bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field Weakening Operation Control Strategies of PMSM Based on Feedback Linearization
Authors: Zhou Kai , Ai Min , Sun Dongyang , Jin Ningzhi , Wu Xiaogang
Published: November 2019

Based on current research into the mathematical model of the permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) and the feedback linearization theory, a control strategy established upon feedback linearization is proposed. The Lie differential operation is performed on the output variable to obtain the state feedback of the nonlinear system, and the dynamic characteristics of the original system are transformed into linear dynamic characteristics. A current controller based on the input–output feedback linearization algorithm is designed to realize the input–output linearization control of the PMSM. The current controller decouples the d–q axis current from the flux linkage information of the motor and outputs a control voltage. When the motor speed reaches above the base speed, the field-forward and straight-axis current components are newly distributed to achieve field weakening control, which can realize the smooth transition between the constant torque region and weak magnetic region. Simulation and experimental results show the feasibility and viability of the strategy.
Nano-Structured Optical Fibers Made of Glass-Ceramics, and Phase Separated and Metallic Particle-Containing Glasses
Authors: Veber Alexander , Lu Zhuorui , Vermillac Manuel , Pigeonneau Franck , Blanc Wilfried , Petit Laeticia
Published: December 2019

For years, scientists have been looking for different techniques to make glasses perfect: fully amorphous and ideally homogeneous. Meanwhile, recent advances in the development of particle-containing glasses (PCG), defined in this paper as glass-ceramics, glasses doped with metallic nanoparticles, and phase-separated glasses show that these “imperfect” glasses can result in better optical materials if particles of desired chemistry, size, and shape are present in the glass. It has been shown that PCGs can be used for the fabrication of nanostructured fibers—a novel class of media for fiber optics. These unique optical fibers are able to outperform their traditional glass counterparts in terms of available emission spectral range, quantum efficiency, non-linear properties, fabricated sensors sensitivity, and other parameters. Being rather special, nanostructured fibers require new, unconventional solutions on the materials used, fabrication, and characterization techniques, limiting the use of these novel materials. This work overviews practical aspects and progress in the fabrication and characterization methods of the particle-containing glasses with particular attention to nanostructured fibers made of these materials. A review of the recent achievements shows that current technologies allow producing high-optical quality PCG-fibers of different types, and the unique optical properties of these nanostructured fibers make them prospective for applications in lasers, optical communications, medicine, lighting, and other areas of science and industry.
Properties of Pectin Extracted from Vietnamese Mango Peels
Authors: Nguyen Hoa D. H. , Nguyen Ha V. H. , Savage Geoffrey P.
Published: December 2019

This study was carried out to investigate the properties of pectin extracted from Vietnamese mango peels that have been discarded as waste. Three different mango cultivars named Hoa Loc, Ghep and Cat Chu at three different maturities were studied. Pectin extracted from immature, ripe and overripe stages ranged from 18.4 to 31.7 g/100 g dry weight (DW); the highest yields were obtained from the ripe fruits. Ghep peels contained the highest pectin amounts which ranged from 24.2 to 31.7 g/100 g DW, followed by Cat Chu (19.2 to 26.5 g/100 g DW) and Hoa Loc peels (18.4 to 24.1 g/100 g DW). Except for degree of esterification and emulsion capacity, other properties of the extracted pectin including water holding capacity, solubility and emulsion stability were significantly affected by the fruit maturation. Varieties, solubility, degree of esterification, emulsion activity and emulsion stability of the pectin isolated from the three cultivars ranged from 77.4% to 86.0%; 50.3% to 55.8%; 11.8% to 34.3% and 28.5% to 94.5%, respectively. Fourier-transform infrared results showed that almost all collected pectin samples could be classified as the high methoxyl pectin. Rheology data indicated viscosity of the isolated pectin was strongly dependent on temperatures.
Predicting Seasonal Influenza Based on SARIMA Model, in Mainland China from 2005 to 2018
Authors: Cong Jing , Ren Mengmeng , Xie Shuyang , Wang Pingyu
Published: November 2019

Seasonal influenza is one of the mandatorily monitored infectious diseases, in China. Making full use of the influenza surveillance data helps to predict seasonal influenza. In this study, a seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) model was used to predict the influenza changes by analyzing monthly data of influenza incidence from January 2005 to December 2018, in China. The inter-annual incidence rate fluctuated from 2.76 to 55.07 per 100,000 individuals. The SARIMA (1, 0, 0) × (0, 1, 1) 12 model predicted that the influenza incidence in 2018 was similar to that of previous years, and it fitted the seasonal fluctuation. The relative errors between actual values and predicted values fluctuated from 0.0010 to 0.0137, which indicated that the predicted values matched the actual values well. This study demonstrated that the SARIMA model could effectively make short-term predictions of seasonal influenza.
Health Status and Health Service Utilization among Vietnamese Farmers in a Mountainous Province
Authors: Nguyen Diep Ngoc , Nguyen Long Hoang , Nguyen Cuong Tat , Pham Hai Quang , Hwang Jongnam , Vu Giang Thu , Tran Bach Xuan , Latkin Carl A. , Ho Cyrus S. H. , Ho Roger C. M.
Published: November 2019

Problems of poor health status and low health service use among farmers in mountainous areas have not been fully investigated. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Son La, a mountainous province in Vietnam, to assess the self-rated health and health care service utilization among farmers. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to measure the self-rated health. Multivariate Tobit, Poisson, and logistic regression were employed to identify related factors. Among 197 farmers, the mean VAS score was 67.8 (SD = 15.5). Approximately 40% of participants reported health problems, and the most popular morbidity was hypertension—56.4%. There were 28.9% and 50.3% of farmers using inpatient and outpatient treatments in the last 12 months, respectively. Age, educational level, family income, marital status, alcohol use, and source of information have been identified as associated factors with self-rated health status and morbidities, while age, gender, education, and morbidities were related to health service utilization. Data indicated a high proportion of health issues and a high rate of health care service use among farmers in a mountainous area of Vietnam. Adaptable health policies and prevention programs or preventive health services should be implemented regularly in mountainous regions to protect farmers from the onset of morbidities and to enhance their health.
Basic Life-Support Learning in Undergraduate Students of Sports Sciences: Efficacy of 150 Minutes of Training and Retention after Eight Months
Authors: Aranda-García Silvia , Herrera-Pedroviejo Ernesto , Abelairas-Gómez Cristian
Published: November 2019

Several professional groups, which are not health professionals, are more likely to witness situations requiring basic life support (BLS) due to the nature of their job. The aim of this study was to assess BLS learning after 150 min of training in undergraduate students of sports science and their retention after eight months. Participants trained on BLS (150-min session: 30 theory, 120 practice). After training (T1) and after 8 months (T2), we evaluated their performance of the BLS sequence and two minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). At T1, the 23 participants presented a mean score of 72.5 ± 21.0% in the quality of the CPRs (compressions: 78.6 ± 25.9%, ventilation: 69.9 ± 30.1%). More than 90% of the participants acted correctly in each step of the BLS sequence. At T2, although the overall quality of the CPR performed did not decrease, significant decreases were observed for: correct hand position (T1: 98.2 ± 8.8, T2: 77.2 ± 39.7%), compression depth (T1: 51.4 ± 7.9, T2: 56.0 ± 5.7 mm), and compression rate. They worsened opening the airway and checking for breathing. In conclusions, participants learned BLS and good-quality CPR after the 150-min training session. At eight months they had good retention of the BLS sequence and CPR skills. Training on airway management and the position of the hands during CPR should be reinforced.
The Association between Health Beliefs and Fall-Related Behaviors and Its Implication for Fall Intervention among Chinese Elderly
Authors: Li Fenfen , Zhou Deding , Chen Yue , Yu Yan , Gao Ning , Peng Juanjuan , Wang Shumei
Published: November 2019

To apply the Health Belief Model (HBM) to fall prevention of the elderly and estimate fall health beliefs and their relationships with fall-related behaviors, a citywide cross-sectional study was conducted among people aged 60 years or over in 13 out of 16 districts in Shanghai, China, in September 2018. A total of 5833 participants were investigated. Of this, 43.4% were male; 48.8% were aged 60–69; 18.1% were uneducated; and 50.3% were living in urban areas. People who were older, less educated, living in rural areas generally had lower scores in the 7 HBM dimensions and also had lower proportions of fall risk-reduction behaviors, except that the less educated elderly were more likely to participate in exercise and training and the rural elderly were more likely to check house environment and participate in exercise and training (p < 0.001). The HBM dimensions were generally positively correlated with the risk-reduction behaviors except that “perceived severity” was negatively correlated with four risk-reduction behaviors and behavior number, “cues to action” was negatively correlated with purchasing shoes, and “perceived benefits” was negatively correlated with participating in exercise activities and fall prevention training (p < 0.05). When HBM is applied in the field of fall prevention, the interpretation of the results of each dimension has its characteristics in the fields of injury research. Fall prevention strategies should focus on improving the health beliefs and behaviors in those who were older, less educated and living in rural areas, implementing different levels of fall prevention activities to meet different needs, improving the accessibility and applicability of related resources, and raising the organizational level of related fall prevention activities.
Mood Disorders in Levothyroxine-Treated Hypothyroid Women
Authors: Romero-Gómez Benjamín , Guerrero-Alonso Paula , Carmona-Torres Juan Manuel , Notario-Pacheco Blanca , Cobo-Cuenca Ana Isabel
Published: November 2019

Background: Hypothyroidism has several symptoms (weight gain, arrhythmias, mood changes, etc.). The aims of this study were (1) to assess the prevalence of anxiety and depression in levothyroxine-treated hypothyroid women and in women without hypothyroidism; (2) to identify variables associated with anxiety and depression. Methods: A case-control study was performed with 393 women. Case-group: 153 levothyroxine-treated hypothyroid women. Control-group: 240 women without hypothyroidism. Convenience sampling. Instrument: The Hamilton Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Results: The prevalence of anxiety in levothyroxine-treated hypothyroid women was higher than in women without hypothyroidism (29.4% vs. 16.7%, χ2 p < 0.001). The prevalence of depression in the case group was higher than in the control group (13.1% vs. 4.6%, χ2 p < 0.001). Levothyroxine-treated hypothyroid women were more likely to have anxiety (OR = 2.08, CI: 1.28–3.38) and depression (OR = 3.13, IC = 1.45–6.45). Conclusion: In spite of receiving treatment with levothyroxine, women with hypothyroidism are more likely to have depression and anxiety. Health professionals need to assess the mood of women with hypothyroidism. Although levothyroxine is a good treatment for the symptoms of hypothyroidism, it may not be enough to prevent development or persistence of depression and anxiety by itself.
Income Trajectories and Subjective Well-Being: Linking Administrative Records and Survey Data
Authors: Schöllgen Ina , Kersten Norbert , Rose Uwe
Published: November 2019

An association between income and life satisfaction has been well documented, however, little is known of how income trajectories affect different facets of subjective well-being (SWB). The aim of this study was to examine how several aspects of income dynamics are related to life satisfaction and affect balance. Longitudinal information on income from administrative records covering 13 years (1999–2011) is linked to cross-sectional data on SWB collected in 2011/12 from the nationally representative Study on Mental Health at Work (S-MGA; n = 3364). Parameters from subject-specific regression analyses of income over time were used as indicators of income development in regressions over all participants, conducted separately for men and women. Associations between income and life satisfaction were stronger and more consistent than associations between income and affect balance. Major findings were that longer-term income change was more strongly related to SWB than current deviation from expected income. Higher stability in income development was associated with higher SWB. A higher share of income from benefits predicted lower life satisfaction and a more negative affect balance. Our results show the importance of examining income trajectories and taking into account source of income to gain a more differentiated view on the income-SWB association.
Link to the Land and Mino-Pimatisiwin (Comprehensive Health) of Indigenous People Living in Urban Areas in Eastern Canada
Authors: Landry Véronique , Asselin Hugo , Lévesque Carole
Published: November 2019

Mino-pimatisiwin is a comprehensive health philosophy shared by several Indigenous peoples in North America. As the link to the land is a key element of mino-pimatisiwin, our aim was to determine if Indigenous people living in urban areas can reach mino-pimatisiwin. We show that Indigenous people living in urban areas develop particular ways to maintain their link to the land, notably by embracing broader views of “land” (including urban areas) and “community” (including members of different Indigenous peoples). Access to the bush and relations with family and friends are necessary to fully experience mino-pimatisiwin. Culturally safe places are needed in urban areas, where knowledge and practices can be shared, contributing to identity safeguarding. There is a three-way equilibrium between bush, community, and city; and mobility between these places is key to maintaining the balance at the heart of mino-pimatisiwin.
Fulminant MS Reactivation Following Combined Fingolimod Cessation and Yellow Fever Vaccination
Authors: Rolfes Leoni , Pawlitzki Marc , Pfeuffer Steffen , Thomas Christian , Schmidt-Chanasit Jonas , Gross Catharina C. , Schulte-Mecklenbeck Andreas , Wiendl Heinz , Meuth Sven G. , M. Grauer Oliver , Ruck Tobias
Published: November 2019

A major concern caused by the discontinuation of disease modifying treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) is a rebound of disease activity. Hypotheses about the underlying mechanism of fingolimod (FTY) induced exaggerated inflammatory responses are diverse. So far, vaccinations as a trigger for rebound activity following FTY suspension have not been described. However, several reports have highlighted the occurrence of neurological and autoimmune side effects after single or combined multi-vaccination procedures. Here, we describe the case of a highly active female MS patient demonstrating recurrent, severe MS relapses accompanied by extensive MRI activity, subsequent to yellow fever vaccination two months following FTY withdrawal. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid immunophenotyping indicated a B cell/plasma cell autoreactivity. Following a therapy with natalizumab the clinical, laboratory, MRI, and disease course improved significantly. This case hints towards a combined immunological mechanism characterized by molecular mimicry, bystander activation, and lymphocyte re-egress, resulting in extensive neurological impairment and shows that natalizumab represents a therapeutic option to counteract B cell mediated autoreactivity. Especially, the diagnostic and therapeutic management of this complex scenario might be instructive for clinical practice.
Parallel Bud Mutation Sequencing Reveals that Fruit Sugar and Acid Metabolism Potentially Influence Stress in Malus
Authors: Zhao Jirong , Shen Fei , Gao Yuan , Wang Dajiang , Wang Kun
Published: November 2019

Apple sugar and acid are the most important traits of apple fruit. Bud sport cultivars can provide abundant research materials for functional gene studies in apple. In this study, using bud sport materials with a rather different sugar and acid flavor, i.e., “Jonathan” and “Sweet Jonathan”, we profiled the whole genome variations and transcriptional regulatory network during fruit developmental stages using whole genome sequencing and RNA-sequencing. Variation analysis identified 4,198,955 SNPs, 319,494 InDels, and 32,434 SVs between the two cultivars. In total, 4313 differentially expressed genes among all of the d 44,399 genes expressed were identified between the two cultivars during fruit development, and functional analysis revealed stress response and signal transduction related genes were enriched. Using 24,047 genes with a more variable expression value, we constructed 28 co-expression modules by weighted correlation network analysis. Deciphering of 14 co-expression modules associated with sugar or acid accumulation during fruit development revealed the hub genes associated with sugar and acid metabolism, e.g., MdDSP4, MdINVE, and MdSTP7. Furthermore, exploration of the intra network of the co-expression module indicated the close relationship between sugar and acid metabolism or sugar and stress. Motif-based sequence analysis of the 17 differentially expressed ATP-binding cassette transporter genes and Yeast one-hybrid assay identified and confirmed a transcription factor, MdBPC6, regulating the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter genes and potentially participating in the apple fruit development or stress response. Collectively, all of the results demonstrated the use of parallel bud mutation sequencing and identified hub genes, and inferred regulatory relationships providing new information about apple fruit sugar and acid accumulation or stress response.
UV Treatment Improves the Biocompatibility and Antibacterial Properties of Crystallized Nanostructured Titanium Surface
Authors: Hatoko Mai , Komasa Satoshi , Zhang Honghao , Sekino Tohru , Okazaki Joji
Published: November 2019

This study describes the production of a new material composed of pure titanium (Ti) metal with a crystallized nanostructure and investigated whether heat treatment and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation improved its biocompatibility and antibacterial properties. We compared the performance of UV-irradiated and non-irradiated Ti nanosheets (TNS) formed by dark alkaline treatment and heating at 600 °C with that of untreated pure Ti nanostructure (positive control). In vitro and in vivo experiments to assess biocompatibility and effects on cell behavior were performed using human umbilical vein endothelial cells and rat bone marrow cells. The material surface was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The antibacterial properties of the irradiated material were evaluated using Staphylococcus aureus, a common pathogenic bacterium. The UV-irradiated TNS exhibited high angiogenic capacity and promoted cell adherence and differentiation relative to the control. Further, surface analysis via XPS revealed a lower C peak for the UV-treated material, indicating a reduced amount of dirt on the material surface. Moreover, UV irradiation decreased the viability of S. aureus on the material surface by stimulating reactive oxygen species production. The biocompatibility and antibacterial properties of the TNS were improved by UV irradiation. Thus, TNS may serve as a useful material for fabrication of dental implants.
The Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia
Authors: Sillar Jonathan R. , Germon Zacary P. , De Iuliis Geoffry N. , Dun Matthew D.
Published: November 2019

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is an aggressive haematological malignancy with a poor overall survival. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been shown to be elevated in a wide range of cancers including AML. Whilst previously thought to be mere by-products of cellular metabolism, it is now clear that ROS modulate the function of signalling proteins through oxidation of critical cysteine residues. In this way, ROS have been shown to regulate normal haematopoiesis as well as promote leukaemogenesis in AML. In addition, ROS promote genomic instability by damaging DNA, which promotes chemotherapy resistance. The source of ROS in AML appears to be derived from members of the “NOX family” of NADPH oxidases. Most studies link NOX-derived ROS to activating mutations in the Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) and Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate (Ras). Targeting ROS through either ROS induction or ROS inhibition provides a novel therapeutic target in AML. In this review, we summarise the role of ROS in normal haematopoiesis and in AML. We also explore the current treatments that modulate ROS levels in AML and discuss emerging drug targets based on pre-clinical work.
Results from the Adverse Event Sedation Reporting Tool: A Global Anthology of 7952 Records Derived from >160,000 Procedural Sedation Encounters
Authors: Mason Keira P. , Roback Mark G. , Chrisp David , Sturzenbaum Nicole , Freeman Lee , Gozal David , Vellani Firoz , Cavanaugh David , Green Steven M.
Published: December 2019

Background: The incidence of sedation-related adverse events, inclusive of both adults and children, administered by multiple specialty providers from different countries and venues, using standardized definitions, has never been reported on an international level. We are reporting the outcome data of the adverse event sedation reporting tool as an important step toward a more complete risk assessment of sedation-related morbidity, mortality, and etiology. The analysis of the AE sedation reporting data include descriptive measures to evaluate the characteristics of the provider, the patient, sedations performed, adverse events, interventions, and outcomes. The primary outcome was the rate and nature of adverse events. Between 12/14/2010 and 12/11/2018 there were 7952 sedations, from an estimated total of 164,114 sedations administered, of which 622 were reported as adverse events. The mean age of the entire patient population is 33.0 years (0.02–98.7). The providers represented 39 countries across six continents. Oxygen desaturation (75%–90%) for <60 s is the most prevalent adverse event with a rate of 7.8 per 10,000, followed by airway obstruction at a rate of 5.42 per 10,000. Apnea occurred at a rate of 4.75 per 10,000. Significant predictors of adverse events are ≥ ASA score III (p = 0.0003), procedure time (6:00 pm–12:00 am: p < 0.0001, 12:00–6:00 am: p = 0.0003), and non-hospital location (p < 0.0001). The AE sedation reporting tool has demonstrated that the majority of adverse events in children and adults who receive procedural sedation from multi-specialists internationally required minor interventions and had outcomes of minor risk.
The Reeler Mouse: A Translational Model of Human Neurological Conditions, or Simply a Good Tool for Better Understanding Neurodevelopment?
Authors: Lossi Laura , Castagna Claudia , Granato Alberto , Merighi Adalberto
Published: December 2019

The first description of the Reeler mutation in mouse dates to more than fifty years ago, and later, its causative gene (reln) was discovered in mouse, and its human orthologue (RELN) was demonstrated to be causative of lissencephaly 2 (LIS2) and about 20% of the cases of autosomal-dominant lateral temporal epilepsy (ADLTE). In both human and mice, the gene encodes for a glycoprotein referred to as reelin (Reln) that plays a primary function in neuronal migration during development and synaptic stabilization in adulthood. Besides LIS2 and ADLTE, RELN and/or other genes coding for the proteins of the Reln intracellular cascade have been associated substantially to other conditions such as spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 and 37, VLDLR-associated cerebellar hypoplasia, PAFAH1B1-associated lissencephaly, autism, and schizophrenia. According to their modalities of inheritances and with significant differences among each other, these neuropsychiatric disorders can be modeled in the homozygous (reln−/−) or heterozygous (reln+/−) Reeler mouse. The worth of these mice as translational models is discussed, with focus on their construct and face validity. Description of face validity, i.e., the resemblance of phenotypes between the two species, centers onto the histological, neurochemical, and functional observations in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum of Reeler mice and their human counterparts.
Encouraging Split Liver Transplantation for Two Adult Recipients to Mitigate the High Incidence of Wait-List Mortality in the Setting of Extreme Shortage of Deceased Donors
Authors: Chan Kun-Ming , Wang Yu-Chao , Wu Tsung-Han , Cheng Chih-Hsien , Lee Chen-Fang , Wu Ting-Jung , Chou Hong-Shiue , Lee Wei-Chen
Published: December 2019

Background: Organ demand for liver transplantation (LT) is constantly increasing. Split liver transplantation (SPLT) is an ideal option for increasing the number of available liver grafts for transplantation and ameliorating organ shortage to a certain degree. However, SPLT for two adult recipients is still not broadly applied. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of SPLT for adult recipients at a single center. All donor, recipient, and transplantation factors were thoroughly investigated to clarify factors affecting patient outcomes after LT. Results: One hundred consecutive adult SPLTs were performed during the study period. Early mortality and 1-year mortality occurred in 21 and 31 recipients, respectively. On multivariate analysis, graft weight (p = 0.036, odds ratio = 0.99, 95% confidence interval = 0.98–0.99) was the independent risk factor associated with early mortality; however, no factor was significantly related to 1-year mortality. On receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, a graft weight of 580 g was identified the cutoff for stratifying outcomes. Recipients transplanted with a graft weighing ≥580 g had significantly better outcome as compared with other recipients (p = 0.001). Moreover, SPLT remarkably provided a better survival benefit for recipients than those on the LT wait-list (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Given the considerable incidence of wait-list mortality, SPLT for two adult recipients should be encouraged whenever possible to increase the donor pool and benefit patients awaiting LT. Nonetheless, caution should be taken with a smaller graft weight owing to the risk of early graft loss.
Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea before and after Continuous Positive Airway Pressure: The ADIPOSA Study
Authors: Carneiro-Barrera Almudena , Amaro-Gahete Francisco J. , Sáez-Roca Germán , Martín-Carrasco Carlos , R. Ruiz Jonatan , Buela-Casal Gualberto
Published: December 2019

The prevalence and treatment response of depression and anxiety symptoms in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), although widely addressed in research and clinical settings, still remain unclear due to overlapping symptoms. The ADIPOSA study sought to elucidate the presence of non-overlapping symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients with moderate to severe OSA before and after continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment. Forty-eight adults aged 18–80 (68.75% men) with moderate to severe OSA were enrolled in this twelve-week longitudinal single-arm trial and completed a full-night ambulatory sleep diagnostic test and an assessment of cognitive-affective depression and anxiety symptoms using the Beck-Depression Inventory-Fast Screen (BDI-FS), the State-Trait Depression Inventory (IDER) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). We found no cognitive-affective depression or anxiety symptoms of clinical relevance at baseline. The amelioration of depression and anxiety symptoms after CPAP use was only statistically significant when considering anxiety-trait (p < 0.01; d = 0.296) and euthymia (p < 0.05; d = 0.402), the distinctive component of depression. Although dysthymia or high negative affect remained unchanged, CPAP may be effective at reducing the lack of positive affect, a well-established health-protective factor. However, not until depression and anxiety disorders related to OSA are accurately measured in clinical and research settings will it be possible to obtain robust conclusions on the occurrence and amelioration of these symptoms after treatment.
Numerical Study of the Interaction between Level Ice and Wind Turbine Tower for Estimation of Ice Crushing Loads on Structure
Authors: Song Ming , Shi Wei , Ren Zhengru , Zhou Li
Published: December 2019

In this paper, the interaction between level ice and wind turbine tower is simulated by the explicit nonlinear code LS-DYNA. The isotropic elasto-plastic material model is used for the level ice, in which ice crushing failure is considered. The effects of ice mesh size and ice failure strain on ice forces are investigated. The results indicate that these parameters have a significant effect on the ice crushing loads. To validate and benchmark the numerical simulations, experimental data on level ice-wind turbine tower interactions are used. First, the failure strains of the ice models with different mesh sizes are calibrated using the measured maximum ice force from one test. Next, the calibrated ice models with different mesh sizes are applied for other tests, and the simulated results are compared to corresponding model test data. The effects of the impact speed and the size of wind turbine tower on the comparison between the simulated and measured results are studied. The comparison results show that the numerical simulations can capture the trend of the ice loads with the impact speed and the size of wind turbine tower. When a mesh size of ice model is 1.5 times the ice thickness, the simulations can give more accurate estimations in terms of maximum ice loads for all tests, i.e., good agreement between the simulated and measured results is achieved.
Encouraging Entrepreneurship and Economic Growth
Authors: Ahlstrom David , Chang Amber Y. , Cheung Jessie S. T.
Published: November 2019

The economy has seen unprecedented growth in the past two centuries, raising average incomes by 30-fold. With this added wealth, living standards also improved greatly. Although many factors impact economic growth, it is accepted that entrepreneurship plays a key role. Therefore, understanding the antecedents of entrepreneurship and the link to economic development, often through institutions, should be of higher importance to researchers and policymakers. This Special Issue of the Journal of Risk and Financial Management sought to provide a brief overview of the economic growth literature and its link with entrepreneurship while adding insight through the Special Issue papers regarding the drivers of entrepreneurship in different contexts. Thus, the papers gathered here addressed several aspects of entrepreneurship and how it may be encouraged through networking, cornerstone investors in initial public offerings, new financing methods such as with cryptocurrencies, and through entrepreneur health. The research sites were primarily in Asia. This lead paper summarizes the issue’s papers while also providing a short overview of the economic growth literature and its link to entrepreneurship and institutions. This Special Issue, thus contributes to the empirical and theoretic research on the drivers of entrepreneurship and the association with economic growth.
Data Gathering from a Multimodal Dense Underwater Acoustic Sensor Network Deployed in Shallow Fresh Water Scenarios
Authors: Signori Alberto , Campagnaro Filippo , Steinmetz Fabian , Renner Bernd-Christian , Zorzi Michele
Published: December 2019

The Robotic Vessels as-a-Service (RoboVaaS) project intends to exploit the most advanced communication and marine vehicle technologies to revolutionize shipping and near-shore operations, offering on-demand and cost-effective robotic-aided services. In particular, the RoboVaaS vision includes a ship hull inspection service, a quay walls inspection service, an antigrounding service, and an environmental and bathymetry data collection service. In this paper, we present a study of the underwater environmental data collection service, performed by a low-cost autonomous vehicle equipped with both a commercial modem and a very low-cost acoustic modem prototype, the smartPORT Acoustic Underwater Modem (AHOI). The vehicle mules the data from a network of low cost submerged acoustic sensor nodes to a surface sink. To this end, an underwater acoustic network composed by both static and moving nodes has been implemented and simulated with the DESERT Underwater Framework, where the performance of the AHOI modem has been mapped in the form of lookup tables. The performance of the AHOI modem has been measured near the Port of Hamburg, where the RoboVaaS concept will be demonstrated with a real field evaluation. The transmission with the commercial modem, instead, has been simulated with the Bellhop ray tracer thanks to the World Ocean Simulation System (WOSS), by considering both the bathymetry and the sound speed profile of the Port of Hamburg. The set up of the polling-based MAC protocol parameters, such as the maximum backoff time of the sensor nodes, appears to be crucial for the network performance, in particular for the low-cost low-rate modems. In this work, to tune the maximum backoff time during the data collection mission, an adaptive mechanism has been implemented. Specifically, the maximum backoff time is updated based on the network density. This adaptive mechanism results in an 8% improvement of the network throughput.
Dimensional and Geometrical Quality Enhancement in Additively Manufactured Parts: Systematic Framework and A Case Study
Authors: Beltrán Natalia , Blanco David , Álvarez Braulio José , Noriega Álvaro , Fernández Pedro
Published: November 2019

In order to compete with traditional manufacturing processes, Additive Manufacturing (AM) should be capable of producing medium to large batches at industrial-degree quality and competitive cost-per-unit. This paper proposes a systematic framework approach to the problem of fulfilling dimensional and geometric requirements for medium batch sizes of AM parts, which has been structured as a three-step optimization methodology. Firstly, specific work characteristics are analyzed so that information is arranged according to an Operation Space (factors that could have an influence upon quality) and a Verification Space (formed by quality indicators and requirements). Standard process configuration leads to characterization of the standard achievable quality. Secondly, controllable factors are analyzed to determine their relative influence upon quality indicators and the optimal process configuration. Thirdly, optimization of part dimensional and/or geometric definition at the design level is performed in order to improve part quality and meet quality requirements. To evaluate the usefulness of the proposed framework under quasi-industrial condition, a case study is presented here which is focused on the dimensional and geometric optimization of surgical-steel tibia resection guides manufactured by Laser-Power Bed Fusion (L-PBF). The results show that the proposed approach allows for part quality improvement to a degree that matches the initial requirements.
Research on the Energy Release Characteristics of Six Kinds of Reactive Materials
Authors: Ran Xianwen , Ding Liangliang , Zhou Jingyuan , Tang Wenhui
Published: November 2019

Currently, PTFE/Al is widely used in the reactive fragmentation warhead. However, for the same explosive yield, the reactive fragments usually have a smaller damage-radius than the inert fragments because PTFE/Al has a poor penetration ability and needs an impact-speed up to 1000 m/s to stimulate its chemical reaction. To enhance the damage power of reactive fragments, six kinds of reactive materials (PTFE/Al, PTFE/B, PTFE/Si, PTFE/Al/B, PTFE/Al/Si, and PTFE/Al/CuO) based on PTFE were designed and studied. Through the drop weight system and the self-designed energy release test device, qualitative and quantitative analysis of the energy release ability of six kinds of reactive materials were carried out. The qualitative analysis results indicate that the reactions of PTFE/B and PTFE/Si are weak under the impact of drop hammer with only a very weak fire light produced, while the reactions of PTFE/Al, PTFE/Al/B, PTFE/Al/Si, and PTFE/Al/CuO are relatively intense, and the reaction of PTFE/Al/Si is the most intense. Through the self-designed energy release test device, the energy release ability of the reactive material was quantitatively compared and analyzed. The results show that the energy release ability of the four formulations were as follows: PTFE/Al/Si > PTFE/Al/CuO > PTFE/Al/B > PTFE/Al. Therefore, it can be concluded that the PTFE/Al/Si formulation is a new reactive material with strong energy release ability, which can be a new choice for reactive fragment.
Fractal Dimension Characterization of Joint Surface Morphology on Dissimilar Friction Stir Lap Welding of Al/Mg
Authors: Zhao Yadong , Luo Yalong , Zhang Zhipeng , Zhang Haixiao , Guo Xuefeng , Wang Shuguang , Cui Hongbao , Zhang Yangming
Published: November 2019

The joint surface of the 1060 aluminum and AZ31 magnesium alloy was prepared through friction stir lap welding (FSLW) under different welding process parameters. The joint surface was characterized three-dimensionally using a three-dimensional (3D) optical profiler, and the coordinate data were obtained. The fractal dimension of the joint surface was calculated by the box-width transformation method using a MATLAB program. Furthermore, the influence of the welding process parameters on the fractal dimension of the joint surface was studied. The response surface model was established based on the principle of central composite design (CCD), and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was carried out to test the accuracy of the response surface. The results showed that the joint surface morphology had fractal characteristics, and the fractal dimension could be used as an index to characterize the quality of the joint surface. The change of the welding process parameters had a great impact on the fractal dimension of the joint surface, the interaction between the parameters was small, and the fitting accuracy of the response surface model was high. The fractal dimension of the joint surface decreased with the increase in the welding and rotational speeds and the effect of the rotational speed was more significant.
Substitutions of Zr4+/V5+ for Y3+/Mo6+ in Y2Mo3O12 for Less Hygroscopicity and Low Thermal Expansion Properties
Authors: Ma Qiang , Chen Lulu , Qi Heng , Xu Qi , Yuan Baohe , Liu Xiansheng , Xu Lei
Published: November 2019

In this investigation, ZrxY2−xVxMo3−xO12 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1.4) is developed and the effects of the substitutions of Zr4+/V5+ for Y3+/Mo6+ in Y2Mo3O12 on the hygroscopicity and thermal expansion property are investigated. For the smaller substitution content (x ≤ 0.5), their crystal structures remain orthorhombic, while there is crystal water still in the lattice. The linear coefficients of thermal expansions (CTEs), for x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7, are about −4.30 × 10−6, −0.97 × 10−6, 0.85 × 10−6, and 0.77 × 10−6 K−1, respectively, from 476 to 773 K, which means that the linear CTE could be changed linearly with the substitution content of Zr4+/V5+ for Y3+/Mo6+ in Y2Mo3O12. As long as the substitution content reaches x = 1.3/1.4, almost no hygroscopicity and low thermal expansion from room temperature are obtained and are discussed in relation to the crystal structure and microstructure.
Enhanced Activation of Persulfate by Co-Doped Bismuth Ferrite Nanocomposites for Degradation of Levofloxacin Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Zhong Xin , Zou Zheng-Shuo , Wang Hu-Lin , Huang Wei , Zhou Bin-Xue
Published: November 2019

In this study, magnetic visible light driven photocatalysts (bismuth ferrite, Bi2Fe4O9, BFO and Co-doped bismuth ferrite, Co-BFO) were successfully prepared by the facile hydrothermal method. The catalyst was used in the application of heterogeneous persulfate (PS) system under visible LED light irradiation for the degradation of levofloxacin (LFX), proving to be an excellent photocatalyst when evaluated by various characterization methods. The effect of Co-doping in the BFO structure was investigated that the decrease of band gap width and the generated photoelectrons and holes would effectively reduce the recombination of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, leading to the enhancement photocatalytic activity. The results demonstrated that Co-BFO catalyst had a high photodegradation efficiency over a wide pH range of 3.0–9.0 and the Co-BFO-2 composite displayed the optimal catalytic performance. It was found that the degradation rate of LFX by Co-BFO-2 catalyst was 3.52 times higher than that of pure BFO catalyst under visible light condition. The free radical trapping experiments and EPR tests demonstrated that superoxide, photogenerated holes and sulfate radicals were the main active species in the photocatalytic degradation of LFX. And a possible photocatalytic degradation mechanism of LFX was proposed in the Vis/Co-BFO/PS process. These findings provided new insight of the mechanism of heterogeneous activation of persulfate by Co-BFO under visible light irradiation.
High-Performance Nylon-6 Sustainable Filaments for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Farina Ilenia , Singh Narinder , Colangelo Francesco , Luciano Raimondo , Bonazzi Giulio , Fraternali Fernando
Published: November 2019

This study deals with the development of Nylon-6 fused deposition modeling (FDM) filaments for additive manufacturing, which couples high mechanical performances with eco-sustainability. These filaments were extruded from recycled Nylon-6 granulates through a dedicated twin-screw extrusion line, which processes either pure Nylon-6 grains, or mixtures of such a material with minor fractions of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and titanium dioxide (TiO2). The rheological and thermal properties of the investigated filaments are analyzed, including melt flow index, melting temperature, and decomposition temperature, which are of the utmost importance when avoiding the overheating and decomposition of the material. Such a study is conducted in both pre-extrusion and post-extrusion conditions. The tensile strength, the wear resistance, and the printability of the examined recycled Nylon-6 filaments are also studied by comparing the properties of such filaments with those exhibited by different nylon-based filaments for FDM that are available in the market. The given results show that the recycling of Nylon-6 through the “caprolactam” regeneration route enables the newly formed material to retain high physical and mechanical properties, such as tensile strength at yield in the interval 55.79–86.91 MPa. Referring to the basic composition of the filaments examined in the present study, this remarkably high-yield strength is accompanied by a Young modulus of 1.64 GPa, and wear resistance of 92 µm, under a 15 min/1 kg load pin-on-disk test carried at the sliding speed of 250 rpm.
Enumeration of Pentahexagonal Annuli in the Plane
Authors: Dobrynin Andrey A. , Rosenfeld Vladimir R.
Published: December 2019

Pentahexagonal annuli are closed chains consisting of regular pentagons and hexagons. Such configurations can be easily recognized in various complex designs, in particular, in molecular carbon constructions. Results of computer enumeration of annuli without overlapping on the plane are presented for up to 18 pentagons and hexagons. We determine how many annuli have certain properties for a fixed number of pentagons. In particular, we consider symmetry, pentagon separation (the least ring-distance between pentagons), uniformity of pentagon distribution, and pentagonal thickness (the size of maximal connected part of pentagons) of annuli. Pictures of all annuli with the number of pentagons and hexagons up to 17 are presented (more than 1300 diagrams).
Astaxanthin Suppresses Cigarette Smoke-Induced Emphysema through Nrf2 Activation in Mice
Authors: Kubo Hiroaki , Asai Kazuhisa , Kojima Kazuya , Sugitani Arata , Kyomoto Yohkoh , Okamoto Atsuko , Yamada Kazuhiro , Ijiri Naoki , Watanabe Tetsuya , Hirata Kazuto , Kawaguchi Tomoya
Published: November 2019

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a key cellular defense mechanism against oxidative stress. Recent studies have shown that astaxanthin protects against oxidative stress via Nrf2. In this study, we investigated the emphysema suppression effect of astaxanthin via Nrf2 in mice. Mice were divided into four groups: control, smoking, astaxanthin, and astaxanthin + smoking. The mice in the smoking and astaxanthin + smoking groups were exposed to cigarette smoke for 12 weeks, and the mice in the astaxanthin and astaxanthin + smoking groups were fed a diet containing astaxanthin. Significantly increased expression levels of Nrf2 and its target gene, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), were found in the lung homogenates of astaxanthin-fed mice. The number of inflammatory cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was significantly decreased, and emphysema was significantly suppressed. In conclusion, astaxanthin protects against oxidative stress via Nrf2 and ameliorates cigarette smoke-induced emphysema. Therapy with astaxanthin directed toward activating the Nrf2 pathway has the potential to be a novel preventive and therapeutic strategy for COPD.
Synthesis of Spherical V-Nb-Mo-Ta-W High-Entropy Alloy Powder Using Hydrogen Embrittlement and Spheroidization by Thermal Plasma
Authors: Lee Won-Hyuk , Park Ki Beom , Yi Kyung-Woo , Lee Sung Yong , Park Kwangsuk , Lee Taeg Woo , Na Tae-Wook , Park Hyung-Ki
Published: December 2019

V-Nb-Mo-Ta-W high-entropy alloy (HEA), one of the refractory HEAs, is considered as a next-generation structural material for ultra-high temperature uses. Refractory HEAs have low castability and machinability due to their high melting temperature and low thermal conductivity. Thus, powder metallurgy becomes a promising method for fabricating components with refractory HEAs. Therefore, in this study, we fabricated spherical V-Nb-Mo-Ta-W HEA powder using hydrogen embrittlement and spheroidization by thermal plasma. The HEA ingot was prepared by vacuum arc melting and revealed to have a single body-centered cubic phase. Hydrogen embrittlement which could be achieved by annealing in a hydrogen atmosphere was introduced to get the ingot pulverized easily to a fine powder having an angular shape. Then, the powder was annealed in a vacuum atmosphere to eliminate the hydrogen from the hydrogenated HEA, resulting in a decrease in the hydrogen concentration from 0.1033 wt% to 0.0003 wt%. The angular shape of the HEA powder was turned into a spherical one by inductively-coupled thermal plasma, allowing to fabricate spherical V-Nb-Mo-Ta-W HEA powder with a d50 value of 28.0 μm.