bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of High-Voltage Switch-Mode Power Amplifier Based on Digital-Controlled Hybrid Multilevel Converter
Authors: Hou Yanbin , Sun Wanrong , Ren Aifeng , Liu Shuming
Published: September 2016

Compared with conventional Class-A, Class-B, and Class-AB amplifiers, Class-D amplifier, also known as switching amplifier, employs pulse width modulation (PWM) technology and solid-state switching devices, capable of achieving much higher efficiency. However, PWM-based switching amplifier is usually designed for low-voltage application, offering a maximum output voltage of several hundred Volts. Therefore, a step-up transformer is indispensably adopted in PWM-based Class-D amplifier to produce high-voltage output. In this paper, a switching amplifier without step-up transformer is developed based on digital pulse step modulation (PSM) and hybrid multilevel converter. Under the control of input signal, cascaded power converters with separate DC sources operate in PSM switch mode to directly generate high-voltage and high-power output. The relevant topological structure, operating principle, and design scheme are introduced. Finally, a prototype system is built, which can provide power up to 1400 Watts and peak voltage up to ±1700 Volts. And the performance, including efficiency, linearity, and distortion, is evaluated by experimental tests.
Reversal of Early Diabetic Nephropathy by Islet Transplantation under the Kidney Capsule in a Rat Model
Authors: He Yunqiang , Xu Ziqiang , Zhou Mingshi , Wu Minmin , Chen Xuehai , Wang Silu , Qiu Kaiyan , Cai Yong , Fu Hongxing , Chen Bicheng , Zhou Mengtao
Published: September 2016

Objective. Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, and insulin therapy has many side effects in the treatment of DN. Islet transplantation has emerged as a promising therapy for diabetic patients. This study was established to investigate its advantageous effects in a rat model of early DN.Methods. Streptozotocin was administered to the rats to induce diabetes. Twelve weeks later, the diabetic rats were divided into 3 groups: the islet-transplanted group (IT group), the insulin-treated group (IN group), and the untreated group (DN group). Renal injury and kidney structure were assessed by urinalysis and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) detection. Immunohistochemical staining and western blotting were performed to assess renal fibrosis levels.Results. The early DN features were reversed and the glomerular filtration barrier and basement membrane structures were improved at 4 weeks after islet transplantation. The urine microalbumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR), protein-to-creatinine ratio, and mean thickness of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) were significantly decreased in the IT group. The expression of renal fibrotic factors was also significantly decreased.Conclusions. These data suggest that early DN can be reversed after islet transplantation, and they may facilitate the development of a clinical therapeutic strategy for human diabetes mellitus.
Terpenes: Natural Products for Controlling Insects of Importance to Human Health—A Structure-Activity Relationship Study
Authors: Dambolena José S. , Zunino María P. , Herrera Jimena M. , Pizzolitto Romina P. , Areco Vanessa A. , Zygadlo Julio A.
Published: September 2016

Many insects affect food production and human health, and in an attempt to control these insects the use of synthetic insecticides has become widespread. However, this has resulted in the development of resistance in these organisms, human diseases, contamination of food, and pollution of the environment. Plants natural products and essential oil components such as terpenes and phenylpropenes have been shown to have a significant potential for insect control. However, the molecular properties related to their insecticidal activity are not well understood. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the toxicity of terpene compounds against three insects of importance to human health: lice, cockroaches, and Triatominae bugs and to evaluate which molecular descriptors are important in the bioactivity of terpenes. For the insects studied, quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) studies were performed in order to predict the insecticidal activity of terpene compounds. The obtained QSAR models indicated that the activity of these compounds depends on their ability to reach the targets and to interact with them. The QSAR analysis can be used to predict the bioactivities of other structurally related molecules. Our findings may provide an important contribution in the search for new compounds with insecticidal activity.
Research on the Selection Strategy of Green Building Parts Supplier Based on the Catastrophe Theory and Kent Index Method
Authors: Luo Zhenhua , He Jian , Pan Haize , Yang Yiluan
Published: September 2016

At present, the green building and housing industrialization are two mainstream directions in the real estate industry. The production of green building parts which combines green building and housing industrialization, two concepts, is to be vigorously developed. The key of quality assurance in the assembly project is choosing reliable and proper green building parts suppliers. This paper analyzes the inherent requirements of the green building, combined with the characteristics of the housing industrialization, and puts forward an evaluation index system of supplier selection for green building parts, which includes product index, enterprise index, green development index, and cooperation ability index. To reduce the influence of subjective factors, the improved method which merges Kent index method and catastrophe theory is applied to the green building parts supplier selection and evaluation. This paper takes the selection of the unit bathroom suppliers as an example, uses the improved model to calculate and analyze the data of each supplier, and finally selects the optimal supplier. With combination of the Kent index and the catastrophe theory, the result shows that it can effectively reduce the subjectivity of the evaluation and provide a basis for the selection of the green building parts suppliers.
Flexible Fiber Optic Carbon-Dioxide Laser Assisted Stapedotomy in Otosclerosis
Authors: Yetiser Sertac
Published: September 2016

Objective. The aim of this study is to analyze the hearing and vestibular outcome of patients with otosclerosis who have been operated on by fiber optic flexible CO2laser.Study Design. A preliminary and retrospective study was conducted in 30 patients with otosclerosis.Results. Comparative analysis of average air conduction thresholds (53.41±11.81 dB versus26.37±11.04 dB) and air-bone gaps (34±9.92 dB versus12.03±6.02 dB) before and after the surgery were statistically significant (<0.001). Air-bone gap closed within 10 dB or less in 50% of the cases and within 20 dB or less in 90% of the cases. Average bone conduction threshold after the surgery (16.68±12.00 dB) was better than that before the surgery (20.13±8.59). However, no statistically significant difference was found (p=0.213). One patient had tinnitus after surgery. None of the patients had severe sickness or vomiting due to surgery. Eleven patients (36.6%) had very mild nystagmus beating toward the counter-lateral side. All patients were stable at 10 days after surgery.Conclusion. The results indicate that fiber optic flexible CO2laser provides the surgeon with a very safe and precise surgical instrumentation even in cases with extensive and obliterative otosclerosis.
Modeling Random Forwarding Actions for Information Diffusion over Mobile Social Networks
Authors: Li Ling , Liu Min , Shen Weiming , Cheng Guoqing
Published: September 2016

Modeling information diffusion over social networks has attracted a lot of attention from both academia and industry. Based on universal generating function method and discrete stress-strength interference theory, a novel method is proposed to model the users’ random forwarding actions, and the most susceptible users are extracted. The effect of a user on information diffusion is quantified as node susceptibility (NS), and NS is defined as the probability that quantity of information (message) the user forwards is larger than that he receives. The model can address three questions: which users are most susceptible, which types of information they are most susceptible to, and when they are most susceptible. The solutions of these questions are very helpful for the practitioners. A case study is used to illustrate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed model.
Rolling Bearing Fault Diagnostic Method Based on VMD-AR Model and Random Forest Classifier
Authors: Han Te , Jiang Dongxiang
Published: September 2016

Targeting the nonstationary and non-Gaussian characteristics of vibration signal from fault rolling bearing, this paper proposes a fault feature extraction method based on variational mode decomposition (VMD) and autoregressive (AR) model parameters. Firstly, VMD is applied to decompose vibration signals and a series of stationary component signals can be obtained. Secondly, AR model is established for each component mode. Thirdly, the parameters and remnant of AR model served as fault characteristic vectors. Finally, a novel random forest (RF) classifier is put forward for pattern recognition in the field of rolling bearing fault diagnosis. The validity and superiority of proposed method are verified by an experimental dataset. Analysis results show that this method based on VMD-AR model can extract fault features accurately and RF classifier has been proved to outperform comparative classifiers.
A Passenger Flow Risk Forecasting Algorithm for High-Speed Railway Transport Hub Based on Surveillance Sensor Networks
Authors: Xie Zhengyu , Qin Yong
Published: September 2016

Passenger flow risk forecasting is a vital task for safety management in high-speed railway transport hub. In this paper, we considered the passenger flow risk forecasting problem in high-speed railway transport hub. Based on the surveillance sensor networks, a passenger flow risk forecasting algorithm was developed based on spatial correlation. Computational results showed that the proposed forecasting approach was effective and significant for the high-speed railway transport hub.
Application of Generalized Fractional Thermoelasticity Theory with Two Relaxation Times to an Electromagnetothermoelastic Thick Plate
Authors: Abd El-Latief A. M.
Published: September 2016

The fractional mathematical model of Maxwell’s equations in an electromagnetic field and the fractional generalized thermoelastic theory associated with two relaxation times are applied to a 1D problem for a thick plate. Laplace transform is used. The solution in Laplace transform domain has been obtained using a direct method and its inversion is calculated numerically using a method based on Fourier series expansion technique. Finally, the effects of the two fractional parameters (thermo and magneto) on variable fields distributions are made. Numerical results are represented graphically.
A New Formula of Impact Stiffness in Linear Viscoelastic Model for Pounding Simulation
Authors: Xu Xiuli , Xu Xiang , Liu Weiqing , Zhou Ding
Published: September 2016

The phenomenon of earthquake-induced structural pounding was extensively studied by some researchers using different models for the impact force. The aim of this paper is to provide a new formula of impact stiffness in the linear viscoelastic contact model, based on the assumption that the maximum impact deformation from the distributed mass model should be equal to that from the equivalent lumped mass model. The correctness and accuracy of the proposed formula have been confirmed by comparing the pounding simulation using the present formula of impact stiffness with those using the existing formulae.
R-bUCRP: A Novel Reputation-Based Uneven Clustering Routing Protocol for Cognitive Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Mingchuan , Zheng Ruijuan , Li Ying , Wu Qingtao , Song Liang
Published: September 2016

Energy of nodes is an important factor that affects the performance of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), especially in the case of existing selfish nodes, which attracted many researchers’ attention recently. In this paper, we present a reputation-based uneven clustering routing protocol (R-bUCRP) considering both energy saving and reputation assessment. In the cluster establishment phase, we adopt an uneven clustering mechanism which controls the competitive scope of cluster head candidates to save the energy of WSNs. In the cluster heads election phase, the residual energy and reputation value are used as the indexes to select the optimal cluster head, where the reputation mechanism is introduced to support reputation assessment. Simulation results show that the proposed R-bUCRP can save node energy consumption, balance network energy distribution, and prolong network lifetime.
The Existence of Spanning Ended System on Claw-Free Graphs
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , Xu Meijin , Liu Yanjun
Published: September 2016

We prove that every connected claw-free graphGcontains a spanningk-ended system if and only ifcl(G)contains a spanningk-ended system, wherecl(G)denotes Ryjáček closure ofG.
Generation and Evolution of Chaos in Double-Well Duffing Oscillator under Parametrical Excitation
Authors: Zhang Ying , Yue Xiaole , Du Lin , Wang Liang , Fang Tong
Published: September 2016

The generation and evolution of chaotic motion in double-well Duffing oscillator under harmonic parametrical excitation are investigated. Firstly, the complex dynamical behaviors are studied by applying multibifurcation diagram and Poincaré sections. Secondly, by means of Melnikov’s approach, the threshold value of parameterμfor generation of chaotic behavior in Smale horseshoe sense is calculated. By the numerical simulation, it is obvious that asμexceeds this threshold value, the behavior of Duffing oscillator is still steady-state periodic but the transient motion is chaotic; until the top Lyapunov exponent turns to positive, the motion of system turns to permanent chaos. Therefore, in order to gain an insight into the evolution of chaotic behavior afterμpassing the threshold value, the transient motion, basin of attraction, and basin boundary are also investigated.
γ-Rays Irradiation Induced Structural and Morphological Changes in Copper Nanowires
Authors: Shehla H. , Thema F. T. , Ishaq A. , Ali Naveed Zafar , Javed I. , Wan D. , Maaza M.
Published: September 2016

This contribution reports on the effect ofγ-irradiations on the structural and morphological properties of copper nanowires (Cu-NWs) within theγdoses varying from 6 to 25 kGy. At 9 kGy, the Cu-NWs started welding, forming perfect X-, V-, II-, and Y-shaped molecular junctions. Further increasing theγdose up to 15 kGy caused the Cu-NWs to fuse and form larger diameter NWs. At the highest dose of 25 kGy, the nanowires converted into a continuous Cu thin film. However, X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that the structure of the Cu-NWs remained stable even after converting into a thin film. The formation of the Cuprite (Cu2O) phases was observed at higherγdose. The mechanism of forming welded networks of Cu-NWs and Cu thin films is explained via the short and high energyγ-ray wavelengths which act on Cu-Cu molecular covalent bonds isotropically.
Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Varies Widely: A Need for Further Education
Authors: Huang Vivian Wai-Mei , Chang Hsiu-Ju , Kroeker Karen Ivy , Goodman Karen Jean , Hegadoren Kathleen M. , Dieleman Levinus Albert , Fedorak Richard Neil
Published: September 2016

Background.Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects patients in their young reproductive years. Women with IBD require maintenance therapies during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, physician management of IBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well characterized.Objective.To characterize physician perceptions and management of IBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding.Methods.A cross-sectional survey of Canadian physicians who are involved in the care of women with IBD was conducted. The survey included multiple-choice and Likert scale questions about perceptions and practice patterns regarding the management of IBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding.Results.183 practicing physicians completed the questionnaire: 97/183 (53.0%) gastroenterologists; 75/183 (41.0%) general practitioners; and 11/183 (6.0%) other physicians. Almost half (87/183, 47.5%) of the physicians felt comfortable managing pregnant IBD patients. For specified IBD medications, proportions of physicians who indicated they would continue them during pregnancy were as follows: sulfasalazine, 47.4%; oral mesalamine, 67.0%; topical mesalamine, 70.3%; oral prednisone, 68.0%; topical prednisone, 78.0%; oral budesonide, 61.6%; topical budesonide, 75.0%; ciprofloxacin, 15.3%; metronidazole, 31.4%; azathioprine, 57.1%; methotrexate, 2.8%; infliximab, 55.6%; adalimumab, 78.1%. Similar proportions of physicians would continue these medications during breastfeeding. A higher proportion of gastroenterologists than nongastroenterologists indicated appropriate use of these IBD medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding.Conclusions.Physician management of IBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding varies widely. Relative to other physicians, responses of gastroenterologists more frequently reflected best practices pertaining to medications for control of IBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding. There is a need for further education regarding the management of IBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Utilization of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV Services and Associated Factors among Antenatal Care Attending Mothers in Sebeta Town, Central Ethiopia
Authors: Merga Hailu , Woldemichael Kifle , Dube Lamessa
Published: September 2016

Background. HIV transmission from mother to child continues to be the major source of HIV infection among children under the age of fifteen. Targeting pregnant women attending antenatal clinics provides a unique opportunity for implementing prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programs against HIV infection of newborn babies. This study assessed utilization of PMTCT service of HIV and associated factors among ANC attending mothers.Methods. An institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 20 to March 30, 2015, using exit interviews with 377 ANC attendees using consecutive sampling method. In-depth interviews with service provider were conducted to complement the quantitative data. Data were entered and analysed using EpiData and SPSS, respectively.Results. The prevalence of PMTCT service utilization was 86.9% in this study. Only 8.6% of respondents attended the facility for HCT. After controlling confounders using logistic regression, PMTCT service utilization was associated with age (25–34) of respondents (AOR (95% CI) = 0.46 (0.22, 0.97)), mother’s occupational status (being merchant AOR (95% CI) = 0.31 (0.12, 0.83), government employee AOR (95% CI) = 0.05 (0.01, 0.28), student AOR (95% CI) = 0.1 (0.01, 0.44), and daily laborer AOR (95% CI) = 0.13 (0.05, 0.33)), husband’s educational status (lack of formal education (AOR (95% CI) = 3.3 (1.1, 9.9))), having discussion with husband (AOR (95% CI) = 6.1 (2.6, 14.1)), partner tested (AOR (95% CI) = 8.2 (1.9, 34.46)), and being not satisfied with the service (AOR (95% CI) = 0.46 (0.2, 0.99)).Conclusions. This study revealed that utilization of HIV counseling and testing during antenatal care was high among pregnant women in Sebeta town. It highlights that focusing on improvement of quality and coverage of health services has significant effects on PMTCT service utilization. Effective use or uptake of ARV drug among HIV-positive pregnant women should be further investigated so that utilization will be enhanced.
Oxygen Defect-Mediated Magnetism in Fe-C Codoped TiO2
Authors: Zou Zhaorui , Zhou Zhongpo , Wang Haiying , Du Meng
Published: September 2016

The magnetic properties of the C doped and C-Fe codoped TiO2films fabricated by sol-gel and spin coating have been investigated combining experiments and first-principles calculations. All the samples exhibit the anatase crystal phase and the room temperature ferromagnetism. The values of the saturation magnetizations are in the order of Fe-C codoped TiO2> Fe-C codoped TiO2(annealed in O2) > C doped TiO2> C doped TiO2(annealed in O2). The calculated net moment values are in the order of Fe-C codoped TiO2> C doped TiO2with oxygen vacancies existing, in accord with the experimental results. The hybridization of Fe 3d, C 2p,and O 2p(nearest to the Fe defect) led to the spin split of Fe 3d, C 2p,and O 2pwhich contributed to the ferromagnetism.
Training-Specific Neural Plasticity in Spinal Reflexes after Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Khan Atif S. , Patrick Susan K. , Roy Francois D. , Gorassini Monica A. , Yang Jaynie F.
Published: September 2016

The neural plasticity of spinal reflexes after two contrasting forms of walking training was determined in individuals with chronic, motor-incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI). Endurance Training involved treadmill walking for as long as possible, and Precision Training involved walking precisely over obstacles and onto targets overground. Twenty participants started either Endurance or Precision Training for 2 months and then crossed over after a 2-month rest period to the other form of training for 2 months. Measures were taken before and after each phase of training and rest. The cutaneomuscular reflex (CMR) during walking was evoked in the soleus (SOL) and tibialis anterior muscles by stimulating the posterior tibial nerve at the ankle. Clonus was estimated from the EMG power in the SOL during unperturbed walking. The inhibitory component of the SOL CMR was enhanced after Endurance but not Precision Training. Clonus did not change after either form of training. Participants with lower reflex excitability tended to be better walkers (i.e., faster walking speeds) prior to training, and the reduction in clonus was significantly correlated with the improvement in walking speed and distance. Thus, reflex excitability responded in a training-specific way, with the reduction in reflex excitability related to improvements in walking function. Trial registration number isNCT01765153.
Recent Changes and Variation in Precipitation over Asia-Pacific Region in relation to Long-Term Temperature and MSLP
Authors: Akhoury Gargi , Avishek Kirti , Hazra Moushumi
Published: September 2016

The years 2014 and 2015 turned out to be quite catastrophic for the Asia-Pacific region which took a major toll on the socioeconomic stature of all the entities of the region. The agricultural sector which is one of the most contributing factors to the economy of the region has been highly sensitive to the global climatic changes. Hence this endeavor shall greatly help in an efficient prediction of monsoon cycles, thus enabling the hapless farmers to be better informed and avoid major losses of any kind. The paper focuses on the climatology of air temperature and MSLP with the variation pattern in precipitation over the Asia-Pacific region. The NCEP-NCAR reanalysis data is used for air temperature and MSLP along with high-resolution precipitation dataset for Asia-Pacific monsoon region obtained from GPCP. The temperature datasets are analyzed up to the level 500 hPa. Monte Carlo method of correlation and Bootstrapping method of confidence interval are used to analyze the relation of GPCP with MSLP and temperature at all defined levels. So, in this paper authors attempt to assess the nature and relationship of temperature and MSLP to precipitation over the Asia-Pacific region with the recent 10-year changes which are quantified in detail.
Electroacupuncture Exerts Neuroprotection through Caveolin-1 Mediated Molecular Pathway in Intracerebral Hemorrhage of Rats
Authors: Li Hui-Qin , Li Yan , Chen Zi-Xian , Zhang Xiao-Guang , Zheng Xia-wei , Yang Wen-ting , Chen Shuang , Zheng Guo-Qing
Published: September 2016

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is one of the most devastating types of stroke. Here, we aim to demonstrate that electroacupuncture on Baihui (GV20) exerts neuroprotection for acute ICH possibly via the caveolin-1/matrix metalloproteinase/blood-brain barrier permeability pathway. The model of ICH was established by using collagenase VII. Rats were randomly divided into three groups: Sham-operation group, Sham electroacupuncture group, and electroacupuncture group. Each group was further divided into 4 subgroups according to the time points of 6 h, 1 d, 3 d, and 7 d after ICH. The methods were used including examination of neurological deficit scores according to Longa’s scale, measurement of blood-brain barrier permeability through Evans Blue content,in situimmunofluorescent detection of caveolin-1 in brains, western blot analysis of caveolin-1 in brains, andin situzymography for measuring matrix metalloproteinase-2/9 activity in brains. Compared with Sham electroacupuncture group, electroacupuncture group has resulted in a significant improvement in neurological deficit scores and in a reduction in Evans Blue content, expression of caveolin-1, and activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2/9 at 6 h, 1 d, 3 d, and 7 d after ICH (P<0.05). In conclusion, the present results suggested that electroacupuncture on GV20 can improve neurological deficit scores and reduce blood-brain barrier permeability after ICH, and the mechanism possibly targets caveolin-1/matrix metalloproteinase/blood-brain barrier permeability pathway.
A Comparison of Oxycodone and Alfentanil in Intravenous Patient-Controlled Analgesia with a Time-Scheduled Decremental Infusion after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Kwon Young Suk , Jang Ji Su , Lee Na Rea , Kim Seong Su , Kim Young Ki , Hwang Byeong Mun , Kang Seong Sik , Son Hee Jeong , Lim So Young
Published: September 2016

Background. Oxycodone, a semisynthetic opioid, has been widely used for acute and chronic pain.Objectives. The aim of this study was to compare the analgesic and adverse effects of oxycodone and alfentanil on postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.Methods. This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind study. A total of 82 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly assigned to receive either oxycodone or alfentanil using intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). PCA was administered as a time-scheduled decremental continuous infusion based on lean body mass for 48 hours postoperatively. Patients were assessed for pain with a visual analogue scale (VAS), the cumulative PCA dose, adverse effects, sedation level at 1, 4, 8, 16, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively, and satisfaction during the postoperative 48 hours.Results. There were no significant differences (p<0.05) between the two groups in VAS score, cumulative PCA dose, adverse effects, sedation level at 1, 4, 8, 16, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively, and satisfaction during the postoperative 48 hours.Conclusions. Our data showed that the analgesic and adverse effects of oxycodone and alfentanil were similar. Therefore, oxycodone may be a good alternative to alfentanil for pain management using intravenous PCA after laparoscopic cholecystectomy when used at a conversion ratio of 10 : 1. This trial is registered withKCT0001962.
External Monitoring and Dynamic Behavior in Mutual Funds
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Xiaoting , Zhuang Xintian , Sheng Jiliang
Published: September 2016

This paper studies the impact of external monitoring on the behavior in mutual funds. Specifically, we investigate how and why external monitoring can alleviate contracting inefficiency caused by information asymmetry between investors and the manager. It is shown that efficiency loss emerges when investors contract with the manager just relying on her investment return history. The establishment of external monitoring that provides investors more information about the manager’s ability can improve contracting efficiency, which converges to first-best as external monitoring strengthens. These results provide strong support for tightening supervision in mutual fund industry.
Flap/Lag Stall Flutter Control of Large-Scale Wind Turbine Blade Based on Robust H2Controller
Authors: Liu Tingrui , Xu Wei
Published: September 2016

Flap/lag stall nonlinear flutter and active control of anisotropic composite wind turbine blade modeled as antisymmetric beam analysis have been investigated based on robust H2controller. The blade is modeled as single-cell thin-walled beam structure, exhibiting flap bending moment-lag transverse shear deformation, and lag bending moment-flap transverse shear deformation, with constant pitch angle set. The stall flutter control of dynamic response characteristics of composite blade incorporating nonlinear aerodynamic model is investigated based on some structural and dynamic parameters. The aeroelastic partial differential equations are reduced by Galerkin method, with the aerodynamic forces decomposed by strip theory. Robust H2optimal controller is developed to enhance the vibrational behavior and dynamic response to aerodynamic excitation under extreme wind conditions and stabilize structures that might be damaged in the absence of control. The effectiveness of the control algorithm is demonstrated in both amplitudes and frequencies by description of time responses, extended phase planes, and frequency spectrum analysis, respectively.
Delay Tolerant Networking over the Metropolitan Public Transportation
Authors: Bujari A. , Gaito S. , Maggiorini D. , Palazzi C. E. , Quadri C.
Published: September 2016

We discuss MDTN: a delay tolerant application platform built on top of the Public Transportation System (PTS) and able to provide service access while exploiting opportunistic connectivity. Our solution adopts a carrier-based approach where buses act as data collectors for user requests requiring Internet access. Simulations based on real maps and PTS routes with state-of-the-art routing protocols demonstrate that MDTN represents a viable solution for elastic nonreal-time service delivery. Nevertheless, performance indexes of the considered routing policies show that there is no golden rule for optimal performance and a tailored routing strategy is required for each specific case.
Neglected Fournier’s Gangrene Caused byAcinetobacter baumannii: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Emre Arif , Sertkaya Mehmet , Akbulut Sami , Duman Yakup , Kale Ilhami Taner
Published: September 2016

Fournier’s gangrene, rare but life threatening disease, is characterized by an acute necrotic infection of the scrotum, penis, or perineum. Fournier’s gangrene is a mixed infection caused by both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. Fournier’s gangrene caused by multidrug resistantAcinetobacter baumanniihave been reported rarely. The mainstay of treatment is prompt recognition and a combination of antibiotics with radical debridement. We describe a case of a 56-year-old male patient presenting with neglected Fournier’s gangrene caused byAcinetobacter baumannii. Many treatment modalities including broad-spectrum antibiotics, aggressive debridement, negative pressure wound therapy, diversion colostomy, and partial-thickness skin grafts were applied to save the patient’s life.
Hermitian Mindlin Plate Wavelet Finite Element Method for Load Identification
Authors: Xue Xiaofeng , Chen Xuefeng , Zhang Xingwu , Qiao Baijie , Geng Jia
Published: September 2016

A new Hermitian Mindlin plate wavelet element is proposed. The two-dimensional Hermitian cubic spline interpolation wavelet is substituted into finite element functions to construct frequency response function (FRF). It uses a system’s FRF and response spectrums to calculate load spectrums and then derives loads in the time domain via the inverse fast Fourier transform. By simulating different excitation cases, Hermitian cubic spline wavelets on the interval (HCSWI) finite elements are used to reverse load identification in the Mindlin plate. The singular value decomposition (SVD) method is adopted to solve the ill-posed inverse problem. Compared with ANSYS results, HCSWI Mindlin plate element can accurately identify the applied load. Numerical results show that the algorithm of HCSWI Mindlin plate element is effective. The accuracy of HCSWI can be verified by comparing the FRF of HCSWI and ANSYS elements with the experiment data. The experiment proves that the load identification of HCSWI Mindlin plate is effective and precise by using the FRF and response spectrums to calculate the loads.
Vision Based Displacement Detection for Stabilized UAV Control on Cloud Server
Authors: Jeong Hyeok-June , Choi Jeong Dan , Ha Young-Guk
Published: September 2016

Nowadays, image processing solution is used in many fields such as traffic information systems and illegal intrusion detection systems. Now, to assist with the control of camera-equipped devices, appropriate image processing techniques are needed for moving rather than fixed observers. For achieving this goal, an algorithm should derive the desired results quickly and accurately; thus, this paper considers two characteristics: functional performance (reliability) and temporal performance (efficiency). Reliability means how well the desired results can be achieved, and efficiency means how quickly the result can be calculated. This paper suggests an optimized real-time image algorithm based on the integration of the optical flow and Speeded-Up Robust Features (SURF) algorithms. This algorithm determines horizontal or vertical movement of the camera and then extracts its displacement. The proposed algorithm can be used to stabilize an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in situations where it is drifting due to inertia and external forces, like wind, in parallel. The proposed algorithm is efficient in achieving drift stabilization by movement detection; however, it is not appropriate for image processing in small UAVs. To solve this problem, this study proposes an image processing method that uses a high-performance computer.
Analysis on Forced Vibration of Thin-Wall Cylindrical Shell with Nonlinear Boundary Condition
Authors: Tang Qiansheng , Li Chaofeng , Wen Bangchun
Published: September 2016

Forced vibration of thin-wall cylindrical shell under nonlinear boundary condition was discussed in this paper. The nonlinear boundary was modeled as supported clearance in one end of shell and the restraint was assumed as linearly elastic in the radial direction. Based on Sanders’ shell theory, Lagrange equation was utilized to derive the nonlinear governing equations of cylindrical shell. The displacements in three directions were represented by beam functions and trigonometric functions. In the study of nonlinear dynamic responses of thin-wall cylindrical shell with supported clearance under external loads, the Newmark method is used to obtain time history, frequency spectrum plot, phase portraits, Poincare section, bifurcation diagrams, and three-dimensional spectrum plot with different parameters. The effects of external loads, supported clearance, and support stiffness on nonlinear dynamics behaviors of cylindrical shell with nonlinear boundary condition were discussed.
Review of Anisotropic Flow Correlations in Ultrarelativistic Heavy-Ion Collisions
Authors: Zhou You
Published: September 2016

Anisotropic flow phenomena are a key probe of the existence of Quark-Gluon Plasma. Several new observables associated with correlations between anisotropic flow harmonics are developed, which are expected to be sensitive to the initial fluctuations and transport properties of the created matter in heavy-ion collisions. I review recent developments of correlations of anisotropic flow harmonics. The experimental measurements, together with the comparisons to theoretical model calculations, open up new opportunities of exploring novel QCD dynamics in heavy-ion collisions.
Development and Implementation of an RFID-Based Tunnel Access Monitoring System
Authors: Kordelin Kai , Kordelin Jaana , Johansson Markku , Virkki Johanna , Ukkonen Leena , Sydänheimo Lauri
Published: September 2016

Due to safety reasons, the exact number and location of people working in an underground tunnel need to be known all the time. This work introduces the development and implementation of an RFID-based access monitoring system for the ONKALO nuclear waste storage facility. This system was taken into use in 2010 and was systematically monitored for one year. The system principle and the used equipment are presented in this paper together with the reliability evaluation results of the implemented system. According to the field use evaluation of the ready system, the reading reliability at the end of the monitoring period was 100%. In addition, even after the successful monitoring period, the system has been updated and new features for safety improvement have been created based on fire department guidelines and achieved user experience. In the future, the RFID system has been planned to be used also in the final depositing of the used nuclear fuel and buffer materials.
The Renal Arterial Resistance Index Predicts Worsening Renal Function in Chronic Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Iacoviello Massimo , Monitillo Francesco , Leone Marta , Citarelli Gaetano , Doronzo Annalisa , Antoncecchi Valeria , Puzzovivo Agata , Rizzo Caterina , Lattarulo Maria Silvia , Massari Francesco , Caldarola Pasquale , Ciccone Marco Matteo
Published: September 2016

Background/Aim: The renal arterial resistance index (RRI) is a Doppler measure, which reflects abnormalities in the renal blood flow. The aim of this study was to verify the value of RRI as a predictor of worsening renal function (WRF) in a group of chronic heart failure (CHF) outpatients. Methods: We enrolled 266 patients in stable clinical conditions and on conventional therapy. Peak systolic velocity and end diastolic velocity of a segmental renal artery were obtained by pulsed Doppler flow, and RRI was calculated. Creatinine serum levels were evaluated at baseline and at 1 year, and the changes were used to assess WRF occurrence. Results: During follow-up, 34 (13%) patients showed WRF. RRI was associated with WRF at univariate (OR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.07-1.20) as well as at a forward stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis (OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.03-1.16; p = 0.005) including the other univariate predictors. Conclusions: Quantification of arterial renal perfusion provides a new parameter that independently predicts the WRF in CHF outpatients. Its possible role in current clinical practice to better define the risk of cardiorenal syndrome progression is strengthened.
Involvement of FOXL2 and RSPO1 in Ovarian Determination, Development, and Maintenance in Mammals
Authors: Pannetier Maëlle , Chassot Anne-Amandine , Chaboissier Marie-Christine , Pailhoux Eric
Published: September 2016

In mammals, sex determination is a process through which the gonad is committed to differentiate into a testis or an ovary. This process relies on a delicate balance between genetic pathways that promote one fate and inhibit the other. Once the gonad is committed to the female pathway, ovarian differentiation begins and, depending on the species, is completed during gestation or shortly after birth. During this step, granulosa cell precursors, steroidogenic cells, and primordial germ cells start to express female-specific markers in a sex-dimorphic manner. The germ cells then arrest at prophase I of meiosis and, together with somatic cells, assemble into functional structures. This organization gives the ovary its definitive morphology and functionality during folliculogenesis. Until now, 2 main genetic cascades have been shown to be involved in female sex differentiation. The first is driven by FOXL2, a transcription factor that also plays a crucial role in folliculogenesis and ovarian fate maintenance in adults. The other operates through the WNT/CTNNB1 canonical pathway and is regulated primarily by R-spondin1. Here, we discuss the roles of FOXL2 and RSPO1/WNT/ CTNNB1 during ovarian development and homeostasis in different models, such as humans, goats, and rodents.
Vascular Features of Nail Psoriasis Using Dynamic Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Aldahan Adam S. , Chen Lucy L. , Fertig Raymond M. , Holmes Jon , Shah Vidhi V. , Mlacker Stephanie , Hsu Vincent M. , Nouri Keyvan , Tosti Antonella
Published: September 2016

Background: Nail psoriasis is a painful and disfiguring nail disease that often leads to invasive biopsies. Dermoscopy of the hyponychium can be useful in the diagnosis showing twisted coiled vessels. Structural features of nail psoriasis have been described with optical coherence tomography (OCT). Objectives: To investigate vascular features of nail psoriasis using dynamic OCT. Methods: This was an observational, prospective, controlled study in which psoriasis patients with psoriatic nail changes and healthy control patients underwent OCT imaging of the distal nail plate and proximal nail fold. Vertical and horizontal OCT images were analyzed to describe structural and vascular features and to quantify blood flow at depth. Results: Sixteen psoriatic nails and 16 control nails were included. Psoriatic nails had significantly increased blood flow in the proximal nail fold at depths of 0.72 mm (p = 0.035) and 0.76 mm (p = 0.027). Nail thickness was significantly greater in psoriatic nails compared to control nails (p = 0.0016). Compared to control nails, psoriatic nails had dilated, disorganized blood vessels superficially in the proximal nail fold. Limitations: The main limitation of our study is the relatively small sample size. Conclusions: OCT can identify structural and vascular features specific to nail psoriasis.
Sleep Duration and Quality: Impact on Lifestyle Behaviors and Cardiometabolic Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: St-Onge Marie-Pierre , Grandner Michael A. , Brown Devin , Conroy Molly B. , Jean-Louis Girardin , Coons Michael , Bhatt Deepak L.
Published: September 2016

Sleep is increasingly recognized as an important lifestyle contributor to health. However, this has not always been the case, and an increasing number of Americans choose to curtail sleep in favor of other social, leisure, or work-related activities. This has resulted in a decline in average sleep duration over time. Sleep duration, mostly short sleep, and sleep disorders have emerged as being related to adverse cardiometabolic risk, including obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. Here, we review the evidence relating sleep duration and sleep disorders to cardiometabolic risk and call for health organizations to include evidence-based sleep recommendations in their guidelines for optimal health.
Effect of Trade Liberalization on Low-Carbon Energy Technology Dissemination in Asia
Authors: Anbumozhi Venkatachalam , Kalirajan Kaliappa
Published: September 2016

The production and use of low-carbon energy technology and services, such as renewable energy, are imperative for Asia's emerging economies (which are heavily dependent on imported energy and resources) to tackle global environmental issues like climate change. Acknowledging this fact, recently, governments in the Asian region individually have been taking effective actions in the form of voluntary targets and policy commitments to improve the production and use of low-carbon technology, such as solar, wind, geo-thermal, and so forth. Nevertheless, the diffusion of these technologies has been through liberalized trade, which has been low compared with trade and investment in other energy intensive sectors. Though effective tariffs are low, non-tariff barriers or behind-the-border constraints are very high. In this exploratory study, the potential for increased exports in low-carbon technology and services under a grand regional coalition, partial regional coalition, and stand alone scenarios is studied. We find that production, trade, and investment in renewable energy technologies are very low regionally. There is a large gap between the demand for and the supply of low-carbon energy technology and associated pollution abatement services. Behind-the-border constraints that exist within the exporting country, such as poor infrastructure and inefficient institutions, create this gap between actually realized and potentially possible exports. This supply gap provides an opportunity for those emerging Asian economies, which have the potential to contribute to the manufacturing of such technologies individually and collectively pooling their physical and human capital.
Chinese Returnees and High-Tech Sector Outward FDI: The Case of Changzhou
Authors: Chen Zhao , Fang Tony
Published: September 2016

The rapid growth and high levels of internationalization by Chinese firms raise a natural interest in the study of the factors that have led to the notable international presence of Chinese firms. To contribute to this effort, we use data from the 2008–10 survey of China's high-tech firms, conducted by the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, to estimate the determinants of Chinese firm outward foreign direct investment (OFDI). In our analysis, the primary independent variables include high-tech intensity, human capital acquisition, and institutional factors. We also controlled for various firm characteristics such as firm age, total value of fixed assest, and firm ownership. Estimation from our fixed-effects model uncovers a number interesting patterns in OFDI outcomes. Most notable among the significant determinants of OFDI, the number of Chinese returnees employed by a firm seems to be more important than tax reduction policies. Further, the influence of the Chinese returnees have a stronger effect on non–state-controlled firms than they do for state-controlled firms. This finding is intuitive, because the Chinese returnees who were trained in the West have an understanding of product markets, labor markets, financial markets, language and business culture, and trade laws in both China and the West. Their unique skill sets and knowledge appear to serve as an important catalyst in the growth of OFDI and internationalization by Chinese firms.
Oxytocin Modulates Semantic Integration in Speech Comprehension
Authors: Ye Zheng , Stolk Arjen , Toni Ivan , Hagoort Peter
Published: September 2016

Listeners interpret utterances by integrating information from multiple sources including word level semantics and world knowledge. When the semantics of an expression is inconsistent with their knowledge about the world, the listener may have to search through the conceptual space for alternative possible world scenarios that can make the expression more acceptable. Such cognitive exploration requires considerable computational resources and might depend on motivational factors. This study explores whether and how oxytocin, a neuropeptide known to influence social motivation by reducing social anxiety and enhancing affiliative tendencies, can modulate the integration of world knowledge and sentence meanings. The study used a between-participant double-blind randomized placebo-controlled design. Semantic integration, indexed with magnetoencephalography through the N400m marker, was quantified while 45 healthy male participants listened to sentences that were either congruent or incongruent with facts of the world, after receiving intranasally delivered oxytocin or placebo. Compared with congruent sentences, world knowledge incongruent sentences elicited a stronger N400m signal from the left inferior frontal and anterior temporal regions and medial pFC (the N400m effect) in the placebo group. Oxytocin administration significantly attenuated the N400m effect at both sensor and cortical source levels throughout the experiment, in a state-like manner. Additional electrophysiological markers suggest that the absence of the N400m effect in the oxytocin group is unlikely due to the lack of early sensory or semantic processing or a general downregulation of attention. These findings suggest that oxytocin drives listeners to resolve challenges of semantic integration, possibly by promoting the cognitive exploration of alternative possible world scenarios.