bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrically tunable quantum interfaces between photons and spin qubits in carbon nanotube quantum dots
Authors: Shen Ze-Song , Hong Fang-Yu
Published: November 2016

We present a new scheme for quantum interfaces (QIs) to accomplish the interconversion of photonic qubits and spin qubits based on optomechanical resonators and the spin–orbit-induced interactions in suspended carbon nanotube quantum dots (CNTQDs). This interface implements quantum spin transducers and further enables electrical manipulation of local electron spin qubits, which lays the foundation for all-electrical control of state transfer protocols between two distant quantum nodes in a quantum network. We numerically evaluate the state transfer processes and proceed to estimate the effect of each coupling strength on the operation fidelities. The simulation suggests that high operation fidelities are obtainable under realistic experimental conditions.
Finite Element Scheme with Crank–Nicolson Method for Parabolic Nonlocal Problems Involving the Dirichlet Energy
Authors: Chaudhary Sudhakar , Srivastava Vimal , Srinivas Kumar V. V. K.
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we present a finite element scheme with Crank–Nicolson method for solving nonlocal parabolic problems involving the Dirichlet energy. We discuss the well-posedness of the weak formulation at continuous as well as at discrete levels. We derive a priori error estimates for both semi-discrete and fully-discrete formulations. Results based on usual finite element method are provided to confirm the theoretical estimates.
Interacting modified Chaplygin gas in f(T) gravity framework and analysis of its stability against gravitational perturbation
Authors: Chattopadhyay Surajit
Published: November 2016

In this work, we investigate the cosmological application of modified Chaplygin gas (MCG) interacting with pressureless dark matter (DM) in the [Formula: see text] modified gravity framework, where [Formula: see text] is the torsion scalar in teleparallelism. The interaction term has been chosen proportional to the MCG density with positive coupling constant. In the Einstein general relativity (GR) framework, the interacting MCG has been found to have equation of state (EoS) parameter behaving like quintessence. However, the [Formula: see text] gravity reconstructed via the interacting MCG has been found to have EoS crossing the phantom boundary of [Formula: see text]. Thus, one can generate a quintom-like EoS from an interacting MCG model in flat universe in the modified gravity cosmology framework. The reconstructed [Formula: see text] model has been found to interpolate between dust and [Formula: see text]CDM. Stability of the reconstructed [Formula: see text] has been investigated and it has been observed that the model is stable against gravitational perturbation. Cosmological evolution of primordial perturbations has also been investigated and the self-interacting potential has been found to increase with cosmic time and the squared speed of sound has been found to be non-negative.
On b-boundary in differential spaces category
Authors: Drachal Krzysztof
Published: November 2016

The aim of this paper is to present a new conceptual approach towards the well-known Schmidt's b-boundary of spacetime. Instead of working in the category of infinitely differentiable manifolds (called also smooth manifolds), we switch to the category of Sikorski differential spaces. Yet, such an approach was developed some time ago, but in this paper, we develop it further. In particular, we mix it with algebraic approach á la Nestruev. It lead us in a natural way towards the new concept of so called generator boundary (in short: gen-boundary). Surprisingly, such a study in the context of cosmology has not been done yet. We provide a through explanation of jointed Nestruev and Sikorski's formalisms. Further, as a result, the concept of gen-boundary emerges. We discuss its properties. Afterwards, having the developed techniques at hand, we re-discuss the Schmidt's b-boundary in this new (more algebraic) language. Interestingly, a classification of spacetime singularities naturally emerges from the proposed formalism.
A two-step discriminated method to identify thermophilic proteins
Authors: Tang Hua , Cao Ren-Zhi , Wang Wen , Liu Tie-Shan , Wang Li-Ming , He Chun-Mei
Published: November 2016

Improving thermostability of an enzyme can accelerate the relevant chemical reaction. Thus, the analysis and prediction of thermophilic proteins are conducive to protein engineering and enzyme design. In this study, a novel method based on two-step discrimination was proposed to distinguish between thermophilic and non-thermophilic proteins. The model was rigorously benchmarked on an objective dataset including 915 thermophilic proteins and 793 non-thermophilic proteins. Results showed that the overall accuracy of our method is 94.44% in 5-fold cross-validation, which is higher than those of other published methods. We believe that the two-step discriminated strategy will become a promising method in the relevant field of protein bioinformatics.
Discovery of Lower Cretaceous hydrothermal vent complexes in a late rifting setting, southern North Sea: insights from 3D imaging
Authors: Blažić Luka , Moreau Julien
Published: November 2016

We present data for 31 kilometre-scale hydrothermal vent complexes and associated sand remobilization that have formed as a consequence of magmatic intrusions within salt strata (southern North Sea, Dutch Sector). This study uses 3D seismic data tied to three wells and artificial neural networks to describe conical and cylindrical vent structures located in the NE part of the Broad Fourteens Basin. The structures are composites of 58 subvertical pipes that form complexes, and are 951 ± 364 m in height and 487 ± 426 m in diameter. Interactions of magma and fluids at depth triggered successive fluid pressure build-ups in Triassic sandstones, resulting in upward-propagated ruptures, followed by the collapse of overlying deposits and the injection and extrusion of fluidized sand. The relationship between vent tops and their overlying deposits indicates a Mid-Hauterivian age, unusual for volcanic activity in the North Sea area. This event could have a significant impact on hydrocarbon exploration, as the hydrothermal vent complexes bypass a regional source-rock and seal, offering new migration routes and connectivity between potential reservoirs. The intrusions also raise questions about the influence of transform tectonics on the focusing of volcanic activity during the late rifting phase of the North Sea.

Supplementary material:
Tables of seismic attributes and the geometry of the vent complexes as well as a 3D visualisation of the vents are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3571593
Hybrid Power Management for Office Equipment
Authors: Gingade Ganesh , Chen Wenyi , Lu Yung-Hsiang , Allebach Jan , Gutierrez-Vazquez Hernan Ildefonso
Published: November 2016

Office machines (such as printers, scanners, facsimile machines, and copiers) can consume significant amounts of power. Most office machines have sleep modes to save power. Power management of these machines is usually timeout-based: a machine sleeps after being idle long enough. Setting the time-out duration can be difficult: if it is too long, the machine wastes power during idleness. If it is too short, the machine sleeps too soon and too often—the wake-up delay can significantly degrade productivity. Thus, power management is a tradeoff between saving energy and keeping response time short. Many power management policies have been published and one policy may outperform another in some scenarios. There is no definite conclusion regarding which policy is always better. This article describes two methods for office equipment power management. The first method adaptively reduces power based on a constraint of the wake-up delay. The second is a hybrid method with multiple candidate policies and it
selects
the most appropriate power management policy. Using 6 months of request traces from 18 different printers, we demonstrate that the hybrid policy outperforms individual policies. We also discover that power management based on business hours does not produce consistent energy savings.
High-fat diet-induced obesity regulates MMP3 to modulate depot- and sex-dependent adipose expansion in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Wu Yuanyuan , Lee Mi-Jeong , Ido Yasuo , Fried Susan K.
Published: November 2016

Increased adipocyte size is hypothesized to signal the recruitment of adipose progenitor cells (APCs) to expand tissue storage capacity. To investigate depot and sex differences in adipose growth, male and female C57BL/6J mice (10 wk-old) were challenged with high-fat (HF) or low-fat (LF) diets (D) for 14 wk. The HFD increased gonadal (GON) depot weight by adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia in females but hypertrophy alone in males. In both sexes, inguinal (ING) adipocytes were smaller than GON, and depot expansion was due to hypertrophy. Matrix metalloproteinase 3 (Mmp3), an antiadipogenic factor, and its inhibitor Timps modulate the extracellular matrix remodeling needed for depot expansion. Mmp3 mRNA was depot different (ING > GON), higher in females than males and mainly expressed in APCs. In males, HFD-induced obesity increased tissue and APC Mmp3 mRNA levels and MMP3 protein and enzymatic activity. In females however, HFD significantly decreased MMP3 protein without affecting its mRNA levels. MMP3 activity also decreased (significant in ING). Timp4 mRNA was expressed mainly in adipocytes, and HFD-induced obesity tended to increase the ratio of TIMP4 to MMP3 protein in females, whereas it decreased it in males. Overexpression of Mmp3 in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes or rhMMP3 protein added to primary human preadipocytes inhibited differentiation, whereas rhTIMP4 improved adipogenesis and attenuated the inhibitory effect of rhMMP3. These data suggest that HFD-induced obesity downregulates APC MMP3 expression to trigger adipogenesis, and adipocyte TIMP4 may modulate this process to regulate hyperplastic vs. hypertrophic adipose tissue expansion, fat distribution, and metabolic health in a sex- and depot-dependent manner.
Maturity and age influence chief cell ability to transdifferentiate into metaplasia
Authors: Weis Victoria G. , Petersen Christine P. , Weis Jared A. , Meyer Anne R. , Choi Eunyoung , Mills Jason C. , Goldenring James R.
Published: November 2016

The plasticity of gastric chief cells is exemplified by their ability to transdifferentiate into spasmolytic polypeptide-expressing metaplasia (SPEM) after parietal cell loss. We sought to determine if chief cell maturity is a limiting factor in the capacity to transdifferentiate. Mist1−/− mice, previously shown to form only immature chief cells, were treated with DMP-777 or L635 to study the capability of these immature chief cells to transdifferentiate into a proliferative metaplastic lineage after acute parietal cell loss. Mist1−/− mice treated with DMP-777 showed fewer chief cell to SPEM transitions. Mist1−/− mice treated with L635 demonstrated significantly fewer proliferative SPEM cells compared with control mice. Thus immature chief cells were unable to transdifferentiate efficiently into SPEM after acute parietal cell loss. To determine whether chief cell age affects transdifferentiation into SPEM, we used tamoxifen to induce YFP expression in chief cells of Mist1CreER/+;RosaYFP mice and subsequently treated the cells with L635 to induce SPEM at 1 to 3.5 mo after tamoxifen treatment. After L635 treatment to induce acute parietal cell loss, 43% of all YFP-positive cells at 1 mo posttamoxifen were SPEM cells, of which 44% of these YFP-positive SPEM cells were proliferative. By 2 mo after tamoxifen induction, only 24% of marked SPEM cells were proliferating. However, by 3.5 mo after tamoxifen induction, only 12% of marked chief cells transdifferentiated into SPEM and none were proliferative. Thus, as chief cells age, they lose their ability to transdifferentiate into SPEM and proliferate. Therefore, both functional maturation and age limit chief cell plasticity.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Previous investigations have indicated that spasmolytic polypeptide-expressing metaplasia (SPEM) in the stomach arises from transdifferentiation of chief cells. Nevertheless, the intrinsic properties of chief cells that influence transdifferentiation have been largely unknown. We now report that the ability to transdifferentiate into SPEM is impaired in chief cells that lack full functional maturation, and as chief cells age, they lose their ability to transdifferentiate. Thus chief cell plasticity is dependent on both cell age and maturation.
Antihypertensive effects of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-β/δ activation
Authors: Toral Marta , Romero Miguel , Pérez-Vizcaíno Francisco , Duarte Juan , Jiménez Rosario
Published: November 2016

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors, which is composed of three members encoded by distinct genes: PPARα, PPARβ/δ, and PPARγ. The biological actions of PPARα and PPARγ and their potential as a cardiovascular therapeutic target have been extensively reviewed, whereas the biological actions of PPARβ/δ and its effectiveness as a therapeutic target in the treatment of hypertension remain less investigated. Preclinical studies suggest that pharmacological PPARβ/δ activation induces antihypertensive effects in direct [spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR), ANG II, and DOCA-salt] and indirect (dyslipemic and gestational) models of hypertension, associated with end-organ damage protection. This review summarizes mechanistic insights into the antihypertensive effects of PPARβ/δ activators, including molecular and functional mechanisms. Pharmacological PPARβ/δ activation induces genomic actions including the increase of regulators of G protein-coupled signaling (RGS), acute nongenomic vasodilator effects, as well as the ability to improve the endothelial dysfunction, reduce vascular inflammation, vasoconstrictor responses, and sympathetic outflow from central nervous system. Evidence from clinical trials is also examined. These preclinical and clinical outcomes of PPARβ/δ ligands may provide a basis for the development of therapies in combating hypertension.
PPARα augments heart function and cardiac fatty acid oxidation in early experimental polymicrobial sepsis
Authors: Standage Stephen W. , Bennion Brock G. , Knowles Taft O. , Ledee Dolena R. , Portman Michael A. , McGuire John K. , Liles W. Conrad , Olson Aaron K.
Published: November 2016

Children with sepsis and multisystem organ failure have downregulated leukocyte gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα), a nuclear hormone receptor transcription factor that regulates inflammation and lipid metabolism. Mouse models of sepsis have likewise demonstrated that the absence of PPARα is associated with decreased survival and organ injury, specifically of the heart. Using a clinically relevant mouse model of early sepsis, we found that heart function increases in wild-type (WT) mice over the first 24 h of sepsis, but that mice lacking PPARα ( Ppara−/−) cannot sustain the elevated heart function necessary to compensate for sepsis pathophysiology. Left ventricular shortening fraction, measured 24 h after initiation of sepsis by echocardiography, was higher in WT mice than in Ppara−/− mice. Ex vivo working heart studies demonstrated greater developed pressure, contractility, and aortic outflow in WT compared with Ppara−/− mice. Furthermore, cardiac fatty acid oxidation was increased in WT but not in Ppara−/− mice. Regulatory pathways controlling pyruvate incorporation into the citric acid cycle were inhibited by sepsis in both genotypes, but the regulatory state of enzymes controlling fatty acid oxidation appeared to be permissive in WT mice only. Mitochondrial ultrastructure was not altered in either genotype indicating that severe mitochondrial dysfunction is unlikely at this stage of sepsis. These data suggest that PPARα expression supports the hyperdynamic cardiac response early in the course of sepsis and that increased fatty acid oxidation may prevent morbidity and mortality.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY In contrast to previous studies in septic shock using experimental mouse models, we are the first to demonstrate that heart function increases early in sepsis with an associated augmentation of cardiac fatty acid oxidation. Absence of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα) results in reduced cardiac performance and fatty acid oxidation in sepsis.
Prophylactic and therapeutic treatment with the flavonone sakuranetin ameliorates LPS-induced acute lung injury
Authors: Bittencourt-Mernak Márcia Isabel , Pinheiro Nathalia M. , Santana Fernanda P. R. , Guerreiro Marina P. , Saraiva-Romanholo Beatriz M. , Grecco Simone S. , Caperuto Luciana C. , Felizardo Raphael J. F. , Câmara Niels O. S. , Tibério Iolanda F. L. C. , Martins Mílton A. , Lago João Henrique G. , Prado Carla M.
Published: November 2016

Sakuranetin is the main isolate flavonoid from Baccharis retusa ( Asteraceae) leaves and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities. Acute respiratory distress syndrome is an acute failure of the respiratory system for which effective treatment is urgently necessary. This study investigated the preventive and therapeutic effects of sakuranetin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice. Animals were treated with intranasal sakuranetin 30 min before or 6 h after instillation of LPS. Twenty-four hours after ALI was induced, lung function, inflammation, macrophages population markers, collagen fiber deposition, the extent of oxidative stress, and the expression of matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9), tissue inhibitor of MMP-9 (TIMP-1) and NF-κB were evaluated. The animals began to show lung alterations 6 h after LPS instillation, and these changes persisted until 24 h after LPS administration. Preventive and therapeutic treatment with sakuranetin reduced the neutrophils in the peripheral blood and in the bronchial alveolar lavage. Sakuranetin treatment also reduced macrophage populations, particularly that of M1-like macrophages. In addition, sakurnaetin treatment reduced keratinocyte-derived chemokines (IL-8 homolog) and NF-κB levels, collagen fiber formation, MMM-9 and TIMP-1-positive cells, and oxidative stress in lung tissues compared with LPS animals treated with vehicle. Finally, sakuranetin treatment also reduced total protein, and the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in the lung. This study shows that sakuranetin prevented and reduced pulmonary inflammation induced by LPS. Because sakuranetin modulates oxidative stress, the NF-κB pathway, and lung function, it may constitute a novel therapeutic candidate to prevent and treat ALI.
The effect of alternate-day caloric restriction on the metabolic consequences of 8 days of bed rest in healthy lean men: a randomized trial
Authors: Harder-Lauridsen Nina Majlund , Nielsen Signe Tellerup , Mann Sebastian Porsdam , Lyngbæk Mark Preben , Benatti Fabiana Braga , Langkilde Annika Reynberg , Law Ian , Wedell-Neergaard Anne-Sophie , Thomsen Carsten , Møller Kirsten , Karstoft Kristian , Pedersen Bente Klarlund , Krogh-Madsen Rikke
Published: November 2016

Physical activity and alternate-day fasting/caloric restriction may both ameliorate aspects of the metabolic syndrome, such as insulin resistance, visceral fat mass accumulation, and cognitive impairment by overlapping mechanisms. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that alternate-day caloric restriction (ADCR) with overall energy balance would reduce insulin resistance and accumulation of visceral fat, in addition to improving cognitive functions, after 8 consecutive days in bed. Healthy, lean men ( n = 20) were randomized to 1) 8 days of bed rest with three daily isoenergetic meals (control group, n = 10); and 2) 8 days of bed rest with 25% of total energy requirements every other day and 175% of total energy requirements every other day (ADCR group). Oral glucose tolerance testing, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans, magnetic resonance imaging of the abdomen and brain, V̇o2max, and tests for cognitive function were performed before and after bed rest. In addition, daily fasting blood samples and 24-h glucose profiles by continuous glucose monitoring system were assessed during the 8 days of bed rest period. Bed rest induced insulin resistance, visceral fat accumulation, and worsening of mood. No positive effects emerged from ADCR on these negative health outcomes. Compared with the control group, ADCR was associated with improved and steadier glycemic control on fasting days and higher glycemic fluctuation and indexes of insulin resistance on overeating days. In contrast to our hypothesis, the metabolic impairment induced by 8 days of bed rest was not counteracted by ADCR with overall energy balance.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Alternate-day caloric restriction without overall energy reduction does not ameliorate the metabolic impairment induced in lean men by 8 days of bed rest.
Variations in vibrissal geometry across the rat mystacial pad: base diameter, medulla, and taper
Authors: Belli Hayley M. , Yang Anne E. T. , Bresee Chris S. , Hartmann Mitra J. Z.
Published: November 2016

Many rodents tactually sense the world through active motions of their vibrissae (whiskers), which are regularly arranged in rows and columns (arcs) on the face. The present study quantifies several geometric parameters of rat whiskers that determine the tactile information acquired. Findings include the following. 1) A meta-analysis of seven studies shows that whisker base diameter varies with arc length with a surprisingly strong dependence on the whisker's row position within the array. 2) The length of the whisker medulla varies linearly with whisker length, and the medulla's base diameter varies linearly with whisker base diameter. 3) Two parameters are required to characterize whisker “taper”: radius ratio (base radius divided by tip radius) and radius slope (the difference between base and tip radius, divided by arc length). A meta-analysis of five studies shows that radius ratio exhibits large variability due to variations in tip radius, while radius slope varies systematically across the array. 4) Within the resolution of the present study, radius slope does not differ between the proximal and distal segments of the whisker, where “proximal” is defined by the presence of the medulla. 5) Radius slope of the medulla is offset by a constant value from radius slope of the proximal portion of the whisker. We conclude with equations for all geometric parameters as functions of row and column position.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Rats tactually explore their world by brushing and tapping their whiskers against objects. Each whisker's geometry will have a large influence on its mechanics and thus on the tactile signals the rat obtains. We performed a meta-analysis of seven studies to generate equations that describe systematic variations in whisker geometry across the rat's face. We also quantified the geometry of the whisker medulla. A database provides access to geometric parameters of over 500 rat whiskers.
Maintenance of neuronal size gradient in MNTB requires sound-evoked activity
Authors: Weatherstone Jessica H. , Kopp-Scheinpflug Conny , Pilati Nadia , Wang Yuan , Forsythe Ian D. , Rubel Edwin W. , Tempel Bruce L.
Published: November 2016

The medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) is an important source of inhibition during the computation of sound location. It transmits fast and precisely timed action potentials at high frequencies; this requires an efficient calcium clearance mechanism, in which plasma membrane calcium ATPase 2 (PMCA2) is a key component. Deafwaddler ( dfw 2J) mutant mice have a null mutation in PMCA2 causing deafness in homozygotes ( dfw 2J/ dfw 2J) and high-frequency hearing loss in heterozygotes (+/ dfw 2J). Despite the deafness phenotype, no significant differences in MNTB volume or cell number were observed in dfw 2J homozygous mutants, suggesting that PMCA2 is not required for MNTB neuron survival. The MNTB tonotopic axis encodes high to low sound frequencies across the medial to lateral dimension. We discovered a cell size gradient along this axis: lateral neuronal somata are significantly larger than medially located somata. This size gradient is decreased in +/ dfw 2J and absent in dfw 2J/ dfw 2J. The lack of acoustically driven input suggests that sound-evoked activity is required for maintenance of the cell size gradient. This hypothesis was corroborated by selective elimination of auditory hair cell activity with either hair cell elimination in Pou4f3 DTR mice or inner ear tetrodotoxin (TTX) treatment. The change in soma size was reversible and recovered within 7 days of TTX treatment, suggesting that regulation of the gradient is dependent on synaptic activity and that these changes are plastic rather than permanent.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Neurons of the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) act as fast-spiking inhibitory interneurons within the auditory brain stem. The MNTB is topographically organized, with low sound frequencies encoded laterally and high frequencies medially. We discovered a cell size gradient along this axis: lateral neurons are larger than medial neurons. The absence of this gradient in deaf mice lacking plasma membrane calcium ATPase 2 suggests an activity-dependent, calcium-mediated mechanism that controls neuronal soma size.
Necrotizing Retinitis Secondary to Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection Associated with Severe Combined Immunodeficiency
Authors: Ozcan Pehmen Yasin , Celik Hasan Tolga , Sonmez Kenan , Celik Melda
Published: November 2016

A 20-day-old male infant who was born at 39 weeks of gestation was admitted to neonatal intensive care unit due to severe respiratory insufficiency. In retinal examination, peripheric retinal white-black color areas that correspond to necrotizing retinitis, moderate vitritis, macular and optic nerve head involvement, vascular leakage, and sheathing indicating perivasculitis were revealed. Despite the fact that CMV specific IgM was undetectable, CMV DNA with high viral load was found in his blood sample by means of real-time polymerase chain reaction assay. Serologic examination (IgM) for rubella, toxoplasma, herpes simplex type 2, and human immunodeficiency virus (anti-HIV) was negative. During the further evaluation for systemic immune dysfunction, decreased immunoglobulin and lymphocyte levels that confirm the diagnosis of severe combined immunodeficiency have been reached. Although given systemic intravenous ganciclovir and antibiotics treatment, the patient died at the 4th month of life due to respiratory insufficiency.
Synthesis of FeNi Alloy Nanomaterials by Proteic Sol-Gel Method: Crystallographic, Morphological, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: dos Santos Cássio Morilla , Martins Adanny Filipe Nogueira , Costa Bruna Carolina , Ribeiro Thiago Soares , Braga Tiago Pinheiro , Soares João Maria , Sasaki José Marcos
Published: November 2016

Proteic Sol-Gel method was used for the synthesis of FeNi alloy at different temperature conditions and flow reduction. The solids were characterized by XRD, H2-TPR, SEM, TEM, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and VSM. It was observed by X-ray diffraction pure FeNi alloy in the samples reduced at 600°C (40 mL/min H2 flow) and 700°C (25 mL/min H2 flow). The FeNi alloy presented stability against the oxidizing atmosphere up to 250°C. The morphology exhibited agglomerates relatively spherical and particles in the range of 10–40 nm. Mössbauer spectroscopy showed the presence of disordered ferromagnetic FeNi alloy, and magnetic hysteresis loop revealed a typical behavior of soft magnetic material.
An Analysis of Audio Features to Develop a Human Activity Recognition Model Using Genetic Algorithms, Random Forests, and Neural Networks
Authors: Galván-Tejada Carlos E. , Galván-Tejada Jorge I. , Celaya-Padilla José M. , Delgado-Contreras J. Rubén , Magallanes-Quintanar Rafael , Martinez-Fierro Margarita L. , Garza-Veloz Idalia , López-Hernández Yamilé , Gamboa-Rosales Hamurabi
Published: November 2016

This work presents a human activity recognition (HAR) model based on audio features. The use of sound as an information source for HAR models represents a challenge because sound wave analyses generate very large amounts of data. However, feature selection techniques may reduce the amount of data required to represent an audio signal sample. Some of the audio features that were analyzed include Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCC). Although MFCC are commonly used in voice and instrument recognition, their utility within HAR models is yet to be confirmed, and this work validates their usefulness. Additionally, statistical features were extracted from the audio samples to generate the proposed HAR model. The size of the information is necessary to conform a HAR model impact directly on the accuracy of the model. This problem also was tackled in the present work; our results indicate that we are capable of recognizing a human activity with an accuracy of 85% using the HAR model proposed. This means that minimum computational costs are needed, thus allowing portable devices to identify human activities using audio as an information source.
Protocol for Acupuncture Treatment of Lateral Elbow Pain: A Multisite Randomised Controlled Trial in China, Hong Kong, Australia, and Italy
Authors: Zaslawski Christopher , Berle Christine , Gadau Marcus , Li Wei Hong , Li Tie , Wang Fu Chun , Bangrazi Sergio , Li Lei , Liguori Stefano , Liu Yan Song , Tan Yuan Sheng , Zhang Shi Ping
Published: November 2016

Background. Lateral elbow pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal pains associated with the upper limb and has an estimated population incidence of 1–3%. Methods/Design. This study protocol is for a multisite randomised controlled study and is designed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of chronic (over three months’ duration) lateral elbow pain. Four study sites, in the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, Italy, and Australia, will recruit 24 participants each. A total of 96 participants will be randomised to either an acupuncture group or a sham laser control group. The primary outcome measure will be the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire with secondary outcome measures of Pain‐Free Grip Strength Test, Muscle Tension Test, and a pain visual analogue scale. Discussion. Key features for conducting a multisite international acupuncture randomised clinical trial have been detailed in this protocol. Trial Registration. This trial is registered at Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN12613001138774 on 11 October, 2013.
Plasmon-Waveguide Resonances with Enhanced Figure of Merit and Their Potential for Anisotropic Biosensing in the Near Infrared Region
Authors: Mahajna Said , Neumann Michal , Eyal Ofer , Shalabney Atef
Published: November 2016

The TM and TE guided modes in the coupled plasmon-waveguide resonance configuration are investigated in the spectral domain. Here we use the modes dispersion to study their capability for sensing in the near infrared region. It is shown that the spectral widths of the guided modes are, at least, one order of magnitude smaller than the conventional surface plasmon resonance counterpart. The enhanced sensitivity and figure of merit of the guided modes reveal their potential for sensing in the spectral interrogation method where the traditional configurations are inherently limited. Moreover, the high resolution associated with the narrow resonances and the polarization dependence make these modes very promising for anisotropic biosensing in the spectral interrogation approach. The extremely high figure of merit, large penetration depth, and propagation distance in the near infrared region open the possibility of combining the plasmon-waveguide configuration with absorption spectroscopy techniques for molecular recognition.
The Extract of Fructus Psoraleae Promotes Viability and Cartilaginous Formation of Rat Chondrocytes In Vitro
Authors: Pan Xin , Xu Kang , Qiu Xuefeng , Zhao Wen , Wang Dong , Yang Li
Published: November 2016

This study aimed to investigate the extract components of FP on rat chondrocyte function and cartilaginous formation in vitro. Petroleum ether extract (P‐e) of FP extract components was selected to treat Sprague‐Dawley rat chondrocytes. Cell viability was tested with different concentrations (0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μg/mL) of P‐e treatment. Concentrations of 0.1 and 1 μg/mL P‐e conditioned culture mediums were used for treating chondrocytes in experiments. Cell proliferation was measured via DNA incorporation assay. Type II collagen, aggrecan, and Sox‐9 genes expression levels were measured with RT‐PCR. Additionally, cartilaginous formation was analyzed with type II collagen immunofluorescence, H&E, and alcian blue staining. Concentrations of 0.1 and 1 μg/mL P‐e showed low cytotoxicity and demonstrated stimulatory effects on chondrocyte proliferation in early stages. Following 6 days of P‐e culture, aggrecan and Sox‐9 gene expression levels of the 1 μg/mL P‐e group were upregulated by 1.82‐ (p < 0.05) and 2.06‐fold (p < 0.05), respectively, versus controls. Moreover, 1 μg/mL P‐e significantly stimulated cell aggregation and type II collagen deposits after 1 week of treatment. Noteworthy, tight cartilaginous structures formed in the 10‐day 1 μg/mL P‐e conditioned culture. These findings suggest that P‐e has the potential to treat cartilage degeneration induced by chondrocyte failure.
Digital Recording and Documentation of Endoscopic Procedures: Do Patients and Doctors Think Alike?
Authors: Willner Nadav , Peled-Raz Maya , Shteinberg Dan , Shteinberg Michal , Keren Dean , Rainis Tova
Published: November 2016

Aims and Methods.Conducting a survey study of a large number of patients and gastroenterologists aimed at identifying relevant predictors of interest in digital recording and documentation (DRD) of endoscopic procedures. Outpatients presenting to the endoscopy unit at our institution for an endoscopy examination were anonymously surveyed, regarding their views and opinions of a possible recording of the procedure. A parallel survey for gastroenterologists was conducted.Results.417 patients and 62 gastroenterologists participated in two parallel surveys regarding DRD of endoscopic procedures. 66.4% of the patients expressed interest in digital documentation of their endoscopic procedure, with 90.5% of them requesting a copy. 43.6% of the physicians supported digital recording while 27.4% opposed it, with 48.4% opposing to making a copy of the recording available to the patient. No sociodemographic or background factors predicted patient’s interest in DRD. 66% of the physicians reported having recording facilities in their institutions, but only 43.6% of them stated performing recording. Having institutional guidelines for DRD was found to be the only significant predictor for routine recording.Conclusions.Our study exposes patients’ positive views of digital recording and documentation of endoscopic procedures. In contrast, physicians appear to be much more reluctant towards DRD and are centrally motivated by legal concerns when opposing DRD, as well as when supporting it.
Experimental Study on Autogenous and Drying Shrinkage of Steel Fiber Reinforced Lightweight-Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Zhao Shunbo , Li Changyong , Zhao Mingshuang , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: November 2016

Steel fiber reinforced lightweight-aggregate concrete (SFRLAC) has many advantages applied in structural engineering. In this paper, the autogenous shrinkage and drying shrinkage of SFRLAC for up to 270 days were measured, considering the effects of types of coarse and fine aggregates with the changes of water-to-binder ratio and volume fraction of steel fiber, respectively. The properties of mix workability, apparent density, and compressive strength of SFRLAC were also reported and discussed in relation to above factors. Test results show that the development of autogenous and drying shrinkage of SFRLAC was fast within 28 days and tended to be steady after 90 days. The development of autogenous shrinkage of SFRLAC reduced with the increasing water-to-binder ratio and by using the expanded shale with higher soundness and good water absorption, especially at early age within 28 days; the later drying shrinkage was reduced and the development of drying shrinkage was slowed down with the increasing volume fraction of steel fiber obviously; manufactured sand led to less autogenous shrinkage but greater drying shrinkage than fine lightweight aggregate in SFRLAC. The regularities of autogenous shrinkage and drying shrinkage of SFRLAC expressed as the series of hyperbola are analyzed.
Does Obesity Predispose Medical Intensive Care Unit Patients to Venous Thromboembolism despite Prophylaxis? A Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Peters Bradley J. , Dierkhising Ross A. , Mara Kristin C.
Published: November 2016

Background. Obesity is a significant issue in the critically ill population. There is little evidence directing the dosing of venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis within this population. We aimed to determine whether obesity predisposes medical intensive care unit patients to venous thromboembolism despite standard chemoprophylaxis with 5000 international units of subcutaneous heparin three times daily.Results. We found a 60% increased risk of venous thromboembolism in the body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2group compared to the BMI < 30 kg/m2group; however, this difference did not reach statistical significance. After further utilizing our risk model, neither obesity nor mechanical ventilation reached statistical significance; however, vasopressor administration was associated with a threefold risk.Conclusions. We can conclude that obesity did increase the rate of VTE, but not to a statistically significant level in this single center medical intensive care unit population.
Giant Cell Tumor: A Rare Condition in the Immature Skeleton—A Retrospective Study of Symptoms, Treatment, and Outcome in 16 Children
Authors: Strøm Thale M. Asp , Skeie Anette Torød , Lobmaier Ingvild Koren , Zaikova Olga
Published: November 2016

Background. Pediatric giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone is rare and the course of the disease in the immature skeleton is sparsely described. We performed a retrospective study addressing symptoms, treatment, and outcome in children with GCT.Methods. Review of medical records and images of patients with GCT. Patients were detected from our hospital prospective database and those with open epiphyseal cartilages were included.Results. 16 children (75% girls) from 6 to 15 years old were identified. Eight lesions (50%) were in long bones and 4 (25%) in flat bones. One lesion appeared to be purely epiphyseal. All patients had pain as the initial symptom. Local recurrence developed in 2 patients. 14 of 16 patients returned to normal activity with no sequelae. One patient developed anisomelia after surgery.Conclusions. The biological tumor behavior in children does not seem to differ from what is reported in adults. Lesions in flat bones are very unusual, but our data alone do not provide enough evidence to conclude that this is more common in the immature skeleton. Literature review showed only one previous case report describing a purely epiphyseal GCT. Intralesional curettage is appropriate treatment and gives good functional results with acceptable recurrence rates.
Partly Duffing Oscillator Stochastic Resonance Method and Its Application on Mechanical Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Dang Jian , Jia Rong , Luo Xingqi , Wu Hua , Chen Diyi
Published: November 2016

Due to the fact that the slight fault signals in early failure of mechanical system are usually submerged in heavy background noise, it is unfeasible to extract the weak fault feature via the traditional vibration analysis. Stochastic resonance (SR), as a method of utilizing noise to amplify weak signals in nonlinear dynamical systems, can detect weak signals overwhelmed in the noise. However, based on the analysis of the impact of noise intensity on SR effect, it is concluded that the detection results are dramatically limited by the noise intensity of measured signals, especially for incipient fault feature of mechanical system with poor working environment. Therefore, this paper proposes a partly Duffing oscillator SR method to extract the fault feature of mechanical system. In this method, to locate the appearance of weak fault feature and decrease noise intensity, the permutation entropy index is constructed to select the measured signals for the input of Duffing oscillator system. Then, according to the regulation of system parameters, a reasonable match between the selected signals and Duffing oscillator model is achieved to produce a SR phenomenon and realize the fault diagnosis of mechanical system. Experiment results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves a better effect on the fault diagnosis of mechanical system.
Noncoherent Spectral Optical CDMA System Using 1D Active Weight Two-Code Keying Codes
Authors: Yeh Bih-Chyun
Published: November 2016

We propose a new family of one-dimensional (1D) active weight two-code keying (TCK) in spectral amplitude coding (SAC) optical code division multiple access (OCDMA) networks. We use encoding and decoding transfer functions to operate the 1D active weight TCK. The proposed structure includes an optical line terminal (OLT) and optical network units (ONUs) to produce the encoding and decoding codes of the proposed OLT and ONUs, respectively. The proposed ONU uses the modified cross-correlation to remove interferences from other simultaneous users, that is, the multiuser interference (MUI). When the phase-induced intensity noise (PIIN) is the most important noise, the modified cross-correlation suppresses the PIIN. In the numerical results, we find that the bit error rate (BER) for the proposed system using the 1D active weight TCK codes outperforms that for two other systems using the 1D M-Seq codes and 1D balanced incomplete block design (BIBD) codes. The effective source power for the proposed system can achieve −10 dBm, which has less power than that for the other systems.
Evaluation of Beeswax Influence on Physical Properties of Lipstick Using Instrumental and Sensory Methods
Authors: Kasparaviciene Giedre , Savickas Arunas , Kalveniene Zenona , Velziene Saule , Kubiliene Loreta , Bernatoniene Jurga
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study was to optimize the lipsticks formulation according to the physical properties and sensory attributes and investigate the relationship between instrumental and sensory analyses and evaluate the influence of the main ingredients, beeswax and oil, with analysis of lipsticks properties. Central composite design was used to optimize the mixture of oils and beeswax and cocoa butter for formulation of lipsticks. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH free radical scavenging method spectrophotometrically. Physical properties of lipsticks melting point were determined in a glass tube; the hardness was investigated with texture analyzer. Sensory analysis was performed with untrained volunteers. The optimized mixture of sea buckthorn oil and grapeseed oil mixture ratio 13.96 : 6.18 showed the highest antioxidative activity (70 ± 0.84%) and was chosen for lipstick formulation. According to the sensory and instrumental analysis results, optimal ingredients amounts for the lipstick were calculated: 57.67% mixture of oils, 19.58% beeswax, and 22.75% cocoa butter. Experimentally designed and optimized lipstick formulation had good physical properties and high scored sensory evaluation. Correlation analysis showed a significant relationship between sensory and instrumental evaluations.
Combating Wear of ASTM A36 Steel by Surface Modification Using Thermally Sprayed Cermet Coatings
Authors: Shibe Vineet , Chawla Vikas
Published: November 2016

Thermal spray coatings can be applied economically on machine parts to enhance their requisite surface properties like wear, corrosion, erosion resistance, and so forth. Detonation gun (D-Gun) thermal spray coatings can be applied on the surface of carbon steels to improve their wear resistance. In the present study, alloy powder cermet coatings WC-12% Co and Cr3C2-25% NiCr have been deposited on ASTM A36 steel with D-Gun thermal spray technique. Sliding wear behavior of uncoated ASTM A36 steel and D-Gun sprayed WC-12% Co and Cr3C2-25% NiCr coatings on base material is observed on a Pin-On-Disc Wear Tester. Sliding wear performance of WC-12% Co coating is found to be better than the Cr3C2-25% NiCr coating. Wear performance of both these cermet coatings is found to be better than uncoated ASTM A36 steel. Thermally sprayed WC-12% Co and Cr3C2-25% NiCr cermet coatings using D-Gun thermal spray technique is found to be very useful in improving the sliding wear resistance of ASTM A36 steel.
Some Risk Factors of Chronic Functional Constipation Identified in a Pediatric Population Sample from Romania
Authors: Olaru Claudia , Diaconescu Smaranda , Trandafir Laura , Gimiga Nicoleta , Stefanescu Gabriela , Ciubotariu Gabriela , Burlea Marin
Published: November 2016

We conducted an observational study over a 1-year period, including 234 children aged 4–18 years and their caregivers and a matching control group. 60.73% of the children from the study group were males. Average age for the onset of constipation was 26.39 months. The frequency of defecation was 1/4.59 days (1/1.13 days in the control group). 38.49% of the patients in the sample group had a positive family history of functional constipation. The majority of children with functional constipation come from single-parent families, are raised by relatives, or come from orphanages. Constipated subjects had their last meal of the day at later hours and consumed fast foods more frequently than the children in the control sample. We found a statistically significant difference between groups regarding obesity/overweight and constipation (χ2=104.94,  df=2,  p<0.001) and regarding physical activity and constipation (χ2=18.419;  df=3;  p<0.001). There was a positive correlation between the number of hours spent watching television/using the computer and the occurrence of the disease (F= 92.162,p<0.001, and 95% Cl). Children from broken families, with positive family history, defective dietary habits, obesity and sedentary behavior, are at higher risk to develop chronic functional constipation.
Seborrheic Keratoses as the First Sign of Bladder Carcinoma: Case Report of Leser-Trélat Sign in a Rare Association with Urinary Tract Cancer
Authors: Stollmeier Aline , Rosario Bernardo Augusto , Mayer Bruna Loise , Frandoloso Gibran Avelino , Magalhães Francisco Luiz Gomide Mafra , Marques Gustavo Lenci
Published: November 2016

Introduction. Skin disorders can be the first manifestation of occult diseases. The recognition of typical paraneoplastic dermatoses may anticipate the cancer diagnosis and improve its prognosis. Although rarely observed, the sudden appearance and/or rapid increase in number and size of seborrheic keratoses can be associated with malignant neoplasms, known as the sign of Leser-Trélat. The aim of this report is to unveil a case of a patient whose recently erupted seborrheic keratoses led to investigation and consequent diagnosis of bladder cancer.Case Presentation. A 67-year-old man was admitted to the intensive care unit due to an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). On physical examination, multiple seborrheic keratoses on the back of the hands, elbows, and trunk were observed; the patient had a 4-month history of these lesions yet was asymptomatic. The possibility of Leser-Trélat syndrome justified the investigation for neoplasia, and a bladder carcinoma was detected by CT-scan. The patient denied previous hematuria or any other related symptoms. Many of the lesions regressed during oncologic treatment.Conclusion. Despite the critics on the validity of the sign of Leser-Trélat, our patient fulfills the description of the disease, though urinary malignancy is a rare association. That corroborates the need of further investigation when there is a possibility of paraneoplastic manifestation.