bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OPTIMIZATION AND DESIGN OF 2D HONEYCOMB LATTICE PHOTONIC CRYSTAL MODULATED BY LIQUID CRYSTALS
Authors: GUO CAIHONG , ZHENG JIHONG , GUI KUN , ZHANG MENGHUA , ZHUANG SONGLIN
Published: November 2013

Photonic crystals (PCs) with infiltrating liquid crystals (LCs) have many potential applications because of their ability to continuously modulate the band-gaps. Using the plane-wave expansion method (PWM), we simulate the band-gap distribution of 2D honeycomb lattice PC with different pillar structures (circle, hexagonal and square pillar) and with different filling ratios, considering both when the LC is used as filling pillar material and semiconductors ( Si , Ge ) are used in the substrate, and when the semiconductors ( Si , Ge ) are pillar material and the LC is the substrate. Results show that unlike LC-based triangle lattice PC, optimized honeycomb lattice PC has the ability to generate absolute photonic band-gaps for fabricating optical switches. We provide optimization parameters for LC infiltrating honeycomb lattice PC structure based on simulation results and analysis.
VALIDATION OF A NOVEL ULTRA-THIN SILICON STRIP DETECTOR FOR HADRON THERAPY BEAM MONITORING
Authors: BOUTERFA MOHAMED , FLANDRE DENIS
Published: November 2013

For precise treatment purposes in hadron therapy, the beam has to be monitored in real time without being degraded. For the first time, silicon strip detectors have been fabricated over an area as large as 20.25 cm2 with an ultra low thickness of 20 or 10 μm in order to reduce the material budget and hence the beam degradation provoked by the sensor. In this work, we describe the novel design and its fabrication process. Afterwards, we present the first electrical characterizations compared to the application requirements. The novel devices and their fabrication process are validated through measurements and simulations. A low strip-to-strip behavior variation is demonstrated as well as a very good interstrip insulation and a very low leakage current. These novel fabricated devices constitute a very promising technology for future hadron therapy beam monitoring.
SURFACE DISCHARGE SIMULATION IN SF6 AND N2 MIXTURES WITH A PLASMACHEMICAL MODEL
Authors: SIMA WENXIA , SHI JIAN , YANG QING
Published: November 2013

SF 6– N 2 mixtures are becoming the best alternative for SF 6 in electrical systems. Plasmachemical modeling and the results of a positive surface streamer are reported in this paper. The model exhibits excellent streamer transition from the gas gap to the insulator surface. The surface charge accumulations on the dielectric insulators are compared and discussed. Results showed that the density of negative ions is much larger than that of electrons in the surface streamer channel. The dominant [Formula: see text] and less pronounced [Formula: see text] constitute the main negative ions in the electronegative surface streamer because of the strong electron attachments to SF 6 molecules.
2 MeV PROTON IRRADIATION EFFECTS ON ZnO SINGLE CRYSTAL
Authors: SECHOGELA T. , KOTSEDI L. , NKOSI M. , SANDT C. , MADJOE R. , PRZYBYLOWICZ W. , BHARUTH-RAM K. , MAAZA M.
Published: November 2013

Melt grown ZnO single crystal was irradiated with varying fluence of 2 MeV proton beam in the range of 1 × 1016 H +/cm2 to 5 × 1017 H +/cm2. The irradiated spots exhibited varying degree of discoloration due to the irradiation indicating surface and volume defects. The surface roughness of the irradiated spots was measured using atomic force microscopy indicating surface modification of the sample. The extent of the damage on the ZnO single crystal from radiation was assessed using Raman spectroscopy. The emergence of the A1( LO ) band at 579 cm-1 pointed to the significant surface alteration in the ZnO crystal due to proton bombardment.
STRUCTURAL AND MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF THIN FILM OF IRON NITRIDE
Authors: KAYANI ZOHRA NAZIR , RIAZ SAIRA , NASEEM SHAHZAD
Published: November 2013

The nano-crystalline iron nitride films with a mixture of γ- Fe 4 N , ε Fe 3 N and α Fe 2 N phases were synthesized on copper substrate by sol–gel technology. The structure, morphology and magnetic properties of the samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometer. The films are ferromagnetic at room temperature. Magnetic properties such as coercive forces and saturation magnetization were found to be 398 Oestered and 32.92 emu/cm3, respectively.
EFFECT OF HEAT TREATMENT ON MICROSTRUCTURE CHARACTERISTICS OF LASER COMPOSITES
Authors: LIU PENG , ZHANG YUANBIN , LI YAJIANG , YANG QINGQING , LIU YAN , REN GUOCHENG
Published: November 2013

In this paper, effect of heat treatment on the microstructures and wear properties of laser alloying (LA) composites is investigated. LA of the T - Co 50/ FeSi / TiC / TiN / CeO 2 mixed powders on substrate of 45 steel can form the hard composites, which increased the wear resistance of substrate greatly. Such LA composites were investigated by means of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The tempering promoted the growth of the block-shape hard phases, favoring an enhancement of the integrity of block-shape hard phases; and tempering also improved greatly the formation mechanism, guarantying the composites to have enough ability of intensity transfer. This research provided essential experiment and theoretical basis to promote the application of the laser and heat treatment technologies in the field of surface modification.
CANTOR POLYNOMIALS FOR SEMIGROUP SECTORS
Authors: NATHANSON MELVYN B.
Published: November 2013

A packing function on a set Ω in Rn is a one-to-one correspondence between the set of lattice points in Ω and the set N0 of non-negative integers. It is proved that if r and s are relatively prime positive integers such that r divides s - 1, then there exist two distinct quadratic packing polynomials on the sector {(x, y) ∈ R2 : 0 ≤ y ≤ rx/s}. For the rational numbers 1/s, these are the unique quadratic packing polynomials. Moreover, quadratic quasi-polynomial packing functions are constructed for all rational sectors.
SYNTHESIS OF CaWO4 AND CaWO4:Eu MICROSPHERES BY PRECIPITATION
Authors: YANG YUGUO , WANG XUPING , LIU BING
Published: November 2013

Nearly monodisperse CaWO 4 and CaWO 4: Eu 3+ microspheres have been synthesized in large scale by a surfactant-assisted solution route, in which cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) is used. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and photoluminescence (PL) were used to characterize the resulting samples. The results of XRD indicate that the CaWO 4 and CaWO 4: Eu 3+ samples have the scheelite structures. The growth process of these nearly monodisperse spheres with an average diameter around 3.2 μm has been examined. The results of FTIR indicate that CTAB plays an important role in the formation of microspheres. The CaWO 4 microspheres exhibit a blue emission band with a maximum at 423 nm. But the CaWO 4: Eu 3+ microspheres exhibit a red emission band with a maximum at 623 nm.
HIGH-PERFORMANCE Pt/CNTs CATALYSTS VIA HYDROGEN PLASMA FOR METHANOL ELECTROOXIDATION
Authors: XU J. L. , WANG S. G. , DENG Q. R. , LIU Y. , ZHU J. L. , XU C. B. , WANG J. H.
Published: November 2013

High-performance carbon nanotubes-supported Pt catalysts ( Pt /CNTs) catalysts were prepared on the basis of Pt precursors reduced by hydrogen plasma ( Pt /CNTs-HP) generated by microwave. The other two Pt /CNTs catalysts prepared by hydrogen ( Pt /CNTs- H ) and NaBH 4 ( Pt /CNTs- N ) reduction were also involved for comparison. The practical composition of the catalysts was characterized with energy dispersive analysis of X-ray (EDAX). It was shown from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) that the Pt nanoparticles in Pt /CNTs-HP were uniformly dispersed on CNTs with smaller particle size around 2 nm and narrower size distribution as compared with the other two catalysts. Additionally, X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS) analysis indicated higher amount of zero-valence states of Pt in Pt /CNTs-HP caused by hydrogen plasma treatment. The electrooxidation of liquid methanol on these catalysts was investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and chronoamperometry. The long-time durability is very comparable to all the three catalysts. Remarkably, the Pt /CNTs-HP possessed the highest electrocatalytic activity, suggesting that the hydrogen plasma reduction approach can be a promising reduction method for preparing high-performance Pt -based electrocatalysts.
CARBON NANOTUBES/GRAPHENE THREE-DIMENSIONAL NETWORKS ARCHITECTURE LOADING WITH Ni AND ITS ADSORPTION PROPERTIES
Authors: ZENG BIN , LUO YOUXIN , LIU QIYUAN , ZENG WUJUN
Published: November 2013

The composite of carbon nanotubes/graphene networks loaded- Ni (CNTs/GR- Ni ) were successfully synthesized by spray drying and post-calcinating method for the first time. The synthesized products were systematically studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The result showed the hybrid of CNTs and graphene composed the 3D network structure and Ni nanoparticles were attaching on their surface. Adsorption performance evidenced that the obtained nanocomposite possessed high adsorption efficiency and excellent separation property.
FIRST-PRINCIPLES INVESTIGATION ON BAND STRUCTURE AND ELECTRONIC TRANSPORT PROPERTY OF GALLIUM NITRIDE NANORIBBON
Authors: CHANDIRAMOULI R. , SRIRAM S.
Published: November 2013

The electronic transport property and band structure of pure gallium nitride, oxygen, fluorine, indium substituted gallium nitride nanoribbon and defect structured GaN nanoribbons are investigated by employing first-principles studies using density functional theory. The band structure of pure GaN and indium substituted GaN nanoribbon shows a semiconducting nature. The oxygen, fluorine substituted GaN and defect structured GaN results in metallic behavior. The density of states provides the insight for the localization of charges in the valence band and conduction band. The substitution of oxygen and fluorine enhance the density of charges in valence band and conduction band. The substitution of indium shows an increase in the peak amplitude in density of states. The presence of defect also increases the density of states. The transport properties are studied in terms of transmission spectrum; pure GaN and indium substituted shows a same trend in transmission. In contrast, the transmission can be enhanced by the substitution of oxygen, fluorine and defect in nanoribbon. The information provided in the present study will pave its way to tailor a new material of GaN nanostructures with improved performance in the optoelectronic devices.
EFFECT OF REACTION TIME ON MICROSTRUCTURE, DIELECTRIC PROPERTY AND MICROWAVE ABSORPTION PROPERTY OF Cu-DOPED SiC NANOPOWDER
Authors: SU XIAOLEI , TAN YONGSHENG , JIA YAN , ZHAO KAILI , WANG JUNBO , XU JIE , HE XINHAI , FU CHONG , LIU SONGTAO
Published: November 2013

Cu -doped SiC nanopowders have been prepared via combustion synthesis of the silicon and carbon system in a 0.1 MPa nitrogen atmosphere under different reaction time, using copper as the dopant and PTFE as the chemical activator, respectively. X-ray diffraction, scanning electronic microscope and Raman spectra have been used to characterize the phase and morphology of prepared nanopowders. Results indicate that the lattice constant of prepared Cu -doped SiC nanopowder decreases with extending reaction time. The prepared nanopowders have fine spherical particles and narrow particle size distribution and the particle size increases with increasing reaction time. The electric permittivities of prepared Cu -doped SiC nanopowders in the frequency range of 8.2–12.4 GHz have been determined. The real part ε′, imaginary part ε′′ and dielectric loss tgδ of complex permittivity decrease with increasing reaction time. All prepared Cu -doped SiC nanopowder exhibits good microwave absorption property in the frequency range of 8.2–12.4 GHz.
INITIAL ROLL GUIDED STRUCTURAL TRANSITION OF GRAPHENE
Authors: LI Y. F.
Published: November 2013

Molecular dynamics simulations have been performed to study the initial roll guided structural transition of graphene. The flat graphene is thermodynamic metastable and small disturbance can strike its balance and lead to fold. An initial roll at one end causes the graphene layer to transform into double-fold, multi-fold and scroll spontaneously, depending on the size of the initial roll. This unique phenomenon results from the combined action of the van der Waals interaction and the π–π stacking effect. The potential energy of the final structures decreases with the increase of compact level. This study provides crucial simulation input to help guide to designing the required graphene-based nanostructures.
Eating quality of cooked rice determination using Fourier transform near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Lapcharoensuk Ravipat , Sirisomboon Panmanas
Published: November 2013

The goal of this research was to study the relationship between the eating quality of cooked rice and near infrared spectra measured by a Fourier Transform near infrared (FT–NIR) Spectrometer. Samples of milled: parboiled rice, white rice, new Jasmine rice (harvested in 2012) and aged Jasmine rice (harvested in 2006 or during the period 2007–2011) were used in this study. The eating quality of the cooked rice, i.e., adhesiveness, hardness, dryness, whiteness and aroma, were evaluated by trained sensory panelists. FT–NIR spectroscopy models for predicting the eating quality of cooked rice were established using the partial least squares regression. Among the eating quality, the stickiness model indicated its highest prediction ability (i.e., [Formula: see text]; RMSEP = 0.65; Bias = 0.00; RPD = 1.87) and SEP/SD of 2. In addition, it was clear that the water content did not affect the eating quality of cooked rice, rather the main chemical component implicated was starch.
ON POINTWISE λ-STATISTICAL CONVERGENCE OF ORDER α OF SEQUENCE OF FUNCTIONS
Authors: Et Mikail , Çinar Muhammed , Karakaş Murat
Published: November 2013

In this study, we introduce the concepts of pointwise λ-statistical convergence of order α and pointwise [V, λ]-summability of order α of sequences of real valued functions. Some relations between [Formula: see text]-statistical convergence and strong [Formula: see text]-summability are given.
THE SPECTRUM OF RANDOM INNER-PRODUCT KERNEL MATRICES
Authors: CHENG XIUYUAN , SINGER AMIT
Published: November 2013

We consider n × n matrices whose (i, j)th entry is [Formula: see text], where X1, …, Xn are i.i.d. standard Gaussian in ℝp, and f is a real-valued function. The weak limit of the eigenvalue distribution of these random matrices is studied at the limit when p, n → ∞ and p/n = γ which is a constant. We show that, under certain conditions on the kernel function f, the limiting spectral density exists and is dictated by a cubic equation involving its Stieltjes transform. The parameters of this cubic equation are decided by a Hermite-like expansion of the rescaled kernel function. While the case that f is differentiable at the origin has been previously resolved by El Karoui [The spectrum of kernel random matrices, Ann. Statist.38 (2010) 1–50], our result is applicable to non-smooth f, such as the Sign function and the hard thresholding operator of sample covariance matrices. For this larger class of kernel functions, we obtain a new family of limiting densities, which includes the Marčenko–Pastur (M.P.) distribution and Wigner's semi-circle distribution as special cases.
North Atlantic sea-floor spreading rates: implications for the Tertiary development of inversion structures of the Norwegian–Greenland Sea
Authors: Mosar Jon , Lewis Gavin , Torsvik TrondH.
Published: November 2013

The Tertiary development of the Norwegian continental margin was dominated by the opening of the Arctic–North Atlantic Ocean. The correct identification of magnetic anomalies and their ages and the analysis of spreading rates during the formation of this ocean are important in understanding the development of the region and specifically the history of its passive margins. Three ocean domains, the Ægir, Reykjanes and Mohns regions, were investigated in an effort to understand the lateral changes in structural development of the passive margin after continental break-up. Spreading rates generally slowed down from 2 cm a
−1
after Early Eocene initiation of sea-floor spreading, to values around 0.5 cm a
−1
in Oligocene time. An increase in spreading rates to around 1 cm a
−1
coincided with the positioning of the Iceland hotspot under the North Atlantic mid-ocean ridge. At the same time, the European plate changed its absolute plate motion from a north-directed drift to a motion more towards the east. The location of inversion structures in the Vøring and Faeroes Basin rather than in the Møre Basin is related to differences in spreading rates. The Mohns and the Reykjanes Ridges produced more ocean floor than the Ægir–Kolbeinsey Ridges. Asymmetric ocean-floor formation in the Ægir Ridge led to differential stress at the base of the lithosphere, which probably explains the absence of inversion features in the Møre Basin (less mantle drag). Furthermore, upper plate margins such as the Vøring Basin and possibly the Faeroe Basin have a lower compressional strength than lower plate margins such as the Møre Basin, and therefore preferentially developed inversion structures. Along the transform boundaries separating the domains, additional stress probably built up along extension of the transform zones into the extended continental crust. This additional stress probably also assisted initiation of the inversion structures in the Vøring Basin and the Faeroes area. The amplification of the inversion structures in the Vøring Basin and the Faeroes Basin was subsequently caused by a variety of processes related to sedimentation and uplift–erosion.
Geochemical evaluation of East Sirte Basin (Libya) petroleum systems and oil provenance
Authors: Burwood R. , Redfern J. , Cope M. J.
Published: November 2013

With cumulative reserves exceeding 23 gigabarrels oil recoverable (GBOR), the East Sirte Basin is a prolific oil province hosting supergiants such as the Amal, Augila-Nafoora and Sarir fields. Production from Precambrian-Oligocene reservoirs yields low sulphur and often highly waxy oils.

The Late Mesozoic-Cenozoic Agedabia and older Hameimat, Maragh and Sarir troughs provide the main structural features of the habitat and control hydrocarbon prospectivity. Paleogene subsidence has facilitated the generative process with Mesozoic basin-fill sediments hosting source rocks for productive petroleum system(s). Traditionally the marine Upper Cretaceous Sirte Shale Formation source was thought to provide the dominant charge. Application of geochemical inversion procedures to oil data, however, indicates a greater diversity in oil provenance. Delineation of eight end-member generic oil families indicates a number of complex contributory petroleum systems, mixed-system hybrid oils also being evident. Non-marine (lacustrine) source inputs are also in evidence, enhanced waxiness differentiating petroleums of such provenance. Systematic screening of the stratigraphic section has additionally identified source potential in Nubian (Triassic and Lower Cretaceous), Rachmat-Tagrifet (Upper Cretaceous), Harash (Paleocene) and Eocene formations.

Assignment of oil provenance has been achieved via multivariate oil data analysis and application of a carbon isotope-based source kerogen-oil correlation procedure. End-member petroleum systems have been definitively identified involving the Sirte Shale Formation, Rachmat-Tagrifet Formations and Nubian (Triassic) as the contributory sources. The remaining major systems rely upon Pre-Upper Cretaceous lacustrine sediments specific to the Hameimat and Sarir troughs. Whereas numerous archetypal Sirte Shale Formation oils were recognized (e.g. Messla, Hamid, Sarir-L etc.), reserves for many of the giant fields, including Amal, Augila-Nafoora and Sarir-C, rely on hybrid system charging.

These results confirm that the prospectivity of the Sirte Basin is not exclusively dependent upon the Sirte Shale Formation, with other petroleum systems in operation, often involving hybrid-sourcing.
Plasticity of Dendritic Spines: Subcompartmentalization of Signaling
Authors: Colgan Lesley A. , Yasuda Ryohei
Published: November 2013

The ability to induce and study neuronal plasticity in single dendritic spines has greatly advanced our understanding of the signaling mechanisms that mediate long-term potentiation. It is now clear that in addition to compartmentalization by the individual spine, subcompartmentalization of biochemical signals occurs at specialized microdomains within the spine. The spatiotemporal coordination of these complex cascades allows for the concomitant remodeling of the postsynaptic density and actin spinoskeleton and for the regulation of membrane traffic to express functional and structural plasticity. Here, we highlight recent findings in the signaling cascades at spine microdomains as well as the challenges and approaches to studying plasticity at the spine level.
Statistical Evaluation of Forensic DNA Profile Evidence
Authors: Steele Christopher D. , Balding David J.
Published: November 2013

The evaluation of weight of evidence for forensic DNA profiles has been a subject of controversy since their introduction over 20 years ago. Substantial progress has been made for standard DNA profiles, but new issues have arisen in recent years with the advent of more sensitive profiling techniques, allowing profiles to be recovered from minuscule amounts of possibly degraded DNA. These low-template DNA profiles suffer from enhanced stochastic effects, including dropin, dropout, and stutter, which pose problems for DNA profile evaluation. These problems are now beginning to be overcome with the emergence of several statistical models and software. We first review the general principles of statistical evaluation of DNA profile evidence, and we then focus on low-template DNA profiles, briefly reviewing the main statistical models and software. We cover methods that use allele presence/absence and those that use electropherogram peak heights, focusing on the likelihood ratio as measure of evidential weight.
Breaking Bad: Two Decades of Life-Course Data Analysis in Criminology, Developmental Psychology, and Beyond
Authors: Erosheva Elena A. , Matsueda Ross L. , Telesca Donatello
Published: November 2013

Studies of human development require longitudinal data analysis methods that describe within- and between-individual variation in developmental and behavioral trajectories. This article reviews life-course data analysis methods for modeling these trajectories, as well as their application in studies of antisocial behavior and of crime in childhood, in adolescence, and throughout life. We set the stage by introducing growth curve (hierarchical linear) models. We focus our review on finite mixture models for life-course data, known as group-based trajectory and growth mixture models. We then discuss how these models are applied within criminology and developmental psychology, recent controversies over their substantive use and interpretation, and important issues of statistical practice and the challenges they raise. Building on the critical literature, we offer several recommendations for the applied users of the models. Finally, we present the most recent method of examining behavioral trajectories in criminology, the unimodal curve registration (UCR) approach. We briefly contrast the UCR model with growth curve and finite mixture models for life-course data analysis.
Efficacy of Robotic-Assisted Prostatectomy in Localized Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
Authors: Sandoval Salinas Carolina , González Rangel Andrés L. , Cataño Cataño Juan G. , Fuentes Pachón Juan C. , Castillo Londoño Juan S.
Published: November 2013

Background. Radical prostatectomy is an effective treatment for clinically localized prostate cancer. The three approaches in current use have been extensively compared in observational studies, which have methodological limitations.Objective. To compare the efficacy and safety of three radical prostatectomy approaches in patients with localized prostate cancer: open, laparoscopic, and robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery.Materials and Methods. A systematic review of the literature was carried out. Databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, and CENTRAL were searched for randomized clinical trials that directly compared two or more radical prostatectomy approaches. Selection criteria, methodological rigor, and risk of bias were evaluated by two independent researchers using Cochrane Collaboration’s tools.Results. Three trials were included. In one study, laparoscopic surgery was associated with fewer blood loss and transfusion rates than the open procedure, in spite of longer operating time. The other two trials compared laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery in which no differences in perioperative outcomes were detected. Nevertheless, robotic-assisted prostatectomy showed more favorable erectile function and urinary continence recovery.Conclusion. At the present time, no clear advantage can be attributed to any of the existing prostatectomy approaches in terms of oncologic outcomes. However, some differences in patient-related outcomes favor the newer methods. Larger trials are required.
Ancestral Dynamic Voting Algorithm for Mutual Exclusion in Partitioned Distributed Systems
Authors: Zarafshan Faraneh , Karimi Abbas , Al-Haddad S. A. R. , Saripan M. Iqbal , Subramaniam Shamala
Published: November 2013

Data replication is a known redundancy used in fault-tolerant distributed system. However, it has the problem of mutual exclusion of replicated data. Mutual exclusion becomes difficult when a distributed system is partitioned into two or more isolated groups of sites. In this study, a new dynamic algorithm is presented as a solution for mutual exclusion in partitioned distributed systems. The correctness of the algorithm is proven, and simulation is utilized for availability analysis. Simulations show that the new algorithm, ancestral dynamic voting algorithm, improves the availability and lifetime of service in faulty environments, regardless of the number of sites and topology of the system. This algorithm also prolongs the lifetime of service to mutual exclusion for full and partial topologies especially for the situations where there is no majority. Furthermore, it needs less number of messages transmitted. Finally, it is simple and easy to implement.
A Simulation-Based Algorithm for the Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem with Stochastic Travel Times
Authors: Wang Zheng , Lin Lin
Published: November 2013

This paper presents a flexible solution methodology for the capacitated vehicle routing problem with stochastic travel times (CVRPSTT). One of the basic ideas of the methodology is to consider a vehicle working time lower than the actual maximum vehicle working time when designing CVRPSTT solutions. In this way, the working time surplus can be used to cope with unexpected congestions when necessary. Another important idea is to transform the CVRPSTT instance to a limited set of capacitated vehicle routing problems (CVRP), each of which is defined by a given percentage of the maximum vehicle working time. Thus, our approach can take advantage of any efficient heuristic that already exists for the CVRP. Based on the two key ideas, this paper presents a simulation-based algorithm, in which Monte Carlo simulation is used to obtain estimates of the cost and the reliability of each solution, and the Clarke and Wright heuristic is improved to generate more reliable solutions. Finally, a number of numerical experiments are done in the paper with the purpose of analyzing the efficiency of the described methodology under different uncertainty scenarios.
Faith as a Resource in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Is Associated with a Positive Interpretation of Illness and Experience of Gratitude/Awe
Authors: Büssing Arndt , Wirth Anne-Gritli , Humbroich Knut , Gerbershagen Kathrin , Schimrigk Sebastian , Haupts Michael , Baumann Klaus , Heusser Peter
Published: November 2013

The aim of this cross-sectional anonymous survey with standardized questionnaires was to investigate which resources to cope were used by patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). We focussed on patients' conviction that their faith might be a strong hold in difficult times and on their engagement in different forms of spirituality. Consecutively 213 German patients (75% women; mean age 43 ± 11 years) were enrolled. Fifty-five percent regarded themselves as neither religious nor spiritual (R−S−), while 31% describe themselves as religious. For 29%, faith was a strong hold in difficult times. This resource was neither related to patients' EDSS scores, and life affections, fatigue, negative mood states, life satisfaction nor to Positive attitudes. Instead it was moderately associated with a Reappraisal strategy (i.e., and positive interpretation of illness) and experience of gratitude/awe. Compared to spiritual/religious patients, R−S− individuals had significantly (P<.0001) lower Reappraisal scores and lower engagement in specific forms of spiritual practices. The ability to reflect on what is essential in life, to appreciate and value life, and also the conviction that illness may have meaning and could be regarded as a chance for development was low in R−S− individuals which either may have no specific interest or are less willing to reflect these issues.
Long-Term Effectiveness of Parent Education Using the “Baby Oral Health” Model on the Improvement of Oral Health of Young Children
Authors: Kulkarni Gajanan V.
Published: November 2013

Purpose.To determine the long-term effectiveness of comprehensive education given to parents and caregivers with respect to the incidence of preventable oral diseases, utilization of dental services, and retention of knowledge related to oral health.Methods.Group presentations on oral health were conducted for caregivers of infants (n=161) using an interactive audio-visual aid. Followup occurred at 18 months. A comparison group (n=181) was enrolled from the same community groups. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to analyze findings.Results.There was a difference in caries incidence, knowledge levels of caregivers, and utilization of dental services (P<0.05) when comparing the SGB to the SGFU.Conclusions.One-time exposure to parent education using a comprehensive interactive audio-visual aid has an effect on reducing caries incidence and increasing dental utilization. While most knowledge is retained by parents, there is some attrition in the information retained over an 18-month time period. This emphasizes the importance of repeated reinforcement of the same concepts over a shorter time span.
Gamma Knife Surgery as Monotherapy with Clinically Relevant Doses Prolongs Survival in a Human GBM Xenograft Model
Authors: Sandvei Skeie Bente , Wang Jian , Dodoo Ernest , Heggdal Jan Ingeman , Grønli Janne , Sleire Linda , Bragstad Sidsel , Ganz Jeremy C. , Chekenya Martha , Mørk Sverre , Pedersen Paal-Henning , Enger Per Øyvind
Published: November 2013

Object. Gamma knife surgery (GKS) may be used for recurring glioblastomas (GBMs). However, patients have then usually undergone multimodal treatment, which makes it difficult to specifically validate GKS independent of established treatments. Thus, we developed an experimental brain tumor model to assess the efficacy and radiotoxicity associated with GKS.Methods. GBM xenografts were implanted intracerebrally in nude rats, and engraftment was confirmed with MRI. The rats were allocated to GKS, with margin doses of 12 Gy or 18 Gy, or to no treatment. Survival time was recorded, tumor sections were examined, and radiotoxicity was evaluated in a behavioral open field test.Results. In the first series, survival from the time of implantation was 96 days in treated rats and 72 days in controls (P<0.001). In a second experiment, survival was 72 days in the treatment group versus 54 days in controls (P<0.006). Polynuclear macrophages and fibrosis was seen in groups subjected to GKS. Untreated rats with GBM xenografts displayed less mobility than GKS-treated animals in the open field test 4 weeks after treatment (P=0.04).Conclusion. GKS administered with clinically relevant doses prolongs survival in rats harboring GBM xenografts, and the associated toxicity is mild.
Variable Structure Disturbance Rejection Control for Nonlinear Uncertain Systems with State and Control Delays via Optimal Sliding Mode Surface Approach
Authors: Lei Jing , Wang Xin , She Yu-Mei , Zhang Tian-Jun
Published: November 2013

The paper considers the problem of variable structure control for nonlinear systems with uncertainty and time delays under persistent disturbance by using the optimal sliding mode surface approach. Through functional transformation, the original time-delay system is transformed into a delay-free one. The approximating sequence method is applied to solve the nonlinear optimal sliding mode surface problem which is reduced to a linear two-point boundary value problem of approximating sequences. The optimal sliding mode surface is obtained from the convergent solutions by solving a Riccati equation, a Sylvester equation, and the state and adjoint vector differential equations of approximating sequences. Then, the variable structure disturbance rejection control is presented by adopting an exponential trending law, where the state and control memory terms are designed to compensate the state and control delays, a feedforward control term is designed to reject the disturbance, and an adjoint compensator is designed to compensate the effects generated by the nonlinearity and the uncertainty. Furthermore, an observer is constructed to make the feedforward term physically realizable, and thus the dynamical observer-based dynamical variable structure disturbance rejection control law is produced. Finally, simulations are demonstrated to verify the effectiveness of the presented controller and the simplicity of the proposed approach.
Lithium Chloride Enhances Cathepsin H Expression and BMP-4 Degradation in C3H10T1/2 Cells
Authors: Kishimoto Koshi N. , Itoi Eiji
Published: November 2013

The effect of canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling on chondrogenic differentiation induced by transfection of BMP4 expressing plasmid was analyzed. Lithium chloride (LiCl) which mimics canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling was added to cells transfected with BMP4 expressing plasmid. Although BMP4 mRNA expression was not affected by LiCl, LiCl decreased BMP4 protein accumulation. Gene expression analysis exhibited upregulation of cathepsin H by LiCl treatment. Gene silencing of cathepsin H enhanced BMP4 protein accumulation from BMP4 expressing cells. These results suggested that cathepsin H is regulated by Wnt/β-catenin signaling and plays an important role in the regulation of BMP4 biological activity.
Phylogeny, Functional Annotation, and Protein Interaction Network Analyses of theXenopus tropicalisBasic Helix-Loop-Helix Transcription Factors
Authors: Liu Wuyi , Chen Deyu
Published: November 2013

The previous survey identified 70 basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proteins, but it was proved to be incomplete, and the functional information and regulatory networks of frog bHLH transcription factors were not fully known. Therefore, we conducted an updated genome-wide survey in theXenopus tropicalisgenome project databases and identified 105 bHLH sequences. Among the retrieved 105 sequences, phylogenetic analyses revealed that 103 bHLH proteins belonged to 43 families or subfamilies with 46, 26, 11, 3, 15, and 4 members in the corresponding supergroups. Next, gene ontology (GO) enrichment analyses showed 65 significant GO annotations of biological processes and molecular functions and KEGG pathways counted in frequency. To explore the functional pathways, regulatory gene networks, and/or related gene groups coding forXenopus tropicalisbHLH proteins, the identified bHLH genes were put into the databases KOBAS and STRING to get the signaling information of pathways and protein interaction networks according to available public databases and known protein interactions. From the genome annotation and pathway analysis using KOBAS, we identified 16 pathways in theXenopus tropicalisgenome. From the STRING interaction analysis, 68 hub proteins were identified, and many hub proteins created a tight network or a functional module within the protein families.
Religiosity and Spirituality and the Intake of Fruit, Vegetable, and Fat: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tan Min-Min , Chan Carina K. Y. , Reidpath Daniel D.
Published: November 2013

Objectives. To systematically review articles investigating the relationship between religion and spirituality (R/S) and fruit, vegetable, and fat intake.Methods. PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycInfo were searched for studies published in English prior to March 2013. The studies were divided into two categories: denominational studies and degree of R/S studies. The degree of R/S studies was further analyzed to (1) determine the categories of R/S measures and their relationship with fruit, vegetable, and fat intake, (2) evaluate the quality of the R/S measures and the research design, and (3) determine the categories of reported relationship.Results. Thirty-nine studies were identified. There were 14 denominational studies and 21 degree of R/S studies, and 4 studies were a combination of both. Only 20% of the studies reported validity and 52% reported reliability of the R/S measures used. All studies were cross-sectional, and only one attempted mediation analysis. Most studies showed a positive association with fruit and vegetable intake and a mixed association with fat intake.Conclusion. The positive association between R/S and fruit and vegetable intake may be one possible link between R/S and positive health outcome. However, the association with fat intake was mixed, and recommendations for future research are made.
The Spot Weldability of Carbon Steel Sheet
Authors: Al-Mukhtar A. M. , Doos Q.
Published: November 2013

The specimens of thickness 0.8 mm carbon steel number 1.8902 in a strip form were welded. The strips of lap joints and curved peeljoints configurations have been welded. The welding parameters such as weld current and weld time have been investigated. The relation between the weld area and the joint strength properties has been presented. The obtained results were showing that the weld joint strength and the molten area (weld nugget volume) highly increase with the increasing of weld current. Therefore, the correlation between the maximum load (joint strength) and area has been given. The reliable weldability under the tensile and shearing loading was considered. Therefore, the new limits of weldability have been presented to consider these two types of loading. Moreover, the experimental results were compared with the empirical relations that consider the sheet thickness only.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Some New 5‐(2‐Methyl‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐amine Derivatives
Authors: Saundane Anand R. , Verma Vaijinath A. , Katkar Vijaykumar T.
Published: November 2013

A series of 5‐(2‐methyl‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐amine derivatives (3–5) were synthesized. These previously unknown compounds were characterized by spectral studies and elemental analysis. These compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Among all the compounds tested 5d exhibited promising antibacterial, antifungal, radical scavenging, and ferric ions (Fe3+) reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) activities, whereas the compounds 3b, 4c, and 5e exhibited good FRAP and metal chelating activities. In general compounds containing chloro and methyl substituent exhibited better antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.
Defects in Tendon, Ligament, and Enthesis in Response to Genetic Alterations in Key Proteoglycans and Glycoproteins: A Review
Authors: Juneja Subhash C. , Veillette Christian
Published: November 2013

This review summarizes the genetic alterations and knockdown approaches published in the literature to assess the role of key proteoglycans and glycoproteins in the structural development, function, and repair of tendon, ligament, and enthesis. The information was collected from (i) genetically altered mice, (ii)in vitroknockdown studies, (iii) genetic variants predisposition to injury, and (iv) human genetic diseases. The genes reviewed are for small leucine-rich proteoglycans (lumican, fibromodulin, biglycan, decorin, and asporin); dermatan sulfate epimerase (Dse) that alters structure of glycosaminoglycan and hence the function of small leucine-rich proteoglycans by converting glucuronic to iduronic acid; matricellular proteins (thrombospondin 2, secreted phosphoprotein 1 (Spp1), secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (Sparc), periostin, and tenascin X) including human tenascin C variants; and others, such as tenomodulin, leukocyte cell derived chemotaxin 1 (chondromodulin-I, ChM-I), CD44 antigen (Cd44), lubricin (Prg4), and aggrecan degrading gene, a disintegrin-like and metallopeptidase (reprolysin type) with thrombospondin type 1 motif, 5 (Adamts5). Understanding these genes represents drug targets for disrupting pathological mechanisms that lead to tendinopathy, ligamentopathy, enthesopathy, enthesitis and tendon/ligament injury, that is, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
Power-Aware Routing and Network Design with Bundled Links: Solutions and Analysis
Authors: Garroppo Rosario G. , Giordano Stefano , Nencioni Gianfranco , Scutellà Maria Grazia
Published: November 2013

The paper deeply analyzes a novel network-wide power management problem, called Power-Aware Routing and Network Design with Bundled Links (PARND-BL), which is able to take into account both the relationship between the power consumption and the traffic throughput of the nodes and to power off both the chassis and even the single Physical Interface Card (PIC) composing each link. The solutions of the PARND-BL model have been analyzed by taking into account different aspects associated with the actual applicability in real network scenarios: (i) the time for obtaining the solution, (ii) the deployed network topology and the resulting topology provided by the solution, (iii) the power behavior of the network elements, (iv) the traffic load, (v) the QoS requirement, and (vi) the number of paths to route each traffic demand. Among the most interesting and novel results, our analysis shows that the strategy of minimizing the number of powered-on network elements through the traffic consolidation does not always produce power savings, and the solution of this kind of problems, in some cases, can lead to spliting a single traffic demand into a high number of paths.
A Fast Image Stitching Algorithm via Multiple-Constraint Corner Matching
Authors: Zhu Minchen , Wang Weizhi , Liu Binghan , Huang Jingshan
Published: November 2013

Video panoramic image stitching is in general challenging because there is small overlapping between original images, and stitching processes are therefore extremely time consuming. We present a new algorithm in this paper. Our contribution can be summarized as a multiple-constraint corner matching process and the resultant faster image stitching. The traditional Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) algorithm is inefficient, especially when stitching a large number of images and when these images have quite similar features. We first filter out many inappropriate corners according to their position information. An initial set of candidate matching-corner pairs is then generated based on grayscales of adjacent regions around each corner. Finally we apply multiple constraints, e.g., their midpoints, distances, and slopes, on every two candidate pairs to remove incorrectly matched pairs. Consequently, we are able to significantly reduce the number of iterations needed in RANSAC algorithm so that the panorama stitching can be performed in a much more efficient manner. Experimental results demonstrate that (i) our corner matching is three times faster than normalized cross-correlation function (NCC) rough match in traditional RANSAC algorithm and (ii) panoramas generated from our algorithm feature a smooth transition in overlapping image areas and satisfy human visual requirements.
Effect of a Polymeric Protective Coating on Optical and Electrical Properties of Poly(p‐phenylene vinylene) Derivatives
Authors: Gonçalves V. C. , Olivati C. A. , Carvalho A. J. F. , Balogh D. T.
Published: November 2013

The resistance to photodegradation of poly[(2‐methoxy‐5‐n‐hexyloxy)‐p‐phenylene vinylene] (OC1OC6‐PPV) films was significantly enhanced by the use of poly(vinyl alcohol) 99% hydrolyzed as protective coating. The deposition of poly(vinyl alcohol) onto OC1OC6‐PPV films did not affect the absorption and the emission spectra of the luminescent polymer. The protected film showed 5% drop on the absorbance at 500 nm after 270 hours of light exposure while the unprotected film completely degraded in the same conditions. The conductivity of the protected film remained stable (around 7 × 10−10 S/m) while the value for the unprotected one dropped around two orders of magnitude after 100 hours of light exposure.
Skeletal Muscle-Specific CPT1 Deficiency Elevates Lipotoxic Intermediates but Preserves Insulin Sensitivity
Authors: Shi Wanchun , Hu Siping , Wang Wenhua , Zhou Xiaohui , Qiu Wei
Published: November 2013

Objective. By specific knockout of carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1b (CPT1b) in skeletal muscles, we explored the effect of CPT1b deficiency on lipids and insulin sensitivity.Methods. Mice with specific knockout of CPT1b in skeletal muscles (CPT1b M−/−) were used for the experiment group, with littermate C57BL/6 as controls (CPT1b). General and metabolic profiles were measured and compared between groups. mRNA expression and CPT1 activity were measured in skeletal muscle tissues and compared between groups. Mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO), triglycerides (TAGs), diglycerides (DAGs), and ceramides were examined in skeletal muscles in two groups. Phosphorylated AKT (pAkt) and glucose transporter 4 (Glut4) were determined with real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Insulin tolerance test, glucose tolerance test, and pyruvate oxidation were performed in both groups.Results. CPT1b M−/− model was successfully established, with impaired muscle CPT1 activity. Compared with CPT1b mice, CPT1b M−/− mice had similar food intake but lower body weight or fat mass and higher lipids but similar glucose or insulin levels. Their mitochondrial FAO of skeletal muscles was impaired. There were lipids accumulations (TAGs, DAGs, and ceramides) in skeletal muscle. However, pAkt and Glut4, insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, and pyruvate oxidation were preserved.Conclusion. Skeletal muscle-specific CPT1 deficiency elevates lipotoxic intermediates but preserves insulin sensitivity.