bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photons in a cold axion background and strong magnetic fields: Polarimetric consequences
Authors: Espriu Domènec , Renau Albert
Published: June 2015

In this work, we analyze the propagation of photons in an environment where a strong magnetic field (perpendicular to the photon momenta) coexists with an oscillating cold axion background with the characteristics expected from dark matter in the galactic halo. Qualitatively, the main effect of the combined background is to produce a three-way mixing among the two photon polarizations and the axion. It is interesting to note that in spite of the extremely weak interaction of photons with the cold axion background, its effects compete with those coming from the magnetic field in some regions of the parameter space. We determine (with one plausible simplification) the proper frequencies and eigenvectors as well as the corresponding photon ellipticity and induced rotation of the polarization plane that depend both on the magnetic field and the local density of axions. We also comment on the possibility that some of the predicted effects could be measured in optical table-top experiments.
Efficient FTL-Aware Data Categorization and Identification Scheme for Flash Memory
Authors: Ayele Sololia Gudeta , Jin Rize , Kwon Se Jin , Attique Muhammad , Chung Tae-Sung
Published: June 2015

Hot data identification in flash memory is of great interest because it significantly affects the garbage collection and wear-leveling performance. Presently, certain hot and cold data classification schemes based on Bloom filters (BFs) have been proposed. Although BFs are efficient in most cases, there is a significant trade-off between false positive rates, which are the result of hash value collisions and memory utilization. In this paper, we suggest a better data categorization mechanism that is based on a hashing technique called Fingerprinting by Random Polynomials with the aim of reducing false positive rates and achieving lower memory consumption compared to the BF-based schemes. We also introduce a new methodology for classifying write requests by linking the definition of hot and cold write requests to the flash memory software layer, the flash translation layer (FTL) characteristics. Our approach improves space utilization by representing each logical block number (lbn) by one counter in the hash table, and achieves an extremely low error rate by choosing the degree of the hash function based on the address space of the flash memory. In addition, we achieved lower false identification rates. We demonstrate the performance using mathematical analysis and trace-driven simulation.
A Quantitative Analysis on Semantic Relations of Data Blocks in Storage Systems
Authors: Chen Yunliang , Li Fangyuan , Du Bo , Fan Junqing , Deng Ze
Published: June 2015

In a big data era, there are and will be more demands and higher requirements for data organization and management in the storage system. Previous studies on semantic relations of blocks have set an essential theoretical basis in storage systems. Revealing semantic relationship of blocks has great scientific values and indicates a promising prospect in the application. However, only qualitative description of block correlations has been obtained by traditional ways, and few researches have been done on unifying and quantizing the blocks semantic relationships.

In this paper, an uniform design-aided gene expression programming (UGEP) method has been proposed to address this issue. After analyzing historical access streams, a quantitative description system on semantic relationship of blocks is established. The semantic relationship of blocks can also be used in prefetching in storage system, which means the next access block can be calculated by the prefetching model. Simulation tests in four real system traces indicate that compared with sequential prefetching and no prefetching model, the quantitative semantic relationships model based on UGEP can highly improve the performance of the storage system. The experimental results show that in Cello-92 cases, compared with no prefetching method and sequential prefetching method, prefetching based on UGEP can reduce average I/O response time by 23.7% and 17.9%, and hit ratio is also increased by 16% and 8% as well.
Visualized Awareness Support for Collaborative Software Development on Mobile Devices
Authors: Chen Meng-Yao , Chen Cong , Liu Shu-Qing , Zhang Kang
Published: June 2015

To foster innovation and competition, an increasing number of software teams are becoming distributed. Such a distribution makes continuous collaboration and continuous awareness support a necessity and also a great challenge. Traditional desktop-based approaches are insufficient for the requirements of continuous awareness. In software development practice, an awareness tool on mobile devices is also desirable for team members to obtain the awareness information continuously. This paper addresses how to effectively present collaborative development activities using aesthetic visualization on mobile screens. Our approach supports multiple views suitable for software developers as well as team leaders. A baseline usability experiment and an eye-tracking experiment have evaluated the effectiveness and usability of the visualization method.
Using Your Fingers to Think: Enabling Subjective Routing with a Rubber Band Metaphor
Authors: Bennett Andrew , D'Orazio Matthew , Lueg Christopher
Published: June 2015

There is a class of complex problems where solutions must satisfy multiple subjective criteria, while meeting specific quantifiable constraints. Route planning for leisurely travel is an example of a problem in this class. Constraints including total available time, transit times, and one's budget and subjective interests determine whether a potential solution is acceptable to a prospective traveler.

In this paper we present a route planning (routing) interface that metaphorically leverages various elastic properties of a rubber band to allow for playful interaction with the relevant constraints. Each of these properties — attenuation, tension, and color — were integrated into an experimental system and then investigated in a series of task-based evaluations.

Our research shows this playful interaction enables potential travelers to explore the solution space in order to find a route that meets, not only the easily quantifiable constraints, but also their own subjective preferences.
Multiscale space–time methods for thermo-fluid analysis of a ground vehicle and its tires
Authors: Takizawa Kenji , Tezduyar Tayfun E. , Kuraishi Takashi
Published: June 2015

We present the core and special multiscale space–time (ST) methods we developed for thermo-fluid analysis of a ground vehicle and its tires. We also present application of these methods to thermo-fluid analysis of a freight truck and its rear set of tires. The core multiscale ST method is the ST variational multiscale (ST-VMS) formulation of the Navier–Stokes equations of incompressible flows with thermal coupling, which is multiscale in the way the small-scale thermo-fluid behavior is represented in the computations. The special multiscale ST method is spatially multiscale, where the thermo-fluid computation over the global domain with a reasonable mesh refinement is followed by a higher-resolution computation over the local domain containing the rear set of tires, with the boundary and initial conditions coming from the data computed over the global domain. The large amount of time-history data from the global computation is stored using the ST computation technique with continuous representation in time (ST-C), which serves as a data compression technique in this context. In our thermo-fluid analysis, we use a road-surface temperature higher than the free-stream temperature, and a tire-surface temperature that is even higher. We also include in the analysis the heat from the engine and exhaust system, with a reasonably realistic representation of the rate by which that heat transfer takes place as well as the surface geometry of the engine and exhaust system over which the heat transfer occurs. We take into account the heave motion of the truck body. We demonstrate how the spatially multiscale ST method, with higher-refinement mesh in the local domain, substantially increases the accuracy of the computed heat transfer rates from the tires.
Residual-based turbulence models and arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian framework for free surface flows
Authors: Calderer Ramon , Zhu Lixing , Gibson Richard , Masud Arif
Published: June 2015

We present a residual-based turbulence model for problems with free surfaces. The method is derived based on variational multiscale ideas that assume a decomposition of the solution fields into overlapping scales that are termed as coarse and fine scales. The fine scales are further split hierarchically into fine-scales level-I and fine-scales level-II. The hierarchical variational problems that govern the two fine-scale components are modeled employing bubble functions approach. The model for level-II scales is variationally embedded in the mixed field level-I problem to yield a stable level-I formulation. Subsequently, the model for level-I scales that in fact constitutes the fine-scale turbulence model is then variationally injected in the coarse-scale variational form. A significant feature of the method is that it does not contain any embedded tunable parameters. To accommodate the moving boundaries we cast the formulation in an arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian frame of reference. The free surface boundary condition is imposed weakly which results in a formulation that conserves the volume of the fluid. A variety of benchmark problems show the accuracy and range of applicability of the proposed formulation and results are compared with published data. A wavy bed problem is investigated to show the interaction of turbulence generated at the bottom surface with the free surface thereby leading to irregular free surface elevations.
Aerodynamic shape optimization using stabilized finite element method
Authors: Mittal Sanjay , Bhatt Varun , Srinath D. N.
Published: June 2015

An algorithm for aerodynamic shape optimization using a gradient-based approach is presented. A stabilized finite element method is utilized to solve the equations governing the fluid flow and adjoint variables. The effectiveness of the method in finding nontrivial designs that satisfy the posed objectives and constraints is demonstrated. It is shown that the initial guess plays an important role in the optimal solution that is realized. Shapes of bumps that are associated with a specified volume, lift and drag are determined and presented. The method is applied to design of airfoils in unsteady flows. The objective function is based on time-averaged force coefficients. The effect of enriching the design space is studied. It is shown that this being a local method, where the search direction is based on gradient of the objective function, the gradual enrichment of design space leads to superior performance. The idea is demonstrated via spontaneous appearance of corrugations on an airfoil surface during the optimization, for maximum lift, by gradually increasing the number of control points. The method is extended to three dimensions. Its application is demonstrated via optimization of the planform of a finite wing for maximum lift-to-drag ratio. A bi-parametric tensorial NURBS (non-uniform rational bi-cubic spline) surface is interpolated on a 3D control net to represent a wing surface. It is shown that for low Reynolds number, it is possible to design a planform that is more efficient than an ellipse. Unlike the elliptic planform, the optimal wing computed by the present method, is associated with a short winglet-like structure at the wing-tip and the maximum chord length at around mid-span.
Space–time VMS method for flow computations with slip interfaces (ST-SI)
Authors: Takizawa Kenji , Tezduyar Tayfun E. , Mochizuki Hiroki , Hattori Hitoshi , Mei Sen , Pan Linqi , Montel Kenneth
Published: June 2015

We present the space–time variational multiscale (ST-VMS) method for flow computations with slip interfaces (ST-SI). The method is intended for fluid–structure interaction (FSI) analysis where one or more of the subdomains contain spinning structures, such as the rotor of a wind turbine, and the subdomains are covered by meshes that do not match at the interface and have slip between them. The mesh covering a subdomain with the spinning structure spins with it, thus maintaining the high-resolution representation of the boundary layers near the structure. The starting point in the development of the method is the version of the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian VMS (ALE-VMS) method designed for computations with "sliding interfaces". Interface terms similar to those in the ALE-VMS version are added to the ST-VMS formulation to account for the compatibility conditions for the velocity and stress. In addition to having a high-resolution representation of the boundary layers, because the ST framework allows NURBS functions in temporal representation of the structure motion, we have exact representation of the circular paths associated with the spinning. The ST-SI method includes versions for cases where the SI is between fluid and solid domains with weakly-imposed Dirichlet conditions for the fluid and for cases where the SI is between a thin porous structure and the fluid on its two sides. Test computations with 2D and 3D models of a vertical-axis wind turbine show the effectiveness of the ST-SI method.
THERMAL DIFFUSION DYNAMIC BEHAVIOR OF TWO-DIMENSIONAL Ag-SMALL CLUSTERS ON Ag(1 1 1) SURFACE
Authors: ZAKIRUR-REHMAN  , HAYAT SARDAR SIKANDAR
Published: June 2015

In this paper, the thermal diffusion behavior of small two-dimensional Ag -islands on Ag (1 1 1) surface has been explored using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The approach is based on semi-empirical potentials. The key microscopic processes responsible for the diffusion of Ag 1−5 adislands on Ag (1 1 1) surface are identified. The hopping and zigzag concerted motion along with rotation are observed for Ag one-atom to three-atom islands while single-atom and multi-atom processes are revealed for Ag four-atom and five-atom islands, during the diffusion on Ag (1 1 1) surface. The same increasing/decreasing trend in the diffusion coefficient and effective energy barrier is observed in both the self learning kinetic Monte Carlo (SLKMC) and MD calculations, for the temperature range of 300–700 K. An increase in the value of effective energy barrier is noticed with corresponding increase in the number of atoms in Ag -adislands. A reasonable linear fit is observed for the diffusion coefficient for studied temperatures (300, 500 and 700 K). For the observed diffusion mechanisms, our findings are in good agreement with ab initio density-functional theory (DFT) calculations for Al / Al (1 1 1) while the energy barrier values are in same range as the experimental values for Cu / Ag (1 1 1) and the theoretical values using ab initio DFT supplemented with embedded-atom method for Ag / Ag (1 1 1).
Multiscale Joint Symbolic Transfer Entropy for Quantification of Causal Interactions Between Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Variability Under Postural Stress
Authors: Singh A. , Saini B. S. , Singh D.
Published: June 2015

In this paper, joint symbolic transfer entropy (JSTE) is explored to quantify causal interactions between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and RR intervals (peak-to-peak distance between consecutive R-peaks) at multiple time scales. SBP→RR coupling (C s-r ) and RR→SBP coupling (C r-s ) coupling is analyzed at multiple time scales and delays. The ability of the approach based on JSTE to detect SBP–RR causal coupling is tested on 42 healthy subjects in supine and upright position along with 21 subjects of EUROBAVAR dataset. In addition, lack of causal coupling from SBP to RR was assessed on 20 post-acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. Results demonstrate that (i) standard deviation (SD) of RR interval series and SBP series decreases with time scale τ = 1 to 10 for all types of subjects. (ii) SD in supine is more than that of upright position at each time scale irrespective of types of subjects. (iii) JSTE decreases with time delay for healthy and AMI patients but does not follow decreasing trend for baroflex sensitivity BRS failure patients. (iv) JSTE in supine position is more than that of upright position irrespective of time delay. (v) JSTE decreases with time scale for healthy and AMI patients but does not follow decreasing trend for BRS failure patients. (vi) JSTE in supine position is more than that of upright position only at finer scales. (vii) Enhanced feed-forward (FF) coupling and suppressed feedback (FB) coupling found at supine position within low frequency band (0.04–0.15 Hz) as well as high frequency band (0.151–0.4 Hz) indicated prevalence on non-baroreflex mechanisms. (viii) FB coupling recovered in the upright position which was stronger than FF coupling. Upon comparison with cross conditional entropy (CCE), it is found that JSTE provides more significant differences between supine and upright position.
On systems of fundamental units of certain quartic fields
Authors: Aoki Miho , Kishi Yasuhiro
Published: June 2015

In this article, we investigate systems of fundamental units of quartic fields which are constructed by adjoining a root of a certain parametric quartic polynomial to ℚ.
Decomposition of hypercubes into regular connected bipancyclic subgraphs
Authors: Borse Y. M. , Kandekar S. A.
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we consider the problem of decomposing the edge set of the hypercube Qn into two spanning, regular, connected, bipancyclic subgraphs. We prove that if n = n1 + n2 with n1 ≥ 2 and n2 ≥ 2, then the edge set of Qn can be decomposed into two spanning, bipancyclic subgraphs H1 and H2 such that Hi is ni-regular and ni-connected for i = 1, 2.
Evolutionary algorithm based on discrete ITO process for travelling salesman problems
Authors: Dong Wenyong , Sheng Kang , Yang Chuanhua , Yi Yunfei
Published: June 2015

Since dozens years ago, various metaheuristic methods, such as genetic algorithm, ant colony algorithms, have been successfully applied to combinational optimization problem. However, as one of the members, ITO algorithm has only been employed in continuous optimization, it needs further design for combinational optimization problem. In this paper, a discrete ITO algorithm inspired by ITO stochastic process is proposed for travelling salesman problems (TSPs). Some key operators, such as move operator, wave operator, are redesigned to adapt to combinational optimization. Moreover, the performance of ITO algorithm in different parameter selections and the maintenance of population diversity information are also studied. By combining local search methods (such as 2-opt and LK-opt) with ITO algorithm, our computational results of the TSP problems show that ITO algorithm is currently one of the best-performing algorithms for these problems.
Structure and Mechanism of RNA Mimics of Green Fluorescent Protein
Authors: You Mingxu , Jaffrey Samie R.
Published: June 2015

RNAs have highly complex and dynamic cellular localization patterns. Technologies for imaging RNA in living cells are important for uncovering their function and regulatory pathways. One approach for imaging RNA involves genetically encoding fluorescent RNAs using RNA mimics of green fluorescent protein (GFP). These mimics are RNA aptamers that bind fluorophores resembling those naturally found in GFP and activate their fluorescence. These RNA–fluorophore complexes, including Spinach, Spinach2, and Broccoli, can be used to tag RNAs and to image their localization in living cells. In this article, we describe the generation and optimization of these aptamers, along with strategies for expanding the spectral properties of their associated RNA–fluorophore complexes. We also discuss the structural basis for the fluorescence and photophysical properties of Spinach, and we describe future prospects for designing enhanced RNA–fluorophore complexes with enhanced photostability and increased sensitivity.
Surgical Repair of an Atraumatic Avulsion of Patellar Tendon at the Tibial Tuberosity in an Adult Patient
Authors: Di Giacomo Lorenzo Maria , Khan M. Shahid , Bisaccia Michele , Rende R. , Rinonapoli G. , Caraffa A.
Published: June 2015

Atraumatic avulsion of the tibial attachment of patellar tendon in adults is a very rare injury with only few published case reports. Here we are sharing the successful management and follow-up of a similar case with a different suture material for repair of the tendon, the FiberWire. We believe that the management we are discussing allows for early return to activity with good functional outcome.
Maximizing Throughput with Wireless Spectrum Sensing Network Assisted Cognitive Radios
Authors: Ahmad Arbab Waheed , Yang Heekwon , Lee Chankil
Published: June 2015

In a cognitive radio network (CRN), secondary users (SUs) utilize primary users (PUs) licensed spectrum in an opportunistic manner. Spectrum sensing is of the utmost importance in CRN to find and use the available spectrum without harmful interference to the PUs. Conventionally, to implement spectrum utilization, SUs are required to sense the primary spectrum first and then transmit data on the available spectrum. In this paper, we propose a dedicated wireless spectrum sensing network (WSSN), eliminating sensing overhead from SUs with the aim of improving achievable throughput. With WSSN assistance, we eliminate sensing time from the SUs frame, hence increasing the transmission time, which maximizes the achievable throughput. Additionally, the sensing duration is increased by deploying a dedicated WSSN, decreasing the probability of false alarm and achieving a targeted high probability of detection. A low probability of false alarm increases the spectrum utilization, improving the achievable throughput, while a high detection probability ensures PUs protection. Moreover, the proposed technique also addresses hidden and exposed terminal problems along with smooth spectrum mobility. Finally, we provide simulation results to demonstrate the proposed techniques, effectiveness. In the results, we have compared the achievable throughput of the proposed scheme with that of conventional CRN.
Randomized Clinical Trial of the Innovative Bilayered Wound Dressing Made of Silk and Gelatin: Safety and Efficacy Tests Using a Split-Thickness Skin Graft Model
Authors: Hasatsri Sukhontha , Angspatt Apichai , Aramwit Pornanong
Published: June 2015

We developed the novel silk fibroin-based bilayered wound dressing for the treatment of partial thickness wounds. And it showed relevant characteristics and accelerated the healing of full-thickness wounds in a rat model. This study is the clinical evaluation of the bilayered wound dressing to confirm its safety and efficacy for the treatment of split-thickness skin donor sites. The safety test was performed using a patch model and no evidence of marked and severe cutaneous reactions was found. The efficacy test of the bilayered wound dressing was conducted on 23 patients with 30 split-thickness skin graft donor sites to evaluate healing time, pain score, skin barrier function, and systemic reaction in comparison to Bactigras. We found that the healing time of donor site wounds treated with the bilayered wound dressing (11 ± 6 days) was significantly faster than those treated with Bactigras (14 ± 6 days) (p=10-6). The wound sites treated with the bilayered wound dressing showed significantly less pain and more rapid skin functional barrier recovery than those treated with Bactigras (p=10-5). Therefore, these results confirmed the clinical safety and efficacy of the bilayered wound dressing for the treatment of split-thickness skin graft donor sites.
A Perplexing Presentation of Entrapment of the Brachial Artery
Authors: Cevirme Deniz , Aksoy Eray , Adademir Taylan , Sunar Hasan
Published: June 2015

A 45-year-old male being otherwise healthy presented acute onset of right upper extremity ischemia. On physical examination, axillary artery could be palpated whereas the brachial artery could not be palpated below the level of the antecubital fossa, including radial and ulnar artery pulses. Pulses were also inaudible with pocket-ultrasound below the level of the brachial artery bifurcation. The patient was initially diagnosed to have acute thromboembolic occlusion and given 5000 IU intravenous heparin. The patient was taken to the operating room. We noticed that the ischemic symptoms disappeared within a couple of minutes just before we began the operation. However, ischemic symptoms reappeared six hours later and computed tomography angiography showed lack of enhancement below the elbow crease. We were taking the patient to the operating room for the second time when the symptoms recovered in a few minutes, again. The operation was not canceled anymore. In the operation, the brachial artery was found anomalously perforating and it was entrapped by the bicipital aponeurosis. The artery was relieved by resecting the aponeurosis and there was no need for any other intervention. The patient had no more recurrence of symptoms postoperatively.
Solitary Pyomyositis of the Left Rhomboideus Muscle Caused byStreptococcus anginosusandStreptococcus intermediusin an Immunocompetent Person
Authors: Tanaka Yasuhiro , Takaya Kenichi , Yamamoto Go , Shinzato Isaku , Takafuta Toshiro
Published: June 2015

Primary pyomyositis is a bacterial infection of the skeletal muscle commonly affecting children withStaphylococcus aureusmost often isolated as a pathogen. However, pyomyositis caused by anaerobic bacteria is rare in adults. Here, we report a case of solitary Pyomyositis of the left rhomboideus muscle in an immunocompetent person. A 70-year-old Japanese male presented with high fever and left shoulder pain. His muscle below the lower edge of the left scapula was tender and swollen. His laboratory examinations revealed severe inflammation. Computed tomography showed a solitary low-density area around a contrast enhancement in the left rhomboideus muscle. He was diagnosed as having solitary pyomyositis. Although his symptoms did not improve despite empiric intravenous administration of antibiotics, an incision was performed.Streptococcus anginosusandStreptococcus intermediuswere isolated from the culture of drainage fluid. His symptoms gradually disappeared after the incisional drainage and continuous administration of antibiotics. Pyomyositis did not recur after his discharge. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on anaerobic pyomyositis of the shoulder muscle.
Cushing’s Disease: The Relevance of a Combined Dexamethasone Desmopressin Test as a Component of Postoperative Hormonal Evaluation
Authors: Witek Przemysław , Zieliński Grzegorz , Szamotulska Katarzyna
Published: June 2015

Background. The risk of Cushing’s disease (CD) recurring may persist for years, even after initially successful surgery.Objective. To prospectively assess the relevance of a combined dexamethasone desmopressin test (CDDT) as a component of postoperative hormonal evaluation, including the dynamics of ACTH and cortisol concentrations.Material and Methods. We included 28 patients after TSS for CD. Eighteen months after surgery the standard hormonal evaluation was performed, followed by a CDDT.Results. Fifteen patients (53.6%) were in remission whereas in 13 subjects (46.4%) hypercortisolemia was confirmed. Positive results of CDDT were observed in 12 noncured patients (92.3%) and in one subject in remission (6.7%). Negative results were obtained in 12 patients with remission (80%) and in one noncured patient (7.7%). With 2 patients in CD remission (13.3%) the test results were inconclusive. We confirmed a high compatibility between CDDT and standard hormonal assessment results (κ=0.846;P<0.001). Significant differences in ACTH and cortisol levels at each CDDT time point between the two studied subgroups were shown.Conclusions. A negative CDDT result can be regarded as one of the factors indicative of CD remission during follow-up. Additionally, CDDT can help distinguish persistent hypercortisolemia from naturally recurring adrenal function after TSS.
Ileal Interposition in Rats with Experimental Type 2 Like Diabetes Improves Glycemic Control Independently of Glucose Absorption
Authors: Jurowich Christian Ferdinand , Otto Christoph , Rikkala Prashanth Reddy , Wagner Nicole , Vrhovac Ivana , Sabolić Ivan , Germer Christoph-Thomas , Koepsell Hermann
Published: June 2015

Bariatric operations in obese patients with type 2 diabetes often improve diabetes before weight loss is observed. In patients mainly Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass with partial stomach resection is performed. Duodenojejunal bypass (DJB) and ileal interposition (IIP) are employed in animal experiments. Due to increased glucose exposition of L-cells located in distal ileum, all bariatric surgery procedures lead to higher secretion of antidiabetic glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) after glucose gavage. After DJB also downregulation of Na+-d-glucose cotransporter SGLT1 was observed. This suggested a direct contribution of decreased glucose absorption to the antidiabetic effect of bariatric surgery. To investigate whether glucose absorption is also decreased after IIP, we induced diabetes with decreased glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in male rats and investigated effects of IIP on diabetes and SGLT1. After IIP, we observed weight-independent improvement of glucose tolerance, increased insulin sensitivity, and increased plasma GLP-1 after glucose gavage. The interposed ileum was increased in diameter and showed increased length of villi, hyperplasia of the epithelial layer, and increased number of L-cells. The amount of SGLT1-mediated glucose uptake in interposed ileum was increased 2-fold reaching the same level as in jejunum. Thus, improvement of glycemic control by bariatric surgery does not require decreased glucose absorption.
Design and Implementation of Spatial Operators and Energy-Efficient Query Processing Strategy in Wireless Sensor Network Database System
Authors: Lim Chong sok , Lee Jeong-Hoon , Park Minjee , Hyun Soon J.
Published: June 2015

Database applications in wireless sensor networks very often demand data collection from sensor nodes of specific target regions. Design and development of spatial query expressions and energy-efficient query processing strategy are important issues for sensor network database systems. The existing sensor network database systems lack the needed sophistication for the space calculation of the target sensor nodes; hence, unnecessary query/data transmissions are required between the sensor nodes and the server. This paper describes our spatial operations and energy-efficient query processing methods that are designed and implemented in our sensor network database system called [Formula: see text]. With a set of spatial operators based on geometric parameters, such as Envelope, NearBy, Distance, Direction, and set theoretic operators, [Formula: see text] allows sensor network applications to easily specify the target space of interest. Our energy-efficient query processing strategy implements an in-network query management based on the lowest common ancestor (LCA) algorithm, so that the query processing cost for calculating the target spaces is greatly reduced by avoiding the need of heavy query/data transmissions between the base-station and target nodes. Performance evaluation shows that our proposed design and implementation of spatial query expressions and processing strategy achieve improved energy efficiency for database operations in the wireless sensor network.
MicroRNA Dysregulation in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: McKiernan Paul J. , Greene Catherine M.
Published: June 2015

The cystic fibrosis lung is a complex milieu comprising multiple factors that coordinate its physiology. MicroRNAs are regulatory factors involved in most biological processes and it is becoming increasingly clear that they play a key role in the development and manifestations of CF lung disease. These small noncoding RNAs act posttranscriptionally to inhibit protein production. Their involvement in the pathogenesis of CF lung disease stems from the fact that their expression is altered in vivo in the CF lung due to intrinsic and extrinsic factors; to date defective chloride ion conductance, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, and infection have been implicated in altering endogenous miRNA expression in this setting. Here, the current state‐of‐the‐art and biological consequences of altered microRNA expression in cystic fibrosis are reviewed.
Thread Embedding Acupuncture Inhibits Ultraviolet B Irradiation-Induced Skin Photoaging in Hairless Mice
Authors: Kim Yoon-Jung , Kim Ha-Neui , Shin Mi-Sook , Choi Byung-Tae
Published: June 2015

Thread embedding acupuncture (TEA) is an acupuncture treatment applied to many diseases in Korean medical clinics because of its therapeutic effects by continuous stimulation to tissues. It has recently been used to enhance facial skin appearance and antiaging, but data from evidence-based medicine are limited. To investigate whether TEA therapy can inhibit skin photoaging by ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation, we performed analyses for histology, histopathology, in situ zymography and western blot analysis in HR-1 hairless mice. TEA treatment resulted in decreased wrinkle formation and skin thickness (Epidermis;P=0.001versus UV) in UVB irradiated mice and also inhibited degradation of collagen fibers (P=0.010versus normal) by inhibiting proteolytic activity of gelatinase matrix-metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). Western blot data showed that activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) induced by UVB (P=0.002versus normal group) was significantly inhibited by TEA treatment (P=0.005versus UV) with subsequent alleviation of MMP-9 activation (P=0.048versus UV). These results suggest that TEA treatment can have anti-photoaging effects on UVB-induced skin damage by maintenance of collagen density through regulation of expression of MMP-9 and related JNK signaling. Therefore, TEA therapy may have potential roles as an alternative treatment for protection against skin damage from aging.
WO3 Nanoplates Film: Formation and Photocatalytic Oxidation Studies
Authors: Lai Chin Wei
Published: June 2015

High surface area of tungsten oxide (WO3) nanoplates films was prepared via simple electrochemical anodization technique by controlling the fluoride content (NH4F) in electrolyte. The design and development of WO3‐based nanostructure assemblies have gained significant interest in order to maximize specific surface area for harvesting more photons to trigger photocatalytic oxidation reaction. This study aims to determine the optimum content of NH4F in forming WO3 nanoplates on W film with efficient photocatalytic oxidation reaction for organic dye degradation by utilizing our solar energy. The NH4F was found to influence the chemical dissolution and field‐assisted dissolution rates, thus modifying the final morphological of WO3‐based nanostructure assemblies film. It was found that 0.7 wt% of NH4F is the minimum amount to grow WO3 nanoplates film on W film. The photocatalysis oxidation experimental results showed that WO3 nanoplates film exhibited a maximum degradation of methyl orange dye (≈75%) under solar illumination for 5 hours. This behavior was attributed to the better charge carriers transportation and minimizes the recombination losses with specific surface area of nanoplates structure.
A Hybrid Swarm Intelligence Algorithm for Intrusion Detection Using Significant Features
Authors: Amudha P. , Karthik S. , Sivakumari S.
Published: June 2015

Intrusion detection has become a main part of network security due to the huge number of attacks which affects the computers. This is due to the extensive growth of internet connectivity and accessibility to information systems worldwide. To deal with this problem, in this paper a hybrid algorithm is proposed to integrate Modified Artificial Bee Colony (MABC) with Enhanced Particle Swarm Optimization (EPSO) to predict the intrusion detection problem. The algorithms are combined together to find out better optimization results and the classification accuracies are obtained by 10‐fold cross‐validation method. The purpose of this paper is to select the most relevant features that can represent the pattern of the network traffic and test its effect on the success of the proposed hybrid classification algorithm. To investigate the performance of the proposed method, intrusion detection KDDCup’99 benchmark dataset from the UCI Machine Learning repository is used. The performance of the proposed method is compared with the other machine learning algorithms and found to be significantly different.
Nonlocal Theory to Analyse Nanotube Structures under Tension
Authors: Yazdani Sarvestani Hamidreza , Naghashpour Ali
Published: June 2015

Because nanocomposites have found augmented use in many industries, the analytical solutions are required to be developed. This paper presents the development of a new analytical method for studying nanotube structures under tension using layer‐wise and Eringen theories. Two opposite ends of tubes are subjected to normal forces. Nonlocal governing differential equations are derived and presented. The theoretical developments determine the effect of the geometric and nonlocal constitutive relations for single‐walled nanotubes (SWNTs), double‐walled nanotubes (DWNTs), and multiwalled nanotubes (MWNTs) under tension loading. It is observed that all displacement components increase with the increase in the nonlocal parameter.
Primary Dural Spinal Lymphoma Presentation of a Rare Spinal Tumor Case
Authors: Çeçen Dilber Ayçiçek , Tatarlı Necati , Turan Süslü Hikmet , Özdoğan Selçuk , Barışık Nagehan Özdemir
Published: June 2015

Background.Primary spinal dural lymphomas (PSDL) are tumors with characteristic histopathology of a lymphoma, which are completely in the spinal epidural space without any other systemic involvement. Extranodal primary lymphoma involving nervous system prefers thalamus/basal ganglia, periventricular region, cerebellum, eyes, meninges/dura, and cranial nerves or spinal cord. Rare spinal localization with acute spinal cord compression is worth attention.Case Presentation.A 48-year-old male presented with a several-month-long history of upper back pain. Lately, he had numbness and weakness at both lower extremities and was unable to walk for one week. A spinal MRI showed a thoracic lesion with cord compression at T2–T4 levels. The patient underwent surgical decompression, with his final histopathology showing diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Systemic work-up was negative for nodal disease. Following surgery, he received radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy. He experienced a good outcome after four years.Conclusion.The upper thoracic cord is a rare location for primary spinal lesions/metastases, both of which prefer the lower thoracic and upper lumbar regions. In cases of progressive paraparesis, there should be immediate surgical intervention in the case of denovo disease, followed by combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy procedures.
Characterization of Precipitation in Al-Li Alloy AA2195 by means of Atom Probe Tomography and Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Khushaim Muna , Boll Torben , Seibert Judith , Haider Ferdinand , Al-Kassab Talaat
Published: June 2015

The microstructure of the commercial alloy AA2195 was investigated on the nanoscale after conducting T8 tempering. This particular thermomechanical treatment of the specimen resulted in the formation of platelet-shapedT1Al2CuLi/θ′Al2Cuprecipitates within the Al matrix. The electrochemically prepared samples were analyzed by scanning transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography for chemical mapping. Theθ′platelets, which are less than 2 nm thick, have the stoichiometric composition consistent with the expected Al2Cu equilibrium composition. Additionally, the Li distribution inside theθ′platelets was found to equal the same value as in the matrix. The equally thinT1platelet deviates from the formula (Al2CuLi) in its stoichiometry and shows Mg enrichment inside the platelet without any indication of a higher segregation level at the precipitate/matrix interface. The deviation from the (Al2CuLi) stoichiometry cannot be simply interpreted as a consequence of artifacts when measuring the Cu and Li concentrations inside theT1platelet. The results show rather a strong hint for a true lower Li and Cu contents, hence supporting reasonably the hypothesis that the real chemical composition for the thinT1platelet in the T8 tempering condition differs from the equilibrium composition of the thermodynamic stable bulk phase.
Model-Checking Driven Design of QoS-Based Routing Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Chen Zhi , Peng Ya , Yue Wenjing
Published: June 2015

Accurate and reliable routing protocols with Quality of Service (QoS) support determine the mission-critical application efficiency in WSNs. This paper proposes a model-checking design driven framework for designing the QoS-based routing protocols of WSNs, which involves the light-weight design process, the timed automata model, and the alternative QoS verification properties. The accurate feedback of continually model checking in the iterative design process effectively stimulates the parameter tuning of the protocols. We demonstrate the straightforward and modular characteristics of the proposed framework in designing a prototype QoS-based routing protocol. The prototype study shows that the model-checking design framework may complement other design methods and ensure the QoS implementation of the QoS-based routing protocol design for WSNs.
Gallbladder Agenesis with Refractory Choledocholithiasis
Authors: Tjaden Jamie , Patel Kevin , Aadam Aziz
Published: June 2015

Congenital agenesis of the gallbladder is a rare anomaly which is usually asymptomatic and found incidentally. In some cases, however, patients are symptomatic. Common symptoms include right upper quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Jaundice is present in some symptomatic cases and is due to associated choledocholithiasis (Fiaschetti et al. 2009). In this case, a 63-year-old female presents with jaundice and episodic right upper quadrant abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting. Bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase were found to be markedly elevated. Upper endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) revealed choledocholithiasis, and the patient required multiple endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) sessions before successful extraction of all stones. Subsequent surgical exploration revealed congenital agenesis of the gallbladder. Although this is a rare finding, patients with agenesis of the gallbladder are at increased risk of developing de novo choledocholithiasis which may be challenging to extract.
Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Polymorphisms and Blood Pressure Elevation in the Japanese: A Cross-Sectional and a Longitudinal Study over 20 Years in the Shimane CoHRE Study
Authors: Isomura Minoru , Wang Tao , Yamasaki Masayuki , Hasan Md. Zahid , Shiwaku Kuninori , Nabika Toru
Published: June 2015

Purpose. Effects of a genetic polymorphism in the aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2) on blood pressure (BP) were investigated in a cross-sectional and a longitudinal study over 20 years on Japanese rural residents.Methods. Health examinations were held through 2006 to 2012, and 3,202 participates were recruited for this study. Among these participants, 560 individuals had medical records that were obtained in a health examination 20 years ago. Genomic DNA of participants was extracted from blood and the genotype of a polymorphism inALDH2was determined by the TaqMan method. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to examine association between BP and the genetic polymorphism in theALDH2gene.Results. Systolic and diastolic BP were higher in theALDH2∗1/∗1than the others (ALDH2∗1/∗2orALDH2∗2/∗2). Genetic variation of theALDH2gene apparently influenced drinking behavior as the number of the drinkers was significantly reduced in theALDH2∗2/∗2after 20 years of the observation period. This polymorphism, however, did not confer a risk for BP increase in the longitudinal observation.Conclusion. The present cross-sectional study confirmed a genetic effect of theALDH2gene on BP. In contrast, no significant effects on BP were identified in a longitudinal study, which may require a careful consideration.
Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells Derived from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Support CD34posHematopoietic Stem Cell Propagation and Suppress Inflammatory Reaction
Authors: Moslem Mohsen , Eberle Irina , Weber Iuliia , Henschler Reinhard , Cantz Tobias
Published: June 2015

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) represent a promising cell source for research and therapeutic applications, but their restrictedex vivopropagation capabilities limit putative applications. Substantial self-renewing of stem cells can be achieved by reprogramming cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that can be easily expanded as undifferentiated cells even in mass culture. Here, we investigated a differentiation protocol enabling the generation and selection of human iPSC-derived MSCs exhibiting relevant surface marker expression profiles (CD105 and CD73) and functional characteristics. We generated such iPSC-MSCs from fibroblasts and bone marrow MSCs utilizing two different reprogramming constructs. All such iPSC-MSCs exhibited the characteristics of normal bone marrow-derived (BM) MSCs. In direct comparison to BM-MSCs our iPSC-MSCs exhibited a similar surface marker expression profile but shorter doubling times without reaching senescence within 20 passages. Considering functional capabilities, iPSC-MSCs provided supportive feeder layer for CD34+hematopoietic stem cells’ self-renewal and colony forming capacities. Furthermore, iPSC-MSCs gained immunomodulatory function to suppress CD4+cell proliferation, reduce proinflammatory cytokines in mixed lymphocyte reaction, and increase regulatory CD4+/CD69+/CD25+T-lymphocyte population. In conclusion, we generated fully functional MSCs from various iPSC lines irrespective of their starting cell source or reprogramming factor composition and we suggest that such iPSC-MSCs allow repetitive cell applications for advanced therapeutic approaches.
Perioperative Identification of an Accessory Fissure of the Right Lung
Authors: Taverne Yannick , Kleinrensink Gert-Jan , de Rooij Peter
Published: June 2015

Anatomical variations of lungs are common in clinical practice; however, they are sometimes overlooked in routine imaging. Surgical anatomy of the lung is complex and many variations are known to occur. A defective pulmonary development gives rise to variations in lobes and fissures. Morphological presentation is of clinical importance and profound knowledge of the organogenesis and functional anatomy is imperative for the interpretation and evaluation of lung pathophysiology and subsequent surgical intervention. However, appreciating them on radiographs and CT scans is difficult and they are therefore often either not identified or completely misinterpreted. As presented in this case report, an accessory fissure separating the superior segment of the right lower lobe from its native lobe was seen perioperatively and could only retrospectively be defined on X-rays and CT scan. It is imperative to keep in mind that accessory fissures can be missed on imaging studies and thus can make the surgical procedure more challenging.