bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observers of Fuzzy Descriptor Systems with Time-Delays
Authors: Fan Hongbiao , Meng Min , Feng Jun-e
Published: July 2014

For discrete fuzzy descriptor systems with time-delays, the problem of designing fuzzy observers is investigated in this paper. Based on an equivalent transformation, discrete fuzzy descriptor systems with time-delays are converted into standard discrete systems with time-delays. Then, via linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach, both delay-dependent and delay-independent conditions for the existence of fuzzy state observers are obtained. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to illustrate the proposed method.
Docking Studies and Biological Activity of Fosinopril Analogs
Authors: Choudary Jayant , Kini Suvarna G. , Ranganath Pai Karkala Sreedhara , Mubeen Muhammad
Published: July 2014

The purpose of the present study was to determine the angiotensin-I converting enzyme inhibitory activity of few novel Fosinopril derivatives which were predicted to possess better ACE inhibitory activity and lesser side effects than the existing drug molecule. In vitro study was carried out to determine ACE inhibitory activity of six different Fosinopril analogs by spectrophotometric assay procedure. Analog A2 showed the highest activity compared to other analogs and as well as Fosinopril itself. Docking studies of the compounds were done with the help of VLife MDS 3.0 software using GRIP batch docking method to find out which derivative had a better docking with ACE. The compounds which showed the highest negative score in docking have also exhibited good ACE inhibitory activity.
Variation in the Prevalence of Domestic Violence between Neighboring Areas
Authors: Nouhjah Sedigheh , Latifi Seyed Mahmood
Published: July 2014

Domestic violence against women is an important health issue, but few studies have focused on city of residence and ethnic differences. To estimate the prevalence of various forms of domestic violence and certain related factors, with a specific focus on city of residence and ethnicity, we studied 1820 married women attending public health centers in 4 large cities in Khuzestan Province, southwestern Islamic Republic of Iran. We used an interviewer-administered questionnaire for data collection. The prevalence of some forms of lifetime domestic violence against women was 47.3%. The prevalence of physical, psychological, and any form of lifetime violence was the highest in Dezful (25.7%, 54.8%, and 57.7%, resp.). For sexual violence, the highest prevalence was reported in Ahvaz (17.7%). The highest prevalence of physical and sexual violence during any point of life was reported by Arab women (25.1% and 16.7%). The experience of all forms of violence was significantly associated with city of residence. Results of regression logistic analysis revealed that all of the forms of violence except psychological violence were statistically significantly associated with ethnicity (P<0.05).
Production of Conjugated Linoleic and Conjugatedα-Linolenic Acid in a Reconstituted Skim Milk-Based Medium by Bifidobacterial Strains Isolated from Human Breast Milk
Authors: Villar-Tajadura María Antonia , Rodríguez-Alcalá Luis Miguel , Martín Virginia , Gómez de Segura Aránzazu , Rodríguez Juan Miguel , Requena Teresa , Fontecha Javier
Published: July 2014

Eight bifidobacterial strains isolated from human breast milk have been tested for their abilities to convert linoleic acid (LA) andα-linolenic acid (LNA) to conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and conjugatedα-linolenic acid (CLNA), respectively. These bioactive lipids display important properties that may contribute to the maintenance and improvement human health. Three selectedBifidobacterium brevestrains produced CLA from LA and CLNA from LNA in MRS (160–170 and 210–230 μg mL−1, resp.) and, also, in reconstituted skim milk (75–95 and 210–244 μg mL−1, resp.). These bifidobacterial strains were also able to simultaneously produce both CLA (90–105 μg mL−1) and CLNA (290–320 μg mL−1) in reconstituted skim milk. Globally, our findings suggest that these bifidobacterial strains are potential candidates for the design of new fermented dairy products naturally containing very high concentrations of these bioactive lipids. To our knowledge, this is the first study describing CLNA production and coproduction of CLA and CLNA byBifidobacterium brevestrains isolated from human milk in reconstituted skim milk.
Perceived Difficulty with Physical Tasks, Lifestyle, and Physical Performance in Obese Children
Authors: Valerio Giuliana , Gallarato Valeria , D’Amico Osvaldo , Sticco Maura , Tortorelli Paola , Zito Eugenio , Nugnes Rosa , Mozzillo Enza , Franzese Adriana
Published: July 2014

We estimated perceived difficulty with physical tasks, lifestyle, and physical performance in 382 children and adolescents (163 obese, 54 overweight, and 165 normal-weight subjects) and the relationship between perceived physical difficulties and sports participation, sedentary behaviors, or physical performance. Perceived difficulty with physical tasks and lifestyle habits was assessed by interview using a structured questionnaire, while physical performance was assessed through the six-minute walking test (6MWT). Obese children had higher perceived difficulty with several activities of daily living, were less engaged in sports, and had lower physical performance than normal-weight or overweight children; on the contrary, they did not differ with regard to time spent in sedentary behaviors. Perceived difficulty in running and hopping negatively predicted sports participation (P<0.05and <0.01, resp.), while perceived difficulty in almost all physical activities negatively predicted the 6MWT, independently of BMI (P<0.01). Our results indicate that perception of task’s difficulty level may reflect an actual difficulty in obese children. These findings may have practical implications for approaching physical activity in obese children. Exploring both the perception of a task’s difficulty level and physical performance may be useful to design exercise programs that allow safe and successful participation.
Exercise Induced Rhabdomyolysis with Compartment Syndrome and Renal Failure
Authors: Bhalla Mary Colleen , Dick-Perez Ryan
Published: July 2014

Exertional rhabdomyolysis is sequela that is occasionally seen after strenuous exercise. The progression to compartment syndrome or renal failure is a rare complication that requires prompt recognition and treatment to prevent morbidity (Giannoglou et al. 2007). We present a case of a 22-year-old college football player who presented to the emergency department (ED) after a typical leg workout as part of his weight conditioning. He was found to have rhabdomyolysis with evidence of renal insufficiency. His condition progressed to bilateral compartment syndrome and renal failure requiring dialysis. After bilateral fasciotomies were performed he had resolution of his compartment syndrome. He continued to be dialysis dependent and had no return of his renal function at discharge 12 days after admission.
Optimal Convergence Rates for Solutions of the Monopolar Non-Newtonian Flows
Authors: Luo Zhi-qiang
Published: July 2014

This paper is concerned with the optimal convergence rates for solutions of the monopolar non-Newtonian flows. By using the energy methods, the perturbed weak solution of perturbed system asymptotically converges to the solution of the original system with the optimal rates(1+t)-1/4.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Worsens the Profile of Cardiometabolic Risk Markers and Decrease Indexes of Beta-Cell Function Independently of Insulin Resistance in Nondiabetic Women with a Parental History of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Sokup Alina , Ruszkowska-Ciastek Barbara , Walentowicz-Sadłecka Małgorzata , Grabiec Marek , Rość Danuta
Published: July 2014

Background. Women with a history of both parental type 2 diabetes (pt2DM) and previous gestational diabetes (pGDM) represent a group at high risk of cardiovascular events. We hypothesized that pGDM changes cardiometabolic risk markers levels as well as theirs associations with glucose indices in nondiabetic pt2DM women.Methods. Anthropometric parameters, glucose regulation (OGTT), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), beta-cell function, lipid levels, parameters of endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation were evaluated in 55 women with pt2DM, 40 with both pt2DM and pGDM 2–24 months postpartum, and 35 controls.Results. Prediabetes was diagnosed more frequently in women with both pt2DM and pGDM in comparison with women with only pt2DM (10 versus 8,P=0.04). The pGDM group had higher LDL-cholesterol, sICAM-1, tPa Ag, fibrinogen, and lower beta-cell function after adjustment for HOMA-IR, in comparison with pt2DM group. In pt2DM group postchallenge glucose correlated independently with hsCRP and in pGDM group fasting glucose with HOMA-IR.Conclusions. pGDM exerts a combined effect on cardiometabolic risk markers in women with pt2DM. In these women higher LDL-cholesterol, fibrinogen, sICAM-1, tPa Ag levels and decreased beta cell function are associated with pGDM independently of HOMA-IR index value. Fasting glucose is an important cardiometabolic risk marker and is independently associated with HOMA-IR.
Comparison of Reaction Response Time between Hand and Foot Controlled Devices in Simulated Microsurgical Testing
Authors: Pfister Marcel , Lue Jaw-Chyng L. , Stefanini Francisco R. , Falabella Paulo , Dustin Laurie , Koss Michael J. , Humayun Mark S.
Published: July 2014

Purpose. We hypothesized that reaction times (RTs) for a switch release are faster for hand-controlled than for foot-controlled switches for physiological and anatomical reasons (e.g., nerve conduction speed). The risk of accidental trauma could be reduced if the surgeon reacted quicker and therefore improve the surgical outcome.Method. We included 47 medical professionals at USC. Demographics and handedness were recorded. Under a microscope, a simple reaction time test was performed, testing all extremities multiple times in a random order. Additionally, a subjective questionnaire was administered.Results. The mean RTs for hands are 318.24 ms±51.13 and feet328.69±48.70. The comparison of hand versus foot showed significant shorter RTs for the hand (P=0.025). Partially significant differences between and within the experience level groups could be demonstrated by level of education (LE) and microscopic surgeries/week (MSW) (P=0.57–0.02). In the subjective questionnaire, 91.5% (n=43/47) of test subjects prefer to use hand controls.Conclusion. Our data show that the RT for hands is faster than feet. Similarly the subjective questionnaire showed a greater preference for hand actuation. This data suggest a hand-controlled ophthalmic instrument might have distinct advantages; however, clinical correlation is required.
Research on Adaptive Optics Image Restoration Algorithm by Improved Expectation Maximization Method
Authors: Zhang Lijuan , Li Dongming , Su Wei , Yang Jinhua , Jiang Yutong
Published: July 2014

To improve the effect of adaptive optics images’ restoration, we put forward a deconvolution algorithm improved by the EM algorithm which joints multiframe adaptive optics images based on expectation-maximization theory. Firstly, we need to make a mathematical model for the degenerate multiframe adaptive optics images. The function model is deduced for the points that spread with time based on phase error. The AO images are denoised using the image power spectral density and support constraint. Secondly, the EM algorithm is improved by combining the AO imaging system parameters and regularization technique. A cost function for the joint-deconvolution multiframe AO images is given, and the optimization model for their parameter estimations is built. Lastly, the image-restoration experiments on both analog images and the real AO are performed to verify the recovery effect of our algorithm. The experimental results show that comparing with the Wiener-IBD or RL-IBD algorithm, our iterations decrease 14.3% and well improve the estimation accuracy. The model distinguishes the PSF of the AO images and recovers the observed target images clearly.
Prolonged Sleep Deprivation and Continuous Exercise: Effects on Melatonin, Tympanic Temperature, and Cognitive Function
Authors: Davis Greggory R. , Etheredge Corey E. , Marcus Lena , Bellar David
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine tympanic temperature, melatonin, and cognitive function during a 36-hour endurance event. Nine male and three female participants took part in a 36-hour sustained endurance event without sleep (N=12, mean age =31.8±5.0yrs). Participants were stopped for data collection at checkpoints throughout the 36-hour event. Tympanic temperature was assessed, a psychomotor vigilance test (PVT) was administered, and saliva samples were collected. Salivary melatonin was determined via immunoassay. During the 36 hours of competition, melatonin levels were negatively correlated with the day of the race (rs=-0.277,P=0.039) and positively associated with nighttime (rs=0.316,P=0.021). Significant main effects of tympanic temperature (P<0.001), day of the competition (P=0.018), and a tympanic temperature*day of competition interaction (P<0.001) were used to predict minor lapses in attention. No associations between melatonin levels and cognitive function were observed (P>0.05). During the event tympanic temperature declined and was associated with an increase in lapses in attention. With sustained endurance events becoming more popular future research is warranted to evaluate the physiological impact of participation.
ANN-Based Control of a Multiboat Group for the Deployment of an Underwater Sensor Network
Authors: Michailidis Emmanouel T. , Tuna Gurkan , Gezer Gülsüm , Potirakis Stelios M. , Gulez Kayhan
Published: July 2014

Underwater sensor networks (USNs) can be used for several types of commercial and noncommercial applications. However, some constraints resulting from the nature of aquatic environments severely limit their use. Due to constraints such as large propagation latency, low-bandwidth capacity, and short-distance communications, a large number of USN nodes are deployed to provide reliability in most applications. In this study, an unattended deployment approach based on the use of an autonomous boat group is proposed. A map of the deployment zone and optimal locations of USN nodes are fed into the onboard computers of the boat group. After processing these data and determining paths to be followed, the boat group deploys sensor nodes at predetermined locations. During the deployment, the boat group is controlled by an artificial neural network- (ANN-) based control system for reducing path errors. A set of performance evaluations is given to prove efficiency of the proposed control system. Performance results show that the boat group can successfully follow a predefined path set and deploy USN nodes. The tradeoffs between energy consumptions, end-to-end delay, and number of hops between underwater relay nodes of energy-efficient USN are also examined. The results indicate that increasing the number of hops reduces the total energy consumption and the end-to-end delay.
Dorsally Placed Buccal Mucosal Graft Urethroplasty in Treatment of Long Urethral Strictures Using One-Stage Transperineal Approach
Authors: Tavakkoli Tabassi Kamyar , Ghoreifi Alireza
Published: July 2014

Objectives. To evaluate the results of one-stage buccal mucosal urethroplasty in treatment of long urethral strictures. Methods. This retrospective study was carried out on 117 patients with long urethral strictures who underwent one-stage transperineal urethroplasty with dorsally placed buccal mucosal grafts (BMG). Success was defined as no need for any intervention during the follow-up period. Results. Among 117 patients with mean age of 39.55±15.98 years, the strictures were located in penile urethra in 46 patients (39.32%), bulbar urethra in 33 (28.20%) and were panurethral in 38 (32.48%). The etiology of the urethral stricture was sexually transmitted disease (STD) in 17 (14.53%), lichen sclerosus in 15 (12.82%), trauma in 15 (12.82%), catheterization in 13 (11.11%), transurethral resection (TUR) in 6 (5.13%), and unknown in 51 (43.59%). The mean length of strictures was 9.31±2.46 centimeters. During the mean followup of 18.9±6.7 months success rate was 93.94% in bulbar strictures, 97.83% in penile strictures, and 84.21% in panurethral strictures (P value: 0.061). Conclusions. The success rate of transperineal urethroplasty with dorsally placed buccal mucosal grafts is equal in different sites of strictures with different etiologies. So reconstruction of long urethral strictures may be safely and effectively performed at a simple single operative procedure using this method of urethroplasty.
Molecular Mechanisms of Diabetic Retinopathy, General Preventive Strategies, and Novel Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Safi Sher Zaman , Qvist Rajes , Kumar Selva , Batumalaie Kalaivani , Ismail Ikram Shah Bin
Published: July 2014

The growing number of people with diabetes worldwide suggests that diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edema (DME) will continue to be sight threatening factors. The pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy is a widespread cause of visual impairment in the world and a range of hyperglycemia-linked pathways have been implicated in the initiation and progression of this condition. Despite understanding the polyol pathway flux, activation of protein kinase C (KPC) isoforms, increased hexosamine pathway flux, and increased advanced glycation end-product (AGE) formation, pathogenic mechanisms underlying diabetes induced vision loss are not fully understood. The purpose of this paper is to review molecular mechanisms that regulate cell survival and apoptosis of retinal cells and discuss new and exciting therapeutic targets with comparison to the old and inefficient preventive strategies. This review highlights the recent advancements in understanding hyperglycemia-induced biochemical and molecular alterations, systemic metabolic factors, and aberrant activation of signaling cascades that ultimately lead to activation of a number of transcription factors causing functional and structural damage to retinal cells. It also reviews the established interventions and emerging molecular targets to avert diabetic retinopathy and its associated risk factors.
Connexin 43 Expression on Peripheral Blood Eosinophils: Role of Gap Junctions in Transendothelial Migration
Authors: Vliagoftis Harissios , Ebeling Cory , Ilarraza Ramses , Mahmudi-Azer Salahaddin , Abel Melanie , Adamko Darryl , Befus A. Dean , Moqbel Redwan
Published: July 2014

Eosinophils circulate in the blood and are recruited in tissues during allergic inflammation. Gap junctions mediate direct communication between adjacent cells and may represent a new way of communication between immune cells distinct from communication through cytokines and chemokines. We characterized the expression of connexin (Cx)43 by eosinophils isolated from atopic individuals using RT-PCR, Western blotting, and confocal microscopy and studied the biological functions of gap junctions on eosinophils. The formation of functional gap junctions was evaluated measuring dye transfer using flow cytometry. The role of gap junctions on eosinophil transendothelial migration was studied using the inhibitor 18-a-glycyrrhetinic acid. Peripheral blood eosinophils express Cx43 mRNA and protein. Cx43 is localized not only in the cytoplasm but also on the plasma membrane. The membrane impermeable dye BCECF transferred from eosinophils to epithelial or endothelial cells following coculture in a dose and time dependent fashion. The gap junction inhibitors 18-a-glycyrrhetinic acid and octanol did not have a significant effect on dye transfer but reduced dye exit from eosinophils. The gap junction inhibitor 18-a-glycyrrhetinic acid inhibited eosinophil transendothelial migration in a dose dependent manner. Thus, eosinophils from atopic individuals express Cx43 constitutively and Cx43 may play an important role in eosinophil transendothelial migration and function in sites of inflammation.
Multiobjective Network Optimization for Soil Monitoring of the Loess Hilly Region in China
Authors: Liu Dianfeng , Liu Yaolin , Wang Mingze , Zhao Xiang
Published: July 2014

The soil monitoring network plays an important role in detecting the spatial distribution of soil attributes and facilitates sustainable land-use decision making. Reduced costs, higher speed, greater scope, and a loss of accuracy are necessary to design a regional monitoring network effectively. In this paper, we present a stochastic optimization design method for regional soil carbon and water content monitoring networks with a minimum sample size based on a modified particle swarm optimization algorithm equipped with multiobjective optimization technique. Our effort is to reconcile the conflicts between various objectives, that is, kriging variance, survey budget, spatial accessibility, spatial interval, and the amount of monitoring sites. We applied the method to optimize the soil monitoring networks in a semiarid loess hilly area located in northwest China. The results reveal that the proposed method is both effective and robust and outperforms the standard binary particle swarm optimization and spatial simulated annealing algorithm.
Efficacy of Primate Humoral Passive Transfer in a Murine Model of Pneumonic Plague Is Mouse Strain-Dependent
Authors: Graham V. A. , Hatch G. J. , Bewley K. R. , Steeds K. , Lansley A. , Bate S. R. , Funnell S. G. P.
Published: July 2014

New vaccines against biodefense-related and emerging pathogens are being prepared for licensure using the US Federal Drug Administration’s “Animal Rule.” This allows licensure of drugs and vaccines using protection data generated in animal models. A new acellular plague vaccine composed of two separate recombinant proteins (rF1 and rV) has been developed and assessed for immunogenicity in humans. Using serum obtained from human volunteers immunised with various doses of this vaccine and from immunised cynomolgus macaques, we assessed the pharmacokinetic properties of human and cynomolgus macaque IgG in BALB/c and the NIH Swiss derived Hsd:NIHS mice, respectively. Using human and cynomolgus macaque serum with known ELISA antibody titres against both vaccine components, we have shown that passive immunisation of human and nonhuman primate serum provides a reproducible delay in median time to death in mice exposed to a lethal aerosol of plague. In addition, we have shown that Hsd:NIHS mice are a better model for humoral passive transfer studies than BALB/c mice.
Recurrent Volvulus of an Ileal Pouch Requiring Repeat Pouchopexy: A Lesson Learnt
Authors: Myrelid Pär , Druvefors Pelle , Andersson Peter
Published: July 2014

Introduction. Restorative surgery for ulcerative colitis with ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) is frequently accompanied by complications. Volvulus of the ileal pouch is one of the most rarely reported late complications and to our knowledge no report exists on reoperative surgery for this condition.Case Report.A 58-year-old woman who previously had undergone restorative proctocolectomy due to ulcerative colitis with an IPAA presented with volvulus of the pouch. She was operated with a single row pouchopexy to the presacral fascia. Two months later she returned with a recurrent volvulus. At reoperation, the pouch was found to have become completely detached from the fascia. A new pexy was made by firmly anchoring the pouch with two rows of sutures to the presacral fascia as well as with sutures to the lateral pelvic walls. At follow-up after five months she was free of symptoms.Conclusion. This first report ever on reoperative surgery for volvulus of a pelvic pouch indicates that a single row pouchopexy might be insufficient for preventing retwisting. Several rows seem to be needed.
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in the Diagnosis of Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Authors: Magierski Radoslaw , Sobow Tomasz
Published: July 2014

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is considered to be the second most frequent primary degenerative dementing illness after Alzheimer’s disease (AD). DLB, together with Parkinson’s disease (PD), Parkinson’s disease with dementia (PDD) belong toα-synucleinopathies—a group of neurodegenerative diseases associated with pathological accumulation of theα-synuclein protein. Dementia due to PD and DLB shares clinical symptoms and neuropsychological profiles. Moreover, the core features and additional clinical signs and symptoms for these two very similar diseases are largely the same. Neuroimaging seems to be a promising method in differential diagnosis of dementia studies. The development of imaging methods or other objective measures to supplement clinical criteria for DLB is needed and a method which would accurately facilitate diagnosis of DLB prior to death is still being searched. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) provides a noninvasive method of assessing anin vivobiochemistry of brain tissue. This review summarizes the main results obtained from the application of neuroimaging techniques in DLB cases focusing on1H-MRS.
Performance Optimization of an Air-Standard Irreversible Dual-Atkinson Cycle Engine Based on the Ecological Coefficient of Performance Criterion
Authors: Gonca Guven , Sahin Bahri
Published: July 2014

This paper presents an ecological performance analysis and optimization for an air-standard irreversible Dual-Atkinson cycle (DAC) based on the ecological coefficient of performance (ECOP) criterion which includes internal irreversibilities, heat leak, and finite-rate of heat transfer. A comprehensive numerical analysis has been realized so as to investigate the global and optimal performances of the cycle. The results obtained based on the ECOP criterion are compared with a different ecological function which is named as the ecologic objective-function and with the maximum power output conditions. The results have been attained introducing the compression ratio, cut-off ratio, pressure ratio, Atkinson cycle ratio, source temperature ratio, and internal irreversibility parameter. The change of cycle performance with respect to these parameters is investigated and graphically presented.
Pressure Pulsations of the Blade Region in S‐Shaped Shaft‐Extension Tubular Pumping System
Authors: Yang Fan , Liu Chao
Published: July 2014

The three‐dimensional unsteady numerical method is applied to investigate the pressure fluctuation of the S‐shaft extension pumping system. Some monitor pointers are set at the key positions of blade region to capture the changing rules of the pressure pulsations, from which the data are collected through time‐domain and spectrum analysis. The predicted head and efficiency were validated by the comparison with the tested results, and the comparison result shows that the unsteady flow characteristic of pumping system can be simulated by this method. The pulsating amplitude decreases gradually from blade tip to hub, under the condition of large flow rate for both the inlet and outlet of the impeller, in the way different from the smaller flow rate condition. Through adjusting the impeller rotation speed and the number of blades, the dominant frequency can be controlled. For the same monitor point at the impeller, as the flow coefficient is becoming larger, the pulsating amplitude decreases, in which case, it decreases firstly and then increases between the impeller and the guide vane, and the pulsating amplitude is smallest on the high efficiency condition. The rotation speed of impeller has little effect on the dominant frequency at the outlet of guide vane.
The Prevalence of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors among Employees in the Kingdom of Bahrain between October 2010 and March 2011: A Cross-Sectional Study from a Workplace Health Campaign
Authors: AL-Nooh Ameera Ali , Abdulabbas Abdulla Alajmi Abdulhussain , Wood David
Published: July 2014

Background. High prevalence of CVD risk factors has been reported in Bahrain.Objective. This study aims to estimate the CVD risk factors prevalence among government employees in Bahrain.Design. A cross-sectional study design.Setting. Different government workplaces in Bahrain.Method. Data was collected from 1139 employees between October 2010 and March 2011 through interviews, including physical measurements, patient blood testing, and expired carbon monoxide (CO) levels as particles per million (ppm) for smokers. A summary of composite CVD risk factors was identified.Results. The following overall prevalence rates were reported: overweight and obesity 78.4% and reported hypertension 36.9% (included both those who were on and not on treatments), with an estimated prevalence of 21.6% for measured systolic blood pressure (Sbp) ≥ 140 mmHg and 23.3% for diastolic blood pressure (dbp) ≥90 mmHg. The prevalence of total cholesterol levels ≥5.2 mmol/dl was 24.2% and LDL levels >3.3 mmol/dl 10.8%. Prevalence of HDL-C levels (≤1.03 mmol/dl) was 47.55% and (≥1.5 mmol/dl) in 12.31%. The low HDL level (<1.03 mmol/dl) among males was 64.1%, while it was 26.6% among females. Half the participants (50.8%) do not engage in any type of physical activity. Moreover, 24.3% were not eating daily servings of fruits and vegetables. About 16.1% of them were current smokers. The majority of the participants (95.35%) had either no or less than 3 CVD risk factors. Only 4.65% had 3–5 risk factors.Conclusions. Among the employees in Bahrain, the high CVD risk factors prevalence is evident. CVD risk factors prevention and control are a priority.
Some Further Generalizations of Hölder's Inequality and Related Results on Fractal Space
Authors: Chen Guang-Sheng , Srivastava H. M. , Wang Pin , Wei Wei
Published: July 2014

We establish some new generalizations and refinements of the local fractional integral Hölder’s inequality and some related results on fractal space. We also show that many existing inequalities related to the local fractional integral Hölder’s inequality are special cases of the main inequalities which are presented here.
Photosensitization of Carbon Nitride Photoelectrodes with CdS: A Novel Architecture with Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Zhou Xiaosong , Yang Fei , Jin Bei , Xu Tang , Yang Yaqing , Yao Xiaohui
Published: July 2014

CdS with well-defined crystallinity is anchored on carbon nitride photoelectrodes by a successive chemical bath deposition. And the as-synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflection spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy techniques. The effect of the amount of CdS on the catalytic activity for the degradation of acid Orange II is investigated under visible light irradiation. Results show that the photoelectrodes composed of CdS/CN exhibit much higher catalytic activity than pure CN photoelectrodes. A possible photocatalytic mechanism of the CdS/CN electrodes is proposed under visible light irradiation.
Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Lumbar Spine: The Great Mimicker—Report of the Fifth Case
Authors: Sebaaly Amer , Raffoul Lara , Moussa Ronald
Published: July 2014

Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is a rare neoplasm occurring in the central nervous system. It rarely occurs in the spine. This paper reports the fifth case of SFT in a 34-year-old female and focusses on differential diagnosis and importance of surgical treatment.
An Alcohol‐Free SiO2 Sol‐Gel Matrix Functionalized with Acetic Acid as Drug Reservoir for the Controlled Release of Pentoxifylline
Authors: Angélica Alvarez Lemus Mayra , Castañeda Oscar Javier Ortiz , Hernández Pérez Alma Delia , González Rosendo López
Published: July 2014

Pentoxifylline (PTX) is a xanthine derivative, with hemorrheologic properties, that has been useful in the treatment of several diseases. However, a conventional route of administration implies high doses, what is unnecessary to the organism, seriously increasing the risk of toxicity because of side effects. Because of the facility to modify their surface, sol‐gel materials have proved to be suitable reservoirs for a variety of molecules for biological applications. In this work we prepared alcohol‐free SiO2 material by the sol‐gel process using acetic acid as surface modifier and hydrolysis catalyst, the alkoxide/water ratio (Rw) used was 1/16, and tetraethylorthosilicate was used as SiO2 precursor. Spectroscopic characterization was carried out by means of FTIR‐ATR and UV‐Visible spectroscopies; the results confirmed the presence of the drug and interactions between sol‐gel matrix and PTX. BET specific surface area values of the sol‐gel materials were 365 and 462 m2/g for SiO2 and PTX‐SiO2, respectively. Synthesized SiO2 nanoparticles showed efficient entrapment of PTX since a controlled release of 83% of drug content was reached.
Synergistic Effect of Nanosilica Aerogel with Phosphorus Flame Retardants on Improving Flame Retardancy and Leaching Resistance of Wood
Authors: Zhu Xiaodan , Wu Yiqiang , Tian Cuihua , Qing Yan , Yao Chunhua
Published: July 2014

Nanosilica (Nano‐SiO2) sol fabricated by a sol‐gel process was introduced into wood modification with phosphorus flame retardants to improve the flame retardancy and leaching resistance of wood. The obtained materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM‐EDS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), cone calorimetric (CONE), and infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). The residual rate of flame retardants before and after leaching was determinated by a leaching resistance. The results showed that the phosphorus flame retardants and SiO2 sol could reside in the poplar wood and are widely distributed in the vessels, pits, wood timber, and the spaces between wood cells of poplar substrate. TGA and CONE results indicated that the introduction of nano‐SiO2 aerogel with phosphorus flame retardants had a significantly synergistic effect on improving the flame retardancy and inhibiting the release of smoke and toxic gases. In addition, the leaching resistance test, combined with infrared analysis and EDS analysis, confirmed that the phosphorus flame retardants were able to be fixed by SiO2 aerogel in the wood.
Case Study on the Maintenance of a Construction Monitoring Using USN-Based Data Acquisition
Authors: Kim Sangyong , Shin Yoonseok , Kim Gwang-Hee
Published: July 2014

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the adoption of emerging ubiquitous sensor network (USN) technologies for instrumentation within a variety of sustainability systems. USN is emerging as a sensing paradigm that is being newly considered by the sustainability management field as an alternative to traditional tethered monitoring systems. Researchers have been discovering that USN is an exciting technology that should not be viewed simply as a substitute for traditional tethered monitoring systems. In this study, we investigate how a movement monitoring measurement system of a complex building is developed as a research environment for USN and related decision-supportive technologies. To address the apparent danger of building movement, agent-mediated communication concepts have been designed to autonomously manage large volumes of exchanged information. In this study, we additionally detail the design of the proposed system, including its principles, data processing algorithms, system architecture, and user interface specifics. Results of the test and case study demonstrate the effectiveness of the USN-based data acquisition system for real-time monitoring of movement operations.
Determining Critical Soil pH for Sunflower Production
Authors: Sutradhar Apurba , Lollato Romulo P. , Butchee Katy , Arnall Daryl B.
Published: July 2014

Soil acidity has become a major yield-limiting factor in cropping systems of the Southern Great Plains, in which winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) is the predominant crop. Sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.) is a strong rotational crop with winter wheat due to its draught and heat tolerance. However, the effects of low soil pH on sunflower productivity have not been explored. The objective of this study was to determine the critical soil pH and aluminum concentration (AlKCl) for sunflower. Sunflower was grown in a randomized complete block design with three replications of a pH gradient ranging from 4.0 to 7.0 at three locations with varying soil types. Soil pH was altered using aluminum sulfate (Al2(SO4)3) and hydrated lime (Ca(OH)2). Plant height, vigor, and survivability were all negatively affected by soil acidity. Sunflower yield was reduced by 10% at or below soil pH 4.7 to 5.3 dependent upon location and soil type. Levels ofAlKClabove 6.35 mg kg−1reduced seed yield by 10% or greater. We concluded that sunflower may serve as a better rotational crop with winter wheat under acidic conditions when compared to other adaptable crops.
Comparison Study of Vibration Control Effects between Suspended Tuned Mass Damper and Particle Damper
Authors: Lu Zheng , Wang Dianchao , Li Peizhen
Published: July 2014

The vibration control performance and its influencing factors of a tuned mass damper and a particle damper are examined by a single degree of freedom structure with such devices. The vibration control effects between these two dampers are also investigated. Increasing the mass ratio of the damper can improve the damping effects; under the condition of tuning frequency, the damping effects are remarkable. However, the more the deviation from the tuned frequency, the less controlling effects can be obtained. The damping effect of a particle damper is generally better than that of a tuned mass damper. For this test model, the particle damper can improve primary structure’s equivalent damping ratio 19 times to the original one’s, while the tuned mass damper can be 13 times. The reason lies in the fact that the particle damper can dissipate input energy by tuning mass, collision, impact, and friction between particles and the container and the momentum exchange effects between the secondary damper mass and the primary structure.
Cisplatin-Based Chemotherapy versus Cetuximab in Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Treatment
Authors: Hu Ming-Hung , Wang Ling-Wei , Lu Hsueh-Ju , Chu Pen-Yuan , Tai Shyh-Kuan , Lee Tsung-Lun , Chen Ming-Huang , Yang Muh-Hwa , Chang Peter Mu-Hsin
Published: July 2014

Background and Purpose. This study aimed to analyze survival, clinical responses, compliance, and adverse effects in locally advanced head and neck cancer (LAHNC) patients treated with split-dose cisplatin-based concurrent chemoradiation therapy (SD-CCRT) or cetuximab with concurrent radiation therapy (BioRT).Materials and Methods. We retrospectively evaluated 170 LAHNC patients diagnosed between January 1, 2009, and July 31, 2012: 116 received CCRT and 54 received BioRT.Results. Complete response rates were similar in the SD-CCRT and BioRT groups (63.8% versus 59.3%;P=0.807), and locoregional relapse rates were 18.1% and 13.0%, respectively (P=0.400). The 3-year relapse-free survival rate was 65.8% in the SD-CCRT group and 65.5% in the BioRT group, respectively (P=0.647). The 3-year overall survival rate was 78.5% in the SD-CCRT group and 70.9% in the BioRT group, respectively (P=0.879). Hematologic side effects were significantly more frequent in the SD-CCRT than in the BioRT group. Mucositis frequency was similar.Conclusions. Primary SD-CCRT and BioRT both showed good clinical response and survival. Hematologic toxicities were more frequent, but tolerable, in the SD-CCRT group. Both groups showed good compliance.
Integrated Model of Multiple Kernel Learning and Differential Evolution for EUR/USD Trading
Authors: Deng Shangkun , Sakurai Akito
Published: July 2014

Currency trading is an important area for individual investors, government policy decisions, and organization investments. In this study, we propose a hybrid approach referred to as MKL-DE, which combines multiple kernel learning (MKL) with differential evolution (DE) for trading a currency pair. MKL is used to learn a model that predicts changes in the target currency pair, whereas DE is used to generate the buy and sell signals for the target currency pair based on the relative strength index (RSI), while it is also combined with MKL as a trading signal. The new hybrid implementation is applied to EUR/USD trading, which is the most traded foreign exchange (FX) currency pair. MKL is essential for utilizing information from multiple information sources and DE is essential for formulating a trading rule based on a mixture of discrete structures and continuous parameters. Initially, the prediction model optimized by MKL predicts the returns based on a technical indicator called the moving average convergence and divergence. Next, a combined trading signal is optimized by DE using the inputs from the prediction model and technical indicator RSI obtained from multiple timeframes. The experimental results showed that trading using the prediction learned by MKL yielded consistent profits.
Vitamin E in Sarcopenia: Current Evidences on Its Role in Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Khor Shy Cian , Abdul Karim Norwahidah , Wan Ngah Wan Zurinah , Mohd Yusof Yasmin Anum , Makpol Suzana
Published: July 2014

Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome that is characterized by gradual loss of muscle mass and strength with increasing age. Although the underlying mechanism is still unknown, the contribution of increased oxidative stress in advanced age has been recognized as one of the risk factors of sarcopenia. Thus, eliminating reactive oxygen species (ROS) can be a strategy to combat sarcopenia. In this review, we discuss the potential role of vitamin E in the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia. Vitamin E is a lipid soluble vitamin, with potent antioxidant properties and current evidence suggesting a role in the modulation of signaling pathways. Previous studies have shown its possible beneficial effects on aging and age-related diseases. Although there are evidences suggesting an association between vitamin E and muscle health, they are still inconclusive compared to other more extensively studied chronic diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, we reviewed the role of vitamin E and its potential protective mechanisms on muscle health based on previous and currentin vitroandin vivostudies.
De Qi, a Threshold of the Stimulus Intensity, Elicits the Specific Response of Acupoints and Intrinsic Change of Human Brain to Acupuncture
Authors: Tian Dai-Shi , Xiong Jin , Pan Qing , Liu Fang , Wang Lu , Xu Sha-Bei , Huang Guang-Ying , Wang Wei
Published: July 2014

Objectives.  De qi is the subjective constellation of sensations perceived by the acupuncturists and patients as described in several literatures, but the absence of quantitative evaluation methods in de qi restricts the use of acupuncture treatment widely in the world. In the present study, we tried to investigate the intrinsic property of de qi is and how evaluate it quantitatively. Methods. 30 healthy adult volunteers were determined to investigate intrinsic changes in the human body after acupuncture with de qi. Results. Acupuncture treatment with de qi apparently increased acupoint blood flow, tissue displacement, and the amplitude of myoelectricity after de qi on acupoints. Furthermore, acupuncture treatment induced fMRI signal increase/decrease in different brain regions although no significant change in electroencephalography. Interpretation. The intrinsic change of the subjects representing the specific response of acupoints and human brain to acupuncture indicated that de qi might be evaluated quantitatively by those above aspects, which facilitated the confirmation in validity and propagation of this treatment modality widely in the world.
Effect of Damping and Yielding on the Seismic Response of 3D Steel Buildings with PMRF
Authors: Reyes-Salazar Alfredo , Haldar Achintya , Rodelo-López Ramon Eduardo , Bojórquez Eden
Published: July 2014

The effect of viscous damping and yielding, on the reduction of the seismic responses of steel buildings modeled as three-dimensional (3D) complex multidegree of freedom (MDOF) systems, is studied. The reduction produced by damping may be larger or smaller than that of yielding. This reduction can significantly vary from one structural idealization to another and is smaller for global than for local response parameters, which in turn depends on the particular local response parameter. The uncertainty in the estimation is significantly larger for local response parameter and decreases as damping increases. The results show the limitations of the commonly used static equivalent lateral force procedure where local and global response parameters are reduced in the same proportion. It is concluded that estimating the effect of damping and yielding on the seismic response of steel buildings by using simplified models may be a very crude approximation. Moreover, the effect of yielding should be explicitly calculated by using complex 3D MDOF models instead of estimating it in terms of equivalent viscous damping. The findings of this paper are for the particular models used in the study. Much more research is needed to reach more general conclusions.
Comparative Analyses of Physiological Responses ofCynodon dactylonAccessions from Southwest China to Sulfur Dioxide Toxicity
Authors: Li Xi , Wang Ling , Li Yiqiao , Sun Lingxia , Cai Shizhen , Huang Zhuo
Published: July 2014

Sulfur dioxide (SO2), a major air pollutant in developing countries, is highly toxic to plants. To achieve better air quality and landscape, planting appropriate grass species in severe SO2polluted areas is very critical.Cynodon dactylon, a widely used warm season turfgrass species, has good SO2-tolerant ability. In this study, we selected 9 out of 38C. dactylonaccessions from Southwest China as representatives of high, intermediate SO2-tolerant and SO2-sensitive accessions to comparatively analyze their physiological differences in leaves under SO2untreated and treated conditions. Our results revealed that SO2-tolerantC. dactylonaccessions showed higher soluble sugar, proline, and chlorophyll a contents under both SO2treated and untreated conditions; higher chlorophyll b and carotenoid under SO2treated condition; lower reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, oxidative damages, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities under SO2treated condition; and higher peroxidase (POD) activities under SO2untreated condition. Further results indicated that SO2-tolerantC. dactylonaccessions had higher sulfur contents under both SO2treated and untreated conditions, consistent with higher SO activities under both SO2treated and untreated conditions, and higher SiR activities under SO2treated condition. Taken together, our results indicated that SO2tolerance ofC. dactylonmight be largely related to soluble sugar, proline and chlorophyll a contents, and SO enzyme activity.
A Dynamical Reliability Prediction Algorithm for Composite Service
Authors: Xie Chunli , Ren Jianguo
Published: July 2014

Dynamic selection and dynamic binding and rebinding at runtime are new characters of composite services. The traditional static reliability prediction models are unsuitable to dynamic composite services. A new reliability predicting algorithm for composite services is proposed in this paper. Firstly, a composite service is decomposed into composition unites (executing path, composite module and atomic service) according to their constituents. Consequently, a hierarchical graph of all composite units is constructed. Lastly, a new dynamic reliability prediction algorithm is presented. Comparing with the traditional reliability model, the new dynamic reliability approach is more flexible, which does not recompute reliability for all composite units and only computes the reliability of the effected composite units. In addition, an example to show how to measure the reliability based on our algorithm is designed. The experimental results show our proposed methods can give an accurate estimation of reliability. Furthermore, a more flexible sensitivity analysis is performed to determine which service component has the most significant impact on the improvement of composite service reliability.