bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adult Neuroplasticity: More Than 40 Years of Research
Authors: Fuchs Eberhard , Flügge Gabriele
Published: May 2014

Within the last four decades, our view of the mature vertebrate brain has changed significantly. Today it is generally accepted that the adult brain is far from being fixed. A number of factors such as stress, adrenal and gonadal hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, certain drugs, environmental stimulation, learning, and aging change neuronal structures and functions. The processes that these factors may induce are morphological alterations in brain areas, changes in neuron morphology, network alterations including changes in neuronal connectivity, the generation of new neurons (neurogenesis), and neurobiochemical changes. Here we review several aspects of neuroplasticity and discuss the functional implications of the neuroplastic capacities of the adult and differentiated brain with reference to the history of their discovery.
A Survey of Noninteractive Zero Knowledge Proof System and Its Applications
Authors: Wu Huixin , Wang Feng
Published: May 2014

Zero knowledge proof system which has received extensive attention since it was proposed is an important branch of cryptography and computational complexity theory. Thereinto, noninteractive zero knowledge proof system contains only one message sent by the prover to the verifier. It is widely used in the construction of various types of cryptographic protocols and cryptographic algorithms because of its good privacy, authentication, and lower interactive complexity. This paper reviews and analyzes the basic principles of noninteractive zero knowledge proof system, and summarizes the research progress achieved by noninteractive zero knowledge proof system on the following aspects: the definition and related models of noninteractive zero knowledge proof system, noninteractive zero knowledge proof system of NP problems, noninteractive statistical and perfect zero knowledge, the connection between noninteractive zero knowledge proof system, interactive zero knowledge proof system, and zap, and the specific applications of noninteractive zero knowledge proof system. This paper also points out the future research directions.
Serum C-Reactive Protein and Procalcitonin Kinetics in Patients Undergoing Elective Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Battistelli Sandra , Fortina Mattia , Carta Serafino , Guerranti Roberto , Nobile Francesco , Ferrata Paolo
Published: May 2014

Background. The sensitivity and the specificity of different methods to detect periprosthetic infection have been questioned. The current study aimed to investigate the kinetics of C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) in patients undergoing uncomplicated elective total hip arthroplasty (THA), to provide a better interpretation of their levels in noninfectious inflammatory reaction.Methods. A total of 51 patients were included. Serum CRP and PCT concentrations were obtained before surgery, on the 1st, 3rd, and 7th postoperative days and after discharge on the 14th and 30th days and at 2 years.Results. Both markers were confirmed to increase after surgery. The serum CRP showed a marked increase on the 3rd postoperative day while the peak of serum PCT was earlier, even if much lower, on the first day. Then, they declined slowly approaching the baseline values by the second postoperative week. PCT mean values never exceed concentrations typically related to bacterial infections.Conclusions. CRP is very sensitive to inflammation. It could be the routine screening test in the follow-up of THA orthopaedic patients, but it should be complemented by PCT when there is the clinical suspicion of periprosthetic infection.
Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of the Bioactive Compound Ferulic Acid Contained in Oldenlandia diffusa on Collagen‐Induced Arthritis in Rats
Authors: Zhu Hao , Liang Qing-Hua , Xiong Xin-Gui , Chen Jiang , Wu Dan , Wang Yang , Yang Bo , Zhang Yang , Zhang Yong , Huang Xi
Published: May 2014

Objectives. This study aimed to identify the active compounds in Oldenlandia diffusa (OD) decoction and the compounds absorbed into plasma, and to determine whether the absorbed compounds derived from OD exerted any anti‐inflammatory effects in rats with collagen induced arthritis (CIA). Methods. The UPLC‐PDA (Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography Photo‐Diode Array) method was applied to identify the active compounds both in the decoction and rat plasma. The absorbable compound was administered to the CIA rats, and the effects were dynamically observed. X‐ray films of the joints and HE stain of synovial tissues were analyzed. The levels of IL‐1β and TNF‐α in the rats from each group were measured by means of ELISA. The absorbed compound in the plasma of CIA rats was identified as ferulic acid (FA), following OD decoction administration. Two weeks after the administration of FA solution or OD decoction, the general conditions improved compared to the model group. The anti‐inflammatory effect of FA was inferior to that of the OD decoction (P < 0.05), based on a comparison of IL‐1β TNF‐α levels. FA from the OD decoction was absorbed into the body of CIA rats, where it elicited anti‐inflammatory responses in rats with CIA. Conclusions. These results suggest that FA is the bioactive compound in OD decoction, and FA exerts its effects through anti‐inflammatory pathways.
The Maternal Brain: An Organ with Peripartal Plasticity
Authors: Hillerer Katharina Maria , Jacobs Volker Rudolf , Fischer Thorsten , Aigner Ludwig
Published: May 2014

The time of pregnancy, birth, and lactation, is characterized by numerous specific alterations in several systems of the maternal body. Peripartum-associated changes in physiology and behavior, as well as their underlying molecular mechanisms, have been the focus of research since decades, but are still far from being entirely understood. Also, there is growing evidence that pregnancy and lactation are associated with a variety of alterations in neural plasticity, including adult neurogenesis, functional and structural synaptic plasticity, and dendritic remodeling in different brain regions. All of the mentioned changes are not only believed to be a prerequisite for the proper fetal and neonatal development, but moreover to be crucial for the physiological and mental health of the mother. The underlying mechanisms apparently need to be under tight control, since in cases of dysregulation, a certain percentage of women develop disorders like preeclampsia or postpartum mood and anxiety disorders during the course of pregnancy and lactation. This review describes common peripartum adaptations in physiology and behavior. Moreover, it concentrates on different forms of peripartum-associated plasticity including changes in neurogenesis and their possible underlying molecular mechanisms. Finally, consequences of malfunction in those systems are discussed.
Estimated Visceral Adipose Tissue, but Not Body Mass Index, Is Associated with Reductions in Glomerular Filtration Rate Based on Cystatin C in the Early Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: França Ana Karina Teixeira da Cunha , Santos Alcione Miranda dos , Salgado João Victor , Hortegal Elane Viana , Silva Antônio Augusto Moura da , Salgado Filho Natalino
Published: May 2014

Information on the association between obesity and initial phases of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is still limited, principally those regarding the influence of visceral adipose tissue. We investigated whether the visceral adipose tissue is more associated with reductions in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) than total and abdominal obesity in hypertensive individuals with stage 1-2 CKD. A cross-sectional study was implemented which involved 241 hypertensive patients undergoing treatment at a primary health care facility. GFR was estimated using equations based on creatinine and cystatin C levels. Explanatory variables included body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and estimated visceral adipose tissue (eVAT). The mean age was59.6±9.2years old and 75.9% were female. According to BMI, 28.2% of subjects were obese. Prevalence of increased WC and eVAT was 63.9% and 58.5%, respectively. Results from the assessment of GFR by BMI, WC, and eVAT categories showed that only women with increased eVAT (≥150 cm2) had a lower mean GFR by Larsson (P=0.016), Levey 2 (P=0.005), and Levey 3 (P=0.008) equations. The same result was not observed when the MDRD equation was employed. No association was found between BMI, WC, eVAT, and GFR using only serum creatinine. In the early stages of CKD, increased eVAT in hypertensive women was associated with decreased GFR based on cystatin C.
Derivation of Conservation Laws for the Magma Equation Using the Multiplier Method: Power Law and Exponential Law for Permeability and Viscosity
Authors: Mindu N. , Mason D. P.
Published: May 2014

The derivation of conservation laws for the magma equation using the multiplier method for both the power law and exponential law relating the permeability and matrix viscosity to the voidage is considered. It is found that all known conserved vectors for the magma equation and the new conserved vectors for the exponential laws can be derived using multipliers which depend on the voidage and spatial derivatives of the voidage. It is also found that the conserved vectors are associated with the Lie point symmetry of the magma equation which generates travelling wave solutions which may explain by the double reduction theorem for associated Lie point symmetries why many of the known analytical solutions are travelling waves.
Exploring Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling with Resampling Visualization
Authors: Zuo Fenghua , Li Jun , Sun Xiaoyong
Published: May 2014

Background. In the last decade, population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) modeling has spread its influence in the whole process of drug research and development. While targeting the construction of the dose-concentration of a drug based on a population of patients, it shows great flexibility in dealing with sparse samplings and unbalanced designs. The resampling approach has been considered an important statistical tool to assist in PopPK model validation by measuring the uncertainty of parameter estimates and evaluating the influence of individuals.Methods. The current work describes a graphical diagnostic approach for PopPK models by visualizing resampling statistics, such as case deletion and bootstrap. To examine resampling statistics, we adapted visual methods from multivariate analysis, parallel coordinate plots, and multidimensional scaling.Results. Multiple models were fitted, the information of parameter estimates and diagnostics were extracted, and the results were visualized. With careful scaling, the dependencies between different statistics are revealed. Using typical examples, the approach proved to have great capacity to identify influential outliers from the statistical perspective, which deserves special attention in a dosing regimen.Discussion. By combining static graphics with interactive graphics, we are able to explore the multidimensional data from an integrated and systematic perspective. Complementary to current approaches, our proposed method provides a new way for PopPK modeling analysis.
Physicochemical Properties and Surfaces Morphologies Evaluation of MTA FillApex and AH Plus
Authors: Borges Álvaro Henrique , Orçati Dorileo Maura Cristiane Gonçales , Villa Ricardo Dalla , Borba Alexandre Meireles , Semenoff Tereza Aparecida Delle Vedove , Guedes Orlando Aguirre , Estrela Cyntia Rodrigues Araújo , Bandeca Matheus Coelho
Published: May 2014

The solubility, pH, electrical conductivity, and radiopacity of AH Plus and MTA FillApex were evaluated. In addition, the surfaces morphologies of the sealers were analyzed by using scanning electron microscopy. For pH test, the samples were immersed in distilled water at different periods of time. The same solution was used for electrical conductivity measurement. The solubility and radiopacity were evaluated according to ANSI/ADA. Statistical analyses were carried out at 5% level of significance. MTA FillApex presented higher mean value for solubility and electrical conductivity. No significant difference was observed in the mean values for pH reading. AH Plus presented higher radiopacity mean values. MTA FillApex presented an external surface with porosities and a wide range of sizes. In conclusion, the materials fulfill the ANSI/ADA requirements when considering the radiopacity and solubility. AH Plus revealed a compact and homogeneous surface with more regular aspects and equal particle sizes.
Recent Advances inLp-Theory of Homotopy Operator on Differential Forms
Authors: Ding Shusen , Shi Peilin , Wang Yong
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this survey paper is to present an up-to-date account of the recent advances made in the study ofLp-theory of the homotopy operator applied to differential forms. Specifically, we will discuss various local and global norm estimates for the homotopy operatorTand its compositions with other operators, such as Green’s operator and potential operator.
Vibration Characteristics of Piezoelectric Microbeams Based on the Modified Couple Stress Theory
Authors: Ansari R. , Ashrafi M. A. , Hosseinzadeh S.
Published: May 2014

The vibration behavior of piezoelectric microbeams is studied on the basis of the modified couple stress theory. The governing equations of motion and boundary conditions for the Euler-Bernoulli and Timoshenko beam models are derived using Hamilton’s principle. By the exact solution of the governing equations, an expression for natural frequencies of microbeams with simply supported boundary conditions is obtained. Numerical results for both beam models are presented and the effects of piezoelectricity and length scale parameter are illustrated. It is found that the influences of piezoelectricity and size effects are more prominent when the length of microbeams decreases. A comparison between two beam models also reveals that the Euler-Bernoulli beam model tends to overestimate the natural frequencies of microbeams as compared to its Timoshenko counterpart.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of the Nicotinergic Peptides SLURP-1 and SLURP-2 on Human Intestinal Epithelial Cells and Immunocytes
Authors: Chernyavsky Alex I. , Galitovskiy Valentin , Shchepotin Igor B. , Grando Sergei A.
Published: May 2014

A search for novel and more efficient therapeutic modalities of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is one of the most important tasks of contemporary medicine. The anti-inflammatory action of nicotine in IBD might be therapeutic, but its toxicity due to off-target and nonreceptor effects limited its use and prompted a search for nontoxic nicotinergic drugs. We tested the hypothesis that SLURP-1 and -2—the physiological nicotinergic substances produced by the human intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) and immunocytes—can mimic the anti-inflammatory effects of nicotine. We used human CCL-241 enterocytes, CCL-248 colonocytes, CCRF-CEM T-cells, and U937 macrophages. SLURP-1 diminished the TLR9-dependent secretion of IL-8 by CCL-241, and IFNγ-induced upregulation of ICAM-1 in both IEC types. rSLURP-2 inhibited IL-1β-induced secretion of IL-6 and TLR4- and TLR9-dependent induction of CXCL10 and IL-8, respectively, in CCL-241. rSLURP-1 decreased production of TNFαby T-cells, downregulated IL-1βand IL-6 secretion by macrophages, and moderately upregulated IL-10 production by both types of immunocytes. SLURP-2 downregulated TNFαand IFNγR in T-cells and reduced IL-6 production by macrophages. Combining both SLURPs amplified their anti-inflammatory effects. Learning the pharmacology of SLURP-1 and -2 actions on enterocytes, colonocytes, T cells, and macrophages may help develop novel effective treatments of IBD.
Solvability and Stability of Impulsive Set Dynamic Equations on Time Scales
Authors: Hong Shihuang , Gao Jing , Peng Yingzi
Published: May 2014

A class of new nonlinear impulsive set dynamic equations is considered based on a new generalized derivative of set-valued functions developed on time scales in this paper. Some novel criteria are established for the existence and stability of solutions of such model. The approaches generalize and incorporate as special cases many known results for set (or fuzzy) differential equations and difference equations when the time scale is the set of the real numbers or the integers, respectively. Finally, some examples show the applicability of our results.
Event-Based Clustering Architecture for Power Efficiency in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Yang Kai-Ting , Lai Wei Kuang , Li Shu-Min , Lin Yuh-Chung
Published: May 2014

In order to set up WSN in various rigorous environments, the size and power constraints are stricter due to the high demands for convenience and reliability. Therefore, power efficiency is very important for a WSN. For this, a novel architecture is presented in this paper. The proposed architecture categorizes sensors into different clusters by events. In each cluster, a minimum spanning tree is constructed for intracluster routing. The hierarchical architecture is useful in reducing the power consumption. In each intracluster routing tree, only leaf nodes are responsible for periodical detection. Data transmissions only occur when abnormal events are detected. An abnormality will be reported to the data center only if the majority of cluster members sense the same event. By reducing unnecessary data transmissions and shortening transmission distances, the proposed mechanism significantly reduces the power consumption and prolongs the network lifetime without influencing the accuracy of event response. The simulations show that the proposed architecture has about an 18-fold improvement rate in the device lifetime and avoids the false positive caused by the erroneous alarm of a single sensor. The proposed architecture is feasible, practical, and highly applicable to many applications.
Evaluation of Preclinical Assays to Investigate an Anthroposophic Pharmaceutical Process Applied to Mistletoe (Viscum album L.) Extracts
Authors: Baumgartner Stephan , Flückiger Heidi , Kunz Matthias , Scherr Claudia , Urech Konrad
Published: May 2014

Extracts from European mistletoe (Viscum album L.) developed in anthroposophic medicine are based on specific pharmaceutical procedures to enhance remedy efficacy. One such anthroposophic pharmaceutical process was evaluated regarding effects on cancer cell toxicity in vitro and on colchicine tumor formation in Lepidium sativum. Anthroposophically processed Viscum album extract (APVAE) was produced by mixing winter and summer mistletoe extracts in the edge of a high‐speed rotating disk and was compared with manually mixed Viscum album extract (VAE). The antiproliferative effect of VAE/APVAE was determined in five cell lines (NCI‐H460, DU‐145, HCC1143, MV3, and PA‐TU‐8902) by WST‐1 assay in vitro; no difference was found between VAE and APVAE in any cell line tested (P > 0.14). Incidence of colchicine tumor formation was assessed by measurement of the root/shoot‐ratio of seedlings of Lepidium sativum treated with colchicine as well as VAE, APVAE, or water. Colchicine tumor formation decreased after application of VAE (−5.4% compared to water, P < 0.001) and was even stronger by APVAE (−8.8% compared to water, P < 0.001). The high‐speed mistletoe extract mixing process investigated thus did not influence toxicity against cancer cells but seemed to sustain morphostasis and to enhance resistance against external noxious influences leading to phenomenological malformations.
Impairment of Electron Transfer Chain Induced by Acute Carnosine Administration in Skeletal Muscle of Young Rats
Authors: Macarini José Roberto , Maravai Soliany Grassi , Cararo José Henrique , Dimer Nádia Webber , Gonçalves Cinara Ludvig , Kist Luiza Wilges , Bogo Mauricio Reis , Schuck Patrícia Fernanda , Streck Emilio Luiz , Ferreira Gustavo Costa
Published: May 2014

Serum carnosinase deficiency is an inherited disorder that leads to an accumulation of carnosine in the brain tissue, cerebrospinal fluid, skeletal muscle, and other tissues of affected patients. Considering that high levels of carnosine are associated with neurological dysfunction and that the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in serum carnosinase deficiency remain poorly understood, we investigated thein vivoeffects of carnosine on bioenergetics parameters, namely, respiratory chain complexes (I–III, II, and II-III), malate dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase, and creatine kinase activities and the expression of mitochondrial-specific transcription factors (NRF-1, PGC-1α, andTFAM) in skeletal muscle of young Wistar rats. We observed a significant decrease of complexes I–III and II activities in animals receiving carnosine acutely, as compared to control group. However, no significant alterations in respiratory chain complexes, citric acid cycle enzymes, and creatine kinase activities were found between rats receiving carnosine chronically and control group animals. As compared to control group, mRNA levels ofNRF-1, PGC-1α, andTFAMwere unchanged. The present findings indicate that electron transfer through the respiratory chain is impaired in skeletal muscle of rats receiving carnosine acutely. In case these findings are confirmed by further studies and ATP depletion is also observed, impairment of bioenergetics could be considered a putative mechanism responsible for the muscle damage observed in serum carnosinase-deficient patients.
A New Legendre Collocation Method for Solving a Two-Dimensional Fractional Diffusion Equation
Authors: Bhrawy A. H.
Published: May 2014

A new spectral shifted Legendre Gauss-Lobatto collocation (SL-GL-C) method is developed and analyzed to solve a class of two-dimensional initial-boundary fractional diffusion equations with variable coefficients. The method depends basically on the fact that an expansion in a series of shifted Legendre polynomialsPL,n(x)PL,m(y), for the function and its space-fractional derivatives occurring in the partial fractional differential equation (PFDE), is assumed; the expansion coefficients are then determined by reducing the PFDE with its boundary and initial conditions to a system of ordinary differential equations (SODEs) for these coefficients. This system may be solved numerically by using the fourth-order implicit Runge-Kutta (IRK) method. This method, in contrast to common finite-difference and finite-element methods, has the exponential rate of convergence for the two spatial discretizations. Numerical examples are presented in the form of tables and graphs to make comparisons with the results obtained by other methods and with the exact solutions more easier.
Monitoring the Invasion ofSpartina alternifloraUsing Very High Resolution Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Imagery in Beihai, Guangxi (China)
Authors: Wan Huawei , Wang Qiao , Jiang Dong , Fu Jingying , Yang Yipeng , Liu Xiaoman
Published: May 2014

Spartina alterniflorawas introduced to Beihai, Guangxi (China), for ecological engineering purposes in 1979. However, the exceptional adaptability and reproductive ability of this species have led to its extensive dispersal into other habitats, where it has had a negative impact on native species and threatens the local mangrove and mudflat ecosystems. To obtain the distribution and spread ofSpartina alterniflora, we collected HJ-1 CCD imagery from 2009 and 2011 and very high resolution (VHR) imagery from the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The invasion area ofSpartina alterniflorawas 357.2 ha in 2011, which increased by 19.07% compared with the area in 2009. A field survey was conducted for verification and the total accuracy was 94.0%. The results of this paper show that VHR imagery can provide details on distribution, progress, and early detection ofSpartina alterniflorainvasion. OBIA, object based image analysis for remote sensing (RS) detection method, can enable control measures to be more effective, accurate, and less expensive than a field survey of the invasive population.
Commutators of Singular Integral Operators Satisfying a Variant of a Lipschitz Condition
Authors: Zhang Pu , Zhang Daiqing
Published: May 2014

LetTbe a singular integral operator with its kernel satisfying|K(x-y)-∑k=1ℓ‍Bk(x)ϕk(y)|≤C|y|γ/|x-y|n+γ,|x|>2|y|>0, whereBkandϕk  (k=1,…,ℓ)are appropriate functions andγandCare positive constants. Forb→=(b1,…,bm)withbj∈BMO(ℝn), the multilinear commutatorTb→generated byTandb→is formally defined byTb→f(x)=∫ℝn∏j=1m‍(bj(x)-bj(y))K(x,y)f(y)dy. In this paper, the weightedLp-boundedness and the weighted weak typeLlog⁡Lestimate for the multilinear commutatorTb→are established.
Effect of Mesalamine and Prednisolone on TNBS Experimental Colitis, following Various Doses of Orally Administered Iron
Authors: Triantafillidis John K. , Douvi Georgia , Agrogiannis George , Patsouris Efstratios , Gikas Aristofanis , Papalois Apostolos E.
Published: May 2014

Background. Experimental data suggest that oral iron (I.) supplementation can worsen colitis in animals.Aim. To investigate the influence of various concentrations of orally administered I. in normal gut mucosa and mucosa of animals with TNBS colitis, as well as the influence of Mesalamine (M.) and Prednisolone (P.) on the severity of TNBS colitis following orally administered I.Methods and Materials. 156 Wistar rats were allocated into 10 groups. Colitis was induced by TNBS. On the 8th day, all animals were euthanatized. Activity of colitis and extent of tissue damage were assessed histologically. The levels of tissue tumor necrosis factor-α(t-TNF-α) and tissue malondialdehyde (t-MDA) were estimated in all animal groups.Results. Moderate and high I. supplementation induced inflammation in the healthy colon and increased the activity of the experimentally induced TNBS colitis. Administration of M. on TNBS colitis following moderate iron supplementation (0.3 g/Kg diet) resulted in a significant improvement in the overall histological score as well as in two individual histological parameters. M. administration, however, did not significantly reduce the t-TNF-αlevels (17.67±4.92versus14.58±5.71,P=0.102), although it significantly reduced the t-MDA levels (5.79±1.55versus3.67±1.39,P=0.000). Administration of M. on TNBS colitis following high iron supplementation (3.0 g/Kg diet) did not improve the overall histological score and the individual histological parameters, neither reduced the levels of t-TNF-α(16.57 ± 5.61versus14.65±3.88,P=0.296). However, M. significantly reduced the t-MDA levels (5.99±1.37versus4.04±1.41,P=0.000). Administration of P. on TNBS colitis after moderate iron supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in the overall histological score as well as in three individual histological parameters. P. also resulted in a significant reduction in the t-TNF-αlevels (17.67±4.92versus12.64±3.97,P=0.003) and the t-MDA levels (5.79±1.54versus3.47±1.21,P=0.001). Administration of P on TNBS colitis after high I. supplementation resulted in a significant improvement of the overall histological score and three individual histological parameters and significantly reduced the levels of t-TNF-α(16.6±5.6versus11.85±1.3,P=0.001).Conclusion. I. can induce colonic inflammation and aggravate TNBS colitis. M. and P. can significantly improve the inflammatory process in the colonic mucosa in TNBS colitis aggravated by orally administered I. P. has a stable anti-TNF-αeffect. These findings suggest that the harmful.
Mucinous Cystadenoma Arising in a Mature Cystic Teratoma in a 25-Year-Old Patient
Authors: Pintea Michelle D.
Published: May 2014

Coexistence of a mucinous cystadenoma arising in a mature cystic teratoma is infrequently reported. Herein a case of a 25-year-old woman diagnosed with a right ovarian mucinous cystadenoma arising in a mature cystic teratoma is reported. She presented with lower right abdominal discomfort. Ultrasound showed a14.8×7.9×12.5 cm structure on the right adnexa. She underwent a diagnostic laparoscopy, which was converted to exploratory laparotomy, during which a right salpingo-oophorectomy was performed.
Iterative Solutions of a Set of Matrix Equations by Using the Hierarchical Identification Principle
Authors: Zhang Huamin
Published: May 2014

This paper is concerned with iterative solution to a class of the real coupled matrix equations. By using the hierarchical identification principle, a gradient-based iterative algorithm is constructed to solve the real coupled matrix equationsA1XB1+A2XB2=F1andC1XD1+C2XD2=F2. The range of the convergence factor is derived to guarantee that the iterative algorithm is convergent for any initial value. The analysis indicates that if the coupled matrix equations have a unique solution, then the iterative solution converges fast to the exact one for any initial value under proper conditions. A numerical example is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
A Self-Reconfigurable Platform for the Implementation of 2D Filterbanks with Real and Complex-Valued Inputs, Outputs, and Filter Coefficients
Authors: Llamocca Daniel , Pattichis Marios
Published: May 2014

We introduce a dynamically reconfigurable 2D filterbank that supports both real and complex-valued inputs, outputs, and filter coefficients. This general purpose filterbank allows for the efficient implementation of 2D filterbanks based on separable 2D FIR filters that support all possible combinations of input and output signals. The system relies on the use of dynamic reconfiguration of real/complex one-dimensional filters to minimize the required hardware resources. The system is demonstrated using an equiripple and a Gabor filterbank and the results using both real and complex-valued input images. We summarize the performance of the system in terms of the required processing times, energy, and accuracy.
SEL Series Expansion and Generalized Model Construction for the Real Number System via Series of Rationals
Authors: Singthongla Patiwat , Kanasri Narakorn Rompurk
Published: May 2014

We present an algorithm for constructing infinite series expansion for real numbers, which yields generalized versions of three famous series expansions, namely, Sylvester series, Engel series, and Lüroth series expansions. Using series of rationals, a generalized model for the real number system is also constructed.
Median Nerve Compression in Carpal Tunnel Caused by a Giant Lipoma
Authors: Fazilleau F. , Williams T. , Richou J. , Sauleau V. , Le Nen D.
Published: May 2014

A lipoma is a common, benign soft-tissue tumor that rarely arises in the upper limb. When one does occur in the hand, the location of the lipoma can cause nerve compression, which can mimic carpal tunnel symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging is the visualization modality of choice for diagnosis and surgical planning of lipomas. Surgical resection is recommended to relieve the neurological manifestations of this disease. The surgeon should always suspect liposarcoma first before voluminous, atypical, or recurrent tumors are considered.
Distributed Consensus‐Based Robust Adaptive Formation Control for Nonholonomic Mobile Robots with Partial Known Dynamics
Authors: Peng Zhaoxia , Yang Shichun , Wen Guoguang , Rahmani Ahmed
Published: May 2014

This paper investigates the distributed consensus‐based robust adaptive formation control for nonholonomic mobile robots with partially known dynamics. Firstly, multirobot formation control problem has been converted into a state consensus problem. Secondly, the practical control strategies, which incorporate the distributed kinematic controllers and the robust adaptive torque controllers, are designed for solving the formation control problem. Thirdly, the specified reference trajectory for the geometric centroid of the formation is assumed as the trajectory of a virtual leader, whose information is available to only a subset of the followers. Finally, numerical results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control approaches.
Proteolytic Activity Present in House-Dust-Mite Extracts Degrades ENA-78/CXCL5 and Reduces Neutrophil Migration
Authors: Keglowich Laura , Tamm Michael , Zhong Jun , Miglino Nicola , Borger Pieter
Published: May 2014

Background.Bronchial smooth muscle cells (BSMC) are a major source of proinflammatory and proangiogenic cytokines and chemokines, including VEGF and CXC-chemokines. CXC-chemokines act primarily on neutrophils, mediating their recruitment to and activation at the site of inflammation. In humans, house-dust mite (HDM) allergens can cause asthmatic exacerbations and trigger an inflammatory response through protease-dependent mechanisms.Objective.We investigated the effect HDM extract on the release of pro-angiogenic and proinflammatory cytokines from BSMC.Methods.Human primary BSMC were stimulated with HDM extract in the absence or presence of fetal calf serum (FCS). Twenty angiogenic cytokines were detected by a specific antibody array and modified protein levels were confirmed by ELISA. Neutrophil migration was measured using a 96-well Boyden chamber.Results.ENA-78/CXCL5 protein levels in conditioned medium of BSMC stimulated with HDM extract were significantly reduced (n=10,P<0.05) but restored in the presence of 5% FCS. HDM extracts did not affect ENA-78/CXCL5 mRNA levels. Recombinant ENA-78/CXCL5 was degraded after incubation with HDM extracts (n=7,P<0.05) but restored after the addition of the serine protease AEBSF. Neutrophil migration towards recombinant ENA-78/CXCL5 was also reduced in the presence of HDM extract.Conclusion.HDM proteases degrade ENA-78/CXCL5. Thus exposure to HDM allergens may alter ENA-78/CXCL5 levels in the lungs and may affect angiogenesis and the inflammatory response in the airways of asthma patients.
Mathematical Foundations for Efficient Structural Controllability and Observability Analysis of Complex Systems
Authors: Zufiria Pedro J. , Úbeda-Medina Luis , Herrera-Yagüe Carlos , Barriales-Valbuena Iker
Published: May 2014

The relationship between structural controllability and observability of complex systems is studied. Algebraic and graph theoretic tools are combined to prove the extent of some controller/observer duality results. Two types of control design problems are addressed and some fundamental theoretical results are provided. In addition new algorithms are presented to compute optimal solutions for monitoring large scale real networks.
Genus Caulophyllum: An Overview of Chemistry and Bioactivity
Authors: Xia Yong-Gang , Li Guo-Yu , Liang Jun , Yang Bing-You , Lü Shao-Wa , Kuang Hai-Xue
Published: May 2014

Recently, some promising advances have been achieved in understanding the chemistry, pharmacology, and action mechanisms of constituents from genus Caulophyllum. Despite this, there is to date no systematic review of those of genus Caulophyllum. This review covers naturally occurring alkaloids and saponins and those resulting from synthetic novel taspine derivatives. The paper further discussed several aspects of this genus, including pharmacological properties, mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and cell membrane chromatography for activity screening. The aim of this paper is to provide a point of reference for pharmaceutical researchers to develop new drugs from constituents of Caulophyllum plants.
Rapid Decline of Follicular Lymphoma-Associated Chylothorax after Low Dose Radiotherapy to Retroperitoneal Lymphoma Localization
Authors: Van De Voorde Lien , Vanneste Ben , Borger Jacques , Troost Esther G. C. , Werner Philo
Published: May 2014

Chylothorax is caused by disruption or obstruction of the thoracic duct or its tributaries that results in the leakage of chyle into the pleural space. A number of interventions have been used to treat chylothorax including the treatment of the underlying disease. Lymphoma is found in 70% of cases with nontraumatic malignant aetiology. Although patients usually have advanced lymphoma, supradiaphragmatic disease is not always present. We discuss the case of a 63-year-old woman presenting with progressive respiratory symptoms due to chylothorax. She was diagnosed with a stage IIE retroperitoneal grade 1 follicular lymphoma extending from the coeliac trunk towards the pelvic inlet. Despite thoracocentesis and medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), diet chylothorax reoccurred. After low dose radiotherapy (2×2 Gy) to the abdominal lymphoma there was a marked decrease in lymphadenopathy at the coeliac trunk and a complete regression of the pleural fluid. In this case, radiotherapy was shown to be an effective nontoxic treatment option for lymphoma-associated chylothorax with long-term remission of pleural effusion.
On the Multilinear Singular Integrals and Commutators in the Weighted Amalgam Spaces
Authors: Liu Feng , Wu Huoxiong , Zhang Daiqing
Published: May 2014

This paper is concerned with the norm estimates for the multilinear singular integral operators and their commutators formed by BMO functions on the weighted amalgam spacesLvw→q,Lpαℝn. Some criterions of boundedness for such operators inLvw→q,Lpαℝnare given. As applications, the norm inequalities for the multilinear Calderón-Zygmund operators and multilinear singular integrals with nonsmooth kernels as well as the corresponding commutators onLvw→q,Lpαℝnare obtained.
Heartbeat Classification Using Normalized RR Intervals and Morphological Features
Authors: Lin Chun-Cheng , Yang Chun-Min
Published: May 2014

This study developed an automatic heartbeat classification system for identifying normal beats, supraventricular ectopic beats, and ventricular ectopic beats based on normalized RR intervals and morphological features. The proposed heartbeat classification system consists of signal preprocessing, feature extraction, and linear discriminant classification. First, the signal preprocessing removed the high‐frequency noise and baseline drift of the original ECG signal. Then the feature extraction derived the normalized RR intervals and two types of morphological features using wavelet analysis and linear prediction modeling. Finally, the linear discriminant classifier combined the extracted features to classify heartbeats. A total of 99,827 heartbeats obtained from the MIT‐BIH Arrhythmia Database were divided into three datasets for the training and testing of the optimized heartbeat classification system. The study results demonstrate that the use of the normalized RR interval features greatly improves the positive predictive accuracy of identifying the normal heartbeats and the sensitivity for identifying the supraventricular ectopic heartbeats in comparison with the use of the nonnormalized RR interval features. In addition, the combination of the wavelet and linear prediction morphological features has higher global performance than only using the wavelet features or the linear prediction features.
Selective Synthesis of Manganese/Silicon Complexes in Supercritical Water
Authors: Wang Jiancheng , Peng Zhaoliang , Wang Bing , Han Lina , Chang Liping , Bao Weiren , Feng Gang
Published: May 2014

A series of manganese salts (Mn(NO3)2, MnCl2, MnSO4, and Mn(Ac)2) and silicon materials (silica sand, silica sol, and tetraethyl orthosilicate) were used to synthesize Mn/Si complexes in supercritical water using a tube reactor. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to characterize the structure and morphology of the solid products. It was found that MnO2, Mn2O3, and Mn2SiO4 could be obtained in supercritical water at 673 K in 5 minutes. The roles of both anions of manganese salts and silicon species in the formation of manganese silicon complexes were discussed. The inorganic manganese salt with the oxyacid radical could be easily decomposed to produce MnO2/SiO2 and Mn2O3/SiO2. It is interesting to found that Mn(Ac)2 can react with various types of silicon to produce Mn2SiO4. The hydroxyl groups of the SiO2 surface from different silicon sources enhance the reactivity of SiO2.
SDN: Evolution and Opportunities in the Development IoT Applications
Authors: Valdivieso Caraguay Ángel Leonardo , Benito Peral Alberto , Barona López Lorena Isabel , García Villalba Luis Javier
Published: May 2014

The exponential growth of devices connected to the network has resulted in the development of new IoT applications and on-line services. However, these advances are limited by the rigidity of the current network infrastructure, in which the administrator has to implement high-level network policies adapting and configuring protocols manually and usually through a command line interface (CLI). At this point, Software-Defined Networking (SDN) appears as a viable alternative network architecture that allows for programming the network and opening the possibility of creating new services and more efficient applications to cover the actual requirements. In this paper, we describe this new technology and analyze its opportunities in the development of IoT applications. Similarly, we present the first applications and projects based on this technology. Finally, we discuss the issues and challenges in its implementation.
A High-Order Iterate Method for ComputingAT,S(2)
Authors: Liu Xiaoji , Zuo Zemeng
Published: May 2014

We investigate a new higher order iterative method for computing the generalized inverseAT,S(2)for a given matrixA. We also discuss how the new method could be applied for finding approximate inverses of nonsingular square matrices. Analysis of convergence is included to show that the proposed scheme has at least fifteenth-order convergence. Some tests are also presented to show the superiority of the new method.
Anti-Inflammatory Functions of Protein C Require RAGE and ICAM-1 in a Stimulus-Dependent Manner
Authors: Braach Natascha , Buschmann Kirsten , Pflaum Johanna , Hudalla Hannes , Koch Lutz , Ryschich Eduard , Poeschl Johannes , Frommhold David
Published: May 2014

By bindingβ2-integrins both ICAM-1 and the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) mediate leukocyte recruitment in a stimulus-dependent manner. Using different inflammatory mouse models we investigated how RAGE and ICAM-1 are involved in anti-inflammatory functions of protein C (PC; Ceprotin, 100 U/kg). We found that, depending on the stimulus, RAGE and ICAM-1 are cooperatively involved in PC-induced inhibition of leukocyte recruitment in cremaster models of inflammation. During short-term proinflammatory stimulation (trauma, fMLP, and CXCL1), ICAM-1 is more important for mediation of anti-inflammatory effects of PC, whereas RAGE plays a major role after longer proinflammatory stimulation (TNFα). In contrast to WT andIcam-1−/−mice, PC had no effect on bronchoalveolar neutrophil emigration inRAGE−/−mice during LPS-induced acute lung injury, suggesting that RAGE critically mediates PC effects during acute lung inflammation. In parallel, PC treatment effectively blocked leukocyte recruitment and improved survival of WT mice andIcam-1-deficient mice in LPS-induced endotoxemia, but failed to do so inRAGE-deficient mice. Exploring underlying mechanisms, we found that PC is capable of downregulating intracellular RAGE and extracellular ICAM-1 in endothelial cells. Taken together, our data show that RAGE and ICAM-1 are required for the anti-inflammatory functions of PC.
Time-Domain Analysis of Coupled Carbon Nanotube Interconnects
Authors: Fathi Davood
Published: May 2014

This paper describes a new method for the analysis of coupling effects including the crosstalk effects between two driven coupled single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and the intertalk effects between two neighboring shells in a multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), based on transmission line circuit modeling. Using rigorous calculations, a new parametric transfer function has been obtained for the analysis of the impact of aggressor line on the victim line, which depends on the various coupling parameters such as the mutual inductance, the coupling capacitance, and the tunneling resistance. The influences of various parameters such as the contact resistance and the switching factor on the time behavior of coupling effects between the two coupled CNTs and an important effect named “crosstalk-induced delay” are studied and analyzed.
Principal Mappings between Posets
Authors: Nai Yuan Ting , Zhao Dongsheng
Published: May 2014

We introduce and study principal mappings between posets which generalize the notion of principal elements in a multiplicative lattice, in particular, the principal ideals of a commutative ring. We also consider some weaker forms of principal mappings such as meet principal, join principal, weak meet principal, and weak join principal mappings which also generalize the corresponding notions on elements in a multiplicative lattice, considered by Dilworth, Anderson and Johnson. The principal mappings between the lattices of powersets and chains are characterized. Finally, for any PIDR, it is proved that a mappingF:Idl(R)→Idl(R)is a contractive principal mapping if and only if there is a fixed idealI∈Idl(R)such thatF(J)=IJfor allJ∈Idl(R). This exploration also leads to some new problems on lattices and commutative rings.
A Hybrid Vector Quantization Combining a Tree Structure and a Voronoi Diagram
Authors: Chen Yeou-Jiunn , Chen Shih-Chung , Wu Jiunn-Liang
Published: May 2014

Multimedia data is a popular communication medium, but requires substantial storage space and network bandwidth. Vector quantization (VQ) is suitable for multimedia data applications because of its simple architecture, fast decoding ability, and high compression rate. Full‐search VQ can typically be used to determine optimal codewords, but requires considerable computational time and resources. In this study, a hybrid VQ combining a tree structure and a Voronoi diagram is proposed to improve VQ efficiency. To efficiently reduce the search space, a tree structure integrated with principal component analysis is proposed, to rapidly determine an initial codeword in low‐dimensional space. To increase accuracy, a Voronoi diagram is applied to precisely enlarge the search space by modeling relations between each codeword. This enables an optimal codeword to be efficiently identified by rippling an optimal neighbor from parts of neighboring Voronoi regions. The experimental results demonstrated that the proposed approach improved VQ performance, outperforming other approaches. The proposed approach also satisfies the requirements of handheld device application, namely, the use of limited memory and network bandwidth, when a suitable number of dimensions in principal component analysis is selected.
Existence Results for an Impulsive Neutral Fractional Integrodifferential Equation with Infinite Delay
Authors: Chadha Alka , Pandey Dwijendra N.
Published: May 2014

We consider an impulsive neutral fractional integrodifferential equation with infinite delay in an arbitrary Banach spaceX. The existence of mild solution is established by using solution operator and Hausdorff measure of noncompactness.
A Method for Calculating the Area ofZostera marinaLeaves from Digital Images with Noise Induced by Humidity Content
Authors: Leal-Ramirez Cecilia , Echavarria-Heras Hector
Published: May 2014

Despite the ecological importance of eelgrass, nowadays anthropogenic influences have produced deleterious effects in many meadows worldwide. Transplantation plots are commonly used as a feasible remediation scheme. The characterization of eelgrass biomass and its dynamics is an important input for the assessment of the overall status of both natural and transplanted populations. Particularly, in restoration plots it is desirable to obtain nondestructive assessments of these variables. Allometric models allow the expression of above ground biomass and productivity of eelgrass in terms of leaf area, which provides cost effective and nondestructive assessments. Leaf area in eelgrass can be conveniently obtained by the product of associated length and width. Although these variables can be directly measured on most sampled leaves, digital image methods could be adapted in order to simplify measurements. Nonetheless, since width to length ratios in eelgrass leaves could be even negligible, noise induced by leaf humidity content could produce misidentification of pixels along the peripheral contour of leaves images. In this paper, we present a procedure aimed to produce consistent estimations of eelgrass leaf area in the presence of the aforementioned noise effects. Our results show that digital image procedures can provide reliable, nondestructive estimations of eelgrass leaf area.