bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualization of Ionic-Liquid/Solid Interfaces by Frequency Modulation Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Negami Masahiro , Ichii Takashi , Murase Kuniaki , Sugimura Hiroyuki
Published: March 2013

Solvation structures on liquid/solid interfaces are essential for understanding the mechanisms of various electrochemical reactions. Here, we demonstrate structural analysis on interfaces of ionic liquids (ILs) and electrodes by frequency modulation atomic force microscopy (FM-AFM). A quartz-based force sensor was used instead of a Si cantilever in order to achieve highly-stable and highly-sensitive measurement in ILs. Two-dimensional (2D) force mapping was performed with control of the electrode potential. The potential-dependent solvation structures on the interface were investigated and structural change of the solvation layers was successfully imaged.
Corrosion of Nickel-Chromium-Molybdenum Based Alloy in Chloride Melts Containing Transition Metal Ions
Authors: Abramov Alexander V. , Karpov Vyacheslav V. , Polovov Ilya B. , Vinogradov Denis A. , Volkovich Vladimir A. , Rebrin Oleg I.
Published: March 2013

The corrosion of KhN65MVU alloy was studied in chloride melts contained vanadium, zirconium, niobium and uranium ions and the rates of corrosion were determined for different electrolytes and temperatures. It was shown that interaction between the studied alloy and chloride melts containing transition metal ions occurs due to the oxidation of more electronegative components of the alloy by different cations from the molten salt environment. The process of oxidation is intensified at the grain boundaries where the microgalvanic pairs are formed as a result of excessive phase segregation. Anodic elements of the galvanic pairs are represented by depletion in molybdenum zones contacted with the excessive phases. It was also found that contacting KhN65MVU with niobium-containing melts results in the formation of diffusion coating on the substrate. This coating can protect the material from further oxidation by molten chloride electrolyte.
Oxygen Reduction Reaction at LaNiO3 Supported by Au Ring in Li/Na Eutectic Carbonate with La2O3
Authors: Matsuzawa Koichi , Esaki Yuichi , Takeuchi Yuuki , Watanabe Kohei , Kohno Yuji , Ota Ken-ichiro , Mitsushima Shigenori
Published: March 2013

In order to improve the performance of molten carbonates fuel cells, we have investigated the catalytic activity of LaNiO3 and NiO for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on a meniscus electrode in Li/Na eutectic carbonates with La oxide. The apparent current density (i0) of LaNiO3 was slightly smaller than that of NiO. The partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) and O2 (pO2) dependences of ORR were obtained on LaNiO3 and NiO, and the reaction mechanism of ORR on LaNiO3 was almost same to that on NiO at 923 K.
(Keynote) Exploiting the Versatility of Ionic Liquids and Polymeric Ionic Liquids in Chromatographic Separations and Microextractions
Authors: Ho T. D. , Joshi M. D. , Yu H. , Twu P. , Li T. , Cole W. , Anderson Jared L.
Published: March 2013

Ionic liquids (ILs) are an attractive class of non-molecular solvents whose versatility allows them to be incorporated into various chromatographic and microextraction methods.
(Keynote) Separation of Flue Gas Components by SILP (Supported Ionic Liquid-Phase) Absorbers
Authors: Thomassen Peter L. , Kunov-Kruse Andreas Jonas , Mossin Susanne L. , Kolding Helene , Kegnæs Søren , Riisager Anders , Fehrmann Rasmus
Published: March 2013

Reversible absorption of the flue gas components CO2, NO, NO2 and SO2 has been tested for different ionic liquids (ILs) at different temperatures and flue gas compositions where porous, high surface area carriers have been applied as supports for the ionic liquids to obtain Supported Ionic Liquid-Phase (SILP) absorber materials. The use of solid SILP absorbers with selected ILs were found to significantly improve the absorption capacity and sorption dynamics at low flue gas concentration, thus making the applicability of ILs viable in technical, continuous flow processes for flue gas cleaning. The results show that CO2, NO and SO2 can be reversible and selective absorbed using different ILs and that Supported Ionic Liquid-Phase (SILP) absorbers are promising materials for industrial flue gas cleaning. Absorption/desorption dynamics can be tuned by temperature, pressure and gas concentration.
Decomposition of CO2 Gas in CaCl2-CaO and LiCl-Li2O Molten Salts
Authors: Suzuki Ryosuke O. , Otake Koya , Uchiyama Takuya , Kinoshita Hiroshi , Sakaguchi Norihito , Kikuchi Tatsuya
Published: March 2013

The electrochemical decomposition of CO2 gas to form carbon and oxygen gas was studied in CaCl2-CaO and LiCl-Li2O molten salts. A constant voltage was applied at 1173K and 923K, respectively. This process consists of (1)electrochemical reduction of oxide (formation of reductant), (2)thermal reduction of CO2 gas by reaction with the metal dissolved in the molten salt, and (3)ZrO2 anodic electrode worked as an oxygen ions conductor to remove oxygen ions from the molten salt. When 9.7 %CO2-Ar mixed gas was blown into CaCl2-CaO and LiCl-Li2O molten salts, the current efficiency was evaluated to be 78.5 % and 89.7 %, respectively, judged by the exhaust gas analysis and the supplied charge. After electrolysis, the aggregations of carbon nano-tubes and amorphous carbon particles were observed by transmission electron microscope.
Extraction of Rare Earth Metals from Nd-based Scrap by Electrolysis from Molten Salts
Authors: Martinez Ana Maria , Kjos Ole , Skybakmoen Egil , Solheim Asbjørn , Haarberg Geir Martin
Published: March 2013

The possibilities of recovery of rare earth metals and alloys from Nd-based scrap by electrolysis from high temperature molten salts were investigated. The realization of such a process will eliminate the oxide or halide conversion steps, leading to a more effective and environmental process, as many hydrometallurgical steps are avoided. The NdFeB compound (which could be scrap from the magnet production or demagnetized spent magnet) is placed in the anode compartment from where the rare earth elements present in the material (Nd, Dy, Pr) will be anodically dissolved in the form of ions, which will be discharged at the cathode as metals and/or magnetic alloys. Different electrolyte compositions and temperatures are tested and the feasibility, kinetics, and efficiency of the process are evaluated.
Development of Recycling Process for Rare Earth Magnets by Electrodeposition Using Ionic Liquids Media
Authors: Ishii Mai , Matsumiya Masahiko , Kawakami Satoshi
Published: March 2013

Physical and electrochemical properties of choline-based ionic liquids were investigated in this research. The result showed that the electrical conductivity was dependent on the density of ionic liquids. In addition, it was revealed that RE metallic species affected for the ionic conductive mechanism. Furthermore, the recycling process of RE metals from Nd-Fe-B permanent magnets by electrodeposition using ionic liquids was developed. In this study, VCM was used as the starting materials and each treatment of recycling processes, which consisted of the following processes, i.e., demagnetization, chemical etching, dissolution in amide-acid, synthesis of metallic-salts and two-stage electrodeposition, has been applied to the practical wastes. The electrodeposits obtained in electrodeposition(I) and (II) using choline-based ionic liquids were examined by SEM/EDX and XPS. The results proved that iron group and rare earth metals can be recovered separately by electrodeposition(I) and (II), respectively.
Electrochemical Formation of Tb-Ni Alloys in a Molten LiCl-KCl-TbCl3 System
Authors: Konishi Hirokazu , Mizuma Kenta , Ono Hideki , Takeuchi Eiichi , Nohira Toshiyuki , Oishi Tetsuo
Published: March 2013

The electrochemical formation of Tb-Ni alloys was investigated in a molten LiCl-KCl-TbCl3(0.50 mol% added) at 723 K. Open-circuit potentiometry was conducted using a Ni electrode after electrodepositing Tb metal at 0.20 V (vs. Li+ / Li) for 300 s. There were four potential plateaus at (a) 0.66 V, (b) 0.80 V, (c) 0.95 V and (d) 1.56 V, respectively. Alloy samples were prepared by potentiostatic electrolysis at 0.60 V and 0.70 V at 723 K. The alloy phase was identified as only TbNi2. Anodic dissolution of Tb from the formed TbNi2 was conducted at 0.90 V, 1.20 V and 1.60 V, respectively. In the sample obtained at 0.90 V for 3 h, the existence of TbNi3 was identified by the XRD. Phase of the sample obtained at 1.20 V for 3 h was TbNi5. The sample obtained at 1.60 V for 3 h was Ni.
Ionic Liquid-based Solvents for Natural Fiber Welding
Authors: Haverhals Luke M. , Foley Matthew P , Brown Eva Kathryn , Nevin Laura , Fox Douglas , De Long Hugh , Trulove Paul C.
Published: March 2013

Certain ionic liquids (ILs) are known to be efficient solvents for biopolymers. That said, solvent efficacy is strongly impacted by the presence of both adventitious as well as other molecular components that may be added deliberately. For example, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate often contains water and acetic acid (polar protic) impurities (by-products of IL synthesis) that can have significant effects upon the dissolution of biopolymers. Additionally, ILs can be mixed with solvents such as acetonitrile (polar aprotic) that also impact the dissolution process. Data are presented that explore the effect of IL-based solvent composition on fiber welding: the controlled, partial dissolution of fibrous materials to create composite materials. Results suggest that IL-based solvents can be modified for specific outcomes. Additionally, the fiber welding processes and material analysis techniques utilized are themselves useful to quantify solvent efficacy.
Formation of Surface Structures on Biopolymer Substrates Through the Inkjet Printing of Ionic Liquids
Authors: Haverhals Luke M. , Brown Eva Kathryn , Foley Matthew P , De Long Hugh , Trulove Paul C.
Published: March 2013

Ionic liquids (ILs) represent a class of printable material for use in the inkjet technique. Additionally, some ILs are effective solvents for biopolymers (i.e., cellulose and silk). The combination of the ILs ability to solvate biopolymers and the highly controllable delivery of liquids utilized in inkjet printing technology provide a means to pattern substrates and build structures. In this report, the delivery of IL-based solvents to cellulosic papers by inkjet printing is demonstrated. In particular, imaging data that characterize morphological alterations to cellulosic paper substrates are discussed. Results suggest that printed materials with unique properties are possible for a wide range of applications.
Synthesis of Long Chain Brønsted Acidic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Reichert William Matthew , Mirjafari Arsalan , Goode Taylor , Williams Nathan , La Maelynn , Ho Vivian , Yoder Matthew , Davis James H.
Published: March 2013

With the depletion of petroleum, a new source of feedstock chemicals for polymers is needed. The new source should be a renewable source to avoid future depletion and environmental impact. A potential source of new feedstock chemicals is chitin. The use of ionic liquids for the dissolution of chitin has enabled new processing methods for this biopolymer. Recent results demonstrate that chitin can be depolymerizes in ionic liquid. The products of this depolymerization are N-acetylglucosamine and a furfural derivative. This research investigates the use of ionic liquids and various acid catalysts for the depolymerization of chitin into its monomer units. This research evaluates the effects of temperature, the nature of the catalyst, and solvent effects on the depolymerization of chitin.
Ionic Liquid Facilitated Introduction of Functional Materials into Biopolymer Polymer Substrates
Authors: Haverhals Luke M. , Reichert William Matthew , Nazare Shonali , Zammarano Mauro , Gilman Jeffrey W. , De Long Hugh , Trulove Paul C.
Published: March 2013

In addition to being efficient solvents for biopolymers, several ionic liquids (ILs) have also been to shown to be good solvents for synthetic polymers such as m-aramids, i.e., Nomex ® (1). In this report, m-aramid/cotton composites are created by the partial dissolution of fibrous materials. Composite materials are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and flammability testing. Results suggest that the ionic liquid facilitated processes demonstrated are potentially powerful methods to enhancing the flammability characteristics of biopolymers without the denaturation of important native micro and meso structures.
Intercalation Chemistry of Ionic Liquids
Authors: Sutto Thomas Edward , Duncan Teresa Tua
Published: March 2013

The use of ionic liquids as electrolytes for the intercalation of TiS2 by Li+ and Mg++ has been studied using a short chain and long chain substituted imidazolium based ionic liquid: 1,2-dimethyl-3-n-propylimidazolium and 1,2-dimethyl-3-n-ocylimidazolium, both paired with the bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide anion. Results indicate co-intercalation of the shorter chain ionic liquid with the Li+ cation, while intercalation into TiS2 was not observed for the longer chain ionic liquid. For the longer chain system, intercalation of TiS2 by both Li+ and Mg++ is observed. Intercalation behavior is characterized by electrochemical and x-ray powder diffraction studies of the intercalates. Charge/discharge efficiencies for the shorter chain ionic liquid were typically below 50%, likely due to co-intercalation of the ionic liquid itself. Charge/discharge experiments of Li+ and Mg++ intercalation into TiS2 using the longer chain ionic liquid resulted in efficiencies over 90%.
Molten Salts as a Promising Medium for the Synthesis of Highly Active Catalytic Coatings
Authors: Dubrovskiy Anton R. , Kuznetsov Sergey A.
Published: March 2013

The joint electroreduction of CO32- and MoO42- ions on a molybdenum cathode in a NaCl-KCl-Li2CO3-Na2MoO4 melt was studied by cyclic voltammetry. The electrochemical synthesis of Mo2C on molybdenum and graphite substrates has been performed. In all cases Mo2C coatings with the hexagonal lattice were obtained. The molybdenum carbide coatings on a molybdenum substrate (Mo2C/Mo) show catalytic activity in the water gas shift (WGS) reaction at least three orders of magnitude higher than that of the bulk Mo2C phase. It was found that the H2S does not affect on the activity, stability, and selectivity of the catalyst.
Synthesis of Refractory Metal Carbide Nanocoatings on Carbon Fibers and Nanoneedles of Silicon in Molten Salts
Authors: Dolmatov Vladimir S. , Kuznetsov Sergey A.
Published: March 2013

Tantalum and niobium carbide coatings on the surface of carbon fibers were produced by electroless transfer of refractory metal in molten salts containing compounds of tantalum and niobium. Nanoneedles of silicon were obtained by potentiostatic electrolysis which accompanied by reaction of disproportionation.
Inflammation and Immunity in Radiation Damage to the Gut Mucosa
Authors: François Agnès , Milliat Fabien , Guipaud Olivier , Benderitter Marc
Published: March 2013

Erythema was observed on the skin of the first patients treated with radiation therapy. It is in particular to reduce this erythema, one feature of tissue inflammation, that prescribed dose to the tumor site started to be fractionated. It is now well known that radiation exposure of normal tissues generates a sustained and apparently uncontrolled inflammatory process. Radiation-induced inflammation is always observed, often described, sometimes partly explained, but still today far from being completely understood. The thing with the gut and especially the gut mucosa is that it is at the frontier between the external milieu and the organism, is in contact with a plethora of commensal and foreign antigens, possesses a dense-associated lymphoid tissue, and is particularly radiation sensitive because of a high mucosal turnover rate. All these characteristics make the gut mucosa a strong responsive organ in terms of radiation-induced immunoinflammation. This paper will focus on what has been observed in the normal gut and what remains to be done concerning the immunoinflammatory response following localized radiation exposure.
Software Clone Detection and Refactoring
Authors: Arcelli Fontana Francesca , Zanoni Marco , Ranchetti Andrea , Ranchetti Davide
Published: March 2013

Several studies have been proposed in the literature on software clones from different points of view and covering many correlated features and areas, which are particularly relevant to software maintenance and evolution. In this paper, we describe our experience on clone detection through three different tools and investigate the impact of clone refactoring on different software quality metrics.
Immunohistochemical Localization ofAT1a,AT1b, andAT2Angiotensin II Receptor Subtypes in the Rat Adrenal, Pituitary, and Brain with a Perspective Commentary
Authors: Premer Courtney , Lamondin Courtney , Mitzey Ann , Speth Robert C. , Brownfield Mark S.
Published: March 2013

Angiotensin II increases blood pressure and stimulates thirst and sodium appetite in the brain. It also stimulates secretion of aldosterone from the adrenal zona glomerulosa and epinephrine from the adrenal medulla. The rat has 3 subtypes of angiotensin II receptors:AT1a,AT1b, and AT2. mRNAs for all three subtypes occur in the adrenal and brain. To immunohistochemically differentiate these receptor subtypes, rabbits were immunized with C-terminal fragments of these subtypes to generate receptor subtype-specific antibodies. Immunofluorescence revealedAT1aand AT2receptors in adrenal zona glomerulosa and medulla.AT1bimmunofluorescence was present in the zona glomerulosa, but not the medulla. Ultrastructural immunogold labeling for theAT1areceptor in glomerulosa and medullary cells localized it to plasma membrane, endocytic vesicles, multivesicular bodies, and the nucleus.AT1band AT2, but notAT1a, immunofluorescence was observed in the anterior pituitary. Stellate cells wereAT1bpositive while ovoid cells were AT2positive. In the brain, neurons wereAT1a,AT1b, and AT2positive, but glia was onlyAT1bpositive. Highest levels ofAT1a,AT1b, and AT2receptor immunofluorescence were in the subfornical organ, median eminence, area postrema, paraventricular nucleus, and solitary tract nucleus. These studies complement those employing different techniques to characterize Ang II receptors.
A Study on Iterative Algorithm for Stochastic Distribution Free Inventory Models
Authors: Lin Jennifer
Published: March 2013

We studied the iterative algorithm in Tung et al. (2010) to find out that their assertion is questionable. We derived two new relations between safe factor and order quantity so that we can execute the iterative algorithm proposed by Wu and Ouyang (2001). We have proved that three generated sequences indeed converge to provide a theoretical validation for their iterative procedure.
Electroacupuncture Reduces Carrageenan- and CFA-Induced Inflammatory Pain Accompanied by Changing the Expression of Nav1.7 and Nav1.8, rather than Nav1.9, in Mice Dorsal Root Ganglia
Authors: Huang Chun-Ping , Chen Hsiang-Ni , Su Hong-Lin , Hsieh Ching-Liang , Chen Wei-Hsin , Lai Zhen-Rung , Lin Yi-Wen
Published: March 2013

Several voltage-gated sodium channels (Navs) from nociceptive nerve fibers have been identified as important effectors in pain signaling. The objective of this study is to investigate the electroacupuncture (EA) analgesia mechanism by changing the expression of Navs in mice dorsal root ganglia (DRG). We injected carrageenan and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the mice plantar surface of the hind paw to induce inflammation and examined the antinociception effect of EA at the Zusanli (ST36) acupoint at 2 Hz low frequency. Mechanical hyperalgesia was evaluated by using electronic von Frey filaments, and thermal hyperalgesia was assessed using Hargreaves' test. Furthermore, we observed the expression and quality of Navs in DRG neurons. Our results showed that EA reduced mechanical and thermal pain in inflammatory animal model. The expression of Nav1.7 and Nav1.8 was increased after 4 days of carrageenan- and CFA-elicited inflammatory pain and further attenuated by 2 Hz EA stimulation. The attenuation cannot be observed in Nav1.9 sodium channels. We demonstrated that EA at Zusanli (ST36) acupoint at 2 Hz low-frequency stimulation attenuated inflammatory pain accompanied by decreasing the expression of Nav1.7 and 1.8, rather than Nav1.9, sodium channels in peripheral DRG neurons.
Optimal Labeling Dose, Labeling Time, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Detection Limits of Ultrasmall Superparamagnetic Iron-Oxide Nanoparticle Labeled Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Mathiasen Anders Bruun , Hansen Louise , Friis Tina , Thomsen Carsten , Bhakoo Kishore , Kastrup Jens
Published: March 2013

Background.Regenerative therapy is an emerging treatment modality. To determine migration and retention of implanted cells, it is crucial to develop noninvasive tracking methods. The aim was to determineex vivomagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detection limits of ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron-oxide (USPIO) labeled mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs).Materials and Methods.248 gel-phantoms were constructed and scanned on a 1.5T MRI-scanner. Phantoms contained human MSCs preincubated with USPIO nanoparticles for 2, 6, or 21 hours using 5 or 10 μg USPIO/105MSCs. In addition, porcine hearts were scanned after injection of USPIO labeled MSCs.Results.Using 21 h incubation time and 10 μg USPIO/105MSCs, labeled cells were clearly separated from unlabeled cells on MRI using 250.000 (P<0.001), 500.000 (P=0.007), and 1.000.000 MSCs (P=0.008). At lower incubation times and doses, neither labeled nor unlabeled cells could be separated. In porcine hearts labeled, but not unlabeled, MSCs were identified on MRI.Conclusions.As few as 250.000 MSCs can be detected on MRI using 21 h incubation time and 10 μg USPIO/105MSCs. At lower incubation times and doses, several million cells are needed for MRI detection. USPIO labeled cells can be visualized by MRI in porcine myocardial tissue.
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 Deficiency Aggravates Glucose Intolerance via Impairment of Islet Microvascular Density in Mice with High-Fat Diet
Authors: Yuan Li , Wang Ying , Lu Chunli , Li Xiaoya
Published: March 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on glucose homeostasis and islet function in mice. Male wildtype (WT) and ACE2 knockout (ACE2 KO) mice were divided into chow diet group and long-term high-fat diet (HFD) group. After 16 weeks of feeding, the islet function of the animals was evaluated by intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) and intraperitoneal insulin releasing test (IPIRT). The pancreas was immunohistochemically stained to analyze the relative content of insulin (IRC), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and microvessel density (MVD) in islets. There was no difference of body weight, area under curve of glucose (AUCG), area under curve of insulin from 0 to 5 min (AUGI0–5), MVD, and RVC (relative content of VEGF) between WT and ACE2 KO mice with regular chow diet. Under the condition of long-term HFD, the AUCG of ACE2 KO mice was increased obviously in comparison with the WT mice, with decreased IRC, MVD, AUGI0–5, AUCI0–30, and RVC (allP<0.05). In conclusion, these results show that ACE2 deficiency deteriorates islet function of mice with long-term HFD via impairment of islet microvasculature.
Therapeutic Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Patel Devang M. , Shah Jainy , Srivastava Anand S.
Published: March 2013

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are stromal cells that have the ability to self-renew and also exhibit multilineage differentiation into both mesenchymal and nonmesenchymal lineages. The intrinsic properties of these cells make them an attractive candidate for clinical applications. MSCs are of keen interest because they can be isolated from a small aspirate of bone marrow or adipose tissues and can be easily expandedin vitro. Moreover, their ability to modulate immune responses makes them an even more attractive candidate for regenerative medicine as allogeneic transplant of these cells is feasible without a substantial risk of immune rejection. MSCs secrete various immunomodulatory molecules which provide a regenerative microenvironment for a variety of injured tissues or organ to limit the damage and to increase self-regulated tissue regeneration. Autologous/allogeneic MSCs delivered via the bloodstream augment the titers of MSCs that are drawn to sites of tissue injury and can accelerate the tissue repair process. MSCs are currently being tested for their potential use in cell and gene therapy for a number of human debilitating diseases and genetic disorders. This paper summarizes the current clinical and nonclinical data for the use of MSCs in tissue repair and potential therapeutic role in various diseases.
The Role of MicroRNAs in Cancer Susceptibility
Authors: Iuliano Rodolfo , Vismara Marco Flavio Michele , Dattilo Vincenzo , Trapasso Francesco , Baudi Francesco , Perrotti Nicola
Published: March 2013

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are germline variations interspersed in the human genome. These subtle changes of DNA sequence can influence the susceptibility to various pathologies including cancer. The functional meaning of SNPs is not always clear, being, the majority of them, localized in noncoding regions. The discovery of microRNAs, tiny noncoding RNAs able to bind the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of target genes and to consequently downregulate their expression, has provided a functional explanation of how some SNPs positioned in noncoding regions contribute to cancer susceptibility. In this paper we summarize the current knowledge of the effect on cancer susceptibility of SNPs included in regions related with miRNA-dependent pathways. Hereditary cancer comes up from mutations that occur in high-penetrant predisposing tumor genes. However, a considerable part of inherited cancers arises from multiple low-penetrant predisposing gene variants that influence the behavior of cancer insurgence. Despite the established significance of such polymorphic variants in cancer predisposition, sometimes their functional role remains unknown. The discovery of a new group of genes called microRNAs (miRNAs) opened an avenue for the functional interpretation of polymorphisms involved in cancer predisposition.
A Novel Power System Reliability Predicting Model Based on PCA and RVM
Authors: Zheng Yuping , Sun Guoqiang , Wei Zhinong , Zhao Feifei , Sun Yonghui
Published: March 2013

The power system reliability is an important index to evaluate the ability of power supply. According to the characteristics of the practical grid operation, this paper trains and sets up power grid reliability predicting model, based on relevance vector machine, taking the load supplying capacity of power grid and natural calamities as input variables, and the outage time of power grid failure affecting the reliability of the power supply as output variables. In the modeling process, through principal component analysis of the training sample set of relevance vector machine, the input factor number of sample is improved, the input number of network is reduced, the network structure is simplified, and the predicting accuracy is increased. Simulation results are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, which show that it provides a new way for power system reliability predicting.
Screening for Precancerous Lesions of Upper Gastrointestinal Tract: From the Endoscopists' Viewpoint
Authors: Chung Chen-Shuan , Wang Hsiu-Po
Published: March 2013

Upper gastrointestinal tract cancers are one of the most important leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Diagnosis at late stages always brings about poor outcome of these malignancies. The early detection of precancerous or early cancerous lesions of gastrointestinal tract is therefore of utmost importance to improve the overall outcome and maintain a good quality of life of patients. The desire of endoscopists to visualize the invisibles under conventional white-light endoscopy has accelerated the advancements in endoscopy technologies. Nowadays, image-enhanced endoscopy which utilizes optical- or dye-based contrasting techniques has been widely applied in endoscopic screening program of gastrointestinal tract malignancies. These contrasting endoscopic technologies not only improve the visualization of early foci missed by conventional endoscopy, but also gain the insight of histopathology and tumor invasiveness, that is so-called optical biopsy. Here, we will review the application of advanced endoscopy technique in screening program of upper gastrointestinal tract cancers.
Some Inclusion Relations Associated with Generalized Fractional Differintegral Operator
Authors: Soni Amit , Kant Shashi
Published: March 2013

A generalized fractional differintegral operator is used to define some
new subclasses of analytic functions in the open unit disk . For each of these new function
classes, several inclusion relationships are established.
Nonsmooth Dynamic Behaviors Inherited from an Ecohydrological Model: Mutation, Bifurcation, and Chaos
Authors: Lin Mu , Tian Fuqiang , Hu Heping , Liu Dengfeng
Published: March 2013

The existence of nontrivial dynamic behaviors in a hydrological system is intensively discussed in the literature. However, most of the work has been done from the nonlinear data analysis perspective, with only a few exceptions, due to the mathematical difficulties for theoretical analysis. In this study, a simple but comprehensive enough ecohydrological model with the pulsed atmospheric forcing was developed from the process analysis perspective. The model was then utilized to analyze the non-trivial dynamic behaviors in a coupled ecohydrological system qualitatively and numerically. Our results confirm the existence of multiple stationary states discussed by many researchers. Furthermore, parameter bifurcation was studied and the phenomenon of mutation is found to be rather common. Also, the chaotic characteristic of the system state is obtained under some specific parameters. Parts of these behaviors were seldom reported through the deterministic dynamic analysis done previously.
Polyphenols Isolated from Propolis Augment TRAIL-Induced Apoptosis in Cancer Cells
Authors: Szliszka Ewelina , Krol Wojciech
Published: March 2013

Epidemiological data support the concept that phenols and polyphenols in diet are safe and nontoxic, and have long-lasting beneficial effects on human health. The potential target for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) research has been on the discovery of natural compounds that can be used in the prevention and treatment of cancer. Propolis is one of the richest sources of plant phenolics (flavonoids and phenolic acids). The ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) and its polyphenols possess immunomodulatory, chemopreventive, and antitumor effects. Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a  naturally occurring anticancer agent that preferentially induces apoptosis in cancer cells and is not toxic to normal cells. Endogenous TRAIL plays a significant role in immunosurveillance and defense against cancer cells. However, as more tumor cells are reported to be resistant to TRAIL-mediated death, it is important to develop new strategies to overcome this resistance. EEP and polyphenols isolated from propolis have been shown to sensitize cancer cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis. In this paper we demonstrate for the first time the crucial role of the main phenolics isolated from propolis in enhancing TRAIL-mediated death in tumor cells for cancer chemoprevention.
Bilevel Multiobjective Programming Applied to Water Resources Allocation
Authors: Fang Shiqi , Guo Ping , Li Mo , Zhang Liudong
Published: March 2013

Water allocation is an essential programming to support the sustainable development of Wuwei Basin, Gansu Province, China. To satisfy the demands of the decision makers (DMs) of each subarea and the total area, a bilevel multiobjective linear programming (BLMOLP) model is proposed. In the BLMOLP, DMs have a hierarchy of two levels—the upper level and the lower level DMs. In this paper, a fuzzy goal programming (FGP) approach is applied to solve the BLMOLP. Firstly, the upper level is solved and used as the tolerance for the lower level. Then the weights of each objective function in the lower level are evaluated. Finally, a satisfied optimization solution of the problem was calculated. The result suggests that the FGP is a simple and feasible approach to BLMOLP problems. The proposed method was applied to a case study for water resources allocation in Wuwei Basin. For four scenarios under consideration, the model can effectively balance the benefits among all regions and sections according to the priority of the upper level decision makers. The results indicate that comprehensive solutions have been obtained.
The Time-Fractional Coupled-Korteweg-de-Vries Equations
Authors: Atangana Abdon , Secer Aydin
Published: March 2013

We put into practice a relatively new analytical technique, the homotopy decomposition method, for solving the nonlinear fractional coupled-Korteweg-de-Vries equations. Numerical solutions are given, and some properties exhibit reasonable dependence on the fractional-order derivatives’ values. The fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo sense. The reliability of HDM and the reduction in computations give HDM a wider applicability. In addition, the calculations involved in HDM are very simple and straightforward. It is demonstrated that HDM is a powerful and efficient tool for FPDEs. It was also demonstrated that HDM is more efficient than the adomian decomposition method (ADM), variational iteration method (VIM), homotopy analysis method (HAM), and homotopy perturbation method (HPM).
Analyses on Heating Energy Saving of Two Hot Waxy-Crude Oil Pipelines Laid Parallel in One Ditch
Authors: Sun Changzheng , Yu Bo
Published: March 2013

Laying two pipelines in one ditch is a new technology recently employed by the petroleum companies of China and has great advantages of minimizing environmental disruption as well as bringing tremendous economic and social benefits. In this study, by means of numerical simulations analyses are carried out to evaluate heating energy saving for the operation of two hot crude oil pipelines laid parallel in one ditch. Comparisons are made based on three various operating scenarios, among which the best operation is proposed. The effects of some important parameters such as the gap between the two pipelines (also called pipeline interval) and pipe length are investigated. It is found that two hot crude oil pipelines laid parallel in one ditch can dramatically save heating energy when compared with two pipelines laid, respectively, in two separate ditches.
Approximate Coincidence Point of Two Nonlinear Mappings
Authors: Dey Debashis , Kumar Laha Amit , Saha Mantu
Published: March 2013

We study the approximate coincidence point of two nonlinear functions introduced by Geraghty in 1973 and Mizoguchi and Takahashi (ℳ𝒯-function) in 1989.
Neutrino Propagation in Matter
Authors: Blennow Mattias , Smirnov Alexei Yu.
Published: March 2013

We describe the effects of neutrino propagation in the matter of the Earth relevant to experiments with atmospheric and accelerator neutrinos and aimed at the determination of the neutrino mass hierarchy and CP violation. These include (i) the resonance enhancement of neutrino oscillations in matter with constant or nearly constant density, (ii) adiabatic conversion in matter with slowly changing density, (iii) parametric enhancement of oscillations in a multilayer medium, and (iv) oscillations in thin layers of matter. We present the results of semianalytic descriptions of flavor transitions for the cases of small density perturbations, in the limit of large densities and for small density widths. Neutrino oscillograms of the Earth and their structure after determination of the 1–3 mixing are described. A possibility to identify the neutrino mass hierarchy with the atmospheric neutrinos and multimegaton scale detectors having low energy thresholds is explored. The potential of future accelerator experiments to establish the hierarchy is outlined.
A Mobility-Aware Efficient Routing Scheme for Mobile Sensor Networks
Authors: Jung Jinman , Cho Yookun , Hong Jiman
Published: March 2013

In mobile sensor networks, a variety of dynamic environmental conditions affect performance. Node movement caused by the network environment or by mobile entities makes the sensors particularly vulnerable to route failures, which in turn affects the efficiency and reliability of these networks. Therefore, mobility is an important factor in the design of a routing protocol for mobile sensor networks. In this paper, we propose a mobility-aware efficient routing called MAER, in which sensor nodes make use of mobile information to select the most appropriate routing behavior. The proposed method integrates proactive and reactive routing components efficiently using a sink cluster that consists of underlying multiple static or slow sensor nodes. The cluster provides the stable paths between less mobile entities efficiently. Our scheme also uses mobile information to evaluate and select alternative paths during a route discovery process, thus allowing sensor nodes dynamically to adapt to varying mobile networks. We evaluate the performance of MAER using a simulation by comparing it to the most popular standard for WSN, AODV. The results of the simulation show that our scheme outperforms AODV in mixed mobile sensor networks.
Intra-Abdominal Umbilical Vein Varix Associated with Fetal Cardiac Failure: A Pitfall to the Prenatal Diagnosis of Alpha-Zero-Thalassemia
Authors: Rosenblatt Jonathan , Loberstajn Annina , Coulomb Aurore , Stos Bertrand , Garel Catherine , Abarah Bassel , Bénifla Jean-Louis , Jouannic Jean-Marie
Published: March 2013

Hydrops fetalis related to homozygous α-thalassemia is a rare condition in Western Europe. We report a case of fetal cardiac failure that occurred after a second-trimester diagnosis of fetal umbilical vein aneurysm that was postnatally related to α-thalassemia.
Effectiveness of Infliximab in Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris Is Associated with Pro-Inflammatory Cytokine Inhibition
Authors: Adnot-Desanlis L. , Antonicelli F. , Tabary T. , Bernard P. , Reguiaï Z.
Published: March 2013

Background: Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a rare inflammatory skin disease. Recently, the use of anti-TNF-α in treating resistant forms of PRP has been reported. Objectives: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of infliximab in the treatment of PRP along with the evolution of secretion of some serum cytokines during treatment. Methods: Patients presenting widespread PRP were included consecutively and treated with infliximab. We compared cytokine profiles (notably CXCL-10 and TNF-α) by ELISA in sera from both patients with PRP and controls (healthy/psoriasis) at the time of diagnosis and after clinical remission (PRP). Results: 4 patients were treated with infliximab and achieved complete remission without any recurrence after treatment ending. The serum level of TNF-α and CXCL-10 was increased at the time of inclusion and normalized after treatment. Analysis of the typical component of the T helper cell 1 (Th1) and Th2 cytokine network did not show modification. Conclusion: Infliximab is an effective treatment of PRP. The analysis of the cytokine profile is in agreement with an absence of further recurrence of PRP by an early and unique inflammatory mechanism without significant underlying autoimmunity.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Congenital Epulis by 2D/3D Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Frisova Veronika , Prosova Blanka , Mahdian Nima , Kyncl Martin , Vlk Radovan , Rocek Miloslav
Published: March 2013

Congenital epulis is a rare benign oral cavity tumor that usually arises from the maxillary alveolar mucosa. It is also known as congenital gingival granular cell tumor. Prenatal diagnosis is uncommon and mostly confined to the third trimester. We report a case of congenital epulis, which was referred to our department at 35 weeks of gestation. Both images from our prenatal 2D/3D ultrasound (including Doppler technique) and magnetic resonance examination are presented. A baby girl weighing 2,800 g was delivered spontaneously at 36 weeks and 1 day. The newborn had to be intubated immediately after delivery. A simple excision of the mass was performed on the first day of neonatal life after clinical examination by our pediatric stomatologists confirmed the presence of a tumor resembling epulis. The correctness of this diagnosis was subsequently confirmed by histogenesis. Photographs from the operating room show the postnatal appearance of the tumor. The baby was discharged at the age of 19 days and has remained well at follow-up controls.
Could Craniometric Measurements Explain the Growth of the Superior Sagittal Sinus?
Authors: de Souza Rodrigo Becco , Pinto Fernando Campos Gomes
Published: March 2013

Objective: The objective of this study was to relate demographic variables and craniometric measures with measurements of the superior sagittal sinus (SSS) at different points along the path of the SSS. The findings were then discussed with regards to theories of skull growth. Methods: We studied 33 skulls with known demographic characteristics and measured various craniometric parameters and distances related to the specific dimensions of the SSS. These data were statistically analyzed, and the results are presented. Results: Of the 33 cadaver samples, 16 were female and 17 were male, aged between 28 and 87 years at the time of death. The cross-sectional area of the SSS measured at the coronary suture was positively correlated with the biauricular length. In addition, when measured 1.5 cm above the torcula, the cross-sectional area of the SSS was negatively correlated with the distance between the medial epicanthi. Conclusions: The relationships found may indicate that the growth of the SSS is proportional to the activity of each segment of the SSS that occurs along its path.
Comparative Safety and Effectiveness of Metformin in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus and Heart Failure
Authors: Eurich Dean T. , Weir Daniala L. , Majumdar Sumit R. , Tsuyuki Ross T. , Johnson Jeffrey A. , Tjosvold Lisa , Vanderloo Saskia E. , McAlister Finlay A.
Published: March 2013

Background—

There is an ongoing controversy regarding the safety and effectiveness of metformin in the setting of heart failure (HF). Therefore, we undertook a systematic review of the trial and nontrial evidence for metformin in patients with diabetes mellitus and HF.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a comprehensive search for controlled studies, evaluating the association between metformin and morbidity and mortality in people with diabetes mellitus and HF. Two reviewers independently identified citations, extracted data, and evaluated quality. Risk estimates were abstracted and pooled where appropriate. As measures of overall safety, we examined all-cause mortality and all-cause hospitalizations. Nine cohort studies were included; no randomized controlled trials were identified. Most (5 of 9) studies were published in 2010 and were of good quality. Metformin was associated with reduced mortality compared with controls (mostly sulfonylurea therapy): 23% versus 37% (pooled adjusted risk estimates: 0.80; 0.74–0.87;
I
2
=15%;
P
<0.001). No increased risk was observed for metformin in those with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (mortality pooled adjusted risk estimate: 0.91; 0.72–1.14;
I
2
=0%;
P
=0.34), nor in those with HF and chronic kidney disease (pooled adjusted risk estimate: 0.81; 0.64–1.02;
P
=0.08). Metformin was associated with a small reduction in all-cause hospitalizations (pooled adjusted risk estimate: 0.93; 0.89–0.98;
I
2
=0%;
P
=0.01). Metformin was not associated with increased risk of lactic acidosis.

Conclusions—

The totality of evidence indicates that metformin is at least as safe as other glucose-lowering treatments in patients with diabetes mellitus and HF and even in those with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction or concomitant chronic kidney disease. Until trial data become available, metformin should be considered the treatment of choice for patients with diabetes mellitus and HF.
Ideal Cardiovascular Health Is Inversely Associated With Incident Cancer
Authors: Rasmussen-Torvik Laura J. , Shay Christina M. , Abramson Judith G. , Friedrich Christopher A. , Nettleton Jennifer A. , Prizment Anna E. , Folsom Aaron R.
Published: March 2013

Background—

The American Heart Association (AHA) has defined the concept of ideal cardiovascular health in promotion of the 2020 Strategic Impact Goals. We examined whether adherence to ideal levels of the 7 AHA cardiovascular health metrics was associated with incident cancers in the Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities (ARIC) study over 17 to 19 years of follow-up.

Methods and Results—

After exclusions for missing data and prevalent cancer, 13 253 ARIC participants were included for analysis. Baseline measurements were used to classify participants according to 7 AHA cardiovascular health metrics. Combined cancer incidence (excluding nonmelanoma skin cancers) from 1987 to 2006 was captured using cancer registries and hospital surveillance; 2880 incident cancer cases occurred over follow-up. Cox regression was used to calculate hazard ratios for incident cancer. There was a significant (
P
trend <0.0001), graded, inverse association between the number of ideal cardiovascular health metrics at baseline and cancer incidence. Participants meeting goals for 6 to 7 ideal health metrics (2.7% of the population) had 51% lower risk of incident cancer than those meeting goals for 0 ideal health metrics. When smoking was removed from the sum of ideal health metrics, the association was attenuated with participants meeting goals for 5 to 6 health metrics having 25% lower cancer risk than those meeting goals for 0 ideal health metrics (
P
trend =0.03).

Conclusions—

Adherence to the 7 ideal health metrics defined in the AHA 2020 goals is associated with lower cancer incidence. The AHA should continue to pursue partnerships with cancer advocacy groups to achieve reductions in chronic disease prevalence.
The Pixelated Revolution
Authors: Mroué Rabih , Martin Carol
Published: March 2013

How should we understand the mobile phone images uploaded to the internet during the ongoing Syrian Revolution? Are the broken-up and incomplete images taken by Syrians an extension of their physical experiences? Are mobile phones extensions of photographers' brains, of their bodies, of their beings?
Playing, Fighting, and Dancing: Unpacking the Significance of Ginga within the Practice of Capoeira Angola
Authors: Rosa Cristina
Published: March 2013

Capoeira players are best known for their syncopated swings, sweeps, and slides, collectively known as ginga in Brazil. How does this particular mode of action function, and what roles does it assume during games of capoeira angola?
Between Laboratory and Institution: Practice as Research in No Man's Land
Authors: Camilleri Frank
Published: March 2013

Is practical performance laboratory work feasible within an institutional academic setting? The possibilities for practice as research in contemporary academia is examined through an ongoing research project that focuses on the area between training and performance.
Reinventing the Show Trial: Putin and Pussy Riot
Authors: Schuler Catherine
Published: March 2013

Political art or criminal hooliganism? Judge sentences unruly punk performance artists to two years for “criminal” hooliganism. Citing historical precedent, Pussy Riot remains defiant and will not ask Putin for a pardon.