bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Torsional Vibration Semiactive Control of Drivetrain Based on Magnetorheological Fluid Dual Mass Flywheel
Authors: Zu Qing-hua , Chen Zhi-yong , Shi Wen-ku , Mao Yang , Chen Zhi-yuan
Published: December 2015

The damping characteristics of the traditional dual mass flywheel (DMF) cannot be changed and can only meet one of the damping requirements. Given that the traditional DMF cannot avoid the resonance interval in start/stop conditions, it tends to generate high-resonance amplitude, which reduces the lifetime of a vehicle’s parts and leads to vehicle vibration and noise. The problems associated with the traditional DMF can be solved through the magnetorheological fluid dual mass flywheel (MRF-DMF), which was designed in this study with adjustable damping performance under different conditions. The MRF-DMF is designed based on the rheological behavior of the magnetorheological fluid (MRF), which can be changed by magnetic field strength. The damping torque of the MRF-DMF, which is generated by the MRF effect, is derived in detail. Thus, the cosimulation between the drivetrain model built in AMESim and the control system model developed in Simulink is conducted. The controller of MRF-DMF is developed, after which the torsional vibration control test of drivetrain is carried out. The cosimulation and test results indicate that MRF-DMF with the controller effectively isolates torque fluctuation of the engine in the driving condition and exhibits high performance in suppressing the resonance amplitude in the start/stop conditions.
A Copy Number Variant on Chromosome 20q13.3 Implicated in Thinness and Severe Obesity
Authors: Hasstedt Sandra J. , Xin Yuanpei , Mao Rong , Lewis Tracey , Adams Ted D. , Hunt Steven C.
Published: December 2015

Background/Objectives.To identify copy number variants (CNVs) which are associated with body mass index (BMI).Subjects/Methods.CNVs were identified using array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) on members of pedigrees ascertained through severely obese (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2) sib pairs (86 pedigrees) and thin (BMI ≤ 23 kg/m2) probands (3 pedigrees). Association was inferred through pleiotropy of BMI with CNVlog⁡2intensity ratio.Results.A 77-kilobase CNV on chromosome 20q13.3, confirmed by real-time qPCR, exhibited deletions in the obese subjects and duplications in the thin subjects (P=2.2×10-6). Further support for the presence of a deletion derived from inference by likelihood analysis of null alleles for SNPs residing in the region.Conclusions.One or more of 7 genes residing in a chromosome 20q13.3 CNV region appears to influence BMI. The strongest candidate isARFRP1, which affects glucose metabolism in mice.
Ruptured Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm into the Left Atrium with Multiple Fistulous Communications: A Rare Cause of Heart Failure
Authors: Agrawal Yashwant , Chandrashekhar Rakshita , Pratt Jerry W. , Cole Maria D. , Kamath Sreenivas , Kalavakunta Jagadeesh K.
Published: December 2015

Ruptured noncoronary sinus of valsalva aneurysm with fistulous connections to multiple cardiac chambers has not been reported previously. We report a 66-year-old man who presented with worsening cough and exertional dyspnea. Transesophageal echocardiogram confirmed a large aneurysm involving the noncoronary cusp of the aortic sinus with aneurysmal extension to the left atrium. There were also two fistulous communications with the left atrium and one small fistulous connection with the right atrium. Open-heart surgery with aortic root replacement and reimplantation of coronary arteries along with primary closure and repair of aorta to the left atrial fistula was performed.
On the Uniqueness of the Sparse Signals Reconstruction Based on the Missing Samples Variation Analysis
Authors: Stanković Ljubiša , Daković Miloš
Published: December 2015

An approach to sparse signals reconstruction considering its missing measurements/samples as variables is recently proposed. Number and positions of missing samples determine the uniqueness of the solution. It has been assumed that analyzed signals are sparse in the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) domain. A theorem for simple uniqueness check is proposed. Two forms of the theorem are presented, for an arbitrary sparse signal and for an already reconstructed signal. The results are demonstrated on illustrative and statistical examples.
Clinical Applications of Hemolytic Markers in the Differential Diagnosis and Management of Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Barcellini W. , Fattizzo B.
Published: December 2015

Several hemolytic markers are available to guide the differential diagnosis and to monitor treatment of hemolytic conditions. They include increased reticulocytes, an indicator of marrow compensatory response, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, a marker of intravascular hemolysis, reduced haptoglobin, and unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia. The direct antiglobulin test is the cornerstone of autoimmune forms, and blood smear examination is fundamental in the diagnosis of congenital membrane defects and thrombotic microangiopathies. Marked increase of lactate dehydrogenase and hemosiderinuria are typical of intravascular hemolysis, as observed in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and hyperferritinemia is associated with chronic hemolysis. Prosthetic valve replacement and stenting are also associated with intravascular and chronic hemolysis. Compensatory reticulocytosis may be inadequate/absent in case of marrow involvement, iron/vitamin deficiency, infections, or autoimmune reaction against bone marrow-precursors. Reticulocytopenia occurs in 20–40% of autoimmune hemolytic anemia cases and is a poor prognostic factor. Increased reticulocytes, lactate dehydrogenase, and bilirubin, as well as reduced haptoglobin, are observed in conditions other than hemolysis that may confound the clinical picture. Hemoglobin defines the clinical severity of hemolysis, and thrombocytopenia suggests a possible thrombotic microangiopathy or Evans’ syndrome. A comprehensive clinical and laboratory evaluation is advisable for a correct diagnostic and therapeutic workup of the different hemolytic conditions.
Neutrophilic Bronchial Inflammation Correlates with Clinical and Functional Findings in Patients with Noncystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis
Authors: Dente Federico L. , Bilotta Marta , Bartoli Maria Laura , Bacci Elena , Cianchetti Silvana , Latorre Manuela , Malagrinò Laura , Nieri Dario , Roggi Maria Adelaide , Vagaggini Barbara , Paggiaro Pierluigi
Published: December 2015

Background. Neutrophilic bronchial inflammation is a main feature of bronchiectasis, but not much is known about its relationship with other disease features. Aim. To compare airway inflammatory markers with clinical and functional findings in subjects with stable noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB). Methods. 152 NFCB patients (62.6 years; females: 57.2%) underwent clinical and functional cross‐sectional evaluation, including microbiologic and inflammatory cell profile in sputum, and exhaled breath condensate malondialdehyde (EBC‐MDA). NFCB severity was assessed using BSI and FACED criteria. Results. Sputum neutrophil percentages inversely correlated with FEV1 (P < 0.0001; rho = −0.428), weakly with Leicester Cough Questionnaire score (P = 0.068; rho = −0.58), and directly with duration of the disease (P = 0.004; rho = 0.3) and BSI severity score (P = 0.005; rho = 0.37), but not with FACED. Sputum neutrophilia was higher in colonized subjects, P. aeruginosa colonized subjects showing greater sputum neutrophilia and lower FEV1. Patients with ≥3 exacerbations in the last year showed a significantly greater EBC‐MDA than the remaining patients. Conclusions. Sputum neutrophilic inflammation and biomarkers of oxidative stress in EBC can be considered good biomarkers of disease severity in NCFB patients, as confirmed by pulmonary function, disease duration, bacterial colonization, BSI score, and exacerbation rate.
Necrotizing ANCA-Positive Glomerulonephritis Secondary to Culture-Negative Endocarditis
Authors: Van Haare Heijmeijer Sophie , Wilmes Dunja , Aydin Selda , Clerckx Caroline , Labriola Laura
Published: December 2015

Infective endocarditis (IE) and small-vessel vasculitis may have similar clinical features, including glomerulonephritis. Furthermore the association between IE and ANCA positivity is well documented, making differential diagnosis between IE- and ANCA-associated vasculitis particularly difficult, especially in case of culture-negative IE. We report on one patient with glomerulonephritis secondary to culture-negative IE caused byBartonella henselaewhich illustrates this diagnostic difficulty.
RT-Symmetric Laplace Operators on Star Graphs: Real Spectrum and Self-Adjointness
Authors: Astudillo Maria , Kurasov Pavel , Usman Muhammad
Published: December 2015

How ideas ofPT-symmetric quantum mechanics can be applied to quantum graphs is analyzed, in particular to the star graph. The class of rotationally symmetric vertex conditions is analyzed. It is shown that all such conditions can effectively be described by circulant matrices: real in the case of odd number of edges and complex having particular block structure in the even case. Spectral properties of the corresponding operators are discussed.
A Feature-Based Forensic Procedure for Splicing Forgeries Detection
Authors: Amerini Irene , Becarelli Rudy , Caldelli Roberto , Casini Matteo
Published: December 2015

Nowadays, determining if an image appeared somewhere on the web or in a magazine or is authentic or not has become crucial. Image forensics methods based on features have demonstrated so far to be very effective in detecting forgeries in which a portion of an image is cloned somewhere else onto the same image. Anyway such techniques cannot be adopted to deal with splicing attack, that is, when the image portion comes from another picture that then, usually, is not available anymore for an operation of feature match. In this paper, a procedure in which these techniques could also be employed will be shown to get rid of splicing attack by resorting to the use of some repositories of images available on the Internet like Google Images or TinEye Reverse Image Search. Experimental results are presented on some real case images retrieved on the Internet to demonstrate the capacity of the proposed procedure.
A Robust Control Method forQ-SSynchronization between Different Dimensional Integer-Order and Fractional-Order Chaotic Systems
Authors: Ouannas Adel , Abu-Saris Raghib
Published: December 2015

A robust control approach is presented to study the problem ofQ-Ssynchronization between Integer-order and fractional-order chaotic systems with different dimensions. Based on Laplace transformation and stability theory of linear integer-order dynamical systems, a new control law is proposed to guarantee theQ-Ssynchronization betweenn-dimensional integer-order master system andm-dimensional fractional-order slave system. This paper provides further contribution to the topic ofQ-Schaos synchronization between integer-order and fractional-order systems and introduces a general control scheme that can be applied to wide classes of chaotic and hyperchaotic systems. Illustrative example and numerical simulations are used to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Image Denoising viaL0Gradient Minimization with Effective Fidelity Term
Authors: Zhang Wenxue , Cao Yongzhen , Zhang Rongxin , Li Lingling , Wen Yunlei
Published: December 2015

TheL0gradient minimization (LGM) method has been proposed for image smoothing very recently. As an improvement of the total variation (TV) model which employs theL1norm of the gradient, the LGM model yields much better results for the piecewise constant image. However, just as the TV model, the LGM model also suffers, even more seriously, from the staircasing effect and the inefficiency in preserving the texture in image. In order to overcome these drawbacks, in this paper, we propose to introduce an effective fidelity term into the LGM model. The fidelity term is an exemplar of the moving least square method using steering kernel. Under this framework, these two methods benefit from each other and can produce better results. Experimental results show that the proposed scheme is promising as compared with the state-of-the-art methods.
Effect of Kinetin on Physiological and Biochemical Properties of Maize Seedlings under Arsenic Stress
Authors: Wang Haijuan , Dai Biyu , Shu Xiaogang , Wang Hongbin , Ning Ping
Published: December 2015

The effects of different levels of kinetin (KT) application on the growth, biomass, contents of chlorophyll (Chl a, Chl b, and carotenoid), arsenic uptake, and activities of antioxidant enzymes in maize seedlings under arsenic (As) stress were investigated by a hydroponic experiment. The results showed that KT supplementation increased the biomass in terms of root length, root number, fresh weight, and seedling length, and KT treatments also improved the contents of Chl a, As uptake, and Chl a : b ratio compared to cases with As treatment alone. However, no significant changes were observed in carotenoid content, and a reduction was found in Chl b content of seedlings. KT also increased the activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the leaves of maize seedlings when 0.1 mg/L KT and As were applied, which decreased the content of malondialdehyde (MDA). These results suggested that KT could alleviate the toxicity of As to maize seedlings by keeping the stability of chlorophyll, enhancing the activities of antioxidant enzymes, and inhibiting the lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, the alleviation effect of KT in maize seedlings exposed to As stress was clearly observed in the present study.
Phytochemical Screening and Acute Oral Toxicity Study of Java Tea Leaf Extracts
Authors: Pariyani Raghunath , Safinar Ismail Intan , Azam Amalina Ahmad , Abas Faridah , Shaari Khozirah , Sulaiman Mohd Roslan
Published: December 2015

The term Java tea refers to the decoction ofOrthosiphon stamineus(OS) Benth (Lamiaceae) leaves, which are widely consumed by the people in Europe and South East Asian countries. The OS leaves are known for their use in traditional medicinal systems as a prophylactic and curative agent for urinary stone, diabetes, and hypertension and also as a diuretic agent. The present study was aimed at evaluating its possible toxicity. Herein, the major phytochemical constituents of microwave dried OS leaf, which is the common drying process for tea sachets in the market, were also identified. The acute oral toxicity test of aqueous, 50% aqueous ethanolic, and ethanolic extracts of OS was performed at a dose of 5000 mg/Kg body weight of Sprague-Dawley rats. During the 14-day study, the animals were observed for any mortality, behavioral, motor-neuronal abnormalities, body weight, and feed-water consumption pattern. The hematological and serum biochemical parameters to assess the kidney and liver functions were carried out, along with the histological analysis of these organs. It was found that all microwave dried OS leaf extracts did not cause any toxic effects or mortality at the administered dose. No abnormality was noticed in all selected parameters in rats of both sexes as compared with their respective control groups. Thus, the possible oral lethal dose for microwave dried Java tea leaves is more than 5000 mg/Kg body weight.
Rayleigh-Ritz Vibrational Analysis of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Based on the Nonlocal Flügge Shell Theory
Authors: Rouhi H. , Bazdid-Vahdati M. , Ansari R.
Published: December 2015

A nonlocal elastic shell model considering the small scale effects is developed to study the free vibrations of multiwalled carbon nanotubes subject to different types of boundary conditions. Based on the nonlocal elasticity and the Flügge shell theory, the governing equations are derived which include the interaction of van der Waals forces between adjacent and nonadjacent layers. To analytically solve the problem, the Rayleigh-Ritz method is employed. In the present analysis, different combinations of layerwise boundary conditions are taken into account. Some new intertube resonant frequencies and the associated noncoaxial vibrational modes are identified owing to incorporating circumferential modes into the shell model.
Heparin Interaction with the Primed Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte CD11b Induces Apoptosis and Prevents Cell Activation
Authors: Cohen-Mazor Meital , Mazor Rafi , Kristal Batya , Kistler Erik B. , Ziv Inbal , Chezar Judith , Sela Shifra
Published: December 2015

Heparin is known to have anti-inflammatory effects, yet the mechanisms are not completely understood. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that heparin has a direct effect on activated polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs), changing their activation state, and can explain its anti-inflammatory effect. To test our hypothesis, we designed bothin vitroandex vivostudies to elucidate the mechanism by which heparin modulates PMNL functions and therefore the inflammatory response. We specifically tested the hypothesis that priming of PMNLs renders them more susceptible to heparin. Amplified levels of CD11b and increased rate of superoxide release manifested PMNL priming. Increase in cell priming resulted in a dose-dependent increase in heparin binding to PMNLs followed by augmented apoptosis. Blocking antibodies to CD11b inhibited heparin binding and abolished the apoptotic response. Moreover, heparin caused a significant dose-dependent decrease in the rate of superoxide release from PMNLs, which was blunted by blocking antibodies to CD11b. Altogether, this study shows that the interaction of heparin with the PMNL CD11b results in cell apoptosis and explains heparin’s anti-inflammatory effects.
Levo‐Tetrahydropalmatine Attenuates Bone Cancer Pain by Inhibiting Microglial Cells Activation
Authors: Zhang Mao-yin , Liu Yue-peng , Zhang Lian-yi , Yue Dong-mei , Qi Dun-yi , Liu Gong-jian , Liu Su
Published: December 2015

Objective. The present study is to investigate the analgesic roles of L‐THP in rats with bone cancer pain caused by tumor cell implantation (TCI). Methods. Thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia were measured at different time points before and after operation. L‐THP (20, 40, and 60 mg/kg) were administrated intragastrically at early phase of postoperation (before pain appearance) and later phase of postoperation (after pain appearance), respectively. The concentrations of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐18 in spinal cord were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Western blot was used to test the activation of astrocytes and microglial cells in spinal cord after TCI treatment. Results. TCI treatment induced significant thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. Administration of L‐THP at high doses significantly prevented and/or reversed bone cancer‐related pain behaviors. Besides, TCI‐induced activation of microglial cells and the increased levels of TNF‐α and IL‐18 were inhibited by L‐THP administration. However, L‐THP failed to affect TCI‐induced astrocytes activation and IL‐1β increase. Conclusion. This study suggests the possible clinical utility of L‐THP in the treatment of bone cancer pain. The analgesic effects of L‐THP on bone cancer pain maybe underlying the inhibition of microglial cells activation and proinflammatory cytokines increase.
Endemicity ofAcinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumanniiComplex in an Intensive Care Unit in Malaysia
Authors: Dhanoa Amreeta , Rajasekaram Ganeswrie , Lean Soo Sum , Cheong Yuet Meng , Thong Kwai Lin
Published: December 2015

Introduction.Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumanniicomplex (ACB complex) is a leading opportunistic pathogen in intensive care units (ICUs). Effective control of spread requires understanding of its epidemiological relatedness. This study aims to determine the genetic relatedness and antibiotic susceptibilities of ACB complex in an ICU in Malaysia.Methodology. Pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), E-test, and disk diffusion were used for isolates characterization.Results. During the study period (December 2011 to June 2012), 1023 patients were admitted to the ICU and 44 ACB complex (blood,n=21, and blind bronchial aspirates,n=23) were recovered from 38 ICU patients. Six isolates were from non-ICU patients. Of the 44 ICU isolates, 88.6% exhibited multidrug-resistant (MDR) patterns. There was high degree of resistance, with minimum inhibitory concentration90(MIC90) of >32μg/mL for carbapenems and ≥256μg/mL for amikacin, ampicillin/sulbactam, and cefoperazone/sulbactam. Isolates from the main PFGE cluster were highly resistant. There was evidence of dissemination in non-ICU wards.Conclusion. High number of clonally related MDR ACB complex was found. While the ICU is a likely reservoir facilitating transmission, importation from other wards may be important contributor. Early identification of strain relatedness and implementation of infection control measures are necessary to prevent further spread.
Gully Morphology and Rehabilitation Measures in Different Agroecological Environments of Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Addis Hailu Kendie , Adugna Belayneh , Gebretsadik Muuz , Ayalew Baye
Published: December 2015

Gully erosion is a serious threat to the society and environment of the study, primarily caused by surface runoff and dramatically accelerated due to rugged topography and human induced factors. Intensive measurements of gully characteristics were undertaken to investigate the morphologies of gully, while aiming for sustainable gully rehabilitation; therefore, a total of 63 gully samples from three different agroecologies were randomly observed. The morphological variability of measured gullies was evaluated and the resulting CVs had been between 0.27 and 0.39 except for gully length, which had highest variability (CV = 1.10). The highest gully length (2,400 m) and highest lower width (6 m) were observed on Dembia district, which might be due to the loose and pulverized condition of the soil. The correlation matrices for many parameters of gully morphology in different districts of Semien Gondar showed several sets of significant relationships. Some of the assessed gullies showed that appropriate physical gully control structures integrated with vegetative measures have resulted in a significant reduction of soil loss and stabilized the gully from further enlargement. There could be various justifications for the success of these structures; however, the most important measures were vegetative management and exclusion of cattle.
Compact Planar Sparse Array Antenna with Optimum Element Dimensions for SATCOM Ground Terminals
Authors: Lu Junqi , Guo Yongxin
Published: December 2015

A novel antenna array architecture for low-cost and compact SATCOM mobile terminal is presented. Based on equal-amplitude aperiodic phased array with fewer active chain numbers, it possesses advantages including lower weight, less cost, and higher power efficiency compared to conventional periodic phased arrays. It is implemented with printed patch antenna so that it guarantees compactness. The elements position and dimensions are jointly designed, with an effective sparse array synthesis strategy that takes actual patch antenna design constraint into consideration, to obtain a maximum array aperture efficiency. Executable and practical approach for variable dimension patch antenna designing, including defect substrate element and small scale array, is introduced and utilized to implement proposed sparse array. Full-wave simulation results demonstrate the advantages of proposed array antenna as well as the effectiveness of corresponding design approach.
A Scalable Unsegmented Multiport Memory for FPGA-Based Systems
Authors: Townsend Kevin R. , Attia Osama G. , Jones Phillip H. , Zambreno Joseph
Published: December 2015

On-chip multiport memory cores are crucial primitives for many modern high-performance reconfigurable architectures and multicore systems. Previous approaches for scaling memory cores come at the cost of operating frequency, communication overhead, and logic resources without increasing the storage capacity of the memory. In this paper, we present two approaches for designing multiport memory cores that are suitable for reconfigurable accelerators with substantial on-chip memory or complex communication. Our design approaches tackle these challenges by banking RAM blocks and utilizing interconnect networks which allows scaling without sacrificing logic resources. With banking, memory congestion is unavoidable and we evaluate our multiport memory cores under different memory access patterns to gain insights about different design trade-offs. We demonstrate our implementation with up to 256 memory ports using a Xilinx Virtex-7 FPGA. Our experimental results report high throughput memories with resource usage that scales with the number of ports.
Early Morphokinetic Monitoring of Embryos after Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection with Fresh Ejaculate Sperm in Nonmosaic Klinefelter Syndrome: A Different Presentation
Authors: Gurbuz Ali Sami , Salvarci Ahmet , Ozcimen Necati , Zamani Ayse Gul
Published: December 2015

The patient was diagnosed with nonmosaic 47, XXY Klinefelter Syndrome with the AZF deletion absent and SRY+. The nonmosaic 47, XXY karyotype was confirmed on a skin biopsy chromosomal analysis. Using only ejaculate motile sperms, 11 oocytes underwent ICSI and were placed rapidly in a time lapse (Embryoscope ©) with a specific culture dish. Biopsies were performed on six embryos on the 3rd day, and numerical chromosomal abnormalities were observed using the FISH test before transfer. PGS results were normal in only two embryos with normal morphokinetics in the Embryoscope. For clinical confirmation of pregnancy, ultrasonographic examination was performed during the 7th week of pregnancy, and two gestational sacs and fetal heart beat were observed.
Factors Associated with Opioid Use in a Cohort of Patients Presenting for Surgery
Authors: Hah Jennifer M. , Sharifzadeh Yasamin , Wang Bing M. , Gillespie Matthew J. , Goodman Stuart B. , Mackey Sean C. , Carroll Ian R.
Published: December 2015

Objectives. Patients taking opioids prior to surgery experience prolonged postoperative opioid use, worse clinical outcomes, increased pain, and more postoperative complications. We aimed to compare preoperative opioid users to their opioid naïve counterparts to identify differences in baseline characteristics. Methods. 107 patients presenting for thoracotomy, total knee replacement, total hip replacement, radical mastectomy, and lumpectomy were investigated in a cross-sectional study to characterize the associations between measures of pain, substance use, abuse, addiction, sleep, and psychological measures (depressive symptoms, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder symptoms, somatic fear and anxiety, and fear of pain) with opioid use. Results. Every 9-point increase in the Screener and Opioid Assessment for Patients with Pain-Revised (SOAPP-R) score was associated with 2.37 (95% CI 1.29–4.32) increased odds of preoperative opioid use (p=0.0005). The SOAPP-R score was also associated with 3.02 (95% CI 1.36–6.70) increased odds of illicit preoperative opioid use (p=0.007). Also, every 4-point increase in baseline pain at the future surgical site was associated with 2.85 (95% CI 1.12–7.27) increased odds of legitimate preoperative opioid use (p=0.03). Discussion. Patients presenting with preoperative opioid use have higher SOAPP-R scores potentially indicating an increased risk for opioid misuse after surgery. In addition, legitimate preoperative opioid use is associated with preexisting pain.
Modeling and Simulation of Power Distribution System in More Electric Aircraft
Authors: Yang Zhangang , Qu Junchao , Ma Yingchuan , Shi Xudong
Published: December 2015

The More Electric Aircraft concept is a fast-developing trend in modern aircraft industry. With this new concept, the performance of the aircraft can be further optimized and meanwhile the operating and maintenance cost will be decreased effectively. In order to optimize the power system integrity and have the ability to investigate the performance of the overall system in any possible situations, one accurate simulation model of the aircraft power system will be very helpful and necessary. This paper mainly introduces a method to build a simulation model for the power distribution system, which is based on detailed component models. The power distribution system model consists of power generation unit, transformer rectifier unit, DC-DC converter unit, and DC-AC inverter unit. In order to optimize the performance of the power distribution system and improve the quality of the distributed power, a feedback control network is designed based on the characteristics of the power distribution system. The simulation result indicates that this new simulation model is well designed and it works accurately. Moreover, steady state performance and transient state performance of the model can fulfill the requirements of aircraft power distribution system in the realistic application.
Acupuncture for Lateral Epicondylitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tang Hongzhi , Fan Huaying , Chen Jiao , Yang Mingxiao , Yi Xuebing , Dai Guogang , Chen Junrong , Tang Liugang , Rong Haibo , Wu Junhua , Liang Fanrong
Published: December 2015

Objective. This systematic review aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for lateral epicondylitis (LE).Methods. Seven databases and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform Search Portal were searched to identify relevant studies. The data were extracted and assessed by two independent authors, and Review Manager Software (V.5.3) was used for data synthesis with effect estimate presented as standard mean difference (SMD) and mean difference (MD) with a 95% confidence interval. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to assess the level of evidence.Results. Four RCTs with 309 participants were included with poor methodological quality. Participants who received acupuncture and acupuncture plus moxibustion with material insulation were likely to have an improvement in elbow functional status and/or myodynamia. The overall quality rated by GRADE was from very low to low. Two studies reported that the needle pain would be the main reason for the dropout.Conclusion. For the small number of included studies with poor methodological quality, no firm conclusion can be drawn regarding the effect of acupuncture of elbow functional status and myodynamia for LE. This trial is registered withCRD42015016199.
Normal and Accidental Scenarios Analyses with MELCOR 1.8.2 and MELCOR 2.1 for the DEMO Helium-Cooled Pebble Bed Blanket Concept
Authors: Gonfiotti Bruno , Paci Sandro
Published: December 2015

As for Light Water Reactors (LWRs), one of the most challenging accidents for the future DEMOnstration power plant is the Loss of Coolant Accident, which can trigger the pressurization of the confinement structures and components. Hence, careful analyses have to be executed to demonstrate that the confinement barriers are able to withstand the pressure peak within design limits and the residual cooling capabilities of the Primary Heat Transfer System are sufficient to remove the decay heat. To do so, severe accident codes, as MELCOR, can be employed. In detail, the MELCOR code has been developed to cope also with fusion reactors, but unfortunately, these fusion versions are based on the old 1.8.x source code. On the contrary, for LWRs, the newest 2.1.x versions are continuously updated. Thanks to the new features introduced in these latest 2.1.x versions, the main phenomena occurring in the helium-cooled blanket concepts of DEMO can be simulated in a basic manner. For this purpose, several analyses during normal and accidental DEMO conditions have been executed. The aim of these analyses is to compare the results obtained with MELCOR 1.8.2 and MELCOR 2.1 in order to highlight the differences among the results of the main thermal-hydraulic parameters.
Weld Inspection Based on Radiography Image Segmentation with Level Set Active Contour Guided Off-Center Saliency Map
Authors: Ben Gharsallah Mohamed , Ben Braiek Ezzeddine
Published: December 2015

Radiography is one of the most used techniques in weld defect inspection. Weld defect detection becomes a complex task when uneven illumination and low contrast characterize radiographic images. In this paper we propose a new active contour based level set method for weld defect detection in radiography images. An off-center saliency map exploited as a feature to represent image pixels is embedded into a region energy minimization function to guide the level set active contour to defects boundaries. The aim behind using salient feature is that a small defect can frequently attract attention of human eyes which permits enhancing defects in low contrasted image. Experiment results on different weld radiographic images with various kinds of defects show robustness and good performance of the proposed approach comparing with other segmentation methods.
Huangqi Jianzhong Tang for Treatment of Chronic Gastritis: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Wei Yue , Ma Li-Xin , Yin Sheng-Jun , An Jing , Wei Qi , Yang Jin-Xiang
Published: December 2015

To assess the clinical effects and safety of Huangqi Jianzhong Tang (HQJZ) for the treatment of chronic gastritis (CG), three English databases and four Chinese databases were searched through the inception to January 2015. In randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing HQJZ with placebo, no intervention and western medicine were included. A total of 9 RCTs involving 979 participants were identified. The methodological quality of the included trials was generally poor. Meta-analyses demonstrated that HQJZ plus conventional medicine was more effective in improving overall gastroscopy outcome than western medicine alone for treatment of chronic superficial gastritis with the pooling result of overall improvement [OR 3.78 (1.29,11.06),P=0.02]. In addition, the combination of HQJZ with antibiotics has higher overall effect rate than antibiotics alone for the treatment of CG [OR 2.60 (1.49,4.54),P=0.0007]. There were no serious adverse events reported in both the intervention and controlled groups. HQJZ has the potential of improvement of the patients’ gastroscopy outcomes,Helicobacter pyloriclearance rate, traditional Chinese Medicine syndromes, and overall effect rate alone or in combination use with conventional western medicine for chronic atrophic gastritis. However, due to poor methodological quality, the beneficial effect and safeties of HQJZ for CG could not be confirmed.
Rare Occurrence of Herpes Zoster of Trigeminal Nerve following Extraction of Tooth
Authors: Christy A. Winnifred , Raja Deva Thanmbi T. Jones , Leelavathy J. , Rhema Louis Antoinette
Published: December 2015

Herpes Zoster also known as Shingles is an acute viral infection which is an extremely painful and incapacitating ailment. It results from the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus. The triggering factors for the onset of an attack of Herpes Zoster include some form of immunosuppression. The diagnosis of Herpes Zoster can be made on proper medical history and a thorough clinical examination. Here is the report of a male patient affected by Herpes Zoster infection which followed after extraction of a lower first molar.
Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Activity of Compounds Isolated fromFlourensia oolepis
Authors: Joray Mariana Belén , Trucco Lucas Daniel , González María Laura , Napal Georgina Natalia Díaz , Palacios Sara María , Bocco José Luis , Carpinella María Cecilia
Published: December 2015

The antibacterial and cytotoxic effects of metabolites isolated from an antibacterial extract ofFlourensia oolepiswere evaluated. Bioguided fractionation led to five flavonoids, identified as 2′,4′-dihydroxychalcone (1), isoliquiritigenin (2), pinocembrin (3), 7-hydroxyflavanone (4), and 7,4′-dihydroxy-3′-methoxyflavanone (5). Compound1showed the highest antibacterial effect, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 31 to 62 and 62 to 250 μg/mL, against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, respectively. On further assays, the cytotoxic effect of compounds1–5was determined by MTT assay on acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cell lines including their multidrug resistant (MDR) phenotypes. Compound1induced a remarkable cytotoxic activity toward ALL cells (IC50= 6.6–9.9 μM) and a lower effect against CML cells (IC50= 27.5–30.0 μM). Flow cytometry was used to analyze cell cycle distribution and cell death by PI-labeled cells and by Annexin V/PI staining, respectively. Upon treatment,1induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase accompanied by a strong induction of apoptosis. These results describe for the first time the antibacterial metabolites ofF. oolepisextract, with1being the most effective. This chalcone also emerges as a selective cytotoxic agent against sensitive and resistant leukemic cells, highlighting its potential as a lead compound.
Musculoskeletal Simulation for Assessment of Effect of Movement-Based Structure-Modifying Treatment Strategies
Authors: Dao Tien Tuan
Published: December 2015

The better understanding of the complex mechanism between neural motor control and its resulting joint kinematics and muscle forces allows a better elucidation of the mechanisms behind body growth, aging progression, and disease development. This study aimed at investigating the impact of movement-based structure-modifying treatment strategies on joint kinematics, muscle forces, and muscle synergies of the gait with instrumented implant. A patient-specific musculoskeletal model was used to quantitatively assess the deviations of joint and muscle behaviors between the normal gait and 4 gait modifications (bouncy, medial thrust, midcrouch, and mtp (i.e., gait with forefoot strike)). Moreover, muscle synergy analysis was performed using EMG-based nonnegative matrix factorization. Large variation of 19 degrees and 190 N was found for knee flexion/extension and lower limb muscle forces, respectively. EMG-based muscle synergy analysis revealed that the activation levels of the vastus lateralis and tibialis anterior are dominant for the midcrouch gait. In addition, an important contribution of semimembranosus to the medial thrust and midcrouch gaits was also observed. In fact, such useful information could allow a better understanding of the joint function and muscle synergy strategies leading to deeper knowledge of joint and muscle mechanisms related to neural voluntary motor commands.
A Design of Double Broadband MIMO Antenna
Authors: Geng Yanfeng , Ma Runbo , Chen Baoming , Zhang Wenmei
Published: December 2015

The MIMO antenna applied to LTE mobile system should be miniaturization and can work in the current communication frequency band; isolation between each antenna unit also should be good so as to reduce loss of radio wave energy and improve the antenna performance of the MIMO system. This paper puts forward the design scheme of a broadband MIMO double antenna. And the design of antenna unit and debugging and related technical measures, such as bending antenna bracket, are both presented; the integration design of high isolation of ultra broadband MIMO antenna is realized on the plate with the volume of 100 × 52 × 0.8 mm3; antenna working bands are 698 MHz~960 MHz and 1710 MHz~2700 MHz; in the whole spectrum, the 10 dB of port isolation can be basically achieved; in low frequency band, the isolation degree of antenna port can reach 12 dB.
Agreement of Networks of Discrete-Time Agents with Mixed Dynamics and Time Delays
Authors: Li Xue , Chen Xueer , Xie Yingchun
Published: December 2015

This paper considers agreement problems of networks of discrete-time agents with mixed dynamics and arbitrary bounded time delays, and networks consist of first-order agents and second-order agents. By using the properties of nonnegative matrices and model transformations, we derive sufficient conditions for stationary agreement of networks with bounded time delays. It is shown that stationary agreement can be achieved with arbitrary bounded time delays, if and only if fixed topology has a spanning tree and the union of the dynamically changing topologies has a spanning tree. Simulation results are also given to demonstrate the effectiveness of our theoretical results.
Clinical and Epidemiological Factors Associated with Mortality in Parkinson’s Disease in a Brazilian Cohort
Authors: Fernandes Gustavo Costa , Socal Mariana Peixoto , Schuh Artur Francisco Schumacher , Rieder Carlos R. M.
Published: December 2015

Background. Prognosis of PD is variable. Most studies show higher mortality rates in PD patients compared to the general population. Clinical and epidemiologic factors predicting mortality are poorly understood.Methods. Clinical and epidemiologic features including patient history and physical, functional, and cognitive scores were collected from a hospital-based cohort of PD patients using standardized protocols and clinical scales. Data on comorbidities and mortality were collected on follow-up.Results. During a mean follow-up of 4.71 years (range 1–10), 43 (20.9%) of the 206 patients died. Those who died had higher mean age at disease onset than those still alive at the last follow-up (67.7 years versus 56.3 years;p<0.01). In the univariate analysis, age at baseline was associated with decreased survival. In the adjusted Cox proportional hazards model, age at disease onset and race/ethnicity were predictors of mortality.Conclusions. Late age at disease onset and advanced chronological age are associated with decreased survival. Comorbidities and PD characteristics were not associated with decreased survival in our sample. Race/ethnicity was found in our study to be associated with increased hazard of mortality. Our findings indicate the importance of studying survival among different populations of PD patients.
Evaluation of Second-Level Inference in fMRI Analysis
Authors: Roels Sanne P. , Loeys Tom , Moerkerke Beatrijs
Published: December 2015

We investigate the impact of decisions in the second-level (i.e., over subjects) inferential process in functional magnetic resonance imaging on (1) the balance between false positives and false negatives and on (2) the data-analytical stability, both proxies for the reproducibility of results. Second-level analysis based on a mass univariate approach typically consists of 3 phases. First, one proceeds via a general linear model for a test image that consists of pooled information from different subjects. We evaluate models that take into account first-level (within-subjects) variability and models that do not take into account this variability. Second, one proceeds via inference based on parametrical assumptions or via permutation-based inference. Third, we evaluate 3 commonly used procedures to address the multiple testing problem: familywise error rate correction, False Discovery Rate (FDR) correction, and a two-step procedure with minimal cluster size. Based on a simulation study and real data we find that the two-step procedure with minimal cluster size results in most stable results, followed by the familywise error rate correction. The FDR results in most variable results, for both permutation-based inference and parametrical inference. Modeling the subject-specific variability yields a better balance between false positives and false negatives when using parametric inference.
Review of Energy Harvesters Utilizing Bridge Vibrations
Authors: Khan Farid Ullah , Ahmad Iftikhar
Published: December 2015

For health monitoring of bridges, wireless acceleration sensor nodes (WASNs) are normally used. In bridge environment, several forms of energy are available for operating WASNs that include wind, solar, acoustic, and vibration energy. However, only bridge vibration has the tendency to be utilized for embedded WASNs application in bridge structures. This paper reports on the recent advancements in the area of vibration energy harvesters (VEHs) utilizing bridge oscillations. The bridge vibration is narrowband (1 to 40 Hz) with low acceleration levels (0.01 to 3.8 g). For utilization of bridge vibration, electromagnetic based vibration energy harvesters (EM-VEHs) and piezoelectric based vibration energy harvesters (PE-VEHs) have been developed. The power generation of the reported EM-VEHs is in the range from 0.7 to 1450000 μW. However, the power production by the developed PE-VEHs ranges from 0.6 to 7700 μW. The overall size of most of the bridge VEHs is quite comparable and is in mesoscale. The resonant frequencies of EM-VEHs are on the lower side (0.13 to 27 Hz) in comparison to PE-VEHs (1 to 120 Hz). The power densities reported for these bridge VEHs range from 0.01 to 9539.5 μW/cm3and are quite enough to operate most of the commercial WASNs.
3D-EAUS and MRI in the Activity of Anal Fistulas in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Alabiso Maria Eleonora , Iasiello Francesca , Pellino Gianluca , Iacomino Aniello , Roberto Luca , Pinto Antonio , Riegler Gabriele , Selvaggi Francesco , Reginelli Alfonso
Published: December 2015

Aim. This study aspires to assess the role of 3D-Endoanal Ultrasound (3D-EAUS) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in preoperative evaluation of the primary tract and internal opening of perianal fistulas, of secondary extensions and abscess. Methods. During 2014, 51 Crohn’s disease patients suspected for perianal fistula were enrolled. All patients underwent physical examination with both the methods and subsequent surgery. Results. In the evaluation of CD perianal fistulas, there are no significant differences between 3D-EAUS and MRI in the identification of abscess and secondary extension. Considering the location, 3D-EAUS was more accurate than MRI in the detection of intersphincteric fistulas (p value = 10−6); conversely, MRI was more accurate than 3D-EAUS in the detection of suprasphincteric fistulas (p value = 0.0327) and extrasphincteric fistulas (p  value=4⊕10-6); there was no significant difference between MRI and 3D-EAUS in the detection of transsphincteric fistulas. Conclusions. Both 3D-EAUS and MRI have a crucial role in the evaluation and detection of CD perianal fistulas. 3D-EAUS was preferable to MRI in the detection of intersphincteric fistulas; conversely, in the evaluation of suprasphincteric and extrasphincteric fistulas the MRI was preferable to 3D-EAUS.
Techniques for Abdominal Wall Closure after Damage Control Laparotomy: From Temporary Abdominal Closure to Early/Delayed Fascial Closure—A Review
Authors: Huang Qian , Li Jieshou , Lau Wan-yee
Published: December 2015

Open abdomen (OA) has been an effective treatment for abdominal catastrophes in traumatic and general surgery. However, management of patients with OA remains a formidable task for surgeons. The central goal of OA is closure of fascial defect as early as is clinically feasible without precipitating abdominal compartment syndrome. Historically, techniques such as packing, mesh, and vacuum-assisted closure have been developed to assist temporary abdominal closure, and techniques such as components separation, mesh-mediated traction, bridging fascial defect with permanent synthetic mesh, or biologic mesh have also been attempted to achieve early primary fascial closure, either alone or in combined use. The objective of this review is to present the challenges of these techniques for OA with a goal of early primary fascial closure, when the patient’s physiological condition allows.