bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Pathophysiology and Treatment
Authors: Lan Norris S. H. , Massam Benjamin D. , Kulkarni Sandeep S. , Lang Chim C.
Published: May 2018

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), the first category of pulmonary hypertension, is a chronic and progressive disorder characterised by angioproliferative vasculopathy in the pulmonary arterioles, leading to endothelial and smooth muscle proliferation and dysfunction, inflammation and thrombosis. These changes increase pulmonary vascular resistance and subsequent pulmonary arterial pressure, causing right ventricular failure which leads to eventual death if untreated. The management of PAH has advanced rapidly in recent years due to improved understanding of the condition’s pathophysiology, specifically the nitric oxide, prostacyclin-thromboxane and endothelin-1 pathways. Five classes of drugs targeting these pathways are now available: phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators, prostacyclin analogues, prostacyclin receptor agonists and endothelin receptor antagonists. These developments have led to substantial improvements in mortality rate in recent decades. Recently, long-term studies have demonstrated sustained progression-free survival and have created a new paradigm of initial combination therapy. Despite these targeted therapies, PAH is still associated with significant morbidity and mortality. As such, further research into broadening our understanding of PAH pathophysiology is underway with potential of increasing the repertoire of drugs available.
The Role of Entropy in Estimating Financial Network Default Impact
Authors: Stutzer Michael
Published: May 2018

Agents in financial networks can simultaneously be both creditors and debtors, creating the possibility that a default may cause a subsequent default cascade. Resolution of unpayable debts in these situations will have a distributional impact. Using a relative entropy-based measure of the distributional impact of the subsequent default resolution process, it is argued that minimum mutual information estimation of unknown cells in the matrix of funds originally owed by the network participants to each other does not introduce systematic biases when estimating that impact.
Normal Laws for Two Entropy Estimators on Infinite Alphabets
Authors: Chen Chen , Grabchak Michael , Stewart Ann , Zhang Jialin , Zhang Zhiyi
Published: May 2018

This paper offers sufficient conditions for the Miller–Madow estimator and the jackknife estimator of entropy to have respective asymptotic normalities on countably infinite alphabets.
Characterization of the Stroke-Induced Changes in the Variability and Complexity of Handgrip Force
Authors: Zhu Pengzhi , Wu Yuanyu , Liang Jingtao , Ye Yu , Liu Huihua , Yan Tiebin , Song Rong
Published: May 2018

Introduction: The variability and complexity of handgrip forces in various modulations were investigated to identify post-stroke changes in force modulation, and extend our understanding of stroke-induced deficits. Methods: Eleven post-stroke subjects and ten age-matched controls performed voluntary grip force control tasks (power-grip tasks) at three contraction levels, and stationary dynamometer holding tasks (stationary holding tasks). Variability and complexity were described with root mean square jerk (RMS-jerk) and fuzzy approximate entropy (fApEn), respectively. Force magnitude, Fugl-Meyer upper extremity assessment and Wolf motor function test were also evaluated. Results: Comparing the affected side with the controls, fApEn was significantly decreased and RMS-jerk increased across the three levels in power-grip tasks, and fApEn was significantly decreased in stationary holding tasks. There were significant strong correlations between RMS-jerk and clinical scales in power-grip tasks. Discussion: Abnormal neuromuscular control, altered mechanical properties, and atrophic motoneurons could be the main causes of the differences in complexity and variability in post-stroke subjects.
Myths of Early Math
Authors: Clements Douglas , Sarama Julie
Published: May 2018

Myths about early education abound. Many beliefs people hold about early math have a grain of truth in them, but as a whole are not true—they are largely myths. But the myths persist, and many harm children. In this article, we address ubiquitous math myths that may be negatively affecting many young students. We conclude that avoiding the myths and listening to the findings of research and the wisdom of expert practice will serve both teachers and children well.
Hybrid Solar-Geothermal Energy Absorption Air-Conditioning System Operating with NaOH-H2O—Las Tres Vírgenes (Baja California Sur), “La Reforma” Case
Authors: Galindo-Luna Yuridiana Rocio , Gómez-Arias Efraín , Romero Rosenberg J. , Venegas-Reyes Eduardo , Montiel-González Moisés , Unland-Weiss Helene Emmi Karin , Pacheco-Hernández Pedro , González-Fernández Antonio , Díaz-Salgado Jorge
Published: May 2018

Solar and geothermal energies are considered cleaner and more useful energy sources that can be used to avoid the negative environmental impacts caused by burning fossil fuels. Several works have reported air-conditioning systems that use solar energy coupled to geothermal renewable energy as a thermal source. In this study, an Absorption Air-Conditioning System (AACS) used sodium hydroxide-water (NaOH-H2O) instead of lithium bromide-water to reduce the cost. Low enthalpy geothermal heat was derived from two shallow wells, 50 and 55 m deep. These wells are of interest due to the thermal recovery (temperature vs. time) of 56.2 °C that was possible at the maximum depth, which can be used for the first stage of the process. These wells were coupled with solar energy as a geothermal energy application for direct uses such as air-conditioning systems. We studied the performance of an absorption cooling system operating with a NaOH-H2O mixture and using a parabolic trough plant coupled with a low enthalpy geothermal heat system as a hybrid heat source, as an alternative process that can help reduce operating costs and carbon dioxide emissions. The numerical heat transfer results showed the maximum convective heat transfer coefficient, as function of fluid velocity, and maximum temperature for a depth higher than 40 m. The results showed that the highest temperatures occur at low fluid velocities of less than or equal to 5.0 m/s. Under these conditions, reaching temperatures between 51.0 and 56.2 °C in the well was possible, which is required of the geothermal energy for the solar energy process. A water stream was used as the working fluid in the parabolic trough collector field. During the evaluation stage, the average experimental storage tank temperature achieved by the parabolic trough plant was 93.8 °C on October 23 and 92.9 °C on October 25, 2017. The numerical simulation used to evaluate the performance of the absorption cycle used a generator temperature of 90 °C, a condenser and absorber temperature at 35 °C, and an evaporator temperature of 10 °C. The Coefficient of Performance was calculated as 0.71 under design conditions.
Enhanced Two-Stage Hierarchical Control for a Dual Mode WECS-Based Microgrid
Authors: Imran Rasool M. , Wang Shaorong
Published: May 2018

Along with the great benefits of utilizing renewable energy (e.g., wind energy) in the power system, there are also some issues, such as increasing the uncertainty and reducing the system inertia. Communication-based centralized control has started to play a significant role in reacting to the aforementioned issues, especially for relatively small systems, such as microgrids. In this context, in this paper, an enhanced communication-based hierarchical control for a dual mode wind energy conversion system-based microgrid is modeled and investigated. The primary stage utilized the P-V/Q-f droop method, which is the preferred droop method to be used in microgrids when the line impedance is mainly resistive. The secondary stage relied on an enhanced methodology for compensating the deviations of voltage and frequency and improving the performance of the microgrid during small and large signal disturbances. Moreover, as this microgrid operates in a dual mode, the mode transition cases from grid-tied mode to autonomous mode and vice versa have been addressed. Thereafter, an improved control scheme for the unplanned outage transition and a modified control scheme for the pre-synchronization and reconnection transition were proposed. Finally, the proposed work was evaluated by the simulation results in MATLAB environment.
A PESTLE Policy Mapping and Stakeholder Analysis of Indonesia’s Fossil Fuel Energy Industry
Authors: Widya Yudha Satya , Tjahjono Benny , Kolios Athanasios
Published: May 2018

Indonesia has a long-standing history of reliance on fossil fuels, which reflects the country’s vast reserves of crude oil, natural gas, coal, and other resources. Consequently, the potential of Indonesia’s fossil energy industry is both complex and multi-layered. This paper aims to carry out a policy mapping and stakeholder analysis of Indonesia’s fossil energy industry, adopting a PESTLE (Political, Economic, Social, Technology, Legal, and Environmental) approach, which allows identification of multidisciplinary stakeholders and underlying relationships across the sector. The outcomes from the analysis indicated the importance of strategically aligning the stakeholders’ policies to the needs of other relevant stakeholders. Furthermore, the central and regional governments need to work closely in order to better sense if there is a change in the policy, be receptive to anticipating the potential impacts, and to avoid policies being executed in an isolated manner.
Thief Zone Assessment in Sandstone Reservoirs Based on Multi-Layer Weighted Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Huang Bin , Xu Rui , Fu Cheng , Wang Ying , Wang Lu
Published: May 2018

Many factors influence the evaluation process of thief zones. The evaluation index contains very complex information. How to quickly obtain effective information is the key to improve the evaluation quality for thief zones. Considering that the correlation and information redundancy among the evaluation indexes will seriously affect the evaluation results for the thief zone, based on the principal component analysis (PCA) method, this paper proposes a multi-layer weighted principal component analysis method (MLWPCA). Firstly, factor analysis is performed on the original data to obtain the plurality subsystems of the evaluation index. Then, a principal component is analyzed through the subsystems of the evaluation index PCA to obtain the principal component score. Finally, the subsystem is weighted by the factor score and the comprehensive thief zone score is obtained by combining the subsystem weight and the subsystem score. A case study on the Daqing oilfield shows the effectiveness of the method, verified by tracer tests when applying the MLWPCA method to evaluate the thief zone. The thief zone of the Daqing oilfield is obviously affected by effective thickness, coefficient of permeability variation and interwell connectivity. At present, there are 10 well developed thief zones and eight medium developed thief zones in Daqing oilfield. The accuracy of this method is 94.44%. Compared with PCA, this method has better pertinence in evaluating thief zones, and is more effective in determining the principle influencing factors.
A Numerical Study on the Light-Weight Design of PTC Heater for an Electric Vehicle Heating System
Authors: Kang Hyun Sung , Sim Seungkyu , Shin Yoon Hyuk
Published: May 2018

As the market for electric vehicles grows at a remarkable rate, various models of electric vehicles are currently in development, in parallel to the commercialization of components for diverse types of power supply. Cabin heating and heat management components are essential to electric vehicles. Any design for such components must consider the requirements for heating capacity and power density, which need to reflect both the power source and weight reduction demand of any electric vehicle. In particular, design developments in electric heaters have predominantly focused on experimental values because of structural characteristics of the heater and the variability of heat sources, requiring considerable cost and duration. To meet the ever-changing demands of the market, an improved design process for more efficient models is essential. To improve the efficacy of the design process for electric heaters, this study conducted a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis of an electric heater with specific dimensions by changing design parameters and operating conditions of key components. The CFD analysis modeled heat characteristics through the application of user-defined functions (UDFs) to reflect temperature properties of Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) elements, which heat an electric heater. Three analysis models, which included fin as well as PTC elements and applied different spaces between the heat rods, were compared in terms of heating performance. In addition, the heat performance and heat output density of each analysis model was analyzed according to the variation of air flow at the inlet of the radiation section of an electric heater. Model B was selected, and a prototype was fabricated based on the model. The performance of the prototype was evaluated, and the correlation between the analysis results and the experimental ones was identified. The error rate between performance change rates was approximately 4%, which indicated that the reliability between the design model and the prototype was attained. Consequently, the design range of effective performance and the guideline for lightweight design could be presented based on the simulation of electric heaters for various electric vehicles. The fabrication of prototypes and minimum comparison demonstrated opportunities to reduce both development cost and duration.
The Governance of Risks in Ridesharing: A Revelatory Case from Singapore
Authors: Li Yanwei , Taeihagh Araz , De Jong Martin
Published: May 2018

Recently we have witnessed the worldwide adoption of many different types of innovative technologies, such as crowdsourcing, ridesharing, open and big data, aiming at delivering public services more efficiently and effectively. Among them, ridesharing has received substantial attention from decision-makers around the world. Because of the multitude of currently understood or potentially unknown risks associated with ridesharing (unemployment, insurance, information privacy, and environmental risk), governments in different countries apply different strategies to address such risks. Some governments prohibit the adoption of ridesharing altogether, while other governments promote it. In this article, we address the question of how risks involved in ridesharing are governed over time. We present an in-depth single case study on Singapore and examine how the Singaporean government has addressed risks in ridesharing over time. The Singaporean government has a strong ambition to become an innovation hub, and many innovative technologies have been adopted and promoted to that end. At the same time, decision-makers in Singapore are reputed for their proactive style of social governance. The example of Singapore can be regarded as a revelatory case study, helping us further to explore governance practices in other countries.
Parameter Sensitivity Study for Typical Expander-Based Transcritical CO2 Refrigeration Cycles
Authors: Zhang Bo , Chen Liu , Liu Lang , Zhang Xiaoyan , Wang Mei , Ji Changfa , Song KI-IL
Published: May 2018

A sensitivity study was conducted for three typical expander-based transcritical CO2 cycles with the developed simulation model, and the sensitivities of the maximum coefficient of performance (COP) to the key operating parameters, including the inlet pressure of gas cooler, the temperatures at evaporator inlet and gas cooler outlet, the inter-stage pressure and the isentropic efficiency of expander, were obtained. The results showed that the sensitivity to the gas cooler inlet pressure differs greatly before and after the optimal gas cooler inlet pressure. The sensitivity to the intercooler outlet temperature in the two-stage cycles increases sharply to near zero and then keeps almost constant at intercooler outlet temperature of higher than 45 °C. However, the sensitivity stabilizes near zero when the evaporator inlet temperature is very low of −26.1 °C. In two-stage compression with an intercooler and an expander assisting in driving the first-stage compressor (TEADFC) cycle, an abrupt change in the sensitivity of maximum COP to the inter-stage pressure was observed, but disappeared after intercooler outlet temperature exceeds 50 °C. The sensitivity of maximum COP to the expander isentropic efficiency increases almost linearly with the expander isentropic efficiency.
A Hybrid BA-ELM Model Based on Factor Analysis and Similar-Day Approach for Short-Term Load Forecasting
Authors: Sun Wei , Zhang Chongchong
Published: May 2018

Accurate power-load forecasting for the safe and stable operation of a power system is of great significance. However, the random non-stationary electric-load time series which is affected by many factors hinders the improvement of prediction accuracy. In light of this, this paper innovatively combines factor analysis and similar-day thinking into a prediction model for short-term load forecasting. After factor analysis, the latent factors that affect load essentially are extracted from an original 22 influence factors. Then, considering the contribution rate of history load data, partial auto correlation function (PACF) is employed to further analyse the impact effect. In addition, ant colony clustering (ACC) is adopted to excavate the similar days that have common factors with the forecast day. Finally, an extreme learning machine (ELM), whose input weights and bias threshold are optimized by a bat algorithm (BA), hereafter referred as BA-ELM, is established to predict the electric load. A simulation experience using data deriving from Yangquan City shows its effectiveness and applicability, and the result demonstrates that the hybrid model can meet the needs of short-term electric load prediction.
Simulation of Ground Stress Field and Advanced Prediction of Gas Outburst Risks in the Non-Mining Area of Xinjing Mine, China
Authors: Wang Jilin , Li Ming , Xu Shaochun , Qu Zhenghui , Jiang Bo
Published: May 2018

In order to predict in advance the coal and gas outburst risks in the No. 3 coal seam in the non-mining area of the Xinjing mine, the strata were divided into seven rock assemblage types based on the lithologic characteristics of strata in the research area, and eight geological profile models were constructed. The finite element methods were used to simulate the ground stress field of the No. 3 seam floor. Based on the log curve, the coal structural type of the No. 3 coal seam was identified, with the thicknesses of the coal body under different types of damage being marked off in each borehole. A damage index of the coal structure (DV) was also proposed, and the DV indexes for all boreholes were calculated. The coal and gas outburst risks in the research area were comprehensively evaluated and predicted through a superposition analysis of the spatial distribution states of three indexes, namely: ground stress, coal structure damage degree, and coal seam gas content. The results show that the equivalent stress of the No. 3 coal seam floor is usually within the range of 9–26 MPa. The high-stress zone presents a strip distribution along the northeast–southwest (NE–SW) direction. The distribution of ground stress is mainly subject to the folds and buried depth of the coal seam. The distribution range where the damage degree of the coal structure falls under Types II and III is DV ≥ 22. The gas outburst risk in the mid-southern and northeastern parts of the research area is high, whereas that in the mid-western part is low. The zones with a high and low degrees of gas outburst risks are all mainly present as strips in the NE–SW direction. The gas outburst risk in the northwest and southeast is moderate. The research results can provide guidance for gas control in non-mining areas.
A Comparative Study of Indoor Radon Levels between Two Similar Dwellings Using CONTAM Software
Authors: García-Tobar Javier
Published: May 2018

Considered the second biggest risk factor for lung cancer in humans after smoking, indoor radon gas (222Rn) is produced by the radioactive decay of 226Ra, which is mainly present in building materials and soil. The current study proposes a methodology for estimating radon levels inside a dwelling using the multizone airflow and contaminant transport modeling software CONTAM, with the main purpose to improve indoor air quality by optimizing mechanical ventilation. The generation rate of indoor radon sources was investigated in relation to the total surface of each room and was subsequently used for identifying the rooms that require special attention. The methodology described should assist in modeling indoor radon contamination, which can be used to optimize the ventilation in a dwelling.
Nonlinear Rheology and Fracture of Disclination Network in Cholesteric Blue Phase III
Authors: Fujii Shuji , Sasaki Yuji , Orihara Hiroshi
Published: May 2018

Nonlinear rheological properties of chiral crystal cholesteryl oleyl carbonate (COC) in blue phase III (BPIII) were investigated under different shear deformations: large amplitude oscillatory shear, step shear deformation, and continuous shear flow. Rheology of the liquid crystal is significantly affected by structural rearrangement of defects under shear flow. One of the examples on the defect-mediated rheology is the blue phase rheology. Blue phase is characterized by three dimensional network structure of the disclination lines. It has been numerically studied that the rheological behavior of the blue phase is dominated by destruction and creation of the disclination networks. In this study, we find that the nonlinear viscoelasticity of BPIII is characterized by the fracture of the disclination networks. Depending on the degree of the fracture, the nonlinear viscoelasticity is divided into two regimes; the weak nonlinear regime where the disclination network locally fractures but still shows elastic response, and the strong nonlinear regime where the shear deformation breaks up the networks, which results in a loss of the elasticity. Continuous shear deformation reveals that a series of the fracture process delays with shear rate. The shear rate dependence suggests that force balance between the elastic force acting on the disclination lines and the viscous force determines the fracture behavior.
High-Pressure Treatment of Non-Hydrated Flour Affects Structural Characteristics and Hydration
Authors: Jakobi Sabina , Jekle Mario , Becker Thomas
Published: May 2018

In recent years, high-pressure treatment (HPT) has become an established process concerning the preservation of food. However, studies dealing with the structural, and consequently functional modification of non-hydrated starchy matrices (moisture content ≤ 15%) by HPT are missing. To close this knowledge gap, pressure (0–600 MPa, 10 min) and pressurization time depending (0–20 min, 450 MPa) alterations of wheat flour were investigated. Pressure rise from 0 to 600 MPa or pressurization time rise from 0 to 20 min resulted in a decline of amylopectin content from 68.3 ± 2.0% to 59.7 ± 1.5% (linearly, R2 = 0.83) and 59.6 ± 0.7% (sigmoidal), respectively. Thereby, detectable total amount of starch decreased from 77.7 ± 0.8% linearly to 67.6 ± 1.7%, and sigmoidal, to 69.4 ± 0.4%, respectively. Increase in pressure caused a linear decrease in gelatinization enthalpy of 33.2 ± 5.6%, and linear increase in hydration properties by 11.0 ± 0.6%. The study revealed structural and technological relevant alterations of starch-based food matrices with low moisture content by HPT, which must be taken into consideration during processing and preservation of food.
Advanced Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate Aerogels from Plastic Waste for Acoustic and Thermal Insulation Applications
Authors: Koh Hong Wei , Le Duyen K. , Ng Gek Nian , Zhang Xiwen , Phan-Thien Nhan , Kureemun Umeyr , Duong Hai M.
Published: May 2018

This work presents for the first time, a simple, practical and scalable approach to fabricating recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) aerogels for thermal and acoustic insulation applications. The rPET aerogels were successfully developed from recycled PET fibers and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and glutaraldehyde (GA) cross-linkers using a freeze-drying process. The effects of various PET fiber concentrations (0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 by wt.%), fiber deniers (3D, 7D and 15D) and fiber lengths (32 mm and 64 mm) on the rPET aerogel structures and multi-properties were comprehensively investigated. The developed rPET aerogels showed a highly porous network structure (98.3–99.5%), ultra-low densities (0.007–0.026 g/cm3), hydrophobicity with water contact angles of 120.7–149.8°, and high elasticity with low compressive Young’s modulus (1.16–2.87 kPa). They exhibited superior thermal insulation capability with low thermal conductivities of 0.035–0.038 W/m.K, which are highly competitive with recycled cellulose and silica-cellulose aerogels and better than mineral wool and polystyrene. The acoustic absorption results were also found to outperform a commercial acoustic foam absorber across a range of frequencies.
Characterization of Antimicrobial Resistance Determinants and Class 1 and Class 2 Integrons in Salmonella enterica spp., Multidrug-Resistant Isolates from Pigs
Authors: Argüello Héctor , Guerra Beatriz , Rodríguez Irene , Rubio Pedro , Carvajal Ana
Published: May 2018

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and Salmonella spp., are primary concerns in public health. The present study characterizes the AMR determinants of 62 multi-drug resistant (MDR) Salmonella enterica spp., isolates from swine, which were obtained between 2004–2006, a major source of human salmonellosis. The AMR determinants were investigated by PCR, checking the presence of class 1 and class 2 integrons and 29 resistance genes. Genes sul1, blaTEM1-like, aadA2, tet(A), and dfrA12 were more prevalent (p < 0.05) within the determinants that were checked for each of these antimicrobials. Co-existence of different genes conferring resistance to the same antimicrobial was common. No differences in AMR determinants prevalence were observed between Salmonella Typhimurium and other serovars from the study. Class 1 integrons were detected in 48 of 62 isolates, again with no differences being linked to any serovar. Nine different variable regions were observed, 1000 bp/aadA2-1200 bp/blaPSE-1 (13 isolates) and blaOXA-like/aadA1 (eight isolates) were the most common. Four isolates, including S. Typhimurium (2), Salmonella Bredeney (1), and Salmonella Kapemba (1) harboured a class 2 integron 2300 bp estX-sat2-aadA1. Results from the study highlight the importance of class 1 integrons and certain genes in MDR swine Salmonella isolates. The information is of relevance for monitoring in the forthcoming scope of reduction of antibiotic usage in swine production.
AtPAP2, a Unique Member of the PAP Family, Functions in the Plasma Membrane
Authors: Sun Qingqing , Li Jinyu , Cheng Wenzhen , Guo Huihong , Liu Xiaomin , Gao Hongbo
Published: May 2018

Purple acid phosphatases (PAPs) play various physiological roles in plants. AtPAP2 was previously shown to localize to both chloroplasts and mitochondria and to modulate carbon metabolism in Arabidopsis. Over-expression of AtPAP2 resulted in faster growth and increased biomass in several plant species, indicating its great potential for crop improvement of phosphate use and yield. Here, we studied the localization of AtPAP2 by transient expression in tobacco leaves. The results showed AtPAP2 was localized to the plasma membrane through the secretory pathway, which is different from previous studies. We also found that AtPAP2 had a close relationship with fungal PAP2-like proteins based on phylogenetic analysis. In addition, the C-terminal transmembrane domain conserved in land plants is unique among other AtPAPs except AtPAP9, which is a close homolog of AtPAP2. Taken together, our results provide information for further study of AtPAP2 in understanding its special function in crop improvement.
HF/VHF Radar Sounding of Ice from Manned and Unmanned Airborne Platforms
Authors: Arnold Emily , Rodriguez-Morales Fernando , Paden John , Leuschen Carl , Keshmiri Shawn , Yan Stephen , Ewing Mark , Hale Rick , Mahmood Ali , Blevins Aaron , Mishra Akhilesh , Karidi Teja , Miller Bailey , Sonntag John
Published: May 2018

Ice thickness and bed topography of fast-flowing outlet glaciers are large sources of uncertainty for the current ice sheet models used to predict future contributions to sea-level rise. Due to a lack of coverage and difficulty in sounding and imaging with ice-penetrating radars, these regions remain poorly constrained in models. Increases in off-nadir scattering due to the highly crevassed surfaces, volumetric scattering (due to debris and/or pockets of liquid water), and signal attenuation (due to warmer ice near the bottom) are all impediments in detecting bed-echoes. A set of high-frequency (HF)/very high-frequency (VHF) radars operating at 14 MHz and 30–35 MHz were developed at the University of Kansas to sound temperate ice and outlet glaciers. We have deployed these radars on a small unmanned aircraft system (UAS) and a DHC-6 Twin Otter. For both installations, the system utilized a dipole antenna oriented in the cross-track direction, providing some performance advantages over other temperate ice sounders operating at lower frequencies. In this paper, we describe the platform-sensor systems, field operations, data-processing techniques, and preliminary results. We also compare our results with data from other ice-sounding radars that operate at frequencies both above (Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets (CReSIS) Multichannel Coherent Depth Sounder (MCoRDS)) and below (Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) Warm Ice Sounding Explorer (WISE)) our HF/VHF system. During field campaigns, both unmanned and manned platforms flew closely spaced parallel and repeat flight lines. We examine these data sets to determine image coherency between flight lines and discuss the feasibility of forming 2D synthetic apertures by using such a mission approach.
Rock Magnetic, Petrography, and Geochemistry Studies of Lava at the Ijen Volcanic Complex (IVC), Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Pratama Aditya , Bijaksana Satria , Abdurrachman Mirzam , Santoso Nono Agus
Published: May 2018

Lava has complex geochemical characteristics based on differences in eruption centers, eruptive events, and flow emplacement. Characterization of lava is useful for understanding the geological conditions of a volcanic region. To complement geochemical methods, rock magnetic methods are being used to analyze lava. To explore the potential uses of rock magnetic methods for lava characterization, a series of magnetic measurements were completed in lava samples from eight locations in the Ijen Volcanic Complex (IVC) in Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia. These locations were grouped into two eruption centers: Ijen Crater and Mount Anyar. The magnetic measurements included frequency-dependent magnetic susceptibility, thermomagnetic, anhysteretic remanent magnetization (ARM), isothermal remanent magnetization (IRM), and hysteresis curve analyses. These measurements were supplemented using X-ray fluorescence, petrography analyses, and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). Based on their lithology, lava samples were categorized into basalt, basaltic andesite, and basaltic trachyandesite. The dominant magnetic mineral contained in the sample was iron-rich titanomagnetite and titanium-rich titanomagnetite with a magnetic pseudo-single-domain and small amounts of superparamagnetic grain minerals in some samples. The significant difference in mass specific susceptibility (χLF) is caused by differences in the crystallization process. The differences in susceptibility frequency dependence (χFD) highlighted the differences in the magma cooling rate, demonstrated by the differences in the percentage of opaque mineral groundmass. The rock magnetic method was proven to support the geochemistry and petrography methods used to characterize lava and identify the causes of differences in lava characteristics.
Bathymetry and Canyons of the Eastern Bering Sea Slope
Authors: Zimmermann Mark , Prescott Megan M.
Published: May 2018

We created a new, 100 m horizontal resolution bathymetry raster and used it to define 29 canyons of the eastern Bering Sea (EBS) slope area off of Alaska, USA. To create this bathymetry surface we proofed, edited, and digitized 18 million soundings from over 200 individual sources. Despite the vast size (~1250 km long by ~3000 m high) and ecological significance of the EBS slope, there have been few hydrographic-quality charting cruises conducted in this area, so we relied mostly on uncalibrated underway files from cruises of convenience. The lack of hydrographic quality surveys, anecdotal reports of features such as pinnacles, and reliance on satellite altimetry data has created confusion in previous bathymetric compilations about the details along the slope, such as the shape and location of canyons along the edge of the slope, and hills and valleys on the adjacent shelf area. A better model of the EBS slope will be useful for geologists, oceanographers, and biologists studying the seafloor geomorphology and the unusually high productivity along this poorly understood seafloor feature.
Folklore in Antiquity
Authors: Hasan-Rokem Galit , Weiss Haim
Published: May 2018

Folklore exists in all human groups, small and big. Since early modernity, scholars have provided various definitions of the phenomenon, but earlier texts may also reveal awareness and reflection on the specific character folklore. In this short article, we wish to explore and look into the various definitions and characterizations of folklore given by ancient writers from various times and cultures. We will try to draw a cultural map of awareness to the phenomenon of folklore in ancient Near-Eastern texts, Greco-Roman culture, the Hebrew Bible, Early Christianity and Rabbinic literature. The main questions we wish do deal with are where and if we can find explicit mention of folklore; which folk genres are dominant in ancient writings and what was the social context of ancient folklore? That is to say, whom those text integrated in social frameworks, enabling their users to gain power or to undermine existing cultural, theological and social structures.
Transitioning from Acute to Chronic Pain: An Examination of Different Trajectories of Low-Back Pain
Authors: Gatchel Robert J. , Bevers Kelley , Licciardone John C. , Su Jianzhong , Du Ying , Brotto Marco
Published: May 2018

Traditionally, there has been a widely accepted notion that the transition from acute to chronic pain follows a linear trajectory, where an injury leads to acute episodes, subacute stages, and progresses to a chronic pain condition. However, it appears that pain progression is much more complicated and individualized than this original unsupported assumption. It is now becoming apparent that, while this linear progression may occur, it is not the only path that pain, specifically low-back pain, follows. It is clear there is a definite need to evaluate how low-back pain trajectories are classified and, subsequently, how we can more effectively intervene during these progression stages. In order to better understand and manage pain conditions, we must examine the different pain trajectories, and develop a standard by which to use these classifications, so that clinicians can better identify and predict patient-needs and customize treatments for maximum efficacy. The present article examines the most recent trajectory research, and highlights the importance of developing a broader model for patient evaluation.
Human Babesiosis Caused by Babesia duncani Has Widespread Distribution across Canada
Authors: Scott John D. , Scott Catherine M.
Published: May 2018

Human babesiosis caused by Babesia duncani is an emerging infectious disease in Canada. This malaria-like illness is brought about by a protozoan parasite infecting red blood cells. Currently, controversy surrounds which tick species are vectors of B. duncani. Since the availability of a serological or molecular test in Canada for B. duncani has been limited, we conducted a seven-year surveillance study (2011–2017) to ascertain the occurrence and geographic distribution of B. duncani infection country-wide. Surveillance case data for human B. duncani infections were collected by contacting physicians and naturopathic physicians in the United States and Canada who specialize in tick-borne diseases. During the seven-year period, 1119 cases were identified. The presence of B. duncani infections was widespread across Canada, with the highest occurrence in the Pacific coast region. Patients with human babesiosis may be asymptomatic, but as this parasitemia progresses, symptoms range from mild to fatal. Donors of blood, plasma, living tissues, and organs may unknowingly be infected with this piroplasm and are contributing to the spread of this zoonosis. Our data show that greater awareness of human babesiosis is needed in Canada, and the imminent threat to the security of the Canadian blood supply warrants further investigation. Based on our epidemiological findings, human babesiosis should be a nationally notifiable disease in Canada. Whenever a patient has a tick bite, health practitioners must watch for B. duncani infections, and include human babesiosis in their differential diagnosis.
Computational Convolution of SELDI Data for the Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Anyaiwe Destiny , Singh Gautam , Wilson George , Geddes Timothy
Published: May 2018

Alzheimer’s disease is rapidly becoming an endemic for people over the age of 65. A vital path towards reversing this ominous trend is the building of reliable diagnostic devices for definite and early diagnoses in lieu of the longitudinal, usually inconclusive and non-generalize-able methods currently in use. In this article, we present a survey of methods for mining pools of mass spectrometer saliva data in relation to diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease. The computational methods provides new approaches for appropriately gleaning latent information from mass spectra data. They improve traditional machine learning algorithms and are most fit for handling matrix data points including solving problems beyond protein identifications and biomarker discovery.
Reducing Amputations in People with Diabetes (RAPID): Evaluation of a New Care Pathway
Authors: MacRury Sandra , Stephen Kate , Main Fiona , Gorman Jane , Jones Sandra , Macfarlane David
Published: May 2018

People with diabetes are at increased risk of foot ulcers, which, if left untreated, can lead to infection, gangrene, and subsequent amputation. Management by a multidisciplinary diabetes foot team has been shown to reduce amputation rates; however, accessing specialist treatment is made particularly difficult when living in remote and rural locations, such as many individuals cared for within NHS Highland. The RAPID project was made up of two phases: firstly, to evaluate the technical feasibility of a new integrated care pathway using innovative technology, and secondly, to establish process enhancement of the pathway to justify a larger-scale study. Omni-HubTM enabled a face-to-face consultation by the community podiatrist to be enhanced by virtual consultation with members of the multidisciplinary foot team, including specialist diabetes podiatrists and a diabetes consultant. The technical feasibility study provided recommended changes focused around adaptations to the equipment used and the best means to gain successful connectivity. The process enhancement study demonstrated positive outcomes in the process with positive effects both in the service received by patients and experiences of healthcare professionals involved. The RAPID project provides evidence and justification for a larger-scale empirical study to test an embedded pathway and technology solution, which will inform policy change and a paradigm shift in the management of foot ulceration in the community.
Changes in Lumbopelvic Movement and Muscle Recruitment Associated with Prolonged Deep Squatting: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lui Tim K. S. , Tsang Sharon M. H. , Kwok Anthony W. L.
Published: May 2018

This study examined the changes in spinal kinematics and muscle recruitment of the lumbopelvic region associated with prolonged squatting. Eight subjects with chronic nonspecific low back pain (LBP) and eight asymptomatic subjects (AS) performed squat-to-stand and reverse movements, before and immediately after 15 min deep-squatting. Within-group and between-group differences in lumbopelvic kinematics and electromyographic activity acquired in lumbar erector spinae (ES), gluteus maximus (GM), and vastus lateralis (VL) were analyzed. During squat-to-stand after squatting, the LBP group showed slower then faster lumbar movement in the second and third quartiles, respectively. In the second quartile, the AS group moved with a significantly greater lumbar angle. However, significantly greater bilateral GM activity (+4–4.5%) was found in the LBP group only. A more profound decrease in bilateral ES activity (−10%) was also shown in the LBP group, yet this was nonsignificant compared to the AS group (−4%). In the third quartile, only the LBP group moved with a significantly greater lumbar angle, together with a significant increase in bilateral ES (+6–8%) and GM muscle (+2–3%) activity. The findings of the altered pattern of joint kinematics and recruitment of the key lumbopelvic muscles displayed in the LBP group inform on the possible mechanisms that may contribute to the increased risk of developing lumbar dysfunctions for people who work in prolonged squatting postures.
Within and between Individual Variability of Exposure to Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorder Risk Factors
Authors: Zare Mohsen , Sagot Jean-Claude , Roquelaure Yves
Published: May 2018

Industrial companies indicate a tendency to eliminate variations in operator strategies, particularly following implementation of the lean principle. Companies believe when the operators perform the same prescribed tasks, they have to execute them in the same manner (completing the same gestures and being exposed to the same risk factors). They attempt to achieve better product quality by standardizing and reducing operational leeway. However, operators adjust and modify ways of performing tasks to balance between their abilities and the requirements of the job. This study aims to investigate the variability of exposure to physical risk factors within and between operators when executing the same prescribed tasks. The Ergonomic Standard method was used to evaluate two workstations. Seven operators were observed thirty times between repeated cycle times at those workstations. The results revealed the variability of exposure to risk factors between and within operators in the repeated execution of the same tasks. Individual characteristics and operators’ strategies might generate the variability of exposure to risk factors that may be an opportunity to reduce the risks of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WR-MSDs). However, sometimes operators’ strategies may cause overexposure to risk factors; operators most often adopt such strategies to undertake their tasks while reducing the workload.
The Radon Gas in Underground Buildings in Clay Soils. The Plaza Balmis Shelter as a Paradigm
Authors: Rizo Maestre Carlos , Echarri Iribarren Víctor
Published: May 2018

In healthy buildings, it is considered essential to quantify air quality. One of the most fashionable indicators is radon gas. To determine the presence of this element, which is harmful to health, in the environment, the composition of the soil is studied. The presence of radon gas within a building depends both on the terrain in which it is located and on the composition of the materials of which it is composed, and not as was previously believed, only by the composition of the soil (whether granitic or not). Many countries are currently studying this phenomenon, including Spain where the building regulations regarding the accumulation of radon gas, do not list in their technical codes, the maximum dose that can a building can hold so that it is not harmful to people and the measures to correct excessive accumulation. Therefore, once the possible existence of radon in any underground building has been verified, regardless of the characteristics of the soil, the importance of defining and unifying the regulations on different levels of radon in all architectural constructions is evident. Medical and health science agencies, including the World Health Organization, consider that radon gas is a very harmful element for people. This element, in its gaseous state, is radioactive and it is present in almost soils in which buildings are implanted. Granitic type soils present higher levels of radon gas. Non-granitic soils have traditionally been considered to have very low radon levels. However, this paper demonstrates the relevant presence of radon in non-granitic soils, specifically in clayey soils, by providing the results of research carried out in the underground air raid shelter at Balmis Square in Alicante (Spain). The results of the measurements of radon accumulation in the Plaza Balmis shelter are five times higher than those obtained in a similar ungrounded building. This research addresses the constructive typology of an under-ground building and the radon presence in its interior obtained using rigorous measurement techniques.
The Impact of Activity Based Working (ABW) on Workplace Activity, Eating Behaviours, Productivity, and Satisfaction
Authors: Arundell Lauren , Sudholz Bronwyn , Teychenne Megan , Salmon Jo , Hayward Brooke , Healy Genevieve N. , Timperio Anna
Published: May 2018

The redesign of the physical workplace according to activity-based working (ABW) principles has potential to influence employee health and workplace outcomes. This natural experiment examined changes in accelerometer-derived workplace activity, self-reported eating behaviours, productivity, workplace satisfaction before (March to November 2014) and six to nine months after moving to an ABW workplace compared to a comparison workplace (n = 146 at baseline (56% ABW, aged 40.1 ± 8.5 years, 72% female). Interviews were also conducted with 21 ABW participants. Between- and within-group differences were examined and mixed model analysis examined intervention effects over time. Effect sizes were calculated on change scores (Cohen’s d). Although not statistically significant, ABW participants had meaningful improvements in workday sedentary time, light-, and moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity, job satisfaction and relationship with co-workers (d = 0.379–0.577), and small declines in productivity (d = 0.278). There were significant, meaningful, and beneficial intervention effects on perceived organisational support for being active in the workplace, frequency of eating lunch with colleagues, and satisfaction with the physical environment in ABW compared to comparison participants (d = 0.501–0.839). Qualitative data suggested that ABW employees associated ABW with greater opportunities for movement and collaboration, but had mixed views on the impact on productivity. Future research with larger samples and over longer follow-up periods is warranted.