bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magneto-trions in a GaMnAs/Ga0.6Al0.4As Quantum Dot
Authors: Lalitha D. , Peter A. John , Lee Chang Woo
Published: August 2015

Magneto bound exciton and the charged exciton in a GaMn 0.02 As / Ga 0.6 Al 0.4 As quantum dot are reported with the spatial confinement effect. The numerical calculations are carried out with the inclusion of exchange interaction between the carrier and the magnetic impurities. The binding energies of exciton and the trions and the optical transition energy are obtained as a function of dot radius. Numerical computations are followed using exact diagonalization method. The spin polaronic energy of the exciton and the charged excitons are obtained using a mean field theory in the presence of magnetic field strength. The magnetization of Mn ion impurities as a function of dot radius is investigated. The effective g-factor of conduction (valence) band electron (hole) is obtained in the GaMnAs quantum dot. The magnetic field induced size dependence of effective Landé g-factor is computed. The result shows that (i) the geometrical dependence on sp-d exchange interaction in the GaMn 0.02 As / Ga 0.6 Al 0.4 As quantum dot has great influence with the geometrical confinement, (ii) the monotonic behavior of effective g-factor with the reduction of dot radius is observed, (iii) the Landé factor is more sensitive if the geometrical confinement effect is included and (iv) the value of effective g-factor increases when the spatial confinement is enhanced for all the dot radii. Our results show that the effective Landé g-factor can be manipulated negative to positive values in the GaMn 0.02 As / Ga 0.4 Al 0.6 As quantum dot.
Emotion–Location Mapping and Analysis Using Twitter
Authors: Chakraverty Shampa , Sharma Srishti , Bhalla Ikshu
Published: August 2015

The ever-increasing amount of text generated by Twitter users contains a wealth of information about the users' state of mind. Over the years, researchers have tapped upon this resource and proposed a number of lexicons and techniques for analysing the polarity of sentiments expressed by tweets. However, we need to delve deeper to extract the emotions conveyed by them — a research direction that had not received adequate attention so far. Through this work we develop a novel Emotion Analysis lexicon that was compiled by integrating information from the domain of psychology, the lexical ontology WordNet, and a set of emoticons and slangs commonly used in web jargon. We use this lexicon to find the predominant emotions carried by tweets originating from three different cities and analysed how they evolve with time. We propose a mathematical characterisation of the evolution of emotion by introducing the concepts of Emotion Intensity and Emotion Trend and visualise them in the context of causative events. On analysis, we observed Joy to be the predominant emotion in all the three cities. However, we could discern significant differences in the responses, patterns of emotion swings and correlations between different emotion categories that reflected the uniqueness of each city.
UNDERSTANDING VIRTUAL KNOWLEDGE BROKERS AND THEIR DIFFERENCES WITH TRADITIONAL ONES
Authors: COLOMBO GABRIELE , DELL’ERA CLAUDIO , FRATTINI FEDERICO , LANDONI PAOLO
Published: August 2015

Virtual knowledge brokers help their clients solve challenging innovation problems by leveraging the diverse knowledge basis of vast communities of solvers. Despite the increasing diffusion of virtual knowledge brokers, no efforts have been done so far to investigate the anatomy of the brokering process they follow to deliver a service to their clients. This paper analyses how virtual knowledge brokers go through the four macro-phases of the brokering process (i.e., access, learning, linking, and implementation) and points out the main differences with traditional brokers. The research is based on a multiple case study involving two Italian virtual knowledge brokers. The analysis suggests that virtual knowledge brokers are characterised by a stronger ability to access different knowledge domains in comparison with traditional knowledge brokers. However, virtual knowledge brokers are less effective in the learning and linking phases of the process, due to the distance that separates solvers and clients and the lack of communication and interaction between solvers. Starting from these insights, the ability of virtual and traditional knowledge brokers to solve different types of innovation problems is analysed. The paper contains also a discussion of the managerial implications of this study, especially for those firms that has to select the best knowledge brokers with which to collaborate.
Vibration Analysis of Rectangular Magnetostrictive Plate Considering Thickness Variation in Two Directions
Authors: Ghorbanpour Arani A. , Khani Arani H. , Khoddami Maraghi Z.
Published: August 2015

In this paper, vibration analysis of tapered magnetostrictive plate (MsP) is studied for the first time. Magnetostrictive material (MsM) is a component of smart material due to magneto–mechanical coupling in stress–strain relations or its reciprocal nature. A feedback control system is utilized in order to investigate the magnetic field intensity using velocity feedback gain parameter. The thickness of rectangular MsP varies linearly in both x- and y-directions. First order shear deformation theory (FSDT) with considering shear correction factor is used to derive the governing equations of tapered MsP including five equations and five unknowns that solved by differential quadrature method (DQM). Results indicate the effect of various parameters such as aspect ratio, thickness ratio, x- and y-taper ratios and the controller effect of velocity feedback gain on the frequency of MsP. The results are also compared by those available in the literature. These findings can be used to vibration cancellation systems and utilized for designing the magnetostrictive actuator, motor, transducer and sensors.
The proportion of plane cubic curves over ℚ that everywhere locally have a point
Authors: Bhargava Manjul , Cremona John , Fisher Tom
Published: August 2015

We show that the proportion of plane cubic curves over [Formula: see text] that have a [Formula: see text]-rational point is a rational function in [Formula: see text], where the rational function is independent of [Formula: see text], and we determine this rational function explicitly. As a consequence, we obtain the density of plane cubic curves over [Formula: see text] that have points everywhere locally; numerically, this density is shown to be [Formula: see text].
Weak precovering of acts over semigroups
Authors: Naghipoor Mohammad Ali , Ershad Majid
Published: August 2015

Let S be a monoid and [Formula: see text] a class of [Formula: see text]-acts which is closed under coproducts. The object of this paper is to find conditions under which all [Formula: see text]-acts have [Formula: see text]-precovering, especially when [Formula: see text] is the class of injective (C-injective) acts. We have shown that the existence of injective precovering over Noetherian monoids implies the existence of injective covering. This work is an attempt to further facilitate the study of the conjecture that all [Formula: see text]-acts have flat cover.
Preservation of co-occurring As, Sb and Se species in water samples with EDTA and acidification
Authors: Wu Debo , Pichler Thomas
Published: August 2015

The simultaneous preservation of the following redox couples was studied: As(III, V), Sb(III, V) and Se(IV, VI). Over a time period of 11 weeks the stability of these three redox couples was assessed in water samples with different dissolved oxygen content, i.e., groundwater, lake water and river water. High concentrations of Fe (25.0 mg L
−1
) and Mn (25.0 mg L
−1
) were added to each of the different matrices to simulate a Fe and Mn rich environment. In addition to their natural concentration, each sample was spiked with 5.0 μg L
−1
As(III and V) and Sb(III and V) and 15.0 μg L
−1
Se(IV and VI). As potential preservation strategies, EDTA alone and EDTA combined with HCl, HNO
3
, formic acid or acetic acid were investigated and compared to unpreserved samples. In addition, preserved samples were stored at 4°C in the dark, while unpreserved samples were stored at room temperature in the presence of light. The results showed that the addition of EDTA combined with acidification to a pH of 3 successfully preserved all three redox couples for at least 11 weeks stored at 4°C in the dark. EDTA alone (pH = 6) failed to preserve the As and Sb species, although it successfully preserved the Se species. Primarily based on observations made for the unpreserved samples, it was concluded that Sb(III) could be oxidized easier than As(III) and Se(IV) at neutral pH, and that the Se species in general were most stable. The formation of Fe-(oxy) hydroxide and possibly Mn-(oxy) hydroxide in the unpreserved samples also allowed an estimation of the relative adsorption behaviour. Arsenic(III), Sb(III), Se(IV)) and As(V) showed a strong adsorption affinity for Fe-(oxy) hydroxide and Mn-(oxy) hydroxide probably due to the fact that they all form inner sphere complexes, whereas Sb(V) and Se(VI) rarely adsorbed because they form outer sphere complexes and thus bond via weak electrostatic adsorption. Antimony(III) could chelate with EDTA and formed several complexes according to pH. The most stable species of Sb(III)Y
−
(Y = EDTA) existed at a pH range of 1.8 to 3.0. Apparently Sb(V), on the other hand, did not chelate with EDTA and thus should exist mainly in the form of Sb(OH)
6
−
and minor Sb(OH)
5
in this pH range.
The NF-κB essential modulator (NEMO) controls podocyte cytoskeletal dynamics independently of NF-κB
Authors: Brähler Sebastian , Ising Christina , Barrera Aranda Belén , Höhne Martin , Schermer Bernhard , Benzing Thomas , Brinkkoetter Paul Thomas
Published: August 2015

Maintenance of the glomerular filtration barrier with its fenestrated endothelium, the glomerular basement membrane, and the podocytes as the outer layer, is a major prerequisite for proper renal function. Tight regulation of the balance between plasticity and rigidity of the podocytes' architecture is required to prevent the onset of glomerular disease, mainly proteinuria. The underlying cellular signaling pathways that regulate the organization of the podocytes' cytoskeleton are still a matter of controversial debate. In this study, we investigated the role of the NF-κB signaling pathway in podocyte cytoskeletal dynamics. As previously published, genetic inhibition of the NF-κB essential modulator (NEMO) in podocytes does not affect glomerular function under physiological, nonstressed conditions nor does it alter the initial podocyte response in an experimental glomerulonephritis (NTN) model (Brähler S, Ising C, Hagmann H, Rasmus M, Hoehne M, Kurschat C, Kisner T, Goebel H, Shankland SJ, Addicks K, Thaiss F, Schermer B, Pasparakis M, Benzing T, Brinkkoetter PT. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 303: F1473–F1475, 2012). Quite the contrary, podocyte-specific NEMO null mice recovered significantly faster and did not develop glomerulosclerosis and end-stage renal failure over time. Here, we show that cytoskeletal rearrangements and increased podocyte motility following stimulation with IL-1, TNF-α, or LPS depend on NEMO. NEMO also regulates the phosphorylation of the MAP kinase ERK1/2 and suppresses the activation of RhoA following stimulation with IL-1. The migratory response and altered ERK1/2 phosphorylation is independent of NF-κB signaling as demonstrated by expression of a mutant IκB resistant to phosphorylation and degradation. In conclusion, signaling through NEMO might not only be involved in the production of NF-κB proinflammatory chemokines but also regulates podocyte dynamics independently of NF-κB, most likely through small GTPases and MAP kinases.
Evolutionary Game Analysis of Cooperation between Microgrid and Conventional Grid
Authors: Pan Chengrong , Long Yong
Published: August 2015

This paper employs the evolutionary game theory to analyze the cooperation between microgrid and conventional grid, with the discussion focusing on the factors that influence the game players’ selection of strategies, and additionally makes a numerical simulation analysis. The results of analysis based on the evolutionary game model suggest that the two parties’ undertaking of cooperative strategies and uncooperative strategies during the game is the stable point of their evolution and that the probability of their unanimous choice of cooperative strategies positively correlates with the direct benefits and indirect benefits of their cooperation as well as the government subsidies but negatively correlates with the cooperation costs and spending on cooperation risks. Based on the findings, the paper puts forward a series of policy suggestions aiming to deepen the cooperation between microgrid and conventional grid.
Regeneration of Spent Lubricant Refining Clays by Solvent Extraction
Authors: Wang Yan-zhen , Xu Hai-long , Gao Li , Yan Meng-meng , Duan Hong-ling , Song Chun-min
Published: August 2015

Step-by-step solvent extraction was used to regenerate spent clay by recovering the adsorbed oil in lubricating oil refining clay. Several polar and nonpolar solvents were tested, and petroleum ether (90–120°C) and ethanol (95 v%) were selected as the nonpolar and polar solvents, respectively. The spent clay was first extracted using petroleum ether (90–120°C) to obtain ideal oil and then extracted with a mixed solvent of petroleum ether (90–120°C) and ethanol (95 v%) two or three times to obtain nonideal oil before being extracted with ethanol and water. Finally, the clay was dried at 130°C to obtain regenerated clay. The total oil recovery can be more than 99 wt% of the adsorbed oil. The recovered ideal oil can be used as lubricating base oil. Shorter storage times for spent clay produce better regeneration results. The regenerated clay can be reused to refine the lubricating base oils.
Evaluation of AgNORs in Oral Potentially Malignant Lesions
Authors: Tomazelli Karin Berria , Modolo Filipe , Rivero Elena Riet Correa
Published: August 2015

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is usually preceded by detectable mucosal changes, as leukoplakias and erythroplakia. Histologically, these lesions can range from hyperkeratosis and acanthosis to epithelial dysplasia and even OSCC. The aim of this study was to investigate the proliferative activity, using AgNORs quantification proteins, in low- and high-risk oral epithelial dysplasia, OSCC, and nondysplastic epithelium (inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia). The sample was divided into 4 groups: G1: 10 cases of inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia (IFH), G2: 11 cases of low-risk epithelial dysplasia (LD), G3: 10 cases of high-risk epithelial dysplasia (HD), and G4: 11 cases of OSCC. The quantitative analysis was performed using an image processing software in photomicrographs at 1000x magnification. The one-way ANOVA was used for comparison of the mean AgNORs counts between the study groups. The mean AgNORs count was significantly higherP≤0.01in OSCC when compared to IFH and the LD; however, it was not statistically different from HD. The mean number of LD was significantly lower than the HD and OSCC, with no difference related to IFH. AgNORs quantification can be an important and cheap method to help in the determination of the degree of epithelial dysplasia and, consequently, in the analysis of their potential for malignant transformation.
Vehicular Causation Factors and Conceptual Design Modifications to Reduce Aortic Strain in Numerically Reconstructed Real World Nearside Lateral Automotive Crashes
Authors: Belwadi Aditya , Yang King H.
Published: August 2015

Aortic injury (AI) leading to disruption of the aorta is an uncommon but highly lethal consequence of trauma in modern society. Most recent estimates range from 7,500 to 8,000 cases per year from a variety of causes. It is observed that more than 80% of occupants who suffer an aortic injury die at the scene due to exsanguination into the chest cavity. It is evident that effective means of substantially improving the outcome of motor vehicle crash-induced AIs is by preventing the injury in the first place. In the current study, 16 design of computer experiments (DOCE) were carried out with varying levels of principal direction of force (PDOF), impact velocity, impact height, and impact position of the bullet vehicle combined with occupant seating positions in the case vehicle to determine the effects of these factors on aortic injury. Further, a combination of real world crash data reported in the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) database, Finite Element (FE) vehicle models, and the Wayne State Human Body Model-II (WSHBM-II) indicates thatoccupant seating position, impact height, and PDOF, in that order play, a primary role in aortic injury.
Enterprise-Oriented IoT Name Service for Agricultural Product Supply Chain Management
Authors: Liu Yi , Wang He , Wang Junyu , Qian Kan , Kong Ning , Wang Kaijiang , Zheng Lirong , Shi Yiwei , Engels Daniel W.
Published: August 2015

Internet of Things (IoT) technologies have a great potential to improve the safety and quality of agricultural products. By providing near continuous monitoring from planting through harvesting and to our homes, IoT technologies are able to provide farm to fork visibility with all of the resulting benefits that accrue from that visibility. Unique identification provides the foundation of these benefits with a name service enabling efficient storage and retrieval of the data associated with each identifier. In this work, we present iotNS, a simple, efficient enterprise-oriented name service designed for agricultural products. The iotNS provides five times faster response than the standard GS1 ONS system. The iotNS has been deployed across five cities to enable the efficient storage and retrieval of information about agricultural products as they are tracked from the farm to the market. The deployment has shown that the visibility provided by iotNS is a mechanism that fosters cooperation and supply chain improvements among the enterprises using the iotNS.
Combining Independent Component and Grey Relational Analysis for the Real-Time System of Hand Motion Identification Using Bend Sensors and Multichannel Surface EMG
Authors: Chen Pei-Jarn , Du Yi-Chun
Published: August 2015

This paper proposes a portable system for hand motion identification (HMI) using the features from data glove with bend sensors and multichannel surface electromyography (SEMG). SEMG could provide the information of muscle activities indirectly for HMI. However it is difficult to discriminate the finger motion like extension of thumb and little finger just using SEMG; the data glove with five bend sensors is designed to detect finger motions in the proposed system. Independent component analysis (ICA) and grey relational analysis (GRA) are used to data reduction and the core of identification, respectively. Six features are extracted from each SEMG channel, and three features are computed from five bend sensors in the data glove. To test the feasibility of the system, this study quantitatively compares the classification accuracies of twenty hand motions collected from 10 subjects. Compared to the performance with a back-propagation neural network and only using GRA method, the proposed method provides equivalent accuracy (>85%) with three training sets and faster processing time (20 ms). The results also demonstrate that ICA can effectively reduce the size of input features with GRA methods and, in turn, reduce the processing time with the low price of reduced identification rates.
Development and Validation of a Portable Human Body Joint Power Test System
Authors: Li Lin , Ji Zhongqiu , Xia Ye , Gong Rui
Published: August 2015

A portable human body joint power test system was developed using inertial sensor technology and wireless Bluetooth acquisition technology. A detailed description of the internal structure of the system and the data processing method involved is provided. The test system uses the cubic spline interpolation method, which is very convenient for obtaining the maximum peak points of muscle isotonic contraction joint power curves under different loads. Moreover, the system is portable and can be deployed in the classroom and the playground for education and testing. The test system is very useful in many respects, such as athlete selection and daily strength training. We established a model of our subject using a balanced proportion scaling method in the inverse dynamics software AnyBody modeling system. The muscle model uses the Hill muscle model. The data import interface program was written in the parameterized model definition language AnyScript to import data. The raw data was smoothed with a Butterworth low-pass filter. Dumbbell curl simulation was conducted in AnyBody. The results of the simulation and those of the real test system were tested using the paired samples t-test method; the value of Sig was determined to be greater than 0.05, indicating no significant difference and that the data of the test system are valid.
A Novel Statistical Model for Water Age Estimation in Water Distribution Networks
Authors: Cheng Wei-ping , Liu En-hua , Liu Jing-qing
Published: August 2015

The water retention time in the water distribution network is an important indicator for water quality. The water age fluctuates with the system demand. The residual chlorine concentration varies with the water age. In general, the concentration of residual chlorine is linearly dependent on the water demand. A novel statistical model using monitoring data of residual chlorine to estimate the nodal water age in water distribution networks is put forward in the present paper. A simplified two-step procedure is proposed to solve this statistical model. It is verified by two virtual systems and a practical application to analyze the water distribution system of Hangzhou city, China. The results agree well with that from EPANET. The model provides a low-cost and reliable solution to evaluate the water retention time.
Analysis of AKAP7γ Dimerization
Authors: Singh Arpita , Rigatti Marc , Le Andrew V. , Carlson Cathrine R. , Moraru Ion I. , Dodge-Kafka Kimberly L.
Published: August 2015

A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) constitute a family of scaffolding proteins that contribute to spatiotemporal regulation of PKA-mediated phosphorylation events. In particular, AKAP7 is a family of alternatively spliced proteins that participates in cardiac calcium dynamics. Here, we demonstrate via pull-down from transfected cells and by direct protein-protein association that AKAP7γ self-associates. Self-association appears to be an isoform specific phenomenon, as AKAP7α did not associate with itself or with AKAP7γ. However, AKAP7γ did associate with AKAP7δ, suggesting the long isoforms of the AKAP can form heterodimers. Surface plasmon resonance found that the AKAP7γ self-association occurs via two high affinity binding sites with KD values in the low nanomolar range. Mapping of the binding sites by peptide array reveals that AKAP7γ interacts with itself through multiple regions. Photon counting histogram analysis (PCH) of AKAP7γ-EGFP expressed in HEK-293 cells confirmed that AKAP7γ-EGFP self-associates in a cellular context. Lastly, computational modeling of PKA dynamics within AKAP7γ complexes suggests that oligomerization may augment phosphorylation of scaffolded PKA substrates. In conclusion, our study reveals that AKAP7γ forms both homo- and heterodimers with the long isoforms of the AKAP and that this phenomenon could be an important step in mediating effective substrate phosphorylation in cellular microdomains.
Biomarkers of Brain Damage and Postoperative Cognitive Disorders in Orthopedic Patients: An Update
Authors: Tomaszewski Dariusz
Published: August 2015

The incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in orthopedic patients varies from 16% to 45%, although it can be as high as 72%. As a consequence, the hospitalization time of patients who developed POCD was longer, the outcome and quality of life were worsened, and prolonged medical and social assistance were necessary. In this review the short description of such biomarkers of brain damage as the S100B protein, NSE, GFAP, Tau protein, metalloproteinases, ubiquitin C terminal hydrolase, microtubule-associated protein, myelin basic protein,α-II spectrin breakdown products, and microRNA was made. The role of thromboembolic material in the development of cognitive decline was also discussed. Special attention was paid to optimization of surgical and anesthetic procedures in the prevention of postoperative cognitive decline.
Severe Burns and Amputation of Both Arms in the First Psychotic Episode of a Schizophrenic Patient
Authors: Cruzado Lizardo , Villafane-Alva Ronald , Caballero-Atencio Katia , Cortez-Vergara Carla , Núñez-Moscoso Patricia
Published: August 2015

An alleged reduction of sensitivity to pain in people with schizophrenia has been reported, but the nature of this complex phenomenon has not been elucidated yet. Reports of insensitivity to burns from people with schizophrenia are extremely rare. We report the case of a 24-year-old man who set both of his arms on fire during the first break of paranoid schizophrenia. As a result of severe tissue damage, both of his limbs had to be amputated. Today, at the age of 59, the patient is physically and mentally rehabilitated and is adherent to treatment. Additionally, given the uncertainty about the true nature of the alleged hypoalgesia in schizophrenia, we postulate the need for a comprehensive phenomenological approach in the study of embodiment in people with this condition.
A Two-Stage Simulated Annealing Algorithm for the Many-to-Many Milk-Run Routing Problem with Pipeline Inventory Cost
Authors: Lin Yu , Bian Zheyong , Sun Shujing , Xu Tianyi
Published: August 2015

In recent years, logistics systems with multiple suppliers and plants in neighboring regions have been flourishing worldwide. However, high logistics costs remain a problem for such systems due to lack of information sharing and cooperation. This paper proposes an extended mathematical model that minimizes transportation and pipeline inventory costs via the many-to-many Milk-run routing mode. Because the problem is NP hard, a two-stage heuristic algorithm is developed by comprehensively considering its characteristics. More specifically, an initial satisfactory solution is generated in the first stage through a greedy heuristic algorithm to minimize the total number of vehicle service nodes and the best insertion heuristic algorithm to determine each vehicle’s route. Then, a simulated annealing algorithm (SA) with limited search scope is used to improve the initial satisfactory solution. Thirty numerical examples are employed to test the proposed algorithms. The experiment results demonstrate the effectiveness of this algorithm. Further, the superiority of the many-to-many transportation mode over other modes is demonstrated via two case studies.
The Study on Detection Method of Water Vapor on Boundary Layer Based on Multiagent System
Authors: Dongdong Xu , Jie Zhou , Jingming Xia , Zhenyu Lu , Hai Huan
Published: August 2015

A method of detecting water vapor on boundary layer based on multiagent system is proposed in this paper. Multiagent system receives electromagnetic signals emitted by the telecommunication base station. Due to the analysis of the actual electromagnetic wave signal propagation path in the atmosphere, atmospheric refraction index and moisture inversion are discussed in this paper. And the feasibility of using electromagnetic detection method is also analyzed. A multiagent system is designed to receive the electromagnetic signals. The composition and function of the multiagent system are clearly described. The atmospheric refractivity is detected by the multiagent system in three weather conditions of sunny, foggy, and rainy days. The results demonstrate the feasibility of water vapor detection method of multiagent system boundary by comparing the result of experiment with traditional method.
Phenotypic and Molecular Characterisation of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase ProducingEscherichia coliObtained from Animal Fecal Samples in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
Authors: Olowe Olugbenga Adekunle , Adewumi Olufunmilayo , Odewale Gbolabo , Ojurongbe Olusola , Adefioye Olusolabomi Jose
Published: August 2015

Production of extended-spectrumβ-lactamases (ESBLs) producingE. coliin animals and different methods of identifications from Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, were investigated. Three hundred and fifty fecal samples, collected from apparently healthy cattle and pigs, were cultured and identified following standard procedures. ESBL phenotypic detection was carried out using combination disc test, double disc synergism test, and ESBL brilliance agar screening. Molecular detection of TEM, SHV, and CTX-M genes was carried out using standard molecular method. One hundred and fourteenE. coliisolates were recovered from the 350 samples processed, out of which 72 (63.2%) isolates were positive for ESBLs with multiple resistance to the antibiotics used. Eighty-one (71%) isolates were positive for ESBL by combination disc test, 90 (78.9%) were positive for double disc synergism test, and 93 (81.6%) were positive for ESBL brilliance agar. TEM and CTX-M genes were detected in 48 (42.1%) and 51 (44.7%) isolates, respectively. SHV gene was not detected in any of the isolates while TEM and CTX-M were detected in 33 (28.9%) isolates. This study showed high resistance ofE. colito antibiotics, particularly to the third generation cephalosporins. Regular monitoring and regulated use of antibiotics in livestock should be encouraged.
Numerical Study of Turbulent Pulsatile Blood Flow through Stenosed Artery Using Fluid-Solid Interaction
Authors: Jahangiri Mehdi , Saghafian Mohsen , Sadeghi Mahmood Reza
Published: August 2015

The turbulent pulsatile blood flow through stenosed arteries considering the elastic property of the wall is investigated numerically. During the numerical model validation both standardk-εmodel and RNGK-εmodel are used. Compared with the RNGK-εmodel, the standardK-εmodel shows better agreement with previous experimental results and is better able to show the reverse flow region. Also, compared with experimental data, the results show that, up to 70% stenosis, the flow is laminar and for 80% stenosis the flow becomes turbulent. Assuming laminar or turbulent flow and also rigid or elastic walls, the results are compared with each other. The investigation of time-averaged shear stress and the oscillatory shear index for 80% stenosis show that assuming laminar flow will cause more error than assuming a rigid wall. The results also show that, in turbulent flow compared with laminar flow, the importance of assuming a flexible artery wall is more than assuming a rigid artery wall.
Neural Plastic Effects of Cognitive Training on Aging Brain
Authors: Leung Natalie T. Y. , Tam Helena M. K. , Chu Leung W. , Kwok Timothy C. Y. , Chan Felix , Lam Linda C. W. , Woo Jean , Lee Tatia M. C.
Published: August 2015

Increasing research has evidenced that our brain retains a capacity to change in response to experience until late adulthood. This implies that cognitive training can possibly ameliorate age-associated cognitive decline by inducing training-specific neural plastic changes at both neural and behavioral levels. This longitudinal study examined the behavioral effects of a systematic thirteen-week cognitive training program on attention and working memory of older adults who were at risk of cognitive decline. These older adults were randomly assigned to the Cognitive Training Group (n=109) and the Active Control Group (n=100). Findings clearly indicated that training induced improvement in auditory and visual-spatial attention and working memory. The training effect was specific to the experience provided because no significant difference in verbal and visual-spatial memory between the two groups was observed. This pattern of findings is consistent with the prediction and the principle of experience-dependent neuroplasticity. Findings of our study provided further support to the notion that the neural plastic potential continues until older age. The baseline cognitive status did not correlate with pre- versus posttraining changes to any cognitive variables studied, suggesting that the initial cognitive status may not limit the neuroplastic potential of the brain at an old age.
Comparative Sensitivity Analysis of Muscle Activation Dynamics
Authors: Rockenfeller Robert , Günther Michael , Schmitt Syn , Götz Thomas
Published: August 2015

We mathematically compared two models of mammalian striated muscle activation dynamics proposed by Hatze and Zajac. Both models are representative for a broad variety of biomechanical models formulated as ordinary differential equations (ODEs). These models incorporate parameters that directly represent known physiological properties. Other parameters have been introduced to reproduce empirical observations. We used sensitivity analysis to investigate the influence of model parameters on the ODE solutions. In addition, we expanded an existing approach to treating initial conditions as parameters and to calculating second-order sensitivities. Furthermore, we used a global sensitivity analysis approach to include finite ranges of parameter values. Hence, a theoretician striving for model reduction could use the method for identifying particularly low sensitivities to detect superfluous parameters. An experimenter could use it for identifying particularly high sensitivities to improve parameter estimation. Hatze’s nonlinear model incorporates some parameters to which activation dynamics is clearly more sensitive than to any parameter in Zajac’s linear model. Other than Zajac’s model, Hatze’s model can, however, reproduce measured shifts in optimal muscle length with varied muscle activity. Accordingly we extracted a specific parameter set for Hatze’s model that combines best with a particular muscle force-length relation.
How Predictable Is the Operative Time of Laparoscopic Surgery for Ovarian Endometrioma?
Authors: Gambadauro Pietro , Campo Vincenzo , Campo Sebastiano
Published: August 2015

Endometriosis is a tricky albeit common disease whose management largely relies on laparoscopy. We have studied the operative times of laparoscopic endometrioma surgery in order to assess their predictability and possible predictors. One hundred forty-eight laparoscopies were included, with a median operative time of 70 minutes (mean 75.14; 95% CI: 70.03–80.24). Half of the cases had a duration within 15–20 minutes above or below the median (IQR: 55–93.75), but the whole dataset ranged from 20 to 180 minutes, and the standard deviation was relatively large (31.4). Surgical times were significantly related to technical (number and size of the cysts) and nontechnical factors (age, parity, dysmenorrhea, and family history). At multiple logistic regression, after adjusting for number and size of the cysts, surgical times below the first quartile were associated with older age (>30 years old: aOR: 3.590; 95% CI: 1.417–9.091) and parity (≥1 delivery: aOR: 3.409; 95% CI: 1.343–8.651). Longer times, above the third quartile, were instead predicted by a familial anamnesis of endometriosis (aOR: 3.639; 95% CI: 1.246–10.627). Our findings indicate highly variable surgical times, which are predicted by unexpected nontechnical factors. This is consistent with the complexity of endometriosis and its treatment. Productivity and efficiency in endometriosis surgery should focus on the quality of healthcare outcomes rather than on the time spent in the operating theatres.
Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks: Architectures, Research Issues, Methodologies, Challenges, and Trends
Authors: Liang Wenshuang , Li Zhuorong , Zhang Hongyang , Wang Shenling , Bie Rongfang
Published: August 2015

Vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs) have been quite a hot research area in the last few years. Due to their unique characteristics such as high dynamic topology and predictable mobility, VANETs attract so much attention of both academia and industry. In this paper, we provide an overview of the main aspects of VANETs from a research perspective. This paper starts with the basic architecture of networks, then discusses three popular research issues and general research methods, and ends up with the analysis on challenges and future trends of VANETs.
An Improved Teaching-Learning-Based Optimization with Differential Learning and Its Application
Authors: Zou Feng , Wang Lei , Chen Debao , Hei Xinhong
Published: August 2015

The teaching-learning-based optimization (TLBO) algorithm is a population-based optimization algorithm which is based on the effect of the influence of a teacher on the output of learners in a class. A variant of teaching-learning-based optimization (TLBO) algorithm with differential learning (DLTLBO) is proposed in the paper. In this method, DLTLBO utilizes a learning strategy based on neighborhood search of teacher phase in the standard TLBO to generate a new mutation vector, while utilizing a differential learning to generate another new mutation vector. Then DLTLBO employs the crossover operation to generate new solutions so as to increase the diversity of the population. By the integration of the local search and the global search, DLTLBO achieves a tradeoff between exploration and exploitation. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our approaches, 24 benchmark functions are used for simulating and testing. Moreover, DLTLBO is used for parameter estimation of digital IIR filter and experimental results show that DLTLBO is superior or comparable to other given algorithms for the employed examples.
On Finsler Geometry and Applications in Mechanics: Review and New Perspectives
Authors: Clayton J. D.
Published: August 2015

In Finsler geometry, each point of a base manifold can be endowed with coordinates describing its position as well as a set of one or more vectors describing directions, for example. The associated metric tensor may generally depend on direction as well as position, and a number of connections emerge associated with various covariant derivatives involving affine and nonlinear coefficients. Finsler geometry encompasses Riemannian, Euclidean, and Minkowskian geometries as special cases, and thus it affords great generality for describing a number of phenomena in physics. Here, descriptions of finite deformation of continuous media are of primary focus. After a review of necessary mathematical definitions and derivations, prior work involving application of Finsler geometry in continuum mechanics of solids is reviewed. A new theoretical description of continua with microstructure is then outlined, merging concepts from Finsler geometry and phase field theories of materials science.
Bifurcation Analysis and Chaos Control in a Discrete Epidemic System
Authors: Tan Wei , Gao Jianguo , Fan Wenjun
Published: August 2015

The dynamics of discreteSIepidemic model, which has been obtained by the forward Euler scheme, is investigated in detail. By using the center manifold theorem and bifurcation theorem in the interiorR+2, the specific conditions for the existence of flip bifurcation and Neimark-Sacker bifurcation have been derived. Numerical simulation not only presents our theoretical analysis but also exhibits rich and complex dynamical behavior existing in the case of the windows of period-1, period-3, period-5, period-6, period-7, period-9, period-11, period-15, period-19, period-23, period-34, period-42, and period-53 orbits. Meanwhile, there appears the cascade of period-doubling 2, 4, 8 bifurcation and chaos sets from the fixed point. These results show the discrete model has more richer dynamics compared with the continuous model. The computations of the largest Lyapunov exponents more than 0 confirm the chaotic behaviors of the systemx→x+δ[rN(1-N/K)-βxy/N-(μ+m)x],y→y+δ[βxy/N-(μ+d)y]. Specifically, the chaotic orbits at an unstable fixed point are stabilized by using the feedback control method.
Enhanced Antitumor Activity of an Anti-5T4 Antibody–Drug Conjugate in Combination with PI3K/mTOR inhibitors or Taxanes
Authors: Shor Boris , Kahler Jennifer , Dougher Maureen , Xu Jane , Mack Michelle , Rosfjord Ed , Wang Fang , Melamud Eugene , Sapra Puja
Published: August 2015

Purpose: Targeted treatment of solid or liquid tumors with antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) can lead to promising clinical benefit. The aim of the study is to investigate combination regimens of auristatin-based ADCs in preclinical models of cancer.

Experimental Design: An auristatin-based anti-5T4 antibody conjugate (5T4-ADC) and auristatin payloads were combined with the dual PI3K/mTOR catalytic site inhibitor PF-05212384 (PF-384) or taxanes in a panel of tumor cell lines. Drug interactions in vitro were evaluated using cell viability assays, apoptosis induction, immunofluorescence, mitotic index, and immunoblotting. Breast cancer cells treated with auristatin analogue or 5T4-ADC were profiled by total- and phospho-proteomics. Antitumor efficacy of selected combinations was evaluated in 5T4-positive human breast or lung tumor xenografts in vivo.

Results: In vitro, auristatin-based agents displayed strong synergistic or additive activity when combined with PF-384 or taxanes, respectively. Further, treatment of 5T4-ADC plus PF-384 resulted in stronger induction of apoptosis and cell line–specific attenuation of pAKT and pGSK. Interestingly, proteomic analysis revealed unique effects of auristatins on multiple components of mRNA translation. Addition of PF-384 further amplified effects of 5T4-ADC on translational components, providing a potential mechanism of synergy between these drugs. In human tumor xenografts, dual targeting with 5T4-ADC/PF-384 or 5T4-ADC/paclitaxel produced substantially greater antitumor effects with longer average survival as compared with monotherapy treatments.

Conclusions: Our results provide a biologic rationale for combining 5T4-ADC with either PI3K/mTOR pathway inhibitors or taxanes and suggest that mechanisms underlying the synergy may be attributed to cellular effects of the auristatin payload. Clin Cancer Res; 22(2); 383–94. ©2015 AACR.
Evaluation of p40 as a Myoepithelial Marker in Different Breast Lesions
Authors: Kővári Bence , Szász A. Marcell , Kulka Janina , Marušić Zlatko , Šarčević Bozena , Tiszlavicz László , Cserni Gábor
Published: August 2015

Objective: The identification of myoepithelial cells (MEC) is a valuable clue in the differential diagnosis of breast lesions. A series of breast lesions with occasional absence of or decrease in the staining for some MEC markers was analyzed for the expression of a novel marker, p40, and results were compared to the p63 staining profile. Methods: Samples (n = 34) from patients with benign sclerosing lesions (n = 11), ductal carcinoma in situ (n = 13) and adenomyoepithelial lesions (n = 10) and associated normal breast tissues (n = 31) were selected to evaluate the differential expression of p40 and p63 using immunohistochemistry. Triple-negative, cytokeratin 5 (CK5)-expressing invasive breast carcinomas (n = 19) were also assessed for p40 expression. Results: Normal structures showed similar diffuse and strong MEC positivity using p40 and p63 in all 31 cases. The two antibodies performed similarly in all 34 breast lesions acknowledged to present altered expression of MEC markers; focal losses of expression occurred in a parallel fashion. CK5-positive carcinomas expressed p40 more frequently than p63 (18/19 vs. 8/19) and the staining was more marked. Conclusions: It seems that both antibodies can be used interchangeably for MEC identification, but show differences in the labeling at least in a subset of tumor cells in triple-negative carcinomas.
Radiological and Pathological Predictors of Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer: A Brief Literature Review
Authors: Parekh Tejal , Dodwell David , Sharma Nisha , Shaaban Abeer M.
Published: August 2015

Background: Early clinical response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in breast cancer correlates with pathological response at surgery. A tailored approach using biomarkers to predict response to NACT has become a research priority. Predictors of response can be divided into pathological and radiological biomarkers. Advances in gene expression profiling and diffusion-weighted MRI techniques are used to predict tumour response, and combinations thereof are the future of predicting response to NACT in early-stage breast cancer. Methods: We searched Medline, CINAHL and Embase databases for studies on NACT. Key words used were NACT, breast cancer, pathological* complete response, primary chemotherapy, radiological*, predictor*, gene expression and biomarkers limited to the English language. Pathological markers such as tumour subtypes, topoisomerase IIα expression, Ki67, apoptosis-related markers and gene expression profiling were included. Results: From 119 articles, 42 studies were reviewed; the majority of studies identified used pathological clinical response as an end point to NACT, whilst others used complete clinical response. Despite extensive studies, results regarding long-term survival following NACT and potential predictors are inconclusive. Conclusion: Future development of a predictive model combining key pathological and radiological biomarkers could provide personalised treatment regimens that improve pathological complete response rates and longer-term outcomes.
Brain-Sparing in Intrauterine Growth Restriction: Considerations for the Neonatologist
Authors: Cohen Emily , Baerts Willem , van Bel Frank
Published: August 2015

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is most commonly caused by placental insufficiency, in response to which the fetus adapts its circulation to preserve oxygen and nutrient supply to the brain (‘brain-sparing'). Currently, little is known about the postnatal course and consequences of this antenatal adaptation of the cerebral circulation. The altered cerebral haemodynamics may persist after birth, which would imply a different approach with regard to cerebral monitoring and clinical management of IUGR preterm neonates than their appropriately grown peers. Few studies are available with regard to this topic, and the small body of evidence shows controversy. This review discusses the cerebral circulatory adaptations of IUGR fetuses and appraises the available literature on their postnatal cerebral circulation with potential clinical consequences.