bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling of a Composite Piezoelectric/Shape Memory Alloy Cantilevered Beam for Vibration Energy Harvesting
Authors: Rhimi Mohamed , Lajnef Nizar
Published: July 2013

Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) and Shape memory alloys (SMA) smart composites have been previously investigated for use as actuators. SMAs exhibit a high actuating strain but responds slowly, while PZTs supply small actuation with a fast response. The composite can be tailored to control its shape when subjected to different loads, thus leading to multiple functions actuators. In this study, the concept is applied in the design of energy harvesting devices for self-tuning and control of the output response. The material type and the composite fractions properties can be optimized to tune the system’s response in order to achieve maximum output and to compensate for the external environmental effects such as temperature.

In this paper, the energy harvesting capabilities of a cantilevered composite beam, containing piezoelectric ceramic and shape memory alloy cylindrical inclusions, are studied. The system is subject to base excitation input load. Only non-prestrained SMA inclusions are considered. A model based on the mean field theory, linear piezoelectricity, and one dimensional constitutive behavior of shape memory alloys is developed to describe the effect of SMA inclusions on the time and the frequency response of the composite. The PZT and the matrix behaviors are considered linear. The overall response of the composite is highly non-linear due to the phase transformation within the SMA inclusions. A preliminary analysis of the variations of the frequency response, the time response, the power output, and the efficiency of the device with respect to the materials fractions is presented. The temperature effects are also investigated.
Influence of the Latent Heat of Transformation and Thermomechanical Coupling on the Performance of Shape Memory Alloy Actuators
Authors: Tabesh Majid , Lester Brian , Hartl Darren , Lagoudas Dimitris
Published: July 2013

In this work, the influence of the latent heat of transformation and heat transfer on the performance of shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators is numerically explored. A 1D analytical model is first considered and used to perform parametric studies on the effects of geometry and heat transfer conditions on SMA wire responses. In order to consider the response of SMA structures, a recent SMA constitutive model is expanded to include the effects of the latent heat of transformation. The enhanced model is then implemented in a 3D finite element framework to solve the coupled and transient thermomechanical problems. The resultant model is used to explore the isothermal and adiabatic assumptions commonly used for quasi-static SMA modeling by considering the response of SMA structures. The responses of an axial SMA actuator heated from one end is evaluated and it is shown that the generation of latent heat during forward transformation and its absorption during reverse transformation decreases the actuation response when compared to a case neglecting thermal effects. It is concluded that the latent heat of transformation must be considered for the design of SMA components unless their operation can reasonably be approximated as isothermal.
Modelling of the Structure-Property Relationships in Auxetic Nanotube
Authors: Yao Yongtao , Alderson Andrew , Alderson Kim Lesley , Leng Jinsong
Published: July 2013

In this project, fully generalised analytical expressions for longitudinal Young’s modulus are developed for zigzag Single-Walled Nanotubes (SWNTs), based on a hexagonal honeycomb motif, using an energy equivalent approach. Honeycomb geometry (bond lengths and angles), and bond-stretch and bond-angle force constants are considered as variable parameters and deformation is assumed due to simultaneous bond stretching and bond angle variation in response to an applied axial load. A parametric study is then performed to explore the structure-property relationships in auxetic (negative Poisson’s ratio) nanotube.
Load-Initiated Two-Way Effect of Shape Memory Alloys in Composite Structures and a Phenomenological Modelling Approach
Authors: Gurka Martin , Hübler Moritz , Schmeer Sebastian , Breuer Ulf Paul
Published: July 2013

In this contribution we present a new method as a “basic toolbox” for proper design of active composite structures. The characterization of the complete integrated active component is described, including the properties of the hosting composite material, the proper choice and characterization of the active material which is to be integrated and the interaction of both. The finite element model which was used to design the active component is presented. In order to improve prediction accuracy and functionality of this phenomenological modeling approach the behavior of the integrated active material, namely Shape Memory Alloy (SMA), is analyzed separately. New opportunities for additional functionalities are investigated: Two-way actuation due to the stiffness of the hosting composite structure is investigated as well as the possibility to introduce different maximum strain for actuation due to different pre-strains in the actuating material. An application-oriented finite element model able to predict the structure shape in hot and cold states enables more complex designs and demonstrates the potential of this new technology for various applications.
Kernel Feature Space Based Low Velocity Impact Monitoring
Authors: Liu Yingtao , Fard Masoud Yekani , Chattopadhyay Aditi
Published: July 2013

Impact damage has been identified as a critical form of defect that constantly threatens the reliability of composite structures, such as those used in aircrafts and naval vessels. Low energy impacts can introduce barely visible damage and cause structural degradation. Therefore, efficient structural health monitoring methods, which can accurately detect, quantify, and localize impact damage in complex composite structures, are required. In this paper a novel damage detection methodology is demonstrated for monitoring and quantifying the impact damage propagation. Statistical feature matrices, composed of features extracted from the time and frequency domains, are developed. Kernel Principal Component Analysis (KPCA) is used to compress and classify the statistical feature matrices. Compared with traditional PCA algorithm, KPCA method shows better feature clustering and damage quantification capabilities. A new damage index, formulated using Mahalanobis distance, is defined to quantify impact damage. The developed methodology has been validated using low velocity impact experiments with a sandwich composite wing.
Shape Memory Effect Behavior of NiTi Torque Tubes in Torsion
Authors: Mehrabi Reza , Kadkhodaei Mahmoud , Taheri Masood , Elahinia Mohammad
Published: July 2013

In order to simulate the torsional behavior of NiTi torque tubes, two different 3D thermo-mechanical constitutive models are utilized. Firstly, an available incremental constitutive model is used in which a return mapping algorithm is implemented to numerically calculate the strains for any applied stresses. Secondly, Microplane theory is employed based on which 1D constitutive laws are considered for associated stress and strain components on any arbitrary plane passing through a material point followed by a homogenization process to generalize the 1D equations to a 3D macroscopic model. Both of the constitutive models are implemented in ABAQUS by developing UMAT. In order to compare the two approaches, torque-angle of rotation and shear stress-shear strain responses for torsion of thin-walled Nitinol torque tubes with different thicknesses are studied. The numerical results of these two approaches show to be in a good agreement indicating the capability of Microplane theory in constitutive modeling of shape memory alloys. This theory provides explicit relationships to calculate strains in terms of stresses, and this makes it very beneficial in obtaining the SMA responses in a fast and easy manner.
Influence of Sensor Statistics on Piezoelectric and Magneto-Elastic Damage Detection
Authors: Conrad David , Zagrai Andrei , Meisner Daniel
Published: July 2013

Increasing complexity of aerospace structures facilitates a growing need for structural health monitoring (SHM) systems capable of real-time active damage detection. A variety of sensing approaches have been demonstrated using embedded ultrasonic sensors such as piezoelectric wafer active sensors (PWAS) and magneto-elastic active sensors (MEAS). Common methodologies consider wave propagation (pitch-catch or pulse-echo) and standing wave (vibration or impedance) techniques with damage detection capabilities dependent upon structural geometry, material characteristics, distance to damage and damage size/orientation. While recent studies have employed damage detection and classification approaches that are dependent on cumulative statistics, this study explores the contribution of sensor parameters and experimental setup variability on the damage detection scheme. The impact of variability in PWAS and MEAS are considered on sensor use in ultrasonic and magneto-mechanical impedance damage detection.

In order to isolate sensor parameters, measurements were conducted with PWAS in free-free boundary conditions. Variability of PWAS parameters was evaluated by measuring the sensors impedance response. An analytical model of PWAS was used to estimate sensor parameters and to determine their variability. Additionally, experiments using MEAS were performed that demonstrate variation of magneto-mechanical impedance during structural dynamic tests. From these experiments the importance of sensor setup is discussed and its contribution into the overall detection scheme is explored.
Superresolution Microscopy Reveals Nanometer-Scale Reorganization of Inhibitory Natural Killer Cell Receptors upon Activation of NKG2D
Authors: Pageon Sophie V. , Cordoba Shaun-Paul , Owen Dylan M. , Rothery Stephen M. , Oszmiana Anna , Davis Daniel M.
Published: July 2013

The repositioning of inhibitory receptors on natural killer cells by an activating receptor is revealed by superresolution microscopy.
An unusual nasopharyngeal foreign body with unusual presentation as nasal regurgitation and change in voice
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Singh Devendra Bahadur , Singh Abhishek Bahadur
Published: July 2013

Upper aerodigestive tract may harbour foreign bodies such as sponges, grains, toy parts, stones, paper, insects, cotton, etc. These objects may go undetected for days or even weeks. A metallic foreign body after being inhaled and ultimately being lodged in the nasopharynx is a rare entity. We report a case of an unusual nasopharyngeal foreign body (metallic bolt) presenting with symptoms of nasal regurgitation and change in voice in a 2-year boy. The foreign body was diagnosed by X-ray skull lateral view including nasopharynx and was removed under general anaesthesia.
Imaging at London 2012 summer Olympic Games: analysis of demand and distribution of workload
Authors: Bethapudi Sarath , Budgett Richard , Engebretsen Lars , O'Connor Philip
Published: July 2013

Background

Very little data on the provision of imaging services at the summer Olympic Games have been published before. With 7.9 million Euros (£6.6 million, US$11 million) invested into setting up the imaging equipment at the purpose-built polyclinics for London 2012 summer Olympics, an ideal opportunity was presented to study the demand and distribution of workload on imaging services at the games.

Setting

Imaging services within polyclinics, London 2012 summer Olympic Games.

Aims

To analyse the demand and distribution of workload on radiology services at the London 2012 summer Olympic Games.

Methods

Data on radiological investigations performed at London 2012 summer Olympic Games were retrieved from Radiology Information System-picture archiving communication system, ATOS medical encounter database and analysed.

Results

1711 diagnostic and interventional procedures were performed at the Stratford Polyclinic within the main games village. Of these 48.8% were MRI scans, 20.2% were diagnostic ultrasound examinations, 23.6% were plain radiographs, 2.9% were CT scans and interventional procedures accounted for 4.3%. Nearly 75% of imaging was performed on athletes while less than 5% of the services were utilised by the workforce. Demand on radiology services peaked during week 2 of the games.

Conclusions

Imaging played a substantial role in providing medical services at the London 2012 summer Olympics.
Increased risk of injury following red and yellow cards, injuries and goals in FIFA World Cups
Authors: Ryynänen Jaakko , Dvorak Jiri , Peterson Lars , Kautiainen Hannu , Karlsson Jón , Junge Astrid , Börjesson Mats
Published: July 2013

Objective

To study the relationship between potentially game-disrupting incidents (PGDIs; red and yellow cards, goals and injuries) and the injury incidence in football.

Design

Prospective injury surveillance during three FIFA World Cups in 2002, 2006 and 2010. Official match statistics were obtained for all the matches played in the three tournaments.

Setting

2002, 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups.

Participants

Team physicians at the 2002, 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups.

Main outcome measures

Injury incidences and incidence rate ratios (IRRs).

Results

The injury incidence was significantly higher during match periods within the minute of, or during a five-minute period following a yellow card, red card, another injury or a goal (PGDIs) than during other match periods (76.7/1000 match hours; 95% CI (66.6 to 87.9) vs 54.0/1000 match hours (46.9 to 61.9), p<0.001). There were significant differences in injury incidence between different match periods, with the highest injury incidence seen in the last 15 min of the first half (p<0.001). The PGDIs (other than injury) had a tendency to increase towards the end of the game and the most frequent PGDI was a yellow card. There was a risk ratio of 1.17 (95% CI 1.08 to 1.26) for injury, per PGDI (other injuries excluded) (p<0.001), and 1.15 (95% CI 1.06 to 1.24) after adjusted match time (p<0.001).

Conclusions

The injury incidence is high within the five minutes following a PGDI. For both team management and players, being aware of the increased risk of injury directly after a PGDI may be of clinical relevance, as it may enable them to take precautions in order to prevent injuries. There are significant differences in injury incidence between different match periods and game-related factors, such as PGDIs, appear partly to contribute to this variation.
Defining the illness trajectory of metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Reed Elizabeth , Corner Jessica
Published: July 2013

Background

With significant developments in the management of metastatic breast cancer, the trajectory of progressive breast cancer is becoming increasingly complex with little understanding of the illness course experienced by women, or their ongoing problems and needs.

Aim

This study set out to systematically explore the illness trajectory of metastatic breast cancer using models from chronic illness as a framework.

Design

Longitudinal mixed methods studies detailing each woman's illness trajectory were developed by triangulating of narrative interviews, medical and nursing documentation and an assessment of functional ability using the Karnofsky Scale. The Corbin and Strauss Chronic Illness Trajectory Framework was used as a theoretical framework for the study.

Participants

Ten women aged between 40 and 78 years, with metastatic breast cancer.

Results

Women’s illness trajectories from diagnosis of metastatic disease ranged from 13 months to 5 years and 9 months. Eight of the 10 women died during the study. Chronic illness trajectory phases identified by Corbin and Strauss (pretrajectory, trajectory onset, living with progressive disease, downward phase and dying phase) were experienced by women with metastatic breast cancer. Three typical trajectories of different duration and intensity were identified. Women's lives were dominated by the physical burden of disease and treatment with little evidence of symptom control or support.

Conclusions

This is the first study to systematically explore the experience of women over time to define the metastatic breast cancer illness trajectory and provides evidence that current care provision is inadequate. Alternative models of care which address women's increasingly complex problems are needed.
MULTIFRACTIONAL SPACETIMES, ASYMPTOTIC SAFETY AND HOŘAVA–LIFSHITZ GRAVITY
Authors: CALCAGNI GIANLUCA
Published: July 2013

We compare the recently formulated multifractional spacetimes with field theories of quantum gravity based on the renormalization group (RG), such as asymptotic safety and Hořava–Lifshitz gravity. The change of spacetime dimensionality with the probed scale is realized in both cases by an adaptation of the measurement tools ("rods") to the scale, but in different ways. In the multifractional case, by an adaptation of the position-space measure, which can be encoded into an explicit scale dependence of effective coordinates. In the case of RG-based theories, by an adaptation of the momenta. The two pictures are mapped into each other, thus presenting the fractal structure of spacetime in RG-based theories under an alternative perspective.
COMPARISON OF METRICS FROM RETARDED INTEGRALS AND TRANSVERSE TRACELESS SUBGAUGE
Authors: LEWIS R. A. , MODANESE G.
Published: July 2013

The time-varying gravitational field produced by a Weber bar is used to explore physical and mathematical features of the linearized Einstein equation. We present a self-contained formal framework for the treatment of the linear field, that is applicable to several sources for which the standard quadrupolar formulas are not adequate. The expressions for retarded integrals reveal a singularity associated with boundary conditions. Results from the transverse traceless subgauge are compared with the radiation calculated from retarded integrals. Lienard–Wiechert potentials are used in a treatment of the Weber bar as a collection of point particles and further possible applications are outlined. The Riemann tensor clarifies the transition from near-field geodesic forces to tidal forces in the far field.
Algorithm 929
Authors: Mehra Mani , Goyal Kavita
Published: July 2013

A collection of the Matlab routines that compute the values of the scaling and wavelet functions (φ(x) and ψ(x) respectively) and the derivative of an arbitrary function (periodic or non periodic) using wavelet bases is presented. Initially, the case of Daubechies wavelets is taken and the procedure is explained for both collocation and Galerkin approaches. For each case a Matlab routine is provided to compute the differentiation matrix and the derivative of the functionf(d)= D(d)f. Moreover, the convergence of the derivative is shown graphically as a function of different parameters (the wavelet genus,Dand the scale,J) for two test functions. We then consider the use of spline wavelets.
Information diffusion in online social networks
Authors: Guille Adrien , Hacid Hakim , Favre Cecile , Zighed Djamel A.
Published: July 2013

Online social networks play a major role in the spread of information at very large scale. A lot of effort have been made in order to understand this phenomenon, ranging from popular topic detection to information diffusion modeling, including influential spreaders identification. In this article, we present a survey of representative methods dealing with these issues and propose a taxonomy that summarizes the state-of-the-art. The objective is to provide a comprehensive analysis and guide of existing efforts around information diffusion in social networks. This survey is intended to help researchers in quickly understanding existing works and possible improvements to bring.
What does an associate editor actually do?
Authors: Cormode Graham
Published: July 2013

What does a Associate Editor (AE) of a journal actually do? The answer may be far from obvious. This article describes the steps that one AE follows in handling a submission. The aim is to shed light on the process, for the benefit of authors, reviewers, and other AEs.
Highlights from ACM SIGSPATIAL GIS 2012 the 20th ACM SIGSPATIAL International Conference on Advances in Geographic Information Systems (Redondo Beach, California, November 6--9, 2012)
Authors: Kröger Peer , Tanin Egemen , Widmayer Peter
Published: July 2013

ACM SIGSPATIAL GIS 2012 was held at Redondo Beach, California and it was the 20th gathering of the conference. It is now the fifth time the conference was organized under the auspices of ACM SIGSPATIAL. The conference is the premier event for a variety of researchers, developers, and users who work in related areas to spatial information and GIS. It is an interdisciplinary gathering and provides a forum for original research contributions that cover conceptual, design, and implementation aspects of spatial information systems and GIS.
LBSN 2012 workshop report
Authors: Ghinita Gabriel , Neville Jennifer , Newsam Shawn
Published: July 2013

The ACM SIGSPATIAL International Workshop on Location-Based Social Networks (LBSN) had its fifth annual meeting on November 6
th
, 2012. Held on the opening of the ACM SIGSPATIAL GIS conference in Redondo Beach, California, the one-day LBSN'12 event brought together academic and industry researchers from US, Europe, Asia and South America. Similar to previous years, the main workshop themes were sharing location-related information via social apps running on mobile devices, and also leveraging collaborative social knowledge learned from user-generated and location-related content. It is noteworthy that this edition saw an increased focus on location-based social media, rather than just the more traditional setting of location-based social networks.
SWE 2012 workshop report
Authors: Liang Steve , Liu Yong , Xu Yan
Published: July 2013

The international Sensor Web Enablement (SWE) workshop series bring together sensor web experts to present and discuss the latest ideas about the broadly defined Sensor Web, its infrastructure, relevant algorithms and new innovative applications. The SWE workshops also serve as a forum for Sensor Web users, developers and researchers to debate and discuss the current state-of-the-art and to shape the future of the Sensor Web. SWE workshops especially welcome real-world results and deployments of the sensor web systems.
HealthGIS 2012 workshop report
Authors: Goldberg Daniel W. , Bak Peter , Horey James L. , Kanza Yaron
Published: July 2013

Public health and public healthcare are important social issues with deep implications for government administrations and with large effect on individual standards of living. In many countries, healthcare institutions are being pushed to their limit by an aging population and increased urbanization (which may lead to additional health issues such as pollution). Many of these challenges have strong geospatial components. For example, GIS techniques may be used to determine spatial correlates of health. In addition, the ability to detect and record the location history of individuals and groups using cellular phones coupled with the ability to analyze and visually present large amounts of geospatial data can be harnessed to advance health-related applications. Other notable examples include using geographic information systems and appropriate applications to assist the evacuation of injured people, monitoring the spread of infectious diseases, collecting data for statistical analysis of the effect of pollution on public health, and providing assistance to elderly people with orientation difficulties. These applications necessitate new techniques, systems, and algorithms for effectively utilizing geospatial data in the context of public health.
Activities of ACM SIGSPATIAL Australia chapter in 2012
Authors: Zhang Rui , Sharaf Mohamed A.
Published: July 2013

During 2012, ACM SIGSPATIAL Australia Chapter, standing at 16 members, has continued its role to support and enrich the spatial database research in Australia. Throughout the year, the chapter's officers and members were engaged in several activities within the chapter's overarching goals.
Regulation of lipid synthesis genes and milk fat production in human mammary epithelial cells during secretory activation
Authors: Mohammad Mahmoud A. , Haymond Morey W.
Published: July 2013

Expression of genes for lipid biosynthetic enzymes during initiation of lactation in humans is unknown. Our goal was to study mRNA expression of lipid metabolic enzymes in human mammary epithelial cell (MEC) in conjunction with the measurement of milk fatty acid (FA) composition during secretory activation. Gene expression from mRNA isolated from milk fat globule (MFG) and milk FA composition were measured from 6 h to 42 days postpartum in seven normal women. Over the first 96 h postpartum, daily milk fat output increased severalfold and mirrored expression of genes for all aspects of lipid metabolism and milk FA production, including lipolysis at the MEC membrane, FA uptake from blood, intracellular FA transport, de novo FA synthesis, FA and glycerol activation, FA elongation, FA desaturation, triglyceride synthesis, cholesterol synthesis, and lipid droplet formation. Expression of the gene for a key lipid synthesis regulator, sterol regulatory element-binding transcription factor 1 (SREBF1), increased 2.0-fold by 36 h and remained elevated over the study duration. Expression of genes for estrogen receptor 1, thyroid hormone-responsive protein, and insulin-induced 2 increased progressively to plateau by 96 h. In contrast, mRNA of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ decreased severalfold. With onset of lactation, increased de novo synthesis of FA was the most prominent change in milk FA composition and mirrored the expression of FA synthesis genes. In conclusion, milk lipid synthesis and secretion in humans is a complex process requiring the orchestration of a wide variety of pathways of which SREBF1 may play a primary role.
Metallothionein-I- and -II-deficient mice display increased susceptibility to cadmium-induced fetal growth restriction
Authors: Selvaratnam Johanna , Guan Haiyan , Koropatnick James , Yang Kaiping
Published: July 2013

Maternal cadmium exposure induces fetal growth restriction (FGR), but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. The placenta is the main organ known to protect the fetus from environmental toxins such as cadmium. In this study, we examine the role of the two key placental factors in cadmium-induced FGR. The first is placental enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), which is known to protect the fetus from exposure to high cortisol levels and subsequently FGR, and the second the cadmium binding/sequestering proteins metallotheionein (MT)-I and -II. Using the MT-I/II−/−mouse model, pregnant mice were administered cadmium, following which pups and placentas were collected and examined. MT-I/II−/−pups exposed to cadmium were significantly growth restricted, but neither placental weight nor 11β-HSD2 was altered. Although cadmium administration did not result in any visible structural changes in the placenta, increased apoptosis was detected in MT-I/II−/−placentas following cadmium exposure, with a significant increase in levels of both p53 and caspase 3 proteins. Additionally, glucose transporter (GLUT1) was significantly reduced in MT-I/II−/−placentas of pups exposed to cadmium, whereas zinc transporter (ZnT-1) remained unaltered. Taken together, these results demonstrate that MT-I/II−/−mice are more vulnerable to cadmium-induced FGR. The present data also suggest that increased apoptosis and reduced GLUT1 expression in the placenta contribute to the molecular mechanisms underlying cadmium-induced FGR.
p-FAK-Tyr397 regulates spermatid adhesion in the rat testis via its effects on F-actin organization at the ectoplasmic specialization
Authors: Wan Hin-Ting , Mruk Dolores D. , Li Stephen Y. T. , Mok Ka-Wai , Lee Will M. , Wong Chris K. C. , Cheng C. Yan
Published: July 2013

During spermatogenesis, the molecular mechanism that confers spermatid adhesion to the Sertoli cell at the apical ectoplasmic specialization (apical ES), a testis-specific F-actin-rich adherens junction, in the rat testis remains elusive. Herein, the activated form of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), p-FAK-Tyr397, a component of the apical ES that was expressed predominantly and stage specifically in stage VII-early stage VIII tubules, was found to be a crucial apical ES regulator. Using an FAK-Y397E phosphomimetic mutant cloned in a mammalian expression vector for its transfection vs. FAK and vector alone in adult rat testes in vivo, its overexpression was found to cause defects in spermiation. These defects in spermiation were manifested by entrapment of spermatids in the seminiferous epithelium in late stage VIII–X tubules and were mediated by a disruption on the spatiotemporal expression and/or mislocalization of actin regulatory protein actin-related protein 3, which induces branched actin polymerization, epidermal growth factor receptor pathway substrate 8 (an actin barbed end capping and bundling protein), and palladin (an actin cross-linking and bundling protein). This thus perturbed changes of F-actin organization at the apical ES to facilitate spermiation, which also led to a concomitant alteration in the distribution and upregulation of adhesion proteins nectin-2 and nectin-3 at the apical ES. As such, nectin-2 and -3 remained at the apical ES to anchor step 19 spermatids on to the epithelium, delaying spermiation. These findings illustrate a mechanistic pathway mediated by p-FAK-Tyr397 that regulates spermatid adhesion at the apical ES in vivo.
Complements and the Wound Healing Cascade: An Updated Review
Authors: Sinno Hani , Prakash Satya
Published: July 2013

Wound healing is a complex pathway of regulated reactions and cellular infiltrates. The mechanisms at play have been thoroughly studied but there is much still to learn. The health care system in the USA alone spends on average 9 billion dollars annually on treating of wounds. To help reduce patient morbidity and mortality related to abnormal or prolonged skin healing, an updated review and understanding of wound healing is essential. Recent works have helped shape the multistep process in wound healing and introduced various growth factors that can augment this process. The complement cascade has been shown to have a role in inflammation and has only recently been shown to augment wound healing. In this review, we have outlined the biology of wound healing and discussed the use of growth factors and the role of complements in this intricate pathway.
Total Variation Regularization Algorithms for Images Corrupted with Different Noise Models: A Review
Authors: Rodríguez Paul
Published: July 2013

Total Variation (TV) regularization has evolved from an image denoising method for images corrupted with Gaussian noise into a more general technique for inverse problems such as deblurring, blind deconvolution, and inpainting, which also encompasses the Impulse, Poisson, Speckle, and mixed noise models. This paper focuses on giving a summary of the most relevant TV numerical algorithms for solving the restoration problem for grayscale/color images corrupted with several noise models, that is, Gaussian, Salt & Pepper, Poisson, and Speckle (Gamma) noise models as well as for the mixed noise scenarios, such the mixed Gaussian and impulse model. We also include the description of the maximum a posteriori (MAP) estimator for each model as well as a summary of general optimization procedures that are typically used to solve the TV problem.
Sterile Osteitis and Suppurative Arthritis Associated with Pannus Responding to Colchicine
Authors: Tezcan Mehmet Engin , Ekinci Özgür , Uçar Murat , Göker Berna
Published: July 2013

Sterile suppurative arthritis is characterized by neutrophilic infiltration of joints without any causative pathogen. Here, we present a 32-year-old man with refractory osteitis and erosive suppurative oligoarthritis with pannus. Treatments with multiple disease modifying antirheumatic drugs were all unsuccessful. However, he had clinical response to colchicine and the synovial hypertrophy and the pannus in the MRI of his left shoulder resolved. In this case, the effects of colchicine on neutrophils might have played a role in treating neutrophilic sterile suppurative arthritis, which, in adults, might be a distinct oligoarticular disease.
A Robust Control Chart for Monitoring Dispersion
Authors: Zhou Maoyuan , Geng Wei
Published: July 2013

Most robust control charts in the literature are for monitoring process location parameters, such as mean or median, rather than process dispersion parameters. This paper develops a new robust control chart by integrating a two-sample nonparametric test into the effective change-point model. Our proposed chart is easy in computation, convenient to use, and very powerful in detecting process dispersion shifts.
Antigenicity and Immunogenicity of Rotavirus VP6 Protein Expressed on the Surface ofLactococcus lactis
Authors: Esteban L. E. , Temprana C. F. , Argüelles M. H. , Glikmann G. , Castello A. A.
Published: July 2013

Group A rotaviruses are the major etiologic agents of acute gastroenteritis worldwide in children and young animals. Among its structural proteins, VP6 is the most immunogenic and is highly conserved within this group.Lactococcus lactisis a food-grade, Gram-positive, and nonpathogenic lactic acid bacteria that has already been explored as a mucosal delivery system of heterologous antigens. In this work, the nisin-controlled expression system was used to display the VP6 protein at the cell surface ofL. lactis. Conditions for optimal gene expression were established by testing different nisin concentrations, cell density at induction, and incubation times after induction. Cytoplasmic and cell wall protein extracts were analyzed by Western blot and surface expression was confirmed by flow cytometry. Both analysis provided evidence that VP6 was efficiently expressed and displayed on the cell surface ofL. lactis. Furthermore, the humoral response of mice immunized with recombinantL. lactiswas evaluated and the displayed recombinant VP6 protein proved to be immunogenic. In conclusion, this is the first report of displaying VP6 protein on the surface ofL. lactisto induce a specific immune response against rotavirus. These results provide the basis for further evaluation of this VP6-displayingL. lactisas a mucosal delivery vector in a mouse model of rotavirus infection.
Electrical Conduction Mechanism in Solid Polymer Electrolytes: New Concepts to Arrhenius Equation
Authors: Aziz Shujahadeen B. , Abidin Zul Hazrin Z.
Published: July 2013

Solid polymer electrolytes based on chitosan NaCF3SO3have been prepared by the solution cast technique. X-ray diffraction shows that the crystalline phase of the pure chitosan membrane has been partially disrupted. The fourier transform infrared (FTIR) results reveal the complexation between the chitosan polymer and the sodium triflate (NaTf) salt. The dielectric constant and DC conductivity follow the same trend with NaTf salt concentration. The increase in dielectric constant at different temperatures indicates an increase in DC conductivity. The ion conduction mechanism follows the Arrhenius behavior. The dependence of DC conductivity on both temperature and dielectric constant (σdc(T,ε′)=σ0e−Ea/KBT) is also demonstrated.
Health Literacy Influences Heart Failure Knowledge Attainment but Not Self-Efficacy for Self-Care or Adherence to Self-Care over Time
Authors: Chen Aleda M. H. , Yehle Karen S. , Albert Nancy M. , Ferraro Kenneth F. , Mason Holly L. , Murawski Matthew M. , Plake Kimberly S.
Published: July 2013

Background. Inadequate health literacy may be a barrier to gaining knowledge about heart failure (HF) self-care expectations, strengthening self-efficacy for self-care behaviors, and adhering to self-care behaviors over time.Objective. To examine if health literacy is associated with HF knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-care adherence longitudinally.Methods. Prior to education, newly referred patients at three HF clinics (N=51, age:64.7±13.0years) completed assessments of health literacy, HF knowledge, self-efficacy, and adherence to self-care at baseline, 2, and 4 months. Repeated measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni-adjusted alpha levels was used to test longitudinal outcomes.Results. Health literacy was associated with HF knowledge longitudinally (P<0.001) but was not associated with self-efficacy self-care adherence. In posthoc analyses, participants with inadequate health literacy had less HF knowledge than participants with adequate (P<0.001) but not marginal (P=0.073) health literacy.Conclusions. Adequate health literacy was associated with greater HF knowledge but not self-efficacy or adherence to self-care expectations over time. If nurses understand patients’ health literacy level, they may educate patients using methods that promote understanding of concepts. Since interventions that promote self-efficacy and adherence to self-care were not associated with health literacy level, new approaches must be examined.
Entire Solutions of an Integral Equation in R5
Authors: Feng Xin , Xu Xingwang
Published: July 2013

We will study the entire positive C0 solution of the geometrically and analytically interesting integral equation: u(x)=1/C5∫R5‍|x-y|u-q(y)dy with 0<q in R5. We will show that only when q=11, there are positive entire solutions which are given by the closed form u(x)=c(1+|x|2)1/2 up to dilation and translation. The paper consists of two parts. The first part is devoted to showing that q must be equal to 11 if there exists a positive entire solution to the integral equation. The tool to reach this conclusion is the well-known Pohozev identity. The amazing cancelation occurred in Pohozev’s identity helps us to conclude the claim. It is this exponent which makes the moving sphere method work. In the second part, as normal, we adopt the moving sphere method based on the integral form to solve the integral equation.
Multiple Skeletal Muscle Metastases from Colon Carcinoma Preceded by Paraneoplastic Dermatomyositis
Authors: Landriscina Matteo , Gerardi Assunta Maria Teresa , Fersini Alberto , Modoni Sergio , Stoppino Luca Pio , Macarini Luca , Sanguedolce Francesca , Bufo Pantaleo , Neri Vincenzo
Published: July 2013

Skeletal muscle metastases are very rare events in colorectal carcinoma. By contrast, dermatomyositis is an idiopathic inflammatory myopathy with characteristic cutaneous manifestations and a well-recognized association with several human malignancies and, among others, colorectal cancer. Here, we report the case of a 71-year-old woman with paraneoplastic dermatomyositis followed by the development of a metastatic colon cancer. Interestingly, this patient developed multiple skeletal metastases which were preceded by the worsening of systemic symptoms of dermatomyositis. This observation suggests that, while muscle tissue is usually resistant to the development of tumor metastases, the inflammatory and immune response which characterizes and boosts paraneoplastic myopathy may represent a favorable soil for tumor cell invasion and metastasization to skeletal muscles.
A Universal Model for Predicting Dynamics of the Epidemics Caused by Special Pathogens
Authors: Bachinsky Alexander G. , Nizolenko Lily Ph.
Published: July 2013

A universal model intended primarily for predicting dynamics of the mass epidemics (outbreaks) caused by special pathogens is being developed at the State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector. The model includes the range of major countermeasures: preventive and emergency mass vaccination, vaccination of risk groups as well as search for and isolation/observation of infected cases, contacts, and suspects, and quarantine. The intensity of interventions depends on the availability of the relevant resources. The effect of resource limitations on the development of a putative epidemic of Ebola hemorrhagic fever is demonstrated. The modeling results allow for estimation of the material and human resources necessary for eradication of an epidemic.
Use of Molecular Dynamics for the Refinement of an Electrostatic Model for the In Silico Design of a Polymer Antidote for the Anticoagulant Fondaparinux
Authors: Cajiao Adriana , Kwok Ezra , Gopaluni Bhushan , Kizhakkedathu Jayachandran N.
Published: July 2013

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations results are herein incorporated into an electrostatic model used to determine the structure of an effective polymer-based antidote to the anticoagulant fondaparinux. In silico data for the polymer or its cationic binding groups has not, up to now, been available, and experimental data on the structure of the polymer-fondaparinux complex is extremely limited. Consequently, the task of optimizing the polymer structure is a daunting challenge. MD simulations provided a means to gain microscopic information on the interactions of the binding groups and fondaparinux that would have otherwise been inaccessible. This was used to refine the electrostatic model and improve the quantitative model predictions of binding affinity. Once refined, the model provided guidelines to improve electrostatic forces between candidate polymers and fondaparinux in order to increase association rate constants.
Adaptive Approach for Boundary Effects Reduction in Rotating Machine Signals Analysis
Authors: Su Hang , Liu Quan , Li Jingsong
Published: July 2013

Boundary effects are caused by incomplete data in the boundary regions when the analysis window gets closer to the edge of a signal. Various extension schemes have been developed to handle the boundaries of finite length signals to reduce the boundary effects. Zero padding, periodic extension, and symmetric extension are some basic extension methods. However, these solutions have drawbacks. In this paper, we consider the problem of handling the boundary effects due to improper extension methods in the wavelet transform for the application of fault diagnosis of rotating machine. An extension algorithm based on curve fitting with properties that make it more suitable for boundary effects reduction is presented. This extension algorithm could preserve the time-varying characteristics of the signals and be effective to reduce distortions appearing at the boundary. Then, an interpolation approach is used in the boundary effects region to further alleviate the distortions. Procedures for realization of these two algorithms and relative issues are presented. Several experimental tests show that the proposed algorithms are efficient to alleviate the boundary effects in comparison to the existing extension methods.
Tuning Aerosol Particle Size Distribution of Metered Dose Inhalers Using Cosolvents and Surfactants
Authors: Saleem Imran Y. , Smyth Hugh D. C.
Published: July 2013

Objectives.The purpose of these studies was to understand the influence of cosolvent and surfactant contributions to particle size distributions emitted from solution metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) based on the propellant HFA 227.Methods.Two sets of formulations were prepared: (a) pMDIs-HFA 227 containing cosolvent (5–15% w/w ethanol) with constant surfactant (pluronic) concentration and (b) pMDIs-HFA 227 containing surfactant (0–5.45% w/w pluronic) with constant cosolvent concentration. Particle size distributions emitted from these pMDIs were analyzed using aerodynamic characterization (inertial impaction) and laser diffraction methods.Results. Both cosolvent and surfactant concentrations were positively correlated with median particle sizes; that is, drug particle size increased with increasing ethanol and pluronic concentrations. However, evaluation of particle size distributions showed that cosolvent caused reduction in the fine particle mode magnitude while the surfactant caused a shift in the mode position. These findings highlight the different mechanisms by which these components influence droplet formation and demonstrate the ability to utilize the different effects in formulations of pMDI-HFA 227 for independently modulating particle sizes in the respirable region.Conclusion. Potentially, the formulation design window generated using these excipients in combination could be used to match the particle size output of reformulated products to preexisting pMDI products.
Mechanical Elongation of the Small Intestine: Evaluation of Techniques for Optimal Screw Placement in a Rodent Model
Authors: Hausbrandt P. A. , Ainoedhofer H. , Saxena A. K. , Schalamon J.
Published: July 2013

Introduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate techniques and establish an optimal method for mechanical elongation of small intestine (MESI) using screws in a rodent model in order to develop a potential therapy for short bowel syndrome (SBS).Material and Methods. Adult female Sprague Dawley rats (n=24) with body weight from 250 to 300 g (Σ=283) were evaluated using 5 different groups in which the basic denominator for the technique involved the fixation of a blind loop of the intestine on the abdominal wall with the placement of a screw in the lumen secured to the abdominal wall.Results. In all groups with accessible screws, the rodents removed the implants despite the use of washers or suits to prevent removal. Subcutaneous placement of the screw combined with antibiotic treatment and dietary modifications was finally successful. In two animals autologous transplantation of the lengthened intestinal segment was successful.Discussion. While the rodent model may provide useful basic information on mechanical intestinal lengthening, further investigations should be performed in larger animals to make use of the translational nature of MESI in human SBS treatment.
Intracardiac Thrombosis during Adult Liver Transplantation
Authors: Moguilevitch Marina , Broderick Carlene
Published: July 2013

Intracardiac thrombosis (ICT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) during adult liver transplantation are rare but potentially lethal complications. They are often overlooked because of significant diagnostic challenges. The combination of hemodynamic compromise and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) findings allows for correct diagnosis. A large variety of putative risk factors for ICT and PE have been suggested, but these events are considered to be multifactorial. There are different proposed treatment modalities for these devastating complications. Unfortunately, in spite of growing knowledge in this area, intraoperative and postoperative mortalities remain very high. The retrospective nature of the study of these events makes the case reports extremely valuable.
Nonfragile Gain-Scheduled Control for Discrete-Time Stochastic Systems with Randomly Occurring Sensor Saturations
Authors: Li Wangyan , Wei Guoliang , Karimi Hamid Reza , Liu Xiaohui
Published: July 2013

This paper is devoted to tackling the control problem for a class of discrete-time stochastic systems with randomly occurring sensor saturations. The considered sensor saturation phenomenon is assumed to occur in a random way based on the time-varying Bernoulli distribution with measurable probability in real time. The aim of the paper is to design a nonfragile gain-scheduled controller with probability-dependent gains which can be achieved by solving a convex optimization problem via semidefinite programming method. Subsequently, a new kind of probability-dependent Lyapunov functional is proposed in order to derive the controller with less conservatism. Finally, an illustrative example will demonstrate the effectiveness of our designed procedures.