bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis and Interpretation of Longitudinal Waves in Periodic Multiphase Rods Using the Method of Reverberation-Ray Matrix Combined With the Floquet-Bloch Theorem
Authors: Guo Y. Q. , Fang D. N.
Published: September 2013

The method of reverberation-ray matrix (MRRM) combined with the Floquet–Bloch theorem, which serves as an alternative method, is presented for accurately analyzing longitudinal waves in general periodic multiphase rods. Closed-form dispersion relation of periodic quaternary rods is derived. Based on this relation, the functions of constituent-rod parameters in the formation of longitudinal-wave band structures are analytically revealed. Numerical examples validate the proposed method and indicate the characteristics/applications of all kinds of dispersion curves that include the frequency-wave number spectra, the frequency-wavelength spectra, the frequency-phase velocity spectra, the wave number-phase velocity spectra and the wavelength-phase velocity spectra. The effect of unit-cell layout on the frequency band properties and the functions of constituent-rod parameters in the band structure formation are also illustrated numerically. The analysis and interpretation of longitudinal waves in periodic multiphase rods given in this paper will push forward the design of periodic structures for longitudinal wave filtering/guiding and vibration isolation/control applications.
Mechanical Models of Low-Gravity Sloshing Taking Into Account Viscous Damping
Authors: Utsumi M.
Published: September 2013

Mechanical models of damped low-gravity sloshing are developed using a proposed analytical method for arbitrary axisymmetric tanks. It is shown that (a) the complex amplitudes of the force and moment caused by the conventional mechanical model do not coincide with the complex amplitudes of the force and moment calculated from the modal equation of sloshing and (b) these differences arise not only from the damping ratio but also from the surface tension although the surface tension does not cause energy dissipation. A mechanical model for correcting these differences is developed. The mass of this correction model is found to be equal to the mass of the liquid that fills the domain bounded by the meniscus and the plane that includes the contact line of the meniscus with the tank wall. With decreasing Bond number, the correction model mass as well as the damping ratio increase and, therefore, the correction becomes important. The force and moment caused by the conventional uncorrected mechanical model have phase lag with respect to the force and moment calculated from the modal equation of sloshing near the resonant frequency. Therefore, the correction is important for the dynamics and control analysis of a space vehicle.
A Perturbation Solution of the Thickness Natural Vibrations of a Piezoelectric Plate
Authors: Cupiał Piotr
Published: September 2013

This paper discusses a perturbation approach to the calculation of the natural frequencies and mode shapes for both the displacement and the electrostatic potential through-thickness vibration of an infinite piezoelectric plate. The problem is formulated within the coupled theory of linear piezoelectricity. It is described by a set of two coupled differential equations with unknown thickness displacement, the electrostatic potential and a general form of boundary conditions. A consistent perturbation solution to the natural vibration problem is described. An important element not present in the classical eigenvalue perturbation solution is that the small parameter appears in the boundary conditions; a way to handle this complication has been discussed. The natural frequencies and mode shapes obtained using the perturbation approach are compared to exact solutions, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed method. The advantage of the perturbation method derives from the fact that coupled piezoelectric results can be obtained from the elastic solution during the postprocessing stage.
Vibration Power Flow Analysis of a Submerged Constrained Layer Damping Cylindrical Shell
Authors: Wang Yun , Zheng Gangtie
Published: September 2013

The vibration power flow in a submerged infinite constrained layer damping (CLD) cylindrical shell is studied in the present paper using the wave propagation approach. Dynamic equations of the shell are derived with the Hamilton principle in conjunction with the Donnell shell assumptions. Besides, the pressure field in the fluid is described by the Helmholtz equation and the damping characteristics are considered with the complex modulus method. Then, the shell-fluid coupling dynamic equations are obtained by using the coupling between the shell and the fluid. Vibration power flows inputted to the coupled system and transmitted along the shell axial direction are both studied. Results show that input power flow varies with driving frequency and circumferential mode order, and the constrained damping layer will restrict the exciting force inputting power flow into the shell, especially for a thicker viscoelastic layer, a thicker or stiffer constraining layer (CL), and a higher circumferential mode order. Cut-off frequencies do not exist in the CLD cylindrical shell, so that the exciting force can input power flow into the shell at any frequency and for any circumferential mode order. The power flow transmitted in the CLD cylindrical shell exhibits an exponential decay form along its axial direction, which indicates that the constrained damping layer has a good damping effect, especially at middle or high frequencies.
High-Precision Positioning of Laser Beams for Vibration Measurements
Authors: Marinescu Olguta , Epureanu Bogdan I.
Published: September 2013

Predicting the vibratory response of structures with complex geometry can be challenging especially when their properties (geometry and material properties) are not known accurately. These structures can suffer also from high modal density, which can result in small changes in structural properties creating large changes in the resonant response. To address this issue, structural properties could be accurately identified, or the structural response could be experimentally measured. Both these approaches require collecting measurements of higher order vibration modes, which have complicated shape. Consequently, high-accuracy positioning of laser beams is necessary for vibrometers based on laser Doppler velocimetry. This paper presents a methodology to address this challenge. The architecture involves a single-point vibrometer, a motion controller, translating/rotating stages, and special application software for alignment and edge detection. A key novelty of this technology is that the beam of the vibrometer is used for both detecting the edges and for measuring the vibration. Using a motion controller, the system can automatically place/scan and measure the surface of the structure with a positioning resolution of 1 μm. Experimental results are provided to demonstrate the new technique.
A Head and Neck Support Device for Inducing Local Hypothermia
Authors: Gladen Adam , Iaizzo Paul A. , Bischof John C. , Erdman Arthur G. , Divani Afshin A.
Published: September 2013

The present work describes the design of a device/system intended to induce local mild hypothermia by simultaneously cooling a patient's head and neck. The therapeutic goal is to lower the head and neck temperatures to 33–35 °C, while leaving the core body temperature unchanged. The device works by circulating a cold fluid around the exterior of the head and neck. The head surface area is separated into five different cooling zones. Each zone has a cooling coil and can be independently controlled. The cooling coils are tightly wrapped concentric circles of tubing. This design allows for a dense packing of tubes in a limited space, while preventing crimping of the tubing and minimizing the fluid pressure head loss. The design in the neck region also has multiple tubes wrapping around the circumference of the patient's neck in a helix. Preliminary testing indicates that this approach is capable of achieving the design goal of cooling the brain tissue (at a depth of 2.5 cm from the scalp) to 35 °C within 30– 40 min, without any pharmacologic or circulatory manipulation. In a comparison with examples of current technology, the device has shown the potential for improved cooling capability.
Benzocaine-induced methaemoglobinaemia: a life-threatening complication after a transoesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
Authors: Aryal Madan Raj , Gupta Shobhit , Giri Smith , Diaz Fraga Julian
Published: September 2013

Acquired methaemoglobinaemia is a potentially fatal impairment in oxygen delivery if not recognised early and treated appropriately. Benzocaine used as an anaesthetic for endoscopic procedures is an uncommon but clinically important precipitant of acquired methaemoglobinaemia. We present a case of an elderly woman who developed perioral cyanosis and desaturation 20 min after a transoesophageal echocardiogram. Further evaluation led to the diagnosis of benzocaine-induced methaemoglobinaemia and timely treatment with intravenous methylene blue was initiated.
Fuel selection during short-term submaximal treadmill exercise in the cold is not affected by pre-exercise low-intensity shivering
Authors: Gagnon Dominique D. , Rintamäki Hannu , Gagnon Sheila S. , Oksa Juha , Porvari Katja , Cheung Stephen S. , Herzig Karl-Heinz , Kyröläinen Heikki
Published: September 2013

Exercise and shivering rely on different metabolic pathways and consequently, fuel selection. The present study examined the effects of a pre-exercise low-intensity shivering protocol on fuel selection during submaximal exercise in a cold environment. Nine male subjects exercised 4 times for 60 min at 50% (LOW) or 70% (MOD) of their peak oxygen consumption on a motorized treadmill in a climatic chamber set at 0 °C with (SHIV) and without (CON) a pre-exercise cooling protocol, inducing low-intensity shivering. Thermal, cardiorespiratory and metabolic responses were measured every 15 min whereas blood samples were collected every 30 min to assess serum nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), glycerol, glucose, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and plasma catecholamine concentrations. Rectal and skin temperatures were lower in the SHIV condition, within LOW and MOD conditions, during the first 45 min of exercise. Norepinephrine (NE) concentration was greater in SHIV vs. CON within LOW (1.39 ± 0.17 vs. 0.98 ± 0.17 ng·mL−1) and MOD (1.50 ± 0.20 vs. 1.01 ± 0.09 ng·mL−1), whereas NEFA, glycerol and BHB were greater in SHIV vs. CON (1060 ± 49 vs. 898 ± 78 μmol·L−1; 0.27 ± 0.02 vs. 0.22 ± 0.03 mmol·L−1; 0.39 ± 0.06 vs. 0.27 ± 0.04 mmol·L−1, respectively) within MOD only. No changes were observed in fat or carbohydrate oxidation between SHIV and CON during exercise. Despite increases in NE, NEFA, glycerol and BHB from pre-exercise low-intensity shivering, fuel selection during short-term submaximal exercise in the cold was unaltered.
Do older adults experience greater thermal strain during heat waves?
Authors: Stapleton Jill M. , Larose Joanie , Simpson Christina , Flouris Andreas D. , Sigal Ronald J. , Kenny Glen P.
Published: September 2013

Heat waves are the cause of many preventable deaths around the world, especially among older adults and in countries with more temperate climates. In the present study, we examined the effects of age on whole-body heat loss and heat storage during passive exposure to environmental conditions representative of the upper temperature extremes experienced in Canada. Direct and indirect calorimetry measured whole-body evaporative heat loss and dry heat exchange, as well as the change in body heat content. Twelve younger (21 ± 3 years) and 12 older (65 ± 5 years) adults with similar body weight (younger: 72.0 ± 4.4 kg; older: 80.1 ± 4.2 kg) and body surface area (younger: 1.8 ± 0.1 m2; older: 2.0 ± 0.1 m2) rested for 2 h in a hot–dry [36.5 °C, 20% relative humidity (RH)] or hot–humid (36.5 °C, 60% RH) environment. In both conditions, evaporative heat loss was not significantly different between groups (dry: p = 0.758; humid: p = 0.814). However, the rate of dry heat gain was significantly greater (by approx. 10 W) for older adults relative to younger adults during the hot–dry (p = 0.032) and hot–humid exposure (p = 0.019). Consequently, the cumulative change in body heat content after 2 h of rest was significantly greater in older adults in the hot–dry (older: 212 ± 25 kJ; younger: 131 ± 27 kJ, p = 0.018) as well as the hot–humid condition (older: 426 ± 37 kJ; younger: 317 ± 45 kJ, p = 0.037). These findings demonstrate that older individuals store more heat during short exposures to dry and humid heat, suggesting that they may experience increased levels of thermal strain in such conditions than people of younger age.
Late Quaternary glacial history and meltwater discharges along the Northeastern Newfoundland Shelf
Authors: Roger Jonathan , Saint-Ange Francky , Lajeunesse Patrick , Duchesne Mathieu J. , St-Onge Guillaume
Published: September 2013

The geomorphology of the Eastern Canadian margin has been shaped by glacial processes during the Quaternary. Many studies have focused on the ice-sediment pathway through Hudson Strait to reconstruct the dynamics of the Laurentide Ice Sheet, and as a consequence, little is known on its marginal ice domes. Here we reconstruct the dynamics of two trough mouth fans (TMFs) offshore NE Newfoundland using sediment cores and radiocarbon ages supported by very high resolution seismic reflection profiles. These two TMFs, namely Notre Dame and Hawke, are fed by two glacial troughs incised in the bedrock. The TMFs show a complete sedimentary sequence from 30 ka BP to the beginning of the Holocene. The sampled sedimentary record on the upper slope extends back to a thick Heinrich event 3 (H3) deposit that corresponds to the end of the maximum extent of the Newfoundland ice dome. Above H3, a thick succession of turbidite deposits (>10 m) observed in both TMFs is correlated with periods of major meltwater supply from 28–29 to 17 ka BP. Our results show that the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) period was characterized by major input of meltwater events stemming from the Newfoundland dome. The presence of H1 (∼17 ka BP) coincide with the end of the turbidite activity which is replaced by an open-water environment characterized by hemipelagic sediments rich in ice-rafted debris. The proglacial muddy sediment older than 13.3 ka BP on the shelf shows that ice was not grounded after H1, suggesting a very rapid retreat of the ice on the Newfoundland shelf after 17 ka BP.
Characterizing forest structural types and shelterwood dynamics from Lorenz-based indicators predicted by airborne laser scanning
Authors: Valbuena Rubén , Packalen Petteri , Mehtätalo Lauri , García-Abril Antonio , Maltamo Matti
Published: September 2013

In this study, Lorenz curve descriptors of tree diameter inequality were used to characterize the dynamics of forest development in a shelterwood-managed Pinus sylvestris (L.) dominated area. The purpose was to stratify the forest area into forest structural types (FST) from airborne laser scanning (ALS)-based wall-to-wall predictions of the chosen indicators: Gini coefficient (GC) and Lorenz asymmetry (LA). A clear boundary at GC = 0.5 was found, which separated even-sized (below) and uneven-sized (above) areas. Furthermore, a need for including LA in the characterization of the uneven-sized areas was detected, to distinguish bimodal from reverse J-shaped stands. Beta regression was used for the ALS predictions, yielding RMSEs of 19.67% for GC and 11.01% for LA. Based on our results, we concluded that forest disturbance decreases GC, whereas seed regeneration increases GC and, therefore, gap dynamics are characterized by shifts between either side of the GC = 0.5 threshold. In even-sized stands, GC decreases toward maturity owing to self-thinning occurring at the stem exclusion stage. In uneven-sized stands, the skewness of the Lorenz curve indicates understory development, as ingrowth decreases LA. The possible applications of the resulting FST map are discussed; for instance, in identifying areas needing silvicultural treatments or evaluating forest recovery from disturbances.
Derivation of all symmetries from first-class constraints and quantization in 2 + 1 dimensional supergravity
Authors: McKeon D.G.C.
Published: September 2013

The first class constraints in N = 1 supergravity in 2 + 1 dimensions are used to construct a generator of three gauge symmetries (including a local supersymmetry) that leave the action invariant. The algebra of these symmetries closes. This generator is used to quantize the model; a ghost involving both bosonic and fermionic components arises.
Bounds on the quantity of entanglement in parallel quantum computing of a single ensemble quantum computer
Authors: Aoki M. Ávila , Sun Guo Hua , Dong Shi Hai
Published: September 2013

Speeding up of the processing of quantum algorithms has been focused on from the point of view of an ensemble quantum computer (EQC) working in a parallel mode. As a consequence of such efforts, additional speed up has been achieved for processing both Shor’s and Grover’s algorithms. On the other hand, in the literature there is scarce concern about the quantity of entanglement contained in EQC approaches, for this reason in the present work we study such a quantity. As a first result, an upper bound on the quantity of entanglement contained in EQC is imposed. As a main result we prove that equally weighted states are not appropriate for EQC working in parallel mode. In order that our results are not exclusively purely theoretical, we exemplify the situation by discussing the entanglement on an ensemble of n1 = 3 diamond quantum computers.
Antinociceptive activity of a synthetic oxopyrrolidine-based compound, ASH21374, and determination of its possible mechanisms
Authors: Zakaria Zainul Amiruddin , Sani Mohammed Hijaz , Mohammat Mohammed Fazli , Mansor Nurul Shulehaf , Shaameri Zurina , Kek Teh Lay , Salleh Mohd. Zaki , Hamzah Ahmad Sazali
Published: September 2013

This study was carried out to determine the antinociceptive activity of a novel synthetic oxopyrrolidine-based compound, (2R,3R,4S)-ethyl 4-hydroxy-1,2-dimethyl-5-oxopyrrolidine-3-carboxylate (ASH21374), and to elucidate the involvement of the opioid, vanilloid, glutamate, and nitric oxide – cyclic guanosine monophosphate (NO/cGMP) systems in modulating the observed antinociception. ASH21374, in the doses of 2, 10, and 100 mg/kg body mass, was administered orally to mice 60 mins prior to exposure to various antinociceptive assays. From the results obtained, ASH21374 exhibited significant (P < 0.05) antinociceptive activity in the abdominal constriction, hot-plate, and formalin tests that was comparable with 100 mg/kg acetylsalicylic acid or 5 mg/kg morphine, respectively. ASH21374 also attenuated capsaicin- and glutamate-induced paw licking. Pre-treatment with 5 mg/kg naloxone significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited the activity in all assays, while pretreatment with 10 mg/kg β-funaltraxamine, 1 mg/kg naltrindole, or 1 mg/kg nor-binaltorphimine significantly (P < 0.05) reversed the activity in the abdominal constriction test. l-Arginine, NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl esters (l-NAME), methylene blue, and their combinations, failed to inhibit the ASH21374 antinociceptive activity. In conclusion, ASH21374 demonstrated antinociceptive activities on the peripheral and central nervous systems, mediated through the activation of opioid receptors, inhibition of the glutamatergic system, and attenuation of vanilloid-mediated nociceptive transmission. Further studies have been planned to determine the pharmacological potential of ASH21374.
COMPLETE REAL HYPERSURFACES AND SPECIAL 𝕂-LINE BUNDLES IN 𝕂-HYPERBOLIC SPACES
Authors: INNAMI NOBUHIRO , ITOKAWA YOE , SHIOHAMA KATSUHIRO
Published: September 2013

Using the geometry of geodesics, we discuss the global aspects of complete real hypersurfaces in hyperbolic spaces of constant holomorphic sectional curvature [Formula: see text] over any division algebra 𝕂. Our assumption is that the shape operator and the curvature transformation with respect to the normal unit have the same eigenspaces. Note that we do not assume constancy of the principal curvatures. Under this assumption, we give a complete global classification of such hypersurfaces. Since the argument is purely geometric, we need not vary the argument for different base algebras. The foliations of [Formula: see text] with totally geodesic leaves called 𝕂-lines play an important role.
STRUCTURAL, ELASTIC, ELECTRONIC, CHEMICAL BONDING AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF M2Se (M = Li, Na, K, Rb) THROUGH FIRST PRINCIPLE STUDY
Authors: ALI ROSHAN , KHANATA R. , AMIN BIN , MURTAZA G. , BIN OMRAN S.
Published: September 2013

Structural, elastic, electronic and optical properties as well as chemical bonding of the binary alkali metal selenides M 2 Se ( M = Li , Na , K , Rb ) were calculated using the full potential linearized augmented plane method. From the elastic constants it is inferred that these compounds are brittle in nature. The results of the electronic band structure show that Na 2 Se has a direct energy band gap (Γ-Γ), Li 2 Se has an indirect energy band gap (Γ- X), while K 2 Se and Rb 2 Se have an indirect energy band gap (X-Γ). Analysis of the charge distribution plots reveals a dominated ionic bonding in the herein studied compounds. Additionally, we have calculated the optical properties, namely, the real and the imaginary parts of the dielectric function, refractive index, extinction coefficient, optical conductivity and reflectivity for radiation up to 30.0 eV. All these compounds have direct energy band gap greater than 3.1 eV suggesting their use for manufacturing high frequency devices.
STRUCTURAL, MAGNETIC AND ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES OF THE Sr2CoNbO6 COMPLEX PEROVSKITE
Authors: RENDÓN RAMÍREZ J. M. , ALMANZA M. O. A. , CARDONA R. , LANDÍNEZ TÉLLEZ D. A. , ROA-ROJAS J.
Published: September 2013

We report a study of crystallographic parameters of the Sr 2 CoNbO 6 double perovskite obtained from Rietveld analysis of X-ray diffraction data and electronic properties predictions using the density functional theory (DFT). The Sr 2 CoNbO 6 material was prepared by the citrate precursor method. Diffraction analysis reveal that this material crystallizes in a structure which is tetragonal with lattice parameters a = 5.5960(3) Å and c = 7.9881(1) Å (space group I4/m). The density of states of Sr 2 CoNbO 6 tetragonal distorted structure was calculated using DFT within the generalized gradient approximation. Results predict the semiconductor characteristics of this material which is majority due to the 3d- Co orbital with a energy gap of 0.2 eV. Structural lattice parameters obtained from the Rietveld refinement present a matching of 97% with that obtained from the Structure Prediction Diagnostic Software and 98% with the theoretical DFT results. Measurements of magnetization as a function of temperature evidence the occurrence of a magnetic ordering transition at T = 220 K and a marked irreversibility with a blocking temperature of 250 K for applied fields up to 100 Oe, which disappears for higher fields. Electronic paramagnetic resonance experiments evidence that the valence Co 3+ is the most possible in the synthesized material.
CONFIGURATION SPACE INTEGRALS AND THE COHOMOLOGY OF THE SPACE OF HOMOTOPY STRING LINKS
Authors: KOYTCHEFF ROBIN , MUNSON BRIAN A. , VOLIĆ ISMAR
Published: September 2013

Configuration space integrals have been used in recent years for studying the cohomology of spaces of (string) knots and links in ℝn for n > 3 since they provide a map from a certain differential graded algebra of diagrams to the deRham complex of differential forms on the spaces of knots and links. We refine this construction so that it now applies to the space of homotopy string links — the space of smooth maps of some number of copies of ℝ in ℝn with fixed behavior outside a compact set and such that the images of the copies of ℝ are disjoint — even for n = 3. We further study the case n = 3 in degree zero and show that our integrals represent a universal finite type invariant of the space of classical homotopy string links. As a consequence, we deduce that Milnor invariants of string links can be written in terms of configuration space integrals.
Effects of LPLI on microglial phagocytosis in LPS-induced neuroinflammation model
Authors: Song Sheng , Chen Wei , Zhou Feifan
Published: September 2013

Microglial activation plays an important role in neurodegenerative diseases. Once activated, they have macrophage-like capabilities, which can be beneficial by phagocytosis and harmful by secretion of neurotoxins. However, the resident microglia always fail to trigger an effective phagocytic response to clear dead cells or Aβ deposits during the progression of neurodegeneration. Therefore, the regulation of microglial phagocytosis is considered a useful strategy in searching for neuroprotective treatments. In this study, our results showed that low-power laser irradiation (LPLI) (20 J/cm2) could enhance microglial phagocytic function in LPS-activated microglia. We found that LPLI-mediated microglial phagocytosis is a Rac-1-dependent actin-based process, that a constitutively activated form of Rac1 (Rac1Q61L) induced a higher level of actin polymerization than cells transfected with wild-type Rac1, whereas a dominant negative form of Rac1 (Rac1T17N) markedly suppressed actin polymerization. In addition, the involvement of Rac1 activation after LPLI treatment was also observed by using a Raichu fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based biosensor. We also found that PI3K/Akt pathway was required in the LPLI-induced Rac1 activation. Our research may provide a feasible therapeutic approach to control the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY OF HUMAN HEMOGLOBIN FOR DIABETES DETECTION
Authors: LIN JUQIANG , LIN JINYONG , HUANG ZUFANG , LU PENG , WANG JING , WANG XUCHAO , CHEN RONG
Published: September 2013

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) has been increasingly accepted as the gold standard for diabetes monitoring. In this study, Raman spectroscopy was tentatively employed for human hemoglobin (Hb) biochemical analysis aimed at developing a simple blood test for diabetes monitoring. Raman spectroscopy measurements were performed on hemoglobin samples of patients (n = 39) with confirmed diabetes and healthy volunteers (n = 37). The tentative assignments of the measured Raman bands were performed to compare the difference between these two groups. Meanwhile, principal component analysis (PCA) combined with linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were employed to develop effective diagnostic algorithms for classification between normal controls and patients with diabetes. As a result, the spectral features of these two groups demonstrated two distinct clusters with a sensitivity and specificity of 92.3% and 73%, respectively. Then the effectiveness of the diagnostic algorithm based on PCA-LDA technique was confirmed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The area under the ROC curve was 0.92, indicating a good diagnostic result. In summary, our preliminary results demonstrate that proposing Raman spectroscopy can provide a significant potential for the noninvasive detection of diabetes.
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors Promote Angiogenesis in Chick Chorioallantoic Membrane and Inhibit Apoptosis of Endothelial Cells
Authors: Mortazavian Seyed Mohsen , Parsaee Heydar , Mousavi Seyed Hadi , Tayarani-Najaran Zahra , Ghorbani Ahmad , Sadeghnia Hamid Reza
Published: September 2013

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most common causes of dementia in the elderly. Recently, a great attention has been paid to the possible role of vascular changes in the pathogenesis of AD. Reduced microvascular density and degeneration of the endothelium are of structural cerebrovascular changes in AD. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors are widely used for the improvement of AD symptoms. Until now, however, the effects of AChE inhibitors on vascular changes including angiogenesis and endothelial cell apoptosis are not fully understood. In the present work, the effects of three AChE inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine) were tested on H2O2-induced apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and on angiogenesis in chicken chorioallantoic membrane model. Incubation of HUVEC with H2O2led to a significant decrease in cell viability and an increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells. The tested drugs, at concentrations of 1–100 μM, significantly inhibited the H2O2-induced toxicity. Also, all donepezil, rivastigmine and galantamine significantly increased the number of vessels in the chorioallantoic membrane when injected into fertilized eggs. In conclusion, AChE inhibitors possess angiogenesis-accelerating properties and have antiapoptotic effects on endothelial cells. These effects of AChE inhibitors may be involved in their beneficial effects on AD.
A Combined Model of Global Cultivated Area Change and Prediction for Future: 1961–2020
Authors: Wang Cheng-Jun , Fei Xi-Min
Published: September 2013

As a basic condition for food safety, cultivated area fluctuates in recent years. So, it has important political and economical significance to understand the future change trend of global cultivated area. Based on historical data in the past 50 years, deterministic time series analysis model, random time series analysis model, and combined model were established by using time series analysis method. By comparison, the combined model has the highest fitting and prediction accuracy, and it is suitable for the prediction of global cultivated area change trend. The global cultivated area will rise slightly in fluctuation in the near future driven by a combination of deterministic factors and random factors.
Challenges of Parental Involvement Within a Health Promoting School Framework in New Zealand
Authors: Clelland Tracy , Cushman Penni , Hawkins Jacinta
Published: September 2013

The study sought to identify key issues regarding parental involvement within a health promoting school (HPS) approach directed at addressing children’s nutrition and physical activity. A case study research design was used, involving six primary schools in Auckland, New Zealand. Data were collected via six individual interviews with principals, six group interviews with a total of 26 teachers, 13 focus groups with a total of 92 children, and a survey of 229 parents. The study found that while schools agreed on the importance of schools and parents promoting the same healthy behaviours, there was a lack of agreement on the role of school staff in educating parents. School principals identified issues around managing the food brought from home and the extent to which they should regulate types of food. Parents stressed the importance of modelling healthy food and exercise practices in the home environment but identified factors that often made this difficult, a scenario that did not go unnoticed by their children. It is recommended that parental involvement be encouraged and supported so that schools and families can achieve consistency in health promotion practices across both school and home environments.
p53/p21 Pathway Involved in Mediating Cellular Senescence of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Authors: Gu Zhifeng , Jiang Jinxia , Tan Wei , Xia Yunfei , Cao Haixia , Meng Yan , Da Zhanyun , Liu Hong , Cheng Chun
Published: September 2013

Our and other groups have found that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients exhibited senescent behavior and are involved in the pathogenesis of SLE. Numerous studies have shown that activation of the p53/p21 pathway inhibits the proliferation of BM-MSCs. The aim of this study was to determine whether p53/p21 pathway is involved in regulating the aging of BM-MSCs from SLE patients and the underlying mechanisms. We further confirmed that BM-MSCs from SLE patients showed characteristics of senescence. The expressions of p53 and p21 were significantly increased, whereas levels of Cyclin E, cyclin-dependent kinase-2, and phosphorylation of retinoblastoma protein were decreased in the BM-MSCs from SLE patients and knockdown of p21 expression reversed the senescent features of BM-MSCs from SLE patients. Our results demonstrated that p53/p21 pathway played an important role in the senescence process of BM-MSCs from SLE.
Low-Fat Nondairy Minidrink Containing Plant Stanol Ester Effectively Reduces LDL Cholesterol in Subjects with Mild to Moderate Hypercholesterolemia as Part of a Western Diet
Authors: Hallikainen Maarit , Olsson Johan , Gylling Helena
Published: September 2013

The cholesterol-lowering efficacy of plant stanol ester (STAEST) added to fat- or milk-based products is well documented. However, their efficacy when added to nondairy liquid drinks is less certain. Therefore, we have investigated the cholesterol-lowering efficacy of STAEST added to a soymilk-based minidrink in the hypercholesterolemic subjects. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel study, the intervention group (n=27) consumed 2.7 g/d of plant stanols as the ester in soymilk-based minidrink (65 mL/d) with the control group (n=29) receiving the same drink without added plant stanols once a day with a meal for 4 weeks. Serum total, LDL, and non-HDL cholesterol concentrations were reduced by 8.0, 11.1, and 10.2% compared with controls (P<0.05for all). Serum plant sterol concentrations and their ratios to cholesterol declined by 12–25% from baseline in the STAEST group while the ratio of campesterol to cholesterol was increased by 10% in the controls (P<0.05for all). Serum precursors of cholesterol remained unchanged in both groups. In conclusion, STAEST-containing soymilk-based low-fat minidrink consumed once a day with a meal lowered LDL and non-HDL cholesterol concentrations without evoking any side effects in subjects consuming normal Western diet. The clinical trial registration number isNCT01716390.
Common Carotid Artery Occlusion: A Case Series
Authors: Bajkó Zoltán , Bălaşa Rodica , Moţăţăianu Anca , Maier Smaranda , Chebuţ Octavia Claudia , Szatmári Szabolcs
Published: September 2013

Subjects and Methods. We analysed 5000 cerebrovascular ultrasound records. A total of 0.4% of the patients had common carotid artery occlusion (CCAO).Results. The mean age was years, and the male/female ratio was 2.33. The most frequent risk factors were hypertension, ischaemic heart disease, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and smoking. Right-sided and left-sided CCAO occurred in 65% and 30% of the cases, respectively, and bilateral occlusion was detected in one case (5%). Patent bifurcation was observed in 10 cases of CCAO in which the anterograde flow in the ICA was maintained from the external carotid artery with reversed flow. In two of the cases, the occluded CCA was hypoplastic. The aetiology of CCAO in the majority of cases was the atherosclerosis (15 cases). The male/female ratio was higher in the patients with occluded distal vessels, and the short-term outcome was poorer. Only two cases from this series underwent revascularisation surgery. Spontaneous recanalisation was observed in one case.Conclusions. The most frequent cause of CCAO was atherosclerosis. The outcome is improved in the cases with patent distal vessels, and spontaneous recanalisation is possible. Treatment methods have not been standardised. Surgical revascularisation is possible in cases of patent distal vessels, but the indications are debatable.
Electroacupuncture at 2/100 Hz Activates Antinociceptive Spinal Mechanisms Different from Those Activated by Electroacupuncture at 2 and 100 Hz in Responder Rats
Authors: da Silva Josie Resende Torres , da Silva Marcelo Lourenço , Prado Wiliam Alves
Published: September 2013

We examined the effects of intrathecal injection of desipramine and fluoxetine (selective inhibitors of norepinephrine and 5-HT uptake, resp.), thiorphan and neostigmine (inhibitors of enkephalinase and acetylcholinesterase, resp.), gabapentin (a GABA releaser), and vigabatrin (an inhibitor of GABA-transaminase) on the antinociception induced by 2 Hz, 100 Hz, or 2/100 Hz electroacupuncture (EA) applied bilaterally to the Zusanli (ST36) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) acupoints using the rat tail-flick test. We show that 2 Hz EA antinociception lasts longer after the administration of drugs that increase the spinal availability of norepinephrine, acetylcholine, or GABA; 100 Hz EA antinociception lasts longer after drug that increases the spinal availability of norepinephrine; 2/100 Hz EA antinociception lasts longer after drugs that increase the spinal availability of endogenous opioids or GABA. We conclude that the antinociceptive effect of 2/100 Hz EA is different from the synergistic effect of alternate stimulation at 2 and 100 Hz because the effect of the former is not changed by increasing the spinal availability of serotonin and lasts longer after the administration of vigabatrin. The combination of EA with drugs that increase the availability of spinal neurotransmitters involved in the modulation of nociceptive inputs may result in a synergistic antinociceptive effect in the rat tail-flick test.
Harmful Impact of ZnS Nanoparticles on Daphnia sp. in the Western Part (Districts of Bankura and Purulia) of West Bengal, India
Authors: Bhattacharjee Baibaswata , Chatterjee Nilanjana , Lu Chung-Hsin
Published: September 2013

ZnS nanoparticles of different sizes are synthesized employing a simple wet chemical method. These nanoparticles are used to study their impact on the Daphnia sp. through traditional toxicity tests. The percentage of mortality is found to increase initially with increasing nanoparticle concentration or exposure time and is finally found to saturate for higher concentrations or exposure times. Mortality is found to be higher for smaller particles. Hopping frequency and heart rate are also found to increase with increasing nanoparticle exposure time for a fixed nanoparticle concentration. These observations can be attributed to the enhanced surface photooxidation property of the ZnS nanoparticles. Thus the present study will help people to understand the hitherto unknown harmful impact of ZnS nanoparticles on aquatic organisms in the western part of West Bengal (Bankura and Purulia districts), India.
Tubular Initial Conditions and Ridge Formation
Authors: Borysova M. S. , Borysov O. D. , Karpenko Iu. A. , Shapoval V. M. , Sinyukov Yu. M.
Published: September 2013

The 2D azimuth and rapidity structure of the two-particle correlations in relativistic A+A collisions is altered significantly by the presence of sharp inhomogeneities in superdense matter formed in such processes. The causality constraints enforce one to associate the long-range longitudinal correlations observed in a narrow angular interval, the so-called (soft) ridge, with peculiarities of the initial conditions of collision process. This study's objective is to analyze whether multiform initial tubular structures, undergoing the subsequent hydrodynamic evolution and gradual decoupling, can form the soft ridges. Motivated by the flux-tube scenarios, the initial energy density distribution contains the different numbers of high density tube-like boost-invariant inclusions that form a bumpy structure in the transverse plane. The influence of various structures of such initial conditions in the most central A+A events on the collective evolution of matter, resulting spectra, angular particle correlations andvn-coefficients is studied in the framework of the hydrokinetic model (HKM).
Estimation of the Lateral Ventricles Volumes from a 2D Image and Its Relationship with Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow
Authors: Bader Chaarani , Cyrille Capel , Jadwiga Zmudka , Joel Daouk , Fichten Anthony , Catherine Gondry-Jouet , Roger Bouzerar , Olivier Balédent
Published: September 2013

Purpose. This work suggests a fast estimation method of the lateral ventricles volume from a 2D image and then determines if this volume is correlated with the cerebrospinal fluid flow at the aqueductal and cerebral levels in neurodegenerative diseases.Materials and Methods. FForty-five elderly patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (19), normal pressure hydrocephalus (13), and vascular dementia (13) were involved and underwent anatomical and phase contrast MRI scans. Lateral ventricles and stroke volumes were assessed on anatomical and phase contrast scans, respectively. A common reference plane was used to calculate the lateral ventricles’ area on 2D images.Results. The largest volumes were observed in hydrocephalus patients. The linear regression between volumes and areas was computed, and a strong positive correlation was detected (R2=0.9). A derived equation was determined to represent the volumes for any given area. On the other hand, no significant correlations were detected between ventricles and stroke volumes (R2≤0.15).Conclusion. Lateral ventricles volumes are significantly proportional to the 2D reference section area and could be used for patients’ follow-up even if 3D images are unavailable. The cerebrospinal fluid fluctuations in brain disorders may depend on many physiological parameters other than the ventricular morphology.
Low‐Temperature Annealing Induced Amorphization in Nanocrystalline NiW Alloy Films
Authors: Chen Z. Q. , Wang F. , Huang P. , Lu T. J. , Xu K. W.
Published: September 2013

Annealing induced amorphization in sputtered glass‐forming thin films was generally observed in the supercooled liquid region. Based on X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis, however, here, we demonstrate that nearly full amorphization could occur in nanocrystalline (NC) sputtered NiW alloy films annealed at relatively low temperature. Whilst the supersaturation of W content caused by the formation of Ni4W phase played a crucial role in the amorphization process of NiW alloy films annealed at 473 K for 30 min, nearly full amorphization occurred upon further annealing of the film for 60 min. The redistribution of free volume from amorphous regions into crystalline regions was proposed as the possible mechanism underlying the nearly full amorphization observed in NiW alloys.
Oscillation Criteria for Linear Neutral Delay Differential Equations of First Order
Authors: Ahmed Fatima N. , Ahmad Rokiah Rozita , Din Ummul Khair Salma , Noorani Mohd Salmi Md
Published: September 2013

Some new sufficient conditions for oscillation of all solutions of the first-order linear neutral delay differential equations are obtained. Our new results improve many well-known results in the literature. Some examples are inserted to illustrate our results.
Epilepsy Surgery: Factors That Affect Patient Decision-Making in Choosing or Deferring a Procedure
Authors: Anderson Christopher Todd , Noble Eva , Mani Ram , Lawler Kathy , Pollard John R.
Published: September 2013

Surgical resection for well-selected patients with refractory epilepsy provides seizure freedom approximately two-thirds of the time. Despite this, many good candidates for surgery, after a presurgical workup, ultimately do not consent to a procedure. The reasons why patients decline potentially effective surgery are not completely understood. We explored the socio cultural, medical, personal, and psychological differences between candidates who chose (n = 23) and those who declined surgical intervention (n = 9). We created a novel questionnaire addressing a range of possible factors important in patient decision making. We found that patients who declined surgery were less bothered by their epilepsy (despite comparable severity), more anxious about surgery, and less likely to listen to their doctors (and others) and had more comorbid psychiatric disease. Patients who chose surgery were more embarrassed by their seizures, more interested in being “seizure-free”, and less anxious about specific aspects of surgery. Patient attitudes, beliefs, and anxiety serve as barriers to ideal care. These results can provide opportunities for education, treatment, and intervention. Additionally, patients who fit a profile of someone who is likely to defer surgery may not be appropriate for risky and expensive presurgical testing.
Multiple Hamartoma Syndrome with Characteristic Oral and Cutaneous Manifestations
Authors: Chippagiri Prashanthi , Banavar Ravi Spoorthi , Patwa Neha
Published: September 2013

Aim. To present a case of Cowden's syndrome and emphasize the importance of continued cancer surveillance in these patients. Cowden syndrome is an inherited autosomal dominant trait with incomplete penetrance and a range of expressivity. It is characterized by multiple hamartomas and neoplasms. Mucocutaneous features include trichilemmomas, oral mucosal papillomatosis, acral keratosis, and palmoplantar keratosis. Here, we report a case of Cowdens syndrome of a 30-year-old female patient who came with a complaint of multiple growths in the oral cavity of a three-month duration. On examination, multiple skin-colored, flat-topped papules over her forehead and right malar bone and multiple papillomatous papules involving all the mucosal surfaces intraorally were observed. This syndrome is associated with the development of several types of malignancies, especially breast carcinoma and thyroid carcinoma, which is why early recognition and regular and vigilant surveillance of individuals with the syndrome are important.
Synthesis of Dextran/Methoxy Poly(ethylene glycol) Block Copolymer
Authors: Jeong Young-Il , Kim Dong-Gon , Kang Dae-Hwan
Published: September 2013

We synthesized a block copolymer composed of dextran and methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) (mPEG). To accomplish this, the end group of dextran was modified by reductive amination. The aminated dextran (Dextran‐NH2) showed the intrinsic peaks of both dextran at 3~5.5 ppm and hexamethylene diamine at
1~2.6 ppm at 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrum. The amino end group of dextran was conjugated with mPEG to make the block copolymer consisting of dextran/mPEG (abbreviated as DexPEG). The synthesized aminated dextran and DexPEG were characterized using 1H NMR and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The molecular weight and conjugation yield were estimated by comparing the intensity ratio of the proton peaks of the glucose molecule (4.9 ppm and 3.3~4.0 ppm) to that of the ethylene group of mPEG (3.7 ppm). Abundant hydroxyl group in the dextran chain can be used as a source of bioactive agent conjugation.
An Obesity Paradox of Asian Body Mass Index after Cardiac Surgery: Arterial Oxygenations in Duration of Mechanic Ventilation
Authors: Chang Chiu-Hsia , Lee Fan-Yen , Wang Chin-Chou , Chen Ying-Ni , Chen Hsin-Chu , Hung Huei-Ling , Lin Meng-Chih , Liu Shih-Feng
Published: September 2013

Background. Numerous studies have documented an obesity paradox that overweight of Caucasian patients has better prognosis after cardiac surgery. This study is to examine Asian patients’ BMI to see whether an obesity paradox exists in DMV after cardiac surgery. Methods. A retrospective study consisted of 428 patients after cardiac surgery from January 2006 to December 2010 in the medical center of Taiwan. The Asian BMI was divided into 3 groups: under‐normal weight patients (BMI < 24; n = 165), overweight patients (BMI 24 to <27; n = 130), and obese patients (BMI ≥ 27; n = 133). Multivariable analysis and paired t were used to compare all variables. Results. Overweight patients were significantly associated with the shortest DMV. Under‐normal weight patients had significantly better oxygenations of AaDO2 and P/F ratio in the DMV; however, they correlated with the longest DMV, older age, more female, lower LVSV, higher BUN, more dialysis‐dependent, and poorer outcomes, namely, 1‐year mortality, HAP, reintubation, tracheotomy, and LOS. Conclusions. Asian overweight patients after cardiac surgery have better prognosis. Under‐normal weight patients have higher risk factors, longer DMV, and poorer outcomes; even though they have better arterial oxygenations, they seem to need better arterial oxygenations for successful weaning ventilator.