bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary gas exchange efficiency during exercise breathing normoxic and hypoxic gas in adults born very preterm with low diffusion capacity
Authors: Duke Joseph W. , Elliott Jonathan E. , Laurie Steven S. , Beasley Kara M. , Mangum Tyler S. , Hawn Jerold A. , Gladstone Igor M. , Lovering Andrew T.
Published: June 2014

Adults with a history of very preterm birth (<32 wk gestational age; PRET) have reduced lung function and significantly lower lung diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) relative to individuals born at term (CONT). Low DLCO may predispose PRET to diffusion limitation during exercise, particularly while breathing hypoxic gas because of a reduced O2 driving gradient and pulmonary capillary transit time. We hypothesized that PRET would have significantly worse pulmonary gas exchange efficiency [i.e., increased alveolar-to-arterial Po2 difference (AaDO2)] during exercise breathing room air or hypoxic gas (FiO2 = 0.12) compared with CONT. To test this hypothesis, we compared the AaDO2 in PRET ( n = 13) with a clinically mild reduction in DLCO (72 ± 7% of predicted) and CONT ( n = 14) with normal DLCO (105 ± 10% of predicted) pre- and during exercise breathing room air and hypoxic gas. Measurements of temperature-corrected arterial blood gases, and direct measure of O2 saturation (SaO2), were made prior to and during exercise at 25, 50, and 75% of peak oxygen consumption (V̇o2peak) while breathing room air and hypoxic gas. In addition to DLCO, pulmonary function and exercise capacity were significantly less in PRET. Despite PRET having low DLCO, no differences were observed in the AaDO2 or SaO2 pre- or during exercise breathing room air or hypoxic gas compared with CONT. Although our findings were unexpected, we conclude that reduced pulmonary function and low DLCO resulting from very preterm birth does not cause a measureable reduction in pulmonary gas exchange efficiency.
Functional expression of α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors by muscle afferent neurons
Authors: Baxter James C. , Ramachandra Renuka , Mayne Dustin R. , Elmslie Keith S.
Published: June 2014

The exercise pressor reflex (EPR) is generated by group III and IV muscle afferents during exercise to increase cardiovascular function. Muscle contraction is triggered by ACh, which is metabolized into choline that could serve as a signal of exercise-induced activity. We demonstrate that ACh can induce current in muscle afferents neurons isolated from male Sprague-Dawley rats. The nicotinic ACh receptors (nAChRs) appear to be expressed by some group III-IV neurons since capsaicin (TRPV1) and/or ATP (P2X) induced current in 56% of ACh-responsive neurons. α7- And α4β2-nAChRs have been shown to be expressed in sensory neurons. An α7-nAChR antibody stained 83% of muscle afferent neurons. Functional expression was demonstrated by using the specific α7-nAChR blockers α-conotoxin ImI (IMI) and methyllycaconitine (MLA). MLA inhibited ACh responses in 100% of muscle afferent neurons, whereas IMI inhibited ACh responses in 54% of neurons. Dihydro-β-erythroidine, an α4β2-nAChR blocker, inhibited ACh responses in 50% of muscle afferent neurons, but recovery from block was not observed. Choline, an α7-nAChR agonist, elicited a response in 60% of ACh-responsive neurons. Finally, we demonstrated the expression of α7-nAChR by peripherin labeled (group IV) afferent fibers within gastrocnemius muscles. Some of these α7-nAChR-positive fibers were also positive for P2X3 receptors. Thus choline could serve as an activator of the EPR by opening α7-nAChR expressed by group IV (and possible group III) afferents. nAChRs could become pharmacological targets for suppressing the excessive EPR activation in patients with peripheral vascular disease.
Prolonged synaptic currents increase relay neuron firing at the developing retinogeniculate synapse
Authors: Hauser Jessica L. , Liu Xiaojin , Litvina Elizabeth Y. , Chen Chinfei
Published: June 2014

The retinogeniculate synapse, the connection between retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and thalamic relay neurons, undergoes robust changes in connectivity over development. This process of synapse elimination and strengthening of remaining inputs is thought to require synapse specificity. Here we show that glutamate spillover and asynchronous release are prominent features of retinogeniculate synaptic transmission during this period. The immature excitatory postsynaptic currents exhibit a slow decay time course that is sensitive to low-affinity glutamate receptor antagonists and extracellular calcium concentrations, consistent with glutamate spillover. Furthermore, we uncover and characterize a novel, purely spillover-mediated AMPA receptor current from immature relay neurons. The isolation of this current strongly supports the presence of spillover between boutons of different RGCs. In addition, fluorescence measurements of presynaptic calcium transients suggest that prolonged residual calcium contributes to both glutamate spillover and asynchronous release. These data indicate that, during development, far more RGCs contribute to relay neuron firing than would be expected based on predictions from anatomy alone.
A Combination of Extended Fuzzy AHP and Fuzzy GRA for Government E-Tendering in Hybrid Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Wang Yan , Xi Chengyu , Zhang Shuai , Yu Dejian , Zhang Wenyu , Li Yong
Published: June 2014

The recent government tendering process being conducted in an electronic way is becoming an inevitable affair for numerous governmental agencies to further exploit the superiorities of conventional tendering. Thus, developing an effective web-based bid evaluation methodology so as to realize an efficient and effective government E-tendering (GeT) system is imperative. This paper firstly investigates the potentiality of employing fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) along with fuzzy gray relational analysis (GRA) for optimal selection of candidate tenderers in GeT process with consideration of a hybrid fuzzy environment with incomplete weight information. We proposed a novel hybrid fuzzy AHP-GRA (HFAHP-GRA) method that combines an extended fuzzy AHP with a modified fuzzy GRA. The extended fuzzy AHP which combines typical AHP with interval AHP is proposed to obtain the exact weight information, and the modified fuzzy GRA is applied to aggregate different types of evaluation information so as to identify the optimal candidate tenderers. Finally, a prototype system is built and validated with an illustrative example for GeT to confirm the feasibility of our approach.
New Expansion Formulas for a Family of theλ-Generalized Hurwitz-Lerch Zeta Functions
Authors: Srivastava H. M. , Gaboury Sébastien
Published: June 2014

We derive several new expansion formulas for a new family of theλ-generalized Hurwitz-Lerch zeta functions which were introduced by Srivastava (2014). These expansion formulas are obtained by making use of some important fractional calculus theorems such as the generalized Leibniz rules, the Taylor-like expansions in terms of different functions, and the generalized chain rule. Several (known or new) special cases are also considered.
Deterministic Echo State Networks Based Stock Price Forecasting
Authors: Dan Jingpei , Guo Wenbo , Shi Weiren , Fang Bin , Zhang Tingping
Published: June 2014

Echo state networks (ESNs), as efficient and powerful computational models for approximating nonlinear dynamical systems, have been successfully applied in financial time series forecasting. Reservoir constructions in standard ESNs rely on trials and errors in real applications due to a series of randomized model building stages. A novel form of ESN with deterministically constructed reservoir is competitive with standard ESN by minimal complexity and possibility of optimizations for ESN specifications. In this paper, forecasting performances of deterministic ESNs are investigated in stock price prediction applications. The experiment results on two benchmark datasets (Shanghai Composite Index and S&P500) demonstrate that deterministic ESNs outperform standard ESN in both accuracy and efficiency, which indicate the prospect of deterministic ESNs for financial prediction.
Predictive Ability of Improved Neural Network Models to Simulate Pollutant Dispersion
Authors: Hossain Khandaker M. A.
Published: June 2014

This paper describes the ability of artificial neural network (ANN) models to simulate the pollutant dispersion characteristics in varying urban atmospheres at different regions. ANN models are developed based on twelve meteorological (including rainfall/precipitation) and six traffic parameters/variables that have significant influence on emission/pollutant dispersion. The models are trained to predict concentration of carbon monoxide and particulate matters in urban atmospheres using field meteorological and traffic data. Training, validation, and testing of ANN models are conducted using data from the Dhaka city of Bangladesh. The models are used to simulate concentration of pollutants as well as the effect of rainfall on emission dispersion throughout the year and inversion condition during the night. The predicting ability and robustness of the models are then determined by using data of the coastal cities of Chittagong and Dhaka. ANN models based on both meteorological and traffic variables exhibit the best performance and are capable of resolving patterns of pollutant dispersion to the atmosphere for different cities.
A Case Report of Typhoidal Acute Acalculous Cholecystitis
Authors: Rajan Neeha , Motoroko Imeldah , Udayasiri Dilshan , McKenzie Jo-Lyn , Tan Jason S. C. , Tramontana Adrian R.
Published: June 2014

Introduction. Acalculous cholecystitis in the setting of typhoid fever in adults is an infrequent clinical encounter, reported sparsely in the literature. In this case report we review the presentation and management of enteric fever involving the biliary system and consider the literature surrounding this topic. The aim of this case report is to alert clinicians to the potential diagnosis of extraintestinal complications in the setting of typhoid fever in the returned traveller, requiring surgical intervention.Presentation of Case. We report the case of a 23-year-old woman with acalculous cholecystitis secondary toSalmonellaTyphi.Discussion. There is scarce evidence surrounding the optimal treatment and prognosis of typhoidal acalculous cholecystitis. In the current case, surgical invention was favoured due to failure of medical management.Conclusion. Clinical judgement dictated surgical intervention in this case of typhoidal acute acalculous cholecystitis, and cholecystectomy was safely performed.
Wireless Machine to Machine Based Mobile Substation Monitoring for District Heating System
Authors: Bo Cheng , Xin Cheng , Chengwen Zhang , Ying Liu , Junliang Chen
Published: June 2014

Central heating is a sophisticated process, and many factors influence the heating loading for boilers; without comprehensively monitoring and analysis, it is difficult to find out potential hazards of substation heating supplying electrical equipment. This paper presents a wireless machine to machine based district heating monitoring solution that uses smart mobile devices in a global network. In particular, focusing on the design and implementation for GPRS-based multiserial data transmission terminals to collect the PLC/OPC data in the substation, machine to machine communication network is used to handle the transmission monitoring data from boiler room to master station via GPRS devices and data center that uses different smart mobile devices in a global network, and we also illustrated the mobile substation monitoring scenarios for district heating system. Finally, we give the conclusions and future works.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Novel Pyrroles and Pyrrolopyrimidines as Anti-Hyperglycemic Agents
Authors: Mohamed M. S. , Ali S. A. , Abdelaziz D. H. A. , Fathallah Samar S.
Published: June 2014

A series of pyrrole and pyrrolopyrimidine derivatives were examined for theirin vivoantihyperglycemic activity. CompoundsIa–c,e, andIVgshowed promising antihyperglycemic activity equivalent to a well-known standard antihyperglycemic drug, Glimepiride (Amaryl, 4 mg/kg). In this paper, we examine and discuss the structure-activity relationships and antihyperglycemic activity of these compounds.
Dimensional Accuracy Enhancement in CNC Batch Grinding through Fractional Order Iterative Learning Compensation
Authors: Chen Tiantian , Tian Xincheng , Li Yan
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a systematic method to compensate for dimensional errors of workpieces machined in computer numerical control (CNC) batch grinding process. The dimensional error precompensation scheme includes a fractional order compensator, automatic dimensional measuring device, and a comparator. A practical fractional order differential plus low-pass iterative learning approach is used to update the compensation for the next workpiece. An incremental order updating law is proposed for the fractional system order identification, which plays a fundamental role to optimize the performance of grinding process. Then the error compensated numerical control (NC) program is fed to the machine tool for subsequent grinding. Several illustrated results show the effectiveness of the above strategy.
Aero‐Engine Fault Diagnosis Using Improved Local Discriminant Bases and Support Vector Machine
Authors: Cui Jianwei , Shan Mengxiao , Yan Ruqiang , Wu Yahui
Published: June 2014

This paper presents an effective approach for aero‐engine fault diagnosis with focus on rub‐impact, through combination of improved local discriminant bases (LDB) with support vector machine (SVM). The improved LDB algorithm, using both the normalized energy difference and the relative entropy as quantification measures, is applied to choose the optimal set of orthogonal subspaces for wavelet packet transform‐ (WPT‐) based signal decomposition. Then two optimal sets of orthogonal subspaces have been obtained and the energy features extracted from those subspaces appearing in both sets will be selected as input to a SVM classifier to diagnose aero‐engine faults. Experiment studies conducted on an aero‐engine rub‐impact test system have verified the effectiveness of the proposed approach for classifying working conditions of aero‐engines.
Astragalus Polysaccharide Protects Astrocytes from Being Infected by HSV‐1 through TLR3/NF‐κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Shi Lihong , Yin Fengling , Xin Xiangui , Mao Shumei , Hu Pingping , Zhao Chunzhen , Sun Xiuning
Published: June 2014

Astragalus polysaccharide (APS) is the most immunoreactive substance in Astragalus. APS can regulate the body’s immunity and is widely used in many immune related diseases. However, till now, there is little information about its contribution to the protection of astrocytes infected by virus. Toll‐like receptor 3 (TLR3) is a key component of the innate immune system and has the ability to detect virus infection and trigger host defence responses. This study was undertaken to elucidate the protective effect of APS on herpes simplex virus (HSV‐1) infected astrocytes and the underlying mechanisms. The results showed that APS protected the astrocytes from HSV‐1 induced proliferation inhibition along with increasing expression of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) markedly. Moreover, APS significantly promoted the expression of Toll‐like receptor 3 (TLR3) and the activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) in astrocytes. In addition, while astrocytes were pretreated with TLR3 antibody before adding HSV‐1 and APS, the expression of TLR3, TNF‐α, and IL‐6 and the activation of NF‐κB decreased sharply. These results indicate that APS can protect astrocytes by promoting immunological function provoked by HSV‐1 through TLR3/NF‐κB pathway.
DoDSM-5Eating Disorder Criteria Overpathologize Normative Eating Patterns among Individuals with Obesity?
Authors: Thomas Jennifer J. , Koh Katherine A. , Eddy Kamryn T. , Hartmann Andrea S. , Murray Helen B. , Gorman Mark J. , Sogg Stephanie , Becker Anne E.
Published: June 2014

Background.DSM-5revisions have been criticized in the popular press for overpathologizing normative eating patterns—particularly among individuals with obesity. To evaluate the evidence for this and otherDSM-5critiques, we compared the point prevalence and interrater reliability ofDSM-IVversusDSM-5eating disorders (EDs) among adults seeking weight-loss treatment.Method.Clinicians (n=2) assignedDSM-IVandDSM-5ED diagnoses to 100 participants via routine clinical interview. Research assessors (n=3) independently conferred ED diagnoses via Structured Clinical Interview forDSM-IVand aDSM-5checklist.Results. Research assessors diagnosed a similar proportion of participants with EDs underDSM-IV(29%) versusDSM-5(32%).DSM-5research diagnoses included binge eating disorder (9%), bulimia nervosa (2%), subthreshold binge eating disorder (5%), subthreshold bulimia nervosa (2%), purging disorder (1%), night eating syndrome (6%), and other (7%). Interrater reliability between clinicians and research assessors was “substantial” for bothDSM-IV(κ= 0.64, 84% agreement) andDSM-5(κ= 0.63, 83% agreement).Conclusion.DSM-5ED criteria can be reliably applied in an obesity treatment setting and appear to yield an overall ED point prevalence comparable toDSM-IV.
Two New Types of Fixed Point Theorems in Complete Metric Spaces
Authors: Khojasteh Farshid , Abbas Mujahid , Costache Simona
Published: June 2014

We introduce two new types of fixed point theorems in the collection of multivalued and single-valued mappings in complete metric spaces.
An Efficient Signal Reconstruction Algorithm for Stepped Frequency MIMO-SAR in the Spotlight and Sliding Spotlight Modes
Authors: Zhang Jiajia , Sun Guangcai , Xing Mengdao , Bao Zheng , Zhou Fang
Published: June 2014

Multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) using stepped frequency (SF) waveforms enables a high two-dimensional (2D) resolution with wider imaging swath at relatively low cost. However, only the stripmap mode has been discussed for SF MIMO-SAR. This paper presents an efficient algorithm to reconstruct the signal of SF MIMO-SAR in the spotlight and sliding spotlight modes, which includes Doppler ambiguity resolving algorithm based on subaperture division and an improved frequency-domain bandwidth synthesis (FBS) method. Both simulated and constructed data are used to validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Improving the Microstructure and Electrical Properties of Aluminum Induced Polysilicon Thin Films Using Silicon Nitride Capping Layer
Authors: Weng Min-Hang , Pan Cheng-Tang , Huang Chien-Wei , Yang Ru-Yuan
Published: June 2014

We investigated the capping layer effect of SiNx (silicon nitride) on the microstructure, electrical, and optical properties of poly‐Si (polycrystalline silicon) prepared by aluminum induced crystallization (AIC). The primary multilayer structure comprised Al (30 nm)/SiNx (20 nm)/a‐Si (amorphous silicon) layer (100 nm)/ITO coated glass and was then annealed in a low annealing temperature of 350°C with different annealing times, 15, 30, 45, and 60 min. The crystallization properties were analyzed and verified by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectra. The grain growth was analyzed via optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The improved electrical properties such as Hall mobility, resistivity, and dark conductivity were investigated by using Hall and current‐voltage (I‐V) measurements. The results show that the amorphous silicon film has been effectively induced even at a low temperature of 350°C and a short annealing time of 15 min and indicate that the SiNx capping layer can improve the grain growth and reduce the metal content in the induced poly‐Si film. It is found that the large grain size is over 20 μm and the carrier mobility values are over 80 cm2/V‐s.
Design of Precise Synchrone Mechanism in Multiaxial Laser Measurement
Authors: Zhou Rou-gang , Liu Guang-Dou , Zhou Yun-fei , Tu Xiao , Yan Si-jie
Published: June 2014

Precision measurement is the premise of precision motion control. When a worktable is operating, the synchronization of multiaxial sampling will directly affect the precision of table position conversion. In this paper, a precise synchrone mechanism for multiaxial laser measurement was proposed. Tests showed that the maximum synchronous sampling time error from 6 laser axes was 0.404 ns. When the table was moving at 1 m/s, the induced maximum displacement conversion error was 0.202 nm, which satisfied the strict nanometer-scale requirement imposed by ultra-precise motion control for position measurement.
Stabilization and Synchronization of Unified Chaotic System via Impulsive Control
Authors: Hu Cheng , Jiang Haijun
Published: June 2014

The impulsive control and synchronization of unified chaotic system are proposed. By applying impulsive control theory and introducing a piecewise continuous auxiliary function, some novel and useful conditions are provided to guarantee the globally asymptotical stabilization and synchronization of unified chaotic system under impulsive control. Compared with some previous results, our criteria are superior and less conservative. Finally, the effectiveness of theoretical results is shown through numerical simulations.
Facile Preparation of Carbon Microcapsules Containing Phase-Change Material with Enhanced Thermal Properties
Authors: Tahan Latibari Sara , Mehrali Mohammad , Mehrali Mehdi , Mahlia Teuku Meurah Indra , Metselaar Hendrik Simon Cornelis
Published: June 2014

This study describes the hydrothermal synthesis of a novel carbon/palmitic acid (PA) microencapsulated phase change material (MEPCM). The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images confirm that spherical capsules of uniform size were formed with a mean diameter of 6.42 μm. The melting and freezing temperature were found to be slightly lower than those of pure PA with little undercooling. The composite retained 75% of the latent heat of pure PA. Thermal stability of the MEPCM was found to be better than that of pure PA. The thermal conductivity of MEPCM was increased by as much as 41% at 30°C. Due to its good thermal properties and chemical and mechanical stability, the carbon/PA MEPCM displays a good potential for thermal energy storage systems.
Effects of Hyeonggaeyeongyo-Tang in Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Rhinitis Model
Authors: Hong Se Hyang , Kim Soon Re , Choi Han-Seok , Ku Jin Mo , Seo Hye Sook , Shin Yong Cheol , Ko Seong-Gyu
Published: June 2014

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an allergic inflammation of the nasal airways. The prevalence of AR is increasing worldwide. We investigated whether Hyeonggaeyeongyo-tang (HYT) is effective to suppress the progression of AR induced by ovalbumin (OVA). Male BALB/c mice were used for this study. Allergic rhinitis was induced by OVA. Treatment with HYT was assessed to study the effect of HYT on allergic rhinitis in mice. Histological analysis, immunohistochemistry, multiplex cytokine assay, blood analysis, and cell viability assay were performed to verify inhibitory effect of HYT on allergic rhinitis. HYT did not show any toxicity maintaining body weight. Food intake was steady without variation in mice. HYT reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells and mast cells into nasal cavity. HYT reduced the levels of cytokines and leukocytes in the blood. HYT decreased the splenocyte cell viability. Antihistamines and steroids are the most common medications used to treat allergic rhinitis. However, long-term use of drug generates resistance or side effects requiring the development of new drug. Our present study clearly demonstrates that HYT suppresses the progression of allergic rhinitis induced by OVA. This suggests that HYT might be a useful drug for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.
Numerical Investigation on a Prototype Centrifugal Pump Subjected to Fluctuating Rotational Speed
Authors: Zhang Yu-Liang , Xiao Jun-Jian , Zhao Yan-Jun , Ji Ying-Yu
Published: June 2014

The rotational speed of pumps often encounters fluctuation in engineering for some reasons. In this paper, in order to study the transient response characteristic of a prototype centrifugal pump subjected to fluctuating rotational speed, a closed‐loop pipe system including the pump is built to accomplish unsteady flow calculations in which the boundary conditions at the inlet and the outlet of the pump are not required to be set. The external performance results show that the head’s responsiveness to the fluctuating rotational speed is very good, while the flow rate’s responsiveness is slightly delayed. The variation tendencies of the static pressures at the inlet and the outlet of the pump are almost completely opposite, wherein the variation tendency of the static pressure at the outlet is identical with that of the rotational speed. The intensity of the turbulence energy in each impeller channel is relatively uniform in the transient flow calculations, while, in the quasi‐steady flow calculation, it becomes weaker in a channel closed to the volute tongue. The nondimensional flow rate and head coefficients are dependent on the rotational speed, and their variation tendencies are opposite to that of the fluctuating rotational speed as a whole.
Wavelength Tuning Free Transceiver Module in OLT Downstream Multicasting4λ × 10 Gb/s TWDM-PON System
Authors: Salleh M. S. , Supa’at A. S. M. , Idrus S. M. , Yaakob S. , Yusof Z. M.
Published: June 2014

We propose a new architecture of dynamic time-wavelength division multiplexing-passive optical network (TWDM-PON) system that employs integrated all-optical packet routing (AOPR) module using4λ×10 Gbps downstream signal to support 20 km fiber transmission. This module has been designed to support high speed L2 aggregation and routing in the physical layer PON system by using multicasting cross-gain modulation (XGM) to route packet from any PON port to multiple PON links. Meanwhile, the fixed wavelength optical line terminal (OLT) transmitter with wavelength tuning free features has been designed to integrate with the semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) and passive arrayed waveguide grating (AWG). By implementing hybrid multicasting and multiplexing, the system has been able to support a PON system with full flexibility function for managing highly efficient dynamic bandwidth allocation to support the4λ×10 Gb/s TWDM-PON system used to connect 4 different PON links using fixed wavelength OLT transceivers with maximum 38 dB link loss.
Investigation of Peak Pressure Index Parameters for People with Spinal Cord Injury Using Wheelchair Tilt-in-Space and Recline: Methodology and Preliminary Report
Authors: Lung Chi-Wen , Yang Tim D. , Crane Barbara A. , Elliott Jeannette , Dicianno Brad E. , Jan Yih-Kuen
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the sensel window’s location and size when calculating the peak pressure index (PPI) of pressure mapping with varying degrees of wheelchair tilt-in-space (tilt) and recline in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). Thirteen power wheelchair users were recruited into this study. Six combinations of wheelchair tilt (15°, 25°, and 35°) and recline (10° and 30°) were used by the participants in random order. Displacements of peak pressure and center of pressure were extracted from the left side of the mapping system. Normalized PPI was computed for three sensel window dimensions (3 sensels × 3 sensels, 5 × 5, and 7 × 7). At least 3.33 cm of Euclidean displacement of peak pressures was observed in the tilt and recline. For every tilt angle, peak pressure displacement was not significantly different between 10° and 30° recline, while center of pressure displacement was significantly different (P<.05). For each recline angle, peak pressure displacement was not significantly different between pairs of 15°, 25°, and 35° tilt, while center of pressure displacement was significantly different between 15° versus 35° and 25° versus 35°. Our study showed that peak pressure displacement occurs in response to wheelchair tilt and recline, suggesting that the selected sensel window locations used to calculate PPI should be adjusted during changes in wheelchair configuration.
Mannosylated Chitosan Nanoparticles for Delivery of Antisense Oligonucleotides for Macrophage Targeting
Authors: Shilakari Asthana Gyati , Asthana Abhay , Kohli Dharm Veer , Vyas Suresh Prasad
Published: June 2014

The therapeutic potential of antisense oligonucleotides (ASODN) is primarily dependent upon its safe and efficient delivery to specific cells overcoming degradation and maximizing cellular uptakein vivo. The present study focuses on designing mannosylated low molecular weight (LMW) chitosan nanoconstructs for safe ODNs delivery by macrophage targeting. Mannose groups were coupled with LMW chitosan and characterized spectroscopically. Mannosylated chitosan ODN nanoparticles (MCHODN NPs) were formulated by self-assembled method using variousN/Pratio (moles of amine groups of MCH to phosphate moieties of ODNs) and characterized for gel retardation assay, physicochemical characteristics, cytotoxicity and transfection efficiency, and antisense assay. Complete complexation of MCH/ODN was achieved at charge ratio of 1:1 and above. On increasing theN/Pratio of MCH/ODN, particle size of the NPs decreased whereas zeta potential (ZV) increased. MCHODN NPs displayed much higher transfection efficiency into Raw 264.7 cells (bears mannose receptors) than Hela cells and no significant toxicity was observed at all MCH concentrations. Antisense assay revealed that reduction in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced serum TNF-αis due to antisense activity of TJU-2755 ODN (sequence complementary to 3′-UTR of TNF-α). These results suggest that MCHODN NPs are acceptable choice to improve transfection efficiencyin vitroandin vivo.
A Lie Symmetry Classification of a Nonlinear Fin Equation in Cylindrical Coordinates
Authors: Ali Saeed M. , Bokhari Ashfaque H. , Zaman F. D.
Published: June 2014

The nonlinear fin equation in cylindrical coordinates is considered. Assuming a radial variable heat transfer coefficient and temperature dependent thermal conductivity, a complete classification of these two functions is obtained via Lie symmetry analysis. Using these Lie symmetries, we carry out reduction of the fin equation and whenever possible exact solutions are obtained.
Searching Less Perturbed Circular Orbits for a Spacecraft Travelling around Europa
Authors: Carvalho J. P. S. , Vilhena de Moraes R. , Prado A. F. B. A.
Published: June 2014

Space missions to visit the natural satellite of Jupiter, Europa, constitute an important topic in space activities today, because missions to this moon are under study now. Several considerations have to be made for these missions. The present paper searches for less perturbed circular orbits around Europa. This search is made based on the total effects of the perturbing forces over the time, evaluated by the integral of those forces over the time. This value depends on the dynamical model and on the orbit of the spacecraft. The perturbing forces considered are the third‐body perturbation that comes from Jupiter and the J2, J3, and C22 terms of the gravitational potential of Europa. Several numerical studies are performed and the results show the locations of the less perturbed orbits. Using those results, it is possible to find near‐circular frozen orbits with smaller amplitudes of variations of the orbital elements.
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome in a Patient with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Neuman Adi , Desai Bhavita , Glass Daniel , Diab Wassim
Published: June 2014

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome involves compression of the third part of the duodenum due to narrowing of the area between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). We will describe the case of a 34-year-old with cerebral palsy who presented with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss and was diagnosed with SMA syndrome via CT-imaging. With failure of conservative measures, our patient underwent a duodenojejunostomy after which improvement in her weight as well as relief of her abdominal symptoms was noted. Given the rarity of this syndrome, physicians need to keep a high index of suspicion in order to prevent the damaging consequences.
Cooperation and Game between Producers and Managers Based on the Linear Contract
Authors: Wan Xianglan
Published: June 2014

There is a cooperative game between the manager and the producer in the enterprise. In this paper, we firstly construct the cooperative game model based on the principal-agent theory. Under the conditions of Nash equilibrium and linear contract, the paper calculates the net income of the client, the total risk and welfare of the agents when the agents have the cooperation or not. The result shows that the correlation coefficient between their output has a direct relationship with the cooperation. Secondly, according to the power distribution theory another model is developed. We analyze the game process and critical state. Furthermore, we deduce the share proportion of the profit and the control size when they have the cooperation. Finally, we summarize all the research achievements, which are of universal significance for the practical cooperation game problems.
A Simple Procedure for Searching Pareto Optimal Front in Machining Process: Electric Discharge Machining
Authors: Aich Ushasta , Banerjee Simul
Published: June 2014

Optimum control parameter setting in complex and stochastic type processes is one of the most challenging problems to the process engineers. As such, effective model development and determination of optimal operating conditions of electric discharge machining process (EDM) are reasonably difficult. In this apper, an easy to handle optimization procedure, weight-varying multiobjective simulated annealing, is proposed and is applied to optimize two conflicting type response parameters in EDM—material removal rate (MRR) and average surface roughness (Ra) simultaneously. A solution set is generated. The Pareto optimal front thus developed is further modeled. An inverse solution procedure is devised so that near-optimum process parameter settings can be determined for specific need based requirements of process engineers. The results are validated.
Bilateral Chylhotorax after Falling from Height
Authors: Akpinar Vildan , Duran Fulya Yilmaz , Duman Elif , Özkalkanli Murat Yasar , Duran Özgür , Horsanali Burcu
Published: June 2014

Chylothorax is accumulation of chyle in the pleural cavity due to disruption of the thoracic duct. The causes can be classified as neoplastic, traumatic (iatrogenic or noniatrogenic), congenital, sporadic, spontaneous, and miscellaneous. A 22-year-old man with no feature in his history and family history was referred to emergency department with the case of falling from height. Abdominal computed tomogram (CT) revealed laceration of liver, grade 5 splenic laceration, fracture of the left acetabulum, and dislocation of the left hip. He was optimized for emergency splenectomy and close left hip reduction. On the 2nd day of the operation, bilateral chylotorax revealed. The treatment depends on its etiology, the amount of drainage, and the clinical picture. Treatment can be classified into 3 categories treatment of the underlying condition, conservative management (such as bed rest, nil by mouth or low fat medium chain triglycerides by mouth and total parenteral nutrition), and surgical management by ligation or clipping of the thoracic duct with open thoracotomy or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. The main purpose of surgical treatment is to stop the chylous leak.
A Complete Molecular Diagnostic Procedure for Applications in Surveillance and Subtyping of Avian Influenza Virus
Authors: Tseng Chun-Hsien , Tsai Hsiang-Jung , Chang Chung-Ming
Published: June 2014

Introduction. The following complete molecular diagnostic procedure we developed, based on real-time quantitative PCR and traditional PCR, is effective for avian influenza surveillance, virus subtyping, and viral genome sequencing.Method. This study provides a specific and sensitive step-by-step procedure for efficient avian influenza identification of 16 hemagglutinin and 9 neuraminidase avian influenza subtypes.Result and Conclusion. This diagnostic procedure may prove exceedingly useful for virological and ecological advancements in global avian influenza research.
Slope Stability Analysis Using Slice‐Wise Factor of Safety
Authors: Zhao Yu , Tong Zhi-Yi , Lü Qing
Published: June 2014

The concept of slice‐wise factor of safety is introduced to investigate the state of both the whole slope and each slice. The assumption that the interslice force ratio is the same between any two slices is made and the eccentric moment of slice weight is also taken into account. Then four variables equations are formulated based on the equilibrium of forces and moment and the assumption of interslice forces, and then the slice‐wise factor of safety along the slip surface can be obtained. The active and passive sections of the slope can be determined based on the distribution of factor of safety. The factor of safety of the whole slope is also defined as the ratio of the sum of antisliding force to the sum of sliding force on the slip surface. Two examples with different slip surface shapes are analysed to demonstrate the usage of the proposed method. The slice‐wise factor of safety enables us to determine the sliding mechanism and pattern of a slope. The reliability is verified by comparing the overall factor of safety with that calculated by conventional methods.
Cardiopulmonary Exercise Capacity and Preoperative Markers of Inflammation
Authors: Sultan Pervez , Edwards Mark R. , Gutierrez del Arroyo Ana , Cain David , Sneyd J. Robert , Struthers Richard , Minto Gary , Ackland Gareth L.
Published: June 2014

Explanatory mechanisms for the association between poor exercise capacity and infections following surgery are underexplored. We hypothesized that aerobic fitness—assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET)—would be associated with circulating inflammatory markers, as quantified by the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and monocyte subsets. The association between cardiopulmonary reserve and inflammation was tested by multivariable regression analysis with covariates including anaerobic threshold (AT) and malignancy. In a first cohort of 240 colorectal patients, AT was identified as the sole factor associated with higher NLR(P=0.03)and absolute and relative lymphopenia(P=0.01). Preoperative leukocyte subsets and monocyte CD14+expression (downregulated by endotoxin and indicative of chronic inflammation) were also assessed in two further cohorts of age-matched elective gastrointestinal and orthopaedic surgical patients. Monocyte CD14+expression was lower in gastrointestinal patients(n=43)compared to age-matched orthopaedic patients(n=31). The circulating CD14+CD16−monocyte subset was reduced in patients with low cardiopulmonary reserve. Poor exercise capacity in patients without a diagnosis of heart failure is independently associated with markers of inflammation. These observations suggest that preoperative inflammation associated with impaired cardiorespiratory performance may contribute to the pathophysiology of postoperative outcome.
Global Stability of a Computer Virus Propagation Model with Two Kinds of Generic Nonlinear Probabilities
Authors: Gan Chenquan , Yang Xiaofan , Zhu Qingyi
Published: June 2014

Vaccination is one of the most effective measures for suppressing the spread of computer virus, and the bilinear incidence rate assumption for the majority of previous models, which is a good first approximation of the general incidence rate, is in disagreement with the reality. In this paper, a new dynamical model with two kinds of generic nonlinear probabilities (incidence rate and vaccination probability) is established. An exhaustive mathematical analysis of this model shows that (a) there are two equilibria, virus-free equilibrium and viral equilibrium, and (b) the virus-free (or viral) equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable when the basic reproduction number is less (or greater) than unity. The analysis of the basic reproduction number is also included. Additionally, some numerical examples are given to illustrate the main results, from which it can be seen that the generic nonlinear vaccination is helpful to strengthen computer security.
Research on Architecture of the Prosthesis Shaping Equipment Control System
Authors: Sun Kai , Cao Yunan
Published: June 2014

In order to realize a high speed and high accuracy prosthesis shaping equipment (PSE) control system, this paper proposes a new software-hardware architecture of a five-axis high performance NC system. The software part of the proposed architecture follows the rules of the hierarchy and modularity. The inheritance, scalability, and stability are ensured on the whole system and local parts. According to the idea of modular design, the framework uses the client-server mode in the communication and scheduling level. With this way, the reliability of the module management is ensured. The hardware part of the proposed architecture consists of two main parts: the controller and I/O module. The controller is based on FPGA and uses PCI bus and IPC interface. The I/O module is based on ARM + CPLD and uses CAN bus to communicate with the controller. This paper also studies some key problems such as the driving signal producing mechanism. The results of prosthesis shaping equipment prototype show that the system which uses the proposed architecture can reach the positioning accuracy up to 0.02 mm and 3D typical surface cutting accuracy up to 0.02 mm, and this accuracy level already leads similar products in market.
SSFinder: High Throughput CRISPR-Cas Target Sites Prediction Tool
Authors: Upadhyay Santosh Kumar , Sharma Shailesh
Published: June 2014

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) system facilitates targeted genome editing in organisms. Despite high demand of this system, finding a reliable tool for the determination of specific target sites in large genomic data remained challenging. Here, we report SSFinder, a python script to perform high throughput detection of specific target sites in large nucleotide datasets. The SSFinder is a user-friendly tool, compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux operating systems, and freely available online.
Similarity Measure Learning in Closed-Form Solution for Image Classification
Authors: Chen Jing , Tang Yuan Yan , Chen C. L. Philip , Fang Bin , Shang Zhaowei , Lin Yuewei
Published: June 2014

Adopting a measure is essential in many multimedia applications. Recently, distance learning is becoming an active research problem. In fact, the distance is the natural measure for dissimilarity. Generally, a pairwise relationship between two objects in learning tasks includes two aspects: similarity and dissimilarity. The similarity measure provides different information for pairwise relationships. However, similarity learning has been paid less attention in learning problems. In this work, firstly, we propose a general framework for similarity measure learning (SML). Additionally, we define a generalized type of correlation as a similarity measure. By a set of parameters, generalized correlation provides flexibility for learning tasks. Based on this similarity measure, we present a specific algorithm under the SML framework, called correlation similarity measure learning (CSML), to learn a parameterized similarity measure over input space. A nonlinear extension version of CSML, kernel CSML, is also proposed. Particularly, we give a closed-form solution avoiding iterative search for a local optimal solution in the high-dimensional space as the previous work did. Finally, classification experiments have been performed on face databases and a handwritten digits database to demonstrate the efficiency and reliability of CSML and KCSML.
Correlation between the Bone Mineral Density and Stress on Femur around a Duetto SI Stem
Authors: Sakai Rina , Yamamoto Takeaki , Uchiyama Katsufumi , Uchida Kentaro , Nakao Masaki , Mabuchi Kiyoshi
Published: June 2014

In cementless stem fixation, BMD reduction around the stem is of concern because it may cause loosening. This BMD reduction is assumed to be caused by stem implantation-induced alteration of the physiological feedback system, which may cause stress shielding and result in loosening, but the causal relationship has not been clarified. In this study, using a Duetto SI stem, we investigated the correlation between the postoperative BMD around the stem and stress. In patients who underwent their first THA at the orthopedic department of our university, the BMD was measured using DEXA, and FEA was performed with an equivalent time course. Time-course changes in the BMD, von Mises stress, and triaxial stress in Gruen zones 1 through 7 were calculated from those measured at 2 weeks and 5 months after surgery. The BMD and von Mises stress showed a bidirectional correlation when Gruen’s classification was plotted on the horizontal axis. An increase in stress loaded on bone was assumed to be a factor increasing the BMD. The Duetto SI stem was fixed on the distal side, suggesting its stable fixation. BMD measurement and FEA were useful for quantification of the bone dynamics around the stem from an early phase.
Homozygous Inactivating Mutation inNANOS3in Two Sisters with Primary Ovarian Insufficiency
Authors: Santos Mariza G. , Machado Aline Z. , Martins Conceição N. , Domenice Sorahia , Costa Elaine M. F. , Nishi Mirian Y. , Ferraz-de-Souza Bruno , Jorge Soraia A. C. , Pereira Carlos A. , Soardi Fernanda C. , de Mello Maricilda P. , Maciel-Guerra Andrea T. , Guerra-Junior Gil , Mendonca Berenice B.
Published: June 2014

Despite the increasing understanding of female reproduction, the molecular diagnosis of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is seldom obtained. The RNA-binding protein NANOS3 poses as an interesting candidate gene for POI since members of the Nanos family have an evolutionarily conserved function in germ cell development and maintenance by repressing apoptosis. We performed mutational analysis ofNANOS3in a cohort of 85 Brazilian women with familial or isolated POI, presenting with primary or secondary amenorrhea, and in ethnically-matched control women. A homozygous p.Glu120Lys mutation inNANOS3was identified in two sisters with primary amenorrhea. The substituted amino acid is located within the second C2HC motif in the conserved zinc finger domain of NANOS3 andin silicomolecular modelling suggests destabilization of protein-RNA interaction.In vitroanalyses of apoptosis through flow cytometry and confocal microscopy show that NANOS3 capacity to prevent apoptosis was impaired by this mutation. The identification of an inactivating missense mutation inNANOS3suggests a mechanism for POI involving increased primordial germ cells (PGCs) apoptosis during embryonic cell migration and highlights the importance of NANOS proteins in human ovarian biology.
A Symbolic Computation Approach to Parameterizing Controller for Polynomial Hamiltonian Systems
Authors: Cao Zhong , Hou Xiaorong
Published: June 2014

This paper considers controller parameterization method of H∞ control for polynomial Hamiltonian systems (PHSs), which involves internal stability and external disturbance attenuation. The aims of this paper are to design a controller with parameters to insure that the systems are H∞ stable and propose an algorithm for solving parameters of the controller with symbolic computation. The proposed parameterization method avoids solving Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Isaacs equations, and thus the obtained controllers with parameters are relatively simple in form and easy in operation. Simulation with a numerical example shows that the controller is effective as it can optimize H∞ control by adjusting parameters. All these results are expected to be of use in the study of H∞ control for nonlinear systems with perturbations.