bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanosecond level passively Q-switched Nd:YAG and Nd:YVO4 laser using black phosphorus as a saturable absorber
Authors: Sun Zhe , Li Guangying , Cheng Guanghua , Wang Yonggang
Published: April 2019

Black phosphorus (BP) saturable absorber (SA) solution is fabricated by liquid-phase exfoliation method. By using the BP-SA solution, a compact diode-pumped passively [Formula: see text]-switched Nd:YAG and [Formula: see text] laser has been demonstrated. 100 Hz and 1 kHz repetition rate pulse lasers are achieved, respectively. The minimum pulse duration is 3.56 ns. In the [Formula: see text]-switched [Formula: see text] laser with wideband absorbers, the lowest repetition rate and the shortest pulse duration are obtained for the first time to the best of our knowledge. The maximum single pulse energy is as much as 0.1 mJ. Our results show that BP-SA solution can be developed as an effective SA to achieve nanosecond pulse laser.
A New Method for Railway Fastener Detection Using the Symmetrical Image and Its EA-HOG Feature
Authors: Liu Jiajia , Yuan Jianying , Jia Yongfang
Published: April 2019

Railway fastener recognition and detection is an important task for railway operation safety. However, the current automatic inspection methods based on computer vision can effectively detect the intact or completely missing fasteners, but they have weaker ability to recognize the partially worn ones. In our method, we exploit the EA-HOG feature fastener image, generate two symmetrical images of original test image and turn the detection of the original test image into the detection of two symmetrical images, then integrate the two recognition results of symmetrical image to reach exact recognition of original test image. The potential advantages of the proposed method are as follows: First, we propose a simple yet efficient method to extract the fastener edge, as well as the EA-HOG feature of the fastener image. Second, the symmetry images indeed reflect some possible appearance of the fastener image which are not shown in the original images, these changes are helpful for us to judge the status of the symmetry samples based on the improved sparse representation algorithm and then obtain an exact judgment of the original test image by combining the two corresponding judgments of its symmetry images. The experiment results show that the proposed approach achieves a rather high recognition result and meets the demand of railway fastener detection.
Simple Double-Scroll Chaotic Circuit Based on Meminductor
Authors: Zhai D. D. , Wang F. Q.
Published: April 2019

Meminductor has attracted more and more attention as the new memory element. In this paper, a new generic meminductor model is proposed and analyzed. Its emulator is designed and its pinched hysteresis loop is presented. Based on the established meminductor and using a traditional capacitor and resistor, a new simple chaotic circuit presenting double-scroll chaotic attractors is proposed and its dynamical behaviors including phase portrait, Lyapunov exponents, Poincare mapping, power spectrum, bifurcation and the sensibility of initial value are analyzed. Meanwhile, it has been found that hidden attractors and transient chaotic phenomena under different initial value. Finally, the hardware circuit for the proposed simple double-scroll chaotic system is constructed and some experimental results are presented for validating the correctness of the theoretical analysis.
New Voltage-Mode Sinusoidal Oscillators Using VDIBAs
Authors: Wang San-Fu , Chen Hua-Pin
Published: April 2019

This paper presents two new voltage-mode sinusoidal oscillators based on voltage differencing inverting buffered amplifier (VDIBA). The first proposed circuit exhibits independent and electronic control of oscillation condition by using the bias current of the VDIBA. The proposed configuration contains only single VDIBA, two grounded capacitors and two resistors, which are the least number of active components and the minimum number of passive components necessary for realizing voltage-mode oscillator topology. The second proposed circuit exhibits independent and electronic control on the condition of oscillation without affecting the oscillation frequency by adjusting the separate bias currents of the VDIBAs. The proposed configuration contains two VDIBAs, two grounded capacitors and one resistor, which can provide four quadrature voltage outputs simultaneously. Both proposed circuits enjoy only two grounded capacitors, which are suitable for monolithic integration. HSpice simulations and experimental results are included to confirm the theoretical analysis.
A Route to Chaos in the Boros–Moll Map
Authors: Gardini Laura , Mañosa Víctor , Sushko Iryna
Published: April 2019

The Boros–Moll map appears as a subsystem of a Landen transformation associated to certain rational integrals and its dynamics is related to their convergence. In the paper, we study the dynamics of a one-parameter family of maps which unfold the Boros–Moll one, showing that the existence of an unbounded invariant chaotic region in the Boros–Moll map is a peculiar feature within the family. We relate this singularity with a specific property of the critical lines that occurs only for this special case. In particular, we explain how the unbounded chaotic region in the Boros–Moll map appears. We especially explain the main contact/homoclinic bifurcations that occur in the family. We also report some other bifurcation phenomena that appear in the considered unfolding.
Dynamical Effects of Neuron Activation Gradient on Hopfield Neural Network: Numerical Analyses and Hardware Experiments
Authors: Bao Bocheng , Chen Chengjie , Bao Han , Zhang Xi , Xu Quan , Chen Mo
Published: April 2019

Hyperbolic tangent function, a bounded monotone differentiable function, is usually taken as a neuron activation function, whose activation gradient, i.e. gain scaling parameter, can reflect the response speed in the neuronal electrical activities. However, the previously published literatures have not yet paid attention to the dynamical effects of the neuron activation gradient on Hopfield neural network (HNN). Taking the neuron activation gradient as an adjustable control parameter, dynamical behaviors with the variation of the control parameter are investigated through stability analyses of the equilibrium states, numerical analyses of the mathematical model, and experimental measurements on a hardware level. The results demonstrate that complex dynamical behaviors associated with the neuron activation gradient emerge in the HNN model, including coexisting limit cycle oscillations, coexisting chaotic spiral attractors, chaotic double scrolls, forward and reverse period-doubling cascades, and crisis scenarios, which are effectively confirmed by neuron activation gradient-dependent local attraction basins and parameter-space plots as well. Additionally, the experimentally measured results have nice consistency to numerical simulations.
Characteristic Parameters and Evolution of the Running-in Attractor
Authors: Ding Cong , Zhu Hua , Sun Guodong , Jiang Yu , Wei Chunling
Published: April 2019

The running-in attractor is a chaotic attractor with stability, which forms in the running-in process. Its “formation-stabilization-disappearance” stage can reflect the dynamic features of the nonlinear friction system. To reveal the dynamic features and evolution of the running-in attractor, in this work, wear experiments are implemented on a ring-on-disk tribometer. The friction coefficient signals are then extracted and reconstructed. Based on the reconstructed matrix of the friction coefficient signals, the convergence (CON) and standard deviation of the distance matrix (STD) are proposed. Results show that CON evolves from an increase to the stabilization and then to a decrease. STD presents an inverse variation tendency, evolving from a decrease to the stabilization and then to an increase. A larger CON indicates higher convergence and a more complex friction system. A smaller STD indicates a more stable friction system. These two new characteristic parameters effectively exhibit the dynamic behavior of the wear process.
Smooth Exact Traveling Wave Solutions Determined by Singular Nonlinear Traveling Wave Systems: Two Models
Authors: Li Jibin , Chen Guanrong , Deng Shengfu
Published: April 2019

For a singular nonlinear traveling wave system of the first class, if there exist two node points of the associated regular system in the singular straight line, then the dynamics of the solutions of the singular system will be very complex. In this paper, two representative nonlinear traveling wave system models (namely, the traveling wave system of Green–Naghdi equations and the traveling wave system of the Raman soliton model for optical metamaterials) are investigated. It is shown that, if there exist two node points of the associated regular system in the singular straight line, then the singular system has no peakon, periodic peakon and compacton solutions, but rather, it has smooth periodic wave, solitary wave and kink wave solutions.
Chaotic Properties of Single Element Nonlinear Chimney Model: Effect of Directionality
Authors: Kashyap Anisha R. V. , Kolwankar Kiran M.
Published: April 2019

We generalize the chimney model by introducing nonlinear restoring and gravitational forces for the purpose of modeling swaying of trees at high wind speeds. We have derived the general equations governing the system using Lagrangian formulation. We studied the simplest case of a single element in more detail. The governing equation we arrive at for this case has not been studied so far. We study the chaotic properties of this simple building block and also the effect of directionality in the wind on the chaotic properties. We also consider the special case of two elements.
Chaotifying One-Dimensional Discrete Mappings Using S-Unimodality and Collet–Eckmann Condition
Authors: Elhadj Zeraoulia
Published: April 2019

We present in this paper, two new chaotification methods: The first is about chaotifying one-dimensional discrete mappings using the notion of [Formula: see text]-unimodality and the second one is about chaotifying one-dimensional discrete mappings using Collet–Eckmann condition. These two methods are valid only for one-dimensional discrete mappings.
Monitoring Index of Transverse Collaborative Working Performance of Assembled Beam Bridges Based on Transverse Modal Shape
Authors: Dan Danhui , Xu Zhaoyuan , Zhang Kailong , Yan Xingfei
Published: April 2019

Transverse collaborative working performance (TCWP) is of great importantce to assembled beam bridges’ safety and serviceability, which can be charaterzied by the ability of transvese connections (hinge joints) to transfer force. This paper proposes a multi-beam model connected by distributed springs for assembled beam bridges’ modal characteristic analysis. Both the strain and displacement modal shape (surface) of this multi-beam model can be expressed as a product of longitudinal base function and transverse proportional coefficient vector, which can be obtained explicitly by solving a matrix eigenvalue problem. The transverse proportional coefficient vectors in the solutions can be seen as transverse modal shapes in a cross-section. Then, two types of monitoring indexes (baseline-free and baseline-required) based on transverse modal shapes for hinge joint damage detection and TCWP monitoring are constructed. The applicability of indexes proposed is proved by numerical simulations in different damage cases and index analysis in consideration of modal noise or not.
Feature selection for cross-scene hyperspectral image classification using cross-domain ReliefF
Authors: Ye Minchao , Xu Yongqiu , Ji Chenxi , Chen Hong , Lu Huijuan , Qian Yuntao
Published: April 2019

Hyperspectral images (HSIs) have hundreds of narrow and adjacent spectral bands, which will result in feature redundancy, decreasing the classification accuracy. Feature (band) selection helps to remove the noisy or redundant features. Most traditional feature selection algorithms can be only performed on a single HSI scene. However, appearance of massive HSIs has placed a need for joint feature selection across different HSI scenes. Cross-scene feature selection is not a simple problem, since spectral shift exists between different HSI scenes, even though the scenes are captured by the same sensor. The spectral shift makes traditional single-dataset-based feature selection algorithms no longer applicable. To solve this problem, we extend the traditional ReliefF to a cross-domain version, namely, cross-domain ReliefF (CDRF). The proposed method can make full use of both source and target domains and increase the similarity of samples belonging to the same class in both domains. In the cross-scene classification problem, it is necessary to consider the class-separability of spectral features and the consistency of features between different scenes. The CDRF takes into account these two factors using a cross-domain updating rule of the feature weights. Experimental results on two cross-scene HSI datasets show the superiority of the proposed CDRF in cross-scene feature selection problems.
Robust Loop Closure Detection Using Bayes Filters and CNN Features
Authors: Liu Qiang , Duan Fuhai
Published: April 2019

This paper focuses on loop-closure detection (LCD) for a visual simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) system. We present a strategy that combines a Bayes filter and features from a pre-trained convolution neural network (CNN) to perform LCD. Rather than using features from only one layer, we fuse features from multiple layers based on spatial pyramid pooling. A flexible Bayes model is then formulated to integrate the sequential information and similarities that are computed by features at different scales. The introduction of a penalty factor and bidirectional propagation enables our approach to handle complex trajectories. We present extensive experiments on challenging datasets, and we compare our approach to state-of-the-art methods, to evaluate it. The results show that our approach can ensure remarkable performance under severe condition changes and handle trajectories that have different characteristics. We also show the advantages of Bayes filters over sequence matching in the experiments, and we analyze our feature fusion strategy by visualizing the activations of the CNN.
Numerical Modeling of Cob’s Nonlinear Monotonic Structural Behavior
Authors: Jiménez Rios Alejandro , O’Dwyer Dermot
Published: April 2019

It has been observed by performing simple and diagonal compression tests of cob wallettes that the structural behavior of cob is highly nonlinear. This paper presents the results obtained of the simulation of cob’s nonlinear monotonic behavior using two well-known finite element commercial packages. Pros and cons of different available constitutive material models are identified and discussed. Concrete (CONCR) and Concrete Damaged Plasticity (CDP) are considered as the constitutive material models that provide the more satisfactory results reproducing cob’s nonlinear monotonic behavior when using ANSYS and ABAQUS, respectively.
Numerical Studies of Shape Recovery of a Red Blood Cell Using Dissipative Particle Dynamics
Authors: Tan Sisi , Xu Mingze
Published: April 2019

A biological cell exhibits viscoelastic behavior mainly because its components (membrane and cytoplasm) are viscoelastic, and this is clearly seen when it is stretched and released. The present work numerically studied the shape recovery of a red blood cell (RBC) based on a viscoelastic model at the meso-scale using Dissipative Particle Dynamics (DPD) method. In this model, the RBC membrane is represented by a triangular network of worm-like chains, while the cytoplasm is replaced by a system of DPD particles. This viscoelastic model is validated by examining the stretching deformation of an RBC and comparing with the existing experimental data. Viscoelastic properties of the RBC are then analyzed by stretching an RBC under a 20 pN stretching force, and allowing it to relax. The time to recover its shape upon removal of the stretching force is measured to be 111 and 92.6[Formula: see text]ms for an RBC with and without cytoplasm, and the corresponding membrane viscosity is [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text], respectively. These values, for an RBC with cytoplasm, are closer to experimental data than those for an RBC without cytoplasm, lending support to the model with cytoplasm. Finally, parametric studies are conducted on the membrane elastic and bending moduli. The results show that the shape recovery time decreases with increasing the membrane elastic and bending moduli.
Research on Application of Electric Vehicle Collision Based on Reliability Optimization Design Method
Authors: Wu Hequan , Kuang Shijie , Hou Haibin
Published: April 2019

When mentioning multidisciplinary design optimization methods, the deterministic optimum design is frequently applied to set the constraint boundary. Furthermore, only a small amount of space tolerances (or uncertainty) is available in the process of design, manufacture and operation. Therefore, deterministic optimum design lacking uncertainty cannot meet the needs of reliability-based design optimization. In this paper, reliability optimization design method, finite element (FE) analysis, optimal Latin hypercube test design and response surface approximation model are combined to optimize the side structure of electric vehicles and improve its crashworthiness. Firstly, a side impact FE model of the electric vehicle is established and verified in this paper. Then, the dimensions and the material yield strength of the force-bearing structure in the vehicle are selected as design variables, and the impact speed in the actual collision is selected as a random variable to optimize the car crashworthiness in the side impact using the 95% reliability optimization method. The results show that the 95% reliability optimization design increases the total energy absorption of the side components by 9.45%, the intrusion of the B-pillar and the vehicle door inner panel decreased by 10.42% and 14.75%, respectively. The intrusion speed of the B-pillar and the inner panel of the vehicle door decreases by 10.35% and 17.78%, respectively. By comparing the results of traditional deterministic optimization and reliability optimization methods, the latter can better satisfy the crash safety objectives, and improve the reliability of vehicle body design.
An Adaptive Parallel PI-Skyline Query for Probabilistic and Incomplete Database
Authors: Liu Zezheng , Zeng Yifu , He Siyuan , Zhou Yantao
Published: April 2019

In the context of large quantities of information, the skyline query is a particularly useful tool for data mining and decision-making. However, the massive amounts of information on the Internet are frequently incomplete and uncertain due to data randomness, transmission errors, and many other reasons. Therefore, an efficient skyline query algorithm over an incomplete uncertain database is imperative. To address this issue, this paper proposes an efficient algorithm to apply skyline query on probabilistic incomplete data. The algorithm is based on U-Skyline model to avoid disadvantages of traditional P-Skyline model. The proposed methods introduce some novel concepts including transferred tuples, leading tuples and the new dominance relationship between probabilistic incomplete data. Besides, it is a parallel processing algorithm. Extensive experiments demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithms.
Quasi-Lie schemes for PDEs
Authors: Cariñena J. F. , Grabowski J. , de Lucas J.
Published: April 2019

The theory of quasi-Lie systems, i.e. systems of first-order ordinary differential equations that can be related via a generalized flow to Lie systems, is extended to systems of partial differential equations (PDEs) and its applications to obtain [Formula: see text]-dependent superposition rules, and integrability conditions are analyzed. We develop a procedure of constructing quasi-Lie systems through a generalization to PDEs of the so-called theory of quasi-Lie schemes. Our techniques are illustrated with the analysis of Wess–Zumino–Novikov–Witten models, generalized Abel differential equations, Bäcklund transformations, as well as other differential equations of physical and mathematical relevance.
Some remarks on invariant Poisson quasi-Nijenhuis structures on Lie groups
Authors: Haghighatdoost Ghorbanali , Ravanpak Zohreh , Rezaei-Aghdam Adel
Published: April 2019

We study right-invariant (respectively, left-invariant) Poisson quasi-Nijenhuis structures on a Lie group [Formula: see text] and introduce their infinitesimal counterpart, the so-called r-qn structures on the corresponding Lie algebra [Formula: see text]. We investigate the procedure of the classification of such structures on the Lie algebras and then for clarity of our results we classify, up to a natural equivalence, all [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text] structures on two types of four-dimensional real Lie algebras. We mention some remarks on the relation between [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text] structures and the generalized complex structures on the Lie algebras [Formula: see text] and also the solutions of modified Yang–Baxter equation (MYBE) on the double of Lie bialgebra [Formula: see text]. The results are applied to some relevant examples.
Three-Dimensional Dynamics Analysis of Rotating Functionally Gradient Beams Based on Timoshenko Beam Theory
Authors: Zhou Ding , Fang Jianshi , Wang Hongwei , Zhang Xiaopeng
Published: April 2019

Through the Timoshenko beam theory (TBT), the 3D dynamics of a rotary functional gradient (FG) cantilever beam are investigated. Material capabilities alter continuously throughout the thickness obeying the power law. It is assumed that the Poisson’s ratio does not change. Based on the von Kármán nonlinearity, the governing equation is determined through the Hamilton principle, which includes the Coriolis effects. The couplings among the axial, flapwise and chordwise deformations caused by the usage of the functionally graded materials (FGMs) are revealed. Chebyshev polynomials are utilized to construct trial functions of deformations in the Rayleigh–Ritz method. The centrifugal strengthening effect caused by the rotational motion is described through the nonlinear axial shortening deformations derived from transverse deformations. The influences of the dimensionless angular velocity, FG index and slenderness ratio on vibration characteristics are studied. It is proved that the FG index significantly affects the dynamic response of deformation. For high-frequency external excitation cases, selection of Chebyshev polynomials as trial functions is more stable and effective than other polynomials.
Recovery of Bisphenol A by pH-Triggered Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Jia Yongsheng , Li Enze , Du Zhiping , Li Jianfeng , Cheng Fangqin
Published: April 2019

Bisphenol A is not only one of the frequent contaminants of industrial wastewater, but also one of the main ingredients in polycarbonate and epoxy resins. This study synthesizes a pH-triggered Fe3O4@mSiO2@DPDES adsorbent for recycling Bisphenol A through adsorption–desorption process. Due to the strong [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] interaction between the phenyl groups in diphenyldiethoxysilane modified magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and Bisphenol A, absorbance reached 120.17[Formula: see text]mg/g at pH 7, allowing the bisphenol A adsorbed to Fe3O4@mSiO2@DPDES to be trivially separated from aqueous solutions with a magnet. Desorption of the adsorbed bisphenol A in aqueous solution occurred at pH 2, allowing an impressive 95% recovery rate. The durability of the Fe3O4@mSiO2@DPDES adsorbent was tested by repeated separation of bisphenol A from an aqueous solution, with the recovery efficiency remaining greater than 85% after five cycles.
Seismic Fragility Analysis of Base-Isolated LNG Storage Tank for Selecting Optimum Friction Material of Friction Pendulum System
Authors: Kim Ji-Su , Jung Jung Pyo , Moon Ji-Hoon , Lee Tae-Hyung , Kim Jong Hak , Han Tong-Seok
Published: April 2019

The objective of this study is to establish a system for selecting the optimum friction material to meet the seismic performance requirements of a liquefied natural gas tank with a friction pendulum system (FPS). A methodology for determining the optimum frictional material using seismic fragility analysis is suggested, and it is applied to materials with various frictional coefficients for FPS. Seismic fragility curves with two different limit states are developed to determine the optimum friction material, and a methodology for combining fragility curves is proposed. The analysis shows that a lower friction coefficient for FPSs is more appropriate for preventing failure in FPSs and the superstructure investigated in this study.
Maximum likelihood estimation of nonlinear mixed-effects models with crossed random effects by combining first-order conditional linearization and sequential quadratic programming
Authors: Fu Liyong , Wang Mingliang , Wang Zuoheng , Song Xinyu , Tang Shouzheng
Published: April 2019

Nonlinear mixed-effects (NLME) models have become popular in various disciplines over the past several decades. However, the existing methods for parameter estimation implemented in standard statistical packages such as SAS and R/S-Plus are generally limited to single- or multi-level NLME models that only allow nested random effects and are unable to cope with crossed random effects within the framework of NLME modeling. In this study, we propose a general formulation of NLME models that can accommodate both nested and crossed random effects, and then develop a computational algorithm for parameter estimation based on normal assumptions. The maximum likelihood estimation is carried out using the first-order conditional expansion (FOCE) for NLME model linearization and sequential quadratic programming (SQP) for computational optimization while ensuring positive-definiteness of the estimated variance-covariance matrices of both random effects and error terms. The FOCE-SQP algorithm is evaluated using the height and diameter data measured on trees from Korean larch (L. olgensis var. Changpaiensis) experimental plots as well as simulation studies. We show that the FOCE-SQP method converges fast with high accuracy. Applications of the general formulation of NLME models are illustrated with an analysis of the Korean larch data.
Quantum Network of Cooperative Unmanned Autonomous Systems
Authors: Khoshnoud Farbod , Esat Ibrahim I. , de Silva Clarence W. , Quadrelli Marco B.
Published: April 2019

A quantum network may be realized by the entanglement of particles communicated by qubits between quantum computers, where the entangled photons of light are transferred for communication purposes. This technology has been proven to be feasible experimentally through free-space distribution of entangled photon pairs. Sending photons of light through nonlinear crystals produces correlated photon pairs, by splitting each photon into two half particles with each particle having the same level of energy, which results in entangled pairs. This entanglement is represented by photons, having both either horizontal or vertical polarization. This paper investigates collaborative robotic tasks of unmanned systems in a network where the agents are entangled. For instance, a leader robot sends two identical photons (e.g. with vertical polarization) to two follower robots/autonomous vehicles to communicate information about various tasks such as swarm, formation, trajectory tracking, path following and collaborative tasks. The potential advantages of quantum cooperation of robotic agents is the speed of the process, the ability to achieve security with immunity against cyberattacks, and fault tolerance, through entanglement. If a Quantum Network is implemented in a robotic application, it would present an effective solution; for example, for a group of unmanned systems working securely together. An analytical basis of such systems is investigated in this paper, and the formulation of quantum cooperation of unmanned systems is presented and discussed. The concept of experimental quantum entanglement, as well as quantum cryptography (QC), for robotics applications is presented.
Lay Knowledge of Ecosystem Services in Rural Eastern Cape Province, South Africa: Implications for Intervention Program Planning
Authors: Murata Chenai , Mantel Sukhmani , de Wet Chris , Palmer Anthony R
Published: April 2019

The ecosystem service concept is a new scientific construct that was coined to lay bare the contribution that nature makes to human well-being. Besides playing an epistemic role (expanding ecological knowledge), the concept is pedagogical in that it seeks to emphasize the need to conserve nature among resource managers and resource users. The growth of ecosystem service literature since the 1980s has been moved by a largely scientific debate that seeks to disambiguate ecological functions from services, develop appropriate resource accounting techniques and critique the concept as a neoliberal construct. Conclusions reached in these debates are used to guide intervention programs such as payment for ecosystem services (PES), but knowledge of the rural people on whose landscapes the programs are implemented seldom features in the debates. Local communities rely on lay ecological knowledge to interpret and interact with nature. The question we have in mind is thus: In the context of South Africa’s chequered history of racialized conservation and top-down development intervention programs, what is the likelihood of success of exclusively scientific ecosystem service programs? We pose this question while aware that the relationship between science and other knowledge systems is more complementary than dichotomous. However, some features make the two work differently from each other. We selected two villages of Mgwalana and Mahlungulu in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa to investigate lay knowledge of ecosystem services. We make an argument for implications of these findings on planning of intervention programs. We used a mixed methods approach that involved two rounds of data collection. The first was a quantitative survey with 33 respondents. The second round involved in-depth interviews with 17 respondents. The study found that lay people understand ecosystem services in significantly different ways to scientists. While they easily recognize provisional and cultural, lay people are not familiar with regulatory and supporting ecosystem services and classification of services into groups confuses them. Messages foregrounded in these findings have potential to both expand the ecosystem service knowledge and attract stakeholder cooperation in intervention programs.
#HigherEdScope: A New Frontier in Digital Development
Authors: Ernstberger Jon , Venable Melissa A.
Published: April 2019

#HigherEdScope was a co-hosted Periscope serial about online education that stretched the boundaries of the mobile broadcasting platform, through live sessions co-hosted by the authors. The topics covered were designed to inform online educators and administrators to a range of pedagogy, tools, and strategies. In this article, the authors share their experiences and exploration of live video, including failures and successes, in a professional development context.
Dynamic Analysis of Metabolic Response in Gastric Ulcer (GU) Rats with Electroacupuncture Treatment Using 1H NMR-Based Metabolomics
Authors: Shen Jia-cheng , Lian Lin-yu , Zhang Yuan , He Qi-da , Chen Jiao-long , Zhang Long-bin , Huang Miao-sen , Liu Mi , Qian Lin-chao , Liu Cai-chun , Yang Zong-bao
Published: April 2019

Gastric ulcer (GU), a common digestive disease, has a high incidence and seriously endangers health of human. According to the previous studies, it has been proved that electroacupuncture at acupoints of stomach meridian had a good effect on GU. However, there are few published studies on metabolic response in gastric ulcer (GU) rats with electroacupuncture treatment. Herein, we observed the metabolic profiles in biological samples (stomach, liver, and kidney) of GU rats with electroacupuncture treatment by 1H NMR metabolomics combined with pathological examination. The male SD rats were induced by intragastric administration of 70% ethanol after fasting for 24 hours and treated by electroacupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) and Liangmen (ST21) for 1 day, 4 days, or 7 days, respectively. And the conventional histopathological examinations as well as metabolic pathways assays were also performed. We found that GU rats were basically cured after electroacupuncture treatment for 4 days and had a complete recovery after electroacupuncture treatment for 7 days by being modulated comprehensive metabolic changes, involved in the function of neurotransmitters, energy metabolism, cells metabolism, antioxidation, tissue repairing, and other metabolic pathways. These findings may be helpful to facilitate the mechanism elucidating of electroacupuncture treatment on GU.
α4β7 Integrin Antagonist Vedolizumab for the Treatment of Refractory Ileitis
Authors: Filip Rafał , Goliat Błażej , Dziechciaż Małgorzata , Dąbrowski Piotr , Osuchowski Michał , Paluszkiewicz Piotr
Published: April 2019

Background and Aims. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a superficial diffuse inflammation restricted to the colon and rectum. Inflammation within the small bowel may occur several years after a pancolectomy. The pathogenesis is unknown and seems to be different from Crohn’s disease or other causes of diseases of the small intestine, but an association with colectomy due to UC is very likely. Methods and Results. We describe the case of a patient with a probable diagnosis of pan-UC accompanied by Sjögren’s syndrome and partial IgA deficiency, who developed enteritis after a restorative pancolectomy. For induction and maintenance of remission, the patient was successfully treated with mycofenolate mofetil (MMF) and vedolizumab (VDZ). Conclusions. We suggest that a previously refractory to standard therapy UC-related enteritis can be treated with combination MMF and VDZ.
PDϑ Control Strategy for a Fractional‐Order Chaotic Financial Model
Authors: Xu Changjin , Liao Maoxin , Li Peiluan , Xiao Qimei , Yuan Shuai
Published: April 2019

In this article, based on the previous works, a new fractional‐order financial model is put up. The chaotic behavior of the fractional‐order financial model is suppressed by designing an appropriate PDϑ controller. By choosing the delay as the bifurcation parameter, we establish the sufficient condition to guarantee the stability and the existence of Hopf bifurcation of fractional‐order financial model. Also, the influence of the delay and the fractional order on the stability and the existence of Hopf bifurcation of fractional‐order financial model is revealed. An example is given to confirm the effectiveness of the analysis results. The main findings of this article play an important role in maintaining economic stability.
A Compact Ku-Band Active Electronically Steerable Antenna with Low-Cost 3D T/R Module
Authors: Xu Zheng , Hao Chengxiang , Xu Kuiwen , Chen Shichang
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a novel compact Ku-band active electronically steerable antenna array design with a low-cost and integrated T/R 3D module employed for airborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems. The entire system adopts 3D multilayer technology with vertical interconnection to construct the hermetically packaging RF modules. By assembling different multifunctional modules into a whole multilayer board, the 3D T/R technique greatly improves the system integration and reduces implementation cost and size. Besides, a wideband circular polarized antenna array was designed in LTCC and connected to the proposed T/R modules to form a complete AESA. The whole proposed antenna system has been fabricated and experimentally investigated. Measurement results showed very good phased array performances in terms of gain, axial ratio, and radiating patterns. The low-cost, lightweight, and low-power features exhibited by the proposed design validate its applicability for weight and power constrained platforms with great electronic steering ability.
ROS-Induced GATA4 and GATA6 Downregulation Inhibits StAR Expression in LPS-Treated Porcine Granulosa-Lutein Cells
Authors: Qu Xiaolu , Yan Leyan , Guo Rihong , Li Hui , Shi Zhendan
Published: April 2019

LPS is a major endotoxin produced by gram-negative bacteria, and exposure to it commonly occurs in animal husbandry. Previous studies have shown that LPS infection disturbs steroidogenesis, including progesterone production, and subsequently decreases animal reproductive performance. However, little information about the underlying mechanisms is available thus far. In the present study, an in vitro-luteinized porcine granulosa cell model was used to study the underlying molecular mechanisms of LPS treatment. We found that LPS significantly inhibits progesterone production and downregulates the expressions of progesterone synthesis-associated genes (StAR, CYP11A1, and 3β-HSD). Furthermore, the levels of ROS were significantly increased in an LPS dose-dependent manner. Moreover, transcriptional factors GATA4 and GATA6, but not NR5A1, were significantly downregulated. Elimination of LPS-stimulated ROS by melatonin or vitamin C could restore the expressions of GATA4, GATA6, and StAR. In parallel, StAR expression was also inhibited by the knockdown of GATA4 and GATA6. Based on these data, we conclude that LPS impairs StAR expression via the ROS-induced downregulation of GATA4 and GATA6. Collectively, these findings provide new insights into the understanding of reproductive losses in animals suffering from bacterial infection and LPS exposure.
Streaming Potential Measurements on the Binary Mixture Triethylamine-Water Near the Demixing Phase Transition
Authors: Thanh Luong Duy , Sprik Rudolf
Published: April 2019

Large density fluctuations developing near the phase transition point of the binary mixture affect physical parameters directly related to the electrokinetic coupling coefficient. Here the first electrokinetic measurements for a porous rock sample are carried out with a critical binary mixture of triethylamine-water, especially around the phase transition point. From the measured streaming potential coefficient, the zeta potential is obtained for the critical composition. The results show that there is no anomaly in the streaming potential coefficient as the temperature approaches the demixing temperature. It is also seen that the streaming potential coefficient and the zeta potential in magnitude decreases with increasing temperature. This observation is opposite to what has been observed in literature. It means that the properties of the electric double layer for the mixtures are different from those for aqueous electrolytes. Additionally, the zeta potential for the critical composition is predicted to fluctuate around the critical point.
Trajectory Tracking Control for Small-Scale Unmanned Helicopters with Mismatched Disturbances Based on a Continuous Sliding Mode Approach
Authors: Fang Xing , Shang Yujia
Published: April 2019

A novel continuous sliding mode control (CSMC) strategy based on the finite-time disturbance observer (FTDO) is proposed for the small-scale unmanned helicopters in the presence of both matched and mismatched disturbances. First, a novel sliding surface is designed based on the estimates of the mismatched disturbances and their derivatives obtained by the FTDO. Then, a continuous sliding mode control law is developed, which does not lead to any chattering phenomenon. Furthermore, the closed-loop helicopter system is proved to be asymptotically stable. Finally, the excellent hovering and tracking performance, as well as the powerful disturbance rejection capability of the proposed novel CSMC method, is validated by the simulation results.
The Efficacy and Safety of Transcatheter Arterial Embolization to Treat Renal Hemorrhage after Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
Authors: Du Nan , Ma Jing-Qin , Luo Jian-Jun , Liu Qing-Xin , Zhang Zi-Han , Yang Min-Jie , Yu Tian-Zhu , Tao Yun , Liu Rong , Zhang Wen , Yan Zhi-Ping
Published: April 2019

Purpose. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) in patients with renal hemorrhage after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and evaluate the risk factors that may result in severe bleeding requiring TAE. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 121 patients with post-PCNL renal hemorrhage. Thirty-two patients receiving endovascular embolization were compared with 89 patients only receiving conservative treatment. The demographic and clinical data were recorded and compared between the two groups. The values of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and serum creatinine (SCr) were recorded preoperatively, postoperatively, and at last follow-up and analyzed to evaluate the safety and efficiency of TAE. Results. The successful hemostasis rate of conservative therapy was 73.6% (89/121) and that of TAE was 100% (32/32). SCr and eGFR were not significantly different before PCNL and after the last follow-up of TAE (SCr: 0.95 vs. 0.95 mg/dl, P=0.857; eGFR: 86.77 vs. 86.18 ml/min/1.73m2, P=0.715). The univariate analysis demonstrated that advanced age, urinary tract infection, and diabetes mellitus were significantly associated with severe bleeding during PCNL. Multivariate analysis further identified that diabetes mellitus was an independent risk factor for severe bleeding needing TAE [odds ratio (OR): 3.778, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.276-11.190, and P=0.016]. Conclusion. TAE is a safe and effective procedure to treat renal hemorrhage that cannot be resisted by conservative treatment after PCNL. Diabetes mellitus was associated with high risks of severe bleeding needing TAE after PCNL.
Icariin Inhibits AGE-Induced Injury in PC12 Cells by Directly Targeting Apoptosis Regulator Bax
Authors: Zhao Shao-Yang , Liao Li-Xi , Tu Peng-Fei , Li Wei-Wei , Zeng Ke-Wu
Published: April 2019

Diabetic encephalopathy (DE) is a serious complication caused by long-term cognitive impairment in diabetic patients. At present, there is no effective treatment for DE. Icariin (ICA) is a bioactive ingredient isolated from Epimedium. Previous research indicated that ICA was neuroprotective against Aβ-induced PC12 cell insult; however, the effect of ICA on an advanced glycosylation end product- (AGE-) induced neural injury model has not been studied. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of ICA on AGE-induced injury in PC12 cells. Our findings revealed that ICA could effectively protect PC12 cells from AGE-induced cell apoptosis by suppressing oxidative stress. Moreover, we observed that ICA could significantly protect against mitochondrial depolarization following AGE stimulation and inactivate the mitochondria-dependent caspase-9/3 apoptosis pathway. Most notably, we identified the direct target protein of ICA as apoptosis regulator Bax by a pulldown assay. We found that ICA could specifically target Bax protein and inhibit Bax dimer formation and migration to mitochondria. Furthermore, a siRNA knockdown experiment revealed that ICA could inhibit PC12 cell apoptosis and oxidative stress through targeting Bax. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that ICA could attenuate AGE-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial apoptosis by specifically targeting Bax and further regulating the biological function of Bax on mitochondria.
A Novel Orally Active Inverse Agonist of Estrogen-related Receptor Gamma (ERRγ), DN200434, A Booster of NIS in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Singh Thoudam Debraj , Song Jaeyoung , Kim Jina , Chin Jungwook , Ji Hyun Dong , Lee Jae-Eon , Lee Sang Bong , Yoon Heeseok , Yu Ji Hoon , Kim Sang Kyoon , Yoon Ghil Suk , Hwang Hayoung , Lee Ho Won , Oh Ji Min , Lee Sang-Woo , Lee Jaetae , Choi Hueng-Sik , Na Soon-Young , Choi Won-Il , Park Young Joo , Song Young Shin , Kim Young A. , Lee In-Kyu , Cho Sung Jin , Jeon Yong Hyun
Published: April 2019

Purpose:

New strategies to restore sodium iodide symporter (NIS) expression and function in radioiodine therapy–refractive anaplastic thyroid cancers (ATCs) are urgently required. Recently, we reported the regulatory role of estrogen-related receptor gamma (ERRγ) in ATC cell NIS function. Herein, we identified DN200434 as a highly potent (functional IC50 = 0.006 μmol/L), selective, and orally available ERRγ inverse agonist for NIS enhancement in ATC.

Experimental Design:

We sought to identify better ERRγ-targeting ligands and explored the crystal structure of ERRγ in complex with DN200434. After treating ATC cells with DN200434, the change in iodide-handling gene expression, as well as radioiodine avidity was examined. ATC tumor–bearing mice were orally administered with DN200434, followed by 124I-positron emission tomography/CT (PET/CT). For radioiodine therapy, ATC tumor–bearing mice treated with DN200434 were administered 131I (beta ray–emitting therapeutic radioiodine) and then bioluminescent imaging was performed to monitor the therapeutic effects. Histologic analysis was performed to evaluate ERRγ expression status in normal tissue and ATC tissue, respectively.

Results:

DN200434–ERRγ complex crystallographic studies revealed that DN200434 binds to key ERRγ binding pocket residues through four-way interactions. DN200434 effectively upregulated iodide-handling genes and restored radioiodine avidity in ATC tumor lesions, as confirmed by 124I-PET/CT. DN200434 enhanced ATC tumor radioiodine therapy susceptibility, markedly inhibiting tumor growth. Histologic findings of patients with ATC showed higher ERRγ expression in tumors than in normal tissue, supporting ERRγ as a therapeutic target for ATC.

Conclusions:

DN200434 shows potential clinical applicability for diagnosis and treatment of ATC or other poorly differentiated thyroid cancers.
Single-Cell Lymphocyte Heterogeneity in Advanced Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma Skin Tumors
Authors: Gaydosik Alyxzandria M. , Tabib Tracy , Geskin Larisa J. , Bayan Claire-Audrey , Conway James F. , Lafyatis Robert , Fuschiotti Patrizia
Published: April 2019

Purpose:

The heterogeneity of tumor cells presents a major challenge to cancer diagnosis and therapy. Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL) are a group of T lymphocyte malignancies that primarily affect skin. Lack of highly specific markers for malignant lymphocytes prevents early diagnosis, while only limited treatment options are available for patients with advanced stage CTCL. Droplet-based single-cell transcriptome analysis of CTCL skin biopsies opens avenues for dissecting patient-specific T lymphocyte heterogeneity, providing a basis for identifying specific markers for diagnosis and cure of CTCL.

Experimental Design:

Single-cell RNA-sequencing was performed by Droplet-based sequencing (10X Genomics), focusing on 14,056 CD3+ lymphocytes (448 cells from normal and 13,608 cells from CTCL skin samples) from skin biopsies of 5 patients with advanced-stage CTCL and 4 healthy donors. Protein expression of identified genes was validated in advanced stage CTCL skin tumors by immunohistochemistry and confocal immunofluorescence microscopy.

Results:

Our analysis revealed a large inter- and intratumor gene expression heterogeneity in the T lymphocyte subset, as well as a common gene expression signature in highly proliferating lymphocytes that was validated in multiple advanced-stage skin tumors. In addition, we established the immunologic state of reactive lymphocytes and found heterogeneity in effector and exhaustion programs across patient samples.

Conclusions:

Single-cell analysis of CTCL skin tumor samples reveals patient-specific landscapes of malignant and reactive lymphocytes within the local microenvironment of each tumor, giving an unprecedented view of lymphocyte heterogeneity and identifying tumor-specific molecular signatures, with important implications for diagnosis and personalized disease treatment.