bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medical Infrared Imaging of Normal and Dysplastic Elbows in Dogs
Authors: McGowan Lauren , Loughin Catherine A , Marino Dominic J. , Umbaugh Scott E. , Liu Peng , Amini Maryam , Solt Patrick , Lesser Martin L. , Akerman Meredith
Published: October 2015

Objective

To investigate the ability of medical infrared imaging to differentiate between normal canine elbows and those with abnormal elbows (elbow dysplasia).

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Animals

Dogs with normal (n = 15) and abnormal (n = 14) elbows.

Methods

Infrared imaging was performed on all dogs and data analyzed via descriptive statistics and image pattern analysis software. Animals with elbow dysplasia had arthroscopic procedures to confirm the presence of elbow disease.

Results

Computer recognition pattern analysis was up to 100% correct in identifying abnormal elbows and normal elbows, with the medial images most consistent. The caudal, lateral, and cranial images correctly identified 83–100% abnormal elbows. The caudal and lateral images correctly identified 83% normal elbows. A significant difference in temperature was found between normal and abnormal elbows for the cranial full region of interest, lateral images, and each quadrant.

Conclusion

Medical infrared imaging was able to correctly identify known abnormal and known normal elbows in dogs.
Second Law Analysis Through a Porous Poiseuille–Benard Channel Flow
Authors: Tayari Amel , Hidouri Nejib , Magherbi Mourad , Brahim Ammar Ben
Published: October 2015

This paper proposes a numerical analysis of entropy generation during mixed convection inside a porous Poiseuille–Benard channel flow, where the Darcy–Brinkman model is used. Irreversibilities due to heat transfer and viscous dissipation have been derived, and then calculated by numerically solving mass, momentum, and energy conservation equations, by using a control volume finite element method (CVFEM). For a fixed value of the thermal Rayleigh (Ra = 104) and the modified Brinkman (Br* = 10−3) numbers, transient entropy generation exhibits a periodic behavior for the medium porosity ε ≥ 0.2, which is described by the onset of thermoconvective cells inside the porous channel. Highest irreversibility is obtained at ε = 0.5. More details about the effects of the Darcy, the Rayleigh, and the modified Brinkman numbers on entropy generation and heat transfer are discussed and graphically presented.
A Microresonant Gas Sensor by Micro-Electroforming
Authors: Xu Lizhong , Liu Yulei
Published: October 2015

The microsensors are mainly made with the single crystal silicon which requires expensive equipments and complicated process. Here, the micro-electroforming technology is used to fabricate the microresonant gas sensor. The fabricating process of the microresonant gas sensor is proposed. A microcantilever beam resonator 900 μm long, 300 μm wide, and 10 μm thick is fabricated. The resonant frequency shift is measured when exposed to ethanol vapor. Results show that the shift in the resonant frequency is approximately proportional to the ethanol vapor concentration, and the detection accuracy to ethanol vapor with the sensor is about 1 ppm per Hz frequency shift.
Shock Isolation in Finite-Length Dimer Chains With Linear, Cubic, and Hertzian Spring Interactions
Authors: Smith Eric , Ferri Aldo
Published: October 2015

This paper investigates the use of finite 1:1 dimer chains to mitigate the transmission of shock disturbances. Dimer chains consist of alternating light and heavy masses with interconnecting compliance. Changing the mass ratio has provided interesting results in previous research. In particular, in the case of Hertzian contacts with zero-preload, certain mass ratios have revealed minimal levels of transmitted force. This paper examines this phenomenon from the perspective of utilizing it in practical isolation systems. The zero-preload Hertzian contact case is contrasted with chains connected by linear or cubic springs. Through numerical simulations, tradeoffs are examined between displacement and transmitted force. Parametric studies are conducted to examine how isolation performance changes with mass ratio, stiffness, and different chain lengths.
Predictive Validity of an Adult Physical Activity “Vital Sign” Recorded in Electronic Health Records
Authors: Ball Trever J. , Joy Elizabeth A. , Gren Lisa H. , Cunningham Ruthann , Shaw Janet M.
Published: October 2015

Background:

Few have examined predictive relationships between physical activity (PA) and health using electronic health records (EHRs) of patient-reported PA.

Objective:

Assess initial predictive validity of the Physical Activity “Vital Sign” (PAVS) recorded in EHRs with BMI and disease burden.

Methods:

EHRs were from November 2011 to November 2013 (n = 34,712). Differences in not meeting Physical Activity Guidelines (PAG) were tested using chi-square analysis between being normal weight versus overweight/obese, and scoring below versus above the 50th percentile of the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Repeated measures logistic regression was used to determine odds of BMI and CCI classifications according to responses to the PAVS as not meeting PAG.

Results:

Patients who did not meet PAG according to the PAVS were more likely than normal weight patients to have a higher BMI (BMI 25.0–29.9, OR = 1.19, P = .001; BMI 30.0–34.9, OR = 1.39, P < .0001; BMI 35.0–39.9, OR = 2.42, P < .0001; BMI ≥ 40, OR = 3.7, P < .0001) and also higher disease burden (above 50th percentile for CCI, OR = 1.8, P < .0001).

Conclusions:

The strong association of the PAVS found with patient BMI and moderately-strong association with disease burden supports initial predictive validity of the PAVS recorded in EHRs. PA recorded in EHRs may be vastly useful for assessing patient disease and cost burdens attributed independently to PA behavior.
Exercise level before pregnancy and engaging in high-impact sports reduce the risk of pelvic girdle pain: a population-based cohort study of 39 184 women
Authors: Owe Katrine Mari , Bjelland Elisabeth K , Stuge Britt , Orsini Nicola , Eberhard-Gran Malin , Vangen Siri
Published: October 2015

Objective

To examine whether an association exists between exercise levels pre-pregnancy and pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy. Pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy has been associated with physical inactivity, a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

We used data from a population-based cohort study including 39 184 nulliparous women with a singleton pregnancy enrolled in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort study. Pre-pregnancy exercise frequency and types were assessed by questionnaire in pregnancy week 17. Pelvic girdle pain, defined as combined pain in the anterior pelvis and in the posterior pelvis bilaterally, was self-reported in pregnancy week 30. Multivariable Poisson regression estimated risks of pelvic girdle pain associated with pre-pregnancy exercise. We examined a dose–response association of prepregnancy exercise frequency using restricted cubic splines. A test for non-linearity was also conducted. Final models were adjusted for pre-pregnancy BMI, age, education, history of low back pain and history of depression.

Results

4069 women (10.4%) reported pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy and the prevalence among women who were non-exercisers prepregnancy was 12.5%. There was a non-linear association for pre-pregnancy exercise and risk of pelvic girdle pain (test for non-linearity, p=0.003). Compared to non-exercisers, women exercising 3–5 times weekly pre-pregnancy had a 14% lower risk of developing pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy (aRR 0.86, 95% CI 0.77 to 0.96). Taking part in high-impact exercises such as running, jogging, orienteering, ballgames, netball games and high-impact aerobics were associated with less risk of pelvic girdle pain.

Women who exercise regularly and engage in high-impact exercises before the first pregnancy may have a reduced risk of pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy.
A wide-gauge, large-mammal trackway from the upper Paleocene of Alberta, Canada
Authors: Henderson Donald M.
Published: October 2015

A very rare 11.2 m long wide-gauge trackway, made by an as yet undetermined large mammal, is described from the Lacombe Member (Late Paleocene) of the Paskapoo Formation (Paleocene). The exposure of the trackway was connected with the record-setting floods of 2013 in the province of Alberta as the tracks were exposed close to the base of the Brazeau Dam in west-central Alberta. The tracks are preserved on the top surface of a siltstone, but extensive erosion of the tracks resulted in the removal of details such as claw and digit traces, as well as any heel or palm impressions. The tracks are all circular to subcircular in outline, and it is not possible to determine the direction of travel of the trackmaker. Sequences of distinct pairings of adjacent tracks on both the left and right set of traces are present, and these are interpreted to represent manus-pes couples. The tracks do not show any overprinting. The mean pace angulations of the two best preserved sections range from 113° to 125°, while their mean stride lengths range from 95 to 96 cm. The lack of any distinctive anatomical details being preserved in the tracks prevents a precise identification of the trackmaker, but the sizes, shapes, and age of the tracks suggest that they could have been made by a large pantodont.
Softly fine-tuned Standard Model and the scale of inflation
Authors: Korutlu Beste
Published: October 2015

The direct coupling between the Higgs field and the spacetime curvature, if finely tuned, is known to stabilize the Higgs boson mass. The fine-tuning is soft because the Standard Model (SM) parameters are subject to no fine-tuning thanks to their independence from the Higgs-curvature coupling. This soft fine-tuning leaves behind a large vacuum energy [Formula: see text] which inflates the Universe with a Hubble rate [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] being the SM ultraviolet (UV) boundary. This means that the tensor-to-scalar ratio inferred from cosmic microwave background polarization measurements by BICEP2, Planck and others lead to the determination of [Formula: see text]. The exit from the inflationary phase, as usual, is accomplished via decays of the vacuum energy. Here, we show that, identification of [Formula: see text] with the inflaton, as a sliding UV scale upon the SM, respects the soft fine-tuning constraint and does not disrupt the stability of the SM Higgs boson.
On homogeneous and isotropic universe
Authors: Katanaev M. O.
Published: October 2015

We give a simple example of spacetime metric, illustrating that homogeneity and isotropy of space slices at all moments of time is not obligatory lifted to a full system of six Killing vector fields in spacetime, thus it cannot be interpreted as a symmetry of a four-dimensional metric. The metric depends on two arbitrary and independent functions of time. One of these functions is the usual scale factor. The second function cannot be removed by coordinate transformations. We prove that it must be equal to zero, if the metric satisfies Einstein’s equations and the matter energy–momentum tensor is homogeneous and isotropic. A new, equivalent, definition of homogeneous and isotropic spacetime is given.
An FPGA-Based High-Performance Neural Ensemble Spiking Activity Simulator Utilizing Generalized Volterra Kernel and Complexity Analysis
Authors: Li Will X. Y. , Cheung Ray C. C. , Xin Yao , Song Dong , Berger Theodore W.
Published: October 2015

Neural information is represented and transmitted among neuronal units by a series of all-or-none “neural codes”. During the process of neural prosthesis design, generally, a large amount of “neural codes” need to be captured and analyzed, which brings about an important discipline, known as neuroinformatics. However, in neuroinformatics study, this coding process, also termed as “spiking activity”, is not straightforward for prediction. It is owing to the high nonlinearity and dynamic property involved in generation of the neuronal spikes. In this paper, a novel generalized Volterra kernel-based neural spiking activity simulator is introduced for prediction of the neural codes in mammalian hippocampal region. High-performance VLSI architecture is established for the simulator based on high-order Volterra kernels involving cross-terms. The effectiveness and efficiency of the simulator are proven in experimental settings. This simulator has the potential to serve as a core functional unit in future hippocampal cognitive neural prosthesis.
Mora’s holy graal: Algorithms for computing in localizations at prime ideals
Authors: Marais Magdaleen S. , Ren Yue
Published: October 2015

This paper discusses a computational treatment of the localization [Formula: see text] of an affine coordinate ring [Formula: see text] at a prime ideal [Formula: see text] and its associated graded algebra [Formula: see text] with the means of computer algebra. Building on Mora’s paper [T. Mora, La queste del Saint [Formula: see text]: A computational approach to local algebra, Discrete Appl. Math. 33 (1991) 161–190], we present shorter proofs on two of the central statements and expand on the applications touched by Mora: resolutions of ideals, systems of parameters and Hilbert polynomials, as well as dimension and regularity of [Formula: see text]. All algorithms are implemented in the library graal.lib for the computer algebra system Singular.
Introduction to hydrodynamics
Authors: Jeon Sangyong , Heinz Ulrich
Published: October 2015

Hydrodynamics has been successful in providing a good description of the bulk dynamics in ultra-relativistic heavy ion collisions. In this brief review, we provide basics of the theory of viscous hydrodynamics. Topics covered include derivation of the 2nd order viscous hydrodynamics from the linear response theory and kinetic theory, viscous anisotropic hydrodynamics, and numerical implementation of relativistic hydrodynamics.
Ground state properties of even–even and odd Nd, Ce and Sm isotopes in Hartree–Fock–Bogoliubov method
Authors: Bassem Y. El , Oulne M.
Published: October 2015

In this work, we have studied the ground state properties of both even–even and odd Nd isotopes within Hartree–Fock–Bogoliubov method with SLy5 Skyrme force in which the pairing strength has been generalized with a new proposed formula. We calculated binding energies, two-neutron separation energies, quadrupole deformation, charge, neutron and proton radii. Similar calculations have been carried out for Ce and Sm in order to verify the validity of our pairing strength formula. The results have been compared with available experimental data, the results of Hartree–Fock–Bogoliubov calculations based on the D1S Gogny effective nucleon–nucleon interaction and predictions of some nuclear models such as finite range droplet model (FRDM) and relativistic mean field (RMF) theory.
Stability Analysis of Uncertain Systems Using a Singular Value Decomposition-Based Metric
Authors: Son Young Kap , Savage Gordon J.
Published: October 2015

The stability of dynamic systems is important for satisfactory performance, safety and reliability. The study becomes more difficult when the system is nonlinear and when the ever present uncertainties in the components are considered. Herein a new approach is presented that uses time-domain information: It invokes design of experiments based on the uncertainty within the system, computer simulation of the dynamics to generate a matrix of discrete time responses that presents the variability of the response, and finally, singular value decomposition to separate out parameter information from time information. The variability in the elements in the first few left singular vectors predicts any instability that might occur over the complete life-time of the system. The key to the approach is the introduction of random variables and subsequent co-variance operations. A real-world example and comparison to established methods show the efficacy of the approach.
Multi-Modal Scene Duplicate Detection from News Videos Focusing on Human Faces
Authors: Kumagai Haruka , Ide Ichiro , Murase Hiroshi , Doman Keisuke , Deguchi Daisuke
Published: October 2015

In this paper, as a tool for structuring a large volume of archived news videos according to their semantic contents, we propose a method that effectively detects scene duplicates, assuming the presence of a person speaking in the videos. A scene duplicate is defined here as a pair of video segments taken at the same event from different viewpoints. When considering scenes where a subject is speaking in news videos, referring to the audio channel could be effective to detect scene duplicates regardless of viewpoints. However, it cannot be relied on when external audio sources overlap the original one or when the subject is actually not speaking. In contrast, the image channel can be useful in most cases. However, significant difference in viewpoints could prevent accurate detection. Therefore, we propose a method that combines the results obtained from both audio and image channels in order to improve the accuracy of scene duplicate detection from news videos. The proposed method was evaluated through an experiment with actual broadcast news videos by comparing it with a conventional method. As a result, we confirmed that the detection accuracy significantly improved by the proposed method in both recall and precision.
The asymptotic behavior and ergodicity of stochastically perturbed SVIR epidemic model
Authors: Zhao Yanan , Jiang Daqing
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we introduce stochasticity into an SIR epidemic model with vaccination. The stochasticity in the model is a standard technique in stochastic population modeling. When the perturbations are small, by the method of stochastic Lyapunov functions, we carry out a detailed analysis on the dynamical behavior of the stochastic model regarding of the basic reproduction number [Formula: see text]. If [Formula: see text], the solution of the model is oscillating around a steady state, which is the disease-free equilibrium of the corresponding deterministic model. If [Formula: see text], there is a stationary distribution and the solution has the ergodic property, which means that the disease will prevail.
Spectral selective fluorescence molecular imaging with volume holographic imaging system
Authors: Lv Yanlu , Zhang Jiulou , Liu Fei , Shi Junwei , Guang Huizhi , Bai Jing , Luo Jianwen
Published: October 2015

A compact volume holographic imaging (VHI) method that can detect fluorescence objects located in diffusive medium in spectral selective imaging manner is presented. The enlargement of lateral field of view of the VHI system is realized by using broadband illumination and demagnification optics. Each target spectrum of fluorescence emitting from a diffusive medium is probed by tuning the inclination angle of the transmission volume holographic grating (VHG). With the use of the single transmission VHG, fluorescence images with different spectrum are obtained sequentially and precise three-dimensional (3D) information of deep fluorescent objects located in a diffusive medium can be reconstructed from these images. The results of phantom experiments demonstrate that two fluorescent objects with a sub-millimeter distance can be resolved by spectral selective imaging.
Placenta: The Forgotten Organ
Authors: Maltepe Emin , Fisher Susan J.
Published: October 2015

The placenta sits at the interface between the maternal and fetal vascular beds where it mediates nutrient and waste exchange to enable in utero existence. Placental cells (trophoblasts) accomplish this via invading and remodeling the uterine vasculature. Amazingly, despite being of fetal origin, trophoblasts do not trigger a significant maternal immune response. Additionally, they maintain a highly reliable hemostasis in this extremely vascular interface. Decades of research into how the placenta differentiates itself from embryonic tissues to accomplish these and other feats have revealed a previously unappreciated level of complexity with respect to the placenta's cellular composition. Additionally, novel insights with respect to roles played by the placenta in guiding fetal development and metabolism have sparked a renewed interest in understanding the interrelationship between fetal and placental well-being. Here, we present an overview of emerging research in placental biology that highlights these themes and the importance of the placenta to fetal and adult health.
Population Graphs and Landscape Genetics
Authors: Dyer Rodney J.
Published: October 2015

At the heart of the analyses of landscape genetics are isolation models seeking to explain either interindividual or interpopulation connectivity. These models use spatial, ecological, and topographic predictor variables measured between sites in an attempt to explain observed genetic variation. During the past decade, these models have adopted an increasingly sophisticated set of techniques to quantify intervening physical and ecological spaces, although they are restrained by rather mundane approaches to characterizing the genetic components of connectivity. Population Graphs are one approach to improving the quantification of genetic covariance used in models of landscape genetics. I explain the construction of the Population Graph framework, explain its strengths and weaknesses, and provide examples of how it has been used during the past decade within the contexts of landscape and population genetics.
DNA Damage and Repair in Vascular Disease
Authors: Uryga Anna , Gray Kelly , Bennett Martin
Published: October 2015

DNA damage affecting both genomic and mitochondrial DNA is present in a variety of both inherited and acquired vascular diseases. Multiple cell types show persistent DNA damage and a range of lesions. In turn, DNA damage activates a variety of DNA repair mechanisms, many of which are activated in vascular disease. Such DNA repair mechanisms either stall the cell cycle to allow repair to occur or trigger apoptosis or cell senescence to prevent propagation of damaged DNA. Recent evidence has indicated that DNA damage occurs early, is progressive, and is sufficient to impair function of cells composing the vascular wall. The consequences of persistent genomic and mitochondrial DNA damage, including inflammation, cell senescence, and apoptosis, are present in vascular disease. DNA damage can thus directly cause vascular disease, opening up new possibilities for both prevention and treatment. We review the evidence for and the causes, types, and consequences of DNA damage in vascular disease.
Enteroendocrine Cells: Chemosensors in the Intestinal Epithelium
Authors: Gribble Fiona M. , Reimann Frank
Published: October 2015

The enteroendocrine system orchestrates how the body responds to the ingestion of foods, employing a diversity of hormones to fine-tune a wide range of physiological responses both within and outside the gut. Recent interest in gut hormones has surged with the realization that they modulate glucose tolerance and food intake through a variety of mechanisms, and such hormones are therefore excellent therapeutic candidates for the treatment of diabetes and obesity. Characterizing the roles and functions of different enteroendocrine cells is an essential step in understanding the physiology, pathophysiology, and therapeutics of the gut-brain-pancreas axis.
The Dynamics of a Delayed Predator-Prey Model with Double Allee Effect
Authors: Xie Boli , Wang Zhijun , Xue Yakui , Zhang Zhenmin
Published: October 2015

We study the dynamics of a delayed predator-prey model with double Allee effect. For the temporal model, we showed that there exists a threshold of time delay in predator-prey interactions; when time delay is below the threshold value, the positive equilibriumE∗is stable. However, when time delay is above the threshold value, the positive equilibriumE∗is unstable and period solution will emerge. For the spatiotemporal model, through numerical simulations, we show that the model dynamics exhibit rich parameter space Turing structures. The obtained results show that this system has rich dynamics; these patterns show that it is useful for a delayed predator-prey model with double Allee effect to reveal the spatial dynamics in the real model.
Queue Length and Server Content Distribution in an Infinite-Buffer Batch-Service Queue with Batch-Size-Dependent Service
Authors: Gupta U. C. , Pradhan S.
Published: October 2015

We analyze an infinite-buffer batch-size-dependent batch-service queue with Poisson arrival and arbitrarily distributed service time. Using supplementary variable technique, we derive a bivariate probability generating function from which the joint distribution of queue and server content at departure epoch of a batch is extracted and presented in terms of roots of the characteristic equation. We also obtain the joint distribution of queue and server content at arbitrary epoch. Finally, the utility of analytical results is demonstrated by the inclusion of some numerical examples which also includes the investigation of multiple zeros.
The Quark-Gluon Plasma Equation of State and the Generalized Uncertainty Principle
Authors: Abou-Salem L. I. , El Naggar N. M. , Elmashad I. A.
Published: October 2015

The quark-gluon plasma (QGP) equation of state within a minimal length scenario or Generalized Uncertainty Principle (GUP) is studied. The Generalized Uncertainty Principle is implemented on deriving the thermodynamics of ideal QGP at a vanishing chemical potential. We find a significant effect for the GUP term. The main features of QCD lattice results were quantitatively achieved in case ofnf=0,nf=2, andnf=2+1flavors for the energy density, the pressure, and the interaction measure. The exciting point is the large value of bag pressure especially in case ofnf=2+1flavor which reflects the strong correlation between quarks in this bag which is already expected. One can notice that the asymptotic behavior which is characterized by Stephan-Boltzmann limit would be satisfied.
Chebyshev Similarity Match between Uncertain Time Series
Authors: Wang Wei , Liu Guohua , Liu Dingjia
Published: October 2015

In real application scenarios, the inherent impreciseness of sensor readings, the intentional perturbation of privacy-preserving transformations, and error-prone mining algorithms cause much uncertainty of time series data. The uncertainty brings serious challenges for the similarity measurement of time series. In this paper, we first propose a model of uncertain time series inspired by Chebyshev inequality. It estimates possible sample value range and central tendency range in terms of sample estimation interval and central tendency estimation interval, respectively, at each time slot. In comparison with traditional models adopting repeated measurements and random variable, Chebyshev model reduces overall computational cost and requires no prior knowledge. We convert Chebyshev uncertain time series into certain time series matrix; therefore noise reduction and dimensionality reduction are available for uncertain time series. Secondly, we propose a new similarity matching method based on Chebyshev model. It depends on overlaps between two sample estimation intervals and overlaps between central tendency estimation intervals from different uncertain time series. At the end of this paper, we conduct an extensive experiment and analyze the results by comparing with prior works.
In VitroEvaluation of Scaffolds for the Delivery of Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Wounds
Authors: Wahl Elizabeth A. , Fierro Fernando A. , Peavy Thomas R. , Hopfner Ursula , Dye Julian F. , Machens Hans-Günther , Egaña José T. , Schenck Thilo L.
Published: October 2015

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to improve tissue regeneration in several preclinical and clinical trials. These cells have been used in combination with three-dimensional scaffolds as a promising approach in the field of regenerative medicine. We compare the behavior of human adipose-derived MSCs (AdMSCs) on four different biomaterials that are awaiting or have already received FDA approval to determine a suitable regenerative scaffold for delivering these cells to dermal wounds and increasing healing potential. AdMSCs were isolated, characterized, and seeded onto scaffolds based on chitosan, fibrin, bovine collagen, and decellularized porcine dermis.In vitroresults demonstrated that the scaffolds strongly influence key parameters, such as seeding efficiency, cellular distribution, attachment, survival, metabolic activity, and paracrine release. Chick chorioallantoic membrane assays revealed that the scaffold composition similarly influences the angiogenic potential of AdMSCsin vivo. The wound healing potential of scaffolds increases by means of a synergistic relationship between AdMSCs and biomaterial resulting in the release of proangiogenic and cytokine factors, which is currently lacking when a scaffold alone is utilized. Furthermore, the methods used herein can be utilized to test other scaffold materials to increase their wound healing potential with AdMSCs.
Modulation of Voltage‐Gated Sodium Channels by Activation of Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor‐1 and Receptor‐2 in Small DRG Neurons of Rats
Authors: Leo M. , Argalski S. , Schäfers M. , Hagenacker T.
Published: October 2015

Tumor necrosis factor‐ (TNF‐) α is a proinflammatory cytokine involved in the development and maintenance of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Its effects are mediated by two receptors, TNF receptor‐1 (TNFR‐1) and TNF receptor‐2 (TNFR‐2). These receptors play a crucial role in the sensitization of voltage‐gated sodium channels (VGSCs), a key mechanism in the pathogenesis of chronic pain. Using the whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique, we examined the influence of TNFR‐1 and TNFR‐2 on VGSCs and TTX‐resistant NaV1.8 channels in isolated rat dorsal root ganglion neurons by using selective TNFR agonists. The TNFR‐1 agonist R32W (10 pg/mL) caused an increase in the VGSC current (INa(V)) by 27.2 ± 5.1%, while the TNFR‐2 agonist D145 (10 pg/mL) increased the current by 44.9 ± 2.6%. This effect was dose dependent. Treating isolated NaV1.8 with R32W (100 pg/mL) resulted in an increase in INaV(1.8) by 18.9 ± 1.6%, while treatment with D145 (100 pg/mL) increased the current by 14.5 ± 3.7%. Based on the current‐voltage relationship, 10 pg of R32W or D145 led to an increase in INa(V) in a bell‐shaped, voltage‐dependent manner with a maximum effect at −30 mV. The effects of TNFR activation on VGSCs promote excitation in primary afferent neurons and this might explain the sensitization mechanisms associated with neuropathic and inflammatory pain.
Sensor Communication Rate Control Scheme Based on Inference Game Approach
Authors: Kim Sungwook
Published: October 2015

In real-life situations, decisions must be made even when limited or uncertain information is available. Therefore, the payoff of an action is not clearly known when the decision is made. Recently, game theory has become a powerful tool for analyzing the interactions between decision makers in many domains. However, the traditional game theory approach assumes that a player belief about the payoff of a strategy taken is accurate. To address this problem, we introduce a new kind of game, called an inference game, and study how degrees of uncertainty of belief about payoffs impact the outcomes of real-world games. To approximate an optimal decision, our proposed inference game model can clarify how to better manage ambiguous information. In this study, we apply our inference game model to the sensor communication paradigm and confirm that our approach achieves better performance than other existing sensor communication schemes in widely diverse Internet of Things (IoT) environments.
Preparation of U–Zr–Mn, a Surrogate Alloy for Recycling Fast Reactor Fuel
Authors: Kim Jong-Hwan , Kim Ki-Hwan , Lee Chan-Bock
Published: October 2015

Metallic fuel slugs of U–10Zr–5Mn (wt%), a surrogate alloy for the U–TRU–Zr (TRU: a transuranic element) alloys proposed for sodium-cooled fast reactors, were prepared by injection casting in a laboratory-scale furnace, and their characteristics were evaluated. As-cast U–Zr–Mn fuel rods were generally sound, without cracks or thin sections. Approximately 68% of the original Mn content was lost under dynamic vacuum and the resulting slug was denser than those prepared under Ar pressure. The concentration of volatile Mn was as per the target composition along the entire length of the rods prepared under 400 and 600 Torr. Impurities, namely, oxygen, carbon, silicon, and nitrogen, totaled less than 2,000 ppm, satisfying fuel criteria.
Titanium-Based Hip Stems with Drug Delivery Functionality through Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Bezuidenhout Martin B. , Dimitrov Dimitar M. , van Staden Anton D. , Oosthuizen Gert A. , Dicks Leon M. T.
Published: October 2015

Postoperative infections are a major concern in patients that receive implants. These infections generally occur in areas with poor blood flow and pathogens do not always respond to antibiotic treatment. With the latest developments in nanotechnology, the incorporation of antibiotics into prosthetic implants may soon become a standard procedure. The success will, however, depend on the ability to control the release of antibiotics at concentrations high enough to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant strains. Through additive manufacturing, antibiotics can be incorporated into cementless femoral stems to produce prosthetic devices with antimicrobial properties. With the emerging increase in resistance to antibiotics, the incorporation of antimicrobial compounds other than antibiotics, preferably drugs with a broader spectrum of antimicrobial activity, will have to be explored. This review highlights the microorganisms associated with total hip arthroplasty (THA), discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the latest materials used in hip implants, compares different antimicrobial agents that could be incorporated, and addresses novel ideas for future research.
Comparative Study of the Accuracy of Different Techniques for the Laboratory Diagnosis of Schistosomiasis Mansoni in Areas of Low Endemicity in Barra Mansa City, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil
Authors: Espírito-Santo Maria Cristina Carvalho , Alvarado-Mora Mónica Viviana , Pinto Pedro Luiz Silva , Sanchez Maria Carmen Arroyo , Dias-Neto Emmanuel , Castilho Vera Lúcia Pagliusi , Gonçalves Elenice Messias do Nascimento , Chieffi Pedro Paulo , Luna Expedito José de Albuquerque , Pinho João Renato Rebello , Carrilho Flair José , Gryschek Ronaldo Cesar Borges
Published: October 2015

Schistosomiasis constitutes a major public health problem, with an estimated 200 million people infected worldwide. Many areas of Brazil show low endemicity of schistosomiasis, and the current standard parasitological techniques are not sufficiently sensitive to detect the low-level helminth infections common in areas of low endemicity (ALEs). This study compared the Kato-Katz (KK); Hoffman, Pons, and Janer (HH); enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay- (ELISA-) IgG and ELISA-IgM; indirect immunofluorescence technique (IFT-IgM); and qPCR techniques for schistosomiasis detection in serum and fecal samples, using the circumoval precipitin test (COPT) as reference. An epidemiological survey was conducted in a randomized sample of residents from five neighborhoods of Barra Mansa, RJ, with 610 fecal and 612 serum samples. ELISA-IgM (21.4%) showed the highest positivity and HH and KK techniques were the least sensitive (0.8%). All techniques except qPCR-serum showed high accuracy (82–95.5%), differed significantly from COPT in positivityP<0.05, and showed poor agreement with COPT. Medium agreement was seen with ELISA-IgG (Kappa = 0.377) and IFA (Kappa = 0.347). Parasitological techniques showed much lower positivity rates than those by other techniques. We suggest the possibility of using a combination of laboratory tools for the diagnosis of schistosomiasis in ALEs.
Worksite Tobacco Prevention: A Randomized, Controlled Trial of Adoption, Dissemination Strategies, and Aggregated Health-Related Outcomes across Companies
Authors: Friedrich Verena , Brügger Adrian , Bauer Georg F.
Published: October 2015

Evidence based public health requires knowledge about successful dissemination of public health measures. This study analyses (a) the changes in worksite tobacco prevention (TP) in the Canton of Zurich, Switzerland, between 2007 and 2009; (b1) the results of a multistep versus a “brochure only” dissemination strategy; (b2) the results of a monothematic versus a comprehensive dissemination strategy that aim to get companies to adopt TP measures; and (c) whether worksite TP is associated with health-related outcomes. A longitudinal design with randomized control groups was applied. Data on worksite TP and health-related outcomes were gathered by a written questionnaire (baselinen=1627; follow-upn=1452) and analysed using descriptive statistics, nonparametric procedures, and ordinal regression models. TP measures at worksites improved slightly between 2007 and 2009. The multistep dissemination was superior to the “brochure only” condition. No significant differences between the monothematic and the comprehensive dissemination strategies were observed. However, improvements in TP measures at worksites were associated with improvements in health-related outcomes. Although dissemination was approached at a mass scale, little change in the advocated adoption of TP measures was observed, suggesting the need for even more aggressive outreach or an acceptance that these channels do not seem to be sufficiently effective.
Exploiting the User-Level Interference Based on Network Coding in D2D Underlaid Cellular Networks
Authors: Guo Yijun , Gao Jing , Hao Jianjun
Published: October 2015

Interference is an important and challenging problem faced by the D2D underlaid cellular networks. In this paper, we focus on the user-level interference under multicasting scenarios. Rather than the traditional pairwise way of D2D communications, we propose to implement the information exchanging through a groupwise way. Through introducing the idea of network coding, the proposed scheme is able to utilize the interference as valid signals to enhance the receiving performance, instead of only managing or controlling it. Both theoretical analysis and simulation results prove that the proposed scheme achieves better SINR performance and lower resources occupation than the traditional pairwise D2D transmission schemes.
Polymorphisms of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha in Moroccan Patients with Gastric Pathology: New Single‐Nucleotide Polymorphisms in TNF‐α−193 (G/A)
Authors: Essadik A. , Jouhadi H. , Rhouda T. , Nadifiyine S. , Kettani A. , Maachi F.
Published: October 2015

Polymorphisms in tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) gene are emerging as key determinants of gastric diseases. The TNF‐α−308 (G/A) and TNF‐α−238 (G/A) single‐nucleotide polymorphisms SNPs are the most extensively studied. However, all these studies are conducted in Caucasian and Asian populations. Thus, for the first time in Africa, we sought to investigate whether polymorphisms in TNF‐α gene were associated with the development of gastric pathology in Morocco. Two SNPs located in the promoter region (positions −308 and −238) in TNF‐α gene were genotyped in 244 individuals (170 patients and 74 healthy controls). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using logistic regression analysis. The TNF‐α−238 (G/A) genotype was significantly associated with a high risk of gastritis and gastric cancer (GC) (P = 0.001 and P = 0.002, resp.). Furthermore, a new polymorphism located in the promoter region at position −193 in TNF‐α gene was identified. The distribution of this SNP was markedly different in patients suffering from ulcers. The association between TNF‐α−193 (G/A) genotype and high risk of ulcer was significant (P = 0.03). These results suggest that the TNF‐α−193 (G/A) allele has a protective function against gastric cancer by developing ulcer.
Nonlinear Partial Least Squares for Consistency Analysis of Meteorological Data
Authors: Meng Zhen , Zhang Shichang , Yang Yan , Liu Ming
Published: October 2015

Considering the different types of error and the nonlinearity of the meteorological measurement, this paper proposes a nonlinear partial least squares method for consistency analysis of meteorological data. For a meteorological element from one automated weather station, the proposed method builds the prediction model based on the corresponding meteorological elements of other surrounding automated weather stations to determine the abnormality of the measured values. For the proposed method, the latent variables of the independent variables and the dependent variables are extracted by the partial least squares (PLS), and then they are, respectively, used as the inputs and outputs of neural network to build the nonlinear internal model of PLS. The proposed method can deal with the limitation of traditional nonlinear PLS whose inner model is the fixed quadratic function or the spline function. Two typical neural networks are used in the proposed method, and they are the back propagation neural network and the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). Moreover, the experiments are performed on the real data from the atmospheric observation equipment operation monitoring system of Shaanxi Province of China. The experimental results verify that the nonlinear PLS with the internal model of ANFIS has higher effectiveness and could realize the consistency analysis of meteorological data correctly.
Neurophysiological Indicators of Residual Cognitive Capacity in the Minimally Conscious State
Authors: Hauger Solveig L. , Schnakers Caroline , Andersson Stein , Becker Frank , Moberget Torgeir , Giacino Joseph T. , Schanke Anne-Kristine , Løvstad Marianne
Published: October 2015

Background. The diagnostic usefulness of electrophysiological methods in assessing disorders of consciousness (DoC) remains to be established on an individual patient level, and there is need to determine what constitutes robust experimental paradigm to elicit electrophysiological indices of covert cognitive capacity.Objectives. Two tasks encompassing active and passive conditions were explored in an event-related potentials (ERP) study. The task robustness was studied in healthy controls, and their utility to detect covert signs of command-following on an individual patient level was investigated in patients in a minimally conscious state (MCS).Methods. Twenty healthy controls and 20 MCS patients participated. The active tasks included (1) listening for a change of pitch in the subject’s own name (SON) and (2) counting SON, both contrasted to passive conditions. Midline ERPs are reported.Results. A larger P3 response was detected in the counting task compared to active listening to pitch change in the healthy controls. On an individual level, the counting task revealed a higher rate of responders among both healthy subjects and MCS patients.Conclusion. ERP paradigms involving actively counting SON represent a robust paradigm in probing for volitional cognition in minimally conscious patients and add important diagnostic information in some patients.
Lung Epithelial TRPA1 Transduces the Extracellular ROS into Transcriptional Regulation of Lung Inflammation Induced by Cigarette Smoke: The Role of Influxed Ca2+
Authors: Lin An-Hsuan , Liu Meng-Han , Ko Hsin-Kuo , Perng Diahn-Warng , Lee Tzong-Shyuan , Kou Yu Ru
Published: October 2015

The mechanism underlying the inflammatory role of TRPA1 in lung epithelial cells (LECs) remains unclear. Here, we show that cigarette smoke extract (CSE) sequentially induced several events in LECs. The Ca2+ influx was prevented by decreasing extracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) with the scavenger N‐acetyl‐cysteine, removing extracellular Ca2+ with the chelator EGTA, or treating with the TRPA1 antagonist HC030031. NADPH oxidase activation was abolished by its inhibitor apocynin, EGTA, or HC030031. The increased intracellular ROS was halted by apocynin, N‐acetyl‐cysteine, or HC030031. The activation of the MAPKs/NF‐κB signaling was suppressed by EGTA, N‐acetyl‐cysteine, or HC030031. IL‐8 induction was inhibited by HC030031 or TRPA1 siRNA. Additionally, chronic cigarette smoke (CS) exposure in wild‐type mice induced TRPA1 expression in LECs and lung tissues. In CS‐exposure trpa1−/− mice, the increased BALF level of ROS was similar to that of CS‐exposure wild‐type mice; yet lung inflammation was lessened. Thus, in LECs, CSE may initially increase extracellular ROS, which activate TRPA1 leading to an increase in Ca2+ influx. The increased intracellular Ca2+ contributes to activation of NADPH oxidase, resulting in increased intracellular ROS, which activate the MAPKs/NF‐κB signaling leading to IL‐8 induction. This mechanism may possibly be at work in mice chronically exposed to CS.
Challenges and Opportunities for Exploring Patient-Level Data
Authors: Lopes Pedro , Silva Luis Bastião , Oliveira José Luis
Published: October 2015

The proper exploration of patient-level data will pave the way towards personalised medicine. To better assess the state of the art in this field we identify the challenges and uncover the opportunities for the exploration of patient-level data through the review of well-known initiatives and projects focusing on the exploration of patient-level data. These cover a broad array of topics, from genomics to patient registries up to rare diseases research, among others. For each, we identified basic goals, involved partners, defined strategies and key technological and scientific outcomes, establishing the foundation for our analysis framework with four pillars: control, sustainability, technology, and science. Substantial research outcomes have been produced towards the exploration of patient-level data. The potential behind these data will be essential to realise the personalised medicine premise in upcoming years. Hence, relevant stakeholders continually push forward new developments in this domain, bringing novel opportunities that are ripe for exploration. Despite last decade’s translational research advances, personalised medicine is still far from being a reality. Patients’ data underlying potential goes beyond daily clinical practice. There are miscellaneous challenges and opportunities open for the exploration of these data by academia and business stakeholders.
Sensitive Analysis for the Efficiency of a Parabolic Trough Solar Collector Based on Orthogonal Experiment
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Huang Jing , Mao Qianjun
Published: October 2015

A multitude of the researches focus on the factors of the thermal efficiency of a parabolic trough solar collector, that is, the optical-thermal efficiency. However, it is limited to a single or double factors for available system. The aim of this paper is to investigate the multifactors effect on the system’s efficiency in cold climate region. Taking climatic performance into account, an average outlet temperature of LS-2 collector has been simulated successfully by coupling SolTrace software with CFD software. Effects of different factors on instantaneous efficiency have been determined by orthogonal experiment and single factor experiment. After that, the influence degree of different factors on the collector instantaneous efficiency is obtained clearly. The results show that the order of effect extent for average maximal deviation of each factor is inlet temperature, solar radiation intensity, diameter, flow rate, condensation area, pipe length, and ambient temperature. The encouraging results will provide a reference for the exploitation and utilization of parabolic trough solar collector in cold climate region.