bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hyers-Ulam stability of first-order homogeneous linear dynamic equations on time scales
Authors: Anderson Douglas R. , Onitsuka Masakazu 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
We establish theHyers-Ulam stability (HUS) of certain first-order linear constant coefficient dynamic equations on time scales, which include the continuous (step size zero) and the discrete (step size constant and nonzero) dynamic equations as important special cases. In particular, for certain parameter values in relation to the graininess of the time scale, we find the minimum HUS constants. A few nontrivial examples are provided. Moreover, an application to a perturbed linear dynamic equation is also included.
Synthesis of miktoarm star-shaped and inverse star-block copolymers by a combination of ring-opening polymerization and click chemistry
Authors: Yan Xiaoqi , Li Jianbo , Ren Tianbin 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
Based on the combination of the “arm-first” and “core-first” strategies, the miktoarm star-shaped copolymer PLLA2PCL2 and the inverse star-block copolymer (PCL-b-PLLA)2-core-(PCL-b-PLLA)2 were designed and synthesized by the combination of ring-opening polymerization (ROP) and a click reaction. The miktoarm star-shaped copolymer PLLA2PCL2 was synthesized by a click reaction of an azido macroinitiator PLLA2(N3)2 and HC≡C-PCL. The inverse star-block copolymer (PCL-b-PLLA)2-core-(PCL-b-PLLA)2 was synthesized by a click reaction of an azido macroinitiator (PCL-b-PLLA)2(N3)2 and HC≡C-PCL-b-PLLA. The structures of these star polymers were confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatograph (GPC). The inverse star-block copolymer could be used to study the potential relationship between polymer structure and properties, which has a unique structure and good crystallization properties.
Analysis of Optical Wireless Communication Systems
Authors: Parmar Akshita , Sharma Abhishek , Guleria Chandni 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
Optical wireless communication is one of the emerging technologies. Over the last few years it has been the growing interests which have some indoor and outdoor applications. The demand for wireless communication has been growing day-by-day. With radio spectrum, there are some problems related to congestion, limitations on bandwidth as the number of users are increasing day-by-day. As a result, optical wireless communication systems are been used which provides high data rates, much higher bandwidth, unregulated spectrum and highly secured networks. In this paper a review is done on optical wireless communication. Various fields and applications are discussed like under water, space, aircrafts, light fidelity (Li-Fi), etc. Different light sources, coding schemes, modulation techniques are discussed. Also some of the challenges are discussed here.
Prognostic value of the aortic isthmus Doppler assessment on late onset fetal growth restriction
Authors: Villalaín Cecilia , Herraiz Ignacio , Quezada Maria S. , Gómez-Arriaga Paula I. , Simón Elisa , Gómez-Montes Enery , Galindo Alberto 
Published: September 2018

Abstract

Background
As conflicting results have been reported about the association of reversed flow on the aortic isthmus (AoI) and adverse perinatal results in fetal growth restriction (FGR), we aim to compare perinatal outcomes (including tolerance to labor induction) of late-onset FGR between those with anterograde and reversed AoI flow.

Methods
This was an observational retrospective cohort study on 148 singleton gestations diagnosed with late-onset FGR (diagnosis ≥32+0 weeks), with an estimated fetal weight (EFW) <10th centile and mild fetal Doppler alteration: umbilical artery (UA) pulsatility index (PI) >95th centile, middle cerebral artery (MCA)-PI <5th centile or cerebral-placental ratio <5th centile. Anterograde AoI flow was present in n=79 and reversed AoI flow in n=69. Delivery was recommended from 37 weeks in both groups. Perinatal results were compared between the groups.

Results
The global percentage of vaginal delivery of fetuses with anterograde and reversed blood flow was 55.7% vs. 66.7% (P=0.18) and the percentage of cesarean section (C-section) for non-reassuring fetal status was 12.7% vs. 15.9% (P=0.29), respectively. When evaluating those that underwent labor induction, the vaginal delivery rate was 67.9% vs. 77.2% (P=0.17), respectively. There were no significant differences regarding any other perinatal variables and there were no cases of severe morbidity or mortality.

Conclusion
We observed that the presence of reversed AoI flow does not worsen perinatal outcomes on fetuses with late-onset growth restriction with mild Doppler alterations. Attempt of labor induction is feasible in these fetuses regardless of the direction of AoI flow.
The Macedonian Expeditionary Corps in Asia Minor (336–335 BC)
Authors: Kholod Maxim M. 
Published: September 2018

SummaryThe article deals with a complex of issues connected with the campaign waged by the Macedonian expeditionary corps in Asia Minor in 336–335 BC. The author clears up the aims set for the advance-guard, its command structure, strength and composition. He also describes the relevant military operations and reveals the reasons both for the Macedonians’ successes in 336 and their failures in 335. The idea is argued that despite the final failures, it is hardly possible to say that the campaign the expeditionary corps conducted ended in its total defeat. Besides, it is noted that those military operations had major significance for Alexander’s campaign in Asia Minor in 334, because a number of preconditions for its full success had been created right in their course.
Könige, Poleis und Athleten in hellenistischer Zeit
Authors: Mann Christian 
Published: September 2018

ZusammenfassungBei der Erforschung der politischen Kommunikation in der hellenistischen Welt haben die sportlichen Wettkämpfe bislang nicht die gebührende Aufmerksamkeit erfahren. Hier setzt der Aufsatz an, der aufzuzeigen versucht, wie Könige und Poleis die Agonistik als Kommunikationsraum nutzten, um Sieghaftigkeit zu demonstrieren, Loyalität zu bekunden und Status zu verhandeln. Konkret werden drei Phänomene in den Blick genommen: die Teilnahme der Könige an den Pferde- und Wagenrennen, die Partizipation der Könige am agonistischen Ruhm anderer und die Konstituierung und Ausrichtung von Agonen durch oder mit Bezug auf Könige. Dabei werden sowohl allgemeine Muster als auch spezifische Strategien einzelner Könige und Dynastien sichtbar.
The role of predictability in shaping phonological patterns
Authors: Hall Kathleen Currie , Hume Elizabeth , Jaeger T. Florian , Wedel Andrew 
Published: September 2018

AbstractA diverse set of empirical findings indicate that word predictability in context influences the fine-grained details of both speech production and comprehension. In particular, lower predictability relative to similar competitors tends to be associated with phonetic enhancement, while higher predictability is associated with phonetic reduction. We review evidence that these in-the-moment biases can shift the prototypical pronunciations of individual lexical items, and that over time, these shifts can promote larger-scale phonological changes such as phoneme mergers. We argue that predictability-associated enhancement and reduction effects are based on predictability at the level of meaning-bearing units (such as words) rather than at sublexical levels (such as segments) and present preliminary typological evidence in support of this view. Based on these arguments, we introduce a Bayesian framework that helps generate testable predictions about the type of enhancement and reduction patterns that are more probable in a given language.
Study of Pb ion adsorption on (n, 0) CNTs (n=4, 5, 6)
Authors: Li Wei , Zhao Yun , Wang Teng 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
Absorption of Pb ion on the (n, 0) carbon nanotube (CNT) (n=4, 5, 6) surface, pure and defected with single vacancy, is investigated based on density functional theory. Pristine (n, 0) CNTs can produce a certain degree of chemical adsorption of Pb ion. While a single vacancy is introduced, the adsorption ability of CNTs for Pb ion increases greatly, and the band gap changes significantly before and after adsorption. SV-(6, 0) CNTs have the strongest adsorption ability, and SV-(5, 0) CNTs are the potential material for the Pb ion detection sensor. It is expected that these could be helpful to the design of Pb filters and sensors.
Towards an Indexical Paradoxico-Metaphysics
Authors: Bensusan Hilan Nissior 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
This paper sketches a metaphysical view according to which the furniture of the universe is made of indexicals. The view draws from work in the philosophy of language and thought concerning demonstratives, proper names and other deictic operations (by Perry, Kaplan, Kripke among others). It also draws on Levinas‘ conception of the Other as beyond any substantive description. Indexicalism, as I call it, is compared with object-oriented views such as Harman‘s and Garcia‘s. Indexicalism lapses into paradox concerning totality and proves to be self-destructive. It is defended, however, as a paradoxico-metaphysics.
Encounters with Ultimacy?: Autobiographical and Critical Perspectives in the Academic Study of Religion
Authors: Hedges Paul 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
“Ultimacy,” it is argued, is not an area that academic studies in theology nor the study of religion can properly investigate; nevertheless, it is also illegitimate to argue therefore that claims to it are simply linguistic power plays. Using an autobiographical methodology, the author explores how their own “imagined” “mystical” experience and scholarly studies may shed light on approaching the study of religious experience, noting particularly work by Rudolf Otto, Robert Sharf, Gregory Shushan, and Ann Taves. Reflections are offered on studying religious experience, approaching ultimacy, and the relationship of theological and religious studies. Moreover, some critical and decolonial perspectives are brought to bear both on the author’s own work, academic studies, and contemporary debates around studying what may be termed “mysticism” or religious experience. The author also argues that the autobiographical and reflexive model offered herein may be a useful perspective for scholarship in the study of religion.
Encountering the Ultimate in the Bhagavad Gītā: An Experience of Pratyabhijñā (Recognition)
Authors: Long Jeffery D. 
Published: September 2018

Abstract
Is religious experience necessarily the product of one specific tradition? The constructivist approach to religious experience which prevails in the contemporary academy certainly suggests that this is the case. But is this not at odds with the idea of an ultimate reality that exists objectively and independently of what any given group of human beings may think about it? This paper argues that the phenomenon of religious conversion militates against the constructivist account.
Context-aware robot navigation using interactively built semantic maps
Authors: Cosgun Akansel , Christensen Henrik I. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractWe discuss the process of building semantic maps, how to interactively label entities in them, and how to use them to enable context-aware navigation behaviors in human environments. We utilize planar surfaces, such as walls and tables, and static objects, such as door signs, as features for our semantic mapping approach. Users can interactively annotate these features by having the robot follow him/her, entering the label through a mobile app, and performing a pointing gesture toward the landmark of interest. Our gesture-based approach can reliably estimate which object is being pointed at, and detect ambiguous gestures with probabilistic modeling. Our person following method attempts to maximize future utility by search for future actions assuming constant velocity model for the human. We describe a method to extract metric goals from a semantic map landmark and to plan a human aware path that takes into account the personal spaces of people. Finally, we demonstrate context awareness for person following in two scenarios: interactive labeling and door passing.We believe that future navigation approaches and service robotics applications can be made more effective by further exploiting the structure of human environments.
Clinical Application of Dietary Therapies in Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Rej Anupam , Avery Amanda , Ford Alexander Charles , Holdoway Anne , Kurien Matthew , McKenzie Yvonne , Thompson Julie , Trott Nick , Whelan Kevin , Williams Marianne , Sanders David Surendran 
Published: September 2018

Background & Aims: Diet appears to play a pivotal role in symptom generation in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). First line dietary therapy for IBS has focused on advice concerning healthy eating and lifestyle management. Research recently has focused on the role of a diet low in fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAPs), gluten free (GFD) and wheat free (WFD) diets for the relief of symptoms in IBS.Methods: A round table discussion with gastroenterologists and dietitians with a specialist interest in dietary therapies in IBS was held in Sheffield, United Kingdom in May 2017. Existing literature was reviewed. PubMed and EMBASE were searched with the MeSH terms irritable bowel syndrome/diet/diet therapy/gluten/low FODMAP in different combinations to identify relevant articles. A consensus on the application of these dietary therapies into day-to-day practice was developed.
Results: Fourteen randomized trials in IBS evaluating the low FODMAP diet (n studies = 9), GFD (n = 4) and WFD (n = 1) were included in this review. The total number of patients recruited from randomized trials reviewed was: n=580 low FODMAP diet (female, n=430), n=203 GFD (female, n=139), n=276 WFD (female, n=215). There was no significant difference in the gender of patients recruited for both the low FODMAP and GFD randomized studies (p=0.12). The response rate in the literature to a low FODMAP diet ranged between 50-76%, and to GFD ranged between 34-71%. Percentage of IBS patients identified as wheat sensitive was reported as 30% in the literature.
Conclusion: There are no head-to-head trials to date utilizing the low FODMAP diet, GFD and WFD for dietary treatment of IBS and still a number of concerns for diets, including nutritional inadequacy and alteration of the gut microbiota. The consensus suggests that there is evidence for the use of the low FODMAP diet, GFD and WFD as dietary therapies for IBS; the decision-making process for using each individual therapy should be directed by a detailed history by the dietitian, involving the patient in the process.
Clinical Predictors of Arterial Extravasation, Rebleedingand Mortality Following Angiographic Interventions in Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Mohan Prasoon , Manov John , Diaz-Bode Alexander , Venkat Sree , Langston Michael , Naidu Akash , Howse Rayna , Narayanan Govindarajan 
Published: September 2018

Background & Aims: The aim of this study was to identify clinical and imaging predictors of arterial extravasation, post embolization rebleeding and 30-day mortality in gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.
Method: This retrospective study included 114 patients who underwent angiography for upper or lower GI bleeding. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify clinical and imaging predictors.
Results: Angiography demonstrated arterial extravasation in 22 patients (19%) and embolization was performed in 48 (42%) patients including prophylactic embolization in 26 (56%). Fall in hemoglobin level from baseline was an independent predictor of arterial extravasation with 65% increased odds for every unit drop (OR 1.65, 95%CI 1.13-2.40, p=0.01). Age <60 years was a negative predictor of rebleed within 30-days (OR 0.94, 95%CI 0.89-1.00, p=0.04). Patients with a history of malignancy were more likely to rebleed (OR 4.4, 95%CI 1.06-18.36, p=0.04). Hemodynamic instability prior to angiography (OR 13.22, 95%CI 1.65-106.07, p=0.02), history of malignancy (OR 1.36, 95%CI 1.49-10.49, p=0.01), number of units of platelets transfused (OR 1.42, 95%CI 1.02-1.97, p=0.04) and rebleed after angiography (OR 46.8, 95%CI 4.80-456.14, p<0.01) were predictors of 30-day mortality. Prophylactic embolization was not a predictor of rebleed or 30-day mortality.
Conclusions: This paper identified important clinical predictors of arterial extravasation, rebleed and 30-day mortality in GI bleedings, which will assist in patient selection and help to improve the overall angiographic management of GI bleeding.
Genetic Variants in Nicotinamide-N-Methyltransferase (NNMT) Gene are Related to the Stage of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Diagnosed by Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP)-FibroScan
Authors: Hasan Eman M , Abd Al Aziz Rasha A , Sabry Dina , Darweesh Samar K , Badary Hedy A , Elsharkawy Aisha , Abouelkhair Mahmood M , Yosry Ayman 
Published: September 2018

Background & Aims: Various genetic polymorphisms play a key-role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and progression to NASH with fibrosis to cirrhosis. We aimed to study the association between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in NNMT gene, namely rs694539 and the development of different stages of NAFLD diagnosed by controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) of FibroScan Echosens®.
Methods: Transient elastography (FibroScan®) with controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) measurement was performed in 81 NAFLD patients (35 of them with liver biopsy) and 80 non-NAFLD controls. The accuracy of CAP and FibroScan for the detection and quantification of hepatic steatosis/fibrosis, respectively, was assessed based on liver biopsy aspect. Genetic variants of NNMT gene rs694539 were analyzed using a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).
Results: According to BMI (kg/m2), among the patients, 17 (21%) were overweight, 56 (69.1%) obese, and 8 (9.9%) morbidly obese. CAP and FibroScan diagnosed steatosis/fibrosis correlated significantly with liver biopsy. There was a significant association between polymorphisms of rs694539-NNMT gene and NAFLD presence and stages. The mutant type (AA-genotype) was found in 33% NAFLD patients versus 1.2% controls (P<0.001), whereas the wild type (GG-genotype) was present in 21% versus 63.8% controls (P<0.001). Moreover, the AA-genotype significantly correlated with the steatosis degree by CAP but not the fibrosis degree by FibroScan. Multivariate regression analysis of all the independent risk factors showed non-significant correlations with the degree of steatosis on CAP. However, by using a stepwise approach, waist circumference showed significance as an independent predictor of NAFLD.
Conclusions: Polymorphisms in rs694539-NNMT gene (mutant AA-genotype) could be a genetic risk factor for developing NAFLD and NASH (indicating susceptibility for progression and complications). Individuals with wild type (GG-genotype) are at less risk of NAFLD development. CAP and FibroScan efficiently diagnosed steatosis and fibrosis.
Flexible Endoscopic Treatment for Zenker’s Diverticulum – Experience on 31 Patients
Authors: Pop Anamaria , Tantau Alina , Tefas Cristian , Groza Andrei , Tantau Marcel 
Published: September 2018

Background & Aims: The aim of this study is to present the experience of our center over the last 8 years in a series of patients with Zenker’s diverticulum (ZD), treated using an endoscopic, minimally invasive procedure.
Methods: We retrospectively included 31 patients with a previously established diagnosis of ZD based on endoscopic and oral contrast examinations. Patients’ age, comorbidities, size of the diverticulum or previous endoscopic treatment were not considered exclusion criteria. A soft, flexible diverticuloscope to expose the septum and a dual knife for “cutting” the diverticular septum were used. We analyzed the short term efficacy based on symptomatic relief and occurrence of side effects, and long term efficiency at 6 and 12 months by clinical assessment, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and oral contrast media passage.
Results: Patients had a mean age of 67 years (range 42-86); 55% of them were male. All patients reported symptom relief after the procedure. A decrease of more than 70% from the initial size of the diverticulum was noted. There were 3 cases (9.67%) of intraprocedural hemorrhage, endoscopically managed. No serious post-procedural complications and no mortality were reported. The mean procedural time was 21.87 minutes (range 15-25 minutes). Average hospitalization was 2.5 days. Five patients developed recurrence and needed a second session of endoscopic treatment for achieving complete myotomy.
Conclusions: Endoscopic management for ZD was efficient and safe in our series of patients. A short hospitalization period was required.
ELECTRODEPOSITION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF HYDROXYAPATITE/CARBON NANOTUBES (HAp/CNTs) NANOCOMPOSITE ON 316L STAINLESS STEEL
Authors: Nguyễn Thị Thơm Nguyễn Thị 
Published: September 2018

Hydroxyapatite/carbon nanotubes (HAp/CNTs) nanocomposite was successfully synthesized as a coating on 316L stainless steel (316L SS) by electrodeposition technique. The effects of scanning potential range, scanning rate, number of scans, and synthesis temperature were investigated. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and mechanical test were performed to characterise of the coatings. Suitable condition to synthesize HAp/CNTs/316L SS coatings is a scanning potential range from 0 to -1.65 V/SCE, a scanning rate of 5 mV/s, 5 scans, an electrolyte temperature of 45 oC and a CNTs concentration of 0.5 g/L in the electrolyte solution. At the condition, obtained nanocomposite coatings are composed of HAp and CNTs with the coating thickness is equal to 6.9 µm. The presence of 0.5 g/L of CNTs in the electrolyte solution, the solubility of obtained coatings is lower than that of pure HAp coating. In addition, the hardness of the HAp/CNTs coatings reaches 5.6 GPa, which was nearly 25 % higher than that of pure HAp.
Influence of oleic acid in different solvent media on BRL 3A cell growth and viability
Authors: Liu Runqi , Xu Chuang , Yang Wei , Xia Cheng , Chen Yuanyuan , Gao Sansi , Huang Baoyin , He Ping , Dong Zhihao 
Published: September 2018

Abstract: Oleic acid (OA) is widely used in pathology studies of hepatocellular lipid deposition. Identifying the effects of different solvents on OA-induced liver lipid deposition would be beneficial for studies on hepatocytes. We treated BRL 3A cells with OA dissolved in different solvents. After 12 h incubation, cell viability was assessed using MTT assays, reactive oxygen species (ROS), triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) counts, and expression level of glucose regulated protein (GRP78), sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP-1C) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) were analyzed. As results, H2O, PBS and DMSO are disadvantageous to the dissolution of OA that did not cause the corresponding response of hepatocytes. Alcohol+OA group caused severe ER stress, oxidative stress and hepatic fat deposition degree were significantly increased, but the alcohol group also leads to liver injury. BSA can promote cell growth and 1.2% BSA+OA group showed a lower grade TG and endoplasmic reticulum stress compared with KOH+OA and Alcohol+OA groups. KOH was not effective for BRL 3A cells. When treated with OA dissolved in KOH, BRL 3A cells showed a typically hepatocyte damage. KOH was considered the suitable choice of OA solvents for BRL 3A cells in hepatic lipidosis research.