bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving the Dynamic Characteristics of Body-in-White Structure Using Structural Optimization
Authors: Yahaya Rashid Aizzat S. , Ramli Rahizar , Mohamed Haris Sallehuddin , Alias Anuar
Published: July 2014

The dynamic behavior of a body-in-white (BIW) structure has significant influence on the noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) and crashworthiness of a car. Therefore, by improving the dynamic characteristics of BIW, problems and failures associated with resonance and fatigue can be prevented. The design objectives attempt to improve the existing torsion and bending modes by using structural optimization subjected to dynamic load without compromising other factors such as mass and stiffness of the structure. The natural frequency of the design was modified by identifying and reinforcing the structure at critical locations. These crucial points are first identified by topology optimization using mass and natural frequencies as the design variables. The individual components obtained from the analysis go through a size optimization step to find their target thickness of the structure. The thickness of affected regions of the components will be modified according to the analysis. The results of both optimization steps suggest several design modifications to achieve the target vibration specifications without compromising the stiffness of the structure. A method of combining both optimization approaches is proposed to improve the design modification process.
Rate of Convergence of Modified Baskakov-Durrmeyer Type Operators for Functions of Bounded Variation
Authors: Patel Prashantkumar , Mishra Vishnu Narayan
Published: July 2014

We study a certain integral modification of well-known Baskakov operators with weight function of beta basis function. We establish rate of convergence for these operators for functions having derivative of bounded variation. Also, we discuss Stancu type generalization of these operators.
Effect of Core‐Shell Ag@TiO2 Volume Ratio on Characteristics of TiO2‐Based DSSCs
Authors: Chang Ho , Chen Chih-Hao , Kao Mu-Jung , Hsiao Hsin-Han
Published: July 2014

This paper aims to develop photoanode material required by dye‐sensitized solar cells. The material prepared is in the form of Ag@TiO2 core‐shell‐type nanocomposites. This material is used to replace the titanium oxide powder commonly used in general DSSCs. The prepared Ag@TiO2 core‐shell‐type nanocomposites are mixed with Degussa P25 TiO2 in different proportions. Triton X‐100 is added and polyethylene glycol (PEG) at 20 wt% is used as a polymer additive. This study tests the particle size and material properties of Ag@TiO2 core‐shell‐type nanocomposites and measures the photoelectric conversion efficiency and IPCE of DSSCs. Experimental results show that the DSSC prepared by Ag@TiO2 core‐shell‐type nanocomposites can achieve a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 3.67%. When Ag@TiO2 core‐shell‐type nanocomposites are mixed with P25 nanoparticles in specific proportions, and when the thickness of the photoelectrode thin film is 28 μm, the photoelectric conversion efficiency can reach 6.06%, with a fill factor of 0.52, open‐circuit voltage of 0.64V, and short‐circuit density of 18.22 mAcm−2. Compared to the DSSC prepared by P25 TiO2 only, the photoelectric conversion efficiency can be raised by 38% under the proposed approach.
Virulence Profiles, Phylogenetic Background, and Antibiotic Resistance ofEscherichia coliIsolated from Turkeys with Airsacculitis
Authors: Cunha Marcos Paulo Vieira , de Oliveira Maria Gabriela Xavier , de Oliveira Mirela Caroline Vilela , da Silva Ketrin Cristina , Gomes Cleise Ribeiro , Moreno Andrea Micke , Knöbl Terezinha
Published: July 2014

Avian PathogenicEscherichia coli(APEC) has been studied for decades because of its economic impact on the poultry industry. Recently, the zoonotic potential of APEC and multidrug-resistant strains have emerged. The aim of this study was to characterize 225 APEC isolated from turkeys presenting airsacculitis. The results showed that 92% of strains presented a multidrug-resistance (MDR), and the highest levels of resistance were to sulfamethazine (94%) and tetracycline (83%). Half of these strains were classified in phylogenetic group B2, followed by B1 (28.6%), A (17.1%), and D (4.8%). The prevalence of virulence genes was as follows: salmochelin (iroN,95%), increased serum survival (iss,93%), colicin V (cvi/cva,67%), aerobactin (iucD,67%), temperature-sensitive haemagglutinin (tsh,56%), iron-repressible protein (irp2,51%), invasion brain endothelium (ibeA,31%), vacuolating autotransporter toxin (vat,24%), K1 antigen (neuS,19%), enteroaggregative heat-stable cytotoxin (astA,17%), and pilus associated with pyelonephritis (papC,15%). These results demonstrate that the majority of the investigated strains belonged to group B2 and were MDR. These data suggest that turkeys may serve as a reservoir of pathogenic and multidrug-resistance strains, reinforcing the idea that poultry plays a role in the epidemiological chain of ExPEC.
Parameters Separated Calibration Based on Particle Swarm Optimization for a Camera and a Laser‐Rangefinder Information Fusion
Authors: Zhou Kaijun , Yu Lingli
Published: July 2014

Heterogeneous sensors fusion of a camera and a laser‐rangefinder can greatly improve the environment perception ability, and its primary problem is the calibration of depth scan and image information. At first, the mapping relationship among world coordinate system, camera coordinate system, and image plane is discussed, and then the calibration of camera intrinsic parameters is achieved. Moreover, the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters separated calibration is presented for a camera and a laser‐rangefinder, and the characteristic identification is adopted by two intersection calibration boards with a certain angel for fusion characters extraction. Furthermore, the particle swarm optimization is proposed for the extrinsic parameters estimation with different objectives, and the Gaussian elimination is utilized for the initial particle swarm. The simulation and real experimental results show that the standard deviation of calibration error in the 21‐group experiments is decreased by 10.175%, and it also proves the accuracy and effectiveness of our approaches.
The Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery (Arteria Lusoria): The Morphological and Clinical Aspects of One of the Most Important Variations—A Systematic Study of 141 Reports
Authors: Polguj Michał , Chrzanowski Łukasz , Kasprzak Jarosław D. , Stefańczyk Ludomir , Topol Mirosław , Majos Agata
Published: July 2014

The most important abnormality of the aortic arch is arguably the presence of an aberrant right subclavian artery (arteria lusoria). If this vessel compresses the adjacent structures, several symptoms may be produced. The aim of the study is to present the morphological and clinical aspects of the aberrant right subclavian artery. Three different databases searched for a review of pertinent literature using strictly predetermined criteria. Of 141 cases, 15 were cadaveric and 126 were clinically documented. The gender distribution of the subjects was 55.3% female and 44.7% male. The mean age of the patients at symptoms onset was49.9±19.4years for all patients but54.0±19.6years and44.9±18.1years for female and male subjects, respectively (P=0.0061). The most common symptoms in this group were dysphagia (71.2%), dyspnea (18.7%), retrosternal pain (17.0%), cough (7.6%), and weight loss (5.9%). The vascular anomalies coexisting with an arteria lusoria were truncus bicaroticus (19.2%), Kommerell’s diverticulum (14.9%), aneurysm of the artery itself (12.8%), and a right sided aortic arch (9.2%). In conclusion, compression of adjacent structures by an aberrant right subclavian artery needs to be differentiated from other conditions presenting dysphagia, dyspnea, retrosternal pain, cough, and weight loss.
GrowingChlorella vulgarisin Photobioreactor by Continuous Process Using Concentrated Desalination: Effect of Dilution Rate on Biochemical Composition
Authors: Matos Ângelo Paggi , Torres Regina Coeli de Oliveira , Morioka Luiz Rodrigo Ito , Moecke Elisa Helena Siegel , França Kepler Borges , Sant’Anna Ernani Sebastião
Published: July 2014

Desalination wastewater, which contains large amount of salt waste, might lead to severely environmental pollution. This study evaluated the effect of dilution rate (0.1≤D≤0.3day−1) on microalgal biomass productivity, lipid content, and fatty acid profile under steady-state condition ofChlorella vulgarissupplemented with concentrated desalination. Continuous culture was conducted for 55 days. Results show that the biomass productivity (Px) varied from 57 to 126 mg L−1 d−1(dry mass) when the dilution rate ranged from 0.1 to 0.3 day−1. At lowest dilution rate (D=0.1day−1), the continuous culture regime ensured the highest values of maximum biomass concentration (Xm=570±20 mL−1) and protein content (52%). Biomass lipid content was an increasing function ofD. The most abundant fatty acids were the palmitic (25.3±0.6%) atD=0.1day−1and the gamma-linolenic acid (23.5±0.1%) atD=0.3day−1ones. These fatty acids present 14 to 18 carbons in the carbon chain, being mainly saturated and polyunsaturated, respectively. Overall, the results show that continuous culture is a powerful tool to investigate the cell growth kinetics and physiological behaviors of the algae growing on desalination wastewater.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Pathogenesis, Genetic Background, and the Role of Nutritional Supplements
Authors: Moschos Marilita M. , Nitoda Eirini , Chatziralli Irini P. , Demopoulos Constantinos A.
Published: July 2014

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness worldwide, mainly affecting people over 65 years old. Dry and wet ARDM are the main types of the disease, which seem to have a multifactorial background. The aim of this review is to summarize the mechanisms of ARMD pathogenesis and exhibit the role of diet and nutritional supplements in the onset and progression of the disease. Environmental factors, such as smoking, alcohol, and, diet appear to interact with mutations in nuclear and mitochondrial DNA, contributing to the pathogenesis of ARMD. Inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress, induced by the daily exposure of retina to high pressure of oxygen and light radiation, have been also associated with ARMD lesions. Other than medical and surgical therapies, nutritional supplements hold a significant role in the prevention and treatment of ARMD, eliminating the progression of macular degeneration.
Predictive Symptoms and Signs of Severe Dengue Disease for Patients with Dengue Fever: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang H. , Zhou Y. P. , Peng H. J. , Zhang X. H. , Zhou F. Y. , Liu Z. H. , Chen X. G.
Published: July 2014

The aim of the meta-analysis was to provide more solid evidence for the reliability of the new classification. A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, Armed Forces Pest Management Board Literature Retrieval System, and Google Scholar up to August 2012. A pooled odds ratio (OR) was calculated using either a random-effect or a fixed-effect model. A total of 16 papers were identified. Among the 11 factors studied, five symptoms demonstrated an increased risk for SDD, including bleeding [OR: 13.617; 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.281, 56.508], vomiting/nausea (OR: 1.692; 95% CI: 1.256, 2.280), abdominal pain (OR: 2.278; 95% CI: 1.631, 3.182), skin rashes (OR: 2.031; 95% CI: 1.269, 3.250), and hepatomegaly (OR: 4.751; 95% CI: 1.769, 12.570). Among the four bleeding-related symptoms including hematemesis, melena, gum bleeding, and epistaxis, only hematemesis (OR: 6.174; 95% CI: 2.66, 14.334;P<0.001) and melena (OR: 10.351; 95% CI: 3.065, 34.956;P<0.001) were significantly associated with SDD. No significant associations with SDD were found for gender, lethargy, retroorbital pain, diarrhea, or tourniquet test, whereas headache appeared protective (OR: 0.555; 95% CI: 0.455, 0.676). The meta-analysis suggests that bleeding (hematemesis/melena), vomiting/nausea, abdominal pain, skin rashes, and hepatomegaly may predict the development of SDD in patients with DF, while headache may predict otherwise.
Heat Transfer and Failure Mode Analyses of Ultrahigh‐Temperature Ceramic Thermal Protection System of Hypersonic Vehicles
Authors: Cheng Tianbao , Li Weiguo , Lu Wei , Shi Yushan
Published: July 2014

The transient temperature distribution of the ultrahigh‐temperature ceramic (UHTC) thermal protection system (TPS) of hypersonic vehicles is calculated using finite volume method. Convective cooling enables a balance of heat increment and loss to be achieved. The temperature in the UHTC plate at the balance is approximately proportional to the surface heat flux and is approximately inversely proportional to the convective heat transfer coefficient. The failure modes of the UHTCs are presented by investigating the thermal stress field of the UHTC TPS under different thermal environments. The UHTCs which act as the thermal protection materials of hypersonic vehicles can fail because of the tensile stress at the lower surface, an area above the middle plane, and the upper surface as well as because of the compressive stress at the upper surface. However, the area between the lower surface and the middle plane and a small area near the upper surface are relatively safe. Neither the compressive stress nor the tensile stress will cause failure of these areas.
A Distributed Energy Optimized Routing Using Virtual Potential Field in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Jiang Haifeng , Sun Yanjing , Sun Renke , Chen Wei , Ma Shanshan , Gao Jing
Published: July 2014

Energy is an extremely critical resource for battery-powered wireless sensor networks. Since data transmission typically consumes more energy than any other activities on a sensor node, it is of great importance to design energy optimized routing algorithm to achieve both energy efficiency and energy balance together, in order to prolong the network lifetime. In this paper, with the help of the concept of potential field in physics, we design a distributed energy optimized routing by constructing a hybrid potential field. The goal of this basic approach is to force packets to move toward the sink at the same time to achieve energy balance among neighbors. We adopt the social welfare function from social sciences to predict equality of residual energy of neighbors after selecting different next nodes, which is used to compute the potential value in energy balance potential field. Simulation results show that the algorithm effectively extends the network lifetime, has good performance on energy balance of sensors, and decreases the average hop of data transmission with the increase of the number of sinks, compared with similar algorithms.
In SilicoStudy ofLeishmania donovaniα-βTubulin and Inhibitors
Authors: Assis Tamiris M. , Mancini Daiana T. , Ramalho Teodorico C. , da Cunha Elaine F. F.
Published: July 2014

Leishmania donovaniis a parasite that causes visceral leishmaniasis, a severe form of leishmaniasis that affects vital organs. An important target for the treatment of this disease is the proteinα-βtubulin, which was modeled in this paper and proposed as a target for the treatment of visceral leishmaniasis. Two classes of compounds were studied, dinitroanilines and oxadiazoles. According to the docking results, dinitroanilines interact better with the L loop domain and oxadiazoles interact better with the colchicine domain.
A Closed‐Form Solution for Robust Portfolio Selection with Worst‐Case CVaR Risk Measure
Authors: Tang Le , Ling Aifan
Published: July 2014

With the uncertainty probability distribution, we establish the worst‐case CVaR (WCCVaR) risk measure and discuss a robust portfolio selection problem with WCCVaR constraint. The explicit solution, instead of numerical solution, is found and two‐fund separation is proved. The comparison of efficient frontier with mean‐variance model is discussed and finally we give numerical comparison with VaR model and equally weighted strategy. The numerical findings indicate that the proposed WCCVaR model has relatively smaller risk and greater return and relatively higher accumulative wealth than VaR model and equally weighted strategy.
Transmit Waveform Optimization for Spatial-Frequency Diversity MIMO Radar in the Presence of Clutter
Authors: Tang Yonghao , Ma Xiaofeng , Sheng Weixing , Han Yubing
Published: July 2014

Benefitting from the independent target echoes of diversity channels, diversity MIMO radar can efficiently improve system performance, such as target detection and parameter estimation. Due to the fact that the RCS (radar cross section) of complex target may vary with the different transmitted carrier frequencies and array geometries, many recent researches study at the background of diversity MIMO radar equipped with widely separated array antennas or working at multiple carrier frequencies, respectively. In this paper, a new MIMO radar system combining the spatial and frequency diversities is investigated in the presence of signal-dependent clutter, which is called spatial-frequency diversity MIMO radar. With the prior information of target and clutter, a new method for joint optimization of transmitted waveforms and receiving filters is proposed to enhance the target detection ability of spatial-frequency diversity MIMO radar. Inspired by the MIMO communication system, the water-filling algorithm is introduced into the transmitted energy allocation problem for each carrier frequency channel. Simulation results show that the proposed system has a better performance in output signal-to-clutter-noise ratio (SCNR) compared to conventional diversity MIMO radar system.
Finite Difference and Sinc-Collocation Approximations to a Class of Fractional Diffusion-Wave Equations
Authors: Mao Zhi , Xiao Aiguo , Yu Zuguo , Shi Long
Published: July 2014

We propose an efficient numerical method for a class of fractional diffusion-wave equations with the Caputo fractional derivative of orderα. This approach is based on the finite difference in time and the global sinc collocation in space. By utilizing the collocation technique and some properties of the sinc functions, the problem is reduced to the solution of a system of linear algebraic equations at each time step. Stability and convergence of the proposed method are rigorously analyzed. The numerical solution is of3-αorder accuracy in time and exponential rate of convergence in space. Numerical experiments demonstrate the validity of the obtained method and support the obtained theoretical results.
Design of a Multiband Antenna for LTE/GSM/UMTS Band Operation
Authors: Hong Youngtaek , Tak Jinpil , Baek Jisoo , Myeong Bongsik , Choi Jaehoon
Published: July 2014

This paper proposes a multiband antenna for LTE/GSM/UMTS band operation. The proposed antenna consists of a meandered planar inverted-F antenna with an additional branch line for wide bandwidth and a folded-loop antenna. The antenna provides a wide bandwidth to cover the hepta-band LTE/GSM/UMTS operation. The measured 6 dB return loss bandwidth is 169 MHz (793–962 MHz) at the low-frequency band and 1030 MHz (1700–2730 MHz) at the high-frequency band. The overall dimension of the proposed antenna is 55 mm × 110 mm × 5 mm.
Analysis of the Dielectric Constant of Saline-Alkali Soils and the Effect on Radar Backscattering Coefficient: A Case Study of Soda Alkaline Saline Soils in Western Jilin Province Using RADARSAT-2 Data
Authors: Li Yang-yang , Zhao Kai , Ren Jian-hua , Ding Yan-ling , Wu Li-li
Published: July 2014

Soil salinity is a global problem, especially in developing countries, which affects the environment and productivity of agriculture areas. Salt has a significant effect on the complex dielectric constant of wet soil. However, there is no suitable model to describe the variation in the backscattering coefficient due to changes in soil salinity content. The purpose of this paper is to use backscattering models to understand behaviors of the backscattering coefficient in saline soils based on the analysis of its dielectric constant. The effects of moisture and salinity on the dielectric constant by combined Dobson mixing model and seawater dielectric constant model are analyzed, and the backscattering coefficient is then simulated using the AIEM. Simultaneously, laboratory measurements were performed on ground samples. The frequency effect of the laboratory results was not the same as the simulated results. The frequency dependence of the ionic conductivity of an electrolyte solution is influenced by the ion’s components. Finally, the simulated backscattering coefficients measured from the dielectric constant with the AIEM were analyzed using the extracted backscattering coefficient from the RADARSAT-2 image. The results show that RADARSAT-2 is potentially able to measure soil salinity; however, the mixed pixel problem needs to be more thoroughly considered.
On the Solutions of Some Linear Complex Quaternionic Equations
Authors: Bolat Cennet , İpek Ahmet
Published: July 2014

Some complex quaternionic equations in the typeAX-XB=Care investigated. For convenience, these equations were called generalized Sylvester-quaternion equations, which include the Sylvester equation as special cases. By the real matrix representations of complex quaternions, the necessary and sufficient conditions for the solvability and the general expressions of the solutions are obtained.
Removal and Adsorption of p‐Nitrophenol from Aqueous Solutions Using Carbon Nanotubes and Their Composites
Authors: Yao Yuan-Xiang , Li He-Bing , Liu Jin-Yun , Tan Xin-Liang , Yu Jin-Gang , Peng Zhi-Guang
Published: July 2014

In an attempt to explore the possibility of using carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as efficient adsorbents for removal of pollutants from the contaminated water, the adsorption of p‐nitrophenol (PNP) on raw multiwalled carbon nanotubes (r.MWNTs) with different outer diameters, various functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (f‐MWNTs), raw single‐walled carbon nanotubes (r.SWNTs) and oxidized single‐walled carbon nanotubes (ox‐SWNTs) has been investigated. The ox‐SWNTs showed better adsorption ability for PNP with different concentrations, while lower uptake capacity was found for all of the r.MWNTs and f‐MWNTs. The removal efficiency of PNP by ox‐SWNTs was around 98%, indicating that ox‐SWNTs possess a great potential application prospect for removing PNP from aqueous solutions.
Primary Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Urinary Bladder
Authors: Venyo Anthony Kodzo-Grey
Published: July 2014

Primary clear cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder (PCCUB) is rare. Literature review has revealed 47 cases of PCCUB which commonly affects women. The histogenesis of PCCUB is not certain and Müllerian origin and urotheilal origin have been postulated. The microscopic characteristics of PCCUB include cells with abundant clear cytoplasm, arranged in a solid, glandular, tubulocystic, or papillary pattern. The cells may be flat or cuboidal with abundant clear eosinophilic cytoplasm. Hobnailing may be evident. PCCUB, on immunohistochemistry, stain positively with pan-cytokeratin, cytokeratin 7, and CA 125. PCCUB may manifest with visible haematuria, lower urinary tract symptoms, and discharge. There is no consensus opinion regarding the best treatment option for PCCUBs and patient outcomes are not very clear. Surgery has been the adopted treatment of choice. Differential diagnoses of PCCUB include nephrogenic metaplasia, urothelial carcinoma with clear cell cytoplasm, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and metastatic clear cell carcinoma with the primary originating elsewhere.Conclusions.A thorough radiological imaging assessment is required in cases of PCCUB to exclude a primary tumour elsewhere. Urologists and oncologists should report cases of PCCUB they encounter and should enter them into a multicentric trial to ascertain the best management option.
Semiautomatic Cochleostomy Target and Insertion Trajectory Planning for Minimally Invasive Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Wimmer Wilhelm , Venail Frederic , Williamson Tom , Akkari Mohamed , Gerber Nicolas , Weber Stefan , Caversaccio Marco , Uziel Alain , Bell Brett
Published: July 2014

A major component of minimally invasive cochlear implantation is atraumatic scala tympani (ST) placement of the electrode array. This work reports on a semiautomatic planning paradigm that uses anatomical landmarks and cochlear surface models for cochleostomy target and insertion trajectory computation. The method was validated in a human whole head cadaver model (n=10ears). Cochleostomy targets were generated from an automated script and used for consecutive planning of a direct cochlear access (DCA) drill trajectory from the mastoid surface to the inner ear. An image-guided robotic system was used to perform both, DCA and cochleostomy drilling. Nine of 10 implanted specimens showed complete ST placement. One case of scala vestibuli insertion occurred due to a registration/drilling error of 0.79 mm. The presented approach indicates that a safe cochleostomy target and insertion trajectory can be planned using conventional clinical imaging modalities, which lack sufficient resolution to identify the basilar membrane.
Amides from Piper as a Diuretic: Behind the Ethnopharmacological Uses of Piper glabratum Kunth
Authors: Prando Thiago Bruno Lima , Baciquete Tatiane da Fonseca , Vieira Jennifer Alexandra Castanho , Bressan Jaqueline , Gasparotto Francielly Mourão , Jesus Douglas Rossi , Cardozo Junior Euclides Lara , Lourenço Emerson Luiz Botelho , Gasparotto Junior Arquimedes
Published: July 2014

Several species of the genus Piper are known in Brazilian folk medicine as having diuretic activity. So, we propose to investigate the acute diuretic activity and the possible toxic effects of Piper glabratum Kunth, popularly known as false Jaborandi. Additionally, we propose to check whether there is any correlation between the biological activities of the crude extract (MEPG) and its 2‐methoxy‐4,5‐methylenedioxy‐trans‐cinnamoyl‐pyrrolidine (MMCP) in Wistar rats. The MEPG was fractioned by chromatography column and the MMCP was identified by analyses of 1H and 13C RMN spectral data and correlations. Both MEPG and MMCP were assayed for diuretic activity. The preparations obtained were orally administered in a single dose to rats. The urine excretion, pH, density, conductivity, and content of Na+, K+, Cl−, and were measured in the urine of saline‐loaded animals. Additionally, acute toxicity of the extract was also evaluated. MMCP at doses of 30 mg/kg was able to increase the urine volume, pH, and excretion. Moreover, high dosage of MEPG showed important liver toxicity and elevated mortality when injected intraperitoneally. The results indicate that the MMCP shows important diuretic properties when administered in Wistar rats. Additionally, MEPG can induce important acute toxicity if given in high doses.
Estimation of Grain Orientation in an Anisotropic Weld by Using a Model of Ultrasonic Propagation in an Inverse Scheme
Authors: Liu Qingwei , Wirdelius Håkan
Published: July 2014

The initial step towards a nondestructive technique that estimates grain orientation in an anisotropic weld is presented in this paper. The purpose is to aid future forward simulations of ultrasonic NDT of this kind of weld to achieve a better result. A forward model that consists of a weld model, a transmitter model, a receiver model, and a 2D ray tracing algorithm is introduced. An inversion based on a multiobjective genetic algorithm is also presented. Experiments are conducted for both P and SV waves in order to collect enough data used in the inversion. Calculation is conducted to fulfill the estimation with both the synthetic data and the experimental data. Concluding remarks are presented at the end of the paper.
Prevention of Peritendinous Adhesions Using an Electrospun DegraPol Polymer Tube: A Histological, Ultrasonographic, and Biomechanical Study in Rabbits
Authors: Meier Bürgisser Gabriella , Calcagni Maurizio , Müller Angela , Bonavoglia Eliana , Fessel Gion , Snedeker Jess G. , Giovanoli Pietro , Buschmann Johanna
Published: July 2014

Purpose. One of the great challenges in surgical tendon rupture repair is to minimize peritendinous adhesions. In order to reduce adhesion formation, a physical barrier was applied to a sutured rabbit Achilles tendon, with two different immobilization protocols used postoperatively.Methods. Thirty New Zealand white rabbits received a laceration on the Achilles tendon, sutured with a 4-strand Becker suture, and half of the rabbits got a DegraPol tube at the repair site. While fifteen rabbits had their treated hind leg in a 180° stretched position during 6 weeks (adhesion provoking immobilization), the other fifteen rabbits were recasted with a 150° position after 3 weeks (adhesion inhibiting immobilization). Adhesion extent was analysed macroscopically, via ultrasound and histology. Inflammation was determined histologically. Biomechanical properties were analysed.Results. Application of a DegraPol tube reduced adhesion formation by approximately 20%—independently of the immobilization protocol. Biomechanical properties of extracted specimen were not affected by the tube application. There was no serious inflammatory reaction towards the implant material.Conclusions. Implantation of a DegraPol tube tightly set around a sutured tendon acts as a beneficial physical barrier and prevents adhesion formation significantly—without affecting the tendon healing process.
Robust Adaptive Neural Backstepping Control for a Class of Nonlinear Systems with Dynamic Uncertainties
Authors: Yang Hongyan , Wang Huanqing , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: July 2014

This paper is concerned with adaptive neural control of nonlinear strict-feedback systems with nonlinear uncertainties, unmodeled dynamics, and dynamic disturbances. To overcome the difficulty from the unmodeled dynamics, a dynamic signal is introduced. Radical basis function (RBF) neural networks are employed to model the packaged unknown nonlinearities, and then an adaptive neural control approach is developed by using backstepping technique. The proposed controller guarantees semiglobal boundedness of all the signals in the closed-loop systems. A simulation example is given to show the effectiveness of the presented control scheme.
Existence and Well-Posedness for Symmetric Vector Quasi-Equilibrium Problems
Authors: Wang Kaihong , Zhang Wenyan , Fang Min
Published: July 2014

An existence result for the solution set of symmetric vector quasi-equilibrium problems that allows for discontinuities is obtained. Moreover, sufficient conditions for the generalized Levitin-Polyak well-posedness of symmetric vector quasi-equilibrium problems are established.
Metabolic Effects of Hypoxia in Colorectal Cancer by13C NMR Isotopomer Analysis
Authors: Abrantes Ana M. , Tavares Ludgero C. , Pires Salomé , Casalta-Lopes João , Mendes Cândida , Simões Marta , Grazina Manuela M. , Carvalho Rui A. , Botelho Maria Filomena
Published: July 2014

13C NMR isotopomer analysis was used to characterize intermediary metabolism in three colorectal cancer cell lines (WiDr, LS1034, and C2BBe1) and determine the “metabolic remodeling” that occurs under hypoxia. Under normoxia, the three colorectal cancer cell lines present high rates of lactate production and can be seen as “Warburg” like cancer cells independently of substrate availability, since such profile was dominant at both high and low glucose media contents. The LS1034 was the less glycolytic of the three cell lines and was the most affected by the event of hypoxia, raising abruptly glucose consumption and lactate production. The other two colorectal cell lines, WiDr and C2BBe1, adapted better to hypoxia and were able to maintain their oxidative fluxes even at the very low levels of oxygen. These differential metabolic behaviors of the three colorectal cell lines show how important an adequate knowledge of the “metabolic remodeling” that follows a given cancer treatment is towards the correct (re)design of therapeutic strategies against cancer.
Therapy of Hypoparathyroidism by Replacement with Parathyroid Hormone
Authors: Rejnmark Lars , Underbjerg Line , Sikjaer Tanja
Published: July 2014

Hypoparathyroidism (HypoPT) is a state of hypocalcemia due to inappropriate low levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH). HypoPT is normally treated by calcium supplements and activated vitamin D analogues. Although plasma calcium is normalized in response to conventional therapy, quality of life (QoL) seems impaired and patients are at increased risk of renal complications. A number of studies have suggested subcutaneous injections with PTH as an alternative therapy. By replacement with the missing hormone, urinary calcium may be lowered and QoL may improve. PTH replacement therapy (PTH-RT) possesses, nevertheless, a number of challenges. If PTH is injected only once a day, fluctuations in calcium levels may occur resulting in hypercalcemia in the hours following an injection. Twice-a-day injections seem to cause less fluctuation in plasma calcium but do stimulate bone turnover to above normal. Most recently, continuous delivery of PTH by pump has appeared as a feasible alternative to injections. Plasma calcium levels do not fluctuate, urinary calcium is lowered, and bone turnover is only stimulated modestly (into the normal range). Further studies are needed to assess the long-term effects. If beneficial, it seems likely that standard treatment of HypoPT in the future will change into replacement therapy with the missing hormone.
Angiogenin Expression during Early Human Placental Development; Association with Blood Vessel Formation
Authors: Pavlov Nadine , Frendo Jean-Louis , Guibourdenche Jean , Degrelle Séverine A. , Evain-Brion Danièle , Badet Josette
Published: July 2014

The placenta is a transient organ essential for fetal development. During human placental development, chorionic villi grow in coordination with a large capillary network resulting from both vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. Angiogenin is one of the most potent inducers of neovascularisation in experimental modelsin vivo. We and others have previously mapped angiogenin expression in the human term placenta. Here, we explored angiogenin involvement in early human placental development. We studied, angiogenin expression byin situhybridisation and/or by RT-PCR in tissues and primary cultured trophoblastic cells and angiogenin cellular distribution by coimmunolabelling with cell markers: CD31 (PECAM-1), vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGF-R2), Tie-2, von Willebrand factor, CD34, erythropoeitin receptor (Epo-R), alpha-smooth muscle actin, CD45, cytokeratin 7, and Ki-67. Extravillous and villous cytotrophoblasts, isolated and differentiatedin vitro, expressed and secreted angiogenin. Angiogenin was detected in villous trophoblastic layers, and structured and nascent fetal vessels. In decidua, it was expressed by glandular epithelial cells, vascular cells and macrophages. The observed pattern of angiogenin expression is compatible with a role in blood vessel formation and in cross-talk between trophoblasts and endothelial cells. In view of angiogenin properties, we suggest that angiogenin may participate in placental vasculogenesis and organogenesis.
Anatomical Outcome of Vitreoretinal Surgery Using Temporary Keratoprosthesis and Replacement of the Trephined Corneal Button for Severe Open Globe Injuries: One-Year Result
Authors: Chen Hui-Jin , Wang Chang-Guan , Dou Hong-Liang , Feng Xue-Feng , Feng Kang , Hu Yun-Tao , Xu Yi-Min , Ma Zhi-Zhong
Published: July 2014

In this case series of 74 patients with coexisting vitreoretinal injury and severe corneal opacification, after temporary keratoprosthesis (TKP) assisted pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), an allograft corneal transplant was not performed at the same time; instead, the patient’s trephined corneal button was sutured back. One year after the surgery, if intraocular pressure of the injured eyes was above 8 mmHg, removing silicone oil was attempted, and penetrating keratoplasty could be performed. Finally, 10 eyes (13.5%) were enucleated due to atrophia bulbi; 46 eyes (62.2%) were silicone-oil sustained; 15 eyes (20.3%) were anatomically restored; and 3 eyes (4.0%) experienced recurrent retinal detachment. These figures only demonstrate a small percentage of the injured eyes in our series, which have PKP indications. It is a practical option to suture back the patient’s trephined cornea following a TKP assisted PPV; keratoplasty was reserved for selected cases.
Associations of Body Mass Index with Sexual Risk-Taking and Injection Drug Use among US High School Students
Authors: Lowry Richard , Robin Leah , Kann Laura , Galuska Deborah A.
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine if body mass index (BMI) is associated with behaviors that may increase risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among US high school students. We analyzed nationally representative data from the 2005–2011 national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys (YRBS) to examine associations of BMI categories with sexual risk behaviors and injection drug use among sexually active high school students, using sex-stratified logistic regression models. Controlling for race/ethnicity and grade, among female and male students, both underweight (BMI < 5th percentile) and obesity (BMI ≥ 95th percentile) were associated with decreased odds of being currently sexually active (i.e., having had sexual intercourse during the past 3 months). However, among sexually active female students, obese females were more likely than normal weight females to have had 4 or more sex partners (odds ratio, OR = 1.59), not used a condom at last sexual intercourse (OR = 1.30), and injected illegal drugs (OR = 1.98). Among sexually active male students, overweight (85th percentile ≤ BMI < 95th percentile) was associated with not using a condom at last sexual intercourse (OR = 1.19) and obesity was associated with injection drug use (OR = 1.42). Among sexually active students, overweight and obesity may be indicators of increased risk for HIV and other STDs.
Utility-Oriented Placement of Actuator Nodes with a Collaborative Serving Scheme for Facilitated Business and Working Environments
Authors: Lei Chi-Un , Chong Woon Kian , Man Ka Lok
Published: July 2014

Places to be served by cyber-physical systems (CPS) are usually distributed unevenly over the area. Thus, different areas usually have different importance and values of serving. In other words, serving power can be excessive or insufficient in practice. Therefore, actuator nodes (ANs) in CPS should be focused on serving around points of interest (POIs) with considerations of “service utility.” In this paper, a utility-oriented AN placement framework with a collaborative serving scheme is proposed. Through spreading serving duties among correctly located ANs, deployment cost can be reduced, utility of ANs can be fully utilized, and the system longevity can be improved. The problem has been converted into a binary integer linear programming optimization problem. Service fading, 3D placements, multiscenario placements, and fault-tolerant placements have been modeled in the framework. An imitated example of a CPS deployment in a smart laboratory has been used for evaluations.
Synchronization Control for Stochastic Neural Networks with Mixed Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Zhu Qing , Song Aiguo , Fei Shumin , Yang Yuequan , Cao Zhiqiang
Published: July 2014

Synchronization control of stochastic neural networks with time-varying discrete and continuous delays has been investigated. A novel control scheme is proposed using the Lyapunov functional method and linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach. Sufficient conditions have been derived to ensure the global asymptotical mean-square stability for the error system, and thus the drive system synchronizes with the response system. Also, the control gain matrix can be obtained. With these effective methods, synchronization can be achieved. Simulation results are presented to show the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Computer-Assisted Planning and Patient-Specific Instruments for Bone Tumor Resection within the Pelvis: A Series of 11 Patients
Authors: Gouin François , Paul Laurent , Odri Guillaume Anthony , Cartiaux Olivier
Published: July 2014

Pelvic bone tumor resection is challenging due to complex geometry, limited visibility, and restricted workspace. Accurate resection including a safe margin is required to decrease the risk of local recurrence. This clinical study reports 11 cases of pelvic bone tumor resected by using patient-specific instruments. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to delineate the tumor and computerized tomography to localize it in 3D. Resection planning consisted in desired cutting planes around the tumor including a safe margin. The instruments were designed to fit into unique position on the bony structure and to indicate the desired resection planes. Intraoperatively, instruments were positioned freehand by the surgeon and bone cutting was performed with an oscillating saw. Histopathological analysis of resected specimens showed tumor-free bone resection margins for all cases. Available postoperative computed tomography was registered to preoperative computed tomography to measure location accuracy (minimal distance between an achieved and desired cut planes) and errors on safe margin (minimal distance between the achieved cut planes and the tumor boundary). The location accuracy averaged 2.5 mm. Errors in safe margin averaged −0.8 mm. Instruments described in this study may improve bone tumor surgery within the pelvis by providing good cutting accuracy and clinically acceptable margins.
Minority Breast Cancer Survivors: The Association between Race/Ethnicity, Objective Sleep Disturbances, and Physical and Psychological Symptoms
Authors: Budhrani Pinky H. , Lengacher Cecile A. , Kip Kevin E. , Tofthagen Cindy , Jim Heather
Published: July 2014

Background. Limited research has been conducted on the moderating effect of race/ethnicity on objective sleep disturbances in breast cancer survivors (BCSs).Objective. To explore racial/ethnic differences in objective sleep disturbances among BCSs and their relationship with self-reported symptoms.Intervention/Methods. Sleep disturbance and symptoms were measured using actigraphy for 72 hours and self-reported questionnaires, respectively, among 79 BCSs. Analysis of covariance, Pearson’s correlation, and multivariate regression were used to analyze data.Results. Sixty (75.9%) participants listed their ethnicity as white, non-Hispanic and 19 (24.1%) as minority. Total sleep time was 395.9 minutes for white BCSs compared to 330.4 minutes for minority BCSs. Significant correlations were seen between sleep onset latency (SOL) and depression, SOL and fatigue, and sleep efficiency (SE) and fatigue among minority BCSs. Among white BCSs, significant correlations were seen between SE and pain and wake after sleep onset (WASO) and pain. The association between depression and SOL and fatigue and SOL appeared to be stronger in minority BCSs than white BCSs.Conclusions. Results indicate that white BCSs slept longer than minority BCSs, and race/ethnicity modified the effect of depression and fatigue on SOL, respectively.Implications for Practice. As part of survivorship care, race/ethnicity should be included as an essential component of comprehensive symptom assessments.
Cyclic Coupled Fixed Point Result Using Kannan Type Contractions
Authors: Choudhury Binayak S. , Maity Pranati
Published: July 2014

Putting several existing ideas together, in this paper we define the concept of cyclic coupled Kannan type contraction. We establish a strong coupled fixed point theorem for such mappings. The theorem is supported with an illustrative example.
The Association between Survival and the Pathologic Features of Periampullary Tumors Varies over Time
Authors: Plichta Jennifer K. , Godambe Anjali S. , Fridirici Zachary , Yong Sherri , Sinacore James M. , Abood Gerard J. , Aranha Gerard V.
Published: July 2014

Introduction. Several histopathologic features of periampullary tumors have been shown to be correlated with prognosis. We evaluated their association with mortality at multiple time points. Methods. A retrospective chart review identified 207 patients with periampullary adenocarcinomas who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2009. Clinicopathologic features were assessed, and the data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate methods. Results. In univariate analysis, perineural invasion had a strong association with 1-year mortality (OR 3.03, CI 1.42–6.47), and one lymph node (LN) increase in the LN ratio (LNR) equated with a 5-fold increase in mortality. In contrast, LN status (OR 6.42, CI 3.32–12.41) and perineural invasion (OR 5.44, CI 2.81–10.52) had the strongest associations with mortality at 3 years. Using Cox proportional hazards, perineural invasion (HR 2.61, CI 1.77–3.85) and LN status (HR 2.69, CI 1.84–3.95) had robust associations with overall mortality. Recursive partitioning analysis identified LNR as the most important risk factor for mortality at 1 and 3 years. Conclusions. Overall mortality was closely related to the LNR within the first year, while longer follow-up periods demonstrated a stronger association with perineural invasion and overall LN status. Therefore, the current staging for periampullary tumors may need to be updated to include the LNR.
Mechanisms Underlying the Analgesic Effect of Moxibustion on Visceral Pain in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Review
Authors: Huang Renjia , Zhao Jimeng , Wu Luyi , Dou Chuanzi , Liu Huirong , Weng Zhijun , Lu Yuan , Shi Yin , Wang Xiaomei , Zhou Cili , Wu Huangan
Published: July 2014

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder that causes recurrent abdominal (visceral) pain. Epidemiological data show that the incidence rate of IBS is as high as 25%. Most of the medications may lead to tolerance, addiction and toxic side effects. Moxibustion is an important component of traditional Chinese medicine and has been used to treat IBS‐like abdominal pain for several thousand years in China. As a mild treatment, moxibustion has been widely applied in clinical treatment of visceral pain in IBS. In recent years, it has played an irreplaceable role in alternative medicine. Extensive clinical studies have demonstrated that moxibustion for treatment of visceral pain is simple, convenient, and inexpensive, and it is being accepted by an increasing number of patients. There have not been many studies investigating the analgesic mechanisms of moxibustion. Studies exploring the analgesic mechanisms have mainly focused on visceral hypersensitivity, brain‐gut axis neuroendocrine system, and immune system. This paper reviews the latest developments in moxibustion use for treatment of visceral pain in IBS from these perspectives. It also evaluates potential problems in relevant studies on the mechanisms of moxibustion therapy to promote the application of moxibustion in the treatment of IBS.