bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound Findings After Surgical Decompression of the Tarsal Tunnel in Patients With Painful Diabetic Polyneuropathy: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Macaré van Maurik Joanne F.M. , Schouten Marita E.L. , ten Katen Iris , van Hal Mireille , Peters Edgar J.G. , Kon Moshe
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE

It has been hypothesized that the development of diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) is due to swelling of the nerve, as well as thickening and stiffening of the surrounding ligaments, causing chronic compression of nerves. We aimed to examine the effect of surgical decompression of the tibial nerve on the mean cross-sectional area (CSA).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a randomized controlled trial of 42 subjects with painful DPN diagnosed using the Diabetic Neuropathy Score. A computer randomized for the surgery arm of the study. A control group consisting of 38 healthy subjects was included. An experienced sonographer measured the CSA and thickness-to-width (T/W) ratio of the tibial nerve, as well as the thickness of the flexor retinaculum.

RESULTS

CSA is significantly larger in patients with painful DPN (8.4 ± 3.9 mm2) than in control subjects (6.4 ± 1.3 mm2), P = 0.007. The T/W ratio in patients with painful DPN is 0.64 and in control subjects 0.59, P = 0.03. Patients with DPN have a significantly thicker retinaculum (1.07 mm) than control subjects (0.84 mm), P < 0.001. Mean follow-up was 28.2 weeks (range 23–45). Difference between baseline and follow-up in the operated leg was 1.49 mm2 and in the control leg 1.81 mm2, P = 0.674.

CONCLUSIONS

Decompression of the tibial nerve does not result in a significant difference between baseline and follow-up in CSA using ultrasound between the operated and control leg. Ultrasound measurements show a significantly increased CSA, a significantly thicker retinaculum, and a significantly increased T/W ratio in patients with painful DPN compared with healthy control subjects.
Endocrine, Lifestyle, and Genetic Factors in the Development of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Slanovic-Kuzmanović Zorana , Kos Ivan , Domijan Ana-Marija
Published: January 2014

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a chronic, multi-component disease characterised by central obesity, hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, and hypertension. Since MetS leads to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, development of certain cancers, and eventually to premature death, it is not surprising that it draws the attention of scientists around the world. The aetiopathology of MetS is complex and still not fully understood. This review focuses on the role of endocrine factors such as cortisol and insulin in the development of MetS. It also takes a look at some of the contributing lifestyle and genetic factors as well as at the current knowledge about its treatment.
Correlates of Depression in the Slovenian Working Population
Authors: Klemenc-Ketiš Zalika , Peterlin Borut
Published: January 2014

This multicentre, cross-sectional observational study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression among the working population of Slovenia and identify factors correlating with higher prevalence of depression. It was conducted in three occupational medicine practices within major Slovenian primary health care centres. The study population consisted of 1,474 respondents [73.7 % of the invited participants, 889 (60.3 %) men and 585 (39.7 %) women with mean age of (40.5±9.8) years] who visited these practices for their regular check-ups from November 2010 to June 2012 and were asked to fill in a self-developed questionnaire and score depression on the Zung’s self-rating depression scale. According to the rating, 50 (3.4 %) respondents suffered from depression. In the multivariate analysis, depression correlated with the following independent variables: self-perceived exposure to chronic stress, positive family history of depression, and primary school education.
Evaluation of potential improvements to coking process energy efficiency as a consequence of implementing a coal blend pre-drying operation
Authors: Żarczyński Piotr , Strugała Andrzej , Sobolewski Aleksander , Kaczmarek Wojciech
Published: January 2014

Streszczenie

Polityka zrównoważonego rozwoju, wzrost świadomości społeczeństw oraz wynikające stąd ambitne cele w zakresie polityki energetycznej w Unii Europejskiej z jednej strony zmuszają, a z drugiej inspirują przed- siębiorstwa do poprawiania sprawności energetycznej stosowanych technologii. Przemysł koksowniczy w Polsce i całej Europie także poszukuje dróg optymalnego rozwoju technologicznego, pozwalającego na poprawę efek- tywności energetycznej, a przez to także zwiększenia rentowności przedsiębiorstwa. Koksownictwo krajowe poszukuje również technologii pozwalających w jeszcze większym stopniu na korzystanie z krajowych zasobów węgli, a przez to z renty geograficznej (Ozga-Blaschke 2012; Kasztelewicz 2012). Jednym z bardziej atrakcyjnych kierunków rozwoju dla polskich koksowni, spełniającym łącznie wszystkie te postulaty, jest wdrożenie operacji podsuszania wsadu. Skojarzenie tej technologii z instalacją suchego chłodzenia koksu sprawia, że obie te technologie stosowane łącznie znacznie podnoszą sprawność energetyczną procesu koksowania, a jednostkowe zużycie gazu koksowniczego może spaść o 12,6%. W artykule przeprowadzono analizę wyników w zakresie poprawy efektywności energetycznej procesu koksowania po wdrożeniu operacji podsuszania wsadu niezależnie oraz w skojarzeniu z instalacją suchego chłodzenia koksu. W pierwszym rozważanym przypadku możliwe jest ograniczenie zużycia ciepła koksowania o 2,8%. Natomiast skojarzenie tych dwóch technologii, poza innymi pozytywnymi efektami, znacząco zwiększa skalę oszczędności do 12,6%. Całkowite ciepło potrzebne dla skok- sowania wsadu wynoszące 2600 MJ/t wsadu wilgotnego, zmniejsza się do 2527,5 MJ/t wsadu wilgotnego w przypadku wdrożenia operacji podsuszania samoistnie, a w przypadku skojarzenia tej instalacji z technologią suchego chłodzenia koksu do 2273,6 MJ/t wsadu wilgotnego. Skojarzenie obu tych technologii zdaje się być szczególnie atrakcyjne w aspekcie energetycznym ponieważ pozwala wykorzystać entalpię fizyczną gorącego koksu z bardzo wysoką sprawnością. W końcowej części przedstawiono porównanie podstawowych parametrów energetycznych procesu koksowania dla różnych układów technologicznych, obejmujących podsuszanie wsadu i/lub suche chłodzenie koksu.
The prospective and hypothetical areas of zinc and/or lead ores in different types of deposits beyond the Upper Silesia Zn-Pb Ore District in Poland
Authors: Mikulski Stanisław Z. , Strzelska-Smakowska Bożena
Published: January 2014

Streszczenie

Największe szanse na udokumentowanie zasobów perspektywicznych złóż rud Zn-Pb w Polsce występują w obszarze o powierzchni około 2000 km2 usytuowanym na północ od udokumentowanych złóż siarczkowych Zn-Pb regionu zawierciańskiego. Wydzielone zostały tam cztery rejony perspektywiczne dla wystąpień złóż rud siarczkowych Zn-Pb typu Mississippi Valery Type (MVT) w utworach węglanowych triasu (wapień muszlowy) i dewonu. Za najbardziej obiecujący uznano obszar na NW od Myszkowa oraz obszar na SE od Koziegłowów. Jednak ze względu na słabe rozpoznanie wiertnicze zasoby md Zn-Pb są trudne do oszacowania. Celowe jest przeprowadzenie dalszych prac geofizycznych (np. metodą 1P), które w przypadku pozytywnych wyników należałoby rozpoznać wierceniami. W cechsztyńskiej formacji miedzionośnej na monoklinie przedsudeckiej (wokół obszaru złożowego Lubin- -Sieroszowice), na peryklinie Żar (na SW od Zielonej Góry) i w niecce północnosudeckiej (wokół złóż Konrad i Lena-Nowy Kościół oraz na N od Zgorzelca) znanych jest kilka obszarów występowania bogatej mineralizacji Pb-Zn. Jednak ze względu na dużą głębokość zalegania mineralizacji, okruszcowanie to może stanowić jedynie kopalinę towarzyszącą wydobywaną przy okazji eksploatacji rud Cu-Ag. Jednak pomimo znacznych zasobów cynk jak dotychczas nie jest odzyskiwany w procesach przeróbczych jak i metalurgicznych przez KGHM Polska Miedź S.A. Liczne drobne wystąpienia mineralizacji Zn-Pb i Pb w Sudetach, G. Świętokrzyskich oraz w strefie kontaktu bloku małopolskiego z górnośląskim nie mają znaczenia ekonomicznego jednak stanowią ważne przesłanki dla dalszych poszukiwań, które mogą doprowadzić do odkrycia złóż siarczkowych Zn i/lub Pb, różnorodnych pod względem genetycznym (stratoidalne, hydrotermalne żyłowe i/lub brekcje, kontaktowo-metasomatyczne, SEDEX) jak i zasobowym.
Flotation Method in Talc Raw Material Processing from the Gemerská Poloma Deposit in Slovakia
Authors: Sidorová Marina , Ćorej Peter
Published: January 2014

Streszczenie

Artykuł przedstawia przydatność metody flotacyjnej w przeróbce kopaliny talkowej pochodzącej ze złoża Gemerska Polonia. Wnioski oparte są na analizie wyników badań kontrolowanych próbek materiału z prób produkcyjnych, które zostały przeprowadzone w dwóch instalacjach flotacyjnych. Ocena wyników tych prób przemysłowych, w tym analizy chemicznej i innych analiz jakościowych przeprowadzonych na próbkach kon- trolnych, potwierdzają stosunkowo wysoki poziom białości - w zakresie od 83,9-88,0% - w otrzymanych koncentratach talku. Wiadomo jednak, że surowiec talkowy osiągnie swój ostateczny poziom białości po jego zmieleniu do docelowej granulacji. Badania potwierdzają również wysoką skuteczność separacji pirytu i innych minerałów towarzyszących w trakcie flotacji. Na podstawie wyników analizy chemicznej koncentratów talku, uzasadnione jest stwierdzenie, że metoda flotacji może być uznana za odpowiednią metodę wzbogacania kopaliny talkowej pochodzącej ze złoża Gemerska Polonia. Złoże talku Gemerska Polonia zostało udokumentowane pod koniec lat dziewięćdziesiątych XX wieku. W 1988 roku podczas badań geologicznych w rejonie Gemerska Polonia na końcu doliny Dlha, w wyniku przeprowadzonych prac wiertniczych (3 otwory) stwierdzono mineralizację talkowo-magnezytową. Unikalne złoże talku może mieć duże znaczenie na rynku europejskim, będąc porównywalnym do największych światowych złóż tej kopaliny. Eksperci uważają złoże talku Gemerska Polonia pod względem wymiarów, jakości kopaliny i ilości zasobów, jako jedno z największych na świecie. Jego kluczową zaletą jest dobre strategiczne położenie w centrum Europy. Oceny ekonomiczne tego złoża dają perspektywę długoletniej zyskownej działalności pro- dukcyjnej, a działalność ta może także częściowo ożywić górniczo-geologiczny rynek pracy w tym regionie. Popyt na ten surowiec w Europie ma stałą tendencję wzrostową.
Possibility of Huntite presence in the Triassic limestones of Opole Silesia
Authors: Stanienda Katarzyna
Published: January 2014

Streszczenie

W niniejszym artykule przedstawiono wyniki badań próbek skał węglanowych pobranych z utworów triasowych, w obszarze Śląska Opolskiego. Przedmiotem badań była identyfikacja huntytu - fazy węglanowej, o podwyższonej, w porównaniu z kalcytem magnezowym i dolomitem, zawartości magnezu. Huntyt powstaje zwykle wskutek procesów hydrotermalnych, wietrzenia dolomitu lub w wyniku przeobrażenia, w warunkach wysokich temperatur, kalcytu magnezowego. W skałach osadowych występuje w utworach strefy wadycznej (aeracji). W celu stwierdzenia obecności huntytu, wybrane próbki skał poddano analizom FTIR, rentgenowskiej oraz badaniom w mikroobszarach. Minerał ten zidentyfikowano w skałach wapienia muszlowego, w wapieniach warstw gogolińskich, górażdżańskich, dziewkowickich i karchowickich. W przypadku analizy FTIR, o obecności huntytu świadczy występowanie w widmach absorpcyjnych, w próbkach 1 i 4 pasma 1555 cm-1, w próbce 3 - pasma 1562 cm-1, a w próbce 2 - pasma 1572 cm-1. W dyfra kto gra mach rentgenowskich wszystkich badanych próbek, fazę węglanową uznaną za huntyt zidentyfikowano na podstawie linii dy|frakcyjnej, o najwyższej intensywności i wartości dhkl - 2,83 A. Badania w mikroobszarach pozwoliły na zidentyfikowanie huntytu w wapieniach dziewkowickich oraz karchowickich. Oznaczone w punktach mikroobszarów badanych próbek, zawartości magnezu, wahają się od 14,01% Mg (23,23% MgO) do 16,18% Mg (26,83% MgO). Wartości te przekraczają znacznie wartość stechiometryczną, typową dla dolomitu (21,86% MgO, 13,12% Mg). Oznaczona w mikroobszarach ilość magnezu w huntycie jest jednak niższa od wartości stechiometrycznej dla tej fazy węglanowej, która wynosi 20,65% Mg (34,25% MgO). Prawdopodobnie, wskutek procesów diagenezy (de- dolomityzacja ?) mogło dojść do usunięcia części jonów magnezu z kryształów huntytu. Analizując możliwości tworzenia się huntytu, fazy węglanowej o podwyższonej zawartości magnezu, w więk- szym stopniu niż Mg-kalcyt czy dolomit, można podejrzewać, że minerał ten powstał w obszarach zbiornika germańskiego, w których procesy diagenezy zachodziły przy udziale wód strefy wadycznej.
ENGINEERING SUSTAINABLE COMPLEX SYSTEMS
Authors: Ahram Tareq Z.
Published: January 2014

Given the most competitive nature of global business environment, effective engineering innovation is a critical requirement for all levels of system lifecycle development. The society and community expectations have increased beyond environmental short term impacts to global long term sustainability approach. Sustainability and engineering competence skills are extremely important due to a general shortage of engineering talent and the need for mobility of highly trained professionals [1]. Engineering sustainable complex systems is extremely important in view of the general shortage of resources and talents. Engineers implement new technologies and processes to avoid the negative environmental, societal and economic impacts. Systems thinking help engineers and designers address sustainable development issues with a global focus using leadership and excellence. This paper introduces the Systems Engineering (SE) methodology for designing complex and more sustainable business and industrial solutions, with emphasis on engineering excellence and leadership as key drivers for business sustainability.

The considerable advancements achieved in complex systems engineering indicate that the adaptation of sustainable SE to business needs can lead to highly sophisticated yet widely useable collaborative applications, which will ensure the sustainability of limited resources such as energy and clean water. The SE design approach proves critical in maintaining skills needed in future capable workforce. Two factors emerged to have the greatest impact on the competitiveness and sustainability of complex systems and these were: improving skills and performance in engineering and design, and adopting SE and human systems integration (HSI) methodology to support sustainability in systems development. Additionally, this paper provides a case study for the application of SE and HSI methodology for engineering sustainable and complex systems.
RESOURCE EFFICIENCY WITHIN SEMI-CONTINUOUS PRODUCTION: AN APPROACH TO ASSESS PROCESS-INHERENT RESOURCE DISSIPATION
Authors: Meier Horst , Bakir Dennis , Krückhans Björn
Published: January 2014

Within classic German manufacturing structures, costs of resources exceed all other cost factors by 46% [1]. Solitary focus on energy or labor costs as sources to raise companies profit no longer seems adequate. Nowadays material costs of the manufacturing industry are about 500 billion euro per year, connected with a saving potential of 100 billion euro per year. Also the belonging for sustainably produced products is raising and becoming a factor for guaranteed purchases [2]. A small and medium-sized enterprise fitted approach, which ensures to increase the transparency of internal process structures and allows a resource driven, ecological and economical assessment, is the main subject of this article.
SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH PRODUCTION NETWORKS
Authors: Veza Ivica , Mladineo Marko
Published: January 2014

Global economic crisis has brought into question sustainability of many industrial enterprises, especially Large-sized Enterprises (LEs). However, the strength of the European economy are not Large-sized Enterprises, but Small and Medium-sized industrial Enterprises (SMEs). As an alternative to LEs there is networking of SMEs into flexible production networks. Inside production network SMEs can collaborate on new product development forming Virtual Enterprise. SMEs collaborating as one Virtual Enterprise can be seen as a sustainable Large-sized Enterprise. However, to achieve sustainability through production networks, i.e. Virtual Enterprises, it is essential to choose an optimal combination of SMEs in Virtual Enterprise formation process. Since it is a complex task that requires the use of multi-criteria decision-making methods, in this paper PROMETHEE method is used.
New data on the distribution of Bryum minii (Bryaceae, Bryophyta) in Portugal with ecological and chorological considerations
Authors: Sérgio Cecília , Garcia César Augusto , Stow Sarah
Published: January 2014

Bryum minii Podp. ex Machado-Guim. was first described from Portugal in the nineteenth century and only recorded in Spain in 2010. It is found on acidic rocks, such as granite, near watercourses and its glossy appearance makes it relatively easy to identify in the field although it grows in small patches. New chorological data are provided for Portugal, as well as species photographs and an updated distribution map which show that it is no longer a rare species in Portugal and can therefore not be considered threatened. It is likely that more records of this moss will be found with new fieldwork in riparian communities.
Young of the common buzzard (Buteo buteo) reared by lesser spotted eagles (Aquila pomarina) in natural conditions in Slovakia
Authors: Dravecký Miroslav , Lehocký Miroslav
Published: January 2014

Since 2005 a breeding pair of A. pomarina has been observed near the village of Drienovec, Košice-Environs district, eastern Slovakia. Since 2009 occupied nests have been found each year with the subject pair. In the years 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2013 this pair successfully reared one young A. pomarina, but in 2012 they reared two B. buteo young during the nesting period in natural conditions and without the intervention of human beings. This is the first such documented case in the entire breeding grounds ofA. pomarina.
Occupy Newfoundland and the Dramaturgy of Endurance
Authors: Shawyer Susanne
Published: January 2014

This article analyzes Occupy Newfoundland and Labrador’s protest occupation of Harbourside Park, St. John’s, as a performance of endurance. The author compares endurance protest dramaturgy to the carnivalesque dramaturgy of theatrical representation and the volcanic dramaturgy of violent disorder used in other anti-globalization demonstrations of the past decade. This article focuses on the material conditions and mundane activities of the Harbourside Park camp, and theorizes the everyday as a place of resistance in endurance performances.
Incorporation of a Stand-Alone Elective Course in Animal Law Within Animal and Veterinary Science Curricula
Authors: Whittaker Alexandra L.
Published: January 2014

Animal law is a burgeoning area of interest within the legal profession, but to date it seems to have received little attention as a discrete discipline area for animal and veterinary scientists. Given the increased focus on animal welfare both within curricula and among the public, it would be remiss of educators not to consider this allied subject, especially since it provides those tools necessary for implementing welfare standards and reducing cruelty. Recommended subject matter, teaching modality, and methods of assessment have been outlined in this article. Such a course should take a multidisciplinary approach and highlight contentious areas of animal law and trends within the wider societal framework of human–animal interactions. From a pedagogical standpoint, a variety of teaching methods and assessment techniques should be included. A problem-based learning approach to encourage the assimilation of facts and promote higher-order learning is favored. The purpose of this article is to provide some guidance on the structure of such a course based on the author's experience in teaching animal law to veterinary and animal science undergraduates in Australia.
A Mobile Multi-Agent Information System for Ubiquitous Fetal Monitoring
Authors: Su Chuan-Jun , Chu Ta-Wei
Published: January 2014

Electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) systems integrate many previously separate clinical activities related to fetal monitoring. Promoting the use of ubiquitous fetal monitoring services with real time status assessments requires a robust information platform equipped with an automatic diagnosis engine. This paper presents the design and development of a mobile multi-agent platform-based open information systems (IMAIS) with an automated diagnosis engine to support intensive and distributed ubiquitous fetal monitoring. The automatic diagnosis engine that we developed is capable of analyzing data in both traditional paper-based and digital formats. Issues related to interoperability, scalability, and openness in heterogeneous e-health environments are addressed through the adoption of a FIPA2000 standard compliant agent development platform—the Java Agent Development Environment (JADE). Integrating the IMAIS with light-weight, portable fetal monitor devices allows for continuous long-term monitoring without interfering with a patient’s everyday activities and without restricting her mobility. The system architecture can be also applied to vast monitoring scenarios such as elder care and vital sign monitoring.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of the Crystallizable Fragment of IgG1—Insights for the Design of Fcabs
Authors: Lai Balder , Hasenhindl Christoph , Obinger Christian , Oostenbrink Chris
Published: January 2014

An interesting format in the development of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies uses the crystallizable fragment of IgG1 as starting scaffold. Engineering of its structural loops allows generation of an antigen binding site. However, this might impair the molecule’s conformational stability, which can be overcome by introducing stabilizing point mutations in the CH3 domains. These point mutations often affect the stability and unfolding behavior of both the CH2 and CH3 domains. In order to understand this cross-talk, molecular dynamics simulations of the domains of the Fc fragment of human IgG1 are reported. The structure of human IgG1-Fc obtained from X-ray crystallography is used as a starting point for simulations of the wild-type protein at two different pH values. The stabilizing effect of a single point mutation in the CH3 domain as well as the impact of the hinge region and the glycan tree structure connected to the CH2 domains is investigated. Regions of high local flexibility were identified as potential sites for engineering antigen binding sites. Obtained data are discussed with respect to the available X-ray structure of IgG1-Fc, directed evolution approaches that screen for stability and use of the scaffold IgG1-Fc in the design of antigen binding Fc proteins.
The Inhibitory Effect of Quercetin on Asymmetric Dimethylarginine-Induced Apoptosis Is Mediated by the Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Pathway in Glomerular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Guo Weikang , Ding Jiaxiang , Zhang Aihua , Dai Wendi , Liu Sha , Diao Zongli , Wang Liyan , Han Xue , Liu Wenhu
Published: January 2014

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is considered an independent mortality and cardiovascular risk factor in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, and contributes to the development of renal fibrosis. Quercetin (QC), a natural component of foods, protects against renal injury. Here, we explored the possible mechanisms that are responsible for ADMA-induced renal fibrosis and the protective effect of QC. We found that ADMA treatment activated the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress sensor proteins phosphorylated protein kinase RNA-activated-like ER kinase (PERK) and inositol requiring-1α (IRE1), which correspondingly induced C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) expression and phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation in glomerular endothelial cells (GEnCs). Following this, ADMA promoted ER stress-induced apoptosis and resulted in transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) expression in GEnCs. SP600125, an inhibitor of JNK, and CHOP siRNA protected against ADMA-induced cell apoptosis and TGF-β expression. QC prevented ADMA-induced PERK and IRE1 apoptotic ER stress pathway activation. Also, ADMA-induced GEnCs apoptosis and TGF-β expression was reduced by QC. Overexpression of CHOP blocked QC-mediated protection from apoptosis in ER stressed cells. Overall, these observations indicate that ADMA may induce GEnCs apoptosis and TGF-β expression by targeting the PERK-CHOP and IRE1-JNK pathway. In addition, drugs such as QC targeting ER stress may hold great promise for the development of novel therapies against ADMA-induced renal fibrosis.
The Multiple Unmanned Air Vehicle Persistent Surveillance Problem: A Review
Authors: Nigam Nikhil
Published: January 2014

Control of autonomous vehicles for applications such as surveillance, search, and exploration has been a topic of great interest over the past two decades. In particular, there has been a rising interest in control of multiple vehicles for reasons such as increase in system reliability, robustness, and efficiency, with a possible reduction in cost. The exploration problem is NP hard even for a single vehicle/agent, and the use of multiple vehicles brings forth a whole new suite of problems associated with communication and cooperation between vehicles. The persistent surveillance problem differs from exploration since it involves continuous/repeated coverage of the target space, minimizing time between re-visits. The use of aerial vehicles demands consideration of vehicle dynamic and endurance constraints as well. Another aspect of the problem that has been investigated to a lesser extent is the design of the vehicles for particular missions. The intent of this paper is to thoroughly review the persistent surveillance problem, with particular focus on multiple Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs), and present some of our own work in this area. We investigate the different aspects of the problem and slightly digress into techniques that have been applied to exploration and coverage, but a comprehensive survey of all the work in multiple vehicle control for search, exploration, and coverage is beyond the scope of this paper.
Celiac Disease and Overweight in Children: An Update
Authors: Diamanti Antonella , Capriati Teresa , Basso Maria , Panetta Fabio , Di Ciommo Laurora Vincenzo , Bellucci Francesca , Cristofori Fernanda , Francavilla Ruggiero
Published: January 2014

The clinical presentation of celiac disease in children is very variable and differs with age. The prevalence of atypical presentations of celiac disease has increased over the past 2 decades. Several studies in adults and children with celiac disease indicate that obesity/overweight at disease onset is not unusual. In addition, there is a trend towards the development of overweight/obesity in celiac patients who strictly comply with a gluten-free diet. However, the pathogenesis and clinical implications of the coexistence of classic malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease) and overweight/obesity remain unclear. This review investigated the causes and main clinical factors associated with overweight/obesity at the diagnosis of celiac disease and clarified whether gluten withdrawal affects the current trends of the nutritional status of celiac disease patients.
Association between Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Inflammatory Cytokines in Healthy Adults
Authors: Sun Xiaomin , Cao Zhen-Bo , Zhang Yuping , Ishimi Yoshiko , Tabata Izumi , Higuchi Mitsuru
Published: January 2014

Here, we aimed to examine the associations between levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and inflammatory cytokines in healthy Japanese adults. A total of 95 healthy adults (61 women; age range 21–69 years) participated in our study. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for 25(OH)D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D], interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-17 (IL-17) levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays kits. Total percent body fat was determined by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was assessed objectively using an activity monitor for 7 days. The mean 25(OH)D concentration was 34.7 nmol/L, and 83 subjects had 25(OH)D concentrations less than 50 nmol/L. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that serum 25(OH)D level was positively related to plasma IL-17 level (β = 0.26, p = 0.025), after adjustment for gender, age, vitamin D intake, alcohol consumption, smoking status, and percent body fat. This relationship remained statistically significant (β = 0.28, p = 0.019) even after additional adjustment for MVPA. However, no significant association was found between serum 25(OH)D level and plasma IFN-γ or IL-6 levels. In conclusion, this study identified a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in healthy Japanese adults. Serum 25(OH)D level was positively related to IL-17 level, independent of physical activity.
On the Capability of Smartphones to Perform as Communication Gateways in Medical Wireless Personal Area Networks
Authors: Morón María , Luque Rafael , Casilari Eduardo
Published: January 2014

This paper evaluates and characterizes the technical performance of medical wireless personal area networks (WPANs) that are based on smartphones. For this purpose, a prototype of a health telemonitoring system is presented. The prototype incorporates a commercial Android smartphone, which acts as a relay point, or “gateway”, between a set of wireless medical sensors and a data server. Additionally, the paper investigates if the conventional capabilities of current commercial smartphones can be affected by their useas gateways or “Holters” in health monitoring applications. Specifically, the profiling has focused on the CPU and power consumption of the mobile devices. These metrics have been measured under several test conditions modifying the smartphone model, the type of sensors connected to the WPAN, the employed Bluetooth profile (SPP (serial port profile) or HDP (health device profile)), the use of other peripherals, such as a GPS receiver, the impact of the use of the Wi-Fi interface or the employed method to encode and forward the data that are collected from the sensors.
Design and Mechanical Evaluation of a Capacitive Sensor-Based Indexed Platform for Verification of Portable Coordinate Measuring Instruments
Authors: Avila Agustín , Mazo Jorge , Martín Juan
Published: January 2014

During the last years, the use of Portable Coordinate Measuring Machines (PCMMs) in industry has increased considerably, mostly due to their flexibility for accomplishing in-line measuring tasks as well as their reduced costs and operational advantages as compared to traditional coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). However, their operation has a significant drawback derived from the techniques applied in the verification and optimization procedures of their kinematic parameters. These techniques are based on the capture of data with the measuring instrument from a calibrated gauge object, fixed successively in various positions so that most of the instrument measuring volume is covered, which results in time-consuming, tedious and expensive verification procedures. In this work the mechanical design of an indexed metrology platform (IMP) is presented. The aim of the IMP is to increase the final accuracy and to radically simplify the calibration, identification and verification of geometrical parameter procedures of PCMMs. The IMP allows us to fix the calibrated gauge object and move the measuring instrument in such a way that it is possible to cover most of the instrument working volume, reducing the time and operator fatigue to carry out these types of procedures.
Selecting Green Supplier of Thermal Power Equipment by Using a Hybrid MCDM Method for Sustainability
Authors: Zhao Huiru , Guo Sen
Published: January 2014

With the growing worldwide awareness of environmental protection and sustainable development, green purchasing has become an important issue for companies to gain environmental and developmental sustainability. Thermal power is the main power generation form in China, and the green supplier selection is essential to the smooth and sustainable construction of thermal power plants. Therefore, selecting the proper green supplier of thermal power equipment is very important to the company’s sustainable development and the sustainability of China’s electric power industry. In this paper, a hybrid fuzzy multi-attribute decision making approach (fuzzy entropy-TOPSIS) is proposed for selecting the best green supplier. The fuzzy set theory is applied to translate the linguistic preferences into triangular fuzzy numbers. The subjective criteria weights are determined by using decision makers’ superiority linguistic ratings and the objective ones are determined by combining the superiority linguistic ratings and fuzzy-entropy weighting method. The fuzzy TOPSIS is employed to generate an overall performance score for each green supplier. An empirical green supplier selection is conducted to illustrate the effectiveness of this proposed fuzzy entropy-TOPSIS approach. This proposed fuzzy entropy-TOPSIS approach can select the proper green supplier of thermal power equipment, which contributes to promoting the company’s sustainable development and the sustainability of China’s electric power industry to some extent.
Implementation of Extended Statistical Entropy Analysis to the Effluent Quality Index of the Benchmarking Simulation Model No. 2
Authors: Sobańtka Alicja , Pons Marie-Noëlle , Zessner Matthias , Rechberger Helmut
Published: January 2014

Extended statistical entropy analysis (eSEA) is used to assess the nitrogen (N) removal performance of the wastewater treatment (WWT) simulation software, the Benchmarking Simulation Model No. 2 (BSM No. 2 ). Six simulations with three different types of wastewater are carried out, which vary in the dissolved oxygen concentration (O2,diss.) during the aerobic treatment. N2O emissions generated during denitrification are included in the model. The N-removal performance is expressed as reduction in statistical entropy, ΔH, compared to the hypothetical reference situation of direct discharge of the wastewater into the river. The parameters chemical and biological oxygen demand (COD, BOD) and suspended solids (SS) are analogously expressed in terms of reduction of COD, BOD, and SS, compared to a direct discharge of the wastewater to the river (ΔEQrest). The cleaning performance is expressed as ΔEQnew, the weighted average of ΔH and ΔEQrest. The results show that ΔEQnew is a more comprehensive indicator of the cleaning performance because, in contrast to the traditional effluent quality index (EQ), it considers the characteristics of the wastewater, includes all N-compounds and their distribution in the effluent, the off-gas, and the sludge. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that realistically expectable N2O emissions have only a moderate impact on ΔEQnew.
Preperitoneal Tunneling – a Novel Technique in Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Insertion
Authors: Modaghegh Mohammad-Hadi Saeed , Kazemzadeh Gholamhossein , Rajabnejad Yaser , Nazemian Fatemeh
Published: January 2014

Introduction

This study describes a new preperitoneal tunneling (PPT) method for inserting a peritoneal dialysis catheter (PDC), thereby lessening surgical complications and increasing the catheter's survival.

Methods

This new technique was used in 23 cases from December 2005 to January 2007 and followed up until March 2011 (63 months). The procedure was performed laparoscopically under local (16 cases) or general (7 cases) anesthesia by one surgeon. Catheter survival is reported by Kaplan-Meyer analysis.

Results

The catheters were mechanically obstructed in 2/23 cases (8.7%); and were withdrawn due to a peritonitis in 2 cases and inadequacy of peritoneal dialysis in 1 case. Ten patients received kidney transplantation and six died before completing this follow-up period. The patients still reaped the benefits of the PDC until receiving a kidney transplant or death. The 5-year survival rate of the catheter was 89%. No incidence of catheter migration, omental wrapping, herniation or leakage was noticed.

Conclusion

Preperitoneal tunneling is a simple and safe method for insertion of PDC, and can effectively prevent catheter migration, dislocation and omental wrapping.
Verification of Shaped Surface Manufacturability and Surface Quality of Stamping Die’s Punch
Authors: Ižol Peter , Draganovská Dagmar , Hudák Juraj , Tomáš Miroslav , Trojčák Tomáš
Published: January 2014

The contribution describes complex solution of stamping punch production from the view manufacturability and quality of stamping punch active surfaces. The application of proposed procedure is shown as an example of manufacturability experimental and production stamping punch designed for complex parts production. There is also proposal of both, the production process and strategies for stamping punch manufacturing. The quality of manufactured parts was reviewed according to its manufactured surfaces by optical evaluation and the roughness measurement on selected areas as well.
Use of Optical Methods for Dimensional Analysis of Multi-Part Moulds
Authors: Mendřický Radomír
Published: January 2014

The paper deals with the possibilities of using non-contact 3D measurement systems for the digital capture and subsequent dimensional and shape analysis of multi-part forms. The paper illustrates a practical method of the 3D digitization of two-part moulds using a combination of TRITOP and ATOS optical systems. It introduces dimensional control of the cavity of a mould during its real closure and compares this method to traditional methods of measurement. The analyses carried out show the undeniable benefits of these innovative approaches in practice, because the appropriate use of optical methods often enables the detection of the errors of products and tools which would be impossible to detect using traditional approaches.
On the Analysis and Customization of an iCIM 3000 System: A take on the Material Flow, its Complexity and a few General Issues to Improve
Authors: Delgado Sobrino Daynier Rolando , Košťál Peter , Vavruška Jan
Published: January 2014

The present paper starts generally describing a few aims and main facilities of an academic-research oriented Institution. However, in essence, the paper mainly offers a step more into the description, analysis, identification of problems and a few customization/initial solution issues of a new iCIM 3000 system In this process, special emphasis is made on the material flow problem. For this, besides offering a description and analysis of the system and its main parts, also some tips on how to define other possible alternative material flow scenarios and a partial analysis of the combinatorial nature of the problem are offered as well; all this is done with the intentions of relating it with the use of simulation tools. For a better comprehension, the previous elements are supported by a few figures and expressions which would help obtaining necessary data. Such data and others will be used in the future, when simulating the scenarios in the search of the best material flow configurations.
Piston Engine Connecting Rod Transient Dynamic Finite Element Analysis and Maintenance Strategy
Authors: Ding Fa Jun
Published: January 2014

Connecting rod is the very important connection and force bearing parts of piston engine crank mechanism; work in the role of various kinds of alternating stress. Taking a general rod from Lycoming IO-360-A1B6 aero-piston engine as the analysis object, first, a 3-D finite element model of the rod is established in ANSYS Workbench. And then, considering the influence of gas pressure in cylinder after ignition acting on the connecting rod under engines rated speed conditions, through the transient dynamic analysis, find in all load steps, the maximum equivalent stress occurred at the transition zone between the shaft and little head, and received the maximum equivalent stress versus time curve, to provide numerical basis for improving high-cycle fatigue reliability of the rod. Finally, according to equivalent stress contours of the rod when gas in cylinder peak pressure occurs, initially identified rods hazardous areas,to provide foundation for the development of standard repair process.
Low Voltage Reactive Power Compensation Technology in Wireless Monitoring System
Authors: Liu Da Peng
Published: January 2014

This paper takes DSP2812 as the core to develop the new reactive power compensation controller, realized the reactive power compensation, detection of the electricity distribution network information, and through mobile phone short message module TC35 to send mobile phone SMS information, remote control compensation capacitor, configuration parameters. The design has the characteristics of flexible and reliable, convenient and practical. This paper analyses the software and hardware structure of controller in detail, and the hardware principle and circuit and the software block diagram of the controller. Controller adopts the integrated control, to maximize the use of compensation equipment to improve the power quality of power grid.
Semantic Complex Event Detection System of Express Delivery Business with Data Support from Multidimensional Space
Authors: Jing Xin , Zhang Jing , Li Jun Huai
Published: January 2014

The express delivery industry of China is relatively backward in the automation degree of critical business processes. The basic reason is that the business-related supporting data, which is scattered in the multidimensional space, is difficult to utilize and process. This paper proposes an automatic data acquisition framework to resolve such difficulty, which synthetically utilize intelligent inernet of things (IoT), semantic web and complext event processing (CEP) technology. We also implement a SCEP prototype system with the capability of real-time detecting complex business events on the goods sorting line, which adopts a detection method consisting of four stages. The simulation results show that the system has good performance and feasible enough to deal with the complex business which need data support from multidimensional space.
Biomechanical Study of Jump Ability for Aerobics Sports Based on Single Chip Technology
Authors: Fan Chao
Published: January 2014

Competitive Aerobics in jumping ability is a special jumping ability, it not only requires jumping height, also called take-off speed and air attitude. Article put 28 students divided into experimental and control groups for a period of eight weeks of Spring Training. The experimental group used mainly jump and practice, the control group mainly continuous Straddle jump exercises. Before and after the experiment in the experimental group and the control group Calisthenics Bounce indicators and biomechanical testing, in order to reflect the effect of two kinds of training methods. Through experiments show that the use of single-chip technology, using jump and exercise, can improve the level of sports aerobics.
Study of New Environmentally Friendly Materials in Interior Design
Authors: Chen Chao
Published: January 2014

With the development and accelerating of economy and social civilization, in the interior decorating and design, the pursuit of personal and environmental friendly trend has gradually emerged, but the traditional building materials and design materials often have safety problems of different degree. The green environmental protection materials can also meet the two requirements mentioned above. This paper mainly analyzes the causes and characteristics of interior decoration design using environmentally friendly materials, understands several kinds of environmentally friendly materials available in interior decoration design, and analyses specific direction for practical application.
Analysis on Influencing Factors of Degradation of Water Treatment with Ultrasonic Wave Based on GPC
Authors: Li Hou Wang , Zhao Shu Sha
Published: January 2014

To promote the application of the ultrasonic technology in pollution control, the introduction and the analysis of development of this technology, the basic theory of ultrasonic degradation and the influencing factors of ultrasonic degradation were studied in this paper. The analysis of molecular weight and distribution of wastewater and the elaboration of the influences of the ultrasonic frequency, power and the duration on the degradation were conducted by GPC. And an objective and reasonable explanation was advanced: in a certain range, proper increase of the ultrasonic frequency, power or duration would enhance its degradation; but excessive increase of the frequency, power or the increase of temperature due to long duration would decrease the degradation.
Study on Transformation of Intelligent Electronic Engineering Structural Model
Authors: Liu Ling Li
Published: January 2014

Intelligent products are one of the most popular trends at present and occupy a primary position in many countries. This is a development opportunity for China, so it is necessary to find out the trunk line independent of the backbone of the society, while environmental protection and sustainable development are another two hot topics in the world today. Therefore, the two sides should be combined together, so as to achieve the effect of occupying a position in China. In this paper, the reverse transformation of intelligent electronic engineering structural model is mainly introduced.
Adaptive Evaluation System Based on IRT Theory
Authors: Min Jiang , Wei Dong
Published: January 2014

This paper, on the basis of the author realizing the skill evaluation system based on real environment, discusses several commonly used parameter estimation methods based on item response theory ( IRT ) and analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of each estimation method and their respective application fields. Also, it expounds the research theory and design process of skill adaptive evaluation system based on real environment and the innovation of the system.
Ecological Approach for Low-Carbon Landscape Architectural Design
Authors: Zhu Shao Hua
Published: January 2014

With China's rapid economic development, the construction industry plays an important role in promoting both economic development and urban construction. However, due to the characteristics of construction industry itself, it is seen the most important industry as a move towards a low-carbon economy. So we should bring in the concept of low-carbon and establish low-carbon awareness. Meanwhile, in recent years, for the science and technology are making rapid development around the world, new technology and materials are emerging, along with the architectural design constantly changing people's thinking patterns. The process of scientific influencing architecture is gradually accelerating and it is necessary for researches to have a greater emphasis on concepts and methods of science than aesthetics and awareness.
Study on Constructing Arch-Centre Structure of Wood Arcade Bridges
Authors: Wu Zhuo Jia , Li Zi Lin
Published: January 2014

The arcade bridge is the crystallization of the ancient working people's time and wisdom, and owns a high scientific, cultural, historical, and artistic value. Each wood arcade bridge is different in the form. In this paper, the core technology for constructing the arch-centre structure of wood arcade bridges in southern Zhejiang is studied.
Study of Construction Ecological Livable City in Nanning
Authors: Wang Li Hua , Liu Shu Hua
Published: January 2014

Congregation of the human activities, changes of the environment and weakening of the ecological capacity, prompts the emergence of new development concept. In order to adapt the development need, Ecological livable cities becoming a new pattern in the 21st century. This article puts forward with the significance of the construction of ecological livable city, analyses the achievement and problem of the construction of ecological livable cities in Nanning, and some methods and countermeasures are also proposed. Obviously, the ecological livable city is regarded as a key and direction for the development of Nanning in the future.