bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breast Cancer Detection with Reduced Feature Set
Authors: Mert Ahmet , Kılıç Niyazi , Bilgili Erdem , Akan Aydin
Published: May 2015

This paper explores feature reduction properties of independent component analysis (ICA) on breast cancer decision support system. Wisconsin diagnostic breast cancer (WDBC) dataset is reduced to one-dimensional feature vector computing an independent component (IC). The original data with 30 features and reduced one feature (IC) are used to evaluate diagnostic accuracy of the classifiers such ask-nearest neighbor (k-NN), artificial neural network (ANN), radial basis function neural network (RBFNN), and support vector machine (SVM). The comparison of the proposed classification using the IC with original feature set is also tested on different validation (5/10-fold cross-validations) and partitioning (20%–40%) methods. These classifiers are evaluated how to effectively categorize tumors as benign and malignant in terms of specificity, sensitivity, accuracy,F-score, Youden’s index, discriminant power, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve with its criterion values including area under curve (AUC) and 95% confidential interval (CI). This represents an improvement in diagnostic decision support system, while reducing computational complexity.
Analytical Methods for Temperature Field and Temperature Stress of Column Pier under Solar Radiation
Authors: Wang Yin-hui , Zou Yi-song , Li Cheng-jun , Xu Lue-qin , Wang Shi-chun
Published: May 2015

Based on the previous research work, a new idea is proposed for analyzing the impact of solar radiation on the substructure of bridges. Investigation is conducted in the thermodynamic phenomena and temperature stress of a dual-column pier. Research is led to the thermal conductivity of concrete structure and the values of the environmental parameters under solar radiation. An analytical code is written for the thermal analysis of the dual-column pier using the parametric modeling function of FE software, by means of which the temperature distribution of the bridge structure is computed under solar radiation. Using the thermal analytical results, the temperature stress of the dual-column pier is further calculated. The results tell that the temperature gradient distribution curve inside the concrete of the pier fits favorably the curve defined in the design specification and coincides quite well with real situation, which verifies the new idea proposed in this paper. Under the solar radiation which is a time-variable nonlinear temperature load to the bridge, the maximum principal stress is found at the corner of the pier with the sign of negative, which is believed to threaten the safety of the substructure of bridge and is necessary to arouse emphasis.
Robustness of Hierarchical Laminated Shell Element Based on Equivalent Single-Layer Theory
Authors: Ahn Jae S. , Yang Seung H. , Woo Kwang S.
Published: May 2015

This paper deals with the hierarchical laminated shell elements with nonsensitivity to adverse conditions for linear static analysis of cylindrical problems. Displacement approximation of the elements is established by high-order shape functions using the integrals of Legendre polynomials to ensureC0continuity at the interface between adjacent elements. For exact linear mapping of cylindrical shell problems, cylindrical coordinate is adopted. To find global response of laminated composite shells, equivalent single-layer theory is also considered. Thus, the proposed elements are formulated by the dimensional reduction from three-dimensional solid to two-dimensional plane which allows the first-order shear deformation and considers anisotropy due to fiber orientation. The sensitivity tests are implemented to show robustness of the present elements with respect to severe element distortions, very high aspect ratios of elements, and very large radius-to-thickness ratios of shells. In addition, this element has investigated whether material conditions such as isotropic and orthotropic properties may affect the accuracy as the element distortion ratio is increased. The robustness of present element has been compared with that of several shell elements available in ANSYS program.
Fatigue Analysis on Wheel considering Contact Effect Using FEM Method
Authors: Xiong Q. Y. , Yu S. T. , Ju J. S.
Published: May 2015

The FEM model of whole wheel system, including wheel, axle, and track, was created by using solid element in ABAQUS. Stress distribution characteristic under self-weight condition was achieved when contact effect is considered. Then, material failure criterion was introduced to analyze the fatigue life of wheel system, which is influenced by surface processing and thermolizing. Meanwhile, fatigue distribution characteristic of all parts in the wheel structure system was also analyzed. The results show that the track’s destructiveness is the most serious and has the shortest life, followed by the axle and the wheel. When the safety factor is set to be 2, the destructiveness of the three parts is all more serious and the fatigue life is all shorter. Hot rolling and shot blasting have an unfavorable influence on fatigue life of wheel system.
Dynamic Modeling and Nonlinear Position Control of a Quadruped Robot with Theo Jansen Linkage Mechanisms and a Single Actuator
Authors: Nansai Shunsuke , Mohan Rajesh Elara , Tan Ning , Rojas Nicolas , Iwase Masami
Published: May 2015

The Theo Jansen mechanism is gaining widespread popularity among the legged robotics community due to its scalable design, energy efficiency, low payload-to-machine-load ratio, bioinspired locomotion, and deterministic foot trajectory. In this paper, we perform for the first time the dynamic modeling and analysis on a four-legged robot driven by a single actuator and composed of Theo Jansen mechanisms. The projection method is applied to derive the equations of motion of this complex mechanical system and a position control strategy based on energy is proposed. Numerical simulations validate the efficacy of the designed controller, thus setting a theoretical basis for further investigations on Theo Jansen based quadruped robots.
An Improved Antenna Array Pattern Synthesis Method Using Fast Fourier Transforms
Authors: Wang Xucun , Zhou Yiguo , Wang Yanfei
Published: May 2015

An improved antenna array pattern synthesis method using fast Fourier transform is proposed, which can be effectively applied to the synthesis of large planar arrays with periodic structure. Theoretical and simulative analyses show that the original FFT method has a low convergence rate and the converged solution can hardly fully meet the requirements of the desired pattern. A scaling factor is introduced to the original method. By choosing a proper value for the scaling factor, the convergence rate can be greatly improved and the final solution is able to fully meet the expectations. Simulation results are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Novel Multiband Metal-Rimmed Antenna for Wearable Applications
Authors: Liu Bin , Han Jianghong , Hu Songhua , Zhang Li
Published: May 2015

A novel multiband antenna with an unbroken metal rim for wearable applications is presented. In order to achieve a wideband behavior, minimizing at the same time the size of the clearance area on the antenna ground plane, a novel feeding structure is proposed. This is achieved by connecting the metal rim to the ground plane thus allowing generating one lower-frequency resonance without occupying a large area. An additional resonance is then obtained using a suitable shorting patch. In this way, the proposed antenna presents a broadband behavior, while the width of the clearance area on the ground plane is of only 2 mm. The antenna performances in free-space and on a human phantom simulating a human body are analyzed by means of numerical simulations. Finally, the specific absorption rate (SAR) is analyzed to establish the antenna reliability in wearable applications. The experimental results demonstrate superior and stable performances of the metal-rimmed antenna when it is employed in wearable applications.
Four-Node Generalized Conforming Membrane Elements with Drilling DOFs Using Quadrilateral Area Coordinate Methods
Authors: Chen Xiao-Ming , Cen Song , Sun Jian-Yun , Li Yun-Gui
Published: May 2015

Two 4-node generalized conforming quadrilateral membrane elements with drilling DOF, named QAC4θand QAC4θM, were successfully developed. Two kinds of quadrilateral area coordinates are used together in the assumed displacement fields of the new elements, so that the related formulations are quite straightforward and will keep the order of the Cartesian coordinates unchangeable while the mesh is distorted. The drilling DOF is defined as the additional rigid rotation at the element nodes to avoid improper constraint. Both elements can pass the strict patch test and exhibit better performance than other similar models. In particular, they are both free of trapezoidal locking in MacNeal’s beam test and insensitive to various mesh distortions.
Non-VKA Oral Anticoagulants: Accurate Measurement of Plasma Drug Concentrations
Authors: Douxfils Jonathan , Mani Helen , Minet Valentine , Devalet Bérangère , Chatelain Bernard , Dogné Jean-Michel , Mullier François
Published: May 2015

Non-VKA oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have now widely reached the lucrative market of anticoagulation. While the marketing authorization holders claimed that no routine monitoring is required and that these compounds can be given at fixed doses, several evidences arisen from the literature tend to demonstrate the opposite. New data suggests that an assessment of the response at the individual level could improve the benefit-risk ratio of at least dabigatran. Information regarding the association of rivaroxaban and apixaban exposure and the bleeding risk is available in the drug approval package on the FDA website. These reviews suggest that accumulation of these compounds increases the risk of experiencing a bleeding complication. Therefore, in certain patient populations such as patients with acute or chronic renal impairment or with multiple drug interactions, measurement of drug exposure may be useful to ensure an optimal treatment response. More specific circumstances such as patients experiencing a haemorrhagic or thromboembolic event during the treatment duration, patients who require urgent surgery or an invasive procedure, or patient with a suspected overdose could benefit from such a measurement. This paper aims at providing guidance on how to best estimate the intensity of anticoagulation using laboratory assays in daily practice.
DNA Barcode-Based PCR-RFLP and Diagnostic PCR for Authentication of Jinqian Baihua She (Bungarus Parvus)
Authors: Li Xiaolei , Zeng Weiping , Liao Jing , Liang Zhenbiao , Huang Shuhua , Chao Zhi
Published: May 2015

We established polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and diagnostic PCR based on cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI) barcodes ofBungarus multicinctus, genuine Jinqian Baihua She (JBS), and adulterant snake species. The PCR-RFLP system utilizes the specific restriction sites ofSpeI andBstEII in the COI sequence ofB. multicinctusto allow its cleavage into 3 fragments (120 bp, 230 bp, and 340 bp); the COI sequences of the adulterants do not contain these restriction sites and therefore remained intact after digestion withSpeI andBstEII (except for that ofZaocys dhumnades, which could be cleaved into a 120 bp and a 570 bp fragment). For diagnostic PCR, a pair of species-specific primers (COI37 and COI337) was designed to amplify a specific 300 bp amplicon from the genomic DNA ofB. multicinctus; no such amplicons were found in other allied species. We tested the two methods using 11 commercial JBS samples, and the results demonstrated that barcode-based PCR-RFLP and diagnostic PCR both allowed effective and accurate authentication of JBS.
The Role and Potential Therapeutic Application of Myeloid‐Derived Suppressor Cells in Allo‐ and Autoimmunity
Authors: Zhang Qi , Fujino Masayuki , Xu Jinhua , Li Xiao-kang
Published: May 2015

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous population of cells that consists of myeloid progenitor cells and immature myeloid cells. They have been identified as a cell population that may affect the activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cells to regulate the immune response negatively, which makes them attractive targets for the treatment of transplantation and autoimmune diseases. Several studies have suggested the potential suppressive effect of MDSCs on allo‐ and autoimmune responses. Conversely, MDSCs have also been found at various stages of differentiation, accumulating during pathological situations, not only during tumor development but also in a variety of inflammatory immune responses, bone marrow transplantation, and some autoimmune diseases. These findings appear to be contradictory. In this review, we summarize the roles of MDSCs in different transplantation and autoimmune diseases models as well as the potential to target these cells for therapeutic benefit.
Culture Medium Geometry: The Dominant Factor Affecting In Vitro RF Exposure Dosimetry
Authors: Paffi Alessandra , Apollonio Francesca , Liberti Micaela , Sheppard Asher , Bit-Babik Giorgi , Balzano Quirino
Published: May 2015

Biological experiments that expose living cells or tissues to RF energy must have an aqueous medium to provide essential water, ions, nutrients, and growth factors. However, as we show here, the medium inherently functions as a receiving antenna that conveys RF energy to the biological entity in a manner entirely determined by exposure vessel geometry, orientation to the incident RF flux, frequency, and dielectric properties of the medium. We show for two common experimental arrangements that basic antenna theory can predict electromagnetic energy patterns that agree well with those otherwise obtained by computationally intensive methods that require specialized resources.
Characterization of a Thioredoxin-1 Gene fromTaenia soliumand Its Encoding Product
Authors: Jiménez Lucía , Rodríguez-Lima Oscar , Ochoa-Sánchez Alicia , Landa Abraham
Published: May 2015

Taenia soliumthioredoxin-1 gene (TsTrx-1) has a length of 771 bp with three exons and two introns. The core promoter gene presents two putative stress transcription factor binding sites, one putative TATA box, and a transcription start site (TSS). TsTrx-1 mRNA is expressed higher in larvae than in adult. This gene encodes a protein of 107 amino acids that presents the Trx active site (CGPC), the classical secondary structure of the thioredoxin fold, and the highest degree of identity with theEchinococcus granulosusTrx. A recombinant TsTrx-1 (rTsTrx-1) was produced inEscherichia coliwith redox activity. Optimal activity for rTsTrx-1 was at pH 6.5 in the range of 15 to 25°C. The enzyme conserved activity for 3 h and lost it in 24 h at 37°C. rTsTrx-1 lost 50% activity after 1 h and lost activity completely in 24 h at temperatures higher than 55°C. Best storage temperature for rTsTrx-1 was at −70°C. It was inhibited by high concentrations of H2O2and methylglyoxal (MG), but it was inhibited neither by NaCl nor by anti-rTsTrx-1 rabbit antibodies that strongly recognized a ~12 kDa band in extracts from several parasites. These TsTrx-1 properties open the opportunity to study its role in relationshipT. solium-hosts.
Developments of Mindlin-Reissner Plate Elements
Authors: Cen Song , Shang Yan
Published: May 2015

Since 1960s, how to develop high-performance plate bending finite elements based on different plate theories has attracted a great deal of attention from finite element researchers, and numerous models have been successfully constructed. Among these elements, the most popular models are usually formulated by two theoretical bases: the Kirchhoff plate theory and the Mindlin-Reissener plate theory. Due to the advantages that onlyC0continuity is required and the effect of transverse shear strain can be included, the latter one seems more rational and has obtained more attention. Through abundant works, different types of Mindlin-Reissener plate models emerged in many literatures and have been applied to solve various engineering problems. However, it also brings FEM users a puzzle of how to choose a “right” one. The main purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the development history of the Mindlin-Reissner plate elements, exhibiting the state-of-art in this research field. At the end of the paper, a promising method for developing “shape-free” plate elements is recommended.
A Straightforward Convergence Method for ICCG Simulation of Multiloop and Time-Stepping FE Model of Synchronous Generators with Simultaneous AC and Rectified DC Connections
Authors: Wang Shanming , Huang Ziguo , Mu Shujun , Wang Xiangheng
Published: May 2015

Now electric machines integrate with power electronics to form inseparable systems in lots of applications for high performance. For such systems, two kinds of nonlinearities, the magnetic nonlinearity of iron core and the circuit nonlinearity caused by power electronics devices, coexist at the same time, which makes simulation time-consuming. In this paper, the multiloop model combined with FE model of AC-DC synchronous generators, as one example of electric machine with power electronics system, is set up. FE method is applied for magnetic nonlinearity and variable-step variable-topology simulation method is applied for circuit nonlinearity. In order to improve the simulation speed, the incomplete Cholesky conjugate gradient (ICCG) method is used to solve the state equation. However, when power electronics device switches off, the convergence difficulty occurs. So a straightforward approach to achieve convergence of simulation is proposed. At last, the simulation results are compared with the experiments.
A Lyapunov-Type Inequality for a Fractional Differential Equation under a Robin Boundary Condition
Authors: Jleli Mohamed , Ragoub Lakhdar , Samet Bessem
Published: May 2015

We establish a new Lyapunov-type inequality for a class of fractional differential equations under Robin boundary conditions. The obtained inequality is used to obtain an interval where a linear combination of certain Mittag-Leffler functions has no real zeros.
Anti-Inflammatory and Cytostatic Activities of a Parthenolide-Like Sesquiterpene Lactone fromCota palaestinasubsp.syriaca
Authors: Talhouk Rabih S. , Nasr Bilal , Fares Mohamed-Bilal , Ajeeb Bushra , Nahhas Rana , Al Aaraj Lamis , Talhouk Salma N. , Ghaddar Tarek H. , Saliba Najat A.
Published: May 2015

A sesquiterpene lactone 1-β,10-Epoxy-6-hydroxy-1,10H-inunolide (K100) was isolated through “bioassay-guided fractionation” fromCota palaestinasubsp.syriaca, an Eastern Mediterranean endemic plant. K100 inhibited endotoxin- (ET-) induced proinflammatory markers: IL-6, MMP-9, and NO in normal mouse mammary SCp2 Cells. Molecular dockingin silicosuggested that K100, having highly analogous structure as parthenolide (PTL), an anticancer compound, could bind PTL target proteins at similar positions and with comparable binding affinities. Both compounds, K100 and PTL, inhibited the proliferation and prolonged the S-phase of the cell cycle of breast adenocarcinoma MDA-MB-231 cells grown in 2D cultures. Noncytotoxic concentrations of K100 and PTL decreased the proliferation rate of MDA-MB-231 and shifted their morphology from stellate to spherical colonies in 3D cultures. This was accompanied with a significant increase in the amount of small colonies and a decrease in the amount of large colonies. Moreover, K100 and PTL decreased cellular motility and invasiveness of MDA-MB-231 cells. In summary, these results suggest that K100 exhibits PTL-analogous anti-inflammatory, cytostatic, and antimetastatic effects.
Effect of In Vitro Testing Parameters on Ceftazidime-Avibactam Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations
Authors: Keepers Tiffany R. , Gomez Marcela , Biek Donald , Critchley Ian , Krause Kevin M.
Published: May 2015

Effects of varying in vitro susceptibility testing parameters of the broth microdilution assay on ceftazidime-avibactam MICs were determined and compared to meropenem and piperacillin-tazobactam for 9 Enterobacteriaceae and 4 Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates. The effect of varying incubation conditions (ambient air or 5% CO2), pH of medium, medium composition (cation-adjusted Mueller Hinton Broth with and without laked horse blood and Haemophilus Test Medium), cation content of the medium, and inoculum density were tested. Most variations had no effect on ceftazidime-avibactam MIC values (no more than a 2-fold change). However, acidic pH or high inoculum resulted in 4- to 16-fold changes in MIC, which was similar to those observed for meropenem and piperacillin-tazobactam under these conditions. Overall, this study shows that slight variations in testing parameters during routine MIC testing will likely have no significant effect on ceftazidime-avibactam MIC values.
Three-Dimensional Dynamic Topology Optimization with Frequency Constraints Using Composite Exponential Function and ICM Method
Authors: Ye Hongling , Chen Ning , Sui Yunkang , Tie Jun
Published: May 2015

The dynamic topology optimization of three-dimensional continuum structures subject to frequency constraints is investigated using Independent Continuous Mapping (ICM) design variable fields. The composite exponential function (CEF) is selected to be a filter function which recognizes the design variables and to implement the changing process of design variables from “discrete” to “continuous” and back to “discrete.” Explicit formulations of frequency constraints are given based on filter functions, first-order Taylor series expansion. And an improved optimal model is formulated using CEF and the explicit frequency constraints. Dual sequential quadratic programming (DSQP) algorithm is used to solve the optimal model. The program is developed on the platform of MSC Patran & Nastran. Finally, numerical examples are given to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the proposed method.
A Novel Method for the Synthesis ofTc99m-Ofloxacin Kits Using D-Penicillamine as Coligand and Their Application as Infection Imaging Agent
Authors: Abdul Qadir Muhammad , Shahzad Shabnam , Rasheed Rashid , Ahmed Mahmood , Anwar Shahzad , Kiran Shahzadi Syeda
Published: May 2015

The employment of radiopharmaceuticals is increasing nowadays for infection imaging and early execution of patients having infectious or inflammatory complaints. The main aim of this study was to discover a novel method for the labeling of ofloxacin withTc99m, optimization of labelling conditions to get higher percent yield, to assess kits radiochemical purity, in vitro stability, partition coefficient, protein binding, and intracellular accumulation inPseudomonas aeruginosa,Salmonella typhi, andEscherichia coliin infected rabbits. Maximum labeling efficiency was achieved when 1.5 mg ofloxacin was labeled with 10–20 mCi sodium pertechnetate in the presence of 3 mg D-penicillamine, 75 μg SnCl2. In vitro binding and biodistribution inPseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi,andEscherichia colishowed good results. This new complex is efficient for the imaging of infections caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Design of Compact Trapezoidal Bow-Tie Chipless RFID Tag
Authors: Xu Lei , Huang Kama
Published: May 2015

This paper presents a novel compact design of a low cost fully printable slot-loaded bowtie chipless RFID tag. The tag consists of two trapezoidal metallic patches loaded with multiple slot resonators. Slots with similar size or adjacent frequencies are loaded alternately on two bow-tie patches to double the number of data bits within the UWB frequency band without increasing the mutual coupling between slots. A coding capacity of 12 bits is obtained with 12 slots within a reasonable size of 35 mm×33 mm. RCS of the tag has been given by simulation. Measurements have been done using a bistatic radar configuration in the frequency domain and transmission coefficient is measured. The agreement between the simulation and measurement validates this new concept of design. This tag has high data capacity and low cost and can be directly printed on product such as personal ID, credit cards, paper, and textile because it needs only one conductive layer.
Size Controlled Synthesis of Germanium Nanocrystals: Effect of Ge Precursor and Hydride Reducing Agent
Authors: Carolan Darragh , Doyle Hugh
Published: May 2015

Germanium nanocrystals (Ge NCs) have attracted increasing attention as a promising alternative to II–VI and IV–VI semiconductor materials as they are cheap, “green,” electrochemically stable, and compatible with existing CMOS processing methods. Germanium is a particularly attractive material for optoelectronic applications as it combines a narrow band gap with high carrier mobilities and a large exciton Bohr radius. Solution‐phase synthesis and characterisation of size monodisperse alkyl‐terminated Ge NCs are demonstrated. Ge NCs were synthesised under inert atmospheric conditions via the reduction of Ge halide salts (GeX4) by hydride reducing agents within inverse micelles. Regulation of NC size is achieved by variation of germanium precursor and the strength of hydride reducing agents used. UV‐Visible absorbance and photoluminescence spectroscopy showed strong significant quantum confinement effects, with moderate absorption in the UV spectral range, and strong emission in the violet with a marked dependence on excitation wavelength.
A Direct Sulfation Process of a Marine Polysaccharide in Ionic Liquid
Authors: Chopin Nathalie , Sinquin Corinne , Ratiskol Jacqueline , Zykwinska Agata , Weiss Pierre , Cérantola Stéphane , Le Bideau Jean , Colliec-Jouault Sylvia
Published: May 2015

GY785 is an exopolysaccharide produced by a mesophilic bacterial strainAlteromonas infernusdiscovered in the deep-sea hydrothermal vents. GY785 highly sulfated derivative (GY785 DRS) was previously demonstrated to be a promising molecule driving the efficient mesenchymal stem cell chondrogenesis for cartilage repair. This glycosaminoglycan- (GAG-) like compound was modified in a classical solvent (N,N′-dimethylformamide). However, the use of classical solvents limits the polysaccharide solubility and causes the backbone degradation. In the present study, a one-step efficient sulfation process devoid of side effects (e.g., polysaccharide depolymerization and/or degradation) was developed to produce GAG-like derivatives. The sulfation of GY785 derivative (GY785 DR) was carried out using ionic liquid as a reaction medium. The successful sulfation of this anionic and highly branched heteropolysaccharide performed in ionic liquid would facilitate the production of new molecules of high specificity for biological targets such as tissue engineering or regenerative medicine.
The Electronic Structures and Optical Properties of Electron Tuned Fe‐Doped SnO2 Materials
Authors: Wang Zhe , Huang Bao-Jun , Zhang Chang-Wen , Xu Xi-Jin , Wang Pei-Ji
Published: May 2015

By means of the full‐potential linearized augmented plane‐wave method (FP‐LAPW), the electronic structures and optical properties of Sn15FeO32 with electron‐injection are studied. The results show that Fe‐doped SnO2 materials are all direct transition semiconductors. The Fermi level goes into conduction band gradually and the band gap decreases with the increase of electron injection. The peaks of optical properties, such as the imaginary part of dielectric function and absorption spectra, change greatly at low energy. The absorption spectra exhibit blue shift, and the optical absorption edge increases, which are consistent with the change of the band gaps.
New Analysis Theory and Method for Drag and Torque Based on Full-Hole System Dynamics in Highly Deviated Well
Authors: Zhu Xiao-hua , Li Bo , Liu Qing-you , Chang Xue-jun , Li Liang-chuan , Zhu Kuan-liang , Xu Xiao-feng
Published: May 2015

The research on calculation of torque and drag in highly deviated wells has demonstrated a significant gap against oil exploration and development; with the increasingly rigorous situation, the drill string dynamics and the contact or friction of drill pipe with borehole wall under the drill string action of dynamic need more attention and urgent research work. Based on full-hole system dynamics, three-dimensional nonlinear dynamic model and dynamic torque and drag model were established in highly deviated well by using the finite element method. An application of analyzing typical torque and drag problems presented here provides a means to more accurate description of the contact relation between drill string and wellbore. The results show that those models established in this paper have complete adaptability for a complex three-dimensional borehole trajectory. For the actual well application, it will help to evaluate security performance of drill string in complex working conditions.
Treatment ofβ-Thalassemia/Hemoglobin E with Antioxidant Cocktails Results in Decreased Oxidative Stress, Increased Hemoglobin Concentration, and Improvement of the Hypercoagulable State
Authors: Yanpanitch Orn-uma , Hatairaktham Suneerat , Charoensakdi Ratiya , Panichkul Narumol , Fucharoen Suthat , Srichairatanakool Somdet , Siritanaratkul Noppadol , Kalpravidh Ruchaneekorn W.
Published: May 2015

Studies on the antioxidant treatment for thalassemia have reported variable outcomes. However, treatment of thalassemia with a combination of hydrophobic and hydrophilic antioxidants and an iron chelator has not been studied. This study investigated the effects of antioxidant cocktails for the treatment ofβ-thalassemia/hemoglobin E (HbE), which is the most common form ofβ-thalassemia in Southeast Asia. Sixty patients were divided into two groups receiving N-acetylcysteine, deferiprone, and either curcuminoids (CUR) or vitamin E (Vit-E), and their hematological parameters, iron load, oxidative stress, and blood coagulation potential were evaluated. Patients were classified as responders if they showed the improvements of the markers of iron load and oxidative stress, otherwise as nonresponders. During treatment, the responders in both groups had significantly decreased iron load, oxidative stress, and coagulation potential and significantly increased antioxidant capacity and hemoglobin concentration. The significantly maximum increase(P<0.01)in hemoglobin concentration was 11% at month 4 in CUR group responders and 10% at month 10 in Vit-E group responders. In conclusion, the two antioxidant cocktails can improve anemia, iron overload, oxidative stress, and hypercoagulable state inβ-thalassemia/HbE.
Preparation, Optimization, and Screening of the Effect of Processing Variables on Agar Nanospheres Loaded with Bupropion HCl by a D-Optimal Design
Authors: Varshosaz Jaleh , Zaki Mohammad Reza , Minaiyan Mohsen , Banoozadeh Jaafar
Published: May 2015

Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant drug. Fluctuating in its serum levels following oral administration of immediate release dosage forms leads to occasional seizure. The aim of the present work was designing of sustained release bupropion HCl nanospheres suited for pulmonary delivery. Agar nanospheres were prepared by transferring the w/o emulsion to solid in oil (s/o) suspension. Calcium chloride was used as cross-linking agent and hydroxypropylβ-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) was used as permeability enhancer. A response surface D-optimal design was used for optimization of nanospheres. Independent factors included in the design were calcium chloride percent, speed of homogenization, agar percent, and HPβCD percent. Optimum condition was predicted to be achieved when the calcium chloride was set at 7.19%, homogenization speed at 8500 rpm, agar content at 2%, and HPβCD at 0.12%. The optimized nanoparticles showed particle size of 587 nm, zeta potential of −30.9 mV, drug loading efficiency of 38.6%, and release efficiency of 51% until 5 h. The nanospheres showed high degree of bioadhesiveness. D-optimal response surface method is a satisfactory design to optimize the fabrication of bupropion HCl loaded agar nanospheres and these nanospheres can be successively exploited to deliver bupropion in a controlled manner for a sufficiently extended period.
A Full-Duplex Relay Based Hybrid Transmission Mechanism for the MIMO-Capable Cooperative Intelligent Transport System
Authors: Oh Hayoung , Ahn Sanghyun
Published: May 2015

The goal of the cooperative intelligent transport system (C-ITS) is to provide a vehicular communication system that can enable quick, cost-effective means to distribute data in order to ensure safety, traffic efficiency, driver comfort, and so forth. The vehicular communication for C-ITS is composed of vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications. In V2I, signals from roadside units (RSUs) often have to propagate through large buildings in urban areas, which can cause signal loss due to shadowing effects. V2V can provide video streaming capabilities to enable enhanced C-ITS services, but communication among vehicles may suffer from network congestion. Therefore, we propose a hybrid transmission mechanism in this paper based on full-duplex relay vehicles for MIMO-capable C-ITS. We adopt the use of full-duplex relay vehicles to enhance the reliability of seamless video stream transmission in V2I. For congestion resolution in V2V communications, the MIMO transmission mode is adapted according to the traffic situation and an extra detour path is used to satisfy various QoS requirements of multipriority video data. Simulations are also carried out to show that our mechanism improves the network throughput of MIMO-capable C-ITS with video streaming capability.
Adhesion Pulmonary Nodules Detection Based on Dot-Filter and Extracting Centerline Algorithm
Authors: Liu Liwei , Wang Xin , Li Yang , Wang Liping , Dong Jianghui
Published: May 2015

A suspected pulmonary nodule detection method was proposed based on dot-filter and extracting centerline algorithm. In this paper, we focus on the distinguishing adhesion pulmonary nodules attached to vessels in two-dimensional (2D) lung computed tomography (CT) images. Firstly, the dot-filter based on Hessian matrix was constructed to enhance the circular area of the pulmonary CT images, which enhanced the circular suspected pulmonary nodule and suppresses the line-like areas. Secondly, to detect the nondistinguishable attached pulmonary nodules by the dot-filter, an algorithm based on extracting centerline was developed to enhance the circle area formed by the end or head of the vessels including the intersection of the lines. 20 sets of CT images were used in the experiments. In addition, 20 true/false nodules extracted were used to test the function of classifier. The experimental results show that the method based on dot-filter and extracting centerline algorithm can detect the attached pulmonary nodules accurately, which is a basis for further studies on the pulmonary nodule detection and diagnose.
Explicit Filtering Based Low-Dose Differential Phase Reconstruction Algorithm with the Grating Interferometry
Authors: Jiang Xiaolei , Zhang Li , Zhang Ran , Yin Hongxia , Wang Zhenchang
Published: May 2015

X-ray grating interferometry offers a novel framework for the study of weakly absorbing samples. Three kinds of information, that is, the attenuation, differential phase contrast (DPC), and dark-field images, can be obtained after a single scanning, providing additional and complementary information to the conventional attenuation image. Phase shifts of X-rays are measured by the DPC method; hence, DPC-CT reconstructs refraction indexes rather than attenuation coefficients. In this work, we propose an explicit filtering based low-dose differential phase reconstruction algorithm, which enables reconstruction from reduced scanning without artifacts. The algorithm adopts a differential algebraic reconstruction technique (DART) with the explicit filtering based sparse regularization rather than the commonly used total variation (TV) method. Both the numerical simulation and the biological sample experiment demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed algorithm.
Current Development of Silver Nanoparticle Preparation, Investigation, and Application in the Field of Medicine
Authors: Murphy Maxwell , Ting Kang , Zhang Xinli , Soo Chia , Zheng Zhong
Published: May 2015

The invited review covers different research areas of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), including the synthesis strategies of AgNPs, antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory properties of AgNPs, osteoconductive and osteoinductive activities of AgNP‐based materials, and potential toxicity of AgNPs. The potential mechanisms of AgNP’s biological efficacy as well as its potential toxicity are discussed as well. In addition, the current development of AgNP applications, especially in the area of therapeutics, is also summarized.
Beam Scanning Properties of a Ferrite Loaded Microstrip Patch Antenna
Authors: Sharif Iqbal Mitu Sheikh , Sultan Farooq
Published: May 2015

Axially magnetized ferrite loaded microstrip patch antenna (MPA) with tunable beam scanning properties is presented. Ferrite cylinders are optimally positioned within the near field region of the patch to introduceEyphase tapers needed for beam scanning. The interaction between the radiated EM wave and the gyrotropic properties of ferrites is controlled by varying the magnetizing fields. A beam scan of±30° is achieved for a DC biasing range of 0–0.19 T. Simulated antenna properties are verified using experimental results. Recent LTCC technology allows the biasing coils to be embedded within the ferrite material to considerably reduce the required external magnetizing field.
PID Based on Attractive Ellipsoid Method for Dynamic Uncertain and External Disturbances Rejection in Mechanical Systems
Authors: Ordaz Oliver Jesus Patricio , Espinoza Quesada Eduardo Steed , Garcia Barrientos Abel , Ramos Fernandez Julio Cesar
Published: May 2015

This paper presents a stability analysis for LNDS (Lagrangian nonlinear dynamical systems) with dynamic uncertain using a PID controller with external disturbances rejection based on attractive ellipsoid methods, since the PID-CT (proportional integral derivative computed torque) compensator has been used for the nonlinear trajectory tracking of an LNDS, when there are external perturbations and system uncertainties. The global system convergence of the trivial solution has not been proved. In this sense, we propose an approach to find the gains of the nonlinear PID-CT controller to guarantee the boundedness of the trivial solution by means of the concept of the UUB (uniform-ultimately bounded) stability. In order to show the effectiveness of the methodology proposed, we applied it in a real 2-DoF robot system.
Robust Tracking and Cruise Control of a Class of Robotic Systems
Authors: Cuesta Ricardo , Alvarez Joaquín , Miranda Manuel
Published: May 2015

This paper presents a controller for a class of robotic systems, based on a first-order sliding mode with a particular noninvariant, nonconnected surface. With this control it is possible to regulate the position such that the velocity remains, as long as possible, at a specified value until the system is close to the desired position. The properties inherited from the sliding modes make the control exhibit a high robustness to external perturbations and low sensitivity to system parameter variations. It is shown that the desired speed is reached in a finite time and the system converges exponentially to the desired position. This controller can be applied to systems described by a classical model of a fully actuated,n-DOF mechanical system, which could be decoupled via a preliminary decoupling control. To illustrate the theoretical results, the proposed control technique is applied to a Cartesian robot, simulated numerically. Moreover, to show the effectiveness of this strategy, some physical experiments on a rotational (mechanical) device were performed.
Protection against Amoebic Liver Abscess in Hamster by Intramuscular Immunization with anAutographa californicaBaculovirus Driving the Expression of the Gal-Lectin LC3 Fragment
Authors: Meneses-Ruiz Dulce María , Aguilar-Diaz Hugo , Bobes Raúl José , Sampieri Alicia , Vaca Luis , Laclette Juan Pedro , Carrero Julio César
Published: May 2015

In a previous study, we demonstrated that oral immunization usingAutographa californicabaculovirus driving the expression of the Gal-lectin LC3 fragment (AcNPV-LC3) ofEntamoeba histolyticaconferred protection against ALA development in hamsters. In this study, we determined the ability of AcNPV-LC3 to protect against ALA by the intramuscular route as well as the liver immune response associated with protection. Results showed that 55% of hamsters IM immunized with AcNPV-LC3 showed sterile protection against ALA, whereas other 20% showed reduction in the size and extent of abscesses, resulting in some protection in 75% of animals compared to the sham control group. Levels of protection showed a linear correlation with the development and intensity of specific antiamoeba cellular and humoral responses, evaluated in serum and spleen of hamsters, respectively. Evaluation of the Th1/Th2 cytokine patterns expressed in the liver of hamsters showed that sterile protection was associated with the production of high levels of IFNγand IL-4. These results suggest that the baculovirus system is equally efficient by the intramuscular as well as the oral routes for ALA protection and that the Gal-lectin LC3 fragment is a highly protective antigen against hepatic amoebiasis through the local induction of IFNγand IL-4.
Assessment of Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Treatment for Implant Osseointegration
Authors: Danna Natalie R. , Beutel Bryan G. , Tovar Nick , Witek Lukasz , Marin Charles , Bonfante Estevam A. , Granato Rodrigo , Suzuki Marcelo , Coelho Paulo G.
Published: May 2015

This study assessed the osseointegrative effects of atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) surface treatment for implants in a canine model. Control surfaces were untreated textured titanium (Ti) and calcium phosphate (CaP). Experimental surfaces were their 80-second air-based APP-treated counterparts. Physicochemical characterization was performed to assess topography, surface energy, and chemical composition. One implant from each control and experimental group (four in total) was placed in one radius of each of the seven male beagles for three weeks, and one implant from each group was placed in the contralateral radius for six weeks. After sacrifice, bone-to-implant contact (BIC) and bone area fraction occupancy (BAFO) were assessed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed decreased surface levels of carbon and increased Ti and oxygen, and calcium and oxygen, posttreatment for Ti and CaP surfaces, respectively. There was a significant(P<0.001)increase in BIC for APP-treated textured Ti surfaces at six weeks but not at three weeks or for CaP surfaces. There were no significant(P=0.57)differences for BAFO between treated and untreated surfaces for either material at either time point. This suggests that air-based APP surface treatment may improve osseointegration of textured Ti surfaces but not CaP surfaces. Studies optimizing APP parameters and applications are warranted.
Accurate Element of Compressive Bar considering the Effect of Displacement
Authors: Tang Lifeng , Xu Jing , Wang Hongzhi , Chen Xinghua
Published: May 2015

By constructing the compressive bar element and developing the stiffness matrix, most issues about the compressive bar can be solved. In this paper, based on second derivative to the equilibrium differential governing equations, the displacement shape functions are got. And then the finite element formula of compressive bar element is developed by using the potential energy principle and analytical shape function. Based on the total potential energy variation principle, the static and geometrical stiffness matrices are proposed, in which the large deformation of compressive bar is considered. To verify the accurate and validity of the analytical trial function element proposed in this paper, a number of the numerical examples are presented. Comparisons show that the proposed element has high calculation efficiency and rapid speed of convergence.
Infective Endocarditis Presented as a Right Atrium Mass in a Patient with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Moeinipour Ali Asghar , Hoseinikhah Hamid , Kiani Mohamad Ali , Tayyebi Meibodi Naser , Aelami Mohammad Hassan , Sepehri Shamloo Ali Reza , Amini Shahram
Published: May 2015

Involvement of the heart is infrequently seen in irritable bowel syndrome (IBD). We present a case of severe acute infective endocarditis diagnosed as ulcerative colitis in further workup.
Prognostics and Health Management: A Review on Data Driven Approaches
Authors: Tsui Kwok L. , Chen Nan , Zhou Qiang , Hai Yizhen , Wang Wenbin
Published: May 2015

Prognostics and health management (PHM) is a framework that offers comprehensive yet individualized solutions for managing system health. In recent years, PHM has emerged as an essential approach for achieving competitive advantages in the global market by improving reliability, maintainability, safety, and affordability. Concepts and components in PHM have been developed separately in many areas such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and statistical science, under varied names. In this paper, we provide a concise review of mainstream methods in major aspects of the PHM framework, including the updated research from both statistical science and engineering, with a focus on data-driven approaches. Real world examples have been provided to illustrate the implementation of PHM in practice.
Do Behavioral Risk Factors for Prediabetes and Insulin Resistance Differ across the Socioeconomic Gradient? Results from a Community-Based Epidemiologic Survey
Authors: Yang May H. , Hall Sue A. , Piccolo Rebecca S. , Maserejian Nancy N. , McKinlay John B.
Published: May 2015

To examine whether behavioral risk factors associated with diabetes (diet, BMI, waist circumference, physical activity, and sleep duration) are also related to both prediabetes and insulin resistance (IR), we used data from Boston Area Community Health (BACH) Survey (2010–2012,n=3155). Logistic and linear regression models were used to test the association of lifestyle factors with prediabetes status, insulin resistance, and prediabetes or insulin resistance. All regression models were stratified by education and income levels (to examine whether risk factors had differential effects across socioeconomic factors) and adjusted for age, gender, race/ethnicity, family history of diabetes, and smoking status. We found that large waist circumference was consistently associated with higher levels of insulin resistance (IR) and increased odds of prediabetes. While the association between large waist circumference and IR was consistent across all levels of SES(P<0.001), the association between large waist circumference and prediabetes was only statistically significant in the highest socioeconomic strata with odds ratios of 1.68 (95% CI 1.07–2.62) and 1.88 (95% CI 1.22–2.92) for postgraduate degree and income strata, respectively. There was no association between diet, physical activity, sleep duration, and the presence of multiple risk factors and prediabetes or IR within SES strata.