fe-26.38Si-9.35B alloy as a heat storage material in this type of container.
Self-Healing Concrete Using Rubber Particles to Immobilize Bacterial Spores
Authors: Xu Hongyin , Lian Jijian , Gao Maomao , Fu Dengfeng , Yan Yue
Published: July 2019

Bacteria-based self-healing concrete is a construction material used to repair cracks in concrete, in which the bacterial spores are immobilized by bacteria carriers. However, the currently available bacteria carriers are not always suitable due to a complicated procedure or high cost. To develop a more suitable bacteria carrier as well as improve the anti-crack capability of self-healing concrete, in this study we evaluate the feasibility of using rubber particles as a novel bacteria carrier in self-healing concrete. Two types of self-healing concrete are prepared with rubber particles of different sizes to quantify the crack-healing effect. In addition, the fluidity and mechanical properties of the self-healing rubber concrete are compared with those of plain concrete and normal rubber concrete. The experimental results show that the self-healing rubber concrete with a particle size of 1~3 mm has a better healing capacity than the self-healing rubber concrete with a particle size of 0.2~0.4 mm, and the width value of the completely healed crack is 0.86 mm. The self-healing rubber concrete has a higher slump than the plain concrete and normal rubber concrete. According to the strength tests, the compressive strengths of the self-healing rubber concrete are low early on but they exceed those of the corresponding normal rubber concrete at 28 days. Moreover, the self-healing rubber concrete has higher splitting tensile strengths than the plain concrete and a better anti-crack capability. The results of a comparison to the other two representative bacterial carriers indicate that rubber particles have potential to be a widely used bacteria carrier for practical engineering applications in self-healing concrete.
Heterocycle Effects on the Liquid Crystallinity of Terthiophene Analogues
Authors: Ester David , McKearney Declan , Herasymchuk Khrystyna , Williams Vance
Published: July 2019

Liquid crystalline self-assembly offers the potential to create highly ordered, uniformly aligned, and defect-free thin-film organic semiconductors. Analogues of one of the more promising classes of liquid crystal semiconductors, 5,5”-dialkyl-α-terthiophenes, were prepared in order to investigate the effects of replacing the central thiophene with either an oxadiazole or a thiadiazole ring. The phase behaviour was examined by differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscopy, and variable temperature x-ray diffraction. While the oxadiazole derivative was not liquid crystalline, thiadiazole derivatives formed smectic C and soft crystal lamellar phases, and maintained lamellar order down to room temperature. Variation of the terminal alkyl chains also influenced the observed phase sequence. Single crystal structures revealed the face-to-face orientation of molecules within the layers in the solid-state, a packing motif that is rationalized based on the shape and dipole of the thiadiazole ring, as corroborated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The solution opto-electronic properties of the systems were characterized by absorption and emission spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT).
Age Hardening of Extruded AA 6005A Aluminium Alloy Powders
Authors: Feijoo Iria , Cabeza Marta , Merino Pedro , Pena Gloria , Rey Pilar
Published: July 2019

Pre-alloyed micron-sized 6005A Al alloy (AA 6005A) powders, with a Mg/Si atomic ratio of 0.75, obtained by high pressure inert gas atomization were consolidated by uniaxial cold pressing at 200 MPa into cylindrical Al containers and hot extruded at 450, 480 and 500 °C with an extrusion rate of 7:1, followed by artificial T6 precipitation hardening. Ageing conditions were varied between 170 °C and 190 °C and times of 6, 7 and 8 h. The microstructure of the extruded profiles was analysed using X-Ray diffractometry (XRD), light optical microscopy (LOM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to study the possible phase transformations. After our results, the peak-aging hardness condition was achieved at 180 °C for 6 h. Mechanical properties of the powder metallurgy (P/M) aluminium alloys consolidated by hot extrusion were superior to those of the extruded profiles of wrought alloy using conventional ingot metallurgy (I/M) billets. AA 6005A wrought P/M alloy via T6 heat treatment shown yield stress of 317 MPa and elongation of 21% at the extrusion pre-heating temperature of 500 °C.
Fueling a Hot Debate on the Application of TiO2 Nanoparticles in Sunscreen
Authors: Sharma Shweta , Sharma Rohit K. , Gaur Kavita , Cátala Torres José F. , Loza-Rosas Sergio A. , Torres Anamaris , Saxena Manoj , Julin Mara , Tinoco Arthur D.
Published: July 2019

Titanium is one of the most abundant elements in the earth’s crust and while there are many examples of its bioactive properties and use by living organisms, there are few studies that have probed its biochemical reactivity in physiological environments. In the cosmetic industry, TiO2 nanoparticles are widely used. They are often incorporated in sunscreens as inorganic physical sun blockers, taking advantage of their semiconducting property, which facilitates absorbing ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sunscreens are formulated to protect human skin from the redox activity of the TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) and are mass-marketed as safe for people and the environment. By closely examining the biological use of TiO2 and the influence of biomolecules on its stability and solubility, we reassess the reactivity of the material in the presence and absence of UV energy. We also consider the alarming impact that TiO2 NP seepage into bodies of water can cause to the environment and aquatic life, and the effect that it can have on human skin and health, in general, especially if it penetrates into the human body and the bloodstream.
Numerical Investigation on Static and Rotor-Dynamic Characteristics of Convergent-Tapered and Divergent-Tapered Hole-Pattern Gas Damper Seals
Authors: Sun Dan , Li Sheng-Yuan , Zhao Huan , Fei Cheng-Wei
Published: July 2019

To study the influence of taper seal clearance on the static and rotor-dynamic characteristics of hole-pattern damper seals, this paper develops three-dimensional transient computational fluid dynamic methods, which comprise single-frequency and multi-frequency elliptical orbit whirl model, by the transient solution combined with a mesh deformation technique. Through the investigations, it is illustrated that: (1) In the present paper, the leakage rates of convergent-tapered hole-pattern damper seals are less than divergent-tapered hole-pattern damper seals for the same average seal clearance, and the maximum relative variation reaches 16%; (2) Compared with a constant clearance hole-pattern damper seal, the maximum relative variation of the rotor-dynamic coefficients is 1,865% for nine taper degrees in this paper; (3) Convergent-tapered hole-pattern damper seals have smaller reaction forces and effective damping coefficient, larger cross-over frequency, and direct stiffness coefficient, while divergent-tapered damper seals have the opposite effects; (4) Divergent-tapered hole-pattern damper seals alleviate the rotor whirl because of a larger effective damping coefficient when the rotor system has large natural frequency and small eccentricity. Convergent-tapered damper seals provide both sealing and journal bearing capabilities at the same time, and are more advantageous to the stability of the rotor system when rotor eccentricity is the main cause of rotor instability.
Research on Erosion-Corrosion Rate of 304 Stainless Steel in Acidic Slurry via Experimental Design Method
Authors: Li Ping , Zhao Yanjie , Wang Libo
Published: July 2019

A full three-factor two-level factorial experimental design method was carried out to investigate the effects of a single factor and their combining actions on weight loss of 304 stainless steels (304 SS). Quantitative analysis was performed to calculate the contribution values of temperature, rotation speed, sulfuric acid concentration, and synergistic actions. In particular, an 8 × 8 matrix was designed for the first time to define variation direction of erosion wear rate by qualitative analysis. The results show that slurry temperature has the most significant influence followed by sulfuric acid concentration. Rotation speed has the smallest effect. The synergies of the parameters all accelerate the weight loss rate, but they exhibit different intensity. This research provides useful guidelines for estimating the effects of environmental factors and material design in practical engineering application.
Effect of Laser Energy Density, Internal Porosity and Heat Treatment on Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Ti6Al4V Alloy Obtained with DMLS Technology
Authors: Mierzejewska Żaneta Anna
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this paper was to determine the influence of selected parameters of Direct Metal Laser Sintering and various heat treatment temperatures on the mechanical properties of Ti6Al4V samples oriented vertically (V, ZX) and horizontally (H, XZ). The performed micro-CT scans of as-build samples revealed that the change in laser energy density significantly influences the change in porosity of the material, which the parameters (130–210 W; 300–1300 mm/s), from 9.31% (130 W, 1300 mm/s) to 0.16% (190 W, 500 mm/s) are given. The mechanical properties, ultimate tensile strength (UTS, Rm) and yield strength (YS, Re) of the DMLS as-build samples, were higher than the ASTM F 1472 standard suggestion (UTS = 1100.13 ± 126.17 MPa, YS = 1065.46 ± 127.91 MPa), and simultaneously, the elongation at break was lower than required for biomedical implants (A = 4.23 ± 1.24%). The low ductility and high UTS were caused by a specific microstructure made of α’ martensite and columnar prior β grains. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that heat treatment at 850 °C for 2 h caused the change of the microstructure intothe α + β combination, affecting the change of strength parameters—a reduction of UTS and YS with the simultaneous increase in elongation (A). Thus, properties similar to those indicated by the standard were obtained (UTS = 908.63 ± 119.49 MPa, YS = 795.9 ± 159.32 MPa, A = 8.72 ± 2.51%), while the porosity remained almost unchanged. Moreover, the heat treatment at 850 °C resulted in the disappearance of anisotropic material properties caused by the layered structure (UTSZX = 908.36 ± 122.79 MPa, UTSXZ = 908.97 ± 118.198 MPa, YSZX = 807.83 ± 124.05 MPa, YSXZ = 810.56 ± 124.05 MPa, AZX = 8.75 ± 2.65%, and AXZ = 8.68 ± 2.41%).
Dynamic Parallel Mining Algorithm of Association Rules Based on Interval Concept Lattice
Authors: Yang Yafeng , Zhang Ru , Liu Baoxiang
Published: July 2019

An interval concept lattice is an expansion form of a classical concept lattice and a rough concept lattice. It is a conceptual hierarchy consisting of a set of objects with a certain number or proportion of intent attributes. Interval concept lattices refine the proportion of intent containing extent to get a certain degree of object set, and then mine association rules, so as to achieve minimal cost and maximal return. Faced with massive data, the structure of an interval concept lattice is more complex. Even if the lattice structures have been united first, the time complexity of mining interval association rules is higher. In this paper, the principle of mining association rules with parameters is studied, and the principle of a vertical union algorithm of interval association rules is proposed. On this basis, a dynamic mining algorithm of interval association rules is designed to achieve rule aggregation and maintain the diversity of interval association rules. Finally, the rationality and efficiency of the algorithm are verified by a case study.
Measures of Probabilistic Neutrosophic Hesitant Fuzzy Sets and the Application in Reducing Unnecessary Evaluation Processes
Authors: Shao Songtao , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: July 2019

Distance measure and similarity measure have been applied to various multi-criteria decision-making environments, like talent selections, fault diagnoses and so on. Some improved distance and similarity measures have been proposed by some researchers. However, hesitancy is reflected in all aspects of life, thus the hesitant information needs to be considered in measures. Then, it can effectively avoid the loss of fuzzy information. However, regarding fuzzy information, it only reflects the subjective factor. Obviously, this is a shortcoming that will result in an inaccurate decision conclusion. Thus, based on the definition of a probabilistic neutrosophic hesitant fuzzy set (PNHFS), as an extended theory of fuzzy set, the basic definition of distance, similarity and entropy measures of PNHFS are established. Next, the interconnection among the distance, similarity and entropy measures are studied. Simultaneously, a novel measure model is established based on the PNHFSs. In addition, the new measure model is compared by some existed measures. Finally, we display their applicability concerning the investment problems, which can be utilized to avoid redundant evaluation processes.
A Novel Integral Equation for the Riemann Zeta Function and Large t-Asymptotics
Authors: Kalimeris Konstantinos , Fokas Athanassios S.
Published: July 2019

Based on the new approach to Lindelöf hypothesis recently introduced by one of the authors, we first derive a novel integral equation for the square of the absolute value of the Riemann zeta function. Then, we introduce the machinery needed to obtain an estimate for the solution of this equation. This approach suggests a substantial improvement of the current large t - asymptotics estimate for ζ 1 2 + i t .
On Extended Adjacency Index with Respect to Acyclic, Unicyclic and Bicyclic Graphs
Authors: Yang Bin , Manjalapur Vinayak V. , Sajjan Sharanu P. , Mathai Madhura M. , Liu Jia-Bao
Published: July 2019

For a (molecular) graph G, the extended adjacency index E A ( G ) is defined as Equation (1). In this paper we introduce some graph transformations which increase or decrease the extended adjacency ( E A ) index. Also, we obtain the extremal acyclic, unicyclic and bicyclic graphs with minimum and maximum of the E A index by a unified method, respectively.
The Impact of Viscous Dissipation on the Thin Film Unsteady Flow of GO-EG/GO-W Nanofluids
Authors: Rehman Ali , Salleh Zabidin , Gul Taza , Zaheer Zafar
Published: July 2019

The unsteady flow of nanoliquid film over a flexible surface has been inspected. Water and ethylene glycol are used as the base liquids for the graphene oxide platelets. The comparison of two sorts of nanoliquids has been used for heat transfer enhancement applications. The thickness of the nanoliquid film is kept as a variable. The governing equations for the flow problem have been altered into the set of nonlinear differential equations. The BVP 2.0 package has been used for the solution of the problem. The sum of the square residual error has been calculated up to the 10th order approximations. It has been observed that the graphene oxide ethylene glycol based nanofluid (GO-EG) is more efficient for heat transfer enhancement as compared to the graphene oxide water based nanofluid (GO-W). The impact of the physical parameters has been plotted and discussed.
One-Point Optimal Family of Multiple Root Solvers of Second-Order
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Sharma Janak Raj , Cesarano Clemente
Published: July 2019

This manuscript contains the development of a one-point family of iterative functions. The family has optimal convergence of a second-order according to the Kung-Traub conjecture. This family is used to approximate the multiple zeros of nonlinear equations, and is based on the procedure of weight functions. The convergence behavior is discussed by showing some essential conditions of the weight function. The well-known modified Newton method is a member of the proposed family for particular choices of the weight function. The dynamical nature of different members is presented by using a technique called the “basin of attraction”. Several practical problems are given to compare different methods of the presented family.
Practical Stability with Respect to h-Manifolds for Impulsive Control Functional Differential Equations with Variable Impulsive Perturbations
Authors: Stamov Gani , Stamova Ivanka , Li Xiaodi , Gospodinova Ekaterina
Published: July 2019

The present paper is devoted to the problems of practical stability with respect to h-manifolds for impulsive control differential equations with variable impulsive perturbations. We will consider these problems in light of the Lyapunov–Razumikhin method of piecewise continuous functions. The new results are applied to an impulsive control cellular neural network model with variable impulsive perturbations.
Selective Suppression of Cell Growth and Programmed Cell Death-Ligand 1 Expression in HT1080 Fibrosarcoma Cells by Low Molecular Weight Fucoidan Extract
Authors: Teruya Kiichiro , Kusumoto Yoshihiro , Eto Hiroshi , Nakamichi Noboru , Shirahata Sanetaka
Published: July 2019

Low molecular weight fucoidan extract (LMF), prepared by an abalone glycosidase digestion of a crude fucoidan extracted from Cladosiphon novae-caledoniae Kylin, exhibits various biological activities, including anticancer effect. Various cancers express programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), which is known to play a significant role in evasion of the host immune surveillance system. PD-L1 is also expressed in many types of normal cells for self-protection. Previous research has revealed that selective inhibition of PD-L1 expressed in cancer cells is critical for successful cancer eradication. In the present study, we analyzed whether LMF could regulate PD-L1 expression in HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells. Our results demonstrated that LMF suppressed PD-L1/PD-L2 expression and the growth of HT1080 cancer cells and had no effect on the growth of normal TIG-1 cells. Thus, LMF differentially regulates PD-L1 expression in normal and cancer cells and could serve as an alternative complementary agent for treatment of cancers with high PD-L1 expression.
A New ABCA3 Gene Mutation c.3445G>A (p.Asp1149Asn) as a Causative Agent of Newborn Lethal Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Mitsiakos Georgios , Tsakalidis Christos , Karagianni Paraskevi , Gialamprinou Dimitra , Chatziioannidis Ilias , Papoulidis Ioannis , Tsanakas Ioannis , Soubasi Vasiliki
Published: July 2019

Mutations in adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter A3 (ABCA3) (OMIM: 601615) gene constitute the most frequent genetic cause of severe neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) in children. Interstitial lung disease in children and especially in infants, in contrast to adults, is more likely to appear as a result of developmental deficits or is characterized by genetic aberrations of pulmonary surfactant homeostasis not responding to exogenous surfactant administration. The underlying ABCA3 gene mutations are commonly thought, regarding null mutations, to determine the clinical course of the disease while there exist mutation types, especially missense variants, whose effects on surfactant proteins are difficult to predict. In addition, clinical and radiological signs overlap with those of surfactant proteins B and C mutations making diagnosis challenging. We demonstrate a case of a one-term newborn male with lethal respiratory failure caused by homozygous missense ABCA3 gene mutation c.3445G>A (p.Asp1149Asn), which, to our knowledge, was not previously reported as a causative agent of newborn lethal RDS. Therapeutic strategies for patients with ABCA3 gene mutations are not sufficiently evidence-based. Therefore, the description of the clinical course and treatment of the disease in terms of a likely correlation between genotype and phenotype is crucial for the development of the optimal clinical approach for affected individuals.
Neuropsychiatric and Behavioral Involvement in AAS Abusers. A Literature Review
Authors: Bertozzi Giuseppe , Salerno Monica , Pomara Cristoforo , Sessa Francesco
Published: July 2019

Background and Objectives: Anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) are a complex group of molecules that include both steroidal androgens and synthetic compounds, derived from testosterone. AASs are commonly used to support pharmacological therapy in cases of primary or secondary hypogonadism, major burns, and neoplastic cachexia. Their prolonged and supra-physiological consumption can provoke several adverse effects on various organs and systems. Among these, the physiopathological mechanisms that induce neuropsychiatric disorders related to AAS abuse are poorly known. For this reason, the proposed review aims to retrace the pathway of action of testosterone to focus on the effects on the central nervous system and specifically highlight the effects of AASs on neuropsychiatric and behavioral functions, as well as on lifestyle. Materials and Methods: This review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. On these database websites, we searched for articles from 1 January 1980 to March 2019 using the key terms: “AAS,” “Anabolic Androgenic Steroids,” “brain,” and “neurology.” Results: The use of AASs through self-administration yields circulating androgens levels, inducing neuron apoptosis, which is linked to thinner cortex and, in general, less cortical volume. The same alterations affect the putamen. These differences were more evident when correlated with longer use. From a functional point of view, prolonged AAS consumption seemed to be related to lower connectivity between amygdala and frontal, striatal, limbic, hippocampal and visual cortical areas. On the other hand, AAS use seems to negatively condition the positive effects of the sport exercise, reducing its important anti-apoptotic and pro-proliferative functions on the hippocampus, implicated in anxiolytic control. Conclusion: This review clarifies the major aspects of the side effects related to AAS use/abuse highlighting the complex mechanisms on neuropsychiatric and cognitive pathological alterations and also the emotional and behavioral dysfunctions.
Analysis of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption by Children in School Canteens Depending on Selected Sociodemographic Factors
Authors: Łuszczki Edyta , Sobek Grzegorz , Bartosiewicz Anna , Baran Joanna , Weres Aneta , Dereń Katarzyna , Mazur Artur
Published: July 2019

Background and Objectives: Eating habits acquired or changed during childhood are likely to track into adulthood. Due to the fact that nutritional behaviours are not so strongly formed among children, it is easier to change and develop them in children than in adults. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of selected sociodemographic factors affecting fruit and vegetable consumption (i.e., age, parents’ body mass index, parents’ level education, duration of breastfeeding, child’s time spent in front of computer/television) among children in school canteens. Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of 106 participants (52 girls, 54 boys) aged 6–12. The frequency of consuming fruits and vegetables at a school canteen was assessed using bar code cards for two weeks. Body composition estimates were obtained using a foot-to-foot bioelectrical impedance analysis, body height was measured using a stadiometer Seca 213. The questionnaire contained questions about selected factors which can have an influence on fruit and vegetable consumption. In the study group, 13.2% of participants were overweight and 17.9% were obese. Results: Our results showed a statistically significant relationship between age and fruit and vegetable consumption, and it increased with age in both sexes. Conclusions: Bearing in mind the various conditions discussed when shaping the eating habits of pre-school- and early-school-aged children, the importance of proper nutritional education should be stressed both among children and parents.
Beliefs, Practices and Health Care Seeking Behavior of Parents Regarding Fever in Children
Authors: Urbane Urzula Nora , Likopa Zane , Gardovska Dace , Pavare Jana
Published: July 2019

Background and objectives: Fever in children is one of the most common reasons for seeking medical attention. Parents often have misconceptions about the effects to fever, which leads to inappropriate use of medication and nonurgent visits to emergency departments (ED). The aim of this study was to clarify the beliefs on the effects and management of fever and to identify healthcare seeking patterns among parents of febrile children in Latvia. Materials and Methods: Parents and legal guardians of children attending ED with febrile illness were included in the study. Participants were recruited in Children’s Clinical University Hospital (CCUH) in Riga, and in six regional hospitals in Latvia. Data on beliefs about fever, administration of antipyretics, healthcare-seeking behavior, and experience in communication with health care workers were collected via questionnaire. Results: In total, 355 participants were enrolled: 199 in CCUH and 156 in regional hospitals; 59.2% of participants considered fever itself as indicative of serious illness and 92.8% believed it could raise the child’s body temperature up to a dangerous level. Antipyretics were usually administered at median temperature of 38.0 °C, and the median temperature believed to be dangerous was 39.7 °C; 56.7% of parents usually contacted a doctor within the first 24 h of the illness. Parents who believed that lower temperatures are dangerous to a child were more likely to contact a doctor earlier and out-of-hours; 60.1% of participants had contacted their family doctor prior their visit to ED. Parental evaluation of satisfaction with the information and reassurance provided by the doctors at the hospital was higher than of that provided by their family doctor; 68.2% of participants felt safer when their febrile children were treated at the hospital. Conclusions: Fever itself was regarded as indicative of serious illness and potentially dangerous to the child’s life. These misconceptions lead to inappropriate administration of antipyretics and early-seeking of medical attention, even out-of-hours. Hospital environment was viewed as safer and more reassuring when dealing with febrile illness in children. More emphasis must be placed on parental education on proper management of fever, especially in primary care
Dream Recall and Content versus the Menstrual Cycle: A Cross-Sectional Study in Healthy Women
Authors: Ilias Ioannis , Economou Nicholas-Tiberio , Lekkou Anastasia , Romigi Andrea , Koukkou Eftychia
Published: July 2019

The association between sleep and the menstrual cycle has been scarcely studied. This study aimed to investigate the association between dream recall and content and the menstrual cycle among a large sample of young women. To this aim, 944 women were asked about their day of menstrual cycle, whether they remembered the previous night’s dreams and if they did so to describe the dream content as pleasant or unpleasant. A total of 378 women recalled the previous nights’ dreams, with 199 reporting pleasant dream affect/content and 179 reporting unpleasant dream content. In women who recalled their dreams, there was an association of pleasant dream content with the luteal phase (p = 0.038). In conclusion, in women, the hormonal milieu of the luteal phase may influence dream content.
Metal Organic Framework Based Polymer Mixed Matrix Membranes: Review on Applications in Water Purification
Authors: Elrasheedy Asmaa , Nady Norhan , Bassyouni Mohamed , El-Shazly Ahmed
Published: July 2019

Polymeric membranes have been widely employed for water purification applications. However, the trade-off issue between the selectivity and permeability has limited its use in various applications. Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) were introduced to overcome this limitation and to enhance the properties and performance of polymeric membranes by incorporation of fillers such as silica and zeolites. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a new class of hybrid inorganic–organic materials that are introduced as novel fillers for incorporation in polymeric matrix to form composite membranes for different applications especially water desalination. A major advantage of MOFs over other inorganic fillers is the possibility of preparing different structures with different pore sizes and functionalities, which are designed especially for a targeted application. Different MMMs fabrication techniques have also been investigated to fabricate MMMs with pronounced properties for a specific application. Synthesis techniques include blending, layer-by-layer (LBL), gelatin-assisted seed growth and in situ growth that proved to give the most homogenous dispersion of MOFs within the organic matrix. It was found that the ideal filler loading of MOFs in different polymeric matrices is 10%, increasing the filler loading beyond this value led to formation of aggregates that significantly decreased the MOFs-MMMs performance. Despite the many merits of MOFs-MMMs, the main challenge facing the upscaling and wide commercial application of MOFs-MMMs is the difficult synthesis conditions of the MOFs itself and the stability and sustainability of MOFs-MMMs performance. Investigation of new MOFs and MOFs-MMMs synthesis techniques should be carried out for further industrial applications. Among these new synthesis methods, green MOFs synthesis has been highlighted as low cost, renewable, environmentally friendly and recyclable starting materials for MOFs-MMMs. This paper will focus on the investigation of the effect of different recently introduced MOFs on the performance of MOFs-MMMs in water purification applications.