bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical Manufacturing Model of Printing Technology
Authors: Kim Nam-Soo , Luna Sarah , Lee Jung-Hyou , Jeong Tae-Eui
Published: October 2012

There has been an evident increase in the demand for accurate and complex patterns for particles used in microsized electronic devices. Direct printing technology has been promoted as a solution for these needs, as the development of this technology provides both economical and environmental benefits, as well as being a time and energy saving process. Research in the field of printing technologies is still in the initial stages, involving the study of physical and chemical properties of printing materials. There are several methods currently using direct printing methods: microdispensing deposition write (MDDW), maskless mesoscale materials deposition (M3D), and inkjet printing. This study explores the direct printing methods of sequential and randomized printing associated with MDDW, M3D, and inkjet printing using computer simulations compared with actual experimentations. Sequential printing involves depositing particles onto the substrate in a specific order based on particle size. This method is associated with MDDW, where a relatively high viscous ink is dispensed onto the substrate so that particle sizes maintain an order in relation to one another, effectively producing a higher packing factor. Randomized printing involves the dispensing of various sizes of particles onto the substrate in a random order, as in inkjet printing. With this process, the probability of obtaining an efficient packing factor is unlikely and decreases even more with particle size. Therefore, the monolayer method, involving the deposition of individual particles, was developed to increase the packing factor when using the inkjet process. The results presented in this study proved that monolayering methods coincide with the projections predicted by the computer simulation. Sequential packing (MDDW) provides a shorter and higher range of packing factors than that of random packing sequences (ink jet); thus showing sequential packing to be the more efficient method. Sequential packing is closely related to the printing of high viscosity ink because of the higher packing factor that this method provides. An ink with increased viscosity allows for better conductivity which is essential in the development of improved nanoprinting technologies. This study provides evidence for the most efficient means of increasing the packing factor of particles; these methods offer the opportunity for technological advancement and commercialization of nanoprinting materials.
Interlaminar Stresses in Composite Laminates Subjected to Anticlastic Bending Deformation
Authors: Goodsell Johnathan , Pagano Nicholas J. , Kravchenko Oleksandr , Byron Pipes R.
Published: October 2012

Approximate elasticity solutions for prediction of the displacement, stress, and strain fields within the m-layer, symmetric and balanced angle-ply composite laminate of finite-width and subjected to uniform axial extension and uniform temperature change were developed earlier by the authors. In the present paper, the authors have extended these solutions to treat bending deformation. Bending and torsion moments are combined to yield a deformation state without twisting curvature and with transverse curvature due only to the laminate Poisson effect. This state of deformation is termed anticlastic bending. The approximate elasticity solution for this bending deformation is shown to recover laminated plate theory predictions at interior regions of the laminate and thereby illustrates the boundary layer character of this interlaminar phenomenon. The results exhibit the anticipated response in congruence with the solutions for uniform axial extension and uniform temperature change, where divergence of the interlaminar shearing stress is seen to occur at the intersection of the free edge and planes between lamina of +θ and –θ orientation. The analytical results show excellent agreement with the finite-element predictions for the same boundary-value problem and thereby provide an efficient and compact solution available for parametric studies of the influence of geometry and material properties. Finally, the solution was exercised to determine the dimensions of the boundary layer in bending for very large numbers of layers.
Some Intriguing Results Pertaining to Functionally Graded Columns
Authors: Elishakoff Isaac , Miglis Yohann
Published: October 2012

Some intriguing results are reported in conjunction with closed form solutions obtained for a clamped-free vibrating inhomogeneous column under an axial concentrated load using the semi-inverse method. Fourth order polynomial is postulated for both the vibration mode shape and buckling displacement. Solution is provided for the flexural rigidity and the natural frequency. It is shown that, for each level of axial loading, there may exist up to five flexural rigidities satisfying the governing differential equation and boundary conditions.
Stress Response and Child Health
Meeting Information
: The European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE) New Inroads to Child Health (NICHe) Conference on Stress Response and Child Health took place in Heraklion, Crete, Greece, 18 to 20 May 2012.
Authors: Charmandari Evangelia , Achermann John C. , Carel Jean-Claude , Soder Olle , Chrousos George P.
Published: October 2012

Endocrine and inflammatory responses to stress affect many aspects of development, physiology, and cognition.
Mastering Early Divisions
Authors: Hurtley Stella M.
Published: October 2012

The protein XErp1 regulates cell cycle progression in frog embryos by inhibiting the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome.
Systematic review and meta-analyses of risk factors for childhood overweight identifiable during infancy
Authors: Weng Stephen Franklin , Redsell Sarah A , Swift Judy A , Yang Min , Glazebrook Cristine P
Published: October 2012

Objective

To determine risk factors for childhood overweight that can be identified during the first year of life to facilitate early identification and targeted intervention.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Search strategy

Electronic database search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed and CAB Abstracts.

Eligibility criteria

Prospective observational studies following up children from birth for at least 2 years.

Results

Thirty prospective studies were identified. Significant and strong independent associations with childhood overweight were identified for maternal pre-pregnancy overweight, high infant birth weight and rapid weight gain during the first year of life. Meta-analysis comparing breastfed with non-breastfed infants found a 15% decrease (95% CI 0.74 to 0.99; I2=73.3%; n=10) in the odds of childhood overweight. For children of mothers smoking during pregnancy there was a 47% increase (95% CI 1.26 to 1.73; I2=47.5%; n=7) in the odds of childhood overweight. There was some evidence associating early introduction of solid foods and childhood overweight. There was conflicting evidence for duration of breastfeeding, socioeconomic status at birth, parity and maternal marital status at birth. No association with childhood overweight was found for maternal age or education at birth, maternal depression or infant ethnicity. There was inconclusive evidence for delivery type, gestational weight gain, maternal postpartum weight loss and ‘fussy’ infant temperament due to the limited number of studies.

Conclusions

Several risk factors for both overweight and obesity in childhood are identifiable during infancy. Future research needs to focus on whether it is clinically feasible for healthcare professionals to identify infants at greatest risk.
Severe diet-related iron deficiency anaemia in a 17-month-old child
Authors: Swadling Oliver , Mansy Salah
Published: October 2012

A 17-month-old girl presented with an upper respiratory tract infections, and was found to have a haemoglobin of 3.3 g/dl. Although noticeably pale, she was largely asymptomatic. Her iron deficiency anaemia was found to be the result of poor diet. With oral iron supplements and improved diet, her haemoglobin increased rapidly, and she is now doing very well.
Pneumatosis intestinalis in a patient with recurrentClostridium difficileinfection
Authors: Ha Duc , Tsai Chung-Jyi
Published: October 2012

A 65-year-old man with long-standing diarrhoea, recurrentClostridium difficileinfection (CDI) in the previous 5 months presented to the gastroenterology clinic with recurrent diarrhoea and abdominal cramping. Physical examination was negative for signs of acute abdomen. StoolC difficilePCR was positive. Abdominal imaging demonstrated an extensive pneumatosis intestinalis involving the small bowel and a dilated small bowel loop. He was treated conservatively with oral vancomycin for recurrent CDI with resolution of diarrhoea and abdominal cramping on 1-month follow-up visit.
Acute onset of focal seizures, psychiatric features and confusion: a case of autoimmune encephalitis?
Authors: Al-Diwani Adam , Butterworth Richard J , Nibber Anjan , Lang Bethan , Vincent Angela , Irani Sarosh R
Published: October 2012

An elderly woman presented with disorganised thinking, unusual behaviour and clustered episodes of speech arrest accompanied by right-sided face and arm twitching. The following investigations were normal: interictal electroencephalography, brain MRI, cerebrospinal fluid viral PCR and cell count and voltage-gated potassium channel-complex,N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor, gamma-aminobutyric acid (B) receptor, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor, glycine receptor, glutamic acid decarboxylase and paraneoplastic antibodies. The syndrome showed partial spontaneous resolution but 1 year later, typical postencephalopathic features persisted including disinhibition and alteration of sleep–wake cycle. The most likely clinical diagnosis was autoimmune encephalitis and the broader differential diagnoses are discussed within the article. This case demonstrates the need to be aware of this under-recognised and potentially treatable entity.
Low-voltage EEG activity presenting from psychotic stage in a patient with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis
Authors: Kataoka Hiroshi , Takatani Tsunenori , Ueno Satoshi
Published: October 2012

EEG in anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis shows generalised or predominantly frontotemporal δ–θ activity, and epileptiform potentials are less frequent than slowness. The voltage of EEG activity in this disorder is uncertain. We studied the voltage pattern of EEG of two patients. Both patients had psychiatric symptoms, central hypoventilation requiring prolonged ventilatory support, seizures, involuntary movements and autonomic instability. No patient showed abnormal findings on conventional MRI. Mature teratoma was diagnosed in one patient after ovarian tumour resection. Both patients received corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulins, and plasmapheresis. One patient recovered completely. In one patient, teratoma was not found, and ventilatory support or sedative drugs were given for about 35 months. The EEG voltages in both patients were decreased in all brain areas as compared with those of the healthy controls. Low-voltage EEG activity in all brain areas was evident from the psychotic stage.
Bilateral metastatic melanoma to the extraocular-muscles simulating thyroid eye disease
Authors: Almeida Ana Catarina , Fung Adrian , Guedes Marta Esteves , Costa João Marques
Published: October 2012

We report a case of bilateral metastatic melanoma to the extraocular muscles that simulated thyroid eye disease. A 71-year-old man presented with bilateral painless axial proptosis, lid retraction and left gaze restriction. Orbital CT scan demonstrated enlargement of the extraocular muscles with tendon sparing, consistent with thyroid eye disease. However, thyroid function tests and antithyroid antibodies were normal. Systemic review including orbital MRI scan determined the correct diagnosis of metastatic melanoma to the orbit. Metastatic melanoma to the orbit can simulate thyroid eye disease.
A rare grade III symptomatic Tsunoda class III left lobe hepatolithiasis in a North American woman
Authors: Abu-Wasel Bassam , Keough Valerie , Molinari Michele
Published: October 2012

A 44-year-old Caucasian woman without any identified predisposing factors, presented to her local emergency room with multiple episodes of recurrent ascending cholangitis. She underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy several years prior to her admission to the hospital for parenteral antibiotic therapy and she had no personal or family history of hypercholesterolaemia. Transferred to a tertiary hospital for surgical therapy, she underwent a left hepatic resection for a chronically infected left lobe hepatolithiasis (HL) conditioning atrophy of the parenchyma due to obstruction of the biliary tree by multiple large cholesterol stones. HL is a very rare condition in Western countries and its aetiology and predisposing factors are still unclear. We present her symptomatology, diagnostic and therapeutic management and discuss the epidemiology and risk factors of HL, that is, a common condition in South East Asia while exceptional in Caucasian patients who have not travelled in high-prevalence regions.
Post-LASIK edema-induced keratopathy (PLEK), a new name based on pathophysiology of the condition
Authors: Galvis Virgilio , Tello Alejandro , Revelo Mario Leandro , Valarezo Paul
Published: October 2012

A 33-year-old man who underwent uneventful laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) developed pressure-induced stromal edema resulting in an interface haze in both eyes and a pocket of fluid under the flap of the right eye 10 days after surgery, while receiving topical fluorometholone. Intraocular pressure by applanation tonometry was 16 mm Hg in his right eye (erroneous result due to the fluid in the interface) and 34 mm Hg in his left eye. After discontinuation of steroids and addition of ocular hypotensive medication, interface fluid collection disappeared in his right eye. Visual acuity improved and haze diminished in both eyes. This case illustrates that in the same patient a post-LASIK edema induced syndrome may be present with or without fluid in the interface, suggesting that both clinical pictures could be manifestations of a broad spectrum of the same condition. We suggest a new name for this non-inflammatory disorder: post-LASIK edema-induced keratopathy (PLEK).
HIGGS-DILATON LAGRANGIAN FROM SPECTRAL REGULARIZATION
Authors: KURKOV M. A. , LIZZI FEDELE
Published: October 2012

In this paper we calculate the full Higgs-dilaton action describing the Weyl anomaly using the bosonic spectral action. This completes the work we started in our previous paper (JHEP1110, 001 (2011)). We also clarify some issues related to the dilaton and its role as collective modes of fermions under bosonization.
THE INTERPLAY OF UNCORRELATED NOISE AND SMALL WORLD EFFECT ON PATTERN FORMATION IN TWO-DIMENSIONAL COUPLED MAP LATTICES
Authors: WANG DAOGUANG , KANG XIAOSHA , LÜ HUAPING
Published: October 2012

By using a neuron-like map model to denote the generic dynamics of excitable systems, Gaussian-noise-induced pattern formation in the two-dimensional coupled map lattices with nearest-neighbor coupling and shortcut links has been studied. Given the appropriate initial values and parameter regions, with all nodes concerned, the functions of δ(n), χ and ℜ are introduced to analyze the evolution of pattern formation. It is found that there exists a critical εc beyond which the stable rotating spiral wave will appear. After introducing the Gaussian noise for the homogeneous ε region, different spatiotemporal stable patterns will be achieved. Additionally, the importance of the parameter I on the coupling strength C is discussed.
EMERGENCE OF OSCILLATORY TURING PATTERNS INDUCED BY CROSS DIFFUSION IN A PREDATOR–PREY SYSTEM
Authors: LI AN-WEI , JIN ZHEN , LI LI , WANG JIAN-ZHONG
Published: October 2012

In this paper, we presented a predator–prey model with self diffusion as well as cross diffusion. By using theory on linear stability, we obtain the conditions on Turing instability. The results of numerical simulations reveal that oscillating Turing patterns with hexagons arise in the system. And the values of the parameters we choose for simulations are outside of the Turing domain of the no cross diffusion system. Moreover, we show that cross diffusion has an effect on the persistence of the population, i.e., it causes the population to run a risk of extinction. Particularly, our results show that, without interaction with either a Hopf or a wave instability, the Turing instability together with cross diffusion in a predator–prey model can give rise to spatiotemporally oscillating solutions, which well enrich the finding of pattern formation in ecology.
HOW TO SENSITIZE THE FINANCIAL INDUSTRY TO RESOURCE EFFICIENCY CONSIDERATIONS AND CLIMATE CHANGE RELATED RISKS
Authors: ONISCHKA MATHIAS , LIEDTKE CHRISTA , JORDAN NINO DAVID
Published: October 2012

Increasing resource efficiency can potentially deliver important economic and environmental benefits. Many of these benefits are regularly foregone because the financial sector's capacity to adequately take the opportunities and risks arising from resource utilization and related climate change aspects into account has so far remained relatively undeveloped. Focusing on the case of Germany, a number of barriers to the inclusion of resource efficiency and climate change aspects into financial services' considerations are presented. Corresponding measures for improving the capacity of the financial sector to better integrate resource efficiency considerations and climate change related risks into its operating procedures are introduced. The measures encompass the areas of risk controlling, company reporting, institutional reporting requirements, as well as additional supporting measures.
CYCLIC CODES THROUGH $B[X;\frac{a}{b}{\mathbb Z}_{0}]$, WITH $\frac{a}{b}\in {\mathbb Q}^{+}$ AND b = a+1, AND ENCODING
Authors: SHAH TARIQ , DE ANDRADE ANTONIO APARECIDO
Published: October 2012

Let B[X; S] be a monoid ring with any fixed finite unitary commutative ring B and [Formula: see text] is the monoid S such that b = a + 1, where a is any positive integer. In this paper we constructed cyclic codes, BCH codes, alternant codes, Goppa codes, Srivastava codes through monoid ring [Formula: see text]. For a = 1, almost all the results contained in [16] stands as a very particular case of this study.
A Birandom Job Search Problem with Risk Tolerance
Authors: Wang Guoli , Tang Wansheng , Zhao Ruiqing
Published: October 2012

This paper considers a novel class of birandom job search problem, in which the job offers are sampled by the job searcher from a finite job set with equivalent probability and their wages are characterized as independent but maybe not identically nonnegative random variables. The job searcher knows the job offer′s wage distribution when he samples the job offer. Since the offered wage is a random variable and the reservation wage is a deterministic number, it is meaningless to make comparison directly. In order to rank the random wage and the reservation wage and provide decision support, a risk tolerance criterion is designed, and the job searcher then accepts or rejects the sampled job offer depending on whether the risk tolerance criterion is met or not. Since the offered wages are random variables and the search process is random, it′s impossible to obtain the job searcher′s real return; in this case, its expected value can be calculated via birandom theory. Simultaneously, some propositions on the expected return as well as the average search times are also studied which may provide some valuable suggestions to the job searcher. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the decision process of the risk tolerance‐based birandom job search problem.
Design and Synthesis of Functional Silsesquioxane-Based Hybrids by Hydrolytic Condensation of Bulky Triethoxysilanes
Authors: Mori Hideharu
Published: October 2012

This paper presents a short overview of recent advances in the design and synthesis of organic-inorganic hybrids using silsesquioxane-based nanoparticles having nanometer size, relatively narrow size distribution, high functionalities, and various characteristic features, mainly focusing on our recent researches related to the subject. A highlight of this paper is the water-soluble silsesquioxane-based nanoparticles, including hydroxyl-functionalized and cationic silsesquioxanes, which were synthesized via the one-step condensation of the bulky triethoxysilane precursors. The design and synthesis of R-SiO1.5/SiO2and R-SiO1.5/TiO2hybrids by hydrolytic cocondensation of a triethoxysilane precursor and metal alkoxides are briefly introduced. This paper also deals with recent results in stimuli-responsive hybrids based on the water-soluble silsesquioxane nanoparticles and fluorinated and amphiphilic silsesquioxane hybrids.
Controller Design Considerations for ACM APFC Systems
Authors: Abramovitz Alexander
Published: October 2012

This paper is concerned with performance of the current shaping network in Average Current Mode (ACM) Active Power Factor Correction (APFC) systems. Theoretical expressions for the ripple components are derived. Then, ripple interaction and impact on the current loop reference signal are investigated. A modification of the controller network is suggested that results in an improved Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). Design guidelines are suggested. The theoretical predictions were validated by simulation.
Bleaching Gels Containing Calcium and Fluoride: Effect on Enamel Erosion Susceptibility
Authors: Borges Alessandra B. , Torres Carlos R. G. , de Souza Paulo A. B. , Caneppele Taciana M. F. , Santos Luciana F. T. F. , Magalhães Ana Carolina
Published: October 2012

Thisin vitrostudy evaluated the effect of 35% hydrogen peroxide (HP) bleaching gel modified or not by the addition of calcium and fluoride on enamel susceptibility to erosion. Bovine enamel samples (3 mm in diameter) were divided into four groups (n=15) according to the bleaching agent: control—without bleaching (C); 35% hydrogen peroxide (HP); 35% HP with the addition of 2% calcium gluconate (HP + Ca); 35% HP with the addition of 0.6% sodium fluoride (HP + F). The bleaching gels were applied on the enamel surface for 40 min, and the specimens were subjected to erosive challenge with Sprite Zero and remineralization with artificial saliva for 5 days. Enamel wear was assessed using profilometry. The data were analyzed by ANOVA/ Tukey’s test (P<0.05). There were significant differences among the groups (P=0.009). The most enamel wear was seen for C (3.37±0.80 μm), followed by HP (2.89±0.98 μm) and HP + F (2.72±0.64 μm). HP + Ca (2.31±0.92 μm) was the only group able to significantly reduce enamel erosion compared to C. The application of HP bleaching agent did not increase the enamel susceptibility to erosion. However, the addition of calcium gluconate to the HP gel resulted in reduced susceptibility of the enamel to erosion.
A Review of Acupoint Specificity Research in China: Status Quo and Prospects
Authors: Zhao Ling , Chen Ji , Liu Cun-Zhi , Li Ying , Cai Ding-Jun , Tang Yong , Yang Jie , Liang Fan-Rong
Published: October 2012

The theory of acupoint specificity is the basis for elucidating the actions of acupoints as employed in clinical practice. Acupoint specificity has become a focus of attention in international research efforts by scholars in the areas of acupuncture and moxibustion. In 2006, the Chinese Ministry of Science approved and initiated the National Basic Research Program (973 Program), one area of which was entitled Basic Research on Acupoint Specificity Based on Clinical Efficacy. Using such approaches as data mining, evidence-based medicine, clinical epidemiology, neuroimaging, molecular biology, neurophysiology, and metabolomics, fruitful research has been conducted in the form of literature research, clinical assessments, and biological studies. Acupoint specificity has been proved to exist, and it features meridian-propagated, relative, persistent, and conditional effects. Preliminarily investigations have been made into the biological basis for acupoint specificity.
Ureteral Stricture after Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation due to Suturing of the Serosa
Authors: Özgür Berat Cem , Hasçiçek Ahmet Metin , Karakan Tolga , Yücetürk Cem Nedim , Ersoy Erim
Published: October 2012

Strictures secondary to traumas of the ureter are some of the complications of urogynecologic surgery. We present a 43-year-old female who had a history of laparoscopic tubal ligation a year ago and was admitted to our department with recurrent flank and inguinal pain. It was soon understood that a suture has pulled the ureter from the lateral serosa of the upper part to the lateral serosa of the lower part causing dilatation of the proximal and midureter because of the previous surgery while there was no damage on the ureteral lumen. Consequently successful reconstruction was performed with open ureteroureterostomy.
Gastrointestinal Microbiota and Some Children Diseases: A Review
Authors: Weber Thabata Koester , Polanco Isabel
Published: October 2012

The bacterial colonization is defined immediately after birth, through direct contact with maternal microbiota and may be influenced during lactation. There is emerging evidence indicating that quantitative and qualitative changes on gut microbiota contribute to alterations in the mucosal activation of immune system leading to intra- or extra-intestinal diseases. A balance between pathogenic and beneficial microbiota throughout childhood and adolescence is important to gastrointestinal health, including protection against pathogens, inhibition of pathogens, nutrient processing (synthesis of vitamin K), stimulation of angiogenesis, and regulation of host fat storage. Probiotics can promote an intentional modulation of intestinal microbiota favoring the health of the host. This paper is a review about modulation of intestinal microbiota on prevention and adjuvant treatment of pediatric gastrointestinal diseases.
Confirmation of Thermal Images and Vibration Signals for Intelligent Machine Fault Diagnostics
Authors: Widodo Achmad , Satrijo Djoeli , Prahasto Toni , Lim Gang-Min , Choi Byeong-Keun
Published: October 2012

This paper deals with the maintenance technique for industrial machinery using the artificial neural network so-called self-organizing map (SOM). The aim of this work is to develop intelligent maintenance system for machinery based on an alternative way, namely, thermal images instead of vibration signals. SOM is selected due to its simplicity and is categorized as an unsupervised algorithm. Following the SOM training, machine fault diagnostics is performed by using the pattern recognition technique of machine conditions. The data used in this work are thermal images and vibration signals, which were acquired from machine fault simulator (MFS). It is a reliable tool and is able to simulate several conditions of faulty machine such as unbalance, misalignment, looseness, and rolling element bearing faults (outer race, inner race, ball, and cage defects). Data acquisition were conducted simultaneously by infrared thermography camera and vibration sensors installed in the MFS. The experimental data are presented as thermal image and vibration signal in the time domain. Feature extraction was carried out to obtain salient features sensitive to machine conditions from thermal images and vibration signals. These features are then used to train the SOM for intelligent machine diagnostics process. The results show that SOM can perform intelligent fault diagnostics with plausible accuracies.
Review on Mathematical and Mechanical Models of the Vocal Cord
Authors: Cveticanin L.
Published: October 2012

A review on mathematical and mechanical models of the vocal cords is given. The basic model is a two‐mass nonlinear oscillator system which is accepted to be the basic one for mechanical description in voice production. The model is not only extended into three, five, and more mass systems, systems with time variable parameters and three‐dimensional systems, but also simplified into one‐mass system with coupled two‐direction deflection and damping functions. The corresponding mathematical models are the systems of coupled second‐order differential equations which describe the vibrations of the symmetric and asymmetric vocal folds. The models give the conditions for the regular and irregular motions like bifurcation and deterministic chaos in vocal folds. The obtained results are of special interest for detecting the pathology of vocal cords, when there are no visual effects of disease. Based on the results given in the paper, the objectives for future investigation in this matter are given.
Prediction of Inelastic Response Spectra Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Bojórquez Edén , Bojórquez Juan , Ruiz Sonia E. , Reyes-Salazar Alfredo
Published: October 2012

Several studies have been oriented to develop methodologies for estimating inelastic response of structures; however, the estimation of inelastic seismic response spectra requires complex analyses, in such a way that traditional methods can hardly get an acceptable error. In this paper, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model is presented as an alternative to estimate inelastic response spectra for earthquake ground motion records. The moment magnitude (MW), fault mechanism (FM), Joyner‐Boore distance (dJB), shear‐wave velocity (Vs30), fundamental period of the structure (T1), and the maximum ductility (μu) were selected as inputs of the ANN model. Fifty earthquake ground motions taken from the NGA database and recorded at sites with different types of soils are used during the training phase of the Feedforward Multilayer Perceptron model. The Backpropagation algorithm was selected to train the network. The ANN results present an acceptable concordance with the real seismic response spectra preserving the spectral shape between the actual and the estimated spectra.
A Spiking Neural Network Based Cortex-Like Mechanism and Application to Facial Expression Recognition
Authors: Fu Si-Yao , Yang Guo-Sheng , Kuai Xin-Kai
Published: October 2012

In this paper, we present a quantitative, highly structured cortex-simulated model, which can be simply described as feedforward, hierarchical simulation of ventral stream of visual cortex using biologically plausible, computationally convenient spiking neural network system. The motivation comes directly from recent pioneering works on detailed functional decomposition analysis of the feedforward pathway of the ventral stream of visual cortex and developments on artificial spiking neural networks (SNNs). By combining the logical structure of the cortical hierarchy and computing power of the spiking neuron model, a practical framework has been presented. As a proof of principle, we demonstrate our system on several facial expression recognition tasks. The proposed cortical-like feedforward hierarchy framework has the merit of capability of dealing with complicated pattern recognition problems, suggesting that, by combining the cognitive models with modern neurocomputational approaches, the neurosystematic approach to the study of cortex-like mechanism has the potential to extend our knowledge of brain mechanisms underlying the cognitive analysis and to advance theoretical models of how we recognize face or, more specifically, perceive other people’s facial expression in a rich, dynamic, and complex environment, providing a new starting point for improved models of visual cortex-like mechanism.
Automatic Distributing Schemes of Physical Cell Identity for Self-Organizing Networks
Authors: Wei Yao , Peng Mugen , Wang Wenbo , Min Shijun , Jiang Jia Mo , Huang Yu
Published: October 2012

This paper presents and puts forward an optimal automatic distributing of physical cell identity (ADPCI) scheme for the self-organizing network (SON). Considering the high number and the layered structure of the evolved node B (eNodeB, eNB) in the initial rollout phase, the assigning of PCI for cells would be quite complex. The PCI self-distributing problem is mapped to the well-known minimum spanning tree (MST) problem in order to optimize the PCI reuse distance and decrease the multiplexing interference. The correlation property of PCI is analyzed and taken into consideration in the assigning phase. Moreover, a suboptimal algorithm (SADPCI) is presented as it performs approximately to ADPCI but the computational complexity is lower. To demonstrate the proposal validity, performances of ADPCI and SADPCI are evaluated. Simulation results illustrate that these schemes can achieve significantly higher performance even under the condition of severe PCI deficiency.
Neutral Sterols of Cephalic Glands of Stingless Bees and Their Correlation with Sterols from Pollen
Authors: Ferreira-Caliman Maria Juliana , Silva Cláudia Inês da , Mateus Sidnei , Zucchi Ronaldo , Nascimento Fabio Santos do
Published: October 2012

Sterols are essential molecules in the membrane lipid composition and precursors of important sterol hormones that regulate many developmental processes. Insects are unable to synthesize sterolsde novoand, thus, all phytophagous insects depend on an exogenous source of sterols for growth, development, and reproduction. The sterol requirements of social bees are not fully known due to the fact that there is no well-defined diet available throughout the year with regard to floral resources. Our study aimed to characterize the sterols present in pollen stored inMelipona marginataandMelipona scutellariscolonies, as well as evaluating their presence in the mandibular, hypopharyngeal, and cephalic salivary gland secretions. We analyzed the chemical composition of pollen stored in the colonies and the composition of the cephalic glands of workers in three adult functional phases (newly emerged, nurses, and foragers) by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. The results showed that the pollen analyzed contained campesterol, stigmasterol, sitosterol, isofucosterol, lanosterol, and small amounts of cholesterol. The glands showed the same compounds found in the pollen analyzed, except lanosterol that was not found inM. scutellarisglands. Surprisingly, cholesterol was found in some glands with relative ratios greater than those found in pollen.
Sorption of Uranium(VI) and Thorium(IV) by Jordanian Bentonite
Authors: Khalili Fawwaz I. , Salameh Najla′a H. , Shaybe Mona M.
Published: October 2012

Purification of raw bentonite was done to remove quartz. This includes mixing the raw bentonite with water and then centrifuge it at 750 rpm; this process is repeated until white purified bentonite is obtained. XRD, XRF, FTIR, and SEM techniques will be used for the characterization of purified bentonite. The sorption behavior of purified Jordanian bentonite towards
and Th4+ metal ions in aqueous solutions was studied by batch experiment as a function of pH, contact time, temperature, and column techniques at 25.0∘C and pH = 3. The highest rate of metal ions uptake was observed after 18 h of shaking, and the uptake has increased with increasing pH and reached a maximum at pH = 3. Bentonite has shown high metal ion uptake capacity toward uranium(VI) than thorium(IV). Sorption data were evaluated according to the pseudo‐ second‐order reaction kinetic. Sorption isotherms were studied at temperatures 25.0∘C, 35.0∘C, and 45.0∘C. The Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin‐Radushkevich (D‐R) sorption models equations were applied and the proper constants were derived. It was found that the sorption process is enthalpy driven for uranium(VI) and thorium(IV). Recovery of uranium(VI) and thorium(IV) ions after sorption was carried out by treatment of the loaded bentonite with different concentrations of HNO3 1.0 M, 0.5 M, 0.1 M, and 0.01 M. The best percent recovery for uranium(VI) and thorium(IV) was obtained when 1.0 M HNO3 was used.
High‐Speed Reduction of Triarylpyrylium Salts Using Zn(BH4)2/SiO2 as an Efficient and Regiospecific Reducing Reagent
Authors: Mouradzadegun Arash , Kiasat Ali Reza , Elahi Somayeh
Published: October 2012

The regiospecific reduction of some triarylpyrylium salts in the presence of modified hydride donors was investigated. Among these reagents, Zn(BH4)2/SiO2 performed the best results. The major advantages of this reagent are the cheapness, availability, simplicity in operation, very short reaction time and much improved regioselectivity in comparison with the other reducing reagents.
Vaccination with Antigen-Transfected, NKT Cell Ligand–Loaded, Human Cells Elicits Robust In Situ Immune Responses by Dendritic Cells
Authors: Shimizu Kanako , Mizuno Takuya , Shinga Jun , Asakura Miki , Kakimi Kazuhiro , Ishii Yasuyuki , Masuda Kenichi , Maeda Tomoji , Sugahara Hidetoshi , Sato Yusuke , Matsushita Hirokazu , Nishida Keigo , Hanada Kenichi , Dorrie Jan , Schaft Niels , Bickham Kara , Koike Hisashi , Ando Tsuyoshi , Nagai Ryozo , Fujii Shin-ichiro
Published: October 2012

Both innate and adaptive immunity are crucial for cancer immunosurveillance, but precise therapeutic equations to restore immunosurveillance in patients with cancer patients have yet to be developed. In murine models, α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer)–loaded, tumor antigen–expressing syngeneic or allogeneic cells can act as cellular adjuvants, linking the innate and adaptive immune systems. In the current study, we established human artificial adjuvant vector cells (aAVC) consisting of human HEK293 embryonic kidney cells stably transfected with the natural killer T (NKT) immune cell receptor CD1d, loaded with the CD1d ligand α-GalCer and then transfected with antigen-encoding mRNA. When administered to mice or dogs, these aAVC-activated invariant NKT (iNKT) cells elicited antigen-specific T-cell responses with no adverse events. In parallel experiments, using NOD/SCID/IL-2rγcnull–immunodeficient (hDC-NOG) mouse model, we also showed that the human melanoma antigen, MART-1, expressed by mRNA transfected aAVCs can be cross-presented to antigen-specific T cells by human dendritic cells. Antigen-specific T-cell responses elicited and expanded by aAVCs were verified as functional in tumor immunity. Our results support the clinical development of aAVCs to harness innate and adaptive immunity for effective cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Res; 73(1); 62–73. ©2012 AACR.
Immune-Dependent and Independent Antitumor Activity of GM-CSF Aberrantly Expressed by Mouse and Human Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Urdinguio Rocio G. , Fernandez Agustin F. , Moncada-Pazos Angela , Huidobro Covadonga , Rodriguez Ramon M. , Ferrero Cecilia , Martinez-Camblor Pablo , Obaya Alvaro J. , Bernal Teresa , Parra-Blanco Adolfo , Rodrigo Luis , Santacana Maria , Matias-Guiu Xavier , Soldevilla Beatriz , Dominguez Gemma , Bonilla Felix , Cal Santiago , Lopez-Otin Carlos , Fraga Mario F.
Published: October 2012

Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF/CSF2) is a cytokine produced in the hematologic compartment that may enhance antitumor immune responses, mainly by activation of dendritic cells. Here, we show that more than one-third of human colorectal tumors exhibit aberrant DNA demethylation of the GM-CSF promoter and overexpress the cytokine. Mouse engraftment experiments with autologous and homologous colon tumors engineered to repress the ectopic secretion of GM-CSF revealed the tumor-secreted GM-CSF to have an immune-associated antitumor effect. Unexpectedly, an immune-independent antitumor effect was observed that depended on the ectopic expression of GM-CSF receptor subunits by tumors. Cancer cells expressing GM-CSF and its receptor did not develop into tumors when autografted into immunocompetent mice. Similarly, 100% of the patients with human colon tumors that overexpressed GM-CSF and its receptor subunits survived at least 5 years after diagnosis. These data suggest that expression of GM-CSF and its receptor subunits by colon tumors may be a useful marker for prognosis as well as for patient stratification in cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Res; 73(1); 395–405. ©2012 AACR.
A Unique Galectin Signature in Human Prostate Cancer Progression Suggests Galectin-1 as a Key Target for Treatment of Advanced Disease
Authors: Laderach Diego J. , Gentilini Lucas D. , Giribaldi Laura , Delgado Victor Cardenas , Nugnes Lorena , Croci Diego O. , Al Nakouzi Nader , Sacca Paula , Casas Gabriel , Mazza Osvaldo , Shipp Margaret A. , Vazquez Elba , Chauchereau Anne , Kutok Jeffery L. , Rodig Scott J. , Elola María T. , Compagno Daniel , Rabinovich Gabriel A.
Published: October 2012

Galectins, a family of glycan-binding proteins, influence tumor progression by modulating interactions between tumor, endothelial, stromal, and immune cells. Despite considerable progress in identifying the roles of individual galectins in tumor biology, an integrated portrait of the galectin network in different tumor microenvironments is still missing. We undertook this study to analyze the “galectin signature” of the human prostate cancer microenvironment with the overarching goal of selecting novel-molecular targets for prognostic and therapeutic purposes. In examining androgen-responsive and castration-resistant prostate cancer cells and primary tumors representing different stages of the disease, we found that galectin-1 (Gal-1) was the most abundantly expressed galectin in prostate cancer tissue and was markedly upregulated during disease progression. In contrast, all other galectins were expressed at lower levels: Gal-3, -4, -9, and -12 were downregulated during disease evolution, whereas expression of Gal-8 was unchanged. Given the prominent regulation of Gal-1 during prostate cancer progression and its predominant localization at the tumor-vascular interface, we analyzed the potential role of this endogenous lectin in prostate cancer angiogenesis. In human prostate cancer tissue arrays, Gal-1 expression correlated with the presence of blood vessels, particularly in advanced stages of the disease. Silencing Gal-1 in prostate cancer cells reduced tumor vascularization without altering expression of other angiogenesis-related genes. Collectively, our findings identify a dynamically regulated “galectin-specific signature” that accompanies disease evolution in prostate cancer, and they highlight a major role for Gal-1 as a tractable target for antiangiogenic therapy in advanced stages of the disease. Cancer Res; 73(1); 86–96. ©2012 AACR.
A Classification Model for BRCA2 DNA Binding Domain Missense Variants Based on Homology-Directed Repair Activity
Authors: Guidugli Lucia , Pankratz Vernon S. , Singh Namit , Thompson James , Erding Catherine A. , Engel Christoph , Schmutzler Rita , Domchek Susan , Nathanson Katherine , Radice Paolo , Singer Christian , Tonin Patricia N. , Lindor Noralane M. , Goldgar David E. , Couch Fergus J.
Published: October 2012

The relevance of many BRCA2 variants of uncertain significance (VUS) to breast cancer has not been determined due to limited genetic information from families carrying these alterations. Here, we classified six new variants as pathogenic or nonpathogenic by analysis of genetic information from families carrying 64 individual BRCA2 DNA binding domain (DBD) missense mutations using a multifactorial likelihood model of cancer causality. Next, we evaluated the use of a homology-directed DNA break repair (HDR) functional assay as a method for inferring the clinical relevance of VUS in the DBD of BRCA2 using 18 established nonpathogenic missense variants and all 13 established pathogenic missense mutations from the BRCA2 DBD. Compared with the known status of these variants based on the multifactorial likelihood model, the sensitivity of the HDR assay for pathogenic mutations was estimated at 100% [95% confidence interval (CI): 75.3%–100%] and specificity was estimated at 100% (95% CI: 81.5%–100%). A statistical classifier for predicting the probability of pathogenicity of BRCA2 DBD variants was developed using these functional results. When applied to 33 additional VUS, the classifier identified eight with 99% or more probability of nonpathogenicity and 18 with 99% or more probability of pathogenicity. Thus, in the absence of genetic evidence, a cell-based HDR assay can provide a probability of pathogenicity for all VUS in the BRCA2 DBD, suggesting that the assay can be used in combination with other information to determine the cancer relevance of BRCA2 VUS. Cancer Res; 73(1); 265–75. ©2012 AACR.
Dose-Dense Chemotherapy Improves Mechanisms of Antitumor Immune Response
Authors: Chang Chih-Long , Hsu Yun-Ting , Wu Chao-Chih , Lai Yan-Zen , Wang Connie , Yang Yuh-Cheng , Wu T.-C. , Hung Chien-Fu
Published: October 2012

Dose-dense (DD) regimens of combination chemotherapy may produce superior clinical outcomes, but the basis for these effects are not completely clear. In this study, we assessed whether a DD combinatorial regimen of low-dose cisplatin and paclitaxel produces superior immune-mediated efficacy when compared with a maximum tolerated dose (MTD) regimen in treating platinum-resistant ovarian cancer as modeled in mice. Immune responses generated by the DD regimen were identified with regard to the immune cell subset responsible for the antitumor effects observed. The DD regimen was less toxic to the immune system, reduced immunosuppression by the tumor microenvironment, and triggered recruitment of macrophages and tumor-specific CD8+ T-cell responses to tumors [as determined by interleukin (IL)-2 and IFN-γ secretion]. In this model, we found that the DD regimen exerted greater therapeutic effects than the MTD regimen, justifying its further clinical investigation. Fourteen patients with platinum-resistant relapse of ovarian cancer received DD chemotherapy consisting of weekly carboplatin (AUC2) and paclitaxel (60–80 mg/m2) as the third- or fourth-line treatment. Serum was collected over the course of treatment, and serial IFN-γ and IL-2 levels were used to determine CD8+ T-cell activation. Of the four patients with disease control, three had serum levels of IL-2 and IFN-γ associated with cytotoxic CD8+ T-cell activity. The therapeutic effect of the DD chemotherapy relied on the preservation of the immune system and the treatment-mediated promotion of tumor-specific immunity, especially the antitumor CD8+ T-cell response. Because the DD regimen controlled drug-resistant disease through a novel immune mechanism, it may offer a fine strategy for salvage treatment. Cancer Res; 73(1); 119–27. ©2012 AACR.