bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muscle Synergies May Improve Optimization Prediction of Knee Contact Forces During Walking
Authors: Walter Jonathan P. , Kinney Allison L. , Banks Scott A. , D'Lima Darryl D. , Besier Thor F. , Lloyd David G. , Fregly Benjamin J.
Published: January 2014

The ability to predict patient-specific joint contact and muscle forces accurately could improve the treatment of walking-related disorders. Muscle synergy analysis, which decomposes a large number of muscle electromyographic (EMG) signals into a small number of synergy control signals, could reduce the dimensionality and thus redundancy of the muscle and contact force prediction process. This study investigated whether use of subject-specific synergy controls can improve optimization prediction of knee contact forces during walking. To generate the predictions, we performed mixed dynamic muscle force optimizations (i.e., inverse skeletal dynamics with forward muscle activation and contraction dynamics) using data collected from a subject implanted with a force-measuring knee replacement. Twelve optimization problems (three cases with four subcases each) that minimized the sum of squares of muscle excitations were formulated to investigate how synergy controls affect knee contact force predictions. The three cases were: (1) Calibrate+Match where muscle model parameter values were calibrated and experimental knee contact forces were simultaneously matched, (2) Precalibrate+Predict where experimental knee contact forces were predicted using precalibrated muscle model parameters values from the first case, and (3) Calibrate+Predict where muscle model parameter values were calibrated and experimental knee contact forces were simultaneously predicted, all while matching inverse dynamic loads at the hip, knee, and ankle. The four subcases used either 44 independent controls or five synergy controls with and without EMG shape tracking. For the Calibrate+Match case, all four subcases closely reproduced the measured medial and lateral knee contact forces (R2 ≥ 0.94, root-mean-square (RMS) error < 66 N), indicating sufficient model fidelity for contact force prediction. For the Precalibrate+Predict and Calibrate+Predict cases, synergy controls yielded better contact force predictions (0.61 < R2 < 0.90, 83 N < RMS error < 161 N) than did independent controls (-0.15 < R2 < 0.79, 124 N < RMS error < 343 N) for corresponding subcases. For independent controls, contact force predictions improved when precalibrated model parameter values or EMG shape tracking was used. For synergy controls, contact force predictions were relatively insensitive to how model parameter values were calibrated, while EMG shape tracking made lateral (but not medial) contact force predictions worse. For the subject and optimization cost function analyzed in this study, use of subject-specific synergy controls improved the accuracy of knee contact force predictions, especially for lateral contact force when EMG shape tracking was omitted, and reduced prediction sensitivity to uncertainties in muscle model parameter values.
Experimental Investigation and Design Optimization of Targeted Energy Transfer Under Periodic Forcing
Authors: Gourc Etienne , Michon Guilhem , Seguy Sébastien , Berlioz Alain
Published: January 2014

In this paper, the dynamic response of a harmonically forced linear oscillator (LO) strongly coupled to a nonlinear energy sink (NES) is investigated both theoretically and experimentally. The system studied comprises an LO with an embedded, purely cubic NES. The behavior of the system is analyzed in the vicinity of 1:1 resonance. The complexification-averaging technique is used to obtain modulation equations and the associated fixed points. These modulation equations are analyzed using asymptotic expansion to study the regimes related to relaxation oscillation of the slow flow, called strongly modulated response (SMR). The zones where SMR occurs are computed using a mapping procedure. The slow invariant manifolds (SIM) are used to derive a proper optimization procedure. It is shown that there is an optimal zone in the forcing amplitude-nonlinear stiffness parameter plane, where SMR occurs without having a high amplitude detached resonance tongue. Two experimental setups are presented. One is not optimized and has a relatively high mass ratio (≈13%) and the other one is optimized and exhibits strong mass asymmetry (mass ratio ≈1%). Different frequency response curves and associated zones of SMR are obtained for various forcing amplitudes. The reported experimental results confirm the design procedure and the possible application of NES for vibration mitigation under periodic forcing.
Extraction and Testing of Miniature Compression Specimens From Bearing Balls Subjected to Rolling Contact Fatigue
Authors: Allison B. D. , Subhash G. , Arakere N. K. , Chin H. , Haluck D. , Yamaguchi H.
Published: January 2014

Extraction and testing of miniature compression specimens from localized regions of components affected by rolling contact fatigue loading can provide significant insight into material degradation. Current ASTM standards for compression testing of cylindrical specimens become too stringent and difficult to achieve when specimen size is reduced to around 1 mm in diameter. The tolerances for surface flatness, parallelism of the loading surfaces, and the perpendicularity between the axis and the loading surfaces play crucial roles in the resulting stress-strain curves under uniaxial compression loading. In this manuscript, a systematic study is performed to quantify the influence of the above geometric parameters on the stress-strain response. Based on the analysis, the allowable geometric tolerances of miniature cylindrical specimens for a valid compression tests are recommended. The analysis results are validated and the usefulness of the method is demonstrated on miniature specimens extracted from the rolling contact fatigue affected regions of high strength M50 bearing balls. The yield stress within the rolling contact fatigue affected region is shown to increase by over 12%.
Prefailure and Failure Mechanics of the Porcine Ascending Thoracic Aorta: Experiments and a Multiscale Model
Authors: Shah Sachin B. , Witzenburg Colleen , Hadi Mohammad F. , Wagner Hallie P. , Goodrich Janna M. , Alford Patrick W. , Barocas Victor H.
Published: January 2014

Ascending thoracic aortic aneurysms (ATAA) have a high propensity for dissection, which occurs when the hemodynamic load exceeds the mechanical strength of the aortic media. Despite our recognition of this essential fact, the complex architecture of the media has made a predictive model of medial failure—even in the relatively simple case of the healthy vessel—difficult to achieve. As a first step towards a general model of ATAA failure, we characterized the mechanical behavior of healthy ascending thoracic aorta (ATA) media using uniaxial stretch-to-failure in both circumferential (n = 11) and axial (n = 11) orientations and equibiaxial extensions (n = 9). Both experiments demonstrated anisotropy, with higher tensile strength in the circumferential direction (2510 ± 439.3 kPa) compared to the axial direction (750 ± 102.6 kPa) for the uniaxial tests, and a ratio of 1.44 between the peak circumferential and axial loads in equibiaxial extension. Uniaxial tests for both orientations showed macroscopic tissue failure at a stretch of 1.9. A multiscale computational model, consisting of a realistically aligned interconnected fiber network in parallel with a neo-Hookean solid, was used to describe the data; failure was modeled at the fiber level, with an individual fiber failing when stretched beyond a critical threshold. The best-fit model results were within the 95% confidence intervals for uniaxial and biaxial experiments, including both prefailure and failure, and were consistent with properties of the components of the ATA media.
Modeling Tumor Microenvironments In Vitro
Authors: Wu Mingming , Swartz Melody A.
Published: January 2014

Tumor progression depends critically upon the interactions between the tumor cells and their microenvironment. The tumor microenvironment is heterogeneous and dynamic; it consists of extracellular matrix, stromal cells, immune cells, progenitor cells, and blood and lymphatic vessels. The emerging fields of tissue engineering and microtechnologies have opened up new possibilities for engineering physiologically relevant and spatially well-defined microenvironments. These in vitro models allow specific manipulation of biophysical and biochemical parameters, such as chemical gradients, biomatrix stiffness, metabolic stress, and fluid flows; thus providing a means to study their roles in certain aspects of tumor progression such as cell proliferation, invasion, and crosstalk with other cell types. Challenges and perspectives for deconvolving the complexity of tumor microenvironments will be discussed. Emphasis will be given to in vitro models of tumor cell migration and invasion.
In Vitro Zinc-Air Battery Evaluation for Use in Intraoral Medical Devices
Authors: Amaral Miguel , do Vale Francisco , Silva João , Caramelo Francisco , Veiga Germano
Published: January 2014

The aim of the present work was to evaluate the possibility of using zinc-air batteries in intraoral medical devices. We analyzed the electrical behavior of zinc-air batteries when submitted to different levels of temperature, humidity, and limited quantities of air. The experimental setup was divided in three different parts. Firstly, a set of batteries were tested within a climatic chamber and subjected to discharging tests similar to those recommended by the manufacturer. The climatic chamber allowed an accurate variation of humidity and temperature. Secondly, the batteries were placed in a small prototype of intraoral medical device and tested in the absence of air. Lastly, we used a robot arm to repeatedly immerse the prototype in artificial saliva. The results obtained demonstrated the viability of zinc-air batteries as a power solution for intraoral medical devices, as they tolerate high levels of humidity and are capable of working with limited quantities of air. In addition, this kind of battery presents a volume to electrical capacity ratio more than three times higher than lithium batteries, which may open important improvement for powered medical devices.
Insights Into Regional Adaptations in the Growing Pulmonary Artery Using a Meso-Scale Structural Model: Effects of Ascending Aorta Impingement
Authors: Fata Bahar , Zhang Will , Amini Rouzbeh , Sacks Michael S.
Published: January 2014

As the next step in our investigations into the structural adaptations of the main pulmonary artery (PA) during postnatal growth, we utilized the extensive experimental measurements of the growing ovine PA from our previous study (Fata et al., 2013, “Estimated in vivo Postnatal Surface Growth Patterns of the Ovine Main Pulmonary Artery and Ascending Aorta,” J. Biomech. Eng., 135(7), pp. 71010–71012). to develop a structural constitutive model for the PA wall tissue. Novel to the present approach was the treatment of the elastin network as a distributed fiber network rather than a continuum phase. We then utilized this model to delineate structure-function differences in the PA wall at the juvenile and adult stages. Overall, the predicted elastin moduli exhibited minor differences remained largely unchanged with age and region (in the range of 150 to 200 kPa). Similarly, the predicted collagen moduli ranged from ∼1,600 to 2700 kPa in the four regions studied in the juvenile state. Interestingly, we found for the medial region that the elastin and collagen fiber splay underwent opposite changes (collagen standard deviation juvenile = 17 deg to adult = 28 deg, elastin standard deviation juvenile = 35 deg to adult = 27 deg), along with a trend towards more rapid collagen fiber strain recruitment with age, along with a drop in collagen fiber moduli, which went from 2700 kPa for the juvenile stage to 746 kPa in the adult. These changes were likely due to the previously observed impingement of the relatively stiff ascending aorta on the growing PA medial region. Intuitively, the effects of the local impingement would be to lower the local wall stress, consistent with the observed parallel decrease in collagen modulus. These results suggest that during the postnatal somatic growth period local stresses can substantially modulate regional tissue microstructure and mechanical behaviors in the PA. We further underscore that our previous studies indicated an increase in effective PA wall stress with postnatal maturation. When taken together with the fact that the observed changes in mechanical behavior and structure in the growing PA wall were modest in the other three regions studied, our collective results suggest that the majority of the growing PA wall is subjected to increasing stress levels with age without undergoing major structural adaptations. This observation is contrary to the accepted theory of maintenance of homeostatic stress levels in the regulation of vascular function, and suggests alternative mechanisms might regulate postnatal somatic growth. Understanding the underlying mechanisms will help to improve our understanding of congenital defects of the PA and lay the basis for functional duplication in their repair and replacement.
Comparison of surface vacuum ultraviolet emissions with resonance level number densities. I. Argon plasmas
Authors: Boffard John B. , Lin Chun C. , Culver Cody , Wang Shicong , Wendt Amy E. , Radovanov Svetlana , Persing Harold
Published: January 2014

Vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) photons emitted from excited atomic states are ubiquitous in material processing plasmas. The highly energetic photons can induce surface damage by driving surface reactions, disordering surface regions, and affecting bonds in the bulk material. In argon plasmas, the VUV emissions are due to the decay of the 1s4 and 1s2 principal resonance levels with emission wavelengths of 104.8 and 106.7 nm, respectively. The authors have measured the number densities of atoms in the two resonance levels using both white light optical absorption spectroscopy and radiation-trapping induced changes in the 3p54p→3p54s branching fractions measured via visible/near-infrared optical emission spectroscopy in an argon inductively coupled plasma as a function of both pressure and power. An emission model that takes into account radiation trapping was used to calculate the VUV emission rate. The model results were compared to experimental measurements made with a National Institute of Standards and Technology-calibrated VUV photodiode. The photodiode and model results are in generally good accord and reveal a strong dependence on the neutral gas temperature.
Offline multiple adaptive planning strategy for concurrent irradiation of the prostate and pelvic lymph nodes
Authors: Qi Peng , Pouliot Jean , Roach Mack , Xia Ping
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

Concurrent irradiation of the prostate and pelvic lymph nodes (PLNs) can be challenging due to the independent motion of the two target volumes. To address this challenge, the authors have proposed a strategy referred to as Multiple Adaptive Planning (MAP). To minimize the number of MAP plans, the authors’ previous work only considered the prostate motion in one major direction. After analyzing the pattern of the prostate motion, the authors investigated a practical number of intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) plans needed to accommodate the prostate motion in two major directions simultaneously.

Methods:

Six patients, who received concurrent irradiation of the prostate and PLNs, were selected for this study. Nine MAP‐IMRT plans were created for each patient with nine prostate contours that represented the prostate at nine locations with respect to the PLNs, including the original prostate contour and eight contours shifted either 5 mm in a single anterior‐posterior (A‐P), or superior‐inferior (S‐I) direction, or 5 mm in both A‐P and S‐I directions simultaneously. From archived megavoltage cone beam CT (MV‐CBCT) and a dual imaging registration, 17 MV‐CBCTs from 33 available MV‐CBCT from these patients showed large prostate displacements (>3 mm in any direction) with respect to the pelvic bones. For each of these 17 fractions, one of nine MAP‐IMRT plans was retrospectively selected and applied to the MV‐CBCT for dose calculation. For comparison, a simulated isocenter‐shifting plan and a reoptimized plan were also created for each of these 17 fractions. The doses to 95% (D95) of the prostate and PLNs, and the doses to 5% (D5) of the rectum and bladder were calculated and analyzed.

Results:

For the prostate, D95 > 97% of the prescription dose was observed in 16, 16, and 17 of 17 fractions for the MAP, isocenter‐shifted, and reoptimized plans, respectively. For PLNs, D95 > 97% of the prescription doses was observed in 10, 3, and 17 of 17 fractions for the three types of verification plans, respectively. The D5 (mean ± SD) of the rectum was 45.78 ± 5.75, 45.44 ± 4.64, and 44.64 ± 2.71 Gy, and the D5 (mean ± SD) of the bladder was 45.18 ± 2.70, 46.91 ± 3.04, and 45.67 ± 3.61 Gy for three types of verification plans, respectively.

Conclusions:

The MAP strategy with nine IMRT plans to accommodate the prostate motions in two major directions achieved good dose coverage to the prostate and PLNs. The MAP approach can be immediately used in clinical practice without requiring extra hardware and software.
Altered Placebo and Drug Labeling Changes the Outcome of Episodic Migraine Attacks
Authors: Kam-Hansen Slavenka , Jakubowski Moshe , Kelley John M. , Kirsch Irving , Hoaglin David C. , Kaptchuk Ted J. , Burstein Rami
Published: January 2014

In 459 migraine attacks, information provided to patients (from negative to neutral to positive) modified placebo and medication outcomes in a progressive fashion.
The Presence of Female Conveners Correlates with a Higher Proportion of Female Speakers at Scientific Symposia
Authors: Casadevall Arturo , Handelsman Jo
Published: January 2014

We investigated the hypothesis that the gender of conveners at scientific meetings influenced the gender distribution of invited speakers. Analysis of 460 symposia involving 1,845 speakers in two large meetings sponsored by the American Society for Microbiology revealed that having at least one woman member of the convening team correlated with a significantly higher proportion of invited female speakers and reduced the likelihood of an all-male symposium roster. Our results suggest that inclusion of more women as conveners may increase the proportion of women among invited speakers at scientific meetings.

IMPORTANCE
The proportion of women entering scientific careers has increased substantially, but women remain underrepresented in academic ranks. Participation in meetings as a speaker is a factor of great importance for academic advancement. We found that having a woman as a convener greatly increased women’s participation in symposia, suggesting that one mechanism for achieving gender balance at scientific meetings is to involve more women as conveners.
Of mice and men
Authors: D'Silva Andrew , Akroyd Rebecca , Brooks Tim , Dashora Umesh
Published: January 2014

A case study of a patient returning from sub-Saharan Africa with a febrile illness and symptoms reminiscent of a previous malarial infection is discussed. The patient had a relative bradycardia with respect to febrile episodes, a transient macular rash and thrombocytopenia. The illness was conservatively managed for 1 month before positiveRickettsiaserology and PCR results were reported. The patient was then treated with doxycycline with a complete resolution of symptoms.
Visible-light assisted reduction of graphene oxide and its potential applications in water treatment
Authors: Li Haibo , Liang Sen , Li Guolong , He Lijun , Li Jin
Published: January 2014

A novel, environmental-friendly approach for the reduction of graphene oxide (GO) by means of incorporating visible-light sensitive TiO 2 and steady state visible-light irradiation was undertaken. Some potential applications of the resultant TiO 2-graphene composites as water treatment technique, such as electrosorption and dissolved organic matter removal, have been demonstrated as well.
Anode performances of mixed LiMn2O4 and carbon black toward lithium-ion battery
Authors: Chen Kunfeng , Xue Dongfeng
Published: January 2014

The mixed LiMn 2 O 4 and carbon black were served as anodes for lithium-ion batteries and the samples with high active material utilization ratio showed the highest capacity and cycling retention of 407.0 mAh/g after 50 charge/discharge cycles. The galvanostatic cycling and electrochemical impedance measurements were used to study their electrochemical performances. The commercial carbon black showed higher cycling retention, 162.0 mAh/g after 50 charge/discharge cycles. The present results confirmed that the capacity and cycling retention of LiMn 2 O 4 anodes can be improved by the increase of conductivity in lithium-ion batteries, which can increase the utilization ratio of active materials.
The identification of irisin in human cerebrospinal fluid: influence of adiposity, metabolic markers, and gestational diabetes
Authors: Piya Milan K. , Harte Alison L. , Sivakumar Kavitha , Tripathi Gyanendra , Voyias Philip D. , James Sean , Sabico Shaun , Al-Daghri Nasser M. , Saravanan Ponnusamy , Barber Thomas M. , Kumar Sudhesh , Vatish Manu , McTernan Philip G.
Published: January 2014

Peripheral action of irisin improves glucose homeostasis and increases energy expenditure, with no data on a central role of irisin in metabolism. These studies sought to examine 1) presence of irisin in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and banked human hypothalamic tissue, 2) serum irisin in maternal subjects across varying adiposities with or without gestational diabetes (GDM), and 3) their respective neonate offspring. CSF, serum, and neonatal cord serum were collected from 91 pregnant women with and without GDM attending for an elective cesarean section [body mass index (BMI): 37.7 ± 7.6 kg/m2; age: 32 ± 8.3 yr]. Irisin was assessed by ELISA and correlated with biochemical and anthropometric data. Irisin expression was examined in human hypothalamus by immunohistochemical staining. Serum irisin in pregnant women was significantly lower in nonobese compared with obese and GDM subjects, after adjusting for BMI, lipids, and glucose. Irisin was present in neonatal cord serum (237 ± 8 ng/ml) and maternal CSF (32 ± 1.5 ng/ml). CSF irisin correlated positively with serum irisin levels from nonobese and obese pregnant women ( P < 0.01), with CSF irisin significantly raised in GDM subjects ( P < 0.05). Irisin was present in human hypothalamic sections in the paraventricular neurons, colocalized with neuropeptide Y. Irisin was detectable in CSF and in paraventricular neurons. Maternal serum irisin was lower in nonobese pregnant women after adjusting for BMI and a number of metabolic parameters. These studies indicate that irisin may have a central role in metabolism in addition to the known peripheral role. Further studies investigating the central action of irisin in human metabolic disease are required.
In Vitro Characterization of Valproic Acid, ATRA, and Cytarabine Used for Disease-Stabilization in Human Acute Myeloid Leukemia:
Antiproliferative Effects of Drugs on Endothelial and Osteoblastic Cells and Altered Release of Angioregulatory Mediators by Endothelial Cells
Authors: Kvestad Hilde , Evensen Lasse , Lorens James B. , Bruserud Øystein , Hatfield Kimberley J.
Published: January 2014

The combined use of the histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid (VPA), the retinoic acid receptor-α agonist all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), and the deoxyribonucleic acid polymerase-α inhibitor cytarabine (Ara-C) is now considered for disease-stabilizing treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Leukemogenesis and leukemia cell chemoresistance seem to be supported by neighbouring stromal cells in the bone marrow, and we have therefore investigated the effects of these drugs on primary human endothelial cells and the osteoblastic Cal72 cell line. The results show that VPA and Ara-C have antiproliferative effects, and the antiproliferative/cytotoxic effect of Ara-C was seen at low concentrations corresponding to serum levels found during low-dose in vivo treatment. Furthermore, in functional assays of endothelial migration and tube formation VPA elicited an antiangiogenic effect, whereas ATRA elicited a proangiogenic effect. Finally, VPA and ATRA altered the endothelial cell release of angiogenic mediators; ATRA increased levels of CXCL8, PDGF-AA, and VEGF-D, while VPA decreased VEGF-D and PDGF-AA/BB levels and both drugs reduced MMP-2 levels. Several of these mediators can enhance AML cell proliferation and/or are involved in AML-induced bone marrow angiogenesis, and direct pharmacological effects on stromal cells may thus indirectly contribute to the overall antileukemic activity of this triple drug combination.
Overexpression of FOXO3, MYD88, and GAPDH Identified by Suppression Subtractive Hybridization in Esophageal Cancer Is Associated with Autophagy
Authors: Soltany-Rezaee-Rad Mohammad , Mottaghi-Dastjerdi Negar , Setayesh Neda , Roshandel Gholamreza , Ebrahimifard Farzaneh , Sepehrizadeh Zargham
Published: January 2014

To find genes involved in tumorigenesis and the development of esophageal cancer, the suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) method was used to identify genes that are overexpressed in esophageal cancer tissues compared to normal esophageal tissues. In our SSH library, the forkhead box O3 (FOXO3), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), and myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MYD88) genes were the most highly upregulated genes, and they were selected for further studies because of their potential role in the induction of autophagy. Upregulation of these genes was also observed in clinical samples using qRT-PCR. In addition, coexpression analysis of the autophagy-related genes Beclin1, ATG12, Gabarapl, PIK3C3, and LC3 demonstrated a significant correlation between the differentially overexpressed genes and autophagy. Autophagy is an important mechanism in tumorigenesis and the development of chemoresistance in cancer cells. The upregulation of FOXO3, GAPDH, and MYD88 variants in esophageal cancer suggests a role for autophagy and provides new insight into the biology of esophageal cancer. We propose that FOXO3, GAPDH, and MYD88 are novel targets for combating autophagy in esophageal cancer.
Adoptive TIL Transfer in the Adjuvant Setting for Melanoma: Long-Term Patient Survival
Authors: Khammari Amir , Knol Anne-Chantal , Nguyen Jean-Michel , Bossard Céline , Denis Marc-Guillaume , Pandolfino Marie-Christine , Quéreux Gaëlle , Bercegeay Sylvain , Dréno Brigitte
Published: January 2014

Two first analyses of our clinical trial on TIL as adjuvant therapy for melanoma were published in 2002 and 2007. We present here an update of the clinical results after a 17-year median followup. In this trial, disease-free patients were randomly assigned to receive either TIL/IL-2 or IL-2. The relapse-free survival (RFS) was the primary objective. Eighty-eight patients were enrolled. A new analysis performed in May 2013 did not show significant changes in RFS or OS duration. However, our first finding on the association between the number of invaded lymph nodes and TIL effectiveness was strengthened. The Cox model adjusted on this interaction showed for the first time a significant treatment effect when considering the overall population, both on the RFS and OS. Patients treated with TIL had a longer RFS (P=0.023) or OS (P=0.020). This study being with a very long followup (17 years), confirmed the association between TIL effectiveness and the number of invaded lymph nodes, indicating that a low tumor burden could be a crucial factor enhancing the curative effect of TIL in possible microscopic residual disease. Moreover, we confirmed that a prolonged survival was associated with the presence of specific TIL and a decrease in Foxp3 expression.
TSRF: A Trust-Aware Secure Routing Framework in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Duan Junqi , Yang Dong , Zhu Haoqing , Zhang Sidong , Zhao Jing
Published: January 2014

In recent years, trust-aware routing protocol plays a vital role in security of wireless sensor networks (WSNs), which is one of the most popular network technologies for smart city. However, several key issues in conventional trust-aware routing protocols still remain to be solved, such as the compatibility of trust metric with QoS metrics and the control of overhead produced by trust evaluation procedure. This paper proposes a trust-aware secure routing framework (TSRF) with the characteristics of lightweight and high ability to resist various attacks. To meet the security requirements of routing protocols in WSNs, we first analyze features of common attacks on trust-aware routing schemes. Then, specific trust computation and trust derivation schemes are proposed based on analysis results. Finally, our design uses the combination of trust metric and QoS metrics as routing metrics to present an optimized routing algorithm. We show with the help of simulations that TSRF can achieve both intended security and high efficiency suitable for WSN-based networks.
Astrocyte-Synapse Structural Plasticity
Authors: Bernardinelli Yann , Muller Dominique , Nikonenko Irina
Published: January 2014

The function and efficacy of synaptic transmission are determined not only by the composition and activity of pre- and postsynaptic components but also by the environment in which a synapse is embedded. Glial cells constitute an important part of this environment and participate in several aspects of synaptic functions. Among the glial cell family, the roles played by astrocytes at the synaptic level are particularly important, ranging from the trophic support to the fine-tuning of transmission. Astrocytic structures are frequently observed in close association with glutamatergic synapses, providing a morphological entity for bidirectional interactions with synapses. Experimental evidence indicates that astrocytes sense neuronal activity by elevating their intracellular calcium in response to neurotransmitters and may communicate with neurons. The precise role of astrocytes in regulating synaptic properties, function, and plasticity remains however a subject of intense debate and many aspects of their interactions with neurons remain to be investigated. A particularly intriguing aspect is their ability to rapidly restructure their processes and modify their coverage of the synaptic elements. The present review summarizes some of these findings with a particular focus on the mechanisms driving this form of structural plasticity and its possible impact on synaptic structure and function.
Combined Natural Convection and Radiation Heat Transfer of Various Absorbing-Emitting-Scattering Media in a Square Cavity
Authors: Liu Xianglong , Gong Guangcai , Cheng Hengsheng
Published: January 2014

A numerical model is developed to simulate combined natural convection and radiation heat transfer of various anisotropic absorbing-emitting-scattering media in a 2D square cavity based on the discrete ordinate (DO) method and Boussinesq assumption. The effects of Rayleigh number, optical thickness, scattering ratio, scattering phase function, and aspect ratio of square cavity on the behaviors of heat transfer are studied. The results show that the heat transfer of absorbing-emitting-scattering media is the combined results of radiation and natural convection, which depends on the physical properties and the aspect ratio of the cavity. When the natural convection becomes significant, the convection heat transfer is enhanced, and the distributions of Nu R and Nu c along the walls are obviously distorted. As the optical thickness increases, Nu R along the hot wall decreases. As the scattering ratio decreases, the Nu R along the walls decreases. At the higher aspect ratio, the more intensive thermal radiation and natural convection are formed, which increase the radiation and convection heat fluxes. This paper provides the theoretical research for the optimal thermal design and practical operation of the high temperature industrial equipments.
Turbo Warrants under Hybrid Stochastic and Local Volatility
Authors: Lee Min-Ku , Yoon Ji-Hun , Kim Jeong-Hoon , Cho Sun-Hwa
Published: January 2014

This paper considers the pricing of turbo warrants under a hybrid stochastic and local volatility model. The model consists of the constant elasticity of variance model incorporated by a fast fluctuating Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process for stochastic volatility. The sensitive structure of the turbo warrant price is revealed by asymptotic analysis and numerical computation based on the observation that the elasticity of variance controls leverage effects and plays an important role in characterizing various phases of volatile markets.
Equivalent Conditions of Generalized Convex Fuzzy Mappings
Authors: Liu Xue Wen , He Dou
Published: January 2014

We obtain some equivalent conditions of (strictly) pseudoconvex and quasiconvex fuzzy mappings. These results will be useful to present some characterizations of solutions for fuzzy mathematical programming.
Cognitive Wireless Sensor Network Platform for Cooperative Communications
Authors: Tena Agustín , Jara Guillermo , Domingo Juan , Romero Elena , Araujo Alvaro
Published: January 2014

Nowadays, Wireless Ad Hoc Sensor Networks (WAHSNs), specially limited in energy and resources, are subject to development constraints and difficulties such as the increasing RF spectrum saturation at the unlicensed bands. Cognitive Wireless Sensor Networks (CWSNs), leaning on a cooperative communication model, develop new strategies to mitigate the inefficient use of the spectrum that WAHSNs face. However, few and poorly featured platforms allow their study due to their early research stage. This paper presents a versatile platform that brings together cognitive properties into WAHSNs. It combines hardware and software modules as an entire instrument to investigate CWSNs. The hardware fits WAHSN requirements in terms of size, cost, features, and energy. It allows communication over three different RF bands, becoming the only cognitive platform for WAHSNs with this capability. In addition, its modular and scalable design is widely adaptable to almost any WAHSN application. Significant features such as radio interface (RI) agility or energy consumption have been proven throughout different performance tests.
Identification of Historical Veziragasi Aqueduct Using the Operational Modal Analysis
Authors: Ercan E. , Nuhoglu A.
Published: January 2014

This paper describes the results of a model updating study conducted on a historical aqueduct, called Veziragasi, in Turkey. The output-only modal identification results obtained from ambient vibration measurements of the structure were used to update a finite element model of the structure. For the purposes of developing a solid model of the structure, the dimensions of the structure, defects, and material degradations in the structure were determined in detail by making a measurement survey. For evaluation of the material properties of the structure, nondestructive and destructive testing methods were applied. The modal analysis of the structure was calculated by FEM. Then, a nondestructive dynamic test as well as operational modal analysis was carried out and dynamic properties were extracted. The natural frequencies and corresponding mode shapes were determined from both theoretical and experimental modal analyses and compared with each other. A good harmony was attained between mode shapes, but there were some differences between natural frequencies. The sources of the differences were introduced and the FEM model was updated by changing material parameters and boundary conditions. Finally, the real analytical model of the aqueduct was put forward and the results were discussed.
Seismicity Pattern Changes before theM= 4.8 Aeolian Archipelago (Italy) Earthquake of August 16, 2010
Authors: Gambino Salvatore , Laudani Antonino , Mangiagli Salvatore
Published: January 2014

We investigated the seismicity patterns associated with anM=4.8earthquake recorded in the Aeolian Archipelago on 16, August, 2010, by means of the region-time-length (RTL) algorithm. This earthquake triggered landslides at Lipari; a rock fall on the flanks of the Vulcano, Lipari, and Salina islands, and some damages to the village of Lipari. The RTL algorithm is widely used for investigating precursory seismicity changes before large and moderate earthquakes. We examined both the spatial and temporal characteristics of seismicity changes in the Aeolian Archipelago region before theM=4.8earthquake. The results obtained reveal 6-7 months of seismic quiescence which started about 15 months before the earthquake. The spatial distribution shows an extensive area characterized by seismic quiescence that suggests a relationship between quiescence and the Aeolian Archipelago regional tectonics.
New Product Development in an Emerging Economy: Analysing the Role of Supplier Involvement Practices by Using Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo Technique
Authors: Kanapathy Kanagi , Khong Kok Wei , Dekkers Rob
Published: January 2014

The research question is whether the positive relationship found between supplier involvement practices and new product development performances in developed economies also holds in emerging economies. The role of supplier involvement practices in new product development performance is yet to be substantially investigated in the emerging economies (other than China). This premise was examined by distributing a survey instrument (Jayaram’s (2008) published survey instrument that has been utilised in developed economies) to Malaysian manufacturing companies. To gauge the relationship between the supplier involvement practices and new product development (NPD) project performance of 146 companies, structural equation modelling was adopted. Our findings prove that supplier involvement practices have a significant positive impact on NPD project performance in an emerging economy with respect to quality objectives, design objectives, cost objectives, and “time-to-market” objectives. Further analysis using the Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm, yielding a more credible and feasible differentiation, confirmed these results (even in the case of an emerging economy) and indicated that these practices have a 28% impact on variance of NPD project performance. This considerable effect implies that supplier involvement is a must have, although further research is needed to identify the contingencies for its practices.
A Methodological Evaluation of Volumetric Measurement Techniques including Three-Dimensional Imaging in Breast Surgery
Authors: Hoeffelin H. , Jacquemin D. , Defaweux V. , Nizet J L.
Published: January 2014

Breast surgery currently remains very subjective and each intervention depends on the ability and experience of the operator. To date, no objective measurement of this anatomical region can codify surgery. In this light, we wanted to compare and validate a new technique for 3D scanning (LifeViz 3D) and its clinical application. We tested the use of the 3D LifeViz system (Quantificare) to perform volumetric calculations in various settings (in situ in cadaveric dissection, of control prostheses, and in clinical patients) and we compared this system to other techniques (CT scanning and Archimedes’ principle) under the same conditions. We were able to identify the benefits (feasibility, safety, portability, and low patient stress) and limitations (underestimation of the in situ volume, subjectivity of contouring, and patient selection) of the LifeViz 3D system, concluding that the results are comparable with other measurement techniques. The prospects of this technology seem promising in numerous applications in clinical practice to limit the subjectivity of breast surgery.
Antidiabetic Effects of Carassius auratus Complex Formula in High Fat Diet Combined Streptozotocin‐Induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Wang Zhi-Hong , Hsu Cheng-Chin , Lin Hui-Hsuan , Chen Jing-Hsien
Published: January 2014

Carassius auratus complex formula, including Carassius auratus, Rhizoma dioscoreae, Lycium chinense, and Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch, is a combination prescription of traditional Chinese medicine, which has always been used to treat diabetes mellitus in ancient China. In this study, we provided experimental evidence for the use of Carassius auratus complex formula in the treatment of high fat diet combined streptozotocin‐ (STZ‐) induced type 2 diabetes. Carassius auratus complex formula aqueous extract was prepared and the effects of it on blood glucose, serum insulin, adipose tissue weight, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), total cholesterol, and triglyceride (TG) levels in mice were measured. Moreover, adiponectin, TG synthesis related gene expressions, and the inhibitory effect of aldose reductase (AR) were performed to evaluate its antidiabetic effects. After the 8‐week treatment, blood glucose, insulin levels, and adipose tissue weight were significantly decreased. OGTT and HOMA‐IR index showed improved glucose tolerance. It could also lower plasma TG, TC, and liver TG levels. Furthermore, Carassius auratus complex formula could inhibit the activity of AR and restore adiponectin expression in serum. Based on these findings, it is suggested that Carassius auratus complex formula possesses potent anti‐diabetic effects on high fat diet combined STZ‐induced diabetic mice.
Dual Effect of Exogenous Nitric Oxide on Neuronal Excitability in Rat Substantia Gelatinosa Neurons
Authors: Park A-Reum , Lee Hae In , Semjid Dejidnorov , Kim Do Kyung , Chun Sang Woo
Published: January 2014

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important signaling molecule involved in nociceptive transmission. It can induce analgesic and hyperalgesic effects in the central nervous system. In this study, patch-clamp recording was used to investigate the effect of NO on neuronal excitability in substantia gelatinosa (SG) neurons of the spinal cord. Different concentrations of sodium nitroprusside (SNP; NO donor) induced a dual effect on the excitability of neuronal membrane: 1 mM of SNP evoked membrane hyperpolarization and an outward current, whereas 10 µM induced depolarization of the membrane and an inward current. These effects were prevented by hemoglobin and 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide potassium salt (c-PTIO) (NO scavengers), phenylN-tert-butylnitrone (PBN; nonspecific reactive oxygen species scavenger), and through inhibition of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC). Pretreatment with n-ethylmaleimide (NEM; thiol-alkylating agent) also decreased effects of both 1 mM and 10 µM SNP, suggesting that these responses were mediated by direct S-nitrosylation. Charybdotoxin (CTX) and tetraethylammonium (TEA) (large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+channel blockers) and glybenclamide (ATP-sensitive K+channel blocker) decreased SNP-induced hyperpolarization. La3+(nonspecific cation channel blocker), but not Cs+(hyperpolarization-activated K+channel blocker), blocked SNP-induced membrane depolarization. In conclusion, NO dually affects neuronal excitability in a concentration-dependent manner via modification of various K+channels.
Biodegradation of Spilled Diesel Fuel in Agricultural Soil: Effect of Humates, Zeolite, and Bioaugmentation
Authors: Kuráň Pavel , Trögl Josef , Nováková Jana , Pilařová Věra , Dáňová Petra , Pavlorková Jana , Kozler Josef , Novák František , Popelka Jan
Published: January 2014

Possible enhancement of biodegradation of petroleum hydrocarbons in agricultural soil after tank truck accident (~5000 mg/kg dry soil initial concentration) by bioaugmentation of diesel degradingPseudomonas fluorescensstrain and addition of abiotic additives (humates, zeolite) was studied in a 9-month pot experiment. The biodegradation process was followed by means of analytical parameters (hydrocarbon index expressed as content of C10–C40aliphatic hydrocarbons, ratio pristane/C17, and total organic carbon content) and characterization of soil microbial community (content of phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA) as an indicator of living microbial biomass, respiration, and dehydrogenase activity). The concentration of petroleum hydrocarbons (C10–C40) was successfully reduced by~60% in all 15 experiment variants. The bioaugmentation resulted in faster hydrocarbon elimination. On the contrary, the addition of humates and zeolite caused only a negligible increase in the degradation rate. These factors, however, affected significantly the amount of PLFA. The humates caused significantly faster increase of the total PLFA suggesting improvement of the soil microenvironment. Zeolite caused significantly slower increase of the total PLFA; nevertheless it aided in homogenization of the soil. Comparison of microbial activities and total PLFA revealed that only a small fraction of autochthonous microbes took part in the biodegradation which confirms that bioaugmentation was the most important treatment.
Improving Rutting Resistance of Pavement Structures Using Geosynthetics: An Overview
Authors: Mirzapour Mounes Sina , Karim Mohamed Rehan , Khodaii Ali , Almasi Mohammad Hadi
Published: January 2014

A pavement structure consists of several layers for the primary purpose of transmitting and distributing traffic loads to the subgrade. Rutting is one form of pavement distresses that may influence the performance of road pavements. Geosynthetics is one type of synthetic materials utilized for improving the performance of pavements against rutting. Various studies have been conducted on using different geosynthetic materials in pavement structures by different researchers. One of the practices is a reinforcing material in asphalt pavements. This paper intends to present and discuss the discoveries from some of the studies on utilizing geosynthetics in flexible pavements as reinforcement against permanent deformation (rutting).
Association between Hypertension and Periodontitis: Possible Mechanisms
Authors: Leong Xin-Fang , Ng Chun-Yi , Badiah Baharin , Das Srijit
Published: January 2014

This review is to examine the current literatures on the relationship between periodontitis and hypertension as well as to explore the possible biological pathways underlying the linkage between these health conditions. Hypertension is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction are among the critical components in the development of hypertension. Inflammation has received much attention recently and may contribute to a pivotal role in hypertension. Periodontitis, a chronic low-grade inflammation of gingival tissue, has been linked to endothelial dysfunction, with blood pressure elevation and increased mortality risk in hypertensive patients. Inflammatory biomarkers are increased in hypertensive patients with periodontitis. Over the years, various researches have been performed to evaluate the involvement of periodontitis in the initiation and progression of hypertension. Many cross-sectional studies documented an association between hypertension and periodontitis. However, more well-designed prospective population trials need to be carried out to ascertain the role of periodontitis in hypertension.