bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Nonlinear Acoustooptic Coupling in Fiber Optics Based on Refractive Index Variation due to Local Bending
Authors: Castano Catalina Hurtado , Herrera Rodrigo Acuna , Torres Pedro I.
Published: September 2016

A detailed procedure is presented to compute analytically the acoustooptic coupling coefficient between copropagating core and lowest-order cladding modes in tapered fiber optics. Based on the effect of the local bending, the linear and nonlinear variations in the refractive index are modeled. A set of equations and parameters are presented in order to calculate the influence of acoustooptic effect in nonlinear pulse propagation. We will show that as the tapered fiber diameter decreases more energy can be transferred to the cladding and the nonlinear phenomena can compensate the coupling coefficients effects.
Pilot Study for Investigating the Cyclic Response of the Recentering Bridge Bearing System Combined with the Friction Damper
Authors: Hu Jong Wan , Cho Yong-il
Published: September 2016

The bridge bearing is one of the component members which provide resting supports between piers and decks. The bridge bearing is intended to control longitudinal movement caused by traffic flow and thermal expansion, thereby reducing stress concentration. In high seismicity area, the bridge bearing has been utilized as the base isolation system to mitigate acceleration transferred from the ground. Although the existing bridge bearing installed between superstructure and substructure provides extra flexibility to the base of the entire structure, considerable permanent deformation occurs due to lack of recentering capacity after earthquake. It is required to spend extra cost for repairing impaired parts. The bridge bearings integrated with superelastic shape memory alloy (SMA) devices used for upgrading the recentering effect into the friction damper are proposed in this study. The refined finite element (FE) analyses are introduced to reproduce the response of such new structures under cyclic loading condition. The bridge bearing systems that maintain uniform recentering capability are designed with various friction coefficients so as to examine energy dissipation and residual deformation through FE analyses. After observing FE analysis results, optimal design for the recentering bridge bearing system will be proposed to take advantage of energy dissipation and self-centering capacity.
A Multiple Classifier Fusion Algorithm Using Weighted Decision Templates
Authors: Mi Aizhong , Wang Lei , Qi Junyan
Published: September 2016

Fusing classifiers’ decisions can improve the performance of a pattern recognition system. Many applications areas have adopted the methods of multiple classifier fusion to increase the classification accuracy in the recognition process. From fully considering the classifier performance differences and the training sample information, a multiple classifier fusion algorithm using weighted decision templates is proposed in this paper. The algorithm uses a statistical vector to measure the classifier’s performance and makes a weighed transform on each classifier according to the reliability of its output. To make a decision, the information in the training samples around an input sample is used by thek-nearest-neighbor rule if the algorithm evaluates the sample as being highly likely to be misclassified. An experimental comparison was performed on 15 data sets from the KDD’99, UCI, and ELENA databases. The experimental results indicate that the algorithm can achieve better classification performance. Next, the algorithm was applied to cataract grading in the cataract ultrasonic phacoemulsification operation. The application result indicates that the proposed algorithm is effective and can meet the practical requirements of the operation.
Selective Induced Altered Coccidians to Immunize and Prevent Enteritis
Authors: Oz Helieh S.
Published: September 2016

Microbiomic flora in digestive tract is pivotal to the state of our health and disease. Antibiotics affect GI, control composition of microbiome, and shift equilibrium from health into disease status. Coccidiosis causes gastrointestinal inflammation. Antibiotic additives contaminate animal products and enter food chain, consumed by humans with possible allergic, antibiotic resistance and enigmatic side effects. Purposed study induced nonpathogenic, immunogenic organisms to protect against disease and abolish antibiotics’ use in food animals and side effects in man. Diverse species of Coccidia were used as model. Immature organisms were treated with serial purification procedure prior to developmental stages to obtain altered strains. Chicks received oral gavage immunized with serial low doses of normal or altered organisms or sham treatment and were challenged with high infective normal organisms to compare pathogenicity and immunogenicity. Mature induced altered forms ofE. tenellaandE. necatrixlacked developmental stage of “sporocysts” and contained free sporozoites. In contrast,E. maximaprogressed to normal forms or did not mature at all. Animals that received altered forms were considerably protected with higher weight gain and antibody titers against challenge infection compared to those that received normal organisms (p<0.05). This is the first report to induce selected protective altered organisms for possible preventive measures to minimize antibiotic use in food animals.
Multiple Sclerosis and Obesity: Possible Roles of Adipokines
Authors: Guerrero-García José de Jesús , Carrera-Quintanar Lucrecia , López-Roa Rocío Ivette , Márquez-Aguirre Ana Laura , Rojas-Mayorquín Argelia Esperanza , Ortuño-Sahagún Daniel
Published: September 2016

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder of the Central Nervous System that has been associated with several environmental factors, such as diet and obesity. The possible link between MS and obesity has become more interesting in recent years since the discovery of the remarkable properties of adipose tissue. Once MS is initiated, obesity can contribute to increased disease severity by negatively influencing disease progress and treatment response, but, also, obesity in early life is highly relevant as a susceptibility factor and causally related risk for late MS development. The aim of this review was to discuss recent evidence about the link between obesity, as a chronic inflammatory state, and the pathogenesis of MS as a chronic autoimmune and inflammatory disease. First, we describe the main cells involved in MS pathogenesis, both from neural tissue and from the immune system, and including a new participant, the adipocyte, focusing on their roles in MS. Second, we concentrate on the role of several adipokines that are able to participate in the mediation of the immune response in MS and on the possible cross talk between the latter. Finally, we explore recent therapy that involves the transplantation of adipocyte precursor cells for the treatment of MS.
Role of Endogenous Sulfur Dioxide in Regulating Vascular Structural Remodeling in Hypertension
Authors: Liu Jia , Huang Yaqian , Chen Selena , Tang Chaoshu , Jin Hongfang , Du Junbao
Published: September 2016

Sulfur dioxide (SO2), an emerging gasotransmitter, was discovered to be endogenously generated in the cardiovascular system. Recently, the physiological effects of endogenous SO2 were confirmed. Vascular structural remodeling (VSR), an important pathological change in many cardiovascular diseases, plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of the diseases. Here, the authors reviewed the research progress of endogenous SO2 in regulating VSR by searching the relevant data from PubMed and Medline. In spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and pulmonary hypertensive rats, SO2/aspartate aminotransferase (AAT) pathway was significantly altered. SO2 inhibited vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation, promoted apoptosis, inhibited the synthesis of extracellular collagen but promoted its degradation, and enhanced antioxidative capacity, thereby playing a significant role in attenuating VSR. However, the detailed mechanisms needed to be further explored. Further studies in this field would be important for the better understanding of the pathogenesis of systemic hypertension and pulmonary hypertension. Also, clinical trials are needed to demonstrate if SO2 would be a potential therapeutic target in cardiovascular diseases.
Existence of Mild Solutions to Nonlocal Fractional Cauchy Problems via Compactness
Authors: Ponce Rodrigo
Published: September 2016

We obtain characterizations of compactness for resolvent families of operators and as applications we study the existence of mild solutions to nonlocal Cauchy problems for fractional derivatives in Banach spaces. We discuss here simultaneously the Caputo and Riemann-Liouville fractional derivatives in the cases0<α<1and1<α<2.
Kinin Peptides Enhance Inflammatory and Oxidative Responses Promoting Apoptosis in a Parkinson’s Disease Cellular Model
Authors: Niewiarowska-Sendo Anna , Kozik Andrzej , Guevara-Lora Ibeth
Published: September 2016

Kinin peptides ubiquitously occur in nervous tissue and participate in inflammatory processes associated with distinct neurological disorders. These substances have also been demonstrated to promote the oxidative stress. On the other hand, the importance of oxidative stress and inflammation has been emphasized in disorders that involve the neurodegenerative processes such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). A growing number of reports have demonstrated the increased expression of kinin receptors in neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, the effect of bradykinin and des-Arg10-kallidin, two representative kinin peptides, was analyzed with respect to inflammatory response and induction of oxidative stress in a PD cellular model, obtained after stimulation of differentiated SK-N-SH cells with a neurotoxin, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium. Kinin peptides caused an increased cytokine release and enhanced production of reactive oxygen species and NO by cells. These changes were accompanied by a loss of cell viability and a greater activation of caspases involved in apoptosis progression. Moreover, the neurotoxin and kinin peptides altered the dopamine receptor 2 expression. Kinin receptor expression was also changed by the neurotoxin. These results suggest a mediatory role of kinin peptides in the development of neurodegeneration and may offer new possibilities for its regulation by using specific antagonists of kinin receptors.
Elucidating the Potential of Native Rhizobial Isolates to Improve Biological Nitrogen Fixation and Growth of Common Bean and Soybean in Smallholder Farming Systems of Kenya
Authors: Ouma Ernest Wandera , Asango Anne Mercy , Maingi John , Njeru Ezekiel Mugendi
Published: September 2016

Identification of effective indigenous rhizobia isolates would lead to development of efficient and affordable rhizobia inoculants. These can promote nitrogen fixation in smallholder farming systems of Kenya. To realize this purpose, two experiments were conducted under greenhouse conditions using two common bean cultivars; Mwezi moja (bush type) and Mwitemania (climbing type) along with soybean cultivar SB 8. In the first experiment, the common bean cultivars were treated with rhizobia inoculants including a consortium of native isolates, commercial isolate (CIAT 899), a mixture of native isolates and CIAT 899, and a control with no inoculation. After 30 days, the crop was assessed for nodulation, shoot and root dry weights, and morphological features. In the second experiment, soybean was inoculated with a consortium of native isolates, commercial inoculant (USDA 110), and a mixture of commercial and native isolates. Remarkably, the native isolates significantly (p<0.001) increased nodulation and shoot dry weight across the two common bean varieties compared to the commercial inoculant, CIAT 899. Mixing of the native rhizobia species and commercial inoculant did not show any further increase in nodulation and shoot performance in both crops. Further field studies will ascertain the effectiveness and efficiency of the tested indigenous isolates.
An Unexpected Airway Complication in a Male Patient with Goltz Syndrome
Authors: Smith Sadie , Gadhok Kavita , Guvakov Dmitri
Published: September 2016

Goltz syndrome, also known as focal dermal hypoplasia, is a rare X-linked dominant multisystem syndrome presenting with cutaneous, skeletal, dental ocular, central nervous system and soft tissue abnormalities. This case report discusses an adult male patient with Goltz syndrome that was noted to have large, papillomatous, hypopharyngeal lesions upon induction of general anesthesia. We highlight challenges with airway management intraoperatively and postoperatively in patients with Goltz syndrome. Our aim is to increase awareness of the potential airway complications associated with this genetic disorder and to provide suggestions for optimal perioperative management for patients afflicted with Goltz syndrome.
Adaptive Command-Filtered Backstepping Control for Linear Induction Motor via Projection Algorithm
Authors: Yan Wenxu , Huang Jie , Xu Dezhi
Published: September 2016

A theoretical framework of the position control for linear induction motors (LIM) has been proposed. First, indirect field-oriented control of LIM is described. Then, the backstepping approach is used to ensure the convergence and robustness of the proposed control scheme against the external time-varying disturbances via Lyapunov stability theory. At the same time, in order to solve the differential expansion and the control saturation problems in the traditional backstepping, command filter is designed in the control and compensating signals are presented to eliminate the influence of the errors caused by command filters. Next, unknown total mass of the mover, viscous friction, and load disturbances are estimated by the projection-based adaptive law which bounds the estimated function and simultaneously guarantees the robustness of the proposed controller against the parameter uncertainties. Finally, simulation results are given to illustrate the validity and potential of the designed control scheme.
Influence of Halide Solutions on Collagen Networks: Measurements of Physical Properties by Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Spitzer-Sonnleitner Birgit , Kempe André , Lackner Maximilian
Published: September 2016

The influence of aqueous halide solutions on collagen coatings was tested. The effects on resistance against indentation/penetration on adhesion forces were measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and the change of Young’s modulus of the coating was derived. Comparative measurements over time were conducted with halide solutions of various concentrations. Physical properties of the mesh-like coating generally showed large variability. Starting with a compact set of physical properties, data disperse after minutes. A trend of increase in elasticity and permeability was found for all halide solutions. These changes were largest in NaI, displaying a logical trend with ion size. However a correlation with concentration was not measured. Adhesion properties were found to be independent of mechanical properties. The paper also presents practical experience for AFM measurements of soft tissue under liquids, particularly related to data evaluation. The weakening in physical strength found after exposure to halide solutions may be interpreted as widening of the network structure or change in the chemical properties in part of the collagen fibres (swelling). In order to design customized surface coatings at optimized conditions also for medical applications, halide solutions might be used as agents with little impact on the safety of patients.
Modelling Analysis of Forestry Input-Output Elasticity in China
Authors: Wang Guofeng , Chen Jiancheng , Deng Xiangzheng
Published: September 2016

Based on an extended economic model and space econometrics, this essay analyzed the spatial distributions and interdependent relationships of the production of forestry in China; also the input-output elasticity of forestry production were calculated. Results figure out there exists significant spatial correlation in forestry production in China. Spatial distribution is mainly manifested as spatial agglomeration. The output elasticity of labor force is equal to 0.6649, and that of capital is equal to 0.8412. The contribution of land is significantly negative. Labor and capital are the main determinants for the province-level forestry production in China. Thus, research on the province-level forestry production should not ignore the spatial effect. The policy-making process should take into consideration the effects between provinces on the production of forestry. This study provides some scientific technical support for forestry production.
How to Make Feedback More Effective? Qualitative Findings from Pilot Testing of an Audit and Feedback Report for Endoscopists
Authors: Webster Fiona , Patel Jigisha , Rice Kathleen , Baxter Nancy , Paszat Lawrence , Rabeneck Linda , Tinmouth Jill
Published: September 2016

Background. Audit and feedback (A/F) reports are one of the few knowledge translation activities that can effect change in physician behavior. In this study, we pilot-tested an endoscopist A/F report to elicit opinions about the proposed report’s usability, acceptability and usefulness, and implications for knowledge translation.Methods. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with eleven endoscopists in Ontario, Canada. We tested an A/F report template comprising 9 validated, accepted colonoscopy quality indicators populated with simulated data. Interview transcripts were coded using techniques such as constant comparison and themes were identified inductively over several team meetings.Results. Four interrelated themes were identified: (1) overall perceptions of the A/F report; (2) accountability and consequences for poor performance; (3) motivation to change/improve skills; and (4) training for performance enhancement and available resources. The A/F report was well received; however, participants cited some possible threats to the report’s effectiveness including the perceived threat of loss of privileges or licensing and the potential for the data to be dismissed.Conclusions. Participants agreed that A/F has the potential to improve colonoscopy performance. However, in order to be effective in changing physician behavior, A/F must be thoughtfully implemented with attention to the potential concerns of its recipients.
Quantitative Analysis of Apisin, a Major Protein Unique to Royal Jelly
Authors: Furusawa Takako , Arai Yasuko , Kato Kenji , Ichihara Kenji
Published: September 2016

Apisin, a protein that is unique to royal jelly (RJ), is known to compose the greater part of the RJ proteins and to exist as a heterooligomer containing major royal jelly protein 1 and apisimin. However, few reports on the methods for quantifying apisin have been published. Thus, we attempted to quantify apisin using HPLC, a widely used analytical technique, as described below. Isoelectric precipitation and size‐exclusion chromatography were used to obtain the purified protein, which was identified as apisin by SDS‐PAGE and LC‐MS analyses. The purified apisin was lyophilized and then used to generate a calibration curve to quantify apisin in RJ. The apisin content was fairly constant (i.e., 3.93 to 4.67 w/w%) in natural RJ. This study is the first to describe a simple, standardized method for quantifying apisin using HPLC and suggests that apisin can be used as a benchmark for future evaluations of RJ quality.
Convergence Theorems for BregmanK-Mappings and Mixed Equilibrium Problems in Reflexive Banach Spaces
Authors: Ali Bashir , Harbau M. H.
Published: September 2016

We introduce a new mixed equilibrium problem with a relaxed monotone mapping in a reflexive Banach space and prove the existence of solution of the equilibrium problem. Using Bregman distance, we introduce the concept of BregmanK-mapping for a finite family of Bregman quasiasymptotically nonexpansive mappings and show the fixed point set of the BregmanK-mapping is the set of common fixed points of{Ti}i=1N. Using the BregmanK-mapping, we introduce an iterative sequence for finding a common point in the set of a common fixed points of the finite family of Bregman quasiasymptotically nonexpansive mappings and the set of solutions of some mixed equilibrium problems. Strong convergence of the iterative sequence is proved. Our results generalise and improve many recent results in the literature.
Generalized Jensen-Mercer Inequality for Functions with Nondecreasing Increments
Authors: Khan Asif R. , Saadi Sumayyah
Published: September 2016

In the year 2003, McD Mercer established an interesting variation of Jensen’s inequality and later in 2009 Mercer’s result was generalized to higher dimensions by M. Niezgoda. Recently, Asif et al. has stated an integral version of Niezgoda’s result for convex functions. We further generalize Niezgoda’s integral result for functions with nondecreasing increments and give some refinements with applications. In the way, we generalize an important result, Jensen-Boas inequality, using functions with nondecreasing increments. These results would constitute a valuable addition to Jensen-type inequalities in the literature.
Incentive Mechanism Design Aiming at Deflated Performance Manipulation in Retail Firms: Based on the Ratchet Effect and the Reputation Effect
Authors: Luo Biao , Wang Chengyuan , Li ChunYi
Published: September 2016

Store managers in retail firms are often offered a performance-based compensation scheme accompanied with a performance target by the headquarters. The headquarters adjusts the performance target based on store managers’ historical performance and therefore generates the ratchet effect. Consequently, store managers may downward manipulate performance, that is, deflated performance manipulation, so as to weasel out of target growth and smooth performance growth. However, the reputation effect that seeks fame by store managers can restrain deflated performance manipulation. We model a dynamic agency setting in which both the ratchet effect and the reputation effect are related to the store manager’s compensation scheme, and the store manager has to balance her effort and deflated performance manipulation. Our findings reveal that the ratchet effect and environmental volatility jointly determine the existence of deflated performance manipulation, yet the reputation effect can restrain it with increasing environmental volatility. In addition, deflated performance manipulation is inevitable when environmental volatility is large enough, and explicit incentives may promote deflated performance manipulation.
Biobjective VoIP Service Management in Cloud Infrastructure
Authors: Cortés-Mendoza Jorge M. , Tchernykh Andrei , Armenta-Cano Fermin A. , Bouvry Pascal , Drozdov Alexander Yu. , Didelot Loic
Published: September 2016

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) allows communication of voice and/or data over the internet in less expensive and reliable manner than traditional ISDN systems. This solution typically allows flexible interconnection between organization and companies on any domains. Cloud VoIP solutions can offer even cheaper and scalable service when virtualized telephone infrastructure is used in the most efficient way. Scheduling and load balancing algorithms are fundamental parts of this approach. Unfortunately, VoIP scheduling techniques do not take into account uncertainty in dynamic and unpredictable cloud environments. In this paper, we formulate the problem of scheduling of VoIP services in distributed cloud environments and propose a new model for biobjective optimization. We consider the special case of the on-line nonclairvoyant dynamic bin-packing problem and discuss solutions for provider cost and quality of service optimization. We propose twenty call allocation strategies and evaluate their performance by comprehensive simulation analysis on real workload considering six months of the MIXvoip company service.
Designing a Repetitive Group Sampling Plan for Weibull Distributed Processes
Authors: Yan Aijun , Liu Sanyang
Published: September 2016

Acceptance sampling plans are useful tools to determine whether the submitted lots should be accepted or rejected. An efficient and economic sampling plan is very desirable for the high quality levels required by the production processes. The process capability indexCLis an important quality parameter to measure the product quality. Utilizing the relationship between theCLindex and the nonconforming rate, a repetitive group sampling (RGS) plan based onCLindex is developed in this paper when the quality characteristic follows the Weibull distribution. The optimal plan parameters of the proposed RGS plan are determined by satisfying the commonly used producer’s risk and consumer’s risk at the same time by minimizing the average sample number (ASN) and then tabulated for different combinations of acceptance quality level (AQL) and limiting quality level (LQL). The results show that the proposed plan has better performance than the single sampling plan in terms of ASN. Finally, the proposed RGS plan is illustrated with an industrial example.
Convergence Analysis on Unstructured Meshes of a DDFV Method for Flow Problems with Full Neumann Boundary Conditions
Authors: Kinfack Jeutsa A. , Njifenjou A. , Nganhou J.
Published: September 2016

A Discrete Duality Finite Volume (DDFV) method to solve on unstructured meshes the flow problems in anisotropic nonhomogeneous porous media with full Neumann boundary conditions is proposed in the present work. We start with the derivation of the discrete problem. A result of existence and uniqueness of a solution for that problem is given thanks to the properties of its associated matrix combined with adequate assumptions on data. Their theoretical properties, namely, stability and error estimates (in discrete energy norms andL2-norm), are investigated. Numerical test is provided.
Cochlear Synaptopathy and Noise-Induced Hidden Hearing Loss
Authors: Shi Lijuan , Chang Ying , Li Xiaowei , Aiken Steve , Liu Lijie , Wang Jian
Published: September 2016

Recent studies on animal models have shown that noise exposure that does not lead to permanent threshold shift (PTS) can cause considerable damage around the synapses between inner hair cells (IHCs) and type-I afferent auditory nerve fibers (ANFs). Disruption of these synapses not only disables the innervated ANFs but also results in the slow degeneration of spiral ganglion neurons if the synapses are not reestablished. Such a loss of ANFs should result in signal coding deficits, which are exacerbated by the bias of the damage toward synapses connecting low-spontaneous-rate (SR) ANFs, which are known to be vital for signal coding in noisy background. As there is no PTS, these functional deficits cannot be detected using routine audiological evaluations and may be unknown to subjects who have them. Such functional deficits in hearing without changes in sensitivity are generally called “noise-induced hidden hearing loss (NIHHL).” Here, we provide a brief review to address several critical issues related to NIHHL: (1) the mechanism of noise induced synaptic damage, (2) reversibility of the synaptic damage, (3) the functional deficits as the nature of NIHHL in animal studies, (4) evidence of NIHHL in human subjects, and (5) peripheral and central contribution of NIHHL.
Copyrolysis of Biomass and Coal: A Review of Effects of Copyrolysis Parameters, Product Properties, and Synergistic Mechanisms
Authors: Quan Cui , Gao Ningbo
Published: September 2016

Concerns in the last few decades regarding the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the dependence on fossil fuels have resulted in calls for more renewable and alternative energy sources. This has led to recent interest in copyrolysis of biomass and coal. Numerous reviews have been found related to individual pyrolysis of coal and biomass. This review deals mainly with the copyrolysis of coal and biomass and then compares their results with those obtained using coal and biomass pyrolysis in detail. It is controversial whether there are synergistic or additive behaviours when coal and biomass are blended during copyrolysis. In this review, the effects of reaction parameters such as feedstock types, blending ratio, heating rate, temperature, and reactor types on the occurrence of synergy are discussed. Also, the main properties of the copyrolytic products are pointed out. Some possible synergistic mechanisms are also suggested. Additionally, several outlooks based on studies in the literature are also presented in this paper.
Lymphoepithelial Cyst in the Palatine Tonsil
Authors: Bingöl Fatih , Balta Hilal , Bingöl Buket Özel , Mazlumoğlu Recai Muhammet , Kılıç Korhan
Published: September 2016

Lymphoepithelial cyst (LEC) is the most commonly encountered congenital neck pathology in the lateral part of the neck. A 66-year-old woman presented to the ENT clinic due to difficulty in swallowing persisting for approximately 1 year. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a cystic mass at right tonsil. Surgery was performed due to this unilateral tonsillar mass, which was excised together with the right tonsil. LEC was diagnosed at histopathological examination. LEC in the palatine tonsil is rare, and only a few cases have been reported in the literature. We report a rare case of LEC in the palatine tonsil.
Comparison of Different Independent Component Analysis Algorithms for Output-Only Modal Analysis
Authors: Wang Jianying , Wang Cheng , Zhang Tianshu , Zhong Bineng
Published: September 2016

From the principle of independent component analysis (ICA) and the uncertainty of amplitude, order, and number of source signals, this paper expounds the root reasons for modal energy uncertainty, identified order uncertainty, and modal missing in output-only modal analysis based on ICA methods. Aiming at the problem of lack of comparison and evaluation of different ICA algorithms for output-only modal analysis, this paper studies the different objective functions and optimization methods of ICA for output-only modal parameter identification. Simulation results on simply supported beam verify the effectiveness, robustness, and convergence rate of five different ICA algorithms for output-only modal parameters identification and show that maximization negentropy with quasi-Newton iterative of ICA method is more suitable for modal parameter identification.
Relative Efficacy of Liquid Nitrogen Fertilizers in Dryland Spring Wheat
Authors: Walsh Olga S. , Christiaens Robin J.
Published: September 2016

The study was conducted in 2012 and 2013 at three locations in North Central and Western Montana (total of 6 site-years) to evaluate the relative efficacy of three liquid nitrogen (N) fertilizer sources, urea ammonium nitrate (UAN, 32-0-0), liquid urea (LU, 21-0-0), and High NRGN (HNRGN, 27-0-0-1S), in spring wheat (Triticum aestivumL.). In addition to at-seeding urea application at 90 kg N ha−1to all treatments (except for the unfertilized check plot), the liquid fertilizers were applied utilizing an all-terrain vehicle- (ATV-) mounted stream-bar equipped sprayer at a rate of 45 kg N ha−1at Feekes 5 growth stage (early tillering). Three dilution ratios of fertilizer to water were accessed: 100/0 (undiluted), 66/33, and 33/66. The effects of N source and the dilution ratio (fertilizer/water) on N uptake (NUp), N use efficiency (NUE), spring wheat grain yield (GY), grain protein (GP) content, and protein yield (PY) were assessed. The dilution ratios had no effect on GY, GP, PY, NUp, and NUE at any of the site-years in this study. Taking into account agronomic and economic factors, LU can be recommended as the most suitable liquid N fertilizer source for spring wheat cropping systems of the Northern Great Plains.
Elevated Expression of Programmed Death-1 and Programmed Death Ligand-1 Negatively Regulates Immune Response against Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Chen Zhifang , Pang Nannan , Du Rong , Zhu Yuejie , Fan Lingling , Cai Donghui , Ding Yan , Ding Jianbing
Published: September 2016

The present study is to measure the expression of programmed death-1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1), as well as its clinical significance in cervical cancer patients. Our results showed that different T cell subsets in patients with cervical cancer had high expression of PD-1, and DCs had high expression of PD-L1. High expression of PD-1 on Treg cells in cervical cancer patients facilitated the production of TGF-βand IL-10 but inhibited the production of IFN-γ. Cervical cancer elevated the expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 in mRNA level. PD-1 expression in peripheral blood of cervical cancer patients was related with tumor differentiation, lymph node metastasis, and invasiveness. PD-1/PD-L1 pathway inhibited lymphocyte proliferation but enhanced the secretion of IL-10 and TGF-βin vitro. In summary, our findings demonstrate that elevated levels of PD-1/PD-L1, TGF-β, and IL-10 in peripheral blood of cervical cancer patients may negatively regulate immune response against cervical cancer cells and contribute to the progression of cervical cancer. Therefore, PD-1/PD-L1 pathway may become an immunotherapy target in the future.
Isolated Male Epispadias: Anatomic Functional Restoration Is the Primary Goal
Authors: Spinoit Anne-Francoise , Claeys Tom , Bruneel Elke , Ploumidis Achilles , Van Laecke Erik , Hoebeke Piet
Published: September 2016

Background. Isolated male epispadias (IME) is a rare congenital penile malformation, as often part of bladder-exstrophy-epispadias complex (BEEC). In its isolated presentation, it consists in a defect of the dorsal aspect of the penis, leaving the urethral plate open. Occurrence of urinary incontinence is related to the degree of dorsal displacement of the meatus and the underlying underdevelopment of the urethral sphincter. The technique for primary IME reconstruction, based on anatomic restoration of the urethra and bladder neck, is here illustrated.Patients and Methods. A retrospective database was created with patients who underwent primary IME repair between June 1998 and February 2014. Intraoperative variables, postoperative complications, and outcomes were assessed. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed.Results and Limitations. Eight patients underwent primary repair, with penopubic epispadias (PPE) in 3, penile epispadias (PE) in 2, and glandular epispadias (GE) in 3. Median age at surgery was 13.0 months [7–47]; median follow-up was 52 months [9–120]. Complications requiring further surgery were reported in two patients, while further esthetic surgeries were required in 4 patients.Conclusion. Anatomical restoration in primary IME is safe and effective, with acceptable results given the initial pathology.
A Decoupling Control Strategy for Multilayer Register System in Printed Electronic Equipment
Authors: Liu Shanhui , Yin Bingzheng , Ma Li’e , Xu Hongwei , Zhu Geshun
Published: September 2016

Register accuracy is an important index to evaluate the quality of electronic products printed by gravure printed electronic equipment. However, the complex relationships of multilayer register system make the problem of decoupling control difficult to be solved, which has limited the improvement of register accuracy for the gravure printed electronic equipment. Therefore, this paper presents an integrated decoupling control strategy based on feedforward control and active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) to solve the strong coupling, strong interference, and time-delay problems of multilayer register system. First of all, a coupling and nonlinear model is established according to the multilayer register working principle in gravure printing, and then a linear model of the register system is derived based on the perturbation method. Secondly, according to the linear model, a decoupling control strategy is designed based on feedforward control and ADRC for the multilayer register system. Finally, the results of computer simulation show that the proposed control methodology can realize a decoupling control and has good control performance for multilayer register system.
Infusion of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuates Experimental Severe Acute Pancreatitis in Rats
Authors: Zhao Hang , He Zhiying , Huang Dandan , Gao Jun , Gong Yanfang , Wu Hongyu , Xu Aifang , Meng Xiangjun , Li Zhaoshen
Published: September 2016

Background & Aims. Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) remains a high‐mortality disease. Bone marrow (BM) mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been demonstrated to have plasticity of transdifferentiation and to have immunomodulatory functions. In the present study, we assessed the roles of MSCs in SAP and the therapeutic effects of MSC on SAP after transplantation. Methods. A pancreatitis rat model was induced by the injection of taurocholic acid (TCA) into the pancreatic duct. After isolation and characterization of MSC from BM, MSC transplantation was conducted 24 hrs after SAP induction by tail vein injection. The survival rate was observed and MSCs were traced after transplantation. The expression of TNF‐α and IL‐1β mRNA in the transplantation group was also analyzed. Results. The survival rate of the transplantation group was significantly higher compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Infused MSCs were detected in the pancreas and BM 3 days after transplantation. The expression of TNF‐α and IL‐1β mRNA in the transplantation group was significantly lower than in the control group in both the pancreas and the lungs (p < 0.05). Conclusions. MSC transplantation could improve the prognosis of SAP rats. Engrafted MSCs have the capacity of homing, migration, and planting during the treatment of SAP.
Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils ofTagetes minuta(Asteraceae) against Selected Plant Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Gakuubi Martin Muthee , Wagacha John M. , Dossaji Saifuddin F. , Wanzala Wycliffe
Published: September 2016

The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition and antibacterial activity of essential oils (EOs) ofTagetes minutaagainst three phytopathogenic bacteriaPseudomonas savastanoipv.phaseolicola,Xanthomonas axonopodispv.phaseoli, andXanthomonas axonopodispv.manihotis. The essential oils were extracted using steam distillation method in a modified Clevenger-type apparatus while antibacterial activity of the EOs was evaluated by disc diffusion method. Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was used for analysis of the chemical profile of the EOs. Twenty compounds corresponding to 96% of the total essential oils were identified with 70% and 30% of the identified components being monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, respectively. The essential oils ofT. minutarevealed promising antibacterial activities against the test pathogens withPseudomonas savastanoipv.phaseolicolabeing the most susceptible with mean inhibition zone diameters of 41.83 and 44.83 mm after 24 and 48 hours, respectively.The minimum inhibitory concentrations and minimum bactericidal concentrations of the EOs on the test bacteria were in the ranges of 24–48 mg/mL and 95–190 mg/mL, respectively. These findings provide a scientific basis for the use ofT. minutaessential oils as a botanical pesticide for management of phytopathogenic bacteria.
The Fruit Hull of Gleditsia sinensis Enhances the Anti‐Tumor Effect of cis‐Diammine Dichloridoplatinum II (Cisplatin)
Authors: Kim Kyun Ha , Han Chang-Woo , Yoon Seong Hoon , Kim Yun Seong , Kim Jong-In , Joo Myungsoo , Choi Jun-Yong
Published: September 2016

Lung cancer has substantial mortality worldwide, and chemotherapy is a routine regimen for the treatment of patients with lung cancer, despite undesirable effects such as drug resistance and chemotoxicity. Here, given a possible antitumor effect of the fruit hull of Gleditsia sinensis (FGS), we tested whether FGS enhances the effectiveness of cis‐diammine dichloridoplatinum (II) (CDDP), a chemotherapeutic drug. We found that CDDP, when administered with FGS, significantly decreased the viability and increased the apoptosis and cell cycle arrest of Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells, which were associated with the increase of p21 and decreases of cyclin D1 and CDK4. Concordantly, when combined with FGS, CDDP significantly reduced the volume and weight of tumors derived from LLC subcutaneously injected into C57BL/6 mice, with concomitant increases of phosphor‐p53 and p21 in tumor tissue. Together, these results show that FGS could enhance the antitumor activity of CDDP, suggesting that FGS can be used as a complementary measure to enhance the efficacy of a chemotherapeutic agent such as CDDP.
Routing Algorithm with Uneven Clustering for Energy Heterogeneous Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Ying , Xiong Wei , Han Dezhi , Chen Wei , Wang Jun
Published: September 2016

Aiming at the “hotspots” problem in energy heterogeneous wireless sensor networks, a routing algorithm of heterogeneous sensor network with multilevel energies based on uneven clustering is proposed. In this algorithm, the energy heterogeneity of the nodes is fully reflected in the mechanism of cluster-heads’ election. It optimizes the competition radius of the cluster-heads according to the residual energy of the nodes. This kind of uneven clustering prolongs the lifetime of the cluster-heads with lower residual energies or near the sink nodes. In data transmission stage, the hybrid multihop transmission mode is adopted, and the next-hop routing election fully takes account of the factors of residual energies and the distances among the nodes. The simulation results show that the introduction of an uneven clustering mechanism and the optimization of competition radius of the cluster-heads significantly prolonged the lifetime of the network and improved the efficiency of data transmission.
The Protocol of Choice for Treatment of Snake Bite
Authors: Mohammad Alizadeh Afshin , Hassanian-Moghaddam Hossein , Zamani Nasim , Rahimi Mitra , Mashayekhian Mohammad , Hashemi Domeneh Behrooz , Erfantalab Peyman , Ostadi Ali
Published: September 2016

The aim of the current study is to compare three different methods of treatment of snake bite to determine the most efficient one. To unify the protocol of snake bite treatment in our center, we retrospectively reviewed files of the snake-bitten patients who had been referred to us between 2010 and 2014. They were contacted for follow-up using phone calls. Demographic and on-arrival characteristics, protocol used for treatment (WHO/Haddad/GF), and outcome/complications were evaluated. Patients were entered into one of the protocol groups and compared. Of a total of 63 patients, 56 (89%) were males. Five, 19, and 28 patients were managed by Haddad, WHO, or GF protocols, respectively. Eleven patients had fallen into both GF and WHO protocols and were excluded. Serum sickness was significantly more common when WHO protocol was used while 100% of the compartment syndromes and 71% of deformities had been reported after GF protocol. The most important complications were considered to be deformity, compartment syndrome, and amputation and were more frequent after the use of WHO and GF protocols (23.1% versus 76.9%; none in Haddad;P= NS). Haddad protocol seems to be the best for treatment of snake-bitten patients in our region. However, this cannot be strictly concluded because of the limited sample size and nonsignificantPvalues.
Predictors of Relapse after Inpatient Opioid Detoxification during 1-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Chalana Harsh , Kundal Tanu , Gupta Varun , Malhari Amandeep Singh
Published: September 2016

Introduction. Relapse rate after opioid detoxification is very high. We studied the possibility that predetoxification patient characteristics might predict relapse at follow-up and thus conducted this 1-year follow-up study to assess the predictors of relapse after inpatient opioid detoxification.Materials and Methods. We conducted this study in our tertiary care institute in India over two-year time period (1 Jan 2014 to 31 Dec 2015). Out of 581 patients admitted, 466 patients were considered for study.Results and Discussion. No significant difference was found between relapsed and nonrelapsed patients regarding sociodemographic profile; however substance abuse pattern and forensic history showed significant differences. Relapsed patients abused greater amount and used injections more commonly, as compared to nonrelapsed group. Longer duration of abuse was also a significant risk factor. Patients with past attempt of opioid detoxification and family history (parental or first degree) of alcohol abuse had decreased possibility of maintaining remission during 1-year follow-up. Relapsed patients were found to abuse their spouse or parents.Conclusion. Our study compared profiles of relapsed and nonrelapsed patients after inpatient detoxification and concluded predictors of relapse during 1-year follow-up period. Early identification of predictors of relapse and hence high risk patients might be helpful in designing more effective and focused treatment plan.
Effect on Insulin-Stimulated Release of D-Chiro-Inositol-Containing Inositolphosphoglycan Mediator during Weight Loss in Obese Women with and without Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Cheang Kai I. , Sistrun Sakita N. , Morel Kelley S. , Nestler John E.
Published: September 2016

Background.A deficiency of D-chiro-inositol-inositolphosphoglycan mediator (DCI-IPG) may contribute to insulin resistance in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Whether the relationship between impaired DCI-IPG release and insulin resistance is specific to PCOS rather than obesity is unknown. We assessed insulin-released DCI-IPG and its relationship to insulin sensitivity at baseline and after weight loss in obese women with and without PCOS.Methods.Obese PCOS (n=16) and normal (n=15) women underwent 8 weeks of a hypocaloric diet. The Matsuda index, area under the curve DCI-IPG (AUCDCI-IPG),AUCinsulin, andAUCDCI-IPG/AUCinsulinwere measured during a 2 hr OGTT at baseline and 8 weeks.Results.PCOS women had lowerAUCDCI-IPG/AUCinsulinat baseline and a significant relationship betweenAUCDCI-IPG/AUCinsulinand Matsuda index (p=0.0003), which was not present in controls. Weight loss was similar between PCOS (−4.08 kg) and normal women (−4.29 kg,p=0.6281). Weight loss in PCOS women did not change the relationship betweenAUCDCI-IPG/AUCinsulinand Matsuda index (p=0.0100), and this relationship remained absent in control women.Conclusion.The association betweenAUCDCI-IPG/AUCinsulinand insulin sensitivity was only found in PCOS but not in normal women, and this relationship was unaffected by weight loss. DCI and its messenger may contribute to insulin resistance in PCOS independent of obesity.
Using Innovative Acoustic Analysis to Predict the Postoperative Outcomes of Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis
Authors: Tsou Yung-An , Liu Yi-Wen , Chang Wen-Dien , Chen Wei-Chen , Ke Hsiang-Chun , Lin Wen-Yang , Yang Hsing-Rong , Shie Dung-Yun , Tsai Ming-Hsui
Published: September 2016

Objective.Autologous fat injection laryngoplasty is ineffective for some patients with iatrogenic vocal fold paralysis, and additional laryngeal framework surgery is often required. An acoustically measurable outcome predictor for lipoinjection laryngoplasty would assist phonosurgeons in formulating treatment strategies.Methods.Seventeen thyroid surgery patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis participated in this study. All subjects underwent lipoinjection laryngoplasty to treat postsurgery vocal hoarseness. After treatment, patients were assigned to success and failure groups on the basis of voice improvement. Linear prediction analysis was used to construct a new voice quality indicator, the number of irregular peaks (NIrrP). It compared with the measures used in the Multi-Dimensional Voice Program (MDVP), such as jitter (frequency perturbation) and shimmer (perturbation of amplitude).Results.By comparing the [i] vowel produced by patients before the lipoinjection laryngoplasty (AUC = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.78–0.99), NIrrP was shown to be a more accurate predictor of long-term surgical outcomes than jitter (AUC = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.47–0.91) and shimmer (AUC = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.37–0.85), as identified by the receiver operating characteristic curve.Conclusions.NIrrP measured using the LP model could be a more accurate outcome predictor than the parameters used in the MDVP.