bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Overbooking with Capacity Planning: Static Model and Application to Airlines
Authors: He Wen
Published: March 2019

Many firms that practice overbooking are able to adjust capacity prior to the service time. This study proposes an integrated approach for a firm's overbooking and capacity planning. We formulate a static model that simultaneously optimizes the firm's capacity level and overbooking limit. We find that the optimal level of capacity with overbooking can be higher and lower than that without overbooking. This is because overbooking has both positive and negative effects on the marginal value of capacity. It suggests that the level of capacity can be set too low or too high if overbooking is not taken into account when making capacity planning decisions. Moreover, our analysis shows that overbooking leads to a lower optimal capacity level if and only if the marginal cost of capacity is below a threshold. It is also shown that a higher cost per denied service or a higher service level does not necessarily lead to a higher optimal capacity level. We then extend the static model to explicitly account for an airline's demand‐driven dispatch (i.e., reassignments of aircraft types to flight legs). Numerical experiments show that the integrated approach can significantly improve an airline's expected profit, compared to the sequential approach that optimizes capacity planning (aircraft type assignments) and overbooking decisions in two separate and consecutive steps. The benefit of the integrated approach remains significant when a service level constraint is imposed.
A Common Base Answer to the Question “Which Country Is Most Redistributive?”*
Authors: Lambert Peter J. , Nesbakken Runa , Thoresen Thor O.
Published: March 2019

We believe that what most authors have in mind when referring to the “most redistributive country” is a tax and transfer schedule that is most redistributive across all pre‐tax and transfer income distributions. In order to measure each country's tax and transfer redistribution according to the same baseline, we suggest using the transplant‐and‐compare method of Dardanoni and Lambert (2002, Journal of Public Economics 86, 99–122) to establish a common base. The redistributive effects of countries’ tax and transfer schedules are illustrated by employing microdata on eight countries from the Luxembourg Income Study (LIS). Of these eight countries, Finland is found to be the most redistributive country, according to the common base method.
A double‐virally‐inactivated (Intercept–solvent/detergent) human platelet lysate for in vitro expansion of human mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Barro Lassina , Su Yu‐Ting , Nebie Ouada , Wu Yu‐Wen , Huang Yen‐Hua , Koh Mickey BC , Knutson Folke , Burnouf Thierry
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Pooled human platelet lysate (HPL) can replace fetal bovine serum (FBS) as xeno‐free supplement for ex vivo expansion of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). We evaluate here whether a double‐virally‐inactivated HPL (DVI‐HPL) prepared from expired Intercept‐treated platelet concentrates (PCs) and treated by solvent/detergent (S/D) can be used for MSC expansion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Expired Intercept‐treated PCs in 65% platelet (PLT) additive solution were pooled and subjected to a 1% tri‐n‐butyl phosphate/1% Triton X‐45 treatment followed by soybean oil, hydrophobic interaction chromatography purification, and sterile filtration. Bone marrow–derived MSCs (BM‐MSCs) were expanded for four passages in growth medium containing 10% DVI‐HPL, I‐HPL (from Intercept‐PC only), untreated HPL, and FBS. MSC morphology, doubling time, immunophenotype, immunosuppressive activity, and differentiation capacity were compared.

RESULTS

Expanded cells had typical spindle morphology and showed higher viability in all HPL conditions than in FBS. The DVI‐HPL and FBS‐expanded cells were morphologically larger than in I‐HPL and HPL supplements. The cumulative population doubling was lower using DVI‐HPL than with HPL and I‐HPL, but significantly higher than using FBS. Immunophenotype was not affected by the supplements used. Immunosuppressive activity was maintained with all supplements. Differentiation capacity into chondrocytes and osteocytes was more effective in DVI‐HPL but less toward adipocytes compared to other supplements.

CONCLUSIONS

Human PLT lysate made from Intercept‐PCs subjected to S/D treatment may be an alternative to untreated HPL and to I‐HPL for BM‐MSC expansion. This finding reinforces the potential of HPL as a virally safe alternative to FBS for clinical grade MSC expansion protocols.
Some Aspects of the Transonic Compressor Tandem Design
Authors: Hergt Alexander , Grund S. , Klinner J. , Steinert W. , Beversdorff M. , Siller U.
Published: March 2019

For the development of the latest generation of axial compressors, it is necessary to enlarge the design space by using advanced aerodynamic processes. This enables a further increase in efficiency and performance. The use of a tandem blade configuration in a transonic compressor row provides the possibility to enlarge the design space. It is necessary to address the design aspects a bit more in detail in order to efficiently apply this blading concept to turbomachinery. Therefore, in the current study, the known design aspects of tandem blading in compressors will be summed up under the consideration of the aerodynamic effects and construction characteristics of a transonic compressor tandem. Based on this knowledge, a new transonic compressor tandem cascade (DLR TTC) with an inflow Mach number of 0.9 is designed using modern numerical methods and a multi-objective optimization process. Three objective functions as well as three operating points are used in the optimization. Furthermore, both tandem blades and their arrangement are parameterized. From the resulting database of 1246 members, a final best member is chosen as the state-of-the-art design for further detailed investigation. The aim of the ensuing experimental and numerical investigation is to answer the question, whether the tandem cascade resulting from the modern design process fulfills the described design aspects and delivers the requested performance and efficiency criteria. The numerical simulations within the study are carried out with the DLR flow solver TRACE. The experiments are performed at the transonic cascade wind tunnel of DLR in Cologne. The inflow Mach number during the tests is 0.9, and the AVDR is adjusted to 1.3 (design value). Wake measurements with a three-hole probe are carried out in order to determine the cascade performance. The experimental results show an increase in losses and a reduction of the cascade deflection by about 2 deg compared to the design concept. Nevertheless, the experimental and numerical results allow a good understanding of the aerodynamic effects. In addition, planar PIV was applied in a single S1 plane located at midspan to capture the velocity field in the wake of blade 1 in order to analyze the wake flow in detail and describe its influence on the cascade deflection and loss behavior. Finally, an outlook will be given on what future tandem compressor research should be focused.
Numerical Investigation of Turbulence in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Rawat Digvijay S. , Pourquie Mathieu , Poelma Christian
Published: March 2019

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a powerful method to investigate aneurysms. The primary focus of most investigations has been to compute various hemodynamic parameters to assess the risk posed by an aneurysm. Despite the occurrence of transitional flow in aneurysms, turbulence has not received much attention. In this article, we investigate turbulence in the context of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). Since the clinical practice is to diagnose an AAA on the basis of its size, hypothetical axisymmetric geometries of various sizes are constructed. In general, just after the peak systole, a vortex ring is shed from the expansion region of an AAA. As the ring advects downstream, an azimuthal instability sets in and grows in amplitude thereby destabilizing the ring. The eventual breakdown of the vortex ring into smaller vortices leads to turbulent fluctuations. A residence time study is also done to identify blood recirculation zones, as a recirculation region can lead to degradation of the arterial wall. In some of the geometries simulated, the enhanced local mixing due to turbulence does not allow a recirculation zone to form, whereas in other geometries, turbulence had no effect on them. The location and consequence of a recirculation zone suggest that it could develop into an intraluminal thrombus (ILT). Finally, the possible impact of turbulence on the oscillatory shear index (OSI), a hemodynamic parameter, is explored. To conclude, this study highlights how a small change in the geometric aspects of an AAA can lead to a vastly different flow field.
Water Jet Applicator for Interface Tissue Removal in Minimally Invasive Hip Refixation: Testing the Principle and Design of Prototype
Authors: Kraaij Gert , Loeve Arjo J. , Dankelman Jenny , Nelissen Rob G. H. H. , Valstar Edward R.
Published: March 2019

Mechanical loosening of implants is in the majority accompanied with a periprosthetic interface membrane, which has to be removed during revision surgery. The same is true if a minimal invasive (percutaneous) refixation of a loose implant is done. We describe the requirements for a waterjet applicator for interface tissue removal for this percutaneous hip refixation technique. The technical requirements were either obtained from a literature review, a theoretical analysis, or by experimental setup. Based on the requirements, a waterjet applicator is designed which is basically a flexible tube (outer diameter 3 mm) with two channels. One channel for the water supply (diameter 0.9 mm) and one for suction to evacuate water and morcellated interface tissue from the periprosthetic cavity. The applicator has a rigid tip (length 6 mm), which directs the water flow to create two waterjets (diameter 0.2 mm), both focused into the suction channel. The functionality of this new applicator is demonstrated by testing a prototype of the applicator tip in an in vitro experimental setup. This testing has shown that the designed applicator for interface tissue removal will eliminate the risk of water pressure buildup; the ejected water was immediately evacuated from the periprosthetic cavity. Blocking of the suction opening was prevented because the jets cut through interface tissue that gets in front of the suction channel. Although further development of the water applicator is necessary, the presented design of the applicator is suitable for interface tissue removal in a minimally invasive hip refixation procedure.
Numerical Analysis of Subcooled Water Flashing Flow From a Pressurized Water Reactor Steam Generator Through an Abruptly Broken Main Feed Water Pipe
Authors: Jo Jong Chull , Jeong Jae Jun , Yun Byong Jo , Kim Jongkap
Published: March 2019

A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis was performed to investigate the hydraulic response of the flow field inside the pressurized water reactor (PWR) steam generator (SG) secondary side and the connected part of main feed water pipe to an abrupt main feed water line break (FWLB) accident. To realistically analyze the transient flow field situation, the flow field was assumed to be occupied initially by highly compressed subcooled water except that the upper part of the SG secondary side where steam occupied as in the practical case and the break was assumed to occur at the circumferential weld line between the feed water nozzle and the main feed water pipe. This would result in a subcooled water flashing flow from the SG through the short-broken pipe end to the surrounding atmosphere, which was numerically simulated in this study. Typical results of the prediction in terms of the fluid transient velocity and pressure were illustrated and discussed. To examine the physical validity of the present numerical simulation of the subcooled water flashing flow, the transient mass flow rates predicted in this study were compared with the other previous numerical predictions based on the subcooled water nonflashing (no phase change) flow or saturated water flashing flow assumptions and the prediction by a simple analysis method.
Upper Extremity Morel-Lavallée Lesion in a Collegiate Football Player: A Case Report
Authors: Southall Kyle , Price Matt , Wisler Courtney
Published: March 2019

A 20-year-old male collegiate football athlete reported a remarkably swollen elbow after direct contact with the ground. Initial radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging were negative for a fracture and soft tissue structural damage. After 2 weeks of conservative treatment, the athlete had no decrease in swelling and associated symptoms. He was diagnosed with a Morel-Lavallée lesion, later confirmed by diagnostic ultrasound imaging. The lesion was initially treated with compression therapy and cryotherapy to reduce swelling. Upon the final diagnosis the lesion was eventually incised, drained, and packed with iodoform sterile strips. It is hypothesized that many minor Morel-Lavallée cases are under- or misdiagnosed due to overlapping of signs and symptoms with other soft tissue traumas common in athletic populations. The procedures of this case can be utilized to optimize outcomes in future cases. While rare, Morel-Lavallée lesions can occur in athletic activities involving the upper extremity, and not solely crush injuries or traumatic and high-intensity accidents. This knowledge, along with the presented signs and symptoms, can give future healthcare professionals knowledge to include this diagnosis in their working differential diagnosis of injuries with similar presentations.
Comparing the Diagnostic Accuracy of Two Selective Tissue Tests for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Squillantini Rafael , Ringle Brielle , Cavallario Julie
Published: March 2019

Clinical Question: In patients with acute knee injuries, is there evidence to support that the lever sign test is more accurate in diagnosing an anterior cruciate ligament sprain than the Lachman test? Clinical Bottom Line: The evidence does not indicate that the lever sign test can be used in isolation in lieu of the Lachman test, but there is sufficient evidence to support adding the lever sign test to the examination of potential anterior cruciate ligament sprains.
Physicians’ Perceptions of Athletic Trainers
Authors: Hirschhorn Rebecca M. , Holland Cassidy , Hand Amy F. , Mensch James M.
Published: March 2019

The relationship between athletic trainers (ATs) and physicians is crucial for the continuity of care for patients and can impact the advancement of the athletic training profession. This descriptive study utilized a questionnaire to examine the level of competence physicians believe ATs possess to perform tasks within their scope of practice, as outlined in the Role Delineation Study, 6th ed. Overall, physicians had favorable perceptions of ATs’ competence, with the most favorable perceptions relating to injury/illness prevention and immediate and emergency care. Opportunities should be sought out by ATs to educate physicians on all domains of athletic training practice. Future research should examine how these perceptions may change as athletic training education requirements change.
Professional Rugby Coaches’ Perceptions of the Role of the Team Captain
Authors: Cotterill Stewart , Cheetham Richard , Fransen Katrien
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of the coach in relation to the perceived function of captains in professional rugby union. Participants were 8 elite male rugby coaches purposely sampled for this study. Participants were interviewed individually to gain an understanding of their experiences and perceptions of the role of the captain. The data were thematically analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Ten superordinate themes emerged in the study: types of captain, captain development, challenges, captains role, off-field responsibilities, nature of the job, selection, cultural architects, coach–captain relationship, and key attributes. Results suggest that coaches view the captain as an extension of their authority in the team, leadership groups are increasingly important to support captains, and the criteria for the selection of captains are still vague. As a result, future research should explore the development of specific evidence-based approaches to captain selection and development.
A Mental Warm-Up for Athletes
Authors: Brewer Britton W. , Haznadar Adisa , Katz Dylan , Van Raalte Judy L. , Petitpas Albert J.
Published: March 2019

The purpose of this research was to develop and evaluate a 5-min structured mental warm-up involving aspects of goal setting, imagery, arousal regulation, and positive self-talk. Results of a study that featured a pretest–posttest design with 101 male youth soccer players (Study 1) and a study that featured a repeated-measures experimental design with 29 female intercollegiate soccer players (Study 2) indicated that executing the mental warm-up was associated with significantly greater readiness to perform and to use mental skills to enhance performance. In Study 3, 30 male high school soccer players used the mental warm-up daily over a competitive season and rated it as acceptable (albeit less so than their physical warm-up) at the beginning, in the middle, and at the end of the season. The findings suggest that a mental warm-up is both acceptable to athletes and potentially useful in helping them prepare for training and competition.
Dephosphorylation of protamine 2 at serine 56 is crucial for murine sperm maturation in vivo
Authors: Itoh Katsuhiko , Kondoh Gen , Miyachi Hitoshi , Sugai Manabu , Kaneko Yoshiyuki , Kitano Satsuki , Watanabe Hitomi , Maeda Ryota , Imura Akihiro , Liu Yu , Ito Chizuru , Itohara Shigeyoshi , Toshimori Kiyotaka , Fujita Jun
Published: March 2019

Sperm maturation requires keeping protamine 2 dephosphorylated to enable tight DNA packaging.
How to interpret urine toxicology tests
Authors: Dyer Emma M , Salehian Sormeh
Published: March 2019

A 13-year-old girl presents to the emergency department for the second time with an unresponsive episode. She has a GCS (Glasgow Coma Scale) score of 11 on arrival and all other observations are normal. The story is unclear, but there are ongoing safeguarding concerns and the family are known to social services. All investigations are normal. After a period of observation on the ward, her GCS returns to normal and she appears well. Both on the first presentation and this presentation ingestion of a toxin was suspected. However, this was denied by the patient and urine toxicology screen was negative. Does this rule out toxin ingestion? Will this change your management?
Giant cell tumour of the middle phalanx of the middle finger
Authors: Adulkasem Nath , Pruksakorn Dumnoensun
Published: March 2019

Giant cell tumour (GCT) of bones in the hand is very rare, only 2% of all hand tumours, but unacceptably high recurrence rates (up to 90%) have been reported by several authors. Diagnosis can be challenging due to its rarity and enchondroma-mimicking characteristics. We report on a case of GCT of the middle phalanx of the left middle finger in a 49-year-old woman who underwent middle phalanx resection and reconstruction with bone grafting. At the 1-year follow-up, no evidence of recurrence was detected and the patient was pain-free.
National Eye Survey of Trinidad and Tobago (NESTT): prevalence, causes and risk factors for presenting vision impairment in adults over 40 years
Authors: Braithwaite Tasanee , Verlander Nevile Q , Peto Tunde , Bartholomew Debra , Deomansingh Frank , Bridgemohan Petra , Saei Ayoub , Sharma Subash , Singh Deo , Ramsewak Samuel S , Bourne Rupert R A
Published: March 2019

Aim

To estimate the prevalence, causes and risk factors for presenting distance and near vision impairment (VI) in Trinidad and Tobago.

Methods

This is a national, population-based survey using multistage, cluster random sampling in 120 clusters with probability-proportionate-to-size methods. Stage 1 included standardised, community-based measurement of visual acuity. Stage 2 invited all 4263 people aged ≥40 years for comprehensive clinic-based assessment. The Moorfields Eye Hospital Reading Centre graded fundus photographs and optical coherence tomography images independently.

Results

The response rates were 84.2% (n=3589) (stage 1) and 65.4% (n=2790) (stage 2), including 97.1% with VI. The mean age was 57.2 (SD 11.9) years, 54.5% were female, 42.6% were of African descent and 39.0% were of South Asian descent. 11.88% (95% CI 10.88 to 12.97, n=468) had distance VI (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] >0.30), including blindness (logMAR >1.30) in 0.73% (95% CI 0.48 to 0.97, n=31), after adjustment for study design, non-response, age, sex and municipality. The leading causes of blindness included glaucoma (31.7%, 95% CI 18.7 to 44.8), cataract (28.8%, 95% CI 12.6 to 45.1) and diabetic retinopathy (19.1%, 95% CI 4.2 to 34.0). The leading cause of distance VI was uncorrected refractive error (47.4%, 95% CI 43.4 to 51.3). Potentially avoidable VI accounted for 86.1% (95% CI 82.88 to 88.81), an estimated 176 323 cases in the national population aged ≥40 years. 22.3% (95% CI 20.7 to 23.8, n=695) had uncorrected near VI (logMAR >0.30 at 40 cm with distance acuity <0.30). Significant independent associations with distance VI included increasing age, diagnosed diabetes and unemployment. Significant independent associations with near VI included male sex, no health insurance and unemployment.

Conclusions

Trinidad and Tobago’s burden of avoidable VI exceeds that of other high-income countries. Population and health system priorities are identified to help close the gap.
Comparison of endothelial function and sympathetic nervous system activity along the glucose continuum in individuals with differing metabolic risk profiles and low dietary sodium intake
Authors: Baqar Sara , Straznicky Nora E , Lambert Gavin , Kong Yee Wen , Dixon John B , Jerums George , Ekinci Elif Ilhan , Lambert Elisabeth
Published: March 2019

Objective: Low sodium intake may trigger sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation and endothelial dysfunction. Studies have not explored these associations along the glucose continuum. Accordingly, we compared endothelial function and SNS activity in individuals with low sodium intake and differing categories of metabolic risk along the glucose continuum. We hypothesized that low sodium intake is associated with (1) impairment of endothelial function and (2) higher SNS activity in individuals with higher metabolic risk. Research Design and Methods: In this prospective observational study, participants (n=54) with low sodium intake (single 24 hours urine sodium excretion <150 mmol/24 hours) were categorized based on oral glucose tolerance testing as: normal glucose tolerance (NGT, n=10), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT, n=15), treatment naive type 2 diabetes (T2D−) (n=12) or treated type 2 diabetes (T2D+) (n=17). We assessed endothelial function using pulse amplitude tonometry (PAT) derived reactive hyperemic index and PAT ratio; arterial stiffness via augmentation index; muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) using microneurography; cardiac baroreflex; heart rate; blood pressure; glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and lipid profile. Results: Mean (SD) sodium excretion was 110.6 (26) mmol/24 hours. Compared with NGT, IGT and T2D−, the T2D+ group had lower MSNA (p=0.005), PAT ratio (p=0.04) and baroreflex sensitivity (p=0.0002) and an augmented heart rate (p=0.02). The T2D+ group had appropriate mean (SD) glycemic (HbA1c 7.2 (1.72)%), total cholesterol (4.2 (1.0) mmol/L), low-density lipoprotein (2.2 (1.0) mmol/L) and blood pressure (systolic 136 (13), diastolic 78 (12)) (mm Hg) control. Conclusions: Individuals with T2D+ have impaired endothelial and baroreflex function, despite low sodium intake, appropriately managed cardiometabolic risk factors and lower SNS activity, compared with others along the glucose continuum. Whether low sodium intake is associated with modulation of the sympathovascular profile in T2D requires further investigation.
Tsallis agegraphic dark energy model
Authors: Zadeh M. Abdollahi , Sheykhi A. , Moradpour H.
Published: March 2019

Using the non-extensive Tsallis entropy and the holographic hypothesis, we propose a new dark energy (DE) model with timescale as infrared (IR) cutoff. Considering the age of the Universe as well as the conformal time as IR cutoffs, we investigate the cosmological consequences of the proposed DE models and study the evolution of the Universe filled by a pressureless matter and the obtained DE candidates. We find that although this model can describe the late time acceleration and the density, deceleration and the equation of state parameters show satisfactory behavior by themselves, these models are classically unstable unless the interaction between the two dark sectors of the Universe is taken into account. In addition, the results of the existence of a mutual interaction between the cosmos sectors are also addressed. We find out that the interacting models are stable at the classical level which is in contrast to the original interacting agegraphic dark energy models which are classically unstable [K. Y. Kim, H. W. Lee and Y. S. Myung, Phys. Lett. B 660, 118 (2008)].
Production of light flavored charged hadron in pp collisions at 900 GeV with hadron production models
Authors: Ajaz M. , Tufail M. , Ali Y.
Published: March 2019

Differential yields of light flavored charged hadrons in [Formula: see text] collision at 0.9 TeV in the transverse momentum [Formula: see text] ranging from 0.1–2.5 GeV/c with pseudorapidity [Formula: see text] are presented here. The spectra obtained by Monte Carlo simulations with event generators — EPOS 1.99, EPOS-LHC, QGSJETII-04 and Sibyll2.3c — are compared with the ALICE measurements. For [Formula: see text] mesons, EPOS1.99, EPOS-LHC and QGSJETII-04 described the ALICE measurement very well almost in the entire [Formula: see text] range except QGSJETII-04 which underpredicts with [Formula: see text] below 0.4 GeV/c. The Sibyll2.3c model slightly overpredicts for [Formula: see text] GeV/c and underpredicts afterwards. For [Formula: see text] mesons, all models describe the experimental data qualitatively, except at high [Formula: see text], where the models slightly underpredict. The EPOS-LHC and QGSJETII-04 models, at low [Formula: see text], describe the distribution of the experimental measurements very well in both cases of protons and anti-protons, whereas the former underpredicts and the latter overpredicts at higher [Formula: see text]. The EPOS1.99 overpredicts at low [Formula: see text] below 1 GeV/c, whereas it reproduces the results well above it. Sibyll2.3c overpredicts the distribution over the entire range of [Formula: see text]. Models described the average transverse momentum [Formula: see text] of these hadron species as a function of their mass, showing small rise in the average [Formula: see text] with the mass of the particles. The same has been observed by the STAR collaboration with measurements in [Formula: see text] reactions at [Formula: see text] = 200 GeV and also in [Formula: see text] collisions at [Formula: see text] = 900 GeV.
Diagnosing Tsallis holographic dark energy models with statefinder and ω − ω′ pair
Authors: Sharma Umesh Kumar , Pradhan Anirudh
Published: March 2019

A useful method, known as statefinder diagnostic, which may differentiate one dark energy (DE) model from others is applied in this work to a holographic dark energy (HDE) model from Tsallis entropy, called the Tsallis holographic dark energy (THDE) model. The evolutionary trajectories of this model are plotted in the statefinder parameter — planes and [Formula: see text] plane, and it is observed that the parameter [Formula: see text] of this model plays a magnificent role from the statefinder and [Formula: see text] plane viewpoints. Eventually, the evolutionary trajectories are plotted considering two different values of THDE energy density ([Formula: see text]), [Formula: see text], in the light of Planck 2018 results VI base-LCDM cosmology and [Formula: see text], in the light of SNe + BAO + OHD + CMB observation data.
Electromagnetic Casimir effect of concentric cylinders in (D + 1)-dimensional space–time
Authors: Chew Chun Yong , Goh Yong Kheng
Published: March 2019

We study the electromagnetic Casimir interaction energy between two parallel concentric cylinders in [Formula: see text]-dimensional Minkowski space–time for different combinations of perfectly conducting boundary condition and infinitely permeable boundary condition. We consider two cases where one cylinder is outside each other and where one is inside the other. By solving the equation of motion and computing the TGTG formulas, explicit formulas for the Casimir interaction energy can be derived and asymptotic behavior of the Casimir interaction energy in the nanoregime is calculated by using perturbation technique. We computed the interaction energy analytically up to next-to-leading order term.
Dual-function splitting of the embedded grating with connecting layer
Authors: Zhu Wenhua , Wang Bo , Gao Chenhao , Wen Kunhua , Meng Ziming , Wang Qu , Xing Xiangjun , Chen Li , Lei Liang , Zhou Jinyun
Published: March 2019

We design and optimize the embedded dual-function grating with connecting layer in Littrow mounting. By using modal method and rigorous coupled-wave analysis, grating parameters are analyzed and calculated including grating groove depth, thickness of connecting layer, and so on. The grating device can diffract the transverse electric-polarized plane light mainly in the first-diffractive order with high-diffraction efficiency of 98.36%. Meanwhile, for the transverse magnetic-polarized plane light, the diffraction efficiencies in the zeroth-order and the first-order corresponding to 49.34% and 49.29% are obtained, respectively.
In memory: Prof. Raj K. Gupta (1938–2019)
Authors: Balasubramaniam M. , Stoecker H.
Published: March 2019

On January 26, 2019, we lost one of the eminent nuclear theorist Prof. Raj Kumar Gupta, Emeritus Professor of Panjab University, Chandigarh, India. He breathed his last at 2 am in the early morning of 26th, due to sudden health ailments. He was a great and renowned scholar, fatherly figure to many of his students, kind-hearted person to his colleagues and friends.
Spin-Orbit Interactions in Semiconductor Quantum Ring in the Presence of Magnetic Field
Authors: Baran A. V. , Kudryashov V. V.
Published: March 2019

Energy levels of electrons in the semiconductor circular quantum ring are obtained within the framework of perturbation theory in the presence of the Rashba and Dresselhaus spin-orbit interactions and external uniform constant magnetic field. The confinement effect is simulated by the realistic potential well of a finite depth.
Comprehensive investigation of structural, dielectric and local piezoelectric properties of KNN ceramics
Authors: Kumari Poonam , Lal Madan , Kumar Sunil , Rai Radheshyam , Singh Anupinder , Karpinsky D. V. , Bdikin Igor
Published: March 2019

In this research paper, we utilized the traditional high-temperature solid-state reaction method to fabricate the K[Formula: see text]Na[Formula: see text]NbO3, K[Formula: see text]Na[Formula: see text]NbO3 and K[Formula: see text]Na[Formula: see text]NbO3 (abbreviated as KNN-1, KNN-2, and KNN-3, respectively) lead-free ion deficient ceramics for understanding the influence of ionic deficiency on the crystalline structure and dielectric/piezoelectric properties of the samples. X-ray diffraction patterns of these samples exhibited a perovskite tetragonal phase. Dielectric anomalies around 287∘C and 471∘C were identified as ferroelectric to ferroelectric and ferroelectric to paraelectric-transition temperatures for KNN-2 at 1[Formula: see text]kHz. It was found that the composition KNN-2 exhibit relatively high Curie temperature i.e., 471∘C. The conductivity plots confirm that the activation energies are frequency-dependent. The impedance behavior in our ceramic samples can be analyzed with the bulk/grain effect. The slope of [Formula: see text] with temperature shows negative temperature coefficient of resistance (NTCR) type behavior in proposed KNN ceramics material.
Auditory Display for Telerobotic Transnasal Surgery Using a Continuum Robot
Authors: Black David , Lilge Sven , Fellmann Carolin , Reinschluessel Anke V. , Kreuer Lars , Nabavi Arya , Hahn Horst K. , Kikinis Ron , Burgner-Kahrs Jessica
Published: March 2019

Tubular continuum robots can follow complex curvilinear paths to reach restricted areas within the body. Using teleoperation, these robots can help minimize incisions and reduce trauma. However, drawbacks include the lack of haptic feedback and a limited view of the situs, often due to camera occlusion. This work presents novel auditory display to enhance interaction with such continuum robots to increase accuracy and path-following efficiency and reduce cognitive workload. We recreate a typical use case with a test environment that simulates a transnasal intervention through the sphenoidal sinus including a simulated continuum robot. Distance information is mapped to changes in a real-time audio synthesizer using sung voice to provide navigation cues. User studies with novice participants and clinicians were performed to evaluate the effects of auditory display on accuracy, task time, path following efficiency, subjective workload, and usability. When using auditory display, participants exhibit significant increase in accuracy, efficiency, and task time compared to visual-only display. Auditory display reduced subjective workload and raised usefulness and satisfaction ratings. The addition of auditory display for augmenting interaction with a teleoperated continuum robot has shown to benefit performance as well as usability. The method could benefit other scenarios in navigated surgery to increase accuracy and reduce workload.
Stability and Bifurcation of a Prey-Predator-Scavenger Model in the Existence of Toxicant and Harvesting
Authors: Abdul Satar Huda , Naji Raid Kamel
Published: March 2019

In this paper a prey-predator-scavenger food web model is proposed and studied. It is assumed that the model considered the effect of harvesting and all the species are infected by some toxicants released by some other species. The stability analysis of all possible equilibrium points is discussed. The persistence conditions of the system are established. The occurrence of local bifurcation around the equilibrium points is investigated. Numerical simulation is used and the obtained solution curves are drawn to illustrate the results of the model. Finally, the nonexistence of periodic dynamics is discussed analytically as well as numerically.
GASC1 Promotes Stemness of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma via NOTCH1 Promoter Demethylation
Authors: Jia Ruinuo , Yang Li , Yuan Xiang , Kong Jinyu , Liu Yiwen , Yin Weijiao , Gao Shegan , Zhang Yi
Published: March 2019

The highest incidence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) occurs in China. Cancer stem cells play key roles for tumor progression. Gene amplified in squamous cell carcinoma 1 (GASC1) is essential to maintain self-renewal and differentiation potential of embryonic stem cells. This study aimed to reveal the effect and mechanism of GASC1 on ESCC stemness. The biological function of GASC1 in ESCC was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. ChIP assay was performed to determine the molecular mechanism of GASC1 in epigenetic regulation of NOTCH1. We found that GASC1 expression was increased in poor differentiated ESCC cells and tissues. ESCC patients with a high level of GASC1 presented a significantly worse survival rate. GASC1 expression in purified ALDH+ ESCC cells was significantly higher than that in ALDH- cells. The stemness of ESCC was dramatically decreased after GASC1 blockade. Furthermore, blockade of GASC1 decreased NOTCH1 expression via increase of NOTCH1 promoter H3K9me2 and H3K9me3. Moreover, the impaired stemness after blockade of GASC1 could be reversed after transfection of NOTCH1 overexpression lentiviral vector. GASC1 promoted stemness in ESCC cells via NOTCH1 promoter demethylation. Therefore, GASC1/NOTCH1 signaling might be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of ESCC patients.
Recent Progress of Graphene-Based Photoelectrode Materials for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Patil Kaustubh , Rashidi Soheil , Wang Hui , Wei Wei
Published: March 2019

Graphite with a single atomic layer known as graphene shows great capability in energy conversion and storage devices. Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have attracted intense interests due to offering high photo-to-electric conversion efficiencies. DSSCs are built from a photoelectrode (a dye-sensitized nanocrystalline semiconductor), an electrolyte with redox couples, and a counterelectrode. In this review article, we outline the strategies to enhance the efficiency and reduce the cost by introducing graphene into the DSSCs as the photoelectrode. First, the development of DSSCs and the properties of graphene are briefly described. Then, the applications of graphene-based materials for photoelectrodes (transparent electrode, semiconductor layer, and dye sensitizer) in DSSCs are deeply discussed. Finally, an outlook for graphene materials in DSSCs is provided.
Redox Status and Muscle Pathology in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Insights from Various Rat Hindlimb Muscles
Authors: Oyenihi A. B. , Ollewagen T. , Myburgh K. H. , Powrie Y. S. L. , Smith C.
Published: March 2019

Due to atrophy, muscle weakness is a common occurrence in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The majority of human studies are conducted on the vastus lateralis muscle—a muscle with mixed fiber type—but little comparative data between multiple muscles in either rodent or human models are available. The current study therefore assessed both muscle ultrastructure and selected redox indicators across various muscles in a model of collagen-induced rheumatoid arthritis in female Sprague-Dawley rats. Only three muscles, the gastrocnemius, extensor digitorum longus (EDL), and soleus, had lower muscle mass (38%, 27%, and 25% loss of muscle mass, respectively; all at least P<0.01), while the vastus lateralis muscle mass was increased by 35% (P<0.01) in RA animals when compared to non-RA controls. However, all four muscles exhibited signs of deterioration indicative of rheumatoid cachexia. Cross-sectional area was similarly reduced in gastrocnemius, EDL, and soleus (60%, 58%, and 64%, respectively; all P<0.001), but vastus lateralis (22% smaller, P<0.05) was less affected, while collagen deposition was significantly increased in muscles. This pathology was associated with significant increases in tissue levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in all muscles except the vastus lateralis, while only the gastrocnemius had significantly increased levels of lipid peroxidation (TBARS) and antioxidant activity (FRAP). Current data illustrates the differential responses of different skeletal muscles of the hindlimb to a chronic inflammatory challenge both in terms of redox changes and resistance to cachexia.
Effect Analysis of Optical Masking Algorithm for GEO Space Debris Detection
Authors: Kong Sijie , Zhou Jin , Ma Wenli
Published: March 2019

A method with high detection rate, low false-alarm rate, and low computational cost is presented for removing stars and noise and detecting space debris with signal-to-noise ratio (SNR>3) in consecutive raw frames. The top-hat transformation is implemented firstly to remove background, then a masking technique is proposed to remove stars, and finally, a weighted algorithm is used to detect the pieces of space debris. The simulation samples are images taken by 600 mm ground-based telescope. And a series of simulation targets are added to the image in order to test the detection rate and false-alarm rate of different SNRs. The telescope in this paper is worked in “staring target mode.” The experimental results show that the proposed method can detect space debris effectively with low false-alarm by only three frames. When the SNR is higher than 3, the detection probability can reach 94%, and the false-alarm rate is below 2%. The running time of this algorithm is within 1 second. Additionally, algorithm performance tests in different regions are also carried out. A large set of image sequences are tested, which proves the stableness and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Persistent Upbeat Positional Nystagmus in a Patient with Bilateral Posterior Canal Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Ichimura Akihide , Itani Shigeto
Published: March 2019

Here, we report a patient with persistent positional upbeat nystagmus in a straight supine position with no evident abnormal central nervous system findings. A 43-year-old woman with rotatory positional vertigo and nausea visited our clinic 7 days after the onset. Initially, we observed persistent upbeat nystagmus in straight supine position with a latency of 2 s during the supine head roll test. However, an upbeat nystagmus disappeared on turning from straight to the left ear-down supine position, and while turning from the left to right ear-down position, an induced slight torsional nystagmus towards the right for >22 s was observed. In the Dix–Hallpike test, the left head-hanging position provoked torsional nystagmus towards the right for 50 s. In prone seated position, downbeat nystagmus with torsional component towards the left was observed for 45 s. Neurological examination and brain computed tomography revealed no abnormal findings. We speculated that persistent positional upbeat nystagmus in this patient was the result of canalolithiasis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo of bilateral posterior semicircular canals.
Prognostic Value of 18F-Fluorocholine PET Parameters in Metastatic Castrate-Resistant Prostate Cancer Patients Treated with Docetaxel
Authors: Quaquarini E. , D’Ambrosio D. , Sottotetti F. , Gallivanone F. , Hodolic M. , Baiardi P. , Palumbo R. , Vellani C. , Canevari C. , Bernardo A. , Castiglioni I. , Porta C. , Trifirò G.
Published: March 2019

Background and Aim. The availability of new treatments for metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients increases the need for reliable biomarkers to help clinicians to choose the better sequence strategy. The aim of the present retrospective and observational work is to investigate the prognostic value of 18F-fluorocholine (18F-FCH) positron emission tomography (PET) parameters in mCRPC. Materials and Methods. Between March 2013 and August 2016, 29 patients with mCRPC were included. They all received three-weekly docetaxel after androgen deprivation therapy, and they underwent 18F-FCH PET/computed tomography (CT) before and after the therapy. Semi-quantitative indices such as maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), mean standardized uptake value (SUVmean) with partial volume effect (PVC-SUV) correction, metabolically active tumour volume (MATV), and total lesion activity (TLA) with partial volume effect (PVC-TLA) correction were measured both in pre-treatment and post-treatment 18F-FCH PET/CT scans for each lesion. Whole-body indices were calculated as sum of values measured for each lesion (SSUVmax, SPVC-SUV, SMATV, and STLA). Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were considered as clinical endpoints. Univariate and multivariate hazard ratios for whole-body 18F-FCH PET indices were performed, and p<0.05 was considered as significant. Results. Cox regression analysis showed a statistically significant correlation between PFS, SMATV, and STLA. No correlations between OS and 18F-FCH PET parameters were defined probably due to the small sample size. Conclusions. Semi-quantitative indices such as SMATV and STLA at baseline have a prognostic role in patients treated with docetaxel for mCRPC, suggesting a potential role of 18F-FCH PET/CT imaging in clinical decision-making.
Study of the Effect of Newly Calculated Phase Space Factor on β-Decay Half-Lives
Authors: Ishfaq Mavra , Nabi Jameel-Un , Niţescu Ovidiu , Mirea Mihail , Stoica Sabin
Published: March 2019

We present results for β-decay half-lives based on a new recipe for calculation of phase space factors recently introduced. Our study includes fp-shell and heavier nuclei of experimental and astrophysical interests. The investigation of the kinematics of some β-decay half-lives is presented, and new phase space factor values are compared with those obtained with previous theoretical approximations. Accurate calculation of nuclear matrix elements is a prerequisite for reliable computation of β-decay half-lives and is not the subject of this paper. This paper explores if improvements in calculating the β-decay half-lives can be obtained when using a given set of nuclear matrix elements and employing the new values of the phase space factors. Although the largest uncertainty in half-lives computations come from the nuclear matrix elements, introduction of the new values of the phase space factors may improve the comparison with experiment. The new half-lives are systematically larger than previous calculations and may have interesting consequences for calculation of stellar rates.
Cost Analysis of Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for the Treatment of Colorectal Lesions in China
Authors: Cui Ning , Zhao Yu , Yu Honggang
Published: March 2019

Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate costs associated with colonic endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for treatment of colorectal cancer. Methods. The study is a retrospective analysis of data on 395 patients treated by colonic ESD. Results. The operation, consumable items, and medication accounted for 71% of the total costs for colonic ESD treatment. Medication and consumable items’ costs were higher if lesions occurred in the transverse colon and right hemicolon compared to the left hemicolon. Medication, consumable items, and total costs were higher for larger lesions. Lesion numbers and carcinoma were associated with higher medication, consumable items, operation, and total costs. Positive surgical margins and complications of hemorrhage or perforation were positively correlated with higher costs for medication, consumable items, and total costs. Conclusion. Labor costs for doctors and nurses remain low in China. Costs for medication and consumable items were higher for treatment involving the transverse colon or right hemicolon (vs. the left hemicolon), larger lesions, carcinoma, and a positive surgical margin. A benchmark cost estimate for ESD treatment including 4 days of postoperative hospitalization was determined to be approximately 5400 USD.
On Third-Order Linear Recurrent Functions
Authors: Magnani Kodjo Essonana
Published: March 2019

A function ψ:R→R is said to be a Tribonacci function with period p if ψ(x+3p)=ψ(x+2p)+ψ(x+p)+ψ(x), for all x∈R. In this paper, we present some properties on the Tribonacci functions with period p. We show that if ψ is a Tribonacci function with period p, then limx→∞ψ(x+p)/ψ(x)=β, where β is the root of the equation x3-x2-x-1=0 such that 1<β<2.