bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation on Embedding Strength Perpendicular to Grain of Parallel Strand Bamboo
Authors: Zhou Junwen , Huang Dongsheng , Song Yang , Ni Chun
Published: May 2018

Parallel strand bamboo (PSB) is a latest construction material; to know more about mechanical properties of PSB, 5 groups of specimens with difference only in bolt diameter were designed to study the impact of the fastener diameter on embedding strength perpendicular to grain of PSB. Based on the tested result, the feasibility for PSB of the theoretical equation in the American code and European code on embedding strength predication was assessed. A controlled displacement was used to load till specimen failure, the stress‐displacement curve of all specimens was obtained in terms of the tested results, and the yielding tested strength based on 5% bolt diameter offset proposed by the American code was found. The tested results showed that the yielding strength perpendicular to grain of PSB was stable, the variable coefficient was between 5.88% and 13.34%, and the average yielding strength values were 80.84 MPa, 77.40 MPa, 76.52 MPa, 74.20 MPa, and 67.01 MPa, respectively, which decreased with the increase of bolt diameter, and the average yielding strength values are larger than the calculated results using theoretical formula. Therefore, the theoretical equation on embedding yielding strength of wood in the American code and European code applies to PSB.
A Novel UDT‐Based Transfer Speed‐Up Protocol for Fog Computing
Authors: Han Zhijie , Fan Weibei , Li Jie , Xu Miaoxin
Published: May 2018

Fog computing is a distributed computing model as the middle layer between the cloud data center and the IoT device/sensor. It provides computing, network, and storage devices so that cloud based services can be closer to IOT devices and sensors. Cloud computing requires a lot of bandwidth, and the bandwidth of the wireless network is limited. In contrast, the amount of bandwidth required for “fog computing” is much less. In this paper, we improved a new protocol Peer Assistant UDT‐Based Data Transfer Protocol (PaUDT), applied to Iot‐Cloud computing. Furthermore, we compared the efficiency of the congestion control algorithm of UDT with the Adobe’s Secure Real‐Time Media Flow Protocol (RTMFP), based on UDP completely at the transport layer. At last, we built an evaluation model of UDT in RTT and bit error ratio which describes the performance. The theoretical analysis and experiment result have shown that UDT has good performance in IoT‐Cloud computing.
In Vivo Study on Analgesic, Muscle-Relaxant, Sedative Activity of Extracts of Hypochaeris radicata and In Silico Evaluation of Certain Compounds Present in This Species
Authors: Abu-Izneid Tareq , Rauf Abdur , Shah Syed Uzair Ali , Wadood Abdul , Abdelhady Mohamed I. S. , Nathalie Priymenko , Céline Domange , Mansour Nashwa , Patel Seema
Published: May 2018

Background. Hypochaeris radicata (flatweed) from the family Asteraceae is a medicinal plant found in Europe, Middle East, and India. In folkloric medication, it is used to heal jaundice, dyspepsia, constipation, rheumatism, and hypoglycemia as well as renal problems. Leaves and roots of the plant have antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The plant is a rich source of pharmacologically active phytochemicals; however, it is explored scantily. The objective of the current study was to identify the chemical composition and investigate the in vivo biological potency of crude extracts of this plant. Methods. The crude extract and the fractions were screened for various phytochemical groups of constituents following standard procedures. The acute toxicity was assayed for safe range of dose determination. The analgesic potential of the extract and fractions was assessed by acetic acid-induced writhing test. The muscle-relaxant activity was examined by standard inclined-plane test and traction test. Sedative potential of extract/fractions was assessed by using standard white wood procedures. Furthermore, docking analysis of two compounds present in the ethyl acetate fraction of the plant was assessed against 3D cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 (COX-1 and COX-2). Results. The extract/fractions of H. radicata showed significant analgesic effect in in vivo model of peripheral algesia. The docking analysis of previously isolated molecules from the plant also exhibited promising interaction with COX-1 and COX-2. Also, the plant has a mild sedative and muscle-relaxant potential. Thus, our study provided pharmacological rationale for the traditional uses of the plant as analgesic and anti-inflammatory remedy. Conclusion. The crude extracts and fractions exhibited excellent activity due to active phytochemicals. These active phytochemicals also exhibited promising interaction with COX-1 and COX-2. These findings directed researcher to isolate active compounds from H. radicata which may be used as a potential source of active secondary metabolites.
On (L,M)-Double Fuzzy Filter Spaces
Authors: Abd El-Latif A. A. , Aygün H. , Çetkin V.
Published: May 2018

We give in this paper the definitions of (L,M)-double fuzzy filter base and (L,M)-double fuzzy filter structures where L and M are strictly two-sided commutative quantales, and we also investigate the relations between them. Moreover, we propose second-order image and preimage operators of (L,M)-double fuzzy filter base and study some of its fundamental properties. Finally, we handle the given structures in the categorical aspect. For instance, we show that the category (L,M)-DFIL of (L,M)-double fuzzy filter spaces and filter maps between these spaces is a topological category over the category SET.
Recent Advances in Distributed Acoustic Sensing Based on Phase-Sensitive Optical Time Domain Reflectometry
Authors: Muanenda Yonas
Published: May 2018

Distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) using coherent Rayleigh backscattering in an optical fiber has become a ubiquitous technique for monitoring multiple dynamic events in real time. It has continued to constitute a steadily increasing share of the fiber-optic sensor market, thanks to its interesting applications in many safety, security, and integrity monitoring systems. In this contribution, an overview of the recent advances of research in DAS based on phase-sensitive optical time domain reflectometry (ϕ-OTDR) is provided. Some advanced techniques used to enhance the performance of ϕ-OTDR sensors for measuring backscattering intensity changes through reduction of measurement noise are presented, in addition to methods used to increase the dynamic measurement capacity of ϕ-OTDR schemes beyond conventional limits set by the sensing distance. Recent ϕ-OTDR configurations which significantly enhance the measurement spatial resolution, including those which decouple it from the probing pulse width, are also discussed. Finally, a review of recent advances in more precise quantitative measurement of an external impact based on frequency shift and phase demodulation methods using simple direct detection ϕ-OTDR schemes is given.
A Case of Medialized Lateral Maxillary Sinus Wall: A Pillar of Support
Authors: Othman I. A. , Hashim N. D. , Nazimi A. J.
Published: May 2018

The number of maxillofacial trauma (MFT) cases attended in the Emergency Department is progressively increasing in trend, owing to the rising statistics of motor-vehicle accidents (MVAs) and urban assaults in addition to occupational-related injuries. Prompt and thorough assessment is important for accurate diagnosis and paramount treatment plans. We will be discussing a case of unusual presentation of an orbital floor fracture post-MVA which was treated conservatively based on the clinical assessments during follow-ups, supported by radiological findings. We will also briefly discuss the different radiological modalities available in assessing MFT and late presentation of enophthalmos.
Sequential Measurements of Pentraxin 3 Serum Levels in Patients with Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia: A Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Bilgin Huseyin , Haliloglu Murat , Yaman Ali , Ay Pinar , Bilgili Beliz , Arslantas Mustafa Kemal , Ture Ozdemir Filiz , Haklar Goncagul , Cinel Ismail , Mulazimoglu Lutfiye
Published: May 2018

Purpose. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the dynamics of pentraxin 3 (PTX3) compared with procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in patients with suspicion of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Materials and Methods. We designed a nested case-control study. This study was performed in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit of a tertiary care academic university and teaching hospital. Ninety-one adults who were mechanically ventilated for >48 hours were enrolled in the study. VAP diagnosis was established among 28 patients following the 2005 ATS/IDSA guidelines. Results. The median PTX3 plasma level was 2.66 ng/mL in VAP adults compared to 0.25 ng/mL in non-VAP adults (p<0.05). Procalcitonin and CRP levels did not significantly differ. Pentraxin 3, with a 2.56 ng/mL breakpoint, had 85% sensitivity, 86% specificity, 75% positive predictive value, and 92.9% negative predictive value for VAP diagnosis (AUC = 0.78). Conclusions. With the suspicion of VAP, a pentraxin 3 plasma breakpoint of 2.56 ng/mL could contribute to the decision of whether to start antibiotics.
Development of Data Fusion Method Based on Topological Relationships Using IndoorGML Core Module
Authors: Park Junho , Ahn Dasol , Lee Jiyeong
Published: May 2018

Geospatial datasets are currently constructed, managed, and utilized individually according to the spatial scale of the real world, such as the ground/surface/underground or indoor/outdoor, as well the particular purpose of the geospatial data used for location-based services. In addition, LBS applications use an optimal data model and data format according to their particular purpose, and thus, various datasets exist to represent the same spatial features. Such duplicated geospatial datasets and geographical feature-based GIS data cause serious problems in the financial area, compatibility issues among LBS systems, and data integration problems among the various geospatial datasets generated independently for different systems. We propose a geospatial data fusion model called the topological relation-based data fusion model (TRDFM) using topological relations among spatial objects in order to integrate different geospatial datasets and different data formats. The proposed model is a geospatial data fusion model implemented in a spatial information application and is used to directly provide spatial information-based services without data conversion or exchange of geometric data generated by different data models. The proposed method was developed based on an extension of the AnchorNode concept of IndoorGML. The topological relationships among spatial objects are defined and described based upon the basic concept of IndoorGML. This paper describes the concept of the proposed TRDFM and shows an experimental implementation of the proposed data fusion model using commercial 3D GIS software. Finally, the limitations of this study and areas of future research are summarized.
Effects of Polylactide Copolymer Implants and Platelet-Rich Plasma on Bone Regeneration within a Large Calvarial Defect in Sheep
Authors: Błaszczyk Bartłomiej , Kaspera Wojciech , Ficek Krzysztof , Kajor Maciej , Binkowski Marcin , Stodolak-Zych Ewa , Grajoszek Aniela , Stojko Jerzy , Bursig Henryk , Ładziński Piotr
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to verify whether L-lactide/DL-lactide copolymer 80/20 (PLDLLA) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) trigger bone formation within critical-sized calvarial defects in adult sheep (n=6). Two craniectomies, each ca. 3 cm in diameter, were created in each animal. The first craniectomy was protected with an inner polylactide membrane, filled with PRP-polylactide granules, and covered with outer polylactide membrane. The second control craniectomy was left untreated. The animals were euthanized at 6, 7, 17, 19, 33, and 34 weeks after surgery, and the quality and the rate of reossification were assessed histomorphometrically and microtomographically. The study demonstrated that application of implants made of PLDLLA 80/20 combined with an osteopromotive substance (e.g., PRP) may promote bone healing in large calvarial defect in sheep. These promising proof-of-concept studies need to be verified in the future on a larger cohort of animals and over a longer period of time in order to draw definitive conclusions.
The Perceived Social Stigma of People with Epilepsy with regard to the Question of Employability
Authors: de Souza Jéssica Lopes , Faiola Aline Scardoeli , Miziara Carmen Silvia Molleis Galego , de Manreza Maria Luiza Giraldes
Published: May 2018

Objective. To evaluate the perceived social stigma of people with epilepsy with regard to the question of employability. Methods. A structured questionnaire was given to two groups of people with chronic diseases: those with epilepsy (study group) and those with heart disease (control group). The questions concerned employability. Results. Having epilepsy was more strongly associated with higher unemployment rates (p<0.0001); job layoffs (p=0.001); being unfit to work (p<0.0001); feeling shame for having the disease (p=0.014); absence of partners (p=0.026); and depression (p=0.004). The tendency to hide their disease from their employers was similar for the two groups. Conclusion. The age discrepancy between groups was an important limiting factor of this study. However, despite the limited number of participants and the age difference between the groups, there is no impediment in stating that people with epilepsy show high rates of unemployment, depression, and stigma.
Electromyographic Analysis of Masticatory Muscles in Cleft Lip and Palate Children with Pain-Related Temporomandibular Disorders
Authors: Szyszka-Sommerfeld Liliana , Matthews-Brzozowska Teresa , Kawala Beata , Mikulewicz Marcin , Machoy Monika , Więckiewicz Włodzimierz , Woźniak Krzysztof
Published: May 2018

Aim. The aim of this study was to assess the electrical activity of temporalis and masseter muscles in children with cleft lip and palate (CLP) and pain-related temporomandibular disorders (TMD-P). Methods. The sample consisted of 31 CLP patients with a TMD-P (mean age 9.5 ± 1.8 years) and 32 CLP subjects with no TMD (mean age 9.2 ± 1.7 years). The children were assessed for the presence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) using Axis I of the Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (RDC/TMD). Electromyographical (EMG) recordings were performed using a DAB-Bluetooth Instrument (Zebris Medical GmbH, Germany) in the mandibular rest position and during maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Results. The rest activity of the temporalis and masseter muscles was significantly higher in TMD-P group compared with non-TMD children. A significant decrease in temporalis muscle activity during MVC was observed in TMD-P patients. There was a significant increase in the Asymmetry Index for temporalis and masseter muscle rest activity in the TMD-P group. Conclusion. Cleft children diagnosed with TMD-P have altered masticatory muscle activity, and this can affect their muscle function.
Allocation of Distributed Energy Systems at District-Scale over Wide Areas for Sustainable Urban Planning with a MILP Model
Authors: Ok Yeşim , Atak Mehmet
Published: May 2018

An optimal allocation of centralized district-scale distributed energy resource (DER) systems with district heating and cooling network (DHCN) is studied. A generic mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model is constructed to increase the system efficiency and decrease costs by reducing energy distribution losses and transportation costs in energy distribution network. Initial investment costs based on size and type (co/trigeneration) of the facility and demand-weighted transportation costs are minimized by the capacitated fixed charge facility location (FCFL) model. However, unlike the standard FCFL model, by adding the maximum coverage distance in the set covering problem, a new method has been proposed. Thus, its aim is to avoid assigning a demand point to a candidate facility from a point farther than the predetermined distance. That means that the weakness of disregarding the distance between supply and demand points in the FCFL problem is eliminated. Additionally, this model, in which the annual inputs are used, has a generic framework suitable to form infrastructure needs in consideration of distributed energy systems in the general planning level for sustainable urban planning. For this purpose, the applications of the model, both case study and tests, have been made over wide areas, with annual demand and capacity values. Consequently, a case study with different coverage distances has been conducted to see the effect of coverage distance on the model, and also test problems with different sizes have been carried out to demonstrate the capability of the proposed model.
Hunter Syndrome Diagnosed by Otorhinolaryngologist
Authors: Hashimoto Ayako , Kumagai Tadayuki , Mineta Hiroyuki
Published: May 2018

Hunter syndrome is a lysosomal disease characterized by deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme iduronate-2-sulfatase (I2S). It has an estimated incidence of approximately 1 in 1,62,000 live male births. We report a case of Hunter syndrome diagnosed by an otorhinolaryngologist. To our knowledge, this is the first study diagnosed by an otorhinolaryngologist despite the fact that otorhinolaryngological symptoms manifest at a young age in this disease. The patient was a 4-year-old boy. He underwent adenotonsillectomy. Intubation was difficult, and he had some symptoms which are reasonable as a mucopolysaccharidosis. The otorhinolaryngologist should play an integral role in the multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and management of many children with MPS (mucopolysaccharidoses) disorders.
Mechanical Behavior and Damage Evolution for Granite Subjected to Cyclic Loading
Authors: Wang Zhiliang , Yao Jikang , Tian Nuocheng , Zheng Jingbin , Gao Peng
Published: May 2018

This paper focuses on the mechanical behavior and damage evolution of Huashan granite subjected to cyclic loading. Four levels of confining pressure (0, 15, 25, and 35 MPa) were applied during cyclic axial loading by using a Rock Test System (MTS815) along with an acoustic emission (AE) monitoring device. Experimental results indicate that the number of AE activities is higher under cyclic triaxial loading compared to that under cyclic uniaxial loading. The measured stress‐strain curves of both uniaxial and triaxial tests under cyclic loading are concave‐up, but the degree of concavity is mild for the latter. As the cycle number rises, elastic modulus of the granite sample under different confining pressures increases. The slope of the peak strength versus confining pressure plot for the cyclic loading is larger than that for the monotonic loading. Besides, it is found that the dissipated energy increases with the increase of cyclic stress, but it hardly increases in proportion with the confining pressure. The damage parameters defined in terms of the plastic strain can be extended for the whole cyclic loading process, and they agree well with the energy‐based damage parameters.
Mindfulness Meditation Targets Transdiagnostic Symptoms Implicated in Stress‐Related Disorders: Understanding Relationships between Changes in Mindfulness, Sleep Quality, and Physical Symptoms
Authors: Greeson Jeffrey M. , Zarrin Haley , Smoski Moria J. , Brantley Jeffrey G. , Lynch Thomas R. , Webber Daniel M. , Hall Martica H. , Suarez Edward C. , Wolever Ruth Q.
Published: May 2018

Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an 8‐week meditation program known to improve anxiety, depression, and psychological well‐being. Other health‐related effects, such as sleep quality, are less well established, as are the psychological processes associated with therapeutic change. This prospective, observational study (n = 213) aimed to determine whether perseverative cognition, indicated by rumination and intrusive thoughts, and emotion regulation, measured by avoidance, thought suppression, emotion suppression, and cognitive reappraisal, partly accounted for the hypothesized relationship between changes in mindfulness and two health‐related outcomes: sleep quality and stress‐related physical symptoms. As expected, increased mindfulness following the MBSR program was directly correlated with decreased sleep disturbance (r = −0.21, p = 0.004) and decreased stress‐related physical symptoms (r = −0.38, p < 0.001). Partial correlations revealed that pre‐post changes in rumination, unwanted intrusive thoughts, thought suppression, experiential avoidance, emotion suppression, and cognitive reappraisal each uniquely accounted for up to 32% of the correlation between the change in mindfulness and change in sleep disturbance and up to 30% of the correlation between the change in mindfulness and change in stress‐related physical symptoms. Results suggest that the stress‐reducing effects of MBSR are due, in part, to improvements in perseverative cognition and emotion regulation, two “transdiagnostic” mental processes that cut across stress‐related disorders.
In Vivo Release of Vancomycin from Calcium Phosphate Cement
Authors: Uchida Kentaro , Sugo Ken , Nakajima Takehiko , Nakawaki Mitsufumi , Takano Shotaro , Nagura Naoshige , Takaso Masashi , Urabe Ken
Published: May 2018

Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) has good release efficiency and has therefore been used as a drug delivery system for postoperative infection. The release profile of CPC has mainly been evaluated by in vitro studies, which are carried out by immersing test specimens in a relatively large amount of solvent. However, it remains unclear whether antibiotic-impregnated CPC has sufficient clinical effects and release in vivo. We examined the in vivo release profile of CPC impregnated with vancomycin (VCM) and compared this with that of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement. To evaluate the release profile in vitro, the test specimens were immersed in 10 mL sterile phosphate-buffered saline per gram of test specimen and incubated at 37°C for 56 days in triplicate. For in vivo experiments, the test specimens were implanted between the fascia and muscle of the femur of rats. Residual VCM was extracted from the removed test specimens to determine the amount of VCM released into rat tissues. CPC released more VCM over a longer duration than PMMA in vitro. Released levels of VCM from CPC/VCM in vivo were 3.4-fold, 5.0-fold, and 8.6-fold greater on days 1, 7, and 28, respectively, than those released on the corresponding days from PMMA/VCM and were drastically greater on day 56 due to inefficient release from PMMA/VCM. The amount of VCM released from CPC and PMMA was much higher than the minimum inhibitory concentration (1.56 μg) and lower than the detection limit, respectively. Our findings suggest that CPC is a suitable material for releasing antibiotics for local action against established postoperative infection.
Symmetries, Dynamics, and Control for the 2D Kolmogorov Flow
Authors: Smaoui Nejib
Published: May 2018

The symmetries, dynamics, and control problem of the two‐dimensional (2D) Kolmogorov flow are addressed. The 2D Kolmogorov flow is known as the 2D Navier‐Stokes (N‐S) equations with periodic boundary conditions and with a sinusoidal external force along the x‐direction. First, using the Fourier Galerkin method on the original 2D Navier‐Stokes equations, we obtain a seventh‐order system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) which approximates the behavior of the Kolmogorov flow. The dynamics and symmetries of the reduced seventh‐order ODE system are analyzed through computer simulations for the Reynolds number range 0 < Re < 26.41. Extensive numerical simulations show that the obtained system is able to display the different behaviors of the Kolmogorov flow. Then, we design Lyapunov based controllers to control the dynamics of the system of ODEs to different attractors (e.g., a fixed point, a periodic orbit, or a chaotic attractor). Finally, numerical simulations are undertaken to validate the theoretical developments.
Antioxidant Activities of Extracts from Sarcocarp of Cotoneaster multiflorus
Authors: Liu Xiangping , Jia Jia , Jing Xuemin , Li Guoliang
Published: May 2018

The ethanol-water (7 : 3, v/v) extract of Cotoneaster multiflorus sarcocarp was sequentially fractionated by liquid-liquid partition using n-hexane, diethyl ether, methylene dichloride, and ethyl acetate. The contents of total polyphenols, total flavones, and oligomeric proanthocyanidins in the five parts (including the ethanol-water extract) were determined. In addition, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical-scavenging, 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt radical cation decolorization, reducing power, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and lipid peroxidation inhibition assays were conducted to test the antioxidant activities of Sample 1 (the ethanol-water fraction) and Sample 2 (the ethyl acetate fraction) in vitro. In the above five assays, Sample 2 showed greater antioxidant capacities than Sample 1. Furthermore, Sample 2 was better able to protect low-density lipoproteins from oxidation in a dose-dependent manner. The test results show that C. multiflorus sarcocarp, especially the ethyl acetate-soluble fraction, may be a potential source of natural antioxidants.
Evaluation of Lipid Profile in Patients with Cherry Angioma: A Case-Control Study in Guilan, Iran
Authors: Darjani Abbas , Rafiei Rana , Shafaei Sareh , Rafiei Elahe , Eftekhari Hojat , Alizade Narges , Gharaei nejad Kaveh , Rafiee Behnam , Najirad Sara
Published: May 2018

Background. Cherry angioma is the most common type of acquired cutaneous vascular proliferation which would increase with aging due to some angiogenic factors but the exact pathogenesis is unknown. Usually angiogenic factors are synthesized in human body to compensate occlusive effects of atherogenic agents such as serum lipids. Our hypothesis was that increased levels of these angiogenic factors could be a trigger for development of cherry angioma. This study has been designed to compare frequency of dyslipidemia in subjects with and without cutaneous cherry angioma. Methods. In this case-control study, 122 cases with cherry angioma and 122 control subjects without cherry angioma were enrolled. Demographic characteristics, number of the cherry angioma lesions, and serum lipid profile were collected for all subjects. The data was analyzed using SPSS 18 software. Results. Mean levels of the total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein were higher in patients with cherry angioma compared to control subjects in which differences were significant for total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and triglyceride (P<0.05) but not for high-density lipoprotein level. Conclusion. Serum lipids may have a role in producing angiogenic factors and development of cherry angioma and it seems logical to evaluate lipid profile in these cases.
A Review on Biomechanics of Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Materials for Reconstruction
Authors: Marieswaran M. , Jain Ishita , Garg Bhavuk , Sharma Vijay , Kalyanasundaram Dinesh
Published: May 2018

The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the six ligaments in the human knee joint that provides stability during articulations. It is relatively prone to acute and chronic injuries as compared to other ligaments. Repair and self-healing of an injured anterior cruciate ligament are time-consuming processes. For personnel resuming an active sports life, surgical repair or replacement is essential. Untreated anterior cruciate ligament tear results frequently in osteoarthritis. Therefore, understanding of the biomechanics of injury and properties of the native ligament is crucial. An abridged summary of the prominent literature with a focus on key topics on kinematics and kinetics of the knee joint and various loads acting on the anterior cruciate ligament as a function of flexion angle is presented here with an emphasis on the gaps. Briefly, we also review mechanical characterization composition and anatomy of the anterior cruciate ligament as well as graft materials used for replacement/reconstruction surgeries. The key conclusions of this review are as follows: (a) the highest shear forces on the anterior cruciate ligament occur during hyperextension/low flexion angles of the knee joint; (b) the characterization of the anterior cruciate ligament at variable strain rates is critical to model a viscoelastic behavior; however, studies on human anterior cruciate ligament on variable strain rates are yet to be reported; (c) a significant disparity on maximum stress/strain pattern of the anterior cruciate ligament was observed in the earlier works; (d) nearly all synthetic grafts have been recalled from the market; and (e) bridge-enhanced repair developed by Murray is a promising technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, currently in clinical trials. It is important to note that full extension of the knee is not feasible in the case of most animals and hence the loading pattern of human ACL is different from animal models. Many of the published reviews on the ACL focus largely on animal ACL than human ACL. Further, this review article summarizes the issues with autografts and synthetic grafts used so far. Autografts (patellar tendon and hamstring tendon) remains the gold standard as nearly all synthetic grafts introduced for clinical use have been withdrawn from the market. The mechanical strength during the ligamentization of autografts is also highlighted in this work.
Event-Based Formation Control of Multiple Quadrotors on SO(3)
Authors: Dong Chaoyang , Ma Mingyu , Wang Qing , Ma Siqian
Published: May 2018

This paper is concerned with the formation problem of multiple quadrotors, and an event-based control strategy is proposed. The communication topology and relative positions of formation are first considered, and then the model of multiple quadrotors system is developed on the special orthogonal group SO(3). By designing the trigger function, certain events are generated for each quadrotor. Then, the formation controller is driven to update its parameters according to the events. The attitude controller on SO(3) is designed for tracking of the command and stabilization. By the proposed method continuous communication is not required between quadrotors, and it is proved that the quadrotors could achieve the desired formation. Simulation illustrates that the proposed event-based formation control method is effective.
Glass Forming Ability, Thermal Stability, and Magnetic Properties of FeCoNiBSi Alloys with Different B Contents
Authors: Sun Haibo , Wang Yongfei
Published: May 2018

The dependence on the glass forming ability, magnetic property, and thermal stability of the (Fe0.39Co0.15Ni0.46)82−xB12+xSi6 (x = 0, 2, 4, and 6) alloys was investigated. The results show that the as‐quenched alloy ribbons exhibit a completely amorphous structure with B content in the range of 12∼18 at.%. The initial crystallization onset temperature of the as‐quenched ribbon increases with the increase of B content. When the B content is up to 14 at.%, the temperature interval between the two crystallization peaks will sharply reduce, which narrows the effective annealing range that is detrimental to improving the soft magnetic properties. Both of the Ms and Hc of the as‐quenched ribbons increase first and then decrease with the increase of B content. Here, the maximum Ms of 0.90 T and low Hc of 10.2 A/m can be obtained at the B content of 14 at.%. Additionally, the (Fe0.39Co0.15Ni0.46)80B14Si6 alloy exhibits the minimum Hc of 5.9 A/m and Ms of 0.934 T at the proposed annealing temperature of 698 K for 10 min in the vacuum condition.
Different Solution Strategies for Solving Epidemic Model in Imprecise Environment
Authors: Mahata Animesh , Mondal Sankar Prasad , Ahmadian Ali , Ismail Fudiah , Alam Shariful , Salahshour Soheil
Published: May 2018

We study the different solution strategy for solving epidemic model in different imprecise environment, that is, a Susceptible‐Infected‐Susceptible (SIS) model in imprecise environment. The imprecise parameter is also taken as fuzzy and interval environment. Three different solution procedures for solving governing fuzzy differential equation, that is, fuzzy differential inclusion method, extension principle method, and fuzzy derivative approaches, are considered. The interval differential equation is also solved. The numerical results are discussed for all approaches in different imprecise environment.
Preparation and Characterization of High Purity Anhydrous β-Lactose from α-Lactose Monohydrate at Mild Temperature
Authors: López-Pablos Ana L. , Leyva-Porras César C. , Silva-Cázares Macrina B. , Longoria-Rodríguez Francisco E. , Pérez-García Sergio A. , Vértiz-Hernández Ángel A. , Saavedra-Leos María Z.
Published: May 2018

Lactose is a disaccharide of importance in humans dietary, food products, and the pharmaceutical industry. From the existing isomeric forms, β-lactose is rarely found in nature. Thus, in this work, a simple methodology to obtain anhydrous β-lactose (βL) from α-lactose monohydrate (αL·H2O) is presented. The αL·H2O powder was dispersed into a basic alcoholic solution (72 hours), at controlled conditions of temperature (27, 29, 31, and 32°C), without stirring. The slurry was dried at room temperature and characterized. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed the formation of βL for the samples prepared at 29 and 32°C. Raman spectroscopy confirmed this result and suggested the occurrence of crystalline βL. Rietveld refinement of the X-ray diffraction patterns was employed to identify and quantify the composition of the isomers. The samples prepared at 29 and 31°C showed the formation of pure βL, while those at 27 and 32°C showed the presence of αL·H2O and a mixture of the two isomers, respectively. The morphology of the powders was studied by scanning electron microscopy, observing the formation of irregular shape αL·H2O particles and axe-like βL particles. Clearly, with this methodology, it was possible to obtain pure, crystalline, and anhydrous βL at mild temperature.
Kuwait Recommendations on Vaccine Use in People with Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: AlEnizi Ahmad , AlSaeid Khaled , Alawadhi Adel , Hasan Eiman , Husain Entesar H. , AlFadhli Ahmad , Ghanem Aqeel , Abutiban Fatemah , Ali Yaser , Al-Herz Adeeba , Mohammed Khuloud , Alkandari Waleed , Aldei Ali , Alhajeri Hebah , Dehrab Ahmad , Hayat Sawsan
Published: May 2018

People with IRD are at increased risk of infection, and in 2011 EULAR made general recommendations for vaccination in these patients. Global and European perspectives are important, but they cannot accurately reflect the individual situations of patients in different countries and regions. Based on our clinical experience and opinions, we have sought to tailor the original EULAR recommendations to include advice for vaccination with new agents approved in the intervening years—including the new class of targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. We have also considered the specific demographic needs of patients in local populations in the Gulf region. The resulting 16 recommendations are grouped into four main categories covering general vaccination guidelines and best-practice for all patients with IRD, followed by a set of recommended vaccines against specific pathogens. The last two categories include recommendations for certain patient subgroups with defined risks and for patients who wish to travel.
The Role of Semipurified Fractions Isolated from Quercus infectoria on Bone Metabolism by Using hFOB 1.19 Human Fetal Osteoblast Cell Model
Authors: Abdullah Amira Raudhah , Hapidin Hermizi , Abdullah Hasmah
Published: May 2018

Background. Quercus infectoria (QI) is a plant used in traditional medicines in Asia. The plant was reported to contain various active phytochemical compounds that have potential to stimulate bone formation. However, the precise mechanism of the stimulation effect of QI on osteoblast has not been elucidated. The present study was carried out to isolate QI semipurified fractions from aqueous QI extract and to delineate the molecular mechanism of QI semipurified fraction that enhanced bone formation by using hFOB1.19 human fetal osteoblast cell model. Methods. Isolation of QI semipurified fractions was established by means of column chromatography and thin layer chromatography. Established QI semipurified fractions were identified using Liquid Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry (LC‐MS). Cells were treated with derived QI semipurified fractions and investigated for mineralization deposition and protein expression level of BMP‐2, Runx2, and OPN by ELISA followed gene expression analysis of BMP‐2 and Runx2 by RT‐PCR. Results. Column chromatography isolation and purification yield Fractions A, B, and C. LC‐MS analysis reveals the presence of polyphenols in each fraction. Results show that QI semipurified fractions increased the activity and upregulated the gene expression of BMP‐2 and Runx2 at day 1, day 3, and day 7. OPN activity increased in cells treated with QI semipurified fractions at day 1 and day 3. Meanwhile, at day 7, expression of OPN decreased in activity. Furthermore, the study showed that combination of Fractions A, B, and C with osteoporotic drug (pamidronate) further increased the activity and upregulated the gene expression of BMP‐2 and Runx2. Conclusions. These findings demonstrated that polyphenols from semipurified fractions of QI enhanced bone formation through expression of the investigated bone‐related marker that is its potential role when combined with readily available osteoporotic drug.
A New Approach towards Minimizing the Risk of Misdosing Warfarin Initiation Doses
Authors: Sharabiani Ashkan , Nutescu Edith A. , Galanter William L. , Darabi Houshang
Published: May 2018

It is a challenge to be able to prescribe the optimal initial dose of warfarin. There have been many studies focused on an efficient strategy to determine the optimal initial dose. Numerous clinical, genetic, and environmental factors affect the warfarin dose response. In practice, it is common that the initial warfarin dose is substantially different from the stable maintenance dose, which may increase the risk of bleeding or thrombosis prior to achieving the stable maintenance dose. In order to minimize the risk of misdosing, despite popular warfarin dose prediction models in the literature which create dose predictions solely based on patients’ attributes, we have taken physicians’ opinions towards the initial dose into consideration. The initial doses selected by clinicians, along with other standard clinical factors, are used to determine an estimate of the difference between the initial dose and estimated maintenance dose using shrinkage methods. The selected shrinkage method was LASSO (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator). The estimated maintenance dose was more accurate than the original initial dose, the dose predicted by a linear model without involving the clinicians initial dose, and the values predicted by the most commonly used model in the literature, the Gage clinical model.
Static Aeroelastic Modeling and Rapid Analysis of Wings in Transonic Flow
Authors: Yang Jingyuan , Liu Yilang , Zhang Weiwei
Published: May 2018

A fast static aeroelastic analysis method, coupling with the modal method and Kriging surrogate model, is proposed in this paper. The deflection of the wing is described by the modal method, and the Kriging surrogate model is utilized to model the generalized forces under different deformations, angles of attack, and Mach numbers in order to replace the CFD solver. We analyzed the static aeroelasticity of HIRENASD wing in transonic flow field by coupling with the generalized force model by the static equilibrium equation. The results were compared with those of the experimental data and the references, and the comparison shows that the method is useful for the small deflections. After enough training cases are finished, the high-accuracy aerodynamic force coefficients and wing deflection will be obtained rapidly, which will only take several seconds. This method is more time saving than the CFD/CSD method, when it comes to a large quantity of the static aeroelastic analyses. Hence, it has good perspective for engineering applications during the aircraft design period.
Injectable Nanocurcumin-Formulated Chitosan-g-Pluronic Hydrogel Exhibiting a Great Potential for Burn Treatment
Authors: Dang Le Hang , Nguyen Thi Hiep , Tran Ha Le Bao , Doan Vu Nguyen , Tran Ngoc Quyen
Published: May 2018

Burn wound healing is a complex multifactorial process that relies on coordinated signaling molecules to succeed. Curcumin is believed to be a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent; therefore, it can prevent the prolonged presence of oxygen free radicals which is a significant factor causing inhabitation of optimum healing process. This study describes an extension of study about the biofunctional nanocomposite hydrogel platform that was prepared by using curcumin and an amphiphilic chitosan-g-pluronic copolymer specialized in burn wound healing application. This formular (nCur-CP, nanocomposite hydrogel) was a free-flowing sol at ambient temperature and instantly converted into a nonflowing gel at body temperature. In addition, the storage study determined the great stability level of nCur-CP in long time using UV-Vis and DLS. Morphology and distribution of nCur in its nanocomposite hydrogels were observed by SEM and TEM, respectively. In vitro studies suggested that nCur-CP exhibited well fibroblast proliferation and ability in antimicrobacteria. Furthermore, second- and third-degree burn wound models were employed to evaluate the in vivo wound healing activity of the nCur-CP. In the second-degree wound model, the nanocomposite hydrogel group showed a higher regenerated collagen density and thicker epidermis layer formation. In third degree, the nCur-CP group also exhibited enhancement of wound closure. Besides, in both models, the nanocomposite material-treated groups showed higher collagen content, better granulation, and higher wound maturity. Histopathologic examination also implied that the nanocomposite hydrogel based on nanocurcumin and chitosan could enhance burn wound repair. In conclusion, the biocompatible and injectable nanocomposite scaffold might have great potential to apply for wound healing.
The Flavonoid Jaceosidin from Artemisia princeps Induces Apoptotic Cell Death and Inhibits the Akt Pathway in Oral Cancer Cells
Authors: Han Hye-Yeon , Kim Hyung Joon , Jeong Seung-Hwa , Kim Jiyeon , Jeong Sung-Hee , Kim Gyoo Cheon , Hwang Dae-Seok , Kim Uk-Kyu , Ryu Mi Heon
Published: May 2018

Jaceosidin is a single compound from the Japanese mugwort Artemisia princeps, which is used as a food and a traditional medicinal herb. A. princeps extracts and flavonoid components have been shown to have antihyperglycaemic, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory properties. Although the anticancer properties of these extracts were recently demonstrated, the related mechanisms have not been characterised. In this study, we investigated the effects of jaceosidin in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells and initially showed selective suppression of proliferation (IC50 = 82.1 μM in HSC‐3 cells and 97.5 μM in Ca9.22 cells) and accumulation of cells at the sub‐G1 stage of the cell cycle. In addition, jaceosidin increased cleavage of caspase‐9 and caspase‐3 in OSCC cells, although caspase‐8 was not detected. In further experiments, jaceosidin downregulated Akt phosphorylation and ectopic activation of Akt blocked the antiproliferative effects of jaceosidin. Finally, we showed that jaceosidin has no effects on HaCaT normal epithelial cell viability, indicating selective chemotherapeutic potential of jaceosidin and that tumour‐specific downregulation of Akt increases apoptosis and inhibits growth in OSCC cells.
Passivity‐Based Control for Rocket Launcher Position Servo System Based on ADRC Optimized by IPSO‐BP Algorithm
Authors: Wang Rong-lin , Lu Bao-chun , Hou Yuan-long , Gao Qiang
Published: May 2018

In order to achieve better motion accuracy and higher robustness of the shipborne rocket launcher position servo system driven by a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), a passivity‐based controller based on active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) optimized by improved particle swarm optimization‐back propagation (IPSO‐BP) algorithm is proposed in this paper. The convenient method of interconnection and damping assignment and passivity‐based control (IDA‐PBC) is adopted to establish the port controlled Hamiltonian system with dissipation (PCHD) model of PMSM. To further enhance the robustness and adaptability of traditional ADRC, an BP algorithm is introduced to on‐line update the proportional, integral, and derivative gains of ADRC. Furthermore, to improve the learning capability, the improved PSO algorithm is adopted to optimize the learning rates of the back propagation neural networks. The results of numerical simulation and prototype test indicate that the proposed IPSO‐BP‐ADRC‐PBC controller has better static and dynamic performance than the ADRC‐PBC and BP‐ADRC‐PBC controller with fixed learning rate.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Beliefs of Communities and Health Staff about Echinococcus granulosus Infection in Selected Pastoral and Agropastoral Regions of Uganda
Authors: Othieno Emmanuel , Ocaido Michael , Mupere Ezekiel , Omadang Leonard , Oba Peter , Okwi Andrew Livex
Published: May 2018

A descriptive cross-sectional survey was done to determine knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of the communities and health workers about cystic echinococcosis (CE) in pastoral region of Northeastern (NE) and agropastoral regions of Eastern (E) and Central (C) Uganda. Overall a total of 1310 participants were interviewed. Community respondents from NE region were more aware of CE infection than those from Eastern (OR 4.85; CI: 3.60–6.60; p<0.001) and Central (OR 5.73; CI: 4.22–7.82; p<0.001) regions. 19.8% of the respondents from EA region had positive attitude towards visiting witch doctors for treatment compared with 62.0% and 60.4% from NE and Central regions, respectively (p<0.001). Notably, the awareness of CE increased with level of education (p<0.001). There was no statistical difference between male and female respondents as far as awareness of CE was concerned (p>0.05). 51.7% of the community respondents from Central believed CE is caused by witchcraft, compared with 31.3% and 14.3% from NE and EA regions, respectively (p<0.001). There was no statistical difference between health staff regarding their knowledge, attitude, and beliefs about CE infection (p>0.05). None of the participants knew his/her CE status. The communities need to be sensitized about CE detection, control, and management and health staff need to be trained on CE diagnosis.
Laboratory Tests on Effectiveness of Environment-Friendly Organic Polymer on Physical Properties of Sand
Authors: Liu Jin , Song Zezhuo , Bai Yuxia , Chen Zhihao , Wei Jihong , Wang Ying , Qian Wei
Published: May 2018

The poor water stability, high penetrability, and low antierosion of sand affect the stability of the sandy soil slope. To understand the effectiveness of environment-friendly organic polymer on these physical properties of sand, a series of laboratory tests including water stability test, penetration test, and runoff erosion test of polymer reinforced sand were performed. The results of tests indicated that the organic polymers have obvious effects on the reinforced sand. The water stability of polymer reinforced sand had been improved strongly. All the reinforced sands with polymer ≥0.3% remained a stable structure at immersing time of 24 hours. The penetrability of the reinforced sand decreased with the increase of the polymer. The reinforced sand with polymer ≥7% was impermeable. The erosion resistance of sand increased with the increase of polymer content. With the polymer ≥4%, the sand surface kept intact with the scouring time more than 2 hours. The results could be applied as the reference for organic polymer reinforced sand engineering, especially for surface protection of embankment, slope, and landfill.