bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Derivative Sampling From Image Blur for Reconstruction of Band-Limited Signals
Authors: Tani Jacopo , Mishra Sandipan , Wen John T.
Published: December 2014

Image sensors are typically characterized by slow sampling rates, which limit their efficacy in signal reconstruction applications. Their integrative nature though produces image blur when the exposure window is long enough to capture relative motion of the observed object relative to the sensor. Image blur contains more information on the observed dynamics than the typically used centroids, i.e., time averages of the motion within the exposure window. Parameters characterizing the observed motion, such as the signal derivatives at specified sampling instants, can be used for signal reconstruction through the derivative sampling extension of the known sampling theorem. Using slow image based sensors as derivative samplers allows for reconstruction of faster signals, overcoming Nyquist limitations. In this manuscript, we present an algorithm to extract values of a signal and its derivatives from blurred image measurements at specified sampling instants, i.e. the center of the exposure windows, show its application in two signal reconstruction numerical examples and provide a numerical study on the sensitivity of the extracted values to significant problem parameters.
Determination of Most Desirable Nominal Closed Loop State Space System via Qualitative Ecological Principles
Authors: Yedavalli Rama K. , Devarakonda Nagini
Published: December 2014

This paper addresses the issue of determining the most desirable ‘Nominal Closed Loop Matrix’ structure in linear state space systems, by combining the concepts of ‘Quantitative Robustness’ and ‘Qualitative Robustness’. The qualitative robustness measure is based on the nature of interactions and interconnections of the system. The quantitative robustness is based on the nature of eigenvalue/eigenvector structure of the system. This type of analysis from both viewpoints sheds considerable insight on the desirable nominal system in engineering applications. Using these concepts it is shown that a specific quantitative set of matrices labeled ‘Quantitative Ecological Stable (QES) Matrices’ have features which qualify them as the most desirable nominal closed loop system matrices. Thus in this paper, we expand on the special features of the determinant of a matrix in terms of self-regulation, interactions and interconnections and specialize these features to the class of ‘Quantitative Ecological Stable (QES)’ matrices and show that for checking its Hurwitz stability, it is sufficient to check the positivity of only the constant coefficient of the characteristic polynomial of a matrix in a higher dimensional ‘Kronecker’ space. In addition, it is shown that these matrices possess the most attractive property among any matrix class, namely that their Determinants possess convexity property. Establishment of this optimal nominal closed loop system matrix structure paves the way for designing controllers which qualify as robust controllers for linear systems with real parameter uncertainty. The proposed concepts are illustrated with many useful examples.
An Ultrasonic Approach for Sensing and Imaging Shielding Containers of Nuclear Threats
Authors: Martínez Lorenzo José Á. , Álvarez López Yuri
Published: December 2014

A new guided wave imaging application for fast, low-cost ultrasound-based cargo scanning system is presented. The goal is the detection of high-atomic-number, shielding containers used to diminish the radiological signature of nuclear threats. This ultrasonic technology complements currently deployed X-ray-based radiographic systems, thus enhancing the probability of detecting nuclear threats.

An array of acoustic transceivers can be attached to the metallic structure of the truck to create a guided acoustic wave. Guided medium thickness and composition variation creates reflections whose placement can be revealed by means of an imaging algorithm. The knowledge of the reflection position provides information about the shielding container location inside the truck.

Reflected waves in the guided domain bounds may limit the performance of imaging methods for guided media. This contribution proposes a solution based on Fourier domain analysis, where plane wave components can be filtered out, thus removing non-desired contributions from bounds. Apart from this, the imaging algorithm can be used to recover information about material composition. Simulation-based examples are used for algorithm validation.
Sensitivity Comparison to Loop Latencies Between Damping Versus Stiffness Feedback Control Action in Distributed Controllers
Authors: Zhao Ye , Paine Nicholas , Sentis Luis
Published: December 2014

This paper studies the effects of damping and stiffness feedback loop latencies on closed-loop system stability and performance. Phase margin stability analysis, step response performance and tracking accuracy are respectively simulated for a rigid actuator with impedance control. Both system stability and tracking performance are more sensitive to damping feedback than stiffness feedback latencies. Several comparative tests are simulated and experimentally implemented on a real-world actuator to verify our conclusion. This discrepancy in sensitivity motivates the necessity of implementing embedded damping, in which damping feedback is implemented locally at the low level joint controller. A direct benefit of this distributed impedance control strategy is the enhancement of closed-loop system stability. Using this strategy, feedback effort and thus closed-loop actuator impedance may be increased beyond the levels possible for a monolithic impedance controller. High impedance is desirable to minimize tracking error in the presence of disturbances. Specially, trajectory tracking accuracy is tested by a fast swing and a slow stance motion of a knee joint emulating NASA-JSC’s Valkyrie legged robot. When damping latencies are lowered beyond stiffness latencies, gravitational disturbance is rejected, thus demonstrating the accurate tracking performance enabled by a distributed impedance controller.
Stability Analysis for Neutral and Time-Varying Systems Using Linear Lyapunov Functionals and a Positive Systems Approach
Authors: Mazenc Frédéric , Malisoff Michael
Published: December 2014

We present new methods for proving stability of time-varying linear systems with delays. Our main tools include positive systems and linear Lyapunov functionals. Our work applies to key classes of systems that arise in numerous engineering applications, including neutral systems, and systems that are not necessarily periodic in time and not necessarily positive. We prove stability by comparing the trajectories of the original systems with trajectories of higher dimensional positive systems. One of our key results requires an upper bound on the delay, but the delay can be unknown. Our work also provides robustness of the stability with respect to uncertainties in the coefficient matrices of the system. We illustrate our work in three examples, which show how our methods can sometimes be used with backstepping and linearization to cover even more general classes of systems.
Design and Dynamic Modeling of a Flexible Feathering Joint for Robotic Fish Pectoral Fins
Authors: Behbahani Sanaz Bazaz , Tan Xiaobo
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we propose a novel design for a pectoral fin joint of a robotic fish. This joint uses a flexible part to enable the rowing pectoral fin to feather passively and thus reduce the hydrodynamic drag in the recovery stroke. On the other hand, a mechanical stopper allows the fin to maintain its motion prescribed by the servomotor in the power stroke. The design results in net thrust even when the fin is actuated symmetrically for the power and recovery strokes. A dynamic model for this joint and for a pectoral fin-actuated robotic fish involving such joints is presented. The pectoral fin is modeled as a rigid plate connected to the servo arm through a pair of torsional spring and damper that describes the flexible joint. The hydrodynamic force on the fin is evaluated with blade element theory, where all three components of the force are considered due to the feathering degree of freedom of the fin. Experimental results on robotic fish prototype are provided to support the effectiveness of the design and the presented dynamic model. We utilize three different joints (with different sizes and different flexible materials), produced with a multi-material 3D printer, and measure the feathering angles of the joints and the forward swimming velocities of the robotic fish. Good match between the model predictions and experimental data is achieved, and the advantage of the proposed flexible joint over a rigid joint, where the power and recovery strokes have to be actuated at different speeds to produce thrust, is demonstrated.
A Simplified Two-Stage Design of Linear Discrete-Time Feedback Controllers With Applications to Systems With Slow and Fast Modes
Authors: Radisavljevic-Gajic Verica
Published: December 2014

In this paper we have shown how to simplify an algorithm for the two stage design of linear feedback controllers by reducing computational requirements. The algorithm is further simplified for linear discrete-time systems with slow and fast modes (multi-time scale systems or singularly perturbed systems) providing independent and accurate designs in slow and fast time scales. The simplified design procedure and its very high accuracy are demonstrated on the eigenvalue assignment problem of a steam power system.
Impact of Engine Dynamics on Torque Split Management of a Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Authors: Bidarvatan Mehran , Shahbakhti Mahdi
Published: December 2014

Energy management strategies in a parallel Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) greatly depend on the accuracy of internal combustion engine (ICE) data. It is a common practice to rely on static maps for required engine torque-fuel efficiency data. The engine dynamics are ignored in these static maps and it is uncertain how neglecting these dynamics can affect fuel economy of a parallel HEV. This paper presents the impact of ICE dynamics on the performance of the torque split management strategy. A parallel HEV torque split strategy is developed using a method of model predictive control. The control strategy is implemented on a HEV model with an experimentally validated, dynamic ICE model. Simulation results show that the ICE dynamics can degrade performance of the HEV control strategy during the transient periods of the vehicle operation by more than 20% for city driving conditions in a common North American drive cycle. This also leads to substantial fuel penalty which is often overlooked in conventional HEV energy management strategies.
Syringe Position Control for Back Pressure Modulated Drop Volume in Functional Inkjet Printing
Authors: Bajaj Nikhil , Boley J. William , Fulton Aaron , Chiu George T.-C.
Published: December 2014

Inkjet printing technologies have been common and well developed over the past few decades, and more recently have gained significant acceptance in functional printing and additive manufacturing applications. Control of dot gain in the deposition process is a desirable capability for a printing system from the perspective of process control and throughput, and preliminary data suggests dot gain and drop volume can be controlled in inkjet systems through manipulation of the reservoir back pressure. In order to help facilitate further exploration, the design of a back pressure control system is proposed, and the system modeled, with linear and nonlinear control designs proposed and compared in simulation for this nonlinear plant application, where the nonlinear control design, a sliding mode controller, outperforms the tested linear control design.
A Self-Reacting Point Absorber With a Novel Mechanical Motion Rectifier as Power Takeoff System
Authors: Liang Changwei , Ai Junxiao , Zuo Lei
Published: December 2014

A two-body self-reacting point absorber is proposed in this paper. This two body system is designed as a floating buoy and a bottom sphere. The energy is harvested through the relative motion between these two bodies. A mechanical motion rectifier (MMR) is used as the power takeoff (PTO) system. The PTO system will experience engagement and disengagement under wave excitation. Due to this nonlinearity, a time domain model is developed. The influences of the PTO parameters such as the equivalent inertia mass and equivalent damping on the absorbed power are obtained in regular waves. The system parameters were chosen to maximize the absorbed power. The performance of this device in irregular waves was also investigated.
Building Stiffness Estimation by Wave Traveling Times
Authors: Morales-Valdez Jesús , Alvarez-Icaza Luis
Published: December 2014

A novel technique to estimate stiffness in buildings is presented. In contrast with most of the available work in the literature that resorts to diverse forms of modal analysis, this local technique is based on the propagation of a Ricker pulse through the structure and on measuring the wave arrival times at each story of the building, represented as a single layer in a multiple stratum model. These arrival times are later used to recuperate building stiffness at each story. Wave propagation is based on the Thomson-Haskell method, that allows to generalize the wave propagation method to multi-story buildings without significant changes to the original formulation. The number of calculated parameters is small in comparison with methods based on modal analysis. This technique provides and quick and easy methodology to assess building integrity and is an interesting alternative to verify results obtained by other identification methods. Simulation results for building with heterogeneous characteristics across the stories confirm the feasibility of the proposal.
Stability Analysis of Nonlinear Connected Vehicle Systems
Authors: Zhang Linjun , Orosz Gábor
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we investigate the nonlinear dynamics of connected vehicle systems. Vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication is exploited when controlling the longitudinal motion of a few vehicles in the traffic flow. In order to achieve the desired system-level behavior, the plant stability and the head-to-tail string stability are characterized at the nonlinear level using Lyapunov functions. A motif-based approach is utilized that allows modular design for large-scale vehicle networks. Stability analysis of motifs are summarized using stability diagrams, which are validated by numerical simulations.
On distance dependence of pinna spectral patterns in head-related transfer functions
Authors: Spagnol Simone
Published: December 2014

The aim of this letter is to address a little understood question in sound source localization: Can the distance of a near sound source affect our own perception of its elevation? The issue is studied by means of an objective analysis of a database of distance-dependent head-related transfer functions (HRTFs) of a KEMAR (Knowles Electronic Manikin for Acoustic Research) mannequin with different pinnae on a dense spatial grid. Iso-directional HRTFs are compared through spectral error metrics; results indicate significant distance-dependent HRTF modifications due to the pinna occur when the source is close to the interaural axis.
Extraction of viscoelastic functions from creep data with ringing
Authors: Kim Mingyung , Bae Jung-Eun , Kang Namcheol , Soo Cho Kwang
Published: December 2014

Sometimes the creep ringing phenomena are observed as results of the coupling between the instrumental inertia and the viscoelasticity of the materials. Especially, biopolymer solutions are apt to be the victim of creep ringing because creep test is usually conducted to enlarge the frequency range of dynamic data. To overcome the creep ringing problems, we developed a general method which extracts pure material response functions from creep data with ringing by the use of Laplace transform and nonlinear regression method. The method is not based on spring-dashpot models and gives continuous relaxation time spectrum.
Paternal Lifestyle-Related Parenting Practices Mediate Changes in Children’s Dietary and Physical Activity Behaviors: Findings From the Healthy Dads, Healthy Kids Community Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lloyd Adam B. , Lubans David R. , Plotnikoff Ronald C. , Morgan Philip J.
Published: December 2014

Background:

This study examined potential parenting-related mediators of children’s physical activity and dietary behavior change in the Healthy Dads, Healthy Kids (HDHK) community program.

Methods:

A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 45 overweight/obese (mean [SD] age = 39.8 [5.4] years; BMI = 32.4 [3.8]) fathers and their children (n = 77; 58% boys; mean [SD] age = 7.7 [2.5] years). Families were randomized to either the HDHK program or wait-list control group. The program involved 7 sessions. Fathers and their children were assessed at baseline and at 14 weeks for physical activity (pedometery) and core food intake (Questionnaire). Fathers’ lifestyle-related parenting practices included; self-efficacy, beliefs, modeling, logistic support, rules, cophysical activity, shared mealtime frequency and intentions.

Results:

Significant intervention effects were found for cophysical activity and modeling physical activity. Cophysical activity mediated children’s physical activity in the intervention (‘mediated effect,’ AB = 653, 95% CI = 4–2050) and was responsible for 59.5% of the intervention effect. Fathers’ beliefs mediated children’s percent energy from core foods (AB = 1.51, 95% CI = 0.05–5.55) and accounted for 72.9% of the intervention effect.

Conclusions:

Participation in the HDHK program positively impacted on fathers’ cophysical activity with their child and beliefs about healthy eating which mediated changes in children’s diet and physical activity behaviors.
Chapter 3 Feasibility Study of Comprehensive School Physical Activity Programs in Appalachian Communities: The McDowell CHOICES Project
Authors: Jones Emily M. , Taliaferro Andrea R. , Elliott Eloise M. , Bulger Sean M. , Kristjansson Alfgeir L. , Neal William , Allar Ishonté
Published: December 2014

Increasing rates of childhood obesity has prompted calls for comprehensive approaches to school-based physical activity (PA). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of comprehensive school physical activity program (CSPAP) development and related contextual issues within a rural Appalachian county using a Systems Approach. A multicomponent needs assessment was conducted, including 11 school site visits with interviews with school personnel, physical space audits, and self-reported professional development, curricular, and equipment/resource needs. Data were summarized into case narratives describing context, space/facilities, and school assets/needs. Member checks verified the accuracy of narratives and inductive cross-case analysis was used to explore emergent themes. Six themes emerged: Leadership/Capacity Building, PA Access and Opportunities, Physical Education/PA Equipment and Resources, Physical Fitness Data Management and Reporting, Equity and Access to Safe and Usable Play Spaces, and Community Connections. Results support the feasibility of CSPAPs in rural communities and provide insight to factors influencing CSPAP. This study provides a framework for schools considering the development of CSPAP.
Chapter 7 Effects of a Classroom-Based Physical Activity Program on Children’s Physical Activity Levels
Authors: Goh Tan Leng , Hannon James , Webster Collin Andrew , Podlog Leslie William , Brusseau Timothy , Newton Maria
Published: December 2014

High levels of physical inactivity are evident among many American children. To address this problem, providing physical activity (PA) during the school day within the CSPAP framework, is one strategy to increase children’s PA. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a classroom-based PA program on children’s PA. Two hundred and ten students from one school participated in TAKE 10! for 12 weeks. All students wore pedometers and a sample of 64 students wore accelerometers for 4 days during week 1 (baseline), week 8 (midintervention), and week 12 (end-intervention). Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA. The results showed that students’ daily in-school step counts increased by 672 steps from baseline to midintervention (P < .001). Students’ moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) increased by approximately 2 minutes from baseline to end-intervention (P < .01). In conclusion, participating in TAKE 10! helps children strive toward the goal of recommended daily MVPA.
Chapter 6 Case Study of an Institutionalized Urban Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program
Authors: Doolittle Sarah A. , Rukavina Paul B.
Published: December 2014

This single case study (Yin, 2009) compares an established urban physical education/sport/physical activity program with two models: Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program/CSPAP (AAHPERD, 2013; CDC, 2013); and Lawson’s propositions (2005) for sport, exercise and physical education for empowerment and community development to determine their applicability in urban schools. Data include semistructured interviews, multiple observations, and artifacts collected over two academic years. Triangulation, peer debriefing, and interpretative and member checks were used for trustworthiness. Findings indicate that most aspects of both theories were evident in the program, though goals exceeded those of CSPAP as stated, and Lawson’s concept of “community” was limited. Major themes related to establishing this CSPAP are described, including practical strategies for budget, scheduling and staffing, and qualities of leadership. Stakeholders reported that they valued the program not for student wellness, but for personal, social and academic well being, as well as for contributions to the school culture.
A stagnation event in the deep South Atlantic during the last interglacial period
Authors: Hayes Christopher T. , Martínez-García Alfredo , Hasenfratz Adam P. , Jaccard Samuel L. , Hodell David A. , Sigman Daniel M. , Haug Gerald H. , Anderson Robert F.
Published: December 2014

During the last interglacial period, global temperatures were ~2°C warmer than at present and sea level was 6 to 8 meters higher. Southern Ocean sediments reveal a spike in authigenic uranium 127,000 years ago, within the last interglacial, reflecting decreased oxygenation of deep water by Antarctic Bottom Water (AABW). Unlike ice age reductions in AABW, the interglacial stagnation event appears decoupled from open ocean conditions and may have resulted from coastal freshening due to mass loss from the Antarctic ice sheet. AABW reduction coincided with increased North Atlantic Deep Water (NADW) formation, and the subsequent reinvigoration in AABW coincided with reduced NADW formation. Thus, alternation of deep water formation between the Antarctic and the North Atlantic, believed to characterize ice ages, apparently also occurs in warm climates.
Comment on “A 12-million-year temperature history of the tropical Pacific Ocean”
Authors: Ravelo Ana Christina , Lawrence Kira Trillium , Fedorov Alexey , Ford Heather Louise
Published: December 2014

Zhang
et al
. (Reports, 4 April 2014, p. 84) interpret TEX
86
and

U

37

K
'

paleotemperature data as providing a fundamentally new view of tropical Pacific climate during the warm Pliocene period. We argue that, within error, their Pliocene data actually support previously published data indicating average western warm-pool temperature similar to today and a reduced zonal gradient, referred to as a permanent El Niño–like state.
Extreme electric fields power catalysis in the active site of ketosteroid isomerase
Authors: Fried Stephen D. , Bagchi Sayan , Boxer Steven G.
Published: December 2014

Enzymes use protein architecture to impose specific electrostatic fields onto their bound substrates, but the magnitude and catalytic effect of these electric fields have proven difficult to quantify with standard experimental approaches. Using vibrational Stark effect spectroscopy, we found that the active site of the enzyme ketosteroid isomerase (KSI) exerts an extremely large electric field onto the C=O chemical bond that undergoes a charge rearrangement in KSI’s rate-determining step. Moreover, we found that the magnitude of the electric field exerted by the active site strongly correlates with the enzyme’s catalytic rate enhancement, enabling us to quantify the fraction of the catalytic effect that is electrostatic in origin. The measurements described here may help explain the role of electrostatics in many other enzymes and biomolecular systems.
Quantum harmonic oscillator state synthesis by reservoir engineering
Authors: Kienzler D. , Lo H.-Y. , Keitch B. , de Clercq L. , Leupold F. , Lindenfelser F. , Marinelli M. , Negnevitsky V. , Home J. P.
Published: December 2014

Engineering a shelter for quantum protection

In isolation, quantum states of matter can be stable entities. These states are often seen as useful when they can be made to interact in a controlled way. However, those interactions and the unavoidable interactions with their environment often correlate with decoherence and eventual loss of the quantum state. Kienzler
et al.
show that they can engineer the interactions between a quantum system (a trapped ion) and the environment to prepare stable quantum states. The generality of the technique implies applications for other interacting quantum systems.

Science
, this issue p.
53
De novo design of a transmembrane Zn
2+
-transporting four-helix bundle
Authors: Joh Nathan H. , Wang Tuo , Bhate Manasi P. , Acharya Rudresh , Wu Yibing , Grabe Michael , Hong Mei , Grigoryan Gevorg , DeGrado William F.
Published: December 2014

The design of functional membrane proteins from first principles represents a grand challenge in chemistry and structural biology. Here, we report the design of a membrane-spanning, four-helical bundle that transports first-row transition metal ions Zn
2+
and Co
2+
, but not Ca
2+
, across membranes. The conduction path was designed to contain two di-metal binding sites that bind with negative cooperativity. X-ray crystallography and solid-state and solution nuclear magnetic resonance indicate that the overall helical bundle is formed from two tightly interacting pairs of helices, which form individual domains that interact weakly along a more dynamic interface. Vesicle flux experiments show that as Zn
2+
ions diffuse down their concentration gradients, protons are antiported. These experiments illustrate the feasibility of designing membrane proteins with predefined structural and dynamic properties.
More than fine tuning
Authors: Hildebrandt Peter
Published: December 2014

Local electric fields accelerate an enzymatic reaction

[Also see Report by

Fried
et al.

]
Comparative Genome Analysis of Two Isolates of the Fish Pathogen Piscirickettsia salmonis from Different Hosts Reveals Major Differences in Virulence-Associated Secretion Systems
Authors: Bohle Harry , Henríquez Patricio , Grothusen Horst , Navas Esteban , Sandoval Alvaro , Bustamante Fernando , Bustos Patricio , Mancilla Marcos
Published: December 2014

Outbreaks caused by
Piscirickettsia salmonis
are one of the major threats to the sustainability of the Chilean salmon industry. We report here the annotated draft genomes of two
P. salmonis
isolates recovered from different salmonid species. A comparative analysis showed that the number of virulence-associated secretion systems constitutes a main genomic difference.
Complete Genome Sequence of Solvent-Tolerant Clostridium beijerinckii Strain SA-1
Authors: Noar Jesse , Makwana S. T. , Bruno-Bárcena José M.
Published: December 2014

We report the complete genome sequence of
Clostridium beijerinckii
SA-1, derived by directed evolution from
C. beijerinckii
NCIMB 8052, selecting for enhanced solvent tolerance. This sequence allows for accurate placement of SA-1 as
C. beijerinckii
, permits functional analyses of mutant phenotypes, and suggests methods for distinguishing SA-1 from its parent.
Draft Genome Sequence of Chelonobacter oris Strain 1662
T
, Associated with Respiratory Disease in Hermann's Tortoises
Authors: Kudirkiene Egle , Hansen Mie Johanne , Bojesen Anders Miki
Published: December 2014

Chelonobacter oris
1662
T
is a type strain of the recently described species of the
Pasteurellaceae
family. The strain was isolated from the choanae of a captive tortoise with signs of respiratory tract infection. The genome reported here is approximately 2.6 Mb in size and has a G+C content of 47.1%.
Immediate Effect of Three Different Electroacupuncture Protocols on Fasting Blood Glucose in Obese Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Belivani Maria , Lundeberg Thomas , Cummings Mike , Dimitroula Charikleia , Belivani Nicole , Vasilakos Dimitris , Hatzitolios Apostolos
Published: December 2014

Background

Obesity is an increasing global health problem, and current methods of management are limited. Preliminary research data suggest that acupuncture may have an influence on metabolic parameters related to obesity.

Objective

To determine the electroacupuncture (EA) protocol to be used in a future clinical trial examining the effect of acupuncture on metabolic parameters related to obesity and to examine whether a single EA treatment can change fasting blood glucose in obese subjects.

Methods

16 obese women aged 30–52 years with body mass index >30 kg/m2 were assigned consecutively into three groups and their fasting blood glucose was measured before and after administering a single session, lasting 30 min, of one of three EA treatment protocols. The Dorsal group received EA to dorsal segmental acupuncture points BL18–23 bilaterally (corresponding to the segmental levels innervating the pancreas); the Ear group received EA to ear points in the cavum conchae; and the Limb group received EA to points in the arms and legs (LI10–LI11, ST36– Zongping).

Results

After a single session of EA there was a statistically significant decrease in fasting blood glucose in the Dorsal and Limb groups, but there was no change and even a trend towards an increase in the glucose level in the Ear group.

Conclusions

The findings of this small pilot study suggest that EA to either dorsal segmental points corresponding to the pancreas or to muscle points in all four limbs may exert a beneficial effect on glucose metabolism in obese women.
Pulmonary arteriovascular malformation: a rare cause of unexplained hypoxia and acute dyspnoea in young patients
Authors: Iqbal Nousheen , Rehman Karim Abdur , Khan Javaid Ahmed , Haq Tanveer Ul
Published: December 2014

Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are anomalous vascular connections between arteries and veins in the lung and comprise of two types, simple and complex. PAVMs are associated with congenital conditions such as hereditary haemorrhagic telengiectasia along with acquired causes. We present a case of a 26-year-old man who presented with dyspnoea, palpitations and decreased oxygen saturation as an initial presentation of PAVM, which was treated successively with embolisation.
Macular injury resulting from a high-powered tank laser telemetry device
Authors: Durukan Ali Hakan , Gokce G , Guven S , Koylu T , Erdurman F C
Published: December 2014

A high-powered laser is an essential part of a modern military rangefinder; however, this paper presents three cases with macular injury resulting from a high-powered tank laser telemetry device. All injuries occurred when another user deliberately pointed the telemetry target unit at the patient's eyes. The devastating effect of this high-powered laser resulted in a permanent foveal scar in the second patient and a macular hole formation in the third patient. This report emphasises that education plays a primary role in preventing accidental laser injuries. Using general guidelines and safety regulations will prevent accidental macular injuries.
Fisher zeros of a unitary Bose gas
Authors: van Dijk Wytse , Lobo Calvin , MacDonald Allison , Bhaduri Rajat K.
Published: December 2014

For real inverse temperature β, the canonical partition function is always positive, being a sum of positive terms. There are zeros, however, on the complex β plane that are called Fisher zeros. In the thermodynamic limit, the Fisher zeros coalesce into continuous curves. In case there is a phase transition, the zeros tend to pinch the real-β axis. For an ideal trapped Bose gas in an isotropic three-dimensional harmonic oscillator, this tendency is clearly seen, signalling Bose–Einstein condensation (BEC). The calculation can be formulated exactly in terms of the virial expansion with temperature-dependent virial coefficients. When the second virial coefficient of a strongly interacting attractive unitary gas is included in the calculation, BEC seems to survive, with the condensation temperature shifted to a lower value for the unitary gas. This shift is consistent with a direct calculation of the heat capacity from the canonical partition function of the ideal and the unitary gas.
Design and Performance of the X-ray Polarimeter X-Calibur
Authors: Beilicke M. , Kislat F. , Zajczyk A. , Guo Q. , Endsley R. , Stork M. , Cowsik R. , Dowkontt P. , Barthelmy S. , Hams T. , Okajima T. , Sasaki M. , Zeiger B. , De Geronimo G. , Baring M. G. , Krawczynski H.
Published: December 2014

X-ray polarimetry promises to give qualitatively new information about high-energy astrophysical sources, such as binary black hole systems, micro-quasars, active galactic nuclei, neutron stars, and gamma-ray bursts. We designed, built and tested a X-ray polarimeter, X-Calibur, to be used in the focal plane of the balloon-borne InFOCμS grazing incidence X-ray telescope. X-Calibur combines a low-Z scatterer with a Cadmium Zinc Telluride (CZT) detector assembly to measure the polarization of 20–80 keV X-rays making use of the fact that polarized photons scatter preferentially perpendicular to the electric field orientation. X-Calibur achieves a high detection efficiency of ≃80%. The X-Calibur detector assembly is completed, tested, and fully calibrated. The response to a polarized X-ray beam was measured successfully at the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source. This paper describes the design, calibration and performance of the X-Calibur polarimeter. In principle, a similar space-borne scattering polarimeter could operate over the broader 2–100 keV energy band.
Fault baffle to conduit developments: reactivation and calcite cementation of deformation band fault in aeolian sandstone
Authors: Skurtveit Elin , Torabi Anita , Alikarami Reza , Braathen Alvar
Published: December 2014

The damage zone of three small faults in the Navajo and Page formations, located on the NE side of San Rafael Swell, Utah, USA, are studied. Scanlines and microstructural analyses are used to document three distinct deformation events: (1) an early phase creating cataclastic deformation bands, during which most of the displacement on the fault took place; (2) a fracturing event with opening and shearing along fractures; and (3) fluid flow and local calcite precipitation along the NW-trending faults. Microstructural characterization of deformation structures shows complex interaction between deformation bands, fractures and the calcite precipitation. Calcite cement is observed as veins in the host rock and along cataclastic bands, with varying amount of cataclastic material floating within the veins. In addition to patchy calcite cement in the host rock, extensive poikilotopic cementation is observed to extend into cataclastic bands with a low degree of cataclasis. However, some cataclastic bands with a high degree of cataclasis show almost no cementation. Development of deformation bands and their link to fracturing affected the flow field, from a fault baffle to a conduit. Calcite cementation reveals the flow paths, before cementation recreated the fault baffle.
The late rifting phase and continental break-up of the southern South Atlantic: the mode and timing of volcanic rifting and formation of earliest oceanic crust
Authors: Koopmann H. , Schreckenberger B. , Franke D. , Becker K. , Schnabel M.
Published: December 2014

Multichannel seismic and potential field data shed light on the final rifting stage in the southern South Atlantic. This was associated with major episodes of magmatism during the Early Cretaceous continental break-up. An asymmetrical simple shear-dominated variable strain rifting model is proposed with the margin asymmetry visible in shelf width, amplitude of magnetic anomalies, orientation of break-up-related sedimentary basins and basement slope angle. Along-margin rotation in spreading- and later rifting-direction from north–south to west–east are of great importance for the asymmetries. Such rotational opening may also explain why the southernmost segments of the South Atlantic are magma starved, with a sharp transition to a volcanic-rifted margin type northwards. Interpretation of pre-M5 (
c.
130 Ma) magnetic seafloor spreading lineations constrains the timing of excess break-up-related volcanism and transition to ‘normal’ seafloor spreading. Termination of magnetic anomalies within seaward-dipping reflector sequences points towards a deposition of the volcanics from south to north prior to and during the early rift and opening stages. Identification of previously unknown pre-M5 magnetic lineations offshore Argentina completes the lineation pattern in the southern South Atlantic. The oldest magnetic anomaly related to oceanic spreading is M9 (
c.
135 Ma). Older anomalies, previously identified as M11 (
c.
137 Ma) offshore Cape Town, are related to structural or magnetization variations within seaward-dipping reflector sequences.
Ontology-Based Query Answering with Group Preferences
Authors: Lukasiewicz Thomas , Martinez Maria Vanina , Simari Gerardo I. , Tifrea-Marciuska Oana
Published: December 2014

The Web has recently been evolving into a system that is in many ways centered on social interactions and is now more and more becoming what is called the Social Semantic Web. One of the many implications of such an evolution is that the ranking of search results no longer depends solely on the structure of the interconnections among Web pages—instead, the social components must also come into play. In this article, we argue that such rankings can be based on ontological background knowledge and on user preferences. Another aspect that has become increasingly important in recent times is that of uncertainty management, since uncertainty can arise due to many uncontrollable factors. To combine these two aspects, we propose extensions of the Datalog+/-- family of ontology languages that both allow for the management of partially ordered preferences of groups of users as well as uncertainty, which is represented via a probabilistic model. We focus on answering
k
-rank queries in this context, presenting different strategies to compute group preferences as an aggregation of the preferences of a collection of single users. We also study merging operators that are useful for combining the preferences of the users with those induced by the values obtained from the probabilistic model. We then provide algorithms to answer
k
-rank queries for DAQs (disjunctions of atomic queries) under these group preferences and uncertainty that generalizes top-
k
queries based on the iterative computation of classical skyline answers. We show that such DAQ answering in Datalog+/-- can be done in polynomial time in the data complexity, under certain reasonable conditions, as long as query answering can also be done in polynomial time (in the data complexity) in the underlying classical ontology. Finally, we present a prototype implementation of the query answering system, as well as experimental results (on the running time of our algorithms and the quality of their results) obtained from real-world ontological data and preference models, derived from information gathered from real users, showing in particular that our approach is feasible in practice.
Role of Fn14 in acute alcoholic steatohepatitis in mice
Authors: Karaca Gamze , Xie Guanhua , Moylan Cynthia , Swiderska-Syn Marzena , Guy Cynthia D. , Krüger Leandi , Machado Mariana Verdelho , Choi Steve S. , Michelotti Gregory A. , Burkly Linda C. , Diehl Anna Mae
Published: December 2014

TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) is a growth factor for bipotent liver progenitors that express its receptor, fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14), a TNF receptor superfamily member. Accumulation of Fn14+ progenitors occurs in severe acute alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) and correlates with acute mortality. In patients with severe ASH, inhibition of TNF-α increases acute mortality. The aim of this study was to determine whether deletion of Fn14 improves the outcome of liver injury in alcohol-consuming mice. Wild-type (WT) and Fn14 knockout (KO) mice were fed control high-fat Lieber deCarli diet or high-fat Lieber deCarli diet with 2% alcohol (ETOH) and injected intraperitoneally with CCl4 for 2 wk to induce liver injury. Mice were euthanized 3 or 10 days after CCl4 treatment. Survival was assessed. Liver tissues were analyzed for cell death, inflammation, proliferation, progenitor accumulation, and fibrosis by quantitative RT-PCR, immunoblot, hydroxyproline content, and quantitative immunohistochemistry. During liver injury, Fn14 expression, apoptosis, inflammation, hepatocyte replication, progenitor and myofibroblast accumulation, and fibrosis increased in WT mice fed either diet. Mice fed either diet expressed similar TWEAK/Fn14 levels, but ETOH-fed mice had higher TNF-α expression. The ETOH-fed group developed more apoptosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and regenerative responses. Fn14 deletion did not reduce hepatic TNF-α expression but improved all injury parameters in mice fed the control diet. In ETOH-fed mice, Fn14 deletion inhibited TNF-α induction and increased acute mortality, despite improvement in liver injury. Fn14 mediates wound-healing responses that are necessary to survive acute liver injury during alcohol exposure.
Class-Based Constraint-Based Routing with Implemented Fuzzy Logic in MPLS-TE Networks
Authors: Pištek Michal , Medvecký Martin
Published: December 2014

The paper deals with constraint-based routing (CBR) in MPLS-TE networks and proposes a new CBR algorithm based on fuzzy logic called Fuzzy Class-Based Algorithm (FCBA). Multiprotocol label switching with traffic engineering (MPLS-TE) networks represent a popular mechanism to effectively use resources of service providers’ core networks. The paths can be either built by administrators (explicit routing) or built by using existing routing algorithms which mostly decide based on the shortest paths towards the destination which might not be sufficient in nowadays’ multimedia networks. To address this problem various CBR algorithms have emerged which take into consideration various aspects important to existing traffic like QoS parameters or administrative policies. FCBA makes routing decisions based on traffic classes and by using fuzzy logic we can assign normalized values to various constraints based on the traffic class’ preferences (e.g., low delay paths for voice traffic) and network administrator’s preferences (e.g., avoiding congested links). The paper provides comparison of FCBA with existing CBR approaches based on their ability to provide QoS parameters loss. The simulations show that FCBA provides the best results for the highest priority traffic where it uses lower priority traffic to efficiently utilize the network.
Cartilage Degeneration at Symptomatic Persistent Olecranon Physis in Adolescent Baseball Players
Authors: Enishi Tetsuya , Matsuura Tetsuya , Suzue Naoto , Takahashi Yoshinori , Sairyo Koichi
Published: December 2014

Background. Elbow overuse injuries are common in adolescent baseball players, but symptomatic persistent olecranon physis is rare, and its pathogenesis remains unclear.Purpose. To examine the histopathological and imaging findings of advanced persistent olecranon physis.Methods. The olecranon physes of 2 baseball pitchers, aged 14 and 15 years, were examined by preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and surgical specimens were examined histologically.Results. T2-weighted MRI revealed alterations in the intrachondral signal intensity possibly related to collagen degeneration and increased free water content. Histological findings of specimens stained with hematoxylin-eosin showed complete disorganization of the cartilage structure, hypocellularity, chondrocyte cluster formation, and moderately reduced staining. All these findings are hallmarks of osteoarthritis and are suggestive of cartilage degeneration.Conclusion. Growth plate degeneration was evident in advanced cases of symptomatic persistent olecranon physis. These findings contribute to understanding the pathogenesis of this disease.
Bioinformatic Identification of Peptidomimetic-Based Inhibitors againstPlasmodium falciparumAntigen AMA1
Authors: Alam Asrar
Published: December 2014

Plasmodium falciparumapical membrane antigen 1 (PfAMA1) is a valuable vaccine candidate and exported on the merozoite surface at the time of erythrocyte invasion. PfAMA1 interacts with rhoptry neck protein PfRON2, a component of the rhoptry protein complex, which forms the tight junction at the time of invasion. Phage display studies have identified a 15-residue (F1) and a 20-residue (R1) peptide that bind to PfAMA1 and block the invasion of erythrocytes. Cocrystal structures of central region of PfAMA1 containing disulfide-linked clusters (domains I and II) with R1 peptide and a peptide derived from PfRON2 showed strong structural similarity in binding. The peptides bound to a hydrophobic groove surrounded by domain I and II loops. In this study, peptidomimetics based on the crucial PfAMA1-binding residues of PfRON2 peptide have been identified. Top 5 peptidomimetics when checked for their docking on the region of PfAMA1 encompassing the hydrophobic groove were found to dock on the groove. Drug-like molecules having structural similarity to the top 5 peptidomimetics were identified based on their binding ability to PfAMA1 hydrophobic groove in blind docking. These inhibitors provide potential lead compounds, which could be used in the development of antimalarials targeting PfAMA1.
Paraneoplastic Dermatomyositis with Carcinoma Cervix: A Rare Clinical Association
Authors: Kumar Sumir , Mahajan B. B. , Kaur Sandeep , Singh Amarbir
Published: December 2014

Dermatomyositis is an uncommon inflammatory myopathy associated with cutaneous manifestations. It may also occur as paraneoplastic syndrome associated with various malignancies, most common of which being lung, breast, stomach, rectum, kidney, or testicular cancer. A postmenopausal woman presented to us with generalized itching along with skin rash and proximal muscle weakness of 2 years’ duration. Examination revealed heliotrope rash and mechanic hands and muscle power 2/5 in proximal muscle groups of both upper and lower limbs. A clinical diagnosis of dermatomyositis was made which was supported by raised lactate dehydrogenase levels and skin biopsy findings. Past history was significant for vaginal discharge and bleeding per vagina. Further work-up revealed carcinoma cervix and she was referred to oncology department for further management. Temporal relationship and improvement of muscle weakness with treatment of underlying neoplasm supported its paraneoplastic nature. So, final diagnosis of keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma of cervix with paraneoplastic dermatomyositis was made. A nationwide cohort study of 1,012 patients with dermatomyositis in Taiwan revealed only 3 patients with cervical cancer. So this case is being reported for its rare association with carcinoma cervix and to highlight the need of detailed evaluation for underlying malignancies in patients with dermatomyositis.