bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rewriting Minimizations for Efficient Query Answering over Ontologies
Authors: Venetis Tassos , Stoilos Giorgos , Vassalos Vasilis
Published: October 2017

Computing a (Union of Conjunctive Queries — UCQ) rewriting ℛ for an input query and ontology and evaluating it over the given dataset is a prominent approach to query answering over ontologies. However, ℛ can be large and complex in structure hence additional techniques, like query subsumption and data constraints, need to be employed in order to minimize ℛ and lead to an efficient evaluation. Although sound in theory, how to efficiently and effectively implement many of these techniques in practice could be challenging. For example, many systems do not implement query subsumption. In the current paper we present several practical techniques for UCQ rewriting minimization. First, we present an optimized algorithm for eliminating redundant (w.r.t. subsumption) queries as well as a novel framework for rewriting minimization using data constraints. Second, we show how these techniques can also be used to speed up the computation of ℛ in first place. Third, we integrated all our techniques in our query rewriting system IQAROS and conducted an extensive experimental evaluation using many artificial as well as challenging real-world ontologies obtaining encouraging results as, in the vast majority of cases, our system is more efficient compared to the two most popular state-of-the-art systems.
Aharonov–Bohm effect for bound states in relativistic scalar particle systems in a spacetime with a spacelike dislocation
Authors: Vitória R. L. L. , Bakke K.
Published: October 2017

We investigate the analog effect of the Aharonov–Bohm effect for bound states in two relativistic quantum systems in a spacetime with a spacelike dislocation. We assume that the topological defect has an internal magnetic flux. Then, we analyze the interaction of a charged particle with a uniform magnetic field in this topological defect spacetime, and thus, we extend this analysis to the confinement of a hard-wall potential and a linear scalar potential. Later, the interaction of the Klein–Gordon oscillator with a uniform magnetic field is analyzed. We first focus on the effects of torsion that stem from the spacetime with a spacelike dislocation and the geometric quantum phase. Then, we analyze the effects of torsion and the geometric quantum phase under the presence of a hard-wall potential and a linear scalar potential.
STRUCTURAL AND ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES OF Pd AND Au MONOLAYERS ADSORBED ON MoS2: A COMPARATIVE STUDY FROM DFT CALCULATIONS
Authors: WU PING , YIN NAIQIANG , CHENG WENJING , LI PENG
Published: October 2017

The morphology, stability and electronic properties of Pd and Au monolayers supported by MoS2 substrate have been investigated by using the first principles calculations based on periodic density functional theory (DFT). The results demonstrated that the most stable site is top of Mo top of S ([Formula: see text]) for the adsorption of Pd and Au monolayers on MoS2. We found that Pd/MoS2 with lower adsorption energy of [Formula: see text]0.54[Formula: see text]eV is energetically more stable than Au/MoS2. Due to the emergence of impurities state in the bandgap of MoS2, Pd/MoS2 and Au/MoS2 display metallic character upon coating of metal monolayers. We demonstrated that the Pd monolayer strongly hybrids with underlying Mo and S around the Fermi level, which is achieved by the intermediate Pd–S–Mo hybridized chains. On the contrary, intensity of impurities states around the fermi level is much weaker for Au/MoS2, which can be explained by weak hybridizations between sp state of Au and 4[Formula: see text] state of nearest neighboring Mo. The calculated results demonstrated that work functions are markedly modulated to 4.99 and 6.23[Formula: see text]eV after coating of Pd and Au monolayer, respectively, which can be qualitatively explained by the fact that Pd (as accepter) received charge from the MoS2 host, while Au donated charge to the host. These findings promise potential applications in the fields of nanoelectronics in future, such as it's helpful to choose suitable electrode materials for MoS2-based nanodevices.
ZnS FILM PROPERTIES MODIFICATION USING OBLIQUE ANGLE DEPOSITION TECHNIQUE
Authors: ASHRAFI M. MOLLA ALI , DIZAJI H. REZAGHOLIPOUR , EHSANI M. H. , MOGHADAM R. ZAREI
Published: October 2017

In this study, zinc sulfide thin films were deposited on glass substrates at room temperature by vacuum thermal evaporation using oblique angle deposition technique. The samples were prepared at different incident vapor flow angles 0∘, 65∘, and 85∘. The samples were studied using various characterization techniques. The film crystallinity was found very sensitive to the growth angle. Atomic force microscope images of the samples were used to investigate their morphology and surface roughness. The images of samples obtained by the field emission scanning electron microscopy technique showed that the produced samples had columnar structures with columns tilting toward the incident vapor flow direction. Optical constants were calculated by using the data obtained from UV–Vis analysis.
Finite groups with many values in a column of the character table
Authors: Tiep Pham Huu , Tong-Viet Hung P.
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we classify all finite groups whose character tables have some column with pairwise distinct values.
Automatic segmentation and classification of olive fruits batches based on discrete wavelet transform and visual perceptual texture features
Authors: Nashat Ahmed A. , Hassan N. M. Hussain
Published: October 2017

The quality of olive fruit and its virgin olive oil is a main concern for consumers and fruit industrial companies. The effectiveness and fast detection of olive’s skin defects is the most decisive factor in determining its quality. It is necessary to design and implement image processing tools for segmentation and correct classification of the different fresh incoming olive batches. In this paper, we propose a new automatic image segmentation algorithm, based on discrete wavelets transform. The aim of the segmentation algorithm is to discriminate between olives and the background with the challenge of irregular and dispersive lesion borders, low contrast, artifacts in the olive fruit and variety of colors within the interest region. The second part of our work proposes a scheme for olive fruit classification. The classifier first identifies the olive fruit color and then, based upon discrete wavelets transform and Tamura statistical texture features, the healthy olive fruit is distinguished from the damaged one. The new texture feature vector is, then, compared with the robust Local Binary Pattern feature vector. The simplicity of our segmentation and classification algorithms makes them appropriate for designing a productive and profitable computer vision machine.
Reconstructing f(R) gravity from a Chaplygin scalar field in de Sitter spacetimes
Authors: Sami Heba , Namane Neo , Ntahompagaze Joseph , Elmardi Maye , Abebe Amare
Published: October 2017

We present a reconstruction technique for models of [Formula: see text] gravity from the Chaplygin scalar field in flat de Sitter spacetimes. Exploiting the equivalence between [Formula: see text] gravity and scalar–tensor (ST) theories, and treating the Chaplygin gas (CG) as a scalar field model in a universe without conventional matter forms, the Lagrangian densities for the [Formula: see text] action are derived. Exact [Formula: see text] models and corresponding scalar field potentials are obtained for asymptotically de Sitter spacetimes in early and late cosmological expansion histories. It is shown that the reconstructed [Formula: see text] models all have General Relativity (GR) as a limiting solution.
A Hodge–de Rham Dirac operator on the quantum SU(2)
Authors: Di Cosmo Fabio , Marmo Giuseppe , Pérez-Pardo Juan Manuel , Zampini Alessandro
Published: October 2017

We describe how it is possible to define a Hodge–de Rham Dirac operator associated to a suitable Cartan-Killing metric form upon the exterior algebra over the quantum spheres [Formula: see text] equipped with a three-dimensional left covariant calculus.
Thermodynamics of specific modified gravity with generalized interaction term
Authors: Jawad Abdul , Rani Shamaila , Nawaz Tanzeela
Published: October 2017

We investigate the generalized second law of thermodynamics by assuming the interaction of dark energy and dark matter in Chern–Simons modified gravity. We consider a family of holographic dark energy models by assuming its various cutoffs such as Hubble horizon, event horizon, their combination, Ricci scalar and its generalized form. The general criteria of generalized second law of thermodynamics in terms of coincidence parameter is being developed. This criterion is being applied for the above-mentioned holographic dark energy models to check the validity of the generalized second law of thermodynamics and the constraints where it is respected are referred.
Supercharacters and mixed moments of Kloosterman sums
Authors: Chávez Ángel , Todd George
Published: October 2017

Recent work has realized Kloosterman sums as supercharacter values of a supercharacter theory on [Formula: see text]. We use this realization to express fourth degree mixed power moments of Kloosterman sums in terms of the trace of Frobenius of a certain elliptic curve.
p-Bernoulli and geometric polynomials
Authors: Kargın Levent
Published: October 2017

We relate geometric polynomials and [Formula: see text]-Bernoulli polynomials with an integral representation, then obtain several properties of [Formula: see text]-Bernoulli polynomials. These results yield new identities for Bernoulli numbers. Moreover, we evaluate a Faulhaber-type summation in terms of [Formula: see text]-Bernoulli polynomials. Finally, we introduce poly-[Formula: see text]-Bernoulli polynomials and numbers, then study some arithmetical and number theoretical properties of them.
Differences of subgroups in subgroups
Authors: Shkredov I. D.
Published: October 2017

We prove, in particular, that if [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] are two arbitrary multiplicative subgroups satisfying [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text]. Also, we obtain that for any [Formula: see text] and a sufficiently large subgroup [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] there is no representation [Formula: see text] as [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is another subgroup, and [Formula: see text] is an arbitrary set, [Formula: see text]. Finally, we study the number of collinear triples containing in a set of [Formula: see text] and prove a variant of sum–product estimate.
On prime factors of the sum of two k-Fibonacci numbers
Authors: Gómez Ruiz Carlos Alexis , Luca Florian
Published: October 2017

We consider for integers [Formula: see text] the [Formula: see text]-generalized Fibonacci sequences [Formula: see text], whose first [Formula: see text] terms are [Formula: see text] and each term afterwards is the sum of the preceding [Formula: see text] terms. We give a lower bound for the largest prime factor of the sum of two terms in [Formula: see text]. As a consequence of our main result, for every fixed finite set of primes [Formula: see text], there are only finitely many positive integers [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]-integers which are a non-trivial sum of two [Formula: see text]-Fibonacci numbers, and all these are effectively computable.
Three-Dimensional Porous Carbon Nanotube Papers as Current Collector and Buffer for SnO2 Anodes
Authors: Sun Xiaogang , Qiu Zhiwen , Chen Long , Cai Manyuan , Wang Jie , Li Xu , Chen Wei , Liu Zhenhong , Tang Hao
Published: October 2017

A novel three-dimensional porous conductive papers have been successfully synthesized via a simple physical route. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)@SnO2 composite anode materials are embedded in porous conductive papers. The peculiar structure can accommodate the huge volume expansion of MWCNTs@SnO2 composite anode materials during charge–discharge process. The framework formed by MWCNTs and cellulose can greatly improve the strength, stability and flexibility of the electrode. In addition, the structure successfully prevent the aggregation of SnO2 nanoparticles and collapse of MWCNTs@SnO2 composite electrode, leading to the improvement in electrochemical utilization and stable cyclability. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. The electrochemical properties and application were evaluated by galvanostatic discharge–charge testing and cycling voltammetry. As a result, the MWCNTs@SnO2 composite electrode showed excellent rate performance. The discharge capacity remains about 680[Formula: see text]mAh g[Formula: see text] after 100 cycles at 200[Formula: see text]mA g[Formula: see text], and even around 300[Formula: see text]mAh g[Formula: see text] at 1000[Formula: see text]mA g[Formula: see text].
A mathematical model of circadian rhythms synchronization using fractional differential equations system of coupled van der Pol oscillators
Authors: Escalante-Martínez J. E. , Gómez-Aguilar J. F. , Calderón-Ramón C. , Aguilar-Meléndez A. , Padilla-Longoria P.
Published: October 2017

This paper presents an alternative representation of a system of differential equations qualitatively showing the behavior of the biological rhythm of a crayfish during their transition from juvenile to adult stages. The model focuses on the interaction of four cellular oscillators coupled by diffusion of a hormone, a parameter [Formula: see text] is used to simulate the quality of communication among the oscillators, in biological terms, it measures developmental maturity of the crayfish. Since some quorum-sensing mechanism is assumed to be responsible for the synchronization of the biological oscillators, it is natural to investigate the possibility that the underlying diffusion process is not standard, i.e. it may be a so-called anomalous diffusion. In this case, it is well understood that diffusion equations with fractional derivatives describe these processes in a more realistic way. The alternative formulation of these equations contains fractional operators of Liouville–Caputo and Caputo–Fabrizio type. The numerical simulations of the equations reflect synchronization of ultradian rhythms leading to a circadian rhythm. The classical behavior is recovered when the order of the fractional derivative is [Formula: see text]. We discuss possible biological implications.
β-g-Compactness and β-g-stability in ditopological texture spaces
Authors: Parimala M. , Udhayakumar R.
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this paper is to introduce and study new notions of continuity, compactness and stability in ditopological texture spaces based on the notions of [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-open and [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-closed sets and some of their characterizations are obtained.
Characterizing 2-distance graphs
Authors: Ching Ramuel P. , Garces I. J. L.
Published: October 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite simple graph. The [Formula: see text]-distance graph [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is the graph with the same vertex set as [Formula: see text] and two vertices are adjacent if and only if their distance in [Formula: see text] is exactly [Formula: see text]. A graph [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-distance graph if there exists a graph [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we give three characterizations of [Formula: see text]-distance graphs, and find all graphs [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is an integer, [Formula: see text] is the path of order [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] is the complete graph of order [Formula: see text].
Martin L. Perl (1927–2014): A Biographical Memoir
Authors: Feldman Gary , Jaros John , Schindler Rafe H.
Published: October 2017

Particle physicist Martin Lewis Perl was recognized worldwide for his discovery of the τ (tau) lepton. For that achievement he received the 1982 Wolf Prize and shared the 1995 Nobel Prize in Physics. He was also a Fellow of the American Physical Society and a member of the National Academy of Sciences (elected 1981).

Martin's distinctive approach to scientific investigation had its origins in his upbringing and in the influence of I. I. Rabi, his graduate advisor at Columbia University.

After coming to Stanford University in 1963, Martin sought to understand why there should be two and only two families of leptons: the electron and its associated neutrino; and the muon and the muon neutrino. His discovery of the τ provided evidence for a third family of fundamental leptons. The bottom quark was discovered shortly afterward at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, providing evidence for a third family of quarks. Direct evidence for the τ neutrino came later, thereby completing the third lepton generation, while the discovery of the top quark in 1995 completed the third generation of quarks. These achievements established leptons and quarks as fundamental constituents of matter and, along with the fundamental forces, provided the experimental basis of the “Standard Model,” our picture of how all matter is made up and how its components interact. Why there are three and only three families of leptons and quarks remains an unsolved mystery to this day.
Exercise limitations in heart failure with reduced and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Poole David C. , Richardson Russell S. , Haykowsky Mark J. , Hirai Daniel M. , Musch Timothy I.
Published: October 2017

The hallmark symptom of chronic heart failure (HF) is severe exercise intolerance. Impaired perfusive and diffusive O2 transport are two of the major determinants of reduced physical capacity and lowered maximal O2 uptake in patients with HF. It has now become evident that this syndrome manifests at least two different phenotypic variations: heart failure with preserved or reduced ejection fraction (HFpEF and HFrEF, respectively). Unlike HFrEF, however, there is currently limited understanding of HFpEF pathophysiology, leading to a lack of effective pharmacological treatments for this subpopulation. This brief review focuses on the disturbances within the O2 transport pathway resulting in limited exercise capacity in both HFpEF and HFrEF. Evidence from human and animal research reveals HF-induced impairments in both perfusive and diffusive O2 conductances identifying potential targets for clinical intervention. Specifically, utilization of different experimental approaches in humans (e.g., small vs. large muscle mass exercise) and animals (e.g., intravital microscopy and phosphorescence quenching) has provided important clues to elucidating these pathophysiological mechanisms. Adaptations within the skeletal muscle O2 delivery-utilization system following established and emerging therapies (e.g., exercise training and inorganic nitrate supplementation, respectively) are discussed. Resolution of the underlying mechanisms of skeletal muscle dysfunction and exercise intolerance is essential for the development and refinement of the most effective treatments for patients with HF.
Use of OCT Angiography in Choroidal Melanocytic Tumors
Authors: Toledo Juan J. , Asencio-Duran Mónica , García-Martinez Jesús R. , López-Gaona Alejandro
Published: October 2017

Objective. To describe OCTA findings in choroidal melanocytic tumors, especially the microcirculation patterns, and to try to correlate with the histopathological studies. Methods. Cross-sectional, comparative, observational study. 70 cases, including 55 choroidal nevi and 15 choroidal melanomas. Three different observers evaluated specific variables in the choriocapillaris layer on AOCT images and searched for images which described histopathologic vascular patterns, and also, a general description of the images was made. Complementary multi-imaging studies included EDI SD-OCT, color and autofluorescence fundus imaging, Doppler ultrasound, and indocyanine/fluorescein angiography. Main Results. Good quality studies were acquired in 80% of the cases, with kappa indexes 0.768–0.958. Nevus OCTA images were described mainly as hyperreflective (72.7%), whereas choroidal melanoma as iso/hyporeflective (62.5%). Avascular areas were found in 50.96% and in 33.3% of choroidal nevus and choroidal melanomas, respectively. A neovascular membrane was found only in cases of choroidal nevus (16.3%). Only in cases of choroidal melanomas, we found vascular loops (6.6%) or vascular networks (6.6%). Conclusion. OCTA is a promising new technology that can be used to study in vivo the differential characteristics of microcirculations between posterior segment melanocytic lesions. Today, larger studies are needed to corroborate these findings and to correlate it with malignancy.
A Novel Floating Memristor Emulator with Minimal Components
Authors: Li Zhijun , Zeng Yicheng , Ma Minglin
Published: October 2017

A new floating emulator for the flux-controlled memristor is introduced in this paper. The proposed emulator circuit is very simple and consists of only two current feedback operational amplifiers (CFOAs), two analog multipliers, three resistors, and two capacitors. The emulator can be configured as an incremental or decremental type memristor by using an additional switch. The mathematical model of the emulator is derived to characterize its behavior. The hysteresis behavior of the emulator is discussed in detail, showing that the pinched hysteresis loops in v-i plane depend not only on the amplitude-to-frequency ratio of the exciting signal but also on the time constant of the emulator circuit itself. Experimental tests are provided to validate the emulator’s workability.
Metals in Fishes from Yongshu Island, Southern South China Sea: Human Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Wu Zhai , Xu Ye , Cai Minggang , Cheng Sha-Yen , Chen Huorong , Huang Dongren , Chen Kai , Lin Yan , Li Tianyao , Liu Mengyang , Deng Hengxiang , Ni Minjie , Ke Hongwei
Published: October 2017

In order to assess the bioaccumulation of metals associated with gender, tissues, and their potential ecological risk, four species of fish were collected from the Yongshu Island in the Southern South China Sea. Metals and stable Pb isotopes in their tissues (muscle, gill, liver, intestine, and ovary) were determined. The concentrations of metals (mg/kg, dry weight) in these species were ND–21.60 (Cd), 1.21–4.87 (Cr), 0.42–22.4 (Cu), 1.01–51.8 (Mn), 0.30–3.28 (Ni), 6.04–1.29 × 103 (Zn), 14.89–1.40 × 103 (Fe), and 0.22–3.36 (Pb). In general, the liver and intestine absorbed more metals than the other tissues. Metals accumulation can be influenced by gender and feeding behavior and in fact, female fish and dietary exposure are more prone to accumulate metals. In addition, Pb isotopic ratios indicated that all species had significant biological fractionation, which may not make them good tracers for source identification. The metal concentrations of most samples were lower than the national standard values of the FAO (USA), which suggested that human consumption of these species may not cause health risks. However, since the surrounding areas are developing rapidly, the potential environmental risk of metals will intensify and should receive more attention.
Numerical Analysis of Joule Heating Behavior and Residual Compressive Stress around Crack Tip under High Electric Load
Authors: Liu Thomas Jin-Chee
Published: October 2017

This paper discusses the Joule heating effect and residual compressive stress near the crack tip under the electro-thermo-structural coupling state. For the crack tip field, the compressive condition is important for retarding or stopping the crack growth.
The Role of AChE in Swimming Behavior of Daphnia magna: Correlation Analysis of Both Parameters Affected by Deltamethrin and Methomyl Exposure
Authors: Ren Qing , Zhao Ruibin , Wang Cheng , Li Shangge , Zhang Tingting , Ren Zongming , Yang Meiyi , Pan Hongwei , Xu Shiguo , Zhu Jianping , Wang Xun
Published: October 2017

The unpredictable toxicity of insecticides may cause behavior disorder of biological organisms. In order to assess the role of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in swimming behavior of Daphnia magna, a correlation analysis of both parameters in 24 h exposure of deltamethrin (DM) and methomyl (MT) was investigated. The behavior responses of D. magna in DM (13.36 μg/L and 33.40 μg/L) and MT (19.66 μg/L and 49.15 μg/L) suggested that recovery behavior in the adjustment phase was crucial, and behavior homeostasis provided them with an optimal way to achieve a wider tolerance against environmental stress. During the experiment, positive effects on AChE activity occurred in the beginning of the exposure. Even though the de novo synthesis of AChE in D. magna might help it recover, the AChE inhibition in different treatments could be observed. Some induction effects on AChE activity at the beginning of exposure occurred, and a 50% decrease may cause toxic effects on behavior. In most treatments, the results showed that both behavior strength and AChE activity stayed in the same field within a correlation circle. These results illustrated that the environmental stress caused by both DM and MT could inhibit AChE activity and subsequently induce a stepwise behavior response, though both pesticides affect it as direct and indirect inhibitors, respectively.
Rapid Detection and Identification of miRNAs by Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Using Hollow Au Nanoflowers Substrates
Authors: Cao Xiaowei , Bao Min , Shan Yibo , Li Wei , Shi Hongcan
Published: October 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are recognized as regulators of gene expression during the biological processes of cells as well as biomarkers of many diseases. Development of rapid and sensitive miRNA profiling methods is crucial for evaluating the pattern of miRNA expression related to normal and diseased states. This work presents a novel hollow Au nanoflowers (HAuNFs) substrate for rapid detection and identification of miRNAs by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy. We synthesized the HAuNFs by a seed-mediated growth approach. Then, HAuNFs substrates were fabricated by depositing HAuNFs onto the surfaces of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane- (APTES-) functionalized ITO glass. The result demonstrated that HAuNFs substrates had very good reproducibility, homogeneous SERS activity, and high SERS effect. The substrates enabled us to successfully obtain the SERS spectra of miR-10a-5p, miR-125a-5p, and miR-196a-5p. The difference spectra among the three kinds of miRNAs were studied to better interpret the spectral differences and identify miRNA expression patterns with high accuracy. The principal component analysis (PCA) of the SERS spectra was used to distinguish among the three kinds of miRNAs. Considering its time efficiency, being label-free, and its sensitivity, the SERS based on HAuNFs substrates is very promising for miRNA research and plays an important role in early disease detection and prevention.
A New Augmented Lagrangian Method for Equality Constrained Optimization with Simple Unconstrained Subproblem
Authors: Zhang Hao , Ni Qin
Published: October 2017

We propose a new method for equality constrained optimization based on augmented Lagrangian method. We construct an unconstrained subproblem by adding an adaptive quadratic term to the quadratic model of augmented Lagrangian function. In each iteration, we solve this unconstrained subproblem to obtain the trial step. The main feature of this work is that the subproblem can be more easily solved. Numerical results show that this method is effective.
Derivation of the Mathematical Approach to the Radial Pump’s Meridional Channel Design Based on the Controlment of the Medial Axis
Authors: Lu Yeming , Wang Xiaofang , Xie Rong
Published: October 2017

The meridional channel is the base for designing the radial pumps, and a new design approach is proposed here. Different from the previous studies, research here tries to establish the design model simply controlled with the radial coordinate. With the combination of a series of mathematical equations, the new design approach can shape the meridional contours directly by using the initial design variables. As for the mathematical constraint in the new design approach, it was presented in two forms, and each form had its corresponding solution. For the first form (Constraint I), the midpoints of the design points on the hub and shroud contours were thought to be located on the medial axis, and the PSO algorithm was adopted to search for the suitable results. Continually, to accelerate the design process, the second form (Constraint II) to simplify the mathematical constraint was added, and the explicit mathematical expressions calculating the coordinates on the hub and shroud contours were deduced. Finally, to check out the feasibility of the design approach in engineering, it was applied to redesign some typical meridional channels proposed by previous studies, and, through comparative analysis, the effectiveness of the new approach was evaluated and demonstrated.
A Study of Traditional Chinese Medicine Body Constitution Associated with Overweight, Obesity, and Underweight
Authors: Li Mihui , Mo Shuming , Lv Yubao , Tang Zihui , Dong Jingcheng
Published: October 2017

Objective. The aim of the study was to investigate the associations among the nine types of body constitution in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with the outcomes of overweight, obesity, and underweight. Method. Participants aged 30 to 90 years were recruited from communities in Shanghai and assessed using a self‐administered questionnaire pertaining to their demographics, lifestyles, and self‐reported medical history. The data of 3748 participants with complete information was available for the analysis. Multinomial logistic regression (MLR) analysis was performed to determine the associations among the TCM constitution variables and the health outcomes. Results. The standards of classification and determination of the constitution in TCM were used to gauge the patients’ constitution type. MLR revealed independent and significant associations among the Qi_Deficient and Yang_Deficient groups with the outcomes of overweight, obesity, and underweight (P < 0.10 for all). MLR revealed independent and significant associations among the Qi_Deficient and Yang_Deficient groups with the outcomes of overweight, obesity, and underweight (P < 0.05 for all). Conclusion. Our study revealed significant negative correlations between the Qi_Deficient and Yang_Deficient groups with the outcomes of overweight, obesity, and underweight. On the other hand, positive correlations were found between Phlegm_Dampness and the outcomes of overweight and obesity.
An Approach to Classical Quantum Field Theory Based on the Geometry of Locally Conformally Flat Space-Time
Authors: Mashford John
Published: October 2017

This paper gives an introduction to certain classical physical theories described in the context of locally Minkowskian causal structures (LMCSs). For simplicity of exposition we consider LMCSs which have locally Euclidean topology (i.e., are manifolds) and hence are Möbius structures. We describe natural principal bundle structures associated with Möbius structures. Fermion fields are associated with sections of vector bundles associated with the principal bundles while interaction fields (bosons) are associated with endomorphisms of the space of fermion fields. Classical quantum field theory (the Dirac equation and Maxwell’s equations) is obtained by considering representations of the structure group K⊂SU(2,2) of a principal bundle associated with a given Möbius structure where K, while being a subset of SU(2,2), is also isomorphic to SL2,C×U(1). The analysis requires the use of an intertwining operator between the action of K on R4 and the adjoint action of K on su⁡(2,2) and it is shown that the Feynman slash operator, in the chiral representation for the Dirac gamma matrices, has this intertwining property.
Analysis and Design of Adaptive Synchronization of a Complex Dynamical Network with Time‐Delayed Nodes and Coupling Delays
Authors: Miao Yu , Liang He , Haiyun Zhao , Zhigang Chen , Junyan Yi
Published: October 2017

This paper is devoted to the study of synchronization problems in uncertain dynamical networks with time‐delayed nodes and coupling delays. First, a complex dynamical network model with time‐delayed nodes and coupling delays is given. Second, for a complex dynamical network with known or unknown but bounded nonlinear couplings, an adaptive controller is designed, which can ensure that the state of a dynamical network asymptotically synchronizes at the individual node state locally or globally in an arbitrary specified network. Then, the Lyapunov‐Krasovskii stability theory is employed to estimate the network coupling parameters. The main results provide sufficient conditions for synchronization under local or global circumstances, respectively. Finally, two typical examples are given, using the M‐G system as the nodes of the ring dynamical network and second‐order nodes in the dynamical network with time‐varying communication delays and switching communication topologies, which illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed controller design methods.
Slower Dynamics and Aged Mitochondria in Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Martín-Maestro Patricia , Gargini Ricardo , García Esther , Perry George , Avila Jesús , García-Escudero Vega
Published: October 2017

Sporadic Alzheimer’s disease corresponds to 95% of cases whose origin is multifactorial and elusive. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a major feature of Alzheimer’s pathology, which might be one of the early events that trigger downstream principal events. Here, we show that multiple genes that control mitochondrial homeostasis, including fission and fusion, are downregulated in Alzheimer’s patients. Additionally, we demonstrate that some of these dysregulations, such as diminished DLP1 levels and its mitochondrial localization, as well as reduced STOML2 and MFN2 fusion protein levels, take place in fibroblasts from sporadic Alzheimer’s disease patients. The analysis of mitochondrial network disruption using CCCP indicates that the patients’ fibroblasts exhibit slower dynamics and mitochondrial membrane potential recovery. These defects lead to strong accumulation of aged mitochondria in Alzheimer’s fibroblasts. Accordingly, the analysis of autophagy and mitophagy involved genes in the patients demonstrates a downregulation indicating that the recycling mechanism of these aged mitochondria might be impaired. Our data reinforce the idea that mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the key early events of the disease intimately related with aging.
Developing a Tile-Based Rendering Method to Improve Rendering Speed of 3D Geospatial Data with HTML5 and WebGL
Authors: Kang Seokchan , Lee Jiyeong
Published: October 2017

A dedicated plug-in has been installed to visualize three-dimensional (3D) city modeling spatial data in web-based applications. However, plug-in methods are gradually becoming obsolete, owing to their limited performance with respect to installation errors, unsupported cross-browsers, and security vulnerability. Particularly, in 2015, the NPAPI service was terminated in most existing web browsers except Internet Explorer. To overcome these problems, the HTML5/WebGL (next-generation web standard, confirmed in October 2014) technology emerged. In particular, WebGL is able to display 3D spatial data without plug-ins in browsers. In this study, we attempted to identify the requirements and limitations of displaying 3D city modeling spatial data using HTML5/WebGL, and we propose alternative ways based on the bin-packing algorithm that aggregates individual 3D city modeling data including buildings in tile units. The proposed method reduces the operational complexity and the number and volume of transmissions required for rendering processing to improve the speed of 3D data rendering. The proposed method was validated on real data for evaluating its effectiveness in 3D visualization of city modeling data in web-based applications.
Expert Panel Statement on Laparoscopic Living Donor Hepatectomy
Authors: Han Ho-Seong , Cho Jai Young , Kaneko Hironori , Wakabayashi Go , Okajima Hideaki , Uemoto Shinji , Soubrane Olivier , Yong Chee-Chien , Chen Chao-Long , Cheung Tan To , Belli Giulio , Kubo Shoji , Wu Yao-Ming , Chen Kuo-Hsin , Troisi Roberto I. , Kwon Choon Hyuck David , Suh Kyung-Suk , Soin Arvinder S. , Kim Ki-Hun , Cherqui Daniel
Published: October 2017

Background: With improvements in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) techniques and the increased experience of surgeons in laparoscopic major liver resection, laparoscopic donor hepatectomy is performed increasingly. Therefore, expert opinion on this procedure is required. Objective: The study aimed to report the current status and summarize the expert opinion on laparoscopic donor hepatectomy. Methods: An expert consensus meeting was held on September 8, 2016, in Seoul, Korea. Results: Laparoscopic donor left lateral sectionectomy could be considered the standard practice in pediatric LDLT. In adult LDLT, laparoscopy-assisted donor hepatectomy or left hepatectomy is potentially the next need, requiring more evidence for becoming standard practice. Laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy is still in the developmental stage, and more supporting evidence is required. Waving the cost consideration, the robotic approach could be a valid alternative for the suitable approaches of laparoscopy. Conclusions: Laparoscopic donor hepatectomy is increasing its role in both pediatric and adult LDLT. However, for major donor hepatectomy, more evidence is needed.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Is Involved in Cochlear Cell Apoptosis in a Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity Rat Model
Authors: Zong Shimin , Liu Tianyi , Wan Fangmin , Chen Pei , Luo Pan , Xiao Hongjun
Published: October 2017

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress arises when excessive improperly folded proteins accumulate in the ER lumen. When ER stress occurs, the unfolded protein response (UPR) is subsequently activated to restore ER proteostasis. However, severe ER stress leads to apoptosis. Recent studies have suggested that cisplatin cytotoxicity may be related to ER stress. The purpose of this study was to determine whether ER stress participates in cochlear cell apoptosis in a cisplatin-induced ototoxicity rat model and to also determine the possible relationship between ER stress and hearing loss. Our results revealed that treatment with cisplatin upregulated the expression of active caspase-12 in cochlear cells, which is indicative of cisplatin-induced activation of ER-specific apoptosis. Increased expression of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and cleaved caspase-9 suggested a close relationship between severe ER stress and mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in the cochlear cells of cisplatin-treated rats. In addition, we found that tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), a promoter of ER proteostasis, had a protective effect on cisplatin-induced hearing loss. These results demonstrate that ER stress is involved in the cisplatin-induced apoptosis of cochlear cells in vivo.
Ulcerative Colitis: Are We Neglecting Its Progressive Character
Authors: Massinha Paulo , Portela Francisco , Campos Sara , Duque Gabriela , Ferreira Manuela , Mendes Sofia , Ferreira Ana Margarida , Sofia Carlos , Tomé Luís
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic disease but its progressive character, with structural damage, is insufficiently studied. Objectives: To analyze a group of patients without referral bias, regarding its clinical course, the morphological damage, and functional status. Methods: We evaluated UC patients diagnosed between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2004, living in the direct referral area of the hospital and determined the medication use, colectomy rate, structural damage (“lead pipe,” stenosis, pseudopolyps, fibrous bridges), and anorectal function (prospective evaluation with the Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score [CCIS] and the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale). Results: We identified 104 patients, 47% female, with a mean age at diagnosis of 38 ± 17 years, 24% with proctitis, 57% with left colitis, and 19% with pancolitis. In 3 patients, it was not possible to obtain follow-up data. Of the studied patients, 56% needed corticosteroid therapy, 38% immunosuppressants, and 16% anti-tumor necrosis factors (anti-TNFs). After a mean follow-up of 13 ± 2 years, we found structural damage in 25 patients (24%): 5% with proctocolectomy, 15% with “lead pipe,” 16% with pseudopolyps, and 3% with stenosis and fibrous bridges. Reference to functional anorectal disorders was identified in 49%, mostly previous and self-limited episodes of incontinence, but including persistent incontinence in 10% (CCIS 8 ± 4.8). There was an increased incidence of structural damage and anorectal dysfunction in patients who needed corticosteroid therapy (p = 0.001), immunosuppressants (p < 0.001), and anti-TNFs (p = 0.002) and an association of structural damage with anorectal dysfunction (p < 0.001). There was no association between age and anorectal dysfunction, including incontinence episodes. Conclusions: UC is a disease with structural and functional consequences in a significant subset of patients. This should be incorporated when defining the therapeutic strategy.
Isoflavones Induce BEX2-Dependent Autophagy to Prevent ATR-Induced Neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: Li Peng , Ma Kun , Wu Hao-Yu , Wu Yan-Ping , Li Bai-Xiang
Published: October 2017

Background/Aims: Atrazine (ATR) is a broad-spectrum herbicide in wide use around the world. However, ATR is neurotoxic and can cause cell death in dopaminergic neurons, leading to neurodegenerative disorders. Autophagy is the basic cellular catabolic process involving the degradation of proteins and damaged organelles. Studies have shown that certain plant compounds can induce autophagy and prevent neuronal cell death. This prompted us to investigate plant compounds that might reduce the neurotoxic effects of ATR. Methods: By CCK-8 and flow cytometry, we tested the ability of five candidate compounds—isoflavones, resveratrol, quercetin, curcumin, and green tea polyphenols—to protect cells from ATR. Changes in the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and brain-expressed X-linked 2 (BEX2), autophagy-related proteins and key factors in mTOR signaling, were detected by Western blotting. Results: Isoflavones had the strongest activity against ATR-induced neuronal apoptosis. ATR reduced the expression of TH and BEX2, whereas isoflavones increased TH and BEX2 expression. In addition, ATR inhibited autophagy, whereas isoflavones induced autophagy through the accumulation of LC3-II and decreased expression of p62; this effect was abolished by 3-methyladenine (3-MA). Furthermore, BEX2 siRNA abolished isoflavone-mediated autophagy and neuroprotection in vitro. Conclusion: Isoflavones activate BEX2-dependent autophagy, protecting against ATR-induced neuronal apoptosis.
An estimation of the hybrid Phillips curve for Brazil in the inflation targeting regime
Authors: Triches Divanildo , Feijó Flavio Tosi
Published: October 2017

O objetivo deste artigo é investigar a dinâmica da inflação no Brasil no período entre 2000-IV e 2014-II, por meio da abordagem da Curva de Phillips híbrida. Essa especificação econométrica permite avaliar os termos forward looking ou expectativa de inflação e backward looking inflação defasada. Os modelos foram estimados pelo método ARDL e os resultados mostraram que a inclusão do custo unitário do trabalho como proxy para a atividade econômica gerou um melhor ajustamento na estimação da Curva de Phillips. A expectativa de inflação tem dominância determinação da dinâmica da inflação brasileira. Há ainda um componente inercial dado pela rigidez de preços proveniente da indexação de contratos e preços administrados.
Testing bubbles in housing markets: An analysis from the panel-cointegrated model for the Brazilian states
Authors: Besarria Cassio Da Nóbrega
Published: October 2017

Este artigo tem o propósito de verificar se há indícios de bolhas racionais nos preços das habitações dos estados brasileiros (São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Pernambuco, Ceará, Bahia e Minas Gerais), no período de 2008 a 2015. Essa análise será realizada a partir o método de cointegração em dados de painel proposto por Pedroni (2004). Os resultados mostraram que não há suporte empírico para uma relação de cointegração entre os preços reais das habitações e o aluguel, dando indícios de bolhas nos preços das habitações no nível local. Esse resultado está em conformidade com os encontrados por Mendonça & Sachsida (2012) e Besarria (2014), sendo que esses autores analisaram a economia agregada. Por fim, evidências baseadas nos testes de causalidade de Granger em dados de painel sugerem que as alterações dos preços da habitação são úteis na previsão de mudanças no valor dos aluguéis e a relação inversa não foi verificada, corroborando com a hipótese proposta pelo modelo de bolha racional.
Is there a trade-off between supervision and wage? Evidence from a metal mechanical firm in southern Brazil
Authors: Schmidt Junior Reno , Teixeira Gibran Da Silva , Ribeiro Felipe Garcia , Balbinotto Neto Giácomo
Published: October 2017

The objective of this work was to test the existence of a trade-off between supervision and wages in a metal mechanical firm in Southern Brazil. The methodology used to assess the effects on productivity and the worker efficiency was the differences-in-differences estimator. Evaluating the results, it was found that with increased supervision, there was an increase in productivity ranging between 13.5% and 26.8%. Therefore, with increased productivity, the company has to choose between increasing the level of supervision, at a cost of US$ 624.98 or practicing efficiency wages at a cost of US$ 2,907.72.
Energia renovável no Brasil: análise das principais fontes energéticas renováveis brasileiras
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos, Mauad Frederico Fábio , Ferreira Luciana da Costa ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos, Trindade Tatiana Costa Guimarães ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos
Published: October 2017

O livro “Energia Renovável no Brasil” apresenta as principais fontes de energia renovável que possuem grande potencial de participação na matriz elétrica brasileira: Energia Hidrelétrica, Solar, Eólica e Biomassa. Estabelecendo um panorama nacional e internacional, o livro realiza uma análise sobre as tecnologias e desafios relacionados ao aproveitamento de cada uma dessas fontes. Os leitores poderão aumentar sua percepção sobre os principais impactos ambientais, econômicos e sociais envolvidos na exploração dessas energias; conhecer o funcionamento, os fundamentos do dimensionamento e os principais componentes de cada sistema; se familiarizar com os incentivos governamentais e legislação pertinente; e conhecer o grande potencial que o Brasil possui com relação ao aproveitamento de suas fontes de energia renovável.
Being and doing differentiated settings: the little princess and the plant’s poison of the forest
Authors: Mencarelli Vera Lúcia , Baptista Adriana Micelli , Vaisberg Tania Maria José Aiello
Published: October 2017

Este trabalho objetiva pesquisar a potencialidade mutativa do uso de histórias ficcionais personalizadas para revelar diagnóstico de doença orgânica para crianças e adolescentes. Articula-se ao redor de sessões de atendimento psicológico de uma adolescente HIV+, registradas sob a forma de narrativas transferenciais e apreciadas à luz do Procedimento de Ambrosio e Vaisberg de avaliação de benefícios psicoterapêuticos. Por essa via, foi possível constatar que o uso da história favoreceu uma experiência mutativa de transição desde um posicionamento defendido e dissociado para outro mais integrado e menos ansioso, caracterizado pela possibilidade de maior tolerância ao sofrimento quando o pertencimento à vida comum é oferecido. Interlocuções clínico-reflexivas com a psicaná- lise winnicottiana finalizam o texto, evidenciando a passagem do diagnóstico HIV+ de objeto subjetivo para objeto pertencente ao mundo compartilhado