bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Cross Plane Thermal Transport of Polycrystalline Molybdenum Nanofilms by Applying Picosecond Laser Transient Thermoreflectance Method
Authors: Miao Tingting , Ma Weigang , Zhang Xing , Kubo Keisuke , Kohno Masamichi , Takata Yasuyuki , Ikuta Tatsuya , Takahashi Koji
Published: June 2014

Thin metal films are widely used as interconnecting wires and coatings in electronic devices and optical components. Reliable thermophysical properties of the films are required from the viewpoint of thermal management. The cross plane thermal transport of four polycrystalline molybdenum nanofilms with different thickness deposited on glass substrates has been studied by applying the picosecond laser transient thermoreflectance technique. The measurement is performed by applying both front pump‐front probe and rear pump‐front probe configurations with high quality signal. The determined cross plane thermal diffusivity of the Mo films greatly decreases compared to the corresponding bulk value and tends to increase as films become thicker, exhibiting significant size effect. The main mechanism responsible for the thermal diffusivity decrease of the present polycrystalline Mo nanofilms is the grain boundary scattering on the free electrons. Comparing the cross plane thermal diffusivity and inplane electrical conductivity indicates the anisotropy of the transport properties of the Mo films.
Correlation between TMD and Cervical Spine Pain and Mobility: Is the Whole Body Balance TMJ Related?
Authors: Walczyńska-Dragon Karolina , Baron Stefan , Nitecka-Buchta Aleksandra , Tkacz Ewaryst
Published: June 2014

Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is considered to be associated with imbalance of the whole body. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of TMD therapy on cervical spine range of movement (ROM) and reduction of spinal pain. The study group consisted of 60 patients with TMD, cervical spine pain, and limited cervical spine range of movements. Subjects were interviewed by a questionnaire about symptoms of TMD and neck pain and had also masticatory motor system physically examined (according to RDC-TMD) and analysed by JMA ultrasound device. The cervical spine motion was analysed using an MCS device. Subjects were randomly admitted to two groups, treated and control. Patients from the treated group were treated with an occlusal splint. Patients from control group were ordered to self-control parafunctional habits. Subsequent examinations were planned in both groups 3 weeks and 3 months after treatment was introduced. The results of tests performed 3 months after the beginning of occlusal splint therapy showed a significant improvement in TMJ function(P>0.05), cervical spine ROM, and a reduction of spinal pain. The conclusion is that there is a significant association between TMD treatment and reduction of cervical spine pain, as far as improvement of cervical spine mobility.
The Effect of Applying 2D Enhancement Algorithms on 3D Video Content
Authors: Wu Sin Lin , Caviedes Jorge E. , Karam Lina , Heynderickx Ingrid
Published: June 2014

Enhancement algorithms are typically applied to video content to increase their appeal to viewers. Such algorithms are readily available in the literature and are already widely applied in, for example, commercially available TVs. On the contrary, not much research has been done on enhancing stereoscopic 3D video content. In this paper, we present research focused on the effect of applying enhancement algorithms used for 2D content on 3D side-by-side content. We evaluate both offline enhancement of video content based on proprietary enhancement algorithms and real-time enhancement in the TVs. This is done using stereoscopic TVs with active shutter glasses, viewed both in their 2D and 3D viewing mode. The results of this research show that 2D enhancement algorithms are a viable first approach to enhance 3D content. In addition to video quality degradation due to the loss of spatial resolution as a consequence of the 3D video format, brightness reduction inherent to polarized or shutter glasses similarly degrades video quality. We illustrate the benefit of providing brightness enhancement for stereoscopic displays.
A Weighted Regularity Lemma with Applications
Authors: Csaba Béla , Pluhár András
Published: June 2014

We prove an extension of the regularity lemma with vertex and edge weights which in principle can be applied for arbitrary graphs. The applications involve random graphs and a weighted version of the Erdős-Stone theorem. We also provide means to handle the otherwise uncontrolled exceptional set.
Minimally Invasive Microendoscopic Resection of the Transverse Process for Treatment of Low Back Pain with Bertolotti’s Syndrome
Authors: Takata Yoichiro , Sakai Toshinori , Higashino Kosaku , Goda Yuichiro , Mineta Kazuaki , Sugiura Kosuke , Sairyo Koichi
Published: June 2014

Bertolotti’s syndrome is characterized by anomalous enlargement of the transverse process of the most caudal lumbar segment, causing chronic and persistent low back pain or sciatica. We describe the case of a 45-year-old woman who presented with left sciatic pain and low back pain due to a recurrent lumbar disc herniation at L4-5 with Bertolotti’s syndrome. Selective L5 nerve root block and local injection of lidocaine into the articulation between the transverse process and sacral ala temporarily relieved the left sciatic pain and low back pain, respectively. To confirm the effect of local injection on low back pain, we gave a second local injection, which once again relieved the low back pain. Microendoscopic resection of the pseudoarticulation region and discectomy successfully relieved all symptoms. This report illustrates the effectiveness of minimally invasive resection of the transverse process for the treatment of low back pain with Bertolotti’s syndrome.
Atomic Decomposition of Weighted Lorentz Spaces and Operators
Authors: Kwessi Eddy , de Souza Geraldo , Ngwane Fidele , Abebe Asheber
Published: June 2014

We obtain an atomic decomposition of weighted Lorentz spaces for a class of weights satisfying the Δ2condition. Consequently, we study operators such as the multiplication and composition operators and also provide Hölder’s-type and duality-Riesz type inequalities on these weighted Lorentz spaces.
A Dynamic Optimization Strategy for the Operation of Large Scale Seawater Reverses Osmosis System
Authors: Jiang Aipeng , Wang Jian , Cheng Wen , Xing Changxin , Jiangzhou Shu
Published: June 2014

In this work, an efficient strategy was proposed for efficient solution of the dynamic model of SWRO system. Since the dynamic model is formulated by a set of differential‐algebraic equations, simultaneous strategies based on collocations on finite element were used to transform the DAOP into large scale nonlinear programming problem named Opt2. Then, simulation of RO process and storage tanks was carried element by element and step by step with fixed control variables. All the obtained values of these variables then were used as the initial value for the optimal solution of SWRO system. Finally, in order to accelerate the computing efficiency and at the same time to keep enough accuracy for the solution of Opt2, a simple but efficient finite element refinement rule was used to reduce the scale of Opt2. The proposed strategy was applied to a large scale SWRO system with 8 RO plants and 4 storage tanks as case study. Computing result shows that the proposed strategy is quite effective for optimal operation of the large scale SWRO system; the optimal problem can be successfully solved within decades of iterations and several minutes when load and other operating parameters fluctuate.
How Neuroscience Relates to Hearing Aid Amplification
Authors: Tremblay K. L. , Miller C. W.
Published: June 2014

Hearing aids are used to improve sound audibility for people with hearing loss, but the ability to make use of the amplified signal, especially in the presence of competing noise, can vary across people. Here we review how neuroscientists, clinicians, and engineers are using various types of physiological information to improve the design and use of hearing aids.
IgG4-Related Tubulointerstitial Nephritis Associated with Membranous Nephropathy in Two Patients: Remission after Administering a Combination of Steroid and Mizoribine
Authors: Miyata Kana N. , Kihira Hiromi , Haneda Manabu , Nishio Yasuhide
Published: June 2014

We report two cases of Japanese men who presented with proteinuria, eosinophilia, hypocomplementemia, and high serum immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) concentration and were diagnosed with membranous nephropathy associated with IgG4-related tubulointerstitial nephritis on renal biopsy. The typical renal lesions of IgG4-related disease are tubulointerstitial nephritis, which improves remarkably with steroid therapy, and occasional glomerular changes. In our two cases, renal biopsy revealed IgG4-positive immune complex deposits in glomeruli in a pattern of membranous nephropathy and concurrent tubulointerstitial nephritis with IgG4 plasma cells. In both cases, proteinuria persisted with initial prednisolone treatment and was resolved only after the addition of mizoribine. We report the first two cases in which the combination of prednisolone and mizoribine was effective for treating membranous nephropathy associated with IgG4-related tubulointerstitial nephritis.
Variational Statement and Domain Decomposition Algorithms for Bitsadze-Samarskii Nonlocal Boundary Value Problem for Poisson’s Two-Dimensional Equation
Authors: Jangveladze Temur , Kiguradze Zurab , Lobjanidze George
Published: June 2014

The Bitsadze-Samarskii nonlocal boundary value problem is considered. Variational formulation is done. The domain decomposition and Schwarz-type iterative methods are used. The parallel algorithm as well as sequential ones is investigated.
Complex Variant of Philadelphia Translocation Involving Chromosomes 9, 12, and 22 in a Case with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia
Authors: Malvestiti F. , Agrati C. , Chinetti S. , Di Meco A. , Cirrincione S. , Oggionni M. , Grimi B. , Maggi F. , Simoni G. , Grati F. R.
Published: June 2014

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a hematopoietic stem cell disorder included in the broader diagnostic category of myeloproliferative neoplasms, associated with fusion by BCR gene at chromosome 22q11 to ABL1 gene at chromosome 9q34 with the formation of the Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome. In 2–10% of CML cases, the fusion gene arises in connection with a variant translocation, involving chromosomes 9, 22, and one or more different chromosomes; consequently, the Ph chromosome could be masked within a complex chromosome rearrangement. In cases with variant Ph translocation a deletion on der(9) may be more frequently observed than in cases with the classical one. Herein we describe a novel case of CML with complex variant Ph translocation involving chromosomes 9, 12, and 22. We present the hematologic response and cytogenetic response after Imatinib treatment. We also speculated the mechanism which had originated the chromosome rearrangement.
Evaluating the Linguistic Appropriateness and Cultural Sensitivity of a Self-Report System for Spanish-Speaking Patients with Cancer
Authors: Tofthagen Cindy , Halpenny Barbara , Melendez Maribel , Gonzalez Laura , Sanchez Varela Veronica , Negrón Rosalyn , Berry Donna L.
Published: June 2014

Spanish speakers in the United States encounter numerous communication barriers during cancer treatment. Communication-focused interventions may help Spanish speakers communicate better with healthcare providers and manage symptoms and quality of life issues (SQOL). For this study, we developed a Spanish version of the electronic self-report assessment for cancer (ESRA-C), a web-based program that helps people with cancer report, track, and manage cancer-related SQOL. Four methods were used to evaluate the Spanish version. Focus groups and cognitive interviews were conducted with 51 Spanish-speaking individuals to elicit feedback. Readability was assessed using the Fry readability formula. The cultural sensitivity assessment tool was applied by three bilingual, bicultural reviewers. Revisions were made to personalize the introduction using a patient story and photos and to simplify language. Focus group participants endorsed changes to the program in a second round of focus groups. Cultural sensitivity of the program was scored unacceptable (x¯=3.0) for audiovisual material and acceptable (x¯=3.0) for written material. Fry reading levels ranged from 4th to 10th grade. Findings from this study provide several next steps to refine ESRA-C for Spanish speakers with cancer.
An Existence Theorem for Fractional Hybrid Differential Inclusions of Hadamard Type with Dirichlet Boundary Conditions
Authors: Ahmad Bashir , Ntouyas Sotiris K.
Published: June 2014

This paper studies the existence of solutions for a boundary value problem of nonlinear fractional hybrid differential inclusions by using a fixed point theorem due to Dhage (2006). The main result is illustrated with the aid of an example.
Cellular Scanning Strategy for Selective Laser Melting: Capturing Thermal Trends with a Low‐Fidelity, Pseudo‐Analytical Model
Authors: Mohanty Sankhya , Hattel Jesper
Published: June 2014

Simulations of additive manufacturing processes are known to be computationally expensive. The resulting large runtimes prohibit their application in secondary analysis requiring several complete simulations such as optimization studies, and sensitivity analysis. In this paper, a low‐fidelity pseudo‐analytical model has been introduced to enable such secondary analysis. The model has been able to mimic a finite element model and was able to capture the thermal trends associated with the process. The model has been validated and subsequently applied in a small optimization case study. The pseudo‐analytical modelling technique is established as a fast tool for primary modelling investigations.
A Rat Model of Thrombosis in Common Carotid Artery Induced by Implantable Wireless Light-Emitting Diode Device
Authors: Yeh Jih-Chao , Huang Kuo-Lun , Hsiao Yung-Chin , Hsu Yu-Han , Lin Yun-Han , Lou Shyh-Liang , Lee Tsong-Hai
Published: June 2014

This work has developed a novel approach to form common carotid artery (CCA) thrombus in rats with a wireless implantable light-emitting diode (LED) device. The device mainly consists of an external controller and an internal LED assembly. The controller was responsible for wirelessly transmitting electrical power. The internal LED assembly served as an implant to receive the power and irradiate light on CCA. The thrombus formation was identified with animal sonography, 7T magnetic resonance imaging, and histopathologic examination. The present study showed that a LED assembly implanted on the outer surface of CCA could induce acute occlusion with single irradiation with 6 mW/cm2LED for 4 h. If intermittent irradiation with 4.3–4.5 mW/cm2LED for 2 h was shut off for 30 min, then irradiation for another 2 h was applied; the thrombus was observed to grow gradually and was totally occluded at 7 days. Compared with the contralateral CCA without LED irradiation, the arterial endothelium in the LED-irradiated artery was discontinued. Our study has shown that, by adjusting the duration of irradiation and the power intensity of LED, it is possible to produce acute occlusion and progressive thrombosis, which can be used as an animal model for antithrombotic drug development.
New Sufficient Conditions for Hamiltonian Paths
Authors: Rahman M. Sohel , Kaykobad M. , Firoz Jesun Sahariar
Published: June 2014

A Hamiltonian path in a graph is a path involving all the vertices of the graph. In this paper, we revisit the famous Hamiltonian path problem and present new sufficient conditions for the existence of a Hamiltonian path in a graph.
Research on Third-Party Collecting Game Model with Competition in Closed-Loop Supply Chain Based on Complex Systems Theory
Authors: Ma Junhai , Guo Yuehong
Published: June 2014

This paper studied system dynamics characteristics of closed-loop supply chain using repeated game theory and complex system theory. It established decentralized decision-making game model and centralized decision-making game model and then established and analyzed the corresponding continuity system. Drew the region local stability of Nash equilibrium and Stackelberg equilibrium, and a series of chaotic system characteristics, have an detail analysis of the Lyapunov index which is under the condition of different parameter combination. According to the limited rational expectations theory, it established repeated game model based on collection price and marginal profits. Further, this paper analyzed the influence of the parameters by numerical simulations and concluded three conclusions. First, when the collection price is to a critical value, the system will be into chaos state. Second, when the sale price of remanufacturing products is more than a critical value, the system will be in chaos state. Last, the initial value of the collection price is sensitive, small changes may cause fluctuations of market price. These conclusions guide enterprises in making the best decisions in each phase to achieve maximize profits.
Optimal Battery Sizing in Photovoltaic Based Distributed Generation Using Enhanced Opposition-Based Firefly Algorithm for Voltage Rise Mitigation
Authors: Wong Ling Ai , Shareef Hussain , Mohamed Azah , Ibrahim Ahmad Asrul
Published: June 2014

This paper presents the application of enhanced opposition-based firefly algorithm in obtaining the optimal battery energy storage systems (BESS) sizing in photovoltaic generation integrated radial distribution network in order to mitigate the voltage rise problem. Initially, the performance of the original firefly algorithm is enhanced by utilizing the opposition-based learning and introducing inertia weight. After evaluating the performance of the enhanced opposition-based firefly algorithm (EOFA) with fifteen benchmark functions, it is then adopted to determine the optimal size for BESS. Two optimization processes are conducted where the first optimization aims to obtain the optimal battery output power on hourly basis and the second optimization aims to obtain the optimal BESS capacity by considering the state of charge constraint of BESS. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by applying the algorithm to the 69-bus distribution system and by comparing the performance of EOFA with conventional firefly algorithm and gravitational search algorithm. Results show that EOFA has the best performance comparatively in terms of mitigating the voltage rise problem.
Ultrasound Image Enhancement Using Structure-Based Filtering
Authors: Ueng Shyh-Kuang , Yen Cho-Li , Chen Guan-Zhi
Published: June 2014

Ultrasound images are prone to speckle noises. Speckles blur features which are essential for diagnosis and assessment. Thus despeckling is a necessity in ultrasound image processing. Linear filters can suppress speckles, but they smooth out features. Median filter based despeckling algorithms produce better results. However, they may produce artifact patterns in the resulted images and oversmooth nonuniform regions. This paper presents an innovative despeckle procedure for ultrasound images. In the proposed method, the diffusion tensor of intensity is computed at each pixel at first. Then the eigensystem of the diffusion tensor is calculated and employed to detect and classify the underlying structure. Based on the classification result, a feasible filter is selected to suppress speckles and enhance features. Test results show that the proposed despeckle method reduces speckles in uniform areas and enhances tissue boundaries and spots.
Remarks on the Spin-One Duffin-Kemmer-Petiau Equation in the Presence of Nonminimal Vector Interactions in(3+1)Dimensions
Authors: Castro L. B. , de Oliveira L. P.
Published: June 2014

We point out a misleading treatment in the recent literature regarding analytical solutions for nonminimal vector interaction for spin-one particles in the context of the Duffin-Kemmer-Petiau (DKP) formalism. In those papers, the authors use improperly the nonminimal vector interaction endangering in their main conclusions. We present a few properties of the nonminimal vector interactions and also present the correct equations to this problem. We show that the solution can be easily found by solving Schrödinger-like equations. As an application of this procedure, we consider spin-one particles in presence of a nonminimal vector linear potential.
Performance of InGaN Light-Emitting Diodes Fabricated on Patterned Sapphire Substrates with Modified Top-Tip Cone Shapes
Authors: Hsueh Hsu-Hung , Ou Sin-Liang , Cheng Chiao-Yang , Wuu Dong-Sing , Horng Ray-Hua
Published: June 2014

InGaN light-emitting diodes (LEDs) were fabricated on cone-shaped patterned sapphire substrates (PSSs) by using low-pressure metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. To enhance the crystal quality of the GaN epilayer and the optoelectronic performance of the LED device, the top-tip cone shapes of the PSSs were further modified using wet etching. Through the wet etching treatment, some dry-etched induced damage on the substrate surface formed in the PSS fabrication process can be removed to achieve a high epilayer quality. In comparison to the LEDs prepared on the conventional sapphire substrate (CSS) and cone-shaped PSS without wet etching, the LED grown on the cone-shaped PSS by performing wet etching for 3 min exhibited 55% and 10% improvements in the light output power (at 350 mA), respectively. This implies that the modification of cone-shaped PSSs possesses high potential for LED applications.
Automating Risk Analysis of Software Design Models
Authors: Frydman Maxime , Ruiz Guifré , Heymann Elisa , César Eduardo , Miller Barton P.
Published: June 2014

The growth of the internet and networked systems has exposed software to an increased amount of security threats. One of the responses from software developers to these threats is the introduction of security activities in the software development lifecycle. This paper describes an approach to reduce the need for costly human expertise to perform risk analysis in software, which is common in secure development methodologies, by automating threat modeling. Reducing the dependency on security experts aims at reducing the cost of secure development by allowing non-security-aware developers to apply secure development with little to no additional cost, making secure development more accessible. To automate threat modeling two data structures are introduced, identification trees and mitigation trees, to identify threats in software designs and advise mitigation techniques, while taking into account specification requirements and cost concerns. These are the components of our model for automated threat modeling, AutSEC. We validated AutSEC by implementing it in a tool based on data flow diagrams, from the Microsoft security development methodology, and applying it to VOMS, a grid middleware component, to evaluate our model's performance.
Insight into HIV of IFN-Induced Myxovirus Resistance 2 (MX2) Expressed by Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Hung Tzu-Chieh , Lee Wen-Yuan , Chen Kuen-Bao , Chan Yueh-Chiu , Chen Calvin Yu-Chian
Published: June 2014

Recently, an important topic of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) had been published in 2013. In this report, the expression of the IFN-induced myxovirus resistance 2 (MX2) had been defined the function to kill the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The screening from the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) database by simulating molecular docking and molecular dynamics could select candidate compounds, which may express MX2 against HIV. Saussureamine C, Crotalaburnine, and Precatorine are selected based on the highest docking score and other TCM compounds. The data from molecular dynamics are helpful in the analysis and detection of protein-ligand interactions. According to the docking poses, hydrophobic interactions, and hydrogen bond with structure variations, this research could assess the interaction between protein and ligand interaction. In addition to the detection of TCM compound efficacy, we suggest that Saussureamine C is better than the others in protein-ligand interaction and the structural variation to express MX2.
Wireless Monitoring of Household Electrical Power Meter Using Embedded RFID with Wireless Sensor Network Platform
Authors: Boonsong Wasana , Ismail Widad
Published: June 2014

Tracking and monitoring system using radio frequency identification (RFID) have gained a lot of improvements especially for applications that need automation with reduction in human intervention and become more interesting nowadays with the increasing market demand for internet of things (IoT) technologies. The objective of this study is to improve the machine-to-machine (M2M) communication using active RFID with wireless sensor networks (WSNs) with heterogeneous data transfer (regardless of power meter type) for monitoring and identification of household electrical consumption. M2M is a popular technology and has become a part of our daily life. WSN through ZigBee technology is applied to monitor data and to read the load consumption from the electrical household power meter by embedding a tag module into the meter. In-house built-in tag was embedded into an electrical power meter with a power management circuit communicating to a reader at an RF signal of 2.45 GHz based on the star network topology with the sleep mode function. The experimental results indicated that the electrical power meters with embedded tags successfully worked wirelessly with acceptable mean value of electrical consumption difference in Watts more than those without tags (standalone meter), which is in the range of 2.44 W to 2.5 W based on 10-hour measurements.
Gradually Increased Training Intensity Benefits Rehabilitation Outcome after Stroke by BDNF Upregulation and Stress Suppression
Authors: Sun Jing , Ke Zheng , Yip Shea Ping , Hu Xiao-ling , Zheng Xiao-xiang , Tong Kai-yu
Published: June 2014

Physical training is necessary for effective rehabilitation in the early poststroke period. Animal studies commonly use fixed training intensity throughout rehabilitation and without adapting it to the animals' recovered motor ability. This study investigated the correlation between training intensity and rehabilitation efficacy by using a focal ischemic stroke rat model. Eighty male Sprague-Dawley rats were induced with middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion surgery. Sixty rats with successful stroke were then randomly assigned into four groups: control (CG,n=15), low intensity (LG,n=15), gradually increased intensity (GIG,n=15), and high intensity (HG,n=15). Behavioral tests were conducted daily to evaluate motor function recovery. Stress level and neural recovery were evaluated via plasma corticosterone and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentration, respectively. GIG rats significantly (P<0.05) recovered motor function and produced higher hippocampal BDNF (112.87 ± 25.18 ng/g). GIG and LG rats exhibited similar stress levels (540.63 ± 117.40 nM/L and 508.07 ± 161.30 nM/L, resp.), which were significantly lower (P<0.05) than that (716.90 ± 156.48 nM/L) of HG rats. Training with gradually increased intensity achieved better recovery with lower stress. Our observations indicate that a training protocol that includes gradually increasing training intensity should be considered in both animal and clinical studies for better stroke recovery.
Paraxial Ocular Measurements and Entries in Spectral and Modal Matrices: Analogy and Application
Authors: Abelman Herven , Abelman Shirley
Published: June 2014

Lensometers and keratometers yield powers along perpendicular meridians even if the principal meridians of the lens and the cornea are oblique. From each such instrument, multiple raw data represented on optical crosses require conversion to determine elementary statistics. Calculations for research decisions need to be authentic. Principles common to meridians generalize formulaic methods for oblique meridians. Like a lens or a cornea, matrix latent quantities are represented on a matrix cross. Our problem is to determine the matrix whose cross represents quantities on the optical cross. All measurements on an optical cross that include corneal and lens powers and oblique meridians can be considered. Once determined, a portfolio of matrix calculations applies and is justified for ophthalmic calculation. Matrices can be unique and, like a cornea before it is measured, contain latent observations. Asymmetric power component matrices quantify a deviation of a corneal surface from smoothness and toricity. Entries may identify those measurements causing irregular astigmatism that may stem from surgical or other external intervention. Irregular astigmatism is detected primarily from significant measurements in the paraxial range. Measurements are assimilated with matrix factors in a holistic way in order to support choices with calculations and statistics.
Feasibility Study on Flexibly Reconfigurable Roll Forming Process for Sheet Metal and Its Implementation
Authors: Yoon Jun-Seok , Kim Jeong , Kim Hyeong-Ho , Kang Beom-Soo
Published: June 2014

A multicurved sheet metal surface for a skin structure has usually been manufactured using a conventional die forming process involving the use of both a die and a press machine in accordance with the product shape. However, such processes are economically inefficient because additional production costs are incurred for the development and management of forming tools. To overcome this drawback, many alternative processes have been developed; however, these still suffer from problems due to defects such as dimples and wrinkles occurring in the sheet. In this study, a new sheet metal forming process called the flexibly reconfigurable roll forming (FRRF) process is proposed as an alternative to existing processes. Unlike existing processes, FRRF can reduce additional production costs resulting from material loss and significantly reduce forming errors. Furthermore, it involves the use of a smaller apparatus. The methodology and applicable procedure of the FRRF process are described. Numerical forming simulations of representative multicurved sheet surfaces are conducted using FEM. In addition, a simple apparatus is developed for verifying the feasibility of this process, and a doubly curved metal is formed to verify the applicability of the reconfigurable roller, a critical component in this forming process.
Forecasting the Production Abilities of Recycling Systems: A DEA Based Research
Authors: Yang Feng , Du Fei , Liang Liang , Yang Zheng
Published: June 2014

Network production systems are widely observed in the current real life, and the performance management of network production systems has been widely studied. The previous literatures have contributed to the performance evaluation to parallel, serial, and converging systems. However, few literatures have considered the recycling systems. The current paper proposes a method on how to forecast the actual and frontier production abilities of recycling systems. Based on the forecasting results, the paper uses a DEA (data envelopment analysis) based method to appraise the operational efficiency of recycling systems. We choose the water utilization and recycling system as a background for our research. According to the proposed method, Chinese provincial water utilization and recycling systems are examined and analyzed. The results show that the reuse level of water in China is still very low.
Intraperitoneal Oxidative Stress in Rabbits with Papillomavirus-Associated Head and Neck Cancer Induces Tumoricidal Immune Response That Is Adoptively Transferable
Authors: Rossmann Annette , Mandic Robert , Heinis Jochen , Höffken Helmut , Küssner Oliver , Kinscherf Ralf , Weihe Eberhard , Bette Michael
Published: June 2014

Purpose: How tumors evade or suppress immune surveillance is a key question in cancer research, and overcoming immune escape is a major goal for lengthening remission after cancer treatment. Here, we used the papillomavirus-associated rabbit auricular VX2 carcinoma, a model for studying human head and neck cancer, to reveal the mechanisms underlying the antitumorigenic effects of intraperitoneal oxidative stress following O3/O2-pneumoperitoneum (O3/O2-PP) treatment.

Experimental Design: Solid auricular VX2 tumors were induced in immune-competent adult New Zealand White Rabbits. Animals were O3/O2-PP- or sham-treated, after which they underwent tumor ablation upon reaching no-go criteria. CD3+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) were evaluated by immunohistochemistry, and expression levels of 84 immune response genes were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Adoptive transfer of peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL)—derived from animals with tumor regression—into control animals with progressing tumors was implemented to assess acquired tumor resistance functionally.

Results: Auricular VX2 tumors regressing after O3/O2-PP treatment exhibited increased levels of CD3+ TILs; they also exhibited enhanced expression of genes that encode receptors involved in pattern recognition, molecules that are required for antigen presentation and T cell activation, and inflammatory mediators. Adoptive cell transfer of PBLs from donor rabbits with regressing tumors to recipient rabbits with newly implanted VX2 carcinoma resulted in acquired tumor resistance of the host and tumor regression.

Conclusion: Intraperitoneal oxidative stress effectively converts the immune response against the papillomavirus-associated rabbit VX2 carcinoma from tumor permissive to tumoricidal and leads to a sustainable, adoptively transferable oncolytic immune response. Clin Cancer Res; 20(16); 4289–301. ©2014 AACR.
Snail Cooperates with KrasG12D In Vivo to Increase Stem Cell Factor and Enhance Mast Cell Infiltration
Authors: Knab Lawrence M. , Ebine Kazumi , Chow Christina R. , Raza Sania S. , Sahai Vaibhav , Patel Akash P. , Kumar Krishan , Bentrem David J. , Grippo Paul J. , Munshi Hidayatullah G.
Published: June 2014

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with a pronounced fibro-inflammatory stromal reaction that contributes to tumor progression. A critical step in invasion and metastasis is the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which can be regulated by the Snail family of transcription factors. Overexpression of Snail (Snai1) and mutant KrasG12D in the pancreas of transgenic mice, using an elastase (EL) promoter, resulted in fibrosis. To identify how Snail modulates inflammation in the pancreas, we examined the effect of expressing Snail in EL-KrasG12D mice (KrasG12D/Snail) on mast cell infiltration, which has been linked to PDAC progression. Using this animal model system, it was demonstrated that there are increased numbers of mast cells in the pancreas of KrasG12D/Snail mice compared with control KrasG12D mice. In addition, it was revealed that human primary PDAC tumors with increased Snail expression are associated with increased mast cell infiltration, and that Snail expression in these clinical specimens positively correlated with the expression of stem cell factor (SCF/KITLG), a cytokine known to regulate mast cell migration. Concomitantly, SCF levels are increased in the KrasG12D/Snail mice than in control mice. Moreover, overexpression of Snail in PDAC cells increased SCF levels, and the media conditioned by Snail-expressing PDAC cells promoted mast cell migration. Finally, inhibition of SCF using a neutralizing antibody significantly attenuated Snail-induced migration of mast cells.

Implications: Together, these results elucidate how the EMT regulator Snail contributes to inflammation associated with PDAC tumors. Mol Cancer Res; 12(10); 1440–8. ©2014 AACR.
Psychosomatic Inpatient Rehabilitation: The German Model
Authors: Linden Michael
Published: June 2014

The term ‘psychosomatic' has many connotations, be it in the sense of a general biopsychosocial concept in medicine as outlined in the ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health) of the World Health Organization, a holistic and person-centered view of the patient beyond the illness, the treatment of somatoform or somatic disorders, or special psychotherapeutic approaches. In Germany, there are also about 25,000 inpatient beds in ‘psychosomatic rehabilitation hospitals', which treat approximately 5/1,000 inhabitants in the working age population per year. These institutions give an example of how to translate the theoretical concepts of psychosomatic medicine and of the ICF into clinical practice. ‘Psychosomatic rehabilitation' aims at the prevention, treatment and compensation of chronic illness by a biopsychosocial approach. This includes a multilevel psychosomatic assessment and a multidimensional treatment focus including the reduction of symptoms, the training of capacities, the coping with chronic illness and impairment, the restoration of well-being and normal life, and the occupational reintegration including the search for a workplace, which allows work in spite of impairment. Scientific studies have shown that the psychological status, the motivation to work, the number of days on sickness leave and occupational reintegration can be improved, and that the system pays for the patients themselves, but also pension and health insurance companies.
Neural Correlates of Procedural Variants in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: A Randomized, Controlled Multicenter fMRI Study
Authors: Straube Benjamin , Lueken Ulrike , Jansen Andreas , Konrad Carsten , Gloster Andrew T. , Gerlach Alexander L. , Ströhle Andreas , Wittmann André , Pfleiderer Bettina , Gauggel Siegfried , Wittchen Ulrich , Arolt Volker , Kircher Tilo
Published: June 2014

Background: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for panic disorder with agoraphobia (PD/AG). It is unknown, how variants of CBT differentially modulate brain networks involved in PD/AG. This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of therapist-guided (T+) versus self-guided (T-) exposure on the neural correlates of fear conditioning in PD/AG. Method: In a randomized, controlled multicenter clinical trial in medication-free patients with PD/AG who were treated with 12 sessions of manualized CBT, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used during fear conditioning before (t1) and after CBT (t2). Quality-controlled fMRI data from 42 patients and 42 healthy subjects (HS) were obtained. Patients were randomized to two variants of CBT (T+, n = 22, and T-, n = 20). Results: The interaction of diagnosis (PD/AG, HS), treatment group (T+, T-), time point (t1, t2) and stimulus type (conditioned stimulus: yes, no) revealed activation in the left hippocampus and the occipitotemporal cortex. The T+ group demonstrated increased activation of the hippocampus at t2 (t2 > t1), which was positively correlated with treatment outcome, and a decreased connectivity between the left inferior frontal gyrus and the left hippocampus across time (t1 > t2). Conclusion: After T+ exposure, contingency-encoding processes related to the posterior hippocampus are augmented and more decoupled from processes of the left inferior frontal gyrus, previously shown to be dysfunctionally activated in PD/AG. Linking single procedural variants to neural substrates offers the potential to inform about the optimization of targeted psychotherapeutic interventions.
Internet-Based Guided Self-Help versus Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Tinnitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jasper Kristine , Weise Cornelia , Conrad Isabell , Andersson Gerhard , Hiller Wolfgang , Kleinstäuber Maria
Published: June 2014

Background: The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the effects of conventional face-to-face group cognitive behavioral therapy (GCBT) and an Internet-delivered guided self-help treatment (Internet-based CBT, ICBT) on tinnitus distress. Methods: A total of 128 adults with at least mild levels of chronic tinnitus distress were randomly assigned to GCBT (n = 43), ICBT (n = 41), or a web-based discussion forum (DF) that served as a control condition (n = 44). Standardized self-report measures [the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), Mini-Tinnitus Questionnaire (Mini-TQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Insomnia Severity Index and Tinnitus Acceptance Questionnaire] were completed at the pre- and post-assessments and at the 6-month follow-up. Results: Repeated-measures ANOVAs revealed significant time × group interaction effects on the primary outcomes (THI and Mini-TQ scores) in favor of both CBT interventions compared with the DF at post-assessment (0.56 ≤ g ≤ 0.93; all p ≤ 0.001). There were no significant differences between GCBT and ICBT (all p > 0.05) and the treatment effects remained stable at the 6-month follow-up. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that ICBT might be an equally effective alternative to conventional CBT in the management of chronic tinnitus. Despite encouraging results, further research is necessary to determine the actual potential of ICBT as a viable alternative to CBT, and under which circumstances it is effective.
Lifetime Prevalence of Congenital Heart Disease in the General Population From 2000 to 2010
Authors: Marelli Ariane J. , Ionescu-Ittu Raluca , Mackie Andrew S. , Guo Liming , Dendukuri Nandini , Kaouache Mohammed
Published: June 2014

Background—

Our objective was to obtain contemporary lifetime estimates of congenital heart disease (CHD) prevalence using population-based data sources up to year 2010.

Methods and Results—

The Quebec CHD database contains 28 years of longitudinal data on all individuals with CHD from 1983 to 2010. Severe CHD was defined as tetralogy of Fallot, truncus arteriosus, transposition complexes, endocardial cushion defects, and univentricular hearts. We used latent class bayesian models combining case definitions from physician claims, hospitalization, and surgical data to obtain point and interval prevalence estimates of CHD in the first year of life, in children (<18 years of age) and in adults. We identified 107 559 CHD patients from 1983 to 2010. Prevalence of CHD in the first year of life was 8.21 per 1000 live births (95% confidence interval, 7.47–9.02) from 1998 to 2005. In 2010, overall prevalence of CHD was 13.11 per 1000 (95% confidence interval, 12.43–13.81) in children and 6.12 per 1000 (95% confidence interval, 5.69–6.57) in adults. CHD prevalence increased by 11% in children and 57% in adults from 2000 to 2010. Prevalence in the severe CHD subgroup increased by 19% (95% confidence interval, 17%–21%) in children and 55% (51%–62%) in adults. By 2010, adults accounted for 66% of the entire CHD population.

Conclusions—

With an increase of >50% in CHD prevalence since 2000, by 2010 adults accounted for two thirds of patients with severe and other forms of CHD in the general population. Our findings should inform allocation of resources and the planning of workforce needs for the predominantly adult CHD population.
Sex and Age Differences in the Association of Depression With Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease and Adverse Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Shah Amit J. , Ghasemzadeh Nima , Zaragoza‐Macias Elisa , Patel Riyaz , Eapen Danny J. , Neeland Ian J. , Pimple Pratik M. , Zafari A. Maziar , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Vaccarino Viola
Published: June 2014

Background

Young women with coronary heart disease have high rates of depression and a higher risk of adverse events than men of similar age. Whether depression has a higher prognostic value in this group than in men and older women is not known. Our objective was to assess whether depression in young women is associated with higher risk of coronary artery disease (
CAD
) and adverse outcomes compared with similarly aged men and older women.

Methods and Results

We examined 3237 patients undergoing coronary angiography for evaluation of
CAD
and followed them for 2.9 years (median). Depressive symptoms were assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire (
PHQ
)‐9, and
CAD
burden was dichotomized based on its presence or absence. After multivariable adjustment for
CAD
risk factors, depressive symptoms predicted
CAD
presence in women aged ≤55 years (odds ratio=1.07 95% confidence interval [
CI
] 1.02 to 1.13 per 1 point increase in
PHQ
‐9 score), but not in men aged ≤55 years or women aged >55 years. Depressive symptoms also predicted increased risk of death in women aged ≤55 years (adjusted hazard ratio=1.07, 95%
CI
1.02 to 1.14, per 1 point increase in
PHQ
‐9 score), but not in men aged ≤55 years and women aged >55 years, with
P
=0.02 for the depression‐sex interaction and
P
=0.02 for depression‐sex‐age interaction.

Conclusions

Among patients with suspected or established
CAD
, depressive symptoms are associated with increased risk of death, particularly in young women. This group may be especially vulnerable to the adverse cardiovascular effects of depression.
Ephemeroporus quasimodo sp. nov. (Crustacea: Cladocera: Chydoridae), a new species from the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: ELMOOR-LOUREIRO LOURDES M. A.
Published: June 2014

A new species of Chydoridae cladoceran (Crustacea: Cladocera: Chydoridae) is described from the Cerrado (a Brazilian tropical savanna ecoregion), Central Brazil. Ephemeroporus quasimodo sp. nov. differs from other species of the genus in a high dorsal keel on carapace and posterior part of the head shield, which resembles a hunchback. Parthenogenetic females, ephippial females and males are described, including details of trunk limb morphology. The species is endemic to shallow wetlands found in the Cerrado, where pristine conditions are preserved. Some questions on genus morphology and taxonomic status of Ephemeroporus species occurring in Brazil are discussed.
Hydroclimate Variability and Change in the Prairie Pothole Region, the “Duck Factory” of North America*
Authors: Ballard Tristan , Seager Richard , Smerdon Jason E. , Cook Benjamin I. , Ray Andrea J. , Rajagopalan Balaji , Kushnir Yochanan , Nakamura Jennifer , Henderson Naomi
Published: June 2014

The Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) of the northern Great Plains is a vital ecosystem responsible each year for producing 50%–80% of new recruits to the North American duck population. Climate variability and change can impact the hydrology and ecology of the region with implications for waterfowl populations. The historical relationship between PPR wetlands, duck populations, and seasonal hydroclimate are explored. Model experiments from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project are used to determine whether a recent wetting trend is due to natural variability or changing climate and how PPR hydroclimate will change into the future. Year-to-year variations in May duck populations, pond numbers, and the Palmer drought severity index are well correlated over past decades. Pond and duck numbers tend to increase in spring following La Niña events, but the correlation is not strong. Model simulations suggest that the strengthening of the precipitation gradient across the PPR over the past century is predominantly due to natural variability and therefore could reverse. Model projections of future climate indicate precipitation will increase across the PPR in all seasons except summer, but this gain for surface moisture is largely offset by increased evapotranspiration because of higher temperatures and increased atmospheric evaporative demand. In summer, the combined effects of warming and precipitation changes indicate seasonal surface drying in the future. The presented hydroclimate analyses produce potential inputs to ecological and hydrological simulations of PPR wetlands to inform risk analysis of how this North American waterfowl habitat will evolve in the future, providing guidance to land managers facing conservation decisions.