bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Control of bilateral teleoperators with time delays using only position measurements
Authors: Nuño Emmanuel , Arteaga‐Pérez Marco , Espinosa‐Pérez Gerardo 
Published: August 2017

SummaryA major drawback in the control of bilateral teleoperators is time delays. The nature of the communication channel that interconnects the local and the remote manipulators imposes these delays, which can be time‐varying. Several commercially available robots do not incorporate velocity sensors, and velocities are usually estimated using dirty derivatives. In this paper, we are interested in the control of bilateral teleoperators with variable time delays and without requiring velocity measurements. The proposal makes use of a second‐order dynamical controller that backpropagates damping to the local and the remote manipulators. If sufficient damping is injected in the controller and under the common passivity assumption of the human operator and the environment, it is proved that position errors and velocities are bounded. Invoking Barbalat's lemma, when the human and the environment do not inject forces in the system, it is shown that position error and velocities globally asymptotically converge to zero. A simulation comparison with other two control techniques shows the performance of the novel proposal. Experimental results evidence the robustness of the proposed scheme to interconnecting time delays.
How much groundwater can we pump and protect environmental flows through time? Presumptive standards for conjunctive management of aquifers and rivers
Authors: Gleeson T. , Richter B. 
Published: August 2017

AbstractGroundwater is a critically important source of water for river, wetland, lake, and terrestrial ecosystems, yet most frameworks for assessing environmental flows have ignored or not explicitly included the potential impacts of groundwater pumping on environmental flows. After assessing the processes and existing policies for protecting streamflow depletion from groundwater pumping, we argue that a new groundwater presumptive standard is critical as a placeholder to protect environmental flows in rivers lacking detailed assessments. We thus extend the previous presumptive standard to groundwater pumping, a different and important driver of changes to streamflow. We suggest that “high levels of ecological protection will be provided if groundwater pumping decreases monthly natural baseflow by less than 10% through time.” The presumptive standard is intended to be a critical placeholder only where detailed scientific assessments of environmental flow needs cannot be undertaken in the near term. We also suggest a new metric, the environmental flow response time, that allows water managers to quantify the timescales of the impacts of groundwater pumping on the loss or gain of environmental flows.
Turbulent flow field comparison and related suitability for fish passage of a standard and a simplified low‐gradient vertical slot fishway
Authors: Quaranta E. , Katopodis C. , Revelli R. , Comoglio C. 
Published: August 2017

AbstractFishways are hydraulic structures that allow passage of fish across obstructions in rivers. Vertical slot fishways—VSFs—are considered the most efficient and least selective type of technical fishway solutions, especially due to their ability to remain effective even when significant upstream and/or downstream water level fluctuations occur. The scope of the present study is to perform numerical simulations in order to investigate and compare the hydraulic turbulent flow field in a standard and a simplified version of the most common VSF design. Implications in relation to fish swimming behaviour and fish passage performance are discussed. Different water depths (as well as discharges) were investigated, using a bed slope of 5%, as a reference for low‐gradient VSFs with a very limited selectivity that can be used in multispecies rivers in grayling‐barbel regions. Results show that maximum values of velocity, turbulent kinetic energy, and Reynolds stresses are higher in the standard design. However, corresponding to slot geometry and orientation, the direction of the main jet in the simplified design is more inclined towards the left side of the pool. This causes the eddy to split into 2 smaller ones; the minimum eddy dimension is reduced from 0.4–0.5 to 0.2–0.3 m. These dimensions are detrimental for fish passage efficiency, being more comparable with fish length (0.15–0.40 m), thus affecting migrating fish stability and orientation. Furthermore, the standard design provides a more straightforward upstream path and wider areas of low flow velocities and turbulence, useful for fish resting. Therefore, it is recommended that the standard design should be preferred over its simplified version, even if its construction costs are around 10–15% higher than the simplified one.
Managing risk in high assurance systems by optimizing topological resources
Authors: Hyden Paul , McGrath Richard G. , Moskowitz Ira S. , Russell Stephen 
Published: August 2017

AbstractWe explore strategies for manipulating the topology of a network to promote increased and pragmatic high assurance systems. Topology matters to network threats and security, and the relative distance between nodes can impact the rate of dispersion of viruses, as well as access times in denial of service, probing, and insider threat attacks. We suggest methods to separate threatening and threatened nodes with enough hops to reduce and degrade risks. This work provides network analysts with an option to include other measures such as risk assessments to the construction and management of high assurance systems. We consider a scaled down model to demonstrate the proof of concept using artificial data. Specifically, we explore the efficacy of ring networks and the structure that occurs on k‐hop networks when there are a prime number of nodes. We introduce techniques for the randomization of network topologies to manage real‐time risk and provide a dynamic means to improve network security by increasing technical debt to a potential attacker.
KIND‐DAMA: A modular middleware for Kinect‐like device data management
Authors: Milazzo Fabrizio , Gentile Vito , Gentile Antonio , Sorce Salvatore 
Published: August 2017

SummaryIn the last decades, we have witnessed a growing interest toward touchless gestural user interfaces. Among other reasons, this is due to the large availability of different low‐cost gesture acquisition hardware (the so‐called “Kinect‐like devices”). As a consequence, there is a growing need for solutions that allow to easily integrate such devices within actual systems. In this paper, we present KIND‐DAMA, an open and modular middleware that helps in the development of interactive applications based on gestural input. We first review the existing middlewares for gestural data management. Then, we describe the proposed architecture and compare its features against the existing similar solutions we found in the literature. Finally, we present a set of studies and use cases that show the effectiveness of our proposal in some possible real‐world scenarios.
Chromatin‐associated noncoding RNAs in development and inheritance
Authors: Acharya Sreemukta , Hartmann Mark , Erhardt Sylvia 
Published: August 2017

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as crucial players in chromatin regulation. Their diversity allows them to partake in the regulation of numerous cellular processes across species. During development, long and short ncRNAs act in conjunction with each other where long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) are best understood in establishing appropriate gene expression patterns, while short ncRNAs (sRNAs) are known to establish constitutive heterochromatin and suppress mobile elements. Additionally, increasing evidence demonstrates roles of sRNAs in several typically lncRNA‐mediated processes such as dosage compensation, indicating a complex regulatory network of noncoding RNAs. Together, various ncRNAs establish many mitotically heritable epigenetic marks during development. Additionally, they participate in mechanisms that regulate maintenance of these epigenetic marks during the lifespan of the organism. Interestingly, some epigenetic traits are transmitted to the next generation(s) via paramutations or transgenerational inheritance mediated by sRNAs. In this review, we give an overview of the various functions and regulations of ncRNAs and the mechanisms they employ in the establishment and maintenance of epigenetic marks and multi‐generational transmission of epigenetic traits. WIREs RNA 2017, 8:e1435. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1435This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications
Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs
RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Development
Strategies for International Travel with “High-Tech” Archaeological Field Equipment
Authors: Limp William F. , Williamson Malcolm D. 
Published: August 2017

ABSTRACTConducting archaeological fieldwork increasingly relies on “high-tech” instruments. These include such technologies as portable X-ray diffraction; ground penetrating radar; high-precision global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receivers; laser scanners; multispectral, thermal, lidar, and hyperspectral instruments on Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs); and many others. Using these devices internationally can present complex issues with export regulations and the potential for duties and value-added taxes. In short, there are many regulations affecting the movement of these devices across international borders. In the past, archaeologists had interactions with customs personnel and faced the complexities of import and export laws at the end of a project, as they dealt with the issues of taking samples or artifacts out of a country for study. Today's archaeologists must be prepared before they even begin their travel to ensure that their equipment and software can travel overseas. This article provides a practical overview of the laws, regulations, and practices affecting international transport of the archaeological high-tech tool kit.
Investigation of the flowfield induced by simulated battle damage
Authors: Almond Mathew. T. , Render Peter M. , Walker A. Duncan , Howlett A. 
Published: August 2017

ABSTRACTParticle Image Velocimetry (PIV) has been used to study the complex flowfield created by simulated battle damage to a two-dimensional wing. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) predictions have also been used for validation of internal cavity flow. Two damage cases were selected for the study; both cases were simulated using a single hole with diameters equal to 20% and 40% of the chord, located at the wing half-chord. Wind-tunnel tests were conducted at a Reynolds number of 500,000 over a range of incidences from 0 to 10° with two-component PIV measurements made on three chordwise and three spanwise planes. The PIV data were analysed and compared to CFD data of the same damage cases. The PIV data have shown lower velocity ratios and lower vorticity in the jet compared to past Jet in Cross-Flow experiments and CFD was used to describe the flow features inside the cavity of the wing. It was seen that the wing cavity has large effects on the external flow features, particularly for the 20% damage case. Finally, the flow field data have been related to force balance data. At higher incidence angles, the larger force coefficient increments in both lift and drag can be attributed to the larger wakes and higher jet strengths.
The relationship between exclusion from school and mental health: a secondary analysis of the British Child and Adolescent Mental Health Surveys 2004 and 2007
Authors: Ford T. , Parker C. , Salim J. , Goodman R. , Logan S. , Henley W. 
Published: August 2017

BackgroundChildren with poor mental health often struggle at school. The relationship between childhood psychiatric disorder and exclusion from school has not been frequently studied, but both are associated with poor adult outcomes. We undertook a secondary analysis of the British Child and Adolescent Mental Health Surveys from 2004 and its follow-up in 2007 to explore the relationship between exclusion from school and psychopathology. We predicted poorer mental health among those excluded.MethodPsychopathology was measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, while psychiatric disorder was assessed using the Development and Well-Being Assessment and applying Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition (DSM IV) criteria. Exclusion from school and socio-demographic characteristics were reported by parents. Multi-variable regression models were used to examine the impact of individual factors on exclusion from school or psychological distress.ResultsExclusion from school was commoner among boys, secondary school pupils and those living in socio-economically deprived circumstances. Poor general health and learning disability among children and poor parental mental health were also associated with exclusion. There were consistently high levels of psychological distress among those who had experienced exclusion at baseline and follow-up.ConclusionsWe detected a bi-directional association between psychological distress and exclusion. Efforts to identify and support children who struggle with school may therefore prevent both future exclusion and future psychiatric disorder.
ABNORMAL NARRATIVES: DISABILITY AND OMNISCIENCE IN THE VICTORIAN NOVEL
Authors: Tarr Clayton Carlyle 
Published: August 2017

In Charlotte Brontë’sVillette(1853), Lucy Snowe is tasked to deliver a “little basket” to the mysterious shut-in Madame Walravens (396; ch. 34). After crossing an “inhospitable threshold” (398) that leads to an “inhospitable salon” (400), Lucy is told to wait for the lady of the house, who will serve as both grandmother and wolf in this Red Riding Hood revision. Caught in a dreamlike, “fairy tale” trance, Lucy focuses her attention on a curious picture, which “give[s] way” to expose an arched doorway and a winding staircase. The tapestry momentarily displaced, Lucy hears the taps of a walking-stick, and then spies a “substance” that eventually materializes into the distinct form of Madame Walravens: “She might be three feet high, but she had no shape. . .. Her face was large, set, not upon her shoulders, but before her breast; she seemed to have no neck.” Lucy proceeds to call her host “[h]unchbacked,” and “dwarfish” — a “barbarian queen,” an “uncouth thing,” and an “old witch of a grand-dame” (399–402; ch. 34), who is as “hideous as a Hindoo idol” (473; ch. 39). Most important, Lucy notes the “violence of a temper which deformity made sometimes demoniac” (403; ch. 34). Madame Walravens's physical abnormalities make her not just the villain of a fairy tale, but a supernatural terror. Lucy may only confront the reality of disability by transforming it into a “tale of magic” (399; ch. 34) — one that she escapes by re-crossing the “inhospitable threshold.”
Understanding materials challenges for rechargeable ion batteries with in situ transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Yuan Yifei , Amine Khalil , Lu Jun , Shahbazian-Yassar Reza 
Published: August 2017

AbstractAn in-depth understanding of material behaviours under complex electrochemical environment is critical for the development of advanced materials for the next-generation rechargeable ion batteries. The dynamic conditions inside a working battery had not been intensively explored until the advent of various in situ characterization techniques. Real-time transmission electron microscopy of electrochemical reactions is one of the most significant breakthroughs poised to enable radical shift in our knowledge on how materials behave in the electrochemical environment. This review, therefore, summarizes the scientific discoveries enabled by in situ transmission electron microscopy, and specifically emphasizes the applicability of this technique to address the critical challenges in the rechargeable ion battery electrodes, electrolyte and their interfaces. New electrochemical systems such as lithium–oxygen, lithium–sulfur and sodium ion batteries are included, considering the rapidly increasing application of in situ transmission electron microscopy in these areas. A systematic comparison between lithium ion-based electrochemistry and sodium ion-based electrochemistry is also given in terms of their thermodynamic and kinetic differences. The effect of the electron beam on the validity of in situ observation is also covered. This review concludes by providing a renewed perspective for the future directions of in situ transmission electron microscopy in rechargeable ion batteries.
Age Related Differences in Responsiveness to Sildenafil and Tamsulosin are due to Myogenic Smooth Muscle Tone in the Human Prostate
Authors: Lee Sophie N. , Chakrabarty Basu , Wittmer Brad , Papargiris Melissa , Ryan Andrew , Frydenberg Mark , Lawrentschuk Nathan , Middendorff Ralf , Risbridger Gail P. , Ellem Stuart J. , Exintaris Betty 
Published: August 2017

AbstractLower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) are highly prevalent in older men, having a profound impact on patient quality of life. Current therapeutics for BPH/LUTS target neurogenic smooth muscle tone, but response is unpredictable and many patients fail to respond. Spontaneous myogenic tone is another component of smooth muscle contractility that is uncharacterized in human prostate. To better understand and improve the predictability of patient response, we defined myogenic contractility using human prostate specimens and examined the effect of existing therapeutics. We show that myogenic activity is present in the human prostate with the frequency of contractions in transition zone (TZ) specimens from BPH diagnosed patients approximately 160% greater than matched controls. α1-adrenoreceptor antagonists (Tamsulosin) and PDE5 inhibitors (Sildenafil) both significantly reduced myogenic contractile parameters, including frequency, with notable interpatient variability. Tamsulosin was more effective in older patients (R2 = 0.36, p < 0.01) and men with larger prostate volumes (R2 = 0.41, p < 0.05), while Sildenafil was more effective in younger men (R2 = 0.45, p < 0.05). As myogenic tone is significantly increased in BPH, therapeutics targeting this mechanism used with reference to patient characteristics could improve clinical outcomes and better predict patient response.
Development and validation of a risk prediction model for end-stage renal disease in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Lin Cheng-Chieh , Li Chia-Ing , Liu Chiu-Shong , Lin Wen-Yuan , Lin Chih-Hsueh , Yang Sing-Yu , Li Tsai-Chung 
Published: August 2017

AbstractThe aim of this study is to develop a prediction model for ESRD in patients with type 2 diabetes. A retrospective cohort study was conducted, consisting of 24,104 Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes. We adopted the procedures proposed by the Framingham Heart Study to develop a prediction model for ESRD. Participants were randomly assigned to the derivation and validation sets at a 2:1 ratio. The Cox proportional hazard regression model was used for model development. A total of 813 and 402 subjects (5.06% and 5.00%, respectively) developed ESRD in the derivation and validation sets over a mean follow-up period of 8.3 years. The risk-scoring systems included age, gender, age of diabetes onset, combined statuses of blood pressure and anti-hypertensive medication use, creatinine, variation in HbA1c, variation in systolic blood pressure, diabetes retinopathy, albuminuria, anti-diabetes medications, and combined statuses of hyperlipidemia and anti-hyperlipidemia medication use. The area under curves of 3-year, 5-year, and 8-year ESRD risks were 0.90, 0.86, and 0.81 in the derivation set, respectively. This risk score model can be used as screening for early prevention. The risk prediction for 3-year, 5-year, and 8-year period demonstrated good predictive accuracy and discriminatory ability.
Differences in characteristics of glucose intolerance between patients with NAFLD and chronic hepatitis C as determined by CGMS
Authors: Ochi Tsunehiro , Kawaguchi Takumi , Nakahara Takashi , Ono Masafumi , Noguchi Shuhei , Koshiyama Yuichi , Munekage Kensuke , Murakami Eisuke , Hiramatsu Akira , Ogasawara Mitsunari , Hirose Akira , Mizuta Hiroshi , Masuda Kosei , Okamoto Nobuto , Suganuma Narufumi , Chayama Kazuaki , Yamaguchi Masahiro , Torimura Takuji , Saibara Toshiji 
Published: August 2017

AbstractGlucose intolerance frequently develops in accordance with the progression of chronic liver disease. However, differences in the characteristics of glucose intolerance between patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and those with chronic hepatitis C (C-CH) remain incompletely understood. To clarify these differences, patients with NAFLD (n = 37) and C-CH (n = 40) were evaluated with a continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS). In the patients with NAFLD, Maximum blood glucose concentration and blood glucose swings were significantly correlated with hepatic fibrosis markers. In the patients with C-CH, however, those two CGMS parameters were negatively correlated with the serum albumin (ALB) concentration. Furthermore, in the patients with C-CH with an ALB concentration of ≤4.0 g/dl, those two CGMS parameters were negatively correlated with the ALB concentration with greater statistical significance. In conclusion, obvious differences in the characteristics of glucose intolerance between patients with NAFLD and those with C-CH were clarified. In patients with NAFLD, glucose intolerance gradually progressed in accordance with the progression of hepatic fibrosis. In those with C-CH, glucose intolerance suddenly developed upon the appearance of hypoalbuminaemia.
An oxytocin-dependent social interaction between larvae and adult C. elegans
Authors: Scott Euan , Hudson Adam , Feist Emily , Calahorro Fernando , Dillon James , de Freitas Raissa , Wand Matthew , Schoofs Liliane , O’Connor Vincent , Holden-Dye Lindy 
Published: August 2017

AbstractOxytocin has a conserved role in regulating animal social behaviour including parental-offspring interactions. Recently an oxytocin-like neuropeptide, nematocin, and its cognate receptors have been identified in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We provide evidence for a pheromone signal produced by C. elegans larvae that modifies the behaviour of adult animals in an oxytocin-dependent manner increasing their probability of leaving a food patch which the larvae are populating. This increase is positively correlated to the size of the larval population but cannot be explained by food depletion nor is it modulated by biogenic amines, which suggest it is not an aversive behaviour. Moreover, the food-leaving behaviour is conspecific and pheromone dependent: C. elegans adults respond more strongly to C. elegans larvae compared to other nematode species and this effect is absent in C. elegans daf-22 larvae which are pheromone deficient. Neurotransmitter receptors previously implicated in C. elegans foraging decisions NPR-1 and TYRA-3, for NPY-like neuropeptides and tyramine respectively, do not appear to be involved in oxytocin-dependent adult food-leaving. We conclude oxytocin signals within a novel neural circuit that regulates parental-offspring social behaviour in C. elegans and that this provides evidence for evolutionary conservation of molecular components of a parental decision making behaviour.