bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Coordination Trainings on Different Surfaces on the Slalom Downhill Speed Velocity of Snowboarders
Authors: Tanyeri Levent , Öncen Sercan
Published: February 2019

Purpose: Snowboarding is a branch of sport, an individual Alpine sport, which requires superior physical structure. In snowboarding, snowboarders are expected to have high level aerobic and anaerobic strength to become successful. In the present study, the effects of training programs on different surfaces on slalom downhill speed of snowboarding-Alpine snowboarders were examined.Methods: 18 male snowboarders in the Turkish National Snowboarding Alpine team participated in the study. Snowboarders were divided into two groups. Experimental group (G1) was divided into train on non-stable surface and stable surface groups. The experimental group got a coordination and classical snowboarding training program on different surfaces over 8 weeks for 2 days per week (Tuesday-Thursday). Stable surfaces were used on Tuesday and consisted of surfaces with Bosu ball, balance rope, plates ball, balance cushion, balance board, and balance disk. Non-stable surfaces were used on Wednesday and consisted foo skiing exercises that will disturb the balance of the sport player including straight slalom track, degrade surface track, skiing on hard surface, skiing on soft surface, skiing on one foot with eyes open, skiing with eyes closed. The control group (CG) received a classical training program. Trainings were scheduled to leave at least 36 hours between two application days. To determine the speed capacities of the snowboarders the slalom downhill speed test was used; to test agility, the hexagonal test was used, and to measure balance techno body prokin static and dynamic balance tests were used. In the data analysis, descriptive statistics were used. For comparative analysis, the Mann-Whitney U test was used and the significance level was selected as 0.05.Findings: The research results revealed that coordination trainings conducted on different surfaces for 8 weeks had a significant effect on slalom downhill speed of snowboarding-Alpine snowboarders.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Smith Robert
Published: February 2019

Journal of Education and Training Studies (JETS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether JETS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 7, Number 3Enisa Mede, Bahcesehir University, TurkeyFatma Ozudogru, Usak University, TurkeyFroilan D. Mobo, Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, PhilippineHenry D. Mason, Tshwane University of Technology, South Africaİbrahim Yaşar Kazu, Firat University, TurkeyJane Liang, California Department of Education, USAJeyavel Sundaramoorthy, Gulbarga University Campus, IndiaJohn Cowan, Edinburgh Napier University, UKJonathan Chitiyo, University of Pittsburgh Bradford, USALinda J. Rappel, Yorkville University/University of Calgary, CanadaLorna T. Enerva, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, PhilippinesMary Sciaraffa, Eastern Kentucky University, USAMaurizio Sajeva, Pellervo Economic Research PTT, FinlandPuneet S. Gill, Texas A&M International University, USASandro Sehic, Oneida BOCES, USASayim Aktay, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, TurkeySelloane Pitikoe, University of Kwazulu-Natal, South AfricaSimona Savelli, Università degli Studi Guglielmo Marconi, ItalyStamatis Papadakis, University of Crete, GreeceYavuz Değirmenci, Bayburt University, Turkey       Robert SmithEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Journal of Education and Training StudiesRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://jets.redfame.com
Evening high‐intensity interval exercise does not disrupt sleep or alter energy intake despite changes in acylated ghrelin in middle‐aged men
Authors: Larsen Penelope , Marino Frank , Melehan Kerri , Guelfi Kym J , Duffield Rob , Skein Melissa
Published: February 2019

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What are the interactions between sleep and appetite following early evening high‐intensity interval exercise (HIIE)?

What is the main finding and its importance?

HIIE can be performed in the early evening without subsequent sleep disruptions and may favourably alter appetite‐related hormone concentrations. Nonetheless, perceived appetite and energy intake do not change with acute HIIE regardless of time of day.

Despite exercise benefits for sleep and appetite, due to increased time restraints, many adults remain inactive. Methods to improve exercise compliance include preferential time‐of‐day or engaging in short‐duration, high‐intensity interval exercise (HIIE). Hence, this study aimed to compare effects of HIIE time‐of‐day on sleep and appetite. Eleven inactive men undertook sleep monitoring to determine baseline (BASE) sleep stages and exclude sleep disorders. On separate days, participants completed 30 min HIIE (60 s work at 100% , 240 s rest at 50% ) in (1) the morning (MORN; 06.00–07.00 h), (2) the afternoon (AFT; 14.00–16.00 h) and (3) the early evening (EVEN: 19.00–20.00 h). Measures included appetite‐related hormones (acylated ghrelin, leptin, peptide tyrosine tyrosine) and glucose pre‐exercise, 30 min post‐exercise and the next morning; overnight polysomnography (PSG; sleep stages); and actigraphy, self‐reported sleep and food diaries for 48 h post‐exercise. There were no between‐trial differences for total sleep time (P = 0.46). Greater stage N3 sleep was recorded for MORN (23 ± 7%) compared to BASE (18 ± 7%; P = 0.02); however, no between‐trial differences existed (P > 0.05). Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep was lower and non‐REM sleep was higher for EVEN compared to BASE (P ≤ 0.05). At 30 min post‐exercise, ghrelin was higher for AFT compared to MORN and EVEN (P = 0.01), while glucose was higher for MORN compared to AFT and EVEN (P ≤ 0.02). No between‐trial differences were observed for perceived appetite (P ≥ 0.21) or energy intake (P = 0.57). Early evening HIIE can be performed without subsequent sleep disruptions and reduces acylated ghrelin. However, perceived appetite and energy intake appear to be unaffected by HIIE time of day.
The Risk of Extended Power Loss and the Probability of Emergency Restoration for Severe Events and Nuclear Accidents
Authors: Duffey Romney B.
Published: February 2019

This paper gives a complete account of recent work on the prediction of power restoration in severe accidents and events, and quantifies the benefits and impact of deploying back-up or emergency power systems in nuclear reactors. The overall outage data for all types of major events and disasters follow the same fundamental trends based on statistical learning theory, and are correlated by simple theoretically based exponential equations that include the degree of difficulty. This trend is shown to be completely independent of severe event type (e.g., hurricanes, ice storms, flooding, earthquakes, cyclones, and fires) but the rate systematically depends on the degree of difficulty. The paper emphasizes that the physics of learning, analytical methodology, technical statistical theory, and extensive event database already implicitly and fully include all human errors, actions, and decisions made during power restoration for the extremely adverse conditions prevalent in severe events and actual disasters. The theory shows flexible coping strategies/emergency power system FLEX/EPS reliability, deployment timescale, and severe event power restoration rate are intrinsically coupled together. The analytical results can be used to define the EPS design and reliability requirements and the potential risk benefit and deployment timescales in terms of the probability change in the risk of extended power loss.
Imaging appearance and role of CEUS of high flow priapism. A case report.
Authors: Elec Florin , Moisoiu Tudor , Burghelea Dan , Zaro Razvan , Badea Radu
Published: February 2019

High flow priapism caused by perineal trauma is a relatively rare disorder. Early diagnosis represents a mandatory condition for the therapeutic resolution. Ultrasound examination is affordable and a within reach method for diagnosis also in an emergency context. We present the case of a 56-year-old male patient with traumatic priapism which was subsequently investigated by contrast-enhanced ultrasound and shear wave elastography. This may be one of the first cases presented in the literature
A simple approach for ultrasound-guided pararadicular injections in the sacral spine: a pilot computer tomography controlled cadaver study
Authors: Plaikner Michaela , Gruber Hannes , Schwabl Christoph , Brenner Erich , Bale Reto , Skalla Elisabeth , Loizides Alexander
Published: February 2019

Aims: Injection therapies play an increasingly decisive role in the treatment of lower back pain. Cumulative studies could show the benefits of ultrasound-guided instillation procedures in the cervical and lumbar spine. We conducted this study to provide a new simple sonographic approach for pararadicular injections of the sacral spinal nerves and to prove the feasibility and accuracy by means of CT and anatomic dissection.Material and methods: Eight ultrasound-guided injections at four different levels of the sacral spine on a human ethanol-glycerol–embalmed cadaver (S1-S4) were performed. By means of sonography the sacral foramina were identified and the spinal needles were advanced in “in-plane technique” to the medial margin of the respective sacral foramen. Subsequently a solution of blue dye and contrast agent were injected. Then CT scans and anatomic dissection of the cadaver were performed to verify the correct placement of the needle tips and to visualize the dispersion of the injected solution in the respective compartment.Results: Altogether a 100% success rate for a correct injection could be achieved. CT examination confirmed the correct placement of every needle tip within the intended compartment. Also, the anatomic dissections affirmed the appropriate needle positioning. Moreover, the blue dye dispersion was seen in the correct compartments and around the targeted spinal nerves.Conclusions: Although this study was only performed on cadaveric models, this new sonographic approach for pararadicular injections in the sacral spine allows an easy, precise and unerring needle placement within the dorsal sacral foramen.
Resistance Analysis of Bictegravir-Emtricitabine-Tenofovir Alafenamide in HIV-1 Treatment-Naive Patients through 48 Weeks
Authors: Acosta Rima K. , Willkom Madeleine , Martin Ross , Chang Silvia , Wei Xuelian , Garner William , Lutz Justin , Majeed Sophia , SenGupta Devi , Martin Hal , Quirk Erin , White Kirsten L.
Published: February 2019

In clinical studies GS-US-380-1489 (study 1489) and GS-US-380-1490 (study 1490), bictegravir-emtricitabine-tenofovir alafenamide (B-F-TAF), dolutegravir-abacavir-lamivudine (DTG-ABC-3TC), and dolutegravir plus emtricitabine-tenofovir alafenamide (DTG+F-TAF) treatment achieved high rates of virologic suppression in HIV-1 treatment-naive participants through week 48. Preexisting primary drug resistance was present at levels of 1.3% integrase strand transfer inhibitor resistance (INSTI-R), 2.7% nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor resistance (NRTI-R), 14.1% nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor resistance (NNRTI-R), and 3.5% protease inhibitor resistance (PI-R) in the 1,274 participants from these studies.
Pharmacokinetics of Levofloxacin in Children Treated for Exposure to Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Malik Amyn A. , Brooks Meredith B. , Siddiqui Sara , Fuad Junaid , Peloquin Charles A. , Amanullah Farhana , Jaswal Maria , Becerra Mercedes C. , Hussain Hamidah , Yuen Courtney M.
Published: February 2019

Levofloxacin is used to treat and prevent drug-resistant tuberculosis in children. We assessed levofloxacin serum drug concentrations in 24 children aged 2 to 10 years who received levofloxacin-based tuberculosis preventive therapy in Karachi, Pakistan.
Development of the TypeSeq Assay for Detection of 51 Human Papillomavirus Genotypes by Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Wagner Sarah , Roberson David , Boland Joseph , Yeager Meredith , Cullen Michael , Mirabello Lisa , Dunn S. Terence , Walker Joan , Zuna Rosemary , Schiffman Mark , Wentzensen Nicolas
Published: February 2019

We have developed a new human papillomavirus (HPV) genotyping assay for detection of 51 HPV genotypes by next-generation sequencing (NGS). The TypeSeq assay consists of 3 PCR steps that equalize viral load and each type’s amplicon copies prior to genotyping by NGS, thereby maximizing multiple-type sensitivity with minimal sequencing reads.
Species-Specific Pathogenicity of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus Is Determined by Anti-STAT2 Activity of NSs
Authors: Yoshikawa Rokusuke , Sakabe Saori , Urata Shuzo , Yasuda Jiro
Published: February 2019

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging infectious disease caused by SFTSV, which has been reported in China, South Korea, and Japan. Here, we revealed that mice lacking STAT2, which is an important factor for antiviral innate immunity, are highly susceptible to SFTSV infection. We also show that SFTSV NSs cannot exert its anti-innate immunity activity in mice due to the inability of the protein to bind to murine STAT2. Our findings suggest that the dysfunction of SFTSV NSs as an IFN antagonist in murine cells confers a loss of pathogenicity of SFTSV in mice.
MITE

Aba12

, a Novel Mobile Miniature Inverted-Repeat Transposable Element Identified in
Acinetobacter baumannii
ATCC 17978 and Its Prevalence across the
Moraxellaceae
Family
Authors: Adams Felise G. , Brown Melissa H.
Published: February 2019

One of the most important weapons in the armory of
Acinetobacter
is its impressive genetic plasticity, facilitating rapid genetic mutations and rearrangements as well as integration of foreign determinants carried by mobile genetic elements. Of these, IS are considered one of the key forces shaping bacterial genomes and ultimately evolution. We report the identification of a novel nonautonomous IS-derived element present in multiple bacterial species from the
Moraxellaceae
family and its recent translocation into the
hns
locus in the
A. baumannii
ATCC 17978 genome. The latter finding adds new knowledge to only a limited number of documented examples of MITEs in the literature and underscores the plastic nature of the
hns
locus in
A. baumannii
. MITE

Aba12

, and its predicted parent(s), may be a source of substantial adaptive evolution within environmental and clinically relevant bacterial pathogens and, thus, have broad implications for niche-specific adaptation.
Virtual reality videos used in undergraduate palliative and oncology medical teaching: results of a pilot study
Authors: Taubert Mark , Webber Lucie , Hamilton Timothy , Carr Madeleine , Harvey Mark
Published: February 2019

Background

Virtual reality (VR) immersive environments have been shown to be effective in medical teaching. Our university hospital received funding from our deanery, Health Education in Wales, to film teaching videos with a 360-degree camera.

Aims

To evaluate whether VR is an effective and acceptable teaching environment. VR headsets were set up for medical students who rotated through Velindre Cancer Hospital’s Palliative Care department.

Methods

Students were asked to put on a VR headset and experience a pre-recorded 27 min presentation on nausea and vomiting in palliative care settings. They subsequently viewed a radiotherapy treatment experience from a patient’s point of view.

Results

Of the 72 medical students who participated, 70 found the experience comfortable, with two students stating they felt the experience uncomfortable (1=headset too tight; 1=blurry visuals). Numerical scoring on ability to concentrate in VR from 0 to 10 (0=worst, 10=best) scored an average of 8.44 (range, 7–10). Asked whether this format suited their learning style, average score was 8.31 (range 6–10). 97.2 % (n=70) students stated that they would recommend this form of learning to a colleague, with one student saying he/she would not recommend and another stating he/she was unsure. Students left anonymous free-text feedback comments which helped frame future needs in this emerging area.

Discussion

This study suggests that there is room for exploring new ways of delivering teaching and expanding it more widely in palliative care and oncology, but also provides feedback on areas that need further careful attention. Comments from students included: “Might have been the novelty factor but I learnt more from this 20 min VR thing than I have from many lectures”.

The project has proved sufficiently popular in medical student feedback, that the VR experience is now available on YouTube and has been permanently introduced into routine teaching. Further 360-degree teaching environments have been filmed. Of note is that our 360-degree videos have been viewed in Africa, so this format of teaching could prove valuable due to its global reach.
Genome-wide meta-analysis identifies genetic locus on chromosome 9 associated with Modic changes
Authors: Freidin Maxim , Kraatari Minna , Skarp Sini , Määttä Juhani , Kettunen Johannes , Niinimäki Jaakko , Karppinen Jaro , Williams Frances , Männikkö Minna
Published: February 2019

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is a common disabling condition. Lumbar disc degeneration (LDD) may be a contributing factor for LBP. Modic change (MC), a distinct phenotype of LDD, is presented as a pathological bone marrow signal change adjacent to vertebral endplate on MRI. It is strongly associated with LBP and has heritability around 30%. Our objective was to identify genetic loci associated with MC using a genome-wide meta-analysis.

Methods

Presence of MC was evaluated in lumbar MRI in the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 (n=1182) and TwinsUK (n=647). Genome-wide association analyses were carried out using linear regression model. Inverse-variance weighting approach was used in the meta-analysis.

Results

A locus associated with MC (p<5e-8) was found on chromosome 9 with the lead SNP rs1934268 in an intron of the PTPRD gene. It is located in the binding region of BCL11A, SPI1 and PBX3 transcription factors. The SNP was nominally associated with LBP in TwinsUK (p=0.001) but not associated in the UK Biobank (p=0.914). Suggestive signals (p<1e-5) were identified near XKR4, SCIN, MGMT, DLG2, ZNF184 and OPRK1.

Conclusion

PTPRD is a novel candidate gene for MC that may act via the development of cartilage or nervous system; further work is needed to define the mechanisms underlying the pathways leading to development of MC. This is the first genome-wide meta-analysis of MC, and the results pave the way for further studies on the genetic factors underlying the various features of spine degeneration and LBP.
MiR-204 inhibits hepatocellular cancer drug resistance and metastasis through targeting NUAK1
Authors: Yu Yuhui , Wang Yongsheng , Xiao Xiangying , Cheng Wei , Hu Liqiang , Yao Weiyun , Qian Zhangxuan , Wu Wei
Published: February 2019

Liver cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Tumor response rate of liver cancer patients towards systemic chemotherapy is low and chemoresistance can easily develop. Identifying novel molecules that can repress drug resistance and metastasis of liver cancer will facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies. The aim of this study is to determine the roles of NUAK1 and miR-204 in the drug resistance and metastasis of liver cancer and to reveal their relationship. We found that NUAK1 was increased in the tumor of primary liver cancer. Knockdown of NUAK1 significantly inhibited cell growth and migration. Moreover, NUAK1 was the direct downstream target of miR-204, and there was clinical relevance between miR-204 down-regulation and NUAK1 up-regulation in liver cancer. Furthermore, we found that miR-204 increased drug sensitivity by down-regulating NUAK1 expression. Based on these results, we identified miR-204 as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting NUAK1 expression in liver cancer, indicating both miR-204 and NUAK1 may act as promising targets for liver cancer therapy.
Weighted composition operators between Fock spaces ℱ∞(ℂ) and ℱp(ℂ)
Authors: Khoi Le Hai , Thom Le Thi Hong , Tien Pham Trong
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we establish necessary and sufficient conditions for boundedness and compactness of weighted composition operators acting between Fock spaces [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. We also give complete descriptions of path connected components for the space of composition operators and the space of nonzero weighted composition operators in this context.
Hessian boundary measures
Authors: Nguyen Van Thien
Published: February 2019

We will study certain boundary measures related to [Formula: see text]-subharmonic functions on [Formula: see text]-hyperconvex domains. These measures generalize the boundary measures studied by Wan and Wang (see [Complex Hessian operator and Lelong number for unbounded [Formula: see text]-subharmonic functions, Potential. Anal. 44(1) (2016) 53–69]). For the case of plurisubharmonic functions ([Formula: see text]) the boundary measure has been studied by Cegrell and Kemppe (see [Monge–Ampère boundary measures, Ann. Polon. Math. 96 (2009) 175–196]).
A conformal fixed-point equation for the effective average action
Authors: Rosten Oliver J.
Published: February 2019

A Legendre transform of the recently discovered conformal fixed-point equation is constructed, providing an unintegrated equation encoding full conformal invariance within the framework of the effective average action.
Photoluminescence properties and threshold effect of ZnS:Ag nanoparticles synthesized by a hydrothermal process
Authors: Li Q. H. , Lin S. P. , Ma D. C. , Wang B.
Published: February 2019

Ag-doped ZnS nanoparticles were prepared by hydrothermal synthesis from the raw powders of thiourea, zinc acetate and silver nitrate. The effects of Ag[Formula: see text] on the structural, morphological, composition, elemental analysis and luminescence properties were investigated. The results showed that the powders were all found in the cubic sphalerite structure with an average particle size of approximately 40 nm. In addition, various Ag[Formula: see text] doping concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 3, 4, 7 and 10 at.%) were selected to study the optical properties of the ZnS nanoparticles. It was found that the photoluminescence (PL) spectra excited by 325 nm and X-ray showed a peak at 490 nm for all samples and exhibited concentration quenching behavior. The PL results also indicate that the most favorable silver doping concentration for emission is 3 at.%. These results suggested that ZnS:Ag (3 at.%) nanoparticles were promising candidate materials for certain areas, such as screen displays, scintillators and lasers.
Mechanisms of exciton photoluminescence quenching in the electric field of a standing surface acoustic wave
Authors: Gulyaev D. V. , Zhuravlev K. S.
Published: February 2019

Mechanisms of exciton photoluminescence (PL) quenching in the longitudinal electric field of a standing surface acoustic wave (SAW) have been studied by the example of type II GaAs/AlAs superlattices (SLs). Such SLs with a long lifetime of nonequilibrium carriers have allowed examining the influence of the SAW electric field on the excitonic PL both under the continuous and impulse laser excitations. It has been found that the mechanisms of the interaction of excitons and a SAW electric field depend upon the kinetic energy of excitons and carriers. As for hot excitons and carriers, the standing SAW electric field causes the impact ionization of excitons with a subsequent capture of free carriers at the nonradiative recombination centers, which results in a decrease in the steady-state exciton PL. As for cold excitons and carriers, the impact of excitons with the carriers accelerated by the SAW electric field results mainly in exciton delocalization from the levels of quantum wells formed due to interface roughness with a subsequent capture of excitons at the nonradiative recombination centers, which leads to the acceleration of the PL kinetics.
Computational analysis methods for complex unsteady flow problems
Authors: Bazilevs Yuri , Takizawa Kenji , Tezduyar Tayfun E.
Published: February 2019

In this lead paper of the special issue, we provide a brief summary of the stabilized and multiscale methods in fluid dynamics. We highlight the key features of the stabilized and multiscale scale methods, and variational methods in general, that make these approaches well suited for computational analysis of complex, unsteady flows encountered in modern science and engineering applications. We mainly focus on the recent developments. We discuss application of the variational multiscale (VMS) methods to fluid dynamics problems involving computational challenges associated with high-Reynolds-number flows, wall-bounded turbulent flows, flows on moving domains including subdomains in relative motion, fluid–structure interaction (FSI), and complex-fluid flows with FSI.
Emergent behaviors of continuous and discrete thermomechanical Cucker–Smale models on general digraphs
Authors: Dong Jiu-Gang , Ha Seung-Yeal , Kim Doheon
Published: February 2019

We present emergent dynamics of continuous and discrete thermomechanical Cucker–Smale (TCS) models equipped with temperature as an extra observable on general digraph. In previous literature, the emergent behaviors of the TCS models were mainly studied on a complete graph, or symmetric connected graphs. Under this symmetric setting, the total momentum is a conserved quantity. This determines the asymptotic velocity and temperature a priori using the initial data only. Moreover, this conservation law plays a crucial role in the flocking analysis based on the elementary [Formula: see text] energy estimates. In this paper, we consider a more general connection topology which is registered by a general digraph, and the weights between particles are given to be inversely proportional to the metric distance between them. Due to this possible symmetry breaking in communication, the total momentum is not a conserved quantity, and this lack of conservation law makes the asymptotic velocity and temperature depend on the whole history of solutions. To circumvent this lack of conservation laws, we instead employ some tools from matrix theory on the scrambling matrices and some detailed analysis on the state-transition matrices. We present two sufficient frameworks for the emergence of mono-cluster flockings on a digraph for the continuous and discrete models. Our sufficient frameworks are given in terms of system parameters and initial data.
Projectile mass and energy dependence of multifractal detrended cross-correlation analysis of pseudorapidity space and azimuthal space in high energy nuclear collisions
Authors: Chatterjee Sucharita , Ghosh Dipak , Dutta Srimonti
Published: February 2019

This paper studies the cross-correlation between the pseudorapidity and azimuthal distributions of the shower particles emitted in [Formula: see text]S-AgBr interactions at 200[Formula: see text]GeV and [Formula: see text]O-AgBr interactions at 60[Formula: see text]GeV applying Multifractal detrended cross-correlation analysis (MF-DXA) methodology. The cross-correlation between the pseudorapidity ([Formula: see text]) space and the azimuthal ([Formula: see text]) space is found to exhibit multifractality in case of both the interactions. The results obtained from the analysis of the experimental data were compared with those obtained for the randomly shuffled data for both the interactions, and the results revealed that the multifractality is due to the presence of long-range correlations. The study clearly indicates that the strength of the cross-correlation depends on both the projectile mass and energy.
On possible restrictions of the null ideal
Authors: Kumar Ashutosh , Shelah Saharon
Published: February 2019

We prove that the null ideal restricted to a non-null set of reals could be isomorphic to a variety of sigma ideals. Using this, we show that the following are consistent: (1) There is a non-null subset of plane each of whose non-null subsets contains three collinear points. (2) There is a partition of a non-null set of reals into null sets, each of size [Formula: see text], such that every transversal of this partition is null.
The Hilbert series of SL2-invariants
Authors: de Carvalho Cayres Pinto Pedro , Herbig Hans-Christian , Herden Daniel , Seaton Christopher
Published: February 2019

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite-dimensional representation of the group [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] matrices with complex coefficients and determinant one. Let [Formula: see text] be the algebra of [Formula: see text]-invariant polynomials on [Formula: see text]. We present a calculation of the Hilbert series [Formula: see text] as well as formulas for the first four coefficients of the Laurent expansion of [Formula: see text] at [Formula: see text].
Decoy state quantum-key-distribution by using odd coherent states without monitoring signal disturbance
Authors: Li Shujing , Liu Hui , Li Linguo
Published: February 2019

Recently, a novel quantum-key-distribution (QKD) protocol, called Round-robin-differential-phase-shift (RRDPS) QKD, has been proposed to share a secure key without monitoring the signal disturbance. In this paper, we propose a decoy state RRDPS-QKD protocol with odd coherent states (OCS). We implement a one-intensity decoy state method into the RRDPS-QKD with OCS to estimate the key rate. The results show that both the maximum transmission distance and the key rate of our protocol are significantly improved. Moreover, only one-intensity decoy state is sufficient for the protocol to approach the asymptotic limit with infinite decoy states.
The Omega limit set of a family of chords
Authors: Belbruno Edward , Frauenfelder Urs , van Koert Otto
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we study the limit behavior of a family of chords on compact energy hypersurfaces of a family of Hamiltonians. Under the assumption that the energy hypersurfaces are all of contact type, we give results on the Omega limit set of this family of chords. Roughly speaking, such a family must either end in a degeneracy, in which case it joins another family, or can be continued. This gives a Floer theoretic explanation of the behavior of certain families of symmetric periodic orbits in many well-known problems, including the restricted three-body problem.
Handheld diffuse optical breast scanner probe for cross-sectional imaging of breast tissue
Authors: Shokoufi Majid , Golnaraghi Farid
Published: February 2019

Diffuse optical spectroscopy is a relatively new, noninvasive and nonionizing technique for breast cancer diagnosis. In the present study, we have introduced a novel handheld diffuse optical breast scan (DOB-Scan) probe to measure optical properties of the breast in vivo and create functional and compositional images of the tissue. In addition, the probe gives more information about breast tissue’s constituents, which helps distinguish a healthy and cancerous tissue. Two symmetrical light sources, each including four different wavelengths, are used to illuminate the breast tissue. A high-resolution linear array detector measures the intensity of the back-scattered photons at different radial destinations from the illumination sources on the surface of the breast tissue, and a unique image reconstruction algorithm is used to create four cross-sectional images for four different wavelengths. Different from fiber optic-based illumination techniques, the proposed method in this paper integrates multi-wavelength light-emitting diodes to act as pencil beam sources into a scattering medium like breast tissue. This unique design and its compact structure reduce the complexity, size and cost of a potential probe. Although the introduced technique miniaturizes the probe, this study points to the reliability of this technique in the phantom study and clinical breast imaging. We have received ethical approval to test the DOB-Scan probe on patients and we are currently testing the DOB-Scan probe on subjects who are diagnosed with breast cancer.
Conditions of Dedekindness of generalized norms in nonperiodic groups
Authors: Lukashova T. D. , Drushlyak M. G. , Lyman F. M.
Published: February 2019

The authors consider generalized norms for different systems of infinite and noncyclic subgroups in nonperiodic groups. Relations between these norms are established. The conditions under which the given norms are Dedekind, in particular, central, are studied.
The pseudo-spectrum of operator pencils
Authors: Khellaf A. , Guebbai H. , Lemita S. , Aissaoui Z.
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we propose a new definition of the pseudo-spectrum for operator pencils, which is associated with two bounded operators [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] defined in a Hilbert space. Unlike other definitions available in the literature, we prove, under specific conditions on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], that the pseudo-spectrum for operator pencils is equal to an [Formula: see text]-neighborhood of the generalized spectrum. Moreover, we demonstrate how to use this concept to redefine the pseudo-spectrum of an unbounded operator. We illustrate its usefulness through a numerical example dealing with the Schrödinger operator.
Engineering behaviour and mechanical–empirical relationships for a problematic New Zealand tropical residual soil
Authors: Tatarniuk Catherine M. , Bowman Elisabeth T.
Published: February 2019

Unlike sedimentary clays, many tropical residual soils do not exhibit clear mechanical–empirical relationships to assist in their engineering characterization. In contrast, this paper discusses one residual clay in which such relationships may be determined, and further examines whether the effects of structure in this clay may be assessed using a framework previously developed for sedimentary clays. The Northland Allochthon tropical residual clay of New Zealand is a problematic soil of the fersiallitic type, prone to slope instability. Atterberg limit tests on soils from five field sites in the same geological unit show considerable variation, but that they are mechanically related. Laboratory element tests were performed on reconstituted and intact soil specimens from one field site. Normalization of the strength envelope using the equivalent stress on the intrinsic compression line suggests that soil structure, which is destroyed in reconstituted specimens, plays a role in the shear strength of this soil in its intact state. Overconsolidated behaviour, in the absence of geological preloading, points to the existence of a pseudo-preconsolidation pressure associated with weathering processes. The results further show that the saturated mechanical behaviour of this residual soil is in line with that of sedimentary clays and that mechanical–empirical relationships developed for such clays may be applied in this case.
Estrogen and voluntary exercise attenuate cardiometabolic syndrome and hepatic steatosis in ovariectomized rats fed a high-fat high-fructose diet
Authors: Buniam Jariya , Chukijrungroat Natsasi , Khamphaya Tanaporn , Weerachayaphorn Jittima , Saengsirisuwan Vitoon
Published: February 2019

The prevalence of cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS) is increased in women after menopause. While hormone replacement therapy has been prescribed to relieve several components of CMS in postmenopausal women, some aspects of cardiometabolic dysfunction cannot be completely restored. The present study examined the effectiveness of estrogen replacement alone and in combination with exercise by voluntary wheel running (VWR) for alleviating the risks of CMS, insulin-mediated skeletal muscle glucose transport, and hepatic fat accumulation in ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats fed a high-fat high-fructose diet (OHFFD). We compared a sham-operated group with OHFFD rats that were subdivided into a sedentary, estradiol replacement (E2), and E2plus VWR for 12 wk. E2prevented the development of insulin resistance in skeletal muscle glucose transport and decreased hepatic fat accumulation in OHFFD rats. Furthermore, E2treatment decreased visceral fat mass and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol in OHFFD rats, while VWR further decreased LDL-cholesterol and increased the ratio of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol to total cholesterol to a greater extent. Although E2treatment alone did not reduce serum triglyceride levels in OHFFD rats, the combined intervention of E2and VWR lowered serum triglycerides in E2-treated OHFFD rats. The addition of VWR to E2-treated OHFFD rats led to AMPK activation and upregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) coactivator-1α and PPARδ in skeletal muscle along with increased fatty acid oxidation and suppressed fatty acid synthesis in the liver. Collectively, our findings indicate that, to achieve greater health benefits, physical exercise is required for E2-treated individuals under ovarian hormone deprivation with high-energy consumption.
Assessment of pulsatile insulin secretion derived from peripheral plasma C-peptide concentrations by nonparametric stochastic deconvolution
Authors: Laurenti Marcello C. , Vella Adrian , Varghese Ron T. , Andrews James C. , Sharma Anu , Kittah Nana Esi , Rizza Robert A. , Matveyenko Aleksey , De Nicolao Giuseppe , Cobelli Claudio , Dalla Man Chiara
Published: February 2019

The characteristics of pulsatile insulin secretion are important determinants of type 2 diabetes pathophysiology, but they are understudied due to the difficulties in measuring pulsatile insulin secretion noninvasively. Deconvolution of either peripheral C-peptide or insulin concentrations offers an appealing alternative to hepatic vein catheterization. However, to do so, there are a series of methodological challenges to overcome. C-peptide has a relatively long half-life and accumulates in the circulation. On the other hand, peripheral insulin concentrations reflect relatively fast clearance and hepatic extraction as it leaves the portal circulation to enter the systemic circulation. We propose a method based on nonparametric stochastic deconvolution of C-peptide concentrations, using individually determined C-peptide kinetics, to overcome these limitations. The use of C-peptide (instead of insulin) concentrations allows estimation of portal (and not post-hepatic) insulin pulses, whereas nonparametric stochastic deconvolution allows evaluation of pulsatile signals without any a priori assumptions of pulse shape and occurrence. The only assumption required is the degree of smoothness of the (unknown) secretion rate. We tested this method first on simulated data and then on 29 nondiabetic subjects studied during euglycemia and hyperglycemia and compared our estimates with the profiles obtained from hepatic vein insulin concentrations. This method produced satisfactory results both in the ability to fit the data and in providing reliable estimates of pulsatile secretion, in agreement with hepatic vein measurements. In conclusion, the proposed method enables reliable and noninvasive measurement of pulsatile insulin secretion. Future studies will be needed to validate this method in people with type 2 diabetes.
Adaptive Receiver-Window Adjustment for Delay Reduction in LTE Networks
Authors: Adesh N. D. , Renuka A.
Published: February 2019

The cellular network keeps the vast capacity of queue space at eNodeBs (base stations) to reduce the queue overflow during the burst in data traffic. However, this adversely affects the delay sensitive applications and user quality of experience. Recently, few researchers have focused on reducing the packet delay, but it has a negative impact on the utilization of network resource by the users. Further, it fails to maintain fairness among the users, when competing for a shared resource in coexistence with conventional TCP or UDP users. Therefore, in this paper, the adaptive receiver-window adjustment (ARWA) algorithm is proposed to efficiently utilize the network resources and ensure fairness among the users in resource competitive environment, which requires slight modification of TCP at both the sender and receiver. The proposed mechanism dynamically varies the receiver window size based on the data rate and delay information of the packets, to enhance the performance of the system. Based on extensive experiments, the results illustrate that the ARWA algorithm reduces the delay of TCP packet and increases fairness among the users. In addition to that, it enhances the packet delivery fraction (PDF) and maintains the throughput of the system. Moreover, it competes with other conventional TCP users for the shared network resources in a fair manner.
A New Method to Calculate Induced Current of Thin Wire over Anisotropic Ground under HPM
Authors: Cao Le
Published: February 2019

The time response analysis of wire structures is often carried out in free space or isotropic half-space, but the real ground is usually layered and has anisotropic properties. In this paper, the induced current of a thin wire over layered anisotropic half-space under a high-power microwave (HPM) is calculated by using the time-domain integral equation (TDIE) method. The reflection coefficient of a layered anisotropic medium is obtained by the general transmitting matrix (GTM) method combined with Fourier transform. The variation of the induced current on the thin wire under different incident conditions is analyzed.
A Case of Syrian Child with Cerebral Infarction as an Extraintestinal Manifestation of Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Salloum Riham , Alhalabi Nawras , Almidani Mohamad Anas
Published: February 2019

Thromboembolic complications are rare but well-recognized manifestation of ulcerative colitis, especially because of their associated high mortality. We report a case of a Syrian child admitted to Damascus Hospital with a one-day complaint of sudden onset of numbness followed by weakness in the left lower and upper limbs, right mouth angle deviation, and loss of sphincters’ control. Earlier, she was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and treated with immunosuppressants. CT and MRI scans revealed focal infarction around the M2-M3 segments of the right middle cerebral artery; she was treated with Aspirin. On discharge, she had significant improved neurological examination and was able to walk. Subsequent proctocolectomy was performed. We highlight the importance of thromboembolism in ulcerative colitis as there is paucity in the literature regarding its management and its symptoms may be overlooked especially in high-load central hospitals. We conducted a brief literature search and summarized findings of similar reported cases.
A New Method forIn VivoAnalysis of the Performances of a Heat and Moisture Exchanger (HME) in Mechanically Ventilated Patients
Authors: Filippini Matteo , Serpelloni Mauro , Quaranta Valeria , Bellitti Paolo , Sardini Emilio , Latronico Nicola
Published: February 2019

Aim. To evaluate the conditioning capabilities of the DAR™ Hygrobac™ S, a Heat and Moisture Exchanger (HME), using a new device to measure the temperature (T) and the absolute humidity (AH) of the ventilated gasesin vivoduring mechanical ventilation in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients.Materials and Methods. In 49 mechanically ventilated ICU patients, we evaluated T and AH, indicating the HME efficacy, during the inspiratory phase upstream and downstream the HME and the ratio of inspired AH to expired AH and the difference between expired T and inspired T indicated the HME efficiency. Efficacy and efficiency were assessed at three time points: at baseline (t0, HME positioning time), at 12 hours (t1), and at 24 hours (t2) using a dedicated,ad hocbuilt wireless device. Differences over time were evaluated using one-way ANOVA for repeated measures, whereas differences betweenin vivoand laboratory values (declared by the manufacturer according to UNI® EN ISO 9360 international standard) were evaluated using one-sample Student t-test.Results. 49 HMEs were analysedin vivoduring mechanical ventilation. T and AH means (SD) of the inspired gas (the efficacy) were 31.5°C (1.54) and 32.3 mg/l (2.60) at t0, 31.1°C (1.34) and 31.7 mg/l (2.26) at t1, and 31°C (1.29) and 31.4 mg/l (2.27) at t2. Both efficiency parameters were constant over time (inspired AH/expired AH=89%, p=0.24; and expired T–inspired T = 2.2°C, p=0.81). Compared with laboratory values,in vivoT and AH indicating efficacy were significantly lower (p<0.01), whereas the efficiency was significantly higher (p<0.01).Conclusions. HME performances can be accurately assessed for prolonged periodsin vivoduring routine mechanical ventilation in ICU patients. Temperature and absolute humidity of ventilated gasesin vivowere maintained within the expected range and remained stable over time. HME efficacy and efficiencyin vivosignificantly differed from laboratory values.
Cerebral Vasculitis in Ulcerative Colitis Is Predominantly Venular: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Parks Paul T. , Easton Alexander S.
Published: February 2019

Extraintestinal complications of ulcerative colitis include isolated case reports of cerebral vasculitis. In this case report, we describe autopsy findings in a 50-year-old female who died as a result of massive multifocal cerebral hemorrhage. Microscopic examination of the left colon showed findings typical for ulcerative colitis. Examination of the brain showed an extensive vasculitis. More affected vessels were noted in grey matter than in white matter. Many showed fibrinoid necrosis, invasion by neutrophils and thrombosis. There was extensive perivascular hemorrhage with associated infarction. Vessel analysis shows most of the vessels to have been venous rather than arterial. There were no perivascular sleeves of demyelination to suggest a primary demyelinating disorder, such as acute hemorrhagic leucoencephalitis. Our analysis shows that veins are the likely target of cerebral vasculitis in ulcerative colitis. This has clinical implications because venous occlusion generally causes massive intracerebral hemorrhage with a high mortality.
AKT as a Therapeutic Target for Cancer
Authors: Song Mengqiu , Bode Ann M. , Dong Zigang , Lee Mee-Hyun
Published: February 2019

Many cellular processes in cancer are attributed to kinase signaling networks. V-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog (AKT) plays a major role in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. AKT is activated by PI3K or phosphoinositide-dependent kinases (PDK) as well as growth factors, inflammation, and DNA damage. Signal transduction occurs through downstream effectors such as mTOR, glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β), or forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1). The abnormal overexpression or activation of AKT has been observed in many cancers, including ovarian, lung, and pancreatic cancers, and is associated with increased cancer cell proliferation and survival. Therefore, targeting AKT could provide an important approach for cancer prevention and therapy. In this review, we discuss the rationale for targeting AKT and also provide details regarding synthetic and natural AKT-targeting compounds and their associated studies.