bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Complex Dataflows with User-Defined Functions
Authors: Rheinländer Astrid , Leser Ulf , Graefe Goetz
Published: May 2017

In many fields, recent years have brought a sharp rise in the size of the data to be analyzed and the complexity of the analysis to be performed. Such analyses are often described as dataflows specified in declarative dataflow languages. A key technique to achieve scalability for such analyses is the optimization of the declarative programs; however, many real-life dataflows are dominated by user-defined functions (UDFs) to perform, for instance, text analysis, graph traversal, classification, or clustering. This calls for specific optimization techniques as the semantics of such UDFs are unknown to the optimizer.

In this article, we survey techniques for optimizing dataflows with UDFs. We consider methods developed over decades of research in relational database systems as well as more recent approaches spurred by the popularity of Map/Reduce-style data processing frameworks. We present techniques for syntactical dataflow modification, approaches for inferring semantics and rewrite options for UDFs, and methods for dataflow transformations both on the logical and the physical levels. Furthermore, we give a comprehensive overview on declarative dataflow languages for Big Data processing systems from the perspective of their build-in optimization techniques. Finally, we highlight open research challenges with the intention to foster more research into optimizing dataflows that contain UDFs.
DawnCC
Authors: Mendonça Gleison , Guimarães Breno , Alves Péricles , Pereira Márcio , Araújo Guido , Pereira Fernando Magno Quintão
Published: May 2017

Directive-based programming models, such as OpenACC and OpenMP, allow developers to convert a sequential program into a parallel one with minimum human intervention. However, inserting pragmas into production code is a difficult and error-prone task, often requiring familiarity with the target program. This difficulty restricts the ability of developers to annotate code that they have not written themselves. This article provides a suite of compiler-related methods to mitigate this problem. Such techniques rely on symbolic range analysis, a well-known static technique, to achieve two purposes: populate source code with data transfer primitives and to disambiguate pointers that could hinder automatic parallelization due to aliasing. We have materialized our ideas into a tool, DawnCC, which can be used stand-alone or through an online interface. To demonstrate its effectiveness, we show how DawnCC can annotate the programs available in PolyBench without any intervention from users. Such annotations lead to speedups of over 100× in an Nvidia architecture and over 50× in an ARM architecture.
Holocarboxylase Synthetase: A Moonlighting Transcriptional Coregulator of Gene Expression and a Cytosolic Regulator of Biotin Utilization
Authors: León-Del-Río Alfonso , Valadez-Graham Viviana , Gravel Roy A.
Published: May 2017

The vitamin biotin is an essential nutrient for the metabolism and survival of all organisms owing to its function as a cofactor of enzymes collectively known as biotin-dependent carboxylases. These enzymes use covalently attached biotin as a vector to transfer a carboxyl group between donor and acceptor molecules during carboxylation reactions. In human cells, biotin-dependent carboxylases catalyze key reactions in gluconeogenesis, fatty acid synthesis, and amino acid catabolism. Biotin is attached to apocarboxylases by a biotin ligase: holocarboxylase synthetase (HCS) in mammalian cells and BirA in microbes. Despite their evolutionary distance, these proteins share structural and sequence similarities, underscoring their importance across all life forms. However, beyond its role in metabolism, HCS participates in the regulation of biotin utilization and acts as a nuclear transcriptional coregulator of gene expression. In this review, we discuss the function of HCS and biotin in metabolism and human disease, a putative role for the enzyme in histone biotinylation, and its participation as a nuclear factor in chromatin dynamics. We suggest that HCS be classified as a moonlighting protein, with two biotin-dependent cytosolic metabolic roles and a distinct biotin-independent nuclear coregulatory function.
Satellite Constellation Orbit Design Optimization with Combined Genetic Algorithm and Semianalytical Approach
Authors: Savitri Tania , Kim Youngjoo , Jo Sujang , Bang Hyochoong
Published: May 2017

This paper focuses on maximizing the percent coverage and minimizing the revisit time for a small satellite constellation with limited coverage. A target area represented by a polygon defined by grid points is chosen instead of using a target point only. The constellation consists of nonsymmetric and circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. A global optimization method, Genetic Algorithm (GA), is chosen due to its ability to locate a global optimum solution for nonlinear multiobjective problems. From six orbital elements, five elements (semimajor axis, inclination, argument of perigee, longitude of ascending node, and mean anomaly) are varied as optimization design variables. A multiobjective optimization study is conducted in this study with percent coverage and revisit time as the two main parameters to analyze the performance of the constellation. Some efforts are made to improve the objective function and to minimize the computational load. A semianalytical approach is implemented to speed up the guessing of initial orbital elements. To determine the best parametric operator combinations, the fitness value and the computational time from each study cases are compared.
The Effect of Drying Parameters on the Quality of Pork and Poultry-Pork Kabanosy Produced according to the Traditional Specialties Guaranteed Recipe
Authors: Chmiel Marta , Adamczak Lech , Wrońska Katarzyna , Pietrzak Dorota , Florowski Tomasz
Published: May 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of differentiated air relative humidity during the drying process on selected quality features of TSG (traditional specialties guaranteed) pork and poultry-pork kabanosy. After heat treatment and 24-hour cooling at 4–6°C, the products were placed in three chambers at 15°C with differentiated air relative humidity: 60, 70, and 80%, respectively. The drying process was carried out until all variants of kabanosy achieved the required final yield of the product (<68%). Color components, water activity and shear force, water, protein, fat, and salt content, and the TBARS indicator values were determined. The drying process might be shortened (~50%) by a reduction of humidity in the drying chamber from 80 to 60%. The changes in the content of chemical components in pork kabanosy compared to poultry-pork ones demonstrated the different dynamics of the drying of the two types of kabanosy and the need for the selection of optimum drying conditions relative to raw material composition.
Detecting Saliency in Infrared Images via Multiscale Local Sparse Representation and Local Contrast Measure
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Chunyan , Ning Chen , Zhang Yuzhen , Lv Guofang
Published: May 2017

For infrared images, it is a formidable challenge to highlight salient regions completely and suppress the background noise effectively at the same time. To handle this problem, a novel saliency detection method based on multiscale local sparse representation and local contrast measure is proposed in this paper. The saliency detection problem is implemented in three stages. First, a multiscale local sparse representation based approach is designed for detecting saliency in infrared images. Using it, multiple saliency maps with various scales are obtained for an infrared image. These maps are then fused to generate a combined saliency map, which can highlight the salient region fully. Second, we adopt a local contrast measure based technique to process the infrared image. It divides the image into a number of image blocks. Then these blocks are utilized to calculate the local contrast to generate a local contrast measure based saliency map. In this map, the background noise can be suppressed effectually. Last, to make full use of the advantages of the above two saliency maps, we propose combining them together using an adaptive fusion scheme. Experimental results show that our method achieves better performance than several state‐of‐the‐art algorithms for saliency detection in infrared images.
Agroforestry and Management of Trees in Bunya County, Mayuge District, Uganda
Authors: Kyarikunda Monica , Nyamukuru Antonia , Mulindwa Daniel , Tabuti John R. S.
Published: May 2017

Woody plant resources continue to disappear in anthropogenic landscapes in Uganda. To slow down further loss of these resources requires the collaboration of farmers in tree planting in agroforestry systems. Tree planting interventions with the collaboration of farmers require a good understanding of tree management practices as well as trees that best satisfy farmers’ needs. We carried out this research to determine (1) the most preferred tree species and reasons why they are preferred, (2) the species conservation statuses, and (3) existing tree management practices and challenges to tree planting. Fourteen priority species valued because they yield edible fruits and timber have been prioritised in this study. Farmers are interested in managing trees but are constrained by many factors, key among which is scarcity of land and financial capital to manage tree planting. Trees are managed in crop fields and around the homestead. From farmers’ reports, the highly valued species are increasing in the landscape. In conclusion, the potential to manage trees in agroforestry systems exists but is hampered by many challenges. Secondly, the liking of trees that supply edible fruits seems to support the welfare maximisation theory which ideally states that rural people manage trees with the aim of having regular access to products that satisfy their household needs and not for income generation.
Internal Jugular Venous Pseudoaneurysm in a Patient with Heart Failure and Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation
Authors: Phookan Sujoy , Strickland Patrick T. , Hanna Bishoy , Hartlage Gregory R. , Parikh Ankit , Clements Stephen D.
Published: May 2017

The differential diagnosis of a lateral neck mass includes a number of possible etiologies. While jugular venous aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms are rare entities, they should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a pulsatile lateral neck mass. We present a case of an idiopathic jugular venous pseudoaneurysm and its association with worsening tricuspid regurgitation in a patient with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.
Modeling of a Piezoelectric MEMS Micropump Dedicated to Insulin Delivery and Experimental Validation Using Integrated Pressure Sensors: Application to Partial Occlusion Management
Authors: Fournier S. , Chappel E.
Published: May 2017

A numerical model based on equivalent electrical networks has been built to simulate the dynamic behavior of a positive-displacement MEMS micropump dedicated to insulin delivery. This device comprises a reservoir in direct communication with the inlet check valve, a pumping membrane actuated by a piezo actuator, two integrated piezoresistive pressure sensors, an anti-free-flow check valve at the outlet, and finally a fluidic pathway up to the patient cannula. The pressure profiles delivered by the sensors are continuously analyzed during the therapy in order to detect failures like occlusion. The numerical modeling is a reliable way to better understand the behavior of the micropump in case of failure. The experimental pressure profiles measured during the actuation phase have been used to validate the numerical modeling. The effect of partial occlusion on the pressure profiles has been also simulated. Based on this analysis, a new management of partial occlusion for MEMS micropump is finally proposed.
Defining an Optimal Cut-Point Value in ROC Analysis: An Alternative Approach
Authors: Unal Ilker
Published: May 2017

ROC curve analysis is often applied to measure the diagnostic accuracy of a biomarker. The analysis results in two gains: diagnostic accuracy of the biomarker and the optimal cut-point value. There are many methods proposed in the literature to obtain the optimal cut-point value. In this study, a new approach, alternative to these methods, is proposed. The proposed approach is based on the value of the area under the ROC curve. This method defines the optimal cut-point value as the value whose sensitivity and specificity are the closest to the value of the area under the ROC curve and the absolute value of the difference between the sensitivity and specificity values is minimum. This approach is very practical. In this study, the results of the proposed method are compared with those of the standard approaches, by using simulated data with different distribution and homogeneity conditions as well as a real data. According to the simulation results, the use of the proposed method is advised for finding the true cut-point.
A Case of “Late” Postsurgical Hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Simões Cesar Augusto , Costa M. K. , Comerlato L. B. , Ogusco A. A. , Araújo Filho V. , Dedivitis R. A. , Cernea C. R.
Published: May 2017

Introduction. Postsurgical hypoparathyroidism normally occurs a short time after thyroid surgery in form of two clinical syndromes of different etiology and prognosis. The first is transitory and might spontaneously recover within a few weeks or months. The second is permanent and needs a definitive treatment. Only few cases of hypoparathyroidism clinically evident after many years from surgery have been reported. Case Report. A case of hypoparathyroidism clinically evident only three and a half years after surgery is reported. Our findings and review of a few cases reported by medical literature suggest the existence of a third form of postsurgical hypoparathyroidism, characterized by a late beginning.
Mechanisms and Consequences of Dopamine Depletion-Induced Attenuation of the Spinophilin/Neurofilament Medium Interaction
Authors: Hiday Andrew C. , Edler Michael C. , Salek Asma B. , Morris Cameron W. , Thang Morrent , Rentz Tyler J. , Rose Kristie L. , Jones Lisa M. , Baucum Anthony J.
Published: May 2017

Signaling changes that occur in the striatum following the loss of dopamine neurons in the Parkinson disease (PD) are poorly understood. While increases in the activity of kinases and decreases in the activity of phosphatases have been observed, the specific consequences of these changes are less well understood. Phosphatases, such as protein phosphatase 1 (PP1), are highly promiscuous and obtain substrate selectivity via targeting proteins. Spinophilin is the major PP1-targeting protein enriched in the postsynaptic density of striatal dendritic spines. Spinophilin association with PP1 is increased concurrent with decreases in PP1 activity in an animal model of PD. Using proteomic-based approaches, we observed dopamine depletion-induced decreases in spinophilin binding to multiple protein classes in the striatum. Specifically, there was a decrease in the association of spinophilin with neurofilament medium (NF-M) in dopamine-depleted striatum. Using a heterologous cell line, we determined that spinophilin binding to NF-M required overexpression of the catalytic subunit of protein kinase A and was decreased by cyclin-dependent protein kinase 5. Functionally, we demonstrate that spinophilin can decrease NF-M phosphorylation. Our data determine mechanisms that regulate, and putative consequences of, pathological changes in the association of spinophilin with NF-M that are observed in animal models of PD.
Therapeutic Outcomes of Patients with Multifocal Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinomas and Larger Tumors
Authors: Ng Soh-Ching , Kuo Sheng-Fong , Chen Szu-Tah , Hsueh Chuen , Huang Bie-Yu , Lin Jen-Der
Published: May 2017

A retrospective review of 626 patients with multifocal papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) including 147 patients (23.5%) with multifocal papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) from a total of 2,536 patients with PTC who visited the Chang Gung Medical Center in Linkou, Taiwan, was performed. A comparison of the clinical features between 626 multifocal and 1,910 solitary PTC cases showed that patients in the multifocal PTC group were older and had a smaller mean tumor size, a more advanced tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage, and a higher percentage of nonremission status compared to patients in the solitary PTC group. Of the 626 patients with multifocal PTC, the group with larger tumors showed a more advanced TNM stage, a higher percentage of lymph node metastasis and soft tissue invasion, and a higher nonremission rate compared to the multifocal PTMC group. Of the 626 patients with multifocal PTC, 25 patients (4%) died during a mean follow-up period of 7.1 ± 5.3 years. Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed a significantly lower survival rate associated with multifocal PTMC compared to that with solitary PTMC.
Comparing an Approximate Queuing Approach with Simulation for the Solution of a Cross-Docking Problem
Authors: Briesemeister Roberta , Novaes Antônio G. N.
Published: May 2017

Cross-docking is a logistics management concept in which products are temporarily unloaded at intermediate facilities and loaded onto output trucks to be sent to their final destination. In this paper, we propose an approximate nonstationary queuing model to size the number of docks to receive the trucks, so that their unloading will be as short as possible at the receiving dock, thus making the cross-docking process more efficient. It is observed that the stochastic queuing process may not reach the steady equilibrium state. A type of modeling that does not depend on the stationary characteristics of the process developed is applied. In order to measure the efficiency, performance, and possible adjustments of the parameters of the algorithm, an alternative simulation model is proposed using the Arena® software. The simulation uses analytic tools to make the problem more detailed, which is not allowed in the theoretical model. The computational analysis compares the results of the simulated model with the ones obtained with the theoretical algorithm, considering the queue length and the average waiting time of the trucks. Based on the results obtained, the simulation represented very well the proposed problem and possible changes can be easily detected with small adjustments in the simulated model.
Infection Control Measures in Private Dental Clinics in Lebanon
Authors: Dagher Jihad , Sfeir Charles , Abdallah Ahmad , Majzoub Zeina
Published: May 2017

Purpose. Evaluate infection control knowledge, attitude, and practice in Lebanese private dental clinics.Materials and Methods. A survey including 46 questions related to routine safety procedures was sent to 1150 Lebanese dentists between July 1st and 2nd, 2015. The study sample was selected from the database of registered dentists based on a proportional random sampling ensuring equitable representation of the 5 geographic regions of Lebanon. A subset of 29 questions was used to generate an overall score of compliance (excellent, good, fair, and poor). Comparisons according to gender, type, region, and years of practice were performed.Results. 417 dentists returned the completed questionnaires. 96% expressed concern about infection transmission, 90.6% were vaccinated against Hepatitis B, and 61.8% asked routinely about patients medical history. Only 43% used protective eyewear. Although most dentists (65%) used autoclaves, dry heat was still used. Significant correlations were found between gender and use of personal protective equipment. Less compliance was shown by clinicians with fewer years of experience. In the overall compliance questionnaire, the mean percentage of correct answers was roughly 54% with <5% of the practitioners scoring “excellent.”Conclusions. The study found inadequacy of compliance in private Lebanese dental clinics necessitating improved educational training and sustained monitoring by regulatory bodies.
Treatment of Hypochondriasis in Two Schizophrenia Patients Using Clozapine
Authors: Tundo Antonio , Proietti Luca , de Filippis Rocco
Published: May 2017

Hypochondriasis (HYPO), an obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorder, is frequent in patients with schizophrenia (SCH) (20%), especially among those treated with clozapine (36.7%). Treatment options for OCS/OCD in patients under clozapine (CLZ) include combining clozapine with amisulpride/aripiprazole or a mood stabilizer, augmenting clozapine with a serotoninergic reuptake inhibitor, adding cognitive behavioural therapy, and gradually reducing dosage. No treatments have been proposed for HYPO in patients using clozapine so we examine these options in 2 cases and report the results. Among treatments delivered, only dosage reduction adequately worked. We recommend caution when thinking about escalating treatment and suggest trying it only when alternative interventions were not successful and weighing risk and benefits of this therapeutic strategy. Further research is needed to confirm the hypothesis that CLZ treatment induces hypochondriac symptoms, to investigate the prevalence of the phenomenon, and, mostly, to identify possible treatment strategies.
Genetic Polymorphisms of Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte Antigen 4 in Primary Biliary Cholangitis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Xing-Chen , Fujino Masayuki , Cai Song-Jie , Li Shao-Wei , Liu Chi , Li Xiao-Kang
Published: May 2017

Background and Aim. The connection between gene polymorphisms of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA4) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is still vague and blurred. The purpose of this study is to precisely estimate the association of the polymorphisms of CTLA4 with the risk of PBC by using a meta-analysis. Methods. PubMed and the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database were used to search correlative literatures, and the documents which were about the relationships between the polymorphisms of CTLA4 (rs231775, rs231725, rs3087243, and rs5742909) and PBC were collected as of June 2016. The strength of correlation based on odds ratios (ORs) and its 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) was computed by STATA. Results. Generally, in rs231775, a significant risk was found in G allele, the value of OR was 1.32, and its 95%CI was 1.19 to 1.47. The same situation was found in A allele of rs231725, the value of OR was 1.33, and its 95%CI was 1.22 to 1.45. As genotypic level, different genotypic models were also found to have obvious relevance with PBC in rs231775 and rs231725. No obvious connections were found in other SNPs. Conclusion. This study indicated that the polymorphisms of rs231775 and rs231725 would be the risk factors of PBC.
Herbal and Alternative Medicine Use in Tanzanian Adults Admitted with Hypertension-Related Diseases: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Liwa Anthony , Roediger Rebecca , Jaka Hyasinta , Bougaila Amina , Smart Luke , Langwick Stacey , Peck Robert
Published: May 2017

Background. Hypertension is increasingly common in sub-Saharan Africa where traditional medicine use is also common. We conducted a hospital-based, mixed-methods study to determine prevalence, pattern, and correlates of herbal and alternative medicine use in Tanzanian adults hospitalized with hypertension. Methods. A standardized questionnaire was administered. In-depth interviews were performed on a subset of participants. Factors associated with herbal medicine use were determined by logistic regression. The association between traditional medicine uses and allopathic medication adherence was determined using ordinal logistic regression. Qualitative data were analyzed according to grounded theory. Results. Of 213 adults enrolled, 52 (24.4%) reported using herbs during the previous month and 47 (22.1%) reported concurrent use of herbs and allopathic medicines. Lower educational level, nonprofessional employment, and lack of health insurance were significantly associated with herbal medicine use. Alternative medicines use was not associated with lower medication adherence. Qualitative interviews identified several important themes including reasons for herbal medicine use. Conclusion. The use of traditional medicines is very common among patients with hypertension. Adults from low socioeconomic status, those with misunderstandings about hypertension, and those without health insurance were more likely to take herbs. Open, nonjudgmental communication between healthcare workers and patients regarding use of traditional medicines must be encouraged in Africa.
Homocysteine Induces Apoptosis of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells via Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Zhang Zhimin , Wei Congying , Zhou Yanfen , Yan Tao , Wang Zhengqiang , Li Wei , Zhao Lianyou
Published: May 2017

Homocysteine‐ (Hcy‐) induced endothelial cell apoptosis has been suggested as a cause of Hcy‐dependent vascular injury, while the proposed molecular pathways underlying this process are unclear. In this study, we investigated the adverse effects of Hcy on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and the underlying mechanisms. Our results demonstrated that moderate‐dose Hcy treatment induced HUVEC apoptosis in a time‐dependent manner. Furthermore, prolonged Hcy treatment increased the expression of NOX4 and the production of intracellular ROS but decreased the ratio of Bcl‐2/Bax and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), resulting in the leakage of cytochrome c and activation of caspase‐3. Prolonged Hcy treatment also upregulated glucose‐regulated protein 78 (GRP78), activated protein kinase RNA‐like ER kinase (PERK), and induced the expression of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and the phosphorylation of NF‐κb. The inhibition of NOX4 decreased the production of ROS and alleviated the Hcy‐induced HUVEC apoptosis and ER stress. Blocking the PERK pathway partly alleviated Hcy‐induced HUVEC apoptosis and the activation of NF‐κb. Taken together, our results suggest that Hcy‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction crucially modulated apoptosis and contributed to the activation of ER stress in HUVEC. The excessive activation of the PERK pathway partly contributed to Hcy‐induced HUVEC apoptosis and the phosphorylation of NF‐κb.
Combination Treatment with PPARγLigand and Its Specific Inhibitor GW9662 Downregulates BIS and 14-3-3 Gamma, Inhibiting Stem-Like Properties in Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Im Chang-Nim
Published: May 2017

PPARγis a nuclear receptor that regulates differentiation and proliferation and is highly expressed in many cancer cells. Its synthetic ligands, such as rosiglitazone and ciglitazone, and its inhibitor GW9662, were shown to induce cellular differentiation, inhibit proliferation, and lead to apoptosis. Glioblastoma is a common brain tumor with poor survival prospects. Recently, glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) have been examined as a potential target for anticancer therapy; however, little is known about the combined effect of various agents on GSCs. In this study, we found that cotreatment with PPARγligands and GW9662 inhibited stem-like properties in GSC-like spheres, which significantly express SOX2. In addition, this treatment decreased the activation of STAT3 and AKT and decreased the amounts of 14-3-3 gamma and BIS proteins. Moreover, combined administration of small-interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection with PPARγligands induced downregulation of SOX2 and MMP2 activity together with inhibition of sphere-forming activity regardless of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage. Taken together, our findings suggest that a combination therapy using PPARγligands and its inhibitor could be a potential therapeutic strategy targeting GSCs.
Rotor Speed Control of a Direct-Driven Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator-Based Wind Turbine Using Phase-Lag Compensators to Optimize Wind Power Extraction
Authors: Hamatwi Ester , Davidson Innocent E. , Gitau Michael N.
Published: May 2017

Due to the intermittent nature of wind, the wind power output tends to be inconsistent, and hence maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is usually employed to optimize the power extracted from the wind resource at a wide range of wind speeds. This paper deals with the rotor speed control of a 2 MW direct-driven permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) to achieve MPPT. The proportional-integral (PI), proportional-derivative (PD), and proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controllers have widely been employed in MPPT studies owing to their simple structure and simple design procedure. However, there are a number of shortcomings associated with these controllers; the trial-and-error design procedure used to determine the P, I, and D gains presents a possibility for poorly tuned controller gains, which reduces the accuracy and the dynamic performance of the entire control system. Moreover, these controllers’ linear nature, constricted operating range, and their sensitivity to changes in machine parameters make them ineffective when applied to nonlinear and uncertain systems. On the other hand, phase-lag compensators are associated with a design procedure that is well defined from fundamental principles as opposed to the aforementioned trial-and-error design procedure. This makes the latter controller type more accurate, although it is not well developed yet, and hence it is the focus of this paper. The simulation results demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed MPPT controller.
Variations in Nutrients Composition of Most Commonly Consumed Cassava (Manihot esculenta) Mixed Dishes in South-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Davidson G. I. , Ene-Obong H. N. , Chinma C. E.
Published: May 2017

Variations in nutrient composition of most commonly consumed cassava (Manihot esculenta) mixed dishes in South-eastern Nigeria were determined. Four communities were randomly selected from each of the five states in the South-east. Focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted in each of the communities to determine commonly consumed foods and variations in recipes. 24-Hour dietary recall was conducted using 50 randomly selected households in those communities. Recipes collected during the FGD were standardized, prepared, and chemically analysed using standard methods. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Cassava-based dishes were the most commonly consumed in South-eastern Nigeria. Ninety-two percent of the study population ate cassava either in form of “fufu” (fermented cassava meal)/garri (fermented and roasted cassava meal) with soup or as “abacha” (tapioca salad). Commonly consumed soups were melon (Citrullus vulgaris) seeds, “ora” (Pterocarpus soyauxii), and vegetable soups. Seven melon seed, six “ora,” and four vegetable soups and five “abacha” variations were identified. Except for vegetable soup, coefficient of variation for moisture was <10%, while large variations (19–71%) were observed for energy and nutrients. These variations in cassava-based dishes need to be reflected in the country-specific food composition database to enable nutrient intake assessment or provision of dietary guidance using such food composition database as a reference material to be more effective.
Prediction Method for the Radial Runout of Inner Ring in Cylindrical Roller Bearings
Authors: Yu Yongjian , Chen Guoding , Li Jishun , Xue Yujun , Pang Bitao
Published: May 2017

The motion error of assembled bearing depends on the geometric profile of bearing components. Therefore, it is crucial to establish the relationship between geometric error of bearing components and motion error of assembled bearing, which contributes to improving the rotational accuracy of assembled bearing in the design and machining of the bearing. The main purpose of this research is to propose an accurate method for predicting the radial runout of inner ring based on the geometrical constraint model of cylindrical roller bearings. In the geometrical constraint model, dimension and form errors in the inner raceway, the outer raceway, and rollers are considered, and the change of contact positions between the raceways and rollers caused by geometric errors of bearing components is taken into account. This method could predict the radial runout of inner ring after bearing components with geometric error are assembled. In order to testify the validity of the proposed prediction method, two particular cases in which the profiles of the inner raceway are circle and ellipse are selected, and the analysis algorithms for the radial runout of inner ring are derived. Two analytical results obtained from the analysis algorithms validate accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed prediction method.
Solving a Two‐Stage Stochastic Capacitated Location‐Allocation Problem with an Improved PSO in Emergency Logistics
Authors: Deng Ye , Zhu Wanhong , Tang Jian , Qin Jianfei
Published: May 2017

A stochastic expected value model and its deterministic conversion are developed to formulate a two‐stage stochastic capacitated location‐allocation (LA) problem in emergency logistics; that is, the number and capacities of supply centers are both decision variables. To solve these models, an improved particle swarm optimization algorithm with the Gaussian cloud operator, the Restart strategy, and the adaptive parameter strategy is developed. The algorithm is integrated with the interior point method to solve the second‐stage model. The numerical example proves the effectiveness and efficiency of the conversion method for the stochastic model and the proposed strategies that improve the algorithm.
Interaction of Polyaniline with Surface of Carbon Steel
Authors: Sokolova Maria P. , Smirnov Michael A. , Kasatkin Igor A. , Dmitriev Ivan Yu. , Saprykina Natalia N. , Toikka Alexander M. , Lahderanta Erkki , Elyashevich Galina K.
Published: May 2017

The structure and barrier properties of the oxyhydroxide layers on a carbon steel surface covered with electroactive polyaniline were investigated. Two types of polymer structure differing in degree of macromolecular order were prepared by simultaneous (fast polymerization) or dropwise (slow polymerization) mixing of reagents. A larger amount of the most stable FeOOH modification was formed on steel covered with slowly polymerized sample during treatment in the corrosion-active medium. Amorphous rust products with weak barrier properties were observed in the sample prepared by fast polymerization. Additionally, barrier activity of dedoped polyaniline was studied with SEM, WAXD, and electrochemical methods.
Facile Hydrothermal Synthesis of SnO2 Nanospheres as Photocatalysts
Authors: Hu Wenquan , Yuan Xiaoguang
Published: May 2017

Large amounts of SnO2 nanospheres are successfully synthesized through a simple and effective hydrothermal method. The as-synthesized products consist of numerous small SnO2 nanocrystals with an average diameter of 40 nm. The as-prepared SnO2 nanospheres are further used as the photocatalysts for photodegrading several organic dyes (methylene blue, methyl orange, Congo red, and rhodamine B) under UV light irradiation. The photocatalytic results show that the as-synthesized SnO2 nanospheres possess high photocatalytic activities. Compared with the degradation rates of other dyes, that of methylene blue reaches 98.5% by 30 min irradiation. It reveals that the as-prepared product might be potential candidate in wastewater purification.
Investigation of Properties of Silk Fiber Produced in Ethiopia
Authors: Banale Ayano Koyrita
Published: May 2017

The atmospheric conditions and other facilities to rear silk filaments are good in Ethiopia. In Awassa, Awash Melkassa, and Kombolcha silk rearing is started with good progress. The quality of the cocoons produced in the country is not determined in relation to commercial silk produced in major silk producing countries. So far there was no information available about the basic properties of silk filaments produced. In this research paper, the different physical properties of the eri and mulberry cocoon and their filaments were evaluated. Eri cocoons have shell ratio of approximately 14%, average fiber fineness of 3 dtex, and average weight of 3.2–3.3 g, while mulberry cocoons have raw silk ratio of 13-14%, average fiber fineness of 2 dtex, and average weight of 1.5 g. Even though the method of rearing, handling, and harvesting of the cocoons is poor, the physical properties of the silk produced in Ethiopia fall within the limits of commercial silk produced in major silk producing countries.
Prediction of Seawall Settlement Based on a Combined LS‐ARIMA Model
Authors: Qin Peng , Cheng Chunmei
Published: May 2017

The analysis and prediction of seawall settlement are important for seawall engineering maintenance and disaster prevention. Based on the measured seawall settlement time series data, a combined LS‐ARIMA forecasting model that fits the trend item by the least‐square (LS) method and the season item by the differential self‐regression moving average (ARIMA) model was proposed in this study. The monitoring data of one seawall project in Zhejiang, China, is taken as an example to verify the model efficiency and prediction ability. The results show that the prediction accuracy of the new combined LS‐ARIMA model was high, with the average relative error (ARE) of 0.23%, much better than that of the traditional ARIMA model (ARE = 0.70%) and the GM (1, 1) model (ARE = 33.43%). This new model has clear physical conception and can effectively improve the prediction accuracy, implying that it can fully tap the dynamic information of monitoring data. The proposed model in this study provides a new research idea for data analysis and prediction of the seawall settlement.
Efficacy and Safety of Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Polidocanol Sclerotherapy in Benign Cystic Thyroid Nodules: Preliminary Results
Authors: Gong Xiaohua , Zhou Qi , Wang Fang , Wu Wenjun , Chen Xiaojun
Published: May 2017

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous polidocanol injection (PPI) in treating cystic thyroid nodules. Materials and Methods. A total of 158 cystic or predominantly cystic thyroid nodules (>80% cystic component) in 143 patients were evaluated. 114 patients with compressive symptoms or aesthetic complaints were offered PPI. 44 individuals without compressive symptoms and aesthetic complaints who were only followed up clinically were used as the control group. The efficacy and safety of PPI were evaluated for 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 12 months of follow-up. Results. In the PPI group, the mean baseline volume of 15.6±18.9 cm3 reduced at the 1-month follow-up to 5.1±5.6 cm3 (p<0.001) and 0.6±0.9 (p<0.001), and nodules shrunk according to the time after PPI (p<0.001). A complete response (if ≥70% decrease) to PPI at the 12-month follow-up occurred in 100% of the cystic or predominant cystic nodules. None of the nodules recurred at the 12-month follow-up after PPI. The side effects were mild. Twenty patients (17.5%) developed mild localized pain, and fourteen cases (12.3%) experienced mild or moderate fever after PPI. Conclusions. PPI is a safe and effective alternative to treat benign cystic or predominant cystic thyroid nodules.
Examination of the Microbial Spectrum in the Etiology of Erythema Nodosum: A Retrospective Descriptive Study
Authors: Ozbagcivan Ozlem , Akarsu Sevgi , Avci Ceylan , Inci Burcu Bahar , Fetil Emel
Published: May 2017

Even though infections are the most common cause of erythema nodosum (EN), only certain microorganisms take the great interest such as streptococci in knowledge. Our aim was to examine the frequency and type of infections in EN, to determine the characteristics of patients with an infectious etiology, and to discuss the role of these microbes in EN pathology in the context of their interactions with humans. Charts of 81 patients with EN who were seen between 2003 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Identified etiological factors were classified into three groups: infectious, noninfectious, and idiopathic. While there were no significant demographic and clinical differences between the infectious and idiopathic groups, systemic symptoms (p=0.034) and the number of EN lesions (p=0.016) were significantly lower; the mean erythrocyte sedimentation rate was significantly higher (p=0.049), but the mean aspartate aminotransferase value was significantly lower in the infectious group compared to the noninfectious group (p=0.019). Besides streptococci, many other microbes, including the ones living on and inside us, were identified in the etiology of EN. There is a need for large-scale prospective studies involving control groups for a better understanding of the microbial immunopathology of EN.
Effect of Microstructural Changes during Annealing on Thermoelectromotive Force and Resistivity of Electrodeposited Ni85.8Fe10.6W1.4Cu2.2 Alloy
Authors: Spasojević M. , Maričić A. , Vuković Z. , Đukić S. , Ribić-Zelenović L. , Spasojević M.
Published: May 2017

Ni85.8Fe10.6W1.4Cu2.2 alloy powder containing nanocrystals of an FCC-structured solid solution of iron, tungsten, and copper in nickel embedded in an amorphous matrix was electrodeposited from an ammonia citrate solution. The alloy exhibits thermal stability in the temperature range between 25°C and 150°C. Over the range 150−360°C, the alloy undergoes intense structural relaxation which considerably increases the electron density of states and, hence, its electrical conductivity. Less intense structural relaxation takes place at temperatures between 360°C and 420°C. In the temperature range of 420°C to 460°C, relatively more intense changes in the electron density of states at the Fermi level occur, as induced by the structural relaxation resulting from the stabilization of larger less mobile tungsten atoms and copper atoms. The large decrease in electrical resistivity and the high increase in the electron density of states at the Fermi level in the temperature range 460−520°C are due to amorphous matrix crystallization and FCC-phase crystal grain growth.
In Vivo 3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging Using a Biologically Specific Contrast Agent for Prostate Cancer: A Nude Mouse Model
Authors: Abraham Christopher Brian , Jani Prashant , Turuba Roxanne , Campbell Michael , Zehbe Ingeborg , Curiel Laura
Published: May 2017

We characterized in vivo a functional superparamagnetic iron-oxide magnetic resonance contrast agent that shortens the T2 relaxation time in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of prostate cancer xenografts. The agent was developed by conjugating Molday ION™ carboxyl-6 (MIC6), with a deimmunized mouse monoclonal antibody (muJ591) targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA). This functional contrast agent could be used as a noninvasive method to detect prostate cancer cells that are PSMA positive and more readily differentiate them from surrounding tissues for treatment. The functional contrast agent was injected intravenously into mice and its effect was compared to both MIC6 (without conjugated antibody) and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) injection controls. MR imaging was performed on a clinical 3T MRI scanner using a multiecho spin echo (MESE) sequence to obtain T2 relaxation time values. Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy was used to confirm an increase in elemental iron in injected mice tumours relative to controls. Histological examination of H&E stained tissues showed normal morphology of the tissues collected.
A Simple Bone Cyst in Cervical Vertebrae of an Adolescent Patient
Authors: Boude Adriana Bruges , Vásquez Lina González , Alvarado-Gomez Fernando , Bedoya María Constanza , Rodríguez-Múnera Andrés , Morales-Saenz Luis Carlos
Published: May 2017

Introduction. Spinal simple bone cysts, also known as solitary cysts, are extremely unusual benign primary bone tumors with few cases reported in the literature. Case Presentation. Incidental Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) finding of a C2 Simple bone cyst in a 13-year-old female patient is reported. Complementary studies suggested the benign nature of the lesion. Patient underwent cervical curettage followed by tumor excision. A lateral submandibular approach to the upper cervical spine was used and careful bone resection was possible with a radiofrequency assisted burr and no instrumentation or fixation was required. The stability of the defect was ensured by filling it with bone allograft and by prescribing a postsurgical plastic cervical collar to maintain neck immobilization. Histological examination supported the diagnosis of simple bone cyst. At 6–12-month follow-up the patient presented no recurrence or symptomatology. Conclusions. Solitary bone cysts are infrequent entities in the cervical vertebrae and preservation of spine stability without instrumentation to avoid neurological complications is often challenging. In this case, the proximity of the cyst to the right vertebral artery and the risk of injury were high; however the surgical approach used was successful and no recurrence or instability was evidenced on postoperative MRI.
An Integrative Developmental Genomics and Systems Biology Approach to Identify an In Vivo Sox Trio-Mediated Gene Regulatory Network in Murine Embryos
Authors: Lee Wenqing Jean , Chatterjee Sumantra , Yap Sook Peng , Lim Siew Lan , Xing Xing , Kraus Petra , Sun Wenjie , Hu Xiaoming , Sivakamasundari V. , Chan Hsiao Yun , Kolatkar Prasanna R. , Prabhakar Shyam , Lufkin Thomas
Published: May 2017

Embryogenesis is an intricate process involving multiple genes and pathways. Some of the key transcription factors controlling specific cell types are the Sox trio, namely, Sox5, Sox6, and Sox9, which play crucial roles in organogenesis working in a concerted manner. Much however still needs to be learned about their combinatorial roles during this process. A developmental genomics and systems biology approach offers to complement the reductionist methodology of current developmental biology and provide a more comprehensive and integrated view of the interrelationships of complex regulatory networks that occur during organogenesis. By combining cell type-specific transcriptome analysis and in vivo ChIP-Seq of the Sox trio using mouse embryos, we provide evidence for the direct control of Sox5 and Sox6 by the transcriptional trio in the murine model and by Morpholino knockdown in zebrafish and demonstrate the novel role of Tgfb2, Fbxl18, and Tle3 in formation of Sox5, Sox6, and Sox9 dependent tissues. Concurrently, a complete embryonic gene regulatory network has been generated, identifying a wide repertoire of genes involved and controlled by the Sox trio in the intricate process of normal embryogenesis.
To Use or Not to Use Metformin in Cerebral Ischemia: A Review of the Application of Metformin in Stroke Rodents
Authors: Arbeláez-Quintero Isaac , Palacios Mauricio
Published: May 2017

Ischemic strokes are major causes of death and disability. Searching for potential therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat stroke is necessary, given the increase in overall life expectancy. Epidemiological reports indicate that metformin is an oral antidiabetic medication that can reduce the incidence of ischemic events in patients with diabetesmellitus. Its mechanism of action has not been elucidated, but metformin pleiotropic effects involve actions in addition to glycemic control. AMPK activation has been described as one of the pharmacological mechanisms that explain the action of metformin and that lead to neuroprotective effects. Most experiments done in the cerebral ischemia model, via middle cerebral artery occlusion in rodents (MCAO), had positive results favoring metformin’s neuroprotective role and involve several cellular pathways like oxidative stress, endothelial nitric oxide synthase activation, activation of angiogenesis and neurogenesis, autophagia, and apoptosis. We will review the pharmacological properties of metformin and its possible mechanisms that lead to neuroprotection in cerebral ischemia.