bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential of Quantum Finite Automata with Exact Acceptance
Authors: Gruska Jozef , Qiu Daowen , Zheng Shenggen
Published: July 2015

The potential of the exact quantum information processing is an interesting, important and intriguing issue. For examples, it has been believed that quantum tools can provide significant, that is larger than polynomial, advantages in the case of exact quantum computation only, or mainly, for problems with very special structures. We will show that this is not the case.

In this paper the potential of quantum finite automata producing outcomes not only with a (high) probability, but with certainty (so called exactly) is explored in the context of their uses for solving promise problems and with respect to the size of automata. It is shown that for solving particular classes [Formula: see text] of promise problems, even those without some very special structure, that succinctness of the exact quantum finite automata under consideration, with respect to the number of (basis) states, can be very small (and constant) though it grows proportional to [Formula: see text] in the case deterministic finite automata (DFAs) of the same power are used. This is here demonstrated also for the case that the component languages of the promise problems solvable by DFAs are non-regular. The method used can be applied in finding more exact quantum finite automata or quantum algorithms for other promise problems.
ECONOMIC GROWTH AND EXCHANGE RATE: A NEW ROAD AHEAD FOR INDONESIA
Authors: LIM CHONG YAH
Published: July 2015

This short article advocates the further development of Indonesia through an export-oriented industrialization policy. It opines that it is only through this policy that the perennial depreciation of the Indonesian exchange rate, including through capital flight, can be stopped. The article also advocates a twin-engine approach, with the State be responsible for the efficient supply of public goods, and the private sector, including the active participation of foreign investment, be encouraged, actively, for the supply of private goods, with concentration on export-oriented manufactured goods. The social and educational system will have to give support to this fundamental policy shift.
EXTENT OF EXCHANGE RATE COORDINATION IN ASIA
Authors: GUPTA ABHIJIT SEN
Published: July 2015

High level of intra-regional trade and negative spillovers from competitive devaluation make exchange rate coordination extremely desirable in Asia. Employing a hypothetical Asian Currency Unit we evaluate the degree of coordination among Asian currencies. Traditional empirical tests yield little evidence of coordination among real and nominal exchange rates. However, introducing endogenously determined structural breaks to account for changes in exchange rate regimes provides more mixed evidence. While there is still little evidence for coordination in nominal terms, some degree of coordination among real rates emerges. The limited evidence for exchange rate coordination can be explained by the diverse exchange rate regimes prevailing in these economies, signaling differences in policy objectives.
Seismotectonic Mechanisms of Lushan (Ms7.0) Earthquake in the Frontal Propagation Belt of the Longmen Shan, Sichuan, China
Authors: Yong Li , Liang Yan , Rongjun Zhou , Chongjian Shao , Guohua Zhao , Dechen Su , Zhaokun Yan , Kun Yun
Published: July 2015

In recent years, the apparent seismic activity around Longmen Shan and its front has included the Wenchuan (Ms8.0) Earthquake and the Lushan (Ms7.0) Earthquake, occurring in 2008 and 2013, respectively. Based on the focal mechanism solution, rupture processes, seismic intensity, surface deformation, and aftershocks of the Lushan Earthquake and the active fault on Longmen Shan, we divided the Longmen Shan and its front into two tectonic deformation belts, the Longmen Shan thrust belt and the frontal propagation belt. By comparing the differences in the tectonic deformation styles, active faults, and earthquake histories of the two belts, we propose two kinds of seismotectonic models: one is a thrusting belt characterized by napping and detachment, and the other is a frontal propagation belt characterized by thrusting and detachment folding. By analyzing the seismogenic mechanisms of thrusting and detachment folding in the frontal propagation belt during the Lushan Earthquake, we have inferred that the Lushan Earthquake was formed by thrusting and detachment folding in the frontal propagation belt. The seismogenic fault of the Lushan Earthquake was the Dayi Fault, which dips NW with a listric surface, and converges on the detachment surface. The detachment surface is the seismic source layer of the Lushan Earthquake.
An Overview of Tsunami Wave Force on Coastal Bridge and Open Challenges
Authors: Mazinani Iman , Binti Ismail Zubaidah , Hashim Ahmad Mustafa
Published: July 2015

Hundreds of bridges were washed away or heavily damaged by tsunami waves during the two tragic tsunamis that devastated the west coast of Sumatra Island, Indonesia, in 2004 and North East Japan in 2011. This vast damage was a clear warning for scientists to pay more attention and investigate, assess and mitigate the effect of tsunami loads on various structures including bridges. This multidisciplinary research presents a review of the literature and comprehensive evaluation on previous research concerning the effect of tsunamis on bridges. It begins with the basic evaluation of tsunami loads on bridges through to the current tsunamis. The experimental, numerical and survey reports on tsunami loads on bridges are reviewed and discussed. Tsunami mitigation systems on bridges are examined and classified in this paper. In addition, the open issues and challenges are outlined for future studies to help evaluate new research concerning the assessment, design and mitigation of tsunami loads on bridges.
Hazard mitigation and crisis management during major flank eruptions at Etna volcano: reporting on real experience
Authors: Bonaccorso Alessandro , Calvari Sonia , Boschi Enzo
Published: July 2015

Etna volcano is characterized by frequent effusive eruptions from the summit craters or from flank fissures, and these have often threatened villages, infrastructures and tourist facilities. Considerable experience of lava-flow mitigation has been gained by scientists working on this volcano, and in this paper we principally discuss the problems arising from lava flows emplaced during the 2002–03 flank eruption, when eruptive fissures opened both on the northern and southern flanks of the volcano, feeding lava flows towards several villages, tourist facilities and forests. We highlight the importance of the monitoring system to follow the spreading of eruptive fissures and predict when they stopped propagating. We illustrate the value of thermal mapping in identifying active lava flows, in measuring effusion rates to estimate the maximum distance that flows can travel, and in obtaining reliable lava-flow simulations in real time in order to predict possible paths of the lava flow and to adopt the most appropriate solutions to limit its damage. Collaborations between scientists from different institutions and fields once again proved essential to understand and model the eruptive processes, to mitigate hazards and to obtain the best results.
Proopiomelanocortin, agouti-related protein, and leptin in human cerebrospinal fluid: correlations with body weight and adiposity
Authors: Page-Wilson Gabrielle , Meece Kana , White Anne , Rosenbaum Michael , Leibel Rudolph L. , Smiley Richard , Wardlaw Sharon L.
Published: July 2015

Leptin and its neuronal targets, which produce proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and agouti-related protein (AgRP), regulate energy balance. This study characterized leptin, POMC, and AgRP in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 47 healthy human subjects, 23 lean and 24 overweight/obese (OW/OB), as related to BMI, adiposity, plasma leptin, soluble leptin receptor (s-OB-R), and insulin. POMC was measured since the POMC prohormone is the predominant POMC peptide in CSF and correlates with hypothalamic POMC in rodents. Plasma AgRP was similarly characterized. CSF leptin was 83-fold lower than in plasma and correlated strongly with BMI, body fat, and insulin. The relative amount of leptin transported into CSF declined with increasing BMI, ranging from 4.5 to 0.52%, consistent with a saturable transport mechanism. CSF sOB-R was 78-fold lower than in plasma and correlated negatively with plasma and CSF leptin. CSF POMC was higher in lean vs. OW/OB subjects ( P < 0.001) and correlated negatively with CSF leptin ( r = −0.60, P < 0.001) and with plasma leptin, insulin, BMI, and adiposity. CSF AgRP was not different in lean vs. OW/OB; however, plasma AgRP was higher in lean subjects ( P = 0.001) and correlated negatively with BMI, adiposity, leptin, insulin, and HOMA ( P < 0.005). Thus, CSF measurements may provide useful biomarkers for brain leptin and POMC activity. The striking negative correlation between CSF leptin and POMC could be secondary to leptin resistance and/or neuronal changes associated with obesity but may also indicate that POMC plays a primary role in regulating body weight and adiposity. The role of plasma AgRP as a neuroendocrine biomarker deserves further study.
Identification of gene signatures regulated by carvedilol in mouse heart
Authors: Teoh Jian-peng , Park Kyoung-mi , Broskova Zuzana , Jimenez Felix R. , Bayoumi Ahmed S. , Archer Krystal , Su Huabo , Johnson John , Weintraub Neal L. , Tang Yaoliang , Kim Il-man
Published: July 2015

Chronic treatment with the β-blocker carvedilol has been shown to reduce established maladaptive left ventricle (LV) hypertrophy and to improve LV function in experimental heart failure. However, the detailed mechanisms by which carvedilol improves LV failure are incompletely understood. We previously showed that carvedilol is a β-arrestin-biased β1-adrenergic receptor ligand, which activates cellular pathways in the heart independent of G protein-mediated second messenger signaling. More recently, we have demonstrated by microRNA (miR) microarray analysis that carvedilol upregulates a subset of mature and pre-mature miRs, but not their primary miR transcripts in mouse hearts. Here, we next sought to identify the effects of carvedilol on LV gene expression on a genome-wide basis. Adult mice were treated with carvedilol or vehicle for 1 wk. RNA was isolated from LV tissue and hybridized for microarray analysis. Gene expression profiling analysis revealed a small group of genes differentially expressed after carvedilol treatment. Further analysis categorized these genes into pathways involved in tight junction, malaria, viral myocarditis, glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis, and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. Genes encoding proteins in the tight junction, malaria, and viral myocarditis pathways were upregulated in the LV by carvedilol, while genes encoding proteins in the glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy pathways were downregulated by carvedilol. These gene expression changes may reflect the molecular mechanisms that underlie the functional benefits of carvedilol therapy.
Lamb Waves in a Functionally Graded Composite Plate with Nonintegral Power Function Volume Fractions
Authors: Cao Xiaoshan , Qu Zhen , Shi Junping , Ru Yan
Published: July 2015

An analytical modelling is carried out to determine the Lamb wave’s propagation behavior in a thermal stress relaxation type functionally graded material (FGM) plate, which is a composite of two kinds of materials. The mechanical parameters depend on the volume fractions, which are nonintegral power functions, and the gradient coefficient is the power value. Based on the theory of elastodynamics, differential equations with variable coefficients are established. We employ variable substitution for theoretical derivations to solve the ordinary differential equations with variable coefficients using the Taylor series. The numerical results reveal that the dispersion properties in some regions are changed by the graded property, the phase velocity varies in a nonlinear manner with the gradient coefficient, nondispersion frequency exists in the first mode, and the set of cutoff frequencies is a union of two series of approximate arithmetic progressions. These results provide theoretical guidance not only for the experimental measurement of material properties but also for their nondestructive testing.
Generation of a Fibrin Based Three-Layered Skin Substitute
Authors: Kober Johanna , Gugerell Alfred , Schmid Melanie , Kamolz Lars-Peter , Keck Maike
Published: July 2015

A variety of skin substitutes that restore epidermal and dermal structures are currently available on the market. However, the main focus in research and clinical application lies on dermal and epidermal substitutes whereas the development of a subcutaneous replacement (hypodermis) is often disregarded. In this study we used fibrin sealant as hydrogel scaffold to generate a three-layered skin substitute. For the hypodermal layer adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and mature adipocytes were embedded in the fibrin hydrogel and were combined with another fibrin clot with fibroblasts for the construction of the dermal layer. Keratinocytes were added on top of the two-layered construct to form the epidermal layer. The three-layered construct was cultivated for up to 3 weeks. Our results show that ASCs and fibroblasts were viable, proliferated normally, and showed physiological morphology in the skin substitute. ASCs were able to differentiate into mature adipocytes during the course of four weeks and showed morphological resemblance to native adipose tissue. On the surface keratinocytes formed an epithelial-like layer. For the first time we were able to generate a three-layered skin substitute based on a fibrin hydrogel not only serving as a dermal and epidermal substitute but also including the hypodermis.
Modal Identification Using OMA Techniques: Nonlinearity Effect
Authors: Zhang E. , Pintelon R. , Guillaume P.
Published: July 2015

This paper is focused on an assessment of the state of the art of operational modal analysis (OMA) methodologies in estimating modal parameters from output responses of nonlinear structures. By means of the Volterra series, the nonlinear structure excited by random excitation is modeled as best linear approximation plus a term representing nonlinear distortions. As the nonlinear distortions are of stochastic nature and thus indistinguishable from the measurement noise, a protocol based on the use of the random phase multisine is proposed to reveal the accuracy and robustness of the linear OMA technique in the presence of the system nonlinearity. Several frequency- and time-domain based OMA techniques are examined for the modal identification of simulated and real nonlinear mechanical systems. Theoretical analyses are also provided to understand how the system nonlinearity degrades the performance of the OMA algorithms.
A New Physical Parameter Identification Method for Two-Axis On-Road Vehicles: Simulation and Experiment
Authors: Zheng Minyi , Peng Peng , Zhang Bangji , Zhang Nong , Wang Lifu , Chen Yuanchang
Published: July 2015

A new physical parameter identification method for two-axis on-road vehicle is presented. The modal parameters of vehicle are identified by using the State Variable Method. To make it possible to determine the matricesM,C, andKof the vehicle, a known mass matrixΔMis designed to add into the vehicle in order to increase the number of equations ensuring that the number of equations is more than the one of unknowns. Therefore, the physical parameters of vehicle can be estimated by using the least square method. To validate the presented method, a numerical simulation example and an experiment example are given in this paper. The numerical simulation example shows that the largest of absolute value of percentage error is 1.493%. In the experiment example, a school bus is employed in study for the parameter identification. The simulation result from full-car model with the estimated physical parameters is compared with the test result. The agreement between the simulation and the test proves the effectiveness of the proposed estimation method.
Optimal Intervention Strategies for the Spread of Obesity
Authors: Oh Chunyoung , M A Masud
Published: July 2015

The present study considers a deterministic compartmental model for obesity dynamics. The model exhibits forward bifurcation at basic reproduction number,R0=1, that is; forR0<1, obesity is not sustained. However forR0>1the model approaches a locally asymptotically stable endemic equilibrium. To control this epidemic and reduce the obesity at the endemic equilibrium, we considered intervention strategies for the spread of overweight and obesity, where Pontryagin’s Maximum Principle is applied. The numerical technique was used to show that there are effective control strategies that include minimizing the social contact rate with the overweight and obese population and campaigning. Numerical results indicated the effects of the two controls (prevention and education/campaigning) to be different. In societies with lower obesity, the social contact rate with the overweight and obese population plays a more prominent role in spreading obesity than lack of educational programs/campaigns. However, for societies with very high obesity burden, education/campaigning proved to be highly effective strategies. Reducing the social contact rate can result in other results such as a depression and an invasion of their individual rights. The appropriate approach to obesity is needed to lower obese societies.
The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Cardiac Computed Tomography in the Assessment of Left Atrial Anatomy, Size, and Function
Authors: Kuchynka Petr , Podzimkova Jana , Masek Martin , Lambert Lukas , Cerny Vladimir , Danek Barbara , Palecek Tomas
Published: July 2015

In the last decade, there has been increasing evidence that comprehensive evaluation of the left atrium is of utmost importance. Numerous studies have clearly demonstrated the prognostic value of left atrial volume for long-term outcome. Furthermore, advances in catheter ablation procedures used for the treatment of drug-refractory atrial fibrillation require the need for detailed knowledge of left atrial and pulmonary venous morphology as well of atrial wall characteristics. This review article discusses the role of cardiac magnetic resonance and computed tomography in assessment of left atrial size, its normal and abnormal morphology, and function. Special interest is paid to the utility of these rapidly involving noninvasive imaging methods before and after atrial fibrillation ablation.
Pathophysiological Relationship between Infections and Systemic Vasculitis
Authors: Muñoz-Grajales Carolina , Pineda Juan C.
Published: July 2015

The development of autoimmune disorders requires a combination of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors. Infectious agents, such as viruses and bacteria, can trigger autoimmunity through different mechanisms, and for systemic vasculitis in particular, microbial agents have been suggested to be involved in its pathogenesis. Although the exact mechanisms have not been fully elucidated, different theories have been postulated. This review considers the role of infections in the etiology of primary vasculitis, emphasizing their related immunological events.
The Study and Evaluation of ARM-Based Mobile Virtualization
Authors: Xu Lei , Wang Zonghui , Chen Wenzhi
Published: July 2015

In common sense, virtualization technology is adopted to offer several isolated execution environments and make better use of computational resources in server environment. However, in embedded systems, the significance of virtualization does not come into the picture. The extensive utilization of mobile smart devices has led to a series of issues such as security, wasting of resources, and power consumption. In this paper, we discuss how mobile virtualization addresses these challenges and then present a detail analysis of four mainstream mobile virtualization solutions: containers, paravirtualization, hardware-assisted full virtualization, and microkernel. At last, we carry out a series of performance comparisons among these solutions and make some suggestions for further research.
Pyramidal Lobe of the Thyroid Gland: Surgical Anatomy in Patients Undergoing Total Thyroidectomy
Authors: Gurleyik Emin , Gurleyik Gunay , Dogan Sami , Cobek Utku , Cetin Fuat , Onsal Ufuk
Published: July 2015

Background. Anatomic variations, the presence of the pyramidal lobe (PL), may impact completeness of thyroidectomy and effect of surgical treatment. Method. This study included 166 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy. The anterior cervical region between the thyroid isthmus and the hyoid bone was dissected during thyroid surgery. The incidence, size, and anatomical features of the PL were established in these patients. Results. The incidence of PL was 65.7%. No gender difference was found for PL incidence. The base of the PL was located at the isthmus in 52.3%, the left lobe in 29.4%, and the right lobe in 18.3% of patients. The mean length of the PL was 22.7 (range, 5–59) mm. The PL was longer than 30 mm in 23% of patients. One-third of the patients with short PL were men whereas women accounted for 80% of patients with long PL. Conclusions. The high incidence indicates that the PL is a common part of the thyroid. The PL generally originates from the isthmus near midline and is of variable length, extending from the isthmus up to the hyoid bone. Considering that the PL is a common structure, the prelaryngeal region should be dissected to achieve the completeness of thyroidectomy.
Unruptured Aneurysm of Sinus of Valsalva Coexisting with the Large Ventricular Septal Defect and Severe Aortic Regurgitation in a Young Man
Authors: Nezafati Pouya , Nezafati Mohammad Hassan , Hoseinikhah Hamid
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Unruptured sinus of valsalva aneurysm (SVA) is a rare congenital anomaly, particularly, when it coexists with a ventricular septal defect (VSD) and aortic regurgitation due to the prolapse of the elongated aortic cusp into the VSD. In this report, we present the case of a 19-year-old young man with VSD challenging in spite of dyspnea and lower limb edema.Presentation of Case. Its diagnosis was made on the basis of transthoracic echocardiography results. Surgical management consisted of replacing the SVA with mechanical valve prosthesis. A Gore-Tex patch repaired the VSD.Discussion. In the follow-up periods, clinical and echocardiographic tests showed that the patient was in excellent status.Conclusion. SVA requires a surgical procedure due to its high risk of mortality in unoperated patients and a good safety of surgery.
Detecting the Boundary of Sensor Networks from Limited Cyclic Information
Authors: Lara-Alvarez Carlos , Flores Juan J. , Wang Chieh-Chih
Published: July 2015

We address the problem of finding the boundaries of a set of points by using a limited range-cyclic order detector. This sensor, denoted by lrcod, is able to detect nearby objects and enumerate them by their cyclic order; neither distance nor the angular position of each object is provided. Boundaries are important in many applications such as detecting the breakdown of networks, insufficient coverage or connectivity, abnormal functioning sensors, and virtual coordinates for routing. We studied the information space of the lrcod sensors and established their capabilities to find inner and outer boundaries. Our proposed approach uses local information to recognize points on the boundary. To discover the complete boundary we define the Right Hand Without Crossings (RHWoC) rule. We also provide a correctness proof of this rule. The experimental evaluation confirms the effectiveness to find the boundary of large sensor networks.
An Empirical Rate Constant Based Model to Study Capacity Fading in Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Ramesh Srivatsan , Ratnam K. Venkata , Krishnamurthy Balaji
Published: July 2015

A one-dimensional model based on solvent diffusion and kinetics to study the formation of the SEI (solid electrolyte interphase) layer and its impact on the capacity of a lithium ion battery is developed. The model uses the earlier work on silicon oxidation but studies the kinetic limitations of the SEI growth process. The rate constant of the SEI formation reaction at the anode is seen to play a major role in film formation. The kinetics of the reactions for capacity fading for various battery systems are studied and the rate constants are evaluated. The model is used to fit the capacity fade in different battery systems.
Auricular Acupressure Can Modulate Pain Threshold
Authors: Santoro Antonietta , Nori Stefania Lucia , Lorusso Letizia , Secondulfo Carmine , Monda Marcellino , Viggiano Andrea
Published: July 2015

The objective of our study was to investigate if auriculotherapy (AT) can modulate pain threshold. In our experiments, AT consisted of placingVaccariaseeds over the “fingers point” of one ear. Two groups of healthy volunteers were enrolled for the study. Each subject was asked to perform an autoalgometric test developed by our group on three occasions: before, 1 hour after, AT and 24 hours after AT. Participants of the first group received a 2-minute long session of AT, while participants of the second group received a 2-minute long session of sham treatment, consisting of a puncture/massage above the skin of the neck. The autoalgometric test consisted of applying an increasing pressure with the finger-tips and finger-backs of four fingers by the subjects themselves (i.e., eight sites were evaluated) against a round-shaped needle for two times: until a minimum pain sensation (first time, minimal test) or a maximally tolerable pain sensation (second time, maximal test). Our results showed a significant higher pain threshold in the maximal test at 24 hours after AT compared to sham treatment. This result indicates for the first time that AT can increase pain tolerability, rather than affecting the minimal pain threshold.
A Recommendation Model Using the Bandwagon Effect for E-Marketing Purposes in IoT
Authors: Choi Sang-Min , Lee Hyein , Han Yo-Sub , Man Ka Lok , Chong Woon Kian
Published: July 2015

Recently, the Internet of things (IoT) became useful in various applications based on the web communication technology. The IoT has great potential in several service domains including cultural, educational, or medical areas. We consider a recommendation technique suitable for the IoT-based service. A personalized recommender system often relies on user preferences for better suggestions. We notice that we need a different recommendation approach in the IoT platform. While the conventional recommendation approaches rely on user preferences provided by users, these approaches may not be suitable for the IoT environment. The conventional systems utilize user ratings for items to compose recommendation list. This implies that the systems require additional user activities such as adding their preferences. We notice that the IoT environment can naturally provide user information such as users’ item selection history without users’ additional actions. We propose a recommendation model that does not require users’ additional actions and is more suitable for the IoT environment. We examine the usability of the bandwagon effect to build a new recommender system based on users’ selection history. We first consider the bandwagon effects in movie recommendation domain and show its usefulness for the IoT. We then suggest how to use the bandwagon effect in recommender systems with IoT.
Recurrent Postoperative Spinal Epidural Hematoma in a Patient with Protein S Deficiency
Authors: Anno Masato , Yamazaki Takashi , Hara Nobuhiro , Hayakawa Keishi
Published: July 2015

A 71-year-old man underwent cervical laminectomy and developed two symptomatic epidural hematomas during the acute postoperative period. On both occasions, drain obstruction was the predominant cause. Congenital Protein S deficiency was diagnosed postoperatively. Protein S is a vitamin K-dependent natural anticoagulant and is essential for inhibiting thrombosis in microcirculation. We assume that Protein S deficiency followed by perioperative bed-rest and surgical invasiveness led to severe hypercoagulability and subsequent drain obstruction. The present findings suggest that both bleeding disorders and hypercoagulability are risk factors for postoperative symptomatic epidural hematoma.
Influence of Deposition Rate on the Thermoelectric Properties of Sb2Te3 Thin Films by Thermal Evaporation Method
Authors: Lin Jyun-Min , Chen Ying-Chung , Chen Wei
Published: July 2015

Thermoelectric (TE) materials are crucial because they can be used in power generation and cooling devices. Sb2Te3‐based compounds are the most favorable TE materials because of their excellent figure of merit at room temperature. In this study, Sb2Te3 thin films were prepared on SiO2/Si substrates through thermal evaporation. The influence of the evaporation current on the microstructures and TE properties of Sb2Te3 thin films were investigated. The crystalline structures and morphologies of the thin films were analyzed using X‐ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, and power factor (PF) were measured at room temperature. The experimental results showed that the Seebeck coefficient increased and conductivity decreased with increasing evaporation current. The Seebeck coefficient reached a maximum of 387.58 μV/K at an evaporation current of 80 A. Conversely, a PF of 3.57 µW/cmK2 was obtained at room temperature with evaporation current of 60 A.
Amorphous Localization Algorithm Based on BP Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Zhao Lin-zhe , Wen Xian-bin , Li Dan
Published: July 2015

Accurate localization of nodes is one of the key issues of wireless sensor network (WSN). Because the disadvantages of the classical Amorphous algorithm will produce large localization error in the process of localization, an improved localization algorithm is proposed in this paper to solve the problem. The improved algorithm introduces the received signal strength threshold to modify the minimum hop from the unknown node to the beacon node. Then, Back Propagation (BP) algorithm is introduced to optimize the threshold and reduce the localization error. The simulation results show that the localization accuracy of the improved algorithm is higher than that of other algorithms and the energy consumption does not increase too much.
The Utility of 3D Left Atrial Volume and Mitral Flow Velocities as Guides for Acute Volume Resuscitation
Authors: Santosa Claudia M. , Rose David D. , Fleming Neal W.
Published: July 2015

Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) is the foundation of cardiac function assessment. Because of difficulties and risks associated with its direct measurement, correlates of LVEDP derived by pulmonary artery (PA) catheterization or transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) are commonly adopted. TEE has the advantage of being less invasive; however TEE-based estimation of LVEDP using correlates such as left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) has technical difficulties that limit its clinical usefulness. Using intraoperative acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) as a controlled hemorrhagic model, we examined various mitral flow parameters and three-dimensional reconstructions of left atrial volume as surrogates of LVEDP. Our results demonstrate that peak E wave velocity and left atrial end-diastolic volume (LAEDV) correlated with known changes in intravascular volume associated with ANH. Although left atrial volumetric analysis was done offline in our study, recent advances in echocardiographic software may allow for continuous display and real-time calculation of LAEDV. Along with the ease and reproducibility of acquiring Doppler images of flow across the mitral valve, these two correlates of LVEDP may justify a more widespread use of TEE to optimize intraoperative fluid management. The clinical applicability of peak E wave velocity and LAEDV still needs to be validated during uncontrolled resuscitation.
Carqueja (Baccharis trimera) Protects against Oxidative Stress andβ-Amyloid-Induced Toxicity inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Aparecida Paiva Franciny , de Freitas Bonomo Larissa , Ferreira Boasquivis Patrícia , Borges Raposo de Paula Igor Thadeu , Guerra Joyce Ferreira da Costa , Mendes Leal Wagney , Silva Marcelo Eustáquio , Pedrosa Maria Lúcia , Oliveira Riva de Paula
Published: July 2015

Carqueja (Baccharis trimera) is a native plant found throughout South America. Several studies have shown that Carqueja has antioxidant activityin vitro, as well as anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, analgesic, antihepatotoxic, and antimutagenic properties. However, studies regarding its antioxidant potentialin vivoare limited. In this study, we usedCaenorhabditis elegansas a model to examine the antioxidant effects of a Carqueja hydroalcoholic extract (CHE) on stress resistance and lifespan and to investigate whether CHE has a protective effect in aC. elegansmodel for Alzheimer's disease. Here, we show for the first time, usingin vivoassays, that CHE treatment improved oxidative stress resistance by increasing survival rate and by reducing ROS levels under oxidative stress conditions independently of the stress-related signaling pathways (p38, JNK, and ERK) and transcription factors (SKN-1/Nrf and DAF-16/Foxo) tested here. CHE treatment also increased the defenses againstβ-amyloid toxicity inC. elegans, in part by increasing proteasome activity and the expression of two heat shock protein genes. Our findings suggest a potential neuroprotective use for Carqueja, supporting the idea that dietary antioxidants are a promising approach to boost the defensive systems against stress and neurodegeneration.
Nondestructive Detection of Valves Using Acoustic Emission Technique
Authors: Yan Jin , Heng-hu Yang , Hong Yang , Feng Zhang , Zhen Liu , Ping Wang , Yan Yang
Published: July 2015

The applications of acoustic emission (AE) technique in detection of valves are presented in this review, and the theoretical models and experimental results of nondestructive detection of valves using AE are provided. The generation of AE signals and the basic composition of AE detection system are briefly explained. The applications of AE technique in valves are focused on condition monitoring, failure, cavitation detection, and the development of portable measuring devices. All results prove that the AE technique works well in the detection of valves.
The Effects of Human Resource Capability and Internal Customer Satisfaction on Organizational Effectiveness
Authors: Chuang Huan-Ming , Liu Mao-Jen , Chen You-Shyang
Published: July 2015

Human resource capability is valuable, rare, irreplaceable, and difficult to imitate; therefore, it is crucial for creating sustainable competitive advantages. Human resource capability can be appropriately used to improve the performance of an organization. This study adopted a process perspective to propose an integrated model that comprehensively considers the key variables of human resource capability and organizational effectiveness. In addition, empirical research was conducted by using a state-owned Company-A as an example. The theory of service-profit chain posits that internal customer satisfaction and loyalty influences customer satisfaction and loyalty before affecting a company's profitability and growth. Consequently, we explore the effects of human resource capability, internal customer satisfaction and commitment, and organizational effectiveness. Based on research findings, insightful and practical guidance is suggested for leveraging human resource capability to enhance organizational performance.
The Effect of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Conditioned Media Topically Delivered in Fibrin Glue on Chronic Wound Healing in Rats
Authors: Mehanna Radwa A. , Nabil Iman , Attia Noha , Bary Amany A. , Razek Khalid A. , Ahmed Tamer A. E. , Elsayed Fatma
Published: July 2015

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) represent a modern approach for management of chronic skin injuries. In this work, we describe BM-MSCs application versus their conditioned media (CM) when delivered topically admixed with fibrin glue to enhance the healing of chronic excisional wounds in rats. Fifty-two adult male rats were classified into four groups after induction of large-sized full-thickness skin wound: control group (CG), fibrin only group (FG), fibrin + MSCs group (FG + SCs), and fibrin + CM group (FG + CM). Healing wounds were evaluated functionally and microscopically. Eight days after injury, number of CD68+ macrophages infiltrating granulation tissue was considerably higher in the latter two groups. Although—later—none of the groups depicted a substantially different healing rate, the quality of regenerated skin was significantly boosted by the application of either BM-MSCs or their CM both (1) structurally as demonstrated by the obviously increased mean area percent of collagen fibers in Masson’s trichrome-stained skin biopsies and (2) functionally as supported by the interestingly improved epidermal barrier as well as dermal tensile strength. Thus, we conclude that topically applied BM-MSCs and their CM—via fibrin vehicle—could effectively improve the quality of healed skin in chronic excisional wounds in rats, albeit without true acceleration of wound closure.
Preparative Purification of Liriodendrin fromSargentodoxa cuneataby Macroporous Resin
Authors: Li Di-Hua , Wang Yan , Lv Yuan-Shan , Liu Jun-Hong , Yang Lei , Zhang Shu-Kun , Zhuo Yu-Zhen
Published: July 2015

The preparative purification of liriodendrin fromSargentodoxa cuneatausing macroporous resin combined with crystallization process was evaluated. The properties of adsorption/desorption of liriodendrin on eight macroporous resins were investigated systematically. X-5 resin was selected as the most suitable medium for liriodendrin purification. The adsorption of liriodendrin on X-5 resin fitted well with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model. Dynamic adsorption/desorption tests were performed using a glass column packed with X-5 resin to optimize the separation process of liriodendrin. After one treatment with X-5 resin, the content of liriodendrin in the product was increased 48.73-fold, from 0.85% to 41.42%, with a recovery yield of 88.9%. 97.48% liriodendrin was obtained by further crystallization and determined by HPLC. The purified product possessed strong antioxidant activity. In conclusion, purification of liriodendrin might expend its further pharmacological researches and further applications in pharmacy.
Paraganglioma Presenting as Postpartum Fever of Unknown Origin
Authors: Narechania Shraddha , Bath Amrita , Ghassemi Laleh , Lokhande Chetan , Haddad Abdo , Yousuf Ali Mir , Marquard Jessica , Gopalakrishna K. V.
Published: July 2015

A young healthy postpartum mother presented with intermittent high fevers and tachycardia. Appropriate testing was done to rule out infectious causes including pan cultures but no identifiable infectious source was found. A CT of the abdomen showed a retroperitoneal mass with two small pulmonary nodules and a bony metastatic lesion. She was found to have stage 4 extra-adrenal paraganglioma with metastases to the lungs and spine. She underwent resection of the mass and is currently undergoing palliative radiation to the spine for pain control. Subsequent genetic testing identified a likely pathogenic variant inSDHB, confirming a diagnosis of Hereditary Paraganglioma-Pheochromocytoma syndrome.
Immunohistochemical Expression of Collagens in the Skin of Horses Treated with Leukocyte-Poor Platelet-Rich Plasma
Authors: Souza Maria Verônica de , Silva Mariana Brettas , Pinto José de Oliveira , Lima Marianna Barros de Souza , Crepaldi Júlio , Lopes Gabriela Francine Martins , Santos Hélio Batista dos , Ribeiro Rosy Iara Maciel de Azambuja , Thomé Ralph Gruppi
Published: July 2015

This study evaluated the immunohistochemical expression of type I (COL I) and III (COL III) collagens during the healing process of skin treated with leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma (LP-PRP). Seven healthy gelding crossbred horses aged 16 to 17 years were used. Two rectangle-shaped wounds were created surgically in the right and left gluteal regions. Twelve hours after wound induction, 0.5 mL of the LP-PRP was administered in each edge of the wounds of one of the gluteal regions. The contralateral region was used as control (CG). Three samples were obtained: after wound induction (T0), 14 days (T1) of healing process, and after complete closure of the skin (T2). The normal skin (T0) showed strong staining for type III and I collagen in papillary and reticular dermis, respectively. In the scar of the treated group, COL III showed important (p<0.05) increase in immunoreaction in T2 compared with T1. The administration of a single dose of LP-PRP 12 h after induction of wound in horses does not influence formation of collagens I and III. However, the intense labeling for COL III suggests that the tissue was still weak during the macroscopic closure of the wound, demonstrating that healing was not completely finished.
On Certain Subclasses of Analytic Multivalent Functions Using Generalized Salagean Operator
Authors: Alamoush Adnan Ghazy , Darus Maslina
Published: July 2015

We introduce and study two subclasses of multivalent functions denoted byMp,nm,α,β,σ(λ1;λ2)andNp,nm,α,β,σ(μ,δ;γ). Further, by using the method of differential subordination, certain inclusion relations between the two subclasses aforementioned are given. Moreover, several consequences of the main results are also discussed.
Development of Miniature Stewart Platform Using TiNiCu Shape-Memory-Alloy Actuators
Authors: AbuZaiter Alaa , Ng Ee Leen , Kazi Suhail , Mohamed Ali Mohamed Sultan
Published: July 2015

A Stewart platform is a parallel manipulator robot that is able to perform three linear movements, lateral, longitudinal, and vertical, and three rotations, pitch, yaw, and roll. This paper reports a 30 mm × 30 mm × 34 mm miniscale Stewart platform using TiNiCu shape-memory-alloy (SMA) actuators. The proposed Stewart platform possesses various advantages, such as large actuation force and high robustness with a simple mechanical structure. This Stewart platform uses four SMA actuators and four bias springs and performs a linearz-axis movement and tilting motions. The SMA actuators are activated by passing a current through the SMA wires using a heating circuit that generates a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal. This signal is varied to control the level of the displacement and tilting angle of the platform. The tilting direction depends on the SMA actuator that is activated, while all four SMA actuators are activated to achieve the linearz-axis movement. Each SMA actuator exerts a maximum force of 0.6 N at PWM duty cycle of 100%. The fabricated miniature Stewart platform yields a full actuation of 12 mm in thez-axis at 55°C, with a maximum tilting angle of 30° in 4 s.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigations of Wave-Induced Vertical Mixing
Authors: Sulisz Wojciech , Paprota Maciej
Published: July 2015

Theoretical investigations supported by a series of original laboratory experiments are conducted to study a wave-induced vertical mixing process. The derived semi-analytical solution is very efficient and is applied to predict the effects of water waves on the temperature changes and the evolution of temperature profiles. The results indicate that waves increase a mixing process. The rate of change of the temperature is higher when waves contributed to mixing process and this process increases with increasing the wavelength to water depth ratio. The analysis indicates that for typical ocean waves the contribution of water waves to mixing may be several orders of magnitude higher than a corresponding contribution arising from the classical diffusion process. This implies a need to conduct more theoretical studies and experimental investigation on the effect of water waves on mixing processes. A series of original laboratory experiments were conducted in the insulated wave flume to verify the derived model. The comparisons show a reasonable agreement between predicted and measured temperature profiles. A reasonable agreement between theoretical results and experimental data is observed for the whole considered range of initial temperature distributions. The comparisons indicate that the model is applicable even to cases when gradients in temperature distributions over water depth are fairly high.
TERTPolymorphism rs2736100-C Is Associated with EGFR Mutation–Positive Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wei Rongrong , Cao Lan , Pu Hengying , Wang Hongwei , Zheng Yonglan , Niu Xiaomin , Weng Xiaoling , Zhang Hong , Favus Murray J. , Zhang Lanjun , Jia Weihua , Zeng Yixin , Amos Christopher I. , Lu Shun , Wang Hui-Yun , Liu Yun , Liu Wanqing
Published: July 2015

Purpose: EGF receptor (EGFR) mutation–positive (EGFRmut+) non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) may be a unique orphan disease. Previous studies suggested that the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene polymorphism is associated with demographic and clinical features strongly associated with EGFR mutations, for example, adenocarcinoma histology, never-smoking history, and female gender. We aim to test the association between TERT polymorphism and EGFRmut+ NSCLC.

Experimental Design: We conducted a genetic association study in Chinese patients with NSCLC (n = 714) and healthy controls (n = 2,520), between the rs2736100 polymorphism and EGFRmut+ NSCLC. We further tested the association between the EGFR mutation status and mean leukocyte telomere length (LTL). The potential function of rs2736100 in lung epithelial cells was also explored.

Results: The rs2736100-C allele was significantly associated with EGFRmut+ NSCLC [OR, 1.52; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.28–1.80; P = 1.6 × 10−6] but not EGFRmut− NSCLC (OR = 1.07, 95% CI, 0.92–1.24, P = 0.4). While patients with NSCLC as a whole have significantly longer LTL than healthy controls (P ≤ 10−13), the EGFRmut+ patients have even longer LTL than EGFRmut− patients (P = 0.008). Meanwhile, rs2736100 was significantly associated with TERT mRNA expression in both normal and tumor lung tissues. All results remained significant after controlling for age, gender, smoking status, and histology (P < 0.05 for all tests). Moreover, the rs2736100 DNA sequence has an allele-specific affinity to nuclear proteins extracted from lung epithelial cells, which led to an altered enhancer activity of the sequence in vitro.

Conclusions: Our study suggests that telomerase and telomere function may be essential for carcinogenesis of EGFRmut+ NSCLC. Further investigation for the underlying mechanism is warranted. Clin Cancer Res; 21(22); 5173–80. ©2015 AACR.
Effect of the Combination of Hemodialysis and Hemoperfusion on Clearing Advanced Glycation End Products: A Prospective, Randomized, Two-Stage Crossover Trial in Patients Under Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Zhang Yu , Mei Chang-Lin , Rong Shu , Liu Yuan-Yuan , Xiao Guan-Qing , Shao Yong-Hong , Kong Yao-Zhong
Published: July 2015

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are protein-bound uremic toxins and are elevated in patients with the end-stage of renal disease. The present study sought to develop an effective method to remove the circulating AGEs from patients using the combination of hemodialysis (HD) and hemoperfusion (HP). Thirty-six patients undergoing maintenance HD for 3 months were randomly divided into two groups. Patients in Group 1 received HD, followed by the combined HP + HD treatment once, whereas patients in Group 2 were first treated with HP + HD and then they received the HD treatment alone. Patients treated with HD alone did not alter higher levels of serum AGEs. In contrast, patients treated with the combined HP + HD exhibited significantly lower levels of serum AGEs and TNF-α. Results from this study demonstrate that the combination of HD + HP treatment may be an effective and better approach to remove the protein-bound uremic toxins and inflammatory cytokines.