bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decreased endothelial nitric oxide, systemic oxidative stress, and increased sympathetic modulation contribute to hypertension in obese rats
Authors: da Cunha Natalia Veronez , Pinge-Filho Phileno , Panis Carolina , Silva Bruno Rodrigues , Pernomian Laena , Grando Marcella Daruge , Cecchini Rubens , Bendhack Lusiane Maria , Martins-Pinge Marli Cardoso
Published: March 2014

We investigated the involvement of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) on autonomic cardiovascular parameters, vascular reactivity, and endothelial cells isolated from aorta of monosodium glutamate (MSG) obese rats. Obesity was induced by administration of 4 mg/g body wt of MSG or equimolar saline [control (CTR)] to newborn rats. At the 60th day, the treatment was started with NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME, 20 mg/kg) or 0.9% saline. At the 90th day, after artery catheterization, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate were recorded. Plasma was collected to assess lipid peroxidation. Endothelial cells isolated from aorta were evaluated by flow cytometry and fluorescence intensity (FI) emitted by NO-sensitive dye [4,5-diaminofluoresceindiacetate (DAF-2DA)] and by ROS-sensitive dye [dihydroethidium (DHE)]. Vascular reactivity was made by concentration-response curves of acetylcholine. MSG showed hypertension compared with CTR. Treatment with l-NAME increased MAP only in CTR. The MSG induced an increase in the low-frequency (LF) band and a decrease in the high-frequency band of pulse interval. l-NAME treatment increased the LF band of systolic arterial pressure only in CTR without changes in MSG. Lipid peroxidation levels were higher in MSG and were attenuated after l-NAME. In endothelial cells, basal FI to DAF was higher in CTR than in MSG. In both groups, acetylcholine increased FI for DAF from basal. The FI baseline to DHE was higher in MSG than in CTR. Acetylcholine increased FI to DHE in the CTR group, but decreased in MSG animals. We suggest that reduced NO production and increased production of ROS may contribute to hypertension in obese MSG animals.
Is spinal excitability of the triceps surae mainly affected by muscle activity or body position?
Authors: Cattagni T. , Martin A. , Scaglioni G.
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to determine how muscle activity and body orientation contribute to the triceps surae spinal transmission modulation, when moving from a sitting to a standing position. Maximal Hoffmann-reflex (Hmax) and motor potential (Mmax) were evoked in the soleus (SOL), medial and lateral gastrocnemius in 10 male subjects and in three conditions, passive sitting, active sitting and upright standing, with the same SOL activity in active sitting and upright standing. Moreover volitional wave (V) was evoked in the two active conditions (i.e., active sitting and upright standing). The results showed that SOL Hmax/Mmax was lower in active sitting than in passive sitting, while for the gastrocnemii it was not significantly altered. For the three plantar flexors, Hmax/Mmax was lower in upright standing than in active sitting, whereas V/Mmax was not modulated. SOL H-reflex is therefore affected by the increase in muscle activity and change in body orientation, while, in the gastrocnemii, it was only affected by a change in posture. In conclusion, passing from a sitting to a standing position affects the Hmax/Mmax of the whole triceps surae, but the mechanisms responsible for this change differ among the synergist muscles. The V/Mmax does not change when upright stance is assumed. This means that the increased inhibitory activity in orthostatic position is compensated by an increased excitatory inflow to the α-motoneurons of central and/or peripheral origin.
Adaptation of scanning saccades co-occurs in different coordinate systems
Authors: Lévy-Bencheton Delphine , Pélisson Denis , Panouillères Muriel , Urquizar Christian , Tilikete Caroline , Pisella Laure
Published: March 2014

Plastic changes of saccades (i.e., following saccadic adaptation) do not transfer between oppositely directed saccades, except when multiple directions are trained simultaneously, suggesting a saccadic planning in retinotopic coordinates. Interestingly, a recent study in human healthy subjects revealed that after an adaptive increase of rightward-scanning saccades, both leftward and rightward double-step, memory-guided saccades, triggered toward the adapted endpoint, were modified, revealing that target location was coded in spatial coordinates ( Zimmermann et al. 2011 ). However, as the computer screen provided a visual frame, one alternative hypothesis could be a coding in allocentric coordinates. Here, we questioned whether adaptive modifications of saccadic planning occur in multiple coordinate systems. We reproduced the paradigm of Zimmermann et al. (2011) using target light-emitting diodes in the dark, with and without a visual frame, and tested different saccades before and after adaptation. With double-step, memory-guided saccades, we reproduced the transfer of adaptation to leftward saccades with the visual frame but not without, suggesting that the coordinate system used for saccade planning, when the frame is visible, is allocentric rather than spatiotopic. With single-step, memory-guided saccades, adaptation transferred to leftward saccades, both with and without the visual frame, revealing a target localization in a coordinate system that is neither retinotopic nor allocentric. Finally, with single-step, visually guided saccades, the classical, unidirectional pattern of amplitude change was reproduced, revealing retinotopic coordinate coding. These experiments indicate that the same procedure of adaptation modifies saccadic planning in multiple coordinate systems in parallel—each of them revealed by the use of different saccade tasks in postadaptation.
Visual cues that are effective for contextual saccade adaptation
Authors: Azadi Reza , Harwood Mark R.
Published: March 2014

The accuracy of saccades, as maintained by saccade adaptation, has been shown to be context dependent: able to have different amplitude movements to the same retinal displacement dependent on motor contexts such as orbital starting location. There is conflicting evidence as to whether purely visual cues also effect contextual saccade adaptation and, if so, what function this might serve. We tested what visual cues might evoke contextual adaptation. Over 5 experiments, 78 naive subjects made saccades to circularly moving targets, which stepped outward or inward during the saccade depending on target movement direction, speed, or color and shape. To test if the movement or context postsaccade were critical, we stopped the postsaccade target motion ( experiment 4) or neutralized the contexts by equating postsaccade target speed to an intermediate value ( experiment 5). We found contextual adaptation in all conditions except those defined by color and shape. We conclude that some, but not all, visual cues before the saccade are sufficient for contextual adaptation. We conjecture that this visual contextuality functions to allow for different motor states for different coordinated movement patterns, such as coordinated saccade and pursuit motor planning.
Task dependency of motor adaptations to an acute noxious stimulation
Authors: Hug François , Hodges Paul W. , Tucker Kylie
Published: March 2014

This study explored motor adaptations in response to an acute noxious stimulation during three tasks that differed in the number of available degrees of freedom. Fifteen participants performed three isometric force-matched tasks (single leg knee extension, single leg squat, and bilateral leg squat) in three conditions (Control, Pain, and Washout). Pain was induced by injection of hypertonic saline into the vastus medialis muscle (VM; left leg). Supersonic shear imaging was used to measure muscle shear elastic modulus as this is considered to be an index of muscle stress. Surface electromyography (EMG) was recorded bilaterally from six muscles to assess changes in neural strategies. During tasks with fewer degrees of freedom (knee extension and single leg squat task), there was no change in VM EMG amplitude or VM shear elastic modulus. In contrast, during the bilateral leg squat, VM (−32.9 ± 15.8%; P < 0.001) and vastus lateralis (−28.7 ± 14.8%; P < 0.001) EMG amplitude decreased during Pain. This decrease in activation was associated with reduced VM shear elastic modulus (−17.6 ± 23.3%; P = 0.029) and reduced force produced by the painful leg (−10.0 ± 10.2%; P = 0.046). This work provides evidence that when an obvious solution is available to decrease stress on painful tissue, this option is selected. It confirms the fundamental assumption that motor adaptations to pain aim to alter load on painful tissue to protect for further pain and/or injury. The lack of adaptation observed during force-matched tasks with fewer degrees of freedom might be explained by the limited potential to redistribute stress or a high cost induced by such a compensation.
A Socio Behavioural Perspective for Understanding and Managing Behaviour Problems in Children with Epilepsy
Authors: Cull C. A. , Brown S. W.
Published: March 2014

In this paper, reasons for the occurrence of interictal behaviour disturbance in children with epilepsy, and the management of such problems, are considered. The search for a direct relationship between epilepsy related variables and behaviour disorders is far from conclusive. While such a relationship may exist with respect to ictal behaviour problems, this line of investigation is of limited value in respect of its implications for the management of interictal problems. In the latter case it is proposed that organic factors may be considered to be a risk factor. In addition, the negative psychosocial sequelae of a diagnosis of epilepsy can result in conditions which are likely to foster the development of inappropriate behaviours. Learning theory would further suggest that environmental contingencies have a role to play in the shaping and maintenance of such behaviours. This broader framework for conceptualising the development and maintenance of interictal behaviour disorders has clear management implications. Clinical examples of the successful application of this approach to the management of persistent behavioural problems in two young people with epilepsy are presented.
Schizophrenia and Atypical Motor Features in a Case of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (The Steele-Richardson-Olszewski Syndrome)
Authors: Ovsiew F. , Schneider J.
Published: March 2014

Mental manifestations are characteristic of the syndrome described by Steele, Richardson, and Olszewski as progressive supranuclear palsy (SRO). Discussions emphasize cognitive aspects, namely the “subcortical dementia” for which the disease is prototypical, but personality change has been mentioned beginning with the earliest accounts. Psychosis has been virtually absent from neuropsychiatric descriptions, perhaps curiously so in view of the association between subcortical disease and delusions. We report here a case of autopsy-proven SRO in which a schizophrenia-like psychosis was a central feature.
Historical Evolution of Spatial Abilities
Authors: Ardila A.
Published: March 2014

Historical evolution and cross-cultural differences in spatial abilities are analyzed. Spatial abilities have been found to be significantly associated with the complexity of geographical conditions and survival demands. Although impaired spatial cognition is found in cases of, exclusively or predominantly, right hemisphere pathology, it is proposed that this asymmetry may depend on the degree of training in spatial abilities. It is further proposed that spatial cognition might have evolved in a parallel way with cultural evolution and environmental demands. Contemporary city humans might be using spatial abilities in some new, conceptual tasks that did not exist in prehistoric times: mathematics, reading, writing, mechanics, music, etc. Cross-cultural analysis of spatial abilities in different human groups, normalization of neuropsychological testing instruments, and clinical observations of spatial ability disturbances in people with different cultural backgrounds and various spatial requirements, are required to construct a neuropsychological theory of brain organization of spatial cognition.
Psychiatric Sequelae of Organophosphorous Poisoning: A Case Study and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bradwell R. H.
Published: March 2014

This is the case of a young farm worker presenting with episodes of acute organic psychosis superimposed on a state of chronic anergy and hypersomnia. It is suggested that he developed an encephalopathic illness presenting with an organic bipolar affective disorder as a result of organophosphate exposure. In proposing this aetiology, an hypothesis is developed which links clinical observations and investigative results with research findings in relation to organophosphorus compounds and neuropharmacology.
Neurogenic Stuttering and Lateralized Motor Deficits Induced by Tranylcypromine
Authors: Duffy J. D.
Published: March 2014

A case of neurogenic stuttering induced by the monoamine oxidase inhibitor tranylcypromine is described. The association of neurogenic stuttering with acquired lateralized motor deficits in the patient described is discussed with reference to current theories regarding the pathogenesis of neurogenic stuttering.
Verbal Short-Term Memory and Motor Speech Processes in Broca’s Aphasia
Authors: Goerlich C. , Daum I. , Hertrich I. , Ackermann H.
Published: March 2014

The present study investigated the relationship between verbal short-term memory and motor speech processes in healthy control subjects and five patients suffering from Broca's aphasia. Control subjects showed a phonological similarity effect, a word length effect and an articulatory suppression effect, supporting the hypothesis of a phonological store and an articulatory loop component of short-term memory. A similar effect of phonological similarity was observed in the aphasic patients, while the effects of word length and articulatory suppression were reduced. In control subjects, measures of short-term memory were correlated to measures of motor speech rate only if speech rate was assessed in more complex conditions (such as sentence rather than syllable repetition). There was also evidence of an association of speech impairment and short-term memory deficits in the aphasic patients.
Umbilical Cord Blood Lead Levels and Neonatal Behaviour
Authors: de Cáceres M. L. , Botet F. , Costas C. , Rosales S.
Published: March 2014

Negative correlations have been found between cord blood lead levels and scores on the Brazelton Neonatal Behaviour Assessment in 30 otherwise healthy newborns. Items in the Habituation, Orientation and Regulation of state clusters, particularly those items related to self-regulatory, self-quieting and auditory habituation, showed lower scores (worse performance) in those newborns with higher cord blood lead levels. These disturbances are potentially important since this type of behavior may interfere with the normal process of adaptation to their environment, leading to a less than optimal bonding between newborns and their carers.
Family History of Handedness and Language Problems in Mexican Reading-Disabled Children
Authors: Matute E. , Guajardo-Cárdenas S. , Ramírez-Dueñas M.-de-L.
Published: March 2014

A sample of 120 Spanish-speaking children, 60 with reading disabilities and 60 normal readers was studied. Individual and family history of handedness, language problems, and reading disabilities were analyzed in each case. The results suggest that reading disabilities are more common among boys, that associated language problems are frequent and that handedness is not a significant factor. Insofar as family history is concerned, there were more affected families and relatives in the reading disabled group than in the control group. Finally an association was established between the variables of handedness and language problems.
The Geschwind–Behan–Galaburda Model (GBGM) of Cerebral Lateralization: A Critique and Prospective
Authors: Braun C. M. J.
Published: March 2014

In the wake of, and as a complement to, a recently published major meta-analytic review of empirical support of the Geschwind–Behan–Galaburda model (GBGM) of cerebral lateralization (CL) the present brief essay attempts to present a critical assessment of the theoretical approach underlying the GBGM. The GBGM is criticized for having been misguided in its representation of the cerebral basis of handedness, and of the links between testosterone and immune function. Some guidelines are presented for the development of a general theory of CL, emphasizing animal research, greater interdisciplinary communication, a hierarchical model-building approach, and the relevance of neuropharmacology and psychiatry.
Recombinant Human Leptin Does Not Alter Gut Hormone Levels after Gastric Bypass but May Attenuate Sweet Cravings
Authors: Conroy Rushika , Febres Gerardo , McMahon Donald J. , Thorner Michael O. , Gaylinn Bruce D. , Conwell Irene , Aronne Louis , Korner Judith
Published: March 2014

Bariatric surgery improves glucose homeostasis and alters gut hormones partly independent of weight loss. Leptin plays a role in these processes; levels are decreased following bariatric surgery, creating a relative leptin insufficiency. We previously showed that leptin administration in a weight-reduced state after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) caused no further weight loss. Here, we discuss the impact of leptin administration on gut hormones, glucostasis, and appetite. Weight stable women after RYGB were randomized to receive placebo or recombinant human metreleptin (0.05 mg/kg twice daily). At weeks 0 and 16, a liquid meal challenge was performed. Glucose, insulin, C-peptide, GLP-1, PYY, glucagon, and ghrelin (total, acyl, and desacyl) were measured fasting and postprandially. Appetite was assessed using a visual analog scale. Mean post-op period was53±2.3months; mean BMI was34.6±0.2 kg/m2. At 16 weeks, there was no significant change in weight within or between groups. Fasting PYY was significantly different between groups and the leptin group had lower sweets craving at week 16 than the placebo group (P<0.05). No other differences were observed. Leptin replacement does not alter gut hormones or glucostasis but may diminish sweet cravings compared to placebo in this population of post-RYGB women.
Operation of Shared Systems via a Common Control System in a Multi-Modular Plant
Authors: Qianqian Jia , Xiaojin Huang , Liangju Zhang
Published: March 2014

Integral type reactors may need to be grouped to produce as much energy as a utility demands due to the small electrical output of an individual reactor. Sharing of systems among modules at a nuclear plant site is economically beneficial. Operation of systems shared between modules in a multi-modular plant is an issue never met in current NPPs, which may impact human performance. A design of operation of the shared systems via a common control system is presented as a technical approach to solve the problem. Modules and shared systems are controlled in independent network domains, respectively. Different from current NPPs, a limitation of operation authorities corresponding to certain modules and shared systems is defined to minimize the operation confusion between modules by one operator and to minimize the operation confusion of shared systems by different operators. Different characteristics of the shared system are analyzed, and different operation and control strategies are presented. An example is given as an application of the operation strategies. The operation design of the multi-modular system is in the preliminary stage, and, as an concept design, more verification and validation is needed in further works.
Fluorescence Enhancement of Fluorescent Unnatural Streptavidin by Binding of a Biotin Analogue with Spacer Tail and Its Application to Biotin Sensing
Authors: Zhu Xianwei , Shinohara Hiroaki
Published: March 2014

We designed a novel molecular biosensing system for the detection of biotin, an important vitamin by the combination of fluorescent unnatural streptavidin with a commercialized biotin-(AC5)2-hydrazide. A fluorescent unnatural amino acid, BODIPY-FL-aminophenylalanine (BFLAF), was position-specifically incorporated into Trp120 of streptavidin by four-base codon method. Fluorescence of the Trp120BFLAF mutant streptavidin was enhanced by the addition of biotin-(AC5)2-hydrazide with the concentration dependent, whereas fluorescence enhancement was not observed at all by the addition of natural biotin. It was considered that the spacer tail of biotin-(AC5)2-hydrazide may disturb the fluorescence quenching of the Trp120BFLAF by Trp79 and Trp108 of the neighbor subunit. Therefore, biotin sensing was carried out by the competitive binding reaction of biotin-(AC5)2-hydrazide and natural biotin to the fluorescent mutant streptavidin. The fluorescence intensity decreased by increasing free biotin concentration. The result suggested that molecular biosensor for small ligand could be successfully designed by the pair of fluorescent mutant binding protein and ligand analogue.
The Research of Nanoparticle and Microparticle Hydroxyapatite Amendment in Multiple Heavy Metals Contaminated Soil Remediation
Authors: Li Zhangwei , Zhou Man-man , Lin Weidian
Published: March 2014

It was believed that when hydroxyapatite (HAP) was used to remediate heavy metal‐contaminated soils, its effectiveness seemed likely to be affected by its particle size. In this study, a pot trial was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of two particle sizes of HAP: nanometer particle size of HAP (nHAP) and micrometer particle size of HAP (mHAP) induced metal immobilization in soils. Both mHAP and nHAP were assessed for their ability to reduce lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and chromium (Cr) bioavailability in an artificially metal‐contaminated soil. The pakchoi (Brassica chinensis L.) uptake and soil sequential extraction method were used to determine the immobilization and bioavailability of Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cr. The results indicated that both mHAP and nHAP had significant effect on reducing the uptake of Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cr by pakchoi. Furthermore, both mHAP and nHAP were efficient in covering Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cr from nonresidual into residual forms. However, mHAP was superior to nHAP in immobilization of Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cr in metal‐contaminated soil and reducing the Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cr utilized by pakchoi. The results suggested that mHAP had the better effect on remediation multiple metal‐contaminated soils than nHAP and was more suitable for applying in in situ remediation technology.
Voltage Controlled Intertwined Spiral Arrays for Reconfigurable Metasurfaces
Authors: Vallecchi A. , Langley R. J. , Schuchinsky A. G.
Published: March 2014

Reconfigurable bistate metasurfaces composed of interwoven spiral arrays with embeddedpindiodes are proposed for single and dual polarisation operation. The switching capability is enabled bypindiodes that change the array response between transmission and reflection modes at the specified frequencies. The spiral conductors forming the metasurface also supply the dc bias for controllingpindiodes, thus avoiding the need of additional bias circuitry that can cause parasitic interference and affect the metasurface response. The simulation results show that proposed active metasurfaces exhibit good isolation between transmission and reflection states, while retaining excellent angular and polarisation stability with the large fractional bandwidth (FBW) inherent to the original passive arrays.
Delayed Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Is Safe and Effective for Acute Severe Calculous Cholecystitis in Patients with Advanced Cirrhosis: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Yao Zhicheng , Hu Kunpeng , Huang Pingzhu , Huang He , Chen Xingui , Yang Peisheng , Liu Bo
Published: March 2014

Acute calculous cholecystitis is a common disease in cirrhotic patients. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy can resolve this problem but is performed based on the premise that the local inflammation must been controlled. An Initial ultrasound guided percutaneous transhepatic cholecystostomy may reduce the local inflammation and provide advantages in subsequent surgery. In this paper, we detailed our experience of treating acute severe calculous cholecystitis in patients with advanced cirrhosis by delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy plus initiated ultrasound guided percutaneous transhepatic cholecystostomy and provided the analysis of the treatment effect. We hope this paper can provided a kind of standard procedure for this special disease; however, further prospective comparative randomized trials are needed to assess this treatment in cirrhotic patients with acute cholecystitis.
New Similarity of Triangular Fuzzy Number and Its Application
Authors: Zhang Xixiang , Ma Weimin , Chen Liping
Published: March 2014

The similarity of triangular fuzzy numbers is an important metric for application of it. There exist several approaches to measure similarity of triangular fuzzy numbers. However, some of them are opt to be large. To make the similarity well distributed, a new method SIAM (Shape’s Indifferent Area and Midpoint) to measure triangular fuzzy number is put forward, which takes the shape’s indifferent area and midpoint of two triangular fuzzy numbers into consideration. Comparison with other similarity measurements shows the effectiveness of the proposed method. Then, it is applied to collaborative filtering recommendation to measure users’ similarity. A collaborative filtering case is used to illustrate users’ similarity based on cloud model and triangular fuzzy number; the result indicates that users’ similarity based on triangular fuzzy number can obtain better discrimination. Finally, a simulated collaborative filtering recommendation system is developed which uses cloud model and triangular fuzzy number to express users’ comprehensive evaluation on items, and result shows that the accuracy of collaborative filtering recommendation based on triangular fuzzy number is higher.
Fast Consensus Tracking of Multiagent Systems with Diverse Communication Delays and Input Delays
Authors: Yang Chun-xi , Hong Wei-xing , Huang Ling-yun , Wang Hua
Published: March 2014

The consensus tracking problem for discrete‐time multiagent systems with input and communication delays is studied. A sufficient condition is obtained over a directed graph based on the frequency‐domain analysis. Furthermore, a fast decentralized consensus tracking conditions based on
increment PID algorithm are discussed for improving convergence speed of the multiagent systems. Based on this result, genetic algorithm is introduced to construct increment PID based on genetic algorithm for obtaining optimization consensus tracking performance. Finally, a numerable example is given to compare convergence speed of three tracking algorithms in the same condition. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Thermal Fluid-Structure Interaction in the Effects of Pin-Through-Hole Diameter during Wave Soldering
Authors: Aziz M. S. Abdul , Abdullah M. Z. , Khor C. Y. , Fairuz Z. M. , Iqbal A. M. , Mazlan M. , Rasat Mohd Sukhairi Mat
Published: March 2014

An effective simulation approach is introduced in this paper to study the thermal fluid-structure interaction (thermal FSI) on the effect of pin-through-hole (PTH) diameter on the wave soldering zone. A 3D single PTH connector and a printed circuit board model were constructed to investigate the capillary flow behavior when passing through molten solder (63SnPb37). In the analysis, the fluid solver FLUENT was used to solve and track the molten solder advancement using the volume of fluid technique. The structural solver ABAQUS was used to examine the von Mises stress and displacement of the PTH connector in the wave soldering process. Both solvers were coupled by MpCCI software. The effects of six different diameter ratios (0.1 < d/ D < 0.97) were studied through a simulation modeling. The use of ratio d/ D = 0.2 yielded a balanced filling profile and low thermal stress. Results revealed that filling level, temperature, and displacement exhibited polynomial behavior to d/ D. Stress of pin varied quadratically with the d/ D. The predicted molten solder profile was validated by experimental results. The simulation results are expected to provide better visualization and understanding of the wave soldering process by considering the aspects of thermal FSI.
Lepton Flavour Violation Experiments
Authors: Cei F. , Nicolò D.
Published: March 2014

Lepton Flavour Violation in the charged lepton sector (CLFV) is forbidden in the Minimal Standard model and strongly suppressed in extensions of the model to include finite neutrino mixing. On the other hand, a wide class of Supersymmetric theories, even coupled with Grand Unification models (SUSY-GUT models), predict CLFV processes at a rate within the reach of new experimental searches operated with high resolution detectors at high intensity accelerators. As the Standard model background is negligible, the observation of one or more CLFV events would provide incontrovertible evidence for physics beyond Standard model, while a null effect would severely constrain the set of theory parameters. Therefore, a big experimental effort is currently (and will be for incoming years) accomplished to achieve unprecedented sensitivity on several CLFV processes. In this paper we review past and recent results in this research field, with focus on CLFV channels involving muons and tau's. We present currently operating experiments as well as future projects, with emphasis laid on how sensitivity enhancements are accompanied by improvements on detection techniques. Limitations due to systematic effects are also discussed in detail together with the solutions being adopted to overcome them.
Atherosclerosis and Atheroma Plaque Rupture: Normal Anatomy of Vasa Vasorum and Their Role Associated with Atherosclerosis
Authors: Sun Zhonghua
Published: March 2014

Atherosclerosis is primarily a degenerative disorder related to aging with a chronic inflammatory component. There are differences in expression among different vascular beds, inflicting a range of vascular diseases. The majority of studies focus on the inner and medial vascular layers, which are affected at the development of atherosclerosis. Recent evidence shows that the outer layer of blood vessels, composed of the adventitial layer and the vasa vasorum, not only plays a significant role in maintaining vessel integrity, but also reacts to atheroma. What is not clear is the extent of contribution of the outer layer to the process of atherosclerosis. Is it involved in the initiation, progression, and clinical expression of atheroma? Is the inflammation associated with atheroma limited to being merely reactive or is there a proactive element? This paper provides an overview of the normal anatomy of vasa vasorum and potential mechanism of plaque formation due to vascular injury (vasa vasorum) and microhemorrhage.
Care Seeking Behaviour and Barriers to Accessing Services for Sexual Health Problems among Women in Rural Areas of Tamilnadu State in India
Authors: Puthuchira Ravi Rejoice , Athimulam Kulasekaran Ravishankar
Published: March 2014

Background. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may be either asymptomatic or symptomatic. Regardless of the presence or absence of symptoms all STIs can lead to major complications if left untreated. Objective. To assess the care seeking behaviour and barriers to accessing services for sexual health problems among young married women in rural areas of Thiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu state in India. Methods. A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in 28 villages selected using multistage sampling technique for selecting 605 women in the age group of 15–24 years during July 2010–April 2011. Results. The prevalence rate of reproductive tract infections (RTIs) and STIs was observed to be 14.5% and 8.8%, respectively, among the study population. Itching/irritation over vulva, thick white discharge, discharge with unpleasant odor, and frequent and uncomfortable urination were most commonly experienced symptoms of sexual health problems. Around three-fourth of the women received treatment for sexual health problems. Perception of symptoms as normal, feeling shy, lack of female health workers, distance to health facility, and lack of availability of treatment were identified as major barriers for not seeking treatment for RTIs/STIs. Conclusion. Family tradition and poor socioeconomic conditions of the family appear to be the main reasons for not utilizing the health facility for sexual health problems. Integrated approach is strongly suggested for creating awareness to control the spread of sexual health problems among young people.
BMP-2 Overexpression Augments Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Motility by Upregulating Myosin Va via Erk Signaling
Authors: Zhang Ming , Yang Min , Liu Li-ping , Lau Wayne Bond , Gao Hai , Xin Man-kun , Su Li-Xiao , Wang Jian , Cheng Shu-Juan , Fan Qian , Liu Jing-Hua
Published: March 2014

Background.The disruption of physiologic vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration initiates atherosclerosis development. The biochemical mechanisms leading to dysfunctional VSMC motility remain unknown. Recently, cytokine BMP-2 has been implicated in various vascular physiologic and pathologic processes. However, whether BMP-2 has any effect upon VSMC motility, or by what manner, has never been investigated.Methods.VSMCs were adenovirally transfected to genetically overexpress BMP-2. VSMC motility was detected by modified Boyden chamber assay, confocal time-lapse video assay, and a colony wounding assay. Gene chip array and RT-PCR were employed to identify genes potentially regulated by BMP-2. Western blot and real-time PCR detected the expression of myosin Va and the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (Erk1/2). Immunofluorescence analysis revealed myosin Va expression locale. Intracellular Ca2+oscillations were recorded.Results.VSMC migration was augmented in VSMCs overexpressing BMP-2 in a dose-dependent manner. siRNA-mediated knockdown of myosin Va inhibited VSMC motility. Both myosin Va mRNA and protein expression significantly increased after BMP-2 administration and were inhibited by Erk1/2 inhibitor U0126. BMP-2 induced Ca2+oscillations, generated largely by a “cytosolic oscillator”.Conclusion.BMP-2 significantly increased VSMCs migration and myosin Va expression, via the Erk signaling pathway and intracellular Ca2+oscillations. We provide additional insight into the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis, and inhibition of BMP-2-induced myosin Va expression may represent a potential therapeutic strategy.
Cluster-Based Localisation Method for Dense WSN: A Distributed Balance between Accuracy and Complexity Fixed by Cluster Size
Authors: Marcelín-Jiménez R. , Rodriguez-Colina E. , Pascoe-Chalke M. , Moreno-Escobar C. , Marzo J. L.
Published: March 2014

Localisation is a fundamental requirement for a monitoring and tracking system based on wireless sensor networks (WSN). In order to build an accurate set of measurements, sensor nodes must have information regarding their own position within a system of coordinates. When a considerable number of nodes are randomly scattered over a monitoring area, sensor nodes must be part of a self-organised system which provides a set of local position estimates. Nodes participate under very stringent conditions, for example, limited power supply and reduced computational capabilities. This work presents a GPS-free localisation method consisting of four stages that are executed only once during the network initialisation process. These stages are aimed to increase the overall system lifetime by reducing the signalling overhead commonly involved in distributed localisation procedures. The proposed localisation method turns the initial and complex node deployment to several smaller instances by dividing the network into clusters, which can be solved simultaneously based on local resources only. Simulation results show that this approach produces important savings in the involved overall complexity, which can translate into a trade-off between computational cost and localisation accuracy.
On the Shape of Limit Cycles That Bifurcate from Isochronous Center
Authors: Chen Guang , Wu Yuhai
Published: March 2014

New idea and algorithm are proposed to compute asymptotic expression of limit cycles bifurcated from the isochronous center. Compared with known inverse integrating factor method, new algorithm to analytically computing shape of limit cycle proposed in this paper is simple and easy to apply. The applications of new algorithm to some examples are also given.
Topology Property Based on Network Tomography for Wireless Mobile Multihop Communication Network
Authors: Qin Danyang , Ma Lin , Ding Qun
Published: March 2014

The random movement of nodes makes the dynamic topology structure be one of the most important characteristics in wireless multihop communication network, which makes the description and quantization of the dynamic property the very foundation of the design, simulation, and measurement for this kind of network. The distributions of the link duration and the topology duration will be derived and verified by simulations. Then, the topology flapping sensing method has been put forward based on TTL. Finally, the probability model of the topology stability in the measurement time has been established and calculated based on network tomography for wireless mobile multihop communication network in this paper. Simulating results verify the correctness and efficiency of the approach, which will provide the technique basis of research on the dynamic property and end-to-end measurement for wireless mobile multihop communication network.
A Patient-Centered Electronic Tool for Weight Loss Outcomes after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Wood G. Craig , Benotti Peter , Gerhard Glenn S. , Miller Elaina K. , Zhang Yushan , Zaccone Richard J. , Argyropoulos George A. , Petrick Anthony T. , Still Christopher D.
Published: March 2014

Background. Current patient education and informed consent regarding weight loss expectations for bariatric surgery candidates are largely based on averages from large patient cohorts. The variation in weight loss outcomes illustrates the need for establishing more realistic weight loss goals for individual patients. This study was designed to develop a simple web-based tool which provides patient-specific weight loss expectations.Methods. Postoperative weight measurements after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) were collected and analyzed with patient characteristics known to influence weight loss outcomes. Quantile regression was used to create expected weight loss curves (25th, 50th, and 75th %tile) for the 24 months after RYGB. The resulting equations were validated and used to develop web-based tool for predicting weight loss outcomes.Results. Weight loss data from 2986 patients (2608 in the primary cohort and 378 in the validation cohort) were included. Preoperative body mass index (BMI) and age were found to have a high correlation with weight loss accomplishment (P<0.0001for each). An electronic tool was created that provides easy access to patient-specific, 24-month weight loss trajectories based on initial BMI and age.Conclusions. This validated, patient-centered electronic tool will assist patients and providers in patient teaching, informed consent, and postoperative weight loss management.
Fault Diagnosis System Based on Multiagent Technique for Ship Power System
Authors: Wang Zheng , Xia Li , Wang Yongji , Liu Lei
Published: March 2014

Fault diagnosis system of ship power system can assist the crew to deal with faults, shorten the processing time, and prevent faults expanding. Multiagent technique is adopted for the fault diagnosis system. Ship power system is divided into several feeder units. Each one is abstracted as a regional feeder agent (FED‐Agent). A multiagent fault diagnosis system is established with FED‐Agent and other functional agents. Considering of the characteristics of agent, the multiagent system processes both autonomy and interactivity. It can solve fault diagnosis problem of ship power system effectively.
Peristaltic Flow of a Nanofluid under the Effect of Hall Current and Porous Medium
Authors: Nowar Khalid
Published: March 2014

The problem of peristaltic flow of an incompressible viscous electrically conducting nanofluid in a vertical asymmetric channel through a porous medium is investigated by taking the Hall effects into account. The governing equations are formulated and simplified under the assumptions of long wavelength and low Reynolds number. The solutions for temperature and nanoparticle profiles are obtained by using the homotopy perturbation method (HPM) and closed form solutions for stream function and pressure gradient are developed. Finally, the effects of various emerging parameters on the physical quantities of interest are plotted and discussed.
Recursive Estimation for Dynamical Systems with Different Delay Rates Sensor Network and Autocorrelated Process Noises
Authors: Feng Jianxin
Published: March 2014

The recursive estimation problem is studied for a class of uncertain dynamical systems with different delay rates sensor network and autocorrelated process noises. The process noises are assumed to be autocorrelated across time and the autocorrelation property is described by the covariances between different time instants. The system model under consideration is subject to multiplicative noises or stochastic uncertainties. The sensor delay phenomenon occurs in a random way and each sensor in the sensor network has an individual delay rate which is characterized by a binary switching sequence obeying a conditional probability distribution. By using the orthogonal projection theorem and an innovation analysis approach, the desired recursive robust estimators including recursive robust filter, predictor, and smoother are obtained. Simulation results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approaches.
Computational Analysis of Propulsion Performance of Modified Pitching Motion Airfoils in Laminar Flow
Authors: Xie Yonghui , Lu Kun , Zhang Di , Xie Gongnan
Published: March 2014

The thrust generation performance of airfoils with modified pitching motion was investigated by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling two‐dimensional laminar flow at Reynolds number of 104. The effect of shift distance of the pitch axis outside the chord line (R), reduced frequency (k), pitching amplitude (θ), pitching profile, and airfoil shape (airfoil thickness and camber) on the thrust generated and efficiency were studied. The results reveal that the increase in R and k leads to an enhancement in thrust generation and a decrease in propulsive efficiency. Besides, there exists an optimal range of θ for the maximum thrust and the increasing θ induces a rapid decrease in propulsive efficiency. Six adjustable parameters (K) were employed to realize various nonsinusoidal pitching profiles. An increase in K results in more thrust generated at the cost of decreased propulsive efficiency. The investigation of the airfoil shape effect reveals that there exists an optimal range of airfoil thickness for the best propulsion performance and that the vortex structure is strongly influenced by the airfoil thickness, while varying the camber or camber location of airfoil sections offers no benefit in thrust generation over symmetric airfoil sections.
Complex Dynamics of Credit Risk Contagion with Time-Delay and Correlated Noises
Authors: Chen Tingqiang , Li Xindan , He Jianmin
Published: March 2014

The stochastic time-delayed system of credit risk contagion driven by correlated Gaussian white noises is investigated. Novikov’s theorem, the time-delay approximation, the path-integral approach, and first-order perturbation theory are used to derive time-delayed Fokker-Planck model and the stationary probability distribution function of the dynamical system of credit risk contagion in the financial market. Using the method of numerical simulation, the Hopf bifurcation and chaotic behaviors of credit risk contagion are analyzed when time-delay and nonlinear resistance coefficient are varied and the effects of time-delay, nonlinear resistance and the intensity and the correlated degree of correlated Gaussian white noises on the stationary probability distribution of credit risk contagion are investigated. It is found that, as the infectious scale of credit risk and the wavy frequency of credit risk contagion are increased, the stability of the system of credit risk contagion is reduced, the dynamical system of credit risk contagion gives rise to chaotic phenomena, and the chaotic area increases gradually with the increase in time-delay. The nonlinear resistance only influences the infectious scale and range of credit risk, which is reduced when the nonlinear resistance coefficient increases. In addition, the curve of the stationary probability distribution is monotone decreasing with the increase in parameters value of time-delay, nonlinear resistance, and the intensity and the correlated degree of correlated Gaussian white noises.
Modeling of Duck Density and Complex Stocking Time in Rice‐Duck Agroecosystems in Terms of Economic and Ecological Benefits
Authors: Xiong Dahong , Fang Kui , Luo Ying , Dai Xiaopeng
Published: March 2014

Rice‐duck integrated farming is an effective step under today’s sustainable development background. To make better economic and ecological benefits, a rice‐duck agroecosystem is established and kept, in which the paddy field, rice, and the duck mutually promote one another. But the duck density and complex stocking time must be rationally selected. Aiming to attain quantitative assessment and optimal selection of the duck density and complex stocking time in this kind of systems, a methodology based on proposed mathematical models in terms of comparative economic and ecological benefits is addressed. Then the models are solved by a hybrid intelligent algorithm NN-GA that integrates the Neural Networks (NN) and Genetic Algorithm (GA), making use of the fitting ability in nonlinear fitness context of Neural Networks and the optimization ability of the Genetic Algorithm. Besides, numerical examples are demonstrated in order to test the proposed models. Results reveal that the methodology is reasonable and feasible.
Ammonia Gas Detection by Tannic Acid Functionalized and Reduced Graphene Oxide at Room Temperature
Authors: Yoo Sweejiang , Li Xin , Wu Yuan , Liu Weihua , Wang Xiaoli , Yi Wenhui
Published: March 2014

Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) based chemiresistor gas sensor has received much attention in gas sensing for high sensitivity, room temperature operation, and reversible. Here, for the first time, we present a promising chemiresistor for ammonia gas detection based on tannic acid (TA) functionalized and reduced graphene oxide (rGOTA functionalized). Green reductant of TA plays a major role in both reducing process and enhancing the gas sensing properties of rGOTA functionalized. Our results show rGOTA functionalized only selective to ammonia with excellent respond, recovery, respond time, and recovery times. rGOTA functionalized electrical resistance decreases upon exposure to NH3 where we postulated that it is due to n‐doping by TA and charge transfer between rGOTA functionalized and NH3 through hydrogen bonding. Furthermore, rGOTA functionalized hinders the needs for stimulus for both recovery and respond. The combination of greener sensing material and simplicity in overall sensor design provides a new sight for green reductant approach of rGO based chemiresistor gas sensor.