bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Multi‐Laplace Transform for Solving Nonlinear Partial Differential Equations with Mixed Derivatives
Authors: Atangana Abdon , Oukouomi Noutchie Suares Clovis
Published: June 2014

A novel approach is proposed to deal with a class of nonlinear partial equations including integer and noninteger order derivative. This class of equations cannot be handled with any other commonly used analytical technique. The proposed method is based on the multi‐Laplace transform. We solved as an example some complicated equations. Three illustrative examples are presented to confirm the applicability of the proposed method. We have presented in detail the stability, the convergence and the uniqueness analysis of some examples.
Theoretical Insight into Organic Dyes Incorporating Triphenylamine-Based Donors and Binaryπ-Conjugated Bridges for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Wei Shuxian , Lu Xiaoqing , Shi Xiaofan , Deng Zhigang , Shao Yang , Zhao Lianming , Guo Wenyue , Wu Chi-Man Lawrence
Published: June 2014

The design of light-absorbent sensitizers with sustainable and environment-friendly material is one of the key issues for the future development of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In this work, a series of organic sensitizers incorporating alkoxy-substituted triphenylamine (tpa) donors and binaryπ-conjugated bridges were investigated using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT). Molecular geometry, electronic structure, and optical absorption spectra are analyzed in the gas phase, chloroform, and dimethylformamide (DMF) solutions. Our results show that properly choosing the heteroaromatic atoms and/or adding one more alkoxy-substituted tpa group can finely adjust the molecular orbital energy. The solvent effect renders the HOMO-LUMO gaps of the tpa-based sensitizers decrease in the sequence of DMF solution < chloroform solution < gas phase. The absorption spectra are assigned to the ligand-to-ligand charge transfer (LLCT) characteristics via transitions mainly from tpa, 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (edot), and alkyl-substituted dithienosilole (dts) groups to edot, dts, and cyanoacrylic acid groups. The binaryπ-conjugated bridges play different roles in balancing the electron transfer and recombination for the different tpa-based sensitizers. The protonation/deprotonation effect has great effect on the HOMO-LUMO gaps and thus has great influence on the bands at the long wavelength region, but little influence on the bands at the short wavelength region.
A Review on Migration Methods in B‐Scan Ground Penetrating Radar Imaging
Authors: Özdemir Caner , Demirci Şevket , Yiğit Enes , Yilmaz Betül
Published: June 2014

Even though ground penetrating radar has been well studied and applied by many researchers for the last couple of decades, the focusing problem in the measured GPR images is still a challenging task. Although there are many methods offered by different scientists, there is not any complete migration/focusing method that works perfectly for all scenarios. This paper reviews the popular migration methods of the B‐scan GPR imaging that have been widely accepted and applied by various researchers. The brief formulation and the algorithm steps for the hyperbolic summation, the Kirchhoff migration, the back‐projection focusing, the phase‐shift migration, and the ω‐k migration are presented. The main aim of the paper is to evaluate and compare the migration algorithms over different focusing methods such that the reader can decide which algorithm to use for a particular application of GPR. Both the simulated and the measured examples that are used for the performance comparison of the presented algorithms are provided. Other emerging migration methods are also pointed out.
An Alternate Method to Springback Compensation for Sheet Metal Forming
Authors: Siswanto Waluyo Adi , Anggono Agus Dwi , Omar Badrul , Jusoff Kamaruzaman
Published: June 2014

The aim of this work is to improve the accuracy of cold stamping product by accommodating springback. This is a numerical approach to improve the accuracy of springback analysis and die compensation process combining the displacement adjustment (DA) method and the spring forward (SF) algorithm. This alternate hybrid method (HM) is conducted by firstly employing DA method followed by the SF method instead of either DA or SF method individually. The springback shape and the target part are used to optimize the die surfaces compensating springback. The hybrid method (HM) algorithm has been coded in Fortran and tested in two- and three-dimensional models. By implementing the HM, the springback error can be decreased and the dimensional deviation falls in the predefined tolerance range.
Prediction of Materials Density according to Number of Scattered Gamma Photons Using Optimum Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Roshani Gholam Hossein , Feghhi Seyed  Amir Hossein , Shama Farzin , Salehizadeh Abolfazl , Nazemi Ehsan
Published: June 2014

Through the study of scattered gamma beam intensity, material density could be obtained. Most important factor in this densitometry method is determining a relation between recorded intensity by detector and target material density. Such situation needs many experiments over materials with different densities. In this paper, using two different artificial neural networks, intensity of scattered gamma is obtained for whole densities. Mean relative error percentage for test data using best method is 1.27% that shows good agreement between the proposed artificial neural network model and experimental results.
Energy-Efficiency Analysis of Per-Subcarrier Antenna Selection with Peak-Power Reduction in MIMO-OFDM Wireless Systems
Authors: Le Ngoc Phuc , Tran Le Chung , Safaei Farzad
Published: June 2014

The use of per-subcarrier antenna subset selection in OFDM wireless systems offers higher system capacity and/or improved link reliability. However, the implementation of the conventional per-subcarrier selection scheme may result in significant fluctuations of the average power and peak power across antennas, which affects the potential benefits of the system. In this paper, power efficiency of high-power amplifiers and energy efficiency in per-subcarrier antenna selection MIMO-OFDM systems are investigated. To deliver the maximum overall power efficiency, we propose a two-step strategy for data-subcarrier allocation. This strategy consists of an equal allocation of data subcarriers based on linear optimization and peak-power reduction via cross-antenna permutations. For analysis, we derive the CCDF (complementary cumulative distribution function) of the power efficiency as well as the analytical expressions of the average power efficiency. It is proved from the power-efficiency perspective that the proposed allocation scheme outperforms the conventional scheme. We also show that the improvement in the power efficiency translates into an improved capacity and, in turn, increases energy efficiency of the proposed system. Simulation results are provided to validate our analyses.
TGF-β: An Important Mediator of Allergic Disease and a Molecule with Dual Activity in Cancer Development
Authors: Tirado-Rodriguez Belen , Ortega Enrique , Segura-Medina Patricia , Huerta-Yepez Sara
Published: June 2014

The transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β) superfamily is a family of structurally related proteins that includes TGF-β, activins/inhibins, and bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs). Members of the TGF-βsuperfamily regulate cellular functions such as proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and migration and thus play key roles in organismal development. TGF-βis involved in several human diseases, including autoimmune disorders and vascular diseases. Activation of the TGF-βreceptor induces phosphorylation of serine/threonine residues and triggers phosphorylation of intracellular effectors (Smads). Once activated, Smad proteins translocate to the nucleus and induce transcription of their target genes, regulating various processes and cellular functions. Recently, there has been an attempt to correlate the effect of TGF-βwith various pathological entities such as allergic diseases and cancer, yielding a new area of research known as “allergooncology," which investigates the mechanisms by which allergic diseases may influence the progression of certain cancers. This knowledge could generate new therapeutic strategies aimed at correcting the pathologies in which TGF-βis involved. Here, we review recent studies that suggest an important role for TGF-βin both allergic disease and cancer progression.
On the Distance Pattern Distinguishing Number of a Graph
Authors: Jose Sona , Augustine Germina K.
Published: June 2014

LetG=(V,E)be a connected simple graph and letMbe a nonempty subset ofV. TheM-distance pattern of a vertexuinGis the set of all distances fromuto the vertices inM. If the distance patterns of all vertices inVare distinct, then the setMis a distance pattern distinguishing set ofG. A graphGwith a distance pattern distinguishing set is called a distance pattern distinguishing graph. Minimum number of vertices in a distance pattern distinguishing set is called distance pattern distinguishing number of a graph. This paper initiates a study on the problem of finding distance pattern distinguishing number of a graph and gives bounds for distance pattern distinguishing number. Further, this paper provides an algorithm to determine whether a graph is a distance pattern distinguishing graph or not and hence to determine the distance pattern distinguishing number of that graph.
Analysis of Fatigue Life of PMMA at Different Frequencies Based on a New Damage Mechanics Model
Authors: Huang Aifeng , Yao Weixing , Chen Fang
Published: June 2014

Low‐cycle fatigue tests at different frequencies and creep tests under different stress levels of Plexiglas Resist 45 were conducted. Correspondingly, the creep fracture time, S‐N curves, cyclic creep, and hysteresis loop were obtained. These results showed that the fatigue life increases with frequency at low frequency domain. After analysis, it was found that fatigue life is dependent on the load rate and is affected by the creep damage. In addition, a new continuum damage mechanics (CDM) model was established to analyze creep‐fatigue life, where the damage increment nonlinear summation rule was proposed and the frequency modification was made on the fatigue damage evolution equation. Differential evolution (DE) algorithm was employed to determine the parameters within the model. The proposed model described fatigue life under different frequencies, and the calculated results agreed well with the experimental results.
On the Signless Laplacian Spectral Radius of Bicyclic Graphs with Perfect Matchings
Authors: Zhang Jing-Ming , Huang Ting-Zhu , Guo Ji-Ming
Published: June 2014

The graph with the largest signless Laplacian spectral radius among all bicyclic graphs with perfect matchings is determined.
The Study of Interactions between Active Compounds of Coffee and Willow (Salixsp.) Bark Water Extract
Authors: Durak Agata , Gawlik-Dziki Urszula
Published: June 2014

Coffee and willow are known as valuable sources of biologically active phytochemicals such as chlorogenic acid, caffeine, and salicin. The aim of the study was to determine the interactions between the active compounds contained in water extracts from coffee and bark of willow (Salix purpureaandSalix myrsinifolia). Raw materials and their mixtures were characterized by multidirectional antioxidant activities; however, bioactive constituents interacted with each other. Synergism was observed for ability of inhibition of lipid peroxidation and reducing power, whereas compounds able to scavenge ABTS radical cation acted antagonistically. Additionally, phytochemicals from willow bark possessed hydrophilic character and thermostability which justifies their potential use as an ingredient in coffee beverages. Proposed mixtures may be used in the prophylaxis or treatment of some civilization diseases linked with oxidative stress. Most importantly, strong synergism observed for phytochemicals able to prevent lipids against oxidation may suggest protective effect for cell membrane phospholipids. Obtained results indicate that extracts from bark testedSalixgenotypes as an ingredient in coffee beverages can provide health promoting benefits to the consumers; however, this issue requires further study.
How to Choose “Last Mile” Delivery Modes for E‐Fulfillment
Authors: Wang Xuping , Zhan Linmin , Ruan Junhu , Zhang Jun
Published: June 2014

“Last mile” delivery has become one of the bottlenecks of e‐logistics. This paper aims to explore the competitiveness of three “Last mile” delivery modes—attended home delivery (AHD), reception box (RB), and collection‐and‐delivery points (CDPs) in different scenarios, especially in high population density scenario. The advantages and disadvantages of each mode are introduced first. Then each mode’s operation efficiency is solved with different kinds of vehicle routing problem (VRP) models and genetic algorithm (GA). Finally the cost of each mode is calculated on the basis of cost structures and operation efficiencies. The results show that different modes are suitable for different scenarios: (i) AHD and independent reception box work better in a scenario with sparse population or small order quantity; (ii) shared reception box and CDPs are more appropriate in the scenario with high population density and large order quantity, and the better one depends on the cost of labors and facilities; (iii) RB is desirable in some circumstances as delivering fresh vegetables and fruits to the ones living in high‐grade communities.
Solvability for a Fractional Order Three-Point Boundary Value System at Resonance
Authors: Ouyang Zigen , Liu Hongliang
Published: June 2014

A class of fractional order three-point boundary value system with resonance is investigated in this paper. Using some techniques of inequalities, a completely new method is incorporated. We transform the problem into an integral equation with a pair of undetermined parameters. The topological degree theory is applied to determine the particular value of the parameters so that the system has a solution.
Dynamical Behavior of a Stochastic Food-Chain System with Beddington-DeAngelis Functional Response
Authors: Ge Yanming , Song Zigen
Published: June 2014

We investigate a stochastic Food-Chain Systemdx(t)=[r1(t)-a11(t)x-(a12(t)y/(1+β1(t)x+γ1(t)y))]xdt+σ1(t)xdB1(t),dy(t)=[r2(t)-a21(t)y+(a22(t)x/(1+β1(t)x+γ1(t)y))-(a23(t)z/(1+β2(t)y+γ2(t)z))]ydt+σ2(t)ydB2(t),dz(t)=[-r3(t)+(a31(t)y/(1+β2(t)y+γ2(t)z))-a32(t)z]zdt+σ3(t)zdB3(t), whereBi(t),i=1,2,3,is a standard Brownian motion. Firstly, the existence, the uniqueness, and the positivity of the solution are proved. Secondly, the stochastically ultimate boundedness of the system is investigated. Thirdly, the boundedness of moments and upper-growth rate of the solution are obtained. Then the global attractivity of the system is discussed. Finally, the main results are illustrated by several examples.
Forecasting Dry Bulk Freight Index with Improved SVM
Authors: Han Qianqian , Yan Bo , Ning Guobao , Yu B.
Published: June 2014

An improved SVM model is presented to forecast dry bulk freight index (BDI) in this paper, which is a powerful tool for operators and investors to manage the market trend and avoid price risking shipping industry. The BDI is influenced by many factors, especially the random incidents in dry bulk market, inducing the difficulty in forecasting of BDI. Therefore, to eliminate the impact of random incidents in dry bulk market, wavelet transform is adopted to denoise the BDI data series. Hence, the combined model of wavelet transform and support vector machine is developed to forecast BDI in this paper. Lastly, the BDI data in 2005 to 2012 are presented to test the proposed model. The 84 prior consecutive monthly BDI data are the inputs of the model, and the last 12 monthly BDI data are the outputs of model. The parameters of the model are optimized by genetic algorithm and the final model is conformed through SVM training. This paper compares the forecasting result of proposed method and three other forecasting methods. The result shows that the proposed method has higher accuracy and could be used to forecast the short‐term trend of the BDI.
Silicone Oil: Different Physical Proprieties and Clinical Applications
Authors: Barca Francesco , Caporossi Tomaso , Rizzo Stanislao
Published: June 2014

Silicone oils are important tools in vitreoretinal surgery because they have the ability to displace aqueous humor from the retinal surface, maintaining the adhesion between retina and retinal pigment epithelium. To understand this capability, it is important to know the silicone oil characteristics. Herein, we report first on the main chemical-physical proprieties and then we review the clinical applications of the current silicone oil which is lighter than water with particular reference to their indications with small gauge vitrectomy. Finally, we describe the surgical techniques to inject and remove this type of silicone oil. In the summary of this paper, we explain why silicone oils are today increasingly used and why their introduction has improved the prognosis of several retinal diseases. In fact, having different types of silicone oils allows us to choose the appropriate endotamponade for every single case.
Parainfluenza Virus Type 1 Induces Epithelial IL-8 Production via p38-MAPK Signalling
Authors: Galván Morales Miguel Ángel , Cabello Gutiérrez Carlos , Mejía Nepomuceno Fidencio , Valle Peralta Leticia , Valencia Maqueda Elba , Manjarrez Zavala María Eugenia
Published: June 2014

Human parainfluenza virus type 1 (HPIV-1) is the most common cause of croup in infants. The aim of this study was to describe molecular mechanisms associated with IL-8 production during HPIV-1 infection and the role of viral replication in MAPK synthesis and activation. Anin vitromodel of HPIV-1 infection in the HEp-2 and A549 cell lines was used; a kinetic-based ELISA for IL-8 detection was also used, phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) was identified by Western blot analysis, and specific inhibitors for each kinase were used to identify which MAPK was involved. Inactivated viruses were used to assess whether viral replication is required for IL-8 production. Results revealed a gradual increase in IL-8 production at different selected times, when phosphorylation of MAPK was detected. The secretion of IL-8 in the two cell lines infected with the HPIV-1 is related to the phosphorylation of the MAPK as well as viral replication. Inhibition of p38 suppressed the secretion of IL-8 in the HEp-2 cells. No kinase activation was observed when viruses were inactivated.
Experimental Observation of the Skeletal Adaptive Repair Mechanism and Bionic Topology Optimization Method
Authors: Rahman Kaysar , Geni Mamtimin , Mamut Mamatjan , Yusup Nijat , Yusup Muhtar
Published: June 2014

Bone adaptive repair theory considers that the external load is the direct source of bone remodeling; bone achieves its maintenance by remodeling some microscopic damages due to external load during the process. This paper firstly observes CT data from the whole self‐repairing process in bone defects in rabbit femur. Experimental result shows that during self‐repairing process there exists an interaction relationship between spongy bone and enamel bone volume changes of bone defect, that is when volume of spongy bone increases, enamel bone decreases, and when volume of spongy bone decreases, enamel bone increases. Secondly according to this feature a bone remodeling model based on cross‐type reaction‐diffusion system influenced by mechanical stress is proposed. Finally, this model coupled with finite element method by using the element adding and removing process is used to simulate the self‐repairing process and engineering optimization problems by considering the idea of bionic topology optimization.
Optimization Model for Uncertain Statistics Based on an Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Hou Yongchao
Published: June 2014

Uncertain statistics is a methodology for collecting and interpreting the expert’s experimental data by uncertainty theory. In order to estimate uncertainty distributions, an optimization model based on analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and interpolation method is proposed in this paper. In addition, the principle of least squares method is presented to estimate uncertainty distributions with known functional form. Finally, the effectiveness of this method is illustrated by an example.
Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) Exhibits Antidiabetic Activities in a Mouse Model of Diet‐Induced Obesity
Authors: Eid Hoda M. , Ouchfoun Meriem , Brault Antoine , Vallerand Diane , Musallam Lina , Arnason John T. , Haddad Pierre S.
Published: June 2014

Vaccinium vitis-idaea, commonly known as lingonberry, has been identified among species used by the Cree of Eeyou Istchee of northern Quebec to treat symptoms of diabetes. In a previous study, the ethanol extract of berries of V. vitis-idaea enhanced glucose uptake in C2C12 muscle cells via stimulation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of plant extract in a dietary mouse model of mild type 2 diabetes. C57BL/6 mice fed a high‐fat diet (HFD, ∼35% lipids) for 8 weeks that become obese and insulin‐resistant (diet‐induced obesity, DIO) were used. Treatment began by adding V. vitis-idaea extract to HFD at 3 different concentrations (125, 250, and 500 mg/Kg) for a subsequent period of 8 weeks (total HFD, 16 weeks). The plant extract significantly decreased glycemia and strongly tended to decrease insulin levels in this model. This was correlated with a significant increase in GLUT4 content and activation of the AMPK and Akt pathways in skeletal muscle. V. vitis-idaea treatment also improved hepatic steatosis by decreasing hepatic triglyceride levels and significantly activated liver AMPK and Akt pathways. The results of the present study confirm that V. vitis-idaea represents a culturally relevant treatment option for Cree diabetics and pave the way to clinical studies.
Analyzing Association of theXRCC3Gene Polymorphism with Ovarian Cancer Risk
Authors: Yuan Cunzhong , Liu Xiaoyan , Yan Shi , Wang Cunfang , Kong Beihua
Published: June 2014

This meta-analysis aims to examine whether theXRCC3polymorphisms are associated with ovarian cancer risk. Eligible case-control studies were identified through search in PubMed. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were appropriately derived from fixed effects models. We therefore performed a meta-analysis of 5,302 ovarian cancer cases and 8,075 controls from 4 published articles and 8 case-control studies for 3 SNPs ofXRCC3. No statistically significant associations betweenXRCC3rs861539 polymorphisms and ovarian cancer risk were observed in any genetic models. ForXRCC3rs1799794 polymorphisms, we observed a statistically significant correlation with ovarian cancer risk using the homozygote comparison (T2T2 versus T1T1: OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.54–0.90,P=0.005), heterozygote comparison (T1T2 versus T1T1: OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.00–1.21,P=0.04), and the recessive genetic model (T2T2 versus T1T1+T1T2: OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.52–0.87,P=0.002). ForXRCC3rs1799796 polymorphisms, we also observed a statistically significant correlation with ovarian cancer risk using the heterozygote comparison (T1T2 versus T1T1: OR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.83–0.99,P=0.04). In conclusion, this meta-analysis shows that theXRCC3were associated with ovarian cancer risk overall for Caucasians. Asian and African populations should be further studied.
Functional Trait Trade-Offs for the Tropical Montane Rain Forest Species Responding to Light from Simulating Experiments
Authors: Mao Peili , Zang Runguo , Shao Hongbo , Yu Junbao
Published: June 2014

Differences among tropical tree species in survival and growth to light play a key role in plant competition and community composition. Two canopy species with contrasting functional traits dominating early and late successional stages, respectively, in a tropical montane rain forest of Hainan Island, China, were selected in a pot experiment under 4 levels of light intensity (full, 50%, 30%, and 10%) in order to explore the adaptive strategies of tropical trees to light conditions. Under each light intensity level, the pioneer species,Endospermum chinense(Euphorbiaceae), had higher relative growth rate (RGR), stem mass ratio (SMR), specific leaf area (SLA), and morphological plasticity while the shade tolerant climax species,Parakmeria lotungensis(Magnoliaceae), had higher root mass ratio (RMR) and leaf mass ratio (LMR). RGR of both species was positively related to SMR and SLA under each light level but was negatively correlated with RMR under lower light (30% and 10% full light). The climax species increased its survival by a conservative resource use strategy through increasing leaf defense and root biomass investment at the expense of growth rate in low light. In contrast, the pioneer increased its growth by an exploitative resource use strategy through increasing leaf photosynthetic capacity and stem biomass investment at the expense of survival under low light. There was a trade-off between growth and survival for species under different light conditions. Our study suggests that tree species in the tropical rainforest adopt different strategies in stands of different successional stages. Species in the earlier successional stages have functional traits more advantageous to grow faster in the high light conditions, whereas species in the late successional stages have traits more favorable to survive in the low light conditions.
Melnikov’s Criteria and Chaos Analysis in the Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation with Kerr Law Nonlinearity
Authors: Yin Jiuli , Zhao Liuwei , Tian Lixin
Published: June 2014

The dynamics of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation with Kerr law nonlinearity with two perturbation terms are investigated. By using Melnikov method, the threshold values of chaotic motion under periodic perturbation are given. Moreover we also study the effects of the parameters of system on dynamical behaviors by using numerical simulation. The numerical simulations, including bifurcation diagram of fixed points, chaos threshold diagram of system in three-dimensional space, maximum Lyapunov exponent, and phase portraits, are also plotted to illustrate theoretical analysis and to expose the complex dynamical behaviors. In particular, we observe that the system can leave chaotic region to periodic motion by adjusting controllere, amplituded1, and frequencyω2of external forcing which can be considered a control strategy, and when the frequenciesyω2andω1approach the maximum frequency of disturbance, the system turmoil intensifies and control intensity increases.
Increased Frequency of Circulating Follicular Helper T Cells in Children with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Caused by Enterovirus 71 Infection
Authors: Wu Jianping , Cui David , Yang Xianzhi , Lou Jianzhou , Lin Jie , Ye Xianfei , Qin Zhimei , Huang Li , Zhao Dejian , Huo Zhaoxia , Xie Guoliang , Zheng Shufa , Yu Fei , Lu Liwei , Chen Yu
Published: June 2014

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is a major causative agent of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in children. The role of T follicular helper (TFH) cells in EV71-infected children remains unclear in regulating humoral immunity. The frequency of circulating ICOShigh/PD-1highCXCR5+CD4+TFH cells in the children with mild and severe EV71 infection and healthy controls (HC) was detected by flow cytometry, respectively. IL-21 and IL-6 mRNA expression and their serum levels, Bcl-6 mRNA expression, and specific neutralizing antibodies against EV71 (NAb-EV71) were measured. In the acute stage of patients with EV71 infection, increased frequencies of circulating TFH cells with ICOShighand PD-1highexpression in the mild and severe patients were observed, and the positive correlations among the frequencies of circulating TFH cells and the serum levels of IL-21, IL-6, and NAb-EV71 titres were detected, respectively. Moreover, the expressions of IL-6 and IL-21 mRNA in PBMCs from patients were also significantly higher than those of HC. However, further analysis did not reveal any significant differences between mild and severe patients. These data indicate a role of TFH cells and associated cytokines in modulating the humoral response during the pathogenesis of EV71 infection.
Development of a Carbon Emission Calculations System for Optimizing Building Plan Based on the LCA Framework
Authors: Fu Feifei , Luo Hanbin , Zhong Hua , Hill Andrew
Published: June 2014

Life cycle thinking has become widely applied in the assessment for building environmental performance. Various tool are developed to support the application of life cycle assessment (LCA) method. This paper focuses on the carbon emission during the building construction stage. A partial LCA framework is established to assess the carbon emission in this phase. Furthermore, five typical LCA tools programs have been compared and analyzed for demonstrating the current application of LCA tools and their limitations in the building construction stage. Based on the analysis of existing tools and sustainability demands in building, a new computer calculation system has been developed to calculate the carbon emission for optimizing the sustainability during the construction stage. The system structure and detail functions are described in this paper. Finally, a case study is analyzed to demonstrate the designed LCA framework and system functions. This case is based on a typical building in UK with different plans of masonry wall and timber frame to make a comparison. The final results disclose that a timber frame wall has less embodied carbon emission than a similar masonry structure. 16% reduction was found in this study.
Immunogenicity Studies of Bivalent Inactivated Virions of EV71/CVA16 Formulated with Submicron Emulsion Systems
Authors: Lin Chih-Wei , Liu Chia-Chyi , Lu Tsung-Chun , Liu Shih-Jen , Chow Yen-Hung , Chong Pele , Huang Ming-Hsi
Published: June 2014

We assessed two strategies for preparing candidate vaccines against hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) caused mainly by infections of enterovirus (EV) 71 and coxsackievirus (CV) A16. We firstly design and optimize the potency of adjuvant combinations of emulsion-based delivery systems, using EV71 candidate vaccine as a model. We then perform immunogenicity studies in mice of EV71/CVA16 antigen combinations formulated with PELC/CpG. A single dose of inactivated EV71 virion (0.2 μg) emulsified in submicron particles was found (i) to induce potent antigen-specific neutralizing antibody responses and (ii) consistently to elicit broad antibody responses against EV71 neutralization epitopes. A single dose immunogenicity study of bivalent activated EV71/CVA16 virion formulated with either Alum or PELC/CpG adjuvant showed that CVA16 antigen failed to elicit CVA16 neutralizing antibody responses and did not affect EV71-specific neutralizing antibody responses. A boosting dose of emulsified EV71/CVA16 bivalent vaccine candidate was found to be necessary to achieve high seroconversion of CVA16-specific neutralizing antibody responses. The current results are important for the design and development of prophylactic vaccines against HFMD and other emerging infectious diseases.
Fast Transient Thermal Analysis of Non-Fourier Heat Conduction Using Tikhonov Well-Conditioned Asymptotic Waveform Evaluation
Authors: Rana Sohel , Kanesan Jeevan , Reza Ahmed Wasif , Ramiah Harikrishnan
Published: June 2014

Non-Fourier heat conduction model with dual phase lag wave-diffusion model was analyzed by using well-conditioned asymptotic wave evaluation (WCAWE) and finite element method (FEM). The non-Fourier heat conduction has been investigated where the maximum likelihood (ML) and Tikhonov regularization technique were used successfully to predict the accurate and stable temperature responses without the loss of initial nonlinear/high frequency response. To reduce the increased computational time by Tikhonov WCAWE using ML (TWCAWE-ML), another well-conditioned scheme, called mass effect (ME) T-WCAWE, is introduced. TWCAWE with ME (TWCAWE-ME) showed more stable and accurate temperature spectrum in comparison to asymptotic wave evaluation (AWE) and also partial Pade AWE without sacrificing the computational time. However, the TWCAWE-ML remains as the most stable and hence accurate model to analyze the fast transient thermal analysis of non-Fourier heat conduction model.
Y-Function Analysis of the Low Temperature Behavior of Ultrathin Film FD SOI MOSFETs
Authors: Karsenty A. , Chelly A.
Published: June 2014

The respective transfer characteristics of the ultrathin body (UTB) and gate recessed channel (GRC) device, sharing sameW/Lratio but having a channel thickness of 46 nm, and 2.2 nm respectively, were measured at 300 K and at 77 K. By decreasing the temperature we found that the electrical behaviors of these devices were radically opposite: if for UTB device, the conductivity was increased, the opposite effect was observed for GRC. The low field electron mobility and series resistanceRSDvalues were extracted using a method based onY-function for both the temperatures. IfRSDlow values were found for UTB, very high values (>1 MΩ) were extracted for GRC. Surprisingly, for the last device, the effective field mobility is found very low (<1 cm2/Vs) and is decreasing by lowering the temperature. After having discussed the limits of this analysis.This case study illustrates the advantage of theY-analysis in discriminating a parameter of great relevance for nanoscale devices and gives a coherent interpretation of an anomalous electrical behavior.
Operations Management of Logistics and Supply Chain: Issues and Directions
Authors: Li Xiang
Published: June 2014

There has been consensus that logistics as well as supply chain management is a vital research field, yet with few literature reviews on this topic. This paper sets out to propose some hot issues in the current research, through a review of related literature from the perspective of operations management. In addition, we generate some insights and future research directions in this field.
Thermal Treatment of Cerium Oxide and Its Properties: Adsorption Ability versus Degradation Efficiency
Authors: Janoš Pavel , Hladík Tomáš , Kormunda Martin , Ederer Jakub , Šťastný Martin
Published: June 2014

Cerium oxide belongs to the most important heterogeneous catalysts, but its applicability as so-called reactive sorbent for the degradation of toxic chemicals was only recently discovered. For these purposes, cerium oxide is prepared by precipitation of insoluble cerium salts (carbonates) with a subsequent thermal decomposition. Properties of cerium oxide prepared from the carbonate precursor are strongly affected by the temperature during the calcination. Main physicochemical properties of cerium oxide (specific surface area, crystallinity, and surface chemistry) were examined in dependence on the calcination temperature. As the adsorptive properties of CeO2are undoubtedly of great importance in the abovementioned applications, the adsorption ability was studied using an azo dye Acid Orange 7 (AO7) as a model compound. The highest sorption efficiency towards AO7 exhibited sorbents prepared at temperatures below 700°C, which was attributed mainly to the presence of hydroxyl groups on the oxide surface. A strong correlation was found between an adsorption efficiency of cerium oxides and their degradation efficiency for organophosphate pesticide parathion methyl. The >Ce–OH groups on the sorbent surface are responsible for the dye binding by the surface-complexation mechanism, and probably also for the nucleophilic cleavage of the P–O–aryl bond in the pesticide molecule.
Nanocomposites with Liquid-Like Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Dispersed in Epoxy Resin without Solvent Process
Authors: Zhang Xi , Zheng Ya-Ping , Yang Rui-Lu , Yang Hai-Cheng
Published: June 2014

Liquid-like multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were prepared with as-received carboxylic MWNTs-COOH and poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(propylene oxide)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO) through hydrogen bonding. The sample has liquid-like behavior above 58°C. The MWNTs content is 26.6 wt%. The liquid-like MWNTs nanofluids were incorporated into epoxy matrix with solvent-free process and dispersed well. When the liquid-like MWNTs nanofluids content is up to 1 wt%, the impact toughness of the nanocomposite is 153% higher than the pure epoxy matrix.
The LQR Controller Design of Two‐Wheeled Self‐Balancing Robot Based on the Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Fang Jian
Published: June 2014

The dynamics model is established in view of the self‐designed, two‐wheeled, and self‐balancing robot. This paper uses the particle swarm algorithm to optimize the parameter matrix of LQR controller based on the LQR control method to make the two‐wheeled and self‐balancing robot realize the stable control and reduce the overshoot amount and the oscillation frequency of the system at the same time. The simulation experiments prove that the LQR controller improves the system stability, obtains the good control effect, and has higher application value through using the particle swarm optimization algorithm.
Renal Transplantation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Outcome and Prognostic Factors in 50 Cases from a Single Centre
Authors: Cairoli Ernesto , Sanchez-Marcos Carolina , Espinosa Gerard , Glucksmann Constanza , Ercilla Guadalupe , Oppenheimer Federico , Cervera Ricard
Published: June 2014

Background.End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).Objectives.To analyze the outcome and prognostic factors of renal transplantation in patients with ESRD due to SLE from January 1986 to December 2013 in a single center.Results.Fifty renal transplantations were performed in 40 SLE patients (32 female (80%), mean age at transplantation 36 ± 10.4 years). The most frequent lupus nephropathy was type IV (72.2%). Graft failure occurred in a total of 15 (30%) transplantations and the causes of graft failure were chronic allograft nephropathy (n=12), acute rejection (n=2), and chronic humoral rejection (1). The death-censored graft survival rates were 93.9% at 1 year, 81.5% at 5 years, and 67.6% at the end of study. The presence of deceased donor allograft (P=0.007) and positive anti-HCV antibodies (P=0.001) negatively influence the survival of the renal transplant. The patient survival rate was 91.4% at the end of the study. Recurrence of lupus nephritis in renal allograft was observed in one patient.Conclusion.Renal transplantation is a good alternative for renal replacement therapy in patients with SLE. In our cohort, the presence of anti-HCV antibodies and the type of donor source were related to the development of graft failure.
Vitamin Status as a Determinant of Serum Homocysteine Concentration in Type 2 Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Fotiou Pandelis , Raptis Athanasios , Apergis George , Dimitriadis George , Vergados Ioannis , Theodossiadis Panagiotis
Published: June 2014

We investigated the association of serum homocysteine levels and vitamin status with type 2 diabetic retinopathy. This study included 65 patients with and 75 patients without diabetic retinopathy. Patients with diabetic retinopathy had significantly higher serum homocysteine levelsP<0.001, higher prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemiaP<0.001, lower serum folic acidP<0.001, and vitamin B12(P=0.014) levels than those without diabetic retinopathy. Regression analysis revealed that homocysteine was an independent risk factor for diabetic retinopathy and there was a threshold in its serum level (13.7 μmol/L), above which the risk of diabetic retinopathy greatly increases (OR=1.66,P=0.001). Folic acid was associated with decreased odds for diabetic retinopathy (OR=0.73,P<0.001). There was a threshold in serum vitamin B12level (248.4 pg/mL), below which serum homocysteine concentration significantly increases with decreasing serum vitamin B12(P=0.003). Our findings suggest that hyperhomocysteinemia is an independent risk factor for the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy. Decreased serum levels of folic acid and vitamin B12, through raising serum homocysteine concentrations, may also affect the diabetic retinopathy risk.
Research Progress on Expansive Soil Cracks under Changing Environment
Authors: Shi Bei-xiao , Zheng Cheng-feng , Wu Jin-kun
Published: June 2014

Engineering problems shunned previously rise to the surface gradually with the activities of reforming the natural world in depth, the problem of expansive soil crack under the changing environment becoming a control factor of expansive soil slope stability. The problem of expansive soil crack has gradually become a research hotspot, elaborates the occurrence and development of cracks from the basic properties of expansive soil, and points out the role of controlling the crack of expansive soil strength. We summarize the existing research methods and results of expansive soil crack characteristics. Improving crack measurement and calculation method and researching the crack depth measurement, statistical analysis method, crack depth and surface feature relationship will be the future direction.
Nothochrysinae (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae): New Larval Description and Generic Synonymy, with a Consideration of Generic Relationships
Authors: Tauber Catherine A.
Published: June 2014

Semaphorant B ofKimochrysa africana(Kimmins) expresses all of the larval synapomorphies that characterize the subfamily Nothochrysinae. Except for its head markings, the larva appears identical to that ofHypochrysa elegans(Burmeister). Based on consideration of both larval and adult similarities,Kimochrysa(Tjeder) is designated to be a subjective synonym ofHypochrysaHagen (New Synonymy). The morphological basis for a previously proposed generic subdivision of Nothochrysinae is evaluated; the results indicate that the subfamily can be organized into two generic groupings each with distinct suites of shared adult characters. As yet, apomorphic support is not forthcoming from adult characters, and, unfortunately, larvae are known from only a few genera in the subfamily.
Label‐Free Dengue Detection Utilizing PNA/DNA Hybridization Based on the Aggregation Process of Unmodified Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Abdul Rahman Samsulida , Saadun Rafidah , Azmi Nur Ellina , Ariffin Nurhayati , Abdullah Jaafar , Yusof Nor Azah , Sidek Hamidah , Hajian Reza
Published: June 2014

A label‐free optical detection method based on PNA/DNA hybridization using unmodified gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for dengue virus detection has been successfully developed. In this study, no immobilization method is involved and the hybridization of PNA/DNA occurs directly in solution. Unmodified AuNPs undergo immediate aggregation in the presence of neutral charge peptide nucleic acid (PNA) due to the coating of PNA on AuNPs surface. However, in the presence of complementary targets DNA, the hybridization of PNA probe with target DNA forms negatively charged complexes due to the negatively charged phosphate backbone of the target DNA. The negatively charged complexes adsorbed onto the AuNPs surface ensure sufficient charge repulsion, need for AuNPs dispersion, and stability in solution. The detection procedure is a naked eye method based on immediate color changes and also through UV‐vis adsorption spectra. The selectivity of the proposed method was studied successfully by single base mismatch and noncomplementary target DNA.
Evaluation and Satisfaction Survey on the Interface Usability of Online Publishing Software
Authors: Lee Ying-Jye , Lin Chia-Ju
Published: June 2014

Digital publishing is one of the national key programs. Different from traditional digital publishing models, consumers could create personal digital publications with the editing program provided by businesses and combine it with web‐to‐print to output solid publications. Nevertheless, the usability of online publishing software is related to consumers’ acceptance or intention of product purchase. In this case, Focus Group is utilized to screen representative online publishing software (including TinTint, Photobook, and Hypo) for evaluating interface usability, investigating users’ Subjective Satisfaction, and further proposing suggestions for interface modification. Learnability and the number of user errors are set as the evaluation indicators of usability. Within the evaluation indicators in Learnability, the results show that nine typical tasks, except for Storing, show significant difference between various online publishing software. Typical tasks of basic information of works, appending pictures, adjusting pictures, changing type version, and changing pages in the number of user errors reveal significant difference on distinct online publishing software. Regarding the evaluation of overall Subjective Satisfaction with interface, TinTint and Hypo outperform Photobook, and no significant difference appears between TinTint and Hypo. It is expected that the research model could be the application reference of interface development and evaluation in digital content industries.
The Electric Field Modulation by Hemisphere Damage Sites in Fused Silica Subsurface
Authors: He Shaobo , Yang Liang , Li Li , Zu Xiao-Tao
Published: June 2014

The effect of defect density on the electric field modulation to incident laser is investigated in this work. Based on the actual defect distribution in fused silica subsurface, the three-dimension grid model of defect sites is constructed firstly. Then, the three-dimension finite-difference time-domain method is developed to solve the Maxwell equations. The electric field intensity in the vicinity of the defect sites located in front subsurface of fused silica is numerically calculated. The relationships between the maximal electric field intensity in fused silica and the geometry of the defect sites are given. The simulated results reveal that the modulation becomes more remarkable with the increase of defects density firstly and then decrease. Besides, the effect of the distribution mode of defects on modulation is discussed. Meanwhile, the possible physical mechanism is analyzed in detail.
Esthetic Rehabilitation of Anterior Teeth with Laminates Composite Veneers
Authors: Re Dino , Augusti Gabriele , Amato Massimo , Riva Giancarlo , Augusti Davide
Published: June 2014

No- or minimal-preparation veneers associated with enamel preservation offer predictable results in esthetic dentistry; indirect additive anterior composite restorations represent a quick, minimally invasive, inexpensive, and repairable option for a smile enhancement treatment plan. Current laboratory techniques associated with a strict clinical protocol satisfy patients’ restorative and esthetic needs. The case report presented describes minimal invasive treatment of four upper incisors with laminate nanohybrid resin composite veneers. A step-by-step protocol is proposed for diagnostic evaluation, mock-up fabrication and trial, teeth preparation and impression, and adhesive cementation. The resolution of initial esthetic issues, patient satisfaction, and nice integration of indirect restorations confirmed the success of this anterior dentition rehabilitation.