bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First-principles calculations for transition phase, mechanical and thermodynamic properties of ZnS under extreme condition
Authors: Yang Tao , Liu Daijun , Ji Junyi , Chen Jianjun , Yu Yang , Wu Ruoxi
Published: November 2016

The structural and mechanical properties of ZnS in both B3 and B1 phases have been investigated by the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) within the plane-wave pseudopotential density functional theory (DFT). The obtained lattice parameters and bulk modulus of ZnS for both B3 and B1 structures are well in line with the available theoretical and experimental results. Using the enthalpy–pressure data, we have predicted that the phase transition pressure of ZnS from B3 to B1 is 17.26 GPa, which is in good agreement with previous experimental values. The hydrostatic pressure-dependent elastic properties of the two structures, such as bulk modulus, shear modulus and Young’s modulus, are discussed. Then, the mechanical characteristics of ZnS, including ductile/brittle behavior and elastic anisotropy of the two cubic single-crystal structures, are investigated in details. Furthermore, the thermodynamic properties of ZnS under extreme condition are explored by quasi-harmonic Debye modeling. The calculated results show that the ductility and elastic anisotropy increase with pressure clearly except the ductility of B1. Besides, the temperature and pressure dependencies of the heat capacity and the Debye temperature are obtained and analyzed in the wide ranges.
Nonlocal effects in metallic nanoparticles: The kinetic approach outlook
Authors: Tomchuk Petro M. , Butenko Danylo
Published: November 2016

For the metallic nanoparticles, smaller than the free electron path, an impact of the particle’s surface on the nonlocal effects emerging is shown. Light-induced current inside the particle begins to depend on the spatial derivatives of the field that leads to modification of Maxwell’s equations. Consequently, the results of Mie theory as well as definitions of the dielectric function and optical conductivity should be revisited. For the sphere-shaped nanoparticle, the explicit expression for the high-frequency current with account of nonlocality is obtained. The dependence of the nonlocal contribution on the light frequency and particle’s size is discussed.
Study on the influence of driving distraction on traffic flow considering the stochastic duration time of distraction
Authors: Xiao Yao , Shi Jing
Published: November 2016

This paper aims to study the traffic flow characteristics considering drivers’ distraction behavior, which is common and lasts for stochastic duration time. The distribution of distraction duration time and the influence of distraction on traffic flow are analyzed. The relationship among distraction duration time, probability of distraction occurrence and proportion of distraction is established by stochastic model. Then a modified optimal velocity model was proposed to simulate a two-lane road, taking the effect of distraction behavior into account. A survey was conducted to collect maximum speed, average speed, lane change frequency and headway of vehicle when distracted. The results suggest that distraction behavior has significant negative influence on traffic flow rate and increases the lane changing frequency. Short-time distraction seems to have smaller impact on traffic flow than long-time distraction. This model simulates the distraction behavior very well and distracted drivers have lower mean speed, lower lane changing frequency, longer headway and are overtaken by more vehicles in simulation. This study provided a good model to analyze distraction behavior in traffic flow and pointed out an important factor affecting the traffic flow efficiency.
Investigation of high thickness holographic gratings in acrylamide-based photopolymer
Authors: Wang Heng , Xu Shifeng , Ma Jia , Wang Zhaoyang , Hou Enzhu
Published: November 2016

We studied the holographic characteristics of acrylamide-based photopolymer layers ranging in thickness from 300 [Formula: see text] to 1000 [Formula: see text]. Scattering patterns of various materials were presented, and both transmittance and scattering ratio were measured. Then, theoretical and experimental Bragg selectivity curves of two samples with thicknesses of 300 [Formula: see text] and 510 [Formula: see text] were analyzed, demonstrating the effective optical thickness inside photopolymer, which was responsible for the width of Bragg selectivity curve. Through the simulation for the spatial dynamics of refractive index distribution inside materials with different thicknesses, the attenuation of grating along the direction of thickness inside photopolymer was presented. Moreover, the photo-induced polymer chain length was evaluated, and a growing tendency of polymer chain length as increasing depth of material thickness was presented for the first time, in other words, there were polymers with longer chain length in deeper layer of material.
TRIBOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF TiO2/SiO2 DOUBLE LAYER COATINGS DEPOSITED ON CP-Ti
Authors: ÇOMAKLI O. , YAZICI M. , YETIM T. , YETIM A. F. , ÇELIK A.
Published: November 2016

In the present paper, the influences of different double layer on wear and scratch performances of commercially pure Titanium (CP-Ti) were investigated. TiO2/SiO2 and SiO2/TiO2 double layer coatings were deposited on CP-Ti by sol–gel dip coating process and calcined at 750[Formula: see text]C. The phase structure, cross-sectional morphology, composition, wear track morphologies, adhesion properties, hardness and roughness of uncoated and coated samples were characterized with X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nano-indentation technique, scratch tester and 3D profilometer. Also, the tribological performances of all samples were investigated by a pin-on-disc tribo-tester against Al2O3 ball. Results showed that hardness, elastic modulus and adhesion resistance of double layer coated samples were higher than untreated CP-Ti. It was found that these properties of TiO2/SiO2 double layer coatings have higher than SiO2/TiO2 double layer coating. Additionally, the lowest friction coefficient and wear rates were obtained from TiO2/SiO2 double layer coatings. Therefore, it was seen that phase structure, hardness and film adhesion are important factors on the tribological properties of double layer coatings.
HOT CORROSION OF YTTRIUM STABILIZED ZIRCONIA COATINGS DEPOSITED BY AIR PLASMA SPRAY ON A NICKEL-BASED SUPERALLOY
Authors: VALLEJO N. DIAZ , SANCHEZ O. , CAICEDO J. C. , APERADOR W. , ZAMBRANO G.
Published: November 2016

In this research, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Tafel analysis were utilized to study the hot corrosion performance at 700[Formula: see text]C of air plasma-sprayed (APS) yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) coatings with a NiCrAlY bond coat grown by high velocity oxygen fuel spraying (HVOF), deposited on an INCONEL 625 substrate, in contact with corrosive solids salts as vanadium pentoxide V2O5 and sodium sulfate Na2SO4. The EIS data were interpreted based on proposed equivalent electrical circuits using a suitable fitting procedure performed with Echem AnalystTM Software. Phase transformations and microstructural development were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), with Rietveld refinement for quantitative phase analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to determinate the coating morphology and corrosion products. The XRD analysis indicated that the reaction between sodium vanadate (NaVO[Formula: see text] and yttrium oxide (Y2O[Formula: see text] produces yttrium vanadate (YVO[Formula: see text] and leads to the transformation from tetragonal to monoclinic zirconia phase.
A new total variation model for restoring blurred and speckle noisy images
Authors: Lu Jian , Chen Yupeng , Zou Yuru , Shen Lixin
Published: November 2016

In coherent imaging systems, such as the synthetic aperture radar (SAR), the observed images are affected by multiplicative speckle noise. This paper proposes a new variational model based on I-divergence for restoring blurred images with speckle noise. The model minimizes the sum of an I-divergence data fidelity term, a new quadratic penalty term based on the statistical property of the noise and the total-variation regularization term. The existence and uniqueness of a solution of the proposed model with some other characteristics are analyzed. Furthermore, an iterative algorithm is introduced to solve the proposed variational model. Our numerical experiments indicate that the proposed method performs favorably.
PD/PID Controller Design for Seismic Control of High-Rise Buildings Using Multi-Objective Optimization: A Comparative Study with LQR Controller
Authors: Etedali Sadegh , Tavakoli Saeed
Published: November 2016

This paper developed multi-objective optimization design of proportional–derivative (PD) and proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controllers for seismic control of high-rise buildings. The case study is an 11-story realistic building equipped with active tuned mass damper (ATMD). Four earthquakes and nine performance indices are taken into account to assess the performance of the controllers. To create a good trade-off between the performance and robustness of the closed-loop structural system, a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm, NSGA-II, is employed. To evaluate the degree of robustness of the controllers, four structural models with uncertainties in the nominal model of the structure is considered. For comparison purposes, a linear quadratic regulator (LQR) controller is also designed in the numerical simulations. Simulation results show that the proposed PD and PID controllers significantly perform better than the LQR in reduction of structural responses. Also, it is shown that the LQR does not provide a good performance in strong earthquakes. However, PD and PID controllers are able to significantly reduce structural responses. Moreover, it is shown that the PID has a better performance than the PD. The results also show that the proposed controllers are capable of maintaining a desired performance in the presence of modeling errors. They also have several advantages over modern controllers in terms of simplicity and reduction of required sensors and computational resources in tall buildings.
The Drosophila indirect flight muscle myosin heavy chain isoform is insufficient to transform the jump muscle into a highly stretch-activated muscle type
Authors: Zhao Cuiping , Swank Douglas M.
Published: November 2016

Stretch activation (SA) is a delayed increase in force that enables high power and efficiency from a cyclically contracting muscle. SA exists in various degrees in almost all muscle types. In Drosophila, the indirect flight muscle (IFM) displays exceptionally high SA force production ( FSA), whereas the jump muscle produces only minimal FSA. We previously found that expressing an embryonic (EMB) myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoform in the jump muscle transforms it into a moderately SA muscle type and enables positive cyclical power generation. To investigate whether variation in MHC isoforms is sufficient to produce even higher FSA, we substituted the IFM MHC isoform (IFI) into the jump muscle. Surprisingly, we found that IFI only caused a 1.7-fold increase in FSA, less than half the increase previously observed with EMB, and only at a high Pi concentration, 16 mM. This IFI-induced FSA is much less than what occurs in IFM, relative to isometric tension, and did not enable positive cyclical power generation by the jump muscle. Both isometric tension and FSA of control fibers decreased with increasing Pi concentration. However, for IFI-expressing fibers, only isometric tension decreased. The rate of FSA generation was ~1.5-fold faster for IFI fibers than control fibers, and both rates were Pi dependent. We conclude that MHC isoforms can alter FSA and hence cyclical power generation but that isoforms can only endow a muscle type with moderate FSA. Highly SA muscle types, such as IFM, likely use a different or additional mechanism.
Novel insights into fecal incontinence in men
Authors: Mazor Yoav , Jones Michael , Andrews Alison , Kellow John E. , Malcolm Allison
Published: November 2016

Fecal incontinence (FI) in men is common, yet data on sex differences in clinical features, physiology, and treatment are scarce. Our aim was to provide insights into FI in males compared with females. Prospectively collected data from 73 men and 596 women with FI in a tertiary referral center were analyzed. Anorectal physiology, clinical characteristics, and outcome of instrumented biofeedback (BF) were recorded. Thirty-one men with FI proceeded to BF and were matched with 62 age-matched women with FI who underwent BF. Men with FI had higher resting, squeeze, and cough anal sphincter pressures ( P < 0.001) and were more able to hold a sustained squeeze compared with women ( P = 0.04). Men with FI had higher rectal pressure and less inadequate rectal pressure on strain and higher sensory thresholds ( P < 0.05). Men, but not women, with isolated soiling had higher anal resting and squeeze pressures compared with those with overt FI ( P < 0.05). Men were less likely to undergo BF when offered compared with women. Baseline symptom severity did not differ between the groups. In men, the absence of an organic cause for the FI and the presence of overt FI, but not isolated soiling, were correlated with improvement in patient satisfaction following BF. The outcomes of 50% reduction in FI episodes, physician assessment, symptoms, and quality of life scores after BF all significantly improved in men similarly to women. We conclude that men, compared with women, with FI have unique clinical features and physiology and are less likely to have investigations and treatment despite successful outcome with BF. Future studies to customize treatment in males and determine barriers to therapy are warranted.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Fecal incontinence in men is common, yet data on sex differences in clinical features, physiology, and treatment are scarce. We provide evidence that men, compared with women, with fecal incontinence have unique clinical features and physiology and are less likely to have investigations and treatment despite successful outcome with anorectal biofeedback therapy.
Intrauterine growth restriction influences vascular remodeling and stiffening in the weanling rat more than sex or diet
Authors: Dodson R. Blair , Miller Thomas A. , Powers Kyle , Yang Yueqin , Yu Baifeng , Albertine Kurt H. , Zinkhan Erin K.
Published: November 2016

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) increases the incidence of adult cardiovascular disease (CVD). The sex-specific developmental mechanisms for IUGR-induced and Western high-fat diet (HFD) modification of CVD remain poorly understood. We hypothesized a maternal HFD in the Sprague-Dawley rat would augment IUGR-induced CVD in the offspring through decreased cardiac function and increased extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and stiffness in a sex-specific manner. HFD or regular diet (Reg) was given from 5 wk before mating through postnatal day (PND) 21. IUGR was induced by uterine artery ligation at embryonic day 19.5 (term = 21.5 days). At PND 21, echocardiographic assessments were made and carotid arteries tested for vascular compliance using pressure myography. Arterial samples were quantified for ECM constituents or fixed for histologic evaluation. The insult of IUGR (IUGR + Reg and IUGR + HFD) led to increased mechanical stiffness in both sexes ( P < 0.05). The combination of IUGR + HFD increased diastolic blood pressure 47% in males (M) and 35% in females (F) compared with the Con + Reg ( P < 0.05). ECM remodeling in IUGR + HFD caused fewer (M = −29%, F = −24%) but thicker elastin bands (M = 18%, F = 18%) and increased total collagen (M = 49%, F = 34%) compared with Con + Reg arteries. Remodeling in IUGR + HFD males increased medial collagen and soluble collagen ( P < 0.05). Remodeling in IUGR + HFD females increased adventitial collagen and wall thickness ( P < 0.05) and decreased matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), advanced glycosylation end products (AGE), and receptor AGE (RAGE; P < 0.05). In summary, both IUGR + Reg and IUGR + HFD remodel ECM in PND 21 rats. While IUGR + HFD increases blood pressure, IUGR but not HFD increases vascular stiffness suggesting a specific mechanism of vascular remodeling that can be targeted to limit future disease.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We report intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) increases vascular stiffening in both male and female rats through increased collagen content and altered elastin structure more than a high-fat diet (HFD) alone. Our study shows the importance of stiffness supporting the hypothesis that there are physiologic differences and potential windows for early intervention targeting vascular remodeling mechanisms.
Separate and shared sympathetic outflow to white and brown fat coordinately regulates thermoregulation and beige adipocyte recruitment
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc Ly T. , Barr Candace L. , Ryu Vitaly , Cao Qiang , Xue Bingzhong , Bartness Timothy J.
Published: November 2016

White adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT) are innervated and regulated by the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). It is not clear, however, whether there are shared or separate central SNS outflows to WAT and BAT that regulate their function. We injected two isogenic strains of pseudorabies virus, a retrograde transneuronal viral tract tracer, with unique fluorescent reporters into interscapular BAT (IBAT) and inguinal WAT (IWAT) of the same Siberian hamsters to define SNS pathways to both. To test the functional importance of SNS coordinated control of BAT and WAT, we exposed hamsters with denervated SNS nerves to IBAT to 4°C for 16–24 h and measured core and fat temperatures and norepinephrine turnover (NETO) and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) expression in fat tissues. Overall, there were more SNS neurons innervating IBAT than IWAT across the neuroaxis. However, there was a greater percentage of singly labeled IWAT neurons in midbrain reticular nuclei than singly labeled IBAT neurons. The hindbrain had ~30–40% of doubly labeled neurons while the forebrain had ~25% suggesting shared SNS circuitry to BAT and WAT across the brain. The raphe nucleus, a key region in thermoregulation, had ~40% doubly labeled neurons. Hamsters with IBAT SNS denervation maintained core body temperature during acute cold challenge and had increased beige adipocyte formation in IWAT. They also had increased IWAT NETO, temperature, and UCP1 expression compared with intact hamsters. These data provide strong neuroanatomical and functional evidence of WAT and BAT SNS cross talk for thermoregulation and beige adipocyte formation.
A simple method to ensure homogeneous drug distribution during intrarenal infusion
Authors: Postnov Dmitry D. , Salomonsson Max , Sorensen Charlotte M. , Sosnovtseva Olga
Published: November 2016

Intrarenal drug infusion plays an important role in renal experimental research. Laminar flow of the blood can cause streaming and inhomogeneous intrarenal distribution of infused drugs. We suggest a simple method to achieve a homogeneous intravascular distribution of drugs infused into the renal artery of anesthetized rats. The method employs a multiple sidehole catheter inserted into the renal artery, which enables an efficient drug mixing with the arterial blood. To verify the efficiency of this method, we use laser speckle imaging and renal artery flowmetry. The results show that, compared with the conventional single-hole catheter, the multiple sidehole catheter provides a more uniform drug distribution and a homogenous vascular response on the surface of the kidney.
A mechanistic physicochemical model of carbon dioxide transport in blood
Authors: O’Neill David P. , Robbins Peter A.
Published: November 2016

A number of mathematical models have been produced that, given the Pco2and Po2of blood, will calculate the total concentrations for CO2and O2in blood. However, all these models contain at least some empirical features, and thus do not represent all of the underlying physicochemical processes in an entirely mechanistic manner. The aim of this study was to develop a physicochemical model of CO2carriage by the blood to determine whether our understanding of the physical chemistry of the major chemical components of blood together with their interactions is sufficiently strong to predict the physiological properties of CO2carriage by whole blood. Standard values are used for the ionic composition of the blood, the plasma albumin concentration, and the hemoglobin concentration. All Kmvalues required for the model are taken from the literature. The distribution of bicarbonate, chloride, and H+ions across the red blood cell membrane follows that of a Gibbs-Donnan equilibrium. The system of equations that results is solved numerically using constraints for mass balance and electroneutrality. The model reproduces the phenomena associated with CO2carriage, including the magnitude of the Haldane effect, very well. The structural nature of the model allows various hypothetical scenarios to be explored. Here we examine the effects of 1) removing the ability of hemoglobin to form carbamino compounds; 2) allowing a degree of Cl−binding to deoxygenated hemoglobin; and 3) removing the chloride (Hamburger) shift. The insights gained could not have been obtained from empirical models.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study is the first to incorporate a mechanistic model of chloride-bicarbonate exchange between the erythrocyte and plasma into a full physicochemical model of the carriage of carbon dioxide in blood. The mechanistic nature of the model allowed a theoretical study of the quantitative significance for carbon dioxide transport of carbamino compound formation; the putative binding of chloride to deoxygenated hemoglobin, and the chloride (Hamburger) shift.
Aerobic exercise in humans mobilizes HSCs in an intensity-dependent manner
Authors: Baker Jeff M. , Nederveen Joshua P. , Parise Gianni
Published: November 2016

Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells are necessary to maintain, repair, and reconstitute the hematopoietic blood cell system. Mobilization of these cells from bone marrow to blood can be greatly increased under certain conditions, one such being exercise. The purpose of this study was to identify the importance of exercise intensity in hematopoietic mobilization, to better understand the mobilization kinetics postexercise, and to determine if exercise is capable of mobilizing several specific populations of hematopoietic cells that have clinical relevance in a transplant setting. Healthy individuals were exercised on a cycle ergometer at 70% of their peak work rate (WRpeak) until volitional fatigue and at 30% of their WRpeakwork matched to the 70% WRpeakbout. Blood was collected before, immediately post, and 10, 30, and 60 min postexercise. Total blood cells, hematocrit, and mononuclear cells isolated by density gradient centrifugation were counted. Specific populations of hematopoietic stem cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Mononuclear cells, CD34+, CD34+/CD38−, CD34+/CD110+, CD3−/CD16+/CD56+, CD11c+/CD123−, and CD11c−/CD123+cells per millilter of blood increased postexercise. Overall, the 70% WRpeakexercise group showed greater mobilization immediately postexercise, while there was no observable increase in mobilization in the work matched 30% WRpeakexercise group. Mobilization of specific populations of hematopoietic cells mirrored changes in the general mobilization of mononuclear cells, suggesting that exercise serves as a nonspecific mobilization stimulus. Evidently, higher intensity exercise is capable of mobilizing hematopoietic cells to a large extent and immediately postexercise is an ideal time point for their collection.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Here we demonstrate for the first time that mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) through exercise is intensity dependent, with the greatest mobilization occurring immediately after high-intensity exercise. As well, we show that exercise is a general stimulus for mobilization: increases in specific HSC populations are reliant on general mononuclear cell mobilization. Finally, we demonstrate no differences in mobilization between groups with different aerobic fitness.
The Role of Time Perspective, Motivation, Attitude, and Preparation in Educational Choice and Study Progress
Authors: Slijper Jeany , Kunnen E. Saskia , Onstenk Jeroen , van Geert Paul
Published: November 2016

The present study examined the relation between study progress in the first year of education and different aspects of the process of study choice of 89 students of higher professional education. This study consists of three parts. Firstly, we explored which concepts are important in open interviews concerning choice of study and study progress. Secondly, we examined the relations between future time perspective and motivation on the one hand and study success on the other hand. Students who focus on the here and now generally continued their studies while students focusing on the future and the ulterior profession, presenting an extended future time perspective, drop out more frequently. Intrinsic motivation is strongly related to positive study progress, and extrinsic controlled motivation is strongly related to dropout. Extrinsic autonomous motivation is in between. Furthermore, students’ attitudes towards their future studies were examined in relation to their study progress. The results show that students with an attitude characterized by doubt have the highest risk to drop out. Finally, comparing different orientation programs, we show that students who prepare themselves more intensively before making their choice show less dropout.
Rapid Quantitative Analysis of Forest Biomass Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Partial Least Squares Regression
Authors: Acquah Gifty E. , Via Brian K. , Fasina Oladiran O. , Eckhardt Lori G.
Published: November 2016

Fourier transform infrared reflectance (FTIR) spectroscopy has been used to predict properties of forest logging residue, a very heterogeneous feedstock material. Properties studied included the chemical composition, thermal reactivity, and energy content. The ability to rapidly determine these properties is vital in the optimization of conversion technologies for the successful commercialization of biobased products. Partial least squares regression of first derivative treated FTIR spectra had good correlations with the conventionally measured properties. For the chemical composition, constructed models generally did a better job of predicting the extractives and lignin content than the carbohydrates. In predicting the thermochemical properties, models for volatile matter and fixed carbon performed very well (i.e.,R2> 0.80, RPD > 2.0). The effect of reducing the wavenumber range to the fingerprint region for PLS modeling and the relationship between the chemical composition and higher heating value of logging residue were also explored. This study is new and different in that it is the first to use FTIR spectroscopy to quantitatively analyze forest logging residue, an abundant resource that can be used as a feedstock in the emerging low carbon economy. Furthermore, it provides a complete and systematic characterization of this heterogeneous raw material.
Discharge against Medical Advice at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Gujarat, India
Authors: Devpura Bhanu , Bhadesia Pranav , Nimbalkar Somashekhar , Desai Sandeep , Phatak Ajay
Published: November 2016

Objective. We explored reasons for discharged against medical advice (DAMA) of neonates from a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) through in-depth interviews of the parents/guardians. Methods. Of 456 babies admitted to NICU during April 2014 to March 2015, 116 babies were DAMA. Parents of randomly selected 50 babies of these 116, residing within 50 kilometers, were approached for in-depth interviews at their homes. Audio recordings were done and manually transcribed, analyzed in detail to explore common threads leading to DAMA. Basic demographic information of the newborns was retrieved from hospital records. Results. The prevalence of DAMA was 25.4%. Of 50 parents approached, 41 in-depth interviews were completed. Nonaffordability (38.6%), no improvement (14.6%), poor prognosis (12%), and inappropriate behavior of the patient relation office personnel (10.6%) were major factors contributing to DAMA. Parents of 6.6% neonates wanted guarantee of survival and 5.3% parents reported poor behavior of nurses. No gender bias was observed related to DAMA. One-third of neonates (34.1%) were DAMA on first day of admission. Conclusions. The issue of DAMA needs attention. Besides nonaffordability and clinical characteristics of the baby, communication (breaking bad news, counseling, etc.) and lack of adequate infrastructure for relatives emerged as modifiable factors leading to DAMA.
A Citizen-Science Study Documents Environmental Exposures and Asthma Prevalence in Two Communities
Authors: Eiffert Samantha , Noibi Yomi , Vesper Stephen , Downs Jonathan , Fulk Florence , Wallace Juanita , Pearson Melanie , Winquist Andrea
Published: November 2016

A citizen-science study was conducted in two low-income, flood-prone communities in Atlanta, Georgia, in order to document environmental exposures and the prevalence of occupant asthma. Teams consisting of a public-health graduate student and a resident from one of the two communities administered a questionnaire, inspected residences for mold growth, and collected a dust sample for quantifying mold contamination. The dust samples were analyzed for the 36 molds that make up the Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI). Most residents (76%) were renters. The median duration of residence was 2.5 years. Although only 12% of occupants reported a history of flooding, 46% reported at least one water leak. Homes with visible mold (35%) had significantly (P<0.05) higher mean ERMI values compared to homes without (14.0 versus 9.6). The prevalence of self-reported, current asthma among participants was 14%. In logistic regression models controlling for indoor smoking, among participants residing at their current residence for two years or less, a positive association was observed between asthma and the homes’ ERMI values (adjusted odds ratio per unit increase in ERMI = 1.12, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.01–1.25; two-tailedP=0.04). Documentation of the exposures and asthma prevalence has been presented to the communities and public officials. Community-based organizations have taken responsibility for planning and implementing activities in response to the study findings.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for the Anomalous Left Coronary Artery Originating from the Noncoronary Cusp
Authors: Kuno Toshiki , Numasawa Yohei , Takahsashi Toshiyuki
Published: November 2016

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for anomalous left coronary artery (LCA) originating from the noncoronary cusp (NCC) is challenging, as it poses difficulties with the engagement of the guiding catheter and the establishment of backup support. This report examines the case of a 69-year-old woman with unstable angina of anomalous LCA origin. The computed tomography showed a diffuse plaque in the middle of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery and an anomalous LCA originating from the NCC. After successful engagement of a straightened Judkins-Left diagnostic catheter, the angiography revealed a diffuse plaque in the middle of the LAD artery. We then engaged a Judkins-Right guiding catheter. Due to the weak backup support of the guiding catheter, we used another wire to stabilize it, and the stent was then implanted successfully. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of PCI for an anomalous LCA originating from the NCC.
The Construction of Unsmooth Pulse Images in Traditional Chinese Medicine Based on Wave Intensity Technology
Authors: Luo Jie-wei , Guo Si-wei , Cao Shuang-shuang , Lin Ning , Ye Zhen-sheng , Wei Shi-chao , Zheng Xing-yu , Guo Miao-miao , Meng Xiao-rong , Huang Fang-meng
Published: November 2016

Unsmooth pulse is one of the most important pulses in TCM diagnostics. We constructed the wave intensity (WI) images of unsmooth pulse based on the pressure wave (P), flow velocity wave (U), and WI [(dP/dt)(dU/dt)] by ALOKA Prosound α 10 Color Doppler. The characteristic of Cunkou normal pulse could be summarized as follows: compared to Renying pulse, its W1 amplitude is smaller and NA wave is more obvious, while the W2 wave is indistinct or even invisible, and the R‐1st is longer than that of Renying pulse. The principal U wave of Renying pulse looks like “Λ” shape, while it looks like an arched blunt “∩” shape in Cunkou pulse, and the amplitude of U wave in Cunkou pulse is smaller. The direction of the principal U wave in Cunkou unsmooth pulse is up, which shows hoof boots “h” shape with high amplitude and a significant notch on declined branch; the amplitude of predicrotic wave in unsmooth pulse P wave is significantly higher, which could be even higher than that of h1, resulting in early appearance of h3 or integrating with h1, which forms a wide and blunt peak. Unsmooth pulse shows poorer vascular elasticity and greater vascular stiffness.
Automated Fluid Management for Treatment of Rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Beilstein Christian M. , Prowle John R. , Kirwan Christopher J.
Published: November 2016

Purpose. Fluid therapy aimed at increasing urine output is a commonly employed strategy to prevent acute kidney injury (AKI) in critically ill patients with rhabdomyolysis. Automated fluid management has the potential to optimise urine output while avoiding fluid accumulation in rhabdomyolysis patients. Methods. In a single centre clinical service evaluation we compared a convenience sample of critically ill adults with rhabdomyolysis treated with automated fluid management using the RenalGuard® device to patients managed with manual fluid adjustment following our standard rhabdomyolysis protocol. Primary outcome was number of hours with urine output >2 mL/kg during first 48 h of therapy. Results. Eight patients treated with RenalGuard were compared to 28 patients treated with manual fluid management. Number of hours of target urine output was greater in the RenalGuard versus the Standard group (176/312 (56.4%) versus 534/1305 (40.9%); p<0.01). Urine output was significantly higher in the first 24 h in the RenalGuard group (median (IQR) 4033 mL (3682–7363) versus 2913 mL (2263–4188 mL); p<0.01). Fluid balance, electrolyte, diuretics, and bicarbonate use were comparable between groups. Conclusions. Automated fluid management resulted in a higher urine output more quickly in the treatment of rhabdomyolysis. Further research is needed to analyse the effect of diuresis-matched hydration for the prevention of AKI in rhabdomyolysis.
Effect of Loquat Leaf Extract on Muscle Strength, Muscle Mass, and Muscle Function in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double‐Blinded, and Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Cho Young Hye , Lee Sang Yeoup , Kim Cheol Min , Kim Nam Deuk , Choe Sangmin , Lee Chang-Hyung , Shin Jin-Hong
Published: November 2016

Ursolic acid (UA) is the major active component of the loquat leaf extract (LLE) and several previous studies have indicated that UA may have the ability to prevent skeletal muscle atrophy. Therefore, we conducted a randomized, double‐blind, and placebo‐controlled study to investigate the effects of the LLE on muscle strength, muscle mass, muscle function, and metabolic markers in healthy adults; the safety of the compound was also evaluated. We examined the peak torque/body weight at 60°/s knee extension, handgrip strength, skeletal muscle mass, physical performance, and metabolic parameters at baseline, as well as after 4 and 12 weeks of intervention. Either 500 mg of LLE (50.94 mg of UA) or a placebo was administered to fifty‐four healthy adults each day for 12 weeks; no differences in muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance were observed between the two groups. However, the right‐handgrip strength of female subjects in the LLE group was found to be significantly better than that of subjects in the control group (P = 0.047). Further studies are required to determine the optimal dose and duration of LLE supplementation to confirm the first‐stage study results for clinical application. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier is NCT02401113.
Serous Cystadenocarcinoma Arising in Presumed Vitelline Duct Remnant: A Case Report and Implications in the Management of Cancer of Unknown Primary
Authors: Lei Li , Deisch Jeremy K.
Published: November 2016

Background. Malignant neoplasms arising in Meckel’s diverticulum, a vitelline duct remnant, are rare yet well-documented.Case Presentation. A 53-year-old previously healthy female presented with an enlarging midline abdominal wall mass. A computed tomography scan revealed a mass involving the linea alba, bilateral rectus abdominis, and subcutaneous fat. Extensive clinical workup failed to demonstrate other lesions, except local and paratracheal/hilar lymphadenopathy. Histopathologic examination of the resected tumor demonstrated a spectrum of serous neoplasia including serous cystadenoma, papillary serous carcinoma with numerous Psammoma bodies, and a poorly differentiated component. Immunophenotypically, the tumor cells were strongly positive for CK7, CK19, CA19.9, and MUC1 but negative for other lineage markers, findings suggestive of pancreatobiliary type differentiation. The patient died of the disease one year after the initial presentation despite chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.Conclusion. We present a case of adenocarcinoma arising from the anterior midline abdominal wall, from presumed vitelline duct remnant, with histologic and immunophenotypic features of serous cystadenocarcinoma of pancreatobiliary origin. Though the origin from vitelline duct remnant is difficult to prove in this single case, understanding tumorigenesis of embryonic remnant origin is potentially important to improve the management of cancer of unknown primary.
Successful Pregnancy Outcome in Women with Recurrent IVF Failure and Anti-hCG Autoimmunity: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Muller Valeria , Ob’edkova Ksenia , Krikheli Inna , Kogan Igor , Fedorova Irina , Lesik Elena , Komarova Evgenia , Gzgzyan Alexandr
Published: November 2016

We report three cases of effective management of infertility in women with a history of repeated unsuccessful IVF attempts, who have developed antibodies to hCG. A novel approach to conservative treatment of immunologic reproductive failure, suggested for selected patients, included membrane plasmapheresis, combined prednisolone, and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. No adverse side effects were observed; all cases resulted in pregnancy and subsequent life births. In order to be given an adequate efficient treatment, women with recurrent implantation failure should be suspected for autoimmune factor of infertility and its possible association with anti-hCG autoimmunity.
Use of a Secondary Current Sensor in Plasma during Electron-Beam Welding with Focus Scanning for Process Control
Authors: Trushnikov Dmitriy , Krotova Elena , Koleva Elena
Published: November 2016

We consider questions of building a closed-loop focus control system for electron-beam welding. As a feedback signal, we use the secondary current in the plasma that forms above the welding zone. This article presents a model of a secondary current sensor in plasma during electron-beam welding with focus scanning. A comparison of modeled results with experimental data confirms the adequacy of the model. We show that the best results for focus control are obtained when using phase relationships rather than amplitude relationships. We outline the principles for building an EBW focus control system based on parameters of the secondary current in plasma. We simulate the work of a control system’s circuits and demonstrate the stability of the synthesized system. We have conducted pilot tests on an experimental prototype.
Two Novel Grey System Models and Their Applications on Landslide Forecasting
Authors: Ma De-Yi , Li Jian-Lin
Published: November 2016

For the small sample poor information, grey model is one of the good forecasting models. However, the simulation curve of original data is not consistent with that of the data by translations. In this paper, we present two novel grey system models, that is, generalized grey model and generalized discrete grey model. Compared with grey model, we prove that the simulation curve of original data is consistent with that of the new data by translations for the novel grey model, which was also demonstrated by the results of practical numerical examples.
Impulsive Control Strategy for a Nonautonomous Food-Chain System with Multiple Delays
Authors: Tian Baodan , Qiu Yanhong , Ding Yucai
Published: November 2016

A nonautonomous food-chain system with Holling II functional response is studied, in which multiple delays of digestion are also considered. By applying techniques in differential inequalities, comparison theorem in ordinary differential equations, impulsive differential equations, and functional differential equations, some effective control strategies are obtained for the permanence of the system. Furthermore, effects of some important coefficients and delays on the permanence of the system are intuitively and clearly shown by series of numerical examples.
Coupling Characteristics of Fused Optical Fiber Coupler Formed with Single-Mode Fiber and Photonic Crystal Fiber Having Air Hole Collapsed Taper
Authors: Yokota Hirohisa , Yashima Hirotomo , Imai Yoh , Sasaki Yutaka
Published: November 2016

Fused coupler forming with a single-mode fiber (SMF) and a photonic crystal fiber (PCF) is one of the solutions for optical coupling from a light source to a PCF. In this paper, we presented coupling characteristics of a fused fiber coupler formed with an ordinary SMF and a PCF having air hole collapsed taper. A prototype of SMF-PCF coupler with air hole collapsed taper was fabricated using CO2 laser irradiation. The coupling efficiency from SMF to PCF was −6.2 dB at 1554 nm wavelength in the fabricated coupler. The structure of the SMF-PCF coupler to obtain high coupling efficiency was theoretically clarified by beam propagation analysis using an equivalent model of the coupler with simplification. It was clarified that appropriately choosing the prestretched or etched SMF diameter and the length of air hole collapsed region was effective to obtain high coupling efficiency that was a result of high extinction ratio at cross port and low excess loss. We also demonstrated that the diameter of prestretched SMF to obtain high coupling efficiency was insensitive to the air hole diameter ratio to pitch of the PCF in the air hole collapsed SMF-PCF coupler.
Stability of Thawed Apheresis Fresh-Frozen Plasma Stored for up to 120 Hours at 1°C to 6°C
Authors: Sheffield William P. , Bhakta Varsha , Yi Qi-Long , Jenkins Craig
Published: November 2016

Regulations concerning the storage of transfusable plasma differ internationally. In Canada, plasma obtained from whole blood donations and frozen within 24 hours of phlebotomy (frozen plasma, FP) may be thawed and transfused within 120 hours of refrigerated storage. However, plasma frozen within 8 hours of phlebotomy following apheresis donation (FFPA) must be transfused within 24 hours of thawing and refrigeration. Our objectives were to measure coagulation factors (F) V, VII, and VIII, fibrinogen activities, and the prothrombin time (PT) in thawed refrigerated FFPA at 0, 24, and 120 hours of storage and to compare these values to those in thawed refrigerated FP. Fibrinogen activity remained unchanged over time, while mean factor levels in 28 FFPA units declined by 17% (FV), 19.7% (FVII), and 54.6% (FVIII) over 120 hours, while PT values rose to 7.6%. Factor activities were significantly higher in FFPA than FP after 120 hours of refrigerated storage. Residual FVIII activities in thawed FFPA met predefined noninferiority criteria compared to thawed FP after 120 hours. These results support a change in Canadian regulations to permit transfusion of thawed FFPA made in a closed system and refrigerated for up to 120 hours, one that could reduce wastage of transfusable plasma.
Three-Dimensional Integrated Guidance and Control for Near Space Interceptor Based on Robust Adaptive Backstepping Approach
Authors: Gao Changsheng , Jiang Chunwang , Zhang Yan , Jing Wuxing
Published: November 2016

This study presents a novel integrated guidance and control method for near space interceptor, considering the coupling among different channels of the missile dynamics, which makes the most of the overall performance of guidance and control system. Initially, three-dimensional integrated guidance and control model is employed by combining the interceptor-target relative motion model with the nonlinear dynamics of the interceptor, which establishes a direct relationship between the interceptor-target relative motion and the deflections of aerodynamic fins. Subsequently, regarding the acceleration of the target as bounded uncertainty of the system, an integrated guidance and control algorithm is designed based on robust adaptive backstepping method, with the upper bound of the uncertainties unknown. Moreover, a nonlinear tracking differentiator is introduced to reduce the “compute explosion” caused by backstepping method. It is proved that tracking errors of the state and the upper bound of the uncertainties converge to the neighborhoods of the origin exponentially. Finally, simulations results show that, compared to the conventional guidance and control design, the algorithm proposed in this paper has greater advantages in miss distance, required normal overload, and flight stability, especially when attacking high-maneuvering targets.
Bullous Dermatosis in an End-Stage Renal Disease Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Bhat Zeenat Yousuf , Abu Minshar Marwan , Imran Nashat , Thompson Andrew , Malik Yahya Osman
Published: November 2016

Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease including ESRD patients may present with a wide spectrum of cutaneous abnormalities, ranging from xerosis to hyperpigmentation to severe deforming necrotizing lesions. Skin problems are not uncommon in this population of patients, with a clinical presentation that can be quite bizarre, mandating a long list of differential diagnostic possibilities, and subsequent rise of a puzzling diagnostic challenge. We describe an ESRD patient who presented with blistering, nonhealing ulcerative lesions with a diagnostic skin biopsy revealing a mixed pattern of linear IgA bullous dermatosis and dermatitis herpetiformis. A clinical remission could be achieved with pulse intravenous steroids followed by oral maintenance in combination with dapsone, with no evidence of recurrence.
Reproductive Toxicities Caused by Swainsonine from Locoweed in Mice
Authors: Wu Chenchen , Feng Ke , Lu Dezhang , Yan Dujian , Han Tiesuo , Zhao Baoyu
Published: November 2016

Swainsonine is the primary toxin in locoweeds. It causes intention tremors, reproductive dysfunction, emaciation, and death. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the potential reproductive and developmental toxicities caused by swainsonine in mice. The treatment groups consisting of three generations of mice were given a range of concentrations of swainsonine by intraperitoneal injection (2.50 mg/kg body weight (BW), 1.20 mg/kg BW, 0.60 mg/kg BW, and 0 mg/kg BW). The 0 mg/kg BW group exhibited significantly fewer estrous cycles and an increased number of estrous ones compared to the 2.50 mg/kg BW, 1.20 mg/kg BW, and 0.60 mg/kg BW groups(P<0.05). All three generations of mice treated with swainsonine had significantly higher spleen, liver, and kidney indices and significantly lower body weights compared to the 0 mg/kg BW group(P<0.05). For the first and second generations of treatment group, the copulation indices and the numbers of live pups on postnatal days (PND) 0, 4, and 15 were significantly decreased compared to those of the 0 mg/kg BW group(P<0.05). The fertility and gestation indices of the treatment group of the first generation were significantly increased compared to the 2.50 mg/kg BW, 1.20 mg/kg BW, and 0.60 mg/kg BW groups of the second generation(P<0.05). Cumulatively, these results indicate that swainsonine may cause reproductive and developmental toxicities in mice in both parents and offspring.