bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction Model for Asphalt Pavement Temperature in High‐Temperature Season in Beijing
Authors: Chao Jing , Jinxi Zhang
Published: July 2018

Asphalt pavement temperatures greatly influence on the bearing capacity and performance, especially in high‐temperature season. The variation rules of pavement temperatures under the high‐temperature range affect the design and maintenance management of the asphalt pavement, as well as the accurate prediction for pavement temperatures. However, asphalt pavement temperature is greatly affected by various strongly correlated environmental factors and cannot be measured directly or predicted effectively. In this project, temperature sensors were embedded in the pavement of in‐service road to collect temperature data by continuous record measurement, and regression model was conducted by the partial least squares method through comprehensive analysis on the pavement temperature data and synchronously environmental data from local weather station measured in July 2013, July 2014, and July 2015. The quantitative relationships in high‐temperature season between environmental factors and pavement temperature were determined, and a model was established to predict the temperature of asphalt pavement based on environmental data. The model was verified by the recorded data from July 1, 2016, to July 31, 2016, and the results indicated that the pavement temperature can be predicted accurately and reliably by the proposed model.
A Simulated Annealing Algorithm to Construct Covering Perfect Hash Families
Authors: Torres-Jimenez Jose , Izquierdo-Marquez Idelfonso
Published: July 2018

Covering perfect hash families (CPHFs) are combinatorial designs that represent certain covering arrays in a compact way. In previous works, CPHFs have been constructed using backtracking, tabu search, and greedy algorithms. Backtracking is convenient for small CPHFs, greedy algorithms are appropriate for large CPHFs, and metaheuristic algorithms provide a balance between execution time and quality of solution for small and medium-size CPHFs. This work explores the construction of CPHFs by means of a simulated annealing algorithm. The neighborhood function of this algorithm is composed of three perturbation operators which together provide exploration and exploitation capabilities to the algorithm. As main computational results we have the generation of 64 CPHFs whose derived covering arrays improve the best-known ones. In addition, we use the simulated annealing algorithm to construct quasi-CPHFs from which quasi covering arrays are derived that are then completed and postoptimized; in this case the number of new covering arrays is 183. Together, the 247 new covering arrays improved the upper bound of 683 covering array numbers.
Joint Decision on Ordering and Pricing of Cruise Tourism Supply Chain with Competing Newsboy-Type Retailers
Authors: Shi Miaoqing , Liu Bin
Published: July 2018

Cruise industry has recorded rapid expansion during the last decades, and it has substantial contribution to local economies. In this paper, we introduce a cruise tourism supply chain system consisting of one supplier and two newsboy-type retailers. We investigate the optimal decisions in a decentralized system from a game theoretical perspective and find out the optimal ordering and pricing strategies of both retailers and the optimal wholesale prices of the supplier with the limited number of cruise tickets and try to find out how the total profits should be allocated by the two retailers in the alliance case. Our framework involves two operational strategies, including inconsistent wholesale prices in the benchmark case and consistent wholesale price in the alliance case in which the two retailers have a virtual alliance, combining to one retailer. A numerical example compares the performance of the supply chain members and the system in two cases and finds that it is better for the two retailers to have a virtual alliance, combining to one retailer when the total amount of cruise tickets ordered by the two retailers is constrained by the total number of cruise tickets for the supplier, but it is not good choice for the two retailers to combine to one retailer when the total number of cruise tickets for the supplier does not constrain the total amount of cruise tickets ordered by the two retailers. In addition, the performance of the system in the alliance case is as good as that in the benchmark case when the total amount of cruise tickets ordered by the two retailers is constrained by the total number of cruise tickets for the supplier. However, when the total number of cruise tickets for the supplier does not constrain the total amount of cruise tickets ordered by the two retailers, the performance of the system in the benchmark case is better than that in the alliance case.
A Comparison of Traditional and Novel Methods for the Separation of Exosomes from Human Samples
Authors: Yu Li-Li , Zhu Jing , Liu Jin-Xia , Jiang Feng , Ni Wen-Kai , Qu Li-Shuai , Ni Run-Zhou , Lu Cui-Hua , Xiao Ming-Bing
Published: July 2018

Exosomes are discrete populations of small (40-200 nm in diameter) membranous vesicles that are released into the extracellular space by most cell types, eventually accumulating in the circulation. As molecular messengers, exosomes exert a broad array of vital physiologic functions by transporting information between different cell types. Because of these functional properties, they may have potential as biomarker sources for prognostic and diagnostic disease. Recent research has found that exosomes have potential to be utilized as drug delivery agents for therapeutic targets. However, basic researches on exosomes and researches on their therapeutic potential both require the existence of effective and rapid methods for their separation from human samples. In the current absence of a standardized method, there are several methods available for the separation of exosomes, but very few studies have previously compared the efficiency and suitability of these different methods. This review summarized and compared the available traditional and novel methods for the extraction of exosomes from human samples and considered their advantages and disadvantages for use in clinical laboratories and point-of-care settings.
Heronian Mean Operator of Linguistic Neutrosophic Cubic Numbers and Their Multiple Attribute Decision-Making Methods
Authors: Fan Changxing , Ye Jun
Published: July 2018

Many aggregation operators in multiattribute decisions assume that attributes are independent of each other; this leads to an unreasonable situation in information aggregation and decision-making. Heronian mean is the aggregation operator that can embody the interaction between attributes. In this paper, we merge the linguistic neutrosophic cubic number (LNCN) and the Heronian mean operator together to develop a LNCN generalized weighted Heronian mean (LNCNGWHM) operator and a LNCN three-parameter weighted Heronian mean (LNCNTPWHM) operator and then discuss their properties. Further, two multiattribute decision methods based on the proposed LNCNGWHM or LNCNTPWHM operator are introduced under LNCN environment. Finally, an example is used to indicate the effectiveness of the developed methods.
Quality Characteristics and Antioxidant Activities of Rice/Adzuki Bean Mixtures Cooked Using Two Different Methods
Authors: Woo Koan Sik , Kim Hyun-Joo , Lee Ji Hae , Lee Byong Won , Lee Yu Young , Lee Byoung Kyu , Ko Jee Yeon
Published: July 2018

This study explored the optimal preparation and the antioxidant levels of rice/adzuki bean mixtures. We compared the quality and physicochemical characteristics of cooked mixtures of rice and adzuki beans prepared using normal and high-pressure rice cookers, with and without the addition of alcohol (15%, v/v). The water-binding capacity and swelling power decreased upon addition of adzuki beans, but water solubility increased. The peak, trough, final, and setback viscosities decreased, but the breakdown viscosity increased. The total polyphenol and flavonoid contents increased after addition of adzuki beans. Total polyphenol contents in cooked rice/20% (w/w) Arari and Geomguseul bean mixtures in a normal cooker with addition of alcohol were 3.00 and 3.09 times higher than plain rice. The flavonoid contents were 10.33 and 8.90 times higher than plain rice. The predominant phenolic acids in cooked rice/Arari bean mixtures were p-coumaric acid and trans-3-hydroxycinnamic acid, and in cooked rice/Geomguseul bean mixtures, they were syringic acid and trans-3-hydroxycinnamic acid. Overall, phenolic acid levels were higher in mixtures cooked in plain water. The DPPH- and ABTS-radical-scavenging activities increased upon addition of adzuki beans. DPPH radical-scavenging activities in cooked rice/20% (w/w) Arari and Geomguseul bean mixtures in a normal cooker with addition of alcohol were 9.09 and 9.22 times higher than plain rice. ABTS radical-scavenging activities were 8.74 and 9.01 times higher than plain rice. Moreover, rice/adzuki bean mixtures prepared in a normal cooker, with addition of alcohol, exhibited higher antioxidant levels than other samples. We present the antioxidative properties of rice/adzuki bean mixtures prepared in different ways; these data will aid manufacturers.
Effect of a Cooperation Strategy between Primary Care Physicians and Hospital Liver Units on HBV Care in Campania, Italy
Authors: Zampino Rosa , Capoluongo Nicolina , Boemio Adriana , Macera Margherita , Vitrone Martina , Adinolfi Luigi Elio , Filippini Pietro , Sagnelli Evangelista , Sagnelli Caterina , Durante-Mangoni Emanuele , Coppola Nicola
Published: July 2018

Aims. This study is aimed at assessing the efficacy of an active search and treat strategy for HBV-infected subjects in an endemic area (Campania, Italy). To do this, we created a cooperation bundle between 24 General Practitioners (GPs) and 3 Hospital Liver Units (HLU). We assessed whether this strategy improved the detection of HBV infection in patients at risk and the overall quality of care, with the aim of reducing liver disease progression. Methods. We estimated that, among about 20,000 patients cared for by the 24 GPs, approximately 280 patients unaware of or underestimating HBV infection would be found. Identified patients were to be referred to the HLU for clinical evaluation and treatment from February 2016 for 12 months. Results. Unexpectedly, screening and enrolment were poor (48 patients only). GP workloads, patient financial difficulties, and patients' refusal were the major causes of enrolment failure according to GPs. All patients referred to HLU completed the program; most of them were HBV inactive carriers. Conclusions. This program failed to scavenge chronic HBV-infected patients in an endemic area and establish a successful clinical collaboration between GPs and HLU. Underlying reasons are diverse and call for new strategies to implement cooperation between primary care providers and hospital specialists.
Solidification Microstructure Evolution of Undercooled Cu‐15 wt.% Fe Alloy Melt
Authors: Sun Xiaosi , Hao Weixin , Geng Guihong , Ma Teng , Li Yongtang
Published: July 2018

The solidification microstructure evolution of undercooled Cu‐15 wt.% Fe alloy melt was studied in this study by the combined method of glass fluxing and overheating. The liquidus and peritectic reaction temperatures of Cu‐15 wt.% Fe were experimentally obtained, and the obtained results were consistent with the previous studies. Based on the experimental results and related theories, the solidification process and microstructure evolution of undercooled Cu‐15 wt.% Fe alloy melt were illustrated. The conclusions provide the basis to the further study on the liquid‐phase separation and application of copper‐iron alloy.
Mixed Noise Removal Algorithm Combining Adaptive Directional Weighted Mean Filter and Improved Adaptive Anisotropic Diffusion Model
Authors: Ma Hongjin , Nie Yufeng
Published: July 2018

A mixed noise removal algorithm combining adaptive directional weighted mean filter and improved adaptive anisotropic diffusion model is proposed. Firstly, a noise classification method is introduced to divide all pixels into two types as the pixels corrupted by impulse noise and the pixels corrupted by Gaussian noise. Then an adaptive directional weighted mean filter is developed to remove impulse noise, which can adaptively select the optimal direction template from twelve direction templates and replace the gray level of each impulse noise corrupted pixel by the weighted mean gray level of pixels on the optimal direction template. Finally, an improved adaptive anisotropic diffusion model is developed to remove Gaussian noise in the initial denoised image, which can finely classify image features as smooth regions, edges, corners, and isolated noises by characteristic parameters and variance parameter and conduct adaptive diffusion for different image features by designing reasonable eigenvalues of diffusion tensor. A large number of experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms many existing main mixed noise removal methods in terms of image denoising and detail preservation.
An Optimization Problem for Quadcopter Reference Flight Trajectory Generation
Authors: Eliker Karam , Zhang Guoqing , Grouni Said , Zhang Weidong
Published: July 2018

This paper deals with the reference flight trajectory generation and planning problems for quadcopter Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The reference flight trajectory is defined as the composition of path and motion functions. Both of them are generated by using quintic B-spline functions. Based on differential flatness approach, the quadcopter dynamical constraints are satisfied instantaneously by computing the induced aerodynamical moments and lift force. The optimal reference flight trajectory, with respect to the mission requirements and imposed constraints, is reached by manipulating the control points’ vectors of B-spline functions via a nonlinear constrained optimization method. The mission requirements are defined as a set of waypoints with their respective scheduled flight timetable. A minimum-energy cost function is developed to minimize the consumed energy and induced efforts by reference flight trajectory. For the need of the optimal overfly-times schedule, the overfly times with respect to the defined constraints and performance criteria are calculated. Numerical simulation results show the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed optimization method.
Impact of Attitudinal Ambivalence on Safety Behaviour in Construction
Authors: Xu Sheng , Zou Patrick X. W. , Luo Hanbin
Published: July 2018

Unsafe acts have been identified as a major factor of construction accidents. The Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) has been used to explain the factors influencing unsafe behaviour, by establishing the relationship between attitude, intention, and behaviour. However, the existing research on the relationship between safety attitude and safety behaviour could not fully explain the decision‐making process of unsafe acts, in that the relationship could be mediated by attitudinal ambivalence, which is caused by conflicting information sources and the social network pressure of peer workers. This research examined whether attitudinal ambivalence was a mediating factor, either fully or partially, in the relationship between safety attitude and safety behaviour by expanding the TPB model. Data were collected from questionnaire survey of 228 construction workers. The results showed that attitudinal ambivalence existed as a partial mediating factor in the relationship between safety attitude and safety behaviour. This paper contributed to the body of knowledge on safety management by recognizing the role of attitudinal ambivalence in construction workers and integrated it into the TPB model. This research will be helpful in providing greater understanding of the dynamic and complex decision‐making process of unsafe behaviour given multiple information sources and conflicting environments.
Possible Enzymatic Downregulation of the Natriuretic Peptide System in Patients with Reduced Systolic Function and Heart Failure: A Pilot Study
Authors: Zaidi Syed S. , Ward Ryan D. , Ramanathan Kodangudi , Yu Xinhua , Gladysheva Inna P. , Reed Guy L.
Published: July 2018

Background. In patients with reduced systolic function, the natriuretic peptide system affects heart failure (HF) progression, but the expression of key activating (corin) and degrading enzymes (neprilysin) is not well understood. Methods and Results. This pilot study (n=48) compared plasma levels of corin, neprilysin, ANP, BNP, and cGMP in control patients with normal ejection fractions (mean EF 63±3%) versus patients with systolic dysfunction, with (EF 24±8%) and without (EF 27±7%) decompensated HF (dHF), as defined by Framingham and BNP criteria. Mean ages, use of beta blockers, and ACE-inhibitors-angiotensin receptor blockers were similar between the groups. Corin levels were depressed in systolic dysfunction patients (797±346 pg/ml) versus controls (1188±549, p<0.02), but levels were not affected by dHF (p=0.77). In contrast, levels of neprilysin (p<0.01), cGMP (p<0.001), and ANP (p<0.001) were higher in systolic dysfunction patients than controls and were the highest in patients with dHF. Conclusions. Levels of neprilysin, ANP, BNP, and cGMP increased in patients with reduced systolic function and were the highest in dHF patients. Conversely, corin levels were low in patients with reduced EF with or without dHF. This pattern suggests possible enzymatic downregulation of natriuretic peptide activity in patients with reduced EF, which may have diagnostic and prognostic implications.
The Role of Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte Counts from Urethra, Cervix, and Vaginal Wet Mount in Diagnosis of Nongonococcal Lower Genital Tract Infection
Authors: Randjelovic Ivana , Moghaddam Amir , Freiesleben de Blasio Birgitte , Moi Harald
Published: July 2018

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) inflammatory response in women with nongonococcal lower genital tract infection (LGTI) can be used to optimize criteria for syndromic treatment. Methods. A cross-sectional study of 375 women attending the STI clinic in Oslo. Urethral, cervical, and vaginal specimens underwent microscopy for PMNLs. Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) and other STIs were detected in the cervical/vaginal swabs and urine, using nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT). After excluding vulvovaginal candidiasis, genital herpes, and trichomoniasis, we correlated clinical and microscopic signs of inflammation with positive NAAT for Ct, mycoplasma genitalium (Mg), and Ureaplasma urealyticum (Uu) in a subgroup of 293 women. Results. To predict a positive Ct, the combination of high cut-off urethritis (≥10 PMNLs/HPF) and microscopic cervicitis had a high specificity of 0.93, a PPV of 0.37, and a sensitivity of 0.35. LGTI criteria had low predicting values for Mg and Uu. Conclusion. Including microscopic criteria for the diagnosis of LGTI gives better indication for presumptive antibiotic treatment than anamnestic and clinical diagnosis alone.
Optimal Design of a Dragonfly-Inspired Compliant Joint for Camera Positioning System of Nanoindentation Tester Based on a Hybrid Integration of Jaya-ANFIS
Authors: Chau Ngoc Le , Dao Thanh-Phong , Nguyen Van Thanh Tien
Published: July 2018

Camera positioning system is a critical member of a nanoindentation tester characterizing the mechanical properties such as hardness, creep, surface roughness, or elastic modulus of a material sample. This paper presents a design optimization for a dragonfly-inspired compliant joint. This joint is used to drive the camera positioning system. A new hybrid approach of Taguchi method, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), and Jaya algorithm is developed to solve the multi-objective optimization problem. The Taguchi method is used to build the numerical data and to find the best membership functions for the ANFIS structure by minimizing the root mean squared error. Then, the weight factor of each objective function is determined by established equations well. Subsequently, a structure of ANFIS is developed to map the design parameters and responses. Sensitivity analysis of each controllable parameter is analyzed by the statistical method. Finally, Jaya algorithm is initialized to find the optimal solution. The results found that the optimal displacement, frequency, and stress are about 12581.11 μm, 67.76 Hz, and 333.68 MPa, respectively. The proposed hybrid optimization algorithm is a robust and effective optimizer and considered as soft computing technique for engineering optimization problems.
Multifractal Detrended Cross‐Correlation Analysis of the Return‐Volume Relationship of Bitcoin Market
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Pengfei , Li Xiao , Shen Dehua
Published: July 2018

We investigate the cross‐correlations of return‐volume relationship of the Bitcoin market. In particular, we select eight exchange rates whose trading volume accounts for more than 98% market shares to synthesize Bitcoin indexes. The empirical results based on multifractal detrended cross‐correlation analysis (MF‐DCCA) reveal that (1) the nonlinear dependencies and power‐law cross‐correlations in return‐volume relationship are found; (2) all cross‐correlations are multifractal, and there are antipersistent behaviors of cross‐correlation for q = 2; (3) the price of small fluctuations is more persistent than that of the volume, while the volume of larger fluctuations is more antipersistent; and (4) the rolling window method shows that the cross‐correlations of return‐volume are antipersistent in the entire sample period.
A Model for the Analysis of Ultimate Capacity of RC and PC Corroded Beams
Authors: Recupero Antonino , Spinella Nino , Tondolo Francesco
Published: July 2018

Corrosion of steel in reinforced and prestressed concrete beams is very common for structures and infrastructures. It can drastically reduce the resisting section of rebar, modify the mechanical response of the steel rebar, and also determine cracking of the surrounding concrete because of the volume expansion effect of rust. Moreover, it heavily influences the bond between steel rebar and concrete. Few experimental tests are available in the literature, where the structural behavior of reinforced and prestressed concrete beams, in presence of corrosion of longitudinal and transversal reinforcement, is analyzed. A reduction of the bearing performance is observed with an increasing level of rebar corrosion. Indeed, a changing collapse mechanism is evidenced through the tests and may be addressed to the not obvious consequences of corrosion. In this paper, a physical model based on a consistent equilibrium and ultimate strength theory is employed in order to explain the residual capacity of corroded beams. The model is based on limit analysis, and it is able to take into account the interaction between shear, bending moment, and axial forces.
Case Report of Subanesthetic Intravenous Ketamine Infusion for the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain and Depression with Suicidal Features in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Weber Garret , Yao JuHan , Binns Shemeica , Namkoong Shinae
Published: July 2018

Chronic neuropathic pain and depression are often comorbid. Ketamine has been used to treat refractory pain. There is emerging evidence for use in depression. We present a case of a pediatric patient who was successfully treated with subanesthetic intravenous ketamine infusion for chronic neuropathic pain and suicidality.
Impact Behavior of a Laterally Loaded Guardrail Post near Slopes by Hybrid SPH Model
Authors: Woo Kwang S. , Lee Dong W. , Ahn Jae S.
Published: July 2018

Based on the assumption that guardrail systems are placed in soil with horizontal ground, interaction behavior between soil and a post has been presented using some relevant theories such as the theory of subgrade reaction, Winkler’s spring theory, and the nonlinear p‐y curve method. However, they can be constructed on cut slopes or compacted sloping embankments beside the roadway. Thus, the theory based on the conventional discrete spring models cannot be directly applied to the sloping ground since the ground inclination significantly affects the ultimate soil resistance. In this study, two approaches for comparison of them are adopted to present the interaction behavior between soil and the post. One of them is the three‐dimensional Lagrangian approach, and the other is the hybrid approach that combines the finite elements and the particles based on SPH (smoothed particle hydrodynamics) modeling. The SPH method is expected to overcome drawbacks of large mesh distortion in soil regions consisting of node‐connected finite elements due to lateral movement of the guardrail post. The soil‐post interaction in the sloping ground under conditions of quasi‐static and dynamic loads is investigated according to ground inclination, embedment length, and embedment location of the post near the slope.
Study of Homogeneous and Isotropic Universe in f(R,Tφ) Gravity
Authors: Sharif M. , Siddiqa Aisha
Published: July 2018

This paper is devoted to study the cosmological behavior of homogeneous and isotropic universe model in the context of f(R,Tφ) gravity, where φ is the scalar field. For this purpose, we follow the first-order formalism defined by H=W(φ). We evaluate Hubble parameter, effective equation of state parameter (ωeff), deceleration parameter, and potential of scalar field for three different values of W(φ). We obtain phantom era in some cases for the early times. It is found that exponential expression of W(φ) yields ωeff independent of time for flat universe and independent of model parameter otherwise. It is concluded that our model corresponds to ΛCDM for both initial and late times.
Prediction Model of Failure Zone in Roadway Sidewall considering the Lithologic Effect of Rock Formation
Authors: Zhao Zenghui , Ma Qing , Chen Shaojie , Ma He , Gao Xiaojie
Published: July 2018

Coal seam damage area and its stress distribution law in roadway with medium thickness or extrathick coal seam are important issues for understanding the instability mechanism of roadway surrounding rock in weakly cemented soft rock strata in western China. Firstly, a variable parameter microelement analysis model is established based on the assumption of a plane stress integrating with the coal seam-rock’s interface and the rock formation on both sides; moreover, a formula is established by the strain compatibility relationship to express the state of stress in rock bodies on both sides of the interface. Then, a method for calculating the stress limit equilibrium zone width of the coal side and regional stress distribution is presented, which considers the coupling effect of the coal side-rock formation and is based on the loose medium limit equilibrium theory. Finally, the validity of the model is verified through a comparison with previous research and by being applied to an engineering example. The results show the following: (1) the interface adhesion effect results in an abrupt change of the stress state of both the rock formation and coal seam and is related to their deformation parameters; i.e., there is a coupling effect; (2) the limit equilibrium zone width is not only related to the buried depth of the roadway, excavated coal seam thickness, coal seam strength parameters, stress concentration factor, lateral pressure coefficient, and supporting strength of the side of the roadway, but it also has an effect on the aforementioned coupling effect; (3) due to the roof-coal seam-floor comprehensive structural effect, the model presented in this paper is applicable to both the coal seam failure and the failure along the coal seam-rock’s interface.
Cancer-Specific and General Nutritional Scores and Cancer Risk: Results from the Prospective NutriNet-Santé Cohort
Authors: Lavalette Céline , Adjibade Moufidath , Srour Bernard , Sellem Laury , Fiolet Thibault , Hercberg Serge , Latino-Martel Paule , Fassier Philippine , Deschasaux Mélanie , Kesse-Guyot Emmanuelle , Touvier Mathilde
Published: July 2018

Several national and international authorities have proposed nutritional and lifestyle recommendations with the aim of improving health of the general population. Scores of adherence to these recommendations can be calculated at the individual level. Here, we investigated the associations between four nutritional scores and overall, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer risk in a large prospective population-based cohort: the cancer-specific World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research (WCRF/AICR) score, the Alternate Healthy Eating Index 2010 (AHEI-2010), a score based on adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MEDI-LITE), and the French National Nutrition Health Program-Guideline Score (PNNS-GS). This study included 41,543 participants aged ≥40 years from the NutriNet-Santé cohort (2009–2017). A total of 1,489 overall incident cancers were diagnosed. A one-point increment of the WCRF/AICR score was significantly associated with decreased overall [12%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 8%–16%; P < 0.0001], breast (14%; 95% CI, 6%–21%; P = 0.001), and prostate (12%; 95% CI, 0%–22%; P = 0.05) cancer risks. Hazard ratio for colorectal cancer risk was 0.86 (95% CI, 0.72–1.03; P = 0.09). The PNNS-GS score was associated with reduced colorectal cancer risk (P = 0.04) and AHEI-2010 was associated with reduced overall cancer risk (P = 0.03). The WCRF/AICR score performed best. Compared with other tested scores, it included a stronger penalty for alcohol, which is a major risk factor for several cancer sites. Better adherence to nutritional recommendations, especially those designed for cancer prevention, could substantially contribute to decreased cancer incidence.

Significance: This large prospective population-based cohort study suggests that following dietary recommendations such as the ones proposed by the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research could significantly contribute to cancer prevention. Cancer Res; 78(15); 4427–35. ©2018 AACR.
Retention of Stroke Education Provided during Hospitalization: Does Provision of Required Education Increase Stroke Knowledge?
Authors: Johnson Brenda , Handler Diane , Urrutia Victor , Alexandrov Anne W.
Published: July 2018

Background: Provision of stroke education to patients is a Centers for Medicare/Medicaid (CMS) requirement. However, little is known about retention of the educational content. Methods: Two pilot studies were conducted: Pilot A delivered CMS-required stroke education during hospitalization in a standardized manner and tested knowledge retention in patients returning to the Stroke Clinic for 1-month follow-up; Pilot B randomized patients to either a control group with standardized education or a test-enhanced learning group (target), with measurement of stroke knowledge retention at hospital discharge. Results: A total of 198 patients/caregivers participated in Pilot A, with only 25% scoring 100% correct on required stroke education items. The question most commonly answered incorrectly (n = 117; 59%) was “personal risk factors for stroke,” and 74 (37%) could not correctly identify stroke signs and symptoms. Pilot B found that significantly more target group patients could identify their personal stroke risk factors (100 vs. 67%; p = 0.04) and the purpose of their secondary prevention medications (87 vs. 40%; p = 0.02) compared to controls. Discussion: While stroke education is required during hospitalization, its ability to produce retention may be poor. We propose study of test-enhanced learning methods through the Targeted Education in Stroke Trial (TEST) to examine the effect of novel teaching methods on patient/caregiver knowledge retention.
Ischemic-Reperfusion Injury Increases Matrix Metalloproteinases and Tissue Metalloproteinase Inhibitors in Fetal Sheep Brain
Authors: Chen Xiaodi , Patra Aparna  , Sadowska Grazyna B. , Stonestreet Barbara S.
Published: July 2018

Hypoxic-ischemic brain injury is a leading cause of neurodevelopmental morbidities in preterm and full-term infants. Blood-brain barrier dysfunction represents an important component of perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a vital component of the blood-brain barrier. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are important ECM components. They contribute to brain development, blood-brain barrier maintenance, and to regenerative and repair processes after hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. We hypothesized that ischemia at different durations of reperfusion affects the ECM protein composition of MMPs and TIMPs in the cerebral cortex of fetal sheep. Cerebral cortical samples were snap-frozen from sham control fetuses at 127 days of gestation and from fetuses after exposure to 30-min carotid occlusion and 4-, 24-, and 48-h of reperfusion. Protein expression of MMP-2, -8, -9, and -13 and TIMP-1, -2, -3, and -4 was measured by Western immunoblotting along with the gelatinolytic activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 by zymography. The expression of MMP-8 was increased (Kruskal-Wallis, p = 0.04) in fetuses 48 h after ischemia. In contrast, changes were not observed in the protein expression of MMP-2, -9, or -13. The gelatinolytic activity of pro-MMP-2 was increased (ANOVA, p = 0.02, Tukey HSD, p = 0.05) 24 h after ischemia. TIMP-1 and -3 expression levels were also higher (TIMP-1, ANOVA, p = 0.003, Tukey HSD, p = 0.01; TIMP-3, ANOVA, p = 0.006, Tukey HSD, p = 0.01) 24 h after ischemia compared with both the sham controls and with fetuses exposed to 4 h of reperfusion. The changes in the expression of TIMP-1, -2, and -3 correlated with the changes in the MMP-8 and -13 protein expression. We speculate that regulation of MMP-8, MMP-13, and TIMPs contributes to ECM remodeling after is chemic-reperfusion injury in the fetal brain.
Aqueous Humor Levels of Cytokines in Patients with Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Mimura Tatsuya , Funatsu Hideharu , Noma Hidetaka , Shimura Masahiko , Kamei Yuko , Yoshida Maiko , Kondo Aki , Watanabe Emiko , Mizota Atsushi
Published: July 2018

Purpose: To compare aqueous humor levels of various cytokines between patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract patients. Methods: Thirteen eyes with wet-type AMD (AMD group) and 14 eyes with cataract (cataract group) were studied. Aqueous humor levels of 11 factors (vascular endothelial growth factor receptors, growth factors, and inflammatory factors) were measured by the suspension array method. Results: Aqueous humor levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (sVEGFR)-1, sVEGFR-2, and inflammatory factors (monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-8) were significantly higher in the AMD group than in the cataract group (all p < 0.05). In contrast, aqueous humor levels of placental growth factor (PGF), tumor necrosis factor-α, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM)-1, IL-12 (p70), and IL-13 showed no significant difference between the two groups. There were significant correlations between sVEGFR-1 or sVEGFR-2 levels and some of the inflammatory molecules (PGF, sICAM-1, MCP-1, IL-6, and IL-8). Conclusions: These findings suggest that various cytokines/growth factors involved in inflammation and angiogenesis may be associated with the pathogenesis of AMD.
Ultraviolet Inactivation of Chikungunya Virus
Authors: Mathew Asha Maria , Mun Amol Baburao , Balakrishnan Anukumar
Published: July 2018

Objective: Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a rapidly emerging arbovirus causing millions of infections in more than 40 countries. CHIKV is typically a biosafety level 3 pathogen in many countries and handling of CHIKV requires a high standard of laboratory safety settings. Many studies require the whole virus to be handled in a biosafety level 2 setting. A potential solution for managing this problem is pathogen inactivation without affecting its antigenicity. In the present study, we attempted to inactivate CHIKV by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Methods: Different UV doses were used to inactivate CHIKV. The replication status of the inactivated virus was verified in cell lines. Western blot, electron microscopy, and immune fluorescence assay were used, respectively, to view the antigenicity, structural integrity, and entry of the virus into cell lines. Results: The inactivation was complete when a UV dose of 0.09 J/cm2 for 3 × 30 s was used and no change in antigenicity and integrity was observed. Conclusions: The study concludes that the UV-inactivated virus is antigenically stable and could be used in biosafety level 2 settings for different experiments.
Cause-Specific Mortality in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Airy Medha , Schold Jesse D. , Jolly Stacey E. , Arrigain Susana , Bansal Nisha , Winkelmayer Wolfgang C. , Nally Jr Joseph V. , Navaneethan Sankar D.
Published: July 2018

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with death in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We examined the associations between AF and cause-specific mortality in a large CKD population. Methods: We included 62,459 patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate 15–59 mL/min/1.73 m2 (6,639 patients with AF and 55,820 without AF) followed in a large health care system. Outcomes included overall and cause-specific deaths (a) cardiovascular; (b) malignancy; and (c) non-cardiovascular/non-malignancy causes. Cox regression models for overall mortality and separate competing risk models for each major cause of death category were used to evaluate their respective associations with AF. Results: During a median follow-up of 4.1 years, 19,094 patients died; cause of death was known for 18,854 patients. After multivariable adjustment (demographics, comorbidities, relevant laboratory data, medication use, and kidney function), AF was associated with 23% (95% CI 18–29%) higher risk of all-cause mortality, 45% (95% CI 31–61%) higher risk of cardiovascular mortality and 13% (95% CI 3–22%) lower risk of malignancy-related mortality. Exclusion of patients with malignancy yielded similar results except for a lack of association between AF and malignancy-related deaths. Results were consistent across various stages of CKD. Conclusions: In a non-dialysis-dependent CKD population, the presence of AF was associated with higher all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. These data suggest that patients with both CKD and AF are at high cardiovascular risk, and thus clinical practice (or trials) should aim at reducing the overall excess cardiovascular mortality (not stroke alone) in patients with AF and CKD.
Renal Hypoxia: An Important Prognostic Marker in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zhou Hua , Yang Min , Jiang Zhenxing , Ding Jiule , Di Jia , Cui Li
Published: July 2018

Background: Blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD)-MRI is a novel and noninvasive tool that can assess renal oxygenation. The R2* value is a parameter of tissue deoxyhemoglobin concentration detected by BOLD-MRI. The purpose of the current study was to determine the relationships between renal R2* values and clinical parameters and to determine whether renal R2* values were associated with the risk for progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: Sixty patients with CKD were enrolled in this prospective observational study in China from March 2013 to August 2014. A region of interest-based BOLD-MRI was performed to obtain cortical and medullary R2* (CR2* and MR2*) values. Data on demographics and clinical characteristics were collected. The primary end point (CKD progression) was defined as an absolute 30% decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR; CKD-Epidemiology Collaboration equations) or initiation of dialysis during follow-up. Results: The CR2* and MR2* values in patients with CKD were significantly higher compared with those of healthy controls. The CR2* levels were positively associated with 24-h urinary protein excretion, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and uric acid but negatively associated with baseline eGFR, 24-h creatinine clearance, eGFR slope, serum albumin, and the use of angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockade. The CR2* levels had the highest areas under the curve during follow-up compared with the MR2* levels and medullary cortical ratios. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that patients with CKD in the lowest tertile of the CR2* levels had the best prognosis compared with the other 2 tertiles. Moreover, baseline eGFR and CR2* tertiles were associated with the progression of CKD in Cox proportional hazard regression models. Only CR2* tertiles correlated negatively with the eGFR slope. Conclusion: We have demonstrated that the clinical feasibility of BOLD-MRI to evaluate renal oxygenation and cortex hypoxia aggravates with the decline of renal function, and cortex hypoxia was a prognostic marker in the progression of CKD.
Economic and Emission Dispatch using Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA)
Authors: C. K. Faseela , Vennila H.
Published: July 2018

This paper work present one of the latest meta heuristic optimization approaches named whale optimization algorithm as a new algorithm developed to solve the economic dispatch problem. The execution of the utilized algorithm is analyzed using standard test system of IEEE 30 bus system. The proposed algorithm delivered optimum or near optimum solutions. Fuel cost and emission costs are considered together to get better result for economic dispatch. The analysis shows good convergence property for WOA and provides better results in comparison with PSO. The achieved results in this study using the above-mentioned algorithm have been compared with obtained results using other intelligent methods such as particle swarm Optimization. The overall performance of this algorithm collates with early proven optimization methodology, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The minimum cost for the generation of units is obtained for the standard bus system.
Data Analysis for Solar Energy Generation in a University Microgrid
Authors: Lee Junghoon , Kim Seong Baeg , Park Gyung-Leen
Published: July 2018

This paper presents a data acquisition process for solar energy generation and then analyzes the dynamics of its data stream, mainly employing open software solutions such as Python, MySQL, and R. For the sequence of hourly power generations during the period from January 2016 to March 2017, a variety of queries are issued to obtain the number of valid reports as well as the average, maximum, and total amount of electricity generation in 7 solar panels. The query result on all-time, monthly, and daily basis has found that the panel-by panel difference is not so significant in a university-scale microgrid, the maximum gap being 7.1% even in the exceptional case. In addition, for the time series of daily energy generations, we develop a neural network-based trace and prediction model. Due to the time lagging effect in forecasting, the average prediction error for the next hours or days reaches 27.6%. The data stream is still being accumulated and the accuracy will be enhanced by more intensive machine learning.
Optimal Placement of FACTS Controllers for Congestion Management in the Deregulated Power System
Authors: Reddy S. Surender
Published: July 2018

This paper proposes a methodology to determine the optimal location of Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) controllers for Congestion Management (CM) in the restructured electrical power system. An approach to find the optimum placement of Thyristor Controlled Phase Angle Regulators (TCPAR) and Thyristor Controlled Series Compensators (TCSC) has been proposed in this paper. The proposed methodology is based on the sensitivity of transmission loss which a controller is installed. The total system losses and the power flows are considered as the performance indices. The traditional optimal power flow (OPF) problem is modified to include the market players, who will compete and trade simultaneously, ensuring the system operation stays within the security limits. In this paper, pool and bilateral contracts are considered. Here, an integrated methodology is proposed that includes the FACTS Controllers in a bilateral contract framework to maintain the system security and to minimize the deviations from the contractual requirements. The simulation results on IEEE 30 bus system show that the sensitivity factors could be used effectively for the optimal location of FACTS controllers in response to the required objectives.
Unbalanced Voltages Impacts on the Energy Performance of Induction Motors
Authors: Quispe Enrique C. , López Iván D. , Ferreira Fernando J. T. E. , Sousa Vladimir
Published: July 2018

This paper presents the results of a study about the effects of unbalanced voltages on the energy performance of three-phase induction motors. The principal contribution of this paper is that presents a detailed analysis of the influence of positive and negative sequence voltage components and the angle between them on several characteristics such as: line currents, losses, efficiency and power factor under different voltage unbalanced conditions. A three-phase induction motor of 3 HP was used as a case study. The results of the investigation show that the positive sequence voltage must be considered together with the voltage unbalance factor (VUF) or percent voltage unbalance (PVU) index to evaluate the performance of the induction motor. It is also shown that the behavior of the motor load influences on the positive sequence parameters next to the voltage, while in the case of negative sequence only influences the negative sequence voltage.
1.5-V CMOS Current Multiplier/Divider
Authors: Satansup Jetsdaporn , Tangsrirat Worapong
Published: July 2018

A circuit technique for designing a compact low-voltage current-mode multiplier/divider circuit in CMOS technology is presented.  It is based on the use of a compact current quadratic cell able to operate at low supply voltage.  The proposed circuit is designed and simulated for implementing in TSMC 0.25-m CMOS technology with a single supply voltage of 1.5 V.  Simulation results using PSPICE, accurately agreement with theoretical ones, have been provided, and also demonstrate a maximum linearity error of 1.5%, a THD less than 2% at 100 MHz, a total power consumption of 508 W, and -3dB small-signal frequency of about 245 MHz.
Phase-Shifted Full-Bridge Zero Voltage Switching DC-DC Converter Design with MATLAB/Simulink Implementation
Authors: Ibrahim Oladimeji , Yahaya Nor Zaihar , Saad Nordin
Published: July 2018

Design of phase-shifted full bridge zero voltage switching DC-DC converter has been very challenging due to circuit parasitic effect on the system dynamics. This paper presents steady-state analysis and iterative approach for the systemic design of phase-shifted full bridge DC-DC converter with improved dynamic performance and satisfactory operational requirement in terms of zero-voltage switching range, operating switching frequency and switching resonance. A 3 kW DC-DC converter is designed using the iterative design approach and the system dynamics performance was investigated in the MATLAB/Simulink environment. The converter zero-voltage switching simulation results were satisfactory with 90% efficiency under full load condition.
Autonomous Traffic Signal Control using Decision Tree
Authors: R N Rithesh , R. Vignesh , M. R. Anala
Published: July 2018

The objective of this paper is to introduce an effective and efficient way of traffic signal light control to optimize the traffic signal duration across each lanes and thereby, to minimize or completely eliminate traffic congestion. This paper introduces a new approach to resolve the traffic congestion problem at junctions by making use of decision trees. The vehicle count in the real time traffic video is determined by Image Processing technique. This information is fed to the decision tree based on which the decision is made regarding the status of traffic signal lights of each lane at the junction at any given instant of time.