bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystallographic phasing with NMR models: an envelope approach
Authors: Zhang Weizhe , Zhang Tao , Zhang Hongmin , Hao Quan
Published: June 2014

X-ray crystallography and NMR are complementary tools in structural biology. However, it is often difficult to use NMR structures as search models in molecular replacement (MR) to phase crystallographic data. In this study, a new approach is reported utilizing a molecular envelope of NMR structures for MR phasing with the programFSEARCHat low resolution (about 6 Å). Several targets with both crystallographic and NMR structures available have been tested.FSEARCHwas able to find the correct translation and orientation of the search model in the crystallographic unit cell, while conventional MR procedures were unsuccessful.
Structural elucidation of a dual-activity PAP phosphatase-1 fromEntamoeba histolyticacapable of hydrolysing both 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphate and inositol 1,4-bisphosphate
Authors: Faisal Tarique Khaja , Arif Abdul Rehman Syed , Gourinath S.
Published: June 2014

The enzyme 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphatase-1 (PAP phosphatase-1) is a member of the Li+-sensitive Mg2+-dependent phosphatase superfamily, or inositol monophosphatase (IMPase) superfamily, and is an important regulator of the sulfate-activation pathway in all living organisms. Inhibition of this enzyme leads to accumulation of the toxic byproduct 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphate (PAP), which could be lethal to the organism. Genomic analysis ofEntamoeba histolyticasuggests the presence of two isoforms of PAP phosphatase. The PAP phosphatase-1 isoform of this organism is shown to be active over wide ranges of pH and temperature. Interestingly, this enzyme is inhibited by submillimolar concentrations of Li+, while being insensitive to Na+. Interestingly, the enzyme showed activity towards both PAP and inositol 1,4-bisphosphate and behaved as an inositol polyphosphate 1-phosphatase. Crystal structures of this enzyme in its native form and in complex with adenosine 5′-monophosphate have been determined to 2.1 and 2.6 Å resolution, respectively. The PAP phosphatase-1 structure is divided into two domains, namely α+β and α/β, and the substrate and metal ions bind between them. This is a first structure of any PAP phosphatase to be determined from a human parasitic protozoan. This enzyme appears to function using a mechanism involving three-metal-ion assisted catalysis. Comparison with other structures indicates that the sensitivity to alkali-metal ions may depend on the orientation of a specific catalytic loop.
Specific binding of gibberellic acid by Cytokinin-Specific Binding Proteins: a new aspect of plant hormone-binding proteins with the PR-10 fold
Authors: Ruszkowski Milosz , Sliwiak Joanna , Ciesielska Agnieszka , Barciszewski Jakub , Sikorski Michal , Jaskolski Mariusz
Published: June 2014

Pathogenesis-related proteins of class 10 (PR-10) are a family of plant proteins with the same fold characterized by a large hydrophobic cavity that allows them to bind various ligands, such as phytohormones. A subfamily with only ∼20% sequence identity but with a conserved canonical PR-10 fold have previously been recognized as Cytokinin-Specific Binding Proteins (CSBPs), although structurally the binding mode oftrans-zeatin (a cytokinin phytohormone) was found to be quite diversified. Here, it is shown that two CSBP orthologues fromMedicago truncatulaandVigna radiatabind gibberellic acid (GA3), which is an entirely different phytohormone, in a conserved and highly specific manner. In both cases a single GA3 molecule is found in the internal cavity of the protein. The structural data derived from high-resolution crystal structures are corroborated by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), which reveals a much stronger interaction with GA3 than withtrans-zeatin and pH dependence of the binding profile. As a conclusion, it is postulated that the CSBP subfamily of plant PR-10 proteins should be more properly linked with general phytohormone-binding properties and termed phytohormone-binding proteins (PhBP).
Structure of the periplasmic copper-binding protein CueP fromSalmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium. Corrigendum
Authors: Yoon Bo-Young , Kim Yong-Hak , Kim Nahee , Yun Bo-Young , Kim Jin-Sik , Lee Joon-Hee , Cho Hyun-Soo , Lee Kangseok , Ha Nam-Chul
Published: June 2014

The affiliation of two of the authors of Yoonet al.[(2013). D69, 1867–1875] is corrected.
A national survey (NAP5‐Ireland baseline) to estimate an annual incidence of accidental awareness during general anaesthesia in Ireland
Authors: Jonker W. R. , Hanumanthiah D. , O'Sullivan E. P. , Cook T. M. , Pandit J. J. ,   the 5th National Audit Project (NAP5) of the Royal College of Anaesthetists and the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland, and the College of Anaesthetists of Ireland
Published: June 2014

As part of the 5th National Audit Project of the Royal College of Anaesthetists and the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland concerning accidental awareness during general anaesthesia, we issued a questionnaire to every consultant anaesthetist in each of 46 public hospitals in Ireland, represented by 41 local co‐ordinators. The survey ascertained the number of new cases of accidental awareness becoming known to them for patients under their care or supervision for a calendar year, as well as their career experience. Consultants from all hospitals responded, with an individual response rate of 87% (299 anaesthetists). There were eight new cases of accidental awareness that became known to consultants in 2011; an estimated incidence of 1:23 366. Two out of the eight cases (25%) occurred at or after induction of anaesthesia, but before surgery; four cases (50%) occurred during surgery; and two cases (25%) occurred after surgery was complete, but before full emergence. Four cases were associated with pain or distress (50%), one after an experience at induction and three after experiences during surgery. There were no formal complaints or legal actions that arose in 2011 related to awareness. Depth of anaesthesia monitoring was reported to be available in 33 (80%) departments, and was used by 184 consultants (62%), 18 (6%) routinely. None of the 46 hospitals had a policy to prevent or manage awareness. Similar to the results of a larger survey in the UK, the disparity between the incidence of awareness as known to anaesthetists and that reported in trials warrants explanation. Compared with UK practice, there appears to be greater use of depth of anaesthesia monitoring in Ireland, although this is still infrequent.
Numerical Simulation of Flow Behavior within a Venturi Scrubber
Authors: Toledo-Melchor M. M. , Gutiérrez-Torres C. del C. , Jiménez-Bernal J. A. , Barbosa-Saldaña J. G. , Martínez-Delgadillo S. A. , Mollinedo-Ponce de León H. R. , Yoguéz-Seoane A. , Alonzo-García A.
Published: June 2014

The present work details the three‐dimensional numerical simulation of single‐phase and two‐phase flow (air‐water) in a venturi scrubber with an inlet and throat diameters of 250 and 122.5 mm, respectively. The dimensions and operating parameters correspond to industrial applications. The mass flow rate conditions were 0.483 kg/s, 0.736 kg/s, 0.861 kg/s, and 0.987 kg/s for the gas only simulation; the mass flow rate for the liquid was 0.013 kg/s and 0.038 kg/s. The gas flow was simulated in five geometries with different converging and diverging angles while the two‐phase flow was only simulated for one geometry. The results obtained were validated with experimental data obtained by other researchers. The results show that the pressure drop depends significantly on the gas flow rate and that water flow rate does not have significant effects neither on the pressure drop nor on the fluid maximum velocity within the scrubber.
Boundary Stabilization of the Wave Equation with Time‐Varying and Nonlinear Feedback
Authors: Tian Jian-Sheng , Wang Wei , Xue Fei , Cong Pei-Yong
Published: June 2014

We study the stabilization of the wave equation with variable coefficients in a bounded domain and a time‐varying and nonlinear term. By the Riemannian geometry methods and a suitable assumption of nonlinearity and the time‐varying term, we obtain the uniform decay of the energy of the system.
Stability Analysis and H∞ Output Tracking Control for Linear Systems with Time‐Varying Delays
Authors: Kim K. H. , Park M. J. , Kwon O. M. , Cha E. J.
Published: June 2014

The problem of stability analysis and H∞ output tracking control for linear systems with time‐varying delays is studied. First, by construction of a newly augmented Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional, a delay‐dependent stability criterion for nominal systems with time‐varying delays is established in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Second, based on the H∞ sense, the proposed method is extended to solve the problem of designing an H∞ output tracking controller to track the output of a given reference model. Finally, three examples are included to show the validity and effectiveness of the presented delay‐dependent stability and the H∞ output tracking controller design.
Leaching of Major and Minor Elements during the Transport and Storage of Coal Ash Obtained in Power Plant
Authors: Krgović Rada , Trifković Jelena , Milojković-Opsenica Dušanka , Manojlović Dragan , Mutić Jelena
Published: June 2014

In power plant, coal ash obtained by combustion is mixed with river water and transported to the dump. Sequential extraction was used in order to assess pollution caused by leaching of elements during ash transport through the pipeline and in the storage (cassettes). A total of 80 samples of filter ash as well as the ash from active (currently filled) and passive (previously filled) cassettes were studied. Samples were extracted with distilled water, ammonium acetate, ammonium oxalate/oxalic acid, acidic solution of hydrogen-peroxide, and a hydrochloric acid. Concentrations of the several elements (Al, As, Cd, Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Ba, Ca, Mg, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in all extracts were determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. Pattern recognition method was carried out in order to provide better understanding of the nature of distribution of elements according to their origins. Results indicate possible leaching of As, Ca, Cd, Cu, Zn, and Pb. Among these elements As, Cd, and Pb are toxicologically the most important but they were not present in the first two phases with the exception of As. The leaching could be destructive and cause negative effects on plants, water pollution, and damage to some life forms.
Practical Education Fostered by Research Projects in an Embedded Systems Course
Authors: Bonato Vanderlei , Fernandes Marcio M. , Cardoso Joao M. P. , Marques Eduardo
Published: June 2014

The very nature of universities makes them unique environments for research and teaching. Although both activities constantly borrow from each other, a deeper level of interaction is not always achieved for several reasons. This paper presents a successful experience on conducting an undergraduate course on embedded systems, based on strong interaction with related research activities previously conducted by the authors. Known for being everywhere, embedded systems are constantly expanding in both complexity and volume production. In addition, heterogeneous systems are becoming prevalent in modern applications, standing as an additional difficulty to students in this area. In this context, this paper presents experiences in teaching embedded systems using a project-based learning pedagogical approach, with strong emphasis on mobile robotic applications previously developed by MSc and PhD students. As a result, it has been observed that undergraduate students have the opportunity to build a strong background and feel better prepared to face the challenges to be found in their future professional activities.
Solving Singular Boundary Value Problems by Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Method
Authors: Zuhra S. , Islam S. , Idrees M. , Nawaz Rashid , Shah I. A. , Ullah H.
Published: June 2014

In this paper, optimal homotopy asymptotic method (OHAM) for the semianalytic solutions of nonlinear singular two-point boundary value problems has been applied to several problems. The solutions obtained by OHAM have been compared with the solutions of another method named as modified adomain decomposition (MADM). For testing the success of OHAM, both of the techniques have been analyzed against the exact solutions in all problems. It is proved by this paper that solutions of OHAM converge rapidly to the exact solution and show most effectiveness as compared to MADM.
Active Contour Model for Ultrasound Images with Rayleigh Distribution
Authors: Wang Guodong , Dong Qian , Pan Zhenkuan , Zhao Ximei , Yang Jinbao , Liu Cunliang
Published: June 2014

Ultrasound images are often corrupted by multiplicative noises with Rayleigh distribution. The noises are strong and often called speckle noise, so segmentation is a hard work with this kind of noises. In this paper, we incorporate multiplicative noise removing model into active contour model for ultrasound images segmentation. To model gray level behavior of ultrasound images, the classic Rayleigh probability distribution is considered. Our model can segment the noisy ultrasound images very well. Finally, a fast method called Split‐Bregman method is used for the easy implementation of segmentation. Experiments on a variety of synthetic and real ultrasound images validate the performance of our method.
Reduced Health‐Related Quality of Life in Body Constitutions of Yin‐Xu, and Yang‐Xu, Stasis in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Taichung Diabetic Body Constitution Study
Authors: Tsai Chia-I , Su Yi-Chang , Lin Shih-Yi , Lee I-Te , Lee Cheng-Hung , Li Tsai-Chung
Published: June 2014

Aim. To evaluate how health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) constitutions of Yin‐Xu, Yang‐Xu, and Stasis are related in type 2 diabetes patients. Method. Seven hundred and five subjects were recruited in 2010 for this study from a Diabetes Shared Care Network in Taiwan. Generic and disease‐specific HRQOL were assessed by the short form 36 (SF‐36) and the diabetes impact measurement scale (DIMS). Constitutions of Yin‐Xu, Yang‐Xu, and Stasis were then assessed by the body constitution questionnaire (BCQ), a questionnaire consisting of 44 items that evaluate the physiological state based on subjective symptoms and signs. Results. Estimated effects of the Ying‐Xu and Stasis on all scales of the SF‐36 were significantly negative, while estimated effects of the Yang‐Xu on all scales (except for SF, RE, MH, and MCS) were significantly negative. For DIMS, the estimated effects of the Ying‐Xu and Stasis on all scales were significantly negative except for Stasis on well‐being, while Yang‐Xu has a significantly negative effect only on symptoms. Conclusions. This study demonstrates that TCM constitutions of Yin‐Xu, Yang‐Xu, and Stasis are closely related to a reduction in HRQOL. These findings support the need for further research into the impact of intervention for TCM constitutions on HRQOL in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Cardioprotective Effect of the Aqueous Extract of Lavender Flower against Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Wang Dong , Guo Xin , Zhou Mingjie , Han Jichun , Han Bo , Sun Xiling
Published: June 2014

This study was conducted to evaluate the cardioprotective property of the aqueous extract of lavender flower (LFAE). The myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury of rat was prepared by Langendorff retrograde perfusion technology. The heart was preperfused with K-H solution containing LFAE for 10 min before 20 minutes global ischemia, and then the reperfusion with K-H solution was conducted for 45 min. The left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP) and the maximum up/downrate of left ventricular pressure (±dp/dtmax) were recorded by physiological recorder as the myocardial function and the myocardial infarct size was detected by TTC staining. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) activities in the effluent were measured to determine the myocardial injury degree. The superoxide anion dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in myocardial tissue were detected to determine the oxidative stress degree. The results showed that the pretreatment with LFAE significantly decreased the myocardial infarct size and also decreased the LDH, CK activities, and MDA level, while it increased the LVDP, ±dp/dtmax, SOD activities, and the coronary artery flow. Our findings indicated that LFAE could provide protection for heart against the I/R injury which may be related to the improvement of myocardial oxidative stress states.
Silicon Application Increases Drought Tolerance of Kentucky Bluegrass by Improving Plant Water Relations and Morphophysiological Functions
Authors: Saud Shah , Li Xin , Chen Yang , Zhang Lu , Fahad Shah , Hussain Saddam , Sadiq Arooj , Chen Yajun
Published: June 2014

Drought stress encumbers the growth of turfgrass principally by disrupting the plant-water relations and physiological functions. The present study was carried out to appraise the role of silicon (Si) in improving the drought tolerance in Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensisL.). Drought stress and four levels (0, 200, 400, and 800 mg L−1) of Si (Na2SiO3·9H2O) were imposed after 2 months old plants cultured under glasshouse conditions. Drought stress was found to decrease the photosynthesis, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, leaf water content, relative growth rate, water use efficiency, and turf quality, but to increase in the root/shoot and leaf carbon/nitrogen ratio. Such physiological interferences, disturbances in plant water relations, and visually noticeable growth reductions in Kentucky bluegrass were significantly alleviated by the addition of Si after drought stress. For example, Si application at 400 mg L−1significantly increased the net photosynthesis by 44%, leaf water contents by 33%, leaf green color by 42%, and turf quality by 44% after 20 days of drought stress. Si application proved beneficial in improving the performance of Kentucky bluegrass in the present study suggesting that manipulation of endogenous Si through genetic or biotechnological means may result in the development of drought resistance in grasses.
A Multitarget Land Use Change Simulation Model Based on Cellular Automata and Its Application
Authors: Yang Jun , Chen Fei , Xi Jianchao , Xie Peng , Li Chuang
Published: June 2014

Based on the analysis of the existing land use change simulation model, combined with macroland use change driving factors and microlocal land use competition, and through the application of Python language integrated technical approaches such as CA, GIS, AHP, and Markov, a multitarget land use change simulation model based on cellular automata(CA) is established. This model was applied to conduct scenario simulation of land use/cover change of the Jinzhou New District, based on 1:10000 map scale land use, planning, topography, statistics, and other data collected in the year of 1988, 2003, and 2012. The simulation results indicate the following: (1) this model can simulate the mutual transformation of multiple land use types in a relatively satisfactory way; it takes land use system as a whole and simultaneously takes the land use demand in the macrolevel and the land use suitability in the local scale into account; and (2) the simulation accuracy of the model reaches 72%, presenting higher creditability. The model is capable of providing auxiliary decision-making support for coastal regions with the analysis of the land use change driving mechanism, prediction of land use change tendencies, and establishment of land resource sustainable utilization policies.
Role of AMPKαin Skeletal Muscle Glycometabolism Regulation and Adaptation in relation to Sepsis
Authors: Zheng Xia , Xu Mi , Fang Qiang
Published: June 2014

Background.AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and the translocation of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) protein always involve disturbance of carbohydrate metabolism.Objective.To determine whether the change of blood glucose in the early stage of septic rat is associated with the alteration of AMPKαprotein expression and GLUT4 protein translocation expression.Methods.Animal models of sepsis were induced by tail vein injection of LPS in Wistar rats. The dynamic values of blood glucose within 2 hours after injection of LPS were observed. AMPKαprotein and GLUT4 protein translocation in different tissues (such as soleus muscle and extensor digitorum longus) were assessed by western blot.Results.Blood glucose levels appeared to rise at 0.5 h after injection of LPS, arrived the peak value at 1 h, then fell at 1.5 h and 2 h Animals in LPS group experienced the increase of phos-AMPKαprotein and GLUT4 protein translocation expression in soleus muscle and extensor digitorum longus.Conclusion.The dynamic change of blood glucose, represented in a form of initiative increase and subsequent decrease in the early stage of sepsis, may be related to glycometabolism disorder in the skeletal muscle, coming down to enhancement of GLUT4 translocation expression promoted by activation of AMPKα.
Mobile Learning in a Rural Medical School: Feasibility and Educational Benefits in Campus and Clinical Settings
Authors: Nestel Debra , Gray Katherine , Ng Andre , McGrail Matthew , Kotsanas George , Villanueva Elmer
Published: June 2014

Students in a new medical school were provided with laptops. This study explored the feasibility and educational benefits of mobile learning for two cohorts of students learning in two settings—university campus (first-year students) and rural clinical placements (second-year students). Evaluation involved questionnaires, focus groups (faculty and students), and document analysis. Descriptive statistics were computed. Focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed thematically. Response rates for questionnaires exceeded 84%. Compared with second-year students, significantly more first-year students (60%) took their laptops to campus daily (P=0.14) and used their laptops for more hours each day (P=0.031). All students used laptops most frequently to access the internet (85% and 97%) and applications (Microsoft Word (80% and 61%) and Microsoft PowerPoint (80% and 63%)). Focus groups with students revealed appreciation for the laptops but frustration with the initial software image. Focus groups with faculty identified enthusiasm for mobile learning but acknowledged its limitations. Physical infrastructure and information technology support influenced mobile learning. Document analysis revealed significant costs and issues with maintenance. If adequately resourced, mobile learning through university-issued laptops would be feasible and have educational benefits, including equitable access to learning resources, when and where they are needed. However, barriers remain for full implementation.
Impression Material Mass Retained in the Mucobuccal Fold
Authors: Karam Genno N. , Assaf A.
Published: June 2014

Trapped foreign bodies and tissue reactions to foreign materials are commonly encountered in the oral cavity. Traumatically introduced dental materials, instruments, or needles are the most common materials referred to in the dental literature. This paper describes an iatrogenic foreign body encapsulation in the oral mucosa, clinically appearing as5×10 mm tumor-like swelling with an intact overlying epithelium and diagnosed as a polymeric impression material. Detailed case history and, clinical and radiographic examinations including CBCT and spectrometric analysis of the retrieved sample were necessary to determine accurately the nature, size, and location of the foreign body. It is suggested that the origin of the material relates to an impression made 2 years ago, leaving a mass trapped in a traumatized mucosal tissue.
Solving the Fuzzy BiLevel Linear Programming with Multiple Followers through Structured Element Method
Authors: Deng Shengyue , Zhou Liqian , Wang Xinfan
Published: June 2014

The optimal solution of fuzzy bilevel linear programming with multiple followers (MFFBLP) model is shown to be equivalent to the optimal solution of the bilevel linear programming with multiple followers by using fuzzy structured element theory. The optimal solution to this model is found out by adopting the Kuhn‐Tucker approach. Finally, an illustrative numerical example for this model is also provided to demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed method.
Magnetohydrodynamic Stagnation Flow and Heat Transfer toward a Stretching Permeable Cylinder
Authors: Mastroberardino Antonio , Siddique J. I.
Published: June 2014

We perform an analysis of MHD flow and heat transfer on a stretching, permeable cylinder. We prove existence of solutions for all values of the relevant parameters and provide uniqueness results in the case of a monotonic solution. The nonlinear boundary value problem that is derived from a similarity transformation of the governing system of nonlinear partial differential equations is solved numerically and the results are presented with graphs and tables.
Accurate Solution of Navigation Equations in GPS Receivers for Very High Velocities Using Pseudorange Measurements
Authors: Rahemi N. , Mosavi M. R. , Abedi A. A. , Mirzakuchaki S.
Published: June 2014

GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that is able to determine the exact position of objects on the Earth, sky, or space. By increasing the velocity of a moving object, the accuracy of positioning decreases; meanwhile, the calculation of the exact position in the movement by high velocities like airplane movement or very high velocities like satellite movement is so important. In this paper, seven methods for solving navigation equations in very high velocities using least squares method and its combination with the variance estimation methods for weighting observations based on their qualities are studied. Simulations on different data with different velocities from 100 m/s to 7000 m/s show that proposed method can improve the accuracy of positioning more than 50%.
Chemical Characterization of Fruit Wine Made from Oblačinska Sour Cherry
Authors: Pantelić Milica , Dabić Dragana , Matijašević Saša , Davidović Sonja , Dojčinović Biljana , Milojković-Opsenica Dušanka , Tešić Živoslav , Natić Maja
Published: June 2014

This paper was aimed at characterizing the wine obtained from Oblačinska, a native sour cherry cultivar. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper with the most comprehensive information on chemical characterization of Oblačinska sour cherry wine. The chemical composition was characterized by hyphenated chromatographic methods and traditional analytical techniques. A total of 24 compounds were quantified using the available standards and another 22 phenolic compounds were identified based on the accurate mass spectrographic search. Values of total phenolics content, total anthocyanin content, and radical scavenging activity for cherry wine sample were 1.938 mg gallic acid eqv L−1, 0.113 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside L−1, and 34.56%, respectively. In general, cherry wine polyphenolics in terms of nonanthocyanins and anthocyanins were shown to be distinctive when compared to grape wines. Naringenin and apigenin were characteristic only for cherry wine, and seven anthocyanins were distinctive for cherry wine.
Optimal Design of Complex Passive-Damping Systems for Vibration Control of Large Structures: An Energy-to-Peak Approach
Authors: Palacios-Quiñonero Francisco , Rubió-Massegú Josep , Rossell Josep M. , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: June 2014

We present a new design strategy that makes it possible to synthesize decentralized output-feedback controllers by solving two successive optimization problems with linear matrix inequality (LMI) constraints. In the initial LMI optimization problem, two auxiliary elements are computed: a standard state-feedback controller, which can be taken as a reference in the performance assessment, and a matrix that facilitates a proper definition of the main LMI optimization problem. Next, by solving the second optimization problem, the output-feedback controller is obtained. The proposed strategy extends recent results in static output-feedback control and can be applied to design complex passive-damping systems for vibrational control of large structures. More precisely, by taking advantages of the existing link between fully decentralized velocity-feedback controllers and passive linear dampers, advanced active feedback control strategies can be used to design complex passive-damping systems, which combine the simplicity and robustness of passive control systems with the efficiency of active feedback control. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach, a passive-damping system for the seismic protection of a five-story building is designed with excellent results.
Giant Endometrial Polyp in a Postmenopausal Woman without Hormone/Drug Use and Vaginal Bleeding
Authors: Ünal Betül , Doğan Selen , Karaveli Fatma Şeyda , Şimşek Tayup , Erdoğan Gülgün , Candaner Işıl
Published: June 2014

The objective of this study is to determine and discuss the causes of a giant endometrial polyp in a postmenopausal woman without hormone/drug use and to submit interesting clinical presentation. Here we report a seventy-year-old female patient who was admitted to our hospital with lower back pain. There were no other complaints from her. Physical examination was normal. For further examination, computed tomography was performed and a heterogeneous mass, with a diameter of 10×9 centimeters, was detected in the uterine cavity. Hysterectomy because of suspected endometrial cancer was performed. Histopathological examination showed us a giant endometrial polyp with edematous and focal fibrotic stroma, large thick walled blood vessels between normal sized and cystically dilated endometrial glands. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a giant endometrial polyp which is unrelated to use of drugs such as tamoxifen and raloxifene; however, based on the history of the patient it may be associated with long-term consumption of thyme, which is a kind of phytoestrogen.
Transient Flows of Newtonian Fluid through a Rectangular Microchannel with Slip Boundary
Authors: Wiwatanapataphee Benchawan , Wu Yong Hong , Suharsono Suharsono
Published: June 2014

We study the transient flow of a Newtonian fluid in rectangular microchannels taking into account boundary slip. An exact solution is derived by using the separation of variables in space and Fourier series expansion in time. It is found that, for different forms of driving pressure field, the effect of boundary slip on the flow behavior is qualitatively different. If the pressure gradient is constant, the flow rate is almost linearly proportional to the slip parameterlwhenlis large; if the pressure gradient is in a waveform, as the slip parameterlincreases, the amplitude of the flow rate increases until approaching a constant value whenlbecomes sufficiently large.
An Adaptive Maintenance Model Oriented to Process Environment of the Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Gong Xun , Feng Yixiong , Zheng Hao , Tan Jianrong
Published: June 2014

We explored an adaptive maintenance model of the process environment to diagnose progressive faults in manufacturing systems. Progressive faults are usually caused by deterioration of the operating environment or aging and show stochastic properties. Many researchers have reported how to detect faults on the machine body in manufacturing systems. However, little research has been conducted on the process environment which causes progressive faults. To tackle this problem, we explored an adaptive maintenance model to detect progressive faults and repair the process environment on the E‐repair location. When a difference of the environmental factor state is detected, it will combine the transcription factor and the state enzyme to locate fault source. Then the comprehensive maintenance program is derived to repair the operating environment while eliminating progressive faults. For the purpose of validation, this model was implemented on the process environment of the air separation plant. And the simulation experiments validated the feasibility and effectiveness of this method.
From Maximization to Optimization: A Paradigm Shift in Rice Production in Thailand to Improve Overall Quality of Life of Stakeholders
Authors: Doi Ryoichi , Pitiwut Supachai
Published: June 2014

The concept of crop yield maximization has been widely supported. In practice, however, yield maximization does not necessarily lead to maximum socioeconomic welfare. Optimization is therefore necessary to ensure quality of life of farmers and other stakeholders. In Thailand, a rice farmers' network has adopted a promising agricultural system aimed at the optimization of rice farming. Various feasible techniques were flexibly combined. The new system offers technical strengths and minimizes certain difficulties with which the rice farmers once struggled. It has resulted in fairly good yields of up to 8.75 t ha−1or yield increases of up to 57% (from 4.38 to 6.88 t ha−1). Under the optimization paradigm, the farmers have established diversified sustainable relationships with the paddy fields in terms of ecosystem management through their own self-motivated scientific observations. The system has resulted in good health conditions for the farmers and villagers, financial security, availability of extra time, and additional opportunities and freedom and hence in the improvement of their overall quality of life. The underlying technical and social mechanisms are discussed herein.
A Comparison between Gadofosveset Trisodium and Gadobenate Dimeglumine for Steady State MRA of the Thoracic Vasculature
Authors: Camren G. Paul , Wilson Gregory J. , Bamra Vikram R. , Nguyen Khahn Q. , Hippe Daniel S. , Maki Jeffrey H.
Published: June 2014

Purpose. Retrospective comparison between gadofosveset trisodium and gadobenate dimeglumine steady state magnetic resonance angiography (SS-MRA) of the thoracic vasculature at 1.5T using signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and vessel edge sharpness (ES) as markers of image quality.Materials and Methods. IRB approval was obtained. Twenty separate patients each underwent SS-MRA using high-resolution 3D ECG-triggered coronal IR-TFE at 1.5T approximately 3-4 minutes following 10 or 15 mL gadofosveset or 20 mL gadobenate. ROIs were placed in the right atrium, left ventricle, left atrium, ascending aorta, descending aorta, and right pulmonary artery to estimate SNR. Vessel ES was estimated as 20–80% rise distances from line intensity profiles in the left pulmonary vein, ascending aorta, and descending aorta. Data were analyzed using nonpaired Student’st-test (threshold for significance set atP<0.05).Results. There was no significant difference in mean SNR for the gadofosveset or gadobenate groups (Pvalues: 0.14 to 0.85). There was no significant difference in mean vessel ES for gadofosveset and gadobenate groups (Pvalues: 0.17 to 0.78).Conclusion. High quality thoracic SS-MRA can be achieved with gadobenate dimeglumine, similar to that achieved with the blood pool agent gadofosveset trisodium provided that imaging is initiated quickly (3-4 min) after contrast injection.
Decreased Neuronal Bursting and Phase Synchrony in the Hippocampus of Streptozotocin Diabetic Rats
Authors: Qiao Zhimei , Xie Kangning , Liu Kai , Li Guoliang
Published: June 2014

Diabetic encephalopathy is one of the complications of diabetes. Cognitive dysfunction is the main consequence. Previous findings from neuroanatomical andin vitroelectrophysiological studies showed that the structure and function of the hippocampus is impaired in diabetes, which may underlie the cognitive dysfunction induced by diabetes. However the study of electrophysiological abnormality of hippocampal neurons in intact networks is sparse. In the current study, we recorded the spontaneous firing of neurons in hippocampal CA1 area in anesthetized streptozotozin (STZ)-diabetic and age-matched control rats. Profound reduction in burst activity was found in diabetic rats. Compared to control rats, the intra-burst inter-spike intervals were prolonged significantly in diabetic rats, while the burst ratio and the mean number of spikes within a burst decreased significantly. Treatment with APP 17-mer peptide retarded the effects of diabetes on these parameters. In addition, the average PLV of diabetic rats was lower than that of control rats. These findings providein vivoelectrophysiological evidence for the impairment of hippocampal function in STZ-diabetic rats, and may have some implications in the mechanisms associated with cognitive deficits in diabetes.
Study on Liquid Turbulence Modulation by Microbubbles in Different Turbulence Layers
Authors: Pang Mingjun , Wei Jinjia , Yu Bo
Published: June 2014

Bubbly flows exist extensively in industrial processes. To enhance efficiencies of industrial processes, it is very necessary and important to understand detailedly mechanisms of liquid turbulence modulation by bubbles. To understand mechanisms of the liquid turbulence modulation by microbubbles, an Euler-Lagrange two-way model was used to investigate and analyze deeply the liquid turbulence modulation by microbubbles in the subviscous, buffer, and outer layers, respectively. The present results show that the liquid turbulence modulation by microbubbles is related to microbubble locations; the liquid turbulence is intensified when microbubbles are in the outer layers, whereas the liquid turbulence is suppressed when microbubbles are in the subviscous and buffer layer; and the drag reduction occurs only when microbubbles are in the buffer layer.
The Effect of a Nurse-Led Multidisciplinary Team on Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Rates
Authors: Dosher W. Bradley , Loomis Elena C. , Richardson Sherry L. , Crowell Jennifer A. , Waltman Richard D. , Miller Lisa D. , Nazim Muhammad , Khasawneh Faisal A.
Published: June 2014

Background. Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a worrisome, yet potentially preventable threat in critically ill patients. Evidence-based clinical practices targeting the prevention of VAP have proven effective, but the most optimal methods to ensure consistent implementation and compliance remain unknown.Methods. A retrospective study of the trend in VAP rates in a community-hospital’s open medical intensive care unit (MICU) after the enactment of a nurse-led VAP prevention team. The period of the study was between April 1, 2009, and September 30, 2012. The team rounded on mechanically ventilated patients every Tuesday and Thursday. They ensured adherence to the evidence-based VAP prevention. A separate and independent infection control team monitored VAP rates.Results. Across the study period, mean VAP rate was 3.20/1000 ventilator days ±5.71 SD. Throughout the study time frame, there was an average monthly reduction in VAP rate of 0.27/1000 ventilator days,P<0.001(CI: −0.40–−0.13).Conclusion. A nurse-led interdisciplinary team dedicated to VAP prevention rounding twice a week to ensure adherence with a VAP prevention bundle lowered VAP rates in a community-hospital open MICU. The team had interdepartmental and administrative support and addressed any deficiencies in the VAP prevention bundle components actively.
Antimicrobial Effect of the Triterpene 3β,6β,16β-Trihydroxylup-20(29)-ene on Planktonic Cells and Biofilms from Gram Positive and Gram Negative Bacteria
Authors: Evaristo Francisco Flávio Vasconcelos , Albuquerque Maria Rose Jane R. , dos Santos Hélcio Silva , Bandeira Paulo Nogueira , Ávila Fábio do Nascimento , da Silva Bruno Rocha , Vasconcelos Ariana Azevedo , Rabelo Érica de Menezes , Nascimento-Neto Luiz Gonzaga , Arruda Francisco Vassiliepe Sousa , Vasconcelos Mayron Alves , Carneiro Victor Alves , Cavada Benildo Sousa , Teixeira Edson Holanda
Published: June 2014

This study evaluated the antimicrobial effect of 3β,6β,16β-trihydroxylup-20(29)-ene (CLF1), a triterpene isolated fromCombretum leprosumMart., in inhibiting the planktonic growth and biofilms of Gram positive bacteriaStreptococcus mutansandS. mitis. The antimicrobial activity was assessed by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). The antibiofilm potential was determined by quantifying total biomass and enumerating biofilm-entrapped viable bacteria. In addition, the acute toxicity of CLF1 onArtemiasp. nauplii was also determined. The results showed that CLF1 was able in inhibiting the growth ofS. mutansandS. mitiswith MIC and MBC of 7.8 μg/mL and 15.6 μg/mL, respectively. CLF1 was highly effective on biofilms of both bacteria. Only 7.8 μg/mL CLF1 was enough to inhibit by 97% and 90% biomass production ofS. mutansandS. mitis, respectively. On the other hand, such effects were not evident on Gram negativePseudomonas aeruginosaandKlebsiella oxytoca. The toxicity tests showed that the LC50of CLF1 was 98.19 μg/mL. Therefore, CLF1 isolated fromC. leprosummay constitute an important natural agent for the development of new therapies for caries and other infectious diseases caused byS. mutansandS. mitis.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease in a Child with Sickle Cell Anemia
Authors: Alqoaer Khaled , Ahmed Mohammed M. , Alhowaiti Efteraj S.
Published: June 2014

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a chronic haemoglobinopathy that can affect many organs in the body including gastrointestinal tract. However, colonic involvement is very rare and usually in the form of ischemic colitis. We are reporting an 11-year-old Saudi girl with SCA who presented with persistent diarrhea and was found to have inflammaftory bowel disease.
Initial Sliding Wear Kinetics of Two Types of Glass Ionomer Cement: A Tribological Study
Authors: Villat Cyril , Ponthiaux Pierre , Pradelle-Plasse Nelly , Grosgogeat Brigitte , Colon Pierre
Published: June 2014

The aim of this work was to characterize the initial wear kinetics of two different types of glass ionomer cement used in dentistry (the conventional glass ionomer cement and the resin-modified glass ionomer cement) under sliding friction after 28-day storing in distilled water or Ringer’s solution. Sliding friction was applied through a pin-on-disk tribometer, in sphere-on-plane contact conditions, under 5 N normal load and 120 rotations per minute. The test lasted 7500 cycles and replicas were performed at 2500, 5000 and 7500 cycles. A profilometer was used to evaluate the wear volume. Data were analysed using Student’st-test at a significant level of 5%. There is no statistical significant difference between the results obtained for a given material with the maturation media (P>0.05). However, for a given maturation medium, there are significant statistical differences between the data obtained for the two materials at each measurement (P<0.0001). The wear rates of both materials decrease continuously during the running-in period between 0 and 2500 cycles. After 2500 cycles, the wear rate becomes constant and equal for both materials. The resin matrix contained in the resin-modified glass ionomer cement weakens the tribological behaviour of this material.
The Functional Difference of Dendritic Cells in HBeAg Negative Chronic Hepatitis B Patients with Three Different Spleen Deficiency Syndromes and the Therapeutic Evaluation of Chinese Medicine Intervention Based on Syndrome Differentiation
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhang Li , Feng Xiaoxia , Xing Lianjun , Zhang Wei , Jiang Kaiping , Song Haiyan , Ji Guang
Published: June 2014

Objective. To investigate the dendritic cells (DCs) maturity differences of HBeAg negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with different spleen deficiency (SD) syndromes and explore the role of syndrome differentiation in the therapeutic evaluation of Chinese medicine. Methods. 120 participants were recruited including three treatment groups in different SD syndrome categories as spleen deficiency with liver depression (SDLD), spleen deficiency with damp heat (SDDH), and spleen deficiency with kidney deficiency (SDKD) and one healthy control group; each group had 30 participants. Corresponding drugs were applied. The outcome measures included DC phenotype, liver function, IL‐10, IL‐12, and HBV‐DNA levels. Results. The surface markers of mature DCs and cytokines levels were different in each group; the positive rate of CD80, CD1a, HLA‐DR, and CD1a was the lowest in SDKD group. After 3‐month intervention, the expression of CD80, CD86, CD1a, HLA‐DR, and IL‐12 significantly increased, while ALT, AST, and IL‐10 significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in treatment groups. HBV‐DNA level also significantly reduced in both SDKD and SDLD groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions. HBeAg negative patients had DCs dysmaturity, and there were differences between different SD syndromes. Chinese medicine intervention according to syndrome differentiation could advance the maturity and function of DCs and improve the therapeutic effect.
Reliable Fault Classification of Induction Motors Using Texture Feature Extraction and a Multiclass Support Vector Machine
Authors: Uddin Jia , Kang Myeongsu , Nguyen Dinh V. , Kim Jong-Myon
Published: June 2014

This paper proposes a method for the reliable fault detection and classification of induction motors using two‐dimensional (2D) texture features and a multiclass support vector machine (MCSVM). The proposed model first converts time‐domain vibration signals to 2D gray images, resulting in texture patterns (or repetitive patterns), and extracts these texture features by generating the dominant neighborhood structure (DNS) map. The principal component analysis (PCA) is then used for the purpose of dimensionality reduction of the high‐dimensional feature vector including the extracted texture features due to the fact that the high‐dimensional feature vector can degrade classification performance, and this paper configures an effective feature vector including discriminative fault features for diagnosis. Finally, the proposed approach utilizes the one‐against‐all (OAA) multiclass support vector machines (MCSVMs) to identify induction motor failures. In this study, the Gaussian radial basis function kernel cooperates with OAA MCSVMs to deal with nonlinear fault features. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach outperforms three state‐of‐the‐art fault diagnosis algorithms in terms of fault classification accuracy, yielding an average classification accuracy of 100% even in noisy environments.
Effect of Thermophysical Properties on Coupled Heat and Mass Transfer in Porous Material during Forced Convective Drying
Authors: Cai Wei , Zhu Lexian , Dong Shilin , Xie Guozhen , Li Junming
Published: June 2014

The convective drying kinetics of porous medium was investigated numerically. A mathematical model for forced convective drying was established to estimate the evolution of moisture content and temperature inside multilayered porous medium. The set of coupled partial differential equations with the specified boundary and initial conditions were solved numerically using a MATLAB code. An experimental setup of convective drying had been constructed and validated the theoretical model. The temperature and moisture content of the potato samples were dynamically measured and recorded during the drying process. Results indicate that thermal diffusion coefficient has significant positive impact on temperature distribution and mass diffusion coefficient might directly affect the moisture content distribution. Soret effect has a significant impact on heat flux and temperature distribution in the presence of large temperature gradient.