bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facile Deposition of Ultrafine Silver Particles on Silicon Surface Not Submerged in Precursor Solutions for Applications in Antireflective Layer
Authors: Jiang Bing , Li Meicheng , Song Dandan , Li Yingfeng , Mwenya Trevor
Published: April 2014

Using a facile deposition method, the ultrafine silver particles are successfully deposited on the Si surface that is not submerged in precursor solutions. The ultrafine silver particles have many advantages, such as quasiround shape, uniformity in size, monodisperse distribution, and reduction of agglomeration. The internal physical procedure in the deposition is also investigated. The results show that there are more particles on the rough Si surface due to the wetting effect of solid‐liquid interface. The higher concentration of ethanol solvent can induce the increase of quantity and size of particles on Si surface not in solutions. The ultrafine particles can be used to prepare porous Si antireflective layer in solar cell applications.
High Temperature Gas-to-Gas Heat Exchanger Based on a Solid Intermediate Medium
Authors: Amirante R. , Tamburrano P.
Published: April 2014

This paper proposes the design of an innovative high temperature gas-to-gas heat exchanger based on solid particles as intermediate medium, with application in medium and large scale externally fired combined power plants fed by alternative and dirty fuels, such as biomass and coal. An optimization procedure, performed by means of a genetic algorithm combined with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis, is employed for the design of the heat exchanger: the goal is the minimization of its size for an assigned heat exchanger efficiency. Two cases, corresponding to efficiencies equal to 80% and 90%, are considered. The scientific and technical difficulties for the realization of the heat exchanger are also faced up; in particular, this work focuses on the development both of a pressurization device, which is needed to move the solid particles within the heat exchanger, and of a pneumatic conveyor, which is required to deliver back the particles from the bottom to the top of the plant in order to realize a continuous operation mode. An analytical approach and a thorough experimental campaign are proposed to analyze the proposed systems and to evaluate the associated energy losses.
Parallel-Batch Scheduling and Transportation Coordination with Waiting Time Constraint
Authors: Gong Hua , Chen Daheng , Xu Ke
Published: April 2014

This paper addresses a parallel-batch scheduling problem that incorporates transportation of raw materials or semifinished products before processing with waiting time constraint. The orders located at the different suppliers are transported by some vehicles to a manufacturing facility for further processing. One vehicle can load only one order in one shipment. Each order arriving at the facility must be processed in the limited waiting time. The orders are processed in batches on a parallel-batch machine, where a batch contains several orders and the processing time of the batch is the largest processing time of the orders in it. The goal is to find a schedule to minimize the sum of the total flow time and the production cost. We prove that the general problem is NP-hard in the strong sense. We also demonstrate that the problem with equal processing times on the machine is NP-hard. Furthermore, a dynamic programming algorithm in pseudopolynomial time is provided to prove its ordinarily NP-hardness. An optimal algorithm in polynomial time is presented to solve a special case with equal processing times and equal transportation times for each order.
Assessing the Influence of Summer Organic Fertilization Combined with Nitrogen Inhibitor on a Short Rotation Woody Crop in Mediterranean Environment
Authors: Maienza Anita , Mughini Giovanni , Salvati Luca , Benedetti Anna , Dell'Abate Maria Teresa
Published: April 2014

The European Union Directive 91/676/EEC, known as Nitrates Directive, has dictated basic agronomic principles regarding the use of animal manure source as well as livestock and waste waters from small food companies. The use of nitrification inhibitors together with animal effluents as organic fertilizers could be beneficial for nutrient recycling, plant productivity, and greenhouse gas emission and could offer economic advantages as alternative to conventional fertilizers especially in the Mediterranean region. The aim of the present study was to investigate differences in plant productivity between bovine effluent treatments with (or without) addition of a nitrification inhibitor (3,4 DMPP) in a short rotation woody crop system. Results of the field experiment carried out in a Mediterranean dry environment indicated that the proposed strategy could improve tree growth with indirect, beneficial effects for agroforestry systems.
Maternal Body Mass Index and Risk of Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury
Authors: Blomberg Marie
Published: April 2014

Objective. To estimate the association between maternal obesity and risk of three different degrees of severity of obstetric anal sphincter injury.Methods. The study population consisted of 436,482 primiparous women with singleton term vaginal cephalic births between 1998 and 2011 identified in the Swedish Medical Birth Registry. Women were grouped into six categories of BMI. BMI 18.5–24.9 was set as reference. Primary outcome was third-degree perineal laceration, partial or total, and fourth-degree perineal laceration. Adjustments were made for year of delivery, maternal age, fetal head position at delivery, infant birth weight and instrumental delivery.Results. The overall prevalence of third- or four-degree anal sphincter injury was 6.6% (partial anal sphincter injury 4.6%, total anal sphincter injury 1.2%, unclassified as either partial and total 0.2%, or fourth degree lacerations 0.6%). The risk for a partial, total, or a fourth-degree anal sphincter injury decreased with increasing maternal BMI most pronounced for total anal sphincter injury where the risk among morbidly obese women was half that of normal weight women, OR 0.47 95% CI 0.28–0.78.Conclusion. Obese women had a favourable outcome compared to normal weight women concerning serious pelvic floor damages at birth.
Posttransplant Allosensitization in Low Immunological Risk Kidney and Kidney-Pancreas Graft Recipients
Authors: Malheiro Jorge , Tafulo Sandra , Dias Leonídio , Martins La Salete , Fonseca Isabel , Almeida Manuela , Pedroso Sofia , Freitas Fátima , Beirão Idalina , Castro Henriques António , Cabrita António
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Posttransplantation allosensitization prevalence and effect on kidney grafts outcomes remain unsettled.Methods. Between 2007 and 2012, 408 patients received a primary kidney graft (with 68 patients also receiving a pancreas graft) after a negative cytotoxic crossmatch. All patients had a pretransplant negative anti-HLA screening and 0% panel reactive antibodies. We analyzed retrospectively the results of anti-HLA antibodies screening by Luminex assay, performed between 6 and 24 months after transplant, and searched for the risk factors for antibody positivity and its impact on kidney graft outcomes.Results. Anti-HLA antibodies prevalence at 6 months was 17.4%. Previous steroid-insensitive acute rejection was the only risk factor for both anti-HLA classes detected antibodies. Antithymocyte globulin induction was also a risk factor for anti-HLA-I antibodies. Antibody positivity status was associated with reduced graft function at 12 months and graft survival at 5 years (91.5% versus 96.4%,P=0.03). In multivariable Cox analysis, delayed graft function (HR = 6.1,P<0.01), HLA mismatches>3 (HR = 10.2,P=0.03), and antibody positivity for anti-HLA class II (HR = 5.1,P=0.04) or class I/II (HR = 13.8,P<0.01) were independent predictors of graft loss.Conclusions. Allosensitization against HLA classII±Iafter transplant was associated with adverse kidney graft outcomes. A screening protocol seems advisable within the first year in low immunological risk patients.
Stochastic Maximum Principle for Partial Information Optimal Control Problem of Forward-Backward Systems Involving Classical and Impulse Controls
Authors: Wang Yan , Song Aimin , Feng Enmin
Published: April 2014

We study the partial information classical and impulse controls problem of forward-backward systems driven by Lévy processes, where the control variable consists of two components: the classical stochastic control and the impulse control; the information available to the controller is possibly less than the full information, that is, partial information. We derive a maximum principle to give the sufficient and necessary optimality conditions for the local critical points of the classical and impulse controls problem. As an application, we apply the maximum principle to a portfolio optimization problem with piecewise consumption processes and give its explicit solutions.
Synthetic Strategies and Applications of GaN Nanowires
Authors: Suo Guoquan , Jiang Shuai , Zhang Juntao , Li Jianye , He Meng
Published: April 2014

GaN is an important III-V semiconductor material with a direct band gap of 3.4 eV at 300 K. The wide direct band gap makes GaN an attractive material for various applications. GaN nanowires have demonstrated significant potential as fundamental building blocks for nanoelectronic and nanophotonic devices and also offer substantial promise for integrated nanosystems. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review on the general synthetic strategies, characterizations, and applications of GaN nanowires. We first summarize several growth techniques of GaN nanowires. Subsequently, we discuss mechanisms involved to generate GaN nanowires from different synthetic schemes and conditions. Then we review some characterization methods of GaN nanowires. Finally, several kinds of main applications of GaN nanowires are discussed.
Molecular Screening of Virulence Genes in Extraintestinal PathogenicEscherichia coliIsolated from Human Blood Culture in Brazil
Authors: Koga Vanessa L. , Tomazetto Geizecler , Cyoia Paula S. , Neves Meiriele S. , Vidotto Marilda C. , Nakazato Gerson , Kobayashi Renata K. T.
Published: April 2014

Extraintestinal pathogenicEscherichia coli(ExPEC) is one of the main etiological agents of bloodstream infections caused by Gram-negative bacilli. In the present study, 20E. coliisolates from human hemocultures were characterized to identify genetic features associated with virulence (pathogenicity islands markers, phylogenetic group, virulence genes, plasmid profiles, and conjugative plasmids) and these results were compared with commensal isolates. The most prevalent pathogenicity island, in strains from hemoculture, were PAI IV536, described by many researchers as a stable island in enterobacteria. Among virulence genes,iutA gene was found more frequently and this gene enconding the aerobactin siderophore receptor. According to the phylogenetic classification, group B2 was the most commonly found. Additionally, through plasmid analysis, 14 isolates showed plasmids and 3 of these were shown to be conjugative. Although in stool samples of healthy people the presence of commensal strains is common, human intestinal tract may serve as a reservoir for ExPEC.
Objective and Comprehensive Evaluation of Bisulfite Short Read Mapping Tools
Authors: Tran Hong , Porter Jacob , Sun Ming-an , Xie Hehuang , Zhang Liqing
Published: April 2014

Background. Large-scale bisulfite treatment and short reads sequencing technology allow comprehensive estimation of methylation states of Cs in the genomes of different tissues, cell types, and developmental stages. Accurate characterization of DNA methylation is essential for understanding genotype phenotype association, gene and environment interaction, diseases, and cancer. Aligning bisulfite short reads to a reference genome has been a challenging task. We compared five bisulfite short read mapping tools, BSMAP, Bismark, BS-Seeker, BiSS, and BRAT-BW, representing two classes of mapping algorithms (hash table and suffix/prefix tries). We examined their mapping efficiency (i.e., the percentage of reads that can be mapped to the genomes), usability, running time, and effects of changing default parameter settings using both real and simulated reads. We also investigated how preprocessing data might affect mapping efficiency. Conclusion. Among the five programs compared, in terms of mapping efficiency, Bismark performs the best on the real data, followed by BiSS, BSMAP, and finally BRAT-BW and BS-Seeker with very similar performance. If CPU time is not a constraint, Bismark is a good choice of program for mapping bisulfite treated short reads. Data quality impacts a great deal mapping efficiency. Although increasing the number of mismatches allowed can increase mapping efficiency, it not only significantly slows down the program, but also runs the risk of having increased false positives. Therefore, users should carefully set the related parameters depending on the quality of their sequencing data.
Sensor Resource Sharing Approaches in Sensor-Cloud Infrastructure
Authors: Lim Yujin , Park Jaesung
Published: April 2014

Generally, wireless sensor networks have been designed to support predefined application services. The tight coupling between a network and application limits the usability of sensor data. To increase the utilities of wireless sensor networks, sensor-cloud infrastructure has been proposed to provide an open and flexible platform to gather, store, use, and share data from heterogeneous sensors. In this paper, we introduce sensor-cloud infrastructure and present not only comprehensive technical issues like sensor description and publish/subscribe middleware but also applications using sensor-cloud infrastructure. When the issues are tackled in the development of sensor-cloud system, the attractiveness of new applications and services will considerably be increased for end users.
Crude Ethanol Extract of Pithecellobium ellipticum as a Potential Lipid‐Lowering Treatment for Hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Wong Janet P.-C. , Wijaya Sumi , Ting Kang-Nee , Wiart Christophe , Mustafa Kamarul’Ain , Shipton Fiona , Khoo Teng-Jin
Published: April 2014

If left untreated, hypercholesterolaemia can lead to atherosclerosis, given time. Plants from the Fabaceae family have shown the ability to significantly suppress atherosclerosis progression. We selected four extracts from Pithecellobium ellipticum, from the Fabaceae family, to be screened in a 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG‐CoA reductase) assay. The ethanol extract, at a concentration of 500 μg/mL, exhibited superior inhibition properties over the other extracts by demonstrating 80.9% inhibition, while 0.223 μg/mL of pravastatin (control) showed 78.1% inhibition towards enzymatic activity. These findings led to the fractionation of the ethanol extract using ethyl acetate : methanol (95 : 5), gradually increasing polarity and produced seven fractions (1A to 7A). Fraction 7A at 150 μg/mL emerged as being the most promising bioactive fraction with 78.7% inhibition. FRAP, beta carotene, and DPPH assays supported the findings from the ethanol extract as it exhibited good overall antioxidant activity. The antioxidant properties have been said to reduce free radicals that are able to oxidize lipoproteins which are the cause of atherosclerosis. Phytochemical screenings revealed the presence of terpenoid, steroid, flavonoid, and phenolic compounds as the responsible group of compound(s), working individually or synergistically, within the extract to prevent binding of HMG‐CoA to HMG‐CoA reductase.
Mechanical Stress Stimulates the Osteo/Odontoblastic Differentiation of Human Stem Cells from Apical Papilla via ERK 1/2 and JNK MAPK Pathways
Authors: Mu Chao , Lv Taohong , Wang Zilu , Ma Shu , Ma Jie , Liu Jin , Yu Jinhua , Mu Jinquan
Published: April 2014

Background Information. Stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs) are a potent candidate for the apexogenesis/apexification due to their multiple differentiation capacity. During the orthodontic treatment of developing teeth, SCAPsin vivoare usually subjected to the cyclic stress induced by compression forces. However, it remains unclear whether mechanical stress can affect the proliferation and differentiation of human SCAPs.Results. Human SCAPs were isolated and stimulated by 200 g mechanical stimuli for 30 min and their proliferation and differentiation capacity were evaluatedin vitroat different time points. MTT and FCM results demonstrated that cell proliferation was enhanced, while TEM findings showed the morphological and ultrastructural changes in stress-treated SCAPs. ALP activity and mineralization capacity of stress-treated SCAPs were upregulated . In the meantime, higher odontogenic and osteogenic differentiation were found in stress-treated SCAPs by real-time RT-PCR and Western blot, as indicated by the expression of related markers at both mRNA and protein levels. Moreover, the protein expressions of pJNK and pERK MAPK pathways were upregulated.Conclusion. Together, these findings suggest that mechanical stress is an important factor affecting the proliferation and differentiation of SCAPs via the activation of ERK and JNK signaling pathway.
Mechanisms of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy Reduction for Saline (NaCl) and Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO3)
Authors: Burgess W. Patrick , Walker Phillip J.
Published: April 2014

Nephropathy following contrast media (CM) exposure is reduced by administration before, during, and after the contrast procedure of either isotonic sodium chloride solution (Saline) or isotonic sodium bicarbonate solution (IsoBicarb). The reasons for this reduction are not well established for either sodium salt; probable mechanisms are discussed in this paper. For Saline, the mechanism for the decrease in CIN is likely related primarily to the increased tubular flow rates produced by volume expansion and therefore a decreased concentration of the filtered CM during transit through the kidney tubules. Furthermore, increased tubular flow rates produce a slight increase in tubular pH resulting from a fixed acid excretion in an increased tubular volume. The mechanism for the decreased CIN associated with sodium bicarbonate includes the same mechanisms listed for Saline in addition to a renal pH effect. Increased filtered bicarbonate anion raises both tubular pH and tubular bicarbonate anion levels toward blood physiologic levels, thus providing increased buffer for reactive oxygen species (ROS) formed in the tubules as a result of exposure to CM in renal tubular fluid.
Measurement of Congestion in the Simultaneous Presence of Desirable and Undesirable Outputs
Authors: Zare-Haghighi H. , Rostamy-Malkhalifeh M. , Jahanshahloo G. R.
Published: April 2014

The concept of congestion, which is mainly applied in economics, refers to a situation where inputs are overinvested. Many studies have focused on congestion measurement by means of data envelopment analysis (DEA). However, most of the previous investigations only considered the framework of desirable outputs. In fact, firms in the real world unavoidably generate undesirable outputs (such as pollutants or wastes) along with desirable outputs. Therefore, a new scheme is required for measuring congestion in the simultaneous presence of both desirable and undesirable outputs. This paper develops a nonradial efficiency measure for including undesirable outputs into the environmental performance. Based on the proposed model, a new definition and a new approach are presented to deal with congestion in the simultaneous presence of desirable and undesirable outputs. Then, this paper uses the presented method to study the pollutants (waste gas emission and waste discharge) of 31 administrative regions of China. The finding indicates that 7 industries pay attention to the reduction of their pollutants accompanying improvement of their commercial targets. Consequently, they do not show congestion in any input.
A Review of the Flammability Factors of Kenaf and Allied Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Lee C. H. , Salit Mohd Sapuan , Hassan M. R.
Published: April 2014

Natural fibre is a well-known reinforcement fibre in polymer-matrix Composites (PMC) lately. Natural fibre has fast growing and abundance properties which make it available at very low cost. For kenaf fibre there is long lists of research projects which have been done regarding its behaviour, and properties and modification made to it. In this paper, fire flammability is the main concern for natural fibre reinforced polymer (NFRP) composites especially kenaf fibre. To estimate its flammability, a wide range of factors can be considered such as fibre content, type of matrices, pH conditions, treatment, and fire retardant (FR) filler’s type. The most important criteria are the ignition time, rate of propagation, and fire behavior. thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), different scanning calorimetric (DSC), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) are the three most famous methods used to investigate the fire behaviour of composites.
Regularity in Vague Intersection Graphs and Vague Line Graphs
Authors: Akram Muhammad , Dudek Wieslaw A. , Yousaf M. Murtaza
Published: April 2014

Fuzzy graph theory is commonly used in computer science applications, particularly in database theory, data mining, neural networks, expert systems, cluster analysis, control theory, and image capturing. A vague graph is a generalized structure of a fuzzy graph that gives more precision, flexibility, and compatibility to a system when compared with systems that are designed using fuzzy graphs. In this paper, we introduce the notion of vague line graphs, and certain types of vague line graphs and present some of their properties. We also discuss an example application of vague digraphs.
Nonprofessional Phagocytic Cell Receptors Involved inStaphylococcus aureusInternalization
Authors: Alva-Murillo Nayeli , López-Meza Joel Edmundo , Ochoa-Zarzosa Alejandra
Published: April 2014

Staphylococcus aureusis a successful human and animal pathogen. The majority of infections caused by this pathogen are life threatening, primarily becauseS. aureushas developed multiple evasion strategies, possesses intracellular persistence for long periods, and targets the skin and soft tissues. Therefore, it is very important to understand the mechanisms employed byS. aureusto colonize and proliferate in these cells. The aim of this review is to describe the recent discoveries concerning the host receptors of nonprofessional phagocytes involved inS. aureusinternalization. Most of the knowledge related to the interaction ofS. aureuswith its host cells has been described in professional phagocytic cells such as macrophages. Here, we showed that in nonprofessional phagocytes theα5β1 integrin host receptor, chaperons, and the scavenger receptor CD36 are the main receptors employed duringS. aureusinternalization. The characterization and identification of new bacterial effectors and the host cell receptors involved will undoubtedly lead to new discoveries with beneficial purposes.
A Giant Dissecting Aneurysm of Ascending Aorta Following Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Hökenek Faruk , Gürsoy Mete , Gülcan Füsun , Duygu Egemen , Şener Murat
Published: April 2014

Ascending aortic dissection and aneurysm are rare but life-threatening complications after aortic valve replacement. Preoperative evaluation of risk factors such as aortic diameter, structural features of aortic wall, and associated diseases may decrease complication rate. We herein present analysis of risk factors of proximal aortic events following aortic valve replacement based on patient with giant dissecting aneurysm who underwent modified Bentall procedure.
Herbal Prescription, DSGOST, Prevents Cold‐Induced RhoA Activation and Endothelin‐1 Production in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Cho Sung-Gook , Go Ho Yeon , Park Jeong-Su , Jung Ki-Yong , Sun Seung-Ho , Choi You-Kyung , Song Yun-Kyung , Park Jong-Hyeong , Jun Chan-Yong , Ko Seong Gyu
Published: April 2014

Herbal prescription, Danggui‐Sayuk‐Ga‐Osuyu‐Saenggang‐tang (DSGOST), has long been used to treat Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, a biological mechanism by which DSGOST ameliorates RP is yet deciphered. In this study, we demonstrate that DSGOST inhibits cold‐induced activation of RhoA, in both vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and endothelial cells (EC), and blocks endothelin‐1‐mediated paracrine path for cold response on vessels. While cold induced RhoA activity in both cell types, DSGOST pretreatment prevented cold‐induced RhoA activation. DSGOST inhibition of cold‐induced RhoA activation further blocked α2c‐adrenoreceptor translocation to the plasma membrane in VSMC. In addition, DSGOST inhibited endothelin‐1‐mediated RhoA activation and α2c‐adrenoreceptor translocation in VSMC. Meanwhile, DSGOST inhibited cold‐induced or RhoA‐dependent phosphorylation of FAK, SRC, and ERK. Consistently, DSGOST inhibited cold‐induced endothelin‐1 expression in EC. Therefore, DSGOST prevents cold‐induced RhoA in EC and blocks endothelin‐1‐mediated paracrine path between EC and VSMC. In conclusion, our data suggest that DSGOST is beneficial for treating RP‐like syndrome.
On the Numerical Solution of One-Dimensional Nonlinear Nonhomogeneous Burgers’ Equation
Authors: Sarboland Maryam , Aminataei Azim
Published: April 2014

The nonlinear Burgers’ equation is a simple form of Navier-Stocks equation. The nonlinear nature of Burgers’ equation has been exploited as a useful prototype differential equation for modeling many phenomena. This paper proposes two meshfree methods for solving the one-dimensional nonlinear nonhomogeneous Burgers’ equation. These methods are based on the multiquadric (MQ) quasi-interpolation operatorℒ𝒲2and direct and indirect radial basis function networks (RBFNs) schemes. In the present schemes, the Taylors series expansion is used to discretize the temporal derivative and the quasi-interpolation is used to approximate the solution function and its spatial derivatives. In order to show the efficiency of the present methods, several experiments are considered. Our numerical solutions are compared with the analytical solutions as well as the results of other numerical schemes. Furthermore, the stability analysis of the methods is surveyed. It can be easily seen that the proposed methods are efficient, robust, and reliable for solving Burgers’ equation.
Fungal Laccases Degradation of Endocrine Disrupting Compounds
Authors: Macellaro Gemma , Pezzella Cinzia , Cicatiello Paola , Sannia Giovanni , Piscitelli Alessandra
Published: April 2014

Over the past decades, water pollution by trace organic compounds (ng/L) has become one of the key environmental issues in developed countries. This is the case of the emerging contaminants called endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs). EDCs are a new class of environmental pollutants able to mimic or antagonize the effects of endogenous hormones, and are recently drawing scientific and public attention. Their widespread presence in the environment solicits the need of their removal from the contaminated sites. One promising approach to face this challenge consists in the use of enzymatic systems able to react with these molecules. Among the possible enzymes, oxidative enzymes are attracting increasing attention because of their versatility, the possibility to produce them on large scale, and to modify their properties. In this study five different EDCs were treated with four different fungal laccases, also in the presence of both synthetic and natural mediators. Mediators significantly increased the efficiency of the enzymatic treatment, promoting the degradation of substrates recalcitrant to laccase oxidation. The laccase showing the best performances was chosen to further investigate its oxidative capabilities against micropollutant mixtures. Improvement of enzyme performances in nonylphenol degradation rate was achieved through immobilization on glass beads.
The Government Subsidy Strategy Choice for Firm’s R&D: Input Subsidy or Product Subsidy?
Authors: Liu Zhiying , Li Qinqin
Published: April 2014

To encourage enterprises to conduct technology innovation, the government needs to formulate appropriate subsidies policy. This paper compares two R&D subsidy policies in a supplier-manufacturer supply chain, in which the manufacturer conducts R&D activity for quality improvement. By means of game theory, we investigate the optimal decisions of the players under the two R&D subsidy policies, that is, input subsidy policy and product subsidy policy. Finally, we compare the profits and welfare to explore the better R&D subsidy policy and provide decision support for government to formulate subsidy policy. The results show that under input subsidy policy the optimal production output, quality improvement, profits, government subsidies, and social welfare are all lower than those of product subsidy policy. Therefore, the government should use product subsidy strategy to encourage enterprise R&D activities.
Lysophosphatidic Acid Signaling in Late Cleavage and Blastocyst Stage Bovine Embryos
Authors: Torres Ana Catarina , Boruszewska Dorota , Batista Mariana , Kowalczyk-Zieba Ilona , Diniz Patricia , Sinderewicz Emilia , Saulnier-Blache Jean Sebastian , Woclawek-Potocka Izabela , Lopes-da-Costa Luis
Published: April 2014

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a known cell signaling lipid mediator in reproductive tissues. In the cow, LPA is involved in luteal and early pregnancy maintenance. Here, we evaluated the presence and role of LPA in bovine early embryonic development. In relevant aspects, bovine embryos reflect more closely the scenario occurring in human embryos than the mouse model. Transcription of mRNA and protein expression of enzymes involved in LPA synthesis (ATX andcPLA2) and of LPA receptors (LPAR1–4) were detected in Days 5 and 8in vitroproduced embryos. Embryonic LPA production into culture medium was also detected at both stages of development. Supplementation of culture medium with LPA (10−5 M) between Days 2 and 8 had no effect on embryo yield and quality and on blastocyst relative mRNA abundance of genes involved in prostaglandin synthesis (PTGS2,PGES, andPGFS) and steroidogenesis (3βHSD). However, LPA treatment affected transcription levels of embryo quality markers, decreasingBAX(apoptotic) and increasingBCL2(antiapoptotic) andIGF2R(growth marker) gene transcription levels. Blastocyst transcription ofOCT4(pluripotency marker) was not affected by LPA stimulation. In conclusion, LPA is an early bovine embryonic autocrine/paracrine signaling mediator, and LPA action may be relevant in early embryo-maternal interactions leading to embryonic survival.
A Network DEA Model with Super Efficiency and Undesirable Outputs: An Application to Bank Efficiency in China
Authors: Huang Jianhuan , Chen Juanjuan , Yin Zhujia
Published: April 2014

There are two typical subprocesses in bank production—deposit generation and loan generation. Aiming to open the black box of input‐output production of banks and provide comprehensive and accurate assessment on the efficiency of each stage, this paper proposes a two‐stage network model with bad outputs and supper efficiency (US‐NSBM). Empirical comparisons show that the US‐NSBM may be promising and practical for taking the nonperforming loans into account and being able to rank all samples. Applying it to measure the efficiency of Chinese commercial banks from 2008 to 2012, this paper explores the characteristics of overall and divisional efficiency, as well as the determinants of them. Some interesting results are discovered. The polarization of efficiency occurs in the bank level and deposit generation, yet does not in the loan generation. Five hypotheses work as expected in the bank level, but not all of them are supported in the stage level. Our results extend and complement some earlier empirical publications in the bank level.
On 3-Dimensional Contact Metric Generalized(k,μ)-Space Forms
Authors: Prakasha D. G. , Hui Shyamal Kumar , Mirji Kakasab
Published: April 2014

The present paper deals with a study of 3-dimensional contact metric generalized(k,μ)-space forms. We obtained necessary and sufficient condition for a 3-dimensional contact metric generalized(k,μ)-space form withQϕ=ϕQto be of constant curvature. We also obtained some conditions of such space forms to be pseudosymmetric andξ-projectively flat, respectively.
Compact Multiband Slot Antenna for WLAN/WiMAX Operations
Authors: Bao Jianhui , Huang Qiulin , Wang Xinhuai , Shi Xiaowei
Published: April 2014

A novel compact triple-band slot antenna is proposed for WLAN/WiMAX applications. With the use of three L-shaped slots and an open-ended slot on the ground plane, three resonant modes centered at 2.4/3.5/5.8 GHz are excited. These modes cover the standards of 3.5 GHz WiMAX and 2.4/5.8 GHz WLAN, three useful frequency bands for present wireless communication systems. The proposed antenna fed by L-shaped microstrip line has a small overall dimension of16×30 mm2. The numerical and experimental results show that acceptable radiation characteristic is obtained over the operating bands.
A Novel Biosorbent, Water-Hyacinth, Uptaking Methylene Blue from Aqueous Solution: Kinetics and Equilibrium Studies
Authors: Uddin Md. Nasir , Islam Md. Tariqul , Das Sreejon
Published: April 2014

The adsorption of MB dye from aqueous solution onto HCl acid treated water-hyacinth (H-WH) was investigated by carried out batch sorption experiments. The effect of process parameters such as pH, adsorbent dosage, concentrations and contact time, and ionic strength were studied. Adsorption of MB onto H-WH was found highly pH dependent and ionic strength shows negative impact on MB removal. To predict the biosorption isotherms and to determine the characteristic parameters for process design, Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Halsey isotherms models were utilized to equilibrium data. The adsorption kinetics was tested for pseudo-first-order (PFO), pseudo-second-order (PSO), intraparticle diffusion (IPD), and Bangham’s kinetic models. The Langmuir isotherm model showed the goodness-of-fit among the tested models for equilibrium adsorption of MB over H-WH and indicated the maximum adsorption capacity as 63.30 mg/g. Higher coefficient of determination (R2>0.99) and better agreement between the qe (experimental) andqe(calculated) values predicted that PSO kinetic model showed the goodness-of-fit for kinetic data along with rate constant1.66×10-3,4.42×10-3, and3.57×10-3 mg·g-1min⁡-1/2⁡, respectively, for the studied concentration range. At the initial stage of adsorption, the overall rate of dye uptake was found to be dominated by external mass transfer, and afterwards, it is controlled by IPD mechanism.
Accurate, Fast and Cost-Effective Diagnostic Test for Monosomy 1p36 Using Real-Time Quantitative PCR
Authors: Cunha Pricila da Silva , Pena Heloisa B. , D’Angelo Carla Sustek , Koiffmann Celia P. , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Shaffer Lisa G. , Stofanko Martin , Gonçalves-Dornelas Higgor , Pena Sérgio Danilo Junho
Published: April 2014

Monosomy 1p36 is considered the most common subtelomeric deletion syndrome in humans and it accounts for 0.5–0.7% of all the cases of idiopathic intellectual disability. The molecular diagnosis is often made by microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), which has the drawback of being a high-cost technique. However, patients with classic monosomy 1p36 share some typical clinical characteristics that, together with its common prevalence, justify the development of a less expensive, targeted diagnostic method. In this study, we developed a simple, rapid, and inexpensive real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay for targeted diagnosis of monosomy 1p36, easily accessible for low-budget laboratories in developing countries. For this, we have chosen two target genes which are deleted in the majority of patients with monosomy 1p36:PRKCZandSKI. In total, 39 patients previously diagnosed with monosomy 1p36 by aCGH, fluorescentin situhybridization (FISH), and/or multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) all tested positive on our qPCR assay. By simultaneously using these two genes we have been able to detect 1p36 deletions with 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. We conclude that qPCR ofPRKCZandSKIis a fast and accurate diagnostic test for monosomy 1p36, costing less than 10 US dollars in reagent costs.
New Travelling Wave Solutions for Sine-Gordon Equation
Authors: Sun Yunchuan
Published: April 2014

We propose a method to deal with the general sine-Gordon equation. Several new exact travelling wave solutions with the form ofJacobiAmplitudefunction are derived for the general sine-Gordon equation by using some reasonable transformation. Compared with previous solutions, our solutions are more general than some of the previous.
Complete Monotonicity of Functions Connected with the Exponential Function and Derivatives
Authors: Wei Chun-Fu , Guo Bai-Ni
Published: April 2014

Some complete monotonicity results that the functions±1/e±t-1are logarithmically completely monotonic, and that differences between consecutive derivatives of these two functions are completely monotonic, and that the ratios between consecutive derivatives of these two functions are decreasing on0, ∞are discovered. As applications of these newly discovered results, some complete monotonicity results concerning the polylogarithm are found. Finally a conjecture on the complete monotonicity of the above-mentioned ratios is posed.
A Collaborative Scheduling Model for the Supply-Hub with Multiple Suppliers and Multiple Manufacturers
Authors: Li Guo , Lv Fei , Guan Xu
Published: April 2014

This paper investigates a collaborative scheduling model in the assembly system, wherein multiple suppliers have to deliver their components to the multiple manufacturers under the operation of Supply-Hub. We first develop two different scenarios to examine the impact of Supply-Hub. One is that suppliers and manufacturers make their decisions separately, and the other is that the Supply-Hub makes joint decisions with collaborative scheduling. The results show that our scheduling model with the Supply-Hub is a NP-complete problem, therefore, we propose an auto-adapted differential evolution algorithm to solve this problem. Moreover, we illustrate that the performance of collaborative scheduling by the Supply-Hub is superior to separate decision made by each manufacturer and supplier. Furthermore, we also show that the algorithm proposed has good convergence and reliability, which can be applicable to more complicated supply chain environment.
Change in Growth Differentiation Factor 15, but Not C-Reactive Protein, Independently Predicts Major Cardiac Events in Patients with Non-ST Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Dominguez-Rodriguez Alberto , Abreu-Gonzalez Pedro , Hernandez-Baldomero Idaira F. , Avanzas Pablo , Bosa-Ojeda Francisco
Published: April 2014

Among the numerous emerging biomarkers, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and growth-differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) have received widespread interest, with their potential role as predictors of cardiovascular risk. The concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers, however, are influenced, among others, by physiological variations, which are the natural, within-individual variation occurring over time. The aims of our study are: (a) to describe the changes in hsCRP and GDF-15 levels over a period of time and after an episode of non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) and (b) to examine whether the rate of change in hsCRP and GDF-15 after the acute event is associated with long-term major cardiovascular adverse events (MACE). Two hundred and Fifty five NSTE-ACS patients were included in the study. We measured hsCRP and GDF-15 concentrations, at admission and again 36 months after admission (end of the follow-up period). The present study shows that the change of hsCRP levels, measured after 36 months, does not predict MACE in NSTEACS-patients. However, the level of GDF-15 measured, after 36 months, was a stronger predictor of MACE, in comparison to the acute unstable phase.
Occurrence of Psoriatic Arthritis during Interferon Beta 1a Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Toussirot Éric , Béreau Matthieu , Bossert Marie , Malkoun Imad , Lohse Anne
Published: April 2014

Interferon beta (IFN-β) is the first line therapy of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. IFN-βis a cytokine that can contribute to the development of systemic autoimmune disease including psoriasis. The development or the exacerbation of psoriasis during IFN-βtreatment has been previously observed. We report the occurrence of arthritis and dactylitis in a multiple sclerosis patient with preexisting psoriasis diagnosed as a psoriatic arthritis. The IL-23/Th17 pathway is involved in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and it has been suggested that IFN-βtherapy in patients with Th17-mediated disease may be detrimental. Together with previous similar reports, our case suggests that IFN-βshould certainly be used with caution in patients with concomitant systemic autoimmune disease with IL-23/Th17 involvement.
Open-Ring Enhancement in Pseudotumoral Multiple Sclerosis: Important Radiological Aspect
Authors: Medeiros Frederico Carvalho de , Albuquerque Lucas Alverne Freitas de , Pittella Jose Eymard Homem , Souza Renata Brant de , Gomes Neto Antonio Pereira , Christo Paulo Pereira
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Observation of open-ring enhancement in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered a specificity marker for diagnosing pseudotumoral multiple sclerosis (MS). This finding is of great value in the differential diagnosis of tumefactive lesions.Case Report. We describe a 55-year-old white woman, with previous history of ovarian cancer and recent history of fatigue and bilateral retroorbital pain. Important bilateral visual impairment evolved over one month. Physical examination detected the presence of right homonymous hemianopia. Cranial MRI showed an expanding lesion with open-ring enhancement. Given the range of diagnostic possibilities, a stereotactic biopsy was performed, and histopathological examination was consistent with an active demyelinating disease. The patient was treated with 1 g of methylprednisolone and symptoms improved following a significant reduction in the lesion.Conclusions. We highlight the MRI results suggestive of pseudotumoral MS, especially open-ring enhancement, which is an important radiologic aspect to diagnosis and can assist in avoiding unnecessary biopsies.
Mechanistic Elucidation of the Antitumor Properties of Withaferin A in Breast Cancer
Authors: Nagalingam Arumugam , Kuppusamy Panjamurthy , Singh Shivendra V. , Sharma Dipali , Saxena Neeraj K.
Published: April 2014

Withaferin A (WFA) is a steroidal lactone with antitumor effects manifested at multiple levels that are mechanistically obscure. Using a phospho-kinase screening array, we discovered that WFA activated phosphorylation of the S6 kinase RSK (ribosomal S6 kinase) in breast cancer cells. Pursuing this observation, we defined activation of extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK)–RSK and ETS-like transcription factor 1 (Elk1)–CHOP (C-EBP homologous protein) kinase pathways in upregulating transcription of the death receptor 5 (DR5). Through this route, WFA acted as an effective DR5 activator capable of potentiating the biologic effects of celecoxib, etoposide, and TRAIL. Accordingly, WFA treatment inhibited breast tumor formation in xenograft and mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV)-neu mouse models in a manner associated with activation of the ERK/RSK axis, DR5 upregulation, and elevated nuclear accumulation of Elk1 and CHOP. Together, our results offer mechanistic insight into how WFA inhibits breast tumor growth. Cancer Res; 74(9); 2617–29. ©2014 AACR.
Incorporation of Ortho- and Meta-Tyrosine Into Cellular Proteins Leads to Erythropoietin-Resistance in an Erythroid Cell Line
Authors: Mikolás Esztella , Kun Szilárd , Laczy Boglárka , Molnár Gergő A. , Sélley Eszter , Kőszegi Tamás , Wittmann István
Published: April 2014

Background/Aims: Erythropoietin-resistance is an unsolved concern in the treatment of renal anaemia. We aimed to investigate the possible role of ortho- and meta-tyrosine - the hydroxyl free radical products of L-phenylalanine - in the development of erythropoietin-resistance. Methods: TF-1 erythroblast cell line was used. Cell concentration was determined on day 1; 2 and 3 by two independent observers simultaneously in Bürker cell counting chambers. Protein concentration was determined with colorimetric method. Para-, ortho- and meta-tyrosine levels were measured using reverse phase-HPLC with fluorescence detection. Using Western blot method activating phosphorylation of STAT5 and ERK1/2 were investigated. Results: We found a time- and concentration-dependent decrease of erythropoietin-induced proliferative activity in case of ortho- and meta-tyrosine treated TF-1 erythroblasts, compared to the para-tyrosine cultured cells. Decreased erythropoietin-response could be regained with a competitive dose of para-tyrosine. Proteins of erythroblasts treated by ortho- or meta-tyrosine had lower para-tyrosine and higher ortho- or meta-tyrosine content. Activating phosphorylation of ERK and STAT5 due to erythropoietin was practically prevented by ortho- or meta-tyrosine treatment. Conclusion: According to this study elevated ortho- and meta-tyrosine content of erythroblasts may lead to the dysfunction of intracellular signaling, resulting in erythropoietin-hyporesponsiveness.
Characterization of the Inflammatory Infiltrate in Streptococcus pneumoniae Pneumonia in Young and Elderly Patients
Authors: Menter Thomas , Giefing-Kroell Carmen , Grubeck-Loebenstein Beatrix , Tzankov Alexandar
Published: April 2014

There is an increased susceptibility and mortality in the elderly due to pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. We aimed to assess the inflammatory cell composition with respect to age in pneumococcal pneumonia patients. Neutrophilic granulocytes and various lymphocyte and macrophage subpopulations were immunohistochemically quantified on lung tissue specimens of young (n = 5; mean age 8.4 years), middle-aged (n = 8; mean age 55.9 years) and elderly (n = 9; mean age 86.6 years) pneumonia patients with microbiologically proven S. pneumoniae pneumonia. We discovered a higher percentage of neutrophilic granulocytes in elderly as opposed to young patients (95 vs. 75%, p = 0.012). Conversely, young patients versus elderly patients had more alveolar macrophages (CD11c+: 20 vs. 9%, p = 0.029) and M1 macrophages (CD14+: 30 vs. 10%, p = 0.012 and HLA-DR+: 52 vs. 11%, p = 0.019). There was no significant difference concerning M2 macrophages and lymphocytes. Comparison of young patients with middle-aged patients showed similar significant results for alveolar macrophages (p = 0.019) and subsignificant results for M1 macrophages and neutrophilic granulocytes (p < 0.08). This is the first study characterizing the inflammatory infiltrate of pneumococcal pneumonia in situ. Our observations improve the understanding of the innate immune mechanisms of pneumococcal lung infection and point at the potential of therapies for restoring macrophage function and decreasing neutrophilic influx in order to help prevent or cure pneumonia.