bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of a Novel Semiconductor Catalyst, CT, in Degradation of Aromatic Pollutants in Wastewater: Phenol and Catechol
Authors: Chen Xiao , Zhang Yanling , Zhou Xuefei , Ichimura Shoji , Tong Guoxiu , Zhou Qiming , Chen Xi , Wang Wenzhao , Liang Yan
Published: April 2014

Water‐soluble phenol and phenolic compounds were generally removed via advanced oxidation processes. A novel semiconductor catalyst, CT, was the first‐time employed in the present study to degrade phenol and catechol. The phenolic compounds (initial concentration of 88 mg L−1) were completely mineralized by the CT catalytic nanoparticles (1%) within 15 days, under acidic condition and with the presence of mild UV radiation (15 w, the emitted wavelength is 254 nm and the light intensity <26 μw/cm2). Under the same reaction condition, 1% TiO2 (mixture of rutile and anatase, nanopowder, <100 nm) and H2O2 had lower removal efficiency (phenol: <42%; catechol: <60%), whereas the control (without addition of catalysts/H2O2) only showed <12% removal. The processes of phenol/catechol removal by CT followed pseudo‐zero‐order kinetics. The aromatic structures absorbed the UV energy and passed to an excited state, which the CT worked on. The pollutants were adsorbed on the CT’s surface and oxidized via charge‐transfer and hydroxyl radical generation by CT. Given low initial concentrations, a circumstance encountered in wastewater polishing, the current set‐up should be an efficient and less energy‐ and chemical‐consumptive treatment method.
Processing Centroids of Smearing Star Image of Star Sensor
Authors: Liao Yufu , Liu Enhai , Zhong Jianyong , Zhang Hui
Published: April 2014

A novel method was presented for increasing the accuracy of subpixel centroid estimation for smearing star image. Model of the smearing trajectory of smearing star was built. It helped to study the analytical form of the errors, caused by image smearing, for centroid estimation. In the algorithm, the errors were estimated with accuracy and used to revise the centroid processed by CoM (centre of mass). Simulations have been run to study the effect of angular rates, integration time, and actual position of star on the accuracy of centroid estimation. Results were presented which suggested that the proposed algorithm had a precision better than 1/10 of a pixel when the angular rate was up to 3.0 deg/s.
Side Information Generation for Distributed Video Coding Using Spatiotemporal Joint Bilinear Upsampling
Authors: Liu Wenhui , Vijayanagar Krishna Rao , Kim Joohee
Published: April 2014

Distributed video coding presents a viable solution for power-constrained multimedia communication. However, its relatively low coding efficiency compared to the conventional video coding schemes remains a challenging issue. The rate-distortion performance of distributed video coding is highly dependent on the quality of side information generated at the decoder and various techniques have been proposed to improve the side information quality in block-based and frame-based distributed video coding architectures. In this paper, a robust spatiotemporal joint bilateral upsampling based side information generation method is proposed. The proposed side information generation method is based on a block-based low-complexity distributed video coding architecture with adaptive block coding mode classification. A partially reconstructed Wyner-Ziv (WZ) frame with skip and key blocks is downsampled and spatiotemporal error concealment and joint bilateral upsampling are used to generate the side information. Simulation results show that the proposed method improves the quality of side information significantly while keeping low computational complexity.
Feasibility of Using Palmyrah Strips as Reinforcing Material in Cost Effective Houses
Authors: Baskaran K. , Mallikarachchi H. E. , Jayasekara M. J. P. L. M. , Madushanka G. A. T.
Published: April 2014

Construction of cost effective houses is a dilemma among the impoverished population in developing countries. The ever increasing price of traditional building materials results in high capital investments for residential buildings. Palmyrah is a significant economic resource, widely spread all over the northeast region of Sri Lanka. This research explores the technical feasibility of using heartwood of Palmyrah as a reinforcing member in lightly loaded concrete elements. Initially, mechanical properties of Palmyrah were examined through static bending, tensile, and compressive tests. Percentages of water absorption, dimensional stability, and anchorage bond strength were investigated to envisage the suitability of Palmyrah as reinforcement. Next, several short span slabs and beams reinforced with Palmyrah strips were subjected to tests. It was observed that Palmyrah reinforcement enhanced the moment capacity of the slabs and beams compared to unreinforced sections. Experimental failure loads of slabs and beams were higher than theoretically predicted values with Palmyrah reinforcement. Further, Palmyrah reinforced beams and slabs underwent flexural failures. Thus, it is concluded that heartwood of Palmyrah has the potential to be used as reinforcement in lightly loaded slabs and beams. Further research is recommended to investigate the durability and serviceability issues.
Lattice Trace Operators
Authors: Jefferies Brian
Published: April 2014

A bounded linear operator T on a Hilbert space ℋ is trace class if its singular values are summable. The trace class operators
on ℋ form an operator ideal and in the case that ℋ is finite-dimensional, the trace tr(T) of T is given by ∑jajj for any matrix representation {aij} of T. In applications of trace class operators to scattering theory and representation theory, the subject is complicated by the fact that if k is an integral kernel of the operator T on the Hilbert space L2(μ) with μ a σ-finite measure, then k(x,x) may not be defined, because the diagonal {(x,x)} may be a set of (μ⊗μ)-measure zero. The present note describes a class of linear operators acting on a Banach function space X which forms a lattice ideal of operators on X, rather than an operator ideal, but coincides with the collection of hermitian positive trace class operators in the case of X=L2(μ).
Assessment of Early Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Clinically Isolated Syndromes and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Baysal Kıraç Leyla , Ekmekçi Özgül , Yüceyar Nur , Sağduyu Kocaman Ayşe
Published: April 2014

Objective. The aim of our study was to investigate the frequency and pattern of cognitive impairment in patients with clinically isolated syndromes and definite diagnosis of multiple sclerosis within the last 2 years.Methods. We assessed the cognitive status of 46 patients aged 18–49 years with clinically isolated syndromes or definite diagnosis of multiple sclerosis who have onset of their symptoms within the last 2 years. Patients were matched with 40 healthy participants for age, sex, and educational level. Neuropsychological assessment was performed by stroop test, paced auditory serial addition test (PASAT), controlled oral word association test (COWAT), clock drawing test, trail making test (TMT), faces symbol test (FST). Hamilton Depression Scale and Modified Fatigue Impact Scale were used to quantify the severity of any depression and fatigue the subjects might suffer.Results. 19.6% of early MS/CIS group failed at 4 and more tests and had significant cognitive impairment focused on attention, executive functions, memory, and learning. No significant relationship was found between cognitive impairment and disability and fatigue scores.Discussion. Cognitive impairment can be present from the earliest stage of multiple sclerosis. It should be considered among the main manifestations of MS even in the earliest stages of the disease.
Sex Differences of Uncinate Fasciculus Structural Connectivity in Individuals with Conduct Disorder
Authors: Zhang Jibiao , Gao Junling , Shi Huqing , Huang Bingsheng , Wang Xiang , Situ Weijun , Cai Weixiong , Yi Jinyao , Zhu Xiongzhao , Yao Shuqiao
Published: April 2014

Conduct disorder (CD) is one of the most common behavior disorders in adolescents, such as impulsivity, aggression, and running from school. Males are more likely to develop CD than females, and two previous diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies have demonstrated abnormal microstructural integrity in the uncinate fasciculus (UF) in boys with CD compared to a healthy control group. However, little is known about changes in the UF in females with CD. In this study, the UF was illustrated by tractography; then, the fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity, mean diffusion, radial diffusivity (RD), and the length and number of the UF fiber bundles were compared between male and female patients with CD and between female patients with CD and female healthy controls, as well as between males with CD and healthy males. We found that males with CD showed significantly higher FA of the bilateral UF and significantly lower RD of the left UF when comparing with females with CD. Meanwhile, significantly higher FA and lower RD of the bilateral UF were also found in boys with CD relative to the male healthy controls. Our results replicated previous reports that the microstructural integrity of the UF was abnormal in boys with CD. Additionally, our results demonstrated significant gender effects on the UF of patients with CD, which may indicate why boys have higher rates of conduct problems than girls.
Beneficial Effect of Glucose Control on Atherosclerosis Progression in Diabetic ApoE−/− Mice: Shown by Rage Directed Imaging
Authors: Tekabe Yared , Kollaros Maria , Li Qing , Zhang Geping , Li Chong , Schmidt Ann Marie , Johnson Lynne L.
Published: April 2014

Objective. Receptor for advanced glycated endproducts (RAGE) plays an important role in atherogenesis in diabetes. We imaged RAGE to investigate the effect of glucose control to suppress RAGE and reduce atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E null (apoE−/−) diabetic mice. Methods and Results. Thirty-three apoE−/− mice received streptozotocin and 6 weeks later 15 began treatment with insulin implants. Blood glucose measurements during study averaged: 140 ± 23 mg/dL (treated) and 354 ± 14 mg/dL (untreated). After 15 wk 30 mice were injected with Tc99m-anti-RAGE F(ab′)2, 3 with Tc99m-nonimmune IgG F(ab′)2, and all with CT contrast agent and underwent SPECT/CT imaging. At necropsy, the proximal aorta was weighed, counted, and sectioned and the % injected dose per gram (%ID/g) was calculated. From the merged SPECT/CT scans, tracer uptake localized to arteries was lower in the treated mice: 3.15±1.82×10-3 versus 8.69±4.58×10-3%ID (P=0.001). Percent cross-sectional lesion area was smaller in the treated (14.3±7.8% versus 29.5±10.9%) (P=0.03). RAGE uptake on scans (%ID) correlated with quantitative RAGE staining in the atheroma and with %ID/g (R=0.6887; P=0.01). Lesion size as percent cross-sectional area was smaller in the treated (14.3±7.8% versus 29.5±10.9%) (P=0.03). RAGE uptake on scans (%ID) correlated with quantitative RAGE staining in the atheroma and with %ID/g (R=0.6887; P=0.01). Conclusions. These results support the importance of suppressing RAGE to reduce atherosclerotic complications of diabetes and value of molecular imaging to assess treatment effect.
Clinical Observations and Occurrence of Complications following Heavy Silicone Oil Surgery
Authors: Schwarzer Hendrik , Mazinani Babac , Plange Niklas , Fuest Matthias , Walter Peter , Roessler Gernot
Published: April 2014

Purpose.To demonstrate development and complications in heavy silicone oil (HSO) surgery in 100 eyes following primary vitreoretinal surgery.Methods.100 eyes were included in this retrospective study that underwent vitreoretinal surgery using HSO as endotamponade. Indication diagnoses were retinal detachments(n=76), complicated macular holes (MH)(n=20), and others(n=4). HSO removal was performed after a mean period of 20.2 ± 19.0 weeks. In 18 eyes with poor functional prognosis the silicone oil remained permanently for stabilisation. Overall follow-up time was 35.9 ± 51.8 weeks.Results.The mean IOP before HSO surgery was 13.3 ± 5.6 mmHg and raised to an average maximum of 23.3 ± 8.5 mmHg postoperatively and decreased to 13.7 ± 7.2 mmHg after removal. Secondary IOP raise due to emulsification of the silicone oil endotamponade was seen in 29 eyes after 7.8 ± 4.5 weeks. Other complications being observed with HSO installed were persistent corneal erosion(n=3)and prolonged anterior chamber inflammation(n=29). In 13 eyes recurrent retinal detachments occurred during followup.Conclusions.According to our analysis HSO surgery might deliver satisfying results in complicated cases of ophthalmological surgery. However, potential complications should always be taken into account when making the decision if to use and when to remove HSO in complicated retinal surgery.
Hydropower Production Profiles: Impacts on Capacity Structure, Emissions, and Windfall Profits
Authors: Kopsakangas-Savolainen Maria , Svento Rauli
Published: April 2014

Production structure in markets with a significant role of hydropower is sensitive to the production profile of hydropower. In this paper we utilize a long-run oriented real-time price based simulation model to analyze through scenarios the impact of different hydropower production profiles on the total annual energy consumed, prices, and capacity structure. We also show the relation between different hydropower production profiles and emissions, costs, and windfall profits. There seems to be no superior scenario under which all socially desirable goals are achieved as there is a clear tradeoff between allowing high windfall profits with highest cost efficiency and achieving the target for lower emissions.
Morphine versus Nalbuphine for Open Gynaecological Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Double Blinded Trial
Authors: Akshat Shiv , Ramachandran Rashmi , Rewari Vimi , Chandralekha  , Trikha Anjan , Sinha Renu
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Pain is the commonest morbidity after open surgical procedures. The most effective treatment of postoperative pain is opioid therapy. Morphine, the commonly used opioid, is associated with many side effects including respiratory depression, sedation, postoperative nausea vomiting, and pruritus. Nalbuphine, on the other hand, is known to cause less respiratory depression. Thus this study was undertaken to compare the intraoperative and postoperative analgesic efficacy and side effect profile of the two drugs. Methodology. 60 patients undergoing open gynaecological surgery were randomized to receive either morphine (Group M) or nalbuphine (Group N) in the intraoperative and postoperative period. Intraoperative analgesic efficacy (measured by need for rescue analgesics), postoperative pain by visual analogue scale, and side effects like postoperative nausea, vomiting, sedation, respiratory depression, and pruritus were compared in both groups. Intraoperative and postoperative heart rate and blood pressure were also compared between the groups. Results. Need for intraoperative analgesia was significantly more in Group N (P=0.023). Postoperative VAS scores were significantly different between the groups at various time points; however, none of the patients required any rescue analgesia. The incidence of various side effects was not significantly different between the groups. The haemodynamic profile of patients was comparable between the groups in both intraoperative and postoperative period. Conclusion. Nalbuphine provides less effective intraoperative analgesia than morphine in patients undergoing open gynaecological surgery under general anaesthesia. Both drugs, however, provided similar postoperative analgesia and had similar haemodynamic and side effect profile.
Nanocatalysts for Hydrogen Generation from Ammonia Borane and Hydrazine Borane
Authors: Lu Zhang-Hui , Yao Qilu , Zhang Zhujun , Yang Yuwen , Chen Xiangshu
Published: April 2014

Ammonia borane (denoted as AB, NH3BH3) and hydrazine borane (denoted as HB, N2H4BH3), having hydrogen content as high as 19.6 wt% and 15.4 wt%, respectively, have been considered as promising hydrogen storage materials. Particularly, the AB and HB hydrolytic dehydrogenation system can ideally release 7.8 wt% and 12.2 wt% hydrogen of the starting materials, respectively, showing their high potential for chemical hydrogen storage. A variety of nanocatalysts have been prepared for catalytic dehydrogenation from aqueous or methanolic solution of AB and HB. In this review, we survey the research progresses in nanocatalysts for hydrogen generation from the hydrolysis or methanolysis of NH3BH3 and N2H4BH3.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation Analysis of a Gene Expression Model with Diffusion and Time Delay
Authors: Peng Yahong , Zhang Tonghua
Published: April 2014

We consider a model for gene expression with one or two time delays and diffusion. The local stability and delay-induced Hopf bifurcation are investigated. We also derive the formulas determining the direction and the stability of Hopf bifurcations by calculating the normal form on the center manifold.
Characteristics of Helium Gas with High Temperature and High Pressure Flowing through a 90-Degree Elbow
Authors: Feng Beibei , Sun Yanfei , Yang Xingtuan , Li Shengqiang , Tu Jiyuan , Jiang Shengyao
Published: April 2014

There exists a certain 90° elbow structures in the helium circulation of HTGR-10. In terms of energy-saving and design simplification of reactor’s primary loop, 90° elbow can be used to measure the helium flow and the content of water vapor, both of which are significant in an accident. It is necessary to make an in-depth research of the flow characteristics of helium flowing 90° elbow. Simulation results indicate that fluid’s motion in the elbow is under the control of the centrifugal forces. Static pressure near the extrados is higher than that near the intrados. Boundary layer separation occurs at the latter half intrados of the elbow. The vortex emerges during the separation process and increases the energy dissipation. Velocity in the near-intrados region is higher than that in the near-extrados region, which is opposite to the pressure distribution trend. Under the action of the centrifugal forces, the secondary flow emerges in the latter half of the elbow and complicates the flow field by generating two vortexes which rotate in a different direction.
Seed‐Mediated Growth of Gold Nanorods: Limits of Length to Diameter Ratio Control
Authors: Ward Christopher J. , Tronndorf Robert , Eustes Alicia S. , Auad Maria L. , Davis Edward W.
Published: April 2014

The effects of the seed reaction conditions on the two‐step seed‐mediated growth of gold nanorods and the effect of gold and reducing agent content in the growth solution were evaluated. Results indicate that the reaction conditions used to produce the seeds have a significant impact on the aspect ratio of the gold nanorods produced. Increasing the concentration of gold or the reaction temperature in the seed production step results in lower length to diameter (aspect ratio) gold rods. In addition, the amount of prepared seed added to the growth solution impacts the rod aspect ratio, with increasing amounts of seed reducing the aspect ratio. The effects of reducing agent, ascorbic acid (AA), and gold content of the growth solution on the aspect ratio of the produced rods are strongly interrelated. There exists a minimum ascorbic acid to gold concentration below which rods will not form; however, increasing the ratio above this minimum results in shorter rods being formed. Characterization of nanorod growth is performed by UV‐vis‐NIR spectrophotometry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Integration of Energy Harvester for Self-Powered Wireless Sensor Network Nodes
Authors: Chen Lijuan , Xu Xiaohui , Zeng Pingliang , Ma Jianqiang
Published: April 2014

This paper reports an energy harvester suitable for self-powered wireless sensor network (WSN) nodes consisting of a piezoelectric cantilever, an energy harvesting circuit, and a storage capacitor. Having the same size as a credit card, the proposed WSN nodes can be easily integrated into various applications, such as motor and air conditioning equipment. The WSN node is powered by an integrated bimorph piezoelectric generator that harvests energy from ambient vibration. The paper has developed a method to optimize the harvester parameters to attune it to the dominant vibration frequency. Tests carried out on the proposed harvester show that the proposed design can meet the energy requirements of a WSN node and achieve an efficiency of 79%.
Trajectory-Based Morphological Operators: A Model for Efficient Image Processing
Authors: Jimeno-Morenilla Antonio , Pujol Francisco A. , Molina-Carmona Rafael , Sánchez-Romero José L. , Pujol Mar
Published: April 2014

Mathematical morphology has been an area of intensive research over the last few years. Although many remarkable advances have been achieved throughout these years, there is still a great interest in accelerating morphological operations in order for them to be implemented in real-time systems. In this work, we present a new model for computing mathematical morphology operations, the so-called morphological trajectory model (MTM), in which a morphological filter will be divided into a sequence of basic operations. Then, a trajectory-based morphological operation (such as dilation, and erosion) is defined as the set of points resulting from the ordered application of the instant basic operations. The MTM approach allows working with different structuring elements, such as disks, and from the experiments, it can be extracted that our method is independent of the structuring element size and can be easily applied to industrial systems and high-resolution images.
An Improved Interacting Multiple Model Algorithm Used in Aircraft Tracking
Authors: Zhou Wei dong , Cai Jia nan , Sun Long , Shen Chen
Published: April 2014

There are some problems in traditional interacting multiple model algorithms (IMM) when used in target tracking systems. For instance, the mode transition matrix is inaccurate and cannot be determined when the sojourn times are not known. To solve these problems, an optimal mode transition matrix IMM (OMTM‐IMM) algorithm is proposed in this paper. The linear minimum variance theory is used to calculate the mode transition matrix which depends on the continuous system state rather than the sojourn times in this algorithm. Moreover, the correlation of the subfilter is considered; hence the covariance matrices are utilized to compute mode transition matrix. In this algorithm, the model probability is defined as a diagonal matrix which is combined with the filters outputs; thus the effects produced by each state can be distinguished. Finally, to verify the superiority of the new algorithm, the theoretical proof and simulation results are given. They show that the OMTM‐IMM algorithm can improve the tracking accuracy and can be utilized in the complex environment.
Password-Only Authenticated Three-Party Key Exchange with Provable Security in the Standard Model
Authors: Nam Junghyun , Choo Kim-Kwang Raymond , Kim Junghwan , Kang Hyun-Kyu , Kim Jinsoo , Paik Juryon , Won Dongho
Published: April 2014

Protocols for password-only authenticated key exchange (PAKE) in the three-party setting allow two clients registered with the same authentication server to derive a common secret key from their individual password shared with the server. Existing three-party PAKE protocols were proven secure under the assumption of the existence of random oracles or in a model that does not consider insider attacks. Therefore, these protocols may turn out to be insecure when the random oracle is instantiated with a particular hash function or an insider attack is mounted against the partner client. The contribution of this paper is to present the first three-party PAKE protocol whose security is proven without any idealized assumptions in a model that captures insider attacks. The proof model we use is a variant of the indistinguishability-based model of Bellare, Pointcheval, and Rogaway (2000), which is one of the most widely accepted models for security analysis of password-based key exchange protocols. We demonstrated that our protocol achieves not only the typical indistinguishability-based security of session keys but also the password security against undetectable online dictionary attacks.
Cloud Based Metalearning System for Predictive Modeling of Biomedical Data
Authors: Vukićević Milan , Radovanović Sandro , Milovanović Miloš , Minović Miroslav
Published: April 2014

Rapid growth and storage of biomedical data enabled many opportunities for predictive modeling and improvement of healthcare processes. On the other side analysis of such large amounts of data is a difficult and computationally intensive task for most existing data mining algorithms. This problem is addressed by proposing a cloud based system that integrates metalearning framework for ranking and selection of best predictive algorithms for data at hand and open source big data technologies for analysis of biomedical data.
Synthesis and Photocatalytic Activity of Magnetically Recoverable Core-Shell Nanoparticles
Authors: Peng Zhen , Tang Hua , Tang Yao , Yao Ke Fu , Shao Hong Hong
Published: April 2014

TiO2/SiO2/Fe3O4(TSF) core-shell nanoparticles with good photocatalytic activity that are capable of fast magnetic separation have been successfully prepared by chemical coprecipitation and two-step sol-gel process. The as-prepared TSF nanoparticles were calcined at high temperature in order to transform the amorphous titanium dioxide into a photoactive crystalline phase. The calcined nanoparticles are composed of a Fe3O4core with a strong response to external magnetic fields, a SiO2intermediary layer, and a TiO2outshell. Vibration sample magnetometer (VSM) analysis confirms the superparamagnetism of calcined nanoparticles, which can enhance the recoverable properties of the novel photocatalyst. When the TiO2/SiO2/Fe3O4core-shell nanoparticles are added to the crude oily wastewater, they exhibit high photocatalytic activity in the degradation of crude oily wastewater. The oil concentration could be reduced to lower than 30 ppm within 20 minutes for the case of initial oil concentration less than 350 ppm. It has been found that the TSF nanoparticles could be easily separated from the wastewater and withdrawn by using an external magnetic field. The recovered TSF nanoparticles possess high efficiency in the degradation of crude oily wastewater even after three times successive reuse. The present results indicate that TSF core-shell nanoparticles possess great application perspectives in the degradation of crude oily wastewater.
The Relationship between High Risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea and General and Central Obesity: Findings from a Sample of Chilean College Students
Authors: Wosu Adaeze C. , Vélez Juan Carlos , Barbosa Clarita , Andrade Asterio , Frye Megan , Chen Xiaoli , Gelaye Bizu , Williams Michelle A.
Published: April 2014

This cross-sectional study evaluates the prevalence and extent to which high risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with general obesity and central obesity among college students in Punta Arenas, Chile. Risk for OSA was assessed using the Berlin Questionnaire and trained research nurses measured anthropometric indices. Overweight was defined as body mass index (BMI) of 25–29.9 kg/m2 and general obesity was defined as BMI≥30 kg/m2. Central obesity was defined as waist circumference ≥90 centimeters (cm) for males and ≥80 cm for females. Multivariate logistic regression models were fit to obtain adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Prevalence of high risk for OSA, general obesity, and central obesity were 7.8%, 12.8%, and 42.7%, respectively. Students at high risk for OSA had greater odds of general obesity (OR 9.96; 95% CI: 4.42–22.45) and central obesity (OR 2.78; 95% CI 1.43–5.40). Findings support a strong positive association of high risk for OSA with obesity.
Nanostructural Colouration in Malaysian Plants: Lessons for Biomimetics and Biomaterials
Authors: Diah S. Zaleha M. , Karman Salmah B. , Gebeshuber Ille C.
Published: April 2014

Plant tissues include leaves, flower petals, and fruits. These can provide us with variety of design inspirations. Biomimetics allows us to learn from nature and transfer the knowledge we gain from studying sophisticated and amazing biological structures, materials and processes to engineering and the arts. The microstructures of morphology and anatomy of plant tissue have potential applications in technology through bioinspired design, which can mimic the properties found in nature or use them as inspiration for alternative applications. Many applications have been developed as a result of studying physical properties of plant tissues. Structural colours, for example, have been applied in the design of thin films both with regard to single or multilayer thin film interference, scattering, and diffraction gratings. Iridescent, metallic, or greyish colouration found naturally in plants is the result of physical structures or physical effects and not pigmentation. Phenotypical appearance of plants with structural colouration in tropical Malaysia is correlated with environmental parameters such as location (shady understory rainforest, sunny conditions) and altitude (highlands, lowlands). Various examples of bioinspired technical innovations with structural colours highlight the importance of inspiration by structural colours in living nature.
Exact Magnetothermoelastic Solution for a Hollow Sphere Subjected to Initial Stress, Rotation, and Magnetic Field
Authors: Abo-Dahab S. M. , Hussein Nahed S. , Al-Bokamy M.
Published: April 2014

We estimated an analytical solution of the displacement, stress, and temperature in a rotating isotropic homogeneous elastic medium hollow sphere subjected to periodic loading and magnetic field. The coupled theory of thermoelasticity is applied to determine an infinite velocity of heat propagation. The numerical calculations are carried out for the displacement, temperature, and stresses. The results obtained are displayed graphically to illustrate the effect of initial stress, rotation, and magnetic field which indicate to pronounce influence of rotation and magnetic field.
Conflicts of Interest during Contact Investigations: A Game-Theoretic Analysis
Authors: Sippl-Swezey Nicolas , Enanoria Wayne T. , Porco Travis C.
Published: April 2014

The goal of contact tracing is to reduce the likelihood of transmission, particularly to individuals who are at greatest risk for developing complications of infection, as well as identifying individuals who are in need of medical treatment of other interventions. In this paper, we develop a simple mathematical model of contact investigations among a small group of individuals and apply game theory to explore conflicts of interest that may arise in the context of perceived costs of disclosure. Using analytic Kolmogorov equations, we determine whether or not it is possible for individual incentives to drive noncooperation, even though cooperation would yield a better group outcome. We found that if all individuals have a cost of disclosure, then the optimal individual decision is to simply not disclose each other. With further analysis of (1) completely offsetting the costs of disclosure and (2) partially offsetting the costs of disclosure, we found that all individuals disclose all contacts, resulting in a smaller basic reproductive number and an alignment of individual and group optimality. More data are needed to understand decision making during outbreak investigations and what the real and perceived costs are.
Synthesis and Characterization of LPCVD Polysilicon and Silicon Nitride Thin Films for MEMS Applications
Authors: Sharma N. , Hooda M. , Sharma S. K.
Published: April 2014

Inherent residual stresses during material deposition can have profound effects on the functionality and reliability of fabricated MEMS devices. Residual stress often causes device failure due to curling, buckling, or fracture. Typically, the material properties of thin films used in surface micromachining are not very well controlled during deposition. The residual stress, for example, tends to vary significantly for different deposition conditions; experiments were carried out to study the polysilicon and silicon nitride deposited by Low Pressure Chemical Vapor Deposition (LPCVD) method at wide range of process conditions. High temperature annealing effects on stress in case polysilicon are also reported. The reduced residual stress levels can significantly improve device performance, reliability, and yield as MEMS devices become smaller.
Some Subordination Results onq-Analogue of Ruscheweyh Differential Operator
Authors: Aldweby Huda , Darus Maslina
Published: April 2014

We derive theq-analogue of the well-known Ruscheweyh differential operator using the concept ofq-derivative. Here, we investigate several interesting properties of thisq-operator by making use of the method of differential subordination.
Evaluation of Gait Performance of a Hemipelvectomy Amputation Walking with a Canadian Prosthesis
Authors: Karimi M. T. , Kamali M. , Omar H. , Mostmand Javid
Published: April 2014

Background.Hemipelvectomy amputation is a surgical procedure in which lower limb and a portion of pelvic are removed. There are a few studies in the literature regarding the performance of subjects with hip disarticulation during walking. However, there is no study on gait analysis of hemipelvectomy subject. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to evaluate the gait and stability of subject with hemipelvectomy amputation.Case Description and Methods.A subject with hemipelvectomy amputation at right side was involved in this study. He used a Canadian prosthesis with single axis ankle joint, 3R21 knee joint, and 7E7 hip joint for more than 10 years. The kinetic and kinematic parameters were collected by a motion analysis system and a Kistler force platform.Findings and Outcomes.There was a significant difference between knee, hip, and ankle range of motions and their moments in the sound and prosthesis sides. In the other side, the stability of the subject in the anteroposterior direction seems to be better than that in the mediolateral direction.Conclusions.There was a significant asymmetry between the kinetic and kinematic performance of the sound and prosthesis sides, which may be due to lack of muscular power and alignment of prosthesis components.
Minimizing ED Waiting Times and Improving Patient Flow and Experience of Care
Authors: Sayah Assaad , Rogers Loni , Devarajan Karthik , Kingsley-Rocker Lisa , Lobon Luis F.
Published: April 2014

We conducted a pre- and postintervention analysis to assess the impact of a process improvement project at the Cambridge Hospital ED. Through a comprehensive and collaborative process, we reengineered the emergency patient experience from arrival to departure. The ED operational changes have had a significant positive impact on all measured metrics. Ambulance diversion decreased from a mean of 148 hours per quarter before changes in July 2006 to 0 hours since April 2007. ED total length of stay decreased from a mean of 204 minutes before the changes to 132 minutes. Press Ganey patient satisfaction scores rose from the 12th percentile to the 59th percentile. ED patient volume grew by 11%, from a mean of 7,221 patients per quarter to 8,044 patients per quarter. Compliance with ED specific quality core measures improved from a mean of 71% to 97%. The mean rate of ED patients that left without being seen (LWBS) dropped from 4.1% to 0.9%. Improving ED operational efficiency allowed us to accommodate increasing volume while improving the quality of care and satisfaction of the ED patients with minimal additional resources, space, or staffing.
Rosiglitazone Did Not Induce Acute Kidney Injury in Normocholesterolemic Rats Despite Reduction in Glomerular Filtration Rate
Authors: Dias Cristiano , Volpini Rildo A. , Helou Claudia M.B.
Published: April 2014

Background/Aims: Rosiglitazone (RGL) has been used to ameliorate lipids homeostasis and also to treat inflammatory diseases. However, RGL may reduce renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) predisposing to acute kidney injury (AKI). We investigated whether the treatment with RGL induces AKI in normocholesterolemic (NC) and hypercholesterolemic (HC) rats. Methods: We measured GFR by inulin clearance technique and we quantified urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) in all groups at baseline and during Ang II-stimulated vasoconstriction. Moreover, we evaluated the presence of renal damaged by histologic examination. Results: At baseline, NC and HC had normal and similar GFR. RGL treatment reduced GFR only in NC+RGL. Unexpectedly, HC+RGL showed high levels of uNGAL although GFR was at normal range. During Ang II-stimulated vasoconstriction, all groups showed reduction in GFR to the same range and we found high levels of uNGAL and high score of renal damage in HC and HC+RGL. Conclusion: RGL acts distinctly in normocholesterolemia and in hypercholesterolemia. Reduction in GFR provoked by RGL treatment did not allow the diagnosis of AKI in NC even in the presence of ANG II-stimulated vasoconstriction. However, AKI was diagnosed in HC+RGL at baseline although GFR was within normal range.
The Efficacy of Antidepressants on Overall Well-Being and Self-Reported Depression Symptom Severity in Youth: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Spielmans Glen I. , Gerwig Katherine
Published: April 2014

Background: Recent meta-analyses of the efficacy of second-generation antidepressants for youth have concluded that such drugs possess a statistically significant advantage over placebo in terms of clinician-rated depressive symptoms. However, no meta-analysis has included measures of quality of life, global mental health, self-esteem, or autonomy. Further, prior meta-analyses have not included self-reports of depressive symptoms. Methods: Studies were selected through searching Medline, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials databases as well as GlaxoSmithKline's online trial registry. We included self-reports of depressive symptoms and pooled measures of quality of life, global mental health, self-esteem, and autonomous functioning as a proxy for overall well-being. Results: We found a nonsignificant difference between second-generation antidepressants and placebo in terms of self-reported depressive symptoms (k = 6 trials, g = 0.06, p = 0.36). Further, pooled across measures of quality of life, global mental health, self-esteem, and autonomy, antidepressants yielded no significant advantage over placebo (k = 3 trials, g = 0.11, p = 0.13). Discussion: Though limited by a small number of trials, our analyses suggest that antidepressants offer little to no benefit in improving overall well-being among depressed children and adolescents.
No Talking, Just Writing! Efficacy of an Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Herbst Nirmal , Voderholzer Ulrich , Thiel Nicola , Schaub Ronja , Knaevelsrud Christine , Stracke Silke , Hertenstein Elisabeth , Nissen Christoph , Külz Anne Katrin
Published: April 2014

Background: Many patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) do not receive first-line treatment according to the current guidelines (cognitive behavioral therapy with exposure and response prevention, CBT with ERP) due to barriers to treatment. Internet-based therapy is designed to overcome these barriers. The present study evaluates the efficacy of an Internet-based writing therapy with therapeutic interaction based on the concept of CBT with ERP for patients with OCD. Methods: Thirty-four volunteers with OCD according to DSM-IV-criteria were included in the trial and randomized according to a waiting-list control design with follow-up measures at 8 weeks and 6 months. The intervention consisted of 14 sessions, either starting directly after randomization or with an 8-week delay. Main outcome measure was the change in the severity of OCD symptoms (Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale Self-Rating, Y-BOCS SR, and Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised, OCI-R). Results: Obsessive-compulsive symptoms were significantly improved in the treatment group compared to the waiting-list control group with large effect sizes of Cohen's d = 0.82 (Y-BOCS SR) and d = 0.87 (OCI-R), using an intention-to-treat analysis. This effect remained stable at 6-month follow-up. Only 4 participants (12%) dropped out prematurely from the study. Of the 30 completers, 90% rated their condition as improved and would recommend the program to their friends. Conclusions: Internet-based writing therapy led to a significant improvement of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Even though replications with larger sample sizes are needed, the results support the notion that Internet-based approaches have the potential for improving the treatment situation for patients with OCD.
Storage-Induced Damage to Red Blood Cell Mechanical Properties Can Be Only Partially Reversed by Rejuvenation
Authors: Barshtein Gregory , Gural Alexander , Manny Noga , Zelig Orly , Yedgar Saul , Arbell Dan
Published: April 2014

Background: The storage of red blood cells (RBC) is associated with impairment of their properties that can induce a circulatory risk to recipients. In a preceding study (2009), we reported that post-storage rejuvenation (RJ) of stored RBC (St-RBC) efficiently reduced the storage-induced RBC/endothelial cell interaction, while only partially reversing the level of intracellular Ca2+, reactive oxygen species, and surface phosphatidylserine. In the present study, we examined the RJ effectiveness in repairing St-RBC mechanical properties. Methods: RBC, stored in CPDA-1 without pre-storage leukoreduction, were subjected to post-storage RJ, and the deformability, osmotic fragility (OF), and mechanical fragility (MF) of the rejuvenated St-RBC (St-RBCRj) were compared to those of untreated St-RBC and of freshly-collected RBC (F-RBC). Results: 5-week storage considerably increased OF and MF, and reduced the deformability of St-RBC. All alterations were only partially (40-70%) reversed by RJ, depending on the extent of the damage: the greater the damage, the lesser the relative effect of RJ. Conclusion: The findings of the present and preceding studies suggest that different St-RBC properties are differentially reversed by RJ, implying that some of the changes occur during storage and are irreversible.
The Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Sleep-Disordered Breathing in an Elderly Korean Population
Authors: Lee Sang Don , Kang Suk-Hoon , Ju Gawon , Han Ji Won , Kim Tae Hui , Lee Chung Suk , Kim Tae , Kim Ki Woong , Yoon In-Young
Published: April 2014

Background: There are just a few epidemiological studies on sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in the elderly, and the results are inconsistent. Study Objectives: We sought to investigate the prevalence of and risk factors for SDB in a representative elderly population with the use of attended nocturnal polysomnography (NPSG). Methods: Among 6,959 individuals aged ≥60 years living in Yongin City, Korea, 696 subjects were selected using random sampling. All the subjects were invited to visit a hospital for NPSG, and SDB was defined as an apnea-hypopnea index ≥15. Results: Of the 696 participants investigated, 348 participants completed the sleep study and clinical evaluation. SDB was observed in 127 of the 348 participants, and the prevalence of SDB was 36.5% (52.6% in males and 26.3% in females). A body mass index ≥25 was associated with SDB in both male and female subjects, particularly in males, whereas snoring was independently associated with SDB in female participants only. In male participants, SDB was a significant risk factor for hypertension (p = 0.025). Conclusions: SDB was found to be common among elderly Koreans, and it was more prevalent and severe in male than in female subjects. Health consequences of SDB in the elderly need to be further explored.
Awareness of Kidney Disease among US Adults: Findings from the 2011 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
Authors: Li Chaoyang , Wen Xiao-Jun , Pavkov Meda E. , Zhao Guixiang , Balluz Lina S. , Ford Earl S. , Williams Desmond , Gotway Carol A.
Published: April 2014

Background: The prevalence of chronic kidney disease as measured by biomarkers is increasing, but the recognition for this condition remains low in the USA. Little is known about the awareness of kidney disease at the state level. Methods: Data from 490,302 adults aged 18 years or older in all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia who participated in the 2011 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were analyzed. Kidney disease diagnosis, a measure of individual awareness, was ascertained by participants' self-report in the telephone survey. Prevalence ratios of self-reported kidney disease in subpopulations were estimated and tested using log-linear regression analyses with a robust variance estimator. Results: The unadjusted prevalence of self-reported kidney disease was estimated to be 2.5%. After adjustment for age and all other selected covariates, Hispanics had a higher prevalence than non-Hispanic whites (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.2, 95% CI 1.0-1.4). Persons who were unemployed (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.4, 95% CI 1.2-1.5) had a higher prevalence than those who were employed. Persons who had hypertension (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.9, 95% CI 1.7-2.1), diabetes (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.7, 95% CI 1.5-1.8), cardiovascular disease (coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction or stroke; adjusted prevalence ratio 1.5, 95% CI 1.4-1.6) or cancer (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.5, 95% CI 1.3-1.6) had a higher prevalence of self-reported kidney disease than those without these conditions. Conclusion: The overall awareness of kidney disease was low in the general population. Efforts are needed to promote the awareness and early detection of kidney disease in public health services and clinical practice.
European Recommendations for Primary Prevention of Congenital Anomalies: A Joined Effort of EUROCAT and EUROPLAN Projects to Facilitate Inclusion of This Topic in the National Rare Disease Plans
Authors: Taruscio Domenica , Arriola Larraitz , Baldi Francesca , Barisic Ingeborg , Bermejo-Sánchez Eva , Bianchi Fabrizio , Calzolari Elisa , Carbone Pietro , Curran Rhonda , Garne Ester , Gatt Miriam , Latos-Bieleńska Anna , Khoshnood Babak , Irgens Lorentz , Mantovani Alberto , Martínez-Frías Maria Luisa , Neville Amanda , Rißmann Anke , Ruggeri Stefania , Wellesley Diana , Dolk Helen
Published: April 2014

Congenital anomalies (CA) are the paradigm example of rare diseases liable to primary prevention actions due to the multifactorial etiology of many of them, involving a number of environmental factors together with genetic predispositions. Yet despite the preventive potential, lack of attention to an integrated preventive strategy has led to the prevalence of CA remaining relatively stable in recent decades. The 2 European projects, EUROCAT and EUROPLAN, have joined efforts to provide the first science-based and comprehensive set of recommendations for the primary prevention of CA in the European Union. The resulting EUROCAT-EUROPLAN ‘Recommendations on Policies to Be Considered for the Primary Prevention of Congenital Anomalies in National Plans and Strategies on Rare Diseases' were issued in 2012 and endorsed by EUCERD (European Union Committee of Experts on Rare Diseases) in 2013. The recommendations exploit interdisciplinary expertise encompassing drugs, diet, lifestyles, maternal health status, and the environment. The recommendations include evidence-based actions aimed at reducing risk factors and at increasing protective factors and behaviors at both individual and population level. Moreover, consideration is given to topics specifically related to CA (e.g. folate status, teratogens) as well as of broad public health impact (e.g. obesity, smoking) which call for specific attention to their relevance in the pre- and periconceptional period. The recommendations, reported entirely in this paper, are a comprehensive tool to implement primary prevention into national policies on rare diseases in Europe.