bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Evaluation of an Immuno-Capture Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay to Quantify the Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capripneumoniae (Mccp) Protein in Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP) Vaccine
Authors: Baziki Jean de Dieu , Charles Bodjo S. , Nwankpa Nick , Maina Naomi , Chitsungo Ethel , Boukary Cisse Rahamatou Moustapha , Tefera Takele A. , Nwankpa Rume Veronica , Mwangi Nduta
Published: January 2020

An effective contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) vaccine is essential for the increased production of healthy goats in a cost-effective manner and the prevention of animal-to-animal transmission for both domestic animals and wildlife. Quality control of this vaccine ensures that a reliable supply of pure, safe, and potent batches is obtained. As part of this control, in vitro quantification of Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capripneumoniae (Mccp) protein in the final vaccines is required before the CCPP vaccine undergoes batch release and certification. The current method used for quantification is based on the measurement of total protein using the bicinchonic acid (BCA) test. This method quantifies the total amount of protein in the vaccine including contaminant protein from media, which can lead to overestimation of the quantity of Mccp protein, resulting in reduced vaccine immunogenicity. An immuno-capture ELISA (ICE) was developed for specific detection and quantification of the Mccp antigen in the CCPP vaccine. As the ICE detects and measures the amount of antigen between two layers of antibodies, capture and detecting antibodies are required. Mouse monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that detect the Mccp antigen were produced and characterized. One of these mAbs, Mccp-25, was used to develop the ICE as an unlabelled capture antibody and horseradish peroxidase conjugated detecting antibody. The ICE was standardized and evaluated using an internal reference sample, experimental CCPP vaccines and commercial CCPP vaccines. A comparison between the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ICE showed good correlation between the two assays. Also, an in vitro ICE method correlated well with an in vivo sero-conversion in goats that were vaccinated with selected test vaccines. The sensitivity of the ICE was estimated at 30 ng/ml.
Reliability Optimization Model of Stop-Skipping Bus Operation with Capacity Constraints
Authors: Mou Zhenhua , Zhang Hu , Liang Shidong
Published: January 2020

In a bus line with high passenger demand, the stop-skipping operation can benefit both users and operators as well as improve the service level of bus line, but it usually cannot be effectively adopted by operators because of the unordered operation of buses and the discomfort of waiting passenger at stops. Therefore, the stop-skipping operation requires higher reliability for stop serving. This paper proposes a reliable stop-skipping service design with holding strategy by taking into account bus capacity constraints. Under a stop-skipping service, the holding strategy is used to balance the interval of stop serving rather than the headway of buses. Meanwhile, to reflect the actual boarding process of waiting passengers, the number of left-over passengers and the waiting time are calculated during serving time and holding time, respectively. The objective function is to minimize the total costs of bus operation system. Besides, a Genetic Algorithm combined with Monte Carlo Simulation method is defined and implemented to solve the reliability optimization model. Finally, a numerical example based on a bus route in Changchun city is carried out to test the reliability optimization model. Results showed that the reliability optimization strategy can improve the stability of stop service and then save cost of passengers’ travel time.
Factors Associated with Poor Glycemic and Lipid Levels in Ambulatory Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Patients in Asmara, Eritrea: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Achila Oliver Okoth , Ghebretinsae Millen , Kidane Abraham , Simon Michael , Makonen Shewit , Rezene Yohannes
Published: January 2020

Objective. There is a dearth of relevant research on the rapidly evolving epidemic of diabetes mellitus (particularly Type 2 diabetes mellitus) in sub-Saharan Africa. To address some of these issues in the Eritrean context, we conducted a cross-sectional study on glycemic and lipid profiles and associated risk factors. Methods. A total of 309 patients with diabetes mellitus on regular follow-up at the Diabetic and Hypertensive Department at Halibet Regional Referral Hospital, Asmara, were enrolled for the study. Data on specific clinical chemistry and anthropomorphic parameters was collected. Chi-squared (χ2) test or Fischer’s exact test was used to evaluate the relationship between specific variables. Multivariate logistic regression (backward: conditional) was undertaken to identify the factors associated with increased odds of suboptimal values in glucose and specific lipid panel subfractions. Results. High proportions of patients (76.7%) had suboptimal levels of HbA1c with a mean±SD of 8.6%±1.36, respectively. In multivariate regression analysis, the likelihood of HbA1c≥7% was higher in patients with abnormal WHR (AOR=3.01, 95% CI, 3.01 (1.15–7.92=0.024)) and in patients without hypertension (AOR=1.97, 95% CI (1.06–3.56), p=0.021). A unit reduction in eGFR was also associated with HbA1c≥7% (AOR=0.99, 95% CI (0.98–1=0.031)). In a separate analysis, the data shows that 80.9% of the patients had dyslipidemia. In particular, 62.1% of the patients had TC≥200 mg/dL (risk factors: sex, hypertension, and HbA1c concentration), 81.6% had LDL‐C≥100 mg/dL (risk factors: sex and hypertension), 56.3% had TG≥150 (risk factors: sex, HbA1c, and waist circumference), 62.8% had abnormal HDL-C (risk factors: waist circumference), 78.3% had non‐HDL<130 mg/dL (risk factors: duration of disease, reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate, and HbA1c), and 45.3% had abnormal TG/HDL (risk factors: sex, age of patient, FPG, and waist circumference). Conclusions. The quality of care, as measured by glycemic and specific lipid targets, in this setting is suboptimal. Therefore, there is an urgent need for simultaneous improvements in both indicators. This will require evidence-based optimization of pharmacological and lifestyle interventions. Therefore, additional studies, preferably longitudinal studies with long follow-up, are required on multiple aspects of DM.
A Novel Online Portfolio Selection Strategy with Multiperiodical Asymmetric Mean Reversion
Authors: Peng Zijin , Xu Weijun , Li Hongyi
Published: January 2020

Mean reversion is an important property when constructing efficient contrarian strategies. Researchers observe that mean reversion has multiperiodical and asymmetric nature simultaneously in real market. To better utilize mean reversion and improve the existing online portfolio selection strategies, we propose a new online strategy named multiperiodical asymmetric mean reversion (MAMR). The MAMR strategy incorporates a multipiecewise loss function with the moving average method and then imitates the passive-aggressive algorithm. We further provide a solution via convex optimization. This strategy runs in linear time and thus is suitable for large-scale trading applications. Our empirical results testing six real market datasets show that this strategy can achieve better results in bearing higher transaction cost.
AVE0991, a Nonpeptide Angiotensin 1-7 Receptor Agonist, Improves Glucose Metabolism in the Skeletal Muscle of Obese Zucker Rats: Possible Involvement of Prooxidant/Antioxidant Mechanisms
Authors: Dobrocsyova Viktoria , Slamkova Miroslava , Krskova Katarina , Balazova Lucia , Suski Maciej , Olszanecki Rafal , Cacanyiova Sona , Zorad Stefan
Published: January 2020

Angiotensin 1-7 (Ang 1-7) enhances insulin signaling and glucose transport activity in the skeletal muscle. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of AVE0991, a nonpeptide Mas receptor agonist, on the metabolic parameters, expression of RAS components and markers of oxidative stress, and insulin signaling in the skeletal morbidly obese rats. 33-week-old male obese Zucker rats were treated with vehicle and AVE0991 (0.5 mg/kg BW/day) via osmotic minipumps for two weeks. Gene expressions were determined by qPCR and/or Western blot analysis in musculus quadriceps. The enzymatic activities were detected flourometrically (aminopeptidase A) or by colorimetric assay kit (protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B). Administration of AVE0991 enhanced insulin signaling cascade in the skeletal muscle, reflected by improved whole-body glucose tolerance. It has been shown that reactive oxygen species (ROS) have insulin-mimetic action in muscle. The expression of renin receptor, transcription factor PLZF, and prooxidant genes was upregulated by AVE0991 accompanied by elevated expression of genes coding enzymes with antioxidant action. Our results show that AVE0991 administration activates genes involved in both ROS generation and clearance establishing a new prooxidant/antioxidant balance on a higher level, which might contribute to the improved insulin signaling pathway and glucose tolerance of obese Zucker rats.
Research on Hyperspectral Image Reconstruction Based on GISMT Compressed Sensing and Interspectral Prediction
Authors: Cang Sheng , Wang Achuan
Published: January 2020

Hyperspectral remote-sensing images have the characteristics of large transmission data and high propagation requirements, so they are faced with transmission and preservation problems in the process of transmission. In view of this situation, this paper proposes a spectral image reconstruction algorithm based on GISMT compressed sensing and interspectral prediction. Firstly, according to the high spectral correlation of hyperspectral remote-sensing images, the hyperspectral images are grouped according to the band, and a standard band is determined in each group. The standard band in each group is weighted by the GISMT compressed sensing method. Then, a prediction model of the general band in each group is established to realize the remote-sensing image reconstruction in the general band. Finally, the difference between the actual measured value and the predicted value is calculated. According to the prediction algorithm, the corresponding difference vector is obtained and the predicted measured value is iteratively updated by the difference vector until the hyperspectral reconstructed image of the relevant general band is finally reconstructed. It is shown by experiments that this method can effectively improve the reconstruction effect of hyperspectral images.
Clinical and Economical Outcomes Associated with Parathyroidectomy: A 5-Year Population-Based Study in a Middle-Income Country with Universal Health Coverage
Authors: Contreras Kateir , Baquero Romar , Buitrago Giancarlo
Published: January 2020

Parathyroidectomy (PTX) is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. The objective of this study was to determine the intensive care unit (ICU) admission, mortality and hospital readmission rates within the 30-day postoperative period, and the total cost of the care episode and to determine possible prognostic factors in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) adult patients taken to PTX in the Colombian contributory health system.Methods. Retrospective cohort study of ESRD adult patients affiliated to the Colombian contributory health system, on dialysis for at least 3 months, undergoing PTX between January 1, 2012, and November 30, 2016. The clinical outcomes evaluated were rehospitalization at 30 days, hospital stay, and ICU requirement. The costs associated with the hospitalization event in which the PTX was performed from the perspective of the third payer were estimated.Results. The study included 478 patients. The mortality rate was 2.09 per 100 surgeries, the ICU admission rate was 32.64 per 100 surgeries, the 30-day hospital readmission percentage of the postoperative period was 16.74%, and the average length of hospital stay was 5.02 days. The median total costs of care for the entire procedure was USD $ 7,814.27 (p25-p75: 3,922.03–9,372.68), with significant regional differences. The geographical region was shown as a prognostic factor associated with clinical outcomes and the cost of care.Conclusions. There are large regional differences in readmission, ICU admission and mortality rates, and costs of dialysis ESRD patients undergoing PTX belonging to the Colombian contributory regime. The geographic region behaves as an independent predictor of clinical outcomes and costs.
Experimental Study on the Deformation and Strength Characteristics of Saturated Clay under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Zhang Jian , Sun Yangguang , Cao Jiuting
Published: January 2020

The deformation and strength characteristics of saturated clay are studied through a cyclic triaxial test of clay in the Wenchuan earthquake area. Specifically, the effects of cyclic stress ratio, initial shear stress, and vibration frequency on the dynamic characteristics of saturated clay are analysed. Results show a failure strain in the dynamic strain development of saturated clay. Before the failure strain, the dynamic strain of soil develops slowly. After the failure strain, the soil strain increases sharply and leads to failure. Under the same confining pressure, the failure strain produced by different cyclic stress ratios has a linear relationship with the failure frequency. The dynamic strain development curve of saturated clay can be simplified to failure, transition, and stability types, which are mainly affected by the cyclic stress ratio. Initial shear stress and vibration frequency have significant effects on the deformation and strength characteristics of saturated clay. The larger the initial shear stress or the lower the vibration frequency is, the more sufficient the dynamic strain of soil develops and the fewer the number of cycles required to reach the same dynamic strain. Under the same number of cycles, the larger the initial shear stress or the lower the vibration frequency, the smaller the dynamic stress required to cause soil failure and the lower the dynamic strength of the soil. A turning point exists in the dynamic strength curve of clay. The smaller the initial shear stress or the higher the vibration frequency, the smoother the curve after the turning point and the smaller the tangent slope.
Research Progress on the Role of Inflammasomes in Kidney Disease
Authors: Chi Kun , Geng Xiaodong , Liu Chao , Cai GuangYan , Hong Quan
Published: January 2020

Inflammasomes are multimeric complexes composed of cytoplasmic sensors, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase activation and recruitment domain (ASC or PYCARD), and procaspase-1 and play roles in regulating caspase-dependent inflammation and cell death. Inflammasomes are assembled by sensing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and initiate inflammatory responses by activating caspase-1. Activated caspase-1 promotes the release of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18 and eventually induces pyroptosis. Inflammasomes are closely related to kidney diseases. In particular, the NLRP3 (NACHT, LRR, and PYD domain-containing protein 3) inflammasome has been shown to cause acute and chronic kidney diseases by regulating canonical and noncanonical mechanisms of inflammation. Small-molecule inhibitors that target NLRP3 and other components of the inflammasome are potential options for the treatment of kidney-related diseases such as diabetic nephropathy. This article will focus on the research progress on inflammasomes and the key pathogenic roles of inflammasomes in the development and progression of kidney diseases and explore the potential of this intracellular inflammation to further prevent or block the development of the kidney disease.
Ganoderma lucidum Triterpenoids (GLTs) Reduce Neuronal Apoptosis via Inhibition of ROCK Signal Pathway in APP/PS1 Transgenic Alzheimer’s Disease Mice
Authors: Yu Nanhui , Huang Yongpan , Jiang Yu , Zou Lianhong , Liu Xiehong , Liu Sulai , Chen Fang , Luo Jun , Zhu Yimin
Published: January 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia among senior citizen. Ganoderma lucidum triterpenoids (GLTs) have nutritional health benefits and has been shown to promote health and longevity, but a protective effect of GLTs on AD damage has not yet been reported. The objective of this research was to elucidate the phylactic effect of GLTs on AD model mice and cells and to explore its underlying mechanisms. Morris water maze (MWM) test was conducted to detect changes in the cognitive function of mice. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was applied to observe pathological changes in the hippocampus. Silver nitrate staining was applied to observe the hippocampal neuronal tangles (NFTs). Apoptosis of the hippocampal neurons in mouse brain tissue was determined by TUNEL staining. The expression levels of apoptosis-related protein Bcl2, Bax, and caspase 3/cleaved caspase 3; antioxidative protein Nrf2, NQO1, and HO1; and ROCK signaling pathway-associated proteins ROCK2 and ROCK1 were measured by western blot. In vivo experiments show that 5-month-old APP/PS1 mice appeared to have impaired acquisition of spatial learning and GLTs could reduce cognitive impairment in AD mice. Compared to normal mice, the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mouse’s brains was severely damaged, while GLTs could alleviate this symptom by inhibiting apoptosis, relieving oxidative damage, and inactivating the ROCK signaling pathway. In in vitro cell experiments, Aβ25-35 was applied to induce hippocampal neurons into AD model cells. GLTs promoted cell proliferation, facilitated superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression, and inhibited malondialdehyde (MDA) and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) expression of neurons. Our study highlights that GLTs improve cognitive impairment, alleviate neuronal damage, and inhibit apoptosis in the hippocampus tissues and cells in AD through inhibiting the ROCK signaling pathway.
Aldosterone Contributed to Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Development via Stimulating Aquaporin Expression and Pulmonary Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells Proliferation
Authors: Wang Yue , Zhong Bin , Wu Qiyong , Zhu Tao , Wang Yong , Zhang Ming
Published: January 2020

Introduction and Objective: The regulatory network of aquaporin (AQP) 1 and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone (ALDO) system are not quite clear in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Thus, we explored the role of AQP1, ALDO and spirolactone (SP) in the PAH animal model and pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Method: PAH rat model was established by monocrotaline (MCT) via intraperitoneal in SD rat. Hemodynamic measurement was conducted via the external jugular vein cannula. PASMCs were extracted from normal SD rat and cultured in SmGM medium. α-Actin expression was identified by immunocytochemistry. Protein levels were assessed by Western blot. Cell viability was assayed using the MTT method. Apoptosis rate was evaluated by flow cytometry. ALDO level was measured by ELISA. Result: SP decreased AQP1 and β-catenin expressions in PAH rat model induced successfully by MCT. Moreover, ALDO increased AQP1 expression and cell viability in PASMCs, which were extracted from rat and identified by α-actin expression. AQP1 downregulation decreased β-catenin expression, and SP lowered AQP1 and β-catenin expressions elevated by ALDO in PASMCs. SP offset ALDO’s effect on the upregulation of cell viability as well as AQP1 and β-catenin expressions in PASMCs. In addition, AQP1 downregulation and SP have a negative effect on Ki-67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen expressions as well as cell viability after ALDO treatment in PASMCs. Conclusion: ALDO might contribute to PAH development via stimulating AQP1 expression and PASMCs proliferation. However, SP could be considered an effective drug regulating PASMCs proliferation through modulating AQP1 and β-catenin expressions in PAH.
Reliability of Home Nocturnal Oximetry in the Diagnosis of Overlap Syndrome in COPD
Authors: Lajoie Annie-Christine , Sériès Frédéric , Bernard Sarah , Bernard Emmanuelle , Santaolalla Carlos Javier Egea , Abad Fernández Araceli , Maltais François , Lacasse Yves
Published: January 2020

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and sleep apnea are common conditions and often coexist. The proper diagnosis of sleep apnea may affect the management and outcome of patients with COPD. Objective: To determine the accuracy of home nocturnal oximetry to distinguish between nocturnal oxygen desaturation related to COPD alone or to sleep apnea in patients with moderate-to-severe COPD who have significant nocturnal hypoxemia with cyclical changes in saturation. Methods: This study involved a comparison of home nocturnal oximetry and laboratory-based polysomnography (PSG) in patients with moderate-to-severe COPD considered for inclusion in a trial of nocturnal oxygen therapy. All of the patients had significant nocturnal oxygen desaturation (defined as ≥30% of the recording time with a transcutaneous arterial oxygen saturation <90%) with cyclical changes in saturation suggestive of sleep apnea. Results: PSG was obtained in 90 patients; 45 patients (mean age = 68 years, SD = 8; 71% men; mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1] = 50.6% predicted value, SD = 18.6%; data from 41 patients) fulfilled the criteria for sleep apnea (mean apnea-hypopnea index = 32.6 events/h, SD = 19.9) and 45 patients (mean age = 69 years, SD = 8; 87% men; mean FEV1 predicted value 44.6%, SD = 15%) did not (mean apnea-hypopnea index = 5.5 events/h, SD = 3.8). None of the patients’ characteristics (including demographic, anthropometric, and physiologic measures) predicted the diagnosis of sleep apnea according to PSG results. Conclusion: The diagnosis of sleep apnea in patients with moderate to severe COPD cannot rely on nocturnal oximetry alone, even when typical cyclical changes in saturation are seen on oximetry tracing. When suspecting an overlap syndrome, a full-night, in-laboratory PSG should be obtained.
Novel authentication framework for securing communication in internet-of-things
Authors: Patil Shamshekhar S. , Biradar Arun
Published: January 2020

Internet-of-Things (IoT) offers a big boon towards a massive network of connected devices and is considered to offer coverage to an exponential number of the smart appliance in the very near future. Owing to the nascent stage of evolution of IoT, it is shrouded by security loopholes because of various reasons. Review of existing research-based solution highlights the usage of conventional cryptographic-based solution over the traditional mechanism of data forwarding process between IoT nodes and gateway. The proposed system presents a novel solution to this problem by a model that is capable of performing a highly secured and cost-effective authentication process. The proposed system introduces Authentication Using Signature (AUS) as well as Security with Complexity Reduction (SCR) for the purpose to resist participation of any form of unknown threats. The outcome of the model shows better security strength with faster response time and energy saving of the IoT nodes.
Hybrid method for solving the non smooth cost function economic dispatch problem
Authors: Khamsen Wanchai , Takeang Chiraphon , Aunban Patiphat
Published: January 2020

This article is focused on hybrid method for solving the non-smooth cost function economic dispatch problem. The techniques were divided into two parts according to: the incremental cost rates are used to find the initial solution and bee colony optimization is used to find the optimal solution. The constraints of economic dispatch are power losses, load demand and practical operation constraints of generators. To verify the performance of the proposed algorithm, it is operated by the simulation on the MATLAB program and tests three case studies; three, six and thirteen generator units which compared to particle swarm optimization, cuckoo search algorithm, bat algorithm, firefly algorithm and bee colony optimization. The results show that the proposed algorithm is able to obtain higher quality solution efficiently than the others methods.
Parameter estimation of three-phase linear induction motor by a DSP-based electric-drives system
Authors: Toro García Nicolás , Garcés Gómez Yeison Alberto , Hoyos Velasco Fredy Edimer
Published: January 2020

This work describes a method to characterize a three-phase linear induction motor in order to determine the various parameters used in its per-phase equivalent circuit by a DSP-based electric-drives system. In LIM (Linear Induction Motor), the air gap is very large compared with the RIMs (Rotary Induction Motors). Further, the secondary part normally does not have slotted structure. It is just made of aluminum and steel plates. Therefore, the effective air gap is larger than the physical air gap. High air gap makes a larger leakage inductance. It leads to lower efficiency and lower power factor. DC resistance test will be done to determine the value of Rs. The primary Inductance Ls will be calculated by running the LIM at synchronous speed. The secondary parameters i.e. Llr and Rr′ will be calculated by blocked-mover test. The experiment for no load test is shown and include a DC motor coupled to the LIM under test. Two methods to calculate the secondary parameters are described.
Voltage variations identification using gabor transform and rule-based classification method
Authors: Tee Weihown , Yusoff M. R. , Yaakub M. Faizal , Abdullah A. R.
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a comparatively contemporary easy to use technique for the identification and classification of voltage variations. The technique was established based on the Gabor Transform and the rule-based classification method. The technique was tested by using mathematical model of Power Quality (PQ) disturbances based on the IEEE Std 519-2009. The PQ disturbances focused were the voltage variations, which included voltage sag, swell and interruption. A total of 80 signals were simulated from the mathematical model in MATLAB and used in this study. The signals were analyzed by using Gabor Transform and the signal pattern, time-frequency representation (TFR) and root-mean-square voltage graph were presented in this paper. The features of the analysis were extracted, and rules were implemented in rule-based classification to identify and classify the voltage variation accordingly. The results showed that this method is easy to be used and has good accuracy in classifying the voltage variation.
Application on character recognition system on road sign for visually impaired: case study approach and future
Authors: Kim Jaejoon
Published: January 2020

Many visually impaired people worldwide are unable to travel safely and autonomously because they are physically unable to perceive effective visual information during their daily lives. In this research, we study how to extract the character information of the road sign and transmit it to the visually impaired effectively, so they can understand easier. Experimental method is to apply the Maximally Stable External Region and Stroke Width Transform method in Phase I so that the visually impaired person can recognize the letters on the road signs. It is to convey text information to the disabled. The result of Phase I using samples of simple road signs was to extract the sign information after dividing the exact character area, but the accuracy was not good for the Hangul (Korean characters) information. The initial experimental results in the Phase II succeeded in transmitting the text information on Phase I to the visually impaired. In the future, it will be required to develop a wearable character recognition system that can be attached to the visually impaired. In order to perform this task, we need to develop and verify a miniaturized and wearable character recognition system. In this paper, we examined the method of recognizing road sign characters on the road and presented a possibility that may be applicable to our final development.
Framework for comprehensive enhancement of brain tumor images with single-window operation
Authors: Murthy T. S. Deepthi , G. Sadashivappa
Published: January 2020

Usage of grayscale format of radiological images is proportionately more as compared to that of colored one. This format of medical image suffers from all the possibility of improper clinical inference which will lead to error-prone analysis in further usage of such images in disease detection or classification. Therefore, we present a framework that offers single-window operation with a set of image enhancing algorithm meant for further optimizing the visuality of medical images. The framework performs preliminary pre-processing operation followed by implication of linear and non-linear filter and multi-level image enhancement processes. The significant contribution of this study is that it offers a comprehensive mechanism to implement the various enhancement schemes in highly discrete way that offers potential flexibility to physical in order to draw clinical conclusion about the disease being monitored. The proposed system takes the case study of brain tumor to implement to testify the framework.
On tracking control problem for polysolenoid motor model predictive approach
Authors: Hong Quang Nguyen , Phung Quang Nguyen , Trung Hai Do , Nhu Hien Nguyen
Published: January 2020

The Polysolenoid Linear Motor (PLM) have been playing a crucial role in many industrial aspects due to its functions, in which a straight motion is provided directly without mediate mechanical actuators. Recently, with several commons on mathematic model, some control methods for PLM based on Rotational Motor have been applied, but position, velocity and current constraints which are important in real systems have been ignored. In this paper, position tracking control problem for PLM was considered under state-independent disturbances via min-max model predictive control. The proposed controller forces tracking position errors converge to small region of origin and satisfies state including position, velocity and currents constraints. Further, a numerical simulation was implemented to validate the performance of the proposed controller.
Recommendations for Cardiovascular Health and Disease Surveillance for 2030 and Beyond: A Policy Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Roger Véronique L. , Sidney Stephen , Fairchild Amy L. , Howard Virginia J. , Labarthe Darwin R. , Shay Christina M. , Tiner A. Colby , Whitsel Laurie P. , Rosamond Wayne D. ,   On behalf of the American Heart Association Advocacy Coordinating Committee
Published: January 2020

The release of the American Heart Association’s 2030 Impact Goal and associated metrics for success underscores the importance of cardiovascular health and cardiovascular disease surveillance systems for the acquisition of information sufficient to support implementation and evaluation. The aim of this policy statement is to review and comment on existing recommendations for and current approaches to cardiovascular surveillance, identify gaps, and formulate policy implications and pragmatic recommendations for transforming surveillance of cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular health in the United States. The development of community platforms coupled with widespread use of digital technologies, electronic health records, and mobile health has created new opportunities that could greatly modernize surveillance if coordinated in a pragmatic matter. However, technology and public health and scientific mandates must be merged into action. We describe the action and components necessary to create the cardiovascular health and cardiovascular disease surveillance system of the future, steps in development, and challenges that federal, state, and local governments will need to address. Development of robust policies and commitment to collaboration among professional organizations, community partners, and policy makers are critical to ultimately reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease and improve cardiovascular health and to evaluate whether national health goals are achieved.
Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2020 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association
Authors: Virani Salim S. , Alonso Alvaro , Benjamin Emelia J. , Bittencourt Marcio S. , Callaway Clifton W. , Carson April P. , Chamberlain Alanna M. , Chang Alexander R. , Cheng Susan , Delling Francesca N. , Djousse Luc , Elkind Mitchell S.V. , Ferguson Jane F. , Fornage Myriam , Khan Sadiya S. , Kissela Brett M. , Knutson Kristen L. , Kwan Tak W. , Lackland Daniel T. , Lewis Tené T. , Lichtman Judith H. , Longenecker Chris T. , Loop Matthew Shane , Lutsey Pamela L. , Martin Seth S. , Matsushita Kunihiro , Moran Andrew E. , Mussolino Michael E. , Perak Amanda Marma , Rosamond Wayne D. , Roth Gregory A. , Sampson Uchechukwu K.A. , Satou Gary M. , Schroeder Emily B. , Shah Svati H. , Shay Christina M. , Spartano Nicole L. , Stokes Andrew , Tirschwell David L. , VanWagner Lisa B. , Tsao Connie W. ,   On behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Epidemiology and Prevention Statistics Committee and Stroke Statistics Subcommittee
Published: January 2020

Background:

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports on the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

Methods:

The American Heart Association, through its Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update. The 2020 Statistical Update is the product of a full year’s worth of effort by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. This year’s edition includes data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, metrics to assess and monitor healthy diets, an enhanced focus on social determinants of health, a focus on the global burden of cardiovascular disease, and further evidence-based approaches to changing behaviors, implementation strategies, and implications of the American Heart Association’s 2020 Impact Goals.

Results:

Each of the 26 chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

Conclusions:

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policy makers, media professionals, clinicians, healthcare administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.
Novel Findings From a Metabolomics Study of Left Ventricular Diastolic Function: The Bogalusa Heart Study
Authors: Razavi Alexander C. , Bazzano Lydia A. , He Jiang , Fernandez Camilo , Whelton Seamus P. , Krousel‐Wood Marie , Li Shengxu , Nierenberg Jovia L. , Shi Mengyao , Li Changwei , Mi Xuenan , Kinchen Jason , Kelly Tanika N.
Published: January 2020

Background

Diastolic dysfunction is one important causal factor for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, yet the metabolic signature associated with this subclinical phenotype remains unknown.

Methods and Results

Ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectroscopy was used to conduct untargeted metabolomic analysis of fasting serum samples in 1050 white and black participants of the BHS (Bogalusa Heart Study). After quality control, 1202 metabolites were individually tested for association with 5 echocardiographic measures of left ventricular diastolic function using multivariable‐adjusted linear regression. Measures of left ventricular diastolic function included the ratio of peak early filling velocity to peak late filling velocity, ratio of peak early filling velocity to mitral annular velocity, deceleration time, isovolumic relaxation time, and left atrial maximum volume index (
LAVI
). Analyses adjusted for multiple cardiovascular disease risk factors and used Bonferroni‐corrected alpha thresholds. Eight metabolites robustly associated with left ventricular diastolic function in the overall population and demonstrated consistent associations in white and black study participants. N‐formylmethionine (B=0.05;
P
=1.50×10
−7
); 1‐methylhistidine (B=0.05;
P
=1.60×10
−7
); formiminoglutamate (B=0.07;
P
=5.60×10
−7
); N2, N5‐diacetylornithine (B=0.05;
P
=1.30×10
−7
); N‐trimethyl 5‐aminovalerate (B=0.04;
P
=5.10×10
−6
); 5‐methylthioadenosine (B=0.04;
P
=1.40×10
−5
); and methionine sulfoxide (B=0.04;
P
=3.80×10
−6
) were significantly associated with the natural log of the ratio of peak early filling velocity to mitral annular velocity. Butyrylcarnitine (B=3.18;
P
=2.10×10
−6
) was significantly associated with isovolumic relaxation time.

Conclusions

The current study identified novel findings of metabolite associations with left ventricular diastolic function, suggesting that the serum metabolome, and its underlying biological pathways, may be implicated in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction pathogenesis.
Endovascular Stroke Treatment and Risk of Intracranial Hemorrhage in Anticoagulated Patients
Authors: Meinel Thomas R. , Kniepert Joachim U. , Seiffge David J. , Gralla Jan , Jung Simon , Auer Elias , Frey Sebastién , Goeldlin Martina , Mordasini Pasquale , Mosimann Pascal J. , Nogueira Raul G. , Haussen Diogo C. , Rodrigues Gabriel M. , Uphaus Timo , L’Allinec Vincent , Krajíčková Dagmar , Alonso Angelika , Costalat Vincent , Hajdu Steven D. , Olivé-Gadea Marta , Maegerlein Christian , Pierot Laurent , Schaafsma Joanna , Suzuki Kentaro , Arnold Marcel , Heldner Mirjam R. , Fischer Urs , Kaesmacher Johannes
Published: January 2020

Background and Purpose—

We aimed to determine the safety and mortality after mechanical thrombectomy in patients taking vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs).

Methods—

In a multicenter observational cohort study, we used multiple logistic regression analysis to evaluate associations of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) with VKA or DOAC prescription before thrombectomy as compared with no anticoagulation. The primary outcomes were the rate of sICH and all-cause mortality at 90 days, incorporating sensitivity analysis regarding confirmed therapeutic anticoagulation. Additionally, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of literature on this topic.

Results—

Altogether, 1932 patients were included (VKA, n=222; DOAC, n=98; no anticoagulation, n=1612); median age, 74 years (interquartile range, 62–82); 49.6% women. VKA prescription was associated with increased odds for sICH and mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.55 [95% CI, 1.35–4.84] and 1.64 [95% CI, 1.09–2.47]) as compared with the control group, whereas no association with DOAC intake was observed (aOR, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.29–3.35] and 1.35 [95% CI, 0.72–2.53]). Sensitivity analyses considering only patients within the confirmed therapeutic anticoagulation range did not alter the findings. A study-level meta-analysis incorporating data from 7462 patients (855 VKAs, 318 DOACs, and 6289 controls) from 15 observational cohorts corroborated these observations, yielding an increased rate of sICH in VKA patients (aOR, 1.62 [95% CI, 1.22–2.17]) but not in DOAC patients (aOR, 1.03 [95% CI, 0.60–1.80]).

Conclusions—

Patients taking VKA have an increased risk of sICH and mortality after mechanical thrombectomy. The lower risk of sICH associated with DOAC may also be noticeable in the acute setting. Improved selection might be advisable in VKA-treated patients.

Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT03496064. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: CRD42019127464.
Ceiling Effects on Weight in Heavy NP Shift
Authors: Medeiros David J. , Mains Paul , McGowan Kevin B.
Published: January 2020

This squib tests theories of heavy NP shift that link constituent order to parsing. Our results indicate that increasing the weight of an object NP cannot make a heavy NP shift construction more acceptable than a comparison sentence in the canonical order, contra parsing-based theories. In addition, we examine acceptability as it relates to verb disposition. We find no significant differences between different subcategorizations, contrary to the findings of corpus studies. These results reveal a disconnect between production and comprehension; we further conclude that parser sensitivity to constituent structure is unlikely to affect speaker production of heavy NP shift.
John of Scythopolis on Divine Darkness
Authors: Treiger Alexander
Published: January 2020

The present article provides a commentary on the sixth-century Christian bishop John of Scythopolis’ scholion on Dionysius the Areopagite’s Mystical Theology I.3. In this scholion, John discusses the various Greek translations of Ex. 20:18/21. He also refers to a Jewish cosmological tradition about the seven heavens. Various rabbinic parallels to John of Scythopolis are discussed. The article argues that John most likely has recourse to an oral Jewish tradition, transmitted to him by a Jewish informant in Scythopolis. John of Scythopolis’ scholion thus provides important evidence on Christian-Jewish contacts in Byzantine Palestine.
Filling in for Governments? The Role of the Private Actors in the International Climate Regime
Authors: Streck Charlotte
Published: January 2020

The 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change abandons the Kyoto Protocol’s paradigm of binding emissions targets and relies instead on countries’ voluntary contributions. However, the Paris Agreement encourages not only governments but also sub-national governments, corporations and civil society to contribute to reaching ambitious climate goals. In a transition from the regulated architecture of the Kyoto Protocol to the open system of the Paris Agreement, the Agreement seeks to integrate non-state actors into the treaty-based climate regime. In 2014 the secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Peru and France created the Non-State Actor Zone for Climate Action (and launched the Global Climate Action portal). In December 2019, this portal recorded more than twenty thousand climate-commitments of private and public non-state entities, making the non-state venues of international climate meetings decisively more exciting than the formal negotiation space. This level engagement and governments’ response to it raises a flurry of questions in relation to the evolving nature of the climate regime and climate change governance, including the role of private actors as standard setters and the lack of accountability mechanisms for non-state actions. This paper takes these developments as occasion to discuss the changing role of private actors in the climate regime.
The Fate of EU Environmental and Investment Law after the Achmea Decision
Authors: Fermeglia Matteo , Mistura Alessandra
Published: January 2020

In the landmark Slowakische Republik v. Achmea
BV judgment, the ecj arguably took a resolute stance against the compatibility of International Investment Agreements between EU Member States and the inherent functioning of EU’s legal order. However, the issue as to whether the foreign investment protection regime is at odds with the sound application of EU law is far from being settled. Furthermore, the international investment protection regime as interpreted by investment tribunals may hamper EU Member States’ regulatory space, especially in the implementation of ambitious environmental and climate policies. The recent surge of litigation before international investment tribunals triggered by retrospective changes to supporting schemes for renewable energy sources and the phase-out of nuclear power plants in some European Member States is a telling example. The purpose of this article thus is to analyse the avenues currently available to ensure consistency between EU’s environmental and climate policies as implemented by EU Member States and the investment protection regime as applied by investment tribunals in the wake of the Achmea decision, with a view to devising a benchmark to prevent and avoid, rather than foster, policy conflicts.
The Last Say? Comment on cjeus Judgement in the Tapiola Case (C-674/17)
Authors: Darpö Jan
Published: January 2020

This article is a comment to the judgement from October last year by the European Court of Justice’s in the Tapiola case (C-674/17). It can be seen as a follow-up to what I wrote about the Advocate General Henrik Øe’s opinion in the case, which was published in last issue of this journal (J. Darpö, Anything goes,
jeepl
2019(3) 305–318). The case concerns a request for a preliminary ruling from the Finnish Supreme Administrative Court about the possibilities open under Article 16(1)(e) of the Habitats Directive (92/43) to perform license hunts on a strictly protected species listed under Annex iv to that Directive, namely the wolf (Canis lupus). This comment first describes the main points in the findings of the cjeu. Thereafter, a discussion follows focusing on three issues. The first concerns the relationship between Article 16(1)(e) of the Habitats Directive and the other derogation grounds in that provision from the strict protection of species. The next issue deals with the relationship between Annex iv and Annex V species, an issue linked to the assessment of the conservation status. The final question relates to how this conservation status is decided concerning species which roam over vast territories, not bothering about administrative restrictions such as national boarders or international obligations. At the end, I will make some concluding remarks about the wider implications of the judgement for the species protection under the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive (2009/147).
Lectotype designations taxonomic notes and new synonymies in some species of the bee genus Centris Fabricius, 1804 described by Frederick Smith (Hymenoptera: Apidae)
Authors: VIVALLO FELIPE
Published: January 2020

In this paper the primary types of Centris bees described by the British entomologist Frederick Smith deposited in the Natural History Museum, London and in the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Oxford, United Kingdom were studied. To stabilize the application of some names, lectotypes were designated for C. agilis, C. apiformis (= C. aenea Lepeletier), C. ardens (= C. varia (Erichson)), C. aterrima, C. cineraria, C. concinna (= C. dentata), C. crassipes, C. dentata, C. difformis, C. discolor, C. elegans, C. ephippium, C. festiva, C. ignita (= C. agilis), C. insignis, C. insularis, C. maculifrons, C. melanochlaena, C. mexicana, C. modesta, C. nitida, C. perforator, C. personata (= C. longimana Fabricius), C. plumipes, C. rubella (= C. ferruginea Lepeletier), C. semicaerulea, C. simillima, C. tarsata, C. thoracica (= C. domingensis Dalla Torre) and Anthophora dimidiata (= C. nigerrima (Spinola)). Centris perforator nom. rev. and C. modesta nom. rev. are withdrawn from the synonymy of C. fuscata Lepeletier and C. obsoleta Lepeletier respectively, and consequently revalidated. Centris fulviventris Cresson and C. simillima are removed from the synonymy of C. lanipes (Fabricius), proposing the revalidation of the first species and the second one as its new junior synonym. Centris insignis and C. insignis scutellaris Friese are proposed as new junior synonyms of C. laticincta (Spinola). The critical study of the primary type of C. aterrima, for a long time a misidentified species, allowed for proposing C. anomala Snelling as its new junior synonym. As result of this synonymy, C. apache new species is here described based on specimens incorrectly considered as belonging to C. aterrima. In addition, a lectotype for Centris clypeata Friese (= C. nigrocaerulea Smith) is also designated.