bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative analysis of the spatial distribution of fishing effort contrasting ecological isodars and discrete choice models
Authors: van der Lee A. , Gillis D.M. , Comeau P.
Published: September 2013

The spatial dynamics of catch and effort data are often overlooked in fisheries research despite its well-documented utility in understanding the distribution and abundance of fish. We apply a recently developed fisheries isodar model to an otter trawl groundfish fishery on the Scotian Shelf and compare its predictive performance with a more traditional discrete choice model random utility model. Isodars represent the expected distribution of foragers between two habitats when fitness is equal and can be a representation of the ideal free distribution. Here, fitness was defined with relative catch rates, cost differentials, and interference effects between habitats. Random utility models were constructed as mixed logit models to give the expected probability of fishing in a particular area based on a collection of predictors. The predictions of the isodar models consistently outperformed the mixed logit for both in-sample and out-of-sample forecasts and the isodar was determined to be the preferred model based on its increased accuracy and simplicity. The isodar model can provide a statistically powerful and easily implemented tool in effort studies, especially in situations of aggregated or limited data, which can inform conservation and management decisions.
Landscape structure and climatic variation determine Atlantic salmon genetic connectivity in the Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Bradbury Ian R. , Hamilton Lorraine C. , Robertson Martha J. , Bourgeois Chuck E. , Mansour Atef , Dempson J. Brian
Published: September 2013

The identification of landscape or climatic correlates of genetic connectivity can reveal the processes that regulate spatial diversity and inform the management and conservation of exploited or endangered species. Increasingly, the role of local adaptation in regulating spatial structure is gaining recognition, though disentangling its influence from that of dispersal and genetic drift remains challenging. We examined genetic connectivity using 15 microsatellite loci in 3546 Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) from 47 locations in Newfoundland and Labrador. Cluster analysis revealed regional associations, but examples of unexpectedly high divergence over small spatial scales (<50 km) or low divergence over large scales (>500 km) were common with little evidence of isolation by distance (R2= 0.04). We evaluated the hypothesis that spatial structure is less influenced by straying and more by adaptation and (or) drift using sample-associated data on 22 landscape and climate variables and both stepwise multiple regression and redundancy analysis. Landscape variables explained ∼40% of the variation in spatial structure with freshwater habitat area as the largest determinant. Linkages were also observed with water chemistry and winter severity, supporting hypotheses of adaptive divergence. Overall, the results suggest Atlantic salmon populations are structured by extensive genetic drift and low rates of effective straying and demonstrate how a landscape genetics approach can inform wildlife management and conservation.
THE SIGMA FUNCTION FOR WEIERSTRASS SEMIGROUPS 〈3, 7, 8〉 AND 〈6, 13, 14, 15, 16〉
Authors: KOMEDA JIRYO , MATSUTANI SHIGEKI , PREVIATO EMMA
Published: September 2013

Compact Riemann surfaces and their abelian functions are instrumental to solve integrable equations; more recently the representation theory of the Monster and related modular forms have pointed to the relevance of τ-functions, which are in turn connected with a specific type of abelian function, the (Kleinian) σ-function. Klein originally generalized Weierstrass' σ-function to hyperelliptic curves in a geometric way, then from a modular point of view to trigonal curves. Recently a modular generalization for all curves was given, as well as the geometric one for certain affine planar curves, known as (n, s) curves, and their generalizations known as "telescopic" curves. This paper proposes a construction of σ-functions based on the nature of the Weierstrass semigroup at one point of the Riemann surface as a generalization of the construction for plane affine models of the Riemann surface. Our examples are not telescopic. Because our definition is algebraic, in the sense of being related to the field of meromorphic functions on the curve, we are able to consider properties of the σ-functions such as Jacobi inversion formulae, and to observe relationships between their properties and those of a Norton basis for replicable functions, in turn relevant to the Monstrous Moonshine.
NEUTRINO IN PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Authors: FIORINI ETTORE
Published: September 2013

The recent impact of the discovery of neutrino oscillations and the related evidence of a finite neutrino mass has stimulated searches to actually measure or constraint the effective mass of this particle. Present and planned experiments based on cosmology and on single and double beta decay will be reviewed together with the suggested possibility of a Majorana nature of the neutrino.
ALL GORENSTEIN HEREDITARY RINGS ARE COHERENT
Authors: GAO ZENGHUI , WANG FANGGUI
Published: September 2013

A ring R is called Gorenstein hereditary (G-hereditary) if every submodule of a projective module is Gorenstein projective (i.e. Ggldim (R) ≤ 1). In this paper, we settle a question raised by Mahdou and Tamekkante in [On (strongly) Gorenstein (semi)hereditary rings, Arab. J. Sci. Eng.36 (2011) 436] about the coherence of G-hereditary rings. It is shown that a ring R is Gorenstein semihereditary if and only if every finitely generated submodule of a projective module is Gorenstein projective. As a consequence of this result, we have that every G-hereditary ring R is coherent.
Quantum Discord of Two Bosonic Modes in Two-Reservoir Model
Authors: Isar Aurelian
Published: September 2013

In the framework of the theory of open systems based on completely positive quantum dynamical semigroups, we give a description of the continuous variable quantum discord for a system consisting of two non-interacting bosonic modes embedded in two independent thermal environments. We describe the evolution of discord in terms of the covariance matrix for Gaussian input states. In the case of an entangled initial squeezed vacuum state, we analyze the time evolution of the Gaussian quantum discord, which is a measure of all quantum correlations in the bipartite state, including entanglement, and show that quantum discord decays asymptotically in time under the effect of the thermal reservoirs. For an initial separable pure state, the Gaussian quantum discord is zero and it keeps this value during the whole evolution of the system.
Modelling Access Propagation in Dynamic Systems
Authors: Leonard Thomas , Hall-May Martin , Surridge Mike
Published: September 2013

Access control is a critical feature of many systems, including networks of services, processes within a computer, and objects within a running process. The security consequences of a particular architecture or access control policy are often difficult to determine, especially where some components are not under our control, where components are created dynamically, or where access policies are updated dynamically.

The SERSCIS Access Modeller (SAM) takes a model of a system and explores how access can propagate through it. It can both prove defined safety properties and discover unwanted properties. By defining expected behaviours, recording the results as a baseline, and then introducing untrusted actors, SAM can discover a wide variety of design flaws.

SAM is designed to handle dynamic systems (i.e., at runtime, new objects are created and access policies modified) and systems where some objects are not trusted. It extends previous approaches such as Scollar and Authodox to provide a programmer-friendly syntax for specifying behaviour, and allows modelling of services with mutually suspicious clients.

Taking the Confused Deputy example from Authodox we show that SAM detects the attack automatically; using a web-based backup service, we show how to model RBAC systems, detecting a missing validation check; and using a proxy certificate system, we show how to extend it to model new access mechanisms. On discovering that a library fails to follow an RFC precisely, we re-evaluate our existing models under the new assumption and discover that the proxy certificate design is not safe with this library.
Hindbrain noradrenergic input to the hypothalamic PVN mediates the activation of oxytocinergic neurons induced by the satiety factor oleoylethanolamide
Authors: Romano Adele , Potes Catarina Soares , Tempesta Bianca , Cassano Tommaso , Cuomo Vincenzo , Lutz Thomas , Gaetani Silvana
Published: September 2013

Oleoylethanolamide (OEA) is a gut-derived endogenous lipid that stimulates vagal fibers to induce satiety. Our previous work has shown that peripherally administered OEA activates c-fos transcription in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NST) and in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), where it enhances oxytocin (OXY) expression. The anorexigenic action of OEA is prevented by the intracerebroventricular administration of a selective OXY receptor antagonist, suggesting a necessary role of OXYergic mediation of OEA's effect. The NST is the source of direct noradrenergic afferent input to hypothalamic OXY neurons, and therefore, we hypothesized that the activation of this pathway might mediate OEA effects on PVN neurons. To test this hypothesis, we subjected rats to intra-PVN administration of the toxin saporin (DSAP) conjugated to an antibody against dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DBH) to destroy hindbrain noradrenergic neurons. In these rats we evaluated the effects of OEA (10 mg/kg, ip) on feeding behavior, on c-Fos and OXY immunoreactivity in the PVN, and on OXY immunoreactivity in the posterior pituitary gland. We found that the DSAP lesion completely prevented OEA's effects on food intake, on Fos and OXY expression in the PVN, and on OXY immunoreactivity of the posterior pituitary gland; all effects were maintained in sham-operated rats. These results support the hypothesis that noradrenergic NST-PVN projections are involved in the activation of the hypothalamic OXY system, which mediates OEA's prosatiety action.
Characterization and Modification of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Prepared by Sol-Gel
Authors: Keshavarz Meysam , Ahmad Norhayati
Published: September 2013

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) were synthesized by sol-gel reaction at normal pressure by using TEOS as a silica source and CTAB as a directing agent in ammonia solution at 323 K subsequently calcined at 823 K. Then inorganic pores were modified with metal-supported MSN with attention to the acidity, surface area, pore size, and ability of ion exchange. Crystalline size was shown to decrease up to 20 molar ratios of Si/Al followed by increasing while further adding nanoparticles-aluminium. Moreover, the XRD patterns revealed the mesostructured material for all with 2D hexagonal structure. The obtained results from the XRD patterns were confirmed by using BET and EDX. The BET surface areas revealed the spherical shape for all samples with a decrease in the pore volume and surface area for various AlMSNs which emphasized that the loading of Al and was compatible with XRD results. MSN was prepared by sol-gel methods followed by loading of Al in order to prepare AlMSN which possess strong Lewis acidic sites. This modification occurred by using various molar ratios of 0, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Si/Al, respectively. The XRD patterns of various ratios of Si/Al were interpreted in terms of strain, nanocrystalline size, and distribution of the particle size by deriving Wiliamson Hall equation.
Photocatalysis: Oxidative Processes in Water Treatment
Authors: Prihod′ko Roman V. , Soboleva Nely M.
Published: September 2013

The efficiency of various homogeneous and heterogeneous systems photocatalytic processes destructive oxidation of organic compounds of different classes is considered. It is shown that photocatalytic methods can significantly increase the speed and depth (up to complete mineralization) of decomposition processes of toxicants. The use of photocatalysis (PC) in the creation of low‐power water treatment technologies is a promising direction in addressing environmental problems of the hydrosphere.
Delay-Driven Routing for Low-Duty-Cycle Sensor Networks
Authors: Fan Zuzhi
Published: September 2013

Duty-cycled operation has been introduced as an efficient way to preserve nodes energy and prolong network lifetime for wireless sensor networks. However, such networks are often logically disconnected since there is a limited number of active nodes within a period of time. Traditional routing algorithms, which have been designed for always-awake wireless networks, suffer excessive waiting time incurred by asynchronous schedule of nodes and cannot be applied to these time-dependent sensor networks. In this work, we study the optimization of delivery delay for low-duty-cycle sensor networks. Specially, we theoretically analyze the sleep latency in low-duty-cycle networks and present a new routing metric, which takes both lossy link and asynchronous schedule of nodes into consideration. Based on the metric, we propose delay-driven routing algorithms to find optimal forwarder in order to reduce delivery delay for source-to-sink communication. We compare our design against state-of-the-art routing algorithms derived in wireless networks through large-scale simulations and testbed experiments, which show that our algorithms can achieve a significant reduction in delivery delay.
A Coding and Postprocessing Framework of Multiview Distributed Video for Wireless Video Sensor Networks
Authors: Han Chong , Sun Lijuan , Guo Jian
Published: September 2013

In many surveillance application scenarios of wireless video sensor networks (WVSNs), a number of video sensors are deployed, and multidimension monitored the visual information in a region of interest, forming multiview videos. Since the power, computing capability, and bandwidth are very limited in WVSNs, the conventional multiview video coding method is no longer applicable. So multiview distributed video coding (MDVC) emerged and developed rapidly. In this paper, we propose a new multiview video coding and postprocessing framework for multiview videos. First, in coding scheme, motion intense regions (MIRs) and nonmotion intense regions (NMIRs) based on sum of absolute difference (SAD) criteria are distinguished. For the MIR, the side information (SI) is generated by fusion temporal SI and interview spatial SI at the pixel level. But for the NMIR, the temporal SI is directly use as the ultimate SI. Then, to further improve the quality of the decoded image, an image postprocessing scheme is designed by using deblocking and deringing artifact filters on decoded image. Finally, a set of experimental results show that the proposed fusion SI approach can bring improvements up to 0.2–0.5 dB when compares with only temporal SI used. The subsequent decoded videos postprocessing simulation proves that the proposed postprocessing scheme can provide an additional improvement of about 0.1 dB to the decoded video sequences.
Improvement of Processing Speed in Executive Function Immediately following an Increase in Cardiovascular Activity
Authors: Tam Nicoladie D.
Published: September 2013

This study aims to identify the acute effects of physical exercise on specific cognitive functions immediately following an increase in cardiovascular activity. Stair-climbing exercise is used to increase the cardiovascular output of human subjects. The color-naming Stroop Test was used to identify the cognitive improvements in executive function with respect to processing speed and error rate. The study compared the Stroop results before and immediately after exercise and before and after nonexercise, as a control. The results show that there is a significant increase in processing speed and a reduction in errors immediately after less than 30 min of aerobic exercise. The improvements are greater for the incongruent than for the congruent color tests. This suggests that physical exercise induces a better performance in a task that requires resolving conflict (or interference) than a task that does not. There is no significant improvement for the nonexercise control trials. This demonstrates that an increase in cardiovascular activity has significant acute effects on improving the executive function that requires conflict resolution (for the incongruent color tests) immediately following aerobic exercise more than similar executive functions that do not require conflict resolution or involve the attention-inhibition process (for the congruent color tests).
Application of Base Force Element Method to Mesomechanics Analysis for Recycled Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Peng Yijiang , Liu Yinghua , Pu Jiwei , Zhang Lijuan
Published: September 2013

The base force element method (BFEM) on potential energy principle is used to analyze recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) on mesolevel. The model of BFEM with triangular element is derived. The recycled aggregate concrete is taken as five-phase composites consisting of natural coarse aggregate, new mortar, new interfacial transition zone (ITZ), old mortar, and old ITZ on meso-level. The random aggregate model is used to simulate the mesostructure of recycled aggregate concrete. The mechanics properties of uniaxial compression and tension tests for RAC are simulated using the BFEM, respectively. The simulation results agree with the test results. This research method is a new way for investigating fracture mechanism and numerical simulation of mechanics properties for recycled aggregate concrete.
Dose-Dense Epirubicin and Cyclophosphamide Followed by Docetaxel as Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Node-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Mirzaei Hamid Reza , Sabet Rasekh Parisa , Nasrollahi Fatemeh , Sabet Rasekh Parto , Akbari Tirabad Zahra , Moein Hamid Reza , Ghaffari Pour Taban , Hajian Parastoo
Published: September 2013

Background. Adding taxanes to anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy has shown significant improvement particularly in node-positive patients, but optimal dose and schedule remain undetermined.Objectives. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of dose-dense epirubicin and cyclophosphamide followed by docetaxel in node-positive breast cancer.Methods. All Patients first received 4 cycles of epirubicin (100 mg/m2) and cyclophosphamide (600 mg/m2) at 2-week interval then followed by docetaxel (100 mg/m2) at 2-week interval for 4 cycles, with daily Pegfilgrastim (G-CSF) that was administered in all patients on days 3–10 after each cycle of epirubicin and cyclophosphamide infusion.Results. Fifty-eight patients with axillary lymph node-positive breast cancer were enrolled in the study, of whom 42 (72.4%) completed the regimen. There were two toxicity-related deaths, one patient due to grade 4 febrile neutropenia and the other due to congestive heart failure. Grade 3/4 neutropenia and febrile neutropenia were 13.8% and 5.1%. The most common grade 3/4 nonhematological complications were as follows: skin-nail disorders (48.3%), hand-foot syndrome (34.4%), paresthesia (38%), arthralgia (27.5%), and paresis (24.1%).Conclusions. Dose-dense epirubicin and cyclophosphamide followed by docetaxel with G-CSF support are not feasible, and it is not recommended for further investigation.
On a System of Difference Equations of an Economic Model
Authors: Elettreby M. F. , El-Metwally H.
Published: September 2013

We study some qualitative properties of the solutions of a system of difference equations, which describes an economic model. The study of the local stability of the equilibrium points is carried out. We give some important results of the invariant and the boundedness of the solutions to the considered system. The global convergence of the solutions is presented and investigated.
Scutellarin Attenuates Hypertension-Induced Expression of Brain Toll-Like Receptor 4/Nuclear Factor Kappa B
Authors: Chen Xingyong , Shi Xiaogeng , Zhang Xu , Lei Huixin , Long Simei , Su Huanxing , Pei Zhong , Huang Ruxun
Published: September 2013

Hypertension is associated with low-grade inflammation, and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has been shown to be linked to the development and maintenance of hypertension. This study aimed to investigate the effects of scutellarin (administered by oral gavage daily for 2 weeks) on brain TLR4/nuclear factor kappa B-(NF-κB-) mediated inflammation and blood pressure in renovascular hypertensive (using the 2-kidney, 2-clip method) rats. Immunofluorescence and western immunoblot analyses revealed that hypertension contributed to the activation of TLR4 and NF-κB, accompanied by significantly enhanced expression of proinflammatory mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), interleukin-1β(IL-1β), and interleukin-18 (IL-18). Furthermore, expression of the antiapoptotic protein, myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl1), was decreased, and the pro-apoptotic proteins, Bax and cleavedcaspase-3 p17 were increased in combined cerebral cortical/striatal soluble lysates. Scutellarin significantly lowered blood pressure and attenuated the number of activated microglia and macrophages in brains of hypertensive rats. Furthermore, scutellarin significantly reduced the expression of TLR4, NF-κB p65, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18, Bax and cleaved-caspase-3 p17, and increased the expression of Mcl1. Overall, these results revealed that scutellarin exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties and decreases blood pressure in hypertensive rats. Therefore, scutellarin may be a potential therapeutic agent in hypertension-associated diseases.
Enzyme-Mediated Ring-Opening Polymerization of Pentadecalactone to Obtain Biodegradable Polymer for Fabrication of Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Korzhikov V. A. , Gusevskaya K. V. , Litvinchuk E. N. , Vlakh E. G. , Tennikova T. B.
Published: September 2013

The optimization of enzyme-mediated polymerization of pentadecalactone (PDL) was performed to obtain macromolecular products suitable for generation of 3D cell supports (scaffolds) for bone tissue engineering. Such parameters as temperature, monomer/enzyme ratio, and monomer concentration were studied. The maximum molecular weight of synthesized polymers was about 90,000. Methods allowing the introduction of reactive double bonds into polypentadecalactone (polyPDL) structure were developed. The macroporous matrices were obtained by modification of thermoinduced phase separation method.
Taylor’s Expansion for Composite Functions
Authors: Ngoc Le Thi Phuong , Triet Nguyen Anh
Published: September 2013

We build a Taylor’s expansion for composite functions. Some applications are introduced, where the proposed technique allows the authors to obtain an asymptotic expansion of high order in many small parameters of solutions.
A Simple Approach to Achieve Modified Projective Synchronization between Two Different Chaotic Systems
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhen Bin , Xu Jian
Published: September 2013

A new approach, the projective system approach, is proposed to realize modified projective synchronization between two different chaotic systems. By simple analysis of trajectories in the phase space, a projective system of the original chaotic systems is obtained to replace the errors system to judge the occurrence of modified projective synchronization.
Theoretical analysis and numerical simulations show that, although the projective system may not be unique, modified projective synchronization can be achieved provided that the origin of any of projective systems is asymptotically stable. Furthermore, an example is presented to illustrate that even a necessary and sufficient condition for modified projective synchronization can be derived by using the projective system approach.
In VitroandIn VivoSurvival and Colonic Adhesion ofPediococcus acidilacticiMTCC5101 in Human Gut
Authors: Balgir Praveen P. , Kaur Baljinder , Kaur Tejinder , Daroch Natisha , Kaur Gurpreet
Published: September 2013

The present study aims to investigate the probiotic nature ofPediococcus acidilacticiMTCC5101 by anin vitroassay of bacterial adherence to intestinal epithelial cells of human gastrointestinal (GI) tract using Caco-2 cell line. Further to assess thein vivosurvival in the GI tract, oral feeding was carried out with the help of 10 healthy volunteers. The effect on wellness was assessed by studying blood biochemical parameters of the volunteers. The survival of the bacteria was assessed using PCR-based detection ofP. acidilacticiMTCC5101 in fecal samples. The probiotic nature ofP. acidilacticiMTCC 5101 was strengthened by its adherence to the intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cell line in thein vitroSEM observations. Oral feeding study for assessing the survival of bacteria in GI tract of volunteers showed the strain to be established in the GI tract which survived for about 2 weeks after feeding.
The Serological and Virological Investigation of Canine Adenovirus Infection on the Dogs
Authors: Bulut Oya , Yapici Orhan , Avci Oguzhan , Simsek Atilla , Atli Kamil , Dik Irmak , Yavru Sibel , Hasircioglu Sibel , Kale Mehmet , Mamak Nuri
Published: September 2013

Two types of Canine Adenovirus (CAVs), Canine Adenovirus type 1 (CAV‐1), the virus which causes infectious canine hepatitis, and Canine Adenovirus type 2 (CAV‐2), which causes canine infectious laryngotracheitis, have been found in dogs. In this study, blood samples taken from 111 dogs, which were admitted to the Internal Medicine Clinic of Selcuk University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, with clinical symptoms. Seventy‐seven dogs were sampled from Isparta and Burdur dog shelters by random sampling, regardless of the clinical findings. Dogs showed a systemic disease, characterized by fever, diarrhea, vomiting, oculonasal discharge, conjunctivitis, severe moist cough, signs of pulmonary disease and dehydration. Two dogs had corneal opacity and photophobia. In serological studies, 188 serum samples were investigated on the presence of CAV antibodies by ELISA. Total 103 (103/188–54.7%) blood samples were detected to be positive for CAV antibodies by ELISA. However, 85 (85/188–45.2%) blood samples were negative. Blood leukocyte samples from dogs were processed and inoculated onto confluent monolayers of MDCK cells using standard virological techniques. After third passage, cells were examined by direct immunoflourescence test for virus isolation. But positive result was not detected. In conclusion, this study clearly demonstrates the high prevalence of CAV infection in dogs.
The Design of UV Absorbing Systems for Horticultural Applications
Authors: Mahendra V. , Davis F. J. , Hadley P. , Gilbert A.
Published: September 2013

The synthesis and fluorescence behavior of a series of bis(trisilylalkyl)anthracene molecules is described. The photodegradation of these molecules under UV light has been monitored and compared to a commercially available fluorescent optical brightener. There is a relationship between the structure and the rate of photo decay. The materials with more bulky substituents exhibit the greater stability towards UV. For bis(triphenylsilyl)anthracene the photostability appears to be comparable with a commercially available optical brightener, but the molecule may be susceptible to thermal decay.
Exact Stiffness for Beams on Kerr-Type Foundation: The Virtual Force Approach
Authors: Limkatanyu Suchart , Prachasaree Woraphot , Damrongwiriyanupap Nattapong , Kwon Minho , Jung Wooyoung
Published: September 2013

This paper alternatively derives the exact element stiffness equation for a beam on Kerr-type foundation. The shear coupling between the individual Winkler-spring components and the peripheral discontinuity at the boundaries between the loaded and the unloaded soil surfaces are taken into account in this proposed model. The element flexibility matrix is derived based on the virtual force principle and forms the core of the exact element stiffness matrix. The sixth-order governing differential compatibility of the problem is revealed using the virtual force principle and solved analytically to obtain the exact force interpolation functions. The matrix virtual force equation is employed to obtain the exact element flexibility matrix based on the exact force interpolation functions. The so-called “natural” element stiffness matrix is obtained by inverting the exact element flexibility matrix. One numerical example is utilized to confirm the accuracy and the efficiency of the proposed beam element on Kerr-type foundation and to show a more realistic distribution of interactive foundation force.
Asymptotic Stability and Exponential Stability of Impulsive Delayed Hopfield Neural Networks
Authors: Chen Jing , Li Xiaodi , Wang Dequan
Published: September 2013

A criterion for the uniform asymptotic stability of the equilibrium point of impulsive delayed Hopfield neural networks is presented by using Lyapunov functions and linear matrix inequality approach. The criterion is a less restrictive version of a recent result. By means of constructing the extended impulsive Halanay inequality, we also analyze the exponential stability of impulsive delayed Hopfield neural networks. Some new sufficient conditions ensuring exponential stability of the equilibrium point of impulsive delayed Hopfield neural networks are obtained. An example showing the effectiveness of the present criterion is given.
Poststroke Hip Fracture: Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, Mineral-Bone Metabolism, Outcomes, and Gaps in Prevention
Authors: Fisher Alexander , Srikusalanukul Wichat , Davis Michael , Smith Paul
Published: September 2013

Objective. To assess the prevalence, clinical and laboratory characteristics, and short-term outcomes of poststroke hip fracture (HF).Methods. A cross-sectional study of 761 consecutive patients aged ≥60 years (82.3±8.8years; 75% females) with osteoporotic HF.Results. The prevalence of poststroke HF was 13.1% occurring on average 2.4 years after the stroke. The poststroke group compared to the rest of the cohort had a higher proportion of women, subjects with dementia, history of TIA, hypertension, coronary artery disease, secondary hyperparathyroidism, higher serum vitamin B12 levels (>350 pmol/L), walking aid users, and living in residential care facilities. The majority of poststroke HF patients had vitamin D insufficiency (68%) and excess bone resorption (90%). This group had a 3-fold higher incidence of postoperative myocardial injury and need for institutionalisation. In multivariate analysis, independent indicators of poststroke HF were female sex (OR 3.6), history of TIA (OR 5.2), dementia (OR 4.1), hypertension (OR 3.2), use of walking aid (OR 2.5), and higher vitamin B12 level (OR 2.3). Only 15% of poststroke patients received antiosteoporotic therapy prior to HF.Conclusions. Approximately one in seven HFs occurs in older stroke survivors and are associated with poorer outcomes. Early implementation of fracture prevention strategies is needed.
Essay on Kolmogorov Law of Minus 5 over 3 Viewed with Golden Ratio
Authors: Li Ming , Zhao Wei
Published: September 2013

The golden ratio is an astonishing number in high-energy physics, neutrino physics, and cosmology. The Kolmogorov −5/3 law plays a role in describing energy transfer of random data or random functions. The contributions of this essay are in twofold. One is to express the Kolmogorov −5/3 law by using the golden ratio. The other is to represent the fractal dimension of random data following the Kolmogorov −5/3 law with the golden ratio. It is our hope that this essay may be helpful to provide a new outlook of the Kolmogorov −5/3 law from the point of view of the golden ratio.
CpGislandEVO: A Database and Genome Browser for Comparative Evolutionary Genomics of CpG Islands
Authors: Barturen Guillermo , Geisen Stefanie , Dios Francisco , Hamberg E. J. Maarten , Hackenberg Michael , Oliver José L.
Published: September 2013

Hypomethylated, CpG-rich DNA segments (CpG islands, CGIs) are epigenome markers involved in key biological processes. Aberrant methylation is implicated in the appearance of several disorders as cancer, immunodeficiency, or centromere instability. Furthermore, methylation differences at promoter regions between human and chimpanzee strongly associate with genes involved in neurological/psychological disorders and cancers. Therefore, the evolutionary comparative analyses of CGIs can provide insights on the functional role of these epigenome markers in both health and disease. Given the lack of specific tools, we developedCpGislandEVO. Briefly, we first compile a database of statistically significant CGIs for the best assembled mammalian genome sequences available to date. Second, by means of a coupled browser front-end, we focus on the CGIs overlapping orthologous genes extracted fromOrthoDB, thus ensuring the comparison between CGIs located on truly homologous genome segments. This allows comparing the main compositional features between homologous CGIs. Finally, to facilitate nucleotide comparisons, we lifted genome coordinates between assemblies from different species, which enables the analysis of sequence divergence by direct count of nucleotide substitutions and indels occurring between homologous CGIs. The resultingCpGislandEVOdatabase, linking together CGIs and single-cytosine DNA methylation data from several mammalian species, is freely available at our website.
CuI‐Catalyzed: One‐Pot Synthesis of Diaryl Disulfides from Aryl Halides and Carbon Disulfide
Authors: Soleiman-Beigi Mohammad , Izadi Azadeh
Published: September 2013

A new application of carbon disulfide in the presence of KF/Al2O3 is reported for the synthesis of organic symmetrical diaryl disulfides. These products were synthesized by one‐pot reaction of aryl halides with the in situ generated trithiocarbonate ion in the presence of copper under air atmosphere.
Carbonation Coefficients from Concrete Made with High-Absorption Limestone Aggregate
Authors: Moreno Eric I.
Published: September 2013

Normal aggregates employed in concrete have absorption levels in the range of 0.2% to 4% for coarse aggregate and 0.2 to 2% for fine aggregate. However, some aggregates have absorption levels above these values. As the porosity of concrete is related to the porosity of both the cement paste and the aggregate and the carbonation rate is a function, among other things, of the porosity of the material, there is concern about the effect of this high porosity material in achieving good quality concrete from the durability point of view. Thus, the objective of this investigation was to study the carbonation rates of concrete specimens made with high-absorption limestone aggregate. Four different water/cement ratios were used, and cylindrical concrete specimens were exposed to accelerated carbonation. High porosity values were obtained for concrete specimens beyond the expected limits for durable concrete. However, carbonation coefficients related to normal quality concrete were obtained for the lowest water/cement ratio employed suggesting that durable concrete may be obtained with this material despite the high porosity.
Preamplification Procedure for the Analysis of Ancient DNA Samples
Authors: Del Gaudio Stefania , Cirillo Alessandra , Di Bernardo Giovanni , Galderisi Umberto , Thanassoulas Theodoros , Pitsios Theodoros , Cipollaro Marilena
Published: September 2013

In ancient DNA studies the low amount of endogenous DNA represents a limiting factor that often hampers the result achievement. In this study we extracted the DNA from nine human skeletal remains of different ages found in the Byzantine cemetery of Abdera Halkidiki and in the medieval cemetery of St. Spiridion in Rhodes (Greece). Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to detect in the extracts the presence of PCR inhibitors and to estimate the DNA content. As mitochondrial DNA was detected in all samples, amplification of nuclear targets, as amelogenin and the polymorphism M470V of the transmembrane conductance regulator gene, yielded positive results in one case only. In an effort to improve amplification success, we applied, for the first time in ancient DNA, a preamplification strategy based on TaqMan PreAmp Master Mix. A comparison between results obtained from nonpreamplified and preamplified samples is reported. Our data, even if preliminary, show that the TaqMan PreAmp procedure may improve the sensitivity of qPCR analysis.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterization of Bi2MoO6 Nanoplates and Their Photocatalytic Activities
Authors: Phuruangrat Anukorn , Jitrou Pimchanok , Dumrongrojthanath Phattharanit , Ekthammathat Nuengruethai , Kuntalue Budsabong , Thongtem Somchai , Thongtem Titipun
Published: September 2013

The pH effect of the precursor solutions on the phase, morphologies, and photocatalytic activity of Bi2MoO6 synthesized by a hydrothermal reaction at 180°C for 20 h was investigated. X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the presence of pure orthorhombic well‐crystallized γ‐Bi2MoO6 nanoplates, including the symmetric (A1g) and asymmetric (A2u) stretching vibrations of the MoO6 octahedrons involving the motion of apical oxygen atoms. The photocatalytic activity of Bi2MoO6 nanoplates at the pH 6 determined via the decomposition of rhodamine‐B (RhB) organic dye was the highest at 98.66% decolorization under Xe light irradiation.
In Vitro Activation and Inhibition of Recombinant EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Expressed in Escherichia coli
Authors: Elloumi-Mseddi Jihene , Jellali Karim , Aifa Sami
Published: September 2013

The present work concerns the heterologous expression of the intracellular domain harbouring the tyrosine kinase activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Protein expression was improved thanks to the deletion of a 13‐amino acid peptide of the juxtamembrane region (JM). The recombinant proteins were produced as a glutathione S‐transferase (GST) fusion in Escherichia coli, and the solubilisation was performed by sarkosyl addition during extraction. The produced proteins spontaneously dimerize allowing the activation of the tyrosine kinase domain in the presence of [γ‐32P]ATP. The activity assay has revealed the autophosphorylation of EGFR proteins which was decreased in the presence of genistein. Our system could facilitate the screening of EGFR inhibitors without the need of adding an exogenous substrate.
Abundance and Structure of African Baobab (Adansonia digitata) across Different Soil Types in Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe
Authors: Mashapa Clayton , Zisadza-Gandiwa Patience , Gandiwa Edson , Kativu Shakkie
Published: September 2013

This study investigated the abundance and structure of African baobab (Adansonia digitata) across soil group strata in Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe. The study was based on a stratified random sampling design composed of the following soil group substrates: (i) granophyres, (ii) malvernia, and (iii) rhyolite. Belt transects of 0.3×0.1 km were randomly laid across soil group. Baobab abundance and population structure were determined from the density and size class distribution, respectively. There were significant differences in plant height and plant density across Gonarezhou soil groups. Study sites on granophyres derived soil group indicated viable abundance and recruitment of baobab population. Whereas the study highlighted a concern over the unbalanced size structure distribution of baobab population on malvernia derived soil group, our results indicated that baobabs are in danger of extirpation on malvernia derived soil group. Baobab community in Gonarezhou tends to occur more densely along environmental gradient of soil group type as influenced by the underlying geological soil substrate of granophyres. Malvernia derived soil group is likely less ideal for baobab recruitment.
Virtual/Real Transfer in a Large-Scale Environment: Impact of Active Navigation as a Function of the Viewpoint Displacement Effect and Recall Tasks
Authors: Wallet Grégory , Sauzéon Hélène , Larrue Florian , N'Kaoua Bernard
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of navigation mode (passive versus active) on the virtual/real transfer of spatial learning, according to viewpoint displacement (ground: 1 m 75 versus aerial: 4 m) and as a function of the recall tasks used. We hypothesize that active navigation during learning can enhance performances when route strategy is favored by egocentric match between learning (ground-level viewpoint) and recall (egocentric frame-based tasks). Sixty-four subjects (32 men and 32 women) participated in the experiment. Spatial learning consisted of route learning in a virtual district (four conditions: passive/ground, passive/aerial, active/ground, or active/aerial), evaluated by three tasks:wayfinding,sketch-mapping,andpicture-sorting. In thewayfinding task, subjects who were assigned the ground-level viewpoint in the virtual environment (VE) performed better than those with the aerial-level viewpoint, especially in combination with active navigation. In thesketch-mapping task, aerial-level learning in the VE resulted in better performance than the ground-level condition, while active navigation was only beneficial in the ground-level condition. The best performance in thepicture-sorting taskwas obtained with the ground-level viewpoint, especially with active navigation. This study confirmed the expected results that the benefit of active navigation was linked with egocentric frame-based situations.
Actin, RhoA, and Rab11 Participation during Encystment inEntamoeba invadens
Authors: Herrera-Martínez M. , Hernández-Ramírez V. I. , Lagunes-Guillén A. E. , Chávez-Munguía B. , Talamás-Rohana P.
Published: September 2013

In the genusEntamoeba, actin reorganization is necessary for cyst differentiation; however, its role is still unknown. The aim of this work was to investigate the role of actin and encystation-related proteins duringEntamoeba invadensencystation. Studied proteins were actin, RhoA, a small GTPase involved through its effectors in the rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton; Rab11, a protein involved in the transport of encystation vesicles; and enolase, as an encystment vesicles marker. Results showed a high level of polymerized actin accompanied by increased levels of RhoA-GTP during cell rounding and loss of vacuoles. Cytochalasin D, an actin polymerization inhibitor, and Y27632, an inhibitor of RhoA activity, reduced encystment in 80%. These inhibitors also blocked cell rounding, disposal of vacuoles, and the proper formation of the cysts wall. At later times, F-actin and Rab11 colocalized with enolase, suggesting that Rab11 could participate in the transport of the cyst wall components through the F-actin cytoskeleton. These results suggest that actin cytoskeleton rearrangement is playing a decisive role in determining cell morphology changes and helping with the transport of cell wall components to the cell surface during encystment ofE. invadens.
Analysis of Sandwich Plates by Generalized Differential Quadrature Method
Authors: Ferreira A. J. M. , Viola E. , Tornabene F. , Fantuzzi N. , Zenkour A. M.
Published: September 2013

We combine a layer-wise formulation and a generalized differential quadrature technique for predicting the static deformations and free vibration behaviour of sandwich plates. Through numerical experiments, the capability and efficiency of this strong-form technique for static and vibration problems are demonstrated, and the numerical accuracy and convergence are thoughtfully examined.
Oxidative Stress andβ-Thalassemic Erythroid Cells behind the Molecular Defect
Authors: De Franceschi Lucia , Bertoldi Mariarita , Matte Alessandro , Santos Franco Sara , Pantaleo Antonella , Ferru Emanuela , Turrini Franco
Published: September 2013

β-thalassemia is a worldwide distributed monogenic red cell disorder, characterized by the absence or reducedβ-globin chain synthesis. Despite the extensive knowledge of the molecular defects causingβ-thalassemia, less is known about the mechanisms responsible for the associated ineffective erythropoiesis and reduced red cell survival, which sustain anemia ofβ-thalassemia. The unbalance of alpha-gamma chain and the presence of pathological free iron promote a severe red cell membrane oxidative stress, which results in abnormalβ-thalassemic red cell features. These cells are precociously removed by the macrophage system through two mechanisms: the removal of phosphatidylserine positive cells and through the natural occurring antibody produced against the abnormally clustered membrane protein band 3. In the present review we will discuss the changes inβ-thalassemic red cell homeostasis related to the oxidative stress and its connection with production of microparticles and with malaria infection. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) are also involved in ineffective erythropoiesis ofβ-thalassemia through still partially known pathways. Novel cytoprotective systems such as ASHP, eIF2α, and peroxiredoxin-2 have been suggested to be important against ROS inβ-thalassemic erythropoiesis. Finally, we will discuss the results of the majorin vitroandin vivostudies with antioxidants inβ-thalassemia.
Cetuximab Response of Lung Cancer–Derived EGF Receptor Mutants Is Associated with Asymmetric Dimerization
Authors: Cho Jeonghee , Chen Liang , Sangji Naveen , Okabe Takafumi , Yonesaka Kimio , Francis Joshua M. , Flavin Richard J. , Johnson William , Kwon Jihyun , Yu Soyoung , Greulich Heidi , Johnson Bruce E. , Eck Michael J. , Jänne Pasi A. , Wong Kwok-Kin , Meyerson Matthew
Published: September 2013

Kinase domain mutations of the EGF receptor (EGFR) are common oncogenic events in lung adenocarcinoma. Here, we explore the dependency upon asymmetric dimerization of the kinase domain for activation of lung cancer–derived EGFR mutants. We show that whereas wild-type EGFR and the L858R mutant require dimerization for activation and oncogenic transformation, the exon 19 deletion, exon 20 insertion, and L858R/T790M EGFR mutants do not require dimerization. In addition, treatment with the monoclonal antibody, cetuximab, shrinks mouse lung tumors induced by the dimerization-dependent L858R mutant, but exerts only a modest effect on tumors driven by dimerization-independent EGFR mutants. These data imply that different EGFR mutants show differential requirements for dimerization and that disruption of dimerization may be among the antitumor mechanisms of cetuximab. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6770–9. ©2013 AACR.
Synthesis of Methoxy-X04 Derivatives and Their Evaluation in Alzheimer's Disease Pathology
Authors: Boländer Alexander , Kieser Daniel , Scholz Christoph , Heyny-von Haußen Roland , Mall Gerhard , Goetschy Valérie , Czech Christian , Schmidt Boris
Published: September 2013

Background: Alzheimer's disease is characterized by two notorious protein aggregates in the brain: extracellular senile plaques mainly consisting of amyloid-β peptides and tau-protein-derived intracellular paired helical filaments. The diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is impaired by insufficient sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic methods to visualize these pathological hallmarks over all disease stages. Objective: The established fluorescence marker methoxy-X04 stains plaques, tau tangles and amyloid-derived angiopathies with good specificity, yet it is limited by slow elimination in vivo. Since the need for new markers is high, we prepared methoxy-X04 derivatives and evaluated their potential as imaging agents in Alzheimer's disease pathology. Methods and Results: In this study, we describe an improved synthesis for methoxy-X04 and its derivatives and their affinity determination for the respective protein targets by immunohistology and a displacement assay. Conclusion: This resulted in the identification of new derivatives of methoxy-X04 with improved binding affinity.