bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uukuniemi Phlebovirus Assembly and Secretion Leave a Functional Imprint on the Virion Glycome
Authors: Crispin Max , Harvey David J. , Bitto David , Halldorsson Steinar , Bonomelli Camille , Edgeworth Matthew , Scrivens James H. , Huiskonen Juha T. , Bowden Thomas A.
Published: June 2014

Uukuniemi virus (UUKV) is a model system for investigating the genus
Phlebovirus
of the
Bunyaviridae
. We report the UUKV glycome, revealing differential processing of the Gn and Gc virion glycoproteins. Both glycoproteins display poly-
N
-acetyllactosamines, consistent with virion assembly in the medial Golgi apparatus, whereas oligomannose-type glycans required for DC-SIGN-dependent cellular attachment are predominant on Gc. Local virion structure and the route of viral egress from the cell leave a functional imprint on the phleboviral glycome.
Unfortunate timing…
Authors: Jones Bruce Vivash
Published: June 2014

While researching a different subject in the archives of the RCVS, Bruce Vivash Jones discovered a box of pristine badges for the 10th International Veterinary Congress, which was to have been held in London in August 1914. Intrigued by why the badges were unused, he began to investigate the history of the congress. Reading official transcripts and contemporaneous news reports revealed how, despite meticulous planning and determined fundraising, the congress was overtaken by events
Investigations on the mechanisms of interactions between matrix metalloproteinase 9 and its flavonoid inhibitors using a combination of molecular docking, hybrid quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical calculations, and molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Zhou Zhi-Guang , Yao Qi-Zheng , Lei Dong , Zhang Qing-Qing , Zhang Ji
Published: June 2014

Many experimental studies have found that flavonoids can inhibit the activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), but the relevant mechanisms are still unclear. In this paper, the interaction mechanisms of MMP-9 with its five flavonoid inhibitors are investigated using a combination of molecular docking, hybrid quantum mechanical and molecular mechanical (QM/MM) calculations, and molecular dynamics simulations. The molecular dynamics simulation results show a good linear correlation between the calculated binding free energies of QM/MM−Poisson–Boltzmann surface area (PBSA) and the experimental −log(EC50) regarding the studied five flavonoids on MMP-9 inhibition in explicit solvent. It is found that compared with the MM−PBSA method, the QM/MM−PBSA method can obviously improve the accuracy for the calculated binding free energies. The predicted binding modes of the five flavonoid−MMP-9 complexes reveal that the different hydrogen bond networks can form besides producing the Zn−O coordination bonds, which can reasonably explain previous experimental results. The agreement between our calculated results and the previous experimental facts indicates that the force field parameters used here are effective and reliable for investigating the systems of flavonoid−MMP-9 interactions, and thus, these simulations and analyses could be reproduced for the other related systems involving protein−ligand interactions. This paper may be helpful for designing the new MMP-9 inhibitors having higher biological activities by carrying out the structural modifications of flavonoid molecules.
Hydrocarbonoclastic biofilms based on sewage microorganisms and their application in hydrocarbon removal in liquid wastes
Authors: Al-Mailem D.M. , Kansour M.K. , Radwan S.S.
Published: June 2014

Attempts to establish hydrocarbonoclastic biofilms that could be applied in waste-hydrocarbon removal are still very rare. In this work, biofilms containing hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria were successfully established on glass slides by submerging them in oil-free and oil-containing sewage effluent for 1 month. Culture-dependent analysis of hydrocarbonoclastic bacterial communities in the biofilms revealed the occurrence of the genera Pseudomonas, Microvirga, Stenotrophomonas, Mycobacterium, Bosea, and Ancylobacter. Biofilms established in oil-containing effluent contained more hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria than those established in oil-free effluent, and both biofilms had dramatically different bacterial composition. Culture-independent analysis of the bacterial flora revealed a bacterial community structure totally different from that determined by the culture-dependent method. In microcosm experiments, these biofilms, when used as inocula, removed between 20% and 65% crude oil, n-hexadecane, and phenanthrene from the surrounding effluent in 2 weeks, depending on the biofilm type, the hydrocarbon identity, and the culture conditions. More of the hydrocarbons were removed by biofilms established in oil-containing effluent than by those established in oil-free effluent, and by cultures incubated in the light than by those incubated in the dark. Meanwhile, the bacterial numbers and diversities were enhanced in the biofilms that had been previously used in hydrocarbon bioremediation. These novel findings pave a new way for biofilm-based hydrocarbon bioremediation, both in sewage effluent and in other liquid wastes.
Constraints of energy conditions and DK instability criterion on f(R, Lm) gravity models
Authors: Wu Ya-Bo , Zhao Yue-Yue , Jin Yong-Yi , Lin Liang-Liang , Lu Jian-Bo , Zhang Xue
Published: June 2014

Some properties of f(R, Lm) gravity are studied in this paper. Concretely, the energy conditions and the Dolgov–Kawasaki (DK) instability criterion in f(R, Lm) gravity are obtained, which are quite general and can degenerate to the ones in General Relativity (GR) and pure f(R) gravity with non-coupling and non-minimal coupling as well as in [J. Wang and K. Liao, Class. Quantum Grav. 29, 215016 (2012)] as special cases. Furthermore, in order to get some insight on the meaning of the energy conditions and the DK instability criterion, we apply them to the concrete type of f(R, Lm) gravity models and the corresponding constraints on the models are given.
PRESENT STATUS OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT IN MEXICO
Authors: GONZÁLEZ JUAN CARLOS TEJEDA , DE LA TORRE MA. CATALINA ALFARO , MILÁN PEDRO MEDELLÍN
Published: June 2014

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) has been recognised worldwide as a tool that helps to assure the inclusion of environmental aspects in the formulation of policies, plans and programmes (PPPs) and citizen participation into the higher levels of decision-making processes. Despite of its relevance, Mexico is to date one of the few Latin-American countries which do not have this tool inserted in its legal and institutional frameworks. In this paper we present the results of a literature review of the historical development of SEA in the world and its legal framework and current state in Mexico.
STUDY ON ELECTROHYDRODYNAMIC CAPILLARY INSTABILITY OF VISCOELASTIC FLUIDS WITH RADIAL ELECTRIC FIELD
Authors: AWASTHI MUKESH KUMAR
Published: June 2014

We study the linear analysis of electrohydrodynamic capillary instability of the interface between a viscous fluid and viscoelastic fluid of Maxwell type, when the phases are enclosed between two horizontal cylindrical surfaces coaxial with the interface, and when fluids are subjected to the radial electric field. Here, we use an irrotational theory known as viscous potential flow (VPF) theory in which viscosity enters through normal stress balance but shearing stresses are assumed to be zero. A quadratic dispersion relation that accounts for the growth of axisymmetric waves is obtained and stability criterion is given in terms of a critical value of wave number as well as electric field. It is observed that the radial electric field has dual effect on the stability of the system.
Homogeneous spaces of Hilbert type
Authors: Borovoi Mikhail
Published: June 2014

Let k be a global field. Let G be a connected linear algebraic k-group, assumed reductive when k is a function field. It follows from a result of a paper by Bary-Soroker, Fehm and Petersen that when H is a smooth connected k-subgroup of G, the quotient space G/H is of Hilbert type. We prove a similar result for certain non-connected k-subgroups H of G. In particular, we prove that if G is a simply connected k-group over a number field k, and H is an abelian k-subgroup of G, not necessarily connected, then G/H is of Hilbert type.
Number theoretic applications of a class of Cantor series fractal functions, II
Authors: Li Brian , Mance Bill
Published: June 2014

It is well known that all numbers that are normal of order k in base b are also normal of all orders less than k. Another basic fact is that every real number is normal in base b if and only if it is simply normal in base bkfor all k. This may be interpreted to mean that a number is normal in base b if and only if all blocks of digits occur with the desired relative frequency along every infinite arithmetic progression. We reinterpret these theorems for the Q-Cantor series expansions and show that they are no longer true in a particularly strong way. The main theoretical result of this paper will be to reduce the problem of constructing normal numbers with certain pathological properties to the problem of solving a system of Diophantine relations.
New results on permutation polynomials over finite fields
Authors: Qin Xiaoer , Qian Guoyou , Hong Shaofang
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we get several new results on permutation polynomials over finite fields. First, by using the linear translator, we construct permutation polynomials of the forms [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. These forms generalize the results obtained by Kyureghyan in 2011. Consequently, we characterize permutation polynomials of the form [Formula: see text], which extends a theorem of Charpin and Kyureghyan obtained in 2009.
MODELING OF A HELICALLY COILED HFC134a EVAPORATOR
Authors: DABAS J. K. , KUMAR SUDHIR , DODEJA A. K. , KASANA K. S.
Published: June 2014

A computer simulation model has been developed for the performance analysis and design optimization of a helical coil and cylindrical shell type evaporator working with HFC-134a by using the appropriate empirical correlations of heat transfer coefficient and pressure drop in the helical tubes as available in the literature. This model is based on a numerical method of cell discretization of shell side and tube side of the evaporator. The local values of variables are calculated and the mass, momentum and energy balance is applied to each small cell. The whole sequential and iterative procedure to satisfy the boundary conditions has been transformed in the computer codes. The model has been validated by comparing with the actual results of an experimental study which is also a part of this work. A detailed analysis of the effects of varying input parameters of both fluids on the performance of evaporator was carried out with the help of this model. It also gives the optimum values of mass velocity of refrigerant and the helical tube diameter against the available flow conditions of refrigerant and of external fluid and the required degree of vapor superheat at the exit of evaporator. Thus it provides an easy solution in both the cases of either the performance optimization of an existing evaporator or the design optimization of a new evaporator. The inherent errors in the outcome of correlations for heat transfer, pressure drop and refrigerant properties are the limitations of this model.
Analysis of nonlinear model of gas dynamics in a vertical reactor for gas phase epitaxy
Authors: Pankratov E. L. , Bulaeva E. A.
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we consider a vertical reactor for gas phase epitaxy. Based on the recently obtained results of Pankratov and Bulaeva [2013, Univ. J. Mater. Sci.1, 180–200], we analyzed the dynamics of gas transport in the reactor with account nonlinearity of dynamics and rotation of keeper of substrate with the substrate. Based on the analysis, we formulated recommendation to optimize regime of rotation to increase homogeneity of properties of epitaxial layer.
The NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenyleneiodonium activates the human TRPA1 nociceptor
Authors: Suzuki Hiroka , Hatano Noriyuki , Muraki Yukiko , Itoh Yuka , Kimura Satoko , Hayashi Hidetoshi , Onozaki Kikuo , Ohi Yoshiaki , Haji Akira , Muraki Katsuhiko
Published: June 2014

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is a Ca2+-permeable nonselective cation channel expressed in neuronal and nonneuronal cells and plays an important role in acute and inflammatory pain. Here, we show that an NADPH oxidase (NOX) inhibitor, diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), functions as a TRPA1 activator in human embryonic kidney cells expressing human TRPA1 (HEK-TRPA1) and in human fibroblast-like synoviocytes. Application of DPI at 0.03–10 μM induced a Ca2+ response in HEK-TRPA1 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The Ca2+ response was effectively blocked by a selective TRPA1 antagonist, HC-030031 (HC). In contrast, DPI had no effect on HEK cells expressing TRPV1-V4 or TRPM8. Four other NOX inhibitors, apocynin (APO), VAS2870 (VAS), plumbagin, and 2-acetylphenothiazine, also induced a Ca2+ response in HEK-TRPA1 cells, which was inhibited by pretreatment with HC. In the presence of 5 mM glutathione, the Ca2+ response to DPI was effectively reduced. Moreover, mutation of cysteine 621 in TRPA1 substantially inhibited the DPI-induced Ca2+ response, while it did not inhibit the APO- and VAS-induced responses. The channel activity was induced by DPI in excised membrane patches with both outside-out and inside-out configurations. Internal application of neomycin significantly inhibited the DPI-induced inward currents. In inflammatory synoviocytes with TRPA1, DPI evoked a Ca2+ response that was sensitive to HC. In mice, intraplantar injection of DPI caused a pain-related response which was inhibited by preadministration with HC. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that DPI and other NOX inhibitors activate human TRPA1 without mediating NOX.
Cellular Mechanisms of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Signaling in Health and Disease. 2. Protein misfolding and ER stress
Authors: Chambers Joseph E. , Marciniak Stefan J.
Published: June 2014

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a major site of protein synthesis, most strikingly in the specialized secretory cells of metazoans, which can produce their own weight in proteins daily. Cells possess a diverse machinery to ensure correct folding, assembly, and secretion of proteins from the ER. When this machinery is overwhelmed, the cell is said to experience ER stress, a result of the accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the lumen of the organelle. Here we discuss the causes of ER stress and the mechanisms by which cells elicit a response, with an emphasis on recent discoveries.
Biphasic changes in fetal heart rate variability in preterm fetal sheep developing hypotension after acute on chronic lipopolysaccharide exposure
Authors: Lear Christopher A. , Davidson Joanne O. , Booth Lindsea C. , Wassink Guido , Galinsky Robert , Drury Paul P. , Fraser Mhoyra , Bennet Laura , Gunn Alistair J.
Published: June 2014

Perinatal exposure to infection is highly associated with adverse outcomes. Experimentally, acute, severe exposure to gram-negative bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is associated with increased fetal heart rate variability (FHRV). It is unknown whether FHRV is affected by subclinical infection with or without acute exacerbations. We therefore tested the hypothesis that FHRV would be associated with hypotension after acute on chronic exposure to LPS. Chronically instrumented fetal sheep at 0.7 gestation were exposed to a continuous low-dose LPS infusion ( n = 12, 100 ng/kg over 24 h, followed by 250 ng·kg−1·24 h−1 for a further 96 h) or the same volume of saline ( n = 10). Boluses of either 1 μg LPS or saline were given at 48, 72, and 96 h. Low-dose infusion was not associated with hemodynamic or FHRV changes. The first LPS bolus was associated with tachycardia and suppression of nuchal electromyographic activity in all fetuses. Seven of twelve fetuses developed hypotension (a fall in mean arterial blood pressure ≥5 mmHg). FHRV was transiently increased only at the onset of hypotension, in association with increased cytokine induction and electroencephalogram suppression. FHRV then fell before the nadir of hypotension, with transient suppression of short-term FHRV. After the second LPS bolus, the hypotension group showed a biphasic pattern of a transient increase in FHRV followed by more prolonged suppression. These findings suggest that infection-related hypotension in the preterm fetus mediates the transient increase in FHRV and that repeated exposure to LPS leads to progressive loss of FHRV.
The SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin ameliorates early features of diabetic nephropathy in BTBR ob/ob type 2 diabetic mice with and without hypertension
Authors: Gembardt Florian , Bartaun Christoph , Jarzebska Natalia , Mayoux Eric , Todorov Vladimir T. , Hohenstein Bernd , Hugo Christian
Published: June 2014

Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in humans in the Western world. The recent development of Na+-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors offers a new antidiabetic therapy via enhanced glucose excretion. Whether this strategy exerts beneficial effects on the development of type 2 diabetic nephropathy is still largely unclear. We investigated the effects of the specific SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin in BTBR.Cg-Lep/WiscJ (BTBR ob/ ob) mice, which spontaneously develop type 2 diabetic nephropathy. In the first experiment, BTBR ob/ ob mice received either a diet containing 300 ppm empagliflozin or equicaloric placebo chow for 12 wk. In the second experiment, BTBR ob/ ob mice received 1 μg·kg body wt−1·day−1 ANG II to induce arterial hypertension and were separated into the same two diet groups for 6 wk. In both experiments, empagliflozin treatment enhanced glucosuria, thereby lowering blood glucose. Independently of hypertension, empagliflozin reduced albuminuria in diabetic mice. However, empagliflozin treatment affected diabetes-related glomerular hypertrophy, markers of renal inflammation, and mesangial matrix expansion only in BTBR ob/ ob mice without hypertension. In summary, empagliflozin demonstrated significant antihyperglycemic effects, differentially ameliorating early features of diabetic nephropathy in BTBR ob/ ob mice with and without hypertension.
A 23-Year-Old Female with a Mixed Germ Cell Tumor of the Pituitary Infundibulum: The Challenge of Differentiating Neoplasm from Lymphocytic Infundibuloneurohypophysitis—A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Mon Sann Yu , Mahmud Hussain , Abbasi Munira , Murdoch Geoff , Fernandez-Miranda Juan C. , Gardner Paul A. , Challinor Sue M.
Published: June 2014

The pathologic spectrum of diseases that infiltrate the pituitary infundibulum includes a broad variety of clinical entities. There are significant differences in the prevalence of these etiologies depending on the age of presentation. Lymphocytic infundibuloneurohypophysitis (LINH) predominates over other causes of infundibular disease in adults over age 21. Differentiating LINH from other causes of infundibular disease can be difficult because the various etiologies often have similar clinical presentations and radiologic imaging characteristics. We report the first case in an adult of a mixed germ cell tumor comprised of germinoma and embryonal cell carcinoma infiltrating the pituitary infundibulum. In our case, a 23-year-old female was initially misdiagnosed as having LINH. She presented with panhypopituitarism and diabetes insipidus, which is the most common initial presentation in both entities. The two diagnoses are difficult to distinguish based on MRI imaging, CSF findings, and histopathological examination. Our case demonstrates the need for close follow-up of patients with isolated lesions of the pituitary infundibulum and reinforces the need for biopsy of an infundibular lesion when progression of disease is demonstrated. In our case, biopsy with comprehensive immunohistochemical staining was the sole means of making a definitive diagnosis.
Optic Neuritis Caused by Rathke’s Cleft Cyst in Young Adult
Authors: Kobayashi Namie , Oshitari Toshiyuki , Kobayashi Kentaro , Onoda Takatsugu , Ikeda Hidetoshi , Adachi-Usami Emiko
Published: June 2014

We report a case of right optic neuritis caused by Rathke's cleft cyst (RCC) in a young adult. A 15-year-old boy presented with reduced visual acuity in the right eye. He was diagnosed with optic neuritis in the right eye 4 years earlier at other clinics before he was referred to our department. During our one-year examinations, the cause of the reduced vision in his right eye could not be determined conclusively. At the age of 17 years, a RCC was detected by a neurosurgeon who specialized in hypophyseal diseases. He underwent microscopic transsphenoidal resection of the cyst, and his vision recovered to 1.2 and he has had no recurrence for at least 9 months. We suggest that repeated rupturing of the RCC was the cause of the optic neuritis, and a RCC can be successfully treated by surgery even after 3 years of optic neuritis.
Fixed Point Theorems on Nonlinear Binary Operator Equations with Applications
Authors: Qiao Baomin
Published: June 2014

The existence and uniqueness for solution of systems of some binary nonlinear operator equations are discussed by using cone and partial order theory and monotone iteration theory. Furthermore, error estimates for iterative sequences and some corresponding results are obtained. Finally, the applications of our results are given.
Neuromodulatory Effects of Hesperidin in Mitigating Oxidative Stress in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetes
Authors: Ashafaq Mohammad , Varshney Laxmi , Khan Mohammad Haaris Ajmal , Salman Mohd. , Naseem Mehar , Wajid Saima , Parvez Suhel
Published: June 2014

Oxidative stress has been implicated in pathogenesis of streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetes mellitus and its complication in central nervous system (CNS). Recent studies have provided insights on antioxidants and their emergence as potential therapeutic and nutraceutical. The present study examined the hypothesis that hesperidin (HP) ameliorates oxidative stress and may be a limiting factor in the extent of CNS complication following diabetes. To test this hypothesis rats were divided into four groups: control, diabetic, diabetic-HP treated, and vehicle for HP treatment group. Diabetes mellitus was induced by a single injection of STZ (65 mg/kg body weight). Three days after STZ injection, HP was given (50 mg/kg b.wt. orally) once daily for four weeks. The results of the present investigation suggest that the significant elevated levels of oxidative stress markers were observed in STZ-treated animals, whereas significant depletion in the activity of nonenzymatic antioxidants and enzymatic antioxidants was witnessed in diabetic rat brain. Neurotoxicity biomarker activity was also altered significantly. HP treatment significantly attenuated the altered levels of oxidative stress and neurotoxicity biomarkers. Our results demonstrate that HP exhibits potent antioxidant and neuroprotective effects on the brain tissue against the diabetic oxidative damage in STZ-induced rodent model.
Inference for One-Way ANOVA with Equicorrelation Error Structure
Authors: Mu Weiyan , Wang Xiaojing
Published: June 2014

We consider inferences in a one-way ANOVA model with equicorrelation error structures. Hypotheses of the equality of the means are discussed. A generalizedF-test has been proposed by in the literature to compare the means of all populations. However, they did not discuss the performance of that test. We propose two methods, a generalized pivotal quantities-based method and a parametric bootstrap method, to test the hypotheses of equality of the means. We compare the empirical performance of the proposed tests with the generalizedF-test. It can be seen from the simulation results that the generalizedF-test does not perform well in terms of Type I error rate, and the proposed tests perform much better. We also provide corresponding simultaneous confidence intervals for all pair-wise differences of the means, whose coverage probabilities are close to the confidence level.
A Few Inequalities Established by Using Fractional Calculus and Their Applications to Certain Multivalently Analytic Functions
Authors: Irmak Hüseyin
Published: June 2014

By making use of different techniques given in Miller and Mocanu (2000) (and also in Jack (1971)), some recent results consisting of certain multivalently analytic functions given both in Irmak (2005) and in Irmak (2010) are firstly restated and some of their applications are then pointed out.
Broadband Semielliptical Patch Antenna with Semicircular Ring Slot for WiMax Application
Authors: Shrama Brajraj , Sharma Vijay , Sharma K. B. , Bhatnagar D.
Published: June 2014

This paper reports the design and analysis of a semielliptical patch antenna modified by cutting semicircular ring slot in patch geometry and obtained results are discussed. The reported antenna is designed on a multilayered substrate material having two glass epoxy FR-4 substrates separated by a thin foam substrate having thickness 1.0 mm. The size of ground plane is 75 mm×75 mm, whereas the patch dimension along major and minor axes is 23.0 mm and 14.0 mm, respectively. The two modes corresponding to resonance frequencies 3.39 GHz and 3.73 GHz are excited to provide wide impedance bandwidth 21.1% with respect to central frequency with stable radiation patterns. The antenna shows circular polarization with axial ratio bandwidth 5.5% and minimum axial ratio value 1.65 dBi. The radiation patterns of proposed antenna are normal to the surface of patch and are almost identical in shape as required for practical applications. The proposed antenna covers entire median band of WiMax communication systems ranges from 3.40 GHz to 3.6 GHz.
Ultrasonographic Fetal Growth Charts: An Informatic Approach by Quantitative Analysis of the Impact of Ethnicity on Diagnoses Based on a Preliminary Report on Salentinian Population
Authors: Tinelli Andrea , Bochicchio Mario Alessandro , Vaira Lucia , Malvasi Antonio
Published: June 2014

Clear guidance on fetal growth assessment is important because of the strong links between growth restriction or macrosomia and adverse perinatal outcome in order to reduce associated morbidity and mortality. Fetal growth curves are extensively adopted to track fetal sizes from the early phases of pregnancy up to delivery. In the literature, a large variety of reference charts are reported but they are mostly up to five decades old. Furthermore, they do not address several variables and factors (e.g., ethnicity, foods, lifestyle, smoke, and physiological and pathological variables), which are very important for a correct evaluation of the fetal well-being. Therefore, currently adopted fetal growth charts are inadequate to support the melting pot of ethnic groups and lifestyles of our society. Customized fetal growth charts are needed to provide an accurate fetal assessment and to avoid unnecessary obstetric interventions at the time of delivery. Starting from the development of a growth chart purposely built for a specific population, in the paper, authors quantify and analyse the impact of the adoption of wrong growth charts on fetal diagnoses. These results come from a preliminary evaluation of a new open service developed to produce personalized growth charts for specific ethnicity, lifestyle, and other parameters.
Power-Aware Data Transmission for Real-Time Communication in Multimedia Sensor Networks
Authors: Rhee Soyeon , Choi Hyon-Young , Lee Hyun-Jung , Park Myong-Soon
Published: June 2014

The availability of smart sensors equipped CMOS cameras made it possible to capture and transmit multimedia data ubiquitously. The real-time performance is essential in many applications including surveillance and healthcare monitoring in multimedia sensor networks (MSNs). One of the real-time performance indicators is to transmit the packets within their deadline. Furthermore, in information-rich, battery-powered, and resource-constrained MSNs, it is a challenging problem to extend network lifetime decreasing communication cost. In previous researches, periodic message exchange for neighbor information maintenance leads to reducing network lifetime. This paper presents a power-aware data transmission for real-time communication in MSNs. The proposed scheme not only provides real-time performance, but also conserves energy consumption through efficient transmission and without periodic message exchange. The simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme in achieving the desired deadline success ratio and prolonging the network lifetime.
Ecofriendly Application of Nanomaterials: Nanobioremediation
Authors: Rizwan Md. , Singh Man , Mitra Chanchal K. , Morve Roshan K.
Published: June 2014

Nanomaterials exhibit unique physical and chemical properties and, hence, they have received much attention from scientists and researchers in different areas of environmental sciences, specifically in bioremediation. Bioremediation provides a good clean-up strategy for some types of waste, but as it is expected, it will not be useful for all. For example, bioremediation may not provide a feasible strategy at sites with high concentrations of chemicals that are toxic to most microorganisms. These include heavy metals and salt. Further, the advancement in science and technology has increased standard of living which directly or indirectly contributes to the increase in waste and toxic material. Therefore, the remediation of contaminants by use of existing technology is not effective and efficient in cleaning up the environment. Hence, nanomaterials may be applied for bioremediation, which will not only have less toxic effect on microorganisms, but will also improve the microbial activity of the specific waste and toxic material which will reduce the overall time consumption as well as reduce the overall cost. In this paper we have briefly summarized the major types of nanomaterials that have been used so far in bioremediation of waste and toxic materials.
Coastal Boundary Layer Characteristics of Wind, Turbulence, and Surface Roughness Parameter over the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station, India
Authors: Namboodiri K. V. S. , Puthillam Krishnan Dileep , Karunakaran Nileshwar Rahul , Mammen Koshy , Kiran kumar Nadimpally
Published: June 2014

The study discusses the features of wind, turbulence, and surface roughness parameter over the coastal boundary layer of the Peninsular Indian Station, Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS). Every 5 min measurements from an ultrasonic anemometer at 3.3 m agl from May 2007 to December 2012 are used for this work. Symmetries in mesoscale turbulence, stress off-wind angle computations, structure of scalar wind, resultant wind direction, momentum flux (M), Obukhov length (L), frictional velocity (u*), w-component, turbulent heat flux (H), drag coefficient (CD), turbulent intensities, standard deviation of wind directions (σθ), wind steadiness factor-σθrelationship, bivariate normal distribution (BND) wind model, surface roughness parameter (z0),z0and wind direction (θ) relationship, and variation ofz0with the Indian South West monsoon activity are discussed.
The High-Speed Train Seat Design Based on the Human Lumbar Biomechanical Analysis
Authors: Guo Yunpeng , Song Guiqiu
Published: June 2014

This paper, aimed at the problems of high-speed train seat design standards that lack biomechanical analysis, analyzed the lumbar force of sitting position and verified the validity of the finite element model of human lumbar L1–L5 that had been built by reverse engineering technology. Based on the lumbar force distribution, the methods of exterior penalty and moving least square were adopted to establish a high-speed train seat equation that caters for physical ergonomics and a new high-speed train seat model was designed so as to improve the comfort for passengers.
Characteristics of Bilayer Molybdenum Films Deposited Using RF Sputtering for Back Contact of Thin Film Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Sea-Fue , Yang Hsiao-Ching , Liu Chien-Fong , Bor Huy-Yun Y.
Published: June 2014

Mo films prepared under a single deposition condition seldom simultaneously obtain a low resistivity and a good adhesion necessary for use in solar cells. In order to surmount the obstacle, bilayer Mo films using DC sputtering at a higher working pressure and a lower working pressure have been attempted as reported in the literature. In this study, RF sputtering with different powers in conjunction with different working pressures was explored to prepare bilayer Mo film. The first bottom layer was grown at a RF sputtering power of 30 W and a working pressure of 12 mTorr, and the second top layer was deposited at 100 W and 4.5 mTorr. The films revealed a columnar growth with a preferred orientation along the (110) plane. The bilayer Mo films reported an electrical resistivity of 6.35 × 10−5 Ω-cm and passed the Scotch tape test for adhesion to the soda-lime glass substrate, thereby qualifying the bilayer Mo films for use as back metal contacts for CIGS substrates.
Optimum Time-Censored Constant-Stress PALTSP for the Burr Type XII Distribution Using Tampered Failure Rate Model
Authors: Srivastava P. W. , Sharma D.
Published: June 2014

This paper presents optimum design of time-censored constant-stress partially accelerated life test sampling plan (PALTSP) in which each item runs either at use or at accelerated conditions and product life follows Burr type XII. The optimal plan consists in finding out sample proportions allocated to both use and accelerated conditions by minimizing the asymptotic variance of test statistic for deciding on acceptance/rejection of the lot such that producer’s and consumer’s interests are safeguarded. The method developed has been illustrated using an example. Sensitivity analysis has also been carried out.
Existence and Uniqueness of the Solutions for Fractional Differential Equations with Nonlinear Boundary Conditions
Authors: Liu Xiping , Li Fanfan , Jia Mei , Zhi Ertao
Published: June 2014

We study the existence and uniqueness of the solutions for the boundary value problem of fractional differential equations with nonlinear boundary conditions. By using the upper and lower solutions method in reverse order and monotone iterative techniques, we obtain the sufficient conditions of both the existence of the maximal and minimal solutions between an upper solution and a lower solution and the uniqueness of the solutions for the boundary value problem and present the iterative sequence for calculating the approximate analytical solutions of the boundary value problem and the error estimate. An example is also given to illustrate the main results.
Clinical Usefulness of Novel Serum and Imaging Biomarkers in Risk Stratification of Patients with Stable Angina
Authors: Tsaknis George , Tsangaris Iraklis , Ikonomidis Ignatios , Tsantes Argirios
Published: June 2014

Inflammatory mediators appear to be the most intriguing yet confusing subject, regarding the management of patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). The current inflammatory concept of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD) led many investigators to concentrate on systemic markers of inflammation, as well as imaging techniques, which may be helpful in risk stratification and prognosis assessment for cardiovascular events. In this review, we try to depict many of the recently studied markers regarding stable angina (SA), their clinical usefulness, and possible future applications in the field.
System of Operator Quasi Equilibrium Problems
Authors: Khan Suhel Ahmad
Published: June 2014

We consider a system of operator quasi equilibrium problems and system of generalized quasi operator equilibrium problems in topological vector spaces. Using a maximal element theorem for a family of set-valued mappings as basic tool, we derive some existence theorems for solutions to these problems with and without involving Φ-condensing mappings.
Dosimetric Algorithm to Reproduce Isodose Curves Obtained from a LINAC
Authors: Estrada Espinosa Julio Cesar , Martínez Ovalle Segundo Agustín , Pereira Benavides Cinthia Kotzian
Published: June 2014

In this work isodose curves are obtained by the use of a new dosimetric algorithm using numerical data from percentage depth dose (PDD) and the maximum absorbed dose profile, calculated by Monte Carlo in a 18 MV LINAC. The software allows reproducing the absorbed dose percentage in the whole irradiated volume quickly and with a good approximation. To validate results an 18 MV LINAC with a whole geometry and a water phantom were constructed. On this construction, the distinct simulations were processed by the MCNPX code and then obtained the PDD and profiles for the whole depths of the radiation beam. The results data were used by the code to produce the dose percentages in any point of the irradiated volume. The absorbed dose for any voxel’s size was also reproduced at any point of the irradiated volume, even when the voxels are considered to be of a pixel’s size. The dosimetric algorithm is able to reproduce the absorbed dose induced by a radiation beam over a water phantom, considering PDD and profiles, whose maximum percent value is in the build-up region. Calculation time for the algorithm is only a few seconds, compared with the days taken when it is carried out by Monte Carlo.
Power Control for Direct-Driven Permanent Magnet Wind Generator System with Battery Storage
Authors: Guang Chu Xiao , Ying Kong
Published: June 2014

The objective of this paper is to construct a wind generator system (WGS) loss model that addresses the loss of the wind turbine and the generator. It aims to optimize the maximum effective output power and turbine speed. Given that the wind generator system has inertia and is nonlinear, the dynamic model of the wind generator system takes the advantage of the duty of the Buck converter and employs feedback linearization to design the optimized turbine speed tracking controller and the load power controller. According to that, this paper proposes a dual-mode dynamic coordination strategy based on the auxiliary load to reduce the influence of mode conversion on the lifetime of the battery. Optimized speed and power rapid tracking as well as the reduction of redundant power during mode conversion have gone through the test based on a 5 kW wind generator system test platform. The generator output power as the capture target has also been proved to be efficient.
Prediction of Four Kinds of Simple Supersecondary Structures in Protein by Using Chemical Shifts
Authors: Yonge Feng
Published: June 2014

Knowledge of supersecondary structures can provide important information about its spatial structure of protein. Some approaches have been developed for the prediction of protein supersecondary structure. However, the feature used by these approaches is primarily based on amino acid sequences. In this study, a novel model is presented to predict protein supersecondary structure by use of chemical shifts (CSs) information derived from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Using these CSs as inputs of the method of quadratic discriminant analysis (QD), we achieve the overall prediction accuracy of 77.3%, which is competitive with the same method for predicting supersecondary structures from amino acid compositions in threefold cross-validation. Moreover, our finding suggests that the combined use of different chemical shifts will influence the accuracy of prediction.
Mixed Depression: Clinical Features and Predictors of Its Onset Associated with Antidepressant Use
Authors: Sani Gabriele , Napoletano Flavia , Vöhringer Paul A. , Sullivan Matthew , Simonetti Alessio , Koukopoulos Athanasios , Danese Emanuela , Girardi Paolo , Ghaemi Nassir
Published: June 2014

Background: Mixed depression (MxD) is narrowly defined in the DSM-IV and somewhat broader in the DSM-5, although both exclude psychomotor agitation as a diagnostic criterion. This article proposes a clinical description for defining MxD, which emphasizes psychomotor excitation. Methods: Two hundred and nineteen consecutive outpatients were diagnosed with an MxD episode using criteria proposed by Koukopoulos et al. [Acta Psychiatr Scand 2007;115(suppl 433):50-57]; we here report their clinical features and antidepressant-related effects. Results: The most frequent MxD symptoms were: psychic agitation or inner tension (97%), absence of retardation (82%), dramatic description of suffering or weeping spells (53%), talkativeness (49%), and racing or crowded thoughts (48%). MxD was associated with antidepressants in 50.7% of patients, with similar frequency for tricyclic antidepressants (45%) versus selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (38.5%). Positive predictors of antidepressant-associated MxD were bipolar disorder type II diagnosis, higher index depression severity, and higher age at index episode. Antipsychotic or no treatment was protective against antidepressant-associated MxD. Conclusions: MxD, defined as depression with excitatory symptoms, can be clinically identified, is common, occurs in both unipolar depression and bipolar disorder, and is frequently associated with antidepressant use. If replicated, this view of MxD could be considered a valid alternative to the DSM-5 criteria for depression with mixed features.
Estrogen Intake and Copper Depositions: Implications for Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Amtage Florian , Birnbaum Dzelila , Reinhard Thomas , Niesen Wolf-Dirk , Weiller Cornelius , Mader Irina , Meyer Philipp T. , Rijntjes Michel
Published: June 2014

We present a patient with chronic postmenopausal estrogen intake with presence of Kayser-Fleischer ring in the cornea and Alzheimer's disease and discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms of estrogen intake and copper accumulation in various tissues, including the central nervous system. Sonography was compatible with copper accumulation in the basal ganglia, but the patient showed no clinical signs of Wilson's disease. Magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography revealed a typical pattern for Alzheimer's disease. We propose increased copper levels as a direct effect of estrogen intake due to an augmented ATP7A-mRNA in the intestine. Moreover, we discuss the impact of elevated free serum copper on accompanying Alzheimer's disease, knowing that copper plays a crucial role in the formation of amyloid plaques and tau aggregation. This might offer a partial explanation for the observation that postmenopausal estrogen therapy is associated with a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease.
Two new Horaiclavus (Horaiclavidae, Conoidea) species from the Indo-Pacific region
Authors: BONFITTO ANTONIO , MORASSI MAURO
Published: June 2014

The genus Horaiclavus includes eight Holocene Indo-Pacific species (Appeltans et al. 2012). Herein, we describe two new species that resemble members of this genus in some aspects of shell morphology, but otherwise show features that suggest that they differ from “typical” Horaiclavus species. Descriptions and measurements were based on shells oriented spire up with the aperture facing the viewer and made using a Leica MS 5 Stereomicroscope for incident light and a 10× ocular micrometer. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs were taken using a Hitachi S-2400. The classification adopted here follows Bouchet et al. (2011). The following abbreviations are used in the text: MZB = Museo di Zoologia dell’Università di Bologna; MNHN = Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France; NHMUK = The Natural History Museum of United Kingdom [formerly British Museum (Natural History)], London, United Kingdom; ZMA = Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; ZRC = Zoological Reference Collection, Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research, Singapore; a = aperture length; b = shell width; l = length; a/l = ratio of aperture length to total shell length; b/l = ratio of shell breadth to total length; dd= dead collected specimen(s); stn. = station.
Five new species of Centorisoma Becker from China, with an updated key to world species (Diptera, Chloropidae)
Authors: LIU XIAOYAN , YANG DING
Published: June 2014

A review of the species of the genus Centorisoma Becker from China is provided. The following 5 species are described as new to science: C. convexum sp. nov., C. mediconvexum sp. nov., C. neimengguensis sp. nov., C. pentagonium sp. nov. and C. sexangulatum sp. nov. An updated key to the world species of genus Centorisoma is given.
Taxonomy, phylogeny and host plants of some Abia sawflies
(Hymenoptera, Cimbicidae)
Authors: Liston Andrew D. , Savina Henri , Nagy Zoltán Tamás , Sonet Gontran , Boevé Jean-Luc
Published: June 2014

We briefly review the taxonomy of Abia, and attempt to clarify their systematics by phylogenetic tree reconstructions inferred from three (nuclear and mitochondrial) genes of some West Palaearctic and Nearctic species. The main question which we asked is whether the distinction, made by several authors, of two genera within this group is justified. Based on the species here sampled, our results strongly support a clade recognised widely in earlier literature as Abia or Abia (Abia), but do not always support another clade, Zaraea or Abia (Zaraea), as monophyletic. In the interests of nomenclatural stability and for other practical reasons, the two nominal genera should be treated as synonyms. Host plant associations may be useful in the systematics of Abia species, but this topic requires further investigation and inclusion of more species in phylogenetic analyses.
On the Use of a Radial-Based Noise Power Estimation Technique to Improve Estimates of the Correlation Coefficient on Dual-Polarization Weather Radars
Authors: Ivić Igor R.
Published: June 2014

A weather surveillance radar antenna intercepts thermal radiation from various sources, including the ground, the sun, the sky, and precipitation. In the radar receiver, this external radiation produces noise that adds to the receiver internal noise and results in the system noise power varying with the antenna position. If these variations are not captured, they translate into erroneous signal powers because these are computed via subtraction of noise power measurements from the overall power estimates. This may lead to biased meteorological variables at low to moderate signal-to-noise ratios if those are computed using signal power estimates. In dual-polarization radars, this problem is even more pronounced, particularly for correlation coefficient estimates that use noise power measurements from both the horizontal and vertical channels. An alternative is to use estimators that eliminate the need for noise corrections but require sufficient correlation of signals in sample time, which limits their applicability. Therefore, when the use of the latter is inappropriate, the quality of correlation coefficient estimates can be improved by computing them using sufficiently accurate noise powers measured at each antenna position. An effective technique that estimates the noise powers in real time at each scan direction and in parallel with weather data collection has been proposed. Herein, the impacts of such a technique on the estimation of the correlation coefficient are investigated. The results indicate that the use of more accurate noise power estimates can significantly reduce the bias of correlation coefficient estimates, thus visibly improving the correlation coefficient fields. This is expected because the correlation coefficient is computed using noise power measurements from both the horizontal and vertical channels.