bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Invariant Hough Random Ferns for Object Detection and Tracking
Authors: Lin Yimin , Lu Naiguang , Lou Xiaoping , Zou Fang , Yao Yanbin , Du Zhaocai
Published: April 2014

This paper introduces an invariant Hough random ferns (IHRF) incorporating rotation and scale invariance into the local feature description, random ferns classifier training, and Hough voting stages. It is especially suited for object detection under changes in object appearance and scale, partial occlusions, and pose variations. The efficacy of this approach is validated through experiments on a large set of challenging benchmark datasets, and the results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms state‐of‐the‐art conventional methods such as bounding‐box‐based and part‐based methods. Additionally, we also propose an efficient clustering scheme based on the local patches’ appearance and their geometric relations that can provide pixel‐accurate, top‐down segmentations from IHRF back‐projections. This refined segmentation can be used to improve the quality of online object tracking because it avoids the drifting problem. Thus, an online tracking framework based on IHRF, which is trained and updated in each frame to distinguish and segment the object from the background, is established. Finally, the experimental results on both object segmentation and long‐term object tracking show that this method yields accurate and robust tracking performance in a variety of complex scenarios, especially in cases of severe occlusions and nonrigid deformations.
A Debilitating Orthopaedic Complication following Corticosteroid Therapy for Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Authors: Rai Paul , Takwale Vinay
Published: April 2014

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the scaphoid secondary to corticosteroid use is a rare entity. Previous reports in the literature refer to chronic steroid intake. We report a case secondary to low dose, short term use. AVN has a multifactorial cellular and genetic aetiology and most frequently affects the femoral head. Diagnosis relies on a high index of suspicion and early magnetic resonance (MR) scanning. Treatment options are similar to those of traumatic scaphoid nonunions and include vascularised bone grafting and scaphoid excision. Polymyalgia Rheumatica is a common condition and its treatment is led by corticosteroid use. Mild to moderate strengths are advocated. However in our report we show that even with small doses serious adverse effects can be encountered.
Tunable Plasmonic and Hyperbolic Metamaterials Based on Enhanced Nonlinear Response
Authors: Argyropoulos Christos , Monticone Francesco , Estakhri Nasim Mohammadi , Alù Andrea
Published: April 2014

We present here tunable and reconfigurable designs of linear and nonlinear plasmonic and hyperbolic metamaterials. Rich scattering features of multilayered composite nanoparticles are demonstrated, which include complex and exotic scattering signatures combining multiple dipolar Fano resonances and electromagnetic induced transparency (EIT) features. These dipole-dipole multi-Fano scattering responses can be further tuned through altering the plasmonic properties of the concentric layers or the permittivity of the core, for instance, by the presence of nonlinearities. Strong third-order nonlinear effects, such as optical bistability, may also be induced in the scattering response of nonlinear nanoparticles due to the highly enhanced and confined fields inside their core. Nonlinear hyperbolic metamaterial designs are also explored, which can realize tunable positive-to-negative refraction at the same frequency, as a function of the input intensity. Negative Goos-Hänchen shift is demonstrated based only on the hyperbolic dispersion properties of these layered metamaterials without the usual need of negative index metamaterials. The Goos-Hänchen shift may be tuned from positive-to-negative values, when the structure is illuminated with different frequencies. A plethora of applications are envisioned based on the proposed tunable metamaterials, such as ultrafast reconfigurable imaging devices, tunable sensors, novel nanotag designs, and efficient all-optical switches and memories.
Sitagliptin Prevents Inflammation and Apoptotic Cell Death in the Kidney of Type 2 Diabetic Animals
Authors: Marques Catarina , Mega Cristina , Gonçalves Andreia , Rodrigues-Santos Paulo , Teixeira-Lemos Edite , Teixeira Frederico , Fontes-Ribeiro Carlos , Reis Flávio , Fernandes Rosa
Published: April 2014

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitor, in preventing the deleterious effects of diabetes on the kidney in an animal model of type 2 diabetes mellitus; the Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rat: 20-week-old rats were treated with sitagliptin (10 mg/kg bw/day) during 6 weeks. Glycaemia and bloodHbA1clevels were monitored, as well as kidney function and lesions. Kidney mRNA and/or protein content/distribution of DPP-IV, GLP-1, GLP-1R, TNF-α, IL-1β, BAX, Bcl-2, and Bid were evaluated by RT-PCR and/or western blotting/immunohistochemistry. Sitagliptin treatment improved glycaemic control, as reflected by the significantly reduced levels of glycaemia andHbA1c(by about 22.5% and 1.2%, resp.) and ameliorated tubulointerstitial and glomerular lesions. Sitagliptin prevented the diabetes-induced increase in DPP-IV levels and the decrease in GLP-1 levels in kidney. Sitagliptin increased colocalization of GLP-1 and GLP-1R in the diabetic kidney. Sitagliptin also decreased IL-1βand TNF-αlevels, as well as, prevented the increase of BAX/Bcl-2 ratio, Bid protein levels, and TUNEL-positive cells which indicates protective effects against inflammation and proapoptotic state in the kidney of diabetic rats, respectively. In conclusion, sitagliptin might have a major role in preventing diabetic nephropathy evolution due to anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic properties.
Human Gaze Following Response Is Affected by Visual Acuity
Authors: Spoor Marcella , Hosseini Behdokht , van Alphen Bart , Frens Maarten A. , van der Geest Jos N.
Published: April 2014

The present study investigated how gaze following eye movements are affected by stimulus contrast and spatial frequency and by aberrations in central visual acuity due to refractive errors. We measured 30 healthy subjects with a range of visual acuities but without any refractive correction. Visual acuity was tested using a Landolt-C chart. Subjects were divided into three groups with low, intermediate, or good visual acuity. Gaze following responses (GFR) to moving Gabor patches were recorded by video-oculography. In each trial, the subjects were presented with a single Gabor patch with a specific spatial frequency and luminance contrast that moved sinusoidally in the horizontal plane. We observed that GFR gain decreased with increasing spatial frequency and decreasing contrast and was correlated with visual acuity. GFR gain was lower and decreased more for subjects with lower visual acuity; this was especially so for lower stimulus contrasts that are not tested in standard acuity tests. The largest differences between the groups were observed at spatial frequencies around 4 cpd and at contrasts up to 10%. Aberrations in central visual acuity due to refractive errors affect the GFR response depending on the contrast and spatial frequency of the moving stimulus. Measuring this effect may contribute to a better estimate of changes in visual function as a result of aging, disease, or treatments meant to improve vision.
Analysis of Vertical-Horizontal Coupling Vibration Characteristics of Rolling Mill Rolls Based on Strip Dynamic Deformation Process
Authors: Hou Dongxiao , Peng Rongrong , Liu Haoran
Published: April 2014

Nonlinear dynamic rolling forces in the vertical and horizontal directions are, respectively, established, considering the impact of vertical and horizontal directions vibration of rolls. Then a vertical-horizontal coupling nonlinear vibration dynamic model of rolling mill rolls is proposed, based on the interactions between this dynamic rolling force and mill structure. The amplitude-frequency equations of the main resonance and inner resonance are carried out by using multiple-scale method. The characteristics of amplitude frequency under nonlinear stiffness, damping, and amplitude of the disturbance are obtained by adopting the actual parameters of 1780 rolling mills. Finally, the bifurcation behavior of the system is studied, and it is found that many dynamic behaviors such as period, period-3 motion, and chaos exist in rolling mill, and this behavior could be restrained effectively by choosing proper system parameters.
Comparative Study of Popular Objective Functions for Damping Power System Oscillations in Multimachine System
Authors: Niamul Islam Naz , Hannan M. A. , Shareef Hussain , Mohamed Azah , Salam M. A.
Published: April 2014

Power oscillation damping controller is designed in linearized model with heuristic optimization techniques. Selection of the objective function is very crucial for damping controller design by optimization algorithms. In this research, comparative analysis has been carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of popular objective functions used in power system oscillation damping. Two-stage lead-lag damping controller by means of power system stabilizers is optimized using differential search algorithm for different objective functions. Linearized model simulations are performed to compare the dominant mode’s performance and then the nonlinear model is continued to evaluate the damping performance over power system oscillations. All the simulations are conducted in two-area four-machine power system to bring a detailed analysis. Investigated results proved that multiobjective D-shaped function is an effective objective function in terms of moving unstable and lightly damped electromechanical modes into stable region. Thus, D-shape function ultimately improves overall system damping and concurrently enhances power system reliability.
Robust Control for Autonomous Spacecraft Evacuation with Model Uncertainty and Upper Bound of Performance with Constraints
Authors: Sheng Dian , Yang Xuebo , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: April 2014

This paper studies the problem of guaranteed cost control for spacecraft evacuation. The relative dynamic model is established based on Clohessy‐Wiltshire (C‐W) equations. The paper has taken parameter uncertainty, output tracking, disturbance attenuation, and fuel cost into consideration. The paper introduces a new Lyapunov approach, so the controller design problem can be transferred into a convex optimization problem subject to linear matrix inequality (LMI) constraints. By using the controller, the spacecraft evacuation can be completed in a safe extent. Meanwhile, the fuel cost also has an upper bound. Then the paper analyzes the approach of evacuation and discusses possible initial states of the spacecraft for the controller design. An illustrative example is applied to show the effectiveness of the proposed control design method, and different performances caused by different initial states of spacecraft (‐V‐bar, ‐R‐bar, and +H‐bar) are simulated.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of New Substituted 3-[4-(Phenylsulfonamido)benzoyl]-2H-1-benzopyran-2-one Derivatives asα-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Authors: Wang Yu-ling , Zhang Ting-jian , Liang Jing-wei , Meng Fan-hao , Wang Shao-jie
Published: April 2014

A series of new substituted 3-[4-(phenylsulfonamido)benzoyl]-2H-1-benzopyran-2-one derivatives bearing groups methoxy,tert-butyl, and atoms of halogens at thepara-position of the A-ring were synthesized andin vitrobiological activities were evaluated as nonsugarα-glucosidase inhibitors. Most of the test compounds demonstrated significantα-glucosidase inhibitory activity relative to that of Acarbose (IC50= 29.26 μM). Thepara-substitution with a methoxy group or halogens could notably increase the potency. Compounds17,18, and23, with IC50values of 0.025 μM, 0.014 μM, and 0.018 μM, respectively, may be of significance for the further development of new nonsugarα-glucosidase inhibitors.
Identification of MicroRNA as Sepsis Biomarker Based on miRNAs Regulatory Network Analysis
Authors: Huang Jie , Sun Zhandong , Yan Wenying , Zhu Yujie , Lin Yuxin , Chen Jiajai , Shen Bairong , Wang Jian
Published: April 2014

Sepsis is regarded as arising from an unusual systemic response to infection but the physiopathology of sepsis remains elusive. At present, sepsis is still a fatal condition with delayed diagnosis and a poor outcome. Many biomarkers have been reported in clinical application for patients with sepsis, and claimed to improve the diagnosis and treatment. Because of the difficulty in the interpreting of clinical features of sepsis, some biomarkers do not show high sensitivity and specificity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs which pair the sites in mRNAs to regulate gene expression in eukaryotes. They play a key role in inflammatory response, and have been validated to be potential sepsis biomarker recently. In the present work, we apply a miRNA regulatory network based method to identify novel microRNA biomarkers associated with the early diagnosis of sepsis. By analyzing the miRNA expression profiles and the miRNA regulatory network, we obtained novel miRNAs associated with sepsis. Pathways analysis, disease ontology analysis, and protein-protein interaction network (PIN) analysis, as well as ROC curve, were exploited to testify the reliability of the predicted miRNAs. We finally identified 8 novel miRNAs which have the potential to be sepsis biomarkers.
Separable and Error-Free Reversible Data Hiding in Encrypted Image with High Payload
Authors: Yin Zhaoxia , Luo Bin , Hong Wien
Published: April 2014

This paper proposes a separable reversible data-hiding scheme in encrypted image which offers high payload and error-free data extraction. The cover image is partitioned into nonoverlapping blocks and multigranularity encryption is applied to obtain the encrypted image. The data hider preprocesses the encrypted image and randomly selects two basic pixels in each block to estimate the block smoothness and indicate peak points. Additional data are embedded into blocks in the sorted order of block smoothness by using local histogram shifting under the guidance of the peak points. At the receiver side, image decryption and data extraction are separable and can be free to choose. Compared to previous approaches, the proposed method is simpler in calculation while offering better performance: larger payload, better embedding quality, and error-free data extraction, as well as image recovery.
Multiple Congenital Epulis in Alveolar Ridges of Maxilla and Mandible in a Newborn: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Saki Nader , Araghi Somayeh
Published: April 2014

Congenital granular cell lesion (CGCL) or congenital epulis is an uncommon benign of the oral cavity tumor appearing at birth with typical clinical and pathologic features. It predominately affects females, mainly on the anterior maxillary alveolar ridge, and occurs usually as a single mass, although sometimes as multiple. The left side incisor area is the most common site. The etiology and histogenesis of the lesion remain obscure. Though it is a benign lesion, the tumor may cause feeding and respiratory problems if there are too large or multiple tumors. We report a case of a three-day-old, female newborn, who was referred to our hospital with multiple congenital oral swellings arising from the maxilla and mandible. The tumors caused a feeding problem and, hence, they were resected by surgical excision under general anesthesia.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation in a Prey-Predator System with Disease in the Prey and Two Delays
Authors: Liu Juan
Published: April 2014

This paper is concerned with a prey-predator system with disease in the prey and two delays. Local stability of the positive equilibrium of the system and existence of local Hopf bifurcation are investigated by choosing different combinations of the two delays as bifurcation parameters. For further investigation, the direction and the stability of the Hopf bifurcation are determined by using the normal form method and center manifold theorem. Finally, some numerical simulations are given to support the theoretical analysis.
Major Congenital Malformations in Barbados: The Prevalence, the Pattern, and the Resulting Morbidity and Mortality
Authors: Singh Keerti , Krishnamurthy Kandamaran , Greaves Camille , Kandamaran Latha , Nielsen Anders L. , Kumar Alok
Published: April 2014

Objectives. To study the prevalence and the pattern of major congenital malformations and its contribution to the overall perinatal morbidity and mortality. Methods. It is a retrospective population based study. It includes all major congenital malformations in newborns during 1993-2012. The data was collected from the birth register, the neonatal admission register and the individual patient records at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital where over 90% of deliveries take place and it is the only facility for the care of sick newborns in this country. Results. The overall prevalence of major congenital malformations among the live births was 59/10,000 live births and that among the stillbirths was 399/10,000 stillbirths. Circulatory system was the most commonly affected and accounted for 20% of all the major congenital malformations. Individually, Down syndrome (4.1/10, 000 live births) was the commonest major congenital malformation. There was a significant increase in the overall prevalence during the study period. Major congenital malformations were responsible for 14% of all neonatal death. Conclusions. Less than 1% of all live newborns have major congenital malformations with a preponderance of the malformations of the circulatory system. Major congenital malformations contribute significantly to the overall neonatal morbidity and mortality in this country.
Influence of Northwest Cloudbands on Southwest Australian Rainfall
Authors: Telcik Nicola , Pattiaratchi Charitha
Published: April 2014

Northwest cloudbands are tropical-extratropical feature that crosses the Australian continent originating from Australia’s northwest coast and develops in a NW-SE orientation. In paper, atmospheric and oceanic reanalysis data (NCEP) and Reynolds reconstructed sea surface temperature data were used to examine northwest cloudband activity across the Australian mainland. An index that reflected the monthly, seasonal, and interannual activity of northwest cloudbands between 1950 and 1999 was then created. Outgoing longwave radiation, total cloud cover, and latent heat flux data were used to determine the number of days when a mature northwest cloudband covered part of the Australian continent between April and October. Regional indices were created for site-specific investigations, especially of cloudband-related rainfall. High and low cloudband activity can affect the distribution of cloudbands and their related rainfall. In low cloudband activity seasons, cloudbands were mostly limited to the south and west Australian coasts. In high cloudband activity seasons, cloudbands penetrated farther inland, which increased the inland rainfall. A case study of the southwest Australian region demonstrated that, in a below average rainfall year, cloudband-related rainfall was limited to the coast. In an above average rainfall year, cloudband-related rainfall occurred further inland.
Determinants of Default from Pulmonary Tuberculosis Treatment in Kuwait
Authors: Zhang Qing , Gaafer Mohamed , El Bayoumy Ibrahim
Published: April 2014

Objectives.To determine the prevalence and risk factors of default from pulmonary tuberculosis treatment in Kuwait.Design.Retrospective study. Patients and methods. We studied all patients who were registered for pulmonary tuberculosis treatment between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2012, and admitted into TB wards in El Rashid Center or treated in the outpatient clinic in TB Control Unit.Results.There were 110 (11.5%) patients who defaulted from treatment. Fifty-six percent of those who defaulted did so in the first 2 months of treatment and 86.4% of them were still bacteriologically positive at the time of default. Key risk factors associated with noncompliance were male sex, low educational level, non-Kuwaiti nations, history of default, and history of concomitant diabetes mellitus, liver disease, or lung cancer. Multiple drug resistance was also associated with default from treatment.Conclusion.Default from treatment may be partially responsible for the persistent relatively high rates of tuberculosis in Kuwait. Health professionals and policy makers should ensure that all barriers to treatment are removed and that incentives are used to encourage treatment compliance.
Cumulative Effect of Pressing and Drying on Stress Generation within a Green Ceramic Compact
Authors: Vidal-Sallé E. , Falgon D. , Peczalski R. , Boyer J-C.
Published: April 2014

The internal stress field induced by uniaxial pressing and subsequent convective drying of a green ceramic powder was simulated by the finite element method. A density dependent elastoplastic constitutive law was used for the mechanical modeling of the compaction. A diffusive water transfer equation and a purely elastic behavior with imposed hydrostrain involving shrinkage were applied for the modeling of the drying process. The key material properties (hydrodiffusivity, hydrocontraction coefficient, Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and yield surface parameters) had been experimentally measured and introduced as functions of material density and water content. If residual stresses due to the compaction operation were taken into account, the maximum value of the tensile stress at the top external edge of the wheel and at the beginning of the drying process was two times higher than for a stress free green ceramic compact. Beyond the residual stress onset, the compaction operation induced density heterogeneities which had important consequences on the mechanical behavior of the compact.
The Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in Vascular Inflammation and Remodeling
Authors: Pacurari Maricica , Kafoury Ramzi , Tchounwou Paul B. , Ndebele Kenneth
Published: April 2014

The RAAS through its physiological effectors plays a key role in promoting and maintaining inflammation. Inflammation is an important mechanism in the development and progression of CVD such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. In addition to its main role in regulating blood pressure and its role in hypertension, RAAS has proinflammatory and profibrotic effects at cellular and molecular levels. Blocking RAAS provides beneficial effects for the treatment of cardiovascular and renal diseases. Evidence shows that inhibition of RAAS positively influences vascular remodeling thus improving CVD outcomes. The beneficial vascular effects of RAAS inhibition are likely due to decreasing vascular inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and positive effects on regeneration of endothelial progenitor cells. Inflammatory factors such as ICAM-1, VCAM-1, TNFα, IL-6, and CRP have key roles in mediating vascular inflammation and blocking RAAS negatively modulates the levels of these inflammatory molecules. Some of these inflammatory markers are clinically associated with CVD events. More studies are required to establish long-term effects of RAAS inhibition on vascular inflammation, vascular cells regeneration, and CVD clinical outcomes. This review presents important information on RAAS’s role on vascular inflammation, vascular cells responses to RAAS, and inhibition of RAAS signaling in the context of vascular inflammation, vascular remodeling, and vascular inflammation-associated CVD. Nevertheless, the review also equates the need to rethink and rediscover new RAAS inhibitors.
Existence Theorems for Solvability of a Functional Equation Arising in Dynamic Programming
Authors: Deepmala
Published: April 2014

The paper deals with the existence, uniqueness, and iterative approximations of solutions for the functional equations arising in dynamic programming of multistage decision making processes in Banach spacesBC(S)andB(S)and complete metric spaceBB(S), respectively. Our main results extend, improve, and generalize the results due to several authors. Some examples are also given to demonstrate the advantage of our results over existing one in the literature.
Stability of Uncertain Impulsive Stochastic Genetic Regulatory Networks with Time-Varying Delay in the Leakage Term
Authors: Li Jun , Hu Manfeng , Cao Jinde , Yang Yongqing , Jin Yinghua
Published: April 2014

This paper is concerned with the stability problem for a class of uncertain impulsive stochastic genetic regulatory networks (UISGRNs) with time-varying delays both in the leakage term and in the regulator function. By constructing a suitable Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional which uses the information on the lower bound of the delay sufficiently, a delay-dependent stability criterion is derived for the proposed UISGRNs model by using the free-weighting matrices method and convex combination technique. The conditions obtained here are expressed in terms of LMIs whose feasibility can be checked easily by MATLAB LMI control toolbox. In addition, three numerical examples are given to justify the obtained stability results.
The Morphology and Functions of Articular Chondrocytes on a Honeycomb-Patterned Surface
Authors: Eniwumide Joshua O. , Tanaka Masaru , Nagai Nobuhiro , Morita Yuka , de Bruijn Joost , Yamamoto Sadaaki , Onodera Shin , Kondo Eiji , Yasuda Kazunori , Shimomura Masatsugu
Published: April 2014

The present study investigated the potential of a novel micropatterned substrate for neocartilage formation. Articular chondrocytes were cultured on poly(ɛ-caprolactone) materials whose surfaces were either flat or honeycomb-patterned. The latter was prepared using a novel self-organization technique, while the former, was prepared by spin-coating. The chondrocytes attached and proliferated on both surfaces. On the honeycomb films, chondrocytes were found at the top surface and encased within the 10 μm pores. Meanwhile, chondrocytes on the spin-coated surface flattened out. Accumulation of DNA and keratin sulphate was comparatively higher on the honeycomb films within the first 7 days. At their respective peaks, DNA concentration increased on the honeycomb and flat surfaces by approximately 210% and 400% of their day 1 values, respectively. However, cultures on the flat surface took longer to peak. Extracellular Matrix (ECM) concentrations peaked at 900% and 320% increases for the honeycomb and flat cultures. Type II collagen was upregulated on the honeycomb and flat surfaces by as much as 28% and 25% of their day 1 values, while aggrecan was downregulated with time, by 3.4% and 7.4%. These initial results demonstrate the potential usefulness of honeycomb-based scaffolds during early cultures neocartilage and soft tissue engineering.
Approximating the Solution of the Linear and Nonlinear Fuzzy Volterra Integrodifferential Equations Using Expansion Method
Authors: Allahviranloo T. , Abbasbandy S. , Hashemzehi S.
Published: April 2014

The present research study introduces an innovative method applying power series to solve numerically the linear and nonlinear fuzzy integrodifferential equation systems. Finally, it ends with some examples supporting the idea.
Axillary Bud Proliferation Approach for Plant Biodiversity Conservation and Restoration
Authors: Ngezahayo F. , Liu B.
Published: April 2014

Due to mainly human population pressure and activities, global biodiversity is getting reduced and particularly plant biodiversity is becoming at high risk of extinction. Consequently, many efforts have been deployed to develop conservation methods. Because it does not involve cell dedifferentiation of differentiated cells but rather the development and growth of new shoots from preexisting meristems, the axillary bud proliferation approach is the method offering least risk of genetic instability. Indeed, meristems are more resistant to genetic changes than disorganized tissues. The present review explored through the scientific literature the axillary bud proliferation approach and the possible somaclonal variation that could arise from it. Almost genetic stability or low level of genetic variation is often reported. On the contrary, in a few cases studied to date, DNA methylation alterations often appeared in the progenies, showing epigenetic variations in the regenerated plants from axillary bud culture. Fortunately, epigenetic changes are often temporary and plants may revert to the normal phenotype. Thus, in the absence of genetic variations and the existence of reverting epigenetic changes over time, axillary bud culture can be adopted as an alternative nonconventional way of conserving and restoring of plant biodiversity.
Asymptotics for the Solutions to Defective Renewal Equations
Authors: Wang Kaiyong , Chen Yang , Tan Zhongquan
Published: April 2014

This paper investigates the defective renewal equations under the nonconvolution equivalent distribution class. The asymptotics of the solution to the defective renewal equations have been given for the heavy-tailed and light-tailed cases, respectively.
When Is the Complement of the Comaximal Graph of a Commutative Ring Planar?
Authors: Visweswaran S. , Parejiya Jaydeep
Published: April 2014

Let R be a commutative ring with identity. In this paper we classify rings R such that the complement of comaximal graph of R is planar. We also consider the subgraph of the complement of comaximal graph of R induced on the set S of all nonunits of R with the property that each element of S is not in the Jacobson radical of R and classify rings R such that this subgraph is planar.
Analytical, FEA, and Experimental Comparisons of Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting Using Engine Vibrations
Authors: Khalatkar Abhay , Gupta V. K. , Agrawal Ankit
Published: April 2014

Piezoelectric elements can be used as sensors and actuators in flexible structures. In this paper, using the most basic concepts of piezoelectric micropower generators, all useful mathematical equations for getting analytical output are discussed and derived for different piezo positions on cantilever beam and then 3D finite element modeling and simulation of generalized piezoelectric laminated beam problem with proper specifications and properties are done in ANSYS12.0. Experimental analysis is also done on the very practical problem to harvest energy (to get electric energy) by applying some deflection (mechanical energy) on piezo-bonded aluminum beam, that is, to harvest energy (at microlevel at least) by using vibrations of 4-stroke car diesel engine with mounting of piezo cantilever beam. Here piezoelectric beam is used to measure the charge generated from the engine vibrations. The vibration amplitudes are measured with a Laser Vibrometer with considerations of maximum number of power cycles is to be covered for analysis. The vibration response data of displacement of the cantilever at free end measured from Vibrometer are considered for harmonic and analytical analyses as mean displacement amplitude of 3.98 mm at free end. The study further carried out for effect of different piezo positions and various engine speeds also. Then comparison is also done among obtained results from these three analyses to get validation of all derived mathematical equations.
Linearization of a Matrix Riccati Equation Associated to an Optimal Control Problem
Authors: Zitouni Foued , Lefebvre Mario
Published: April 2014

The matrix Riccati equation that must be solved to obtain the solution to stochastic optimal control problems known as LQG homing is linearized for a class of processes. The results generalize a theorem proved by Whittle and the one-dimensional case already considered by the authors. A particular two-dimensional problem is solved explicitly.
Structure-Activity Relationship for Fe(III)-Salen-Like Complexes as Potent Anticancer Agents
Authors: Ghanbari Zahra , Housaindokht Mohammad R. , Izadyar Mohammad , Bozorgmehr Mohammad R. , Eshtiagh-Hosseini Hossein , Bahrami Ahmad R. , Matin Maryam M. , Khoshkholgh Maliheh Javan
Published: April 2014

Quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) for the anticancer activity of Fe(III)-salen and salen-like complexes was studied. The methods of density function theory (B3LYP/LANL2DZ) were used to optimize the structures. A pool of descriptors was calculated: 1497 theoretical descriptors and quantum-chemical parameters, shielding NMR, and electronic descriptors. The study of structure and activity relationship was performed with multiple linear regression (MLR) and artificial neural network (ANN). In nonlinear method, the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) was applied in order to choose the most effective descriptors. The ANN-ANFIS model with high statistical significance (R2train=0.99, RMSE = 0.138, andQ2LOO=0.82) has better capability to predict the anticancer activity of the new compounds series of this family. Based on this study, anticancer activity of this compound is mainly dependent on the geometrical parameters, position, and the nature of the substituent of salen ligand.
Factor Structure of CIWA-Ar in Alcohol Withdrawal
Authors: Bakhla Ajay Kumar , Khess Christoday R. J. , Verma Vijay , Hembram Mahesh , Praharaj Samir Kumar , Soren Subhas
Published: April 2014

Objective. To identify the underlying factor structure of alcohol withdrawal syndrome, as measured with CIWA-Ar.Methods. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the items of CIWA-Ar. On 201 alcohol-dependent male patients seeking treatment for alcohol withdrawal at 36 hours of abstinence.Results. A three-factor solution was obtained that accounted for 68.74% of total variance. First factor had loading from four items (34.34% variance), second factor also had four items (24.25% variance), and the third had two items (10.04% variance).Conclusions. Factor analysis reveals the existence of multidimensionality of alcohol withdrawal as measured with CIWA-Ar and we found three factors that can be named as delirious, autonomic and nonspecific factors.
Zeros, Poles, and Fixed Points of Meromorphic Solutions of Difference Painlevé Equations
Authors: Lan Shuang-Ting , Chen Zong-Xuan
Published: April 2014

In this paper, we mainly study the properties of transcendental meromorphic solutionsf(z)of difference Painlevé equationsw(z+1)w(z-1)(w(z)-1)=η(z)w2(z)-λ(z)w(z)andw(z+1)w(z-1)(w(z)-1)=η(z)w(z)and obtain precise estimations of the exponents of convergence of zeros, poles ofΔf(z)andΔf(z)/f(z), and of fixed points off(z+c)for anyc∈ℂ.
Uniform Nonlinear Constitutive Model and Parameters for Clay in Different Consolidation Conditions Based on Regression Method
Authors: Cheng Tao , Yan Keqin , Zhang Huazhi , Luo Xianfeng , Li Shengfang
Published: April 2014

The nonlinear constitutive relations of clay are investigated considering different initial conditions. Highly compressible clay is selected as the test sample. Two groups of tri‐axial compression tests are performed, respectively, after K0 consolidation and isotropic consolidation. On the basis of the framework of E ~ v model, a uniform nonlinear constitutive model is proposed by fitting the test data. With the average slope of the unloading‐reloading curve selected as the unloading modulus, the unloading function is constructed as the loading‐unloading criterion. Moreover, a comparison between the experimental stress‐strain curves and the results predicted by the constitutive model is made. It is shown that the prediction is reasonable, which can reflect the stress‐strain behavior of the soil under the K0 consolidation and isotropic consolidation conditions. The maximum relative error of the two series of curves is not remarkable, less than 6%.
Caregiver Burden in Epilepsy: Determinants and Impact
Authors: Karakis Ioannis , Cole Andrew J. , Montouris Georgia D. , San Luciano Marta , Meador Kimford J. , Piperidou Charitomeni
Published: April 2014

Aim. Caregiver burden (CB) in epilepsy constitutes an understudied area. Here we attempt to identify the magnitude of this burden, the factors associated with it, and its impact to caregiver quality of life (QOL). Methods. 48 persons with epilepsy (PWE) underwent video-EEG monitoring and their caregivers completed questionnaires providing demographic, disease-related, psychiatric, cognitive, sleep, QOL, and burden information.
Results. On regression analysis, higher number of antiepileptic drugs, poorer patient neuropsychological performance, lower patient QOL score, and lower caregiver education level were associated with higher CB. Time allocated to patient care approximated but did not attain statistical significance. A moderate inverse correlation between CB and caregiver QOL physical component summary score and a stronger inverse correlation between CB and caregiver QOL mental component summary score were seen. Conclusion. In a selected cohort of PWE undergoing video-EEG monitoring, we identified modest degree of CB, comparable to that reported in the literature for other chronic neurological conditions. It is associated with specific patient and caregiver characteristics and has a negative effect on caregiver QOL.
Analysis of Glass-Reinforced Epoxy Material for Radio Frequency Resonator
Authors: Zaman M. R. , Islam M. T. , Misran N. , Yatim Baharudin
Published: April 2014

A radio frequency (RF) resonator using glass-reinforced epoxy material for C and X band is proposed in this paper. Microstrip line technology for RF over glass-reinforced epoxy material is analyzed. Coupling mechanism over RF material and parasitic coupling performance is explained utilizing even and odd mode impedance with relevant equivalent circuit. Babinet’s principle is deployed to explicate the circular slot ground plane of the proposed resonator. The resonator is designed over four materials from different backgrounds which are glass-reinforced epoxy, polyester, gallium arsenide (GaAs), and rogers RO 4350B. Parametric studies and optimization algorithm are applied over the geometry of the microstrip resonator to achieve dual band response for C and X band. Resonator behaviors for different materials are concluded and compared for the same structure. The final design is fabricated over glass-reinforced epoxy material. The fabricated resonator shows a maximum directivity of 5.65 dBi and 6.62 dBi at 5.84 GHz and 8.16 GHz, respectively. The lowest resonance response is less than −20 dB for C band and −34 dB for X band. The resonator is prototyped using LPKF (S63) drilling machine to study the material behavior.
Comprehensive Review and Comparative Analysis of Hardware Architectures for Sobel Edge Detector
Authors: Singh Sanjay , Saurav Sumeet , Saini Ravi , Saini Anil Kumar , Shekhar Chandra , Vohra Anil
Published: April 2014

This paper presents a comprehensive review and a comparative study of various hardware/FPGA implementations of Sobel edge detector and explored different architectures for Sobel gradient computation unit in order to show the various trade-offs involved in choosing one over another. The different architectures using pipelining and/or parallelism (key methodologies for improving the performance/frame rates) are explored for gradient computation unit in Sobel edge detector. How the different architectures affected performance (in terms of video frame rate and image size) and area (in terms of FPGA resources usages) has been demonstrated. By exploiting the trade-offs between video frame rate, image size, and FPGA resources a designer should be able to find an optimal architecture for a given application.
SWIR Cameras for the Automotive Field: Two Test Cases
Authors: Bernini Nicola , Bertozzi Massimo , Cerri Pietro , Fedriga Rean Isabella
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the results obtained by the 2WIDE_SENSE Project, an EU funded project aimed at developing a low cost camera sensor able to acquire the full spectrum from the visible bandwidth to the Short Wave InfraRed one (from 400 to 1700 nm). Two specific applications have been evaluated, both related to the automotive field: one regarding the possibility of detecting icy and wet surfaces in front of the vehicle and the other regarding the pedestrian detection capability. The former application relies on the physical fact that water shows strong electromagnetic radiation absorption capabilities in the SWIR band around 1450 nm and thus an icy or wet pavement should be seen as dark; the latter is based on the observation that the amount of radiation in the SWIR band is quite high even at night and in case of poor weather conditions. Results show that even the use of SWIR and visible spectrum seems to be a promising approach; the use in outdoor environment is not always effective.
Numerical Analysis of Nanofluids in Differentially Heated Enclosure Undergoing Orthogonal Rotation
Authors: Saleh H. , Hashim I.
Published: April 2014

Natural convection heat transfer in a rotating, differentially heated enclosure is studied numerically in this paper. The rotating enclosure is filled with water-Ag, water-Cu, water-Al2O3, or water-TiO2nanofluids. The governing equations are in velocity, pressure, and temperature formulation and solved using the staggered grid arrangement together with MAC method. The governing parameters considered are the solid volume fraction,0.0 ≤ ϕ ≤ 0.05, and the rotational speeds,3.5≤ Ω ≤ 17.5 rpm, and the centrifugal force is smaller than the Coriolis force and both forces were kept below the buoyancy force. It is found that the angular locations of the local maximums heat transfer were sensitive to rotational speeds and nanoparticles concentration. The global quantity of heat transfer rate increases about 1.5%, 1.1%, 0.8%, and 0.6% by increasing 1%ϕof the nanoparticles Ag, Cu, Al2O3, and TiO2, respectively, for the considered rotational speeds.
Probing Photocatalytic Characteristics of Sb‐Doped TiO2 under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Luo Lingjing , Li Tianfeng , Ran Xia , Wang Pan , Guo Lijun
Published: April 2014

Sb‐doped TiO2 nanoparticle with varied dopant concentrations was synthesized using titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) and antimony chloride (SbCl3) as the precursors. The properties of Sb‐doped TiO2 nanoparticles were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), fluorescence spectrophotometer, and Uv‐vis spectrophotometer. The absorption edge of TiO2 nanoparticles could be extended to visible region after doping with antimony, in contrast to the UV absorption of pure TiO2. The results showed that the photocatalytic activity of Sb‐doped TiO2 nanoparticles was much more active than pure TiO2. The 0.1% Sb‐doped TiO2 nanoparticles demonstrated the best photocatalytic activity which was better than that of the Degussa P25 under visible light irradiation using terephthalic acid as fluorescent probe. The effects of Sb dopant on the photocatalytic activity and the involved mechanism were extensively investigated in this work as well.
Improvement of Homogeneity and Aspect Ratio of Silicon Tips for Field Emission by Reactive-Ion Etching
Authors: Lawrowski Robert Damian , Prommesberger Christian , Langer Christoph , Dams Florian , Schreiner Rupert
Published: April 2014

The homogeneity of emitters is very important for the performance of field emission (FE) devices. Reactive-ion etching (RIE) and oxidation have significant influences on the geometry of silicon tips. The RIE influences mainly the anisotropy of the emitters. Pressure has a strong impact on the anisotropic factor. Reducing the pressure results in a higher anisotropy, but the etch rate is also lower. A longer time of etching compensates this effect. Furthermore an improvement of homogeneity was observed. The impact of uprating is quite low for the anisotropic factor, but significant for the homogeneity. At low power the height and undercut of the emitters are more constant over the whole wafer. The oxidation itself is very homogeneous and has no observable effect on further variation of the homogeneity. This modified fabrication process allows solving the problem of inhomogeneity of previous field emission arrays.
High HPV Infection Prevalence in Men from Infertile Couples and Lack of Relationship between Seminal HPV Infection and Sperm Quality
Authors: Golob Barbara , Poljak Mario , Verdenik Ivan , Kolbezen Simoniti Mojca , Vrtačnik Bokal Eda , Zorn Branko
Published: April 2014

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are the most frequently sexually transmitted viruses and etiological agents of several human cancers. Controversial results of the role of HPV in infertile population on sperm parameters have been published. The aim of this study was to estimate the type-specific prevalence of HPV DNA infection of the external genitalia and semen in 340 Slovenian men from infertile couples and to establish the relationship between seminal HPV DNA infection and abnormal sperm parameters. Self-taken swabs of the entire penile surface and semen samples were collected, and HPV detection and genotyping were performed. HPV DNA was detected in 37.12% of external genitalia and in 13.61% of semen samples with high HPV type concordance of both sampling sites. The most prevalent HPV types in the male external genitalia were HPV-CP6108 and HPV-84. The most prevalent HPV types in semen were HPV-53 and HPV-CP6108. The prevalence of HPV infection between normozoospermic men and men with abnormal sperm parameters did not differ significantly. Sperm quality did not differ significantly between men with seminal HPV infection and uninfected men. In conclusion, the men from infertile couples are equally susceptible to HPV infection regardless of their fertile potential; seminal HPV infection does not impair sperm quality.
Early COPD Diagnosis in Family Medicine Practice: How to Implement Spirometry?
Authors: Saad Nathalie , Sedeno Maria , Metz Katrina , Bourbeau Jean
Published: April 2014

Introduction. COPD is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because symptoms go unrecognized. Furthermore, spirometry is often not done. Methods. Study was conducted in diverse family medicine practice settings. Patients were targeted if respiratory symptoms were present. Patients had a spirometry to confirm the presence of airflow obstruction and COPD diagnosis. An evaluation of the process was done to better understand facilitating/limiting factors to the implementation of a primary care based spirometry program. Results. 12 of 19 primary care offices participated. 196 of 246 (80%) patients targeted based on the presence of smoking and respiratory symptoms did not have COPD; 18 (7%) and 32 (13%) had COPD, respectively, GOLD I and ≥II. There was no difference in the type and number of respiratory symptoms between non-COPD and COPD patients. Most of the clinics did not have access to a trained healthcare professional to accomplish spirometry. They agreed that giving access to a trained healthcare professional was the easiest and most reliable way of doing spirometry. Conclusion. Spirometry, a simple test, is recommended in guidelines to make the diagnosis of COPD. The lack of allocated time and training of healthcare professionals makes its implementation challenging in family medicine practices.