bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient Liquid Phase Bonding of Inconel 718 With Ni and BNi-2 Nano-Braze Materials
Authors: Bridges Denzel , Hu Anming , Xu Raymond
Published: November 2019

Ni nanoparticles were successfully used to join Inconel 718 via transient liquid phase (TLP) bonding in a vacuum environment. Ni nanoparticles of 20 nm, 29 nm, and 41 nm in diameter were synthesized by controlling the reducing agent injection rate and joined at up to 1050 °C and heating rate 5–15 °C/min. Based on the Gibbs-Thomson equation and surface melting models, joining using Ni nanoparticles occurs due to competing solid-state sintering and surface melting processes. It was found that faster heating rate; higher maximum bonding temperature, and larger particle size resulted in higher bonding strength. Using a faster heating rate suppresses the amount of solid-state particle-particle sintering that occurs at lower temperatures, where particle-Inconel 718 joining is less active. The suppression of particle-particle sintering as a function of particle diameter is also discussed. The maximum bonding strength achieved is 243 MPa. The fracture surface for Ni nanoparticle-bonded joints demonstrated intergranular fracture (low strength joints) and a combination of cleavage and microvoid coalescence (high strength joints).
The Effects of Laser-Assisted Ultrasonic Nanocrystal Surface Modification on 3D-Printed Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Zhang Hao , Liu Jun , Dong Yalin , Ye Chang
Published: November 2019

In this paper, 3D-printed Ti-6Al-4V (Ti64) alloy, a hard-to-deform alloy with poor surface finish and high porosity was processed by an innovative technique, laser-assisted ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (LA-UNSM). The localized thermal effect of continuous laser decreases the flow stress of the alloy effectively. The effects of LA-UNSM on surface finish, microstructure, and surface hardness were investigated and compared with traditional UNSM treated samples. It is found that much smoother and harder surface was obtained after LA-UNSM. In addition, LA-UNSM also led to a thicker plastically-affected layer compared with UNSM process only. It is found that the LA-UNSM is a very efficient post-processing technique for 3D-printed alloys since it makes the thermal and mechanical effects work synergistically and energy-efficiently.
Automated Measuring Planning for On-Machine Measurement and Re-Machining Process
Authors: Murase Motoaki , Nishida Isamu , Sato Ryuta , Shirase Keiichi
Published: November 2019

On-machine measurement (OMM) is introducing to Numerical Control (NC) machine tools. By the OMM, a workpiece is measured on the machine tool (i.e., without loading and unloading), so OMM can reduce the setup time and positioning error for reloading a workpiece. OMM is used for the process control during machining because it is still difficult to suppress the machining error caused by the cutting process such as the tool deflection, the tool wear and the heat deformation during machining. There are several approaches to on-machine measurement, including non-contact measurements using a laser displacement sensor or imaging equipment and contact measurements using a touch probe. However, to conduct OMM with a touch probe it is necessary to generate an NC program by operators. Moreover, for the process control and monitoring, the information of machining process should be considered in the measuring plan.

For process control, measurement of a region that affects machining in the next process should be conducted during the machining process (i.e., after the machining of that region). Furthermore, when some machining abnormality that affects product quality occurs during the machining process, the abnormality should be detected and measured at an early stage to avoid unnecessary machining.

This study aims to realize the automation of planning for on-machine measurement, where measurement is conducted at the necessary time during the machining process based on process planning for the early detection of machining abnormality. Furthermore, when a machining abnormality is detected based on the measurement results, the proposed system automatically judges whether to stop machining or to re-machine the affected region.
Formation of Micro-/Nano-Surface Structures on Stainless Steel by Ultrafast Lasers
Authors: Li Kewei , Zhao Xin
Published: November 2019

Surface morphology is a critical factor to determine the surface functionality. Ultrafast pulsed laser is a powerful tool to induce multi-scale surface structures on different materials, and thus control their functionalities. This paper presents an experimental study on the micro/nano-scale surface structure formation by femtosecond laser irradiation on stainless steel. The effects of laser fluence, effective pulse number per spot, and repetition rate on the structure morphology and dimension are studied. By controlling the laser parameters, four different types of structures are obtained: (1) laser-induced periodic surface structrues (LIPSS), (2) microgrooves covered by LIPSS, (3) microgrooves/micro-holes covered by LIPSS, and (4) irregular microstructures. The formation dynamics and mechanisms of different structures are investigated.
Effect of Cooling Modes on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cr18Ni8Mo2Si Cladding to 40Cr by Laser Cladding Technology
Authors: Xu Mingsan , Liu Simo , Mei Mingliang , Li Bingbing
Published: November 2019

Laser cladding is a new technology to clad metallic material to substrate. The objective of this research is to find optimized process parameters such as preheating temperature of substrate, laser power, scanning speed, spot diameter for cladding Cr18Ni8Mo2Si on 40Cr substrate. Moreover, effects of different cooling modes, cooling in temperature control box or natural environment were studied. Orthogonal experiments are used to find optimized parameters and better cooling strategy. Experimental results are analyzed through measurements of residual stress, micro-hardness, and metallic microstructure. It was observed that parts cooling in temperature control box show better qualities: smaller residual stress, less cracks or other structural defects, better microstructure, and better bonding effect. This research provides a guideline for further researches in temperature control of laser cladding and expands application to rotary die cutting machine.
Chatter Prediction for Face Milling Process of Workpieces With Variable Stiffness
Authors: Li Guilong , Du Shichang , Huang Delin , Zhao Chen , Deng Yafei
Published: November 2019

In face milling process, the cutting chatter induced by unsuitable processing parameters could lead to tremendous damage to machine tools and loss of machined surface quality. Therefore, as one of the most effective and efficient methods to avoid chatter, the stability lobe diagram (SLD) has received continuous concern from researchers. Since the dynamic cutting forces are definitely dependent on the tool path and the stiffness distribution of the workpiece, the exact interaction between the milling cutter and the workpiece should be taken into consideration for chatter prediction. However, most related researches have been focused on the dynamic modeling of the spindles and machine tools, regardless of the characteristics of workpieces. To overcome this limitation, an analytical method is proposed to predict the milling chatter for workpieces with variable stiffness. Firstly, a dynamic model for the general milling process is established. Secondly, the cutting insert engagement is determined based on the stiffness characteristic of the workpieces and the cutting path of the milling cutter. At last, the SLD applicable to workpieces with variable stiffness is constructed, and a case study of an engine block shows that the proposed method is valid.
Host selection and seasonal fluctuation of Leptotrombidium deliense (Walch, 1922) (Trombidiformes: Trombiculidae) at a localized area of southern Yunnan, China

Authors: Lv Yan , Guo Xianguo , Jin Daochao , Song Wenyu , Fan Rong , Zhao Chengfu , Zhang Zhiwei , Mao Keyu , Peng Peiying , Lin Hao , Zhao Yue , Qian Tijun , Dong Wenge
Published: November 2019

As an independent species of chigger mites, Leptotrombidium deliense (Walch 1922) is the most important and powerful vector of scrub typhus (tsutsugamushi disease) in the south of China. Located in the southwest of China, Yunnan province, especially southern Yunnan, is an important focus of scrub typhus. A localized area, Jingha village in southern Yunnan, was chosen as the target site and a field investigation at the village was carried out for 12 consecutive months from April 2016 to March 2017. The investigation is an attempt to illustrate the small mammals host selection and seasonal fluctuation of L. deliense at a fixed geographical site within the focus of scrub typhus, and the selected localized area makes this possible. A total of 2,434 hosts were captured and examined, including rodents and some other “rodent-like” small mammals. Of the identified 15 host species, L. deliense was found on 73.33% of them (11 species of hosts), but 88.61% of the mites were from the Southeast Asian house rats, Rattus brunneusculus. Of 10 genera, 5 families and 4 orders of identified hosts, more than 80.00% of them were infested with L. deliense with a prominent cross infestation among different taxonomic categories of hosts, but the majority of the mites (96.60%) were collected from rodents (the order Rodentia), especially the rats in the genus Rattus (92.95%). It suggests that L. deliense prefers rodents (especially the Rattus rats) to some other small mammals although it has a low host specificity. Rattus brunneusculus is the major host of the mite in the investigated site. The female R. brunneusculus rats harbored more L. deliense mites than the male rats (P<0.01). The spatial distribution pattern of L. deliense on the hosts was determined as aggregated distribution. L. deliense mites were collected every month with two peaks (in July and October), belonging to the summer-autumn type. The first peak in July was much higher than the second peak in October. The monthly fluctuation of L. deliense was highly in accordance with that of the rainfall, which suggests the summer season with plentiful rainfall benefits the occurrence of this powerful vector of scrub typhus, L. deliense.
The use of nonhuman primates in studies of noise injury and treatment
Authors: Burton Jane A. , Valero Michelle D. , Hackett Troy A. , Ramachandran Ramnarayan
Published: November 2019

Exposure to prolonged or high intensity noise increases the risk for permanent hearing impairment. Over several decades, researchers characterized the nature of harmful noise exposures and worked to establish guidelines for effective protection. Recent laboratory studies, primarily conducted in rodent models, indicate that the auditory system may be more vulnerable to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) than previously thought, driving renewed inquiries into the harmful effects of noise in humans. To bridge the translational gaps between rodents and humans, nonhuman primates (NHPs) may serve as key animal models. The phylogenetic proximity of NHPs to humans underlies tremendous similarity in many features of the auditory system (genomic, anatomical, physiological, behavioral), all of which are important considerations in the assessment and treatment of NIHL. This review summarizes the literature pertaining to NHPs as models of hearing and noise-induced hearing loss, discusses factors relevant to the translation of diagnostics and therapeutics from animals to humans, and concludes with some of the practical considerations involved in conducting NHP research.
Prevalence of loud leisure noise activities among a representative sample of Canadians aged 6–79 years
Authors: Feder Katya , Marro Leonora , McNamee James , Michaud David
Published: November 2019

This population-based study estimates the prevalence of loud leisure noise exposure and hearing protection usage among Canadians, as well as the population potentially at-risk using an occupational limit of 85 dBA, LEX 40 h, which denotes a typical occupational noise limit for a 40 hour work week. A total of 10 460 participants, aged 6–79 years, completed a Canadian Health Measures Survey household questionnaire. Loud leisure noise was defined by vocal effort required while communicating at arm's length except for loud personal listening device (PLD) usage with earbuds/headphones, which included both volume setting and vocal effort. The most prevalent loud leisure noise activities were amplified music, car/home stereo listening, and power tools, with 40% reporting each source, followed by sporting/entertainment (25%), gasoline engines (23%), and loud PLD listening (19.5%). Loud leisure noise was more prevalent among 12–39 year olds and males. Hearing protection usage was uncommon, from 44.2% (firearms) to 20.3% (power tools) and below 3% during amplified music and sporting/entertainment events. Calculations using self-reported duration of loud leisure noise activities estimated that 6.6 × 106 Canadians were in the high cumulative noise exposure category. A large proportion of Canadians would be expected to develop some degree of noise-induced hearing loss should this pattern persist over years.
Octave band noise exposure: Laboratory models and otoprotection efforts
Authors: Gittleman Sarah N. , Le Prell Colleen G. , Hammill Tanisha L.
Published: November 2019

With advances in the understanding of mechanisms of noise injury, the past 30 years have brought numerous efforts to identify drugs that prevent noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). The diverse protocols used across investigations have made comparisons across drugs difficult. A systematic review of the literature by Hammill [(2017). Doctoral thesis, The University of Texas at Austin] identified original reports of chemical interventions to prevent or treat hearing loss caused by noise exposure. An initial search returned 3492 articles. After excluding duplicate articles and articles that did not meet the systematic review inclusion criteria, a total of 213 studies published between 1977 and 2016 remained. Reference information, noise exposure parameters, species, sex, method of NIHL assessment, and pharmaceutical intervention details for these 213 studies were entered into a database. Frequency-specific threshold shifts in control animals (i.e., in the absence of pharmaceutical intervention) are reported here. Specific patterns of hearing loss as a function of species and noise exposure parameters are provided to facilitate the selection of appropriate pre-clinical models. The emphasis of this report is octave band noise exposure, as this is one of the most common exposure protocols across pharmacological otoprotection studies.
Analytical and numerical methods for efficient calculation of edge diffraction by an arbitrary incident signal
Authors: Nikolaou Petros , Menounou Penelope
Published: November 2019

In the present study, diffraction of plane and spherically spreading signals by half-planes is considered. An existing analytical impulse response is investigated, which is exact for plane and approximate for spherical incident signals. It is shown that all its primitive functions with respect to time exist and have an explicit form involving elementary functions. The primitive functions are employed to (i) prove that the convolution of the impulse response with any bounded signal is also bounded for all times, (ii) obtain analytically the diffraction response as a combination of elementary functions for any incident signal approximated piecewise by fitting polynomials, (iii) improve the performance of the numerical convolution by orders of magnitude, and (iv) handle the convolution of very coarsely sampled incident signals. An impulse response is presented for finite-length edges, which, unlike the traditional integration formulas along the edge, is an explicit form of time. Because it is based on the impulse response for infinite edges, it inherits all aforementioned benefits associated with its primitive functions. Furthermore, it offers a substantial computational benefit compared to traditional integration formulas along the edge. Finally, the requirements for the direct application of the presented results to other impulse responses are discussed.
Perception and preference of reverberation in small listening rooms for multi-loudspeaker reproduction
Authors: Kaplanis Neofytos , Bech Søren , Lokki Tapio , van Waterschoot Toon , Holdt Jensen Søren
Published: November 2019

An experiment was conducted to identify the perceptual effects of acoustical properties of domestic listening environments, in a stereophonic reproduction scenario. Nine sound fields, originating from four rooms, were captured and spatially reproduced over a three-dimensional loudspeaker array. A panel of ten expert assessors identified and quantified the perceived differences of those sound fields using their own perceptual attributes. A multivariate analysis revealed two principal dimensions that could summarize the sound fields of this investigation. Four perceptual constructs seem to characterize the sensory properties of these dimensions, relating to Reverberance, Width & Envelopment, Proximity, and Bass. Overall, the results signify the importance of reverberation in residential listening environments on the perceived sensory experience, and as a consequence, the assessors' preferences towards certain decay times.
Social Withdrawal and Loneliness Among Older Adult Athletes: A Case for Playing Alone
Authors: Hill Melanie S. , Yorgason Jeremy B. , Nelson Larry J. , Jensen Alexander C.
Published: November 2019

Some older adults may not receive social connection due to social withdrawal, potentially resulting in loneliness. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between social withdrawal and loneliness, in the context of sports participation. The authors hypothesized that individuals who are more shy and avoidant would be more lonely than those who are less shy and avoidant, and that those who are unsocial would not necessarily be more lonely. The authors also hypothesized individual sport participation would further exacerbate loneliness over group sport participation. Results from participants in the Huntsman Senior Games (n = 374) indicated that as shyness, avoidance, and unsociability increased, loneliness increased as well. Furthermore, shy athletes in group sports reported higher levels of loneliness than those in individual sports. Although the authors seek to prevent individuals from being lonely in later life, there may be instances where removing oneself from a group is beneficial for mental health.
Central Activation Ratio Is a Reliable Measure for Gluteal Neuromuscular Function
Authors: Gilfeather Daniel , Norte Grant , Ingersoll Christopher D. , Glaviano Neal R.
Published: November 2019

Context: Central activation ratio (CAR) is a common outcome measure used to quantify gross neuromuscular function of the quadriceps using the superimposed burst technique, yet this outcome measure has not been validated in the gluteal musculature. Objective: To quantify gluteus medius (GMed) and gluteus maximus (GMax) CAR in a healthy population and evaluate its validity and reliability over a 1-week period. Design: Descriptive. Setting: Laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: A total of 20 healthy participants (9 males and 11 females; age 22.2 [1.4] y, height 173.4 [11.1] cm, mass 84.8 [25.8] kg) were enrolled in this study. Interventions: Participants were assessed at 2 sessions, separated by 1 week. Progressive electrical stimuli (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) were delivered to the GMed and GMax at rest, and 100% stimuli were delivered during progressive hip abduction and extension contractions (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% maximal voluntary isometric contraction). Main Outcome Measures: GMed and GMax CAR, and hip abduction and hip extension maximal voluntary isometric contraction torque. Line of best fit and coefficient of determination (r2) were used to assess the relationship between torque output and CAR at varying levels of stimuli. Intraclass correlation coefficients, ICCs(3,k), were used to assess the between-session reliability. Results: GMed CAR was 96.1% (3.4%) and 96.6% (3.2%), on visits 1 and 2, respectively, whereas GMax CAR was 86.5% (7.5%) and 87.2% (10.7%) over the 2 sessions. A third-order polynomial demonstrated the best line of fit between varying superimposed burst intensities at rest for both GMed (r2 = .156) and GMax (r2 = .602). Linear relationships were observed in the CAR during progressive contractions with a maximal superimposed burst, GMed (r2 = .409) and GMax (r2 = .639). Between-session reliability was excellent for GMed CAR, ICC(3,k) = .911, and moderate for GMax CAR, ICC(3,k) = .704. Conclusion: CAR appears to be an acceptable measure of GMed and GMax neuromuscular function in healthy individuals. Gluteal CAR measurements are reliable measures over a 1-week test period.
PKR-dependent cytosolic cGAS foci are necessary for intracellular DNA sensing
Authors: Hu Siqi , Sun Hong , Yin Lijuan , Li Jian , Mei Shan , Xu Fengwen , Wu Chao , Liu Xiaoman , Zhao Fei , Zhang Di , Huang Yu , Ren Lili , Cen Shan , Wang Jianwei , Liang Chen , Guo Fei
Published: November 2019

Intracellular DNA provokes cytoplasmic cGAS condensation, which requires the helicase G3BP1 and the RNA-dependent kinase PKR.
The human secretome
Authors: Uhlén Mathias , Karlsson Max J. , Hober Andreas , Svensson Anne-Sophie , Scheffel Julia , Kotol David , Zhong Wen , Tebani Abdellah , Strandberg Linnéa , Edfors Fredrik , Sjöstedt Evelina , Mulder Jan , Mardinoglu Adil , Berling Anna , Ekblad Siri , Dannemeyer Melanie , Kanje Sara , Rockberg Johan , Lundqvist Magnus , Malm Magdalena , Volk Anna-Luisa , Nilsson Peter , Månberg Anna , Dodig-Crnkovic Tea , Pin Elisa , Zwahlen Martin , Oksvold Per , von Feilitzen Kalle , Häussler Ragna S. , Hong Mun-Gwan , Lindskog Cecilia , Ponten Fredrik , Katona Borbala , Vuu Jimmy , Lindström Emil , Nielsen Jens , Robinson Jonathan , Ayoglu Burcu , Mahdessian Diana , Sullivan Devin , Thul Peter , Danielsson Frida , Stadler Charlotte , Lundberg Emma , Bergström Göran , Gummesson Anders , Voldborg Bjørn G. , Tegel Hanna , Hober Sophia , Forsström Björn , Schwenk Jochen M. , Fagerberg Linn , Sivertsson Åsa
Published: November 2019

A database provides information on the relative abundances and locations of human proteins that are predicted to be secreted.
The Nonmevalonate Pathway of Isoprenoid Biosynthesis Supports Anaerobic Growth of Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Lee Eric D. , Navas Kathleen I. , Portnoy Daniel A.
Published: November 2019

Isoprenoids are an essential and diverse class of molecules, present in all forms of life, that are synthesized from an essential common precursor derived from either the mevalonate pathway or the nonmevalonate pathway. Most bacteria have one pathway or the other, but the Gram-positive, facultative intracellular pathogen
Listeria monocytogenes
is unusual because it carries all the genes for both pathways.
Specific Anchoring and Local Translation of Poxviral ATI mRNA at Cytoplasmic Inclusion Bodies
Authors: Katsafanas George C. , Moss Bernard
Published: November 2019

Poxvirus genome replication, transcription, translation, and virion assembly occur at sites within the cytoplasm known as factories. Some poxviruses sequester infectious virions outside of the factories in inclusion bodies comprised of numerous copies of the 150-kDa ATI protein, which can provide stability and protection in the environment. We provide evidence that ATI mRNA is anchored by nascent peptides and translated at the inclusion sites rather than in virus factories. Association of ATI mRNA with inclusion bodies allows multiple rounds of local translation and prevents premature ATI protein aggregation and trapping of virions within the factory.
Pancreatic metastases to the colon: an unusual cause of colonic obstruction
Authors: Park Deborah Yae-jung , Krishnamurthi Smitha , Chahal Prabhleen , Downs-Kelly Erinn , Morris-Stiff Gareth
Published: November 2019

We report a case of a 73-year-old woman who developed pancreatic adenocarcinoma and presented with a colonic obstruction due to isolated metastasis to the colon, the primary lesion being diagnosed subsequently on imaging. The histopathological findings of the pancreatic mass exhibited a morphology and immunohistochemical profile consistent with a pancreatic adenocarcinoma and led to further analysis of the colonic pathology which ultimately confirmed the lesion was a pancreatic metastases rather than a primary colonic carcinoma. As the pancreatic cancer had metastasised to the colon, it was inoperable. The patient continued on palliative chemotherapy and passed 7 months after presentation for evaluation of her pancreatic mass due to progression of the pancreatic cancer. This report demonstrates a rare presentation of pancreatic cancer with colonic obstruction due to isolated metastatic disease and illustrated the importance of careful evaluation of histopathological findings.
Plantar vein thrombosis provoked by mechanical strain to the foot: a rare cause of plantar heel pain
Authors: Swellengrebel Herman Jan Christiaan , Backus Thijs , Zijta Frank Marinus , van der Zwaal Peer
Published: November 2019

A 61-year-old mountain hiker presented with acute pain of the medial-plantar aspect of the right foot. As the location, intensity and acute onset of the pain were atypical for fasciitis plantaris, an ultrasound was performed. This demonstrated a segmental plantar vein thrombosis (PVT), which was confirmed on consequent MRI. Patient was a non-smoker, without a medical or family history of coagulopathies. Four months previously, he suffered from metatarsalgia of the left, thus contralateral, foot, which prompted treatment with bilateral orthoses. In addition to metatarsal padding, medial-arch support was prescribed due to the presence of flexible flatfeet. Following internal medicine consultation, treatment consisted of discontinuing the use of orthoses, rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). At 2-week follow-up, the patient was pain-free. In this case report, PVT, a rare cause for plantar heel pain, is discussed. In addition, a summary of the diagnosis and treatment of PVT is outlined.
Atypical presentation ofClostridioides difficilepseudomembranous colitis with laboratory rejection of stool specimen
Authors: Tung William , Hays Rachel
Published: November 2019

Clostridioides(formerlyClostridium)difficileis a major cause of nocosomial infection in the USA and worldwide. It has a wide spectrum of presentation, ranging from an asymptomatic carrier state to fulminant colitis. Pseudomembranous colitis is a manifestation of severeC. difficileinfection (CDI), typically with progressive symptoms including watery diarrhoea, abdominal cramping and fevers and elevated white cell count and/or creatinine. It is diagnosed on three levels, including clinical assessment, stool assays and visualisation of the colonic mucosa. Laboratories will reject stools that do not meet criteria for testing. In the era of molecular testing for the presence of toxigenicC. difficileDNA, which only indicates the potential for infection, it is vital to use clinical evaluation in the diagnosis of CDI. We present an atypical case of pseudomembranous colitis affecting the right colon in a patient whose stools were rejected multiple times forC. difficiletesting.
Intussusception of a large circumferential caecal adenoma with ileocaecal valve consumption
Authors: Mthunzi Engelbert , Mullerat Pepe , Kubba Faris
Published: November 2019

We present a case of an unusually large, circumferential tubulovillous adenoma involving the terminal ileum and the caecum with ileocaecal valve consumption, presenting as intussusception in an otherwise healthy 90-year-old woman. The patient presented with several months of chronic symptoms of weight loss and diarrhoea. Clinical examination revealed a right-sided mass. Investigations revealed a large right-sided lesion suspicious of intussusception. The patient underwent a right-sided hemicolectomy where the intussusception was resected. Histology of the resected mass revealed a tubulovillous adenoma with focal invasive adenocarcinoma.
Shallow and deep failure mechanisms during uplift and lateral dragging of buried pipes in sand
Authors: Wu Jinbiao , Kouretzis George , Suwal Laxmi , Ansari Yousef , Sloan Scott W.
Published: November 2019

This paper presents results of a series of experiments modelling uplift and lateral drag of a rigid pipe buried in dry sand. The main aim of these tests is to document the gradual transition from shallow to a deep sand failure mechanism as the pipe embedment depth increases, identify which parameters affect this transition, and determine experimentally the critical embedment depth, beyond which the normalized reaction acting on the pipe remains constant with increasing pipe embedment. Measurements of the reaction as a function of the relative sand–pipe movement and analysis of images captured during the tests with the particle image velocimetry method suggest that the critical embedment depth depends on sand density, but not on the direction of pipe movement. Outcomes of this study contribute to identifying the limits of applicability of simplified methods used to determine the peak reaction on pipes subjected to ground movements and the estimation of rational parameters for the analysis of deeply buried pipes with beam-on-nonlinear Winkler foundation models.
TRIA-Net: 10 years of collaborative research on turning risk into action for the mountain pine beetle epidemic
Authors: James Patrick M.A. , Huber Dezene P.W.
Published: November 2019

Forest insects are showing increasing intensity of outbreaks and expanded ranges, and this has become a major challenge for forest managers. An understanding of these systems often depends upon detailed examination of complex interactions involving multiple organisms. In 2013, a team of researchers formed TRIA-Net, an NSERC support Strategic Network, with the explicit goal of exploring such interactions in the mountain pine beetle (MPB; Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins, 1902) – pine (Pinus sp.) – blue stain fungi (Ophiostomatales) system. Contributions of this network include novel genetic and genomic resources and insights, as well as exploration of how landscape structure affects MPB movements. This review highlights the unique contributions of TRIA-Net to our understanding of the MPB outbreak system. We also highlight how the insights we generated can be used to inform management strategies — including assessing stand susceptibility, predicting spread, and developing better monitoring approaches — and how the approach taken by the TRIA project can be used as a model for tackling other challenging forest insect outbreaks.
On the cosmological models with matter creation
Authors: Ivanov Rossen I. , Prodanov Emil M.
Published: November 2019

The matter creation model of Prigogine–Géhéniau–Gunzig–Nardone is revisited in terms of a redefined creation pressure which does not lead to irreversible adiabatic evolution at constant specific entropy. With the resulting freedom to choose a particular gas process, a flat FRWL cosmological model is proposed based on three input characteristics: (i) a perfect fluid comprising of an ideal gas, (ii) a quasi-adiabatic polytropic process, and (iii) a particular rate of particle creation. Such model leads to the description of the late-time acceleration of the expanding Universe with a natural transition from decelerating to accelerating regime. Only the Friedmann equations and the laws of thermodynamics are used and no assumptions of dark energy component is made. The model also allows the explicit determination as functions of time of all variables, including the entropy, the non-conserved specific entropy and the time the accelerating phase begins. A form of correspondence with the dark energy models (quintessence, in particular) is established via the Om diagnostics. Parallels with the concordance cosmological $$\Lambda $$ΛCDM model for the matter-dominated epoch and the present epoch of accelerated expansion are also established via slight modifications of both models.
Improved dynamic multiparty quantum direct secret sharing protocol based on generalized GHZ states to prevent collusion attack
Authors: Yang Chun-Wei , Tsai Chia-Wei
Published: November 2019

In 2018, Song et al. [Quantum Inf. Process 17, 244 (2018)] proposed a dynamic quantum direct secret sharing (DQDSS) protocol based on generalized GHZ states. However, this protocol is vulnerable to a security problem, known as the collusion attack, using which the dishonest agents can collude to reveal the master key without collaborating with other agents. This security problem, if unaddressed, can prevent the protocol from providing the secret sharing function. Therefore, this study proposes an improved DQDSS protocol to address the security problem in Song et al.’s DQDSS protocol. The proposed DQDSS protocol is resistant to the collusion attack and various other common attacks. Furthermore, the advantages of Song et al.’s DQDSS protocol are retained in the proposed scheme.
Synthesis of 1,2-dicyanoferrocene by cyanation reactions
Authors: Medina Diana-Paola , Fernández-Ariza Javier , Rodríguez-Morgade M. Salomé , Torres Tomás
Published: November 2019

We report two synthetic pathways for the preparation of 1,2-dicyanoferrocene, in a search for new dinitrile-based precursors that could be useful in the synthesis of metallocene-containing azaporphyrins, as well as in catalysis. Both procedures include cyanation reactions as the key steps. Magnesiation of cyanoferrocene, followed by reaction with electrophilic tosyl cyanide, affords the target compound in only two synthetic steps from ferrocene. In addition, 1,2-dicyanoferrocene can be prepared by a three step procedure, which implies a twofold cyanation of 1,2-dibromoferrocene, using Zn(CN)[Formula: see text], in a biphasic medium and in the presence of bulky [Formula: see text]-BuXPhos-Pd-G3.
The Holy Grail of "Systems for Machine Learning"
Authors: Arnaldo Ignacio , Veeramachaneni Kalyan
Published: November 2019

Although there is a large corpus of research focused on using machine learning to detect cyber threats, the solutions presented are rarely actually adopted in the real world. In this paper, we discuss the challenges that currently limit the adoption of machine learning in security operations, with a special focus on label acquisition, model deployment, and the integration of model findings into existing investigation workflows. Moreover, we posit that the conventional approach to the development of machine learning models, whereby researchers work offline on representative datasets to develop accurate models, is not valid for many cybersecurity use cases. Instead, a different approach is needed: to integrate the creation and maintenance of machine learning models into security operations themselves.
Intragastric administration of the bitter tastant quinine lowers the glycemic response to a nutrient drink without slowing gastric emptying in healthy men
Authors: Bitarafan Vida , Fitzgerald Penelope C. E. , Little Tanya J. , Meyerhof Wolfgang , Jones Karen L. , Wu Tongzhi , Horowitz Michael , Feinle-Bisset Christine
Published: November 2019

The rate of gastric emptying and the release of gastrointestinal (GI) hormones are major determinants of postprandial blood-glucose concentrations and energy intake. Preclinical studies suggest that activation of GI bitter-taste receptors potently stimulates GI hormones, including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and thus may reduce postprandial glucose and energy intake. We evaluated the effects of intragastric quinine on the glycemic response to, and the gastric emptying of, a mixed-nutrient drink and the effects on subsequent energy intake in healthy men. The study consisted of 2 parts: part A included 15 lean men, and part B included 12 lean men (aged 26 ± 2 yr). In each part, participants received, on 3 separate occasions, in double-blind, randomized fashion, intragastric quinine (275 or 600 mg) or control, 30 min before a mixed-nutrient drink ( part A) or before a buffet meal ( part B). In part A, plasma glucose, insulin, glucagon, and GLP-1 concentrations were measured at baseline, after quinine alone, and for 2 h following the drink. Gastric emptying of the drink was also measured. In part B, energy intake at the buffet meal was quantified. Quinine in 600 mg (Q600) and 275 mg (Q275) doses alone stimulated insulin modestly ( P < 0.05). After the drink, Q600 and Q275 reduced plasma glucose and stimulated insulin ( P < 0.05), Q275 stimulated GLP-1 ( P < 0.05), and Q600 tended to stimulate GLP-1 ( P = 0.066) and glucagon ( P = 0.073) compared with control. Quinine did not affect gastric emptying of the drink or energy intake. In conclusion, in healthy men, intragastric quinine reduces postprandial blood glucose and stimulates insulin and GLP-1 but does not slow gastric emptying or reduce energy intake under our experimental conditions.
Temporal tuning of repetition suppression across the visual cortex
Authors: Fritsche Matthias , Lawrence Samuel J. D. , de Lange Floris P.
Published: November 2019

The visual system adapts to its recent history. A phenomenon related to this is repetition suppression (RS), a reduction in neural responses to repeated compared with nonrepeated visual input. An intriguing hypothesis is that the timescale over which RS occurs across the visual hierarchy is tuned to the temporal statistics of visual input features, which change rapidly in low-level areas but are more stable in higher level areas. Here, we tested this hypothesis by studying the influence of the temporal lag between successive visual stimuli on RS throughout the visual system using functional (f)MRI. Twelve human volunteers engaged in four fMRI sessions in which we characterized the blood oxygen level-dependent response to pairs of repeated and nonrepeated natural images with interstimulus intervals (ISI) ranging from 50 to 1,000 ms to quantify the temporal tuning of RS along the posterior-anterior axis of the visual system. As expected, RS was maximal for short ISIs and decayed with increasing ISI. Crucially, however, and against our hypothesis, RS decayed at a similar rate in early and late visual areas. This finding challenges the prevailing view that the timescale of RS increases along the posterior-anterior axis of the visual system and suggests that RS is not tuned to temporal input regularities.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Visual areas show reduced neural responses to repeated compared with nonrepeated visual input, a phenomenon termed repetition suppression (RS). Here we show that RS decays at a similar rate in low- and high-level visual areas, suggesting that the short-term decay of RS across the visual hierarchy is not tuned to temporal input regularities. This may limit the specificity with which the mechanisms underlying RS could optimize the processing of input features across the visual hierarchy.
Simulation and Experimental Study on Drying Process of the Household Gas Clothes Dryer
Authors: Huang Xiao-mei , Zhao Yi , Liu Hui-qing
Published: November 2019

This paper analyzed the drying process of the household gas clothes dryer (GCD) based on the principle of heat and mass transfer. The drying models in three scenarios were established: natural gas burned in combustion chamber, ambient air mixed with exhausted gas in hot gas duct, and clothes were dried in the drying drum. The simulation of the drying process was performed on MATLAB software. And the effectiveness of the drying model was verified by comparison with experiment results. The effects of gas flow rate, dry mass of clothes, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, textile type, and moisture extraction rate (MER) on the performance of dryers were studied. This paper provided a theoretical basis for the design and optimization of GCDs. It was found that the drying time of the gas clothes dryer was mostly affected by the gas flow and dry mass of clothes, and the specific moisture extraction rate (SMER) was mostly affected by the ambient temperature and relative humidity. The nylon clothes have the fastest MER and the smallest SMER. Moreover, reducing operating time in falling‐rate drying period can improve energy efficiency.
Exploring the Role of Breast Density on Cancer Prognosis among Women Attending Population-Based Screening Programmes
Authors: Domingo Laia , Sala Maria , Louro Javier , Baré Marisa , Barata Teresa , Ferrer Joana , Carmona-Garcia Maria Carmen , Comas Mercè , Castells Xavier , CAMISS Study Group
Published: November 2019

Background. Our aim was to assess the role of breast density on breast cancer mortality and recurrences, considering patient and tumour characteristics and the treatments received among women attending population-based screening programmes.Methods. We conducted a retrospective cohort study among women aged 50–69 years attending population-based screening programmes, diagnosed with invasive breast cancer between 2000 and 2009, and followed up to 2014. Breast density was categorised as low density (≤25% dense tissue), intermediate density (25–50%), and high density (≥50%). Cox proportional hazards regression models were fitted to estimate the adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for death and recurrences, adjusting by patient characteristics, mode of detection (screen-detected vs. interval cancer), and tumour features.Results. The percentage of deaths and recurrences was higher among women with intermediate- and high-density breasts than among women with low-density breasts (p=0.011for death;p=0.037for recurrences). Adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression models revealed that women with intermediate- and high-density breasts had a higher risk of death than women with low-density breasts, being statistically significant for intermediate densities (aHR = 2.19 [95% CI: 1.16–4.13], aHR = 1.44 [95% CI: 0.67–3.1], respectively). No association was found between breast density and recurrences.Conclusions. Breast density was associated with a higher risk of death, but not of recurrences, among women participating in breast cancer screening. These findings reinforce the need to improve screening sensitivity among women with dense breasts and to routinely assess breast density, not only for its role as a risk factor for breast cancer but also for its potential influence on cancer prognosis.
Prototype Filter Design Based on Channel Estimation for FBMC/OQAM Systems
Authors: Liu Yongjin , Chen Xihong , Zhao Yu
Published: November 2019

A prototype filter design for FBMC/OQAM systems is proposed in this study. The influence of both the channel estimation and the stop‐band energy is taken into account in this method. An efficient preamble structure is proposed to improve the performance of channel estimation and save the frequency spectral efficiency. The reciprocal of the signal‐to‐interference plus noise ratio (RSINR) is derived to measure the influence of the prototype filter on channel estimation. After that, the process of prototype filter design is formulated as an optimization problem with constraint on the RSINR. To accelerate the convergence and obtain global optimal solution, an improved genetic algorithm is proposed. Especially, the History Network and pruning operator are adopted in this improved genetic algorithm. Simulation results demonstrate the validity and efficiency of the prototype filter designed in this study.
Analysis of a Single Server Retrial Queue with Server Vacation and Two Waiting Buffers Based on ATM Networks
Authors: Gao Shan , Wang Xianchao
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a discrete‐time Geo/G/1 retrial queue with two waiting buffers to model an ATM network, in which the server begins a single vacation in cases where the system is empty at the instant of a service completion. New arriving customer who finds the server being on vacation can decide to either enter the retrial buffer with some probability p or leave the system with complementary probability 1 − p. But the new arriving customer can begin its service immediately if he finds the server idle and join the original buffer if he finds the server busy. We first carry out an extensive analysis of the model by using the supplementary variable method and the generating function approach, and give some performance measures, such as server’s state probabilities and mean queue lengths in the original buffer, retrial buffer, and in the system. Secondly, we give the generating function of the sojourn time of a customer in the system and prove that Little’s law still holds in our model. Sensitivity analysis and cost optimization are finally given for illustrative purposes.
IKKβ Inhibitor IMD-0354 Attenuates Radiation Damage in Whole-body X-Irradiated Mice
Authors: Waga Kengo , Yamaguchi Masaru , Miura Shuta , Nishida Teruki , Itai Akiko , Nakanishi Reiko , Kashiwakura Ikuo
Published: November 2019

Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) transcription factor plays a critical role in regulating radiation-induced inflammatory and immune responses. Intracellular reactive oxygen species generation induces the activation of NF-κB via the inhibitor of κB (IκB) kinase (IKK) complex signaling. Previous studies have reported that the inhibition of IKK-driven NF-κB activation offers a therapeutic strategy for managing inflammatory disorders and various cancers, but it has additionally been reported that treatment targeting NF-κB also shows a radioprotective effect. IMD-0354 is an IKKβ inhibitor that blocks IκBα phosphorylation in the NF-κB pathway. This compound is known to exert anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects, but its radioprotective effects are unclear. Therefore, in the present study, we examined whether or not IMD-0354 has a mitigative effect on radiation-induced damages in mice. IMD-0354 was dissolved in soybean oil and subcutaneously administered to C57BL/6J Jcl mice for 3 consecutive days after 7 Gy of whole-body X-irradiation. The survival rate on day 30 and the NF-κB p65 and IκBα in bone marrow and spleen cells based on flow cytometry were assessed. IMD-0354 administration significantly suppressed the lethality induced by whole-body X-irradiation, and the survival rate increased by 83%. The NF-κB p65 and IκBα in bone marrow and spleen cells were significantly lower in IMD-0354-treated mice than in irradiated mice, suggesting that the IKKβ inhibitor IMD-0354 exerts a radiomitigative effect by suppressing the NF-κB.
Bilateral Ulnar-Sided Wrist Pain due to Pisiform-Hamate Coalition
Authors: Nolte Ingo , Mauler Flavien , Sánchez Tomás
Published: November 2019

Coalition between the pisiform and the hamate is a rare congenital anomaly, often presenting as an asymptomatic incidental finding on radiographs. In some cases, it may become symptomatic, typically after trauma. We present a 13-year-old patient, with no history of trauma, presenting a bilateral painful coalition of the pisiform and hamate. Both of which were treated with excision of the pisiform resulting in complete pain relief. Pisiform-hamate coalition is a rare condition, which can become symptomatic even without any trauma or overuse activity, and is an important differential diagnosis in ulnar-sided wrist pain.