bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approximation of the random inertial manifold of singularly perturbed stochastic wave equations
Authors: Lv Yan , Wang Wei , Roberts A. J.
Published: September 2013

By applying Rohlin's result on the classification of homomorphisms of Lebesgue space, the random inertial manifold of a stochastic damped nonlinear wave equations with singular perturbation is proved to be approximated almost surely by that of a stochastic nonlinear heat equation which is driven by a new Wiener process depending on the singular perturbation parameter. This approximation can be seen as the Smolukowski–Kramers approximation as time goes to infinity. However, as time goes infinity, the approximation changes with the small parameter, which is different from the approximation on a finite time interval.
MASSIVELY DISTRIBUTED CONCEPT DRIFT HANDLING IN LARGE NETWORKS
Authors: HEGEDŰS ISTVÁN , ORMÁNDI RÓBERT , JELASITY MÁRK
Published: September 2013

Massively distributed data mining in large networks such as smart device platforms and peer-to-peer systems is a rapidly developing research area. One important problem here is concept drift, where global data patterns (movement, preferences, activities, etc.) change according to the actual set of participating users, the weather, the time of day, or as a result of events such as accidents or even natural catastrophes. In an important case — when the network is very large but only a few training samples can be obtained at each node locally — no efficient distributed solution is known that could follow concept drift efficiently. This case is characteristic of smart device platforms where each device stores only one local observation or data record related to a learning problem. Here we present two algorithms to handle concept drift. None of the algorithms collects data to a central location, instead models of the data perform random walks in the network, while being improved using an online learning algorithm. The first algorithm achieves adaptivity by maintaining young as well as old models in the network according to a fixed age distribution. The second one measures the performance of models locally, and discards them if they are judged outdated. We demonstrate through a thorough experimental analysis that our algorithms outperform the known competing methods if the number of independent local samples is limited relative to the speed of drift: a typical scenario in our targeted application domains. The two algorithms have different strengths: while the age distribution approach is very simple and efficient, explicit drift detection can be useful in monitoring applications to trigger control action.
EDITORIAL
Authors: Phua Kok Khoo
Published: September 2013

In this issue of the Asia Pacific Physics Newsletter (APPN), we introduce four Astronomical Research Institutes in Asia Pacific: the Australian Astronomical Observatory, National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand, Shanghai Astronomical Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Academia Sinica, Taiwan.
The Fourth International Particle Accelerator Conference
Authors: Zhao Zhentang
Published: September 2013

The fourth International Particle Accelerator Conference, IPAC'13, took place at the Shanghai International Conference Center, Shanghai, China from Sunday to Friday, 12 to 17 May, 2013. It was attended by close to 1000 full time delegates from approximately 30 different countries on all continents. Hosted by the Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics (SINAP) and the Institute of High Energy Physics (IHEP), Beijing, it was supported by the Asian Committee for Future Accelerators (ACFA), the American Physical Society Division of Physics of Beams (APS-DPB), the European Physical Society Accelerator Group (EPS-AG), the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP), the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC). Furthermore, the attendance of over 85 young scientists from all over the world was made possible through the sponsorship of societies, institutes and laboratories worldwide (in alphabetical order): ACFA, APS-DPB, CAS, EPSAG with contributions from ALBA-CELLS, Centro Fermi, CERN, CNRS-IN2P3, DESY, Diamond Light Source, ESRF, GSI, HZB, HZDR, IFIC, JAI, Max Lab, PSI, Synchrotron Soleil and STFC/Cockcroft Institute, and IUPAP. The organizers of IPAC'13 are grateful to all sponsors for their valuable support.
Physicist Shoucheng Zhang Wins Prestigious Dirac Medal
Authors: Carey Bjorn
Published: September 2013

Physics Professor Shoucheng Zhang has won the prestigious Dirac Medal, in recognition for his work advancing the understanding of an exotic form of matter known as topological insulator.
C.N. Yang's message to the 12th Asia Pacific Physics Conference (APPC) and the 2013 Association of Asia Pacific Physical Societies (AAPPS) C.N. Yang award winners
Authors: Yang Chen Ning
Published: September 2013

Professor Chen Ning Yang was the chairperson of the ad hoc group for formation of the AAPPS from 1988 to August 1990 and served as the first president of the AAPPS from 11 August 1990 to 2 July 1994. He worked as a council member of the AAPPS in the second term and retired from the council in the end of 1997. The council acknowledged his long-standing contribution for the AAPPS and the AAPPS Award of Physics was renamed as the AAPPS Chen Ning Yang Award.
Aerobic exercise but not resistance exercise reduces intrahepatic lipid content and visceral fat and improves insulin sensitivity in obese adolescent girls: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lee SoJung , Deldin Anthony R. , White David , Kim YoonMyung , Libman Ingrid , Rivera-Vega Michelle , Kuk Jennifer L. , Sandoval Sandra , Boesch Chris , Arslanian Silva
Published: September 2013

It is unclear whether regular exercise alone (no caloric restriction) is a useful strategy to reduce adiposity and obesity-related metabolic risk factors in obese girls. We examined the effects of aerobic (AE) vs. resistance exercise (RE) alone on visceral adipose tissue (VAT), intrahepatic lipid, and insulin sensitivity in obese girls. Forty-four obese adolescent girls (BMI ≥95th percentile, 12–18 yr) with abdominal obesity (waist circumference 106.5 ± 11.1 cm) were randomized to 3 mo of 180 min/wk AE ( n = 16) or RE ( n = 16) or a nonexercising control group ( n = 12). Total fat and VAT were assessed by MRI and intrahepatic lipid by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Intermuscular AT (IMAT) was measured by CT. Insulin sensitivity was evaluated by a 3-h hyperinsulinemic (80 mU·m2·min−1) euglycemic clamp. Compared with controls (0.13 ± 1.10 kg), body weight did not change ( P > 0.1) in the AE (−1.31 ± 1.43 kg) and RE (−0.31 ± 1.38 kg) groups. Despite the absence of weight loss, total body fat (%) and IMAT decreased ( P < 0.05) in both exercise groups compared with control. Compared with control, significant ( P < 0.05) reductions in VAT (Δ−15.68 ± 7.64 cm2) and intrahepatic lipid (Δ−1.70 ± 0.74%) and improvement in insulin sensitivity (Δ0.92 ± 0.27 mg·kg−1·min−1 per μU/ml) were observed in the AE group but not the RE group. Improvements in insulin sensitivity in the AE group were associated with the reductions in total AT mass ( r = −0.65, P = 0.02). In obese adolescent girls, AE but not RE is effective in reducing liver fat and visceral adiposity and improving insulin sensitivity independent of weight loss or calorie restriction.
The receptor antagonist picotamide inhibits adrenergic and thromboxane-induced contraction of hyperplastic human prostate smooth muscle
Authors: Hennenberg Martin , Miljak Marijan , Herrmann Daniel , Strittmatter Frank , Walther Sebastian , Rutz Beata , Hocaoglu Yasemin , Kunit Thomas , Schreiber Andrea , Andersson Karl-Erik , Stief Christian G. , Gratzke Christian
Published: September 2013

Inhibition of prostate smooth muscle contraction is an important strategy for medical treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Besides α1-adrenoceptors, prostate smooth muscle contraction is induced by activation of thromboxane (TXA2) receptors (TXA2-R). Here, we examined the effects of the TXA2-R antagonist picotamide on contraction of human prostate tissue. Prostate tissues were obtained from radical prostatectomy. The effects of picotamide (300 μM), L-665,240 (3 μM), and seratrodast (3 μM) on U46619-, electric field stimulation- (EFS-), phenylephrine-, and norepinephrine-induced contractions were studied in organ baths. Expression of TXA2-R and TXA2 synthase (TXS) was examined by fluorescence stainings. Picotamide, seratrodast, and L-655,240 inhibited concentration-dependent contractions induced by the TXA2 analog U46619. Picotamide, but not seratrodast or L-655,240, inhibited frequency-dependent contractions induced by EFS. Picotamide inhibited concentration-dependent contractions induced by norepinephrine or by the selective α1-adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine. In prostate strips, where only submaximal contraction by a low dose of phenylephrine was induced, application of U46619 raised tone to maximum phenylephrine-induced tension. Immunoreactivity for TXA2-R and TXS was observed in the stroma and in epithelial cells of glands. Colocalization of both immunoreactivites was observed with the smooth muscle markers calponin and α-smooth muscle actin, with the epithelial marker pan-cytokeratin, and with prostate-specific antigen in the stroma and glands. The receptor antagonist picotamide inhibits α1-adrenergic, TXA2-mediated, and EFS-induced contractions in the human prostate. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first antagonist able to inhibit two different contraction systems in the prostate.
Pregnancy-associated genes contribute to antiluteolytic mechanisms in ovine corpus luteum
Authors: Romero Jared J. , Antoniazzi Alfredo Q. , Smirnova Natalia P. , Webb Brett T. , Yu Fang , Davis John S. , Hansen Thomas R.
Published: September 2013

The hypothesis that ovine luteal gene expression differs due to pregnancy status and day of estrous cycle was tested. RNA was isolated from corpora lutea (CL) on days 12 and 14 of the estrous cycle (NP) or pregnancy (P) and analyzed with the Affymetrix bovine microarray. RNA also was isolated from luteal cells on day 10 of estrous cycle that were cultured for 24 h with luteolytic hormones (OXT and PGF) and secretory products of the conceptus (IFNT and PGE2). Differential gene expression (>1.5-fold, P < 0.05) was confirmed using semiquantitative real-time PCR. Serum progesterone concentrations decreased from day 12 to day 15 in NP ewes ( P < 0.05) reflecting luteolysis and remained >1.7 ng/ml in P ewes reflecting rescue of the CL. Early luteolysis ( days 12–14) was associated with differential expression of 683 genes in the CL, including upregulation of SERPINE1 and THBS1. Pregnancy on day 12 (55 genes) and 14 (734 genes) also was associated with differential expression of genes in the CL, many of which were ISGs (i.e., ISG15, MX1) that were induced when culturing luteal cells with IFNT, but not PGE2. Finally, many genes, such as PTX3, IL6, VEGF, and LHR, were stabilized during pregnancy and downregulated during the estrous cycle and in response to culture of luteal cells with luteolytic hormones. In conclusion, pregnancy circumvents luteolytic pathways and activates or stabilizes genes associated with interferon, chemokine, cell adhesion, cytoskeletal, and angiogenic pathways in the CL.
The Dual and Mirror Images of the Dunwoody 3-Manifolds
Authors: Kim Soo Hwan , Kim Yangkok
Published: September 2013

Recently, in 2013, we proved that certain presentations present the Dunwoody3-manifold groups. Since the Dunwoody3-manifolds do not have a unique Heegaard diagram, we cannot determine a unique group presentation for the Dunwoody3-manifolds. It is well known that every(1,1)-knots in a lens space can be represented by the set𝒟of the 4-tuples(a,b,c,r)(Cattabriga and Mulazzani (2004); S. H. Kim and Y. Kim (2012, 2013)). In particular, to determine a unique Heegaard diagram of the Dunwoody3-manifolds, we proved the fact that the certain subset of𝒟representing all2-bridge knots of(1,1)-knots is determined completely by using the dual and mirror(1,1)-decompositions (S. H. Kim and Y. Kim (2011)). In this paper, we show how to obtain the dual and mirror images of all elements in𝒟as the generalization of some results by Grasselli and Mulazzani (2001); S. H. Kim and Y. Kim (2011).
Delayed Pneumocephalus-Induced Cranial Neuropathy
Authors: Marupudi Neena I. , Mittal Monika , Mittal Sandeep
Published: September 2013

Pneumocephalus is a common occurrence after cranial surgery, with patients typically remaining asymptomatic from a moderate amount of intracranial air. Postsurgical pneumocephalus rarely causes focal neurological deficits; furthermore, cranial neuropathy from postsurgical pneumocephalus is exceedingly uncommon. Only 3 cases have been previously reported that describe direct cranial nerve compression from intracranial air resulting in an isolated single cranial nerve deficit. The authors present a patient who developed dysconjugate eye movements from bilateral oculomotor nerve palsy. Direct cranial nerve compression occurred as a result of postoperative pneumocephalus in the interpeduncular cistern. The isolated cranial neuropathy gradually recovered as the intracranial air was reabsorbed.
Mathematical Modeling and Validation on a New Valve Core of the Throttle Valve in MPD
Authors: Fu Y. K. , Liu Q. Y. , Wang G. R. , Tao S. Y.
Published: September 2013

To achieve different demands for pressure control in managed pressure drilling (MPD), the relationship between the pressure difference and the valve opening was analyzed in the working process of MPD throttle. The throttle flow area equation and the flow area isosurface equation at different openings were derived. Then, the mathematical model of the throttle valve surface shape was established by solving the envelope curve of isosurface cluster. Furthermore, the shape curve equation of the valve core surface was derived and modified by applying this mathematical model. Finally, to verify the performance of this investigation, the comparison of the results between simulation and design values was performed. The results showed that the correlation between the throttle pressure difference and the valve opening is linearly related, which proves the correctness of the mathematical model for the throttle valve surface.
Molecular Detection and Genotyping ofChlamydia psittaciin Captive Psittacines from Costa Rica
Authors: Sheleby-Elías Jessica , Solórzano-Morales Ántony , Romero-Zuñiga Juan José , Dolz Gaby
Published: September 2013

Oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs from 117 captive psittacine birds presented at veterinary clinics (88) and from shelters/rescue centers of wildlife (29) were collected to determine the prevalence ofC. psittaciin captive birds in Costa Rica. Samples were collected during 2009 from a total of 19 different species of parrots, withAra macao(33),Amazona autumnalis(24),Amazona ochrocephala(21), andAra ararauna(8) being the most representative species sampled.C. psittaciwas detected in four (3.4%) birds using molecular detection (PCR). The positive samples belonged to birds presented at veterinary clinics; three of them wereAra macaoand oneAmazona ochrocephala. Three birds were adults; all positive birds showed no symptoms of illness and lived in homes with other birds, two in San José and two in Heredia. Sequencing was used to confirm the PCR positive results, showing that two samples ofC. psittacibelonged to genotype A, representing the first report of the presence of this genotype in Costa Rica. The detection of this bacterium in captive psittacine birds shows that there is a potential risk for people living or having contact with them and that there is a possibility of infecting other birds.
Efficacy of Acupuncture for Primary Insomnia: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Guo Jing , Wang Lin-Peng , Liu Cun-Zhi , Zhang Jie , Wang Gui-Ling , Yi Jing-Hong , Cheng Jin-Lian
Published: September 2013

Objectives. To investigate the six-week influence of acupuncture on sleep quality and daytime functioning in primary insomnia.Methods. The study was a double-dummy, single-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 180 patients with primary insomnia were randomly assigned to 3 groups: verum group underwent verum acupuncture plus placebo; estazolam group underwent estazolam plus sham acupuncture; sham group underwent sham acupuncture plus placebo. The outcome was measured by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and the 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36).Results. The three groups showed significant improvement compared with the pretreatment baseline. Compared with the other two groups, the verum group reported improved sleep quality (SQ) and vitality (VT), decreased daytime dysfunction (DD) and sleepiness (ESS score). The differences were kept from the treatment period to the end of the trial.Discussion. Verum acupuncture appeared to be more effective in increasing sleep quality and daytime functioning than sham acupuncture and estazolam.Trial Registration. The trial is registeded with ClinicalTrials.govISRCTN12585433.
Effect of Surfactant Concentration Variation on the Thermoelectric Properties of Mesoporous ZnO
Authors: Hong Min-Hee , Park Chang-Sun , Shin Sangwoo , Cho Hyung Hee , Seo Won-Seon , Lim Young Soo , Lee Jung-Kun , Park Hyung-Ho
Published: September 2013

The electrical and thermal conductivities and the Seebeck coefficient of mesoporous ZnO thin films were investigated to determine the change of their thermoelectric properties by controlling surfactant concentration in the mesoporous ZnO films, because the thermoelectric properties of mesoporous ZnO films can be influenced by the porosity of the mesoporous structures, which is primarily determined by surfactant concentration in the films. Mesoporous ZnO thin films were successfully synthesized by using sol‐gel and evaporation‐induced self‐assembly processes. Zinc acetate dihydrate and Brij‐76 were used as the starting material and pore structure‐forming template, respectively. The porosity of mesoporous ZnO thin films increased from 29% to 40% with increasing surfactant molar ratio. Porosity can be easily altered by controlling the molar ratio of surfactant/precursor. The electrical and thermal conductivity and Seebeck coefficients showed a close correlation with the porosity of the films, indicating that the thermoelectric properties of thin films can be changed by altering their porosity. Mesoporous ZnO thin films with the highest porosity had the best thermoelectric properties (the lowest thermal conductivity and the highest Seebeck coefficient) of the films examined.
Influence of Concentration and Activation on Hydrogen Peroxide Diffusion through Dental Tissues In Vitro
Authors: Torres Carlos R. G. , Souza Cristiane S. , Borges Alessandra B. , Huhtala Maria Filomena R. L. , Caneppele Taciana M. F.
Published: September 2013

This study evaluated the effect of physical and chemical activation on the diffusion time of different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (HP) bleaching agents through enamel and dentin. One hundred and twenty bovine cylindrical specimens were divided into six groups (n = 20): 20% HP ; 20% HP with light activation; 20% HP with manganese gluconate; 35% HP; 35% HP with light activation; and 35% HP with manganese gluconate. The specimens were fixed over transparent epoxy wells with internal cavities to simulate a pulpal chamber. This chamber was filled with an enzymatic reagent to simulate pulpal fluid. The bleaching gels were applied on enamel surface and the image of the pulpal fluid was captured by a video camera to monitor the time of peroxide penetration in each specimen. ANOVA analysis showed that concentration and type of activation of bleaching gel significantly influenced the diffusion time of HP (P < 0.05). 35% HP showed the lowest diffusion times compared to the groups with 20% HP gel. The light activation of HP decreased significantly the diffusion time compared to chemical activation. The highest diffusion time was obtained with 20% HP chemically activated. The diffusion time of HP was dependent on activation and concentration of HP. The higher concentration of HP diffused through dental tissues more quickly.
Immunomodulatory Activity and Protective Effects of Polysaccharide fromEupatorium adenophorumLeaf Extract on Highly Pathogenic H5N1 Influenza Infection
Authors: Jin Yi , Zhang Yuewei , Wan Chunyan , Wang Hongjun , Hou Lingyu , Chang Jianyu , Fan Kai , Xie Xiangming
Published: September 2013

The development of novel broad-spectrum, antiviral agents against H5N1 infection is urgently needed. In this study, we evaluated the immunomodulatory activities and protective effect ofEupatorium adenophorumpolysaccharide (EAP) against the highly pathogenic H5N1 subtype influenza virus. EAP treatment significantly increased the production of IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γbothin vivoandin vitroas measured by qPCR and ELISA. In a mouse infection model, intranasal administration of EAP at a dose of 25 mg/kg body weight prior to H5N1 viral challenge efficiently inhibited viral replication, decreased lung lesions, and increased survival rate. We further evaluated the innate immune recognition of EAP, as this process is regulated primarily Dectin-1 and mannose receptor (MR). These results indicate that EAP may have immunomodulatory properties and a potential prophylactic effect against H5N1 influenza infection. Our investigation suggests an alternative strategy for the development of novel antiinfluenza agents and benefits ofE. adenophorumproducts.
Oncogenic Brain Metazoan Parasite Infection
Authors: Spurgeon Angela N. , Cress Marshall C. , Gabor Oroszi , Ding Qing-Qing , Tanaka Tomoko , Miller Douglas C.
Published: September 2013

Multiple observations suggest that certain parasitic infections can be oncogenic. Among these, neurocysticercosis is associated with increased risk for gliomas and hematologic malignancies. We report the case of a 71-year-old woman with colocalization of a metazoan parasite, possibly cysticercosis, and a WHO grade IV neuroepithelial tumor with exclusively neuronal differentiation by immunohistochemical stains (immunopositive for synaptophysin, neurofilament protein, and Neu-N and not for GFAP, vimentin, or S100). The colocalization and temporal relationship of these two entities suggest a causal relationship.
Water-Filling Solution for Distributed Estimation of Correlated Data in WSN MIMO System
Authors: Arifin Ajib Setyo , Ohtsuki Tomoaki
Published: September 2013

We consider the distributed estimation of a random vector signal in a power constraint wireless sensor network (WSN) that follows a multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) coherent multiple access channel model. We design linear coding matrices based on linear minimum mean-square error (LMMSE) fusion rule that accommodates spatial correlated data. We obtain a closed-form solution that follows a water-filling strategy. We also derive a lower bound to this model. Simulation results show that when the data is more correlated, the distortion in terms of mean-square error (MSE) degrades. By taking into account the effects of correlation, observation, and channel matrices, the proposed method performs better than equal power method.
Multifocal Breast Cancer in Young Women with Prolonged Contact between Their Breasts and Their Cellular Phones
Authors: West John G. , Kapoor Nimmi S. , Liao Shu-Yuan , Chen June W. , Bailey Lisa , Nagourney Robert A.
Published: September 2013

Breast cancer occurring in women under the age of 40 is uncommon in the absence of family history or genetic predisposition, and prompts the exploration of other possible exposures or environmental risks. We report a case series of four young women—ages from 21 to 39—with multifocal invasive breast cancer that raises the concern of a possible association with nonionizing radiation of electromagnetic field exposures from cellular phones. All patients regularly carried their smartphones directly against their breasts in their brassieres for up to 10 hours a day, for several years, and developed tumors in areas of their breasts immediately underlying the phones. All patients had no family history of breast cancer, tested negative for BRCA1 and BRCA2, and had no other known breast cancer risks. Their breast imaging is reviewed, showing clustering of multiple tumor foci in the breast directly under the area of phone contact. Pathology of all four cases shows striking similarity; all tumors are hormone-positive, low-intermediate grade, having an extensive intraductal component, and all tumors have near identical morphology. These cases raise awareness to the lack of safety data of prolonged direct contact with cellular phones.
An Analysis on the Correlation and Gender Difference between College Students’ Internet Addiction and Mobile Phone Addiction in Taiwan
Authors: Chiu Shao-I , Hong Fu-Yuan , Chiu Su-Lin
Published: September 2013

This study is aimed at constructing a correlative model between Internet addiction and mobile phone addiction; the aim is to analyse the correlation (if any) between the two traits and to discuss the influence confirming that the gender has difference on this fascinating topic; taking gender into account opens a new world of scientific study to us. The study collected 448 college students on an island as study subjects, with 61.2% males and 38.8% females. Moreover, this study issued Mobile Phone Addiction Scale and Internet Addiction Scale to conduct surveys on the participants and adopts the structural equation model (SEM) to process the collected data. According to the study result, (1) mobile phone addiction and Internet addiction are positively related; (2) female college students score higher than male ones in the aspect of mobile addiction. Lastly, this study proposes relevant suggestions to serve as a reference for schools, college students, and future studies based on the study results.
Rao and Wald Tests for Adaptive Detection in Partially Homogeneous Environment with a Diversely Polarized Antenna
Authors: Zhang Chaozhu , Zhang Jing , Liu Chengyuan
Published: September 2013

This study considers Rao test and Wald test for adaptive detection based on a diversely polarized antenna (DPA) in partially homogeneous environment. The theoretical expressions for the probability of false alarm and detection are derived, and constant false alarm rate (CFAR) behaviour is remarked on. Furthermore, the monotonicities of detection probability of the two detectors are proved, and a polarization optimization detection algorithm to enhance the detection performance is proposed. The numerical simulations are conducted to attest to the validity of the above theoretical analysis and illustrate the improvement in the detection performance of the proposed optimization algorithm.
On Generalized Statistical Convergence of Order of Difference Sequences
Authors: Et Mikail , Altınok Hıfsı , Altın Yavuz
Published: September 2013

We introduce the concept of statistical convergence of order of difference sequences, and we give some relations between the set of statistical convergence of order of difference sequences and strong -summability of order . Furthermore some relations between the spaces and are examined.
Phase Relations inBa6−3xLn8+2xTi18O54(Ln = Nd & Sm) Electroceramics
Authors: Snashall Amanda L. , Liu Yun , Brink Frank , Withers Ray L. , Cooper Steven
Published: September 2013

A careful, systematic investigation ofBa6−3xLn8+2xTi18O54(BLnTss) ceramics has been performed in order to understand the relationship between composition, microstructure evolution, and microwave dielectric properties. In this paper, we report the effects of composition, morphology, and sintering time on the phase relations and properties of BLnTss (Ln = Nd, Nd/Sm, Sm) ceramics. The microwave dielectric properties of the materials are reported in addition to phase characterisation and structural analysis via X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. BLnTss,x=0.33, ceramics with high Sm content are found to experience a severe degradation of Qf and changes inτcftrending, associated with the onset of globular and needle-like grain morphology and a Ba-Ti rich phase.x=0.67ceramics with high Nd content are found to exhibit a secondary phase (Nd2Ti2O7) upon prolonged sintering which resulted in beneficial changes to Qf andτcfwithout affectingεr. Two BLnTss ceramics compositions with near-zeroτcfwere successfully synthesised with high Qf andεrvalues.
Pyrazinamide-Induced Exfoliative Dermatitis in a Patient on Hemodialysis: A Rare Complication
Authors: Jaisuresh Krishnaswamy
Published: September 2013

A 60-year-old male patient on maintenance hemodialysis was started on antituberculosis therapy with isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide for pulmonary tuberculosis. After 4 weeks of therapy, he developed pruritic lesions in the extremities followed by exfoliation. The lesions progressively spread over the entire body. Lesions resolved after withdrawal of antituberculosis medications and administration of oral corticosteroids and antihistamines. After 2 weeks antituberculosis drugs were rechallenged one at a time. Administration of oral pyrazinamide resulted in reappearance of symptoms (pruritis and erythema) within 48 hours. Pyrazinamide was substituted with ofloxacin while other three drugs were restarted without any side effects. The case illustrates a rare but potentially dangerous complication of pyrazinamide therapy.
A Bladder Wall Angiomyolipoma as a Manifestation of Tuberous Sclerosis: First Case Report
Authors: Kalkan Mehmet , Şahin Coşkun , Etlik Ömer , Uçmaklı Ergun
Published: September 2013

A 21-year-old female patient admitted to the emergency department complaining of left side pain. Hypovolemic shock, which was probably caused by retroperitoneal bleeding from left sided renal angiomyolipoma, was developed. Abdominal computed tomography showed multiple fat containing lesions in different, regions including right bladder wall, lower pole of left kidney, and right kidney. Some lesions compatible with tuberous sclerosis such as angiofibromas, Shagreen patches, myocardial, and brain hamartomas were also detected. Bladder wall mass showing intra- and extravesical extensions was seen at exploration. We removed the tumor completely preserving bladder trigone. Angiomyolipoma located at lower pole of left kidney was also removed. Diagnosis of bladder angiomyolipoma was confirmed by the immunohistochemical examination. Recurrent or residual mass was not detected at the three-months-follow-up. We report the first case of bladder angiomyolipoma confirmed by histopathologically as a tuberous sclerosis.
Diagnostic Value of the Combined Measurement of Serum Hcy, Serum Cys C, and Urinary Microalbumin in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Early Complicating Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Wang Tengkai , Wang Qian , Wang Zhimei , Xiao Zuomin , Liu Lunqin
Published: September 2013

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major cause of end-stage kidney disease, and therefore early diagnosis and intervention may help reverse renal damage. One hundred and sixty-eight patients with T2DM and 56 healthy volunteers (control group) were enrolled at Shandong University Qilu Hospital between April 2010 and October 2012. All subjects underwent blood sampling for sera homocysteine (Hcy) and cystatin C (Cys C) assays and a urine microalbumin test. The patients were divided into three groups according to the urine microalbumin excretion rate (UMAER): the simple DM group (SDM group, n=51), the early-stage DN group (EDN group, n=60), and the clinical DN and renal failure group (CDN group, n=57). Correlation analysis was performed to examine the association between sera Hcy and Cys C levels with UMAER. Our findings showed that sera Hcy level, Cys C level, and UMAER increased significantly in the SDM group (P<0.05, P<0.01), the EDN group (P<0.01), and the CDN group (P<0.01) as compared with the control group. These three biochemical markers also increased significantly with DN progression (P<0.01). Correlation analysis showed that sera Hcy and Cys C levels were positively correlated with UMAER (r=0.702, P<0.01; r=0.873, P<0.01). In conclusion, our results showed that sera Hcy and Cys C levels increased consistently with the development and progression of DN as indicated by UMAER. Sera Hcy and Cys C are sensitive biomarkers for the detection of early-stage DN and monitoring its progression.
Mesothelial Cyst of the Round Ligament Misdiagnosed as Irreducible Inguinal Hernia
Authors: Manatakis Dimitrios K. , Stamos Nikolaos , Agalianos Christos , Vamvakas Panagiotis , Kordelas Athanasios , Davides Demetrios
Published: September 2013

We report the case of a 36-year-old woman who presented with signs and symptoms of an irreducible inguinal hernia. Surgical exploration revealed a mesothelial cyst of the round ligament of the uterus. Mesothelial cysts of the round ligament are rare lesions, frequently masquerading as inguinal hernias, and should be included in the differential diagnosis of any inguinal mass. Clinical findings are those of a groin mass, discomfort, and bulging. Ultrasound and CT scans often demonstrate an aperistaltic cystic mass. Definitive diagnosis is usually made intraoperatively and confirmed histopathologically.
Synthesis and Characterization of CeVO4 by Microwave Radiation Method and Its Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Ekthammathat Nuengruethai , Thongtem Titipun , Phuruangrat Anukorn , Thongtem Somchai
Published: September 2013

A general microwave synthesis method was developed to synthesize cerium orthovanadate (CeVO4) nanostructures without the use of any catalysts or templates. This method is able to control the shape and size of the products by adjusting the pH of precursor solutions to be 1–10. Phase, purity, and different morphologies of the products were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, and TEM. They showed that the as‐synthesized products exhibited pure single crystalline CeVO4 with tetragonal structure. Their morphologies developed in sequence as nanoparticles (pH = 4–10), nanorods (pH = 2, 3), and microflowers (pH = 1). UV‐visible spectra were used to estimate the direct energy gaps of CeVO4 nanorods and microflowers: 3.77 and 3.65 eV, respectively. Photoluminescence (PL) of CeVO4 microflowers showed strong emission intensities at 578 nm. These results were in the range of possible application for photocatalysis, investigated by studying the degradation of methylene blue.
Statin Modulation of Human T-Cell Proliferation, IL-1 and IL-17 Production, and IFN- T Cell Expression: Synergy with Conventional Immunosuppressive Agents
Authors: Jameel Ashmal , Ooi Kenneth G.-J. , Jeffs Natasha R. , Galatowicz Grazyna , Lightman Susan L. , Calder Virginia L.
Published: September 2013

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) have been demonstrated to be immunomodulatory for human immune-mediated disease and in experimental models. The aim of this study was to compare statin-mediated immunosuppressive effects on human T-cell responsesin vitrowith those of conventional immunosuppressives (dexamethasone, cyclosporin A (CsA), mycophenolate, and rapamycin). Statins (atorvastatin, lovastatin, and simvastatin) were investigated for their modulatory effects on human PBMC viability, cytokine profiles, and T-cell proliferation. At concentrations that inhibited anti-CD3/28-stimulated T-cell proliferation (), simvastatin significantly decreased intracellular CD4+T-cell expression of IFN- () to levels similar to those induced by conventional immunosuppressives. Atorvastatin and lovastatin also decreased IFN- expression, although to a lesser degree (). All three statins reduced levels of IL-17 production (). However, in response to anti-CD3/28 stimulation, simvastatin significantly upregulated IL-1 production (). The profile of cytokines produced in response to anti-CD3/28 stimulation was similar when both atorvastatin and dexamethasone were added as compared with dexamethasone alone, suggesting that atorvastatin can synergise with dexamethasone with respect to immunomodulation of cytokines. This data supports the hypothesis of selective statin-mediated immunomodulatory effects on human immune cells.
Synthesis and Performance of an Acrylamide Copolymer Containing Nano‐SiO2 as Enhanced Oil Recovery Chemical
Authors: Ye Zhongbin , Qin Xiaoping , Lai Nanjun , Peng Qin , Li Xi , Li Cuixia
Published: September 2013

A novel copolymer containing nano‐SiO2 was synthesized by free radical polymerization using acrylamide (AM), acrylic acid (AA), and nano‐SiO2 functional monomer (NSFM) as raw materials under mild conditions. The AM/AA/NSFM copolymer was characterized by infrared (IR) spectroscopy, 1H NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). It was found that the AM/AA/NSFM copolymer exhibited higher viscosity than the AM/AA copolymer at 500 s−1 shear rate (18.6 mPa·s versus 8.7 mPa·s). It was also found that AM/AA/NSFM could achieve up to 43.7% viscosity retention rate at 95°C. Mobility control results indicated that AM/AA/NSFM could establish much higher resistance factor (RF) and residual resistance factor (RRF) than AM/AA under the same conditions (RF: 16.52 versus 12.17, RRF: 3.63 versus 2.59). At last, the enhanced oil recovery (EOR) of AM/AA/NSFM was up to 20.10% by core flooding experiments at 65°C.
The Roles of Fibroblast Growth Factors in the Testicular Development and Tumor
Authors: Jiang Xin , Skibba Melissa , Zhang Chi , Tan Yi , Xin Ying , Qu Yaqin
Published: September 2013

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are classically known as hormonal factors and recent studies have revealed that FGFs have a key role in regulating growth and development of several reproductive organs, including the testis. The testis is mainly consisted of germ cells, Sertoli cells and Leydig cells to develop and maintain the male phenotype and reproduction. This review summarizes the structure and fuctions of testis, the roles of FGFs on testicular development and potential involvement in testicular tumor and its regulatory mechanism. Among 23 members of FGFs, the FGF-1, FGF-2, FGF-4, FGF-8, FGF-9, and FGF-21 were involved and describe in details. Understanding the roles and mechanism of FGFs is the foundation to modeling testicular development and treatments in testicular disease. Therefore, in the last part, the potential therapy with FGFs for the testis of cancer and diabetes was also discussed.
SPECT-CT Assessment of Pseudarthrosis after Spinal Fusion: Diagnostic Pitfall due to a Broken Screw
Authors: Rager Olivier , Amzalag Gaël , Varoquaux Arthur , Schaller Karl , Ratib Osman , Tessitore Enrico
Published: September 2013

A 43-year-old drug addicted female was referred for a L5-S1 posterolateral in situ fixation with autologous graft because of an L5/S1 severe discopathy with listhesis. After six months, low back pain recurred. A Tc-99m HDP SPECT-CT diagnosed a pseudarthrosis with intense uptake of the L5-S1 endplates and a fracture of the right S1 screw just outside the metal-bone interface without any uptake or bone resorption around the screw. The absence of uptake around a broken screw is a pitfall that the physician should be aware of.
Synchronization of Uncertain Fractional-Order Hyperchaotic Systems via Unidirectional Linear Error Feedback Coupling Scheme
Authors: Kuntanapreeda Suwat
Published: September 2013

A simple method for synchronization of uncertain fractional-order hyperchaotic systems is proposed in this paper. The method makes use of a unidirectional linear coupling approach due to its simple configuration and ease of implementation. To determine the coupling parameters, the synchronization error dynamics is first formulated as a fractional-order linear interval system. Then, the parameters are obtained by solving a linear matrix inequality (LMI) stability condition for stabilization of fractional-order linear interval systems. Thanks to the existence of an LMI solution, the convergence of the synchronization errors is guaranteed. The effectiveness of the proposed method is numerically illustrated by the uncertain fractional-order hyperchaotic Lorenz system.
Method Development and Validation for Estimation of Eperisone Hydrochloride as API and in Tablet Dosage Form by Two Spectroscopic Methods
Authors: Banerjee Joytosh , Solanki Renu , Nagori Badri Prakash
Published: September 2013

Two simple and sensitive spectrophotometric methods have been developed for the determination of eperisone hydrochloride based on its ability to be detected in UV region (Normal UV) and its oxidation using potassium permanganate in alkaline medium (kinetic spectroscopic). The detection was done at 261.40 nm and 603.5 nm. The different experimental parameters affecting the method development were studied and optimized. The initial rate and fixed time method were utilized to construct calibration graph, and 5 minutes and 3 minutes, respectively, were found suitable for the determination of the concentration of drug. Linearity was found over the concentration range of 2–20 μg/mL, 15–30 μg/mL, and 15–35 μg/mL by UV, initial rate, and fixed time methods, respectively. The results were validated as per the ICH guidelines. RSD values were found to be less than 2%. The methods were applied for estimation of eperisone hydrochloride in RAPISONE (Abbott, Maharashtra). The assay results were found to be 100.4% ± 0.08, 99.93% ± 0.05, and 99.41% ± 0.04 by UV, initial rate, and fixed time method, respectively. Statistical comparison of the proposed methods showed a good agreement indicating no significant difference in accuracy and precision, thus confirming the suitability of UV and kinetic method for the estimation of eperisone hydrochloride in bulk as well as in tablet dosage forms.
Stabilizing Effect of Various Polyols on the Native and the Denatured States of Glucoamylase
Authors: Zaroog Mohammed Suleiman , Abdul Kadir Habsah , Tayyab Saad
Published: September 2013

Different spectral probes were employed to study the stabilizing effect of various polyols, such as, ethylene glycol (EG), glycerol (GLY), glucose (GLC) and trehalose (TRE) on the native (N), the acid‐denatured (AD) and the thermal‐denatured (TD) states of Aspergillus niger glucoamylase (GA). Polyols induced both secondary and tertiary structural changes in the AD state of enzyme as reflected from altered circular dichroism (CD), tryptophan (Trp), and 1‐anilinonaphthalene‐8‐sulfonic acid (ANS) fluorescence characteristics. Thermodynamic analysis of the thermal denaturation curve of native GA suggested significant increase in enzyme stability in the presence of GLC, TRE, and GLY (in decreasing order) while EG destabilized it. Furthermore, CD and fluorescence characteristics of the TD state at 71°C in the presence of polyols showed greater effectiveness of both GLC and TRE in inducing native‐like secondary and tertiary structures compared to GLY and EG.
An Experimental Investigation of Residual Stresses in High-Speed End Milling 7050-T7451 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Huang Xiaoming , Sun Jie , Li Jianfeng , Han Xiong , Xiong Qingchun
Published: September 2013

A high-speed milling experiment by means of orthogonal method with four factors was conducted for aluminum alloy 7050-T7451. The residual stresses (RS) on the surface and subsurface of the work piece were measured using X-ray diffraction technique and electropolishing technology. The exponent's mathematical model for milling residual stress of 7050-T7451 aluminum alloy was established related to machining parameters. The predicted values were compared with the data from experiments. The effect of cutting speed, feed rate, and width and depth of cut on residual stress was investigated using the ANOVA techniques. The affecting degree of milling parameters are shown as v > f z > a p > a e in order. The influence trend of milling factors on residual stresses was also studied; the machine-induced residual compressive stresses tend to decline with the increase of cutting speed and decrease of the feed rate.
Comparative Study of Heavy Metals in Soil and Selected Medicinal Plants
Authors: Shah Afzal , Niaz Abdul , Ullah Nazeef , Rehman Ali , Akhlaq Muhammad , Zakir Muhammad , Suleman Khan Muhammad
Published: September 2013

Essential and nonessential heavy metals like iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) were analyzed in four selected medicinal plants such as Capparis spinosa, Peganum harmala, Rhazya stricta, and Tamarix articulata by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (FAAS). These medicinal plants are extensively used as traditional medicine for treatment of various ailments by local physicians in the area from where these plants were collected. The concentration level of heavy metals in the selected plants was found in the decreasing order as Fe > Zn > Mn > Cu > Ni > Cr > Cd > Pb. The results revealed that the selected medicinal plants accumulate these elements at different concentrations. Monitoring such medicinal plants for heavy metals concentration is of great importance for physicians, health planners, health care professionals, and policymakers in protecting the public from the adverse effects of these heavy metals.
Congestion Control Based on Consensus in the Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Yang Xinhao , Jia Juncheng , Zhang Shukui , Li Ze
Published: September 2013

The congestion control algorithm based on the weighted directed graph is designed for the network congestion over the wireless sensor network. The congestion problem is modeled as a distributed dynamic system with time-varying delay, and it can be proven that the sent rate for all nodes converges to the available bandwidth of the sink by the proposed congestion control algorithm. Via Lyapunov function, the validity of the proposed algorithm is shown under the varying network topologies. Ns simulation results indicate that the proposed algorithm restrains the congestion over the wireless sensor network, maintains a high throughput and a low delay time, and also improves the quality of service for the whole network.
Modifications on Microporosity and Physical Properties of Cement Mortar Caused by Carbonation: Comparison of Experimental Methods
Authors: Pham Son Tung
Published: September 2013

The influence of carbonation on the microstructure of normalised CEM II mortar was studied using nitrogen adsorption and porosity accessible to water. Samples were prepared and subjected to accelerated carbonation at 20°C, 65% relative humidity, and 20% CO2concentration. Conflicts in results were observed because while the pore size distributions calculated by BJH method from nitrogen adsorption provided evolution of the micro- and mesopores during carbonation, the porosity accessible to water showed changes in all three porous domains: macro-, meso- and micropores. Furthermore, the porous domains explored by water and nitrogen molecules are not the same because of the difference in the molecular sizes. These two techniques are therefore different and help to complementarily evaluate the effects of carbonation. We also examined the evolution of macrophysical properties such as the solid phase volume using helium pycnometry, gas permeability, thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, and longitudinal and transverse ultrasonic velocities. This is a multiscale study where results on microstructural changes can help to explain the evolution of macro physical properties.