bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Negative Pressure Incision Management System in the Prevention of Groin Wound Infection in Vascular Surgery Patients
Authors: Koetje Jan H. , Ottink Karsten D. , Feenstra Iris , Fritschy Wilbert M.
Published: November 2015

Objectives. Groin wounds following vascular surgery are highly susceptible to healing disturbances, with reported site infections reaching 30%. Negative pressure incision management systems (NPIMS) are believed to positively influence the prevention of surgical wound-healing disturbances (WHD) and surgical site infections (SSI). NPIMS placed directly after closure of the surgical wound is thought to result in fewer infections; we analysed its effect on postoperative wound infections in patients after vascular surgery via the groin.Methods. From May 2012 to March 2013 we included 90 surgical patients; 40 received a NPIMS. All patients with WHDs were labelled and subanalysed for surgical site infection in case of positive microbiological culture. These infections were graded according to Szilagyi. Number of WHDs and SSIs were compared across cohorts.Results. Patient and perioperative characteristics were equal, except for a significantly higher number of emergency procedures among non-NPIMS patients. We found no significant differences in number of WHDs, SSIs, or Szilagyi grades between the two cohorts.Conclusion. The equal number of SSIs across cohorts showed that NPIMS could not reduce the number of surgical site infections after vascular groin surgery.
Anonymous Authentication Scheme for Intercommunication in the Internet of Things Environments
Authors: Chung Youngseok , Choi Seokjin , Won Dongho
Published: November 2015

Authentication and privacy protection are important security mechanisms for keeping things safe in the Internet of Things environments. In particular, an anonymous authentication scheme is a privacy preserving authentication technique which provides both authentication and privacy preservation. An authentication scheme with anonymity in mobility networks was proposed recently. However, it was proven that it failed to provide anonymity against passive adversaries and malicious users and security against known session key attacks and side channel attacks. We propose an anonymous authentication scheme for intercommunication between the things in the Internet of Things environments. The proposed scheme provides not only anonymity and security, but also untraceability for the thing. Moreover, we only use low cost functions, such as hash functions and exclusive-OR operations in consideration of limited computing power of the thing.
Synergistic Effects of BMP9 and miR-548d-5p on Promoting Osteogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang LiCheng , Zhou Yan , Ji XinRan , Liu JianHeng , Liu DaoHong , Yin Peng , Peng Ye , Hao Ming , Zhang LiHai , Tang PeiFu
Published: November 2015

Various stimulators have been reported to promote MSC osteogenic differentiation via different pathways such as bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) through influencing COX-2 and miR-548d-5p through targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ(PPARγ). Whether synergistic effects between BMP9 and miR-548d-5p existed in promoting osteogenesis from MSCs was unclear. In the study, the potential synergistic effects of BMP9 and miR-548d-5p on human MSC differentiation were investigated. Osteogenic differentiation of MSCs treated with BMP9 or miR-548d-5p was detected with multimodality of methods. The results demonstrated that BMP9 and miR-548d-5p significantly influenced COX-2 and PPARγ, respectively. BMP9 also influenced the expression of PPARγ, but no significant effect of miR-548d-5p on COX-2 was observed. When BMP9 and miR-548d-5p were combined, more potent effects on both COX-2 and PPARγwere observed than BMP9 or miR-548d-5p alone. Consistently, osteogenic analysis at different timepoints demonstrated that osteogenic genes, ALP activity, calcium deposition, OPN protein, and matrix mineralization were remarkably upregulated by BMP9/miR-548d-5p compared with BMP9 or miR-548d-5p alone, indicating the synergetic effects of BMP9 and miR-548d-5p on osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Our study demonstrated that regulating different osteogenic regulators may be an effective strategy to promote bone tissue regeneration for bone defects.
Isoflurane Damages the Developing Brain of Mice and Induces Subsequent Learning and Memory Deficits through FASL-FAS Signaling
Authors: Yi Xiuwen , Cai Yirong , Li Wenxian
Published: November 2015

Background. Isoflurane disrupts brain development of neonatal mice, but its mechanism is unclear. We explored whether isoflurane damaged developing hippocampi through FASL-FAS signaling pathway, which is a well-known pathway of apoptosis.Method. Wild type and FAS- or FASL-gene-knockout mice aged 7 days were exposed to either isoflurane or pure oxygen. We used western blotting to study expressions of caspase-3, FAS (CD95), and FAS ligand (FASL or CD95L) proteins, TUNEL staining to count apoptotic cells in hippocampus, and Morris water maze (MWM) to evaluate learning and memory.Result. Isoflurane increased expression of FAS and FASL proteins in wild type mice. Compared to isoflurane-treated FAS- and FASL-knockout mice, isoflurane-treated wild type mice had higher expression of caspase-3 and more TUNEL-positive hippocampal cells. Expression of caspase-3 in wild isoflurane group, wild control group, FAS/FASL-gene-knockout control group, and FAS/FASL-gene-knockout isoflurane group showed FAS or FASL gene knockout might attenuate increase of caspase-3 caused by isoflurane. MWM showed isoflurane treatment of wild type mice significantly prolonged escape latency and reduced platform crossing times compared with gene-knockout isoflurane-treated groups.Conclusion. Isoflurane induces apoptosis in developing hippocampi of wild type mice but not in FAS- and FASL-knockout mice and damages brain development through FASL-FAS signaling.
Effectiveness and Safety of Manufactured Chinese Herbal Formula for Knee Osteoarthritis: Insights from a Systematic Review
Authors: Zhu Liguo , Yang Shaofeng , Wang Shangquan , Gong Hao , Li Linghui , Wei Xu
Published: November 2015

Objective. To assess the current clinical evidence of manufactured Chinese herbal formulae (MCHF) for knee osteoarthritis (KOA).Methods. Seven databases were searched from inception to May 2015. Eligible randomized controlled trials investigating the effectiveness of MCHF for KOA were included. Data extraction, methodological assessment, and meta-analyses were conducted according to the Cochrane standards.Results. A total of 17 kinds of MCHF were identified from the twenty-six included trials. Meta-analyses showed that MCHF significantly relieved the global pain of knee joints, either used alone or combined with routine treatments. Additionally, MCHF plus routine treatments significantly decreased the scores of WOMAC and Lequesne index. However, there were no statistical differences between MCHF group and routine treatment group in walk-related pain and WOMAC scores. No significant differences were found in Lysholm scores. There were twenty-one trials that mentioned adverse events. A pooled analysis showed that adverse events occurred more frequently in control group compared with MCHF group.Conclusions. Our results indicated that MCHF showed some potential benefits for KOA. However, we still cannot draw firm conclusions due to the poor methodological quality of included trials. More high-quality RCTs would help to confirm the evidence.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Electronic Structure Studies of Cubic Bi1.5ZnTa1.5O7for Photocatalytic Applications
Authors: Perenlei Ganchimeg , Alarco Jose A. , Talbot Peter C. , Martens Wayde N.
Published: November 2015

Bi1.5ZnTa1.5O7(BZT) has been synthesized using an alkoxide based sol-gel reaction route. The evolution of the phases produced from the alkoxide precursors and their properties have been characterized as function of temperature using a combination of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS), infrared emission spectrometry (IES), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet and visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and N2adsorption/desorption isotherms. The lowest sintering temperature (600°C) to obtain phase pure BZT powders with high surface area (14.5 m2/g) has been determined from the thermal decomposition and phase analyses. The photocatalytic activity of the BZT powders has been tested for the decolorization of organic azo-dye and found to be photoactive under UV irradiation. The electronic band structure of the BZT has been investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations to determine the band gap energy (3.12 eV) and to compare it with experimental band gap (3.02 eV at 800°C) from optical absorption measurements. An excellent match is obtained for an assumption of Zn cation substitutions at specifically ordered sites in the BZT structure.
Orocutaneous Fistula or Traumatic Infectious Skin Lesion: A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Vermani Mayank , Kalia Vimal , Singh Sumita , Garg Sunny , Aggarwal Shweta , Khurana Richa , Kalra Geeta
Published: November 2015

Orocutaneous fistula (OCF) (of dental origin) is an uncommon but well-described condition in the literature. These are often misdiagnosed by physicians and dentists. Careful selection of investigating modality is important in case of diagnostically challenging cases. A 19-year-old female came with a complaint of a lesion on the chin reported with h/o trauma with the impact on chin presented as diagnostic dilemma because of unusual case history and clinical examination. Commonly used radiographic investigations like IOPA and orthopantomograph did not resolve the dilemma whereas advanced imaging modality like CT scan, 3D volume imaging, and contrast enhanced CT played an important role in the diagnosis of OCF and selecting the treatment plan.
TraIL: Pinpoint Trajectory for Indoor Localization
Authors: Li Shengnan , Qin Zheng , Wu Chenshu , Yang Zheng
Published: November 2015

Indoor localization on smartphones is an enabler for a number of ubiquitous and mobile computing applications attracting worldwide attentions. Many location-based services rely on WiFi fingerprinting approaches to achieve a reasonable accuracy. However, there is still room for improvement due to the prevalent-existing errors (e.g., 8∼12 m). In this study, we devise and implement a high-accuracy indoor localization solution leveraging the WiFi-based method and pedestrian mobility provided by smartphones. Our basic idea is that WiFi-only localization can generate rough but absolute positions, while user motion is able to bring accurate but relative locations. Taking both sides into account simultaneously, we design techniques to refine the raw WiFi positions in the process of laying the precise local trajectory appropriately down to the absolute coordinate using a novel least median of squares (LMS) fit algorithm. We develop a prototype system, named TraIL, and conduct comprehensive experiments in a building along different shaped routes. The evaluation results show that TraIL can achieve 80% improvement on average error with respect to WiFi-only indoor localization.
Histogram of Maximal Optical Flow Projection for Abnormal Events Detection in Crowded Scenes
Authors: Li Ang , Miao Zhenjiang , Cen Yigang , Wang Tian , Voronin Viacheslav
Published: November 2015

Abnormal events detection plays an important role in the video surveillance, which is a challenging subject in the intelligent detection. In this paper, based on a novel motion feature descriptor, that is, the histogram of maximal optical flow projection (HMOFP), we propose an algorithm to detect abnormal events in crowded scenes. Following the extraction of the HMOFP of the training frames, the one-class support vector machine (SVM) classification method is utilized to detect the abnormality of the testing frames. Compared with other methods based on the optical flow, experiments on several benchmark datasets show that our algorithm is effective with satisfying results.
Bus Travel Time Deviation Analysis Using Automatic Vehicle Location Data and Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Gong Xiaolin , Guo Xiucheng , Dou Xueping , Lu Lili
Published: November 2015

To investigate the influences of causes of unreliability and bus schedule recovery phenomenon on microscopic segment-level travel time variance, this study adopts Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to specify, estimate, and measure the theoretical proposed models. The SEM model establishes and verifies hypotheses for interrelationships among travel time deviations, departure delays, segment lengths, dwell times, and number of traffic signals and access connections. The finally accepted model demonstrates excellent fitness. Most of the hypotheses are supported by the sample dataset from bus Automatic Vehicle Location system. The SEM model confirms the bus schedule recovery phenomenon. The departure delays at bus terminals and upstream travel time deviations indeed have negative impacts on travel time fluctuation of buses en route. Meanwhile, the segment length directly and negatively impacts travel time variability and inversely positively contributes to the schedule recovery process; this exogenous variable also indirectly and positively influences travel times through the existence of signalized intersections and access connections. This study offers a rational approach to analyzing travel time deviation feature. The SEM model structure and estimation results facilitate the understanding of bus service performance characteristics and provide several implications for bus service planning, management, and operation.
Design and Implementation of Recursive Model Predictive Control for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Drives
Authors: Wu Xuan , Wang Hui , Yuan Xiaofang , Huang Shoudao , Luo Derong
Published: November 2015

In order to control the permanent-magnet synchronous motor system (PMSM) with different disturbances and nonlinearity, an improved current control algorithm for the PMSM systems using recursive model predictive control (RMPC) is developed in this paper. As the conventional MPC has to be computed online, its iterative computational procedure needs long computing time. To enhance computational speed, a recursive method based on recursive Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm (RLMA) and iterative learning control (ILC) is introduced to solve the learning issue in MPC. RMPC is able to significantly decrease the computation cost of traditional MPC in the PMSM system. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm has been verified by simulation and experimental results.
TOC: Lightweight Event Tracing Using Online Compression for Networked Embedded Systems
Authors: Cao Chenhong , Liu Wen , Dong Wei , Bu Jiajun
Published: November 2015

Many trace-based diagnostic techniques have been proposed for abnormal detection and fault diagnosis in networked embedded systems such as wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Event tracing is a nontrivial task for resource-constrained embedded devices. Existing tracing approaches employ compression algorithms to reduce the trace size. However, these approaches either are inapplicable or perform poorly. In this paper, we propose TOC, a novel event tracing technique using online compression. TOC combines periodical pattern mining and efficient token assignment, effectively reducing the trace size with acceptable execution overhead. We implement TOC based on TinyOS 2.1.2 and evaluate its effectiveness by case studies in sensor network applications. Results show that TOC reduces the trace size by 52.2%, compared with LIS—a state-of-the-art event tracing method.
Precise Relative Positioning of Vehicles with On-the-Fly Carrier Phase Resolution and Tracking
Authors: de Ponte Müller Fabian , Navarro Tapia Diego , Kranz Matthias
Published: November 2015

Forward collision warning systems, lane change assistants, and cooperative adaptive cruise control are examples of safety relevant applications that rely on accurate relative positioning between vehicles. Current solutions estimate the position of an in-front driving vehicle by measuring the distance with a radar sensor, a laser scanner, or a camera system. The perception range of these sensors can be extended by the exchange of GNSS information between the vehicles using an intervehicle communication link. One possibility is to transmit GNSS pseudorange and carrier phase measurements and compute a highly accurate baseline vector that represents the relative position between two vehicles. Solving for the unknown integer ambiguity is specially challenging for low-cost single-frequency receivers. Using the well-known LAMBDA (Least-squares AMBiguity Decorrelation Adjustment) algorithm, in this paper, we present a method for tracking the ambiguity vector solution, which is able to detect and recover from cycle slips and cope with changing satellite constellations. In several test runs performed in real-world open-sky environments with two vehicles, the performance of the proposed Ambiguity Tracker approach is evaluated. The experiments revealed that it is in fact possible to track the position of another vehicle with subcentimeter accuracy over longer periods of time with low-cost single-frequency receivers.
Electrochemical Characterization and Determination of Phenol and Chlorophenols by Voltammetry at Single Wall Carbon Nanotube/Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) Modified Screen Printed Carbon Electrode
Authors: Negash Negussie , Alemu Hailemichael , Tessema Merid
Published: November 2015

Screen printed carbon electrode (SPCE) has been modified with single wall carbon nanotube/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (SWCNT/PEDOT) composites for the determination of phenol and chlorophenols (phenol, 4-chlorophenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol, and 2,4,6-trichlorophenol). The effect of the modifiers on the electrode characteristics was evaluated and the responses were optimized for the voltammetric determination of phenol and chlorophenols. The parameters affecting the responses such as pH, scan rate, and stability were studied. The analytical performance of the SWCNT/PEDOT/SPCE using cyclic voltammetry was tested and found to be impressive. Under these conditions, the designed electrode showed a good performance for the voltammetric measurements of the phenolic compounds. The modified SPCE, when it is compared with other enzymatic and nonenzymatic sensors, showed a wider dynamic range for the detection of the phenolic compounds. The modified SPCE was used for the quantification of phenol in water samples. The results suggest that the method is quite useful for analyzing and monitoring phenols and chlorophenols.
An All-Time-Domain Moving Object Data Model, Location Updating Strategy, and Position Estimation
Authors: Wu Qunyong , Huang Junyi , Luo Jianping , Yang Jianjun
Published: November 2015

To solve the problems from the existing moving objects data models, such as modeling spatiotemporal object continuous action, multidimensional representation, and querying sophisticated spatiotemporal position, we firstly established an object-oriented all-time-domain data model for moving objects. The model added dynamic attributes into object-oriented model, which supported all-time-domain data storage and query. Secondly, we proposed a new dynamic threshold location updating strategy. The location updating threshold was given dynamically in accordance with the velocity, accuracy, and azimuth positioning information from the GPS. Thirdly, we presented several different position estimation methods to estimate the historical location and future location. The cubic Hermite interpolation function is used to estimate the historical location. Linear extended positioning method, velocity mean value positioning method, and cubic exponential smoothing positioning method were designed to estimate the future location. We further implemented the model by abstracting the data types of moving object, which was established by PL∖SQL and extended Oracle Spatial. Furthermore, the model was tested through the different moving objects. The experimental results illustrate that the location updating frequency can be effectively reduced, and thus the position information transmission flow and the data storage were reduced without affecting the moving objects trajectory precision.
The Combination of Resveratrol and Quercetin Attenuates Metabolic Syndrome in Rats by Modifying the Serum Fatty Acid Composition and by Upregulating SIRT 1 and SIRT 2 Expression in White Adipose Tissue
Authors: Peredo-Escárcega Ana Elena , Guarner-Lans Verónica , Pérez-Torres Israel , Ortega-Ocampo Sergio , Carreón-Torres Elizabeth , Castrejón-Tellez Vicente , Díaz-Díaz Eulises , Rubio-Ruiz María Esther
Published: November 2015

Resveratrol (RSV) and quercetin (QRC) modify energy metabolism and reduce cardiovascular risk factors included in the metabolic syndrome (MetS). These natural compounds upregulate and activate sirtuins (SIRTs), a family of NAD-dependent histone deacetylases. We analyzed the effect of two doses of a commercial combination of RSV and QRC on serum fatty acid composition and their regulation of SIRTs 1–3 and PPAR-γexpression in white adipose tissue. MetS was induced in Wistar rats by adding 30% sucrose to drinking water for five months. Rats were divided into control and two groups receiving the two different doses of RSV and QRC in drinking water daily for 4 weeks following the 5 months of sucrose treatment. Commercial kits were used to determine serum parameters and the expressions of SIRTs in WAT were analysed by western blot. In MetS rats body mass, central adiposity, insulin, triglycerides, non-HDL-C, leptin, adiponectin, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) were increased, while polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and HDL-C were decreased. SIRT 1 and SIRT 2 were downregulated, while PPAR-γwas increased. RSV + QRC administration improved the serum health parameters modified by MetS and upregulate SIRT 1 and SIRT 2 expression in white abdominal tissue in MetS animals.
High Throughput Receiver Structure for Underwater Communication
Authors: Baek Chang-Uk , Jung Ji-Won
Published: November 2015

Acoustic channels are characterized by long multipath spreads that cause intersymbol interference. The way in which this fact influences the design of the receiver structure is considered in this paper. To satisfy performance and throughput requirements, we propose a consecutive iterative BCJR equalization scheme. To achieve a low error performance, we resort to the powerful BCJR equalization algorithms to iteratively update probabilistic information between inner decoder and outer decoder. Also, to achieve a high throughput, we divide a long packet into a group of small consecutive packets, estimate channel information of the current packets, and use it to decode the next packets. Based on an experimental channel response, we confirm that the performance is indeed improved for long packet size.
Morphine versus Hydromorphone: Does Choice of Opioid Influence Outcomes?
Authors: Gulur Padma , Koury Katharine , Arnstein Paul , Lee Hang , McCarthy Patricia , Coley Christopher , Mort Elizabeth
Published: November 2015

Morphine has traditionally been considered the first line agent for analgesia in hospitals; however, in the last few years there has been a shift towards the use of hydromorphone as a first line agent. We conducted a hospital population based observational study to evaluate the increasing use of hydromorphone over morphine in both medical and surgical populations. Additionally, we assessed the effect of this trend on three key outcomes, including adverse events, length of stay, and readmission rates. We evaluated data from the University Health Systems Consortium. Data from 38 hospitals from October 2010 to September 2013 was analyzed for patients treated with either hydromorphone or morphine. The use of morphine steadily decreased while use of hydromorphone increased in both medical and surgical groups. Rescue drugs were used more frequently in patients treated with hydromorphone in comparison to patients treated with morphine (p<0.01). Patients receiving morphine tended to stay in the hospital for almost one day longer than patients receiving hydromorphone. However, 30-day all cause readmission rates were significantly higher in patients treated with hydromorphone (p<0.01). Our study highlights that the choice of hydromorphone versus morphine may influence outcomes. There are implications related to resource utilization and these outcomes.
Preparation and Bioactivity Properties of a Novel Composite Membrane of Fructose Mediatedβ-Tricalcium Pyrophosphate/(Polyethylene Glycol/Chitosan) for Guided Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Wang Jian-Wen , Hon Min-Hsiung , Kuo Yi-Ming , Chung Mei-Hui
Published: November 2015

A novel composite membrane ofβ-tricalcium pyrophosphate (β-TCP) and fructose- (F-) mediated chitosan/poly(ethylene glycol) (CS/PEG) was prepared by thermally induced phase separation technique. The prepared composite membranes were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The mechanical property, swelling, degradation, and cytotoxicity of the composite membranes were evaluated in vitro with respect to its potential for use as biodegradable guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membrane. In vitro degradation tests showed the composite membrane with a controllable degradation rate when changing theβ-TCP content. The incorporation ofβ-TCP granules also caused a significant enhancement of tensile strength. Whenβ-TCP content is controlled to 50 wt%, homogeneous composite membranes with well mechanical property and enzymatic degradation rate can be obtained. Cytotoxicity assay demonstrates that the composite membranes were nontoxic and had very good cell compatibility. Most importantly, the release of calcium ions and glucosamine from the composite membranes was proved to increase the cell proliferation of NIH3T3. The results of this study have indicated that this novel F-β-TCP/CS/PEG composite can be a suitable material for GTR applications.
Coevolution between Cancer Activities and Food Structure of Human Being from Southwest China
Authors: Zeng Yawen , Du Juan , Pu Xiaoying , Yang Jiazhen , Yang Tao , Yang Shuming , Yang Xiaomeng
Published: November 2015

Yunnan and Tibet are the lowest cancer mortality and the largest producer for anticancer crops (brown rice, barley, buckwheat, tea, walnut, mushrooms, and so forth). Shanghai and Jiangsu province in China have the highest mortality of cancers, which are associated with the sharp decline of barley.
Transparent Conductive Films of Copper Nanofiber Network Fabricated by Electrospinning
Authors: Kim Sungyeoul , Lee Hyundong , Kim Dahye , Ko DaAe , Kim Dojin , Kim Hyojin , Yoon Soon-Gil
Published: November 2015

Cu nanofiber networks can be a good alternative of the Ag nanowire of high electrical conductivity while having the advantage of low price. An electrospinning method was developed to fabricate copper nanofiber network for use as a transparent conductive film on glass substrate. The effects of liquid diluents for electrospinning processability were examined in relation to the subsequent Cu nanofiber formation processes. Electrospinning solutions of copper acetate/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and copper nitrate trihydrate/polyvinyl butyral (PVB) were investigated. The polymer mixing solutions influenced the subsequent annealing temperatures for removal of the polymers and reduction of the formed CuO nanofibers to Cu metal nanofibers. The morphology and structures of the formed nanofiber networks were examined by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and so forth. The mixture with PVB provided lower annealing temperatures suitable for application to flexible substrates.
Wireless Localization Based on RSSI Fingerprint Feature Vector
Authors: Zhang Aiguo , Yuan Ying , Wu Qunyong , Zhu Shunzhi , Deng Jian
Published: November 2015

RSSI wireless signal is a reference information that is widely used in indoor positioning. However, due to the wireless multipath influence, the value of the received RSSI will have large fluctuations and cause large distance error when RSSI is fitted to distance. But experimental data showed that, being affected by the combined factors of the environment, the received RSSI feature vector which is formed by lots of RSSI values from different APs is a certain stability. Therefore, the paper proposed RSSI-based fingerprint feature vector algorithm which divides location area into grids, and mobile devices are localized through the similarity matching between the real-time RSSI feature vector and RSSI fingerprint database feature vectors. Test shows that the algorithm can achieve positioning accuracy up to 2–4 meters in a typical indoor environment.
Type VI Aplasia Cutis Congenita: Bart’s Syndrome
Authors: Kulalı Ferit , Bas Ahmet Yagmur , Kale Yusuf , Celik Istemi Han , Demirel Nihal , Apaydın Sema
Published: November 2015

Bart’s syndrome is characterized by aplasia cutis congenita and epidermolysis bullosa. We present the case of a newborn male who developed blisters on the mucous membranes and the skin following congenital localized absence of skin. Bart’s syndrome (BS) is diagnosed clinically based on the disorder’s unique signs and symptoms but histologic evaluation of the skin can help to confirm the final diagnosis. The patient was managed conservatively with topical antibacterial ointment and wet gauze dressing. Periodic follow-up examinations showed complete healing. We emphasized that it is important to use relatively simple methods for optimal healing without the need for complex surgical interventions.
Machinery Fault Diagnosis Using Two-Channel Analysis Method Based on Fictitious System Frequency Response Function
Authors: Shin Kihong , Lee Sang-Heon
Published: November 2015

Most existing techniques for machinery health monitoring that utilize measured vibration signals usually require measurement points to be as close as possible to the expected fault components of interest. This is particularly important for implementing condition-based maintenance since the incipient fault signal power may be too small to be detected if a sensor is located further away from the fault source. However, a measurement sensor is often not attached to the ideal point due to geometric or environmental restrictions. In such a case, many of the conventional diagnostic techniques may not be successfully applicable. In this paper, a two-channel analysis method is proposed to overcome such difficulty. It uses two vibration signals simultaneously measured at arbitrary points in a machine. The proposed method is described theoretically by introducing a fictitious system frequency response function. It is then verified experimentally for bearing fault detection. The results show that the suggested method may be a good alternative when ideal points for measurement sensors are not readily available.
On an Identification Problem on the Determination of the Parameters of the Dynamic System
Authors: Baigereyev Dossan , Ismailov Nevazi , Gasimov Yusif , Namazov Atif
Published: November 2015

An inverse problem is considered for the determination of the parameters, involved in the right-hand side of the system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations by given initial and final conditions. The solution of the problem is reduced to the minimization of the quadratic functional, which indeed is a deviation of the value of the solution from the given values at the end points. Using the quasilinearization method a calculation method is proposed to the solution of the considered problem. The application of this method is demonstrated on the example of the determination of the hydraulic resistance in the tubes.
Human Papillomavirus Infection, Infertility, and Assisted Reproductive Outcomes
Authors: Pereira Nigel , Kucharczyk Katherine M. , Estes Jaclyn L. , Gerber Rachel S. , Lekovich Jovana P. , Elias Rony T. , Spandorfer Steven D.
Published: November 2015

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection common among men and women across all geographic and socioeconomic subgroups worldwide. Recent evidence suggests that HPV infection may affect fertility and alter the efficacy of assisted reproductive technologies. In men, HPV infection can affect sperm parameters, specifically motility. HPV-infected sperm can transmit viral DNA to oocytes, which may be expressed in the developing blastocyst. HPV can increase trophoblastic apoptosis and reduce the endometrial implantation of trophoblastic cells, thus increasing the theoretical risk of miscarriage. Vertical transmission of HPV during pregnancy may be involved in the pathophysiology of preterm rupture of membranes and spontaneous preterm birth. In patients undergoing intrauterine insemination for idiopathic infertility, HPV infection confers a lower pregnancy rate. In contrast, the evidence regarding any detrimental impact of HPV infection on IVF outcomes is inconclusive. It has been suggested that vaccination could potentially counter HPV-related sperm impairment, trophoblastic apoptosis, and spontaneous miscarriages; however, these conclusions are based on in vitro studies rather than large-scale epidemiological studies. Improvement in the understanding of HPV sperm infection mechanisms and HPV transmission into the oocyte and developing blastocyst may help explain idiopathic causes of infertility and miscarriage.
Investigating the Degradability of HDPE, LDPE, PE-BIO, and PE-OXO Films under UV-B Radiation
Authors: Martínez-Romo A. , González-Mota R. , Soto-Bernal J. J. , Rosales-Candelas I.
Published: November 2015

The changes in structural properties of high density polyethylene films (HDPE), low density polyethylene films (LDPE), biodegradable polyethylene (PE-BIO), and oxodegradable polyethylene (PE-OXO) films exposed to UV-B radiation were studied. The carbonyl(ICO)and vinyl(IV)index, the crystalline phase fraction, and the dichroic ratio were used to evaluate the photooxidation of these polymers. The results obtained show that LDPE and HDPE undergo a major degree of oxidation and an increase in the crystalline phase fraction comparing to PE-BIO and PE-OXO. If the LDPE and HDPE are pretreated by an accurate radiation UV-B dosage before its different commercial uses or in its final disposition, they can become an option for biodegradable material without the necessity of adding organic agents or photosensitizers.
Prognostic Significance of the Tumor-Stroma Ratio in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Chen Ying , Zhang Lei , Liu Wenxin , Liu Xiangyu
Published: November 2015

Tumor-stroma ratio (TSR) has recently been identified as a promising prognostic parameter for several solid tumors. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic role of TSR in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and 838 EOC patients were enrolled in this study. TSR was estimated on hematoxylin-and-eosin-stained tissue sections from the most invasive part of the primary tumor. Patients were classified as stroma-rich or stroma-poor according to the proportion of stroma ≥50% or <50%. Chi-square test analysis revealed that TSR were significantly associated with FIGO stage, LN status, and recurrence or not (all of themP<0.001). The higher stroma-rich proportions were found in EOC patients with advanced stage (36.13% versus 19.75%), LN metastasis (51.93% versus 27.25%), and recurrence (34.27% versus 6.82%). Stroma-rich EOC patients had obvious shorter median time of progression-free survival (29 versus 39 months) and overall survival (50 versus 58 months), respectively. TSR was an independent prognostic factor for the evaluation of PFS in EOC. Stroma-rich tumors had worse prognosis and higher risk of relapse compared with those in stroma-poor tumors in EOC patients. Considered easy to determine for routine pathological examination, TSR may serve as a new prognostic histological parameter in EOC.
Effects of Noise and Absorption on High Frequency Measurements of Acoustic-Backscatter from Fish
Authors: Furusawa Masahiko
Published: November 2015

Quantitative echosounders operating at multiple frequencies (e.g., 18, 38, 70, 120, 200, 333, and 710 kHz) are often used to observe fish and zooplankton and identify their species. At frequencies above 100 kHz, the absorption attenuation increases rapidly and decreases the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Also, incomplete compensation for the attenuation may result in measurement error. This paper addresses the effects of the attenuation and noise on high frequency measurements of acoustic backscatter from fish. It is shown that measurements of a fish with target strength of −40 dB at 200 m depth are limited by SNR to frequencies up to about 100 kHz. Above 100 kHz, absorption coefficients must be matched to local environmental conditions.
AuthenticPeer: A Reputation Management System for Peer-to-Peer Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Kurdi Heba , Alnasser Sarah , Alhelal Munira
Published: November 2015

Reputation and trust are dominant challenges in peer-to-peer (P2P) networks in general and peer-to-peer sensor network (P2PWSN) in particular. Numerous efforts have been devoted to developing reputation management systems that can alleviate the difficulties in finding trustworthy communication partners in P2P networks. There are two main approaches in this field: peer-based reputation systems and message-based reputation systems, each of which has its own advantages and limitations. In this paper, we propose a new reputation system for P2PWSN, AuthenticPeer, which utilizes techniques from both approaches in a way that maximizes their advantages and overcomes their limitations. The proposed system has been tested thoroughly in various simulated P2PWSN environments under various number of files and common threat models. Experimental results illustrate enhanced performance of AuthenticPeer reputation system when compared to two P2P reputation systems, EigenTrust and Incremental EigenTrust, in terms of success rate of good users and fraction of inauthentic downloads, specifically with the threat models: individual malicious, malicious collective, camouflaged collective, and malicious spies, regardless of the number of files in the networks.
Separation of Berberine Hydrochloride and Tetrahydropalmatine and Their Quantitative Analysis with Thin Layer Chromatography Involved with Ionic Liquids
Authors: Lu Jing , Ma Hong-yan , Zhang Wei , Ma Zhi-guo , Yao Shun
Published: November 2015

[BMIM]OH was used in mobile and stationary phase of thin layer chromatography (TLC) to analyze berberine hydrochloride and tetrahydropalmatine for the first time. Supported imidazole ionic liquid with hydroxide ion on silica gel (SiO2·Im+·OH−) was synthesized through simple procedure and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), elemental analysis, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Moreover, on the plates prepared by SiO2·Im+·OH−, the contents of the above alkaloids in the Chinese patent medicine (CPM) of “Stomacheasy” capsule were successfully determined by TLC scanner. The key conditions and chromatographic behaviors were also investigated in detail. According to similar ways, ionic liquids (ILs) also can be used in other planar chromatographies in two modes. This study is expected to be helpful in expanding the application of IL and its bonded silica gel in TLC separation field.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Biomarker for Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wu Yan , Kwon Young Suk , Labib Mina , Foran David J. , Singer Eric A.
Published: November 2015

As the most common neoplasm arising from the kidney, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) continues to have a significant impact on global health. Conventional cross-sectional imaging has always served an important role in the staging of RCC. However, with recent advances in imaging techniques and postprocessing analysis, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) now has the capability to function as a diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic biomarker for RCC. For this narrative literature review, a PubMed search was conducted to collect the most relevant and impactful studies from our perspectives as urologic oncologists, radiologists, and computational imaging specialists. We seek to cover advanced MR imaging and image analysis techniques that may improve the management of patients with small renal mass or metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
Mesenteric-Portal Vein Resection during Pancreatectomy for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Beltrame Valentina , Gruppo Mario , Pedrazzoli Sergio , Merigliano Stefano , Pastorelli Davide , Sperti Cosimo
Published: November 2015

The aim of the present study was to determine the outcome of patients undergoing pancreatic resection with (VR+) or without (VR−) mesenteric-portal vein resection for pancreatic carcinoma. Between January 1998 and December 2012, 241 patients with pancreatic cancer underwent pancreatic resection: in 64 patients, surgery included venous resection for macroscopic invasion of mesenteric-portal vein axis. Morbidity and mortality did not differ between the two groups (VR+: 29% and 3%; VR−: 30% and 4.0%, resp.). Radical resection was achieved in 55/64 (78%) in the VR+ group and in 126/177 (71%) in the VR− group. Vascular invasion was histologically proven in 44 (69%) of the VR+ group. Survival curves were not statistically different between the two groups. Mean and median survival time were 26 and 15 months, respectively, in VR− versus 20 and 14 months, respectively, in VR+ groupp=0.52. In the VR+ group, only histologically proven vascular invasion significantly impacted survivalp=0.02, while, in the VR− group, R0 resectionp=0.001and tumor’s gradingp=0.01significantly influenced long-term survival. Vascular resection during pancreatectomy can be performed safely, with acceptable morbidity and mortality. Long-term survival was the same, with or without venous resection. Survival was worse for patients with histologically confirmed vascular infiltration.
A Credible Bayesian-Based Trust Management Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Feng Renjian , Han Xiaona , Liu Qiang , Yu Ning
Published: November 2015

With the rapid development of wireless sensor networks (WSNs), the security of WSNs is an important issue in this field because of their vulnerabilities to attacks. Designing a reasonable trust management scheme that can evaluate the trust relationships among sensor nodes accurately is a challenging but meaningful task. In this paper, a credible Bayesian-based trust management scheme (BTMS) is proposed. The overall trust value is aggregated by both direct and indirect trust information. The former is calculated by a modified Bayesian equation and updated by a sliding window. The latter is computed by recommendations from a third party. Moreover, the indirect trust computation is invoked conditionally according to the uncertainty of direct trust calculated via Entropy Theory and malicious feedbacks are excluded. Meanwhile, different recommendations are appropriately weighted in light of the trust levels of recommenders. Simulations are conducted and the results show that, compared with existing approaches, the proposed trust model performs better in defeating attacks.
RI-MDS: Multidimensional Scaling Iterative Localization Algorithm Using RSSI in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Miao Chun-yu , Dai Guo-yong , Mao Ke-ji , Li Yi-dong , Chen Qing-zhang
Published: November 2015

To improve the feasibility and the convenience of localization methods for wireless sensor networks, a localization algorithm RI-MDS (RSSI-based iterative-multidimensional scaling) is proposed. The RI-MDS method is centralized and mainly focuses on improving localization accuracy. It collects RSSI vectors as ranging basis and combines the metric MDS method and the nonmetric MDS method to accomplish the relative localization. Then it uses the maximum likelihood method in affine transformation to transform the relative coordinates to absolute ones. Our method has no need for additional equipment on the WSN nodes. Simulation and field experiments show that the average localization error and the localization error ratio of the RI-MDS method are relatively lower and thus they are more feasible.
Endogenous Ouabain: An Old Cardiotonic Steroid as a New Biomarker of Heart Failure and a Predictor of Mortality after Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Simonini Marco , Pozzoli Simona , Bignami Elena , Casamassima Nunzia , Messaggio Elisabetta , Lanzani Chiara , Frati Elena , Botticelli Irene Maria , Rotatori Francesco , Alfieri Ottavio , Zangrillo Alberto , Manunta Paolo
Published: November 2015

Cardiovascular diseases remain the main cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide; primary prevention is a priority for physicians. Biomarkers are useful tools able to identify high-risk individuals, guide treatments, and determine prognosis. Our aim is to investigate Endogenous Ouabain (EO), an adrenal stress hormone with hemodynamic effects, as a valuable biomarker of heart failure. In a population of 845 patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery, we have investigated the relationships between EO and echocardiography parameters/plasmatic biomarker of cardiac function. EO was found to be correlated negatively with left ventricular EF (p=0.001), positively with Cardiac End-Diastolic Diameter (p=0.047), and positively with plasmatic NT-proBNP level (p=0.02). Moreover, a different plasmatic EO level (both preoperative and postoperative) was found according to NYHA class (p=0.013). All these results have been replicated on an independent cohort of patients (147 subjects from US). Finally, a higher EO level in the immediate postoperative time was indicative of a more severe cardiological condition and it was associated with increased perioperative mortality risk (p=0.023for 30-day morality). Our data suggest that preoperative and postoperative plasmatic EO level identifies patients with a more severe cardiovascular presentation at baseline. These patients have a higher risk of morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery.
Multifrequency Phase Difference of Arrival Range Measurement: Principle, Implementation, and Evaluation
Authors: Qiu Lanxin , Huang Zhangqin , Zhang Shaohua , Jing Cheng , Li Hao , Li Shuyao
Published: November 2015

Real-time location system (RLS) based on RFID is an effective indoor positioning system. The battery-free and low cost UHF passive tags can be attached on almost any objects, which are recognized as the best medium to achieve high precision ranging and positioning for large-scale objects. This paper proposes an indoor range measurement based on multifrequency phase difference of arrival (MF-PDoA) using UHF RFID passive tags and discusses the measurement principle, experiment implementation, and results evaluation in detail. After a theoretical overview of MF-PDoA range measurement principle, it introduces an experimental prototype under EPC C1G2 standard for range measurements. Both our prototype and a commercial off-the-shelf RFID reader have been used to verify the measurement method. We propose a Kalman filter and weighting method to process the measuring data. Experiment results indicate that, in a real environment, this method can effectively improve the ranging accuracy, which lays a foundation to extend the proposed measurement into two to three dimensions indoor object positioning.