bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Ulcerative Colitis in a Northeast Brazilian Population
Authors: da Silva Bruno César , Lyra Andre Castro , Mendes Carlos Maurício Cardeal , Ribeiro Camila Paula Oliveira , Lisboa Sonyara Rauedys Oliveira , de Souza Mariana Tinoco Lordello , Portela Renata Cavalcanti , Santana Genoile Oliveira
Published: October 2015

Introduction. The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical and demographic characteristics of UC in Bahia, a Brazilian state, and to identify the variables associated with extensive colitis, steroid therapy, immunosuppression, and colectomy.Methods. In this cross-sectional study UC patients were interviewed, and additional information was collected from the medical records. Descriptive statistics and multivariate Poisson regression analysis were used.Results. This study included 267 individuals, the mean age of whom was 39.4 years at diagnosis. There was a predominance of females and left-side colitis. Extensive colitis was positively associated with male gender, diarrhea, weight loss, and a younger age at diagnosis. In contrast, active smoking and a family history of IBD were negatively associated with extensive colitis. Positive associations were observed between steroid therapy and diarrhea, weight loss, urban patients, extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs), and hospitalization. Younger age and weight loss at diagnosis, a family history of IBD, extensive colitis, EIMs, hospitalization, and steroid therapy were all positively associated with immunosuppression. In contrast, Caucasian individuals, smokers, patients with rectal bleeding, and rural patients areas were all observed to have a decreased likelihood of immunosuppression.Conclusions. Our results corroborate the association between higher prevalence of extensive colitis and younger age at diagnosis. An association between steroid therapy and clinical presentation at diagnosis was observed. The observation that white individuals and rural patients use less immunosuppressive drugs highlights the need to study the influence of environmental and genetic factors on the behavior of UC in this population.
Twelve-Month Results of a Single or Multiple Dexamethasone Intravitreal Implant for Macular Edema following Uncomplicated Phacoemulsification
Authors: Abdolrahimzadeh Solmaz , Fenicia Vito , Maurizi Enrici Maurizio , Plateroti Pasquale , Cianfrone Dora , Recupero Santi Maria
Published: October 2015

The clinical efficacy of one or two intravitreal injections of a continued deliverance dexamethasone 700 μg implant in ten patients with persistent macular edema following uncomplicated phacoemulsification was evaluated. Complete ophthalmological examination and spectral domain optical coherence tomography were carried out. Follow-up was at day 7 and months 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12. At baseline mean best corrected visual acuity was 62 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study Chart letters, which showed statistically significant improvement at each follow-up, except at month 6, to reach 79 letters at month 12 (P=0.018). Prior to treatment mean central foveal thickness was 622 μm, which showed statistically significant improvement at each follow-up to reach a mean value of 282 μm (P=0.012) at month 12. Five patients received a second dexamethasone implant at month 7. Two patients were excluded from the study at months 4 and 8. Intraocular pressure remained stable during the study period with the exception of mild increase in two patients requiring topical therapy. In conclusion there was statistically significant improvement of best corrected visual acuity and mean central foveal thickness with one or two intravitreal dexamethasone implants over 12 months.
Proinflammatory Cytokines and Potassium Channels in the Kidney
Authors: Nakamura Kazuyoshi , Hayashi Hikaru , Kubokawa Manabu
Published: October 2015

Proinflammatory cytokines affect several cell functions via receptor‐mediated processes. In the kidney, functions of transporters and ion channels along the nephron are also affected by some cytokines. Among these, alteration of activity of potassium ion (K+) channels induces changes in transepithelial transport of solutes and water in the kidney, since K+ channels in tubule cells are indispensable for formation of membrane potential which serves as a driving force for the transepithelial transport. Altered K+ channel activity may be involved in renal cell dysfunction during inflammation. Although little information was available regarding the effects of proinflammatory cytokines on renal K+ channels, reports have emerged during the last decade. In human proximal tubule cells, interferon‐γ showed a time‐dependent biphasic effect on a 40 pS K+ channel, that is, delayed suppression and acute stimulation, and interleukin‐1β acutely suppressed the channel activity. Transforming growth factor‐β1 activated KCa3.1 K+ channel in immortalized human proximal tubule cells, which would be involved in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis. This review discusses the effects of proinflammatory cytokines on renal K+ channels and the causal relationship between the cytokine‐induced changes in K+ channel activity and renal dysfunction.
Experimental Assessment on the Flexural Bonding Performance of Concrete Beam with GFRP Reinforcing Bar under Repeated Loading
Authors: Ju Minkwan , Oh Hongseob
Published: October 2015

This study intends to investigate the flexural bond performance of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) reinforcing bar under repeated loading. The flexural bond tests reinforced with GFRP reinforcing bars were carried out according to the BS EN 12269-1 (2000) specification. The bond test consisted of three loading schemes: static, monotonic, and variable-amplitude loading to simulate ambient loading conditions. The empirical bond length based on the static test was 225 mm, whereas it was 317 mm according to ACI 440 1R-03. Each bond stress on the rib is released and bonding force is enhanced as the bond length is increased. Appropriate level of bond length may be recommended with this energy-based analysis. For the monotonic loading test, the bond strengths at pullout failure after 2,000,000 cycles were 10.4 MPa and 6.5 MPa, respectively: 63–70% of the values from the static loading test. The variable loading test indicated that the linear cumulative damage theory on GFRP bonding may not be appropriate for estimating the fatigue limit when subjected to variable-amplitude loading.
Comparison of Pressure Changes by Head and Neck Position between High-Volume Low-Pressure and Taper-Shaped Cuffs: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Komasawa Nobuyasu , Mihara Ryosuke , Imagawa Kentaro , Hattori Kazuo , Minami Toshiaki
Published: October 2015

The present study compared changes in cuff pressure by head and neck position between high-volume low-pressure (HVLP) and taper-shaped (taper) cuffs in a prospective randomized clinical trial.Methods. Forty patients were intubated using tracheal tubes with either HVLP (n=20; HVLP group) or taper-shaped (n=20; Taper group) cuffs. Initial cuff pressure was adjusted to 15, 20, or 25 cmH2O in the neutral position. Cuff pressure was evaluated after changing the head and neck positions to flexion, extension, and rotation.Results. Cuff pressure significantly increased with flexion in both HVLP and Taper groups at all initial cuff pressures. It significantly increased with extension in the HVLP group, but not in the Taper group. Cuff pressure did not significantly differ with rotation in either group and was significantly smaller in the Taper group during flexion and extension than in the HVLP group, regardless of initial cuff pressure.Conclusion. Cuff pressure changes with head and neck flexion and extension were smaller in the Taper group than in the HVLP group. Our results highlight the potential for taper cuffs to prevent excessive cuff pressure increases with positional changes in the head and neck. This trial is registered withUMIN000016119.
Low Intensity Physical Exercise Attenuates Cardiac Remodeling and Myocardial Oxidative Stress and Dysfunction in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Gimenes C. , Gimenes R. , Rosa C. M. , Xavier N. P. , Campos D. H. S. , Fernandes A. A. H. , Cezar M. D. M. , Guirado G. N. , Cicogna A. C. , Takamoto A. H. R. , Okoshi M. P. , Okoshi K.
Published: October 2015

We evaluated the effects of a low intensity aerobic exercise protocol on cardiac remodeling and myocardial function in diabetic rats. Wistar rats were assigned into four groups: sedentary control (C-Sed), exercised control (C-Ex), sedentary diabetes (DM-Sed), and exercised diabetes (DM-Ex). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Rats exercised for 9 weeks in treadmill at 11 m/min, 18 min/day. Myocardial function was evaluated in left ventricular (LV) papillary muscles and oxidative stress in LV tissue. Statistical analysis was given by ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis. Echocardiogram showed diabetic groups with higher LV diastolic diameter-to-body weight ratio and lower posterior wall shortening velocity than controls. Left atrium diameter was lower in DM-Ex than DM-Sed (C-Sed:5.73±0.49; C-Ex:5.67±0.53; DM-Sed:6.41±0.54; DM-Ex:5.81±0.50 mm;P<0.05DM-Sed vs C-Sed and DM-Ex). Papillary muscle function was depressed in DM-Sed compared to C-Sed. Exercise attenuated this change in DM-Ex. Lipid hydroperoxide concentration was higher in DM-Sed than C-Sed and DM-Ex. Catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were lower in diabetics than controls and higher in DM-Ex than DM-Sed. Glutathione peroxidase activity was lower in DM-Sed than C-Sed and DM-Ex.Conclusion.Low intensity exercise attenuates left atrium dilation and myocardial oxidative stress and dysfunction in type 1 diabetic rats.
A Variational Bayesian Superresolution Approach Using Adaptive Image Prior Model
Authors: Zhao Shengrong , Jin Renchao , Xu Xiangyang , Song Enmin , Hung Chih-Cheng
Published: October 2015

The objective of superresolution is to reconstruct a high-resolution image by using the information of a set of low-resolution images. Recently, the variational Bayesian superresolution approach has been widely used. However, these methods cannot preserve edges well while removing noises. For this reason, we propose a new image prior model and establish a Bayesian superresolution reconstruction algorithm. In the proposed prior model, the degree of interaction between pixels is adjusted adaptively by an adaptive norm, which is derived based on the local image features. Moreover, in this paper, a monotonically decreasing function is used to calculate and update the single parameter, which is used to control the severity of penalizing image gradients in the proposed prior model. Thus, the proposed prior model is adaptive to the local image features thoroughly. With the proposed prior model, the edge details are preserved and noises are reduced simultaneously. A variational Bayesian inference is employed in this paper, and the formulas for calculating all the variables including the HR image, motion parameters, and hyperparameters are derived. These variables are refined progressively in an iterative manner. Experimental results show that the proposed SR approach is very efficient when compared to existing approaches.
An Accurate Modulation Recognition Method of QPSK Signal
Authors: Feng Yongxin , Teng Zhenyu , Meng Fanwei , Qian Bo
Published: October 2015

Quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) modulation has been widely applied in communication systems. With the increasing development of QPSK modulation recognition, it is meaningful for ensuring validity and accuracy of recognition method. Therefore, the method of signal recognition has been presented based on the features of QPSK modulated signal, in which the feature parameters of QPSK signal are extracted. Besides, signal classification is fulfilled through thresholds, and modulation recognition is completed with quartic spectrum. The simulation results show that, the method can recognize QPSK modulation effectively in less sample space condition and can be more accurate.
Dynamic Track Management in MHT for Pedestrian Tracking Using Laser Range Finder
Authors: Abd Rahman Abdul Hadi , Zamzuri Hairi , Mazlan Saiful Amri , Abdul Rahman Mohd Azizi , Yamamoto Yoshio , Samsuri Saiful Bahri
Published: October 2015

Real time pedestrian tracking could be one of the important features for autonomous navigation. Laser Range Finder (LRF) produces accurate pedestrian data but a problem occurs when a pedestrian is represented by multiple clusters which affect the overall tracking process. Multiple Hypothesis Tracking (MHT) is a proven method to solve tracking problem but suffers a large computational cost. In this paper, a multilevel clustering of LRF data is proposed to improve the accuracy of a tracking system by adding another clustering level after the feature extraction process. A Dynamic Track Management (DTM) is introduced in MHT with multiple motion models to perform a track creation, association, and deletion. The experimental results from real time implementation prove that the proposed multiclustering is capable of producing a better performance with less computational complexity for a track management process. The proposed Dynamic Track Management is able to solve the tracking problem with lower computation time when dealing with occlusion, crossed track, and track deletion.
Assessment of Hair Aluminum, Lead, and Mercury in a Sample of Autistic Egyptian Children: Environmental Risk Factors of Heavy Metals in Autism
Authors: Mohamed Farida El Baz , Zaky Eman Ahmed , El-Sayed Adel Bassuoni , Elhossieny Reham Mohammed , Zahra Sally Soliman , Salah Eldin Waleed , Youssef Walaa Yousef , Khaled Rania Abdelmgeed , Youssef Azza Mohamed
Published: October 2015

Background and Aims. The etiological factors involved in the etiology of autism remain elusive and controversial, but both genetic and environmental factors have been implicated. The aim of this study was to assess the levels and possible environmental risk factors and sources of exposure to mercury, lead, and aluminum in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as compared to their matched controls.Methods. One hundred ASD children were studied in comparison to 100 controls. All participants were subjected to clinical evaluation and measurement of mercury, lead, and aluminum through hair analysis which reflects past exposure.Results. The mean Levels of mercury, lead, and aluminum in hair of the autistic patients were significantly higher than controls. Mercury, lead, and aluminum levels were positively correlated with maternal fish consumptions, living nearby gasoline stations, and the usage of aluminum pans, respectively.Conclusion. Levels of mercury, lead, and aluminum in the hair of autistic children are higher than controls. Environmental exposure to these toxic heavy metals, at key times in development, may play a causal role in autism.
Influence of Monodisperse Fe3O4 Nanoparticle Size on Electrical Properties of Vegetable Oil‐Based Nanofluids
Authors: Du Bin , Li Jian , Wang Feipeng , Yao Wei , Yao Shuhan
Published: October 2015

Insulating oil modified by nanoparticles (often called nanofluids) has recently drawn considerable attention, especially concerning the improvement of electrical breakdown and thermal conductivity of the nanofluids. In this paper, three sized monodisperse Fe3O4 nanoparticles were prepared and subsequently dispersed into insulating vegetable oil to achieve nanofluids. The dispersion stability of nanoparticles in nanofluids was examined by natural sedimentation and zeta potential measurement. The electrical breakdown strength, space charge distribution, and several dielectric characteristics, for example, permittivity, dielectric loss, and volume resistivity of these nanofluids, were comparatively investigated. Experimental results show that the monodisperse Fe3O4 nanoparticles not only enhance the dielectric strength but also uniform the electric field of the nanofluids. The depth of electrical potential well of insulating vegetable oils and nanofluids were analyzed to clarify the influence of nanoparticles on electron trapping and on insulation improvement of the vegetable oil.
A New Image Denoising Method by Combining WT with ICA
Authors: Ruan Chengzhi , Zhao Dean , Jia Weikuan , Chen Chen , Chen Yu , Liu Xiaoyang
Published: October 2015

In order to improve the image denoising ability, the wavelet transform (WT) and independent component analysis (ICA) are both introduced into image denoising in this paper. Although these two algorithms have their own advantages in image denoising, they are unable to reduce noises completely, which makes it difficult to achieve ideal effect. Therefore, a new image denoising method is proposed based on the combination of WT with ICA (WT-ICA). For verifying the WT-ICA denoising method, we adopt four image denoising methods for comparison: median filtering (MF), wavelet soft thresholding (WST), ICA, and WT-ICA. From the experimental results, it is shown that WT-ICA can significantly reduce noises and get lower-noise image. Moreover, the average of WT-ICA denoising image’s peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR) is improved by 20.54% compared with noisy image and 11.68% compared with the classical WST denoising image, which demonstrates its advantage. From the performance of texture and edge detection, denoising image by WT-ICA is closer to the original image. Therefore, the new method has its unique advantage in image denoising, which lays a solid foundation for the realization of further image processing task.
Postmarketing Safety Surveillance and Reevaluation of Danhong Injection: Clinical Study of 30888 Cases
Authors: Li Xue-Lin , Tang Jin-Fa , Li Wei-Xia , Li Chun-Xiao , Zhao Tao , Zhao Bu-Chang , Wang Yong , Zhang Hui , Chen Xiao-Fei , Xu Tao , Zhu Ming-Jun
Published: October 2015

Traditional Chinese medicine injections (TCMIs) have played an irreplaceable role for treating some clinical emergency, severe illness, and infectious diseases in China. In recent years, the incidence rates of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) of TCMIs have increased year by year. Danhong injection (DHI) is one representative TCMI comprised of Danshen and Honghua for treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in clinic. In present study, the postmarketing safety surveillance and reevaluation of DHI were reported. Total 30888 patients in 37 hospitals from 6 provinces participated in the study. The results showed that the ADR incidence rate of DHI was 3.50‰. Seventeen kinds of new adverse reactions of DHI were found. The main type of ADRs of DHI was type A (including sweating, dizziness, headache, flushing, vasodilation, eye hemorrhage, faintness, chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness, anxious, nausea, flatulence, vomiting, hypotension, hypertension, local numbness, dyspnea, joint disease, and tinnitus) accounting for 57.75%. The severities of most ADRs of DHI were mild and moderate reactions accounting for 25.93% and 66.67%, respectively. The main disposition of ADRs of DHI was drug withdrawal and without any treatments. The results can provide basis for amendment and improvement of the instructions of DHI, as well as demonstration and reference for the postmarketing safety surveillance and reevaluation of other TCMIs. And the rationality, scientificity, and safety of clinical applications of TCMIs could be improved.
Modulatory Effects ofEschscholzia californicaAlkaloids on Recombinant GABAAReceptors
Authors: Fedurco Milan , Gregorová Jana , Šebrlová Kristýna , Kantorová Jana , Peš Ondřej , Baur Roland , Sigel Erwin , Táborská Eva
Published: October 2015

The California poppy (Eschscholzia californicaCham.) contains a variety of natural compounds including several alkaloids found exclusively in this plant. Because of the sedative, anxiolytic, and analgesic effects, this herb is currently sold in pharmacies in many countries. However, our understanding of these biological effects at the molecular level is still lacking. Alkaloids detected inE. californicacould be hypothesized to act at GABAAreceptors, which are widely expressed in the brain mainly at the inhibitory interneurons. Electrophysiological studies on a recombinantα1β2γ2GABAAreceptor showed no effect ofN-methyllaurotetanine at concentrations lower than 30 μM. However, (S)-reticuline behaved as positive allosteric modulator at theα3,α5, andα6isoforms of GABAAreceptors. The depressant properties of aerial parts ofE. californicaare assigned to chloride-current modulation by (S)-reticuline at theα3β2γ2andα5β2γ2GABAAreceptors. Interestingly,α1,α3, andα5were not significantly affected by (R)-reticuline, 1,2-tetrahydroreticuline, codeine, and morphine—suspected (S)-reticuline metabolites in the rodent brain.
Recurrent Thrombotic Events after Discontinuation of Vitamin K Antagonist Treatment for Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Riva Nicoletta , Ageno Walter , Poli Daniela , Testa Sophie , Rupoli Serena , Santoro Rita , Lerede Teresa , Piana Antonietta , Carpenedo Monica , Nicolini Alberto , Ferrini Piera Maria , Martini Giuliana , Mangione Catello , Contino Laura , Bonfanti Carlo , Gresele Paolo , Tosetto Alberto
Published: October 2015

It is generally recommended that patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) should receive a minimum of 3 months of anticoagulant treatment. However, little information is available on the long-term risk of recurrent thrombotic events. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk of venous and arterial thrombosis after discontinuation of vitamin K antagonist (VKA) in SVT patients. Retrospective information from a cohort of SVT patients treated with VKA and followed by 37 Italian Anticoagulation Clinics, up to June 2013, was collected. Only patients who discontinued VKA and did not receive any other anticoagulant drug were enrolled in this study. Thrombotic events during follow-up were centrally adjudicated. Ninety patients were included: 33 unprovoked SVT, 27 SVT secondary to transient risk factors, and 30 with permanent risk factors. During a median follow-up of 1.6 years, 6 venous and 1 arterial thrombosis were documented, for an incidence of 3.3/100 patient-years (pt-y). The recurrence rate was highest in the first year after VKA discontinuation (8.2/100’pt-y) and in patients with permanent risk factors (10.2/100’pt-y). Liver cirrhosis significantly increased the risk of recurrence. In conclusion, the rate of recurrent vascular complications after SVT is not negligible, at least in some patient subgroups.
Study on Wireless Network Communication in Stage Hydraulic Monitoring System Based on Internet of Things
Authors: Dong Yue , Ren Hui , Dong Jianghui , Wang Liping
Published: October 2015

A novel stage hydraulic monitoring system based on Internet of Things (IoT) is proposed in this paper. Compared with the traditional wired system, the proposed system is a flexible working method and can save the cost. Furthermore, it has the low power consumption, high safety, and large scale network. The real-time pressure and flow data can be collected by using the nodes in ZigBee network. The fault detection and diagnosis process was used in this study, which was facilitated by measuring pressure of flow. When the monitored data exceeds the normal range, some failure may occur in the stage hydraulic system. If any failure occurs in the circuit, the maintainers can be informed immediately, which can greatly improve maintenance efficiency, ensuring the failure to be eliminated in time. Meanwhile, we can take advantage of wireless sensor network (WSN) to connect the multiple loops and then monitor the loops by using ZigBee technology, which greatly improves the efficiency of monitoring.
MTAD: A Multitarget Heuristic Algorithm for Virtual Machine Placement
Authors: Chen Lei , Zhang Jing , Cai Lijun , Li Rui , He Tingqin , Meng Tao
Published: October 2015

Cloud data centers are facing increasingly virtual machine (VM) placement problems, such as high energy consumption, imbalanced utilization of multidimension resource, and high resource wastage rate. In order to solve the virtual machine placement problems in large scale, three algorithms are proposed. Firstly, we propose a physical machine (PM) classification algorithm by analyzing pseudotime complexity and find out an important factor (the number of physical hosts) that affects the efficiency, which improves running efficiency through reduction number of physical hosts; secondly, we present a VM placement optimization model using multitarget heuristic algorithm and figure out the positive and negative vectors of three goals using matrix transformation so as to provide the mapping of VMs to hosts by comparing distance with positive and negative vectors such that the energy consumption is saved, resources wastage of occupied PM is lowered, multidimension resource utilization is optimized, and the running time is shortened. Finally, we consider the poor placement efficiency problem of large-scale virtual serial requests and design a concurrent VM classification algorithm using theK-means method. Simulation experiments validate the performance of the algorithm in four aspects, including placement efficiency, resources utilization balance rate, wastage rate, and energy consumption.
Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Tachycardia with Structural Abnormalities of the Right Ventricle and Left Ventricular Diverticulum
Authors: Martini Bortolo , Trevisi Nicola , Martini Nicolò , Zhang Li
Published: October 2015

A 43-year-old woman presented to the emergency room with a sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT). ECG showed a QRS in left bundle branch block morphology with inferior axis. Echocardiography, ventricular angiography, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) revealed a normal right ventricle and a left ventricular diverticulum. Electrophysiology studies with epicardial voltage mapping identified a large fibrotic area in the inferolateral layer of the right ventricular wall and a small area of fibrotic tissue at the anterior right ventricular outflow tract. VT ablation was successfully performed with combined epicardial and endocardial approaches.
Prestress Accumulation-Release Technique for Damping of Impact-Born Vibrations: Application to Self-Deployable Structures
Authors: Mróz Arkadiusz , Holnicki-Szulc Jan , Biczyk Jan
Published: October 2015

A numerical study is presented, which tailors so-called prestress accumulation-release (PAR) strategy to mitigate free vibrations of frame structures. First, the concept of proposed semiactive technique is outlined and possible applications are specified. In the second part of the work a parametric study is discussed, which illustrates the potential of the method for mitigation of free vibrations induced by impact or other initial load scenarios. Special attention is given to the energy balance including all relevant contributions to the total energy of the considered dissipative system. The proposed technique shows a very high potential in mitigation of free vibrations, exceeding 99% of the reference amplitude after 5 cycles of vibration.
Shape Modification forλ-Bézier Curves Based on Constrained Optimization of Position and Tangent Vector
Authors: Hu Gang , Ji Xiaomin , Qin Xinqiang , Zhang Suxia
Published: October 2015

Besides inheriting the properties of classical Bézier curves of degreen, the correspondingλ-Bézier curves have a good performance on adjusting their shapes by changing shape control parameter. Specially, in the case where the shape control parameter equals zero, theλ-Bézier curves degenerate to the classical Bézier curves. In this paper, the shape modification ofλ-Bézier curves by constrained optimization of position and tangent vector is investigated. The definition and properties ofλ-Bézier curves are given in detail, and the shape modification is implemented by optimizing perturbations of control points. At the same time, the explicit formulas of modifying control points and shape parameter are obtained by Lagrange multiplier method. Using this algorithm,λ-Bézier curves are modified to satisfy the specified constraints of position and tangent vector, meanwhile the shape-preserving property is still retained. In order to illustrate its ability on adjusting the shape ofλ-Bézier curves, some curve design applications are discussed, which show that the proposed method is effective and easy to implement.
High Power Efficiency Buck Converter Design for Standalone Wind Generation System
Authors: Huangfu Yigeng , Ma Ruiqing , Liang Bo , Li Yuren
Published: October 2015

In wind generation system, the power converter efficiency is one of the key factors for the performance of the system. In those systems, DC/DC Buck converter is widely used for high power system. Considering the converter’s cost and efficiency, this paper mainly focuses on the design of an improved topology Buck converter adopted for high power standalone wind generation system. The designed converter uses multi-MOSFETs in parallel instead of the IGBTs, in order to increase the conductive current as well as the converter switch frequency. From the experimental tests results, the maximum efficiency of the designed 2 kW Buck converter is up to 96% based on maximum power point tracking (MPPT) method.
Reversible Myocarditis and Pericarditis after Black Widow Spider Bite or Kounis Syndrome?
Authors: Yaman Mehmet , Mete Turkan , Ozer Ismail , Yaman Elif , Beton Osman
Published: October 2015

Clinical manifestation of black widow spider bite is variable and occasionally leads to death in rural areas. Cases of myocarditis and pericarditis after black widow spider bite are rare and the associated prognostic significance is unknown. Kounis syndrome has been defined as an acute coronary syndrome in the setting of allergic or hypersensitivity and anaphylactic or anaphylactoid insults that manifests as vasospastic angina or acute myocardial infarction or stent thrombosis. Allergic myocarditis is caused by myocardial inflammation triggered by infectious pathogens, toxic, ischemic, or mechanical injuries, such as drug-related inflammation and other immune reactions. A 15-year-old child was admitted to the emergency department with pulmonary edema after spider bite. ST segment depression on ECG, elevated cardiac enzymes and global left ventricular hypokinesia (with ejection fraction of 22%), and local pericardial effusion findings confirmed the diagnosis of myopericarditis. After heart failure and pulmonary edema oriented medical therapy, clinical status improved. Patient showed a progressive improvement and LV functions returned to normal on the sixth day. Myopericarditis complicating spider bite is rare and sometimes fatal. The mechanism is not clearly known. Alpha-latrotoxin of the black widow spider is mostly convicted in these cases. But allergy or hypersensitivity may play a role in myocardial damage.
Potential Biomarkers of Fat Loss as a Feature of Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Ebadi Maryam , Mazurak Vera C.
Published: October 2015

Fat loss is associated with shorter survival and reduced quality of life in cancer patients.
Effective intervention for fat loss in cachexia requires identification of the condition using prognostic biomarkers for early detection and prevention of further depletion. No biomarkers of fat mass alterations have been defined for application to the neoplastic state. Several inflammatory cytokines have been implicated in mediating fat loss associated with cachexia; however, plasma levels may not relate to adipose atrophy. Zinc‐α2‐glycoprotein may be a local catabolic mediator within adipose tissue rather than serving as a plasma biomarker of fat loss. Plasma glycerol and leptin associate with adipose tissue atrophy and mass, respectively; however, no study has evaluated their potential as a prognostic biomarker of cachexia‐associated fat loss. This review confirms the need for further studies to identify valid prognostic biomarkers to identify loss of fat based on changes in plasma levels of biomarkers.
Blue to Yellow Photoluminescence Emission and Photocatalytic Activity of Nitrogen Doping in TiO2Powders
Authors: Byzynski Gabriela , Ribeiro Caue , Longo Elson
Published: October 2015

The defects caused by doping are important for understanding the increased photocatalytic activities of TiO2:N in organic reactions and in the evaluation of OH radical production after doping. TiO2:N was therefore synthesized using a modified polymeric method and N doping was performed by calcination with urea. The resulting powders were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, and photoluminescence emission spectroscopy (PL). N doping did not alter the morphology of the nanoparticles, and the anatase phase predominated, with the retention of the rutile phase. The band gap values, superficial areas, and crystallite sizes of the powders decreased after doping. The PL results showed an additional energy level in the TiO2:N band gap structure as a result of TiO2lattice defects caused by doping. At low N contents, the powders showed continuous emissions from the blue region to the yellow region and a high N content shifted the PL emissions to the red region. These results suggest that the use of these powders could increase the efficiencies of solar cells and water-splitting processes. The photocatalytic activity of the powders under UVC illumination was confirmed for different organic dye molecules. The OH radical production did not change extensively after doping, as shown by experiments with terephthalic acid, and higher photocatalytic efficiencies in Rhodamine-B degradation under UVC illumination were achieved using the doped samples.
Fabrication of an Amperometric Flow-Injection Microfluidic Biosensor Based on Laccase for In Situ Determination of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Gonzalez-Rivera Juan C. , Osma Johann F.
Published: October 2015

We aim to develop an in situ microfluidic biosensor based on laccase fromTrametes pubescenswith flow-injection and amperometry as the transducer method. The enzyme was directly immobilized by potential step chronoamperometry, and the immobilization was studied using cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The electrode response by amperometry was probed using ABTS and syringaldazine. A shift of interfacial electron transfer resistance and the electron transfer rate constant from 18.1 kΩ to 3.9 MΩ and 4.6 × 10−2 cm s−1to 2.1 × 10−4 cm s−1, respectively, evidenced that laccase was immobilized on the electrode by the proposed method. We established the optimum operating conditions of temperature (55°C), pH (4.5), injection flow rate (200 µL min−1), and applied potential (0.4 V). Finally, the microfluidic biosensor showed better lower limit of detection (0.149 µM) and sensitivity (0.2341 nA µM−1) for ABTS than previous laccase-based biosensors and the in situ operation capacity.
Dynamic Carrying Capacity Analysis of Double-Row Four-Point Contact Ball Slewing Bearing
Authors: Li Yunfeng , Jiang Di
Published: October 2015

Carrying capacity is the most important performance index for slewing bearings. Maximizing the carrying capacity of slewing bearing is one pursuing goal for the bearing designer; this is usually realized by optimizing the design parameters. A method of analyzing the carrying capacity of double-row four-point contact ball slewing bearing by using dynamic carrying capacity surfaces was proposed in this paper. Based on the dynamic load carrying capacity surface of the slewing bearing, the effect of changes of the bearing design parameters, such as axial clearance, raceway groove radius coefficient, and contact angle, on the dynamic carrying capacity of the slewing bearing was researched; the trend and the degree of the effect of the micro changes of the bearing design parameters on the dynamic load carrying capacity of the bearing were discussed, and the results provide the basis for optimizing the design parameter of this type of slewing bearing.
Multirunway Optimization Schedule of Airport Based on Improved Genetic Algorithm by Dynamical Time Window
Authors: Zhou Hang , Jiang Xinxin
Published: October 2015

Reasonable airport runway scheduling is an effective measure to alleviate air traffic congestion. This paper proposes a new model and algorithm for flight scheduling. Considering the factors such as operating conditions and flight safety interval, the runway throughput, flight delays cost, and controller workload composes a multiobjective optimization model. The genetic algorithm combined with sliding time window algorithm is used to solve the model proposed in this paper. Simulation results show that the algorithm presented in this paper gets the optimal results, the runway throughput is increased by 12.87%, the delay cost is reduced by 61.46%, and the controller workload is also significantly reduced compared with FCFS (first come first served). Meanwhile, compared with the general genetic algorithm, it also reduces the time complexity and improves real-time and work efficiency significantly. The analysis results can provide guidance for air traffic controllers to make better air traffic control.
Oxidative Stress Type Influences the Properties of Antioxidants Containing Polyphenols in RINm5F Beta Cells
Authors: Auberval Nathalie , Dal Stéphanie , Bietiger William , Seyfritz Elodie , Peluso Jean , Muller Christian , Zhao Minjie , Marchioni Eric , Pinget Michel , Jeandidier Nathalie , Maillard Elisa , Schini-Kerth Valérie , Sigrist Séverine
Published: October 2015

Thein vitromethods currently used to screen bioactive compounds focus on the use of a single model of oxidative stress. However, this simplistic view may lead to conflicting results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant properties of two natural extracts (a mix of red wine polyphenols (RWPs) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)) with three models of oxidative stress induced with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a mixture of hypoxanthine and xanthine oxidase (HX/XO), or streptozotocin (STZ) in RINm5F beta cells. We employed multiple approaches to validate their potential as therapeutic treatment options, including cell viability, reactive oxygen species production, and antioxidant enzymes expression. All three oxidative stresses induced a decrease in cell viability and an increase in apoptosis, whereas the level of ROS production was variable depending on the type of stress. The highest level of ROS was found for the HX/XO-induced stress, an increase that was reflected by higher expression antioxidant enzymes. Further, both antioxidant compounds presented beneficial effects during oxidative stress, but EGCG appeared to be a more efficient antioxidant. These data indicate that the efficiency of natural antioxidants is dependent on both the nature of the compound and the type of oxidative stress generated.
Molecular Characterization of Reactive Oxygen Species in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Zhou Tingyang , Chuang Chia-Chen , Zuo Li
Published: October 2015

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is experienced by individuals suffering from cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart diseases and subsequently undergoing reperfusion treatments in order to manage the conditions. The occlusion of blood flow to the tissue, termed ischemia, can be especially detrimental to the heart due to its high energy demand. Several cellular alterations have been observed upon the onset of ischemia. The danger created by cardiac ischemia is somewhat paradoxical in that a return of blood to the tissue can result in further damage. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been studied intensively to reveal their role in myocardial I/R injury. Under normal conditions, ROS function as a mediator in many cell signaling pathways. However, stressful environments significantly induce the generation of ROS which causes the level to exceed body’s antioxidant defense system. Such altered redox homeostasis is implicated in myocardial I/R injury. Despite the detrimental effects from ROS, low levels of ROS have been shown to exert a protective effect in the ischemic preconditioning. In this review, we will summarize the detrimental role of ROS in myocardial I/R injury, the protective mechanism induced by ROS, and potential treatments for ROS-related myocardial injury.
H∞Fault Detection for Linear Discrete Time-Varying Descriptor Systems with Missing Measurements
Authors: Deng Guangfu , Zhao Huihong
Published: October 2015

This paper deals with the problem ofH∞fault detection for a class of linear discrete time-varying descriptor systems with missing measurements, and the missing measurements are described by a Bernoulli random binary switching sequence. We first translate theH∞fault detection problem into an indefinite quadratic form problem. Then, a sufficient and necessary condition on the existence of the minimum is derived. Finally, an observer-basedH∞fault detection filter is obtained such that the minimum is positive and its parameter matrices are calculated recursively by solving a matrix differential equation. A numerical example is given to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method.
The Potential Role of Th9 Cell Related Cytokine and Transcription Factors in Patients with Hepatic Alveolar Echinococcosis
Authors: Tuxun Tuerhongjiang , Apaer Shadike , Ma Hai-Zhang , Zhang Heng , Aierken Amina , Lin Ren-Yong , Wen Hao
Published: October 2015

Human alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a lethal parasitic infectious disease which may lead to liver failure if left untreated. It is caused by the larval stage of the fox tapewormEchinococcus multilocularisand usually develops a substantial infiltrative occupation in solid organs. During the infection, T helper subsets are known to play crucial role in crosstalk between the parasite and human host. Th9 cells, a new member of CD4+T cell family which is characterized by its specific cytokine IL-9 and transcription factors PU.1 and IRF-4, have been known recently to have a critical role in allergic diseases, and cancers as well as the parasitic infection. To assess the potential role of Th9 cells during the infection, the mRNA levels of IL-9, PU.1, and IRF-4 both in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and in liver tissues were, respectively, detected by using real-time PCR. The plasma concentration levels of IL-9 were detected by using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Th9 related cytokine IL-9 and transcription factors PU.1 and IRF-4 mRNA levels elevated both in PBMCs, and in hepatic lesion and paralesion tissues in AE patients. This may facilitate the infiltrative growth of the parasite and its persistence in human host.
Analytic Solutions of a Second-Order Functional Differential Equation with a State Derivative Dependent Delay
Authors: Somsuwan Jiraphorn , Nakprasit Keaitsuda Maneeruk
Published: October 2015

We investigate an analytic solution of the second-order differential equation with a state derivative dependent delay of the formx″(z)=x(p(z)+bx′(z)). Considering a convergent power seriesg(z)of an auxiliary equationγ2g″(γz)g′(z)=[g(γ2z)-p(g(γz))]γg′(γz)(g′(z))2+p′′(g(z))(g′(z))3+γg′(γz)g″(z)with the relationp(z)+bx′(z)=g(γg-1(z)), we obtain an analytic solutionx(z). Furthermore, we characterize a polynomial solution whenp(z)is a polynomial.
The Trapezoidal Rule for Computing Cauchy Principal Value Integral on Circle
Authors: Li Jin
Published: October 2015

The composite trapezoidal rule for the computation of Cauchy principal value integral with the singular kernelcot((x-s)/2)is discussed. Our study is based on the investigation of the pointwise superconvergence phenomenon; that is, when the singular point coincides with some a priori known point, the convergence rate of the trapezoidal rule is higher than what is globally possible. We show that the superconvergence rate of the composite trapezoidal rule occurs at middle of each subinterval and obtain the corresponding superconvergence error estimate. Some numerical examples are provided to validate the theoretical analysis.
Magnetic Solid Phase Extraction Applied to Food Analysis
Authors: Ibarra Israel S. , Rodriguez Jose A. , Galán-Vidal Carlos A. , Cepeda Alberto , Miranda Jose M.
Published: October 2015

Magnetic solid phase extraction has been used as pretreatment technique for the analysis of several compounds because of its advantages when it is compared with classic methods. This methodology is based on the use of magnetic solids as adsorbents for preconcentration of different analytes from complex matrices. Magnetic solid phase extraction minimizes the use of additional steps such as precipitation, centrifugation, and filtration which decreases the manipulation of the sample. In this review, we describe the main procedures used for synthesis, characterization, and application of this pretreatment technique which were applied in food analysis.
Computational Analysis for Morphological Evolution in Pyrolysis for Micro/Nanofabrication
Authors: Yang Myeongseok , Lee Wooju , Shin Heungjoo , Kim Dongchoul
Published: October 2015

Pyrolysis is recently proposed as an efficient fabrication technique of micro/nanoscale carbon structures. In order to understand the morphological evolution in pyrolysis and design the final shape of carbon structure, this study proposes a comprehensive model that incorporates the essential mechanisms of pyrolysis based on the phase field framework. Computational analysis with the developed model provides information about the effect of interface energy and kinetic rate on the morphological evolution in pyrolysis.
Comparison of Different Strategies for Selection/Adaptation of Mixed Microbial Cultures Able to Ferment Crude Glycerol Derived from Second-Generation Biodiesel
Authors: Varrone C. , Heggeset T. M. B. , Le S. B. , Haugen T. , Markussen S. , Skiadas I. V. , Gavala H. N.
Published: October 2015

Objective of this study was the selection and adaptation of mixed microbial cultures (MMCs), able to ferment crude glycerol generated from animal fat-based biodiesel and produce building-blocks and green chemicals. Various adaptation strategies have been investigated for the enrichment of suitable and stable MMC, trying to overcome inhibition problems and enhance substrate degradation efficiency, as well as generation of soluble fermentation products. Repeated transfers in small batches and fed-batch conditions have been applied, comparing the use of different inoculum, growth media, and Kinetic Control. The adaptation of activated sludge inoculum was performed successfully and continued unhindered for several months. The best results showed a substrate degradation efficiency of almost 100% (about 10 g/L glycerol in 21 h) and different dominant metabolic products were obtained, depending on the selection strategy (mainly 1,3-propanediol, ethanol, or butyrate). On the other hand, anaerobic sludge exhibited inactivation after a few transfers. To circumvent this problem, fed-batch mode was used as an alternative adaptation strategy, which led to effective substrate degradation and high 1,3-propanediol and butyrate production. Changes in microbial composition were monitored by means of Next Generation Sequencing, revealing a dominance of glycerol consuming species, such asClostridium,Klebsiella, andEscherichia.