bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application and Need-Based Architecture Design of Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Soniya  , Paul Sandeep , Singh Lotika
Published: January 2020

This paper applies a hybrid evolutionary approach to a convolutional neural network (CNN) and determines the number of layers and filters based on the application and user need. It integrates compact genetic algorithm with stochastic gradient descent (SGD) for simultaneously evolving structure and parameters of the CNN. It defines an effectual string representation for combining structure and parameters of the CNN. The compact genetic algorithm helps in the evolution of network structure by optimizing the number of convolutional layers and number of filters in each convolutional layer. At the same time, an optimal set of weight parameters of the network is obtained using the SGD law. This approach amalgamates exploration in network space by compact genetic algorithm and exploitation in weight space with SGD in an effective manner. The proposed approach also incorporates user-defined parameters in the cost function in an elegant manner which controls the network structure and hence the performance of the network based on the users need. The effectiveness of the proposed approach has been demonstrated on four benchmark datasets, namely MNIST, COIL-100, CIFAR-10 and CIFAR-100. The obtained results clearly demonstrate the potential of the proposed approach by evolving architectures based on the nature of the application and the need of the user.
Time-dependent decay rate and angular distribution of the scission neutrons by a dynamical approach
Authors: Carjan N. , Rizea M.
Published: January 2020

A dynamical model is employed to determine some peculiar properties of the scission neutrons, i.e., those emitted at the rupture of the neck between the fragments during low energy nuclear fission. Thus, by a specially adapted procedure, we calculate the time-dependent decay rate. This, defines the character of the emission process: pulsed or exponentially. From the time dependence of the survival probability, we deduced the “half-life” of the scission neutron emission. The angular distribution of the scission neutrons with respect to the fission axis is calculated as well. This is obtained for sets of neutron wave functions defined by a given quantum number [Formula: see text] (projection of the total angular momentum on the symmetry axis). A strong dependence on [Formula: see text] was found, namely, wave functions with different [Formula: see text] have different most probable emission angles: from emission along the fission axis (1/2) to emission perpendicular to the fission axis (9/2). This result leads to a new interpretation of the measured angular distribution of the prompt fission neutrons. Finally, an extension of the dynamical model (i.e., with a time-dependent potential also after scission) is presented.
CREDIT DEFAULT SWAPS IN TWO-DIMENSIONAL MODELS WITH VARIOUS INFORMATIONS FLOWS
Authors: GAPEEV PAVEL V. , JEANBLANC MONIQUE
Published: January 2020

We study a credit risk model of a financial market in which the dynamics of intensity rates of two default times are described by linear combinations of three independent geometric Brownian motions. The dynamics of two default-free risky asset prices are modeled by two geometric Brownian motions which are dependent of the ones describing the default intensity rates. We obtain closed form expressions for the no-arbitrage prices of both risk-free and risky credit default swaps given the reference filtration initially and progressively enlarged by the two default times. The accessible default-free reference filtration is generated by the standard Brownian motions driving the model.
Effect of Social Media Interactions on CLV in Telecommunications
Authors: Kivrak Oğuzhan , Akar Cüneyt
Published: January 2020

The main goal of this study is to investigate whether social media, as a recent communication channel, has an impact on customer lifetime value (CLV). No studies have been done in Turkey with similar purposes in the telecommunication sector. To reach this goal, there has been an attempt to develop both artificial neural network models and sector-specific applicable models. Four years of data between 2011 and 2014 belonging to customers in the telecommunication sector who have a Twitter account are used in this study. The CLV is modeled through radial basis function (RBF), multilayer perceptron (MLP), and Elman neural network approaches, and the performance of such models is compared. According to the findings, calculated CLV error values are at an acceptable range in all formed models. Additionally, it is determined that the CLV was calculated with a lower error value in models where social media variables were used. The Elman neural network is determined to perform better compared to RBF and MLP.
Observables, interference phenomenon and Born’s rule in the probability representation of quantum mechanics
Authors: Man’ko Margarita A. , Man’ko Vladimir I.
Published: January 2020

The description of quantum states by probability distributions of classical-like random variables associated with observables is presented. An invertible map of the wave functions and density matrices onto the probability distributions is constructed. The relation of the probability distributions to quasidistributions like the Wigner function is discussed. The interference phenomenon and superposition principle of pure quantum states are given in the form of nonlinear addition of the probabilities identified with the quantum states. The probability given by Born’s rule is expressed as a function of the probabilities describing the system states. The suggested probability representation of quantum mechanics is presented using examples of harmonic oscillators and qubits.
A Coupled FE-Meshfree Triangular Element for Acoustic Radiation Problems
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Qifan , Gui Qiang , Chai Yingbin
Published: January 2020

To improve the accuracy of the standard finite element (FE) solutions for acoustic radiation computation, this work presents the coupling of a radial point interpolation method (RPIM) with the standard FEM based on triangular (T3) mesh to give a coupled “FE-Meshfree” Trig3-RPIM element for two-dimensional acoustic radiation problems. In this coupled Trig3-RPIM element, the local approximation (LA) is represented by the polynomial-radial basis functions and the partition of unity (PU) concept is satisfied using the standard FEM shape functions. Incorporating the present coupled Trig3-RPIM element with the appropriate non-reflecting boundary condition, the two-dimensional acoustic radiation problems in exterior unbounded domain can be successfully solved. The numerical results demonstrate that the present coupled Trig3-RPIM have significant superiorities over the standard FEM and can be regarded as a competitive numerical techniques for exterior acoustic computation.
Primary decompositions of unital locally matrix algebras
Authors: Bezushchak Oksana , Oliynyk Bogdana
Published: January 2020

We construct a unital locally matrix algebra of uncountable dimension that

(1) does not admit a primary decomposition,

(2) has an infinite locally finite Steinitz number.

It gives negative answers to questions from [V. M. Kurochkin, On the theory of locally simple and locally normal algebras, Mat. Sb., Nov. Ser. 22(64)(3) (1948) 443–454; O. Bezushchak and B. Oliynyk, Unital locally matrix algebras and Steinitz numbers, J. Algebra Appl. (2020), online ready]. We also show that for an arbitrary infinite Steinitz number [Formula: see text] there exists a unital locally matrix algebra [Formula: see text] having the Steinitz number [Formula: see text] and not isomorphic to a tensor product of finite-dimensional matrix algebras.
Global stability and optimal control of a two-patch tuberculosis epidemic model using fractional-order derivatives
Authors: Kheiri Hossein , Jafari Mohsen
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we propose a fractional-order and two-patch model of tuberculosis (TB) epidemic, in which susceptible, slow latent, fast latent and infectious individuals can travel freely between the patches, but not under treatment infected individuals, due to medical reasons. We obtain the basic reproduction number [Formula: see text] for the model and extend the classical LaSalle’s invariance principle for fractional differential equations. We show that if [Formula: see text], the disease-free equilibrium (DFE) is locally and globally asymptotically stable. If [Formula: see text] we obtain sufficient conditions under which the endemic equilibrium is unique and globally asymptotically stable. We extend the model by inclusion the time-dependent controls (effective treatment controls in both patches and controls of screening on travel of infectious individuals between patches), and formulate a fractional optimal control problem to reduce the spread of the disease. The numerical results show that the use of all controls has the most impact on disease control, and decreases the size of all infected compartments, but increases the size of susceptible compartment in both patches. We, also, investigate the impact of the fractional derivative order [Formula: see text] on the values of the controls ([Formula: see text]). The results show that the maximum levels of effective treatment controls in both patches increase when [Formula: see text] is reduced from 1, while the maximum level of the travel screening control of infectious individuals from patch 2 to patch 1 increases when [Formula: see text] limits to 1.
Persistence and extinction of Markov switched stochastic Nicholson’s blowflies delayed differential equation
Authors: Wang Wentao , Chen Wei
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we study the persistence and extinction of Markov switched stochastic Nicholson’s blowflies delayed differential equation. We derive sufficient conditions of persistence and extinction for blowflies population, respectively, which solve one of open problems proposed by Zhu et al. [Stochastic Nicholson’s blowflies delay differential equation with regime switching, Appl. Math. Lett. 94 (2019) 187–195].
Stability and bifurcation analysis of a fractional-order single-gene regulatory model with delays under a novel PDα control law
Authors: Lu Qiu , Xiao Min , Cheng Zunshui , Song Yurong , Huang Chengdai , Cao Jinde
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we propose a novel fractional-order proportional-derivative (PD) strategy to achieve the control of bifurcation of a fractional-order gene regulatory model with delays. The stability theory of fractional differential equations proved that with delays, some explicit conditions for the local asymptotical stability and Hopf bifurcation are given for the controlled fractional-order genetic model. It is demonstrated that the fractional-order gene regulatory model becomes controllable by adjusting the control gain parameters. In addition, the effect of fractional-order parameter on the dynamical behaviors is shown. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out to testify the validity of the main results and the availability of the fractional-order PD controller.
Sensitivity analysis of chronic hepatitis C virus infection with immune response and cell proliferation
Authors: Nabi Khondoker Nazmoon , Podder Chandra N.
Published: January 2020

A new mathematical model of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection incorporating humoral and cell-mediated immune responses, distinct cell proliferation rates for both uninfected and infected hepatocytes, and antiviral treatment all at once, is formulated and analyzed meticulously. Analysis of the model elucidates the existence of multiple equilibrium states. Moreover, the model has a locally asymptotically stable disease-free equilibrium (DFE) whenever the basic reproduction number is less than unity. Local sensitivity analysis (LSA) result exhibits that the most influential (negatively sensitive) parameters on the epidemic threshold are the drug efficacy of blocking virus production and the drug efficacy of removing infection. However, LSA does not accurately assess uncertainty and sensitivity in the system and may mislead us since by default this technique holds all other parameters fixed at baseline values. To overcome this pitfall, one of the most robust and efficient global sensitivity analysis (GSA) methods, which is Latin hypercube sampling-partial rank correlation coefficient technique, elucidates that the proliferation rate of infected hepatocytes and the drug efficacy of killing infected hepatocytes are highly sensitive parameters that affect the transmission dynamics of HCV in any population. Our study suggests that cell proliferation of the infected hepatocytes can be very crucial in controlling disease outbreak. Thus, a future HCV drug that boosts cell-mediated immune response is expected to be quite effective in controlling disease outbreak.
S-shaped growth curves in fermentations and golden ratio
Authors: Klykov Sergey P.
Published: January 2020

A model of the growth curve of microorganisms was proposed, which reveals a relationship with the number of a ‘golden section’, 1.618[Formula: see text]…, for main parameters of the growth curves. The treatment mainly concerns the ratio of the maximum asymptotic value of biomass in the phase of slow growth to the real value of biomass accumulation at the end of exponential growth, which is equal to the square of the ‘golden section’, i.e., 2.618. There are a few relevant theorems to explain these facts. New, yet simpler, methods were considered for determining the model parameters based on hyperbolic functions. A comparison was made with one of the alternative models to demonstrate the advantage of the proposed model. The proposed model should be useful to apply at various stages of fermentation in scientific and industrial units. Further, the model could give a new impetus to the development of new mathematical knowledge regarding the algebra of the ‘golden section’ as a whole, as well as in connection with the introduction of a new equation at decomposing of any roots with any degrees for differences between constants and/or variables.
A numerical study of the nonlinear fractional mathematical model of tumor cells in presence of chemotherapeutic treatment
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Atangana Abdon
Published: January 2020

Cancer belongs to the class of diseases which is symbolized by out of control cells growth. These cells affect DNAs and damage them. There exist many treatments available in medical science as radiation therapy, targeted therapy, surgery, palliative care and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is one of the most popular treatments which depends on the type, location and grade of cancer. In this paper, we are working on modeling and prediction of the effect of chemotherapy on cancer cells using a fractional differential equation by using the differential operator in Caputo’s sense. The presented model depicts the interaction between tumor, normal and immune cells in a tumor by using a system of four coupled fractional partial differential equations (PDEs). For this system, initial conditions of tumor cells and dimensions are taken in such a way that tumor is spread out enough in size and can be detected easily with the clinical machines. An operational matrix method with Genocchi polynomials is applied to study this system of fractional PDEs (FPDEs). An operational matrix for fractional differentiation is derived. Applying the collocation method and using this matrix, the nonlinear system is reduced to a system of algebraic equations, which can be solved using Newton iteration method. The salient features of this paper are the pictorial presentations of the numerical solution of the concerned equation for different particular cases to show the effect of fractional exponent on diffusive nature of immune cells, tumor cells, normal cells and chemotherapeutic drug and depict the interaction among immune cells, normal cells and tumor cells in a tumor site.
Inverse fixed points of sequences of mappings
Authors: Moorthy C. Ganesa , Raj S. Iruthaya
Published: January 2020

If [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is a sequence of mappings on a metric space [Formula: see text], a point [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] is called an inverse fixed point of the sequence [Formula: see text], if [Formula: see text] tends to zero as [Formula: see text] tends to infinity. This definition is proposed and studied in this paper to obtain a few fixed point results.
The depth of continued fraction expansion for some classes of rational functions
Authors: Tongron Yanapat , Kanasri Narakorn Rompurk , Laohakosol Vichian
Published: January 2020

For nonzero polynomials [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] over a field [Formula: see text], let [Formula: see text] be the depth (length) of the continued fraction expansion for [Formula: see text]. An upper bound on [Formula: see text], for nonzero polynomial [Formula: see text] and rational function [Formula: see text] is obtained. Applying this result, an upper bound on the depth of a linear fractional transformation is also established.
Various stabilities of reciprocal-septic and reciprocal-octic functional equations
Authors: Bodaghi Abasalt , Senthil Kumar Beri Venkatachalapathy , Bagheri Vakilabad Ali
Published: January 2020

The intention of this paper is to prove various stability results of reciprocal-septic and reciprocal-octic functional equations in non-Archimedean fields and nonzero real numbers relevant to Hyers, Rassias, and Găvruţa stability. Appropriate counter-examples are supplied to invalidate the results in the cases of singularities.
Amyloid Precursor Protein Influences Gallbladder Cancer Cell Behaviors and may be an Effective Prognostic Factor
Authors: Wang Liting , Wang Jiwen , Gong Ke , Shen Qing , Fu Hao , Huang Hui , Chen Chuanrong , Zhang Lin , Duan Yourong , Suo Tao
Published: January 2020

Gallbladder cancer is one of the most aggressive carcinomas of digestive system. The conventional surgical resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy limit therapeutic effects on gallbladder cancer, so it is urgent to further explore the mechanism of the development of gallbladder cancer. To solve this problem, we have studied the application value of amyloid precursor protein (APP) in the diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder cancer. Small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) was used to knock down APP in SGC-996 and QBC-939 cells. Then, the effects of APP on SGC-996 and QBC-939 cells proliferation, migration, invasion and cell cycle were evaluated. The results showed that APP was overexpressed in gallbladder cancer tissues and cell lines. The cell proliferation, migration and invasion were effectively inhibited and the cell cycle was influenced to a certain extent after knockdown of APP. And the expression of tumor metastatic associated protein, MMP-2, MMP-9, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, was associated with the level of APP. The present data confirmed that APP played a crucial role in gallbladder cancer cells function. This study strongly suggests that APP is a potential target for gallbladder cancer treatment.
A Uniquely Finned Tube Heat Exchanger Design of a Condenser for Heavy-Duty Air Conditioning Systems
Authors: Abubaker Ahmad M. , Najjar Yousef S. H. , Ahmad Adnan Darwish
Published: January 2020

This study introduces the design of a novel condenser for air conditioning systems. Enhancement of performance of the system was manifested by increasing the coefficient of performance (COP), decreasing the pressure drop and the power consumed by the refrigerant compressor and the cooling water pump. The design consists of an adiabatic double-pipe heat exchanger with longitudinal rectangular fins. This model can enhance heat transfer coefficient and expose more area per unit length. This novel design supersedes other conventional condenser designs by 4.7% higher COP, 8.2% lower water pressure drop, 4.68% lower compressor power. Two refrigerants have been examined in the study; R-134a which is used in commercial and industrial chillers and R-1234ze which has low global warming potential.
Transient Modeling of Seasonal Borehole Thermal Energy Storage System During Heat Energy Storing Process
Authors: Hwang Seokhwa , Yun Rin , Heo Jaehyeok
Published: January 2020

The borehole thermal energy system, KINTEX, located in Ilsan, South Korea was simulated using TRNSYS. The effect of the depth and spacing of the boreholes in this Borehole Thermal Energy Storage (BTES) system on the average stored energy and ground temperature were investigated over three years of its operation. Borehole thermal energy storage was simulated using the Duct Ground Heat Storage Model built in TRNSYS. The BTES system is composed of solar collectors, a heat exchanger, borehole thermal energy storage, and a thermal storage tank. The effects on the internal energy of the system were investigated by varying borehole depth and spacing while the volume and number of boreholes were kept constant. The total number of boreholes is 90 and all boreholes are connected in series. The borehole depths varied from 40 to 47.5[Formula: see text]m with steps of 2.5[Formula: see text]m, and the borehole spacing varied from 2.5 to 4.0[Formula: see text]m while the total volume of the BTES was maintained at 21,[Formula: see text]236 [Formula: see text]m3. The internal energy stored ranged from 1528.91 GJ to 1618.69 GJ over three years of calculations. With an increase of borehole depth and associated decrease of borehole spacing, the internal energy increased and ground temperatures approached 35∘C over a simulation period of three years.
Simulation of space charge transport in solid dielectric materials using transmission lines modeling method
Authors: Shamsi Amin , Ganjovi Alireza , Akmal Amirabbas Shayegani
Published: January 2020

In this paper, a lumped RC circuit model, which is based on the Transmission Line Modeling (TLM) method, is used to describe the space charge production and displacement mechanisms in three different solid dielectric materials (LDPE, PTFE and FR4). Each dielectric material is considered as a transmission line with the capacitive and resistance elements. The obtained circuit equations are solved along with the continuity equations for the various charged species in the bulk of solid dielectric material. The electric potential and field, density of different charged species and their recombination rates, resistive and capacitive properties of the solid dielectric material are calculated. In addition, the effects of the variations in the applied voltage, dielectric permittivity and temperature on these physical parameters are examined. Besides, compared with LDPE and PTFE, the net charge density increment rate in FR4 is much higher. Moreover, the influences of temperature on the net charge density in LDPE are not significant. Furthermore, at the higher applied voltages, the current density is increased. Interestingly, the effects of temperature variations on the recombination rates, net charge and current density in LDPE are much lower. Hence, the suitability of LDPE as solid dielectric material is proved.
Temperature dependences of electric properties of tetramethylammonium mono- and pentaiodide
Authors: Yushina Irina D. , Podgornov Fedor V. , Gavrilyak Maxim , Boronin Victor , Bartashevich Ekaterina V.
Published: January 2020

The dielectric properties of tetramethylammonium monoiodide and pentaiodide were investigated in broad temperature range ([Formula: see text]C till [Formula: see text]C). It was demonstrated that the structural organization of the polyiodide chain containing I[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]I charge-assisted halogen bonds influenced the parameters and the mechanism of electric conductivity of considered compound. The impedance spectroscopic measurements revealed that the direct current electric conductivity of pentaiodide salt is around four orders of magnitude higher than that of corresponding monoiodide. Moreover, pentaiodide demonstrates the hopping mechanism of conductivity.
Gilbert Damping in Annealed Perpendicular Exchange Biased CoFeB/Pt/MnIr Multilayers
Authors: Hu Hai-Lin , Yan Jia-Qi , Li Wei , Yang Xiao-Yu , Lou Shi-Tao , Zhang X. L.
Published: January 2020

Exchange bias and intrinsic Gilbert damping [Formula: see text] are two important parameters in magnetic multilayers. To explore the correlation between exchange coupling and damping, the samples Ta (2.6[Formula: see text]nm)/Pt (2.5[Formula: see text]nm)/Co[Formula: see text]Fe[Formula: see text]B[Formula: see text] (0.63[Formula: see text]nm)/Pt (0.5[Formula: see text]nm)/Mn[Formula: see text]Ir[Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text])/Ta (4[Formula: see text]nm) are deposited by using pulsed-DC magnetron sputtering. The static and dynamic magnetic responses with different thickness of antiferromagnetic MnIr are investigated using vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and the pump-probe time-resolved magneto-optical Kerr effect (TR-MOKE). The exchange bias initially increases and then decreases with increasing thickness of MnIr layer, which is associated with the interfacial exchange coupling. The dynamic results demonstrate that the Gilbert damping of CoFeB/Pt/MnIr can increase by up to 40% compared with CoFeB/Pt. Based on the fact that the spin pumping has been excluded because of the Pt interlayer, we attribute the enhancement in Gilbert damping to the exchange coupling between AFM and FM.
Surgical Treatment and Outcomes of Syndactyly: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mende Konrad , Watson Anna , Stewart David A.
Published: January 2020

Background: Different techniques are used to release simple and complex congenital syndactyly in order to create an adequate web space, and to separate the fingers to allow independent function.

Methods: This article is a systematic review of the literature, aiming to evaluate the evidence for the different techniques and outcome measures utilised.

Results: The studies consisted mainly of retrospective, non-controlled descriptive series and a few retrospective cohort studies. The level of evidence is predominantly poor.

Conclusions: Although recommendations in favour of any particular surgical technique cannot be given based on evidence, a number of conclusions can be drawn out of the existing literature with regards to the design of the incisions for finger separation, use of pulp flaps and grafts.
Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair with Suture Tape Augmentation
Authors: Lee Steven J. , Rabinovich Remy V. , Kim Andrew
Published: January 2020

Background: The purpose of this study is to describe our technique of thumb ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) repair with suture tape augmentation and to evaluate the short-term outcomes in our initial series of patients treated with this method of repair.

Methods: Patients with minimum one-year follow up after isolated UCL repair with suture tape augmentation were contacted for clinical evaluation, radiographs, and postoperative outcome questionnaires, including the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) questionnaire and study-specific questions. Thirteen of 15 (87%) consecutive patients who were treated using this method of repair were available for follow-up, 9 with acute tears and 4 with chronic tears.

Results: Average post-operative thumb metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and interphalangeal (IP) joint range-of-motion (ROM) was 0–57.5° and 0–71°, respectively, for chronic tears and 2.2–53.9° and 0–71°, respectively, for acute tears. Average grip and pinch strength relative to the unaffected hand was 102% and 84%, respectively, among patients with chronic tears and 103.3% and 88.7%, respectively, among those with acute tears. All patients demonstrated stability with a firm endpoint, relative to the unaffected thumb. The average QuickDASH score among all patients was 11.9 for the disability/symptom module, 0 for the sport module and 16.5 for the work module. Stiffness was reported among 4 patients and no patient suffered wound-related issues or other complications.

Conclusions: Thumb UCL repair with suture tape augmentation demonstrates short-term outcomes comparable to what has been reported for other methods of repair. It may potentially allow for an expedited recovery and rehabilitation process.
Eosinophilic Fasciitis – Beware of the Rare Form of Hand Contracture
Authors: Ou Yang Owen , Crepaldi Bruno E. , Berger Anthony
Published: January 2020

Eosinophilic fasciitis (EF) is a rare form of fibrosing disorder associated with peripheral eosinophilia with scleroderma-like skin induration and fasciitis in the extremities resulting in painful swelling, erythema and progressive contracture. We present a case report of EF and a literature review to raise awareness of this unusual condition and also highlight key features in its management.
Twenty-Five Years of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Research: From Phenotype to Genotype to Therapy, and What Comes Next
Authors: Wirth Brunhilde , Karakaya Mert , Kye Min Jeong , Mendoza-Ferreira Natalia
Published: January 2020

Twenty-five years ago, the underlying genetic cause for one of the most common and devastating inherited diseases in humans, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), was identified. Homozygous deletions or, rarely, subtle mutations of SMN1 cause SMA, and the copy number of the nearly identical copy gene SMN2 inversely correlates with disease severity. SMA has become a paradigm and a prime example of a monogenic neurological disorder that can be efficiently ameliorated or nearly cured by novel therapeutic strategies, such as antisense oligonucleotide or gene replacement therapy. These therapies enable infants to survive who might otherwise have died before the age of two and allow individuals who have never been able to sit or walk to do both. The major milestones on the road to these therapies were to understand the genetic cause and splice regulation of SMN genes, the disease's phenotype–genotype variability, the function of the protein and the main affected cellular pathways and tissues, the disease's pathophysiology through research on animal models, the windows of opportunity for efficient treatment, and how and when to treat patients most effectively.This review aims to bridge our knowledge from phenotype to genotype to therapy, not only highlighting the significant advances so far but also speculating about the future of SMA screening and treatment.
Worldwide Status of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Technology
Authors: Williams Mark Christopher , Vora Shailesh D , Jesionowski Gary
Published: January 2020

The solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology is expanding globally and finding new market opportunities in a variety of applications. The technology has not been fully tapped and has a promising future. The amazing versatility and applicability of the solid oxide (SO) technology is astounding as solid oxide fuel cells are developed as a source of efficient, low-cost electricity from natural gas distributed power generation, as reversible SO cells, and as solid oxide electrolyzers (SOEC) which have many applications in distributed generation (DG), hydrogen production, energy storage, microgrids, telecom backup market, combined heat and power (CHP), sensors, power to chemicals and fuels, data centers, ships, vehicles, absorption chillers, drones, and others. The United States has the greatest manufacturing capability and the most megawatts (MWs) of demonstrations of any nation due to Bloom Energy, which has over 350 MW of cumulative installation. The current US Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy SOFC Program administered by the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) includes cell development and core technology research to increase the reliability, robustness, and durability of cell, stack, and system technology. Japan leads the world in the total number of demonstrations of the SOFC with over 60,000 kilowatt (kW)-class demonstrations by Kyocera. The European efforts of Ceres, SOLIDpower, Sunfire, Elcogen, and others represent major new directions into SO electrolysis, datacenters, and power-to-fuels. In the last decade China, through Suzhou Huatsing Power, SOFCMAN and CNFC, has made significant progress in SOFC and in electrolysis, scaling to 30-kWe and 80-kWe, respectively.
Comparing the Levelized Cost of Returned Energy (LCORE) Values for Hydrogen-Based Conversion Pathways and Batteries
Authors: Schell Lori Smith , Reed Jeff G. , Zhao Li , Brouwer Jack , Samuelsen Scott
Published: January 2020

A method for analyzing the levelized cost of conversion, storage, and return of input energy as an end product net of losses with a zero cost of input energy, termed the levelized cost of returned energy (LCORE), is introduced and applied uniformly to compare the net conversion and storage costs of various renewable electrolysis technologies and hydrogen end-uses with battery and flow-battery energy storage technologies. The LCORE methodology accounts for capital costs, financing costs, operation and maintenance costs, energy efficiency of each step, technology lifetime, and replacement costs. Results show that the most valuable use of the renewable hydrogen is as fuel for fuel cell electric vehicles, although the costs of the hydrogen fueling infrastructure are estimated to be high using the existing paradigm of trucking, compression, and dispensing (adding more than $7/kilogram to the price of hydrogen). Importantly, the analyses show that the range of costs for pathways that produce hydrogen by electrolysis from renewable generation and return it to the electric grid using the natural gas system to transport the hydrogen to an existing combined cycle plant to produce the electricity have costs of $76–$210/MWh. These costs are directly competitive with battery energy storage pathways at $51–$150/MWh while also providing energy storage over durations as long as months, durations that are that are not technically feasible for many battery technologies due to charge leakage.
Options for Natural Gas and Methane Including Fuel Cell Utilization in a Sustainable Energy Infrastructure
Authors: Winkler Wolfgang , Behling Noriko , Behling Thomas , Managi Shunsuke , Williams Mark Christopher
Published: January 2020

The aim of this paper is to analyze in how far a consistent strategy can be developed using methane along the path from existing fossil fuel supply towards a sustainable energy supply infrastracture including fuel cells. This is the first of a three part analysis of the options for natual gas and methaner and the fuel cell technology as part of a closed cycle infrastructure. The transport sector is an important energy consumer and the impact of a methane infrastructure and the ongoing fuel cell development will be analyzed in a following paper. The impact of the population development and its challenges for such a roadmap will described in a third paper.
The Hydrogen Economy and Jobs of the Future
Authors: Bezdek Roger H.
Published: January 2020

Growth in the hydrogen and fuel cell industries will lead to vast new employment opportunities, and these will be created throughout a myriad variety of industries, skills, tasks and earnings. Many of these jobs do not currently exist and do not have occupational titles defined in official classifications. Further, many of these jobs require different skills and education than current jobs, and training requirements must be assessed so that this rapidly growing part of the economy has a sufficient supply of trained and qualified workers. We discuss the current hydrogen economy and technologies. We then identify by occupational titles the new jobs that will be created in the expanding hydrogen/fuel cell economy, estimate the average USA salary for each job, identify the minimum educational attainment required to gain entry into that occupation, and specify the recommended university degree for the advanced educational requirements. We provide recommendations for further research.
Estimating Defects in a Faulty Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Stack Using a Level-Set Approach with Charge Simulation Methods
Authors: Miyoshi Hiroyuki , Nara Takaaki , Gotoh Yuji , Izumi Masaaki
Published: January 2020

Polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) have tremendous potential as an energy source be- cause of high efficiency and low pollutant emission. Although a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) is core for power generation, it has been reported that the MEA is often damaged due to chemical reactions. Therefore, methods for estimating defects in the MEA are necessary to ensure the safety of the PEFCs. This study proposes a level set-based approach for estimating defects in the MEA of the PEFC stack. The current density in the faulty PEFC is calculated using a charge simulation method. Based on the measured magnetic fields exterior to the PEFC, the shape of the defects in the MEA is identified by updating the level set function. The experimental results show that the proposed method can be used for reconstructing the shape of defects in the MEA.
Temperature Impact on the Internal Resistance of a Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Considering the Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Diagnosis
Authors: Santana Jordy , Espinoza-Andaluz Mayken , Villon Gary , Qi Yuanxin , Li Tingshuai , Andersson Martin
Published: January 2020

A polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) is an electrochemical device that converts the chemical energy presents in the hydrogen into electricity and heat having as by product only water. The energy conversion process is carried out in a clean and noiseless manner. Depending on the applications, a PEFC works at different operating temperature. In this study, the internal resistance of a PEFC is evaluated by using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) at moderate low current density, i.e., 0.5 A/cm2, in the temperature range of 40 – 80°C. The evaluation is carried out considering frequencies between 3.1kHz and 1Hz. An equivalent Randle circuit is considered as adjusted model and the Nyquist and Bode diagram were obtained to analyze the internal resistance. Results show that the ohmic resistance and charge transport increase when the operating temperature is low, decreasing the cell performance. A voltage drop of 42 mV was obtained for the evaluated temperature sweep. At the same time, it was demonstrated that the double layer capacitance increases at high temperatures, increasing its operating performance.
Oxygen Vacancy Engineering on Pyrochlore Oxides Catalysts for Electrochemical Energy Storage and Conversion Systems
Authors: Feng Qi , Zou Jiexin , Zhao Zhiliang , Wang Yajun , Li Hui , Wang Haijiang
Published: January 2020

We demonstrate that oxygen electrocatalysts can be synchronously applied in acid oxygen evolution reaction (OER), alkaline OER and oxygen evolution reaction (ORR). The oxygen electrocatalyst (Y1.85Ba0.15Ru2O7) optimized by oxygen vacancy modulation presents an extraordinary catalytic activity and stability. Y1.85Ba0.15Ru2O7
catalyst presents an overpontential of 0.278 V in acid OER, which surpass most of the reported oxygen catalysts. Proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer (PEMWE) with Y1.85Ba0.15Ru2O7 anode attains 1.34 A cm-2 under a cell voltage of 1.7 V at 60 °C. Ba-doped Y2Ru2O7 shows an obvious advantage electrocatalytic activity than undoped Y2Ru2O7 in both OER and ORR process. This work paves a new avenue for developing active and robust oxygen electrocatalysts for both PEMWE and zinc-air battery applications.
A 5-Fluorouracil-Induced Hyperammonemic Encephalopathy Challenged with Capecitabine
Authors: Chahin Michael , Krishnan Nithya , Chhatrala Hardik , Shaikh Marwan
Published: January 2020

Cancer patients presenting with altered mental status demand a broad differential with early recognition of the etiology. Failure to do so is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Causes that must be considered include organ involvement of the cancer, electrolytes abnormalities, and even chemotherapeutic agents. A 32-year-old female patient had been recently started on FOLFOX for metastatic colon cancer. Her initial treatments were uneventful, but she later developed encephalopathy during day three of cycle five. During her evaluation, she was found to have hyperammonemia (84 mcmol/L), without hepatic failure, that resolved with stopping chemotherapy and supportive care. After a trial of home infusion fluorouracil, she developed hyperammonemic encephalopathy again. During both admissions, her symptoms resolved with IV hydration and cessation of chemotherapy. She was then successfully challenged with capecitabine (1000 mg/m2 daily), and additional hydration, and continued chemotherapy without recurrence of symptoms. Hyperammonemia is associated with fluorouracil though the mechanism is unclear. Suspected etiologies include either elevated levels of the drug due to slower metabolism or accumulation of certain metabolites. Additionally, risk factors such urease-producing bacterial infections, dehydration, and increased catabolism are thought to increase the risk for hyperammonemia. This case demonstrates the need for greater awareness of fluorouracil as a cause of hyperammonemic encephalopathy. Knowledge of this may allow for earlier recognition and reduced unnecessary testing.
Intelligent Manipulator with Flexible Link and Joint: Modeling and Vibration Control
Authors: Shao Minqiang , Huang Yuming , Silberschmidt Vadim V.
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a finite-element (FE) model of a manipulator with a flexible link and flexible joint as well as embedded PZT actuators and proposes a corrected rebuilt reduced model (CRRM) to make its dynamic characteristics more consistent with reality and facilitate control design. The CRRM considers the holding torque of the manipulator driving motor and eliminates the response divergence induced by a fault of the mass matrix of the FE model. In order to reduce the dimensions and maintain the precision of the model, an iterated improved reduction system (IIRS) method is adopted. Additionally, a LQR controller is designed based on the output function of the improved model. The simulation results demonstrate that the CRRM is consistent with reality and the active controller has good performance in suppressing vibration of the manipulator with both the flexible link and the flexible joint.
Truncated Class 1 Integron Gene Cassette Arrays Contribute to Antimicrobial Resistance of Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Kubomura Akiko , Sekizuka Tsuyoshi , Onozuka Daisuke , Murakami Koichi , Kimura Hirokazu , Sakaguchi Masahiro , Oishi Kazunori , Hirai Shinichiro , Kuroda Makoto , Okabe Nobuhiko
Published: January 2020

Class 1 integrons (c1‐integrons) are associated with multidrug resistance in diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC). However, little is known about gene cassettes located within these c1‐integrons, particularly truncated c1‐integrons, in DEC strains. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to reveal the relationship between antimicrobial resistance and the presence of truncated c1‐integrons in DEC isolates derived from human stool samples in Japan. A total of 162 human stool‐derived DEC isolates from Japan were examined by antimicrobial susceptibility testing, PCR‐based gene detection, and next‐generation sequencing analyses. Results showed that 44.4% (12/27) of c1‐integrons identified in the DEC isolates harbored only intI1 (an element of c1‐integrons) and were truncated by IS26, Tn3, or IS1‐group insertion sequences. No difference in the frequency of antimicrobial resistance was recorded between intact and truncated c1‐integron‐positive DEC isolates. Isolates containing intact/truncated c1‐integrons, particularly enteroaggregative E. coli isolates, were resistant to a greater number of antimicrobials than isolates without c1‐integrons. aadA and dfrA were the most prevalent antimicrobial resistance genes in the intact/truncated c1‐integrons examined in this study. Therefore, gene cassettes located within these intact/truncated c1‐integrons may only play a limited role in conferring antimicrobial resistance among DEC. However, DEC harboring truncated c1‐integrons may be resistant to a greater number of antimicrobials than c1‐integron‐negative DEC, similar to strains harboring intact c1‐integrons.
Effectiveness of a Treadmill Training Programme in Improving the Postural Balance on Institutionalized Older Adults
Authors: Pereira Natalia Moya , Araya Marcel Jean Pierre Massè , Scheicher Marcos Eduardo
Published: January 2020

Background. Institutionalized older adults have increased gait and balance impairment compared with community-dwelling older adults. The use of the treadmill for the rehabilitation process has been studied in different groups, but not in the institutionalized elderly. Objectives. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of a treadmill walking workout program on the postural balance of institutionalized older adults. Methods. Postural balance was assessed by the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), gait speed, and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) on 37 institutionalized older adults (23 in the intervention group and 14 in the control group). Training consisted of a 20-minute treadmill walking workout carried out twice a week for 10 weeks. Measurements were obtained before and after 10 weeks and with 1 month of follow-up for the intervention group. For the control group, the data were obtained before and after the training period. Results. Significant improvement occurred in all motor function parameters (BBS: p<0.01; gait speed: p<0.001; SPPB: p<0.001; and TUG: p<0.001). Conclusions. The present results permit us to conclude that a treadmill walking program had positive effects on the postural balance of institutionalized older adults.
A Patient with Complex Gout with an Autoinflammatory Syndrome and a Sternoclavicular Joint Arthritis as Presenting Symptoms
Authors: Fedeli M. M. , Vecchi M. , Rodoni Cassis P.
Published: January 2020

A 50-year-old man presented to the emergency department with widespread pain, especially at the chest level, fever, and night sweats. Physical examinations revealed a swelling with localized pain in the left sternoclavicular joint. Laboratory tests showed a CPR of 134 mg/l and an ESR of 70 mm/h. The patient’s anamnesis is, for a chronic gouty arthritis, poorly controlled type 2 diabetes and a lumbosacral radicular syndrome. Home therapy includes metformin, sitagliptin, gliclazide, naproxen with partial benefit on pain, and febuxostat. Differential diagnoses of sternoclavicular swelling include infection, crystal or psoriatic arthropathy, tumor pathology, SAPHO syndrome, and osteoarthritis. An ultrasound scan performed at the thoracic level showed the presence of effusion in the sternoclavicular joint. A thoracoabdominal CT scan, performed in doubt of neoplasias, shows no masses but osteostructural nonspecific alterations of the sternoclavicular joint. We performed a dual energy CT (DECT) which reports a gouty arthropathy at the sternoclavicular joints (in the literature, only three similar cases are proved). Because of the poor therapeutic effects using febuxostat and systemic corticosteroids, the patient was treated with anakinra, an interleukin 1 receptor antagonist, which led, 6 months after the event, to a total remission.