bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VIBRATION SIGNAL ANALYSIS FOR CAVE DETECTION AS BASIC OF DEVELOPING PUMP OPERATIONS: CASE STUDY UNIT DISTILLATION PLN BELAWAN
Authors: Lubis Muhammad Zukhri , Isranuri Ikhwansyah
Published: July 2018

Cavitation occurs due to the formation of empty cavities in the fluid flow that decreases pressure quickly. When cavitation occurs then the pump performance will decrease marked with noise and when this condition is not addressed will cause damage to the pump components. The distillation pump working under vacuum pressure and working temperature at 38 ° C is susceptible to cavitation. The pressure and temperature conditions of this distillation pump work result in faster fluid evaporation and eventually trigger cavitation. To avoid the occurrence of cavitation, it must be known operational limits concerning the pressure and working capacity of the distillation pump. The operational limit of this pump is between the shut-off point meaning there is no flow and run-out point which means the full capacity of the pump. This study aims to determine the operating limits of safe distillation pumps both from pressure and capacity. The experimental methodology used is to vary the capacity of the pump by adjusting the opening valve discharge at 100%, 90%, 80% and 70% capacities. Then for each capacity varied also the suction pressure of pump at 0 mmHg, -7 mmHg, -15 mmHg and -22 mmHg by arranging vacuum pump. The magnitude of the vibration response is measured to determine the effect of the capacity and variation of pump suction pressure. With this method can be known range of capacity and pressure suction safe for operation of distillation pump. The results showed that the highest vibration value was in the axial direction. Vibration spectrum value spread over the range 1600 - 1900 Hz with the highest value is at 100% capacity (0.00278 m3 / sec) suction pressure -0 mmHg with amplitude of 0.410 g at 1660 Hz frequency. While the lowest vibration value is at a flow rate of 0.00208 m3 / sec with an amplitude of 0.210 g at a frequency of 1816 Hz. While the minimum flow rate to avoid the occurrence of cavitation due to recirculation flow is equal to 0.00172 m3 / sec. Keywords: cavitation, distillation pump, operational limit, valve discharge, vacuum pump
Learning Analytics for Peer-assessment
Authors: Divjak Blaženka , Maretić Marcel
Published: July 2018

Learning analytics deals with the data that occurs from students' interaction with ICT: collecting data, analyzing and reporting that can influence learning and teaching. Analysis of validity and reliability of assessment lags behind other applications of learning analytics. We present here mathematical modeling of learning analytics for assessment, especially for peer-assessment. In addition, we analyze and categorize students' recognition of advantages and disadvantages of peer-assessment. Finally implementations of reliability check of peer-assessment in Moodle Workshop module are explained.
A Guidance Based Approach for Enhancing the e-Government Interoperability
Authors: Jamoussi Yassine , Al-Khanjari Zuhoor , Kraiem Naoufel
Published: July 2018

Developing e-Government interoperability in the government context is a complex task. As interoperability in government context is associated and hindered by many challenges and barriers connected to government nature of complexity. Interoperability is generally defined as the ability for two (or more) systems to exchange information and to use the information that has been exchanged. In this paper, we focus on computing systems interoperability across government ministries to achieve interoperable e-Government IT based solutions. In order to achieve e-Government interoperability in an organised and efficient way, this paper establishes a guidance-based approach for enhancing the e-Government Interoperability. This contribution is motivated by the limitations of the traditional software engineering methodologies in terms of analysis, design and development frameworks to a point that they can hardly cope with the growing issues of e-Government services interoperability.
Comparisons of Bitcoin Cryptosystem with Other Common Internet Transaction Systems by AHP Technique
Authors: Maček Davor , Alagić Dino
Published: July 2018

This paper describes proposed methodology for evaluation of critical systems and prioritization of critical risks and assets identified in highly secured information systems. For different types of information assets or security environments it is necessary to apply different techniques and methods for their prioritization and evaluation. In this article, VECTOR matrix method for prioritization of critical assets and critical risks is explained and integrated into AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) technique as a set of fixed criteria for evaluation of defined alternatives. Bitcoin cryptocurrency was compared and evaluated along with other common Internet transaction systems by information security professionals according to defined VECTOR criteria. Also, the newly proposed hybrid AHP model is presented with potential case studies for future research. This article tries to discover security posture of Bitcoin cryptocurrency in the context of information security risks related to the existing most common online payment systems like e-banking, m-banking, and e-commerce
Posterior approach for anteriorly located cervical spinal cord hemangioblastomas: technical note
Authors: Van Der Veken Jorn , Gläsker Sven , Vougioukas Vassilis , Van Velthoven Vera
Published: July 2018

The surgical management of anteriorly located spinal cord hemangioblastomas remains a challenge. Different approaches have been published, of which the anterior approach seems to be the most obvious and commonly used. A posterior approach might be more suitable in certain patients, especially in cases of cystic hemangioblastomas. The authors present 3 cases of anterior spinal hemangioblastomas, which were all resected via a posterior approach. The authors discuss the rationale for choosing this approach and explain the technique in detail.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of endoscopic versus open treatment of craniosynostosis. Part 1: the sagittal suture
Authors: Yan Han , Abel Taylor J. , Alotaibi Naif M. , Anderson Melanie , Niazi Toba N. , Weil Alexander G. , Fallah Aria , Phillips John H. , Forrest Christopher R. , Kulkarni Abhaya V. , Drake James M. , Ibrahim George M.
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

In this systematic review and meta-analysis the authors aimed to directly compare open surgical and endoscope-assisted techniques for the treatment of sagittal craniosynostosis, focusing on the outcomes of blood loss, transfusion rate, length of stay, operating time, complication rate, cost, and cosmetic outcome.

METHODS

A literature search was performed in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Relevant articles were identified from 3 electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL [Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials]) from their inception to August 2017. The quality of methodology and bias risk were assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Effect estimates between groups were calculated as standardized mean differences with 95% CIs. Random and fixed effects models were used to estimate the overall effect.

RESULTS

Of 316 screened records, 10 met the inclusion criteria, of which 3 were included in the meta-analysis. These studies reported on 303 patients treated endoscopically and 385 patients treated with open surgery. Endoscopic surgery was associated with lower estimated blood loss (p < 0.001), shorter length of stay (p < 0.001), and shorter operating time (p < 0.001). From the literature review of the 10 studies, transfusion rates for endoscopic procedures were consistently lower, with significant differences in 4 of 6 studies; the cost was lower, with differences ranging from $11,603 to $31,744 in 3 of 3 studies; and the cosmetic outcomes were equivocal (p > 0.05) in 3 of 3 studies. Finally, endoscopic techniques demonstrated complication rates similar to or lower than those of open surgery in 8 of 8 studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic procedures are associated with lower estimated blood loss, operating time, and days in hospital. Future long-term prospective registries may establish advantages with respect to complications and cost, with equivalent cosmetic outcomes. Larger studies evaluating patient- or parent-reported satisfaction and optimal timing of intervention as well as heterogeneity in outcomes are indicated.
Позамузичні чинники в інструментальних творах Ф. Ліста (на прикладі «Першого року мандрів»)
Authors: Xiaole Zhu
Published: July 2018

Мета роботи. Стаття виявляє роль позамузичних чинників у творчому методі Ф. Ліста на матеріалі програмної інструментальної музики композитора. Методологія роботи грунтується на методі комплексного дослідження з використанням даних музикознавства, літературознавства, філософії та культурологїі, що спрямоване на виявлення глибинного зв'язку музичного твору з поетичним джерелом в ракурсі сучасної теорії синестезії. Наукова новизна роботи полягає у визначенні ролі та значення поетичного слова в нотних текстах інструментальних творів Ліста та у розширенні уявлень про дію позамузичних чинників в інструментальній музиці. Висновки. Авторське слово композитора (власне або цитоване), виведене в нотному тексті, оформлене як епіграф або заголовок, виступає невід’ємним смисловим чинником музичного тексту, цілісної «програми дії», творчого зусилля виконавця, і виявляється ключовим фактором в його інтерпретації, прояснює і дає можливість уточнити ідеї оригінального звукового та філософсько-естетичного світів композитора. Ключові слова: Ф. Ліст, романтизм, позамузичні чинники, епіграф, взаємодія і синтез мистецтв, синестезія, програмна інструментальна музика.
Прелюдийность как жанровая парадигма и стилистическая сфера фортепианно-исполнительского творчества (на материале русской музыки)
Authors: Xingxing Ma
Published: July 2018

Цель статьи заключается в определении специфических стилистических свойств прелюдии как показательной жанровой формы фортепианной музыки, в выявлении интегративной композиционно-тематической тенденции интерпретации данной жанровой формы в русской музыке, в частности в творчестве А. Лядова. Методология работы связана с историческим стилевым и типологическим жанровым подходами, позволяет развивать метод текстологического анализа, усиливать его семиотическую составляющую. Научная новизна обусловлена выделением понятия прелюдийности как жанрово-стилевого параметра инструментальной музыки,  приобретающего значение языковой доминанты фортепианного  творчества.  Выводы позволяют раскрывать содержание прелюлийности на трех основных уровнях музыкального текста – композиционном, фактурном и интонационно-тематическом, обнаруживать ее семиотический диапазон.Ключевые слова: прелюдия, прелюдийность,, русская фортепианная музыка, синтетический тип тематизма, стилистический комплекс, семиотический диапазон, переходность.
Дочь кардинала» Ф. Галеви: жанрово-стилевые и образно-смысловые аспекты
Authors: Yong Shang
Published: July 2018

Цель статьи: выявление поэтико-интонационных особенностей оперы «Дочь кардинала» Ф. Галеви в контексте эволюции французского музыкального театра первой половины XIX вв. Методология: в статье применены типологический, аналитический, историографический и, источниковедческий методы. Научная новизна: Опера Ф. Галеви «Дочь кардинала» рассматривается не только в контексте поэтики творчества композитора и воплощения жанрового «канона» «большой французской оперы», но и в русле запечатления процессов, показательных для французской музыкально-исторической традиции первой половины XIX века. Выводы. Музыкальный язык оперы Ф. Галеви характеризуется разнообразием стилистических истоков, среди которых для композитора существенными оказались традиции итальянского бельканто, французской музыкальной декламации, а также еврейской ритуально-богослужебной музыки.Ключевые слова: «большая» французская опера, творчество Ф. Галеви, французский музыкальный театр, «Дочь кардинала» Ф. Галеви.
Формування сучасного музичного стильового простору на прикладі творчості Українських композиторів
Authors: Dorofeeva Veronika
Published: July 2018

Мета статті – окреслити основні стилістичні тенденції, які представлені в українському академічному музичному просторі. Досягнення цієї мети полягає в виокремленні творчих підходів різних українських композиторських шкіл для визначення їх конкретної взаємодії в соціальному та культурному плані. Методологія дослідження. Для вивчення особливостей сучасної стильової палітри в просторі академічної музики України використовуються аналітичний метод та метод синтезу. Наукова новизна. Творчим методом сучасних українських авторів є вільне оперування досягненнями стильових напрямків минулого і їх поєднання з провідними композиторськими техніками сьогодення. Зростання інтересу до засобів масової інформації, електронної музики є однім з перспективних напрямків культури XXI століття. Висновки. Виділяється значна роль неофольклоризму як одного з провідних і визначних напрямків сучасності. Акцентується увага на використанні принципу полістилістики, який призводить до формування мета-мови. Відзначено виникнення тенденції до відродження традицій, притаманних українському мистецтву, що виявляється в становленні «нового бароко».Ключові слова: стильовий простір, українські композитори, неофольклоризм, «нове барокко», полістилістика.
Явище інтерпретації у дзеркалі музикознавчого дискурсу
Authors: Yezerskaya Anna
Published: July 2018

Мета статті – розкрити зміст та значення музикознавчого внеску до теорії інтерпретації як міждисциплінарної галузі гуманітарного знання, виявити взаємозумовленість текстології та інтерпретології, довести актуальність та проблемну широту особистісно-стильового підходу до явища виконавської інтерпретації. Методологія роботи дозволяє поєднувати філософсько-герменевтичний, текстологічний та музикознавчий ракурси дослідження, виокремлювати музично-виконавський бік інтерпретологічної проблематики. Наукова новизна статті  зумовлена розкриттям специфічних музикознавчих сторін проблеми інтерпретації в її сучасному теоретичному стані, методичного значення музично-виконавського стильового вивчення процесу інтерпретації як засадничого у створенні художньо-виразової системи музики на різних стадіях історичного існування та структурно-семантичних рівнях. Висновки. Доводиться, що феномен інтерпретації має особливо рельєфне та цілісне вираження в музичному мистецтві завдяки його переважаючій виконавській природі та усно-семіотичним засобам діяння. Розкривається значення музичної інтерпретації як глибинно-психологічного процесу, який скерований до активізації та експлікації позитивних естетичних чинників людської свідомості, задіює архетипові чуттєві стани, що забезпечують креативні стильові можливості процесу розуміння в його широкому життєтворчому та специфічному музично-виразовому призначенні.Ключові слова: інтерпретація, музикознавча інтерпретологія, розуміння, музичне мистецтво, музично-виконавська інтерпретація, особистісно-стильовий підхід, усно-семіотичні музичні засоби.
Понятие формы и процесс формообразования в фортепианной музыке: холистический подход
Authors: Xiaoxue Gan
Published: July 2018

Цель статьи – раскрыть значение категории формы применительно к фортепианному творчеству, учитывая композиторский, исполнительский и музыковедческий подходы к нему. Методология работы включает исторический и теоретико-аналитический музыковедческие методы, принципы музыкально-исполнительской текстологии, базируется на холистическом подходе. Научная новизна исследования заключается в создании целостной концепции природы и способов формообразования в фортепианной музыке, позволяющей определять общие параметры композиторского и исполнительского творчества. Выводы. Форма и формообразования выступают главными критериями родового, видового и композиционного своеобразия музыкального искусства, музыкально-творческого процесса. Их отличительным качеством является единство композиторской и исполнительской, структурной и семантической сторон, антиципации и апперцепции, выражающее целостность музыкального образа и его воздействия.Ключевые слова: форма, формообразование, холистический подход, фортепианная музыка, музыкально-творческий процесс, музыкальный образ,  музыкальное воздействие.
Инструментально-тембровая драматургия смешанных баянных ансамблей
Authors: Kislyak Bogdan
Published: July 2018

Мета даного дослідження полягає в розгляді творчості композиторів та виконавців ХХІ століття і одночасно детальному аналізі нових тембральних явищ в сучасному музичному мистецтві. Методологія дослідження полягає у використанні комплексного та історико-теоретичного методів. Наукова новизна. Огляд творчості сучасних композиторів і виконавців демонструє їх чималий інтерес до проблеми тембру. Це дає підстави стверджувати, що в значній мірі така зацікавленість продиктована різнобарвною тембровою палітрою музики XX – початку XXI столітть. Формування нового інструментарію, ускладнення традиційних народних або академічних інструментів, новітні технології і виконавські прийоми – всі ці процеси стали запорукою нових тембральних явищ в сучасному музичному мистецтві. Висновки. Аналіз сучасної української музичної літератури для баянних ансамблів дозволяє характеризувати тембр як один з найважливіших чинників формоутворення. Композитори, створюючи ансамблі з участю баяна-акордеона, формують композиційний задум твору, враховуючи темброве взаємодію вибраних інструментів. Таким чином, форма твору вибудовується на тембровому протиставленні, нарощуванні або поліфоничном поєднанні різних тембрів. Такий процес вказує на «оркестровість» як спосіб мислення композиторів при створенні подібних ансамблів.Ключові слова: представники, темброва драматургія, баянно-інструментальний жанр.
Total Fluid Intake and the Risk of Recurrence in Patients With Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Jochems Sylvia H.J. , van Osch Frits H.M. , Reulen Raoul C. , van Hensbergen Mitch , Nekeman Duncan , Pirrie Sarah J. , Wesselius Anke , van Schooten Frederik J. , James Nicholas D. , Wallace D. Michael A. , Bryan Richard T. , Cheng K.K. , Zeegers Maurice P.
Published: July 2018

Objectives:

To investigate the role of fluid intake from beverages before and after a diagnosis of bladder cancer in relation to the risk of developing bladder cancer recurrence.

Study Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Methods:

716 patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), who received transurethral resection of a primary bladder tumour (TURBT) and completed self-administrated questionnaires on usual fluid intake from beverages at time of diagnosis (over the year before diagnosis) and during follow-up (over the year after diagnosis), were included. Multivariable Cox regression was used to calculate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals of developing recurrent bladder cancer in relation to the intake of total fluid, total alcohol, and individual beverages.

Results:

During 2,025 person-years of follow-up, 238 (33%) of the included 716 NMIBC patients developed one or more recurrences of bladder cancer. Total fluid intake before diagnosis was not associated with a first recurrence of bladder cancer when comparing the highest and lowest intake group (HR = 0.98, 95% C.I. 0.70–1.38, p = 0.91). Comparable results were obtained for total fluid intake pre-diagnosis and the risk of developing multiple recurrences of bladder cancer (HR = 1.01, 95% C.I. 0.87–1.19, p = 0.85). A total of 379 of the 716 patients reported on usual fluid intake within 1 year of diagnosis. No significant associations between total fluid intake 1 year after diagnosis and a first recurrence of bladder cancer were found when comparing the highest and lowest intake group (HR = 0.91; 95% C.I. 0.60–1.37, p = 0.65) or with multiple recurrences of bladder cancer (HR = 1.06; 95% C.I. 0.89–1.26, p = 0.54). In addition, total alcohol intake and individual beverages were not associated with bladder cancer recurrence.

Conclusions:

The results indicate that an individual’s fluid intake from beverages is unlikely to have an important role in bladder cancer recurrence.
The Effects of Music Therapy on Cognition, Psychiatric Symptoms, and Activities of Daily Living in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Lyu Jihui , Zhang Jingnan , Mu Haiyan , Li Wenjie , Champ Mei , Xiong Qian , Gao Tian , Xie Lijuan , Jin Weiye , Yang Wan , Cui Mengnan , Gao Maolong , Li Mo
Published: July 2018

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, affecting millions of older people worldwide. However, pharmacological therapies have not achieved desirable clinical efficacy in the past decades. Non-pharmacological therapies have been receiving increased attention to treat dementia in recent years.

Objective:

This study explores the effects of music therapy on cognitive function and mental wellbeing of patients with AD.

Methods:

A total number of 298 AD patients with mild, moderate, or severe dementia participated in the study. The participants with each grade of severity were randomly divided into three groups, which were a singing group, a lyric reading group, and a control group. These three groups received different interventions for three months. All participants underwent a series of tests on cognitive functions, neuropsychological symptoms, and activities of daily living at baseline, three months, and six months.

Results:

The analysis shows that music therapy is more effective for improving verbal fluency and for alleviating the psychiatric symptoms and caregiver distress than lyrics reading in patients with AD. Stratified analysis shows that music therapy is effective for enhancing memory and language ability in patients with mild AD and reducing the psychiatric symptoms and caregiver distress in patients with moderate or severe AD. However, no significant effect was found for activities of daily living in patients with mild, moderate, or severe AD.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that music therapy is effective in enhancing cognitive function and mental wellbeing and can be recommended as an alternative approach to manage AD associated symptoms.
Optimal First-Line Treatment of Metastatic Renal-Cell Carcinoma: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hahn Andrew W. , Hale Peter , Maughan Benjamin L. , Haaland Benjamin , Agarwal Neeraj
Published: July 2018

Background:

First-line treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) has incrementally evolved over the past decade. Most recently, promising clinical trials for first-line cabozantinib, nivolumab plus ipilimumab, and bevacizumab plus atezolizumab were reported. However, the comparator arm in all of these trials was sunitinib, so no head-to-head comparison exists for contemporary first-line treatments.

Objective:

To provide an indirect comparison of first-line treatments for mRCC that are currently approved or likely soon to be approved.

Methods:

Pivotal phase 2/3 clinical trials comparing currently approved first-line agents and novel regimens of nivolumab plus ipilimumab and bevacizumab plus atezolizumab were included if they reported overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), or objective response rate (ORR). Network meta-analysis of OS, PFS, and ORR was conducted in the context of Bayesian hierarchical log-linear models with both within and between study variance components.

Results:

For OS, evidence suggests nivolumab plus ipilimumab may be the best first-line treatment available for mRCC (probability best 52%). In contrast, cabozantinib may be superior to other first-line treatments for PFS (probability best 69%) and ORR (probability best 95%).

Conclusion:

For first-line treatment of mRCC, cabozantinib appears superior to other agents for PFS and ORR, whereas, nivolumab plus ipilimumab may be the best treatment for OS. No single agent was superior to comparators across all endpoints. First-line treatment for mRCC should be tailored to individual cases based on the unique characteristics of each treatment regimen.
Evaluation of Transpedicular Surgical Decompression withLong Segment Stabilization in Thoracic and Thoracolumbar SpinalTuberculosis
Authors: Islam Anowarul , Goni Fahad , Rahman Naimur
Published: July 2018

Pott’s disease is a common cause of neurological complications and kyphotic deformity.When deformity progressed that may lead to painful costo-pelvic impingement, respiratory distress, risk of paralysis of muscle of lower limb and consequent reduction in quality andlongevity oflife. The treatmentstrategy is to avoid neurological complication and achieve a near normal spine. In tuberculosis, spinal column may become unstable. Pathological fracture or dislocation of a diseased vertebral body may occur due to mechanical insult. Surgical decompression causefurther instability.The insertion of a metallic implant is to provide stability. Pedicle screw fixation in kyphotic correction in old Pott’s disease is a most suitable device.This prospective interventionalstudywas conducted in BanglabandhuSheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) for aperiod of 60 monthsfrom July 2011, with at leasttwo years follow-up period. Twentycases (13 males and 7 females) of thoracolumbar spinal tuberculosis with neurological deficit were operated with a transpedicular decompression and screw fixation along with anti-tubercular drug treatment. All of these patients had varying degrees of neurological deficit and single level involvement with vertebral body destruction and mild kyphosis of 9–28 degrees. Long segment pedicle screw fixation, posterior decompression, and correction of kyphosis were performed in single stage.The mean age of patients was 50.9 and kyphosis improved from 17.85±1.37 degrees to 10.85±2.66 degrees (p=0.0206).Neurological recovery occurred in 18 patients (90%). Bony fusion was achieved in 67.5% cases. At 2-years follow-up mean visual analogue score (VAS) score improved from 5.5 to 0.75 (p=0.0031).So, posterior decompression and transpedicular stabilization with continued chemotherapy is a good treatment option for the management of the thoracic and thoracolumbar TB in patients with vertebral body destruction and <30degree kyphosis.
A Bouc–Wen Model-Based Compensation of the Frequency-Dependent Hysteresis of a Piezoelectric Actuator Exhibiting Odd Harmonic Oscillation
Authors: Fujii Fumitake , Tatebatake Ken’ichi , Morita Kohei , Shiinoki Takehiro
Published: July 2018

This paper proposes an enhancement of the Bouc–Wen hysteresis model to capture the frequency-dependent hysteretic behavior of a thin bimorph-type piezoelectric actuator which also exhibits odd harmonic oscillation (OHO) at specific input frequencies. The odd harmonic repetitive controller has recently been proposed to compensate for the hysteresis, and attenuates the OHO of the piezoelectric actuator for which the hysteresis nonlinearity is regarded as a disturbance. This paper proposes an alternate treatment of the hysteresis compensation with the attenuation of the OHO observed at some input frequencies. It will be shown that the proposed compensator fully utilizes the mathematical structure of the enhanced Bouc–Wen model proposed in this paper to compensate the hysteresis and to attenuate the OHO. The results of the hysteresis compensation experiment illustrate the excellent performance of the proposed control system, especially at the frequencies where OHO is conspicuous.
Role of Indochina Peninsula Topography in Precipitation Seasonality over East Asia
Authors: Wu Chi-Hua , Huang Wan-Ru , Wang S.-Y. Simon
Published: July 2018

Stage-wise precipitation evolution over East Asia, primarily from spring to summer, is influenced by nearby monsoons and can be topographically driven. Corresponding to the onset of the Asian summer monsoon circulation, the Meiyu-Baiu occurs rapidly in May, replacing the East Asian spring rains. The Meiyu-Baiu rapidly terminates in late July due to the synchronous development of the subtropical monsoons extending from Africa to the East Asia–Western North Pacific (WNP). In late summer–autumn, the monsoonal circulation gradually retreats, in contrast to the rapid and stepwise transitions of the monsoon. This study reviews the role of the Indochina Peninsula in modulating the seasonality of nearby monsoons, primarily based on previous modeling works, and expands the analysis for a full view of the annual monsoon cycle. The review and additional results highlight the role of the topographical processes of the Indochina Peninsula in driving the rapid monsoonal transitions, which correspond to the early summer vertical circulation coupling over the Bay of Bengal-Indochina Peninsula and the late-July WNP monsoon onset. In the simulation with a flattened topography, the southerly winds disappear over the Indochina Peninsula and the westerly winds gradually expand eastward across the Indochina Peninsula in the lower troposphere.
Mathematical Thermal Modelling of a Direct-Expansion Solar-Assisted Heat Pump Using Multi-Objective Optimization Based on the Energy Demand
Authors: De León-Ruiz Jorge E. , Carvajal-Mariscal Ignacio
Published: July 2018

An analytical model is proposed to evaluate the performance of a Direct Expansion Solar-Assisted Heat Pump under a given environmental condition. These thermal machines commonly employ uncovered flat plate solar collectors, and given this, the convection phenomenon is taken into account as well as the effect of the diffuse and reflected solar radiation in addition to the normal beam radiation absorbed by the tilted surface of the collectors. The heat pump cycle is modelled through a first law of thermodynamics approach in order to compute the heat yielded through condensation and the minimum heat required by the volume of water in the thermal storage unit. Consequently, the thermal capacity of the heat pump, the ratio at which the system yields heat to a given load of water, is calculated and discussed. The results of the model proposed are compared with the experimental data provided by three research papers with experiments conducted in different geographic coordinates and test rigs operating during diverse atmospheric conditions. A maximum relative error of 20% was obtained and furthermore, a statistical analysis of the data was conducted having found that there is no significant statistical difference between the analytical and experimental data samples within the 95% confidence interval. Finally, based on the thermal capacity, the performance of the heat pump is evaluated and a multi-objective optimization technique is implemented to obtain the best possible combination of factors to further enhance the performance of the heat pump.
Diagnosis of DC Bias in Power Transformers Using Vibration Feature Extraction and a Pattern Recognition Method
Authors: Wu Xiaowen , Li Ling , Zhou Nianguang , Lu Ling , Hu Sheng , Cao Hao , He Zhiqiang
Published: July 2018

DC bias is a great threat to the safe operation of power transformers. This paper deals with a new vibration-based technique to diagnose DC bias in power transformers. With this technique, the DC bias status of power transformers can be automatically recognized. The vibration variation process of a 500 kV autotransformer is tested under the influence of DC bias in the monopole trail operation stage of a ±800 kV HVDC transmission system. Comparison of transformer vibration under normal and DC-biased conditions is conducted. Three features are proposed and are validated by sensitivity analysis. The principal component analysis method is employed for feature de-correlation and dimensionality reduction. The least square support vector machine algorithm is used and verified successful in DC bias recognition. A remote on-line monitoring device based on the proposed algorithm is designed and applied in field DC bias diagnosis of power transformers. The suggested diagnostic algorithm and monitoring device could be useful in targeted DC bias control and improving the safe operation level of power transformers.
An Automated Method for Building Cognitive Models for Turn-Based Games from a Strategy Logic
Authors: Top Jakob Dirk , Verbrugge Rineke , Ghosh Sujata
Published: July 2018

Whereas game theorists and logicians use formal methods to investigate ideal strategic behavior, many cognitive scientists use computational cognitive models of the human mind to predict and simulate human behavior. In this paper, we aim to bring these fields closer together by creating a generic translation system which, starting from a strategy for a turn-based game represented in formal logic, automatically generates a computational model in the Primitive Information Processing Elements (PRIMs) cognitive architecture, which has been validated on various experiments in cognitive psychology. The PRIMs models can be run and fitted to participants’ data in terms of decisions, response times, and answers to questions. As a proof of concept, we run computational modeling experiments on the basis of a game-theoretic experiment about the turn-based game “Marble Drop with Surprising Opponent”, in which the opponent often starts with a seemingly irrational move. We run such models starting from logical representations of several strategies, such as backward induction and extensive-form rationalizability, as well as different player types according to stance towards risk and level of theory of mind. Hereby, response times and decisions for such centipede-like games are generated, which in turn leads to concrete predictions for future experiments with human participants. Such precise predictions about different aspects, including reaction times, eye movements and active brain areas, cannot be derived on the basis of a strategy logic by itself: the computational cognitive models play a vital role and our generic translation system makes their construction more efficient and systematic than before.
Lost in Translation: Transforming Behaviour Change Techniques into Engaging Digital Content and Design for the StopApp
Authors: Fulton Emily Anne , Kwah Kayleigh L. , Wild Sue , Brown Katherine E.
Published: July 2018

Frameworks to support the application of behaviour change theory to the choice of behaviour change techniques (BCTs) in designing digital behaviour change interventions (DBCIs) are becoming well established, and have been employed by the authors in the development of StopApp. However, guidance on the next stage—effective operationalisation (translation) of these BCTs to a digital context, including the precise delivery and design of “behavioural intervention technology” (BIT) elements, is still in its infancy. This is despite growing recognition of the need to optimise engagement and usability, alongside a theoretical basis, for intervention effectiveness. The aim of this study was to explore methods to translate BCTs into digital content in an accurate and systematic manner. We describe the process of using co-creation (user-led) rather than expert-driven methods in the development of user-facing features and design in StopApp, including the iterative “bottom-up” and “top-down processes” necessary for accurate BCT translation. We found a small disparity between the intended and actual BCT content, reflecting the difficulties of translating BCTs into digital intervention content and the need for better guidance and methodical approaches to enhance this under-researched process. The involvement of our Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) group throughout these processes is described.
Food Insecurity and Mental Health among Females in High-Income Countries
Authors: Maynard Merryn , Andrade Lesley , Packull-McCormick Sara , Perlman Christopher M. , Leos-Toro Cesar , Kirkpatrick Sharon I.
Published: July 2018

Food insecurity is a persistent concern in high-income countries, and has been associated with poor mental health, particularly among females. We conducted a scoping review to characterize the state of the evidence on food insecurity and mental health among women in high-income countries. The research databases PubMed, EMBASE, and psycINFO were searched using keywords capturing food insecurity, mental health, and women. Thirty-nine articles (representing 31 unique studies/surveys) were identified. Three-quarters of the articles drew upon data from a version of the United States Department of Agriculture Household Food Security Survey Module. A range of mental health measures were used, most commonly to measure depression and depressive symptoms, but also anxiety and stress. Most research was cross-sectional and showed associations between depression and food insecurity; longitudinal analyses suggested bidirectional relationships (with food insecurity increasing the risk of depressive symptoms or diagnosis, or depression predicting food insecurity). Several articles focused on vulnerable subgroups, such as pregnant women and mothers, women at risk of homelessness, refugees, and those who had been exposed to violence or substance abuse. Overall, this review supports a link between food insecurity and mental health (and other factors, such as housing circumstances and exposure to violence) among women in high-income countries and underscores the need for comprehensive policies and programs that recognize complex links among public health challenges.
Is It Possible to “Find Space for Mental Health” in Young People? Effectiveness of a School-Based Mental Health Literacy Promotion Program
Authors: Campos Luísa , Dias Pedro , Duarte Ana , Veiga Elisa , Dias Cláudia Camila , Palha Filipa
Published: July 2018

Lack of knowledge regarding, and the stigma associated with, mental disorders have been identified as major obstacles for the promotion of mental health and early intervention. The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a school-based intervention program focused on the promotion of mental health literacy (MHL) in young people (“Finding Space for Mental Health”). A sample of 543 students (22 classes), aged between 12 and 14 years old, participated in the study. Each class of students was randomly assigned to the control group (CG; n = 284; 11 classes) or the experimental group (EG; n = 259; 11 classes). MHL was assessed using the Mental Health Literacy questionnaire (MHLq), which is comprised of three dimensions—Knowledge/Stereotypes, First Aid Skills and Help Seeking, and Self-Help Strategies. The scores on these dimensions can also be combined to give an overall or total score. Participants from the EG attended the MHL promotion program (two sessions, 90 min each) delivered at one-week intervals. Sessions followed an interactive methodology, using group dynamics, music, and videos adapted to the target group. All participants responded to the MHLq at three points in time: pre-intervention assessment (one week prior to the intervention), post-intervention assessment (one week after the intervention) and follow-up assessment (six months after the intervention). The intervention effectiveness and the differential impact of sociodemographic variables on the effectiveness of the program were studied using a Generalized Estimation Equation (GEE). Results revealed that participants from the EG demonstrated, on average, significantly higher improvement in MHL from pre-intervention to follow-up when compared to participants from the CG. Different sociodemographic variables affected the effectiveness of the program on distinct dimensions of the MHLq. Overall, “Finding Space for Mental Health” showed efficacy as a short-term promotion program for improving MHL in schools.
Perinatal Mortality in South Asia: Systematic Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Ghimire Pramesh Raj , Agho Kingsley E. , Akombi Blessing J. , Wali Nidhi , Dibley Michael , Raynes-Greenow Camille , Renzaho Andre M. N.
Published: July 2018

Background: This study aimed to systematically review observational studies on perinatal mortality in South Asia. Methods: This review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Five computerized bibliographic databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, and Scopus were searched for published studies which reported factors associated with perinatal mortality in South Asia from 1 January 2000 to 20 March 2018. All relevant observational studies (cohort, cross-sectional and case-control) were reviewed. Results: Fourteen studies met the selection criteria. The most common factors associated with perinatal mortality were: low socioeconomic status, lack of quality health-care services, pregnancy/obstetric complications and lack of antenatal care. Conclusions: Interventions to reduce perinatal mortality in the South Asia should focus on the provision of adequate antenatal care and quality healthcare services which are accessible to women of low socioeconomic status.
Identification and Functional Analysis of the psaD Promoter of Chlorella vulgaris Using Heterologous Model Strains
Authors: Kim Jongrae , Liu Linpo , Hu Zanmin , Jin EonSeon
Published: July 2018

Chlorella has great potential as a bio-factory for production of value-added compounds. To produce the desired chemicals more efficiently in Chlorella, genetic tools for modification of Chlorella need to be developed, especially an endogenous promoter. In this study, the promoter of photosystem I protein D (psaD) from Chlorella vulgaris UTEX395 was identified. Computational analysis revealed the presence of several putative cis-acting elements, including a potential core element, and light-responsive or stress-responsive elements. Gene expression analysis in heterologous expression system in Chlamydomonasreinhardtii and Nicotianabenthamiana showed that CvpsaD promoter can be used to drive the expression of genes. Functional analysis of this promoter suggested that the initiator element (Inr) is important for its function (i.e., TATA-less promoter) and that an additional factor (e.g., downstream of the transcriptional start site) might be needed for light response. We have shown that the CvpsaD promoter is functional, but not sufficiently strong, both in microalgae and higher plant.
Unravelling HDL—Looking beyond the Cholesterol Surface to the Quality Within
Authors: Kajani Sarina , Curley Sean , McGillicuddy Fiona C.
Published: July 2018

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles have experienced a turbulent decade of falling from grace with widespread demotion from the most-sought-after therapeutic target to reverse cardiovascular disease (CVD), to mere biomarker status. HDL is slowly emerging from these dark times due to the HDL flux hypothesis wherein measures of HDL cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC) are better predictors of reduced CVD risk than static HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. HDL particles are emulsions of metabolites, lipids, protein, and microRNA (miR) built on the backbone of Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) that are growing in their complexity due to the higher sensitivity of the respective “omic” technologies. Our understanding of particle composition has increased dramatically within this era and has exposed how our understanding of these particles to date has been oversimplified. Elucidation of the HDL proteome coupled with the identification of specific miRs on HDL have highlighted the “hormonal” characteristics of HDL in that it carries and delivers messages systemically. HDL can dock to most peripheral cells via its receptors, including SR-B1, ABCA1, and ABCG1, which may be a critical step for facilitating HDL-to-cell communication. The composition of HDL particles is, in turn, altered in numerous disease states including diabetes, auto-immune disease, and CVD. The consequence of changes in composition, however, on subsequent biological activities of HDL is currently poorly understood and this is an important avenue for the field to explore in the future. Improving HDL particle quality as opposed to HDL quantity may, in turn, prove a more beneficial investment to reduce CVD risk.
Lithocholic Acid Is a Vitamin D Receptor Ligand That Acts Preferentially in the Ileum
Authors: Ishizawa Michiyasu , Akagi Daisuke , Makishima Makoto
Published: July 2018

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is a nuclear receptor that mediates the biological action of the active form of vitamin D, 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3], and regulates calcium and bone metabolism. Lithocholic acid (LCA), which is a secondary bile acid produced by intestinal bacteria, acts as an additional physiological VDR ligand. Despite recent progress, however, the physiological function of the LCA−VDR axis remains unclear. In this study, in order to elucidate the differences in VDR action induced by 1,25(OH)2D3 and LCA, we compared their effect on the VDR target gene induction in the intestine of mice. While the oral administration of 1,25(OH)2D3 induced the Cyp24a1 expression effectively in the duodenum and jejunum, the LCA increased target gene expression in the ileum as effectively as 1,25(OH)2D3. 1,25(OH)2D3, but not LCA, increased the expression of the calcium transporter gene Trpv6 in the upper intestine, and increased the plasma calcium levels. Although LCA could induce an ileal Cyp24a1 expression as well as 1,25(OH)2D3, the oral LCA administration was not effective in the VDR target gene induction in the kidney. No effect of LCA on the ileal Cyp24a1 expression was observed in the VDR-null mice. Thus, the results indicate that LCA is a selective VDR ligand acting in the lower intestine, particularly the ileum. LCA may be a signaling molecule, which links intestinal bacteria and host VDR function.
Glycine Relieves Intestinal Injury by Maintaining mTOR Signaling and Suppressing AMPK, TLR4, and NOD Signaling in Weaned Piglets after Lipopolysaccharide Challenge
Authors: Xu Xiao , Wang Xiuying , Wu Huanting , Zhu Huiling , Liu Congcong , Hou Yongqing , Dai Bing , Liu Xiuting , Liu Yulan
Published: July 2018

This study was conducted to envaluate whether glycine could alleviate Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal injury by regulating intestinal epithelial energy status, protein synthesis, and inflammatory response via AMPK, mTOR, TLR4, and NOD signaling pathways. A total of 24 weanling piglets were randomly allotted to 1 of 4 treatments: (1) non-challenged control; (2) LPS-challenged control; (3) LPS + 1% glycine; (4) LPS + 2% glycine. After 28 days feeding, piglets were injected intraperitoneally with saline or LPS. The pigs were slaughtered and intestinal samples were collected at 4 h postinjection. The mRNA expression of key genes in these signaling pathways was measured by real-time PCR. The protein abundance was measured by Western blot analysis. Supplementation with glycine increased jejunal villus height/crypt depth ratio. Glycine also increased the jejunal and ileal protein content, RNA/DNA ratio, and jejunal protein/DNA ratio. The activities of citroyl synthetase in ileum, and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex in jejunum, were increased in the piglets fed diets supplemented with glycine. In addition, glycine decreased the jejunal and ileal phosphorylation of AMPKα, and increased ileal phosphorylation of mTOR. Furthermore, glycine downregulated the mRNA expression of key genes in inflammatory signaling. Meanwhile, glycine increased the mRNA expression of negative regulators of inflammatory signaling. These results indicate that glycine supplementation could improve energy status and protein synthesis by regulating AMPK and mTOR signaling pathways, and relieve inflammation by inhibiting of TLR4 and NOD signaling pathways to alleviate intestinal injury in LPS-challenged piglets.