bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuous Monitoring of Water Quality Using Portable and Low-Cost Approaches
Authors: Tuna Gurkan , Arkoc Orhan , Gulez Kayhan
Published: June 2013

Water quality refers to the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water, and it is a measure of the condition of water relative to any human need or purpose. A particular problem with measuring the condition of water quality at drinking water reservoirs is the requirement of collecting a large number of samples. To handle this problem, we focus on the practical use of two different portable and low-cost approaches for continuous monitoring of water quality: miniboats loaded with sondes with probes and wireless sensor network- (WSN-) based monitoring system. These approaches bring several advantages over traditional monitoring systems in terms of cost, portability, and applicability. Our simulation studies show that these systems can be used to monitor water quality at drinking water reservoirs such as dams and holding ponds. Field tests to prove the effectiveness of the proposed systems are in progress.
Design of Efficient Full Adder in Quantum‐Dot Cellular Automata
Authors: Sen Bibhash , Rajoria Ayush , Sikdar Biplab K.
Published: June 2013

Further downscaling of CMOS technology becomes challenging as it faces limitation of feature size reduction. Quantum‐dot cellular automata (QCA), a potential alternative to CMOS, promises efficient digital design at nanoscale. Investigations on the reduction of QCA primitives (majority gates and inverters) for various adders are limited, and very few designs exist for reference. As a result, design of adders under QCA framework is gaining its importance in recent research. This work targets developing multi‐layered full adder architecture in QCA framework based on five‐input majority gate proposed here. A minimum clock zone (2 clock) with high compaction (0.01 μm2) for a full adder around QCA is achieved. Further, the usefulness of such design is established with the synthesis of high‐level logic. Experimental results illustrate the significant improvements in design level in terms of circuit area, cell count, and clock compared to that of conventional design approaches.
Hybrid Technique of Lamellar Keratoplasty (DMEK-S)
Authors: Studeny Pavel , Sivekova Deli , Liehneova Katerina , Vokrojova Magdalena , Kuchynka Pavel
Published: June 2013

Purpose: To evaluate the outcomes of the hybrid technique of posterior lamellar keratoplasty (DMEK-S).Materials and Methods: 71 eyes of 55 patients enrolled in a single-center study underwent posterior lamellar keratoplasty with a hybrid lamella DMEK-S implanted using a solution implantation technique, owing to endothelial dysfunction. The outcome measures studied were visual acuity and endothelial cell density.Results: The rate of endothelial cell loss caused by surgery was 43.8%. During followups, we observed the stabilization of postoperative findings, or at minimum a very low rate of corneal endothelial cell loss. The UCDVA and BCDVA dramatically improved postoperatively. The rebubbling rate in our group of patients was 61.9%. We replaced the lamella due to its failure or malfunction in 17 patients (23.9%).Conclusion: In summary, DMEK-S combines the advantages of DSEK/DSAEK and DMEK. The central zone of bare Descemet’s membrane and endothelium allows for very good visual outcomes, and the peripheral rim allows for better manipulation of the lamella during implantation. It is an effective method of treating the endothelial dysfunction of various etiologies, but the high complication rate needs to be addressed before widespread implementation of the technique in the future.
Existence and Uniqueness of Positive Solutions to Nonlinear Second Order Impulsive Differential Equations with Concave or Convex Nonlinearities
Authors: Zhang Lingling , Zhai Chengbo
Published: June 2013

Using a new fixed point theorem of generalized concave operators, we present in this paper criteria which guarantee the existence and uniqueness of positive solutions to nonlinear two-point boundary value problems for second-order impulsive differential equations with concave or convex nonlinearities.
Ionospheric Anomalies Related to the (M = 7.3), August 27, 2012, Puerto Earthquake, (M = 6.8), August 30, 2012 Jan Mayen Island Earthquake, and (M = 7.6), August 31, 2012, Philippines Earthquake: Two‐Dimensional Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Lin Jyh-Woei
Published: June 2013

Two‐dimensional principal component analysis (2DPCA) and principal component analysis (PCA) are used to examine the ionospheric total electron content (TEC) data during the time period from 00:00 on August 21 to 12: 45 on August 31 (UT), which are 10 days before the M = 7.6 Philippines earthquake at 12:47:34 on August 31, 2012 (UT) with the depth at 34.9 km. From the results by using 2DPCA, a TEC precursor of Philippines earthquake is found during the time period from 4:25 to 4:40 on August 28, 2012 (UT) with the duration time of at least 15 minutes. Another earthquake‐related TEC anomaly is detectable for the time period from 04:35 to 04:40 on August 27, 2012 (UT) with the duration time of at least 5 minutes during the Puerto earthquake at 04: 37:20 on August 27, 2012 (UT) (Mw = 7.3) with the depth at 20.3 km. The precursor of the Puerto earthquake is not detectable. TEC anomaly is not to be found related to the Jan Mayen Island earthquake (Mw = 6.8) at 13:43:24 on August 30, 2012 (UT). These earthquake‐related TEC anomalies are detectable by using 2DPCA rather than PCA. They are localized nearby the epicenters of the Philippines and Puerto earthquakes.
Dry Sliding Wear Behaviour of Titanium (Grade 5) Alloy by Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Chauhan S. R. , Dass Kali
Published: June 2013

The dry sliding wear behaviour of titanium (Grade 5) alloy has been investigated in order to highlight the mechanisms responsible for the poor wear resistance under different applied normal load, sliding speed, and sliding distance conditions. Design of experimental technique, that is, response surface methodology (RSM), has been used to accomplish the objective of the experimental study. The experimental plan for three factors at three levels using face-centre central composite design (CCD) has been employed. The results indicated that the specific wear rate increases with an increase in the applied normal load and sliding speed. However, it decreases with an increase in the sliding distance and a decrease in the sliding speed. The worn surfaces of the titanium alloy specimens were analyzed with the help of scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The predicted result also shows the close agreement with the experimental results and hence the developed models could be used for prediction of wear behaviour satisfactorily.
Cryoglobulinemia due to Hepatitis C with Pulmonary Renal Syndrome
Authors: Abdulkarim Tariq , Saklayen Mohammad , Yap Jayson
Published: June 2013

Cryoglobulinemia is an uncommon condition typically due to hepatitis C infection. Its clinical presentation is varied and often reflects deposition of immune complex and complement deposition. Renal compromise is observed in approximately one third of patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia and reports of concomitant pulmonary involvement are quite rare. We report a case of a patient who presented with pulmonary and renal manifestations of cryoglobulinemia with a serum rheumatoid factor over one hundred times the upper limit of normal and benefited from high-dose steroids and plasmapheresis in the acute setting.
Immunological Consequences of Antihelminthic Treatment in Preschool Children Exposed to Urogenital Schistosome Infection
Authors: Rujeni Nadine , Nausch Norman , Midzi Nicholas , Cowan Graeme J. , Burchmore Richard , Cavanagh David R. , Taylor David W. , Mduluza Takafira , Mutapi Francisca
Published: June 2013

Urogenital schistosomiasis, due toSchistosoma haematobium,is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa. Control is by targeted treatment with praziquantel but preschool age children are excluded from control programs. Immunological studies on the effect of treatment at this young age are scarce. In light of studies in older individuals showing that praziquantel alters antischistosome immune responses and responses to bystander antigens, this study aims to investigate how these responses would be affected by treatment at this young age. Antibody responses directed against schistosome antigens,Plasmodium falciparumcrude and recombinant antigens, and the allergen house dust mite were measured in children aged 3 to 5 years before and 6 weeks after treatment. The change in serological recognition of schistosome proteins was also investigated. Treatment augmented antischistosome IgM and IgE responses. The increase in IgE responses directed against adult worm antigens was accompanied by enhanced antigen recognition by sera from the children. Antibody responses directed againstPlasmodiumantigens were not significantly affected by praziquantel treatment nor were levels of allergen specific responses. Overall, praziquantel treatment enhanced, quantitatively and qualitatively, the antiworm responses associated with protective immunity but did not alterPlasmodium-specific responses or allergen-specific responses which mediate pathology in allergic disease.
Implementing a Distributed WSN Based on IPv6 for Ambient Monitoring
Authors: Larios D. F. , Mora-Merchan J. M. , Personal E. , Barbancho J. , León C.
Published: June 2013

Traditionally, Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are used for monitoring an extensive area. In these networks, a centralized server is usually used to collect and store the sensor information. However, new distributed protocols allow connections directly to the WSN nodes without the need of a centralized server. Moreover, these systems are able to establish communications among heterogeneous networks. The new protocols strategy is focused on considering several WSNs as a unique distributed one. This way, a user of the system is able to analyze a process under study as a whole instead of considering it as a set of different subsystems. This is the case in the evaluation of migratory waterbirds' environment. In this case, it is usual to deploy several WSNs in different breeding areas. They are all interconnected and they measure different environmental parameters. However, this improvement in the data access flexibility may result in a loss of network performance and an increase in network power consumption. Focused on this problem, this paper evaluates different communication protocols: distributed and centralized, in order to determine the best trade-off for environmental monitoring in different migratory areas of waterbirds.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Metabolic Syndrome and Asthma
Authors: Mabalirajan Ulaganathan , Ghosh Balaram
Published: June 2013

Though severe or refractory asthma merely affects less than 10% of asthma population, it consumes significant health resources and contributes significant morbidity and mortality. Severe asthma does not fell in the routine definition of asthma and requires alternative treatment strategies. It has been observed that asthma severity increases with higher body mass index. The obese-asthmatics, in general, have the features of metabolic syndrome and are progressively causing a significant burden for both developed and developing countries thanks to the westernization of the world. As most of the features of metabolic syndrome seem to be originated from central obesity, the underlying mechanisms for metabolic syndrome could help us to understand the pathobiology of obese-asthma condition. While mitochondrial dysfunction is the common factor for most of the risk factors of metabolic syndrome, such as central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, the involvement of mitochondria in obese-asthma pathogenesis seems to be important as mitochondrial dysfunction has recently been shown to be involved in airway epithelial injury and asthma pathogenesis. This review discusses current understanding of the overlapping features between metabolic syndrome and asthma in relation to mitochondrial structural and functional alterations with an aim to uncover mechanisms for obese-asthma.
Human Serum PCSK9 Is Elevated at Parturition in Comparison to Nonpregnant Subjects While Serum PCSK9 from Umbilical Cord Blood is Lower Compared to Maternal Blood
Authors: Peticca Patricia , Raymond Angela , Gruslin Andrée , Cousins Marion , Adetola Ejibunmi , Abujrad Hussein , Mayne Janice , Ooi Teik Chye
Published: June 2013

Background. Serum lipids including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) are increased in pregnancy. Serum proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 (PCSK9) is a significant player in lipoprotein metabolism. Circulating PCSK9 downregulates the LDL receptor on the surface of the liver, inhibiting clearance of LDL-C. Therefore, our study assessed serum PCSK9 concentrations at parturition (Maternal) compared to a nonpregnant (Control) cohort, as well as between mother and newborn (Maternal and Newborn). Methods. Blood was collected from women at parturition and from umbilical cords. Serum lipids and PCSK9 were measured and data were analysed for significance by Mann-Whitney U test at P<0.05 and presented as median levels. Spearman's correlations were made at a 95% confidence interval. Results. Serum PCSK9 was significantly higher in Maternal versus Control cohorts (493.1 versus 289.7 ng/mL; P<0.001, resp.), while the Newborn cohort was significantly lower than Maternal (278.2 versus 493.1 ng/mL; P<0.0001, resp.). PCSK9 was significantly correlated with TC and HDL-C in Maternal and with TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C in Newborn cohorts. Conclusions. Our study provides the first quantitative report on PCSK9 in pregnancy (at parturition) and in umbilical cord blood. Further research will determine how these changes may affect lipoprotein levels during this physiological state.
Clinical Application of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Management of Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Chen Jeon-Hor , Su Min-Ying
Published: June 2013

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), also termed primary, induction, or preoperative chemotherapy, is traditionally used to downstage inoperable breast cancer. In recent years it has been increasingly used for patients who have operable cancers in order to facilitate breast-conserving surgery, achieve better cosmetic outcome, and improve prognosis by reaching pathologic complete response (pCR). Many studies have demonstrated that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can assess residual tumor size after NAC, and that provides critical information for planning of the optimal surgery. NAC also allows for timely adjustment of administered drugs based on response, so ineffective regimens could be terminated early to spare patients from unnecessary toxicity while allowing other effective regimens to work sooner. This review article summarizes the clinical application of MRI during NAC. The use of different MR imaging methods, including dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, proton MR spectroscopy, and diffusion-weighted MRI, to monitor and evaluate the NAC response, as well as how changes of parameters measured at an early time after initiation of a drug regimen can predict final treatment outcome, are reviewed. MRI has been proven a valuable tool and will continue to provide important information facilitating individualized image-guided treatment and personalized management for breast cancer patients undergoing NAC.
Turbine Rotor Disk Health Monitoring Assessment Based on Sensor Technology and Spin Tests Data
Authors: Abdul-Aziz Ali , Woike Mark
Published: June 2013

The paper focuses on presenting data obtained from spin test experiments of a turbine engine like rotor disk and assessing their correlation to the development of a structural health monitoring and fault detection system. The data were obtained under various operating conditions such as the rotor disk being artificially induced with and without a notch and rotated at a rotational speed of up to 10,000 rpm under balanced and imbalanced state. The data collected included blade tip clearance, blade tip timing measurements, and shaft displacements. Two different sensor technologies were employed in the testing: microwave and capacitive sensors, respectively. The experimental tests were conducted at the NASA Glenn Research Center’s Rotordynamics Laboratory using a high precision spin system. Disk flaw observations and related assessments from the collected data for both sensors are reported and discussed.
Finitep-Group with Small Abelian Subgroups
Authors: Mao Yuemei , Li Qianlu
Published: June 2013

A finitep-groupGis said to have the propertyP, if, for any abelian subgroupMofG, there is|MZ(G)/Z(G)|≤p. We show that ifGsatisfiesP, thenGhas the following two types: (1)Gis isoclinic to some stem groups of orderp5, which form an isoclinic family. (2)Gis isoclinic to a specialp-group of exponentp. Elementary structures of groups withPare determined.
Scalar-Tensor Bianchi VI Models
Authors: Belinchón J. A.
Published: June 2013

We study how may vary the gravitational and the cosmological “constants,” ( and ) in several scalar-tensor theories with Bianchi III, , and symmetries. By working under the hypothesis of self-similarity we find exact solutions for two different theoretical models, which are the Jordan-Brans-Dicke (JBD) with and the usual JBD model with potential (that mimics the behaviour of . We compare both theoretical models, and some physical and geometrical properties of the solutions are also discussed putting special emphasis on the study of the isotropization of the solutions.
Distributions of Patterns of Pair of Successes Separated by Failure Runs of Length at Least and at Most Involving Markov Dependent Trials: GERT Approach
Authors: Sen Kanwar , Mohan Pooja , Agarwal Manju Lata
Published: June 2013

We use the Graphical Evaluation and Review Technique (GERT) to obtain probability generating functions of the waiting time distributions of 1st, and th nonoverlapping and overlapping occurrences of the pattern , involving homogenous Markov dependent trials. GERT besides providing visual picture of the system helps to analyze the system in a less inductive manner. Mean and variance of the waiting times of the occurrence of the patterns have also been obtained. Some earlier results existing in literature have been shown to be particular cases of these results.
Patellar Tendon Properties and Lower Limb Function in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis versus Healthy Controls: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Matschke Verena , Jones Jeremy G. , Lemmey Andrew B. , Maddison Peter J. , Thom Jeanette M.
Published: June 2013

Objective. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) lead to inflammation in tendons and peritendinous tissues, but effects on biomechanical tendon function are unknown. This study investigated patellar tendon (PT) properties in stable, established RA and AS patients. Methods. We compared 18 RA patients (13 women, 59.0 ± 2.8 years, mean ± SEM) with 18 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (58.2 ± 3.2 years), and 12 AS patients (4 women, 52.9 ± 3.4 years) with 12 matched controls (54.5 ± 4.7 years). Assessments with electromyography, isokinetic dynamometry, and ultrasound included quadriceps muscle force and cross‐sectional area (CSA), PT stiffness, and PT CSA. Additionally, measures of physical function and disease activity were performed. Results. PT stiffness and physical function were lower in RA and AS patients compared to healthy controls, without a significant difference in force production. PT CSA was significantly larger leading to reduction in Young’s modulus (YM) in AS, but not in RA. Conclusion. The adverse changes in PT properties in RA and AS may contribute to their impaired physical function. AS, but not RA, leads to PT thickening without increasing PT stiffness, suggesting that PT thickening in AS is a disorganised repair process. Longitudinal studies need to investigate the time course of these changes and their response to exercise training.
Covering Cycle Matroid
Authors: Li Qingyin , Zhu William
Published: June 2013

Covering is a type of widespread data representation while covering-based rough sets provide an efficient and systematic theory to deal with this type of data. Matroids are based on linear algebra and graph theory and have a variety of applications in many fields. In this paper, we construct two types of covering cycle matroids by a covering and then study the graphical representations of these two types of matriods. First, through defining a cycle graph by a set, the
type-1 covering cycle matroid is constructed by a covering. By a dual graph of the cycle graph, the covering can also induce the type-2 covering cycle matroid. Second, some characteristics of these two types of matroids are formulated by a covering, such as independent sets, bases, circuits, and support sets. Third, a coarse covering of a covering is defined to study the graphical representation of the type-1 covering cycle matroid. We prove that the type-1 covering cycle matroid is graphic while the type-2 covering cycle matroid is not always a graphic matroid. Finally, relationships between these two types of matroids and the function matroid are studied. In a word, borrowing from matroids, this work presents an interesting view, graph, to investigate covering-based rough sets.
Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Toxocara canis Infection in Children
Authors: Romero Núñez Camilo , Mendoza Martínez Germán David , Yañez Arteaga Selene , Ponce Macotela Martha , Bustamante Montes Patricia , Ramírez Durán Ninfa
Published: June 2013

The objective of this study was to determine seroprevalence and identify risk factors associated with Toxocara canis infection. A clinical and epidemiological questionnaire and body mass index were used to assess the risk factors associated with human toxocariasis in 108 children with an age range of 2–16 years. Antibodies against Toxocara canis were detected using an ELISA test kit. Chi‐square analysis and odds ratio (OR) were used to identify risk factors associated with Toxocara canis seropositivity. The prevalence of antibodies against Toxocara canis was greater (P = 0.02) in males than females (28.84% and 16.07%, resp.). Chi‐square analysis and odds ratio revealed just one variable with P < 0.05, and OR > 1.0 was associated with seropositivity: the possession of dogs under one year old (OR = 1.78). Although not significant, the OR values suggest that other factors may be epidemiologically important for Toxocara presence such as not washing hands before meals, malnutrition, obesity, and use of public parks. Children in the age group >12 and <16 years old had higher seroprevalence to Toxocara canis (17.59%) than the >2 and <11 years old age group (4.62%). Toxocariosis infection needs to be prevented by pet deworming and hygienic measures after contact with dogs.
The Role of Uncoupling Proteins in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Liu Jing , Li Ji , Li Wen-Jian , Wang Chun-Ming
Published: June 2013

Uncoupling proteins (UCPs) are anion carriers expressed in the mitochondrial inner membrane that uncouple oxygen consumption by the respiratory chain from ATP synthesis. The physiological functions of UCPs have long been debated since the new UCPs (UCP2 to 5) were discovered, and the role of UCPs in the pathogeneses of diabetes mellitus is one of the hottest topics. UCPs are thought to be activated by superoxide and then decrease mitochondrial free radicals generation; this may provide a protective effect on diabetes mellitus that is under the oxidative stress conditions. UCP1 is considered to be a candidate gene for diabetes because of its role in thermogenesis and energy expenditure. UCP2 is expressed in several tissues and acts in the negative regulation of insulin secretion byβ-cells and in fatty acid metabolism. UCP3 plays a role in fatty acid metabolism and energy homeostasis and modulates insulin sensitivity. Several gene polymorphisms of UCP1, UCP2, and UCP3 were reported to be associated with diabetes. The progress in the role of UCP1, UCP2, and UCP3 on diabetes mellitus is summarized in this review.
On Parallelism of Half-Lightlike Submanifolds of Indefinite Kenmotsu Manifolds
Authors: Wang Wenjie , Liu Ximin
Published: June 2013

We mainly investigate the parallelism of half-lightlike submanifolds of indefinite Kenmotsu manifolds. It is proved that a tangential half-lightlike submanifold M of an indefinite Kenmotsu space form M-c,g- with semiparallel second fundamental form h either satisfies c=-1 or is J-RadTM,TM-mixed geodesic.
Virgin Coconut Oil Prevents Blood Pressure Elevation and Improves Endothelial Functions in Rats Fed with Repeatedly Heated Palm Oil
Authors: Nurul-Iman Badlishah Sham , Kamisah Yusof , Jaarin Kamsiah , Qodriyah Hj Mohd Saad
Published: June 2013

This study was performed to explore the effects of virgin coconut oil (VCO) in male rats that were fed with repeatedly heated palm oil on blood pressure, plasma nitric oxide level, and vascular reactivity. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: (i) control (basal diet), (ii) VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral), (iii) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) (5HPO), and (iv) five-times-heated palm oil (15%) and VCO (1.42 mL/kg, oral) (5HPO + VCO). Blood pressure was significantly increased in the group that was given the 5HPO diet compared to the control group. Blood pressure in the 5HPO + VCO group was significantly lower than the 5HPO group. Plasma nitric oxide (NO) level in the 5HPO group was significantly lower compared to the control group, whereas in the 5HPO + VCO group, the plasma NO level was significantly higher compared to the 5HPO group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO group exhibited attenuated relaxation in response to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside as well as increased vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the control group. Aortic rings from the 5HPO + VCO group showed only attenuated vasoconstriction to phenylephrine compared to the 5HPO group. In conclusion, VCO prevents blood pressure elevation and improves endothelial functions in rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil.
Risk Factors of Lymph Edema in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Shahpar Haghighat , Atieh Akbari , Maryam Ansari , Fatemeh Homaei Shandiz , Massoome Najafi , Mandana Ebrahimi , Masud Yunesian , Hamid Reza Mirzaei , Mohammad Esmaeil Akbari
Published: June 2013

Background. Lymphedema secondary to breast cancer treatment is a common and serious problem for disease survivors. The objective of the current study was to identify the risk factors of secondary lymphedema after breast carcinoma treatment.Materials & Methods. The breast cancer patients who were followed up in three centers in Tehran and Mashhad in 2010 were recruited in the study. The circumference measurement was used for defining lymphedema.Results. Among 410 breast cancer patients, 123 cases (30%) developed lymphedema. Variables such as low educational level, body mass index (BMI), higher stage of disease, number of involved lymph nodes, comorbid diseases, trauma, infection, and the time after surgery showed significant correlation with the development of lymphedema. In logistic regression analysis, increase of 1 kg/m2in BMI (OR = 1.09; 95%  CI 1.05–1.15), each number increase in lymph node involvement (OR = 1.15; 95%  CI 1.08–1.21) and the increase of every 1 month after surgery (OR = 1.01; 95%  CI 1.01–1.02) significantly increased the risk of lymphedema.Conclusion. The results of this study demonstrated that preserving a fitted BMI, emphasis on self-care, and educating preventive activities may have important roles in decreasing the lymphedema incidence and improving the patients’ quality of life.
Study of Magnetic Vibration Absorber with Permanent Magnets along Vibrating Beam Structure
Authors: Sayyad F. B. , Gadhave N. D.
Published: June 2013

The vibration absorbers are frequently used to control and minimize excess vibration in structural system. Dynamic vibration absorbers are used to reduce the undesirable vibration in many applications such as pumps, gas turbines, engine, bridge, and electrical generator. To reduce the vibration of the system, the frequency of absorber should be equal to the excitation frequency. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of magnetic vibration absorber along vibrating cantilever beam. This study will aim to develop a position of magnetic vibration absorber along the cantilever beam to adopt the change in vibratory system. The absorber system is mounted on a cantilever beam acting as the primary system. The objective is to suppress the vibration of the primary system subjected to a harmonic excitation whose frequencies are varying. It can be achieved by varying the position of magnetic vibration absorber along the length of beam. The advantage of magnetic vibration absorber is that it can be easily tuned to the excitation frequency, so it can be used to reduce the vibration of system subjected to variable excitation frequency.
Dense Nanostructured Nickel Produced by SPS from Mechanically Activated Powders: Enhancement of Mechanical Properties
Authors: Naimi F. , Minier L. , Le Gallet S. , Couque H. , Bernard F.
Published: June 2013

An investigation was performed to evaluate the potential of the spark plasma sintering process in producing dense nanostructured materials. Microstructured and nanostructured nickel was sintered by SPS starting from nickel powder (APS 3–7 μm) in the as‐received state and after a mechanical activation using a high‐energy ball mill. First, a sintering study to determine SPS processing conditions to reach full densification was carried out with specimens 50 mm in diameter and 10 mm in height. In a second step, an experimental investigation was undertaken with dense nickel disks to generate tensile properties. The tensile tests were performed at a strain rate of 10−3 s−1 with specimens 16 mm in gage length and 4 mm in gage diameter. Tensile ductility in excess of 40% was reached with the microstructured nickel. For the nanostructured nickel, high yield stresses in excess of 600 MPa were measured with a tensile ductility of 30%. These results were analyzed through densification and microstructure measurements.
A Novel Definition of L‐Fuzzy Lattice Based on Fuzzy Set
Authors: Zhang Jun-Fang
Published: June 2013

The concept of L‐fuzzy lattice is presented by means of an L‐fuzzy partially ordered set. An L‐fuzzy partially ordered set A is an L‐fuzzy lattice if and only if one of A[a], A[a], and A(a) is a lattice.
Evolution of Three Parent Genes and Their Retrogene Copies inDrosophilaSpecies
Authors: O'Neill Ryan S. , Clark Denise V.
Published: June 2013

Retrogenes form a class of gene duplicate lacking the regulatory sequences found outside of the mRNA-coding regions of the parent gene. It is not clear how a retrogene’s lack of parental regulatory sequences affects the evolution of the gene pair. To explore the evolution of parent genes and retrogenes, we investigated three such gene pairs in the family Drosophilidae; inDrosophila melanogaster, these gene pairs areCG8331andCG4960,CG17734andCG11825, andSep2andSep5. We investigated the embryonic expression patterns of these gene pairs across multipleDrosophilaspecies. Expression patterns of the parent genes and their single copy orthologs are relatively conserved across species, whether or not a species has a retrogene copy, although there is some variation inCG8331andCG17734. In contrast, expression patterns of the retrogene orthologs have diversified. We used the genome sequences of 20Drosophilaspecies to investigate coding sequence evolution. The coding sequences of the three gene pairs appear to be evolving predominantly under negative selection; however, the parent genes and retrogenes show some distinct differences in amino acid sequence. Therefore, in general, retrogene expression patterns and coding sequences are distinct compared to their parents and, in some cases, retrogene expression patterns diversify.
Simulation and Experimental Study of Photogeneration and Recombination in Amorphous-Like Silicon Thin Films Deposited by 27.12 MHz Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Hsu Chia-Hsun , Hsieh In-Cha , Tsou Chia-Chi , Lien Shui-Yang
Published: June 2013

Amorphous-like silicon (a-Si:H-like) thin films are prepared by 27.12 MHz plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition technique. The films are applied to p-i-n single junction thin film solar cells with varying i-layer thickness to observe the effects on the short-circuit current density, as well as the open-circuit voltage, fill factor, and conversion efficiency. The most significant experimental result is thatJschas two different behaviors with increasing the i-layer thickness, which can be related to carrier collection efficiency in the long wavelength region. Furthermore, technology computer-aided design simulation software is used to gain better insight into carrier generation and recombination of the solar cells, showing that for the i-layer thickness of 200 to 300 nm the generation dominates the carrier density and thusJsc, whereas for the i-layer thickness of 300 to 400 nm the recombination becomes the leading factor. The simulation results of cell performances are in good agreement with experimental data, indicating that our simulation has great reliability. In addition, the a-Si:H-like solar cells have low light-induced degradation, which in turn can have a great potential to be used for stable and high-efficiency solar cells.
Direct‐Acting Antivirals for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C: Open Issues and Future Perspectives
Authors: Chae Hee Bok , Park Seon Mee , Youn Sei Jin
Published: June 2013

Currently, two direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) show well‐established efficacy against hepatitis C virus (HCV), namely, first‐wave protease inhibitors telaprevir and boceprevir. Most clinical trials have examined DAAs in combination with standard of care (SOC) regimens. Future therapeutic drugs were divided into three categories. They are second‐wave protease inhibitors, second‐generation protease inhibitors, and polymerase inhibitors. Second‐wave protease inhibitors are more improved form and can be administered once a day. Oral drug combinations can be favored because interferon (IFN) not only has to be given as intradermal injection, but also can cause several serious side effects. Combination of drugs with different mechanisms shows a good sustained virological response (SVR). But several mutations are associated with viral resistance to DAAs. Therefore, genotypic resistance data may provide insights into strategies aimed at maximizing SVR rates and minimizing resistance. Combined drug regimens are necessary to prevent the emergence of drug‐resistant HCV. Many promising DAA candidates have been identified. Of these, a triple regimen containing sofosbuvir shows promise, and treatment with daclatasvir plus asunaprevir yields a high SVR rate (95%). Oral drug combinations will be standard of care in the near future.
A Review of Organic Farming for Sustainable Agriculture in Northern India
Authors: Yadav S. K. , Babu Subhash , Yadav M. K. , Singh Kalyan , Yadav G. S. , Pal Suresh
Published: June 2013

In the post independence period, the most important challenge in India has been to produce enough food for the growing population. Hence, high-yielding varieties are being used with infusion of irrigation water, fertilizers, or pesticides. This combination of high-yielding production technology has helped the country develop a food surplus as well as contributing to concerns of soil health, environmental pollution, pesticide toxicity, and sustainability of agricultural production. Scientists and policy planners are, therefore, reassessing agricultural practices which relied more on biological inputs rather than heavy usage of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Organic farming can provide quality food without adversely affecting the soil’s health and the environment; however, a concern is whether large-scale organic farming will produce enough food for India’s large population. Certified organic products including all varieties of food products including basmati rice, pulses, honey, tea, spices, coffee, oilseeds, fruits, cereals, herbal medicines, and their value-added products are produced in India. Non edible organic products include cotton, garments, cosmetics, functional food products, body care products, and similar products. The production of these organic crops and products is reviewed with regard to sustainable agriculture in northern India.
Anesthetic Overdose Leading to Cardiac Arrest Diagnosed by End-Tidal Inhalant Concentration Analysis in a Dog
Authors: Hofmeister Erik
Published: June 2013

A 5-year-old male-castrated Cocker Spaniel presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Georgia for a total ear canal ablation. Premedication was with carprofen 2.2 mg/kg SQ, hydromorphone 0.1 mg/kg IM, diazepam 0.2 mg/kg IM, and glycopyrrolate 0.01 mg/kg IM. The patient was induced with lidocaine 2 mg/kg IV and etomidate 1 mg/kg IV and maintained with sevoflurane and a constant rate infusion consisting of lidocaine 0.05 mg/kg/min. Before surgery start, the patient’s systolic arterial blood pressure was 110 mmHg, heart rate (HR) was 85 beats/min, respiratory rate was 8 breaths/min, end-tidal sevoflurane concentration was 3.2%, and end-tidal CO2(ETCO2) was 23 mmHg. As a scrub was being performed, the patient’s HR abruptly dropped to 20 beats/min over the course of 2 minutes. His ETCO2simultaneously decreased to 16 mmHg. At this time, cardiopulmonary arrest was diagnosed. After two minutes of resuscitation, a spontaneous heart beat was obtained and the patient was successfully recovered and discharged without further incident. The cardiac arrest in this case is most likely attributable to an overdose of inhalant anesthesia, which was diagnosed by an anesthetic inhalant concentration monitor. A gas analyzer may be a helpful contribution to the small animal practitioner, particularly those performing more lengthy or complex procedures.
Growth Kinetics of Monodisperse Polystyrene Microspheres Prepared by Dispersion Polymerization
Authors: Li Fan , Geng Chong , Yan Qingfeng
Published: June 2013

Dispersion polymerization has been widely applied to the synthesis of monodisperse micron-sized polymer colloidal spheres. Many efforts have been devoted to studying the influence of initial conditions on the size and uniformity of the resultant microspheres, aiming to synthesize micron-size monodisperse colloidal spheres. However, the inner contradiction between the size and the size distribution of colloidal spheres hinders the realization of this goal. In this work, we drew our attention from the initial conditions to the growth stage of dispersion polymerization. We tracked the size evolution of colloidal sphere during the dispersion polymerization, through which we established a kinetic model that described the relationship between the monomer concentration and the reaction time. The model may provide a guideline to prepare large polymer colloidal spheres with good monodispersity by continuous monomer feeding during the growth stage to maintain the concentration of monomer at a constant value in a dispersion polymerization process.
Career-Oriented Performance Tasks in Chemistry: Effects on Students' Critical Thinking Skills
Authors: Espinosa Allen A. , Monterola Sheryl Lyn C. , Punzalan Amelia E.
Published: June 2013

The study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of career-oriented performance task (COPT) approach against the traditional teaching approach (TTA) in enhancing students’ critical thinking skills. Specifically, it sought to find out if students exposed to COPT have higher critical thinking skills than those students exposed to the traditional teaching approach (TTA). COPT approach aims to integrate career-oriented examples and inquiry-based activities in general inorganic chemistry. The study used the quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design. The sample of the study consisted of two (2) intact sections of first-year students in a private higher education institution in Manila who are enrolled in general inorganic chemistry during the second semester of school year 2011-2012. Thirty-nine (39) students are in the COPT class while thirty-eight (38) students are in the TTA class. The instrument used in the study is the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (WGCTA) to evaluate students’ critical thinking skills. The study found out that the mean posttest score in the WGCTA was not significantly higher for students exposed to COPT than for students exposed to TTA. The COPT approach in teaching chemistry was not effective in enhancing students’ critical thinking skills given the limited time of intervention. Longer exposure to intervention is necessary to enhance students’ critical thinking skills.
Vision Measurement Scheme Using Single Camera Rotation
Authors: Dong Shidu
Published: June 2013

We propose vision measurement scheme for estimating the distance or size of the object in static scene, which requires single camera with 3-axis accelerometer sensor rotating around a fixed axis. First, we formulate the rotation matrix and translation vector from one coordinate system of the camera to another in terms of the rotation angle, which can be figured out from the readouts of the sensor. Second, with the camera calibration data and through coordinate system transformation, we propose a method for calculating the orientation and position of the rotation axis relative to camera coordinate system. Finally, given the rotation angle and the images of the object in static scene at two different positions, one before and the other after camera rotation, the 3D coordinate of the point on the object can be determined. Experimental results show the validity of our method.
Association of Leukotriene Gene Variants and Plasma LTB4 Levels with Coronary Artery Disease in Asian Indians
Authors: Nair Jiny , Shanker Jayashree , Arvind Prathima , Jambunathan Srikarthika , Kakkar Vijay V.
Published: June 2013

Leukotrienes are potent inflammatory and lipid mediators that participate in atherosclerosis. We analyzed the association of Leukotriene gene (ALOX5, ALOX5AP, LTA4H, and LTC4S) polymorphisms and plasma Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) levels with coronary artery disease (CAD) in a representative cohort of Asian Indians. In all, 136 functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected using in silico tools. Forty-five polymorphic SNPs were ranked for predicted functional effect using FastSNP. Finally, 14 functional SNPs along with 10 SNPs identified from the literature were genotyped in 340 CAD patients and 340 controls. Plasma LTB4 levels were measured in 150 cases and 150 controls. None of the 24 SNPs showed significant association with CAD. Plasma LTB4 levels were higher in cases than in controls (76.42 ± 4.46 pg/mL versus 60.89 ± 2.61 pg/mL) (P=0.003), with greater risk being associated with the top quartile as compared to the bottom quartile after adjusting for potential confounders (OR 8.94, 95% CI 2.56–31.95; P=0.001). Four SNPs in the LTA4H gene showed significant association with LTB4 levels (P<0.05) of which rs1978331 (P=0.035) remained significant after correction for multiple testing. LTB4 showed strong correlation with lipids (r=0.24–34) only in cases. Our pilot study suggests that the association between Leukotrienes gene polymorphisms and CAD risk may be modulated through plasma LTB4 levels.
Lgr4 in Ocular Development and Glaucoma
Authors: Siwko Stefan , Lai Li , Weng Jinsheng , Liu Mingyao
Published: June 2013

The leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4, also called GPR48) plays a key role in multiple developmental processes, and mice lackingLgr4display anterior segment dysgenesis leading to early-onset glaucomatous retinal ganglion cell loss as well as defective eyelid formation. This paper will review Lgr4 signaling and its regulation of the Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome genePitx2, a crucial developmental transcription factor. In addition, Wnt signaling plays an important role in eye development, with Norrin functioning to activate the Wnt receptor Frizzled 4 required for proper retinal vascularization. Recent discoveries identifying Lgr4 as a receptor for Norrin highlight the potential for Lgr4 function in retinal vascularization. Finally, several unanswered questions impeding a full understanding of Lgr4 in glaucoma are considered as avenues for further research.
Use of Potentially Harmful Skin-Lightening Products among Immigrant Women in Rome, Italy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cristaudo A. , D'Ilio S. , Gallinella B. , Mosca A. , Majorani C. , Violante N. , Senofonte O. , Morrone A. , Petrucci F.
Published: June 2013

Background: Skin-lightening products are increasingly common in European cities. These products may contain substances that are banned under EU regulations as they can induce adverse effects, including cutaneous and systemic reactions (e.g., mercury, hydroquinone and topical corticosteroids). Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of women regarding skin-lightening products and to quantify the potentially harmful substances in the products used. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study among 82 non-Italian women visiting an outpatient facility in Rome, Italy. The women completed a questionnaire on product use, side effects and risk awareness. We performed patch tests among a subgroup of 48 women who presented with contact dermatitis. We also quantified the allergenic and toxic substances in the 14 products reported, using dynamic reaction cell inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for metals and high-performance liquid chromatography for hydroquinone and topical corticosteroids. Results: Out of the 82 women, 33 used skin-lightening products; about one fourth of these women were aware of potential risks. Three cosmetic creams and two soaps contained high concentrations of metals (Cr, Ni and Pb); hydroquinone was found in three creams and one oil. The only topical corticosteroid detected was dexamethasone, in one product. More than half of the women in the clinical evaluation had irritant contact dermatitis (i.e., negative response to patch test). Conclusions: Among immigrant women in Rome, the use of skin-lightening products seems to be fairly common, and some of these products contain potentially hazardous substances. Consumers must be informed of the potential risks, and EU regulations must be more strictly enforced.
Management of Pediatric Traumatic Macular Holes - Case Report
Authors: Azevedo S. , Ferreira N. , Meireles A.
Published: June 2013

Purpose: To report and describe the clinical course of four pediatric traumatic macular hole (TMH) cases and respective management. Case Report: Four pediatric patients with macular hole following blunt ocular trauma underwent early pars plana vitrectomy, with consecutive hole closure. Initial visual acuity was <20/400 or worse in all patients. After surgery, all patients had visual acuity improvement, with final visual acuity being >20/50 in 2 of the patients by the end of the follow-up. Macular hole closure was achieved in all patients with a single procedure, and anatomical success was confirmed by optical coherence tomography until the end of the follow-up. Conclusions: Although spontaneous closure of TMH is not uncommon, especially in pediatric patients, early pars plana vitrectomy seems to be a safe and effective choice in pediatric TMH management. The risk/benefit ratio of surgery seems to be better than observation.