bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Responses and Vibration Control of the Transmission Tower-Line System: A State-of-the-Art Review
Authors: Chen Bo , Guo Wei-hua , Li Peng-yun , Xie Wen-ping
Published: July 2014

This paper presented an overview on the dynamic analysis and control of the transmission tower-line system in the past forty years. The challenges and future developing trends in the dynamic analysis and mitigation of the transmission tower-line system under dynamic excitations are also put forward. It also reviews the analytical models and approaches of the transmission tower, transmission lines, and transmission tower-line systems, respectively, which contain the theoretical model, finite element (FE) model and the equivalent model; shows the advances in wind responses of the transmission tower-line system, which contains the dynamic effects under common wind loading, tornado, downburst, and typhoon; and discusses the dynamic responses under earthquake and ice loads, respectively. The vibration control of the transmission tower-line system is also reviewed, which includes the magnetorheological dampers, friction dampers, tuned mass dampers, and pounding tuned mass dampers.
Detection of Single Umbilical Artery in the First Trimester Ultrasound: Its Value as a Marker of Fetal Malformation
Authors: Martínez-Payo Cristina , Cabezas Elena , Nieto Yolanda , Ruiz de Azúa Miguel , García-Benasach Fátima , Iglesias Enrique
Published: July 2014

Introduction. The value of a single umbilical artery (SUA) in first trimester ultrasound is not well established. The aim of our study was to determinate the relevance of diagnosis of single umbilical artery in first trimester ultrasound as an early marker suggesting the presence of malformations or associated chromosomopathies.Material and Methods. Retrospective study of clinical cases of SUA diagnosed at the University Hospital Puerta de Hierro in Madrid (Spain) during the first trimester ultrasound between September 2008 and September 2012.Results. Prevalence of SUA was 1.1% in single pregnancies and 3.3% in twin pregnancies. Sensitivity, specificity, false positive rate, and false negative rate for the finding in the first trimester were 84.2, 99.8, 0.2, and 15.7%, respectively. 17.6% of cases had associated malformations. With an ultrasound in the 16th week most of the cases with significant fetal malformation were diagnosed.Discussion. SUA is a useful marker in the first trimester for fetal malformation pathology, as it will allow detecting a large number of cases with malformations before 20 weeks of gestation.
Nonzero Sum Differential Game of Mean‐Field BSDEs with Jumps under Partial Information
Authors: Chen Xiaolan , Zhu Qingfeng
Published: July 2014

This paper is concerned with a kind of nonzero sum differential game of mean‐field backward stochastic differential equations with jump (MF‐BSDEJ), in which the coefficient contains not only the state process but also its marginal distribution. Moreover, the cost functional is also of mean‐field type. It is required that the control is adapted to a subfiltration of the filtration generated by the underlying Brownian motion and Poisson random measure. We establish a necessary condition in the form of maximum principle with Pontryagin’s type for open‐loop Nash equilibrium point of this type of partial information game and then give a verification theorem which is a sufficient condition for Nash equilibrium point. The theoretical results are applied to study a partial information linear‐quadratic (LQ) game.
Selected Factors Determining a Way of Coping with Stress in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Sobol-Pacyniak Anna Beata , Szymczak Wiesław , Kwarta Paulina , Loba Jerzy , Pietras Tadeusz
Published: July 2014

Objectives. The aim of the study was to examine factors which determine stress coping styles in type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients, with regard to selected demographic variables, clinical diabetes-related variables and selected psychical variables (anxiety level and assessment of depressive disorders).Methods. 50 T2D patients, aged 59.9 ± 10.2 years were assessed by Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS), Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). In the statistical analysis simple and multivariable logistic regression models were used.Results. Variables significantly increasing the selection risk of stress coping style different from preferred task-oriented strategy in a simple logistic regression model are: hypoglycemia within three months prior to the research: odds ratio (OR) = 6.86 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.25–37.61), taking antidepressants or neuroleptics: OR =15.42 (95% CI 2.42–98.33), severe depression in Beck’s scale: OR = 84.00 (95% CI 6.51–1083.65), high state-anxiety level: OR = 9.60 (95% CI 1.08–85.16), and high trait-anxiety level: OR = 18.40 (95%CI 2.96–114.31), but in a multivariable model, diagnosed depression is the strongest factor: OR = 32.38 (95% CI 4.94–212.13).Conclusions. In T2D patients, the strategy to cope with stress appears to be mostly influenced by psychical predisposition.
Culturable Bacterial Microbiota of the Stomach ofHelicobacter pyloriPositive and Negative Gastric Disease Patients
Authors: Khosravi Yalda , Dieye Yakhya , Poh Bee Hoon , Ng Chow Goon , Loke Mun Fai , Goh Khean Lee , Vadivelu Jamuna
Published: July 2014

Human stomach is the only known natural habitat ofHelicobacter pylori(Hp), a major bacterial pathogen that causes different gastroduodenal diseases. Despite this, the impact ofHpon the diversity and the composition of the gastric microbiota has been poorly studied. In this study, we have analyzed the culturable gastric microbiota of 215 Malaysian patients, including 131Hppositive and 84Hpnegative individuals that were affected by different gastric diseases. Non-Hpbacteria isolated from biopsy samples were identified by matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry based biotyping and16SrRNAsequencing. The presence ofHpdid not significantly modify the diversity of the gastric microbiota. However, correlation was observed between the isolation of Streptococci and peptic ulcer disease. In addition, as a first report,Burkholderia pseudomalleiwas also isolated from the gastric samples of the local population. This study suggested that there may be geographical variations in the diversity of the human gastric microbiome. Geographically linked diversity in the gastric microbiome and possible interactions betweenHpand other bacterial species from stomach microbiota in pathogenesis are proposed for further investigations.
Anomaly Detection Based on Local Nearest Neighbor Distance Descriptor in Crowded Scenes
Authors: Hu Xing , Hu Shiqiang , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhang Huanlong , Luo Lingkun
Published: July 2014

We propose a novel local nearest neighbor distance (LNND) descriptor for anomaly detection in crowded scenes. Comparing with the commonly used low-level feature descriptors in previous works, LNND descriptor has two major advantages. First, LNND descriptor efficiently incorporates spatial and temporal contextual information around the video event that is important for detecting anomalous interaction among multiple events, while most existing feature descriptors only contain the information of single event. Second, LNND descriptor is a compact representation and its dimensionality is typically much lower than the low-level feature descriptor. Therefore, not only the computation time and storage requirement can be accordingly saved by using LNND descriptor for the anomaly detection method with offline training fashion, but also the negative aspects caused by using high-dimensional feature descriptor can be avoided. We validate the effectiveness of LNND descriptor by conducting extensive experiments on different benchmark datasets. Experimental results show the promising performance of LNND-based method against the state-of-the-art methods. It is worthwhile to notice that the LNND-based approach requires less intermediate processing steps without any subsequent processing such as smoothing but achieves comparable event better performance.
Temporal Parameters Estimation for Wheelchair Propulsion Using Wearable Sensors
Authors: Ojeda Manoela , Ding Dan
Published: July 2014

Due to lower limb paralysis, individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) rely on their upper limbs for mobility. The prevalence of upper extremity pain and injury is high among this population. We evaluated the performance of three triaxis accelerometers placed on the upper arm, wrist, and under the wheelchair, to estimate temporal parameters of wheelchair propulsion. Twenty-six participants with SCI were asked to push their wheelchair equipped with a SMARTWheel. The estimated stroke number was compared with the criterion from video observations and the estimated push frequency was compared with the criterion from the SMARTWheel. Mean absolute errors (MAE) and mean absolute percentage of error (MAPE) were calculated. Intraclass correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess the agreement. Results showed reasonable accuracies especially using the accelerometer placed on the upper arm where the MAPE was 8.0% for stroke number and 12.9% for push frequency. The ICC was 0.994 for stroke number and 0.916 for push frequency. The wrist and seat accelerometer showed lower accuracy with a MAPE for the stroke number of 10.8% and 13.4% and ICC of 0.990 and 0.984, respectively. Results suggested that accelerometers could be an option for monitoring temporal parameters of wheelchair propulsion.
An Adaptive Framework for Real-Time ECG Transmission in Mobile Environments
Authors: Kang Kyungtae
Published: July 2014

Wireless electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring involves the measurement of ECG signals and their timely transmission over wireless networks to remote healthcare professionals. However, fluctuations in wireless channel conditions pose quality-of-service challenges for real-time ECG monitoring services in a mobile environment. We present an adaptive framework for layered coding and transmission of ECG data that can cope with a time-varying wireless channel. The ECG is segmented into layers with differing importance with respect to the quality of the reconstructed signal. According to this observation, we have devised a simple and efficient real-time scheduling algorithm based on the earliest deadline first (EDF) policy, which decides the order of transmitting or retransmitting packets that contain ECG data at any given time for the delivery of scalable ECG data over a lossy channel. The algorithm takes into account the differing priorities of packets in each layer, which prevents the perceived quality of the reconstructed ECG signal from degrading abruptly as channel conditions worsen, while using the available bandwidth efficiently. Extensive simulations demonstrate this improvement in perceived quality.
Association between the −794 (CATT)5–8  MIFGene Polymorphism and Susceptibility to Acute Coronary Syndrome in a Western Mexican Population
Authors: Valdés-Alvarado Emmanuel , Muñoz-Valle José Francisco , Valle Yeminia , Sandoval-Pinto Elena , García-González Ilian Janet , Valdez-Haro Angélica , De la Cruz-Mosso Ulises , Flores-Salinas Héctor Enrique , Padilla-Gutiérrez Jorgé Ramón
Published: July 2014

The macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is related to the progression of atherosclerosis, which, in turn, is a key factor in the development of acute coronary syndrome (ACS).MIFhas a CATT short tandem repeat (STR) at position −794 that might be involved in its expression rate. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the −794CATT5–8  MIFgene polymorphism and susceptibility to ACS in a western Mexican population. This research included 200 ACS patients classified according to the criteria of the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and 200 healthy subjects (HS). The −794CATT5–8  MIFgene polymorphism was analyzed using a conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. The 6 allele was the most frequent in both groups (ACS: 54% and HS: 57%). The most common genotypes in ACS patients and HS were 6/7 and 6/6, respectively, and a significant association was found between the 6/7 genotype and susceptibility to ACS (68% versus 47% in ACS and HS, resp.,P=0.03). We conclude that the 6/7 genotype of theMIF−794CATT5–8polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to ACS in a western Mexican population.
Effectiveness of the Interventions Utilized in Genetic Counseling
Authors: Choi Jeeyae , Kim Hyeoneui
Published: July 2014

Background. Advances in genetic science and biotechnology accumulated huge knowledge of genes and various genetic tests and diagnostic tools for healthcare providers including nurses. Genetic counseling became important to assist patients making decisions about obtaining genetic testing or preventive measures. Method. This review was conducted to describe the counseling topics, various interventions adopted in genetic counseling, and their effectiveness. Experimental studies (N=39) published between 1999 and 2012 were synthesized. Results. The most frequently covered topic was benefits and limitations of genetic testing on breast cancer ovarian and colorectal cancers. Most of researchers focused on evaluating cognitive aspect and psychological well-being. Conclusion. No single intervention was consistently reported to be effective. Decision aids enhanced with information technologies have potential to improve the outcomes of genetic counseling by providing tailored information and facilitating active engagement of patients in information uptake. Clinical Implication. When nurses are familiar with topics and interventions of genetic counseling, they are well positioned to provide genetic/genomic information to the patient and families.
Modelling and Simulation of Static Excitation System in Synchronous Machine Operation and Investigation of Shaft Voltage
Authors: Datta Arun Kumar , Dubey Manisha , Jain Shailendra
Published: July 2014

Static excitation system (SES) has been implemented in a specially designed synchronous machine installed in a testing laboratory. This is a large capacity single machine operated in dual mode (i.e., motor or generator) with the help of static sources. It is well known that bearings of the rotating machines are vulnerable to the effects of the shaft voltages caused by the static sources. Shaft voltage is the prime concern for this special machine too due to SES. To find out the exact cause of the shaft voltage, SES of this machine has been modelled with Power Systems software. Various waveforms drawn from the model are validated through computer simulations and actual laboratory tests. Sources of shaft voltages are also analysed thereafter with the FFT analysis of the rotor voltage and current waveforms.
25C-NBOMe: Preliminary Data on Pharmacology, Psychoactive Effects, and Toxicity of a New Potent and Dangerous Hallucinogenic Drug
Authors: Bersani Francesco Saverio , Corazza Ornella , Albano Gabriella , Valeriani Giuseppe , Santacroce Rita , Bolzan Mariotti Posocco Flaminia , Cinosi Eduardo , Simonato Pierluigi , Martinotti Giovanni , Bersani Giuseppe , Schifano Fabrizio
Published: July 2014

Introduction. The use of novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) has rapidly increased as well as their online availability. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the nature and the risks associated with 25C-NBOMe, which has recently appeared in the drug market.Methods. A systematic analysis of the scientific literature and a qualitative assessment of online and media resources (e.g., e-newsgroups, chat-rooms, and e-newsletters) in 10 languages were carried out.Results. 25C-NBOMe is sold online as legal LSD or as research chemical with different designations such as “Boom,” “Pandora,” “Holland film,” or “N-bomb.” It is a partial agonist of 5-HT2A receptors. It is usually ingested orally/sublingually and, less commonly, nasally, through injection, vaginally, rectally, and smoked. Its effects include sublingual numbing, stimulation, “body high,” hallucinations, dissociation, and anxiety. 25C-NBOMe presents high risk of overdoses; acute toxicity and fatalities have been reported.Conclusions. 25C-NBOMe consumption represents an emerging phenomenon with potential harmful effects. Its use is increased by its online availability at low costs. Health and other professionals should be informed about this new trend of substance use.
Hybrid Iterative Scheme for Triple Hierarchical Variational Inequalities with Mixed Equilibrium, Variational Inclusion, and Minimization Constraints
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Liao Cheng-Wen , Pang Chin-Tzong , Wen Ching-Feng
Published: July 2014

We introduce and analyze a hybrid iterative algorithm by combining Korpelevich's extragradient method, the hybrid steepest-descent method, and the averaged mapping approach to the gradient-projection algorithm. It is proven that, under appropriate assumptions, the proposed algorithm converges strongly to a common element of the fixed point set of finitely many nonexpansive mappings, the solution set of a generalized mixed equilibrium problem (GMEP), the solution set of finitely many variational inclusions, and the solution set of a convex minimization problem (CMP), which is also a unique solution of a triple hierarchical variational inequality (THVI) in a real Hilbert space. In addition, we also consider the application of the proposed algorithm to solving a hierarchical variational inequality problem with constraints of the GMEP, the CMP, and finitely many variational inclusions.
Roles of TLR3 and RIG-I in Mediating the Inflammatory Response in Mouse Microglia following Japanese Encephalitis Virus Infection
Authors: Jiang Rong , Ye Jing , Zhu Bibo , Song Yunfeng , Chen Huanchun , Cao Shengbo
Published: July 2014

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infection can cause central nervous system disease with irreversible neurological damage in humans and animals. Evidence suggests that overactivation of microglia leads to greatly increased neuronal damage during JEV infection. However, the mechanism by which JEV induces the activation of microglia remains unclear. Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) and retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) can recognize double-stranded RNA, and their downstream signaling results in production of proinflammatory mediators. In this study, we investigated the roles of TLR3 and RIG-I in the inflammatory response caused by JEV infection in the mouse microglial cell line. JEV infection induced the expression of TLR3 and RIG-I and the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK). Knockdown of TLR3 and RIG-I attenuated activation of ERK, p38MAPK, activator protein 1 (AP-1), and nuclear factorκB (NF-κB). Secretion of TNF-α, IL-6, and CCL-2, which was induced by JEV, was reduced by TLR3 and RIG-I knockdown and inhibitors of phosphorylated ERK and p38MAPK. Furthermore, viral proliferation was increased following knockdown of TLR3 and RIG-I. Our findings suggest that the signaling pathways of TLR3 and RIG-I play important roles in the JEV-induced inflammatory response of microglia.
Evaluation of the Anti-Inflammatory and Antinociceptive Effects of the Essential Oil from Leaves ofXylopia laevigatain Experimental Models
Authors: Queiroz João Carlos C. , Antoniolli Ângelo R. , Quintans-Júnior Lucindo J. , Brito Renan G. , Barreto Rosana S. S. , Costa Emmanoel V. , da Silva Thanany B. , Prata Ana Paula Nascimento , de Lucca Waldecy , Almeida Jackson R. G. S. , Lima Julianeli T. , Quintans Jullyana S. S.
Published: July 2014

Xylopia laevigata(Annonaceae) is a medicinal plant used in folk medicine to treat pain and inflammation. Thus, we investigated the possible antioxidant, antinociceptive, and anti-inflammatory effects ofX. laevigataleaf essential oil (EOX) in animal models. Our EOX sample showed the presence ofγ-muurolene (17.78%),δ-cadinene (12.23%), bicyclogermacrene (7.77%), andα-copaene (7.17%) as main compounds. EOX presented a strong antioxidant potential according to the DPPH, TBARS, and nitrite production tests. Additionally, pretreatment with EOX, in mice, also significantly produced (P<0.05orP<0.001) antinociceptive effect by reduction of nociceptive behavior (in formalin and writhing tests). The EOX showed c-Fos label in the olfactory bulb, piriform cortex, and periaqueductal gray. Acute administration of EOX exhibited a significant (P<0.01orP<0.001) anti-inflammatory profile in the carrageenan-induced peritonitis and by the carrageenan-induced hindpaw edema tests in mice. Our results provide evidence for the use ofX. laevigataby traditional medicine practitioners in the management of pain and inflammatory disorders.
Root Canal Treatment of Mandibular Second Premolar with Three Separate Roots and Canals Using Spiral Computed Tomographic
Authors: Hariharavel V. P. , Kumar A. Ashok , Ganesh C. , Annamalai Sankar , Ramar Kavitha , Aravindhan R.
Published: July 2014

Anatomic and internal morphology of a root canal system is more complex and differs for each individual tooth of which mandibular premolars have earned the reputation for having aberrant anatomy. The occurrence of three canals with three separate foramina in mandibular second premolars is very rare. A wider knowledge on both clinical and radiological anatomy especially spiral computed tomographic is absolutely essential for the success of endodontic treatment. These teeth may require skillful and special root canal special shaping and obturating techniques. This paper reports an unusual case of a mandibular second premolar with atypical canal pattern that was successfully treated endodontically.
Modeling of Scale-Dependent Bacterial Growth by Chemical Kinetics Approach
Authors: Martínez Haydee , Sánchez Joaquín , Cruz José-Manuel , Ayala Guadalupe , Rivera Marco , Buhse Thomas
Published: July 2014

We applied the so-called chemical kinetics approach to complex bacterial growth patterns that were dependent on the liquid-surface-area-to-volume ratio (SA/V) of the bacterial cultures. The kinetic modeling was based on current experimental knowledge in terms of autocatalytic bacterial growth, its inhibition by the metabolite CO2, and the relief of inhibition through the physical escape of the inhibitor. The model quantitatively reproduces kinetic data of SA/V-dependent bacterial growth and can discriminate between differences in the growth dynamics of enteropathogenicE. coli,E. coli  JM83, andSalmonella typhimuriumon one hand andVibrio choleraeon the other hand. Furthermore, the data fitting procedures allowed predictions about the velocities of the involved key processes and the potential behavior in an open-flow bacterial chemostat, revealing an oscillatory approach to the stationary states.
A Method to Determine Oscillation Emergence Bifurcation in Time-Delayed LTI System with Single Lag
Authors: Xiaodan Yu , Hongjie Jia , Chengshan Wang , Yilang Jiang
Published: July 2014

One type of bifurcation named oscillation emergence bifurcation (OEB) found in time-delayed linear time invariant (abbr. LTI) systems is fully studied. The definition of OEB is initially put forward according to the eigenvalue variation. It is revealed that a real eigenvalue splits into a pair of conjugated complex eigenvalues when an OEB occurs, which means the number of the system eigenvalues will increase by one and a new oscillation mode will emerge. Next, a method to determine OEB bifurcation in the time-delayed LTI system with single lag is developed based on Lambert W function. A one-dimensional (1-dim) time-delayed system is firstly employed to explain the mechanism of OEB bifurcation. Then, methods to determine the OEB bifurcation in 1-dim, 2-dim, and high-dimension time-delayed LTI systems are derived. Finally, simulation results validate the correctness and effectiveness of the presented method. Since OEB bifurcation occurs with a new oscillation mode emerging, work of this paper is useful to explore the complex phenomena and the stability of time-delayed dynamic systems.
The Laws of Natural Deduction in Inference by DNA Computer
Authors: Rogowski Łukasz , Sosík Petr
Published: July 2014

We present a DNA-based implementation of reaction system with molecules encoding elements of the propositional logic, that is, propositions and formulas. The protocol can perform inference steps using, for example,modus ponensandmodus tollensrules and de Morgan’s laws. The set of the implemented operations allows for inference of formulas using the laws of natural deduction. The system can also detect whether a certain propositionacan be deduced from the basic facts and given rules. The whole protocol is fully autonomous; that is, after introducing the initial set of molecules, no human assistance is needed. Only one restriction enzyme is used throughout the inference process. Unlike some other similar implementations, our improved design allows representing simultaneously a factaand its negation ~a, including special reactions to detect the inconsistency, that is, a simultaneous occurrence of a fact and its negation. An analysis of correctness, completeness, and complexity is included.
Shoshin Beriberi Induced by Long-Term Administration of Diuretics: A Case Report
Authors: Misumida Naoki , Umeda Hisashi , Iwase Mitsunori
Published: July 2014

Previous studies have suggested that diuretic therapy for heart failure may lead to thiamine deficiency due to the increased urinary thiamine excretion. Herein, we present the case of a 61-year-old man with shoshin beriberi, a fulminant form of wet beriberi, induced by long-term diuretic therapy. The patient had a history of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and was receiving furosemide and trichlormethiazide therapy. He presented with worsening exertional dyspnea and was admitted for heart failure exacerbation. His condition failed to improve even after intensive treatment. A hemodynamic evaluation with the Swan-Ganz catheter revealed high-output heart failure with low peripheral vascular resistance. Thiamine was administered for suspected shoshin beriberi; his hemodynamic status improved dramatically within the next six hours. The serum thiamine level was below the normal range; the patient was therefore diagnosed with shoshin beriberi. The common causes of thiamine deficiency were not identified. Long-term diuretic therapy with furosemide and thiazide was thought to have played a major role in the development of thiamine deficiency. This case illustrates the importance of considering wet beriberi as a possible cause of heart failure exacerbation in patients taking diuretics, even when the common thiamine deficiency causes are not identified with history-taking.
Quality Assurance of Multiport Image-Guided Minimally Invasive Surgery at the Lateral Skull Base
Authors: Nau-Hermes Maria , Schmitt Robert , Becker Meike , El-Hakimi Wissam , Hansen Stefan , Klenzner Thomas , Schipper Jörg
Published: July 2014

For multiport image-guided minimally invasive surgery at the lateral skull base a quality management is necessary to avoid the damage of closely spaced critical neurovascular structures. So far there is no standardized method applicable independently from the surgery. Therefore, we adapt a quality management method, the quality gates (QG), which is well established in, for example, the automotive industry and apply it to multiport image-guided minimally invasive surgery. QG divide a process into different sections. Passing between sections can only be achieved if previously defined requirements are fulfilled which secures the process chain. An interdisciplinary team of otosurgeons, computer scientists, and engineers has worked together to define the quality gates and the corresponding criteria that need to be fulfilled before passing each quality gate. In order to evaluate the defined QG and their criteria, the new surgery method was applied with a first prototype at a human skull cadaver model. We show that the QG method can ensure a safe multiport minimally invasive surgical process at the lateral skull base. Therewith, we present an approach towards the standardization of quality assurance of surgical processes.
Numerical and Experimental Study of the Flow Field Structure Evolution in the Circular Recess of Oil Cavity
Authors: Shen Feng , Chen Conglian , Liu Zhaomiao
Published: July 2014

The laminar radial flow in the oil cavity of heavy‐duty computer numerical control (CNC) machines is very complicated and has not been fully explored. Navier‐Stokes equations have been applied through the whole flow region using finite volume approach to explore this complicated flow phenomenon, including the influences of the clearance height (h), inlet nozzle Reynolds number (Re), and geometrical aspect ratio (e) on flow behaviors. A fluid dynamic experiment has been conducted to study the flow structure by using particle image velocimetry (PIV). Numerical simulation results have been compared with the experimental results, finding a good agreement with the studied cases. The results suggest that there are complex vortices in the oil cavity. Flow field structure of the oil cavity largely depends on h, Re, and e. Re and e have a great influence on the size and amount of vortices, and h has slight effects on the size of the vortices. The lengths of primary, secondary, and tertiary isolated vortices have a linear relationship with h. The lengths of the primary and secondary isolated vortices increase linearly with ascending e as e is small. But when Re and e are large enough, the size of the three vortices decreases.
Cephalometric Approach to the Occlusal Vertical Dimension Reestablishment
Authors: Zielak João César , Gulin Neto David , Cunha Leonardo Fernandes da , Deliberador Tatiana Miranda , Giovanini Allan Fernando
Published: July 2014

The occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) refers to the length of the face as determined by the amount of separation of the jaws. Its determination is important for the manufacture of restorations. However, defining the correct occlusal vertical dimension for edentulous patients is one of the most important steps for function and esthetics rehabilitation. Cephalometry is a standardized method of assessing dental and facial proportions and their interrelation. Additionally, cephalometric analysis of the facial vertical dimension can establish an individual pattern for each patient. This analysis should become a permanent part of each patient’s record. Hence, this study presented a case report with the use of cephalometry as an auxiliary tool in the rehabilitation of OVD. Clinical relevance showed that cephalometric analysis can be an accurate and convenient instrument to treatment planning and prognostic of oral rehabilitation. The reader should understand the clinical implications of using cephalometry as a tool in the rehabilitation of OVD.
Optimal Machine Tools Selection Using Interval‐Valued Data FCM Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Xin Yupeng , Tian Xitian , Huang Lijiang
Published: July 2014

Machine tool selection directly affects production rates, accuracy, and flexibility. In order to quickly and accurately select the appropriate machine tools in machining process planning, this paper proposes an optimal machine tools selection method based on interval‐valued data fuzzy C‐means (FCM) clustering algorithm. We define the machining capability meta (MAE) as the smallest unit to describe machining capacity of machine tools and establish MAE library based on the MAE information model. According to the manufacturing process requirements, the MAEs can be queried from MAE library. Subsequently, interval‐valued data FCM algorithm is used to select the appropriate machine tools for manufacturing process. Through computing matching degree between manufacturing process machining constraints and MAEs, we get the most appropriate MAEs and the corresponding machine tools. Finally, a case study of an exhaust duct part of the aeroengine is presented to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method.
Probiotic Potential ofLactobacillusStrains with Antimicrobial Activity against Some Human Pathogenic Strains
Authors: Shokryazdan Parisa , Sieo Chin Chin , Kalavathy Ramasamy , Liang Juan Boo , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu , Faseleh Jahromi Mohammad , Ho Yin Wan
Published: July 2014

The objective of this study was to isolate, identify, and characterize some lactic acid bacterial strains from human milk, infant feces, and fermented grapes and dates, as potential probiotics with antimicrobial activity against some human pathogenic strains. One hundred and forty bacterial strains were isolated and, after initial identification and a preliminary screening for acid and bile tolerance, nine of the best isolates were selected and further identified using 16 S rRNA gene sequences. The nine selected isolates were then characterizedin vitrofor their probiotic characteristics and their antimicrobial activities against some human pathogens. Results showed that all nine isolates belonged to the genusLactobacillus. They were able to tolerate pH 3 for 3 h, 0.3% bile salts for 4 h, and 1.9 mg/mL pancreatic enzymes for 3 h. They exhibited good ability to attach to intestinal epithelial cells and were not resistant to the tested antibiotics. They also showed good antimicrobial activities against the tested pathogenic strains of humans, and most of them exhibited stronger antimicrobial activity than the reference strainL. caseiShirota. Thus, the nineLactobacillusstrains could be considered as potential antimicrobial probiotic strains against human pathogens and should be further studied for their human health benefits.
TGF-βSignaling Cooperates with AT Motif-Binding Factor-1 for Repression of theα-Fetoprotein Promoter
Authors: Sakata Nobuo , Kaneko Satoshi , Ikeno Souichi , Miura Yutaka , Nakabayashi Hidekazu , Dong Xue-Yuan , Dong Jin-Tang , Tamaoki Taiki , Nakano Naoko , Itoh Susumu
Published: July 2014

α-Fetoprotein (AFP) is known to be highly produced in fetal liver despite its barely detectable level in normal adult liver. On the other hand, hepatocellular carcinoma often shows high expression of AFP. Thus, AFP seems to be an oncogenic marker. In our present study, we investigated how TGF-βsignaling cooperates with AT motif-binding factor-1 (ATBF1) to inhibitAFPtranscription. Indeed, the expression ofAFPmRNA in HuH-7 cells was negatively regulated by TGF-βsignaling. To further understand how TGF-βsuppresses the transcription of theAFPgene, we analyzed the activity of theAFPpromoter in the presence of TGF-β. We found that the TGF-βsignaling and ATBF1 suppressedAFPtranscription through two ATBF1 binding elements (AT-motifs). Using a heterologous reporter system, both AT-motifs were required for transcriptional repression upon TGF-βstimulation. Furthermore, Smads were found to interact with ATBF1 at both its N-terminal and C-terminal regions. Since the N-terminal (ATBF1N) and C-terminal regions of ATBF1 (ATBF1C) lack the ability of DNA binding, both truncated mutants rescued the cooperative inhibitory action by the TGF-βsignaling and ATBF1 in a dose-dependent manner. Taken together, these findings indicate that TGF-βsignaling can act in concert with ATBF1 to suppress the activity of theAFPpromoter through direct interaction of ATBF1 with Smads.
Neuroanatomy of the Human Hypothalamic Kisspeptin System
Authors: Hrabovszky Erik
Published: July 2014

Hypothalamic kisspeptin (KP) neurons are key players in the neuronal network that regulates the onset of puberty and the pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). In various mammalian species, the majority of KP-synthesizing neurons are concentrated in two distinct cell populations in the preoptic region and the arcuate nucleus (ARC). While studies of female rodents have provided evidence that preoptic KP neurons play a critical sex-specific role in positive estrogen feedback, KP neurons of the ARC have been implicated in negative sex steroid feedback and they have also been hypothesized to contribute to the pulse generator network which regulates episodic GnRH secretion in both females and males. Except for relatively few morphological studies available in monkeys and humans, our neuroanatomical knowledge of the hypothalamic KP systems is predominantly based on observations of laboratory species which are phylogenetically distant from the human. This review article discusses the currently available literature on the topographic distribution, network connectivity, neurochemistry, sexual dimorphism, and aging-dependent morphological plasticity of the human hypothalamic KP neuronal system.
Effects and Therapeutic Potentials of Kisspeptin Analogs: Regulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis
Authors: Matsui Hisanori , Asami Taiji
Published: July 2014

The hypothalamic peptide kisspeptin (metastin), the endogenous ligand of the G protein-coupled receptor KISS1R, plays a critical role in controlling GnRH release from hypothalamic GnRH neurons and thereby regulates hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal functions. Although the therapeutic potential of kisspeptin is attractive, its susceptibility to proteolytic degradation limits its utility. To overcome this, KISS1R agonists or antagonists as peptide analogs or small molecules have been investigated. Kisspeptin analogs have been most extensively studied by reducing the length of the peptide from the original 54 amino acids to 10 amino acids or less and by substituting key amino acid residues. Also, 2 investigational kisspeptin agonist analogs have been evaluated in clinical studies in men; in agreement with animal studies, abrupt elevations in gonadotropin and testosterone levels were observed as an acute effect, followed by rapid reductions in these hormones as a chronic effect. Some studies of small-molecule KISS1R antagonists have also been published. In this review, we present a brief overview on kisspeptin/KISS1R physiology in reproductive functions and summarize the available knowledge of both agonists and antagonists. We also focus on the kisspeptin agonist analogs by summarizing key pharmacological findings from both clinical and preclinical studies, and discuss their potential therapeutic utility.
The Comparison of Thyroxine versus Thyroxine plus Oral Iodine in the Treatment of Congenital Hypothyroidism due to Iodine Deficiency
Authors: Kurtoğlu Selim , Köroğlu Şenol , Baştuğ Osman , Daar Ghaniya , Yıkılmaz Ali , Elmalı Ferhan
Published: July 2014

Aim: Iodine deficiency is one of the most important causes of congenital hypothyroidism. In addition to thyroid hormone replacement, iodine supplementation is also given to newborns with congenital hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency. We aimed to determine whether it is beneficial to administer iodine supplementation in addition to the L-thyroxine (L-T4) treatment of newborns with congenital hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency. Materials and Methods: Of 51 newborns, 26 who were diagnosed with congenital hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency were treated with L-T4. The remaining 25 cases were given L-T4 plus 100 μg/day of oral iodine. Free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroglobulin (TG), thyroid volume, urine iodine and breast milk iodine levels were measured in the first and third months of treatment, and the data were compared between the two groups. Results: First- and third-month values of fT3, fT4, TSH, TG and thyroid volume for both groups were statistically similar. There was no significant difference between the two groups in respect to falling levels of fT3 and TSH, the rate of increase of fT4 levels or the shrinkage rate of thyroid volume. Conclusion: In this study, the addition of oral iodine to L-T4 treatment provided no benefit compared to treatment with L-T4 alone.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Proven by Transient Elastography in Hemodialysis Patients: Is It a New Risk Factor for Adverse Cardiovascular Events?
Authors: Mikolasevic Ivana , Orlic Lidija , Milic Sandra , Zaputovic Luka , Lukenda Vesna , Racki Sanjin
Published: July 2014

Background/Aims: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Recently, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been recognized as a new risk factor for adverse CVD events in the general population. Our aim was to analyze the incidence of NAFLD in HD patients by using transient elastography and to analyze whether the presence of NAFLD is associated with a higher CVD risk in HD patients. Methods: The subjects were 72 HD patients and 50 sex- and age-matched controls. Results: NAFLD was found in 52.8% of HD patients. HD patients with NAFLD showed more carotid atherosclerosis and more adverse CVD events than HD patients without NAFLD and control subjects. Conclusion: We showed for the first time that HD patients have a high prevalence of NAFLD. HD patients with NAFLD show an advanced carotid atherosclerosis. Detection of NAFLD by transient elastography should alert to the existence of an increased cardiovascular risk in HD patients.
Ischemia/Reperfusion of Unilateral Kidney Exaggerates Aging-Induced Damage to the Heart and Contralateral Kidney
Authors: Kato Junichiro , Nakayama Masaaki , Zhu Wan-Jun , Yokoo Takashi , Ito Sadayoshi
Published: July 2014

Aims: We aimed to determine the impact of aging on ischemic acute kidney injury, especially in terms of the pathological mechanisms of kidney and heart crosstalk. Method: The effects of 45 min of unilateral ischemic reperfusion (IR) of the renal artery on the contralateral kidney and heart were histologically assessed in 7- and 40-week-old SD rats after 7 days. Results: Glomerular sclerosis, interstitial fibrosis and numbers of ED1 cells were significantly increased in the contralateral kidneys of the 40-, but not the 7-week-old rats. The numbers of ED1 cells in the heart significantly and similarly increased in both groups, but reactive fibrosis after IR was significant only in the 40-week-old rats. The exaggerated profibrotic response induced by aging seemed to be closely associated with the increased number of ED1 cells in the affected area. Conclusion: Aging could play a major role in exaggerating the pathological processes of inflammation to fibrosis in remote organs including the heart and the nonischemic kidney after IR stimulation of the unilateral kidney.
Risk Factors That Affect Life Expectancy in Alzheimer's Disease: A 15-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Wattmo Carina , Londos Elisabet , Minthon Lennart
Published: July 2014

Backgrounds/Aims: Future disease-modifying therapies might affect the expected life span in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our aim was to identify factors that influence life expectancy in cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI)-treated patients. Methods: This study included 791 deceased individuals with a clinical diagnosis of AD and a Mini-Mental State Examination score of 10-26 at baseline who were recruited from a 3-year, prospective, multicenter study of ChEI therapy in clinical practice. The participants' date of death was recorded and their survival was compared with the gender- and age-matched general population. Results: The mean survival time after the start of ChEI therapy (time of AD diagnosis) was 5.10 years for men and 6.12 years for women. Better cognitive ability, less impaired basic functional capacity, and fewer medications, but not education level or apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype, were independent prognostic factors of longer survival after diagnosis, after controlling for gender and age. Conclusion: AD shortens life expectancy in ChEI-treated patients diagnosed before the age of 85 years, similar to that reported previously for untreated individuals. A longer life span was observed in the eldest patients (≥85 years) compared with untreated cohorts, which did not differ from that observed in the general population. Higher education or carrying two APOE ε4 alleles were risk factors for earlier death.
Total Body Water and Failure to Control Blood Pressure by Medication in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Santi Xavier Patrícia , Perez Vogt Bárbara , Cuadrado Martin Luis , Vaninni Francieli , Araújo Antunes Aline , Ponce Daniela , Costa Teixeira Caramori Jacqueline , dos Santos e Silva Martin Rosana , da Silva Franco Roberto Jorge , Barretti Pasqual
Published: July 2014

Background: Volume overload is the main factor responsible for the pathogenesis of hypertension in dialysis patients. Few studies have evaluated the interpretation of the parameters obtained by bioelectrical impedance (BIA) to manage these patients. The aim of this study was to assess the best cutoff level of volume overload obtained by BIA able to predict the absence of hypertension control in hemodialysis patients. Methods: Volume overload was calculated as the difference between total body water (TBW) measured by bioimpedance and TBW estimated by the Watson formula in chronic stable hemodialysis patients. Inadequate control of blood pressure (BP) was defined as the mean of measurements obtained before five hemodialysis sessions ≥140 × 90 mm Hg. The best cutoff level of volume overload assessed by BIA able to predict the absence of BP control in patients on chronic hemodialysis was determined by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve using the Youden method. Results: We included 205 patients, 53% male, aged 56 ± 14.5 years. The largest area under the ROC curve was found for predialysis volume overload (0.660, 95% CI 0.556-0.765, p = 0.004). The ROC curve of postdialysis volume overload also reaches statistical significance. The best cutoff point was found for predialysis volume overload ≥1.4 liters with a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 67%. Conclusion: The association of TBW and inadequate BP control highlights the importance of volume management in hemodialysis patients. Predialysis volume overload of 1.4 liters was the parameter that best discriminated the presence of inadequate BP control.
Effect Size (Cohen's d) of Cognitive Screening Instruments Examined in Pragmatic Diagnostic Accuracy Studies
Authors: Larner Andrew J.
Published: July 2014

Background/Aims: Many cognitive screening instruments (CSI) are available to clinicians to assess cognitive function. The optimal method comparing the diagnostic utility of such tests is uncertain. The effect size (Cohen's d), calculated as the difference of the means of two groups divided by the weighted pooled standard deviations of these groups, may permit such comparisons. Methods: Datasets from five pragmatic diagnostic accuracy studies, which examined the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Mini-Mental Parkinson (MMP), the Six-Item Cognitive Impairment Test (6CIT), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the Test Your Memory test (TYM), and the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination-Revised (ACE-R), were analysed to calculate the effect size (Cohen's d) for the diagnosis of dementia versus no dementia and for the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment versus no dementia (subjective memory impairment). Results: The effect sizes for dementia versus no dementia diagnosis were large for all six CSI examined (range 1.59-1.87). For the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment versus no dementia, the effect sizes ranged from medium to large (range 0.48-1.45), with MoCA having the largest effect size. Conclusion: The calculation of the effect size (Cohen's d) in diagnostic accuracy studies is straightforward. The routine incorporation of effect size calculations into diagnostic accuracy studies merits consideration in order to facilitate the comparison of the relative value of CSI.