bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Codes from multipartite graphs and minimal permutation decoding sets
Authors: Seneviratne P.
Published: October 2015

Permutation decoding method developed by MacWilliams and described in [Permutation decoding of systematic codes, Bell Syst. Tech. J. 43 (1964) 485–505] is a decoding technique that uses a subset of the automorphism group of the code called a PD-set. The complexity of the permutation decoding algorithm depends on the size of the PD-set and finding a minimal PD-set for an error correcting code is a hard problem. In this paper we examine binary codes from the complete-multipartite graph [Formula: see text] and find PD-sets for all values of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Further we show that these PD-sets are minimal when [Formula: see text] is odd and [Formula: see text].
Pragmatic model transformations for refactoring in Scilab/Xcos
Authors: Durak Umut
Published: October 2015

Model-Based Development has become an industry wide standard paradigm. As an open source alternative, Scilab/Xcos is being widely employed as a hybrid dynamic systems modeling tool. With the increasing efficiency in implementation using graphical model development and code generation, the modeling and simulation community is struggling with assuring quality as well as maintainability and extendibility. Refactoring is defined as an evolutionary modernization activity where, most of the time, the structure of the artifact is changed to alter its quality characteristics, while keeping its behavior unchanged. It has been widely established as a technique for textual programming languages to improve the code structure and quality. While refactoring is also regarded as one of the key practices of model engineering, the methodologies and approaches for model refactoring are still under development. Architecture-Driven Modernization (ADM) has been introduced by the software engineering community as a model-based approach to software modernization, in which the implicit information that lies in software artifacts is extracted to models and model transformations are applied for modernization tasks. Regarding refactoring as a low level modernization task, the practices from ADM are adaptable. Accordingly, this paper proposes a model-based approach for model refactoring in order to come up with more efficient and effective model refactoring methodology that is accessible and extendable by modelers. Like other graphical modeling tools, Scilab/Xcos also possesses a formalized model specification conforming to its implicit metamodel. Rather than proposing another metamodel for knowledge extraction, this pragmatic approach proposes to conduct in place model-to-model transformations for refactoring employing the Scilab/Xcos model specification. To construct a structured model-based approach, the implicit Scilab/Xcos metamodel is explicitly presented utilizing ECORE as a meta-metamodel. Then a practical model transformation approach is established based on Scilab scripting. A Scilab toolset is provided to the modeler for in-place model-to-model transformations. Using a sample case study, it is demonstrated that proposed model transformation functions in Scilab provide a valuable refactoring tool.
Theoretical Limit on COP of a Heat Pump from a Sequential System
Authors: Park Hansaem , Kim Min Soo
Published: October 2015

The theoretical limit on Coefficient of performance (COP), which is maximum and ideal one, is investigated with a sequential Carnot heat pump where multiple Carnot heat pumps are interconnected in parallel. Using fundamental relations from thermodynamics and heat transfer, the performance of a sequential Carnot heat pump is obtained analytically. The effect of major parameters of the system, such as the number of individual heat pumps in a sequential system, the number of transfer unit of heat exchangers, and temperatures of heat sources, on the performance is researched. Also, expressions for ideal COP derived by limit calculation when the system has an infinite number of Carnot heat pumps or infinite number of transfer unit are suggested. For example, the most ideal COP is the ratio of the final heat source temperature to the difference between the initial and final heat source temperature. To support the result of theoretical analysis, a simple simulation of sequential Carnot heat pumps is carried out with thermodynamic properties of real refrigerants. The result of a simulation quite accords with that of theoretical analysis.
SCIARA: cellular automata lava flow modelling and applications in hazard prediction and mitigation
Authors: Rongo R. , Lupiano V. , Spataro W. , D'ambrosio D. , Iovine G. , Crisci G. M.
Published: October 2015

The use of thematic volcanic hazard maps is essential for policy managers and administrators in land use planning and to determine the best form of action during emergencies. In particular, hazard maps are a key tool in emergency management and are used to describe the threat expected at a certain location in the event of future eruptions. We applied the latest version of the SCIARA lava flow cellular automata model using parallel computing through general purpose graphics processing units technology to derive lava flow hazard maps for Mt Etna, Sicily. The methodology relies on an accurate analysis of the past behaviour of the volcano and is appropriate for land use planning and civil defence applications.
A Horizontally Polarized Omnidirectional Antenna Using Stacked Curve Dipoles for DTV Reception
Authors: Phongcharoenpanich Chuwong , Polkaew Weerayuth , Luadang Bancha , Akkaraekthalin Prayoot
Published: October 2015

This paper presents an omnidirectional antenna using stacked curve dipoles radiating horizontal polarization for digital television (DTV) reception. The proposed antenna consists of stacked curve dipoles designed on brass sheet. The parametric study is carried out for various dimensions of curve dipoles to improve the impedance bandwidth. The results show good impedance matching forS11of less than −10 dB along the frequency range from 404 MHz to 871 MHz. The antenna gain is between −10 dBi and 0.67 dBi along the frequency range from 470 to 862 MHz.
Personal Verification/Identification via Analysis of the Peripheral ECG Leads: Influence of the Personal Health Status on the Accuracy
Authors: Jekova Irena , Bortolan Giovanni
Published: October 2015

Traditional means for identity validation (PIN codes, passwords), and physiological and behavioral biometric characteristics (fingerprint, iris, and speech) are susceptible to hacker attacks and/or falsification. This paper presents a method for person verification/identification based on correlation of present-to-previous limb ECG leads: I (rI), II (rII), calculated from them first principal ECG component (rPCA), linear and nonlinear combinations betweenrI,rII, andrPCA. For the verification task, the one-to-one scenario is applied and threshold values forrI,rII, andrPCAand their combinations are derived. The identification task supposes one-to-many scenario and the tested subject is identified according to the maximal correlation with a previously recorded ECG in a database. The population based ECG-ILSA database of 540 patients (147 healthy subjects, 175 patients with cardiac diseases, and 218 with hypertension) has been considered. In addition a common reference PTB dataset (14 healthy individuals) with short time interval between the two acquisitions has been taken into account. The results on ECG-ILSA database were satisfactory with healthy people, and there was not a significant decrease in nonhealthy patients, demonstrating the robustness of the proposed method. With PTB database, the method provides an identification accuracy of 92.9% and a verification sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 89.9%.
Regression Cloud Models and Their Applications in Energy Consumption of Data Center
Authors: Zhou Yanshuang , Li Na , Li Hong , Zhang Yongqiang
Published: October 2015

As cloud data center consumes more and more energy, both researchers and engineers aim to minimize energy consumption while keeping its services available. A good energy model can reflect the relationships between running tasks and the energy consumed by hardware and can be further used to schedule tasks for saving energy. In this paper, we analyzed linear and nonlinear regression energy model based on performance counters and system utilization and proposed a support vector regression energy model. For performance counters, we gave a general linear regression framework and compared three linear regression models. For system utilization, we compared our support vector regression model with linear regression and three nonlinear regression models. The experiments show that linear regression model is good enough to model performance counters, nonlinear regression is better than linear regression model for modeling system utilization, and support vector regression model is better than polynomial and exponential regression models.
Grafting Carbon Nanotubes on Glass Fiber by Dip Coating Technique to Enhance Tensile and Interfacial Shear Strength
Authors: Dastorian Jamnani Bahador , Hosseini Soraya , Rahmanian Saeed , Abdul Rashid Suraya , Mustapha Sa′ari b. , Keshan Balavandy Sepideh
Published: October 2015

The effects of noncovalent bonding and mechanical interlocking of carbon nanotubes (CNT) coating on tensile and interfacial strength of glass fiber were investigated. CNT were coated over glass fiber by a simple dip coating method. Acid treated CNT were suspended in isopropanol solution containing Nafion as binding agent. To achieve uniform distribution of CNT over the glass fiber, an optimized dispersion process was developed by two parameters: CNT concentration and soaking time. CNT concentration was varied from 0.4 to 2 mg/mL and soaking time was varied from 1 to 180 min. The provided micrographs demonstrated appropriate coating of CNT on glass fiber by use of CNT‐Nafion mixture. The effects of CNT concentration and soaking time on coating layer were studied by performing single fiber tensile test and pull‐out test. The obtained results showed that the optimum CNT concentration and soaking time were 1 mg/mL and 60 min, respectively, which led to significant improvement of tensile strength and interfacial shear stress. It was found that, at other concentrations and soaking times, CNT agglomeration or acutely curly tubes appeared over the fiber surface which caused a reduction of nanotubes interaction on the glass fiber.
Subjective Voice Assessment after Endoscopic Surgery for an Obstructive Reinke Edema Using Voice Handicap Index
Authors: Hallak Bassel , Olivier Frédéric , Teiga Pedro S. , Bouayed Salim , von Wihl Sonia , Sandu Kishore
Published: October 2015

Voice disorders exert a dramatic influence on patients’ quality of life (QOL). The physical, functional, and emotional impact can be accurately assessed using the conventional questionnaire of “voice handicap index” (VHI) or its shorter version, the VHI-10. We evaluated the VHI scores of patients suffering from obstructive Reinke’s edema, a benign laryngeal disorder, before and after endoscopic treatment. Comparison of pre- and postoperative VHI scores showed the treatment efficacy. The scores achieved were similar to asymptomatic individuals (control group), thus improving their quality of life. Furthermore, both VHI and VHI-10 tests yielded similar scores. We suggest routine systematic incorporation of the VHI-10 test for pre- and postoperative routine evaluation of patients with Reinke’s edema. The results are faster and reliable.
Posttraumatic Intradiploic Leptomeningeal Cyst: A Rare Complication of Head Trauma
Authors: Bava Jernailsingh , Bansal Ashank , Patil Santosh Bhaugaunda , Kale Kiran Ashok , Joshi Anagha Rajiv
Published: October 2015

Posttraumatic intradiploic leptomeningeal cyst is an exceedingly uncommon complication of skull fracture in childhood with only about twenty-one cases described in literature till now. We report 2 such cases of intradiploic leptomeningeal cyst of occipital bone in two 17- and 21-year-old males presenting with headache with history of occipital bone fracture in childhood and briefly discuss its pathogenesis and differential diagnosis.
Life History of the Tamarind Weevil, Sitophilus linearis (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), on Tamarind Seed
Authors: Ojo James Adebayo , Omoloye Adebayo Amos
Published: October 2015

The tamarind weevil, Sitophilus linearis Herbst (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), is an important pest of tamarind and other Caesalpinioideae. Investigating its life history is important in the implementation of management strategy. Its life history was monitored daily to understand its developmental biology on tamarind seed following standard procedures under laboratory conditions of 24–30°C temperature, 60–70% relative humidity, and 12L : 12D photoperiod. The egg incubation period lasted 3.17 ± 0.07 days. A mated female of S. linearis laid an average of 165 ± 5.78 eggs during an oviposition period of 86.8 ± 2.47 days. There were four larval instars, with a total larval developmental period of 16 days. The pupal period lasted 8 days, and adult lived 108.5 ± 3.61 days. The overall growth ratio for the four instars was 1.33. There was a regular relationship and significant correlation (r=0.94) between the stages of larval development and head capsule width.
Electronic and Optical Properties of Small Hydrogenated Silicon Quantum Dots Using Time‐Dependent Density Functional Theory
Authors: Anas Muhammad Mus-’ab , Gopir Geri
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a systematic study of the absorption spectrum of various sizes of small hydrogenated silicon quantum dots of quasi‐spherical symmetry using the time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT). In this study, real‐time and real‐space implementation of TDDFT involving full propagation of the time‐dependent Kohn‐Sham equations were used. The experimental results for SiH4 and Si5H12 showed good agreement with other earlier calculations and experimental data. Then these calculations were extended to study larger hydrogenated silicon quantum dots with diameter up to 1.6 nm. It was found that, for small quantum dots, the absorption spectrum is atomic‐like while, for relatively larger (1.6 nm) structure, it shows bulk‐like behavior with continuous plateau with noticeable peak. This paper also studied the absorption coefficient of silicon quantum dots as a function of their size. Precisely, the dependence of dot size on the absorption threshold is elucidated. It was found that the silicon quantum dots exhibit direct transition of electron from HOMO to LUMO states; hence this theoretical contribution can be very valuable in discerning the microscopic processes for the future realization of optoelectronic devices.
LKM: A LDA-BasedK-Means Clustering Algorithm for Data Analysis of Intrusion Detection in Mobile Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Yuhua , Wang Kun , Gao Min , Ouyang Zhiyou , Chen Siguang
Published: October 2015

Mobile sensor networks (MSNs), consisting of mobile nodes, are sensitive to network attacks. Intrusion detection system (IDS) is a kind of active network security technology to protect network from attacks. In the data gathering phase of IDS, due to the high-dimension data collected in multidimension space, great pressure has been put on the subsequent data analysis and response phase. Therefore, traditional methods for intrusion detection can no longer be applicable in MSNs. To improve the performance of data analysis, we applyK-means algorithm to high-dimension data clustering analysis. Thus, an improvedK-means clustering algorithm based on linear discriminant analysis (LDA) is proposed, called LKM algorithm. In this algorithm, we firstly apply the dimension reduction of LDA to divide the high-dimension data set into 2-dimension data set; then we useK-means algorithm for clustering analysis of the dimension-reduced data. Simulation results show that LKM algorithm shortens the sample feature extraction time and improves the accuracy ofK-means clustering algorithm, both of which prove that LKM algorithm enhances the performance of high-dimension data analysis and the abnormal detection rate of IDS in MSNs.
Evaluating the Cassandra NoSQL Database Approach for Genomic Data Persistency
Authors: Aniceto Rodrigo , Xavier Rene , Guimarães Valeria , Hondo Fernanda , Holanda Maristela , Walter Maria Emilia , Lifschitz Sérgio
Published: October 2015

Rapid advances in high-throughput sequencing techniques have created interesting computational challenges in bioinformatics. One of them refers to management of massive amounts of data generated by automatic sequencers. We need to deal with the persistency of genomic data, particularly storing and analyzing these large-scale processed data. To find an alternative to the frequently considered relational database model becomes a compelling task. Other data models may be more effective when dealing with a very large amount of nonconventional data, especially for writing and retrieving operations. In this paper, we discuss the Cassandra NoSQL database approach for storing genomic data. We perform an analysis of persistency and I/O operations with real data, using the Cassandra database system. We also compare the results obtained with a classical relational database system and another NoSQL database approach, MongoDB.
High Efficiency Generalized Parallel Counters for Look-Up Table Based FPGAs
Authors: Khurshid Burhan , Mir Roohie Naaz
Published: October 2015

Generalized parallel counters (GPCs) are used in constructing high speed compressor trees. Prior work has focused on utilizing the fast carry chain and mapping the logic onto Look-Up Tables (LUTs). This mapping is not optimal in the sense that the LUT fabric is not fully utilized. This results in low efficiency GPCs. In this work, we present a heuristic that efficiently maps the GPC logic onto the LUT fabric. We have used our heuristic on various GPCs and have achieved an improvement in efficiency ranging from 33% to 100% in most of the cases. Experimental results using Xilinx 5th-, 6th-, and 7th-generation FPGAs and Stratix IV and V devices from Altera show a considerable reduction in resources utilization and dynamic power dissipation, for almost the same critical path delay. We have also implemented GPC-based FIR filters on 7th-generation Xilinx FPGAs using our proposed heuristic and compared their performance against conventional implementations. Implementations based on our heuristic show improved performance. Comparisons are also made against filters based on integrated DSP blocks and inherent IP cores from Xilinx. The results show that the proposed heuristic provides performance that is comparable to the structures based on these specialized resources.
The Surface EMG Characteristics between Erector Spinae and Vastus Lateralis during Bending Forward and Squatting Down Tasks
Authors: Xiao Jinzhuang , Gao Junmin , Wang Hongrui , Liu Kun , Yang Xincai
Published: October 2015

Bending forward and squatting down are two common physical tasks in everyday life and at work. This study determined the sEMG characteristics between erector spinae and vastus lateralis during bending forward and squatting down tasks by analyzing the regularity of variation in sEMG frequency domain index-median frequency (MNF) in healthy subjects. The results indicate that sEMG activities in erector spinae are significantly higher than those in the right vastus lateralis during bending forward task. Instead, in squatting down task, sEMG activities in the right vastus lateralis are significantly greater than those in erector spinae. It also shows that the fatigue degree of low back caused by trunk bending is much deeper than that by squatting down. The ratio scope of one-order fitting values of MNF between erector spinae and vastus lateralis ranges from 0.87 to 1.72 among 80% of subjects during bending forward task and ranges from 0.31 to 1.11 during squatting down task. This study provides certain theoretical basis for using the strength of low back in a proper way to avoid getting it hurt in daily physical activities.
MIDAS: A Data Aggregation Scheduling Scheme for Variable Aggregation Rate WSNs
Authors: Long Jun , He An , Zhang Jinhuan , Zhang Hao
Published: October 2015

Data aggregation scheduling for variable aggregation rate model has wide application and should take network lifetime and energy efficiency into consideration. In this paper, the time-slot scheduling problem for the variable aggregation rate model is presented, and a time-slot scheduling integrating consideration of minimizing the energy consumption named Makeup Integer based Data Aggregation Scheduling (MIDAS) is proposed. The proposed MIDAS scheme integrates two core phases, namely, data aggregation set construction and aggregation set based scheduling algorithm. The key idea of MIDAS is to minimize the number of receiving and sending data packets in hotspot and to reduce the number of aggregated packets in network for better scheduling performance in network lifetime. Furthermore, it is also essential to increase energy utilization efficiency of the nodes in the middle layer by exploiting the remaining energy of peripheral nodes. A series of experiments are simulated to demonstrate that the proposed scheme has significantly increased the network lifetime and the energy utilization efficiency under the different aggregation rates and different network scales. Comparing with the SDAS, the lifetime can be increased by as much as 25%. The energy utilization efficiency can be improved by as much as 30%.
Treatment with Aortic Stent Graft Placement for Stanford B-Type Aortic Dissection in a Patient with an Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery
Authors: Kawatani Yohei , Hayashi Yujiro , Ito Yujiro , Kurobe Hirotsugu , Nakamura Yoshitsugu , Suda Yuji , Hori Takaki
Published: October 2015

A 71-year-old man visited our hospital with the chief complaint of back pain and was diagnosed with acute aortic dissection (Debakey type III, Stanford type B). He was found to have a variant branching pattern in which the right subclavian artery was the fourth branch of the aorta. We performed conservative management for uncomplicated Stanford type B aortic dissection, and the patient was discharged. An ulcer-like projection (ULP) was discovered during outpatient follow-up. Complicated type B aortic dissection was suspected, and we performed thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). The aim of operative treatment was ULP closure; thus we placed two stent grafts in the descending aorta from the distal portion of the right subclavian artery. The patient was released without complications on postoperative day 5. Deliberate sizing and examination of placement location were necessary when placing the stent graft, but operative techniques allowed the procedure to be safely completed.
Small-Signal Modeling of Marine Electromagnetic Detection Transmitter Controlled-Source Circuit
Authors: Tao Haijun , Zhang Yiming , Ren Xiguo
Published: October 2015

Marine electromagnetic transmitter transmits electromagnetic waves with large power frequency conversion to the seabed to obtain the submarine structure and mineral resources. However, the current transmitter presents several problems, such as low efficiency, serious heat, and poor adaptability to the load. Soft-switching controlled-source circuit is used to reduce circuit losses. The mathematical model of controlled-source circuit should be established to realize a closed-loop control for increasing the output transient performance of electromagnetic waves. Given that the soft-switching controlled-source circuit has more status and that direct modeling is difficult, small-signal model of soft-switching controlled-source circuit is established based on that of hard-switching controlled-source circuit by analyzing the effect of output filter inductor current transformer leakage inductance and input voltage soft-switching controlled circuit on change in the duty cycle. Finally, experiments verify the accuracy and validity of the model.
Designing Constrained Trajectory Based on Maximizing Energy Reduction in Large-Scale Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Xu Jia , Wang Chuan Ping , Dai Hua , Zhang Da Qiang , Yu Jing Jie
Published: October 2015

TheMobile Sinkbased data collection in wireless sensor network can reduce energy consumption efficiently and has been a new data collection paradigm. In this paper, we focus on exploring polynomial algorithm to compute the constrained trajectory of theMobile Sinkfor data collection. We first present a universal system model for designing constrained trajectory in large-scale wireless sensor networks and formulate the problem as theMaximizing Energy Reduction for Constrained Trajectory(MERC) problem. We show that the MERC problem is NP-hard and design an approximation algorithm (CTMER), which follows the greedy approach to design the movement trajectory of theMobile Sinkby maximizing theeffective average energy reduction. Through both rigid theoretical analysis and extensive simulations, we demonstrate that our algorithm achieves high computation efficiency and is superior to otherMobile Sinkbased data collection methods in aspects of energy consumption and network lifetime.
Gender Differences in Beliefs about Infant-Directed Speech: The Role of Family Dynamics
Authors: Kennison Shelia M. , Byrd-Craven Jennifer
Published: October 2015

The research investigated the relationship between family dynamics and the beliefs about the benefits of talking to infants. Prior research has shown that language development is enhanced by verbal interaction with others. We tested two hypotheses: (a) men may view talking to infants as less beneficial than women and (b) one’s relationships with parents would be related to the extent to which young adults view talking to infants as beneficial. In a study with 301 undergraduates (181 women, 120 men), we confirmed both hypotheses, showing that (a) men were less likely than women to view talking to infants as beneficial and (b) for both men and women, the more negative their relationship with their mother, the less likely they were to view talking to infants as beneficial. Implications for infant care are discussed.
Imaging Method Based on Time Reversal Channel Compensation
Authors: Li Bing , Hu Bin-Jie
Published: October 2015

The conventional time reversal imaging (TRI) method builds imaging function by using the maximal value of signal amplitude. In this circumstance, some remote targets are missed (near-far problem) or low resolution is obtained in lossy and/or dispersive media, and too many transceivers are employed to locate targets, which increases the complexity and cost of system. To solve these problems, a novel TRI algorithm is presented in this paper. In order to achieve a high resolution, the signal amplitude corresponding to focal time observed at target position is used to reconstruct the target image. For disposing near-far problem and suppressing spurious images, combining with cross-correlation property and amplitude compensation, channel compensation function (CCF) is introduced. Moreover, the complexity and cost of system are reduced by employing only five transceivers to detect four targets whose number is close to that of transceivers. For the sake of demonstrating the practicability of the proposed analytical framework, the numerical experiments are actualized in both nondispersive-lossless (NDL) media and dispersive-conductive (DPC) media. Results show that the performance of the proposed method is superior to that of conventional TRI algorithm even under few echo signals.
Backup Routing Algorithm Based on Delay Constraint in Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks
Authors: Wu Zhenguo , Liu Xiaozhu , Zhang Yan , Samani Hooman , Zhu Rongbo
Published: October 2015

In cognitive radio sensor networks (CRSNs), the frequency used by second users will be terminated unexpectedly as the preemption of primary user or reinitialized route discovery process in data transmission process, which will lead to unreliable communication and degrade the network performance greatly. In this paper, an efficient backup routing algorithm is proposed for reliable routing based on the uncorrelated degree and delay constraint in CRSNs. Numerical and simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively overcome the intermittent connection problem and decrease delay greatly.
Study of the Control of Geometric Pattern Using Digital Algorithm (with Focus on Analysis and Application of the Islamic Star Pattern)
Authors: Lee Jin-Young , Kim Sung-Wook , Jeon You-Chang
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a study to analyze and modify the Islamic star pattern using digital algorithm, introducing a method to efficiently modify and control classical geometric patterns through experiments and applications of computer algorithms. This will help to overcome the gap between the closeness of classical geometric patterns and the influx of design by digital technology and to lay out a foundation for efficiency and flexibility in developing future designs and material fabrication by promoting better understanding of the various methods for controlling geometric patterns.
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Gene Expression Remains Broadly Altered Years after Successful Interferon-Based Hepatitis C Virus Treatment
Authors: Waldron Paul Ravi , Holodniy Mark
Published: October 2015

Background. Inflammatory gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) is altered in chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection. Duration of changes after pegylated interferon- (peg-IFN-) based HCV treatment is unclear.Methods. PBMC mRNA expression of 184 inflammatory response genes was analyzed (nCounter GX Human Inflammation Kit, Nanostring) from peg-IFN treatment nonresponders (NR,n=18), sustained virologic responders (SVR,n=22), and spontaneous clearers (SC,n=15). Logistic regression was used for comparison.Results. Median time from last treatment was 2 and 2.7 years in SVR and NR, respectively (p= NS). Mean mRNA counts were significantly different for 42 and 29 genes comparing SVR to SC patients and NR to SC, respectively, and no genes comparing SVR to NR. Differential expression of 24 genes was significantly different in both SVR and NR groups compared to SC. Among these 24 acute and chronic inflammatory cascade genes, significant upregulation was noted for proinflammatory transcription regulatorsFos,CEBPB, andMyD88in SVR and NR compared to SC.HDAC4was significantly downregulated in SVR and NR compared to the SC group.Conclusions. PBMC inflammatory gene expression patterns in SVR resemble NR more than SC patients. A generalized inflammatory response persists in PBMCs long after successful peg-IFN treatment for HCV infection.
A Design of Dual Broadband Antenna in Mobile Communication System
Authors: Zhou Jianming
Published: October 2015

A design of dual broadband antenna is proposed in this paper; it consists of one low frequency unit and two high frequency units. The low frequency unit consists of a pair of printing vibrators; the high frequency unit consists of a pair of printing oscillators, which is bent at its end, and high frequency unit and low frequency unit are set on the same dielectric substrate. Through adding a parasitic unit on antenna, it can enhance frequency bandwidth without affecting the bandwidth. In the high frequency unit, it adopts gap-coupled microstrip line feeding method in order to get enough bandwidth. Through the test of dual broadband antenna, it can be found that, in the low frequency part, the antenna covers 20% bandwidth of the total bandwidth, and it covers the frequency from 800 MHz to 980 MHz. In the high frequency, the antenna covers 60% of total bandwidth and its frequency is from 1540 MHz to 2860 MHz, so the designed antenna can satisfy the frequency requirements of 2G/3G/LTE (4G) communication system.
The Protective Effect of INH2BP, a Novel PARP Inhibitor 5-Iodo-6-Amino-1,2-Benzopyrone, Against Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Apoptosis Through ERK and p38 MAPK in H9c2 Cells
Authors: Back Oun-Cheol , Jang Hyung-Seok , Lee Ji-Sook , Kim Dae-Eun , Lee Young , Park Eun-Seok , Kim In Sik
Published: October 2015

INH2BP (5-iodo-6-amino-1,2-benzopyrone), a poly-ADP ribose polymerase inhibitor, has been shown to possess anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-inflammation properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of INH2BP against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells. While the treatment of H9c2 cardiomyoblasts cells with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) caused a loss of cell viability and an increase in the number of apoptotic cells, INH2BP significantly protected the cells against H2O2-induced cell death without any cytotoxicity. Our data also shows that INH2BP significantly scavenged intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and markedly enhanced the expression of antioxidant enzymes such as Mn-SOD (superoxide) and Cu/Zn-SOD, and heme oxygenase-1, which was accompanied by the concomitant activation of extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation in H9c2 cells. The effects of INH2BP on ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK phosphorylation were abrogated by PD98059, an ERK1/2 inhibitor, and SB203580, a p38 inhibitor. In addition, inhibition of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK by these inhibitors significantly attenuated INH2BP-mediated H9c2 viability as well as cleaved caspases-3, Bax, and Bcl-2 activation. Taken together, these results demonstrate that INH2BP prevents H2O2-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cells by reducing the production of intracellular ROS, regulating apoptotic-related proteins, and the activation of the ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK.
Ionized Magnesium and Regional Citrate Anticoagulation for Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Zakharchenko Mychajlo , Leden Pavel , Rulíšek Jan , Los Ferdinand , Brodska Helena , Balik Martin
Published: October 2015

Background: The regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) induces changes in total (Catot) and ionized (Ca2+) calcium. As of now, we do not have much information about parallel changes of total (Mgtot) and ionized (Mg2+) magnesium. Methods: The authors compared changes of Mg2+ and Mgtot with changes of Ca2+ and Catot in 32 critically ill patients on 4% trisodium citrate (4% TSC) with calcium-free fluids. Results: The median continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration balance of Mgtot was -0.91 (-1.18 to -0.53) mmol/h compared to the median balance of Catot 0.86 (0.08-1.55) mmol/h. Postfilter Mg2+ decreased by 68.3% (70.8-65.6) in parallel (r = 0.41, p = 0.03) to decrease of postfilter Ca2+ (by 70.2% (73.0-66.1)) and was significantly related to the postfilter Ca2+ (r = 0.50, p < 0.001). The decrease of prefilter to postfilter Ca2+ correlated to a dosage of 4% TSC per blood flow (r = 0.37, p = 0.04). Conclusions: The loss of Mgtot during RCA is not covered by magnesium concentration in ordinary dialysis/substitution fluid and may lead to the depletion of total body magnesium. The postfilter Mg2+ is significantly related to the postfilter Ca2+. Video Journal Club “Cappuccino with Claudio Ronco” at http://www.karger.com/?doi = 440972.
Predictive Value of Atrial Electromechanical Delay on Long-Term Cardiovascular Outcomes in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Turkmen Kultigin , Demirtas Levent , Topal Ergun , Gaipov Abduzhappar , Kocyigit Ismail , Orscelik Ozcan , Guney Ibrahim , Kılıc Selim , Yilmaz Mahmut Ilker
Published: October 2015

Background: Atrial electromechanical delay (AEMD) times were considered independent predictors of cardiovascular morbidity among the general population. We aimed at evaluating AEMD times and other risk factors associated with 2-year combined cardiovascular (CV) events in HD patients. Material and Methods: Sixty hemodialysis (HD) and 44 healthy individuals were enrolled in this prospective study. Echocardiography was performed before the mid-week dialysis session for HD patients. Data were expressed as mean ± SD. Spearman test was used to assess linear associations. Survival was examined with the Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to determine the predictors of combined CV events in this cohort. Results: At the beginning of the study, left intra-atrial-AEMD times were significantly longer in HD patients compared to the left intra-atrial-AEMD times in healthy individuals. After 24 months, 41 patients were still on HD treatment and 19 (31.6%) had died. Serum triglyceride, total cholesterol and albumin were found to be higher and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, left intra-atrial EMD time (LIAT) and interatrial EMD times were found to be lower in survived HD patients. With the cut-off median values of 3.5 g/dl for albumin, 0.87 mg/dl for CRP, 157 mg/dl for total cholesterol and 151 mg/dl for triglyceride, the Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated significant differences in terms of all-cause mortality. We also demonstrated the Kaplan-Meier survival curves of HD patients according to tertile values of LIAT. Cox regression analysis revealed that increased CRP and higher LIAT were found to be independent predictors of combined CV events. Conclusions: Increased LIAT and inflammation were found to be closely associated with 2 years combined CV events and all-cause mortality in HD patients.
Carnoya cepacapitatus n. sp. and C. mexicana n. sp. (Ransomnematoidea: Carnoyidae) from Anadenobolus putealis Loomis, 1969 (Diplopoda: Rhinocricidae) from Mexico
Authors: Mejia-Madrid Hugo H.
Published: October 2015

Carnoya cepacapitatusn. sp. andC. mexicanan. sp. from the intestine ofAnadenobolusputealisfrom Mexico are described herein. Specific characters like the number of collars and spines set these species apart from those previously described from the Caribbean and South American regions. Males ofC. cepacapitatusn. sp. can be differentiated from those of all other described species ofCarnoyafrom the Americas by the presence of a broader cephalic annule two annules posterior to the lip region, eight transverse rows of spines linearly arranged on cervical region, finely striated regions at the midventral body section and in the region posterior to cloacal aperture, and a pair of double postcloacal papillae, females by a spherical, knob-like annule posterior to lip region, annulated neck region with fourth annule wider than the other six, and 15 spined cervical collars. Males ofC. mexicanan. sp. can be differentiated from other described species by the presence of minute and irregularly distributed cervical spines placed on 11 annules, plus an elevated lip region; females bear 15 cervical collars with leaf-like spines.Carnoyacepacapitatusn. sp. closely resemblesC. caputbulla, whereasC. mexicanan. sp. resembles several species of Caribbean distribution, mainlyC. haiti, but differs from all of them primarily in the number, distribution and size of the cervical spined collars. Females ofC. cepacapitatusn. sp. resemble Asian species that possess a knob-like cephalic region.Carnoyamexicanan. sp. resembles more closely the American species of this genus based on the form of the cephalic region in both sexes, but especially the number and distribution of the spined collars in the male. Partial sequences of SSU and LSU are presented for females of both species.
Four new species of Iponematinae (Drilonematidae, Drilonematoidea, Cephalobomorpha) parasitic in earthworms: description and molecular affiliations
Authors: Ivanova Elena S. , Spiridonov Sergei E.
Published: October 2015

Three new species of Filiponema, Filiponema sp., and a new species of Iponema are described from earthworms. Filiponema champa sp. n., from the coelomic cavity of Pheretima sp. from Vietnam, is closest to F. cylindropharyngatum and F. javanicum but differs in having a wider body, longer spicules and more conspicuous excretory pore. Filiponema yaoense sp. n., from the coelomic cavity of Pheretima sp. from Vietnam, is differentiated from all valid species of Filiponema by its long, conspicuous excretory duct and a nerve ring situated more closely to the anterior extremity. It can be differentiated from F. champa sp. n. by a slimmer body, the more anterior position of amphids, circular vs transversely elliptical amphids and caudal organs, the wider tail tip, a shorter mail tail, longer eggs, smaller, straighter, spicules and a smaller gubernaculum. Filiponema suifunense sp. n., from the coelomic cavity of Drawida ghilarovi from Russia, is distinguished from all known species of the genus due to the presence of narrow, projecting lateral fields. Filiponema sp., from the coelomic cavity of Lumbricus friendi from France, is described but not named due to lack of material. Iponema visayanum sp. n., from the coelomic cavity of Megascolecidae gen. sp. from the Philippines, can be distinguished from I. tonkinense by its longer spicules and pharynx and its larger amphids situated further from the anterior extremity than in I. tonkinense. D2-D3 LSU sequences were obtained for I. visayanum sp. n. and F. suifunense sp. n. and compared with homologous sequences of other Drilonematoidea nematodes.
On the Strength of the Reason Against Harming
Authors: Gardner Molly
Published: October 2015

According to action-relative accounts of harming, an action harms someone only if it makes her worse off in some respect than she would have been, had the action not been performed. Action-relative accounts can be contrasted with effect-relative accounts, which hold that an action may harm an individual in virtue of its effects on that individual, regardless of whether the individual would have been better off in the absence of the action. In this paper, I argue that our judgments about the strength of the reason against harming lend support to effect-relative accounts over action-relative accounts. I first criticize Fiona Woollard’s argument for the claim that an effect-relative account of harming could ground only a weak reason against harming. I then argue for a set of three principles that can be conjoined with an effect-relative account to explain the strength of the reason against harming.
New data on the genus Wiedemannia Zetterstedt (Diptera: Empididae) from the Caucasus with description of four new species
Authors: KUSTOV SEMEN , ZHEREBILO DANIL
Published: October 2015

Currently, 17 species of aquatic dance flies of the genus Wiedemannia are known from the Caucasus including four new species: W. ivkovicae sp. nov. (South Ossetia), W. nartshukae sp. nov. (South Ossetia), W. ossetiana sp. nov. (South Ossetia) and W. pseguashae sp. nov. (Georgia, South Ossetia). Wiedemannia (Chamaedipsia) lota Walker 1851 (Russia; Georgia) is recorded from the Caucasus for the first time. The inaccuracies in species records from the different countries of the Caucasus have been eliminated. Nine species are recorded for the first time from the territory of Georgia, five species for Abkhazia and one for Russia. The new species are described, all species illustrated and distribution listed. A key to species of Wiedemannia from the Caucasus is provided.
Contribution to the taxonomy of scaly crickets (Orthoptera: Mogoplistidae: Mogoplistinae) from Southeast Asia
Authors: TAN MING KAI , DAWWRUENG PATTARAWICH , ARTCHAWAKOM TAKSIN
Published: October 2015

Three new species of scaly crickets are described: Ornebius xinyao sp. n. from Singapore; Ornebius dowwiangkanae sp. n. and Terraplistes ingrischi sp. n. from Thailand. Ornebius insculptus Tan & Ingrisch, 2013 from Singapore is also corrected for nomenclatural error from the original name Ornebius insculpta.
A new species of clearwing moth (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae: Osminiini) from Peninsular Malaysia, exhibiting bee-like morphology and behaviour
Authors: SKOWRON MARTA A. , MUNISAMY BADMANATHAN , HAMID SUHAILA BINTI AB. , WĘGRZYN GRZEGORZ
Published: October 2015

A new species of Sesiidae, tribe Osminiini from Peninsular Malaysia, Heterosphecia pahangensis Skowron, displaying numerous bee-mimicking features, is described. DNA barcodes showed significant differences with related taxa. However, the paucity of Sesiidae barcodes from Southeast Asia prevents meaningful taxonomic comparisons. The closest match out of published data on Sesiidae barcodes is Heterosphecia bantanakai, Arita & Gorbunov (2000a) from the tribe Osminiini, which has 9.98% sequence divergence from Heterosphecia pahangensis. Photographs of the moth in its natural habitat are shown. Behavioural aspects, such as mud-puddling and mode of flight, are described and presented in a video.
Impact of Soil Moisture Initialization and Soil Texture on Simulated Land–Atmosphere Interaction in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Tzu-Shun , Cheng Fang-Yi
Published: October 2015

This study investigates the effect of soil moisture initializations and soil texture on the land surface hydrologic processes and its feedback on atmospheric fields in Taiwan. The simulations using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model with the Noah land surface model were conducted for a 1-month period from 10 August to 12 September 2013 that included two typhoon-induced precipitation episodes and a series of clear-sky days. Soil moisture from the Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS) was utilized to provide the soil moisture initialization process. In addition, updated soil textures based on field surveys in Taiwan were adopted for the WRF Model. Three WRF sensitivity runs were performed. The first simulation is the base case without any update (WRF-base), the second simulation utilizes GLDAS products to initialize the soil moisture (WRF-GLDAS), and the third simulation includes GLDAS products plus the updated soil textures and soil parameters (WRF-GSOIL). In WRF-base, the soil moisture initialization process is provided from National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Final (FNL) Operational Global Analysis data, which are higher than the data from GLDAS products. The WRF-GLDAS and WRF-GSOIL with use of GLDAS data show lower soil moisture than WRF-base and agree better with observed data, while WRF-base shows a systematic wet bias of soil moisture throughout the simulation periods. In WRF-GSOIL, the soil textures with large-sized soil particles reveal higher soil conductivity; as a result, water drains through the soil column in a faster manner than the WRF-GLDAS, which leads to reduced soil moisture in western Taiwan. Among the three simulations, the variation of soil moisture is best simulated in WRF-GSOIL.
A Historical and Anthropological Comparative of the Family Planning Strategies of India and China
Authors: Sarcar Aprajita
Published: October 2015

The article tracks the evolution of the family planning programmes in India and China and the conceptual linkages between the two. This comparison, in turn, serves as an entry point for studying the following: The role that the family plays in becoming the site of governance and deploying state-led capitalism in the two countries. The assumptions behind the development trajectories in both countries. What are the ways in which the policies amplified patrilineal hierarchies within families to produce the disturbing outcome of the missing girl child—this even as the family planning policies became constrained as they were acting within a cultural milieu of patriarchy.

The article uses studies and commentaries across disciplines, such as, historical demography and anthropology to situate its arguments. The conclusion it attempts to put forth is that the small family norm was operationalised in various differing ways in both states, and yet the commonalities that arose were the following: The declining sex ratio in both states as an immediate repercussion of the enforcement of the small family norm. The structuring of the health services around the family planning operations. The small family norm becoming an end in itself, as a mode of reaching a level of development akin to the West, and as an ethic for modernising nations.