bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large-Eddy Simulation of Film Cooling in an Adverse Pressure Gradient Flow
Authors: Konopka Martin , Jessen Wilhelm , Meinke Matthias , Schröder Wolfgang
Published: March 2013

In order to analyze the interaction of multiple rows of film cooling holes in flows at adverse pressure gradients, large-eddy simulations (LESs) are performed. The considered three-row cooling configuration consists of inclined cooling holes at an angle of 30 deg with a lateral pitch of p/D=3 and a streamwise spacing of l/D=6. The cooling holes possess a fan-shaped exit geometry with lateral and streamwise expansions. For each cooling row the complete internal flow is computed. Air and CO2 are injected in order to investigate the influence of an increased density ratio on the film cooling physics at adverse pressure gradients. The CO2 injected at the same blowing rate as air shows a higher magnitude of the Reynolds shear stress component and, thus, an enhanced mixing downstream of the cooling holes. The LES results of the air and CO2 configurations are compared to the corresponding particle-image velocimetry (PIV) measurements and show a convincing agreement in terms of the averaged streamwise velocity and streamwise velocity fluctuations. Furthermore, the cooling effectiveness is investigated for a zero and an adverse pressure gradient configuration with a temperature ratio at gas turbine conditions. For the adverse pressure gradient case, reduced temperature levels off the wall are observed. However, the cooling effectiveness shows only minor differences compared to the zero pressure gradient flow. The turbulent Schmidt number at CO2 injection shows large variations. Just downstream of the injection it attains low values, whereas high values are detected in the upper mixing zone of the cooling flow and the freestream at each film cooling row.
Wear of Carbon Nanofiber Reinforced HDPE Nanocomposites Under Dry Sliding Condition
Authors: Xu Songbo , Akchurin Aydar , Liu Tian , Wood Weston , Tangpong X. W. , Akhatov Iskander S. , Zhong Wei-Hong
Published: March 2013

High density polyethylene (HDPE) is widely used as a bearing material in industrial application because of its low friction and high wear resistance properties. Carbon nanofiber (CNF) reinforced HDPE nanocomposites are promising materials for biomedical applications as well, such as being the bearing materials in total joint replacements. The main objective of the present study is to investigate how the wear of HDPE can be altered by the addition of either pristine or silane treated CNFs at different loading levels (0.5 wt. % and 3 wt. %). Two types of silane coating thicknesses, 2.8 nm and 46 nm, were applied on the surfaces of oxidized CNFs to improve the interfacial bonding strength between the CNFs and the matrix. The CNF/HDPE nanocomposites were prepared through melt mixing and hot-pressing. The coefficients of friction (COFs) and wear rates of the neat HDPE and CNF/HDPE nanocomposites were determined using a pin-on-disc tribometer under dry sliding conditions. The microstructures of the worn surfaces of the nanocomposites were characterized using both scanning electron microscope (SEM) and optical microscope to analyze their wear mechanisms. Compared with the neat HDPE, the COF of the nanocomposites were reduced. The nanocomposite reinforced with CNFs coated with the thicker silane coating (46 nm) at 0.5 wt. % loading level was found to yield the highest wear resistance with a wear rate reduction of nearly 68% compared to the neat HDPE.
Modeling and Prediction of Gearbox Faults With Data-Mining Algorithms
Authors: Verma Anoop , Zhang Zijun , Kusiak Andrew
Published: March 2013

A data-driven approach for analyzing faults in wind turbine gearbox is developed and tested. More specifically, faults in a ring gear are predicted in advance. Time-domain statistical metrics, such as jerk, root mean square (RMS), crest factor (CF), and kurtosis, are investigated to identify faulty components of a wind turbine. The components identified are validated with the fast Fourier transformation (FFT) of vibration data. Fifty neural networks (NNs) with different parameter settings are trained to obtain the best performing model. Models based on original vibration data, and transformed jerk data are constructed. The jerk model based on multisensor data outperforms the other models and therefore is used for testing and validation of previously unseen data. Short-term predictions of up to 15 time intervals, each representing 0.1 s, are performed. The prediction accuracy varies from 91.68% to 94.78%.
Inkjet Printing of Radio Frequency Electronics: Design Methodologies and Application of Novel Nanotechnologies
Authors: Le Taoran , Lin Ziyin , Vyas Rushi , Lakafosis Vasileios , Yang Li , Traille Anya , Tentzeris Manos M. , Wong Ching-ping
Published: March 2013

We discuss here the use of inkjet printing technology as an attractive alternative for the fabrication of radio frequency (RF) electronics. Inkjet printing is compared to widely-used traditional methods such as wet etching and mechanical milling with discussion of the advantages and potential disadvantages afforded by the technology. Next the paper presents the current state of the art for RF printed electronics, including fundamental fabrication technologies, methodologies, and materials. Included are detailed discussions of the fabrication of foundational conductive elements, integration of external elements via low temperature bonding techniques, and enhancement strategies focusing on the addition of novel materials. We then present some current challenges related to inkjet printing, along with some exciting recent advances in materials technology seeking to overcome the current limitations and to expand the frontier of the technology. Following are multiple examples detailing the successful use of inkjet printing methods in the creation of novel RF devices, providing proof of concept and illustrating in greater detail the concepts presented in the theoretical sections.
Doubly-Clamped Single Walled Boron Nitride Nanotube Based Nanomechanical Resonators: A Computational Investigation of Their Behavior
Authors: Panchal Mitesh B. , Upadhyay S. H.
Published: March 2013

This paper illustrates the dynamic behavior of a doubly-clamped single walled boron nitride nanotube (SWBNNT) as a mass sensor. To this end, a 3-dimensional atomistic model based on molecular structural mechanics is developed such that the proximity of the model to the actual atomic structure of the nanotube is significantly retained. Different types of zigzag and armchair layouts of SWBNNTs are considered with doubly-clamped end constraints. Implementing the finite element simulation approach, the resonant frequency shift based analysis is performed for doubly-clamped end-constraints, for an additional nanoscale mass at the middle of the length, and at the intermediate landing position along the length of the nanotube. The effect of the intermediate landing position of added mass on the resonant frequency shift is analyzed by considering excitations of the fundamental modes of vibration. The finite element method (FEM) based simulation results are validated using the continuum mechanics based analytical results, considering the effective wall thickness of the SWBNNT. The present approach is found to be effectual in terms of dealing with different chiralities, boundary conditions, and the consideration of the added mass to analyze the dynamic behavior of the doubly-clamped SWBNNT based nanomechanical resonators.
PUMA and BIM Are Required for Oncogene Inactivation–Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Bean Gregory R. , Ganesan Yogesh Tengarai , Dong Yiyu , Takeda Shugaku , Liu Han , Chan Po M. , Huang Yafen , Chodosh Lewis A. , Zambetti Gerard P. , Hsieh James J.-D. , Cheng Emily H.-Y.
Published: March 2013

Combining drugs that inhibit antiapoptotic proteins with oncogenic kinase inhibitors may overcome drug resistance in cancer therapy.
Kinase-Substrate Enrichment Analysis Provides Insights into the Heterogeneity of Signaling Pathway Activation in Leukemia Cells
Authors: Casado Pedro , Rodriguez-Prados Juan-Carlos , Cosulich Sabina C. , Guichard Sylvie , Vanhaesebroeck Bart , Joel Simon , Cutillas Pedro R.
Published: March 2013

Computational analysis of phosphoproteomics data predicts the sensitivity of leukemia cells to kinase inhibitors.
BIM, PUMA, and the Achilles’ Heel of Oncogene Addiction
Authors: Roulston Anne , Muller William J. , Shore Gordon C.
Published: March 2013

Drugs that target oncogenic receptor tyrosine kinases activate parallel signaling pathways that trigger cell death.
A Wnt-er Migration: The Confusing Role of β-Catenin in Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Webster Marie R. , Weeraratna Ashani T.
Published: March 2013

The repertoire of Wnt receptors and co-receptors in melanoma cells may determine whether β-catenin promotes metastasis.
Dissecting TLR8 Interactions
Authors: Mueller Kristen L.
Published: March 2013

The crystal structure of unbound and ligand-bound Toll-like receptor 8 reveals ligand-induced conformational changes.
Protection from Toxic Shock
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: March 2013

A glycosphingolipid functions as an endogenous inhibitor of the TLR4-MD2 complex, which mediates the immune response to bacterially derived lipids.
Prospective Phase II Single-Center Study of the Safety of a Single Very High Dose of Liposomal Amphotericin B for Antifungal Prophylaxis in Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Annino Luciana , Chierichini Anna , Anaclerico Barbara , Finolezzi Erica , Norata Marianna , Cortese Stefania , Cassetta Maria Iris , Fallani Stefania , Novelli Andrea , Girmenia Corrado
Published: March 2013

Some preclinical and pharmacokinetic studies suggested the variable safety and the potential efficacy of an antifungal prophylaxis with a single high dose of liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) in high-risk patients. An open-label, prospective study was conducted with 48 adults receiving induction chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Patients received a single infusion of 15 mg/kg of body weight L-AmB and, eventually, a second dose after 15 days of persistent neutropenia. The primary objective was tolerability and safety. Efficacy was also evaluated as a secondary endpoint. A pharmacokinetic study was performed with 34 patients in order to evaluate any association of plasma L-AmB levels with toxicity and efficacy. Overall, only 6 patients (12.5%) reported Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC) grade 3 hypokalemia, which was corrected with potassium supplementation in all cases, and no patient developed clinically relevant nephrotoxicity. Mild infusion-related adverse events occurred after 6 of 53 (11.3%) total infusions, with permanent drug discontinuation in only one case. Proven invasive fungal disease (IFD) was diagnosed in 4 (8.3%) patients. The mean AmB plasma levels at 6 h, 24 h, and 7 days after L-AmB administration were 160, 49.5, and 1 mg/liter, respectively. The plasma AmB levels were higher than the mean values of the overall population in 3 patients who developed CTC grade 3 hypokalemia and did not significantly differ from the mean values of the overall population in 3 patients who developed IFD. Our experience demonstrates the feasibility and safety of a single 15-mg/kg L-AmB dose as antifungal prophylaxis in AML patients undergoing induction chemotherapy.
Establishment of anIn Vitrod-Cycloserine-Synthesizing System by UsingO-Ureido-l-Serine Synthase andd-Cycloserine Synthetase Found in the Biosynthetic Pathway
Authors: Uda Narutoshi , Matoba Yasuyuki , Kumagai Takanori , Oda Kosuke , Noda Masafumi , Sugiyama Masanori
Published: March 2013

We have recently cloned a DNA fragment containing a gene cluster that is responsible for the biosynthesis of an antituberculosis antibiotic,d-cycloserine. The gene cluster is composed of 10 open reading frames, designateddcsAtodcsJ. Judging from the sequence similarity between each putative gene product and known proteins, DcsC, which displays high homology to diaminopimelate epimerase, may catalyze the racemization ofO-ureidoserine. DcsD is similar toO-acetylserine sulfhydrylase, which generatesl-cysteine usingO-acetyl-l-serine with sulfide, and therefore, DcsD may be a synthase to generateO-ureido-l-serine usingO-acetyl-l-serine and hydroxyurea. DcsG, which exhibits similarity to a family of enzymes with an ATP-grasp fold, may be an ATP-dependent synthetase convertingO-ureido-d-serine intod-cycloserine. In the present study, to characterize the enzymatic functions of DcsC, DcsD, and DcsG, each protein was overexpressed inEscherichia coliand purified to near homogeneity. The biochemical function of each of the reactions catalyzed by these three proteins was verified by thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and, in some cases, mass spectrometry. The results from this study demonstrate that by using a mixture of the three purified enzymes and the two commercially available substratesO-acetyl-l-serine and hydroxyurea, synthesis ofd-cycloserine was successfully attained. Thesein vitrostudies yield the conclusion that DcsD and DcsG are necessary for the syntheses ofO-ureido-l-serine andd-cycloserine, respectively. DcsD was also able to catalyze the synthesis ofl-cysteine when sulfide was added instead of hydroxyurea. Furthermore, the present study shows that DcsG can also form other cyclicd-amino acid analogs, such asd-homocysteine thiolactone.
Characterization of
qnrB
-Like Genes in Citrobacter Species of the American Type Culture Collection
Authors: Saga Tomoo , Sabtcheva Stefana , Mitsutake Kotaro , Ishii Yoshikazu , Tateda Kazuhiro , Yamaguchi Keizo , Kaku Mitsuo
Published: March 2013

Among five American Type Culture Collection (ATCC)
Citrobacter
strains,
qnrB60
in
Citrobacter freundii
ATCC 6879, an isolate from the preantibiotic era, and
qnrB61
in
Citrobacter braakii
ATCC 51113
T
, a type strain belonging to the
C. freundii
complex, were identified. Meanwhile, a truncated
qnrB
-like pseudogene was identified in
C. freundii
ATCC 8090
T
and ATCC 43864. No
qnrB
-like sequence was found in
Citrobacter koseri
ATCC 27028
T
. These findings underscore the close relationship between this species and
qnrB
.
In VitroActivity of Biapenem plus RPX7009, a Carbapenem Combined with a Serine β-Lactamase Inhibitor, against Anaerobic Bacteria
Authors: Goldstein Ellie J. C. , Citron Diane M. , Tyrrell Kerin L. , Merriam C. Vreni
Published: March 2013

Biapenem is a carbapenem being developed in combination with RPX7009, a new inhibitor of serine β-lactamases. Biapenem was tested alone and in combination with fixed concentrations of RPX7009 by agar dilution against 377 recent isolates of anaerobes. A separate panel of 27 isolates ofBacteroidesspp. with decreased susceptibility or resistance to imipenem was also tested. Comparator drugs included meropenem, piperacillin-tazobactam, ampicillin-sulbactam, cefoxitin, ceftazidime, metronidazole, clindamycin, and tigecycline plus imipenem, doripenem, and ertapenem for the 27 selected strains. For recent consecutive strains ofBacteroidesspecies, the MIC90for biapenem-RPX7009 was 1 μg/ml, with a MIC90of 4 μg/ml for meropenem. OtherBacteroides fragilisgroup species showed a MIC90of 0.5 μg/ml for both agents. The MIC90s for biapenem-RPX7009 were 0.25 μg/ml forPrevotellaspp., 0.125 μg/ml forFusobacterium nucleatumandFusobacterium necrophorum, 2 μg/ml forFusobacterium mortiferum, 0.5 μg/ml forFusobacterium varium, ≤0.5 μg/ml for Gram-positive cocci and rods, and 0.03 to 8 μg/ml for clostridia. Against 5B. fragilisstrains harboring a known metallo-beta-lactamase, biapenem-RPX7009 MICs were comparable to those of other carbapenems (≥32 μg/ml). AgainstBacteroidesstrains with an imipenem MIC of 2 μg/ml, biapenem-RPX7009 had MICs of 0.5 to 2 μg/ml, with MICs of 0.5 to 32 μg/ml for meropenem, doripenem, and ertapenem. For strains with an imipenem MIC of 4 μg/ml, the MICs for biapenem-RPX7009 were 4 to 16 μg/ml, with MICs of 8 to >32 μg/ml for meropenem, doripenem, and ertapenem. The inhibitor RPX7009 had no antimicrobial activity when tested alone, and it showed little or no potentiation of biapenem versus anaerobes. Biapenem-RPX7009 showed activity comparable to that of imipenem and was superior to meropenem, doripenem, and ertapenem against imipenem-nonsusceptibleBacteroidesspp.
Species-Specific and Drug-Specific Differences in Susceptibility of Candida Biofilms to Echinocandins: Characterization of Less Common Bloodstream Isolates
Authors: Simitsopoulou Maria , Peshkova Pavla , Tasina Efthymia , Katragkou Aspasia , Kyrpitzi Daniela , Velegraki Aristea , Walsh Thomas J. , Roilides Emmanuel
Published: March 2013

Candida
species other than
Candida albicans
are increasingly recognized as causes of biofilm-associated infections. This is a comprehensive study that compared the
in vitro
activities of all three echinocandins against biofilms formed by different common and infrequently identified
Candida
isolates. We determined the activities of anidulafungin (ANID), caspofungin (CAS), and micafungin (MFG) against planktonic cells and biofilms of bloodstream isolates of
C. albicans
(15 strains),
Candida parapsilosis
(6 strains),
Candida lusitaniae
(16 strains),
Candida guilliermondii
(5 strains), and
Candida krusei
(12 strains) by XTT [2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide] assay. Planktonic and biofilm MICs were defined as ≥50% fungal damage. Planktonic cells of all
Candida
species were susceptible to the three echinocandins, with MICs of ≤1 mg/liter. By comparison, differences in the MIC profiles of biofilms in response to echinocandins existed among the
Candida
species. Thus,
C. lusitaniae
and
C. guilliermondii
biofilms were highly recalcitrant to all echinocandins, with MICs of ≥32 mg/liter. In contrast, the MICs of all three echinocandins for
C. albicans
and
C. krusei
biofilms were relatively low (MICs ≤ 1 mg/liter). While echinocandins exhibited generally high MICs against
C. parapsilosis
biofilms, MFG exhibited the lowest MICs against these isolates (4 mg/liter). A paradoxical growth effect was observed with CAS concentrations ranging from 8 to 64 mg/liter against
C. albicans
and
C. parapsilosis
biofilms but not against
C. krusei
,
C. lusitaniae
, or
C. guilliermondii
. While non-
albicans Candida
planktonic cells were susceptible to all echinocandins, there were drug- and species-specific differences in susceptibility among biofilms of the various
Candida
species, with
C. lusitaniae
and
C. guilliermondii
exhibiting profiles of high MICs of the three echinocandins.
Impact of Primary Elvitegravir Resistance-Associated Mutations in HIV-1 Integrase on Drug Susceptibility and Viral Replication Fitness
Authors: Abram Michael E. , Hluhanich Rebecca M. , Goodman Derrick D. , Andreatta Kristen N. , Margot Nicolas A. , Ye Linda , Niedziela-Majka Anita , Barnes Tiffany L. , Novikov Nikolai , Chen Xiaowu , Svarovskaia Evguenia S. , McColl Damian J. , White Kirsten L. , Miller Michael D.
Published: March 2013

Elvitegravir (EVG) is an effective HIV-1 integrase (IN) strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) in advanced clinical development. Primary INSTI resistance-associated mutations (RAMs) at six IN positions have been identified in HIV-1-infected patients failing EVG-containing regimens in clinical studies: T66I/A/K, E92Q/G, T97A, S147G, Q148R/H/K, and N155H. In this study, the effect of these primary IN mutations, alone and in combination, on susceptibility to the INSTIs EVG, raltegravir (RAL), and dolutegravir (DTG); IN enzyme activities; and viral replication fitness was characterized. Recombinant viruses containing the six most common mutations exhibited a range of reduced EVG susceptibility: 92-fold for Q148R, 30-fold for N155H, 26-fold for E92Q, 10-fold for T66I, 4-fold for S147G, and 2-fold for T97A. Less commonly observed primary IN mutations also showed a range of reduced EVG susceptibilities: 40- to 94-fold for T66K and Q148K and 5- to 10-fold for T66A, E92G, and Q148H. Some primary IN mutations exhibited broad cross-resistance between EVG and RAL (T66K, E92Q, Q148R/H/K, and N155H), while others retained susceptibility to RAL (T66I/A, E92G, T97A, and S147G). Dual combinations of primary IN mutations further reduced INSTI susceptibility, replication capacity, and viral fitness relative to either mutation alone. Susceptibility to DTG was retained by single primary IN mutations but reduced by dual mutation combinations with Q148R. Primary EVG RAMs also diminished IN enzymatic activities, concordant with their structural proximity to the active site. Greater reductions in viral fitness of dual mutation combinations may explain why some primary INSTI RAMs do not readily coexist on the same HIV-1 genome but rather establish independent pathways of resistance to EVG.
Phenothiazines Inhibit Hepatitis C Virus Entry, Likely by Increasing the Fluidity of Cholesterol-Rich Membranes
Authors: Chamoun-Emanuelli Ana M. , Pecheur Eve-Isabelle , Simeon Rudo L. , Huang Da , Cremer Paul S. , Chen Zhilei
Published: March 2013

Despite recent progress in the development of direct-acting antiviral agents against hepatitis C virus (HCV), more effective therapies are still urgently needed. We and others previously identified three phenothiazine compounds as potent HCV entry inhibitors. In this study, we show that phenothiazines inhibit HCV entry at the step of virus-host cell fusion, by intercalating into cholesterol-rich domains of the target membrane and increasing membrane fluidity. Perturbation of the alignment/packing of cholesterol in lipid membranes likely increases the energy barrier needed for virus-host fusion. A screening assay based on the ability of molecules to selectively increase the fluidity of cholesterol-rich membranes was subsequently developed. One compound that emerged from the library screen, topotecan, is able to very potently inhibit the fusion of liposomes with cell culture-derived HCV (HCVcc). These results yield new insights into HCV infection and provide a platform for the identification of new HCV inhibitors.
Enhanced, Sialoadhesin-Dependent Uptake of Guillain-Barré Syndrome-Associated Campylobacter jejuni Strains by Human Macrophages
Authors: Heikema Astrid P. , Koning Roman I. , Duarte dos Santos Rico Sharon , Rempel Hans , Jacobs Bart C. , Endtz Hubert P. , van Wamel Willem J. B. , Samsom Janneke N.
Published: March 2013

Molecular mimicry between
Campylobacter jejuni
sialylated lipooligosaccharides (LOS) and human nerve gangliosides can trigger the production of cross-reactive antibodies which induce Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). To better understand the immune events leading to GBS, it is essential to know how sialylated LOS are recognized by the immune system. Here, we show that GBS-associated
C. jejuni
strains bind to human sialoadhesin (hSn), a conserved, mainly macrophage-restricted I-type lectin. Using hSn-transduced THP-1 cells, we observed that
C. jejuni
strains with α(2,3)-sialylated LOS, including strains expressing GM1a- and GD1a-like epitopes, bind to hSn. This observation is of importance, as these epitopes are frequently the targets of the cross-reactive antibodies detected in GBS patients. Interestingly, the Sn binding domains were not constitutively exposed on the surface of
C. jejuni
. Heat inactivation and the environmental conditions which food-borne
C. jejuni
encounters during its passage through the intestinal tract, such as low pH and contact with bile constituents, exposed LOS and facilitated Sn binding. Sn binding enhanced bacterial uptake and increased the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6) by primary human Sn-expressing monocyte-derived macrophages compared to control conditions, where Sn was blocked using neutralizing antibodies or when nonsialylated
C. jejuni
was used. Sn-mediated uptake has been reported to enhance humoral immune responses. As
C. jejuni
strains expressing ganglioside mimics GD1a and GM1a are closely associated with GBS, Sn binding may be a determining event in the production of cross-reactive antibodies and the development of GBS.
Treatment of mobile right heart thrombi with low-molecular-weight heparin
Authors: Lampropoulos Konstantinos M , Bonou Maria , Theocharis Constantinos , Barbetseas John
Published: March 2013

Treatment of choice in patients with mobile thrombi in the right heart chambers is still controversial owing to the increased risk of recurrent pulmonary embolism (PE). Thrombolysis and surgical or catheter embolectomy are the preferred options. We present a case of an elderly patient with PE and free-floating atrial thrombi who was treated successfully with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH).
Intraoral teratoma in a newborn presenting as severe respiratory distress
Authors: Kundal Vijay Kumar , Gajdhar Mufique , Sharma Chetan , Kundal Raksha
Published: March 2013

A new born female presented to us immediately after birth with mass protruding from the mouth, with severe respiratory distress and was immediately intubated. Antenatal ultrasonography did not reveal any abnormality. On examination, a non-pulsatile, multilobulated, 4 cm×5 cm sized mass of variable consistency was seen originating from the palate with no other associated congenital anomaly. CT showed a large heterogeneous mass arising from the hard palate with few hyperdense calcific areas with no intracranial extension. Mass was excised completely. Histopathological examination showed features of mature teratoma.
Adaptations in physiological properties of rat motor units following 5 weeks of whole-body vibration
Authors: Łochyński Dawid , Bączyk Marcin , Kaczmarek Dominik , Rędowicz Maria Jolanta , Celichowski Jan , Krutki Piotr
Published: March 2013

The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of 5-week whole-body vibration (WBV) on contractile parameters and force–frequency relationship of functionally isolated motor units of the rat medial gastrocnemius muscle: fast fatigable (FF), fast fatigue-resistant (FR), and slow (S). Moreover, myosin heavy chain isoform content was quantified. Following WBV, the maximum tetanic force of FF units was increased by ∼25%. The twitch half-relaxation time in all types of motor units and the twitch contraction time in FR units were shortened. The twitch-to-tetanus force ratio was decreased and the force–frequency curves were shifted rightwards in S and FR units. Myosin heavy chain distribution was not changed. These findings suggest modifications of the excitation–contraction coupling towards shortening of a twitch contraction. The observed increase in force of FF units may contribute to gains in muscle dynamic strength reported following WBV treatment.
Cultural importance of white pine (Pinus strobusL.) to the Kitcisakik Algonquin community of western Quebec, Canada
Authors: Uprety Yadav , Asselin Hugo , Bergeron Yves
Published: March 2013

Trees and forests have always played a significant role in the cultural and spiritual lives of societies. Understanding the cultural importance of tree species is necessary to develop socially acceptable forest management and restoration strategies. White pine (Pinus strobus L.) used to be abundant in northeastern North America, including on the ancestral territory of the Kitcisakik Algonquin community (western Quebec, Canada). The community is calling for restoration and sustainable management of white pine on their ancestral territory. As a first step towards this goal, key informant interviews were used to document the cultural importance of white pine to the Kitcisakik community. White pine was perceived as an important component of traditional life, providing several goods and services. White pine is featured in legends, is used as a medicine, provides habitat for flagship wildlife species, and is a prominent part of cultural landscapes. White pine is a cultural keystone species for the Kitcisakik Algonquin community. Local people point to extensive logging as the reason behind white pine decline on the ancestral territory. They suggest that mixed plantations should be used in a culturally adapted restoration strategy.
EFFICIENT AUTOMATIC SELECTION AND COMBINATION OF EEG FEATURES IN LEAST SQUARES CLASSIFIERS FOR MOTOR IMAGERY BRAIN–COMPUTER INTERFACES
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ-BERMÚDEZ GERMAN , GARCÍA-LAENCINA PEDRO J. , ROCA-DORDA JOAQUÍN
Published: March 2013

Discriminative features have to be properly extracted and selected from the electroencephalographic (EEG) signals of each specific subject in order to achieve an adaptive brain–computer interface (BCI) system. This work presents an efficient wrapper-based methodology for feature selection and least squares discrimination of high-dimensional EEG data with low computational complexity. Features are computed in different time segments using three widely used methods for motor imagery tasks and, then, they are concatenated or averaged in order to take into account the time course variability of the EEG signals. Once EEG features have been extracted, proposed framework comprises two stages. The first stage entails feature ranking and, in this work, two different procedures have been considered, the least angle regression (LARS) and the Wilcoxon rank sum test, to compare the performance of each one. The second stage selects the most relevant features using an efficient leave-one-out (LOO) estimation based on the Allen's PRESS statistic. Experimental comparisons with the state-of-the-art BCI methods shows that this approach gives better results than current state-of-the-art approaches in terms of recognition rates and computational requirements and, also with respect to the first ranking stage, it is confirmed that the LARS algorithm provides better results than the Wilcoxon rank sum test for these experiments.
CONTROLLING TUNNELING MODES BY A PHOTONIC QUANTUM WELL STRUCTURE BASED ON ZERO EFFECTIVE PHASE GAP
Authors: BO TAO , FENG YU , LI FU-LI
Published: March 2013

Light propagation through one-dimensional photonic quantum well (PQW) structures consisting of single-negative (SNG) materials is investigated theoretically. It is found that, based on the zero-effective-phase gap mechanism, the resonant tunneling modes can be manipulated to realized multiple channeled filters which are not only weakly dependent on the incident angle and polarization, but also insensitive to the deviation of the photonic barrier thickness. These properties are advanced to conventional PQW structures and the physical reason for the remarkable features of the proposed PQW structure is analyzed.
MORPHOLOGY AND RADIATIVE PROPERTIES OF SOL–GEL NANOCOMPOSITE COATINGS IN ELECTRONICS COOLING APPLICATIONS
Authors: CHELASHAW ALLAN KIPRUTO , WANG HUAPING , WANG CHAOSHENG , LI LIFENG
Published: March 2013

Coatings composed of mixed nanoparticles in Silica and Titania sol matrices were prepared by sol–gel spray coating method. The coatings were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FT-IR spectroscopy and Infrared thermal imaging. The thermal Infrared Emissivity of the coatings was determined using IR-1 spectrometer. The coating solutions were applied onto sand blasted aluminum substrates. Results indicated that mixed nanoparticles can be well dispersed in sol to give coatings with good heat emission properties. High emissivity of 0.915–0.941 was achieved, and the coatings showed cooling efficiency of 7.3–14%. The coatings can be prepared in an easy and controlled way using sol–gel method and are a potential in radiative cooling applications.
SHORT EXTENDERS FORCINGS I
Authors: GITIK MOTI
Published: March 2013

The purpose of the present paper is to present new methods of blowing up the power of a singular cardinal κ of cofinality ω. New PCF configurations are obtained. The techniques developed here will be used in a subsequent paper to construct a model with a countable set which pcf has cardinality ℵ1.
CHEAP TALK ABOUT THE DETECTION PROBABILITY
Authors: BAUMANN FLORIAN , FRIEHE TIM
Published: March 2013

This paper analyzes whether the behavior of potential offenders can be guided by information on the actual detection probability transmitted by the policy maker. It is established that, when viewed as a cheap-talk game, the existence of equilibria with information transmission depends on the level of the sanction, the level of costs related to imposing the sanction, and the level of social harm resulting from the offense. In addition, we find that the policy maker (i. e., society as a whole) is not necessarily better off ex ante when more information is transmitted in equilibrium, but that potential offenders always are.
EXISTENCE AND UNIQUENESS OF EQUILIBRIUM IN ASYMMETRIC CONTESTS WITH ENDOGENOUS PRIZES
Authors: HIRAI SHUMEI , SZIDAROVSZKY FERENC
Published: March 2013

This paper considers contests in which the efforts of the players determine the value of the prize. Players may have different valuations of the prize and different abilities to convert expenditures to productive efforts. In addition, players may face different financial constraints. This paper presents a proof for the existence and uniqueness of a pure Nash equilibrium in asymmetric contests with endogenous prizes.
LANCZOS–LOVELOCK–CARTAN GRAVITY FROM CLIFFORD-SPACE GEOMETRY
Authors: CASTRO CARLOS
Published: March 2013

A rigorous construction of Clifford-space (C-space) gravity is presented which is compatible with the Clifford algebraic structure and permits the derivation of the expressions for the connections with torsion in C-spaces. The C-space generalized gravitational field equations are derived from a variational principle based on the extension of the Einstein–Hilbert–Cartan action. We continue by arguing how Lanczos–Lovelock–Cartan (LLC) higher curvature gravity with torsion can be embedded into gravity in C-spaces and suggest how this might also occur for extended gravitational theories based on f(R), f(Rμν), … actions, for polynomial-valued functions. In essence, the LLC curvature tensors appear as Ricci-like traces of certain components of the C-space curvatures. Torsional gravity is related to higher-order corrections of the bosonic string-effective action. In the torsionless case, black-strings and black-brane metric solutions in higher dimensions D > 4 play an important role in finding specific examples of solutions to LL gravity.
IMPROVING LAGRANGIAN ENERGY EQUATIONS ON KÄHLER JET BUNDLES
Authors: AYCAN CANSEL , CIVELEK SEVKET , DAGLI SIMGE
Published: March 2013

This study proposes to improve the Lagrangian energy equations for instructed complex jet bundles on Kähler manifolds. The coordinates on the bundle structure of Kähler manifolds have been given for real and imaginary dimensions. For given bundle structures, all fundamental geometrical properties have been investigated and applications to complex bundle structures are carried out. The energy equations have been applied to the numerical example in order to test its performance. Moreover, velocity and time dimensions for energy movement equations have been presented as a new concept. This study shows some physical applications of those equations and interpretations are made. Results show that the imaginary coordinates are same as real coordinates. One of the interesting conclusion of this study is that the Lagrangian energy of a movement particle is static when the particle moves in a large velocity.
IMPROVED WEIGHT FUZZY TIME SERIES AS USED IN THE EXCHANGE RATES FORECASTING OF US DOLLAR TO RINGGIT MALAYSIA
Authors: EFENDI RISWAN , ISMAIL ZUHAIMY , DERIS MUSTAFA MAT
Published: March 2013

Foreign exchange rate (forex) forecasting has been the subject of several rigorous investigations due to its importance in evaluating the benefits and risks of the international business environments. Many methods have been researched with the ultimate goal being to increase the reliability and efficiency of the forecasting method. However as the data are inherently dynamic and complex, the development of accurate forecasting method remains a challenging task if not a formidable one. This paper proposes a new weight of the fuzzy time series model for a daily forecast of the exchange rate market. Through this method, the weights are assigned to the fuzzy relationships based on a probability approach. This can be implemented to carry out the frequently recurring fuzzy logical relationship (FLR) in the fuzzy logical group (FLG). The US dollar to the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) exchange rates are used as an example and the efficiency of the proposed method is compared with the methods proposed by Yu and Cheng et al. The result shows that the proposed method has enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of the daily exchange rate forecasting opportunities.
Electroacupuncture-Induced Attenuation of Experimental Epilepsy: A Comparative Evaluation of Acupoints and Stimulation Parameters
Authors: Kang Xuezhi , Shen Xueyong , Xia Ying
Published: March 2013

The efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) on epilepsy remains to be verified because of previous controversies that might be due to the complexity of the effects induced by different acupoints and stimulation approaches adopted. Therefore, we investigated the effects of EA on epilepsy to determine the specific acupoints and optimal stimulation parameters in this work. Experimental epilepsy was induced by injecting kainic acid to the lateral cerebral ventricle of adult male SD rats. EA with a low-frequency (10 Hz/1 mA) or high-frequency (100 Hz/1 mA) current was applied to the epileptic model for 30 minutes starting at 0.5 hour after the injection. Four pairs of acupoints were tested, that is, Shuigou (DU26) + Dazhui (DU14), Jinsuo (DU8) + Yaoqi (EXB9), Neiguan (PC6) + Quchi (LI11), and Fenglong (ST40) + Yongquan (KI1). We found that (1) low- or high-frequency EA at different acupoints reduced epileptic seizures (P<0.05versus the control) with an exception of low-frequency EA at Neiguan (PC6) and Quchi (LI11); (2) low-frequency EA induced a better effect at Fenglong (ST40) plus Yongquan (KI1) than that of the other acupoints (P<0.05); (3) there is no significant difference in the effects of high-frequency EA at these acupoints; and (4) the high-frequency EA elicited a greater effect than that of low-frequency EA in all groups (P<0.05), with an exception at Jinsuo (DU8) + Yaoqi (EXB9). The EA-induced attenuation appeared 1–1.5 hours after EA with no appreciable effect in the first hour after EA in either the EEG or the behavioral tests. We conclude that EA attenuation of epileptic seizures is dependent on the stimulation parameters and acupoints and that the delay in appearance of the EA effect could be a reflection of the time required by the EA signal to regulate neural function in the central nervous system.
Dispersing of Petroleum Asphaltenes by Acidic Ionic Liquid and Determination by UV-Visible Spectroscopy
Authors: Rezaee Nezhad Eshagh , Heidarizadeh Fariba , Sajjadifar Sami , Abbasi Zahra
Published: March 2013

Nowadays, constructing a mechanism to prevent the aggregation petroleum asphaltenes by the use of new acidic ionic liquids has become of fundamental importance. In this research, 3-(2-carboxybenzoyl)-1-methyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium chloride ([CbMIM] [Cl]) and other ionic liquids such as [CbMIM]BF4, [HMIM]Cl, [BMIM]Br, and [HMIM]HSO4 were tested. It should be noted that during the experiment the presence of the acidic ionic liquid moiety enhanced interactions between asphaltenes and acidic ionic liquids and it greatly limited asphaltene aggregation. We considered parameters such as temperature, amount of dispersant, effect of water: toluene ratio, the stirring time and effects of other ionic liquids, and determination of concentration of petroleum asphaltenes after dispersing by acidic ionic liquid under various parameters using UV-Visible spectroscopy.
On Strong Convergence for Weighted Sums of a Class of Random Variables
Authors: Shen Aiting
Published: March 2013

Let{Xn,n≥1}be a sequence of random variables satisfying the Rosenthal-type maximal inequality. Complete convergence is studied for linear statistics that are weighted sums of identically distributed random variables under a suitable moment condition. As an application, the Marcinkiewicz-Zygmund-type strong law of large numbers is obtained. Our result generalizes the corresponding one of Zhou et al. (2011) and improves the corresponding one of Wang et al. (2011, 2012).
Proteomic Profiling ofEx VivoExpanded CD34-Positive Haematopoetic Cells Derived from Umbilical Cord Blood
Authors: Falkenberg Heiner , Radke Teja Falk , Kögler Gesine , Stühler Kai
Published: March 2013

Ex vivoexpansion of haematopoetic cells by application of specific cytokines is one approach to overcome boundaries in cord blood transplantation due to limited numbers of haematopoetic stem cells. While many protocols describe an effective increase of total cell numbers and the amount of CD34-positive cells, it still remains unclear if and how the procedure actually affects the cells’ properties. In the presented publications, CD34-positive cells were isolated from cord blood and expanded for up to 7 days in media supplemented with stem cell factor (SCF), thrombopoietin (THPO), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and fms-related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (FLT3lg). At days 3 and 7, expanded cells were harvested and analyzed by flow cytometry and quantitative proteomics. 2970 proteins were identified, whereof proteomic analysis showed 440 proteins significantly changed in abundance duringex vivoexpansion. Despite the fact that haematopoetic cells still expressed CD34 on the surface after 3 days, major changes in regard to the protein profile were observed, while further expansion showed less effect on the proteome level. Enrichment analysis of biological processes clearly showed a proteomic change toward a protein biosynthesis phenotype already within the first three days of expression.
Professionals’ Experiences of the Relations between Personal History and Professional Role
Authors: Sjølie Hege , Karlsson Bengt , Binder Per-Einar
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this paper is to explore whether and how workers in a crisis resolution home treatment (CRHT) team experience the relationship between their personal history and professional role. This paper is based on 13 in-depth interviews with health professionals working in CRHT. The interviews were analysed using a hermeneutic-phenomenological approach. Participants expressed that there is a relationship between their personal history and professional role, and three themes are highlighted as particularly important in, namely experiences related to the participants as individuals, work-related experiences and family-related experiences. The participants write meaning into the relationship between their personal history and professional role. By relating and exploring their own life stories in the interviews, they work on forming meaning and identity.
Delay-Dependent Synchronization for Complex Dynamical Networks with Interval Time-Varying and Switched Coupling Delays
Authors: Botmart T. , Niamsup P.
Published: March 2013

We investigate the local exponential synchronization for complex dynamical networks with interval time-varying delays in the dynamical nodes and the switched coupling term simultaneously. The constraint on the derivative of the time-varying delay is not required which allows the time delay to be a fast time-varying function. By using common unitary matrix for different subnetworks, the problem of synchronization is transformed into the stability analysis of some linear switched delay systems. Then, when subnetworks are synchronizable and nonsynchronizable, a delay-dependent sufficient condition is derived and formulated in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) by average dwell time approach and piecewise Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals which are constructed based on the descriptor model of the system and the method of decomposition. The new stability condition is less conservative and is more general than some existing results. A numerical example is also given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Algebraic Reconstruction of Current Dipoles and Quadrupoles in Three-Dimensional Space
Authors: Nara Takaaki
Published: March 2013

This paper presents an algebraic method for an inverse source problem for the Poisson equation where the source consists of dipoles and quadrupoles. This source model is significant in the magnetoencephalography inverse problem. The proposed method identifies the source parameters directly and algebraically using data without requiring an initial parameter estimate or iterative computation of the forward solution. The obtained parameters could be used for the initial solution in an optimization-based algorithm for further refinement.
Unilateral Subconjunctival and Retrobulbar Hemorrhage Secondary to Brodifacoum Toxicity in a Dog
Authors: Kuhn Sonia E. , Hendrix Diane V. H.
Published: March 2013

An 8-year-old spayed female mixed-breed dog was presented for an acute onset of bleeding around the left eye. Mild exophthalmos and massive subconjunctival hemorrhage on the globe and nictitating membrane were present in the left eye. Retrobulbar hemorrhage was suspected, and pain was implied on opening of the mouth because the patient resisted and vocalized. No other abnormalities were found on ophthalmic or physical examination. Further questioning of the owner confirmed potential brodifacoum ingestion, and prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time were both markedly elevated. Treatment with oral vitamin K1was implemented, and the subconjunctival hemorrhage was significantly improved within a few days of instituting treatment. All clinical signs of coagulopathy were completely resolved within 4 weeks of presentation. Coagulopathy secondary to brodifacoum ingestion can manifest as severe unilateral bulbar and nictitating membrane subconjunctival hemorrhage and exophthalmos due to retrobulbar hemorrhage without other clinical signs.
Fabrication of Heparinized Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Multifunctional Drug Carriers
Authors: Zhang Yongxiang , Liu Xinmin , Lu Yizhong , Wang Jincai , Dong Tingfang , Liu Xiaohong
Published: March 2013

In this study, heparinized multifunctional mesoporous silica nanoparticles were successfully synthesized and characterized. The new material not only maintains intrinsic functions of bare magnetic and fluorescent mesoporous silica materials such as targeting, imaging, and sustained release of drugs, but also generates several novel activities such as the enhancement of biocompatibility, selective loading drugs, and dual loading of anticancer drug and bFGF, rendering it a promising candidate to be used as a multifunctional carrier. The strategy of combination of multifunctional mesoporous silica materials with bioactive molecules could be a new effective approach to improve their capabilities in the drug delivery.
The Cog-4 Subset of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale as a Measure of Cognition: Relationship with Baseline Factors and Functional Outcome after Stroke Using Data from the Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive
Authors: Ankolekar Sandeep , Renton Cheryl , Sprigg Nikola , Bath Philip M. W.
Published: March 2013

Background. Assessing poststroke cognitive impairment is complex. A subscale of the NIHSS, the Cog-4, has been proposed as a quick test of “cognitive impairment.” but a study of its properties in a larger dataset is lacking.Methods. Data from 9,147 patients with acute stroke from the VISTA archive was used to generate Cog-4 scores. The statistical properties of Cog-4, its relationship with baseline clinical characteristics, and other functional outcome measures at day 90 were assessed.Results. Mean age of patients was 69.2 years and 45.8%, were females. Day-90 Cog-4 was highly positively skewed (skewness 0.926). Patients with left hemispheric stroke had higher day-90 Cog-4 score (P<0.001). Age, stroke severity, and previous stroke were significant predictors of Cog-4. Cog-4 was significantly correlated with dependency (modified Rankin Scale,rs=0.512), and disability (Barthel Index,rs=−0.493).Conclusions. The Cog-4 scale at day 90 cannot be considered a useful test of cognition since it only superficially measures cognition. It is heavily dependent on the side of stroke, is inevitably associated with functional outcome (being a subset of the NIHSS), and suffers from a profound “floor” effect. Specific and validated measures are more appropriate for the assessment of poststroke cognition than Cog-4.