bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seismic Performance Assessment of Offshore Reinforced Concrete Bridges Using the Force Analogy Method
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Hong-Nan , Li Gang
Published: April 2015

In this paper, the seismic performance of offshore reinforced concrete (RC) bridges during their life cycle periods is assessed by the pushover analysis based on the concept of the force analogy method (FAM). The governing equations and implementation process of the proposed pushover method are first derived. The material nonlinearity is modeled by the local plastic mechanism, which is capable of simulating the monotonic strength hardening and softening behaviors of RC piers. The chloride ions corrosion effect for the RC bridges located in coastal areas is considered by using the deterioration model for the mechanical property of reinforcement steel. Besides, structural stability against overturning is considered by incorporating the geometric nonlinearity with the FAM. Since the initial stiffness matrices remain constant through the computation process, the advantages of the FAM, such as high efficiency and stability, are retained. A numerical example is carried out to illustrate the process of seismic performance assessment for offshore RC bridges with the FAM.
Invariance conditions on substructures of division rings
Authors: Aaghabali M. , Amiri M. , Ariannejad M. , Madadi A.
Published: April 2015

Cartan–Brauer–Hua Theorem is a well-known theorem which states that if [Formula: see text] is a subdivision ring of a division ring [Formula: see text] which is invariant under all elements of [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text], then either [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] is contained in the center of [Formula: see text]. The invariance idea of this basic theorem is the main notion of this paper. We prove that if [Formula: see text] is a division ring with involution [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is a subspace of [Formula: see text] which is invariant under all symmetric elements of [Formula: see text], then either [Formula: see text] is contained in the center of [Formula: see text] or is a Lie ideal of [Formula: see text]. Also, we show that if [Formula: see text] is a self-invariant subfield of a non-commutative division ring [Formula: see text] with a nontrivial automorphism, then [Formula: see text] contains at least one non-central proper subfield of [Formula: see text].
The Drinfel’d double versus the Heisenberg double for Hom-Hopf algebras
Authors: Lu Daowei , Wang Shuanhong
Published: April 2015

Let ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) be a finite-dimensional Hom-Hopf algebra. In this paper we mainly construct the Drinfel’d double [Formula: see text] in the setting of Hom-Hopf algebras by two ways, one of which generalizes Majid’s bicrossproduct for Hopf algebras (see [S. Majid, Foundations of Quantum Group Theory (Cambridge University Press, 1995)]) and another one is to introduce the notion of dual pairs of Hom-Hopf algebras. Then we study the relation between the Drinfel’d double [Formula: see text] and Heisenberg double [Formula: see text], generalizing the main result in [J. H. Lu, On the Drinfel’d double and the Heisenberg double of a Hopf algebra, Duke Math. J. 74 (1994) 763–776]. The examples given in the paper are especially, not obtained from the usual Hopf algebras.
On the existence of Engel pairs in certain linear groups
Authors: Quek S. G. , Wong K. B. , Wong P. C.
Published: April 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be a group and [Formula: see text]. The 2-tuple [Formula: see text] is said to be an [Formula: see text]-Engel pair, [Formula: see text], if [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Let SL[Formula: see text] be the special linear group of degree [Formula: see text] over the field [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we show that given any field [Formula: see text], there is a field extension [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] such that SL[Formula: see text] has an [Formula: see text]-Engel pair for some integer [Formula: see text]. We will also show that SL[Formula: see text] has a [Formula: see text]-Engel pair if [Formula: see text] is a field of characteristic [Formula: see text].
The largest character degree and the Sylow subgroups of finite groups
Authors: Qian Guohua , Yang Yong
Published: April 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be a Sylow [Formula: see text]-subgroup and [Formula: see text] be the largest irreducible character degree of a finite nonabelian group [Formula: see text]. Then [Formula: see text].
Coset closure of a circulant S-ring and schurity problem
Authors: Evdokimov Sergei , Ponomarenko Ilya
Published: April 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite group. There is a natural Galois correspondence between the permutation groups containing [Formula: see text] as a regular subgroup, and the Schur rings (S-rings) over [Formula: see text]. The problem we deal with in the paper, is to characterize those S-rings that are closed under this correspondence, when the group [Formula: see text] is cyclic (the schurity problem for circulant S-rings). It is proved that up to a natural reduction, the characteristic property of such an S-ring is to be a certain algebraic fusion of its coset closure introduced and studied in the paper. Based on this characterization we show that the schurity problem is equivalent to the consistency of a modular linear system associated with a circulant S-ring under consideration. As a byproduct we show that a circulant S-ring is Galois closed if and only if so is its dual.
On the cofiniteness of Artinian local cohomology modules
Authors: Ghasemi Ghader , Bahmanpour Kamal , A’zami Jafar
Published: April 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be a commutative Noetherian local ring, which is a homomorphic image of a Gorenstein local ring and [Formula: see text] an ideal of [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be a nonzero finitely generated [Formula: see text]-module and [Formula: see text] be an integer. In this paper we show that, the [Formula: see text]-module [Formula: see text] is nonzero and [Formula: see text]-cofinite if and only if [Formula: see text]. Also, several applications of this result will be included.
The dual of a certain left quantum group
Authors: Iyer Uma N. , Taft Earl J.
Published: April 2015

The second author and his collaborators, Lauve and Rodriguez-Romo (see [A class of left quantum groups modeled after SL[Formula: see text]([Formula: see text]), J. Pure Appl. Algebra 208(3) (2007) 797–803; A left quantum group, J. Algebra 286 (2005) 154–160), have constructed left Hopf algebras which are not Hopf algebras modeled after [Formula: see text]. In particular, they constructed the left quantum group [Formula: see text], along with an epimorphism to the quantum group [Formula: see text], the latter being a Hopf algebra. The current work began as a search for a left Hopf algebra (which is not a Hopf algebra) containing the quantum group [Formula: see text], the latter being a Hopf algebra. The natural choice was to look for the dual of [Formula: see text]. We show that the Hopf dual of [Formula: see text] is equal to the Hopf dual of [Formula: see text], which is of independent interest. Thus the Hopf dual of [Formula: see text] is a Hopf algebra. The original search of a left Hopf algebra which is not a Hopf algebra, larger than [Formula: see text], is still open.
Finite groups and degrees of irreducible monomial characters
Authors: Pang Linna , Lu Jiakuan
Published: April 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite solvable group, let Irr[Formula: see text] be the set of all irreducible monomial characters of [Formula: see text] and let [Formula: see text] be a prime. We prove that if [Formula: see text] for every nonlinear [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] has a normal [Formula: see text]-complement, and if [Formula: see text] is relatively prime to [Formula: see text] for every [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] has a normal Sylow [Formula: see text]-subgroup.
Pego everywhere
Authors: Górka Przemysław , Kostrzewa Tomasz
Published: April 2015

In this note we show the general version of Pego’s theorem on locally compact abelian groups. The proof relies on the Pontryagin duality as well as on the Arzela–Ascoli theorem. As a byproduct, we get the characterization of relatively compact subsets of [Formula: see text] in terms of the Fourier transform.
A Study on Synthetic Jet Actuator Diaphragm
Authors: Deka Siddhartha Sankar , Gautam Rituraj , Singh Anoop , Kumar Gautam , Patowari Promod Kumar
Published: April 2015

A synthetic jet actuator (SJA) is one of the most widely used active flow control device which uses a vibrating diaphragm enclosed within a cavity to generate the fluid jet. The effectiveness of the actuator greatly depends upon the design of cavity and orifice and the diaphragm properties. A lot of emphasis is being laid on the cavity and orifice design, but very few literatures can be found dealing with the diaphragm of the SJA. Thus, in this paper a study of the SJA diaphragm actuated by piezoelectric ceramics of different geometries is being presented. Three different diaphragm materials — brass, poly-silicon and aluminum and five different geometries of the piezoelectric actuators — annular disc shaped actuator patch, annular shaped actuator, rectangular shaped actuator patch and circular disc shaped actuator patch and two cantilever arrangements are being considered. A static analysis is carried out and a comparison of the parameters which affect the performance of the SJA is done. Frequency response analysis is also carried out to obtain a better understanding of the diaphragm's structural characteristics. The results thus obtained show that an annular disc piezoelectric patch configuration shows the best behavior as compared to the other actuator configurations and is closely followed by circular disc piezoelectric patch configuration.
Multi Response Optimization of Process Parameters of Abrasive Water Jet Machining for Stainless Steel AISI 304 Using VIKOR Approach Coupled with Signal to Noise Ratio Methodology
Authors: Chaturvedi Vedansh , Singh Diksha
Published: April 2015

As the population of the world is continuously increasing, demand of the mechanical manufactured products is also increasing. Machining is the most important process in any mechanical manufacturing, and in machining two factors, i.e. material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (SR) are the most important responses. If the MRR is high, the product will get desired shape in minimum time so the production rate will be high, but we could not scarify with the surface finishing also because in close tolerance limit parts like in automobile industry, if the surface is rough exact fit cannot take place.

The term optimization is intensively related to the field of quality engineering. Abrasive water jet machining is an important unconventional machining, in order to obtain better response, i.e. material removal rate and surface roughness. Various process parameters of AWJM need to be observed and selected to improve machining characteristics. Better machining characteristics can be achieved by optimizing various process parameters of AWJM.

This study considers four process control parameters such as transverse speed, standoff distance, abrasive flow rate and water pressure. The response is taken to be material removal rate and surface roughness. The work piece for stainless steel AISI 304 material of size 15 cm × 10 cm × 2 cm is selected for experiments. Sixteen experimental runs (two trials for each experimental runs) were carried out for calculating MRR and SR and average value of these two trials have been taken for analysis. MRR is normalized according to higher-is-better and SR is normalized according to lower is better. The experiment data analysis is done and VIKOR index is found. Finally, the analysis of VIKOR index using S/N ratio is done and found the most significant factor for AWJM and predicted optimal parameters setting for higher material removal rate and lower surface roughness. Verification of the improvement in quality characteristics has been made through confirmation test with the predicted optimal parameters setting. It is found that the determined optimum combination of AWJM parameters gives the lowest VIKOR INDEX which shows the successful implementation of VIKOR Method coupled with S/N ratio in AWJM.
Lie algebra extensions of current algebras on S3
Authors: Kori Tosiaki , Imai Yuto
Published: April 2015

An affine Kac–Moody algebra is a central extension of the Lie algebra of smooth mappings from S1 to the complexification of a Lie algebra. In this paper, we shall introduce a central extension of the Lie algebra of smooth mappings from S3 to the quaternization of a Lie algebra and investigate its root space decomposition. We think this extension of current algebra might give a mathematical tool for four-dimensional conformal field theory as Kac–Moody algebras give it for two-dimensional conformal field theory.
The Burgess inequality and the least kth power non-residue
Authors: Treviño Enrique
Published: April 2015

The Burgess inequality is the best upper bound we have for incomplete character sums of Dirichlet characters. In 2006, Booker gave an explicit estimate for quadratic Dirichlet characters which he used to calculate the class number of a 32-digit discriminant. McGown used an explicit estimate to show that there are no norm-Euclidean Galois cubic fields with discriminant greater than 10140. Both of their explicit estimates are on restricted ranges. In this paper, we prove an explicit estimate that works for any range. We also improve McGown's estimates in a slightly narrower range, getting explicit estimates for characters of any order. We apply the estimates to the question of how large must a prime p be to ensure that there is a kth power non-residue less than p1/6.
Starting with gaps between k-free numbers
Authors: Filaseta M. , Graham S. , Trifonov O.
Published: April 2015

We survey various developments in Number Theory that were inspired by classical papers by Roth [On the gaps between squarefree numbers, J. London Math. Soc. 26 (1951) 263–268] and by Halberstam and Roth [On the gaps between consecutive k-free integres, J. London Math. Soc. 26 (1951) 268–273].
Post-Process Modification of CeOx/C-Supported PtCu Thin Film Catalyst and Its Catalytic Activity for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhao Yumeng , Yang Bin , Hao Xinyu , Zhao Zhijing
Published: April 2015

CeO x/ C supported PtCu thin film catalysts were prepared by ion beam sputtering (IBS) and subsequently annealed at 400°C under vacuum environment and electrochemically dealloyed. Scanning transmission electronic microscope (STEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) characterizations show that the surface of post-processed catalyst presents nanoporous structure and has a high root mean square roughness (RMS = 13.9nm). Electrochemical measurements indicate that the post-processed PtCu – CeO x/ C catalyst shows higher catalytic activity towards hydrogen evolution reaction than pure Pt / C . While inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) analysis displays that the platinum ( Pt ) loading of the post-processed PtCu – CeO x/ C is 0.1192mg/cm2, decreasing by 20% compare to pure Pt / C (0.1490mg/cm2). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis confirms that the surface of post-processed PtCu – CeO x/ C enrich Pt and analyzes the chemical valence of Pt element using depth profiling technology. It can be inferred that the enhancement in catalytic property is attributed to the combined action between geometric structure effect and electronic modification effect of Pt atoms from CeO x support.
Global exponential stability of cellular neural networks with multi-proportional delays
Authors: Zhou Liqun , Zhang Yanyan
Published: April 2015

In this paper, a class of cellular neural networks (CNNs) with multi-proportional delays is studied. The nonlinear transformation yi(t) = xi( e t) transforms a class of CNNs with multi-proportional delays into a class of CNNs with multi-constant delays and time-varying coefficients. By applying Brouwer fixed point theorem and constructing the delay differential inequality, several delay-independent and delay-dependent sufficient conditions are derived for ensuring the existence, uniqueness and global exponential stability of equilibrium of the system and the exponentially convergent rate is estimated. And several examples and their simulations are given to illustrate the effectiveness of obtained results.
Visual function alterations in essential tremor: A case report
Authors: Piñero David P. , Monllor Begoña , Moncho Vicenta , Camps Vicent J. , de Fez Dolores
Published: April 2015

Our purpose is to report alterations in contrast sensitivity function (CSF) and in the magno, parvo and koniocellular visual pathways by means of a multichannel perimeter in case of an essential tremor (ET). A complete evaluation of the visual function was performed in a 69-year old patient, including the analysis of the chromatic discrimination by the Fansworth–Munsell 100 hue test, the measurement of the CSF by the CSV-1000E test, and the detection of potential alteration patterns in the magno, parvo and koniocellular visual pathways by means of a multichannel perimeter. Visual acuity and intraocular pressure (IOP) were within the ranges of normality in both eyes. No abnormalities were detected in the fundoscopic examination and in the optical coherence tomography (OCT) exam. The results of the color vision examination were also within the ranges of normality. A significant decrease in the achromatic CSFs for right eye (RE) and left eye (LE) was detected for all spatial frequencies. The statistical global values provided by the multichannel perimeter confirms that there were significant absolute sensitivity losses compared to the normal pattern in RE. In the LE, only a statistically significant decrease in sensitivity was detected for the blue-yellow (BY) channel. The pattern standard deviation (PSD) values obtained in our patient indicated that there were significant localized losses compared to the normality pattern in the achromatic channel of the RE and in the red-green (RG) channel of the LE. Some color vision alterations may be present in ET that cannot be detected with conventional color vision tests, such as the FM 100 Hue.
Data fusion and simulation-based planning and control in cyber physical system for digital assembly of aeroplane
Authors: Li Hui , Zhang Linxuan , Xiao Tianyuan , Dong Jietao
Published: April 2015

This paper introduces a CPS application for intelligent aeroplane assembly. At first, the CPS structure is presented, which acquires the characteristics of general CPS and enables "simulation-based planning and control" to achieve high level intelligent assembly. Then the paper puts forward data fusion estimation algorithm under synchronous and asynchronous sampling, respectively. The experiment shows that global optimal distributed fusion estimation under synchronized sampling proves to be closer to the actual value compared with ordinary weighted estimation, and multi-scale distributed fusion estimation algorithm of wavelet under asynchronous sampling does not need time registration, it can also directly link to data, and the error is smaller. This paper presents hybrid control strategy under the circumstance of joint action of the inner and outer loop to address the problems caused by the less controllable feature of the parallel mechanism when undertaking online process simulation and control. A robust adaptive sliding mode controller is designed based on disturbance observer to restrain inner interference and maintain robustness. At the same time, an outer collaborative trajectory planning is also designed. All the experiment results show the feasibility of above proposed methods.
The Role of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Breast Cancer Progression and Metastasis
Authors: Schweizer Riccardo , Tsuji Wakako , Gorantla Vijay S. , Marra Kacey G. , Rubin J. Peter , Plock Jan A.
Published: April 2015

Conventional breast cancer extirpation involves resection of parts of or the whole gland, resulting in asymmetry and disfiguration. Given the unsatisfactory aesthetic outcomes, patients often desire postmastectomy reconstructive procedures. Autologous fat grafting has been proposed for reconstructive purposes for decades to restore form and anatomy after mastectomy. Fat has the inherent advantage of being autologous tissue and the most natural-appearing filler, but given its inconsistent engraftment and retention rates, it lacks reliability. Implementation of autologous fat grafts with cellular adjuncts, such as multipotent adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), has shown promising results. However, it is pertinent and critical to question whether these cells could promote any residual tumor cells to proliferate, differentiate, or metastasize or even inducede novocarcinogenesis. Thus far, preclinical and clinical study findings are discordant. A trend towards potential promotion of both breast cancer growth and invasion by ADSCs found in basic science studies was indeed not confirmed in clinical trials. Whether experimental findings eventually correlate with or will be predictive of clinical outcomes remains unclear. Herein, we aimed to concisely review current experimental findings on the interaction of mesenchymal stem cells and breast cancer, mainly focusing on ADSCs as a promising tool for regenerative medicine, and discuss the implications in clinical translation.
Influence of Salts on Electrospinning of Aqueous and Nonaqueous Polymer Solutions
Authors: Yalcinkaya Fatma , Yalcinkaya Baturalp , Jirsak Oldrich
Published: April 2015

A roller electrospinning system was used to produce nanofibres by using different solution systems. Although the process of electrospinning has been known for over half a century, knowledge about spinning behaviour is still lacking. In this work, we investigated the effects of salt for two solution systems on spinning performance, fibre diameter, and web structure. Polyurethane (PU) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) were used as polymer, and tetraethylammonium bromide and lithium chloride were used as salt. Both polymer and salt concentrations had a noteworthy influence on the spinning performance, morphology, and diameter of the nanofibres. Results indicated that adding salt increased the spinnability of PU. Salt created complex bonding with dimethylformamide solvent and PU polymer. Salt added to PEO solution decreased the spinning performance of fibres while creating thin nanofibres, as explained by the leaky dielectric model.
Late Corrective Arthrodesis in Nonplantigrade Diabetic Charcot Midfoot Disease Is Associated with High Complication and Reoperation Rates
Authors: Eschler Anica , Gradl Georg , Wussow Annekatrin , Mittlmeier Thomas
Published: April 2015

Introduction. Charcot arthropathy may lead to a loss of osteoligamentous foot architecture and consequently loss of the plantigrade alignment. In this series of patients a technique of internal corrective arthrodesis with maximum fixation strength was provided in order to lower complication rates.Materials/Methods. 21 feet with severe nonplantigrade diabetic Charcot deformity Eichenholtz stages II/III (Sanders/Frykberg II/III/IV) and reconstructive arthrodesis with medial and additional lateral column support were retrospectively enrolled. Follow-up averaged 4.0 years and included a clinical (AOFAS score/PSS), radiological, and complication analysis.Results. A mean of 2.4 complications/foot occurred, of which 1.5/foot had to be solved surgically. 76% of feet suffered from soft tissue complications; 43% suffered hardware-associated complications. Feet with only 2 out of 5 high risk criteria according to Pinzur showed significantly lower complication counts. Radiographs revealed a correct restoration of all foot axes postoperatively with superior fixation strength medially.Conclusion. Late corrective arthrodesis with medial and lateral column stabilization in the nonplantigrade stages of neuroosteoarthropathy can provide reasonable reconstruction of the foot alignment. Nonetheless, overall complication/reoperation rates were high. With separation into low/high risk criteria a helpful guide in treatment choice is provided. This trial is registered with German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) under numberDRKS00007537.
Vitamin D Status in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus during Pregnancy and Postpartum
Authors: Pleskačová Anna , Bartáková Vendula , Pácal Lukáš , Kuricová Katarína , Bělobrádková Jana , Tomandl Josef , Kaňková Kateřina
Published: April 2015

Of many vitamin D extraskeletal functions, its modulatory role in insulin secretion and action is especially relevant for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The aims of the present study were to determine midgestational and early postpartum vitamin D status in pregnant women with and without GDM and to describe the relationship between midgestational and postpartum vitamin D status and parallel changes of glucose tolerance. A total of 76 pregnant women (47 GDM and 29 healthy controls) were included in the study. Plasma levels of 25(OH)D were measured using an enzyme immunoassay. Vitamin D was not significantly decreased in GDM compared to controls during pregnancy; however, both groups of pregnant women exhibited high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency. Prevalence of postpartum 25(OH)D deficiency in post-GDM women remained significantly higher and their postpartum 25(OH)D levels were significantly lower compared to non-GDM counterparts. Finally, based on the oGTT repeated early postpartum persistent glucose abnormality was ascertained in 15% of post-GDM women; however, neither midgestational nor postpartum 25(OH)D levels significantly differed between subjects with GDM history and persistent postpartum glucose intolerance and those with normal glucose tolerance after delivery.
Fabrication and Characterization of Cellulose Acetate/Montmorillonite Composite Nanofibers by Electrospinning
Authors: Kim Se Wook , Han Seong Ok , Sim I Na , Cheon Ja Young , Park Won Ho
Published: April 2015

Nanofibers composed of cellulose acetate (CA) and montmorillonite (MMT) were prepared by electrospinning method. MMT was first dispersed in water and mixed with an acetic acid solution of CA. The viscosity and conductivity of the CA/MMT solutions with different MMT contents were measured to compare with those of the CA solution. The CA/MMT solutions were electrospun to fabricate the CA/MMT composite nanofibers. The morphology, thermal stability, and crystalline and mechanical properties of the composite nanofibers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and tensile test. The average diameters of the CA/MMT composite nanofibers obtained by electrospinning 18 wt% CA/MMT solutions in a mixed acetic acid/water (75/25, w/w) solvent ranged from 150~350 nm. The nanofiber diameter decreased with increasing MMT content. TEM indicated the coexistence of CA nanofibers. The CA/MMT composite nanofibers showed improved tensile strength compared to the CA nanofiber due to the physical protective barriers of the silicate clay layers. MMT could be incorporated into the CA nanofibers resulting in about 400% improvement in tensile strength for the CA sample containing 5 wt% MMT.
Proteomics in Cancer Biomarkers Discovery: Challenges and Applications
Authors: Sallam Reem M.
Published: April 2015

With the introduction of recent high-throughput technologies to various fields of science and medicine, it is becoming clear that obtaining large amounts of data is no longer a problem in modern research laboratories. However, coherent study designs, optimal conditions for obtaining high-quality data, and compelling interpretation, in accordance with the evidence-based systems biology, are critical factors in ensuring the emergence of good science out of these recent technologies. This review focuses on the proteomics field and its new perspectives on cancer research. Cornerstone publications that have tremendously helped scientists and clinicians to better understand cancer pathogenesis; to discover novel diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarkers; and to suggest novel therapeutic targets will be presented. The author of this review aims at presenting some of the relevant literature data that helped as a step forward in bridging the gap between bench work results and bedside potentials. Undeniably, this review cannot include all the work that is being produced by expert research groups all over the world.
Vulvar Metastasis from Bladder Cancer
Authors: Aoun Fouad , El Rassy Elie , Kourie Hampig Raphael , Hawaux Eric , van Velthoven Roland
Published: April 2015

Vulvar metastasis of urothelial carcinoma of the bladder is a very rare entity; few cases are reported in the English literature. In this paper, we describe the clinical and pathological characteristics, evolution, and treatment of a patient with vulvar metastasis of urothelial carcinoma of the bladder followed by a brief review of the reported cases in the literature.
Analysis of Serum MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarker in Coronary Bifurcation Lesion
Authors: Liu Yan , Chen Shaoliang , Zhang Junjie , Shan Shoujie , Chen Liang , Wang Rong , Kan Jing , Xu Tian
Published: April 2015

Recent evidence suggests that cell-derived circulating miRNAs may serve as the biomarkers of cardiovascular diseases. However, no study has investigated the potential of circulating miRNAs as biomarker for coronary bifurcation lesion. In this study, we aimed to characterize the miRNA profiles that could distinguish coronary bifurcation lesion and identify potential miRNAs as biomarkers of coronary bifurcation lesion. We employed miRNA microarray to screen serum miRNAs profiles of patients with coronary bifurcation lesion and coronary nonbifurcation lesions. We identified 197 miRNAs differentially expressed, including 150 miRNAs upregulated and 47 miRNAs downregulated. We chose 3 miRNAs with significant differences for further testing in 200 patients. RT-PCR analysis of serum samples confirmed that miR30d was upregulated and miR1246 was downregulated in the serum of coronary bifurcation lesion patients compared with nonbifurcation lesion patients. Our findings suggest that these miRNAs may have a role in the pathogenesis of coronary bifurcation lesion and may represent novel biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of coronary bifurcation lesion.
miR-103 Regulates Oxidative Stress by Targeting the BCL2/Adenovirus E1B 19 kDa Interacting Protein 3 in HUVECs
Authors: Xu Mao-Chun , Gao Xiu-Fang , Ruan Changwu , Ge Zhi-Ru , Lu Ji-De , Zhang Jian-Jun , Zhang Yu , Wang Lu , Shi Hai-Ming
Published: April 2015

Oxidative stress plays a critical role in cardiovascular diseases. Salidroside, a glycoside fromRhodiola rosea, has been used as an antioxidative therapy for oxidative injury in cardiac diseases. However, the mechanism underlying its antioxidant effect needs to be elucidated. Treatment of HUVECs with H2O2significantly decreased the expression of miR-103 in a dose- and time-dependent manner, whereas pretreatment with salidroside significantly inhibited this decrease. Subsequent analysis showed that overexpression of miR-103 abrogated cell activity and ROS production induced by H2O2. Bcl2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa interacting protein 3 (BNIP3) was determined to be a novel miR-103 target in HUVECs. Interestingly, H2O2treatment upregulated BNIP3 expression; in turn, this effect was inhibited by pretreatment with salidroside. Further studies confirmed that the knockdown of BNIP3 enhanced cell activity and suppressed the ROS production induced by H2O2. These results demonstrated for the first time that salidroside protects HUVECs in part by upregulating the expression of miR-103, which mediates BNIP3 downregulation and plays an important role in the cytoprotective actions.
Transformation of Holes Emission Paths under Negative Bias Temperature Stress in Deeply Scaled pMOSFETs
Authors: Liao Yiming , Ji Xiaoli , Guo Qiang , Yan Feng
Published: April 2015

We examine the impact of negative bias temperature (NBT) stress on the fluctuations inIDandIGfor deeply scaled pMOSFETs and find that the relative high NBT stress triggersIG-RTN andID-step. Through the analysis of the field dependence of emission constant and the carrier separation measurement, it is found that under the relative high NBT stress some traps keep charged state for very long time, as observing step-like behaviors inID, while other traps emit charged holes to the gate side through TAT process, which originate bothID-step and ID-RTN.
Critical Appraisal of International Guidelines for the Management of Diabetic Neuropathy: Is There Global Agreement in the Internet Era?
Authors: Sun Mingfang , Zhang Min , Shen Jing , Yan Juping , Zhou Bo
Published: April 2015

Purpose.The management of diabetic neuropathy (DN) can be challenging. There exist many guidelines for DN management, but the quality of these guidelines has not been systematically evaluated or compared. The objective of our study was to assess the quality of these guidelines as a step toward their future optimization, the development of international guidelines, and, ultimately, the improvement of the care process.Methods.Relevant data were selected to identify international guidelines. The Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) tool was used to evaluate the quality of the selected guidelines. In addition, the reviewers summarized and compared all of the recommendations from the included guidelines for DN’s management.Results.Thirteen guidelines were included after the selection process. According to AGREE II, few guidelines scored well for all three aspects of DN management. Detailed comparisons revealed that these guidelines provide inconsistent recommendations, making it difficult for diabetes clinicians to choose appropriate guideline.Conclusions.The quality of most guidelines for the management of DN should be improved. Further studies should concentrate on developing internationally accepted and evidence-based guidelines that could be used for clinical decision making to improve patient care.
Performance Analysis of Multiscale Entropy for the Assessment of ECG Signal Quality
Authors: Zhang Yatao , Wei Shoushui , Long Yutao , Liu Chengyu
Published: April 2015

This study explored the performance of multiscale entropy (MSE) for the assessment of mobile ECG signal quality, aiming to provide a reasonable application guideline. Firstly, the MSE for the typical noises, that is, high frequency (HF) noise, low frequency (LF) noise, and power-line (PL) noise, was analyzed. The sensitivity of MSE to the signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the synthetic artificial ECG plus different noises was further investigated. The results showed that the MSE values could reflect content level of various noises contained in the ECG signals. For the synthetic ECG plus LF noise, the MSE was sensitive to SNR within higher range of scale factor. However, for the synthetic ECG plus HF noise, the MSE was sensitive to SNR within lower range of scale factor. Thus, a recommended scale factor range within 5 to 10 was given. Finally, the results were verified on the real ECG signals, which were derived from MIT-BIH Arrhythmia Database and Noise Stress Test Database. In all, MSE could effectively assess the noise level on the real ECG signals, and this study provided a valuable reference for applying MSE method to the practical signal quality assessment of mobile ECG.
Lipoleiomyoma of the Uterus and Primary Ovarian Leiomyoma in a Postmenopausal Woman: Two Rare Entities in the Same Individual
Authors: Kelekci Sefa , Eris Serenat , Demirel Emine , Aydogmus Serpil , Ekinci Nese
Published: April 2015

Uterine lipoleiomyomas are rare benign tumours that are composed of various mixtures of smooth muscle and mature fat tissue. Leiomyomas, which arise primarily in the ovary, are extremely rare tumours that account for 0.5–1% of all benign ovarian tumours. To the best of our knowledge, we present the first case of an ovarian leiomyoma coexisting with a uterine lipoleiomyoma in the postmenopausal period. A 59-year-old, gravida 4, para 3, postmenopausal woman exhibited pelvic discomfort and increased frequency of micturition. A pelvic examination revealed a solid, tender mass on the left side that could not be clearly separated from the uterus. She underwent a laparotomy with an initial diagnosis of a left ovarian mass. She had previously undergone a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. A histopathological examination revealed a uterine lipoleiomyoma, composed of variable amounts of smooth muscle cells and mature adipocytes and a right ovarian leiomyoma composed of interlacing bundles and fascicles of spindle cells. The coexistence of these two rare entities in the same individual may represent a common pathway as a stimulating agent. This case may help to clarify the pathogenesis of these lesions.
The Relevance of the Renin-Angiotensin System in the Development of Drugs to Combat Preeclampsia
Authors: Ueki Norikazu , Takeda Satoru , Koya Daisuke , Kanasaki Keizo
Published: April 2015

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder that occurs during pregnancy. It has an unknown etiology and affects approximately 5–8% of pregnancies worldwide. The pathophysiology of preeclampsia is not yet known, and preeclampsia has been called “a disease of theories.” The central symptom of preeclampsia is hypertension. However, the etiology of the hypertension is unknown. In this review, we analyze the molecular mechanisms of preeclampsia with a particular focus on the pathogenesis of the hypertension in preeclampsia and its association with the renin-angiotensin system. In addition, we propose potential alternative strategies to target the renin-angiotensin system, which is enhanced during pregnancy.
Pitfalls in Suspected Acute Aortic Syndrome: Impact of Appropriate and If Required Repeated Imaging
Authors: Meier C. , Lichtenberg M. , Lebiedz P. , Breuckmann F.
Published: April 2015

The incidence of acute aortic syndrome is low, but the spontaneous course is often life-threatening. Adequate ECG-gated imaging is fundamental within the diagnostic workup. We here report a case of a 53-year-old man presenting with atypical chest pain, slight increase of D dimers at admission, and extended diameter of the ascending aorta accompanied by mild aortic regurgitation. Interpretation of an initial contrast-enhanced computed tomography was false negative due to inadequate gating and motion artifacts, thereby judging a tiny contrast signal in the left anterior quadrant of the ascending aorta as a pseudointimal flap. By hazard, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an ulcer-like lesion superior to the aortic root, leading to aortic surgery at the last moment. As sensitivity of imaging is not 100%, this example underlines that second imaging studies might be necessary if the first imaging is negative, but the clinical suspicion still remains high.
Evaluation of Service Life of Polystyrene in Tropical Marine Environment by Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Song Dongdong , Gao Jin , Lu Lin , Li Xiaogang
Published: April 2015

To predict the service life of polystyrene (PS) under an aggressive environment, the nondimensional expressionZwas established from a data set of multiple properties of PS by principal component analysis (PCA). In this study, PS specimens were exposed to the tropical environment on Xisha Islands in China for two years. Chromatic aberration, gloss, tensile strength, elongation at break, flexural strength, and impact strength were tested to evaluate the aging behavior of PS. Based on different needs of industries, each of the multiple properties could be used to evaluate the service life of PS. However, selecting a single performance variation will inevitably hide some information about the entire aging process. Therefore, finding a comprehensive measure representing the overall aging performance of PS can be highly significant. Herein, PCA was applied to obtain a specific property (Z) which can represent all properties of PS.Zof PS degradation showed a slight decrease for the initial two months of exposure after which it increased rapidly in the next eight months. Subsequently, a slower increase ofZvalue was observed. From the three different stages shown asZvalue increases, three stages have been identified for PS service life.
Secondary Subacromial Impingement after Valgus Closing-Wedge Osteotomy for Proximal Humerus Varus
Authors: Sano Hirotaka , Kamimura Masayuki , Oizumi Akira , Isefuku Shuji
Published: April 2015

A 31-year-old construction worker had been suffering from both the motion pain and the restriction of elevation in his right shoulder due to severe varus deformity of humeral neck, which occurred after proximal humeral fracture. The angle for shoulder flexion and abduction was restricted to 50 and 80 degrees, respectively. Valgus closing-wedge osteotomy followed by the internal fixation using a locking plate was carried out at 12 months after injury. Postoperatively, the head-shaft angle of the humerus improved from 65 to 138 degrees. Active flexion and abduction angles improved from 80 to 135 degrees and from 50 to 135 degrees, respectively. However, the patient complained from a sharp pain with a clicking sound during shoulder abduction even after removal of the locking plate. Since subacromial steroid injection temporarily relieved his shoulder pain, we assumed that the secondary subacromial impingement was provoked after osteotomy. Thus, arthroscopic subacromial decompression was carried out at 27 months after the initial operation, which finally relieved his symptoms. In the valgus closing-wedge osteotomy, surgeons should pay attention to the condition of subacromial space to avoid causing the secondary subacromial impingement.
Omics-Based Identification of Biomarkers for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Janvilisri Tavan
Published: April 2015

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a head and neck cancer that is highly found in distinct geographic areas, such as Southeast Asia. The management of NPC remains burdensome as the prognosis is poor due to the late presentation of the disease and the complex nature of NPC pathogenesis. Therefore, it is necessary to find effective molecular markers for early detection and therapeutic measure of NPC. In this paper, the discovery of molecular biomarker for NPC through the emerging omics technologies including genomics, miRNA-omics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics will be extensively reviewed. These markers have been shown to play roles in various cellular pathways in NPC progression. The knowledge on their function will help us understand in more detail the complexity in tumor biology, leading to the better strategies for early detection, outcome prediction, detection of disease recurrence, and therapeutic approach.
Effect of Myricetin, Pyrogallol, and Phloroglucinol on Yeast Resistance to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Mendes Vanda , Vilaça Rita , de Freitas Victor , Ferreira Pedro Moradas , Mateus Nuno , Costa Vítor
Published: April 2015

The health beneficial effects of dietary polyphenols have been attributed to their intrinsic antioxidant activity, which depends on the structure of the compound and number of hydroxyl groups. In this study, the protective effects of pyrogallol, phloroglucinol, and myricetin on the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaewere investigated. Pyrogallol and myricetin, which have a pyrogallol structure in the B ring, increased H2O2resistance associated with a reduction in intracellular oxidation and protein carbonylation, whereas phloroglucinol did not exert protective effects. The acquisition of oxidative stress resistance in cells pretreated with pyrogallol and myricetin was not associated with an induction of endogenous antioxidant defences as assessed by the analysis of superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. However, myricetin, which provided greater stress resistance, prevented H2O2-induced glutathione oxidation. Moreover, myricetin increased the chronological lifespan of yeast lacking the mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (Sod2p), which exhibited a premature aging phenotype and oxidative stress sensitivity. These findings show that the presence of hydroxyl groups in the ortho position of the B ring in pyrogallol and myricetin contributes to the antioxidant protection afforded by these compounds. In addition, myricetin may alleviate aging-induced oxidative stress, particularly when redox homeostasis is compromised due to downregulation of endogenous defences present in mitochondria.
Improved Algorithm for Analysis of DNA Sequences Using Multiresolution Transformation
Authors: Inbamalar T. M. , Sivakumar R.
Published: April 2015

Bioinformatics and genomic signal processing use computational techniques to solve various biological problems. They aim to study the information allied with genetic materials such as the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), the ribonucleic acid (RNA), and the proteins. Fast and precise identification of the protein coding regions in DNA sequence is one of the most important tasks in analysis. Existing digital signal processing (DSP) methods provide less accurate and computationally complex solution with greater background noise. Hence, improvements in accuracy, computational complexity, and reduction in background noise are essential in identification of the protein coding regions in the DNA sequences. In this paper, a new DSP based method is introduced to detect the protein coding regions in DNA sequences. Here, the DNA sequences are converted into numeric sequences using electron ion interaction potential (EIIP) representation. Then discrete wavelet transformation is taken. Absolute value of the energy is found followed by proper threshold. The test is conducted using the data bases available in the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) site. The comparative analysis is done and it ensures the efficiency of the proposed system.
Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Transplantation May Enhance or Inhibit 4T1 Murine Breast Adenocarcinoma through Different Approaches
Authors: Jazedje T. , Ribeiro A. L. , Pellati M. , de Siqueira Bueno H. M. , Nagata G. , Trierveiler M. , Rodrigues E. G. , Zatz M.
Published: April 2015

The use of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSCs) aiming to treat cancer has shown very contradictory results. In an attempt to clarify the contradictory results reported in the literature and the possible role of human fallopian tube Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (htMSCs) against breast cancer, the aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effect of htMSCs in murine mammary adenocarcinoma using two different approaches: (1) coinjections of htMSCs and 4T1 murine tumor cell lineage and (2) injections of htMSCs in mice at the initial stage of mammary adenocarcinoma development. Coinjected animals had a more severe course of the disease and a reduced survival, while tumor-bearing animals treated with 2 intraperitoneal injections of 106htMSCs showed significantly reduced tumor growth and increased lifespan as compared with control animals. Coculture of htMSCs and 4T1 tumor cells revealed an increase in IL-8 and MCP-1 and decreased VEGF production. For the first time, we show that MSCs isolated from a single source and donor when injected in the same animal model and tumor can lead to opposite results depending on the experimental protocol. Also, our results demonstrated that htMSCs can have an inhibitory effect on the development of murine mammary adenocarcinoma.