bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Modal Parameters in a Scale Model for a Railway Bridge
Authors: Ticona Melo Ladislao R. , Silva Ramon S. Y. R. C. , Bittencourt Tulio N. , Bezerra Luciano M.
Published: October 2015

Obtaining the dynamic parameters of a bridge is essential to validation of the model used in the dynamic analysis of the bridge. In order to implement methodologies for damage detection, many experimental modal identification tests are performed for estimating the modal parameters of structures, including the natural frequencies and mode shapes. This paper presents an experimental and numerical study for finding the modal parameters of an aluminum model built to scale of a real railway bridge. Although, so far no test has been performed on the real railway bridge for comparison with the scale model, this paper seeks to apply the scale model experimental and numerical techniques for obtaining the dynamic parameters of the bridge. The software SAP2000 was used for the numerical analyses and for the experimental aspect, the circle fit and the stochastic subspace identification methods are used. Numerical and experimental results showed good correlation.
Theoretical design of benzo[1,2-b:3,4-b′:5,6-b′′]tristhianaphthene and its derivatives as high performance organic semiconductors
Authors: Yin Jun , Chaitanya Kadali , Ju Xue-Hai
Published: October 2015

In order to probe the effects of substituents (F and CN) attached to benzo[1,2-b:3,4-[Formula: see text]:5,6-[Formula: see text]]tristhianaphthene (BTTP) on their charge carrier transport properties, we investigated the characteristics of molecular structures and charge transport properties of BTTP and its derivatives (BTTP1, BTTP2, BTTP3, BTTP4, and BTTP5). Six crystal structures were predicted by the Monte Carlo-simulated annealing method with the embedded electrostatic potential charges method. Even a subtle change of geometrical structures may result in a great change of the reorganization energy. With increasing numbers of substituted fluorine atoms, the reorganization energy of the BTTP derivative increases, which is disadvantageous to the electron transport. In contrast, the attachment of the electron-withdrawing cyano groups to BTTP decreases the reorganization energy and raises the electron affinity, which is beneficial to electron injection and charge carrier stabilization. The introduction of cyano groups also results in an enhancement of [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] interaction and leads to an increase in the transfer integrals. Among the six compounds, the novel compound BTTP4 has the largest electron mobility (1.154[Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text]) on account of its larger transfer integral and smaller reorganization energy, indicating that BTTP4 is a promising high-performance n-type organic semiconductor and worth to synthesize. The analysis of angular-resolution anisotropic mobilities for the BTTP and BTTP4 shows that it is helpful to control the orientations of the conducting channels for a better charge transport efficiency. This work provides a rational strategy for the design of high-performance n-type organic semiconductors from molecule to crystal structure.
Efficient Calculations of Faithfully Rounded
l
2
-Norms of
n
-Vectors
Authors: Graillat Stef , Lauter Christoph , Tang PING Tak Peter , Yamanaka Naoya , Oishi Shin’ichi
Published: October 2015

In this article, we present an efficient algorithm to compute the faithful rounding of the
l
2
-norm of a floating-point vector. This means that the result is accurate to within 1 bit of the underlying floating-point type. This algorithm does not generate overflows or underflows spuriously, but does so when the final result calls for such a numerical exception to be raised. Moreover, the algorithm is well suited for parallel implementation and vectorization. The implementation runs up to 3 times faster than the netlib version on current processors.
Algorithm 953
Authors: Granat Robert , Kågström Bo , Kressner Daniel , Shao Meiyue
Published: October 2015

Library software implementing a parallel small-bulge multishift QR algorithm with Aggressive Early Deflation (AED) targeting distributed memory high-performance computing systems is presented. Starting from recent developments of the parallel multishift QR algorithm [Granat et al., SIAM J. Sci. Comput. 32(4), 2010], we describe a number of algorithmic and implementation improvements. These include communication avoiding algorithms via data redistribution and a refined strategy for balancing between multishift QR sweeps and AED. Guidelines concerning several important tunable algorithmic parameters are provided. As a result of these improvements, a computational bottleneck within AED has been removed in the parallel multishift QR algorithm. A performance model is established to explain the scalability behavior of the new parallel multishift QR algorithm. Numerous computational experiments confirm that our new implementation significantly outperforms previous parallel implementations of the QR algorithm.
Energy Efficiency Techniques in Cloud Computing
Authors: Kaur Tarandeep , Chana Inderveer
Published: October 2015

The increase in energy consumption is the most critical problem worldwide. The growth and development of complex data-intensive applications have promulgated the creation of huge data centers that have heightened the energy demand. In this article, the need for energy efficiency is emphasized by discussing the dual role of cloud computing as a major contributor to increasing energy consumption and as a method to reduce energy wastage. This article comprehensively and comparatively studies existing energy efficiency techniques in cloud computing and provides the taxonomies for the classification and evaluation of the existing studies. The article concludes with a summary providing valuable suggestions for future enhancements.
Clique Counting in MapReduce
Authors: Finocchi Irene , Finocchi Marco , Fusco Emanuele G.
Published: October 2015

We tackle the problem of counting the number

q
k

of
k
-cliques in large-scale graphs, for any constant
k
≥ 3. Clique counting is essential in a variety of applications, including social network analysis. Our algorithms make it possible to compute

q
k

for several real-world graphs and shed light on its growth rate as a function of
k
. Even for small values of
k
, the number

q
k

of
k
-cliques can be in the order of tens or hundreds of trillions. As
k
increases, different graph instances show different behaviors: while on some graphs
q

k
+ 1

<

q
k

, on other benchmarks
q

k
+ 1

»

q
k

, up to two orders of magnitude in our observations. Graphs with steep clique growth rates represent particularly tough instances in practice.

Due to the computationally intensive nature of the clique counting problem, we settle for parallel solutions in the MapReduce framework, which has become in the last few years a de facto standard for batch processing of massive datasets. We give both theoretical and experimental contributions.

On the theory side, we design the first exact scalable algorithm for counting (and listing)
k
-cliques in MapReduce. Our algorithm uses
O
(
m
3/2
) total space and
O
(
m

k
/2

) work, where
m
is the number of graph edges. This matches the best-known bounds for triangle listing when
k
= 3 and is work optimal in the worst case for any
k
, while keeping the communication cost independent of
k
. We also design sampling-based estimators that can dramatically reduce the running time and space requirements of the exact approach, while providing very accurate solutions with high probability.

We then assess the effectiveness of different clique counting approaches through an extensive experimental analysis over the Amazon EC2 platform, considering both our algorithms and their state-of-the-art competitors. The experimental results clearly highlight the algorithm of choice in different scenarios and prove our exact approach to be the most effective when the number of
k
-cliques is large, gracefully scaling to nontrivial values of
k
even on clusters of small/medium size. Our approximation algorithms achieve extremely accurate estimates and large speedups, especially on the toughest instances for the exact algorithms.
In-Network Trajectory Privacy Preservation
Authors: Guo Mingming , Jin Xinyu , Pissinou Niki , Zanlongo Sebastian , Carbunar Bogdan , Iyengar S. S.
Published: October 2015

Recent advances in mobile device, wireless networking, and positional technologies have helped location-aware applications become pervasive. However, location trajectory privacy concerns hinder the adoptability of such applications. In this article, we survey existing trajectory privacy work in the context of wireless sensor networks, location-based services, and geosocial networks. In each context, we categorize and summarize the main techniques according to their own feathers. Furthermore, we discuss future trajectory privacy research challenges and directions.
Detecting Malicious Data Injections in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Illiano Vittorio P. , Lupu Emil C.
Published: October 2015

Wireless Sensor Networks are widely advocated to monitor environmental parameters, structural integrity of the built environment and use of urban spaces, services and utilities. However, embedded sensors are vulnerable to compromise by external actors through malware but also through their wireless and physical interfaces. Compromised sensors can be made to report false measurements with the aim to produce inappropriate and potentially dangerous responses. Such malicious data injections can be particularly difficult to detect if multiple sensors have been compromised as they could emulate plausible sensor behaviour such as failures or detection of events where none occur. This survey reviews the related work on malicious data injection in wireless sensor networks, derives general principles and a classification of approaches within this domain, compares related studies and identifies areas that require further investigation.
An Improved Clustering Cooperative Spectrum Sensing Algorithm Based on Modified Double-Threshold Energy Detection and Its Optimization in Cognitive Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Wang Shubin , Liu Huiqin , Liu Kun
Published: October 2015

Cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) is a very important technique in cognitive wireless sensor networks, but the channel and multipath affect the sensing performance. For improving the sensing performance, this paper incorporates a modified double-threshold energy detection (MDTED) and the location and channel information to improve the clustering cooperative spectrum sensing (CCSS) algorithm. Within each cluster, the cognitive node with the best channel quality to the fusion center (FC) is chosen as the cluster head (CH), and each node uses the MDTED. The detective information is sent to CH, and CH makes the decision of the cluster. The decision information is sent to FC by each CH, and FC uses the “or” rule to fuse all clusters’ decision information and makes a final decision. Since MDTED needs to transfer large traffic and occupy channel widely, this paper further optimizes the improved algorithm. Ensuring the detection performance, the cognitive nodes participating in the sensing are properly reduced. Simulation results show that the detecting accuracy of the improved algorithm is higher than conventional CSS, and the improved algorithm can also significantly improve collaborative sensing ability. For the optimization of cognitive nodes’ number, the detection probability of the network can be obviously increased.
Preparation of Associative Polyurethane Thickener and Its Thickening Mechanism Research
Authors: Nan Gao , Zhuo Zhang , Qingzhi Dong
Published: October 2015

Associative polyurethane (PU) thickener has been synthesized by preparing the prepolymer with the reaction of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), which then end‐capping with long‐chain alkanol. The synthesis process, as well as hydrophilic chain length, theoretical molecular weight, solvent ratio, and thickener percentages, has been researched. The results shows that it reaches the upmost thickening effect when the theoretical molecular weight is under 20000, soft‐segment length is under 4000, solvent ratio is 1 : 1, and thickener percentages are controlled at 10%. Furthermore, thickening mechanism of PU thickener has been analyzed detailedly through the measurement of the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of PU thickener and analysis of the influence of PU thickener on the particle size and morphology of PU dispersions. It has been observed from the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) that the PU aqueous dispersions produce a certain degree of flocculation when the PU thickener was added, and this flocculation structure has been proved to be a thixotropic structure through the characterization of the change of particle size before and after the thickener is introduced into the PU aqueous dispersions. The CMC measurement results present that the thickening effect will be apparent when the concentration is controlled in a low range.
Screw Performance Degradation Assessment Based on Quantum Genetic Algorithm and Dynamic Fuzzy Neural Network
Authors: Zhang Xiaochen , Gao Hongli , Huang Haifeng
Published: October 2015

To evaluate the performance of ball screw, screw performance degradation assessment technology based on quantum genetic algorithm (QGA) and dynamic fuzzy neural network (DFNN) is studied. The ball screw of the CINCINNATIV5-3000 machining center is treated as the study object. Two Kistler 8704B100M1 accelerometers and a Kistler 8765A250M5 three-way accelerometer are installed to monitor the degradation trend of screw performance. First, screw vibration signal features are extracted both in time domain and frequency domain. Then the feature vectors can be obtained by principal component analysis (PCA). Second, the initialization parameters of the DFNN are optimized by means of QGA. Finally, the feature vectors are inputted to DFNN for training and then get the screw performance degradation model. The experiment results show that the screw performance degradation model could effectively evaluate the performance of NC machine screw.
Goal-Directed Resuscitation Aiming Cardiac Index Masks Residual Hypovolemia: An Animal Experiment
Authors: Tánczos Krisztián , Németh Márton , Trásy Domonkos , László Ildikó , Palágyi Péter , Szabó Zsolt , Varga Gabriella , Kaszaki József
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study was to compare stroke volume (SVI) to cardiac index (CI) guided resuscitation in a bleeding-resuscitation experiment. Twenty six pigs were randomized and bled in both groups till baseline SVI (Tbsl) dropped by 50% (T0), followed by resuscitation with crystalloid solution until initial SVI or CI was reached (T4). Similar amount of blood was shed but animals received significantly less fluid in the CI-group as in the SVI-group: median = 900 (interquartile range: 850–1780) versus 1965 (1584–2165) mL,p=0.02, respectively. In the SVI-group all variables returned to their baseline values, but in the CI-group animals remained underresuscitated as indicated by SVI, heart rate (HR) and stroke volume variation (SVV), and central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO2) atT4as compared toTbsl: SVI = 23.8 ± 5.9 versus 31.4 ± 4.7 mL, HR: 117 ± 35 versus 89 ± 11/min SVV: 17.4 ± 7.6 versus 11.5 ± 5.3%, andScvO2: 64.1 ± 11.6 versus 79.2 ± 8.1%,p<0.05, respectively. Our results indicate that CI-based goal-directed resuscitation may result in residual hypovolaemia, as bleeding caused stress induced tachycardia “normalizes” CI, without restoring adequate SVI. As the SVI-guided approach normalized most hemodynamic variables, we recommend using SVI instead of CI as the primary goal of resuscitation during acute bleeding.
Acute Putrescine Supplementation with Schwann Cell Implantation Improves Sensory and Serotonergic Axon Growth and Functional Recovery in Spinal Cord Injured Rats
Authors: Iorgulescu J. Bryan , Patel Samik P. , Louro Jack , Andrade Christian M. , Sanchez Andre R. , Pearse Damien D.
Published: October 2015

Schwann cell (SC) transplantation exhibits significant potential for spinal cord injury (SCI) repair and its use as a therapeutic modality has now progressed to clinical trials for subacute and chronic human SCI. Although SC implants provide a receptive environment for axonal regrowth and support functional recovery in a number of experimental SCI models, axonal regeneration is largely limited to local systems and the behavioral improvements are modest without additional combinatory approaches. In the current study we investigated whether the concurrent delivery of the polyamine putrescine, started either 30 min or 1 week after SCI, could enhance the efficacy of SCs when implanted subacutely (1 week after injury) into the contused rat spinal cord. Polyamines are ubiquitous organic cations that play an important role in the regulation of the cell cycle, cell division, cytoskeletal organization, and cell differentiation. We show that the combination of putrescine with SCs provides a significant increase in implant size, an enhancement in axonal (sensory and serotonergic) sparing and/or growth, and improved open field locomotion after SCI, as compared to SC implantation alone. These findings demonstrate that polyamine supplementation can augment the effectiveness of SCs when used as a therapeutic approach for subacute SCI repair.
The Stability of Solutions for the Generalized Degasperis-Procesi Equation with Variable Coefficients
Authors: Chen Jing
Published: October 2015

A generalized Degasperis-Procesi equation with variable coefficients is investigated. TheL1(R)stability of the strong solution for the equation is established under certain assumptions.
Nurses’ and Nursing Students’ Knowledge and Attitudes regarding Pediatric Pain
Authors: Ortiz Mario I. , Ponce-Monter Héctor A. , Rangel-Flores Eduardo , Castro-Gamez Blanca , Romero-Quezada Luis C. , O’Brien Jessica P. , Romo-Hernández Georgina , Escamilla-Acosta Marco A.
Published: October 2015

Nursing staff spend more time with patients with pain than any other health staff member. For this reason, the nurse must possess the basic knowledge to identify the presence of pain in patients, to measure its intensity and make the steps necessary for treatment. Therefore, a prospective, descriptive, analytical, and cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the knowledge and attitudes regarding pediatric pain in two different populations. The questionnaire, Pediatric Nurses Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain (PKNAS), was applied to 111 hospital pediatric nurses and 300 university nursing students. The final scores for pediatric nurses and nursing students were 40.1 ± 7.9 and 40.3 ± 7.5, respectively. None of the sociodemographic variables predicted the scores obtained by the participants (P>0.05). There was a high correlation between the PKNAS scores of pediatric nurses and nursing students (r=0.86,P<0.001). It was observed that the degree of knowledge about pain and its treatment was very low in both groups. Due to this deficiency, pain in children remains inadequately managed, which leads to suffering in this population. It is necessary to increase the continued training in this subject in both areas.
Antifungal Effect of Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula angustifolia) and Clotrimazole onCandida albicans: AnIn VitroStudy
Authors: Behmanesh Fereshteh , Pasha Hajar , Sefidgar Ali Asghar , Taghizadeh Mohsen , Moghadamnia Ali Akbar , Adib Rad Hajar , Shirkhani Leyla
Published: October 2015

Background. The treatment of candidiasis infections is an important problem in the health care system. This study aimed to investigate thein vitroeffect of lavender essential oil and clotrimazole on isolatedC. albicansfrom vaginal candidiasis.Materials and Methods. In this clinical trial,C. albicansisolated from the vaginal discharge samples was obtained.Results. The pairwise comparison showed that lavender and clotrimazole had a significant difference; this difference in the lavender group was lower than clotrimazole. But, after 48 hours, there was no difference seen between groups. There was a significant difference between clotrimazole and DMSO groups. Comparing the changes between groups based on the same dilution, at 24 h and 48 h in clotrimazole group, showed a significant difference two times in the fungal cell count that its average during 48 h was less than 24 h. A significant difference was observed between the two periods in lavender group, only at the dilutions of 1/20 and 1/80. The average fungal cell count after 48 h was also lower in lavender group.Conclusions. Given that the lavender has antifungal activity, this can be used as an antifungal agent. However, more clinical studies are necessary to validate its use in candida infection.
Wheelchair Propulsion Biomechanics in Junior Basketball Players: A Method for the Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Specific Training Program
Authors: Bergamini Elena , Morelli Francesca , Marchetti Flavia , Vannozzi Giuseppe , Polidori Lorenzo , Paradisi Francesco , Traballesi Marco , Cappozzo Aurelio , Delussu Anna Sofia
Published: October 2015

As participation in wheelchair sports increases, the need of quantitative assessment of biomechanical performance indicators and of sports- and population-specific training protocols has become central. The present study focuses on junior wheelchair basketball and aims at (i) proposing a method to identify biomechanical performance indicators of wheelchair propulsion using an instrumented in-field test and (ii) developing a training program specific for the considered population and assessing its efficacy using the proposed method. Twelve athletes (10 M, 2 F, age = 17.1 ± 2.7 years, years of practice = 4.5 ± 1.8) equipped with wheelchair- and wrist-mounted inertial sensors performed a 20-metre sprint test. Biomechanical parameters related to propulsion timing, progression force, and coordination were estimated from the measured accelerations and used in a regression model where the time to complete the test was set as dependent variable. Force- and coordination-related parameters accounted for 80% of the dependent variable variance. Based on these results, a training program was designed and administered for three months to six of the athletes (the others acting as control group). The biomechanical indicators proved to be effective in providing additional information about the wheelchair propulsion technique with respect to the final test outcome and demonstrated the efficacy of the developed program.
Mixed Convection Flow of Magnetic Viscoelastic Polymer from a Nonisothermal Wedge with Biot Number Effects
Authors: Abdul Gaffar S. , Prasad V. Ramachandra , Vijaya Bhuvana , Beg O. Anwar
Published: October 2015

Magnetic polymers are finding increasing applications in diverse fields of chemical and mechanical engineering. In this paper, we investigate the nonlinear steady boundary layer flow and heat transfer of such fluids from a nonisothermal wedge. The incompressible Eyring-Powell non-Newtonian fluid model is employed and a magnetohydrodynamic body force is included in the simulation. The transformed conservation equations are solved numerically subject to physically appropriate boundary conditions using a second-order accurate implicit finite difference Keller Box technique. The numerical code is validated with previous studies. The influence of a number of emerging nondimensional parameters, namely, the Eyring-Powell rheological fluid parameter (ε), local non-Newtonian parameter based on length scale (δ), Prandtl number (Pr), Biot number (γ), pressure gradient parameter (m), magnetic parameter (M), mixed convection parameter (λ), and dimensionless tangential coordinate (ξ), on velocity and temperature evolution in the boundary layer regime is examined in detail. Furthermore, the effects of these parameters on surface heat transfer rate and local skin friction are also investigated.
Decreased SplenicCD4+T-Lymphocytes in Apolipoprotein M Gene Deficient Mice
Authors: Wang Zhigang , Luo Guanghua , Feng Yuehua , Zheng Lu , Liu Hongyao , Liang Yun , Liu Zhonghua , Shao Peng , Berggren-Söderlund Maria , Zhang Xiaoying , Xu Ning
Published: October 2015

Spleen T-lymphocytes, especially CD4+T-cells, have been demonstrated to be involved in broad immunomodulation and host-defense activity in vivo. Apolipoprotein M gene (apoM) may have an important role in the regulation of immunoprocess and inflammation, which could be hypothesized to the apoM containing sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P). In the present study we demonstrate that the splenic CD4+T-lymphocytes were obviously decreased in the apoM gene deficient (apoM−/−) mice compared to the wild type (apoM+/+). Moreover, these mice were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and it was found that even more pronounced decreasing CD4+T-lymphocytes occurred in the spleen compared to the apoM+/+mice. The similar phenomena were found in the ratio of CD4+/CD8+T-lymphocytes. After administration of LPS, the hepatic mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) were markedly increased; however, there were no statistical differences observed between apoM+/+mice and apoM−/−mice. The present study demonstrated that apoM might facilitate the maintenance of CD4+T-lymphocytes or could modify the T-lymphocytes subgroups in murine spleen, which may further explore the importance of apoM in the regulation of the host immunomodulation, although the detailed mechanism needs continuing investigation.
Neuropharmacological Potential ofGastrodia elataBlume and Its Components
Authors: Jang Jung-Hee , Son Yeonghoon , Kang Seong Soo , Bae Chun-Sik , Kim Jong-Choon , Kim Sung-Ho , Shin Taekyun , Moon Changjong
Published: October 2015

Research has been conducted in various fields in an attempt to develop new therapeutic agents for incurable neurodegenerative diseases.Gastrodia elataBlume (GE), a traditional herbal medicine, has been used in neurological disorders as an anticonvulsant, analgesic, and sedative medication. Several neurodegenerative models are characterized by oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which lead to cell death via multiple extracellular and intracellular signaling pathways. The blockade of certain signaling cascades may represent a compensatory therapy for injured brain tissue. Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory compounds isolated from natural resources have been investigated, as have various synthetic chemicals. Specifically, GE rhizome extract and its components have been shown to protect neuronal cells and recover brain function in various preclinical brain injury models by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. The present review discusses the neuroprotective potential of GE and its components and the related mechanisms; we also provide possible preventive and therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders using herbal resources.
Performance of Recycled Porous Hot Mix Asphalt with Gilsonite Additive
Authors: Djakfar Ludfi , Bowoputro Hendi , Prawiro Bangun , Tarigan Nugraha
Published: October 2015

The objective of the study is to evaluate the performance of porous asphalt using waste recycled concrete material and explore the effect of adding Gilsonite to the mixture. As many as 90 Marshall specimens were prepared with varied asphalt content, percentage of Gilsonite as an additive, and proportioned recycled and virgin coarse aggregate. The test includes permeability capability and Marshall characteristics. The results showed that recycled concrete materials seem to have a potential use as aggregate in the hot mix asphalt, particularly on porous hot mix asphalt. Adding Gilsonite at ranges 8–10% improves the Marshall characteristic of the mix, particularly its stability, without decreasing significantly the permeability capability of the mix. The use of recycled materials tends to increase the asphalt content of the mix at about 1 to 2% higher. With stability reaching 750 kg, the hot mix recycled porous asphalt may be suitable for use in the local roads with medium vehicle load.
Life after Adolescent and Adult Moderate and Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Self-Reported Executive, Emotional, and Behavioural Function 2–5 Years after Injury
Authors: Finnanger Torun Gangaune , Olsen Alexander , Skandsen Toril , Lydersen Stian , Vik Anne , Evensen Kari Anne I. , Catroppa Cathy , Håberg Asta K. , Andersson Stein , Indredavik Marit S.
Published: October 2015

Survivors of moderate-severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) are at risk for long-term cognitive, emotional, and behavioural problems. This prospective cohort study investigated self-reported executive, emotional, and behavioural problems in the late chronic phase of moderate and severe TBI, if demographic characteristics (i.e., age, years of education), injury characteristics (Glasgow Coma Scale score, MRI findings such as traumatic axonal injury (TAI), or duration of posttraumatic amnesia), symptoms of depression, or neuropsychological variables in the first year after injury predicted long-term self-reported function. Self-reported executive, emotional, and behavioural functioning were assessed among individuals with moderate and severe TBI (N=67, age range 15–65 years at time of injury) 2–5 years after TBI, compared to a healthy matched control group(N=72). Results revealed significantly more attentional, emotional regulation, and psychological difficulties in the TBI group than controls. Demographic and early clinical variables were associated with poorer cognitive and emotional outcome. Fewer years of education and depressive symptoms predicted greater executive dysfunction. Younger age at injury predicted more aggressive and rule-breaking behaviour. TAI and depressive symptoms predicted Internalizing problems and greater executive dysfunction. In conclusion, age, education, TAI, and depression appear to elevate risk for poor long-term outcome, emphasising the need for long-term follow-up of patients presenting with risk factors.
Occurrence, Persistence, and Virulence Potential ofListeria ivanoviiin Foods and Food Processing Environments in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Alvarez-Ordóñez Avelino , Leong Dara , Morgan Ciara A. , Hill Colin , Gahan Cormac G. M. , Jordan Kieran
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence ofL. ivanoviiin foods and food processing environments in Ireland, to track persistence, and to characterize the disease causing potential of the isolated strains. A total of 2,006 samples (432 food samples and 1,574 environmental swabs) were collected between March 2013 and March 2014 from 48 food business operators (FBOs) belonging to different production sectors (dairy, fish, meat, and fresh-cut vegetable). Six of the forty-eight FBOs had samples positive forL. ivanoviion at least one sampling occasion.L. ivanoviiwas present in fifteen samples (fourteen environmental samples and one food sample). All but one of those positive samples derived from the dairy sector, whereL. ivanoviiprevalence was 1.7%. Six distinguishable pulsotypes were obtained by PFGE analysis, with one pulsotype being persistent in the environment of a dairy food business. Sequence analysis of thesigBgene showed that fourteen isolates belonged toL. ivanoviisubsp.londoniensis, while only one isolate wasL. ivanoviisubsp.ivanovii. Cell invasion assays demonstrated that the majority ofL. ivanoviistrains were comparable toL. monocytogenesEGDe in their ability to invade CACO-2 epithelial cells whilst four isolates had significantly higher invasion efficiencies.
Arctigenin fromFructus Arctii(Seed of Burdock) Reinforces Intestinal Barrier Function in Caco-2 Cell Monolayers
Authors: Shin Hee Soon , Jung Sun Young , Back Su Yeon , Do Jeong-Ryong , Shon Dong-Hwa
Published: October 2015

Fructus Arctiiis used as a traditional herbal medicine to treat inflammatory diseases in oriental countries. This study aimed to investigate effect ofF. Arctiiextract on intestinal barrier function in human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells and to reveal the active component ofF. Arctii. We measured transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) value (as an index of barrier function) and ovalbumin (OVA) permeation (as an index of permeability) to observe the changes of intestinal barrier function. The treatment ofF. Arctiiincreased TEER value and decreased OVA influx on Caco-2 cell monolayers. Furthermore, we found that arctigenin as an active component ofF. Arctiiincreased TEER value and reduced permeability of OVA from apical to the basolateral side but not arctiin. In the present study, we revealed thatF. Arctiicould enhance intestinal barrier function, and its active component was an arctigenin on the functionality. We expect that the arctigenin fromF. Arctiicould contribute to prevention of inflammatory, allergic, and infectious diseases by reinforcing intestinal barrier function.
Gearbox Fault Identification and Classification with Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Chen ZhiQiang , Li Chuan , Sanchez René-Vinicio
Published: October 2015

Vibration signals of gearbox are sensitive to the existence of the fault. Based on vibration signals, this paper presents an implementation of deep learning algorithm convolutional neural network (CNN) used for fault identification and classification in gearboxes. Different combinations of condition patterns based on some basic fault conditions are considered. 20 test cases with different combinations of condition patterns are used, where each test case includes 12 combinations of different basic condition patterns. Vibration signals are preprocessed using statistical measures from the time domain signal such as standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis. In the frequency domain, the spectrum obtained with FFT is divided into multiple bands, and the root mean square (RMS) value is calculated for each one so the energy maintains its shape at the spectrum peaks. The achieved accuracy indicates that the proposed approach is highly reliable and applicable in fault diagnosis of industrial reciprocating machinery. Comparing with peer algorithms, the present method exhibits the best performance in the gearbox fault diagnosis.
Antibodies against C1q Are a Valuable Serological Marker for Identification of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients with Active Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Chi Shuhong , Yu Yunxia , Shi Juan , Zhang Yurong , Yang Jijuan , Yang Lijuan , Liu Xiaoming
Published: October 2015

Objective. An early diagnosis of lupus nephritis (LN) has an important clinical implication in guiding treatments of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in clinical settings. In this study, the diagnostic values of circulating autoantibodies to C1q alone or in combination with other markers for accessing active SLE and LN were evaluated.Methods. The diagnostic value of anti-C1q autoantibodies for identification of patients with active SLE disease and LN was evaluated by analyzing the level of anti-C1q antibodies in sera from 95 SLE patients, 40 non-SLE patients, and 34 healthy cohorts.Results. The prevalence of anti-C1q antibodies was significantly higher in patients with SLE (50/95, 52.6%), active SLE (40/51, 78.4%), and LN (30/35, 85.7%) in comparison with non-SLE patient controls, patients with inactive SLE, and non-LN, respectively. A combination of anti-C1q with anti-dsDNA and/or levels of complements C3 and C4 exhibited an increased specificity but a decreased sensitivity for identification of patients with active SLE and LN diseases relative to each of these markers alone.Conclusion. Anti-C1q antibodies were strongly associated with disease activity and LN in SLE patients, suggesting that it may be a reliable serological marker for identification of SLE patients with active LN and active SLE disease.
Psychosocial Predictors for Cancer Prevention Behaviors in Workplace Using Protection Motivation Theory
Authors: Zare Sakhvidi Mohammad Javad , Zare Maryam , Mostaghaci Mehrdad , Mehrparvar Amir Houshang , Morowatisharifabad Mohammad Ali , Naghshineh Elham
Published: October 2015

Backgrounds.The aim of this study was to describe the preventive behaviors of industrial workers and factors influencing occupational cancer prevention behaviors using protection motivation theory.Methods.A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 161 petrochemical workers in Iran in 2014 which consisted of three sections: background information, protection motivation theory measures, and occupational cancers preventive behaviors.Results.A statistically significant positive correlation was found between PM and self-efficacy, response efficacy, and the cancer preventive behaviors. Meanwhile, statistically significant negative correlations were found between PM, cost, and reward.Conclusions.Among available PMT constructs, only self-efficacy and cost were significant predictors of preventive behaviors. Protection motivation model based health promotion interventions with focus on self-efficacy and cost would be desirable in the case of occupational cancers prevention.
Progressive Lower Extremity Weakness and Axonal Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy from a Mutation inKIF5A(c.611G>A;p.Arg204Gln)
Authors: Jerath Nivedita U. , Grider Tiffany , Shy Michael E.
Published: October 2015

Introduction. Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP) is a rare hereditary disorder that primarily involves progressive spasticity of the legs (hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves).Methods. A 27-year-old gentleman was a fast runner and able to play soccer until age 9 when he developed slowly progressive weakness. He was wheelchair-bound by age 25. He was evaluated by laboratory testing, imaging, electrodiagnostics, and molecular genetics.Results. Electrodiagnostic testing revealed an axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy. Genetic testing for HSP in 2003 was negative; repeat testing in 2013 revealed a mutation in KIF5A (c.611G>A;p.Arg204Gln).Conclusions. A recent advance in neurogenetics has allowed for more genes and mutations to be identified; over 76 different genetic loci for HSP and 59 gene products are currently known. Even though our patient had a sensorimotor polyneuropathy on electrodiagnostic testing and a 2003 HSP genetic panel that was negative, a repeat HSP genetic panel was performed in 2013 due to the advancement in neurogenetics. This revealed a mutation inKIF5A.
The Use of Endobronchial Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Subacute Pulmonary Histoplasmosis
Authors: Egressy Katarine von Lang , Mohammed Mohammed , Ferguson J. Scott
Published: October 2015

Objective. Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) utility in diagnosis in malignant and granulomatous mediastinal disease has been well demonstrated. We propose to examine the role of EBUS transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) in the diagnosis of subacute pulmonary histoplasmosis (SPH) with mediastinal lymphadenopathy in an area where histoplasmosis is endemic. Methods. A retrospective review was performed in a single academic institution between 2009 and 2012 of patients referred for EBUS-TBNA who had radiographic imaging and clinical symptomatology suspicious for SPH. Seven patients were reviewed. TBNA results showing granulomatous disease with areas of necrosis in the appropriate clinical setting were considered to be adequate for the diagnosis of SPH when alternative diagnosis was excluded. Patients underwent further clinical follow-up of 12 months to determine the final diagnosis. Results. All seven patients were felt to have SPH diagnosis reached by a combination of clinical presentation, EBUS-TBNA results, fungal serologies, and antigen testing. None of the patients needed further invasive procedures. Conclusions. EBUS-TBNA is a minimally invasive tool that can be used to support a diagnosis of SPH in patients with a high degree of clinical suspicion. EBUS-TBNA should be considered as an adjunctive diagnostic procedure for patients with SPH in an appropriate clinical setting.
Three-Dimensional Path Planning Method for Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Based on Modified Firefly Algorithm
Authors: Liu Chang , Zhao Yuxin , Gao Feng , Liu Liqiang
Published: October 2015

Path planning is a classic optimization problem which can be solved by many optimization algorithms. The complexity of three-dimensional (3D) path planning for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) requires the optimization algorithm to have a quick convergence speed. This work provides a new 3D path planning method for AUV using a modified firefly algorithm. In order to solve the problem of slow convergence of the basic firefly algorithm, an improved method was proposed. In the modified firefly algorithm, the parameters of the algorithm and the random movement steps can be adjusted according to the operating process. At the same time, an autonomous flight strategy is introduced to avoid instances of invalid flight. An excluding operator was used to improve the effect of obstacle avoidance, and a contracting operator was used to enhance the convergence speed and the smoothness of the path. The performance of the modified firefly algorithm and the effectiveness of the 3D path planning method were proved through a varied set of experiments.
Adaptive Second-Order Synchronization of Two Heterogeneous Nonlinear Coupled Networks
Authors: Liu Bo , Li Shuang , Tang Xuhui
Published: October 2015

This paper investigates the second-order synchronization of two heterogeneous nonlinear coupled networks by introducing controller and adaptive laws. Based on Lyapunov stability properties and LaSalle invariance principle, it is proved that the position and the velocity of two heterogeneous nonlinear coupled networks are asymptotically stable. Finally, some numerical simulations are presented to verify the analytical results.
Effects of Exercise Training on Autonomic Function in Chronic Heart Failure: Systematic Review
Authors: Hsu Chung-Yin , Hsieh Ping-Lun , Hsiao Shu-Fang , Chien Meng-Yueh
Published: October 2015

Objectives. Cardiac autonomic imbalance accompanies the progression of chronic heart failure (CHF). It is unclear whether exercise training could modulate autonomic control in CHF. This study aimed to review systematically the effects of exercise training on heart rate recovery (HRR) and heart rate variability (HRV) in patients with CHF.Methods. Literatures were systematically searched in electronic databases and relevant references. Only published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on exercise training for CHF were eligible for inclusion. Outcome measurements included HRR and HRV parameters.Results. Eight RCTs were eligible for inclusion and provided data on 280 participants (186 men). The participants were 52–70 years of age with New York Heart Association functional class II-III of CHF. Each study examined either aerobic or resistance exercise. Two trials addressed outcome of HRR and six HRV among these studies. Two RCTs showed that moderate aerobic exercise could improve HRR at 2 minutes after exercise training in CHF. Five of six RCTs demonstrated positive effects of exercise training on HRV which revealed the increments in high frequency (HF) and decrements in LF (low frequency)/HF ratio after training.Conclusion. Participation in an exercise training program has positive effects on cardiac autonomic balance in patients with CHF.
Preliminary Phytochemical Screening and Biological Activities ofBulbine abyssinicaUsed in the Folk Medicine in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Kibiti Cromwell Mwiti , Afolayan Anthony Jide
Published: October 2015

Bulbine abyssinicaA. Rich. is used in traditional medicine to treat rheumatism, dysentery, bilharzia, cracked lips, back pain, infertility, diabetes mellitus, and gastrointestinal, vaginal, and bladder infections. Therefore, preliminary phytochemical screening, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties of the whole plant (acetone and aqueous extracts) were determined using standard procedures. Thein vitroantioxidant model assays revealed that the plant possesses free radical scavenging potential varying with free radical species. The species showed significant protein denaturation inhibitory activity with good protection against erythrocyte membrane lysis indicating anti-inflammatory potential. The results also showed that the species was active against the growth of all the selected eight diabetic status opportunistic bacteria except one. Moreover, the species is characterized by appreciable amounts of total phenols, flavonoids, flavanols, proanthocyanidins, and alkaloids. Traces amounts of saponins and tannins were also observed. Amongst the identified phytochemicals present, empirical searches identified them being antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agents. The identification of these phytochemical constituents with their known pharmacological properties indicates that this plant is a good source of the free radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agents. These findings also account for the multipharmacological use ofB. abyssinicain fork medicine.
Patellofemoral Joint Replacement and Nickel Allergy: An Unusual Presentation
Authors: Syed Farhan , Jenner Edward , Faisal Mohammad
Published: October 2015

Metal allergy is an unusual complication of joint replacement that may cause aseptic loosening and necessitate joint revision surgery. We present the case of nickel allergy causing aseptic loosening following patellofemoral joint replacement (PFJR) in a 54-year-old male. Joint revision surgery to a nickel-free total knee replacement was performed with good results. Our literature review shows that there is no evidence to guide the management of metal allergy in PFJR. The evidence from studies of total knee replacement is limited to retrospective case series and case reports and gives contradictory recommendations. The optimal management strategy for metal allergy in PFJR is not clear. We recommend allergy testing in patients with history of metal allergy and use of an allergen-free implant in those with positive tests. As there is no gold standard test to establish metal allergy, the choice of test should be guided by availability and recommendation from the local unit of dermatology and allergy testing. We recommend investigation for metal allergy in patients with implant loosening where other causes have been excluded.
A Novel Energy-Aware Approach for Locating Leaks in Water Pipeline Using a Wireless Sensor Network and Noisy Pressure Sensor Data
Authors: Mysorewala Muhammad , Sabih Muhammad , Cheded Lahouari , Nasir Mohammad Tariq , Ismail Muhammad
Published: October 2015

We propose a novel energy-aware approach to detect a leak and estimate its size and location in a noisy water pipeline using least-squares and various pressure measurements in the pipeline network. The novelty in our work hinges on the fusion of the duty-cycling (DC) and data-driven (DD) strategies, both well-known techniques for energy reduction in a wireless sensor network (WSN). To maximize the information gain and minimize the energy consumed by the WSN, we first study the effects of (a) various levels of sensor measurement uncertainty and (b) the use of the smallest possible number of pressure sensors on the overall accuracy of our approach. Using the DD strategy only, a noisy environment, and a small number of sensors, the performance of our scheme shows that, for small leak sizes, the estimation error in both leak location and size becomes unacceptably high. Next, using as few sensors as possible for an acceptable accuracy, we fused the DD strategy with the DC one to minimize the sensing, processing, and communication energies. The fusion approach yielded a better performance with significant energy saving, even in noisy environments. EPANET was used to model the pipeline network and leak and MATLAB to implement, analyze, and evaluate our fusion approach.