bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual Odometry for Planetary Exploration Rovers in Sandy Terrains
Authors: Li Linhui , Lian Jing , Guo Lie , Wang Rongben
Published: May 2013

Abstract Visual odometry provides planetary exploration rovers with accurate knowledge of their position and orientation, which needs effective feature tracking results, especially in barren sandy terrains. In this paper, a stereovision based odometry algorithm is proposed for a lunar rover, which is composed of corner extraction, feature tracking and motion estimation. First, a morphology based image enhancement method is studied to guarantee enough corners are extracted. Second, a Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) algorithm is proposed to make a robust estimation of the fundamental matrix, which is the basic and critical part of feature matching and tracking. Then, the 6 degrees of freedom rover position and orientation is estimated by the RANSAC algorithm. Finally, experiments are performed in a simulated lunar surface environment using a prototype rover, which have confirmed the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Measuring Tape-Like Sampling Arm and Drill for Sampling Lunar Regolith
Authors: Lu Wei , Ling Yun , Song Aiguo , Zeng Heng , Ding Weimin , Xu Baoguo , Gu Shipeng
Published: May 2013

Abstract For the task of shallow lunar regolith sampling, we have designed a novel Measuring Tape-like Sampling Arm and Drill (MTS) which is a kind of flexible robot. The advantages of the sampling arm are that it has a small shrink volume, long working distance, light weight, low power consumption and good adaptivity, which is driven by one motor only. Furthermore, it has a large reverse torque with a short force arm, so the pushing force is large enough for the end-effector to penetrate into the lunar regolith. The sampling head which includes two opposite rotating parts has no-reaction screw force. The vibrator located in the sampling head can vibrate at frequencies ranging from 1 to 42Hz and can result in resonance of the sampling head. Therefore, it can improve the efficiency of thrusting, sampling and casting throw. We have carried out theoretical analysis, simulations and experimental studies and it is has been proved that the sampler can sample quantitatively at a of depth of 10 cm in simulated lunar regolith (model CAS-1), cement and sand.
An Efficient Inverse Kinematic Algorithm for a PUMA560-Structured Robot Manipulator
Authors: Liu Huashan , Zhou Wuneng , Lai Xiaobo , Zhu Shiqiang
Published: May 2013

Abstract This paper presents an efficient inverse kinematics (IK) approach which features fast computing performance for a PUMA560-structured robot manipulator. By properties of the orthogonal matrix and block matrix, the complex IK matrix equations are transformed into eight pure algebraic equations that contain the six unknown joint angle variables, which makes the solving compact without computing the reverses of the 4×4 homogeneous transformation matrices. Moreover, the appropriate combination of related equations ensures that the solutions are free of extraneous roots in the solving process, and the wrist singularity problem of the robot is also addressed. Finally, a case study is given to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
A Facile One Step Solution Route to Synthesize Cuprous Oxide Nanofluid
Authors: Sandhya Shenoy U. , Nityananda Shetty A.
Published: May 2013

A cuprous oxide nanofluid stabilized by sodium lauryl sulfate, synthesized by using the one step method, has been reported. Nanofluids were synthesized by using a well-controlled surfactant-assisted solution phase synthesis. The method involved reduction of copper acetate by glucose in a mixture of water and ethylene glycol serving as the base fluid. The synthesized fluid was characterized by X-ray and electron diffraction techniques, in addition, transmission and field emission microscopic techniques and Fourier transform infra red spectroscopic analysis was undertaken. The rheological property, as well as the thermal conductivity of the fluid, were measured. The variation of reaction parameters considerably affected the size of the particles as well as the reaction rate. The uniform dispersion of the particles in the base fluid led to a stability period of three months under stationary state, augmenting the thermal conductivity of the nanofluid. The method is found to be simple, reliable and fast for the synthesis of Newtonian nanofluids containing cuprous oxide nanoparticles.
Body Size and Diet of Amphiuma Means (Caudata: Amphiumidae) From Southeastern Virginia
Authors: Mitchell Joseph C.
Published: May 2013

Body size relationships and diet was obtained largely from a sample of Two-toed Amphiuma (Amphiuma means) from the Great Dismal Swamp in southeastern Virginia. Maximum body size (842 mm total length) was similar to that reported for other locations farther south in the species' range but less than the maximum known size. Adult males (x̄ SVL  =  489 mm) were significantly larger than adult females (x̄ SVL  =  424 mm). Tail length was linearly related to total length and was not sexually dimorphic. Log transformed body size explains 93.7% of log-body weight; the relationship did not differ between sexes. Prey consisted of several insect taxa (including bees), crayfish (Procambarus), tadpoles (Lithobates), and small fish (Umbra), further confirming that amphiumas have catholic diets.
Notes on Flat Needlefish, Ablennes hians in North Carolina
Authors: Schwartz Frank J. , Purifoy Joseph
Published: May 2013

Maximum lengths of three flat needlefish, Ablennes hians collected in North Carolina between1990 and 2012 increased to 564 mm TL for inshore captures and 1,300 mm TL for offshore captures.
Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kim Seoyoung C. , Schneeweiss Sebastian , Liu Jun , Solomon Daniel H.
Published: May 2013

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD), but little is known about its association with another form of vascular disorder, venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using US insurance claims. RA and non‐RA patients were matched on age, sex, and index date. Incidence rates (IRs) and rate ratios (RRs) of VTE, defined as the composite of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), were calculated. Cox proportional hazards models compared VTE risks between RA and non‐RA patients, adjusting for VTE risk factors such as CVD, surgery, hospitalization, medications, and acute‐phase reactants.

Results

Over the mean followup of 2 years, the IR for VTE among RA patients was 6.1 per 1,000 person‐years, 2.4 times higher (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.1–2.8) than the rate of non‐RA patients. The IRs for both DVT (RR 2.2, 95% CI 1.9–2.6) and PE (RR 2.7, 95% CI 2.2–3.5) were higher in RA patients compared with non‐RA patients. After adjusting for risk factors of VTE, the VTE risk remained elevated in RA patients (hazard ratio 1.4, 95% CI 1.1–1.7) compared to non‐RA patients. The result was similar after further adjustment for elevated acute‐phase reactants (hazard ratio 1.5, 95% CI 0.3–6.5). One‐third of patients who developed VTE had at least 1 major VTE risk factor 90 days before and after the VTE event.

Conclusion

Our results showed an increased risk of developing VTE for RA patients compared with non‐RA patients. The risk was attenuated but remained elevated even after adjusting for various risk factors for VTE.
RAHelp: An Online Intervention for Individuals With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Shigaki Cheryl L. , Smarr Karen L. , Siva Chokkalingam , Ge Bin , Musser Dale , Johnson Rebecca
Published: May 2013

Objective

To test an intervention for improving self‐management in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using an online, cognitive–behavioral, self‐management group program (RAHelp), with weekly telephone support.

Methods

A 2‐group, randomized study design was used to compare an intervention for RA versus a waiting‐list control condition. The intervention used a secure web site (RAHelp.org) to provide a 10‐week program with weekly educational modules for improving self‐efficacy in self‐management of RA, plus tools for group interaction. Weekly telephone contacts were made to encourage use of program tools and apply newly learned skills. A nationwide convenience sample of 106 adult participants (mean age 50 years, 93% women) was recruited primarily through online advertisements. Main outcome measures included the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2 (affective, physical, role, social, and pain/symptom components), Arthritis Self‐Efficacy Scale (ASES), Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, Quality of Life Scale (QLS), Rapid Assessment of Disease Activity in Rheumatology, Social Provisions Scale, and University of California, Los Angeles Loneliness Scale 3.

Results

Group differences with large and moderate effect sizes (ES) were found immediately postintervention for self‐efficacy (ASES; ES 0.92, P = 0.00001) and quality of life (QLS; ES 0.66, P = 0.003), respectively. At 9 months postintervention, differences in self‐efficacy (ASES; ES 0.92, P = 0.00001) and quality of life (QLS; ES 0.71, P = 0.004) remained robust.

Conclusion

RAHelp appears to have beneficial effects in terms of self‐efficacy and quality of life among individuals with RA who are willing to use an online service format.
Graphene Paper Doped with Chemically Compatible Prussian Blue Nanoparticles as Nanohybrid Electrocatalyst
Authors: Zhu Nan , Han Shuang , Gan Shiyu , Ulstrup Jens , Chi Qijin
Published: May 2013

Along with reduced graphene oxide (RGO), water soluble Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs, around 6 nm) are synthesized and broadly characterized. These two types of highly stable, low‐cost and chemically compatible nanomaterials are exploited as building ingredients to prepare electrically enhanced and functionally endorsed nanohybrid electrocatalysts, which are further transformed into free‐standing graphene papers. PBNPs doped graphene papers show highly efficient electrocatalysis towards reduction of hydrogen peroxide and can be used alone as flexible chemical sensors for potential applications in detection of hydrogen peroxide or/and other organic peroxides. The as‐prepared PBNPs–RGO papers are further capable of biocompatible accommodation of enzymes for development of free‐standing enzyme based biosensors. In this regard, glucose oxidase is used as an example for electrocatalytic oxidation and detection of glucose. The present work demonstrates a facile and highly reproducible way to construct free‐standing and flexible graphene paper doped with electroactive catalyst. Thanks to high stability, low‐cost and efficient electrocatalytic characteristics, this kind of nanohybrid material has potential to be produced on a large scale, and offers a broad range of possible applications, particularly in the fabrication of flexible sensing devices and as a platform for electrocatalytic energy conversion.
Thermoelectric Property Study of Nanostructured p‐Type Half‐Heuslers (Hf, Zr, Ti)CoSb0.8Sn0.2
Authors: Yan Xiao , Liu Weishu , Chen Shuo , Wang Hui , Zhang Qian , Chen Gang , Ren Zhifeng
Published: May 2013

Based on the best peak theromoelectric figure‐of‐merit value (ZT) of ca. 0.8 in Hf0.5Zr0.5CoSb0.8Sn0.2 and ca. 1 in Hf0.8Ti0.2CoSb0.8Sn0.2, the effect of Ti on thermoelectric properties is studied in (Hf, Zr, Ti)CoSb0.8Sn0.2, with the aim of further improving the ZT and reducing the usage of Hf. By either partial replacement of Hf and Zr with Ti in Hf0.5Zr0.5CoSb0.8Sn0.2 or partial replacement of Hf and Ti with Zr in Hf0.8Ti0.2CoSb0.8Sn0.2, a peak ZT of ≥1 is achieved at 800°C in Hf0.44Zr0.44Ti0.12CoSb0.8Sn0.2. This composition has two advantages over the previous two best compositions: higher ZT than Hf0.5Zr0.5CoSb0.8Sn0.2 and less Hf than in Hf0.8Ti0.2CoSb0.8Sn0.2. A higher ZT with less Hf is very much desired since Hf is much more expensive than other constituent elements. The ZT improvement is the result of thermal conductivity reduction due to phonon scattering by both alloy and the nanostructure effect.
A nanoscale model for characterizing the complex pore structure of biochars
Authors: Zygourakis Kyriacos , Sun Hao , Markenscoff Pauline
Published: May 2013

The development of a novel nanoscale model that can accurately describe the reactivity of solids consisting of multiple components and having ordered and random pores is presented. Domains of multiple solid phases are distributed on a computational grid to simulate reactants with different specific reactivities and dispersions. Sub‐nanometer slit pores and larger cylindrical pores with given size distributions are also distributed on the grid in regular and random arrangements respectively. The generated solids are then eroded using rules that simulate a gas‐solid, non‐catalytic reaction occurring in the kinetic control regime. A parametric study is first carried out to demonstrate how key pore structural parameters affect the reactivity patterns. Model predictions are found to be in excellent agreement with experimental thermogravimetric data for the combustion of biochars, both when the slit and random cylindrical pores are fully accessible to the reactant and when diffusional limitations appear in the smaller slit pores. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 3412–3420, 2013
Proactive scheduling of batch processes by a combined robust optimization and multiparametric programming approach
Authors: Wittmann‐Hohlbein Martina , Pistikopoulos Efstratios N.
Published: May 2013

We address short‐term batch process scheduling problems contaminated with uncertainty in the data. The mixed integer linear programming (MILP) scheduling model, based on the formulation of Ierapetritou and Floudas, Ind Eng Chem Res. 1998; 37(11):4341–4359, contains parameter dependencies at multiple locations, yielding a general multiparametric (mp) MILP problem. A proactive scheduling policy is obtained by solving the partially robust counterpart formulation. The counterpart model may remain a multiparametric problem, yet it is immunized against uncertainty in the entries of the constraint matrix and against all parameters whose values are not available at the time of decision making. We extend our previous work on the approximate solution of mp‐MILP problems by embedding different uncertainty sets (box, ellipsoidal and budget parameter regulated uncertainty), and by incorporating information about the availability of uncertain data in the construction of the partially robust scheduling model. For any parameter realization, the corresponding schedule is then obtained through function evaluation. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 4184–4211, 2013
Enhancement in ammonia sensitivity with fast response by doping Al2O3 in polyaniline
Authors: Tripathi Akhilesh , Misra Kamakhya Prakash , Shukla R. K.
Published: May 2013

Al2O3 mixed polyaniline composite with different dopant concentrations have been synthesized successfully by chemical oxidation method. X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV–visible spectroscopy confirm the synthesis of the polyaniline and Al2O3 mixed polyaniline composite. Scanning electron microscopy shows the weak crystalline quality of the samples. The samples are found sensitive to ammonia gas. The sensing properties have been studied at different temperatures i.e. 25°C, 50°C, and 100°C by varying the ammonia concentration over a range of 100–1500 ppm. The sensitivity increases with increasing Al2O3 concentration, increasing ammonia concentration, and also with increasing the sensing temperature. Sensitivity of these samples to ammonia gas is good with fast response. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 1941–1948, 2013
Behavioural strategy of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in response to different kinds of boats in the waters of Lampedusa Island (Italy)
Authors: La Manna G. , Manghi M. , Pavan G. , Lo Mascolo F. , Sarà G.
Published: May 2013

Owing to the increase of boat‐traffic in the ocean many studies have been conducted to determine the response of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) to this kind of disturbance. This species is affected by boats in various ways and the response depends on the behavioural state of the dolphin but also on the kind of vessel.

This study aimed to determine the effect of motorboats and trawlers on dolphins' presence, permanence in the area and whistle parameters in Lampedusa waters (Italy). Sampling was carried out between May and December 2006 and between July and September 2009, using experimental passive acoustic monitoring systems (PAM); a total of 300 h of recordings and 3000 whistles were analysed.

The dolphins' behavioural strategies depend on the kind of boats: in the case of motorboats, dolphins preferred to leave the area as the disturbance became too heavy to be tolerated; in the case of trawlers, dolphins changed their acoustic behaviour to compensate for the masking noise.

The study highlighted the efficacy of PAM to detect the behavioural response of dolphins, suggesting a novel approach to assessing anthropogenic influences on marine mammal vocalizations in the absence of visual observations.

Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Necessity of Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptor 1 for Development of Arthritis
Authors: Miyabe Yoshishige , Miyabe Chie , Iwai Yoshiko , Takayasu Aiko , Fukuda Shin , Yokoyama Waka , Nagai Jun , Jona Masahiro , Tokuhara Yasunori , Ohkawa Ryunosuke , Albers Harald M. , Ovaa Huib , Aoki Junken , Chun Jerold , Yatomi Yutaka , Ueda Hiroshi , Miyasaka Masayuki , Miyasaka Nobuyuki , Nanki Toshihiro
Published: May 2013

Objective

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a bioactive lipid that binds to a group of cell surface G protein–coupled receptors (LPA receptors 1–6 [LPA1–6]) and has been implicated as an important mediator of angiogenesis, inflammation, and cancer growth. This study was undertaken to analyze the effects of LPA1 on the development of arthritis.

Methods

Expression of LPA receptors on synovial tissue was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. The effects of abrogation of LPA1 on collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) were evaluated using LPA1‐deficient mice or LPA1 antagonist. Migrating fluorescence‐labeled CD11b+ splenocytes, which were transferred into the synovium of mice with CIA, were counted. CD4+ naive T cells were incubated under Th1‐, Th2‐, or Th17‐polarizing conditions, and T helper cell differentiation was assessed. Osteoclast formation from bone marrow cells was examined.

Results

LPA1 was highly expressed in the synovium of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared with that of patients with osteoarthritis. LPA1‐deficient mice did not develop arthritis following immunization with type II collagen (CII). LPA1 antagonist also ameliorated murine CIA. Abrogation of LPA1 was associated with reductions in cell infiltration, bone destruction in the joints, and interleukin‐17 production from CII‐stimulated splenocytes. Infiltration of transferred CD11b+ macrophages from LPA1‐deficient mice into the synovium was suppressed compared with infiltration of macrophages from wild‐type mice. LPA1 antagonist inhibited the infiltration of macrophages from wild‐type mice. Differentiation into Th17, but not Th1 or Th2, and osteoclast formation were also suppressed under conditions of LPA1 deficiency or LPA1 inhibition in vitro.

Conclusion

Collectively, these results indicate that LPA/LPA1 signaling contributes to the development of arthritis via cellular infiltration, Th17 differentiation, and osteoclastogenesis. Thus, LPA1 may be a promising target molecule for RA therapy.
Angiogenesis in Rheumatoid Arthritis Is Fostered Directly by Toll‐like Receptor 5 Ligation and Indirectly Through Interleukin‐17 Induction
Authors: Kim Seung‐jae , Chen Zhenlong , Chamberlain Nathan D. , Volin Michael V. , Swedler William , Volkov Suncica , Sweiss Nadera , Shahrara Shiva
Published: May 2013

Objective

To examine the impact of Toll‐like receptor 5 (TLR‐5) on endothelial cell function in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and vascularization in collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA).

Methods

Endothelial cell migration and tube formation assays were used to demonstrate the direct role of TLR‐5 ligation in angiogenesis. Mice with CIA were treated with the TLR‐5 agonist flagellin to document the effect of TLR‐5 ligation in RA pathology. Vascularization in CIA was determined by immunohistochemical analysis and determination of cytokine levels in ankle joints. Spleen Th17 cells and joint interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) were quantified by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting analysis and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The development of Th17 cells induced by TLR‐5 ligation was validated in RA peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Results

Ligation of TLR‐5 to endogenous ligands expressed in RA synovial fluid contributed to endothelial cell infiltration and tube formation. Furthermore, treatment with flagellin after the onset of CIA exacerbated joint inflammation; in contrast, inflammation in control mice remained at a plateau phase. We showed that TLR‐5–enhanced disease severity was attributable to Th17 cell differentiation and joint vascularization in CIA. Examination of the underlying mechanism using RA peripheral blood mononuclear cells documented that ligation of TLR‐5 in myeloid cells and production of Th17–promoting cytokines were necessary for Th17 cell polarization. Additionally, we demonstrated that blockade of the IL‐17 cascade markedly reduced endothelial cell migration activated by flagellin‐conditioned medium, suggesting that TLR‐5 ligation can mediate RA angiogenesis either directly by attracting endothelial cells or indirectly by fostering Th17 cell development.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate a novel role for TLR‐5 in RA angiogenesis; thus, TLR‐5 may be a promising new target for RA treatment.
Hsp90 Inhibition Protects Against Biomechanically Induced Osteoarthritis in Rats
Authors: Siebelt Michiel , Jahr Holger , Groen Harald C. , Sandker Marjan , Waarsing Jan H. , Kops Nicole , Müller Cristina , van Eden Willem , de Jong Marion , Weinans Harrie
Published: May 2013

Objective

Although articular cartilage has evolved to facilitate joint mobilization, severe loading can induce chondrocyte apoptosis, which is related to the progression of osteoarthritis (OA). To avoid apoptosis, chondrocytes synthesize heat‐shock proteins (HSPs). This study was undertaken to examine the roles of Hsp70 and Hsp90 in biomechanically induced OA, and the possibility of using Hsp90 inhibition as an intervention strategy for OA management.

Methods

OA was biomechanically induced in rats by means of strenuous running. Disease progression was compared between running rats treated with Hsp90 inhibitor and untreated running controls. Hsp70 and Hsp90 protein levels in articular cartilage were determined by Western blotting. OA progression was monitored using contrast‐enhanced micro–computed tomography to measure cartilage degradation and subchondral bone changes and single‐photon–emission computed tomography to examine synovial macrophage activation and histologic features.

Results

Chronic cartilage loading led to early OA development, characterized by degeneration of cartilage extracellular matrix. In vivo Hsp90 inhibition resulted in increased Hsp70 synthesis, which suggests that Hsp90 activity limits Hsp70 production. Hsp90 inhibitor treatment increased cartilage sulfated glycosaminoglycan levels to concentrations even beyond baseline and protected against cartilage degradation, stimulated subchondral bone thickness, and suppressed macrophage activation.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that Hsp90 plays a pivotal role in biomechanically induced chondrocyte stress responses. Intervention strategies that inhibit Hsp90 can potentially protect or improve cartilage health and might prevent OA development.
Protein Kinase Cδ Deficiency Causes Mendelian Systemic Lupus Erythematosus With B Cell‐Defective Apoptosis and Hyperproliferation
Authors: Belot Alexandre , Kasher Paul R. , Trotter Eleanor W. , Foray Anne‐Perrine , Debaud Anne‐Laure , Rice Gillian I. , Szynkiewicz Marcin , Zabot Marie‐Therese , Rouvet Isabelle , Bhaskar Sanjeev S. , Daly Sarah B. , Dickerson Jonathan E. , Mayer Josephine , O'Sullivan James , Juillard Laurent , Urquhart Jill E. , Fawdar Shameem , Marusiak Anna A. , Stephenson Natalie , Waszkowycz Bohdan , Beresford Michael W. , Biesecker Leslie G. , Black Graeme C. M. , René Céline , Eliaou Jean‐François , Fabien Nicole , Ranchin Bruno , Cochat Pierre , Gaffney Patrick M. , Rozenberg Flore , Lebon Pierre , Malcus Christophe , Crow Yanick J. , Brognard John , Bonnefoy Nathalie
Published: May 2013

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototype autoimmune disease that is assumed to occur via a complex interplay of environmental and genetic factors. Rare causes of monogenic SLE have been described, providing unique insights into fundamental mechanisms of immune tolerance. The aim of this study was to identify the cause of an autosomal‐recessive form of SLE.

Methods

We studied 3 siblings with juvenile‐onset SLE from 1 consanguineous kindred and used next‐generation sequencing to identify mutations in the disease‐associated gene. We performed extensive biochemical, immunologic, and functional assays to assess the impact of the identified mutations on B cell biology.

Results

We identified a homozygous missense mutation in PRKCD, encoding protein kinase δ (PKCδ), in all 3 affected siblings. Mutation of PRKCD resulted in reduced expression and activity of the encoded protein PKCδ (involved in the deletion of autoreactive B cells), leading to resistance to B cell receptor– and calcium‐dependent apoptosis and increased B cell proliferation. Thus, as for mice deficient in PKCδ, which exhibit an SLE phenotype and B cell expansion, we observed an increased number of immature B cells in the affected family members and a developmental shift toward naive B cells with an immature phenotype.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that PKCδ is crucial in regulating B cell tolerance and preventing self‐reactivity in humans, and that PKCδ deficiency represents a novel genetic defect of apoptosis leading to SLE.
Brain Morphometric Changes Associated With Childhood‐Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Neurocognitive Deficit
Authors: Gitelman Darren R. , Klein‐Gitelman Marisa S. , Ying Jun , Sagcal‐Gironella Anna Carmela P. , Zelko Frank , Beebe Dean W. , DiFrancesco Mark , Parrish Todd , Hummel Jessica , Beckwith Travis , Brunner Hermine I.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To use structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to characterize changes in gray matter and white matter volumes between patients with childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and matched controls, between patients with childhood‐onset SLE with and those without neurocognitive deficit, and in relation to disease duration and treatment with steroids.

Methods

Twenty‐two patients with childhood‐onset SLE and 19 healthy controls underwent high‐resolution structural MRI. Probability density maps for gray matter and white matter were compared between groups.

Results

Neuropsychological testing confirmed the presence of neurocognitive deficit in 8 patients with childhood‐onset SLE. Multiple brain regions had reduced gray matter volume in the patients with childhood‐ onset SLE with neurocognitive deficit versus controls or patients with childhood‐onset SLE without neurocognitive deficit. Neither disease duration nor cumulative oral or intravenous steroid doses accounted for decreases in gray matter. White matter volume was also reduced in patients with childhood‐onset SLE with neurocognitive deficit, and the reduction was positively associated with both disease duration and cumulative oral steroid dose. Conversely, higher cumulative intravenous steroid doses were associated with higher white matter volumes.

Conclusion

Neurocognitive deficit in patients with childhood‐onset SLE is associated with multifocal decreases in both gray and white matter volumes. Since only white matter volume changes are related to disease duration and cumulative oral steroid use, this may suggest that gray and white matter alterations relate to different underlying mechanisms. Further work is needed to understand the relationship between gray and white matter alterations in childhood‐onset SLE, whether the underlying mechanisms relate to immunologic, vascular, or other causes, and whether the changes are reversible or preventable. Likewise, the protective properties of intravenous steroids in maintaining white matter volumes require confirmation in larger cohorts.
Surgical behaviour
Authors: Galandiuk S
Published: May 2013

Do the best for the patient
Ferulic acid in the treatment of post‐diabetes testicular damage: relevance to the down regulation of apoptosis correlates with antioxidant status via modulation of TGF‐β1, IL‐1β and Akt signalling
Authors: Roy Souvik , Metya Satyajit Kumar , Rahaman Noorjaman , Sannigrahi Santanu , Ahmed Faiqa
Published: May 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of ferulic acid at different doses (50 mg kg−1 alternative day and 50 mg kg−1 daily) on the streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced post‐diabetes rat testicular damage. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (50 mg/kg). Rats treated with ferulic acid were given once a day orally for 10 weeks, starting 3 days after STZ injection. Testis tissue and blood samples were collected for investigating biochemical analysis, antioxidant status, sperm parameters, and histopathological, immunohistochemical and apoptotic studies. Treatment with ferulic acid to diabetic rats significantly improved the body weight, testis weight, serum insulin level, serum testosterone level and sperm parameters (viability, motility and count). Histopathological study also revealed that ferulic acid‐treated diabetic rats showed an improved histological appearance. Our data indicated that significant reduction in the activity of apoptosis by using terminal deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end‐labelling and reduced expression of transforming growth factor‐β1 and interleukin‐1β in the testis tissue of ferulic acid‐treated diabetic rats. Conversely, it was also revealed that ferulic acid‐treated diabetic rats markedly enhanced the serine/threonine protein kinase protein expression in the testis tissue. Our result suggests that ferulic acid inhibits testicular damage in diabetic rats by declining oxidative stress. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiphysics computational models for cardiac flow and virtual cardiography
Authors: Seo Jung Hee , Vedula Vijay , Abraham Theodore , Mittal Rajat
Published: May 2013

A multiphysics simulation approach is developed for predicting cardiac flows as well as for conducting virtual echocardiography (ECHO) and phonocardiography (PC) of those flows. Intraventricular blood flow in pathological heart conditions is simulated by solving the three‐dimensional incompressible Navier–Stokes equations with an immersed boundary method, and using this computational hemodynamic data, echocardiographic and phonocardiographic signals are synthesized by separate simulations that model the physics of ultrasound wave scattering and flow‐induced sound, respectively. For virtual ECHO, a Doppler ultrasound image is reproduced through Lagrangian particle tracking of blood cell particles and application of sound wave scattering theory. For virtual PC, the generation and propagation of blood flow‐induced sounds (‘hemoacoustics’) is directly simulated by a computational acoustics model. The virtual ECHO is applied to reproduce a color M‐mode Doppler image for the left ventricle as well as continuous Doppler image for the outflow tract of the left ventricle, which can be verified directly against clinically acquired data. The potential of the virtual PC approach for providing new insights between disease and heart sounds is demonstrated by applying it to modeling systolic murmurs caused by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chiron: a parallel engine for algebraic scientific workflows
Authors: Ogasawara Eduardo , Dias Jonas , Silva Vitor , Chirigati Fernando , de Oliveira Daniel , Porto Fabio , Valduriez Patrick , Mattoso Marta
Published: May 2013

Large‐scale scientific experiments based on computer simulations are typically modeled as scientific workflows, which eases the chaining of different programs. These scientific workflows are defined, executed, and monitored by scientific workflow management systems (SWfMS). As these experiments manage large amounts of data, it becomes critical to execute them in high‐performance computing environments, such as clusters, grids, and clouds. However, few SWfMS provide parallel support. The ones that do so are usually labor‐intensive for workflow developers and have limited primitives to optimize workflow execution. To address these issues, we developed workflow algebra to specify and enable the optimization of parallel execution of scientific workflows. In this paper, we show how the workflow algebra is efficiently implemented in Chiron, an algebraic based parallel scientific workflow engine. Chiron has a unique native distributed provenance mechanism that enables runtime queries in a relational database. We developed two studies to evaluate the performance of our algebraic approach implemented in Chiron; the first study compares Chiron with different approaches, whereas the second one evaluates the scalability of Chiron. By analyzing the results, we conclude that Chiron is efficient in executing scientific workflows, with the benefits of declarative specification and runtime provenance support. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New system software for parallel programming models on the Intel SCC many‐core processor
Authors: Clauss Carsten , Lankes Stefan , Reble Pablo , Bemmerl Thomas
Published: May 2013

Since the beginning of the multicore era, parallel processing has become prevalent across the board. On a traditional multicore system, a single operating system manages all cores and schedules threads and processes among them, inherently supported by hardware‐implemented cache coherence protocols. However, a further growth of the number of cores per system implies an increasing chip complexity, especially with respect to the cache coherence protocols. Therefore, a very attractive alternative for future many‐core systems is to waive the hardware‐based cache coherency and to introduce a software‐oriented message‐passing based architecture instead: a so‐called Cluster‐on‐Chip architecture. Intel's Single‐chip Cloud Computer (SCC), a many‐core research processor with 48 non‐coherent memory‐coupled cores, is a very recent example for such a cluster‐on‐chip architecture. The SCC can be configured to run one operating system instance per core by partitioning the shared main memory in a strict manner. However, it is also possible to access the shared main memory in an unsplit and concurrent manner, provided that either the caches are disabled or the cache coherency is then ensured by software. In this article, we detail our experiences gained while developing low‐level software for message‐passing and shared‐memory programming on the SCC. We present an SCC‐customized MPI library (called SCC‐MPICH) as well as a shared virtual memory system (called MetalSVM) for the SCC. In doing so, we evaluate the potential of both programming models and we show how these models can be improved especially with respect to the SCC's many‐core architecture. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
1.2 V Sinh‐Domain allpass filter
Authors: Psychalinos C. , Roumelioti K. , Khanday F. A. , Shah N. A.
Published: May 2013

A first‐order Sinh‐Domain allpass filter topology is introduced in this paper. It is constructed from a class‐AB current mirror and appropriately configured non‐linear transconductor cells. Due to the inherent class‐AB nature of Sinh‐Domain filters, the proposed topology offers the capability for handling currents at levels greater than that of the dc bias current level. Also, it offers the well‐known features of companding filters such as electronic adjustment of its frequency characteristics and the capability for operation in a low‐voltage environment. In addition, a four‐phase sinusoidal oscillator design example has been provided. The behaviour of the proposed topology has been evaluated and compared with other already known configurations, where the most important performance factors have been considered. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of polyamide‐imide/silica nanocomposite enameled wire
Authors: Kikuchi Hideyuki , Hanawa Hidehito , Honda Yuki
Published: May 2013

Nanocomposite materials based on polyamide‐imide have not been able to prevent nano‐particles from aggregating, and therefore the development of this material has been extremely diﬃcult. However, we prevented aggregation of nano‐particles by developing the low‐hygroscopicity solvent and the copolyamide‐imide, and commercialized a new partial discharge‐resistant enameled wire with nanocomposite polyamide‐imide insulating material in 2010. The lifetime of the newly developed partial discharge‐resistant nanocomposite polyamide‐imide enameled wire is 1000 or more times that of ordinary organic‐enameled wire. The lifetime of the new wire is also excellent in a high‐temperature atmosphere. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(6): 41–48, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11456
Current distribution characteristics of CFRP panels
Authors: Yamamoto Kazuo
Published: May 2013

CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic) is widely used in the structures of aircraft, automobiles, wind turbines, and rockets because of its qualities of high mechanical strength, low weight, fatigue resistance, and dimensional stability. However, these structures are often at risk of being struck by lightning. When lightning strikes such structures and lightning current ﬂows through the CFRP, it may be structurally damaged because of the impact of the lightning strike or by ignition between layers. If there are electronic systems near the CFRP, they may break down or malfunction because of the resulting electromagnetic disturbance. In fact, the generation mechanisms of these breakdowns and malfunctions depend on the current distribution in the CFRP. Hence, it is critical to clarify the current distribution in various kinds of CFRPs. In this study, two kinds of CFRP panels, one composed of quasi‐isotropic lamination layers and the other composed of 0°/90° lamination layers of unidirectional CFRP prepregs, are used to investigate the dependence of the current distribution on the nature of the lamination layers. The current distribution measurements and simulations for CFRP panels are compared with those for a same‐sized aluminum plate. The knowledge of these current distribution characteristics would be very useful for designing the CFRP structures of aircraft, automobiles, wing turbines, rockets, etc. in the future. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(6): 32–40, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11457
Physical unclonable function with multiplexing units and its evaluation
Authors: Yoshikawa Masaya , Asai Toshiya , Shiozaki Mitsuru , Fujino Takeshi
Published: May 2013

Recently, semiconductor counterfeiting has become an increasingly serious problem. Therefore, techniques to prevent counterfeiting by using random characteristic patterns that are diﬃcult to control artiﬁcially have attracted attention. The physical unclonable function (PUF) is one of these techniques. It is a method of deriving ID information peculiar to a device by detecting random physical features that cannot be controlled during the device's manufacture. Because information such as the ID information is diﬃcult to replicate, PUF is used as a technique to prevent counterfeiting. Several studies have been reported on PUF. The arbiter PUF, which utilizes the diﬀerence in signal propagation delay between selectors, is a typical method of composing PUF using delay characteristics. This paper proposes a new PUF which is based on the arbiter PUF. The proposed PUF introduces new multiplexing selector units. It attempts to generate an eﬀective response using the orders of three signal arrivals. Experiments using FPGAs verify the validity of the proposed PUF. Although Uniqueness is degraded, Correctness, Steadiness, Randomness, and Resistance to machine learning attacks are improved in comparison with the conventional approach. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(6): 22–31, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11458
Development of 3D image measurement system and stereo‐matching method, and its archaeological measurement
Authors: Kochi Nobuo , Ito Tadayuki , Kitamura Kazuo , Kaneko Shun'ichi
Published: May 2013

Three‐dimensional measurement and modeling systems with digital cameras on PCs are now making progress and increasingly felt to be desirable in terrestrial (close‐range) photogrammetry for such sectors as cultural heritage preservation, architecture, civil engineering, manufacturing, measurement, etc. Therefore, we have developed a system to improve the accuracy of stereo‐matching, which is the very core of 3D measurement. As a stereo‐matching method, in order to minimize mismatch and to be robust in geometric distortions, occlusion, as well as brightness change, we invented the Coarse‐to‐Fine Strategy Method by integrating OCM (orientation code matching) with LSM (least squares matching). This system could attain an accuracy of 0.26 mm in experiments on a mannequin. In real‐world experiments on archaeological ruins in Greece and Turkey, the accuracy was within 1 cm, compared with their blueprint plan. Formerly, workers required at least 1.5 months for this kind of survey operation with existing methods, but now only 3 or 4 days is needed. This conﬁrmed the practicality and eﬃciency of the new method. Herein we demonstrate our new system of 3D measurement and stereo‐matching and present some concrete examples of its practical application. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(6): 9–21, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11459
Robust design of vibration suppression control system for crane using sway angle observer considering friction disturbance
Authors: Sano Hiroki , Sato Kentaro , Ohishi Kiyoshi , Miyazaki Toshimasa
Published: May 2013

It is desirable for a container crane to operate smoothly and quickly. For this purpose, the control system of a container crane should be capable of antisway control for suppressing vibrations. A vision sensor system is often used to detect the sway angle. However, since a control system with a vision sensor has a delay time when determining the angle, it sometimes leads to deterioration of control performance owing to the delay time. In order to overcome this problem, this paper proposes a new antisway crane control system based on a dual‐state observer with sensor‐delay correction. However, because of nonlinear friction in the crane, the estimation accuracy achieved by using the observer is poor. To overcome this problem, this paper proposes a disturbance observer considering friction disturbance. The control performance and eﬀectiveness of the proposed robust control system based on the estimated information are shown to be satisfactory by experimental results. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 184(3): 36–46, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.22412
Multiple sclerosis lymphocytes upregulate A2A adenosine receptors that are antiinflammatory when stimulated
Authors: Vincenzi Fabrizio , Corciulo Carmen , Targa Martina , Merighi Stefania , Gessi Stefania , Casetta Ilaria , Gentile Mauro , Granieri Enrico , Borea Pier Andrea , Varani Katia
Published: May 2013

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune‐mediated inflammatory disease characterized by multifocal areas of demyelination. Experimental evidence indicates that A2A adenosine receptors (ARs) play a pivotal role in the inhibition of inflammatory processes. The aim of this study was to investigate the contribution of A2AARs in the inhibition of key pro‐inflammatory mediators for the pathogenesis of MS. In lymphocytes from MS patients, A1, A2A, A2B, and A3ARs were analyzed by using RT‐PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and binding assays. Moreover the effect of A2AAR stimulation on proinflammatory cytokine release such as TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐6, IL‐1β, IL‐17, and on lymphocyte proliferation was evaluated. The capability of an A2AAR agonist on the modulation of very late antigen (VLA)‐4 expression and NF‐κB was also explored. A2AAR upregulation was observed in lymphocytes from MS patients in comparison with healthy subjects. The stimulation of these receptors mediated a significant inhibition of TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐6, IL‐1β, IL‐17, and cell proliferation as well as VLA‐4 expression and NF‐κB activation. This new evidence highlights that A2AAR agonists could represent a novel therapeutic tool for MS treatment as suggested by the antiinflammatory role of A2AARs in lymphocytes from MS patients.
Detection of a TLR2 agonist by hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells impacts the function of the macrophages they produce
Authors: Yáñez Alberto , Hassanzadeh‐Kiabi Nargess , Ng Madelena Y. , Megías Javier , Subramanian Aparna , Liu George Y. , Underhill David M. , Gil M. Luisa , Goodridge Helen S.
Published: May 2013

Several groups have shown that detection of microbial components by TLRs on hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) instructs myeloid cell generation, raising interest in the possibility of targeting TLRs on HSPCs to boost myelopoiesis. However, although “TLR‐derived” cells exhibit myeloid cell characteristics (phagocytosis, cytokine production, antigen presentation), it is not clear whether they are functionally equivalent to macrophages derived in the absence of TLR activation. Our in vitro and in vivo studies show that macrophages derived from mouse and human HSPC subsets (including stem cells) exposed to a TLR2 agonist prior to or during macrophage differentiation produce lower levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐1β) and reactive oxygen species. This is in contrast to prior exposure of differentiated macrophages to the TLR2 agonist (“tolerance”), which suppresses inflammatory cytokine production, but elevates reactive oxygen species. Soluble factors produced following exposure of HSPCs to a TLR2 agonist can also act in a paracrine manner to influence the function of macrophages derived from unexposed HSPCs. Our data demonstrate that macrophage function can be influenced by TLR signaling in the HSPCs from which they are derived, and that this may impact the clinical utility of targeting TLRs on HSPCs to boost myelopoiesis.
Influencing the Stability of Diaminomethane‐Containing Azacrown Ether Ligands in the Presence of Transition‐Metal Ions
Authors: Gee William J. , Batten Stuart R.
Published: May 2013

The evaluation of a new azacrown ether ligand bis{[3‐(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐1H‐pyrazol‐1‐yl]methyl}diaza‐18‐crown‐6 (b3pd), which contains pendant p‐pyridylpyrazole arms connected by diaminomethane linkers, identified a tendency to undergo retro‐Mannich fragmentation in the presence of transition‐metal ions. However, treatment of b3pd with potassium perchlorate or potassium iodide prior to complexation with transition‐metal ions imparted a resistance to fragmentation, such that crystallisation of coordination polymers from concentrated solutions after several weeks was possible. Four solid‐state structures containing Kb3pd were isolated: a perchlorate salt (1), a divalent manganese 1D coordination polymer [Mn(Kb3pd)(DMF)4]·2ClO4·I3 (2, DMF = N,N‐dimethylformamide), a cuprous 2D coordination network [Cu2(Kb3pd)2(I3)(I)3]·3H2O (3) and a cuprous 1D coordination polymer [Cu(Kb3pd)(I)2] (4). Additionally, the retro‐Mannich process was investigated by in situ FTIR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, crystallography and by the isolation of a cobalt complex ligated by a partially fragmented ligand, mono{[3‐(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐1H‐pyrazol‐1‐yl]methyl}diaza‐18‐crown‐6 (m3pd). The composition of the cobalt complex was found to be [CoCl3(Hm3pd)]·H2O (5).