bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate and Iatrogenic Arteriovenous Fistula Treated by Superselective Arterial Embolization
Authors: Asimakopoulos Anastasios D. , Dutto Lorenzo , Preziosi Paolo , Spera Enrico , Micali Francesco , De Carolis Andrea , Iorio Beniamino
Published: February 2016

Iatrogenic pelvic pseudoaneurysm with concomitant arteriovenous fistula has been described as a rare and challenging complication, which may occur during transurethral resection of the prostate. We provide the first report of this complication after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. The attempt to control the bleeding by conversion to open surgery and placement of haemostatic stitches into the prostatic fossa failed. Angiography with superselective arterial embolization proved to be a modern, quick, safe, and efficient treatment of this uncommon complication.
Therapeutic Potential of HGF-Expressing Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Mice with Acute Liver Failure
Authors: Tang Yunxia , Li Qiongshu , Meng Fanwei , Huang Xingyu , Li Chan , Zhou Xin , Zeng Xiaoping , He Yixin , Liu Jia , Hu Xiang , Hu Ji-Fan , Li Tao
Published: February 2016

Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) are particularly attractive cells for cellular and gene therapy in acute liver failure (ALF). However, the efficacy of this cell therapy in animal studies needs to be significantly improved before it can be translated into clinics. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of UCMSCs that overexpress hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in an acetaminophen-induced acute liver failure mouse model. We found that the HGF-UCMSC cell therapy protected animals from acute liver failure by reducing liver damage and prolonging animal survival. The therapeutic effect of HGF-UCMSCs was associated with the increment in serum glutathione (GSH) and hepatic enzymes that maintain redox homeostasis, includingγ-glutamylcysteine synthetase (γ-GCS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Immunohistochemical staining confirmed that HGF-UCMSCs were mobilized to the injured areas of the liver. Additionally, HGF-UCMSCs modulated apoptosis by upregulating the antiapoptotic Bcl2 and downregulating proapoptotic genes, including Bax and TNFα. Taken together, these data suggest that ectopic expression of HGF in UCMSCs protects animals from acetaminophen-induced acute liver failure through antiapoptosis and antioxidation mechanisms.
A Comparative Evaluation of the Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Composted Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifoliaL.) with Pine Bark Growing Media in Tobacco (Nicotiana tabucumL.) Seedling Production
Authors: Masaka Johnson , Chimwanda Noel , Chagonda Ignatius , Chandiposha Misheck
Published: February 2016

The search for suitable organic growing media substitutes for pine bark based media combinations has been prompted by concerns over high costs and lack of availability to smallholder farmers coupled with increasing demand for soilless media in Zimbabwe. A trial was conducted for 12 weeks to investigate the suitability of tea tree compost-based substrates for tobacco seedling production as a substitute of the traditional pine bark growing media. The use of composted tea tree growing media in float trays significantly (p<0.05) increases the bulk density of the media by 23–59% when compared with pine bark media. The cation exchange capacity of the native pine bark growing media was 14 to 95% lower than that for the composted tea tree media. The use of the composted tea as media for tobacco seedling nursery reduced seed germination by 10–37%, seedling stem height by 4–34%, and seedling stem girth by 6–175%. While the nutrient holding and supplying potential of the growing media in seedling production is important for normal seedling growth, its effect on seedling growth vigor is less important than that exerted by the presence of suitable physical conditions in the media.
Combined Experimental and CFD Investigation of the Parabolic Shaped Solar Collector Utilizing Nanofluid (CuO-H2O and SiO2-H2O) as a Working Fluid
Authors: Ajay Ketan , Kundan Lal
Published: February 2016

Nanoscience application plays a major role in heat transfer related problems. A nanofluid is basically a suspension of fine sized nanomaterials in base fluids like water, Therminol VP-1, ethylene glycol, and other heat transfer fluids. This paper evaluates the possible application of nanofluid in parabolic shaped concentrating solar collector using both experimental and CFD analysis. Different types of nanomaterials used are SiO2and CuO of 20 nm average size. Nanofluids of SiO2-H2O (DI) and CuO-H2O (DI) of 0.01% volume concentration are used. Flow rates of 40 LPH and 80 LPH are used. ANSYS FLUENT 14.5 is used for carrying out CFD investigation. 3D temperature distribution of absorber tube is obtained using numerical investigation and the result is compared with the experimental one. Improvement in efficiency of collector of about 6.68% and 7.64% is obtained using 0.01% vol. conc. SiO2-H2O (DI) nanofluid and 0.01% vol. conc. CuO-H2O (DI) nanofluid, respectively, as compared to H2O (DI) at 40 LPH while at 80 LPH improvement in efficiency of collector of about 7.15% and 8.42% is obtained using 0.01% vol. conc. SiO2-H2O (DI) nanofluid and 0.01% vol. conc. CuO-H2O (DI) nanofluid, respectively, as compared to H2O (DI). Both experimental and CFD temperature results are in good agreement.
Encephalitozoon cuniculi: Grading the Histological Lesions in Brain, Kidney, and Liver during Primoinfection Outbreak in Rabbits
Authors: Rodríguez-Tovar Luis E. , Nevárez-Garza Alicia M. , Trejo-Chávez Armando , Hernández-Martínez Carlos A. , Hernández-Vidal Gustavo , Zarate-Ramos Juan J. , Castillo-Velázquez Uziel
Published: February 2016

This is the first confirmed report ofEncephalitozoon cuniculi(E. cuniculi) in farm meat rabbits located in Northern Mexico. Eighty young rabbits exhibited clinical signs of this zoonotic emerging disease, like torticollis, ataxia, paresis, circling, and rolling. Samples of brain, kidney, and liver were examined for histology lesions. For the first time the lesions caused byE. cuniculiwere graded according to their severity (I, II, and III) and the size of the granulomas (Types A, B, and C). The main cerebral injuries were Grade III, coinciding with the presence of Type C granulomas. The cerebral lesions were located in the cortex, brain stem, and medulla. The renal lesions were also Grade III distributed throughout cortex and renal medulla, with no granuloma formation. The involvement of hypersensitivity Types III and IV is suggested. All of the rabbits were seropositive toE. cuniculiby CIA testing, suggesting that this zoonotic and emerging pathogen is widely distributed among animals intended for human consumption. We believe this work could be used as a guide when examiningE. cuniculiand will provide direction to confirm the diagnosis of this pathogen.
New Smith Internal Model Control of Two-Motor Drive System Based on Neural Network Generalized Inverse
Authors: Liu Guohai , Yuan Jun , Zhao Wenxiang , Mi Yaojie
Published: February 2016

Multimotor drive system is widely applied in industrial control system. Considering the characteristics of multi-input multioutput, nonlinear, strong-coupling, and time-varying delay in two-motor drive systems, this paper proposes a new Smith internal model (SIM) control method, which is based on neural network generalized inverse (NNGI). This control strategy adopts the NNGI system to settle the decoupling issue and utilizes the SIM control structure to solve the delay problem. The NNGI method can decouple the original system into several composite pseudolinear subsystems and also complete the pole-zero allocation of subsystems. Furthermore, based on the precise model of pseudolinear system, the proposed SIM control structure is used to compensate the network delay and enhance the interference resisting the ability of the whole system. Both simulation and experimental results are given, verifying that the proposed control strategy can effectively solve the decoupling problem and exhibits the strong robustness to load impact disturbance at various operations.
Suitability of Water Harvesting in the Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia: A First Step towards a Mesoscale Hydrological Modeling Framework
Authors: Dile Yihun T. , Rockström Johan , Karlberg Louise
Published: February 2016

Extreme rainfall variability has been one of the major factors to famine and environmental degradation in Ethiopia. The potential for water harvesting in the Upper Blue Nile Basin was assessed using two GIS-based Multicriteria Evaluation methods: (1) a Boolean approach to locate suitable areas for in situ and ex situ systems and (2) a weighted overlay analysis to classify suitable areas into different water harvesting suitability levels. The sensitivity of the results was analyzed to the influence given to different constraining factors. A large part of the basin was suitable for water harvesting: the Boolean analysis showed that 36% of the basin was suitable for in situ and ex situ systems, while the weighted overlay analysis showed that 6–24% of the basin was highly suitable. Rainfall has the highest influence on suitability for water harvesting. Implementing water harvesting in nonagricultural land use types may further increase the benefit. Assessing water harvesting suitability at the larger catchment scale lays the foundation for modeling of water harvesting at mesoscale, which enables analysis of the potential and implications of upscaling of water harvesting practices for building resilience against climatic shocks. A complete water harvesting suitability study requires socioeconomic analysis and stakeholder consultation.
The Role of Nigella sativa and Its Active Constituents in Learning and Memory
Authors: Sahak Mohamad Khairul Azali , Kabir Nurul , Abbas Ghulam , Draman Suhaimi , Hashim Noor Hashida , Hasan Adli Durriyyah Sharifah
Published: February 2016

The loss of the ability for learning and memory is a prominent feature of dementia, which affects millions of individuals all over the world, due to either neurodegenerative diseases or brain injury. Although a lot of information is known about the pathology involved, treatment remains elusive at best. The Black Seed of Nigella sativa has been historically and religiously used for thousands of years for preventing and treating many different kinds of diseases. This review article looks at Nigella sativa and its potential role in facilitating learning and memory. The possible use of this seed’s extract or compounds isolated from it, such as thymoquinone, for treating damaged brain neural tissue is discussed. The evidence presented in this paper appears to be supporting the hypothesis that this plant and/or its bioactive constituents can enhance learning and memory in health and disease in animals and humans.
Study of High Efficiency Flow Regulation of VIGV in Centrifugal Compressor
Authors: Ji Chunjun , Sun Qi , Fan Zhaoyang , Gao Yawei , Zhao Baode
Published: February 2016

Variable inlet guide vane (VIGV) is used to control the mass flow and generate prewhirl in centrifugal compressors. Due to the tip clearance of the guide vanes and the defect of the traditional guide vane profiles, the mass flow regulation of VIGV is limited, resulting in a large waste of compressed gas. Two kinds of inlet flow channels were proposed to eliminate the influence of tip clearance. These structures were numerically investigated at different setting angles. The results show that the improved channels not only expand the range of mass flow regulation, but also reduce the power and increase the efficiency of the compressor. Ten kinds of guide vane profiles, including different thickness distribution, camber line profile, were selected to compare with the original one and with each other. In the premise of ensuring the performance of compressor, the best guide vane profile was selected. The results show that reducing the guide vane thickness, increasing the guide vane camber angle, and increasing the distance between the maximum camber position and the leading edge of guide vane can help expand the range of mass flow regulation. The achievement of this research can effectively improve the flow regulation ability of VIGV and the performance of compressor.
Ag Doped ZnO Thin Films Synthesized by Spray Coating Technique for Methylene Blue Photodegradation under UV Irradiation
Authors: Sutanto Heri , Wibowo Singgih , Nurhasanah Iis , Hidayanto Eko , Hadiyanto H.
Published: February 2016

Silver (Ag) substituted ZnO thin films were successfully deposited onto glass substrates by spray coating technique. Structure, morphology, and optical properties were evaluated by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-Vis spectrophotometer, respectively. XRD spectra had polycrystalline wurtzite structure; SEM images showed that thin films had different surface morphology at different Ag doping concentration. From transmittance spectra, thin films transparency decreased as well as band gap energy along with increase of Ag doping concentration. Methylene blue (MB) solution was used as a pollutant in the photodegradation studies. Under UV light irradiation, the optimal Ag doping is 25%, with 83% of the decolorizing efficiencies after 3 h irradiation time and apparent constant (kapp) about 9.69 × 10−3 min−1.
Vertical Handover Decision Algorithm Using Ants’ Colonies for 4G Heterogeneous Wireless Networks
Authors: El Fachtali Imad , Saadane Rachid , ElKoutbi Mohammed
Published: February 2016

With the development of 4G mobile telecommunication systems, providing users with the convenience of a seamless continuous connection is not enough anymore. Users want to be connected through the best available network with the best quality of service. It is necessary to have a good decision-making algorithm which decides whether it is necessary to perform handoff to another network, the best network to vertically perform handoff to, and the right time to initiate the handover. This paper proposes a new approach in which mobile terminals (MTs) continuously analyze the network and keep a database of the best available networks. The concept is based on QoS aware ant colony built on the vertical handoff mechanism that uses an updated version of ants’ colony optimization decision algorithm (ACOR), the dynamic and static factors such as RSS, the cost of service, bandwidth, the velocity of MT, the power consumption and security, and the module for predicting the traveling distance within an IEEE 802.11 WLAN cell. Simulation results show that we can not only meet the individual needs of users in terms of QoS, but also improve the whole system performance by reducing the number of handover failures and unnecessary handover instances by up to 95%.
Symptomatic Trifascicular Block in Steinert’s Disease: Is It Too Soon for a Pacemaker?
Authors: Lasam Glenmore , Roberti Roberto , LaCapra Gina , Ramirez Roberto
Published: February 2016

We report a case of a 62-year-old male with Steinert’s disease who presented with progressive intermittent episodes of lightheadedness five years after he was diagnosed with the disease. On evaluation, he developed a new onset trifascicular block (first degree atrioventricular block, new onset right bundle branch block, and left anterior fascicular block). A dual chamber pacemaker was inserted and lightheadedness improved significantly.
Efficacy Comparison of Tenofovir and Entecavir in HBeAg-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B Patients with High HBV DNA
Authors: Shi Hong , Huang Mingxing , Lin Guoli , Li Xiangyong , Wu Yuankai , Jie Yusheng , Chong Yutian
Published: March 2016

Objectives. To compare entecavir (ETV) and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) effects in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with high HBV DNA.Method. 96 patients treated initially with tenofovir (TDF group) or entecavir (ETV group) were included in this retrospective study. The following parameters were assessed: HBeAg and hepatitis B e antibody (anti-HBe) status, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and HBV-DNA levels at weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, and 96; time to ALT normalization, undetectable HBV-DNA levels, and HBeAg seroconversion; total duration of follow-up and adverse reactions.Results. The patients included 66 (69%) and 30 (31%) individuals administered ETV and TDF, respectively, comprising 75% males. They were35.1±4.5and33.7±4.6years old in ETV and TDF groups, respectively. At 36 weeks, the response rate was significantly higher in the TDF group than in ETV treated patients (90% versus 69.7%,p=0.03). At 48 weeks, less patients administered ETV showed undetectable HBV-DNA levels compared with the TDF group (86.4% versus 96.7%), a non-statistically significant difference (p=0.13). Only 1 ETV treated patient developed virological breakthrough at 48–96 w. No adverse reactions were found.Conclusion. ETV and TDF are comparable in efficacy and safety to suppress HBV-DNA replication in HBeAg-positive CHB patients with high HBV DNA.
Economic Assessment of Producing Corn and Cellulosic Ethanol Mandate on Agricultural Producers and Consumers in the United States
Authors: Adusumilli Naveen C. , Lacewell Ronald D. , Taylor C. Robert , Rister M. Edward
Published: February 2016

Strong support for the biofuels program in the USA is expected to influence dedicated biomass crops production. Their production is expected to compete for resources with traditional crops and in turn influence commodity prices, economic surplus, and trade balance. Implications of dedicated biomass crop as bioenergy feedstock, alternative energy policies, and government initiatives on agricultural producers and consumers are evaluated using a national quantitative model, AGSIM. Economic impacts include effect on cropping patterns, crop prices, fertilizer prices, consumer and producer surplus, and trade balance. Economic analyses based on alternative assumptions related to marginal lands currently in conservation use returning to crop production as well as biomass crop yields are conducted. Results indicate that present biofuel policies are associated with large costs to consumers in terms of increased commodity prices and negative trade balance. Increase in net farm income is offset by decrease in consumer surplus. The results represent a robust set of economic impacts, which suggests policy makers to consider the unexpected economic consequences of bioenergy policy and warrants consideration of multiple alternative energy sources to achieve a sustainable energy goal.
Tuberculous Enteritis: A Rare Complication of Miliary Tuberculosis
Authors: Figueroa Danisha , Guzman Nilmarie , Isache Carmen
Published: February 2016

Tuberculous enteritis is a clinical rarity even in immunocompromised patients. We present a case of miliary tuberculosis with gastrointestinal involvement. A 47-year-old homosexual male from Philippines with no significant medical history presented with productive cough, night sweats, subjective fevers, shortness of breath, watery diarrhea, and 25-pound weight loss in past one year. On physical exam he was afebrile, mildly hypotensive, tachycardic, and tachypneic, but saturating well on room air. He was cachectic with oral thrush and bilateral fine rales. Chest X-ray revealed a miliary pattern. His sputum AFB smear was strongly positive. PCR and sputum culture were positive forMycobacterium tuberculosis. He was started on Rifampin, Isoniazid, Ethambutol, and Pyrazinamide. He was found to be HIV positive with an absolute CD4 count of 4 cells/μL. Due to persistent diarrhea, stool was sent for AFB culture and grewM. tuberculosis. He responded well to treatment with resolution of symptoms. Tuberculous enteritis occurs in about 2% of the patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Although it is uncommon, it should be considered in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis and abdominal complaints. A presumptive diagnosis of tuberculous enteritis can be made in the setting of active pulmonary tuberculosis with suggestive clinical, endoscopic, and/or radiographic findings.
Potential Use of Salivary Markers for Longitudinal Monitoring of Inflammatory Immune Responses to Vaccination
Authors: Lim Pei Wen , Garssen Johan , Sandalova Elena
Published: February 2016

Vaccination, designed to trigger a protective immune response against infection, is a trigger for mild inflammatory responses. Vaccination studies can address the question of inflammation initiation, levels, and resolution as well as its regulation for respective studied pathogens. Such studies largely based on analyzing the blood components including specific antibodies and cytokines were usually constrained by number of participants and volume of collected blood sample. Hence, blood-based studies may not be able to cover the full dynamic range of inflammation responses induced by vaccination. In this review, the potential of using saliva in addition to blood for studying the kinetics of inflammatory response studies was assessed. Saliva sampling is noninvasive and has a great potential to be used for studies aimed at analysing the magnitude, time course, and variance in immune responses, including inflammation after vaccination. Based on a literature survey of inflammatory biomarkers that can be determined in saliva and an analysis of how these biomarkers could help to understand the mechanisms and dynamics of immune reactivity and inflammation, we propose that the saliva-based approach might have potential to add substantial value to clinical studies, particularly in vulnerable populations such as infants, toddlers, and ill individuals.
Isotropic Stars in Higher-Order Torsion Scalar Theories
Authors: Nashed Gamal G. L.
Published: February 2016

Two different nondiagonal tetrad spaces reproducing spherically symmetric spacetime are applied to the field equations of higher-order torsion scalar theories. Assuming the existence of conformal Killing vector, two isotropic solutions are derived. We show that the first solution is not stable while the second one confirms a stable behavior. We also discuss the construction of the stellar model and show that one of our solutions is capable of such construction while the other is not. Finally, we discuss the generalized Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff and show that one of our models has a tendency to equilibrium.
Multiple Brain Abscesses due toStreptococcus anginosus: Prediction of Mortality by an Imaging Severity Index Score
Authors: Kragha K. O.
Published: March 2016

An elderly patient with altered mental status, brain abscesses, ventriculitis, and empyemas died of septic shock and brain abscesses secondary toStreptococcus anginosusdespite aggressive treatment. An imaging severity index score with a better prognostic value than the Glasgow coma scale predicted mortality in this patient.
Multiple Reaction Monitoring Mode Based Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Method for Simultaneous Quantification of Brassinolide and Other Plant Hormones Involved in Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Kasote Deepak M. , Ghosh Ritesh , Chung Jun Young , Kim Jonggeun , Bae Inhwan , Bae Hanhong
Published: February 2016

Plant hormones are the key regulators of adaptive stress response. Abiotic stresses such as drought and salt are known to affect the growth and productivity of plants. It is well known that the levels of plant hormones such as zeatin (ZA), abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), jasmonic acid (JA), and brassinolide (BR) fluctuate upon abiotic stress exposure. At present, there is not any single suitable liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method for simultaneous analysis of BR and other plant hormones involved in abiotic stresses. In the present study, we developed a simple, sensitive, and rapid method for simultaneous analysis of five major plant hormones, ZA, ABA, JA, SA, and BR, which are directly or indirectly involved in drought and salt stresses. The optimized extraction procedure was simple and easy to use for simultaneous measurement of these plant hormones inArabidopsis thaliana. The developed method is highly reproducible and can be adapted for simultaneous measurement of changes in plant hormones (ZA, ABA, JA, SA, and BR) in response to abiotic stresses in plants likeA. thalianaand tomato.
HS-RAID2: Optimizing Small Write Performance in HS-RAID
Authors: Dong Yongfeng , Liu Jingyu , Yan Jie , Liu Hongpu , Wu Youxi
Published: February 2016

HS-RAID (Hybrid Semi-RAID), a power-aware RAID, saves energy by grouping disks in the array. All of the write operations in HS-RAID are small write which degrade the storage system’s performance severely. In this paper, we propose a redundancy algorithm, data incremental parity algorithm (DIP), which employs HS-RAID to minimize the write penalty and improves the performance and reliability of the storage systems. The experimental results show that HS-RAID2(HS-RAID with DIP) is faster and has higher reliability than HS-RAID remarkably.
Performance Evaluation of IRIS and LOTUS Motes When Communicating in Real Environments
Authors: Habtoor Mohammed S. , Rowaihy Hosam
Published: February 2016

Wireless sensor network (WSN) technology has rapidly spread into many fields. Recently, this technology has come to the forefront among the scientific community. The usage of sensors and the possibilities of organizing them into networks have motivated several topics of research and have highlighted different means of addressing certain problems, of which one of the most important is communication. In this paper, we report a study of the communication performance of two generations of wireless motes (IRIS and LOTUS) in various real scenarios and environments. This study will assist decision-makers in choosing the most appropriate sensor technology for their specific applications and requirements.
Performance Analysis of a DEKF for Available Bandwidth Measurement
Authors: Santoro Diego , Vadursi Michele
Published: February 2016

The paper presents a characterisation analysis of a measurement algorithm based on a Discrete-time Extended Kalman Filter (DEKF), which has recently been proposed for the estimation and tracking of end-to-end available bandwidth. The analysis is carried out by means of simulations for different rates of variations of the available bandwidth and permits assessing the performance of the measurement algorithm for different values of the filter parameters, that is, the covariance matrixes of the measurement and process noise.
Production of Palmitoleic and Linoleic Acid in Oleaginous and Nonoleaginous Yeast Biomass
Authors: Kolouchová Irena , Maťátková Olga , Sigler Karel , Masák Jan , Řezanka Tomáš
Published: February 2016

We investigated the possibility of utilizing both oleaginous yeast species accumulating large amounts of lipids (Yarrowia lipolytica, Rhodotorula glutinis, Trichosporon cutaneum,andCandidasp.) and traditional biotechnological nonoleaginous ones (Kluyveromyces polysporus, Torulaspora delbrueckii,andSaccharomyces cerevisiae) as potential producers of dietetically important major fatty acids. The main objective was to examine the cultivation conditions that would induce a high ratio of dietary fatty acids and biomass. Though genus-dependent, the type of nitrogen source had a higher influence on biomass yield than the C/N ratio. The nitrogen source leading to the highest lipid accumulation was potassium nitrate, followed by ammonium sulfate, which is an ideal nitrogen source supporting, in both oleaginous and nonoleaginous species, sufficient biomass growth with concomitantly increased lipid accumulation. All yeast strains displayed high (70–90%) content of unsaturated fatty acids in total cell lipids. The content of dietary fatty acids of interest, namely, palmitoleic acid and linoleic acid, reached inKluyveromycesandTrichosporonstrains over 50% of total fatty acids and the highest yield, over 280 mg per g of dry cell weight of these fatty acids, was observed inTrichosporonwith ammonium sulfate as nitrogen source at C/N ratio 70.
Short-Time Fourier Transform and Decision Tree-Based Pattern Recognition for Gas Identification Using Temperature Modulated Microhotplate Gas Sensors
Authors: He Aixiang , Yu Jun , Wei Guangfen , Chen Yi , Wu Hao , Tang Zhenan
Published: February 2016

Because the sensor response is dependent on its operating temperature, modulated temperature operation is usually applied in gas sensors for the identification of different gases. In this paper, the modulated operating temperature of microhotplate gas sensors combined with a feature extraction method based on Short-Time Fourier Transform (STFT) is introduced. Because the gas concentration in the ambient air usually has high fluctuation, STFT is applied to extract transient features from time-frequency domain, and the relationship between the STFT spectrum and sensor response is further explored. Because of the low thermal time constant, the sufficient discriminatory information of different gases is preserved in the envelope of the response curve. Feature information tends to be contained in the lower frequencies, but not at higher frequencies. Therefore, features are extracted from the STFT amplitude values at the frequencies ranging from 0 Hz to the fundamental frequency to accomplish the identification task. These lower frequency features are extracted and further processed by decision tree-based pattern recognition. The proposed method shows high classification capability by the analysis of different concentration of carbon monoxide, methane, and ethanol.
Assessing the Option to Abandon an Investment Project by the Binomial Options Pricing Model
Authors: Cruz Rambaud Salvador , Sánchez Pérez Ana María
Published: March 2016

Usually, traditional methods for investment project appraisal such as the net present value (hereinafter NPV) do not incorporate in their values the operational flexibility offered by including a real option included in the project. In this paper, real options, and more specifically the option to abandon, are analysed as a complement to cash flow sequence which quantifies the project. In this way, by considering the existing analogy with financial options, a mathematical expression is derived by using the binomial options pricing model. This methodology provides the value of the option to abandon the project within one, two, and in general n periods. Therefore, this paper aims to be a useful tool in determining the value of the option to abandon according to its residual value, thus making easier the control of the uncertainty element within the project.
Influence of Sandwich-Type Constrained Layer Damper Design Parameters on Damping Strength
Authors: Merideno Inaki , Nieto Javier , Gil-Negrete Nere , Giménez Ortiz José Germán , Landaberea Aitor , Iartza Jon
Published: February 2016

This paper presents a theoretical study of the parameters that influence sandwich-type constrained layer damper design. Although there are different ways to reduce the noise generated by a railway wheel, most devices are based on the mechanism of increasing wheel damping. Sandwich-type constrained layer dampers can be designed so their resonance frequencies coincide with the wheel’s resonant vibration frequencies, and thus the damping effect can be concentrated within the frequency ranges of interest. However, the influence of design parameters has not yet been studied. Based on a number of numerical simulations, this paper provides recommendations for the design stages of sandwich-type constrained layer dampers.
Glufosinate Rate and Timing for Control of Glyphosate-Resistant Rhizomatous Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense) in Glufosinate-Resistant Soybean
Authors: Landry Randall L. , Stephenson Daniel O. , Woolam Brandi C.
Published: February 2016

Field studies were conducted over a three-year period (2011, 2012, and 2013) in Louisiana to evaluate the effect of glufosinate rate and timing on glyphosate-resistant (GR) rhizomatous johnsongrass control in glufosinate-resistant soybean. Treatments included glufosinate (0.5, 0.6, or 0.7 kg ai ha−1) applied alone POST1 (46 cm tall johnsongrass) and sequentially 3 (POST2) or 4 (POST3) wk after POST1 at 0.5 or 0.6 kg ha−1. Glufosinate (0.7 kg ha−1) applied POST1 controlled johnsongrass 77% at soybean harvest. Averaged across sequential application rate, delaying the sequential application from POST2 to POST3 increased control from 65 to 78% at harvest. Increasing sequential application rate from 0.5 to 0.6 kg ha−1reduced johnsongrass heights 15% at harvest. Furthermore, delaying the sequential application from POST2 to POST3 reduced GR rhizomatous johnsongrass heights to 63% of the nontreated at harvest. Soybean yields were maximized following the POST1 application of glufosinate at 0.7 kg ha−1(2670 kg ha−1) and by applying 0.6 kg ha−1of glufosinate sequentially (2620 kg ha−1), regardless of sequential application timing. Maximum control and soybean yield were observed following glufosinate POST1 at 0.7 kg ha−1followed by 0.6 kg ha−1at POST3. This data indicates that glufosinate is an option for management of GR rhizomatous johnsongrass.
Temperature Distribution Pattern of Brassica chinensis during Vacuum Cooling
Authors: Song Xiao-yan , Liu Bao-lin , Jaganathan Ganesh K.
Published: February 2016

The temperature distribution of leafy vegetables is often less uniform than that of other vegetables during the vacuum cooling process, a factor that can cause undesired effects such as frostbite. Brassica chinensis, a type of classical leafy vegetable, was used as a model in this paper to optimize vacuum cooling technology for the whole and fresh-cut leafy vegetables. We found that noticeable temperature differences between the leaf and the petiole occurred, which resulted from their structural difference. Temperature variations of different parts of the leaf were also observed, indicating that cooling rate of leaf margin was quicker than the other parts. Our experiments show that using a moderate volumetric displacement of the chamber (0.033 s−1) is beneficial for obtaining a relative uniform temperature distribution of the leaf part.
Symmetric Compound Parabolic Concentrator with Indium Tin Oxide Coated Glass as Passive Cooling System for Photovoltaic Application
Authors: Paul Damasen Ikwaba
Published: February 2016

One problem with concentrating photovoltaic systems is the increase in operating photovoltaic module temperature which results in power output reduction. Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) coated glasses exhibit both high transmittance in the visible region and high reflectance in the infrared region of the solar spectrum. Such materials can be used as selective windows in photovoltaic modules operating under concentrating system enabling passive cooling. In this paper, a Heat Reflector Window (HRW) consisting of a glass coated with 180 nm layer of ITO was experimentally tested. The ITO coated glass had a transmittance of about 85% in the visible region and over 80% reflectance in the infrared region of the solar spectrum and was placed at the exit aperture of a Compound Parabolic Concentrator (CPC). Results indicate that the temperature of a photovoltaic module under CPC with the HRW was reduced by about 50% as compared to a similar photovoltaic module with CPC but without the HRW. However, due to presence of the HRW at the exit aperture of the CPC, the photovoltaic module with the CPC and HRW received less solar irradiance compared to a similar photovoltaic module with the CPC but without HRW.
Constraints to Dark Matter from Inert Higgs Doublet Model
Authors: Díaz Marco Aurelio , Koch Benjamin , Urrutia-Quiroga Sebastián
Published: February 2016

We study the Inert Higgs Doublet Model and its inert scalar HiggsHas the only source for dark matter. It is found that three mass regions of the inert scalar Higgs can give the correct dark matter relic density. The low mass region (between 3 and 50 GeV) is ruled out. New direct dark matter detection experiments will probe the intermediate (between 60 and 100 GeV) and high (heavier than 550 GeV) mass regions. Collider experiments are advised to search forD±→HW±decay in the two jets plus missing energy channel.
The Research of Feature Extraction Method of Liver Pathological Image Based on Multispatial Mapping and Statistical Properties
Authors: Liu Huiling , Jiang Huiyan , Xia Bingbing , Yi Dehui
Published: February 2016

We propose a new feature extraction method of liver pathological image based on multispatial mapping and statistical properties. For liver pathological images of Hematein Eosin staining, the image of R and B channels can reflect the sensitivity of liver pathological images better, while the entropy space and Local Binary Pattern (LBP) space can reflect the texture features of the image better. To obtain the more comprehensive information, we map liver pathological images to the entropy space, LBP space, R space, and B space. The traditional Higher Order Local Autocorrelation Coefficients (HLAC) cannot reflect the overall information of the image, so we propose an average correction HLAC feature. We calculate the statistical properties and the average gray value of pathological images and then update the current pixel value as the absolute value of the difference between the current pixel gray value and the average gray value, which can be more sensitive to the gray value changes of pathological images. Lastly the HLAC template is used to calculate the features of the updated image. The experiment results show that the improved features of the multispatial mapping have the better classification performance for the liver cancer.
A Comparison of a Fully Covered and an Uncovered Segmented Biodegradable Esophageal Stent in a Porcine Model: Preclinical Evaluation of Degradation, Complications, and Tissue Reactions
Authors: Feng Yadong , Jiao Chunhua , Cao Yang , Zhao Ye , Chen Yanfang , Fang Lin , Shi Ruihua
Published: February 2016

Aims. This study was to compare the degradation, complications, and tissue reactions of two segmented biodegradable esophageal stents in a porcine model.Methods. Uncovered biodegradable segmented stents and fully covered biodegradable segmented stents (FCBDS) were transplanted into the porcine esophagus lumen. Data on biodegradation, complications, and tissue reactions were collected and compared.Results. All animals kept good general conditions. No severe complications and stents migration occurred. Stents degradation commenced at week 3. Compared with uncovered stents, stents structure breakage and complete stents absorption in FCBDS were postponed for 1-2 weeks. Hyperplasia was prominent at early stage and ameliorated at late stage after stents insertion. Tissue reactions in FCBDS were milder than those in uncovered stents in the early stage. A longer degradation period was present in FCBDS than in uncovered stents, while FCBDS induced tissue reaction at late stage was mild.Conclusions. Biodegradable esophageal stents with a segmented trunk may be further evaluated in refractory benign esophagus strictures. This FCBDS may be advantageous compared with uncovered stents for a longer degradation period.
An Extract of Chinpi, the Dried Peel of the Citrus Fruit Unshiu, Enhances Axonal Remyelination via Promoting the Proliferation of Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cells
Authors: Tokunaga Hideaki , Seiwa Chika , Yoshioka Nozomu , Mizoguchi Kazushige , Yamamoto Masahiro , Asou Hiroaki , Aiso Sadakazu
Published: February 2016

The aging‐induced decrease in axonal myelination/remyelination is due to impaired recruitment and differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs). Our previous studies have shown that a monoclonal antibody to DEAD (Asp‐Glu‐Ala‐Asp) box polypeptide 54 (Ddx54), a member of the DEAD box family of RNA helicases, (1) specifically labels oligodendrocyte lineages, (2) binds to mRNA and protein isoforms of myelin basic proteins (MBP), and (3) regulates migration of OPCs from ventricular zone to corpus callosum in mice. It has also been demonstrated that specific loss of a 21.5 kDa MBP isoform (MBP21.5) reflects demyelination status, and oral administration of an extract of Chinpi, citrus unshiu peel, reversed the aging‐induced demyelination. Here, we report that Chinpi treatment induced a specific increase in the MBP21.5, led to the reappearance of Ddx54‐expressing cells in ventricular‐subventricular zone and corpus callosum of aged mice, and promoted remyelination. Treatment of in vitro OPC cultures with Chinpi constituents, hesperidin plus narirutin, led to an increase in 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine incorporation in Ddx54‐expressing OPCs, but not in NG2‐ or Olig2‐expressing cell populations. The present study suggests that Ddx54 plays crucial role in remyelination. Furthermore, Chinpi and Chinpi‐containing herbal medicines may be a therapeutic option for the aging‐induced demyelination diseases.
Inadvertent Trypan Blue Staining of Posterior Capsule during Cataract Surgery Associated with “Argentinian Flag” Event
Authors: Prinzi Robert A. , Alapati Neeti M. , Gappy Shawn S. , Dilly Jason S.
Published: February 2016

Trypan blue is common in visualizing the anterior capsule during cataract surgery. Inadvertent staining of the posterior capsule during phacoemulsification is a rare complication and there are few reports in the literature. The proposed mechanism of posterior capsule staining in previous reports includes a compromised zonular apparatus or iris retractors facilitating the posterior flow of trypan blue. We report the first case of trypan blue staining of the posterior capsule associated with the “Argentinian flag” sign. In our case, the “Argentinian flag” allowed the trypan blue to seep between the posterior capsule and the lens, staining the anterior surface of the posterior capsule.
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging of Small Peritoneal Implants in “Potentially” Early-Stage Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Grabowska-Derlatka Laretta , Derlatka Pawel , Szeszkowski Wojciech , Cieszanowski Andrzej
Published: February 2016

Introduction. MRI is established modality for the diagnosis of ovarian malignancies. Advances in MRI technology, including DW imaging, could lead to the further increase in the sensitivity of MRI for the detection of peritoneal metastases. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of DW imaging for detection of peritoneal metastatic disease in patients suspected of having potentially early ovarian cancer and secondly to evaluate ADC values of peritoneal implants. Materials and Methods. The prospective study group consisted of 26 women with sonographic or/and CT diagnosis of suspected ovarian tumor. Based on the results of the above imaging, in none of them was extraovarian spread of disease or ascites recognized. All patients underwent MRI with DW imaging. Results. Overall, 18 extraovarian peritoneal lesions were found on DW images in 10 from 26 examined patients. All implants had diameter ≤10 mm. The presence of all lesions diagnosed by MRI was confirmed intraoperatively. Histopathologic findings in 17 proofs confirmed ovarian cancer. PPV was 94%. On all DW images (with b values of 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, 400, 800, and 1200 s/mm2) the mean signal intensities of peritoneal lesions were significantly higher than the mean signal intensities of normal adjacent tissue (p=0.000001).
Structural and Electrical Studies on ZnO-Based Thin Films by Laser Irradiation
Authors: Zhao Shanyue , Hua Yinqun , Chen Ruifang , Zhang Jian , Ji Ping
Published: February 2016

The effects of laser irradiation on the structural and electrical properties of ZnO-based thin films were investigated. The XRD pattern shows that the thin films were highly textured along thec-axis and perpendicular to the surface of the substrate. Raman spectra reveal that Bi2O3segregates mainly at ZnO-ZnO grain boundaries. After laser irradiation processing, the grain size of the film was reduced significantly, and the intrinsic atomic defects of grain boundaries and Bi element segregated at the grain boundary were interacted frequently and formed the composite defects of acceptor state. The nonlinear coefficient increased to 24.31 and the breakdown voltage reduced to 5.34 V.
A Study of Using Massage Therapy Accompanied with Stretching Exercise for Rehabilitation of Mammary Gland Hyperplasia
Authors: Lv Pin , Chong Yuping , Zou Huagang , Chen Xiangxian
Published: February 2016

Purpose. To apply massage therapy accompanied with stretching exercises for treatment of mammary gland hyperplasia, evaluate the clinical outcome in patients, and estimate the therapy as a novel treatment method for mammary hyperplasia.Methods. 28 adult female patients were selected and treated with massage therapy and stretching exercises focusing on skeleton muscles of chest, abdomen, and axilla. The mammary gland oxyhemoglobin (OxyHb) and deoxyhemoglobin (DeoxyHb) levels were detected before and after treatment after 15, 30, and 45 days.Results. In this cohort, pretreatment OxyHb (mean ± SD) is1.32±0.14(medium-high), and DeoxyHb is0.87±0.13(normal). All patients were clinically diagnosed with benign mammary gland hyperplasia and mastitis. The posttreatment OxyHb levels are1.23±0.09(normal-medium, 15-day),1.16±0.08(normal, 30-day), and1.05±0.04(normal, 45-day), and DeoxyHb levels are0.90±0.11(normal, 15-day),0.94±0.18(normal, 30-day), and0.98±0.12(normal, 45-day). Patients were diagnosed with decreased hyperplasia 15 and 30 days after treatment and with no symptom of hyperplasia in mammary gland 45 days after treatment.Conclusion. Mammary gland hyperplasia is closely correlated with pathological changes of skeletal muscles and could be significantly improved by massage therapy and stretching exercises targeting neighboring skeletal muscles.
A Neuron Model Based Ultralow Current Sensor System for Bioapplications
Authors: Arifuzzman A. K. M. , Islam Mohammad Shafquatul , Haider Mohammad Rafiqul
Published: February 2016

An ultralow current sensor system based on the Izhikevich neuron model is presented in this paper. The Izhikevich neuron model has been used for its superior computational efficiency and greater biological plausibility over other well-known neuron spiking models. Of the many biological neuron spiking features, regular spiking, chattering, and neostriatal spiny projection spiking have been reproduced by adjusting the parameters associated with the model at hand. This paper also presents a modified interpretation of the regular spiking feature in which the firing pattern is similar to that of the regular spiking but with improved dynamic range offering. The sensor current ranges between 2 pA and 8 nA and exhibits linearity in the range of 0.9665 to 0.9989 for different spiking features. The efficacy of the sensor system in detecting low amount of current along with its high linearity attribute makes it very suitable for biomedical applications.
Decreased Brain and Placental Perfusion in Omphalopagus Conjoined Twins on Fetal MRI
Authors: Gorkem Sureyya Burcu , Kutuk Mehmet Serdar , Doganay Selim , Gunes Tamer , Yildiz Karamehmet , Kucukaydin Mustafa
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study is to evaluate perfusional changes in brain and placenta of omphalopagus conjoined twins and to compare them with singleton fetuses by using diffusion weighted imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient. Fetal MRIs of 28-week-old omphalopagus conjoined twins with a shared liver with two separate gallbladders and portal and hepatic venous systems and three singleton fetuses with unilateral borderline ventriculomegaly at the same gestational week as control group were enrolled retrospectively. There was a significant decrease in ADC values of brain regions (p=0.018) and placenta (p=0.005) of conjoined twins compared to the control group. The decreased ADC values in placenta and brain regions in conjoined twins might be due to decreased placental perfusion compared to singleton pregnancy. Our results would be a keystone for future studies which will compare larger group of monochorionic multiple pregnancies with singleton pregnancies.