bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal Performance Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Floor Structure with Radiant Floor Heating System in Apartment Housing
Authors: Jeong Young-Sun , Jung Hae-Kwon
Published: October 2015

The use of the resilient materials in the radiant floor heating systems of reinforced concrete floor in apartment housing is closely related to the reduction of the floor impact sound and the heating energy loss. This study examined the thermal conductivity of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam used for the resilient material in South Korea and analysed the thermal transfer of reinforced concrete floor structure according to the thermal conductivity of the resilient materials. 82 EPS specimens were used to measure the thermal conductivity. The measured apparent density of EPS resilient materials ranged between 9.5 and 63.0 kg/m3, and the thermal conductivity ranged between 0.030 and 0.046 W/(m·K). As the density of resilient materials made of expanded polystyrene foam increases, the thermal conductivity tends to proportionately decrease. To set up reasonable thermal insulation requirements for radiant heating floor systems, the thermal properties of floor structure according to thermal insulation materials must be determined. Heat transfer simulations were performed to analyze the surface temperature, heat loss, and heat flow of floor structure with radiant heating system. As the thermal conductivity of EPS resilient material increased 1.6 times, the heat loss was of 3.4% increase.
Responses of Multipotent Retinal Stem Cells to IL-1β, IL-18, or IL-17
Authors: Chen Shida , Shen Defen , Popp Nicholas A. , Ogilvy Alexander J. , Tuo Jingsheng , Abu-Asab Mones , Xie Ting , Chan Chi-Chao
Published: October 2015

Purpose. To investigate how multipotent retinal stem cells (RSCs) isolated from mice respond to the proinflammatory signaling molecules, IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-17A.Materials and Methods. RSCs were cultured in a specific culture medium and were treated with these cytokines. Cell viability was detected by MTT assay; ultrastructure was evaluated by transmission electron microscopy; expression of IL-17rc and proapoptotic proteins was detected by immunocytochemistry and expression ofIl-6andIl-17awas detected by quantitative RT-PCR. As a comparison, primary mouse retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells were also treated with IL-1β, IL-18, or IL-17A and analyzed for the expression ofIl-6andIl-17rc.Results. Treatment with IL-1β, IL-18, or IL-17A decreased RSC viability in a dose-dependent fashion and led to damage in cellular ultrastructure including pyroptotic and/or necroptotic cells. IL-1βand IL-18 could induce proapoptotic protein expression. All treatments induced significantly higher expression ofIl-6andIl-17rcin both cells. However, neither IL-1βnor IL-18 could induceIl-17aexpression in RSCs.Conclusions. IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-17A induce retinal cell death via pyroptosis/necroptosis and apoptosis. They also provoke proinflammatory responses in RSCs. Though IL-1βand IL-18 could not induceIl-17aexpression in RSCs, they both increaseIl-17rcexpression, which may mediate the effect ofIl-17a.
The Gluon Sivers Distribution: Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Boer Daniël , Lorcé Cédric , Pisano Cristian , Zhou Jian
Published: October 2015

We review what is currently known about the gluon Sivers distribution and what are the opportunities to learn more about it. Because single transverse spin asymmetries inp↑p→πXprovide only indirect information about the gluon Sivers function through the relation with the quark-gluon and tri-gluon Qiu-Sterman functions, current data from hadronic collisions at RHIC have not yet been translated into a solid constraint on the gluon Sivers function. SIDIS data, including the COMPASS deuteron data, allow for a gluon Sivers contribution of natural size expected from largeNcarguments, which isO(1/Nc)times the nonsinglet quark Sivers contribution. Several very promising processes to measure the gluon Sivers effect directly have been suggested, which besides RHIC investigations, would strongly favor experiments at AFTER@LHC and a possible future Electron-Ion Collider. Due to the inherent process dependence of TMDs, the gluon Sivers TMD probed in the various processes are different linear combinations of two universal gluon Sivers functions that have different behavior under charge conjugation and that therefore satisfy different theoretical constraints. For this reason both hadronic and DIS type of collisions are essential in the study of the role of gluons in transversely polarized protons.
Effects of 5‐Amyno‐4‐(1,3‐benzothyazol‐2‐yn)‐1‐(3‐methoxyphenyl)‐1,2‐dihydro‐3H‐pyrrol‐3‐one Intake on Digestive System in a Rat Model of Colon Cancer
Authors: Kuznietsova Halyna M. , Luzhenetska Valentyna K. , Kotlyar Iryna P. , Rybalchenko Volodymyr K.
Published: October 2015

Introduction. Pyrrol derivate 5‐amyno‐4‐(1,3‐benzothyazol‐2‐yn)‐1‐(3‐methoxyphenyl)‐1,2‐dihydro‐3H‐pyrrol‐3‐one (D1) has shown antiproliferative activities in vitro, so investigation of the impact of D1 intake on gut organs in rats that experienced colon cancer seems to be necessary. Materials and Methods. D1 at the dose of 2.3 mg/kg was administered per os daily for 27 (from the 1st day of experiment) or 7 (from the 21st week of experiment) weeks to rats that experienced 1,2‐dimethylhydrazine (DMH)‐induced colon cancer for 20 weeks. 5‐Fluorouracil (5FU) was chosen as reference drug and was administered intraperitoneally weekly for 7 weeks (from the 21st week of experiment) at the dose of 45 mg/kg. Results. Antitumor activity of D1 comparable with the 5FU one against DMH‐induced colon cancer in rats was observed (decrease of tumor number and tumor total area up to 46%). D1 attenuated the inflammation of colon, gastric and jejunal mucosa, and the liver, caused by DMH, unlike 5FU, aggravating the latter. In addition, D1 partially normalized mucosa morphometric parameters suggesting its functional restore. Conclusions. D1 possesses, comparable with 5‐fluorouracil antitumor efficacy, less damaging effects on the tissues beyond cancerous areas and contributes to partial morphological and functional gut organs recovery.
FluKB: A Knowledge-Based System for Influenza Vaccine Target Discovery and Analysis of the Immunological Properties of Influenza Viruses
Authors: Simon Christian , Kudahl Ulrich J. , Sun Jing , Olsen Lars Rønn , Zhang Guang Lan , Reinherz Ellis L. , Brusic Vladimir
Published: October 2015

FluKB is a knowledge-based system focusing on data and analytical tools for influenza vaccine discovery. The main goal of FluKB is to provide access to curated influenza sequence and epitope data and enhance the analysis of influenza sequence diversity and the analysis of targets of immune responses. FluKB consists of more than 400,000 influenza protein sequences, known epitope data (357 verified T-cell epitopes, 685 HLA binders, and 16 naturally processed MHC ligands), and a collection of 28 influenza antibodies and their structurally defined B-cell epitopes. FluKB was built using a modular framework allowing the implementation of analytical workflows and includes standard search tools, such as keyword search and sequence similarity queries, as well as advanced tools for the analysis of sequence variability. The advanced analytical tools for vaccine discovery include visual mapping of T- and B-cell vaccine targets and assessment of neutralizing antibody coverage. FluKB supports the discovery of vaccine targets and the analysis of viral diversity and its implications for vaccine discovery as well as potential T-cell breadth and antibody cross neutralization involving multiple strains. FluKB is representation of a new generation of databases that integrates data, analytical tools, and analytical workflows that enable comprehensive analysis and automatic generation of analysis reports.
Short-Term Effects of Verapamil and Diltiazem in the Treatment of No Reflow Phenomenon: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Wang Lan , Cheng Zhong , Gu Ye , Peng Dingfeng
Published: October 2015

Currently, there is still a lack of an optimal treatment for no reflow phenomenon (NRP). We analyzed the efficacy and safety of using nondihydropyridine calcium channel antagonists (NDHP, verapamil/diltiazem) in patients suffering from NRP. Eight RCTs with 494 participants were eligible for analysis. The pooling analysis showed that intracoronary verapamil/diltiazem injection significantly decreased the occurrence of the coronary NRP (RR: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.16–0.57;P=0.0002) and reduced corrected thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) frame Count (WMD = −9.24, 95% CI −13.91–4.57;P=0.0001) in patients with NRP. Moreover, verapamil/diltiazem treatment showed superiority in reducing wall motion index (WMI) compared to the control at day 1 (WMD = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.02–0.20;P=0.02) (P<0.05). There was also a significantly greater decline at occurrence of the major adverse cardiac events between verapamil/diltiazem and control groups (WMD: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.19–0.84;P=0.02). However, using verapamil/diltiazem did not provide additional improvement of left ventricular ejection fraction post procedure (at 7 days, WMD, 0.1; 95% CI, −2.43–2.63;P=0.94; at 30 days, WMD, 0.42; 95% CI, −2.09–2.92;P=0.75). NDHP use is beneficial in attenuating NRP and reducing 6-month MACEs in patients with NRP.
Quantitative Determination of Germinability ofPuccinia striiformisf. sp.triticiUrediospores Using Near Infrared Spectroscopy Technology
Authors: Zhao Yaqiong , Qin Feng , Cheng Pei , Li Xiaolong , Ma Zhanhong , Zhao Longlian , Li Junhui , Wang Haiguang
Published: October 2015

Stripe rust caused byPuccinia striiformisf. sp.tritici(Pst) is an important disease on wheat. In this study, quantitative determination of germinability ofPsturediospores was investigated by using near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) combined with quantitative partial least squares (QPLS) and support vector regression (SVR). The near infrared spectra of the urediospore samples were acquired using FT-NIR MPA spectrometer and the germination rate of each sample was measured using traditional spore germination method. The best QPLS model was obtained with vector correction as the preprocessing method of the original spectra and 4000–12000 cm−1as the modeling spectral region while the modeling ratio of the training set to the testing set was 4 : 1. The best SVR model was built when vector normalization was used as the preprocessing method, the modeling ratio was 5 : 1 and the modeling spectral region was 8000–11000 cm−1. The results showed that the effect of the best model built using QPLS or SVR was satisfactory. This indicated that quantitative determination of germinability ofPsturediospores using near infrared spectroscopy technology is feasible. A new method based on NIRS was provided for rapid, automatic, and nondestructive determination of germinability ofPsturediospores.
Blackcurrant Suppresses Metabolic Syndrome Induced by High-Fructose Diet in Rats
Authors: Park Ji Hun , Kho Min Chul , Kim Hye Yoom , Ahn You Mee , Lee Yun Jung , Kang Dae Gill , Lee Ho Sub
Published: October 2015

Increased fructose ingestion has been linked to obesity, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and hypertension associated with metabolic syndrome. Blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum; BC) is a horticultural crop in Europe. To induce metabolic syndrome, Sprague-Dawley rats were fed 60% high-fructose diet. Treatment with BC (100 or 300 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks) significantly suppressed increased liver weight, epididymal fat weight, C-reactive protein (CRP), total bilirubin, leptin, and insulin in rats with induced metabolic syndrome. BC markedly prevented increased adipocyte size and hepatic triglyceride accumulation in rats with induced metabolic syndrome. BC suppressed oral glucose tolerance and protein expression of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) in muscle. BC significantly suppressed plasma total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL content. BC suppressed endothelial dysfunction by inducing downregulation of endothelin-1 and adhesion molecules in the aorta. Vascular relaxation of thoracic aortic rings by sodium nitroprusside and acetylcholine was improved by BC. The present study provides evidence of the potential protective effect of BC against metabolic syndrome by demonstrating improvements in dyslipidemia, hypertension, insulin resistance, and obesityin vivo.
Evaluation of Microcrystalline Chitosan and Fibrin Membranes as Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-BB Carriers with Amoxicillin
Authors: Bodek Kazimiera H. , Nowak Karolina M. , Kozakiewicz Marcin , Bodek Andrzej , Michalska Marta
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study was to describe the mechanical and sorption features of homogeneous and composite membranes which consist of microcrystalline chitosan (MCCh) and fibrin (Fb) in various proportions as well as thein vitrokinetics of platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) released from ten types of membranes in the presence or absence of amoxicillin (Am). The films were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, mechanical tests: breaking strength (Bs) and elongation at break (Eb), as well as SEM images, and swelling study. The influence of the form of samples (dry or wet) on Young’s modulus (E) was also examined. The homogeneous MCCh (M1) and composite M3 and M4 (MCCh : Fb = 2 : 1 and 1 : 1) membranes were characterized by good sorption properties and higher mechanical strength, when compared with Fb (M2) membrane. Connecting MCCh with Fb decreases release of PDGF-BB and increases release of Am. The most efficient release of PDGF-BB was observed in the case of M4 (the optimum MCCh : Fb ratio was 1 : 1) membrane. It was found that the degree of PDGF-BB release from the membrane is influenced by the physicochemical and mechanical characteristics of the films and by its affinity to growth factor PDGF-BB.
An Impact Vibration Experimental Research on the Pretension Rectangular Membrane Structure
Authors: Guo Jianjun , Zheng Zhoulian , Wu Song
Published: October 2015

The pretension of the membrane is applied with biaxial tension bracket; the digital dynamometer is used for measuring the change of the tension; the concentrated impact load is applied on the surface of rectangular membrane; the displacement change of each feature point on the membrane surface is measured by noncontact laser displacement sensor. Through this experiment, the vibration displacement-time curve of the rectangular membrane under the fixed boundary condition is obtained. Further, the vibration frequency is given, according to the power spectral density function. The results of the experimental research are used to verify and correct theoretical formula and make the foundation for further theoretical research.
Hepatic Tuberculosis Mimicking Biliary Cystadenoma: A Radiological Dilemma
Authors: Sharma Rajaram , Dey Amit Kumar , Mittal Kartik , Udmale Prasad , Singh Udai , Mitkar Sumit , Hira Priya
Published: October 2015

Primary involvement of liver in tuberculosis is a rare entity. It is difficult to diagnose in absence of previous history of tuberculosis or concurrent pulmonary involvement. It is usually misdiagnosed as neoplastic liver lesion, which misdirects the treatment protocol and delays proper treatment. Here we are presenting a case of 36-year-old male patient with vague right upper quadrant abdominal pain. All the laboratory values were within normal limits. Radiological investigations were in favor of biliary cystadenoma but final diagnosis was primary focal involvement of liver in tuberculosis which was histopathologically proven to be tuberculous granulomas on biopsy of the resected mass.
Human Serum Eye Drops in Eye Alterations: An Insight and a Critical Analysis
Authors: De Pascale Maria Rosaria , Lanza Michele , Sommese Linda , Napoli Claudio
Published: October 2015

Human serum contains a physiological plethora of bioactive elements naturally released by activated platelets which might have a significant effect on the regeneration of corneal layers by stimulating the cell growth. This mechanism supported the use of human serum eye drops in some ocular diseases associated with dystrophic changes and alterations of the tear film, such as persistent corneal epithelial defects and dry eye syndrome. We focused our effort on potential benefits and limitations of the use of human serum eye drops when conventional therapies failed. We reviewed the recent literature by reporting published studies from 2010 to 2014. Despite the limited evaluated study populations, most of the clinical studies have confirmed that serum eye drop therapy is effective in corneal healing by reducing ocular symptom, particularly during the short-term follow-up. In addition, three recent published studies have shown the efficacy of the serum eye drop therapy in comparison to traditional ones in intractable patients. Besides, reported ongoing clinical studies confirmed the open debate regarding the use of biologic tools for cornea regeneration. Results from these studies might open novel challenges and perspectives in the therapy of such refractory patients.
Long-Term Outcomes of Sacrococcygeal Germ Cell Tumors in Infancy and Childhood
Authors: Niramis Rangsan , Anuntkosol Maitree , Buranakitjaroen Veera , Tongsin Achariya , Mahatharadol Varaporn , Poocharoen Wannisa , La-orwong Suranetr , Tiansri Kulsiri
Published: October 2015

Purpose. The aim of this study was to evaluate long-term outcomes of sacrococcygeal germ cell tumors (SC-GCTs) over a 15-year period.Materials and Methods. A retrospective review was conducted of all pediatric patients treated for SC-GCTs at our hospital from 1998 to 2012.Results. Fifty-seven patients were treated for SC-GCTs with the most common in Altman’s classification type I. Age at surgery ranged from one day to 5.6 years. Tumor resection and coccygectomy were primarily performed in about 84% of the cases. Pathology revealed mature, immature, malignant sacrococcygeal teratomas (SCTs), and endodermal sinus tumors (ESTs) in 41 (72%), 4 (77%), 6 (10.5%), and 6 (10.5%), respectively. Recurrence of discase occurred in 3 of 41 patients with mature teratomas (7.3%); 2 recurrences with mature teratomas and one recurrence with EST. Five of 6 malignant SCTs and 3 of 6 ESTs responded well to the treatment. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was elevated in both malignant teratomas and ESTs. No immediate patient death was noted in any of the 57 cases, but 4 patients with malignant tumors and distant metastasis succumbed at home within 2 years of the initial treatment.Conclusion. Benign SCTs have a significant recurrence rate of approximately 7%. Close follow-up with serial AFP level monitoring should be done for 5 years after initial tumor resection and coccygectomy. The survival rate for malignant SC-GCTs with distant metastasis was unfavorable in the present study.
A Review on the Efficiency of Graphene‐Based BHJ Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Manzano-Ramírez Alejandro , López-Naranjo Edgar J. , Soboyejo Wole , Meas-Vong Yunny , Vilquin Bertrand
Published: October 2015

Graphene, a material composed of one‐atom‐thick planar sheets of sp2‐bonded carbon atoms with a two‐dimensional honeycomb structure, has been proposed for many applications due to its remarkable electronic, optical, thermal, and mechanical properties. Its high transparency, conductivity, flexibility, and abundance make it an excellent material to be applied in the field of organic photovoltaic cells, especially as a replacement for transparent conducting oxide electrodes. However, graphene has been demonstrated to be useful not only as substitute for indium tin oxide electrodes, but also as cathode, electron acceptor, hole transport, and electron extraction material. Thus, in this work, we summarize and discuss the efficiency of bulk heterojunction devices using graphene as a main constituent.
The Influences of Iron Ore Tailings as Fine Aggregate on the Strength of Ultra-High Performance Concrete
Authors: Zhu Zhigang , Li Beixing , Zhou Mingkai
Published: October 2015

The present study looks for the feasibility of preparing UHPC with iron ore tailings (IOT for short) as fine aggregate. To enhance outstanding high performances, some influences on UHPC mortars were investigated such as different kinds of sands, different mix ratio of sands, and different largest particle size of fine aggregate. The results show that IOT have negligible poorer aggregate performance than silica sands but better than river sands. The strength of UHPC reaches the highest point when silica sands were instead 60% by IOT. As the largest particle size of fine aggregate is decreasing, the strength and frost resistance of UHPC were improved, but the liquidity was decreased. Micropowder of IOT affects the strength and the optimal content was 4%.
Numerical Investigation on Stress Concentration of Tension Steel Bars with One or Two Corrosion Pits
Authors: Hou Jian , Song Li
Published: October 2015

Pitting corrosion has been observed in steel bars of existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures in different erosion environments and has been identified as a potential origin for fatigue crack nucleation. In the present study, under uniaxial tension loading, stress distribution in the steel bars with one or two semiellipsoidal corrosion pits has systematically been investigated by conducting a series of three-dimensional semiellipsoidal pitted models. Based on the finite element analyses, it is shown that stress concentration factor (SCF) increases linearly with increasing pit aspect ratio (a/b) and increases nonlinearly with increasing pit relative depth (a/R) for single corrosion pit problem. For double corrosion pits problem, the SCF decreases nonlinearly with increasing angle of two transverse pits (θ). The interaction of two longitudinal pits can be ignored in the calculation of SCF even if the distance of two pits (d) is very small.
The Effects of Bikram Yoga on Health: Critical Review and Clinical Trial Recommendations
Authors: Hewett Zoe L. , Cheema Birinder S. , Pumpa Kate L. , Smith Caroline A.
Published: October 2015

Bikram yoga is a style ofhathayoga involving a standarized series ofasanasperformed to an instructional dialogue in a heated environment (40.6°C, 40% humidity). Several studies evaluating the effect of Bikram yoga on health-related outcomes have been published over the past decade. However, to date, there are no comprehensive reviews of this research and there remains a lack of large-scale, robustly-designed randomised controlled trials (RCT) of Bikram yoga training. The purpose of this review is to contextualise and summarise trials that have evaluated the effects of Bikram yoga on health and to provide recommendations for future research. According to published literature, Bikram yoga has been shown to improve lower body strength, lower and upper body range of motion, and balance in healthy adults. Non-RCTs report that Bikram yoga may, in some populations, improve glucose tolerance, bone mineral density, blood lipid profile, arterial stiffness, mindfulness, and perceived stress. There is vast potential for further, improved research into the effects of Bikram yoga, particularly in unhealthy populations, to better understand intervention-related adaptations and their influence on the progression of chronic disease. Future research should adhere to CONSORT guidelines for better design and reporting to improve research quality in this field.
Acute-Onset Vitreous Hemorrhage of Unknown Origin before Vitrectomy: Causes and Prognosis
Authors: Kim Dong Yoon , Joe Soo Geun , Baek Seunghee , Kim June-Gone , Yoon Young Hee , Lee Joo Yong
Published: October 2015

Purpose. To analyze causes and prognosis of acute-onset preoperatively unknown origin vitreous hemorrhage (VH).Methods. This study included patients who underwent vitrectomy for acute-onset preoperatively unknown origin VH. The underlying causes of VH, which were identified after vitrectomy, were analyzed. And overall visual prognosis of unknown origin VH was analyzed. Risk scoring system was developed to predict visual prognosis after vitrectomy.Results. 169 eyes were included. Among these, retinal vein occlusion (RVO), retinal break, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) were identified in 74 (43.8%), 50 (29.6%), and 21 (12.4%) patients, respectively. After vitrectomy, logMAR BCVA significantly improved from1.93±0.59to0.47±0.71. However, postoperative BCVA in AMD eyes were significantly poorer than others. Poor visual prognosis after vitrectomy was associated with old age, poor preoperative vision in both eyes, and drusen in the fellow eye.Conclusions. RVO, retinal break, and AMD are the most common causes of acute-onset preoperatively unknown origin VH and the most common causes of VH change with age. The visual prognosis of unknown origin VH is relatively good, except among AMD patients. Older patients with poor preoperative BCVA in both eyes and patients with AMD in the fellow eye are at a higher risk of poor visual prognosis following vitrectomy.
Lutein Leads to a Decrease of Factor D Secretion by Cultured Mature Human Adipocytes
Authors: Tian Yuan , Kijlstra Aize , Renes Johan , Wabitsch Martin , Webers Carroll A. B. , Berendschot Tos T. J. M.
Published: October 2015

Purpose. Complement plays an important role in the pathogenesis of age related macular degeneration (AMD) and trials are currently being conducted to investigate the effect of complement inhibition on AMD progression. We previously found that the plasma level of factor D (FD), which is the rate limiting enzyme of the complement alternative pathway, was significantly decreased following lutein supplementation. FD is synthesized by adipose tissue, which is also the main storage site of lutein. In view of these findings we tested the hypothesis whether lutein could affect FD synthesis by adipocytes.Methods. A cell line of mature human adipocytes was incubated with 50 μg/mL lutein for 24 and 48 h, whereafter FD mRNA and protein expression were measured.Results. Lutein significantly inhibited adipocyte FD mRNA expression and FD protein release into adipocyte culture supernatants.Conclusions. Our earlier observations showing that a daily lutein supplement in individuals with early signs of AMD lowered the level of circulating FD might be caused by blocking adipocyte FD production.
Wideband Dual-Element Antenna Array for MIMO Mobile Phone Applications
Authors: Wang Yuanqiang , Yang Jie , Hao Shangfu , Zhang Xiao
Published: October 2015

A printed dual-element antenna array for LTE MIMO mobile phone applications is presented in this paper. The two array elements are symmetrically placed with the same dimensions, and each of the them consists of a novel driven strip and a wandering shorting strip. The driven strip is a whole loop, which improves the impedance matching for the upper band. Therefore, the bandwidth coverage is expanded and the antenna size is minimized at the same time. In addition, thanks to the protruded ground on the ground plane, the antenna isolation between the two array elements is significantly enhanced. The proposed planar antenna array successfully covers the seven operating bands of GSM850/900/1800/1900/UMTS2100/LTE2300/2500, and the isolation is more than 10 dB. The prototype was fabricated and tested, withSparameters, efficiency, radiation patterns, envelop correlation coefficient (ECC), and ergodic capacity presented. From the measured results, it is indicated that the antenna array has excellent and reliable performances when it is applied in MIMO applications.
Impaired Fas-Fas Ligand Interactions Result in Greater Recurrent Herpetic Stromal Keratitis in Mice
Authors: Yin Xiao-Tang , Keadle Tammie L. , Hard Jessicah , Herndon John , Potter Chloe A. , Del Rosso Chelsea R. , Ferguson Thomas A. , Stuart Patrick M.
Published: October 2015

Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) infection of the cornea leads to a potentially blinding condition termed herpetic stromal keratitis (HSK). Clinical studies have indicated that disease is primarily associated with recurrent HSK following reactivation of a latent viral infection of the trigeminal ganglia. One of the key factors that limit inflammation of the cornea is the expression of Fas ligand (FasL). We demonstrate that infection of the cornea with HSV-1 results in increased functional expression of FasL and that mice expressing mutations in Fas (lpr) and FasL (gld) display increased recurrent HSK following reactivation compared to wild-type mice. Furthermore, bothgldandlprmice took longer to clear their corneas of infectious virus and the reactivation rate for these strains was significantly greater than that seen with wild-type mice. Collectively, these findings indicate that the interaction of Fas with FasL in the cornea restricts the development of recurrent HSK.
Evolution of Satellite Communication Antennas on Mobile Ground Terminals
Authors: Zhou Haifeng , Jong Mingchinq , Lo Guoqiang
Published: October 2015

Getting connected whenever and wherever you travel is not kind of luxury any more. Satellite communication researchers are making it a reality to bring you data, video, and voice services when you are away from home, out of office, or on a long journey. Satellite communication antenna mounted on mobile ground terminals is an essential prerequisite of successful connectivity. In this paper, we review the evolution of this kind of antenna in its historical context and outline the major research achievements on ground mobile terminals. Many striking demonstrations and prototypes are revisited to understand the emerging technologies and assess their potential towards practical implementations. The future trends and challenges are also discussed.
To Enhance the Fire Resistance Performance of High-Speed Steel Roller Door with Water Film System
Authors: Chung De-Hua , Wang Tien-Chih , Tsai Ming-Ju , Lin Ta-Hui , Lee Shin-Ku
Published: October 2015

The structure of high-speed roller door with water film has improved in this study. The flameproof water film system is equipped with a water circulating device to reduce the water consumption of water film system. The water film is generated at the roller box of the high-speed roller door in this study. The heating test is done with the full-scale heating furnace. Both cases of the water film on unexposed surface and water film on exposed surface passed the fire resistance test based on ISO 834, proving that the high-speed roller door with water film system has 120A fire resistance period. The main findings indicate that the water film on exposed surface shows that as the amount of water film evaporated by high temperature inside the furnace must be greater than the evaporation capacity of water film on unexposed surface, the required water supply is 660 L more than the water film on unexposed surface.
Inverse Emulsion Polymerization for the Synthesis of High Molecular Weight Polyacrylamide and Its Application as Sand Stabilizer
Authors: Mohsin Mahmoud A. , Attia Nuha F.
Published: October 2015

Polyacrylamides constitute a class of polymers that can entirely dissolve or swell in water to form a solution or hydrogel, respectively. Free radical polymerization of acrylamide monomer, using both solution and inverse emulsion polymerization, was applied to produce polyacrylamide with various molecular weights. This investigation was focused on the production of polymers with varying molecular weight, depending on monomer to initiator ratio. Experimental conditions were designed to produce high molecular weight polymers that can be used in stabilization of sand dunes in the arid regions. Synthesized polyacrylamide samples were characterized using Gel Permeation Chromatography and solution viscosity in order to determine the molecular weights and molecular weights distribution. The rheological behavior was also investigated in different polymer concentrations and at various temperatures using Brookfield Rheometer. Lab-scale wind tunnel was used to determine the stability of the sand before and after treatment with the polymer. Compressive stress-strain test was also used to establish the mechanical behavior of the polymer-sand composite under controlled compressive load up to failure. The results showed that the use of high molecular weight polymer gave excellent mechanical and thermal stability.
The Prevalence of Skilled Birth Attendant Utilization and Its Correlates in North West Ethiopia
Authors: Alemayehu Mulunesh , Mekonnen Wubegzier
Published: October 2015

The low utilization of skilled birth attendants sustained high maternal mortality. The aim of this study was to assess its magnitude and correlates in Northwest Ethiopia. A study was conducted on 373 randomly selected women who gave birth in the 12 months preceding the survey. Correlates were identified using binary logistic regression. Skilled birth attendance was 18.8%. Inability to perform cultural practices in health facilities (65.5%), expecting smooth delivery (63.4%), and far distance (62%) were the main barriers. Women with urban residence (AOR = 5.46: 95% CI[2.21–13.49]), primary (AOR = 2.10: 95% CI[0.71–6.16]) and secondary-plus (AOR = 6.12:[1.39–26.92]) educational level, four-plus ANC visits (AOR = 17.33: 95% CI[4.22–71.29]), and proximity to health centers (AOR = 5.67: 95% CI[1.47–25.67]) had higher odds of using skilled birth attendants though women with no labor complications had lower odds (AOR = 0.02: 95% CI[0.01–0.05]). Skilled birth attendance use was low. Urban residence, primary-plus level of education, frequent ANC visits, living nearby the health centers, and a problem during labor were positively correlated with skilled birth attendance utilization. Stakeholders should enhance girls’ education beyond primary level and ANC services and shorten distances to health facilities.
A Numerical Method for Solving Fractional Differential Equations by Using Neural Network
Authors: Qu Haidong , Liu Xuan
Published: October 2015

We present a new method for solving the fractional differential equations of initial value problems by using neural networks which are constructed from cosine basis functions with adjustable parameters. By training the neural networks repeatedly the numerical solutions for the fractional differential equations were obtained. Moreover, the technique is still applicable for the coupled differential equations of fractional order. The computer graphics and numerical solutions show that the proposed method is very effective.
Antishadowing Effect on Charmonium Production at a Fixed-Target Experiment Using LHC Beams
Authors: Zhou Kai , Chen Zhengyu , Zhuang Pengfei
Published: October 2015

We investigate charmonium production in Pb + Pb collisions at LHC beam energyElab=2.76A TeV at fixed-target experiment (sNN= 72 GeV). In the frame of a transport approach including cold and hot nuclear matter effects on charmonium evolution, we focus on the antishadowing effect on the nuclear modification factorsRAAandrAAfor theJ/ψyield and transverse momentum. The yield is more suppressed at less forward rapidity (ylab≃2) than that at very forward rapidity (ylab≃4) due to the shadowing and antishadowing in different rapidity bins.
Synthesis of Carbon Encapsulated Mono‐ and Multi‐Iron Nanoparticles
Authors: Sanaee M. Reza , Bertran Enric
Published: October 2015

Core–shell nanostructures of carbon encapsulated iron nanoparticles (CEINPs) show unique properties and technological applications, because carbon shell provides extreme chemical stability and protects pure iron core against oxidation without impairing the possibility of functionalization of the carbon surface. Enhancing iron core magnetic properties and, in parallel, improving carbon shell sealing are the two major challenges in the synthesis of CEINPs. Here, we present the synthesis of both CEINPs and a new carbon encapsulated multi‐iron nanoparticle by a new modified arc discharge reactor. The nanoparticle size, composition, and crystallinity and the magnetic properties have been studied. The morphological properties were observed by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. In order to evaluate carbon shell protection, the iron cores were characterized by selected area diffraction and fast Fourier transform techniques as well as by electron energy loss and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopies. Afterward, the magnetic properties were investigated using a superconducting quantum interference device. As main results, spherical, oval, and multi‐iron cores were controllably synthesized by this new modified arc discharge method. The carbon shell with high crystallinity exhibited sufficient protection against oxidation of pure iron cores. The presented results also provided new elements for understanding the growth mechanism of iron core and carbon shell.
Image Watermark Based on Extended Shearlet and Insertion Using the Largest Information Entropy on Horizontal Cone
Authors: Jian Zhao , Meiling Sun , Jian Jia , Luxi Huang , Fan Han , Shan Liu
Published: October 2015

Extended discrete shearlet provides a directional multiresolution decomposition. It has been mathematically shown that extended discrete shearlet is a more efficient representation for the signals containing distributed discontinuities such as edges, compared to discrete wavelet. Multiresolution analyses such as curvelet and ridgelet share similar properties, yet their directional representations are significantly different from that of extended discrete shearlet. Taking advantage of the unique properties of directional representation of extended discrete shearlet, we develop an image watermark algorithm based on the largest information entropy. In proposed algorithm, firstly, 1-level extended discrete shearlet transform decomposes the test image into directional components on horizontal cone; each directional component reflects directional features and textured features differently. Next, the directional component whose information entropy is the highest is selected to carry watermark. Compared with related algorithms based on DWT and DCT, the proposed algorithm tends to obtain preferable invisibility when it is robust against common attacks.
Interval Entropy of Fuzzy Sets and the Application to Fuzzy Multiple Attribute Decision Making
Authors: Shi Yiying , Yuan Xuehai
Published: October 2015

A series of new concepts including interval entropy, interval similarity measure, interval distance measure, and interval inclusion measure of fuzzy sets are introduced. Meanwhile, some theorems and corollaries are proposed to show how these definitions can be deduced from each other. And then, based on interval entropy, a fuzzy multiple attribute decision making (FMADM) model is set up. In this model, interval entropy is used as the weight, by which the evaluation values of all alternatives can be obtained. Then all alternatives with respect to each criterion can be ranked as the order of the evaluation values. At last, a practical example is given to illustrate an application of the developed model and a comparative analysis is made.
Autoimmune Conditions in 235 Hemochromatosis Probands withHFEC282Y Homozygosity and Their First-Degree Relatives
Authors: Barton James C. , Barton J. Clayborn
Published: October 2015

We performed a retrospective study of autoimmune conditions (ACs) in 235 hemochromatosis probands at diagnosis by analyzing age, sex, ACs, history of first-degree family members with ACs (FH), diabetes, heavy ethanol consumption, elevated serum ALT/AST, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, iron removed to achieve iron depletion (QFe), and positivity for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypesA∗01,B∗08;A∗02,B∗44;A∗03,B∗07;A∗03,B∗14; andA∗29,B∗44. There were 138 men (58.7%). Median followup was 19.6 y. One or more of 19 ACs were diagnosed in each of 35 probands (14.9%). Prevalences of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis were 8.1% (95% CI: [5.1, 12.5]), 1.7% [0.6, 4.6], and 0.0085 [0.0015, 0.0337], respectively. Eighteen probands (7.7%) had a FH. Eight probands with ACs had 9 family members with ACs. In a logistic regression, ACs were less likely in men (odds ratio (OR) 0.3 [0.1, 0.6]) and more likely in probands with a FH (OR 4.1 [1.4, 11.8]). Overall ACs risk was not significantly associated with QFe or HLA haplotypes. Estimated survival of probands with and without ACs did not differ significantly. We conclude that ACs are common in hemochromatosis probands, especially women and probands with a FH.
Metrology Needs for Predicting Concrete Pumpability
Authors: Choi Myoungsung , Ferraris Chiara F. , Martys Nicos S. , Lootens Didier , Bui Van K. , Hamilton H. R. Trey
Published: October 2015

With the increasing use of pumping to place concrete, the development and refinement of the industry practice to ensure successful concrete pumping are becoming important needs for the concrete construction industry. To date, research on concrete pumping has been largely limited to a few theses and research papers. The major obstacle to conduct research on concrete pumping is that it requires heavy equipment and large amounts of materials. Thus, developing realistic and simple measurement techniques and prediction tools is a financial and logistical challenge that is out of reach for small research labs and many private companies in the concrete construction industry. Moreover, because concrete pumping involves the flow of a complex fluid under pressure in a pipe, predicting its flow necessitates detailed knowledge of the rheological properties of concrete, which requires new measurement science. This paper summarizes the technical challenges associated with concrete pumping and the development in concrete pumping that have been published in the technical literature and identifies future research needed for the industry to develop best practices for ensuring successful concrete pumping in the field.
Effects of rhBMP-2 on Sandblasted and Acid Etched Titanium Implant Surfaces on Bone Regeneration and Osseointegration: Spilt-Mouth Designed Pilot Study
Authors: Kim Nam-Ho , Lee So-Hyoun , Ryu Jae-Jun , Choi Kyung-Hee , Huh Jung-Bo
Published: October 2015

This study was conducted to evaluate effects of rhBMP-2 applied at different concentrations to sandblasted and acid etched (SLA) implants on osseointegration and bone regeneration in a bone defect of beagle dogs as pilot study using split-mouth design.Methods. For experimental groups, SLA implants were coated with different concentrations of rhBMP-2 (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/mL). After assessment of surface characteristics and rhBMP-2 releasing profile, the experimental groups and untreated control groups (n= 6 in each group, two animals in each group) were placed in split-mouth designed animal models with buccal open defect. At 8 weeks after implant placement, implant stability quotients (ISQ) values were recorded and vertical bone height (VBH, mm), bone-to-implant contact ratio (BIC, %), and bone volume (BV, %) in the upper 3 mm defect areas were measured.Results. The ISQ values were highest in the 1.0 group. Mean values of VBH (mm), BIC (%), and BV (%) were greater in the 0.5 mg/mL and 1.0 mg/mL groups than those in 0.1 and control groups in buccal defect areas.Conclusion. In the open defect area surrounding the SLA implant, coating with 0.5 and 1.0 mg/mL concentrations of rhBMP-2 was more effective, compared with untreated group, in promoting bone regeneration and osseointegration.
The Relationship between Neighborhood Immigrant Composition, Limited English Proficiency, and Late-Stage Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis in California
Authors: Mojica Cynthia M. , Glenn Beth A. , Chang Cindy , Bastani Roshan
Published: October 2015

Despite the availability of effective early detection technologies, more than half (61%) of colorectal cancers in the United States and 55% in California are identified at an advanced stage. Data on colorectal cancer patients (N=35,030) diagnosed from 2005 to 2007 were obtained from the California Cancer Registry. Multivariate analyses found a relationship among neighborhood concentration of recent immigrants, neighborhood rates of limited English proficiency, and late-stage colorectal cancer diagnosis. Hispanics living in neighborhoods with a greater percentage of recent immigrants (compared to the lowest percentage) had greater odds (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.22, 2.02) of late-stage diagnosis whereas Hispanics living in neighborhoods with the highest percentage of limited English proficiency (compared to the lowest percentage) had lower odds (OR .71, 95% CI .51, .99) of late-stage diagnosis. These relationships were not observed for other ethnic groups. Results highlight the complex relationship among race/ethnicity, neighborhood characteristics, and colorectal cancer stage at diagnosis.
Green’s Function for a Slice of the Korányi Ball in the Heisenberg GroupHn
Authors: Dubey Shivani , Kumar Ajay , Mishra Mukund Madhav
Published: October 2015

We give a representation formula for solution of the inhomogeneous Dirichlet problem on the upper half Korányi ball and for the slice of the Korányi ball in the Heisenberg groupHnby obtaining explicit expressions of Green-like kernel when the given data has certain radial symmetry.
Identifying New Candidate Genes and Chemicals Related to Prostate Cancer Using a Hybrid Network and Shortest Path Approach
Authors: Yuan Fei , Zhou You , Wang Meng , Yang Jing , Wu Kai , Lu Changhong , Kong Xiangyin , Cai Yu-Dong
Published: October 2015

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the male prostate, a gland in the male reproductive system. Because prostate cancer cells may spread to other parts of the body and can influence human reproduction, understanding the mechanisms underlying this disease is critical for designing effective treatments. The identification of as many genes and chemicals related to prostate cancer as possible will enhance our understanding of this disease. In this study, we proposed a computational method to identify new candidate genes and chemicals based on currently known genes and chemicals related to prostate cancer by applying a shortest path approach in a hybrid network. The hybrid network was constructed according to information concerning chemical-chemical interactions, chemical-protein interactions, and protein-protein interactions. Many of the obtained genes and chemicals are associated with prostate cancer.
A Gas Target Internal to the LHC for the Study of pp Single-Spin Asymmetries and Heavy Ion Collisions
Authors: Barschel Colin , Lenisa Paolo , Nass Alexander , Steffens Erhard
Published: October 2015

We discuss the application of an open storage cell as gas target for a proposed LHC fixed-target experiment AFTER@LHC. The target provides a high areal density at minimum gas input, which may be polarized1H,2H, or3He gas or heavy inert gases in a wide mass range. For the study of single-spin asymmetries in pp interaction, luminosities of nearly 1033/cm2 s can be produced with existing techniques.