bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) Extension for Chinese Herbal Medicines 2020 (PRISMA-CHM 2020)
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Tan Ran , Lam Wai Ching , Yao Liang , Wang Xiaoqin , Cheng Chung Wah , Liu Fan , Chan Jacky CP , Aixinjueluo Qiying , Lau Chung Tai , Chen Yaolong , Yang Kehu , Wu Taixiang , Lyu Aiping , Bian Zhaoxiang
Published: September 2020

Chinese Herbal Medicines (CHM) are the most common interventions of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), typically administered as either single herbs or formulas. Systematic reviews (SRs) are essential references for evaluating the efficacy and safety of CHM treatments accurately and reliably. Unfortunately, the reporting quality of SRs with CHM is not optimal, especially the reporting of CHM interventions and the rationale of why these interventions were selected. To address this problem, a group of TCM clinical experts, methodologists, epidemiologists, and editors has developed a PRISMA extension for CHM interventions (PRISMA-CHM) through a comprehensive process, including registration, literature review, consensus meeting, three-round Delphi survey, and finalization. The PRISMA checklist was extended by introducing the concept of TCM Pattern and the characteristics of CHM interventions. A total of twenty-four items (including sub-items) are included in the checklist, relating to title (1), structured summary (2), rationale (3), objectives (4), eligibility criteria (6), data items (11), synthesis of results (14, 21), additional analyses (16, 23), study characteristics (18), summary of evidence (24), and conclusions (26). Illustrative examples and explanations are also provided. The group hopes that PRISMA-CHM 2020 will improve the reporting quality of SRs of CHM.
Free Vibrations of Functionally Graded Graphene-Reinforced Composite Blades with Varying Cross-Sections
Authors: Chen Jie , Cui Pai , Li Qiu-Sheng
Published: September 2020

In this paper, free vibrations of functionally graded (FG) graphene-reinforced composite blades with varying cross-sections are investigated. Considering the cantilever boundary conditions, the dynamic model of a rotating blade is simplified as a varying cross-sections plate with pre-installed angle and pre-twisted angle. As a reinforcement, the graphene platelets (GPLs) are distributed either uniformly or gradiently on the plate along its thickness direction. The effective Young’s modulus is formulated by the modified Halpin–Tsai model. The rule of mixture is applied to calculate the effective Poisson’s ratio and mass density. The equations of motion are established by using the first-order shear deformation theory and von Karman geometric nonlinear theory. Based on the Rayleigh–Ritz method, the natural frequencies of the rotating FG blade reinforced with the GPLs are obtained. The accuracy of the present method is verified by comparing the obtained results with those of the finite element method and published literature. A comprehensive parametric study is conducted, with a particular focus on the effects of distribution pattern, weight fraction, and geometries size of the GPLs together with dimensional parameters of varying cross-sections blade on the dynamics of the FG blades reinforced with the GPLs.
Dynamic Force Loading Strategy for Effective Force Testing Considering Natural Velocity Feedback Compensation and Nonlinearity
Authors: Wang Zhen , Ding Yong , Shi Aming , Ning Xizhan , Wu Bin
Published: September 2020

The effective force testing is a promising seismic testing method for evaluating the structural dynamic response to earthquakes for conciseness and efficiency. However, two challenging loading issues are associated with this method, i.e. the natural velocity feedback (NVF) and nonlinearities related to the interaction between the loading system and specimen, thereby hindering its development and extensive applications. To address these issues, this study proposes a dynamic force loading strategy using a hybrid algorithm with linear compensation for NVF and model reference adaptive control via the minimal control synthesis (MCS) method. Online identification of linear compensation gain in preliminary tests is conceived based on the gradient descent method. A series of numerical simulations on a nonlinear loading system model with linear/trilinear single/two degree(s)-of-freedom specimens are conducted using five loading strategies, including linear and nonlinear compensations and MCS method. Comparative studies show that the proposed method and nonlinear compensation strategy outperform the other three methods, and sometimes the proposed method performs best. In summary, the proposed method is promising because of its accuracy and robustness as well as its ease of implementation and cost-effectiveness.
Cohomological operators on quotients by exact zero divisors
Authors: Windle Andrew
Published: September 2020

Let [Formula: see text] be a commutative ring, [Formula: see text] a pair of exact zero divisors, and [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be a complex of free [Formula: see text]-modules. In this paper we explicitly compute cohomological operators of [Formula: see text] over [Formula: see text] by constructing endomorphisms of [Formula: see text]. We consider some properties of these cohomological operators, as well as provide an example in which these cohomological operators act non-trivially.
Calculation of h1 of some Anderson t-motives
Authors: Ehbauer S. , Grishkov A. , Logachev D.
Published: September 2020

We consider Anderson [Formula: see text]-motives [Formula: see text] of dimension 2 and rank 4 defined by some simple explicit equations parameterized by [Formula: see text] matrices. We use methods of explicit calculation of [Formula: see text] — the dimension of their cohomology group [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text] dimension of the lattice of their dual [Formula: see text]-motive [Formula: see text]) developed in our earlier paper. We calculate [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] defined by all matrices of the form [Formula: see text], and by some matrices of the form [Formula: see text]. These methods permit to make analogous calculations for most (probably all) [Formula: see text]-motives. [Formula: see text] of all Anderson [Formula: see text]-motives [Formula: see text] under consideration satisfy the inequality [Formula: see text], while in all known examples we have [Formula: see text]. Do there exist [Formula: see text] of this type having [Formula: see text]? We do not know, this is a subject of further research.
An unsupervised stereo matching cost based on sparse representation
Authors: Cheng Chunbo , Li Hong , Zhang Liming
Published: September 2020

Supervised stereo matching costs need to learn model parameters from public datasets with ground truth disparity maps. However, it is not so easy to obtain the ground truth disparity maps, thus making the supervised stereo matching costs difficult to apply in practice. This paper proposes an unsupervised stereo matching cost based on sparse representation (USMCSR). This method does not rely on the ground truth disparity maps, besides, it also can reduce the effects of the illumination and exposure changes, thus making it suitable for measuring similarity between pixels in stereo matching. In order to achieve higher computational efficiency, we further propose an efficient parallel method for solving sparse representation coefficients. The extended experimental results on three commonly used datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Finally, the verification results on the monocular video clip show the USMCSR can also work well without ground truth disparity maps.
Multifocus image fusion using multiscale transform and convolutional sparse representation
Authors: Zhang Chengfang
Published: September 2020

Multifocus image fusion can obtain an image with all objects in focus, which is beneficial for understanding the target scene. Multiscale transform (MST) and sparse representation (SR) have been widely used in multifocus image fusion. However, the contrast of the fused image is lost after multiscale reconstruction, and fine details tend to be smoothed for SR-based fusion. In this paper, we propose a fusion method based on MST and convolutional sparse representation (CSR) to address the inherent defects of both the MST- and SR-based fusion methods. MST is first performed on each source image to obtain the low-frequency components and detailed directional components. Then, CSR is applied in the low-pass fusion, while the high-pass bands are fused using the popular “max-absolute” rule as the activity level measurement. The fused image is finally obtained by performing inverse MST on the fused coefficients. The experimental results on multifocus images show that the proposed algorithm exhibits state-of-the-art performance in terms of definition.
New results on K-frames
Authors: Rezapour R.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we introduce some new [Formula: see text]-frames related to the adjoint of a [Formula: see text]-frame and sum of two [Formula: see text]-frames in Hilbert spaces. We prove that adjoint of a normal [Formula: see text]-frame is also a [Formula: see text]-frame.
Research and application of the virtual simulation system teaching method in copper pyrometallurgy
Authors: Zhou Sijie , Zeng Dongming , Yan Chong , Huang Jiaqi , Wang Shuai , Zhou Yonghua
Published: September 2020

Copper pyrometallurgy has been holding a special place in the copper smelting industry. However, it is hard to explore the effect of parameters on production effectively due to the inoperable practice in the factory. The physical and chemical changes during the metallurgical process of copper smelting are also too complex to be observed. Therefore, we designed and built a virtual factory for copper pyrometallurgy, copper pyrometallurgy virtual simulation system (CPVSS), to simulate the copper smelting plant. The entire technical routes, system function, the main productive principle, technological process, and conditional tests were fully simulated in the CPVSS. It also provided a solution for the observation of internal phenomena in this paper. Moreover, sample computations were provided in this paper to illustrate the parameter simulation of the smelting process. A novel interactive experimental model was also constructed with virtual simulation technology and network multimedia technology, which provides powerful support for copper pyrometallurgy learning.
The Causal Properties of the Compressional Wave in an Unconsolidated Marine Sediment
Authors: Buckingham Michael J.
Published: September 2020

The Viscous Grain Shearing (VGS) theory predicts the existence of a compressional wave and a shear wave in an unconsolidated marine sediment. Although it is known that, subject to certain constraints, the shear wave satisfies causality, the causal nature of the compressional wave is less well understood. In this paper, the VGS compressional-wave speed and attenuation are examined in three frequency regimes, where it is shown that they follow approximately frequency power laws. It is then proved that the VGS propagation factor, which is a combination of the phase speed and attenuation, is a causal transform: its inverse Fourier transform is zero for all times prior to the onset of the source. The derivation of this result, which is a necessary condition if the VGS compressional wave equation is to satisfy causality, includes the development of a technique for evaluating a class of previously unknown integrals. This integration procedure relies on a limiting argument combined with certain Fourier transforms, the latter taking the form of “improper” integrals, which, it is shown, can be expressed explicitly based on the properties of generalized functions. An expression for the impulse response of the VGS compressional wave is also developed and shown to satisfy causality, although the transition from zero to the peak level is abrupt, quite unlike the perfectly smooth behavior exhibited by the impulse response of the VGS shear wave, which is maximally flat everywhere in the medium at the instant the source is activated.
Online Training for the Online Instructor
Authors: Lesane Katura M.
Published: September 2020

Institutions across the nation are developing online education programs that offer learners access to higher education. In addition to increased access for learners, instructors have increased access to career opportunities through online learning environments. With this access for instructors comes the responsibility of institutions to properly train instructors with skills necessary to educate the growing number of learners. This article focuses on the before, during, and after training strategies institutions should employ to prepare instructors for online teaching. This includes training on online instructional strategies, the establishment of Professional Learning Communities, the use of ongoing mentoring programs, and the use of ongoing, formative and summative feedback for instructors.
A Balancing Act Part III: Technical support on the front lines of modern-day online education
Authors: Shamsy Jennifer A.
Published: September 2020

Though a team approach is desired, many online instructors/trainers still fulfill an informally defined and delegated technical support role at least in part when time and skills allow. As we look to the future, there will be an increase in technical support demands further emphasizing the need for a comprehensive team approach to technical support.
Uncovering the Evidence Behind Common Learning Myths and Misconceptions
Authors: Krishnamurti Praveen
Published: September 2020

In his book Millennials, Goldfish & Other Training Misconceptions?, Dr. Clark Quinn systematically analyzes the most common myths, misconceptions, and superstitions currently prevalent in the theories and practice of adult learning. He presents a compelling case for relying on scientific methodologies while examining eLearning theories and concepts, regardless of the source from which they emanate.
Adaptive Hypermedia Content
Authors: Luch Derek
Published: September 2020

This brief literature review is as an introduction to the adaptive hypermedia possibilities in the education field. As digital learning technology advances and more complex algorithms hosted online, the practical aspects of machine learning may be of interest to practicing educators.
Screencasting Technology to Increase Engagement in Online Higher Education Courses
Authors: Waltemeyer Shaunna , Cranmore Jeff
Published: September 2020

This paper reviews screencasting software as a means to establish and maintain student engagement and authentic relationships in higher education virtual classrooms. While student engagement is often a challenge with virtual classrooms new technologies are available that allow teachers to provide audio and video feedback to students. Screencasting software can be used for individual feedback, demonstrations, and modeling. The paper concludes with recommendations for future research.
Integrating Technology: An innovative approach to improving online discussion boards
Authors: Kates Frederick R. , Hamadi Hanadi , Kates Malcolm M. , Larson Samantha A. , Audi George Raul
Published: September 2020

As the online education environment continues to grow, the use of online mechanisms for discussion have become important for enhancing the development of a learning community. Changing the way online discussion boards are used today, from teacher-generated prompts to student-created videos, which include a discussion question, may improve the learning experience and engagement. Therefore, there is always more to learn and more to try with instructional technology.
Learning Efficiency of Video-based Learning
Authors: Yan Shulong , Baxter Emily
Published: September 2020

What role should video play in online learning? That is the question that learning designers and teaching faculty face more and more when designing online instruction. In this paper we will share what we learned about students' learning experience in a video-based online course. We will propose a new perspective for looking at video as an instructional tool, based on our findings using a qualitative research method.
Designing for Learners, Designing for Users
Authors: Smulders Dave
Published: September 2020

While considerable time is rightly devoted to the development of learning outcomes, goals, activities, and assignments for the online environment, there is little or no consideration for making that environment transparent enough so that learners can engage in the learning activities instead of having to take a crash course in overcoming idiosyncratic interface design. The trouble comes from not recognizing the distinction between the roles of user and learner in the online environment.
The privacy paradox
Authors: Carlisle Jennifer
Published: September 2020

A national biometric database in place of our current flawed identification systems could prevent the loss of liberty and autonomy.
XML, web services and the changing face of distributed computing
Authors: Coyle Frank P.
Published: September 2020

A new kind of network offers a world of possibilities for moving data and building application architectures centered around common Internet protocols.
Is your software process staying with you?
Authors: Tadwalkar Sunil
Published: September 2020

It takes a village to build a process-oriented culture within an organization.
Shaping web usability
Authors: Badre Albert N.
Published: September 2020

Optimizing the user experience should be the ultimate aim of the Web usability designer.
Computer science meets economics
Authors: Ubiquity staff
Published: September 2020

Yale's Joan Feigenbaum talks about the possibilities for interdisciplinary research, the new field of algorithmic mechanism design, and her radical views on security.
The somatic engineer
Authors: Denning Peter J.
Published: September 2020

Engineers trained in value skills will be superior professionals and designers.
Stamp out technology virginity
Authors: Andersen Espen
Published: September 2020

Technology virginity and technology virgins are everywhere -- and more influential than you might like. Time to go on the offensive.
E-commerce security measures
Authors: Rushinek Avi , Rushinek Sara
Published: September 2020

Cost benefits of the security and systems management of electronic publishing Internet Web server subscription services and e-commerce.
Learning by redoing
Authors: Rothwell Trevis J.
Published: September 2020

The availability of components that do a myriad of tasks could lead programmer complacency
Quantum leaps in computing
Authors: Ubiquity staff
Published: September 2020

John P. Hayes on the next killer app, entangled states, and the end of Moore's Law.
What Makes a Publisher Important?
Authors: Rushinek Avi , Rushinek Sara
Published: September 2020

Maximum of Internet Citations Methodology
What's bugging Ellen Ullman?
Authors: Ubiquity staff
Published: September 2020

A conversation with the author of "Close to the Machine," and "The Bug: A Novel".
Bringing technology to market
Authors: Ubiquity staff
Published: September 2020

Henry Chesbrough on open innovation, erosion factors, and multiple paths to market
An Interview with Benjamin Kuipers
Authors: Ubiquity staff
Published: September 2020

Benjamin Kuipers on using commonsense reasoning to make useful conclusions, or, finding gold nuggets in a pan of sand.
An Interview with Peter Denning
Authors: staff Ubiquity
Published: September 2020

Peter Denning teaches students at the Naval Postgraduate School how to develop strategic, big-picture thinking about the field of computing. Denning, a past president of ACM (1980-82), has been involved with communicating our discipline, computing, to outsiders since 1970. Along the way he invented the working set model for memory management, developed the theory of virtual memory, promulgated operating systems theory, co-invented operational analysis of system performance, co-founded CSNET, and led the ACM Publications Board while it developed the Digital Library. He is an ACM Fellow and holds five major ACM awards. He just completed a five-year term as chair of the ACM Education Board.
Esther Dyson ... In focus
Authors: staff Ubiquity
Published: September 2020

Venture capitalist Esther Dyson is the chairman of EDventure Holdings, which publishes the influential monthly computer-industry newsletter Release 1.0 as well as the blog Release 4.0. The company also organizes the high-profile technology conference PC (Platforms for Communications) Forum, March 21-23, 2004. In this interview, she discusses her current interests, many to be covered at PC Forum. They include her investments, how to stop spam, outsourcing, and the overall high-tech industry environment.
An Interview with Jesse Poore
Authors: staff Ubiquity
Published: September 2020

Jesse Poore suggests a revolution in programming - holding software developers to the same level of rigor of training and workmanship as other professionals, developing software that's correct by design, and constraining the release of software-intensive products until they are scientifically certified as fit for use.
Thermodynamic Energy Efficiency of Electrochemical Systems Performing Simultaneous Water Desalination and Electricity Generation
Authors: Atlas I. , Abu Khalla S. , Suss M. E.
Published: September 2020

An emerging class of electrochemical systems utilize redox-active chemicals as input to simultaneously desalinate water and produce electricity within a single cell. This contrasts with traditional desalination technologies, such as reverse osmosis, electrodialysis and capacitive deionization, which consume net electricity during desalination. The underlying reason is that traditional desalination technologies perform solely a separation process, while such chemical-energy driven systems perform a combined process consisting of a spontaneous chemical reaction and a separation. Thermodynamic energy efficiency (TEE) of traditional technologies is defined as the ratio of the minimum energy to drive the separation process reversibly to the energy needed to perform the separation in practice. However, such a definition is not appropriate for systems which co-generate electricity and desalinated water. We propose that for these latter systems, TEE should be defined as the device electricity output divided by the maximum available energy. We develop a theoretical framework predicting the maximum available energy yielded by a combined redox reaction-desalination process. We utilize our framework to explore various input redox chemistries, and predict a maximum energy output of up to ∼25.74 kWh per m3 of desalinated seawater. We further introduce and experimentally characterize a desalination fuel cell driven by a hydrogen-oxygen redox couple, and apply our model to provide a first-time quantification of its TEE.
Improving the Protection Performance of AA2024-T3 in 3.5 wt% NaCl Solution Using the Synergistic Effect of Cerium Cations and Diethyldithiocarbamate Molecules
Authors: Mohammadi Iman , Shahrabi Taghi , Mahdavian Mohammad , Izadi Mazdak
Published: September 2020

In the present work, the synergistic effect of diethyldithiocarbamate (DDTC) molecules and Ce3+ cations on the corrosion inhibition of the 2024-T3 aluminum alloy was assessed by employing surface analysis and electrochemical tests. For this purpose, potentiodynamic polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were measured in the presence of Ce3+ cations and DDTC molecules. Also, surface analysis methods were employed to study the mechanisms of the inhibition in the presence of the Ce3+ cations and DDTC molecules. The results showed strong synergism between the DDTC molecules and Ce3+ cations due to the creation of a complex film on the surface of AA2024-T3. The complex film formation on the AA2024-T3 surface was proved using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Also, cathodic inhibition behavior and a wide passivation range attributed to the Ce+DDTC system were illustrated by the potentiodynamic polarization testing.
Review—Electronic Properties of 2D Layered Chalcogenide Surfaces and Interfaces grown by (quasi) van der Waals Epitaxy
Authors: Klein Andreas , Jaegermann Wolfram
Published: September 2020

The growth of two-dimensional layered chalcogenides on two- or three-dimensional substrates, named (quasi) van der Waals epitaxy, has been pioneered by the group of A. Koma at Tokyo University in 1985. The passive nature of the van der Waals surface is important in energy converting interfaces as solar cells and photoelectrochemical cells. For those reasons the two-dimensional materials have intensively been studied by us in the early 90s of the last century. The growth of different 2D/2D, 2D/3D and 3D/2D heterostructures has been studied with an emphasis on the electronic structure of the materials and their interfaces, which have been characterized using photoelectron spectroscopy and are reviewed in this contribution. Our work includes a discussion of the coupling of electronic states across the interfaces, which influences the growth behavior and determines energy band alignment. The weak electronic coupling allowed the first experimental determination of the band structure of a single layer of a 2D chalcogenide, namely WS2. We also review the electronic structure of a GaSe half-sheet terminated Si(111) surface, which provides an ideal platform for the integration of 2D materials with Si microelectronics.
Impact of experimental obesity on diaphragm structure, function, and bioenergetics
Authors: Rodrigues Gisele C. , Rocha Nazareth N. , Maia Ligia de A. , Melo Isabella , Simões Ana Carolina , Antunes Mariana A. , Bloise Flavia F. , Woyames Juliana , da Silva Wagner S. , Capelozzi Vera L. , Abela Glenn Paul , Ball Lorenzo , Pelosi Paolo , Rocco Patricia R.M. , Silva Pedro L.
Published: September 2020

Obesity has been associated with peripheral muscle dysfunction; however, little is known about its impact on the diaphragm. In the current study, we found high oxygen consumption in diaphragm tissue and changes in muscle fiber phenotypes toward a more oxidative profile in experimental obesity.
Link up Industry 4.0 with the Enterprise Collaboration System to Help Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Chiang Hua-Ko , Nagai Yukari , Lin Yung-Yu
Published: September 2020

Along with Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT), the need for e-management has been extensive. For helping small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to take the first step to link up Industry 4.0, the implementation of the enterprise collaboration system (ECS) in SMEs has become inevitable. We use SuccMail to examine the effect of external supports and internal supports for ECS implementation of performance. To conduct this aim, we adopted the questionnaire from ERP and revised it for ECS. We collected the data from three SMEs from Taiwan and used the SPSS to run the correlation and multiple regressions. We find that all the supports are related to the performance; however, considering all the supports together, only some supports have significant and positive effects. We conclude that the supports can help SMEs in implementing ECS to increase the performance. Furthermore, the internal supports are more significantly and positively affecting the performance of implementing ECS in SME.
Trust-Based Attack and Defense in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Survey
Authors: Fang Weidong , Zhang Wuxiong , Chen Wei , Pan Tao , Ni Yepeng , Yang Yinxuan
Published: September 2020

As a key component of the information sensing and aggregating for big data, cloud computing, and Internet of Things (IoT), the information security in wireless sensor network (WSN) is critical. Due to constrained resources of sensor node, WSN is becoming a vulnerable target to many security attacks. Compared to external attacks, it is more difficult to defend against internal attacks. The former can be defended by using encryption and authentication schemes. However, this is invalid for the latter, which can obtain all keys of the network. The studies have proved that the trust management technology is one of effective approaches for detecting and defending against internal attacks. Hence, it is necessary to investigate and review the attack and defense with trust management. In this paper, the state-of-the-art trust management schemes are deeply investigated for WSN. Moreover, their advantages and disadvantages are symmetrically compared and analyzed in defending against internal attacks. The future directions of trust management are further provided. Finally, the conclusions and prospects are given.
Analysis and Control on a Specific Electromagnetic Micromirror
Authors: Sun Wanyan , Tan Yonghong , Dong Ruili , Shen Wenjiang
Published: September 2020

In this paper, 10 resonant modes were divided based on the structure of a specific two-dimensional electromagnetic micromirror from Professor Shen’s team and Finite Element Method (FEM), and using as many as 10 resonant modes to do such analysis was the first time according to the best of our knowledge. The results showed that the slow axis can participate in several resonant motions under the signals of resonant frequencies. In particular, participating in Mode 1 for slow-scan axis was the key reason to the instability of Vertical Refreshing Scanning (VRS) in raster scanning. In addition, a piecewise PID control based on filters design for this electromagnetic micromirror was proposed to suppress the unexpected resonant oscillation and to improve the angular positioning accuracy in slow-scan axis control. Finally, the proposed method was applied to electromagnetic micromirror stages, and the experimental results showed that the proposed approach was reliable.
Characterizing Patients with Uncontrolled Blood Pressure at an Urban Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hoang Thanh , Hoang Thi Phuong Nam , Tran Nguyen Ngoc , Nguyen Anh Tuan , Nguyen Dang Vung
Published: September 2020

Great efforts to advance the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension for controlling hypertension have been made; however, the rates of uncontrolled blood pressure are still high. This study explored the rate of uncontrolled hypertension in patients with hypertension managed in an urban hospital of Vietnam and identified associated factors. A cross-sectional survey was performed from August to October 2019 among hypertensive patients at an urban hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam. Blood pressure was evaluated at the time of medical examination. Demographic, clinical, and behavioral characteristics were also collected. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the factors related to uncontrolled hypertension. Among 220 patients, the rate of uncontrolled hypertension was 40.5%. Females had a lower likelihood of having uncontrolled hypertension compared to males (adjusted OR = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.11–0.98). Higher duration of diseases (adjusted OR = 1.07; 95% CI = 1.01–1.14) and higher body mass index (adjusted OR = 1.23; 95% CI = 1.05–1.45) were positively associated with uncontrolled hypertension. Patients who carried supplies needed for self-care, cut down on stress, exercised regularly, and stopped/cut down on smoking were also less likely to develop uncontrolled hypertension. This study reveals that uncontrolled hypertension was common among hypertensive patients in Vietnam. Improving self-care capacity and encouraging healthy behaviors are critically important to control blood pressure, particularly among patients who were males and had high disease duration and body mass index.
Seismic Performance Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Frame‐Shear Wall Structures in Hydropower Plants Based on Material Damage
Authors: Shi Changzheng , Hu Lei , Wu He-Gao , Zhang Qi-Ling , Su Kai
Published: September 2020

For the reinforced concrete frame‐shear wall (RCF‐SW) structures in hydropower plants (HPs), the tensile cracking and compressive crushing of the reinforced concrete (RC) members are considered as the main potential damage. This paper presents a methodology to assess the seismic performance of RCF‐SW structures. In this methodology, a concrete damage plasticity model is employed to simulate the reinforced concrete, and the structural seismic responses are investigated through nonlinear incremental dynamic analysis (IDA). Several engineering demand parameters (EDPs) based on the material damage are proposed to identify the structural engineering limit states and damage states at the member level. The case of x HP is provided as an example to illustrate the methodology and discuss the probable nonlinear response and structural damage state. The concrete damage evolution, reinforcement stresses, and drift ratios of the RCF‐SW structure are presented, and the engineering limit states and structural damage states are identified. In comparison with the drift ratio index, the EDPs based on material damage are more suitable for identifying the damage state of the RCF‐SW structure, whose damage is controlled by the damage of the RC members.
Adaptive Neural Network Control Scheme of Switched Systems with Input Saturation
Authors: Jiang Xiaoli , Liu Mingyue , Liu Siqi , Xu Jing , Liu Lina
Published: September 2020

This paper investigates a scheme of adaptive neural network control for a stochastic switched system with input saturation. The unknown smooth nonlinear functions are approximated directly by neural networks. A modified approach is proposed to deal with unknown functions with nonstrict feedback form in the design process. Furthermore, by combining the auxiliary design signal and the adaptive backstepping design, a valid adaptive neural tracking controller design algorithm is presented such that all the signals of the switched closed-loop system are in probability semiglobally, uniformly, and ultimately bounded, and the tracking error eventually converges to a small neighborhood of the origin in probability. In the end, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by a simulation example.
Effect of Admixture on the Hydraulic Conductivity of Compacted Loess: A Case Study
Authors: Liu Pan , Zhang Xuejiao , Zhang Min , Yang Xueqiang
Published: September 2020

Hydraulic characteristic of the exposed ground plays an important role in the construction of “sponge city,” which is a popular concept in the world recently. Loess soil, which is a common geomaterial in its distribution area approximately 9.3% of the world’s land surface, usually could not satisfy the engineering requirement only by compacting without any other treatments. This paper aims to investigate the effect of a natural geomaterial, lateritic soil, which is more economical and environmental than the traditional admixtures such as cement and lime, on the saturated hydraulic conductivity (ksat) of compacted loess. A series of falling‐head permeability tests on pure loess and lime‐treated loess were carried out firstly for comparison; then lime‐treated loess mixed with different contents of lateritic soil was tested. To verify the availability of the coverage of high density lateritic soil on pure loess for antipermeability, which is a common treatment in local area, tests of different thickness of the coverage were conducted. The test results revealed that the admixture of lime could obviously decrease ksat of pure loess and 3% might be the most economical content. An empirical algorithm was proposed based on the results to estimate ksat of lime‐treated loess of which the lime content is out of the scope studied in this paper, and it would be useful for engineering design and numerical simulation of safety evaluation. The addition of lateritic soil in the 3% lime‐treated loess could further decrease ksat and its performance for antipermeability was better than increasing the lime contents simply. The coverage of high density lateritic soil could also improve the antipermeability of loess, and thickness at least of 30 mm was suggested for engineering practice.
Estimation of the Rupture History of the 2008 Mw8.0 Wenchuan Earthquake by Joint Inversion of Teleseismic and Strong‐Motion Records
Authors: Yin Deyu , Dong Yun , Liu Qifang , She Yuexin , Wu Jingke , Zhang Jihua
Published: September 2020

In order to reproduce the rupture history of the 2008 Mw8.0 Wenchuan earthquake, the teleseismic and strong‐motion records are adopted. Based on a multiple‐segment, variable‐slip model, the finite fault inversion method is utilized to recover the rupture process. The results are as follows: (1) the rupture duration of the Wenchuan earthquake is about 100 s, and the released seismic moment is 1.24 × 1021 N·m, equal to the moment magnitude Mw8.0. There are 5 asperities on the fault plane, indicating that the earthquake is composed of at least 5 subevents. (2) The slip is mainly distributed on the Beichuan fault, indicating that the Beichuan fault is the main rupture fault. On the southern part of the Beichuan fault, the dislocation underside the Longmenshan area and Hongkou‐Yingxiu near‐surface area is dominated by thrust, and the maximum slip is 11.8 m. Slip between the Yuejiashan and Qingping area is dominated by thrust. On the northern part of the Beichuan fault, the area under Beichuan is dominated by thrust, the slip under Nanba is thrust and strike, near Qingchuan, the slip turns into the strike slip, and the maximum slip is 13.1 m. The dislocation under Bailu is also dominated by thrust, with maximum slip 8.9 m. (3) The rupture of the Wenchuan earthquake is mainly a unilateral rupture to the northeast. The rupture started at the low dip angle part of the Beichuan fault, and after 3 s, it propagated to the Pengguan fault. After 10 s, the largest asperity under Longmenshan in the south section of the Beichuan fault began to break, lasting for about 24 s. Then, the Xiaoyudong fault was triggered by the Pengguan fault, and the bilateral rupture of the high dip angle part of the Beichuan fault started at about 6 s. South section of the Beichuan fault began to break at about 35 s, and at 43 s, 63 s, and 80 s, the rupture extended to Beichuan, Nanba, and Qingchuan areas.
Ultimate Pullout Capacity of a Square Plate Anchor in Clay with an Interbedded Stiff Layer
Authors: Feng Tugen , Zong Jingyao , Jiang Wei , Zhang Jian , Song Jian
Published: September 2020

Three‐dimensional nonlinear numerical analysis is carried out to determine the ultimate pullout capacity of a square plate anchor in layered clay using the large finite element analysis software ABAQUS. An empirical formula for the pullout bearing capacity coefficient of a plate anchor in layered soils is proposed based on the bearing characteristics of plate anchors in single‐layer soils. The results show that a circular flow (circulation field) is induced around the plate anchor during the uplift process and that the flow velocity and circulation field range are mainly affected by the properties of the soil around the plate anchor. The bearing characteristics of plate anchors in layered soils are influenced by factors such as the embedment depth of the plate anchor, the friction coefficient between the soil and the plate anchor, the thickness of the upper soil layer, and the thickness of the middle soil layer. The rationality of the finite element numerical calculation results and the empirical formula is verified by comparing the results from this study with results previously reported in the literature.
Diálogos entre Neomedievalismo, História e Jogos eletrônicos
Authors: Strazzi Allan Reveriego , Gonçalves Felipe Yann Cavalcanti
Published: September 2020

Este artigo pretende lançar luz acerca das possíveis conexões entre jogos digitais e a História através do conceito de neomedievalismo. Serão analisados principalmente os jogos do gênero de Grand Strategy Wargame e Role Playing Game (RPG) por meio de estudos de caso. Esse tipo de jogo digital constrói um contexto histórico que pode ser manipulado e moldado pelo jogador, permitindo uma recriação contrafactual do passado.
Tunica-Specific Transcriptome of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and the Effect of Intraluminal Thrombus, Smoking, and Diameter Growth Rate
Authors: Lindquist Liljeqvist Moritz , Hultgren Rebecka , Bergman Otto , Villard Christina , Kronqvist Malin , Eriksson Per , Roy Joy
Published: September 2020

Objective:

There is no medical treatment to prevent abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) growth and rupture, both of which are linked to smoking. Our objective was to map the tunica-specific pathophysiology of AAA with consideration of the intraluminal thrombus, age, and sex, and to subsequently identify which mechanisms were linked to smoking and diameter growth rate.

Approach and Results:

Microarray analyses were performed on 246 samples from 76 AAA patients and 13 controls. In media and adventitia, there were 5889 and 2701 differentially expressed genes, respectively. Gene sets related to adaptive and innate immunity were upregulated in both tunicas. Media-specific gene sets included increased matrix disassembly and angiogenesis, as well as decreased muscle cell development, contraction, and differentiation. Genes implicated in previous genome-wide association studies were dysregulated in media. The intraluminal thrombus had a pro-proteolytic and proinflammatory effect on the underlying media. Active smoking resulted in increased inflammation, oxidative stress, and angiogenesis in all tissues and enriched lipid metabolism in adventitia. Processes enriched with active smoking in control aortas overlapped to a high extent with those differentially expressed between AAAs and controls. The AAA diameter growth rate (n=24) correlated with T- and B-cell expression in media, as well as lipid-related processes in the adventitia.

Conclusions:

This tunica-specific analysis of gene expression in a large study enabled the detection of features not previously described in AAA disease. Smoking was associated with increased expression of aneurysm-related processes, of which adaptive immunity and lipid metabolism correlated with growth rate.
NR4A1 Deletion in Marginal Zone B Cells Exacerbates Atherosclerosis in Mice—Brief Report
Authors: Nus Meritxell , Basatemur Gemma , Galan Maria , Cros-Brunsó Laia , Zhao Tian X. , Masters Leanne , Harrison James , Figg Nichola , Tsiantoulas Dimitrios , Geissmann Frederic , Binder Christoph J. , Sage Andrew P. , Mallat Ziad
Published: September 2020

Objective:

NR4A orphan receptors have been well studied in vascular and myeloid cells where they play important roles in the regulation of inflammation in atherosclerosis. NR4A1 (nerve growth factor IB) is among the most highly induced transcription factors in B cells following BCR (B-cell receptor) stimulation. Given that B cells substantially contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, we examined whether NR4A1 regulates B-cell function during atherogenesis.

Approach and Results:

We found that feeding
Ldlr
−/−
mice a Western diet substantially increased
Nr4a1
expression in marginal zone B (MZB) cells compared with follicular B cells. We then generated
Ldlr
−/−
mice with complete B- or specific MZB-cell deletion of
Nr4a1
. Complete B-cell deletion of
Nr4a1
led to increased atherosclerosis, which was accompanied by increased T follicular helper cell–germinal center axis response, as well as increased serum total cholesterol and triglycerides levels. Interestingly, specific MZB-cell deletion of
Nr4a1
increased atherosclerosis in association with an increased T follicular helper–germinal center response but without any impact on serum cholesterol or triglyceride levels.
Nr4a1
−/−
MZB cells showed decreased PDL1 (programmed death ligand-1) expression, which may have contributed to the enhanced T follicular helper response.

Conclusions:

Our findings reveal a previously unsuspected role for NR4A1 in the atheroprotective role of MZB cells.
Exercise Regulates MicroRNAs to Preserve Coronary and Cardiac Function in the Diabetic Heart
Authors: Lew Jason Kar-Sheng , Pearson James T. , Saw Eugene , Tsuchimochi Hirotsugu , Wei Melanie , Ghosh Nilanjan , Du Cheng-Kun , Zhan Dong-Yun , Jin Meihua , Umetani Keiji , Shirai Mikiyasu , Katare Rajesh , Schwenke Daryl O.
Published: September 2020

Rationale:

Diabetic heart disease (DHD) is a debilitating manifestation of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Exercise has been proposed as a potential therapy for DHD, although the effectiveness of exercise in preventing or reversing the progression of DHD remains controversial. Cardiac function is critically dependent on the preservation of coronary vascular function.

Objective:

We aimed to elucidate the effectiveness and mechanisms by which exercise facilitates coronary and cardiac-protection during the onset and progression of DHD.

Methods and Results:

Diabetic db/db and nondiabetic mice, with or without underlying cardiac dysfunction (16 and 8 weeks old, respectively) were subjected to either moderate-intensity exercise or high-intensity exercise for 8 weeks. Subsequently, synchrotron microangiography, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to assess time-dependent changes in cardiac and coronary structure and function associated with diabetes mellitus and exercise and determine whether these changes reflect the observed changes in cardiac-enriched and vascular-enriched microRNAs (miRNAs). We show that, if exercise is initiated from 8 weeks of age, both moderate-intensity exercise and high-intensity exercise prevented the onset of coronary and cardiac dysfunction, apoptosis, fibrosis, microvascular rarefaction, and disruption of miRNA signaling, as seen in the nonexercised diabetic mice. Conversely, the cardiovascular benefits of moderate-intensity exercise were absent if the exercise was initiated after the diabetic mice had already established cardiac dysfunction (ie, from 16 weeks of age). The experimental silencing or upregulation of miRNA-126 activity suggests the mechanism underpinning the cardiovascular benefits of exercise were mediated, at least in part, through tissue-specific miRNAs.

Conclusions:

Our findings provide the first experimental evidence for the critical importance of early exercise intervention in ameliorating the onset and progression of DHD. Our results also suggest that the beneficial effects of exercise are mediated through the normalization of cardiovascular-enriched miRNAs, which are dysregulated in DHD.