bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectral Collocation Method for Fractional Differential/Integral Equations with Generalized Fractional Operator
Authors: Xu Qinwu , Zheng Zhoushun
Published: January 2019

Generalized fractional operators are generalization of the Riemann-Liouville and Caputo fractional derivatives, which include Erdélyi-Kober and Hadamard operators as their special cases. Due to the complicated form of the kernel and weight function in the convolution, it is even harder to design high order numerical methods for differential equations with generalized fractional operators. In this paper, we first derive analytical formulas for α-th  (α>0) order fractional derivative of Jacobi polynomials. Spectral approximation method is proposed for generalized fractional operators through a variable transform technique. Then, operational matrices for generalized fractional operators are derived and spectral collocation methods are proposed for differential and integral equations with different fractional operators. At last, the method is applied to generalized fractional ordinary differential equation and Hadamard-type integral equations, and exponential convergence of the method is confirmed. Further, based on the proposed method, a kind of generalized grey Brownian motion is simulated and properties of the model are analyzed.
A Performance Comparison of Centralized and Distributed Spectrum Management Techniques in Elastic Optical Networks
Authors: Mathur Tushar , Sahin Gokhan , Ucci Donald R.
Published: January 2019

Elastic optical networks (EONs) have emerged to provide higher spectrum efficiency than traditional Dense Wavelength-Division-Multiplexing (DWDM) by utilizing enabling technologies such as flexible spectrum grid, Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), and distance adaptive rate and modulation. The choice of the control-plane is an important consideration when deploying any new technology, especially in optical networks. This paper considers generic distributed and centralized spectrum assignment policies in conjunction with the accompanying connection set-up signaling protocols in EONs. A network simulator for Generalized Multiprotocol Label Switching (GMPLS) was developed with Forward Reservation Protocol and Backward Reservation Protocol signaling methods. These signaling techniques are used with the First Fit (FF) and Random Fit (RF) Routing and Spectrum Allocation (RSA) algorithms. The paper discusses control elements (central and distributed architectures) decisions under busy hour and normal network conditions and presents a comprehensive performance analysis of key performance metrics such as connection success rate, connection establishment time, and capacity requirement.
Prognostic Value of CD133 and SOX2 in Advanced Cancer
Authors: Han Susu , Huang Tao , Wu Xing , Wang Xiyu , Liu Shanshan , Yang Wei , Shi Qi , Li Hongjia , Hou Fenggang
Published: January 2019

Background. The prognostic value of CD133 and SOX2 expression in advanced cancer remains unclear. This study was first conducted to investigate the association between CD133 or SOX2 positivity and clinical outcomes for advanced cancer patients.Methods. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated to evaluate the correlation between CD133 or SOX2 positivity and overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), progression-free survival (PFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), or recurrence-free survival (RFS) from multivariable analysis. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was also performed.Results. 13 studies with 1358 cases (CD133) and five studies with 433 cases (SOX2) were identified. CD133 positivity was correlated with worse CSS and OS, but there was no correlation between CD133 positivity and DFS. SOX2 positivity was associated with poor DFS and RFS but was not linked to PFS. Stratified analysis by study source showed that only CD133 positivity can decrease OS for Chinese patients. Stratified analysis by treatment regimens indicated that CD133 positivity was linked to poor OS in patients treated with adjuvant therapy. TSA showed that additional studies were necessary.Conclusions. CD133 and SOX2 might be associated with worse prognosis in advanced cancer. More prospective studies are strongly needed.Impact. CD133 and SOX2 may be promising targeted molecular therapy for advanced cancer patients.
Software-Defined Edge Cloud Framework for Resilient Multitenant Applications
Authors: Liu Kaikai , Manangi Ravindrarao Nagthej , Gurudutt Abhishek , Kamaal Tejeshwar , Divakara Chinmayi , Prabhakaran Praveen
Published: January 2019

Edge application’s distributed nature presents significant challenges for developers in orchestrating and managing the multitenant applications. In this paper, we propose a practical edge cloud software framework for deploying multitenant distributed smart applications. Here we exploit commodity, a low cost embedded board to form distributed edge clusters. The cluster of geo-distributed and wireless edge nodes not only power multitenant IoT applications that are closer to the data source and the user, but also enable developers to remotely deploy and orchestrate application containers over the cloud. Specifically, we propose building a software platform to manage the distributed edge nodes along with support services to deploy and launch isolated and multitenant user applications through a lightweight container. In particular, we propose an architectural solution to improve the resilience of edge cloud services through peer collaborated service migration when the failures happen or when resources are overburdened. We focus on giving the developers a single point control of the infrastructure over the intermittent and lossy wide area networks (WANs) and enabling the remote deployment of multitenant applications.
Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer (EVOH) as a Functional Barrier against Surrogate Components Migrating from Paperboard
Authors: Maes Caroline , Yuki Junior Giberto Mitsuyoshi , Teniers Cynthia , Luyten Wout , Herremans Geert , Peeters Roos , Samyn Pieter , Carleer Robert , Buntinx Mieke
Published: January 2019

Ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) is a key material of interest as a functional barrier against substances migrating from recycled paperboard, due to its outstanding barrier properties. Three multilayer films containing two different grades of EVOH, L171B (3 µm) and F171B (3 and 5 µm), were benchmarked against a multilayer film containing polyamide 6/6.6 copolymer (PA 6/6.6, 3 µm) and monolayer polyethylene terephthalate (PET, 12 µm). The 5 films were evaluated as barrier materials against 5 surrogate substances simulating different migrants potentially present in recycled paperboard: n-heptadecane (C17) as a mineral oil-saturated hydrocarbon (MOSH), 4-methylbenzophenone (MBP) as a photoinitiator, di-n-propyl phthalate (DPP) as a plasticiser, and anthracene (ANT) and perylene (PER) as mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAHs). The test was accelerated at 60°C for 25 days, which is equivalent to a shelf life of 2 years at 25°C. All films containing 3 or 5 µm EVOH were found to be good barriers, showing no breakthrough values over 1% of the initial concentration found in the paperboard, and they could easily compete with 12 µm PET. The multilayer with 3 µm PA 6/6.6 showed higher breakthrough values for both MBP and DPP than the other materials although still below the 1% threshold value. However, ANT showed substantial breakthrough values of nearly 2%, indicating that PA 6/6.6 might not offer enough protection against low-weight MOAH components.
Accuracy of Anthropometric Equations to Estimate DXA-Derived Skeletal Muscle Mass in Professional Male Soccer Players
Authors: González-Mendoza Roberto Gabriel , Gaytán-González Alejandro , Jiménez-Alvarado Juan Antonio , Villegas-Balcázar Marisol , Jáuregui-Ulloa Edtna E. , Torres-Naranjo Francisco , López-Taylor Juan R.
Published: January 2019

Background. Several anthropometric equations that estimate skeletal muscle mass (SMM) have been published, but their applicability and accuracy among athletes are still uncertain. Purpose. To assess the accuracy of different anthropometric equations that estimate SMM in professional male soccer players, as compared to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) as the reference method. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated 179 professional male soccer players aged between 18 and 37 years. Anthropometric measurements (height, body weight, skinfold thicknesses, and girths) and a DXA whole body scan were performed the same day for each participant, and SMM was estimated with nine anthropometric equations (Heymsfield, Martin, Doupe, Kerr, Drinkwater, Lee, De Rose, and two equations published by Kuriyan). To determine differences between SMM estimated with anthropometric equations and SMM evaluated with DXA, a Kruskal-Wallis test was performed using Dunn’s test as post hoc. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. We calculated the mean difference and 95% limits of agreement for the analyzed equations (Equation – DXA). Results. Only Heymsfield’s and Lee’s equations showed no significant differences with DXA. Heymsfield’s equation had the smallest mean difference (-0.17 kg), but wider limits of agreement with DXA (-6.61 to 6.94 kg). Lee’s equation had a small mean difference (1.10 kg) but narrower limits of agreement with DXA (-1.83 to 4.03 kg). Conclusions. In this study, the prediction equation published by Lee et al. showed the best agreement with DXA and is able to estimate SMM accurately in professional male soccer players.
RASGRP2 Suppresses Apoptosis via Inhibition of ROS Production in Vascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Sato Takuma , Takino Jun-ichi , Nagamine Kentaro , Nishio Kazuto , Hori Takamitsu
Published: January 2019

We have identified ras guanyl releasing protein 2 (rasgrp2) as a blood vessel related gene from Xenopus embryo. In addition, we reported that RASGRP2 is also expressed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). It is known that RASGRP2 activates Ras-related protein 1 (Rap1). However, the function of RASGRP2 in human vascular endothelium remains unknown. Therefore, we performed functional analysis of RASGRP2 using immortalized HUVEC (TERT HUVEC). We established a stable RASGRP2 overexpressing cell line (TERT HUVEC R) and mock cell line (mock). Furthermore, we compared the activity of Rap1 and the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), which is related to cell death, in both cell lines. Significant increase in Rap1 activity was observed in the TERT HUVEC R compared to the mock. Furthermore, apoptosis by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) stimulation was significantly more reduced in the TERT HUVEC R than in the mock. In the mock, apoptosis induced by TNF-α stimulation was decreased by pretreatment with diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), which is an inhibitor of NADPH oxidase (NOX). However, in the TERT HUVEC R, apoptosis induced by TNF-α stimulation was not reduced after pretreatment of DPI. Furthermore, there was no reduction in ROS production in the TERT HUVEC R after DPI pretreatment. In addition, the difference in the degree of apoptosis induced by TNF-α stimulation in both cell lines was consistent with the difference in ROS production in the cell lines. From these results, it was suggested that RASGRP2 activates Rap1 and the activated Rap1 suppresses apoptosis via NOX inhibition.
Histological, Genotoxic, and Biochemical Effects onCnesterodon decemmaculatus(Jenyns 1842) (Cyprinodontiformes, Poeciliidae): Early Response Bioassays to Assess the Impact of Receiving Waters
Authors: Ossana Natalia Alejandra , Baudou Federico Gastón , Castañé Patricia Mónica , Tripoli Luis , Soloneski Sonia , Ferrari Lucrecia
Published: January 2019

In the present study, the toxicity of receiving waters from a highly polluted urban watercourse, the Reconquista River, Argentina, collected at a dam in the upstream part of the river was evaluated.Cnesterodon decemmaculatus,a widely distributed fish species in Pampasic rivers proposed for use in ecotoxicological evaluations, was used as a test organism. A 96-h acute toxicity bioassay with river water quality which has been characterized as moderately contaminated was performed. The treatment groups were (1) whole surface river water; (2) whole surface river water with 2 mg Cd/L added as a simulated metal contaminant pulse; (3) a negative control using reconstituted moderately hard water (MHW); (4) a metal positive control, MHW + 2 mg Cd/L; and (5) a positive genotoxicity control, MHW + 5 mg Cyclophosphamide/L (CP). The condition factor rate, micronuclei frequency, and comet assay from peripherical blood, structural changes of the gill arrangement by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis, histopathological changes in the liver and the glutathione-S-transferase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and protein content from the body midsection (viscera) were evaluated. According to our results, for short term exposure, SEM analyses of gills and liver histopathological analyses could be useful tools for the evaluation of target organ damage as well as comet assays for DNA damage. We propose that the 96-h laboratory bioassay protocol described is useful for monitoring the deterioration of water quality employing the teleostC. decemmaculatusand that the microscope analysis of gills and liver as well as the comet assay methodology could be sensitive endpoint indicators.
Optimal Decisions for Carbon Emission Reduction through Technological Innovation in a Hybrid-Channel Supply Chain with Consumers’ Channel Preferences
Authors: Xin Chong , Zhou Yunzhu , Zhu Xiaochen , Li Lin , Chen Xin
Published: January 2019

This paper integrates carbon emission reduction via technological innovation with consumer channel preferences in both single- and dual-channel supply chains selling low-carbon products. Linear demand functions which simultaneously reflect the consumers’ channel preferences and low-carbon sensitivity are developed by considering the consumers’ segmentation. On this basis, we present two Stackelberg game models: one for each of the single- and dual-channel supply chains. In the first, the manufacturer sells low-carbon products through a traditional retailer who has a physical store, while in the second the manufacturer opens an online direct channel to compete with the traditional retailer. For the two models developed, the optimal pricing decisions, carbon emission reduction level, and profits are derived and discussed. Numerical examples are given to verify the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed models and solutions. The results show that supply chain members’ profits are affected by system parameters such as the carbon price, consumers’ low-carbon sensitivity, channel preference, etc. Furthermore, although the aforementioned parameters stimulate the manufacturer to reduce carbon emission, this does not always benefit the retailer. Comparison of the two models indicates that dual-channel selling is only the better choice for both the manufacturer and the retailer under certain conditions.
The Discriminative Lexicon: A Unified Computational Model for the Lexicon and Lexical Processing in Comprehension and Production Grounded Not in (De)Composition but in Linear Discriminative Learning
Authors: Baayen R. Harald , Chuang Yu-Ying , Shafaei-Bajestan Elnaz , Blevins James P.
Published: January 2019

The discriminative lexicon is introduced as a mathematical and computational model of the mental lexicon. This novel theory is inspired by word and paradigm morphology but operationalizes the concept of proportional analogy using the mathematics of linear algebra. It embraces the discriminative perspective on language, rejecting the idea that words’ meanings are compositional in the sense of Frege and Russell and arguing instead that the relation between form and meaning is fundamentally discriminative. The discriminative lexicon also incorporates the insight from machine learning that end‐to‐end modeling is much more effective than working with a cascade of models targeting individual subtasks. The computational engine at the heart of the discriminative lexicon is linear discriminative learning: simple linear networks are used for mapping form onto meaning and meaning onto form, without requiring the hierarchies of post‐Bloomfieldian ‘hidden’ constructs such as phonemes, morphemes, and stems. We show that this novel model meets the criteria of accuracy (it properly recognizes words and produces words correctly), productivity (the model is remarkably successful in understanding and producing novel complex words), and predictivity (it correctly predicts a wide array of experimental phenomena in lexical processing). The discriminative lexicon does not make use of static representations that are stored in memory and that have to be accessed in comprehension and production. It replaces static representations by states of the cognitive system that arise dynamically as a consequence of external or internal stimuli. The discriminative lexicon brings together visual and auditory comprehension as well as speech production into an integrated dynamic system of coupled linear networks.
Influence of Crystallization Time on Energy-Storage Density and Efficiency of Lead-Free Bi0.5(Na0.8K0.2)0.5TiO3 Thin Films
Authors: Quan Ngo Duc , Toan Tran Quoc , Hung Vu Ngoc
Published: January 2019

Lead-free Bi0.5(Na0.80K0.20)0.5TiO3 (BNKT) ferroelectric films were synthesized on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates via chemical solution deposition. The influence of crystallization time on the microstructures and ferroelectric and energy-storage properties of the films was investigated in detail. The XRD analysis showed that the BNKT films have well crystallized corresponding to the single-phase perovskite structure at 700°C. Ferroelectric and energy-storage properties of the films were significantly enhanced by increasing crystallization time. With crystallization time of 60 min, the remnant polarization (Pr), maximum polarization (Pm), and Pm-Pr values reached the highest values of 7.9 µC/cm2, 28.9 µC/cm2, and 21.0 µC/cm2, respectively, under the electric field of 400 kV/cm. Thanks to the strong enhancement in Pm and the large Pma-Pr value, the highest recoverable energy-storage density (Jreco) gets the value of 2.9 J/cm3. The obtained results indicate that the BNKT films have application potentials in advanced capacitors.
Effect of Employees’ Values on Employee Satisfaction in Japanese Retail and Service Industries
Authors: Matsuki Tomonori , Nakamura Jun
Published: January 2019

The Japanese workforce has decreased rapidly over the past few decades, and this is expected to continue. Retail and service industries are already experiencing human-resource shortages. In these industries, nonregular employees feature prominently. For most companies, recruitment is difficult, and employees change jobs often, making securing staff an important business issue. Nonregular and regular employees are treated differently; the problem is thus partly social in nature. However, some nonregular employees are content, although their work conditions are not good. Here, text mining was used to explore differences between the values of regular and nonregular employees in the retail and service industries.
Inverse Dynamics Based Optimal Fuzzy Controller for a Robot Manipulator via Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Mahmoodabadi M. J. , Ziaei A.
Published: January 2019

This paper endeavors to contribute to the field of optimal control via presenting an optimal fuzzy Proportional Derivative (PD) controller for a RPP (Revolute-Prismatic-Prismatic) robot manipulator based on particle swarm optimization and inverse dynamics. The Denavit-Hartenberg approach and the Jacobi method for each of the arms of the robot are employed in order to gain the kinematic equations of the manipulator. Furthermore, the Lagrange method is utilized to obtain the dynamic equations of motion. Hence, in order to control the dynamics of the robot manipulator, inverse dynamics and a fuzzy PD controller optimized via particle swarm optimization are used in this research study. The obtained results of the optimal fuzzy PD controller based on the inverse dynamics are compared to the outcomes of the PD controller, and it is illustrated that the optimal fuzzy PD controller shows better controlling performance in comparison with other controllers.
The Concentration of Micronutrients and Heavy Metals in Maternal Serum, Placenta, and Cord Blood: A Cross-Sectional Study in Preterm Birth
Authors: Irwinda Rima , Wibowo Noroyono , Putri Atikah Sayogo
Published: January 2019

Background. Preterm birth is still a global burden particularly in Indonesia. The suboptimal concentration of certain micronutrients and heavy metals is hypothesized to play a role in the mechanism of preterm birth. Objective. This study aimed to analyze the micronutrients and heavy metals concentrations between subjects with term and preterm birth. Design. A cross-sectional study was conducted during January–June 2017 in Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital and Budi Kemuliaan Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia. Subjects were divided into term and preterm birth groups. The measured outcomes were maternal serum, placental, and blood cord concentration of zinc, copper, iron, selenium, manganese, mercury, lead, AtRA, and 25(OH)D. Results. A total of 51 pregnant women participated in this study. Term group had higher concentration of maternal serum AtRA (0.22 ± 0.07 ng/mL versus 0.12 ± 0.03 ng/mL, p <0.001), higher placental concentration of manganese {0.99 (0.38 – 1.78) μg/g versus 0.42 ± 0.18 μg/g, p <0.001}, iron (252.16 ± 170.61 μg/g versus 78.45 ± 51.73 μg/g, p <0.001), copper {2.96 ± 1.80 μg/g versus 1.62 (0.70 – 3.88) μg/g, p 0.019}, zinc {58.34 (27.88 – 124.05) μg/g versus 28.41 (1.46 – 137.69) μg/g, p 0.011}, selenium (0.31 ± 0.31 ng/g versus 0.14 ± 0.20 ng/g, p 0.024), AtRA {21.7 ± 10.69 ng/g versus 0.7 (0.42 – 5.10) ng/g, p <0.001}, and 25(OH)D {75.84 ± 45.12 ng/g versus 18.00 (5 – 88) ng/g, p <0.001}, lower placental concentration of mercury (0.20 ± 0.17 ng/g versus 20.47 ± 41.35 ng/g, p 0.019) and lead (0.02 ± 0.01 ng/g versus 0.81 ± 1.43 ng/g, p 0.009), and higher cord blood concentration of copper {32.20 (16.30 – 69.60) μg/dL versus 20.60 (5.80 – 53.30) μg/dL, p 0.006} and AtRA (0.16 ± 0.04 versus 0.07 ± 0.01, p <0.001). Conclusion. Preterm birth is associated with lower concentrations of micronutrients which play a role in antioxidant mechanism, as well as higher concentration of mercury and lead.
Analysis of the Dynamic Impact Mechanical Characteristics of Prestressed Saturated Fractured Coal and Rock
Authors: Wang Wen , Zhang Shiwei , Li Huamin , Gong Shuang , Liu Zhumeng
Published: January 2019

The natural and water‐saturated states of coal samples under static and static‐dynamic loads were tested using the Split‐Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) method and RMT‐150 system, respectively. The differences in the strength reduction coefficient and elastic modulus reduction coefficient of water‐saturated coal samples under static and static‐dynamic loads were discussed. The experimental results for coal were compared with the corresponding characteristics of typical sandstone samples under static and static‐dynamic loads. Furthermore, a fracture model of a hydrous wing branch fracture under static‐dynamic loading was established based on the theory of fracture damage mechanics. The difference in dynamic strength between coal and sandstone samples for both the natural state and water‐saturated state was analyzed. On this basis, the effect of water on the fracture surface of coal and the tensile strength and shear strength of the branch fracture surface were fully considered. In addition, criteria of the branch fracture surface for crack initiation and crack arrest were also established. Finally, the phenomenon of increasing elastic modulus in saturated coal samples was explained with this criterion.
How to Efficiently Produce Ultrapure Acids
Authors: Monticelli Damiano , Castelletti Alessio , Civati Davide , Recchia Sandro , Dossi Carlo
Published: January 2019

Subboiling distillation has been used since two decades for the purification of analytical grade acids from inorganic contaminants and demonstrated an efficient method to obtain pure acids starting from reagent grade chemicals. Nevertheless, the effect of the subboiling parameters on the purity of the distilled acids has never been methodically investigated. Aim of the present research is a systematic evaluation of the subboiling distillation protocol for the production of pure hydrochloric and nitric acid. In particular, the effect of the subboiling temperature and the number of subsequent distillations was investigated as these parameters were recognised as the most important factors controlling acid purity, acid concentration, and distillation yield. The concentration of twenty elements in the purified acids was determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry. As a result, the subboiling temperature (up to 82°C) and the number of subsequent distillations (up to four) were demonstrated not to affect the purity of the distilled nitric and hydrochloric acids. Under normal laboratory conditions, the residual elemental concentrations were in most cases below 10 ng/L in both nitric (2.75% w/w) and hydrochloric (0.1 M) blanks. Ultrapure nitric and hydrochloric acids could accordingly be produced under the most favorable conditions, i.e., the highest temperature and one distillation process only.
An Orlicz-Besov Poincaré Inequality via John Domains
Authors: Sun Hongyan
Published: January 2019

Denote byB˙⁎α,ϕ(Ω)the intrinsic Orlicz-Besov space, whereα∈R,ϕis a Young function, andΩ⊂Rnis a domain. Forα∈(-n,0)and optimalϕ, via John domains, we establish criteria for bounded domainsΩ⊂Rnsupporting an Orlicz-Besov Poincaré inequality.‖u-uΩ‖Ln/|α|(Ω)≤C‖u‖B˙⁎α,ϕ(Ω)  ∀u∈B˙⁎α,ϕ(Ω).This extends the known criteria for bounded domains supporting Sobolev-Poincaré inequality and its fractional analogue.
Dynamic Soft Real-Time Scheduling with Preemption Threshold for Streaming Media
Authors: Wang Wenle , Wang Yuan , Dai JiangYan , Cao Zhonghua
Published: January 2019

Over the last decades, the advancements in networking technology and new multimedia devices have motivated the research on efficient video streaming mechanisms under wireless. We consider combing soft real-time video streaming scheduling with threshold to minimize the ineffective preemption. Based on the value density and urgency of soft real-time task, the dynamic scheduling with preemption threshold strategy (DSPT) is proposed in the paper. By analyzing the response time and preemption relationship of tasks, the preemption thresholds are assigned. Simulation results show that the DSPT strategy achieves improvements about success rate, delay time, and benefit of the system.
Detecting Damage in Thin Plates by Processing Infrared Thermographic Data with Topological Derivatives
Authors: Pena M. , Rapún M.-L.
Published: January 2019

A thermogram is a color image produced by a thermal camera where each color level represents a different radiation intensity (temperature). In this paper, we study the use of steady and time-harmonic thermograms for structural health monitoring of thin plates. Since conductive heat transfer is short range and the associated signal–to–noise ratio is not much favorable, efficient data processing tools are required to successfully interpret thermograms. We will process thermograms by a mathematical tool called topological derivative, showing its efficiency in very demanding situations where thermograms are highly polluted by noise, and/or when the parameters of the medium fluctuate randomly. An exhaustive gallery of numerical simulations will be presented to assess the performance and limitations of this tool.
Effect of Kangxianling Decoction on Expression of TGF-β1/Smads and Extracellular Matrix Deposition
Authors: Ji Jing , He Liqun
Published: January 2019

Kangxianling (KXL) decoction is a traditional Chinese herbal formulation which has been used to treat early and midterm chronic renal failure. Renal fibrosis is a common characteristic of progressive chronic kidney diseases (CKD). The formation of renal fibrosis is caused by kidney trauma, infection, and immune response. The pathophysiological mechanism of renal fibrosis was mainly due to increased collagen synthesis in the kidney, decreased degradation, and a large amount of extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. The purpose of this study was intended to evaluate the effect of Kangxianling decoction on expression of TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway in renal fibrosis rats. 50 specific pathogen-free Sprague Dawley (SPF SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups: control group, sham group, 5/6 nephrectomy model group, 5/6 nephrectomy model plus KXL decoction (21g /kg) group, and 5/6 nephrectomy model plus Losartan Potassium (LP) (33.3 g/kg) group. The rats were all sacrificed after two months and the left kidney tissue was sampled. HE staining was used to observe the renal pathological changes and the score of kidney damage was made. Masson staining was used to observe the degree of renal fibrosis. Immunohistochemical staining, western blot, and qRT-PCR were used to detect the expression levels of related molecules in TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. The results suggested that KXL could lighten renal histopathology damage, downregulate the expression of TGF-β1 (transforming growth factor-β1), Smad2/3, CTGF (connective tissue growth factor), Collagen I, and Collagen III, and upregulate the expression level of Smad7.
The Therapeutic Strategies of Regulatory T Cells in Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantations
Authors: Zaini Rana G. , Al-Rehaili Amani A.
Published: January 2019

Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) are considered one of the main dynamic cell types within the immune system. Because Treg cells suppress immune responses, they have potential roles in immunological self-tolerance and may help to maintain immune homeostasis. Promoting Treg cell function and increasing their numbers might be useful in treating autoimmune disorders, as well as preventing allograft rejection. However, studies of mice and humans demonstrate that Treg cells promote cancer progression and suppress antitumor immunity. Therefore, suppressing Treg cell function or reducing their numbers could support the immune system’s response to pathogenic microorganisms and tumors. As a result, there is great interest in investigating the Treg cells role in the treatment of hematological and nonhematological malignancies. Consequently, Treg cells could be a fundamentally important target for pathologies of the immune system. Targeting effector Treg cells could help to distinguish and selectively decrease these cells while preserving other Treg cells needed to suppress autoimmunity. Currently, a promising way to treat malignancies and other autoimmune disorders is stem cell transplantation. Stem cell transplants (SCT) can help to manage the production of Treg cells and also may produce more efficient Treg cells, thereby suppressing clinical disease progression. Specifically, mature T cells within the engrafted stem cells mediate this SCT beneficial effect. During SCT, the recipient’s immune system is replaced with a donor, which allows for improved immune system function. In addition, SCT can protect from disease relapse, as graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) in transplant patients can be protective against cancer recurrence. The current review will define the role of regulatory T cells in treatment of malignancy. Additionally, it will summarize current promising research regarding the utility of regulatory T cells in stem cell transplantation.
Vaginal Dysplasia and HIV: An African American and Caribbean American Cohort Study
Authors: Duthely Lunthita M. , Carugno Jose A. , Suthumphong Cayla Y. , Feldman Erica B. , Potter JoNell E.
Published: January 2019

Background. Vaginal cancer is a rare disease with poor clinical outcomes and limited therapeutic options. In the United States (US), minority women and older women are disproportionately diagnosed with late-stage vaginal cancer. Sociodemographic characteristics, risk behaviors, and cooccurring conditions are linked to vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VaIN). The diagnosis of VaIN is more prevalent among older women and women living with HIV (WLWH). The Caribbean basin has one of the highest rates of anogenital cancers in the Western Hemisphere. In the US, vaginal infections are more prevalent among Caribbean women, and these infections contribute to higher rates of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Given the high rate of anogenital cancers in the Caribbean and the high rates of HPV among Caribbean women in the US, we sought to describe the occurrence of VaIN in a cohort of Black non-Hispanic WLWH. The cohort was followed by an interdisciplinary team of providers with the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine. Results. Caribbean Americans were living with HIV longer and more were uninsured; more African Americans endorsed cigarette and illicit substance use. Caribbean Americans trended towards the highest grades of VaIN (VaIN 2+) at baseline, but more African Americans progressed to VaIN 2+ in subsequent biopsies. Conclusion. In this cohort of Caribbean American and African American women living with HIV diagnosed with VaIN, Caribbean Americans had the highest grade of VaIN at baseline, but more African Americans progressed to more advanced stages of the disease.
Rediscovering Medicinal Amazonian Aromatic Plants: Piper carpunya (Piperaceae) Essential Oil as Paradigmatic Study
Authors: Ballesteros José L. , Tacchini Massimo , Spagnoletti Antonella , Grandini Alessandro , Paganetto Guglielmo , Neri Luca Maria , Marengo Arianna , Angiolella Letizia , Guerrini Alessandra , Sacchetti Gianni
Published: January 2019

Piper carpunya Ruiz & Pav. (Piperaceae) is a perennial aromatic shrub of Amazonian area of Ecuador and Peru, belonging to the ethnomedicine of these countries. The traditional preparations of the crude drug (fresh leaves used topically as is, and dried leaves in infusions or decoctions) are known for anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antidiarrheal, antiparasitic effects, and wound healing properties. In light of this traditional evidence, chemical composition (GC-MS) and biological activity, i.e., antioxidant, antifungal (yeast) capacities, and genotoxicity, of Amazonian P. carpunya leaf essential oil (EO) have been investigated in order to valorize some of the putative ethnomedical effects. The EO was obtained through steam distillation of fresh leaves (yield: 7.6 g/kg [0.76%]; refractive index at 20°C: 1.49; density: 0.928 g/mL). Chemical characterization performed through GC-MS evidenced the presence of 21 compounds (96.2% of the total). The most abundant constituents were piperitone (26.2%), limonene (9.5%), elemicin (7.2%), and β-phellandrene (5.6%). In vitro DPPH antioxidant assay showed a weak radical scavenging ability (IC50) if compared to positive control. Low bioactivity of the EO was also demonstrated against yeast, but it showed an interesting synergistic activity (FIC index of EO+fluconazole) against Candida sp. strains. Ames test evidenced the safety of the EO concerning genotoxicity.
Wear Inducing Phase Transformation of Plasma Transfer Arc Coated Tools during Friction Stir Welding with Al Alloy
Authors: Chen Kuan-Jen , Hung Fei-Yi , Lui Truan-Sheng , Shih Yong-Ren
Published: January 2019

The friction stir welding process (friction stir welding/processing, FSW/FSP) has wear problems related to stirring tools. In this study, the plasma transfer arc (PTA) method was used with stellite 1 powders (Co-based) to coat on the head of a SKD61 stirring tool (SKD61-ST1) in order to investigate the wear performance and phase transformation of SKD61-ST1 after FSW. Under the same experimental parameters, the wear data were compared with the high-speed steel SKH51 (tempering material SKH51-T and annealed material SKH51-A) and tungsten-carbide cobalt (TCC). Results showed the PTA coating was a γ-Co solidification matrix with M7C3 and M23C6 carbides. After FSW, the wear resistance of SKD61-ST1 was better than that of SKH51-A and SKH51-T and lower than that of TCC. The SKD61-ST1, SKH51-A, and SKH51-T stirring tools exhibited sliding wear after FSP, where the pin and shoulder of the stirring tool formed a phase transfer layer on the surface, and the peeling of the phase transfer layer caused wear weight loss. The main phase of the phase transfer layer of the SKD61-ST1 tool was Al9Co2. The affinity and adhesion energy of the Co-Al phase was lower than that of Fe-Al phase, and the phase transfer layer of the SKD61-ST1 tool was thinner and had lower coverage, thereby increasing the wear resistance of the SKD61-ST1 stirring tools during FSW.
An Analytical Evaluation of the Synergistic Effect on Biodiesel Oxidation Stability Promoted by Binary and Ternary Blends Containing Multifunctional Additives
Authors: Yahagi Silvia S. , Roveda Ana C. , Sobral Adrielli T. , Oliveira Ivan P. , Caires Anderson R. L. , Gomes Roberto S. , Trindade Magno A. G.
Published: January 2019

The antioxidant potential of a novel additive, named maleimide p-CH3, and the synergistic effect on biodiesel stabilization when combined with a traditional synthetic antioxidant (e.g., propyl gallate (PG)) as well as alternative additives (e.g., alizarin (ALZ) and citric acid (CA)) were investigated. The additives were combined in binary and/or ternary blends at low concentrations and their effectiveness against soybean biodiesel oxidation in the absence and presence of metal was tested. The effectiveness of binary and ternary blends was also evaluated by the Rancimat® method and compared with total acid number (TAN). The results showed that the combinations presented synergetic effects and were effective in stabilizing biodiesel in accordance with the minimum requirements of EN 14214 and also revealed that the mixture containing PG and p-CH3, even at low concentrations, can be successfully applied for biodiesel preservation. In summary, we report that the biodiesel stability can be obtained by using a reduced amount of additives, suggesting that biodiesel shelf life can be improved in association with a cost reduction when compared to the use of conventional antioxidants.
Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks: A Review of Recent Issues and Challenges
Authors: Awan Khalid Mahmood , Shah Peer Azmat , Iqbal Khalid , Gillani Saira , Ahmad Waqas , Nam Yunyoung
Published: January 2019

Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks (UWSNs) contain several components such as vehicles and sensors that are deployed in a specific acoustic area to perform collaborative monitoring and data collection tasks. These networks are used interactively between different nodes and ground-based stations. Presently, UWSNs face issues and challenges regarding limited bandwidth, high propagation delay, 3D topology, media access control, routing, resource utilization, and power constraints. In the last few decades, research community provided different methodologies to overcome these issues and challenges; however, some of them are still open for research due to variable characteristics of underwater environment. In this paper, a survey of UWSN regarding underwater communication channel, environmental factors, localization, media access control, routing protocols, and effect of packet size on communication is conducted. We compared presently available methodologies and discussed their pros and cons to highlight new directions of research for further improvement in underwater sensor networks.
Stability of Traveling Waves to the Lotka‐Volterra Competition Model
Authors: Alhasanat Ahmad , Ou Chunhua
Published: January 2019

In this paper, the stability of traveling wave solutions to the Lotka‐Volterra diffusive model is investigated. First, we convert the model into a cooperative system by a special transformation. The local and the global stability of the traveling wavefronts are studied in a weighted functional space. For the global stability, comparison principle together with the squeezing technique is applied to derive the main results.
Robust Shrinkage Range Estimation Algorithms Based on Hampel and Skipped Filters
Authors: Park Chee-Hyun , Chang Joon-Hyuk
Published: January 2019

Herein, we present robust shrinkage range estimation algorithms for which received signal strength measurements are used to estimate the distance between emitter and sensor. The concepts of robustness for the Hampel filter and skipped filter are combined with shrinkage for the positive blind minimax and Bayes shrinkage estimation. It is demonstrated that the estimation accuracies of the proposed methods are higher than those of the existing median-based shrinkage methods through extensive simulations.
Yukawa Potential Orbital Energy: Its Relation to Orbital Mean Motion as well to the Graviton Mediating the Interaction in Celestial Bodies
Authors: Martz Connor , Van Middelkoop Sheldon , Gkigkitzis Ioannis , Haranas Ioannis , Kotsireas Ilias
Published: January 2019

Research on gravitational theories involves several contemporary modified models that predict the existence of a non-Newtonian Yukawa-type correction to the classical gravitational potential. In this paper we consider a Yukawa potential and we calculate the time rate of change of the orbital energy as a function of the orbital mean motion for circular and elliptical orbits. In both cases we find that there is a logarithmic dependence of the orbital energy on the mean motion. Using that, we derive an expression for the mean motion as a function of the Yukawa orbital energy, as well as specific Yukawa potential parameters. Furthermore, various special cases are examined. Lastly, expressions for the Yukawa range λ and coupling constant α are also derived. Finally, an expression for the mass of the graviton mgr mediating the interaction is calculated using the expression its Compton wavelength (i.e., the potential range λ). Numerical estimates for the mass of the graviton mediating the interaction are finally obtained at various eccentricity values and in particular at the perihelion and aphelion points of Mercury’s orbit around the sun.
The Impact of Concave Coastline on Rainfall Offshore Distribution over Indonesian Maritime Continent
Authors: Alfahmi Furqon , Boer Rizaldi , Hidayat Rahmat , Perdinan  , Sopaheluwakan Ardhasena
Published: January 2019

Indonesian Maritime Continent has the second longest coastline in the world, but the characteristics of offshore rainfall and its relation to coastline type are not clearly understood. As a region with eighty percent being an ocean, knowledge of offshore rainfall is important to support activity over oceans. This study investigates the climatology of offshore rainfall based on TRMM 3B42 composite during 1998-2015 and its dynamical atmosphere which induces high rainfall intensity using WRF-ARW. The result shows that concave coastline drives the increasing rainfall over ocean with Cenderawasih Bay (widest concave coastline) having the highest rainfall offshore intensity (16.5 mm per day) over Indonesian Maritime Continent. Monthly peak offshore rainfall over concave coastline is related to direction of concave coastline and peak of diurnal cycle influenced by the shifting of low level convergence. Concave coastline facing the north has peak during northwesterly monsoonal flow (March), while concave coastline facing the east has peak during easterly monsoonal flow (July). Low level convergence zone shifts from inland during daytime to ocean during nighttime. Due to shape of concave coastline, land breeze strengthens low level convergence and supports merging rainfall over ocean during nighttime. Rainfall propagating from the area around inland to ocean is approximately 5.4 m/s over Cenderawasih Bay and 4.1 m/s over Tolo Bay. Merger rainfall and low level convergence are playing role in increasing offshore rainfall over concave coastline.
Hall of Heroes: A Digital Game for Social Skills Training with Young Adolescents
Authors: DeRosier Melissa E. , Thomas James M.
Published: January 2019

Traditional social skills training (SST) programs are delivered in person and suffer from significant time, financial, and opportunity barriers that limit their reach and potential benefits for youth. This paper describes the design and preliminary evaluation ofHall of Heroes, a digital game that presents SST through an engaging superhero-themed virtual story world. Participants were randomly assigned to complete the digital game (n = 15) or to a waitlist control condition (n = 14) and were compared on parent-report measures of social emotional functioning. Youth who completedHall of Heroessignificantly improved in their abilities to relate to others (both peers and family members) as well as to accept affection and express emotions with others, compared to youth who did not complete the SST intervention. Further, youth in the treatment condition showed a significantly greater decline in feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness than did youth in the control condition. Both parents and youth reported high levels of engagement in and acceptability of theHall of Heroes. This study adds to the research literature, supporting the potential of a game-based SST platform for effectively helping youth develop prosocial social problem-solving skills.
Current and Emerging Targets in Immunotherapy for Osteosarcoma
Authors: Miwa Shinji , Shirai Toshiharu , Yamamoto Norio , Hayashi Katsuhiro , Takeuchi Akihiko , Igarashi Kentaro , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki
Published: January 2019

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignancy of bone. Although outcomes of patients with osteosarcoma have improved since the introduction of chemotherapy, outcomes of metastatic or unresectable osteosarcomas are still unsatisfactory. To improve osteosarcoma outcomes, the development of novel systemic therapies for osteosarcoma is needed. Since the 1880s, various immunotherapies have been utilized in patients with osteosarcoma and some patients have shown response to the treatment. Based on recent studies about the role of the immune system in malignancies, immunotherapies including immune modulators such as interleukin-2 and muramyl tripeptide, dendritic cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and engineered T cells have been utilized in patients with malignancies. Although there are limited reports of immunotherapies for osteosarcoma, immunotherapy is thought to be a promising treatment option for treating osteosarcomas. In this review, an overview of various immunotherapies for osteosarcoma is provided and their potential as adjuvant therapies is discussed.
Genetic Diversity and Phylogenetic Analysis of Citrus tristeza virus Isolates from Turkey
Authors: Erkiş-Güngör Gözde , Çevik Bayram
Published: January 2019

The presence of Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) in Turkey has been known since the 1960s and the virus was detected in all citrus growing regions of the country. Even though serological and biological characteristics of CTV have been studied since the 1980s, molecular characteristics of CTV isolates have not been studied to date in Turkey. In this study, molecular characteristics of 15 CTV isolates collected from different citrus growing regions of Turkey were determined by amplification, cloning, and sequencing of their major coat protein (CP) genes. The sequence analysis showed that the CP genes were highly conserved among Turkish isolates. However, isolates from different regions showed more genetic variation than isolates from the same region. Turkish isolates were clustered into three phylogenetic groups showing no association with geographical origins, host, or symptoms induced in indicator plants. Phylogenetic analysis of Turkish isolates with isolates from different citrus growing regions of the world including well-characterized type isolates of previously established strain specific groups revealed that some Turkish isolates were closely related to severe quick decline or stem pitting isolates. The results demonstrated that although CTV isolates from Turkey are considered biologically mild, majority of them contain severe components potentially causing quick decline or stem pitting.