bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Static Application of Transient Hydrodynamic Loads on Vessel Internal Structures As a Result of Pulse Jet Mixer Overblow: Low-Frequency Loads
Authors: Garcilazo Rafael , Fant Brian , Blevins Robert
Published: October 2020

At the Hanford Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant (WTP), various vessels are designed to be agitated with internal pulse jet mixers (PJMs) in order to provide a means of mixing with no moving parts local to the vessel. PJMs are operated by use of an applied vacuum to draw liquid in followed by motive air to force liquid out (while not completely discharging all the liquid). This continual operation results in mixing of the vessel contents. In off-normal conditions, PJMs may completely discharge resulting in air rapidly injected into the vessel (PJM overblow).

An evaluation is complete to determine the statically applied transient Rayleigh-Plesset bubble loads resulting from PJM overblow on the vessel’s internal submerged structures. The low-frequency bubble loads on internal structures is determined via analysis of overblow test data, application of the Rayleigh-Plesset equation based on bubble pressure, PJM nozzle critical flow ratios, conservation of momentum, the relative equation of motion of a submerged non-fixed structure subject to both relative drag and relative acceleration, non-flow boundary conditions, use of a displacement-response spectra, and Hooke’s Law.

This theoretical Rayleigh-Plesset bubble loads model accounts for various vessel and internal submerged structure designs and different operational states: PJM cavity pressure, liquid density, depth of submerged bubble, and both choked or non-choked flow through the PJM nozzle.
Cycling Performance and Training Load: Effects of Intensity and Duration
Authors: Kesisoglou Antonis , Nicolò Andrea , Passfield Louis
Published: October 2020

Purpose: To examine the effect of cycling exercise intensity and duration on subsequent performance and to compare the resulting acute performance decrement (APD) with total work done (TWD) and corresponding training-load (TL) metrics. Methods: A total of 14 male cyclists performed a 5-minute time trial (TT) as a baseline and after 4 initial exercise bouts of varying exercise intensity and duration. The initial exercise bouts were performed in a random order and consisted of a 5- and a 20-minute TT and a 20- and a 40-minute submaximal ride. The resulting APD was calculated as the percentage change in 5-minute TT from baseline, and this was compared with the TWD and TL metrics for the corresponding initial exercise bout. Results: Average power output was different for each of the 4 initial exercise bouts (; P < .001), and all bouts resulted in an APD. But APD was only different when comparing maximal with submaximal bouts (; P < .001). The APD contradicted TWD and TL metrics and was not different when comparing 5- and 20-minute maximal TTs or the 20- and 40-minute submaximal bouts. In contrast, TL metrics were different for all training sessions (; P < .001). Conclusion: An APD is found after initial exercise bouts consisting of 5- and 20-minute TTs and after 20- and 40-minute of submaximal exercise that is not consistent with the corresponding values for TWD or TL. This discrepancy highlights important shortcomings when using TWD and TL to compare exercise bouts of different intensity and duration.
Silencing of Ac45 Simultaneously Inhibits Osteoclast-Mediated Bone Resorption and Attenuates Dendritic Cell-Mediated Inflammation through Impairing Acidification and Cathepsin K Secretion
Authors: Yang Wenbin , Zhu Zheng , Li Longjiang , McVicar Abigail , Gao Ning , Wang Lin , Li Yi-Ping , Chen Wei
Published: October 2020

Endodontic disease is characterized by inflammation and destruction of periapical tissues, leading to severe bone resorption and tooth loss. ATP6AP1 (Ac45) has been implicated in human immune diseases, yet the mechanism underlying how Ac45 regulates immune response and reaction in inflammatory diseases remains unknown. We generated endodontic disease mice through bacterial infection as an inflammatory disease model and used adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediatedAc45RNA interference knockdown to study the function of Ac45 in periapical inflammation and bone resorption.
Environmental and Physiological Factors Affecting High-Throughput Measurements of Bacterial Growth
Authors: Atolia Esha , Cesar Spencer , Arjes Heidi A. , Rajendram Manohary , Shi Handuo , Knapp Benjamin D. , Khare Somya , Aranda-Díaz Andrés , Lenski Richard E. , Huang Kerwyn Casey
Published: October 2020

How starved bacteria adapt and multiply under replete nutrient conditions is intimately linked to their history of previous growth, their physiological state, and the surrounding environment. While automated equipment has enabled high-throughput growth measurements, data interpretation and knowledge gaps regarding the determinants of growth kinetics complicate comparisons between strains. Here, we present a framework for growth measurements that improves accuracy and attenuates the effects of growth history. We determined that background absorbance quantification and multiple passaging cycles allow for accurate growth rate measurements even in carbon-poor media, which we used to reveal growth-rate increases during long-term laboratory evolution of
Escherichia coli
. Using mathematical modeling, we showed that maximum growth rate depends on initial cell density. Finally, we demonstrated that growth of
Bacillus subtilis
with glycerol inhibits the future growth of most of the population, due to lipoteichoic acid synthesis. These studies highlight the challenges of accurate quantification of bacterial growth behaviors.
Micron Scale Spatial Measurement of the O
2
Gradient Surrounding a Bacterial Biofilm in Real Time
Authors: Klementiev Alexander D. , Jin Zhaoyu , Whiteley Marvin
Published: October 2020

O
2
is a fundamental environmental metabolite that affects all life on earth. While toxic to many microbes and obligately required by others, those that have appropriate physiological responses survive and can even benefit from various levels of O
2
, particularly in biofilm communities. Although most studies have focused on measuring O
2
within biofilms, little is known about O
2
gradients surrounding biofilms. Here, we developed electrochemical methodology based on scanning electrochemical microscopy to measure the O
2
gradients surrounding biofilms in real time on the micron scale. Our results reveal that
P. aeruginosa
biofilms produce a hypoxic zone that can extend hundreds of microns from the biofilm surface and that this gradient remains even after the addition of antibiotic concentrations that eradicated 99% of viable cells. Our results provide a high resolution of the O
2
gradients produced by
P. aeruginosa
biofilms and reveal sustained O
2
consumption in the presence of antibiotics.
Heterologous Production of 1-Tuberculosinyladenosine in Mycobacterium kansasii Models Pathoevolution towards the Transcellular Lifestyle of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Ghanem Marwan , Dubé Jean-Yves , Wang Joyce , McIntosh Fiona , Houle Daniel , Domenech Pilar , Reed Michael B. , Raman Sahadevan , Buter Jeffrey , Minnaard Adriaan J. , Moody D. Branch , Behr Marcel A.
Published: October 2020

This work sheds light on the role of the lipid 1-tuberculosinyladenosine in the evolution of an environmental ancestor toM. tuberculosis. On a larger scale, it reinforces the importance of horizontal gene transfer in bacterial evolution and examines novel models and methods to provide a better understanding of the subtle effects of individualM. tuberculosis-specific virulence factors in infection settings that are relevant to the pathogen.
Maternal diabetes and the risk of feeding and eating disorders in offspring: a national population-based cohort study
Authors: Wang Hui , He Hua , Yu Yongfu , Su Xiujuan , Li Fei , Li Jiong
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Previous studies have suggested that maternal diabetes may have programming effect on fetal brain development. However, little is known about the association between maternal diabetes and neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring that mainly manifest in infancy or early childhood. We aimed to examine the association between maternal diabetes before or during pregnancy and feeding and eating disorders (FED) in offspring.

Research design and methods

This population-based cohort study included 1 193 891 singletons born in Denmark during 1996–2015. These children were followed from birth until the onset of FED, the sixth birthday, death, emigration, or 31 December 2016, whichever came first. Relative risk of FED was estimated by HRs using Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

A total of 40 867 (3.4%) children were born to mothers with diabetes (20 887 with pregestational diabetes and 19 980 with gestational diabetes). The incidence rates of FED were 6.8, 4.6 and 2.9 per 10 000 person-years among children of mothers with pregestational diabetes, gestational diabetes and no diabetes, respectively. Offspring of mothers with diabetes had a 64% increased risk of FED (HR 1.64; 95% CI 1.36 to 1.99; p<0.001). The HR for maternal pregestational diabetes and gestational diabetes was 2.01 (95% CI 1.59 to 2.56; p<0.001) and 1.28 (95% CI 0.95 to 1.72; p=0.097), respectively. The increased risk was more pronounced among offspring of mothers with diabetic complications (HR 2.97; 95% CI 1.54 to 5.72; p=0.001).

Conclusions

Maternal diabetes was associated with an increased risk of FED in offspring in infancy and early childhood. Our findings can inform clinical decisions for better management of maternal diabetes, in particular before pregnancy, which can reduce early neurodevelopmental problems in the offspring.
Frequent outpatient attendance among people on the governmental welfare programme in Japan: assessing both patient and supplier characteristics
Authors: Nishioka Daisuke , Saito Junko , Ueno Keiko , Kondo Naoki
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Using linkage data from two municipal public assistance databases and medical assistance claim data, this study aimed to identify characteristics associated with frequent outpatient attendance by people on public assistance, who can access medical care services without copayment in Japan, with simultaneous consideration of supplier factors.

Design

We performed a retrospective cohort study.

Setting

We used secondary data from the public assistance databases of two suburban municipalities in Japan.

Participants

The study population included all adults on public assistance in January 2016, who were observed until December 2016. A total of 6016 people was included in the analysis. Among them, 2956 (49.1%) were men, and 2030 (33.7%) were living alone.

Outcome measure

We adopted the definition of frequent outpatient attendance by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, visiting the same medical facility 15 times or more in a month for the same health problem.

Results

Of 6016 included people, 139 (2.3%) were engaged in frequent outpatient attendance. Multiple Poisson regression showed that, as for the individual factors, the adjusted incidence ratio for frequent outpatient attendance was 1.58 (95% CI 1.05 to 2.39) for people living alone (vs living with others). As for the suppliers, the adjusted incidence ratio for frequent outpatient attendance was 1.74 (95% CI 1.20 to 2.52) for private institutions (vs medical corporations). There were no significant associations between frequent outpatient attendance and individual disability certificate or long-term care needs.

Conclusions

This study suggests that among recipients of public assistance who can access medical services without copayment, social isolation may be associated with frequent outpatient attendance. Private clinics may also be associated with this phenomenon. Interventions to prevent social isolation—by for example, providing health and social care in a more integrated manner—may thus be efficacious in reducing the healthcare demands of socially vulnerable individuals.
Prediction of perinatal death using machine learning models: a birth registry-based cohort study in northern Tanzania
Authors: Mboya Innocent B , Mahande Michael J , Mohammed Mohanad , Obure Joseph , Mwambi Henry G
Published: October 2020

Objective

We aimed to determine the key predictors of perinatal deaths using machine learning models compared with the logistic regression model.

Design

A secondary data analysis using the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) Medical Birth Registry cohort from 2000 to 2015. We assessed the discriminative ability of models using the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) and the net benefit using decision curve analysis.

Setting

The KCMC is a zonal referral hospital located in Moshi Municipality, Kilimanjaro region, Northern Tanzania. The Medical Birth Registry is within the hospital grounds at the Reproductive and Child Health Centre.

Participants

Singleton deliveries (n=42 319) with complete records from 2000 to 2015.

Primary outcome measures

Perinatal death (composite of stillbirths and early neonatal deaths). These outcomes were only captured before mothers were discharged from the hospital.

Results

The proportion of perinatal deaths was 3.7%. There were no statistically significant differences in the predictive performance of four machine learning models except for bagging, which had a significantly lower performance (AUC 0.76, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.79, p=0.006) compared with the logistic regression model (AUC 0.78, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.81). However, in the decision curve analysis, the machine learning models had a higher net benefit (ie, the correct classification of perinatal deaths considering a trade-off between false-negatives and false-positives)—over the logistic regression model across a range of threshold probability values.

Conclusions

In this cohort, there was no significant difference in the prediction of perinatal deaths between machine learning and logistic regression models, except for bagging. The machine learning models had a higher net benefit, as its predictive ability of perinatal death was considerably superior over the logistic regression model. The machine learning models, as demonstrated by our study, can be used to improve the prediction of perinatal deaths and triage for women at risk.
Kids’ Outcomes And Long-term Abilities (KOALA): protocol for a prospective, longitudinal cohort study of mild traumatic brain injury in children 6 months to 6 years of age
Authors: Beauchamp Miriam H , Dégeilh Fanny , Yeates Keith , Gagnon Isabelle , Tang Ken , Gravel Jocelyn , Stang Antonia , Burstein Brett , Bernier Annie , Lebel Catherine , El Jalbout Ramy , Lupien Sonia , de Beaumont Louis , Zemek Roger , Dehaes Mathieu , Deschênes Sylvain
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is highly prevalent, especially in children under 6 years. However, little research focuses on the consequences of mTBI early in development. The objective of the Kids’ Outcomes And Long-term Abilities (KOALA) study is to document the impact of early mTBI on children’s motor, cognitive, social and behavioural functioning, as well as on quality of life, stress, sleep and brain integrity.

Methods and analyses

KOALA is a prospective, multicentre, longitudinal cohort study of children aged 6 months to 6 years at the time of injury/recruitment. Children who sustain mTBI (n=150) or an orthopaedic injury (n=75) will be recruited from three paediatric emergency departments (PEDs), and compared with typically developing children (community controls, n=75). A comprehensive battery of prognostic and outcome measures will be collected in the PED, at 10 days, 1, 3 and 12 months postinjury. Biological measures, including measures of brain structure and function (magnetic resonance imaging, MRI), stress (hair cortisol), sleep (actigraphy) and genetics (saliva), will complement direct testing of function using developmental and neuropsychological measures and parent questionnaires. Group comparisons and predictive models will test the a priori hypotheses that, compared with children from the community or with orthopaedic injuries, children with mTBI will (1) display more postconcussive symptoms and exhibit poorer motor, cognitive, social and behavioural functioning; (2) show evidence of altered brain structure and function, poorer sleep and higher levels of stress hormones. A combination of child, injury, socioenvironmental and psychobiological factors are expected to predict behaviour and quality of life at 1, 3 and 12 months postinjury.

Ethics and dissemination

The KOALA study is approved by the Sainte-Justine University Hospital, McGill University Health Centre and University of Calgary Conjoint Health Research Ethics Boards. Parents of participants will provide written consent. Dissemination will occur through peer-reviewed journals and an integrated knowledge translation plan.
Middle meningeal artery embolization for chronic subdural hematoma: an institutional technical analysis
Authors: Catapano Joshua S , Ducruet Andrew F , Nguyen Candice L , Baranoski Jacob F , Cole Tyler S , Majmundar Neil , Wilkinson D Andrew , Fredrickson Vance L , Cavalcanti Daniel D , Albuquerque Felipe C
Published: October 2020

Background

Recently, middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization has emerged as a potentially safe and effective method of treating chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH).

Objective

To report a single-center experience with MMA embolization and examines the type of embolic material used, the extent of penetration, and the number of MMA branches embolized.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all patients with MMA embolization from 2018 through 2019 was performed. A failed outcome was defined as either surgical rescue and/or greater than 10 mm of hematoma residual or reaccumulation following embolization.

Results

Of 35 patients, surgery had failed for 9 (26%) and initial conservative treatment had failed for 6 (17%). Of 41 MMA embolizations, including those in six patients with bilateral cSDH who underwent bilateral MMA embolization, 29 (72%) were performed using ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (Onyx), 7 (17%) using particles, and 5 (12%) using n-butyl cyanoacrylate. Both the anterior and posterior MMA divisions were embolized in 29 cases (71%); distal penetration of these branches was achieved in 25 embolizations (61%). Twenty-six (63%) cSDHs completely resolved. Complete resolution was seen in 22 of 29 hematomas (76%) in which both anterior and posterior MMA branches were occluded versus 4 of 12 (33%) following single-branch embolization (p=0.014). Embolization of one cSDH (2%) failed.

Conclusion

MMA embolization of cSDHs appears to be both safe and efficacious. Furthermore, embolization of both the anterior and posterior MMA branches may be associated with increased odds of complete resolution.
The Birkenhead drill suggests ‘women and children first': government and society’s reversal of the drill during the COVID-19 pandemic, left children last and cannot be allowed to continue
Authors: Brierley Joe , Larcher Vic
Published: October 2020

The Birkenhead drill states that in the time of crisis, the correct action is to prioritise the weakest and most vulnerable, in that example, women and children. Ethically this has been well analysed in terms of the intrinsic value of the human versus any utilitarian calculus of worth to society’s function. We do not attempt to re-analyse this but do note that standard pandemic planning often disadvantages the weak and vulnerable in terms of allocation of resources to those with a greater chance of functional survival. We more argue from a debt that society owes its children in terms of the sacrifices they have made in terms of school, social life, healthcare and overall welfare during the pandemic from which they were at markedly less risk than adults. Society owes a debt to its young, and this on top of pre-existing commitments to the them that most nations fail to realise, calls for prioritisation of children and young people’s issues as society rebuilds. The effects of poverty and systemic racism on many children must be tackled; so too the existential threats of climate change and pollution. COVID-19 provides a once in a generation opportunity to create a kinder, fairer society. Early signs are not good: Pub re-opening prioritised over school re-opening; no significant investment in children’s services or women’s health, a significant determinant of children’s welfare. We highlight the way COVID-19 has, and continues, to harm children and argue that the contemporary erosion of the Birkenhead principle is simply amoral.
Challenges in semileptonic $${\varvec{B}}$$ decays
Authors: Gambino P. , Kronfeld A. S. , Rotondo M. , Schwanda C. , Bernlochner F. , Bharucha A. , Bozzi C. , Calvi M. , Cao L. , Ciezarek G. , Davies C. T. H. , El-Khadra A. X. , Hashimoto S. , Jung M. , Khodjamirian A. , Ligeti Z. , Lunghi E. , Lüth V. , Mannel T. , Meinel S. , Paz G. , Schacht S. , Simula S. , Sutcliffe W. , Avilés-Casco A. Vaquero
Published: October 2020

Two of the elements of the Cabibbo–Kobayashi–Maskawa quark mixing matrix, $$|V_{ub}|$$

|

V

ub

|

and $$|V_{cb}|$$

|

V

cb

|

, are extracted from semileptonic B decays. The results of the B factories, analysed in the light of the most recent theoretical calculations, remain puzzling, because for both $$|V_{ub}|$$

|

V

ub

|

and $$|V_{cb}|$$

|

V

cb

|

the exclusive and inclusive determinations are in clear tension. Further, measurements in the $$\tau $$
τ
channels at Belle, Babar, and LHCb show discrepancies with the Standard Model predictions, pointing to a possible violation of lepton flavor universality. LHCb and Belle II have the potential to resolve these issues in the next few years. This article summarizes the discussions and results obtained at the MITP workshop held on April 9–13, 2018, in Mainz, Germany, with the goal to develop a medium-term strategy of analyses and calculations aimed at solving the puzzles. Lattice and continuum theorists working together with experimentalists have discussed how to reshape the semileptonic analyses in view of the much higher luminosity expected at Belle II, searching for ways to systematically validate the theoretical predictions in both exclusive and inclusive B decays, and to exploit the rich possibilities at LHCb.
Induced fermionic current in AdS spacetime in the presence of a cosmic string and a compactified dimension
Authors: Bellucci S. , dos Santos W. Oliveira , de Mello E. R. Bezerra
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we consider a massive charged fermionic quantum field and investigate the current densities induced by a magnetic flux running along the core of an idealized cosmic string in the background geometry of a 5-dimensional anti-de Sitter spacetime, assuming that an extra dimension is compactified. Along the compact dimension quasi-periodicity condition is imposed on the field with a general phase. Moreover, we admit the presence of a magnetic flux enclosed by the compactified axis. The latter gives rise to Ahanorov–Bohm-like effect on the vacuum expectation value of the currents. In this setup, only azimuthal and axial current densities take place. The former presents two contributions, with the first one due to the cosmic string in a 5-dimensional AdS spacetime without compact dimension, and the second one being induced by the compactification itself. The latter is an odd function of the magnetic flux along the cosmic string and an even function of the magnetic flux enclosed by the compactified axis with period equal to the quantum flux. As to the induced axial current, it is an even function of the magnetic flux along the string’s core and an odd function of the magnetic flux enclosed by the compactification perimeter. For untwisted and twisted field along compact dimension, the axial current vanishes. The massless field case is presented as well some asymptotic limits for the parameters of the model.
On quasinormal frequencies of black hole perturbations with an external source
Authors: Qian Wei-Liang , Lin Kai , Wu Jian-Pin , Wang Bin , Yue Rui-Hong
Published: October 2020

In the study of perturbations around black hole configurations, whether an external source can influence the perturbation behavior is an interesting topic to investigate. When the source acts as an initial pulse, it is intuitively acceptable that the existing quasinormal frequencies will remain unchanged. However, the confirmation of such an intuition is not trivial for the rotating black hole, since the eigenvalues in the radial and angular parts of the master equations are coupled. We show that for the rotating black holes, a moderate source term in the master equation in the Laplace s-domain does not modify the quasinormal modes. Furthermore, we generalize our discussions to the case where the external source serves as a driving force. Different from an initial pulse, an external source may further drive the system to experience new perturbation modes. To be specific, novel dissipative singularities might be brought into existence and enrich the pole structure. This is a physically relevant scenario, due to its possible implication in modified gravity. Our arguments are based on exploring the pole structure of the solution in the Laplace s-domain with the presence of the external source. The analytical analyses are verified numerically by solving the inhomogeneous differential equation and extracting the dominant complex frequencies by employing the Prony method.
Corrigendum to “Obstructions to deforming curves on a 3-fold, III: Deformations of curves lying on a K3 surface”
Authors: Nasu Hirokazu
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we make a correction to Theorem 3.3 of the aforementioned paper (Internat. J. Math. 28(13) (2017) 1750099). We also provide a counterexample to the theorem and point out an error in the proof.
SOLID PARTICLE EROSIVE WEAR BEHAVIOR OF Sol–Gel-DERIVED AA2024 THERMAL BARRIER COATINGS
Authors: KUMAR DIPAK , PANDEY K. N.
Published: October 2020

Solid particle erosion behavior of non-conventional thermal barrier coatings prepared by dip coating of sol–gel 7[Formula: see text]wt.% yttria-stabilized zirconia (7YSZ) has been studied in the present paper. The purpose was to show its applicability to protect aeronautic bodies vulnerable under solid particle impact, e.g. the leading edges of the wings, the radome or the leading edges of rotor blades. The effect of operational variables on erosion rate is studied both for uncoated AA2024-T351 substrate and sol–gel-derived 7YSZ top-coat on AA2024-T351 substrate. The interactive influence of variables on erosive wear behavior is also systematically studied using an air-jet erosion tester under four different parameters such as temperature (25, 150, 275 and [Formula: see text]C), impact angle ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]), impact particle velocity (40, 60, 80 and 100[Formula: see text]m/s) and erodent flow rate (2, 3, 4 and 5[Formula: see text]g/min) using L[Formula: see text] Taguchi design of experiments. The optimal experimental parameters were obtained by orthogonal arrays, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) for uncoated and coated aluminum alloys AA2024-T351. The temperature was found to be the most influencing parameter followed by impact angle, impact velocity and erodent flow rate for uncoated samples. For 7YSZ sol–gel coated samples, temperature was the most influencing parameter followed by impact angle, erodent flow rate and impact velocity.
First-order resonant in periodic orbits
Authors: Patel Bhavika M. , Pathak Niraj M. , Abouelmagd Elbaz I.
Published: October 2020

In the frame work of Saturn–Titan system, the resonant orbits of first-order are analyzed for three different families of periodic orbits, namely, interior resonant orbits, exterior resonant orbits and [Formula: see text]-Family orbits. This analysis is developed by considering Saturn as a spherical and oblate body. The initial position, semi-major axis, eccentricity, orbital period and order of resonant orbits of these families are investigated for different values of Jacobi constant and oblateness parameter.
Toward Efficient Block Replication Management in Distributed Storage
Authors: Liao Jianwei , Sha Zhibing , Cai Zhigang , Liu Zhiming , Li Kenli , Liao Wei-Keng , Choudhary Alok N. , Ishiakwa Yutaka
Published: October 2020

Distributed/parallel file systems commonly suffer from load imbalance and resource contention due to the bursty characteristic exhibited in scientific applications. This article presents an adaptive scheme supporting dynamic block data replication and an efficient replica placement policy to improve the I/O performance of a distributed file system. Our goal is not only to yield a balanced data replication among storage servers but also a high degree of data access parallelism for the applications. We first present mathematical cost models to formulate the cost of data block replication by considering both the overhead and reduced data access time to the replicated data. To verify the validity and feasibility of the proposed cost model, we implement our proposal in a prototype distributed file system and evaluate it using a set of representative database-relevant application benchmarks. Our results demonstrate that the proposed approach can boost the usage efficiency of the data replicas with acceptable overhead of data replication management. Consequently, the overall data throughput of storage system can be noticeably improved. In summary, the proposed replication management scheme works well, especially for the database-relevant applications that exhibit an uneven access frequency and pattern to different parts of files.
Simulation and Experiment of New Ultrasonic Vibration Network
Authors: Chen Xiwen , Li Xiaoqian , Gui Weihua , Landi Luca
Published: October 2020

A reasonable ultrasonic vibration network can improve the casting quality of aluminum alloy. Ultrasonic vibration network based on a honeycomb structure has been designed, referred to as a new vibration network. The new vibration network can solve the problems of nonuniform distribution of power ultrasonic wave, small working area and low volume of ultrasonic vibration network, low efficiency of the frequency spectrum and power spectrum, and poor quality of aluminum alloy casting. The number of vibration nodes can be determined based on the number of layers of the vibration source nodes. The edge length of regular hexagonal honeycomb cells can be determined based on the size of the casting ingot. The output power and resonant frequency of the ultrasonic vibration network can be adjusted in real time according to the status of aluminum alloy melt. A seven-node new ultrasonic network and a four-node ultrasonic network with a traditional structure were selected and used in the experiment and simulation of a 500 mm diameter 2219 aluminum alloy ingot. In comparison with the traditional four-node ultrasonic network, the effective volume and area, frequency spectrum efficiency, and comprehensive coverage probability of the seven-node new ultrasonic vibration network increased by 34.06%, 23.12%, 17.25%, and 0.308, respectively. The difference between the desired value and average efficiency of the power spectrum was 0.292 W/cm2, and the average grain size of aluminum alloy decreased by 34.98 microns. These results indicate that the efficiency of ultrasonic-vibration-assisted casting system and the quality of aluminum alloy casting can be improved using the new ultrasonic vibration network.
Surface Modification of a Stable CdSeZnS/ZnS Alloy Quantum Dot for Immunoassay
Authors: An Jaehyun , Huynh Kim-Hung , Ha Yuna , Jung Heung Su , Kim Hyung-Mo , Kim Dong-Min , Kim Jaehi , Pham Xuan-Hung , Kim Dong-Eun , Ho Jin-Nyoung , Lee Sangchul , Lee Ho-Young , Jeong Dae Hong , Jun Bong-Hyun
Published: October 2020

Quantum dots (QDs) are powerful materials in various bioapplications based on their excellent optical and electronic properties. For the application of various fields of QDs, surface modification of QDs is necessary. However, surface modification in QDs may result in a reduction in quantum yield (QY). This reduction of QY causes many weaknesses in the biological application of QDs. In this study, CdSeZnS/ZnS alloy QDs were used to prepare antibody-conjugated QDs for a sandwich immunoassay. The alloy QDs displayed a QY of 84.5% that was maintained at 83.0% (98.2% of QY was maintained) after surface modification with the anti-rabbit IgG as a model study. Surface-modified QDs successfully detected their corresponding target through antibody-antigen binding. The limit of detection was

1.1
×

10

2

 ng mL-1 for rabbit IgG.
Study on the Thermal Conductivity of Mannitol Enhanced by Graphene Nanoparticles for Thermoelectric Power Generation
Authors: Yu Jia , Wang Haoqing , Kong Li , Zhu Hongji , Zhu Qingshan
Published: October 2020

The existing thermoelectric materials are greatly affected by the temperature environment, which can provide better power output in a stable temperature environment by using composite phase change material with enhanced heat conduction. The graphene is dispersed in the liquid mannitol to make the nanomixed material. Test results show that the thermal conductivity of mannitol increased from 0.7 Wm-1 K-1 to 2.07 Wm-1 K-1, 179.73% times as much. The effective thermal conductivity of mannitol can be increased to 8.4236 Wm-1 K-1 by using a graphite foam with a porosity of 0.9. After adding 1 wt.% and 5 wt.% graphene particles, the effective thermal conductivity increased to 8.73 Wm-1 K-1 and 9.63 Wm-1 K-1, respectively. The simulation results in a large heat source environment show that mannitol with improved thermal conductivity can ensure the stable operation of the thermoelectric material in the optimal temperature environment for 120 s, and the open-circuit voltage is maintained at about 6.5 V in that time.
IoT-Based Healthcare Support System for Alzheimer’s Patients
Authors: Oskouei Rozita Jamili , MousaviLou Zahra , Bakhtiari Zohreh , Jalbani Khuda Bux
Published: October 2020

In the last decade, the Internet of Things (IoT) has become a new technology that aims to facilitate life and help people in all aspects of their lives. This technology is used for smart homes, smart grid stations, smart agriculture, health systems, transport services, smart cities, etc. The number of sensors and IoT devices along with applications is used for monitoring the health condition of patients. These devices will monitor the movement of targeted patients at home or out of their homes. Based on their behavior and movement, the treatment will be provided to Alzheimer’s patients. The data will be collected from multiple sensors installed at patient’s homes and smartwatches for checking their blood pressure level and temperature, which is too important in the current Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic for these types of patients. On the other hand, due to the diminishing mobility of people around the world, increasing environmental pollution and stress which is caused by modern machine life and various brain and neurological diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson, etc. are widespread among people all over the world. The different types of communication protocols such as Message Queue Telemetry Transport (MQTT) and WebSocket (with authentication and autoclosing of connection) for sensors and the smartwatch have been used. The secure backend admin panel is used for tracing the location of doctors, patients, and ambulance. These protocols are implemented with security to protect the privacy of patients also.
On Discrete Fractional Integral Inequalities for a Class of Functions
Authors: Rashid Saima , Ahmad Hijaz , Khalid Aasma , Chu Yu-Ming
Published: October 2020

Discrete fractional calculus

ℱ
C

is proposed to depict neural systems with memory impacts. This research article aims to investigate the consequences in the frame of the discrete proportional fractional operator.

ℏ

-discrete exponential functions are assumed in the kernel of the novel generalized fractional sum defined on the time scale

ℏ
ℤ

. The nabla

ℏ

-fractional sums are accounted in particular. The governing high discretization of problems is an advanced version of the existing forms that can be transformed into linear and nonlinear difference equations using appropriately adjusted transformations invoking property of observing the new chaotic behaviors of the logistic map. Based on the theory of discrete fractional calculus, explicit bounds for a class of positive functions

n

n
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concerned are established. These variants can be utilized as a convenient apparatus in the qualitative analysis of solutions of discrete fractional difference equations. With respect to applications, we can apply the introduced outcomes to explore boundedness, uniqueness, and continuous reliance on the initial value problem for the solutions of certain underlying worth problems of fractional difference equations.
Bottom Detection Method of Side-Scan Sonar Image for AUV Missions
Authors: Yu Huapeng , Li Ziyuan , Li Dailin , Shen Tongsheng
Published: October 2020

In order to obtain the measurement parameters of the sea bottom geomorphology or underwater objects, the first step in side-scan sonar (SSS) image processing is bottom detection. Due to the complexity of the marine environment, the acoustic signals received by SSS are usually polluted by noises, which affect its image quality and make the extraction of image features difficult. To address this problem, this study proposes an automatic detection method for the sea bottom line based on the actual experimental acquisition of SSS images, which is supposed to support the autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) for intelligent target detection and classification. The proposed method comprises four main steps. First, the raw SSS data is analyzed to obtain a grayscale image, and the blind zone boundary of the image is obtained using the threshold method. Then, the noise characteristics of the image are analyzed and the denoising algorithm is optimized to effectively remove high-frequency noise. Next, spatial-temporal matching calculations are performed on each ping port and starboard data, and the accurate coordinates of first bottom returns are obtained through extreme value detection. Finally, automatic and accurate detection of the bottom line is realized according to the smooth processing of the coordinate sequence of first bottom returns. The experiments have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed method. As the method does not require human intervention in adjusting parameters during operation, the proposed method with a certain time window imposed during image acquisition will be suitable for AUV missions when the SSS is determined.
Car Accidents Associated with Physical Frailty and Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Doi Takehiko , Ishii Hideaki , Tsutsumimoto Kota , Nakakubo Sho , Kurita Satoshi , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Age-related functional decline elevates the risk of car accidents. Whether specific cognitive impairments and physical frailty increase the risk of car accidents is still unclarified. Objective: This study examines the association between car accidents, frailty, and cognitive function, owing to an increase in car accidents related to older adults. Methods: Data were collected from 12,013 older adults (45.4% women, mean age: 71.7 years [min: 60, max: 96]) enrolled in the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG) – Study of Geriatric Syndromes. A 2-year self-reported history of car accidents was assessed. The Japanese cardiovascular health study index was used as the criterion and included the following components of frailty: shrinking, weakness, exhaustion, low activity, and slowness. “Frailty” was assigned a value of 1 or more based on these components. Cognitive function was assessed using the NCGG Functional Assessment Tool, and cognitive impairment was assessed using a standardized value. Results: Of the participants, 1,117 (9.3%) had a car accident history. The proportions of the frailty components’ applicability were observed in the car accidents group compared to the non-car accidents group: shrinking (p = 0.006), exhaustion (p = 0.031), low activity (p = 0.034), and slowness (p = 0.030), but not weakness (p = 0.452). The proportion of cognitive impairment in executive function was also higher in the car accidents group (p = 0.011). A logistic regression analysis showed that both frailty (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.11–1.43; p < 0.001) and cognitive impairment (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.11–1.43, p < 0.001) are associated with car accidents. Discussion: This study’s findings contribute to enhancing the utility of risk assessments for older drivers. Further study is required to clarify the risk of car accidents.
Cystatin C and Risk of Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nair Pallavi , Misra Shubham , Nath Manabesh , Vibha Deepti , Srivastava Achal Kumar , Prasad Kameshwar , Kumar Pradeep
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Cystatin C (Cys C) has been found as a novel biomarker of neurodegenerative diseases, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Published studies on the role of Cys C as a biomarker of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) have not been reviewed systematically. Objective: Present meta-analysis was performed to elucidate the association between Cys C and risk of MCI. Methods: A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Trip databases, Worldwide Science, and Google Scholar from January 1, 1950, to April 30, 2020. Standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) using fixed or random effect models were used to calculate summary estimates. Quality of evidence was also assessed using the Diagnostic Accuracy Quality Scale (DAQS) and grading quality of evidence and strength of recommendations approach. Results: In our meta-analysis, 12 studies with a total of 2,433 MCI patients and 1,034 controls were included. Our findings suggest a strong association between increased levels of Cys C and risk of MCI as compared to control subjects (SMD = 2.39, 95% CI = 0.22–4.57). Subgroup analysis based on ethnicity, a significant association for the high level of Cys C with the risk of MCI was observed in the Asian population (SMD = 1.63, 95% CI = 0.44–2.82) but not in the Caucasian population (SMD = 2.80, 95% CI = [−0.66]−6.26). Conclusion: Cys C was associated with MCI, and it could be considered as a predictor for the risk of cognitive impairment.
Low FODMAP Diet Is Not Effective in Children with Functional Abdominal Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Boradyn Katarzyna Mirosława , Przybyłowicz Katarzyna Eufemia , Jarocka-Cyrta Elżbieta
Published: October 2020

Introduction: A diet low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAP) has been shown to reduce symptoms among adult patients and children with irritable bowel syndrome. There are no studies investigating the effectiveness of the low FODMAP diet in pediatric patients with functional abdominal pain (FAP). Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the low FODMAP diet in reducing gastrointestinal symptoms in children with FAP in comparison to the control diet based on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines. Methods: Twenty-seven children with diagnosed FAP were randomized to 2 groups. Each group received an intervention: the low FODMAP diet or the diet based on NICE. All food was prepared and delivered by a catering company. Data regarding gastrointestinal symptoms were recorded by participants during the 2-week baseline assessment and 4-week dietary intervention. The frequencies of abdominal pain and stools were reported as a number of events per day. The severity of abdominal pain was assessed using the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale. The assessment of stool consistency was based on the Bristol Stool Form Scale. Results: The tendency toward the improvement in abdominal symptoms was noted in the low FODMAP group but without statistical significance. No significant differences in stool consistency were observed in this group. The NICE group experienced significant reduction in abdominal pain intensity and frequency (p < 0.01) and improvement in stool consistency (93% reporting normal stool, p < 0.05). Conclusions: The results of this pilot study suggest that the low FODMAP diet is not effective in the reduction of symptoms in children with FAP.
Aspiration Prevention Surgery under Local Anesthesia for Palliative Care in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Sekiguchi Koyama Misaki , Ueha Rumi , Goto Takao , Sato Taku , Tachibana Akane , Mizumoto Yui , Nito Takaharu , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: October 2020

Aspiration prevention (AP) surgery may improve the quality of life (QOL) of patients with severe dysphagia. However, not all patients can endure this type of surgery under general anesthesia because of their poor status. Herein, we describe the cases of 2 patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) who underwent AP surgery for palliative care. Although both patients had tracheostomy due to severe dysphagia and respiratory impairment and frequently needed suction, they were successfully managed with AP surgery under local anesthesia. A tracheostoma was reshaped to be sufficiently large for an airway to be secured without a cannula. Their respiratory failure gradually improved, and suction frequency markedly decreased after surgery; thus, they could receive medical treatment at home. When patients with HNC under palliative care have a tracheal cannula and cannot vocalize, AP surgery under local anesthesia is an option to improve their QOL.
Evaluation of Speech-Based Digital Biomarkers: Review and Recommendations
Authors: Robin Jessica , Harrison John E. , Kaufman Liam D. , Rudzicz Frank , Simpson William , Yancheva Maria
Published: October 2020

Speech represents a promising novel biomarker by providing a window into brain health, as shown by its disruption in various neurological and psychiatric diseases. As with many novel digital biomarkers, however, rigorous evaluation is currently lacking and is required for these measures to be used effectively and safely. This paper outlines and provides examples from the literature of evaluation steps for speech-based digital biomarkers, based on the recent V3 framework (Goldsack et al., 2020). The V3 framework describes 3 components of evaluation for digital biomarkers: verification, analytical validation, and clinical validation. Verification includes assessing the quality of speech recordings and comparing the effects of hardware and recording conditions on the integrity of the recordings. Analytical validation includes checking the accuracy and reliability of data processing and computed measures, including understanding test-retest reliability, demographic variability, and comparing measures to reference standards. Clinical validity involves verifying the correspondence of a measure to clinical outcomes which can include diagnosis, disease progression, or response to treatment. For each of these sections, we provide recommendations for the types of evaluation necessary for speech-based biomarkers and review published examples. The examples in this paper focus on speech-based biomarkers, but they can be used as a template for digital biomarker development more generally.