bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective Synchronization of a Class of Chua’s Chaotic Systems Using an Exponential Feedback Coupling
Authors: Louodop Patrick , Fotsin Hilaire , Ngouonkadi Elie B. Megam , Bowong Samuel , Cerdeira Hilda A.
Published: March 2013

A robust exponential function based controller is designed to synchronize effectively a given class of Chua's chaotic systems. The stability of the drive-response systems framework is proved through the Lyapunov stability theory. Computer simulations are given to illustrate and verify the method.
Energy-Efficient Self-Organized Clustering with Splitting and Merging for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Lee Kyuhong , Lee Heesang
Published: March 2013

Energy efficiency is one of the most important issues for WSNs, because the battery of each wireless sensor node cannot be recharged or replaced. Therefore, all batteries have to be well managed, in order to provide a long network lifetime, as well as to reduce energy consumption for WSNs, particularly in clustering and routing. In this paper, we propose an energy-efficient self-organized clustering model with splitting and merging (EECSM), which performs clustering and then splits and merges clusters for energy-efficient cluster-based routing. EECSM uses information of the energy state of sensor nodes, in order to reduce energy consumption and maintain load balance. We show the validity of splitting and merging of clusters and then compare the performance of the proposed EECSM with that of a well-known cluster-based self-organization routing protocol for WSNs. The results of our experiment show good performance of EECSM, in terms of network lifetime, residual energies, scalability, and robustness.
Molecular Modeling and Spectroscopic Studies on the Interaction of Transresveratrol with Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Shang Yonghui , Ren Xudong , Li Hua
Published: March 2013

The interaction of transresveratrol (TRES) with bovine serum albumin (BSA) has been investigated by ultraviolet‐visible, fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic methods and molecular modeling techniques. The fluorescence results show that the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA is quenched by TRES through a static quenching procedure. The binding constants of TRES with BSA at 292, 297 and 302 K are calculated as 10.22 × 104, 8.71 × 104, and 7.59 × 104 L mol−1, respectively, and corresponding numbers of binding sites are approximately equal to unity. The thermodynamic parameters ΔH and ΔS are estimated to be −21.82 kJ mol−1 and +21.15 J mol−1 K−1, which indicates that the interaction of TRES with BSA is driven mainly by hydrophobic forces and there are also hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions. The competitive experiments suggest that the binding site of TRES to BSA is probably located on site II. The results of infrared spectra show that the binding of TRES with BSA leads to conformational changes of BSA, and the binding stabilizes the α‐helix and β‐sheet at the cost of a corresponding loss in the β‐turn structure of BSA. The results of molecular modeling calculation clarify the binding mode and the binding sites which are in good accordance with the experiment results.
A Hybrid Cluster-Based Target Tracking Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Wang Zhibo , Lou Wei , Wang Zhi , Ma Junchao , Chen Honglong
Published: March 2013

Target tracking is a typical and important application of wireless sensor networks (WSNs). In consideration of the network scalability and energy efficiency for target tracking in large-scale WSNs, it has been employed as an effective solution by organizing the WSNs into clusters. However, tracking a moving target in cluster-based WSNs suffers a boundary problem when the target moves across or along the boundaries of clusters, as the static cluster membership prevents sensors in different clusters from sharing information. In this paper, we propose a novel mobility management protocol, called hybrid cluster-based target tracking (HCTT), which integrates on-demand dynamic clustering into a cluster-based WSN for target tracking. By constructing on-demand dynamic clusters at boundary regions, nodes from different static clusters that detect the target can temporarily share information, and the tracking task can be handed over smoothly from one static cluster to another. As the target moves, static clusters and on-demand dynamic clusters alternately manage the target tracking task. Simulation results show that the proposed protocol performs better in tracking the moving target when compared with other typical target tracking protocols.
An Infectious Disease and Mortality Survey in a Population of Free-Ranging African Wild Dogs and Sympatric Domestic Dogs
Authors: Flacke G. , Becker P. , Cooper D. , Szykman Gunther M. , Robertson I. , Holyoake C. , Donaldson R. , Warren K.
Published: March 2013

Disease can cause declines in wildlife populations and significantly threaten their survival. Recent expansion of human and domestic animal populations has made wildlife more susceptible to transmission of pathogens from domestic animal hosts. We conducted a pathogen surveillance and mortality survey for the population of African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, from January 2006–February 2007. Samples were obtained from 24 wild dogs for canine distemper virus (CDV) and canine parvovirus (CPV) serological testing. Data were collected on the presence of CDV, CPV, and rabies virus in the KZN domestic dog (Canis familiaris) population from 2004–06. The presence of these pathogens was confirmed in domestic dogs throughout KZN. Wild dogs exhibited 0% and 4.2% prevalence for CDV and CPV antibodies, respectively. In 2006 the largest wild dog pack in KZN was reduced from 26 individuals to a single animal; disease due to rabies virus was considered the most probable cause. This study provides evidence that CDV, CPV and rabies are potential threats to African wild dog conservation in KZN. The most economical and practical way to protect wild dogs from canine pathogens may be via vaccination of sympatric domestic dogs; however, such programmes are currently limited.
UV‐B Radiation Impacts Shoot Tissue Pigment Composition in Allium fistulosum L. Cultigens
Authors: Abney Kristin R. , Kopsell Dean A. , Sams Carl E. , Zivanovic Svetlana , Kopsell David E.
Published: March 2013

Plants from the Allium genus are valued worldwide for culinary flavor and medicinal attributes. In this study, 16 cultigens of bunching onion (Allium fistulosum L.) were grown in a glasshouse under filtered UV radiation (control) or supplemental UV‐B radiation [7.0 μmol·m−2·s−2 (2.68 W·m−2)] to determine impacts on growth, physiological parameters, and nutritional quality. Supplemental UV‐B radiation influenced shoot tissue carotenoid concentrations in some, but not all, of the bunching onions. Xanthophyll carotenoid pigments lutein and β‐carotene and chlorophylls a and b in shoot tissues differed between UV‐B radiation treatments and among cultigens. Cultigen “Pesoenyj” responded to supplemental UV‐B radiation with increases in the ratio of zeaxanthin + antheraxanthin to zeaxanthin + antheraxanthin + violaxanthin, which may indicate a flux in the xanthophyll carotenoids towards deepoxydation, commonly found under high irradiance stress. Increases in carotenoid concentrations would be expected to increase crop nutritional values.
Smoking and Other Drug Characteristics of Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Prisoners in Australia
Authors: Richmond Robyn L. , Indig Devon , Butler Tony G. , Wilhelm Kay A. , Archer Vicki A. , Wodak Alex D.
Published: March 2013

Introduction and Aim. Although tobacco and alcohol use have declined substantially in the Australian community, substance use among prisoners remains high. The aim was to compare the smoking, drug, and alcohol characteristics, sociodemographic profile, and general health of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal male prisoners in a smoking cessation intervention.Design and Methods. This study was a descriptive cross-sectional analysis of data from 425 male prisoners who joined a quit smoking trial conducted at 18 correctional centres in NSW and Queensland using data collected by standardised self-report instruments.Results. Average age was 33 years with 15% from Aboriginal descent. Compared to non-Aboriginal prisoners, Aboriginal prisoners were significantly more likely to have left school with no qualifications, to have been institutionalised as a child, to be previously incarcerated, and commenced smoking at a younger age. The tobacco use profile of both groups was similar; most of them had a medium to high level of nicotine dependence, smoked roll your own tobacco, and were “serious” about quitting.Discussion and Conclusion. Despite differences in terms of sociodemographic characteristics and offending history, the smoking characteristics of Aboriginal and non- Aboriginal prisoners were similar. Incarceration offers an opportunity to encourage smoking cessation and reduction of drug use.
Multiple Solutions for Generalized Asymptotical Linear Hamiltonian Systems Satisfying Bolza Boundary Conditions
Authors: Shan Yuan , Liu Baoqing
Published: March 2013

This paper is devoted to multiple solutions of generalized asymptotical linear Hamiltonian systems satisfying Bolza boundary conditions. We classify the linear Hamiltonian systems by the index theory and obtain the existence and multiplicity of solutions for the Hamiltonian systems, based on an application of the classical symmetric mountain pass lemma.
A Novel Approach toH∞Control Design for Linear Neutral Time-Delay Systems
Authors: Xia Hongwei , Zhao Pingping , Li Li , Wu Aiguo , Ma Guangcheng
Published: March 2013

This paper is concerned with the problem ofH∞control of linear neutral systems with time-varying delay. Firstly, by applying a novel Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional which is constructed with the idea of delay partitioning approach, appropriate free-weighting matrices, an improved delay-dependent bounded real lemma (BRL) for neutral systems is established. By using the obtained BRL, a delay-dependent sufficient condition for the existence of a state-feedback controller, which ensures asymptotic stability and a prescribedH∞performance level of the corresponding closed-loop system, is formulated in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Some numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed design method.
A Methodology for Validating Safety Heuristics Using Clinical Simulations: Identifying and Preventing Possible Technology-Induced Errors Related to Using Health Information Systems
Authors: Borycki Elizabeth , Kushniruk Andre , Carvalho Christopher
Published: March 2013

Internationally, health information systems (HIS) safety has emerged as a significant concern for governments. Recently, research has emerged that has documented the ability of HIS to be implicated in the harm and death of patients. Researchers have attempted to develop methods that can be used to prevent or reduce technology-induced errors. Some researchers are developing methods that can be employed prior to systems release. These methods include the development of safety heuristics and clinical simulations. In this paper, we outline our methodology for developing safety heuristics specific to identifying the features or functions of a HIS user interface design that may lead to technology-induced errors. We follow this with a description of a methodological approach to validate these heuristics using clinical simulations.
Atypical Osteomyelitis Caused byMycobacterium chelonae—A Multimodal Imaging Approach
Authors: Talanow Roland , Vieweg Hendryk , Andresen Reimer
Published: March 2013

We present an unusual case of a biopsy-provenMycobacterium chelonaeinfection (MCI) of skin and soft tissue, which led to osteomyelitis in a 55-year-old Caucasian male. We provide clinical data and discussion about MCI and its diagnostic workup and demonstrate comprehensive imaging findings, including clinical pictures, radiographs, three-phase bone scintigraphy, and combined SPECT/CT findings of this entity, which have not yet been presented in the medical literature.
Strong ERG Positivity in Papillary Intralymphatic Angioendothelioma of the Testis of a 24-Year-Old Male: A Case Report
Authors: Schultheis Anne M. , Sandmann Mareike , Steurer Stefan
Published: March 2013

Papillary intralymphatic angioendothelioma is a rare, low-grade neoplasm of lymphatic channels that usually presents intradermally or subcutaneously. We report the case of a 24-year-old male presenting with an isolated intratesticular palpable mass and symptoms of testicular pain. Preoperative ultrasound examination showed an irregular, heterogeneous mass. Subsequent surgery and pathologic assessment revealed a papillary intralymphatic angioendothelioma (PILA), formerly known as Dabska tumor within the lymphatic spaces.
The Primo Vascular Structures Alongside Nervous System: Its Discovery and Functional Limitation
Authors: Park Eun-sung , Kim Hee Young , Youn Dong-ho
Published: March 2013

The primo vascular structures comprising primo nodes and vessels (originally called Bonghan corpuscles and ducts, resp.) have recently been suggested to be the anatomical correlate of acupuncture, a therapeutic technique used in oriental medicine. Although the primo vascular structures have been observed in many parts of animals, including the nervous system, using anatomical methodologies, its physiological functions are still unclear. This paper summarizes the reports on the primo vascular structures, particularly in the nervous system and its surroundings, as well as the electrophysiological properties of cells in the primo nodes. In addition, recent reports examining the potential roles of the primo vascular structures in acupuncture are discussed. This review raises some fundamental questions and, at the same time, highlights the potential physiological roles of the primo vascular structures in acupuncture.
Etanercept Suppresses Arteritis in a Murine Model of Kawasaki Disease: A Comparative Study Involving Different Biological Agents
Authors: Ohashi Ryuji , Fukazawa Ryuji , Watanabe Makoto , Tajima Hanako , Nagi-Miura Noriko , Ohno Naohito , Tsuchiya Shinichi , Fukuda Yuh , Ogawa Shunichi , Itoh Yasuhiko
Published: March 2013

Coronary arteritis, a complication of Kawasaki disease (KD), can be refractory to immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment. To determine the most effective alternative therapy, we compared the efficacy of different agents in a mouse model of KD. Vasculitis was induced by injection ofCandida albicanswater-soluble fractions (CAWS) into a DBA/2 mouse, followed by administration of IVIG, etanercept, methylprednisolone (MP), and cyclosporine-A (CsA). At 2 and 4 weeks, the mice were sacrificed, and plasma cytokines and chemokines were measured. CAWS injection induced active inflammation in the aortic root and coronary arteries. At 2 weeks, the vasculitis was reduced only by etanercept, and this effect persisted for the subsequent 2 weeks. At 4 weeks, IVIG and CsA also attenuated the inflammation, but the effect of etanercept was more significant. MP exerted no apparent effect at 2 or 4 weeks. The suppressive effect exerted by etanercept on cytokines, such as interleukin- (IL-)6, IL-12, IL-13, and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), was more evident than that of others. The extent of arteritis correlated with the plasma TNF-αlevels, suggesting a pivotal role of TNF-αin KD. In conclusion, etanercept was most effective in suppressing CAWS-induced vasculitis and can be a new therapeutic intervention for KD.
A Reduced Local Discontinuous Galerkin Method for Nearly Incompressible Linear Elasticity
Authors: Huang Xuehai
Published: March 2013

A reduced local discontinuous Galerkin (RLDG) method for nearly incompressible linear elasticity is proposed in this paper, which is locking-free. RLDG method can be formally regarded as a special case of LDG method withC11=0. However, RLDG method is actually not covered by LDG method, whereC11must be chosen to be positive to ensure the stability of LDG method. RLDG method can also be considered as the localization of some symmetric nonconforming mixed finite element method. The implementation of RLDG method is discussed. By introducing a lifting operator as LDG method, RLDG method can be rewritten as primal formulation with unknown displacement only. Next, we obtain that the convergence rates of the approximation to stress tensor in energy norm and displacement inL2-norm areO(hk)andO(hk+1), respectively, which are both uniform with respect toλ. Moreover, we obtain aH(div)-conforming displacement by projecting the displacement and corresponding numerical trace of RLDG method into the Raviart-Thomas element space. And then we analyze the error estimates of this postprocessed displacement inH(div)-seminorm andL2-norm, which are also uniform with respect toλ. Finally, some numerical results are shown to demonstrate the theoretical results.
Cytotoxic Activity of Kenaf Seed Oils from Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Fluid Extraction towards Human Colorectal Cancer (HT29) Cell Lines
Authors: Abd Ghafar Siti Aisyah , Ismail Maznah , Saiful Yazan Latifah , Fakurazi Sharida , Ismail Norsharina , Chan Kim Wei , Md Tahir Paridah
Published: March 2013

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) from the family Malvaceae, is a valuable fiber plant native to India and Africa and is currently planted as the fourth commercial crop in Malaysia. Kenaf seed oil contains alpha-linolenic acid, phytosterol such asβ-sitosterol, vitamin E, and other antioxidants with chemopreventive properties. Kenaf seeds oil (KSO) was from supercritical carbon dioxide extraction fluid (SFE) at 9 different permutations of parameters based on range of pressures from 200 to 600 bars and temperature from 40 to 80°C. They were 200/40, 200/60, 200/80, 400/40, 400/60, 400/80, 600/40, 600/60, and 600/80. Extraction from 9 parameters of KSO-SFE was screened for cytotoxicity towards human colorectal cancer cell lines (HT29) and mouse embryonic fibroblast (NIH/3T3) cell lines using MTS assay. KSO-SFE at 600/40 showed the strongest cytotoxicity towards HT29 with IC50of 200 µg/mL. The IC50for NIH/3T3 was not detected even at highest concentration employed. Cell cycle analysis showed a significant increase in the accumulation of KSO-SFE-treated cells at sub-G1 phase, indicating the induction of apoptosis by KSO-SFE. Further apoptosis induction was confirmed by Annexin V/PI and AO/PI staining.
Knowledge Flow Rules of Modern Design under Distributed Resource Environment
Authors: Li Junning , Chen Wei , Xie Youbai
Published: March 2013

The process of modern design under the distributed resource environment is interpreted as the process of knowledge flow and integration. As the acquisition of new knowledge strongly depends on resources, knowledge flow can be influenced by technical, economic, and social relation factors, and so forth. In order to achieve greater efficiency of knowledge flow and make the product more competitive, the root causes of the above factors should be acquired first. In this paper, the authors attempt to reveal the nature of design knowledge flow from the perspectives of fluid dynamics and energy. The knowledge field effect and knowledge agglomeration effect are analyzed, respectively, in which the knowledge field effect model considering single task node and the single knowledge energy model in the knowledge flow are established, then the general expression of knowledge energy conservation with consideration of the kinetic energy and potential energy of knowledge is built. Then, the knowledge flow rules and their influential factors including complete transfer and incomplete transfer of design knowledge are studied. Finally, the coupling knowledge flows in the knowledge service platform for modern design are analyzed to certify the feasibility of the research work.
Fourth-Order Deferred Correction Scheme for Solving Heat Conduction Problem
Authors: Yambangwai D. , Moshkin N. P.
Published: March 2013

A deferred correction method is utilized to increase the order of spatial accuracy of the Crank-Nicolson scheme for the numerical solution of the one-dimensional heat equation. The fourth-order methods proposed are the easier development and can be solved by using Thomas algorithms. The stability analysis and numerical experiments have been limited to one-dimensional heat-conducting problems with Dirichlet boundary conditions and initial data.
Sex Disparities in Diabetes Process of Care Measures and Self-Care in High-Risk Patients
Authors: Yu Margaret K. , Lyles Courtney Rees , Bent-Shaw Luis A. , Young Bessie A.
Published: March 2013

Patients with chronic diabetic complications experience high morbidity and mortality. Sex disparities in modifiable factors such as processes of care or self-care activities have not been explored in detail, particularly in these high-risk patients. Sex differences in processes of care and self-care activities were assessed in a cross-sectional analysis of the Pathways Study, an observational cohort of primary care diabetic patients from a managed care organization (N=4,839). Compared to men, women had decreased odds of dyslipidemia screening (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.73, 95% CI 0.62–0.85), reaching low-density lipoprotein goal (AOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.58–0.86), and statin use (AOR 0.69, 95% CI 0.58–0.81); women had 19% greater odds of reaching hemoglobin A1c <7% (95% CI 1.02–1.41). There were no sex differences in hemoglobin A1c testing, microalbuminuria screening, or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor use. Women were less likely to report regular exercise but had better adherence to healthy diet, glucose monitoring, and self-foot examination compared to men. Patterns of sex differences were consistent in subjects with diabetic complications. Significant sex disparities exist in diabetes process of care measures and self-care, even amongst patients known to have chronic diabetic complications.
Cervical Pessaries for the Prevention of Preterm Birth: A Systematic Review
Authors: Liem Sophie M. S. , van Pampus Mariëlle G. , Mol Ben Willem J. , Bekedam Dick J.
Published: March 2013

Introduction. Reduction of preterm birth is a major goal in obstetric care. We performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials and cohort studies on the effectiveness of the cervical pessary to prevent preterm birth.Methods. We searched the electronic databases of MEDLINE and Embase from inception until April 2012 to identify studies investigating treatment with a cervical pessary to prevent preterm birth. We constructed two-by-two tables for delivery before 28, 34, and 37 weeks of gestation and calculated relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals.Results. The search revealed 103 potentially eligible abstracts of which six cohort studies and four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigated the effectiveness of the pessary. One RCT (n=380) demonstrated a lower delivery rate prior to 34 weeks (RR 0.24; 95% CI 0.13–0.43) in the pessary group, while another RCT (n=108) showed no positive effect of pessary for delivery before 34 weeks (RR 1.73; 95% CI 0.43–6.88). Two older quasi randomized studies and cohort studies indicated potential effect of the pessary.Conclusions. Available randomized and nonrandomized studies indicate potential effectiveness of a cervical pessary in the prevention of preterm birth. More randomized clinical trials are needed before this device can be used in clinical practice.
Decrease of Obesity by Allantoin via Imidazoline I1-Receptor Activation in High Fat Diet-Fed Mice
Authors: Chung Hsien-Hui , Lee Kung Shing , Cheng Juei-Tang
Published: March 2013

The activation of the imidazoline I1-receptor (I1R) is known to regulate appetite. Allantoin, an active ingredient in the yam, has been reported to improve lipid metabolism in high fat diet- (HFD-)fed mice. However, the effect of allantoin on obesity remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects of allantoin on HFD-induced obesity. The chronic administration of allantoin to HFD-fed mice for 8 weeks significantly decreased their body weight, and this effect was reversed by efaroxan at a dose sufficient to block I1R. The epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) cell size and weight in HFD-fed mice were also decreased by allantoin via the activation of I1R. In addition, allantoin significantly decreased the energy intake of HFD-fed mice, and this reduction was associated with a decrease in the NPY levels in the brain. However, no inhibitory effect of allantoin on energy intake was observed in db/db mice. Moreover, allantoin lowered HFD-induced hyperleptinemia, and this activity was abolished by I1R blockade with efaroxan. Taken together, these data suggest that allantoin can ameliorate energy intake and eWAT accumulation by activating I1R to improve HFD-induced obesity.
The Tergal Gland Secretion of the Two Rare Myrmecophilous SpeciesZyras collarisandZ. haworthi(Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) and the Effect onLasius fuliginosus
Authors: Stoeffler Michael , Boettinger Lea , Tolasch Till , Steidle Johannes L. M.
Published: March 2013

The beetle speciesZyras collarisandZ. haworthibelong to the rove beetle tribe Myrmedoniini (Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae), which comprises many myrmecophilous species. Due to their rareness, it is unknown how the two species interact with their host ants. GC-MS analyses revealed that both species releaseα-pinene,β-pinene, myrcene and limonene from their defensive tergal glands. This composition of tergal gland secretion is unique within the subfamily Aleocharinae. In biotests,Lasius fuliginosusants showed increased antennation towards filter paper balls treated with mixtures of these substances in natural concentrations. Because these monoterpenes are also present in some aphid species which are attended by ants, we hypothesize thatZyrasbeetles mimic the presence of aphids and thereby achieve acceptance by their host ants.
Sequential Derivatives of Nonlinearq-Difference Equations with Three-Pointq-Integral Boundary Conditions
Authors: Pongarm Nittaya , Asawasamrit Suphawat , Tariboon Jessada
Published: March 2013

This paper studies sufficient conditions for the existence of solutions to the problem of sequential derivatives of nonlinearq-difference equations with three-pointq-integral boundary conditions. Our results are concerned with several quantum numbers of derivatives and integrals. By using Banach's contraction mapping, Krasnoselskii's fixed-point theorem, and Leray-Schauder degree theory, some new existence results are obtained. Two examples illustrate our results.
Sparse Constrained Reconstruction for Accelerating Parallel Imaging Based on Variable Splitting Method
Authors: Xu Wenlong , Liu Xiaofang , Li Xia
Published: March 2013

Parallel imaging is a rapid magnetic resonance imaging technique. For the ill-conditioned problem, noise and aliasing artifacts are amplified during the reconstruction process and are serious especially for high accelerating imaging. In this paper, a sparse constrained reconstruction problem is proposed for parallel imaging, and an effective solution based on the variable splitting method is contrived. First-order and second-order norm optimization problems are first split, and then they are transferred to unconstrained minimization problem by the augmented Lagrangian method. At last, first-order norm and second-order norm optimization problems are alternatively resolved by different methods. With a discrepancy principle as the stopping criterion, analysis of simulated and actual parallel magnetic resonance image reconstruction is presented and discussed. Compared with the routine parallel imaging reconstruction methods, the results show that the noise and aliasing artifacts in the reconstructed image are evidently reduced at large acceleration factors.
A New Representation of Efficient Point Sets and Its Applications in DEA
Authors: Li Maoqin
Published: March 2013

E(M,K)  (Ew(M,K)), the set of Pareto efficient (weak efficient) points of a setMwith respect to a coneKinRn, is expressed as a differencebetweentwo setsMandM+K∖{0}(MandM+intK). Using the new representation, the properties ofE(M,K)are proved more easily than before. WhenMorKis in the form of union, intersection, sum, or difference of two sets or two cones, respectively, the properties ofE(M,K)are considered. Most of the properties are proved by the binary operations of sets, which is a new method in the multiobjective optimization. Then these properties are used to solve some types of multiobjective linear programming problems corresponding to Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) models. The structures of the DEA efficient solution sets of four most representative DEA models are developed. Further more, the relationships between efficiencies of the four DEA models are deduced.
Serum Concentrations of Transforming Growth Factor-Beta 1 in Predicting the Occurrence of Diabetic Retinopathy in Juvenile Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zorena Katarzyna , Malinowska Ewa , Raczyńska Dorota , Myśliwiec Małgorzata , Raczyńska Krystyna
Published: March 2013

In the present study, we have decided to evaluate if serum transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) concentrations may have diagnostic value in predicting the occurrence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in juvenile patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The study included 81 children and adolescents with T1DM and 19 control subjects. All study participants had biochemical parameters examined, underwent an eye examination, and 24-hour blood pressure monitoring. Moreover, serum concentrations of TGF-β1 were measured. The group of patients with T1DM and nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) had statistically significant higher serum levels of TGF-β1 (P=0.001) as compared to T1DM patients without retinopathy as well as the healthy control subject. The threshold serum TGF-β1 concentrations which had a discriminative ability to predict the presence of DR were calculated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis and amounted to 443 pg/ml. The area under the ROC curve (AUCROC) was 0.80, and its population value was in the range of 0.66 to 0.94. The sensitivity and specificity were calculated to be 72% and 88%, respectively. Our results suggest that TGF-β1 serum concentrations may be an additional parameter in predicting the occurrence of DR in juvenile patients with T1DM.
Open Reading Frame Phylogenetic Analysis on the Cloud
Authors: Hung Che-Lun , Lin Chun-Yuan
Published: March 2013

Phylogenetic analysis has become essential in researching the evolutionary relationships between viruses. These relationships are depicted on phylogenetic trees, in which viruses are grouped based on sequence similarity. Viral evolutionary relationships are identified from open reading frames rather than from complete sequences. Recently, cloud computing has become popular for developing internet-based bioinformatics tools. Biocloud is an efficient, scalable, and robust bioinformatics computing service. In this paper, we propose a cloud-based open reading frame phylogenetic analysis service. The proposed service integrates the Hadoop framework, virtualization technology, and phylogenetic analysis methods to provide a high-availability, large-scale bioservice. In a case study, we analyze the phylogenetic relationships amongNorovirus. Evolutionary relationships are elucidated by aligning different open reading frame sequences. The proposed platform correctly identifies the evolutionary relationships between members ofNorovirus.
Semiautomatic Segmentation of Ventilated Airspaces in Healthy and Asthmatic Subjects Using HyperpolarizedHeMRI
Authors: Lui J. K. , LaPrad A. S. , Parameswaran H. , Sun Y. , Albert M. S. , Lutchen K. R.
Published: March 2013

A segmentation algorithm to isolate areas of ventilation from hyperpolarized helium-3 magnetic resonance imaging (HP3He MRI) is described. The algorithm was tested with HP3He MRI data from four healthy and six asthmatic subjects. Ventilated lung volume (VLV) measured using our semiautomated technique was compared to that obtained from manual outlining of ventilated lung regions and to standard spirometric measurements. VLVs from both approaches were highly correlated (R=0.99;P<0.0001) with a mean difference of 3.8 mL and 95% agreement indices of −30.8 mL and 38.4 mL. There was no significant difference between the VLVs obtained through the semiautomatic approach and the manual approach. A Dice coefficient which quantified the intersection of the two datasets was calculated and ranged from 0.95 to 0.97 with a mean of 0.96 ± 0.01 (mean ± SD). VLVs obtained through the semiautomatic algorithm were also highly correlated with measurements of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (R=0.82;P=0.0035) and forced vital capacity (FVC) (R=0.95;P<0.0001). The technique may open new pathways toward advancing more quantitative characterization of ventilation for routine clinical assessment for asthma severity as well as a number of other respiratory diseases.
Neutron Star Interiors and Topology Change
Authors: Kuhfittig Peter K. F.
Published: March 2013

Quark matter is believed to exist in the center of neutron stars. A combined model consisting of quark matter and ordinary matter is used to show that the extreme conditions existing in the center could result in a topology change, that is, in the formation of wormholes.
Saving Significant Amount of Time in MD Simulations by Using an Implicit Solvent Model and Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Shub Ifat , Schreiber Ehud , Kliger Yossef
Published: March 2013

Molecular dynamic simulations are used for investigating various aspects of biological processes. Such simulations often require intensive computer power; therefore several solutions were developed to minimize the computer power needed, including the usage of elevated temperatures. Yet, such simulations are still not commonly used by the wide scientific community of chemists and biochemists. For about two years now, the molecular simulations suite GROMACS enables conducting simulations using implicit solvent models to further decrease runtimes. In order to quantify the saving in computer power, and to confirm the validity of the models, we followed the simple dissolution process of a single NaCl molecule. The results reveal approximately 350-fold decrease in real-world runtime when using an implicit solvent model and an elevated temperature, compared to using explicit water molecules and simulating at room temperature. In addition, in a wide range of temperatures, the dissolution times of NaCl are distributed, as expected, exponentially, both in explicit and in implicit solvent models, hence confirming the validity of the simulation approach. Hopefully, our findings will encourage many scientists to take advantage of the recent progress in the molecular dynamics field for various applications.
Balance Analysis of Microstrip-to-CPS Baluns and Its Effects on Broadband Antenna Performance
Authors: Woo Dong Sik , Cho Young-Ki , Kim Kang Wook
Published: March 2013

Amplitude and phase balances of two types of microstrip-(MS-) to-coplanar stripline (CPS) baluns have been analyzed through simulations and measurements, and their effects on broadband antenna performance are investigated. The impedance bandwidth of the balun determined by a back-to-back configuration can sometimes overestimate the balun operating bandwidth. With the conventional balun with a 180° phase delay line, it is observed that the balun balance over the operating frequencies becomes much more improved as the CPS length increases to over 0.1 λg. As compared with the conventional balun, the proposed MS-to-CPS balun demonstrated very wideband performance from 5 to over 20 GHz. With the proposed balun, amplitude and phase imbalances are within 1 dB and ±5°, respectively. Effects of the balun imbalance on overall broadband antenna performance are also discussed with a quasi-Yagi antenna and a narrow beamwidth tapered slot antenna (TSA).
Refinement of a Previous Hypothesis of the Lyapunov Analysis of Isotropic Turbulence
Authors: de Divitiis Nicola
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this paper is to improve a hypothesis of the previous work of N. de Divitiis (2011) dealing with the finite-scale Lyapunov analysis of isotropic turbulence. There, the analytical expression of the structure function of the longitudinal velocity differenceΔuris derived through a statistical analysis of the Fourier transformed Navier-Stokes equations and by means of considerations regarding the scales of the velocity fluctuations, which arise from the Kolmogorov theory. Due to these latter considerations, this Lyapunov analysis seems to need some of the results of the Kolmogorov theory. This work proposes a more rigorous demonstration which leads to the same structure function, without using the Kolmogorov scale. This proof assumes that pair and triple longitudinal correlations are sufficient to determine the statistics ofΔurand adopts a reasonable canonical decomposition of the velocity difference in terms of proper stochastic variables which are adequate to describe the mechanism of kinetic energy cascade.
Artificial Box C/D RNAs Affect Pre-mRNA Maturation in Human Cells
Authors: Stepanov Grigoriy A. , Semenov Dmitry V. , Savelyeva Anna V. , Kuligina Elena V. , Koval Olga A. , Rabinov Igor V. , Richter Vladimir A.
Published: March 2013

Box C/D small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are known to guide the2′-O-ribose methylation of nucleotides in eukaryotic ribosomal RNAs and small nuclear RNAs. Recently snoRNAs are predicted to regulate posttranscriptional modifications of pre-mRNA. To expand understanding of the role of snoRNAs in control of gene expression, in this study we tested the ability of artificial box C/D RNAs to affect the maturation of target pre-mRNA. We found that transfection of artificial box C/D snoRNA analogues directed toHSPA8pre-mRNAs into human cells induced suppression of the target mRNA expression in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The artificial box C/D RNA directed to the branch point adenosine of the second intron, as well as the analogue directed to the last nucleotide of the second exon of theHSPA8pre-mRNA caused the most prominent influence on the level ofHSPA8mRNAs. Neither box D nor the ability to direct2′-O-methylation of nucleotides in target RNA was essential for the knockdown activity of artificial snoRNAs. Inasmuch as artificial box C/D RNAs decreased viability of transfected human cells, we propose that natural snoRNAs as well as their artificial analogues can influence the maturation of complementary pre-mRNA and can be effective regulators of vital cellular processes.
A Generalized Version of a Low Velocity Impact between a Rigid Sphere and a Transversely Isotropic Strain-Hardening Plate Supported by a Rigid Substrate Using the Concept of Noninteger Derivatives
Authors: Atangana Abdon , Ahmed O. Aden , Bıldık Necdet
Published: March 2013

A low velocity impact between a rigid sphere and transversely isotropic strain-hardening plate supported by a rigid substrate is generalized to the concept of noninteger derivatives order. A brief history of fractional derivatives order is presented. The fractional derivatives order adopted is in Caputo sense. The new equation is solved via the analytical technique, the Homotopy decomposition method (HDM). The technique is described and the numerical simulations are presented. Since it is very important to accurately predict the contact force and its time history, the three stages of the indentation process, including (1) the elastic indentation, (2) the plastic indentation, and (3) the elastic unloading stages, are investigated.
China and the Global Uranium Market: Prospects for Peaceful Coexistence
Authors: Massot Pascale , Chen Zhan-Ming
Published: March 2013

China′s recent reemergence has resulted in a significant increase in the global demand of commodities and is already having major impacts on the dynamics of global commodity markets. In the case of the global uranium market, we stand at the very beginning of a period of change. However, interesting trends are already emerging. Whereas China has had many policy reversals, and some difficulties in taking control of its procurement strategy in other commodity markets, it is seemingly more successful in managing its uranium procurement strategy. Why? The argument presented here is that a mixture of domestic and international level variables has allowed China more room for maneuver in fulfilling its uranium procurement strategy. On the domestic level, a centralized industry, and, on the international level, a geographically dispersed and uncoordinated market have allowed China to forge ahead with an ambitious civilian nuclear power plan and triple its total uranium imports, all within the span of a few years. Many challenges remain, not the least that of negative public opinion, which has surged since the Fukushima disaster in 2011. Nevertheless, should uranium demand continue to grow, this paper will consider the potential for continued peaceful coexistence among uranium market participants worldwide.
Hyperoxic Vasoconstriction of Human Pulmonary Arteries: A Novel Insight into Acute Ventricular Septal Defects
Authors: Ariyaratnam Priyadharshanan , Loubani Mahmoud , Bennett Robert , Griffin Steven , Chaudhry Mubarak A. , Cowen Michael E. , Guvendik Levant , Cale Alexander R. J. , Morice Alyn H.
Published: March 2013

Objectives. Acute rises in pulmonary artery pressures following postinfarction ventricular septal defects present a challenge. We hypothesised that the abnormally high oxygen content exposure to the pulmonary arteries may be a factor. We investigated the contractile responses of human pulmonary arteries to changes in oxygen tension. Methods. Isometric tension was measured in large and medium sized pulmonary artery rings obtained from lung resections for patients with bronchial carcinoma
(n=30). Fresh rings were mounted in organ baths bubbled under basal conditions with hyperoxic or normoxic gas mixes and the gas tensions varied during the experiment. We studied whether voltage-gated calcium channels and nitric oxide signalling had any role in responses to oxygen changes. Results. Hypoxia caused a net mean relaxation of 18.1% ± 15.5 (P<0.005) from hyperoxia. Subsequent hyperoxia caused a contraction of 19.2% ± 13.5 (P<0.005). Arteries maintained in normoxia responded to hyperoxia with a mean constriction of 14.8% ± 3.9 (P<0.005). Nifedipine inhibited the vasoconstrictive response (P<0.05) whilst L-NAME had no effect on any hypoxic vasodilatory response. Conclusions. We demonstrate that hyperoxia leads to vasoconstriction in human pulmonary arteries. The mechanism appears to be dependent on voltage-gated calcium channels. Hyperoxic vasoconstriction may contribute to acute rises in pulmonary artery pressures.
Can Neutrophil‐Lymphocyte Ratio and Lymph Node Density Be Used as Prognostic Factors in Patients Undergoing Radical Cystectomy?
Authors: Demirtaş Abdullah , Sabur Volkan , Akınsal Emre Can , Demirci Deniz , Ekmekcioglu Oguz , Gulmez Ibrahim , Tatlisen Atila
Published: March 2013

Objective. To assessment the role of preoperative neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio and postoperative lymph node density in predicting prognosis in patients undergoing radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. Material and Methods. Preoperatively, neutrophil and lymphocyte counts as well as neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratios were recorded in 201 patients who underwent radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. Patients with an infection were excluded. Based on the pathology reports, the number of positive lymph nodes was divided by the total number of lymph nodes to calculate lymph node density. Results. The mean follow‐up duration was 37.22 ± 35.922 months in patients without lymph node involvement and 27.75 ± 31.501 months in those with lymph node involvement (P = 0.015). Median lymph node density was 17% (4–80) in patients with lymph node involvement. There was no difference according to lymph node density lower than 17% and greater than 17% (P = 0.336). There was no significant difference between patients with an NLR below or above 2.5 in terms of overall survival (P  =  0.702). Pathological T stage was associated with survival (P = 0.004). Conclusion. In patients undergoing RC for bladder cancer, lymph node density and preoperative NLR were not found to be independent predictors of prognosis.
Effects of Borneol on Pharmacokinetics and Tissue Distribution of Notoginsenoside R1 and Ginsenosides Rg1 and Re inPanax notoginsengin Rabbits
Authors: Wang Shixiang , Zang Weijin , Zhao Xinfeng , Feng Weiyi , Zhao Ming , He Xi , Liu Qinshe , Zheng Xiaohui
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of Borneol on the pharmacokinetics of notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) and the ginsenosides Rg1 (GRg1) and Re (GRe) inPanax notoginseng. Reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ion trap mass spectrometry was employed to determine the concentrations of the three compounds in rabbit plasma. In comparison with rabbits administratedPanax notoginsengextract alone, animals simultaneously takingPanax notoginsengextract and Borneol exhibited significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters of NGR1, GRg1, and GRe, such as increasing their bioavailability. Quantities of NGR1, GRg1, and GRe in rabbit tissues were also increased after combining administration of Borneol. In addition, the apparent permeability coefficients (Papp) of NGR1, GRg1, and GRe were raised by Borneol significantly in Caco-2 cells. However, no significant changes were observed in the efflux ratio (Er) of NGR1, GRg1 and GRe. These data indicate that Borneol has the properties of enhancing the intestinal absorption, increasing the distribution, and inhibiting the metabolism of NGR1, GRg1, and GRe. The underlying mechanism might be attributed to the loosening of the intercellular tight junction.
Cone Beam Computed Tomography Evaluation of the Periapical Status of Nonvital Tooth with Open Apex Obturated with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate: A Case Report
Authors: Shekhar Vijay , Shashikala K.
Published: March 2013

Management of a tooth with open apex is a challenge to the dental practitioners. Evaluation of the periapical healing is required in such cases by radiographic techniques. The objective of this paper was to assess the healing of a periapical lesion in a non-vital tooth with open apex treated with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) obturation using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The endodontic treatment of a fractured non-vital discolored maxillary left lateral incisor with an open apex was done with MTA obturation. The clinical and radiographic followup done regularly showed that the tooth was clinically asymptomatic and that the size of the periapical lesion observed by intraoral periapical (IOPA) radiographs and CBCT was decreased remarkably after two years. CBCT and IOPA radiographs were found to be useful radiographic tools to assess the healing of a large periapical lesion in a non-vital tooth with open apex managed by MTA obturation.