bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECT OF CORONA DISCHARGES ON THE INCEPTION OF POSITIVE UPWARD LEADER-STREAMER SYSTEM
Authors: WU CHUANQI , XIE SHIJUN , QI FEI , LI BEIBEI , WAN JUNBIAO , HE JUNJIA
Published: September 2013

The critical-charge criterion of the stem-leader transition and the shielding effects of space charges on the streamer inception are two most contested issues on the inception of positive upward leader–streamer system (LSS). In this paper, a series of simulation experiments on the LSS inception were designed and carried out. A new critical-charge criterion in the range of 0.2–0.3 μC was proposed, and the previous criterion of 1.0 μC was proved to be harsh. The shielding effect of positive space charges on the streamer inception was verified directly by the experiment results. A theoretical formula for calculating the LSS inception voltage by the first-corona inception voltage was obtained. An appropriate first-corona inception time for getting an earlier LSS inception was proved to be existent. At last, the effects of the so-called improved lightning rods, such as the early streamer emission rod (ESE) and the controllable lightning rod (CL), were discussed, and it seemed that they would not help to extend the protective zones of the lightning rods.
Unsaturated subsurface flow with surface water and nonlinear in- and outflow conditions
Authors: Berninger Heiko , Ohlberger Mario , Sander Oliver , Smetana Kathrin
Published: September 2013

We analytically and numerically analyze groundwater flow in a homogeneous soil described by the Richards equation, coupled to surface water represented by a set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) on parts of the domain boundary, and with nonlinear outflow conditions of Signorini's type. The coupling of the partial differential equation (PDE) and the ODE's is given by nonlinear Robin boundary conditions. This paper provides two major new contributions regarding these infiltration conditions. First, an existence result for the continuous coupled problem is established with the help of a regularization technique. Second, we analyze and validate a solver-friendly discretization of the coupled problem based on an implicit–explicit time discretization and on finite elements in space. The discretized PDE leads to convex spatial minimization problems which can be solved efficiently by monotone multigrid. Numerical experiments are provided using the DUNE numerics framework.
Amplitude–phase decompositions and the growth and decay of solutions of the incompressible Navier–Stokes and Euler equations
Authors: Hughes Thomas J. R.
Published: September 2013

We introduce the concept of amplitude–phase decompositions and apply it to the study of growth and decay of solutions of the incompressible Navier–Stokes and Euler equations. Amplitudes coincide with functionals of physical and mathematical interest. We are able to explicitly solve for the amplitudes in terms of the phases. The results obtained provide insights into the growth and decay of enstrophy and viscous dissipation, and identify new criteria for solutions to remain smooth for all time or blow-up in finite time.
THE MODULI PROBLEM OF LOBB AND ZENTNER AND THE COLORED 𝔰𝔩(N) GRAPH INVARIANT
Authors: GRANT JONATHAN
Published: September 2013

Motivated by a possible connection between the SU (N) instanton knot Floer homology of Kronheimer and Mrowka and 𝔰𝔩(N) Khovanov–Rozansky homology, Lobb and Zentner recently introduced a moduli problem associated to colorings of trivalent graphs of the kind considered by Murakami, Ohtsuki and Yamada in their state-sum interpretation of the quantum 𝔰𝔩(N) knot polynomial. For graphs with two colors, they showed this moduli space can be thought of as a representation variety, and that its Euler characteristic is equal to the 𝔰𝔩(N) polynomial of the graph evaluated at 1. We extend their results to graphs with arbitrary colorings by irreducible anti-symmetric representations of 𝔰𝔩(N).
A SERIES OF MONODISPERSE SILVER NANOPARTICLES BY A ONE-POT SYNTHESIS
Authors: TANG LUPING , YE YONGHONG , ZHANG HUICHAO , LIAO CHEN , ZONG SHENFEI , CUI YIPING , ZHANG JIAYU
Published: September 2013

A series of monodisperse Ag nanoparticles ( Ag NPs), whose size can be tuned between 2 nm and 34 nm, have been successfully synthesized in one pot by controlling the growth time. The standard deviation of the small-size Ag NPs is 12% while that of the large-size ones is 15%. During the synthesis process, sodium borohydride and sodium dodecyl sulfate were used as reducing agent and surfactant, respectively, and the effect of the synthesis parameters on the size-tuning range and the size distribution of Ag NPs was studied to get the optimum growth condition. Moreover, surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra were analyzed to explore the synthesis mechanism of Ag NPs.
TAXOL INDUCES CELL DEATH WITH CYTOPLASM VACUOLIZATION IN PARAPTOSIS-LIKE BUT NOT ONCOSIS FASHION IN ASTC-a-1 CELLS
Authors: QUAN YING-YAO , WANG CHAOYANG , WANG XIAO-PING , CHEN TONG-SHENG
Published: September 2013

Recently, we found that high concentration of taxol (70 μM) induced cell death with cytoplasm vacuolization, the typical characteristic of both paraptosis and oncosis, in human lung carcinoma (ASTC-a-1) cells. This report was designed to further determine the form of taxol-induced cell death with cytoplasm vacuolization. It is generally considered that the cytoplasm vacuolization in oncosis due to the swelling of endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mitochondria, lysosomes and nuclei occurs after the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). However, flow cytometry (FCM) analysis showed that taxol-induced cytoplasm vacuolization preceded the loss of ΔΨm. Moreover, taxol treatment did not induce the collapse of microtubule, the typical characteristic of oncosis. These data demonstrated that taxol-induced cell death with cytoplasm vacuolization is not oncosis. FCM analysis by Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis detection kit further demonstrated that taxol-induced cell death with cytoplasm vacuolization is not apoptosis. In conclusion, in combination with our recent in vitro and in vivo data, this report further demonstrates that high concentration of taxol induces cell death with cytoplasm vacuolization in paraptosis-like but not oncosis fashion.
Central losartan attenuates increases in arterial pressure and expression of FosB/ΔFosB along the autonomic axis associated with chronic intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Knight W. David , Saxena Ashwini , Shell Brent , Nedungadi T. Prashant , Mifflin Steven W. , Cunningham J. Thomas
Published: September 2013

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) increases mean arterial pressure (MAP) and FosB/ΔFosB staining in central autonomic nuclei. To test the role of the brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in CIH hypertension, rats were implanted with intracerebroventricular (icv) cannulae delivering losartan (1 μg/h) or vehicle (VEH) via miniosmotic pumps and telemetry devices for arterial pressure recording. A third group was given the same dose of losartan subcutaneously (sc). Two groups of losartan-treated rats served as normoxic controls. Rats were exposed to CIH or normoxia for 7 days and then euthanized for immunohistochemistry. Intracerebroventricular losartan attenuated CIH-induced increases in arterial pressure during CIH exposure (0800-1600 during the light phase) on days 1, 6, and 7 and each day during the normoxic dark phase. FosB/ΔFosB staining in the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis (OVLT), median preoptic nucleus (MnPO), paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM), and the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) was decreased in icv losartan-treated rats. Subcutaneous losartan also reduced CIH hypertension during the last 2 days of CIH and produced bradycardia prior to the effect on blood pressure. Following sc losartan, FosB/ΔFosB staining was reduced only in the OVLT, MnPO, PVN, and NTS. These data indicate that the central and peripheral RAS contribute to CIH-induced hypertension and transcriptional activation of autonomic nuclei and that the contribution of the central RAS is greater during the normoxic dark phase of CIH hypertension.
Synaptic and extrasynaptic transmission of kidney-related neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla
Authors: Gao Hong , Derbenev Andrei V.
Published: September 2013

The rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) is a critical component of the sympathetic nervous system regulating homeostatic functions including arterial blood pressure. Using the transsynaptic retrograde viral tracer PRV-152, we identified kidney-related neurons in the RVLM. We found that PRV-152-labeled RVLM neurons displayed an unusually large persistent, tonic current to both glutamate, via N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and 2-amino-3-(3-hydroxy-5-methyl-isoxazol-4-yl)propanoic acid (AMPA)/kainate receptors, and to γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), via GABAAreceptors, in the absence of large-scale phasic neurotransmission with whole cell patch-clamp recordings. A cocktail of potent NMDA and AMPA/kainate ionotropic glutamate receptor antagonists AP-5 (50 μM) and CNQX (10 μM) revealed a two-component somatic tonic excitatory current with an overall amplitude of 42.6 ± 13.4 pA. Moreover, application of the GABAAreceptor blockers gabazine (15 μM) and bicuculline (30 μM) revealed a robust somatic tonic inhibitory current with an average amplitude of 196.3 ± 39.3 pA. These findings suggest that the tonic current plays a role in determining the resting membrane potential, input resistance, and firing rate of RVLM neurons. The magnitude of the tonic inhibitory current demonstrates that GABAergic inhibition plays a critical role in regulation of kidney-related RVLM neurons. Our results indicate that the GABAergic tonic current may determine the basal tone of firing activity in kidney-related RVLM neurons.
Optical imaging of cortical networks via intracortical microstimulation
Authors: Brock Andrea A. , Friedman Robert M. , Fan Reuben H. , Roe Anna W.
Published: September 2013

Understanding cortical organization is key to understanding brain function. Distinct neural networks underlie the functional organization of the cerebral cortex; however, little is known about how different nodes in the cortical network interact during perceptual processing and motor behavior. To study cortical network function we examined whether the optical imaging of intrinsic signals (OIS) reveals the functional patterns of activity evoked by electrical cortical microstimulation. We examined the effects of current amplitude, train duration, and depth of cortical stimulation on the hemodynamic response to electrical microstimulation (250-Hz train, 0.4-ms pulse duration) in anesthetized New World monkey somatosensory cortex. Electrical stimulation elicited a restricted cortical response that varied according to stimulation parameters and electrode depth. Higher currents of stimulation recruited more areas of cortex than smaller currents. The largest cortical responses were seen when stimulation was delivered around cortical layer 4. Distinct local patches of activation, highly suggestive of local projections, around the site of stimulation were observed at different depths of stimulation. Thus we find that specific electrical stimulation parameters can elicit activation of single cortical columns and their associated columnar networks, reminiscent of anatomically labeled networks. This novel functional tract tracing method will open new avenues for investigating relationships of local cortical organization.
Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Available for Production of a Pediatric Bioabsorbable Stent
Authors: Alexy Ryan D. , Levi Daniel S.
Published: September 2013

Transcatheter treatment of children with congenital heart disease such as coarctation of the aorta and pulmonary artery stenosis currently involves the use of metal stents. While these provide good short term results, there are long term complications with their use. Children outgrow metal stents, obligating them to future transcatheter dilations and eventual surgical removal. A bioabsorbable stent, or a stent that goes away with time, would solve this problem. Bioabsorbable stents are being developed for use in coronary arteries, however these are too small for use in pediatric congenital heart disease. A bioabsorbable stent for use in pediatric congenital heart disease needs to be low profile, expandable to a diameter 8 mm, provide sufficient radial strength, and absorb quickly enough to allow vessel growth. Development of absorbable coronary stents has led to a great understanding of the available production techniques and materials such as bioabsorbable polymers and biocorrodable metals. Children with congenital heart disease will hopefully soon benefit from the current generation of bioabsorbable and biocorrodable materials and devices.
The Boundedness and Exponential Stability Criterions for Nonlinear Hybrid Neutral Stochastic Functional Differential Equations
Authors: Zong Xiaofeng , Wu Fuke , Huang Chengming
Published: September 2013

Neutral differential equations have been used to describe the systems that not only depend on the present and past states but also involve derivatives with delays. This paper considers hybrid nonlinear neutral stochastic functional differential equations (HNSFDEs) without the linear growth condition and examines the boundedness and exponential stability. Two illustrative examples are given to show the effectiveness of our theoretical results.
Validation of the Dynamic Direct Exposure Method for Toxicity Testing of Diesel Exhaust In Vitro
Authors: Joeng Lucky , Hayes Amanda , Bakand Shahnaz
Published: September 2013

Diesel exhaust emission is a major health concern because of the complex nature of its gaseous content (e.g., NO2, NO, CO, and CO2) and high concentration of particulate matter (PM) less than 2.5 μm which allows for deeper penetration into the human pulmonary system upon inhalation. The aim of this research was to elucidate the potential toxic effects of diesel exhaust on a human pulmonary-based cellular system. Validation of a dynamic direct exposure method for both laboratory (230 hp Volvo truck engine) and field (Volkswagen Passat passenger car) diesel engines, at idle mode, was implemented. Human pulmonary type II epithelial cells (A549) grown on porous membranes were exposed to unmodified diesel exhaust at a low flow rate (37.5 mL/min). In parallel, diesel emission sampling was also conducted using real-time air monitoring techniques. Induced cellular effects were assessed using a range of in vitro cytotoxicity assays (MTS, ATP, and NRU). Reduction of cell viability was observed in a time-dependent manner following 30–60 mins of exposure with NRU as the most sensitive assay. The results suggest that the dynamic direct exposure method has the potential to be implemented for both laboratory- and field-based in vitro toxicity studies of diesel exhaust emissions.
The Characterization of Deqi during Moxibustion in Stroke Rats
Authors: Lv Zhimai , Liu Zhongyong , Huang Dandan , Chen Rixin , Xie Dingyi
Published: September 2013

The efficacy of acupuncture and moxibustion is closely related to Deqi phenomenons, which are some subjective feelings. However, no one has reported the objective characterization of Deqi. Our preliminary research has found a phenomenon of tail temperature increasing (TTI) obviously in some stroke rats by suspended moxibustion at the acupoint dà zhuī (DU 14), which is similar to one characterization of Deqi during moxibustion that moxibustion heat is transferred from the original moxibustion acupoint to the other areas of the body. We wonder whether TTI is the objective indicator of Deqi characterization in animals. The present study showed that the stroke rat’s recovery was also associated with TTI phenomenon. This suggests that TTI phenomenon is one objective characterization of the Deqi in stroke rats. Application of the TTI phenomenon contributes to explore the physiological mechanism of Deqi.
An Assessment of Hazards Caused by Electromagnetic Interaction on Humans Present near Short-Wave Physiotherapeutic Devices of Various Types Including Hazards for Users of Electronic Active Implantable Medical Devices (AIMD)
Authors: Karpowicz Jolanta , Gryz Krzysztof
Published: September 2013

Leakage of electromagnetic fields (EMF) from short-wave radiofrequency physiotherapeutic diathermies (SWDs) may cause health and safety hazards affecting unintentionally exposed workers (W) or general public (GP) members (assisting patient exposed during treatment or presenting there for other reasons). Increasing use of electronic active implantable medical devices (AIMDs), by patients, attendants, and workers, needs attention because dysfunctions of these devices may be caused by electromagnetic interactions. EMF emitted by 12 SWDs (with capacitive or inductive applicators) were assessed following international guidelines on protection against EMF exposure (International Commission on Nonionizing Radiation Protection for GP and W, new European directive 2013/35/EU for W, European Recommendation for GP, and European Standard EN 50527-1 for AIMD users). Direct EMF hazards for humans near inductive applicators were identified at a distance not exceeding 45 cm for W or 62 cm for GP, but for AIMD users up to 90 cm (twice longer than that for W and 50% longer than that for GP because EMF is pulsed modulated). Near capacitive applicators emitting continuous wave, the corresponding distances were: 120 cm for W or 150 cm for both—GP or AIMD users. This assessment does not cover patients who undergo SWD treatment (but it is usually recommended for AIMD users to be careful with EMF treatment).
Boundary Value Problems for the Classical and Mixed Integrodifferential Equations with Riemann-Liouville Operators
Authors: Islomov B. , Baltaeva U. I.
Published: September 2013

By method of integral equations, unique solvability is proved for the solution of boundary value problems of loaded third-order integrodifferential equations with Riemann-Liouville operators.
Genetic Analysis and Molecular Identification of Virulence in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Isolates
Authors: Onasanya Amos , Onasanya R. O. , Ojo Abiodun A. , Adewale B. O.
Published: September 2013

Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) of rice is a very destructive disease worldwide and is caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo). The aim of the present study was to examine if the Xoo virulence pathotypes obtained using phenotypic pathotyping could be confirmed using molecular approach. After screening of 60 Operon primers with genomic DNA of two Xoo isolates (virulent pathotype, Vr, and mildly virulent pathotype, MVr), 12 Operon primers that gave reproducible and useful genetic information were selected and used to analyze 50 Xoo isolates from 7 West African countries. Genetic analysis revealed two major Xoo virulence genotypes (Mta and Mtb) with Mta having two subgroups (Mta1 and Mta2). Mta1 (Vr1) subgroup genotype has occurrence in six countries and Mta2 (Vr2) in three countries while Mtb genotype characterized mildly virulence (MVr) Xoo isolates present in five countries. The study revealed possible linkage and correlation between phenotypic pathotyping and molecular typing of Xoo virulence. Xoo virulence genotypes were known to exist within country and there was evidence of Xoo pathogen migration between countries. Durable resistance rice cultivars would need to overcome both Mta and Mtb Xoo virulence genotypes in order to survive after their deployment into different rice ecologies in West Africa.
An Unusual Extremely Distant Noncommunicating Uterine Horn with Myoma and Adenomyosis Treated with Laparoscopic Hemihysterectomy
Authors: Morelli Michele , Venturella Roberta , Mocciaro Rita , Lico Daniela , Zullo Fulvio
Published: September 2013

A 41-year-old woman referred to us with dysmenorrhea and severe pelvic pain although she was previously submitted to right laparotomic adnexectomy for ovarian endometrioma and to a subsequent operative laparoscopy for pelvic adhesions. After ultrasound examination, the patient underwent diagnostic hysteroscopy and operative laparoscopy which confirmed the clinic suspect of an unicornuate uterus. However, it was very unusual to see an extremely distanced right horn, without communication with uterus, without adnexa, and with a small myoma belonging to it. Moreover, omentum and bowel were attached to fundus of right horn and thick adhesions fixed it to rectum and right pelvic wall. Therefore, identification of anatomical structures was difficult, as it was extremely arduous to isolate the ureter, which was involved inside the adhesions surrounding the right uterine horn. Nevertheless, laparoscopic right hemihysterectomy was successfully performed and right horn was sent to our pathologist who recognized hypotrophic endometrium and adenomyosis.
The ALADINO Study: A National Study of Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in Spanish Children in 2011
Authors: Pérez-Farinós Napoleón , López-Sobaler Ana M. , Dal Re M. Ángeles , Villar Carmen , Labrado Estefanía , Robledo Teresa , Ortega Rosa M.
Published: September 2013

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children in Spain using different sets of cut-off criteria, through a community-based cross-sectional study. The study was conducted in a representative sample of Spanish children between 6 and 9 years, recruited in Spanish schools, between October 2010 and May 2011. 7,569 boys and girls were selected. All were weighed and measured, and their parents were asked about their socioeconomic background, food habits and physical activity. The BMI of each was calculated, and the prevalence of overweight and obesity was determined by age and sex using Spanish reference tables (SPART), IOTF reference values, and WHO growth standards. The prevalence of overweight in boys ranged from 14.1% to 26.7%, and in girls from 13.8% to 25.7%, depending on the cut-off criteria. The prevalence of obesity in boys ranged from 11.0% to 20.9%, and in girls from 11.2% to 15.5%. The prevalence of obesity was the highest among those same children when using the SPART or WHO criteria. Overweight and obesity remain widespreading among Spanish children; a consensus on the definition of overweight and obesity cut-off criteria is necessary.
QoS-Aware Fault Detection in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: De Paola Alessandra , Lo Re Giuseppe , Milazzo Fabrizio , Ortolani Marco
Published: September 2013

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are a fundamental building block of many pervasive applications. Nevertheless the use of such technology raises new challenges regarding the development of reliable and fault-tolerant systems. One of the most critical issues is the detection of corrupted readings amidst the huge amount of gathered sensory data. Indeed, such readings could significantly affect the quality of service (QoS) of the WSN, and thus it is highly desirable to automatically discard them. This issue is usually addressed through “fault detection” algorithms that classify readings by exploiting temporal and spatial correlations. Generally, these algorithms do not take into account QoS requirements other than the classification accuracy. This paper proposes a fully distributed algorithm for detecting data faults, taking into account the response time besides the classification accuracy. We adopt the Bayesian networks to perform classification of readings and the Pareto optimization to allow QoS requirements to be simultaneously satisfied. Our approach has been tested on a synthetic dataset in order to evaluate its behavior with respect to different values of QoS constraints. The experimental evaluation produced good results, showing that our algorithm is able to greatly reduce the response time at the cost of a small reduction in classification accuracy.
Computational Analysis of the Soluble Form of the Intracellular Chloride Ion Channel Protein CLIC1
Authors: Jones Peter M. , Curmi Paul M. G. , Valenzuela Stella M. , George Anthony M.
Published: September 2013

The chloride intracellular channel (CLIC) family of proteins has the remarkable property of maintaining both a soluble form and an integral membrane form acting as an ion channel. The soluble form is structurally related to the glutathione-S-transferase family, and CLIC can covalently bind glutathione via an active site cysteine. We report approximately 0.6 μs of molecular dynamics simulations, encompassing the three possible ligand-bound states of CLIC1, using the structure of GSH-bound human CLIC1. Noncovalently bound GSH was rapidly released from the protein, whereas the covalently ligand-bound protein remained close to the starting structure over 0.25 μs of simulation. In the unliganded state, conformational changes in the vicinity of the glutathione-binding site resulted in reduced reactivity of the active site thiol. Elastic network analysis indicated that the changes in the unliganded state are intrinsic to the protein architecture and likely represent functional transitions. Overall, our results are consistent with a model of CLIC function in which covalent binding of glutathione does not occur spontaneously but requires interaction with another protein to stabilise the GSH binding site and/or transfer of the ligand. The results do not indicate how CLIC1 undergoes a radical conformational change to form a transmembrane chloride channel but further elucidate the mechanism by which CLICs are redox controlled.
Comparative Analysis of Context-Dependent Mutagenesis in Humans and Fruit Flies
Authors: Medvedeva Sofya A. , Panchin Alexander Y. , Alexeevski Andrey V. , Spirin Sergey A. , Panchin Yuri V.
Published: September 2013

In general, mutation frequencies are context-dependent: specific adjacent nucleotides may influence the probability to observe a specific type of mutation in a genome. Recently, several hypermutable motifs were identified in the human genome. Namely, there is an increased frequency of T>C mutations in the second position of the words ATTG and ATAG and an increased frequency of A>C mutations in the first position of the word ACAA. Previous studies have also shown that there is a remarkable difference between the mutagenesis of humans and drosophila. While C>T mutations are overrepresented in the CG context in humans (and other vertebrates), this mutation regularity is not observed inDrosophila melanogaster. Such differences in the observed regularities of mutagenesis between representatives of different taxa might reflect differences in the mechanisms involved in mutagenesis. We performed a systematical comparison of mutation regularities within 2–4 bp contexts inHomo sapiensandDrosophila melanogasterand found that the aforementioned contexts are not hypermutable in fruit flies. It seems that most mutation contexts affect mutation rates in a similar manner inH. sapiensandD. melanogaster; however, several important exceptions are noted and discussed.
The Role of Nrf2: Adipocyte Differentiation, Obesity, and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Seo Hyun-Ae , Lee In-Kyu
Published: September 2013

Metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and obesity, are increasing globally, and much work has been performed to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of these diseases. Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a basic leucine zipper transcription factor that serves as a primary cellular defense against the cytotoxic effects of oxidative stress. Recent studies have proposed a close relationship between oxidative stress and energy metabolism-associated disease. The Nrf2 pathway, as a master regulator of cellular defense against oxidative stress, has emerged as a critical target of energy metabolism; however, its effects are controversial. This review examines the current state of research on the role of Nrf2 on energy metabolism, specifically with respect to its participation in adipocyte differentiation, obesity, and insulin resistance, and discusses the possibility of using Nrf2 as a therapeutic target in the clinic.
Cutting NiTi with Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Quintino L. , Liu L. , Miranda R. M. , Silva R. J. C. , Hu A. , Zhou Y.
Published: September 2013

Superelastic shape memory alloys are difficult to machine by thermal processes due to the facility for Ti oxidation and by mechanical processes due to their superelastic behavior. In this study, femtosecond lasers were tested to analyze the potential for machining NiTi since femtosecond lasers allow nonthermal processing of materials by ablation. The effect of processing parameters on machining depth was studied, and material removal rates were computed. Surfaces produced were analyzed under SEM which shows a resolidified thin layer with minimal heat affected zones. However, for high cutting speeds, that is, for short interaction times, this layer was not observed. A depletion of Ni was seen which may be beneficial in biomedical applications since Ni is known to produce human tissue reactions in biophysical environments.
Repair of a Post-Hepatectomy Posterior Sectoral Duct Injury Secondary to Anomalous Bile Duct Anatomy Using a Novel Combined Surgical-Interventional Radiologic Approach
Authors: Shanker Beth-Ann , Eng Oliver S. , Gendel Vyacheslav , Nosher John , Carpizo Darren R.
Published: September 2013

A 64-year-old woman with a completely transected posterior sectoral duct following extended hepatectomy underwent a combined operative procedure with interventional radiology and surgery to restore biliary-enteric drainage. The anterior and posterior sectoral ducts were identified, and catheters were inserted into both systems. The posterior sectoral catheter was placed intraoperatively through a preoperatively placed sheath, and a new tunnel was created through the regenerated liver surface. Biliary-enteric anastomoses were created over the stents.
Wear Behaviour of Eutectic Al-Si Alloy-Graphite Composites Fabricated by Combined Modified Two-Stage Stir Casting and Squeeze Casting Methods
Authors: Shanmughasundaram P. , Subramanian R.
Published: September 2013

Dry sliding wear behaviour of eutectic Al-Si alloy-graphite composites was investigated employing a pin-on-disc wear test rig. Results revealed that the wear and friction coefficients decreased linearly with increasing weight percentage of graphite particles. Wear resistance of the composite increased considerably with increasing sliding velocity at constant load. In contrast, the friction coefficient of Al-7.5 wt.% Gr composite increased when the sliding velocity was increased from 1 m/s to 2 m/s at 49 N. Worn-out surfaces of wear specimens after the test were examined by scanning electron microscopy to study the morphology of worn surfaces. EDS analysis was carried out to investigate the influence of mechanically mixed layer (MML) which comprises oxides and iron, and this acted as an effective tribolayer in enhancing the wear resistance at higher sliding velocity.
An Agent-Based Reasoning of Impacts of Regional Climate Changes on Land Use Changes in the Three-River Headwaters Region of China
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhan Jinyan , Huang Juan , Yu Rui , Shi Chenchen
Published: September 2013

The land surface in Three-River Headwaters Region (TRHR), a typical ecological fragile zone of China, is quite sensitive to the climate changes which will destabilize certain ecosystem services valuable to the entire nation and neighboring countries. This study aimed to analyze the impacts of climate changes and agents’ adaptive behaviors on the regional land use changes with the agent based model (ABM). First, the main agents were extracted according to the production resources endowments and socioeconomic background. Then the agents’ land use behaviors were analyzed and parameterized. Thereafter, the ABM model was built to simulate the impacts of the climate changes on the regional land use changes and agents’ economic benefits. The results showed that the land use changes were mainly characterized by the increase of grassland and decrease of unused land area. Besides, the agents would get more wealth under the scenario without climate changes in the long term, even though the total income is lower than that under the scenario with climate changes. In addition, the sensitivity analysis indicated that the model is sensitive to the climatic conditions, market price of agricultural and animal husbandry products, government subsidies, and cost control.
Pemphigoid Gestationis after Spontaneous Expulsion of a Massive Complete Hydatidiform Mole
Authors: Matsumoto Naoki , Osada Marie , Kaneko Kou , Ohara Ken , Noguchi Daito , Udagawa Haruhiko , Suzuki Nagazumi , Matsumoto Chieko , Takahashi Sachio
Published: September 2013

Pemphigoid gestationis (PG) is a rare, perinatal, autoimmune, and blistering dermatosis. Only few cases of PG involving hydatidiform moles have been reported. Complete hydatidiform moles are usually evacuated by dilatation and curettage. We report a patient with a massive complete hydatidiform mole that underwent spontaneous expulsion; she subsequently developed PG. A 19-year-old unmarried nulligravid woman was referred to our hospital following excessive vaginal bleeding after an uncertain amenorrheal period. The patient presented with preshock vital signs, severe anemia, and a positive urine pregnancy test. Imaging examinations revealed a massive intrauterine mass (19 × 15 × 10 cm), suggesting a complete hydatidiform mole. She was hospitalized and treated with blood transfusion. Sixteen hours after hospitalization, the massive molar mass underwent spontaneous expulsion and bleeding ceased. Three days after the expulsion, she developed pruritic skin lesions including papules, erythemas, and bullae, which spread over her entire body. Skin biopsy revealed PG and subepidermal blister formation and linear complement C3 deposition along the basement membrane zone, and the serum anti-BP180 antibody level was found to be high on measurement. She was effectively treated with 50 mg/day of oral prednisolone. Her skin lesions disappeared, leaving pigmentation.
Measurement of Cadmium Ion in the Presence of Metal‐Binding Biopolymers in Aqueous Sample
Authors: Pu Jian , Fukushi Kensuke
Published: September 2013

In aqueous environment, water‐soluble polymers are effectively used to separate free metal ions from metal‐polymer complexes. The feasibilities of four different analytical techniques, cadmium ion‐selective electrode, dialysis sack, chelate disk cartridge, and ultrafiltration, in distinguishing biopolymer‐bound and nonbound cadmium in aqueous samples were investigated. And two different biopolymers were used, including bovine serum albumin (BSA) and biopolymer solution extracted from cultivated activated sludge (ASBP). The ISE method requires relatively large amount of sample and contaminates sample during the pretreatment. After the long reaction time of dialysis, the equilibrium of cadmium in the dialysis sack would be shifted. Due to the sample nature, chelate disk cartridge could not filter within recommended time, which makes it unavailable for biopolymer use. Ultrafiltration method would not experience the difficulties mentioned above. Ultrafiltration method measuring both weakly and strongly bound cadmium was included in nominally biopolymer‐cadmium complex. It had significant correlation with the Ion‐selective electrode (ISE) method (R2 = 0.989 for BSA, 0.985 for ASBP).
Thin, Flexible Supercapacitors Made from Carbon Nanofiber Electrodes Decorated at Room Temperature with Manganese Oxide Nanosheets
Authors: Nataraj S. K. , Song Q. , Al-Muhtaseb S. A. , Dutton S. E. , Zhang Q. , Sivaniah E.
Published: September 2013

We report the fabrication and electrochemical performance of a flexible thin film supercapacitor with a novel nanostructured composite electrode. The electrode was prepared by in situ coprecipitation of two‐dimensional (2D) MnO2 nanosheets at room temperature in the presence of carbon nanofibers (CNFs). The highest specific capacitance of 142 F/g was achieved for CNFs‐MnO2 electrodes in sandwiched assembly with PVA‐H4SiW12O40· nH2O polyelectrolyte separator.
Field Measurement of Wind Effects of Roof Accessory Structures on Gable-Roofed Low-Rise Building
Authors: Huang Peng , Gu Ming , Jia Chun-guang , Quan Da-long
Published: September 2013

The components and claddings of low-rise buildings are usually destroyed first during typhoon disasters in coastal areas. Roof accessory structures can change the flow pattern on the roof, thus effectively reducing the wind load on the roof surface and the damage to the low-rise buildings. Three types of aerodynamic mitigation plates, that is, (1) 0.3 m high full-length roof-edge plate, (2) 0.3 m high and 0.5 m + 0.5 m long roof-corner plate, and (3) discrete roof-edge plates with different spaces (which can be used as advertisement boards), are studied on the basis of the field measurement results under roof pitches of 10° and 18.4°. By comparing the results of the roof with and without constructed plates, it is implied that the three types of plates can affect the formation of conical vortexes and can significantly reduce the mean and fluctuating pressure coefficients in the windward corner. Compared with the constructed plate, the roof ridge has a larger influence on the wind loads on leeward roof.
Fixed-Point Theorems in Complete Gauge Spaces and Applications to Second-Order Nonlinear Initial-Value Problems
Authors: Cherichi Meryam , Samet Bessem , Vetro Calogero
Published: September 2013

We establish fixed-point results for mappings and cyclic mappings satisfying a generalized contractive condition in a complete gauge space. Our theorems generalize and extend some fixed-point results in the literature. We apply our obtained results to the study of existence and uniqueness of solution to a second-order nonlinear initial-value problem.
Structural Analysis of Respirasomes in Electron Transfer Pathway of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans: A Computer-Aided Molecular Designing Study
Authors: Patra Mahesh Chandra , Pradhan Sukanta Kumar , Rath Surya Narayan , Maharana Jitendra
Published: September 2013

Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans obtains its metabolic energy by reducing extracellular ferrous iron with either downhill or uphill electron transfer pathway. The downhill electron transfer pathway has been substantially explored in recent years to underpin the mechanism of iron respiration but, there exists a wide gap in our present understanding on how these proteins are organized as a supercomplex and what sort of atomic level interactions governs their stability in the iron respiratory chain. In the present study, we aimed at unraveling the structural basis of supermolecular association of respirasomes using protein threading, protein-protein docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation protocols. Our results revealed that Phe312 of outer membrane cytochrome c plays a crucial role in diffusing electrons from heme C group to Asp73 of rusticyanin. In line with the previous experimental results, His143 of rusticyanin was found to have a stable interaction with Glu121 of periplasmic cytochrome c4. Cytochrome c4 interacts with subunit B of cytochrome c oxidase through Lys146 and Thr148 of the conserved hydrophobic/aromatic motif 145-WKWTFSY-151 to attain stability during simulation. Phe468 of cytochrome c oxidase was found indispensable for stabilizing heme aa3 during MD simulation. Taken together, we conclude that the molecular interactions of charged and hydrophobic amino acids present on the surface of each respirasome form a hypothetical electron wire in the iron respiratory supercomplex of A. ferrooxidans.
Generalized Lorentz Spaces and Applications
Authors: Mejjaoli Hatem
Published: September 2013

We define and study the Lorentz spaces associated with the Dunkl operators onℝd. Furthermore, we obtain the Strichartz estimates for the Dunkl-Schrödinger equations under the generalized Lorentz norms. The Sobolev inequalities between the homogeneous Dunkl-Besov spaces and generalized Lorentz spaces are also considered.
Simulation Research of Space-Time Evolution of Emergency Logistics Network Reliability Based on Complex Network Theory
Authors: Huang Li , Wang Wei , Wang Minggong
Published: September 2013

We propose the conception and evaluation indexes of emergency logistics network connecting reliability to construct evaluation index system of complex network reliability, and describe these indexes quantitatively to evaluate the network connecting reliability. Moreover, the network topological model and the simulation methods of reliability measurement when the network is under attack are present. Finally, we take three classical emergency logistics networks as examples, and through emulation analysis we obtain the connecting reliability changing situation of these three networks under random attack, the changing curve of the ratio of effective demand nodes and emergence supply mileage of emergency logistics network with same network density but different forms, and then evaluate the emergency logistics network connecting reliability. This can provide references for the designing of emergency logistics network with high reliability and analysis means for research in other fields.
Effects of Tidal Range Variability and Local Morphology on Hydrodynamic Behavior and Salinity Structure in the Caeté River Estuary, North Brazil
Authors: Cavalcante Geórgenes H. , Feary David A. , Kjerfve Björn
Published: September 2013

Tidal influence and local morphology on circulation and salt transport are investigated in the Caeté river estuary, a well-mixed estuary along the north coast of Brazil. Velocity, temperature, and salinity data were collected in three different locations along the estuary’s main channel, over three single, 13 h tidal cycles. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between tidal distortion and salinity by using classical methods of comparison of three cross-channel circulation characteristics, as well as computation of salt flux and vertical mixing. Findings indicate a flood-ebb asymmetry in currents, due to the distinct funneling morphology of the estuary, with shallow marginal areas being dominant towards the estuary head, while both stratification and shear dominate near the estuary mouth. The tidal currents enhanced vertical diffusion in the mid- and lower reaches, explaining the prevailing weakly stratified conditions, while the dominant well-mixed conditions in the upper estuary are a result of a combination of stronger flood currents and negligible vertical saline gradient. The predominant downstream salt transport supports the conclusion that there is little accumulation of salt in the Caeté river estuary. In addition, findings indicate that tidal correlation and Stokes drift are important components in the upper estuary, while tidal correlation played an important role in the middle estuary, with fluvial discharge most important in the lower estuary.
Initial Experience with Robotic Retropubic Urethropexy Compared to Open Retropubic Urethropexy
Authors: Patel Pooja R. , Borahay Mostafa A. , Puentes Audrey R. , Rodriguez Ana M. , Delaisse Jessica , Kilic Gokhan S.
Published: September 2013

Study Objective. To compare the clinical outcomes of robotic retropubic urethropexy versus open retropubic urethropexy.Design. Retrospective case-control study (II-2).Setting. University Hospital.Patients. All patients who underwent robotic retropubic urethropexy from 1/1/12 to 6/1/12 by a single gynecologic surgeon were included in the case series. The control cases consisted of the last five consecutive open retropubic urethropexies performed by the same surgeon.Main Results. A total of 10 patients (5 robotic cases and 5 open cases) were included in this study. Both groups were similar with respect to age, BMI, and obstetrical history. Mean hospital stay length and mean EBL were overall less for robotic cases than for open cases (1.2 days versus 2.6 days; 169 mL versus 300 mL). One of the 5 patients who underwent the open approach and 2 of the 5 patients who underwent the robotic approach sustained a minor intraoperative complication. All but one patient from each group experienced resolution of incontinence after the procedure. Two of the patients who underwent the open approach had postoperative complications.Conclusions. Robotic retropubic urethropexy may be a feasible alternative to open retropubic urethropexy. A larger study is necessary to support our observations.
Total Marrow Irradiation as Part of Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for Asian Patients with Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Lin Shih-Chiang , Hsieh Pei-Ying , Shueng Pei-Wei , Tien Hui-Ju , Wang Li-Ying , Hsieh Chen-Hsi
Published: September 2013

To compare the outcomes of melphalan 200 mg/m2(HDM200) and 8 Gy total marrow irradiation (TMI) delivered by helical tomotherapy plus melphalan 140 mg/m2(HDM140 + TMI 8 Gy) in newly diagnosed symptomatic multiple myeloma (MM) Asian patients. Between 2007 and 2010, nine consecutive myeloma patients who were scheduled to undergo autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) were studied. The patients received three cycles of vincristine-adriamycin-dexamethasone (VAD) regimen as induction chemotherapy, and if they had a partial response, peripheral blood stem cells were collected by dexamethasone-etoposide-cyclophosphamide-cisplatin (DECP). In arm A, six patients received the HDM200. In arm B, three patients received HDM140 + TMI 8 Gy. In arm B, the neutropenic duration was slightly longer than in arm A (P=0.048). However, hematologic recovery (except for neutrophils), transfusion requirement, median duration of hospitalization, and the dose of G-CSF were similar in both arms. The median duration of overall survival and event-free survival was similar in the two arms (P=0.387). As a conditioning regiment, HDM140 + TMI 8 Gy provide another chance for MM Asian patients who were not feasible for HDM200.
Postelimination Status of Childhood Leprosy: Report from a Tertiary-Care Hospital in South India
Authors: Chaitra P. , Bhat Ramesh Marne
Published: September 2013

Introduction. Leprosy, a statistically “eliminated” disease from the globe, continues to linger around in its endemic countries including India.Objective. This study describes the epidemiological and clinicopathological pattern of the disease seen in children over a period of 8 years following its elimination in India.Materials and Methods. Medical records of all leprosy cases up to 14 years of age registered between April 2005 and March 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. Data were retrieved using a predesigned proforma and entered into the database system for analysis.Results. Child proportion of newly registered leprosy cases did not show a significant decline in the years following its elimination. The disease seemed to manifest frequently in older children with an insignificant gender predilection. More than half of child cases had a history of household contact. Paucibacillary leprosy dominated in them with a solitary skin lesion as the most frequent presentation. Although nerve thickening was seen in nearly half of these children, neuritis and lepra reactions were less common. Deformity at the time of diagnosis was noted in 13.89% of cases. Although smear positivity was not a common feature in children affected with leprosy, a good clinicohistopathological correlation was observed in those who underwent biopsy.Conclusion. Our study and reports from different parts of the country depict the unturned curves in the epidemiology of childhood leprosy which mirrors active transmission in the community, lacunae in diagnosis, and the need to strengthen contact screening activities in the pediatric population to sustain elimination.