Higher Corrections Research Articles

A holographic superconductor model with higher correction terms

We study general models for holographic superconductors with higher correction terms of the scalar field in the four-dimensional AdS black hole background including the matter fields' backreaction on the metric. We explore the effects of the model parameters on the scalar condensation and find that different values of model parameters can determine the order of phase transitions. Moreover, we find that the higher correction terms provide richer physics in the phase transition diagram.

A new Stckelberg holographic superconductor model

The AdS/CFT correspondence has provided us a useful approach to describe strongly interacting systems holographically through weakly coupled gravitational duals. One of the mostly studied gravity duals is the holographic superconductor, which is constructed by a scalar field coupled to a Maxwell field in an AdS black hole background. It is shown that when the Hawking temperature of a black hole drops below a critical value, the black hole becomes unstable and this instability in the (d+1) dimensional AdS black hole corresponds to a d-dimensional phase transition at the boundary, called holographic superconductor model. Generally speaking, the instability of the gravity systems belongs to the second-order phase transition. Lately, it was stated that the holographic superconductor with the spontaneous breaking of a global U(1) symmetry via the Stckelberg mechanism allows the first-order phase transition to occur. Some further studies are carried out by considering new forms of the Stckelberg mechanism. So it is very interesting to extend the discussion to other new forms of Stckelberg mechanism to explore the rich properties of holographic superconductors. By considering new higher correction terms of the scalar fields, we investigate a general class of holographic superconductors via Stckelberg mechanism in the background of four-dimensional AdS black hole. We obtain richer structures in the metal/superconductor phase transitions. We study the condensation of the scalar operator and find that when the model parameter is above a threshold value, this new model allows first-order phase transition to occur. We also examine the effects of the backreaction on the threshold model parameter and find that backreaction makes the first-order phase transitions easier to happen (or smaller threshold parameters above which the phase transition changes from second to first order). We may conclude that the model parameter coupled with the backreaction can determine the order of phase transitions.

Classical and quantum polyhedra

Quantum polyhedra constructed from angular momentum operators are the building blocks of space in its quantum description as advocated by Loop Quantum Gravity. Here we extend previous results on the semiclassical properties of quantum polyhedra. Regarding tetrahedra, we compare the results from a canonical quantization of the classical system with a recent wave function based approach to the large-volume sector of the quantum system. Both methods agree in the leading order of the resulting effective operator (given by an harmonic oscillator), while minor differences occur in higher corrections. Perturbative inclusion of such corrections improves the approximation to the eigenstates. Moreover, the comparison of both methods leads also to a full wave function description of the eigenstates of the (square of the) volume operator at negative eigenvalues of large modulus. For the case of general quantum polyhedra described by discrete angular momentum quantum numbers we formulate a set of quantum operators fulfilling in the semiclassical regime the standard commutation relations between momentum and position. Differently from previous formulations, the position variable here is chosen to have dimension of (Planck) length squared which facilitates the identification of quantum corrections. Finally, we provide expressions for the pentahedral volume in terms of Kapovich-Millson variables.

A visual tool for accessibility study of pipeline maintenance during design

Abstract Background Pipeline maintenance is becoming an important issue in modern construction and building information model (BIM) research. An understanding of pipeline accessibility considerations in terms of operation and maintenance is essential for planning and management. Previous studies have highlighted the complexity of multi-pipes including mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) pipelines and the importance of information visualization, but few have proposed a way to consider accessibility problems during operation and maintenance. Methods Therefore, this study develops a systematic method to evaluate accessibility with respect to pipeline maintenance. We first divided pipeline accessibility into three categories: (1) visual accessibility—the visibility for an inspector to view; (2) approachable accessibility—the difficulty for an inspector to approach; and (3) operational accessibility—the pipeline that can be operated by the inspectors. We created mathematical models and discussed the ergonomic details about each category. We then developed a user interface, VAO Checker, in which V, A and O stand for visual, approachable and operational respectively, to display visual information about pipeline accessibility. Through instantaneous analysis, the system visualizes the accessibility of the pipelines. We visually represent the intersection and union of these three categories to illustrate the varying accessibility of pipe elements. Results A usability test was conducted to validate the system's effectiveness. The results of the usability analysis show that users have higher correctness when using VAO Checker than 2D plan drawing and 3D model, and they evaluate the performance of this tool better than 2D plan drawing. Conclusion Pipeline designers can benefit by using this tool to sketch a suitable traffic flow for engineers to investigate. Furthermore, the substantial amount of information saved in the layout database could be referenced for future optimization.

A visual tool for accessibility study of pipeline maintenance during design

Pipeline maintenance is becoming an important issue in modern construction and building information model (BIM) research. An understanding of pipeline accessibility considerations in terms of operation and maintenance is essential for planning and management. Previous studies have highlighted the complexity of multi-pipes including mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) pipelines and the importance of information visualization, but few have proposed a way to consider accessibility problems during operation and maintenance. Therefore, this study develops a systematic method to evaluate accessibility with respect to pipeline maintenance. We first divided pipeline accessibility into three categories: (1) visual accessibility—the visibility for an inspector to view; (2) approachable accessibility—the difficulty for an inspector to approach; and (3) operational accessibility—the pipeline that can be operated by the inspectors. We created mathematical models and discussed the ergonomic details about each category. We then developed a user interface, VAO Checker, in which V, A and O stand for visual, approachable and operational respectively, to display visual information about pipeline accessibility. Through instantaneous analysis, the system visualizes the accessibility of the pipelines. We visually represent the intersection and union of these three categories to illustrate the varying accessibility of pipe elements. A usability test was conducted to validate the system's effectiveness. The results of the usability analysis show that users have higher correctness when using VAO Checker than 2D plan drawing and 3D model, and they evaluate the performance of this tool better than 2D plan drawing. Pipeline designers can benefit by using this tool to sketch a suitable traffic flow for engineers to investigate. Furthermore, the substantial amount of information saved in the layout database could be referenced for future optimization.

An Interfield and Intrafield Weighted Interpolative Deinterlacing Algorithm Based on Low-Angle Detection and Multiangle Extraction

In the process of converting interlaced scanning to progressive scanning, interline flickers, saw-tooth, and creeping could be found in motion images. This paper proposes an interfield and intrafield weighted interpolative algorithm based on low-angle detection and multiangle extraction. Using interframe difference of vertical edge area in current field and interfield difference of other areas as the input of motion detection, incorrect judgment could be avoided by four-fields motion detection so that static and motive image can be distinguished. Based on the motion image from the motion detection, multipixels are used in low-angle horizontal detection to extract higher correction angles so as to make interfield and intrafield weighted interpolation. The experiment results show that the proposed algorithm could improve peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), restrain some interlace phenomenon, and reach better visual effects. Meanwhile, there is a good balance between efficiency and computation cost.

Research on Power Expert System Technology Integrated Fault Tree Theory and Fuzzy Algorithm

The electric power system is a complex distributed system of large dimension, nonlinear, time-varying and uncertain dynamic parameters, the control and decision need expert experience, so the experts in electric power system as the control mechanism is relatively reasonable has been increasingly recognized. Automatic generation of state warning, exception reporting, monitoring of the equipment maintenance scheme and application of expert system. In this paper, by using the fault tree logic function description and fuzzy algorithm theory research of expert system based on expert system, so that the power has more accurate knowledge base and higher correctness of reasoning, in order to needs of production and operation of the power system to meet the better.

Toward a solution of a class of non-linear stochastic perturbed PDEs using automated WHEP algorithm

This paper introduces a generalization and automation of the Wiener Hermite expansion with perturbation (WHEP) technique to solve a class of stochastic nonlinear partial differential equations with a perturbed nonlinearity. The automated algorithm generates the deterministic resultant linear equations according to the application of a general linear differential operator and the input parameters. Sample output with different nonlinearities, orders and corrections are presented. The resultant equations are solved numerically and the ensemble average and variance are computed and compared with previous research work. Higher order solutions with higher corrections are computed to show the importance of the generalization of the WHEP technique. The current work extends the use of WHEP for solving stochastic nonlinear differential equations.

Prediction, attention, and unconscious processing in hierarchical auditory perception

Prediction, attention, and unconscious processing in hierarchical auditory perception

Perturbative analysis of the probability of the nonthermal transfer of an electron

The probability of the nonthermal transfer of an electron of an excited donor-acceptor complexes was calculated from the electron coupling parameter within the framework of time-dependent perturbation theory. Using the analysis of the two first corrections of the perturbation theory series for the standard spinboson model with the Debye spectral density of thermostat oscillators as a basis, we revealed the structure of higher corrections. This allowed us to sum up the series and obtain a new analytical expression distinct from the widely used Pade-approximation for the probability of the nonthermal transfer of an electron. The stochastic approach was shown to allow overestimation of the probability of nonthermal electron transitions by 40.0% in the solvent-controlled regime.

Outcome Scoring Systems for Short-term Prognosis in Critically Ill Cirrhotic Patients

Cirrhotic patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) have high mortality rates. This study evaluated specific predictors and scoring systems for hospital and 6-month mortality in critically ill cirrhotic patients. This investigation is a prospective clinical study performed in a 10-bed specialized hepatogastroenterology ICU in a tertiary care university hospital in Taiwan. Two hundred two consecutive cirrhotic patients admitted to the ICU during a 2-year period were enrolled in this study. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory variables recorded on the first day of ICU admission and scoring systems applied were prospectively recorded for post hoc analysis for predicting survival. The overall hospital mortality was 59.9%, and the 6-month mortality rate was 70.8%. The main causes of cirrhosis were hepatitis B (29%), hepatitis C (22%), and alcoholism (20%). The major cause of ICU admission was upper gastrointestinal bleeding (36%). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) score at the 48th hour of ICU admission and the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) as well as the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease scores on the first day of ICU admission were independent risk factors for hospital mortality. The SOFA score had the best discriminatory power (0.872 ± 0.036), whereas the AKIN had the best Youden index (0.57) and the highest correctness of prediction (79%). Cumulative survival rates at the 6-month follow-up after hospital discharge differed significantly (P < 0.05) for AKIN stage 0 vs. stages 1, 2, and 3, and for AKIN stage 1 vs. stage 3. The AKIN, SOFA, and Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores showed well discriminative power in predicting hospital mortality in this group of patients. The AKIN scoring system proved to be a reproducible evaluation tool with excellent prognostic abilities for these patients.

Unravelling transmission trees of infectious diseases by combining genetic and epidemiological data

Knowledge on the transmission tree of an epidemic can provide valuable insights into disease dynamics. The transmission tree can be reconstructed by analysing either detailed epidemiological data (e.g. contact tracing) or, if sufficient genetic diversity accumulates over the course of the epidemic, genetic data of the pathogen. We present a likelihood-based framework to integrate these two data types, estimating probabilities of infection by taking weighted averages over the set of possible transmission trees. We test the approach by applying it to temporal, geographical and genetic data on the 241 poultry farms infected in an epidemic of avian influenza A (H7N7) in The Netherlands in 2003. We show that the combined approach estimates the transmission tree with higher correctness and resolution than analyses based on genetic or epidemiological data alone. Furthermore, the estimated tree reveals the relative infectiousness of farms of different types and sizes.

SU-E-T-717: Research on the Inhomogeneous Correction Algorithm Based on Monte Carlo Simulation

Purpose: Batho is one of inhomogeneous correction algorithms which has high correction accuracy in homogeneous tissue, but has lower correction accuracy in cavum and the interface between different density tissues. In this paper, the database of dose distribution with every kinds of different density tissues combination by Monte Carlo simulation is built up for the purpose of development for fast and accurate dose calculation method. Methods: The MC simulation models are built as follow. Model 1: in 30cm×30cm×30cm cube phantom full of one homogeneity tissue. In module 2:1cm×1cm×1cm cube inhomogeneous tissue is put in the central axis (0,0,0.5),(0,0,1.5,)…(0,0,29.5) (each down 1cm) of model 1 respectively. These phantoms are segmented into 0.2cm × 0.2cm × 0.2cm volumes. For simplicity, the inhomogeneous tissue of human body is classified to typical tissues (water, bone etc.) by electron densities. The dose distribution of homogeneous tissue and inhomogeneous tissue is simulated by MC in model 1 and model 2.All dose value is normalized to the point (0,0,1.5). Then database of dose distribution relative error between dose distribution of mode 2 and mode l could be established. At any point p, the destiny change along the primary ray path judged by program firstly. Batho algorithm is used in uniform region. In the interface between different tissues and inside cavity, the dose value will be corrected by the database of relative error. Results: Comparing with the correction result of pure Batho algorithm, this program can gain more accurate correction results close to MC in short time in the interface between different tissues and cavity. Conclusions: In this paper, the higher correction accuracy could be achieved and the method is simple, easy to implement. The result of this study can provide fast and accurate dose calculation module radiation planning system. The work is supported by National 973 Planned Project (2006CB708307), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (60872112 and 10805012), the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province (Z207588), the College Science Research Projects of Anhui Province (KJ2008B268).

Parameter Estimation Accuracy of FFT and FT Discrete Spectrum Correction

The parameter estimation error of continuous zoom analysis Fourier transform is studied by applying FFT and FT to spectrum correction.The relation between estimation error of frequency,phase and amplitude and zoom multiples is revealed in the presence of noise-free signal.Parameter estimation accuracy can be improved by increasing zoom multiples,and the maximum error of each parameter is very little when zoom multiple is greater than 40.To the signal with Gaussian white noise,the probability of finding the wrong maximum spectrum line increases with the rise of zoom multiple.Considering the influence of frequency resolution on frequency estimation accuracy and the probability mentioned above,two evaluation indicators,called normalized frequency estimation comprehensive error(NFE) and normalized frequency estimation maximum error(NFEM) are given to provide the best zoom multiple under different signal to noise ratio.The FFT and FT spectrum correction method is modified and improved,and the simulation results indicate that the improved method has higher correction accuracy and anti-noise ability.

Application of activity-based costing to a land transportation company: A case study

Although there are many studies in the literature that explain modern costing approaches including activity-based costing (ABC), the number of studies that present real life applications is very few. This is especially true for logistics and transportation applications. One of the main difficulties in land transportation companies is to determine and evaluate true cost of their operations and services. If used and implemented properly, ABC can be very helpful for transportation companies to determine cost of their operations with higher correctness. In this paper, an application of ABC to a land transportation company that is located in Turkey is presented in detail. In order to improve the effectiveness of the ABC an integrated approach that combines ABC with business process modeling and analytical hierarchy approach is proposed. It is figured out that the proposed approach is quite effective in costing services of the land transportation company compared to the existing traditional costing system which is in use.

중년기 남성의 가족 및 직업관련 변인과 생활만족도의 관계

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships of middle-aged men's family and work related variables and satisfaction. Based on the results of the study, the following was concluded ; First, there were significant differences in men's satisfaction across education level, economic variables, and occupation. Second, family related variables, work related variables, and work-family conflict were significantly correlated with satisfaction. In reference to family related variable, satisfaction was higher when marital satisfaction is good, parental stress, adult caring burden, and work-family conflict are lower. In reference to work related variables, satisfaction is higher when job stress is lower, job security is lower, and colleague relationship is good. Third, family related variables, work related variables, and work-family conflict were significantly correlated with mutually one another. Specifically, parental stress is correlated with work related variables. A higher correction was reported between work-family conflict and job stress. Finally, results of multiple regression analysis showed that these variable influenced middle-aged men's satisfaction. Moreover, the degree of explanation for satisfaction increased more, when family and work related variables, and work-family conflict add in individual character variables.

Intraocular lens power calculation in short eyes

To compare the accuracy of the Hoffer Q and SRK-T formulae in eyes below 22 mm in axial length, using biometry measured with partial coherence inferometry (PCI), without a customised ACD constant. Data were retrospectively and prospectively collected by identifying eyes of axial length below 22 mm in the records of the intraocular lens (IOL) master and in preoperative notes. Biometry was performed using PCI and IOL power was calculated using both SRK-T and Hoffer Q formulae. Refractive outcome was measured and the accuracy of the two formulae compared. Forty-one eyes of 41 patients were identified with an axial length <22 mm. Axial lengths ranged from 21.96 to 20.29 with a mean of 21.51 mm, and IOL power ranging from 23 dioptres (D) to 29 D. The Hoffer Q formula showed a mean prediction error of 0.61 D (SD 0.80) compared with the SRK-T, which showed a mean prediction error of 0.87 D (SD 0.829). A paired t-test found that the Hoffer Q was significantly more accurate than the SRK-T formula (P<0.001). Hoffer Q was found to be more accurate than the SRK-T formula in this series of eyes <22 mm axial length when customised ACD constants are not used. Royal College of Ophthalmologists guidelines may need to be adjusted in accordance with these findings. This study underlines the importance of monitoring outcomes, and suggests different customisations are needed for different formulae, with a higher correction if the SRK-T formula is used for short eyes.

Mitchell and Wilson Metatarsal Osteotomies for the Treatment of Hallux Valgus: Comparison of Outcomes Two Decades after the Surgery

At short-term followup, the Mitchell osteotomy appears to provide more symptomatic improvement than the Wilson osteotomy. We compared the outcomes of the two procedures two decades after the surgeries. In a two-center retrospective study, 30 patients (35 feet) who had Mitchell osteotomies and 28 patients (35 feet) who had Wilson osteotomies were evaluated 20 to 22 years after surgery for correction of the hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal (IMA) angle, changes in the shortening of the first metatarsal and improvement in the overall status (a composite radiographic and clinical outcome according to Bonney and McNab). With adjustment for the preoperative values and surgical center (analysis of covariance), the HVA (degrees) had a higher correction in the Mitchell group (p = 0.075), while IMA was comparably corrected by the two methods. Shortening of the first metatarsal was greater in the Wilson group (Mitchell-Wilson = -1.93, 95% CI -2.69 to -1.17, p < 0.001). Before the surgery, overall status was graded "poor" or "good" in all feet (28/7 Mitchell, 29/6 Wilson). After the surgery, the status was graded "excellent" or "good" (29/6) in the Mitchell group, and "excellent," "good" or "poor" (25/7/3) in the Wilson group. The status was improved by at least one grade-level in all 35 feet in the Mitchell group and in 31 of 35 feet in the Wilson group. With stratification for the preoperative status, the proportion of "improvements" was higher in the Mitchell group (Mitchell-Wilson = 11.1%, 95% CI 0.7 to 21.5%, p = 0.036). In an alternative analysis (logistic regression), with adjustment for the preoperative status, center, and IMA values, the Mitchell method also appeared superior in this outcome (likelihood ratio test p = 0.021). As assessed 20 to 22 years after the surgery, the Mitchell osteotomy resulted in less shortening of the first metatarsal in a somewhat greater proportion of feet with an improved overall status than the Wilson method.

Black string's tunnelling radiation

We use the Parikh–Wilczek method to study the tunnelling radiation from the event of the black string, which is asymptotically anti-de Sitter and possesses cylindrical symmetry. We show that higher corrections to the semi-classical rate which are caused by energy conservation and angular momentum conservation exist and the emission rate has completely the same functional form as that for spherically symmetric or axisymmetric black holes.

Kyphoplasty Reduction of Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures: Correction of Local Kyphosis Versus Overall Sagittal Alignment

A retrospective study of patients who underwent 1-3-level kyphoplasty procedures at a single institute. To examine and compare the effects of single and multilevel kyphoplasty procedures on local versus overall sagittal alignment of the spine. Cement augmentation has been a safe and effective method in the treatment of symptomatic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). In addition to providing rapid pain relief, balloon tamp kyphoplasty has reduced acute fractures, allowed controlled cement placement under lower pressure, and resulted in improvement of deformity. The restoration of normal overall spinal sagittal alignment in the elderly patient with a VCF and kyphotic deformity has obvious benefits. Although significant correction of local kyphosis (fractured vertebra) has been reported in the literature, to our knowledge, there have been no reports on whether this leads to an improved overall sagittal alignment. A total of 65 consecutive patients with symptomatic VCFs who underwent 1-3-level kyphoplasty procedures were included in the study. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were analyzed to quantify local and overall spinal sagittal alignment correction. Preoperative and postoperative vertebral heights at the fractured levels were also measured and categorized into anterior, middle, or posterior vertebral heights. Measurements revealed that kyphoplasty reduced local kyphotic deformity at the fractured vertebra by an average of 7.3 degrees (63% of preoperative kyphosis). This result did not translate to similar correction in overall sagittal alignment. In fact, angular correction decreased to 2.4 degrees (20% of preoperative kyphosis at fractured level) when measured 1 level above and below. The angular correction further decreased to 1.5 degrees and 1.0 degrees (13% and 8% of preoperative kyphosis at fractured level), respectively, at spans of 2 and 3 levels above and below. Average height gain was highest in the middle of the vertebral body (39% increase) compared to the anterior or posterior edges (19% and 3% increases, respectively). With multilevel kyphoplasty procedures, higher angular gains were seen over more vertebrae compared to the 7.3 degrees for a single-level kyphoplasty: 7.8 degrees over 2 levels and 7.7 degrees over 3 levels for 2 and 3-level kyphoplasty procedures, respectively. Kyphoplasty was able to achieve higher angular reduction in thoracic versus lumbar fractures (8.5 vs. 6.4 degrees, P < 0.01). The angular correction was also better maintained over adjacent segments in the thoracic spine. The majority of kyphosis correction by kyphoplasty is limited to the vertebral body treated. The majority of height gained after kyphoplasty occurs in the midbody. Higher correction over longer spans of the spine can be achieved with multilevel kyphoplasty procedures, in proportion to the number of levels addressed. Notwithstanding its well-published clinical efficacy, it is unrealistic to expect a 1 or 2-level kyphoplasty to improve significantly the overall sagittal alignment after VCFs.