bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Confusion2Vec: towards enriching vector space word representations with representational ambiguities
Authors: Gurunath Shivakumar Prashanth , Georgiou Panayiotis
Published: June 2019

Word vector representations are a crucial part of natural language processing (NLP) and human computer interaction. In this paper, we propose a novel word vector representation, Confusion2Vec, motivated from the human speech production and perception that encodes representational ambiguity. Humans employ both acoustic similarity cues and contextual cues to decode information and we focus on a model that incorporates both sources of information. The representational ambiguity of acoustics, which manifests itself in word confusions, is often resolved by both humans and machines through contextual cues. A range of representational ambiguities can emerge in various domains further to acoustic perception, such as morphological transformations, word segmentation, paraphrasing for NLP tasks like machine translation, etc. In this work, we present a case study in application to automatic speech recognition (ASR) task, where the word representational ambiguities/confusions are related to acoustic similarity. We present several techniques to train an acoustic perceptual similarity representation ambiguity. We term this Confusion2Vec and learn on unsupervised-generated data from ASR confusion networks or lattice-like structures. Appropriate evaluations for the Confusion2Vec are formulated for gauging acoustic similarity in addition to semantic–syntactic and word similarity evaluations. The Confusion2Vec is able to model word confusions efficiently, without compromising on the semantic-syntactic word relations, thus effectively enriching the word vector space with extra task relevant ambiguity information. We provide an intuitive exploration of the two-dimensional Confusion2Vec space using principal component analysis of the embedding and relate to semantic relationships, syntactic relationships, and acoustic relationships. We show through this that the new space preserves the semantic/syntactic relationships while robustly encoding acoustic similarities. The potential of the new vector representation and its ability in the utilization of uncertainty information associated with the lattice is demonstrated through small examples relating to the task of ASR error correction.
Variations in gut bacterial communities of hooded crane (Grus monacha) over spatial-temporal scales
Authors: Dong Yuanqiu , Xiang Xingjia , Zhao Guanghong , Song Yunwei , Zhou Lizhi
Published: June 2019

Background

Microbes have been recognized as important symbionts to regulate host life. The animal gut harbors abundance and diverse bacteria. Numerous internal and external factors influence intestinal bacterial communities, including diet, seasonal fluctuations and habitat sites. However, the factors that influence the gut bacterial communities of wild bird is poorly characterized.

Methods

By high-throughput sequencing and statistical analysis, we investigated the variations in gut bacterial communities of the hooded cranes at three wintering stages in Caizi (CZL) and Shengjin Lake (SJL), which are two shallow lakes in the middle and lower Yangtze River floodplain.

Results

Our results revealed significant differences in gut bacterial community structure and diversity among different sampling sites and wintering stages. Seasonal changes have a significant impact on the gut microbe composition of hooded cranes in the two lakes. ANOSIM analysis demonstrated that the samples in CZL had greater differences in the gut bacterial composition than that in SJL. Our data showed strong evidence that the host’s gut filtering might be an important factor in shaping bacterial community according to mean nearest taxon distance (MNTD). The PICRUSt analysis showed that the predicted metagenomes associated with the gut microbiome were carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism and energy metabolism over the entire wintering period at the two lakes.

Conclusions

The results demonstrated that both seasonal changes and habitat sites have significant impact on the gut bacterial communities of hooded cranes. In addition, predictive function of gut microbes in hooded cranes varied over time. These results provide new insights into the gut microbial community of the cranes, which serves as a foundation for future studies.
Association between VDR gene FokI polymorphism and renal function in patients with IgA nephropathy
Authors: Mo Man-Qiu , Pan Ling , Tan Lin , Jiang Ling , Pan Yong-Qing , Li Fu-Ji , Yang Zhen-Hua , Liao Yun-Hua
Published: June 2019

Background

Studies have shown that the occurrence and development of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) are genetically susceptible, but the relationship between vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms and renal function in IgAN patients is unclear.

Methods

We investigated the relationship between VDR FokI (rs2228570) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and renal function and related clinicopathologic parameters in IgAN patients. Clinical and pathological data of 282 IgAN patients treated at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University were collected, and FokI genotypes were determined by PCR and direct sequencing. Patients were divided into the renal dysfunction group and normal renal function (control) group by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and serum creatinine level.

Results

Frequencies of TT genotype and T allele in the renal dysfunction group were higher than those of the control group. Blood urea nitrogen, serum phosphorus (P), proportions of mesangial cell proliferation, interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy and crescents in T allele carriers were higher than those in non-T allele carriers, while eGFR and 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 were lower in T allele carriers than non-T allele carriers. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that eGFR was affected by FokI genotypes in IgAN patients. Logistics regression analysis showed that middle and elderly age, elevated P, intact parathyroid hormone and TT genotype were independent risk factors for renal dysfunction in IgAN patients; the odds ratio of carrying the TT genotype was as high as 84.77 (P < 0.05 for all).

Conclusions

IgA nephropathy patients carrying the VDR FokI TT genotype have an increased risk of renal dysfunction. VDR FokI SNP is closely related to renal function, calcium-phosphate metabolism, and related pathological damage in IgAN patients.
Expulsão do paraíso
Authors: Lisboa Armando De Melo
Published: June 2019

Este trabalho visa descortinar o período de germinação da reflexão econômica moderna, a qual no final do mesmo desabrocha, apresentando-se, primeiramente, como “Aritmética Política”, cálculo a serviço do Rei, um saber para o Estado. Aqui veremos o desenvolvimento da oposição entre o homem e a cidade, entre o interesse privado e o da polis, que já se manifestava no mundo grego. Neste contexto de rupturas que levam do tomismo/holismo antigo ao atomismo/individualismo moderno, o econômico se desincrusta do tecido social e assume sua face atual, impondo-se a conflituosa dinâmica em que o enriquecimento privado se emancipa e contrapõe-se ao interesse público. Assim, expulsa do Paraíso – não por nenhum anjo transcendente, mas pelos desdobramentos fortuitos da história humana – e presa à vida de escassez (conceito derivado da concepção econômico-teológica que professa a insaciabilidade infinita do desejo humano), a economia vai se apresentar como ciência desoladora. É buscando responder às crescentes tensões aqui geradas, e reconciliá-las, que Adam Smith erguerá sua “Riqueza das Nações”, centrada no metafórico e epifânico conceito da mão invisível. Entre os fatores que impulsionaram este processo, aqui se examinam três deles.Código JEL | D31; B50; P17.
Indústrias culturais e criativas em destinos turísticos: comparando quatro regiões da Europa
Authors: Cruz Ana Rita , Costa Pedro , Marques João Filipe
Published: June 2019

Partindo do debate sobre as interligações entre territórios criativos, cultura, turismo e políticas de promoção da criatividade, o artigo analisa as condições que favorecem o desenvolvimento de indústrias culturais e criativas, bem como a atração da classe criativa em destinos turísticos. A análise baseia-se em estudos de caso, procurando fornecer pistas para o desenvolvimento do Algarve (Portugal), comparando-o a outras regiões da Europa, destinos turísticos reconhecidos e que conseguiram criar sinergias entre as atividades culturais e criativas e o turismo. A análise comparativa inclui os casos de Málaga (Espanha), Graz (Áustria) e Cardiff (Reino Unido), dando ênfase ao ambiente criativo e às dimensões relacionadas com infraestruturas, governança, mercados e outros fatores intangíveis. O artigo conclui identificando implicações para as políticas públicas potenciarem a criatividade regional em destinos turísticos.Código JEL | L83; O15; R11.
Perspectivas de ecodesenvolvimento: o caso de Guaraqueçaba-PR
Authors: Muniz José Carlos , Denardin Valdir Frigo
Published: June 2019

A região de Guaraqueçaba, no litoral paranaense, reconhecida mundialmente pelos exuberantes atrativos naturais que a configuram como Reserva da Biosfera, Patrimônio Natural da Humanidade, e exibindo características do patrimônio cultural brasileiro, essa região, enfim, enfrenta, há décadas, sérias restrições em termos sociais, que a marcam com um dos menores Índices de Desenvolvimento Humano (IDH) do Estado do Paraná. Aproveitando-se deste cenário, frequentemente, são fortalecidas e enfatizadas discussões referentes ao desenvolvimento da região. O presente artigo procurou identificar, em Guaraqueçaba, no plano de governo da Gestão Municipal 2012-2016, propostas que contemplassem o desenvolvimento da região, com base nos pressupostos do ecodesenvolvimento. Os resultados indicam um conjunto de ações que contribuiriam para a redução das desigualdades sociais e a manutenção da cultura local, aliados à conservação dos recursos naturais do território, ações que podem ser financiadas com recursos oriundos do ICMS Ecológico.Código JEL | O15; Q56; R59.
Nutritional and Anti–Nutritional Evaluation of Garri Processed by Traditional and Instant Mechanical Methods
Authors: Airaodion Augustine I. , Airaodion Edith O. , Ewa Ogbonnaya , Ogbuagu Emmanuel O. , Ogbuagu Uloaku
Published: June 2019

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the nutritional and anti-nutritional composition of garri processed by traditional and instant mechanical methods.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in Achara, Uturu and analyses were done at the Biochemistry and Central Laboratories of Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State between March and July, 2017.

Methods: Cassava was harvested and processed in Achara area of Uturu, Abia State. For garri processed by instant mechanical method, cassava was grated and dewatered using hydraulic press and were roasted (fried) within 24 hours of harvest. For garri processed by traditional method, the grated garri was allowed to stay for 24 hours in the sack before dewatering using sticks. The dewatering process took 3 days before roasting. The nutritional and anti-nutritional composition of raw cassava mash, garri processed by traditional and instant mechanical methods were evaluated using standard methods.

Results: The result of the analysis showed that garri processed by traditional method was higher in most of the nutritional factors but lower in all of the anti-nutritional factors investigated when compared with those of garri processed by instant mechanical method and raw cassava mash. Garri processed by traditional method was significantly higher in vitamin A but lower in vitamin C when compared with garri processed by instant mechanical method at p<0.05. Garri with palm oil has its cyanogenic glucoside significantly reduced when compared with garri without palm oil at p<0.05.

Conclusion: Long period of fermentation (3 – 5 days) of cassava product is recommended as garri processed by traditional method was nutritionally better than that processed by instant mechanical method due to the longer period of fermentation.
The DNA repair domain of human rpS3 protects against photoaging by removing cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers
Authors: Yang Hee Woong , Kim Hag Dong , Kim Joon
Published: June 2019

Ribosomal protein S3 (rpS3) has endonuclease activity for DNA repair. In particular, rpS3 cleaves the phosphodiester bonds of damaged DNA. In this study, we show that the repair domain of rpS3 spans amino acids 144–189. We fused rpS3 with the transactivator of transcription (TAT) sequence to introduce the rpS3 repair domain into cells. We find that the TAT‐rpS3 (aa: 144–189) peptide cleaves UV‐induced cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) in cells. We also reveal that the TAT‐rpS3 peptide reduces matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (MMP‐1) induction in UV‐irradiated fibroblasts and increases cell migration activity. Taken together, our study suggests that penetration of the rpS3 repair domain into cells can cleave UV‐induced CPDs and reduce MMP‐1 expression induced by UV.
Motion capture data segmentation using Riemannian manifold learning
Authors: Bin Wang , Weibin Liu , Weiwei Xing
Published: June 2019

Due to the inherent nonlinear nature of data, traditional linear methods have some limitations in finding the intrinsic dimensions of motion capture (Mo‐cap) data. Mo‐cap data are more in line with the characteristics of the manifold. Assuming that the data are initially a low‐dimensional manifold and uniformly sampled in high‐dimensional Euclidean space, manifold learning recovers low‐dimensional manifold structures from high‐dimensional sampled data. This paper proposes an automatic segmentation method based on geodesics by introducing a Riemannian manifold. We convert Mo‐cap data from Euler angles into quaternions, calculate the intrinsic mean of the motion sequence, hemispherize quaternions, and use logarithmic and exponential mapping to calculate geodesic distances instead of quaternions. The experimental results show that the algorithms can achieve automatic segmentation and have a better segmentation effect.
Nonstationary spatiotemporal Bayesian data fusion for pollutants in the near‐road environment
Authors: Gilani O. , Berrocal V. J. , Batterman S. A.
Published: June 2019

Concentrations of near‐road air pollutants (NRAPs) have increased to very high levels in many urban centers around the world, particularly in developing countries. The adverse health effects of exposure to NRAPs are greater when the exposure occurs in the near‐road environment as compared to background levels of pollutant concentration. Therefore, there is increasing interest in monitoring pollutant concentrations in the near‐road environment. However, due to various practical limitations, monitoring pollutant concentrations near roadways and traffic sources is generally rather difficult and expensive. As an alternative, various deterministic computer models that provide predictions of pollutant concentrations in the near‐road environment, such as the research line‐source dispersion model (RLINE), have been developed. A common feature of these models is that their outputs typically display systematic biases and need to be calibrated in space and time using observed pollutant data. In this paper, we present a nonstationary Bayesian data fusion model that uses a novel data set on monitored pollutant concentrations (nitrogen oxides or NOx and fine particulate matter or PM2.5) in the near‐road environment and, combining it with the RLINE model output, provides predictions at unsampled locations. The model can also be used to evaluate whether including the RLINE model output leads to improved pollutant concentration predictions and whether the RLINE model output captures the spatial dependence structure of NRAP concentrations in the near‐road environment. A defining characteristic of the proposed model is that we model the nonstationarity in the pollutant concentrations by using a recently developed approach that includes covariates, postulated to be the driving force behind the nonstationary behavior, in the covariance function.
A suburban sediment budget: Coarse‐grained sediment flux through hillslopes, stormwater systems and streams
Authors: Russell Kathryn L. , Vietz Geoff J. , Fletcher Tim D.
Published: June 2019

Sediment in urban stormwater systems creates a significant maintenance burden, while a lack of coarse‐grained bed sediment in streams limits their ecological value and geomorphic resilience. Gravel substrates, for example, provide benthic habitat yet are often scoured from the channel bed only to end up in a detention basin or treatment wetland. This dual problem of both ‘too much’ and ‘too little’ coarse‐grained sediment reflects a watershed sediment budget that is profoundly altered. We developed a conceptual urban coarse‐grained (>0.5 mm) sediment budget across three domains: hillslopes (urban land surfaces), the built stormwater network and stream channels. We then quantified key sources, sinks and storages for a suburban case study, using a combination of hillslope and in‐channel monitoring, and interrogation of local government records. Around 36% of the sediment supplied to the stormwater network reached the catchment outlet, a level of sediment delivery much higher than observed in similar‐sized natural catchments. The remainder was deposited in the sediment cascade and either stored, or extracted and removed from the catchment (e.g. material deposited in sediment ponds and gross pollutant traps). Conventional urban drainage networks are characterized by high hillslope sediment supply and low storage, resulting in efficient sediment delivery. Channel erosion, deposition in (and extraction from) pipes and channels, and floodplain deposition are small compared to sediment transport through the cascade. An understanding of the sediment budget of urban headwater catchments can provide stormwater and waterway managers with the information they need to address specific sediment problems such as sedimentation in stormwater assets and geomorphic recovery of urban streams. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of geochemistry and interphase transport of CO2on hybrid carbonated low salinity waterflood to improve oil recovery and CO2sequestration
Authors: Lee Ji Ho , Jeong Moon Sik , Lee Kun Sang
Published: June 2019

The hybrid process of carbonated low salinity waterflood (CLSWF) integrating low salinity waterflood (LSWF) and carbonated waterflood (CWF) is proposed as enhanced oil recovery (EOR) incorporating CO2storage. Based on the understanding of the mechanisms of LSWF and CWF, the hybrid technology is simulated with a fully‐coupled model of fluid flow, geochemical reactions, and equation of state, which describes chemical interactions in the oil/brine/rock system. The comprehensive simulations confirm the synergetic effects of the hybrid CLSWF when compared to waterflooding (WF) and LSWF. In addition, optimum designs of cost‐efficient CLSWF securing CO2storage are drawn via optimization and sensitivity studies. First, CLSWF enhances wettability modification effect, when compared to LSWF. In CLSWF, extensive mineral dissolution causes more cation exchange. Following the multicomponent ion exchange theory of the wettability modification mechanism, CLSWF produces more residual oil than LSWF with an increasing equivalent fraction of cation. Consequently, it enhances oil recovery by 6.9% and 2.5%, compared with WF and LSWF. Second, the interphase transport of CO2introduces the oil viscosity reduction effect, which improves the injectivity of CLSWF. Lastly, it sequestrates 25% of the injected CO2in the depleted reservoir via the solubility‐trapping mechanism. In optimization and sensitivity studies, the optimum design of CLSWF is determined to produce more oil recovery by 9.9% and more net present value by 35% over WF. In addition, 33% of the injected CO2becomes sequestrated in the reservoirs. This study clarifies that hybrid CLSWF improves EOR, injectivity, and CO2storage. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impaired structural connectivity between dorsal attention network and pulvinar mediates the impact of premature birth on adult visual–spatial abilities
Authors: Berndt Maria , Bäuml Josef G. , Menegaux Aurore , Meng Chun , Daamen Marcel , Baumann Nicole , Zimmer Claus , Boecker Henning , Bartmann Peter , Wolke Dieter , Sorg Christian
Published: June 2019

The dorsal attention network (DAN), including frontal eye fields and posterior parietal cortices, and its link with the posterior thalamus, contribute to visual–spatial abilities. Very premature birth impairs both visual–spatial abilities and cortico‐thalamic structural connectivity. We hypothesized that impaired structural DAN‐pulvinar connectivity mediates the effect of very premature birth on adult visual–spatial abilities. Seventy very premature (median age 26.6 years) and 57 mature born adults (median age 26.6 years) were assessed with cognitive tests and diffusion tensor imaging. Perceptual organization (PO) index of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale‐III was used as a proxy for visual–spatial abilities, and connection probability maps in the thalamus, derived from probabilistic tractography from the DAN, were used as a proxy for DAN‐thalamic connectivity. Premature born adults showed decreases in both PO‐index and connection probability from DAN into the pulvinar, with both changes being positively correlated. Moreover, path analysis revealed that DAN‐pulvinar connectivity mediates the relationship between very premature birth and PO‐index. Results provide evidence for long‐term effects of very premature birth on structural DAN‐pulvinar connectivity, mediating the effect of prematurity on adult visual–spatial impairments. Data suggest DAN‐pulvinar connectivity as a specific target of prognostic and diagnostic procedures for visual–spatial abilities after premature birth.
Transoral laser microsurgery for treatment of oropharyngeal cancer in 368 patients
Authors: Weiss Bernhard G. , Ihler Friedrich , Anczykowski Mahalia Zoe , Bertlich Mattis , Kitz Julia , Steiner Wolfgang , Canis Martin , Jakob Mark
Published: June 2019

Background

Oncological and functional outcome of transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) for primary treatment of oropharyngeal cancer was examined using a multimodal treatment concept.

Methods

A total of 368 patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (pT1‐4, pN0‐2, M0) underwent TLM +/− neck dissection (85%), +/− (chemo)radiotherapy (57%). The majority of patients had advanced stage III and IVa disease (79%).

Results

Five‐year Kaplan‐Meier estimates for local control were 83.5% for pT1, 74.1% for pT2, 77.3% for pT3, and 76.0% for pT4a tumors. Five‐year estimates of overall, disease‐specific, and recurrence‐free survival for stage I were 76.0%, 92.8%, and 69.1%; for stage II 71.1%, 85.7%, and 49.6%; for stage III 61.7%, 72.5%, and 58.8%; and for stage IVa 57.3%, 73.7%, and 63.9%, respectively. Postoperative (chemo)radiotherapy improved the outcome for advanced disease. p16‐positive tumors had superior survival estimates. Overall, 93.5% maintained regular oral nutrition without feeding tube dependency.

Conclusion

Primary TLM in multimodal concepts of treatment offers good oncologic outcome even for advanced‐stage oropharyngeal cancer.
Evaluation of the sequence method as a tool to assess spontaneous baroreflex in reptiles
Authors: Filogonio Renato , Orsolini Karina F. , Castro Samanta A. , Oda Gustavo M. , Rocha Gabriella C. , Tavares Driele , Abe Augusto S. , Leite Cléo A. C.
Published: June 2019

The sequence method is an alternative to the traditional pharmacological approach (i.e., the Oxford technique) used to calculate baroreflex gain (G) in mammals. Although the sequence method assesses baroreflex by measuring spontaneous events of blood pressure regulation, the pharmacological method relies on the injection of vasoactive drugs that impact the baroreflex mechanism itself. The sequence method might be relevant for dynamic measurement of baroreflex modulation but it was never validated for vertebrates with low heart rate. Hence, we tested the sequence method in three species of reptiles and compared the results with those provided by the classic pharmacological method. G was similar between both methods and values correlated when parameters for the sequence method were set at delay 0 or 1 (i.e., the baroreflex system responds immediately to blood pressure changes or after 1 heartbeat). Calculation of the baroreflex effectiveness index was adequate at a minimum of 300 cycles and a delay of 1 for the three species. Therefore, the sequence method has been validated to investigate baroreflex regulation in reptiles, enabling studies during dynamic alterations in homeostasis.
Volitional Suppression of Parkinsonian Resting Tremor
Authors: Blakemore Rebekah L. , MacAskill Michael R. , Myall Daniel J. , Anderson Tim J.
Published: June 2019

Background

We have observed in the clinic that a number of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) can suppress their tremor at will for brief periods, by conscious mental processes. To our knowledge, the ability to consciously diminish one's resting tremor has not yet been reported nor assessed quantitatively.

Objective

To provide the first detailed systematic investigation of the phenomenon of voluntary tremor suppression in PD.

Methods

We examined changes in tremor characteristics during voluntary tremor suppression in 37 PD patients (on medication) presenting with rest tremor in their upper limb. We measured tremor oscillations with a triaxis accelerometer on the index finger of the most‐affected hand (n = 27). With surface electromyography (EMG), we measured changes in neuromuscular activity of the forearm flexor digitorum superficialis and extensor digitorum muscles (n = 15). Participants completed four 1‐minute trials, consisting of alternating consecutive 30‐second periods of resting tremor and 30‐second periods of attempted tremor suppression.

Results

Bayesian multilevel modeling revealed that attempted voluntary tremor suppression did indeed reduce tremor amplitude (peak power) of the acceleration signal and increased tremor frequency of the acceleration and EMG signals. Relative EMG power in the 3‐ to 8‐Hz tremor band was also smaller. Tremor suppression was not by enhanced voluntary contraction of the relevant muscle pairs.

Conclusions

We present novel empirical evidence that PD resting tremor can be suppressed by an act of will, as evidenced by significant modulation of key neurophysiological tremor characteristics. These data highlight that it is possible to exert significant conscious control over parkinsonian resting tremor.
On the 1D viscous reactive and radiative gas with the first‐order Arrhenius kinetics
Authors: Qin Yuming , Huang Lan
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we shall establish the global existence and exponential stability of solutions in Hi(i = 1,2,4) for a Stefan‐Boltzmann model of a viscous, reactive, and radiative gas with the first‐order Arrhenius kinetics in a bounded interval.
Similarity solution for a spherical shock wave in a non‐ideal gas under the influence of gravitational field and monochromatic radiation with increasing energy
Authors: Sahu Praveen Kumar
Published: June 2019

The propagation of a spherical shock wave in a non‐ideal gas with or without gravitational effects is investigated under the action of monochromatic radiation. Similarity solutions are obtained for adiabatic flow between the shock and the piston. The numerical solutions are obtained using the Runge‐Kutta method of the fourth order. The density of the gas is assumed to be constant. The total energy of the shock wave is non‐constant and varies with time. The effects of change in values of non‐idealness parameter, gravitational parameter, shock Mach number, radiation parameter, and adiabatic exponent of the gas on shock strength and flow variables are worked out in detail. It is investigated that the presence of gravitational field increases the compressibility of the medium, due to which it is compressed and, therefore, the distance between the inner contact surface and the shock surface is reduced. A comparison is also made between the solutions in the cases of the gravitating and the non‐gravitating media. It is manifested that the gravitational parameter and the radiation parameter have in general opposite behaviour on the flow variables and the shock strength.
Energy conservation during remeshing in the analysis of dynamic fracture
Authors: Chen Lin , Li Bin , de Borst René
Published: June 2019

The analysis of (dynamic) fracture often requires multiple changes to the discretisation during crack propagation. The state vector from the previous time step must then be transferred to provide the initial values of the next time step. A novel methodology based on a least‐squares fit is proposed for this mapping. The energy balance is taken as a constraint in the mapping, which results in a complete energy preservation. Apart from capturing the physics better, this also has advantages for numerical stability. To further improve the accuracy, Powell‐Sabin B‐splines, which are based on triangles, have been used for the discretisation. Since
continuity of the displacement field holds at crack tips for Powell‐Sabin B‐splines, the stresses at and around crack tips are captured much more accurately than when using elements with a standard Lagrangian interpolation, or with NURBS and T‐splines. The versatility and accuracy of the approach to simulate dynamic crack propagation are assessed in two case studies, featuring mode‐I and mixed‐mode crack propagation.
A review of molecular mechanisms involved in anticancer and antiangiogenic effects of natural polyphenolic compounds
Authors: Abbaszadeh Hassan , Keikhaei Bijan , Mottaghi Sayeh
Published: June 2019

The aim of this review is to obtain a further understanding of the reported inhibitory effects of polyphenols on cancer cell proliferation and angiogenesis process and the probable mechanisms by which these natural compounds inhibit proliferation of cancer cells and angiogenesis. Growing evidence indicates that polyphenols are beneficial against human fatal diseases such as cancer. Because angiogenesis has a critical role in tumor growth and metastasis, therefore, we decided to review the potential anticancer and antiangiogenic activities and molecular mechanisms of different groups of known polyphenolic compounds. As knowledge and data on anticancer and antiangiogenic effects of plant‐derived phenols are on the rise, it may be possible in the near future to develop and discover specific polyphenolic compounds with potent anticancer and antiangiogenic activity for treatment of malignant tumors.
A generalized Turán problem in random graphs
Authors: Samotij Wojciech , Shikhelman Clara
Published: June 2019

We study a generalization of the Turán problem in random graphs. Given graphsTandH, let ex(G(n,p),T,H) be the largest number of copies ofTin anH‐free subgraph ofG(n,p). We study the threshold phenomena arising in the evolution of the typical value of this random variable, for everyHand every 2‐balancedT. Our results in the case whenm2(H) > m2(T) are a natural generalization of the Erdős‐Stone theorem forG(n,p), proved several years ago by Conlon‐Gowers and Schacht; the caseT = Kmwas previously resolved by Alon, Kostochka, and Shikhelman. The case whenm2(H) ≤ m2(T) exhibits a more complex behavior. Here, the location(s) of the (possibly multiple) threshold(s) are determined by densities of various coverings ofHwith copies ofTand the typical value(s) of ex(G(n,p),T,H) are given by solutions to deterministic hypergraph Turán‐type problems that we are unable to solve in full generality.
So Many Hospitals, So Little Information: How Hospital Value‐Based Purchasing Is a Game of Chance
Authors: Friedson Andrew I. , Horrace William C. , Marier Allison F.
Published: June 2019

As part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, participating hospitals have part of their Medicare reimbursements withheld and then redistributed based on quality performance. The Hospital Value‐Based Purchasing reimbursement plan relies partly on ordinal rankings of hospitals to determine how money is distributed. We analyze the quality metric score distributions that underlie payment redistribution and show that there is not enough information to reliably differentiate hospitals from one another near the program point cutoffs, and conclude that a large part of the payment formula is driven by sampling variability rather than true quality information. An alternative plan for rewarding hospitals is developed.
Synaptic signals mediated by protons and acid‐sensing ion channels
Authors: Uchitel Osvaldo D. , González Inchauspe Carlota , Weissmann Carina
Published: June 2019

Extracellular pH changes may constitute significant signals for neuronal communication. During synaptic transmission, changes in pH in the synaptic cleft take place. Its role in the regulation of presynaptic Ca2+ currents through multivesicular release in ribbon‐type synapses is a proven phenomenon. In recent years, protons have been recognized as neurotransmitters that participate in neuronal communication in synapses of several regions of the CNS such as amygdala, nucleus accumbens, and brainstem. Protons are released by nerve stimulation and activate postsynaptic acid‐sensing ion channels (ASICs). Several types of ASIC channels are expressed in the peripheral and central nervous system. The influx of Ca2+ through some subtypes of ASICs, as a result of synaptic transmission, agrees with the participation of ASICs in synaptic plasticity. Pharmacological and genetical inhibition of ASIC1a results in alterations in learning, memory, and phenomena like fear and cocaine‐seeking behavior. The recognition of endogenous molecules, such as arachidonic acid, cytokines, histamine, spermine, lactate, and neuropeptides, capable of inhibiting or potentiating ASICs suggests the existence of mechanisms of synaptic modulation that have not yet been fully identified and that could be tuned by new emerging pharmacological compounds with potential therapeutic benefits.
Fetal intra‐abdominal bowel dilation in prediction of complex gastroschisis
Authors: Andrade W. S. , Brizot M. L. , Francisco R. P. V. , Tannuri A. C. , Syngelaki A. , Akolekar R. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: June 2019

Objective

To investigate intra‐abdominal bowel dilation (IABD) in the prediction of complex gastroschisis.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 174 singleton pregnancies with isolated fetal gastroschisis, resulting in live birth and with available ultrasound images from visits at both 20–22 and 30–32 weeks' gestation. IABD was measured as the greatest transverse diameter of the most dilated intra‐abdominal bowel segment, by an operator blinded to postnatal outcome. The distribution of IABD measurements in those with complex and those with simple gastroschisis was determined and the best cut‐off value to predict complex gastroschisis was selected using receiver–operating characteristics (ROC) curves. The area under the ROC curve (AUC), detection rate (DR), false‐positive rate (FPR), positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were determined.

Results

The study population included 39 (22.4%) cases of complex and 135 (77.6%) cases of simple gastroschisis. In the prediction of complex gastroschisis, the AUC at 20–22 weeks' gestation was 0.742 (95% CI, 0.628–0.856) and the respective value for 30–32 weeks was 0.820 (95% CI, 0.729–0.910). At the IABD cut‐off of 7 mm at 20–22 weeks, DR, FPR, PPV and NPV for complex gastroschisis were 61.5%, 6.7%, 72.7% and 89.4%, respectively, and at IABD cut‐off of 14 mm at 30–32 weeks, the respective values were 64.9%, 5.9%, 75.0% and 90.7%.

Conclusion

Measurement of IABD at 20–22 or at 30–32 weeks' gestation is useful in the prediction of complex gastroschisis. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
A five-year follow-up study of antioxidants, oxidative stress and polyunsaturated fatty acids in schizophrenia
Authors: Solberg Dag K. , Refsum Helge , Andreassen Ole A. , Bentsen Håvard
Published: June 2019

Objective:

Oxidative stress and dysregulated antioxidant defence may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. In the present study, we investigated changes in antioxidants and oxidative stress from an acute to a later stable phase. We hypothesised that the levels of oxidative markers are increased in schizophrenia compared with healthy controls; change from the acute to the stable phase; and are associated with the levels of membrane polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and symptom severity.

Methods:

Fifty-five patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, assessed during an acute phase and 5 years later during a stable phase, and 51 healthy controls were included. We measured antioxidants (α-tocopherol, uric acid, albumin and bilirubin), markers of oxidative stress (F2-isoprostane and reactive oxygen metabolites) and membrane fatty acids. Antioxidants and oxidative stress markers were compared in schizophrenia versus healthy controls, adjusting for differences in sex, age and smoking, and changes over time. Associations between symptoms and PUFA were also investigated.

Results:

In the acute phase, α-tocopherol was significantly higher (p < 0.001), while albumin was lower (p < 0.001) compared with the stable phase. Changes in α-tocopherol were associated with PUFA levels in the acute phase. In the stable phase, schizophrenia patients had higher uric acid (p = 0.009) and lower bilirubin (p = 0.046) than healthy controls. CRP was higher in patients in the stable phase (p < 0.001), and there was no significant change from the acute phase.

Conclusion:

The present findings of change in antioxidant levels in the acute versus stable phase of schizophrenia the present findings suggest that redox regulation is dynamic and changes during different phases of the disorder.
Destruction of Towns and of Institutions Devoted to Religion, Education, Science and Art, as Punitive Measures
Authors: Garner James W.
Published: June 2019

With the possible exception of the violation of Belgian neutrality, no acts have provoked wider criticism than the burning of Louvain with its university, its cathedral, its library, including its books, manuscripts and scientific collections, the partial destruction of the cathedrals of Rhcims and Soissons, the alleged “massacre” at Aerschot, the “sacking” of Senlis, including the partial destruction of its cathedral, and the “atrocities” at Linsmeau, Termonde and Orsmael. The British Prime Minister, in his Guildhall speech of September 4th, characterized the burning of Louvain as “the greatest crime committed against civilization and culture since the Thirty Years War—a shameless holocaust of irreparable treasures lit up by blind barbarian vengeance.” Sir Frederick Pollock also declared that “it exceeded in horror and calculated wickedness any military crime committed since the Thirty Years War.” The London Times denounced it as “an atrocious act without a parallel even in the Dark Ages and one which would turn the hands of every civilized nation against the Germans.” These expressions fairly represent the opinion of the English and, to a large degree, the American public in regard to the character of the act.
Impact of dietary protein intake and obesity on lean mass in middle-aged individuals after a 12-year follow-up: the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES)
Authors: So Eunjin , Choi Seul Ki , Joung Hyojee
Published: June 2019

The present study investigated the association between protein intake and lean mass according to obesity status over a 12-year period. Data on 4412 participants aged 40–69 years were obtained from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. The usual dietary protein intake of these participants was assessed at baseline using a semi-quantitative FFQ. Body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis at baseline and after a 12-year follow-up. Linear mixed-effects models were used to examine the associations between lean mass after a 12-year follow-up and protein intake at baseline. After adjusting for covariates and lean mass at baseline, comparisons between the highest and lowest tertiles revealed that dietary protein intake was positively associated with lean mass in both men (β = 0·79, P = 0·001) and women (β = 0·28, P = 0·082) after the 12-year period; however, those differences were attenuated after additional adjustment for fat mass at baseline and were stronger in the normal-weight group (men, β = 0·85, P = 0·002; women, β = 0·97, P < 0·001) but were not detected in the obese group. In the obese group, age (men, β = 4·08, P < 0·001; women, β = 2·61, P < 0·001) and regular physical activity (men, β = 0·88, P = 0·054; women, β = 0·76, P < 0·001) were significantly associated with lean mass after 12 years of follow-up. The results of the present study showed that protein intake may contribute to the prevention of ageing-related lean mass loss; however, the impact of this intake may vary depending on obesity status. Therefore, the maintenance of a healthy body weight during ageing through enhanced protein intake is likely to confer health benefits.
On the Assurance Risks incident to Professional Military and Naval Lives; and the Rates of Extra Premiums which should be charged for such Risks
Authors: Smee A. H. , Ackland Thomas G.
Published: June 2019

In assessing the risks to be provided against in the case of professional military and naval lives, consideration has to be given to the following distinct elements:

(1) The risk of death at home stations, or the normal mortality.(2) The risk of death at foreign stations in time of peace, or the climate risk.(3) The risk of death in active military service in the constantly recurring “small wars.”(4) The risk of death in active military operations in “national wars.”(5) The liability, in time of peace, to foreign service.(6) The liability to active service in the field in “small wars.”(7) The liability to active service in the field in “national wars.”
Some Notes on Life Assurance in Greater Britain, particularly with reference to the Work and Development of the Native Offices
Authors: Tarn Arthur Wyndham
Published: June 2019

Although a great deal of what might be fairly comprised under the heading to this paper came under discussion last year at the International Congress of Actuaries, I yet venture to submit that, upon so important and comprehensive a subject as the one I have chosen, there is a considerable amount of information, statistical and actuarial, which at that great gathering was not even touched upon. In the first place, the contributions to the Congress, valuable though they were, dealt only with the experience of individual Colonies or groups of Colonies, and the observations of the contributors were limited to particular branches of their subject. Secondly, some of the principal British Possessions, such as India, Canada, and the West Indies, appear to have been entirely unrepresented as regards life assurance among the subjects discussed. It is, therefore, with the object, partly of filling up a few of the gaps left vacant at the Congress, but chiefly of surveying the subject as affecting not merely individual Colonies or Dependencies, but the whole of the British Empire outside our own country, that I have collected and set down these notes.
The Decennial of the Actuarial Society of America
Authors: Pierson Israel C.
Published: June 2019

The Institute of Actuaries had been in existence forty-one years when the first decisive steps were taken by the actuaries of America to form an Association for the promotion of the Science of Life Insurance. It happened that in February 1889, Messrs. David Parks Fackler, Clayton C. Hall, Sheppard Homans, Emory McClintock, and Howell W. St. John (the third and fourth being respectively a Corresponding Member and a Fellow of the Institute), independently thought of proposing an organization of actuaries. Somewhat by accident their ideas were intercommunicated. On the request of the four other gentlemen, Mr. Fackler sent letters to the actuaries of the regular Life Insurance Companies in the United States and Canada, which called forth replies cordially favourable to the project. Accordingly, in response to an invitation of actuaries resident in New York, on 24 April 1889 twenty-nine of the actuaries met at the Astor House in New York, and, after a conference which exhibited a marked unanimity, founded the Actuarial Society of America. On 25 April, they adopted a Constitution and elected officers.
On the Rates of Mortality in New South Wales and Victoria, and the Construction of a Mortality Table from a single Census and the Deaths in the Years adjacent thereto
Authors: Moors Elphinstone McMahon , Day William Reginald
Published: June 2019

In the following pages we give a description of the method pursued in an investigation into the Mortality Rates of the combined populations of New South Wales and Victoria, also tabular statements of the results at which we arrived. We offer no apology for trespassing on the courtesy of the Institute and asking their attention to a paper on such a well-worn subject as mortality rates, inasmuch as the rates of mortality being experienced by persons living in different parts of the world, are in themselves of more than passing interest. Moreover, where the population under consideration has been largely transplanted from a home on one side of the globe to a new land on the other, amidst new surroundings, experiencing a new climate, and cultivating almost virgin soil, its progress in the social scale will probably attract more than usual attention. The Australian Colonies afford an excellent example of such a new nation, and their rapid development makes their experience in mortality a subject of more than usual moment, both to themselves and to the mother country. Not only is there the desire to compare their present mortality rates with those prevailing in the mother land but there is the additional incentive to enquiry as to whether their own present experience is varying from that of their earlier days. To those engaged in the conduct of Industrial Business, rates of mortality, derived from the statistics of the general population, are an absolute necessity; and as industrial assurance is now making rapid strides in the Australian Colonies, a paper dealing with Australian mortality should be welcomed by those most closely associated with that class of business.
The Case for Census Reform
Authors: Ryan G. H.
Published: June 2019

On the invitation of the President, I have undertaken, not without reluctance, to open the present Session with some observations upon the varied and interesting questions arising out of our Census system. The reluctance is to be explained as being due not to the disinclination to accept any task that may be thought to be of service to our Institute, but to the feeling that I have perhaps too readily consented to fill the part in the proceedings of the Session which has on some previous occasions been upheld by the President himself in a second inaugural address. The great interest excited by our President's address twelve months ago will cause legitimate regret that he should have ceded the place of honour and responsibility to a humbler member of the craft, thus adopting a course which, though also sanctioned by custom, leaves our anticipations unsatisfied. My fellow-members will be prompt to realise that this circumstance increases the anxieties with which I enter upon the subject of this evening's discussion, and will grant me that indulgence always extended to those who find themselves in a position to which they are unaccustomed.