bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenetic diversity of a microbialite reef in a cold alkaline freshwater lake
Authors: Chan Olivia W. , Bugler-Lacap Donnabella C. , Biddle Jennifer F. , Lim Darlene S. , McKay Christopher P. , Pointing Stephen B.
Published: April 2014

A culture-independent multidomain survey of biodiversity in microbialite structures within the cold alkaline Pavilion Lake (British Columbia, Canada) revealed a largely homogenous community at depths from 10 to 30 m. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to demonstrate that bacteria comprised approximately 80%–95% of recoverable phylotypes. Archaeal phylotypes accounted for <5% of the community in microbialites exposed to the water column, while structures in sediment contact supported 4- to 5-fold higher archaeal abundance. Eukaryal phylotypes were rare and indicated common aquatic diatoms that were concluded not to be part of the microbialite community. Phylogenetic analysis of rRNA genes from clone libraries (N = 491) revealed that alphaproteobacterial phylotypes were most abundant. Cyanobacterial phylotypes were highly diverse but resolved into 4 dominant genera: Acaryochloris, Leptolyngbya, Microcoleus, and Pseudanabaena. Interestingly, microbialite cyanobacteria generally affiliated phylogenetically with aquatic and coral cyanobacterial groups rather than those from stromatolites. Other commonly encountered bacterial phylotypes were from members of the Acidobacteria, with relatively low abundance of the Betaproteobacteria, Chloroflexi, Nitrospirae, and Planctomycetes. Archaeal diversity (N = 53) was largely accounted for by Euryarchaeota, with most phylotypes affiliated with freshwater methanogenic taxa.
MOND theory
Authors: Milgrom Mordehai
Published: April 2014

A general account of modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND) theory is given. I start with the basic tenets of MOND, which posit departure from standard dynamics in the limit of low acceleration — below an acceleration constant a0 — where dynamics become scale invariant. I list some of the salient predictions of these tenets. The special role of a0 and its significance are then discussed. In particular, I stress its coincidence with cosmologically relevant accelerations, which may point to MOND having deep interplay with cosmology. The deep-MOND limit and the consequences of its scale invariance are considered in some detail. There are many ways to achieve scale invariance of the equations of motion — guaranteed if the total action has a well-defined scaling dimension. The mere realization that this is enough to ensure MOND phenomenology opens a wide scope for constructing MOND theories. General aspects of MOND theories are then described, after which I list briefly presently known theories, both nonrelativistic and relativistic. With few exceptions, the construction of known, full-fledged theories follows the same rough pattern: they modify the gravitational action; hinge on a0; introduce, already at the level of the action, an interpolating function between the low and high accelerations; and they obey MOND requirements in the two opposite limits. These theories have much heuristic value as proofs of various concepts (e.g., that covariant MOND theories can be written with correct gravitational lensing). But, probably, none points to the final MOND theory. At best, they are effective theories of limited applicability. I argue that we have so far explored only a small corner of the space of possible MOND theories. I then outline several other promising approaches to constructing MOND theories that strive to obtain MOND as an effective theory from deeper concepts, for example, by modifying inertia and (or) gravity as a result of interactions with some omnipresent agent. These have made encouraging progress in various degrees, but have not yet resulted in full-fledged theories that can be applied to all systems and situations. Some of the presently known theories do enjoy a natural appearance of a cosmological-constant-like contribution that, furthermore, exhibits the observed connection with a0. However, none were shown to address fully the mass discrepancies in cosmology and structure formation that are otherwise explained by cosmological dark matter. This may well be due to our present ignorance of the true connections between MOND and cosmology. We have no clues as to whether and how MOND aspects enter nongravitational phenomena, but I discuss briefly some possibilities.
Nonclassical properties and decoherence of fields in photon-added squeezing-enhanced thermal states
Authors: Wang Zhen , Meng Xiang-guo , Li Heng-mei , Yuan Hong-chun
Published: April 2014

We put forward the photon-added squeezing-enhanced thermal states (PASETS) theoretically by adding photon to the squeezed enhancing thermal states (SETS) repeatedly. Based on the normally ordered density operator of PASETS, we investigate the nonclassical behavior of the PASETS by evaluating, both analytically and numerically, Mandel's Q-parameter, photon-number distribution (PND), and Wigner function (WF). It is found that smaller squeezing parameter r and thermal photon number nc can lead to more chance of the appearance of sub-Poissonian statistics. And it is shown that the PND of PASETS exhibit more remarkable oscillations than that of SETS in stronger squeezing case. The WF exhibit partial negativity in phase space and the squeezing parameter r can result in both squeezing and rotating effect. By investigating the fidelity between PASETS and SETS shows that the fidelity tender to steady values in the high value of squeezing parameter or thermal photon number. In addition, the decoherence effect on the PASETS is examined by the time-evolution of the analytical WF in thermal channel. The results show that the PASETS shall lose nonclassicality and non-Gaussianity and reduce to classical states with Gaussian distribution after sufficient time interaction with the thermal noise. And larger photon-added number or thermal photon number shall render shorter decoherence time.
Migration of defect clusters and xenon-vacancy clusters in uranium dioxide
Authors: Chen Dong , Gao Fei , Deng Hui-Qiu , Liu Bo , Hu Wang-Yu , Sun Xin
Published: April 2014

The possible transition states, minimum energy paths (MEPs) and migration mechanisms of defect clusters and xenon-vacancy defect clusters in uranium dioxide ( UO 2) have been investigated using the dimer and the nudged elastic-band (NEB) methods. The nearby O atom can easily hop into the oxygen vacancy position by overcoming a small energy barrier, which is much lower than that for the migration of a uranium vacancy. A simulation for a vacancy cluster consisting of two oxygen vacancies reveals that the energy barrier of the divacancy migration tends to decrease with increasing the separation distance of divacancy. For an oxygen interstitial, the migration barrier for the hopping mechanism is almost three times larger than that for the exchange mechanism. Xe moving between two interstitial sites is unlikely a dominant migration mechanism considering the higher energy barrier. A net migration process of a Xe-vacancy pair containing an oxygen vacancy and a xenon interstitial is identified by the NEB method. We expect the oxygen vacancy-assisted migration mechanism to possibly lead to a long distance migration of the Xe interstitials in UO 2. The migration of defect clusters involving Xe substitution indicates that Xe atom migrating away from the uranium vacancy site is difficult.
Relative stability and phase transitions under pressure ofSrTiO3:ab initioFP-LAPW within GGA-PBEsol+TB-mBJ calculations
Authors: Benallou Yassine , Soudini Belabbas , Amara Kadda
Published: April 2014

In this paper, we report a density functional study of the structural, electronic and pressure-induced solid–solid phase transitions of SrTiO3. These first-principles calculations have been performed using the full potential linearized augmented plane wave method (FP-LAPW) within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) developed by Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhor for solids (PBEsol). The calculated structural parameters like the lattice parameters, the bulk modulus B and their pressure derivative B ′ are used to analyze the relative stability and phase transitions under pressure of SrTiO3. Calculations were done for the cubic (Pm-3m), tetragonal (I4/mcm, P4/mbm, P4mm) and orthorhombic (Cmcm, Pnma) structures where we found that the tetragonal I4/mcm phase is the most stable structure compared to the other structures at T = 0 K and P = 0 GPa. For the electronic properties calculations, the exchange and correlation effects were treated by the Tran–Blaha modified Becke–Johnson (TB-mBJ) potential to prevent the shortcoming of the underestimation of the energy gaps in both LDA and GGA approximations. The obtained results are compared to available experimental data and to other theoretical calculations.
Master equation for photon mediated phonon–atom coupled system
Authors: Shen J. , Zhang X. Y. , Teng J. H. , Hou S. C. , Yi X. X.
Published: April 2014

Achieving phonon–atom couplings in cavity optomechanical system could lead to fundamentally new regimes of phonon–matter interaction and the development of sensitive mass and force sensors. Here we derive a master equation to describe the phonon–atom system and numerically simulate the equation. The phonon–atom coupling is mediated by a driven cavity mode. A crossover from the bad cavity limit, which validates the master equation, to the limit of small cavity loss rate is studied.
FABRICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF HYDROGEN SENSORS BASED ON TRANSFERRED GRAPHENE SYNTHESIZED BY ANNEALING OF Ni/3C-SiC THIN FILMS
Authors: KIM KANG-SAN , CHUNG GWIY-SANG
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the formation of graphene and its application to hydrogen sensors. In this work, the graphene was synthesized by annealing process of 3 C - SiC thin films with Ni transition layer. The Ni film was coated on a 3 C - SiC layer grown thermal oxided Si substrates and used extracts of the substrate's carbon atoms under rapid thermal annealing (RTA). Various parameters such as ramping speed, annealing time and cooling rate were evaluated for the optimized combination allowed for the reproducible synthesis of graphene using 3 C - SiC thin films. Transfer process performed by Ni layer etching in HF solution and transferred graphene onto SiO 2 shows the IG/ID ratio of 2.73. Resistivity hydrogen sensors were fabricated and evaluated with Pd and Pt nanoparticles in the room temperature with hydrogen range of 10–50 ppm. The response factor of devices with the Pd catalyst was 1.3 when exposed to 50 ppm hydrogen and it is able to detect as low as 10 ppm hydrogen at room temperature.
VaR/CVaR ESTIMATION UNDER STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY MODELS
Authors: HAN CHUAN-HSIANG , LIU WEI-HAN , CHEN TZU-YING
Published: April 2014

This paper proposes an improved procedure for stochastic volatility model estimation with an application to Value-at-Risk (VaR) and Conditional Value-at-Risk (CVaR) estimation. This improved procedure is composed of the following instrumental components: Fourier transform method for volatility estimation, and importance sampling for extreme event probability estimation. The empirical analysis is based on several foreign exchange series and the S&P 500 index data. In comparison with empirical results by RiskMetrics, historical simulation, and the GARCH(1,1) model, our improved procedure outperforms on average.
On the existence and cusp singularity of solutions to semilinear generalized Tricomi equations with discontinuous initial data
Authors: Ruan Zhuoping , Witt Ingo , Yin Huicheng
Published: April 2014

In this paper, we are concerned with the local existence and singularity structures of low regularity solution to the semilinear generalized Tricomi equation [Formula: see text] with typical discontinuous initial data (u(0, x), ∂tu(0, x)) = (0, φ(x)), where m ∈ ℕ, x = (x1,…,xn), n ≥ 2, and f(t, x, u) is C∞ smooth on its arguments. When the initial data φ(x) is homogeneous of degree zero or piecewise smooth along the hyperplane {t = x1 = 0}, it is shown that the local solution u(t, x) ∈ L∞([0, T] × ℝn) exists and is C∞ away from the forward cuspidal conic surface [Formula: see text] or the cuspidal wedge-shaped surfaces [Formula: see text] respectively. On the other hand, for n = 2 and piecewise smooth initial data φ(x) along the two straight lines {t = x1 = 0} and {t = x2 = 0}, we establish the local existence of a solution [Formula: see text] and further show that [Formula: see text] in general due to the degenerate character of the equation under study, where [Formula: see text]. This is an essential difference to the well-known result for solution [Formula: see text] to the two-dimensional semilinear wave equation [Formula: see text] with (v(0, x), ∂tv(0, x)) = (0, φ(x)), where Σ0 = {t = |x|}, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Multiplicity and nondegeneracy of positive solutions to quasilinear equations on compact Riemannian manifolds
Authors: Cingolani Silvia , Vannella Giuseppina , Visetti Daniela
Published: April 2014

We consider a compact, connected, orientable, boundaryless Riemannian manifold (M, g) of class C∞where g denotes the metric tensor. Let n = dim M ≥ 3. Using Morse techniques, we prove the existence of [Formula: see text] nonconstant solutions u ∈ H1,p(M) to the quasilinear problem [Formula: see text] for ε > 0 small enough, where 2 ≤ p < n, p < q < p*, p* = np/(n - p) and [Formula: see text] is the p-laplacian associated to g of u (note that Δ2,g= Δg) and [Formula: see text] denotes the Poincaré polynomial of M. We also establish results of genericity of nondegenerate solutions for the quasilinear elliptic problem (Pε).
Blowup for the nonlinear Schrödinger equation with an inhomogeneous damping term in the L2-critical case
Authors: Correia Simão
Published: April 2014

We consider the nonlinear Schrödinger equation with L2-critical exponent and an inhomogeneous damping term. By using the tools developed by Merle and Raphael, we prove the existence of blowup phenomena in the energy space H1(ℝ).
Entanglement and algebraic independence in fermion systems
Authors: Benatti Fabio , Floreanini Roberto
Published: April 2014

In the case of systems composed of identical particles, a typical instance in quantum statistical mechanics, the standard approach to separability and entanglement ought to be reformulated and rephrased in terms of correlations between operators from subalgebras localized in spatially disjoint regions. While this algebraic approach is straightforward for bosons, in the case of fermions it is subtler since one has to distinguish between micro-causality, that is the anti-commutativity of the basic creation and annihilation operators, and algebraic independence that is the commutativity of local observables. We argue that a consistent algebraic formulation of separability and entanglement should be compatible with micro-causality rather than with algebraic independence.
Improved thermoelectric performance of Bi2Te3-xSex bulk materials produced by the preparation of high-pressure
Authors: Guo Xin , Jia Xiaopeng , Jiang Yiping , Sun Hairui , Zhang Yuewen , Sun Bing , Liu Binwu , Ma Hongan
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this research is to study the effect of Se doping content on the improvement in thermoelectric properties of Bi 2 Te 3-x Se x bulk materials produced by high-pressure role. The Bi 2 Te 3-x Se x bulk materials can be successfully synthesized within 30 min due to high-pressure role, which significantly shortened the synthesis time. The typical textures of the reaction products exhibit abundant cracked crystal planes and special layer structures with increasing Se content, which can coordinate electrical and thermal transport in the Bi 2 Te 3-x Se x samples to achieve an optimal thermoelectric performance. As a result, a Bi 2 Te 2.73 Se 0.27 bulk material obtained a maximum ZT value of 1.03 at 344 K. These results suggest that the low Se doping content with high-pressure can improve the figure of merit of Bi 2 Te 3-x Se x materials.
Brittle structures focused on subtle crustal heterogeneities: implications for flow in fractured rocks
Authors: Soden A. M. , Shipton Z. K. , Lunn R. J. , Pytharouli S. I. , Kirkpatrick J. D. , Do Nascimento A. F. , Bezerra F. H. R.
Published: April 2014

Host rock mechanical heterogeneities influence the spatial distribution of deformation structures and hence predictions of fault architecture and fluid flow. A critical factor, commonly overlooked, is how rock mechanical properties can vary over time, and how this will alter deformation processes and resultant structures. We present field data from an area in the Borborema Province, NE Brazil, that demonstrate how temporal changes in deformation conditions, and consequently processes, exert a primary control on the spatial distribution and geometric attributes of evolving deformation structures. Furthermore, each temporal deformation phase imparted different hydraulic architecture. The earliest flowing structures are localized upon subtle ductile heterogeneities. Following fault formation, both fault core and damage zone were flow conduits. In later stages of faulting pseudotachylyte welding created a low-permeability fault core and annealed high-permeability fractures within the fault damage zone. Modern flow occurs along a zone of later open shear fractures, defined by the mechanical strength contrast between the host rock and annealed fault. This second hydraulically conductive zone extends hundreds of metres from the edge of the annealed fault damage zone, creating a flow zone far wider than would be predicted using traditional fault scaling relationships. Our results demonstrate the importance of understanding successive deformation events for predicting the temporal and spatial evolution of hydraulically active fractures.
Delite
Authors: Sujeeth Arvind K. , Brown Kevin J. , Lee Hyoukjoong , Rompf Tiark , Chafi Hassan , Odersky Martin , Olukotun Kunle
Published: April 2014

Developing high-performance software is a difficult task that requires the use of low-level, architecture-specific programming models (e.g., OpenMP for CMPs, CUDA for GPUs, MPI for clusters). It is typically not possible to write a single application that can run efficiently in different environments, leading to multiple versions and increased complexity. Domain-Specific Languages (DSLs) are a promising avenue to enable programmers to use high-level abstractions and still achieve good performance on a variety of hardware. This is possible because DSLs have higher-level semantics and restrictions than general-purpose languages, so DSL compilers can perform higher-level optimization and translation. However, the cost of developing performance-oriented DSLs is a substantial roadblock to their development and adoption. In this article, we present an overview of the Delite compiler framework and the DSLs that have been developed with it. Delite simplifies the process of DSL development by providing common components, like parallel patterns, optimizations, and code generators, that can be reused in DSL implementations. Delite DSLs are embedded in Scala, a general-purpose programming language, but use metaprogramming to construct an Intermediate Representation (IR) of user programs and compile to multiple languages (including C++, CUDA, and OpenCL). DSL programs are automatically parallelized and different parts of the application can run simultaneously on CPUs and GPUs. We present Delite DSLs for machine learning, data querying, graph analysis, and scientific computing and show that they all achieve performance competitive to or exceeding C++ code.
Gene Expression Regulation in Photomorphogenesis from the Perspective of the Central Dogma
Authors: Wu Shu-Hsing
Published: April 2014

Depending on the environment a young seedling encounters, the developmental program following seed germination could be skotomorphogenesis in the dark or photomorphogenesis in the light. Light signals are interpreted by a repertoire of photoreceptors followed by sophisticated gene expression networks, eventually resulting in developmental changes. The expression and functions of photoreceptors and key signaling molecules are highly coordinated and regulated at multiple levels of the central dogma in molecular biology. Light activates gene expression through the actions of positive transcriptional regulators and the relaxation of chromatin by histone acetylation. Small regulatory RNAs help attenuate the expression of light-responsive genes. Alternative splicing, protein phosphorylation/dephosphorylation, the formation of diverse transcriptional complexes, and selective protein degradation all contribute to proteome diversity and change the functions of individual proteins.
Prevention of export of anoxia/reoxygenation injury from ischemic to nonischemic cardiomyocytes via inhibition of endocytosis
Authors: Khaidakov Magomed , Mercanti Federico , Wang Xianwei , Ding Zufeng , Dai Yao , Romeo Francesco , Sawamura Tatsuya , Mehta Jawahar L.
Published: April 2014

Myocardial infarct size is determined by the death of nonischemic border zone cardiomyocytes caused by export of injury signals from the infarct zone. The countermeasures to limit infarct size, therefore, should be aimed at nonselective blockade of most, if not all, injury signals from entering nonischemic cells. To test whether inhibition of endocytosis might limit infarct size, HL-1 cardiomyocytes were subjected to anoxia (6 h) and reoxygenation (1 h). Anoxic and reoxygenated cells showed a multifold increase in mitochondrial ROS production accompanied with upregulation of scavenger receptors lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 and CD36 and stimulation of stress signals, including NADPH oxidase subunit p22 phox, SOD2, and beclin-1. Incubation of healthy cardiomyocytes in media from anoxic and reoxygenated cells (conditioned media) resulted in qualitatively similar responses, including increase in the generation of mitochondrial ROS, p22 phox, SOD2, and beclin-1. Anoxia and reoxygenation caused collapse of clathrin-mediated endocytosis and stimulation of macropinocytosis, whereas in cultures exposed to conditioned media, the activity of endocytosis was uniformly higher. Conditioned media also significantly aggravated cytotoxic effects of TNF-α and angiotensin II, and suppression of endocytosis reversed these trends, resulting in an overall increase of metabolic activity. Moreover, inhibition of endocytosis prevented binding of oxidized cellular fragments with greater efficiency than targeted neutralization of the scavenger receptor lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1. Many of the observations in HL-1 cardiomyocytes were confirmed in primary cardiomyocyte cultures. Our data suggest that endocytosis is upregulated in border zone cardiomyocytes, and inhibition of endocytosis may be an effective approach to prevent export of injury signals from the infarct zone.
On a Controlled Random Deployment WSN-Based Monitoring System Allowing Fault Detection and Replacement
Authors: Boudriga Noureddine
Published: April 2014

This paper presents a sensor random deployment scheme to monitor 2-dimensional areas for constraining applications while providing a mathematical control of the coverage quality it allows. In addition, useful techniques to detect and repair sensor failures are also added to provide system robustness based on this scheme. In particular, mathematical formulas are developed to express the probability of complete coverage when the environment characteristics are varying, taking into account the deployment parameters. Moreover, a methodology is presented to adapt this scheme to the need of various WSN-based monitoring applications. A simulation is also performed to show the efficiency of the developed strategy, highlight some of its features, and assess its impact on the lifetime of the monitoring system it serves.
OTRA Based Voltage Mode Third Order Quadrature Oscillator
Authors: Pandey Rajeshwari , Pandey Neeta , Komanapalli Gurumurthy , Anurag Rashika
Published: April 2014

Two topologies of operational transresistance (OTRA) based third order quadrature oscillators (QO) are proposed in this paper. The proposed oscillators are designed using a combination of lossy and lossless integrators. The proposed topologies can be made fully integrated by implementing the resistors using matched transistors operating in linear region, which also facilitates electronic tuning of oscillation frequency. The nonideality analysis of the circuit is also given and for high frequency applications self-compensation can be used. Workability of the proposed QOs is verified through PSPICE simulations using 0.5 μm AGILENT CMOS process parameters. The total harmonic distortion (THD) for both the QO designs is found to be less than 1%.
A Case of Comorbid Myxoma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Not Just a Coincidence?
Authors: Laird-Fick Heather , Tiwari Ashish , Narayanan Santhosshi , Qin Ying , Vodnala Deepthi , Bhutani Manisha
Published: April 2014

Background. It is unclear why cardiac myxomas develop. We describe a case of comorbid myxoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) to offer insights into the tumor’s pathophysiology.Case. A 56-year-old female with recurrent venous thromboembolism developed embolic stroke. Transesophageal echocardiogram showed a 1.7 × 1 cm sessile left atrial mass at the interatrial septum. Histopathology revealed myxoma with a B cell lymphocytic infiltrate suggestive of a low grade lymphoproliferative disorder. Bone marrow biopsy and flow cytometry of blood and the cardiac infiltrate supported the diagnosis of atypical CLL. She was followed clinically in the absence of symptoms, organ infiltration, or cytopenia. After eighteen months, she developed cervical and axillary lymphadenopathy. Biopsy confirmed B cell CLL/small lymphocytic lymphoma. She elected to undergo chemotherapy with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab, with clinical remission.Conclusions. The coexistence of two neoplastic processes may be coincidental, but the cumulative likelihood is estimated at 0.002 per billion people per year. A shared pathogenic mechanism is more likely. Possibilities include chronic inflammation, vascular endothelial growth factor A, shared genetic mutations, changes in posttranslational regulation, or alterations in other cellular signaling pathways. Additional studies could expand our current understanding of the molecular biology of both myxomas and CLL.
New Exact Solutions for a Higher Order Wave Equation of KdV Type Using MultipleG′/G-Expansion Methods
Authors: He Yinghui
Published: April 2014

TheG′/G-expansion method is a powerful mathematical tool for solving nonlinear wave equations in mathematical physics and engineering problems. In our work, exact traveling wave solutions of a generalized KdV type equation of neglecting the highest order infinitesimal term, which is an important water wave model, are discussed by theG′/G-expansion method and its variants. As a result, many new exact solutions involving parameters, expressed by Jacobi elliptic functions, hyperbolic functions, trigonometric function, and the rational functions, are obtained. These methods are more effective and simple than other methods and a number of solutions can be obtained at the same time. The related results are enriched.
Evaluation of Inhibitory Effect of Recreational Drugs on Dopaminergic Terminal Neuron by PET and Whole-Body Autoradiography
Authors: Yeh Skye Hsin-Hsien , Lin Ming-Hsien , Kong Fan-Lin , Chang Chi-Wei , Hwang Li-Chung , Lin Chien-Feng , Hwang Jeng-Jong , Liu Ren-Shyan
Published: April 2014

There is little investigation for the functional roles of peripheral dopamine. [18F]FDOPA has been used in cancer imaging (i.e., neuroendocrine and tumors pancreatic tumors) and neuroimaging (i.e., Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease). Here, we accessed side effects of recreational drugs such as ketamine, cocaine, and methamphetamine on dopamine neurons in peripheral organs by using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and quantitative whole-body autoradiography (QWBAR) with [18F]FDOPA. The images were applied for the measurement of specific binding ratios (SBRs) of striatum with the cerebellum as the reference region. Clear striatal [18F]FDOPA-derived radioactivity was observed. Moderate level of radiotracer accumulation was presented in the mucosal layers of the stomach and small intestine. The medulla layers of kidney had higher radioactivity than that of the cortex. Blocking images markedly eliminated the specific binding of [18F]FDOPA in the striatum and in peripheral organs such as stomachs, intestines, and kidney. Ketamine showed the highest inhibitory effect on striatal [18F]FDOPA-derived radioactivity followed by cocaine and methamphetamine. The current results demonstrated a useful crossing-validating tool that enhances the capability of [18F]FDOPA for further investigations of the alteration of dopaminergic neurons in the brain disorder or cancer diseases in peripheral tissues.
A Review on Antibacterial, Antiviral, and Antifungal Activity of Curcumin
Authors: Zorofchian Moghadamtousi Soheil , Abdul Kadir Habsah , Hassandarvish Pouya , Tajik Hassan , Abubakar Sazaly , Zandi Keivan
Published: April 2014

Curcuma longaL. (Zingiberaceae family) and its polyphenolic compound curcumin have been subjected to a variety of antimicrobial investigations due to extensive traditional uses and low side effects. Antimicrobial activities for curcumin and rhizome extract ofC. longaagainst different bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites have been reported. The promising results for antimicrobial activity of curcumin made it a good candidate to enhance the inhibitory effect of existing antimicrobial agents through synergism. Indeed, different investigations have been done to increase the antimicrobial activity of curcumin, including synthesis of different chemical derivatives to increase its water solubility as well ass cell up take of curcumin. This review aims to summarize previous antimicrobial studies of curcumin towards its application in the future studies as a natural antimicrobial agent.
Evolving Ablative Therapies for Hepatic Malignancy
Authors: Singla Smit , Hochwald Steven N. , Kuvshinoff Boris
Published: April 2014

The liver is a common site for both primary and secondary malignancy. Hepatic resection and transplantation are the two treatment modalities that have been shown to achieve complete cure, but only 10 to 20% of patients are candidates for these treatments. For the remaining patients, tumor ablation has emerged as the most promising alternative modality. In addition to providing local control and improving survival outcomes, tumor ablation also helps to down stage patients for potential curative treatments, both alone as well as in combination with other treatments. While tumor ablation can be achieved in multiple ways, the introduction of newer ablative techniques has shifted the focus from palliation to potentially curative treatment. Because the long-term safety and survival benefits are not substantive at present, it is important that we strive to evaluate the results from these studies using appropriate comparative outcome methodologies.
An Association between BK Virus Replication in Bone Marrow and Cytopenia in Kidney-Transplant Recipients
Authors: Pambrun Emilie , Mengelle Catherine , Fillola Geneviève , Laharrague Patrick , Esposito Laure , Cardeau-Desangles Isabelle , Del Bello Arnaud , Izopet Jacques , Rostaing Lionel , Kamar Nassim
Published: April 2014

The human polyomavirus BK (BKV) is associated with severe complications, such as ureteric stenosis and polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PVAN), which often occur in kidney-transplant patients. However, it is unknown if BKV can replicate within bone marrow. The aim of this study was to search for BKV replication within the bone marrow of kidney-transplant patients presenting with a hematological disorder. Seventy-two kidney-transplant patients underwent bone-marrow aspiration for cytopenia. At least one virus was detected in the bone marrow of 25/72 patients (35%), that is, parvovirus B19 alone (n= 8), parvovirus plus Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) (n= 3), cytomegalovirus (n= 4), EBV (n= 2), BKV alone (n= 7), and BKV plus EBV (n= 1). Three of the eight patients who had BKV replication within the bone marrow had no detectable BKV replication in the blood. Neutropenia was observed in all patients with BKV replication in the bone marrow, and blockade of granulocyte maturation was observed. Hematological disorders disappeared in all patients after doses of immunosuppressants were reduced. In conclusion, an association between BKV replication in bone marrow and hematological disorders, especially neutropenia, was observed. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Current Population Status and Activity Pattern of Lesser Flamingos (Phoeniconaias minor) and Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) in Abijata-Shalla Lakes National Park (ASLNP), Ethiopia
Authors: Kumssa Tewodros , Bekele Afework
Published: April 2014

A study of the population status, habitat preference, and activity pattern of nonbreeding flamingos was carried out in Lakes Abijata, Shalla, and Chitu, part of the Great Rift Valley, Ethiopia, from 2011 to 2013. The current population status and habitat preference of flamingos in the area are still poorly known. Likewise, data on diurnal and seasonal activity pattern of the species are scarce and this leads to the misunderstanding of how Flamingos use local wetlands throughout the different seasons. Data regarding population size and activity pattern were gathered during the wet and dry seasons. Point-count method was used to estimate the population size. Behaviors were recorded using scan sampling techniques. A total of 53671 individuals representing two species of flamingo were counted during both wet and dry seasons from the three lakes. There were more flamingos during the dry season than the wet season in Lake Abijata contrary to Lakes Shalla and Chitu during the wet season. Lesser flamingos (Phoeniconaias minor) were the most abundant species comprising 95.39%, while Greater Flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus) accounted for 4.61% of the total population. Lake Abijata is the major stronghold of Lesser Flamingos in the area. There was significant variation in the mean number of both species during the wet and dry season in the different study sites of the lake, respectively. The species were known to use varied habitats within the lakes. The Lesser Flamingo mainly preferred the shoreline and mudflat areas of the lakes. However, Greater Flamingo on several occasions showed preference to offshore area of the lakes. Seasonal average flock sizes were not similar between the species. There was a strong relationship between time allocated to each activity and time of day. Feeding activity varied among daylight hours and was higher in the evening (76.5%) and late morning (74.56%) and least during midday (54%). Some variations in activity breakdown were observed between time blocks and season. Conservation efforts in the park should include the wild flora and fauna not only of the land but also of the aquatic systems. The information in this study will be very useful for the future management of the species in the area.
Vastus Medialis Obliquus Muscle Morphology in Primary and Recurrent Lateral Patellar Instability
Authors: Balcarek Peter , Oberthür Swantje , Frosch Stephan , Schüttrumpf Jan Philipp , Stürmer Klaus Michael
Published: April 2014

The morphology of the vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) muscle in the anatomical setting of an unstable patella has not been described. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the morphological parameters of the VMO muscle that delineate its importance in the maintenance of patellofemoral joint stability. Eighty-two consecutive subjects were prospectively enrolled in this study. The groups were composed of thirty patients with an acute primary patellar dislocation, thirty patients with recurrent patellar dislocation, and twenty-two controls. Groups were adjusted according to sex, age, body mass index, and physical activity. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure the VMO cross-sectional area, muscle-fiber angulation, and the craniocaudal extent of the muscle in relation to the patella. No significant difference was found with respect to all measured VMO parameters between primary dislocation, recurrent dislocation, and control subjects with a trend noted for only the VMO cross-sectional area and the VMO muscle-fiber angulation. This finding is notable in that atrophy of the VMO has often been suggested to play an important role in the pathophysiology of an unstable patellofemoral joint.
Chain Drive Simulation Using Spatial Multibody Dynamics
Authors: Omar Mohamed A.
Published: April 2014

This paper presents an efficient approach for modeling chain derives using multibody dynamics formulation based on the spatial algebra. The recursive nonlinear dynamic equations of motion are formulated using spatial Cartesian coordinates and joint variables to form an augmented set of differential-algebraic equations. The spatial algebra is used to express the kinematic and dynamic equations leading to consistent and compact set of equations. The connectivity graph is used to derive the system connectivity matrix based on the system topological relations. The connectivity matrix is used to eliminate the Cartesian quantities and to project the forces and inertia into the joint subspace. This approach will result in a minimum set of equation and can avoid iteratively solving the system of differential and algebraic equations to satisfy the constraint equations. In order to accurately capture the full dynamics of the chain links, each link in the chain is modeled as rigid body with full 6 degrees of freedom. To avoid singularities in closed loop configurations, the chain drive is considered a kinematically decoupled subsystem and the interaction between the links and other system components is modeled using force elements. The out-of-plane misalignment between the sprockets can be easily modeled using a compliant force element to model the joints between each two adjacent links. The nonlinear three dimensional contact forces between the chain links and the sprockets are modeled using elastic spring-damper element and accounts for the sliding friction. The proposed approach can be used to model complex drive chain, bicycle chain as well as conveyance systems. Results show that realistic behavior of the chain as well as out-of-plane vibration can be easily captured using the presented approach. The proposed approach for chain drive subsystem could be easily appended to any other multibody simulation system.
Global Asymptotic Stability in a Class of Reaction-Diffusion Equations with Time Delay
Authors: Yuan Yueding , Guo Zhiming
Published: April 2014

We study a very general class of delayed reaction-diffusion equations in which the reaction term can be nonmonotone and spatially nonlocal. By using a fluctuation method, combined with the careful analysis of the corresponding characteristic equations, we obtain some sufficient conditions for the global asymptotic stability of the trivial solution and the positive steady state to the equations subject to the Neumann boundary condition.
Determinants of Symptomatic Vulvovaginal Candidiasis among Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Infected Women in Rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Apalata Teke , Carr William H. , Sturm Willem A. , Longo-Mbenza Benjamin , Moodley Prashini
Published: April 2014

Introduction. We sought to determine the association between HIV-induced immunosuppression, virologic correlates, and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).Methods. This is a retrospective cohort study, where HIV infected and uninfected women were studied with VVC being the primary outcome. Ninety-seven HIV-infected and 101 HIV-uninfected women were enrolled between June and December 2011. Cases of VVC were confirmed. HIV RNA load was determined by RT-PCR and CD4 counts were obtained from medical records.Results. Fifty-two of 97 (53.6%) HIV-infected and 38/101 (37.6%) HIV-uninfected women were diagnosed with VVC (P=0.032). The relative risk for VVC amongst HIV-infected patients was 1.53 (95% CI: 1.04–2P=0.024). Cases of VVC increased at CD4+ T cell count below 200 cells/mm3(P<0.0001) and plasma HIV RNA load above 10 000 copies/mL (P<0.0001). VVC was associated with increased genital shedding of HIV (P=0.002), and there was a linear correlation between plasma HIV load and genital HIV shedding (r=0.540;R2=0.292;P<0.0001). Women on HAART were 4-fold less likely (P=0.029) to develop VVC.Conclusion. CD4 counts below 200 cells/mm3and plasma HIV loads ≥10 000 copies/mL were significantly associated with VVC.
Accurate Simulation of Contaminant Transport Using High-Order Compact Finite Difference Schemes
Authors: Gurarslan Gurhan
Published: April 2014

Numerical simulation of advective-dispersive contaminant transport is carried out by using high-order compact finite difference schemes combined with second-order MacCormack and fourth-order Runge-Kutta schemes. Both of the two schemes have accuracy of sixth-order in space. A sixth-order MacCormack scheme is proposed for the first time within this study. For the aim of demonstrating efficiency and high-order accuracy of the current methods, some numerical experiments have been done. The schemes are implemented to solve two test problems with known exact solutions. It has been exhibited that the methods are capable of succeeding high accuracy and efficiency with minimal computational effort, by comparisons of the computed results with exact solutions.
CCAAT/Enhancer-Binding ProteinαIs a Crucial Regulator of Human Fat Mass and Obesity Associated Gene Transcription and Expression
Authors: Ren Wei , Guo Jianjin , Jiang Feng , Lu Jun , Ding Ying , Li Aimei , Liang Xiubin , Jia Weiping
Published: April 2014

Several susceptibility loci have been reported associated with obesity and T2DM in GWAS. Fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO) is the first gene associated with body mass index (BMI) and risk for diabetes in diverse patient populations. FTO is highly expressed in the brain and pancreas, and is involved in regulating dietary intake and energy expenditure. While much is known about the epigenetic mutations contributing to obesity and T2DM, less is certain with the expression regulation of FTO gene. In this study, a highly conserved canonical C/EBPαbinding site was located around position −45~−54 bp relative to the human FTO gene transcriptional start site. Site-directed mutagenesis of the putative C/EBPαbinding sites decreased FTO promoter activity. Overexpression and RNAi studies also indicated that C/EBPαwas required for the expression of FTO. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiment was carried out and the result shows direct binding of C/EBPαto the putative binding regions in the FTO promoter. Collectively, our data suggest that C/EBPαmay act as a positive regulator binding to FTO promoter and consequently, activates the gene transcription.
Subnormal Peripheral Blood Leukocyte Counts Are Related to the Lowest Prevalence and Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome: Tianjin Chronic Low-Grade Systemic Inflammation and Health Cohort Study
Authors: Sun Shaomei , Wu Hongmei , Zhang Qing , Wang Chongjin , Guo Yinting , Du Huanmin , Liu Li , Jia Qiyu , Wang Xing , Song Kun , Niu Kaijun
Published: April 2014

Few studies have assessed the relationship between a subnormal inflammatory status and metabolic syndrome (MS). We therefore designed a cross-sectional and 5-year cohort study to evaluate how a subnormal peripheral blood leukocyte count is related to MS. Participants were recruited from Tianjin Medical University General Hospital-Health Management Centre. Both a baseline cross-sectional (n=46,179) and a prospective assessment (n=13,061) were performed. Participants without a history of MS were followed up for 5 years. Leukocyte counts and MS components were assessed at baseline and yearly during the follow-up. Adjusted logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess relationships between the categories of leukocyte counts and MS. The subnormal leukocyte counts group (1,100–3,900 cells/mm3) had the lowest prevalence and incidence of MS. The odds ratio and hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of the highest leukocyte counts were 1.98 (1.57–2.49) and 1.50 (1.22–1.84) (bothPfor trend <0.0001), respectively, when compared to the subnormal leukocyte counts group after adjusting for potential confounders. This study has shown that subnormal leukocyte counts are independently related to the lowest prevalence and incidence of MS. The findings suggest that it is necessary to restudy and discuss the clinical or preventive value of subnormal leukocyte counts.
Adsorption Equilibrium and Kinetics ofGardenia BlueonTiO2Photoelectrode for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Tae-Young , Park Kyung-Hee , Lee Jae-Wook , Han Shin , Cho Sung-Young
Published: April 2014

Nanostructured porous TiO2paste was deposited on the FTO conductive glass using squeeze printing technique in order to obtain a TiO2thin film with a thickness of 10 μm and an area of 4 cm2.Gardenia blue (GB)extracted fromGardeniajasminodeElliswas employed as the natural dye for a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC). Adsorption studies indicated that the maximum adsorption capacity of GB on the surface of TiO2thin film was approximately 417 mgGB/g TiO2photoelectrode. The commercial and natural dyes, N-719 andGB, respectively, were employed to measure the adsorption kinetic data, which were analyzed by pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order models. The energy conversion efficiency of the TiO2electrode with successive adsorptions ofGBdye was about 0.2%.
Evolutionary Multiobjective Query Workload Optimization of Cloud Data Warehouses
Authors: Dokeroglu Tansel , Sert Seyyit Alper , Cinar Muhammet Serkan
Published: April 2014

With the advent of Cloud databases, query optimizers need to find paretooptimal solutions in terms of response time and monetary cost. Our novel approach minimizes both objectives by deploying alternative virtual resources and query plans making use of the virtual resource elasticity of the Cloud. We propose an exact multiobjective branch-and-bound and a robust multiobjective genetic algorithm for the optimization of distributed data warehouse query workloads on the Cloud. In order to investigate the effectiveness of our approach, we incorporate the devised algorithms into a prototype system. Finally, through several experiments that we have conducted with different workloads and virtual resource configurations, we conclude remarkable findings of alternative deployments as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the multiobjective algorithms we propose.
Psychometric Properties of Questionnaires on Functional Health Status in Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Speyer Renée , Cordier Reinie , Kertscher Berit , Heijnen Bas J
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Questionnaires on Functional Health Status (FHS) are part of the assessment of oropharyngeal dysphagia.Objective. To conduct a systematic review of the literature on the psychometric properties of English-language FHS questionnaires in adults with oropharyngeal dysphagia.Methods. A systematic search was performed using the electronic databases Pubmed and Embase. The psychometric properties of the questionnaires were determined based on the COSMIN taxonomy of measurement properties and definitions for health-related patient-reported outcomes and the COSMIN checklist using preset psychometric criteria.Results. Three questionnaires were included: the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10), the Swallowing Outcome after Laryngectomy (SOAL), and the Self-report Symptom Inventory. The Sydney Swallow Questionnaire (SSQ) proved to be identical to the Modified Self-report Symptom Inventory. All FHS questionnaires obtained poor overall methodological quality scores for most measurement properties.Conclusions. The retrieved FHS questionnaires need psychometric reevaluation; if the overall methodological quality shows satisfactory improvement on most measurement properties, the use of the questionnaires in daily clinic and research can be justified. However, in case of insufficient validity and/or reliability scores, new FHS questionnaires need to be developed using and reporting on preestablished psychometric criteria as recommended in literature.