bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of a Variable-Interference Filter (VIF) for Compact High Resolution Wavelength Detectors
Authors: da Silva C. M. , Sayão A. C. , da Silva D. F. , Silva T. F. , Onmori R. K.
Published: October 2012

A high-resolution and compact wavelength detector capable of resolving very small changes in the spectral information of the incident light is highly desirable for many applications such as Lab-on-Chip systems, biosensors, chip-sized detectors, on-chip fluorescence spectrometry, wavelength shift detectors, interrogations system, etc. In this work we present the simulation and design of a variable interference filter (VIF) constituted by a wedge-shaped Fabry-Perot cavity placed in between two stacks of thin films, forming dielectric reflectors. This device constitutes an optical filter that converts the spectral information in a position dependent signal that can be measured by a photo detector, a PDA or a CCD. We have investigated the performance of the designed VIF depending on its optical properties in order to optimize its geometrical configuration. With the results obtained we intend to fabricate a multi-channel spectral detector that can be used in environmental analysis.
Study of an Asymmetric Capacitive Discharge in Oxygen with Global Model and Langmuir Probe
Authors: Parada S.W. C. , Pessoa R. S. , Roberto M. , Petraconi G.
Published: October 2012

In this work an oxygen asymmetric capacitive radio frequency discharge was investigated with numerical global model and Langmuir Probe to evaluate the behavior of the electron density (ne) and the electron temperature (Te) as a function of input power and gas pressure. The experimental Langmuir probe measurements show that Te increases for pressures below 30 mTorr, which corresponds to low ne, as usual for Reactive Ion Etching type reactor. Moreover, the experimental and simulated electron temperature are in good agreement for gas pressure values above 25 mTorr, because in this case the electron energy distribution function (EEDF) is Maxwellian, according to assumption made in the global model, for the rate coefficient calculation. For electron density the discrepancy is higher for all pressure range, probably because the effect of secondary electron emission that is not considered in our global model simulations.
Investigation of Thermal Stability of Titanium Nitride Using A RTA Process
Authors: Cioldin F. H. , Lima L.P. B. , Doi I. , Diniz J. A. , Godoy Filho J. , Zambotti E. A.
Published: October 2012

Titanium nitride (TiN) thin films were obtained by reactive DC Magnetron Sputtering on Silicon substrate. The samples were annealed in a Rapid Thermal Process furnace with the temperature ranging from 650°C to 1050°C. Before and after the annealing process were extracted the resistivity using a four-probe technique, EDS (Electron Dispersion Spectroscopy), AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy), Raman Scattering and XSEM (Scanning Electron Microscope). As deposited samples of the TiN films revealed a resistivity of 270 μΩ.cm while those annealed varied from 350 μΩ.cm to 420 μΩ.cm. Due the results, it is possible that occurred an oxygen incorporation, resulting in an increase of roughness, resistivity and a concentration peak in EDS spectra.
Surface Acoustic Wave Humidity Sensors Based on Graphene Oxide Thin Films Deposited with the Surface Acoustic Wave Atomizer
Authors: Balashov S. M. , Balachova O. V. , Filho Aristides Pavani , Bazetto Maria Cecília Q. , de Almeida M. G.
Published: October 2012

Submicron-thick films of graphene oxide and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) were deposited onto the surface of 160 MHz quartz surface acoustic wave (SAW) delay lines, and manufactured devices were used as humidity sensors. Films were obtained by consecutive atomization of 0.35 μl droplets of 0.33 mg/ml graphene oxide water suspension or 5.00 mg/ml PVA water solution using 25 MHz SAW atomizers. During measurements authors did not observe additional attenuation of the surface acoustic wave propagating along the surface of the sensors, which confirms that deposited films have low thickness and good uniformity. It was shown that SAW quartz humidity sensors with graphene oxide films, PVA thin films and uncoated surface have sensitivity of 1.54 kHz/%RH, 0.47 kHz/%RH and 0.13 kHz/%RH respectively. Sensors with graphene oxide thin films showed the best sensitivity and dynamic response. It was concluded that they can be used as sensitive coatings in humidity sensors for industrial environment.
The MOS Device Applied to Hydrogenated Gas Sensor Device
Authors: Magalhães F. B. , Braga M. S. , Ramirez-Fernandez F. J. , Salcedo Walter Jaimes
Published: October 2012

The present work reports the MOS (metal/semiconductor/oxide) device application as a gas sensor to H2 and NH3 detection. For this propose we used the C x V curve behavior to study the sensor response by using the change of flat band voltage or capacitance near to flat band state. The sensor showed a nonlinear response as a function of H2 concentration with high sensibility at low gas concentration and low sensibility at high gas concentration. The chemical image response of sensor was obtained by scanning pulse light of small beam on the gate region area. The chemical images pointed out that the sensor response strongly depends on the carrier gas used in the experimental assay.The chemical images patter corresponding to H2 and NH3 didn’t showed significant differences however theirs intensities were clearly different. These results were discussed in the present work.
Spacer Length and Tilt Implantation Influence on Scaled UTBOX FD MOSFETs
Authors: Santos S. D. , Nicoletti T. , Aoulaiche M. , Martino J. A. , Veloso A. , Jurczak M. , Simoen E. , Claeys C.
Published: October 2012

Fully Depleted (FD) MOSFETs on Ultra-Thin Buried Oxide (UTBOX) are studied in this paper based on the main digital/analog parameters, by focusing on experimental results. Higher spacer lengths show decreased short channel effects and superior analog performance compared to the standard S/D junction devices with LDD. However, for smaller spacer lengths the underlap formation is suppressed by the lateral diffusion of dopant. The same trend is exhibited by tilt-implanted devices, where the different implantation angle favors the dopant diffusion into the underlap region and the channel, degrading the transistor performances.
Fabrication, Characterization and Simulation of PTFT Inverters Using F8T2 as Active Layer
Authors: Ávila M. F. , Reséndiz L. , Estrada M.
Published: October 2012

The copolymer Poly(9,9-dioctylFluorene-co-BiTthiophene) (F8T2) have been used as organic semiconductor for the fabrication of Polymeric p-type Thin-Film Transistors (PTFT’s), which can show high on/off ratio in the transfer characteristics. In this manuscript, we fabricate and characterize polymeric Active Saturated Load Inverter (ASLI), using Poly (Methyl MethAcrylate) (PMMA) as the dielectric film and F8T2 as the active semiconductor. Simulation of the inverters was done using SmartSpice where a compact model previously developed by us was included. We show that, although PTFTs using F8T2 present non-ohmic resistance at the drain and source, they can be satisfactorily used as ASLI. We also validate that Spice simulations, using the Unified Model and Extraction Method (UMEM) can be used for the design of polymeric circuits.
Three-Dimensional Acoustic Metamaterial with Localized Resonances
Authors: Champi H.A. A. , Bustamante R. H. , Salcedo W. J.
Published: October 2012

A three-dimensional acoustic negative refractive index metamaterial based on the idea of localized resonant structures is designed in the long-wavelength limit. Such behavior results from the double negativity of the effective constitutive parameters, bulk modulus and mass density, in a limited frequency range. This acoustic metamaterial is composed of balloon-contained water spheres (BLWSs) and hard rubber-coated lead spheres (HRLSs) embedded in epoxy matrix. Dispersion relation calculations by using the effective parameters, shows a negative dispersion band related to the negative refractive index for longitudinal waves. The physical realization of such metamaterial for acoustic waves could lead to many unusual applications as in the case of electromagnetism, including the manufacturing of an acoustic cloaking device.
Arachidonic acid supplementation enhances in vitro skeletal muscle cell growth via a COX-2-dependent pathway
Authors: Markworth James F. , Cameron-Smith David
Published: October 2012

Arachidonic acid (AA) is the metabolic precursor to a diverse range of downstream bioactive lipid mediators. A positive or negative influence of individual eicosanoid species [e.g., prostaglandins (PGs), leukotrienes, and hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids] has been implicated in skeletal muscle cell growth and development. The collective role of AA-derived metabolites in physiological states of skeletal muscle growth/atrophy remains unclear. The present study aimed to determine the direct effect of free AA supplementation and subsequent eicosanoid biosynthesis on skeletal myocyte growth in vitro . C2C12 (mouse) skeletal myocytes induced to differentiate with supplemental AA exhibited dose-dependent increases in the size, myonuclear content, and protein accretion of developing myotubes, independent of changes in cell density or the rate/extent of myogenic differentiation. Nonselective (indomethacin) or cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2)-selective (NS-398) nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs blunted basal myogenesis, an effect that was amplified in the presence of supplemental free AA substrate. The stimulatory effects of AA persisted in preexisting myotubes via a COX-2-dependent (NS-389-sensitive) pathway, specifically implying dependency on downstream PG biosynthesis. AA-stimulated growth was associated with markedly increased secretion of PGF2α and PGE2; however, incubation of myocytes with PG-rich conditioned medium failed to mimic the effects of direct AA supplementation. In vitro AA supplementation stimulates PG release and skeletal muscle cell hypertrophy via a COX-2-dependent pathway.
Reliable evaluation of the quantal determinants of synaptic efficacy using Bayesian analysis
Authors: Bhumbra G. S. , Beato M.
Published: October 2012

Communication between neurones in the central nervous system depends on synaptic transmission. The efficacy of synapses is determined by pre- and postsynaptic factors that can be characterized using quantal parameters such as the probability of neurotransmitter release, number of release sites, and quantal size. Existing methods of estimating the quantal parameters based on multiple probability fluctuation analysis (MPFA) are limited by their requirement for long recordings to acquire substantial data sets. We therefore devised an algorithm, termed Bayesian Quantal Analysis (BQA), that can yield accurate estimates of the quantal parameters from data sets of as small a size as 60 observations for each of only 2 conditions of release probability. Computer simulations are used to compare its performance in accuracy with that of MPFA, while varying the number of observations and the simulated range in release probability. We challenge BQA with realistic complexities characteristic of complex synapses, such as increases in the intra- or intersite variances, and heterogeneity in release probabilities. Finally, we validate the method using experimental data obtained from electrophysiological recordings to show that the effect of an antagonist on postsynaptic receptors is correctly characterized by BQA by a specific reduction in the estimates of quantal size. Since BQA routinely yields reliable estimates of the quantal parameters from small data sets, it is ideally suited to identify the locus of synaptic plasticity for experiments in which repeated manipulations of the recording environment are unfeasible.
Distinct Initial SNARE Configurations Underlying the Diversity of Exocytosis
Authors: Kasai Haruo , Takahashi Noriko , Tokumaru Hiroshi
Published: October 2012

The dynamics of exocytosis are diverse and have been optimized for the functions of synapses and a wide variety of cell types. For example, the kinetics of exocytosis varies by more than five orders of magnitude between ultrafast exocytosis in synaptic vesicles and slow exocytosis in large dense-core vesicles. However, in all cases, exocytosis is mediated by the same fundamental mechanism, i.e., the assembly of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins. It is often assumed that vesicles need to be docked at the plasma membrane and SNARE proteins must be preassembled before exocytosis is triggered. However, this model cannot account for the dynamics of exocytosis recently reported in synapses and other cells. For example, vesicles undergo exocytosis without prestimulus docking during tonic exocytosis of synaptic vesicles in the active zone. In addition, epithelial and hematopoietic cells utilize cAMP and kinases to trigger slow exocytosis of nondocked vesicles. In this review, we summarize the manner in which the diversity of exocytosis reflects the initial configurations of SNARE assembly, including trans-SNARE, binary-SNARE, unitary-SNARE, and cis-SNARE configurations. The initial SNARE configurations depend on the particular SNARE subtype (syntaxin, SNAP25, or VAMP), priming proteins (Munc18, Munc13, CAPS, complexin, or snapin), triggering proteins (synaptotagmins, Doc2, and various protein kinases), and the submembraneous cytomatrix, and they are the key to determining the kinetics of subsequent exocytosis. These distinct initial configurations will help us clarify the common SNARE assembly processes underlying exocytosis and membrane trafficking in eukaryotic cells.
Ion Channels in Plants
Authors: Hedrich Rainer
Published: October 2012

Since the first recordings of single potassium channel activities in the plasma membrane of guard cells more than 25 years ago, patch-clamp studies discovered a variety of ion channels in all cell types and plant species under inspection. Their properties differed in a cell type- and cell membrane-dependent manner. Guard cells, for which the existence of plant potassium channels was initially documented, advanced to a versatile model system for studying plant ion channel structure, function, and physiology. Interestingly, one of the first identified potassium-channel genes encoding the Shaker-type channel KAT1 was shown to be highly expressed in guard cells. KAT1-type channels from Arabidopsis thaliana and its homologs from other species were found to encode the K+-selective inward rectifiers that had already been recorded in early patch-clamp studies with guard cells. Within the genome era, additional Arabidopsis Shaker-type channels appeared. All nine members of the Arabidopsis Shaker family are localized at the plasma membrane, where they either operate as inward rectifiers, outward rectifiers, weak voltage-dependent channels, or electrically silent, but modulatory subunits. The vacuole membrane, in contrast, harbors a set of two-pore K+channels. Just very recently, two plant anion channel families of the SLAC/SLAH and ALMT/QUAC type were identified. SLAC1/SLAH3 and QUAC1 are expressed in guard cells and mediate Slow- and Rapid-type anion currents, respectively, that are involved in volume and turgor regulation. Anion channels in guard cells and other plant cells are key targets within often complex signaling networks. Here, the present knowledge is reviewed for the plant ion channel biology. Special emphasis is drawn to the molecular mechanisms of channel regulation, in the context of model systems and in the light of evolution.
Stem Cell Factor Receptor/c-Kit: From Basic Science to Clinical Implications
Authors: Lennartsson Johan , Rönnstrand Lars
Published: October 2012

Stem cell factor (SCF) is a dimeric molecule that exerts its biological functions by binding to and activating the receptor tyrosine kinase c-Kit. Activation of c-Kit leads to its autophosphorylation and initiation of signal transduction. Signaling proteins are recruited to activated c-Kit by certain interaction domains (e.g., SH2 and PTB) that specifically bind to phosphorylated tyrosine residues in the intracellular region of c-Kit. Activation of c-Kit signaling has been found to mediate cell survival, migration, and proliferation depending on the cell type. Signaling from c-Kit is crucial for normal hematopoiesis, pigmentation, fertility, gut movement, and some aspects of the nervous system. Deregulated c-Kit kinase activity has been found in a number of pathological conditions, including cancer and allergy. The observation that gain-of-function mutations in c-Kit can promote tumor formation and progression has stimulated the development of therapeutics agents targeting this receptor, e.g., the clinically used inhibitor imatinib mesylate. Also other clinically used multiselective kinase inhibitors, for instance, sorafenib and sunitinib, have c-Kit included in their range of targets. Furthermore, loss-of-function mutations in c-Kit have been observed and shown to give rise to a condition called piebaldism. This review provides a summary of our current knowledge regarding structural and functional aspects of c-Kit signaling both under normal and pathological conditions, as well as advances in the development of low-molecular-weight molecules inhibiting c-Kit function.
The Proprioceptive Senses: Their Roles in Signaling Body Shape, Body Position and Movement, and Muscle Force
Authors: Proske Uwe , Gandevia Simon C.
Published: October 2012

This is a review of the proprioceptive senses generated as a result of our own actions. They include the senses of position and movement of our limbs and trunk, the sense of effort, the sense of force, and the sense of heaviness. Receptors involved in proprioception are located in skin, muscles, and joints. Information about limb position and movement is not generated by individual receptors, but by populations of afferents. Afferent signals generated during a movement are processed to code for endpoint position of a limb. The afferent input is referred to a central body map to determine the location of the limbs in space. Experimental phantom limbs, produced by blocking peripheral nerves, have shown that motor areas in the brain are able to generate conscious sensations of limb displacement and movement in the absence of any sensory input. In the normal limb tendon organs and possibly also muscle spindles contribute to the senses of force and heaviness. Exercise can disturb proprioception, and this has implications for musculoskeletal injuries. Proprioceptive senses, particularly of limb position and movement, deteriorate with age and are associated with an increased risk of falls in the elderly. The more recent information available on proprioception has given a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying these senses as well as providing new insight into a range of clinical conditions.
A DHT-Based Discovery Service for the Internet of Things
Authors: Paganelli Federica , Parlanti David
Published: October 2012

Current trends towards the Future Internet are envisaging the conception of novel services endowed with context-aware and autonomic capabilities to improve end users’ quality of life. The Internet of Things paradigm is expected to contribute towards this ambitious vision by proposing models and mechanisms enabling the creation of networks of “smart things” on a large scale. It is widely recognized that efficient mechanisms for discovering available resources and capabilities are required to realize such vision. The contribution of this work consists in a novel discovery service for the Internet of Things. The proposed solution adopts a peer-to-peer approach for guaranteeing scalability, robustness, and easy maintenance of the overall system. While most existing peer-to-peer discovery services proposed for the IoT support solely exact match queries on a single attribute (i.e., the object identifier), our solution can handle multiattribute and range queries. We defined a layered approach by distinguishing three main aspects: multiattribute indexing, range query support, peer-to-peer routing. We chose to adopt an over-DHT indexing scheme to guarantee ease of design and implementation principles. We report on the implementation of a Proof of Concept in a dangerous goods monitoring scenario, and, finally, we discuss test results for structural properties and query performance evaluation.
Improving the Safety of Tolerance Induction: Chimerism and Cellular Co-Treatment Strategies Applied to Vascularized Composite Allografts
Authors: Huang Wei-Chao , Lin Jeng-Yee , Wallace Christopher Glenn , Wei Fu-Chan , Liao Shuen-Kuei
Published: October 2012

Although vascularized composite allografts (VCAs) have been performed clinically for a variety of indications, potential complications from long-term immunosuppression and graft-versus-host disease remain important barriers to widespread applications. Recently it has been demonstrated that VCAs incorporating a vascularized long bone in a rat model provide concurrent vascularized bone marrow transplantation that, itself, functions to establish hematopoietic chimerism and donor-specific tolerance following non-myeloablative conditioning of recipients. Advances such as this, which aim to improve the safety profile of tolerance induction, will help usher in an era of wider clinical VCA application for nonlife-saving reconstructions.
A Warning Index Used in Prescreening for Alzheimer’s Disease, Based on Self-Reported Cognitive Deficits and Vascular Risk Factors for Dementia in Elderly Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Matsuzawa Toshioki , Takata Toshihiro , Yokono Koichi , Ueda Hiroo , Moriwaki Kensuke , Kamae Isao , Urakami Katsuya , Sakurai Takashi
Published: October 2012

Background/Aims. Diabetes might increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). For detecting dementia, it is typical to obtain informants’ perceptions of cognitive deficits, but such interviews are usually difficult in routine care. We aimed to develop a model for predicting mild to moderate AD using a self-reported questionnaire and by evaluating vascular risk factors for dementia in elderly subjects with diabetes.Methods. We recruited 286 diabetic and 155 nondiabetic elderly subjects. There were 25 patients with AD and 261 cognitively normal individuals versus 30 with AD and 125 normal subjects, respectively. Each participant answered subjective questions on memory deficits and daily functioning. Information on vascular risk factors was obtained from clinical charts, and multivariate logistic regression was used to develop a model for predicting AD.Results. The predicted probabilities used in screening for AD in diabetic subjects constituted age, education, lower diastolic blood pressure, subjective complaints of memory dysfunction noticeable by others, and impaired medication, shopping, and travel outside a familiar locality. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed a satisfactory discrimination for AD specific for diabetic elderly subjects, with 95.2% sensitivity and 90.6% specificity.Conclusion. This is the first useful index that can prescreen for AD in elderly subjects with diabetes.
Strain-Based Evaluation of a Steel Through-Girder Railroad Bridge
Authors: Daumueller Andrew N. , Jáuregui David V.
Published: October 2012

In the state of New Mexico (USA), passenger rail began in 2008 between Belen and Santa Fe on the Rail Runner, following the acquisition of about 100 miles of existing rail and related infrastructure. Many of the bridges on this route are over 100 years old and contain fatigue prone details. This study focuses on a steel through-girder bridge along this corridor. To accurately evaluate these structures for load carrying capacity and fatigue, an accurate analytical model is required. Accordingly, four models were developed to study the sensitivity of a bridge in New Mexico to floor-system connection fixity and the ballast. A diagnostic load test was also performed to evaluate the accuracy of the finite-element models at locations of maximum moments. Comparisons between the simulated and measured bridge response were made based on strain profiles, peak strains, and Palmgren-Miner’s sums. It was found that the models including the ballast were most accurate. In most cases, the pinned ended models were closer to the measured strains. The floor beams and girders were relatively insensitive to the ballast and end conditions of the floor-system members, whereas the stringers were sensitive to the modeling of the ballast.
Metastasizing Pleomorphic Adenoma: A Fascinating Enigma
Authors: Santaliz-Ruiz Luis E. IV , Morales Gary , Santini Héctor , Sánchez-Santiago María , Arroyo Axel
Published: October 2012

Among salivary gland neoplasms, metastasizing pleomorphic adenoma (MPA) constitutes an extremely rare group of tumors. The present paper reports a case of pleomorphic adenoma (PA) in submandibular gland that, after more than 30 years of initial treatment, recurred and metastasized to ipsilateral neck lymph nodes and parotid gland. In an attempt to elucidate the malignant behavior of metastasizing pleomorphic adenoma, we performed Ki-67, p53, p16, and bcl-2 immunohistochemistry staining of our case sample. Many immunohistochemistry staining studies have been done on malignant salivary gland tumors. However, to the best of our knowledge no immunohistochemistry staining of the aforementioned markers has been previously performed on metastasizing pleomorphic adenoma.
Two Different Isomers of Vitamin E Prevent Bone Loss in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis Rat Model
Authors: Muhammad Norliza , Luke Douglas Alwyn , Shuid Ahmad Nazrun , Mohamed Norazlina , Soelaiman Ima-Nirwana
Published: October 2012

Postmenopausal osteoporotic bone loss occurs mainly due to cessation of ovarian function, a condition associated with increased free radicals. Vitamin E, a lipid-soluble vitamin, is a potent antioxidant which can scavenge free radicals in the body. In this study, we investigated the effects of alpha-tocopherol and pure tocotrienol on bone microarchitecture and cellular parameters in ovariectomized rats. Three-month-old female Wistar rats were randomly divided into ovariectomized control, sham-operated, and ovariectomized rats treated with either alpha-tocopherol or tocotrienol. Their femurs were taken at the end of the four-week study period for bone histomorphometric analysis. Ovariectomy causes bone loss in the control group as shown by reduction in both trabecular volume (BV/TV) and trabecular number (Tb.N) and an increase in trabecular separation (Tb.S). The increase in osteoclast surface (Oc.S) and osteoblast surface (Ob.S) in ovariectomy indicates an increase in bone turnover rate. Treatment with either alpha-tocopherol or tocotrienol prevents the reduction in BV/TV and Tb.N as well as the increase in Tb.S, while reducing the Oc.S and increasing the Ob.S. In conclusion, the two forms of vitamin E were able to prevent bone loss due to ovariectomy. Both tocotrienol and alpha-tocopherol exert similar effects in preserving bone microarchitecture in estrogen-deficient rat model.
Primary School Age Students' Spontaneous Comments about Math Reveal Emerging Dispositions Linked to Later Mathematics Achievement
Authors: Mazzocco Michèle M. M. , Hanich Laurie B. , Noeder Maia M.
Published: October 2012

To longitudinally explore children's developing beliefs towards mathematics, we asked 207 children to define “math” and “reading” at grades 2 and 3 and coded for spontaneous references to likability or difficulty of math (or reading) in their definitions. We found that children attributed more difficulty to math than to reading despite their relatively neutral comments on the likability of either subject. Children described math and reading with comparable degrees of specificity, but girls' definitions were more specific than boys'. Relative to their peers, children with mathematics learning disability (MLD) provided less specific definitions overall, were more likely to describe math as more difficult than reading, and were more likely to show a decrease in likability ratings of math (but not reading) from grades 2 to 3. Grade 2 ratings predicted math ability at grade 3, more so than predictors from grade 3. These findings, although based on informal analyses not intended to substitute for validated assessments of disposition, support the notions that distinct aspects of dispositions towards math emerge in early childhood, are revealed through casual discourse, and are predictive of later math achievement outcomes. This further supports current interests in developing formal measures of academic disposition in early childhood.
The Solution of a Class of Third‐Order Boundary Value Problems by the Reproducing Kernel Method
Authors: Li Zhiyuan , Wang Yulan , Tan Fugui
Published: October 2012

This paper expands the application of reproducing kernel method to a class of third‐order
boundary value problems with mixed nonlinear boundary conditions. The analytical solution is represented in the form of series in the reproducing kernel space. The n‐term approximation is obtained and
is proved to converge to the analytical solution. The numerical examples are given to demonstrate the
computation efficiency of the presented method. Results obtained by the method indicate that the method is
simple and effective.
Brillouin Distributed Fiber Sensors: An Overview and Applications
Authors: Galindez-Jamioy C. A. , López-Higuera J. M.
Published: October 2012

A review focused on real world applications of Brillouin distributed fiber sensors is presented in this paper. After a brief overview of the theoretical principles, some works to face the two main technical challenges (large dynamic range and higher spatial resolution) are commented. Then an overview of some real and on-field applications is done.
Redundancy as a Graph-Based Index of Frequency Specific MEG Functional Connectivity
Authors: Di Lanzo Claudia , Marzetti Laura , Zappasodi Filippo , De Vico Fallani Fabrizio , Pizzella Vittorio
Published: October 2012

We used a recently proposed graph index to investigate connectivity redundancy in resting state MEG recordings. Usually, brain network analyses consider indexes linked to the shortest paths between cerebral regions. However, important information might be lost about alternative trails by neglecting longer pathways. We measured the redundancy of the connectivity by considering the multiple paths at the global level (i.e., scalar redundancy), across different path lengths (i.e., vector redundancy), and between node pairs (i.e., matrix redundancy). We applied this approach to a robust frequency domain functional connectivity measure, the corrected imaginary part of coherence. The redundancy in the MEG networks, for each frequency band, was significantly (P<0.05) higher than in the random graphs, thus, confirming a natural tendency of the brain to present multiple interaction pathways between different specialized areas. Notably, this difference was more evident and localized among the channels covering the parietooccipital areas in the alpha range of MEG oscillations (7.5–13 Hz), as expected in the resting state conditions. Interestingly enough, the results obtained with the redundancy indexes were poorly correlated with those obtained using shortest paths only, and more sensitive with respect to those obtained by considering walk-based indexes.
Effect of Construction Method on Shear Lag in Prestressed Concrete Box Girders
Authors: Zhou Shi-Jun
Published: October 2012

Most of the previous researches conducted on shear lag of box girders were only concerned about simple types of structures, such as simply supported and cantilever beams. The structural systems concerned in these previous researches were considered as determined and unchangeable. In this paper, a finite element method considering shear lag and creep of concrete was presented to analyze the effect of dynamic construction process on shear lag in different types of concrete box‐girder bridges. The shear lag effect of the three types of a two‐span continuous concrete beam classified by construction methods was analyzed in detail according to construction process. Also, a three‐span prestressed concrete box‐girder bridge was analyzed according to the actual construction process. The shear lag coefficients and stresses on cross sections along the beam including shear lag were obtained. The different construction methods, the changes of structural system with the construction process, the changes of loading and boundary conditions with the construction process and time, the prestressing, and creep were all imitated in the calculations. From comparisons between the results for beams using different construction methods, useful conclusions were made.
Dual-Beam Antenna Design for Autonomous Sensor Network Applications
Authors: Floc'h Jean-Marie , El Sayed Ahmad Ahmad , Kokar Yvan
Published: October 2012

This paper describes our contribution in the ANR project called CAPNET dedicated to the site security (autonomous sensor network). The network is autonomous in term of energy and it is very easy to deploy on the site (the time to deploy each node of the network is around 10 minutes). The first demonstrator was deployed in the fire base station of Brest, France with 10 nodes with a security perimeter around 1.5 km. Our contribution takes place in the field of antennas, with the development of two systems: a single-beam antenna reserved for the supervisor or the last node of the network, and a dual-beam antenna dedicated to the node in linear configuration. For the design and optimization of antennas, we use HFSS CAD software from ANSOFT. The antennas have been designed and successfully measured.
Is IgG4-Related Disease a Cause of Xerostomia? A Cohort Study of 60 Patients
Authors: Hermet M. , André M. , Kémény J. L. , Le Guenno G. , Déchelotte P. , Guettrot-Imbert G. , Tridon A. , Delèvaux I. , Soubrier M. , Aumaître O.
Published: October 2012

Objective. Immunoglobulin-G4-(IgG4-) related disease (IgG4 RD) is a fibrosing process characterized by a significant infiltration of IgG4-secreting plasma cells. IgG4 RD can affect almost all organs including salivary glands. Whether IgG4 RD plays a role in the development of sicca syndrome and particularly dry mouth syndrome remains to be investigated.Methods. We conducted a monocentric cohort study for two years to search for IgG4 RD features in patients with dry mouth syndrome using immunostainings of labial salivary gland specimens with anti-IgG4 antibody.Results. Among 60 patients presenting with dry mouth syndrome who underwent labial salivary gland biopsy, 18 showed positive immunostaining with the anti-IgG4 antibody including 4 patients with typical systemic IgG4 RD. Five also fulfilled criteria for Sjögren's syndrome.Conclusion. These findings suggest that clinical forms of IgG4 RD salivary involvement without salivary swelling may occur. This salivary involvement is probably overlooked in everyday practice and could represent a mild form of IgG4 RD.
Initiation and Regulation of Complement during Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions
Authors: Stowell Sean R. , Winkler Anne M. , Maier Cheryl L. , Arthur C. Maridith , Smith Nicole H. , Girard-Pierce Kathryn R. , Cummings Richard D. , Zimring James C. , Hendrickson Jeanne E.
Published: October 2012

Hemolytic transfusion reactions represent one of the most common causes of transfusion-related mortality. Although many factors influence hemolytic transfusion reactions, complement activation represents one of the most common features associated with fatality. In this paper we will focus on the role of complement in initiating and regulating hemolytic transfusion reactions and will discuss potential strategies aimed at mitigating or favorably modulating complement during incompatible red blood cell transfusions.
Chitosan‐Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles with Low Chitosan Content Prepared in One‐Step
Authors: Osuna Yolanda , Gregorio-Jauregui Karla M. , Gaona-Lozano J. Gerardo , de la Garza-Rodríguez Iliana M. , Ilyna Anna , Barriga-Castro Enrique Díaz , Saade Hened , López Raúl G.
Published: October 2012

Chitosan‐coated magnetic nanoparticles (CMNP) were obtained at 50°C in a one‐step method comprising coprecipitation in the presence of low chitosan content. CMNP showed high magnetization and superparamagnetism. They were composed of a core of 9.5 nm in average diameter and a very thin chitosan layer in accordance with electron microscopy measurements. The results from Fourier transform infrared spectrometry demonstrated that CMNP were obtained and those from thermogravimetric analysis allowed to determine that they were composed of 95 wt% of magnetic nanoparticles and 5 wt% of chitosan. 67% efficacy in the Pb+2 removal test indicated that only 60% of amino groups on CMNP surface bound to Pb, probably due to some degree of nanoparticle flocculation during the redispersion. The very low weight ratio chitosan to magnetic nanoparticles obtained in this study, 0.053, and the high yield of the precipitation reactions (≈97%) are noticeable.
Nonlinear Bayesian Tracking Loops for Multipath Mitigation
Authors: Closas Pau , Fernández-Prades Carles , Diez José , de Castro David
Published: October 2012

This paper studies Bayesian filtering techniques applied to the design of advanced delay tracking loops in GNSS receivers with multipath mitigation capabilities. The analysis includes tradeoff among realistic propagation channel models and the use of a realistic simulation framework. After establishing the mathematical framework for the design and analysis of tracking loops in the context of GNSS receivers, we propose a filtering technique that implements Rao-Blackwellization of linear states and a particle filter for the nonlinear partition and compare it to traditional delay lock loop/phase lock loop-based schemes.
Theoretic and Experimental Studies on the Casting of Large Die-Type Parts Made of Lamellar Graphite Grey Pig Irons by Using the Technology of Polystyrene Moulds Casting from Two Sprue Cups
Authors: Marta Constantin , Ruja Ioan , Lupinca Cinca Ionel , Rosu Monica
Published: October 2012

This paper presents a comparative analysis between the practical results of pig iron die-type part casting and the results reached by simulation. The insert was made of polystyrene, and the casting was downward vertical. As after the part casting and heat treatment cracks were observed in the part, it became necessary to locate and identify these fissures and to establish some measures for eliminating the casting defects and for locating them. The research method was the comparisons of defects identified through verifications, measurements, and metallographic analyses applied to the cast part with the results of some criteria specific to simulation after simulating the casting process. In order to verify the compatibility between reality and simulation, we then simulated the part casting respecting the real conditions in which it was cast. By visualising certain sections of the cast part during solidification, relevant details occur about the possible evolution of defects. The simulation software was AnyCasting, the measurements were done through nondestructive methods.
Nucleating Effect of Carbon Nanoparticles and Their Influence on the Thermal and Chemical Stability of Polypropylene
Authors: Avalos-Belmontes F. , Ramos-deValle L. F. , Ramírez-Vargas E. , Sánchez-Valdes S. , Méndez-Nonel J. , Zitzumbo-Guzmán R.
Published: October 2012

The effect of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the thermal and chemical stability of polypropylene (PP) when subjected to oxidation in a strong acid medium was studied. The effect of CNFs and CNTs on the crystalline morphology and the melting and crystallization temperatures was also studied. The thermal stability increased markedly; the decomposition temperature, for example, increased from 293∘C for pure PP to 312 and 320∘C for PP with CNFs and CNTs, respectively. The crystallization temperature increased perceptibly with the addition of CNTs or CNFs, from 107∘C for pure PP to 112 and 114∘C for PP with CNFs and CNTs, respectively. The oxidative degradation with nitric acid produced a reduction in molecular weight; however, this negative effect was less pronounced in the PP compositions with carbon nanoparticles. After 8 hours in nitric acid, this reduction was from 141,000 to 68,000 (for pure PP), to 75,000 (for PP‐CNFs), and 79,500 (for PP‐CNTs). X‐ray diffraction showed that the alpha type crystallinity remains, irrespective of the nucleating agent. Finally, the intensity ratio between the (040) (at 16.7∘) and the (110) (at 13.9∘) reflections increased, which was taken as an indication of an increasing nucleating efficiency.
Effect of Ezetimibe on Insulin Secretion in db/db Diabetic Mice
Authors: Zhong Yong , Wang Jun , Gu Ping , Shao Jiaqing , Lu Bin , Jiang Shisen
Published: October 2012

Objective. To investigate the effect of ezetimibe on the insulin secretion in db/db mice.Methods. The db/db diabetic mice aged 8 weeks were randomly assigned into 2 groups and intragastrically treated with ezetimibe or placebo for 6 weeks. The age matched db/m mice served as controls. At the end of experiment, glucose tolerance test was performed and then the pancreas was collected for immunohistochemistry. In addition, in vitro perfusion of pancreatic islets was employed for the detection of insulin secretion in the first phase.Results. In the ezetimibe group, the fasting blood glucose was markedly reduced, and the total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were significantly lowered when compared with those in the control group (P<0.05). At 120 min after glucose tolerance test, the area under curve in the ezetimibe group was significantly smaller than that in the control group (P<0.05), but theAUCINS0−30was markedly higher. In vitro perfusion of pancreatic islets revealed the first phase insulin secretion was improved. In addition, the insulin expression in the pancreas in the ezetimibe group was significantly increased as compared to the control group.Conclusion. Ezetimibe can improve glucose tolerance, recover the first phase insulin secretion, and protect the function ofβcells in mice.
Power Increasing Sequences and Their Some New Applications
Authors: Bor Hüseyin
Published: October 2012

In the work of Bor (2008), we have proved a result dealing
with summability factors by using a quasi‐β‐power increasing sequence. In this paper, we prove that result under less and more weaker conditions. Some new results
have also been obtained.
Signal-BNF: A Bayesian Network Fusing Approach to Predict Signal Peptides
Authors: Zheng Zhi , Chen Youying , Chen Liping , Guo Gongde , Fan Yongxian , Kong Xiangzeng
Published: October 2012

A signal peptide is a short peptide chain that directs the transport of a protein and has become the crucial vehicle in finding new drugs or reprogramming cells for gene therapy. As the avalanche of new protein sequences generated in the postgenomic era, the challenge of identifying new signal sequences has become even more urgent and critical in biomedical engineering. In this paper, we propose a novel predictor called Signal-BNF to predict the N-terminal signal peptide as well as its cleavage site based on Bayesian reasoning network. Signal-BNF is formed by fusing the results of different Bayesian classifiers which used different feature datasets as its input through weighted voting system. Experiment results show that Signal-BNF is superior to the popular online predictors such as Signal-3L and PrediSi. Signal-BNF is featured by high prediction accuracy that may serve as a useful tool for further investigating many unclear details regarding the molecular mechanism of the zip code protein-sorting system in cells.
Cholangiographic Features in Opium-Addicted Patients at a Tertiary Hospital in Iran
Authors: Mohammad Alizadeh Amir Houshang , Shams Afzali Esmaeal , Sanati Azar , Shahnazi Anahita , Mirsattari Dariush , Zali Mohammad Reza
Published: October 2012

Background/Aims.Destructive and metabolic changes in hepatobiliary system have been demonstrated following opium use; however, cholangiographic features of bile ducts in opium-addicted patients with sphincter of Oddi dysfunction are not clearly determined. We described these differences and assessed the effects of opium use on postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography complications.Methodology. One hundred and nineteen patients with the diagnosis of sphinctre of Oddi dysfunction according to the Geenen-Hogan classification were studied. Eight patients were confirmed opium-addicted and others were nonaddicted. Change of serum amylase concentrations after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and clinical diagnosis of addicted and non-addicted patients were compared.Results. Serum concentrations of liver aminotransferases and alkaline phosphatase were similar between the two groups. Serum concentration of amylase before endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was similar between them, whereas concentration of this enzyme was higher in nonaddicted ones after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Regarding pathologic changes in papilla, opium addiction group in comparison with control group statistically showed more tumoral features (25.0% versus 5.4%) and ulcerated changes (12.5% versus 0.0%).Conclusions. Opium use can increase probability of papilla ulcerative and tumoral changes in patients with sphinctre of Oddi dysfunction. Postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography serum amylase level may be reduced following opium addiction.
Photo-Fenton and Fenton Oxidation of Recalcitrant Industrial Wastewater Using Nanoscale Zero-Valent Iron
Authors: Hansson Henrik , Kaczala Fabio , Marques Marcia , Hogland William
Published: October 2012

There is a need for the development of on-site wastewater treatment technologies suitable for “dry-process industries,” such as the wood-floor sector. Due to the nature of their activities, these industries generate lower volumes of highly polluted wastewaters after cleaning activities. Advanced oxidation processes such as Fenton and photo-Fenton, are potentially feasible options for treatment of these wastewaters. One of the disadvantages of the Fenton process is the formation of large amounts of ferrous iron sludge, a constraint that might be overcome with the use of nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) powder. Wastewater from a wood-floor industry with initial COD of 4956 mg/L and TOC of 2730 mg/L was treated with dark-Fenton (nZVI/H2O2) and photo-Fenton (nZVI/H2O2/UV) applying a 2-level full-factorial experimental design. The highest removal of COD and TOC (80% and 60%, resp.) was achieved using photo-Fenton. The supply of the reactants in more than one dose during the reaction time had significant and positive effects on the treatment efficiency. According to the results, Fenton and mostly photo-Fenton are promising treatment options for these highly recalcitrant wastewaters. Future investigations should focus on optimizing treatment processes and assessing toxic effects that residual pollutants and the nZVI might have. The feasibility of combining advanced oxidation processes with biological treatment is also recommended.