bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensibilidad de la biopsia gástrica en la detección de Helicobacter pylori en pacientes en tratamiento con inhibidores de la bomba de protones
Authors: Azaña Daisy , Egoavil Miguel , Soto Leslie , De los Rios Raul
Published: March 2016

Objetivo: Comparar la sensibilidad de la biopsia gástrica en la detección de Helicobacter pylori (Hp) en pacientes que recibieron inhibidores de la bomba de protones (IBP) entre 7 y 14 días previos a la endoscopía digestiva alta y los que recibieron medicación diferente a IBP o no usaron medicación. Material y métodos: Estudio tipo serie de casos comparativo. Se incluyeron pacientes con dispepsia sometidos a endoscopía digestiva alta y biopsia gástrica en el Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Nacional Cayetano Heredia entre noviembre 2008 y enero 2009, que habían recibido IBP entre 7 y 14 días. Se excluyeron pacientes con cáncer gástrico, cirugía previa, que se encontraban en terapia antibiótica o con salicilato de bismuto en las 4 semanas previas. Se tomaron dos biopsias en cuerpo y dos en antro. Se utilizó el programa STATA 10 para el análisis. Resultados: Se estudiaron 80 pacientes; 38 (47,5%) recibieron IBP. El 64,29% (27/42) de los que no tomaron IBP fueron Hp (+) y el 65,79% (23/38) de los que tomaron IBP (p=0,90). Conclusiones: La proporción de resultados positivos para Hp fue similar en los pacientes que tomaron IBP entre 7 y 14 días y los que no recibieron IBP
Características clínico patológicas del cáncer de cérvix uterino recurrente después de cirugía radical primaria
Authors: Aguilar Pedro , Valdivia Henry
Published: March 2016

Objetivo: Describir las características clínico patológicas del cáncer de cérvix uterino recurrente, sitio y tiempo  de recurrencia, y sobrevida después de la recurrencia de acuerdo a las variables de pronóstico en pacientes con cirugía radical primaria. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, observacional y retrospectivo, tipo serie de casos, realizado en el Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas de Lima Perú entre 1990 y 2005. Se incluyeron  todas las pacientes con cáncer de cérvix uterino estadios IB1 y IIA a quienes se les realizó cirugía radical primaria y  que tuvieron recurrencia. Las curvas de sobrevida fueron construidas con el método de Kaplan Meier. Resultados: Se realizaron 609 histerectomías radicales tipo III, 53(8,7%) tuvieron recurrencia. La edad promedio al diagnóstico  de la recurrencia fue 44,5 años, el tiempo medio desde la cirugía hasta la recurrencia 18,9 meses y el sitio de recurrencia más frecuente fue a distancia (41,5%) seguido por recurrencia central y pélvica. El sitio de recurrencia y los márgenes quirúrgicos tuvieron significancia estadística con respecto al tiempo de recurrencia. La terapia de salvataje más frecuente fue la radioterapia (45%). La sobrevida promedio después de la recurrencia fue 26,9 meses y la tasa de sobrevida a 5 años 9,4%. Conclusiones: El cáncer cervical recurrente es poco frecuente, afecta a mujeres jóvenes y el sitio de recurrencia más frecuente es metástasis a distancia. El tiempo de recurrencia es más corto  cuando la recurrencia es central y los márgenes quirúrgicos están afectados. La sobrevida después de la recurrencia  en cáncer cervical tratado con cirugía radical es baja.
Correlación del grosor de la íntima media carotidea con el perfil de lípidos y otros factores de riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes en hemodiálisis crónica.
Authors: Ramírez-Vela Rosa , Cieza-Zevallos Javier , Pinto-Valdivia Miguel , Medina-Palomino Félix
Published: March 2016

Los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica estadio 5 en terapia de sustitución renal tienen riesgo incrementado de eventos cardiovasculares, los cuales están asociados a diferentes factores, dentro de los cuales el grosor de la íntima media de la arteria carótida común (GIMCC) y de la carótida interna (GIMCI), es un predictor relevante. Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre el grosor de la íntima media de las arterias carótidas con el valor de los lípidos, el estado nutricional, el metabolismo óseo y otros factores de riesgo cardiovascular en una población nacional en hemodiálisis crónica. Material y métodos: Se estudiaron 50 pacientes adultos en hemodiálisis (HD) crónica del Centro de Hemodiálisis de la Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia; a quienes se les determinó lípidos, calcio (Ca), fósforo (P), paratohormona (PTH), proteínas totales, albúmina en sangre y se midió el grosor íntima media de las arterias carótidas común e interna. Se registró información demográfica, antropométrica, clínica, tiempo en HD y dosis de diálisis medida (Kt/V). Los datos se analizaron mediante correlación lineal simple y análisis de regresión lineal múltiple. Resultados: Se encontró correlación significativa entre GIMCC y PTH (r=-0,426, p=0,013), entre GIMCI y PTH (r=-0,349, p=0,046), GIMCC y colesterol total (r=0,410, p=0,018) y entre el GIMCI y colesterol total (r=0,506 p=0,003). En el análisis de regresión lineal múltiple el mejor modelo fue el relacionado con tabaquismo, edad y HDL colesterol (Coeficiente beta 1,216 ± 0,347 ES; p=0,002). Conclusión: Los resultados muestran que el factor más relevante relacionado al GIMCI es el tabaquismo y en menor importancia el colesterol HDL y la edad.
Validación y aplicabilidad de encuestas SERVQUAL modificadas para medir la satisfacción de usuarios externos en servicios de salud.
Authors: Cabello Emilio , Chirinos Jesús L.
Published: March 2016

Objetivo: Validar y evaluar la aplicabilidad de encuestas para medir la satisfacción de los usuarios en consulta externa (CE) y emergencia (E) de un hospital público. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal, basado en la encuesta SERVQUAL. Las variables del constructo luego de perfeccionamiento consecutivo, incorporaron las principales actividades del proceso de atención y requisitos de calidad de los usuarios externos. La validez de contenido fue analizada con 5 expertos, la validez de constructo por análisis factorial, la consistencia interna por el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach y su aplicabilidad en una muestra no probabilística de 383 usuarios de CE y 384 de E. Resultados: El análisis factorial mostró que el 88,9 % de la varianza de las variables en CE y 92,5% en E, explicaban los 5 componentes o dimensiones de la calidad. El coeficiente alfa de Cronbach fue 0,984 para CE y 0,988 para E. La satisfacción global de los usuarios en CE fue 46,8% y 52,9 % en E. Las variables con mayor insatisfacción en CE fueron: difícil acceso a citas, demora para la atención en farmacia, caja, módulo SIS y el trato inadecuado; en emergencia: deficiente mejora o resolución del problema de salud, deficiente disponibilidad de medicinas y demora para la atención en farmacia, caja y admisión. Conclusiones: Las encuestas de CE y E, han demostrado propiedades psicométricas para ser considerados como instrumentos válidos, confiables y aplicables, para medir el nivel de satisfacción de los usuarios externos, identificar las principales causas de insatisfacción e implementar proyectos de mejora.
Cáncer anaplásico de tiroides. Reporte de caso.
Authors: Pinto-Valdivia Miguel , Ortiz-Torres Milagros , Villena-Chávez Jaime , Chian-García César
Published: March 2016

Mujer de 40 años, sin antecedente de patología tiroidea, con historia de enfermedad de cuatro semanas caracterizado por baja de peso, aumento rápido del tamaño de la glándula tiroides y dolor óseo generalizado. El examen físico mostró bocio multinodular no doloroso con múltiples ganglios cervicales. Los análisis de laboratorio mostraron anemia y niveles elevados de transaminasas, fosfatasa alcalina y deshidrogenasa láctica. El perfil tiroideo fue normal y los anticuerpos antiperoxidasa tiroidea fueron negativos. La biopsia por aspiración mostró carcinoma de tiroides. Se realizó una tiroidectomía total con disección amplia de los ganglios del cuello y en el estudio de anatomía patológica resultó un carcinoma anaplásico de tiroides. La evolución de la paciente fue desfavorable, falleciendo por insuficiencia respiratoria, secundaria a embolismo pulmonar. El carcinoma anaplásico de tiroides es poco frecuente, pero tiene una alta mortalidad. Las metástasis a distancia están asociadas a mal pronóstico.
Aportes de la filogenética a la investigación médica.
Authors: Mendoza-Revilla Javier
Published: March 2016

A pesar de su reciente incorporación en la investigación médica, la biología evolutiva ha contribuido significativamente en el entendimiento del origen, desarrollo y mantenimiento de muchas enfermedades importantes para el ser humano. Investigaciones en enfermedades infecciosas, sobretodo en la resistencia contra antibióticos son claros ejemplos de esto. Así mismo, ha cambiando la forma en que vemos y entendemos a nuestro cuerpo, y su vulnerabilidad a ciertos tipos de enfermedades. Otras áreas como el cáncer, enfermedades mentales y envejecimiento han empezado a beneficiarse de la perspectiva evolutiva. Más específicamente, la filogenética como una disciplina de la biología evolutiva, ha mostrado ser una herramienta eficiente para descubrir los orígenes de enfermedades y determinar que cepas poseen mayor probabilidad de propagación. Debido a esto, este artículo tiene como objetivo brindar una idea básica de qué son y cómo interpretar los denominados árboles filogenéticos. Los médicos que puedan entender estos métodos, sin duda, podrán estar mejor preparados para comprender la creciente literatura médica que aborda este tipo de aproximación metodológica que se deriva de la biología evolutiva.
Relación del residuo post-miccional, grado de “trabeculación” vesical y el flujo urinario en pacientes con hiperplasia prostática benigna sintomática.
Authors: Condori Humberto , Medina Raúl , Loza Cesar
Published: March 2016

Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre el grado de “trabeculación” vesical, el residuo pos miccional y el grado deobstrucción al flujo de salida urinario en pacientes con hiperplasia benigna de próstata (HBP) sintomática. Materialy métodos: Serie de casos analítico y retrospectivo que incluyó 37 pacientes con HBP sintomática atendidosambulatoriamente en el servicio de Urología del Hospital Nacional Cayetano Heredia en el 2009. El grado de“trabeculación” vesical se determinó por cistoscopia, el residuo vesical post-miccional por ecografía y el grado deobstrucción mediante uroflujometría. Resultados: La edad de los pacientes fue: 68,2 ± 7,9 (50-83) años. Los valoresdel volumen prostático, porcentaje de residuo post-miccional y el flujo máximo fueron: 46,4 ± 20,6 cc (20-113);33,4% ± 20,7 (5- 80) y 6,7 ± 2,12 7 ml/seg (3-10), respectivamente. No se encontró correlación entre: el porcentaje de residuo post-miccional y el flujo urinario máximo (rs = -0,07; p=0,67) y entre el volumen prostático y el flujo máximo con (rs= 0,05; p= 0,7). Tampoco se encontró concordancia entre el grado de “trabeculación” vesical y elflujo máximo (Kappa= 0,0034; p=0,5) y entre el porcentaje de residuo post-miccional y el grado de “trabeculación”(Kappa= 0,18; p=0,06). Conclusión: No se encontró relación entre el flujo máximo urinario, el porcentaje de residuopost-miccional y el grado de “trabeculación”, en pacientes con HBP sintomática.
Producción científica peruana sobre trastornos mentales en SciELO-Perú, 2006-2011.
Authors: Taype-Rondán Álvaro , Lajo-Aurazo Yasmín , Huamaní Charles
Published: March 2016

Objetivo: Determinar las características de los trabajos de investigación sobre Trastornos Mentales (TM) publicados por autores peruanos en SciELO-Perú, durante el periodo 2006 - 2011. Material y métodos: Estudio bibliométrico. Se incluyeron artículos científicos sobre TM publicados en revistas indizadas en SciELO-Perú en el periodo 2006-2011. Se realizó una revisión de todos los artículos publicados en revistas de medicina y psicología. Se seleccionaron los artículos con al menos un autor peruano y que abordaran algún TM como objetivo principal, objetivo secundario, o como parte de un objetivo mayor. Las variables analizadas comprendieron: tipo de trastorno, filiación de los autores, citas del artículo y financiamiento recibido. Resultados: Se identificaron 686 artículos originales publicados por autores peruanos en seis revistas; de estos, 51 (7,4%) tuvieron como objetivo principal TM. Las áreas temáticas que se desarrollaron con más frecuencia fueron depresión, abuso de sustancias y trastornos del sueño. Las instituciones con mayor aporte fueron la Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia y la Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos. Además, siete estudios (13,7%) mencionaron haber recibido apoyo económico. Conclusiones: Se identificaron pocas publicaciones sobre TM en revistas peruanas.
Changing 8-9 Year-Old Pupil’s Mental Representations of Light: A Metaphor Based Teaching Approach
Authors: Rodriguez James , Castro David
Published: March 2016

This research paper examines the role that teaching mediation plays in the destabilization and reconstruction of representations of the concept of light among primary education students. It investigates their comprehension of light as an entity that is transferred autonomously of the light source and the receiver. This problem has been studied with two groups of 8-9 year-old children. The experimental group (E.G) participated in a teaching process that aimed to lead pupils to the construction of a model compatible to the scientific own; the control group (C.G) followed traditional teaching methods. In all experimental situations studied the difference between pre-test and post-tests was significant for the subjects of the experimental group both at the level of explaining the light as independent entity and at the level of the stability of cognitive acquisitions. 
Is TV Increasing Aggression in Secondary School Students: An Enquiry?
Authors: Kant Ravi
Published: March 2016

Entire generation is growing with media i.e. mobile and TV etc. Television is the powerful medium of communication with a tremendous potency to inform to entertain and to educate. Its expansion has been more dramatic than that to radio or the automobile. It has become an important part of our life, so much that it is difficult to say whether it is a luxury or necessity.” India is a developing country and its selections are different in culture, ideas the way of living and thinking too. Teenagers are the backbone of the country to form a place worthy citizen. They are too tender to motivate by any act or deed. Social activists, Educationists are debating whether Television is increasing aggression of students. By taking 200 sample of secondary school students with the help of one standardized and one self-made tool, an attempt has made to explore relationship between TV viewing and aggression. Survey method was used. Investigation find there slightly difference in TV viewing of male and female students. Male students found more aggressive in comparison of their counterpart i.e. females. Television viewing has a slight effect on aggression of students but statistically it found non-significant. 
Validation of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test in university students: AUDIT and AUDIT-C
Authors: García Carretero Miguel Ángel , Novalbos Ruiz José Pedro , Martínez Delgado José Manuel , O'Ferrall González Cristina
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study was to determine the psychometric properties of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT and AUDIT-C) in order to detect problems related to the consumption of alcohol in the university population. The sample consisted of 1309 students.A Weekly Alcohol Consumption Diary was used as a gold standard; Cronbach’s Alpha, the Kappa index, Spearman’s correlation coefficient and exploratory factor analysis were applied for diagnostic reliability and validity, with ROC curves used to establish the different cut-off points. Binge Drinking (BD) episodes were found in 3.9% of men and 4.0% of women with otherwise low-risk drinking patterns. AUDIT identified 20.1% as high-risk drinkers and 6.4% as drinkers with physical-psychological problems and probable alcohol dependence.Cronbach’s alpha of 0.75 demonstrates good internal consistency. The best cut-off points for high-risk drinking students were 8 for males and 6 for females. As for problem drinkers and probable ADS, 13 was the best cut-off point for both sexes. In relation to AUDIT-C, 5 and 4 were the best cut-off points for males and females with high-risk patterns, respectively. The criterion validity of AUDIT and AUDIT-C to detect binge drinking episodes was found to have a moderate K value. The results obtained show that AUDIT has good psychometric properties to detect early alcohol abuse disorders in university students; however, it is recommended that the cut-off point be reduced to 8 in men. AUDIT-C improves its predictive value by raising the cut-off point by one unit. Items 2 and 3 should be reviewed to increase its predictive value for BD.
Psychotic-like Experiences and Substance Use in College Students
Authors: Fonseca-Pedrero Eduardo , Ortuño-Sierra Javier , Paino Mercedes , Muñiz José
Published: March 2016

Psychotic disorders, as well as psychotic-like experiences and substance use, have been found to be associated. The main goal of the present study was to analyse the relationship between psychoticlike experiences and substance use in college students. The simple comprised a total of 660 participants (M = 20.3 years, SD = 2.6). The results showed that 96% of the sample reported some delusional experience, while 20.3% reported at least one positive psychotic-like experience. Some substance use was reported by 41.1% of the sample, differing in terms of gender. Substance users reported more psychoticlike experiences than non-users, especially in the positive dimension. Also, alcohol consumption predicted in most cases extreme scores on measures of delusional ideation and psychotic experiences. The association between these two variables showed a differentiated pattern, with a stronger relationship between substance use and cognitive-perceptual psychotic-like experiences. To some extent, these findings support the dimensional models of the psychosis phenotype and contribute a better understanding of the links between psychoticlike experiences and substance use in young adults. Future studies should further explore the role of different risk factors for psychotic disorders and include models of the gene-environment interaction. Keywords: Substance use; Addiction; Psychosis; Schizotypy; Cannabis; Psychotic-like experiences.
Clinical guideline for the treatment of dual pathology in the adult population
Authors: San Luis , Arranz Belén , Dual Pathology Clinical Practice Guide Expert Group for , Arrojo M. , Becoña E. , Bernardo M. , Caballero L. , Castells X. , Cunill R. , Florez G. , Franco M.D. , Garriga M. , Goikolea J.M. , González-Pinto A. , Landabaso M. , López A. , Martinez-Raga J. , Merino A. , Paramo M. , Rubio G. , Safont G. , Saiz P. A. , Solà I. , Tirado J. , Torrens M. , Zorrilla I.
Published: March 2016

Editorial of vol 28-1.
Video gamers of League of Legends: The role of passion in abusive use and in performance
Authors: Bertran Enric , Chamarro Andrés
Published: March 2016

There is growing concern about the addictive potential of Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games (MMORPG). The Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) is a new genre, poorly studied but very popular, in which performance holds priority over immersion. The aim of the current study was to explore the influence of passion both on abuse and performance, using the dualistic model of passion. A total of 369 participants completed an online questionnaire that included problematic use and the Passion Scale. From players’ nicknames, performance statistics were obtained. The results show that harmonious passion is a protector from negative consequences. On the other hand, obsessive passion predicts negative consequences and use of videogames for evasion. Obsessive passion also predicts better performance. These results suggest that distinguishing the two kinds of passion is important because they influence vulnerability to developing maladaptive behaviors and also players’ performance.
Substance abuse and crime: considerations for a comprehensive forensic assessment
Authors: Esbec Enrique , Echeburúa Enrique
Published: March 2016

There is a strong link between drug use and crime, but this relationship is complex. Drug use does not necessarily lead to an increase in crimes, such as theft, rape or assault, even among regular users or addicts. However, in cases of individuals who consume drugs excessively and commit crimes, both factors are linked. Poverty, personality disorders, social and cultural variables, relationships with other users and previous incarceration or drug use are all factors. These issues play an important role in understanding the risk of crime and drug use. Most addicts should be held liable for most criminal behaviour motivated by addiction, but that addiction can, in some cases, affect one’s capacity for self-control over one’s actions. This paper examines the current response of the Spanish Criminal Justice System to various aspects of drug abuse, focusing on court decisions related with the nature and enforcement of drug laws. It also addresses aspects of criminal responsibility for drug abuse and drug-related crimes and suggests legislation on drugs, sentencing alternatives for drug offenses, and drug treatment options. Expert evidence plays a crucial role in this area in the court.
Application of hybrid Kalman filter for improving water level forecast
Authors: Wang Xuan , Babovic Vladan
Published: March 2016

Numerical modeling is one of the popular means to simulate and forecast the state of oceanographic systems. However, it still suffers from some limitations, e.g., parameter uncertainties, simplification of model assumptions, and absence of data for proper boundary and initial conditions. This paper proposes a hybrid data assimilation scheme, which combines the Kalman filter (KF) with a data-driven model (local linear model (LM)), to directly correct numerical model outputs at locations without measurements. Two different types of KF (unscented Kalman filter and two-sample Kalman filter) are tested and compared. A local LM is utilized to describe the evolution of the model state and then assimilated into the KF. This in turns simplifies the application of KF for highly complex nonlinear systems such as the dynamic motion of Singapore regional water. The proposed scheme is first examined using a simple hypothetical bay experiment followed by an operational model of the Singapore Regional Model (SRM), in which both are set up in the Delft3D modeling environment. This combination of KF and data-driven model provides insights into the influence of different error covariance estimations on the model updating accuracy. This research also provides guidance to offline utilization of KF in updating of numerical model output.
Optimization of lamp arrangement in a closed-conduit UV reactor based on a genetic algorithm
Authors: Sultan Tipu , Ahmad Zeshan , Cho Jinsoo
Published: March 2016

The choice for the arrangement of the UV lamps in a closed-conduit ultraviolet (CCUV) reactor significantly affects the performance. However, a systematic methodology for the optimal lamp arrangement within the chamber of the CCUV reactor is not well established in the literature. In this research work, we propose a viable systematic methodology for the lamp arrangement based on a genetic algorithm (GA). In addition, we analyze the impacts of the diameter, angle, and symmetry of the lamp arrangement on the reduction equivalent dose (RED). The results are compared based on the simulated RED values and evaluated using the computational fluid dynamics simulations software ANSYS FLUENT. The fluence rate was calculated using commercial software UVCalc3D, and the GA-based lamp arrangement optimization was achieved using MATLAB. The simulation results provide detailed information about the GA-based methodology for the lamp arrangement, the pathogen transport, and the simulated RED values. A significant increase in the RED values was achieved by using the GA-based lamp arrangement methodology. This increase in RED value was highest for the asymmetric lamp arrangement within the chamber of the CCUV reactor. These results demonstrate that the proposed GA-based methodology for symmetric and asymmetric lamp arrangement provides a viable technical solution to the design and optimization of the CCUV reactor.
The Effect of Corporate Tax Avoidance on the Cost of Equity
Authors: Goh Beng Wee , Lee Jimmy , Lim Chee Yeow , Shevlin Terry
Published: March 2016

Based on Lambert, Leuz, and Verrecchia's (2007) derivation of the cost of equity capital in terms of expected cash flows, we generate a testable hypothesis that relates tax avoidance to a firm's cost of equity capital. Using three broad measures of tax avoidance—book-tax differences, permanent book-tax differences, and long-run cash effective tax rates—to test our hypothesis, we find that the cost of equity is lower for tax-avoiding firms. This effect is stronger for firms with better outside monitoring, firms that likely realize higher marginal benefits from tax savings, and firms with higher information quality. Overall, our results suggest that equity investors generally require a lower expected rate of return due to the positive cash flow effects of corporate tax avoidance.

JEL Classifications: G32; H26; M41.
The Effects of Regulatory Scrutiny on Tax Avoidance: An Examination of SEC Comment Letters
Authors: Kubick Thomas R. , Lynch Daniel P. , Mayberry Michael A. , Omer Thomas C.
Published: March 2016

This study examines the tax avoidance behavior of firms prior to the issuance, and following the resolution, of SEC tax comment letters. We find that firms that appear to engage in greater tax avoidance are more likely to receive a tax-related SEC comment letter. We also find that firms receiving a tax-related SEC comment letter, relative to firms receiving a non-tax comment letter, subsequently decrease their tax avoidance behavior consistent with an increase in expected tax costs. Additionally, we document evidence consistent with other firms that do not receive a comment letter reacting to multiple publicly disclosed tax-related comment letters within their industry by increasing their reported GAAP ETR, consistent with an indirect effect of regulatory scrutiny on certain types of tax avoidance.
Alibaba Group Initial Public Offering: A Case Study of Financial Reporting Issues
Authors: Burke Qing L. , Eaton Tim V.
Published: March 2016

In September 2014, the Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding Limited issued shares on the New York Stock Exchange, making it the world's largest initial public offering. This case examines different aspects of the Alibaba Group's initial public offering, including Alibaba Group's business model, financial reporting and corporate governance, as well as the macroeconomic, political, and legal environment in which the company operates. In addition, this case will familiarize students with the risks and opportunities for Chinese companies and investors when a Chinese company lists in the U.S. This case is suitable for financial accounting and international accounting courses at the intermediate and advanced levels for undergraduates as well as graduate students. The case is scalable, and instructors can choose from multiple sections of the case and different case questions to tailor the case difficulty to their students' learning needs.
A Synergistic Antiobesity Effect by a Combination of Capsinoids and Cold Temperature Through Promoting Beige Adipocyte Biogenesis
Authors: Ohyama Kana , Nogusa Yoshihito , Shinoda Kosaku , Suzuki Katsuya , Bannai Makoto , Kajimura Shingo
Published: March 2016

Beige adipocytes emerge postnatally within the white adipose tissue in response to certain environmental cues, such as chronic cold exposure. Because of its highly recruitable nature and relevance to adult humans, beige adipocytes have gained much attention as an attractive cellular target for antiobesity therapy. However, molecular circuits that preferentially promote beige adipocyte biogenesis remain poorly understood. We report that a combination of mild cold exposure at 17°C and capsinoids, a nonpungent analog of capsaicin, synergistically and preferentially promotes beige adipocyte biogenesis and ameliorates diet-induced obesity. Gain- and loss-of-function studies show that the combination of capsinoids and cold exposure synergistically promotes beige adipocyte development through the β2-adrenoceptor signaling pathway. This synergistic effect on beige adipocyte biogenesis occurs through an increased half-life of PRDM16, a dominant transcriptional regulator of brown/beige adipocyte development. We document a previously unappreciated molecular circuit that controls beige adipocyte biogenesis and suggest a plausible approach to increase whole-body energy expenditure by combining dietary components and environmental cues.
A multi-model approach to Saint-Venant equations: A stability study by LMIs
Authors: Dos Santos Martins Valérie , Rodrigues Mickael , Diagne Mamadou
Published: March 2016

This paper deals with the stability study of the nonlinear Saint-Venant Partial Differential Equation (PDE). The proposed approach is based on the multi-model concept which takes into account some Linear Time Invariant (LTI) models defined around a set of operating points. This method allows describing the dynamics of this nonlinear system in an infinite dimensional space over a wide operating range. A stability analysis of the nonlinear Saint-Venant PDE is proposed both by using Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs) and an Internal Model Boundary Control (IMBC) structure. The method is applied both in simulations and real experiments through a microchannel, illustrating thus the theoretical results developed in the paper.
Enclosures for the solution set of parametric interval linear systems
Authors: Hladík Milan
Published: March 2016

We investigate parametric interval linear systems of equations. The main result is a generalization of the Bauer–Skeel and the Hansen–Bliek–Rohn bounds for this case, comparing and refinement of both. We show that the latter bounds are not provable better, and that they are also sometimes too pessimistic. The presented form of both methods is suitable for combining them into one to get a more efficient algorithm. Some numerical experiments are carried out to illustrate performances of the methods.
Modelling and control of an omnidirectional mobile manipulator
Authors: Djebrani Salima , Benali Abderraouf , Abdessemed Foudil
Published: March 2016

A new approach to control an omnidirectional mobile manipulator is developed. The robot is considered to be an individual agent aimed at performing robotic tasks described in terms of a displacement and a force interaction with the environment. A reactive architecture and impedance control are used to ensure reliable task execution in response to environment stimuli. The mechanical structure of our holonomic mobile manipulator is built of two joint manipulators mounted on a holonomic vehicle. The vehicle is equipped with three driven axles with two spherical orthogonal wheels. Taking into account the dynamical interaction between the base and the manipulator, one can define the dynamics of the mobile manipulator and design a nonlinear controller using the input-state linearization method. The control structure of the robot is built in order to demonstrate the main capabilities regarding navigation and obstacle avoidance. Several simulations were conducted to prove the effectiveness of this approach.
Optimal estimator of hypothesis probability for data mining problems with small samples
Authors: Piegat Andrzej , Landowski Marek
Published: March 2016

The paper presents a new (to the best of the authors’ knowledge) estimator of probability called the “Eph √ 2 completeness estimator” along with a theoretical derivation of its optimality. The estimator is especially suitable for a small number of sample items, which is the feature of many real problems characterized by data insufficiency. The control parameter of the estimator is not assumed in an a priori, subjective way, but was determined on the basis of an optimization criterion (the least absolute errors).The estimator was compared with the universally used frequency estimator of probability and with Cestnik’s m-estimator with respect to accuracy. The comparison was realized both theoretically and experimentally. The results show the superiority of the Eph √ 2 completeness estimator over the frequency estimator for the probability interval ph ∈ (0.1, 0.9). The frequency estimator is better for ph ∈ [0, 0.1] and ph ∈ [0.9, 1].
KIS: An automated attribute induction method for classification of DNA sequences
Authors: Biedrzycki Rafał , Arabas Jarosław
Published: March 2016

This paper presents an application of methods from the machine learning domain to solving the task of DNA sequence recognition. We present an algorithm that learns to recognize groups of DNA sequences sharing common features such as sequence functionality. We demonstrate application of the algorithm to find splice sites, i.e., to properly detect donor and acceptor sequences. We compare the results with those of reference methods that have been designed and tuned to detect splice sites. We also show how to use the algorithm to find a human readable model of the IRE (Iron-Responsive Element) and to find IRE sequences. The method, although universal, yields results which are of quality comparable to those obtained by reference methods. In contrast to reference methods, this approach uses models that operate on sequence patterns, which facilitates interpretation of the results by humans.
Modeling nonlinear road traffic networks for junction control
Authors: Péter Tamás
Published: March 2016

The paper introduces a method of mathematical modeling of high scale road traffic networks, where a new special hypermatrix structure is intended to be used. The structure describes the inner–inner, inner–outer and outer–outer relations, and laws of a network area. The research examines the nonlinear equation system. The analysed model can be applied to the testing and planning of large-scale road traffic networks and the regulation of traffic systems. The elaborated model is in state space form, where the states are vehicle densities on a particular lane and the dynamics are described by a nonlinear state constrained positive system. This model can be used directly for simulation and analysis and as a starting point for investigating various control strategies. The stability of the traffic over the network can be analyzed by constructing a linear Lyapunov function and the associated theory. The model points out that in intersection control one must take the traffic density values of both the input and the output sections into account. Generally, the control of any domain has to take the density of input and output sections into consideration.
Melt Creep Recovery of Polyamide 6 and Polypropylene Nanocomposites Blended with Layered Silicate
Authors: Lin G.-G. , Jian Y.-F. Jang , Huang C.-T.
Published: March 2016

Nanocomposites of polyamide six (PA6) reinforced with organoclay were prepared in this study through melt mixing. The blended montmorillonite clay was organically modified with octadecylamine. The loadings of the clay were 1 wt%, 5 wt%, and 9 wt%. The obtained nanocomposites exhibited exfoliation (1 wt%) and intercalation (other compositions) structures. By contrast, if they were mixed with unmodified clay, the PA6 molecules could not enter the silicate interlayer. For polypropylene (PP), forming nanocomposites with organoclay was difficult but made feasible by incorporating the maleated PP. The results of dynamic rheological tests demonstrated that an end-tethered storage modulus was observed for the PA6/organoclay nanocomposites. However, the PP/organoclay exhibited terminal-zone behavior. In addition, the shear creep recovery was conducted on the molten polymer composites. The results indicated that the molten PA6/organoclay nanocomposite exhibited a higher creep-recovery ratio, a measure of the elastic property, than that of pristine PA6. The time constant in the Voigt-Kelvin constitutive model for the PA6/organoclay melts was lower than that of the pristine PA6 due to the superior elastic moduli, because it is defined as the ratio of viscosity to the modulus. However, the recovery ratios for most of the PP nanocomposites were found to be less than that for the pristine PP, indicating the fair reinforcing effect of the organoclay.
Experimental Investigation on Curing Stress in Polymer Composite Using Digital Gradient Sensing Technique
Authors: Hao W. , Chen X. , Yuan Y. , Ma Y.
Published: March 2016

The curing stress and deformation of epoxy resin and aramid fiber/epoxy composites was measured using Digital Gradient Sensing (DGS) technique. First, the working principle of the DGS method was explained, and the governing equations were derived based on angular deflections of light rays. Then the angle deflection of light rays due to curing stress of epoxy resin was measured, and the effect of the fiber bundle and aramid fiber fabric on the stress distribution during formation was analyzed. The experimental results show that angular deflections of light rays can be related to nonuniform distribution of curing stress in epoxy. The fiber bundles and fabric style have important effects on the curing stress distribution. These results play an important role for predicting curing stress and deformation of fiber reinforced composites.
The Comparative Study of Different Mixing Methods for Microcrystalline Cellulose/Polyethylene Composites
Authors: Boran S. , Kiziltas A. , Kiziltas E. E. , Gardner D. J.
Published: March 2016

Polymer composites with polyethylene (PE), microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), and coupling agent (PE-g-MA) were melt blended using a single screw extruder (SSE), twin screw extruder (TSE), and a combination of SSE and extensional flow mixer (EFM) and masterbatch method (MB). The rheological behavior, mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties were investigated to compare material behavior of the MCC-filled PE composites and to evaluate the dispersive mixing efficiency. The composite samples prepared using a single pass method in SSE had relatively larger storage moduli (G′) while those from the TSE and SSE + EFM were smaller. The complex viscosities (η*) of composites with processed using EFM was higher than that of neat PE, indicating better dispersion of the MCC.MCC-filled PE composites processed with EFM showed higher tan delta compared to those of composites. In general, MCC-filled PE composites from the EFM process showed higher viscosity compared to all other composites at all shear rates. The EFM method improved flexural properties more than the other processing methods. The effect of EFM on impact strength of the composites was improved with coupling agent. Addition of MCC, couple agent, and different mixing methods did not significantly affect the thermal properties of the MCC-filled PE composites.
Numerical Simulation of Chaotic Mixing in Single Screw Extruders with Different Baffle Heights
Authors: Xu B.-P. , He L. , Wang M.-G. , Tan S.-Z. , Yu H.-W. , Turng L.-S.
Published: March 2016

A kind of discontinuous baffle, which had the same length as the non-baffle zone distance, was inserted in the unwound channel of a single screw extruder to enhance mixing in the screw channel. The periodic unit of the flow channel was modeled as a dynamic system of complex duct flow. The finite volume method was used to solve the three-dimensional flow of purely viscous non-Newtonian fluid. Fluid particle tracking was performed by a fourth-order Runge–Kutta scheme. The effect of the baffle height on the mixing kinematics was investigated numerically. Poincaré sections were applied to reveal the different patterns and sizes of the KAM tubes. Distributive mixing was then visualized by the evolution of passive tracers initially located at different positions. The variance index and residence time distribution (RTD) were used to evaluate the statistical results. Among the four test cases, the results showed that the case with the baffle height equal to the screw depth had the largest chaotic mixing region, but the shortest mean residence time and the narrowest broadening of RTD under the same pressure gradient.
Participative Mindscapes
Authors: Katan Roger
Published: March 2016

In parallel with my social activism, I introduced architecture into my kinetic art and participatory activism into my architecture. Flexibility and participation in architectural design has been a permanent feature of my practice, bringing new opportunities for self-expression in urban living. To form follows function I opposed form follows movement because it is man oriented while function is object oriented. After my 1962–1964 Mecanographs, machine-made images based on an interaction between the movement, the artist and the machine, I joined forces with Len Lye to determine what kind of positive attributes a Museum of Kinetic Art should have, defining three aspects of kinetic movement: illumination, sound, and physical movement. Vasarely and other kinetic artists put their mark on their time by promoting a form of social art, accessible to all, suggesting movement without actual movement. Walking through my medieval village can be a kinetic experience. The sense of wonder you feel at every corner compares with that of optical art. In the past decade, I moved toward a new form of participatory kinetic expression using state-of-the-art technology (plastics, LED, wireless devices). I view my kinetic work as an architectural experience and architecture as a stimulating kinetic experience.
A Time-Frequency Analysis Method for Low Frequency Oscillation Signals Using Resonance-Based Sparse Signal Decomposition and a Frequency Slice Wavelet Transform
Authors: Zhao Yan , Li Zhimin , Nie Yonghui
Published: March 2016

To more completely extract useful features from low frequency oscillation (LFO) signals, a time-frequency analysis method using resonance-based sparse signal decomposition (RSSD) and a frequency slice wavelet transform (FSWT) is proposed. FSWT can cut time-frequency areas freely, so that any band component feature can be extracted. It can analyze multiple aspects of the LFO signal, including determination of dominant mode, mode seperation and extraction, and 3D map expression. Combined with the Hilbert transform,the parameters of the LFO mode components can be identified. Furthermore, the noise in the LFO signal could reduce the frequency resolution of FSWT analysis, which may impact the accuracy of oscillation mode identification. Complex signals can be separated by predictable Q-factors using RSSD. The RSSD method can do well in LFO signal denoising. Firstly, the LFO signal is decomposed into a high-resonance component, a low-resonance component and a residual by RSSD. The LFO signal is the output of an underdamped system with high quality factor and high-resonance property at a specific frequency. The high-resonance component is the denoised LFO signal, and the residual contains most of the noise. Secondly, the high-resonance component is decomposed by FSWT and the full band of its time-frequency distribution are obtained. The 3D map expression and dominant mode of the LFO can be obtained. After that, due to its energy distribution, frequency slices are chosen to get accurate analysis of time-frequency features. Through reconstructing signals in characteristic frequency slices, separation and extraction of the LFO mode components is realized. Thirdly, high-accuracy detection for modal parameter identification is achieved by the Hilbert transform. Simulation and application examples prove the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Direct Numerical Simulation of Supersonic Turbulent Boundary Layer with Spanwise Wall Oscillation
Authors: Ni Weidan , Lu Lipeng , Ribault Catherine , Fang Jian
Published: March 2016

Direct numerical simulations (DNS) of Mach = 2.9 supersonic turbulent boundary layers with spanwise wall oscillation (SWO) are conducted to investigate the turbulent heat transport mechanism and its relation with the turbulent momentum transport. The turbulent coherent structures are suppressed by SWO and the drag is reduced. Although the velocity and temperature statistics are disturbed by SWO differently, the turbulence transports of momentum and heat are simultaneously suppressed. The Reynolds analogy and the strong Reynolds analogy are also preserved in all the controlled flows, proving the consistent mechanisms of momentum transport and heat transport in the turbulent boundary layer with SWO. Despite the extra dissipation and heat induced by SWO, a net wall heat flux reduction can be achieved with the proper selected SWO parameters. The consistent mechanism of momentum and heat transports supports the application of turbulent drag reduction technologies to wall heat flux controls in high-speed vehicles.
Adaptive Procurement Guidelines for Automatic Selection of Renewable Forest Energy Sources within a Sustainable Energy Production System
Authors: Palander Teijo , Kärhä Kalle
Published: March 2016

An automatic forest-stand selection method was developed that integrates the procurement of profitable energy sources within a sustainable energy production system. We tested the method using a forest harvester simulator. We found that site-specific estimates of forest characteristics are important when predicting the potential of an energy-wood stand as a renewable energy source. Further, tree parameters can be combined with automatic stem measurements from a multiple-tree harvester to predict the energy-wood biomass in the stands. The selection process uses data from profitability studies. The selection process also uses environmental criteria to ensure that sufficient soil organic matter is left behind and to protect the soil against erosion. The integrated system of the harvester automatically adapts the system’s models and stand-selection rules to account for various site-specific stand parameters. Predicting the profitable and environmentally acceptable yield of stand biomass has great potential in sustainable forest resource management, but managers must decide whether the operational procurement guidelines provided by the stand-selection method is acceptable under their local real-world wood procurement conditions.
Advance Care Planning among People Living with Dialysis
Authors: Elliott Barbara , Gessert Charles
Published: March 2016

Purpose: Recent nephrology literature focuses on the need for discussions regarding advance care planning (ACP) for people living with dialysis (PWD). PWD and their family members’ attitudes toward ACP and other aspects of late-life decision making were assessed in this qualitative study. Methodology: Thirty-one interviews were completed with 20 PWD over the age of 70 (mean dialysis 34 months) and 11 family members, related to life experiences, making medical decisions, and planning for the future. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed. Findings: Four themes regarding ACP emerged from this secondary analysis of the interviews: how completing ACP, advance directives (AD), and identifying an agent fit into PWD experiences; PWD understanding of their prognosis; what gives PWD lives meaning and worth; and PWD care preferences when their defined meaning and worth are not part of their experience. These PWD and family members revealed that ACP is ongoing and common among them. They did not seem to think their medical providers needed to be part of these discussions, since family members were well informed. Practical implications: These results suggest that if health care providers and institutions need AD forms completed, it will important to work with both PWD and their family members to assure personal wishes are documented and honored.