bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors Associated with the Occurrence of Gastrointestinal Helminths among Indigenous Donkeys (Equus asinus) in Northeastern Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed Jajere Saleh , Rabana Lawal Jallailudeen , Mohammed Bello Amina , Wakil Yakaka , Aliyu Turaki Usman , Waziri Ibrahim
Published: June 2016

Aim. This survey study was conducted from April 2014 through March 2015 in Bauchi, Yobe, and Gombe states, northeastern Nigeria, to explore the risk factors associated with the occurrence of gastrointestinal helminthosis among indigenous donkeys (Equus asinus).Materials and Methods. A total of six hundred fresh faecal samples were randomly collected from indigenous donkeys of varying age, sex, and settlements. Simple flotation and sedimentation techniques were used for the detection of helminths eggs.Results. Three gastrointestinal nematode parasites were encountered includingStrongyle,Parascaris equorum, andOxyuris equi. An overall prevalence of 98.3% was obtained, of which 78.3%, 40.3%, and 17.5% were, respectively, fromStrongyle,Parascaris equorum, andOxyuris equi. Age, sex, and season were not statistically associated with the risk of helminth infection as were the different study areas (p>0.05). However, body condition score, settlement, anthelminthic medication history, and management practices were significantly associated with the risk of gastrointestinal helminthosis. Statistically high prevalence of helminthic infections was observed in donkeys, with poor (thin) body condition, from rural settlements, that were not dewormed and raised under poor management systems (p<0.001).Conclusion. It is concluded from the study that gastrointestinal helminths particularlyStrongylewere endemic among the indigenous donkeys in northeastern Nigeria. Further control and preventive measures were discussed.
Modulation of Circulating MicroRNAs Levels during the Switch from Clopidogrel to Ticagrelor
Authors: Carino Annarita , De Rosa Salvatore , Sorrentino Sabato , Polimeni Alberto , Sabatino Jolanda , Caiazzo Gianluca , Torella Daniele , Spaccarotella Carmen , Mongiardo Annalisa , Strangio Antonio , Filippis Carol , Indolfi Ciro
Published: June 2016

Background. Circulating microRNAs are appealing biomarkers to monitor several processes underlying cardiovascular diseases. Platelets are a major source for circulating microRNAs. Interestingly, the levels of specific microRNAs were reported to correlate with the level of platelet activation. The aim of the present study was to test whether the treatment with the novel antiplatelet agent, ticagrelor, is associated with modulation in the levels of key platelet-derived microRNAs.Methods and Results. Patients were randomly selected from those participating in the SHIFT-OVER study, in which we had previously evaluated the effect of the therapeutic switch from clopidogrel to ticagrelor on platelet aggregation. Circulating levels of selected microRNAs were measured before and after the therapeutic switch from a dual antiplatelet therapy including acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and clopidogrel to the more potent ticagrelor. Interestingly, the circulating levels of miR-126 (p=0.030), miR-223 (p=0.044), and miR-150 (p=0.048) were significantly reduced, while the levels of miR-96 were increased (p=0.038). No substantial differences were observed for the remaining microRNAs.Conclusions. Switching from a dual antiplatelet treatment with clopidogrel to ticagrelor is associated with significant modulation in the circulating levels of specific microRNAs. If confirmed in larger, independent cohorts, our results pave the way for the use of circulating microRNAs as biomarkers of platelets activity in response to specific pharmacological treatments.
Study on the Seismic Active Earth Pressure by Variational Limit Equilibrium Method
Authors: Chen Jiangong , Yang Zejun , Hu Richeng , Zhang Haiquan
Published: June 2016

In the framework of limit equilibrium theory, the isoperimetric model of functional extremum regarding the seismic active earth pressure is deduced according to the variational method. On this basis, Lagrange multipliers are introduced to convert the problem of seismic active earth pressure into the problem on the functional extremum of two undetermined function arguments. Based on the necessary conditions required for the existence of functional extremum, the function of the slip surface and the normal stress distribution on the slip surface is obtained, and the functional extremum problem is further converted into a function optimization problem with two undetermined Lagrange multipliers. The calculated results show that the slip surface is a plane and the seismic active earth pressure is minimal when the action point is at the lower limit position. As the action point moves upward, the slip surface becomes a logarithmic spiral and the corresponding value of seismic active earth pressure increases in a nonlinear manner. And the seismic active earth pressure is maximal at the upper limit position. The interval estimation constructed by the minimum and maximum values of seismic active earth pressure can provide a reference for the aseismic design of gravity retaining walls.
Hopf Bifurcation of Compound Stochastic van der Pol System
Authors: Ma Shaojuan , Zhang Qianling
Published: June 2016

Hopf bifurcation analysis for compound stochastic van der Pol system with a bound random parameter and Gaussian white noise is investigated in this paper. By the Karhunen-Loeve (K-L) expansion and the orthogonal polynomial approximation, the equivalent deterministic van der Pol system can be deduced. Based on the bifurcation theory of nonlinear deterministic system, the critical value of bifurcation parameter is obtained and the influence of random strengthδand noise intensityσon stochastic Hopf bifurcation in compound stochastic system is discussed. At last we found that increasedδcan relocate the critical value of bifurcation parameter forward while increasedσmakes it backward and the influence ofδis more sensitive thanσ. The results are verified by numerical simulations.
An Optimized Data Obtaining Strategy for Large-Scale Sensor Monitoring Networks
Authors: Wang Yan , Wang Junlu , Wang Fengtong , Wang Ling , Wei Wei
Published: June 2016

As the technology of the Internet of Things (IoT) becomes more widely used in large-scale monitoring networks, this paper proposes an optimized obtaining strategy (OFS) for large-scale sensor monitoring networks. First, because of the large-scale features of sensor node network, this paper proposes a large-scale monitoring network area clustering optimization strategy. Second, based on the characteristics of regular changes in the sensed data in large-scale monitoring networks, this paper proposes a strategy for acquiring sensor data based on an adaptive frequency conversion. The OFS optimization strategy can prolong network lifetime, reduce the transmission bandwidth resources, and reduce average energy consumption of the cluster head and network energy consumption.
Optimal Control Applied to an Irrigation Planning Problem
Authors: Lopes Sofia O. , Fontes Fernando A. C. C. , Pereira Rui M. S. , de Pinho MdR , Gonçalves A. Manuela
Published: June 2016

We propose a mathematical model to study the water usage for the irrigation of given farmland to guarantee that the field crop is kept in a good state of preservation. This problem is formulated as an optimal control problem. The lack of analytic solution leads us to turn to numerical methods to solve the problem numerically. We then apply necessary conditions of optimality to validate the numerical solution. To deal with the high degree of unpredictability of water inflow due to weather, we further propose a replan strategy and we implement it.
Association between Reactive Attachment Disorder/Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder and Emerging Personality Disorder: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Mirza Khadija , Mwimba Gracia , Pritchett Rachel , Davidson Claire
Published: June 2016

A systematic review of reactive attachment disorder (RAD)/disinhibited social engagement disorder (DSED) in adolescence highlighted that young people with the disorder had indiscriminate friendliness with difficulties in establishing and maintaining stable relationships. Most reported experiences of rejection. We were struck by similarities between the above and features of emergence of personality disorders (EPD). This feasibility study aimed to determine best ways of recruiting and retaining vulnerable young people and the proportion of participants with RAD/DSED who might have emerging borderline personality disorder (EBPD). Participants were referred to the study by their treating clinicians from local mental health teams. Results showed strong association between RAD/DSED and EBPD. Participant characteristics showed high levels of out of home placements, early termination of school careers, suicide attempts, quasipsychotic symptoms, and multiagency involvements. They experienced the project as an opportunity to talk about relationships and reported that they would like more of this in usual clinical contacts. They all agreed to be contacted for future studies. Previous studies have shown that early detection and treatment of emergent personality traits can alter trajectory. Future research will continue to explore these trajectories, explore detection of vulnerability factors, and evaluate interventions.
Stiffness-Displacement Correlation from the RC Shear Wall Tests of the SAFE Program: Derivation of a Capacity Line Model
Authors: Molina Francisco J. , Pegon Pierre , Labbé Pierre
Published: June 2016

The response of 13 reinforced concrete shear walls submitted to successive seismic tests has been postprocessed to produce time histories of secant stiffness and displacement oscillation amplitude. For every wall an envelope curve of displacement amplitude versus stiffness is identified which is fairly modelled by a straight line in double logarithmic scale. This relatively simple model, when used as a capacity line in combination with the demand response spectrum, is able to predict in an approximate manner the maximum response to the applied earthquakes. Moreover, the graphic representation of the demand spectrum and a unique model capacity line for a group of equal walls with different assumed design frequencies on them gives a visual interpretation of the different safety margins observed in the experiments for the respective walls. The same method allows as well constructing vulnerability curves for any design frequency or spectrum. Finally, the comparison of the different identified line models for the different walls allows us to assess the qualitative effect on the behaviour of parameters such as the reinforcement density or the added normal load.
Main Parameters Characterization of Bulk CMOS Cross-Like Hall Structures
Authors: Paun Maria-Alexandra
Published: June 2016

A detailed analysis of the cross-like Hall cells integrated in regular bulk CMOS technological process is performed. To this purpose their main parameters have been evaluated. A three-dimensional physical model was employed in order to evaluate the structures. On this occasion, numerical information on the input resistance, Hall voltage, conduction current, and electrical potential distribution has been obtained. Experimental results for the absolute sensitivity, offset, and offset temperature drift have also been provided. A quadratic behavior of the residual offset with the temperature was obtained and the temperature points leading to the minimum offset for the three Hall cells were identified.
Bactericide Effect of Silver Nanoparticles as a Final Irrigation Agent in Endodontics onEnterococcus faecalis: AnEx VivoStudy
Authors: González-Luna Pedro-IV , Martínez-Castañón Gabriel-Alejandro , Zavala-Alonso Norma-Verónica , Patiño-Marin Nuria , Niño-Martínez Nereyda , Morán-Martínez Javier , Ramírez-González Jorge-Humberto
Published: June 2016

The objective of this study was to determine the bactericidal effect of silver nanoparticles as a final irrigation agent in endodontics. This study included 120 uniradicular extracted dental organs inoculated withEnterococcus faecalis(E. faecalis) and organized into 4 groups: (A) 30 teeth irrigated with a dispersion of silver nanoparticles (537 μg/mL); (B) 30 teeth irrigated with a sodium hypochlorite solution (2.25%); (C) 30 teeth irrigated with a dispersion of silver nanoparticles (537 μg/mL) + EDTA (17%); and (D) 30 teeth with a saline solution. After the irrigation protocol, the samples were analyzed through a spectrophotometer to measure the bactericidal effect and scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope in order to observe the presence of dental smear layer. The results showed that nanoparticles of 10 nm and the sodium hypochlorite at 2.25% were effective for eliminatingE. faecalis, with no significant difference between them.
Environmentally Smart Nitrogen Performance in Northern Great Plains’ Spring Wheat Production Systems
Authors: Walsh Olga S. , Girma Kefyalew
Published: June 2016

Experiments were conducted in Montana to evaluate Environmentally Smart Nitrogen (ESN) as a nitrogen (N) source in wheat. Plots were arranged in a split-plot design with ESN, urea, and a 50%-50% urea-ESN blend at low, medium, and high at-seeding N rates in the subplot, with four replications. Measurements included grain yield (GY), protein (GP), and N uptake (GNU). A partial budget economic analysis was performed to assess the net benefits of the three sources. Average GY varied from 1816 to 5583 kg ha−1and grain protein (GP) content ranged from 9.1 to 17.3% among site-years. Urea, ESN, and the blend resulted in higher GYs at 3, 2, and 2 site-years out of 8 evaluated site-years, respectively. Topdressing N improved GY for all sources. No trend in GP associated with N source was observed. With GP-adjusted revenue, farmer would not recover investment costs from ESN or blend compared with urea. With ESN costing consistently more than urea per unit of N, we recommend urea as N source for spring wheat in Northern Great Plains.
Assessment of Prediction Capabilities of COCOSYS and CFX Code for Simplified Containment
Authors: Zhu Jia , Zhang Xiaohui , Cheng Xu
Published: June 2016

The acceptable accuracy for simulation of severe accident scenarios in containments of nuclear power plants is required to investigate the consequences of severe accidents and effectiveness of potential counter measures. For this purpose, the actual capability of CFX tool and COCOSYS code is assessed in prototypical geometries for simplified physical process-plume (due to a heat source) under adiabatic and convection boundary condition, respectively. Results of the comparison under adiabatic boundary condition show that good agreement is obtained among the analytical solution, COCOSYS prediction, and CFX prediction for zone temperature. The general trend of the temperature distribution along the vertical direction predicted by COCOSYS agrees with the CFX prediction except in dome, and this phenomenon is predicted well by CFX and failed to be reproduced by COCOSYS. Both COCOSYS and CFX indicate that there is no temperature stratification inside dome. CFX prediction shows that temperature stratification area occurs beneath the dome and away from the heat source. Temperature stratification area under adiabatic boundary condition is bigger than that under convection boundary condition. The results indicate that the average temperature inside containment predicted with COCOSYS model is overestimated under adiabatic boundary condition, while it is underestimated under convection boundary condition compared to CFX prediction.
Combined Parameter and State Estimation Algorithms for Multivariable Nonlinear Systems Using MIMO Wiener Models
Authors: Salhi Houda , Kamoun Samira
Published: June 2016

This paper deals with the parameter estimation problem for multivariable nonlinear systems described by MIMO state-space Wiener models. Recursive parameters and state estimation algorithms are presented using the least squares technique, the adjustable model, and the Kalman filter theory. The basic idea is to estimate jointly the parameters, the state vector, and the internal variables of MIMO Wiener models based on a specific decomposition technique to extract the internal vector and avoid problems related to invertibility assumption. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithms is shown by an illustrative simulation example.
Physical Activity and Gastric Residuals as Biomarkers for Region-Specific NEC Lesions in Preterm Neonates
Authors: Cao Muqing , Andersen Anders D. , Li Yanqi , Thymann Thomas , Jing Jin , Sangild Per T.
Published: June 2016

Background: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious feeding-related inflammatory gut disease with high mortality. Early clinical markers of NEC are of great importance for optimizing preventive interventions. Objective: Using preterm pigs as models, we hypothesized that an early postnatal onset of NEC can be predicted by decreased physical activity during the first few days after birth. Methods: Cesarean-delivered preterm pigs were fed parenteral nutrition and increasing amounts of formula for 5 days after birth (n = 120). Their physical activity was quantified by a continuous camera surveillance system and they were evaluated twice daily for clinical signs of apathy, discoloration, respiratory distress, abdominal distension and diarrhea. The volume of gastric residuals and the presence of macroscopic NEC-like lesions in the stomach, intestine and colon were recorded at euthanasia on day 5. Results: Half of the pigs (48%) showed clear NEC-like lesions on day 5, and these individuals had more adverse clinical symptoms from day 3 but decreased physical activity already from day 2 relative to the unaffected pigs (both p < 0.05). Only animals with NEC lesions in the small intestine had lower physical activity on days 2 and 3, and the increased volume of gastric residuals was specifically related to colon lesions (both p < 0.05). Conclusions: Decreased physical activity precedes the clinical symptoms of NEC in the small intestine of preterm pigs, and increased gastric residuals predict NEC lesions in the colon. Physical activity and gastric residuals may function as clinical biomarkers for region-specific NEC lesions in preterm neonates.
Neonatal Benzo[a]pyrene Exposure Induces Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage Causing Neurobehavioural Changes during the Early Adolescence Period in Rats
Authors: Patel Bhupesh , Das Saroj Kumar , Patri Manorama
Published: June 2016

Humans are exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) by ingestion of contaminated food and water. Prenatal exposure to benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) like PAHs through the placental barrier and neonatal exposure by breast milk and the environment may affect early brain development. In the present study, single intracisternal administration of B[a]P (0.2 and 2.0 µg/kg body weight) to male Wistar rat pups at postnatal day 5 (PND5) was carried out to study its specific effect on neonatal brain development and its consequences at PND30. B[a]P administration showed a significant increase in exploratory and anxiolytic-like behaviour with elevated hippocampal lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation at PND30. Further, DNA damage was estimated in vitro (Neuro2a and C6 cell lines) by the comet assay, and oxidative DNA damage of hippocampal sections was measured in vivo following exposure to B[a]P. DNA strand breaks (single and double) significantly increased due to B[a]P at PND30 in hippocampal neurons and increased the nuclear tail moment in Neuro2a cells. Hippocampal 8-oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine production was significantly elevated showing expression of more TUNEL-positive cells in both doses of B[a]P. Histological studies also revealed a significant reduction in mean area and perimeter of hippocampal neurons in rats treated with B[a]P 2.0 μg/kg, when compared to naïve and control rats. B[a]P significantly increased anxiolytic-like behaviour and oxidative DNA damage in the hippocampus causing apoptosis that may lead to neurodegeneration in adolescence. The findings of the present study address the potential role of B[a]P in inducing oxidative stress-mediated neurodegeneration in the hippocampus through oxidative DNA damage in the early adolescence period of rats.
Keloidal Atypical Fibroxanthoma: Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Tongdee Emily  , Touloei Khasha  , Shitabata Paul K. , Shareef Shahjahan  , Maranda Eric L.
Published: June 2016

Keloidal atypical fibroxanthoma (KAF) has recently been categorized as a variant of atypical fibroxanthoma. This paper will emphasize the importance of including KAF in both clinical and histological differential diagnosis of benign and malignant lesions which exhibit keloidal collagen and will also review the current literature on epidemiology, pathogenesis, histology, immunochemistry and treatments.
Prognostic Factors and Multidisciplinary Postoperative Chemoradiotherapy for Clinical T4a Tongue Cancer
Authors: Yokota Tomoya , Iida Yoshiyuki , Ogawa Hirofumi , Kamijo Tomoyuki , Onozawa Yusuke , Todaka Akiko , Hamauchi Satoshi , Onoe Tsuyoshi , Nakagawa Masahiro , Yurikusa Takashi , Tanuma Akira , Yamashita Aiko , Nishimura Tetsuo , Yasui Hirofumi , Onitsuka Tetsuro
Published: June 2016

Objective: The prognosis of patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the tongue is poor. Postoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) improves locoregional control and survival in high-risk patients. We investigated the prognostic factors for clinical T4a tongue SCC, and elucidated whether postoperative CRT has a benefit for patients with poor prognosis in terms of survival. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 61 patients with stage T4a SCC of the tongue who underwent primary resection and neck dissection. Results: The median follow-up was 53.8 months. Multivariate analysis revealed a 4.26× relative risk of death for patients with the involvement of ≥5 regional lymph nodes (pN ≥5) compared with those with pN 0-4 (p = 0.002). In Kaplan-Meier analysis, patients with pN ≥5 who received CRT had longer overall survival rates than those who did not (hazard ratio = 0.31; p = 0.041). Conclusions: pN ≥5 is the most powerful prognostic factor for clinical T4a SCC of the tongue. Postoperative CRT is recommended in patients with pN ≥5.
Reversible Valproate Induced Pisa Syndrome and Parkinsonism in a Neuro-Oncology Patient with Depression and Epilepsy
Authors: Botturi Andrea , Silvani Antonio , Pravettoni Gabriella , Paoli Riccardo Augusto , Lucchiari Claudio
Published: June 2016

Neurological and psychiatric conditions frequently overlap in neuro-oncology. This overlapping negatively affects patients’ quality of life and decreases the ability of providers to manage specific symptoms by therapy modulation, especially when psychopharmacotherapy needs to be prescribed. We describe here a patient with recurrent brain tumor, symptomatic epilepsy and depression who developed Pisa syndrome and parkinsonism after several months of valproic acid use. An accurate recognition of symptoms and treatment side effect allowed an appropriate clinical approach so as to rapidly improve both movement disorder and depression without increasing the risk of developing seizure. This has improved the autonomy and quality of life in a patient with poor prognosis.
Slow-Growing Early Adenocarcinoma Arising from Traditional Serrated Adenoma in the Duodenum
Authors: Park Yoon Kyoo , Jeong Woo Jin , Cheon Gab Jin
Published: June 2016

Serrated polyps are classified into 3 distinct types: hyperplastic polyp, sessile serrated adenoma, or transitional serrated adenoma. A serrated adenoma is a precursor lesion for colorectal carcinoma. Serrated polyps are commonly found in the colorectum but have rarely been described in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Serrated adenomas in the small intestine may represent aggressive lesions with high malignant potential, according to some reports. A 66-year-old man with no significant medical history underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) for general examination. He had a 1-cm sized, Yamada type IV polyp, with focal white patch in the second portion of the duodenum. The biopsy result revealed gastric metaplasia and chronic inflammation. He wanted regular follow -up examinations. The follow-up EGDs were done every year. There were no changes in the shape and size of the polyp. The pathologic findings were unchanged. Then, he underwent EGD for general medical check-up again 5 years after the first detection. The size of the polyp was slightly increased. The biopsy result revealed serrated polyp, unclassified. Endoscopic mucosal resection was done. The pathologic result revealed a 0.8 × 0.5-cm sized, well differentiated tubular adenocarcinoma. Carcinomas are multifocally spread on the traditional serrated adenoma, and the proportion of the adenocarcinoma component is approximately 50%. The tumor had invaded the lamina propria but confined to the mucosa. The resection margins were negative, and no lymphovascular invasion or perineural invasion was seen. Abdominal pelvic computed tomography and positron emission tomography showed no other solid organ involvement or metastasis. Surveillance follow-up EGDs were done after 3 months and 1 year. There was no evidence of recurrence.
Post Pelvic Radiotherapy Affectation of the Lower Urinary Tract Peripheral Innervation in Men
Authors: Méndez-Rubio Santiago , Salinas Casado Jesús , Vírseda Chamorro Miguel , Gutiérrez Martín Pablo , Esteban Fuertes Manuel , Moreno Sierra Jesús
Published: June 2016

Introduction: The periurethral electromyography (EMGs) alterations in men who underwent pelvic radiotherapy (RT), either isolated or combined with surgery, have not been frequently described in the literature. Objective: The study aimed to compare the EMG's data in men undergoing RT versus the non-irradiated control group. Material and Methods: The study included 61 consecutive males, who had undergone RT (27 of them had been operated) and 99 control consecutive patients who underwent a retrospective assessment. The EMGs were performed using a concentric electrode needle perineally, localizing the sphincter by visual and auditory signal (electromyograph MMS Solar Active). Results: 14.8% denervation, 62.9% reinnervation, 14.9% denervation + reinnervation and 7.4% EMG normal. The age (p < 0.001) and neurogenic bladder data (p < 0.001) are risk factors. The smaller the prostate size (obtained by rectal examination) post-RT, the more the chance for an abnormal EMG (p < 0.001). The fact of having had received RT (p < 0.001) is the only risk factor. Conclusion: RT produces lesions over the pudendal nerve, showing denervation even in late periods. The surgery did not behave as a risk factor.
Superior Mesenteric Vein Thrombosis Associated with Hormonal Contraceptive Use
Authors: Koyama Nobuatsu
Published: June 2016

A 44-year-old woman was admitted with a 7-day history of lower abdominal pain and nausea. Physical examination demonstrated tenderness in the lower abdomen without signs of peritonitis. There were no specific findings in the laboratory evaluation. She had a history of dysmenorrhea for 15 years and was taking a combined hormonal contraceptive containing 0.02 mg ethinyl estradiol and 3 mg drospirenone for 19 months. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (SMVT). Systemic anticoagulant infusion was immediately administered and the symptoms disappeared within 2 days. The thrombus disappeared after 3 months. This case report suggests that early diagnosis of SMVT and immediate systemic anticoagulant therapy may reduce the rate of intestinal infarction.
Thoracic Paravertebral Block versus Epidural Anesthesia Combined with Moderate Sedation for Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
Authors: Li Chengwen , Song Chengwei , Wang Weiguo , Song Chengjun , Kong Xiangang
Published: June 2016

Objective: To investigate the feasibility of thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in comparison with epidural anesthesia (EA) combined with moderate sedation. Subjects and Methods: One hundred American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I-II adult patients scheduled for first-stage unilateral PCNL were randomly assigned to receive either TPVB or EA. All patients were given standard sedation and analgesia with propofol and sufentanil. Patient characteristics, surgical outcomes, anesthetic outcomes, and time to first use of a patient-controlled intravenous analgesic (PCIA) device and postoperative consumption of sufentanil in the first 24 h were recorded. Intergroup differences of the parameters were analyzed using an independent t test, Mann-Whitney test, and χ2 test as appropriate. Results: Patients who received TPVB consumed more propofol during ureteroscopy (56.2 ± 28.4 vs. 42.9 ± 27.5 mg, p < 0.05) and more sufentanil during ureteroscopy (9.7 ± 4.8 vs. 3.9 ± 2.7 μg, p < 0.05) and during PCNL (7.0 ± 4.3 vs. 1.9 ± 1.8 μg, p < 0.05) than those who received EA. The volume fluids infused in patients who received TPVB was less than in those who received EA (854 ± 362 vs. 1,320 ± 468 ml, p < 0.05). Time to first PCIA use, postoperative 24-hour consumption of sufentanil, and other parameters were comparable between groups. Conclusions: In this study, TPVB was as effective and safe as EA in providing intraoperative anesthesia and postoperative analgesia for PCNL, although more sedatives and analgesics were used during PCNL in patients who received TPVB.
Capacitor Voltage Balancing of Five Level Diode Clamped Converter based STATCOM
Authors: Sindhuja D. , Yuvaraju M.E. V.
Published: June 2016

The power quality determines the fitness of the electrical power to the consumer devices. To improve the quality of the power delivered many compensating devices are used. The FACTS devices are normally used to reduce the power quality problems by inducing one or more AC transmission parameters. The static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) can act as either a source or sink of reactive AC power to an electricity network. The basic electronic block of the STATCOM is the voltage-source inverter that converts an input dc voltage into a three-phase output voltage. The STATCOM employs an inverter in order to obtain the voltage source of adjustable magnitude and phase from the DC link voltage on the capacitor. In this model, the STATCOM is designed with the five level diode clamped converter (DCC) controlled by space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) technique. The space vector technique with α, β frame is referred here. The dc link capacitor voltage equalization for the five level diode clamped converter was explained. The Total Harmonic Distortion of the source current will be considerably reduced.
Power Sharing for Inverters Based on Virtual Synchronous Generator Control
Authors: Hamid Hashim Hasabelrasul , Ahmed Amar Ibrahim Hamza
Published: June 2016

Power sharing is the most important challenging today, especially for parallel operation inverters. Recently to fixed this problem the virtual synchronous generator control strategy has been used. This paper introduced the parallel operation of three phase multilevel inverters with different capacities to share load power by used a newly strategy named VSG with droop method controller. The control strategy is used to make the inverters to emulate the transient , dynamic features of conventional synchronous generator and to gives accurate load sharing among the inverters in proportional to their ratings. To verify the performance of the proposed technique MATLAB/Simulink package for simulation experiment is established.
Extension of Linear Channels Identification Algorithms to Non Linear Using Selected Order Cumulants
Authors: Zidane Mohammed , Safi Said , Sabri Mohamed
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we present an extension of linear communication channels identification algorithms to non linear channels using higher order cumulants (HOC). In the one hand, we develop a theoretical analysis of non linear quadratic systems using second and third order cumulants. In the other hand, the relationship linking cumulants and the coefficients of non linear channels presented in the linear case is extended to the general case of the non linear quadratic systems identification. This theoretical development is used to develop three non linear algorithms based on third and fourth order cumulants respectively. Numerical simulation results example show that the proposed methods able to estimate the impulse response parameters
with different precision.
The Gender Effects of Heart Rate Variability Response during Short-Term Exercise using Stair Stepper from Statistical Analysis
Authors: Mohd Rosli Nor Aziyatul Izni , Abdul Rahman Mohd Azizi , Balakrishnan Malarvili , Komeda Takashi , Mazlan Saiful Amri , Zamzuri Hairi
Published: June 2016

This study is aimed to explore the Heart Rate Variability (HRV) response during short-term exercise by stair stepper and to compare the finding between young healthy male and female subjects. The responses were statistically analyzed by applying independent-samples t-test statistical method. The calculation of Coefficient of Variation (CoV (%)) and the slope of the linear regression is used to assess the steadiness of the HRV. Furthermore, the results also demonstrated that female subjects had greater significant p-value of RMSSD feature and significance p-value in a LF feature is greater in male. Thus, the ongoing results demonstrated that males have the sympathetic drive and females have predominant parasympathetic drive using short-term exercise by stepper. Thus, the experiment results indicate the suitability of developing rehabilitation devices in the field of Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), research, control system and rehabilitation enginering, which may help to isolate males and females.
Speech Enhancement based on Wiener Filter and Compressive Sensing
Authors: Sulong Amart , Gunawan Teddy Surya , Kartiwi Mira
Published: June 2016

In communication medium to satisfy the speech enhancement process by using differents methodologies and algoirthms are the key term in testing the system design well enough to produce the best performance results for the speech system. The Wiener filter is one of the classical algorithm that applied to speech process to avoid the noise attacking the speech signal. In other word, compressive sensing method by randomize measurement matrix are combined with the Wiener filter to analyse the noisy speech signal with less introduce to noise signal and producing high signal to noise ratio. The PESQ is used to measure the quality of the proposed algorithm design. As in the experimental results shows that, attacking of defferent noise environments in speech signal still effectively improve the performance of noisy speech with maintain the high score of the PESQ quality. 
Lifetime Prolonging for Clustered Heterogeneous Wireless Sensor Networks by SEP-FUZZY
Authors: Abood Basim , Shemyal Nisar Muhammed , Hussien Aliaa , Li Yu
Published: June 2016

The most important consideration in designing protocols for wireless sensor networks is the energy constraint of nodes because in most cases battery recharging is inconvenient or impossible. Therefore, many researches have been done to overcome this demerit. Clustering is one of the main approaches in designing scalable and energy-efficient protocols for WSNs.In this paper, we proposed a novel scheme to investigate the cluster, the Fuzzy Logic Cluster Stable Election Protocol (SEP - FUZZY), which uses Fuzzy Logic Inference System (FIS) in the cluster process. We compare our technique with two approaches (LEACH, and SEP) to show that using a multi parameter FIS enhances the network lifetime significantly. Simulation results demonstrate that the network lifetime achieved by the proposed method could be increased by nearly 27% more than that obtained by LEACH protocol, and by nearly 23% more than that obtained by Stable Election Protocol.
A Lightweight Symmetric Cryptography Scheme for Identifying Compromised Node in WSN
Authors: Maleh Yassine , Ezzati Abdellah
Published: June 2016

Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) is consisting of independent and distributed sensors to monitor physical or environmental conditions, such as temperature, sound, pressure, etc. The most crucial and fundamental challenge facing WSN is security. Due to minimum capacity in-term of memory cost, processing and physical accessibility to sensors devices the security attacks are problematic. They are mostly deployed in open area, which expose them to different kinds of attacks. In this paper, we present an illustration of different attacks and vulnerabilities in WSN. Then we proposed a new lightweight cryptography algorithm for identifying compromised node in WSN called Leap Enhanced. Our evaluations on TOSSIM give a precise and detailed idea of the extra cost of consumption of resources needed to ensure the high level of expected security compared to other cryptography schemes in literature.
Color Module Computer Aided Design in Indoor Environment
Authors: Pan Lifeng
Published: June 2016

In this study, a comprehensive solution set of strategies is proposed for interior color design. Computer aided design methods are utilized to solve the problems in the color scheme process, the existing circumstances, shortage and trend of current color scheme tools are analyzed based on interior design theory and modern design methodology. The appropriative color space is constructd to redound the process of special color selection，the tone harmonizing tool is built based on architecture exterior design，and  the color  knowledge database and scheme database are contrived，the rationality of the color scheme method is validated by integrated cases, the effective way of computer aided color design is obtained and  this method is applied to the instance of interior design, it provides a key module for the interior design system software. In the design process, the factors are taken such as color space property，color harmonizing effect，color tone classification, material and texture effect,  a viable color enactment is provided for modern interior design.
Worldwide Exposures to Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Associated Health Effects
Authors: Tzoulaki Ioanna , Elliott Paul , Kontis Vasilis , Ezzati Majid
Published: June 2016

Information on exposure to, and health effects of, cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors is needed to develop effective strategies to prevent CVD events and deaths. Here, we provide an overview of the data and evidence on worldwide exposures to CVD risk factors and the associated health effects. Global comparative risk assessment studies have estimated that hundreds of thousands or millions of CVD deaths are attributable to established CVD risk factors (high blood pressure and serum cholesterol, smoking, and high blood glucose), high body mass index, harmful alcohol use, some dietary and environmental exposures, and physical inactivity. The established risk factors plus body mass index are collectively responsible for ≈9.7 million annual CVD deaths, with high blood pressure accounting for more CVD deaths than any other risk factor. Age-standardized CVD death rates attributable to established risk factors plus high body mass index are lowest in high-income countries, followed by Latin America and the Caribbean; they are highest in the region of central and eastern Europe and central Asia. However, estimates of the health effects of CVD risk factors are highly uncertain because there are insufficient population-based data on exposure to most CVD risk factors and because the magnitudes of their effects on CVDs in observational studies are likely to be biased. We identify directions for research and surveillance to better estimate the effects of CVD risk factors and policy options for reducing CVD burden by modifying preventable risk factors.
Importance of Clinical Worsening of Heart Failure Treated in the Outpatient Setting
Authors: Okumura Naoki , Jhund Pardeep S. , Gong Jianjian , Lefkowitz Martin P. , Rizkala Adel R. , Rouleau Jean L. , Shi Victor C. , Swedberg Karl , Zile Michael R. , Solomon Scott D. , Packer Milton , McMurray John J.V.
Published: June 2016

Background—

Many episodes of worsening of heart failure (HF) are treated by increasing oral therapy or temporary intravenous treatment in the community or emergency department (ED), without hospital admission. We studied the frequency and prognostic importance of these episodes of worsening in the Prospective Comparison of ARNI (angiotensin-receptor-neprilysin inhibitor) with ACEI (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor) to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure Trial (PARADIGM-HF).

Methods and Results—

Outpatient intensification of HF therapy was added to an expanded composite outcome with ED visits, HF hospitalizations, and cardiovascular deaths. In an examination of first nonfatal events, 361 of 8399 patients (4.3%) had outpatient intensification of HF therapy without a subsequent event (ie, ED visit/HF hospitalizations) within 30 days; 78 of 8399 (1.0%) had an ED visit without previous outpatient intensification of HF therapy or a subsequent event within 30 days; and 1107 of 8399 (13.2%) had HF hospitalizations without a preceding event. The risk of death (in comparison with no-event patients) was similar after each manifestation of worsening: outpatient intensification of HF therapy (hazard ratio, 4.8; 95% confidence interval, 3.9–5.9); ED visit (hazard ratio, 4.5; 95% confidence interval, 3.0–6.7); HF hospitalizations (hazard ratio, 5.9; 95% confidence interval, 5.2–6.6). The expanded composite added 14% more events and shortened time to accrual of a fixed number of events. The benefit of sacubitril/valsartan over enalapril was similar to the primary outcome for the expanded composite (hazard ratio, 0.79; 95% confidence interval, 0.73–0.86) and was consistent across the components of the latter.

Conclusions—

Focusing only on HF hospitalizations underestimates the frequency of worsening and the serious implications of all manifestations of worsening. For clinical trials conducted in an era of heightened efforts to avoid HF hospitalizations, inclusion of episodes of outpatient treatment intensification (and ED visits) in a composite outcome adds an important number of events and shortens the time taken to accrue a target number of end points in an event-driven trial.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01035255.
Flexible timing of reproductive effort as an alternative mating tactic in black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix) males
Authors: Nieminen E. , Kervinen M. , Lebigre C. , Soulsbury C.D.
Published: June 2016

Alternative reproductive tactics often take the form of dichotomous behavioural phenotypes. Focusing attention on such obvious dichotomy means that flexible patterns of behaviour within tactics is largely ignored. Using a long-term dataset of black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix) lek behaviours, we tested whether there were fine-scale differences in reproductive effort (lek attendance, fighting rates) and whether these were related to age and phenotype. Yearling males increased their lek attendance and fighting rate to a peak when adult male effort was declining. Adults and yearlings allocated reproductive effort according to their body mass but this was unrelated to differences in timing of effort. In adult males, different patterns of lek attendance were associated with different costs of reproduction, measured by mass loss or gain. Overall, our work demonstrates that individuals can use flexible patterns of reproductive effort both in terms of their own condition, their age and the likely costs of behaviours.
Introduction: Emerging Powers and the wto
Authors: Singh J.P.
Published: June 2016

International trade has become increasingly important to emerging market economies. Concurrently, increasing trade liberalization through the multilateral Doha Round, launched in November 2001, from the World Trade Organization (wto) has been a failure. The essays in this issue evaluate the role of Brazil, China, and India at thewtoexamining in particular their domestic and coalitional constraints, the fairness and justice claims underlying their interests, and the types of identity politics that inform their negotiation positions. These three facets do not make multilateral negotiations easy but they do offer possibilities for future negotiations. Multilateral trade negotiations may not decline but the current era of ‘managed multilateralism’ has become complex balancing great and emerging powers interests.
Beyond the Market: The Global South and the wto’s Normative Dimension
Authors: Rodrigues Vieira Vinícius
Published: June 2016

Negotiators expect the World Trade Organization (wto) to be an arena for states to pursue their material gain. However, the wto also reflects symbolic aspects of international politics, in particular the notion of multilateralism. Although such a principle, in part, expresses Western dominance, Global South states have also benefited from multilateral regimes, and thus have incentives to legitimize them and behave according to their rules. Will the pattern of multilateralism change as other trade arrangements potentially gain more prominence? This article analyzes actions taken by Brazil and India in wto’s Doha Development Agenda (dda) and concludes that the multilateral system of trade will survive as Global South states participate in the organization to seek not just material gains but also to commit themselves to the international normative dimension.
Conclusions: Emerging Powers in the wto – Beware the Glass Ceiling
Authors: Wilkinson Rorden
Published: June 2016

This concluding article argues that while the actions of emerging powers have left an indelible mark on the way multilateral trade is governed, they have not been able to disrupt to any significant degree the deeper structures of power that underpin the World Trade Organization (wto). While emerging powers have proven to be important players in the Doha negotiations, particularly in the closing stages, they have ultimately come up against a glass ceiling that prevents their further rise. This ceiling is the product of a series of institutional factors that combine to facilitate alterations in the general arrangement of members one-to-another but which prevent deeper configurations of power from being disturbed. The result is that while we may have witnessed some changes in the multilateral trading system, these have been more akin to a rearrangement of the multilateral furniture than to a fundamental transformation of the system.
The Legalisation of Gamete Donation in Italy
Authors: Boggio Andrea
Published: June 2016

Since 2004, the regulation of assisted reproduction in Italy has undergone substantial reform as an effect of key judicial intervention. Limitations on embryo production, screening and transfer, the prohibition against engaging in preimplantation genetic diagnosis (pgd) and embryo selection, and the ban on gamete donation have all been removed by courts. In this article, I discuss how judicial intervention has improved the ability of Italian couples to access assisted reproduction technologies (arts), and how the expansion of reproductive rights is, however, still incomplete. In particular, I discuss the challenges in implementing the liberalisation of gamete donation, and identify the practical, political and cultural reasons for limited access to gamete donation. I also discuss the future of the prohibitions and restrictions that still exist in Law 40/2004.