bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Streamline Simulation and Analysis of Pedestrian Weaving Flow in Large Passenger Terminal
Authors: Li Jun , Wang Jing , Dong Yuanfang , Jia Hongfei , Li Yanzhong
Published: February 2015

A new concept called the extended weaving area is proposed to relieve the conflicts and clogging caused by pedestrian weaving in both time and space in large passenger terminal. The cellular automaton model that considers pedestrian walking habits based on the floor field is adopted. Numerical simulations are carried out in MATLAB environment to explore the relationship between the emptying time and bottleneck setting when four groups of pedestrians walk to four exits through the weaving areas with different settings. It is found that, by using improved extended weaving area settings, the stress of the weaving area could be relieved in both time and space; thus the efficiency of pedestrians passing could be improved. Based on the simulation, the threshold of single bottleneck width in the extended weaving area is also given in this research.
Influence of Elicitation and Germination Conditions on Biological Activity of Wheat Sprouts
Authors: Dziki Dariusz , Gawlik-Dziki Urszula , Kordowska-Wiater Monika , Domań-Pytka Monika
Published: February 2015

The influence of elicitation, time, and temperature of germination on the biological activity of wheat sprouts was studied. The total phenolics content (TPC), antioxidant activity (AA), and microbiological purity of seeds of three wheat cultivars elicited withSaccharomyces cerevisiae(Y) andSalix daphnoidesbark extracts (W) and their mixture (1 : 1) germinated in different conditions were studied. The increase of germination time caused an increase the TPC and AA for all tested wheat cultivars. Germination temperature also influenced these parameters. Generally the highest values in TPC were obtained for sprouts germinated at 20°C. This tendency was found for all tested wheat cultivars. The highest values of TPC and AA were obtained after elicitation byS. daphnoidesbark extract. The results of microbiological examination showed that generally for seeds germinated at lower temperature (15°C and 20°C) and during 2 and 4 days the molds were not detected and the levels of aerobic bacteria did not exceed the usually accepted limits. Taking into account both biological activity and microbiological purity of samples the best quality sprouts were in the most cases obtained for wheat germinated during four days at 20°C and elicited by W.
Safety Assessment of Low-Contaminated Equipment Dismantling at Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Babilas Egidijus , Ušpuras Eugenijus , Rimkevičius Sigitas , Dundulis Gintautas , Vaišnoras Mindaugas
Published: February 2015

The decommissioning of nuclear facilities requires adequate planning and demonstration that dismantling and decontamination activities can be conducted safely. Existing safety standards require that an appropriate safety assessment be performed to support the decommissioning plan for each facility (International Atomic Energy Agency, 2006). This paper presents safety assessment approach used in Lithuania during the development of the first dismantling and decontamination project for Ignalina NPP. The paper will mainly focus on the identification and assessment of the hazards raised due to dismantling and decontamination activities at Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant and on the assessment of the nonradiological and radiological consequences of the indicated most dangerous initiating event. The drop of heavy item was indicated as one of most dangerous initiating events for the discussed Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant dismantling and decontamination project. For the analysis of the nonradiological impact the finite element model for the load drop force calculation was developed. The radiological impact was evaluated in those accident cases which would lead to the worst radiological consequences. The assessments results show that structural integrity of the building and supporting columns of building structures will be maintained and radiological consequences are lower than the annual regulatory operator dose limit.
Detection of SNCA and FBN1 Methylation in the Stool as a Biomarker for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Li Wen-han , Zhang Hao , Guo Qi , Wu Xuan-di , Xu Zi-sen , Dang Cheng-xue , Xia Peng , Song Yong-chun
Published: February 2015

Aim.We examined the methylation status of SNCA and FBN1 genes in patients’ paired tissue and stool samples for detection of colorectal cancer (CRC).Patients and Methods. 89 DNA tissue samples (normal/cancer) and corresponding stool samples were analyzed in our study. In addition, 30 stool samples were collected as healthy controls.Results. The methylation level of those samples was measured by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP). The result shows that compared with the paired controls, both SNCA and FBN1 were significantly hypermethylated in CRC patients in tissue samples (P<0.001). In the stool samples, hypermethylated SNCA and FBN1 were detected to be significantly higher than that in normal stool samples (P<0.001). The combined sensitivity of at least one positive among the two markers in stool samples was 84.3%, with a specificity of 93.3%. In addition, our experiment suggested that the positive rates of SNCA and FBN1 in Dukes A stage were significantly higher than that of FOBT (P=0.039;P=0.006, resp.).Conclusion. We concluded that methylation testing of SNCA and FBN1 genes in stool sample may offer a good alternative in a simple, promising, and noninvasive detection of colorectal cancer.
An Optimization Method for the Remanufacturing Dynamic Facility Layout Problem with Uncertainties
Authors: Li Lingling , Li Congbo , Ma Huijie , Tang Ying
Published: February 2015

Remanufacturing is a practice of growing importance due to increasing environmental awareness and regulations. Facility layout design, as the cornerstone of effective facility planning, is concerned about resource localization for a well-coordinated workflow that leads to lower material handling costs and reduced lead times. However, due to stochastic returns of used products/components and their uncontrollable quality conditions, the remanufacturing process exhibits a high level of uncertainty challenging the facility layout design for remanufacturing. This paper undertakes this problem and presents an optimization method for remanufacturing dynamic facility layout with variable process capacities, unequal processing cells, and intercell material handling. A dynamic multirow layout model is presented for layout optimization and a modified simulated annealing heuristic is proposed toward the determination of optimal layout schemes. The approach is demonstrated through a machine tool remanufacturing system.
The Two-Dimensional Heat Transfer Analysis in Arrayed Fins with the Thermal Dissipation Substrate
Authors: Hu Hai-Ping
Published: February 2015

The aim of the present study is to investigate the two-dimensional heat transfer analysis in arrayed fins with thermal dissipation substrate. The governing equations for the fins and the substrate are expressed with Laplace equations, and the boundary conditions around the fins and substrate are Robin conditions. The present investigation first aims to provide a solution with regard to the geometry models by a series truncation method. Then the research will compare the results of the series truncation method with the point-matching method. Furthermore, the present study will also discuss the effects of dimension and Biot number of the fins on local dimensionless temperature, mean temperature, and heat transfer rate.
Urinary F2-Isoprostanes and Metabolic Markers of Fat Oxidation
Authors: Il’yasova Dora , Wagenknecht Lynne E. , Spasojevic Ivan , Watkins Steven , Bowden Donald , Wang Frances , D’Agostino Ralph B.
Published: February 2015

Metabolomic studies of increased fat oxidation showed increase in circulating acylcarnitines C2, C8, C10, and C12 and decrease in C3, C4, and C5. We hypothesize that urinary F2-isoprostanes reflect intensity of fatty acid oxidation and are associated with circulating C2, C8, C10, and C12 directly and with C3, C4, and C5 inversely. Four urinary F2-isoprostane isomers and serum acylcarnitines are quantified using LC-MS/MS within the Insulin Resistance Atherosclerosis Study nondiabetic cohort (n= 682). Cross-sectional associations between fasting urinary F2-isoprostanes (summarized as a composite index) and the selected acylcarnitines are examined using generalized linear models. F2-isoprostane index is associated with C2 and C12 directly and with C5 inversely: the adjusted beta coefficients are 0.109, 0.072, and −0.094, respectively (P< 0.05). For these acylcarnitines and for F2-isoprostanes, the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of incident diabetes are calculated from logistic regression models: the ORs (95% CI) are 0.77 (0.60–0.97), 0.79 (0.62–1.01), 1.18 (0.92–1.53), and 0.51 (0.35–0.76) for C2, C12, C5, and F2-isoprostanes, respectively. The direction of the associations between urinary F2-isoprostanes and three acylcarnitines (C2, C5, and C12) supports our hypothesis. The inverse associations of C2 and C12 and with incident diabetes are consistent with the suggested protective role of efficient fat oxidation.
Coverage Restoration Method for Wireless Sensor Networks of Distributed PV System
Authors: Fu Zhixin , Liu Zhen , Yuan Yue , Zhao Min , Li Qiaomu
Published: February 2015

Continuous capacity increase of distributed grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system produces more obvious disturbance on the grid. Monitoring network technology can provide protection for the safety and stability of power grid operation, but sensor nodes of the monitoring network will fall to failure due to environmental interference. According to the performance degradation problem caused by nodes failure in PV monitoring network, particle swarm optimization (PSO) of natural selection based on random weight is proposed in this paper to optimize monitoring performance. This method can restore the monitoring network by arousing redundant nodes. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Vitamin A-Deficient Diet Accelerated Atherogenesis in Apolipoprotein E−/−Mice and Dietaryβ-Carotene Prevents This Consequence
Authors: Relevy Noa Zolberg , Harats Dror , Harari Ayelet , Ben-Amotz Ami , Bitzur Rafael , Rühl Ralph , Shaish Aviv
Published: February 2015

Vitamin A is involved in regulation of glucose concentrations, lipid metabolism, and inflammation, which are major risk factors for atherogenesis. However, the effect of vitamin A deficiency on atherogenesis has not been investigated. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to examine whether vitamin A deficiency accelerates atherogenesis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice (apoE−/−). ApoE−/−mice were allocated into the following groups: control, fed vitamin A-containing chow diet; BC, fed chow diet fortified withDunaliellapowder containingβc isomers; VAD, fed vitamin A-deficient diet; and VAD-BC group, fed vitamin A-deficient diet fortified with aDunaliellapowder. Following 15 weeks of treatment, liver retinol concentration had decreased significantly in the VAD group to about 30% that of control group. Vitamin A-deficient diet significantly increased both plasma cholesterol concentrations and the atherosclerotic lesion area at the aortic sinus (+61%) compared to the control group. Dietaryβc fortification inhibited the elevation in plasma cholesterol and retarded atherogenesis in mice fed the vitamin A-deficient diet. The results imply that dietary vitamin A deficiency should be examined as a risk factor for atherosclerosis and that dietaryβc, as a sole source of retinoids, can compensate for vitamin A deficiency.
Characterization of Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells on Biomaterials for Bone Tissue EngineeringIn Vitro
Authors: Henrich Dirk , Verboket René , Schaible Alexander , Kontradowitz Kerstin , Oppermann Elsie , Brune Jan C. , Nau Christoph , Meier Simon , Bonig Halvard , Marzi Ingo , Seebach Caroline
Published: February 2015

Bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMCs) are suitable for bone tissue engineering. Comparative data regarding the needs of BMC for the adhesion on biomaterials and biocompatibility to various biomaterials are lacking to a large extent. Therefore, we evaluated whether a surface coating would enhance BMC adhesion and analyze the biocompatibility of three different kinds of biomaterials. BMCs were purified from human bone marrow aspirate samples. Beta tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP, without coating or coated with fibronectin or human plasma), demineralized bone matrix (DBM), and bovine cancellous bone (BS) were assessed. Seeding efficacy onβ-TCP was 95% regardless of the surface coating. BMC demonstrated a significantly increased initial adhesion on DBM andβ-TCP compared to BS. On day 14, metabolic activity was significantly increased in BMC seeded on DBM in comparison to BMC seeded on BS. Likewise increased VEGF-synthesis was observed on day 2 in BMC seeded on DBM when compared to BMC seeded on BS. The seeding efficacy of BMC on uncoated biomaterials is generally high although there are differences between these biomaterials. Beta-TCP and DBM were similar and both superior to BS, suggesting either as suitable materials for spatial restriction of BMC used for regenerative medicine purposesin vivo.
A Fast Learning Method for Multilayer Perceptrons in Automatic Speech Recognition Systems
Authors: Cai Chenghao , Xu Yanyan , Ke Dengfeng , Su Kaile
Published: February 2015

We propose a fast learning method for multilayer perceptrons (MLPs) on large vocabulary continuous speech recognition (LVCSR) tasks. A preadjusting strategy based on separation of training data and dynamic learning-rate with a cosine function is used to increase the accuracy of a stochastic initial MLP. Weight matrices of the preadjusted MLP are restructured by a method based on singular value decomposition (SVD), reducing the dimensionality of the MLP. A back propagation (BP) algorithm that fits the unfolded weight matrices is used to train the restructured MLP, reducing the time complexity of the learning process. Experimental results indicate that on LVCSR tasks, in comparison with the conventional learning method, this fast learning method can achieve a speedup of around 2.0 times with improvement on both the cross entropy loss and the frame accuracy. Moreover, it can achieve a speedup of approximately 3.5 times with only a little loss of the cross entropy loss and the frame accuracy. Since this method consumes less time and space than the conventional method, it is more suitable for robots which have limitations on hardware.
Polynomiography Based on the Nonstandard Newton-Like Root Finding Methods
Authors: Gdawiec Krzysztof , Kotarski Wiesław , Lisowska Agnieszka
Published: February 2015

A survey of some modifications based on the classic Newton’s and the higher order Newton-like root finding methods for complex polynomials is presented. Instead of the standard Picard’s iteration several different iteration processes, described in the literature, which we call nonstandard ones, are used. Kalantari’s visualizations of root finding process are interesting from at least three points of view: scientific, educational, and artistic. By combining different kinds of iterations, different convergence tests, and different colouring we obtain a great variety of polynomiographs. We also check experimentally that using complex parameters instead of real ones in multiparameter iterations do not destabilize the iteration process. Moreover, we obtain nice looking polynomiographs that are interesting from the artistic point of view. Real parts of the parameters alter symmetry, whereas imaginary ones cause asymmetric twisting of polynomiographs.
An Alternative Approach to Solutions of the MGECSC Potential in Presence of External Electric Field
Authors: Bahar M. K.
Published: February 2015

For the first time the Schrödinger equation with more general exponential cosine screened Coulomb potential in the presence of external electric field is solved approximately and analytically by applying an ansatz to eigenfunction of corresponding Hamiltonian and then energy values and wave functions are obtained. Since this potential turns into four different potential cases when considering different cases of the parameters in the potential, energies and eigenfunctions for these four different potentials are already to be found by solving Schrödinger equation with MGECSC potential. Energy values and wave functions obtained by using different values of potential parameters for each of these four different potential are compared with the results of other studies. Since the obtained general solutions in this study have been found in the presence of external electric field, the external electric field effects on systems with the mentioned four different potentials are also easily investigated. One of advantages of the present results and method is that if external electric field is equal to zero, general mathematical structure of corresponding equations does not change and then electric field effect can be eliminated. The presence or absence of electric field does not prevent solving the Schrödinger equation analytically.
Holistic Ontology-Based Assistance System for Efficient Process Model Parameter Identification
Authors: Hensel Burkhard , Wagner Thomas , Gellrich André , Kabitzsch Klaus , Kauschinger Bernd
Published: February 2015

Accurate models of technical systems are the basis for many tasks like system analysis, predictions, or controller design. Usually, the values of several important parameters cannot be determined by theoretical analysis only; instead, process identification is necessary. For several applications, the efficiency of the identification procedure is very important, for example, for the creation of thermal models of machine tools, because of the large time constants and the expensive machine time. The goal of the authors is the support of this task as far as possible by software. This paper contributes to that goal twofold: on the one hand, it provides a collection of influences which have to be considered for supporting the identification procedure. On the other hand, concepts for computer-based support are presented—ontologies and automatic design methods based on evolutionary algorithms.
Thorough Characterization of Brazilian New Generation of Eucalypt Clones and Grass for Pulp Production
Authors: Gomes Fernando José Borges , Colodette Jorge Luiz , Burnet Auphélia , Batalha Larisse Aparecida Ribas , Santos Fernando Almeida , Demuner Iara Fontes
Published: February 2015

Eucalypt wood is becoming the most important raw material for the pulp industries in South America. However, due to the high wood cost in comparison to other raw material sources, nonwoody materials are also being investigated aiming at pulp production. In this way, this paper aimed at the evaluation of eighteen eucalypt clones obtained from the Brazilian Genolyptus project, regarding their potential characteristics for pulp production. Aiming at the same goal, two species of elephant grass were also evaluated as alternative raw material sources. Through the analyses of the anatomic and chemical characteristics, five eucalypt clones and one elephant grass species were indicated for pulp production and biorefinery application. The results of this study indicate the high technological quality ofEucalyptusclones evaluated and indicate that they can be used for biorefinery applications since they have the suitable characteristics. In general, the eucalypt clones are less moist and denser and contain fewer minerals and extraneous materials than the elephant grass species, which make them more attractive for utilization in deconstruction studies aiming at production of bioproducts.
A New Fast Algorithm for Constrained Four-Directional Total Variation Image Denoising Problem
Authors: Liao Fan , Coatrieux Jean Louis , Wu Jiasong , Shu Huazhong
Published: February 2015

A new four-directional total variation (4-TV) model, applicable to isotropic and anisotropic TV functions, is proposed for image denoising. A dual based fast gradient projection algorithm for the constrained 4-TV image denoising problem is also reported which combines the well-known gradient projection and the fast gradient projection methods. Experimental results show that this model provides in most cases a better signal to noise ratio when compared to previous models like the reference TV, the total generalized variation, and the nonlocal total variation.
ℋ∞Performance and Stability Analysis of Linear Systems with Interval Time-Varying Delays and Stochastic Parameter Uncertainties
Authors: Park M. J. , Kwon O. M. , Park Ju H. , Lee S. M. , Cha E. J.
Published: February 2015

This paper deals with the problems ofℋ∞performance and stability analysis for linear systems with interval time-varying delays. It is assumed that the parameter uncertainties are of stochastic properties to represent random change of various environments. By constructing a newly augmented Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional, less conservative criteria of the concerned systems are introduced with the framework of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Four numerical examples are given to show the improvements over the existing ones and the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Portal Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Cohen Ronny , Mallet Thierry , Gale Michael , Soltys Remigiusz , Loarte Pablo
Published: February 2015

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is the blockage or narrowing of the portal vein by a thrombus. It is relatively rare and has been linked with the presence of an underlying liver disease or prothrombotic disorders. We present a case of a young male who presented with vague abdominal symptoms for approximately one week. Imaging revealed the presence of multiple nonocclusive thrombi involving the right portal vein, the splenic vein, and the left renal vein, as well as complete occlusion of the left portal vein and the superior mesenteric vein. We discuss pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and management of both acute and chronic thrombosis. The presence of PVT should be considered as a clue for prothrombotic disorders, liver disease, and other local and general factors that must be carefully investigated. It is hoped that this case report will help increase awareness of the complexity associated with portal vein thrombosis among the medical community.
On Ordinary, Linear q-Difference Equations, with Applications to q-Sato Theory
Authors: Ernst Thomas
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this paper is to develop the theory of ordinary, linear q-difference equations, in particular the homogeneous case; we show that there are many similarities to differential equations. In the second part we study the applications to a q-analogue of Sato theory. The q-Schur polynomials act as basis function, similar to q-Appell polynomials. The Ward q-addition plays a crucial role as operation for the function argument in the matrix q-exponential and for the q-Schur polynomials.
Antiplane Problem of Periodically Stacked Parallel Cracks in an Infinite Orthotropic Plate
Authors: Wu Long , Du Pengcheng
Published: February 2015

The antiplane problem of the periodic parallel cracks in an infinite linear elastic orthotropic composite plate is studied in this paper. The antiplane problem is turned into the boundary value problem of partial differential equation. By constructing proper Westergaard stress function and using the periodicity of the hyperbolic function, the antiplane problem of the periodic parallel cracks degenerates into an algebra problem. Using the complex variable function method and the undetermined coefficients method, as well as with the help of boundary conditions, the boundary value problem of partial differential equation can be solved, and the analytic expressions for stress intensity factor, stress, and displacement near the periodical parallel cracks tip are obtained. When the cracks spacing tends to infinity, the antiplane problem of the periodic parallel cracks degenerates into the case of the antiplane problem of a single central crack.
Nonlocal Peridynamic Modeling and Simulation on Crack Propagation in Concrete Structures
Authors: Huang Dan , Lu Guangda , Liu Yiming
Published: February 2015

An extended peridynamic approach for crack propagation analysis in concrete structures was proposed. In the peridynamic constitutive model, concrete material was described as a series of interacting particles, and the short-range repulsive force and anisotropic behavior of concrete were taken into account in the expression of the interactive bonding force, which was given in terms of classical elastic constants and peridynamic horizon. The damage of material was defined locally at the level of pairwise bond, and the critical stretch of material bond was described as a function of fracture strength in the classical concrete failure theory. The efficiency and accuracy of the proposed model and algorithms were validated by simulating the propagation of mode I and I-II mixed mode cracks in concrete slabs. Furthermore, crack propagation in a double-edge notched concrete beam subjected to four-point load was simulated, in which the experimental observations are captured naturally as a consequence of the solution.
Singular and Degenerate Boundary Value Problems Related to the Electricity Theory
Authors: Boureanu Maria-Magdalena , Matei Andaluzia
Published: February 2015

The present paper draws attention to the weak solvability of a class of singular and degenerate problems with nonlinear boundary conditions. These problems derive from the electricity theory serving as mathematical models for physical phenomena related to the anisotropic media with “perfect” insulators or “perfect” conductors points. By introducing an appropriate weighted Sobolev space to the mathematical literature, we establish an existence and uniqueness result.
Experimental Investigations on the Dynamic Behaviour of O-Type Wire-Cable Vibration Isolators
Authors: Wang Hong-Xia , Gong Xian-Sheng , Pan Fei , Dang Xue-Jiang
Published: February 2015

A series of periodic loading experiments were carried out on the O-type wire-cable vibration isolators. The isolators were loaded under shear, roll, and tension-compression loadings. When subjected to shear and roll loads, the restoring force-deformation curves generated by the isolators formed symmetric hysteresis loops. However, when the isolators were loaded with tension-compression loads, the isolator produced asymmetric hysteresis loops. It is found through the experiment that the dynamic characteristics of the isolator are determined by the loading amplitude as well as the geometric parameters of the isolator while they are almost independent of loading frequency within the testing frequency range. Based on the experimental data, the dynamic response of the isolator was modeled by a modified normalized Bouc-Wen model. The parameters of this model were identified through an identification procedure that does not involve any nonlinear iterative algorithms. Comparison between the identification results and the experimental data suggests that the identification method is effective. With the model and the identified parameters, the frequency response of an O-type wire-cable vibration isolator-mass system was evaluated. Typical nonlinear response behaviors were found when the isolator was used in tension-compression mode while the response appears to be similar to that of a linear system when the isolator was used in shear and roll mode.
Scenarios Approach to the Electromagnetic Exposure: The Case Study of a Train Compartment
Authors: Paffi A. , Apollonio F. , Pinto R. , Liberti M.
Published: February 2015

Previous studies identified the train compartment as the place where people can experience the highest exposure levels (still below the international guideline limits) to electromagnetic fields in the radiofrequency range. Here a possible scenario of a train compartment has been reproduced and characterized, both numerically and experimentally. A good agreement between the simulated electric field distributions and measurements has been found. Results indicate that the higher values of exposure in specific positions inside the train compartment depend on the number of active cell phones, the bad coverage condition, the cell orientation, and the presence of metallic walls. This study shows that the proposed approach, based on the scenarios characterization, may efficiently support the assessment of the individual electromagnetic exposure.
A Lethal Complication after Transarterial Chemoembolization with Drug-Eluting Beads for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Toro Adriana , Bertino Gaetano , Arcerito Maria Concetta , Mannnino Maurizio , Ardiri Annalisa , Patane’ Domenico , Di Carlo Isidoro
Published: February 2015

Background. The current standard of care for patients with large or multinodular noninvasive hepatocellular carcinoma is conventional transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). TACE may also be performed with drug-eluting beads, but serious complications of this procedure have been reported.Methods. Aim of this report is to present a patient affected by multifocal HCC who underwent TACE with drug-eluting bead (DEB-TACE).Results. Following the procedure the patient developed a hepatic abscess and biliobronchial fistula resulting in adult respiratory distress syndrome and death.Conclusion. We speculate that DEB-TACE has a prolonged effect on the tumor and the surrounding liver, resulting in progressive enlargement of the necrotic area. This activity that can extend to the surrounding healthy hepatic tissues may continue indefinitely.
Calcium Silicate-Based Cements Associated with Micro- and Nanoparticle Radiopacifiers: Physicochemical Properties and Bioactivity
Authors: Bosso-Martelo Roberta , Guerreiro-Tanomaru Juliane Maria , Viapiana Raqueli , Berbert Fábio Luis Camargo Vilella , Basso Bernardi Maria Inês , Tanomaru-Filho Mario
Published: February 2015

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties and bioactivity of two formulations of calcium silicate-based cements containing additives (CSCM) or resin (CSCR), associated with radiopacifying agents zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and niobium oxide (Nb2O5) as micro- and nanoparticles; calcium tungstate (CaWO4); and bismuth oxide (Bi2O3). MTA Angelus was used as control. Methods. Surface features and bioactivity were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and the chemical composition by energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS-X). Results. CSCM and CSCR presented larger particle sizes than MTA. Hydroxyapatite deposits were found on the surface of some materials, especially when associated with the radiopacifier with ZrO2 nanoparticles. All the cements presented calcium, silicon, and aluminum in their composition. Conclusion. Both calcium silicate-based cements presented composition and bioactivity similar to MTA when associated with the radiopacifiers evaluated.
Preparation and Sealing Processing of Sodium Alginate Based Blending Film
Authors: Wang Liqiang , Campanella Osvaldo , Patel Bhavesh , Lu Lixin
Published: February 2015

Edible packaging has been successfully used for packaging of low moisture foods such as wrappers. One of the hurdles in the use of edible packaging for moisture rich foods is its ability to successfully seal the package, which is critical due to the lower strength and elastic characteristics of edible films compared to plastic based films. Three important sealing parameters, namely, adhesive concentration, pressure, and temperature during sealing, were investigated to assess sealing performance of the edible film. The edible film was prepared from blend of three polymers (sodium alginate, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, and gelatin) based on previous research work. The seal was evaluated for seal strength and a quadric regression model to predict seal strength as a function of adhesive concentration, pressure, and temperature during sealing was established. The model was statistically significantP<0.05and an optimum combination of sealing parameters was obtained to be 24.4% adhesive concentration, 0.28 MPa pressure, and 153°C temperature. A sealing time of 1 s was used for all samples. All three factors were significant taken individually and interactions of the three factors were also significant (P<0.05or 0.10) except for the interaction between adhesive concentration and sealing temperature.
Bioavailability of Dietary Polyphenols and Gut Microbiota Metabolism: Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Marín Laura , Miguélez Elisa M. , Villar Claudio J. , Lombó Felipe
Published: February 2015

Polyphenolic compounds are plant nutraceuticals showing a huge structural diversity, including chlorogenic acids, hydrolyzable tannins, and flavonoids (flavonols, flavanones, flavan-3-ols, anthocyanidins, isoflavones, and flavones). Most of them occur as glycosylated derivatives in plants and foods. In order to become bioactive at human body, these polyphenols must undergo diverse intestinal transformations, due to the action of digestive enzymes, but also by the action of microbiota metabolism. After elimination of sugar tailoring (generating the corresponding aglycons) and diverse hydroxyl moieties, as well as further backbone reorganizations, the final absorbed compounds enter the portal vein circulation towards liver (where other enzymatic transformations take place) and from there to other organs, including behind the digestive tract or via blood towards urine excretion. During this transit along diverse tissues and organs, they are able to carry out strong antiviral, antibacterial, and antiparasitic activities. This paper revises and discusses these antimicrobial activities of dietary polyphenols and their relevance for human health, shedding light on the importance of polyphenols structure recognition by specific enzymes produced by intestinal microbial taxa.
Rollover Mitigation Controller Development for Three-Wheeled Vehicle Using Active Front Steering
Authors: Azim Raja Amer , Malik Fahad Mumtaz , Syed Waheed ul Haq
Published: February 2015

Three-wheeled vehicles are agile, less complex, but relatively more prone to rollover. The current study focuses on the rollover mitigation control design using active front steering for such vehicles. A lateral load transfer ratio (LLTR) adapted for a three-wheeled platform is presented. Sliding mode control design strategy has been devised which results in pseudo-direct control for roll dynamics of the vehicle. The lag in vehicle roll angle response has been managed using adaptive sliding surface. This concept can be extended for other vehicle configurations. The proposed control scheme is investigated for efficacy using a full vehicle simulation model of CarSim software and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s proposed Fishhook maneuver. The controller is able to limit the rollover propensity even with vehicle parameter uncertainties.
Joint Minimization of Uplink and Downlink Whole-Body Exposure Dose in Indoor Wireless Networks
Authors: Plets D. , Joseph W. , Vanhecke K. , Vermeeren G. , Wiart J. , Aerts S. , Varsier N. , Martens L.
Published: February 2015

The total whole-body exposure dose in indoor wireless networks is minimized. For the first time, indoor wireless networks are designed and simulated for a minimal exposure dose, where both uplink and downlink are considered. The impact of the minimization is numerically assessed for four scenarios: two WiFi configurations with different throughputs, a Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) configuration for phone call traffic, and a Long-Term Evolution (LTE) configuration with a high data rate. Also, the influence of the uplink usage on the total absorbed dose is characterized. Downlink dose reductions of at least 75% are observed when adding more base stations with a lower transmit power. Total dose reductions decrease with increasing uplink usage for WiFi due to the lack of uplink power control but are maintained for LTE and UMTS. Uplink doses become dominant over downlink doses for usages of only a few seconds for WiFi. For UMTS and LTE, an almost continuous uplink usage is required to have a significant effect on the total dose, thanks to the power control mechanism.
Traditional Herbal Formula Oyaksungi-San Inhibits Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Yoo Sae-Rom , Seo Chang-Seob , Shin Hyeun-Kyoo , Jeong Soo-Jin
Published: February 2015

Background. Oyaksungi-san (OYSGS) is a herbal formula that has been used for treating cardiovascular diseases in traditional Asian medicine. Here, we investigated the antiadipogenic effect of OYSGS extract in 3T3-L1 adipose cells.Methods. 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were differentiated into adipocytes with or without OYSGS. After differentiation, we measured Oil Red O staining, glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) activity, leptin production, mRNA, and protein levels of adipogenesis-related factors.Results. OYSGS extract dramatically inhibited intracellular lipid accumulation in the differentiated adipocytes. It also significantly suppressed the (GPDH) activity, triglyceride (TG) content, and leptin production by reducing the expression of adipogenesis-related genes including lipoprotein lipase, fatty acid binding protein 4, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-alpha (C/EBP-α), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ). Furthermore, OYSGS clearly enhanced phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) as well as its substrate acetyl CoA (ACC) carboxylase.Conclusions. Our results demonstrate that OYSGS negatively controls TG accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. We suggest antiadipogenic activity of OYSGS and its potential benefit in preventing obesity.
Enteric Duplication Cyst Located at the Posterior Tongue: A Rare Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Savran Bircan , Kucur Cuneyt , Kocak Cengiz , Ozbay Isa , Metineren Mehmet Huseyin , Karakus Yasin Tugrul
Published: February 2015

The lingual localization of an enteric duplication is extremely rare but may present with respiratory and feeding problems that require emergency intervention. A 7-month-old boy was brought to our clinic with feeding difficulties and tongue swelling. Physical examination showed a cystic lesion located near the left side of the tongue base that caused tongue protrusion to the contralateral side. During surgery, a 3-cm diameter opaque thick-walled cyst was found to be very closely adherent to the base of tongue, which was excised in its entirety. Following surgery, the patient fed during the early postoperative period and no complications were observed other than hypersalivation. On histological examination, a cystic lesion lined with intestinal mucosa and goblet cells was found. We present the rare case of a duplication cyst of the posterior tongue, with a literature review.
Lower Lid Ectropion in Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyun , Xu Li , Li Xiaofang , Li Chunyan , Zhang Haitao
Published: February 2015

We report a case of a lower lid ectropion with ectodermal dysplasia and ectropion blepharoplasty surgery experience. A 14-year-old Han nationality male patient with typical characteristics of hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia presented to our clinic for his right lower lid eversion. The patient was diagnosed as having hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia and underwent an uneventful blepharoplasty surgery. The lower lid maintained normal position during the 10-month follow-up period. Patients with ectodermal dysplasia could firstly visit ophthalmologist for their ectropion and blepharoplasty surgery could be useful for the disease.
Increased Mercury Levels in Patients with Celiac Disease following a Gluten-Free Regimen
Authors: Elli Luca , Rossi Valentina , Conte Dario , Ronchi Anna , Tomba Carolina , Passoni Manuela , Bardella Maria Teresa , Roncoroni Leda , Guzzi Gianpaolo
Published: February 2015

Background and Aim. Although mercury is involved in several immunological diseases, nothing is known about its implication in celiac disease. Our aim was to evaluate blood and urinary levels of mercury in celiac patients.Methods. We prospectively enrolled 30 celiac patients (20 treated with normal duodenal mucosa and 10 untreated with duodenal atrophy) and 20 healthy controls from the same geographic area. Blood and urinary mercury concentrations were measured by means of flow injection inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Enrolled patients underwent dental chart for amalgam fillings and completed a food-frequency questionnaire to evaluate diet and fish intake.Results. Mercury blood/urinary levels were2.4±2.3/1.0±1.4,10.2±6.7/2.2±3.0and3.7±2.7/1.3±1.2in untreated CD, treated CD, and healthy controls, respectively. Resulting mercury levels were significantly higher in celiac patients following a gluten-free diet. No differences were found regarding fish intake and number of amalgam fillings. No demographic or clinical data were significantly associated with mercury levels in biologic samples.Conclusion. Data demonstrate a fourfold increase of mercury blood levels in celiac patients following a gluten-free diet. Further studies are needed to clarify its role in celiac mechanism.
Giant Dissecting Aortic Aneurysm in an Asymptomatic Young Male
Authors: Shah Priyank , Gupta Nishant , Goldfarb Irvin , Shamoon Fayez
Published: February 2015

Giant aortic aneurysm is defined as aneurysm in the aorta greater than 10 cm in diameter. It is a rare finding since most patients will present with complications of dissection or rupture before the size of aneurysm reaches that magnitude. Etiological factors include atherosclerosis, Marfan’s syndrome, giant cell arteritis, tuberculosis, syphilis, HIV-associated vasculitis, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, and medial agenesis. Once diagnosed, prompt surgical intervention is the treatment of choice. Although asymptomatic unruptured giant aortic aneurysm has been reported in the literature, there has not been any case of asymptomatic giant dissecting aortic aneurysm reported in the literature thus far. We report a case of giant dissecting ascending aortic aneurysm in an asymptomatic young male who was referred to our institution for abnormal findings on physical exam.
An Accurate Integral Method for Vibration Signal Based on Feature Information Extraction
Authors: Zhu Yong , Jiang Wanlu , Kong Xiangdong , Zheng Zhi , Hu Haosong
Published: February 2015

After summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of current integral methods, a novel vibration signal integral method based on feature information extraction was proposed. This method took full advantage of the self-adaptive filter characteristic and waveform correction feature of ensemble empirical mode decomposition in dealing with nonlinear and nonstationary signals. This research merged the superiorities of kurtosis, mean square error, energy, and singular value decomposition on signal feature extraction. The values of the four indexes aforementioned were combined into a feature vector. Then, the connotative characteristic components in vibration signal were accurately extracted by Euclidean distance search, and the desired integral signals were precisely reconstructed. With this method, the interference problem of invalid signal such as trend item and noise which plague traditional methods is commendably solved. The great cumulative error from the traditional time-domain integral is effectively overcome. Moreover, the large low-frequency error from the traditional frequency-domain integral is successfully avoided. Comparing with the traditional integral methods, this method is outstanding at removing noise and retaining useful feature information and shows higher accuracy and superiority.
A Novel MADM Approach Based on Fuzzy Cross Entropy with Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Tong Xin , Yu Liying
Published: February 2015

The paper presents a novel multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) approach for the problem with completely unknown attribute weights in the framework of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IVIFS). First, the fuzzy cross entropy and discrimination degree of IVIFS are defied. Subsequently, based on the discrimination degree of IVIFS, a nonlinear programming model to minimize the total deviation of discrimination degrees between alternatives and the positive ideal solution PIS as well as the negative ideal solution (NIS) is constructed to obtain the attribute weights and, then, the weighted discrimination degree. Finally, all the alternatives are ranked according to the relative closeness coefficients using the extended TOPSIS method, and the most desirable alternative is chosen. The proposed approach extends the research method of MADM based on the IVIF cross entropy. Finally, we illustrate the feasibility and validity of the proposed method by two examples.
Cross-lingual Sentiment Lexicon Learning With Bilingual Word Graph Label Propagation
Authors: Gao Dehong , Wei Furu , Li Wenjie , Liu Xiaohua , Zhou Ming
Published: February 2015

In this article we address the task of cross-lingual sentiment lexicon learning, which aims to automatically generate sentiment lexicons for the target languages with available English sentiment lexicons. We formalize the task as a learning problem on a bilingual word graph, in which the intra-language relations among the words in the same language and the inter-language relations among the words between different languages are properly represented. With the words in the English sentiment lexicon as seeds, we propose a bilingual word graph label propagation approach to induce sentiment polarities of the unlabeled words in the target language. Particularly, we show that both synonym and antonym word relations can be used to build the intra-language relation, and that the word alignment information derived from bilingual parallel sentences can be effectively leveraged to build the inter-language relation. The evaluation of Chinese sentiment lexicon learning shows that the proposed approach outperforms existing approaches in both precision and recall. Experiments conducted on the NTCIR data set further demonstrate the effectiveness of the learned sentiment lexicon in sentence-level sentiment classification.
When the Whole Is Not Greater Than the Combination of Its Parts: A “Decompositional” Look at Compositional Distributional Semantics
Authors: Zanzotto Fabio Massimo , Ferrone Lorenzo , Baroni Marco
Published: February 2015

Distributional semantics has been extended to phrases and sentences by means of composition operations. We look at how these operations affect similarity measurements, showing that similarity equations of an important class of composition methods can be decomposed into operations performed on the subparts of the input phrases. This establishes a strong link between these models and convolution kernels.
Spelling Error Patterns in Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Gimenes Priscila A. , Roman Norton T. , Carvalho Ariadne M.
Published: February 2015

Fifty years after Damerau set up his statistics for the distribution of errors in typed texts, his findings are still used in a range of different languages. Because these statistics were derived from texts in English, the question of whether they actually apply to other languages has been raised. We address this issue through the analysis of a set of typed texts in Brazilian Portuguese, deriving statistics tailored to this language. Results show that diacritical marks play a major role, as indicated by the frequency of mistakes involving them, thereby rendering Damerau's original findings mostly unfit for spelling correction systems, although still holding them useful, should one set aside such marks. Furthermore, a comparison between these results and those published for Spanish show no statistically significant differences between both languages—an indication that the distribution of spelling errors depends on the adopted character set rather than the language itself.