bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Combined Softening and Hardening Mechanism for Low Frequency Human Motion Energy Harvesting Application
Authors: Suhaimi Khalis , Ramlan Roszaidi , Putra Azma
Published: September 2014

This paper concerns the mechanism for harvesting energy from human body motion. The vibration signal from human body motion during walking and jogging was first measured using 3-axes vibration recorder placed at various places on the human body. The measured signal was then processed using Fourier series to investigate its frequency content. A mechanism was proposed to harvest the energy from the low frequency-low amplitude human motion. This mechanism consists of the combined nonlinear hardening and softening mechanism which was aimed at widening the bandwidth as well as amplifying the low human motion frequency. This was realized by using a translation-to-rotary mechanism which converts the translation motion of the human motion into the rotational motion. The nonlinearity in the system was realized by introducing a winding spring stiffness and the magnetic stiffness. Quasi-static and dynamic measurement were conducted to investigate the performance of the mechanism. The results show that, with the right degree of nonlinearity, the two modes can be combined together to produce a wide flat response. For the frequency amplification, the mechanism manages to increase the frequency by around 8 times in terms of rotational speed.
An Innovative Application of a Solar Storage Wall Combined with the Low-Temperature Organic Rankine Cycle
Authors: Hung Tzu-Chen , Lee Duen-Sheng , Lin Jaw-Ren
Published: September 2014

The objective of this study is to collect energy on the waste heat from air produced by solar ventilation systems. This heat used for electricity generation by an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system was implemented. The advantages of this method include the use of existing building’s wall, and it also provides the region of energy scarcity for reference. This is also an innovative method, and the results will contribute to the efforts made toward improving the design of solar ventilation in the field of solar thermal engineering. In addition, ORC system would help generate electricity and build a low-carbon building. This study considered several critical parameters such as length of the airflow channel, intensity of solar radiation, pattern of the absorber plate, stagnant air layer, and operating conditions. The simulation results show that the highest outlet temperature and heat collecting efficiency of solar ventilation system are about 120°C and 60%, respectively. The measured ORC efficiency of the system was 6.2%. The proposed method is feasible for the waste heat from air produced by ventilation systems.
A Hybrid Intelligent Method of Predicting Stock Returns
Authors: Rather Akhter Mohiuddin
Published: September 2014

This paper proposes a novel method for predicting stock returns by means of a hybrid intelligent model. Initially predictions are obtained by a linear model, and thereby prediction errors are collected and fed into a recurrent neural network which is actually an autoregressive moving reference neural network. Recurrent neural network results in minimized prediction errors because of nonlinear processing and also because of its configuration. These prediction errors are used to obtain final predictions by summation method as well as by multiplication method. The proposed model is thus hybrid of both a linear and a nonlinear model. The model has been tested on stock data obtained from National Stock Exchange of India. The results indicate that the proposed model can be a promising approach in predicting future stock movements.
New Role of Thermal Mapping in Winter Maintenance with Principal Components Analysis
Authors: Marchetti Mario , Chapman Lee , Khalifa Abderrahmen , Buès Michel
Published: September 2014

Thermal mapping uses IR thermometry to measure road pavement temperature at a high resolution to identify and to map sections of the road network prone to ice occurrence. However, measurements are time-consuming and ultimately only provide a snapshot of road conditions at the time of the survey. As such, there is a need for surveys to be restricted to a series of specific climatic conditions during winter. Typically, five to six surveys are used, but it is questionable whether the full range of atmospheric conditions is adequately covered. This work investigates the role of statistics in adding value to thermal mapping data. Principal components analysis is used to interpolate between individual thermal mapping surveys to build a thermal map (or even a road surface temperature forecast), for a wider range of climatic conditions than that permitted by traditional surveys. The results indicate that when this approach is used, fewer thermal mapping surveys are actually required. Furthermore, comparisons with numerical models indicate that this approach could yield a suitable verification method for the spatial component of road weather forecasts—a key issue currently in winter road maintenance.
Spontaneous Cervical Intradural Disc Herniation Associated with Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament
Authors: Wang Dachuan , Wang Haifeng , Shen Wun-Jer
Published: September 2014

Intradural herniation of a cervical disc is rare; less than 35 cases have been reported to date. A 52-year-old man with preexisting ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament developed severe neck pain with Lt hemiparesis while asleep. Neurological exam was consistent with Brown-Séquard syndrome. Magnetic resonance images showed a C5-6 herniated disc that was adjacent to the ossified ligament and indenting the cord. The mass was surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid signal intensity margin, and caudally the ventral dura line appears divided into two, consistent with the “Y-sign” described by Sasaji et al. Cord edema were noted. Because of preexisting canal stenosis and spinal cord at risk, a laminoplasty was performed, followed by an anterior C6 corpectomy. Spot-weld type adhesions of the posterior longitudinal ligament to the dura was noted, along with a longitudinal tear in the dura. An intradural extra-arachnoid fragment of herniated disc was removed. Clinical exam at 6 months after surgery revealed normal muscle strength but persistent mild paresthesias. It is difficult to make a definite diagnosis of intradural herniation preoperatively; however, the clinical findings and radiographic signs mentioned above are suggestive and should alert the surgeon to look for an intradural fragment.
Dose-Dense Epirubicin and Cyclophosphamide Followed by Weekly Paclitaxel in Node-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Mirzaei Hamid Reza , Nasrollahi Fatemeh , Mohammadi Yeganeh Ladan , Jafari Naeini Sepideh , Bikdeli Pegah , Hajian Parastoo
Published: September 2014

Background. Adding taxanes to anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy has shown significant improvement in node-positive breast cancer patients but the optimal dose schedule has still remained undetermined.
Objectives. The feasibility of dose-dense epirubicin in combination with cyclophosphamide (EC) followed by weekly paclitaxel as adjuvant chemotherapy in node-positive breast cancer patients was investigated.
Methods. All patients were treated with epirubicin (100 mg/m2) and cyclophosphamide (600 mg/m2) every two weeks for four cycles with daily Pegfilgrastim (G-CSF) that was administered 3–10 days after each cycle of epirubicin and cyclophosphamide infusion which followed by (80 mg/m2) paclitaxel for twelve consecutive weeks.
Results. Sixty consecutive patients were analyzed, of whom 57 patients (95%) completed the regimen and no case of toxicity-related death was observed. Grade 3/4 hematologic toxicity was uncommon and the most common grade 3/4 nonhematological adverse event was neuropathy disorders. Conclusions. Dose-dense epirubicin and cyclophosphamide followed by weekly paclitaxel with G-CSF support is a well-tolerated and feasible regimen in node-positive breast cancer patients without serious complications.
Nucleotides Regulate Secretion of the Inflammatory Chemokine CCL2 from Human Macrophages and Monocytes
Authors: Higgins K. R. , Kovacevic W. , Stokes L.
Published: September 2014

CCL2 is an important inflammatory chemokine involved in monocyte recruitment to inflamed tissues. The extracellular nucleotide signalling molecules UTP and ATP acting via the P2Y2 receptor are known to induce CCL2 secretion in macrophages. We confirmed this in the human THP-1 monocytic cell line showing that UTP is as efficient as LPS at inducing CCL2 at early time points (2–6 hours). Expression and calcium mobilisation experiments confirmed the presence of functional P2Y2 receptors on THP-1 cells. UTP stimulation of human peripheral CD14+ monocytes showed low responses to LPS (4-hour stimulation) but a significant increase above background following 6 hours of treatment. The response to UTP in human monocytes was variable and required stimulation >6 hours. With such variability in response we looked for single nucleotide polymorphisms in P2RY2 that could affect the functional response. Sequencing of P2RY2 from THP-1 cells revealed the presence of a single nucleotide polymorphism altering amino acid 312 from arginine to serine (rs3741156). This polymorphism is relatively common at a frequency of 0.276 (n=404subjects). Finally, we investigated CCL2 secretion in response to LPS or UTP in human macrophages expressing 312Arg-P2Y2 or 312Ser-P2Y2 where only the latter exhibited significant UTP-induced CCL2 secretion (n=5donors per group).
Atmospheric Error Correction of the Laser Beam Ranging
Authors: Saydi J. , Lotfalian A. , Abedi M. , Khalilzadeh J. , Saghafifar H.
Published: September 2014

Atmospheric models based on surface measurements of pressure, temperature, and relative humidity have been used to increase the laser ranging accuracy by ray tracing. Atmospheric refraction can cause significant errors in laser ranging systems. Through the present research, the atmospheric effects on the laser beam were investigated by using the principles of laser ranging. Atmospheric correction was calculated for 0.532, 1.3, and 10.6 micron wavelengths through the weather conditions of Tehran, Isfahan, and Bushehr in Iran since March 2012 to March 2013. Through the present research the atmospheric correction was computed for meteorological data in base of monthly mean. Of course, the meteorological data were received from meteorological stations in Tehran, Isfahan, and Bushehr. Atmospheric correction was calculated for 11, 100, and 200 kilometers laser beam propagations under 30°, 60°, and 90° rising angles for each propagation. The results of the study showed that in the same months and beam emission angles, the atmospheric correction was most accurate for 10.6 micron wavelength. The laser ranging error was decreased by increasing the laser emission angle. The atmospheric correction with two Marini-Murray and Mendes-Pavlis models for 0.532 nm was compared.
A Comparison of a Standard Genetic Algorithm with a Hybrid Genetic Algorithm Applied to Cell Formation Problem
Authors: Javaid Waqas , Tariq Adnan , Hussain Iftikhar
Published: September 2014

Though there are a number of benefits associated with cellular manufacturing systems, its implementation (identification of part families and corresponding machine groups) for real life problems is still a challenging task. To handle the complexity of optimizing multiple objectives and larger size of the problem, most of the researchers in the past two decades or so have focused on developing genetic algorithm (GA) based techniques. Recently this trend has shifted from standard GA to hybrid GA (HGA) based approaches in the quest for greater effectiveness as far as convergence on to the optimum solution is concerned. In order to prove the point, that HGAs possess better convergence abilities than standard GAs, a methodology, initially based on standard GA and later on hybridized with a local search heuristic (LSH), has been developed during this research. Computational experience shows that HGA maintains its accuracy level with increase in problem size, whereas standard GA looses its effectiveness as the problem size grows.
Reliability and Validity of the Nigerian (Hausa) Version of the Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) 3.0 Index
Authors: Mohammad Ashiru Hamza , Al-Sadat Nabilla , Siew Yim Loh , Chinna Karuthan
Published: September 2014

This study aims to test the translated Hausa version of the stroke impact scale SIS (3.0) and further evaluate its psychometric properties. The SIS 3.0 was translated from English into Hausa and was tested for its reliability and validity on a stratified random sample adult stroke survivors attending rehabilitation services at stroke referral hospitals in Kano, Nigeria. Psychometric analysis of the Hausa-SIS 3.0 involved face, content, criterion, and construct validity tests as well as internal and test-retest reliability. In reliability analyses, the Cronbach’s alpha values for the items in Strength, Hand function, Mobility, ADL/IADL, Memory and thinking, Communication, Emotion, and Social participation domains were 0.80, 0.92, 0.90, 0.78, 0.84, 0.89, 0.58, and 0.74, respectively. There are 8 domains in stroke impact scale 3.0 in confirmatory factory analysis; some of the items in the Hausa-SIS questionnaire have to be dropped due to lack of discriminate validity. In the final analysis, a parsimonious model was obtained with two items per construct for the 8 constructs (Chi-square/df<3, TLI and CFI>0.9, and RMSEA<0.08). Cross validation with 1000 bootstrap samples gave a satisfactory result (P = 0.011). In conclusion, the shorter 16-item Hausa-SIS seems to measure adequately the QOL outcomes in the 8 domains.
Four-Dimensional Computed Tomography Based Respiratory-Gated Radiotherapy with Respiratory Guidance System: Analysis of Respiratory Signals and Dosimetric Comparison
Authors: Lee Jung Ae , Kim Chul Yong , Yang Dae Sik , Yoon Won Sup , Park Young Je , Lee Suk , Kim Young Bum
Published: September 2014

Purpose. To investigate the effectiveness of respiratory guidance system in 4-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) based respiratory-gated radiation therapy (RGRT) by comparing respiratory signals and dosimetric analysis of treatment plans.Methods. The respiratory amplitude and period of the free, the audio device-guided, and the complex system-guided breathing were evaluated in eleven patients with lung or liver cancers. The dosimetric parameters were assessed by comparing free breathing CT plan and 4DCT-based 30–70% maximal intensity projection (MIP) plan.Results. The use of complex system-guided breathing showed significantly less variation in respiratory amplitude and period compared to the free or audio-guided breathing regarding the root mean square errors (RMSE) of full inspiration (P=0.031), full expiration (P=0.007), and period (P=0.007). The dosimetric parameters includingV5 Gy,V10 Gy,V20 Gy,V30 Gy,V40 Gy, andV50 Gyof normal liver or lung in 4DCT MIP plan were superior over free breathing CT plan.Conclusions. The reproducibility and regularity of respiratory amplitude and period were significantly improved with the complex system-guided breathing compared to the free or the audio-guided breathing. In addition, the treatment plan based on the 4D CT-based MIP images acquired with the complex system guided breathing showed better normal tissue sparing than that on the free breathing CT.
Efficiency Enhancement of Nanoporous Silicon/Polycrystalline-Silicon Solar Cells by Application of Trenched Electrodes
Authors: Wu Kuen-Hsien , Tang Chia-Chun
Published: September 2014

Trenched electrodes were proposed to enhance the short-circuit current and conversion efficiency of polycrystalline-silicon (poly-Si) solar cells with nanoporous silicon (NPS) surface layers. NPS films that served as textured surface layers were firstly prepared on heavily doped p+-type (100) poly-Si wafers by anodic etching process. Interdigitated trenches were formed in the NPS layers by a reactive-ion-etch (RIE) process and Cr/Al double-layered metal was then deposited to fill the trenches and construct trenched-electrode-contacts (TEC’s). Cells with TEC structures (called “TEC cells”) obtained 5.5 times higher short-circuit current than that of cells with planar electrode contacts (called “non-TEC cells”). Most significantly, a TEC cell achieved 8 times higher conversion efficiency than that of a non-TEC cell. The enhanced short-circuit current and conversion efficiency in TEC cells were ascribed to the reduced overall series resistance of devices. In a TEC cell, trenched electrodes provided photocurrent flowing routes that directly access the poly-Si substrates without passing through the high resistive NPS layers. Therefore, the application of NPS surface layers with trenched electrodes is a novel approach to development of highly efficient poly-Si solar cells.
Variation in Anatomical Position of Vermiform Appendix among Iranian Population: An Old Issue Which Has Not Lost Its Importance
Authors: Ghorbani Ahmad , Forouzesh Mehdi , Kazemifar Amir Mohammad
Published: September 2014

Vermiform appendix has diverse anatomical positions, lengths, and conditions of mesoappendix. Knowing the exact anatomical position of vermiform appendix is important in view of surgeons for on-time diagnosis and management of acute appendicitis. The aim of present study is determination of these characteristics of vermiform appendix among Iranian population. The present study was conducted on 200 bodies, selected from the dead bodies that had been referred to local bureau of legal medicine, Zenjan province, Iran, for medicolegal autopsy since 21 Mar 2010 to 21 Mar 2011. According to the results, the anatomical positions of the appendix were pelvic, subcecal, retroileal, retrocecal, ectopic, and preileal in 55.8%, 19%, 12.5%, 7%, 4.2%, and 1.5% of the bodies, respectively. The mean length of vermiform appendix was 91.2 mm and 80.3 mm in men and women, respectively. Mesoappendix was complete in 79.5% of the bodies. No association was found between sex and anatomical position of vermiform appendix. Anterior anatomical position was the most common position for vermiform appendix. It is inconsistent with most related reports from western countries. It might be possible that some factors, such as race, geographical changes, and dietary habits, play roles in determining the position of vermiform appendix.
Economic Impact of NMMO Pretreatment on Ethanol and Biogas Production from Pinewood
Authors: Shafiei Marzieh , Karimi Keikhosro , Zilouei Hamid , Taherzadeh Mohammad J.
Published: September 2014

Processes for ethanol and biogas (scenario 1) and biomethane (scenario 2) production from pinewood improved by N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide (NMMO) pretreatment were developed and simulated by Aspen plus. These processes were compared with two processes using steam explosion instead of NMMO pretreatment ethanol (scenario 3) and biomethane (scenario 4) production, and the economies of all processes were evaluated by Aspen Process Economic Analyzer. Gasoline equivalent prices of the products including 25% value added tax (VAT) and selling and distribution expenses for scenarios 1 to 4 were, respectively, 1.40, 1.20, 1.24, and 1.04€/l, which are lower than gasoline price. The profitability indexes for scenarios 1 to 4 were 1.14, 0.93, 1.16, and 0.96, respectively. Despite the lower manufacturing costs of biomethane, the profitability indexes of these processes were lower than those of the bioethanol processes, because of higher capital requirements. The results showed that taxing rule is an effective parameter on the economy of the biofuels. The gasoline equivalent prices of the biofuels were 15–37% lower than gasoline; however, 37% of the gasoline price contributes to energy and carbon dioxide tax which are not included in the prices of biofuels based on the Swedish taxation rules.
Pathogenic Roles of the Carotid Body Inflammation in Sleep Apnea
Authors: Fung Man Lung
Published: September 2014

Breathing difficulties in sleep are a hallmark of sleep-disordered breathing commonly observed in patients with sleep disorders. The pathophysiology of sleep apnea is in part due to an augmented activity of the carotid body chemoreflex. Arterial chemoreceptors in the carotid body are sensitive to inflammatory cytokines and immunogenic molecules in the circulation, because cytokine receptors are expressed in the carotid body in experimental animals and human. Intriguingly, proinflammatory cytokines are also locally produced and released in the carotid body. Also, there are significant increases in the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, cytokine receptors, and inflammatory mediators in the carotid body under hypoxic conditions, suggesting an inflammatory response of the carotid body. These upregulated cytokine signaling pathways could enhance the carotid chemoreceptor activity, leading to an overactivity of the chemoreflex adversely effecting breathing instability and autonomic imbalance. This review aims to summarize findings of the literature relevant to inflammation in the carotid body, with highlights on the pathophysiological impact in sleep apnea. It is concluded that local inflammation in the carotid body plays a pathogenic role in sleep apnea, which could potentially be a therapeutic target for the treatment of the pathophysiological consequence of sleep apnea.
Primary Tubercular Chest Wall Abscess in a Young Immunocompetent Male
Authors: Sharma Shweta , Mahajan R. K. , Myneedu V. P. , Sharma B. B. , Duggal Nandini
Published: September 2014

Chest wall tuberculosis is a rare entity especially in an immunocompetent patient. Infection may result from direct inoculation of the organisms or hematogenous spread from some underlying pathology. Infected lymph nodes may also transfer the bacilli through lymphatic route. Chest wall tuberculosis may resemble a pyogenic abscess or tumour and entertaining the possibility of tubercular etiology remains a clinical challenge unless there are compelling reasons of suspicion. In tuberculosis endemic countries like India, all the abscesses indolent to routine treatment need investigation to rule out mycobacterial causes. We present here a case of chest wall tuberculosis where infection was localized to skin only and, in the absence of any evidence of specific site, it appears to be a case of primary involvement.
FinFETs: From Devices to Architectures
Authors: Bhattacharya Debajit , Jha Niraj K.
Published: September 2014

Since Moore’s law driven scaling of planar MOSFETs
faces formidable challenges in the nanometer regime, FinFETs and Trigate FETs have emerged as their successors. Owing
to the presence of multiple (two/three) gates, FinFETs/Trigate
FETs are able to tackle short-channel effects (SCEs) better than
conventional planar MOSFETs at deeply scaled technology nodes
and thus enable continued transistor scaling. In this paper, we
review research on FinFETs from the bottommost device level
to the topmost architecture level. We survey different types of
FinFETs, various possible FinFET asymmetries and their impact,
and novel logic-level and architecture-level tradeoffs offered by
FinFETs. We also review analysis and optimization tools that
are available for characterizing FinFET devices, circuits, and
architectures.
Efficacy of Autologous Bone Marrow Concentrate for Knee Osteoarthritis with and without Adipose Graft
Authors: Centeno Christopher , Pitts John , Al-Sayegh Hasan , Freeman Michael
Published: September 2014

Introduction.We investigated the use of autologous bone marrow concentrate (BMC) with and without an adipose graft, for treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA).Methods.Treatment registry data for patients who underwent BMC procedures with and without an adipose graft were analyzed. Pre- and posttreatment outcomes of interest included the lower extremity functional scale (LEFS), the numerical pain scale (NPS), and a subjective percentage improvement rating. Multivariate analyses were performed to examine the effects of treatment type adjusting for potential confounding factors. The frequency and type of adverse events (AE) were also examined.Results.840 procedures were performed, 616 without and 224 with adipose graft. The mean LEFS score increased by 7.9 and 9.8 in the two groups (out of 80), respectively, and the mean NPS score decreased from 4 to 2.6 and from 4.3 to 3 in the two groups, respectively. AE rates were 6% and 8.9% in the two groups, respectively. Although pre- and posttreatment improvements were statistically significant, the differences between the groups were not.Conclusion.BMC injections for knee OA showed encouraging outcomes and a low rate of AEs. Addition of an adipose graft to the BMC did not provide a detectible benefit over BMC alone.
Preparation of Stable ZrB2-SiC-B4C Aqueous Suspension for Composite Based Coating: Effect of Solid Content and Dispersant on Stability
Authors: Mashadi Mehri , Mohammadijoo Mohsen , Honarkar Alireza , Naderi Khorshidi Zeinab
Published: September 2014

ZrB2-SiC-B4C aqueous suspension has been prepared using poly(ethyleneimine) as a dispersant. Since increasing the solid content of suspension leads to high compaction and consequently low porosities through final coat, the effect of solid content has been studied. The dispersant and solid content were changed in the range of 0.3–1.5 wt.% and 45–55 vol.%, respectively, to assess the optimal conditions effect on stability and characteristics of suspension. Results of zeta potential measurements and rheological analysis at pH 7.8 showed that the composite suspension including 45 vol.% solid content and 1.5 wt.% dispersant was in stable state.
Optimization of Cat’s Whiskers Tea (Orthosiphon stamineus) Using Supercritical Carbon Dioxide and Selective Chemotherapeutic Potential against Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Al-Suede Fouad Saleih R. , Khadeer Ahamed Mohamed B. , Abdul Majid Aman S. , Baharetha Hussin M. , Hassan Loiy E. A. , Kadir Mohd Omar A. , Nassar Zeyad D. , Abdul Majid Amin M. S.
Published: September 2014

Cat’s whiskers (Orthosiphon stamineus) leaves extracts were prepared using supercritical CO2 (SC‐CO2) with full factorial design to determine the optimum extraction parameters. Nine extracts were obtained by varying pressure, temperature, and time. The extracts were analysed using FTIR, UV‐Vis, and GC‐MS. Cytotoxicity of the extracts was evaluated on human (colorectal, breast, and prostate) cancer and normal fibroblast cells. Moderate pressure (31.1 MPa) and temperature (60°C) were recorded as optimum extraction conditions with high yield (1.74%) of the extract (B2) at 60 min extraction time. The optimized extract (B2) displayed selective cytotoxicity against prostate cancer (PC3) cells (IC50 28 µg/mL) and significant antioxidant activity (IC50 42.8 µg/mL). Elevated levels of caspases 3/7 and 9 in B2‐treated PC3 cells suggest the induction of apoptosis through nuclear and mitochondrial pathways. Hoechst and rhodamine assays confirmed the nuclear condensation and disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential in the cells. B2 also demonstrated inhibitory effects on motility and colonies of PC3 cells at its subcytotoxic concentrations. It is noteworthy that B2 displayed negligible toxicity against the normal cells. Chemometric analysis revealed high content of essential oils, hydrocarbon, fatty acids, esters, and aromatic sesquiterpenes in B2. This study highlights the therapeutic potentials of SC‐CO2 extract of cat’s whiskers in targeting prostate carcinoma.
Combined Home Exercise Is More Effective Than Range-of-Motion Home Exercise in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hsieh Lin-Fen , Chuang Chih-Cheng , Tseng Ching-Shiang , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Hsu Wei-Chun , Lin Yi-Jia
Published: September 2014

Home exercise is often recommended for management of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS); however, what kind of home exercise is more beneficial for patients with AS has not been determined yet. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of combined home exercise (COMB) and range-of-motion home exercise (ROM) in patients with AS. Nineteen subjects with AS completed either COMB (n=9) or ROM (n=10) program. The COMB program included range-of-motion, strengthening, and aerobic exercise while the ROM program consisted of daily range-of-motion exercise only. After exercise instruction, subjects in each group performed home exercise for 3 months. Assessment included cardiopulmonary exercise test, pulmonary function test, spinal mobility measurement, chest expansion, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), and other functional ability and laboratory tests. After exercise, the COMB group showed significant improvement in peak oxygen uptake (12.3%,P=0.008) and BASFI (P=0.028), and the changed score between pre- and postexercise data was significantly greater in the COMB group regarding peak oxygen uptake and BASFI. Significant improvement in finger-to-floor distance after 3-month exercise was found only in the COMB group (P=0.033). This study demonstrates that a combined home exercise is more effective than range-of-motion home exercise alone in aerobic capacity and functional ability.
Quantum Calculation for Musk Molecules Infrared Spectra towards the Understanding of Odor
Authors: Maia Elaine Rose , Magalhães Daniela Regina Bazuchi , Lerner Dan A. , Berthomieu Dorothée , Bernassau Jean-Marie
Published: September 2014

It is not clear so far how humans can recognize odor. One of the theories regarding structure-odor relationship is vibrational theory, which claims that odors can be recognized by their modes of vibration. In this sense, this paper brings a novel comparison made between musky and nonmusky molecules, as to check the existence of correlation between their modes on the infrared spectra and odor. For this purpose, sixteen musky odorants were chosen, as well as seven other molecules that are structurally similar to them, but with no musk odor. All of them were submitted to solid theoretical methodology (using molecular mechanics/molecular dynamics and Neglect of Diatomic Differential Overlap Austin Model 1 methods to optimize geometries) as to achieve density functional theory spectra information, with both Gradient Corrected Functional Perdew-Wang generalized-gradient approximation (GGA/PW91) and hybrid Becke, three-parameter, Lee-Yang-Parr (B3LYP) functional. For a proper analysis over spectral data, a mathematical method was designed, generating weighted averages for theoretical frequencies and computing deviations from these averages. It was then devised that musky odorants satisfied demands of the vibrational theory, while nonmusk compounds belonging either to nitro group or to acyclic group failed to fulfill the same criteria.
Effective Parameter Dimension via Bayesian Model Selection in the Inverse Acoustic Scattering Problem
Authors: Palafox Abel , Capistrán Marcos A. , Christen J. Andrés
Published: September 2014

We address a prototype inverse scattering problem in the interface of applied mathematics, statistics, and scientific computing. We pose the acoustic inverse scattering problem in a Bayesian inference perspective and simulate from the posterior distribution using MCMC. The PDE forward map is implemented using high performance computing methods. We implement a standard Bayesian model selection method to estimate an effective number of Fourier coefficients that may be retrieved from noisy data within a standard formulation.
Radius Constants for Functions with the Prescribed Coefficient Bounds
Authors: Ahuja Om P. , Nagpal Sumit , Ravichandran V.
Published: September 2014

For an analytic univalent functionf(z)=z+∑n=2∞anznin the unit disk, it is well-known thatan≤nforn≥2. But the inequalityan≤ndoes not imply the univalence off. This motivated several authors to determine various radii constants associated with the analytic functions having prescribed coefficient bounds. In this paper, a survey of the related work is presented for analytic and harmonic mappings. In addition, we establish a coefficient inequality for sense-preserving harmonic functions to compute the bounds for the radius of univalence, radius of full starlikeness/convexity of orderα  (0≤α<1) for functions with prescribed coefficient bound on the analytic part.
Adjacent Lumbar Disc Herniation after Lumbar Short Spinal Fusion
Authors: Ninomiya Koshi , Iwatsuki Koichi , Ohnishi Yu-ichiro , Ohkawa Toshika , Yoshimine Toshiki
Published: September 2014

A 70-year-old outpatient presented with a chief complaint of sudden left leg motor weakness and sensory disturbance. He had undergone L4/5 posterior interbody fusion with L3–5 posterior fusions for spondylolisthesis 3 years prior, and the screws were removed 1 year later. He has been followed up for 3 years, and there had been no adjacent segment problems before this presentation. Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a large L2/3 disc hernia descending to the L3/4 level. Compared to the initial MRI, this hernia occurred in an “intact” disc among multilevel severely degenerated discs. Right leg paresis and bladder dysfunction appeared a few days after admission. Microscopic lumbar disc herniotomy was performed. The right leg motor weakness improved just after the operation, but the moderate left leg motor weakness and difficulty in urination persisted.
Lung Cancer Stem Cell Lose Their Stemness Default State after Exposure to Microgravity
Authors: Pisanu Maria Elena , Noto Alessia , De Vitis Claudia , Masiello Maria Grazia , Coluccia Pierpaolo , Proietti Sara , Giovagnoli Maria Rosaria , Ricci Alberto , Giarnieri Enrico , Cucina Alessandra , Ciliberto Gennaro , Bizzarri Mariano , Mancini Rita
Published: September 2014

Microgravity influences cell differentiation by modifying the morphogenetic field in which stem cells are embedded. Preliminary data showed indeed that stem cells are committed to selective differentiation when exposed to real or simulated microgravity. Our study provides evidence that a similar event occurs when cancer stem cells (CSCs) are cultured in microgravity. In the same time, a significant increase in apoptosis was recorded: those data point out that microgravity rescues CSCs from their relative quiescent state, inducing CSCs to lose their stemness features, as documented by the decrease in ALDH and the downregulation of both Nanog and Oct-4 genes. Those traits were stably acquired and preserved by CSCs when cells were placed again on a 1 g field. Studies conducted in microgravity on CSCs may improve our understanding of the fundamental role exerted by biophysical forces in cancer cell growth and function.
Analysis of Nucleotide Sequences of the 16S rRNA Gene of NovelEscherichia coliStrains Isolated from Feces of Human and Bali Cattle
Authors: Suardana I Wayan
Published: September 2014

Livestock especially cattle are known as a main reservoir ofEscherichia coliO157:H7. This bacterium is considered as a pathogenic agent characterized by producing toxins, which are familiarly known as Shiga-like toxin-1 (Stx1) and Stx2. The aim of this work was to analyse the novel sequence of the 16S rRNA gene of strains isolated in this study in order to know the phylogenetic relationships between these sequences and those between the sequences of bacteria available in databanks. The results of this analysis showed that the strains KL-48(2) and SM25(1) that originated from human and cattle feces, respectively, are closely related among them and with respect toE. coliEDL 933,E. coliSakai,E. coliATCC 43894,E. coliO111:H-,E. coliO121:H19,E. coliO104:H4, andShigella sonneiwith more than 99% similarity values.
Cytotoxicity of Probiotics from Philippine Commercial Dairy Products on Cancer Cells and the Effect on Expression ofcfosandcjunEarly Apoptotic-Promoting Genes andInterleukin-1βandTumor Necrosis Factor-αProinflammatory Cytokine Genes
Authors: Shyu Peter T. , Oyong Glenn G. , Cabrera Esperanza C.
Published: September 2014

This study determined cytotoxicity of probioticLactobacillusspp. from Philippine dairy products on cancer cells and normal fibroblasts and their effects on expression of early apoptotic-promotingcfos, cjunand proinflammatory cytokineIL-1β,TNF-αgenes. Cultures were from Yakult, Bear Brand Probiotic Drink, Nido3+ Powdered Milk. Filter-sterilized supernatants from cultures ofLactobacillusspp. were evaluated for cytotoxicity to colon cancer cells (HT-29 and HCT116), leukemia cells (THP-1), and normal human dermal fibroblasts (HDFn) using PrestoBlue. Bleomycin was the positive control. Absolute quantification of transcript levels was conducted using qRT-PCR. Cytotoxicity index profiles on HDFn, THP-1 of all probiotic supernatants and negative controls suggest nontoxicity to the cells when compared to bleomycin, whereas all probiotic supernatants were found to be cytotoxic to HT-29 and HCT-116 colon cancer cell lines. Expression ofcfos, cjuntranscripts was significantly upregulated in HT-29 and HCT116 cells treated with probiotic supernatants compared to untreated baseline levels (P<0.05). Expression ofIL-1βandTNF-αby lipopolysaccharide-treated macrophages was significantly downregulated in cells with probiotic supernatants compared to those exposed to MRS medium (P<0.05). Results provide strong support for the role ofLactobacillusspp. studied in anticancer therapy and in prevention of inflammation that may act as precursor to carcinogenesis.
Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Dangguijagyagsan on Serum Lipid Levels and Blood Flow Improvement in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Park In Sil , Lee Hye Won , Ryuk Jin Ah , Ko Byoung Seob
Published: September 2014

Dangguijagyagsan (DJS), a traditional herbal prescription, has long been used to treat menopause‐related symptoms. We identified the cardioprotective effects of an aqueous extract of DJS using an ovariectomized (OVX) and ferric chloride‐ (FeCl‐) induced carotid thrombosis rat model. Female Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats were ovariectomized or Sham‐operated (Sham‐control). The ovariectomized rats were divided into three groups: OVX with saline (OVX‐control), aspirin 30 mg/kg/day (OVX‐ASA), and DJS 100 mg/kg/day (OVX‐DJS). The treatments were administered for 5 weeks. Then, blood samples were collected to analyze the serum lipid levels and platelet aggregation. The topical application of 40% FeCl3 induced intravascular thrombosis, which was used to test thrombotic occlusion and for histological examination. Body weight and the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and LDL‐cholesterol (LDL‐C) increased in the OVX rats. These effects were reduced by ASA and DJS treatment. In addition, ASA and DJS treatment significantly inhibited platelet aggregation. These treatments also increased time to occlusion and decreased both thrombus size and the presence of collagen fibers in surrounding vessel walls compared with the Sham‐control and OVX‐control groups. These results suggest that DJS has beneficial effects in terms of preventing cardiovascular disease in menopausal woman because it can reduce the serum lipid levels and improve blood flow by inhibiting platelet aggregation and thrombus formation.
Optimized K‐Means Algorithm
Authors: Belhaouari Samir Brahim , Ahmed Shahnawaz , Mansour Samer
Published: September 2014

The localization of the region of interest (ROI), which contains the face, is the first step
in any automatic recognition system, which is a special case of the face detection. However, face
localization from input image is a challenging task due to possible variations in location, scale, pose,
occlusion, illumination, facial expressions, and clutter background. In this paper we introduce a new
optimized k‐means algorithm that finds the optimal centers for each cluster which corresponds to the
global minimum of the k‐means cluster. This method was tested to locate the faces in the input image
based on image segmentation. It separates the input image into two classes: faces and nonfaces. To
evaluate the proposed algorithm, MIT‐CBCL, BioID, and Caltech datasets are used. The results show
significant localization accuracy.
Liquid Sloshing in a Horizontal Circular Container with Eccentric Tube under External Excitation
Authors: Nezami Mohammad , Mohammadi Mohammad Mehdi , Oveisi Atta
Published: September 2014

Appropriate conformal mapping transformation in combination with the linear potential theory is employed to develop mathematical model for two-dimensional sloshing in horizontal circular cylindrical containers with overall eccentric hole. The tube-type tank is filled with inviscid incompressible fluid up to its half depth and subjected to lateral accelerations. A ramp-step excitation encountered in a road turning maneuver as well as real seismic event is used to simulate the lateral acceleration excitation. The resulting linear sets of ordinary differential equations are truncated and then solved numerically by employing Laplace transform technique followed by Durbin’s numerical inversion pattern. The effects of excitation input time, eccentricity, and radii ratio on the hydrodynamic responses and suppression of the induced destabilizing lateral forces are examined. Limiting cases are considered and good agreements with available analytic and numerical solutions as well as the simulations performed by using a commercial FEM software package are obtained.
Methodology for Supply Chain Integration: A Case Study in the Artisan Industry of Footwear
Authors: Pérez-Gallardo Jorge Raúl , Hernández-Vera Beatriz , Moras Sánchez Constantino Gerardo , Aguilar Lasserre Alberto Alfonso , Posada-Gómez Rubén , Juárez-Martínez Ulises , Alor-Hernández Giner
Published: September 2014

The supply chain is a major issue in a global market. The efficient relationship between supplier‐producer‐retailer conforms the perfect combination to achieve a high level of competitiveness according to the needs of increasingly demanding and changing markets. The difficulty of synchronizing the members within the SC is related to the inherent uncertain factors. This paper proposes a methodology for integrating the supply chain that can be applied in any type of business. To demonstrate its relevance, a case study is performed at a handmade shoe company. An improved demand forecasting, an optimal balanced production line, a proper inventory management of raw materials, and an efficient calculation of the delivery time to the customer represent some of the main results.
Immunological Aspects of Acute and Recurrent Herpes Simplex Keratitis
Authors: Rolinski Jacek , Hus Iwona
Published: September 2014

Herpes simplex keratitis (HSK) belongs to the major causes of visual morbidity worldwide and available methods of treatment remain unsatisfactory. Primary infection occurs usually early in life and is often asymptomatic. Chronic visual impairment and visual loss are caused by corneal scaring, thinning, and vascularization connected with recurrent HSV infections. The pathogenesis of herpetic keratitis is complex and is still not fully understood. According to the current knowledge, corneal scarring and vascularization are the result of chronic inflammatory reaction against HSV antigens. In this review we discuss the role of innate and adaptive immunities in acute and recurrent HSV ocular infection and present the potential future targets for novel therapeutical options based on immune interventions.
A Comparative Study between Karydakis Flap Reconstruction and Double Z-Plasty in Patients with Sacrococcygeal Pilonidal Disease
Authors: Kayal Ankit , Hussain Akhlak , Choudhary Anil , Meghwal Ashok
Published: September 2014

The most difficult problems that follow surgery for pilonidal disease are persistent unhealed midline wound and recurrence. Various innovations were proposed to deal with these problems. The adipocutaneous flap of Karydakis was devised to shift the natal cleft,
while Z-plasty involves fasciocutaneous flap. The present prospective randomized trial was conducted on 50 cases of symptomatic or recurrent pilonidal sinuses divided randomly into two equal groups undergoing Karydakis procedure and Z-plasty. The duration of hospitalization for Karydakis procedure was found significantly lesser than that for double Z-plasty (P<0.001). Similar observations are obtained for duration of wound healing (P<0.001), work off period (P<0.001), and the duration of presence of significant pain postoperatively (P<0.001). The overall complications were more in double Z-plasty. Recurrence developed in 32% of the cases in double Z-plasty group comparable to no recurrence seen in Karydakis procedure. Thus, Karydakis flap was found superior to double Z-plasty having less seroma formation, no local hematoma, and no flap necrosis. Statistically, this comparison was highly significant (P<0.001). Karydakis flap has some added advantages over double Z-plasty technique like keeping scar away from the midline and flattening of the natal cleft, thus reducing local recurrence rates.
Epigallocatechin Gallate Attenuates Proliferation and Oxidative Stress in Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Induced by Interleukin-1βvia Heme Oxygenase-1
Authors: Liu Po-Len , Liu Jung-Tung , Kuo Hsuan-Fu , Chong Inn-Wen , Hsieh Chong-Chao
Published: September 2014

Proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) triggered by inflammatory stimuli and oxidative stress contributes importantly to atherogenesis. The association of green tea consumption with cardiovascular protection has been well documented in epidemiological observations, however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of the most active green tea catechin derivative, (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), in human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs), focusing particularly on the role of a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidative enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). We found that pretreatment of EGCG dose- and time-dependently induced HO-1 protein levels in HASMCs. EGCG inhibited interleukin- (IL-)1β-induced HASMC proliferation and oxidative stress in a dose-dependent manner. The HO-1 inducer CoPPIX decreased IL-1β-induced cell proliferation, whereas the HO-1 enzyme inhibitor ZnPPIX significantly reversed EGCG-caused growth inhibition in IL-1β-treated HASMCs. At the molecular level, EGCG treatment significantly activated nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) transcription activities. These results suggest that EGCG might serve as a complementary and alternative medicine in the treatment of these pathologies by inducing HO-1 expression and subsequently decreasing VSMC proliferation.
Mycotoxin Analysis: New Proposals for Sample Treatment
Authors: Arroyo-Manzanares Natalia , Huertas-Pérez José F. , García-Campaña Ana M. , Gámiz-Gracia Laura
Published: September 2014

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by different fungi, with different chemical structures. Mycotoxins contaminate food, feed, or raw materials used in their production and cause diseases and disorders in humans and livestock. Because of their great variety of toxic effects and their extreme heat resistance, the presence of mycotoxins in food and feed is considered a high risk to human and animal health. In order to ensure food quality and health consumers, European legislation has set maximum contents of some mycotoxins in different matrices. However, there are still some food commodities susceptible to fungal contamination, which were not contemplated in this legislation. In this context, we have developed new analytical techniques for the multiclass determination of mycotoxins in a great variety of food commodities (some of them scarcely studied), such as cereals, pseudocereals, cereal syrups, nuts, edible seeds, and botanicals. Considering the latest technical developments, ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry has been chosen as an efficient, fast, and selective powerful analytical technique. In addition, alternative sample treatments based on emerging methodologies, such as dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction and QuEChERS, have been developed, which allow an increased efficiency and sample throughput, as well as reducing contaminant waste.