bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early postoperative delineation of residual tumor after low-grade glioma resection by probabilistic quantification of diffusion-weighted imaging
Authors: Scherer Moritz , Jungk Christine , Götz Michael , Kickingereder Philipp , Reuss David , Bendszus Martin , Maier-Hein Klaus , Unterberg Andreas
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

In WHO grade II low-grade gliomas (LGGs), early postoperative MRI (epMRI) may overestimate residual tumor on FLAIR sequences. Consequently, MRI at 3–6 months follow-up (fuMRI) is used for delineation of residual tumor. This study sought to evaluate if integration of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps permits an accurate estimation of residual tumor early on epMRI.

METHODS

From a consecutive cohort, 43 cases with an initial surgery for an LGG, and complete epMRI (< 72 hours after resection) and fuMRI including ADC maps, were retrospectively identified. Residual FLAIR hyperintense tumor was manually segmented on epMRI and corresponding ADC maps were coregistered. Using an expectation maximization algorithm, residual tumor segments were probabilistically clustered into areas of residual tumor, ischemia, or normal white matter (NWM) by fitting a mixture model of superimposed Gaussian curves to the ADC histogram. Tumor volumes from epMRI, clustering, and fuMRI were statistically compared and agreement analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Mean FLAIR hyperintensity suggesting residual tumor was significantly larger on epMRI compared to fuMRI (19.4 ± 16.5 ml vs 8.4 ± 10.2 ml, p < 0.0001). Probabilistic clustering of corresponding ADC histograms on epMRI identified subsegments that were interpreted as mean residual tumor (7.6 ± 10.2 ml), ischemia (8.1 ± 5.9 ml), and NWM (3.7 ± 4.9 ml). Therefore, mean tumor quantification error between epMRI and fuMRI was significantly reduced (11.0 ± 10.6 ml vs −0.8 ± 3.7 ml, p < 0.0001). Mean clustered tumor volumes on epMRI were no longer significantly different from the fuMRI reference (7.6 ± 10.2 ml vs 8.4 ± 10.2 ml, p = 0.16). Correlation (Pearson r = 0.96, p < 0.0001), concordance correlation coefficient (0.89, 95% confidence interval 0.83), and Bland-Altman analysis suggested strong agreement between both measures after clustering.

CONCLUSIONS

Probabilistic segmentation of ADC maps facilitates accurate assessment of residual tumor within 72 hours after LGG resection. Multiparametric image analysis detected FLAIR signal alterations attributable to surgical trauma, which led to overestimation of residual LGG on epMRI compared to fuMRI. The prognostic value and clinical impact of this method has to be evaluated in larger case series in the future.
Interval angioarchitectural evolution of brain arteriovenous malformations following rupture
Authors: Jin Hengwei , Lenck Stephanie , Krings Timo , Agid Ronit , Fang Yibin , Li Youxiang , Kostynskyy Alex , Tymianski Michael , Pereira Vitor Mendes , Radovanovic Ivan
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to describe changes in the angioarchitecture of brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) between acute and delayed cerebral digital subtraction angiography (DSA) obtained after hemorrhage, and to examine bAVM characteristics predicting change.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of a prospective institutional bAVM database. The authors included all patients with ruptured bAVMs who had DSA in both acute and delayed phases, with no interval treatment of their bAVM, between January 2000 and April 2017. The authors evaluated the existence or absence of angioarchitectural changes. Demographic data, radiological characteristics of hemorrhages, and angioarchitectural features of the bAVMs of the two patients’ groups were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses were performed to identify predictors of angioarchitectural change.

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients were included in the series. Seventeen (40.5%) patients had angioarchitectural changes including bAVM only visible on the delayed DSA study (n = 8), spontaneous thrombosis of the AVM (n = 3), or alteration of the size or the opacification of the nidus (n = 6). The factors associated with angioarchitectural changes were a small nidus (3.8 ± 7.9 ml vs 6.1 ± 9.5 ml, p = 0.046), a superficial location (94.1% vs 5.9%, p = 0.016), and a single superficial draining vein (58.8% vs 24.0%, p = 0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

Angioarchitectural changes can be seen in 40% of ruptured bAVMs between the acute- and delayed-phase DSA. A small nidus, a superficial location, and a single superficial draining vein were statistically associated with the occurrence of angioarchitectural changes. These changes included either enlargement or spontaneous occlusion of the bAVM, as well as subsequent diagnosis of a bAVM following an initial negative DSA study.
Nationwide survey of pediatric intracranial arteriovenous shunts in Japan: Japanese Pediatric Arteriovenous Shunts Study (JPAS)
Authors: Terada Aiko , Komiyama Masaki , Ishiguro Tomoya , Niimi Yasunari , Oishi Hidenori
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

This nationwide study was organized to evaluate the clinical characteristics, especially the annual detected rate, of pediatric intracranial arteriovenous (AV) shunts such as brain AV malformations (BAVMs), pial AV fistulas (PAVFs), vein of Galen aneurysmal malformations (VGAMs), and dural AV fistulas (DAVFs) in Japan.

METHODS

Participation invitation emails for the study were sent to all members of the Japanese Society for Neuroendovascular Therapy and the Japanese Society for Pediatric Neurosurgery, totaling 4123 physicians. Excel files were attached to the emails to collect clinical data on patients aged 5 years old or younger with intracranial AV shunts at each hospital in the 5-year period from 2012 to 2016.

RESULTS

Representative physicians from 209 hospitals returned Excel files containing the patient data. Thirty-four hospitals reported on 72 patients with intracranial AV shunts. Among this cohort, 24 patients (33%) had BAVMs, 22 (31%) had PAVFs, 16 (22%) had VGAMs, and 10 (14%) had DAVFs. Male predominance (70%) was observed among all types of AV shunts. Most PAVFs (73%), VGAMs (88%), and DAVFs (100%) were diagnosed in patients younger than 1 year, especially neonates, whereas most BAVMs (92%) were diagnosed in children older than 1 year. In the patients older than 1 year, BAVMs were relatively common, and VGAMs and DAVFs were rare.

CONCLUSIONS

The annual detected rates of BAVMs, PAVFs, VGAMs, and DAVFs in patients 5 years old or younger were 0.0775, 0.0710, 0.0517, and 0.0323 per 100,000 persons, respectively. In neonates and infants, VGAM, DAVF, and PAVF were relatively common, but BAVMs were extremely rare.
Исторические предпосылки формирования полистилистики в музыке.
Authors: Grybynenko Yuliia
Published: July 2018

В статье рассматриваются исторические предпосылки формирования полистилистики в музыке. Выделяются четыре этапа развития этого феномена: первый этап связан с техникой заимствования, продолжительное время имевшей отголоски в музыкальной культуре; второй этап — с эпохой романтизма, а конкретнее с возникновением в этот период авторского оригинального стилистически многосоставного музыкального тематизма; третий этап — с развитием неоклассицизма, с утверждением полистилистики как черты стиля; четвертый этап — связан с осознанием полистилистики как метода композиторского творчества, соответствующего намерению автора ввести свой замысел в общий стилевой контекст музыки.Ключевые слова: полистилистика, заимствование, адаптация, полижанровость, историческая горизонталь, надисторическая вертикаль.
Культурологические аспекты исследования киномузыки украинских композиторов
Authors: Ovsiannikova-Тrel Alexandra
Published: July 2018

В статье рассматривается значение киномузыки в творчестве украинских композиторов в культурологическом контексте. Обсуждаются истоки композиторской практики в украинском кинематографе и их влияние на последующее развитие киномузыки. Сделана попытка обозначить проблемное поле культурологического исследования киномузыки украинских композиторов (киномузыка как звучащая реальность, коммуникативная функция музыкально-звукового образа и т. п.), в том числе современных — В. Сильвестрова, О. Кивы, В. Губы, А. Щетинского.Ключевые слова: киномузыка, кинематограф, музыкально-звуковой образ, композиторская практика, авторская музыка, прикладная музыка.
Новые коммуникативно-прикладные функции классической музыки: к проблеме музыкальной субкультуры
Authors: Fedorova Oleksandra
Published: July 2018

Статья посвящена изучению современного массового музыкально-коммуникативного пространства. Рассматриваются вопросы функционирования классической музыки в пределах коммуникативно-прикладного жанра «классика в современной обработке» и современных субкультурных направлений. Ставится проблема теоретической дифференциации музыкальной формы и её стратификации в границах жанра.Ключевые слова: классическая музыка, классика в современной обработке, массовая музыкальная культура, субкультура, жанр.
Категорія «концепту» в парадигмі європейської та китайської музичної культури
Authors: Tseu Lew
Published: July 2018

У статті зіставляються провідні концепти європейської та китайської традиції, що проектуються на художньо-естетичний світогляд китайських музикантів і композиторів. Категорія «концепту» в її проекції на музичне начало видається в цьому ракурсі цілком доречною, оскільки дозволяє вловити глибинний рівень змісту, який, хоч і присвоює собі в значній мірі специфіку європейського художнього мислення, все ж у своєму первинному значенні завжди спирається на національне світовідчуття у його духовно-філософських вимірах, у його особливому способі поєднання музичної інтонації та слова.Ключові слова: концепт, концептосфера, національна музична культура, домінанта концепту.
Тріо-сонати А. Вівальді та Г. Телемана в світлі взаємодії та протистояння італо-німецьких художніх традицій
Authors: Polianska Tamara
Published: July 2018

У статті дано порівняння Тріо-сонат Г. Телемана (D-dur) і А. Вівальді (g-moll) в спрямуванні на прослідковування специфіки німецької та італійської традиції у трактовці цього жанру. Ключові слова: тріо-соната, інструменталізм, церковна соната, бароко.
Партия лорда Артура в опере «Пуритане» Беллини как средоточие лирики в героическом амплуа тенорового пения
Authors: Fanyong Du
Published: July 2018

В статье рассматриваются исполнительские особенности партии лорда Артура в опере «Пуритане» Беллини с позиции выявления лирического начала в героическом амплуа тенорового пения. В качестве аналитической основы избирается интонационный принцип анализа с акцентуацией стилево-компаративного подхода и подчеркиванием герменевтического ракурса указанного интонационного видения природы музыкальной выразительности в русле асафьевской музыковедческой школы в украинском музыкознании.Ключевые слова: героическое амплуа, лирическое начало, традиции тенорового пения, интонационная основа музыки.
Восточно-христианская культура в определении путей развития европейской музыкально-исторической традиции
Authors: Muravska Olha
Published: July 2018

Статья посвящена анализу аспектов взаимодействия и взаимо­влияния восточно-христианской и западноевропейской культур на базе широкого смыслового и культурно-исторического спектра понимания феномена «икономии». Сложившийся на его основе патриархально-ортодоксальный тип культуры составил базис существенного пласта европейской музыкально-исторической традиции XIX–XX ст. и ее жанрово-стилевых поисков.Ключевые слова: икономия, домостроительство, патриархально-ортодоксальный тип культуры, музыка и высокий бидермайер.
Типологические черты китайской камерно-вокальной лирики в свете актуальных музыковедческих подходов
Authors: Yuthen Liu
Published: July 2018

Главной целью статьи становится определение ведущих принципов музыковедческой синологии в сфере камерной вокальной музыки и обоснование приоритетных жанрово-стилевых признаков камерной вокальной миниатюры в творчестве китайских композиторов. Раскрывается значение песенного жанра в становлении китайской профессиональной композиторской школы и специфического национального (китайского) типа авторского, то есть личностного, музыкального сознания. Устанавливается тот «вертикальный горизонт» (словообраз И. Бродского), который указывает на уровень возникновения художественной «макроконцепции» – необходимого фактора формирования китайской камерно-вокальной академической традиции.Ключевые слова: национальная традиция, ценностная художественная морфология, историко-культурный диалог,  китайское поэтическое слово, китайское мифопоэтическое мышление, китайская музыкально-поэтическая лирика.
Из опыта комментария к текстам музыкантов: «медленное чтение» или чтение с остановками?
Authors: Tyshko Serhiy
Published: July 2018

В статье в очередной раз аргументируется разрабатываемый автором подход к комментарию вербальных и музыкальных текстов. Характеризуются пути современной модификации известного метода «медленного чтения» и его превращение в метод «чтения с остановками». На материале нескольких комментариев, относящихся к самым различным сферам музыкознания и музыкальной культурологии (факты биографий М.И.Глинки и А.С.Пушкина, отношение к обиходному напеву в одном из песнопений «Всенощного бдения» С.В.Рахманинова, переломный момент в творческой биографии пианиста В.С.Горовица и проч.), продемонстрирована жизнеспособность предложенной автором концепции комментария и, в частности, возможность с ее помощью по-новому интерпретировать тексты музыкантов.Ключевые слова: комментарий, текст, медленное чтение, чтение с остановками, биография.
Явление и понятие канона как основа православной богослужебно-певческой традиции: от канонической формы к «духу творчества»
Authors: Osadcha Svitlana
Published: July 2018

Статья посвящена рассмотрению явления и понятия канона как основы православной певческой традиции. Выявляется, что каноническую форму следует понимать как форму, созданную внутри традиции, внутри жизни канона и под его непосредственным влиянием, что позволяет рассматривать канон как необходимую основу для богослужебно-певческого творчества.Ключевые слова: канон, каноническая форма, богослужебно-певческая традиция, культ, церковность.
Концептуальна система сучасного вітчизняного музикознавства
Authors: Marik Valeriya
Published: July 2018

Музикознавство є цілісною, разом з тим, відкритою системою знань, один з важливих методологічних інструментів для дослідження якої надає концептологія. Змодельована в статті концептуальна система сучасного вітчизняного музикознавства є альтернативною існуючій системі знань, одночасно, доповнює її, прояснює, і дозволяє дослідникові знаходити практично безмежні можливості для виявлення смислових інтенцій в музичному мистецтві. Особливу увагу автор приділяє питанню структуризації науки про музику. Ключові слова: концепт, смисл, концептуальна система, система знань, система понять, структура музикознавства, розділи музикознавчого знання, концепти музикознавства.
Соната для виолончели и фортепиано № 1 Альфреда Шнитке в контексте эволюции авторского стиля
Authors: Grybynenko Yuliia
Published: July 2018

Статья посвящена рассмотрению образно-смысловых, композиционно-драматургических и жанрово-стилевых особенностей первой виолончельной сонаты А. Шнитке в контексте эволюции его композиторского мышления. Акцентируется внимание на драматургических приемах, специфике и диапазоне языковых средств, на особенностях трактовки выразительных возможностей инструментов, на образном строе сочинения, как этапного на новом витке эволюции авторского стиля композитора. Ключевые слова: виолончельная соната, А. Шнитке, интонационное единство, моностилистика, пауза.
Емоційний інтелект музиканта-інструменталіста і транзитивність художньо-естетичних емоцій в концертно-комунікативній ситуації
Authors: Yergieva Оlena
Published: July 2018

У статті розроблено проблему впливу емоційного інтелекту на транзитивність художньо-естетичного смислу музичного твору в процесі його виконання в сучасній жанрово-стилістичній концертно-комунікативній ситуації. Вказані методи розвитку емоційного інтелекту музиканта як важливої складової артистичної техніки виконавця. Виявлено три щаблі розвитку емоційного інтелекту, які сприяють успішній творчій реалізації музиканта в соціумі.Ключові слова: асоціювання, візуалізація, відпускання емоцій, депрограмування, емоційний інтелект, емоційне мислення, емоційна обдарованість, емоційний словник, перепрограмування.
Мир музыкальной игры Мориса Равеля
Authors: Marushko Anastasiya
Published: July 2018

В данной статье осуществляется попытка анализа образной сферы и структуры произведений М. Равеля на предмет выявлений общих игровых тенденций как с точки зрения формообразования, так и с точки зрения специфики взаимодействия игры и музыкальной культуры. Игра здесь рассматривается как структурный элемент, и как художественный прием, имманентный музыкальным произведениям М. Равеля. Игровой равелевский феномен уточняет и углубляет представления о музыкально-исполнительском интерпретативном мышлении как о форме игры, непосредственно представляющей эстетическую ценность.Ключевые слова: игра и культура, медиальные свойства игры, тема детства, идея ключ, игра как эстетическая ценность
Самодиалог сознания артиста мюзикла как профессионально-личностный фактор автопоэзиса
Authors: Oganezova-Grigorenko Olha
Published: July 2018

В статье даны результаты анализа профессионального творческого процесса артиста мюзикла  как имманентной работы сознания артиста, направленной на самоактуализацию. Самодиалог сознания артиста мюзикла представлен как профессионально-личностный фактор автопоэзиса системы. Имманентное содержание автопоэзиса обеспечивает взаимодействие трех аспектов творческого существования артиста: «Я - личность», «Я – роль-образ», «Я - зритель». Самодиалог сознания артиста мюзикла представлен  как процесс самоорганизации психофизического аппарата артиста, направленный на рождение роли-образа и на достижение высшей точки чувственного слияния личности артиста и персонажа - переживание катарсиса в исполнении роли-образа. Ключевые слова: автопоэзис, самодиалог сознания, имманентное содержание автопоэзиса.
Засади формування фортепіанних концертно-виконавських традицій Західної України в контексті полінаціональних соціокультурних процесів
Authors: Fedchun Tetyana
Published: July 2018

Статья посвящена рассмотрению главных принципов формирования фортепианных концертно-исполнительских традиций Западной Украины в контексте полинациональних социокультурных процессов. Прослеживаются исторические, политические и социальные факторы, которые служили почвой для формирования поликультурных художественных традиций на землях Западной Украины.Ключевые слова: концертно-исполнительская традиция, полинациональные социокультурные процессы, львовская фортепианная школа.
Феномен романтической виртуозности и фортепианное творчество Ш. В. Алькана
Authors: Gultsova Diana
Published: July 2018

Статья посвящена анализу феномена романтической виртуозности в контексте западноевропейской культурно-исторической и музыкальной традиции, а также ее проекциям на творческую личность и фортепианное наследие Ш. В. Алькана. Анализ жанрово-стилевой специфики его этюдов и сонаты «Четыре возраста» свидетельствует об органичной связи автора с традициями западноевропейского музыкального романтизма с показательным для него «трансцендентным типом виртуозности».Ключевые слова: виртуоз, виртуозность, романтизм, трансцендентный тип виртуозности, этюды Ш. В. Алькана, Соната «Четыре возраста».
Жанр арии в коррегировании методологических измерений преподавания вокала в высшей школе
Authors: Kadantseva Nataliya
Published: July 2018

Тема исследования определена вокальной практикой профессионального певческого искусства, в котором апробация идей, техники, тематики творчества осуществлялась на базе классики вокальных жанров, охватывающих через типологию арии и камерное, и оперное пение, которые исторически сосуществуют в неразрывной связи на оперной сцене. И этот генетический фактор вокальной подготовки корригирует методологию преподавания в музыкальной высшей школе.Ключевые слова: ария, вокал, методология преподавания в высшей школе, опера, belcanto.
Каприччио как понятие и явление
Authors: Tientyan Zhang
Published: July 2018

Цель работы. В статье раскрывается многообразие, а также определяется содержание явления и понятия «каприччио» в музыке, живописи, литературе и кинематографе. Методология исследования заключается в использовании комплексного и историко-теоретического методов, что позволило дать характеристику понятия «каприччио» в различных аспектах, концентрируясь на его этимологии. Научная новизна статьи заключается в расширении представлений о сущности понятия «каприччио», в предложении собственного определения жанра. Выводы. Рассуждения о природе понятия и явления «каприччио» помогают раскрыть его существенные черты, определить его постоянно изменяющийся, вбирающий все новые и новые жанровые свойства характер.
Improved Parameter Identification Method for Envelope Current Signals Based on Windowed Interpolation FFT and DE Algorithm
Authors: Su Xiangfeng , Zhang Huaiqing , Chen Lin , Qin Ling , Yu Lili
Published: July 2018

Envelope current signals are increasingly emerging in power systems, and their parameter identification is particularly necessary for accurate measurement of electrical energy. In order to analyze the envelope current signal, the harmonic parameters, as well as the envelope parameters, need to be calculated. The interpolation fast Fourier transform (FFT) is a widely used approach which can estimate the signal frequency with high precision, but it cannot calculate the envelope parameters of the signal. Therefore, this paper proposes an improved method based on windowed interpolation FFT (WIFFT) and differential evolution (DE). The amplitude and phase parameters obtained through WIFFT and the envelope parameters estimated by the envelope analysis are optimized using the DE algorithm, which makes full use of the performance advantage of DE. The simulation results show that the proposed method can improve the accuracy of the harmonic parameters and the envelope parameter significantly. In addition, it has good anti-noise ability and high precision.
Magnetocaloric Effect in Non-Interactive Electron Systems: “The Landau Problem” and Its Extension to Quantum Dots
Authors: Negrete Oscar A. , Peña Francisco J. , Florez Juan M. , Vargas Patricio
Published: July 2018

In this work, we report the magnetocaloric effect (MCE) in two systems of non-interactive particles: the first corresponds to the Landau problem case and the second the case of an electron in a quantum dot subjected to a parabolic confinement potential. In the first scenario, we realize that the effect is totally different from what happens when the degeneracy of a single electron confined in a magnetic field is not taken into account. In particular, when the degeneracy of the system is negligible, the magnetocaloric effect cools the system, while in the other case, when the degeneracy is strong, the system heats up. For the second case, we study the competition between the characteristic frequency of the potential trap and the cyclotron frequency to find the optimal region that maximizes the ΔT of the magnetocaloric effect, and due to the strong degeneracy of this problem, the results are in coherence with those obtained for the Landau problem. Finally, we consider the case of a transition from a normal MCE to an inverse one and back to normal as a function of temperature. This is due to the competition between the diamagnetic and paramagnetic response when the electron spin in the formulation is included.
Quantum Dynamics and Non-Local Effects Behind Ion Transition States during Permeation in Membrane Channel Proteins
Authors: Summhammer Johann , Sulyok Georg , Bernroider Gustav
Published: July 2018

We present a comparison of a classical and a quantum mechanical calculation of the motion of K+ ions in the highly conserved KcsA selectivity filter motive of voltage gated ion channels. We first show that the de Broglie wavelength of thermal ions is not much smaller than the periodic structure of Coulomb potentials in the nano-pore model of the selectivity filter. This implies that an ion may no longer be viewed to be at one exact position at a given time but can better be described by a quantum mechanical wave function. Based on first principle methods, we demonstrate solutions of a non-linear Schrödinger model that provide insight into the role of short-lived (~1 ps) coherent ion transition states and attribute an important role to subsequent decoherence and the associated quantum to classical transition for permeating ions. It is found that short coherences are not just beneficial but also necessary to explain the fast-directed permeation of ions through the potential barriers of the filter. Certain aspects of quantum dynamics and non-local effects appear to be indispensable to resolve the discrepancy between potential barrier height, as reported from classical thermodynamics, and experimentally observed transition rates of ions through channel proteins.
A Novel Index Based on Binary Entropy to Confirm the Spatial Expansion Degree of Urban Sprawl
Authors: Chen Zhen , Zhou Yinkang , Jin Xiaobin
Published: July 2018

The phenomenon of urban sprawl has received much attention. Accurately confirming the spatial expansion degree of urban sprawl (SEDUS) is a prerequisite to controlling urban sprawl. However, there is no reliable metric to accurately measure SEDUS. In this paper, based on binary entropy, we propose a new index named the spatial expansion degree index (SEDI), to overcome this difficulty. The study shows that the new index can accurately determine SEDUS and, compared with other commonly used measures, the new index has an obvious advantage in measuring SEDUS. The new index belongs to the second-order metrics of point pattern analysis, and greatly extends the concept of entropy. The new index can also be applied to other spatial differentiation research from a broader perspective. Although the new index is influenced by the scaling problem, because of small differences between different scales, given that the partition scheme in the research process is the same, the new index is a quite robust method for measuring SEDUS.
Voltage Support Experimental Analysis of a Low-Voltage Ride-Through Strategy Applied to Grid-Connected Distributed Inverters
Authors: Garnica Miguel , García de Vicuña Luís , Miret Jaume , Camacho Antonio , Guzmán Ramón
Published: July 2018

In recent decades, different control strategies have been designed for the increasing integration of distributed generation systems. These systems, most of them based on renewable energies, use electronic converters to exchange power with the grid. Capabilities such as low-voltage ride-through and reactive current injection have been experimentally explored and reported in many research papers with a single inverter; however, these capabilities have not been examined in depth in a scenario with multiple inverters connected to the grid. Only few simulation works that include certain methods of reactive power control to solve overvoltage issues in low voltage grids can be found in the literature. Therefore, the overall objective of the work presented in this paper is to provide an experimental analysis of a low-voltage ride-through strategy applied to distributed power generation systems to help support the grid during voltage sags. The amount of reactive power will depend on the capability of each inverter and the amount of generated active power. The obtained experimental results demonstrate that, depending on the configuration of distributed generation, diverse inverters could have different control strategies. In the same way, the discussion of these results shows that the present object of study is of great interest for future research.
Ensemble Recurrent Neural Network Based Probabilistic Wind Speed Forecasting Approach
Authors: Cheng Lilin , Zang Haixiang , Ding Tao , Sun Rong , Wang Miaomiao , Wei Zhinong , Sun Guoqiang
Published: July 2018

Wind energy is a commonly utilized renewable energy source, due to its merits of extensive distribution and rich reserves. However, as wind speed fluctuates violently and uncertainly at all times, wind power integration may affect the security and stability of power system. In this study, we propose an ensemble model for probabilistic wind speed forecasting. It consists of wavelet threshold denoising (WTD), recurrent neural network (RNN) and adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). Firstly, WTD smooths the wind speed series in order to better capture its variation trend. Secondly, RNNs with different architectures are trained on the denoising datasets, operating as sub-models for point wind speed forecasting. Thirdly, ANFIS is innovatively established as the top layer of the entire ensemble model to compute the final point prediction result, in order to take full advantages of a limited number of deep-learning-based sub-models. Lastly, variances are obtained from sub-models and then prediction intervals of probabilistic forecasting can be calculated, where the variances inventively consist of modeling and forecasting uncertainties. The proposed ensemble model is established and verified on less than one-hour-ahead ultra-short-term wind speed forecasting. We compare it with other soft computing models. The results indicate the feasibility and superiority of the proposed model in both point and probabilistic wind speed forecasting.
A Novel High Efficiency Quasi-Resonant Converter
Authors: Zhu Tianyu , Wang Jianze , Ji Yanchao , Liu Yiqi
Published: July 2018

In this paper, a new constant-frequency quasi-resonant converter is proposed. Compared with the traditional LLC converter, the proposed converter can effectively reduce the range of the operating frequency. The output voltage is changed to adjust the reactance of the resonant cavity. The proposed converter has a better loss factor. To verify the theoretical analysis and soft-switching condition, a 250 W, 100 V output prototype was built and compared with the full-bridge LLC converter. Analysis and experimental results verify that a smaller operating frequency range and volume of the transformers, a soft-switching condition, and a higher overall efficiency are achieved with the proposed converter.
Traces of Traces: Time, Space, Objects, and the Forensic Turn in Photography
Authors: Lowe Paul
Published: July 2018

Images of atrocity are deeply problematic, in that they potentially create a tension between form and content and are often accused of re-victimization, aesthetization of suffering, compassion fatigue and exploitation. As an alternative, therefore, there is considerable potential in examining images associated with atrocity that do not depict the actual act of violence or the victim itself, but rather depict the material presence of the spaces and objects involved in such acts. The temporality of the photograph is also fluid in this type of approach. This paper considers the work of four photographers (Edmund Clark, Ashley Gilbertson, Shannon Jensen, and Fred Ramos) who have used a “forensic aesthetic” in their practice.
Assessment of the Impact of Climate Change on Daily Extreme Peak and Low Flows of Zenne Basin in Belgium
Authors: Leta Olkeba Tolessa , Bauwens Willy
Published: July 2018

Integrating hydrology with climate is essential for a better understanding of the impact of present and future climate on hydrological extremes, which may cause frequent flooding, drought, and shortage of water supply. This study assessed the impact of future climate change on the hydrological extremes (peak and low flows) of the Zenne river basin (Belgium). The objectives were to assess how climate change impacts basin-wide extreme flows and to provide a detailed overview of the impacts of four future climate change scenarios compared to the control (baseline) values. The scenarios are high (wet) summer (projects a future with high storm rain in summer), high (wet) winter (predicts a future with high rainfall in winter), mean (considers a future with intermediate climate conditions), and low (dry) (projects a future with low rainfall during winter and summer). These scenarios were projected by using the Climate Change Impact on HYDRological extremes perturbation tool (CCI-HYDR), which was (primarily) developed for Belgium to study climate change. We used the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model to predict the impact of climate change on hydrological extremes by the 2050s (2036–2065) and the 2080s (2066–2095) by perturbing the historical daily data of 1961–1990. We found that the four climate change scenarios show quite different impacts on extreme peak and low flows. The extreme peak flows are expected to increase by as much as 109% under the wet summer scenario, which could increase adverse effects, such as flooding and disturbance of the riverine ecosystem functioning of the river. On the other hand, the low (dry) scenario is projected to cause a significant decrease in both daily extreme peak and low flows, by as much as 169% when compared to the control values, which would cause problems, such as droughts, reduction in agricultural crop productivity, and increase in drinking water and other water use demands. More importantly, larger negative changes in low flows are predicted in the downstream part of the basin where a higher groundwater contribution is expected, indicating the sensitivity of a basin to the impact of climate change may vary spatially and depend on basin characteristic. Overall, an amplified, as well as an earlier, occurrence of hydrological droughts is expected towards the end of this century, suggesting that water resources managers, planners, and decision makers should prepare appropriate mitigation measures for climate change for the Zenne and similar basins.
Preventing Healthcare-Associated Legionellosis: Results after 3 Years of Continuous Disinfection of Hot Water with Monochloramine and an Effective Water Safety Plan
Authors: Coniglio Maria Anna , Ferrante Margherita , Yassin Mohamed H.
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this study is to report the experience of the implementation and application of a 3-year Water Safety Plan (WSP) together with the secondary disinfection of water by monochloramine to control and prevent healthcare-associated legionellosis in an Italian hospital strongly colonized by Legionella. Risk assessment was carried out by the WSP team. The main critical control points focused on in developing the WSP for the control of Legionella was the water distribution system. A sampling plan for the detection of Legionella was implemented. A widespread contamination of the hot water distribution system by L. pneumophila sg5 was found. Results after 3 years of the continuous disinfection of hot water with monochloramine indicate the eradication of Legionella. The implementation and application of a WSP in a hospital, together with the disinfection of the water distribution system with monochloramine, can be effective in controlling the growth of Legionella and in preventing nosocomial legionellosis.
The Opportunities and Challenges of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors Ligands in Clinical Drug Discovery and Development
Authors: Hong Fan , Xu Pengfei , Zhai Yonggong
Published: July 2018

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a well-known pharmacological target for the treatment of multiple diseases, including diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular diseases and even primary biliary cholangitis, gout, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The three PPAR isoforms (α, β/δ and γ) have emerged as integrators of glucose and lipid metabolic signaling networks. Typically, PPARα is activated by fibrates, which are commonly used therapeutic agents in the treatment of dyslipidemia. The pharmacological activators of PPARγ include thiazolidinediones (TZDs), which are insulin sensitizers used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), despite some drawbacks. In this review, we summarize 84 types of PPAR synthetic ligands introduced to date for the treatment of metabolic and other diseases and provide a comprehensive analysis of the current applications and problems of these ligands in clinical drug discovery and development.
A Rice B-Box Protein, OsBBX14, Finely Regulates Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Rice
Authors: Kim Da-Hye , Park Sangkyu , Lee Jong-Yeol , Ha Sun-Hwa , Lee Jun-Gu , Lim Sun-Hyung
Published: July 2018

Anthocyanins are responsible pigments for giving attractive colors of plant organs and nutraceutical benefits of grains. Anthocyanin biosynthesis is known to be regulated by transcription factors and other regulatory proteins. In rice (Oryza sativa), the R2R3 MYB transcription factor (TF) OsC1 and a bHLH TF, OsB2, were previously reported to control anthocyanin biosynthesis in vegetative tissues and seeds, respectively; however, the regulatory mechanisms of the anthocyanin biosynthesis by TFs remain largely unknown. In this study, we identified OsBBX14, a homolog of Arabidopsis thaliana B-box domain protein 22 (AtBBX22), and investigated its function. The transcript level of OsBBX14 was high in pigmented rice seeds and gradually increased as the seeds matured. The ectopic expression of OsBBX14 in Arabidopsis resulted in a dramatic increase in anthocyanin accumulation in its seedlings. Using a steroid receptor-based inducible activation system, OsBBX14 and OsHY5 were found to directly activate OsC1 or OsB2 in an independent or collaborative manner. Yeast two hybrid revealed that the second B-box domain of OsBBX14 physically interacts with the bZIP domain of OsHY5. These results suggest that the anthocyanin biosynthesis in rice is induced and finely tuned by OsBBX14 in collaboration with OsHY5.
Mesotheliomas in Genetically Engineered Mice Unravel Mechanism of Mesothelial Carcinogenesis
Authors: Jean Didier , Jaurand Marie-Claude
Published: July 2018

Malignant mesothelioma (MM), a rare and severe cancer, mainly caused as a result of past-asbestos exposure, is presently a public health concern. Current molecular studies aim to improve the outcome of the disease, providing efficient therapies based on the principles of precision medicine. To model the molecular profile of human malignant mesothelioma, animal models have been developed in rodents, wild type animals and genetically engineered mice harbouring mutations in tumour suppressor genes, especially selecting genes known to be inactivated in human malignant mesothelioma. Animals were either exposed or not exposed to asbestos or to other carcinogenic fibres, to understand the mechanism of action of fibres at the molecular level, and the role of the selected genes in mesothelial carcinogenesis. The aim of the manuscript was to compare mesothelioma models to human malignant mesothelioma and to specify the clue genes playing a role in mesothelial carcinogenesis. Collectively, MM models recapitulate the clinical features of human MM. At least two altered genes are needed to induce malignant mesothelioma in mice. Two pathways regulated by Cdkn2a and Trp53 seem independent key players in mesothelial carcinogenesis. Other genes and pathways appear as bona fide modulators of the neoplastic transformation.
Pre-Harvest Treatment of Chitosan Oligosaccharides Improved Strawberry Fruit Quality
Authors: He Yanqiu , Bose Santosh Kumar , Wang Wenxia , Jia Xiaochen , Lu Hang , Yin Heng
Published: July 2018

Chitosan oligosaccharide (COS), derived through hydrolysis of chitosan, has been proved to be an effective plant immunity elicitor, eco-friendly, and easily soluble in water, and influenced several secondary metabolites content to improve fruit qualities. COS are widely used in agriculture to improve the defense response in plants. The purpose of this study was to investigate the pre-harvest treatment effect of COS on the quality of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa cv.qingxiang). COS was dissolved in distilled water at a concentration of 50 mg·L−1 and sprayed at four different growth stages of strawberry plants, namely seedling stage, before flowering, fruit coloring (the stage of fruit from white to red) and full bloom. Uniform size, shape, color, without any visible damage, and disease-free fruits were harvested for determining the quality. The results showed that the fruit firmness, viscosity, lignin, sugars, protein, total soluble solid, and titratable acidity content increased in COS-treated fruits compared to control. In addition, COS pre-harvest treatment had a positive effect on anthocyanin, total phenol, flavonoid, vitamin C content and DPPH(2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging activity of strawberry. Moreover, COS also increased the cell wall composition and regulated gene expression of some important enzymes involved in ethylene compound biosynthesis and cell wall degradation. The finding of this study suggests that pre-harvest application of COS is very useful for improving quality and antioxidant capacity of strawberry.
Harmful Effects and Potential Benefits of Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α on the Liver
Authors: Lopetuso Loris Riccardo , Mocci Giammarco , Marzo Manuela , D’Aversa Francesca , Rapaccini Gian Lodovico , Guidi Luisa , Armuzzi Alessandro , Gasbarrini Antonio , Papa Alfredo
Published: July 2018

Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α agents represent an effective treatment for chronic inflammatory diseases. However, some concerns about their potentially undesirable effects on liver function have been reported. On the other hand, evidence of their therapeutic effects on certain liver diseases is accumulating. Many data showed the safety of anti-TNF-α in patients with chronic hepatitis B and C and in liver transplanted patients even if a strict follow-up and prophylaxis are recommended in well-defined subgroups. On the other side, anti-TNF-α-induced liver injury is not a rare event. However, it is often reversible after anti-TNF-α withdrawal. Anti-TNF-α agents have been tested in advanced stages of severe alcoholic hepatitis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Limited data on the efficacy of anti-TNF-α in patients with autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis are also available. In this review, we explored the hepatic safety concerns in patients receiving anti-TNF-α agents with and without pre-existent hepatic diseases. In addition, the available evidence on their potential benefits in the treatment of specific hepatic diseases is discussed.
Rab38 Mutation and the Lung Phenotype
Authors: Osanai Kazuhiro
Published: July 2018

Rab38 is highly expressed in alveolar type II cells, melanocytes, and platelets. These cells are specifically-differentiated cells and contain characteristic intracellular organelles called lysosome-related organelles, i.e., lamellar bodies in alveolar type II cells, melanosomes in melanocytes, and dense granules in platelets. There are Rab38-mutant rodents, i.e., chocolate mice and Ruby rats. While chocolate mice only show oculocutaneous albinism, Ruby rats show oculocutaneous albinism and prolonged bleeding time and, hence, are a rat model of Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS). Most patients with HPS suffer from fatal interstitial pneumonia by middle age. The lungs of both chocolate mice and Ruby rats show remarkably increased amounts of lung surfactant and conspicuously enlarged lysosome-related organelles, i.e., lamellar bodies, which are also characteristic of the lungs in human HPS. There are 16 mutant HPS-mouse strains, of which ten mutant genes have been identified to be causative in patients with HPS thus far. The gene products of eight of the ten genes constitute one of the three protein complexes, i.e., biogenesis of lysosome-related organelle complex-1, -2, -3 (BLOC-1, -2, -3). Patients with HPS of the mutant BLOC-3 genotype develop interstitial pneumonia. Recently, BLOC-3 has been elucidated to be a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rab38. Growing evidence suggests that Rab38 is an additional candidate gene of human HPS that displays the lung phenotype.
Leveraging Distrust Relations to Improve Bayesian Personalized Ranking
Authors: Xu Yangjun , Xu Ke , Cai Yi , Min Huaqing
Published: July 2018

Distrust based recommender systems have drawn much more attention and became widely acceptable in recent years. Previous works have investigated using trust information to establish better models for rating prediction, but there is a lack of methods using distrust relations to derive more accurate ranking-based models. In this article, we develop a novel model, named TNDBPR (Trust Neutral Distrust Bayesian Personalized Ranking), which simultaneously leverages trust, distrust, and neutral relations for item ranking. The experimental results on Epinions dataset suggest that TNDBPR by leveraging trust and distrust relations can substantially increase various performance evaluations including F1 score, AUC, Precision, Recall, and NDCG.
Biocompatibility of 3D-Printed Methacrylate for Hearing Devices
Authors: Alifui-Segbaya Frank , George Roy
Published: July 2018

The capacity of 3D printing (3DP) technologies to initiate speedy polymerization of solvent-free resins accounts for their utility in the manufacturing of medical devices. Nonetheless, independent biological evaluation of 3D-printed materials is recommended due to the unique parameters of the manufacturing process, which can influence their physical, chemical and biological properties. In this study, E-Shell 450 clear methacrylate indicated for 3DP of hearing devices was examined for biological safety using zebrafish bioassays adapted to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) fish embryo test. In addition, the proprietary material was characterized for composition using headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). To initiate the biological test, newly fertilized zebrafish eggs were cultured on non-treated and ethanol-treated methacrylates in glass petri dishes with ultrapure water, incubated at 28.5 °C and assessed for developmental endpoints of toxicity at 24 h intervals until 96 h. Toxicological data indicate that non-treated methacrylate is extremely toxic in zebrafish bioassays, whereas ethanol-treated counterpart showed a relative lower toxicity possibly due to ethanoic–aqueous interactions as observed by GC–MS. With the current influx of 3D printing materials, users are urged to exercise caution. Operators must also take cognizance of the potential toxicity of the chemicals used in 3DP and implement safety measures to limit their exposure.
A Straightforward Substitution Strategy to Tune BODIPY Dyes Spanning the Near-Infrared Region via Suzuki–Miyaura Cross-Coupling
Authors: Li Guanglei , Otsuka Yu , Matsumiya Takuya , Suzuki Toshiyuki , Li Jianye , Takahashi Masashi , Yamada Koji
Published: July 2018

In this study, a series of new red and near-infrared (NIR) dyes derived from 4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene (BODIPY) were developed by introducing thiophene and its derivatives to the 3- and 5- positions of the dichloroBODIPY core. For the first time, cyclictriol boronates and N-methyliminodiacetic acid (MIDA) boronate were used as organoboron species to couple with 3,5-dichloroBODIPY via the one-step Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling. Six kinds of thieno-expended BODIPY dyes were synthesized in acceptable yields ranging from 31% to 79%. All six dyes showed different absorption and emission wavelengths spanning a wide range (c.a. 600–850 nm) in the red and NIR regions with relatively high quantum yields (19–85%). Cellular imaging of 8-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-re3,5-di(2-thienyl)-BODIPY (dye 1) was conducted using bovine cumulus cells, and the fluorescence microscopy images indicated that the chromophore efficiently accumulated and was exclusively localized in the cytoplasm, suggesting it could be utilized as a subcellular probe. All six dyes were characterized using 1H-NMR and mass spectrometry.