bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First-principles study of electronic, optical and thermoelectric properties in cubic perovskite materials AgMO3 (M = V, Nb, Ta)
Authors: Mahmood Asif , Ramay Shahid M. , Rafique Hafiz Muhammad , Al-Zaghayer Yousef , Khan Salah Ud-Din
Published: May 2014

In this paper, first-principles calculations of structural, electronic, optical and thermoelectric properties of AgMO 3 ( M = V , Nb and Ta ) have been carried out using full potential linearized augmented plane wave plus local orbitals method ( FP - LAPW + lo ) and BoltzTraP code within the framework of density functional theory (DFT). The calculated structural parameters are found to agree well with the experimental data, while the electronic band structure indicates that AgNbO 3 and AgTaO 3 are semiconductors with indirect bandgaps of 1.60 eV and 1.64 eV, respectively, between the occupied O 2p and unoccupied d states of Nb and Ta . On the other hand, AgVO 3 is found metallic due to the overlapping behavior of states across the Fermi level. Furthermore, optical properties, such as dielectric function, absorption coefficient, optical reflectivity, refractive index and extinction coefficient of AgNbO 3 and AgTaO 3, are calculated for incident photon energy up to 50 eV. Finally, we calculate thermo power for AgNbO 3 and AgTaO 3 at fixed doping 1019 cm-3. Electron doped thermo power of AgNbO 3 shows significant increase over AgTaO 3 with temperature.
Preparation of Schrödinger cat states of a cavity field via coupling to a superconducting charge qubit
Authors: Freitas Dagoberto S. , Nemes M. C.
Published: May 2014

We extend the approach in Ref. 5 [Y.-X. Liu, L. F. Wei and F. Nori, Phys. Rev. A 71 (2005) 063820] for preparing superposition states of a cavity field interacting with a superconducting charge qubit. We study effects of the nonlinearity on the creation of such states. We show that the main contribution of nonlinear effects is to shorten the time necessary to build the superposition.
Effect of heat treatment conditions on microstructure and magnetic property of Fe77Co2Zr9B10Cu2 alloy
Authors: Yu W. Q. , Meng X. C. , Zuo B. , Sun Y. M. , Li B. , Hua Z.
Published: May 2014

Fe 77 Co 2 Zr 9 B 10 Cu 2 alloy prepared by melt-spinning was annealed at different heat treatment conditions. The thermal property, microstructure and magnetic property of alloys were investigated by differential thermal analysis (DTA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Fe 77 Co 2 Zr 9 B 10 Cu 2 alloy as-quenched is a mixture of α- Fe ( Co ) phase, H -phase and amorphous phase. With increasing annealing temperature, the H -phase transforms to α- Fe ( Co ) phase. Coercivity (Hc) of Fe 77 Co 2 Zr 9 B 10 Cu 2 alloy annealed at 600°C for 40 min followed by furnace cooling reaches the minimum value, which is attributed to the small and homogeneous α- Fe ( Co ) grain structure.
AREA-EFFICIENT DIGIT SERIAL–SERIAL TWO'S COMPLEMENT MULTIPLIER
Authors: ELSAYED ESSAM , EL-BOGHDADI HATEM
Published: May 2014

Although parallel multipliers are optimal for speed, they occupy considerable chip area. For applications with lengthy operands as cryptography, the required area grows further. On the other hand, digit multipliers reduce chip area at the expense of the number of cycles required to complete the multiplication. In such multipliers, one-or-both inputs are received serially one digit per cycle. Digit multiplier designs are flexible with respect to the digit width enabling designers to select the most suitable compromise between area and cycle count for the application under consideration. This paper proposes a new digit serial–serial multiplier that is more area efficient compared to other functionally-similar multipliers.

First, we propose a new unsigned digit serial–serial multiplier that is area efficient. The multiplier has the ability to handle unequal-width operands. That is, one operand can be of dynamic width (unlimited digit count) and the other operand is of fixed width. Moreover, with a small modification, the multiplier can operate on two's complement operands. Then, the design is extended to support bit-level pipelining: the critical path of the multiplier pipeline stage is independent of the operand width and the digit width. Simulation results show that the proposed multiplier reduces the area over similar multipliers by up to 28% and reduces power by up to 31%.
KEY RECENT EXPERIENCES IN THE APPLICATION OF SEA IN BRAZIL
Authors: SILVA HELIANA VIELLA OLIVEIRA , PIRES SILVIA HELENA MENEZES , OBERLING DANIEL FONTANA , LA ROVERE EMILIO LÉBRE
Published: May 2014

One of the requirements for a good Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is its capacity to adjust itself to the planned decision-making process. This paper presents recent experiences involving the application of SEA in Brazil in three different contexts. In the first case, an SEA was conducted to meet a request of the Ministry of Tourism for information to prepare the Development Plan for Sustainable Tourism in the North Coast. The second case is an initiative undertaken by the Secretary of Environment of the State of Bahia for the construction of a seaport-industrial complex in the region of Ilhéus (Bahia). Finally, an SEA commissioned by a group of environmental NGOs to assess options for the development of a mining-metal and chemical-gas complex in the Pantanal Region near the Bolivian and Paraguayan border is presented. The paper highlights the differences in the contexts of the three studies (responsibilities in the decision-making process, stages of the planning process, etc.) as well as in their methodological approaches. Difficulties, gaps, advances and findings in each case are also analysed to assess the effectiveness of each SEA.
Seismic Performance of Industrial Sheds and Liquefaction Effects During May 2012 Emilia Earthquakes Sequence in Northern Italy
Authors: Cimellaro Gian Paolo , Chiriatti Marco , Roh Hwasung , Reinhorn Andrei M.
Published: May 2014

On May 20, 2012 at 2:03 UTC, a Mw 6.1 earthquake occurred in Emilia Region of Northern Italy. The event was preceded by a Ml 4.1 foreshock on May 19, 2012 at 23:13 UTC, and followed by several aftershocks, twenty of them with a magnitude Mw greater than 4. The epicentral area of the seismic sequence covers alluvial lowland that is occupied by both agricultural and urbanized areas. Liquefaction effects were observed in several villages on the west side of Ferrara which were built upon former river beds such as the Reno River. The Emilia seismic sequence resulted in 27 casualties, several of whom were among the workers in the factories that collapsed during working hours, and there was extensive damage to monuments, public buildings, industrial sites and private homes. Almost no municipalities hit by 2012 earthquake were classified as seismic area before 2003; therefore, most of the existing structures had been designed without taking in account the seismic actions. The main aims of MCEER field mission was to document the emergency response and the most common damage mechanisms of industrial sheds during Emilia earthquake sequence which are shown and discussed in detail.
Experimental considerations for testing antimatter antigravity using positronium 1S-2S spectroscopy
Authors: Crivelli P. , Cooke D. A. , Friedreich S.
Published: May 2014

In this contribution to the WAG 2013 workshop we report on the status of our measurement of the 1S-2S transition frequency of positronium. The aim of this experiment is to reach a precision of 0.5 ppb in order to cross check the QED calculations. After reviewing the current available sources of Ps, we consider laser cooling as a route to push the precision in the measurement down to 0.1 ppb. If such an uncertainty could be achieved, this would be sensitive to the gravitational redshift and therefore be able to assess the sign of gravity for antimatter.
Atom control and gravity measurements using Rydberg positronium
Authors: Cassidy D. B. , Hogan S. D.
Published: May 2014

We consider some of the obstacles that will have to be overcome in order to perform a direct measurement of the gravitational free-fall of positronium atoms. Foremost among these are the production of positronium atoms in a cryogenic environment, efficient excitation of these atoms to suitably long-lived Rydberg states, and their subsequent control via the interaction of their large electric dipole moments with inhomogeneous electric fields. Recent developments in all of these areas can be directly applied to a positronium free-fall gravity measurement, making such an endeavour both timely and feasible.
The medial preoptic nucleus as a site of the thermogenic and metabolic actions of melanotan II in male rats
Authors: Monge-Roffarello Boris , Labbe Sebastien M. , Lenglos Christophe , Caron Alexandre , Lanfray Damien , Samson Pierre , Richard Denis
Published: May 2014

The present study was designed to investigate the role of the medial preoptic nucleus (MPO) as a site of the thermogenic and metabolic effects of the α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analog melanotan II (MTII). We also assessed the involvement of the dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus (DMH) by investigating the effects of the MPO infusion of MTII in rats with DMH lesions produced by kainic acid. Infusion of MTII in the MPO led to increases in interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT) temperature and iBAT uptake of 14C-bromopalmitate. Both increases were blocked by DMH lesions. iBAT temperature increase (area under curve) and 14C-bromopalmitate uptake emerged as two correlated variables ( r = 0.63, P < 0.001). DMH lesions also blocked MTII-induced expression of mRNAs coding for proteins involved in 1) thermogenesis [type II iodothyronine deiodinase ( Dio2) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-α ( Pgc1α)], 2) lipolysis [hormone-sensitive lipase ( Hsl)], and 3) lipogenesis [diacylglycerol-O-acyltransferase 2 ( Dgat2), fatty acid synthase ( Fas)], in iBAT of rats killed 1 h after MPO infusion of MTII. MTII also stimulated expression of genes in iWAT but only in rats with DMH lesions. These genes included glucose transporter member 4 ( Glut4), glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase 3 ( Gpat3), Dgat1, Dgat2, triglyceride lipase ( Atgl), Hsl, and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1β ( Cpt1β). Altogether, the present results reveal the MPO as a site of the thermogenic and metabolic actions of MTII. They also contribute to establish the MPO-DMH duet as a significant target for melanocortins to modulate energy homeostasis.
Decreased complexity of glucose dynamics in diabetes: evidence from multiscale entropy analysis of continuous glucose monitoring system data
Authors: Chen (陳錦龍) Jin-Long , Chen (陳品汎) Pin-Fan , Wang (王鴻銘) Hung-Ming
Published: May 2014

Parameters of glucose dynamics recorded by the continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) could help in the control of glycemic fluctuations, which is important in diabetes management. Multiscale entropy (MSE) analysis has recently been developed to measure the complexity of physical and physiological time sequences. A reduced MSE complexity index indicates the increased repetition patterns of the time sequence, and, thus, a decreased complexity in this system. No study has investigated the MSE analysis of glucose dynamics in diabetes. This study was designed to compare the complexity of glucose dynamics between the diabetic patients ( n = 17) and the control subjects ( n = 13), who were matched for sex, age, and body mass index via MSE analysis using the CGMS data. Compared with the control subjects, the diabetic patients revealed a significant increase ( P < 0.001) in the mean (diabetic patients 166.0 ± 10.4 vs. control subjects 93.3 ± 1.5 mg/dl), the standard deviation (51.7 ± 4.3 vs. 11.1 ± 0.5 mg/dl), and the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (127.0 ± 9.2 vs. 27.7 ± 1.3 mg/dl) of the glucose levels; and a significant decrease ( P < 0.001) in the MSE complexity index (5.09 ± 0.23 vs. 7.38 ± 0.28). In conclusion, the complexity of glucose dynamics is decreased in diabetes. This finding implies the reactivity of glucoregulation is impaired in the diabetic patients. Such impairment presenting as an increased regularity of glycemic fluctuating pattern could be detected by MSE analysis. Thus, the MSE complexity index could potentially be used as a biomarker in the monitoring of diabetes.
Role of medullary progenitor cells in epithelial cell migration and proliferation
Authors: Chen Dong , Chen Zhiyong , Zhang Yuning , Park Chanyoung , Al-Omari Ahmed , Moeckel Gilbert W.
Published: May 2014

This study is aimed at characterizing medullary interstitial progenitor cells and to examine their capacity to induce tubular epithelial cell migration and proliferation. We have isolated a progenitor cell side population from a primary medullary interstitial cell line. We show that the medullary progenitor cells (MPCs) express CD24, CD44, CXCR7, CXCR4, nestin, and PAX7. MPCs are CD34 negative, which indicates that they are not bone marrow-derived stem cells. MPCs survive >50 passages, and when grown in epithelial differentiation medium develop phenotypic characteristics of epithelial cells. Inner medulla collecting duct (IMCD3) cells treated with conditioned medium from MPCs show significantly accelerated cell proliferation and migration. Conditioned medium from PGE2-treated MPCs induce tubule formation in IMCD3 cells grown in 3D Matrigel. Moreover, most of the MPCs express the pericyte marker PDGFR-b. Our study shows that the medullary interstitium harbors a side population of progenitor cells that can differentiate to epithelial cells and can stimulate tubular epithelial cell migration and proliferation. The findings of this study suggest that medullary pericyte/progenitor cells may play a critical role in collecting duct cell injury repair.
Knock-in model of Dravet syndrome reveals a constitutive and conditional reduction in sodium current
Authors: Schutte Ryan J. , Schutte Soleil S. , Algara Jacqueline , Barragan Eden V. , Gilligan Jeff , Staber Cynthia , Savva Yiannis A. , Smith Martin A. , Reenan Robert , O'Dowd Diane K.
Published: May 2014

Hundreds of mutations in the SCN1A sodium channel gene confer a wide spectrum of epileptic disorders, requiring efficient model systems to study cellular mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic targets. We recently demonstrated that Drosophila knock-in flies carrying the K1270T SCN1A mutation known to cause a form of genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFS+) exhibit a heat-induced increase in sodium current activity and seizure phenotype. To determine whether different SCN1A mutations cause distinct phenotypes in Drosophila as they do in humans, this study focuses on a knock-in line carrying a mutation that causes a more severe seizure disorder termed Dravet syndrome (DS). Introduction of the DS SCN1A mutation (S1231R) into the Drosophila sodium channel gene para results in flies that exhibit spontaneous and heat-induced seizures with distinct characteristics and lower onset temperature than the GEFS+ flies. Electrophysiological studies of GABAergic interneurons in the brains of adult DS flies reveal, for the first time in an in vivo model system, that a missense DS mutation causes a constitutive and conditional reduction in sodium current activity and repetitive firing. In addition, feeding with the serotonin precursor 5-HTP suppresses heat-induced seizures in DS but not GEFS+ flies. The distinct alterations of sodium currents in DS and GEFS+ GABAergic interneurons demonstrate that both loss- and gain-of-function alterations in sodium currents are capable of causing reduced repetitive firing and seizure phenotypes. The mutation-specific effects of 5-HTP on heat-induced seizures suggest the serotonin pathway as a potential therapeutic target for DS.
A Stochastic Wavelet Finite Element Method for 1D and 2D Structures Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xingwu , Chen Xuefeng , Yang Zhibo , Li Bing , He Zhengjia
Published: May 2014

A stochastic finite element method based on B-spline wavelet on the interval (BSWI-SFEM) is presented for static analysis of 1D and 2D structures in this paper. Instead of conventional polynomial interpolation, the scaling functions of BSWI are employed to construct the displacement field. By means of virtual work principle and BSWI, the wavelet finite elements of beam, plate, and plane rigid frame are obtained. Combining the Monte Carlo method and the constructed BSWI elements together, the BSWI-SFEM is formulated. The constructed BSWI-SFEM can deal with the problems of structural response uncertainty caused by the variability of the material properties, static load amplitudes, and so on. Taking the widely used Timoshenko beam, the Mindlin plate, and the plane rigid frame as examples, numerical results have demonstrated that the proposed method can give a higher accuracy and a better constringency than the conventional stochastic finite element methods.
Convex Minimization with Constraints of Systems of Variational Inequalities, Mixed Equilibrium, Variational Inequality, and Fixed Point Problems
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Liao Cheng-Wen , Pang Chin-Tzong , Wen Ching-Feng
Published: May 2014

We introduce and analyze one iterative algorithm by hybrid shrinking projection method for finding a solution of the minimization problem for a convex and continuously Fréchet differentiable functional, with constraints of several problems: finitely many generalized mixed equilibrium problems, finitely many variational inequalities, the general system of variational inequalities and the fixed point problem of an asymptotically strict pseudocontractive mapping in the intermediate sense in a real Hilbert space. We prove strong convergence theorem for the iterative algorithm under suitable conditions. On the other hand, we also propose another iterative algorithm by hybrid shrinking projection method for finding a fixed point of infinitely many nonexpansive mappings with the same constraints, and derive its strong convergence under mild assumptions.
Stress-Induced Mast Cell Activation in Glabrous and Hairy Skin
Authors: Căruntu Constantin , Boda Daniel , Musat Sorin , Căruntu Ana , Mandache Eugen
Published: May 2014

Mast cells play a key role in modulation of stress-induced cutaneous inflammation. In this study we investigate the impact of repeated exposure to stress on mast cell degranulation, in both hairy and glabrous skin. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: Stress 1 day(n=8), Stress 10 days(n=7), Stress 21 days(n=6), and Control(n=8). Rats in the stress groups were subjected to 2 h/day restraint stress. Subsequently, glabrous and hairy skin samples from animals of all groups were collected to assess mast cell degranulation by histochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. The impact of stress on mast cell degranulation was different depending on the type of skin and duration of stress exposure. Short-term stress exposure induced an amplification of mast cell degranulation in hairy skin that was maintained after prolonged exposure to stress. In glabrous skin, even though acute stress exposure had a profound stimulating effect on mast cell degranulation, it diminished progressively with long-term exposure to stress. The results of our study reinforce the view that mast cells are active players in modulating skin responses to stress and contribute to further understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms involved in stress-induced initiation or exacerbation of cutaneous inflammatory processes.
Permanence and Extinction for a Nonautonomous Malaria Transmission Model with Distributed Time Delay
Authors: Zhang Xiaohong , Jia Jianwen , Song Xinyu
Published: May 2014

We study the permanence, extinction, and global asymptotic stability for a nonautonomous malaria transmission model with distributed time delay. We establish some sufficient conditions on the permanence and extinction of the disease by using inequality analytical techniques. By a Lyapunov functional method, we also obtain some sufficient conditions for global asymptotic stability of this model. A numerical analysis is given to explain the analytical findings.
Floristic Composition, Structure, and Species Associations of Dry Miombo Woodland in Tanzania
Authors: Mwakalukwa Ezekiel Edward , Meilby Henrik , Treue Thorsten
Published: May 2014

For the majority of forest reserves in Tanzania, biodiversity is poorly documented. This study was conducted to assess species richness (woody species), diversity, and forest structure and to examine relationships between species occurrence and topographic and edaphic factors in the Gangalamtumba Village Land Forest Reserve, a dry Miombo woodland area in Tanzania. A total of 35 nested circular plots with radii of 5, 15, and 20 m were used to collect data on woody species and soil samples across the 6,065 ha community-managed forest reserve. Stumps were measured 20 cm above ground. A total of 88 species belonging to 29 families were identified. Generally forest structure parameters and diversity indices indicated the forest to be in a good condition and have high species richness and diversity. Vegetation analysis revealed four communities of which two were dominated by the family Caesalpiniaceae, indicating large variation of site conditions and possible disturbances in the study area. The high level of diversity of woody species and the high basal area and volume indicate that the forest is in good condition, but the effect of anthropogenic activities is evident and stresses the need for proper management to maintain or enhance the present species diversity.
One Nonlinear PID Control to Improve the Control Performance of a Manipulator Actuated by a Pneumatic Muscle Actuator
Authors: Zhong Jun , Fan Jizhuang , Zhu Yanhe , Zhao Jie , Zhai Wenjie
Published: May 2014

Braided pneumatic muscle actuator shows highly nonlinear properties between displacements and forces, which are caused by nonlinearity of pneumatic system and nonlinearity of its geometric construction. In this paper, a new model based on Bouc-Wen differential equation is proposed to describe the hysteretic behavior caused by its structure. The hysteretic loop between contractile force and displacement is dissolved into linear component and hysteretic component. Relationship between pressure within muscle actuator and parameters of the proposed model is discussed. A single degree of freedom manipulator actuated by PMA is designed. On the basis of the proposed model, a novel cascade position controller is designed. Single neuron adaptive PID algorithm is adopted to cope with the nonlinearity and model uncertainties of the manipulator. The outer loop of the controller is to handle position tracking problem and the inner loop is to control pressure. The controller is applied to the manipulator and experiments are conducted. Results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed controller.
Multiobjective Fuzzy Mixed Assembly Line Sequencing Optimization Model
Authors: Tahriri Farzad , Zawiah Md Dawal Siti , Taha Zahari
Published: May 2014

It can be deduced from previous studies that there exists a research gap in assembly line sequencing optimization model for mixed-model production lines. In particular, there is a lack of studies which focus on the integration between job shop and assembly lines using fuzzy techniques. Hence, this paper is aimed at addressing the multiobjective mixed-model assembly line sequencing problem by integrating job shop and assembly production lines for factories with modular layouts. The primary goal is to minimize the make-span, setup time, and cost simultaneously in mixed-model assembly lines. Such conflicting goals arise when switching between different products. A genetic algorithm (GA) approach is used to solve this problem, in which trapezoidal fuzzy numbers are implemented for variables such as operation and travelling time in order to generate results with higher accuracy and representative of real-case data.
Prenatal Maternal Stress Predicts Childhood Asthma in Girls: Project Ice Storm
Authors: Turcotte-Tremblay Anne-Marie , Lim Robert , Laplante David P. , Kobzik Lester , Brunet Alain , King Suzanne
Published: May 2014

Little is known about how prenatal maternal stress (PNMS) influences risks of asthma in humans. In this small study, we sought to determine whether disaster-related PNMS would predict asthma risk in children. In June 1998, we assessed severity of objective hardship and subjective distress in women pregnant during the January 1998 Quebec Ice Storm. Lifetime asthma symptoms, diagnoses, and corticosteroid utilization were assessed when the children were 12 years old (N=68). No effects of objective hardship or timing of the exposure were found. However, we found that, in girls only, higher levels of prenatal maternal subjective distress predicted greater lifetime risk of wheezing (OR=1.11; 90% CI = 1.01–1.23), doctor-diagnosed asthma (OR=1.09; 90% CI = 1.00–1.19), and lifetime utilization of corticosteroids (OR=1.12; 90% CI = 1.01–1.25). Other perinatal and current maternal life events were also associated with asthma outcomes. Findings suggest that stress during pregnancy opens a window for fetal programming of immune functioning. A sex-based approach may be useful to examine how prenatal and postnatal environments combine to program the immune system. This small study needs to be replicated with a larger, more representative sample.
Iterative Schemes for Convex Minimization Problems with Constraints
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Liao Cheng-Wen , Pang Chin-Tzong , Wen Ching-Feng
Published: May 2014

We first introduce and analyze one implicit iterative algorithm for finding a solution of the minimization problem for a convex and continuously Fréchet differentiable functional, with constraints of several problems: the generalized mixed equilibrium problem, the system of generalized equilibrium problems, and finitely many variational inclusions in a real Hilbert space. We prove strong convergence theorem for the iterative algorithm under suitable conditions. On the other hand, we also propose another implicit iterative algorithm for finding a fixed point of infinitely many nonexpansive mappings with the same constraints, and derive its strong convergence under mild assumptions.
Impact of Hemodialysis on Dyspnea and Lung Function in End Stage Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Palamidas Anastasios F. , Gennimata Sofia-Antiopi , Karakontaki Foteini , Kaltsakas Georgios , Papantoniou Ioannis , Koutsoukou Antonia , Milic-Emili Joseph , Vlahakos Demetrios V. , Koulouris Nikolaos G.
Published: May 2014

Background. Respiratory symptoms are usually underestimated in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Therefore, we set out to investigate the prevalence of patients chronic dyspnea and the relationship of the symptom to lung function indices.Methods. Twenty-five clinically stable hemodialysis patients were included. The mMRC dyspnea scale was applied before and after hemodialysis. Spirometry, single breath nitrogen test, arterial blood gases, static maximum inspiratory (Pimax⁡) and expiratory (Pemax⁡) muscle pressures, and mouth occlusion pressure (P0.1) were also measured.Results. Despite normal spirometry, all patients (100%) reported mild to moderate degree of chronic dyspnea pre which was reduced after hemodialysis. The sole predictor of (Δ) mMRC was the (Δ)P0.1(r=0.71,  P<0.001). ThePimax⁡was reduced before and correlated with the duration of hemodialysis (r=0.614,  P<0.001), whilst after the session it was significantly increased (P<0.001). Finally (Δ) weight was correlated with the (Δ)Pimax⁡  %pred(r=0.533,  P=0,006) and with the (Δ) CV(%pred)(r=0.65,  P<0.001).Conclusion. We conclude that dyspnea is the major symptom among the CKD patients that improves after hemodialysis. The neuromechanical dissociation observed probably is one of the major pathophysiologic mechanisms of dyspnea.
Effect of Regular Yogic Training on Growth Hormone and Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate as an Endocrine Marker of Aging
Authors: Chatterjee Sridip , Mondal Samiran
Published: May 2014

Growth hormone (GH) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) secretion decline with advancing age and are associated with the symptoms of aging. Yogic texts claimed that regular practice of yoga may restore and maintain general endocrinological properties in the human body. Objective of the Study. To observe the effect of yogic training for twelve weeks on basal level of GH and DHEAS in middle aged group. Method. Forty‐five untrained volunteers were divided into two groups, that is, yoga practicing (experimental: male 15, age 42.80 ± 7.43 yrs; female 8, age 44.75 ± 8.40 yrs) and waitlisted control group (male 15, age 41.67 ± 7.87 yrs; female 7, age 45.43 ± 7.00 yrs). The experimental group underwent combined yogic practices daily in the morning for 6 days/week for 12 weeks, whereas control group continued their usual routine activities. Standing height, body weight, body mass index, and basal level of GH and DHEAS were measured before commencement and after six and twelve weeks of yogic training period. The repeated measure ANOVA was used for data analysis. Results. 12 weeks of yogic training produces a significant increase in GH and DHEAS for both male and female groups as compared to their baseline data, whereas no as such changes were observed in the control group. Conclusion. Combined approach of graded yogic training may be beneficial for maintaining the basal level of GH and DHEAS in the human body, thus promoting healthy aging.
A Few Good Reasons Why Species-Area Relationships Do Not Work for Parasites
Authors: Strona Giovanni , Fattorini Simone
Published: May 2014

Several studies failed to find strong relationships between the biological and ecological features of a host and the number of parasite species it harbours. In particular, host body size and geographical range are generally only weak predictors of parasite species richness, especially when host phylogeny and sampling effort are taken into account. These results, however, have been recently challenged by a meta-analytic study that suggested a prominent role of host body size and range extent in determining parasite species richness (species-area relationships). Here we argue that, in general, results from meta-analyses should not discourage researchers from investigating the reasons for the lack of clear patterns, thus proposing a few tentative explanations to the fact that species-area relationships are infrequent or at least difficult to be detected in most host-parasite systems. The peculiar structure of host-parasite networks, the enemy release hypothesis, the possible discrepancy between host and parasite ranges, and the evolutionary tendency of parasites towards specialization may explain why the observed patterns often do not fit those predicted by species-area relationships.
Periodic Solutions of a Stage-Structured Plant-Hare Model with Toxin-Determined Functional Responses
Authors: Wang Huicheng , Wong Patricia J. Y. , Xia Yonghui
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this paper is to obtain some sufficient conditions for the global existence of multiple positive periodic solutions of a delayed stage-structured plant-hare model with a toxin-determined functional response. Some novel estimation techniques to construct two open subsets for a priori bounds are employed.
Lipid Peroxidation: Production, Metabolism, and Signaling Mechanisms of Malondialdehyde and 4-Hydroxy-2-Nonenal
Authors: Ayala Antonio , Muñoz Mario F. , Argüelles Sandro
Published: May 2014

Lipid peroxidation can be described generally as a process under which oxidants such as free radicals attack lipids containing carbon-carbon double bond(s), especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Over the last four decades, an extensive body of literature regarding lipid peroxidation has shown its important role in cell biology and human health. Since the early 1970s, the total published research articles on the topic of lipid peroxidation was 98 (1970–1974) and has been increasing at almost 135-fold, by up to 13165 in last 4 years (2010–2013). New discoveries about the involvement in cellular physiology and pathology, as well as the control of lipid peroxidation, continue to emerge every day. Given the enormity of this field, this review focuses on biochemical concepts of lipid peroxidation, production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of two main omega-6 fatty acids lipid peroxidation products: malondialdehyde (MDA) and, in particular, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), summarizing not only its physiological and protective function as signaling molecule stimulating gene expression and cell survival, but also its cytotoxic role inhibiting gene expression and promoting cell death. Finally, overviews ofin vivomammalian model systems used to study the lipid peroxidation process, and common pathological processes linked to MDA and 4-HNE are shown.
Treatment of Nongout Joint Deposition Diseases: An Update
Authors: Pascart Tristan , Richette Pascal , Flipo René-Marc
Published: May 2014

This update develops the actual therapeutic options in the management of the joint involvement of calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPPD), basic calcium phosphate (BCP) deposition disease, hemochromatosis (HH), ochronosis, oxalosis, and Wilson’s disease. Conventional pharmaceutical treatment provides benefits for most diseases. Anti-interleukine-1 (IL-1) treatment could provide similar results in CPPD than in gout flares. There is only limited evidence about the efficacy of preventive long-term colchicine intake, methotrexate, and hydroxychloroquine in chronic CPPD. Needle aspiration and lavage have satisfactory short and midterm results in BCP. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy has also proved its efficacy for high-doses regimes. Phlebotomy does not seem to have shown real efficacy on joint involvement in HH so far. Iron chelators’ effects have not been assessed on joint involvement either, while IL-1 blockade may prove useful. NSAIDs have limited efficacy on joint involvement of oxalosis, while colchicine and steroids have not been assessed either. The use of nitisinone for ochronotic arthropathy is still much debated, but it could provide beneficial effects on joint involvement. The effects of copper chelators have not been assessed either in the joint involvement of Wilson’s disease. NSAIDs should be avoided because of the liver affection they may worsen.
Developing Attention: Behavioral and Brain Mechanisms
Authors: Posner Michael I. , Rothbart Mary K. , Sheese Brad E. , Voelker Pascale
Published: May 2014

Brain networks underlying attention are present even during infancy and are critical for the developing ability of children to control their emotions and thoughts. For adults, individual differences in the efficiency of attentional networks have been related to neuromodulators and to genetic variations. We have examined the development of attentional networks and child temperament in a longitudinal study from infancy (7 months) to middle childhood (7 years). Early temperamental differences among infants, including smiling and laughter and vocal reactivity, are related to self-regulation abilities at 7 years. However, genetic variations related to adult executive attention, while present in childhood, are poor predictors of later control, in part because individual genetic variation may have many small effects and in part because their influence occurs in interaction with caregiver behavior and other environmental influences. While brain areas involved in attention are present during infancy, their connectivity changes and leads to improvement in control of behavior. It is also possible to influence control mechanisms through training later in life. The relation between maturation and learning may allow advances in our understanding of human brain development.
Expression of Stem Cell and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Markers in Circulating Tumor Cells of Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Krawczyk Natalia , Meier-Stiegen Franziska , Banys Malgorzata , Neubauer Hans , Ruckhaeberle Eugen , Fehm Tanja
Published: May 2014

Evaluation and characterization of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have become a major focus of translational cancer research. Presence of CTCs predicts worse clinical outcome in early and metastatic breast cancer. Whether all cells from the primary tumor have potential to disseminate and form subsequent metastasis remains unclear. As part of the metastatic cascade, tumor cells lose their cell-to-cell adhesion and undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in order to enter blood circulation. During EMT epithelial antigens are downregulated; thus, such tumor cells might elude classical epithelial marker-based detection. Several researchers postulated that some CTCs express stem cell-like phenotype; this might lead to chemoresistance and enhanced metastatic potential of such cells. In the present review, we discuss current data on EMT and stem cell markers in CTCs of breast cancer and their clinical significance.
In Vitro Evaluation of Some Types of Ferrimagnetic Glass Ceramics
Authors: Abdel-Hameed S. A. M. , Marzouk M. A. , Elwan R. L.
Published: May 2014

The present study aimed at studying the acceleration of the bioactive layer on the surface of ferrimagnetic glass ceramic with a basic composition 40Fe2O3–15P2O5–20SiO2–5TiO2through the addition of 20% of different types of metal oxides like MgO or CaO or MnO or CuO or ZnO or CeO2. SEM, EDAX, and ICP were applied to present the results of the study. SEM and EDAX measurements indicated the presence of apatite layer formed on the surface of the prepared glass ceramics after immersion in SBF within 7 to 30 days. The investigation of the results clarified that the addition of CaO or ZnO accelerated the formation of apatite on the surfaces of the samples in the simulated body fluid faster than other metal oxides. Inductive coupled plasma (ICP) analysis shows the evolution of ion extraction by the simulated body fluid solution (SBF) with time in relation to the elemental composition.
Wave Front Sets with respect to the Iterates of an Operator with Constant Coefficients
Authors: Boiti C. , Jornet D. , Juan-Huguet J.
Published: May 2014

We introduce the wave front setWF*P(u)with respect to the iterates of a hypoelliptic linear partial differential operator with constant coefficients of a classical distributionu∈𝒟′(Ω)in an open set Ω in the setting of ultradifferentiable classes of Braun, Meise, and Taylor. We state a version of the microlocal regularity theorem of Hörmander for this new type of wave front set and give some examples and applications of the former result.
Platelet Function Tests: A Review of Progresses in Clinical Application
Authors: Choi Jae-Lim , Li Shuhua , Han Jin-Yeong
Published: May 2014

The major goal of traditional platelet function tests has been to screen and diagnose patients who present with bleeding problems. However, as the central role of platelets implicated in the etiology of arterial thrombotic diseases such as myocardial infarction and stroke became widely known, platelet function tests are now being promoted to monitor the efficacy of antiplatelet drugs and also to potentially identify patients at increased risk of thrombosis. Beyond hemostasis and thrombosis, an increasing number of studies indicate that platelets play an integral role in intercellular communication, are mediators of inflammation, and have immunomodulatory activity. As new potential biomarkers and technologies arrive at the horizon, platelet functions testing appears to take on a new aspect. This review article discusses currently available clinical application of platelet function tests, placing emphasis on essential characteristics.
Biomaterials in Cardiovascular Research: Applications and Clinical Implications
Authors: Jaganathan Saravana Kumar , Supriyanto Eko , Murugesan Selvakumar , Balaji Arunpandian , Asokan Manjeesh Kumar
Published: May 2014

Cardiovascular biomaterials (CB) dominate the category of biomaterials based on the demand and investments in this field. This review article classifies the CB into three major classes, namely, metals, polymers, and biological materials and collates the information about the CB. Blood compatibility is one of the major criteria which limit the use of biomaterials for cardiovascular application. Several key players are associated with blood compatibility and they are discussed in this paper. To enhance the compatibility of the CB, several surface modification strategies were in use currently. Some recent applications of surface modification technology on the materials for cardiovascular devices were also discussed for better understanding. Finally, the current trend of the CB, endothelization of the cardiac implants and utilization of induced human pluripotent stem cells (ihPSCs), is also presented in this review. The field of CB is growing constantly and many new investigators and researchers are developing interest in this domain. This review will serve as a one stop arrangement to quickly grasp the basic research in the field of CB.
Analysis of the Forces in Micromilling of Hardened AISI H13 Steel with Different Grain Sizes Using the Taguchi Methodology
Authors: Lauro Carlos Henrique , Brandão Lincoln Cardoso , Ribeiro Filho Sérgio Luiz Moni , Baldo Denison
Published: May 2014

The micromachining process has been applied to the free form and micromolds markets. This has occurred due to the growth in demand for microcomponents. However, micromachining of hardened steels is a challenge due to the reduction in tool life and the increase of the surface roughness when compared with the macromachining process. This paper focused on the analysis of micromilling forces on hardened AISI H13 steel with different grain sizes. Experimental tests were carried out on workpieces with different austenitic grain sizes and a hardness of 46 HRC. Micro-end-mill cutters with a diameter of 0.5 mm and (TiAl)N coatings were applied in the milling of workpieces of 11 × 11 mm. The input parameters were two radial depths of cut, two cutting speeds, and two feed rates. The influence of the input parameters on the response cutting force was analyzed using the Taguchi method. Finally, considering the large grain size, the cutting forces in the x-, y-, and z-axes direction were small.
RNA Viruses: ROS-Mediated Cell Death
Authors: Reshi Mohammad Latif , Su Yi-Che , Hong Jiann-Ruey
Published: May 2014

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are well known for being both beneficial and deleterious. The main thrust of this review is to investigate the role of ROS in ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus pathogenesis. Much evidences has accumulated over the past decade, suggesting that patients infected with RNA viruses are under chronic oxidative stress. Changes to the body’s antioxidant defense system, in relation to SOD, ascorbic acid, selenium, carotenoids, and glutathione, have been reported in various tissues of RNA-virus infected patients. This review focuses on RNA viruses and retroviruses, giving particular attention to the human influenza virus, Hepatitis c virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and the aquatic Betanodavirus. Oxidative stress via RNA virus infections can contribute to several aspects of viral disease pathogenesis including apoptosis, loss of immune function, viral replication, inflammatory response, and loss of body weight. We focus on how ROS production is correlated with host cell death. Moreover, ROS may play an important role as a signal molecule in the regulation of viral replication and organelle function, potentially providing new insights in the prevention and treatment of RNA viruses and retrovirus infections.
Relationship between Secondary Structure and Surface Hydrophobicity of Soybean Protein Isolate Subjected to Heat Treatment
Authors: Wang Zhongjiang , Li Yang , Jiang Lianzhou , Qi Baokun , Zhou Linyi
Published: May 2014

This study investigated relationship between secondary structure and surface hydrophobicity of soy protein isolate (SPI) subjected to a thermal treatment at 70~90°C. Heat denaturation increased the surface hydrophobicity and surface hydrophobicity decreased as aggregate formed. Heat caused an increase in the relative amount ofα-helix structures and an overall decrease in the amount ofβ-sheet structures when compared with nontreated SPI. The relative amounts of secondary structures varied with time, temperature, and intensity of heat treatment applied. Theβ-sheet structure was most important for its significant role in denaturation of 7S globulin and following formed aggregates and even in denaturation of 11S globulin. The amount ofβ-sheet structure in SPI had an inverse correlation with the surface hydrophobicity when the temperature was kept below 90°C. Besides,β-turn structure increased asβ-7S/B-11S aggregate formated.
Stress Hyperglycemia, Insulin Treatment, and Innate Immune Cells
Authors: Xiu Fangming , Stanojcic Mile , Diao Li , Jeschke Marc G.
Published: May 2014

Hyperglycemia (HG) and insulin resistance are the hallmarks of a profoundly altered metabolism in critical illness resulting from the release of cortisol, catecholamines, and cytokines, as well as glucagon and growth hormone. Recent studies have proposed a fundamental role of the immune system towards the development of insulin resistance in traumatic patients. A comprehensive review of published literatures on the effects of hyperglycemia and insulin on innate immunity in critical illness was conducted. This review explored the interaction between the innate immune system and trauma-induced hypermetabolism, while providing greater insight into unraveling the relationship between innate immune cells and hyperglycemia. Critical illness substantially disturbs glucose metabolism resulting in a state of hyperglycemia. Alterations in glucose and insulin regulation affect the immune function of cellular components comprising the innate immunity system. Innate immune system dysfunction via hyperglycemia is associated with a higher morbidity and mortality in critical illness. Along with others, we hypothesize that reduction in morbidity and mortality observed in patients receiving insulin treatment is partially due to its effect on the attenuation of the immune response. However, there still remains substantial controversy regarding moderate versus intensive insulin treatment. Future studies need to determine the integrated effects of HG and insulin on the regulation of innate immunity in order to provide more effective insulin treatment regimen for these patients.
Characterization of the Opp Peptide Transporter ofCorynebacterium pseudotuberculosisand Its Role in Virulence and Pathogenicity
Authors: Moraes Pablo M. R. O. , Seyffert Nubia , Silva Wanderson M. , Castro Thiago L. P. , Silva Renata F. , Lima Danielle D. , Hirata Raphael , Silva Artur , Miyoshi Anderson , Azevedo Vasco
Published: May 2014

Despite the economic importance of caseous lymphadenitis (CLA), a chronic disease caused byCorynebacterium pseudotuberculosis, few genes related to the virulence of its etiologic agent have been characterized. The oligopeptide permease (Opp) transporters are located in the plasma membrane and have functions generally related to the uptake of peptides from the extracellular environment. These peptide transporters, in addition to having an important role in cell nutrition, also participate in the regulation of various processes involving intercellular signaling, including the control of the expression of virulence genes in pathogenic bacteria. To study the role of Opp inC. pseudotuberculosis, an OppD deficient strain was constructed via simple crossover with a nonreplicative plasmid carrying part of theoppDgene sequence. As occurred to the wild-type, the ΔoppDstrain showed impaired growth when exposed to the toxic glutathione peptide (GSH), indicating two possible scenarios: (i) that this component can be internalized by the bacterium through an Opp-independent pathway or (ii) that there is toxicity while the peptide is extracellular. Additionally, the ΔoppDmutant presented a reduced ability to adhere to and infect macrophages compared to the wild-type, although both strains exhibit the same potential to colonize spleens and cause injury and death to infected mice.