bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responsibility for Child and Elderly Care: Who Should Cover the Costs? A Comparison of Baltic and Nordic Countries
Authors: García‐Faroldi Livia , de Miguel‐Luken Verónica , Ayuso Luis
Published: June 2017

Baltic and Nordic countries share historical and political connections as well as geographical proximity. Nevertheless, when their welfare regimes are compared, Baltic countries can be included in a post‐communist model that differs from the social‐democratic model of Nordic countries in many respects. This article focuses on one of these aspects, the opinion expressed towards the financial responsibility for the care of children and the elderly. In particular, childcare policies have been used to explain the development of a dual earner/dual career model in Nordic countries. Nevertheless, full‐time employment of women is widespread in Baltic countries too, although family policies and attitudes strongly differ from Nordic ones. Using data from the International Social Survey Programme (2012), we compare public attitudes towards who should cover the costs of caring in five Nordic countries (Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland and Denmark) and two Baltic ones (Latvia and Lithuania). We find remarkable differences between both groups of nations: citizens from Baltic countries consider the role of the family more important than their counterparts in Nordic countries. Results show Latvians holding the most familistic views in terms of covering costs, and Swedish people the least. Individual socio‐demographic variables are less important than national contexts in explaining these attitudes. We find important variations among the social‐democratic countries and, surprisingly, in the case of childcare, Sweden shows higher differences to Denmark than to Latvia and Lithuania. This finding suggests that the social‐democratic bloc in this respect is more heterogeneous than what is generally thought.
Back to Basics – Literacy Proficiency, Immigration and Labour Market Outcomes in Sweden
Authors: Bussi Margherita , Pareliussen Jon
Published: June 2017

We explore how education, literacy skills and migrant origin affect employment and over‐qualification mismatch, using a simple model of human capital, standard regression methods and data from the OECD Survey of Adult Skills (PIAAC). Sweden is an interesting case, as a compressed wage distribution makes thresholds to enter the labour market high for those with low education and low skills. Skill and education levels are high among the native‐born. At the same time, the high influx of humanitarian and family reunion migrants, who are on average less educated and less skilled than natives, increases the supply of low‐skilled labour. We find that substantial employment penalties all but disappear when controlling for migrants’ lower literacy proficiency. In contrast, the high incidence of over‐qualification mismatch among immigrants is little sensitive to literacy proficiency and demographic profiles. However, having participated in education and training activities in Sweden improves matching considerably, in particular if such activities are manifested in formal qualifications.
Persistent hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) associated with passive acquisition of anti‐D in maternal breast milk
Authors: Li Marissa , Blaustein John C.
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Anti‐D is a well‐documented, significant cause of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN), but its presence in breast milk is not routinely described. Theoretically, breast milk containing anti‐D could have the potential to exacerbate HDFN if ingested by the affected infant.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This is a case report of a 28‐week premature male neonate with hydrops fetalis born to a 32‐year‐old woman (gravidity 3/parity 3) with anti‐D and anti‐G. The male neonate experienced prolonged HDFN due to passive acquisition of anti‐D in the mother's breast milk.

RESULTS

The mother's breast milk reacted strongly (4+) with the D‐positive cells in the antibody screen test. Discontinuation of breast milk feeding and addition of total parenteral nutrition led to the cessation of clinically significant HDFN.

CONCLUSION

Although anti‐D is a significant cause of HDFN through placental transfer of antibody, exacerbation of the condition through breast milk antibodies is rarely described. The current case highlights the possibility of this occurring. Discontinuation of maternal breast milk feedings should be considered in infants with HDFN who do not respond to standard treatment.
Influence of plerixafor on the mobilization of CD34+ cell subpopulations and lymphocyte subtypes
Authors: Worel Nina , Frank Nelli , Frech Christian , Fritsch Gerhard
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Peripheral blood stem cells mobilized with granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) with or without chemotherapy are routinely used for autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation. Plerixafor, a chemokine‐receptor inhibitor, increases the amount of circulating CD34+ cells and improves harvest results. However, limited information is available regarding the composition of apheresis products with respect to CD34+ and lymphocyte subtypes collected after various mobilization regimens.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We used a recently established single‐platform multicolor flow‐cytometric analysis including CD45RA and CD133 to define CD34+ subpopulations and lymphocyte subsets in products obtained either after G‐CSF with or without chemotherapy alone (G, n = 40) or with addition of plerixafor (GP, n = 40).

RESULTS

Absolute numbers of white blood cells and lymphocyte subtypes were significantly higher after plerixafor, which was not observed for absolute CD34+ counts. However, distinct differences in terms of CD34+ subtypes were observed. The most primitive multipotent progenitors (CD45RA–CD133+CD34+CD38low) predominated significantly after G (median, 49.2%; range, 15.2%‐63%) compared to GP (median, 34.4%; range, 12%‐62%; p < 0.001), whereas more differentiated subsets clearly prevailed after GP.

CONCLUSION

In contrast to the findings of other authors, our study shows a clear shift toward more committed CD34+ subsets after plerixafor in poor mobilizers and elucidates the importance of informative surface markers like CD45RA and CD133 in addition to CD38 to discriminate earlier from more committed CD34+ cells. Further studies are needed to analyze whether these findings have an impact on clinical outcome.
Hematologic RIs for healthy water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in southern Mexico
Authors: Torres‐Chable Oswaldo M. , Ojeda‐ Robertos Nadia F. , Chay‐Canul Alfonso J. , Peralta‐Torres Jorge A. , Luna‐Palomera Carlos , Brindis‐Vazquez Nahum , Blitvich Bradley J. , Machain‐Williams Carlos , Garcia‐Rejon Julian E. , Baak‐Baak Carlos M. , Dorman Karin S. , Alegria‐Lopez Miguel A.
Published: June 2017

Background

Baseline hematologic data are used by veterinarians and wildlife biologists to perform health assessments on target animal species. Hematologic measurements are influenced by various factors including geography. Baseline hematologic RIs have been established for domestic water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) from various countries in the Eastern Hemisphere, but these data are not readily available for the Western Hemisphere.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine hematologic values for domestic water buffaloes from several commercial farms in southern Mexico.

Methods

Blood was collected from 126 healthy, postlactating females (3 to 10 years old) from the Murrah breed, and 10 hematologic variables were measured.

Results

Means, SDs, RIs, medians (MED), median absolute deviations (MAD), and other statistics were calculated for each hematologic variable. The MED (and MAD) for each variable are as follows: RBC count, 7.6 (1.1) × 1012/L; hemoglobin, 116.0 (13.3) g/L; PCV, 41.5 (7.6) %; MCV, 56.8 (7.0) fL; MCH, 14.6 (1.6) pg; MCHC, 250.0 (35.6) g/L; RDW (SD), 29.7 (5.5) fL; RDW (CV), 18.2 (1.4) %; reticulocytes, 0.0 (0.0) %, and WBC count, 12.4 (1.3) × 109/L. These values were compared to those previously reported for water buffaloes from several countries in the Eastern Hemisphere and, on most occasions, they differed significantly.

Conclusions

Our data can be used by veterinarians and other personnel involved in buffalo production in Mexico during medical evaluations.
Effect of time and temperature on anticoagulant‐dependent pseudothrombocytopenia in Göttingen minipigs
Authors: Erkens Tim , Van den Sande Liesbeth , Witters Jill , Verbraeken Filip , Looszova Adriana , Feyen Bianca
Published: June 2017

Background

A marked decrease in thrombocyte count was observed between subsequent measurements of the sameEDTAblood sample in several minipigs, but little information was available explaining this finding.

Objectives

The objective was to evaluate the impact of several preanalytic variables on thrombocyte counts in minipigs, in order to improve understanding of the in vitro thrombocyte decrease observed.

Materials and Methods

Hematology blood samples from male and female Göttingen minipigs were collected usingEDTAor citrate as an anticoagulant. Samples were stored under different conditions (room temperature, 4°C, or 37–38°C) and were analyzed approximately 0.5 to one h, 3.5–4 h, 7–7.5 h, and 28–29 h after collection.

Results

InEDTAblood samples from male minipigs stored at room temperature, there was a progressive thrombocyte decrease over time up to −71% after 29 h, caused by in vitro aggregation. In females, no consistent change was seen up to 7.5 h, but there was a decrease up to −47% after 29 h. Thrombocyte count was most stable during storage at 4°C. No consistent marked decrease in thrombocyte counts was seen for citrated blood at room temperature, although such a decrease was present in a few individual animals.

Conclusions

Study results provide evidence for an anticoagulant‐dependent pseudothrombocytopenia in minipigs progressing over time and depending on the storage temperature of the blood sample. It is therefore recommended to perform thrombocyte counts as soon as possible after blood collection, and in case of low counts, investigate for the presence of artifactual platelet clumping.
The cost of transfusing a unit of red blood cells: a costing model for Canadian hospital use
Authors: Lagerquist O. , Poseluzny D. , Werstiuk G. , Slomp J. , Maier M. , Nahirniak S. , Clarke G.
Published: June 2017

Background

No direct and thorough accounting of costs related to packed red blood cells (PRBCs) has occurred in recent Canadian history. Our study sought to determine the cost accrued for a unit of PRBC within a Canadian hospital related to the inventory management, storage, testing, issuing and administration of the product.

Methods

An eight‐step costing model was developed to capture associated costs from the time of receipt at the hospital to the time of transfusion to a patient. Personnel, consumables and capital equipment costs within each step of the model were assessed using activity‐based accounting methods and German cost accounting principles.

Results

Based on 10,475 units, total in‐hospital cost per unit of PRBC was $243·10. Personnel, consumables and capital costs contributed 77·54%, 19·86% and 2·60% to this cost, respectively.

Conclusion

This study's in‐hospital costs of $243·10 summed with the $423·00 acquisition costs per unit PRBC from the blood supplier place the complete societal costs of one unit PRBCs at $666·10. This value is comparable, but lower than the majority of studies in the United States and Europe examining the societal costs of PRBCs.
Herbicide‐resistant weeds in the Philippines: Status and resistance mechanisms
Authors: Baltazar Aurora M.
Published: June 2017

Two major weeds in rice in the Philippines, Sphenochlea zeylanica Gaertn. and Echinochloa crus‐galli (L.) Beauv., are controlled with chemical and cultural methods. In the 1980s, after >10 years of continuous use of 2,4‐D, S. zeylanica evolved resistance to the chemical in those rice fields that had been treated with 2,4‐D once or twice every cropping season. In the 1990s, E. crus‐galli evolved resistance to butachlor and propanil in rice monocrop areas where both herbicides were used continuously for 7–9 years. Rice farmers continue to use 2,4‐D, butachlor and propanil extensively and are often unaware of herbicide resistance or the potential for cross‐resistance, its causes or its implications. In order to control herbicide‐resistant E. crus‐galli, farmers are shifting to locally available herbicides with different modes of action, such as bispyribac, an acetolactate synthase inhibitor, and cyhalofop, an acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase inhibitor. Follow‐up manual weeding or rotary weeding after herbicide spraying, a common farmers’ practice, removes the susceptible and resistant biotypes and could help to delay or prevent the evolution of resistance. Although the resistance mechanisms of both weeds are not determined yet, they could be related to enhanced degradation that is similar to the mechanisms that are shown by the resistant biotypes in other countries.
Night‐time tillage revisited: the delayed soil desiccation process in night‐time tilled plots may promote unexpected weed germination
Authors: Juroszek P , Neuhoff D , Köpke U
Published: June 2017

Night‐time tillage and sowing (photocontrol of weeds, soil cultivation in darkness) can reduce the germination and subsequent density of light‐sensitive weeds by excluding the short light flash during soil disturbance. In most experiments conducted from 1990 to 2004 worldwide, total weed density was reduced in night‐time tilled plots as expected. However, in a few field experiments, total weed density was significantly increased in night‐time compared with daytime tilled plots. We hypothesise that the desiccation process of the upper soil layer (roughly about 0–30 mm), from where most small seeded weeds emerge, may have been delayed in night‐time compared with daytime tilled plots, with significant effects on early seed germination processes. Daytime tillage was usually performed around noon, to capture high light intensities during soil tillage. However, around noon soil desiccation can be much higher than during the night. A few hours of relatively higher water availability for seeds in the upper soil layer during the night, before the next morning when soil desiccation usually increases again, may have favoured seed germination and subsequent weed emergence compared with daytime tillage, finally resulting in higher weed density in night‐time tilled plots. On the other hand, crop germination and emergence may also be higher under such conditions.
Sets of rich lines in general position
Authors: Amirkhanyan Gagik , Bush Albert , Croot Ernest , Pryby Chris
Published: June 2017

The Szemerédi–Trotter theorem implies that the number of lines incident to at least of points in is . J. Solymosi conjectured that if one requires the points to be in a grid formation and the lines to be in general position—no two parallel, no three meeting at a point—then one can get a much tighter bound. We prove a slight variant of his conjecture: for every there exists some such that for sufficiently large values of , every set of lines in general position, each intersecting an grid of points in at least places, has size at most . This implies a conjecture of Gy. Elekes about the existence of a uniform statistical version of Freiman's theorem for linear functions with small image sets.
Influence of Pleistocene glaciation on the distribution of three species of Labidostomma in Europe (Acari: Labidostommatidae)
Authors: Błoszyk Jerzy , Książkiewicz-Parulska Zofia , Adamski Zbigniew , Napierała Agnieszka
Published: June 2017

We present the results of research into the distribution and migration of three species of mites in the genus Labidostomma after the Pleistocene glaciation period in Europe. This study primarily focuses on the area of Poland, which was affected by the Scandinavian glacier four times. The migration trajectories of the species have been reconstructed on the basis of the current distribution, their altitude preferences, the sex ratio in populations of Labidostomma luteum, and the body size differences in different populations of L. luteum and L. denticulata. These species all have distributional limits in Poland: L. luteum—southeastern boundary, L. denticulata—northern, and Labidostomma cornuta—northwestern. Labidostomma luteum is a typically lowland species, L. cornuta occurred from 300 to 700 m a.s.l., and L. denticulata inhabits mountainous areas. The youngest populations of L. luteum and L. denticulata contain the smallest individuals. The number of males in populations of L. luteum is lower in northern areas of Europe, where the glacier has already retreated and the smaller specimens of L. luteum and L. denticulata were collected in the most remote habitats from the southern refugia where they succeeded in survival during the glaciation period.
Space-frequency coded orthogonal signal-division multiplexing over underwater acoustic channels
Authors: Han Jing , Shi Wentao , Leus Geert
Published: June 2017

Orthogonal signal-division multiplexing (OSDM) is a newly emerged modulation scheme which provides a generalized framework unifying conventional orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) and single-carrier frequency domain equalization. In this letter, a space-frequency block coding (SFBC) scheme based on OSDM is proposed for time-varying underwater acoustic channels. The receiver processing includes Doppler compensation, channel estimation, space-frequency decoding, and equalization. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate its superiority over the existing SFBC-OFDM counterpart.
Estimation of surface impedance at oblique incidence based on sparse array processing
Authors: Richard Antoine , Fernandez-Grande Efren , Brunskog Jonas , Jeong Cheol-Ho
Published: June 2017

A method is proposed to estimate the surface impedance of a large absorptive panel from free-field measurements with a spherical microphone array. The method relies on the reconstruction of the pressure and the particle velocity on the studied surface using an equivalent source method based on spherical array measurements. The sound field measured by the array is mainly composed of an incident and a reflected wave, so it can be represented as a spatially sparse problem. This makes it possible to use compressive sensing in order to enhance the resolution and the quality of the estimation. The results indicate an accurate reconstruction for angles of incidence between 0° and 60°, and between approximately 200 and 4000 Hz. Additionally, experimental challenges are discussed, such as the sample's finiteness at low frequencies and the estimation of the background noise.
Semi-analytical modeling of ground/plate interaction for general elastic boundary conditions
Authors: Grau Loïc , Laulagnet Bernard
Published: June 2017

This letter introduces ground/plate interaction using the concept of ground cross-modal impedance in the case of general elastic boundary conditions. Navier equations are generally used to account for ground vibration with two propagating waves, the dilatational wave and the shear wave. The plate equation of motion follows the Kirchhoff-Love hypothesis, where shear and rotational inertia are neglected in the plate thickness. The general elastic boundary conditions are expressed analytically through a two-dimensional Fourier series in the plate displacement solution. This study shows that the plate general boundary conditions have a small influence on the plate velocity. However, two categories of boundary conditions could be implemented, especially at low frequency.
Relations of Early Motor Skills on Age and Socialization, Communication, and Daily Living in Young Children With Developmental Disabilities
Authors: MacDonald Megan , Ross Samantha , McIntyre Laura Lee , Tepfer Amanda
Published: June 2017

Young children with developmental disabilities experience known deficits in salient child behaviors, such as social behaviors, communication, and aspects of daily living, behaviors that generally improve with chronological age. The purpose of this study was to examine the mediating effects of motor skills on relations of age and salient child behaviors in a group of young children with developmental disabilities, thus tapping into the potential influences of motor skills in the development of salient child behaviors. One hundred thirteen young children with developmental disabilities participated in this study. Independent mediation analysis, with gender as a moderator between the mediating and outcome variable, indicated that motor skills meditated relations between age and socialization, communication, and daily living skills in young male children with developmental disabilities, but not female participants. Findings suggest motor skill content needs to be considered in combination with other child behaviors commonly focused on in early intervention.
Postmenopausal pregnancy? Evaluation of elevated hCG in a 59-year-old woman
Authors: Basham Mary Margaret , Bryan Teresa
Published: June 2017

Slightly elevated serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) can be a normal finding in postmenopausal women. We report a case of a 59-year-old woman with a history of abnormal uterine bleeding who presented with a concern for pregnancy after developing nausea and vomiting a few weeks after unprotected intercourse. Although pregnancy was extremely unlikely, hCG was obtained in order to reassure the patient since she reported that her mother conceived at the age of 60. Serum hCG was positive, prompting concern for malignancy versus pregnancy. Stable serum hCG levels, elevated follicle-stimulating hormone and negative transvaginal ultrasound ruled out both malignancy and pregnancy. Positive serum pregnancy test and hCG elevation was attributed to normal postmenopausal state.
Congenital hypofibrinogenaemia: a presymptomatic detection of an extremely rare bleeding disorder in preterm twins
Authors: Breen Catherine Mary , Riazat Muhammad I , McCallion Naomi , Boyle Michael A
Published: June 2017

Twenty-eight-week-old preterm monochorionic–diamniotic twins were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit secondary to low birth weight and mild respiratory distress syndrome. A low fibrinogen level of less than 0.5 g/L was detected following an abnormal full blood count. They required fibrinogen transfusions until 32 weeks corrected gestation to maintain adequate fibrinogen levels. Parental screening revealed that their mother had a previously undiagnosed hypofibrinogenaemia. Of note, her only symptom was menorrhagia. This may have implications on further pregnancies as it can be associated with spontaneous miscarriage and post-partum haemorrhage. Congenital hypofibrinogenaemia is a rare disorder and there are no reported cases from Ireland. A higher degree of suspicion for screening is required to detect new cases and demonstrates the benefits of checking parental levels in such situations.
Bilateral isolated submandibular gland mumps
Authors: Cheung Linnea , Henderson Arthur Harry , Banfield Graham , Carswell Andrew
Published: June 2017

Isolated submandibular swellings pose a diagnostic challenge to the practising otolaryngologist. We report an unusual case of mumps isolated to bilateral submandibular glands. We discuss the case and the literature surrounding this condition and remind clinicians that mumps should be considered as a diagnosis in the presence of submandibular gland swelling in the absence of typical parotid swelling associated with mumps. Early consideration of this differential diagnosis, serological testing and a multidisciplinary approach may help to clinch the diagnosis earlier and prevent spread of the virus.
Identifying a Set of Key Members in Social Networks Using SDP-Based Stochastic Search and Integer Programming Algorithms
Authors: Wu Wentao , Chan Wai Kin Victor , Chi Lei , Gong Zhiguo
Published: June 2017

This paper presents two semi-definite programming (SDP) based methods to solve the Key Player Problem (KPP). The KPP is to identify a set of [Formula: see text] nodes (i.e., key players) from a social network of size [Formula: see text] such that the number of nodes connected to these [Formula: see text] nodes is maximized. The KPP has applications in social diffusion and products adoption as it helps maximizing information diffusion and impact. We first formulate the KPP as an integer program (IP) and then convert it into an SDP formulation, which can be solved efficiently and produce a set of high quality candidate solutions. We develop an IP-based algorithm and a stochastic search (greedy) algorithm to find the final solution for the KPP. We compare our algorithms with existing methods in small and large networks with different network structures, including random graph, scale-free network, and community-based scale-free network (CSN). Computational results show that our algorithms are more efficient in solving the KPP in all networks. In addition, we examine how the network structure influences the nodes coverage. It is found that CSNs allow the highest nodes coverage due to their community and scale-free structure.
Dark matter and baryogenesis from non-Abelian gauged lepton number
Authors: Fornal Bartosz
Published: June 2017

A simple model is constructed based on the gauge symmetry [Formula: see text], with only the leptons transforming nontrivially under [Formula: see text]. The extended symmetry is broken down to the Standard Model gauge group at TeV-scale energies. We show that this model provides a mechanism for baryogenesis via leptogenesis in which the lepton number asymmetry is generated by [Formula: see text] instantons. The theory also contains a dark matter candidate — the [Formula: see text] partner of the right-handed neutrino.
Reflections of the observer and the observed in quantum gravity
Authors: Ahluwalia Dharam Vir
Published: June 2017

A broad brush impressionistic view of physics from the vantage point of someone living on a nearby dark-planet Zimpok is presented so as to argue that the observed and the observer are reflected in quantum gravity through a universal mass shared by neurones and a unification scale of the high energy physics.
de Sitter spacetime with a Becchi–Rouet–Stora quartet
Authors: Saitou Rio , Gong Yungui
Published: June 2017

We generalize the topological model recently proposed and investigate the cosmological perturbations of the model. The model has an exact de Sitter background solution associated with the Becchi–Rouet–Stora (BRS) quartet terms which are regarded as the Lagrangian density of the topological field theory. The de Sitter solution can be selected without spontaneously breaking the BRS symmetry, and be interpreted as a gauge fixing of de Sitter spacetime. The BRS symmetry is preserved for the perturbations around the de Sitter background before we solve the constraints of general relativity. We derive action to the second-order of the perturbations and confirm that even after solving the constraints, we have the BRS symmetry at least for the second-order action. We construct the cosmological perturbation theory involving the BRS sector, and obtain the two-point correlation functions for the curvature perturbation and the isocurvature perturbations which compose the BRS sector. Our result gives a new description for de Sitter spacetime and the quantum field theory in de Sitter spacetime.
Thermodynamics of the FRW universe in rainbow gravity
Authors: Sefiedgar Akram Sadat , Daghigh Majid
Published: June 2017

Rainbow gravity can be a suitable model to study the Friedmann–Robertson–Walker (FRW) universe in the realm of high energy physics. In rainbow gravity the radius of the apparent horizon is modified and it is used to derive the surface gravity and the temperature on the horizon. Inspired by the modified Friedmann equation in rainbow gravity and adopting the viewpoint that there is a deep connection between Friedmann equation and the first law of thermodynamics, the entropy on the horizon is obtained. It is interesting to be noted that the thermodynamical properties of the FRW universe depend on the energy of the probe, which is used by an observer to investigate the spacetime. Finally, it is shown that the validity of the generalized second law (GSL) of thermodynamics can be considered as a useful instrument to restrict the choice of rainbow gravity functions.
APPLICATION OF FRACTAL GEOMETRY IN EVALUATION OF EFFECTIVE STIMULATED RESERVOIR VOLUME IN SHALE GAS RESERVOIRS
Authors: SHENG GUANGLONG , SU YULIANG , WANG WENDONG , JAVADPOUR FARZAM , TANG MEIRONG
Published: June 2017

According to hydraulic-fracturing practices conducted in shale reservoirs, effective stimulated reservoir volume (ESRV) significantly affects the production of hydraulic fractured well. Therefore, estimating ESRV is an important prerequisite for confirming the success of hydraulic fracturing and predicting the production of hydraulic fracturing wells in shale reservoirs. However, ESRV calculation remains a longstanding challenge in hydraulic-fracturing operation. In considering fractal characteristics of the fracture network in stimulated reservoir volume (SRV), this paper introduces a fractal random-fracture-network algorithm for converting the microseismic data into fractal geometry. Five key parameters, including bifurcation direction, generating length ([Formula: see text]), deviation angle ([Formula: see text]), iteration times ([Formula: see text]) and generating rules, are proposed to quantitatively characterize fracture geometry. Furthermore, we introduce an orthogonal-fractures coupled dual-porosity-media representation elementary volume (REV) flow model to predict the volumetric flux of gas in shale reservoirs. On the basis of the migration of adsorbed gas in porous kerogen of REV with different fracture spaces, an ESRV criterion for shale reservoirs with SRV is proposed. Eventually, combining the ESRV criterion and fractal characteristic of a fracture network, we propose a new approach for evaluating ESRV in shale reservoirs. The approach has been used in the Eagle Ford shale gas reservoir, and results show that the fracture space has a measurable influence on migration of adsorbed gas. The fracture network can contribute to enhancement of the absorbed gas recovery ratio when the fracture space is less than 0.2 m. ESRV is evaluated in this paper, and results indicate that the ESRV accounts for 27.87% of the total SRV in shale gas reservoirs. This work is important and timely for evaluating fracturing effect and predicting production of hydraulic fracturing wells in shale reservoirs.
From discrete to continuous monotone C*-algebras via quantum central limit theorems
Authors: Crismale Vitonofrio , Fidaleo Francesco , Lu Yun Gang
Published: June 2017

We prove that all finite joint distributions of creation and annihilation operators in monotone and anti-monotone Fock spaces can be realised as Quantum Central Limit of certain operators in a [Formula: see text]-algebra, at least when the test functions are Riemann integrable. Namely, the approximation is given by weighted sequences of creators and annihilators in discrete monotone [Formula: see text]-algebras, the weights being related to the above cited test functions.
MOGA-Based Optimization Design of Core Portion of Press-Fit Assembly Machine in Car Radiator
Authors: Hai Zhou , Yuan Zhang , Tongtong Xu , Kai Gong , Kang Wu , Hui Wang , Bin Wang
Published: June 2017

For the overweight of automatic car radiator core assembly machine crimping part, the structure was optimized and designed based on ANSYS Workbench to satisfy the double objective about reducing weight and decreasing the impact of the amount of deformation of the core assembly components. Multi-objective genetic algorithm was carried out to search the Pareto optimal solution set for optimal and design problems. It shows that the weight of crimping part reduces by 5.34% compared with the previous part, the assembly flatness of core reduces by 13.43%, and the total deformation affecting mainboard press-fit and positional accuracy of the flared reduces by 6.89%, which all meet the requirements of multi-objective optimization design.
A Modular Supervisory Control Design of Discrete Event Systems
Authors: Jafarinejad Fatemeh , Pouyan Ali A.
Published: June 2017

This paper presents a modular liveness-enforcing supervisory control design for scalable discrete event systems. A maximally permissive monitor-based supervisory control policy is suggested using divide and conquer paradigm. A vector-covering approach is used to minimize essential set of legal markings and first-met bad markings. Providing that modules of system interact by Enable operator, it will be proved that monitor-based supervisory control methods can be applied modularly. Then, Enable operator of Petri nets (PNs) can be used to synthesize subsystems. This algorithm is implemented by extending a graphical PN drawing and analysis tool with supervisory control analysis modules as Java codes. The experimental results show that this approach constitutes a primary step towards a hierarchical procedure that overcomes whole reachability graph computation, which is a bottleneck in deadlock preventing supervisory control policies.
Quantum speed-up dynamical crossover in open systems
Authors: Wu W.-J. , Yan K. , Xie Y.-Q. , Wu Yinzhong , Hao Xiang
Published: June 2017

We put forward a measure for evaluating quantum speed limit for arbitrary mixed states of open systems by means of trace distance. Compared with some present measures, it can provide an optimal bound to the speed of the evolution. The dynamical crossover from no speedup region to speedup region happens during the spontaneous decay of an atom. The evolution is characteristic of the alternating behavior between quantum acceleration and deceleration in the strong coupling case. Under the condition of detuning, the evolution can be initially accelerated and then decelerated to a normal process either in the weak or strong coupling regime. In accordance with the uncertainty relation, we demonstrate that the potential capacity for quantum speedup evolution is closely related to the energy feedback from the reservoir to the system. The negative decay rate for the evolution results in the speedup process where the photons previously emitted by the atom are reabsorbed at a later time. The values of the spontaneous decay rate become positive after a long enough time, which results in the evolution with no speedup potential.
A novel potential nanophototherapeutic based on the assembly of an amphiphilic cationic β-cyclodextrin and an anionic porphyrin
Authors: Mazzaglia Antonino , Micali Norberto , Villari Valentina , Zagami Roberto , Pennisi Rosa Maria , Mellet Carmen Ortiz , Fernández José Manuel Garcia , Sciortino Maria Teresa , Scolaro Luigi Monsù
Published: June 2017

The development of cyclodextrin nanoassemblies as useful carriers for photosensitizer drugs (PS) delivery in biological environment is a topic of increasing interest. In this paper, we present a spectroscopic investigation on a nanosystem based on an amphiphilic cationic β-cyclodextrin derivative (CD-N) and an anionic porphyrin (TPPS). Nanoassemblies were prepared by hydration of an organic film containing the two species. The system was characterized by complementary techniques such as UV-vis, stationary and time-resolved fluorescence, and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) at different TPPS/CD-N molar ratios. Time-resolved fluorescence data showed that, at all the investigated molar ratios, TPPS is present both as self-aggregated species and monomers forming supramolecular adducts with CD-N. Moreover, DLS measurements evidenced families of aggregates having hydrodynamic radii ranging between 50 and 350 nm and the size distribution profile depending on the TPPS/CD-N molar ratio. At the highest CD-N concentration, the hydrodynamic radii of the aggregates were nearly the same as those of neat CD-N in the absence of TPPS (50 nm). No aging phenomena were registered, pointing out the high stability of these nanoassemblies in aqueous solution for at least a month. Preliminary studies on the internalization in tumoral cells and subsequent irradiation for PDT application were carried out. The results support the feasibility of these nanoaggregates to promote PS internalization in HeLa cells, inducing cell death upon visible light irradiation.
The meshless method for two-dimensional space-time fractional dispersion equation based on reproducing kernel particle method
Authors: Cheng Rongjun , Sun Fengxin , Wang Jufeng
Published: June 2017

The two-dimensional space fractional dispersion equation (SFDE) is obtained from the standard dispersion equation by replacing the two second-order space derivatives by the Riemann–Liouville fractional derivatives. A numerical analysis of the two-dimensional SFDE is presented based on the reproducing kernel particle method (RKPM). The final algebraic equation system is obtained by employing Galerkin weak form and functional minimization procedure. The Riemann–Liouville operator is discretized by the shifted Grünwald formula. The fully-discrete approximation schemes for SFDE are established using center difference method and RKPM and the shifted Grünwald formula. Numerical simulations for SFDE with known exact solution were presented in the format of the tables and graphs. The presented results demonstrate the validity, efficiency and accuracy of the proposed techniques. Furthermore, the error estimate of RKPM for SFDE has been analyzed, which shows that this method has reasonable convergence rates in spatial and temporal discretizations.
Deep Compositing Using Lie Algebras
Authors: Duff Tom
Published: June 2017

Deep compositing is an important practical tool in creating digital imagery, but there has been little theoretical analysis of the underlying mathematical operators. Motivated by finding a simple formulation of the merging operation on
OpenEXR
-style deep images, we show that the Porter-Duff
over
function is the operator of a Lie group. In its corresponding Lie algebra, the splitting and mixing functions that
OpenEXR
deep merging requires have a particularly simple form. Working in the Lie algebra, we present a novel, simple proof of the uniqueness of the mixing function.

The Lie group structure has many more applications, including new, correct resampling algorithms for volumetric images with alpha channels, and a deep image compression technique that outperforms that of
OpenEXR
.
Fast and Accurate Time-Series Clustering
Authors: Paparrizos John , Gravano Luis
Published: June 2017

The proliferation and ubiquity of temporal data across many disciplines has generated substantial interest in the analysis and mining of time series. Clustering is one of the most popular data-mining methods, not only due to its exploratory power but also because it is often a preprocessing step or subroutine for other techniques. In this article, we present
k
-Shape and
k
-MultiShapes (
k
-MS), two novel algorithms for time-series clustering.
k
-Shape and
k
-MS rely on a scalable iterative refinement procedure. As their distance measure,
k
-Shape and
k
-MS use shape-based distance (SBD), a normalized version of the cross-correlation measure, to consider the shapes of time series while comparing them. Based on the properties of SBD, we develop two new methods, namely ShapeExtraction (SE) and MultiShapesExtraction (MSE), to compute cluster centroids that are used in every iteration to update the assignment of time series to clusters.
k
-Shape relies on SE to compute a single centroid per cluster based on all time series in each cluster. In contrast,
k
-MS relies on MSE to compute multiple centroids per cluster to account for the proximity and spatial distribution of time series in each cluster. To demonstrate the robustness of SBD,
k
-Shape, and
k
-MS, we perform an extensive experimental evaluation on 85 datasets against state-of-the-art distance measures and clustering methods for time series using rigorous statistical analysis. SBD, our efficient and parameter-free distance measure, achieves similar accuracy to Dynamic Time Warping (DTW), a highly accurate but computationally expensive distance measure that requires parameter tuning. For clustering, we compare
k
-Shape and
k
-MS against scalable and non-scalable partitional, hierarchical, spectral, density-based, and shapelet-based methods, with combinations of the most competitive distance measures.
k
-Shape outperforms all scalable methods in terms of accuracy. Furthermore,
k
-Shape also outperforms all non-scalable approaches, with one exception, namely
k
-medoids with DTW, which achieves similar accuracy. However, unlike
k
-Shape, this approach requires tuning of its distance measure and is significantly slower than
k
-Shape.
k
-MS performs similarly to
k
-Shape in comparison to rival methods, but
k
-MS is significantly more accurate than
k
-Shape. Beyond clustering, we demonstrate the effectiveness of
k
-Shape to reduce the search space of one-nearest-neighbor classifiers for time series. Overall, SBD,
k
-Shape, and
k
-MS emerge as domain-independent, highly accurate, and efficient methods for time-series comparison and clustering with broad applications.
Verifying Procedural Programs via Constrained Rewriting Induction
Authors: Fuhs Carsten , Kop Cynthia , Nishida Naoki
Published: June 2017

This article aims to develop a verification method for procedural programs via a transformation into logically constrained term rewriting systems (LCTRSs). To this end, we extend transformation methods based on integer term rewriting systems to handle arbitrary data types, global variables, function calls, and arrays, and to encode safety checks. Then we adapt existing rewriting induction methods to LCTRSs and propose a simple yet effective method to generalize equations. We show that we can automatically verify memory safety and prove correctness of realistic functions. Our approach proves equivalence between two implementations; thus, in contrast to other works, we do not require an explicit specification in a separate specification language.
Uniqueness of Normal Forms for Shallow Term Rewrite Systems
Authors: Radcliffe Nicholas R. , Moraes Luis F. T. , Verma Rakesh M.
Published: June 2017

Uniqueness of normal forms (UN
=
) is an important property of term rewrite systems. UN
=
is decidable for ground (i.e., variable-free) systems and undecidable in general. Recently, it was shown to be decidable for linear, shallow systems. We generalize this previous result and show that this property is decidable for shallow rewrite systems, in contrast to confluence, reachability, and other related properties, which are all undecidable for flat systems. We also prove an upper bound on the complexity of our algorithm. Our decidability result is optimal in a sense, since we prove that the UN
=
property is undecidable for two classes of linear rewrite systems: left-flat systems in which right-hand sides are of height at most two and right-flat systems in which left-hand sides are of height at most two.
Consistent Query Answering for Self-Join-Free Conjunctive Queries Under Primary Key Constraints
Authors: Koutris Paraschos , Wijsen Jef
Published: June 2017

A relational database is said to be uncertain if primary key constraints can possibly be violated. A repair (or possible world) of an uncertain database is obtained by selecting a maximal number of tuples without ever selecting two distinct tuples with the same primary key value. For any Boolean query
q
, CERTAINTY(
q
) is the problem that takes an uncertain database
db
as input and asks whether
q
is true in every repair of
db
. The complexity of this problem has been particularly studied for
q
ranging over the class of self-join-free Boolean conjunctive queries. A research challenge is to determine, given
q
, whether CERTAINTY(
q
) belongs to complexity classes
FO
,
P
, or
coNP
-complete.

In this article, we combine existing techniques for studying this complexity classification task. We show that, for any self-join-free Boolean conjunctive query
q
, it can be decided whether or not CERTAINTY(
q
) is in
FO
. We additionally show how to construct a single SQL query for solving CERTAINTY(
q
) if it is in
FO
. Further, for any self-join-free Boolean conjunctive query
q
, CERTAINTY(
q
) is either in
P
or
coNP
-complete and the complexity dichotomy is effective. This settles a research question that has been open for 10 years.
From Annotation to Computer-Aided Diagnosis
Authors: Riegler Michael , Pogorelov Konstantin , Eskeland Sigrun Losada , Schmidt Peter Thelin , Albisser Zeno , Johansen Dag , Griwodz Carsten , Halvorsen Pål , Lange Thomas De
Published: June 2017

Holistic medical multimedia systems covering end-to-end functionality from data collection to aided diagnosis are highly needed, but rare. In many hospitals, the potential value of multimedia data collected through routine examinations is not recognized. Moreover, the availability of the data is limited, as the health care personnel may not have direct access to stored data. However, medical specialists interact with multimedia content daily through their everyday work and have an increasing interest in finding ways to use it to facilitate their work processes. In this article, we present a novel, holistic multimedia system aiming to tackle automatic analysis of video from gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. The proposed system comprises the whole pipeline, including data collection, processing, analysis, and visualization. It combines filters using machine learning, image recognition, and extraction of global and local image features. The novelty is primarily in this holistic approach and its real-time performance, where we automate a complete algorithmic GI screening process. We built the system in a modular way to make it easily extendable to analyze various abnormalities, and we made it efficient in order to run in real time. The conducted experimental evaluation proves that the detection and localization accuracy are comparable or even better than existing systems, but it is by far leading in terms of real-time performance and efficient resource consumption.
Three Design Basis Accidents’ Analysis on the HTR-10GT
Authors: Lang Minggang , Xie Heng , Dong Yujie
Published: June 2017

The study simulated the design basis accidents (DBAs) sequences of the HTR-10GT core with THERMIX. When a DBA happens, the protection system will receive a scram signal which shall lead to active measures to shut down the reactor following it. In the paper, three typical DBA cases were studied. They include an accident induced by station blackout, a case caused by the withdrawal of one control rod out of the core by a mistake, and a case resulting from an earthquake, respectively. The simulation results illustrate that the fuel peak temperatures in the core during these accidents are 1066°C, 1201°C and 1067°C, respectively. It is shown that the HTR-10GT has a good safety characteristic.
UV Photocatalytic Activity for Water Decomposition of SrxBa1−xNb2O6 Nanocrystals with Different Components and Morphologies
Authors: Han Guoqiang , Cao Shuguang , Lin Bo
Published: June 2017

Strontium barium niobate SrxBa1-xNb2O6 (SBN) nanocrystals with different components (x=0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8) were synthesized by Molten Salt Synthesis (MSS) method at various reaction temperatures (T = 950°C, 1000°C, 1050°C, and 1100°C). The SBN nanocrystals yielded through flux reactions possess different morphologies and sizes with a length of about ~100 nm~7 μm and a diameter of about ~200~500 nm. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) techniques were used to study the compositions, structures, and morphologies of the nanocrystals. The absorption edges of the SBN nanocrystals are at a wavelength region of approximate 390 nm, which corresponds to band-gap energy of ~3.18 eV. The SBN nanocrystals with different sizes display different photocatalytic activity under ultraviolet light in decomposition of water. The SBN60 nanocrystals exhibit stable photocatalytic rates (~100~130 μmol of H2·g−1·h−1) for hydrogen production. The SBN nanocrystals can be a potential material in the application of photocatalysis and micro/nanooptical devices.