bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noble metal nanoparticle-decorated TiO2 nanobelts for enhanced photocatalysis
Authors: He Haiyan , Yang Ping , Jia Changchao , Miao Yanping , Zhao Jie , Du Yingying
Published: July 2014

TiO 2 nanobelts have been fabricated through a hydrothermal method and subsequently sulfuric-acid-corrosion-treated for a rough surface. Noble metal nanoparticles such as Ag and Au were deposited on the coarse surface of TiO 2 nanobelts via a coprecipitation procedure. Ag – TiO 2 nanobelts were prepared in ethanolic solution contained silver nitrate ( AgNO 3) and sodium hydroxide ( NaOH ). Au – TiO 2 nanobelts were obtained in chloroauric acid ( HAuCl 4) using sodium borohydride ( NaBH 4) as the reductant. It is confirmed by the results of XRD patterns together with the SEM images that the composite of noble metal and TiO 2 nanobelts were obtained successfully and the Ag or Au nanoparticles were well-dispersed on the TiO 2 nanobelts. Moreover, the as-prepared Ag and Au nanoparticle-decorated TiO 2 nanobelts represent an enhanced photocatalytic activity compared with pure TiO 2 nanobelts, which is due to the fact that the Ag and Au nanoparticles on the surface of TiO 2 nanobelts act as sinks for the photogenerated electrons and promote the separation of the electrons and holes.
ENGINEERING OF SURFACE FUNCTIONALITY ONTO POLYSTYRENE MICROCARRIERS FOR THE ATTACHMENT AND GROWTH OF HUMAN ENDOTHELIAL CELLS
Authors: XIONG GORDON M. , FOORD JOHN S. , GRIFFITHS JON-PAUL , PARKER EMILY M. , MOLONEY MARK G. , CHOONG CLEO
Published: July 2014

This work reports the effects of introducing diverse chemical functionalities onto the surface of polystyrene microcarrier beads on their ability to function as injectable cell carriers. Cellular adhesion and proliferation, as well as cellular outgrowths from microcarrier surfaces, using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), were examined in detail. It was observed that initial cell adhesion appeared to be most significantly decreased by hydrophobicity, whilst cell proliferation appeared to be improved in most chemical functional groups over unmodified polystyrene. Overall, our study highlights the importance of surface chemistry in directing the growth and function of human endothelial cells.
Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 activation in podocytes promotes cellular crescent formation
Authors: Mao Junhua , Zeng Zhifeng , Xu Zhuo , Li Jiangzhong , Jiang Lei , Fang Yi , Xu Xianlin , Hu Zhangxue , He Weichun , Yang Junwei , Dai Chunsun
Published: July 2014

Podocytes play a key role in the formation of cellular crescents in experimental and human diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms for podocytes in promoting crescent formation need further investigation. Here, we demonstrated that mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling was remarkably activated and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) 1α expression was largely induced in cellular crescents from patients with crescentic glomerular diseases. Specific deletion of Tsc1 in podocytes led to mTORC1 activation in podocytes and kidney dysfunction in mice. Interestingly, 33 of 36 knockouts developed cellular or mixed cellular and fibrous crescents at 7 wk of age (14.19 ± 3.86% of total glomeruli in knockouts vs. 0% in control littermates, n = 12–36, P = 0.04). All of the seven knockouts developed crescents at 12 wk of age (30.92 ± 11.961% of total glomeruli in knockouts vs. 0% in control littermates, n = 4–7, P = 0.002). Most notably, bridging cells between the glomerular tuft and the parietal basement membrane as well as the cellular crescents were immunostaining positive for WT1, p-S6, HIF1α, and Cxcr4. Furthermore, continuously administrating rapamycin starting at 7 wk of age for 5 wk abolished crescents as well as the induction of p-S6, HIF1α, and Cxcr4 in the glomeruli from the knockouts. Together, it is concluded that mTORC1 activation in podocytes promotes cellular crescent formation, and targeting this signaling may shed new light on the treatment of patients with crescentic glomerular diseases.
Selection of Key Component Vendor from the Aspects of Capability, Productivity, and Reliability
Authors: Yu Vincent F. , Kuo Catherine W. , Dat Luu Quoc
Published: July 2014

In a technology‐driven industry, the appropriate vendors/suppliers can effectively contribute to cobusiness development profits. Key component vendors help dynamically drive solution design firms to achieve strong performances, especially when an integrated circuit (IC) component that has technical know‐how specifications dominates an electronic solution design. This paper presents a systematic framework to examine the decision process for the selection of wireless fidelity (Wi‐Fi) IC vendor alternatives from the business ecosystem aspect in order to review the importance of buyer‐supplier synergistic effects. We implement the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process technique which incorporates a vendor’s capability, productivity, and reliability characteristics into a hierarchical structure and deploys decision experts’ judgments along with vague data analysis to solve a real‐world problem faced by a leading company specialized in the research and design of wireless networking solutions. The findings indicate the Taiwanese local vendor is the top priority for alternatives selection, and the results contribute significant values to the design firm’s operation management.
A New Uncertainty Evaluation Method and Its Application in Evaluating Software Quality
Authors: Chen Jiqiang , Ma Litao , Wang Chao , Zhang Hong , Wan Jie
Published: July 2014

Uncertainty theory is a branch of axiomatic mathematics dealing with experts’ belief degree. Considering the uncertainty with experts’ belief degree in the evaluation system and the different roles which different indices play in evaluating the overall goal with a hierarchical structure, a new comprehensive evaluation method is constructed based on uncertainty theory. First, index scores and weights of indices are described by uncertain variables and evaluation grades are described by uncertain sets. Second, weights of indices with respect to the overall goal are introduced. Third, a new uncertainty comprehensive evaluation method is constructed and proved to be a generalization of the weighted average method. Finally, an application is developed in evaluating software quality, which shows the effectiveness of the new method.
Improved Data Transmission Scheme of Network Coding Based on Access Point Optimization in VANET
Authors: Yang Zhe , Li Lingzhi , Yao Wenqiang , Xu Kaisheng , Tang Dongxin
Published: July 2014

VANET is a hot spot of intelligent transportation researches. For vehicle users, the file sharing and content distribution through roadside access points (AP) as well as the vehicular ad hoc networks (VANET) have been an important complement to that cellular network. So the AP deployment is one of the key issues to improve the communication performance of VANET. In this paper, an access point optimization method is proposed based on particle swarm optimization algorithm. The transmission performances of the routing protocol with random linear network coding before and after the access point optimization are analyzed. The simulation results show the optimization model greatly affects the VANET transmission performances based on network coding, and it can enhance the delivery rate by 25% and 14% and reduce the average delay of transmission by 38% and 33%.
Acinetobacter baumanniiInfection in Prior ICU Bed Occupants Is an Independent Risk Factor for Subsequent Cases of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia
Authors: Tsakiridou Eirini , Makris Demosthenes , Daniil Zoe , Manoulakas Efstratios , Chatzipantazi Vasiliki , Vlachos Odysseas , Xidopoulos Grigorios , Charalampidou Olympia , Zakynthinos Epaminondas
Published: July 2014

Objective. We aimed to evaluate risk factors for ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) due toAcinetobacter baumannii(AbVAP) in critically ill patients.Methods. This was a prospective observational study conducted in an intensive care unit (ICU) of a district hospital (6 beds). Consecutive patients were eligible for enrolment if they required mechanical ventilation for>48 hours and hospitalization for>72 hours. Clinical, microbiological, and laboratory parameters were assessed as risk factors for AbVAP by univariate and multivariate analysis.Results. 193 patients were included in the study. Overall, VAP incidence was 23.8% and AbVAP, 11.4%. Previous hospitalization of another patient withAcinetobacter baumanniiinfection was the only independent risk factor for AbVAP (OR (95% CI) 12.016 (2.282–19.521)P<0.001). ICU stay(25±17versus12±9   P<0.001), the incidence of other infections (OR (95% CI) 9.485 (1.640–10.466)P=0.002)(urinary tract infection, catheter related infection, and bacteremia), or sepsis (OR (95% CI) 10.400 (3.749–10.466)P<0.001)were significantly increased in patients with AbVAP compared to patients without VAP; no difference was found with respect to ICU mortality.Conclusion. ICU admission or the hospitalization of patients infected byAcinetobacter baumanniiincreases the risk of AbVAP by subsequent patients.
Multiobjective Transmission Network Planning considering the Uncertainty and Correlation of Wind Power
Authors: Hu Yuan , Bie Zhaohong , Lin Yanling , Ning Guangtao , Chen Mingfan , Gao Yujie
Published: July 2014

In order to consider the uncertainty and correlation of wind power in multiobjective transmission network expansion planning (TNEP), this paper presents an extended point-estimation method to calculate the probabilistic power flow, based on which the correlative power outputs of wind farm are sampled and the uncertain multiobjective transmission network planning model is transformed into a solvable deterministic model. A modified epsilon multiobjective evolutionary algorithm is used to solve the above model and a well-distributed Pareto front is achieved, and then the final planning scheme can be obtained from the set of nondominated solutions by a fuzzy satisfied method. The proposed method only needs the first four statistical moments and correlation coefficients of the output power of wind farms as input information; the modeling of wind power is more precise by considering the correlation between wind farms, and it can be easily combined with the multiobjective transmission network planning model. Besides, as the self-adaptive probabilities of crossover and mutation are adopted, the global search capabilities of the proposed algorithm can be significantly improved while the probability of being stuck in the local optimum is effectively reduced. The accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method are validated by IEEE 24 as well as a real system.
RSS Localization Algorithm Based on Nonline of Sight Identification for Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Wang Yan , Cheng Long , Han Guangjie , Wu Hao , Jiang Bing
Published: July 2014

Localization is a key issue for wireless sensor network. The traditional localization methods achieve high location accuracy using received signal strength (RSS) in line of sight (LOS) environment. But the localization accuracy degrades significantly in nonline of sight (NLOS) environment. So the localization in NLOS environment is one of the most challenging for wireless sensor network. In this paper, we propose an RSS based localization algorithm in NLOS environment. A NLOS identification algorithm is firstly proposed. This algorithm does not need the parameters of the NLOS in prior. Then we correct the NLOS measurements by subtracting the mean of NLOS errors. Finally, the Kalman filter is employed to mitigate the process noise. In simulations, we demonstrate that the proposed algorithm achieves higher localization accuracy compared with other methods.
A Novel Analytical Technique to Obtain Kink Solutions for Higher Order Nonlinear Fractional Evolution Equations
Authors: Ul Hassan Qazi Mahmood , Ahmad Jamshad , Shakeel Muhammad
Published: July 2014

We use the fractional derivatives in Caputo’s sense to construct exact solutions to fractional fifth order nonlinear evolution equations. A generalized fractional complex transform is appropriately used to convert this equation to ordinary differential equation which subsequently resulted in a number of exact solutions.
Existence of Weak Solutions for Nonlinear Time-Fractionalp-Laplace Problems
Authors: Qiu Meilan , Mei Liquan
Published: July 2014

The existence of weak solution forp-Laplace problem is studied in the paper. By exploiting the relationship between the Nehari manifold and fibering maps and combining the compact imbedding theorem and the behavior of Palais-Smale sequences in the Nehari manifold, the existence of weak solutions is established. By means of the Arzela-Ascoli fixed point theorem, some existence results of the corresponding time-fractional equations of thep-Laplace problem are obtained.
Data Aggregation and Routing Guidance with QoS Guarantee in VANETs
Authors: Feng Cheng , Li Zhijun , Jiang Shouxu , Zhang Rui
Published: July 2014

Data aggregation is a useful technology that can decrease the communication bandwidth cost in the process of data gathering in VANETs. However, data aggregation may lose some data accuracy. Current data aggregation schemes in VANETs only consider saving bandwidth cost while ignoring the application requirement, which may result in the inaccuracy of aggregated data for dynamic routing application. Therefore, we propose a framework in which application demands are considered in the process of data aggregation to ensure the accuracy of aggregated data for dynamic routing application. The framework consists of three parts: extracting QoI constraints of aggregated data, distributing the QoI-based data gathering queries, routing and aggregating data with QoI constraints. First, we propose average allocation method to handle the demand of single user and utilize convex optimization to handle multiuser demands. Then, we distribute the QUERY message with QoI constraints in the interested area. Last, we propose QoI-DG protocol to do two kinds of data aggregation operation, namely, AVERAGE aggregation and HISTOGRAM aggregation. Simulation experiments show that our proposed method can increase about 20 percent in the collected data rate and save 15 percent communication bandwidth cost in the process of data gathering in VANETs.
Accuracy Improvement Capability of Advanced Projectile Based on Course Correction Fuze Concept
Authors: Elsaadany Ahmed , Wen-jun Yi
Published: July 2014

Improvement in terminal accuracy is an important objective for future artillery projectiles. Generally it is often associated with range extension. Various concepts and modifications are proposed to correct the range and drift of artillery projectile like course correction fuze. The course correction fuze concepts could provide an attractive and cost-effective solution for munitions accuracy improvement. In this paper, the trajectory correction has been obtained using two kinds of course correction modules, one is devoted to range correction (drag ring brake) and the second is devoted to drift correction (canard based-correction fuze). The course correction modules have been characterized by aerodynamic computations and flight dynamic investigations in order to analyze the effects on deflection of the projectile aerodynamic parameters. The simulation results show that the impact accuracy of a conventional projectile using these course correction modules can be improved. The drag ring brake is found to be highly capable for range correction. The deploying of the drag brake in early stage of trajectory results in large range correction. The correction occasion time can be predefined depending on required correction of range. On the other hand, the canard based-correction fuze is found to have a higher effect on the projectile drift by modifying its roll rate. In addition, the canard extension induces a high-frequency incidence angle as canards reciprocate at the roll motion.
Stabilization of a Class of Stochastic Systems with Time Delays
Authors: Wang Jian , Li Cuixia
Published: July 2014

The problem of exponential stability is investigated for a class of stochastic time-delay systems. By using the decomposition technique and Lyapunov stability theory, two improved exponential stability criteria are derived. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness and the benefit of the proposed method.
Global Asymptotic Stability for Linear Fractional Difference Equation
Authors: Brett A. , Janowski E. J. , Kulenović M. R. S.
Published: July 2014

Consider the difference equation xn+1=(α+∑i=0kaixn-i)/(β+∑i=0kbixn-i),  n=0,1,…, where all parameters α,β,ai,bi,  i=0,1,…,k, and the initial conditions xi,  i∈{-k,…,0} are nonnegative real numbers. We investigate the asymptotic behavior of the solutions of the considered equation. We give easy-to-check conditions for the global stability and global asymptotic stability of the zero or positive equilibrium of this equation.
Analysis of Asymmetry of the Forces Applied on the Lower Limb in Subjects with Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Zahraee Maryam Hassan , Karimi Mohammad Taghi , Mostamand Javid , Fatoye Francis
Published: July 2014

Objective. Several studies have investigated asymmetry and loading patterns in different spine pathologies, motor disorders, and other conditions; there is a lack of knowledge on these aspects in chronic low back pain (CLBP). The aim of this study was to analyse asymmetry and loading patterns in patients with nonspecific chronic low back pain (NCLBP) compared to normal individuals, during walking.Method. Forty participants (20 healthy subjects and 20 patients with NCLBP) participated in the study. Asymmetry of the force was measured based on the Asymmetry Index (ASI). The difference in the mean values of all data between the two groups was examined using the independentt-test.Results. The mean value of the first peak of ground reaction force of normal subjects was1.02±0.0354 N/BW compared to1.038±0.099 N/BW in NCLBP patientsP=0.25and0.1004±0.036 N/BW mediolateral force applied on the leg in normal subjects compared to0.089±0.022 N/BW in NCLBP patientsP=0.214. The Asymmetry Index (ASI) of the first peak of vertical force was2.59%±1.89%and3.88%±2.94%for NCLBP and normal subjects, respectively,P= 0.2.Conclusion. Therefore, it can be concluded that NCLBP subjects follow avoidance-endurance model without any limitation during walking.
The Effects of Housing on Health and Health Risks in an Aging Population: A Qualitative Study in Rural Thailand
Authors: Somrongthong Ratana , Dullyaperadis Saovalux , Wulff Anne Louise , Ward Paul R.
Published: July 2014

Background. Over the last decade, Thailand has experienced an aging population, especially in rural areas. Research finds a strong, positive relationship between good quality housing and health, and this paper assesses the impact and living experience of housing of older people in rural Thailand.Methods. This was a mixed-method study, using data from observations of the physical adequacy of housing, semistructured interviews with key informants, and archival information from health records for 13 households in rural Thailand.Results. There were four main themes, each of which led to health risks for the older people: “lighting and unsafe wires,” “house design and composition,” “maintenance of the house,” and “health care equipment.” The housing was not appropriately designed to accommodate health care equipment or to fully support individual daily activities of older people. Numerous accidents occurred as a direct result of inadequate housing and the majority of houses had insufficient and unsafe lighting, floor surfaces and furniture that created health risks, and toilets or beds that were at an unsuitable height for older people.Conclusion. This paper provides an improved and an important understanding of the housing situation among older people living in rural areas in Thailand.
Strongly Nonlinear Transverse Perturbations in Phononic Crystals
Authors: Nikitenkova S. , Pelinovsky E.
Published: July 2014

The dynamics of the surface heterogeneities formation in low-dimensional phononic crystals is studied. It is shown that phononic transverse perturbations in this medium are highly nonlinear. They can be described with the help of the Riemann wave and may form stable wave structures of the finite amplitude. The Riemann wave deformation is described analytically. The Riemann wave time existence up to the beginning of the gradient catastrophe is calculated.
Hermite Wavelet Method for Fractional Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Saeed Umer , ur Rehman Mujeeb
Published: July 2014

We proposed a method by utilizing method of steps and Hermite wavelet method, for solving
the fractional delay differential equations. This technique first converts the fractional delay differential equation
to a fractional nondelay differential equation and then applies the Hermite wavelet method on the obtained fractional
nondelay differential equation to find the solution. Several numerical examples are solved to show the
applicability of the proposed method.
Workability Behaviour of Powder Metallurgy Aluminium Composites
Authors: Narayan S. , Rajeshkannan A.
Published: July 2014

An efficient way to find the workability limit for powder metallurgy parts has been suggested. Compacts of Al-4%TiC, Al-4%WC, Al-4%Fe3C, and Al-4%Mo2C were produced to the relative density of 0.82 and 0.86 with three different geometries through primary operations of powder metallurgy routes. Each sintered compact was hot deformed to various strain levels till a visible crack appeared at the free surface. Oyane’s fracture principle was used to develop a theory to study powder metallurgy compacts. A least square technique was used to determine the constants in fracture criteria and these equations were finally used to find workability limit. It is found that the projected technique was well in agreement with the experimental values.
Developing Tools for Identifying Employer and Employee Satisfaction of Nursing New Graduates in China
Authors: Fan Yuying , Li Qiujie , Yang Shufen , Guo Ying , Yang Libin , Zhao Shibin
Published: July 2014

Purpose.Researchers developed evaluation tools measuring employment relevant satisfaction for nursing new graduates. The evaluation tools were designed to be relevant to nursing managers who make employment decisions and nursing new graduates who were just employed.Methods.In-depth interviews and an expert panel were established to review the activities that evaluate the employee and employer satisfaction of nursing new graduates. Based on individual interviews and literature review, evaluation items were selected. A two-round Delphi study was then conducted from September 2008 to May 2009 with a panel of experts from a range of nursing colleges in China.Results.The response rate was 100% and Kendall’s W was 0.73 in the second round of Delphi study. After two rounds of Delphi surveys, a list of 5 employee satisfaction items and 4 employer satisfaction items was identified for nursing new graduates.Conclusions.The findings of this study identified a different but multidimensional set of factors for employment relevant satisfaction, which confirmed the importance of certain fundamental aspects of practice. We developed the evaluation tools to assess the employer and employee satisfaction of nursing new graduates, which provided a database for further study.
Influence of Sleepers Shape and Configuration on Track-Train Dynamics
Authors: Bogacz Roman , Czyczuła Włodzimierz , Konowrocki Robert
Published: July 2014

The paper is devoted to the study of dynamical behaviour of railway tracks as continuous systems (rails) supported by periodically spaced sleepers and subjected to moving concentrated loads. Several cases of dynamical problems, where elastically supported beams are excited by a moving concentrated force, are considered. In particular, the study is focused on interactions with structure periodic in the space. Results on one-dimensional structures are extended to the case of a two-dimensional system. The problems of stopping bands, passing bands, and mistuning are also mentioned.
Influence of First‐Line Antibiotics on the Antibacterial Activities of Acetone Stem Bark Extract of Acacia mearnsii De Wild. against Drug‐Resistant Bacterial Isolates
Authors: Olajuyigbe Olufunmiso O. , Coopoosamy Roger M.
Published: July 2014

Background. This study was aimed at evaluating the antibacterial activity of the acetone extract of A. mearnsii and its interactions with antibiotics against some resistant bacterial strains. Methods. The antibacterial susceptibility testing was determined by agar diffusion and macrobroth dilution methods while the checkerboard method was used for the determination of synergy between the antibiotics and the extract. Results. The results showed that the susceptibility of the different bacterial isolates was concentration dependent for the extract and the different antibiotics. With the exception of S. marcescens, the inhibition zones of the extract produced by 20 mg/mL ranged between 18 and 32 mm. While metronidazole did not inhibit any of the bacterial isolates, all the antibiotics and their combinations, except for ciprofloxacin and its combination, did not inhibit Enterococcus faecalis. The antibacterial combinations were more of being antagonistic than of being synergistic in the agar diffusion assay. From the macrobroth dilution, the extract and the antibiotics exerted a varied degree of inhibitory effect on the test organisms. The MIC values of the acetone extract which are in mg/mL are lower than those of the different antibiotics which are in μg/mL. From the checkerboard assay, the antibacterial combinations showed varied degrees of interactions including synergism, additive, indifference, and antagonism interactions. While antagonistic and additive interactions were 14.44%, indifference interaction was 22.22% and synergistic interaction was 37.78% of the antibacterial combinations against the test isolates. While the additivity/indifference interactions indicated no interactions, the antagonistic interaction may be considered as a negative interaction that could result in toxicity and suboptimal bioactivity. Conclusion. The synergistic effects of the herbal‐drug combinations may be harnessed for the discovery and development of more rational evidence‐based drug combinations with optimized efficiency in the prevention of multidrug resistance and therapy of multifactorial diseases.
Analytical and Finite Element Modeling of the Dynamic Characteristics of a Linear Feeding Stage with Different Arrangements of Rolling Guides
Authors: Chang Jyh-Cheng , Hung Jui-Pin
Published: July 2014

This study was aimed at investigating the dynamic behaviors of the linear driven feeding stage by means of the analytical and finite element modeling approaches. To assess the dynamic characteristics of the stages with different linear guide arrangements, the finite element model of the stages was created, in which the linear components with rolling interface were accurately modeled based on the Hertzian theory. On the other hand, the analytically mathematical model was derived to determine how the linear guide arrangement affects the dynamic characteristics of the stage. Results of the modal analysis show that the vibration behaviors of the positioning stage are dominated by the rigidity of the linear components and the platform. In addition, comparisons of the results from the two approaches further indicate that the platform rigidity is an important factor determining the accuracy of the prediction of the vibration frequencies by the analytically mathematical model. As a conclusion of the study, the analytically mathematical model can approximate well to the finite element model when the linear stage is designed with appropriate structure rigidity.
Computationally Efficient DOA Tracking Algorithm in Monostatic MIMO Radar with Automatic Association
Authors: Yu Huaxin , Zhang Xiaofei , Chen Xueqiang , Wu Hailang
Published: July 2014

We consider the problem of tracking the direction of arrivals (DOA) of multiple moving targets in monostatic multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar. A low-complexity DOA tracking algorithm in monostatic MIMO radar is proposed. The proposed algorithm obtains DOA estimation via the difference between previous and current covariance matrix of the reduced-dimension transformation signal, and it reduces the computational complexity and realizes automatic association in DOA tracking. Error analysis and Cramér-Rao lower bound (CRLB) of DOA tracking are derived in the paper. The proposed algorithm not only can be regarded as an extension of array-signal-processing DOA tracking algorithm in (Zhang et al. (2008)), but also is an improved version of the DOA tracking algorithm in (Zhang et al. (2008)). Furthermore, the proposed algorithm has better DOA tracking performance than the DOA tracking algorithm in (Zhang et al. (2008)). The simulation results demonstrate effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. Our work provides the technical support for the practical application of MIMO radar.
Testosterone and Adipokines are Determinants of Physical Performance, Strength, and Aerobic Fitness in Frail, Obese, Older Adults
Authors: Aguirre Lina E. , Jan Irum Zeb , Fowler Kenneth , Waters Debra L. , Villareal Dennis T. , Armamento-Villareal Reina
Published: July 2014

In this study, we evaluated the independent and combined effects of baseline circulating gonadal, anabolic hormones and adipokines on physical function in 107 frail, obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), and older (≥65 yr) subjects. Our results showed significant positive correlations between circulating testosterone and insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1) with knee flexion, knee extension, one-repetition maximum (1-RM), and peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), while no correlation was observed with estradiol. Among the adipokines, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP) and leptin negatively correlated with the modified physical performance testing (PPT), knee flexion, knee extension, 1-RM, and VO2peak. Interleukin-6 ( Il-6) negatively correlated with knee flexion and VO2peak and soluble tumor necrosis factors receptor-1 (sTNFr1) correlated with PPT, 1-RM, and VO2peak. Adiponectin correlated negatively with 1-RM. Multiple regression analysis revealed that, for PPT, sTNFr1 was the only independent predictor. Independent predictors included adiponectin, leptin, and testosterone for knee flexion; leptin and testosterone for knee extension; adiponectin, leptin, and testosterone for 1-RM; and IGF-1, IL-6, leptin, and testosterone for VO2peak. In conclusion, in frail obese older adults, circulating levels of testosterone, adiponectin, and leptin appear to be important predictors of physical strength and fitness, while inflammation appears to be a major determinant of physical frailty.
Cloud Monitoring for Solar Plants with Support Vector Machine Based Fault Detection System
Authors: Chang Hong-Chan , Lin Shang-Chih , Kuo Cheng-Chien , Yu Hao-Ping
Published: July 2014

This study endeavors to develop a cloud monitoring system for solar plants. This system incorporates numerous subsystems, such as a geographic information system, an instantaneous power‐consumption information system, a reporting system, and a failure diagnosis system. Visual C# was integrated with ASP.NET and SQL technologies for the proposed monitoring system. A user interface for database management system was developed to enable users to access solar power information and management systems. In addition, by using peer‐to‐peer (P2P) streaming technology and audio/video encoding/decoding technology, real‐time video data can be transmitted to the client end, providing instantaneous and direct information. Regarding smart failure diagnosis, the proposed system employs the support vector machine (SVM) theory to train failure mathematical models. The solar power data are provided to the SVM for analysis in order to determine the failure types and subsequently eliminate failures at an early stage. The cloud energy‐management platform developed in this study not only enhances the management and maintenance efficiency of solar power plants but also increases the market competitiveness of solar power generation and renewable energy.
Oxidative Stresses and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Age-Related Hearing Loss
Authors: Fujimoto Chisato , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: July 2014

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL), the progressive loss of hearing associated with aging, is the most common sensory disorder in the elderly population. The pathology of ARHL includes the hair cells of the organ of Corti, stria vascularis, and afferent spiral ganglion neurons as well as the central auditory pathways. Many studies have suggested that the accumulation of mitochondrial DNA damage, the production of reactive oxygen species, and decreased antioxidant function are associated with subsequent cochlear senescence in response to aging stress. Mitochondria play a crucial role in the induction of intrinsic apoptosis in cochlear cells. ARHL can be prevented in laboratory animals by certain interventions, such as caloric restriction and supplementation with antioxidants. In this review, we will focus on previous research concerning the role of the oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathology of ARHL in both animal models and humans and introduce concepts that have recently emerged regarding the mechanisms of the development of ARHL.
ITS1 PCR-RFLP Diagnosis and Characterization ofLeishmaniain Clinical Samples and Strains from Cases of Human Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in States of the Mexican Southeast
Authors: Monroy-Ostria Amalia , Nasereddin Abedelmajeed , Monteon Victor M. , Guzmán-Bracho Carmen , Jaffe Charles L.
Published: July 2014

American cutaneous leishmaniasis includes a spectrum of clinical forms localized cutaneous, diffuse cutaneous, and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis which can be caused by different strains ofLeishmaniabelonging to theL. mexicanaorL. braziliensiscomplexes which may coexist in the same endemic area. We evaluated the PCR-RFLP assay of the ITS1 genes for direct identification ofLeishmaniaspecies in 163 clinical samples and 21 Mexican isolates ofLeishmania. In relation to the Mexican isolates ofLeishmania52% displayed a pattern similar to theL. (L.) mexicana, 5% showed a mixed pattern compatible withL. (L.) mexicanaandL. (V.) braziliensis, eight withL. (L.) amazonensisandL. (L.) mexicana, and one toL. (V.) braziliensis. Most of the clinical samples, 109/116 (94%), gave a pattern similar to that of theL. mexicana, two clinical samples gave similar patterns to that ofLeishmaniabraziliensis, and 5 samples gave patterns that suggest a coinfection ofL. (L.) mexicanaandL. (V.) braziliensisorL. (L.) mexicanaandL. (L.) amazonensis. The ITS1 PCR-RFLP assay is a multipurpose tool for diagnosis ofLeishmaniafrom clinical samples and enables determination of the infecting species of New WorldLeishmaniain the field in relatively short time and low cost.
Natural Resource Monitoring of Rheum tanguticum by Multilevel Remote Sensing
Authors: Xie Caixiang , Song Jingyuan , Suo Fengmei , Li Xiwen , Li Ying , Yu Hua , Xu Xiaolan , Luo Kun , Li Qiushi , Xin Tianyi , Guan Meng , Xu Xiuhai , Miki Eiji , Takeda Osami , Chen Shilin
Published: July 2014

Remote sensing has been extensively applied in agriculture for its objectiveness and promptness. However, few applications are available for monitoring natural medicinal plants. In the paper, a multilevel monitoring system, which includes satellite and aerial remote sensing, as well as ground investigation, was initially proposed to monitor natural Rheum tanguticum resource in Baihe Pasture, Zoige County, Sichuan Province. The amount of R. tanguticum from images is M = S*ρ and S is vegetation coverage obtained by satellite imaging, whereas ρ is R. tanguticum density obtained by low‐altitude imaging. Only the R. tanguticum which coverages exceeded 1 m2 could be recognized from the remote sensing image because of the 0.1 m resolution of the remote sensing image (called effective resource at that moment), and the results of ground investigation represented the amounts of R. tanguticum resource in all sizes (called the future resource). The data in paper showed that the present available amount of R. tanguticum accounted for 4% to 5% of the total quantity. The quantity information and the population structure of R. tanguticum in the Baihe Pasture were initially confirmed by this system. It is feasible to monitor the quantitative distribution for natural medicinal plants with scattered distribution.
A Note on Gronwall’s Inequality on Time Scales
Authors: Lin Xueru
Published: July 2014

This paper gives a new version of Gronwall’s inequality on time scales. The method used in the proof is much different from that in the literature. Finally, an application is presented to show the feasibility of the obtained Gronwall’s inequality.
Investigation of Compact Balun‐Bandpass Filter Using Folded Open‐Loop Ring Resonators and Microstrip Lines
Authors: Chen Chia-Mao , Chang Shoou-Jinn , Wu Sung-Mao , Hsieh Yuan-Tai , Yang Cheng-Fu
Published: July 2014

A balun‐bandpass filter was proposed by using two folded open‐loop ring resonators (OLRRs) to couple three microstrip lines. By tuning the size of the OLRR, the operating frequency of the balun‐bandpass filter could be tuned to the needed value. By tuning the size of open stub at the end of microstrip lines, the balanced impedance of the balun‐bandpass filter could also be tuned. The fabricated balun‐bandpass filter had a wide bandwidth and a low insertion loss at center frequency of the passband. The balun‐bandpass filter presented an excellent in‐band balanced performance with common‐mode rejection ratio more than 20 dB in the passbands. An advanced design methodology had been adopted based on EM simulation for making these designed parameters of OLRRs and microstrip lines. Good correlation was seen between simulation and measurement, and the result was that first run pass had been achieved in the majority of our designs.
Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma: Current Treatments and Potential New Therapeutic Options with Emphasis on TfR1/CD71
Authors: Parenti Rosalba , Salvatorelli Lucia , Magro Gaetano
Published: July 2014

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is one of the most aggressive human cancers. Actually, ATC is refractory to conventional therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and radioiodine (131I) therapy. Accordingly, genetic and molecular characterizations of ATC have been frequently and periodically reviewed in order to identify potential biological markers exploitable for target therapy. This review briefly focuses on main molecular events that characterize ATC and provides an update about preclinical studies. In addition, the overexpression of transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1/CD71) by neoplastic cells of ATC is emphasized in that it could represent a potential therapeutic target. In this regard, new therapeutic approaches based on the use of monoclonal or recombinant antibodies, or transferrin-gallium-TfR1/CD71 molecular complexes, or lastly small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are proposed.
A Novel Node Importance Evaluation Method Based on Agglomeration Contraction Principle for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Kui , Wang Chunfeng , Liu Sanyang
Published: July 2014

The node importance evaluation based on removal of nodes and their incident links cannot accurately reflect the importance of the nodes, because such approach may change the topology of the network, and even split the network into several disconnected parts. To solve this problem, we propose a novel node importance evaluation method based on agglomeration contraction principle. This method does not require the node being evaluated to be removed from the network; thus, it may not cause network fracture. With this method, aided by spectral analysis, the vital gateway nodes can be identified by using the nontrivial eigenvectors of the Laplace matrix of the network diagram. Then, a formula to estimate the importance of particular individuals within the network is proposed; moreover, the betweenness centrality and the positions of nodes are taken into consideration. At last, using some superenergy nodes to provide targeted protection for the vital gateway nodes in the network, the life of the network can be prolonged and the robustness of the system improved effectively. Above all, with this method, the number of nodes to be evaluated in a network can be reduced, and the computation decreased accordingly. Final experiments verify the efficiency of the proposed method and the result is consistent with our intuitive judgments.
Investigations of Curcumin and Resveratrol on Neurite Outgrowth: Perspectives on Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Bora-Tatar Gamze , Erdem-Yurter Hayat
Published: July 2014

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disease with progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. SMA is caused by low levels of the Survival of Motor Neuron (SMN) protein, which also leads to neurite outgrowth defects in neuronal cells. Rescue of the outgrowth defect is thought to be a strategy for SMA treatment. Polyphenolic histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors might be good candidates due to their neuritogenic properties. In the present study, it was investigated whether neurite outgrowth defects could be rescued by curcumin and resveratrol, which are SMN-inducing polyphenols, having HDAC inhibition activity. According to our results, although curcumin and resveratrol failed to restore the neurite outgrowth defects, the SMN protein was found to be necessary for the neurite-promoting activity of curcumin in neuron-like PC12 cells.
Sparse Data Analysis Strategy for Neural Spike Classification
Authors: Vigneron Vincent , Chen Hsin
Published: July 2014

Many of the multichannel extracellular recordings of neural activity consist of attempting to sort spikes on the basis of shared characteristics with some feature detection techniques. Then spikes can be sorted into distinct clusters. There are in general two main statistical issues: firstly, spike sorting can result in well-sorted units, but by with no means one can be sure that one is dealing with single units due to the number of neurons adjacent to the recording electrode. Secondly, the waveform dimensionality is reduced in a small subset of discriminating features. This shortening dimension effort was introduced as an aid to visualization and manual clustering, but also to reduce the computational complexity in automatic classification. We introduce a metric based on common neighbourhood to introduce sparsity in the dataset and separate data into more homogeneous subgroups. The approach is particularly well suited for clustering when the individual clusters are elongated (that is nonspherical). In addition it does need not to select the number of clusters, it is very efficient to visualize clusters in a dataset, it is robust to noise, it can handle imbalanced data, and it is fully automatic and deterministic.
Comparing the Selected Transfer Functions and Local Optimization Methods for Neural Network Flood Runoff Forecast
Authors: Maca Petr , Pech Pavel , Pavlasek Jiri
Published: July 2014

The presented paper aims to analyze the influence of the selection of transfer function and training algorithms on neural network flood runoff forecast. Nine of the most significant flood events, caused by the extreme rainfall, were selected from 10 years of measurement on small headwater catchment in the Czech Republic, and flood runoff forecast was investigated using the extensive set of multilayer perceptrons with one hidden layer of neurons. The analyzed artificial neural network models with 11 different activation functions in hidden layer were trained using 7 local optimization algorithms. The results show that the Levenberg‐Marquardt algorithm was superior compared to the remaining tested local optimization methods. When comparing the 11 nonlinear transfer functions, used in hidden layer neurons, the RootSig function was superior compared to the rest of analyzed activation functions.
The W.H.E.E.L.S. Preschool Vision Screening Program’s Initial Outcomes for 12,402 Children Screened Using the Plusoptix Photoscreener
Authors: Couser Natario L.
Published: July 2014

Objective. To report the results of the W.H.E.E.L.S. Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic vision screening program that targets preschoolers using the Plusoptix Photoscreener (Plusoptix Inc., Nuremburg, Germany). Methods. Trained program staff members conducted vision screenings at up to 113 preschool programs in the Richmond metropolitan area for four consecutive years; a cross-sectional analysis was performed. Results and Discussion. From September 2010 to March 2014, 15,075 preschoolers have been offered a free vision screening; 12,402 (82%) have been screened. A total of 3,018 (24%) have failed the screening and were recommended to follow up with an eye care specialist for a comprehensive examination; only 30% reported complying. Significant refractive errors were more frequently the cause for a failed screening. Conclusions. The W.H.E.E.L.S. program has identified a high number of preschoolers with significant amblyopic risk factors that were previously unknown to be present. Undesirably low follow-up reporting outcomes from children who fail a vision screening examination were consistent with other reports. Nevertheless, having a mobile vision screening program that uses photoscreening technology in targeting children prior to school entry is an efficient and cost-effective way to detect vision disorders in a timely manner.
An Analytical Solution by HAM for Nonlinear Simulation of Deepwater SCR Installation
Authors: Wang Yi , Gu Ji-jun , An Chen , Duan Meng-lan , He Ning
Published: July 2014

Steel catenary riser (SCR) is a cost-effective riser system that is widely used in deepwater offshore oilfields development. During SCR J-lay installation, the movement of pull-head must be carefully controlled to ensure riser safety. Since the SCR installation path calculation through numerical simulation software is usually time-consuming, this paper has established a mechanical model for SCR installation by making use of homotopy analysis method (HAM) to simplify its analytical solution, and dimensional analysis was considered in making initial guess solution. Based on this analytical solution, a program within the framework of MATLAB was developed to predict the two-dimensional riser behavior during installation, and a sensitivity analysis for different values of the control variables was carried out. Engineers may efficiently optimize the installation path by the application of this technique.
Ocular Toxicity Secondary toAsclepias physocarpa: The Balloon Plant
Authors: Pina Susana , Pedrosa Catarina , Santos Cristina , Feijóo Bernardo , Pego Peter , Vendrell Cristina , Santos Maria João , Prieto Isabel
Published: July 2014

We report a case of a 65-year-old woman with symptoms of blurred vision and ocular irritation a few hours after accidental contact of the right eye withAsclepias physocarpamilky latex. Observation showed a diffuse conjunctival hyperemia and stromal corneal edema with Descemet’s membrane folds. Recovery was fast and apparently complete in less than one month. However, specular microscopy at 6-months follow-up showed an abnormal endothelial morphology as sequelae, suggesting this condition is not as innocuous as it has been suggested.