bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Object Detection Based on Fast/Faster RCNN Employing Fully Convolutional Architectures
Authors: Ren Yun , Zhu Changren , Xiao Shunping
Published: January 2018

Modern object detectors always include two major parts: a feature extractor and a feature classifier as same as traditional object detectors. The deeper and wider convolutional architectures are adopted as the feature extractor at present. However, many notable object detection systems such as Fast/Faster RCNN only consider simple fully connected layers as the feature classifier. In this paper, we declare that it is beneficial for the detection performance to elaboratively design deep convolutional networks (ConvNets) of various depths for feature classification, especially using the fully convolutional architectures. In addition, this paper also demonstrates how to employ the fully convolutional architectures in the Fast/Faster RCNN. Experimental results show that a classifier based on convolutional layer is more effective for object detection than that based on fully connected layer and that the better detection performance can be achieved by employing deeper ConvNets as the feature classifier.
Determination of Heating Value of Estonian Oil Shale by Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Aints M. , Paris P. , Laan M. , Piip K. , Riisalu H. , Tufail I.
Published: January 2018

The laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) combined with multivariate regression analysis of measured data were utilised for determination of the heating value and the chemical composition of pellets made from Estonian oil shale samples with different heating values. The study is the first where the oil shale heating value is determined on the basis of LIBS spectra. The method for selecting the optimal number of spectral lines for ordinary multivariate least squares regression model is presented. The correlation coefficient between the heating value predicted by the regression model, and that measured by calorimetric bomb, was R2=0.98. The standard deviation of prediction was 0.24 MJ/kg. Concentrations of oil shale components predicted by the regression model were compared with those measured by ordinary methods.
Fuzzy Fixed Point Results For Φ Contractive Mapping with Applications
Authors: Humaira  , Sarwar Muhammad , Kishore G. N. V.
Published: January 2018

In this paper, using rational type contractions, common fuzzy fixed point result for Φ contractive mappings involving control functions as coefficients of contractions in the setting of complex‐valued metric space is established. The derived results generalizes some result in the existing literature. To show the validity of the derived results an appropriate example and applications are also discussed.
Target Tracking via Particle Filter and Convolutional Network
Authors: Chu Hongxia , Wang Kejun , Xing Xianglei
Published: January 2018

We propose a more effective tracking algorithm which can work robustly in a complex scene such as illumination, appearance change, and partial occlusion. The algorithm is based on an improved particle filter which used the efficient design of observation model. Predefined convolutional filters are used to extract the high-order features. The global representation is generated by combining local features without changing their structures and space arrangements. It not only increases the feature invariance, but also maintains the specificity. The extracted feature from convolution network is introduced into particle filter algorithm. The observation model is constructed by fusing the color feature of the target and a set of features from templates which are extracted by convolutional networks without training in our paper. It is fused with the features extracted from convolutional network for tracking. In the process of tracking, the template is updated in real time, and then the robustness of the algorithm is improved. Experiments show that the algorithm can achieve an ideal tracking effect when the targets are in a complex environment.
Fatty Images of the Heart: Spectrum of Normal and Pathological Findings by Computed Tomography and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Cannavale Giuseppe , Francone Marco , Galea Nicola , Vullo Francesco , Molisso Antonio , Carbone Iacopo , Catalano Carlo
Published: January 2018

Ectopic cardiac fatty images are not rarely detected incidentally by computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance, or by exams focused on the heart as in general thoracic imaging evaluations. A correct interpretation of these findings is essential in order to recognize their normal or pathological meaning, focusing on the eventually associated clinical implications. The development of techniques such as computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance allowed a detailed detection and evaluation of adipose tissue within the heart. This pictorial review illustrates the most common characteristics of cardiac fatty images by computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance, in a spectrum of normal and pathological conditions ranging from physiological adipose images to diseases presenting with cardiac fatty foci. Physiologic intramyocardial adipose tissue may normally be present in healthy adults, being not related to cardiac affections and without any clinical consequence. However cardiac fatty images may also be the expression of various diseases, comprehending arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia, postmyocardial infarction lipomatous metaplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy, and lipomatous hypertrophy of the interatrial septum. Fatty neoplasms of the heart as lipoma and liposarcoma are also described.
Next-Generation Sequencing Approaches in Genome-Wide Discovery of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Markers Associated with Pungency and Disease Resistance in Pepper
Authors: Manivannan Abinaya , Kim Jin-Hee , Yang Eun-Young , Ahn Yul-Kyun , Lee Eun-Su , Choi Sena , Kim Do-Sun
Published: January 2018

Pepper is an economically important horticultural plant that has been widely used for its pungency and spicy taste in worldwide cuisines. Therefore, the domestication of pepper has been carried out since antiquity. Owing to meet the growing demand for pepper with high quality, organoleptic property, nutraceutical contents, and disease tolerance, genomics assisted breeding techniques can be incorporated to develop novel pepper varieties with desired traits. The application of next-generation sequencing (NGS) approaches has reformed the plant breeding technology especially in the area of molecular marker assisted breeding. The availability of genomic information aids in the deeper understanding of several molecular mechanisms behind the vital physiological processes. In addition, the NGS methods facilitate the genome-wide discovery of DNA based markers linked to key genes involved in important biological phenomenon. Among the molecular markers, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) indulges various benefits in comparison with other existing DNA based markers. The present review concentrates on the impact of NGS approaches in the discovery of useful SNP markers associated with pungency and disease resistance in pepper. The information provided in the current endeavor can be utilized for the betterment of pepper breeding in future.
Hepatitis E: Update on Prevention and Control
Authors: Melgaço Juliana Gil , Gardinali Noemi Rovaris , Mello Vinicius da Motta de , Leal Mariana , Lewis-Ximenez Lia Laura , Pinto Marcelo Alves
Published: January 2018

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a common etiology of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. Recombinant HEV vaccines have been developed, but only one is commercially available and licensed in China since 2011. Epidemiological studies have identified genotype 3 as the major cause of chronic infection in immunocompromised individuals. Ribavirin has been shown to be effective as a monotherapy to induce HEV clearance in chronic patients who have undergone solid organ transplant (SOT) under immunosuppressive therapy. Efforts and improvements in prevention and control have been made to reduce the instances of acute and chronic hepatitis E in endemic and nonendemic countries. However, this review shows that further studies are required to demonstrate the importance of preventive vaccination and treatment worldwide, with emphasis on hepatitis E infection in the public health system.
Optical Surface Management System for Patient Positioning in Interfractional Breast Cancer Radiotherapy
Authors: Ma Zhao , Zhang Wei , Su Yi , Liu Peiji , Pan Yinghua , Zhang Gang , Song Yipeng
Published: January 2018

Background. The Optical Surface Management System (OSMS) is a simple, fast, reproducible, and accurate solution for patient set-up and can minimize random day-to-day set-up errors. However, studies in breast cancer patients are rare.Objective. To analyze 200 patient set-ups in 20 patients with breast cancer by comparing the OSMS with the conventional cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).Method. Displacements from concurrent OSMS and CBCT registrations were compared in a total of 200 setups of 20 patients to analyze the interfractional displacement and positioning displacement in three dimensions (lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions).Results. The interfractional displacement on the lateral, longitudinal, and vertical directions for OSMS versus CBCT was0.049±0.254versus0.041±0.244centimeters (cm);0.018±0.261versus0.040±0.242 cm;0.062±0.254versus0.065±0.240 cm, respectively, without any significant difference (allP>0.05). The duration for CBCT scan was about 60 seconds (s), while that for image processing, matching, and couch displacement was at least 5 minutes (min). The average scanning time with OSMS was less than 20 s, and the total duration for positioning was less than 1 min.Conclusion. OSMS is an efficient tool to improve the accuracy and increase the speed for verifying the patient positioning in radiotherapy for breast cancer.
Study on Force Schemes in Pseudopotential Lattice Boltzmann Model for Two-Phase Flows
Authors: Peng Yong , Wang Bo , Mao Yunfei
Published: January 2018

Multiphase flows are very important in industrial application. In present study, the force schemes in the pseudopotential LBM for two-phase flows have been compared in detail and the force schemes include Shan-Chen, EDM, MED, and Guo’s schemes. Numerical simulations confirm that all four schemes are consistent with the Laplace law. For Shan-Chen scheme, the smaller τ is, the smaller the surface tension is. However, for other schemes, τ has no effect on surface tension. When 0.6<τ≤1, the achieved density ratio will reduce as τ reduces. During this range of τ, the maximum density ratio of EDM scheme will be greater than that of other schemes. For a constant T, the curves of the maximum spurious currents (u′) has a minimum value which is corresponding to τ′ except for EDM schemes. In the region of τ′<τ≤1, u′ will reduce as τ decreases. On the other hand, in the area of τ≤τ′, u′ will increase as τ decreases. However, for EDM scheme, u′ will increase as τ increases.
Nasal Nitric Oxide Levels in HIV Infection: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Costiniuk Cecilia T. , Mehraj Vikram , Routy Jean-Pierre , de Castro Christina , Wasef Natale , Jenabian Mohammad-Ali , Salahuddin Syim , Lebouché Bertrand , Cox Joseph , Szabo Jason , Klein Marina , Lands Larry , Shapiro Adam J.
Published: January 2018

Introduction. Low levels of nasal NO have been associated with increased propensity to rhinosinusitis and respiratory tract infections. Our objective was to describe nasal NO levels in HIV-infected individuals versus healthy controls and determine possible risk factors for reduced nasal NO levels. Materials and Methods. HIV-infected individuals and healthy controls were recruited. Participants underwent nasal NO testing by standardized methods using a CLD88 chemiluminescence analyzer and completed the Sinonasal Outcome Test-20 (SNOT-20) on symptoms of rhinosinusitis. Results. Participants included 41 HIV-infected individuals with suppressed VL on antiretroviral therapy (ART group), 5 HIV-infected individuals with detectable VL off ART (viremic group), and 12 healthy controls (HC group). Mean nasal NO level was 253 (±77) nL/min in the ART group, 213 (±48) nL/min in the viremic group, and 289 (±68) nL/min in the HC group (p=0.133; ANOVA). There was no correlation between nasal NO level and VL in viremic individuals (r=-0.200; p=0.747). Differences were observed in mean total points on the SNOT-20 which were 19 (±16)/100, 18 (±26)/100, and 4 (±4)/100 in the ART, viremic, and HC groups, respectively (p=0.013; ANOVA). Conclusion. Healthy individuals, HIV patients on ART, and viremic individuals off ART display similar nasal NO levels. However, rhinosinusitis symptoms remain prominent despite ART-treatment.
Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles to Capture Lifelike Proteins: Application on the Multichannel Sensor Array Design
Authors: Leng Yumin , Ma Chunhua , Zhang Wentai , Liu Kecheng , Lu Zhiwen
Published: January 2018

The chemical elements of proteins are similar to that of DNA (e.g., C, H, O, and N), and DNA shows different knotted architectures. So we imagine that proteins may show a wealth of highly complex structures, especially when proteins interact with each other. The imagination was proved by synthesizing gold nanoparticles (GNPs) to capture the lifelike protein structures. The optical responses (i.e., color) of as-prepared GNPs are found to be characteristic to a given protein (or heavy metal ion). Based on the “three colors” principle of Thomas Young, we extracted the red, green, and blue (RGB) alterations of as-synthesized GNPs to fabricate multichannel sensor arrays for proteins (or heavy metal ions) discrimination. The designed multichannel sensor arrays demonstrate possibilities in semiquantitative analysis of multiple analytes (e.g., proteins and heavy metal ions). This work is believed to open new opportunities for GNPs-based label-free sensing.
Involvement of P2X7 Receptor in Proliferation and Migration of Human Glioma Cells
Authors: Ji Zhenhua , Xie Yuting , Guan Yu , Zhang Yujian , Cho Kin-Sang , Ji Min , You Yongping
Published: January 2018

Previous studies have demonstrated that activation of P2X7 receptors (P2X7R) results in the proliferation and migration of some types of tumor. Here, we asked whether and how the activated P2X7R contribute to proliferation and migration of human glioma cells. Results showed that the number of P2X7R positive cells was increasing with grade of tumor. In U87 and U251 human glioma cell lines, both expressed P2X7R and the expression was enhanced by 3′-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl) ATP (BzATP), the agonist of P2X7R, and siRNA. Our results also showed that 10 μM BzATP was sufficient to induce the proliferation of glioma cell significantly, while the cell proliferation reached the peak with 100 μM BzATP. Also, the migration of U87 and U251 cells was significantly increased upon BzATP treatment. However, the number of apoptotic cells of U87 and U251 was not significantly changed by BzATP. In addition, the expression of ERK, p-ERK, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein was increased in BzATP-treated U87 and U251 glioma cells. PD98059, an inhibitor of the MEK/ERK pathway, blocked the increased proliferation and migration of glioma cells activated by BzATP. These results suggest that ERK pathway is involved in the proliferation and migration of glioma cells induced by P2X7R activation.
Strain and Vibration in Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: McClarren Brooke , Olabisi Ronke
Published: January 2018

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells capable of differentiating into any mesenchymal tissue, including bone, cartilage, muscle, and fat. MSC differentiation can be influenced by a variety of stimuli, including environmental and mechanical stimulation, scaffold physical properties, or applied loads. Numerous studies have evaluated the effects of vibration or cyclic tensile strain on MSCs towards developing a mechanically based method of differentiation, but there is no consensus between studies and each investigation uses different culture conditions, which also influence MSC fate. Here we present an overview of the response of MSCs to vibration and cyclic tension, focusing on the effect of various culture conditions and strain or vibration parameters. Our review reveals that scaffold type (e.g., natural versus synthetic; 2D versus 3D) can influence cell response to vibration and strain to the same degree as loading parameters. Hence, in the efforts to use mechanical loading as a reliable method to differentiate cells, scaffold selection is as important as method of loading.
Repellent Activity of TRIG (N-N Diethyl Benzamide) against Man-Biting Mosquitoes
Authors: Msangi Shandala , Kweka Eliningaya , Mahande Aneth
Published: January 2018

A study was conducted to assess efficacy of a new repellent brand TRIG (15% N-N Diethyl Benzamide) when compared to DEET (20% N-N Methyl Toluamide). The repellents were tested in laboratory and field. In the laboratory, the repellence was tested on human volunteers, by exposing their repellent-treated arms on starved mosquitoes in cages for 3 minutes at hourly intervals, while counting the landing and probing attempts. Anopheles gambiae and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes were used. Field evaluation was conducted by Human Landing Catch technique. During the night, the repellents were applied on arms and legs and mosquitoes landing on these areas were collected. In laboratory tests, TRIG provided complete protection (100%) against Anopheles gambiae when applied at 1.25 g, while DEET provided this at 0.75 g. When tested on Aedes aegypti, TRIG provided complete protection when applied at 1 g, compared to 0.5 g for DEET. In the field, when applied at a recommended dose, both TRIG and DEET achieved above 90% protection against both An. arabiensis and Culex quinquefasciatus and a Complete Protection Time of about 6 hrs against both species of mosquitoes. The performances of the two products were found to be comparable and TRIG was recommended for use as repellent against mosquito bites.
Global Bifurcation from Intervals for the Monge-Ampère Equations and Its Applications
Authors: Shen Wenguo
Published: January 2018

We shall establish the global bifurcation results from the trivial solutions axis or from infinity for the Monge-Ampère equations: det(D2u)=λm(x)-uN+m(x)f1(x,-u,-u′,λ)+f2(x,-u,-u′,λ), in B, u(x)=0, on ∂B, where D2u=(∂2u/∂xi∂xj) is the Hessian matrix of u, where B is the unit open ball of RN, m∈C(B¯,[0,+∞)) is a radially symmetric weighted function and m(r):=m(x)≢0 on any subinterval of [0,1], λ is a positive parameter, and the nonlinear term f1,f2∈C(B¯×R+3,R+), but f1 is not necessarily differentiable at the origin and infinity with respect to u, where R+=[0,+∞). Some applications are given to the Monge-Ampère equations and we use global bifurcation techniques to prove our main results.
Integrative Analysis of Surface Runoff and Macropore Flow for Slopes under Rainfall Conditions
Authors: Que Yun , Lin Peiyuan , Lin Denghui
Published: January 2018

Estimating runoff and infiltration in slopes is essential to predict flooding and landslide triggering. An approach jointly using a dual-permeability model and a kinematic wave model was proposed for integrative analyses of infiltration and surface runoff of rainwater for slopes with macropores in soils subjected to rainfalls. Laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed approach. Analyses showed that the presence of macropores greatly facilitates rainwater movement in the slope and the maximum depth of wetting front could be one order of magnitude larger than in cases without macropores. The influence of rainfall intensity, initial pore water pressure, coefficient of permeability of soil matrix, and slope angle was also examined.
MHD Mixed Convection Micropolar Fluid Flow through a Rectangular Duct
Authors: Ayano Mekonnen Shiferaw , Sikwila Stephen T. , Shateyi Stanford
Published: January 2018

Mixed convection flow through a rectangular duct with at least one of the sides of the walls of the rectangle being isothermal under the influence of transversely applied magnetic field has been analyzed numerically in this study. The governing differential equations of the problem have been transformed into a system of nondimensional differential equations and then solved numerically. The dimensionless velocity, microrotation components, and temperature profiles are displayed graphically showing the effects of various values of the parameters present in the problem. The results showed that the flow field is notably influenced by the considered parameters. It is found that increasing the aspect ratio increases flow reversal, commencement of the flow reversal is observed after some critical value, and the applied magnetic field increases the flow reversal in addition to flow retardation. The microrotation components flow in opposite direction; also it is found that one component of the microrotation will show no rotational effect around the center of the duct.
Intestinal Dysbiosis Secondary to Proton-Pump Inhibitor Use
Authors: Naito Yuji , Kashiwagi Kaori , Takagi Tomohisa , Andoh Akira , Inoue Ryo
Published: January 2018

Background: Gut dysbiosis associated with the use of proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) has been found to lead to the occurrence of infectious and inflammatory adverse events. A longitudinal observational cohort study has demonstrated the heightened risk of death associated with PPI use. Summary: We evaluated meta-analyses to determine the association between PPI use and infectious and inflammatory diseases. Meta-analyses showed that PPI use is a potential risk for the development of enteric infections caused by Clostridium difficile, as well as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, community-acquired pneumonia, hepatic encephalopathy, and adverse outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease. We also examined changes in the composition and function of the gut microbiota with the use of PPIs. PPI use significantly increased the presence of Streptococcaceae and Enterococcaceae, which are risk factors for C. difficile infection, and decreased that of Faecalibacterium, a commensal anti-inflammatory microorganism. Key Message: High-throughput, microbial 16S rRNA gene sequencing has allowed us to investigate the association between the gut microbiome and PPI use. Future prospective comparison studies are necessary to confirm this association, and to develop new strategies to prevent complications of PPI use
When to Screen Ischaemic Stroke Patients for Cancer
Authors: Selvik Henriette Aurora , Bjerkreim Anna Therese , Thomassen Lars , Waje-Andreassen Ulrike , Naess Halvor , Kvistad Christopher Elnan
Published: January 2018

Background and Purpose: Ischemic stroke can be the first manifestation of cancer and it is therefore important to ascertain which stroke patients should be considered for cancer-diagnostic investigations. We aimed to determine the frequency of active cancer in patients with acute ischemic stroke and to compare clinical findings in stroke patients with active cancer to ischemic stroke patients with no history of cancer. Finally, we aimed to develop a predictive and feasible score for clinical use to uncover underlying malignancy. Methods: All ischemic stroke patients admitted to the stroke unit in the Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital were consecutively included in the Norwegian Stroke Research Registry (NORSTROKE). Stroke etiology was determined by the Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) criteria. Data on cancer diagnoses was obtained from patients’ medical records and the Cancer Registry of Norway. Active cancer was defined as cancer diagnosis, metastasis of known cancer, recurrent cancer or receiving cancer treatment, all within 12 months before or after the index stroke. Based on variables independently associated with active cancer, a predictive score was developed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC-ROC) curves. Bayes’ theorem was used to calculate post-test probabilities of active cancer. Results: Of the 1,646 ischemic stroke patients included, 82 (5.0%) had active cancer. Increased D-dimer (OR = 1.1, 95% CI: 1.1–1.2, p = <0.001), lower Hb (OR = 0.6, 95% CI: 0.5–0.7, p = <0.001), smoking (OR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2–4.3, p = 0.02) and suffering a stroke of undetermined etiology (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1–3.3, p = 0.03) were factors independently associated with active cancer. These were included in the final predictive score which gave an AUC of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.65–0.81) in patients younger than 75 years of age. Assuming the prevalence of cancer to be 5%, the score shows that if a patient fulfills all 3 score points, the probability of active cancer is 53%. Conclusions: Active cancer was found in 5% of our ischemic stroke patients. We found that a clinical score comprising elevated D-dimer ≥3 mg/L, lower Hb ≤12.0 g/dL and previous or current smoking is feasible for predicting active cancer in ischemic stroke patients.
The Use of External Ventricular Drainage to Reduce the Frequency of Wound Complications in Myelomeningocele Closure
Authors: McDowell Michael M. , Lee Philip S. , Foster Kimberly A. , Greene Stephanie
Published: January 2018

Introduction: Myelomeningocele (MMC) is an open neural tube defect routinely surgically closed within 48 h of birth to prevent secondary infection. Up to 18% of patients experience wound complications, and 85% require shunting for hydrocephalus. We hypothesized that wound complications could be reduced by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion at the time of closure. Methods: Institutional review board approval was obtained to review records of the 88 patients who underwent MMC closure between January 2005 and June 2016 at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Twenty-three patients (26%) had an external ventricular drain (EVD) placed at the time of MMC closure and underwent 7-11 days of CSF drainage. Fourteen patients (16%) had a shunt placed at the time of MMC closure, and 51 (58%) had no form of CSF diversion at the time of MMC closure. Results: Patients with an EVD or shunt placed at the time of closure had no wound complications. In contrast, 8 patients (16%) without CSF diversion at closure developed wound complications (p = 0.048). Seven of the 8 wound complications occurred in the 71 patients with evidence of hydrocephalus at birth (p = 0.98). Of patients with evidence of hydrocephalus at the time of MMC closure, wound complications had a higher rate of occurrence among patients who did not receive a shunt or EVD at closure (p = 0.01). When comparing only patients with evidence of hydrocephalus at birth, the EVD group alone had a lower rate of wound complications than patients who did not receive CSF diversion at the time of closure (p = 0.031). Conclusions: These results suggest that addressing hydrocephalus at the time of MMC closure significantly reduces the likelihood of wound complications and may justify temporary CSF diversion at birth, at least in those patients manifesting hydrocephalus.
Tablet-Based Application for Objective Measurement of Motor Fluctuations in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Wissel Benjamin D. , Mitsi Georgia , Dwivedi Alok K. , Papapetropoulos Spyridon , Larkin Sydney , López Castellanos José Ricardo , Shanks Emily , Duker Andrew P. , Rodriguez-Porcel Federico , Vaughan Jennifer E. , Lovera Lilia , Tsoulos Ioannis , Stavrakoudis Athanassios , Espay Alberto J.
Published: January 2018

Background: The motor subscale of the Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS-III) has limited applicability for the assessment of motor fluctuations in the home setting. Methods: To assess whether a self-administered, tablet-based application can reliably quantify differences in motor performance using two-target finger tapping and forearm pronation-supination tasks in the ON (maximal dopaminergic medication efficacy) and OFF (reemergence of parkinsonian deficits) medication states, we recruited 11 Parkinson disease (PD) patients (age, 60.6 ± 9.0 years; disease duration, 12.8 ± 4.1 years) and 11 healthy age-matched controls (age, 62.5 ± 10.5 years). The total number of taps, tap interval, tap duration, and tap accuracy were algorithmically calculated by the application, using the more affected side in patients and the dominant hand in healthy controls. Results: Compared to the OFF state, PD patients showed a higher number of taps (84.2 ± 20.3 vs. 54.9 ± 26.9 taps; p = 0.0036) and a shorter tap interval (375.3 ± 97.2 vs. 708.2 ± 412.8 ms; p = 0.0146) but poorer tap accuracy (2,008.4 ± 995.7 vs. 1,111.8 ± 901.3 pixels; p = 0.0055) for the two-target task in the ON state, unaffected by the magnitude of coexistent dyskinesia. Overall, test-retest reliability was high (r >0.75) and the discriminatory ability between OFF and ON states was good (0.60 ≤ AUC ≤ 0.82). The correlations between tapping data and MDS-UPDRS-III scores were only moderate (–0.55 to 0.55). Conclusions: A self-administered, tablet-based application can reliably distinguish between OFF and ON states in fluctuating PD patients and may be sensitive to additional motor phenomena, such as accuracy, not captured by the MDS-UPDRS-III.
The Vertical Array Reconstruction Technique in Pylorus-Preserving Pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Kobayashi Shinjiro , Koizumi Satoshi , Hatori Takashi , Segami Kouhei , Hoshino Hiroyuki , Otsubo Takehito
Published: January 2018

Background/Aims: We describe a new reconstruction method of duodenojejunal anastomosis, the “vertical array reconstruction” (VAR) technique, following pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (PPPD). Methods: The VAR technique aligns the stomach, duodenum, and jejunal loop vertically along the body’s longitudinal axis. It was performed in 120 consecutive patients (between June 2008 and October 2015) who underwent PPPD. We evaluated the incidence of delayed gastric emptying (DGE). Results: The incidence of DGE was 1.7% (n = 2). The proposed clinical grading classified these 2 cases of DGE as grade B. There was no DGE related to pancreatic fistula. The median duration to starting a solid diet was 3 days (range 3–5 days). The median operative time was 450 min (range 391–550 min). Conclusion: The VAR technique allows the upper digestive tract to be aligned linearly and can minimize the risk of DGE after PPPD.
Chloroquine Enhances the Radiosensitivity of Bladder Cancer Cells by Inhibiting Autophagy and Activating Apoptosis
Authors: Wang Feng , Tang Jinyuan , Li Pengchao , Si Shuhui , Yu Hao , Yang Xiao , Tao Jun , Lv Qiang , Gu Min , Yang Haiwei , Wang Zengjun
Published: January 2018

Background/Aims: Chloroquine was formerly used as an anti-malarial agent drug but has now been proven to be useful for various diseases. This study aimed to investigate the radiosensitizing effect of chloroquine in bladder cancer, with an emphasis on autophagy inhibition and apoptosis induction. Methods: Bladder cancer cell lines were irradiated with or without chloroquine. Cell proliferation was determined by a Cell Counting Kit 8 assay. The radiosensitization effect of chloroquine was evaluated by clonogenic survival and progression of xenograft tumors. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry and western blot. Radiation-induced DNA double strand break was measured by the staining of γ-H2AX. In addition, autophagy was detected by western blot, immunofluorescence staining, and electron microscopy. Results: The treatment with chloroquine alone inhibited the proliferation of bladder cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. Low cytotoxic concentrations of chloroquine enhanced the radiation sensitivity of bladder cancer cells with a sensitization enhancement ratio of 1.53 and 1.40. Chloroquine also obviously weakened the repair of radiation-induced DNA damage. A combination of radiation and chloroquine enhanced the apoptosis rate of EJ and T24 cells and down-regulated the expression of Bcl-2 while up-regulating the expression of caspase-3. Additionally, the relevant markers of autophagy were obviously increased in the combined group, meaning that chloroquine inhibited autophagy induced by irradiation. Furthermore, subcutaneous xenograft tumors displayed that the combination of radiation and chloroquine could impede tumorigenesis in vivo. Conclusion: In summary, these results provided support that by inhibiting autophagy and activating apoptosis, chloroquine might be a potentially promising radiosensitizer in the radiation therapy of bladder cancer.
MicroRNA-9a-5p Alleviates Ischemia Injury After Focal Cerebral Ischemia of the Rat by Targeting ATG5-Mediated Autophagy
Authors: Wang Ning , Yang Lei , Zhang Huixue , Lu Xiaoyu , Wang Jianjian , Cao Yuze , Chen Lixia , Wang Xiaokun , Cong Lin , Li Jie , Wang Na , Liu Zhaojun , Wang Lihua
Published: January 2018

Background/Aims: Previous studies have suggested that autophagy is activated in distinct cerebrovascular diseases, including stroke. However, the underlying regulatory mechanism of autophagy under stroke remained elusive. Accumulating evidence indicates that dysfunctions of microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the pathological process of stroke. Therefore, this study was taken to identify the effect of microRNA-9a-5p (miR-9a-5p) on autophagy in rats following stroke. Methods: The rat model of focal cerebral ischemia was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) surgery; The neurological outcomes were defined by neurological evaluation and infarct volume; The western blotting and immunofluorescence assays were used to detected the protein levels of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) and autophagy related 5 (ATG5); The mRNA level of miR-9a-5p, LC3 and ATG5 were quantified by real-time RT-PCR; The luciferase activities of ATG5 and miR-9a-5p was detected by luciferase assay. Results: We showed here that the level of miR-9a-5p was decreased in the ischemic region of rats after MCAO. Overexpression of miR-9a-5p by miR-9a-5p agomir reduced infarct volume and alleviated neurological deficit. Moreover, we found that autophagy was activated by miR-9a-5p inhibition and inactivated by miR-9a-5p overexpression both in the MCAO rat and in SY-5Y cell lines, and unchanged by miR-masks as indicated by LC3 expression. Furthermore, the protein level of ATG5 was decreased by miR-9a-5p overexpression, but increased by miR-9a-5p inhibition and unchanged by miR-masks transfection. In addition, the luciferase assay data showed that miR-9a-5p suppressed the luciferase activity of 3’UTR of ATG5, whereas the repressive effect was relieved by mutation of binding sites. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that miR-9a-5p may play a critical role in regulating the process of autophagy through targeting ATG5 expression, and overexpression of miR-9a-5p may be a potential approach in alleviating ischemia injury induced by MCAO.
Takagi-Sugeno Fuzzy Perpose as Speed Controller in Indirect Field Oriented Control of Induction Motor Drive
Authors: Mat Ariff Roslina , Hanafi Dirman , Utomo Wahyu Mulyo , Muhammad Zin Nooradzianie , Sim Sy Yi , Aida Bohari Azuwien
Published: January 2018

This paper deal with the problem in speed controller for Indirect Field Oriented Control of Induction Motor.  The problem cause decrease performance of Induction Motor where it widely used in high-performance applications. In order decrease the fault of speed induction motor, Takagi-Sugeno type Fuzzy logic control is used as the speed controller. For this, a model of indirect field oriented control of induction motor is built and simulating using MATLAB simulink. Secondly, error of speed and derivative error as the input and change of torque command as the output for speed control is applied in simulation. Lastly, from the simulation result overshoot is zero persent, rise time is 0.4s and settling time is 0.4s. The important data is steady state error is 0.01 percent show that the speed can follow reference speed. From that simulation result illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
A Constant Switching Frequency DTC for PMSM Using Low Switching Losses SVM–An Experimental Result
Authors: Chikh K. , Saad A. , Khafallah M. , Yousfi D. , Tahiri F.Z. , Hasoun M.
Published: January 2018

A Constant Switching Frequency Direct Torque Control (CSF-DTC) with low switching losses Space Vector modulation (SVM) for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) drive is proposed in this work. The CSF-DTC combines Field Oriented Control (FOC) and basic DTC advantages. Indeed, the proposed control strategy improves the basic DTC performances, which features low flux and torque ripples as well as a fixed switching frequency. The improved DTC ensures also a fast and robust flux and torque responses by using Integral and Proportional (IP) controllers which guaranteed a good disturbance rejection.On the other hand, a symmetrical SVM technique with low switching losses in the PWM inverter is used in order to generate the desired stator voltage vector needed to control the stator flux and the motor torque. Simulation and experimental results are presentedin this paper.These results demonstrate well the performance of the basic and proposed DTC and they show the effectiveness of the constant switching frequency direct torque control.
Investigation of Slim Type BLDC Motor Drive with Torque Ripple Minimization using Abridged Space-Vector PWM Control Method
Authors: Bharatiraja C. , Babu Shyam , Krishnakumar V. , Sanjeevikumar P. , George Nixon
Published: January 2018

Brushless DC (BLDC) motors are becoming an increasingly popular motor of choice for its unique characteristics. The BLDC motor drive is assumed to have trapezoidal back-electromotive force (EMF), rectangular phase currents and together produces the desired torque. However, practical back-EMF waveform might not be exactly trapezoidal because of current ripple, design considerations and manufacturing limitations. The adverse effect is the torque ripple generated due to the current ripple that causes mechanical vibration, acoustic noise and affects the accuracy of speed and position control which is not desirable in motor operation. In this paper an algorithm is developed to control and minimize the generated torque ripple using Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation (SVPWM) scheme. The efficiency improvement of slim type BLDC motor is confirmed using MATLAB environment and low cost TI Piccolo F28035 microcontroller (MC).
Sensor Fault Detection and Isolation Based on Artificial Neural Networks and Fuzzy Logic Applicated on Induction Motor for Electrical Vehicle
Authors: Boukadida Souha , Gdaim Soufien , Mtiba Abdellatif
Published: January 2018

Recently, research has picked up a fervent pace in the area of fault diagnosis of electrical vehicle. Like failures of a position sensor, a voltage sensor, and current sensors. Three-phase induction motors are the “workhorses” of industry and are the most widely used electrical machines. This paper presents a scheme for Fault Detection and Isolation (FDI). The proposed approach is a sensor-based technique using the mains current measurement. Current sensors are widespread in power converters control and in electrical drives. Thus, to ensure continuous operation with reconfiguration control, a fast sensor fault detection and isolation is required. In this paper, a new and fast faulty current sensor detection and isolation is presented. It is derived from intelligent techniques. The main interest of field programmable gate array is the extremely fast computation capabilities. That allows a fast residual generation when a sensor fault occurs. Using of Xilinx System Generator in Matlab / Simulink allows the real-time simulation and implemented on a field programmable gate array chip without any VHSIC Hardware Description Language coding. The sensor fault detection and isolation algorithm was implemented targeting a Virtex5. Simulation results are given to demonstrate the efficiency of this FDI approach.
An Advanced MPPT Based on Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm for MPPT Photovoltaic System under Partial Shading Condition
Authors: Hassan Salmi , Abdelmajid Badri , Mourad Zegrari , Aicha Sahel , Abdenaceur Baghdad
Published: January 2018

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms are employed in photovoltaic (PV) systems to make full utilization of PV array output power, which have a complex relationship between ambient temperature and solar irradiation. The power-voltage characteristic of PV array operating under partial shading conditions (PSC) exhibits multiple local maximum power points (LMPP). In this paper, an advanced algorithm has been presented to track the global maximum power point (GMPP) of PV. Compared with the Perturb and Observe (P&O) techniques, the algorithm proposed the advantages of determining the location of GMPP whether partial shading is present.
Multiple Inverters Operated in Parallel for Proportional Load Sharing in Microgrid
Authors: Raj D Chethan , Gaonkar D N
Published: January 2018

The new energy source utilization and development, gradual rise of distributed power grid miniaturization, intelligence, control has become a trend. In order to make microgrid reliable and efficiently run, control technology of microgrid has become a top priority and an inverter as microgrid basic unit, its control has become the most  important part in microgrid. In this paper, three inverters are operated in parallel using an P-V/Q-F droop control is investigated. Mathematical model of three phase inverter with LC filter is derived, which is based on the voltage and current dual control loop. Parallel control strategy based on P-V/Q-F droop control, does not require a real time communications between the inverters and more suitable for microgrid applications. To verify the feasibility and validity of the droop control scheme, simulation is done in Matlab/Simulink and results indicate droop control has significant effect on power sharing and balancing the voltage magnitude, frequency.
Design of Real Time Anemometer Based on Wind Speed-Direction and Temperature
Authors: Hardianto Triwahju , Supeno Bambang , Setiawan Dedy Kurnia , Gunawan Gunawan
Published: January 2018

Data acquisition of wind speed, wind direction and environmental temperature are needed to get the data potential of wind power. The aim of this research is to generate a device of wind speed, wind direction and temperature with the real time condition. With this device, we will obtain an analysis about the potential of wind power electrical generation around the Puger beach, Jember, Indonesia. In this study, parameters investigated were made into three types of measurement variables that measure of wind speed, wind direction, temperature and a data  to show real time data..The device which is used to measure wind speed using hall effect sensor as a transducer. With using of the active magnet that spins will be created pwm that will be read by sensor to get the wind speed. As for the shows wind direction, we use a compass sensor CMPS 03 is a digital sensor that outputs in the form of digital bits so that be able to show wind direction from 0° to 360°. The magnitude of angle will be used in analyzing the direction of the wind, the real time clock (RTC) will be used to directly to determine the time and date of recording data. Then the temperature DS1621 sensor to show environmental temperature.
Buck Converter Control for Lead Acid Battery Charger using Peak Current Mode
Authors: Nugroho Asep , Rijanto Estiko , Rozaqi Latif
Published: January 2018

DC-DC buck converters are used for battery chargers in many applications including renewable energy sources, inverters, electric vehicles and robots. In this paper a buck converter was built and its controller was developed using peak current control mode for current loop and phase lag for voltage loop. This paper proposes a formulation of plant disturbance due to load variation to obtain a nominal model based on small signal approach. The controller was derived analytically based on the nominal model. Experiment results show that the buck control system functions well in regulating the output voltage. During the start up without any load it can reduce input voltage from 300 V to output voltage of 133.9 V in 19.3 ms. The developed controller can maintain the output voltage under load variation from no load to sudden load of 0.26 A. When it was implemented to charge a lead acid battery string, constant current of 3.36 A was charged in the first 173 minutes followed by constant voltage of 134.7 V until the end of charging at time 483 minutes. Thus, the developed control system of lead acid battery charger works well.
Voltage Stability Improvement in Fourteen Bus System during Line Interruption using DPFC
Authors: Bahamani Akhib Khan , Sreerama Reddy G.M. , Ganesh V.
Published: January 2018

DPFC is proposed in the present work to improve voltage stability of fourteen bus system during line interruption. The voltage across the load decreases due to the interruption of the line. State space method is used to calculate Line currents and bus voltages. The ability of DPFC to bring voltage, real power and reactive power to normal level is presented in this paper. The simulation results for healthy system, line interrupted system without DPFC and with DPFC are presented. The results of comparative study are presented to show the improvement in power quality. The simulation studies indicate that the power flow with DPFC during line outage is almost equal to the power during healthy condition.
Incipient Fault Detection of the Inverter Fed Induction Motor Drive
Authors: Venkata Ramana D. , Baskar S.
Published: January 2018

Inverter fed Induction motor drives are deployed across a variety of industrial and commercial applications. Although the drives in the question are well known for their reliable operation in any type of environment, it becomes an important daunting critical task to have them in continuous operation as per the applications’ requirement. Identifying the faulty behavior of power electronic circuits which could lead to catastrophic failures is an attractive proposition. The cost associated with building systems devoted for monitoring and diagnosis is high, however such cost could be justified for the safety-critical systems. Commonly practiced methods for improving the reliability of the power electronic systems are: designing the power circuit conservatively or having parallel redundant operation of components or circuits and clearly these two methods are expensive. An alternative to redundancy is fault tolerant control, which involves drive control algorithm, that in the event of fault occurrence, allows the drive to run in a degraded mode. Such algorithms involve on-line processing of the signals and this requires Digital Signal Processing of the signals. This paper presents the FFT and Wavelet transform techniques for on-line monitoring and analyzing the signals such as stator currents.
Power Factor Correction with Current Controlled Buck Converter for BLDC Motor Drive
Authors: Sarala P. , Kodad S. F. , Sarvesh B.
Published: January 2018

Brushless DC motor is a synchronous machine that makes use of electronic commutation instead of mechanical commutator. Brushless DC motors makes use of inverter encompassing static switches for its operation. A simple bridge converter when used for BLDC drive as front end converter makes input source power factor to get reduced which is unacceptable in the power system. To avoid the distortions in the source voltage and source currents, Buck converter which was used as power factor correction (PFC) converter in this paper to improve the power factor. Presence of power electronic converters deteriorates system power factor effecting overall system performance. This paper presents buck converter for power factor correction in brushless DC motor drive system. Buck converter is operated with current control strategy rather to conventional voltage follower control. Simulation model was obtained using MATLAB/SIMULINK software and the brushless DC motor performance characteristics were shown for conditions with different DC link voltages and step variation in DC link voltage. Total harmonic distortion in source current was also presented.