bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Permeability Prediction in Deep Coal Seam: A Case Study on the No. 3 Coal Seam of the Southern Qinshui Basin in China
Authors: Guo Pinkun , Cheng Yuanping
Published: December 2013

The coal permeability is an important parameter in mine methane control and coal bed methane (CBM) exploitation, which determines the practicability of methane extraction. Permeability prediction in deep coal seam plays a significant role in evaluating the practicability of CBM exploitation. The coal permeability depends on the coal fractures controlled by strata stress, gas pressure, and strata temperature which change with depth. The effect of the strata stress, gas pressure, and strata temperature on the coal (the coal matrix and fracture) under triaxial stress and strain conditions was studied. Then we got the change of coal porosity with strata stress, gas pressure, and strata temperature and established a coal permeability model under tri‐axial stress and strain conditions. The permeability of the No. 3 coal seam of the Southern Qinshui Basin in China was predicted, which is consistent with that tested in the field. The effect of the sorption swelling on porosity (permeability) firstly increases rapidly and then slowly with the increase of depth. However, the effect of thermal expansion and effective stress compression on porosity (permeability) increases linearly with the increase of depth. The most effective way to improve the permeability in exploiting CBM or extracting methane is to reduce the effective stress.
Association of Body Mass Index with Physical Function and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adults with Arthritis
Authors: Schoffman Danielle E. , Wilcox Sara , Baruth Meghan
Published: December 2013

Arthritis and obesity, both highly prevalent, contribute greatly to the burden of disability in US adults. We examined whether body mass index (BMI) was associated with physical function and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures among adults with arthritis and other rheumatic conditions. We assessed objectively measured BMI and physical functioning (six-minute walk, chair stand, seated reach, walking velocity, hand grip) and self-reported HRQOL (depression, stiffness, pain, fatigue, disability, quality of life-mental, and quality of life, physical) were assessed. Self-reported age, gender, race, physical activity, and arthritis medication use (covariates) were also assessed. Unadjusted and adjusted linear regression models examined the association between BMI and objective measures of functioning and self-reported measures of HRQOL. BMI was significantly associated with all functional (Ps≤0.007) and HRQOL measures (Ps≤0.03) in the unadjusted models. Associations between BMI and all functional measures (Ps≤0.001) and most HRQOL measures remained significant in the adjusted models (Ps≤0.05); depression and quality of life, physical, were not significant. The present analysis of a range of HRQOL and objective measures of physical function demonstrates the debilitating effects of the combination of overweight and arthritis and other rheumatic conditions. Future research should focus on developing effective group and self-management programs for weight loss for people with arthritis and other rheumatic conditions (registered on clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01172327).
Analysis of Precursors Prior to Rock Burst in Granite Tunnel Using Acoustic Emission and Far Infrared Monitoring
Authors: Liang Zhengzhao , Liu Xiangxin , Zhang Yanbo , Tang Chunan
Published: December 2013

To understand the physical mechanism of the anomalous behaviors observed prior to rock burst, the acoustic emission (AE) and far infrared (FIR) techniques were applied to monitor the progressive failure of a rock tunnel model subjected to biaxial stresses. Images of fracturing process, temperature changes of the tunnel, and spatiotemporal serials of acoustic emission were simultaneously recorded during deformation of the model. Theb-value derived from the amplitude distribution data of AE was calculated to predict the tunnel rock burst. The results showed that the vertical stress enhanced the stability of the tunnel, and the tunnels with higher confining pressure demonstrated a more abrupt and strong rock burst. Abnormal temperature changes around the wall were observed prior to the rock burst of the tunnel. Analysis of the AE events showed that a sudden drop and then a quiet period could be considered as the precursors to forecast the rock burst hazard. Statistical analysis indicated that rock fragment spalling occurred earlier than the abnormal temperature changes, and the abnormal temperature occurred earlier than the descent of the AEb-value. The analysis indicated that the temperature changes were more sensitive than the AEb-value changes to predict the tunnel rock bursts.
Recursive Formulation for Dynamic Modeling and Simulation of Multilink Spatial Flexible Robotic Manipulators
Authors: Qian Zhenjie , Zhang Dingguo , Liu Jun
Published: December 2013

The dynamics for spatial manipulator arms consisting of n flexible links and n flexible joints is presented. All the transversal, longitudinal, and torsional deformation of flexible links are considered. Within the total longitudinal deformation, the nonlinear coupling term, also known as the longitudinal shortening caused by transversal deformation, also is considered here. Each flexible joint is modeled as a linearly elastic torsional spring, and the mass of joint is considered. Lagrange's equations are adopted to derive the governing equations of motion of the system. The algorithmic procedure is based on recursive formulation using 4 × 4 homogenous transformation matrices where all the kinematical expressions as well as the final equations of motion are suited for computation. A corresponding general-purpose C++ software package for dynamic simulation is developed. Several examples are simulated to illustrate the performance of the algorithm.
Statistical Estimation of Changes in the Dominant Frequencies of Structures in Long Noisy Series of Monitoring Data
Authors: Moschas Fanis , Steirou Eva
Published: December 2013

Damage in structures is reflected in permanent changes of their natural frequencies and theoretically can be derived through measurements. Still, measurement-derived frequencies of structures usually reflect a superimposition of various effects, fluctuations due to environmental and loading conditions, noise, and possible permanent changes (damage or repair). The amplitude of the latter is usually of the same order of magnitude with the other effects; hence permanent shifts are masked by noise and cannot be identified, especially in long monitoring records. In order to overcome this problem, essential for the assessment of the structural health of various key structures, we adopt a statistical approach developed for the identification of shifts (inhomogeneities) in normally distributed climatological data, in particular the SNHT test. The efficiency of the SNHT was first tested on synthetic data and then on sets of estimates of dominant frequencies of a decaying pedestrian bridge. It was found that under certain conditions the SNHT can identify the location of shifts in dominant frequencies of structures; the amplitude of the shifts can then be easily computed. Since the efficiency of the test increases with the length of the time series, this test seems especially suitable for the analysis of long monitoring records.
Experiment and Application of Market-Based Control for Engineering Structures
Authors: Li Gang , Wang Wen , Li Hong-Nan
Published: December 2013

An experimental study on the vibration control of a single-degree-of-freedom model is carried out to verify market-based control (MBC) strategy effect. Results show that the MBC strategy can reduce both displacement and acceleration responses. Additionally, the MBC strategy is applied to a long-span bridge considering the travelling wave effect. Numerical simulations indicate that the displacement and acceleration responses of the long-span bridge with the travelling wave effect are smaller than those without, and the larger the velocity of travelling wave is, the better the control effect of MBC is. Based on the MBC theory and multimarket-based control (MMBC) presented here it is further applied to a large-space structure considering multiple dimensional features of structural model and ground motions. It is concluded that the MMBC strategy reduces the displacement response of the large-space structure, especially on vertical displacements, but has limited control effects on accelerations.
The Effects of Brazilian Green Propolis against Excessive Light-Induced Cell Damage in Retina and Fibroblast Cells
Authors: Murase Hiromi , Shimazawa Masamitsu , Kakino Mamoru , Ichihara Kenji , Tsuruma Kazuhiro , Hara Hideaki
Published: December 2013

Background. We investigated the effects of Brazilian green propolis and its constituents against white light- or UVA-induced cell damage in mouse retinal cone-cell line 661W or human skin-derived fibroblast cells (NB1-RGB).Methods. Cell damage was induced by 3,000lx white light for 24 h or 4/10 J/cm2UVA exposure. Cell viability was assessed by Hoechst33342 and propidium iodide staining or by tetrazolium salt (WST-8) cell viability assay. The radical scavenging activity of propolis induced by UVA irradiation in NB1-RGB cells was measured using a reactive-oxygen-species- (ROS-) sensitive probe CM-H2DCFDA. Moreover, the effects of propolis on the UVA-induced activation of p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) were examined by immunoblotting.Results. Treatment with propolis and two dicaffeoylquinic acids significantly inhibited the decrease in cell viability induced by white light in 661W. Propolis and its constituents inhibited the decrease in cell viability induced by UVA in NB1-RGB. Moreover, propolis suppressed the intracellular ROS production by UVA irradiation. Propolis also inhibited the levels of phosphorylated-p38 and ERK by UVA irradiation.Conclusion. Brazilian green propolis may become a major therapeutic candidate for the treatment of AMD and skin damage induced by UV irradiation.
Solving Second-Order Delay Differential Equations by Direct Adams-Moulton Method
Authors: Yann Seong Hoo , Abdul Majid Zanariah , Ismail Fudziah
Published: December 2013

This paper will consider the implementation of fifth-order direct method in the form of Adams-Moulton method for solving directly second-order delay differential equations (DDEs). The proposed direct method approximates the solutions using constant step size. The delay differential equations will be treated in their original forms without being reduced to systems of first-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Numerical results are presented to show that the proposed direct method is suitable for solving second-order delay differential equations.
Resonant Homoclinic Flips Bifurcation in Principal Eigendirections
Authors: Zhang Tiansi , Huang Xiaoxin , Zhu Deming
Published: December 2013

A codimension-4 homoclinic bifurcation with one orbit flip and one inclination flip at principal eigenvalue direction resonance is considered. By introducing a local active coordinate system in some small neighborhood of homoclinic orbit, we get the Poincaré return map and the bifurcation equation. A detailed investigation produces the number and the existence of 1-homoclinic orbit, 1-periodic orbit, and double 1-periodic orbits. We also locate their bifurcation surfaces in certain regions.
Artificial Neural Network Modeling for Biological Removal of Organic Carbon and Nitrogen from Slaughterhouse Wastewater in a Sequencing Batch Reactor
Authors: Kundu Pradyut , Debsarkar Anupam , Mukherjee Somnath
Published: December 2013

The present paper deals with treatment of slaughterhouse wastewater by conducting a laboratory scale sequencing batch reactor (SBR) with different input characterized samples, and the experimental results are explored for the formulation of feedforward backpropagation artificial neural network (ANN) to predict combined removal efficiency of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N). The reactor was operated under three different combinations of aerobic-anoxic sequence, namely, (4 + 4), (5 + 3), and (5 + 4) hour of total react period with influent COD and NH4+-N level of 2000 ± 100 mg/L and 120 ± 10 mg/L, respectively. ANN modeling was carried out using neural network tools, with Levenberg-Marquardt training algorithm. Various trials were examined for training of three types of ANN models
(Models “A,” “B,” and “C”) using number of neurons in the hidden layer varying from 2 to 30. All together 29, data sets were used for each three types of model for which 15 data sets were used for training, 7 data sets for validation, and 7 data sets for testing. The experimental results were used for testing and validation of three types of ANN models. Three ANN models (Models “A,” “B,” and “C”) were trained and tested reasonably well to predict COD and NH4+-N removal efficiently with 3.33% experimental error.
Common Fixed Point for Self-Mappings Satisfying an Implicit Lipschitz-Type Condition in Kaleva-Seikkala's Type Fuzzy Metric Spaces
Authors: Song Ming-Liang , Zhu Xiu-Juan
Published: December 2013

We first introduce the new real function classℱsatisfying an implicit Lipschitz-type condition. Then, by usingℱ-type real functions, some common fixed point theorems for a pair of self-mappings satisfying an implicit Lipschitz-type condition in fuzzy metric spaces (in the sense of Kaleva and Seikkala) are established. As applications, we obtain the corresponding common fixed point theorems in metric spaces. Also, some examples are given, which show that there exist mappings which satisfy the conditions in this paper but cannot satisfy the general contractive type conditions.
Effect of Cholesterol and Equex-STM Addition to an Egg Yolk Extender on Pure Spanish Stallion Cryopreserved Sperm
Authors: Gil Lidia , Galindo-Cardiel Iván , Malo C. , González N. , Álvarez C.
Published: December 2013

Cholesterol and Equex-STM are frequently added to different commercial and experimental extenders improving postthawing sperm quality. Doses of 125–150 mM of cholesterol from pig liver and 0.5–0.7% of Equex-STM were evaluated in a standard eggyolk extender (Martin et al., 1979). Six ejaculates per stallion from six pure Spanish stallions (6–8 years old) were collected in Martin's extender (B) and different mixtures of 125 mM-0.5% (I), 125 mM-0.7% (II), 150 mM-0.5% (III), and 150 mM-0.7% (IV) were added to original Martin's extender. Samples were frozen in 0.5 mL straws (100×106spermatozoa) and thawed (21 s.,37∘Cwater bath). After thawing the following parameters were evaluated: viability (V), motility (computer assisted sperm analysis, CASA; % nonprogressive NP; % progressive MP), hipoosmotic swelling test (HOST), acrosome integrity (A), fluorescence test (FL), and resistance test (RT). Sperm quality was significantly affected by stallion (in the parameters V, VI, NP, MP, HOST, A, FL, and RT), extraction (VI, NP, MP, HOST, A, and FL), and the different combinations of Equex-STM-cholesterol (FL). We concluded that 0.5% of Equex-STM mixed with 125 mM of cholesterol has obtained better sperm quality results than those of original Martin's extender, showing a simple and economic improvement of this home-made practical seminal extender.
Preparation and Characterization of HPMC/PVP Blend Films Plasticized with Sorbitol
Authors: Somashekarappa H. , Prakash Y. , Hemalatha K. , Demappa T. , Somashekar R.
Published: December 2013

The aim of this present work is to investigate the effect of plasticizers like Sorbitol on microstructural and mechanical properties of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) blend films. The pure blend and plasticized blend films were prepared by solution casting method and investigated using wide angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) method. WAXS analysis confirms that the plasticizers can enter into macromolecular blend structure and destroy the crystallinity of the films. FTIR spectra show that there are a shift and decrease in the intensity of the peaks confirming the interaction of plasticizer with the blend. Mechanical properties like tensile strength and Young’s Modulus decrease up to 0.6% of Sorbitol content in the films. Percentage of elongation at break increases suggesting that the plasticized films are more flexible than pure blend films. These films are suitable to be used as environmental friendly and biodegradable packaging films.
Quasiconvex Semidefinite Minimization Problem
Authors: Enkhbat R. , Bayartugs T.
Published: December 2013

We introduce so-called semidefinite quasiconvex minimization problem. We derive new global optimality conditions for the above problem. Based on the global optimality conditions, we construct an algorithm which generates a sequence of local minimizers which converge to a global solution.
Differential Regulation of Ferritin Subunits and Iron Transport Proteins: An Effect of Targeted Hepatic X-Irradiation
Authors: Naz Naila , Ahmad Shakil , Cameron Silke , Moriconi Federico , Rave-Fränk Margret , Christiansen Hans , Hess Clemens Friedrich , Ramadori Giuliano , Malik Ihtzaz A.
Published: December 2013

The current study aimed to investigate radiation-induced regulation of iron proteins including ferritin subunits in rats. Rat livers were selectively irradiatedin vivoat 25 Gy. This dose can be used to model radiation effects to the liver without inducing overt radiation-induced liver disease. Sham-irradiated rats served as controls. Isolated hepatocytes were irradiated at 8 Gy. Ferritin light polypeptide (FTL) was detectable in the serum of sham-irradiated rats with an increase after irradiation. Liver irradiation increased hepatic protein expression of both ferritin subunits. A rather early increase (3 h) was observed for hepatic TfR1 and Fpn-1 followed by a decrease at 12 h. The increase in TfR2 persisted over the observed time. Parallel to the elevation of AST levels, a significant increase (24 h) in hepatic iron content was measured. Complete blood count analysis showed a significant decrease in leukocyte number with an early increase in neutrophil granulocytes and a decrease in lymphocytes.In vitro, a significant increase in ferritin subunits at mRNA level was detected after irradiation which was further induced with a combination treatment of irradiation and acute phase cytokine. Irradiation can directly alter the expression of ferritin subunits and this response can be strongly influenced by radiation-induced proinflammatory cytokines. FTL can be used as a serum marker for early phase radiation-induced liver damage.
A Compact, Versatile Six-Port Radar Module for Industrial and Medical Applications
Authors: Linz Sarah , Vinci Gabor , Mann Sebastian , Lindner Stefan , Barbon Francesco , Weigel R. , Koelpin Alexander
Published: December 2013

The Six-port receiver has been intensively investigated in the last decade to be implemented as an alternative radar architecture. Plenty of current scientific publications demonstrate the effectiveness and versatility of the Six-port radar for special industrial, automotive, and medical applications, ranging from accurate contactless vibration analysis, through automotive radar calibration, to remote breath and heartbeat monitoring. Its highlights, such as excellent phase discrimination, trivial signal processing, low circuit complexity, and cost, have lately drawn the attention of companies working with radar technology. A joint project involving the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg and InnoSenT GmbH (Innovative Sensor Technology) led to the development of a highly accurate, compact, and versatile Six-port radar module aiming at a reliable high-integration of all subcomponents such as antenna, Six-port front-end, baseband circuitry, and digital signal processing in one single package. Innovative aspects in the RF front-end design as well as in the integration strategy are hereby presented, together with a system overview and measurement results.
Postulation of a Union X⊂ℙr, r≥4, of a Given Zero-Dimensional Scheme and Several General Lines
Authors: Ballico E.
Published: December 2013

We study the Hilbert function of the union X of a given zero-dimensional scheme Z⊂ℙr, r≥4, and t general lines of ℙr, proving, for example, that if t≫deg(Z), then X has maximal rank.
Cytotoxic Effects of Benzene Metabolites on Human Sperm Function: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Mandani Priyanka , Desai Ketki , Highland Hyacinth
Published: December 2013

In recent years, individuals are rampantly exposed to vapours of benzene, through paint, plastic, petroleum industries, fuel exhaust, and tobacco smoke. Hence the present investigation was directed towards determining the effect of benzene metabolites, namely, phenol-hydroquinone and catechol, on the motility, viability, and nuclear integrity of the human spermatozoa. From the results obtained it was clear that exposure to phenol-hydroquinone caused a significant decline in both, sperm motility and viability. Exposure to a phenol-hydroquinone (Phase I) microenvironment may therefore inhibit metabolically active enzymes, thus impeding ATP production, and in turn lowers sperm motility and viability. In addition, the present study also revealed that both metabolites of benzene caused significant denaturation of sperm nuclear DNA. Hence, exposure to phenol-hydroquinone in vitro could have resulted in generation of free radicals and altered membrane function, which is reflected by a decline in the motility, viability, and loss of sperm nuclear DNA integrity. In Phase II, the exposure of human sperm in vitro to varied concentrations of catechol caused only insignificant changes in sperm motility and viability as compared to those observed on exposure to phenol-hydroquinone. Hence, exposure to catechol appeared to have less toxic effects than those of phenol-hydroquinone.
The Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Metastatic Prostate Cancer to the Skeleton
Authors: Roberts Emma , Cossigny Davina A. F. , Quan Gerald M. Y.
Published: December 2013

Despite the clinical implication and high incidence of bone and spinal metastases, the molecular mechanisms behind prostate cancer metastasis to bone and spine are not well understood. In this review the molecular mechanisms that may contribute to the highly metastatic phenotype of prostate cancer are discussed. Proangiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have been shown to not only aid in the metastatic capabilities of prostate cancer but also encourage the colonization and growth of prostate tumour cells in the skeleton. The importance of VEGF in the complex process of prostate cancer dissemination to the skeleton is discussed, including its role in the development of the bone premetastatic niche, metastatic tumour cell recognition of bone, and bone remodeling. The expression of VEGF has also been shown to be upregulated in prostate cancer and is associated with clinical stage, Gleason score, tumour stage, progression, metastasis, and survival. Due to the multifaceted effect VEGF has on tumour angiogenesis, tumour cell proliferation, and bone destruction, therapies targeting the VEGF pathways have shown promising clinical application and are being investigated in clinical trials.
The Ageing Effect of Mechanical Joints on the Tyre/Joint Noises Monitored by a Control Vehicle Method without Traffic Disturbance
Authors: Wong C. K. , Lee Y. Y. , Wong J. C. K. , Lo T. Y. , Leung A. Y. T. , Wong K. W.
Published: December 2013

This paper studies the ageing effect of mechanical joints reflecting from the tyre/joint impacting noise by measuring the vehicle structure-borne noise change. Field data is collected applying two measurement methods suitable for newly installed and existing old expansion joints. The measurement methodology is improved by designing and applying a trailer for equipment installation. The main advantage of this method is not to disturb existing traffic by lane closure for measurement. Field measurements were conducted regularly for a study period up to 16 months after new joint replacement to monitor the variation of the structure-borne noise change inside a test vehicle while passing through mechanical joints. Empirical relationship is developed based on the field data of the roadside airborne noise change and the vehicle structure-borne noise change. The roadside tyre/joint noises could be converted using calibrated empirical formula. Key result findings include the following. ( 1 ) The vehicle structure-borne noise change is found smallest during the 3rd–6th months even lower than that measured when a new joint is installed. The structure-borne noise change then keeps increasing afterwards till the end of the study period. ( 2 ) Similar observations are found in all study cases incorporating various mechanical joint types and test vehicle types.
New Result of Analytic Functions Related to Hurwitz Zeta Function
Authors: Ghanim F. , Darus M.
Published: December 2013

By using a linear operator, we obtain some new results for a normalized analytic function f defined by means of the Hadamard product of Hurwitz zeta function. A class related to this function will be introduced and the properties will be discussed.
Effect of Intrinsic Point Defect on the Magnetic Properties of ZnO Nanowire
Authors: Yun Jiangni , Zhang Zhiyong , Yin Tieen
Published: December 2013

The effect of intrinsic point defect on the magnetic properties of ZnO nanowire is investigated by the first‐principles calculation based on the density functional theory (DFT). The calculated results reveal that the pure ZnO nanowire without intrinsic point defect is nonmagnetic and ZnO nanowire with VO, Zni, Oi, OZn, or ZnO point defect also is nonmagnetic. However, a strong spin splitting phenomenon is observed in ZnO nanowire with VZn defect sitting on the surface site. The Mulliken population analysis reveals that the oxygen atoms which are close to the VZn defect do major contribution to the magnetic moment. Partial density states calculation further suggests that the appearance of the half‐metallic ferromagnetism in ZnO nanorod with VZn originates from the hybridization of the O2p states with Zn 3d states.
Simplicity and Commutative Bases of Derivations in Polynomial and Power Series Rings
Authors: Baltazar Rene
Published: December 2013

The first part of the paper will describe a recent result of Retert in (2006) for kx1,…,xn and kx1,…,xn. This result states that if 𝔇 is a set of commute k-derivations of kx,y such that both ∂x∈𝔇 and the ring is 𝔇-simple, then there is d∈𝔇 such that kx,y is ∂x,d-simple. As for applications, we obtain relationships with known results of A. Nowicki on commutative bases of derivations.
Validation of the EBMT Risk Score for South Brazilian Patients Submitted to Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Pitombeira Beatriz Stela , Paz Alessandra , Pezzi Annelise , Amorin Bruna , Valim Vanessa , Laureano Alvaro , Wieck Andrea , Rigoni Lisandra , Ottoni Érica , Fisher Gustavo , Daudt Liane , Silla Lucia
Published: December 2013

Background. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is still associated with a high transplant-related mortality rate. In 2009, the EBMT risk score was validated as a simple tool to predict the outcome after allogeneic HSCT for acquired hematological disorders. Objectives. The aim of this study was to validate the applicability of the EBMT risk score for allogeneic HSCT on South Brazilian patients. Methods. A retrospective observational study was performed based on patients' records and data base at http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100003810 Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, including all allogeneic transplants for malignant and severe aplastic anemia from 1994 to 2010. Patients were categorized according to EBMT risk score and overall survival (OS). Nonrelapse mortality (NRM) and relapse rate (RR) were analyzed. Results. There were 278 evaluable patients. OS, NRM, and RR at five years median followup were 48.7%, 40.7%, and 30.7%, respectively. The OS was 81.8% for risk score 0 and 0% for score 6 (P<0.001), and NRM was 13.6% and 80% for risk scores 0 and 6, respectively (P=0.001). Conclusion. The EBMT risk score can be utilized as a tool for clinical decision making before allogeneic HSCT for malignant hematological diseases and severe aplastic anemia at a single center in Brazil.
The Maze of the Cerebrospinal Fluid Discovery
Authors: Herbowski Leszek
Published: December 2013

The author analyzes a historical, long, and tortuous way to discover the cerebrospinal fluid. At least 35 physicians and anatomists described in the text have laid the fundamentals of recognition of this biological fluid’s presence. On the basis of crucial anatomical, experimental, and clinical works there are four greatest physicians who should be considered as equal cerebrospinal fluid’s discoverers: Egyptian Imhotep, Venetian Nicolo Massa, Italian Domenico Felice Cotugno, and French François Magendie.
Angle Displacement Robust Controller for the Port Plate of the Hydraulic Transformer
Authors: Shen Wei , Jiang Jihai , Su Xiaoyu , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: December 2013

The hydraulic transformer is used in the hydraulic system to enhance the efficiency. However, how to control the angle displacement of the port plate is becoming a critical issue because of the new structure of the hydraulic transformer. This paper presents a new method for the angle displacement control system. Firstly, the basic principle of the system is presented. Then, the disturbance which is mainly the friction torque between the port plate and the cylinder block is calculated to estimate the range. Furthermore, the guaranteed cost control (GCC) is analyzed and combined with the disturbance and the characteristics of parameter uncertainties. Finally, the proposed control method is compared with the traditional PI control and the simulation result shows the effectiveness of the proposed design method.
Expression and Function of the Homeostatic Molecule Del-1 in Endothelial Cells and the Periodontal Tissue
Authors: Shin Jieun , Hosur Kavita B. , Pyaram Kalyani , Jotwani Ravi , Liang Shuang , Chavakis Triantafyllos , Hajishengallis George
Published: December 2013

Developmental endothelial locus-1 (Del-1) is an endothelial cell-secreted protein that limits the recruitment of neutrophils by antagonizing the interaction between the LFA-1 integrin on neutrophils and the intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 on endothelial cells. Mice with genetic or age-associated Del-1 deficiency exhibit increased neutrophil infiltration in the periodontium resulting in inflammatory bone loss. Here we investigated additional novel mechanisms whereby Del-1 could interfere with neutrophil recruitment and inflammation. Treatment of human endothelial cells with Del-1 did not affect the expression of endothelial molecules involved in the leukocyte adhesion cascade (ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin). Moreover, genetic or age-associated Del-1 deficiency did not significantly alter the expression of these adhesion molecules in the murine periodontium, further ruling out altered adhesion molecule expression as a mechanism whereby Del-1 regulates leukocyte recruitment. Strikingly, Del-1 inhibited ICAM-1-dependent chemokine release (CXCL2, CCL3) by neutrophils. Therefore, Del-1 could potentially suppress the amplification of inflammatory cell recruitment mediated through chemokine release by infiltrating neutrophils. Interestingly, Del-1 was itself regulated by inflammatory stimuli, which generally exerted opposite effects on adhesion molecule expression. The reciprocal regulation between Del-1 and inflammation may contribute to optimally balance the protective and the potentially harmful effects of inflammatory cell recruitment.
On Optimal Operator for Combining Left and Right Sole Pressure Data in Biometrics Security
Authors: Takeda Takahiro , Kuramoto Kei , Kobashi Syoji , Hata Yutaka
Published: December 2013

This paper describes optimal operator for combining left and right sole pressure data in a personal authentication method by dynamic change of sole pressure distribution while walking. The method employs a pair of right and left sole pressure distribution change data. These data are acquired by a mat-type load distribution sensor. The system extracts features based on shape of sole and weight shift from each sole pressure distribution. We calculate fuzzy degrees of right and left sole pressures for a registered person. Fuzzy if-then rules for each registered person are statistically determined by learning data set. Next, we combine the fuzzy degrees of right and left sole pressure data. In this process, we consider six combination operators. We examine which operator achieves best accuracy for the personal authentication. In the authentication system, we identify the walking persons as a registered person with the highest fuzzy degree. We verify the walking person as the target person when the combined fuzzy degree of the walking person is higher than a threshold. In our experiment, we employed 90 volunteers, and our method obtained higher authentication performance by mean and weighted sum operators.
High-Resolution Laser Scanning for Three-Dimensional Inspection of Drilling Tools
Authors: Marani Roberto , Nitti Massimiliano , Cicirelli Grazia , D'Orazio Tiziana , Stella Ettore
Published: December 2013

A high-resolution vision system for the inspection of drilling tools is presented. A triangulation-based laser scanner is used to extract a three-dimensional model of the target aimed to the fast detection and characterization of surface defects. The use of two orthogonal calibrated handlings allows the achievement of precisions of the order of few microns in the whole testing volume and the prevention of self-occlusions induced on the undercut surfaces of the tool. Point cloud registration is also derived analytically to increase to strength of the measurement scheme, whereas proper filters are used to delete samples whose quality is below a reference threshold. Experimental tests are performed on calibrated spheres and different-sized tools, proving the capability of the presented setup to entirely reconstruct complex targets with maximum absolute errors between the estimated distances and the corresponding nominal values below 12 μm.
An Extended Production and Inspection Model with Nonrigid Demand
Authors: Shih Neng-Hui , Wang Chih-Hsiung
Published: December 2013

This paper extends a previous production and inspection (PI) model in relation to market demand that is nonrigid to consider an imperfect process that has a general hazard rate instead of a constant failure rate. Products are produced by an imperfect process that may shift randomly from the IN state to the OUT state. When the process is in the OUT state, it has a higher probability of producing a nonconforming product than when it is in the IN state. To achieve the zero defects policy, all products before delivery to the market should be inspected and the inspection order follows their production sequence. Furthermore, the inspection information from all previous products is used to decide either that the next candidate product should be inspected or that the inspection procedure for the current production lot should be terminated. When the inspection procedure is terminated, the remaining unmet demand is regarded as a shortage. An algorithm is developed to determine an optimal PI policy that minimizes the expected total cost, which includes the cost of inspection, of shortage, and of production.
Sensorimotor Cortex Reorganization in Alzheimer's Disease and Metal Dysfunction: A MEG Study
Authors: Salustri C. , Tecchio F. , Zappasodi F. , Tomasevic L. , Ercolani M. , Moffa F. , Cassetta E. , Rossini P. M. , Squitti R.
Published: December 2013

Objective. To verify whether systemic biometals dysfunctions affect neurotransmission in living Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients.Methods. We performed a case-control study using magnetoencephalography to detect sensorimotor fields of AD patients, at rest and during median nerve stimulation. We analyzed position and amount of neurons synchronously activated by the stimulation in both hemispheres to investigate the capability of the primary somatosensory cortex to reorganize its circuitry disrupted by the disease. We also assessed systemic levels of copper, ceruloplasmin, non-Cp copper (i.e., copper not bound to ceruloplasmin), peroxides, transferrin, and total antioxidant capacity.Results. Patients’ sensorimotor generators appeared spatially shifted, despite no change of latency and strength, while spontaneous activity sources appeared unchanged. Neuronal reorganization was greater in moderately ill patients, while delta activity increased in severe patients. Non-Cp copper was the only biological variable appearing to be associated with patient sensorimotor transmission.Conclusions. Our data strengthen the notion that non-Cp copper, not copper in general, affects neuronal activity in AD.Significance. High plasticity in the disease early stages in regions controlling more commonly used body parts strengthens the notion that physical and cognitive activities are protective factors against progression of dementia.
Liver Transplantation without Perioperative Transfusions Single-Center Experience Showing Better Early Outcome and Shorter Hospital Stay
Authors: Goldaracena Nicolás , Méndez Patricio , Quiñonez Emilio , Devetach Gustavo , Koo Lucio , Jeanes Carlos , Anders Margarita , Orozco Federico , Comignani Pablo D. , Mastai Ricardo C. , McCormack Lucas
Published: December 2013

Background. Significant amounts of red blood cells (RBCs) transfusions are associated with poor outcome after liver transplantation (LT). We report our series of LT without perioperative RBC (P-RBC) transfusions to evaluate its influence on early and long-term outcomes following LT.Methods. A consecutive series of LT between 2006 and 2011 was analyzed. P-RBC transfusion was defined as one or more RBC units administrated during or ≤48 hours after LT. We divided the cohort in “No-Transfusion” and “Yes-Transfusion.” Preoperative status, graft quality, and intra- and postoperative variables were compared to assess P-RBC transfusion risk factors and postoperative outcome.Results. LT was performed in 127 patients (“No-Transfusion” = 39 versus “Yes-Transfusion” = 88). While median MELD was significantly higher in Yes-Transfusion (11 versus 21;P=0.0001) group, platelet count, prothrombin time, and hemoglobin were significantly lower. On multivariate analysis, the unique independent risk factor associated with P-RBC transfusions was preoperative hemoglobin (P<0.001). Incidence of postoperative bacterial infections (10 versus 27%;P=0.03), median ICU (2 versus 3 days;P=0.03), and hospital stay (7.5 versus 9 days;P=0.01) were negatively influenced by P-RBC transfusions. However, 30-day mortality (10 versus 15%) and one- (86 versus 70%) and 3-year (77 versus 66%) survival were equivalent in both groups.Conclusions. Recipient MELD score was not a predictive factor for P-RBC transfusion. Patients requiring P-RBC transfusions had worse postoperative outcome. Therefore, maximum efforts must be focused on improving hemoglobin levels during waiting list time to prevent using P-RBC in LT recipients.
Adherence and Persistence with Once-Daily Teriparatide in Japan: A Retrospective, Prescription Database, Cohort Study
Authors: Tanaka Ikuko , Sato Masayo , Sugihara Tomoko , Faries Douglas E. , Nojiri Shuko , Graham-Clarke Peita , Flynn Jennifer A. , Burge Russel T.
Published: December 2013

Adherence and persistence with osteoporosis treatments are essential for reducing fracture risk. Once-daily teriparatide is available in Japan for treating osteoporosis in patients with a high risk of fracture. The study objective was to describe real-world adherence and persistence with once-daily teriparatide 20 μg during the first year of treatment for patients who started treatment during the first eight months of availability in Japan. This prescription database study involved patients with an index date (first claim) between October 2010 and May 2011, a preindex period ≥6 months, and a postindex period ≥12 months and who were aged >45 years. Adherence (medication possession ratio (MPR)) and persistence (time from the start of treatment to discontinuation; a 60-day gap in supply) were calculated. A total of 287 patients started treatment during the specified time period; 123 (42.9%) were eligible for inclusion. Overall mean (standard deviation) adherence was 0.702 (0.366), with 61.0% of patients having high adherence (MPR > 0.8). The percentage of patients remaining on treatment was 65.9% at 180 days and 61.0% at 365 days. Our findings suggest that real-world adherence and persistence with once-daily teriparatide in Japan are similar to that with once-daily teriparatide in other countries and with other osteoporosis medications.
A Framework for the Land Use Change Dynamics Model Compatible with RCMs
Authors: Deng Xiangzheng , Liu Jiyuan , Lin Yingzhi , Shi Chenchen
Published: December 2013

A framework of land use change dynamics (LUCD) model compatible with regional climate models (RCMs) is introduced in this paper. The LUCD model can be subdivided into three modules, namely, economic module, vegetation change module, and agent-based module. The economic module is capable of estimating the demand of land use changes in economic activities maximizing economic utility. A computable general equilibrium (CGE) modeling framework is introduced and an approach to introduce land as a production factor into the economic module is proposed. The vegetation change module provides the probability of vegetation change driven by climate change. The agroecological zone (AEZ) model is supposed to be the optimal option for constructing the vegetation change module. The agent-based module identifies whether the land use change demand and vegetation change can be realized and provides the land use change simulation results which are the underlying surfaces needed by RCM. By importing the RCMs' simulation results of climate change and providing the simulation results of land use change for RCMs, the LUCD model would be compatible with RCMs. The coupled simulation system composed of LUCD and RCMs can be very effective in simulating the land surface processes and their changing patterns.
Evaluation of Diabetic Patients with Breast Cancer Treated with Metformin during Adjuvant Radiotherapy
Authors: Ferro Adam , Goyal Sharad , Kim Sinae , Wu Hao , Taunk Neil K. , Schiff Devora , Pirlamarla Aneesh , Haffty Bruce G.
Published: December 2013

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to evaluate acute locoregional toxicity in patients with breast cancer receiving concurrent metformin plus radiation therapy.Methods and Materials. Diabetic breast cancer patients receiving concurrent metformin and radiation therapy were matched with nondiabetic patients and diabetic patients using an alternative diabetes medication. Primary endpoints included the presence of a treatment break and development of dry or moist desquamation.Results. There was a statistically significant increase in treatment breaks for diabetic patients receiving concurrent metformin when compared to the nondiabetic patients (Pvalue = 0.02) and a trend toward significance when compared to diabetic patients receiving an alternate diabetes medication (Pvalue = 0.08). Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated concurrent metformin use as being associated with a trend toward the predictive value of determining the incidence of developing desquamation in diabetic patients receiving radiation therapy compared to diabetic patients receiving an alternate diabetes medication (Pvalue = 0.06).Conclusions. Diabetic patients treated with concurrent metformin and radiation therapy developed increased acute locoregional toxicity in comparison with diabetic patients receiving an alternate diabetes medication and nondiabetic patients. Further clinical investigation should be conducted to determine the therapeutic ratio of metformin in combination with radiation therapy.
Evaluation of the Add-On Effect of Chinese Patent Medicine for Patients with Stable or Unstable Angina: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mao Chen , Chung Vincent C. H. , Yuan Jin-Qiu , Yu Yuan-Yuan , Yang Zu-Yao , Wu Xin-Yin , Tang Jin-Ling
Published: December 2013

Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has been widely used as an adjunct to western medicine in treating angina in China. We carried out this systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of CHM on top of western medicine for angina. This meta-analysis included 46 randomized control trials with 4212 patients. For trials that included stable angina patients, the CHM group had significant lower incidence of total heart events (relative risk(RR)=0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33–0.78), myocardial infarction (RR=0.32, 95% CI 0.14–0.72), heart failure (RR=0.37, 95% CI 0.15–0.91), and angina (RR=0.46, 95% CI 0.30–0.71) than that of control group. For trials that included unstable angina patients, CHM led to significantly lower occurrence of total heart events (RR=0.46, 95% CI 0.32–0.66), myocardial infarction (RR=0.37, 95% CI 0.26–0.54), and angina (RR=0.36, 95%CI 0.26–0.51). Likewise, for trials that included stable or unstable angina patients, the rates of myocardial infarction (RR=0.34, 95% CI 0.17–0.68) and angina (RR=0.46, 95% CI 0.30–0.70) in CHM group were significantly lower than that in control group. In conclusion, CHM is very likely to be able to improve the survival of angina patients who are already receiving western medicine.
Nitroglycerine-Induced Nitrate Tolerance Compromises Propofol Protection of the Endothelial Cells against TNF-α: The Role of PKC-β2and NADPH Oxidase
Authors: Lei Shaoqing , Su Wating , Liu Huimin , Xu Jinjin , Xia Zhong-yuan , Yang Qing-jun , Qiao Xin , Du Yun , Zhang Liangqing , Xia Zhengyuan
Published: December 2013

Continuous treatment with organic nitrates causes nitrate tolerance and endothelial dysfunction, which is involved with protein kinase C (PKC) signal pathway and NADPH oxidase activation. We determined whether chronic administration with nitroglycerine compromises the protective effects of propofol against tumor necrosis factor (TNF-) induced toxicity in endothelial cells by PKC-β2dependent NADPH oxidase activation. Primary cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells were either treated or untreated with TNF-α(40 ng/mL) alone or in the presence of the specific PKC-β2inhibitor CGP53353 (1 μM)), nitroglycerine (10 μM), propofol (100 μM), propofol plus nitroglycerin, or CGP53353 plus nitroglycerine, respectively, for 24 hours. TNF-αincreased the levels of superoxide, Nox (nitrate and nitrite), malondialdehyde, and nitrotyrosine production, accompanied by increased protein expression of p-PKC-β2, gP91phox, and endothelial cell apoptosis, whereas all these changes were further enhanced by nitroglycerine. CGP53353 and propofol, respectively, reduced TNF-αinduced oxidative stress and cell toxicity. CGP53353 completely prevented TNF-αinduced oxidative stress and cell toxicity in the presence or absence of nitroglycerine, while the protective effects of propofol were neutralized by nitroglycerine. It is concluded that nitroglycerine comprises the protective effects of propofol against TNF-αstimulation in endothelial cells, primarily through PKC-β2dependent NADPH oxidase activation.