bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPLITTING A 4-MANIFOLD WITH INFINITE CYCLIC FUNDAMENTAL GROUP, REVISED
Authors: KAWAUCHI AKIO
Published: December 2013

This article is a revised version of the author's earlier paper on a TOP-splitting of a closed connected oriented 4-manifold with infinite cyclic fundamental group. We show that a closed connected oriented 4-manifold with infinite cyclic fundamental group is TOP-split if it is virtually TOP-split. As a consequence, we see that a closed connected oriented 4-manifold with infinite cyclic fundamental group is TOP-split if the intersection form is indefinite. This also implies that every closed connected oriented smooth spin 4-manifold with infinite cyclic fundamental group is TOP-split.
FORMING THE BORROMEAN RINGS OUT OF ARBITRARY POLYGONAL UNKNOTS
Authors: HOWARDS HUGH NELSON
Published: December 2013

We prove that given any three polygonal unknots in ℝ3, then we may form the Borromean rings out of them through rigid motions of ℝ3 applied to the individual components together with possible scaling of the components. We also prove that if at least two of the unknots are planar, then we do not need scaling. This is true even for a set of three polygonal unknots that are arbitrarily close to three circles, which themselves cannot be used to form the Borromean rings.
ON THE KNOT FLOER FILTRATION OF THE CONCORDANCE GROUP
Authors: HANCOCK STEPHEN , HOM JENNIFER , NEWMAN MICHAEL
Published: December 2013

The knot Floer complex together with the associated concordance invariant ε can be used to define a filtration on the smooth concordance group. We show that the indexing set of this filtration contains ℕ × ℤ as an ordered subset.
SIMULATION OF UNDERWATER ACOUSTICAL FIELD FLUCTUATIONS IN SHALLOW SEA WITH RANDOM INHOMOGENEITIES OF SOUND SPEED: DEPTH-DEPENDENT ENVIRONMENT
Authors: GULIN OLEG E. , YAROSHCHUK IGOR O.
Published: December 2013

Statistical problems encountered in the study of the influence of random inhomogeneities in layered shallow water on the propagation of sound signal is considered. The study is carried out by the example of two-layer models of the sea — a stochastic Pekeris waveguide and a waveguide with a regular refraction in the water layer, which describes the presence of the thermocline. The results were obtained by statistical simulation without approximations and assumptions. In the middle frequency range for actual parameters of sound speed fluctuations in shallow sea with a loss penetrable bottom, the specific features of acoustic field statistical moments behavior have been discovered. They did not get adequate attention in the scientific literature.
FORWARD AND BACKWARD MODAL STATISTICS FOR ROUGH SEABED SURFACE SCATTERING IN SHALLOW WATER
Authors: KNOBLES D. P. , SAGERS J. D.
Published: December 2013

Addressed is the physics of sound propagation through a shallow water waveguide whose seabed has a random rough surface. The basic coupled integral equations for the modal amplitudes can be split into forward and backward going coupled integral equations. Numerical solutions of the coupled equations are obtained for multiple roughness realizations from which ensemble averages can be obtained for the modal intensities and cross-mode coherence as a function of range. Sample calculations illustrate some of the basic characteristics of the average cross-mode coherence and intensity with and without seabed attenuation and for different source depths on range scales of 1500 acoustic wavelengths.
REVISITING Xor-IMPLICATIONS: CLASSES OF FUZZY (CO)IMPLICATIONS BASED ON f-Xor (f-XNor) CONNECTIVES
Authors: BEDREGAL BENJAMÍN , REISER RENATA HAX SANDER , DIMURO GRAÇALIZ PEREIRA
Published: December 2013

The main contribution of this paper is the introduction of an intrinsic definition of the connective “fuzzy exclusive or” E (f-Xor E), based only on the properties of boundary conditions, commutativity and partial isotonicity-antitonicity on the the end-points of the unit interval U = [0,1], in a way that the classical definition of the boolean Xor is preserved. We show three classes of the f-Xor E that can be also obtained from the composition of fuzzy connectives, namely, triangular norms, triangular conorms and fuzzy negations. A discussion about extra properties satisfied by the f-Xor E is presented. Additionally, the paper introduces a class of fuzzy equivalences that generalizes the Fodor and Roubens's fuzzy equivalence, and four classes of fuzzy implications induced by the f-Xor E, discussing their main properties. The relationships between those classes of fuzzy implications and automorphisms are explored. The action of automorphisms on f-Xor E is analyzed.
The Nehari manifold approach for N-Laplace equation with singular and exponential nonlinearities in ℝN
Authors: Goyal Sarika , Sreenadh K.
Published: December 2013

In this article, we study the existence and multiplicity of solutions of the singular N-Laplacian equation: [Formula: see text] where N ≥ 2, 0 ≤ q < N - 1 < p + 1, β ∈ [0, N), λ > 0, and h ≥ 0 in ℝN. Using the nature of the Nehari manifold and fibering maps associated with the Euler functional, we prove that there exists λ0such that for λ ∈ (0, λ0), the problem admits at least two positive solutions. We also show that when h(x) > 0, there exists λ0such that (Pλ) has no solution for λ > λ0.
Bifurcation analysis of a singular nonlinear Sturm–Liouville equation
Authors: Castro Hernán
Published: December 2013

In this paper we study existence of positive solutions to the following singular nonlinear Sturm–Liouville equation [Formula: see text] where α > 0, p > 1 and λ are real constants. We prove that when 0 < α ≤ ½ and p > 1 or when ½ < α < 1 and [Formula: see text], there exists a branch of continuous positive solutions bifurcating to the left of the first eigenvalue of the operator ℒαu = -(x2αu′)′ under the boundary condition limx→0x2αu′(x) = 0. The projection of this branch onto its λ component is unbounded in two cases: when 0 < α ≤ ½ and p > 1, and when ½ < α < 1 and [Formula: see text]. On the other hand, when ½ < α < 1 and [Formula: see text], the projection of the branch has a positive lower bound below which no positive solution exists. When 0 < α < ½ and p > 1, we show that a second branch of continuous positive solution can be found to the left of the first eigenvalue of the operator ℒαunder the boundary condition limx→0u(x) = 0. Finally, when α ≥ 1, the operator ℒαhas no eigenvalues under its canonical boundary condition at the origin, and we prove that in fact there are no positive solutions to the equation, regardless of λ ∈ ℝ and p > 1.
Regularity and comparison principles for p-Laplace equations with vanishing source term
Authors: Sciunzi Berardino
Published: December 2013

We prove some sharp estimates on the summability properties of the second derivatives of solutions to the equation –Δpu = f(x), under suitable assumptions on the source term. As an application, we deduce some strong comparison principles for the p-Laplacian, in the case of vanishing source terms.
On PM-rings, rings of finite character and h-local rings
Authors: Mahdou N. , Mimouni A. , Moutui M. A. S.
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we investigate the transfer of the notions of pm-rings, rings of finite character and h-local rings to trivial ring extensions of rings by modules, amalgamations of rings along ideals and pullbacks. Our aim is to provide new classes of commutative rings satisfying these properties and our results generate new families of examples of rings for which the finite character and semi-local properties are equivalents.
Adjunctions and braided objects
Authors: Ardizzoni Alessandro , Menini Claudia
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we investigate the categories of braided objects, algebras and bialgebras in a given monoidal category, some pairs of adjoint functors between them and their relations. In particular, we construct a braided primitive functor and its left adjoint, the braided tensor bialgebra functor, from the category of braided objects to the one of braided bialgebras. The latter is obtained by a specific elaborated construction introducing a braided tensor algebra functor as a left adjoint of the forgetful functor from the category of braided algebras to the one of braided objects. The behavior of these functors in the case when the base category is braided is also considered.
Sums of units in self-injective rings
Authors: Khurana Anjana , Khurana Dinesh , Nielsen Pace P.
Published: December 2013

We prove that if no field of order less than n + 2 is a homomorphic image of a right self-injective ring R, then for any element a ∈ R and central units u1, u2, …, un ∈ U(R) there exists a unit u ∈ U(R) such that a + uiu ∈ U(R) for each i ≥ 1.
On small dual rings
Authors: Shen Liang
Published: December 2013

A ring R is called right (small) dual if every (small) right ideal of R is a right annihilator. Left (small) dual rings can be defined similarly. And a ring R is called (small) dual if R is left and right (small) dual. It is proved that R is a dual ring if and only if R is a semilocal and small dual ring. Several known results are generalized and properties of small dual rings are explored. As applications, some characterizations of QF rings are obtained through small dualities of rings.
Global existence and asymptotic behavior of solutions to the generalized cubic double dispersion equation
Authors: Kawashima Shuichi , Wang Yu-Zhu
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we study the initial value problem for the generalized cubic double dispersion equation in n-dimensional space. Under a small condition on the initial data, we prove the global existence and asymptotic decay of solutions for all space dimensions n ≥ 1. Moreover, when n ≥ 2, we show that the solution can be approximated by the linear solution as time tends to infinity.
A linear backward Euler scheme for a class of degenerate advection–diffusion equations: A mathematical analysis of the convergence in L∞(0, T0;L2(Ω)) and in L2(0, T0;H1(Ω))
Authors: Fadimba Koffi B.
Published: December 2013

This paper concerns itself with establishing convergence estimates for a linearized scheme for solving numerically the saturation equation. In a previous paper, error estimates were obtained for the same scheme in L2(0, T0;L2(Ω)). In this work, we establish error estimates for the linear scheme in L∞(0, T0;L2(Ω)) and in L2(0, T0;H1(Ω)) (in the discrete norms). Under certain realistic conditions, we show that, if the regularization parameter β and the spatial discretization parameter h are carefully chosen in terms of the time-stepping parameter Δt, the convergence, in these spaces, is at least of order O((Δt)α) for some determined α > 0, function of a parameter μ > 0 defined in the problem. Examples of possible choices of β and h in terms of Δt are given.
Weighted norm inequalities for multilinear singular integral operators and applications
Authors: Hu Guoen , Lin Chin-Cheng
Published: December 2013

In this paper, weighted norm inequalities with Ap weights are established for the multilinear singular integral operators whose kernels satisfy certain Lr′-Hörmander regularity condition. As applications, we recover a weighted estimate for the multilinear Fourier multiplier obtained by Fujita and Tomita, and obtain several new weighted estimates for the multilinear Fourier multiplier as well.
A bifurcation result for non-local fractional equations
Authors: Molica Bisci Giovanni , Servadei Raffaella
Published: December 2013

In the present paper, we consider problems modeled by the following non-local fractional equation [Formula: see text] where s ∈ (0, 1) is fixed, (-Δ)sis the fractional Laplace operator, λ and μ are real parameters, Ω is an open bounded subset of ℝn, n > 2s, with Lipschitz boundary and f is a function satisfying suitable regularity and growth conditions. A critical point result for differentiable functionals is exploited, in order to prove that the problem admits at least one non-trivial and non-negative (non-positive) solution, provided the parameters λ and μ lie in a suitable range. The existence result obtained in the present paper may be seen as a bifurcation theorem, which extends some results, well known in the classical Laplace setting, to the non-local fractional framework.
A refined convergence analysis of multigrid algorithms for elliptic equations
Authors: Chang Qianshun , Jia Rong-Qing
Published: December 2013

Multigrid algorithms, in particular, multigrid V-cycles, are investigated in this paper. We establish a general theory for convergence of the multigrid algorithm under certain approximation conditions and smoothing conditions. Our smoothing conditions are satisfied by commonly used smoothing operators including the standard Gauss–Seidel method. Our approximation conditions are verified for finite element approximation to numerical solutions of elliptic partial differential equations without any requirement of additional regularity of the solution. Our convergence analysis of multigrid algorithms can be applied to a wide range of problems. Numerical examples are also provided to illustrate the general theory.
PARAMETER DEPENDENCE OF STABLE MANIFOLDS FOR IMPULSIVE EQUATIONS
Authors: BARREIRA LUIS , VALLS CLAUDIA
Published: December 2013

We establish the existence of stable manifolds under sufficiently small perturbations of a linear impulsive equation. Our results are optimal, in the sense that for vector fields of class C1 outside the jumping times, the invariant manifolds are also of class C1 outside these times. We also consider the case of C1 parameter-dependent perturbations and we establish the C1 dependence of the stable manifolds on the parameter. The proof uses the fiber contraction principle. We emphasize that we consider the general case of nonautonomous equations for which the linear part has a nonuniform exponential dichotomy.
COMPLETE BLOW-UP AND ESTIMATE ON THE LOCALIZATION FOR A QUASILINEAR PARABOLIC EQUATION WITH NONLINEAR SOURCE
Authors: ZHENG PAN , MU CHUNLAI
Published: December 2013

This paper deals with the Cauchy problem for a quasilinear parabolic equation with nonlinear source [Formula: see text] where N ≥ 1, p > 2, m, l, q > 1 and T < ∞ is blow-up time. When q > l + m(p - 2) + p, we first give an upper bound estimate on the localization in terms of the initial support supp u0(x) and the blow-up time T < ∞ provided that the initial function u0(x) is compactly supported. Moreover, for the special case m = l, when [Formula: see text], we obtain the result of complete blow-up and the stability of complete blow-up time provided that the solution u(x, t) blows up in finite time.
A computational study of hexachlorobenzene-soil organic matter-interactions
Authors: Ahmed Ashour A. , Leinweber Peter , Kühn Oliver
Published: December 2013

The fate of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) in soil represents a critical environmental problem. Once HCB has reached the soil it will interact with soil constituents, especially soil organic matter (SOM). The understanding of this interaction is important for choosing effective remediation procedures. Here we report a study of binding of HCB to a test set of molecules, which was developed to mimic representative functional groups of SOM. The binding energy of complexes formed by HCB and the test set molecules were investigated at different levels of theory. Effects of different types of dispersion correction to DFT, basis sets and DFT-functionals have been studied. Moreover, the general ability of dispersion-corrected DFT to represent this interaction has been benchmarked against methods such as MP2 and CCSD. As a result the B3LYP-D3 dispersion correction combined with the 6-311++G(2d,2p) basis set was found to be a compromise between accuracy and efficiency and it is recommended for studying this type of non-covalent interaction. Moreover, the performance of the GROMOS force field in the description of this interaction has been tested.
Theoretical study of the substituent effect on the hydrogen atom transfer mechanism of the irigenin derivatives antioxidant action
Authors: Najafi Meysam , Naqvi Syed Ali Raza
Published: December 2013

In this paper, 21 substituents with various electron donating and electron withdrawing characters were placed in available positions of irigenin in order to study their effect on the O – H bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE) via DFT/B3LYP method. Results indicated the substituents in X3 and X4 positions have exerted stronger influence upon BDE values of irigenin derivatives when compared with same substituents in X1 and X2 positions. The results show that intramolecular hydrogen bond effects are able to considerably stabilize the parents and radicals. The natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis results also confirmed the intramolecular hydrogen bond stabilization. The formation of strong intramolecular hydrogen bonds in several radicals results in low BDEs. The 3- OH BDE values for substituents in X2 position have linear dependencies with Hammett constants (Fig. 2 and Eq. (2)). Found dependencies are suitably linear, that can be important for the synthesis of novel antioxidants based on irigenin.
Quantum chemical predictions of structural, bonding and spectroscopic properties of ruthenanaphthalenes and ring-fused B–N ruthenabenzenes
Authors: Ghiasi Reza , Morasali Azam
Published: December 2013

In this work, the electronic structure and properties of the ruthenanaphthalenes, and ring-fused B – N ruthenabenzenes isomers have been explored using the hybrid density functional mpw1pw91 theory. These calculations show more stability in isomers with Ru – N bond. This is compatible with principles of minimum energy and minimum polarizability. Molecular orbital analysis shows increase of hardness in isomers with Ru – B bonds rather than Ru – N isomers. Also, calculations show that magnitude of the first hyperpolarizability tensor of all molecules is rather moderate. Nucleus-independent chemical shift analysis (NICS) has been used for studying of aromaticity in these species.
Animal Models of Bovine Leukemia Virus and Human T-Lymphotrophic Virus Type-1: Insights in Transmission and Pathogenesis
Authors: Lairmore Michael D.
Published: December 2013

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) and human T-lymphotrophic virus type-1 (HTLV-1) are related retroviruses associated with persistent and lifelong infections and a low incidence of lymphomas within their hosts. Both viruses can be spread through contact with bodily fluids containing infected cells, most often from mother to offspring through breast milk. Each of these complex retroviruses contains typical gag, pol, and env genes but also unique, nonstructural proteins encoded from the pX region. These nonstructural genes encode the Tax and Rex regulatory proteins, as well as novel proteins essential for viral spread in vivo. Improvements in the molecular tools to test these viral determinants in cellular and animal models have provided new insights into the pathogenesis of each virus. Comparisons of BLV and HTLV-1 provide insights into mechanisms of spread and tumor formation, as well as potential approaches to therapeutic intervention against the infections.
From Kanner to DSM-5: Autism as an Evolving Diagnostic Concept
Authors: Volkmar Fred R. , McPartland James C.
Published: December 2013

Seven decades have elapsed since Leo Kanner described the syndrome he termed early infantile autism. Over this time, and particularly over the past two decades, noteworthy changes have occurred in how the condition is conceptualized. Here we provide an overview of these changes, beginning with a brief discussion of the significance of classification in general before discussing Kanner's original paper and subsequent changes. We touch on relevant issues, such as comorbidity, dimensional aspects of diagnosis and screening, and the complex issue of diagnosis relative to eligibility for services. Approaches to diagnosis have tended to swing from emphasizing overarching groups (lumping) to focusing on potentially distinct subgroups (splitting). Autism raises particular problems given the broad range of syndrome expression over age and developmental level. The most recent revision of the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic taxonomy marks a significant departure from its predecessor and has been the focus of much debate. It remains unclear which of the currently existing categorical approaches will ultimately be most widely applied. We hope to convey a sense of areas in which consensus has been achieved and areas of continued controversy.
Drug Approval and Drug Effectiveness
Authors: Spielmans Glen I. , Kirsch Irving
Published: December 2013

Data on the efficacy and safety of psychiatric medicines should form the foundation of evidence-based treatment practices. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviews such data in determining whether to approve new treatments, and the published literature serves as a repository for evidence on treatment benefits and harms. We describe the FDA review of clinical trials, examining the underlying logic and legal guidelines. Several FDA reviews provide evidence that the agency requires only minimal efficacy for psychiatric drugs. Further, in some instances, the FDA has relied on secondary rather than primary outcomes and has discounted the findings of negative studies in its review of antidepressant and antipsychotic medications. The published literature provides another lens into the safety and efficacy of treatments. We describe how treatment efficacy is systematically overstated and treatment-related harms are understated in the scientific literature. Suggestions are provided to improve public access to underlying safety and efficacy data and for the FDA to potentially improve its review process.
Modern Supercritical Fluid Technology for Food Applications
Authors: King Jerry W.
Published: December 2013

This review provides an update on the use of supercritical fluid (SCF) technology as applied to food-based materials. It advocates the use of the solubility parameter theory (SPT) for rationalizing the results obtained when employing sub- and supercritical media to food and nutrient-bearing materials and for optimizing processing conditions. Total extraction and fractionation of foodstuffs employing SCFs are compared and are illustrated by using multiple fluids and unit processes to obtain the desired food product. Some of the additional prophylactic benefits of using carbon dioxide as the processing fluid are explained and illustrated with multiple examples of commercial products produced using SCF media. I emphasize the role of SCF technology in the context of environmentally benign and sustainable processing, as well as its integration into an overall biorefinery concept. Conclusions are drawn in terms of current trends in the field and future research that is needed to secure new applications of the SCF platform as applied in food science and technology.
From Tomato King to World Food Prize Laureate
Authors: Nelson Philip E.
Published: December 2013

This autobiographical article describes my early years, education, and career at Purdue University. Helping form and expand the Department of Food Science at Purdue was exciting and gratifying, and working with students in the classroom and on research projects was rewarding and kept me feeling young. My research on bulk aseptic processing allowed me to help solve problems relevant to the tomato industry, but I learned later that it had much broader relevance. I certainly never expected the impact and visibility of the work to result in my being awarded the World Food Prize. Being the first food scientist to win this award has enabled me to focus increased attention on the need to reduce food losses.
Personality and Cognitive Ability as Predictors of Effective Performance at Work
Authors: Schmitt Neal
Published: December 2013

Conclusions about the validity of cognitive ability and personality measures based on meta-analyses published mostly in the past decade are reviewed at the beginning of this article. Research on major issues in selection that affect the use and interpretation of validation data are then discussed. These major issues include the dimensionality of personality, the nature and magnitude of g in cognitive ability measures, conceptualizations of validity, the nature of the job performance domain, trade-offs between diversity and validity, reactions to selection procedures, faking on personality measures, mediator and moderator research on test–performance relationships, multilevel issues, Web-based testing, the situational framing of test stimuli, and the context in which selection occurs.
State-to-State Spectroscopy and Dynamics of Ions and Neutrals by Photoionization and Photoelectron Methods
Authors: Ng Cheuk-Yiu
Published: December 2013

Recent advances in high-resolution photoionization, photoelectron, and photodissociation studies based on single-photon vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) and two-color infrared (IR)-VUV, visible (Vis)-ultraviolet (UV), and VUV-VUV laser excitations are illustrated with selected examples. VUV laser photoionization coupled with velocity-map-imaging threshold photoelectron (VMI-TPE) detection can achieve comparable energy resolution but has higher-detection sensitivities than those observed in VUV laser pulsed field ionization photoelectron (PFI-PE) measurements. For molecules with known intermediate states, IR-VUV and Vis-UV excitation schemes are highly sensitive for rovibronically selected and resolved PFI-PE studies. The successful applications of the VUV-PFI-PE, VUV-VMI-TPE, and Vis-UV-PFI-PE methods to state-resolved and state-to-state photoelectron studies of transient radicals and transitional metal–containing molecules are highlighted. The most recently established VUV-VUV pump-probe time-slice VMI photoion method is shown to be promising for state-to-state photodissociation studies of small molecules relevant to planetary atmospheres and for the fundamental understanding of photodissociation dynamics.
Advanced Potential Energy Surfaces for Condensed Phase Simulation
Authors: Demerdash Omar , Yap Eng-Hui , Head-Gordon Teresa
Published: December 2013

Computational modeling at the atomistic and mesoscopic levels has undergone dramatic development in the past 10 years to meet the challenge of adequately accounting for the many-body nature of intermolecular interactions. At the heart of this challenge is the ability to identify the strengths and specific limitations of pairwise-additive interactions, to improve classical models to explicitly account for many-body effects, and consequently to enhance their ability to describe a wider range of reference data and build confidence in their predictive capacity. However, the corresponding computational cost of these advanced classical models increases significantly enough that statistical convergence of condensed phase observables becomes more difficult to achieve. Here we review a hierarchy of potential energy surface models used in molecular simulations for systems with many degrees of freedom that best meet the trade-off between accuracy and computational speed in order to define a sweet spot for a given scientific problem of interest.
Imaging Fluorescence Fluctuation Spectroscopy: New Tools for Quantitative Bioimaging
Authors: Bag Nirmalya , Wohland Thorsten
Published: December 2013

Fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy (FFS) techniques provide information at the single-molecule level with excellent time resolution. Usually applied at a single spot in a sample, they have been recently extended into imaging formats, referred to as imaging FFS. They provide spatial information at the optical diffraction limit and temporal information in the microsecond to millisecond range. This review provides an overview of the different modalities in which imaging FFS techniques have been implemented and discusses present imaging FFS capabilities and limitations. A combination of imaging FFS and nanoscopy would allow one to record information with the detailed spatial information of nanoscopy, which is ∼20 nm and limited only by fluorophore size and labeling density, and the time resolution of imaging FFS, limited by the fluorescence lifetime. This combination would provide new insights into biological events by providing spatiotemporal resolution at unprecedented levels.
Ion Mobility Analysis of Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Wyttenbach Thomas , Pierson Nicholas A. , Clemmer David E. , Bowers Michael T.
Published: December 2013

The combination of mass spectrometry and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) employing a temperature-variable drift cell or a drift tube divided into sections to make IMS-IMS experiments possible allows information to be obtained about the molecular dynamics of polyatomic ions in the absence of a solvent. The experiments allow the investigation of structural changes of both activated and native ion populations on a timescale of 1–100 ms. Five different systems representing small and large, polar and nonpolar molecules, as well as noncovalent assemblies, are discussed in detail: a dinucleotide, a sodiated polyethylene glycol chain, the peptide bradykinin, the protein ubiquitin, and two types of peptide oligomers. Barriers to conformational interconversion can be obtained in favorable cases. In other cases, solution-like native structures can be observed, but care must be taken in the experimental protocols. The power of theoretical modeling is demonstrated.
The obligatory role of the actin cytoskeleton on inward remodeling induced by dithiothreitol activation of endogenous transglutaminase in isolated arterioles
Authors: Castorena-Gonzalez Jorge A. , Staiculescu Marius C. , Foote Christopher A. , Polo-Parada Luis , Martinez-Lemus Luis A.
Published: December 2013

Inward remodeling is the most prevalent structural change found in the resistance arteries and arterioles of hypertensive individuals. Separate studies have shown that the inward remodeling process requires transglutaminase activation and the polymerization of actin. Therefore, we hypothesize that inward remodeling induced via endogenous transglutaminase activation requires and depends on actin cytoskeletal structures. To test this hypothesis, isolated and cannulated rat cremaster arterioles were exposed to dithiothreitol (DTT) to activate endogenous transglutaminases. DTT induced concentration-dependent vasoconstriction that was suppressed by coincubation with cystamine or cytochalasin-D to inhibit tranglutaminase activity or actin polymerization, respectively. Prolonged (4 h) exposure to DTT caused arteriolar inward remodeling that was also blocked by the presence of cystamine or cytochalasin-D. DTT inwardly remodeled arterioles had reduced passive diameters, augmented wall thickness-to-lumen ratios and altered elastic characteristics that were reverted upon disruption of the actin cytoskeleton with mycalolide-B. In freshly isolated arterioles, exposure to mycalolide-B caused no changes in their passive diameters or their elastic characteristics. These results suggest that, in arterioles, the early stages of the inward remodeling process induced by prolonged endogenous transglutaminase activation require actin dynamics and depend on changes in actin cytoskeletal structures.
Overexpression of VEGF-C attenuates chronic high salt intake-induced left ventricular maladaptive remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Yang Guo-Hong , Zhou Xin , Ji Wen-Jie , Zeng Shan , Dong Yan , Tian Lu , Bi Ying , Guo Zhao-Zeng , Gao Fei , Chen Hong , Jiang Tie-Min , Li Yu-Ming
Published: December 2013

Recent studies have shown that the tonicity-responsive enhancer binding protein (TonEBP)/vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) signaling pathway-induced lymphangiogenesis provides a buffering mechanism for high salt (HS) intake-induced elevation of blood pressure (BP). Moreover, blocking of TonEBP/VEGF-C signaling by mononuclear phagocyte depletion can induce salt-sensitive hypertension in rats. We hypothesized that HS intake could have an impact on cardiac lymphangiogenesis, and regulation of VEGF-C bioactivity, which is largely through the main receptor for VEGFR-3, may modulate HS intake-induced left ventricular remodeling. We demonstrated upregulation of TonEBP, increased macrophage infiltration, and enhanced lymphangiogenesis in the left ventricles of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) that were fed a HS diet (8.0% NaCl). Then, retrovirus vectors capable of overexpression (ΔNΔC/VEGF-C/Cys152Ser, used for overexpressing VEGF-C) and blocking (VEGFR-3-Rg, used for trapping of bioactive VEGF-C) of VEGF-C and control vector (pLPCX) were intravenously administered to SHR from week 9 of a 12-wk HS loading period. At the end of the HS challenge, overexpression of VEGF-C led to enhanced cardiac lymphangiogenesis, decreased myocardial fibrosis, and macrophage infiltration, preserved left ventricular functions, as well as decreased blood pressure level compared with the HS group and the control vector-treated HS group. In contrast, systemic blocking of VEGF-C was associated with elevation of blood pressure level and an exacerbation of hypertensive left ventricular remodeling, as indicated by increased fibrosis and macrophage infiltration, and diminished lymphangiogenesis. Hence, our findings highlight that VEGF-C/VEGFR-3 is a promising therapeutic target to attenuate hypertensive left ventricular remodeling induced by HS intake, presumably via blood pressure-dependent and -independent mechanisms.
Endothelin-1 decreases endothelial PPARγ signaling and impairs angiogenesis after chronic intrauterine pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Wolf David , Tseng Nancy , Seedorf Gregory , Roe Gates , Abman Steven H. , Gien Jason
Published: December 2013

Increased endothelin-1 (ET-1) disrupts angiogenesis in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), but pathogenic mechanisms are unclear. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is decreased in adult pulmonary hypertension, but whether ET-1-PPARγ interactions impair endothelial cell function and angiogenesis in PPHN remains unknown. We hypothesized that increased PPHN pulmonary artery endothelial cell (PAEC) ET-1 production decreases PPARγ signaling and impairs tube formation in vitro. Proximal PAECs were harvested from fetal sheep after partial ligation of the ductus arteriosus in utero (PPHN) and controls. PPARγ and phospho-PPARγ protein were compared between normal and PPHN PAECs ± ET-1 and bosentan (ETA/ETBreceptor blocker). Tube formation was assessed in response to PPARγ agonists ± ET-1, N-nitro-l-arginine (LNA) (NOS inhibitor), and PPARγ siRNA. Endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), phospho-eNOS, and NO production were measured after exposure to PPARγ agonists and PPARγ siRNA. At baseline, PPHN PAECs demonstrate decreased tube formation and PPARγ protein expression and activity. PPARγ agonists restored PPHN tube formation to normal. ET-1 decreased normal and PPHN PAEC tube formation, which was rescued by PPARγ agonists. ET-1 decreased PPARγ protein and activity, which was prevented by bosentan. PPARγ agonists increased eNOS protein and activity and NO production in normal and PPHN PAECs. LNA inhibited the effect of PPARγ agonists on tube formation. PPARγ siRNA decreased eNOS protein and tube formation in normal PAECs. We conclude that ET-1 decreases PPARγ signaling and contributes to PAEC dysfunction and impaired angiogenesis in PPHN. We speculate that therapies aimed at decreasing ET-1 production will restore PPARγ signaling, preserve endothelial function, and improve angiogenesis in PPHN.
Alterations in Red Blood Cells and Plasma Properties after Acute Single Bout of Exercise
Authors: Gwozdzinski Krzysztof , Pieniazek Anna , Brzeszczynska Joanna , Tabaczar Sabina , Jegier Anna
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate alterations in haemoglobin conformation and parameters related to oxidative stress in whole erythrocytes, membranes, and plasma after a single bout of exercise in a group of young untrained men.
Venous blood samples from eleven healthy young untrained males (age = 22 ± 2 years, BMI = 23 ± 2.5 kg/m2) were taken from the antecubital vein before an incremental cycling exercise test, immediately after exercise, and 1 hour after exercise. Individual heart rate response to this exercise was 195 ± 12 beats/min and the maximum wattage was 292 ± 27 W. Immediately after exercise, significant increase in standard parameters (haemoglobin, haematocrit, lactate levels, and plasma volume) of blood was observed as well as plasma antioxidant capacity one hour after exercise. Reversible conformational changes in haemoglobin, measured using a maleimide spin label, were found immediately following exercise. The concentration of ascorbic acid inside erythrocytes significantly decreased after exercise. A significant decline in membrane thiols was observed one hour after exercise, but simultaneously an increase in plasma thiols immediately after and 1 h after exercise was also observed. This study shows that a single bout of exercise can lead to mobilization of defensive antioxidant systems in blood against oxidative stress in young untrained men.
Forest Fragments Surrounded by Sugar Cane Are More Inhospitable to Terrestrial Amphibian Abundance Than Fragments Surrounded by Pasture
Authors: D’Anunciação Paula Eveline Ribeiro , Silva Marcela Fernandes Vilela , Ferrante Lucas , Assis Diego Santana , Casagrande Thamires , Coelho Andréa Zalmora Garcia , Amâncio Bárbara Christina Silva , Pereira Túlio Ribeiral , da Silva Vinícius Xavier
Published: December 2013

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in matrix-type influence on forest fragments. Terrestrial amphibians are good bioindicators for this kind of research because of low vagility and high philopatry. This study compared richness, abundance, and species composition of terrestrial amphibians through pitfall traps in two sets of semideciduous seasonal forest fragments in southeastern Brazil, according to the predominant surrounding matrix (sugar cane and pasture). There were no differences in richness, but fragments surrounded by sugar cane had the lowest abundance of amphibians, whereas fragments surrounded by pastures had greater abundance. The most abundant species,Rhinella ornata, showed no biometric differences between fragment groups but like many other amphibians sampled showed very low numbers of individuals in fragments dominated by sugar cane fields. Our data indicate that the sugar cane matrix negatively influences the community of amphibians present in fragments surrounded by this type of land use.
Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Gene Polymorphism (T29C) in Egyptian Patients with Hepatitis B Virus Infection: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Talaat Roba M. , Dondeti Mahmoud F. , El-Shenawy Soha Z. , Khamiss Omaima A.
Published: December 2013

The interindividual variations in the capacity of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) production have been ascribed to genetic polymorphisms in TGF-β1 gene. As pathogenesis of HBV has a genetic background, this preliminary study was designed to assess the impact of TGF-β1 (T29C) on the susceptibility of Egyptians to HBV infection. Genotyping was performed using single stranded polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction (SSP-PCR) in 65 Egyptian hepatitis B patients and 50 healthy controls. TGF-β1 plasma levels were measured using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The frequency of CC genotype was significantly higher (P<0.05) in HBV patients compared to controls. On the contrary, TC genotype did not show significant difference in both groups. TT genotype was significantly higher (P<0.01) in controls than HBV patients. Our current preliminary data revealed that the frequency of the genotypes in the controls were within Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) while the patients group was out of HWE (P<0.01). TGF-β1 was significantly (r=-0.684;P<0.001) deceased in the sera of patients as compared to normal subjects. Depending on our preliminary work, CC genotype may act as a host genetic factor in the susceptibility to HBV infection in Egyptians. Taken together, the current data pointed to the importance of polymorphism of TGF-β1 gene (T29C) in HBV infection.
Comparative Effects of Biodynes, Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction, and Tocopherol in Enhancing Collagen Synthesis and Inhibiting Collagen Degradation in Stress-Induced Premature Senescence Model of Human Diploid Fibroblasts
Authors: Makpol Suzana , Jam Faidruz Azura , Khor Shy Cian , Ismail Zahariah , Mohd Yusof Yasmin Anum , Wan Ngah Wan Zurinah
Published: December 2013

Biodynes, tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF), and tocopherol have shown antiaging properties. However, the combined effects of these compounds on skin aging are yet to be investigated. This study aimed to elucidate the skin aging effects of biodynes, TRF, and tocopherol on stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS) model of human diploid fibroblasts (HDFs) by determining the expression of collagen and MMPs at gene and protein levels. Primary HDFs were treated with biodynes, TRF, and tocopherol prior to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) exposure. The expression ofCOL1A1, COL3A1, MMP1, MMP2, MMP3,andMMP9genes was determined by qRT-PCR. Type I and type III procollagen proteins were measured by Western blotting while the activities of MMPs were quantified by fluorometric Sensolyte MMP Kit. Our results showed that biodynes, TRF, and tocopherol upregulated collagen genes and downregulatedMMPgenes (P<0.05). Type I procollagen and type III procollagen protein levels were significantly increased in response to biodynes, TRF, and tocopherol treatment (P<0.05) with reduction in MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-9 activities (P<0.05). These findings indicated that biodynes, TRF, and tocopherol effectively enhanced collagen synthesis and inhibited collagen degradation and therefore may protect the skin from aging.
Coordinating a Supply Chain with Price and Advertisement Dependent Stochastic Demand
Authors: Li Liying , Wang Yong , Yan Xiaoming
Published: December 2013

This paper investigates pricing and ordering as well as advertising coordination issues in a single‐manufacturer single‐retailer supply chain, where the manufacturer sells a newsvendor‐type product through the retailer who faces a stochastic demand depending on both retail price and advertising expenditure. Under the assumption that the market demand has a multiplicative functional form, the Stackelberg and cooperative game models are developed, and the closed form solution to each model is provided as well. Comparisons and insights are presented. We show that a properly designed revenue‐cost‐sharing contract can achieve supply chain coordination and lead to a Pareto improving win‐win situation for channel members. We also discuss the allocation of the extra joint profit according to individual supply chain members’ risk preferences and negotiating powers.
Design of System for Monitoring Seepage of Levee Engineering Based on Distributed Optical Fiber Sensing Technology
Authors: Su Huaizhi , Kang Yeyuan
Published: December 2013

Seepage is the major factor and monitoring index of levee safety. Leakage may be undetected by conventional monitoring methods and techniques, but optical fiber distributed temperature sensor (DTS) temperature measuring system can achieve real-time temperature monitoring in internal soil of levees. According to the temperature field obtained by DTS system, monitoring and inversion methods of seepage velocity based on double-line heat source and single-line heat source are introduced, respectively. An experiment is designed and composed of DTS temperature measuring system, the heating system, the water supply system, and the computer-aided analysis system to test and verify the effectiveness and feasibility of the monitoring method. On this basis, the system of monitoring seepage based on distributed optical fibers is put forward and designed. Optical fiber intelligent monitoring system will improve the current situation of safety monitoring of levee engineering on the basis of its unique superiority.
Postannealing Effect at Various Gas Ambients on Ohmic Contacts of Pt/ZnO Nanobilayers toward Ultraviolet Photodetectors
Authors: Chao Chung-Hua , Chen Mao-Yi , Lin Chii-Ruey , Yu Yueh-Chung , Yao Yeong-Der , Wei Da-Hua
Published: December 2013

This paper describes a fabrication and characterization of ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors based on Ohmic contacts using Pt electrode onto the epitaxial ZnO (0002) thin film. Plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) system was employed to deposit ZnO (0002) thin films onto silicon substrates, and radio-frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering was used to deposit Pt top electrode onto the ZnO thin films. The as-deposited Pt/ZnO nanobilayer samples were then annealed at450∘Cin two different ambients (argon and nitrogen) to obtain optimal Ohmic contacts. The crystal structure, surface morphology, optical properties, and wettability of ZnO thin films were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), photoluminescence (PL), UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometer, and contact angle meter, respectively. Moreover, the photoconductivity of the Pt/ZnO nanobilayers was also investigated for UV photodetector application. The above results showed that the optimum ZnO sample was synthesized with gas flow rate ratio of 1 : 3 diethylzinc [DEZn, Zn(C2H5)2] to carbon dioxide (CO2) and then combined with Pt electrode annealed at450∘Cin argon ambient, exhibiting good crystallinity as well as UV photo responsibility.
The Effect of Q-Switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm/532 nm Laser in the Treatment of Onychomycosis In Vivo
Authors: Kalokasidis Kostas , Onder Meltem , Trakatelli Myrto-Georgia , Richert Bertrand , Fritz Klaus
Published: December 2013

In this prospective clinical study, the Q-Switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm/532 nm laser (Light Age, Inc., Somerset, NJ, USA) was used on 131 onychomycosis subjects (94 females, 37 males; ages 18 to 68 years). Mycotic cultures were taken and fungus types were detected. The laser protocol included two sessions with a one-month interval. Treatment duration was approximately 15 minutes per session and patients were observed over a 3-month time period. Laser fluencies of 14 J/cm2were applied at 9 billionths of a second pulse duration and at 5 Hz frequency. Follow-up was performed at 3 months with mycological cultures. Before and after digital photographs were taken. Adverse effects were recorded and all participants completed “self-evaluation questionnaires” rating their level of satisfaction. All subjects were well satisfied with the treatments, there were no noticeable side effects, and no significant differences were found treating men versus women. At the 3-month follow-up 95.42% of the patients were laboratory mycologically cured of fungal infection. This clinical study demonstrates that fungal nail infections can be effectively and safely treated with Q-Switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm/532 nm laser. It can also be combined with systemic oral antifungals providing more limited treatment time.
Reconfiguration and Search of Social Networks
Authors: Zhang Lianming , Peng Aoyuan , Yu Jianping
Published: December 2013

Social networks tend to exhibit some topological characteristics different from regular networks and random networks, such as shorter average path length and higher clustering coefficient, and the node degree of the majority of social networks obeys exponential distribution. Based on the topological characteristics of the real social networks, a new network model which suits to portray the structure of social networks was proposed, and the characteristic parameters of the model were calculated. To find out the relationship between two people in the social network, and using the local information of the social network and the parallel mechanism, a hybrid search strategy based on k‐walker random and a high degree was proposed. Simulation results show that the strategy can significantly reduce the average number of search steps, so as to effectively improve the search speed and efficiency.