bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MONTE-CARLO SIMULATION OF ULTRA-THIN FILM SILICON-ON-INSULATOR MOSFETs
Authors: GÁMIZ FRANCISCO , SAMPEDRO CARLOS , DONETTI LUCA , GODOY ANDRES
Published: December 2013

State-of-the-Art devices are approaching to the performance limit of traditional MOSFET as the critical dimensions are shrunk. Ultrathin fully depleted Silicon-on-Insulator transistors and multi-gate devices based on SOI technology are the best candidates to become a standard solution to overcome the problems arising from such aggressive scaling. Moreover, the flexibility of SOI wafers and processes allows the use of different channel materials, substrate orientations and layer thicknesses to enhance the performance of CMOS circuits. From the point of view of simulation, these devices pose a significant challenge. Simulations tools have to include quantum effects in the whole structure to correctly describe the behavior of these devices. The Multi-Subband Monte Carlo (MSB-MC) approach constitutes today's most accurate method for the study of nanodevices with important applications to SOI devices. After reviewing the main basis of MSB-MC method, we have applied it to answer important questions which remain open regarding ultimate SOI devices. In the first part of the chapter we present a thorough study of the impact of different Buried OXide (BOX) configurations on the scaling of extremely thin fully depleted SOI devices using a Multi-Subband Ensemble Monte Carlo simulator (MS-EMC). Standard thick BOX, ultra thin BOX (UTBOX) and UTBOX with ground plane (UTBOX+GP) solutions have been considered in order to check their influence on short channel effects (SCEs). The simulations show that the main limiting factor for downscaling is the DIBL and the UTBOX+GP configuration is the only valid one to downscale SGSOI transistors beyond 20 nm channel length keeping the silicon slab thickness above the theoretical limit of 5 nm, where thickness variability and mobility reduction would play an important role. In the second part, we have used the multisubband Ensemble Monte Carlo simulator to study the electron transport in ultrashort DGSOI devices with different confinement and transport directions. Our simulation results show that transport effective mass, and subband redistribution are the main factors that affect drift and scattering processes and, therefore, the general performance of DGSOI devices when orientation is changed
AN ADAPTIVE CONJUGACY CONDITION AND RELATED NONLINEAR CONJUGATE GRADIENT METHODS
Authors: BABAIE-KAFAKI SAMAN
Published: December 2013

In an attempt to find a reasonable solution for an open problem propounded by Andrei in nonlinear conjugate gradient methods, an adaptive conjugacy condition is proposed. The suggested condition is designed based on an implicit switch from a conjugacy condition to the standard secant equation, using an extended conjugacy condition proposed by Dai and Liao. Following the approach of Dai and Liao, two adaptive nonlinear conjugate gradient methods are proposed based on the suggested adaptive conjugacy condition. An interesting feature of one of the proposed methods is the adaptive switch between the nonlinear conjugate gradient methods proposed by Hestenes and Stiefel, and Perry. Under proper conditions, it is shown that one of the proposed methods is globally convergent for uniformly convex functions and the other is globally convergent for general functions. Numerical results demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive approach in the sense of the performance profile introduced by Dolan and Moré are reported.
COORDINATING THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF A SHARED OBJECT: AN APPROACH TO STUDY INTERORGANIZATIONAL INNOVATION
Authors: DEKEN FLEUR , LAUCHE KRISTINA
Published: December 2013

To advance theory on interorganizational product innovation, we propose an analytical model based on activity theory. Our model directs attention to the emergent micro-processes of interorganizational coordination. The main premise of our model is that contradictions between an organization's different activity systems create disturbances, which require practitioners to (partly) align work practices and (partly) integrate their different perceptions of the design object. These integration efforts may lead to work practice innovation and an expanded view of the object of product innovation. The contribution of our model lies in its practice perspective and its focus on the development of the object of innovation.
DEVELOPING INFRASTRUCTURE TO SUPPORT OPEN INNOVATION: CASE STUDIES FROM THE EAST OF ENGLAND
Authors: MINSHALL TIM , KOURIS STEFAN , MORTARA LETIZIA , SCHMITHAUSEN PATRICK , WEISS DAVID
Published: December 2013

This paper investigates the role that publicly funded infrastructure can play in supporting the implementation of open innovation at particular locations. Three case studies of open innovation infrastructure projects in the East of England illustrate contrasting approaches to delivering an infrastructure to support open innovation. The paper analyzes the cases using concepts from the literature on open innovation, regional innovation systems and business incubation. The cases reveal insights on how emerging management theories can have direct influence on regional innovation policies, and reveal the complexities of managing changing multi-stakeholder interests in relation to an approach to supporting innovation whose success is inherently hard to measure.
ON METRIC DIMENSION OF FUNCTIGRAPHS
Authors: EROH LINDA , KANG CONG X. , YI EUNJEONG
Published: December 2013

The metric dimension of a graph G, denoted by dim (G), is the minimum number of vertices such that each vertex is uniquely determined by its distances to the chosen vertices. Let G1and G2be disjoint copies of a graph G and let f : V(G1) → V(G2) be a function. Then a functigraphC(G, f) = (V, E) has the vertex set V = V(G1) ∪ V(G2) and the edge set E = E(G1) ∪ E(G2) ∪ {uv | v = f(u)}. We study how metric dimension behaves in passing from G to C(G, f) by first showing that 2 ≤ dim (C(G, f)) ≤ 2n - 3, if G is a connected graph of order n ≥ 3 and f is any function. We further investigate the metric dimension of functigraphs on complete graphs and on cycles.
Exact online two-dimensional pattern matching using multiple pattern matching algorithms
Authors: Kouzinopoulos Charalampos S. , Margaritis Konstantinos G.
Published: December 2013

Baker and Bird and Baeza-Yates and Regnier are two of the most efficient and widely used algorithms for exact online two-dimensional pattern matching. Both use the automaton of the Aho-Corasick multiple pattern matching algorithm to locate all the occurrences of a two-dimensional pattern in a two-dimensional input string, a data structure that is considered by many as inefficient, especially when used to process long patterns or data using large alphabet sizes. This article presents variants of the Baker and Bird and the Baeza-Yates and Regnier algorithms that use the data structures of the Set Horspool, Wu-Manber, Set Backward Oracle Matching, and SOG multiple pattern matching algorithms in place of the automaton of Aho-Corasick and evaluates their performance experimentally in terms of preprocessing and searching time.
On branching rules for convex mixed-integer nonlinear optimization
Authors: Bonami Pierre , Lee Jon , Leyffer Sven , Wächter Andreas
Published: December 2013

Branch-and-Bound (B&B) is perhaps the most fundamental algorithm for the global solution of convex Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Programming (MINLP) problems. It is well-known that carrying out branching in a nonsimplistic manner can greatly enhance the practicality of B&B in the context of Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP). No detailed study of branching has heretofore been carried out for MINLP. In this article, we study and identify useful sophisticated branching methods for MINLP, including novel approaches based on approximations of the nonlinear relaxations by linear and quadratic programs.
Faster reaction mapping through improved naming techniques
Authors: Kouri Tina M. , Mehta Dinesh P.
Published: December 2013

Automated reaction mapping is an important tool in cheminformatics where it may be used to classify reactions or validate reaction mechanisms. The reaction mapping problem is known to be NP-Hard and may be formulated as an optimization problem. In this article, we present four algorithms that continue to obtain optimal solutions to this problem, but with significantly improved runtimes over the previous Constructive Count Vector (CCV) algorithm. Our algorithmic improvements include (i) the use of a fast (but not 100% accurate) canonical labeling algorithm, (ii) name reuse (i.e., storing intermediate results rather than recomputing), and (iii) an incremental approach to canonical name computation. The time to map the reactions from the Kegg/Ligand database previously took over 2 days using CCV, but now it takes fewer than 4 hours to complete. Experimental results on chemical reaction databases demonstrate our 2-CCV FDN MS algorithm usually performs over fifteen times faster than previous automated reaction mapping algorithms.
Application of Box-Behnken Design in Optimization of Glucose Production from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch Cellulose
Authors: Pasma Satriani Aga , Daik Rusli , Maskat Mohamad Yusof , Hassan Osman
Published: December 2013

Oil palm empty fruit bunch fiber (OPEFB) is a lignocellulosic waste from palm oil mills. It contains mainly cellulose from which glucose can be derived to serve as raw materials for valuable chemicals such as succinic acid. A three-level Box-Behnken design combined with the canonical and ridge analysis was employed to optimize the process parameters for glucose production from OPEFB cellulose using enzymatic hydrolysis. Organosolv pretreatment was used to extract cellulose from OPEFB using ethanol and water as the solvents. The extracted cellulose was characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Hydrolysis parameters including amount of enzyme, amount of cellulose, and reaction time were investigated. The experimental results were fitted with a second-order polynomial equation by a multiple regression analysis and found that more than 97% of the variations could be predicted by the models. Using the ridge analysis, the optimal conditions reaction time found for the production of glucose was 76 hours and 30 min, whereas the optimum amount of enzyme and cellulose was 0.5 mL and 0.9 g, respectively. Under these optimal conditions, the corresponding response value predicted for glucose concentration was 169.34 g/L, which was confirmed by validation experiments.
Pharmacokinetic Delivery and Metabolizing Rate of Nicardipine Incorporated in Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Cyclodextrins Using Two‐Compartment Mathematical Model
Authors: Shityakov Sergey , Förster Carola
Published: December 2013

The dispersion routes of cyclodextrin complexes with nicardipine (NC), such as hydrophilic hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (NC/HPβCD) and hydrophobic triacetyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (NC/TAβCD), through the body for controlled drug delivery and sustained release have been examined. The two‐compartment pharmacokinetic model described the mechanisms of how the human body handles with ingestion of NC‐cyclodextrin complexes in gastrointestinal tract (GI), distribution in plasma, and their metabolism in the liver. The model showed that drug bioavailability was significantly improved after oral administration of cyclodextrin complexes. The mathematical significance of this study to predict nicardipine delivery using pharmacokinetic two‐compartment mathematical model with linear ordinary differential equations (ODE) approach represents a valuable tool to emphasize its effectiveness and metabolizing rate and diminish the side effects.
Positive Solutions of Nonlinear Elliptic Equations with Nonlinear Boundary Conditions
Authors: Luo Hua
Published: December 2013

This paper discusses bifurcation from interval for the elliptic eigenvalue problems with nonlinear boundary conditions and studies the behavior of the bifurcation components.
Spectroscopic and Gas Chromatographic Studies of Pigments and Binders in Gdańsk Paintings of the 17th Century
Authors: Olszewska-Świetlik Justyna , Szmelter-Fausek Bożena , Pięta Ewa , Proniewicz Edyta
Published: December 2013

This work presents spectroscopic (optical microscopy, OM; micro-Raman, Raman; and Fourier-transform adsorption infrared, FT-IR) and gas chromatographic studies of two famous panel paintings from the Gdańsk artists of the 17th century Golden Age, “Servilius Appius” by Isaac van den Blocke and “Allegory of Wealth” probably by Anton Möller. Application of the aforementioned methods allowed us to identify pigments and binders used in the panel paintings. In particular, it was determined that the yellow pigment used by both artists is lead-tin yellow type I (2PbO·SnO2), the white pigment is lead (II) carbonate hydroxide (2PbCO3·Pb(OH)2), and the ground layer material consist of chalk (CaCO3). The analysis showed also that in the case of “Allegory of Wealth,” the red layer consists not only of cinnabar (HgS) but also of lead-tin yellow type I.
Design and Implementation of ZigBee-Ontology-Based Exhibit Guidance and Recommendation System
Authors: Chien Hung-Yu , Chen Shyr-Kuen , Lin Ching-Yang , Yan Jia-Ling , Liao Wei-Chen , Chu Huan-Yi , Chen Kuan-Ju , Lai Bo-Fan , Chen Yi-Ting
Published: December 2013

Even though information devices and systems have been widely applied in guidance service for museums and exhibitions, there are still several critical requirements unsatisfied. In our research, we systematically examine the requirements and then propose a new architecture for museum/exhibition guidance service; we further, based on ZigBee and ontology, implemented a new guide device and a new guidance and recommendation system. The contributions include (1) an extendable and comprehensive architecture for guidance service; (2) an automatic and personalized guidance service system; (3) overcoming the limitations and weaknesses of conventional guidance systems short distance limitation and network saturation problem in crowded environments; and (4) on-line user status monitoring and real-time recommendation service.
Xiangshao Granule Exerts Antidepressive Effects in a Depression Mouse Model by Ameliorating Deficits in Hippocampal BDNF and TrkB
Authors: Chen Yi , Liu Jie , Wu Xiaoting , Nice Edouard Collins
Published: December 2013

This study explores the therapeutic effects of Xiangshao granules in a mouse depression model and examines the potential molecular mechanisms involved. After 21 consecutive days of chronic stress challenge, all mice were divided into three groups: control group, depression group, and Xiangshao granule treatment group. On the 22nd day, rats in the Xiangshao granule treatment group received Xiangshao granules via gastrogavage for 3 consecutive weeks. Depression group mice showed a significant reduction of crossings (P<0.01) but not rearings (P<0.05). Serum CRH, CORT, and ACTH levels were significantly increased in depression mice compared with control (P<0.05) and the expression levels of hippocampal BDNF and TrkB were reduced in the model group (P<0.05). However, Xiangshao granule treatment remarkably rescued the decrease in the body weight (P<0.05), increased crossings in the open field test (P<0.05), upregulated the expression of hippocampal BDNF and TrkB expression, and reduced the serum CRH, CORT, and ACTH concentrations compared with the depression group (P<0.05). Collectively, these results demonstrated that Xiangshao granule could effectively induce antidepressive effects in the depression mouse model by ameliorating the expression of hippocampal BDNF and TrkB.
The Inhibitory Effects of Curcuma longa L. Essential Oil and Curcumin on Aspergillus flavus Link Growth and Morphology
Authors: Ferreira Flávio Dias , Mossini Simone Aparecida Galerani , Ferreira Francine Maery Dias , Arrotéia Carla Cristina , da Costa Christiane Luciana , Nakamura Celso Vataru , Machinski Junior Miguel
Published: December 2013

The essential oil from Curcuma longa L. was analysed by GC/MS. The major components of the oil were ar‐turmerone (33.2%), α‐turmerone (23.5%) and β‐turmerone (22.7%). The antifungal activities of the oil were studied with regard to Aspergillus flavus growth inhibition and altered morphology, as preliminary studies indicated that the essential oil from C. longa inhibited Aspergillus flavus Link aflatoxin production. The concentration of essential oil in the culture media ranged from 0.01% to 5.0% v/v, and the concentration of curcumin was 0.01–0.5% v/v. The effects on sporulation, spore viability, and fungal morphology were determined. The essential oil exhibited stronger antifungal activity than curcumin on A. flavus. The essential oil reduced the fungal growth in a concentration‐dependent manner. A. flavus growth rate was reduced by C. longa essential oil at 0.10%, and this inhibition effect was more efficient in concentrations above 0.50%. Germination and sporulation were 100% inhibited in 0.5% oil. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of A. flavus exposed to oil showed damage to hyphae membranes and conidiophores. Because the fungus is a plant pathogen and aflatoxin producer, C. longa essential oil may be used in the management of host plants.
Brain Reorganization following Intervention in Children with Congenital Hemiplegia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Inguaggiato E. , Sgandurra G. , Perazza S. , Guzzetta A. , Cioni G.
Published: December 2013

Noninvasive rehabilitation strategies for children with unilateral cerebral palsy are routinely used to improve hand motor function, activity, and participation. Nevertheless, the studies exploring their effects on brain structure and function are very scarce. Recently, structural neuroplasticity was demonstrated in adult poststroke patients, in response to neurorehabilitation. Our purpose is to review current evidence on the effects of noninvasive intervention strategies on brain structure or function, in children with unilateral cerebral palsy. The main literature databases were searched up to October 2013. We included studies where the effects of upper limb training were evaluated at neurofunctional and/or neurostructural levels. Only seven studies met our selection criteria; selected studies were case series, six using the intervention of the constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) and one used virtual reality therapy (VR). CIMT and VR seem to produce measurable neuroplastic changes in sensorimotor cortex associated with enhancement of motor skills in the affected limb. However, the level of evidence is limited, due to methodological weaknesses and small sample sizes of available studies. Well-designed and larger experimental studies, in particular RCTs, are needed to strengthen the generalizability of the findings and to better understand the mechanism of intervention-related brain plasticity in children with brain injury.
Microscopic Driving Parameters-Based Energy-Saving Effect Analysis under Different Electric Vehicle Penetration
Authors: Yao Enjian , Lang Zhifeng , Song Yuanyuan , Yang Yang , Zuo Ting
Published: December 2013

Due to the rapid motorization over the recent years, China's transportation sector has been facing an increasing environmental pressure. Compared with gasoline vehicle (GV), electric vehicle (EV) is expected to play an important role in the mitigation of CO2 and other pollution emissions, and urban air quality improvement, for its zero emission during use and higher energy efficiency. This paper aims to estimate the energy saving efficiency of EV, especially under different EV penetration and road traffic conditions. First, based on the emission and electricity consumption data collected by a light-duty EV and a light duty GV, a set of electricity consumption rate models and gasoline consumption rate models are established. Then, according to the conversion formula of coal equivalent, these models are transformed into coal equivalent consumption models, which make gasoline consumption and electricity consumption comparable. Finally, the relationship between the EV penetration and the reduction of energy consumption is explored based on the simulation undertaken on the North Second Ring Road in Beijing. The results show that the coal equivalent consumption will decrease by about 5% with the increases of EV penetration by 10% and the maximum energy-saving effect can be achieved when the traffic volume is about 4000 pcu/h.
Goblet Cells and Mucin Related Gene Expression in Mice Infected with Eimeria papillata
Authors: Dkhil Mohamed A. , Delic Denis , Al-Quraishy Saleh
Published: December 2013

Coccidiosis causes considerable economic loss in the poultry industry. The current study aimed to investigate the response of goblet cells as well as the induced tissue damage during Eimeria papillata infection. Mice were infected with sporulated E. papillata oocytes. On day 5 postinfection, the fecal output was determined. Also, the jejunum was prepared for the histological, histochemical, and molecular studies. Our results revealed that the intestinal coccidian infection with E. papillata induced a marked goblet cell hypoplasia and depleted mucus secretion. Also, the infection was able to alter the jejunal architecture and increased the apoptotic cells inside the villi. In addition, the real‐time PCR results indicated that the inflammatory cytokines: TNF‐α, iNOS, IFN‐γ, and IL‐1β, were significantly upregulated. In contrast, the mRNA expression patterns of IL‐6 in response to E. papillata infection did not differ significantly between control and infected mice. Moreover, the mRNA expression of TLR4 was significantly upregulated, whereas the expression of MUC2 is significantly downregulated upon infection. Further studies are required to understand the regulatory mechanisms of goblet cells related genes.
Baseline LDL-C and Lp(a) Elevations Portend a High Risk of Coronary Revascularization in Patients after Stent Placement
Authors: Cai Anping , Li Liwen , Zhang Ying , Mo Yujin , Li Zhigen , Mai Weiyi , Zhou Yingling
Published: December 2013

Background and Aim. Incidence of coronary restenosis after stent placement is high. Our study was going to investigate whether Lp(a) elevation was potential for predicting coronary restenosis and whether the effects of Lp(a) elevation on coronary restenosis were dependent on LDL-C level.Methods and Results. Totally 832 participants eligible for stent placement were enrolled and followed up for monitoring clinical end points. Baseline characteristics were collected. According to the cut point of Lp(a), participants were divided into low Lp(a) group (Lp(a) < 30 mg/dL) and high Lp(a) group (Lp(a) ≥ 30 mg/dL). Furthermore, based on baseline LDL-C level, participants were divided into LDL-C < 1.8 mmol/L and ≥1.8 mmol/L subgroups. Clinical end points including major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, and coronary revascularization (CR) were compared. Patients in high Lp(a) groups more frequently presented with acute coronary syndrome and three vessel stenoses. In subgroup of LDL-C < 1.8 mmol/L, no significant differences of cardiovascular outcomes were found between low and high Lp(a) groups. While in the subgroup of LDL-C ≥ 1.8 mmol/L, incidences of MACE and CR were significantly higher in high Lp(a) group, and odds ratio for CR was 2.05.Conclusion. With baseline LDL-C and Lp(a) elevations, incidence of CR is significantly increased after stent placement.
Pseudotumor of the Hip due to Fungal Prosthetic Joint Infection
Authors: Artiaco Stefano , Ferrero Andrea , Boggio Frediano , Colzani Giulia
Published: December 2013

Pseudotumors associated with total hip arthroplasty have been associated with metal-on-metal and metal-on-polyethylene total hip arthroplasties due to a granulomatous foreign-body reaction to methyl methacrylate, polyethylene, or metal ion release, but they have not been related to prosthetic joint infections. In this paper, we report an unusual case ofCandida albicanstotal hip arthroplasty infection, causing a large inflammatory pseudotumor of the hip joint. Fungal periprosthetic joint infections are a rare clinical entity and difficult to diagnose, and a pseudotumor may be part of their clinical presentation. They should be suspected in immunodeficient host patients when clinical symptoms of prosthetic joint infections are observed.
Numerical and Experimental Study on a Model Draft Tube with Vortex Generators
Authors: Xiaoqing Tian , Yuan Zheng , Huachen Pan , Bin Sun
Published: December 2013

A model water turbine draft tube containing vortex generators (VG) was studied. Numerical simulations were performed to investigate 55 design variations of the vortex generators in a draft tube. After analyzing the shapes of streamlines and velocity distributions in the tube and comparing static pressure recovery coefficients (SPRC) in different design variations, an optimum vortex generator layout, which can raise SPRC of the draft tube by 4.8 percent, was found. To verify the effectiveness of the vortex generator application, a series of experiments were carried out. The results show that by choosing optimal vortex generator parameters, such as the installation type, installation position, blade-to-blade distance, and blade inclination angle, the draft tube equipped vortex generators can effectively raise their SPRC andworking stability.
Static and Dynamic Characteristics of Composite Conoidal Shell Roofs
Authors: Bakshi Kaustav , Chakravorty Dipankar
Published: December 2013

A thorough review of the existing literature reflects that forced vibration studies of laminated composite conoidal shells with complicated boundary conditions are missing. Hence, the present paper aims to fill the lacuna. A finite element code utilizing eight-noded doubly curved elements together with modified Sanders’ first approximation theory for thin shells is used to study the forced vibration behavior of moderately thin laminated composite conoidal shells subjected to three different uniformly distributed time-dependent forces. Newmark’s direct time integration method is used to solve the dynamic problem. Results obtained using the present code are compared with the values available in the literature, and a good agreement of the results confirms the accuracy of the proposed code. The transient responses of the laminated shell are studied meticulously for parametric variations like boundary conditions and stacking orders of cross and angle-ply laminates and are compared with bending responses of the shell to conclude on the necessity of the dynamic study.
A Novel Output Prediction Method in Production Management Based on Parameter Evaluation Using DHNN
Authors: Chang Jiantao , Qiu Yuanying , Kong Xianguang
Published: December 2013

Output prediction is one of the difficult issues in production management. To overcome this difficulty, a dynamic-improved multiple linear regression model based on parameter evaluation using discrete Hopfield neural networks (DHNN) is presented. First, a traditional multiple linear regression model is established; this model takes the factors in production lifecycle (not only one phase of the production) into account, such as manufacturing resources, manufacturing process, and product rejection rate, so it makes the output prediction be more accurate. Then a static-improved model is built using the backstepping method. Finally, we obtain the dynamic-improved model based on parameter evaluation using DHNN. These three models are applied to an aviation manufacturing enterprise based on the actual data, and the results of the output prediction show that the models have practical value.
Risk Factors for Asymptomatic Ventricular Dysfunction in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Garza-García Carlos , Rocío Sánchez-Santillán , Orea-Tejeda Arturo , Castillo-Martínez Lilia , Eduardo Canseco , López-Campos José Luis , Keirns-Davis Candace
Published: December 2013

Objective. The aim of the study was to describe echocardiographic abnormalities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, concurrent systemic comorbidities, rheumatologic clinical activity, serologic markers of rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory activity. Methods. In an observational, cross-sectional study, rheumatoid arthritis outpatients were included (n=105). Conventional transthoracic echocardiographic variables were compared between patients with arthritis and non-RA controls (n=41). For rheumatoid arthritis patients, articular activity and rheumatologic and inflammatory markers were obtained. Results. Ventricular dysfunction was found in 54.3% of the population: systolic (18.1%), diastolic (32.4%), and/or right (24.8%), with lower ejection fraction (P<0.0001). Pulmonary hypertension was found in 46.9%. Other echocardiographic findings included increased left atrial diameter (P=0.01), aortic diameter (P=0.01), ventricular septum (P=0.01), left ventricular posterior wall (P=0.013), and right ventricular (P=0.01) and atrial diameters compared to control subjects. Rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies levels were significantly elevated in cases with ventricular dysfunction. Angina and myocardial infarction, diabetes, and dyslipidemia were the main risk factors for ventricular dysfunction. Conclusions. Ventricular dysfunction is common in rheumatoid arthritis and associated with longer disease duration and increased serologic markers of rheumatoid arthritis. Screening for cardiac abnormalities should be considered in this kind of patients.
Dynamic Analysis of a Two-Language Competitive Model with Control Strategies
Authors: Nie Lin-Fei , Teng Zhi-Dong , Nieto Juan J. , Jung Il Hyo
Published: December 2013

The dynamic behavior of a two-language competitive model is analyzed systemically in this paper. By the linearization and the Bendixson-Dulac theorem on dynamical system, some sufficient conditions on the globally asymptotical stability of the trivial equilibria and the existence and the stability of the positive equilibrium of this model are presented. Nextly, in order to protect the endangered language, an optimal control problem relative to this model is explored. We derive some necessary conditions to solve the optimal control problem and present some numerical simulations using a Runge-Kutta fourth-order method. Finally, the languages competitive model is extended to this model assessing the impact of state-dependent pulse control strategy. Using the Poincaré map, differential inequality, and method of qualitative analysis, we prove the existence and stability of positive order-1 periodic solution for this control model. Numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the main results and the feasibility of state-dependent impulsive control strategy.
On the Stability of an Intermediate Coupled Ocean-Atmosphere Model
Authors: Zhao Tianxu , Zou Guang-an
Published: December 2013

The explicit finite difference scheme for solving an intermediate coupled ocean-atmosphere equations has been proposed and discussed. The discrete Fourier analysis within Gerschgorin circle theorem is applied to the stability analysis of this numerical model. The stability criterion that we obtained includes advection, rotation, dissipation, and friction terms, without any assumptions, which is also including the Courant-Friedrichs-Lewy (CFL) condition as a special case. Numerical sensitivity experiments are also carried out by varying the model parameters.
Secondary Aortic Dissection after Endoluminal Treatment of an Intramural Hematoma of the Thoracoabdominal Aorta: Endovascular Extension with Two Stent Grafts and Scarce Distal Landing
Authors: Kalmar Peter I. , Oberwalder Peter , Schedlbauer Peter , Steiner Jürgen , Portugaller Rupert H.
Published: December 2013

Secondary dissection in the descending aorta after endovascular therapy may demand subsequent interventional procedures. This can set a particularly significant challenge for the endovascular specialist. When implanting an aortic prosthesis, a sufficient contact between the covered segment and the healthy vessel wall is advisable. However, our case shows that, in individual cases, it is indeed efficient to place an aortic stent graft on top of the distal end of the dissection. This is proven by a three-year follow-up CT-angiography.
Chimonanthus nitensvar.salicifoliusAqueous Extract Protects against 5-Fluorouracil Induced Gastrointestinal Mucositis in a Mouse Model
Authors: Liu Zhenze , Xi Jun , Schröder Sven , Wang Weigang , Xie Tianpei , Wang Zhugang , Bao Shisan , Fei Jian
Published: December 2013

Gastrointestinal mucositis is a major side effect of chemotherapy, leading to life quality reduction in patients and interrupting the therapy of cancer.Chimonanthus nitensvar.salicifolius(CS) is a traditional Chinese herb for enteral disease. Considering the protective effect of CS on intestine, we hypothesize that the aqueous extract of CS could be benefcial to gastrointestinal mucositis. To verify this, a mouse mucositis model was induced by 5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu). Male Balb/C mice were treated with CS aqueous extract (5, 10, and 20 g/kg) or loperamide (0.2 mg/kg) intragastrically for 11 days, and the severity of mucositis was evaluated. Furthermore, the chemical compounds of CS aqueous extract were also analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Our results demonstrated that CS aqueous extract improved mice body weight, diarrhoea, and faecal blood, maintained the liver function and intestinal length, alleviated villus shortening, and suppressed the apoptosis and inflammation in small intestine. We concluded that CS could protect mice against 5-Fu induced mucositis by inhibiting apoptosis and inflammation, and this protective effect might be associated with the 3 flavonoids (rutin, quercetin, and kaempferol) identified in CS aqueous extract.
Nanotechnological Advances in Cutaneous Medicine
Authors: Jackson Jessica E. , Kopecki Zlatko , Cowin Allison J.
Published: December 2013

Wound healing is an area of unmet clinical need. Current treatments include occlusive dressings, hydrogels, and antimicrobials to control infection. However with the growing number of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria and the increase in population age and clinical obesity, it is becoming proportionally harder to treat wounds with the drugs that have worked in the past. There is an urgent requirement for efficient mechanism‐based treatments and more efficacious drug delivery systems. The potential of using nanoparticles as a drug delivery system has been identified and investigated. Nanoparticles have the ability to protect and carry drugs to specific targets in the body, enabling slower degradation, enhancing drug penetration, improving treatment efficacy with lower systemic absorption, and reducing unwanted side effects. Here we discuss the advantages and limitations of nanotechnology for the treatment of wounds and other cutaneous disorders.
Dynamic Optimization Model and Algorithm Design for Emergency Materials Dispatch
Authors: Dan Bingbing , Zhu Wanhong , Li Huabing , Sang Yangyang , Liu Yan
Published: December 2013

Emergency materials dispatch (EMD) is a typical dynamic vehicle routing problem (DVRP) and it concentrates on process strategy solving, which is different from the traditional static vehicle routing problem. Based on the characteristics of emergency materials dispatch, DVRP changed the EMD into a series of static problems in time axis. A mathematical multiobjective model is established, and the corresponding improved ant colony optimization algorithm is designed to solve the problem. Finally, a numeric example is provided to demonstrate the validity and feasibility of this proposed model and algorithm.
The Dark Side of Neutron Stars
Authors: Kouvaris Chris
Published: December 2013

We review severe constraints on asymmetric bosonic dark matter based on observations of old neutron stars. Under certain conditions, dark matter particles in the form of asymmetric bosonic WIMPs can be effectively trapped onto nearby neutron stars, where they can rapidly thermalize and concentrate in the core of the star. If some conditions are met, the WIMP population can collapse gravitationally and form a black hole that can eventually destroy the star. Based on the existence of old nearby neutron stars, we can exclude certain classes of dark matter candidates.
Hair-Normalized Cortisol Waking Response as a Novel Biomarker of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Activity following Acute Trauma: A Proof-of-Concept Study with Pilot Results
Authors: Walton David M. , MacDermid Joy C. , Russell Evan , Koren Gideon , Van Uum Stan
Published: December 2013

The mechanisms underlying the development of persistent posttraumatic pain and disability remain elusive. Recent evidence suggests that disordered stress-system pathway (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) activity may be responsible for the genesis and maintenance of long-term sensory and emotional problems. However, confidence in current evidence is limited by the necessarily retrospective collection of data. Hair cortisol can serve as a calendar of HPA axis activity going back several months prior to injury. The purposes of this pilot study were to determine the feasibility of using hair cortisol and hair-normalized salivary cortisol as biomarkers of distress following traumatic injuries of whiplash or distal radius fracture. Ten subjects provided complete data within 3 weeks of injury. Hair cortisol, cortisol waking response (CWR), and mean daily cortisol (MDC) were captured at inception, as were self-report indicators of pain, disability, and pain catastrophizing. Pain and disability were also captured 3 months after injury. Results indicate that cortisol waking response may be a useful biomarker of current distress as measured using the pain catastrophizing scale, especially when normalized to 3-month hair cortisol (r=0.77 raw, 0.93 normalized). Hair-normalized CWR may also have predictive capacity, correlating with 3-month self-reported disability at r=0.70. While promising, the results must be viewed in light of the small sample.
Stator Flux Observer for Induction Motor Based on Tracking Differentiator
Authors: Wang Dafang , Hu Zhenfei , Zhu Cheng , Zhou Chuanwei , Xie Yajing
Published: December 2013

Voltage model is commonly used in direct torque control (DTC) for flux observing of asynchronous motor. In order to improve low-speed and dynamic performance of the voltage model, a modified low-pass filter (LPF) algorithm is proposed. Firstly, the tracking differentiator is brought in to modulate the measured stator current, which suppresses the measurement noise, and then amplitude and phase compensation is made towards the stator electromotive force (EMF), after which the stator flux is obtained through a low-pass filter. This method can eliminate the dynamic error of flux filtered by LPF and improve low-speed performance. Experimental results demonstrate effectiveness and improved dynamic performance of such method.
Preliminary Orbit Determination of Artificial Satellites: A Vectorial Sixth-Order Approach
Authors: Andreu Carlos , Cambil Noelia , Cordero Alicia , Torregrosa Juan R.
Published: December 2013

A modified classical method for preliminary orbit determination is presented. In our proposal, the spread of the observations is considerably wider than in the original method, as well as the order of convergence of the iterative scheme involved. The numerical approach is made by using matricial weight functions, which will lead us to a class of iterative methods with a sixth local order of convergence. This is a process widely used in the design of iterative methods for solving nonlinear scalar equations, but rarely employed in vectorial cases. The numerical tests confirm the theoretical results, and the analysis of the dynamics of the problem shows the stability of the proposed schemes.
HIC1 Silencing in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Drives Progression through Misregulation of LCN2
Authors: Cheng Guangcun , Sun Xueqing , Wang Jinglong , Xiao Gang , Wang Xiumin , Fan Xuemei , Zu Lidong , Hao Mingang , Qu Qing , Mao Yan , Xue Yunjing , Wang Jianhua
Published: December 2013

The tumor suppressor gene HIC1 is frequently deleted or epigenetically silenced in human cancer, where its restoration may improve cancer prognosis. Here, we report results illuminating how HIC1 silencing alters effect or signals in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which are crucial for its pathogenesis. HIC1 expression was silenced only in TNBC compared with other molecular subtypes of breast cancer. Restoring HIC1 expression in TNBC cells reduced cell migration, invasion, and metastasis, whereas RNAi-mediated silencing of HIC1 in untransformed human breast cells increased their invasive capabilities. Mechanistic investigations identified the small-secreted protein lipocalin-2 (LCN2), as a critical downstream target of HIC1 in TNBC cells. Elevating LCN2 expression in cells expressing HIC1 partially rescued its suppression of cell invasion and metastasis. Notably, autocrine secretion of LCN2 induced by loss of HIC1 activated the AKT pathway through the neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin receptor, which is associated with TNBC progression. Taken together, our findings revealed that the HIC1–LCN2 axis may serve as a subtype-specific prognostic biomarker, providing an appealing candidate target for TNBC therapy. Cancer Res; 74(3); 862–72. ©2013 AACR.
The Diagnostic Value of Adiponectin Multimers in Healthy Men Undergoing Screening for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Medina Edward A. , Shi Xiaoyu , Grayson Marcia H. , Ankerst Donna P. , Livi Carolina B. , Medina Maria V. , Thompson Ian M. , Leach Robin J.
Published: December 2013

Background: Adiponectin has been reported to have a prohibitory effect on prostate cancer. The goal of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of adiponectin multimers for prostate cancer.

Methods: Total adiponectin, high- and low-molecular-weight (HMW, LMW), ratios of these measures, and body mass index (BMI) were compared in a prospective prostate cancer–screened cohort. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between adiponectin measures, their interaction with BMI, and risk of prostate cancer and Gleason score upgrading from biopsy to prostatectomy.

Results: A total of 228 prostate cancer cases and 239 controls were analyzed: 72 (31.6%) of the cancer cases were high grade (Gleason grade ≥7). Only percent HMW had a statistically significant relationship with prostate cancer (P = 0.04). Among normal and overweight men, the risk of prostate cancer increased as percent HMW increased [OR = 1.24 for a doubling of percent HMW, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.41–3.75 and OR = 1.81; 95% CI, 1.02–3.20, respectively], whereas among obese men, the risk of prostate cancer decreased (OR = 0.62; 95% CI, 0.32–1.18). Among 97 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy, there was no association between Gleason score upgrading and any of the adiponectin multimers.

Conclusion: This study was unable to confirm the utility of total adiponectin as a biomarker for prostate cancer risk. For the adiponectin multimers, only HMW showed increases with prostate cancer but not in all weight classes.

Impact: Although adiponectin may play a role in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer, our results do not support adiponectin multimers as biomarkers of detection. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(2); 309–15. ©2013 AACR.
Access to the Indian Health Service Care System Is Not Associated with Early Enrollment in Medicaid for American Indian and Alaska Natives with Cancer
Authors: Burnett-Hartman Andrea N. , Bensink Mark E. , Berry Kristin , Mummy David G. , Warren-Mears Victoria , Korenbrot Carol , Ramsey Scott D.
Published: December 2013

Background: For uninsured American Indians and Alaskan Natives (AIAN) diagnosed with cancer, prompt enrollment in Medicaid may speed access to treatment and improve survival. We hypothesized that AIANs who were eligible for the Indian Health Service Care System (IHSCS) at cancer diagnosis may be enrolled in Medicaid sooner than other AIANs.

Methods: Using Washington, Oregon, and California State Cancer Registries, we identified AIANs with a primary diagnosis of lung, breast, colorectal, cervical, ovarian, stomach, or prostate cancer between 2001 and 2007. Among AIANs enrolled in Medicaid within 365 days of a cancer diagnosis, we linked cancer registry records with Medicaid enrollment data and used a multivariate logistic regression model to compare the odds of delayed Medicaid enrollment between those with (n = 223) and without (n = 177) IHSCS eligibility.

Results: Among AIANs who enrolled in Medicaid during the year following their cancer diagnosis, approximately 32% enrolled >1 month following diagnosis. Comparing those without IHSCS eligibility to those with IHSCS eligibility, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) for moderately late Medicaid enrollment (between 1 and 6 months after diagnosis) relative to early Medicaid enrollment (≤1 month after diagnosis) was 1.10 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.62–1.95] and for very late Medicaid enrollment (>6 months to 12 months after diagnosis), OR was 1.14 (CI, 0.54–2.43).

Conclusion: IHSCS eligibility at the time of diagnosis does not seem to facilitate early Medicaid enrollment.

Impact: Because cancer survival rates in AIANs are among the lowest of any racial group, additional research is needed to identify factors that improve access to care in AIANs. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(2); 362–4. ©2013 AACR.
HIF-1α of Bone Marrow Endothelial Cells Implies Relapse and Drug Resistance in Patients with Multiple Myeloma and May Act as a Therapeutic Target
Authors: Ria Roberto , Catacchio Ivana , Berardi Simona , De Luisi Annunziata , Caivano Antonella , Piccoli Claudia , Ruggieri Vitalba , Frassanito Maria Antonia , Ribatti Domenico , Nico Beatrice , Annese Tiziana , Ruggieri Simona , Guarini Attilio , Minoia Carla , Ditonno Paolo , Angelucci Emanuele , Derudas Daniele , Moschetta Michele , Dammacco Franco , Vacca Angelo
Published: December 2013

Purpose: To investigate the role of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in angiogenesis and drug resistance of bone marrow endothelial cells of patients with multiple myeloma.

Experimental Design: HIF-1α mRNA and protein were evaluated in patients with multiple myeloma endothelial cells (MMEC) at diagnosis, at relapse after bortezomib- or lenalidomide-based therapies or on refractory phase to these drugs, at remission; in endothelial cells of patients with monoclonal gammapathies of undetermined significance (MGUS; MGECs), and of those with benign anemia (controls). The effects of HIF-1α inhibition by siRNA or panobinostat (an indirect HIF-1α inhibitor) on the expression of HIF-1α proangiogenic targets, on MMEC angiogenic activities in vitro and in vivo, and on overcoming MMEC resistance to bortezomib and lenalidomide were studied. The overall survival of the patients was also observed.

Results: Compared with the other endothelial cell types, only MMECs from 45% of relapsed/refractory patients showed a normoxic HIF-1α protein stabilization and activation that were induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS). The HIF-1α protein correlated with the expression of its proangiogenic targets. The HIF-1α inhibition by either siRNA or panobinostat impaired the MMECs angiogenesis–related functions both in vitro and in vivo and restored MMEC sensitivity to bortezomib and lenalidomide. Patients with MMECs expressing the HIF-1α protein had shorter overall survival.

Conclusions: The HIF-1α protein in MMECs may induce angiogenesis and resistance to bortezomib and lenalidomide and may be a plausible target for the antiangiogenic management of patients with well-defined relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. It may also have prognostic significance. Clin Cancer Res; 20(4); 847–58. ©2013 AACR.