bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Improved Generalized Method for Evaluation of Parameters, Modeling, and Simulation of Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Jha Vandana , Triar Uday Shankar
Published: December 2017

This paper proposes an improved generalized method for evaluation of parameters, modeling, and simulation of photovoltaic modules. A new concept “Level of Improvement” has been proposed for evaluating unknown parameters of the nonlinear I-V equation of the single-diode model of PV module at any environmental condition, taking the manufacturer-specified data at Standard Test Conditions as inputs. The main contribution of the new concept is the improvement in the accuracy of values of evaluated parameters up to various levels and is based on mathematical equations of PV modules. The proposed evaluating method is implemented by MATLAB programming and, for demonstration, by using the values of parameters of the I-V equation obtained from programming results, a PV module model is build with MATLAB. The parameters evaluated by the proposed technique are validated with the datasheet values of six different commercially available PV modules (thin film, monocrystalline, and polycrystalline) at Standard Test Conditions and Nominal Operating Cell Temperature Conditions. The module output characteristics generated by the proposed method are validated with experimental data of FS-270 PV module. The effects of variation of ideality factor and resistances on output characteristics are also studied. The superiority of the proposed technique is proved.
Inference Engine in an Intelligent Ship Course-Keeping System
Authors: Borkowski Piotr
Published: December 2017

The article presents an original design of an expert system, whose function is to automatically stabilize ship’s course. The focus is put on the inference engine, a mechanism that consists of two functional components. One is responsible for the construction of state space regions, implemented on the basis of properly processed signals recorded by sensors from the input and output of an object. The other component is responsible for generating a control decision based on the knowledge obtained in the first module. The computing experiments described herein prove the effective and correct operation of the proposed system.
A Semianalytical Model for Multiple-Fractured Horizontal Wells with SRV in Tight Oil Reservoirs
Authors: Wang Jiahang , Wang Xiaodong , Dong Wenxiu
Published: December 2017

The paper developed a new semianalytical model for multiple-fractured horizontal wells (MFHWs) with stimulated reservoir volume (SRV) in tight oil reservoirs by combining source function theory with boundary element idea. The model is first validated by both analytical and numerical model. Then new type curves are established. Finally, the effects of SRV shape, SRV size, SRV permeability, and parameters of hydraulic fractures are discussed. Results show that SRV has great influence on the pressure response of MFHWs; the parameters of fractures, such as fracture distribution, length, and conductivity, also can affect the transient pressure of MFHWs. One novelty of this model is to consider the nonlinear flow around hydraulic fracture tips. The other novelty is the ability to model the shape of the SRV, production behavior of different fractures, and interfaces. Compared to numerical and analytic methods, this model can not only reduce extensive computing processing but also show high accuracy.
A Clinical Mentorship and Quality Improvement Program to Support Health Center Nurses Manage Type 2 Diabetes in Rural Rwanda
Authors: Ndayisaba Aphrodis , Harerimana Emmanuel , Borg Ryan , Miller Ann C. , Kirk Catherine M. , Hann Katrina , Hirschhorn Lisa R. , Manzi Anatole , Ngoga Gedeon , Dusabeyezu Symaque , Mutumbira Cadet , Mpunga Tharcisse , Ngamije Patient , Nkikabahizi Fulgence , Mubiligi Joel , Niyonsenga Simon Pierre , Bavuma Charlotte , Park Paul H.
Published: December 2017

Introduction. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is rapidly rising in SSA. Interventions are needed to support the decentralization of services to improve and expand access to care. We describe a clinical mentorship and quality improvement program that connected nurse mentors with nurse mentees to support the decentralization of type 2 diabetes care in rural Rwanda. Methods. This is a descriptive study. Routinely collected data from patients with type 2 diabetes cared for at rural health center NCD clinics between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2015, were extracted from EMR system. Data collected as part of the clinical mentorship program were extracted from an electronic database. Summary statistics are reported. Results. The patient population reflects the rural settings, with low rates of traditional NCD risk factors: 5.6% of patients were current smokers, 11.0% were current consumers of alcohol, and 11.9% were obese. Of 263 observed nurse mentee-patient encounters, mentor and mentee agreed on diagnosis 94.4% of the time. Similarly, agreement levels were high for medication, laboratory exam, and follow-up plans, at 86.3%, 87.1%, and 92.4%, respectively. Conclusion. Nurses that receive mentorship can adhere to a type 2 diabetes treatment protocol in rural Rwanda primary health care settings.
Impact of Mézières Rehabilitative Method in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Paolucci Teresa , Zangrando Federico , Piccinini Giulia , Deidda Laura , Basile Rossella , Bruno Enrico , Buzi Emigen , Mannocci Alice , Tirinelli Franca , Haggiag Shalom , Lispi Ludovico , Villani Ciro , Saraceni Vincenzo M.
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of Mézières method in improving trunk flexibility of the back muscles and balance in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Materials and Methods. Thirty-six patients were randomized into 2 groups: the Mézières treatment group and the control group (home exercise group). The primary outcome was the improvement in balance per the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the trunk flexibility of the back for the anterior flexion trunk test. Also, we evaluated pain, gait balance for the Functional Gait Assessment (FGA), disease-related disability for the Modified Parkinson’s Activity Scale and the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), the quality of life, and the functional exercise capacity. All the measures were evaluated at baseline (T0), at the end of the rehabilitative program (T1), and at the 12-week follow-up (T2). Results. In the Mézières group, the BBS (p<.001) and trunk flexion test (p<.001) improved significantly at T1 and remained the same at T2. Between groups, significant changes were reported in FGA (p=.027) and UPDRS Total (p=.007) at T1 and in FGA (p=.03) at T2. Conclusion. The Mézières approach is efficacious in improving the flexibility of the trunk and balance in PD patients.
Effect of Vitamin D Receptor Activation on the AGE/RAGE System and Myeloperoxidase in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Torino Claudia , Pizzini Patrizia , Cutrupi Sebastiano , Tripepi Rocco , Vilasi Antonio , Tripepi Giovanni , Mallamaci Francesca , Zoccali Carmine
Published: December 2017

Vitamin D receptor (VDR) activation has been reported to increase circulating levels of the advanced glycation end products (AGE) and their decoy receptor (RAGE). However, until now, the effect of VDR activation on AGE and RAGE has not been tested in the setting of a randomized, double‐blind clinical trial. We have therefore analyzed the effect of VDR activation by paricalcitol on pentosidine, S100A12/ENRAGE, and RAGE and on established biomarkers of oxidative stress like myeloperoxidase in CKD patients in the PENNY trial. At baseline, human S100A12/ENRAGE, RAGE, and myeloperoxidase, but not pentosidine, were intercorrelated, and the association between S100A12/ENRAGE and myeloperoxidase (r = 0.71, P < 0.001) was the strongest among these correlations. Paricalcitol failed to modify biomarkers of the AGE/RAGE system and myeloperoxidase in unadjusted and adjusted analyses by the generalized linear model (GLM). No effect modification by other risk factors was registered. Paricalcitol does not modify biomarkers of the AGE/RAGE system and myeloperoxidase in CKD patients. The apparent increase in RAGE levels by VDR activation reported in previous uncontrolled studies is most likely due to confounding factors rather than to VDR activation per se. This trial is registered with NCT01680198.
A Novel Memetic Algorithm Based on Decomposition for Multiobjective Flexible Job Shop Scheduling Problem
Authors: Wang Chun , Ji Zhicheng , Wang Yan
Published: December 2017

A novel multiobjective memetic algorithm based on decomposition (MOMAD) is proposed to solve multiobjective flexible job shop scheduling problem (MOFJSP), which simultaneously minimizes makespan, total workload, and critical workload. Firstly, a population is initialized by employing an integration of different machine assignment and operation sequencing strategies. Secondly, multiobjective memetic algorithm based on decomposition is presented by introducing a local search to MOEA/D. The Tchebycheff approach of MOEA/D converts the three‐objective optimization problem to several single‐objective optimization subproblems, and the weight vectors are grouped by K‐means clustering. Some good individuals corresponding to different weight vectors are selected by the tournament mechanism of a local search. In the experiments, the influence of three different aggregation functions is first studied. Moreover, the effect of the proposed local search is investigated. Finally, MOMAD is compared with eight state‐of‐the‐art algorithms on a series of well‐known benchmark instances and the experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms or at least has comparative performance to the other algorithms.
Robustness of Tomato Quality Evaluation Using a Portable Vis-SWNIRS for Dry Matter and Colour
Authors: Acharya U. K. , Subedi P. P. , Walsh K. B.
Published: December 2017

The utility of a handheld visible-short wave near infrared spectrophotometer utilising an interactance optical geometry was assessed in context of the noninvasive determination of intact tomato dry matter content, as an index of final ripe soluble solids content, and colouration, as an index of maturation to guide a decision to harvest. Partial least squares regression model robustness was demonstrated through the use of populations of different harvest dates or growing conditions for calibration and prediction. Dry matter predictions of independent populations of fruit achievedR2ranging from 0.86 to 0.92 and bias from −0.14 to 0.03%. For a CIEa⁎colour model, predictionR2ranged from 0.85 to 0.96 and bias from −1.18 to −0.08. Updating the calibration model with new samples to extend range in the attribute of interest and in sample matrix is key to better prediction performance. The handheld spectrometry system is recommended for practical implementation in tomato cultivation.
Sharp Bounds for the General Sum-Connectivity Indices of Transformation Graphs
Authors: Wang Haiying , Liu Jia-Bao , Wang Shaohui , Gao Wei , Akhter Shehnaz , Imran Muhammad , Farahani Mohammad R.
Published: December 2017

Given a graph G, the general sum-connectivity index is defined as χα(G)=∑uv∈E(G)dGu+dGvα, where dG(u) (or dG(v)) denotes the degree of vertex u (or v) in the graph G and α is a real number. In this paper, we obtain the sharp bounds for general sum-connectivity indices of several graph transformations, including the semitotal-point graph, semitotal-line graph, total graph, and eight distinct transformation graphs Guvw, where u,v,w∈+,-.
Dispersed Two-Phase Flow Modelling for Nuclear Safety in the NEPTUNE_CFD Code
Authors: Mimouni Stephane , Benguigui William , Fleau Solène , Foissac Arnaud , Guingo Mathieu , Hassanaly Mickael , Lavieville Jérôme , Malet Jeanne , Méchitoua Namane , Mérigoux Nicolas , Vincent Stéphane
Published: December 2017

The objective of this paper is to give an overview of the capabilities of Eulerian bifluid approach to meet the needs of studies for nuclear safety regarding hydrogen risk, boiling crisis, and pipes and valves maintenance. The Eulerian bifluid approach has been implemented in a CFD code named NEPTUNE_CFD. NEPTUNE_CFD is a three-dimensional multifluid code developed especially for nuclear reactor applications by EDF, CEA, AREVA, and IRSN. The first set of models is dedicated to wall vapor condensation and spray modelling. Moreover, boiling crisis remains a major limiting phenomenon for the analysis of operation and safety of both nuclear reactors and conventional thermal power systems. The paper aims at presenting the generalization of the previous DNB model and its validation against 1500 validation cases. The modelling and the numerical simulation of cavitation phenomena are of relevant interest in many industrial applications, especially regarding pipes and valves maintenance where cavitating flows are responsible for harmful acoustics effects. In the last section, models are validated against experimental data of pressure profiles and void fraction visualisations obtained downstream of an orifice with the EPOCA facility (EDF R&D). Finally, a multifield approach is presented as an efficient tool to run all models together.
Cloning, Expression, and Immunogenicity of Fimbrial-F17A Subunit Vaccine againstEscherichia coliIsolated from Bovine Mastitis
Authors: Chen Wei , Liu Yongxia , Yin Jinhua , Deng Youtian , Ali Tariq , Zhang Ju , Cheng Jia , ur Rahman Sadeeq , Gao Jian , Han Bo
Published: December 2017

There is a need to identify and select new promising immunodominant antigens that have the ability to provide protective immunity againstE. colicausing bovine mastitis. Recently we showed thatf17awas found to be the most prevalent and crucial virulent factor among the pathogenicE. coliisolated from bovine mastitis. Here, in this report, the recombinant F17A based subunit vaccine adjuvant with MF59 was tested for immunogenicity againstE. coliin a murine model. The vaccinated mice did not show any abnormal behavioral changes and histopathological lesions after vaccination. The specific antibody level against F17A was significantly higher in MF59-adjuvant-group, and also lasted for longer duration with a significant(P<0.01)production level of IgG1 and IgG2a. Moreover, we noted higher survival rate in mice injected with F17A-MF59-adjuvant group after challenging with the clinicalE. colistrain.Our findings of bacterial clearance test revealed that elimination rate from liver, spleen, and kidney in MF59-adjuvant-group was significantly higher than the control group. Finally, the proportion of CD4+T cells was increased, while CD8+ was decreased in MF59-adjuvant group. In conclusion, the current study reveals the capability of F17A-MF59 as a potential vaccine candidate against pathogenicE. colicausing mastitis in dairy animals.
Finite Element Method of BBM-Burgers Equation with Dissipative Term Based on Adaptive Moving Mesh
Authors: Lu Changna , Gao Qianqian , Fu Chen , Yang Hongwei
Published: December 2017

A finite element model is proposed for the Benjamin-Bona-Mahony-Burgers (BBM-Burgers) equation with a high-order dissipative term; the scheme is based on adaptive moving meshes. The model can be applied to the equations with spatial-time mixed derivatives and high-order derivative terms. In this scheme, new variables are needed to make the equation become a coupled system, and then the linear finite element method is used to discretize the spatial derivative and the fifth-order Radau IIA method is used to discretize the time derivative. The simulations of 1D and 2D BBM-Burgers equations with high-order dissipative terms are presented in numerical examples. The numerical results show that the method keeps a second-order convergence in space and provides a smaller error than that based on the fixed mesh, which demonstrates the effectiveness and feasibility of the finite element method based on the moving mesh. We also study the effect of the dissipative terms with different coefficients in the equation; by numerical simulations, we find that the dissipative termuxxplays a more important role thanuxxxxin dissipation.
Comparative Analysis of METRIC Model and Atmometer Methods for Estimating Actual Evapotranspiration
Authors: Reyes-González Arturo , Kjaersgaard Jeppe , Trooien Todd , Hay Christopher , Ahiablame Laurent
Published: December 2017

Accurate estimation of crop evapotranspiration (ET) is a key factor in agricultural water management including irrigated agriculture. The objective of this study was to compare ET estimated from the satellite-based remote sensing METRIC model to in situ atmometer readings. Atmometer readings were recorded from three sites in eastern South Dakota every morning between 8:15 and 8:30 AM for the duration of the 2016 growing season. Seven corresponding clear sky images from Landsat 7 and Landsat 8 (Path 29, Row 29) were processed and used for comparison. Three corn fields in three sites were used to compare actual evapotranspiration (ETa). The results showed a good relationship betweenETaestimated by the METRIC model (ETa-METRIC) andETaestimated with atmometer (ETa-atm) (r2= 0.87, index of agreement of 0.84, and RMSE = 0.65 mm day−1). However,ETa-atm values were consistently lower thanETa-METRIC values. The differences in dailyETabetween the two methods increase with high wind speed values (>4 m s−1). Results from this study are useful for improving irrigation water management at local and field scales.
Final Machining of Large-Scale Engine Block with Modularized Fixture and Virtual Manufacturing Technologies
Authors: Liu Hong , Peng Fan , Liu Yi
Published: December 2017

This paper addresses the issue of unstable machining quality of large-scale high-precision internal combustion engine block; the key machining technologies of complex thin-wall internal combustion engine block are studied. This dissertation takes the L type engine block that is used as research object; the modular and fast changing fixtures have been designed for machining engine blocks; due to the fact that this kind of engine blocks has different number of cylinders, we establish a model of precision machining scheme based on virtual manufacturing technology and manufacturing method; on this basis, the scheme is applied to the actual production process to verify the feasibility of the program. The research shows that the precision machining scheme established based on virtual manufacturing technology can effectively solve the key machining technology of the engine block, and one purpose of using this method is to improve machining precision and efficiency of the assembly production. This study intends to propose final machining technology project of high-precision products, and this will formulate and gradually perfect a machining process framework for large engine block, which has engineering exploration value to promote machining technology.
Determinants of Malaria Prevention and Treatment Seeking Behaviours of Pregnant Undergraduates Resident in University Hostels, South-East Nigeria
Authors: Chinweuba Anthonia Ukamaka , Agbapuonwu Noreen Ebelechukwu , Onyiapat JaneLovena Enuma , Israel Chidimma Egbichi , Ilo Clementine Ifeyinwa , Arinze Joyce Chinenye
Published: December 2017

This cross-sectional descriptive survey investigated determinants of malaria prevention and treatment seeking behaviours of pregnant undergraduates resident in university hostels, South-East Nigeria. Purposive sampling was used to enrol 121 accessible and consenting undergraduates with self-revealed and noticeable pregnancy residing in twenty-three female hostels of four university campuses in Enugu State, Nigeria. Structured interview guide developed based on reviewed literature and WHO-recommended malaria prevention and treatment measures was used to collect students’ self-report data on malaria preventive health behaviours, sick role behaviours, and clinic use using mixed methods. The WHO-recommended malaria prevention measures were sparingly used. Some believed that pregnancy does not play any role in a woman’s reaction to malaria infection. Only 41 (50.6%) visited a hospital for screening and treatment. Thirty-four (28.1%) used antimalaria medicine bought from chemist shop or over-the-counter medicines, while 33 (27.3%) used untreated net. The students were more likely to complete their antimalaria medicine when they were sick with malaria infection than for prevention (p=0.0186). Knowledge, academic schedule, cultural influence on perception and decision-making, and accessibility of health facility were key determinants of the women’s preventive and treatment seeking behaviours. Health education on malaria prevention and dangers of drug abuse should form part of orientation lectures for all freshmen. University health centres should be upgraded to provide basic antenatal care services.
Schinzel-Giedion Syndrome with Congenital Megacalycosis in a Turkish Patient: Report of SETBP1 Mutation and Literature Review of the Clinical Features
Authors: Bulut Ozgul , Ince Zeynep , Altunoglu Umut , Yildirim Sukran , Coban Asuman
Published: December 2017

Schinzel-Giedion syndrome (SGS) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder that results in facial dysmorphism, multiple congenital anomalies, and an increased risk of malignancy. Recently, using exome sequencing, de novo heterozygous mutations in the SETBP1 gene have been identified in patients with SGS. Most affected individuals do not survive after childhood because of the severity of this disorder. Here, we report SETBP1 mutation confirmed by molecular analysis in a case of SGS with congenital megacalycosis.
Interventions: Employees’ Perceptions of What Reduces Stress
Authors: Pignata Silvia , Boyd Carolyn M. , Winefield Anthony H. , Provis Chris
Published: December 2017

Objective. To build upon research evaluating stress interventions, this qualitative study tests the framework of the extended Job Demands-Resources model to investigate employees’ perceptions of the stress-reduction measures implemented at 13 Australian universities. Methods. In a cross-sectional survey design, tenured and contract staff indicated whether their overall level of stress had changed during the previous three-four years, and, if so, they described the major causes. A total of 462 staff reported that their level of stress had decreased; the study examines commentary from 115 academic and 304 nonacademic staff who provided details of what they perceived to be effective in reducing stress. Results. Thematic analyses show that the key perceived causes were changes in job or work role, new heads of departments or supervisors, and the use of organizational strategies to reduce or manage stress. A higher percentage of academic staff reported reduced stress due to using protective coping strategies or their increased recognition and/or success, whereas a higher percentage of nonacademic staff reported reduced stress due to increases in staffing resources and/or systems. Conclusion. These results identify the importance of implementing multilevel strategies to enhance employees’ well-being. Nonacademic staff, in particular, specified a variety of organizational stress-reduction interventions.
Numerical Analysis of Fractional Order Epidemic Model of Childhood Diseases
Authors: Haq Fazal , Shahzad Muhammad , Muhammad Shakoor , Wahab Hafiz Abdul , ur Rahman Ghaus
Published: December 2017

The fractional order Susceptible-Infected-Recovered (SIR) epidemic model of childhood disease is considered. Laplace–Adomian Decomposition Method is used to compute an approximate solution of the system of nonlinear fractional differential equations. We obtain the solutions of fractional differential equations in the form of infinite series. The series solution of the proposed model converges rapidly to its exact value. The obtained results are compared with the classical case.
Evaluation of Global Genomic DNA Methylation in Human Whole Blood by Capillary Electrophoresis UV Detection
Authors: Zinellu Angelo , Sotgiu Elisabetta , Assaretti Stefano , Sotgia Salvatore , Paliogiannis Panagiotis , Pintus Gianfranco , Mangoni Arduino A. , Carru Ciriaco
Published: December 2017

Alterations in global DNA methylation are implicated in various pathophysiological processes. The development of simple and quick, yet robust, methods to assess DNA methylation is required to facilitate its measurement and interpretation in clinical practice. We describe a highly sensitive and reproducible capillary electrophoresis method with UV detection for the separation and detection of cytosine and methylcytosine, after formic acid hydrolysis of DNA extracted from human whole blood. Hydrolysed samples were dried and resuspended with water and directly injected into the capillary without sample derivatization procedures. The use of a run buffer containing 50 mmol/L BIS-TRIS propane (BTP) phosphate buffer at pH 3.25 and 60 mmol/L sodium acetate buffer at pH 3.60 (4 : 1, v/v) allowed full analyte identification within 11 min. Precision tests indicated an elevated reproducibility with an interassay CV of 1.98% when starting from 2 μg of the extracted DNA. The method was successfully tested by measuring the DNA methylation degree both in healthy volunteers and in reference calf thymus DNA.
Chiral Phase Transition in Linear Sigma Model with Nonextensive Statistical Mechanics
Authors: Shen Ke-Ming , Zhang Hui , Hou De-Fu , Zhang Ben-Wei , Wang En-Ke
Published: December 2017

From the nonextensive statistical mechanics, we investigate the chiral phase transition at finite temperature T and baryon chemical potential μB in the framework of the linear sigma model. The corresponding nonextensive distribution, based on Tsallis’ statistics, is characterized by a dimensionless nonextensive parameter, q, and the results in the usual Boltzmann-Gibbs case are recovered when q→1. The thermodynamics of the linear sigma model and its corresponding phase diagram are analysed. At high temperature region, the critical temperature Tc is shown to decrease with increasing q from the phase diagram in the (T,μ) plane. However, larger values of q cause the rise of Tc at low temperature but high chemical potential. Moreover, it is found that μ different from zero corresponds to a first-order phase transition while μ=0 to a crossover one. The critical endpoint (CEP) carries higher chemical potential but lower temperature with q increasing due to the nonextensive effects.
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli in the Urine Samples of Iranian Dogs: Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern and Distribution of Antibiotic Resistance Genes
Authors: Yousefi Amirhossein , Torkan Saam
Published: December 2017

Resistant uropathogenic Escherichia coli is the most common cause of urinary tract infections in dogs. The present research was done to study the prevalence rate and antimicrobial resistance properties of UPEC strains isolated from healthy dogs and those which suffered from UTIs. Four-hundred and fifty urine samples were collected and cultured. E. coli-positive strains were subjected to disk diffusion and PCR methods. Two-hundred out of 450 urine samples (44.4%) were positive for E. coli. Prevalence of E. coli in healthy and infected dogs was 28% and 65%, respectively. Female had the higher prevalence of E. coli (P=0.039). Marked seasonality was also observed (P=0.024). UPEC strains had the highest levels of resistance against gentamicin (95%), ampicillin (85%), amikacin (70%), amoxicillin (65%), and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (65%). We found that 21.50% of UPEC strains had simultaneously resistance against more than 10 antibiotics. Aac(3)-IV (77%), CITM (52.5%), tetA (46.5%), and sul1 (40%) were the most commonly detected antibiotic resistance genes. Findings showed considerable levels of antimicrobial resistance among UPEC strains of Iranian dogs. Rapid identification of infected dogs and their treatment based on the results of disk diffusion can control the risk of UPEC strains.
Implementation and Comparison of High-Resolution Spatial Discretization Schemes for Solving Two-Fluid Seven-Equation Two-Pressure Model
Authors: Wu Pan , Chao Fei , Wu Dan , Shan Jianqiang , Gou Junli
Published: December 2017

As compared to the two-fluid single-pressure model, the two-fluid seven-equation two-pressure model has been proved to be unconditionally well-posed in all situations, thus existing with a wide range of industrial applications. The classical 1st-order upwind scheme is widely used in existing nuclear system analysis codes such as RELAP5, CATHARE, and TRACE. However, the 1st-order upwind scheme possesses issues of serious numerical diffusion and high truncation error, thus giving rise to the challenge of accurately modeling many nuclear thermal-hydraulics problems such as long term transients. In this paper, a semi-implicit algorithm based on the finite volume method with staggered grids is developed to solve such advanced well-posed two-pressure model. To overcome the challenge from 1st-order upwind scheme, eight high-resolution total variation diminishing (TVD) schemes are implemented in such algorithm to improve spatial accuracy. Then the semi-implicit algorithm with high-resolution TVD schemes is validated on the water faucet test. The numerical results show that the high-resolution semi-implicit algorithm is robust in solving the two-pressure two-fluid two-phase flow model; Superbee scheme and Koren scheme give two highest levels of accuracy while Minmod scheme is the worst one among the eight TVD schemes.
Effects of Varieties and Nitrogen Fertilizer on Yield and Yield Components of Maize on Farmers Field in Mid Altitude Areas of Western Ethiopia
Authors: Abera Tolera , Debele Tolessa , Wegary Dagne
Published: December 2017

Yield of maize hybrids could be low when grown below optimum management practices. Use of improved varieties and optimum nitrogen fertilizer application practices are unlocking the high yielding potential of hybrids maize. With these in view, a field experiment was executed on farmers’ field to determine the effect of varieties and nitrogen fertilizer rate on yield and yield components of maize in two cropping seasons. It is laid out with randomized complete block design in factorial arrangement with three replications. Five maize varieties (BH-540, BH-543, BH-661, BH-660, and BH-140) as main factor and two levels of nitrogen (55 and 110 Kg N ha−1) as subfactor were used with one maize variety (BH-543) without fertilizer as control. Leaf area and leaf area index of maize varieties were significantly affected by application of nitrogen fertilizer rates. Interaction of maize varieties with nitrogen fertilizer rates significantly affected all yield and yield components of maize. Application of half and full recommended nitrogen fertilizer produced mean grain yield advantages of 31 and 41% over control. Therefore, application of half and full recommended nitrogen fertilizer for improved maize varieties has significantly improved grain yield and recommended for maize production in midaltitude area of western Ethiopia.
Reclamation of Herb Residues Using Probiotics and Their Therapeutic Effect on Diarrhea
Authors: Meng Fanjing , Chen Tingtao , Ma Dongwen , Wang Xin , Zhao Xiaoxiao , Tian Puyuan , Wang Huan , Hai Zhiwen , Shen Liang , Tang Xianyao , Wang Xiaolei , Xin Hongbo
Published: December 2017

Residues from herbal medicine processing in pharmaceutical plants create a large amount of waste (herb residues), which consists mainly of environmental pollution and medicinal waste. In order to resolve this problem, probiotics ofBacillus (B.) subtilis,Aspergillus (A.) oryzae, andLactobacillus (L.) plantarumM3 are selected to reuse herb residue of Jianweixiaoshi tablets (JT), and an antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) mouse model was established to evaluate the therapeutic effects of the herb residue fermentation supernatant. Our results indicated that the fermentation supernatant had scavenged 77.8% of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 78% of O2•−, 36.7% of•OH, 39% of Fe2+chelation, and 716 mg/L reducing power. The inhibition zones forSalmonella (S.) typhimurium,S. enteritidis,Shigella (Sh.) flexneri,Escherichia (E.) coli,Listeria (L.) monocytogenes,Sh. dysenteriae301, andStaphylococcus (S.) aureuswere 17, 14, 19, 18, 20, 19, and 20 mm, respectively. The in vivo results indicated that the fermentation supernatant resulted in a high diarrhea inhibition rate (56%,p<0.05), greatly enhanced the disruption of bacterial diversity caused by antibiotics, and restored the dominant position ofL. johnsoniiin the treatment and recovery stages. Therefore, the combination of the herb residue and probiotics suggests a potential to explore conversion of these materials for the possible development of therapies for AAD.
Soil Amendments and Rotation Effects on Soybean and Maize Growths and Soil Chemical Changes in Northern Ghana
Authors: Kanton R. A. L. , Buah S. S. J. , Larbi A. , Mohammed A. M. , Bidzakin J. K. , Yakubu E. A.
Published: December 2017

A four-year field trial was conducted at Bonia in the Upper East Region of Ghana to evaluate soybean-maize rotation amendment systems. The treatments included soybean without amendment, inoculated soybean, inoculated soybean with fertisol, inoculated soybean with phosphorus and potassium (P, K), inoculated soybean with P, K and fertisol, inoculated soybean with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N, P, K), and continuous maize. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Inoculation negatively affected yields by 2% and 14% in 2013 and 2015, respectively. Soil amendments with P, K or N, P, K increased yields within 45–51%, fertisol increased by 95%, and integration of P, K and fertisol recorded 76% increment of inoculated soybean. Yields of maize increased by 1%, 20%, 25%, 43%, 44%, and 46% under inoculated soybean, inoculated soybean with N, P, K, inoculated soybean with P, K, inoculated soybean with fertisol, soybean without amendment, and inoculated soybean with P, K and fertisol, respectively. Maize after inoculated soybean with fertisol and maize after inoculated soybean with P, K and fertisol consistently scored higher benefit-cost ratio across the two years of experimentation. Thus, the two systems are conceivable for recommendation to the farmers in northern Ghana.
Using Novel Technology within a School-Based Setting to Increase Physical Activity: A Pilot Study in School-Age Children from a Low-Income, Urban Community
Authors: Evans E. Whitney , Abrantes Ana M. , Chen Eva , Jelalian Elissa
Published: December 2017

Background. Less than half of American children meet national physical activity (PA) recommendations. This study tested the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of using wearable PA monitors to increase PA in school-age children. Methods. In Phase 1 of this study, conducted in 2014, 32 fifth-grade students enrolled in a low-resource middle school were given a waist-worn Fitbit Zip monitor for 4 weeks to test its feasibility (adherence) and acceptability. Adherence, wear time of ≥8 hours per day, was examined. Feedback was solicited from parents through structured interviews. In Phase 2, conducted in 2015, 42 sixth-grade students were assigned, by classroom, to one of three conditions (Fitbit + goal and incentive-based intervention, Fitbit only, or control) to test the feasibility of the wrist-worn Fitbit Charge and its preliminary effectiveness in increasing PA over 6 weeks. Results. In Phase 1, average adherence was 64.1%. In Phase 2, it was 73.4% and 80.2% for participants in the Fitbit + intervention and Fitbit only groups, respectively (p=.07). After controlling for baseline values, weight status, and sex, there were no significant group differences in changes in MVPA or steps from baseline to follow-up. Conclusions. While moderately acceptable, wearable PA monitors did not increase PA levels in this sample. They may be more effective within a coordinated school-based physical activity program.
Surgical Management of Pilocytic Astrocytoma of the Optic Nerve: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Apanisile Ifeoluwa , Karosi Tamás
Published: December 2017

Optic nerve astrocytomas (ONAs) are frequent types of optic nerve gliomas (ONGs), which can affect the visual pathway. An 18-year-old male patient was admitted to our department with right-sided intraorbital/retrobulbar swelling, which progressively grew over several months. Clinical examination showed right-sided diplopia, mydriasis, low visual acuity (0.4), exophthalmus (3 cm), epiphora, and severe retrobulbar pain. There was a family history of high-grade (IV) astrocytomas in which two of the family members died due to the disease. Preoperative MRI scan revealed a soft tissue mass around the retrobulbar area of the right eye with intact orbital bony walls. Surgery was performed whereby it was dissected freely from the muscles and was separated from the optic nerve and the globe. Histopathologic analysis confirmed a benign astrocytoma. The follow-up examination revealed no recurrent or residual tumor. A systemic review of the literature indicates that early diagnosis and experienced multidisciplinary management are required in case of unilateral, resectable forms of ONAs with no distant metastasis, in order to provide a long-time survival of patients. Surgical intervention of unilateral ONAs is a relatively safe procedure, allowing complete or partial tumor removal with minimal morbidity and low recurrence rate.
Frequency of Toxocariasis among Patients Clinically Suspected to Have Visceral Toxocariasis: A Retrospective Descriptive Study in Sri Lanka
Authors: Iddawela Devika , Ehambaram Kiruthiha , Atapattu Dhilma , Pethiyagoda Kalyani , Bandara Lakmalee
Published: December 2017

Introduction. Human toxocariasis is caused by several species of the nematodeToxocara. Two common clinical syndromes are ocular and visceral larva migrans.Objectives. To determine theToxocaraantibody positivity in clinically suspected VLM patients and to describe demographic factors and clinical manifestations of seropositive patients.Methods. 522 clinically suspected patients were studied between 1993 and 2014. Relevant data was gathered from referral letters. Serum samples were subjected toToxocara antigen ELISA.Results. Overall, seropositivity was 50.2% (262), of which 109 (40.8%) were positive at high level ofToxocaraantibody carriage and 153 (58.4%) were positive at low levels. The seropositives ranged from 3 months to 70 years (mean = 7.8). Younger age group had higher levels of seropositivity and it was statistically significant. Majority of children under 5 years were seropositive (47.7%,n=125). Seropositivity was common in males (55.3%,n=145). Clinical manifestations of seropositives include lymphadenopathy (24.1%) skin rash (22.5%), dyspnoea (21.7%), fever (21%), hepatosplenomegaly (9.2%), and abdominal pain (3.8%). 197 (75.2%) seropositive cases had eosinophilia. These symptoms were not statistically significant.Conclusions. This study confirms toxocariasis as an important cause of childhood ill health identifying common clinical symptoms recommending preventive measures to limit transmission.
Degradation Data-Driven Remaining Useful Life Estimation in the Absence of Prior Degradation Knowledge
Authors: Yu Yong , Hu Changhua , Si Xiaosheng , Zhang Jianxun
Published: December 2017

Recent developments in prognostic and health management have been targeted at utilizing the observed degradation signals to estimate residual life distributions. Current degradation models mainly focus on a population of “identical” devices or an individual device with population information, not a single component in the absence of prior degradation knowledge. However, the fast development of science and technology provides us with many kinds of new systems, and we just have the real-time monitoring information to analyze the reliability for them. The fusion algorithm presented herein addresses this challenge by combining the excellent modeling ability of Bayesian updating method for the multilevel data and the prominent estimation ability of ECM algorithm for incomplete data. Residual life distributions and posterior distributions are first calculated through the Bayesian updating method based on random initial a priori distributions. Then the a priori distributions are revised and improved for future predictions by the ECM algorithm. Once a new signal is observed, we can reuse the fusion algorithm to improve the accuracy of residual life distributions. The applicability of this fusion algorithm is validated by a set of simulation experiments.
Complex Segregation Analysis Provides Evidence for Autosomal Dominant Transmission in the Chinese Han Families with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Jiang Yutong , Lv Qing , Rao Shaoqi , Liao Zetao , Zhang Pingping , Yang Mingcan , Li Qiuxia , Cao Shuangyan , Lin Zhiming , Gu Jieruo
Published: December 2017

Introduction. Familial aggregation of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) has been frequently noticed. However, the mode of inheritance in AS remains poorly understood. Our aim was to determine the mode of inheritance best fitting the observed transmission pattern of AS families. Methods. Families with 5 or more AS patients diagnosed with 1984 modified New York criteria were recruited. We performed complex segregation analysis for a binary trait in regressive multivariate logistic models. The inheritance models, including sporadic, major gene, environmental, general, and other 9 models, were compared by likelihood ratio tests and Akaike’s Information Criterion. Results. This research included 9 Chinese Han AS families with a total number of 315 persons, including 74 patients. First, familial association was determined. Sporadic with familial association model was rejected when compared with either the general model or the homogeneous general model (p<0.001). The environmental model was also rejected when compared with general models (p<0.02). Mendelian dominate mode fitted best in 5 AS families, while Tau AB free model best explained the mode of inheritance in these AS families. Conclusion. This study provided evidence in support of Mendelian dominant mode and firstly discovered a non-Mendelian mode called tau AB free inheritance mode in AS.
Effect of Intermediate-Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Recovery following Traumatic Brain Injury in Rats
Authors: Verdugo-Diaz Leticia , Estrada-Rojo Francisco , Garcia-Espinoza Aron , Hernandez-Lopez Eduardo , Hernandez-Chavez Alejandro , Guzman-Uribe Carlos , Martinez-Vargas Marina , Perez-Arredondo Adan , Calvario Tomas , Elias-Viñas David , Navarro Luz
Published: December 2017

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a significant public health concern and has been associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Although several research groups have proposed the use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to enhance neuroprotection and recovery in patients with TBI, few studies have obtained sufficient evidence regarding its effects in this population. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the effect of intermediate-frequency rTMS (2 Hz) on behavioral and histological recovery following TBI in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: three groups without TBI (no manipulation, movement restriction plus sham rTMS, and movement restriction plus rTMS) and three groups subjected to TBI (TBI only, TBI plus movement restriction and sham rTMS, and TBI plus movement restriction and rTMS). The movement restriction groups were included so that rTMS could be applied without anesthesia. Our results indicate that the restriction of movement and sham rTMS per se promotes recovery, as measured using a neurobehavioral scale, although rTMS was associated with faster and superior recovery. We also observed that TBI caused alterations in the CA1 and CA3 subregions of the hippocampus, which are partly restored by movement restriction and rTMS. Our findings indicated that movement restriction prevents damage caused by TBI and that intermediate-frequency rTMS promotes behavioral and histologic recovery after TBI.
Testosterone: Relationships with Metabolic Disorders in Men—An Observational Study from SPECT-China
Authors: Cheng Jing , Han Bing , Li Qin , Xia Fangzhen , Zhai Hualing , Wang Ningjian , Jensen Michael , Lu Yingli
Published: December 2017

Background. The strength of associations between total testosterone (TT) and metabolic parameters may vary in different nature of population structure; however, no study has ever given this information in Chinese population, especially those without metabolic syndrome (MS). We aimed to analyze the association magnitudes between TT and multiple metabolic parameters in general Chinese men. Methods. 4309 men were recruited from SPECT-China study in 2014-2015, which was performed in 22 sites in East China. TT, weight status, and various metabolic parameters were measured. Linear and logistic regressions were used to analyze the associations. Results. Men in lower TT quartiles had worse metabolic parameters including body mass index, triglycerides, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR (all P for trend < 0.001). Body mass index (B −0.32, 95%CI −0.35 to −0.29) and obesity (OR 0.40, 95%CI 0.35–0.45) had the largest association magnitude per one SD increment in TT, while blood pressure and hypertension (OR 0.90, 95%CI 0.84–0.98) had the smallest. These associations also persisted in individuals without metabolic syndrome. Conclusions. Obesity indices had closer relationships with TT than most other metabolic measures with blood pressure the least close. These associations remained robust after adjustment for adiposity and in subjects without metabolic syndrome.
Spatial and Temporal Features of the Frequency of Cloud Occurrence over China Based on CALIOP
Authors: Cai Hongke , Feng Xiao , Chen Quanliang , Sun Yi , Wu Zhengmin , Tie Xin
Published: December 2017

Spatial and temporal distribution of cloud vertical structure are key components of global climate change. The occurrence of clouds over China and its surrounding areas has been calculated based on cloud layer products from the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) at 1 km resolution. Results show significant regional differences in the frequency of cloud occurrence. Fewer clouds are found over the Mongolian Plateau and northern Indian Peninsula, with more clouds apparent over tropical seas and southern China. Cloud cover at night is slightly higher than during the day. Single-layer clouds are more common than multilayer clouds in most areas. In most areas, high-level cloud accounts for the largest proportion of single-layer clouds. The occurrence of clouds in summer and autumn is generally greater than in spring and winter. Single-layer clouds over the Mongolian Plateau and northern Indian Peninsula occur less frequently than multilayer clouds, especially in winter. Furthermore, single-layer clouds are common over the eastern part of southwest China all year round. Over parts of the Tibetan Plateau in summer, high clouds account for the largest proportion (>35%) of annual single-layer clouds, as a result of topography and enhanced summer convection.
Synthesis of ZnO Nanopowders by the Homogeneous Precipitation Method: Use of Taguchi’s Method for Analyzing the Effect of Different Variables
Authors: Herrera-Rivera R. , Olvera M. de la L. , Maldonado A.
Published: December 2017

In the present work the effect of different factors in the synthesis of ZnO powders by the homogeneous precipitation method is analyzed. A robust statistical technique, Taguchi’s method, was used to reduce the experiments number. The variables studied were precursor, solvent and precipitating agent type, Zn molar concentration, percentage of saturation, speed and time of agitation, and temperature of synthesis. In order to optimize the particle size, an experimental design of 18 trials was proposed, according to L18 Taguchi array. Structural and morphological properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning and transmission electron microscopy techniques (SEM and TEM). The estimated crystallite size in synthesized samples ranged from 32 to 57 nm. The morphologies obtained presented several forms, such as spheres, wires, flowers, bars, and tetrahedrons, with a particle size variation of 35 to 165 nm. In this work it is shown that using a statistical experimental design leads us to a fast and reliable optimization of the synthesis parameters for obtaining small size ZnO nanoparticles, thus optimizing time and human and materials resources.