bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative performance of two unsaturated soil models using different constitutive variables
Authors: Lloret-Cabot Martí , Wheeler Simon J. , Pineda Jubert A. , Sheng Daichao , Gens Antonio
Published: July 2014

Mechanical and water retention behaviour of unsaturated soils is investigated in the context of two well established coupled constitutive models, each of which is formulated in terms of a different set of stress state variables or constitutive variables. Incremental relationships describing the volume change and variation of the degree of saturation are derived for each model. These incremental relationships are used to simulate a set of experimental tests on compacted Speswhite kaolin previously reported in the literature. Six individual tests, involving isotropic compression and various forms of shearing, are analyzed in the context of the incremental forms developed, and the model predictions are then compared against experimental results. The results show that, although each constitutive model uses a different set of constitutive variables and a different scheme for coupling mechanical and water retention behaviour, the two sets of model predictions are similar and both sets provide a reasonable match to the experimental results, suggesting that both models are able to capture the relevant features of unsaturated soil behaviour, despite expressing the constitutive laws in different ways.
Compressibility of deep clay in East China subjected to a wide range of consolidation stresses
Authors: Shang X.-Y. , Zhou G.-Q. , Kuang L.-F. , Cai W.
Published: July 2014

The oedometer tests of remoulded deep clay in East China subjected to consolidation stresses ranging from 0.2 to 15.0 MPa were carried out. Both the measured compression curves and the curves of logarithmic permeability versus void ratio consist of two linear segments, among which the bilinear shape of the compression curves is less noticeable. The consolidation stress and void ratio at the intersection of two lines are around 2 MPa and 0.565 ± 0.015, respectively, and the corresponding saturated water content is very close to the reported saturated adsorbed water content. Lastly, but most importantly, the calculated microscopic pore size corresponding to the intersection point agrees well with the transitional range of the distance between two clay surfaces within which water molecules transform from bulk-liquid-like water into confined water. This is confirmed by experimental results available in the literature.
On a class of evolution algebras of "chicken" population
Authors: Dzhumadil'daev A. , Omirov B. A. , Rozikov U. A.
Published: July 2014

This paper is devoted to the description of structure of evolution algebras of "chicken" population (EACP). Such an algebra is determined by a rectangular matrix of structural constants. Using the Jordan form of the matrix of structural constants we obtain a simple description of complex EACP. We give the classification of three-dimensional complex EACP. Moreover, some (n + 1)-dimensional EACP are described.
Restudy of surface tension of QGP with one-loop correction in the mean-field potential
Authors: Singh S. Somorendro , Gupta K. K. , Jha A. K.
Published: July 2014

Surface tension of quark–gluon plasma (QGP) evolution with one-loop correction in the mean-field potential is studied. First, with the correction, the stable QGP droplet size decreases. Then, the value of surface tension is found to be improved and it approaches to the lattice value of surface tension [Formula: see text]. Moreover, the ratio of the surface tension to the cube of the critical temperature is found to increase the value in comparison to earlier studies without correction factor [R. Ramanathan, K. K. Gupta, A. K. Jha and S. S. Singh, Pram. J. Phys. 68, 757 (2007)].
Tropical Fourier–Motzkin elimination, with an application to real-time verification
Authors: Allamigeon Xavier , Fahrenberg Uli , Gaubert Stéphane , Katz Ricardo D. , Legay Axel
Published: July 2014

We introduce a generalization of tropical polyhedra able to express both strict and non-strict inequalities. Such inequalities are handled by means of a semiring of germs (encoding infinitesimal perturbations). We develop a tropical analogue of Fourier–Motzkin elimination from which we derive geometrical properties of these polyhedra. In particular, we show that they coincide with the tropically convex union of (non-necessarily closed) cells that are convex both classically and tropically. We also prove that the redundant inequalities produced when performing successive elimination steps can be dynamically deleted by reduction to mean payoff game problems. As a complement, we provide a coarser (polynomial time) deletion procedure which is enough to arrive at a simply exponential bound for the total execution time. These algorithms are illustrated by an application to real-time systems (reachability analysis of timed automata).
STAR-SHAPED SET INVERSION FRACTALS
Authors: GDAWIEC KRZYSZTOF
Published: July 2014

In the paper, we generalized the idea of circle inversion to star-shaped sets and used the generalized inversion to replace the circle inversion transformation in the algorithm for the generation of the circle inversion fractals. In this way, we obtained the star-shaped set inversion fractals. The examples that we have presented show that we were able to obtain very diverse fractal patterns by using the proposed extension and that these patterns are different from those obtained with the circle inversion method. Moreover, because circles are star-shaped sets, the proposed generalization allows us to deform the circle inversion fractals in a very easy and intuitive way.
OPTIMAL RANDOM BACKUP POLICIES FOR A DATABASE SYSTEM
Authors: CHEN MINGCHIH , WANG MIN , CHENG CHUN-YUAN
Published: July 2014

Some systems work for a job with random working and processing times, and are checked at periodic and random times. When a failure occurs, we execute the backup operation to the latest checking time. First, the expected costs with periodic and random backups are formulated, and comparisons between periodic and random policies are made. Next, we focus on the backup policies when the system is checked at the Nth interval of working times, two total expected costs are obtained and optimal numbers N* which minimize them are derived analytically. Finally, one modified backup model in which failures are detected only at checking times is proposed and two expected costs are obtained.
OPTIMIZATION ANALYSIS BASED ON STOCHASTIC DIFFERENTIAL EQUATION MODEL FOR CLOUD COMPUTING
Authors: TAMURA YOSHINOBU , YAMADA SHIGERU
Published: July 2014

At present, a cloud computing is attracting attention as a network service to share the computing resources, i.e., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services. We focus on a cloud computing environment by using open source software such as OpenStack and Eucalyptus because of the unification management of data and low cost. In this paper, we propose a new approach to software dependability assessment based on stochastic differential equation modeling in order to consider the interesting aspect of the numbers of components, cloud applications, and users. Also, we analyze actual data to show numerical examples of software dependability assessment considering such characteristics of cloud computing. Moreover, we discuss the determination of optimum software maintenance times minimizing the total expected software cost.
A COMPARISON STUDY OF REPLACEMENT POLICIES FOR A CUMULATIVE DAMAGE MODEL
Authors: ENDHARTA ALFONSUS JULANTO , YUN WON YOUNG
Published: July 2014

A comparison study in basic preventive replacement (PR) policies based on a cumulative damage model is done. Three well-known PR policies (time-based, shock number-based, cumulative damage-based policies) are considered and the expected cost rate is used as the objective function to determine the optimal policy. Each policy requires certain information in the cumulative damage model. We evaluate the expected values of information by numerical examples and investigate the effect of model parameters and cost terms on the optimal expected cost rate. A damage-based replacement policy with periodic inspection is also proposed and compared with the three PR policies by numerical examples.
A note on the integral trace form in cyclotomic fields
Authors: Carmelo Interlando J. , Pires da Nóbrega Neto Trajano , Rodrigues Tatiana Miguel , Lopes José Othon Dantas
Published: July 2014

Let m ≥ 3 be an integer, ζm ∈ ℂ a primitive mth root of unity, and Km the cyclotomic field ℚ(ζm). An explicit description of the integral trace form [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is the complex conjugate of x is presented. In the case where m is prime, a procedure for finding the minimum of the form subject to x being a nonzero element of a certain ℤ-module in ℤ[ζm] is presented.
On feckly clean rings
Authors: Chen Huanyin , Kose H. , Kurtulmaz Y.
Published: July 2014

A ring R is feckly clean provided that for any a ∈ R there exists an element e ∈ R and a full element u ∈ R such that a = e + u, eR(1 - e) ⊆ J(R). We prove that a ring R is feckly clean if and only if for any a ∈ R, there exists an element e ∈ R such that V(a) ⊆ V(e), V(1 - a) ⊆ V(1 - e) and eR(1 - e) ⊆ J(R), if and only if for any distinct maximal ideals M and N, there exists an element e ∈ R such that e ∈ M, 1 - e ∈ N and eR(1 - e) ⊆ J(R), if and only if J- spec (R) is strongly zero-dimensional, if and only if Max (R) is strongly zero-dimensional and every prime ideal containing J(R) is contained in a unique maximal ideal. More explicit characterizations are also discussed for commutative feckly clean rings.
Special bracket versus Jacobi bracket on the classical phase space of general relativistic test particle
Authors: Janyška Josef
Published: July 2014

The classical phase space of general relativistic classical test particle (here called, for short, "phase space") is defined as the first jet space of motions regarded as timelike one-dimensional submanifolds of spacetime. By the projectability assumption, we define the subsheaf of special phase functions with a special Lie bracket and we compare the Lie algebra of special phase functions with the structures obtained on the phase space by the standard Hamiltonian approach.
Correlated Oxide Physics and Electronics
Authors: Ngai J.H. , Walker F.J. , Ahn C.H.
Published: July 2014

Transition metal oxides exhibit a range of correlated phenomena with applications to novel electronic devices that possess remarkable functionalities. This article reviews recent progress in elucidating both mechanisms that govern correlated behavior in transition metal oxides and advancements in device fabrication that have enabled strong correlations to be controlled through applied electric fields. Advancements in the growth of transition-metal-oxide films and artificial heterostructures have enabled superconductivity, magnetism, and metal-insulator transitions to be controlled in cuprates, manganites, and vanadates by using the electric field effect. In addition, interfaces between transition metal oxides have recently emerged as a setting in which strong correlations can be manipulated in two dimensions to realize unusual quantum-ordered phases. Finally, key relationships between structure and transport in ultrathin films of transition metal oxides have been elucidated. Coupling the structural degrees of freedom in oxides to applied electric fields thus opens new pathways to control correlated behavior in devices.
Electrostatic Gating of Ultrathin Films
Authors: Goldman A.M.
Published: July 2014

Electrostatic gating of ultrathin films can be used to modify electronic and magnetic properties of materials by effecting controlled alterations of carrier concentration while, in principle, not changing the level of disorder. As such, electrostatic gating can facilitate the development of novel devices and can serve as a means of exploring the fundamental properties of materials in a manner far simpler than is possible with the conventional approach of chemical doping. The entire phase diagram of a compound can be traversed by changing the gate voltage. In this review, we survey results involving conventional field effect devices as well as more recent progress, which has involved structures that rely on electrochemical configurations such as electric double-layer transistors. We emphasize progress involving thin films of oxide materials such as high-temperature superconductors, magnetic oxides, and oxides that undergo metal-insulator transitions.
Lipid storage by adipose tissue macrophages regulates systemic glucose tolerance
Authors: Aouadi Myriam , Vangala Pranitha , Yawe Joseph C. , Tencerova Michaela , Nicoloro Sarah M. , Cohen Jessica L. , Shen Yuefei , Czech Michael P.
Published: July 2014

Proinflammatory pathways in adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) can impair glucose tolerance in obesity, but ATMs may also be beneficial as repositories for excess lipid that adipocytes are unable to store. To test this hypothesis, we selectively targeted visceral ATMs in obese mice with siRNA against lipoprotein lipase (LPL), leaving macrophages within other organs unaffected. Selective silencing of ATM LPL decreased foam cell formation in visceral adipose tissue of obese mice, consistent with a reduced supply of fatty acids from VLDL hydrolysis. Unexpectedly, silencing LPL also decreased the expression of genes involved in fatty acid uptake (CD36) and esterification in ATMs. This deficit in fatty acid uptake capacity was associated with increased circulating serum free fatty acids. Importantly, ATM LPL silencing also caused a marked increase in circulating fatty acid-binding protein-4, an adipocyte-derived lipid chaperone previously reported to induce liver insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. Consistent with this concept, obese mice with LPL-depleted ATMs exhibited higher hepatic glucose production from pyruvate and glucose intolerance. Silencing CD36 in ATMs also promoted glucose intolerance. Taken together, the data indicate that LPL secreted by ATMs enhances their ability to sequester excess lipid in obese mice, promoting systemic glucose tolerance.
Evaluation of the Endothelial Cell Density and the Central Corneal Thickness in Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome and Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma
Authors: Tomaszewski Bożydar T. , Zalewska Renata , Mariak Zofia
Published: July 2014

Purpose.Evaluation of central corneal thickness (CCT) and endothelial cell density (ECD) in patients with senile cataract and coexisting pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome with glaucoma (PEXG) and without glaucoma using specular microscopy.Participants and Methods.The study included 122 patients (217 eyes). In this group of patients we identified 133 eyes with PEX syndrome (65 with glaucoma, 68 without glaucoma) and 84 eyes without PEX syndrome. ECD and CCT were measured in each eye by specular microscopy.Results.ECD in eyes with PEX syndrome without glaucoma (2297 ± 359 cell/mm2) and in eyes with PEXG (2241 ± 363 cell/mm2) was lower than in the control group (2503 ± 262 cell/mm2) (P<0.001). CCT in eyes with PEXG (508.2 ± 32.6 μm) was thinner than in eyes with PEX syndrome without glaucoma (529.7 ± 30.3 μm) and control group (527.7 ± 29.4 μm) (P<0.001).Conclusions.This research shows that in eyes with PEX syndrome, both with and without glaucoma, ECD was statistically significantly lower than in the control group. In patients with PEXG, CCT was statistically significantly thinner than in the PEX syndrome and control group.
Involvement of NF-κB/IL-6 Pathway in the Processing of Colorectal Carcinogenesis in Colitis Mice
Authors: Yang Hang , Qi Haili , Ren Jingli , Cui Jing , Li Zhenfeng , Waldum Helge L. , Cui Guanglin
Published: June 2014

Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB)/interleukin (IL-6) pathway links chronic inflammation to colitis associated cancer (CAC). In this study, we examined the dynamic temporal changes of the NF-κB/IL-6 pathway during the procession of experimental CAC mouse model. Mice were sacrificed after induction for 14, 16, 18, and 22 weeks for the examination of tumor burden, inflammation degree, and protein level of NF-κB and IL-6 in bowel tissues. The results showed that tumor burden and inflammation severity in the bowels were gradually increased over the observed time-points. The expressions of IL-6 and NF-κB proteins were gradually increased after induction of dysplastic lesions over times. These data provide new information on the dynamic temporal changes of NF-κB/IL-6 pathway in relation to CAC development that may be relevant in the design of future investigations of therapeutic interventions to effectively target CAC processes.
Multicarrier Spread Spectrum Communication Scheme for Cruising Sensor Network in Confined Underwater Space
Authors: Wang Yuan , Zeng Zhoumo , Li Yibo , Zhang Jinsheng , Jin Shijiu
Published: July 2014

A cruising sensor network works as an online monitoring system for industrial liquid environments such as oil tanks and nuclear storage ponds. The cruising sensor network consists of a few submerged nodes which can actuate themselves to execute tasks like “cruising.” This paper presents a multicarrier spread spectrum scheme, which is designed for communications between the nodes and the control station. Although underwater acoustic communication has been widely researched due to the growing demands from ocean development and marine research, communication in confined underwater space is an unexplored domain as most research focuses on communication in spacious water areas. The occasions that the cruising sensor network works in are confined. The main distinction in confined underwater spaces is the existence of strong multipath arrivals reflected by the boundaries, which can cause more severe intersymbol interference (ISI). We propose a communication scheme which applies spread spectrum in orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) to address severe frequency selective fading channels. This scheme can be robust in confined underwater channels when coupled with turbo code. The simulation and experimental results prove the feasibility and reliability of this scheme. It is demonstrated that significantly better performance is achieved than that of the conventional OFDM method.
Exact Solutions of the Dirac Hamiltonian on the Sphere under Hyperbolic Magnetic Fields
Authors: Yeşiltaş Özlem
Published: July 2014

Two-dimensional massless Dirac Hamiltonian under the influence of hyperbolic magnetic fields is mentioned in curved space. Using a spherical surface parameterization, the Dirac operator on the sphere is presented and the system is given as two supersymmetric partner Hamiltonians which coincides with the position dependent mass Hamiltonians. We introduce two ansatzes for the component of the vector potential to acquire effective solvable models, which are Rosen-Morse II potential and the model given Midya and Roy, whose bound states are JacobiX1type polynomials, and we adapt our work to these special models under some parameter restrictions. The energy spectrum and the eigenvectors are found for Rosen-Morse II potential. On the other hand, complete solutions are given for the second system. The vector and the effective potentials with their eigenvalues are sketched for each system.
Development of a Sensor Network-Based SMPS System: A Smart LED Monitoring Application Based on Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Kim Yoon Sang , Ko Junho
Published: June 2014

As the specifications of personal, industrial, and medical devices become increasingly sophisticated, the demand for high power devices is also growing rapidly. Because high power supply devices are needed in order to operate high power devices with high specifications, stability and reliability are important factors to consider when it comes to high power supply devices. Therefore, there have been calls for further research on high quality power supply and monitoring system for high power supply. This paper proposes a sensor network-based smart SMPS (switch mode power supply) system. The proposed system makes power supply stable and efficient by providing output current control and sensor network-based monitoring. The functions of the proposed system were verified through both LED control simulation and monitoring simulation. The feasibility of the proposed system was also examined through various experiments and the results were discussed.
A Survey of Research Progress and Development Tendency of Attribute-Based Encryption
Authors: Pang Liaojun , Yang Jie , Jiang Zhengtao
Published: July 2014

With the development of cryptography, the attribute-based encryption (ABE) draws widespread attention of the researchers in recent years. The ABE scheme, which belongs to the public key encryption mechanism, takes attributes as public key and associates them with the ciphertext or the user’s secret key. It is an efficient way to solve open problems in access control scenarios, for example, how to provide data confidentiality and expressive access control at the same time. In this paper, we survey the basic ABE scheme and its two variants: the key-policy ABE (KP-ABE) scheme and the ciphertext-policy ABE (CP-ABE) scheme. We also pay attention to other researches relating to the ABE schemes, including multiauthority, user/attribute revocation, accountability, and proxy reencryption, with an extensive comparison of their functionality and performance. Finally, possible future works and some conclusions are pointed out.
The Ocular Surface Chemical Burns
Authors: Eslani Medi , Baradaran-Rafii Alireza , Movahedan Asadolah , Djalilian Ali R.
Published: July 2014

Ocular chemical burns are common and serious ocular emergencies that require immediate and intensive evaluation and care. The victims of such incidents are usually young, and therefore loss of vision and disfigurement could dramatically affect their lives. The clinical course can be divided into immediate, acute, early, and late reparative phases. The degree of limbal, corneal, and conjunctival involvement at the time of injury is critically associated with prognosis. The treatment starts with simple but vision saving steps and is continued with complicated surgical procedures later in the course of the disease. The goal of treatment is to restore the normal ocular surface anatomy and function. Limbal stem cell transplantation, amniotic membrane transplantation, and ultimately keratoprosthesis may be indicated depending on the patients’ needs.
Amelioration of Colitis in Mouse Model by Exploring Antioxidative Potentials of an Indigenous Probiotic Strain ofLactobacillus fermentumLf1
Authors: Chauhan Ritu , Sudhakaran Vasanthakumari Aparna , Panwar Harsh , Mallapa Rashmi H. , Duary Raj Kumar , Batish Virender Kumar , Grover Sunita
Published: July 2014

Based on the preliminary screening of eight indigenous putative probioticLactobacilli,Lactobacillus fermentumLf1 was selected for assessing its antioxidative efficacy in DSS colitis mouse model based on its ability to enhance the expression of “Nrf2” by 6.43-fold and malondialdehyde (MDA) inhibition by 78.1  ±  0.24% in HT-29 cells under H2O2stress. The Disease Activity Index and histological scores of Lf1-treated mice were lower than the control group. However, expression of “Nrf2” was not observed in Lf1-treated mice. A significant increase in the expression of antioxidative enzymes such asSOD2 andTrxR-1 was recorded in both of the groups. The expression ofSOD2 was significantly downregulated in colitis-induced mice by −100.00-fold relative to control group, and the downregulation was considerably reduced to −37.04-fold in colitis Lf1 treatment group. Almost, a similar trend was recorded in case of “thioredoxin” expression, though “CAT” was refractile to expression. The Lf1-treated group had decreased malondialdehyde level as compared to colitis control (37.92  ±  6.31 versus 91.13  ±  5.76 μM/g). These results point towards Lf1-induced activation of the antioxidant enzyme system in the mouse model and its prospects to be explored as a new strategy for IBD management.
Repairing the Osteochondral Defect in Goat with the Tissue-Engineered Osteochondral Graft Preconstructed in a Double-Chamber Stirring Bioreactor
Authors: Pei Yang , Fan Jun-jun , Zhang Xiao-qiang , Zhang Zhi-yong , Yu Min
Published: July 2014

To investigate the reparative efficacy of tissue-engineered osteochondral (TEO) graft for repairing the osteochondral defect in goat, we designed a double-chamber stirring bioreactor to construct the bone and cartilage composites simultaneously in oneβ-TCP scaffold and observed the reparative effect in vivo. The osteochondral defects were created in goats and all the animals were divided into 3 groups randomly. In groups A, the defect was treated with the TEO which was cultured with mechanical stimulation of stir; in group B, the defect was treated with TEO which was cultured without mechanical stimulation of stir; in groups C, the defect was treated without TEO. At 12 weeks and 24 weeks after operation, the reparative effects in different groups were assessed and compared. The results indicated that the reparative effect of the TEO cultured in the bioreactor was better than the control group, and mechanical stimulation of stir could further improve the reparative effect. We provided a feasible and effective method to construct the TEO for treatment of osteochondral defect using autologous BMSCs and the double-chamber bioreactor.
Eventually Periodic Solutions of a Max-Type Difference Equation
Authors: Sun Taixiang , Liu Jing , He Qiuli , Liu Xin-He , Tao Chunyan
Published: July 2014

We study the following max-type difference equationxn=max⁡{An/xn-r,xn-k},n=1,2,…, where{An}n=1+∞is a periodic sequence with periodpandk,r∈{1,2,…}withgcd(k,r)=1andk≠r, and the initial conditionsx1-d,x2-d,…,x0are real numbers withd=max⁡{r,k}. We show that ifp=1(orp≥2andkis odd), then every well-defined solution of this equation is eventually periodic with periodk, which generalizes the results of (Elsayed and Stevic´(2009), Iričanin and Elsayed (2010), Qin et al. (2012), and Xiao and Shi (2013)) to the general case. Besides, we construct an example withp≥2andkbeing even which has a well-defined solution that is not eventually periodic.
An Overview of the Role of Innate Lymphoid Cells in Gut Infections and Inflammation
Authors: Sedda Silvia , Marafini Irene , Figliuzzi Michele M. , Pallone Francesco , Monteleone Giovanni
Published: July 2014

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a group of hematopoietic cells devoid of antigen receptors that have important functions in lymphoid organogenesis, in the defense against extracellular pathogens, and in the maintenance of the epithelial barrier. Three distinct groups of ILCs have been identified on the basis of phenotypic and functional criteria and termed ILCs1, ILCs2, and ILCs3. Specifically, ILCs1 express the transcription factor T-bet and secrete T helper type-1- (Th1-) related cytokines, ILCs2 are dependent on the transcription factor RORαand express Gata-3 and the chemokine receptor homologous molecule (CRTH2) and produce Th2-related cytokines, and ILCs3 express the transcription factor RORγt and synthesize interleukin- (IL-) 17, IL-22, and, under specific stimuli, interferon-γ. ILCs represent a relatively small population in the gut, but accumulating evidence suggests that these cells could play a decisive role in orchestrating both protective and detrimental immune responses. In this review, we will summarize the present knowledge on the distribution of ILCs in the intestinal mucosa, with particular focus on their role in the control of both infections and effector cytokine response in immune-mediated pathologies.
Electrophoretic Deposition of Carbon Nanotubes over TiO2Nanotubes: Evaluation of Surface Properties and Biocompatibility
Authors: Park Jung Eun , Park Il Song , Bae Tae Sung , Lee Min Ho
Published: July 2014

Titanium (Ti) is often used as an orthopedic and dental implant material due to its better mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and excellent biocompatibility. Formation of TiO2nanotubes (TiO2NTs) on titanium is an interesting surface modification to achieve controlled drug delivery and to promote cell growth. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) possess excellent chemical durability and mechanical strength. The use of CNTs in biomedical applications such as scaffolds has received considerable attention in recent years. The present study aims to modify the surface of titanium by anodizing to form TiO2NTs and subsequently deposit CNTs over it by electrophoretic deposition (EPD). Characteristic, biocompatibility, and apatite forming ability of the surface modified samples were evaluated. The results of the study reveal that CNTs coating on TiO2nanotubes help improve the biological activity and this type of surface modification is highly suitable for biomedical applications.
Integrating Contemplative Tools into Biomedical Science Education and Research Training Programs
Authors: Dietert Rodney R.
Published: July 2014

Academic preparation of science researchers and/or human or veterinary medicine clinicians through the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curriculum has usually focused on the students (1) acquiring increased disciplinary expertise, (2) learning needed methodologies and protocols, and (3) expanding their capacity for intense, persistent focus. Such educational training is effective until roadblocks or problems arise via this highly-learned approach. Then, the health science trainee may have few tools available for effective problem solving. Training to achieve flexibility, adaptability, and broadened perspectives using contemplative practices has been rare among biomedical education programs. To address this gap, a Cornell University-based program involving formal biomedical science coursework, and health science workshops has been developed to offer science students, researchers and health professionals a broader array of personal, contemplation-based, problem-solving tools. This STEM educational initiative includes first-person exercises designed to broaden perceptional awareness, decrease emotional drama, and mobilize whole-body strategies for creative problem solving. Self-calibration and journaling are used for students to evaluate the personal utility of each exercise. The educational goals are to increase student self-awareness and self-regulation and to provide trainees with value-added tools for career-long problem solving. Basic elements of this educational initiative are discussed using the framework of the Tree of Contemplative Practices.
Relationship between HgbA1c and Myocardial Blood Flow Reserve in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Noninvasive Assessment Using Real-Time Myocardial Perfusion Echocardiography
Authors: Huang Runqing , Abdelmoneim Sahar S. , Nhola Lara F. , Mulvagh Sharon L.
Published: July 2014

To study the relationship between glycosylated hemoglobin (HgbA1c) and myocardial perfusion in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients, we prospectively enrolled 24 patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) who underwent adenosine stress by real-time myocardial perfusion echocardiography (RTMPE). HgbA1c was measured at time of RTMPE. Microbubble velocity (β min−1), myocardial blood flow (MBF, mL/min/g), and myocardial blood flow reserve (MBFR) were quantified. Quantitative MCE analysis was feasible in all patients (272/384 segments, 71%). Those with HgbA1c > 7.1% had significantly lowerβreserveand MBFR than those with HgbA1c ≤ 7.1%(P<0.05). In patients with suspected CAD, there was a significant inverse correlation between MBFR and HgbA1c (r=-0.279,P=0.01); however, in those with known CAD, this relationship was not significant (r=-0.117,P=0.129). Using a MBFR cutoff value > 2 as normal, HgbA1c > 7.1% significantly increased the risk for abnormal MBFR, (adjusted odds ratio: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.12–3.35,P=0.02). Optimal glycemic control is associated with preservation of MBFR as determined by RTMPE, in T2DM patients at risk for CAD.
On the Use of Passive Reflecting Surfaces and Compressive Sensing Techniques for Detecting Security Threats at Standoff Distances
Authors: Rodriguez-Vaqueiro Yolanda , Martinez-Lorenzo Jose Angel
Published: July 2014

This work presents a new radar system concept, capable of detecting explosive related threats at standoff distances. The system consists of a two-dimensional aperture of randomly distributed transmitting/receiving antenna elements and a set of passive reflecting surfaces (PRS) positioned in the vicinity of the target. The PRS act as a mirror that enhances the field of view of the radar system, thus increasing its resolution. A 3D imaging algorithm, based on novel compressive sensing techniques, is used in this work. This system configuration provides a resolution of 7.1 mm in cross-range and 25 mm in range, when the target is at 10 m range, and the radar works at 60 GHz center frequency and has 6 GHz bandwidth.
Body Weight Concerns among Urban Adolescent Girls: A Microlevel Study
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Susmita , Ganguly Nandini , Mishra Shailendra Kumar
Published: July 2014

Growing consciousness about ideal body image leads to dietary modifications and consequent eating disorders among girls in developing countries like India. The present study aims to (i) assess the prevalence of body weight consciousness and related behaviours among a group of adolescent girls; (ii) assess the sociodemographic correlates of weight related behaviours; and (iii) compare weight related behaviours of the girls of two religious groups residing in Howrah. The study is the outcome of a cross-sectional school based survey involving 280 (159 Hindu and 121 Muslim) girls from standards 8 to 11. Significant differences exist between two religious groups with respect to their family size, socioeconomic profile, and media exposures (in terms of watching television). Consciousness about body weight among girls shows significant difference with respect to religion, family size (χ2=64.77), father’s occupation (χ2=60.28), level of education of both the parents, and media exposure (P<0.05). Consciousness about body weight drives them to adopt several behavioural measures like calorie restriction, food avoidance, and dieting. Sociodemographic correlates of all these behaviours have been analyzed. The study documents that concern over body image and weight loss is quite important among these urban girls.
Modelling and Simulation of Volume Controlled Mechanical Ventilation System
Authors: Shi Yan , Ren Shuai , Cai Maolin , Xu Weiqing
Published: July 2014

Volume controlled mechanical ventilation system is a typical time‐delay system, which is applied to ventilate patients who cannot breathe adequately on their own. To illustrate the influences of key parameters of the ventilator on the dynamics of the ventilated respiratory system, this paper firstly derived a new mathematical model of the ventilation system; secondly, simulation and experimental results are compared to verify the mathematical model; lastly, the influences of key parameters of ventilator on the dynamics of the ventilated respiratory system are carried out. This study can be helpful in the VCV ventilation treatment and respiratory diagnostics.
Investigation of Soil Liquefaction Potential around Efteni Lake in Duzce Turkey: Using Empirical Relationships between Shear Wave Velocity and SPT Blow Count (N)
Authors: Ateş Ali , Keskin İnan , Totiç Ermedin , Yeşil Burak
Published: July 2014

Evaluation of the liquefaction potential of a liquefaction-prone area is important for geotechnical earthquake engineering, both for assessment for site selection and for planning and new constructions. The liquefaction potential index for the city of Duzce in northwestern Turkey using the empirical relationships between the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) and the Shear Wave Velocity Test (VS) was investigated in this study. After,VSvalues based on SPT blow counts (N) were obtained from the alluvial soils in the city of Duzce. The liquefaction potential indexes of the soils were determined using the empirical relationships between the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) and the Shear Wave Velocity Test (VS) calculating for a probable earthquake ofMW=7.2. In the result of the study, the liquefaction potential index (LPI) values were interpreted and compared evaluating the SPTNblow count values obtained from the study area. Based on the empirical relationships assumed for the soils, it was observed that there was not a perfect agreement between the results of the two methods. The liquefaction potential index values using the SPTNblow counts were found to be lower than those of theVSmethod.
Effect of Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography Disease Burden on the Incidence of Recurrent Chest Pain
Authors: Ahmadian Homayoun R. , Thomas Dustin M. , Shaw David J. , Barnwell Megan L. , Jones Ronald L. , McDonough Ryan J. , Prentice Ryan L. , Lin Charles K. , Slim Ahmad M.
Published: July 2014

Introduction. The purpose of this study is to investigate chest pain evaluations after initial coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) based upon coronary artery disease (CAD) burden. Methods. CCTA results of 1,518 patients were grouped based on the CCTA results into no CAD, nonobstructive CAD (<50% maximal diameter stenosis), or obstructive CAD (≥50% stenosis). Chest pain evaluation after initial CCTA and rates of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) defined as the incidence of all-cause mortality, nonfatal MI, ischemic stroke, and late revascularization (>90 days following CCTA) were evaluated. Results. MACE rates were higher with obstructive CAD compared to nonobstructive CAD and no CAD (8.9% versus 0.7%, P<0.001; 8.9 versus 1.6%, P<0.001). One hundred seventy-four patients (11.5%) underwent evaluation for chest pain after index CCTA with rates significantly higher with obstructive CAD compared to both nonobstructive CAD and no CAD (7.5% versus 13.9% versus 17.8%, P<0.001). The incidence of repeat testing was more frequent in patients with obstructive CAD (no CAD 36.5% versus nonobstructive CAD 54.9% versus obstructive CAD 67.7%, P=0.015). Conclusion. Absence of obstructive disease on CCTA is associated with lower rates of subsequent evaluations for chest pain and repeat testing with low MACE event rates over a 22-month followup.
Top-Emission Organic Light Emitting Diode Fabrication Using High Dissipation Graphite Substrate
Authors: Tsai Yu-Sheng , Hong Lin-Ann , Huang Jian-Ji , Yeh Kuan-Hung , Juang Fuh-Shyang
Published: July 2014

This study uses a synthetic graphite fiber as the heat dissipation substrate for top-emission organic light emitting diode (TEOLED) to reduce the impact from joule heat. UV glue (YCD91) was spin coated onto the substrate as the insulation layer. The TEOLED structure is (glass; copper; graphite) substrate/YCD91 glue/Al/Au/EHI608/TAPC/Alq3/LiF/Al/Ag. The proposed graphite fiber substrate presents better luminous performance compared with glass and copper substrate devices with luminance of 3055 cd/m2and current efficiency of 6.11 cd/A at 50 mA/cm2. When lighting period of different substrates TEOLED, the substrate case back temperature was observed using different lighting periods. A glass substrate element operating from 5 to 25 seconds at 3000 cd/m2luminance produced a temperature rate of 1.207°C/sec. Under 4000 cd/m2luminance the copper and graphite substrate temperature rates were 0.125°C/sec and 0.088°C/sec. Graphite component lifetime was determined to be 1.875 times higher than the glass components and 1.125 times higher than that of copper.
Multimicronutrient Slow-Release Fertilizer of Zinc, Iron, Manganese, and Copper
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Siladitya , Ghosh Kunal , Varadachari Chandrika
Published: July 2014

The process for the production of a slow-release micronutrient fertilizer is described. The compound contains zinc, iron, manganese, and copper as micronutrients and is produced by polymerizing a system containing phosphoric acid, zinc oxide, hematite, pyrolusite, copper sulfate, and magnesium oxide followed by neutralization of the polyphosphate chain with ammonium hydroxide. Changes in temperature, density, and viscosity of the reaction system during polymerization were studied. Reaction kinetics was studied at three different temperatures. Rate curves revealed a multistage process with essentially linear rates at each stage. Thus, each stage displayed zero order kinetics. The product was crystalline and revealed ordering of P-O-P chains. It had low solubility in water but high solubility in 0.33 M citric acid and 0.005 M DTPA. Three different field trials showed significant yield increments using the slow-release micronutrient fertilizer compared to the conventional micronutrients. Yield increments in rice were in the range of 10–55% over control (with no micronutrient) and up to 17% over the conventional micronutrient fertilizers. There were significant increases in total uptake of zinc, iron, and manganese in the grain. Slow-release fertilizers also produced significant yield increases in potato as well as significant increase in vitamin C content of the tuber.
AlgebraicL2Decay for Weak Solutions of the Nonlinear Heat Equations in Whole SpaceR3
Authors: Yang Yuexing
Published: July 2014

We obtained the algebraicL2time decay rate for weak solutions of the nonlinear heat equations with the nonlinear term∇u2uin whole spaceR3. The methods are based on energy methods and Fourier analysis technique.
Enoxaparin Prevents Steroid-Related Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head
Authors: Beckmann Rainer , Shaheen Hayfaa , Kweider Nisreen , Ghassemi Alireza , Fragoulis Athanassios , Hermanns-Sachweh Benita , Pufe Thomas , Kadyrov Mamed , Drescher Wolf
Published: July 2014

Nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head is still a challenging problem in orthopedic surgery. It is responsible for 10% of the 500,000 hip replacement surgeries in the USA and affects relatively young, active patients in particular. Main reasons for nontraumatic osteonecrosis are glucocorticoid use, alcoholism, thrombophilia, and hypofibrinolysis (Glueck et al., 1997; Orth and Anagnostakos, 2013). One pathomechanism of steroid-induced osteonecrosis is thought to be impaired blood flow to the femoral head caused by increased thrombus formation and vasoconstriction. To investigate the preventive effect of enoxaparin on steroid-related osteonecrosis, we used male New Zealand white rabbits. Osteonecrosis was induced by methylprednisolone-injection (1×20 mg/kg body weight). Control animals were treated with phosphate-buffered saline. Treatment consisted of an injection of 11.7 mg/kg body weight of enoxaparin per day (Clexane) in addition to methylprednisolone. Four weeks after methylprednisolone-injection the animals were sacrificed. Histology (hematoxylin-eosin and Ladewig staining) was performed, and empty lacunae and histological signs of osteonecrosis were quantified. Histomorphometry revealed a significant increase in empty lacunae and necrotic changed osteocytes in glucocorticoid-treated animals as compared with the glucocorticoid- and Clexane-treated animals and with the control group. No significant difference was detected between the glucocorticoid and Clexane group and the control group. This finding suggests that cotreatment with enoxaparin has the potential to prevent steroid-associated osteonecrosis.

Corrigendum to “Enoxaparin Prevents Steroid-Related Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head”
Application of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Nanofluid for 450 W LED Floodlight
Authors: Hung Thang Bui , Dinh Quang Le , Manh Hong Nguyen , Khoi Phan Hong , Minh Phan Ngoc
Published: July 2014

Overheating of the high‐power light emitting diode (LED) has a dramatic effect on the chip’s lifetime. Heat dissipation for high‐power LED is becoming a major challenge for researchers and technicians. Compared with the air cooling method, the liquid cooling method has many advantages and high efficiency because of higher specific heat capacity, density, and thermal conductivity. Carbon nanotubes with remarkable thermal properties have been used as additives in liquids to increase the thermal conductivity. In this work, multiwalled carbon nanotubes nanofluid (MWCNTs nanofluid) was used to enhance heat dissipation for 450 W LED floodlight. MWCNTs nanofluid was made by dispersing the OH functionalized MWCNTs in ethylene glycol/water solution. The concentration of MWCNTs in fluid was in the range between 0.1 and 1.3 gram/liter. The experimental results showed that the saturated temperature of 450 W LED chip was 55°C when using water/ethylene glycol solution in liquid cooling system. In the case of using MWCNTs nanofluid with 1.2 gram/liter of MWCNTs’ concentration, the saturated temperature of LED chip was 50.6°C. The results have confirmed the advantages of the MWCNTs for heat dissipation systems for high‐power LED floodlight and other high power electronic devices.
Treatment Outcomes in Patients with Internet Addiction: A Clinical Pilot Study on the Effects of a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Program
Authors: Wölfling K. , Beutel M. E. , Dreier M. , Müller K. W.
Published: July 2014

Internet addiction is regarded as a growing health concern in many parts of the world with prevalence rates of 1-2% in Europe and up to 7% in some Asian countries. Clinical research has demonstrated that Internet addiction is accompanied with loss of interests, decreased psychosocial functioning, social retreat, and heightened psychosocial distress. Specialized treatment programs are needed to face this problem that has recently been added to the appendix of the DSM-5. While there are numerous studies assessing clinical characteristics of patients with Internet addiction, the knowledge about the effectiveness of treatment programs is limited. Although a recent meta-analysis indicates that those programs show effects, more clinical studies are needed here. To add knowledge, we conducted a pilot study on the effects of a standardized cognitive-behavioral therapy program for IA. 42 male adults meeting criteria for Internet addiction were enrolled. Their IA-status, psychopathological symptoms, and perceived self-efficacy expectancy were assessed before and after the treatment. The results show that 70.3% of the patients finished the therapy regularly. After treatment symptoms of IA had decreased significantly. Psychopathological symptoms were reduced as well as associated psychosocial problems. The results of this pilot study emphasize findings from the only meta-analysis conducted so far.
Investigation of the Photocatalytic Activity of ZnO Nanowires: Substrate Effect and Kinetics Analysis
Authors: Chang Jan-Hau , Lin Heh-Nan
Published: July 2014

The photocatalytic activity of substrate‐supported ZnO nanowires is investigated with a focus on the substrate effect and the photodegradation kinetics. The employed NWs are grown on various substrates by thermal evaporation and a 50 μM rhodamine B solution is used as the target solution. It is found that the photocatalytic activity is facilitated by using a conductive substrate and such a result can be reasonably attributed to the improvement of charge separation. The photodegradation is found to follow a zeroth‐order kinetics at high concentrations and a first‐order kinetics at low concentrations with a transition at around 10 μM. The present observation is opposed to the commonly accepted first‐order kinetics. Degradation constants of 0.58 μM·min−1 for the zeroth‐order and 0.028 min−1 for the first‐order have been achieved. The first‐order constant also compares favorably with reported values.