bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant Activity and Functional Properties of Polymerized Whey Products by Glycation Process
Authors: Ortega Liliana , Romero Anabel , Muro Claudia , Riera Francisco
Published: October 2015

The antioxidant properties of sweet and acid whey products were incremented by polymerization of their proteins by glycation of whey protein concentrates (WPC) and their hydrolyzates (WPCH) with ribose and glucose in individual experiments under similar concentration. Heating at 50°C during 20 h maximum and pH 7 and pH 9 were used in all tests. The higher activity was found in WPC glycosylates products with ribose at pH 7 and heating during 10–15 h. In comparable form, antioxidant activity in WPCH was incremented by prior hydrolysis to glycation with 25–45% of hydrolysis degree. Further functional properties of whey proteins (solubility, emulsion, and foam) were also improved by the polymerization with ribose. The color of polymerized products due to Maillard reactions was associated with antioxidant activity of each compound; however comparative color in glycosylates products with glucose and ribose did not show this effect.
Small-Gauge Pars Plana Vitrectomy for the Management of Symptomatic Posterior Vitreous Detachment after Phacoemulsification and Multifocal Intraocular Lens Implantation: A Pilot Study from the Pan-American Collaborative Retina Study Group
Authors: Navarro Rodrigo M. , Machado Leonardo M. , Maia Ossires , Wu Lihteh , Farah Michel E. , Magalhaes Octaviano , Arevalo J. Fernando , Maia Mauricio
Published: October 2015

Purpose.To determine the efficacy of 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for symptomatic posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) on visual acuity (VA) and quality after multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs).Methods. In this prospective case series, patients who developed symptomatic PVD and were not satisfied with visual quality due to floaters and halos after multifocal IOL implantation underwent PPV. Examinations included LogMAR uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), intraocular pressure, biomicroscopy, and indirect ophthalmoscopy at baseline and 1, 7, 30, and 180 days postoperatively. Ultrasonography and aberrometry were performed. The Visual Functioning Questionnaire 25 (VFQ-25) was administered preoperatively and at 30 days postoperatively. Both the postoperative UCVA and questionnaire results were compared to preoperative findings using the Wilcoxon test.Results. Sixteen eyes of 8 patients were included. VA significantly improved from 0.17 to 0.09 postoperatively (P=0.017). All patients reported improvement of halos, glare, and floaters. VFQ-25 scores significantly improved in general vision (P=0.023), near activities (P=0.043), distance activities (P=0.041), mental health (P=0.011), role difficulties (P=0.042), and driving (P=0.016).Conclusion. PPV may increase UCVA and quality of vision in patients with bilateral multifocal IOLs and symptomatic PVD. Larger studies are advised.
Prognostic Value of Cancer Stem Cells Markers in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Collina Francesca , Di Bonito Maurizio , Li Bergolis Valeria , De Laurentiis Michelino , Vitagliano Carlo , Cerrone Margherita , Nuzzo Francesco , Cantile Monica , Botti Gerardo
Published: October 2015

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has a significant clinical relevance of being associated with a shorter median time to relapse and death and does not respond to endocrine therapy or other available targeted agents. Increased aggressiveness of this tumor, as well as resistance to standard drug therapies, may be associated with the presence of stem cell populations within the tumor. Several stemness markers have been described for the various histological subtypes of breast cancer, such as CD44, CD24, CD133, ALDH1, and ABCG2. The role of these markers in breast cancer is not clear yet and above all there are conflicting opinions about their real prognostic value. To investigate the role of CSCs markers in TNBC cancerogenesis and tumor progression, we selected 160 TNBCs samples on which we detected protein expression of CD44, CD24, CD133, ALDH1, and ABCG2 by immunohistochemistry. Our results highlighted a real prognostic role only for CD44 in TNBCs. All other CSCs markers do not appear to be related to the survival of TNBC patients. In conclusion, despite the fact that the presence of the cancer stem cells in the tumor provides important information on its potential aggressiveness, today their detection by immunohistochemistry is not sufficient to confirm their role in carcinogenesis, because specific markers probably are not yet identified.
Faber Polynomial Coefficients of Classes of Meromorphic Bistarlike Functions
Authors: Jahangiri Jay M. , Hamidi Samaneh G.
Published: October 2015

Applying the Faber polynomial coefficient expansions to certain classes of meromorphic bistarlike functions, we demonstrate the unpredictability of their early coefficients and also obtain general coefficient estimates for such functions subject to a given gap series condition. Our results improve some of the coefficient bounds published earlier.
A Study on Many-Objective Optimization Using the Kriging-Surrogate-Based Evolutionary Algorithm Maximizing Expected Hypervolume Improvement
Authors: Luo Chang , Shimoyama Koji , Obayashi Shigeru
Published: October 2015

The many-objective optimization performance of the Kriging-surrogate-based evolutionary algorithm (EA), which maximizes expected hypervolume improvement (EHVI) for updating the Kriging model, is investigated and compared with those using expected improvement (EI) and estimation (EST) updating criteria in this paper. Numerical experiments are conducted in 3- to 15-objective DTLZ1-7 problems. In the experiments, an exact hypervolume calculating algorithm is used for the problems with less than six objectives. On the other hand, an approximate hypervolume calculating algorithm based on Monte Carlo sampling is adopted for the problems with more objectives. The results indicate that, in the nonconstrained case, EHVI is a highly competitive updating criterion for the Kriging model and EA based many-objective optimization, especially when the test problem is complex and the number of objectives or design variables is large.
Pressure Overload by Transverse Aortic Constriction Induces Maladaptive Hypertrophy in a Titin-Truncated Mouse Model
Authors: Zhou Qifeng , Kesteven Scott , Wu Jianxin , Aidery Parwez , Gawaz Meinrad , Gramlich Michael , Feneley Michael P. , Harvey Richard P.
Published: October 2015

Mutations in the giant sarcomeric protein titin (TTN) are a major cause for inherited forms of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). We have previously developed a mouse model that imitates a TTN truncation mutation we found in a large pedigree with DCM. While heterozygousTtnknock-in mice do not display signs of heart failure under sedentary conditions, they recapitulate the human phenotype when exposed to the pharmacological stressor angiotensin II or isoproterenol. In this study we investigated the effects of pressure overload by transverse aortic constriction (TAC) in heterozygous (Het)Ttnknock-in mice. Two weeks after TAC, Het mice developed marked impairment of left ventricular ejection fraction(p<0.05), while wild-type (WT) TAC mice did not. Het mice also trended toward increased ventricular end diastolic pressure and volume compared to WT littermates. We found an increase in histologically diffuse cardiac fibrosis in Het compared to WT in TAC mice. This study shows that a pattern of DCM can be induced by TAC-mediated pressure overload in a TTN-truncated mouse model. This model enlarges our arsenal of cardiac disease models, adding a valuable tool to understand cardiac pathophysiological remodeling processes and to develop therapeutic approaches to combat heart failure.
Solar Thermal System Evaluation in China
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Xu Wei , He Tao , You Shijun , Gao Yan , Wang Min , Li Bojia
Published: October 2015

More than 581 solar thermal systems (STSs), 98 counties, and 47 renewable application demonstration cites in China need to be inspected by the end of 2015. In this study, the baseline for performance and economic evaluation of STSs are presented based on the site test data and related references. An index used to evaluate STSs was selected, and methods to acquire the parameters used to calculate the related index were set. The requirements for sensors for testing were specified. The evaluation method was applied to three systems and the result shows that the evaluation method is suitable for the evaluation of STSs in China.
Social Cognitive Mediators of Sociodemographic Differences in Colorectal Cancer Screening Uptake
Authors: Lo Siu Hing , Waller Jo , Vrinten Charlotte , Kobayashi Lindsay , von Wagner Christian
Published: October 2015

Background. This study examined if and how sociodemographic differences in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening uptake can be explained by social cognitive factors.Methods. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with individuals aged 60–70 years (n=1309) living in England as part of a population-based omnibus survey.Results. There were differences in screening uptake by SES, marital status, ethnicity, and age but not by gender. Perceived barriers (stand.b=-0.40,p<0.001), social norms (stand.b=0.33,p<0.001), and screening knowledge (stand.b=0.17,p<0.001) had independent associations with uptake. SES differences in uptake were mediated through knowledge, social norms, and perceived barriers. Ethnic differences were mediated through knowledge. Differences in uptake by marital status were primarily mediated through social norms and to a lesser extent through knowledge. Age differences were largely unmediated, except for a small mediated effect via social norms.Conclusions. Sociodemographic differences in CRC screening uptake were largely mediated through social cognitive factors.Impact. Our findings suggest that multifaceted interventions might be needed to reduce socioeconomic inequalities. Ethnic differences might be reduced through improved screening knowledge. Normative interventions could emphasise screening as an activity endorsed by important others outside the immediate family to appeal to a wider audience.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity Determination of One Hundred Kinds of Pure Chemical Compounds Using Offline and Online Screening HPLC Assay
Authors: Lee Kwang Jin , Oh You Chang , Cho Won Kyung , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: October 2015

This study investigated the antioxidant activity of one hundred kinds of pure chemical compounds found within a number of natural substances and oriental medicinal herbs (OMH). Three different methods were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity of DPPH radical-scavenging activity, ABTS radical-scavenging activity, and online screening HPLC-ABTS assays. The results indicated that 17 compounds exhibited better inhibitory activity against ABTS radical than DPPH radical. The IC50rate of a more practical substance is determined, and the ABTS assay IC50values of gallic acid hydrate, (+)-catechin hydrate, caffeic acid, rutin hydrate, hyperoside, quercetin, and kaempferol compounds were 1.03 ± 0.25, 3.12 ± 0.51, 1.59 ± 0.06, 4.68 ± 1.24, 3.54 ± 0.39, 1.89 ± 0.33, and 3.70 ± 0.15 μg/mL, respectively. The ABTS assay is more sensitive to identifying the antioxidant activity since it has faster reaction kinetics and a heightened response to antioxidants. In addition, there was a very small margin of error between the results of the offline-ABTS assay and those of the online screening HPLC-ABTS assay. We also evaluated the effects of 17 compounds on the NO secretion in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and also investigated the cytotoxicity of 17 compounds using a cell counting kit (CCK) in order to determine the optimal concentration that would provide an effective anti-inflammatory action with minimum toxicity. These results will be compiled into a database, and this method can be a powerful preselection tool for compounds intended to be studied for their potential bioactivity and antioxidant activity related to their radical-scavenging capacity.
Rheological Properties of Polysaccharides from Longan (Dimocarpus longanLour.) Fruit
Authors: Liu Xingxun , Luo Yongyue , Zha Chunjie , Zhou Sumei , Liu Liya , Zhao Lei
Published: October 2015

Longan polysaccharide (LP) was extracted from longan (Dimocarpus longanLour.) pulp. The composition and rheological properties were determined by chemical analysis and dynamic shear rheometer. The flow behavior and viscoelastic behavior of longan polysaccharide (LP) solution were investigated by steady shear and small amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS) experiments, respectively. The result shows that the solution is a pseudoplastic flow in a range of shear rate (1–100 s−1). The rheological behavior of LP was influenced by cations such as Na+and Ca2+. With an increase of apparent viscosity,G′andG′′were accompanied by addition of Na+and Ca2+.
Potential of Newborn and Adult Stem Cells for the Production of Vascular Constructs Using the Living Tissue Sheet Approach
Authors: Bourget Jean-Michel , Gauvin Robert , Duchesneau David , Remy Murielle , Auger François A. , Germain Lucie
Published: October 2015

Bypass surgeries using native vessels rely on the availability of autologous veins and arteries. An alternative to those vessels could be tissue-engineered vascular constructs made by self-organized tissue sheets. This paper intends to evaluate the potential use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from two different sources: (1) bone marrow-derived MSCs and (2) umbilical cord blood-derived MSCs. When culturedin vitro, a proportion of those cells differentiated into smooth muscle cell- (SMC-) like cells and expressed contraction associated proteins. Moreover, these cells assembled into manipulable tissue sheets when cultured in presence of ascorbic acid. Tubular vessels were then produced by rolling those tissue sheets on a mandrel. The architecture, contractility, and mechanical resistance of reconstructed vessels were compared with tissue-engineered media and adventitia produced from SMCs and dermal fibroblasts, respectively. Histology revealed a collagenous extracellular matrix and the contractile responses measured for these vessels were stronger than dermal fibroblasts derived constructs although weaker than SMCs-derived constructs. The burst pressure of bone marrow-derived vessels was higher than SMCs-derived ones. These results reinforce the versatility of the self-organization approach since they demonstrate that it is possible to recapitulate a contractile media layer from MSCs without the need of exogenous scaffolding material.
Incorporation of Nanohybrid Films of Silica into Recycled Polystyrene Matrix
Authors: Hernández-Padrón Genoveva , Rangel-Miranda Domingo , Cedillo Gerardo , Blanco-Hernández Alejandra
Published: October 2015

An alternative for the reutilization of polystyrene waste containers consisting in creating a hybrid material made of SiO2 nanoparticles embedded in a matrix of recycled polystyrene (PSR) has been developed. Recycled polystyrene functionalized (PSRF) was used to influence the morphological and antifog properties by the sol‐gel synthesis of nanohybrid silica. To this end, silica nanoparticles were produced from alkoxide precursors in the presence of recycled polystyrene. The functionalization of this polymeric matrix was with the purpose of uniting in situ carboxyl and silanol groups during the sol‐gel process. In this way, opaque or transparent solid substrates can be obtained, with each of these endowed with optical conditions that depend on the amount of reactants employed to prepare each nanohybrid specimen. The nanohybrids were labelled as SiO2/PSR (HPSR) and SiO2/PSRF (HPSRF) and their properties were then compared to those of commercial polystyrene (PS). All the prepared samples were used for coating glass substrates. The hydrophobicity of the resultant coatings was determined through contact angle measurement. The nanohybrid materials were characterized by FT‐IR and 1H‐NMR techniques. Additionally, TGA and SEM were employed to determine their thermal and textural properties.
Does the Primary Care Experience Influence the Cancer Diagnostic Process?
Authors: Provost Sylvie , Pineault Raynald , Tousignant Pierre , Roberge Danièle , Tremblay Dominique , Breton Mylaine , Benhadj Lynda , Diop Mamadou , Fournier Michel , Brousselle Astrid
Published: October 2015

Objective. To analyze the impact of patients’ experience of care at their usual source of primary care on their choice of point of entry into cancer investigation process, time to diagnosis, and presence of metastatic cancer at time of diagnosis.Method. A questionnaire was administered to 438 patients with cancer (breast, lung, and colorectal) between 2011 and 2013 in four oncology clinics of Quebec (Canada). Multiple regression analyses (logistic and Cox models) were conducted.Results. Among patients with symptoms leading to investigation of cancer (n=307), 47% used their usual source of primary care as the point of entry for investigation. Greater comprehensiveness of care was associated with the decision to use this source as point of entry (OR = 1.25; CI 90% = 1.06–1.46), as well as with shorter times between first symptoms and investigation (HR = 1.11;p=0.05), while greater accessibility was associated with shorter times between investigation and diagnosis (HR = 1.13;p<0.01).  Conclusion. Experience of care at the usual source of primary care has a slight influence on the choice of point of entry for cancer investigation and on time to diagnosis. This influence appears to be more related to patients’ perceptions of the accessibility and comprehensiveness of their usual source of primary care.
Analysis of Spatiotemporal Dynamic and Bifurcation in a Wetland Ecosystem
Authors: Wang Yi , Zhao Min , Yu Hengguo , Dai Chuanjun , Mei Debing , Wang Qi , Ma Zengling
Published: October 2015

A wetland ecosystem is studied theoretically and numerically to reveal the rules of dynamics which can be quite accurate to better describe the observed spatial regularity of tussock vegetation. Mathematical theoretical works mainly investigate the stability of constant steady states, the existence of nonconstant steady states, and bifurcation, which can deduce a standard parameter control relation and in return can provide a theoretical basis for the numerical simulation. Numerical analysis indicates that the theoretical works are correct and the wetland ecosystem can show rich dynamical behaviors not only regular spatial patterns. Our results further deepen and expand the study of dynamics in the wetland ecosystem. In addition, it is successful to display tussock formation in the wetland ecosystem may have important consequences for aquatic community structure, especially for species interactions and biodiversity. All these results are expected to be useful in the study of the dynamic complexity of wetland ecosystems.
Geometric Properties of a Class of Analytic Functions Defined by a Differential Inequality
Authors: Kaur Manpreet , Gupta Sushma , Singh Sukhjit
Published: October 2015

Let A be the class of analytic functions f defined in the open unit disk E and normalized by f(0)=f'(0)-1=0. For f(z)/z≠0 in E, let Mα,λ:={f∈A:|-αz2(z/f(z))′′  +f′(z)(z/f(z))2-1|≤λ,  z∈E}, where λ>0 and α∈R∖[-1/2,0]. In the present paper, we find conditions under which functions in the class M(α,λ) are starlike of order γ, 0≤γ<1.
Alginate/Poly(γ-glutamic Acid) Base Biocompatible Gel for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Chan Wing P. , Kung Fu-Chen , Kuo Yu-Lin , Yang Ming-Chen , Lai Wen-Fu Thomas
Published: October 2015

A technique for synthesizing biocompatible hydrogels by cross-linking calcium-form poly(γ-glutamic acid), alginate sodium, and Pluronic F-127 was created, in which alginate can be cross-linked by Ca2+from Ca–γ-PGA directly andγ-PGA molecules introduced into the alginate matrix to provide pH sensitivity and hemostasis. Mechanical properties, swelling behavior, and blood compatibility were investigated for each hydrogel compared with alginate and forγ-PGA hydrogel with the sodium form only. Adding F-127 improves mechanical properties efficiently and influences the temperature-sensitive swelling of the hydrogels but also has a minor effect on pH-sensitive swelling and promotes anticoagulation. MG-63 cells were used to test biocompatibility. Gelation occurred gradually through change in the elastic modulus as the release of calcium ions increased over time and caused ionic cross-linking, which promotes the elasticity of gel. In addition, the growth of MG-63 cells in the gel reflected nontoxicity. These results showed that this biocompatible scaffold has potential for application in bone materials.
MicroRNAs as Important Players and Biomarkers in Oral Carcinogenesis
Authors: Min Anjie , Zhu Chao , Peng Shuping , Rajthala Saroj , Costea Daniela Elena , Sapkota Dipak
Published: October 2015

Oral cancer, represented mainly by oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), is the eighth most common type of human cancer worldwide. The number of new OSCC cases is increasing worldwide, especially in the low-income countries, and the prognosis remains poor in spite of recent advances in the diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), 18–25 nucleotides long noncoding RNA molecules, have recently gained significant attention as potential regulators and biomarkers for carcinogenesis. Recent data show that several miRNAs are deregulated in OSCC, and they have either a tumor suppressive or an oncogenic role in oral carcinogenesis. This review summarizes current knowledge on the role of miRNAs as tumor promotors or tumor suppressors in OSCC development and discusses their potential value as diagnostic and prognostic markers in OSCC.
Beyond the Limits: Clinical Utility of Novel Cardiac Biomarkers
Authors: Janković Radmilo , Marković Danica , Savić Nenad , Dinić Vesna
Published: October 2015

Preoperative assessment of cardiovascular risk is essential when it comes to extensive noncardiac surgery procedures. Therefore, accurate and timely diagnosis of myocyte damage is vital. In modern medical practice it is believed that the so-called “multimarker” approach is the most appropriate and most accurate, but new research points out that there are novel biomarkers which could be used independently. Studies that evaluate miRNA, H-FABP, and MR-PAMP give encouraging results. When it comes to miRNA clinical studies show high statistical significance, especially in the case of acute myocardial infarction (P=0.001). Statistical significance ofP=0.007was found in acute coronary syndrome, when H-FABP was measured. Biochemical marker MR-PAMP showed statistical significance ofP<0.0001in most clinical studies.
AVL and Monitoring for Massive Traffic Control System over DDS
Authors: Almadani Basem , Khan Shehryar , Bajwa Muhammad Naseer , Sheltami Tarek R. , Shakshuki Elhadi
Published: October 2015

This paper proposes a real-time Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) and monitoring system for traffic control of pilgrims coming towards the city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia based on Data Distribution Service (DDS) specified by the Object Management Group (OMG). DDS based middleware employs Real-Time Publish/Subscribe (RTPS) protocol that implements many-to-many communication paradigm suitable in massive traffic control applications. Using this middleware approach, we are able to locate and track huge number of mobile vehicles and identify all passengers in real-time who are coming to perform annual Hajj. For validation of our proposed framework, various performance matrices are examined over WLAN using DDS. Results show that DDS based middleware can meet real-time requirements in large-scale AVL environment.
Substrate Temperature Effect on the Microstructure and Properties of (Si, Al)/a‐C:H Films Prepared through Magnetron Sputtering Deposition
Authors: Liu Xiaoqiang , Hao Junying , Yang Hu , Lin Xiuzhou , Zeng Xianguang
Published: October 2015

Hydrogenated amorphous carbon films codoped with Si and Al ((Si, Al)/a‐C:H) were deposited through radio frequency (RF, 13.56 MHz) magnetron sputtering on Si (100) substrate at different temperatures. The composition and structure of the films were investigated by means of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), TEM, and Raman spectra, respectively. The substrate temperature effect on microstructure and mechanical and tribological properties of the films was studied. A structural transition of the films from nanoparticle containing to fullerene‐like was observed. Correspondingly, the mechanical properties of the films also had obvious transition. The tribological results in ambient air showed that high substrate temperature (>573 K) was disadvantage of wear resistance of the films albeit in favor of formation of ordering carbon clusters. Particularly, the film deposited at temperature of 423 K had an ultralow friction coefficient of about 0.01 and high wear resistance.
Do Italian Companies Manage Work-Related Stress Effectively? A Process Evaluation in Implementing the INAIL Methodology
Authors: Di Tecco Cristina , Ronchetti Matteo , Ghelli Monica , Russo Simone , Persechino Benedetta , Iavicoli Sergio
Published: October 2015

Studies on Intervention Process Evaluation are attracting growing attention in the literature on interventions linked to stress and the wellbeing of workers. There is evidence that some elements relating to the process and content of an intervention may have a decisive role in implementing it by facilitating or hindering the effectiveness of the results. This study aimed to provide a process evaluation on interventions to assess and manage risks related to work-related stress using a methodological path offered by INAIL. The final sample is composed of 124 companies participating to an interview on aspects relating to each phase of the INAIL methodological path put in place to implement the intervention. INAIL methodology has been defined as useful in the process of assessing and managing the risks related to work-related stress. Some factors related to the process (e.g., implementation of a preliminary phase, workers’ involvement, and use of external consultants) showed a role in significant differences that emerged in the levels of risk, particularly in relation to findings from the preliminary assessment. Main findings provide information on the key aspects of process and content that are useful in implementing an intervention for assessing and managing risks related to work-related stress.
Calculation of Sentence Semantic Similarity Based on Syntactic Structure
Authors: Li Xiao , Li Qingsheng
Published: October 2015

Combined with the problem of single direction of the solution of the existing sentence similarity algorithms, an algorithm for sentence semantic similarity based on syntactic structure was proposed. Firstly, analyze the sentence constituent, then through analysis convert sentence similarity into words similarity on the basis of syntactic structure, then convert words similarity into concept similarity through words disambiguation, and, finally, realize the semantic similarity comparison. It also gives the comparison rules in more detail for the modifier words in the sentence which also have certain contributions to the sentence. Under the same test condition, the experiments show that the proposed algorithm is more intuitive understanding of people and has higher accuracy.
Taming the Electromagnetic Boundaries via Metasurfaces: From Theory and Fabrication to Functional Devices
Authors: Luo Xiangang , Pu Mingbo , Ma Xiaoliang , Li Xiong
Published: October 2015

As two-dimensional metamaterials, metasurfaces have received rapidly increasing attention from researchers all over the world. Unlike three-dimensional metamaterials, metasurfaces can be utilized to control the electromagnetic waves within one infinitely thin layer, permitting substantial advantages, such as easy fabrication, low cost, and high degree of integration. This paper reviews the history and recent development of metasurfaces, with particular emphasis on the theory and applications relating to the frequency response, phase shift, and polarization state control. Based on the current status of various applications, the challenges and future trends of metasurfaces are discussed.
A Novel Tournament Selection Based Differential Evolution Variant for Continuous Optimization Problems
Authors: Abbas Qamar , Ahmad Jamil , Jabeen Hajira
Published: October 2015

Differential evolution (DE) is a powerful global optimization algorithm which has been studied intensively by many researchers in the recent years. A number of variants have been established for the algorithm that makes DE more applicable. However, most of the variants are suffering from the problems of convergence speed and local optima. A novel tournament based parent selection variant of DE algorithm is proposed in this research. The proposed variant enhances searching capability and improves convergence speed of DE algorithm. This paper also presents a novel statistical comparison of existing DE mutation variants which categorizes these variants in terms of their overall performance. Experimental results show that the proposed DE variant has significance performance over other DE mutation variants.
Bond Characteristics of Macro Polypropylene Fiber in Cementitious Composites Containing Nanosilica and Styrene Butadiene Latex Polymer
Authors: Han Jae-Woong , Jeon Ji-Hong , Park Chan-Gi
Published: October 2015

This study evaluated the bond properties of polypropylene (PP) fiber in plain cementitious composites (PCCs) and styrene butadiene latex polymer cementitious composites (LCCs) at different nanosilica contents. The bond tests were evaluated according to JCI SF-8, in which the contents of nanosilica in the cement were 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wt%, based on cement weight. The addition of nanosilica significantly affected the bond properties between macro PP fiber and cementitious composites. For PCCs, the addition of 0–2 wt% nanosilica enhanced bond strength and interface toughness, whereas the addition of 4 wt% or more reduced bond strength and interface toughness. The bond strength and interfacial toughness of LCCs also increased with the addition of up to 6% nanosilica. The analysis of the relative bond strength showed that the addition of nanosilica affects the bond properties of both PCC and LCC. This result was confirmed via microstructural analysis of the macro PP fiber surface after the bond tests, which revealed an increase in scratches due to frictional forces and fiber tearing.
Incremental Discriminant Analysis on Interval-Valued Parameters for Emitter Identification
Authors: Xu Xin , Xiong Zhaohua , Wang Wei
Published: October 2015

Emitter identification has been widely recognized as one crucial issue for communication, electronic reconnaissance, and radar intelligence analysis. However, the measurements of emitter signal parameters typically take the form of uncertain intervals rather than precise values. In addition, the measurements are generally accumulated dynamically and continuously. As a result, one imminent task has become how to carry out discriminant analysis of interval-valued parameters incrementally for emitter identification. Existing machine learning approaches for interval-valued data analysis are unfit for this purpose as they generally assume a uniform distribution and are usually restricted to static data analysis. To address the above problems, we bring forward an incremental discriminant analysis method on interval-valued parameters (IDAIP) for emitter identification. Extensive experiments on both synthetic and real-life data sets have validated the efficiency and effectiveness of our method.
Channel-Aware Adaptive Quantization Method for Source Localization in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Guiyun , Yao Jing , Liu Yonggui , Chen Hongbin , Tang Dong
Published: October 2015

This paper considers the problem of source localization using quantized observations in wireless sensor networks where, due to bandwidth constraint, each sensor’s observation is usually quantized into one bit of information. First, a channel-aware adaptive quantization scheme for target location estimation is proposed and local sensor nodes dynamically adjust their quantization thresholds according to the position-based information sequence. The novelty of the proposed approach comes from the fact that the scheme not only adopts the distributed adaptive quantization instead of the conventional fixed quantization, but also incorporates the statistics of imperfect wireless channels between sensors and the fusion center (binary symmetric channels). Furthermore, the appropriate maximum likelihood estimator (MLE), the performance metric Cramér-Rao lower bound (CRLB), and a sufficient condition for the Fisher information matrix being positive definite are derived, respectively. Simulation results are presented to show that the appropriated CRLB is less than the fixed quantization channel-aware CRLB and the proposed MLE will approach their CRLB when the number of sensors is large enough.
Word Sense Disambiguation for Chinese Based on Semantics Calculation
Authors: Liu Yuntong , Sun Hua
Published: October 2015

In order to use semantics more effectively in natural language processing, a word sense disambiguation method for Chinese based on semantics calculation was proposed. The word sense disambiguation for a Chinese clause could be achieved by solving the semantic model of the natural language; each step of the word sense disambiguation process was discussed in detail; and the computational complexity of the word sense disambiguation process was analyzed. Finally, some experiments were finished to verify the effectiveness of the method.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Implementation of an Adapted Evidence-Based Mammography Intervention for African American Women
Authors: Highfield Linda , Hartman Marieke A. , Bartholomew L. Kay , Balihe Philomene , Ausborn Valerie A.
Published: October 2015

Breast cancer mortality disparities continue, particularly for uninsured and minority women. A number of effective evidence-based interventions (EBIs) exist for addressing barriers to mammography screening; however, their uptake and use in community has been limited. Few cancer-specific studies have evaluated adapted EBIs in new contexts, and fewer still have considered implementation. This study sought to (1) evaluate the effectiveness of an adapted mammography EBI in improving appointment keeping in African American women and (2) describe processes of implementation in a new practice setting. We used the type 1 hybrid design to test effectiveness and implementation using a quasi-experimental design. Logistic regression and intent-to-treat analysis were used to evaluate mammography appointment attendance. The no-show rate was 44% (comparison) versus 19% (intervention). The adjusted odds of a woman in the intervention group attending her appointment were 3.88p<0.001. The adjusted odds of a woman attending her appointment in the intent-to-treat analysis were 2.31p<0.05. Adapted EBI effectiveness was 3.88 (adjusted OR) versus 2.10 (OR) for the original program, indicating enhanced program effect. A number of implementation barriers and facilitators were identified. Our findings support previous studies noting that sequentially measuring EBI efficacy and effectiveness, followed by implementation, may be missing important contextual information.
A Color Texture Image Segmentation Method Based on Fuzzy c-Means Clustering and Region-Level Markov Random Field Model
Authors: Liu Guoying , Li Pengwei , Zhang Yun
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a variation of the fuzzy local information c-means clustering (FLICM) algorithm that provides color texture image clustering. The proposed algorithm incorporates region-level spatial, spectral, and structural information in a novel fuzzy way. The new algorithm, called RFLICM, combines FLICM and region-level Markov random field model (RMRF) together to make use of large scale interactions between image patches instead of pixels. RFLICM can overcome the weakness of FLICM when dealing with textured images and at the same time enhances the clustering performance. The major characteristic of RFLICM is the use of a region-level fuzzy factor, aiming to guarantee texture homogeneity and preserve region boundaries. Experiments performed on synthetic and remote sensing images show that RFLICM is effective in providing accuracy to color texture images.
Polarization-Independent and Angle-Insensitive Metamaterial Absorber Using 90-Degree-Rotated Split-Ring Resonators
Authors: Feng Jia-Qi , Hu Wei-Dong , Zhang Qing-Le , Zong Hua , Huang Hui , Jin Yu-Ting , Wu Yu-Ming , Xu Zhan , Lv Xin , Si Li-Ming
Published: October 2015

We present the design, simulation, and measurement of a polarization-independent and angle-insensitive metamaterial absorber (MA) in X-band. Since the unit cell of the MA consists of four subwavelength split-ring resonators with 4-fold symmetric rotation, the MA is insensitive to the variation of both polarization and incident angle of the planar electromagnetic wave. The electromagnetic performances of the MA are studied by full-wave simulations based on finite-element method and the Naval Research Laboratory arch experimental measurements. The electric field distributions are numerically investigated, which confirm the polarization-insensitive property of the MA, as expected from the symmetric nature of the structure. When the incident angles vary from 0 to 45 degrees, the MA remains at full width at half maximum of 0.4 GHz (0.5 GHz) with peak absorptions of 99.9% (95.2%) at 10.27 GHz (10.3 GHz) by simulations (measurements).
Exploiting Multiple Channels for Low Latency and Semireliable Broadcasting in Cognitive Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Kim Tae-Sung , Kim Sok-Hyong , Kim Bo-Kyum , Kim Young-Yong
Published: October 2015

In Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), disaster management is a crucial issue that focuses on disaster relief and recovery. Mobile sensor nodes support disaster relief and recovery by means of real-time bidirectional communication. For its high data rate requirement, IEEE 802.11 specification can be used for the radio interface of sensor nodes, and the nodes can be equipped with multiple 802.11 radios to utilize multiple channels and link data rates. Channel assignment algorithms can be applied in cognitive radio enabled networks which performs dynamic channel configuration for utilizing multiple channels. For efficient and semireliable broadcast in cognitive radio WSNs, we focus on reducing broadcast latency and achieving 100% delivery percentage. To realize these goals, in this study, we present our design for a novelChannel Assignment Algorithm for a Collision-Reduced Broadcast Tree(CA-CBT). Fundamentally, CA-CBT builds a broadcast tree and then uses several heuristic procedures to allocate collision-free channels to links on the tree. If CA-CBT fails to allocate collision-free channels due to a limited number of available channels, it allocates non-collision-free channels with the smallest number of interfering nodes. Through extensive simulations, we demonstrated that CA-CBT supports lower broadcast latency and higher delivery percentages compared with existing broadcast algorithms.
Fungal Antagonism Assessment of Predatory Species and Producers Metabolites and Their Effectiveness onHaemonchus contortusInfective Larvae
Authors: Silva Manoel Eduardo , Braga Fabio Ribeiro , de Gives Pedro Mendoza , Millán-Orozco Jair , Uriostegui Miguel Angel Mercado , Marcelino Liliana Aguilar , Soares Filippe Elias de Freitas , Araújo Andréia Luiza , Vargas Thainá Souza , Aguiar Anderson Rocha , Senna Thiago , Rodrigues Maria Gorete , Froes Frederico Vieira , de Araújo Jackson Victor
Published: October 2015

The objective of this study was to assess antagonism of nematophagous fungi and species producers metabolites and their effectiveness onHaemonchus contortusinfective larvae (L3). Assay A assesses the synergistic, additive, or antagonistic effect on the production of spores of fungal isolates of the speciesDuddingtonia flagrans,Clonostachys rosea,Trichoderma esau, andArthrobotrys musiformis; Assay B evaluates in vitro the effect of intercropping of these isolates grown in 2% water-agar (2% WA) on L3ofH. contortus.D. flagrans(Assay A) produced 5.3 × 106spores and associated withT. esau,A. musiformis, orC. roseareduced its production by 60.37, 45.28, and 49.05%, respectively.T. esauproduced 7.9 × 107conidia and associated withD. flagrans,A. musiformis, orC. roseareduced its production by 39.24, 82.27, and 96.96%, respectively.A. musiformisproduced 7.3 × 109spores and associated withD. flagrans,T. esau, orC. roseareduced its production by 99.98, 99.99, and 99.98%, respectively.C. roseaproduced 7.3 × 108conidia and associated withD. flagrans,T. esau, orA. musiformisreduced its production by 95.20, 96.84, and 93.56%, respectively. These results show evidence of antagonism in the production of spores between predators fungi.
Cutaneous and Labyrinthine Tolerance of Bioactive Glass S53P4 in Mastoid and Epitympanic Obliteration Surgery: Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Bernardeschi Daniele , Nguyen Yann , Russo Francesca Yoshie , Mosnier Isabelle , Ferrary Evelyne , Sterkers Olivier
Published: October 2015

Objective. To evaluate the cutaneous and the inner ear tolerance of bioactive glass S53P4 when used in the mastoid and epitympanic obliteration for chronic otitis surgery.Material and Methods. Forty-one cases have been included in this prospective study. Cutaneous tolerance was clinically evaluated 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery with a physical examination of the retroauricular and external auditory canal (EAC) skin and the presence of otalgia; the inner ear tolerance was assessed by bone-conduction hearing threshold 1 day after surgery and by the presence of vertigo or imbalance.Results. All surgeries but 1 were uneventful: all patients maintained the preoperative bone-conduction hearing threshold except for one case in which the round window membrane was opened during the dissection of the cholesteatoma in the hypotympanum and this led to a dead ear. No dizziness or vertigo was reported. Three months after surgery, healing was achieved in all cases with a healthy painless skin. No cases of revision surgery for removal of the granules occurred in this study.Conclusion. The bioactive glass S53P4 is a well-tolerated biomaterial for primary or revision chronic otitis surgery, as shown by the local skin reaction which lasted less than 3 months and by the absence of labyrinthine complications.
The Expansion of CD25highIL-10highFoxP3highB Regulatory Cells Is in Association with SLE Disease Activity
Authors: Vadasz Zahava , Peri Regina , Eiza Nasren , Slobodin Gleb , Balbir-Gurman Alexandra , Toubi Elias
Published: October 2015

B regulatory cells (Bregs) belong to a subgroup of activated B cells tasked with maintaining self-tolerance and preventing autoimmunity. While sharing similar regulatory mechanisms such as IL-10 dependency, they also defer in exhibiting their suppressive effects by expressing Fas-Ligand, TGF-beta, and PDL-1. In this study we show, for the first time, the expansion ofCD25highFoxP3highBregs in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients compared to healthy individuals (18.5 ± 3.052% versus 11.0 ± 1.654%,p<0.001, resp.). This expansion was also shown to correlate with SLE disease activity (r=0.75). In addition,CD25highFoxP3highBregs were alsoIL-10highexpressing and further expanded when stimulated with semaphorin 3A. In sum we show thatCD25highFoxP3highare an additional subtype of Bregs, involved in regulating SLE disease activity. Being IL-10 expressing, we may assume that they are one of the sources of increased serum IL-10 in SLE patients. Further studies are required in order to assess the relation between high serum IL-10 andCD25highFoxP3highBreg cells.
Working Atmosphere and Job Satisfaction of Health Care Staff in Kenya: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Goetz Katja , Marx Michael , Marx Irmgard , Brodowski Marc , Nafula Maureen , Prytherch Helen , Omogi Awour Irene K. E. , Szecsenyi Joachim
Published: October 2015

Background. Job satisfaction and working atmosphere are important for optimal health care delivery. The study aimed to document working atmosphere and job satisfaction of health care professionals in Kenya and to explore associations between job satisfaction, staff characteristics, and working atmosphere.Methods. Data from the integrated quality management system (IQMS) for the health sector in Kenya were used. Job satisfaction was measured with 10 items and with additional 5 items adapted to job situation in Kenya. Working atmosphere was measured with 13 item questionnaire. A stepwise linear regression analysis was performed with overall job satisfaction and working atmosphere, aspects of job satisfaction, and individual characteristics.Results. Out of 832 questionnaires handed out, 435 questionnaires were completed (response rate: 52.3%). Health care staff indicated high commitment to provide quality services and low levels regarding the adequacy and functionality of equipment at their work station. The aspect “support of the ministry of health” (β= 0.577) showed the highest score of explained variance (32.9%) regarding overall job satisfaction.Conclusions. IQMS which also evaluates job satisfaction and working atmosphere of health care staff provides a good opportunity for strengthening the recruitment and retention of health care staff as well as improving the provision of good quality of care.
Pseudorandom Bit Sequence Generator for Stream Cipher Based on Elliptic Curves
Authors: Payingat Jilna , Pattathil Deepthi P.
Published: October 2015

This paper proposes a pseudorandom sequence generator for stream ciphers based on elliptic curves (EC). A detailed analysis of various EC based random number generators available in the literature is done and a new method is proposed such that it addresses the drawbacks of these schemes. Statistical analysis of the proposed method is carried out using the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) test suite and it is seen that the sequence exhibits good randomness properties. The linear complexity analysis shows that the system has a linear complexity equal to the period of the sequence which is highly desirable. The statistical complexity and security against known plain text attack are also analysed. A comparison of the proposed method with other EC based schemes is done in terms of throughput, periodicity, and security, and the proposed method outperforms the methods in the literature. For resource constrained applications where a highly secure key exchange is essential, the proposed method provides a good option for encryption by time sharing the point multiplication unit for EC based key exchange. The algorithm and architecture for implementation are developed in such a way that the hardware consumed in addition to point multiplication unit is much less.
Transverse Single-Spin Asymmetries in Proton-Proton Collisions at the AFTER@LHC Experiment
Authors: Kanazawa K. , Koike Y. , Metz A. , Pitonyak D.
Published: October 2015

We present results for transverse single-spin asymmetries in proton-proton collisions at kinematics relevant for AFTER, a proposed fixed-target experiment at the Large Hadron Collider. These include predictions for pion, jet, and direct photon production from analytical formulas already available in the literature. We also discuss specific measurements that will benefit from the higher luminosity of AFTER, which could help resolve an almost 40-year puzzle of what causes transverse single-spin asymmetries in proton-proton collisions.