bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Chip-Based Salinity Measurements for Small Submersibles and Biologgers
Authors: Jonsson Jonas , Smedfors Katarina , Nyholm Leif , Thornell Greger
Published: November 2013

Water’s salinity plays an important role in the environment. It can be determined by measuring conductivity, temperature, and depth (CTD). The corresponding sensor systems are commonly large and cumbersome. Here, a 7.5 × 3.5 mm chip, containing microstructured CTD sensor elements, has been developed. On this, 1.5 mm2 gold finger electrodes are used to measure the impedance, and thereby the conductivity of water, in the MHz frequency range. Operation at these frequencies resulted in higher sensitivities than those at sub-MHz frequencies. Up to 14 kΩ per parts per thousand salt concentration was obtained repeatedly for freshwater concentrations. This was three orders of magnitude higher than that obtained for concentrations in and above the brackish range. A platinum electrode is used to determine a set ambient temperature with an accuracy of 0.005°C. Membranes with Nichrome strain gauges responded to a pressure change of 1 bar with a change in resistance of up to 0.21 Ω. A linear fit to data over 7 bars gave a sensitivity of 0.1185 Ω/bar with an R2 of 0.9964. This indicates that the described device can be used in size-limited applications, like miniaturized submersibles, or as a bio-logger on marine animals.
Characterizing Pairwise Social Relationships Quantitatively: Interest-Oriented Mobility Modeling for Human Contacts in Delay Tolerant Networks
Authors: Chen Jiaxu , Tang Yazhe , Hu Chengchen , Wang Guijuan
Published: November 2013

Human mobility modeling has increasingly drawn the attention of researchers working on wireless mobile networks such as delay tolerant networks (DTNs) in the last few years. So far, a number of human mobility models have been proposed to reproduce people’s social relationships, which strongly affect people’s daily life movement behaviors. However, most of them are based on the granularity of community. This paper presents interest-oriented human contacts (IHC) mobility model, which can reproduce social relationships on a pairwise granularity. As well, IHC provides two methods to generate input parameters (interest vectors) based on the social interaction matrix of target scenarios. By comparing synthetic data generated by IHC with three different real traces, we validate our model as a good approximation for human mobility. Exhaustive experiments are also conducted to show that IHC can predict well the performance of routing protocols.
Robust Stability and Stabilization for Singular Time-Delay Systems with Linear Fractional Uncertainties: A Strict LMI Approach
Authors: Lin Jinxing , Rong Lina
Published: November 2013

This paper is concerned with the problems of delay-dependent robust stability and stabilization for a class of continuous singular systems with time-varying delay in range and parametric uncertainties. The parametric uncertainties are assumed to be of a linear fractional form, which includes the norm bounded uncertainty as a special case and can describe a class of rational nonlinearities. In terms of strict linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), delay-range-dependent robust stability criteria for the unforced system are presented. Moreover, a strict LMI design approach is developed such that, when the LMI is feasible, a desired state feedback stabilizing controller can be constructed, which guarantees that, for all admissible uncertainties, the closed-loop dynamics will be regular, impulse free, and robustly asymptotically stable. Numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Risk-Averse Newsvendor Model with Strategic Consumer Behavior
Authors: Wang Tie , Hu Qiying
Published: November 2013

The classic newsvendor problem focuses on maximizing the expected profit or minimizing the expected cost when the newsvendor faces myopic customers. However, it ignores the customer’s bargain-hunting behavior and risk preference measure of the newsvendor. As a result, we carry out the rational expectation (RE) equilibrium analysis for risk-averse newsvendor facing forward-looking customers who anticipate future sales and choose purchasing timing to maximize their expected surplus. We propose the equations satisfied by the RE equilibrium price and quantity for the risk-averse retailer in general setting and the explicit equilibrium decisions for the case where demand follows the uniform distribution and utility is a general power function. We identify the impacts of the system parameters on the RE equilibrium for this specific situation. In particular, we show that the RE equilibrium price for some risk-averse newsvendors is lower than for a risk-neutral retailer and the RE equilibrium stocking quantity for some risk-averse newsvendors is higher than for a risk-neutral retailer. We also find that the RE equilibrium sale price for a risk-averse newsvendor is decreasing in salvage price in some situations.
A Novel Absorbent of Nano‐Fe Loaded Biomass Char and Its Enhanced Adsorption Capacity for Phosphate in Water
Authors: Zhou Hongguang , Jiang Zhenmao , Wei Shiqiang
Published: November 2013

A novel composite adsorbent of Fe loaded biomass char (Fe‐BC) was fabricated to treat phosphorus in water. Fe‐BC was prepared by a procedure including metal complex anion incorporation and precipitation with the pyrolysis char of corn straw as supporting material. The abundant porous structures of the as‐prepared sample can be easily observed from its scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Observations by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses show that inorganic nanoiron oxides deposited in the composite could be amorphous hydrous iron oxide α‐FeOOH. Adsorption of phosphate onto the Fe‐BC composite and its precursor (BC) from aqueous solutions were investigated and discussed. The equilibrium adsorption data of phosphate was described by Langmuir and Freundlich models, and Langmuir isotherm was found to be better fitted than Freundlich isotherm. The maximum phosphate adsorption capacity for phosphate of Fe‐BC was as high as 35.43 mg/g, approximately 2.3 times of BC at 25°C. The adsorption kinetics data were better fitted by pseudo‐second‐order model and intraparticle diffusion model, indicating that the adsorption process was complex. The Fe‐BC composite has been proved as an effective adsorbent of phosphate from aqueous solutions owing to its unique porous structures and the greater Lewis basicity of the α‐FeOOH.
Complexity of Products of Some Complete and Complete Bipartite Graphs
Authors: Daoud S. N.
Published: November 2013

The number of spanning trees in graphs (networks) is an important invariant; it is also an important measure of reliability of a network. In this paper, we derive simple formulas of the complexity, number of spanning trees, of products of some complete and complete bipartite graphs such as cartesian product, normal product, composition product, tensor product, and symmetric product, using linear algebra and matrix analysis techniques.
HLA-Modeler: Automated Homology Modeling of Human Leukocyte Antigens
Authors: Amari Shinji , Kataoka Ryoichi , Ikegami Takashi , Hirayama Noriaki
Published: November 2013

The three-dimensional (3D) structures of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules are indispensable for the studies on the functions at molecular level. We have developed a homology modeling system named HLA-modeler specialized in the HLA molecules. Segment matching algorithm is employed for modeling and the optimization of the model is carried out by use of the PFROSST force field considering the implicit solvent model. In order to efficiently construct the homology models, HLA-modeler uses a local database of the 3D structures of HLA molecules. The structure of the antigenic peptide-binding site is important for the function and the 3D structure is highly conserved between various alleles. HLA-modeler optimizes the use of this structural motif. The leave-one-out cross-validation using the crystal structures of class I and class II HLA molecules has demonstrated that the rmsds of nonhydrogen atoms of the sites between homology models and crystal structures are less than 1.0 Å in most cases. The results have indicated that the 3D structures of the antigenic peptide-binding sites can be reproduced by HLA-modeler at the level almost corresponding to the crystal structures.
Robust Face Recognition via Block Sparse Bayesian Learning
Authors: Li Taiyong , Zhang Zhilin
Published: November 2013

Face recognition (FR) is an important task in pattern recognition and computer vision. Sparse representation (SR) has been demonstrated to be a powerful framework for FR. In general, an SR algorithm treats each face in a training dataset as a basis function and tries to find a sparse representation of a test face under these basis functions. The sparse representation coefficients then provide a recognition hint. Early SR algorithms are based on a basic sparse model. Recently, it has been found that algorithms based on a block sparse model can achieve better recognition rates. Based on this model, in this study, we use block sparse Bayesian learning (BSBL) to find a sparse representation of a test face for recognition. BSBL is a recently proposed framework, which has many advantages over existing block-sparse-model-based algorithms. Experimental results on the Extended Yale B, the AR, and the CMU PIE face databases show that using BSBL can achieve better recognition rates and higher robustness than state-of-the-art algorithms in most cases.
Update on Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) and New Implants
Authors: Brandão Lívia M. , Grieshaber Matthias C.
Published: November 2013

Traditional glaucoma surgery has been challenged by the advent of innovative techniques and new implants in the past few years. There is an increasing demand for safer glaucoma surgery offering patients a timely surgical solution in reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) and improving their quality of life. The new procedures and devices aim to lower IOP with a higher safety profile than fistulating surgery (trabeculectomy/drainage tubes) and are collectively termed “minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).” The main advantage of MIGS is that they are nonpenetrating and/or bleb-independent procedures, thus avoiding the major complications of fistulating surgery related to blebs and hypotony. In this review, the clinical results of the latest techniques and devices are presented by their approach, ab interno (trabeculotomy, excimer laser trabeculotomy, trabecular microbypass, suprachoroidal shunt, and intracanalicular scaffold) and ab externo (canaloplasty, Stegmann Canal Expander, suprachoroidal Gold microshunt). The drawback of MIGS is that some of these procedures produce a limited IOP reduction compared to trabeculectomy. Currently, MIGS is performed in glaucoma patients with early to moderate disease and preferably in combination with cataract surgery.
Subdifferential Properties of Minimal Time Functions Associated with Set-Valued Mappings with Closed Convex Graphs in Hausdorff Topological Vector Spaces
Authors: Bounkhel Messaoud
Published: November 2013

For a set-valued mappingMdefined between two Hausdorff topological vector spacesEandFand with closed convex graph and for a given point(x,y)∈E×F, we study the minimal time function associated with the images ofMand a bounded setΩ⊂Fdefined by𝒯M,Ω(x,y):=inf{t≥0:M(x)∩(y+tΩ)≠∅}. We prove and extend various properties on directional derivatives and subdifferentials of𝒯M,Ωat those points of(x,y)∈E×F(both cases: points in the graphgph Mand points outside the graph). These results are used to prove, in terms of the minimal time function, various new characterizations of the convex tangent cone and the convex normal cone to the graph ofMat points insidegph Mand to the graph of the enlargement set-valued mapping at points outsidegph M. Our results extend many existing results, from Banach spaces and normed vector spaces to Hausdorff topological vector spaces (Bounkhel, 2012; Bounkhel and Thibault, 2002; Burke et al., 1992; He and Ng, 2006; and Jiang and He 2009). An application of the minimal time function𝒯M,Ωto the calmness property of perturbed optimization problems in Hausdorff topological vector spaces is given in the last section of the paper.
Implicit Active Contours Driven by Local and Global Image Fitting Energy for Image Segmentation and Target Localization
Authors: Yu Xiaosheng , Qi Yuanchen , Lu Ziwei , Hu Nan
Published: November 2013

We propose a novel active contour model in a variational level set formulation for image segmentation and target localization. We combine a local image fitting term and a global image fitting term to drive the contour evolution. Our model can efficiently segment the images with intensity inhomogeneity with the contour starting anywhere in the image. In its numerical implementation, an efficient numerical schema is used to ensure sufficient numerical accuracy. We validated its effectiveness in numerous synthetic images and real images, and the promising experimental results show its advantages in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and robustness.
A Nonlocal Finite Element Approach to Nanobeams
Authors: de Sciarra Francesco Marotti
Published: November 2013

This paper presents a consistent derivation of a new nonlocal finite element procedure in the framework of continuum mechanics and nonlocal thermodynamics for the analysis of bending of nanobeams under transverse loads. This approach is able to provide the overall performance and the influence of specific parameters in the behavior of nanobeams and it is also able to deal with nanomechanical systems by solving a reduced number of algebraic equations. An example shows that the proposed nonlocal finite element procedure, using a mesh composed by only four elements of equal size, provides the exact values in terms of transversal displacement and bending of the nanobeam.
A New Hybrid Extragradient Iterative Method for Approximating the Common Solutions of a System of Variational Inequalities, a Mixed Equilibrium Problem, and a Hierarchical Fixed Point Problem
Authors: Bnouhachem Abdellah , Hamdi Abdelouahed
Published: November 2013

We suggest and analyze an iterative scheme for finding the approximate element of the common set of solutions of a system of variational inequalities, a mixed equilibrium problem, and a hierarchical fixed point problem in a real Hilbert space. Strong convergence of the proposed method is proved under some conditions. The results presented in this paper extend and improve some well-known results in the literature.
Experimental Study on Communication Delay of Powertrain System of Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Wang Dafang , Yang Bowen , Zhu Cheng , Qi Ji , Ni Geliang
Published: November 2013

In order to contrast and analyze the real-time performance of the powertrain system of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, a mathematical model of the system delay is established under the circumstances that the transmission adopts the CAN (controller area network) protocol and the TTCAN (time-triggered CAN) protocol, respectively, and the interior of the controller adopts the foreground-background mode and the OSEK mode respectively. In addition, an experimental platform is developed to test communication delays of messages under 4 different implementation models. The 4 models are testing under the CAN protocol while the controller interior adopts the foreground-background mode; testing under the CAN protocol while the controller interior adopts the OSEK mode; testing under the TTCAN protocol while the controller interior adopts the foreground-background mode, and testing under the TTCAN protocol while the controller interior adopts the OSEK mode. The theoretical and testing results indicate that the communication delay of the OSEK mode is a little longer than the one of the foreground-background mode. Moreover, compared with the CAN protocol, the periodic message has a better real-time performance under the TTCAN protocol, while the nonperiodic message has a worse one.
Effects of Rotation at Different Channel Orientations on the Flow Field inside a Trailing Edge Internal Cooling Channel
Authors: Pascotto Matteo , Armellini Alessandro , Casarsa Luca , Mucignat Claudio , Giannattasio Pietro
Published: November 2013

The flow field inside a cooling channel for the trailing edge of gas turbine blades has been numerically investigated with the aim to highlight the effects of channel rotation and orientation. A commercial 3D RANS solver including a SST turbulence model has been used to compute the isothermal steady air flow inside both static and rotating passages. Simulations were performed at a Reynolds number equal to 20000, a rotation number (Ro) of 0, 0.23, and 0.46, and channel orientations ofγ=0∘, 22.5°, and 45°, extending previous results towards new engine-like working conditions. The numerical results have been carefully validated against experimental data obtained by the same authors for conditionsγ=0∘and Ro = 0, 0.23. Rotation effects are shown to alter significantly the flow field inside both inlet and trailing edge regions. These effects are attenuated by an increase of the channel orientation fromγ=0∘to 45°.
Effect of Kinesiology Taping on Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Randomized Single-Blind Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Smykla A. , Walewicz K. , Trybulski R. , Halski T. , Kucharzewski M. , Kucio C. , Mikusek W. , Klakla K. , Taradaj J.
Published: November 2013

The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of Kinesiology Taping (KT) for treating breast cancer-related lymphedema. Sixty-five women with unilateral stage II and III lymphedema were randomly grouped into the KT group (K-tapes,n=20), the Quasi KT group (quasi K-tapes,n=22), or the MCT group (multilayered compression therapy group,n=23). Skin care, 45 min pneumatic compression therapy, 1 h manual lymphatic drainage, and application of K-tape/Quasi K-tapes/multilayered short-stretch bandages were given every treatment session, 3 times per week for 1 month. Patient evaluation items included limb size and percentage edema. Comparing the changes in K-tapes with quasi K-tapes changes, there were no significant differences (P>0.05). The edema reduction of multilayered bandages was much better than in results observed in taping groups. The KT appeared to be ineffective at secondary lymphedema after breast cancer treatment. The single-blind, controlled pilot study results suggest that K-tape could not replace the bandage, and at this moment it must not be an alternative choice for the breast cancer-related lymphedema patient. The trial is registered withACTRN12613001173785.
Waist Circumference Cutoff Points to Predict Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Cardiovascular Risk in Turkish Adults
Authors: Sonmez Alper , Bayram Fahri , Barcin Cem , Ozsan Muge , Kaya Ahmet , Gedik Vedia
Published: November 2013

Objective. The waist circumference (WC) cutoff levels defined for the Caucasian people may not be representative for different ethnic groups. We determined sex specific WC cutoff points to predict obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular risk in Turkish adults.Design and Methods. The demographic characteristics of 1898 adult males and 2308 nonpregnant females from 24 provinces of 7 different regions of Turkey (mean age 47 ± 14 yrs) were evaluated.Results. The WC levels of 90 cm and 100 cm define overweight and obese males while the levels of 80 cm and 90 cm define overweight and obese females. With these cutoff values, 239 additional males (12.6%) are diagnosed as overweight and 148 additional males (7.8%) as obese. Instead, 120 females (5.1%) are free of being labeled as obese.Conclusions. This is the first nationwide study to show the action levels of WC for overweight and obese Turkish adults. The ideal cutoff levels of WC to predict metabolic syndrome are 90 cm and 80 cm for Turkish adult men and women, respectively. These values are easy to implement and suggested to be used by the physicians dealing with cardiometabolic disorders in Turkey.
Hysteresis Phenomenon in the Galloping of the D-Shape Iced Conductor
Authors: Liu Bin , Zhu KuanJun , Li XinMin , Zhan XuePing
Published: November 2013

It is well known that there is a hysteresis phenomenon in the amplitude variation in the iced conductor galloping with the wind velocity, which will have more obvious disadvantages to the overhead transmission lines. But hysteresis characteristics in the conductor galloping have not received much attention. In this paper, a continuum model of the conductor galloping with D-shape ice is derived by using Hamilton principle, where the initial deformation, the geometric nonlinearity caused by the large deformation, and the aerodynamic nonlinearity are considered. The aerodynamic forces are described by using the quasi steady hypothesis, where the aerodynamic coefficients are expanded by the polynomial curves with a third order and a ninth order, respectively. The hysteresis phenomenon is analyzed by using the approximate solutions of the Galerkin discretized equation derived from the continuum model by means of the harmonic balance method. The influence of the different factors, dynamic angle of attack, span length, initial tension, and conductor mass, is obtained in different galloping instability intervals. And two important aspects about the point of the hysteresis phenomenon onset and the size of the hysteresis region over the wind velocities are analyzed under different conditions.
Indole-3-Acetic Acid, Polyamines, and Phenols in Hardwood Cuttings of Recalcitrant-to-Root Wild Grapes Native to East Asia:Vitis davidiiandVitis kiusiana
Authors: Shiozaki Shuji , Makibuchi Masahiro , Ogata Tsuneo
Published: November 2013

Levels of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), free, conjugated, and bound polyamines (PAs), and phenols were estimated in the basal portion of hardwood cuttings ofVitis davidiiandV. kiusianain relation to rooting and compared withVitis labruscanaBailey cv. Campbell Early. A high rate of root formation was observed in ‘Campbell Early’ cuttings 60 days after planting. However, none of theV. davidiiandV. kiusianacuttings formed roots. An increase in IAA contents was observed in ‘Campbell Early’ cuttings, but not inV. davidiiandV. kiusiana, 60 days after planting. The content of free, conjugated, and bound PAs was either constant or decreased in ‘Campbell Early’ cuttings during planting and was especially decreased in conjugated putrescine and spermidine. An increase in free and conjugated putrescine was observed after planting inV. kiusianacuttings. In the cuttings ofV. davidii, only bound spermine increased after planting. The content of total phenols, orthodiphenols, total catechins, and gallocatechin derivatives decreased after planting in ‘Campbell Early’ cuttings. Orthodiphenols and total catechin contents increased in the cuttings ofV. kiusiana, and gallocatechin derivatives increased inV. davidii.The relationships between these endogenous factors and the recalcitrant-to-root features ofV. davidiiandV. kiusianacuttings are discussed.
Making Sense in Antisense: Therapeutic Potential of Noncoding RNAs in Diabetes-Induced Vascular Dysfunction
Authors: Eken Suzanne M. , Jin Hong , Chernogubova Ekaterina , Maegdefessel Lars
Published: November 2013

The rapid rise of type II diabetes mellitus and its accompanying vascular complications call for novel approaches in unravelling its pathophysiological mechanisms and designing new treatment modalities. Noncoding RNAs represent a class of previously unknown molecular modulators of this disease. The most important features of diabetes-induced vascular disease, which include metabolic deregulation, increased oxidative stress, release of inflammatory mediators like adipokines, and pathologic changes in vascular cells, all are depicted and governed by a certain set of noncoding RNAs. While these mechanisms are being unravelled, new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities to treat diabetes-induced vascular disease emerge.
A Robust Optimization Approach to Emergency Vehicle Scheduling
Authors: Rong Xiao-Xia , Lu Yi , Yin Rui-Rui , Zhang Jiang-Hua
Published: November 2013

The emergency vehicle scheduling problem is studied under the objective function to minimize the total transportation time with uncertain road travel time. Firstly, we build a stochastic programming model considering the constrained chance. Then, we analyze the model based on robust optimization method and get its equivalent set of uncertainty constraint, which has good mathematical properties with consideration of the robustness of solutions. Finally, we implement a numerical example to compare the results of robust optimization method and that of the particle swarm optimization algorithm. The case study shows that the proposed method achieves better performance on computational complexity and stability.
Adaptive Finite-Time Control for a Flexible Hypersonic Vehicle with Actuator Fault
Authors: Wang Jie , Zong Qun , He Xiao , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: November 2013

The problem of robust fault-tolerant tracking control is investigated. Simulation on the longitudinal model of a flexible air-breathing hypersonic vehicle (FAHV) with actuator faults and uncertainties is conducted. In order to guarantee that the velocity and altitude track their desired commands in finite time with the partial loss of actuator effectiveness, an adaptive fault-tolerant control strategy is presented based on practical finite-time sliding mode method. The adaptive update laws are used to estimate the upper bound of uncertainties and the minimum value of actuator efficiency factor. Finally, simulation results show that the proposed control strategy is effective in rejecting uncertainties even in the presence of actuator faults.
Effects of Deep Cryogenic Treatment on Wear Mechanisms and Microthermal Expansion for the Material of Drive Elements
Authors: Chang Yuh-Ping , Wang Gino , Horng Jeng-Haur , Chu Li-Ming , Hwang Yih-Chyun
Published: November 2013

By the composite heat treatments, the strength and the surface hardness of the materials of drive elements can be improved. Moreover, the high accurate and capable machines can be obtained. For the numerous composite heat treatments, the deep cryogenic treatment has been used widely for the purpose of low thermal expansion in the industry. Therefore, this paper is further to investigate the low friction, wear resistance, and low thermal expansion for the carburizing steels of drive elements with deep cryogenic treatment. According to the experimental results, martensitic transformation occurred after the deep cryogenic treatment. The effects of deep cryogenic treatment on wear mechanisms are significant. The shape of wear particles changes from slip tongue to smooth stratification. Moreover, the surface magnetization is smaller for the case of Carburizing-Deep cryogenic treatment. Hence, the wear mechanism becomes simple. Besides, the thermal expansion is significantly smaller for the case of Carburizing-Deep cryogenic treatment.
LQR-Based Power Train Control Method Design for Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle
Authors: Haitao Yun , Yulan Zhao , Zunnian Liu , Kui Hao
Published: November 2013

Based on the mathematical model of fuel cell hybrid vehicle (FCHV) proposed in our previous study, a multistate feedback control strategy of the hybrid power train is designed based on the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) algorithm. A Kalman Filter (KF) observer is introduced to estimate state of charge (SOC) of the battery firstly, and then a linear quadratic regulator is constructed to compute the state feedback gain matrix of the closed-loop control system. At last, simulation and actual test are utilized to demonstrate this new approach.
Scheduling with Learning Effects and/or Time-Dependent Processing Times to Minimize the Weighted Number of Tardy Jobs on a Single Machine
Authors: Qian Jianbo , Steiner George
Published: November 2013

We consider single machine scheduling problems with learning/deterioration effects and time-dependent processing times, with due date assignment consideration, and our objective is to minimize the weighted number of tardy jobs. By reducing all versions of the problem to an assignment problem, we solve them inO(n4) time. For some important special cases, the time complexity can be improved to beO(n2) using dynamic programming techniques.
Characterization of Air-Based Photovoltaic Thermal Panels with Bifacial Solar Cells
Authors: Ooshaksaraei P. , Sopian K. , Zulkifli R. , Zaidi Saleem H.
Published: November 2013

Photovoltaic (PV) panels account for a majority of the cost of photovoltaic thermal (PVT) panels. Bifacial silicon solar panels are attractive for PVT panels because of their potential to enhance electrical power generation from the same silicon wafer compared with conventional monofacial solar panels. This paper examines the performance of air-based bifacial PVT panels with regard to the first and second laws of thermodynamics. Four air-based bifacial PVT panels were designed. The maximum efficiencies of 45% to 63% were observed for the double-path-parallel bifacial PVT panel based on the first law of thermodynamics. Single-path bifacial PVT panel represents the highest exergy efficiency (10%). Double-path-parallel bifacial PVT panel is the second preferred design as it generates up to 20% additional total energy compared with the single-path panel. However, the daily average exergy efficiency of a double-path-parallel panel is 0.35% lower than that of a single-path panel.
Preparation of a Sustained Release Drug Delivery System for Dexamethasone by a Thermosensitive, In Situ Forming Hydrogel for
Use in Differentiation of Dental Pulp
Authors: Khodaverdi Elham , Kheirandish Fatemeh , Mirzazadeh Tekie Farnaz Sadat , Khashyarmanesh Bibi Zahra , Hadizadeh Farzin , Moallemzadeh Haghighi Hamideh
Published: November 2013

In situ forming delivery systems composed of block copolymers are attracting substantial attention due to their ease of use, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. In this study, the thermoresponsive triblock copolymer PLGA-PEG-PLGA was studied as a dexamethasone delivery system. Dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid, is used clinically to improve inflammation, pain, and the hyperemesis of chemotherapy, and it is applied experimentally as a differentiation factor in tissue engineering.
PLGA-PEG-PLGA was synthesised under microwave irradiation for 5 min. The obtained copolymer was characterised to determine its structure and phase transition temperature. An in vitro release study was conducted for various copolymer structures and drug concentrations. The yield of the reaction and HNMR analysis confirmed the appropriateness of the microwave-assisted method for PLGA-PEG-PLGA synthesis. Phase transition temperature was affected by the drug molecule as well as by the copolymer concentration and structure. An in vitro release study demonstrated that release occurs mainly by diffusion and does not depend on the copolymer structure or dexamethasone concentration.
eRapa Restores a Normal Life Span in a FAP Mouse Model
Authors: Hasty Paul , Livi Carolina B. , Dodds Sherry G. , Jones Diane , Strong Randy , Javors Martin , Fischer Kathleen E. , Sloane Lauren , Murthy Kruthi , Hubbard Gene , Sun Lishi , Hurez Vincent , Curiel Tyler J. , Sharp Zelton Dave
Published: November 2013

Mutation of a single copy of the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene results in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), which confers an extremely high risk for colon cancer. ApcMin/+ mice exhibit multiple intestinal neoplasia (MIN) that causes anemia and death from bleeding by 6 months. Mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) inhibitors were shown to improve ApcMin/+ mouse survival when administered by oral gavage or added directly to the chow, but these mice still died from neoplasia well short of a natural life span. The National Institute of Aging Intervention Testing Program showed that enterically targeted rapamycin (eRapa) extended life span for wild-type genetically heterogeneous mice in part by inhibiting age-associated cancer. We hypothesized that eRapa would be effective in preventing neoplasia and extend survival of ApcMin/+ mice. We show that eRapa improved survival of ApcMin/+ mice in a dose-dependent manner. Remarkably, and in contrast to previous reports, most of the ApcMin/+ mice fed 42 parts per million eRapa lived beyond the median life span reported for wild-type syngeneic mice. Furthermore, chronic eRapa did not cause detrimental immune effects in mouse models of cancer, infection, or autoimmunity, thus assuaging concerns that chronic rapamycin treatment suppresses immunity. Our studies suggest that a novel formulation (enteric targeting) of a well-known and widely used drug (rapamycin) can dramatically improve its efficacy in targeted settings. eRapa or other mTORC1 inhibitors could serve as effective cancer preventatives for people with FAP without suppressing the immune system, thus reducing the dependency on surgery as standard therapy. Cancer Prev Res; 7(1); 169–78. ©2013 AACR.
Genetic Polymorphisms in Calcitonin Receptor Gene and Risk for Recurrent Kidney Calcium Stone Disease
Authors: Shakhssalim Nasser , Basiri Abbas , Houshmand Massoud , Pakmanesh Hamid , Golestan Banafsheh , Azadvari Mohaddeseh , Aryan Hajar , Kashi Amir H.
Published: November 2013

Introduction: In this study the full sequence of the calcitonin receptor gene (CALCR) in a group of Iranian males suffering from recurrent calcium urinary stones was compared with that of a control group. Methods: Serum and urinary biochemistry related to urolithiasis were evaluated in 105 males diagnosed with recurrent kidney calcium stones and 101 age-matched healthy control males. The polymerase chain reaction single-strand conformation polymorphism method was used to detect new polymorphisms in the CALCR. Results: Nine polymorphisms were detected; seven were in the non-coding and two in the coding region. The T allele associated with the 3′UTR+18C>T polymorphism was observed exclusively in the stone formers. The exact odds ratio for the T allele in this locus for those at risk of stone formation was 36.72 (95% CI 4.95-272.0) (p < 0.001). The mean (standard deviation) urine calcium concentration was 117 (60) mg/l in patients with the C allele and 152 (72) mg/l in those with the T allele (p = 0.03). In addition, IVS1-6T>C and IVS1insA polymorphisms in intron 1 were associated with kidney stone disease (p < 0.001). Regarding single nucleotide polymorphism 447, mean (standard deviation) of serum calcitonin levels were 16.7 (18.7) pg/ml, 10.5 (11.0) pg/ml and 9.94 (9.7) pg/ml in subjects with TT, TC and CC genotypes, respectively (p = 0.01). Conclusion: Our data indicate a potential association between 3′UTR+18C>T and intron 1 polymorphisms in the CALCR and the risk of kidney stone disease.
Immunopathological Significance of Ovarian Teratoma in Patients with Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis
Authors: Tabata Emi , Masuda Masanori , Eriguchi Makoto , Yokoyama Masatoshi , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Tanaka Keiko , Yukitake Motohiro , Horikawa Etsuo , Hara Hideo
Published: November 2013

Background: The clinical importance of ovarian teratoma in anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis has been established, however investigations of ovarian teratoma in patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis remain limited. Objective: To clarify differences in NMDAR distribution and lymphocyte infiltration in ovarian teratoma between patients with and without anti-NMDAR encephalitis. Methods: Participants initially comprised 26 patients with ovarian teratomas. NMDAR distribution and lymphocyte infiltration in ovarian teratomas were examined using immunopathological techniques. Clinical, laboratory, and radiological data were compared between patients showing the features of encephalitis. Anti-NMDAR antibodies in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid were also measured in encephalitis patients. Results: Neuronal tissues were obtained from ovarian teratomas in 22 patients (after excluding 4 patients who did not satisfy the inclusion criteria), and the presence of NMDA receptor subunits was revealed in all patients. Lymphocyte infiltration was more frequent in the encephalitis group (n = 3) than in the non-encephalitis group. In particular, dense B-lymphocyte infiltration near neural tissues was observed in the encephalitis group. Conclusions: Differences in lymphocyte infiltration in ovarian teratomas between anti-NMDAR encephalitis and non-encephalitis patients suggest the immunological importance of the ovarian teratoma as the site of antigen presentation in anti-NMDAR encephalitis.
Assessing Auditory Processing Disorders in Children with Developmental Dyslexia Using Auditory Cognitive Event-Related Potentials
Authors: Maciejewska Barbara , Wiskirska-Woźnica Bożena , Świdziński Piotr , Michalak Michał
Published: November 2013

Objectives: It has been suggested that dyslexia is linked to a core cognitive deficit in phonological awareness tasks and/or in the processing of auditory stimuli. Auditory evoked potentials are a valid, objective measure of the accuracy of central auditory processing in humans. The aim of this study was to assess auditory evoked potentials in children with dyslexia. Patients and Methods: Sixty-six children participated in the study. A set of hearing tests and the recording of complex event-related potentials (ERPs) were performed. Results: Mixmatch negativity (MMN) and P300 waves were significantly more frequent in the healthy children (control group) than in children with dyslexia. The P300 wave was present in all subjects from the control group, the MMN wave in 92% of them. In the dyslexic group, complex ERPs were recorded roughly 33% of the time. Latencies of complex ERPs in children with dyslexia were greater than latencies in children in the control group. MMN and P300 maturation (change with age) was observed only for the control group. A wide range of MMN and P300 responses was observed across children with dyslexia. Conclusion: Complex ERPs may be useful in determining the condition of audiologic functions; however, on their own they are not sufficient to recognize dyslexia because of the heterogeneity of nonspecific changes.
The Combination of Fludarabine, Cytarabine and Etoposide Is an Active and Well-Tolerated Regimen in Relapsed/Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Aldoss Ibrahim , Ji Lingyun , Haider Mintallah , Pullarkat Vinod
Published: November 2013

We retrospectively reviewed the outcome of 20 consecutive subjects with refractory/relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML; 9 refractory and 11 relapsed) treated at our institution with a fludarabine, cytarabine and etoposide (FCE) salvage regimen. Of 20 patients with refractory/relapsed AML, 15 (75%) achieved complete remission (CR)/CR with incomplete peripheral blood count recovery (CRi), including 14 CR and 1 CRi. The 4- and 8-week treatment-related mortality (TRM) for all patients during reinduction was 0 and 5%, respectively. Eight of 15 patients (53%) who successfully achieved CR were able to undergo allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with a 0% non-relapse mortality rate. FCE is a new, well-tolerated, anthracycline-free regimen, which has a promising activity in relapsed/refractory AML and is associated with low TRM in this high-risk population.
Large Unstained Cells: A Potentially Valuable Parameter in the Assessment of Immune Activation Levels in HIV Infection
Authors: Vanker Naadira , Ipp Hayley
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Chronic immune activation is associated with the accelerated progression of HIV to AIDS; however, affordable markers reflecting this have not yet been determined. The percentage of large unstained cells (%LUCs) is a differential count parameter measured by certain routine hematology analyzers and reflects activated lymphocytes and peroxidase-negative cells. We hypothesized that the %LUCs would be increased in HIV infection and would correlate with markers of immune activation [i.e. CD38 expression on CD8+ T cells (%CD38onCD8) and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP)] and CD4 counts. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 78 HIV-infected, antiretroviral therapy-naïve adults and 52 uninfected controls were recruited. %CD38onCD8 and CD4 counts were determined by flow cytometry, LBP levels were assessed by immunoassay, and the %LUCs was tested on a Siemens ADVIA 2120. Results: Significant differences were found between the HIV-infected and control groups for %LUCs (95% CI 2.3-2.7 vs. 1.8-2.2, respectively; p = 0.001), as well as for %CD38onCD8, LBP, and CD4 counts. Furthermore, %LUCs correlated directly with %CD38onCD8 and LBP and inversely with CD4 counts. Conclusion: The %LUCs was significantly increased in this untreated, asymptomatic, HIV-infected group and correlated with markers of immune activation and CD4 counts. Therefore, the %LUCs may be of value in identifying HIV-infected patients at risk of accelerated disease progression.
Pancreatic Duct Stents at Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Quan , He Xi-Ran , Tian Jin-Hui , Yang Ke-Hu
Published: November 2013

Background and Objective: Several studies suggested that pancreatic stents had some benefit during pancreatoduodenectomy (PD), but others disagree. Whether pancreatic duct stents could prevent postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is still under controversy. Methods: Randomized controlled trials published before November 2012 were all aggregated, focusing on the evaluation of pancreatic duct stents during PD. Trial data was reviewed and extracted independently by two reviewers. The quality of the including studies was assessed by the Cochrane handbook 5.1.0. Results: Seven studies were included, with a total of 793 patients. The results showed that compared with nonstents, stents during PD was associated with a significant difference on overall POPF rate (OR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.45-0.95, p = 0.02), POPF grades B and C (OR = 0.45, 95% CI 0.27-0.76, p = 0.003), and hospital stay (MD = -4.28, 95% CI -6.81, -1.75, p = 0.0009). Subgroup analyses showed that the external stent had a significant difference in the incidence of overall POPF (OR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.29-0.73, p = 0.0009), POPF grades B and C (OR = 0.49, 95% CI 0.30-0.79, p = 0.003), postoperative morbidity (OR = 0.63, 95% CI 0.42-0.96, p = 0.03), as well as hospital stay. Conclusions: Based upon this meta-analysis, there might be potential benefit in reducing POPF thanks to the use of pancreatic duct stents.
Metformin-Induced Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Kirkiz Serap , Yarali Nese , Arman Bilir Ozlem , Tunc Bahattin
Published: November 2013

Objective: To report a rare side effect of metformin, an oral antidiabetic drug that is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 17-year-old boy was hospitalized for receiving acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment that was composed of vincristine, L-asparaginase, daunorubicin, and prednisone. Hyperglycemia was determined without any clinical sign and metformin was started for steroid-induced insulin resistance. On the second day of metformin treatment, the patient's hemoglobin level decreased, and a direct Coombs test was positive for immunoglobulin G but negative for complement. An indirect Coombs test was negative. The glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase level was within the normal range. Drug-induced hemolytic anemia was suspected and metformin was discontinued. The jaundice gradually disappeared and there was no requirement for red blood cell transfusions. Conclusion: This case showed that physicians should be aware of the potential side effect of metformin although it is infrequent.
Attitudes of Health Care Professionals towards Female Obese Patients
Authors: Sikorski Claudia , Luppa Melanie , Glaesmer Heide , Brähler Elmar , König Hans-Helmut , Riedel-Heller Steffi G.
Published: November 2013

Objective: The health care setting has been reported to be one main source of weight stigma repeatedly; however, studies comparing different professions have been lacking. Methods: 682 health care professionals (HCP) of a large German university hospital were asked to fill out a questionnaire on stigmatizing attitudes, perceived causes of obesity, and work-related impact of obesity. Stigmatizing attitudes were assessed on the Fat Phobia Scale (FPS) based on a vignette describing a female obese patient. Results: Only 25% graded current health care of obese patients to be ‘good' or ‘very good'. 63% of all HCPs ‘somewhat' or ‘strongly' agreed that it was often difficult to get the resources needed in order to care for obese patients. The mean FPS score was comparable to that in the general public (M = 3.59), while nursing staff showed slightly more positive attitudes compared to physicians and therapists. Higher age, higher BMI, and ascribing personal responsibility for obesity to the individual were associated with a higher level of stigmatizing attitudes. The nursing staff agreed on obesity as an illness to a greater extent while physicians attributed obesity to the individual. Conclusions: In summary, by making complex models on the causes of obesity known among health care professionals, stigmatizing attitudes might be reduced. Ongoing further education for health care professionals ought to be part of anti-stigma campaigns in the medical field.
Wirksamkeit von Handheld-gestütztem Selbstmanagement (E-Coaching) in der Rehabilitationsnachsorge
Authors: Bischoff Claus , Schmädeke Stefan , Adam Melanie , Dreher Corinna , Bencetic Daniel , Limbacher Klaus
Published: November 2013

Hintergrund: Ziel der Studie ist es, die Wirksamkeit einer Handheld-gestützten Form der ambulanten Nachsorge (E-Coaching) nach stationärer psychosomatischer Rehabilitation bei Patienten zu überprüfen, die eine übermäßige berufliche Verausgabungsbereitschaft aufweisen. Die Patienten wurden mehrmals am Tag programmgesteuert aufgefordert, die Aufmerksamkeit auf ihr derzeitiges Verhalten und Erleben zu richten, es daraufhin zu überprüfen, ob es die Entstehung körperlicher oder seelischer Symptome begünstigt, es gegebenenfalls im Sinne der in der Behandlung erarbeiteten Strategien zu korrigieren und nach einer Zeit zu kontrollieren, ob diese Korrekturen erfolgreich waren. Methoden: Die Patienten, die die Ein- und Ausschlusskriterien erfüllten, nahmen am Ende des stationären Aufenthalts an einer Kurzbehandlung teil, in der sie E-Coaching kennenlernten und erproben konnten. Zwei Drittel erlebten E-Coaching als hilfreich. Diese Patienten wurden nach einem «randomized consent design» auf die Experimentgruppe (E-Coaching) und die Kontrollgruppe (Vorsatz-Therapie ohne Handheld) verteilt. Die Interventionen fanden in den 6 Monaten nach Entlassung jeweils 2 Mal 7 Tage lang statt. Als primäre Zielgröße wurde berufsbezogene Verausgabungsbereitschaft und als sekundäre Zielgrößen Selbstmanagementfähigkeiten und Beschwerdedruck jeweils am Anfang und am Ende der poststationären Phase sowie ein Jahr nach Entlassung mit standardisierten Verfahren erhoben. Ergebnisse: Die Patienten beider Versuchsgruppen (EG: n = 74, KG: n = 48) konnten den während der stationären Rehabilitationsmaßnahme erreichten Behandlungserfolg hinsichtlich des Beschwerdedrucks aufrechterhalten. Hinsichtlich der im stationären Bereich erzielten positiven Effekte bei der Verausgabungsbereitschaft erreichten sie sogar eine weitere Reduktion. Allerdings war hinsichtlich keiner der Zielgrößen E-Coaching der Vorsatz-Therapie überlegen. Diskussion: Es werden Ursachen der Ergebnisse und Verbesserungsvorschläge für E-Coaching-Prozeduren erörtert.