bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Procedure for Optimizing Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Mitroi Mihai Razvan , Fara Laurentiu , Ciurea Magdalena Lidia
Published: January 2014

We propose a numerical procedure consisting of a simplified physical model and a numerical method with the aim of optimizing the performance parameters of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). We calculate the real rate of absorbed photons (in the dye spectral range) Greal(x) by introducing a factor β < 1 in order to simplify the light absorption and reflection on TCO electrode. We consider the electrical transport to be purely diffusive and the recombination process only to occur between electrons from the TiO2 conduction band and anions from the electrolyte. The used numerical method permits solving the system of differential equations resulting from the physical model. We apply the proposed numerical procedure on a classical DSSC based on Ruthenium dye in order to validate it. For this, we simulate the J‐V characteristics and calculate the main parameters: short‐circuit current density Jsc, open circuit voltage Voc, fill factor FF, and power conversion efficiency η. We analyze the influence of the nature of semiconductor (TiO2) and dye and also the influence of different technological parameters on the performance parameters of DSSCs. The obtained results show that the proposed numerical procedure is suitable for developing a numerical simulation platform for improving the DSSCs performance by choosing the optimal parameters.
Incentive Contract in Supply Chain with Asymmetric Information
Authors: Su Yingsheng , Guo Hongmei , Wang Xianyu
Published: January 2014

The supply chain always appears inefficient because of the different targets of members and information asymmetry, especially when upstream enterprises not only hide information about their effort levels, but also hide information about their technology level. The paper uses principal-agent theory and the theory of regulation to design the contract to realize the maximization of principal's profit on the condition that the contract satisfies the participant and incentive conditions of agent. As a result, it is obvious that the contract achieves the goal of control. In addition, it also can be concluded that the amount of rent that the manufacturer can obtain is up to the value of his information and the condition of his resource.
Diversification in Monkeyflowers: An Investigation of the Effects of Elevation and Floral Color in the Genus Mimulus
Authors: Ogutcen Ezgi , Hamper Brooklyn , Vamosi Jana C.
Published: January 2014

The vast diversity of floral colours in many flowering plant families, paired with the observation of preferences among pollinators, suggests that floral colour may be involved in the process of speciation in flowering plants. While transitions in floral colour have been examined in numerous genera, we have very little information on the consequences of floral colour transitions to the evolutionary success of a clade. Overlaid upon these patterns is the possibility that certain floral colours are more prevalent in certain environments, with the causes of differential diversification being more directly determined by geographical distribution. Here we examine transition rates to anthocyanin + carotenoid rich (red/orange/fuschia) flowers and examine whether red/orange flowers are associated with differences in speciation and/or extinction rates in Mimulus. Because it has been suggested that reddish flowers are more prevalent at high elevation, we also examine the macroevolutionary evidence for this association and determine if there is evidence for differential diversification at high elevations. We find that, while red/orange clades have equivalent speciation rates, the trait state of reddish flowers reverts more rapidly to the nonreddish trait state. Moreover, there is evidence for high speciation rates at high elevation and no evidence for transition rates in floral colour to differ depending on elevation.
Pseudo-MS3Approach Using Electrospray Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS) to Characterize Certain (2E)-2-[3-(1H-Imidazol-1-yl)-1-phenylpropylidene]hydrazinecarboxamide Derivatives
Authors: Abdelhameed Ali S. , Kadi Adnan A. , Attia Mohamed I. , Angawi Rihab F. , Attwa Mohamed W. , Darwish Hany W.
Published: January 2014

An approach for the use of in-source fragmentation with electrospray ionization followed by product ion scan in a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer system is described. This approach is based on the elucidation of the various fragmentation pathways by further dissociation of each fragment ion in the ion spectrum. This can be achieved predominately, by combining fragmentor voltage induced dissociation (in-source fragmentation) with subsequent collision-induced dissociation; this process can be referred to as pseudo-MS3scan mode. This technique permitted unambiguous assignment and provided sufficient sensitivity and specificity. It is advantageous for structure elucidation of unknown compounds. We investigate the possibility of using in-source fragmentation with the diverse novel chemical entities encompassing different substituents. This process was intended to improve the qualitative capability of tandem mass spectrometry simulating the MS3of ion trap for studying fragmentation mechanisms. The approach is to implement the investigated technique as a well established tool for the characterization of new pharmacologically important chemical entities. The data presented in this paper provided useful information on the effect of different substituents on the ionization/fragmentation processes and can be used in the characterization of (2E)-2-[3-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-1-phenylpropylidene]-hydrazinecarboxamide derivatives3a–h.
Efficient Image Transmission over WVSNs Using Two-Measurement Matrix Based CS with Enhanced OMP
Authors: Rajendran Hemalatha , Sankararajan Radha , Justus Jalbin
Published: January 2014

WVSN is a collective network of motes containing visual sensors. The nodes in the network are capable of acquiring, compressing, and transmitting successive images to the sink. To increase the lifetime of such network, it is essential to reduce the amount of dataflow across the network without losing the integrity. This paper proposes a CS-based image transmission system to reduce the number of measurements required to represent the image. It utilizes a two-measurement matrix-based CS. TMM with CS leads to 2.8% to 6.7% and 0.67% to 7.9% reduction in the number of measurements compared to one MM-based CS while using DCT and binary DCT, respectively. Similarly, TMM with NUS CS leads to 5% to 40% (DCT) and 1.4% to 20% (binDCT) reduction in the number of measurements than one-measurement matrix-based NUS CS. An Enhanced Orthogonal Matching Pursuit algorithm is also proposed, which produces nearly 2% to 26% better recovery rate with the same number of measurements than the conventional OMP algorithm. Reduced measurements and better recovery rate achieved will enhance the lifetime of the WVSN, with considerable image quality. Rate distortion analysis of the proposed methodology is also done.
Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy: The Mallet Grading System for Shoulder Function—Revisited
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M. , El-Sayed A. A. F.
Published: January 2014

The Mallet grading system is a commonly used functional scoring system to assess shoulder abduction/external rotation deficits in children with obstetric brachial plexus palsy. One feature of the Mallet score is that each grade is translated into certain degrees of deficiencies in both shoulder abduction and external rotation. The aim of the current study is to investigate the percentage of children in which the Mallet score could not be applied because of a discrepancy between the deficiency of shoulder abduction and shoulder external rotation. The study group included 50 consecutive unoperated older children (over 5 years of age) with Erb’s palsy and deficits in shoulder movements. The Mallet score could be applied in 40 cases (80%). In the remaining 10 cases (20%), the Mallet score could not be applied either because shoulder abduction had a better grade than the grade of shoulder external rotation (n=7) or vice versa (n=3). It was concluded that documenting the deficits in shoulder abduction and external rotation are best done separately and this can be accomplished by using other grading systems.
Weighted Multilinear Hardy Operators on Herz Type Spaces
Authors: Gong Shuli , Fu Zunwei , Ma Bolin
Published: January 2014

This paper focuses on the bounds of weighted multilinear Hardy operators on the product Herz spaces and the product Morrey-Herz spaces, respectively. We present a sufficient condition on the weight function that guarantees weighted multilinear Hardy operators to be bounded on the product Herz spaces. And the condition is necessary under certain assumptions. Finally, we extend the obtained results to the product Morrey-Herz spaces.
Image Denoising Using Total Variation Model Guided by Steerable Filter
Authors: Zhang Wenxue , Cao Yongzhen , Zhang Rongxin , Wang Yuanquan
Published: January 2014

We propose an adaptive total variation (TV) model by introducing the steerable filter into the TV‐based diffusion process for image filtering. The local energy measured by the steerable filter can effectively characterize the object edges and ramp regions and guide the TV‐based diffusion process so that the new model behaves like the TV model at edges and leads to linear diffusion in flat and ramp regions. This way, the proposed model can provide a better image processing tool which enables noise removal, edge‐preserving, and staircase suppression.
Oxidative Stress in Alzheimer’s Disease: Why Did Antioxidant Therapy Fail?
Authors: Persson Torbjörn , Popescu Bogdan O. , Cedazo-Minguez Angel
Published: January 2014

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in the elderly, with increasing prevalence and no disease-modifying treatment available yet. A remarkable amount of data supports the hypothesis that oxidative stress is an early and important pathogenic operator in AD. However, all clinical studies conducted to date did not prove a clear beneficial effect of antioxidant treatment in AD patients. In the current work, we review the current knowledge about oxidative stress in AD pathogeny and we suggest future paths that are worth to be explored in animal models and clinical studies, in order to get a better approach of oxidative imbalance in this inexorable neurodegenerative disease.
Strategies Affording Prevascularized Cell-Based Constructs for Myocardial Tissue Engineering
Authors: Muscari Claudio , Giordano Emanuele , Bonafè Francesca , Govoni Marco , Guarnieri Carlo
Published: January 2014

The production of a functional cardiac tissue to be transplanted in the injured area of the infarcted myocardium represents a challenge for regenerative medicine. Most cell-based grafts are unviable because of inadequate perfusion; therefore, prevascularization might be a suitable approach for myocardial tissue engineering. To this aim, cells with a differentiation potential towards vascular and cardiac muscle phenotypes have been cocultured in 2D or 3D appropriate scaffolds. In addition to these basic approaches, more sophisticated strategies have been followed employing mixed-cell sheets, microvascular modules, and inosculation from vascular explants. Technologies exerting spatial control of vascular cells, such as topographical surface roughening and ordered patterning, represent other ways to drive scaffold vascularization. Finally, microfluidic devices and bioreactors exerting mechanical stress have also been employed for high-throughput scaling-up production in order to accelerate muscle differentiation and speeding the endothelialization process. Future research should address issues such as how to optimize cells, biomaterials, and biochemical components to improve the vascular integration of the construct within the cardiac wall, satisfying the metabolic and functional needs of the myocardial tissue.
Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in an Edentulous Lower Jaw Patient with a Mandibular Advancement Device
Authors: Keyf Filiz , Çiftci Bülent , Fırat Güven Selma
Published: January 2014

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder with periodic reduction or cessation of airflow during sleep. It is associated with loud snoring, disrupted sleep, and witnessed apneas. Treatment of OSA varies from simple measures such as oral appliances and nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to surgical procedures like uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and tracheostomy. Oral appliances are a viable nonsurgical treatment alternative in patients with OSA, of which mandibular advancement devices are most common. Edentulism which contributes to the worsening of OSA reduces the number of available therapeutic strategies and is considered a contraindication to oral appliance therapy. This clinical report describes the treatment of a 63-year-old edentulous OSA patient for whom a mandibular advancement device was designed.
The Multidisciplinary Management of Fused Maxillary Lateral Incisor with a Supernumerary Tooth in Cleft Lip Adolescence
Authors: Yagci Ahmet , Cantekin Kenan , Buyuk Suleyman Kutalmis , Pala Kansad
Published: January 2014

Fusion, an uncommon anomaly of the hard dental tissues, is potentially the cause of clinical problems related to esthetics, tooth spacing, and other periodontal complications. This paper describes a multidisciplinary approach involving surgical, endodontic, restorative, and orthodontic attention for the successful, functional, and esthetic rehabilitation of a maxillary left lateral incisor fused with a supernumerary tooth in unilateral cleft lip adolescence in contralateral side. After clinical and radiographic examinations, a fusion between the left maxillary lateral incisor and a supernumerary tooth was diagnosed in the patient, and a small connection was detected between the pulp systems of the two root canals. The case reported in this paper presents the successful resolution of a fused maxillary lateral incisor with a supernumerary tooth, using endodontic, surgical, restorative, and orthodontic management. The decision made in extracting or retaining the fused tooth depends on the arch discrepancy and esthetic needs. Future studies, with long-term followup, will be helpful in evaluating the long-term efficacy of the different treatment options.
Strain Distribution of Au and Ag Nanoparticles Embedded in Al2O3 Thin Film
Authors: Huang Honghua , Zhang Ying , Yuan Cailei , Gu Gang , Ye Shuangli
Published: January 2014

Au and Ag nanoparticles embedded in amorphous Al2O3 matrix are fabricated by the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) method and rapid thermal annealing (RTA) technique, which are confirmed by the experimental high‐resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) results, respectively. The strain distribution of Au and Ag nanoparticles embedded in the Al2O3 matrix is investigated by the finite‐element (FE) calculations. The simulation results clearly indicate that both the Au and Ag nanoparticles incur compressive strain by the Al2O3 matrix. However, the compressive strain existing on the Au nanoparticle is much weaker than that on the Ag nanoparticle. This phenomenon can be attributed to the reason that Young’s modulus of Au is larger than that of Ag. This different strain distribution of Au and Ag nanoparticles in the same host matrix may have a significant influence on the technological potential applications of the Au‐Ag alloy nanoparticles.
Degradation of Tannic Acid Using TiO2 Nanotubes as Electrocatalyst
Authors: Kruthika N. Lakshmi , Raju G. Bhaskar , Prabhakar S.
Published: January 2014

Structured TiO2 nanotubes were grown on 2 mm thick titanium sheet by anodization of titanium in ethylene glycol medium containing 0.025 M NaF. The morphology of TiO2 nanotubes (TNT) was characterized using field emission scanning electron microscope. The potential of TNT as anode and also as photocatalyst for the degradation of tannic acid was studied. The mineralization of tannic acid was measured in terms Total Organic Carbon (TOC). Only 50% of TOC could be removed by exposing the tannic acid solution to UV-radiation (photolysis), whereas it was improved to 70% by electrooxidation (EO) using TNT as anode. Maximum degradation of 83% was achieved when electrooxidation was conducted under the influence of UV-radiation (photoelectrocatalytic process (PEC)). Among the electrolytes tried, Na2SO4 was observed to be very effective for the degradation of tannic acid. The kinetics of tannic acid degradation by photoelectrocatalytic process was found to follow zero-order rate expression.
Effects of Additives on Weather‐Resistance Properties of Polyurethane Films Exposed to Ultraviolet Radiation and Ozone Atmosphere
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Wang Yanzhi , Liu Dongxu , Sun Zonghui , Wang Huicong
Published: January 2014

Three polyurethane films were prepared by adding the antioxidant‐1010 and the composite stabilizer to the polyurethane matrix, respectively. The accelerated weathering tests were performed by using self‐designed UV/ozone aging test device. The color difference, yellowness index, UV‐Vis spectrum, and infrared spectrum were recorded with colorimeter apparatus, UV‐Vis spectroscopy, and FT‐IR spectroscopy, respectively. The results show that, for the polyurethane film, the composite stabilizer can remarkably decrease UV transmission, the antioxidant‐1010 and the composite stabilizer can markedly decrease the photooxidation index and the carbonyl index, respectively, and the antioxidant‐1010 can significantly improve the antiyellowing properties after 60 h exposure. With incremental exposure time for the three films, UV‐Vis transmission decreases, the photooxidation index, the carbonyl index, color difference, and yellowness index increase gradually. Under current experimental conditions, the order of UV/O3 aging resistance from highness to lowness is as follows: the polyurethane film modified by the antioxidant‐1010, the polyurethane film modified by composite stabilizer, and the pure polyurethane film.
A Study of the Anechoic Performance of Rice Husk-Based, Geometrically Tapered, Hollow Absorbers
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Nadeem , Malek Mohd. Fareq , Lee Yeng Seng , Zahid Liyana , Mezan Muhammad Shafiq
Published: January 2014

Although solid, geometrically tapered microwave absorbers are preferred due to their better performance, they are bulky and must have a thickness on the order ofλor more. The goal of this study was to design lightweight absorbers that can reduce the electromagnetic reflections to less than −10 dB. We used a very simple approach; two waste materials, that is, rice husks and tire dust in powder form, were used to fabricate two independent samples. We measured and used their dielectric properties to determine and compare the propagation constants and quarter-wave thickness. The quarter-wave thickness for the tire dust was 3 mm less than that of the rice husk material, but we preferred the rice-husk material. This preference was based on the fact that our goal was to achieve minimum backward reflections, and the rice-husk material, with its low dielectric constant, high loss factor, large attenuation per unit length, and ease of fabrication, provided a better opportunity to achieve that goal. The performance of the absorbers was found to be better (lower) than −20 dB, and comparison of the results proved that the hollow design with 58% less weight was a good alternative to the use of solid absorbers.
Prediction of Building Limestone Physical and Mechanical Properties by Means of Ultrasonic P-Wave Velocity
Authors: Concu Giovanna , De Nicolo Barbara , Valdes Monica
Published: January 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate ultrasonic P-wave velocity as a feature for predicting some physical and mechanical properties that describe the behavior of local building limestone. To this end, both ultrasonic testing and compressive tests were carried out on several limestone specimens and statistical correlation between ultrasonic velocity and density, compressive strength, and modulus of elasticity was studied. The effectiveness of ultrasonic velocity was evaluated by regression, with the aim of observing the coefficient of determinationr2between ultrasonic velocity and the aforementioned parameters, and the mathematical expressions of the correlations were found and discussed. The strong relations that were established between ultrasonic velocity and limestone properties indicate that these parameters can be reasonably estimated by means of this nondestructive parameter. This may be of great value in a preliminary phase of the diagnosis and inspection of stone masonry conditions, especially when the possibility of sampling material cores is reduced.
Coupling Analysis of Low‐Speed Multiphase Flow and High‐Frequency Electromagnetic Field in a Complex Pipeline Structure
Authors: Huo Xiaokai , Sun Weitao , He Fengjiang , Yang Zhe , Peng Yuanping
Published: January 2014

Accurate estimation of water content in an oil‐water mixture is a key technology in oil exploration and production. Based on the principles of the microwave transmission line (MTL), the logging probe is an important water content measuring apparatus. However, the effects of mixed fluid flow on the measurement of electromagnetic field parameters are rarely considered. This study presents the coupling model for low‐speed multiphase flow and high‐frequency electromagnetic field in a complex pipeline structure. We derived the S‐parameter equations for the stratified oil/water flow model. The corresponding relationship between the S‐parameters and water holdup is established. Evident coupling effects of the fluid flow and the electromagnetic field are confirmed by comparing the calculated S‐parameters for both stratified and homogeneous flow patterns. In addition, a multiple‐solution problem is analyzed for the inversion of dielectric constant from the S‐parameters. The most sensitive phase angle range is determined to improve the detection of variation in the dielectric constant. Suggestions are proposed based on the influence of the oil/water layer on measurement sensitivity to optimize the geometric parameters of a device structure. The method proposed elucidates how accuracy and sensitivity can be improved in water holdup measurements under high water content conditions.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis of the Clavicle in a 13-Year-Old Boy
Authors: Parikh Shital N. , Desai Vishal R. , Gupta Anita , Anton Christopher G.
Published: January 2014

Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare neoplasm characterized by abnormal proliferation of histiocytic cells. In this case report, we describe a unique case of a 13-year-old boy who presented to the clinic with an insidious onset of mid-clavicular pain. The provisional radiologic diagnosis of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis of the clavicle was confirmed by an incisional biopsy of the left mid-clavicle lesion. The patient’s lesion was treated by curettage, bone grafting, and internal fixation, due to the presence of pathologic fracture. At the 2-year followup, the patient was asymptomatic, and the lesion showed complete resolution without recurrence. The case report highlights the characteristic features of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis in an unusual location, the knowledge of which would help avoid delayed or missed diagnosis in the future.
Clinical Study of Effects of Jian Ji Ning, a Chinese Herbal Medicine Compound Preparation, in Treating Patients with Myasthenia Gravis via the Regulation of Differential MicroRNAs Expression in Serum
Authors: Jiang Chao , Liu Ping , Zhang Jingsheng , Bao Wenjing , Qiu Shaobo , Liang Yan , Jiang Lin
Published: January 2014

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease, of which the pathogenesis has remained unclear. At present, MG does not have any effective treatment with minor side effects. Jian Ji Ning (JJN), a traditional Chinese medicine formula consisting of 11 medicinal plants, has been used in the treatment of MG for many years. The present study aims to determine if the Chinese herbal medicine JJN could lighten the clinical symptoms of patients with MG via the regulation of differential microRNAs (miRNAs) expression in serum. JJN should be orally administered twice a day for 6 months. In the efficacy evaluation adopting the Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis Score (QMG), we found that JJN could improve the clinical symptoms of patients with MG more effectively. Besides, we found that JJN could regulate differential miRNAs expression in serum of patients with MG. Accordingly, we speculate that the effects of JJN on improving clinical symptoms and blood test indicators of patients with MG may be due to its inhibition of apoptotic pathways of some immune cells and its connection with the regulation of serum miRNAs of some patients. In conclusion, we believe that JJN has a reliable curative effect on patients with MG‐induced neuropathologic changes.
Autologous Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells in Ischemic Cerebrovascular Accident Paves Way for Neurorestoration: A Case Report
Authors: Sharma Alok , Sane Hemangi , Nagrajan Anjana , Gokulchandran Nandini , Badhe Prerna , Paranjape Amruta , Biju Hema
Published: January 2014

In response to acute ischemic stroke, large numbers of bone marrow stem cells mobilize spontaneously in peripheral blood that home onto the site of ischemia activating the penumbra. But with chronicity, the numbers of mobilized cells decrease, reducing the degree and rate of recovery. Cellular therapy has been explored as a new avenue to restore the repair process in the chronic stage. A 67-year-old Indian male with a chronic right middle cerebral artery ischemic stroke had residual left hemiparesis despite standard management. Recovery was slow and partial resulting in dependence to carry out activities of daily living. Our aim was to enhance the speed of recovery process by providing an increased number of stem cells to the site of injury. We administered autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells intrathecally alongwith rehabilitation and regular follow up. The striking fact was that the hand functions, which are the most challenging deficits, showed significant recovery. Functional Independence Measure scores and quality of life improved. This could be attributed to the neural tissue restoration. We hypothesize that cell therapy may be safe, novel and appealing treatment for chronic ischemic stroke. Further controlled trials are indicated to advance the concept of Neurorestoration.
Efficient FPGA Hardware Reuse in a Multiplierless Decimation Chain
Authors: Jaquenod Guillermo A. , Valls Javier , Siman Javier
Published: January 2014

In digital communications, an usual reception chain requires many stages of digital signal processing for filtering and sample rate reduction. For satellite on board applications, this need is hardly constrained by the very limited hardware resources available in space qualified FPGAs. This short paper focuses on the implementation of a dual chain of 14 stages of cascaded half band filters plus 2 : 1 decimators for complex signals (in-phase and quadrature) with minimal hardware resources, using a small portion of an UT6325 Aeroflex FPGA, as a part of a receiver designed for a low data rate command and telemetry channel.
Bäcklund Transformation of Fractional Riccati Equation and Infinite Sequence Solutions of Nonlinear Fractional PDEs
Authors: Lu Bin
Published: January 2014

The Bäcklund transformation of fractional Riccati equation with nonlinear superposition principle of solutions is employed to establish the infinite sequence solutions of nonlinear fractional partial differential equations in the sense of modified Riemann-Liouville derivative. To illustrate the reliability of the method, some examples are provided.
Forecasting Optimal Solar Energy Supply in Jiangsu Province (China): A Systematic Approach Using Hybrid of Weather and Energy Forecast Models
Authors: Zhao Xiuli , Asante Antwi Henry , Yiranbon Ethel
Published: January 2014

The idea of aggregating information is clearly recognizable in the daily lives of all entities whether as individuals or as a group, since time immemorial corporate organizations, governments, and individuals as economic agents aggregate information to formulate decisions. Energy planning represents an investment-decision problem where information needs to be aggregated from credible sources to predict both demand and supply of energy. To do this there are varying methods ranging from the use of portfolio theory to managing risk and maximizing portfolio performance under a variety of unpredictable economic outcomes. The future demand for energy and need to use solar energy in order to avoid future energy crisis in Jiangsu province in China require energy planners in the province to abandon their reliance on traditional, “least-cost,” and stand-alone technology cost estimates and instead evaluate conventional and renewable energy supply on the basis of a hybrid of optimization models in order to ensure effective and reliable supply. Our task in this research is to propose measures towards addressing optimal solar energy forecasting by employing a systematic optimization approach based on a hybrid of weather and energy forecast models. After giving an overview of the sustainable energy issues in China, we have reviewed and classified the various models that existing studies have used to predict the influences of the weather influences and the output of solar energy production units. Further, we evaluate the performance of an exemplary ensemble model which combines the forecast output of two popular statistical prediction methods using a dynamic weighting factor.
Modern Management of the Exstrophy-Epispadias Complex
Authors: Inouye Brian M. , Tourchi Ali , Di Carlo Heather N. , Young Ezekiel E. , Gearhart John P.
Published: January 2014

The exstrophy-epispadias complex is a rare spectrum of malformations affecting the genitourinary system, anterior abdominal wall, and pelvis. Historically, surgical outcomes were poor in patients with classic bladder exstrophy and cloacal exstrophy, the two more severe presentations. However, modern techniques to repair epispadias, classic bladder exstrophy, and cloacal exstrophy have increased the success of achieving urinary continence, satisfactory cosmesis, and quality of life. Unfortunately, these procedures are not without their own complications. This review provides readers with an overview of the management of the exstrophy-epispadias complex and potential surgical complications.
A Planar Reconfigurable Radiation Pattern Dipole Antenna with Reflectors and Directors for Wireless Communication Applications
Authors: Ben Trad Imen , Floc’h Jean Marie , Rmili Hatem , Drissi M’hamed , Choubani Fethi
Published: January 2014

A planar printed dipole antenna with reflectors and directors, able to steer its radiation pattern in different directions, is proposed for telecommunication applications. Starting from a dual-beam printed dipole antenna achieved by combining two elementary dipoles back to back, and by loading four PIN diodes, three modes of reconfigurable radiation patterns are achieved at the frequency 2.56 GHz thanks to switches states. A prototype of the structure was realized and characterized; an efficiency of 75% is obtained. Simulation and measured results of the results are presented and discussed.
Reelin in the Years: Controlling Neuronal Migration and Maturation in the Mammalian Brain
Authors: D'Arcangelo Gabriella
Published: January 2014

The extracellular protein Reelin was initially identified as an essential factor in the control of neuronal migration and layer formation in the developing mammalian brain. In the years following its discovery, however, it became clear that Reelin is a multifunctional protein that controls not only the positioning of neurons in the developing brain, but also their growth, maturation, and synaptic activity in the adult brain. In this review, we will highlight the major discoveries of the biological activities of Reelin and the underlying molecular mechanisms that affect the development and function of the mammalian brain, from embryonic ages to adulthood.
Diagnosis and Assessment of Disease Activity in Takayasu Arteritis: A Childhood Case Illustrating the Challenge
Authors: Watson L. , Brogan P. , Peart I. , Landes C. , Barnes N. , Cleary G.
Published: January 2014

Takayasu Arteritis (TA) is a rare, debilitating large vessel vasculitis occurring in patients of all ages, including infants, but the disease most commonly presents in the third decade. Diagnosis is often delayed and consequently TA is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Accurate methods of monitoring disease activity or damage are lacking and currently rely on a combination of clinical features, blood inflammatory markers, and imaging modalities. In this report we describe a case of a 14-year-old boy with childhood-onset TA who, despite extensive negative investigations, did indeed have on-going active large vessel vasculitis with fatal outcome. Postmortem analysis demonstrated more extensive and active disease than originally identified. This report illustrates and discusses the limitations of current modalities for the detection and monitoring of disease activity and damage in large vessel vasculitis. Clinicians must be aware of these limitations and challenges if we are to strive for better outcomes in TA.
Identification of p53 and Its Isoforms in Human Breast Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Milićević Zorka , Bajić Vladan , Živković Lada , Kasapović Jelena , Andjelković Uroš , Spremo-Potparević Biljana
Published: January 2014

In breast carcinoma, disruption of the p53 pathway is one of the most common genetic alterations. The observation that the p53 can express multiple protein isoforms adds a novel level of complexity to the outcome of p53 mutations. p53 expression was analysed by Western immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry using monoclonal antibodies DO-7, Pab240, and polyclonal antiserum CM-1. The more frequently p53-positive nuclear staining has been found in the invasive breast tumors. One of the most intriguing findings is that mutant p53 appears as discrete dot-shaped regions within the nucleus of breast cancer cells. In many malignant cells, the nucleolar sequestration of p53 is evident. These observations support the view that the nucleolus is involved directly in the mediation of p53 function or indirectly by the control of the localization of p53 interplayers. p53 expressed in the nuclear fraction of breast cancer cells revealed a wide spectrum of isoforms. p53 isoforms ΔNp53 (47 kDa) and Δ133p53β(35 kDa), known as dominant-negative repressors of p53 function, were detected as the most predominant variants in nuclei of invasive breast carcinoma cells. The isoforms expressed also varied between individual tumors, indicating potential roles of these p53 variants in human breast cancer.
Desirable Elements for a Particle System Interface
Authors: Schroeder Daniel , Hamilton Howard J.
Published: January 2014

Particle systems have many applications, with the most popular being to produce special effects in video games and films. To permit particle systems to be created quickly and easily, Particle System Interfaces (PSIs) have been developed. A PSI is a piece of software designed to perform common tasks related to particle systems for clients, while providing them with a set of parameters whose values can be adjusted to create different particle systems. Most PSIs are inflexible, and when clients require functionality that is not supported by the PSI they are using, they are forced to either find another PSI that meets their requirements or, more commonly, create their own particle system or PSI from scratch. This paper presents three original contributions. First, it identifies 18 features that a PSI should provide in order to be capable of creating diverse effects. If these features are implemented in a PSI, clients will be more likely to be able to accomplish all desired effects related to particle systems with one PSI. Secondly, it introduces a novel use of events to determine, at run time, which particle system code to execute in each frame. Thirdly, it describes a software architecture called the Dynamic Particle System Framework (DPSF). Simulation results show that DPSF possesses all 18 desirable features.
Analysis of Dynamic Behavior of Multiple-Stage Planetary Gear Train Used in Wind Driven Generator
Authors: Wang Jungang , Wang Yong , Huo Zhipu
Published: January 2014

A dynamic model of multiple-stage planetary gear train composed of a two-stage planetary gear train and a one-stage parallel axis gear is proposed to be used in wind driven generator to analyze the influence of revolution speed and mesh error on dynamic load sharing characteristic based on the lumped parameter theory. Dynamic equation of the model is solved using numerical method to analyze the uniform load distribution of the system. It is shown that the load sharing property of the system is significantly affected by mesh error and rotational speed; load sharing coefficient and change rate of internal and external meshing of the system are of obvious difference from each other. The study provides useful theoretical guideline for the design of the multiple-stage planetary gear train of wind driven generator.
Optimization of Insoluble and Soluble Fibres Extraction fromAgave americanaL. Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Bouaziz Amine , Masmoudi Manel , Kamoun Amel , Besbes Souhail
Published: January 2014

Experimental design methodology was used to determine significant factors affecting the extraction yield of soluble and insoluble fibres fromAgave americanaL. and in second time to find optimum conditions leading to the highest yield. Results clearly indicated that the temperature, the powder to water (P/W) ratio, and the agitation speed were the most important factors influencing fibres extraction yield which increased with temperature, P/W ratio, and agitation speed. Ionic strength affected significantly soluble fibre extraction yield and was the most important factor among nonsignificant ones influencing insoluble fibres extraction yield. Then, a Box-Behnken design was carried out to maximise fibres extraction. Selected optimal conditions were temperature: 90°C; P/W ratio: 0.1625; agitation speed: 400 rpm; and ionic strength: 1.5 g/L. These conditions yielded 93.02% and 80.46% of insoluble and soluble fibres, respectively. Concentrates showed high fibres purity and good functional properties.
Designing of a Personality Based Emotional Decision Model for Generating Various Emotional Behavior of Social Robots
Authors: Ahn Ho Seok
Published: January 2014

All humans feel emotions, but individuals express their emotions differently because each has a different personality. We design an emotional decision model that focuses on the personality of individuals. The personality-based emotional decision model is designed with four linear dynamics, viz. reactive dynamic system, internal dynamic system, emotional dynamic system, and behavior dynamic system. Each dynamic system calculates the output values that reflect the personality, by being used as system matrices, input matrices, and output matrices. These responses are reflected in the final emotional behavior through a behavior dynamic system as with humans. The final emotional behavior includes multiple emotional values, and a social robot shows various emotional expressions. We perform some experiments using the cyber robot system, to verify the efficiency of the personality-based emotional decision model that generates various emotions according to the personality.
Stability for Caputo Fractional Differential Systems
Authors: Choi Sung Kyu , Kang Bowon , Koo Namjip
Published: January 2014

We introduce the notion ofh-stability for fractional differential systems. Then we investigate the boundedness andh-stability of solutions of Caputo fractional differential systems by using fractional comparison principle and fractional Lyapunov direct method. Furthermore, we give examples to illustrate our results.
Management of Major Limb Injuries
Authors: Langer Vijay
Published: January 2014

Management of major limb injuries is a daunting challenge, especially as many of these patients have severe associated injuries. In trying to save life, often the limb is sacrificed. The existing guidelines on managing such trauma are often confusing. There is scope to lay down such protocols along with the need for urgent transfer of such patients to a multispecialty center equipped to salvage life and limb for maximizing outcome. This review article comprehensively deals with the issue of managing such major injuries.
Current Methods in the Molecular Typing ofMycobacterium tuberculosisand Other Mycobacteria
Authors: Jagielski Tomasz , van Ingen Jakko , Rastogi Nalin , Dziadek Jarosław , Mazur Paweł K. , Bielecki Jacek
Published: January 2014

In the epidemiology of tuberculosis (TB) and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) diseases, as in all infectious diseases, the key issue is to define the source of infection and to disclose its routes of transmission and dissemination in the environment. For this to be accomplished, the ability of discerning and tracking individualMycobacteriumstrains is of critical importance. Molecular typing methods have greatly improved our understanding of the biology of mycobacteria and provide powerful tools to combat the diseases caused by these pathogens. The utility of various typing methods depends on theMycobacteriumspecies under investigation as well as on the research question. For tuberculosis, different methods have different roles in phylogenetic analyses and person-to-person transmission studies. In NTM diseases, most investigations involve the search for environmental sources or phylogenetic relationships. Here, too, the type of setting determines which methodology is most suitable. Within this review, we summarize currently available molecular methods for strain typing ofM. tuberculosisand some NTM species, most commonly associated with human disease. For the various methods, technical practicalities as well as discriminatory power and accomplishments are reviewed.
Multifocal Metachronous Giant Cell Tumor: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ghostine B. , Sebaaly A. , Ghanem I.
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Giant cell tumors (GCTs) of bone are known for their local aggressiveness and high recurrence rate. There are rare cases of multicentric GCT and most are synchronous. We herein review metachronous multicentric GCT reported in the literature.Material and Methods. A MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Google Scholar search was done to collect all cases of multicentric metachronous GCT specifying the clinical, radiological, and histological characteristics of each location and its treatment.Results. A total of 37 multifocal giant cell tumors were found in the literature. 68% of cases of multicentric giant cell tumors occur in less than 4 years following treatment of the first lesion. Thirty-seven cases of multifocal metachronous GCT were identified in the literature until 2012. Patients with multicentric GCT tend to be younger averaging 23. There is a slight female predominance in metachronous GCT. The most common site of the primary GCT is around the knee followed by wrist and hand and feet. Recurrence rate of multicentric GCT is 28.5%.Conclusion. Multicentric giant cell tumor is rare. The correct diagnosis relies on correlation of clinical and radiographic findings with confirmation of the diagnosis by histopathologic examination.
Different Random Distributions Research on Logistic‐Based Sample Assumption
Authors: Pan Jing , Ding Qun , Ning Lei , Zheng Yanbin
Published: January 2014

Logistic‐based sample assumption is proposed in this paper, with a research on different random distributions through this system. It provides an assumption system of logistic‐based sample, including its sample space structure. Moreover, the influence of different random distributions for inputs has been studied through this logistic‐based sample assumption system. In this paper, three different random distributions (normal distribution, uniform distribution, and beta distribution) are used for test. The experimental simulations illustrate the relationship between inputs and outputs under different random distributions. Thereafter, numerical analysis infers that the distribution of outputs depends on that of inputs to some extent, and this assumption system is not independent increment process, but it is quasistationary.
Synthesis of Cobalt Oxides Thin Films Fractal Structures by Laser Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Haniam P. , Kunsombat C. , Chiangga S. , Songsasen A.
Published: January 2014

Thin films of cobalt oxides (CoO and Co3O4) fractal structures have been synthesized by using laser chemical vapor deposition at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. Various factors which affect the density and crystallization of cobalt oxides fractal shapes have been examined. We show that the fractal structures can be described by diffusion-limited aggregation model and discuss a new possibility to control the fractal structures.
Changes in Iron Metabolism and Oxidative Status in STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats Treated with Bis(maltolato) Oxovanadium (IV) as an Antidiabetic Agent
Authors: Sánchez-González Cristina , López-Chaves Carlos , Trenzado Cristina E. , Aranda Pilar , López-Jurado María , Gómez-Aracena Jorge , Montes-Bayón María , Sanz-Medel Alfredo , Llopis Juan
Published: January 2014

The role of vanadium as a micronutrient and hypoglycaemic agent has yet to be fully clarified. The present study was undertaken to investigate changes in the metabolism of iron and in antioxidant defences of diabetic STZ rats following treatment with vanadium. Four groups were examined: control; diabetic; diabetic treated with 1 mgV/day; and Diabetic treated with 3 mgV/day. The vanadium was supplied in drinking water as bis(maltolato) oxovanadium (IV) (BMOV). The experiment had a duration of five weeks. Iron was measured in food, faeces, urine, serum, muscle, kidney, liver, spleen, and femur. Superoxide dismutase, catalase, NAD(P)H: quinone-oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1) activity, and protein carbonyl group levels in the liver were determined. In the diabetic rats, higher levels of Fe absorbed, Fe content in kidney, muscle, and femur, and NQO1 activity were recorded, together with decreased catalase activity, in comparison with the control rats. In the rats treated with 3 mgV/day, there was a significant decrease in fasting glycaemia, Fe content in the liver, spleen, and heart, catalase activity, and levels of protein carbonyl groups in comparison with the diabetic group. In conclusion BMOV was a dose-dependent hypoglycaemic agent. Treatment with 3 mgV/day provoked increased Fe deposits in the tissues, which promoted a protein oxidative damage in the liver.
Sol-Gel Synthesized Semiconductor Oxides in Photocatalytic Degradation of Phenol
Authors: Cherepivska Maria K. , Prihod’ko Roman V.
Published: January 2014

Effectiveness of photocatalytic degradation of phenol in aqueous solution using semiconductor oxides (SO) prepared by a sol-gel method was examined. The physical and chemical properties of synthesized catalysts were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), diffuse reflectance UV-Vis spectroscopy (DRS), and N2-adsorption measurements. The optimal conditions of the photocatalytic degradation of phenol using prepared titanium dioxide sample were defined.