bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peripheral Arterial Stiffness Is Independently Associated with a Rapid Decline in Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Sheen Yi-Jing , Lin Jiann-Liang , Li Tsai-Chung , Bau Cho-Tsan , Sheu Wayne Huey-Herng
Published: December 2013

Introduction. Diabetes and its vascular complications are main noncommunicable chronic diseases and major global health issues. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is highly prevalent in diabetes with nephropathy. We evaluated the associations of variables of arterial stiffness and the decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in patients with type 2 diabetes.Materials and Methods. A total of 577 type 2 diabetic patients (mean±SD: age,63±11years) were enrolled. A rapid decline in eGFR was defined as progressively lower eGFR detected at both the 6- and 12-month follow-up visits, plus a reduction in eGFR more than 3 mL·min−1per 1.73 m2per year.Results. Higher glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), systolic blood pressure (SBP), pulse pressure (PP), and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV) at baseline were independently associated with a rapid decline in eGFR. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for a rapid decline in eGFR for ba-PWV, SBP, and PP were 1.072 (1.011–1.136), 1.014 (1.004–1.025), and 1.025 (1.008–1.041), respectively, after adjustment for gender, age, body mass index, smoking, HbA1c, and baseline eGFR in separated models.Conclusions. Ba-PWV may serve as a simple and noninvasive predictor of rapid renal function progression in type 2 diabetic patients.
Tetracycline and Glutathione Inhibit Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity: AnIn VitroStudy Using Culture Supernatants of L929 and Dalton Lymphoma Cell Lines
Authors: Kendre Gajanan , Raghavan Rahul , Cheriyamundath Sanith , Madassery Joseph
Published: December 2013

Tetracycline and glutathione inhibited the protease activities of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 expressed by mouse fibrosarcoma cells (L929) and Dalton lymphoma cells, respectively. The inhibitory activity of the tetracycline may be due to its ability to chelate metal ions such as calcium and zinc. Gelatin-zymography technique was used to demonstrate the inhibitory activity of both tetracycline and glutathione. The intensity of the bands corresponding to metalloproteinase activity in zymography gel was reduced in the presence of 50–100 μg/mL of tetracycline. The presence of 10–100 μg/mL of tetracycline in the medium increased the adherence of L929 cancer cells. These results clearly indicate the antimetastatic property of tetracycline. Reduced glutathione, a compound which is produced endogenously by the cells to maintain the redox status, was shown to inhibit the matrix metalloproteinase activity (in vitro). Therefore, it is assumed that decreased glutathione levels in synovial fluids or plasma might increase the activity of MMP. Reduced glutathione at 100 μg/mL inhibited the metalloproteinase activity in gelatin-zymographic gel. As both tetracycline and glutathione exhibited an inhibitory effect on matrix metalloproteinase activity, it was of great interest to check their clinical effects on various MMP associated pathological conditions such as cancer metastasis and arthritis. Here we report that tetracycline and reduced glutathione inhibited the activity of MMP2 completely and activity of MMP9 partly.
Nutrition, Inflammation, and Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Petrov Max
Published: December 2013

Acute pancreatitis is acute inflammatory disease of the pancreas. Nutrition has a number of anti-inflammatory effects that could affect outcomes of patients with pancreatitis. Further, it is the most promising nonspecific treatment modality in acute pancreatitis to date. This paper summarizes the best available evidence regarding the use of nutrition with a view of optimising clinical management of patients with acute pancreatitis.
Clinical Manifestations, Treatment, and Outcome of Hospitalized Patients with Plasmodium vivax Malaria in Two Indian States: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Singh Jagjit , Purohit Bhargav , Desai Anupama , Savardekar Lalita , Shanbag Preeti , Kshirsagar Nilima
Published: December 2013

This was a retrospective study done on 110 patients hospitalized with P. vivax malaria in three medical college hospitals, one in the union territory of Chandigarh and the other two in Gujarat, that is, Ahmedabad and Surat. The clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome were recorded. As per WHO criteria for severity, 19 of 110 patients had severe disease—six patients had clinical jaundice with hepatic dysfunction, three patients had severe anemia, three had spontaneous bleeding, two had acute respiratory distress syndrome, and one had cerebral malaria, hyperparasitemia, renal failure, circulatory collapse, and metabolic acidosis. All patients with severe P. vivax malaria survived, but one child with cerebral malaria had neurological sequelae. There was wide variation in the antimalarial treatment received at the three centres. Plasmodium vivax malaria can no longer be considered a benign condition. WHO guidelines for treatment of P. vivax malaria need to be reinforced.
A Novel Robust Tracking Algorithm in Cluttered Environments for Distributed Sensor Network
Authors: Liu Yunting , Jing Yuanwei , Zhang Siying , Guo Hui
Published: December 2013

Tracking has attracted much attention over the past few years, particularly in the field of distributed sensor network. The most challenging issue is nonline of sight (NLOS) problem in cluttered environments such as indoor or urban areas since the presence of NLOS errors leads to severe degradation in the tracking performance. In this paper, we propose a novel robust tracking algorithm to mitigate the measurement noise and NLOS error. The robust localization method is firstly employed to estimate the positions of the mobile node with different subgroups. Then the residual test method is used to remove the larger localization error. Finally, the modified Kalman filter is introduced to improve the tracking accuracy. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can track the mobile node and estimate the position with relatively higher accuracy in comparison with existing methods.
Research on the Energy Consumption Evaluation and Energy Saving Technical Reconstruction of Centrifugal Pump System Based on Actual Demand
Authors: Yin Luo , Yuan Shouqi , Yue Tang , Jianping Yuan
Published: December 2013

A new method for calculating the operational efficiency of a pumping station has been developed based on the integral principle and operation rules of the pump flow rate. To determine the energy saving space of a pumping system and to reflect the relationship between supply and demand, a new method for evaluating the energy consumption rate of a pump system has been developed based on the principle of an inverter-controlled water supply with varying pressures. These methods have been applied to a pump station with an apparently efficient operation. By evaluating energy consumption based on actual demand, we developed a new strategy that configures a single frequency converter with a small transitional pump and decreases the energy consumption by almost 14% with a payback time of less than three years.
Unsupervised Approach Data Analysis Based on Fuzzy Possibilistic Clustering: Application to Medical Image MRI
Authors: El Harchaoui Nour-Eddine , Ait Kerroum Mounir , Hammouch Ahmed , Ouadou Mohamed , Aboutajdine Driss
Published: December 2013

The analysis and processing of large data are a challenge for researchers. Several approaches have been used to model these complex data, and they are based on some mathematical theories: fuzzy, probabilistic, possibilistic, and evidence theories. In this work, we propose a new unsupervised classification approach that combines the fuzzy and possibilistic theories; our purpose is to overcome the problems of uncertain data in complex systems. We used the membership function of fuzzy c-means (FCM) to initialize the parameters of possibilistic c-means (PCM), in order to solve the problem of coinciding clusters that are generated by PCM and also overcome the weakness of FCM to noise. To validate our approach, we used several validity indexes and we compared them with other conventional classification algorithms: fuzzy c-means, possibilistic c-means, and possibilistic fuzzy c-means. The experiments were realized on different synthetics data sets and real brain MR images.
Differential Influence of Inositol Hexaphosphate on the Expression of Genes Encoding TGF-βIsoforms and Their Receptors in Intestinal Epithelial Cells Stimulated with Proinflammatory Agents
Authors: Kapral Małgorzata , Wawszczyk Joanna , Sośnicki Stanisław , Węglarz Ludmiła
Published: December 2013

Transforming growth factorβ(TGF-β) is a multifunctional cytokine recognized as an important regulator of inflammatory responses. The effect of inositol hexaphosphate (IP6), a naturally occurring phytochemical, on the mRNA expression of TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TGF-β3 and TβRI, TβRII, and TβRIII receptors stimulated with bacterial lipopolysaccharides (Escherichia coliandSalmonella typhimurium) and IL-1βin intestinal cells Caco-2 for 3 and 12 h was investigated. Real-time qRT-PCR was used to validate mRNAs level of examined genes. Bacterial endotoxin promoted differential expression of TGF-βs and their receptors in a time-dependent manner. IL-1βupregulated mRNA levels of all TGF-βs and receptors at both 3 h and 12 h. IP6 elicited the opposed to LPS effect by increasing downregulated transcription of the examined genes and suppressing the expression of TGF-β1 at 12 h. IP6 counteracted the stimulatory effect of IL-1βon TGF-β1 and receptors expression by decreasing their mRNA levels. IP6 enhanced LPS- and IL-1β-stimulated mRNA expression of TGF-β2 and -β3. Based on these studies it may be concluded that IP6 present in the intestinal milieu may exert immunoregulatory effects and chemopreventive activity on colonic epithelium under inflammatory conditions or during microbe-induced infection/inflammation by modulating the expression of genes encoding TGF-βs and their receptors at transcriptional level.
Nutrition Therapy in the Transition between Hospital and Home: An Investigation of Barriers
Authors: Holst Mette , Rasmussen Henrik Højgaard
Published: December 2013

Aims and Objectives. This study aimed to investigate barriers for nutrition therapy in the transition between hospital and home and hereby to identify areas for potential improvements.Background. Though the focus on nutritional risk is improving in hospital, there seems to be less effort to maintain or even improve nutritional status after discharge and during the rehabilitation period.Design. Qualitative focus group interviews.Methods. Semistructured focus group interviews with experienced multiprofessional staff from hospital, home care, nursing homes, and general practise. The study was done in the county of Aalborg with about 280.000 inhabitants regarding homecare and general practise as well as Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark.Results. Interviews were generated with 41 professionals from hospital, general practise, and home care. Barriers identified between settings included the following aspects: economic, organisation, and education. The impression of professionals was that few patients are discharged with nutrition therapy, compared to who could benefit from nutrition therapy after discharge. Most often, reasons were a short in-hospital stay and lack of knowledge and interest. Moreover, lack of clinical guidelines throughout all settings, time consumption, lack of transparency regarding economy and workflows, and lack of assistance from experts regarding complicated nutritional problems were identified.Conclusions. Many barriers were found in hospital as well as in the community and general practise. These were most often practical as well as organizational. Improvements of clinical guidelines and instructions and improvement of knowledge and communication at all levels are needed.Relevance to Clinical Practise. This study emphasizes that responsibility needs to be taken for patients whom are still at nutritional risk at discharge, and even before hospitalization. Nurses and doctors in and outside hospital are in need of improved knowledge, standard care plans, and instructions.
Antibacterial Chemical Constituent and Antiseptic Herbal Soap fromSalvinia auriculataAubl.
Authors: Lima Samia , Diaz Gaspar , Diaz Marisa Alves Nogueira
Published: December 2013

The bioassay-guided isolation of the active extract ofSalvinia auriculataAubl. led to the separation of three main compounds, characterized as stigmasterone, stigmasterol, and friedelinol. The pure form of diketosteroid presented a potential antibacterial activity with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 0.01 mg mL−1againstStaphylococcus aureusisolated from animals with mastitis infections. The active extract also showed a similar result to that previously obtained with pure diketosteroid when tested with the same isolates. The present study’s results demonstrate the potential of this plant as an excipient for the production of antibacterial soaps aimed at controlling bovine mastitis infections, especially on small farms.
Solution of Boundary Value Obstacle Problems Using MQ-RBF and IMQ-RBF
Authors: Gao Feng , Chi Chunmei
Published: December 2013

A kind of numerical method which is based on multiquadric RBF, inverse multiquadric RBF, and Wu-Schaback operators is presented for solving second-order and third-order boundary value problems associated with obstacle, unilateral, and contact problems. The algorithms are proved to be highly accurate and easy to implement. Some numerical tests are also presented to show the efficiency of the algorithms.
Blind Deconvolution for Ultrasound Sequences Using a Noninverse Greedy Algorithm
Authors: Chira Liviu-Teodor , Rusu Corneliu , Tauber Clovis , Girault Jean-Marc
Published: December 2013

The blind deconvolution of ultrasound sequences in medical ultrasound technique is still a major problem despite the efforts made. This paper presents a blind noninverse deconvolution algorithm to eliminate the blurring effect, using the envelope of the acquired radio-frequency sequences anda prioriLaplacian distribution for deconvolved signal. The algorithm is executed in two steps. Firstly, the point spread function is automatically estimated from the measured data. Secondly, the data are reconstructed in a nonblind way using proposed algorithm. The algorithm is a nonlinear blind deconvolution which works as a greedy algorithm. The results on simulated signals and real images are compared with different state of the art methods deconvolution. Our method shows good results for scatters detection, speckle noise suppression, and execution time.
Esophageal Cancer, the Topmost Cancer at MTRH in the Rift Valley, Kenya, and Its Potential Risk Factors
Authors: Patel Kirtika , Wakhisi Johnston , Mining Simeon , Mwangi Ann , Patel Radheka
Published: December 2013

Esophageal cancer at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) is the leading cancer in men with a poor prognosis. A case control study(n=159)aimed at the histology type, gender, and risk indicators was carried out at MTRH. Mantel Haenszel chi-square and logistic regression were employed for analysis. Squamous-cell carcinoma was the common histological type occurring in the middle third portion of the oesophagus. The occurrence of the cancer in males was 1.4 times that of females. The mean age was 56.1 yrs. Low socioeconomic, smoking, snuff use, alcohol, tooth loss, cooking with charcoal and firewood, hot beverage, and use ofmursikwere independently associated with esophageal cancer(P<0.05). Using logistic regression adjusted for various factors, alcohol consumption was associated with the increased risk of esophageal cancer. AHR was 0.45 and 95% CI: 0.205–0.985,P=0.046. A societal component of low socioeconomic conditions, a lifestyle component with specific practices such as the consumption ofmursik, chang’aa, busaa, snuff, smoking, hot tea, poor oral hygiene, and an environmental component with potential exposure to high levels of nitrosamines, passive smoking, and cooking with coal, could be involved. The increase in experts at MTRH capable of diagnosing could be responsible for the increase in reporting this neoplasm.
Optical Absorption in Nano-Structures: Classical and Quantum Models
Authors: Kulkarni Anand , Guney Durdu , Vora Ankit
Published: December 2013

In the last decade, nano-structured materials have gained a significant interest for applications in solar cells and other optical and opto-electronic devices. Due to carrier confinement, the absorption characteristics in these structures are quite different from the absorption in bulk materials and thin films. Optical absorption coefficients of a silicon nano-wire are obtained based on a semi-classical model where the photon-electron interaction is described by the interaction of an electromagnetic wave with the electrons in the valence band of a semiconductor. The absorption characteristics showed enhanced optical absorption but no resonant peaks. In our modified model, we have identified optically active inter band transitions by performing electronic structure calculations on unit cells of nano-dimensions. The absorption spectrum obtained here shows explicit excitonic processes. This absorption is tunable from the visible region to near UV portion of the solar spectrum. In our previous work on thin films (100 nm) of ITO, we have used classical Drude model to describe free electron absorption. Using the imaginary part of the calculated complex dielectric function, we have plotted the absorption coefficient versus wavelength of the photon and compared with the experimental data showing good agreement between theory and experiment.
A Numerical Study on the Progressive Failure of 3D Four-Directional Braided Composites
Authors: Xu Kun
Published: December 2013

The complexity of the microstructure makes the strength prediction and failure analysis of 3D braided composites difficult. A new unit cell geometrical model, taken as the representative volume element (RVE), is proposed to describe the yarn configuration of 3D braided composites produced by the four-step 1 × 1 method. Then, based on the periodical boundary conditions, a RVE-based micromechanical model by using the nonlinear finite element method has been presented to predict the progressive damage and the strength of 3D braided composites subjected to tensile loading. The numerical model can simulate the effect of damage accumulation on the tensile stress-strain curve by combining the proposed failure criteria and the stiffness degradation model. The longitudinal shear nonlinearity of braiding yarn is considered in the model. To verify the model, two specimens with typical braiding angles were selected to conduct the simulations. The predicted stress-strain curves by the model compared favorably with the experimental data, demonstrating the applicability of the micromechanical finite element model. The effect of the nonlinear shear parameter on the tensile stress-strain curve was discussed in detail. The results indicate that the tensile mechanical behaviors of 3D braided composites are affected by both the yarn shear nonlinearity and the damage accumulation.
Role of Sugar and Sugar Substitutes in Dental Caries: A Review
Authors: Gupta Prahlad , Gupta Nidhi , Pawar Atish Prakash , Birajdar Smita Shrishail , Natt Amanpreet Singh , Singh Harkanwal Preet
Published: December 2013

Dental caries is a chronic disease which can affect us at any age. The term “caries” denotes both the disease process and its consequences, that is, the damage caused by the disease process. Dental caries has a multifactorial aetiology in which there is interplay of three principal factors: the host (saliva and teeth), the microflora (plaque), and the substrate (diet), and a fourth factor: time. The role of sugar (and other fermentable carbohydrates such as highly refined flour) as a risk factor in the initiation and progression of dental caries is overwhelming. Whether this initial demineralization proceeds to clinically detectable caries or whether the lesion is remineralized by plaque minerals depends on a number of factors, of which the amount and frequency of further sugars consumption are of utmost importance. This paper reviews the role of sugar and sugar substitutes in dental caries.
Biofilm Formation among Clinical and Food Isolates ofListeria monocytogenes
Authors: Barbosa Joana , Borges Sandra , Camilo Ruth , Magalhães Rui , Ferreira Vânia , Santos Isabel , Silva Joana , Almeida Gonçalo , Teixeira Paula
Published: December 2013

Objective. A total of 725Listeria monocytogenesisolates, 607 from various foods and 118 from clinical cases of listeriosis, were investigated concerning their ability to form biofilms, at 4°C during 5 days and at 37°C during 24 h.Methods. Biofilm production was carried out on polystyrene tissue culture plates. FiveL. monocytogenesisolates were tested for biofilm formation after being exposed to acidic and osmotic stress conditions.Results. Significant differences (P<0.01) between clinical and food isolates were observed. At 37°C for 24 h, most food isolates were classified as weak or moderate biofilm formers whereas all the clinical isolates were biofilm producers, although the majority were weak. At 4°C during 5 days, 65 and 59% isolates, from food and clinical cases, respectively, were classified as weak. After both sublethal stresses, at 37°C just one of the five isolates tested was shown to be more sensitive to subsequent acidic exposure. However, at 4°C both stresses did not confer either sensitivity or resistance.Conclusions. Significant differences between isolates origin, temperature, and sublethal acidic stress were observed concerning the ability to form biofilms. Strain, origin, and environmental conditions can determine the level of biofilm production byL. monocytogenesisolates.
Radiobiological Framework for the Evaluation of Stereotactic Radiosurgery Plans for Invasive Brain Tumours
Authors: Sandström Helena , Dasu Alexandru , Toma-Dasu Iuliana
Published: December 2013

This study presents a radiobiological formalism for the evaluation of the treatment plans with respect to the probability of controlling tumours treated with stereotactic radiosurgery accounting for possible infiltrations of malignant cells beyond the margins of the delineated target. Treatments plans devised for three anaplastic astrocytoma cases were assumed for this study representing cases with different difficulties for target coverage. Several scenarios were considered regarding the infiltration patterns. Tumour response was described in terms of tumour control probability (TCP) assuming a Poisson model taking into account the initial number of clonogenic cells and the cell survival. The results showed the strong impact of the pattern of infiltration of tumour clonogens outside the delineated target on the outcome of the treatment. The treatment plan has to take into account the existence of the possible microscopic disease around the visible lesion; otherwise the high gradients around the target effectively prevent the sterilisation of the microscopic spread leading to low probability of control, in spite of the high dose delivered to the target. From this perspective, the proposed framework offers a further criterion for the evaluation of stereotactic radiosurgery plans taking into account the possible infiltration of tumour cells around the visible target.
Estimation of Bottom Friction Coefficients Based on an Isopycnic-Coordinate Internal Tidal Model with Adjoint Method
Authors: Gao Yanqiu , Cao Anzhou , Chen Haibo , Lv Xianqing
Published: December 2013

Based on an isopycnic-coordinate internal tidal model with the adjoint method, three groups of ideal experiments are carried out in order to investigate the estimation of spatially varying bottom friction coefficients (BFCs). In group 1, five values of distance between independent points (DIP) are used to invert the BFCs with the distribution of conical surface. Results show that the BFCs can be inverted successfully with independent point scheme and the strategy with a DIP of 50′ can yield the best results. In group 2, five values of interpolation radius (IR) are used to invert the BFCs with the distribution of conical surface. Results show that the strategy with an IR of 1.9 times of DIP can yield the best results. Based on the results of the first two groups, group 3 adopts the optimal DIP and IR to estimate 4 kinds of spatially varying BFCs. The results indicate that the isopycnic-coordinate internal tidal model with the adjoint method has a good ability to estimate the spatially varying BFCs; the inversion results of the BFCs with the distribution of revolution paraboloid are better than those with the distribution of conical surface.
Investigating the Effect of Lignosulfonate on Erosion Rate of the Embankments Constructed with Clayey Sand
Authors: Koohpeyma Hamid Reza , Vakili Amir Hossein , Moayedi Hossein , Panjsetooni Alireza , Nazir Ramli
Published: December 2013

Internal erosion is known as the most important cause of dam failure after overtopping. It is important to improve the erosion resistance of the erodible soil by selecting an effective technique along with the reasonable costs. To prevent internal erosion of embankment dams the use of chemical stabilizers that reduce the soil erodibility potential is highly recommended. In the present study, a lignin‐based chemical, known as lignosulfonate, is used to improve the erodibility of clayey sand specimen. The clayey sand was tested in various hydraulic heads in terms of internal erosion in its natural state as well as when it is mixed with the different percentages of lignosulfonate. The results show that erodibility of collected clayey sand is very high and is dramatically reduced by adding lignosulfonate. Adding 3% of lignosulfonate to clayey sand can reduce the coefficient of soil erosion from 0.01020 to 0.000017. It is also found that the qualitative erodibility of stabilized soil with 3% lignosulfonate is altered from the group of extremely rapid to the group of moderately slow.
From (Un)Willingness to InvolveMENt: Development of a Successful Study Brand for Recruitment of Diverse MSM to a Longitudinal HIV Research
Authors: Frew Paula M. , Williams Victoria A. , Shapiro Eve T. , Sanchez Travis , Rosenberg Eli S. , Fenimore Vincent L. , Sullivan Patrick S.
Published: December 2013

Background. HIV continues to be a major concern among MSM, yet Black MSM have not been enrolled in HIV research studies in proportionate numbers to White MSM. We developed an HIV prevention research brand strategy for MSM. Methods. Questionnaires and focus groups were conducted with 54 participants. Descriptive statistics and chi-square analyses were performed and qualitative data were transcribed and content analyzed to identify common themes. Results. Formative research results indicated that younger Black MSM (18–29 years) were less likely to think about joining prevention studies compared to older (≥30 years) Black MSM (x2=5.92, P=0.015). Qualitative and quantitative results indicate four prominent themes related to brand development: (1) communication sources (message deliverer), (2) message (impact of public health messaging on perceptions of HIV research), (3) intended audience (underlying issues that influence personal relevance of HIV research), and (4) communication channels (reaching intended audiences). Conclusion. The findings highlight the importance of behavioral communication translational research to effectively engage hard-to-reach populations. Despite reservations, MSM in our formative study expressed a need for active involvement and greater education to facilitate their engagement in HIV prevention research. Thus, the brand concept of “InvolveMENt” emerged.
Dynamic Characteristics Study with Multidegree-of-Freedom Coupling in TBM Cutterhead System Based on Complex Factors
Authors: Sun Wei , Ling Jingxiu , Huo Junzhou , Guo Li , Zhang Xu , Deng Liying
Published: December 2013

A multidegree-of-freedom coupling dynamic model, which contains a joint cutterhead, an inner ring gear, a support shield body, and pinions, is established, considering the external stochastic excitations, time-varying meshing stiffness, transmission errors, clearance, and so forth. Based on the parameters of an actual project and the strong impact of external excitations, the modal properties and dynamic responses are analyzed, and the cutterhead joint surface loads are obtained and treated by rain flow count. Numerical results indicate that the low natural frequencies are 57 Hz and 61 Hz, and natural vibration modes are pinions-motors rotational mode and translational-overturning coupled mode of cutterhead with inner ring gear correspondingly. Besides, the axial and radial amplitude of dynamic responses are 0.55 mm and 0.25 mm, respectively. The frequencies of radial, torsional, and overturning vibrations are predominantly concentrated in 112 Hz and 120 Hz, which indicates that the vibration responses of cutterhead are mainly affected by the external excitations. Finally, as the rain-flow counting results have shown, the standard deviation of the cutterhead joint surface loads in each direction increases by 12–15 times, compared with that of the external excitations; therefore inertia effect should be considered in cutterhead design. The proposed research lays a foundation for dynamic performance optimization and fatigue crack growth life assessment of cutterhead structure.
Stability Analysis of Distributed Order Fractional Chen System
Authors: Aminikhah H. , Refahi Sheikhani A. , Rezazadeh H.
Published: December 2013

We first investigate sufficient and necessary conditions of stability of nonlinear distributed order fractional system and then we generalize the integer‐order Chen system into the distributed order fractional domain. Based on the asymptotic stability theory of nonlinear distributed order fractional systems, the stability of distributed order fractional Chen system is discussed. In addition, we have found
that chaos exists in the double fractional order Chen system. Numerical solutions are used to verify the analytical results.
Application of Wedges for the Reduction of the Space and Time-Dependent Harmonic Content in Squirrel-Cage Induction Motors
Authors: Gyftakis Konstantinos N. , Panagiotou Panagiotis A. , Kappatou Joya C.
Published: December 2013

The influence of the semimagnetic stator wedges of different sizes on the electromagnetic characteristics and the behavior of the induction motor is investigated. The study will be carried out with both analytical calculations and FEM analysis. The analytical calculations will take into account the stator and rotor slots, as well as the iron core saturation in order to study the spatial and time-dependent harmonic content of the air-gap magnetic flux density and electromagnetic torque. The size of the wedge plays an important role as it determines the tooth tips saturation, the high harmonic content of the air-gap magnetic flux density, and the electromagnetic characteristics of the induction motor.
Supraclavicular Artery Flap for Head and Neck Oncologic Reconstruction: An Emerging Alternative
Authors: Shenoy Ashok , Patil Vijayraj S. , Prithvi B. S. , Chavan P. , Halkud Rajshekar
Published: December 2013

Aim. Head and Neck oncologic resections often leave complex defects which are challenging to reconstruct. The need of the hour is a versatile flap which has the advantages of both a regional flap (viz. reliable and easy to harvest) and a free flap (thin, pliable with good colour match). In this a study we assessed the usefulness of the supraclavicular artery flap in head and neck oncologic defects.Materials and Method. The flap was used as a pedicled fasciocutanous and was based on the transverse supraclavicular artery. We assessed this reconstructive option for complications as well as its and functional out comes.Results. Eleven cases underwent supraclavicular artery flap between 20011-2012 of which 5 were males and 6 females. Mean defect size was 5 cm × 6 cm. Nine donor sites were closed primarily and 1 required split skin grafting. We encountered one complete flap loss which was attributed to a band of constricting skin bridge over the vascular pedicle in a defect involving lateral third of midface. Two patient developed pharyngeocutaneous fistula (without flap loss) out of 3 patients who underwent augmentation pharyngoplasty post Near total laryngectomy.Conclusion. Supra clavicular artery flap is a thin versatile, reliable, easy to harvest, with good cosmetic and functional outcome at both ends (recipient and donor) for reconstructing head and neck oncologic defects.
Comparative Analysis of Normal versus Fetal Growth Restriction in Pregnancy: The Significance of Maternal Body Mass Index, Nutritional Status, Anemia, and Ultrasonography Screening
Authors: Sawant Laxmichaya D. , Venkat Shirin
Published: December 2013

Fetal growth restriction or intrauterine growth restriction is one of the leading causes of perinatal mortality and morbidity in newborns. Fetal growth restriction is a complex multifactorial condition resulting from several fetal and maternal disorders. The objective of this study was twofold: first to examine the correlation between maternal parameters such as body mass index (BMI), nutritional status, anemia, and placental weight and diameter, and their effects on fetal growth and then to evaluate the effect of early screening by ultrasonography (USG) on the outcome of growth restricted pregnancies. In this study, 53 cases of fetal growth restriction were compared to 53 normal fetuses delivered in consecutive sequence. Growth restricted fetuses were delivered earlier in gestation, when compared with normal growth fetuses. Maternal anemia and malnutrition have significant association with the fetal growth restriction. Maternal anthropometry, such as low BMI, had effects on placental diameter and weight, which, in turn, adversely affected fetal weight. Thus, early USG screening along with robust screening for maternal BMI, nutritional status, and anemia can assist the obstetric team in providing early diagnosis, prompt intervention, and better outcome in pregnancy with fetal growth restriction.
Unusual Presentation of Vivax Malaria with Anaemia, Thrombocytopenia, Jaundice, Renal Disturbance, and Melena: A Report from Malang, a Nonendemic Area in Indonesia
Authors: Fitri Loeki Enggar , Sardjono Teguh Wahju , Hermansyah Bagus , Candradikusuma Didi , Berens-Riha Nicole
Published: December 2013

Most of the complications of malaria such as anaemia, thrombocytopenia, jaundice, and renal failure are commonly found inPlasmodium falciparummalaria, but the incidence of severe and complicated vivax malaria tends to be increasing. We report two cases of severePlasmodium vivaxmalaria from Malang, a nonendemic area in Indonesia. Patients exhibited anaemia, thrombocytopenia, jaundice, renal disturbance, and melena. Microscopic peripheral blood examination and amplification of parasite 18s rRNA by polymerase chain reaction showed the presence ofP. vivaxand absence ofP. falciparum. All patients responded well to antimalarial drugs.
Canine Angiostrongylosis in Naturally Infected Dogs: Clinical Approach and Monitoring of Infection after Treatment
Authors: Paradies Paola , Schnyder Manuela , Capogna Antonio , Lia Riccardo Paolo , Sasanelli Mariateresa
Published: December 2013

Canine angiostrongylosis is an increasingly reported disease in Europe which can be fatal if left untreated. The wide range of clinical presentation along with the absence of pathognomonic alterations can make the diagnosis challenging; thus any additional information that may provide clues to an early diagnosis may be of value, in order to ensure adequate anthelmintic treatment. Aim of the study was to assess a clinicopathological scoring system associated with natural Angiostrongylus vasorum infection diagnosed in canine patients during clinical practice, to clinically and paraclinically monitor infected dogs after treatment, and to monitor the presence of L1 larvae in faecal samples by Baermann′s test. Of the total 210 enrolled animals A. vasorum infection was diagnosed in 7 dogs. These dogs were clinically and paraclinically investigated and monitored after specific treatment. Further 3 symptomatic dogs were retrospectively included in the monitoring. Results suggest that the computed scoring system can help to increase the clinical suspicion of infection particularly in asymptomatic dogs before the onset of potentially lethal lesions. Data of faecal monitoring suggested that treatment may control parasite burden but be unable to eradicate infection. Thus, a continued faecal monitoring after treatment is advisable for identification of still infected or reinfected dogs.
Rank 1 Decompositions of Symmetric Tensors Outside a Fixed Support
Authors: Ballico E.
Published: December 2013

Let νd:ℙm→ℙn, n:=(n+dn)-1, denote the degree d Veronese embedding of ℙm. For any P∈ℙn, let sr(P) be the minimal cardinality of S⊂νd(ℙm) such that P∈〈S〉. Identifying P with a homogeneous polynomial q (or a symmetric tensor), S corresponds to writing q as a sum of ♯(S) powers Ld with L a linear form (or as a sum of ♯(S) d-powers of vectors). Here we fix an integral variety T⊊ℙm and P∈〈νd(T)〉 and study a similar decomposition with S⊈T and ♯(S) minimal. For instance, if T is a linear subspace, then we prove that ♯(S)≥♯(S∩T)+d+1 and classify all (S,P) such that ♯(S)-♯(S∩T)≤2d-1.
Age at First Use of Alcohol and Risk of Heavy Alcohol Use: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Liang Wenbin , Chikritzhs Tanya
Published: December 2013

Aim. To examine the association between age at first alcohol use and risk of heavy alcohol use among the adult US general drinking population.Methods. This population-based study used the 2010 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) from United States. Multivariate Poisson regression was employed to predict the frequency of heavy alcohol use (five or more drinks per occasion) in the last 30 days with age at first use of alcohol controlling for potential confounding factors.Results. Younger age at first use of alcohol was associated with increased likelihood of heavy alcohol use in the last 30 days in this population-based sample. This association remained significant when analysis was reperformed for the subgroup of participants who were with desired good health status and Kessler score lower than 12.Conclusion. Younger age at first use of alcohol was associated with increased likelihood of heavy alcohol use.
Research and Development of Hybrid Electric Vehicles CAN-Bus Data Monitor and Diagnostic System through OBD-II and Android-Based Smartphones
Authors: Yang Yalian , Chen Baolin , Su Lin , Qin Datong
Published: December 2013

With the rapid development of the smartphone market, future cars seem to have more connections with intelligent cell phone and Internet. Intelligent transportation system (ITS) and telematics system have become research focus in recent years. There is an increasing demand for remote monitoring and diagnostic system as the further research of hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) goes on. In this paper, a remote controller area network bus (CAN-Bus) data monitor and diagnostic system for HEV is presented using on board diagnostic version-II (OBD-II) and Android-based smartphone. It is low-cost, convenient, and extensible with smartphone used in the system to realize communication with ELM327 and remote monitoring center wirelessly. The prototype of client and server is developed in Java language, and it is proved by the test that the system works stably and the collected data have practical values.
Y‐Doped ZnO Nanorods by Hydrothermal Method and Their Acetone Gas Sensitivity
Authors: Yu Peng , Wang Jing , Du Hai-ying , Yao Peng-jun , Hao Yuwen , Li Xiao-gan
Published: December 2013

Pure and yttrium‐ (Y‐) doped (1 at%, 3 at%, and 7 at%) ZnO nanorods were synthesized using a hydrothermal process. The crystallography and microstructure of the synthesized samples were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). Comparing with pure ZnO nanorods, Y‐doped ZnO exhibited improved acetone sensing properties. The response of 1 at% Y‐doped ZnO nanorods to 100 ppm acetone is larger than that of pure ZnO nanorods. The response and recovery times of 1 at% Y‐doped ZnO nanorods to 100 ppm acetone are about 30 s and 90 s, respectively. The gas sensor based on Y‐doped ZnO nanorods showed good selectivity to acetone in the interfere gases of ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, and methanol. The formation mechanism of the ZnO nanorods was briefly analyzed.
Failure Behavior and Constitutive Model of Weakly Consolidated Soft Rock
Authors: Wang Wei-ming , Zhao Zeng-hui , Wang Yong-ji , Gao Xin
Published: December 2013

Mining areas in western China are mainly located in soft rock strata with poor bearing capacity. In order to make the deformation failure mechanism and strength behavior of weakly consolidated soft mudstone and coal rock hosted in Ili No. 4 mine of Xinjiang area clear, some uniaxial and triaxial compression tests were carried out according to the samples of rocks gathered in the studied area, respectively. Meanwhile, a damage constitutive model which considered the initial damage was established by introducing a damage variable and a correction coefficient. A linearization process method was introduced according to the characteristics of the fitting curve and experimental data. The results showed that samples under different moisture contents and confining pressures presented completely different failure mechanism. The given model could accurately describe the elastic and plastic yield characteristics as well as the strain softening behavior of collected samples at postpeak stage. Moreover, the model could precisely reflect the relationship between the elastic modulus and confining pressure at prepeak stage.
Replacement of Missing Anterior Teeth in a Patient with Chronic Mouth Breathing and Tongue Thrusting
Authors: Haralur Satheesh B. , Al-Qahtani Ali Saad
Published: December 2013

The loss of anterior teeth has serious functional, esthetic disabilities, in addition to compromising the patients' quality of life. Various etiologies can be attributed to the anterior tooth loss, including trauma, caries, and periodontal diseases. The chronic mouth breathing due to nasal adenoids is known to enhance the gingival and periodontal diseases. The dental literature proves the association of nasal breathing, tongue thrusting, and anterior open bite. Arch shape and tooth position are primarily determined by the equilibrium of the forces from tongue and perioral musculature. Increased force from tongue musculature in the tongue thrusting patient leads to flaring of anterior teeth, making them susceptible for periodontal and traumatic tooth loss. Replacement of the anterior teeth in this patient will also help in restoration of anterior guidance, which is critical for the health of temporomandibular joint, posterior teeth, and musculature.
Missed Lung Cancers on the Scout View: Do We Look Every Time?
Authors: Nazir Sarfraz Ahmed , Benamore Rachel , Gleeson Fergus
Published: December 2013

Scout views are digital radiographs obtained to aid planning of the subsequent computed tomography (CT) examination. Review of these scout views may provide additional information not demonstrated on the axial images, but such reviews may not necessarily be performed routinely, especially in the context of abdominopelvic CT studies. We illustrate the value of the scout images by presenting a series of representative cases of missed pulmonary neoplasms in five patients who originally underwent such examinations.
Comparison of Postoperative Analgesic Effect of Dexamethasone and Fentanyl Added to Lidocaine through Axillary Block in Forearm Fracture
Authors: Yaghoobi Siamak , Seddighi Mahyar , Yazdi Zohreh , Ghafouri Razieh , Khezri Marzieh Beigom
Published: December 2013

Aim. Regional analgesia has been introduced as better analgesic technique compared to using systemic analgesic agents, and it may decrease the adverse effects of them and increase the degree of satisfaction. Several additives have been suggested to enhance analgesic effect of local anesthetic agents such as opioids and steroids. We designed this randomized double-blind controlled study to compare the analgesic efficacy of the dexamethasone and fentanyl added to lidocaine using axillary block in patients undergoing operation of forearm fracture. Materials and Methods. Seventy-eight patients 20–60 years old were recruited in a prospective, double-blinded, randomized way. Axillary block was performed in the three groups by using 40 mL lidocaine and 2 mL distilled water (L group), 40 mL lidocaine and 2 mL dexamethasone (LD group), and 40 mL lidocaine and 2 mL fentanyl (LF group). The onset time of sensory and motor block, duration of sensory and motor block, the total analgesic dose administered during 6 hours after the surgery, and hemodynamic variables were recorded. Results. The duration of sensory and motor block was significantly longer in LD group compared to other groups (P<0.001). Similarly, the total analgesic consumption in LD group was smaller compared to other groups (P<0.001). Comparison of hemodynamic consequences of axillary block and surgery failed to reveal any statistically significant differences between all groups. Conclusion. Addition of dexamethasone to lidocaine significantly prolonged the duration of analgesia compared with fentanyl/lidocaine mixture or lidocaine alone using axillary block in patients undergoing forearm fracture surgery. This trial is registered with IRCT2012120711687N1.
Expression Analysis of Sugarcane Aquaporin Genes under Water Deficit
Authors: da Silva Manassés Daniel , Silva Roberta Lane de Oliveira , Costa Ferreira Neto José Ribamar , Guimarães Ana Carolina Ribeiro , Veiga Daniela Truffi , Chabregas Sabrina Moutinho , Burnquist William Lee , Kahl Günter , Benko-Iseppon Ana Maria , Kido Ederson Akio
Published: December 2013

The present work is a pioneer study specifically addressing the aquaporin transcripts in sugarcane transcriptomes. Representatives of the four aquaporin subfamilies (PIP, TIP, SIP, and NIP), already described for higher plants, were identified. Forty-two distinct aquaporin isoforms were expressed in four HT-SuperSAGE libraries from sugarcane roots of drought-tolerant and -sensitive genotypes, respectively. At least 10 different potential aquaporin isoform targets and their respective unitags were considered to be promising for future studies and especially for the development of molecular markers for plant breeding. From those 10 isoforms, four (SoPIP2-4,SoPIP2-6,OsPIP2-4, andSsPIP1-1) showed distinct responses towards drought, with divergent expressions between the bulks from tolerant and sensitive genotypes, when they were compared under normal and stress conditions. Two targets (SsPIP1-1 andSoPIP1-3/PIP1-4) were selected for validation via RT-qPCR and their expression patterns as detected by HT-SuperSAGE were confirmed. The employed validation strategy revealed that different genotypes share the same tolerant or sensitive phenotype, respectively, but may use different routes for stress acclimation, indicating the aquaporin transcription in sugarcane to be potentially genotype-specific.