bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STRUCTURAL, ELECTRONIC AND ELASTIC PROPERTIES OF TERNARY ALLOY CoxNi1-xSi2
Authors: OUCHENE S. , KADRI M. T. , BAAOUAGUE K. , BELKHIR H.
Published: July 2013

First-principles calculations, by means of the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method using the generalized gradient approximation (GGA), were carried out for the structural, electronic and elastic properties of transition metals disilicides alloy Co x Ni 1-x Si 2 in the fluorite structure. The composition effect on lattice constants and bulk modulus has been analyzed. The deviations of the lattice constants from Vegard's law and the bulk modulus from linear concentration dependence (LCD) were observed for Co x Ni 1-x Si 2. We also calculated the densities of states for the distorted Co x Ni 1-x Si 2 alloys as well as for the ordered phases CoSi 2 and NiSi 2. Theoretical values of Young's modulus, shear modulus, Poisson's ratio and Debye temperature are estimated from the computed elastic constants. The analysis of the ratio of shear modulus to bulk modulus shows that the alloy is more brittle than the binary compounds. The calculated results are compared with other reported values.
LASER TRAPPING OF IONS AND ASYMPTOTIC MINIMIZATION OF DECOHERENCE
Authors: BHATTACHARYA SAMYADEB , ROY SISIR
Published: July 2013

Decoherence time has been calculated for an optical ion trap of Be atoms in a bistable potential model. Comparison has been made between decoherence time and Zeno time for double well potential as a special case. Zeno time is considered as a lower limit of decoherence time for sustainable quantum coherence. Equality of the respective timescales provides a certain transitional temperature, below which decoherence can be asymptotically minimized.
SECOND OPTICAL HARMONIC GENERATION OF CO2 LASER RADIATION IN CGA CRYSTAL
Authors: KASUMOVA RENA J.
Published: July 2013

In this work, second harmonic generation has been investigated for radiation in IR-range of spectrum at the constant-intensity approximation. The detailed analysis of nonlinear interaction of optical waves have been studied in CGA, ZAP and AgGa0.6In0.4Se2 crystals and the comparison of the obtained results have been made on conversion efficiency with experimentally calculated values. The conditions for realization have been determined for the regime close to the uncritical angular phase matching. The recommendations are suggested on elaboration of the reliability of highly efficient generators for second harmonic in the IR-range, specially the generators of second harmonic of the CO2 lasers.
AN EFFICIENT NC ALGORITHM FOR APPROXIMATE MAXIMUM WEIGHT MATCHING
Authors: BANERJEE SATYAJIT
Published: July 2013

We present an alternative implementation of the (1 – ϵ) factor NC approximation algorithm for the maximum weight matching by Hougardy et al. [1]. Our implementation, on the EREW PRAM model of computation, achieves an [Formula: see text] factor improvement on both the execution time and the number of processors.
WHEN ALL MINIMAL VERTEX SEPARATORS INDUCE COMPLETE OR EDGELESS SUBGRAPHS
Authors: McKEE TERRY A.
Published: July 2013

The graphs in which every minimal vertex separator induces a complete or an edgeless subgraph are shown to be the edge sums of graphs of the two extreme types: (i) when every minimal vertex separator induces a complete subgraph — these are precisely the well-studied chordal graphs — and (ii) when every minimal vertex separator induces an edgeless subgraph — these have appeared in several recent papers.
SUB-ADDITIVE RECURSIVE "MATCHING" NOISE AND BIASES IN RISK-WEIGHTED INDEX CALCULATION METHODS IN INCOMPLETE MARKETS WITH PARTIALLY OBSERVABLE MULTI-ATTRIBUTE PREFERENCES
Authors: NWOGUGU MICHAEL C. I.
Published: July 2013

While indices, index tracking funds and ETFs have grown in popularity during then last ten years, there are many structural problems, tracking errors and biases inherent in index calculation methodologies and the legal/economic structure of ETFs, which raise actionable issues of "suitability" and "fraud" under US securities laws. This article contributes to the existing literature by: (a) introducing and characterizing the errors and biases inherent in "risk-adjusted" index-weighting methods and the associated adverse effects; (b) showing how these biases/effects reduce social welfare, and can facilitate harmful arbitrage activities; (c) introducing new theorems.
CTRP9 transgenic mice are protected from diet-induced obesity and metabolic dysfunction
Authors: Peterson Jonathan M. , Wei Zhikui , Seldin Marcus M. , Byerly Mardi S. , Aja Susan , Wong G. William
Published: July 2013

CTRP9 is a secreted multimeric protein of the C1q family and the closest paralog of the insulin-sensitizing adipokine, adiponectin. The metabolic function of this adipose tissue-derived plasma protein remains largely unknown. Here, we show that the circulating levels of CTRP9 are downregulated in diet-induced obese mice and upregulated upon refeeding. Overexpressing CTRP9 resulted in lean mice that dramatically resisted weight gain induced by a high-fat diet, largely through decreased food intake and increased basal metabolism. Enhanced fat oxidation in CTRP9 transgenic mice resulted from increases in skeletal muscle mitochondrial content, expression of enzymes involved in fatty acid oxidation (LCAD and MCAD), and chronic AMPK activation. Hepatic and skeletal muscle triglyceride levels were substantially decreased in transgenic mice. Consequently, CTRP9 transgenic mice had a greatly improved metabolic profile with markedly reduced fasting insulin and glucose levels. The high-fat diet-induced obesity, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis observed in wild-type mice were prevented in transgenic mice. Consistent with the in vivo data, recombinant protein significantly enhanced fat oxidation in L6 myotubes via AMPK activation and reduced lipid accumulation in H4IIE hepatocytes. Collectively, these data establish CTRP9 as a novel metabolic regulator and a new component of the metabolic network that links adipose tissue to lipid metabolism in skeletal muscle and liver.
Differential effects of endurance training and weight loss on plasma adiponectin multimers and adipose tissue macrophages in younger, moderately overweight men
Authors: Auerbach Pernille , Nordby Pernille , Bendtsen Line Q. , Mehlsen Jesper L. , Basnet Smita K. , Vestergaard Henrik , Ploug Thorkil , Stallknecht Bente
Published: July 2013

Obese individuals are characterized by low circulating adiponectin concentrations and an increased number of macrophages in adipose tissue, which is believed to be causally associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance. Regular physical exercise decreases overall morbidity in obese subjects, which may be due to modulations of inflammatory pathways. In this randomized clinical trial we investigated the separate effects of endurance training-induced weight loss, diet-induced weight loss, and endurance training per se (without weight loss) on plasma adiponectin multimer composition (Western blotting) and adipose tissue macrophage content (immunohistochemistry) in young, moderately overweight men. Weight loss and endurance training per se decreased whole body fat percentage in an additive manner. No intervention-induced changes were observed for plasma total adiponectin. Surprisingly, endurance training, irrespectively of any associated weight loss, shifted the adiponectin multimer distribution toward a lower molecular weight (21% decrease in HMW/LMW, P = 0.015), whereas diet-induced weight loss shifted the distribution toward a higher molecular weight (42% increase in HMW/MMW, P < 0.001). Furthermore, endurance training per se increased the number of anti-inflammatory CD163+macrophages [from 12.7 ± 2.1 (means ± SE) to 16.1 ± 3.1 CD163+cells/100 adipocytes, P = 0.013], whereas diet-induced weight loss tended to decrease CD68+macrophages in subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue. Thus regular physical exercise influences systemic and adipose tissue inflammatory pathways differently than diet-induced weight loss in younger, moderately overweight men. Our data suggest that some of the health benefits of a physically active lifestyle may occur through modulations of anti- rather than pro-inflammatory pathways in young, overweight men.
Identification of CaV channel types expressed in muscle afferent neurons
Authors: Ramachandra Renuka , Hassan Bassil , McGrew Stephanie G. , Dompor James , Farrag Mohamed , Ruiz-Velasco Victor , Elmslie Keith S.
Published: July 2013

Cardiovascular adjustments to exercise are partially mediated by group III/IV (small to medium) muscle afferents comprising the exercise pressor reflex (EPR). However, this reflex can be inappropriately activated in disease states (e.g., peripheral vascular disease), leading to increased risk of myocardial infarction. Here we investigate the voltage-dependent calcium (CaV) channels expressed in small to medium muscle afferent neurons as a first step toward determining their potential role in controlling the EPR. Using specific blockers and 5 mM Ba2+ as the charge carrier, we found the major calcium channel types to be CaV2.2 (N-type) > CaV2.1 (P/Q-type) > CaV1.2 (L-type). Surprisingly, the CaV2.3 channel (R-type) blocker SNX482 was without effect. However, R-type currents are more prominent when recorded in Ca2+ ( Liang and Elmslie 2001 ). We reexamined the channel types using 10 mM Ca2+ as the charge carrier, but results were similar to those in Ba2+. SNX482 was without effect even though ∼27% of the current was blocker insensitive. Using multiple methods, we demonstrate that CaV2.3 channels are functionally expressed in muscle afferent neurons. Finally, ATP is an important modulator of the EPR, and we examined the effect on CaV currents. ATP reduced CaV current primarily via G protein βγ-mediated inhibition of CaV2.2 channels. We conclude that small to medium muscle afferent neurons primarily express CaV2.2 > CaV2.1 ≥ CaV2.3 > CaV1.2 channels. As with chronic pain, CaV2.2 channel blockers may be useful in controlling inappropriate activation of the EPR.
Sniffer patch laser uncaging response (SPLURgE): an assay of regional differences in allosteric receptor modulation and neurotransmitter clearance
Authors: Christian Catherine A. , Huguenard John R.
Published: July 2013

Allosteric modulators exert actions on neurotransmitter receptors by positively or negatively altering the effective response of these receptors to their respective neurotransmitter. γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A ionotropic receptors (GABAARs) are major targets for allosteric modulators such as benzodiazepines, neurosteroids, and barbiturates. Analysis of substances that produce similar effects has been hampered by the lack of techniques to assess the localization and function of such agents in brain slices. Here we describe measurement of the sniffer patch laser uncaging response (SPLURgE), which combines the sniffer patch recording configuration with laser photolysis of caged GABA. This methodology enables the detection of allosteric GABAAR modulators endogenously present in discrete areas of the brain slice and allows for the application of exogenous GABA with spatiotemporal control without altering the release and localization of endogenous modulators within the slice. Here we demonstrate the development and use of this technique for the measurement of allosteric modulation in different areas of the thalamus. Application of this technique will be useful in determining whether a lack of modulatory effect on a particular category of neurons or receptors is due to insensitivity to allosteric modulation or a lack of local release of endogenous ligand. We also demonstrate that this technique can be used to investigate GABA diffusion and uptake. This method thus provides a biosensor assay for rapid detection of endogenous GABAAR modulators and has the potential to aid studies of allosteric modulators that exert effects on other classes of neurotransmitter receptors, such as glutamate, acetylcholine, or glycine receptors.
Bayesian Estimation and Prediction for Flexible Weibull Model under Type-II Censoring Scheme
Authors: Singh Sanjay Kumar , Singh Umesh , Sharma Vikas Kumar
Published: July 2013

We have developed the Bayesian estimation procedure for flexible Weibull distribution under Type-II censoring scheme assuming Jeffrey's scale invariant (noninformative) and Gamma (informative) priors for the model parameters. The interval estimation for the model parameters has been performed through normal approximation, bootstrap, and highest posterior density (HPD) procedures. Further, we have also derived the predictive posteriors and the corresponding predictive survival functions for the future observations based on Type-II censored data from the flexible Weibull distribution. Since the predictive posteriors are not in the closed form, we proposed to use the Monte Carlo Markov chain (MCMC) methods to approximate the posteriors of interest. The performance of the Bayes estimators has also been compared with the classical estimators of the model parameters through the Monte Carlo simulation study. A real data set representing the time between failures of secondary reactor pumps has been analysed for illustration purpose.
Therapeutic Applications of Herbal Medicines for Cancer Patients
Authors: Yin Shu-Yi , Wei Wen-Chi , Jian Feng-Yin , Yang Ning-Sun
Published: July 2013

Medicinal herbs and their derivative phytocompounds are being increasingly recognized as useful complementary treatments for cancer. A large volume of clinical studies have reported the beneficial effects of herbal medicines on the survival, immune modulation, and quality of life (QOL) of cancer patients, when these herbal medicines are used in combination with conventional therapeutics. Here, we briefly review some examples of clinical studies that investigated the use of herbal medicines for various cancers and the development of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in this emerging research area. In addition, we also report recent studies on the biochemical and cellular mechanisms of herbal medicines in specific tumor microenvironments and the potential application of specific phytochemicals in cell-based cancer vaccine systems. This review should provide useful technological support for evidence-based application of herbal medicines in cancer therapy.
Cytotoxicity and Pharmacogenomics of Medicinal Plants from Traditional Korean Medicine
Authors: Kuete Victor , Seo Ean-Jeong , Krusche Benjamin , Oswald Mira , Wiench Benjamin , Schröder Sven , Greten Henry Johannes , Lee Ik-Soo , Efferth Thomas
Published: July 2013

Aim. The present study was designed to investigate the cytotoxicity of a panel of 280 Korean medicinal plants belonging to 73 families and 198 species against human CCRF-CEM leukemia cells. Selected phytochemicals were investigated in more detail for their mode of action.Methods. The resazurin assay was used to determine cytotoxicity of the plant extracts. Microarray-based mRNA expression profiling, COMPARE, and hierarchical cluster analyses were applied to identify which genes correlate with sensitivity or resistance to selected phytochemicals of the Korean plants.Results. The results of the resazurin assay showed that cytotoxicity extracts tested at 10 μg/mL from 13 samples inhibited proliferation more than 50% (IC50<10 μg/mL) and the most active plants areSedum middendorffianum(15.33%)and Lycoris radiata(17.61%). Out of 13 selected phytochemicals from these plants, hopeaphenol and deoxynarciclasine were the most cytotoxic ones. Genes from various functional groups (transcriptional or translational regulation, signal transduction, cellular proliferation, intracellular trafficking, RNA metabolism, endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum function, etc.) were significantly correlated with response of tumor cell lines to these two compounds.Conclusion. The results provide evidence on the possible use of selected Korean medicinal plants and chemical constituents derived from them for the treatment of tumors.
Full-Order Disturbance-Observer-Based Control for Singular Hybrid System
Authors: Yao Xiuming , Dong Ze , Wang Dongfeng
Published: July 2013

The problem of the disturbance-observer-based control for singular hybrid system with two types of disturbances is addressed in this paper. Under the assumption that the system states are, unavailable, full-order observers (for both system states and the disturbance) and a nonlinear control scheme are constructed, such that the composite system can be guaranteed to be stochastically admissible, and the two types of disturbances can be attenuated and rejected, simultaneously. Based on the Lyapunov stability theory, sufficient conditions for the existence of the desired full-order disturbance-observer-based controllers are established in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, a numerical example is provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed approaches.
Parthenolide Is Neuroprotective in Rat Experimental Stroke Model: Downregulating NF-κB, Phospho-p38MAPK, and Caspase-1 and Ameliorating BBB Permeability
Authors: Dong Lipeng , Qiao Huimin , Zhang Xiangjian , Zhang Xiaolin , Wang Chaohui , Wang Lina , Cui Lili , Zhao Jingru , Xing Yinxue , Li Yanhua , Liu Zongjie , Zhu Chunhua
Published: July 2013

Inflammatory damage plays an important role in cerebral ischemic pathogenesis and may represent a target for treatment. Parthenolide (PN) has been proved to elicit a wide range of biological activities through its anti-inflammatory action in the treatment of migraine, arthritis, and atherosclerosis. To decide whether this effect applies to ischemic injury in brain, we therefore investigate the potential neuroprotective role of PN and the underlying mechanisms. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into Saline, Vehicle, and PN groups and a permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was used. PN administered intraperitoneally immediately after cerebral ischemia and once daily on the following days. At time points after MCAO, neurological deficit, infarct volume, and brain water content were measured. Immunohistochemistry, western blot and RT-PCR were used to analyze the expression of NF-κB and caspase-1 in ischemic brain tissue. Phospho-p38MAPK and claudin-5 were detected by western blot. The results indicated that PN dramatically ameliorated neurological deficit, brain water content, and infarct volume, downregulated NF-κB, phospho-p38MAPK, and caspase-1 expressions, and upregulated claudin-5 expression in ischemic brain tissue.Conclusions.PN protected the brain from damage caused by MCAO; this effect may be through downregulating NF-κB, phosho-p38MAPK, and caspase-1 expressions and ameliorating BBB permeability.
Subdural and Cerebellar Hematomas Which Developed after Spinal Surgery: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Utku Ufuk , Güler Sibel , Yalnız Erol , Ünlü Ercüment
Published: July 2013

Cerebellar hemorrhage following a spinal surgery is extremely rare; however, considering the localization, it can cause major clinical manifestations. While it is considered that these types of bleedings occur secondary to a venous infarct, the pathogenesis is still unclear. A 57-year-old male patient who underwent a laminectomy by exposing T12-L5 and had pedicle screws placed for ankylosing spondylitis developed a CSF leak due to a 2 mm dural tear. A hemorrhage with parallel streaks on the left cerebellar hemisphere was seen in CT scan, and a thin subdural hematoma at right frontotemporal region was seen on cranial MRI, performed after the patient developed intense headache, nausea, vomiting, and stiff neck in the early postoperative period. In this paper, a case of cerebellar and subdural hematomas following a spinal surgery is discussed with its clinical and radiologic findings.
Characterization ofLegionella pneumophilaIsolated from Environmental Water and Ashiyu Foot Spa
Authors: Tachibana Masato , Nakamoto Masaya , Kimura Yui , Shimizu Takashi , Watarai Masahisa
Published: July 2013

Hot springs are the most common infectious source ofLegionella pneumophilain Japan. However, little is known about the association betweenL. pneumophilaand environmental waters other than hot springs. In this study, water samples from 22 environmental water sites were surveyed; of the 22 samples, five wereL. pneumophilapositive (23%).L. pneumophilawas mainly isolated from ashiyu foot spas, a type of hot spring for the feet (3/8, 38%). These isolates had genetic loci or genes that encoded the virulence factors ofL. pneumophila. Moreover, these isolates showed higher intracellular growth and stronger cytotoxicity compared with the reference strain. These results suggest that ashiyu foot spa can be the original source forL. pneumophilainfection.
Radon Natural Radioactivity Measurements for Evaluation of Primary Pollutants
Authors: Wang Fenjuan , Zhang Zhenyi , Ancora Maria Pia , Deng Xiaodong , Zhang Hua
Published: July 2013

Radon is naturally released from the soil into the surface layer of the atmosphere, and by monitoring the natural radioactivity data of radon and its shot‐live decay products we can get valuable information about the dilution properties of the lower boundary layer. This paper explores the dispersion characteristics of the lower layer of the atmosphere in Lanzhou, China, and the close relationship with the patterns of primary pollutants’ concentrations. Measurements were conducted from July 2007 to May 2008 at one station and a fifty‐day campaign was carried out at two stations in Lanzhou. The interpretation of radon radioactivity measurement showed that the measured atmospheric stability index (ASI) data at two stations in Lanzhou had statistically significant correlation, and well described the lower atmospheric layer mixing property in the area. The temporal trend of PM10 data was consistent with the temporal trend of ASI, with almost twice as high values in December than it in August. The results show that the ASI allows to highlight the dilution factor playing an important role in determining primary pollution events, and the mixing properties of the lower boundary layer is the key factor determining PM10 concentration in urban areas.
Experimental Susceptibility of Gilthead Sea Bream,Sparus aurata,via Challenge withAnisakis pegreffiiLarvae
Authors: Marino Fabio , Lanteri Giovanni , Passantino Annamaria , De Stefano Carmelo , Costa Antonella , Gaglio Gabriella , Macrì Francesco
Published: July 2013

The endoscopic and histopathological findings detected inSparus aurataexperimentally infected with third-stageAnisakislarvae without intermediate host are evaluated and discussed. In six fish, live nematode larvae were introduced by gastroscopy into the stomach. The first observation by endoscope, 15 days after challenge, showed the presence of some larvae at the level of gastric mucosa. An explorative celioscopy, performed 60 days after challenge, showed haemorrhages and/or nodules on the gut of two fishes. Necropsy and histology demonstrated parasites in the context of the tissue changes. The finding of live nematode larvae as well as the evidence of tissue change confirm the experimental susceptibility of gilthead sea bream towardsAnisakis.
A Hybrid Soft Computing Approach for Subset Problems
Authors: Crawford Broderick , Soto Ricardo , Monfroy Eric , Castro Carlos , Palma Wenceslao , Paredes Fernando
Published: July 2013

Subset problems (set partitioning, packing, and covering) are formal models for many practical optimization problems. A set partitioning problem determines how the items in one set (S) can be partitioned into smaller subsets. All items inSmust be contained in one and only one partition. Related problems are set packing (all items must be contained in zero or one partitions) and set covering (all items must be contained in at least one partition). Here, we present a hybrid solver based on ant colony optimization (ACO) combined with arc consistency for solving this kind of problems. ACO is a swarm intelligence metaheuristic inspired on ants behavior when they search for food. It allows to solve complex combinatorial problems for which traditional mathematical techniques may fail. By other side, in constraint programming, the solving process of Constraint Satisfaction Problems can dramatically reduce the search space by means of arc consistency enforcing constraint consistencies either prior to or during search. Our hybrid approach was tested with set covering and set partitioning dataset benchmarks. It was observed that the performance of ACO had been improved embedding this filtering technique in its constructive phase.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Studies of Binuclear Copper(II) Complexes of (2E)-2-(2-Hydroxy-3-Methoxybenzylidene)-4N-Substituted Hydrazinecarbothioamides
Authors: Krishna P. Murali , Shankara B. S. , Reddy N. Shashidhar
Published: July 2013

Four novel binuclear copper(II) complexes [1–4] of (2E)-2-(2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)-4N-substituted hydrazinecarbothioamides, (OH)(OCH3)C6H4CH=NNHC(S)NHR, where R = H (L1), Me (L2), Et (L3), or Ph (L4), have been synthesized and characterized. The FT-IR spectral data suggested the attachment of copper(II) ion to ligand moiety through the azomethine nitrogen, thioketonic sulphur, and phenolic-O. The spectroscopic characterization indicates the dissociation of dimeric complex into mononuclear [Cu(L)Cl] units in polar solvents like DMSO, where L is monoanionic thiosemicarbazone. The DNA binding properties of the complexes with calf thymus (CT) DNA were studied by spectroscopic titration. The complexes show binding affinity to CT DNA with binding constant (Kb) values in the order of 106 M−1. The ligands and their metal complexes were tested for antibacterial and antifungal activities by agar disc diffusion method. Except for complex 4, all complexes showed considerable activity almost equal to the activity of ciprofloxacin. These complexes did not show any effect on Gram-negative bacteria, whereas they showed moderate activity for Gram-positive strains.
Chinese Herbal Medicine Banxiaxiexin Decoction Treating Diabetic Gastroparesis: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Tian Jiaxing , Li Min , Liao Jiangquan , Li Junling , Tong Xiaolin
Published: July 2013

Objective. To assess the current clinical evidence of Banxiaxiexin decoction for diabetic gastroparesis (DGP).Methods. Electronic databases were searched until December 2012. No language limitations were applied. We included RCTs using Banxiaxiexin decoction/modified Banxiaxiexin decoction for DGP. No restriction for the control group except acupuncture. Applying clinical effective rate as the main outcome index. Data extraction, analyses and quality assessment were conducted according to the Cochrane review standards.Results. 16 RCTs involving 1302 patients were finally identified, and the methodological quality was evaluated as generally low. The data showed that the effect of Banxiaxiexin decoction (BXXD) for DGP was superior to the control group (n=1302, RR 1.23, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.29,Z=8.04,P<0.00001). Only one trial recorded adverse events, no obvious adverse event occurred.Conclusions. Banxiaxiexin decoction could regain the gastric emptying rate and improve diabetic gastrointestinal symptoms. However, the methodological quality of included studies is low, and long term efficacy and safety are still uncertain, which indicates that the findings above should be read with caution. Thereby, well-designed, large-scale, and high-quality randomized controlled clinical trials with scientific rigor are warranted for stronger evidence in future research.
An Improved Trust Model Based on Interactive Ant Algorithms and Its Applications in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Pan Yun , Yu Yafang , Yan Li
Published: July 2013

Marmol et al.'s ant algorithm based trust model is improved from several aspects: new interactive ant algorithm, new node types, more reasonable meta-assumption on node behaviors, new trust evaluation function, new penalty mechanism, and so on. Simulations on identifying malicious nodes and electing cluster head show that the proposal is effective and can observably reduce the packet drop ratios.
Simultaneous Determination of Glycyrrhizin and 15 Flavonoids in Licorice and Blood by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Ultraviolet Detector
Authors: Zhang Yongqian , Cao Jin , Wang Yingping , Xiao Shengyuan
Published: July 2013

Licorice is the most frequently used herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with versatile functions. It is also a popular natural dietary supplement. While the dosages is very important for there are some side effects caused by licorice. The composition of licorice, its products should be well determined thereof. A simple method for simultaneous determining sixteen compounds in vary high dynamic range of content has been established. This method based on the detection at the characteristic ultraviolet spectra of different types of compounds in licorice. Glycyrrhizin and fifteen flavonoids were well measured. All of these compounds can be precisely quantified at their characteristic wavelengths. This method has been successfully applied to the analyses of different licorices, Sini Tang decoction, and rat plasma after oral administration of Sini Tang decoction. These compounds were found to be over 3000 times in content (from 0.01 μg/g to 34.5 μg/g) in some samples.
Effects of Crumb Rubber Size and Concentration on Performance of Porous Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Cetin Altan
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of size distribution and concentration of crumb rubber on the performance characteristics of porous asphalt mixture. The recycling of scrap tires in asphalt pavements appears as an important alternative providing a large-scale market. The characteristics of bitumen are very important with regard to service life of porous asphalt pavement. The experimental study consists of two main steps. Firstly, the mixture design was performed to determine the optimum bitumen content. In the latter step, the mixtures were modified by dry process using crumb rubber in three different grain size distributions of #4~#20, #20~#200, and #4~#200 and rubber content of 10%, 15%, and 20% as weight of optimum bitumen. The permeability, Cantabro abrasion loss, indirect tensile strength, moisture susceptibility, and resilient modulus tests were carried out on the specimens. Test results show that #20~#200 sized rubber particles reduced air voids and coefficient of permeability, while they increased the Cantabro abrasion loss. In general, increasing the crumb rubber size and content decreased the performance characteristics of the porous asphalt mixtures.
Microbial Inoculants and Their Impact on Soil Microbial Communities: A Review
Authors: Trabelsi Darine , Mhamdi Ridha
Published: July 2013

The knowledge of the survival of inoculated fungal and bacterial strains in field and the effects of their release on the indigenous microbial communities has been of great interest since the practical use of selected natural or genetically modified microorganisms has been developed. Soil inoculation or seed bacterization may lead to changes in the structure of the indigenous microbial communities, which is important with regard to the safety of introduction of microbes into the environment. Many reports indicate that application of microbial inoculants can influence, at least temporarily, the resident microbial communities. However, the major concern remains regarding how the impact on taxonomic groups can be related to effects on functional capabilities of the soil microbial communities. These changes could be the result of direct effects resulting from trophic competitions and antagonistic/synergic interactions with the resident microbial populations, or indirect effects mediated by enhanced root growth and exudation. Combination of inoculants will not necessarily produce an additive or synergic effect, but rather a competitive process. The extent of the inoculation impact on the subsequent crops in relation to the buffering capacity of the plant-soil-biota is still not well documented and should be the focus of future research.
Hypersensitivity to Suture Anchors
Authors: Goto Masafumi , Gotoh Masafumi , Mitsui Yasuhiro , Tanesue Ryo , Okawa Takahiro , Higuchi Fujio , Shiba Naoto
Published: July 2013

Hypersensitivity to suture anchor is extremely rare. Herein, we present a case in which hypersensitivity to suture anchor was strongly suspected. The right rotator cuff of a 50-year-old woman was repaired with a metal suture anchor. Three weeks after the surgery, she developed erythema around her face, trunk, and hands, accompanied by itching. Infection was unlikely because no abnormalities were detected by blood testing or by medical examination. Suspicious of a metallic allergy, a dermatologist performed a patch testing 6 months after the first surgery. The patient had negative reactions to tests for titanium, aluminum, and vanadium, which were the principal components of the suture anchor. The anchor was removed 7 months after the first surgery, and the erythema disappeared immediately. When allergic symptoms occur and persist after the use of a metal anchor, removal should be considered as a treatment option even if the patch test result is negative.
Framework for Simulation of Heterogeneous MpSoC for Design Space Exploration
Authors: Tafesse Bisrat , Muthukumar Venkatesan
Published: July 2013

Due to the ever-growing requirements in high performance data computation, multiprocessor systems have been proposed to solve the bottlenecks in uniprocessor systems. Developing efficient multiprocessor systems requires effective exploration of design choices like application scheduling, mapping, and architecture design. Also, fault tolerance in multiprocessors needs to be addressed. With the advent of nanometer-process technology for chip manufacturing, realization of multiprocessors on SoC (MpSoC) is an active field of research. Developing efficient low power, fault-tolerant task scheduling, and mapping techniques for MpSoCs require optimized algorithms that consider the various scenarios inherent in multiprocessor environments. Therefore there exists a need to develop a simulation framework to explore and evaluate new algorithms on multiprocessor systems. This work proposes a modular framework for the exploration and evaluation of various design algorithms for MpSoC system. This work also proposes new multiprocessor task scheduling and mapping algorithms for MpSoCs. These algorithms are evaluated using the developed simulation framework. The paper also proposes a dynamic fault-tolerant (FT) scheduling and mapping algorithm for robust application processing. The proposed algorithms consider optimizing the power as one of the design constraints. The framework for a heterogeneous multiprocessor simulation was developed using SystemC/C++ language. Various design variations were implemented and evaluated using standard task graphs. Performance evaluation metrics are evaluated and discussed for various design scenarios.
A Note on Functional Averages over Gaussian Ensembles
Authors: Tucci Gabriel H. , Vega Maria V.
Published: July 2013

We find a new formula for matrix averages over the Gaussian ensemble. LetHbe ann×nGaussian random matrix with complex, independent, and identically distributed entries of zero mean and unit variance. Given ann×npositive definite matrixAand a continuous functionf:ℝ+→ℝsuch that∫0∞‍e-αt|f(t)|2dt<∞for everyα>0, we find a new formula for the expectation𝔼[Tr(f(HAH*))]. Takingf(x)=log(1+x)gives another formula for the capacity of the MIMO communication channel, and takingf(x)=(1+x)-1gives the MMSE achieved by a linear receiver.
Research on Phthalic Acid Esters Removal and Its Health Risk Evaluation by Combined Process for Secondary Effluent of Wastewater Treatment Plant
Authors: Li Simin , Lv Yongkang , Zhao Na
Published: July 2013

This paper analyses the treatment effect of the “coagulation‐sedimentation‐O3‐biological sand filtration‐GAC” combined process on phthalic acid esters in secondary effluent of municipal wastewater treatment plant and meanwhile evaluate its health risk. The results indicated that when the concentrations of DBP and DiOP in secondary effluent were at range of 0.41 mg/L–0.814 mg/L and 0.23 mg/L–0.36 mg/L, the average total removal rates of DBP and DiOP were 85.10% and 68.11%, and the average concentration of DBP and DiOP in effluent were 0.089 mg/L and 0.091 mg/L, respectively. The quality of the effluent met the requirement of the ornamental scenic environment water in The Quality of Urban Wastewater Recycling and Scenic Environment Water (GB/T 18921-2002), and the health risks of DBP and DiOP in effluent were at range of 1.99 × 10−12 –2.15 × 10−12/a and 1.48 × 10−11 –1.85 × 10−11/a, respectively, which is lower than the acceptable maximum risk level: 1.0 × 10−6.
Characterization of Urban Runoff Pollution between Dissolved and Particulate Phases
Authors: Wei Zhang , Simin Li , Fengbing Tang
Published: July 2013

To develop urban stormwater management effectively, characterization of urban runoff pollution between dissolved and particulate phases was studied by 12 rainfall events monitored for five typical urban catchments. The average event mean concentration (AEMC) of runoff pollutants in different phases was evaluated. The AEMC values of runoff pollutants in different phases from urban roads were higher than the ones from urban roofs. The proportions of total dissolved solids, total dissolved nitrogen, and total dissolved phosphorus in total ones for all the catchments were 26.19%–30.91%, 83.29%–90.51%, and 61.54–68.09%, respectively. During rainfall events, the pollutant concentration at the initial stage of rainfall was high and then sharply decreased to a low value. Affected by catchments characterization and rainfall distribution, the highest concentration of road pollutants might appear in the later period of rainfall. Strong correlations were also found among runoffs pollutants in different phases. Total suspended solid could be considered as a surrogate for particulate matters in both road and roof runoff, while dissolved chemical oxygen demand could be regarded as a surrogate for dissolved matters in roof runoff.
Adenocarcinoma of the Right Breast in a Man with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Satgé Daniel , Leduc Bernard , Raffi Fernand , Roux Etienne
Published: July 2013

A 64-year-old man with moderate intellectual disability developed a large right breast carcinoma with lymph node metastases. Cancer treatment is often difficult in persons with intellectual disability. However, the patient could be treated according to the current protocols with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. He is alive and in good health two years after discovery of his tumor. Although breast cancer is estimated as frequent in women with intellectual disability as it is in nondisabled women, our patient is the second man with intellectual disability reported with a breast carcinoma.
Curative Effects of Thiacremonone against Acetaminophen-Induced Acute Hepatic Failure via Inhibition of Proinflammatory Cytokines Production and Infiltration of Cytotoxic Immune Cells and Kupffer Cells
Authors: Kim Yu Ri , Lee Nam Jin , Ban Jung Ok , Yoo Hwan Soo , Lee Yong Moon , Yoon Yeo Pyo , Eum So Young , Jeong Heon Sang , Yoon Do-young , Han Sang Bae , Hong Jin Tae
Published: July 2013

High doses of acetaminophen (APAP;N-acetyl-p-aminophenol) cause severe hepatotoxicity after metabolic activation by cytochrome P450 2E1. This study was undertaken to examine the preventive effects of thiacremonone, a compound extracted from garlic, on APAP-induced acute hepatic failure in male C57BL/6J. Mice received with 500 mg/kg APAP after a 7-day pretreatment with thiacremonone (10–50 mg/kg). Thiacremonone inhibited the APAP-induced serum ALT and AST levels in a dose-dependent manner, and markedly reduced the restricted area of necrosis and inflammation by administration of APAP. Thiacremonone also inhibited the APAP-induced depletion of intracellular GSH, induction of nitric oxide, and lipid peroxidation as well as expression of P450 2E1. After APAP injection, the numbers of Kupffer cells, natural killer cells, and cytotoxic T cells were elevated, but the elevated cell numbers in the liver were reduced in thiacremonone pretreated mice. The expression levels of I-309, M-CSF, MIG, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, IL-7, and IL-17 were increased by APAP treatment, which were inhibited in thiacremonone pretreated mice. These data indicate that thiacremonone could be a useful agent for the treatment of drug-induced hepatic failure and that the reduction of cytotoxic immune cells as well as proinflammatory cytokine production may be critical for the prevention of APAP-induced acute liver toxicity.
Chemoprevention of Endometrial Cancer in Lynch Syndrome: A Step Forward
Authors: Stoffel Elena M. , Walsh Christine
Published: July 2013

Lynch syndrome is one of the most common hereditary cancer syndromes. Although Lynch syndrome is associated with increased risk for developing colorectal, endometrial, and other cancers specialized screening, risk-reducing surgery, and chemoprevention offer promise for reducing morbidity and mortality. Frequent colonoscopic surveillance has proven effective for early detection and prevention of Lynch syndrome-associated colorectal cancer; however, the optimal strategy for managing endometrial cancer risks in women with germline mutations in DNA mismatch repair genes has yet to be determined. In this issue of Cancer Prevention Research, Lu and colleagues report their findings of a phase II prospective, multicenter randomized trial comparing the effects of oral contraceptive pills and Depo-Provera on endometrial proliferation in women with Lynch syndrome. Although short-term hormonal treatment with either modality altered endometrial proliferation indices, it remains unknown whether hormonal suppression actually reduces endometrial cancer risk in women with Lynch syndrome. This trial represents the first of its kind in evaluating agents which might offer protection against Lynch syndrome-associated endometrial cancer and provides preliminary data regarding potential biomarkers for early detection of endometrial neoplasia. The investigators' experience with this trial also offers insights regarding the various technical and scientific challenges inherent in chemoprevention research. Cancer Prev Res; 6(8); 755–9. ©2013 AACR.
Exploiting the Head and Neck Cancer Oncogenome: Widespread PI3K-mTOR Pathway Alterations and Novel Molecular Targets
Authors: Iglesias-Bartolome Ramiro , Martin Daniel , Gutkind J. Silvio
Published: July 2013

Summary: Two studies published in this issue of Cancer Discovery describe the emerging mutational landscape of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and their genomic and epigenetic alterations, thus identifying novel actionable cancer drivers and predictive biomarkers for targeted therapies. Most genomic alterations in HNSCC converge in a handful of molecular pathways, resulting in cell-cycle deregulation, genomic instability, cell differentiation defects, and persistent mitogenic signaling, the latter involving aberrant phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/mTOR pathway activation, thereby rendering HNSCC responsive to PI3K/mTOR inhibitors. Cancer Discov; 3(7); 722–5. ©2013 AACR.

See related article by Lui et al., p. 761

See related article by Pickering et al., p. 770
Central Nervous System Lymphoma Newly Developed 12 Years after Remission of an Ocular Adnexal Lymphoma
Authors: Morikawa Keiko , Tsuji Takahiro , Yamasaki Hiroshi , Toyozumi Yasuo , Arima Nobuyuki , Ohshima Koichi , Tsuda Hiroyuki
Published: July 2013

Recurrence of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma more than 5 years after the initial diagnosis is rare. When late relapse occurs, it is difficult to determine whether it is a true recurrence or a new lesion. We experienced a case of an 81-year-old woman who developed central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma 12 years after remission of ocular adnexal lymphoma. Both showed the histology of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. To elucidate whether the CNS lymphoma was clonally related to the first lymphoma, rearrangement of the immunoglobulin heavy chain genes of each lymphoma was studied using a polymerase chain reaction-based method. The results revealed that the sizes of the amplified products of the rearranged regions from the two lymphomas were different. This suggested different clonal origins of the lymphomas. It is clinically important to determine the origin of a second neoplasm because patients with a clonally related second lymphoma are usually treated with more intensive regimens, while those with a clonally unrelated lymphoma receive standard first-line therapy. The present case shows that, in the case of recurrent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, not only histological confirmation but also genetic assessment is important to clarify the origin of the second lymphoma.
What Do Parents Have to Do with My Cognitive Reserve Life Course Perspectives on Twelve-Year Cognitive Decline
Authors: González Hector M. , Tarraf Wassim , Bowen Mary E. , Johnson-Jennings Michelle D. , Fisher Gwenith G.
Published: July 2013

Background/Aims: To examine the cognitive reserve hypothesis by comparing the contribution of early childhood and life course factors related to cognitive functioning in a nationally representative sample of older Americans. Methods: We examined a prospective, national probability cohort study (Health and Retirement Study; 1998-2010) of older adults (n = 8,833) in the contiguous 48 United States. The main cognitive functioning outcome was a 35-point composite of memory (recall), mental status, and working memory tests. The main predictors were childhood socioeconomic position (SEP) and health, and individual-level adult achievement and health. Results: Individual-level achievement indicators (i.e., education, income, and wealth) were positively and significantly associated with baseline cognitive function, while adult health was negatively associated with cognitive function. Controlling for individual-level adult achievement and other model covariates, childhood health presented a relatively small negative, but statistically significant association with initial cognitive function. Neither individual achievement nor childhood SEP was statistically linked to decline over time. Conclusions: Cognitive reserve purportedly acquired through learning and mental stimulation across the life course was associated with higher initial global cognitive functioning over the 12-year period in this nationally representative study of older Americans. We found little supporting evidence that childhood economic conditions were negatively associated with cognitive function and change, particularly when individual-level achievement is considered.
Monitoring of Plasma Cell-Free DNA in Predicting Postoperative Recurrence of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wan JingJing , Zhu LiJun , Jiang ZhiQiang , Cheng Ke
Published: July 2013

Background: Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) mostly originates from tumors and its level correlates with treatment. We assessed whether the level of plasma cfDNA could help monitor recurrence after nephrectomy. Methods: This study included 92 patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (cRCC). Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure the level of plasma cfDNA before and after nephrectomy. Results: The pretreatment level of plasma cfDNA in patients with metastatic cRCC (6.04 ± 0.72) was significantly higher than in those with localized cRCC (5.29 ± 0.53, p = 0.017) or controls (0.65 ± 0.29, p < 0.001). Of patients with localized cRCC, those with recurrence had a significantly higher plasma cfDNA level than those without (p = 0.024). The patients with a high plasma cfDNA level had a significantly higher recurrence rate than those with a low plasma cfDNA level before and after nephrectomy (p = 0.018). Conclusion: The level of plasma cfDNA may be useful as a tool to monitor patients during follow-up and guide further diagnostic work-up for the detection of recurrence.