bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shift Work Including Night Work and Long Working Hours in Industrial Plants Increases the Risk of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Skogstad Marit , Mamen Asgeir , Lunde Lars-Kristian , Ulvestad Bente , Matre Dagfinn , Aass Hans Christian D. , Øvstebø Reidun , Nielsen Pia , Samuelsen Kari N. , Skare Øivind , Sirnes Per Anton
Published: February 2019

There is an abundance of literature reporting an association between shift work and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Few studies have examined early manifestation of CVD using advanced modern methodology. We established a group of 65 shift workers and 29 day workers (controls) in two industrial plants. For the shift workers, the shift schedule includes rotating shifts with day, evening and nightshifts, some day and nightshifts lasting for 12 h. The current paper describes cross-sectional data in a study running for three years. We collected background data by questionnaire and measured blood pressure, heart rate, lipids, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and C-reactive protein (CRP). We examined arterial stiffness (central blood pressure, augmentation pressure and index, and pulse wave velocity) by the use of SphygmoCor® (AtCor Medical Pty Ltd, Sydney, Australia) and the carotid arteries by ultrasound. We assessed VO2max by bicycle ergometry. We applied linear and logistic regression to evaluate associations between total number of years in shift work and cardiovascular outcome measures. The day workers were older and had more pronounced arterial stiffness compared to the shift workers. Number of years as a shift worker was associated with increased carotid intima media thickness (max IMT) (B = 0.015, p = 0.009) and an elevated CRP (B = 0.06, p = 0.03). Within the normal range for this age group, VO2max was 41 (9) ml/kg/min. Rotating shift work including day and night shifts lasting up to 12 h and evening shifts are associated with CVD-risk factors. This could imply an increased risk for coronary heart disease and stroke among these workers. Therefore, preventive measures should be considered for these groups of workers in order to prevent such diseases.
Impact of Comorbid Chronic Conditions to Quality of Life among Elderly Patients with Diabetes Mellitus in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Huong Van , Tran Tung Thanh , Nguyen Cuong Tat , Tran Tung Hoang , Tran Bach Xuan , Latkin Carl A. , Ho Cyrus S.H. , Ho Roger C.M.
Published: February 2019

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major cause of disease burden in the elderly population. This study aimed to measure the quality of life (QOL) among patients with T2DM and the associations between co-morbidities and QOL. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 194 patients with T2DM. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) scores were used to indicate the clinically meaningful differences of comorbidities on quality of life. A Tobit regression was employed to find relationships between QOL and comorbidities. The mean scores of QOL domains were 50.8 (SD = 13.2) in physical, 62.4 (SD = 11.5) in psychological, 52.3 (SD = 10.2) in social relationship, and 64.3 (SD = 10.1) in environmental. Digestive and neuropsychiatric diseases had the strongest negative associations with physical QOL of patients. Neuropsychiatric diseases also had the biggest effect on psychological and environmental QOL. Meanwhile, in the social domain, respiratory diseases had the greatest effect. In conclusion, patients with T2DM struggled to perform physical functions. In addition, comorbidities significantly reduced the QOL of T2DM patients.
Ecosystem Spatial Changes and Driving Forces in the Bohai Coastal Zone
Authors: Cheng Min , Huang Binbin , Kong Lingqiao , Ouyang Zhiyun
Published: February 2019

Landscape change is an important aspect of coastal ecological conservation and has an essential influence on the sustainable development of the coastal economy. With remoting-sensing (RS) images between 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2015, using geographic information system (GIS) technologies, we examined ecosystem spatial changes in the Bohai coastal zone. Results showed that wetlands, mainly constituted by reservoirs/ponds, were the dominant landscape types. The urban ecosystem has the largest area increment and the fastest growth rate from 2000 to 2015. The quantification of landscape metrics revealed that spatial patterns have changed significantly, and the change direction of these ecosystems had moved toward increased heterogeneity and fragmentation. In addition, natural and socio-economic data were used to analyze the major driving forces triggering ecosystem spatial changes through redundancy analysis (RDA). The results revealed that the output of aquatic products (AQ) and population (Pop) were the main factors related to wetland ecosystem change. Pop and gross domestic product per capita (GDPpc) were closely related to the urban ecosystem change. Annual mean temperature (ATm), crop acreage (CA), and grain yield (GY) had positive correlations with the agriculture ecosystem changes.
The Oral Health of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Canada: A Mixed Methods Study Protocol
Authors: Macdonald Mary Ellen , Keboa Mark T. , Nurelhuda Nazik M. , Lawrence Herenia P. , Carnevale Franco , McNally Mary , Singhal Sonica , Ka Khady , Nicolau Belinda
Published: February 2019

Canada received over 140,000 refugees and asylum seekers between 2015 and 2017. This paper presents a protocol with the purpose of generating robust baseline data on the oral health of this population and build a long-term program of research to improve their access to dental care in Canada. The three-phase project uses a sequential mixed methods design, with the Behavioral Model for Vulnerable Populations as the conceptual framework. In Phase 1a, we will conduct five focus groups (six to eight participants per group) in community organizations in Ontario, Canada, to collect additional sociocultural data for the research program. In Phase 1b, we will use respondent-driven sampling to recruit 420 humanitarian migrants in Ontario and Quebec. Participants will complete a questionnaire capturing socio-demographic information, perceived general health, diet, smoking, oral care habits, oral symptoms, and satisfaction with oral health. They will then undergo dental examination for caries experience, periodontal health, oral pain, and traumatic dental injuries. In Phase 2, we will bring together all qualitative and quantitative results by means of a mixed methods matrix. Finally, in Phase 3, we will hold a one-day meeting with policy makers, dentists, and community leaders to refine interpretations and begin designing future oral health interventions for this population.
Household Fuel Use for Heating and Cooking and Respiratory Health in a Low-Income, South African Coastal Community
Authors: Buthelezi Sikhumbuzo Archibald , Kapwata Thandi , Wernecke Bianca , Webster Candice , Mathee Angela , Wright Caradee Yael
Published: February 2019

In low-income communities, non-electric fuel sources are typically the main cause of Household Air Pollution (HAP). In Umlazi, a South African coastal, informal settlement, households use electric- and non-electric (coal, wood, gas, paraffin) energy sources for cooking and heating. The study aimed to determine whether respiratory ill health status varied by fuel type use. Using a questionnaire, respondents reported on a range of socio-demographic characteristics, dwelling type, energy use for cooking and heating as well as respiratory health symptoms. Multivariate Poisson regression was used to obtain the adjusted Odds Ratios (ORs) for the effects of electric and non-electric energy sources on prevalence of respiratory infections considering potential confounding factors. Among the 245 households that participated, Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI, n = 27) were prevalent in respondents who used non-electric sources compared to electric sources for heating and cooking. There were statistically significant effects of non-electric sources for heating (adjusted OR = 3.6, 95% CI (confidence interval): 1.2–10.1, p < 0.05) and cooking (adjusted OR = 2.9, 95% CI: 1.1–7.9, p < 0.05) on prevalence of URTIs. There was a statistically significant effect of electric sources for heating (adjusted OR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.1–6.4, p < 0.05) on prevalence of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) but no evidence for relations between non-electric sources for heating and LRTIs, and electric or non-electric fuel use type for cooking and LRTIs. Energy switching, mixing or stacking could be common in these households that likely made use of multiple energy sources during a typical month depending on access to and availability of electricity, funds to pay for the energy source as well as other socio-economic or cultural factors. The importance of behaviour and social determinants of health in relation to HAP is emphasized.
Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Abdominal Wall as a Rare Complication of General Obstetric and Gynecologic Surgeries: 15 Years of Experience at a Large Academic Institution
Authors: Lai Yen-Ling , Hsu Heng-Cheng , Kuo Kuan-Ting , Chen Yu-Li , Chen Chi-An , Cheng Wen-Fang
Published: February 2019

The objective of this article was to report the clinicopathological characteristics, treatment modalities, and outcomes of patients with clear cell carcinoma (CCC) of the abdominal wall. Medical records of six patients diagnosed with CCC of the abdominal wall between May 2003 and May 2018 at the National Taiwan University Hospital were reviewed. All patients had prior obstetric or gynecologic surgeries. The primary clinical presentation was enlarging abdominal masses at previous surgical scars. Four patients underwent initial/primary surgeries with/without adjuvant chemotherapy. One patient received neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgical intervention and adjuvant chemotherapy, the other received chemotherapy and sequential radiotherapy without any surgical intervention. Two of four patients undergoing initial/primary surgeries had disease recurrence and the remaining two cases without initial surgery experienced disease progression during primary treatment. Inguinal lymph nodes were the most frequent sites of recurrence. In conclusion, previous obstetric or gynecologic surgery can be a risk factor for CCC of the abdominal wall. Complete resection of abdominal wall tumor and suspected intra-abdominal lesions with hysterectomy and bilateral inguinal lymph nodes dissection may be the primary treatment. Adjuvant chemotherapy would be considered for potential benefits. For patients without bilateral inguinal lymph nodes dissection, careful inguinal lymph node palpation during postoperative surveillance is necessary. More cases are still needed to elucidate the clinical management of this disease.
Shore Construction Detection by Automotive Radar for the Needs of Autonomous Surface Vehicle Navigation
Authors: Stateczny Andrzej , Kazimierski Witold , Burdziakowski Paweł , Motyl Weronika , Wisniewska Marta
Published: February 2019

Autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) are becoming more and more popular for performing hydrographic and navigational tasks. One of the key aspects of autonomous navigation is the need to avoid collisions with other objects, including shore structures. During a mission, an ASV should be able to automatically detect obstacles and perform suitable maneuvers. This situation also arises in near-coastal areas, where shore structures like berths or moored vessels can be encountered. On the other hand, detection of coastal structures may also be helpful for berthing operations. An ASV can be launched and moored automatically only if it can detect obstacles in its vicinity. One commonly used method for target detection by ASVs involves the use of laser rangefinders. The main disadvantage of this approach is that such systems perform poorly in conditions with bad visibility, such as in fog or heavy rain. Therefore, alternative methods need to be sought. An innovative approach to this task is presented in this paper, which describes the use of automotive three-dimensional radar on a floating platform. The goal of the study was to assess target detection possibilities based on a comparison with photogrammetric images obtained by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The scenarios considered focused on analyzing the possibility of detecting shore structures like berths, wooden jetties, and small houses, as well as natural objects like trees or other kinds of vegetation. The recording from the radar was integrated into a single complex radar image of shore targets. It was then compared with an orthophotomap prepared from AUV camera pictures, as well as with a map based on traditional land surveys. The possibility and accuracy of detection for various types of shore structure were statistically assessed. The results show good potential for the proposed approach—in general, objects can be detected using the radar—although there is a need for development of further signal processing algorithms.
A New, Score-Based Multi-Stage Matching Approach for Road Network Conflation in Different Road Patterns
Authors: Hacar Müslüm , Gökgöz Türkay
Published: February 2019

Road-matching processes establish links between multi-sourced road lines representing the same entities in the real world. Several road-matching methods have been developed in the last three decades. The main issue related to this process is selecting the most appropriate method. This selection depends on the data and requires a pre-process (i.e., accuracy assessment). This paper presents a new matching method for roads composed of different patterns. The proposed method matches road lines incrementally (i.e., from the most similar matching to the least similar). In the experimental testing, three road networks in Istanbul, Turkey, which are composed of tree, cellular, and hybrid patterns, provided by the municipality (authority), OpenStreetMap (volunteered), TomTom (private), and Basarsoft (private) were used. The similarity scores were determined using Hausdorff distance, orientation, sinuosity, mean perpendicular distance, mean length of triangle edges, and modified degree of connectivity. While the first four stages determined certain matches with regards to the scores, the last stage determined them with a criterion for overlapping areas among the buffers of the candidates. The results were evaluated with manual matching. According to the precision, recall, and F-value, the proposed method gives satisfactory results on different types of road patterns.
Accuracy Analysis of a 3D Model of Excavation, Created from Images Acquired with an Action Camera from Low Altitudes
Authors: Wierzbicki Damian , Nienaltowski Marcin
Published: February 2019

In the last few years, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) equipped with compact digital cameras, have become a cheap and efficient alternative to classic aerial photogrammetry and close-range photogrammetry. Low-altitude photogrammetry has great potential not only in the development of orthophoto maps but is also increasingly used in surveying and rapid mapping. This paper presents a practical aspect of the application of the custom homemade low-cost UAV, equipped with an action camera, to obtain images from low altitudes and develop a digital elevation model of the excavation. The conducted analyses examine the possibilities of using low-cost UAVs to deliver useful photogrammetric products. The experiments were carried out on a closed excavation in the town of Mince (north-eastern Poland). The flight over the examined area was carried out autonomously. A photogrammetric network was designed, and the reference areas in the mine were measured using the Global Navigation Satellite System-Real Time Kinematic (GNSS-RTK) method to perform accuracy analyses of the excavation 3D model. Representation of the created numerical terrain model was a dense point cloud. The average height difference between the generated dense point cloud and the reference model was within the range of 0.01–0.13 m. The difference between the volume of the excavation measured by the GNSS kinematic method and the volume measured on the basis of a dense point cloud was less than 1%. The obtained results show that the application of the low-cost UAV equipped with an action camera with a wide-angle lens, allows for obtaining high-accuracy images comparable to classic, compact digital cameras.
Intercropping Classification From GF-1 and GF-2 Satellite Imagery Using a Rotation Forest Based on an SVM
Authors: Liu Ping , Chen Xi
Published: February 2019

Remote sensing has been widely used in vegetation cover research but is rarely used for intercropping area monitoring. To investigate the efficiency of Chinese Gaofen satellite imagery, in this study the GF-1 and GF-2 of Moyu County south of the Tarim Basin were studied. Based on Chinese GF-1 and GF-2 satellite imagery features, this study has developed a comprehensive feature extraction and intercropping classification scheme. Textural features derived from a Gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) and vegetation features derived from multi-temporal GF-1 and GF-2 satellites were introduced and combined into three different groups. The rotation forest method was then adopted based on a Support Vector Machine (RoF-SVM), which offers the advantage of using an SVM algorithm and that boosts the diversity of individual base classifiers by a rotation forest. The combined spectral-textural-multitemporal features achieved the best classification result. The results were compared with those of the maximum likelihood classifier, support vector machine and random forest method. It is shown that the RoF-SVM algorithm for the combined spectral-textural-multitemporal features can effectively classify an intercropping area (overall accuracy of 86.87% and kappa coefficient of 0.78), and the classification result effectively eliminated salt and pepper noise. Furthermore, the GF-1 and GF-2 satellite images combined with spectral, textural, and multi-temporal features can provide sufficient information on vegetation cover located in an extremely complex and diverse intercropping area.
MRN (MRE11-RAD50-NBS1) Complex in Human Cancer and Prognostic Implications in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Situ Yiling , Chung Liping , Lee Cheok Soon , Ho Vincent
Published: February 2019

The MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 (MRN) complex has been studied in multiple cancers. The identification of MRN complex mutations in mismatch repair (MMR)-defective cancers has sparked interest in its role in colorectal cancer (CRC). To date, there is evidence indicating a relationship of MRN expression with reduced progression-free survival, although the significance of the MRN complex in the clinical setting remains controversial. In this review, we present an overview of the function of the MRN complex, its role in cancer progression, and current evidence in colorectal cancer. The evidence indicates that the MRN complex has potential utilisation as a biomarker and as a putative treatment target to improve outcomes of colorectal cancer.
A Three-Way Clustering Method Based on Ensemble Strategy and Three-Way Decision
Authors: Wang Pingxin , Liu Qiang , Xu Gang , Wang Kangkang
Published: February 2019

Three-way decision is a class of effective ways and heuristics commonly used in human problem solving and information processing. As an application of three-way decision in clustering, three-way clustering uses core region and fringe region to represent a cluster. The identified elements are assigned into the core region and the uncertain elements are assigned into the fringe region in order to reduce decision risk. In this paper, we propose a three-way clustering algorithm based on the ideas of cluster ensemble and three-way decision. In the proposed method, we use hard clustering methods to produce different clustering results and labels matching to align all clustering results to a given order. The intersection of the clusters with the same labels are regarded as the core region. The difference between the union and the intersection of the clusters with the same labels are regarded as the fringe region of the specific cluster. Therefore, a three-way clustering is naturally formed. The results on UCI data sets show that such a strategy is effective in improving the structure of clustering results.
Dynamic Top-K Interesting Subgraph Query on Large-Scale Labeled Graphs
Authors: Shan Xiaohuan , Jia Chunjie , Ding Linlin , Ding Xingyan , Song Baoyan
Published: February 2019

A labeled graph is a special structure with node identification capability, which is often used in information networks, biological networks, and other fields. The subgraph query is widely used as an important means of graph data analysis. As the size of the labeled graph increases and changes dynamically, users tend to focus on the high-match results that are of interest to them, and they want to take advantage of the relationship and number of results to get the results of the query quickly. For this reason, we consider the individual needs of users and propose a dynamic Top-K interesting subgraph query. This method establishes a novel graph topology feature index (GTSF index) including a node topology feature index (NTF index) and an edge feature index (EF index), which can effectively prune and filter the invalid nodes and edges that do not meet the restricted condition. The multi-factor candidate set filtering strategy is proposed based on the GTSF index, which can be further pruned to obtain fewer candidate sets. Then, we propose a dynamic Top-K interesting subgraph query method based on the idea of the sliding window to realize the dynamic modification of the matching results of the subgraph in the dynamic evolution of the label graph, to ensure real-time and accurate results of the query. In addition, considering the factors, such as frequent Input/Output (I/O) and network communication overheads, the optimization mechanism of the graph changes and an incremental maintenance strategy for the index are proposed to reduce the huge cost of redundant operation and global updates. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively deal with a dynamic Top-K interesting subgraph query on a large-scale labeled graph, at the same time the optimization mechanism of graph changes and the incremental maintenance strategy of the index can effectively reduce the maintenance overheads.
Synthesis of Trithia-Borinane Complexes Stabilized in Diruthenium Core: [(Cp*Ru)2(η1-S)(η1-CS){(CH2)2S3BR}] (R = H or SMe)
Authors: Saha Koushik , Kaur Urminder , Borthakur Rosmita , Ghosh Sundargopal
Published: February 2019

The thermolysis of arachno-1 [(Cp*Ru)2(B3H8)(CS2H)] in the presence of tellurium powder yielded a series of ruthenium trithia-borinane complexes: [(Cp*Ru)2(η1-S)(η1-CS){(CH2)2S3BH}] 2, [(Cp*Ru)2(η1-S)(η1-CS){(CH2)2S3B(SMe)}] 3, and [(Cp*Ru)2(η1-S)(η1-CS){(CH2)2S3BH}] 4. Compounds 2–4 were considered as ruthenium trithia-borinane complexes, where the central six-membered ring {C2BS3} adopted a boat conformation. Compounds 2–4 were similar to our recently reported ruthenium diborinane complex [(Cp*Ru){(η2-SCHS)CH2S2(BH2)2}]. Unlike diborinane, where the central six-membered ring {CB2S3} adopted a chair conformation, compounds 2–4 adopted a boat conformation. In an attempt to convert arachno-1 into a closo or nido cluster, we pyrolyzed it in toluene. Interestingly, the reaction led to the isolation of a capped butterfly cluster, [(Cp*Ru)2(B3H5)(CS2H2)] 5. All the compounds were characterized by 1H, 11B{1H}, and 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The molecular structures of complexes 2, 3, and 5 were also determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis.
Molecularly Engineered Lithium–Chromium Alkoxide for Selective Synthesis of LiCrO2 and Li2CrO4 Nanomaterials
Authors: Ojelere Olusola , Graf David , Mathur Sanjay
Published: February 2019

Achieving control over the phase-selective synthesis of mixed metal oxide materials remains a challenge to the synthetic chemist due to diffusion-driven growth, which necessitates the search for new compounds with pre-existent chemical bonds between the phase-forming elements. We report here a simple solvothermal process to fabricate LiCrO2 and Li2CrO4 nanoparticles from bimetallic single-source precursors, demonstrating the distinctive influence of molecular design and calcination conditions on the resulting nanomaterials. The chemical identity of [Li2Cr(OtBu)4Cl(THF)2] (1) and [LiCr(OtBu)2(PyCH=COCF3)2(THF)2] (2) was unambiguously established in the solid state by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, revealing the formation of a coordination polymeric chain in compound 1, whereas electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) studies revealed a monomeric structure in solution. TEM analysis of synthesized LiCrO2 nanoparticles showed nearly uniform particles size of approximately 20 nm. The sensitivity of the LiCrO2 phase towards oxidation was investigated by X-ray diffraction, revealing the formation of the stable Li2CrO4 after calcination in air.
Cell-Free DNA and CXCL10 Derived from Bronchoalveolar Lavage Predict Lung Transplant Survival
Authors: Yang Joshua Y.C. , Verleden Stijn E. , Zarinsefat Arya , Vanaudenaerde Bart M. , Vos Robin , Verleden Geert M. , Sarwal Reuben D. , Sigdel Tara K. , Liberto Juliane M. , Damm Izabella , Watson Drew , Sarwal Minnie M.
Published: February 2019

Standard methods for detecting chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) and rejection have poor sensitivity and specificity and have conventionally required bronchoscopies and biopsies. Plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) has been shown to be increased in various types of allograft injury in transplant recipients and CXCL10 has been reported to be increased in the lung tissue of patients undergoing CLAD. This study used a novel cfDNA and CXCL10 assay to evaluate the noninvasive assessment of CLAD phenotype and prediction of survival from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. A total of 60 BAL samples (20 with bronchiolitis obliterans (BOS), 20 with restrictive allograft syndrome (RAS), and 20 with stable allografts (STA)) were collected from 60 unique lung transplant patients; cfDNA and CXCL10 were measured by the ELISA-based KIT assay. Median cfDNA was significantly higher in BOS patients (6739 genomic equivalents (GE)/mL) versus STA (2920 GE/mL) and RAS (4174 GE/mL) (p < 0.01 all comparisons). Likelihood ratio tests revealed a significant association of overall survival with cfDNA (p = 0.0083), CXCL10 (p = 0.0146), and the interaction of cfDNA and CXCL10 (p = 0.023) based on multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression. Dichotomizing patients based on the median cfDNA level controlled for the mean level of CXCL10 revealed an over two-fold longer median overall survival time in patients with low levels of cfDNA. The KIT assay could predict allograft survival with superior performance compared with traditional biomarkers. These data support the pursuit of larger prospective studies to evaluate the predictive performance of cfDNA and CXCL10 prior to lung allograft failure.
Predictors of Uric Acid Stones: Mean Stone Density, Stone Heterogeneity Index, and Variation Coefficient of Stone Density by Single-Energy Non-Contrast Computed Tomography and Urinary pH
Authors: Kim Jong Chan , Cho Kang Su , Kim Do Kyung , Chung Doo Yong , Jung Hae Do , Lee Joo Yong
Published: February 2019

We analyzed the capacities of pertinent parameters (determined by single-energy non-contrast computed tomography [NCCT]) and urinary pH to predict uric acid stones. We reviewed the medical records of 501 patients whose stones were removed surgically or passed spontaneously between December 2014 and April 2016. Qualifying participants (n = 420) were stratified by the nature of the stone (calcium oxalate, uric acid, or infectious). Based on NCCT, we determined maximal stone length (MSL), mean stone density (MSD), and stone heterogeneity index (SHI) using Hounsfield units (HU) and calculated the variant coefficient of stone density (VCSD = SHI/MSD × 100). Urinary pH was also ascertained. Mean patient age was 55.55 ± 15.46 years. MSD (448.59 ± 173.21 HU), SHI (100.81 ± 77.37 HU), and VCSD (22.58 ± 10.55) proved to be significantly lower in uric acid versus other types of stones, as did urinary pH (5.33 ± 0.56; all p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves depicting predictability of uric acid stones yielded area under ROC curve (AUC) values for MSD, SHI, VCSD, and urinary pH of 0.806 (95% CI: 0.761–0.850), 0.893 (95% CI: 0.855–0.931), 0.782 (95% CI: 0.726–0.839), and 0.797 (95% CI: 0.749–0.846), respectively, with corresponding cutpoints of 572.3 HU, 140.4 HU, 25.79, and 6.0. Among these four parameters, SHI was verifiably (DeLong’s test) the most effective predictor of uric acid stones (all p < 0.001). Compared with MSD, VCSD, and urinary pH, SHI may better predict uric acid stones, using a cutpoint of 140.4 HU.
Current Progress in Uterus Transplantation Research in Asia
Authors: Kisu Iori , Liu Yu , Chen Gaowen , Song Min Jong , Chang Cherry Yin-Yi , Koon Tan Hak , Banno Kouji , Aoki Daisuke
Published: February 2019

Uterus transplantation (UTx) is now a possible approach for women with absolute uterine factor infertility to deliver a child, following the first successful delivery by Brännström et al. in Sweden in September 2014. This remarkable achievement attracted major attention worldwide and caused many countries to prepare for UTx, including countries in Asia. To date, three groups have performed UTx in humans in Asia, and many others are aiming for the clinical application of UTx with accumulation of basic experimental data. Therefore, it is likely that UTx will expand rapidly in Asia in the near future, although this will depend on ethical, social and religious views in each country. With this background, herein we summarize the current progress of UTx in East, Southeast and South Asia, with the purpose of increasing understanding of the current status of basic and clinical UTx research in each country and sharing progress and knowledge to ensure future development of UTx research in Asia.
The Importance of the Financial Derivatives Markets to Economic Development in the World’s Four Major Economies
Authors: Vo Duc Hong , Huynh Son Van , Vo Anh The , Ha Dao Thi-Thieu
Published: February 2019

Over the past three decades, China and India have attained economic power close to that of Japan and the U.S. During this period, the importance of the derivatives market within the financial market has been widely recognized. However, little supporting evidence is available on its economic effects. This paper investigates the dynamic relationship between the derivatives markets and economic development in these four large economies, which we consider together as the CIJU (China, India, Japan, and the U.S.) group. We use a Granger-causality test in the framework of a vector error correction model (VECM) to examine this causal and dynamic relation with data for the period 1998Q1 to 2017Q4. Derivative markets are found to positively contribute to economic development in the short run in the U.S., Japan, and India, but the effect disappears in the long run. In China, the derivatives market has a negative effect on economic development in the short run. However, in the long run, we observe a positive effect from the derivatives market on economic development based on two long-run estimation techniques, namely, dynamic ordinary least squares and fully modified ordinary least squares. Also, the development of derivative markets causes growth volatility in India, both in the short run and long run.
Adolescent ELLs Improve Their Academic English while Learning about the UN Online
Authors: Eisenstein Ebsworth Miriam , Cai Chencen , McCoy Lauren
Published: February 2019

This action research project aimed at evaluating and revising Actionthroughwords (ATW), an online course on language learning through content for high school English language learners. Our multifaceted purpose is to help English language learners in an English language arts class to enhance their academic English language and literacy, while learning online about the work of the UN for health and peace worldwide. A teacher and nineteen students in a public high school bilingual program acted as learner-consultants, with a shift of learners’ roles to one of authority and engagement. Using a mixed design, data came from questionnaires, classroom observation, and interviews with the teacher and eight of her students. All participants responded affirmatively to the ATW site and expressed appreciation not only for the content but also for focused activities to enhance vocabulary development and grammatical awareness. Results showed students’ view of the UN was somewhat positive to begin with and became more positive over time. Participants recommended revision of ATW to make content more accessible through scaffolding and first language support and to offer additional games and videos appropriate for teenagers’ interests and modes of learning. Differentiated instructional materials and strategies integrated with the school curriculum were also suggested for future implementation of the course.
Do Exostoses Correlate with Contact Disfunctions? A Case Study of a Maxillary Exostosis
Authors: Valigi Maria Cristina , Logozzo Silvia
Published: February 2019

A maxillary exostosis is a benign overgrowth of bone that occurs on the outer or facial surface of the maxilla and is usually located near the premolar or molar teeth. This paper investigates the correlation between the presence and growth of jaw exostoses and the oral mechanics of contact. For this purpose, a case study of an upper jawbone exostosis of a female patient was considered. 3D models of the patient’s cranial bones were extracted from 2D computerized tomography (CT) data and were analyzed by proper software. A contact congruence evaluation based on the Winkler contact model was performed, and results were presented in terms of indentation maps and load distributions. Results were correlated with the theory of bone remodelling by Wolff.
(R,S)-5-(4-Chlorophenyl)-3-{(E)-2-[(R,S)-2,6,6-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-yl]vinyl}-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole-1-carboximidamide Hydrochloride
Authors: Carvalho Michele , Pizzuti Lucas
Published: February 2019

Pyrazoline and amidine motifs are important in medicinal chemistry due to their broad spectrum of bioactivities. This work’s goal was to synthesize a new hybrid amidino pyrazoline from terpenyl chalcone. The chosen method consists of making the terpenyl chalcone react with aminoguanidine hydrochloride in the presence of potassium hydroxide using ethanol as solvent. The reaction was carried out under ultrasonic irradiation. The resulting terpenyl amidino pyrazoline was isolated after separation in a silica-gel chromatographic column in 86% of yield. The product structure was confirmed by the analysis of the high resolution mass, 1H and 13C-NMR spectra. The data was consistent with the expected structure. In summary, the method was efficient for the synthesis of a new hybrid terpenyl amidino pyrazolines under sonochemical conditions.
Influence of Prior Martensite on Bainite Transformation, Microstructures, and Mechanical Properties in Ultra-Fine Bainitic Steel
Authors: Guo Hui , Feng Xianying , Zhao Aimin , Li Qiang , Ma Jun
Published: February 2019

A multiphase microstructure comprising of different volume fractions of prior martensite and ultra-fine bainite (bainitic ferrite and retained austenite) was obtained by quenching to certain temperatures, followed by isothermal bainitic transformation. The effect of the prior martensite transformation on the bainitic transformation behavior, microstructures, and mechanical properties were discussed. The results showed that the prior martensite accelerated the subsequent low-temperature bainite transformation, and the incubation period and completion time of the bainite reaction were significantly shortened. This phenomenon was attributed to the enhanced nucleation ratio caused by the introduced strain in austenite, due to the formation of prior martensite and a carbon partitioning between the prior martensite and retained austenite. Moreover, the prior martensite could influence the crystal growth direction of bainite ferrite, refine bainitic ferrite plates, and reduce the dimension of blocky retained austenite, all of which were responsible for improving the mechanical properties of the ultra-fine bainitic steel. When the content of the prior martensite reached 15%, the investigated steels had the best performance, which were 1800 MPa and 21% for the tensile strength and elongation, respectively. Unfortunately, the increased content of the prior martensite could lead to a worsening of the impact toughness.
Lexicographic Orders of Intuitionistic Fuzzy Values and Their Relationships
Authors: Feng Feng , Liang Meiqi , Fujita Hamido , Yager Ronald , Liu Xiaoyan
Published: February 2019

Intuitionistic fuzzy multiple attribute decision making deals with the issue of ranking alternatives based on the decision information quantified in terms of intuitionistic fuzzy values. Lexicographic orders can serve as efficient and indispensable tools for comparing intuitionistic fuzzy values. This paper introduces a number of lexicographic orders by means of several measures such as the membership, non-membership, score, accuracy and expectation score functions. Some equivalent characterizations and illustrative examples are provided, from which the relationships among these lexicographic orders are ascertained. We also propose three different compatible properties of preorders with respect to the algebraic sum and scalar product operations of intuitionistic fuzzy values, and apply them to the investigation of compatible properties of various lexicographic orders. In addition, a benchmark problem regarding risk investment is further explored to give a comparative analysis of different lexicographic orders and highlight the practical value of the obtained results for solving real-world decision-making problems.
On Generalized D-Conformal Deformations of Certain Almost Contact Metric Manifolds
Authors: Özdemir Nülifer , Aktay Şirin , Solgun Mehmet
Published: February 2019

In this work, we consider almost contact metric manifolds. We investigate the generalized D-conformal deformations of nearly K-cosymplectic, quasi-Sasakian and β -Kenmotsu manifolds. The new Levi–Civita covariant derivative of the new metric corresponding to deformed nearly K-cosymplectic, quasi-Sasakian and β -Kenmotsu manifolds are obtained. Under some restrictions, deformed nearly K-cosymplectic, quasi-Sasakian and β -Kenmotsu manifolds are obtained. Then, the scalar curvature of these three classes of deformed manifolds are analyzed.
Extraction of Blood Vessels in Fundus Images of Retina through Hybrid Segmentation Approach
Authors: Sundaram Ramakrishnan , KS Ravichandran , Jayaraman Premaladha , B Venkatraman
Published: February 2019

A hybrid segmentation algorithm is proposed is this paper to extract the blood vessels from the fundus image of retina. Fundus camera captures the posterior surface of the eye and the captured images are used to diagnose diseases, like Diabetic Retinopathy, Retinoblastoma, Retinal haemorrhage, etc. Segmentation or extraction of blood vessels is highly required, since the analysis of vessels is crucial for diagnosis, treatment planning, and execution of clinical outcomes in the field of ophthalmology. It is derived from the literature review that no unique segmentation algorithm is suitable for images of different eye-related diseases and the degradation of the vessels differ from patient to patient. If the blood vessels are extracted from the fundus images, it will make the diagnosis process easier. Hence, this paper aims to frame a hybrid segmentation algorithm exclusively for the extraction of blood vessels from the fundus image. The proposed algorithm is hybridized with morphological operations, bottom hat transform, multi-scale vessel enhancement (MSVE) algorithm, and image fusion. After execution of the proposed segmentation algorithm, the area-based morphological operator is applied to highlight the blood vessels. To validate the proposed algorithm, the results are compared with the ground truth of the High-Resolution Fundus (HRF) images dataset. Upon comparison, it is inferred that the proposed algorithm segments the blood vessels with more accuracy than the existing algorithms.
Applying Machine Learning to the Phenomenological Flow Stress Modeling of TNM-B1
Authors: Stendal Johan A. , Bambach Markus , Eisentraut Mark , Sizova Irina , Weiß Sabine
Published: February 2019

Data-driven or machine learning approaches are increasingly being used in material science and research. Specifically, machine learning has been implemented in the fields of materials discovery, prediction of phase diagrams and material modelling. In this work, the application of machine learning to the traditional phenomenological flow stress modelling of the titanium aluminide (TiAl) alloy TNM-B1 (Ti-43.5Al-4Nb-1Mo-0.1B) is investigated. Three model types were developed, analyzed and compared; a physics-based phenomenological model (PM) originally developed for steel by Cingara and McQueen, a purely data-driven machine learning model (MLM), and a hybrid model (HM), which uses characteristic points predicted by a learning algorithm as input for the phenomenological model. The same amount of data was used to both fit the PM and train the MLM and HM. The models were analyzed and compared based on the accuracy of their predictions, development and computing time, and their ability to predict on interpolated and extrapolated inputs. The results revealed that for the same amount of experimental data, the MLM was more accurate than the PM. In addition, the MLM was better able to capture the characteristic peak stress in the TNM-B1 the flow curves, and could be developed and computed faster. Furthermore, the MLM was able to make realistic predictions for inputs outside the experimental data used for training. The HM showed comparable accuracy to the PM for the experimental conditions. However, the HM was able to produce a better fit for input conditions outside the training data.
Effect of Iron Impurities on Magnetic Properties of Nanosized CeO2 and Ce-Based Compounds
Authors: Jiraskova Yvonna , Bursik Jiri , Janos Pavel , Lunacek Jiri , Chrobak Artur , Zivotsky Ondrej
Published: February 2019

CeO2 samples prepared by three technological procedures from the same cerium source, namely cerium (III) nitrate hexahydrate, are studied from the viewpoint of structure, chemical and phase composition, and micro- and macro-magnetic properties. The scanning and transmission electron microscopies completed by energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis yield nano-structural natures and homogenous chemical compositions of the ceria samples, confirmed also by X-ray diffraction. The diamagnetic, paramagnetic, and ferromagnetic phases in all samples follow from an analysis of the room- and low-temperature measurements of hysteresis loops. Iron impurities in ppm amounts are clearly detected by 57Fe Mössbauer spectrometry not only in the ceria samples but also in the selected input chemicals used for their preparation. This contributes to the explanation of the magnetic behaviour of nanosized ceria.
Influence of Mechanical Anisotropy on Micro-Voids and Ductile Fracture Onset and Evolution in High-Strength Low Alloyed Steels
Authors: Iob Francesco , Cortese Luca , Di Schino Andrea , Coppola Tommaso
Published: February 2019

In this paper results of a wide and innovative mechanical assessment, that was performed on large diameter spiral line pipes for gas transportation, are reported. The anisotropic material hardening has been characterized by tensile (smooth and notched specimens), torsion, and compression tests. Tests were performed in the pipe of the pipe with specimens machined along several orientations, taking into account the pipe through thickness direction. The influence of different triaxiality stress states on anisotropic behavior of the material have also been analyzed by means of tensile tests on notched specimens. After the experiments, the material was assessed by measuring the void distribution on the material as is, and on many deformed and fractured specimens, including tensile tests at different triaxiality, and torsion tests. The results showed that in such a class of materials, the experimental void fraction is fully negligible and not related to the applied plastic strain, even at the fracture proximity. As a consequence it can be concluded that, the plastic softening hypothesis may be dropped and damage due to void evolution hypothesis is not adequate.
Numerical Modeling Rolling Contact Problem and Elasticity Deformation of Rolling Die under Hot Milling
Authors: Tolcha Mesay , Altenbach Holm
Published: February 2019

In metalworking, rolling is a metal-forming process in which slab is passed through one or more pairs of the rolling dies to reduce the thickness and to make the thickness uniform. Modeling of rolling die contact with the slab primarily needs to describe the Tribology of contact phenomena. The central concern of numerical modeling is used in this work to indicate a set of equations, derived from the contact principle, that transfer the physical event into the mathematical equations. Continuum rolling contact phenomena is considered to explain how a contact region is formed between rolling die and slab and how the tangential force is distributed over the contact area with coefficient of friction. At the end, elasticity stress behavior of rolling die contact with the slab for a number of cyclic loads is modeled. The model includes new proposed constitutive equations for discontinuity of the velocity–pressure distribution in rolling contact from the entry side to exit side of the neutral point. To verify the model, finite element simulation and experimental data from the literature are considered. The results show good agreement with finite element simulation and experimental data.
Volume-Averaged Modeling of Multiphase Flow Phenomena during Alloy Solidification
Authors: Wu Menghuai , Ludwig Andreas , Kharicha Abdellah
Published: February 2019

The most recent developments and applications in volume-averaged modeling of solidification processes have been reviewed. Since the last reviews of this topic by Beckermann and co-workers [Applied Mech. Rev. 1993, p. 1; Annual Rev. Heat Transfer 1995, p. 115], major progress in this area has included (i) the development of a mixed columnar-equiaxed solidification model; (ii) further consideration of moving crystals and crystal dendritic morphology; and (iii) the model applications to analyze the formation mechanisms of macrosegregation, as-cast structure, shrinkage cavity and porosity in different casting processes. The capacity of computer hardware is still a limiting factor. However, many calculation examples, as verified by the laboratory casting experiments, or even by the casting processes at a small industrial scale, show great application potential. Following the trend of developments in computer hardware (projection according to Moore’s law), a full 3D calculation of casting at the industry scale with the multiphase volume-averaged solidification models will become practically feasible in the foreseeable future.