bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Error Analysis for RADAR Neighbor Matching Localization in Linear Logarithmic Strength Varying Wi-Fi Environment
Authors: Zhou Mu , Tian Zengshan , Xu Kunjie , Yu Xiang , Wu Haibo
Published: February 2014

This paper studies the statistical errors for the fingerprint-based RADAR neighbor matching localization with the linearly calibrated reference points (RPs) in logarithmic received signal strength (RSS) varying Wi-Fi environment. To the best of our knowledge, little comprehensive analysis work has appeared on the error performance of neighbor matching localization with respect to the deployment of RPs. However, in order to achieve the efficient and reliable location-based services (LBSs) as well as the ubiquitous context-awareness in Wi-Fi environment, much attention has to be paid to the highly accurate and cost-efficient localization systems. To this end, the statistical errors by the widely used neighbor matching localization are significantly discussed in this paper to examine the inherent mathematical relations between the localization errors and the locations of RPs by using a basic linear logarithmic strength varying model. Furthermore, based on the mathematical demonstrations and some testing results, the closed-form solutions to the statistical errors by RADAR neighbor matching localization can be an effective tool to explore alternative deployment of fingerprint-based neighbor matching localization systems in the future.
Network Efficient Power Control for Wireless Communication Systems
Authors: Campos-Delgado Daniel U. , Luna-Rivera Jose Martin , Martinez-Sánchez C. J. , Gutierrez Carlos A. , Tecpanecatl-Xihuitl J. L.
Published: February 2014

We introduce a two-loop power control that allows an efficient use of the overall power resources for commercial wireless networks based on cross-layer optimization. This approach maximizes the network’s utility in the outer-loop as a function of the averaged signal to interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) by considering adaptively the changes in the network characteristics. For this purpose, the concavity property of the utility function was verified with respect to the SINR, and an iterative search was proposed with guaranteed convergence. In addition, the outer-loop is in charge of selecting the detector that minimizes the overall power consumption (transmission and detection). Next the inner-loop implements a feedback power control in order to achieve the optimal SINR in the transmissions despite channel variations and roundtrip delays. In our proposal, the utility maximization process and detector selection and feedback power control are decoupled problems, and as a result, these strategies are implemented at two different time scales in the two-loop framework. Simulation results show that substantial utility gains may be achieved by improving the power management in the wireless network.
Association between Related Purine Metabolites and Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Xia Jianfei , Wang Zonghua , Zhang Feifei
Published: February 2014

Aims. The purpose of the study was to investigate the differences of adenosine, adenine, inosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, and uric acid concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic retinopathy and assess the relationship between purine metabolites and disease.Materials and Methods. The study group consisted of 114 subjects which were divided into three groups: control (n=40), type 2 diabetes without retinopathy (n=35), and type 2 diabetes with retinopathy (n=39). Levels of metabolites were measured in plasma of all participants.Results. There is a significant increase of levels of adenosine (0.94±0.17 mg/L versus0.17±0.01 mg/L,P<0.001), inosine (0.297±0.078 mg/L versus0.086±0.010 mg/L,P<0.001), xanthine (1.01±0.21 mg/L versus0.54±0.05 mg/L,P=0.009), and uric acid (70.55±3.97 mg/L versus53.81±2.36 mg/L,P<0.001) with diabetic retinopathy compared to diabetes mellitus. The levels of adenine, hypoxanthine, and xanthine oxidase did not change. Uric acid, xanthine, inosine, and adenosine correlated positively with systolic blood pressure and urea nitrogen.Conclusions. The levels of adenosine, inosine, uric acid, and xanthine may be useful for monitoring the progression of diabetic retinopathy and evaluating the treatment.
Componential Profile and Amylase Inhibiting Activity of Phenolic Compounds fromCalendula officinalisL. Leaves
Authors: Olennikov Daniil N. , Kashchenko Nina I.
Published: February 2014

An ethanolic extract and its ethyl acetate-soluble fraction from leaves ofCalendula officinalisL. (Asteraceae) were found to show an inhibitory effect on amylase. From the crude extract fractions, one new phenolic acid glucoside, 6′-O-vanilloyl-β-D-glucopyranose, was isolated, together with twenty-four known compounds including five phenolic acid glucosides, five phenylpropanoids, five coumarins, and nine flavonoids. Their structures were elucidated based on chemical and spectral data. The main components, isoquercitrin, isorhamnetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, and quercetin-3-O-(6′′-acetyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside, exhibited potent inhibitory effects on amylase.
Sensor Selection and Integration to Improve Video Segmentation in Complex Environments
Authors: Reckley Adam R. , Hsu Wei-Wen , Chen Chung-Hao , Ma Gangfeng , Huang E-Wen
Published: February 2014

Background subtraction is often considered to be a required stage of any video surveillance system being used to detect objects in a single frame and/or track objects across multiple frames in a video sequence. Most current state‐of‐the‐art techniques for object detection and tracking utilize some form of background subtraction that involves developing a model of the background at a pixel, region, or frame level and designating any elements that deviate from the background model as foreground. However, most existing approaches are capable of segmenting a number of distinct components but unable to distinguish between the desired object of interest and complex, dynamic background such as moving water and high reflections. In this paper, we propose a technique to integrate spatiotemporal signatures of an object of interest from different sensing modalities into a video segmentation method in order to improve object detection and tracking in dynamic, complex scenes. Our proposed algorithm utilizes the dynamic interaction information between the object of interest and background to differentiate between mistakenly segmented components and the desired component. Experimental results on two complex data sets demonstrate that our proposed technique significantly improves the accuracy and utility of state‐of‐the‐art video segmentation technique.
A Novel Approach for Detail-Enhanced Exposure Fusion Using Guided Filter
Authors: Singh Harbinder , Kumar Vinay , Bhooshan Sunil
Published: February 2014

In this paper we propose a novel detail-enhancing exposure fusion approach using nonlinear translation-variant filter (NTF). With the captured Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) images under different exposure settings, first the fine details are extracted based on guided filter. Next, the base layers (i.e., images obtained from NTF) across all input images are fused using multiresolution pyramid. Exposure, contrast, and saturation measures are considered to generate a mask that guides the fusion process of the base layers. Finally, the fused base layer is combined with the extracted fine details to obtain detail-enhanced fused image. The goal is to preserve details in both very dark and extremely bright regions without High Dynamic Range Image (HDRI) representation and tone mapping step. Moreover, we have demonstrated that the proposed method is also suitable for the multifocus image fusion without introducing artifacts.
Performance Evaluation of Glass-Epoxy-TiC Hybrid Composites Using Design of Experiment
Authors: Mohapatra Sangita , Mantry Sisir , Singh S. K.
Published: February 2014

The present paper reports the processing and solid particle erosion behavior of a multiphase composite consisting of epoxy resin reinforced with E-glass fiber and TiC particles. The TiC powder synthesized from ilmenite employing DC extended thermal plasma technique has been used as the filler in these glass epoxy composites. It is observed that with increasing percentage of filler particles, there is significant improvement in hardness and erosion wear performance. It is also observed that, among all the factors, impact velocity is the most significant factor followed by TiC percentage and impingement angle, while erodent size has the least significance on erosion of the reinforced composite. Taguchi's orthogonal arrays have been used to identify the controlling factors influencing the erosion wear rate.
Partial Laryngectomy with Cricoid Reconstruction: Thyroid Carcinoma Invading the Larynx
Authors: Ozturk Kerem , Akyildiz Serdar , Makay Ozer
Published: February 2014

Laryngotracheal invasion worsens the prognosis of thyroid cancer and the surgical approach for laryngotracheal invasion is controversial. In this paper, partial full-thickness excision of the cricoid cartilage with supracricoid laryngectomy and reconstruction of existing defect with thyroid cartilage are explained in a patient with papillary thyroid carcinoma invading the thyroid cartilage and cricoid cartilage without intraluminal invasion. Surgical indication should not be established by the site of involvement in thyroid carcinomas invading the larynx, as in primary cancers of the larynx. We think that partial laryngectomy according to the involvement site and the appropriate reconstruction techniques should be used for thyroid cancer invading the larynx.
Multiple Model Identification for a High Purity Distillation Column Process Based on EM Algorithm
Authors: Xiong Weili , Chen Lei , Liu Fei , Xu Baoguo
Published: February 2014

Due to the strong nonlinearity and transition dynamics between different operating points
of the high purity distillation column process, it is difficult to use a single model for modeling such a process. Therefore, the multiple model based approach is introduced for modeling
the high purity distillation column plant under the framework of the expectation maximization (EM) algorithm. In this paper, autoregressive exogenous (ARX) models are adopted to
construct the local models of this chemical process at different operating points, and the EM
algorithm is used for identification of local models as well as the probability that each local
model takes effect. The global model is obtained by aggregating the local models using an exponential weighting function. Finally, the simulation performed on the high purity distillation
column demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Towards a Smart Encapsulation System for Small-Sized Electronic Devices: A New Approach
Authors: Schmitz-Hertzberg Sebastian-Tim , Liese Rick , Terjung Carsten , Bier Frank F.
Published: February 2014

Miniaturized analytical chip devices like biosensors nowadays provide assistance in highly diverse fields of application such as point-of-care diagnostics and industrial bioprocess engineering. However, upon contact with fluids, the sensor requires a protective shell for its electrical components that simultaneously offers controlled access for the target analytes to the measuring units. We therefore developed a capsule that comprises a permeable and a sealed compartment consisting of variable polymers such as biocompatible and biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) for medical applications or more economical polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polystyrene (PS) polymers for bioengineering applications. Production of the sealed capsule compartments was performed by heat pressing of polymer pellets placed in individually designable molds. Controlled permeability of the opposite compartments was achieved by inclusion of NaCl inside the polymer matrix during heat pressing, followed by its subsequent release in aqueous solution. Correlating diffusion rates through the so made permeable capsule compartments were quantified for preselected model analytes: glucose, peroxidase, and polystyrene beads of three different diameters (1.4 μm, 4.2 μm, and 20.0 μm). In summary, the presented capsule system turned out to provide sufficient shelter for small-sized electronic devices and gives insight into its potential permeability for defined substances of analytical interest.
The Population Pharmacokinetic Models of Tacrolimus in Chinese Adult Liver Transplantation Patients
Authors: Zhu Liqin , Wang Hao , Sun Xiaoye , Rao Wei , Qu Wei , Zhang Yuan , Sun Liying
Published: February 2014

Aim. The aim of this study was to establish population pharmacokinetic models of tacrolimus in Chinese adult liver transplantation patients. Methods. Tacrolimus dose and concentration data (n=435) were obtained from 47 Chinese adult liver transplant recipients, and the data were analyzed using a nonlinear mixed-effect modeling (NONMEM) method. Results. The structural model was a two-compartment model with first-order absorption. The typical population values of tacrolimus for the pharmacokinetic parameters of apparent clearance (CL/F), apparent distribution volume of the central compartment (V2/F), intercompartmental clearance (Q/F), apparent distribution volume of the peripheral compartment (V3/F), and absorption rate (ka) were 11.2 L/h, 406 L, 57.3 L/h, 503 L, and 0.723 h−1, respectively. The interindividual variabilities of these parameters were 16.2%, 163%, 19.7%, 199%, and 74.3%, respectively, and the intraindividual variability of observed concentration was 26.54%. The covariates retained in the final models were postoperative days (POD) and dosage per day (DOSE) on CL/F. Conclusion. Population pharmacokinetic models of tacrolimus were developed in Chinese adult liver transplant patients. These results could provide the interpretation of the outcome of pharmacokinetics modeling and the impact of covariate tested on individualized tacrolimus therapy.
Antioxidant Activity and Phenolic Content of Microwave-AssistedSolanum melongenaExtracts
Authors: Salerno Loredana , Modica Maria N. , Pittalà Valeria , Romeo Giuseppe , Siracusa Maria A. , Di Giacomo Claudia , Sorrenti Valeria , Acquaviva Rosaria
Published: February 2014

Eggplant fruit is a very rich source of polyphenol compounds endowed with antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to extract polyphenols from eggplant entire fruit, pulp, or skin, both fresh and dry, and compare results between conventional extraction and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). The effects of time exposure (15, 30, 60, and 90 min) and solvent (water 100% or ethanol/water 50%) were also evaluated. The highest amount of polyphenols was found in the extract obtained from dry peeled skin treated with 50% aqueous ethanol, irradiated with microwave; this extract contained also high quantity of flavonoids and showed good antioxidant activity expressed by its capacity to scavenge superoxide anion and to inhibit lipid peroxidation.
Perspectives on Molecular Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Strategies in Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Mendes Arent André , Souza Luiz Felipe de , Walz Roger , Dafre Alcir Luiz
Published: February 2014

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is frequently associated with abnormal blood-brain barrier function, resulting in the release of factors that can be used as molecular biomarkers of TBI, among them GFAP, UCH-L1, S100B, and NSE. Although many experimental studies have been conducted, clinical consolidation of these biomarkers is still needed to increase the predictive power and reduce the poor outcome of TBI. Interestingly, several of these TBI biomarkers are oxidatively modified to carbonyl groups, indicating that markers of oxidative stress could be of predictive value for the selection of therapeutic strategies. Some drugs such as corticosteroids and progesterone have already been investigated in TBI neuroprotection but failed to demonstrate clinical applicability in advanced phases of the studies. Dietary antioxidants, such as curcumin, resveratrol, and sulforaphane, have been shown to attenuate TBI-induced damage in preclinical studies. These dietary antioxidants can increase antioxidant defenses via transcriptional activation of NRF2 and are also known as carbonyl scavengers, two potential mechanisms for neuroprotection. This paper reviews the relevance of redox biology in TBI, highlighting perspectives for future studies.
Brachial Plexus Injuries in Adults: Evaluation and Diagnostic Approach
Authors: Sakellariou Vasileios I. , Badilas Nikolaos K. , Mazis George A. , Stavropoulos Nikolaos A. , Kotoulas Helias K. , Kyriakopoulos Stamatios , Tagkalegkas Ioannis , Sofianos Ioannis P.
Published: February 2014

The increased incidence of motor vehicle accidents during the past century has been associated with a significant increase in brachial plexus injuries. New imaging studies are currently available for the evaluation of brachial plexus injuries. Myelography, CT myelography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are indicated in the evaluation of brachial plexus. Moreover, a series of specialized electrodiagnostic and nerve conduction studies in association with the clinical findings during the neurologic examination can provide information regarding the location of the lesion, the severity of trauma, and expected clinical outcome. Improvements in diagnostic approaches and microsurgical techniques have dramatically changed the prognosis and functional outcome of these types of injuries.
Predictors of Venous Thromboembolic Events Associated with Central Venous Port Insertion in Cancer Patients
Authors: Hohl Moinat Christine , Périard Daniel , Grueber Adrienne , Hayoz Daniel , Magnin Jean-Luc , André Pascal , Kung Marc , Betticher Daniel C.
Published: February 2014

Insertion of central venous port (CVP) catheter in the cancer population is associated with increased incidence of venous thromboembolic events (VTE). However, trials have shown limited benefit of antithrombotic treatment to prevent catheter-related venous thrombosis. This prospective observational cohort study was designed to assess the incidence of VTE closely related to CVP implantation in patients with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy, and to identify a high risk subgroup of patients. Between February 2006 and December 2011, 1097 consecutive cancer patients with first CVP implantation were included. Catheter-related VTE were defined as deep venous thrombosis in the arm, with or without pulmonary embolism (PE), or isolated PE. The incidence of CVP-associated VTE was 5.9% (IC95 4.4–7.3%) at 3 months, and 11.3% (IC95 9.4–13.2%) at 12 months. The incidence of any VTE was 7.6% (IC95 6.0–9.3%) at 3 months, and 15.3% (IC95 13.1–17.6%) at 12 months. High Khorana risk score and lung cancer were significant predictors of 3 month VTE. In conclusion, this large cohort study of patients with first CVP catheter implantation confirms the high incidence of VTE associated with the CVP implantation and allow identifying high risk patients who may benefit from thromboprophylaxis.
On the Singular Perturbations for Fractional Differential Equation
Authors: Atangana Abdon
Published: February 2014

The goal of this paper is to examine the possible extension of the singular perturbation differential equation to the concept of fractional order derivative. To achieve this, we presented a review of the concept of fractional calculus. We make use of the Laplace transform operator to derive exact solution of singular perturbation fractional linear differential equations. We make use of the methodology of three analytical methods to present exact and approximate solution of the singular perturbation fractional, nonlinear, nonhomogeneous differential equation. These methods are including the regular perturbation method, the new development of the variational iteration method, and the homotopy decomposition method.
A Metabolomic Perspective on Coeliac Disease
Authors: Calabrò Antonio , Gralka Ewa , Luchinat Claudio , Saccenti Edoardo , Tenori Leonardo
Published: February 2014

Metabolomics is an “omic” science that is now emerging with the purpose of elaborating a comprehensive analysis of the metabolome, which is the complete set of metabolites (i.e., small molecules intermediates) in an organism, tissue, cell, or biofluid. In the past decade, metabolomics has already proved to be useful for the characterization of several pathological conditions and offers promises as a clinical tool. A metabolomics investigation of coeliac disease (CD) revealed that a metabolic fingerprint for CD can be defined, which accounts for three different but complementary components: malabsorption, energy metabolism, and alterations in gut microflora and/or intestinal permeability. In this review, we will discuss the major advancements in metabolomics of CD, in particular with respect to the role of gut microbiome and energy metabolism.
Potent Antioxidative and UVB Protective Effect of Water Extract ofEclipta prostrataL.
Authors: Chan Chin-Feng , Huang Wen-Ying , Guo Hong-Yi , Wang Bo Rong
Published: February 2014

Oxidative stress, including Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation-induced skin damage, is involved in numerous diseases. This study demonstrates that water extract ofEclipta prostrataL. (WEP) has a potent effect in scavenging 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide radicals, and chelating ferrous ion, exhibiting IC50values of 0.23 mg/mL, 0.48 mg/mL, and 1.25 mg/mL, respectively. The WEP total phenol content was 176.45 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g sample. Chlorogenic acid, a component of the plant's active ingredients, was determined by HPLC and antioxidative assay. However, no caffeic acid, stigmasterol, or wedelolactone was present in WEP. WEP absorbs both UVA and UVB irradiation, and furthermore, the extract shows a dose-dependent response in the protection of HaCaT human keratinocytes and mouse fibroblasts 3T3 cells against UVB-induced cytotoxicity, which may result from a synergistic effect between chlorogenic acid and other active components present in WEP.
Comparison of the Finite Volume and Lattice Boltzmann Methods for Solving Natural Convection Heat Transfer Problems inside Cavities and Enclosures
Authors: Goodarzi M. , Safaei M. R. , Karimipour A. , Hooman K. , Dahari M. , Kazi S. N. , Sadeghinezhad E.
Published: February 2014

Different numerical methods have been implemented to simulate internal natural convection heat transfer and also to identify the most accurate and efficient one. A laterally heated square enclosure, filled with air, was studied. A FORTRAN code based on the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) was developed for this purpose. The finite difference method was applied to discretize the LBM equations. Furthermore, for comparison purpose, the commercially available CFD package FLUENT, which uses finite volume Method (FVM), was also used to simulate the same problem. Different discretization schemes, being the first order upwind, second order upwind, power law, and QUICK, were used with the finite volume solver where the SIMPLE and SIMPLEC algorithms linked the velocity-pressure terms. The results were also compared with existing experimental and numerical data. It was observed that the finite volume method requires less CPU usage time and yields more accurate results compared to the LBM. It has been noted that the 1st order upwind/SIMPLEC combination converges comparatively quickly with a very high accuracy especially at the boundaries. Interestingly, all variants of FVM discretization/pressure-velocity linking methods lead to almost the same number of iterations to converge but higher-order schemes ask for longer iterations.
Simulation on Bidding Strategy at Day-Ahead Market
Authors: Sawai Kazunori , Sasaki Tetsuo
Published: February 2014

In an electric power day-ahead market, market prices are not always cleared at marginal cost caused by the strategic bidding of generators. This paper presents the results of day-ahead market simulation by using a simple three-generation-companies’ model for the case of demand with price sensitivity and analysis of the profits depending upon bidding strategies. The results show that, without a demand response, generation companies with diverse generation can increase their profit by strategic bidding. Moreover, under this condition, even if the demand response is made sensitive, these characteristics do not change. It is clarified that one of these factors is the operating constraint of power generators. If the generation company’s low-cost power generators decrease, the company’s profit monotonically decreases as the speculated capacity increases. However, realizing this case requires an unreal demand response and many small companies without diverse generation. Unless the conditions above are satisfied, the wholesale power transactions only through a day-ahead market without price-sensitive demand mechanisms would create a sellers' market, where the sellers can easily manipulate the price.
Existence of Periodic Solutions and Stability of Zero Solution of a Mathematical Model of Schistosomiasis
Authors: Li Lin , Liu Zhicheng
Published: February 2014

A mathematical model on schistosomiasis governed by periodic differential equations with a time delay was studied. By discussing boundedness of the solutions of this model and construction of a monotonic sequence, the existence of positive periodic solution was shown. The conditions under which the model admits a periodic solution and the conditions under which the zero solution is globally stable are given, respectively. Some numerical analyses show the conditional coexistence of locally stable zero solution and periodic solutions and that it is an effective treatment by simply reducing the population of snails and enlarging the death ratio of snails for the control of schistosomiasis.
The Inhibitory Effect of a Novel Polypeptide Fraction fromArca subcrenataon Cancer-Related Inflammation in Human Cervical Cancer HeLa Cells
Authors: Wu Yu , Hu Xianjing , Song Liyan , Zhu Jianhua , Yu Rongmin
Published: February 2014

Inflammation is known to be closely associated with the development of cancer. The study was launched in human cervical cancer HeLa cells to investigate the antitumor and anti-inflammatory effects of P2, a marine polypeptide fraction from an important fishery resourceArca subcrenata. The basic research showed that P2 could suppress the production of nitric oxide in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophage cells as well as the secretion of inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-αin human cervical cancer HeLa cells. For the molecular mechanisms, P2 was shown to downregulate the gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-8 and to inhibit the COX-2 and iNOS-related pathways in HeLa cells. In consequence, P2 might inhibit tumor development by blocking the interaction between tumor microenvironment and proinflammatory mediators. All findings indicate that P2 possesses the potential to be developed as a novel agent for cancer therapy.
Scalp-Ear-Nipple Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Morales-Peralta Estela , Andrés Vivian , Campillo Betancourt Dainé
Published: February 2014

The scalp-ear-nipple (SEN) syndrome is an infrequent congenital disease. Its main features are scalp defects, malformed ears, and absence of nipples. Most of the reported cases are autosomal dominant. We report on a patient suffering SEN syndrome with possible autosomal recessive inheritance. It is concluded that SEN syndrome should be recognized as an entity with genetic heterogeneity once there is evidence of different genetic manner of inheritance described in this disease.
Clinical Outcomes after Treatment of Periodontal Intrabony Defects with Nanocrystalline Hydroxyapatite (Ostim) or Enamel Matrix Derivatives (Emdogain): A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Al Machot Elyan , Hoffmann Thomas , Lorenz Katrin , Khalili Ihssan , Noack Barbara
Published: February 2014

Introduction. Periodontitis is an inflammatory process in response to dental biofilm and leads to periodontal tissue destruction. The aim of this study was the comparison of outcomes using either an enamel matrix derivative (EMD) or a nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (NHA) in regenerative periodontal therapy after 6 and 12 months.Methods. Using a parallel group, prospective randomized study design, we enrolled 19 patients in each group. The primary outcome was bone fill after 12 months. Attachment gain, probing pocket depth (PPD) reduction, and recession were secondary variables. Additionally, early wound healing and adverse events were assessed. Data analysis included test of noninferiority of NHA group (test) compared to EMD group (reference) in bone fill. Differences in means of secondary variables were compared by pairedt-test, frequency data by exactχ2test.Results. Both groups showed significant bone fill, reduction of PPD, increase in recession, and gain of attachment after 6 and 12 months. No significant differences between groups were found at any time point. Adverse events were comparable between both groups with a tendency of more complaints in the NHA group.Conclusion. The clinical outcomes were similar in both groups. EMD could have some advantage compared to NHA regarding patients comfort and adverse events. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.govNCT00757159.
Robust Control Allocation for Spacecraft Attitude Stabilization under Actuator Faults and Uncertainty
Authors: Zhang Aihua , Wang Yongchao , Zhang Zhiqiang , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: February 2014

A robust control allocation scheme is developed for rigid spacecraft attitude stabilization in the presence of actuator partial loss fault, actuator failure, and actuator misalignment. First, a neural network fault detection scheme is proposed, Second, an adaptive attitude tracking strategy is employed which can realize fault tolerance control under the actuator partial loss and actuator failure within λmin⁡ = 0.5. The attitude tracking and faults detection are always here during the procedure. Once the fault occurred which could not guaranteed the attitude stable for 30 s, the robust control allocation strategy is generated automatically. The robust control allocation compensates the control effectiveness uncertainty which caused the actuator misalignment. The unknown disturbances, uncertain inertia matrix, and even actuator error with limited actuators are all considered in the controller design process. All are achieved with inexpensive online computations. Numerical results are also presented that not only highlight the closed‐loop performance benefits of the control law derived here but also illustrate its great robustness.
Viscosity Projection Algorithms for Pseudocontractive Mappings in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Pan Xiujuan , Kang Shin Min , Kwun Young Chel
Published: February 2014

An explicit projection algorithm with viscosity technique is constructed for finding the fixed points of the pseudocontractive mapping in Hilbert spaces. Strong convergence theorem is demonstrated. Consequently, as an application, we can approximate to the minimum-norm fixed point of the pseudocontractive mapping.
Reassessing the Plastic Hinge Model for Energy Dissipation of Axially Loaded Columns
Authors: Korol R. M. , Sivakumaran K. S.
Published: February 2014

This paper investigates the energy dissipation potential of axially loaded columns and evaluates the use of a plastic hinge model for analysis of hi-rise building column collapse under extreme loading conditions. The experimental program considered seven axially loaded H-shaped extruded aluminum structural section columns having slenderness ratios that would be typical of floor-to-ceiling heights in buildings. All seven test specimens initially experienced minor-axis overall buckling followed by formation of a plastic hinge at the mid-height region, leading to local buckling of the flanges on the compression side of the plastic hinge, and eventual folding of the compression flanges. The experimental energy absorption, based on load-displacement relations, was compared to the energy estimates based on section plastic moment resistance based on measured yield stress and based on measured hinge rotations. It was found that the theoretical plastic hinge model underestimates a column’s actual ability to absorb energy by a factor in the range of 3 to 4 below that obtained from tests. It was also noted that the realizable hinge rotation is less than 180°. The above observations are based, of course, on actual columns being able to sustain high tensile strains at hinge locations without fracturing.
Research on Optimized Control Model of Freeway Based on Dynamic Traffic Demand Estimation
Authors: Jiang Zhu , Li Shubin
Published: February 2014

According to the estimation information of dynamic traffic demands, a novel optimal control model of freeway was established on the basis of the hierarchical concept. There are four control modules in this model. The OD prediction module predicts the total traffic demands in a long time and determines the upper bound of the future queuing length in advance; the global optimal control module predicts the future traffic state and establishes the coordination constraints for each ramp in the network; the traffic demand estimation module estimates the real-time traffic conditions for each ramp; the local adaptive control module regulates ramp metering rate according to the estimated information of the real-time traffic conditions and the results optimized by the global optimal control module. The simulation results show that this control system is of a good dynamic performance. It coordinates the benefits of various ramps and optimizes the overall performance of the freeway network.
Forbidden Transitions in the Ground State Configuration of Doubly Ionized Argon
Authors: Özdemir Leyla , Kabakçı Selda , Armağan İlker
Published: February 2014

We have calculated forbidden transitions (M1 and E2) between fine structure levels in the ground state configuration 3s23p4 of doubly ionized argon (Ar III) using the multiconfiguration Hartree-Fock approach within the framework of the Breit-Pauli Hamiltonian. The data for the analysis of forbidden lines in the spectrum is important for the study of the plasma in astrophysical objects and fusion devices. The results obtained from this work have been compared with other results available in the literature.
Printed Wide-Slot Antenna Design with Bandwidth and Gain Enhancement on Low-Cost Substrate
Authors: Samsuzzaman M. , Islam M. T. , Mandeep J. S. , Misran N.
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a printed wide-slot antenna design and prototyping on available low-cost polymer resin composite material fed by a microstrip line with a rotated square slot for bandwidth enhancement and defected ground structure for gain enhancement. An I-shaped microstrip line is used to excite the square slot. The rotated square slot is embedded in the middle of the ground plane, and its diagonal points are implanted in the middle of the strip line and ground plane. To increase the gain, four L-shaped slots are etched in the ground plane. The measured results show that the proposed structure retains a wide impedance bandwidth of 88.07%, which is 20% better than the reference antenna. The average gain is also increased, which is about 4.17 dBi with a stable radiation pattern in the entire operating band. Moreover, radiation efficiency, input impedance, current distribution, axial ratio, and parametric studies of S11 for different design parameters are also investigated using the finite element method-based simulation software HFSS.
Simple Measures of Function and Symptoms in Hospitalized Heart Failure Patients Predict Short-Term Cardiac Event-Free Survival
Authors: Zaharias Evanthia , Cataldo Janine , Mackin Lynda , Howie-Esquivel Jill
Published: February 2014

Background. Heart failure (HF) is a prevalent chronic condition where patients experience numerous uncomfortable symptoms, low functional status, and high mortality rates.Objective. To determine whether function and/or symptoms predict cardiac event-free survival in hospitalized HF patients within 90 days of hospital discharge.Methods. Inpatients (N=32) had HF symptoms assessed with 4 yes/no questions. Function was determined with NYHA Classification, Katz Index of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), and directly with the short physical performance battery (SPPB). Survival was analyzed with time to the first postdischarge cardiac event with events defined as cardiac rehospitalization, heart transplantation, or death.Results. Mean age was 58.2 ± 13.6 years. Patient reported ADL function was nearly independent (5.6 ± 1.1) while direct measure (SPPB) showed moderate functional limitation (6.4 ± 3.1). Within 90 days, 40.6% patients had a cardiac event. At discharge, each increase in NYHA Classification was associated with a 3.4-fold higher risk of cardiac events (95% CI 1.4–8.5). Patients reporting symptoms of dyspnea, fatigue, and orthopnea before discharge had a 4.0-fold, 9.7-fold, and 12.8-fold, respectively, greater risk of cardiac events (95% CI 1.2–13.2; 1.2–75.1; 1.7–99.7).Conclusions. Simple assessments of function and symptoms easily performed at discharge may predict short-term cardiac outcomes in hospitalized HF patients.
An Immature Type II Dens Invaginatus in a Mandibular Lateral Incisor with Talon’s Cusp: A Clinical Dilemma to Confront
Authors: Gangwar Anshul , Singal Deepa , Giri K. Y. , Agarwal Anshita , Keerthi S. Sruthi
Published: February 2014

Dens invaginatus (DI) is a malformation of teeth probably resulting from an infolding of the dental papilla during tooth development. DI is classified as type I, II, and III by Oehlers depending on the severity of malformation. The maxillary lateral incisor is the most commonly affected tooth. Structural defects do exist in the depth of the invagination pits, and as a consequence, the early development of caries and the subsequent necrosis of the dental pulp, as well as abscess and cyst formation are clinical implications associated with DI. Occasionally, we can see more than one developmental anomaly occurring in a single tooth. In such cases it becomes important to identify the anomalies and initiate a proper treatment plan for good prognosis. In this paper, an unusual case of DI which clinically presented as a huge talons cusp affecting a mandibular lateral incisor tooth is described. This case report illustrates grinding of the talons cusp followed by nonsurgical endodontic management of dens invaginatus type II with an immature apex and periapical lesions, in which Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) shows a complete periapical healing with bone formation at the site of the lesions.
A Predictive Distribution Model for Cooperative Braking System of an Electric Vehicle
Authors: Guo Hongqiang , He Hongwen , Xiao Xuelian
Published: February 2014

A predictive distribution model for a series cooperative braking system of an electric vehicle is proposed, which can solve the real‐time problem of the optimum braking force distribution. To get the predictive distribution model, firstly three disciplines of the maximum regenerative energy recovery capability, the maximum generating efficiency and the optimum braking stability are considered, then an off‐line process optimization stream is designed, particularly the optimal Latin hypercube design (Opt LHD) method and radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) are utilized. In order to decouple the variables between different disciplines, a concurrent subspace design (CSD) algorithm is suggested. The established predictive distribution model is verified in a dynamic simulation. The off‐line optimization results show that the proposed process optimization stream can improve the regenerative energy recovery efficiency, and optimize the braking stability simultaneously. Further simulation tests demonstrate that the predictive distribution model can achieve high prediction accuracy and is very beneficial for the cooperative braking system.
A Novel High-Power Dual-Band Coupled-Line Gysel Power Divider with Impedance-Transforming Functions
Authors: Wang Weimin , Wu Yongle , Liu Yuanan
Published: February 2014

A novel coupled-line structure is proposed to design dual-band and high-power Gysel power dividers with inherent impedance-transforming functions. Based on traditional even- and odd-mode technique, the analytical design methods in closed-form formula are obtained and the accurate electrical parameters analysis is presented. Due to the usage of coupled-line sections, more design-parameter freedom and a wider frequency-ratio operation range for this kind of dual-band Gysel powder divider are obtained. Several numerical examples are designed and calculated to demonstrate flexible dual-band applications with different impedance-transforming functions. A practical microstrip power divider operating at 2 GHz and 3.2 GHz is designed, fabricated, and measured. The good agreement between the calculated and measured results verifies our proposed circuit structure and analytical design approach.
The Impact of Insurance and a Usual Source of Care on Emergency Department Use in the United States
Authors: Liaw Winston , Petterson Stephen , Rabin David L. , Bazemore Andrew
Published: February 2014

Background. Finding a usual source of care (USC) is difficult for certain populations. This analysis determines how insurance type and having a USC affect the settings in which patients seek care. Methods. In this cross-sectional study of the 2000–2011 Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys, we assessed the percentage of low-income persons with half or more of their ambulatory visits to the emergency department (ED). Respondents were stratified based on insurance type and presence of a USC. Results. In 2011, among Medicaid enrollees without USCs, 21.6% had half or more of their ambulatory visits to EDs compared to 8.1% for those with USCs. Among the uninsured without USCs, 24.1% went to an ED for half or more of their ambulatory visits compared to 8.8% for those with USCs in 2011. Among the privately insured without USCs, 7.8% went to an ED for half or more of their ambulatory visits compared to 5.0% for those with USCs in 2011. These differences remained in multivariate analyses. Conclusions. Those who lack USCs, particularly the uninsured and Medicaid enrollees, are more likely to rely on EDs.
Following Up on Clinical Recommendations in Transitions from Hospital to Nursing Home
Authors: Caruso Lisa B. , Thwin Soe Soe , Brandeis Gary H.
Published: February 2014

Following up on recommendations made at the time of a hospital discharge is important to patient safety. While data is lacking, specifically around the transition of patient to nursing home, it has been postulated that missed items such as laboratory tests may result in adverse patient outcomes. To determine the extent of this problem, a retrospective cohort study of subjects discharged from an academic medical center and admitted to nursing homes (NH) was followed to determine the type of discharge recommendations and the rate of completion. In addition, for the purpose of generalizability, the 30-day hospital readmission rate was calculated. 152 recommendations were made on 51 subjects. Almost a quarter of the recommendations made by the hospital discharging team were not acted upon. Furthermore, for the majority of those recommendations that were not acted upon, a reason could not be determined. In concert with national data, 20% of the subjects returned to the hospital within 30 days. Further investigation is warranted to determine if an association exists between missed recommendations and hospital readmission from the nursing home setting.
Research on Coordination of Fresh Produce Supply Chain in Big Market Sales Environment
Authors: Su Juning , Wu Jiebing , Liu Chenguang
Published: February 2014

In this paper, we propose two decision models for decentralized and centralized fresh produce supply chains with stochastic supply and demand and controllable transportation time. The optimal order quantity and the optimal transportation time in these two supply chain systems are derived. To improve profits in a decentralized supply chain, based on analyzing the risk taken by each participant in the supply chain, we design a set of contracts which can coordinate this type of fresh produce supply chain with stochastic supply and stochastic demand, and controllable transportation time as well. We also obtain a value range of contract parameters that can increase profits of all participants in the decentralized supply chain. The expected profits of the decentralized setting and the centralized setting are compared with respect to given numerical examples. Furthermore, the sensitivity analyses of the deterioration rate factor and the freshness factor are performed. The results of numerical examples show that the transportation time is shorter, the order quantity is smaller, the total profit of whole supply chain is less, and the possibility of cooperation between supplier and retailer is higher for the fresh produce which is more perishable and its quality decays more quickly.
Evaluation of Some Conducting Polymers as Novel Antioxidants for Rubber Vulcanizates
Authors: Abd El-Ghaffar M. A. , Shaffei K. A. , Abdelwahab Nourelhoda
Published: February 2014

Natural rubber (NR) and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) formulations containing polyaromatic and polyheterocyclic amine homopolymers and copolymers were prepared. The studied homopolymers named polythiophene (PT), poly(o-phenylene diamine) (Po-PDA) and copolymers named poly(aniline-co-m-toluidine) (PAn-co-mT), poly(aniline-co-o-phenylene diamine) (PAn-co-o-PDA), poly(aniline-co-thiophene) (PAn-co-T), poly(aniline-co-2-amino pyridine) (PAn-co-2APy), and poly(2-amino pyridine-co-o-phenylene diamine) (P2APy-co-o-PDA) have been prepared and characterized. The rheological characteristics and physicomechanical properties of the compounded rubber mixes and vulcanizates were investigated and determined. The effects of the prepared polymers on the ageing characteristics of corresponding vulcanizates were evaluated. It was found that the prepared polymers have shown better antioxidant efficiency than the conventional antioxidants phenylβnaphthyl amine (PβN) and the polymerized-2,2,4-trimethyl-1,2-dihydroquinoline (TMQ) industrially used in addition to their safety and ecofriendliness to the environment.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis after Treatment with Infliximab
Authors: Nagayama Yoshio , Matsushiro Naoki , Nampei Akihide , Hashimoto Hideo , Shi Kenrin
Published: February 2014

A 39-year-old female patient with rheumatoid arthritis developed Ramsay Hunt syndrome after infliximab treatment. This condition is caused by the reactivation of varicella zoster virus infection in the geniculate ganglion of facial nerve in the host’s immunosuppression. She was treated immediately with valaciclovir and hydrocortisone, and the complete recovery was achieved at 6 months after the onset. This is the first report of Ramsay Hunt syndrome as an adverse effect of infliximab in rheumatoid arthritis.
PZT‐Based Detection of Compactness of Concrete in Concrete Filled Steel Tube Using Time Reversal Method
Authors: Yan Shi , Fu Jinzhi , Sun Wei , Qi Baohui , Liu Fuxue
Published: February 2014

A smart aggregate‐based approach is proposed for the concrete compactness detection of concrete filled steel tube (CFST) columns. The piezoceramic‐based smart aggregates (SAs) were embedded in the predetermined locations prior to the casting of concrete columns to establish a wave‐based smart sensing system for the concrete compactness detection purpose. To evaluate the efficiency of the developed approach, six specimens of the CFST columns with the rectangular cross‐section were produced by placing some artificial defects during casting of concrete for simulating various uncompacted voids such as cavities, cracks, and debond. During the test, the time reversal technology was applied to rebuild the received signals and launch the reversed signals again by SAs, to overcome the issue of the lack of the prototype. Based on the proposed nonprototype, two indices of time reversibility (TR) and symmetry (SYM) were applied to relatively evaluate the level of concrete compactness in the range of the two SAs. The experimental results show that the developed method can effectively detect the compactness of concrete in CFST columns.