bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of speech recognition by cochlear implant users with metrics based on thresholds and loudness levels
Authors: Xu Li , Pfingst Bryan
Published: October 2013

Intersubject variability in speech recognition is a persistent characteristic of cochlear implant users, despite significant improvements in average performance. This study examines simple psychophysical measures, maximum comfortable loudness levels (C-levels) and dynamic ranges (DRs) that may serve for diagnosis of conditions that affect speech recognition. Eighteen subjects who had used Nucleus CI24 cochlear implants for a minimum of 1 year participated in the study. T and C levels were measured using the method of adjustment. Consonant, vowel, and sentence recognition were tested using the subjects everyday speech processors (SPEAK or ACE). Across-site variation (ASV) was quantified for each subject using the variance of the T and C levels across all tested stimulation sites. Mean DRs (C levels minus T levels) for all tested sites were calculated for each subject. The results showed a moderate but significant negative correlation between speech-recognition performance and ASV of the T and C levels measured with both monopolar and bipolar electrode configurations. Mean DRs also correlated with speech performance. These results support the hypothesis that the large across-site variation in detection thresholds and small dynamic range reflect conditions that are detrimental to speech-recognition with cochlear implants. [Work supported by NIDCD Grant DC03808.]
Synthetic aperture sonar applied to a multibeam volume imaging sonar
Authors: Hamilton Michael
Published: October 2013

The possibility of using synthetic aperture sonar (SAS) processing techniques on a multibeam volume imaging sonar (the Buried Object Search Sonar, or BOSS) is explored. A system algorithm is developed which involves first forming several parallel synthetic apertures from a translated array oriented in the cross-track direction, then beamforming the synthetic apertures to form a fully 3D volumetric representation. The validity of the technique is verified by taking data from a subaperture of an experimental cable-guided multibeam system and applying the SAS processing string. Test targets are examined, including spheres and cylinders. The process proved quite robust, particularly considering that the system was not originally designed for SAS processing, and no sophisticated motion compensation schemes were employed. Implications for multibeam SAS processing of future AUV-based systems are discussed. [Work supported by ONR’s National Research Enterprise Internship Program, and performed at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City, FL.]
Micromachined variable impedance acoustic waveguides for fluid-structure waves
Authors: White Robert D. , Grosh Karl
Published: October 2013

Micromachined fluid filled variable impedance waveguides intended to mimic the mechanics of the passive cochlea have been fabricated and experimentally examined. These devices consist of a fluid filled chamber of dimension 37 mm by 6.25 mm by 0.1 mm fabricated on a pyrex wafer. One side of this chamber is constrained by a 3-cm-long, exponentially tapered, 0.3-μm thick tensioned membrane made of low-pressure chemical vapor deposited (LPCVD) silicon nitride. The membranes vary in width from 170 μm to 1.9 mm, and are fabricated using deep reactive ion etching (DRIE). The devices are filled with silicone oil or de-ionized water. Experimental tests demonstrate acoustically excited traveling fluid-structure waves with wave numbers well below the free-plane wave wave number, and with phase accumulations as high as 25 rad (at 6.5 kHz) in the 3 cm length of the device. Comparison of experimental measurements with both numerical (finite-element) and asymptotic (Liouville–Green) models assist in understanding the results. A thin-layer finite-element approximation is developed to take advantage of the device aspect ratio and increase computational efficiency. Viscous fluid effects are included in the models to accurately capture damping phenomena. [Work supported by ONR and NSF.]
Sub-bottom profiling by inverting ambient noise
Authors: Harrison Chris H.
Published: October 2013

In this paper a technique based on spectral factorization for restoring the phase of incoherent bottom sediment reflection coefficient measurements is presented, so that by Fourier transformation one can then obtain the minimum phase impulse response at each grazing angle. The method is developed and discussed in the context of another recently established technique for extracting the seabed’s plane wave reflection coefficient from ambient noise data measured on a moored or drifting vertical array (VLA). Limitations of the phase restoration method are discussed, and using modeled data, comparisons are made between the ‘‘true’’ impulse response derived from the known complex reflection coefficient and the result of applying spectral factorization to the absolute value of the reflection coefficient. For instance, in both cases one can see clear, matching arrivals from each layer boundary at angles above critical. Finally the method is demonstrated on experimental reflection loss inferred from ambient noise measurements at three moored VLA sites and one VLA drift track in the Mediterranean Sea. Convincing angular variation of the impulse response is shown for the moored sites. Sub-bottom profiles (impulse response vs position) are shown for the drift track demonstrating that one can survey with just a single directional receiver.
Open cycle traveling wave thermoacoustics
Authors: Weiland Nathan T. , Zinn Ben T.
Published: October 2013

The concepts and basic operation of open cycle traveling wave thermoacoustic devices are discussed for the case of a simple thermoacoustic engine, where a steady flow of hot gas replaces the hot heat exchanger as the means for supplying heat to the engine. It has been determined that a large mean temperature difference must exist where the mean flow first meets the regenerator for the engine to produce any acoustic power, due to the joining conditions between the ideally isothermal environment in the regenerator and the isentropic environment of the adjoining open duct that contains the mean flow. The physics behind this temperature difference is discussed, as well as its effects on the various energy fluxes in the thermoacoustic engine. In particular, it is shown that the acoustic power output and thermal efficiency of the engine can be maximized with respect to the magnitude of this temperature difference.
Direct measurement of clarinet air column oscillations
Authors: Jones Jesse , Rogers Chris , French Chris
Published: October 2013

The internal oscillation of a clarinet air column has been directly measured through the implementation of hot-wire anemometry. By taking a series of measurements down the centerline of the bore, velocity and pressure modal shapes of individual harmonics are separated, measured, and plotted. Finally, composite averaged power spectra of the internal oscillation are presented and compared to acoustic measurements acquired outside the clarinet. In many cases, the even harmonics of the internal oscillation dominate over the power found in the odd harmonics. This contradicts the classic model of the clarinet as a cylindrical pipe closed at one end and open at the other (where only odd harmonics are produced). Further, the data from the direct velocity measurements also contradict the externally acquired acoustic data, where odd harmonics generally dominate for the lowest 5–9 harmonics. Thus the clarinet, in theory and practice, is generally considered incapable of generating strong even harmonics. In this research, however, it is seen that dominate even harmonics are generated, but the energy for these frequencies is largely trapped inside the clarinet, whereas the energy associated with the odd harmonics is released to the ambient. [This research was conducted with the support of Selmer Musical Instruments.]
Design and resonant frequency prediction for long T-shaped acoustic resonators
Authors: Li Deyu , Vipperman Jeffrey S.
Published: October 2013

The use of acoustic resonators is an effective way to control cavity resonances in small enclosures. One popular device is the long, T-shaped acoustic resonator which consists of three branches. Two branches (referred to as ‘‘Branch-1’’ and ‘‘Branch-2’’) are co-axial and both have one open end and one closed end, and the third branch (referred to as ‘‘Branch-3’’) is perpendicular to the co-axis and has two open ends. In practical cavity noise control, the optimal position of Branch-3, i.e., the length of Branch-1 or Branch-2 is determined by the mode shape of the controlled cavity mode, and the length of Branch-3 is typically chosen to be as short as possible to minimize the occupied space of the resonator. If the cross-sectional areas are given, the only design parameter is the length of Branch-1 or Branch-2. In this study, three new models are developed to calculate the end corrections for the three branches. The novel theory is also used to design long T-shaped acoustic resonators for control. In addition to the fundamental acoustic resonator mode, higher frequency resonances of the resonator can be used to target a specific cavity mode for control. Several tests are conducted to experimentally evaluate and validate these new models.
Water-column measurements of hydrothermal vent flow and particulate concentration using multibeam sonar
Authors: Jones Christopher D.
Published: October 2013

High-frequency multibeam systems enable water-column studies of fluid flow from deep ocean hydrothermal vent systems. Backscatter from high-temperature particulate-laden vent fluid (black smokers) is used to obtain three-dimensional images of the plume’s temporal and spatial structure. Backscattering intensity may provide a means to remotely estimate plume particulate concentration and turbulent micro-structure created by temperature and density fluctuations in the plume fluid, providing denser sampling in space and time than conventional point measurements. Acoustic Doppler measurements can provide estimates of the entrainment and transport of water, particulate matter, and larvae by hydrothermal systems, which is of interest in physical, chemical, and biological oceanography. Toward the goal of providing an acoustic means of inverting for such oceanographic parameters with a multibeam system, several mechanisms and models of volume scattering from the water column will be discussed. The results from field experiments with a calibrated 200-kHz multibeam system (Simrad SM2000) will be presented, as well as future developments and applications of mutlibeam systems to water-column scattering. [Work supported by NSF.]
Detection and classification of underwater targets by echolocating dolphins
Authors: Au Whitlow
Published: October 2013

Many experiments have been performed with echolocating dolphins to determine their target detection and discrimination capabilities. Target detection experiments have been performed in a naturally noisy environment, with masking noise and with both phantom echoes and masking noise, and in reverberation. The echo energy to rms noise spectral density for the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) at the 75% correct response threshold is approximately 7.5 dB whereas for the beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas) the threshold is approximately 1 dB. The dolphin’s detection threshold in reverberation is approximately 2.5 dB vs 2 dB for the beluga. The difference in performance between species can probably be ascribed to differences in how both species perceived the task. The bottlenose dolphin may be performing a combination detection/discrimination task whereas the beluga may be performing a simple detection task. Echolocating dolphins also have the capability to make fine discriminate of target properties such as wall thickness difference of water-filled cylinders and material differences in metallic plates. The high resolution property of the animal’s echolocation signals and the high dynamic range of its auditory system are important factors in their outstanding discrimination capabilities.
The acoustic effect of cryogenically treating trumpets
Authors: Jones Jesse , Rogers Chris
Published: October 2013

The acoustic effect of cryogenically treating trumpets is investigated. Ten Vincent Bach Stradivarious B♭ trumpets are studied, half of which have been cryogenically treated. The trumpets were played by six players of varying proficiency, with sound samples being recorded directly to disk at a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz. Both the steady-state and initial transient portions of the audio samples are analyzed. When comparing the average power spectra of the treated trumpets to the untreated set, no repeatable, statistically independent differences are observed in the data. Differences observed in player-to-player and trumpet-to-trumpet comparisons overshadow any differences that may have been brought on due to the cryogenic treatment. Qualitatively, players established no clear preference between the treated and untreated trumpets regarding tone and playability, and could not differentiate between the two sets of instruments. All data was collected in a double blind fashion. The treatment itself is a three step process, involving an 8 hour linear cool down period, a 10 hour period of sustained exposure to −195°C (−300°F), and a 20–25 hour period of warming back to room temperature. [Work was completed with the support of Steinway & Sons Pianos and Selmer Musical Instruments.]
Nonlinear acoustic acceleration waves in porous media flow
Authors: Jordan Pedro M.
Published: October 2013

Acoustic acceleration waves are defined as jumps in the first derivatives of the velocity, pressure, or density across a propagating singular surface (or wave front). In this talk, the temporal evolution of the amplitude and the propagation speed of such waves are investigated in the context of finite-amplitude acoustic propagation in inelastic Darcy-type porous media. It is shown that there exists a critical value, α*(>0), of the initial jump amplitude such that the acceleration wave magnitude either goes to zero, as t→∞, or infinity, in finite time, depending on whether the given initial jump amplitude is greater than or less than −α*. In addition, a connection to traveling wave solutions is noted and the linearized case is examined. Finally, the numerical solution of a one-dimensional, nonlinear IBVP involving sinusoidal signaling in a fluid-saturated porous slab is used to illustrate the finite-time transition from an acceleration wave to a shock wave that occurs when the given initial jump amplitude is less than −α*. [Work supported by ONR/NRL funding.]
Effects of refraction on the prediction of bistatic reverberation in range dependent shallow water waveguides
Authors: LePage Kevin D. , Harrison Chris
Published: October 2013

The BiStaR bistatic reverberation model has been benchmarked against analytic formulas for bistatic reverberation in isovelocity range dependent waveguides. Studies conducted using BiStaR to evaluate the effects of introducing refraction into the benchmark scenarios indicate that downward refraction can have a tremendous effect on the time-angle evolution of mono- and bistatic reverberation, especially in shoaling directions. Here recent advances in analytic formulas for propagation and reverberation in refractive range dependent waveguides are exercised to evaluate analytically the predicted changes in RL caused by the different propagation characteristics. The analytic results are compared with the numerical results and conclusions are drawn regarding the propagation regimes and mechanisms that cause the strong deviations from the isovelocity predictions. [Work supported by ONR and SACLANTCEN.]
Comparison of acoustic fields produced by the original and upgraded HM-3 lithotripter
Authors: Zhou Yufeng , Zhu Songlin , Dreyer Thomas , Liebler Marko , Zhong Pei
Published: October 2013

To reduce tissue injury in shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) while maintaining satisfactory stone comminution, an original HM-3 lithotripter was upgraded by a reflector insert to suppress large intraluminal bubble expansion, which is a primary mechanism of vascular injury in SWL. The pressure waveforms produced by the original and upgraded HM-3 lithotripter were measured by using a fiber optical probe hydrophone (FOPH), which was scanned both along and transverse to the lithotripter axis at 1-mm step using a computer-controlled 3-D positioning system. At F2, the pressure waveform produced by the upgraded HM-3 lithotripter at 22 kV has a distinct dual-pulse structure, with a leading shock wave of ∼45 MPa from the reflector insert and a 4-μs delayed second pulse of ∼15 MPa reflected from the uncovered bottom surface of the original HM-3 reflector. The beam sizes of the original and upgraded HM-3 lithotripter are comparable in both axial and lateral directions. The pressure waveforms measured at the reflector aperture will be used as input to the KZK equation to predict the lithotripter shock wave at F2. Furthermore, bubble dynamics predicted by the Gilmore model will be compared with experimental observation by high-speed imaging. [Work supported by NIH.]
Prediction of booming sensation and its difference limen for just noticeable change in frequency
Authors: Shin Sung-Hwan , Ih Jeong-Guon
Published: October 2013

Among many auditory feelings for the car interior noise, the booming sensation is considered the most important nuisance to the passengers. Although there are many origins for the booming noise of vehicles in general, the most important one is the engine boom that consists of tonal components related to fundamental engine rotation and its harmonics including the firing frequency. Because the degree of booming sensation is increased when these tonal components are dominating in car interior noise, it is demanded to extract the aurally relevant tonal components only. Although the pitch extraction model based on the place theory enables to find aurally relevant tonal components, there is a difference between booming sensation and pitch perception according to a frequency change of the tonal component. In this study, a subjective listening test using a tracking method is performed to find the difference limen for just a noticeable change of booming sensation in frequency. By applying the resultant data and also the empirical data by Zwicker, the existing pitch extraction model is modified. This refined model and loudness analysis can be used for predicting the degree of booming sensation. [Work supported by the BK21 project and NRL.]
Enigmatic GPCR Finds a Stimulating Drug
Authors: Harden T. Kendall
Published: October 2013

A small-molecule agonist provides insight into the function and therapeutic potential of the receptor GPR17.
How HIV Reduces Antifungal Immunity
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: October 2013

The receptor NKp30 mediates fungal recognition by natural killer (NK) cells and is reduced in NK cells from HIV patients.
Treatment Failure and Miltefosine Susceptibility in Dermal Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania Subgenus Viannia Species
Authors: Obonaga Ricardo , Fernández Olga Lucía , Valderrama Liliana , Rubiano Luisa Consuelo , Castro Maria del Mar , Barrera Maria Claudia , Gomez Maria Adelaida , Gore Saravia Nancy
Published: October 2013

Treatment failure and parasite drug susceptibility in dermal leishmaniasis caused by
Leishmania
(
Viannia
) species are poorly understood. Prospective evaluation of drug susceptibility of strains isolated from individual patients before drug exposure and at clinical failure allows intrinsic and acquired differences in susceptibility to be discerned and analyzed. To determine whether intrinsic susceptibility or loss of susceptibility to miltefosine contributed to treatment failure, we evaluated the miltefosine susceptibility of intracellular amastigotes and promastigotes of six
Leishmania
(
Viannia
)
braziliensis
and six
Leishmania
(
Viannia
)
panamensis
strains isolated sequentially, at diagnosis and treatment failure, from two children and four adults ≥55 years old with concurrent conditions. Four patients presented only cutaneous lesions, one had mucosal disease, and one had disseminated mucocutaneous disease. Expression of the
Leishmania
drug transporter genes
abca2
,
abca3
,
abcc2
,
abcc3
,
abcg4
,
abcg6
, and
LbMT
was evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR). Intracellular amastigotes (median 50% effective concentration [EC
50
], 10.7 μmol/liter) were more susceptible to miltefosine than promastigotes (median EC
50
, 55.3 μmol/liter) (
P
< 0.0001). Loss of susceptibility at failure, demonstrated by a miltefosine EC
50
of >32 μmol/liter (the upper limit of intracellular amastigote assay), occurred in
L. panamensis
infection in a child and in
L. braziliensis
infection in an adult and was accompanied by decreased expression of the miltefosine transporter LbMT (LbMT/β-tubulin, 0.42- to 0.26-fold [
P
= 0.039] and 0.70- to 0.57-fold [
P
= 0.009], respectively). LbMT gene polymorphisms were not associated with susceptibility phenotype.
Leishmania
ABCA3 transporter expression was inversely correlated with miltefosine susceptibility (
r
= −0.605;
P
= 0.037). Loss of susceptibility is one of multiple factors involved in failure of miltefosine treatment in dermal leishmaniasis.
Dormant Intracellular Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Discriminates among Salmonella Pathogenicity Island 2 Effectors To Persist inside Fibroblasts
Authors: Núñez-Hernández Cristina , Alonso Ana , Pucciarelli M. Graciela , Casadesús Josep , García-del Portillo Francisco
Published: October 2013

Salmonella enterica
uses effector proteins delivered by type III secretion systems (TTSS) to colonize eukaryotic cells. Recent
in vivo
studies have shown that intracellular bacteria activate the TTSS encoded by
Salmonella
pathogenicity island-2 (SPI-2) to restrain growth inside phagocytes. Growth attenuation is also observed
in vivo
in bacteria colonizing nonphagocytic stromal cells of the intestinal lamina propria and in cultured fibroblasts. SPI-2 is required for survival of nongrowing bacteria persisting inside fibroblasts, but its induction mode and the effectors involved remain unknown. Here, we show that nongrowing dormant intracellular bacteria use the two-component system OmpR-EnvZ to induce SPI-2 expression and the PhoP-PhoQ system to regulate the time at which induction takes place, 2 h postentry. Dormant bacteria were shown to discriminate the usage of SPI-2 effectors. Among the effectors tested, SseF, SseG, and SseJ were required for survival, while others, such as SifA and SifB, were not. SifA and SifB dispensability correlated with the inability of intracellular bacteria to secrete these effectors even when overexpressed. Conversely, SseJ overproduction resulted in augmented secretion and exacerbated bacterial growth. Dormant bacteria produced other effectors, such as PipB and PipB2, that, unlike what was reported for epithelial cells, did not to traffic outside the phagosomal compartment. Therefore, permissiveness for secreting only a subset of SPI-2 effectors may be instrumental for dormancy. We propose that the
S. enterica
serovar Typhimurium nonproliferative intracellular lifestyle is sustained by selection of SPI-2 effectors that are produced in tightly defined amounts and delivered to phagosome-confined locations.
Bilateral psoas abscess during pregnancy presenting as an acute abdomen: atypical presentation
Authors: Nigam Aruna , Prakash Anupam , Pathak Puja , Abbey Pooja
Published: October 2013

Nearly half of skeletal tuberculosis patients have spinal tuberculosis, but psoas abscess develops in only 5% of spinal tuberculosis cases. However, bilateral psoas abscess is a rarity. Psoas abscess occurring in pregnancy could be a clinical dilemma and is hardly reported. We report an unusual presentation of bilateral psoas abscess in pregnancy presenting as an acute abdomen and adnexal mass.
The Schrödinger uncertainty relation as a key tool for incorporating statistical thermodynamics into quantum theory
Authors: Golubjeva O.N. , Sukhanov A.D.
Published: October 2013

We use the concept of consistent describing of the holistic stochastic environmental action on the basis of complex wave functions of the arbitrary vacuum and operators of quantum and thermal influence. In this study, we implement the possibility of explicitly incorporating the zeroth law of stochastic thermodynamics in the form of the saturated Schrödinger uncertainty relation into quantum theory. This allows comparatively analyzing the sets of states of arbitrary vacuums, which can be used for the description of thermal equilibrium states.
TECHNOLOGIES FOR LARGE DATA MANAGEMENT IN SCIENTIFIC COMPUTING
Authors: PACE ALBERTO
Published: October 2013

In recent years, intense usage of computing has been the main strategy of investigations in several scientific research projects. The progress in computing technology has opened unprecedented opportunities for systematic collection of experimental data and the associated analysis that were considered impossible only few years ago.

This paper focuses on the strategies in use: it reviews the various components that are necessary for an effective solution that ensures the storage, the long term preservation, and the worldwide distribution of large quantities of data that are necessary in a large scientific research project.

The paper also mentions several examples of data management solutions used in High Energy Physics for the CERN Large Hadron Collider (LHC) experiments in Geneva, Switzerland which generate more than 30,000 terabytes of data every year that need to be preserved, analyzed, and made available to a community of several tenth of thousands scientists worldwide.
How to Choose the Best Pivot Language for Automatic Translation of Low-Resource Languages
Authors: Paul Michael , Finch Andrew , Sumita Eiichrio
Published: October 2013

Recent research on multilingual statistical machine translation focuses on the usage of pivot languages in order to overcome language resource limitations for certain language pairs. Due to the richness of available language resources, English is, in general, the pivot language of choice. However, factors like language relatedness can also effect the choice of the pivot language for a given language pair, especially for Asian languages, where language resources are currently quite limited. In this article, we provide new insights into what factors make a pivot language effective and investigate the impact of these factors on the overall pivot translation performance for translation between 22 Indo-European and Asian languages. Experimental results using state-of-the-art statistical machine translation techniques revealed that the translation quality of 54.8% of the language pairs improved when a non-English pivot language was chosen. Moreover, 81.0% of system performance variations can be explained by a combination of factors such as language family, vocabulary, sentence length, language perplexity, translation model entropy, reordering, monotonicity, and engine performance.
Synthesis and Magnetic Properties of a Superparamagnetic Nanocomposite “Pectin‐Magnetite Nanocomposite”
Authors: Namanga Jude , Foba Josepha , Ndinteh Derek Tantoh , Yufanyi Divine Mbom , Krause Rui Werner Maçedo
Published: October 2013

Magnetic nanocomposites composed of superparamagnetic magnetite nanoparticles in a pectin matrix were synthesized by an in situ coprecipitation method. The pectin matrix acted as a stabilizer and size control host for the magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) ensuring particle size homogeneity. The effects of the different reactant ratios and nanocomposite drying conditions on the magnetic properties were investigated. The nanocomposites were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, and superconducting quantum interference device magnetometer (SQUID). Superparamagnetic magnetite nanoparticles with mean diameters of 9 and 13 nm were obtained, and the freeze‐dried nanocomposites had a saturation magnetization of 54 and 53 emu/g, respectively.
Validation and Clinical Application of a Biopsychosocial Model of Pain Intensity and Functional Disability in Patients with a Pediatric Chronic Pain Condition Referred to a Subspecialty Clinic
Authors: Vetter Thomas R. , McGwin Gerald , Bridgewater Cynthia L. , Madan-Swain Avi , Ascherman Lee I.
Published: October 2013

Background. Pediatric chronic pain is considered to be a multidimensional construct that includes biological, psychological, and social components. Methods. The 99 enrolled study patients (mean age 13.2 years, 71% female, 81% Caucasian) and an accompanying parent completed a series of health-related questionnaires at the time of their initial appointment in a pediatric chronic pain medicine clinic. Results. Significant correlations (, ) were observed between pediatric chronic pain intensity and patient anxiety, patient depression, patient pain coping, parent chronic pain intensity, and parent functional disability. Pediatric chronic pain intensity was significantly associated with patient anxiety (). Significant correlations (, ) were observed between pediatric functional disability and patient chronic pain intensity, patient anxiety, patient depression, patient pain coping, parent chronic pain intensity, parent functional disability, parent anxiety, parent depression, and parent stress. Pediatric functional disability was significantly associated with patient chronic pain intensity (), patient anxiety (), patient pain coping (), and parent functional disability (). Conclusions. These findings provide empirical support of a multidimensional Biobehavioral Model of Pediatric Pain. However, the practical clinical application of the present findings and much of the similar previously published data may be tenuous.
Energy-Balanced Routing for Maximizing Network Lifetime in WirelessHART
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Yan Ao , Ma Tianming
Published: October 2013

WirelessHART is an emerging wireless sensor network protocol. In this paper, a joint graph routing algorithm for maximizing the network lifetime (JRMNL) in WirelessHART is proposed. Node communication load factor is approximately estimated by matrix operations for the first time. Then node communication load, the residual energy, and the link transmission power are integrated as a link cost function that is accurately measured in this algorithm. A node chooses the optimal next hop by comparing the link cost function of all its neighbor nodes, which guarantees the energy balancing of the whole network. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can extend network lifetime by a factor of 2 relative to the maximum residual energy selection algorithm and prolong the network lifetime by a factor of 7 relative to the minimum transmission power routing algorithm, but the average energy consumption per route will increase by 2 dBm compared with the minimum transmission power routing algorithm.
A Global Optimization Algorithm for Generalized Quadratic Programming
Authors: Jiao Hongwei , Chen Yongqiang
Published: October 2013

We present a global optimization algorithm for solving generalized quadratic programming (GQP), that is, nonconvex quadratic programming with nonconvex quadratic constraints. By utilizing a new linearizing technique, the initial nonconvex programming problem (GQP) is reduced to a sequence of relaxation linear programming problems. To improve the computational efficiency of the algorithm, a range reduction technique is employed in the branch and bound procedure. The proposed algorithm is convergent to the global minimum of the (GQP) by means of the subsequent solutions of a series of relaxation linear programming problems. Finally, numerical results show the robustness and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
In Vitro Susceptibility of Candida Species to Four Antifungal Agents Assessed by the Reference Broth Microdilution Method
Authors: Eksi Fahriye , Gayyurhan Efgan Dogan , Balci Iclal
Published: October 2013

This study was performed to determine the distribution of Candida species isolated from the blood cultures of the patients hospitalized in our hospital and to investigate their antifungal susceptibility. Candida strains were identified at species level by using classical methods and API ID 32C (bioMerieux, France) identification kits. The susceptibility of the strains to amphotericin B, fluconazole, voriconazole, and caspofungin was evaluated by using the reference broth microdilution method in document M27‐A3 of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Of the 111 Candida strains isolated, 47.7% were identified as C. albicans and 52.3% as non‐albicans Candida strains. The MIC ranges were 0.03–1 μg/mL for amphotericin B, 0.125–≥64 μg/mL for fluconazole, 0.03–16 μg/mL for voriconazole, and 0.015–0.25 μg/mL for caspofungin. All Candida strains were susceptible to amphotericin B and caspofungin. 10.8% isolates were resistant to fluconazole and 8.1% isolates were dose‐dependent susceptible. While 0.9% isolate was resistant to voriconazole, 0.9% isolate was dose‐dependent susceptible. In our study, C. albicans and C. parapsilosis were the most frequently encountered agents of candidemia and it was detected that voriconazole with a low resistance rate might also be used with confidence in the treatment of infections occurring with these agents, primarily besides amphotericin B and caspofungin.
Modeling of the ORNL PCA Benchmark Using SCALE6.0 Hybrid Deterministic-Stochastic Methodology
Authors: Matijević Mario , Pevec Dubravko , Trontl Krešimir
Published: October 2013

Revised guidelines with the support of computational benchmarks are needed for the regulation of the allowed neutron irradiation to reactor structures during power plant lifetime. Currently, US NRC Regulatory Guide 1.190 is the effective guideline for reactor dosimetry calculations. A well known international shielding database SINBAD contains large selection of models for benchmarking neutron transport methods. In this paper a PCA benchmark has been chosen from SINBAD for qualification of our methodology for pressure vessel neutron fluence calculations, as required by the Regulatory Guide 1.190. The SCALE6.0 code package, developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, was used for modeling of the PCA benchmark. The CSAS6 criticality sequence of the SCALE6.0 code package, which includes KENO-VI Monte Carlo code, as well as MAVRIC/Monaco hybrid shielding sequence, was utilized for calculation of equivalent fission fluxes. The shielding analysis was performed using multigroup shielding library v7_200n47g derived from general purpose ENDF/B-VII.0 library. As a source of response functions for reaction rate calculations with MAVRIC we used international reactor dosimetry libraries (IRDF-2002 and IRDF-90.v2) and appropriate cross-sections from transport library v7_200n47g. The comparison of calculational results and benchmark data showed a good agreement of the calculated and measured equivalent fission fluxes.
Preparation, Characterization, and Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2/ZnO Nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Liqin , Fu Xiujun , Han Yang , Chang E. , Wu Haitao , Wang Haiying , Li Kuiying , Qi Xiaowen
Published: October 2013

Nanoparticles of the TiO2/ZnO composite photocatalysts were prepared via sol‐gel process. The crystalline structure, morphology, thermal stability, and pore structure properties of the composite photocatalysts were characterized by XRD, FE‐SEM, TG‐DTA, and N2 physical adsorption measurements. The photocatalytic activity of the composite catalysts was evaluated by photocatalytic degradation reaction of methyl orange (MO) in aqueous solution. The best preparation parameters for the composite photocatalysts were obtained through systematical experiments. Furthermore, the photocatalytic degradation reaction of aqueous MO solution followed the first‐order reaction kinetics; the relative equation can be described as ln(C0/C) = 0.5689t, and the calculated correlation constant (R2) is 0.9937 for the calibration curve.
Fuzzy Stochastic Vibrations of Double-Beam Complex System as Model Sandwich Beam with Uncertain Parameters
Authors: Mazur-Śniady Krystyna , Misiurek Katarzyna , Szyłko-Bigus Olga , Śniady Paweł
Published: October 2013

The dynamic behavior of a double Euler-Bernoulli beam system with uncertain parameters (fuzzy random variables) under a fuzzy stochastic excitation and axial compression is being considered. The beams are identical and parallel, one is above the other, and they are continuously coupled by a linear two-parameter (Pasternak subsoil) elastic element. This double Euler-Bernoulli beam system can be also treated as a theoretical model of a sandwich beam. The load process is fuzzy random both in space and time. The top beam carries a fuzzy stochastic load. The solution of the problem was found thanks to the fuzzy random dynamic influence function. The aim of the paper is to find the solution for the membership function of the probabilistic characteristics of the response of the structure.
An Efficient Processing of Join Queries for Sensor Networks Using Column-Oriented Databases
Authors: Kim Kyung-Chang
Published: October 2013

Recently, the sensor network area is gaining attention both in the industry and academia. Many applications of sensor network such as vehicle tracking and environmental monitoring require joining sensor data scattered over the network. The main performance criterion for queries in a sensor network is to minimize the battery power consumption in each sensor node. Hence, reducing the communication cost of shipping data among sensor nodes is important since it is the main consumer of battery power. In this paper, we propose a technique for join queries in a sensor network that minimizes communication cost. For storage of sensor data, we use a column-oriented database that stores data on disk (or in memory) column-by-column unlike traditional database that store data in rows. The justification for using a column-oriented database technique is not to ship those data columns that do not participate in the actual join. We compare our algorithm with existing join algorithms for sensor networks that are based on traditional row-oriented databases. The performance analysis show that our proposed algorithm based on column-oriented databases outperforms existing algorithms in processing binary equi-join (BEJ) queries for sensor networks.
Dynamic Resonance of Curved Panels in Adverse Hygrothermal Environment
Authors: Rath Manoj Kumar
Published: October 2013

The present paper deals with the dynamic resonance of composite curved panels subjected to periodic dynamic loadings. The effects of various parameters of four-sided clamped composite curved panels at elevated temperatures and moisture concentrations on the principal instability regions are investigated by finite element method which is used to study the antisymmetric angle-ply square plates. The results show that instability of composite plates occurs for different parameters in adverse hygrothermal environment. The experimental and numerical investigation is also carried out for four-sided clamped boundary condition for vibration and buckling of curved panels in hygrothermal environment.
Seasonality, Interannual Variability, and Linear Tendency of Wind Speeds in the Northeast Brazil from 1986 to 2011
Authors: Torres Silva dos Santos Alexandre , Santos e Silva Cláudio Moisés
Published: October 2013

Wind speed analyses are currently being employed in several fields, especially in wind power generation. In this study, we used wind speed data from records of Universal Fuess anemographs at an altitude of 10 m from 47 weather stations of the National Institute of Meteorology (Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia‐INMET) from January 1986 to December 2011. The objective of the study was to investigate climatological aspects and wind speed trends. To this end, the following methods were used: filling of missing data, descriptive statistical calculations, boxplots, cluster analysis, and trend analysis using the Mann‐Kendall statistical method. The seasonal variability of the average wind speeds of each group presented higher values for winter and spring and lower values in the summer and fall. The groups G1, G2, and G5 showed higher annual averages in the interannual variability of wind speeds. These observed peaks were attributed to the El Niño and La Niña events, which change the behavior of global wind circulation and influence wind speeds over the region. Trend analysis showed more significant negative values for the G3, G4, and G5 groups for all seasons of the year and in the annual average for the period under study.
A Global Convergence of LS-CD Hybrid Conjugate Gradient Method
Authors: Yang Xiangfei , Luo Zhijun , Dai Xiaoyu
Published: October 2013

Conjugate gradient method is one of the most effective algorithms for solving unconstrained optimization problem. In this paper, a modified conjugate gradient method is presented and analyzed which is a hybridization of known LS and CD conjugate gradient algorithms. Under some mild conditions, the Wolfe-type line search can guarantee the global convergence of the LS-CD method. The numerical results show that the algorithm is efficient.
Fulminant Liver Failure Associated with Abdominal Crush Injury in an Eleven-Year Old: A Case Report
Authors: Gordon Erin , Kamath Sameer
Published: October 2013

An 11-year-old obese male was involved in an all-terrain vehicle rollover accident. He had elevated transaminase levels along with a lactic acidosis. The imaging studies did not reveal any major intra-abdominal or thoracic injuries. The physical exam was unremarkable. The patient had an unremarkable PICU course and was transferred to the floor the next day. Within 24 hours of his transfer, he was noted to have interval worsening in liver function tests. He developed fulminant liver failure (FLF), renal failure, and encephalopathy. An ultrasound of the liver revealed increased echogenicity in the right lobe with focal sparing. Patient was listed for transplant. Investigations into any underlying medical cause of FLF were negative. Liver failure was presumed to be related to ischemia/reperfusion injury of the liver. The renal failure was due to rhabdomyolysis and was supported with renal replacement therapy. Patient received supportive care for FLF and was noted to have significant recovery of liver and renal function with time. He was discharged home after a 3-week hospitalization. Patients with crush abdominal injuries and elevated transaminase levels without evidence of parenchymal liver disruption may need to be closely monitored for liver failure related to ischemia reperfusion.
Lipoprotein(a): A Promising Marker for Residual Cardiovascular Risk Assessment
Authors: Cai Anping , Li Liwen , Zhang Ying , Mo Yujin , Mai Weiyi , Zhou Yingling
Published: October 2013

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are still the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, although optimal medical therapy has been prescribed for primary and secondary preventions. Residual cardiovascular risk for some population groups is still considerably high although target low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) level has been achieved. During the past few decades, compelling pieces of evidence from clinical trials and meta-analyses consistently illustrate that lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis and CVD due to its proatherogenic and prothrombotic features. However, the lack of effective medication for Lp(a) reduction significantly hampers randomized, prospective, and controlled trials conducting. Based on previous findings, for patients with LDL-C in normal range, Lp(a) may be a useful marker for identifying and evaluating the residual cardiovascular risk, and aggressively lowering LDL-C level than current guidelines’ recommendation may be reasonable for patients with particularly high Lp(a) level.
Dynamic Modeling and Control of Electromechanical Coupling for Mechanical Elastic Energy Storage System
Authors: Yu Yang , Mi Zengqiang
Published: October 2013

The structural scheme of mechanical elastic energy storage (MEES) system served by permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) and bidirectional converters is designed. The aim of the research is to model and control the complex electromechanical system. The mechanical device of the complex system is considered as a node in generalized coordinate system, the terse nonlinear dynamic model of electromechanical coupling for the electromechanical system is constructed through Lagrange-Maxwell energy method, and the detailed deduction of the mathematical model is presented in the paper. The theory of direct feedback linearization (DFL) is applied to decouple the nonlinear dynamic model and convert the developed model from nonlinear to linear. The optimal control theory is utilized to accomplish speed tracking control for the linearized system. The simulation results in three different cases show that the proposed nonlinear dynamic model of MEES system is correct; the designed algorithm has a better control performance in contrast with the conventional PI control.
Efficacy of Onabotulinum Toxin A (Botox) versus Abobotulinum Toxin A (Dysport) Using a Conversion Factor (1 : 2.5) in Treatment of Primary Palmar Hyperhidrosis
Authors: El Kahky Hanan Mohamed , Diab Heba Mahmoud , Aly Dalia Gamal , Farag Nehal Magdi
Published: October 2013

Background. Two preparations of botulinum A toxin (BTX-A) are commercially available for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis (PPH): Botox (Allergan; 100 U/vial) and Dysport (Ipsen Limited; 500 U/vial), which are not bioequivalent. Results regarding an appropriate conversion factor between them are controversial.Objectives. This paper aims to compare the efficacy of Botox and Dysport in PPH using a conversion factor of 1 : 2.5.Methods. Eight patients with severe PPH received intradermal injections of Botox in one palm and Dysport in the other in the same session. Clinical assessment was performed at baseline and posttreatment for 8 months using Minor’s iodine starch test, Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) test.Results. At 3 weeks, a significant decrease in sweating for both preparations was noted which was more pronounced with Dysport compared with Botox. At 8 weeks, this difference turned insignificant. Continued evaluation showed similar improvement in both palms with a nonsignificant difference. Patients with longer disease duration were more liable to relapse.Conclusion. The efficacy and safety of Botox and Dysport injections were similar using a conversion factor of 1 : 2.5. There was a trend towards a more rapid action after Dysport treatment but without significant importance.