bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex Dynamics of a Novel Chaotic System Based on an Active Memristor
Authors: Song Qinghai , Chang Hui , Li Yuxia
Published: March 2020

On the basis of the bistable bi-local active memristor (BBAM), an active memristor (AM) and its emulator were designed, and the characteristic fingerprints of the memristor were found under the applied periodic voltage. A memristor-based chaotic circuit was constructed, whose corresponding dynamics system was described by the 4-D autonomous differential equations. Complex dynamics behaviors, including chaos, transient chaos, heterogeneous coexisting attractors, and state-switches of the system were analyzed and explored by using Lyapunov exponents, bifurcation diagrams, phase diagrams, and Poincaré mapping, among others. In particular, a novel exotic chaotic attractor of the system was observed, as well as the singular state-switching between point attractors and chaotic attractors. The results of the theoretical analysis were verified by both circuit experiments and digital signal processing (DSP) technology.
A DDoS Attack Mitigation Scheme in ISP Networks Using Machine Learning Based on SDN
Authors: Tuan Nguyen Ngoc , Hung Pham Huy , Nghia Nguyen Danh , Tho Nguyen Van , Phan Trung Van , Thanh Nguyen Huu
Published: March 2020

Keeping Internet users protected from cyberattacks and other threats is one of the most prominent security challenges for network operators nowadays. Among other critical threats, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) becomes one of the most widespread attacks in the Internet, which is very challenging to mitigate appropriately as DDoS attacks cause the system to stop working by resource exhaustion. Software-defined networking (SDN) has recently emerged as a new networking technology offering unprecedented programmability that allows network operators to configure and manage their infrastructures dynamically. The flexible processing and centralized management of the SDN controller allow flexibly deploying complex security algorithms and mitigation methods. In this paper, we propose a novel DDoS attack mitigation in SDN-based Internet Service Provider (ISP) networks for TCP-SYN and ICMP flood attacks utilizing machine learning approach, i.e., K-Nearest-Neighbor (KNN) and XGBoost. By deploying a testbed, we implement the proposed algorithms, evaluate their accuracy, and address the trade-off between the accuracy and mitigation efficiency. Through extensive experiments, the results show that the algorithms can efficiently mitigate the attack by over 98.0% while benign traffic is not affected.
Analysis of the Influencing Factors of Regional Carbon Emissions in the Chinese Transportation Industry
Authors: Zhu Changzheng , Wang Meng , Yang Yarong
Published: March 2020

Global warming caused by excessive emissions of CO2 and other greenhouse gases is one of the greatest challenges for mankind in the 21st century. China is the world’s largest carbon emitter and its transportation industry is one of the fastest growing sectors for carbon emissions. However, China is a vast country with different levels of carbon emissions in the transportation industry. Therefore, it is helpful for the Chinese government to formulate a reasonable policy of regional carbon emissions control by studying the factors influencing the carbon emissions of the Chinese transportation industry at the regional level. Based on data from 1997 to 2017, this paper adopts the logarithmic mean divisia index (LMDI) decomposition method to analyze the influencing degree of several major factors on the carbon emissions of transportation industry in different regions, puts forward some suggestions according to local conditions, and provides references for the carbon reduction of Chinese transportation industry. The results show that (1) in 2017, the total carbon emissions of the Chinese transportation industry were 714.58 million tons, being 5.59 times of those in 1997, with an average annual growth rate of 9.89%. Among them, the carbon emissions on the Eastern Coast were rising linearly and higher than those in other regions. The carbon emissions in the Great Northwest were always lower than those in other regions, with only 38.75 million tons in 2017. (2) Economic output effect is the most important factor to promote the carbon emissions of transportation industry in various regions. Among them, the contribution values of economic output effect to carbon emissions on the Eastern Coast, the Southern Coast and the Great Northwest continued to rise, while the contribution values of economic output effect to carbon emissions in the other five regions decreased in the fourth stage. (3) The population size effect promoted the carbon emissions of the transportation industry in various regions, but the population size effect of the Northeast had a significant inhibitory influence on the carbon emissions in the fourth stage. (4) The regional energy intensity effect in most stages inhibited carbon emissions of the transportation industry. Among them, the energy intensity effects of the North Coast and the Southern Coast in the two stages had obvious inhibitory influences on carbon emissions of the transportation industry, but the contribution values of the energy intensity effect in the Great Northwest and the Northeast were positive in the fourth stage. (5) Except for the Great Southwest, the industry-scale effects of other regions had inhibited the carbon emissions of transportation industry in all regions. (6) The influences of the carbon emissions coefficient effect on carbon emissions in different regions were not significant and their inhibitory effects were relatively small.
A Molecular Tool for Rapid Detection and Traceability of Cyclospora cayetanensis in Fresh Berries and Berry Farm Soils
Authors: Resendiz-Nava Carolina N. , Orozco-Mosqueda Guadalupe E. , Mercado-Silva Edmundo M. , Flores-Robles Susana , Silva-Rojas Hilda V. , Nava Gerardo M.
Published: March 2020

Due to recent outbreaks of cyclosporiasis associated with consumption of fresh berries, producers are demanding modern microbiological tools for the rapid and accurate identification of the human pathogen Cyclospora cayetanensis in berries and environmental samples. The aim of the present work was to develop a molecular tool based on a PCR approach for the rapid and accurate detection of C. cayetanensis. A nested PCR assay was validated for the amplification of a 294 bp size region of the 18S rRNA gene from C. cayetanensis. The limit of detection for the nested PCR assay was validated using 48 berry samples spiked with ~0, 10, 100, and 1000 oocyst per gram of sample. With this assay, it was possible to detect as few as 1 oocyst per gram of berry, in a 50 g sample. Sanger DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were carried out to confirm the presence of C. cayetanensis in berry (n = 17) and soil (n = 5) samples. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the C. cayetanensis sequences obtained from Mexico clustered within a group recovered from China, Peru, Guatemala-Haiti, and Japan. The PCR protocol designed in the present study could be an important tool for the rapid and accurate detection of this human pathogen in environmental and food samples.
Impact of Extending Hard-Cheese Ripening: A Multiparameter Characterization of Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Ripened up to 50 Months
Authors: D’Incecco Paolo , Limbo Sara , Hogenboom John , Rosi Veronica , Gobbi Serena , Pellegrino Luisa
Published: March 2020

Extending ripening of hard cheeses well beyond the traditional ripening period is becoming increasingly popular, although little is known about the actual evolution of their characteristics. The present work aimed at investigating selected traits of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese ripened for 12, 18, 24, 30, 40 and 50 months. Two cheeses per each ripening period were sampled. Although moisture constantly decreased and was close to 25% in 50-month cheeses, with a parallel increase in cheese hardness, several biochemical changes occurred involving the activity of both native and microbial enzymes. Capillary electrophoresis demonstrated degradation of αs1- and β-casein, indicating residual activity of both chymosin and plasmin. Similarly, continuous release of free amino acids supported the activity of peptidases deriving from lysed bacterial cells. Volatile flavor compounds, such as short-chain fatty acids and some derived ketones, alcohols and esters, evaluated by gas chromatography with solid-phase micro-extraction, accumulated as well. Cheese microstructure was characterized by free fat trapped in irregularly shaped areas within a protein network, with native fat globules being no longer visible. This study showed for the first time that numerous biochemical and structural variations still occur in a hard cheese at up to 50 months of aging, proving that the ripening extension deserves to be highlighted to the consumer and may justify a premium price.
Characterization of a Homozygous Deletion of Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis Genes in Horse Chromosome 29 as a Risk Factor for Disorders of Sex Development and Reproduction
Authors: Ghosh Sharmila , Davis Brian W. , Rosengren Maria , Jevit Matthew J. , Castaneda Caitlin , Arnold Carolyn , Jaxheimer Jay , Love Charles C. , Varner Dickson D. , Lindgren Gabriella , Wade Claire M. , Raudsepp Terje
Published: March 2020

Disorders of sex development (DSD) and reproduction are not uncommon among horses, though knowledge about their molecular causes is sparse. Here we characterized a ~200 kb homozygous deletion in chromosome 29 at 29.7–29.9 Mb. The region contains AKR1C genes which function as ketosteroid reductases in steroid hormone biosynthesis, including androgens and estrogens. Mutations in AKR1C genes are associated with human DSDs. Deletion boundaries, sequence properties and gene content were studied by PCR and whole genome sequencing of select deletion homozygotes and control animals. Deletion analysis by PCR in 940 horses, including 622 with DSDs and reproductive problems and 318 phenotypically normal controls, detected 67 deletion homozygotes of which 79% were developmentally or reproductively abnormal. Altogether, 8–9% of all abnormal horses were homozygous for the deletion, with the highest incidence (9.4%) among cryptorchids. The deletion was found in ~4% of our phenotypically normal cohort, ~1% of global warmblood horses and ponies, and ~7% of draught breeds of general horse population as retrieved from published data. Based on the abnormal phenotype of the carriers, the functionally relevant gene content, and the low incidence in general population, we consider the deletion in chromosome 29 as a risk factor for equine DSDs and reproductive disorders.
Shared Molecular Genetic Mechanisms Underlie Endometriosis and Migraine Comorbidity
Authors: Adewuyi Emmanuel O. , Sapkota Yadav ,   International Endogene Consortium (IEC),   23andMe Research Team,   International Headache Genetics Consortium (IHGC), Auta Asa , Yoshihara Kosuke , Nyegaard Mette , Griffiths Lyn R. , Montgomery Grant W. , Chasman Daniel I. , Nyholt Dale R.
Published: March 2020

Observational epidemiological studies indicate that endometriosis and migraine co-occur within individuals more than expected by chance. However, the aetiology and biological mechanisms underlying their comorbidity remain unknown. Here we examined the relationship between endometriosis and migraine using genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) effect concordance analysis found a significant concordance of SNP risk effects across endometriosis and migraine GWAS. Linkage disequilibrium score regression analysis found a positive and highly significant genetic correlation (rG = 0.38, P = 2.30 × 10−25) between endometriosis and migraine. A meta-analysis of endometriosis and migraine GWAS data did not reveal novel genome-wide significant SNPs, and Mendelian randomisation analysis found no evidence for a causal relationship between the two traits. However, gene-based analyses identified two novel loci for migraine. Also, we found significant enrichment of genes nominally associated (Pgene < 0.05) with both traits (Pbinomial-test = 9.83 × 10−6). Combining gene-based p-values across endometriosis and migraine, three genes, two (TRIM32 and SLC35G6) of which are at novel loci, were genome-wide significant. Genes having Pgene < 0.1 for both endometriosis and migraine (Pbinomial-test = 1.85 ×10−°3) were significantly enriched for biological pathways, including interleukin-1 receptor binding, focal adhesion-PI3K-Akt-mTOR-signaling, MAPK and TNF-α signalling. Our findings further confirm the comorbidity of endometriosis and migraine and indicate a non-causal relationship between the two traits, with shared genetically-controlled biological mechanisms underlying the co-occurrence of the two disorders.
Mobile Dental Delivery System: An Effective Protocol for Hygiene and Disinfection
Authors: Offner Damien , Fernandez De Grado Gabriel , Strub Marion , Belotti Laure , Deboscker Stéphanie , Musset Anne-Marie
Published: March 2020

Mobile dental delivery systems (MDDSs) are receiving growing interest for reaching isolated patients, as well as in dental care for fragile and hospitalized patients, with the advantage of being able to be used from room to room or during general anesthesia (GA) in an operating room. Therefore, ensuring the care safety is crucial. The aim of this study was to elaborate and assess an MDDS maintenance protocol, containing the management of dental unit waterlines and adapted to specific conditions such as dental care under GA. A step-by-step protocol was established and implemented for an MDDS used during dental care under GA in children. Samples of the output water were collected at J0, J+1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, and cultured to observe the microbiological quality of the water. All the results (heterotrophic plate count at 22 °C, at 37 °C, and specific pathogenic germs sought) showed an absence of contamination. The protocol presented was effective over time and allowed ensuring the safety of care to be ensured when using MDDS, even during dental procedures under GA. As a result, it could be implemented by any dental care delivery structure wanting to reinforce the safety of its practice.
The Development of a Defect Detection Model from the High-Resolution Images of a Sugarcane Plantation Using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Tanut Bhoomin , Riyamongkol Panomkhawn
Published: March 2020

This article presents a defect detection model of sugarcane plantation images. The objective is to assess the defect areas occurring in the sugarcane plantation before the harvesting seasons. The defect areas in the sugarcane are usually caused by storms and weeds. This defect detection algorithm uses high-resolution sugarcane plantations and image processing techniques. The algorithm for defect detection consists of four processes: (1) data collection, (2) image preprocessing, (3) defect detection model creation, and (4) application program creation. For feature extraction, the researchers used image segmentation and convolution filtering by 13 masks together with mean and standard deviation. The feature extraction methods generated 26 features. The K-nearest neighbors algorithm was selected to develop a model for the classification of the sugarcane areas. The color selection method was also chosen to detect defect areas. The results show that the model can recognize and classify the characteristics of the objects in sugarcane plantation images with an accuracy of 96.75%. After the comparison with the expert surveyor’s assessment, the accurate relevance obtained was 92.95%. Therefore, the proposed model can be used as a tool to calculate the percentage of defect areas and solve the problem of evaluating errors of yields in the future.
Finite State Machine Modelling to Facilitate the Resilience of Infrastructures: Reflections
Authors: Engler Evelin , Baldauf Michael , Sill Torres Frank , Brusch Stephan
Published: March 2020

The ability of an infrastructure to be resistant against hazards or to accommodate and recover from hazard-induced destructions and disturbances is characterized as resilience. Usually, infrastructures are engineered socio-technical systems or systems-of-systems. Jackson and Ferris consider the use of finite state machine (FSM) modelling as a suitable means to depict and investigate the resilience of such engineered systems. This paper discusses the capabilities and limitations of the FSM model proposed by Jackson and Ferris and if it should be used for the representation and evaluation of the resilience of an infrastructure. The discussion is conducted on a more general level. However, special attention is paid to monitoring because, on the one hand, monitoring is one of the cornerstones of resilience and, on the other hand, Scott and Ferris define a state that is emphasized by an increased level of situational awareness as a result of happened and perceived events. Consequently, the question has to be answered of how the models are able to reflect the need for routine monitoring of the resilience of infrastructures in order to initiate, if necessary, adjustment procedures as an appropriate response to changes in internal and external conditions. The results of this theoretical study are a fundamental step towards the practical application of the FSM approach for the design of resilient infrastructures.
A Novel Digestive Proteinase Lipase Member H-A in Bombyx mori Contributes to Digestive Juice Antiviral Activity against B. mori Nucleopolyhedrovirus
Authors: Zhang Shang-Zhi , Zhu Lin-Bao , You Ling-Ling , Wang Jie , Cao Hui-Hua , Liu Ying-Xue , Toufeeq Shahzad , Wang Yu-Ling , Kong Xue , Xu Jia-Ping
Published: March 2020

Previous studies have revealed that some proteins in Bombyx mori larvae digestive juice show antiviral activity. Here, based on the label-free proteomics data, BmLipase member H-A (BmLHA) was identified as being involved in the response to BmNPV infection in B. mori larvae digestive juice. In the present study, a gene encoding the BmLHA protein in B. mori was characterized. The protein has an open reading fragment of 999 bp, encoding a predicted 332 amino acid residue-protein with a molecular weight of approximately 35.9 kDa. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that BmLHA shares a close genetic distance with Papilio xuthus Lipase member H-A. BmLHA was highly expressed in the middle part of the B. mori gut, and the expression level increased with instar rising in larvae. There was higher expression of BmLHA in A35 than in P50 strains, and it was upregulated in both A35 and P50 strains, following BmNPV infection. The expression level of VP39 decreased significantly in appropriate recombinant-BmLHA-treated groups compared with the PBS-treated group in B. mori larvae and BmN cells. Meanwhile, overexpression of BmLHA significantly reduced the infectivity of BmNPV in BmN cells. These results indicated that BmLHA did not have digestive function but had anti-BmNPV activity. Taken together, our work provides valuable data for the clarification of the molecular characterization BmLHA and supplements research on proteins of anti-BmNPV activity in B. mori.
The Effects of Weather on the Flight of an Invasive Bark Beetle, Pityophthorus juglandis
Authors: Chen Yigen , Aukema Brian , Seybold Steven
Published: March 2020

The walnut twig beetle, Pityophthorus juglandis Blackman (Coleoptera: Scolytidae), vectors the fungus Geosmithia morbida, which has been implicated in thousand cankers disease of walnut. Little is known about the flight behavior of the insect across seasons, or about the variability in its flight patterns with weekly fluctuations in weather. We sampled flying adults weekly over a 142-week period (from 29 August, 2011 to 2 June, 2014) with 12-unit black plastic multiple funnel traps baited with a male-produced aggregation pheromone in California, USA. Up to 5000 beetles were captured per trap per week, although catches in most weeks were less than 100 insects. Trap catches were regressed against terms for precipitation, solar radiation, vapor pressure, air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and trap catches in preceding weeks. The number of beetles captured in each of the preceding two weeks explained most variation in a current week’s catch. This strong temporal autocorrelation was present in regression models developed for males, females, and both sexes pooled. These models were improved by including two environmental variables. Captures of P. juglandis increased with mean weekly air temperature and decreased with increasing mean minimum relative humidity. The percentage of variation in male, female, or total trap catch explained by the temporal variables and the two environmental variables in these multiple regression models ranged from 72% to 76%. While the flight of this invasive insect will likely be affected by site-specific factors as it spreads to new areas, the strong temporal correlation present in this system may provide a useful starting point for developing flight models for newly invaded areas.
Physical, Psychological, and Social Factors Associated with Exacerbation-Related Hospitalization in Patients with COPD
Authors: Crutsen Mieke R.C. , Keene Spencer J. , Nakken Daisy J.A. Janssen Nienke , Groenen Miriam T. , van Kuijk Sander M.J. , Franssen Frits M.E. , Wouters Emiel F.M. , Spruit Martijn A.
Published: March 2020

Background and objective: Exacerbation(s) of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (eCOPD) entail important events describing an acute deterioration of respiratory symptoms. Changes in medication and/or hospitalization are needed to gain control over the event. However, an exacerbation leading to hospitalization is associated with a worse prognosis for the patient. The objective of this study is to explore factors that could predict the probability of an eCOPD-related hospitalization. Methods: Data from 128 patients with COPD included in a prospective, longitudinal study were used. At baseline, physical, emotional, and social status of the patients were assessed. Moreover, hospital admission during a one year follow-up was captured. Different models were made based on univariate analysis, literature, and practice. These models were combined to come to one final overall prediction model. Results: During follow-up, 31 (24.2%) participants were admitted for eCOPD. The overall model contained six significant variables: currently smoking (OR = 3.93), forced vital capacity (FVC; OR = 0.97), timed-up-and-go time (TUG-time) (OR = 14.16), knowledge (COPD knowledge questionnaire, percentage correctly answered questions (CIROPD%correct)) (<60% (OR = 1.00); 60%–75%: (OR = 0.30); >75%: (OR = 1.94), eCOPD history (OR = 9.98), and care dependency scale (CDS) total score (OR = 1.12). This model was well calibrated (goodness-of-fit test: p = 0.91) and correctly classified 79.7% of the patients. Conclusion: A combination of TUG-time, eCOPD-related admission(s) prior to baseline, currently smoking, FVC, CDS total score, and CIROPD%correct allows clinicians to predict the probability of an eCOPD-related hospitalization.
Impact of New Chemotherapy Regimens on the Treatment Landscape and Survival of Locally Advanced and Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Authors: Kieler Markus , Unseld Matthias , Bianconi Daniela , Schindl Martin , Kornek Gabriela V. , Scheithauer Werner , Prager Gerald W.
Published: March 2020

Background: New chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer have changed the therapy paradigm. We aimed to assess their impact on the treatment landscape and clinical outcome at our academic institution. Methods: In this single institutional posthoc registry analysis, we assessed characteristics and survival rates from all patients with locally advanced and metastatic pancreatic cancer who started a systemic treatment between 01/2011 and 12/2017. Survival analyses were performed by Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards model. Results: A total of 301 patients started a systemic treatment in the observation period. In the first line treatment, we observed a shift from the four different main regimens (gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel, modified FOLFIRINOX, gemcitabine/oxaliplatin +/− erlotinib or gemcitabine alone) to gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel and modified FOLFIRINOX that add up to more than 80% of administered first line treatments in each of the time cohorts (2011–2013 vs. 2014–2017). The rate for first line modified FOLFIRINOX treatment was balanced between the two groups (19% and 15%). Median overall survival differed significantly between the two time cohorts (8.89 versus 11.9 months, p = 0.035). Survival rates for different first to second line treatment sequences (modified FOLFIRINOX to gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel, gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel to fluoropyrimidines plus nanoliposomal irinotecan, or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel to fluoropyrimidines plus oxaliplatin) were not significantly different and median overall survival ranged from 14.27 to 15.64 months. Conclusion: Our study provides real-world evidence for the effectiveness of the new chemotherapy regimens and underscores the importance of the choice of the front-line regimen when considering different sequencing strategies.
Effect of Intraoperative Sedation with Dexmedetomidine Versus Propofol on Acute Postoperative Pain Following Major Foot Surgery under Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Block: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kang RyungA , Choi Ji Won , Sung Ki-Sun , Wi Wongook , Hahm Tae Soo , Cho Hyun Sung , Yang Mi Kyung , Ko Justin Sangwook
Published: March 2020

Intravenous (IV) dexmedetomidine is reported to prolong analgesia following peripheral nerve blocks. Popliteal sciatic nerve block provides effective postoperative analgesia, but some patients still experience severe pain during the early postoperative period. We aimed to evaluate the postoperative analgesic effects of IV dexmedetomidine versus propofol in patients undergoing foot surgeries under popliteal sciatic nerve block. Forty patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either IV propofol (n = 20) or IV dexmedetomidine (n = 20) for intraoperative sedation. All the patients received continuous popliteal sciatic nerve block. The corresponding drug infusion rate was adjusted to achieve a modified observer’s assessment of alertness/sedation score of 3 or 4. The primary outcome was postoperative cumulative opioid consumption during the first 24 h after surgery. Thirty-nine patients were analyzed. The median (interquartile ranges) postoperative cumulative opioid consumption during the first 24 h after surgery was significantly lower in the dexmedetomidine group (15 (7.5–16.9) mg) than in the propofol group (17.5 (15–25) mg) (p = 0.019). The time to first rescue analgesic request was significantly greater in the dexmedetomidine group than in the propofol group (11.8 ± 2.2 h vs. 10.0 ± 2.7 h, p = 0.030) without the prolonged motor blockade (p = 0.321). Intraoperative sedation with dexmedetomidine reduced postoperative opioid consumption and prolonged analgesic duration after a popliteal sciatic nerve block.
An Autoencoder and Machine Learning Model to Predict Suicidal Ideation with Brain Structural Imaging
Authors: Weng Jun-Cheng , Lin Tung-Yeh , Tsai Yuan-Hsiung , Cheok Man , Chang Yi-Peng , Chen Vincent
Published: March 2020

It is estimated that at least one million people die by suicide every year, showing the importance of suicide prevention and detection. In this study, an autoencoder and machine learning model was employed to predict people with suicidal ideation based on their structural brain imaging. The subjects in our generalized q-sampling imaging (GQI) dataset consisted of three groups: 41 depressive patients with suicidal ideation (SI), 54 depressive patients without suicidal thoughts (NS), and 58 healthy controls (HC). In the GQI dataset, indices of generalized fractional anisotropy (GFA), isotropic values of the orientation distribution function (ISO), and normalized quantitative anisotropy (NQA) were separately trained in different machine learning models. A convolutional neural network (CNN)-based autoencoder model, the supervised machine learning algorithm extreme gradient boosting (XGB), and logistic regression (LR) were used to discriminate SI subjects from NS and HC subjects. After five-fold cross validation, separate data were tested to obtain the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve of each result. Our results showed that the best pattern of structure across multiple brain locations can classify suicidal ideates from NS and HC with a prediction accuracy of 85%, a specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 75%. The algorithms developed here might provide an objective tool to help identify suicidal ideation risk among depressed patients alongside clinical assessment.
AxCEM: Designing Approximate Comparator-Enabled Multipliers
Authors: Ghabraei Samar , Rezaalipour Morteza , Dehyadegari Masoud , Nazm Bojnordi Mahdi
Published: March 2020

Floating-point multipliers have been the key component of nearly all forms of modern computing systems. Most data-intensive applications, such as deep neural networks (DNNs), expend the majority of their resources and energy budget for floating-point multiplication. The error-resilient nature of these applications often suggests employing approximate computing to improve the energy-efficiency, performance, and area of floating-point multipliers. Prior work has shown that employing hardware-oriented approximation for computing the mantissa product may result in significant system energy reduction at the cost of an acceptable computational error. This article examines the design of an approximate comparator used for preforming mantissa products in the floating-point multipliers. First, we illustrate the use of exact comparators for enhancing power, area, and delay of floating-point multipliers. Then, we explore the design space of approximate comparators for designing efficient approximate comparator-enabled multipliers (AxCEM). Our simulation results indicate that the proposed architecture can achieve a 66% reduction in power dissipation, another 66% reduction in die-area, and a 71% decrease in delay. As compared with the state-of-the-art approximate floating-point multipliers, the accuracy loss in DNN applications due to the proposed AxCEM is less than 0.06%.
Wear in Hot Stamping by Partition Heating
Authors: Mu Yanhong , Simonetto Enrico , Scagnolari Marco , Ghiotti Andrea
Published: March 2020

Hot stamping by partition heating of Al–Si coated boron steel sheets is currently utilized to produce parts of the car body-in-white with tailored microstructural and mechanical characteristics. This paper investigates the evolution of the Al–Si coating and its tribological and wear performances in the case of direct heating at the process temperatures of 700 °C, 800 °C, and 900 °C, skipping the preliminary austenitization as it may happen in the case of tailored tempered parts production. A specifically designed pin-on-disk configuration was used to reproduce at a laboratory scale the process thermo-mechanical cycle. The results show the morphological and chemical variation of the Al–Si coating with heating temperature, as well as that the friction coefficient, decreases with increased temperature. Furthermore, the results proved that the adhesive wear is the main mechanism at the lower temperature, while abrasive wear plays the major role at the higher temperature.
What Results Should Be Returned from Opportunistic Screening in Translational Research?
Authors: Halverson Colin M. E. , Jones Sarah H. , Novak Laurie , Simpson Christopher , Edwards Digna R. Velez , Zhao Sifang Kathy , Clayton Ellen W.
Published: March 2020

Increasingly, patients without clinical indications are undergoing genomic tests. The purpose of this study was to assess their appreciation and comprehension of their test results and their clinicians’ reactions. We conducted 675 surveys with participants from the Vanderbilt Electronic Medical Records and Genomics (eMERGE) cohort. We interviewed 36 participants: 19 had received positive results, and 17 were self-identified racial minorities. Eleven clinicians who had patients who had participated in eMERGE were interviewed. A further 21 of these clinicians completed surveys. Participants spontaneously admitted to understanding little or none of the information returned to them from the eMERGE study. However, they simultaneously said that they generally found testing to be “helpful,” even when it did not inform their health care. Primary care physicians expressed discomfort in being asked to interpret the results for their patients and described it as an undue burden. Providing genetic testing to otherwise healthy patients raises a number of ethical issues that warrant serious consideration. Although our participants were enthusiastic about enrolling and receiving their results, they express a limited understanding of what the results mean for their health care. This fact, coupled the clinicians’ concern, urges greater caution when educating and enrolling participants in clinically non-indicated testing.
The Effect of Addition of Nanoparticles, Especially ZrO2-Based, on Tribological Behavior of Lubricants
Authors: Rylski Adam , Siczek Krzysztof
Published: March 2020

The aim of the paper was to discuss different effects, such as, among others, agglomeration of selected nanoparticles, particularly those from zirconia, on the tribological behavior of lubricants. The explanation of the difference between the concepts of ‘aggregation’ and ‘agglomeration’ for ZrO2 nanoparticles is included. The factors that influence such an agglomeration are considered. Classification and thickeners of grease, the role of additives therein, and characteristics of the lithium grease with and without ZrO2 additive are discussed in the paper. The role of nanoparticles, including those from ZrO2 utilized as additives to lubricants, particularly to the lithium grease, is also discussed. The methods of preparation of ZrO2 nanoparticles are described in the paper. The agglomeration of ZrO2 nanoparticles and methods to prevent it and the lubrication mechanism of the lithium nanogrease and its tribological evaluation are also discussed. Sample preparation and a ball-on disc tester for investigating of spinning friction are described. The effect of ZrO2 nanoparticles agglomeration on the frictional properties of the lithium grease is shown. The addition of 1 wt.% ZrO2 nanoparticles to pure lithium grease can decrease the friction coefficient to 50%. On the other hand, the agglomeration of ZrO2 nanoparticles in the lithium grease can increase twice the friction coefficient relative to that for the pure grease.
Tribochemical Interaction of Multicomponent Aluminum Alloys During Sliding Friction with Steel
Authors: Podrabinnik Pavel , Gershman Iosif , Mironov Alexander , Kuznetsova Ekaterina , Peretyagin Pavel
Published: March 2020

In this work, aluminum multicomponent alloys were studied after friction with steel in a mixed lubrication regime. The resulting secondary structures on the friction surface were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive analysis (EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). In addition to the mass transfer of steel counterbody particles, phase transformations and new chemical compounds formed as a result of interaction with the lubricant were revealed. The release of elements, mainly magnesium and to a lesser extent zinc, from a solid solution of aluminum alloy was also observed, which indicates the occurrence of a non-spontaneous reaction with a negative entropy production.
Novel Face Index for Benzenoid Hydrocarbons
Authors: Jamil Muhammad Kamran , Imran Muhammad , Abdul Sattar Kanza
Published: March 2020

A novel topological index, the face index ( F I ), is proposed in this paper. For a molecular graph G, face index is defined as F I ( G ) = ∑ f ∈ F ( G ) d ( f ) = ∑ v ∼ f , f ∈ F ( G ) d ( v ) , where d ( v ) is the degree of the vertex v. The index is very easy to calculate and improved the previously discussed correlation models for π - e l e c t r o n energy and boiling point of benzenoid hydrocarbons. The study shows that the multiple linear regression involving the novel topological index can predict the π -electron energy and boiling points of the benzenoid hydrocarbons with correlation coefficient r > 0.99 . Moreover, the face indices of some planar molecular structures such as 2-dimensional graphene, triangular benzenoid, circumcoronene series of benzenoid are also investigated. The results suggest that the proposed index with good correlation ability and structural selectivity promised to be a useful parameter in QSPR/QSAR.
A Discontinuous ODE Model of the Glacial Cycles with Diffusive Heat Transport
Authors: Walsh James , Widiasih Esther
Published: March 2020

We present a new discontinuous ordinary differential equation (ODE) model of the glacial cycles. Model trajectories flip from a glacial to an interglacial state, and vice versa, via a switching mechanism motivated by ice sheet mass balance principles. Filippov’s theory of differential inclusions is used to analyze the system, which can be viewed as a nonsmooth geometric singular perturbation problem. We prove the existence of a unique limit cycle, corresponding to the Earth’s glacial cycles. The diffusive heat transport component of the model is ideally suited for investigating the competing temperature gradient and transport efficiency feedbacks, each associated with ice-albedo feedback. It is the interplay of these feedbacks that determines the maximal extent of the ice sheet. In the nonautonomous setting, model glacial cycles persist when subjected to external forcing brought on by changes in Earth’s orbital parameters over geologic time. The system also exhibits various bifurcation scenarios as key parameters vary.
Point Orthogonal Projection onto a Spatial Algebraic Curve
Authors: Cheng Taixia , Wu Zhinan , Li Xiaowu , Wang Chan
Published: March 2020

Point orthogonal projection onto a spatial algebraic curve plays an important role in computer graphics, computer-aided geometric design, etc. We propose an algorithm for point orthogonal projection onto a spatial algebraic curve based on Newton’s steepest gradient descent method and geometric correction method. The purpose of Algorithm 1 in the first step of Algorithm 4 is to let the initial iteration point fall on the spatial algebraic curve completely and successfully. On the basis of ensuring that the iteration point fallen on the spatial algebraic curve, the purpose of the intermediate for loop body including Step 2 and Step 3 is to let the iteration point gradually approach the orthogonal projection point (the closest point) such that the distance between them is very small. Algorithm 3 in the fourth step plays an important double acceleration and orthogonalization role. Numerical example shows that our algorithm is very robust and efficient which it achieves the expected and ideal result.
Free Vibration Analysis of Axially Functionally Graded (AFG) Cantilever Columns of a Regular Polygon Cross-Section with Constant Volume
Authors: Lee Joon Kyu , Lee Byoung Koo
Published: March 2020

This paper deals with the transverse free vibration of axially functionally graded (AFG) cantilever columns under the influence of axial compressive load. The columns possessing a regular polygon in their cross-section are tapered and their material properties vary along the axis of the column. An emphasis is placed on the columns with constant volume for admissible geometries and materials. The governing differential equation of the problem is derived and solved using the direct integral approach in conjunction with the determinant search technique. The obtained results are in good agreement with those in the available literature and computed by finite element analysis. Numerical examples for the natural frequency and mode shape of the columns are presented to investigate the effects of parameters related to geometrical nonuniformity and material inhomogeneity.
Improved Decentralized Fractional PD Control of Structure Vibrations
Authors: Xu Kang , Chen Liping , Wang Minwu , Lopes António M. , Tenreiro Machado J. A. , Zhai Houzhen
Published: March 2020

This paper presents a new strategy for the control of large displacements in structures under earthquake excitation. Firstly, an improved fractional order proportional-derivative (FOPD) controller is proposed. Secondly, a decentralized strategy is designed by adding a regulator and fault self-regulation to a standard decentralized controller. A new control architecture is obtained by combining the improved FOPD and the decentralized strategy. The parameters of the control system are tuned using an intelligent optimization algorithm. Simulation results demonstrate the performance and reliability of the proposed method.
Antibiotics Development and the Potentials of Marine-Derived Compounds to Stem the Tide of Multidrug-Resistant Pathogenic Bacteria, Fungi, and Protozoa
Authors: Nweze Justus Amuche , Mbaoji Florence N. , Huang Gang , Li Yanming , Yang Liyan , Zhang Yunkai , Huang Shushi , Pan Lixia , Yang Dengfeng
Published: March 2020

As the search for new antibiotics continues, the resistance to known antimicrobial compounds continues to increase. Many researchers around the world, in response to antibiotics resistance, have continued to search for new antimicrobial compounds in different ecological niches such as the marine environment. Marine habitats are one of the known and promising sources for bioactive compounds with antimicrobial potentials against currently drug-resistant strains of pathogenic microorganisms. For more than a decade, numerous antimicrobial compounds have been discovered from marine environments, with many more antimicrobials still being discovered every year. So far, only very few compounds are in preclinical and clinical trials. Research in marine natural products has resulted in the isolation and identification of numerous diverse and novel chemical compounds with potency against even drug-resistant pathogens. Some of these compounds, which mainly came from marine bacteria and fungi, have been classified into alkaloids, lactones, phenols, quinones, tannins, terpenes, glycosides, halogenated, polyketides, xanthones, macrocycles, peptides, and fatty acids. All these are geared towards discovering and isolating unique compounds with therapeutic potential, especially against multidrug-resistant pathogenic microorganisms. In this review, we tried to summarize published articles from 2015 to 2019 on antimicrobial compounds isolated from marine sources, including some of their chemical structures and tests performed against drug-resistant pathogens.
Application of Gelatin Decorated with Allura Red as Resonance Rayleigh Scattering Sensor to Detect Chito-Oligosaccharides
Authors: Zou Weiling , Sun Zijun , Su Zhengquan , Bai Yan
Published: March 2020

A convenient and sensitive triple-wavelength overlapping resonance Rayleigh scattering (TWO-RRS) method for the detection of chito-oligosaccharides (COS) was proposed based on enhancing the rigid surface of porous reticular spatial structure of gelatin and COS by introducing allura red AC (AR). The interaction and resultant porous reticular spatial structure were characterized with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), RRS, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The results indicated that gelatin and COS formed porous reticular spatial structure with an average diameter of 1.5–2.0 μm, and the RRS value of COS-AR-gelatin ternary system with gelatin participation was significantly higher than that of COS-AR binary system. Under the optimal conditions, the enhanced TWO-RRS intensity of the system was linearly proportional to COS concentration in the range of 0.30–2.50 μg/mL, and the regression equation was ΔI = 4933.2c − 446.21 with R2 = 0.9980. The limit of detection was 0.0478 μg/mL. So, a new method for the detection of COS was established and verified in the health products with satisfactory results.
Impact of ANCA-Associated Vasculitis on Outcomes of Hospitalizations for Goodpasture’s Syndrome in the United States: Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2003–2014
Authors: Thongprayoon Charat , Kaewput Wisit , Boonpheng Boonphiphop , Ungprasert Patompong , Bathini Tarun , Srivali Narat , Vallabhajosyula Saraschandra , Castaneda Jorge L. , Monga Divya , Kanduri Swetha R. , Medaura Juan , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: March 2020

Background and objectives: Goodpasture’s syndrome (GS) is a rare, life-threatening autoimmune disease. Although the coexistence of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) with Goodpasture’s syndrome has been recognized, the impacts of ANCA vasculitis on mortality and resource utilization among patients with GS are unclear. Materials and Methods: We used the National Inpatient Sample to identify hospitalized patients with a principal diagnosis of GS from 2003 to 2014 in the database. The predictor of interest was the presence of ANCA-associated vasculitis. We tested the differences concerning in-hospital treatment and outcomes between GS patients with and without ANCA-associated vasculitis using logistic regression analysis with adjustment for other clinical characteristics. Results: A total of 964 patients were primarily admitted to hospital for GS. Of these, 84 (8.7%) had a concurrent diagnosis of ANCA-associated vasculitis. Hemoptysis was more prevalent in GS patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis. During hospitalization, GS patients with ANCA-associated required non-significantly more mechanical ventilation and non-invasive ventilation support, but non-significantly less renal replacement therapy and plasmapheresis than those with GS alone. There was no significant difference in in-hospital outcomes, including organ failure and mortality, between GS patients with and without ANCA-associated vasculitis. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated no significant differences between resource utilization and in-hospital mortality among hospitalized patients with coexistence of ANCA vasculitis and GS, compared to those with GS alone.
Effects of Room Temperature Stretching and Annealing on the Crystallization Behavior and Performance of Polyvinylidene Fluoride Hollow Fiber Membranes
Authors: Tang Yuanhui , Lin Yakai , Lin Hanhan , Li Chunyu , Zhou Bo , Wang Xiaolin
Published: March 2020

A treatment consisting of room temperature stretching and subsequent annealing was utilized to regulate the morphology and performance of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) hollow fiber membranes. The effects of stretching ratios and stretching rates on the crystallization behavior, morphology, and performance of the PVDF membranes were investigated. The results showed that the treatment resulted in generation of the β crystalline phase PVDF and increased the crystallinity of the membrane materials. The treatment also brought about the orientation of the membrane pores along the stretching direction and led to an increase in the mean pore size of the membranes. In addition, as the stretching ratio increased, the tensile strength and permeation flux were improved while the elongation at break was depressed. However, compared to the stretching ratio, the stretching rate had less influence on the membrane structure and performance. In general, as the stretching ratio was 50% and the stretching rate was 20 mm/min, the tensile strength was increased by 36% to 7.47 MPa, and the pure water flux was as high as 776.28 L/(m2·h·0.1bar), while the mean pore size was not changed significantly. This research proved that the room temperature stretching and subsequent annealing was a simple but effective method for regulating the structure and the performance of the PVDF porous membranes.