bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A LIQUIDATION RISK ADJUSTMENT FOR VALUE AT RISK AND EXPECTED SHORTFALL
Authors: WAGALATH LAKSHITHE , ZUBELLI JORGE P.
Published: March 2018

This paper proposes an intuitive and flexible framework to quantify liquidation risk for financial institutions. We develop a model where the “fundamental” dynamics of assets is modified by price impacts from fund liquidations. We characterize mathematically the liquidation schedule of financial institutions and study in detail the fire sales resulting endogenously from margin constraints when a financial institution trades through an exchange. Our study enables to obtain tractable formulas for the value at risk and expected shortfall of a financial institution in the presence of fund liquidation. In particular, we find an additive decomposition for liquidation-adjusted risk measures. We show that such a measure can be expressed as a “fundamental” risk measure plus a liquidation risk adjustment that is proportional to the size of fund positions as a fraction of asset market depths. Our results can be used by risk managers in financial institutions to tackle liquidity events arising from fund liquidations better and adjust their portfolio allocations to liquidation risk more accurately.
BIOMECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF NORMAL AND PROLAPSED VAGINAL TISSUE SURROGATES
Authors: CHANDA ARNAB , FLYNN ZACHARY , UNNIKRISHNAN VINU
Published: March 2018

In the recent years, poorly evaluated gynecological surgeries and urogynecological mesh implantations have been affecting millions of women in the US and across the globe. These failed surgeries could be mainly attributed to the nonavailability of vaginal tissues (due to ethical and biosafety issues), which does not allow any experimental testing of operation and mesh implantation techniques before an actual surgery. A surrogate which behaves biomechanically like the human vaginal tissue would be indispensable for simulating surgical suture of vaginal tissues in prolapse surgery, hysterectomy or surgery during traumatic child births (such as Cesarean). Also, vaginal tissue surrogates simulating the various prolapse conditions (such as vaginal tissue stiffening) would be very useful to evaluate tissue modifications due to prolapse, and also mesh and vaginal tissue interactions. In the current work, a low cost four-part silicone-based material was developed, which precisely simulates the linear and nonlinear mechanical behavior of the normal human vaginal tissue. Additionally, a range of four-part silicone-based novel materials were developed which precisely mimics the mechanical behavior of stiffened vaginal tissues at different degrees of prolapse. The linear and nonlinear mechanical behavior of all such novel materials were characterized using elastic and hyperelastic formulations. Such precisely characterized normal and prolapsed vaginal tissue surrogates have not been developed anywhere to date as per the best of our knowledge and would be clinically helpful for gynecological surgical planning in the future.
MISSING DATA AS PART OF THE SOCIAL BEHAVIOR IN REAL-WORLD FINANCIAL COMPLEX SYSTEMS
Authors: KELMAN GUY , MANES ERAN , LAMIERI MARCO , BRÉE DAVID S.
Published: March 2018

Many real-world networks are known to exhibit facts that counter our knowledge prescribed by the theories on network creation and communication patterns. A common prerequisite in network analysis is that information on nodes and links will be complete because network topologies are extremely sensitive to missing information of this kind. Therefore, many real-world networks that fail to meet this criterion under random sampling may be discarded.

In this paper, we offer a framework for interpreting the missing observations in network data under the hypothesis that these observations are not missing at random. We demonstrate the methodology with a case study of a financial trade network, where the awareness of agents to the data collection procedure by a self-interested observer may result in strategic revealing or withholding of information. The non-random missingness has been overlooked despite the possibility of this being an important feature of the processes by which the network is generated. The analysis demonstrates that strategic information withholding may be a valid general phenomenon in complex systems. The evidence is sufficient to support the existence of an influential observer and to offer a compelling dynamic mechanism for the creation of the network.
Evolution Balancing of Mixed Model-Assembly Line Considering Task Reassignment
Authors: Wu Y. M. , Dai L. ZH. , Luo L. F.
Published: March 2018

Market demand and technological progress drive continuous product evolution, upgrade and innovation, which necessitate readjustment and evolution balancing of the mixed model assembly line (MMAL) for improving production efficiency. In the evolution process of MMAL, the rational matching between difficulty of assembly tasks and operating level are mainly considered, the mathematical model of evolution balancing optimization for MMAL is established, and an improved particle swarm optimization algorithm (IPSO) based on leapfrog algorithm is designed. In the process of optimization, the single population is divided into several subgroups for searching, information exchange between species is executed to get better particles and the strategy of returning to the beginning is introduced, in which particle diversity and global search capability are increased and improved, respectively. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the method were validated by evolution balancing planning of MMAL.
Prediction of Machining Dimension in Laser Heating and Ultrasonic Vibration Composite Assisted Cutting of Tungsten Carbide
Authors: Jiao Feng , Niu Ying , Zhang Ming-Jun
Published: March 2018

Dimension precision plays an important role in precision machining. The two-dimensional ultrasonic vibration cutting (TDUVC) method reduces cutting force and alleviates tool wear, meanwhile, laser assisted cutting (LAC) improves the material workability under high temperature. In this paper, laser heating and two-dimensional ultrasonic vibration were combined in cutting of tungsten carbide (YG10) to improve machining dimension precision. According to the experimental results, a prediction model of machining dimension was built based on time series model. The results show that the machining dimension precision is improved significantly in laser and ultrasonic composite assisted cutting (LUAC), and AR (2) and AR (12) of time series model predicts machining dimension with high precision (the relative error is less than 10%), and reflects tool wear state. Moreover, comparison with artificial neural network (ANN) also proves that the time series model is more suitable for the prediction of machining dimensional in LUAC.
A Methodology for Assembly Sequence Optimization by Hybrid Cuckoo-Search Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Karthik G. V. S. K. , Deb Sankha
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we have proposed and implemented a methodology for assembly sequence optimization by using a nature-inspired metaheuristic algorithm, known as hybrid cuckoo-search genetic algorithm (CSGA). The cost criteria for optimization in the present formulation takes into consideration the total assembly time and the number of reorientations during the assembly process. To demonstrate the application of the CSGA, an example assembly containing 19 parts has been presented and the results have been compared with those of another metaheuristic algorithm, Genetic Algorithm (GA). From the results, it has been observed that for the given problem, the CSGA not only produces optimal assembly sequences with costs comparable to that of GA, but the convergence of CSGA algorithm has been found to be faster than the GA algorithm.
Machining Performance Characteristics of Inconel 718 Superalloy Due to Hole-Sinking Ultrasonic Assisted Micro-EDM
Authors: Singh Param , Yadava Vinod , Narayan Audhesh
Published: March 2018

Inconel 718 superalloy is widely used in aerospace industries for fabrication of the various components for aircraft engine because of its high strength at elevated temperature. It is an extremely difficult-to-machine material due to its work hardening nature and poor thermal conductivity. Creating micro-holes of high precision in this material is beyond the capability of conventional twist drill due to its low thermal conductivity. Micro-electrical discharge machining (micro-EDM) is a well-established process for the machining of any electrically conductive hard and brittle material, but due to very small feature size and narrow discharge gap, removal of debris becomes difficult, causes arcing and short-circuiting. In order to solve this problem, authors indigenously developed an innovative ultrasonic-assisted micro-EDM setup for workpiece vibration. The machining performance characteristics of Inconel 718 superalloy was studied using the developed setup in sinking configuration in terms of material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate (TWR) and hole taper ([Formula: see text]) considering the effect of ultrasonic power, gap current, pulse on time and pulse off time. It was observed that higher ultrasonic power was more suitable for higher MRR, lower TWR and [Formula: see text]. It was also found from the results that 3 A gap current at 6[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]s pulse on time was appropriate for better MRR and 12[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]s pulse on time was more appropriate for low TWR and [Formula: see text]. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis of created micro-holes was also performed with and without ultrasonic vibration to ensure the quality as well as accuracy.
A novel quantum steganography scheme for color images
Authors: Li Panchi , Liu Xiande
Published: March 2018

In quantum image steganography, embedding capacity and security are two important issues. This paper presents a novel quantum steganography scheme using color images as cover images. First, the secret information is divided into 3-bit segments, and then each 3-bit segment is embedded into the LSB of one color pixel in the cover image according to its own value and using Gray code mapping rules. Extraction is the inverse of embedding. We designed the quantum circuits that implement the embedding and extracting process. The simulation results on a classical computer show that the proposed scheme outperforms several other existing schemes in terms of embedding capacity and security.
A Novel Alpha Smoothed Finite Element Method for Ultra-Accurate Solution Using Quadrilateral Elements
Authors: Li Y. H. , Li M. , Liu G. R.
Published: March 2018

Smoothed finite element method (S-FEM) based on triangular elements has recently been widely used for solving solid mechanics problems. In this paper, a novel [Formula: see text]S-FEM using quadrilateral elements ([Formula: see text]SFEM-Q4) is proposed to obtain ultra-accurate solutions in the displacement and strain energy for solid mechanics problems. This method combines node-based S-FEM (NS-FEM), edge-based S-FEM (ES-FEM) and cell-based S-FEM (CS-FEM) equipped with a scale factor [Formula: see text] that controls contribution from each of these three different S-FEM models. This novel combination makes the best use of the upper bound property of the NS-FEM and the lower bound property of the CS-FEM (with 4 or more sub-smoothing domains for each element), and establishes a continuous strain-energy function of a scale factor [Formula: see text] for obtaining close-to-exact solutions. Our [Formula: see text]SFEM-Q4 also ensures the variational consistence and the compatibility of the displacement field, and hence guarantees to reproduce linear field exactly. Various solid mechanics problems are presented to validate the stability, effectiveness and ultra-accuracy of the proposed method.
TYING STRONG TIES IN INFORMAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP: A CONSTRAINT OR AN ENTREPRENEURIAL DRIVER?
Authors: VILLANUEVA CRISTIAN E , ANGELES ADRIANELA , REVILLA LUZ CECILIA
Published: March 2018

Informal entrepreneurship is a persistent and extensive phenomenon in both developed and developing countries and considerable efforts have been made to understand it from an ecosystem perspective. Nevertheless, literature that analyzes networks within and among individuals in the informal economic sector has received less attention. This study presents an interesting extension of Granovetter's “strength of weak ties” hypothesis. Until now, strong ties are perceived to be constraining and less beneficial than weak ties for the entrepreneurial activity. However, this paper critically examines this assumption in the context of informal entrepreneurship to explore in detail this networking dynamic and how it affects their financial and social performance. A qualitative approach using 50 face-to-face interviews in Mexico was conducted. Our findings demonstrate that strong ties provide the resources, support and information informal entrepreneurs need to reduce their adversity and vulnerable conditions, having a positive impact on their financial and social outcomes.
On Connections of Soft Set Theory with Existing Mathematics of Uncertainties: A Short Discussion for Non-Mathematicians with Respect to Soft Set Theory
Authors: Acharjee Santanu
Published: March 2018

This paper focuses on two very important questions: “what is the future of a hybrid mathematical structure of soft set in science and social science?” and “why should we take care to use hybrid structures of soft set?”. At present, these are the most fundamental questions; which encircle a few prominent areas of mathematics of uncertainties viz. fuzzy set theory, rough set theory, vague set theory, hesitant fuzzy set theory, IVFS theory, IT2FS theory, etc. In this paper, we review connections of soft set theory and hybrid structures in a non-technical manner; so that it may be helpful for a non-mathematician to think carefully to apply hybrid structures in his research areas. Moreover, we must express that we do not have any intention to nullify contributions of fuzzy set theory or rough set theory, etc. to mankind; but our main intention is to show that we must be careful to develop any new hybrid structure with soft set. Here, we have a short discussion on needs of artificial psychology and artificial philosophy to enrich artificial intelligence.
Taming the Dragon-King of a Day-Ahead Smart Grid Blackout
Authors: Stefanov S. Z. , Wang Paul P.
Published: March 2018

Dragon-King a is introduced in this paper as the manifestation of a disaster incident for a Smart Grid’s blackout for a day-ahead. The quintessential incident is being generated by an artificial black hole, it then spreads quickly into transmission lines. Consequently, it bursts into space-time transition regions. This paper reveals all the essential characteristics of the Dragon-King, it has non-isotropic stochastic kinematics. Regardless of its huge manifestation of unwanted phenomena, the Dragon-King is controllable. We also describe the mechanism of an updated complexity, spinning cosmic string and a messenger system in this paper. Furthermore, the control strategy of the feedback controller which ultimately leads to a stable normal operation is also reported in this paper.
Results on Vague Graphs with Applications in Human Trafficking
Authors: Darabian E. , Borzooei R. A.
Published: March 2018

A vague graph is a generalized structure of a fuzzy graph that gives more precision, exibility, and compatibility to a system when compared with systems that are designed using fuzzy graphs. In this paper, the concepts of eccentricity of nodes, radius and diameter of vague graphs are introduced. The special types of graphs such as eccentrice and antipodal vague graphs are investigated. Then, the relation between eccentrice and antipodal vague graphs are discussed. Finally, an application of eccentrice and antipodal vague graphs in human traffickingn studied.
Fuzzy Semi-Maximal and Fuzzy Radical Ideals in MV-Algebras
Authors: Forouzesh Fereshteh
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we introduce the notions of fuzzy semi-maximal ideals and fuzzy primary ideals of an [Formula: see text]-algebra and investigate some of their properties. Also, several characterizations of these fuzzy ideals are given. In addition, we show that [Formula: see text] is a fuzzy semi-maximal ideal of [Formula: see text] if and only if [Formula: see text] is a semi-simple [Formula: see text]-algebra and [Formula: see text] is a fuzzy primary ideal of [Formula: see text] if and only if [Formula: see text] is local [Formula: see text]-algebra. By using the notions of the maximal and normal fuzzy semi-maximal ideals, we show that under certain conditions a fuzzy semi-maximal ideal is two-valued and takes the values 0 and 1. The radical of a fuzzy ideal is defined as against the (maximal) radical of a fuzzy ideal and some of their properties are proved.
A Score Function-Based Method of Forecasting Using Intuitionistic Fuzzy Time Series
Authors: Abhishekh  , Gautam Surendra Singh , Singh S. R.
Published: March 2018

Intuitionistic fuzzy set plays a vital role in data analysis and decision-making problems. In this paper, we propose an enhanced and versatile method of forecasting using the concept of intuitionistic fuzzy time series (FTS) based on their score function. The developed method has been presented in the form of simple computational steps of forecasting instead of complicated max–min compositions operator of intuitionistic fuzzy sets to compute the relational matrix [Formula: see text]. Also, the proposed method is based on the maximum score and minimum accuracy function of intuitionistic fuzzy numbers (IFNs) to fuzzify the historical time series data. Further intuitionistic fuzzy logical relationship groups are defined and also provide a forecasted value and lies in an interval and is more appropriate rather than a crisp value. Furthermore, the proposed method has been implemented on the historical student enrollments data of University of Alabama and obtains the forecasted values which have been compared with the existing methods to show its superiority. The suitability of the proposed model has also been examined to forecast the movement of share market price of State Bank of India (SBI) at Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). The results of the comparison of MSE and MAPE indicate that the proposed method produces more accurate forecasting results.
Saturation in Fuzzy Graphs
Authors: Mathew Sunil , Yang Hai Long , Mathew Jill K.
Published: March 2018

Edges of a fuzzy graph are mainly classified into [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we study certain saturation counts with respect to the classification of edges. Characterizations for fuzzy cycles, fuzzy trees, blocks in fuzzy graphs and complete fuzzy graphs are also obtained using saturation counts.
t-Norm Fuzzy Graphs
Authors: Mordeson John N. , Mathew Sunil
Published: March 2018

We generalize the definition of a fuzzy graph by replacing minimum in the basic definitions with an arbitrary [Formula: see text]-norm. The reason for this is that some applications are better modeled with a [Formula: see text]-norm other than minimum. We develop a measure on the susceptibility of trafficking in persons for networks by using a [Formula: see text]-norm other than minimum. We also develop a connectivity index for a fuzzy network. In one application, a high connectivity index means a high susceptibility to trafficking. In the other application, we use a method called the eccentricity of an origin country to determine the susceptibility of a network to trafficking in persons. The models rest on the vulnerabilities and the government responses of countries to trafficking.
Change of Thermal Conductivity and Cooling Performance for Water Based Al2O3-Surfactant Nanofluid with Time Lapse
Authors: Kim Man Bae , Park Hong Gen , Park Chang Yong
Published: March 2018

An experimental research was performed to study the effect of time lapse on the change of water-Al2O3 nanofluid thermal conductivity and its convection heat transfer. The size of Al2O3 nanoparticle size was 20[Formula: see text]nm and 70[Formula: see text]nm, and initial volumetric concentration range was from 0.5% to 3%. A surfactant was added to the nanofluid and the change of thermal conductivity and convection heat transfer was also measured. The surfactant was Sodium Dodecyl Benzene Sulfonate (SDBS) and its mass fractions in the nanofluid were from 0.5% to 3.0%. Thermal conductivity of water and nanofluid was measured by the transient hot wire method. The accuracy of the measurement method was confirmed by the measurement error with 0.92% for distilled water at 20[Formula: see text]C. The thermal conductivity of the nanofluid without SDBS increased up to 11.3% and the enhancement decreased with time lapse. The reduction of thermal conductivity enhancement with the time lapse could be retarded by the addition of SDBS and its effect became higher with the increase of its mass fraction. The convection heat transfer characteristics of the nanofluid was measured in a small cooling system. Compared with pure water, nanofluid convection heat transfer could be enhanced but higher pressure drop also occurred. Compared with the convection heat transfer enhancement for the nanofluid without SDBS, the addition of SDBS decreased the enhancement at the initial stage of the experiment, but it could retard the reduction of convection heat transfer with time lapse.
Thermal structure of the Dabie eclogite-bearing terrane revealed from the results of Ti-in-zircon thermometry
Authors: Liu Jingbo , Zhang Lingmin , Cheng Nanfei , Gao Yijie , Xie Liewen
Published: March 2018

Investigation of thermal structure is critical to the interpretation of regional geological structure. This study sampled 12 gneissic outcrops along an approximately 35 km-long profile striking north–south in the Dabie eclogite-bearing terrane. Nanoscale secondary-ion mass spectrometry (Nano-SIMS) was used to analyse the Ti content of zircons from the rocks, and a Ti-in-zircon thermometer was adopted to measure the metamorphic temperatures of formation. Zircons contain three or four different cathodoluminescent (CL) zones, which correspondingly yield significant metamorphic temperature estimates. The metamorphic temperatures decrease along the formation sequence of zircon zones, suggesting that zircon zones formed along an exhumation pressure–temperature (
P
–
T
) path. The peak metamorphic temperatures recorded in zircons from gneissic samples range from 500 to 800°C and appear to be comparable with the results from the eclogites enclosed in corresponding gneisses. The determined peak metamorphic temperatures yield large temperature differences from 50 to 200°C between neighbouring petrological units or samples, which occur within distances of 1–4 km. The distinct temperature differences suggest that the Dabie eclogite-bearing terrane consists of a stack of seven or eight tectonometamorphic slices along the profile.
Intragastric nutrient infusion reduces motivation for food in male and female rats
Authors: Maske Calyn B. , Loney Gregory C. , Lilly Nicole , Terrill Sarah J. , Williams Diana L.
Published: March 2018

The idea that gut-derived satiation signals influence food reward has recently gained traction, but this hypothesis is largely based on studies focused on neural circuitry, not the peripherally released signals. Here, we directly tested the hypothesis that intragastric (IG) nutrient infusion can suppress motivation for food. In a series of experiments, IG sucrose infusion (15 kcal) significantly and reliably reduced operant responding for a sucrose reward on a progressive ratio (PR) schedule. Moreover, food deprivation for 24 h before the test session did not prevent the suppressive effect of nutrients. The suppressive effect of IG sucrose on fixed ratio 5 (FR5) operant responding was also assessed as a comparison. The effect of IG nutrients to reduce motivation was not limited to sucrose; IG Ensure infusion (9.3 kcal) also significantly reduced PR operant responding for sucrose pellets. To verify that these effects were not secondary to the osmotic challenge of concentrated nutrients, we tested IG infusion of noncaloric saline solutions equiosmolar to 40% sucrose or Ensure and found no effect. Finally, we focused on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and cholecystokinin (CCK) as candidate mediators for the effect of IG nutrients. Pretreatment with exendin-9, a GLP-1 receptor antagonist, delivered intraperitoneally, significantly attenuated the ability of IG nutrients to suppress PR responding and breakpoint in males, but not in females, whereas pretreatment with devazepide, a CCKA receptor antagonist, failed to do so in both sexes. Together, these data support the idea that nutrient-induced satiation signals influence food reward and may implicate GLP-1 in this process.
β-Actin shows limited mobility and is required only for supraphysiological insulin-stimulated glucose transport in young adult soleus muscle
Authors: Madsen Agnete B. , Knudsen Jonas R. , Henriquez-Olguin Carlos , Angin Yeliz , Zaal Kristien J. , Sylow Lykke , Schjerling Peter , Ralston Evelyn , Jensen Thomas E.
Published: March 2018

Studies in skeletal muscle cell cultures suggest that the cortical actin cytoskeleton is a major requirement for insulin-stimulated glucose transport, implicating the β-actin isoform, which in many cell types is the main actin isoform. However, it is not clear that β-actin plays such a role in mature skeletal muscle. Neither dependency of glucose transport on β-actin nor actin reorganization upon glucose transport have been tested in mature muscle. To investigate the role of β-actin in fully differentiated muscle, we performed a detailed characterization of wild type and muscle-specific β-actin knockout (KO) mice. The effects of the β-actin KO were subtle; however, we confirmed the previously reported decline in running performance of β-actin KO mice compared with wild type during repeated maximal running tests. We also found insulin-stimulated glucose transport into incubated muscles reduced in soleus but not in extensor digitorum longus muscle of young adult mice. Contraction-stimulated glucose transport trended toward the same pattern, but the glucose transport phenotype disappeared in soleus muscles from mature adult mice. No genotype-related differences were found in body composition or glucose tolerance or by indirect calorimetry measurements. To evaluate β-actin mobility in mature muscle, we electroporated green fluorescent protein (GFP)-β-actin into flexor digitorum brevis muscle fibers and measured fluorescence recovery after photobleaching. GFP-β-actin showed limited unstimulated mobility and no changes after insulin stimulation. In conclusion, β-actin is not required for glucose transport regulation in mature mouse muscle under the majority of the tested conditions. Thus, our work reveals fundamental differences in the role of the cortical β-actin cytoskeleton in mature muscle compared with cell culture.
SRT1720 attenuates obesity and insulin resistance but not liver damage in the offspring due to maternal and postnatal high-fat diet consumption
Authors: Nguyen Long The , Chen Hui , Mak Crystal , Zaky Amgad , Pollock Carol , Saad Sonia
Published: March 2018

Recent studies indicate that sirtuin-1 (SIRT1), an important metabolic sensor and regulator of life span, plays a mechanistic role in maternal obesity-induced programming of metabolic disorders in the offspring. In this study we investigate whether SIRT1 activation in early childhood can mitigate metabolic disorders due to maternal and postnatal high-fat feeding in mice. Male offspring born to chow-fed (MC) or high fat diet-fed dams (MHF) were weaned onto postnatal chow or high-fat diet and treated with SRT1720 (25 mg/kg ip every 2 days) or vehicle control for 6 wk and examined for metabolic disorders. MHF exacerbated offspring body weight and insulin resistance in the offspring exposed to postnatal HFD (OHF). These metabolic changes were associated with reduced hepatic lipid droplet accumulation but increased plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), a marker of liver damage. SRT1720 significantly decreased offspring body weight, adiposity, glucose intolerance, and hyperleptinemia due to OHF and reversed hyperinsulinemia and adipocyte hypertrophy due to the additive effects of MHF. Although SRT1720 suppresses liver lipogenesis, inflammation, and oxidative stress markers, it also reduces antioxidants and increased liver collagen deposition in OHF offspring independent of MHF. Hepatic steatosis was attenuated only in MC/OHF offspring in association with elevated plasma ALT levels. The study suggests that postnatal SRT1720 administration can mitigate obesity and insulin resistance in the offspring due to maternal and postnatal HFD exposure. However, the possibility of liver toxicity needs to be further examined.
Design, Modelling, and Implementation of a Fuzzy Controller for an Intelligent Road Signaling System
Authors: Lozano Domínguez José Manuel , Mateo Sanguino Tomás de J.
Published: March 2018

Crossing points are not always 100% visible for drivers due to different factors (e.g., poor road maintenance, occlusion of vertical signs, and adverse weather conditions). USA estimated in 2015 the number of traffic accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles in 70,000 of whom 5,376 resulted in deceased people. To contribute in this field, this paper presents the design, implementation, and testing of a smart prototype system applied to pedestrian crossings—not regulated by semaphores—which try to reduce the accident rate on roads. The hardware and software system consists of a set of autonomous, intelligent, and wireless low‐cost devices that generate a visual warning barrier perceived by drivers from a suitable distance when pedestrians traverse a crosswalk. In this way, drivers can reduce the speed of their vehicles and stop safely. The system’s intelligence is carried out by a fuzzy controller that performs sensory fusion at both low level and high level with various types of sensors from local and neighboring devices. The tests conducted have determined an average success of 94.64% and a precision of 100%, thus corresponding with a very good test according to a ROC analysis. As a result, the system proposed has been patented and extended to international PCT.
The Assessment of Written Phrasal Constructs and Grammar of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students with Varying Expressive Language Abilities
Authors: Bowers Lisa M. , Dostal Hannah , Wolbers Kimberly A. , Graham Shannon C.
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the written phrasal constructs and grammar usage of deaf and hard of hearing students with varying expressive language skills. Twenty-nine d/hh middle school students attending a residential school for the deaf were divided into three language groups: students using spoken English, ASL/English bilinguals, and language delayed learners. Personal narrative writing samples were collected at the beginning, middle, and end of the academic year. The samples were divided into T-units and coded for language variables, including word efficiency ratio (WER) scores according to the Structural Analysis of Written Language (SAWL) and phrasal errors. The repeated measures ANOVA for WER III showed a statistically significant main effect with no between-subjects factor, demonstrating that students from all three language groups made positive gains in their written outcomes over one academic year. There was a reduction in phrasal errors over the course of the year for all language groups. Differences in word efficiency ratio scores by language groups are discussed. Findings from this study suggest that SAWL is an effective tool in assessing the grammaticality of written compositions for d/hh students with varying language abilities over time. Instructional implications are discussed.
Modeling of Photovoltaic System with Modified Incremental Conductance Algorithm for Fast Changes of Irradiance
Authors: Motahhir Saad , El Ghzizal Abdelaziz , Sebti Souad , Derouich Aziz
Published: March 2018

The first objective of this work is to determine some of the performance parameters characterizing the behavior of a particular photovoltaic (PV) panels that are not normally provided in the manufacturers’ specifications. These provide the basis for developing a simple model for the electrical behavior of the PV panel. Next, using this model, the effects of varying solar irradiation, temperature, series and shunt resistances, and partial shading on the output of the PV panel are presented. In addition, the PV panel model is used to configure a large photovoltaic array. Next, a boost converter for the PV panel is designed. This converter is put between the panel and the load in order to control it by means of a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller. The MPPT used is based on incremental conductance (INC), and it is demonstrated here that this technique does not respond accurately when solar irradiation is increased. To investigate this, a modified incremental conductance technique is presented in this paper. It is shown that this system does respond accurately and reduces the steady-state oscillations when solar irradiation is increased. Finally, simulations of the conventional and modified algorithm are compared, and the results show that the modified algorithm provides an accurate response to a sudden increase in solar irradiation.
Changing Trends in Eye-Related Complaints Presenting to the Emergency Department in Beirut, Lebanon, over 15 Years
Authors: Salti Haytham I. , Mehanna Carl-Joe , Abiad Bachir , Ghazi Nicola , Raad Samih , Barikian Anita , Haddad Randa , Ashkar Adnan , Harmouche Elie , Zaghrini Elie , Mufarrij Afif
Published: March 2018

Objective. To report the 15-year trend in ophthalmic presentations to the emergency department (ED) at the only medical center in Lebanon that provides 24-hour ophthalmologic care. Methods. Retrospective review of 1967 patients presenting to the ED with eye-related complaints between September 1997 and August 1998 and between September 2012 and August 2013. Diagnoses were classified into 4 categories according to the International Society of Ocular Trauma and include penetrating eye injuries, nonpenetrating eye trauma, nontraumatic ophthalmic emergencies, and nontraumatic, nonurgent ophthalmic conditions. Results. One thousand sixty eye-related presentations out of 39,158 total ED visits (2.71%) presented in 1997 compared to 907 out of 46,363 in 2012 (1.96%). Penetrating and nonpenetrating eye emergencies decreased between 1997 and 2012 (7.17% to 4.19%, p=0.003 and 52.64% to 29.00%, p<0.001, resp.) while nonurgent cases increased from 30.19% to 53.47% (p<0.001). 57% of patients were covered by third-party guarantors in 1997 versus 73% in 2012. Conclusion. Our results demonstrate a significant increase in nonurgent cases in parallel with the proportion of third-party payers, an issue to be addressed by public health policies and proper resource allocation. A detailed nationwide review is needed to make solid recommendations for the management of ophthalmologic presentations in the ED.
Identification of Hydrochemical Function and Behavior of the Houzhai Karst Basin, Guizhou Province, Southwestern China
Authors: Li Xian , Wang Yanqiao
Published: March 2018

Due to the difference of geomorphology and the development of fractures, the hydrochemical function and behavior appear to be complex. Variations of karst water conductivity can reflect the contribution of different runoff sources and thus indirectly reflect the development characteristics of conduits and fractures. Taking Houzhai karst system (southwestern China) as a case study, the frequency distribution curves of karst water conductivity were decomposed by Gaussian Mixture Analysis to identify the runoff components of different karst landform. The dominant runoff types had been distinguished, and the relative contribution of the different water types had been investigated. The results showed that the karst flow types were slope flow, rapid fracture flow, and slow fracture flow. Rapid fracture flow was the major recharge type of Houzhai karst water system. Slow fracture flow in the downstream area accounted for a larger proportion than that of the upstream area. The relative contribution of the different runoff components showed that the upstream area was a rapid flow area of conduit structure with low storage capacity, the downstream area was an aquifer spatial structure of netted fissure conduit with high storage capacity, and the midstream area was a transitional zone between the upstream and downstream area.
Drosophilaas a Model System to Study Nonautonomous Mechanisms Affecting Tumour Growth and Cell Death
Authors: Parvy Jean-Philippe , Hodgson Joseph A. , Cordero Julia B.
Published: March 2018

The study of cancer has represented a central focus in medical research for over a century. The great complexity and constant evolution of the pathology require the use of multiple research model systems and interdisciplinary approaches. This is necessary in order to achieve a comprehensive understanding into the mechanisms driving disease initiation and progression, to aid the development of appropriate therapies. In recent decades, the fruit flyDrosophila melanogasterand its associated powerful genetic tools have become a very attractive model system to study tumour-intrinsic and non-tumour-derived processes that mediate tumour developmentin vivo. In this review, we will summarize recent work onDrosophilaas a model system to study cancer biology. We will focus on the interactions between tumours and their microenvironment, including extrinsic mechanisms affecting tumour growth and how tumours impact systemic host physiology.
Long Noncoding RNAs and mRNA Regulation in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Qu Xiaoyan , Dang Xiaomin , Wang Weijia , Li Ying , Xu Dan , Shang Dong , Chang Ying
Published: March 2018

Background. Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We evaluated the lncRNA and mRNA expression profile of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy nonsmokers, smokers without airflow limitation, and COPD patients. Methods. lncRNA and mRNA profiling of PBMCs from 17 smokers and 14 COPD subjects was detected by high-throughput microarray. The expression of dysregulated lncRNAs was validated by qPCR. The lncRNA targets in dysregulated mRNAs were predicted and the GO enrichment was analyzed. The regulatory role of lncRNA ENST00000502883.1 on CXCL16 expression and consequently the effect on PBMC recruitment were investigated by siRNA knockdown and chemotaxis analysis. Results. We identified 158 differentially expressed lncRNAs in PBMCs from COPD subjects compared with smokers. The dysregulated expression of 5 selected lncRNAs NR_026891.1 (FLJ10038), ENST00000502883.1 (RP11-499E18.1), HIT000648516, XR_429541.1, and ENST00000597550.1 (CTD-2245F17.3), was validated. The GO enrichment showed that leukocyte migration, immune response, and apoptosis are the main enriched processes that previously reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of COPD. The regulatory role of ENST00000502883.1 on CXCL16 expression and consequently the effect on PBMC recruitment was confirmed. Conclusion. This study may provide clues for further studies targeting lncRNAs to control inflammation in COPD.
An Integral Formulation of Two‐Parameter Fatigue Crack Growth Model
Authors: Wu Jianguo , Jiang Shan , Zhang Wei , Wang Zili
Published: March 2018

A two‐parameter fatigue crack growth algorithm in integral form is proposed, which can describe the continuous crack growth process over the time period. In this model, the fatigue crack propagation behavior is governed by the temporal crack‐tip state including the current applied load and the physical condition due to the previous load sequence. The plasticity‐induced crack closure, left by the historical loading sequence, controls the following fatigue crack growth behavior and typically leads to the interaction effects. In the proposed method, a modified crack closure model deriving from the local plastic deformation is employed to account for this load memory effect. In general, this model can simulate the fatigue crack growth under variable amplitude loading. Additionally, this model is established on the physical state of crack tip in the small spatial and temporal scale, and it is used to evaluate the macroscopic crack propagation and fatigue life under irregular tension‐tension loading. A special superimposed loading case is discussed to demonstrate the advantage of the proposed model, while the traditional two‐parameter approach is not proper functional. Moreover, the typical various load spectra are also employed to validate the method. Good agreements are observed.
Seismic Behavior of Rammed Earth Walls with Precast Concrete Tie Columns
Authors: Yang Xinlei , Wang Hailiang
Published: March 2018

Rammed earth (RE) constructions are widespread in underdeveloped rural areas in developing countries. However, these RE constructions are often susceptible to earthquake damage due to their poor seismic performance. Precast concrete tie columns and ring beam (tie bars) were proposed to improve the seismic behavior of RE constructions. Four RE walls, including a traditional RE wall and three RE walls with precast concrete tie columns and ring beam (tie bars), were tested under reversed cyclic loading, and the seismic behavior of these tested specimens was evaluated in terms of failure pattern, energy dissipation, displacement ductility, and stiffness degradation. The results showed that a significant increase of the load‐bearing and deformation capacity could be achieved with the application of precast concrete tie columns in combination with RE. The load‐bearing capacity and deformation capacity of traditional RE wall were increased by an average of 113% and 417%, respectively. These test results could provide reference to the design and construction of the environmental‐friendly structures in rural areas.
Inhibin Is a Novel Paracrine Factor for Tumor Angiogenesis and Metastasis
Authors: Singh Priyanka , Jenkins Laura M. , Horst Ben , Alers Victoria , Pradhan Shrikant , Kaur Prabhjot , Srivastava Tapasya , Hempel Nadine , Győrffy Balázs , Broude Eugenia V. , Lee Nam Y. , Mythreye Karthikeyan
Published: March 2018

Inhibin is a heterodimeric TGFβ family ligand that is expressed in many cancers and is a selective biomarker for ovarian cancers; however, its tumor-specific functions remain unknown. Here, we demonstrate that the α subunit of inhibin (INHA), which is critical for the functionality of dimeric inhibin A/B, correlates with microvessel density in human ovarian tissues and is predictive of poor clinical outcomes in multiple cancers. We demonstrate that inhibin-regulated angiogenesis is necessary for metastasis. Although inhibin had no direct impact on tumor cell signaling, both tumor cell-derived and recombinant inhibin elicit a strong paracrine response from endothelial cells by triggering SMAD1/5 activation and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Inhibin-induced angiogenesis was abrogated via anti-inhibin α antibodies. The endothelial-specific TGFβ receptor complex comprising ALK1 and endoglin was a crucial mediator of inhibin signaling, offering a molecular mechanism for inhibin-mediated angiogenesis. These results are the first to define a role for inhibin in tumor metastasis and vascularization and offer an antibody-based approach for targeting inhibin therapeutically.

Significance: Inhibin is a predictor of poor patient survival in multiple cancers and is a potential target for antiangiogenic therapies. Cancer Res; 78(11); 2978–89. ©2018 AACR.
Endogenous Replication Stress Marks Melanomas Sensitive to CHEK1 Inhibitors In Vivo
Authors: Oo Zay Yar , Stevenson Alexander J. , Proctor Martina , Daignault Sheena M. , Walpole Sebastian , Lanagan Catherine , Chen James , Škalamera Dubravka , Spoerri Loredana , Ainger Stephen A. , Sturm Richard A. , Haass Nikolas K. , Gabrielli Brian
Published: March 2018

Purpose: Checkpoint kinase 1 inhibitors (CHEK1i) have single-agent activity in vitro and in vivo. Here, we have investigated the molecular basis of this activity.

Experimental Design: We have assessed a panel of melanoma cell lines for their sensitivity to the CHEK1i GNE-323 and GDC-0575 in vitro and in vivo. The effects of these compounds on responses to DNA replication stress were analyzed in the hypersensitive cell lines.

Results: A subset of melanoma cell lines is hypersensitive to CHEK1i-induced cell death in vitro, and the drug effectively inhibits tumor growth in vivo. In the hypersensitive cell lines, GNE-323 triggers cell death without cells entering mitosis. CHEK1i treatment triggers strong RPA2 hyperphosphorylation and increased DNA damage in only hypersensitive cells. The increased replication stress was associated with a defective S-phase cell-cycle checkpoint. The number and intensity of pRPA2 Ser4/8 foci in untreated tumors appeared to be a marker of elevated replication stress correlated with sensitivity to CHEK1i.

Conclusions: CHEK1i have single-agent activity in a subset of melanomas with elevated endogenous replication stress. CHEK1i treatment strongly increased this replication stress and DNA damage, and this correlated with increased cell death. The level of endogenous replication is marked by the pRPA2Ser4/8 foci in the untreated tumors, and may be a useful marker of replication stress in vivo. Clin Cancer Res; 24(12); 2901–12. ©2018 AACR.
p95HER2 Methionine 611 Carboxy-Terminal Fragment Is Predictive of Trastuzumab Adjuvant Treatment Benefit in the FinHer Trial
Authors: Sperinde Jeff , Huang Weidong , Vehtari Aki , Chenna Ahmed , Kellokumpu-Lehtinen Pirkko-Liisa , Winslow John , Bono Petri , Lie Yolanda S. , Petropoulos Christos J. , Weidler Jodi , Joensuu Heikki
Published: March 2018

Purpose: Expression of p95HER2 (p95), a truncated form of the HER2 receptor, which lacks the trastuzumab binding site but retains kinase activity, has been reported as a prognostic biomarker for poor outcomes in patients with trastuzumab-treated HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. The impact of p95 expression on trastuzumab treatment efficacy in early HER2-positive breast cancer is less clear. In the current study, p95 was tested as a predictive marker of trastuzumab treatment benefit in the HER2-positive subset of the FinHer adjuvant phase III trial.

Experimental Design: In the FinHer trial, 232 patients with HER2-positive early breast cancer were randomized to receive chemotherapy plus 9 weeks of trastuzumab or no trastuzumab treatment. Quantitative p95 protein expression was measured in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples using the p95 VeraTag assay (Monogram Biosciences), specific for the M611 form of p95. Quantitative HER2 protein expression was measured using the HERmark assay (Monogram Biosciences). Distant disease-free survival (DDFS) was used as the primary outcome measure.

Results: In the arm receiving chemotherapy only, increasing log10(p95) correlated with shorter DDFS (HR, 2.0; P = 0.02). In the arm receiving chemotherapy plus trastuzumab (N = 95), increasing log10(p95) was not correlated with a shorter DDFS. In a combined analysis of both treatment arms, high breast tumor p95 content was significantly correlated with trastuzumab treatment benefit in multivariate models (interaction P = 0.01).

Conclusions: A high p95HER2/HER2 ratio identified patients with metastatic breast cancer with poor outcomes on trastuzumab-based therapies. Further investigation of the p95HER2/HER2 ratio as a potential prognostic or predictive biomarker for HER2-targeted therapy is warranted. Clin Cancer Res; 24(13); 3046–52. ©2018 AACR.