bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerometer Derived Activity Counts and Oxygen Consumption between Young and Older Individuals
Authors: Whitcher Lucas , Papadopoulos Charilaos
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this investigation was to compare accelerometer activity counts and oxygen consumption between young and elderly individuals. Sixteen young (21.3±2.5 yrs) and sixteen elderly (66.6±2.9 yrs) participants completed 30 minutes of resting oxygen consumption to determine resting metabolic rate and four 6 min walking intensities ranging from 27 to 94 m·min−1. Resting oxygen uptake was significantly lower for the older participants. Exercise oxygen consumption was significantly higher for the elderly group. There were no significant differences in activity counts between groups at each of the exercise intensities. When using measured resting metabolic rate, activity counts of 824 and 2207 counts·min−1were associated with moderate (3 METs) physical activity intensity for the older and young participants, respectively. However, using standard resting metabolic rate (3.5 mL·kg−1·min−1), activity counts of 784 and 2009 counts·min−1were associated with moderate physical activity intensity for the elderly and young participants, respectively. These findings indicate that activity counts are similar across age groups even though the oxygen consumption of exercise is greater among elderly individuals.
Mortality in Patients on Renal Replacement Therapy and Permanent Cardiac Pacemakers
Authors: Vanerio Gabriel , García Cristina , González Carlota , Ferreiro Alejandro
Published: May 2014

End stage renal disease is a relatively frequent disease with high mortality due to cardiac causes. Permanent pacemaker (PM) implantation rates are also very common; thus combination of both conditions is not unusual. We hypothesized that patients with chronic kidney disease with a PM would have significantly higher mortality rates compared with end stage renal disease patients without PM. Our objectives were to analyze mortality of patients on renal replacement therapy with PM. 2778 patients were on renal replacement therapy (RRT) and 110 had a PM implanted during the study period. To reduce the confounding effects of covariates, a propensity-matched score was performed. 52 PM patients and 208 non-PM matched patients were compared. 41% of the PM were implanted before entering the RRT program and 59% while on RRT. Mortality was higher in the PM group. Cardiovascular disease and infections were the most frequent causes of death. Propensity analysis showed no differences in long-term mortality between groups. We concluded that in patients on RRT and PM mortality rates are higher. Survival curves did not differ from a RRT propensity-matched group. We concluded that the presence of a PM is not an independent mortality risk factor in RRT patients.
A Rare Sequela of Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Kodadhala Vijay , Devulapalli Saravana , Kurukumbi Mohankumar , Jayam-Trouth Annapurni
Published: May 2014

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis is a demyelinating disease, typically occurring in children following a febrile infection or a vaccination. Primary and secondary immune responses contribute to inflammation and subsequent demyelination, but the exact pathogenesis is still unknown. Diagnosis of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis is strongly suggested by temporal relationship between an infection or an immunization and the onset of neurological symptoms. Biopsy is definitive. In general, the disease is self-limiting and the prognostic outcome is favorable with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents. Locked-in syndrome describes patients who are awake and conscious but have no means of producing limb, speech, or facial movements. Locked-in syndrome is a rare complication of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. We present a case of incomplete locked-in syndrome occurring in a 34-year-old male secondary to acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Our case is unique, as acute disseminated encephalomyelitis occurred in a 34-year-old which was poorly responsive to immunosuppression resulting in severe disability.
enDNA-Prot: Identification of DNA-Binding Proteins by Applying Ensemble Learning
Authors: Xu Ruifeng , Zhou Jiyun , Liu Bin , Yao Lin , He Yulan , Zou Quan , Wang Xiaolong
Published: May 2014

DNA-binding proteins are crucial for various cellular processes, such as recognition of specific nucleotide, regulation of transcription, and regulation of gene expression. Developing an effective model for identifying DNA-binding proteins is an urgent research problem. Up to now, many methods have been proposed, but most of them focus on only one classifier and cannot make full use of the large number of negative samples to improve predicting performance. This study proposed a predictor called enDNA-Prot for DNA-binding protein identification by employing the ensemble learning technique. Experiential results showed that enDNA-Prot was comparable with DNA-Prot and outperformed DNAbinder and iDNA-Prot with performance improvement in the range of 3.97–9.52% in ACC and 0.08–0.19 in MCC. Furthermore, when the benchmark dataset was expanded with negative samples, the performance of enDNA-Prot outperformed the three existing methods by 2.83–16.63% in terms of ACC and 0.02–0.16 in terms of MCC. It indicated that enDNA-Prot is an effective method for DNA-binding protein identification and expanding training dataset with negative samples can improve its performance. For the convenience of the vast majority of experimental scientists, we developed a user-friendly web-server for enDNA-Prot which is freely accessible to the public.
Temperature Control of Gas Chromatograph Based on Switched Delayed System Techniques
Authors: Wang Xiao-Liang , Zhang Ming-Xu , Liu Kun-Zhi , Sun Xi-Ming
Published: May 2014

We address the temperature control problem of the gas chromatograph. We model the temperature control system of the gas chromatograph into a switched delayed system and analyze the stability by common Lyapunov functional technique. The PI controller parameters can be given based on the proposed linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) condition and the designed controller can make the temperature of gas chromatograph track the reference signal asymptotically. An experiment is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the stability criterion.
An Estimation Method of Water Drive Displacement Based on Formation Permeability Distribution and Inverse Problem Modeling
Authors: Huang Rui , Wu Xiaodong , Wang Ruihe , Li Hui
Published: May 2014

Formation permeability distribution is important in the oil industry since it is a key tool in forecasting oil production performance, a matter of primary concern to oilfield operators. However, the direct problems of reservoir analysis are limited in practice by a lack of input parameters such as reservoir vertical heterogeneity. Therefore, inverse problem modeling is important to achieve reservoir vertical heterogeneity using production profiles, which are always known for existing reservoirs. In this way, what has occurred inside a reservoir can be understood by applying reservoir output in the reverse model. Because formation permeability can frequently be represented by a normal distribution and can describe heterogeneity and water production capability, an inverse problem of formation permeability was modeled to study reservoir vertical heterogeneity and reservoir production performance based on oil-water two-fluid flow theory and optimization problems. Moreover, through establishing an objective function, we obtained an optimal solution for water production rate. Finally, one case is simulated by this model and good results achieved, which are compatible with production and experimental data.
Stability and Bifurcation for a Simply Supported Functionally Graded Material Plate with One-to-One Internal Resonance
Authors: Zhang Dongmei , Chen Fangqi
Published: May 2014

Stability and bifurcation behaviors for a model of simply supported functionally graded materials rectangular plate subjected to the transversal and in-plane excitations are studied by means of combination of analytical and numerical methods. The resonant case considered here is 1 : 1 internal resonances and primary parametric resonance. Two types of degenerated equilibrium points are studied in detail, which are characterized by a double zero and two negative eigenvalues, and a double zero and a pair of pure imaginary eigenvalues. For each case, the stability regions of the initial equilibrium solution and the critical bifurcation curves are obtained in terms of the system parameters which may lead to Hopf bifurcation and 2D torus. With both analytical and numerical methods, bifurcation behaviors on damping parameters and detuning parameters are studied, respectively. A time integration scheme is used to find the numerical solutions for these bifurcation cases, and numerical results agree with the analytic predictions.
Positive Solutions of a Singular Nonlocal Fractional Order Differential System via Schauder’s Fixed Point Theorem
Authors: Zhang Xinguang , Mao Cuiling , Wu Yonghong , Su Hua
Published: May 2014

We establish the existence of positive solutions to a class of singular nonlocal fractional order differential system depending on two parameters. Our methods are based on Schauder’s fixed point theorem.
Master-Slave Control Scheme in Electric Vehicle Smart Charging Infrastructure
Authors: Chung Ching-Yen , Chynoweth Joshua , Chu Chi-Cheng , Gadh Rajit
Published: May 2014

WINSmartEV is a software based plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) monitoring, control, and management system. It not only incorporates intelligence at every level so that charge scheduling can avoid grid bottlenecks, but it also multiplies the number of PEVs that can be plugged into a single circuit. This paper proposes, designs, and executes many upgrades to WINSmartEV. These upgrades include new hardware that makes the level 1 and level 2 chargers faster, more robust, and more scalable. It includes algorithms that provide a more optimal charge scheduling for the level 2 (EVSE) and an enhanced vehicle monitoring/identification module (VMM) system that can automatically identify PEVs and authorize charging.
Microstructure and Superparamagnetic Properties of Mg‐Ni‐Cd Ferrites Nanoparticles
Authors: Eltabey M. M. , Massoud A. M. , Radu Cosmin
Published: May 2014

Magnesium substituted nickel cadmium ferrite nanoparticles MgxNi0.6−xCd0.4Fe2O4 (from x = 0 to 0.6 with step 0.1) have been synthesized by the chemical coprecipitation route. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed that the obtained powders have a single phase of cubic spinel structure. The crystallite sizes calculated from XRD data have been confirmed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showing that the powders are consisting of nanosized grains with an average size range 5–1.5 nm. Magnetic hysteresis loops were traced at 6.5 K as well as at room temperature using VSM. It was found that, due to the Mg2+‐ions substitution, the values of saturation magnetization Ms for the investigated samples were decreased, whereas the coercive field Hc increased. Both zero field cooling (ZFC) and field cooling (FC) curves are measured in the temperature range (6.5–350 K) and the values of blocking temperature TB were determined. No considerable variation in the values of TB was observed with increasing Mg‐content, whereas the values of the effective anisotropy constant Keff were increased.
XRCC1Arg399Gln and Arg194Trp Polymorphisms and Risk of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in an Iranian Population: A Pilot Study
Authors: Salimi Saeedeh , Mohammadoo-khorasani Milad , Tabatabai Ehsan , Sandoughi Mahnaz , Zakeri Zahra , Naghavi Anoosh
Published: May 2014

Background. Evidences are suggesting that DNA damage is implicated in development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Therefore we focused on two commonXRCC1polymorphisms (Arg399Gln and Arg194Trp) in SLE susceptibility in South East of Iran.Methods. Peripheral blood DNA was extracted from 163 SLE patients and 180 healthy controls. PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism method was used for genotyping ofXRCC1Arg399Gln and Arg194Trp polymorphisms.Results. The frequency of Arg/Gln genotype of theXRCC1Arg399Gln polymorphism was significantly lower in SLE patients than controls. Moreover, lower frequency of Arg/Gln genotype was found in SLE patients with malar rash compared to patients without this manifestation. No association was observed betweenXRCC1Arg194Trp polymorphism and increased risk of SLE in studied population. Haplotype analysis revealed no correlation between four haplotypes ofXRCC1Arg399Gln and Arg194Trp polymorphisms and SLE risk.Conclusion. These findings suggest thatXRCC1399 Arg/Gln heterozygous genotype plays a protective role in SLE susceptibility.
An Association Study between Genetic Polymorphism in the Interleukin-6 Receptor Gene and Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Zhou Jiangqing , Chen Xiaoliang , Ye Huadan , Peng Ping , Ba Yanna , Yang Xi , Huang Xiaoyan , Lu Yae , Jiang Xin , Lian Jiangfang , Duan Shiwei
Published: May 2014

The goal of our study is to test the association of IL6R rs7529229 polymorphism with CHD through a case-control study in Han Chinese population and a meta-analysis. Our result showed there is a lack of association between IL6R rs7529229 polymorphism and CHD on both genotype and allele levels in Han Chinese (P>0.05). However, a meta-analysis among 11678 cases and 12861 controls showed that rs7529229-C allele was significantly associated with a decreased risk of CHD, especially in Europeans (P<0.0001, odds ratio = 0.93, 95% confidential interval = 0.89–0.96). Since there is significant difference among different populations, further studies are warranted to test the contribution of rs7529229 to CHD in other ethnic populations.
Laboratory Markers of Ventricular Arrhythmia Risk in Renal Failure
Authors: Mozos Ioana
Published: May 2014

Sudden cardiac death continues to be a major public health problem. Ventricular arrhythmia is a main cause of sudden cardiac death. The present review addresses the links between renal function tests, several laboratory markers, and ventricular arrhythmia risk in patients with renal disease, undergoing or not hemodialysis or renal transplant, focusing on recent clinical studies. Therapy of hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, and hypomagnesemia should be an emergency and performed simultaneously under electrocardiographic monitoring in patients with renal failure. Serum phosphates and iron, PTH level, renal function, hemoglobin and hematocrit, pH, inflammatory markers, proteinuria and microalbuminuria, and osmolarity should be monitored, besides standard 12-lead ECG, in order to prevent ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death.
Attribute Selection Impact on Linear and Nonlinear Regression Models for Crop Yield Prediction
Authors: Gonzalez-Sanchez Alberto , Frausto-Solis Juan , Ojeda-Bustamante Waldo
Published: May 2014

Efficient cropping requires yield estimation for each involved crop, where data-driven models are commonly applied. In recent years, some data-driven modeling technique comparisons have been made, looking for the best model to yield prediction. However, attributes are usually selected based on expertise assessment or in dimensionality reduction algorithms. A fairer comparison should include the best subset of features for each regression technique; an evaluation including several crops is preferred. This paper evaluates the most common data-driven modeling techniques applied to yield prediction, using a complete method to define the best attribute subset for each model. Multiple linear regression, stepwise linear regression, M5′ regression trees, and artificial neural networks (ANN) were ranked. The models were built using real data of eight crops sowed in an irrigation module of Mexico. To validate the models, three accuracy metrics were used: the root relative square error (RRSE), relative mean absolute error (RMAE), and correlation factor (R). The results show that ANNs are more consistent in the best attribute subset composition between the learning and the training stages, obtaining the lowest average RRSE (86.04%), lowest average RMAE (8.75%), and the highest average correlation factor (0.63).
SVEIRS: A New Epidemic Disease Model with Time Delays and Impulsive Effects
Authors: Zhang Tongqian , Meng Xinzhu , Zhang Tonghua
Published: May 2014

We first propose a new epidemic disease model governed by system of impulsive delay differential equations. Then, based on theories for impulsive delay differential equations, we skillfully solve the difficulty in analyzing the global dynamical behavior of the model with pulse vaccination and impulsive population input effects at two different periodic moments. We prove the existence and global attractivity of the “infection-free” periodic solution and also the permanence of the model. We then carry out numerical simulations to illustrate our theoretical results, showing us that time delay, pulse vaccination, and pulse population input can exert a significant influence on the dynamics of the system which confirms the availability of pulse vaccination strategy for the practical epidemic prevention. Moreover, it is worth pointing out that we obtained an epidemic control strategy for controlling the number of population input.
Energy Preserved Sampling for Compressed Sensing MRI
Authors: Zhang Yudong , Peterson Bradley S. , Ji Genlin , Dong Zhengchao
Published: May 2014

The sampling patterns, cost functions, and reconstruction algorithms play important roles in optimizing compressed sensing magnetic resonance imaging (CS-MRI). Simple random sampling patterns did not take into account the energy distribution ink-space and resulted in suboptimal reconstruction of MR images. Therefore, a variety of variable density (VD) based samplings patterns had been developed. To further improve it, we propose a novel energy preserving sampling (ePRESS) method. Besides, we improve the cost function by introducing phase correction and region of support matrix, and we propose iterative thresholding algorithm (ITA) to solve the improved cost function. We evaluate the proposed ePRESS sampling method, improved cost function, and ITA reconstruction algorithm by 2D digital phantom and 2Din vivoMR brains of healthy volunteers. These assessments demonstrate that the proposed ePRESS method performs better than VD, POWER, and BKO; the improved cost function can achieve better reconstruction quality than conventional cost function; and the ITA is faster than SISTA and is competitive with FISTA in terms of computation time.
Effectiveness of Using Online Discussion Forum for Case Study Analysis
Authors: Seethamraju Ravi
Published: May 2014

Business schools are exploring new pedagogical approaches to learning in order to deal with challenges such as increased class sizes, limited funding support, and difficulties in facilitating and encouraging active participation and learning among a diverse cohort of students. This paper reports on a study of the effectiveness of a pedagogical approach that blends online discussion board and case study. Analysing quantity and quality of online postings and comparing accounting students’ performance with previous cohort, this study observes a significant improvement in student learning. Appropriate design and delivery strategies and clear assessment criteria for assessment and use have provided an effective learning vehicle for students, helped them overcome their own language related barriers, and encouraged them to participate in a nonthreatening environment. This approach further complemented the benefits of peer-to-peer learning and case study pedagogy. Reported increase in workload for students and marking load for academics and measuring the value of learning, however, are some of the challenges that need further attention by researchers.
Formulation of Indomethacin Colon Targeted Delivery Systems Using Polysaccharides as Carriers by Applying Liquisolid Technique
Authors: Elkhodairy Kadria A. , Elsaghir Hanna A. , Al-Subayiel Amal M.
Published: May 2014

The present study aimed at the formulation of matrix tablets for colon-specific drug delivery (CSDD) system of indomethacin (IDM) by applying liquisolid (LS) technique. A CSDD system based on time-dependent polymethacrylates and enzyme degradable polysaccharides was established. Eudragit RL 100 (E-RL 100) was employed as time-dependent polymer, whereas bacterial degradable polysaccharides were presented as LS systems loaded with the drug. Indomethacin-loaded LS systems were prepared using different polysaccharides, namely, guar gum (GG), pectin (PEC), and chitosan (CH), as carriers separately or in mixtures of different ratios of 1 : 3, 1 : 1, and 3 : 1. Liquisolid systems that displayed promising results concerning drug release rate in both pH 1.2 and pH 6.8 were compressed into tablets after the addition of the calculated amount of E-RL 100 and lubrication with magnesium stearate and talc in the ratio of 1 : 9. It was found that E-RL 100 improved the flowability and compressibility of all LS formulations. The release data revealed that all formulations succeeded to sustain drug release over a period of 24 hours. Stability study indicated that PEC-based LS system as well as its matrix tablets was stable over the period of storage (one year) and could provide a minimum shelf life of two years.
Electrohydrodynamic Direct‐Write Orderly Micro/Nanofibrous Structure on Flexible Insulating Substrate
Authors: Zheng Jiang-Yi , Liu Hai-Yan , Wang Xiang , Zhao Yang , Huang Wei-Wei , Zheng Gao-Feng , Sun Dao-Heng
Published: May 2014

AC pulse‐modulated electrohydrodynamic direct‐writing (EDW) was utilized to direct‐write orderly micro/nanofibrous structure on the flexible insulating polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. During the EDW process, AC electrical field induced charges to reciprocate along the jet and decreased the charge repulsive force that applied on charged jet. Thanks to the smaller charge repulsive force, stable straight jet can be built up to direct‐write orderly micro/nanofibrous structures on the insulating substrate. The minimum motion velocity required to direct‐write straight line fibrous structure on insulating PET substrate was 700 mm/s. Moreover, the influences of AC voltage amplitude, frequency, and duty cycle ratio on the line width of fibrous structures were investigated. This work proposes a novel solution to overcome the inherent charge repulsion emerging on the insulating substrate, and promotes the application of EDW technology on the flexible electronics.
Effects of Silicon on Photosynthetic Characteristics of Maize (Zea maysL.) on Alluvial Soil
Authors: Xie Zhiming , Song Fengbin , Xu Hongwen , Shao Hongbo , Song Ri
Published: May 2014

The objectives of the study were to determine the effects of silicon on photosynthetic characteristics of maize on alluvial soil, including total chlorophyll contents, photosynthetic ratePn, stomatal conductancegs, transpiration rate (E), and intercellular CO2concentrationCiusing the method of field experiment, in which there were five levels (0, 45, 90, 150, and 225 kg·ha−1) of silicon supplying. The results showed that certain doses of silicon fertilizers can be used successfully in increasing the values of total chlorophyll contents,Pn, andgsand decreasing the values ofEandCiof maize leaves, which meant that photosynthetic efficiency of maize was significantly increased in different growth stages by proper doses of Si application on alluvial soil, and the optimal dose of Si application was 150 kg·ha−1. Our results indicated that silicon in proper amounts can be beneficial in increasing the photosynthetic ability of maize, which would be helpful for the grain yield and growth of maize.
Synthesis and Anticancer Activity ofN-Aryl-5-substituted-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-amine Analogues
Authors: Ahsan Mohamed Jawed , Sharma Jyotika , Singh Monika , Jadav Surender Singh , Yasmin Sabina
Published: May 2014

In continuance of our search for anticancer agents, we report herein the synthesis and anticancer activity of some novel oxadiazole analogues. The compounds were screened for anticancer activity as per National Cancer Institute (NCI US) protocol on leukemia, melanoma, lung, colon, CNS, ovarian, renal, prostate, and breast cancers cell lines.N-(2,4-Dimethylphenyl)-5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-amine (4s) showed maximum activity with mean growth percent (GP) of 62.61 and was found to be the most sensitive on MDA-MB-435 (melanoma), K-562 (leukemia), T-47D (breast cancer), and HCT-15 (colon cancer) cell lines with GP of 15.43, 18.22, 34.27, and 39.77, respectively. Maximum GP was observed on MDA-MB-435 (melanoma) cell line (GP=6.82) by compoundN-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-5-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-amine (4u).
An Approach for Simple Linear Profile Gauge R&R Studies
Authors: Shi Liangxing , Chen Wei , Lu Liang Fu
Published: May 2014

Gauge repeatability and reproducibility studies are significant to quality improvement and quality control. The approaches are always applied to determine the capability of the measurement system. Much of the literature in this field mainly focuses on univariate and multivariate measurement systems. However, the state-of-the-art methods are not appropriate when the quality of a product is characterized by a profile. Therefore, this paper proposes a method for the measured values which can be characterized by a simple linear profile. In addition, the slopes and intercepts of these profiles often vary due to measurement error. Thus, the simple linear profile gauge studies can be considered as a two-response (slope and intercept) problem.X-values transformation is used to make the slope and intercept of each profile independent. ANOVA is utilized to estimate the variance component of measurement error and other sources of variation. Then, the criteria precision to tolerance ratio and percent R&R are introduced to assess the simple linear profile measurement system capability. Finally, the proposed approach is applied to the spring length and elasticity measurement which demonstrates how to implement the method.
Use of Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Microextraction and UV-Vis Spectrophotometry for the Determination of Cadmium in Water Samples
Authors: Pérez-Outeiral J. , Millán E. , Garcia-Arrona R.
Published: May 2014

A simple and inexpensive method for cadmium determination in water using dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry was developed. In order to obtain the best experimental conditions, experimental design was applied. Calibration was made in the range of 10–100 μg/L, obtaining good linearity (R2 = 0.9947). The obtained limit of detection based on calibration curve was 8.5 μg/L. Intra- and interday repeatability were checked at two levels, obtaining relative standard deviation values from 9.0 to 13.3%. The enrichment factor had a value of 73. Metal interferences were also checked and tolerable limits were evaluated. Finally, the method was applied to cadmium determination in real spiked water samples. Therefore, the method showed potential applicability for cadmium determination in highly contaminated liquid samples.
Data Fusion of Electronic Nose and Electronic Tongue for Detection of Mixed Edible-Oil
Authors: Men Hong , Chen Donglin , Zhang Xiaoting , Liu Jingjing , Ning Ke
Published: May 2014

For the problem of the waste of the edible-oil in the food processing, on the premise of food security, they often need to add new edible-oil to the old frying oil which had been used in food processing to control the cost of the production. Due to the fact that the different additive proportion of the oil has different material and different volatile gases, we use fusion technology based on the electronic nose and electronic tongue to detect the blending ratio of the old frying oil and the new edible-oil in this paper. Principal component analysis (PCA) is used to distinguish the different proportion of the old frying oil and new edible-oil; on the other hand we use partial least squares (PLS) to predict the blending ratio of the old frying oil and new edible-oil. Two conclusions were proposed: data fusion of electronic nose and electronic tongue can be used to detect the blending ratio of the old frying oil and new edible-oil; in contrast to single used electronic nose or single used electronic tongue, the detection effect has increased by using data fusion of electronic nose and electronic tongue.
Nonexistence of Global Solutions to the Initial Boundary Value Problem for the Singularly Perturbed Sixth-Order Boussinesq-Type Equation
Authors: Song Changming , Li Jina , Gao Ran
Published: May 2014

We are concerned with the singularly perturbed Boussinesq-type equation including the singularly perturbed sixth-order Boussinesq equation, which describes the bidirectional propagation of small amplitude and long capillary-gravity waves on the surface of shallow water for bond number (surface tension parameter) less than but very close to 1/3. The nonexistence of global solution to the initial boundary value problem for the singularly perturbed Boussinesq-type equation is discussed and two examples are given.
Percutaneous Extraction of Transvenous Permanent Pacemaker/Defibrillator Leads
Authors: Paraskevaidis Stylianos , Konstantinou Dimitrios , Vassilikos Vassilios , Theofilogiannakos Efstratios , Mantziari Lilian , Megarisiotou Athanasia , Galitsianos Ioannis , Karvounis Charalambos
Published: May 2014

Background. Widespread use of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices has inevitably increased the need for lead revision/replacement. We report our experience in percutaneous extraction of transvenous permanent pacemaker/defibrillator leads.Methods.Thirty-six patients admitted to our centre from September 2005 through October 2012 for percutaneous lead extraction were included. Lead removal was attempted using Spectranetics traction-type system (Spectranetics Corp., Colorado, CO, USA) and VascoExtor countertraction-type system (Vascomed GmbH, Weil am Rhein, Germany).Results.Lead extraction was attempted in 59 leads from 36 patients (27 men), mean ± SD age61±5years, with permanent pacemaker(n=25), defibrillator(n=8), or cardiac resynchronisation therapy(n=3)with a mean ± SD implant duration of50±23months. The indications for lead removal included pocket infection(n=23), endocarditis(n=2), and ventricular(n=10)and atrial lead dysfunction(n=1). Traction device was used for 33 leads and countertraction device for 26 leads. Mean ± SD fluoroscopy time was4±2minutes/lead for leads implanted <48 months(n=38)and7±3minutes/lead for leads implanted >48 months(n=21),P=0.03. Complete procedural success rate was 91.7% and clinical procedural success rate was 100%, while lead procedural success rate was 95%.Conclusions.In conclusion, percutaneous extraction of transvenous permanent pacemaker/defibrillator leads using dedicated removal tools is both feasible and safe.
A Systematic Review for Anti‐Inflammatory Property of Clusiaceae Family: A Preclinical Approach
Authors: de Melo Mônica Santos , Quintans Jullyana de Souza Siqueira , Araújo Adriano Antunes de Souza , Duarte Marcelo Cavalcante , Bonjardim Leonardo Rigoldi , Nogueira Paulo Cesar de Lima , Moraes Valéria Regina de Souza , Araújo-Júnior João Xavier de , Ribeiro Êurica Adélia Nogueira , Quintans-Júnior Lucindo José
Published: May 2014

Background. Clusiaceae family (sensu lato) is extensively used in ethnomedicine for treating a number of disease conditions which include cancer, inflammation, and infection. The aim of this review is to report the pharmacological potential of plants of Clusiaceae family with the anti‐inflammatory activity in animal experiments. Methods. A systematic review about experiments investigating anti‐inflammatory activity of Clusiaceae family was carried out by searching bibliographic databases such as Medline, Scopus and Embase. In this update, the search terms were “anti‐inflammatory agents,” “Clusiaceae,” and “animals, laboratory.” Results. A total of 255 publications with plants this family were identified. From the initial 255 studies, a total of 21 studies were selected for the final analysis. Studies with genera Allanblackia, Clusia, Garcinia or Rheedia, and Hypericum showed significant anti‐inflammatory activity. The findings include a decrease of total leukocytes, a number of neutrophils, total protein concentration, granuloma formation, and paw or ear edema formation. Other interesting findings included decreased of the MPO activity, and inflammatory mediators such as NF‐κB and iNOS expression, PGE2 and Il‐1β levels and a decrease in chronic inflammation. Conclusion. The data reported suggests the anti‐inflammatory effect potential of Clusiaceae family in animal experiments.
Quantized State-Feedback Stabilization for Delayed Markovian Jump Linear Systems with Generally Incomplete Transition Rates
Authors: Li Yanbo , Zhang Peng , Kao Yonggui , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: May 2014

This paper is concerned with the robust quantized state-feedback controller design problem for a class of continuous-time Markovian jump linear uncertain systems with general uncertain transition rates and input quantization. The uncertainties under consideration emerge in both system parameters and mode transition rates. This new uncertain model is more general than the existing ones and can be applicable to more practical situations because each transition rate can be completely unknown or only its estimate value is known. Based on linear matrix inequalities, the quantized state-feedback controller is formulated to ensure the closed-loop system is stable in mean square. Finally, a numerical example is presented to verify the validity of the developed theoretical results.
HYEI: A New Hybrid Evolutionary Imperialist Competitive Algorithm for Fuzzy Knowledge Discovery
Authors: Jalal Nouri D. , Saniee Abadeh M. , Ghareh Mohammadi F.
Published: May 2014

In recent years, imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA), genetic algorithm (GA), and hybrid fuzzy classification systems have been successfully and effectively employed for classification tasks of data mining. Due to overcoming the gaps related to ineffectiveness of current algorithms for analysing high-dimension independent datasets, a new hybrid approach, named HYEI, is presented to discover generic rule-based systems in this paper. This proposed approach consists of three stages and combines an evolutionary-based fuzzy system with two ICA procedures to generate high-quality fuzzy-classification rules. Initially, the best feature subset is selected by using the embedded ICA feature selection, and then these features are used to generate basic fuzzy-classification rules. Finally, all rules are optimized by using an ICA algorithm to reduce their length or to eliminate some of them. The performance of HYEI has been evaluated by using several benchmark datasets from the UCI machine learning repository. The classification accuracy attained by the proposed algorithm has the highest classification accuracy in 6 out of the 7 dataset problems and is comparative to the classification accuracy of the 5 other test problems, as compared to the best results previously published.
The Generalized Weaker(α-ϕ-φ)-Contractive Mappings and Related Fixed Point Results in Complete Generalized Metric Spaces
Authors: Alghamdi Maryam A. , Chen Chi-Ming , Karapınar Erdal
Published: May 2014

We introduce the notion of generalized weaker(α-ϕ-φ)-contractive mappings in the context of generalized metric space. We investigate the existence and uniqueness of fixed point of such mappings. Some consequences on existing fixed point theorems are also derived. The presented results generalize, unify, and improve several results in the literature.
Stress relaxation due to ultrasonic impact treatment on multi-pass welds
Authors: Gao H. , Dutta R. K. , Huizenga R. M. , Amirthalingam M. , Hermans M. J. M. , Buslaps T. , Richardson I. M.
Published: May 2014

Ultrasonic impact treatment (UIT) is a relatively novel technique applied to the toe of welded joints to improve the fatigue life by changing the weld geometry and the residual stress state. In this study, the stress relaxation due to ultrasonic impact treatment is investigated on a six pass welded high strength quenched and tempered steel section. Stress measurements in two orthogonal directions were conducted by energy dispersive synchrotron X-ray diffraction. Results show that the application of only ultrasound to a welded component re-distributes the residual stresses more uniformly, while mechanical impacts in combination with ultrasound is an effective way to release the residual stresses. After welding, diffraction peak broadening due to the lattice distortion, characterised by the full width at half maximum (FWHM), is observed in the region of the weld toes. Ultrasonic impact treatment reduces the FWHM at these locations.
Lotmanian explosion: From peripheral space to dislocated time
Authors: Kim Soo Hwan
Published: May 2014

The problem of the “shift” in Lotmanian thought in his last period (the so-called Lotmanian explosion) still remains a subject of controversy for those who are interested in the scholarly heritage of Lotman. Besides explanations pointing out the “circumstantial” factors (for example, the historical context or influence from other thinkers) which brought about changes in Lotman’s views, it is important to identify a dimension of substantial “internal” changes which took place in the theoretical system itself. Regarding the essential changes relating to the concept of explosion as a movement from a ‘spatial’, more specifically ‘centre-periphery’ model to a ‘temporal’, namely ‘dislocated time’ model, the present article will focus on revealing the theoretical implication of this movement. The concept of explosion as an exceptional moment of ‘time out of joint’ was an active alternative to a theoretical breakthrough which was introduced in the process of overcoming the limitations of a previous ‘spatial’ model.
Eduardo Kohn’s guide to forest thinking
Authors: Magnus Riin
Published: May 2014

Review of How Forests Think: Toward an Anthropology beyond the Human, by Eduardo Kohn. Berkley: University of California Press, 2013.
Health and Safety Training in Russian Higher Education Institutions: Status, Problems, Tasks
Authors: Девисилов  , Devisilov Vladimir
Published: May 2014

высшее образование, образование в области безопасности, образовательные стандарты, компетенции.
Features of Statistical Approaches at Static Durability Assessment
Authors: Резников  , Reznikov D. , Махутов  , Makhutov Nikolay , Зацаринный  , Zatsarinnyy Vladimir
Published: May 2014

Features related to determined and probabilistic approaches to assessment of static durability of sophisticated technical

systems’ elements have been considered in this paper. These approaches allow define the strength reliability indicator

characterizing probability of system element refusal (damage) at set modes of loading and strength margins. If at

determined approach the durability assessment (margins of yield point, durability, long durability or creep) usually is given

on average values of operational effects and characteristics of mechanical properties, then in probabilistic calculation the

above settlement parameters get the probabilistic nature and are characterized by corresponding dispersion of values.

It allows calculate the set margin for established probability. Have been presented calculating formulas and element

destruction probability definition’s general scheme, based on use of distribution density curve of construction element’s

operating tension and bearing ability in the calculations. Based on stated provisions the calculated examples related to

destruction probability change and margins of strength limit have been presented for a number of technical branches.
Educational and Scientific Center of Management in Crisis Situations of Bauman Moscow State Technical University
Authors: Сущев  , Sushchev Sergey , Александров  , Aleksandrov Anatoliy , Девисилов  , Devisilov Vladimir , Копытов  , Kopytov K.
Published: May 2014

Risks of technogenic and natural character are actual threats of safety of Russia now and in the nearest future. For effective

formation of skills related to person’s behavior in crisis situations it is a good practice to use widely information technologies

based on computer modeling, use of geographical information systems, virtual reality elements. For training and professional

development of specialists who are responsible for health and safety and civil defense, training of bachelors and masters

in the “Technosphere safety “direction 280700, carrying out scientific researches in the area of protection against threats

of technogenic and natural character, exercise of officials’ functional duties on emergency prevention and elimination, and

fire safety ensuring, operational staff on emergency elimination, an operational duty shift an educational and scientific

center of management in crisis situations (CMCS) is created at "Ecology and Industrial Safety" Chair”1 of Bauman Moscow

State Technical University. The center can become an important element related to assumed deployment of pilot network of

centers of control in crisis situations for ensuring complex safety on science and education objects.
Preparation and Defense of Theses in Area of Ecology and Environmental Protection in Russia and European Countries
Authors: Васильев  , Vasilyev Andrey
Published: May 2014

Comparative features related to thesis works’ preparation techniques and assessment criteria, as well as prospect of integration of modern approaches to preparation and defense of Ph.D. and Doctor’s theses in area of ecology and environmental protection in Russia and European countries have been considered.
Disabilities Act compliance of fitness facilities in an American metropolitan area
Authors: Stoelzle Hannah , Sames Karen M
Published: May 2014

Background/aim: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title III mandates accessibility of all public facilities, including fitness facilities. The purpose of this study was to examine the ADA compliance of fitness facilities located in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metropolitan area, US.

Methods: Twenty randomly selected fitness facilities were evaluated for ADA compliance using the Accessibility Instruments Measuring Fitness and Recreation Environments (AIMFREE) Professional Version ( The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability, 2010 ). The assessment evaluated physical, educational, and informational aspects within each fitness facility.

Results: None of the 20 participating fitness facilities in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metropolitan area were 100% ADA compliant. The overall compliance of all 20 participating fitness facilities, as measured by the AIMFREE, was 48.4%. The highest scoring domain was water fountains (77.8%) and the lowest scoring domain was telephones (23.3%). The results of the study showed the fitness facilities in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metropolitan area were not compliant with ADA standards.

Conclusion: Occupational and physical therapy practitioners have a significant role in advocating for accessibility of public facilities, such as fitness facilities. Practitioners can collaborate with fitness facility owners to provide structural and educational resources to better accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities.
Atypical Parkinsonism: Making the case for a neuropalliative rehabilitation approach
Authors: Lindop Fiona , Brown Lisa , Graziano Mariella , Jones Diana
Published: May 2014

Background: Although atypical Parkinsonism syndromes share some clinical features with the more common idiopathic Parkinson's disease, they also exhibit condition-specific symptoms, and have a shorter trajectory with a more consistent decline. There is an increasing awareness of the need for palliative care in non-cancer-related diagnoses, such as Parkinsonism. A neuropalliative rehabilitation approach linking neurology, rehabilitation and palliative care expertise to proactively, collaboratively manage long-term neurological conditions, particularly those with shorter durations, is advocated. However, such an approach appears difficult to achieve.

Content: This article presents the main clinical features of the key atypical Parkinsonism syndromes — multiple system atrophy, progressive supranuclear palsy, corticobasal degeneration and dementia with Lewy bodies. The article also identifies the red flags that alert professionals to differentiate these conditions from idiopathic Parkinson's disease, and discusses the multidisciplinary management of atypical Parkinsonism within the context of neuropalliative rehabilitation.

Conclusion: Despite the publication of best practice guidelines, research highlights a marked lack of referral of people with atypical Parkinsonism for palliative care. Earlier diagnosis and the timely employment of a neuropalliative rehabilitation approach is believed key to the successful management of the shorter and more steeply deteriorating trajectory of atypical Parkinsonism syndromes.
Primary axillary hyperhidrosis: patient assessment, treatment and management
Authors: Byass Susie
Published: May 2014

Primary axillary hyperhidrosis is an often underestimated burden; it can be a disabling and distressing condition which affects individuals physically, emotionally and socially. Aesthetic practitioners can offer patients a programme of care for primary axillary hyperhidrosis in private practice using botulinum toxin type A injections, as well as other documented safe and effective treatment. The role of the aesthetic practitioner in the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis is to exclude secondary causes, establish failure of first-line treatments, assess availability of NHS funding and have the knowledge and competency to deliver a professional and safe programme of care. This will usually involve collaboration with GPs and nurse practitioners in primary care for the patient's initial assessment and diagnosis. The use of assessment tools such as the Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Score can assist aesthetic practitioners in selecting appropriate patients for treatment, evaluating treatment options and managing patient expectations.
Skin pigmentation disorders: aetiology, assessment and aesthetic treatment options
Authors: Sibley Lauren
Published: May 2014

There are various types of skin pigmentation disorders, from less severe forms such as freckles, solar lentigines and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, to more severe conditions such as melasma and chloasma. Skin pigmentation disorders are more commonly seen in women due to hormonal factors, and those with darker skin types. Hyperpigmentation is a chronic disorder that can be frustrating for patients and health professionals alike because it is very difficult to treat. Like acne vulgaris, pigmentation disorders can cause significant stress and embarrassment for patients, so understanding the different types of hyperpigmentation and identifying appropriate treatments is vital for aesthetic practitioners. Integrating new treatments, products and protocols will benefit patients as well as aesthetic practices when effective results are achieved. This article will discuss the mechanisms known to be involved in pigment formation, explore various treatment modalities currently available to treat skin pigmentation disorders, and recommend ways to manage patient expectations during the initial consultation.
Avoiding litigation: what aesthetic nurses need to know about data protection
Authors: Luckman Mandy
Published: May 2014

Data protection laws apply to all elements of nursing, and the field of aesthetics is no exception. In the fourth of this series of legal articles, Mandy Luckman summarises the advice and instructions given in the Data Protection Act 1998 and by the Information Commissioner's Office, with specific application to aesthetic nurses. She discusses the pertinent issues of medical record ownership and confidentiality