bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Game Theoretic Approaches to Weight Assignments in Data Envelopment Analysis Problems
Authors: Sekine Satoru , Fu Jing , Muto Shigeo
Published: April 2014

This paper deals with the problem of fairly allocating a certain amount of divisible goods or burdens among individuals or organizations in the multicriteria environment. It is analyzed within the framework of data envelopment analysis (DEA). We improve the game proposed by Nakabayashi and Tone (2006) and develop an alternative scheme by reassigning the total weight or power for the coalition members. The solutions and equilibria of the new DEA game proposed in this paper are also studied.
EarlyTrypanosoma cruziInfection Reprograms Human Epithelial Cells
Authors: Chiribao María Laura , Libisch Gabriela , Parodi-Talice Adriana , Robello Carlos
Published: April 2014

Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, has the peculiarity, when compared with other intracellular parasites, that it is able to invade almost any type of cell. This property makes Chagas a complex parasitic disease in terms of prophylaxis and therapeutics. The identification of key host cellular factors that play a role in theT. cruziinvasion is important for the understanding of disease pathogenesis. In Chagas disease, most of the focus is on the response of macrophages and cardiomyocytes, since they are responsible for host defenses and cardiac lesions, respectively. In the present work, we studied the early response to infection ofT. cruziin human epithelial cells, which constitute the first barrier for establishment of infection. These studies identified up to 1700 significantly altered genes regulated by the immediate infection. The global analysis indicates that cells are literally reprogrammed byT. cruzi, which affects cellular stress responses (neutrophil chemotaxis, DNA damage response), a great number of transcription factors (including the majority of NFκB family members), and host metabolism (cholesterol, fatty acids, and phospholipids). These results raise the possibility that early host cell reprogramming is exploited by the parasite to establish the initial infection and posterior systemic dissemination.
Arsenate Removal from Water by Simultaneous Green Tea Nano-Zerovalent Iron and Ultrasonic Wave
Authors: Ashouri Abolfazl , Anvaripour Bagher , Motavassel Mohsen , Jaafarzadeh Haghighifard Nematolah
Published: April 2014

Nano-zerovalent iron (NZVI) was synthesized using green tea (GT) extract and it was used as an adsorbent in arsenate removal from water. FESEM, PSD, and XRD employed in the examination of particles and their characterizations. Results showed that the particles were spherical lumped together in a texture structure with sizes ranging from 20 to 70 nanometers. All experiments were accomplished in a batch mode. Adsorption isotherm, adsorption kinetics, and the effects of pH, GT-NZVI dosage, and ultrasonic wave power on arsenate separation capabilities were explored. The results suggested that the arsenate removal efficiency enhanced with increasing GT-NZVI dosage. Increase in pH from 3 to approximately 6 leads to increase in the removal efficiency; however, increasing the pH further decreased the removal efficiency. The effect of ultrasonic power on As(V) removal was dependent on pH and NZVI dosages. The positive effect was more pronounced at low adsorbent dosages and acidic solution in which the As(V) removal efficiency improved with increasing ultrasonic power. However, in highly alkali solutions As(V) removal efficiency reduced with increasing ultrasonic power. The adsorption kinetics followed second order, while the adsorption isotherm was fitted best with Langmuir equation at a maximum capacity of 34.2 mg g−1.
Dried Fruit of theLuffaSponge as a Source of Chitin for Applications as Skin Substitutes
Authors: Jiang Ping-Lun , Chien Mei-Yin , Sheu Ming-Thau , Huang Yi-You , Chen Meng-Hsun , Su Ching-Hua , Liu Der-Zen
Published: April 2014

LUFFACHITINobtained from the residue of the sponge-like dried fruit ofLuffa aegyptiacawas developed as a weavable skin substitute in this study. A chemical analysis revealed thatLUFFACHITINwas composed of a copolymer containing N-acetyl-glucosamine (~40%) as a major monomer with a filamentary structure as demonstrated by both optical and scanning electron microscopy. The pulp-like white residue of the sponge-like dried fruit ofLuffa aegyptiacaafter treatment was then woven into a thin, porous membrane by filtration and lyophilization as a skin substitute for conducting wound-healing study on rats. The results indicated that theLUFFACHITINmembrane showed significant wound-healing enhancement (25 days to complete healing) compared to cotton gauze (>30 days), but not inferior to that ofSACCHACHITIN. Furthermore, theLUFFACHITINmembrane had advantages of having a high yield, better physical properties for fabrication, and a more attractive appearance.
On the Sixth Power Mean Value of the Generalized Three-Term Exponential Sums
Authors: Yu Yahui , Zhang Wenpeng
Published: April 2014

The main purpose of this paper is using the estimate for trigonometric sums and the properties of the congruence equations to study the computational problem of one kind sixth power mean value of the generalized three-term exponential sums and give an exact computational formula for it.
Improving the Diagnosis of Bloodstream Infections: PCR Coupled with Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Jordana-Lluch Elena , Giménez Montserrat , Quesada M. Dolores , Ausina Vicente , Martró Elisa
Published: April 2014

The reference method for the diagnosis of bloodstream infections is blood culture followed by biochemical identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing of the isolated pathogen. This process requires 48 to 72 hours. The rapid administration of the most appropriate antimicrobial treatment is crucial for the survival of septic patients; therefore, a rapid method that enables diagnosis directly from analysis of a blood sample without culture is needed. A recently developed platform that couples broad-range PCR amplification of pathogen DNA with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (PCR/ESI-MS) has the ability to identify virtually any microorganism from direct clinical specimens. To date, two clinical evaluations of the PCR/ESI-MS technology for the diagnosis of bloodstream infections from whole blood have been published. Here we discuss them and describe recent improvements that result in an enhanced sensitivity. Other commercially available assays for the molecular diagnosis of bloodstream infections from whole blood are also reviewed. The use of highly sensitive molecular diagnostic methods in combination with conventional procedures could substantially improve the management of septic patients.
Studies on the Anti-Inflammatory Effect and Its Mechanisms of Sophoridine
Authors: Huang Xiumei , Li Bo , Shen Lianzhong
Published: April 2014

This work is to study the anti-inflammatory effect and its mechanisms of sophoridine in vitro and in vivo. For this aim, the influences of sophoridine on several inflammatory mediators were investigated. Excessive inflammatory response in vitro model was developed by using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to stimulate the mouse peritoneal macrophages and HL-60 cells to produce IL-6 and IL-8. Carrageenin-induced mouse paw edema model was used as inflammatory response in vivo model. MTT method, ultraviolet spectrophotometric method, and radioimmunoassay were used to measure the changes of TNFα, IL-6, PGE2, and IL-8 in in vitro cell culture supernatant or in the local inflammatory exudates. The results showed that sophoridine inhibited the production of IL-8 in in vitro cell culture supernatant and inhibited the production of TNFα, PGE2, and IL-8 in the local inflammatory exudates but had no significant effects on the production of IL-6 in vitro and in vivo. It is demonstrated that sophoridine’s anti-inflammatory effect was due to its ability to inhibit the production of cytokine and inflammatory mediators.
Sliding Mode Control for Active Suspension System with Data Acquisition Delay
Authors: Alves Uiliam Nelson L. T. , Garcia José Paulo F. , Teixeira Marcelo C. M. , Garcia Saulo C. , Rodrigues Fernando B.
Published: April 2014

This paper addresses the problem of control of an active suspension system accomplished using a computer. Delay in the states due to the acquisition and transmission of data from sensors to the controller is taken into account. The proposed control strategy uses state predictors along with sliding mode control technique. Two approaches are made: a continuous‐time and a discrete‐time control. The proposed designs, continuous‐time and discrete‐time, are applied to the active suspension module simulator from Quanser. Results from computer simulations and experimental tests are analyzed to show the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Fuzzy Optimization Modeling Approach for QFD-Based New Product Design
Authors: Yang Zhihui , Chen Yizeng
Published: April 2014

Quality function deployment (QFD) is a planning and problem-solving tool for translating customer requirements (CRs) into the engineering characteristics (ECs) of a product. Owing to the typical vagueness of functional relationships in a new product, product planning is becoming more difficult under uncertainties. To tackle the vagueness or imprecision in QFD, numerous scholars have applied the fuzzy set theory to QFD and proposed various fuzzy QFD models. In this study, a fuzzy linear programming model is developed to determine the optimal level of ECs, where the objective function is the overall customer satisfaction and the cost constraint is fuzzified. Finally, we use a software product design as a numerical example, which demonstrates that the proposed methodology can help the QFD team realize the overall customer satisfaction of new products catching up with or exceeding the competitors in the target market.
Ranakinestatin-PPF from the Skin Secretion of the Fukien Gold-Striped Pond Frog,Pelophylax plancyi fukienensis: A Prototype of a Novel Class of BradykininB2Receptor Antagonist Peptide from Ranid Frogs
Authors: Ma Jie , Luo Yu , Ge Lilin , Wang Lei , Zhou Mei , Zhang Yingqi , Duan Jinao , Chen Tianbao , Shaw Chris
Published: April 2014

The defensive skin secretions of many amphibians are a rich source of bradykinins and bradykinin-related peptides (BRPs). Members of this peptide group are also common components of reptile and arthropod venoms due to their multiple biological functions that include induction of pain, effects on many smooth muscle types, and lowering systemic blood pressure. While most BRPs are bradykinin receptor agonists, some have curiously been found to be exquisite antagonists, such as the maximakinin gene-related peptide, kinestatin—a specific bradykinin B2-receptor antagonist from the skin of the giant fire-bellied toad,Bombina maxima. Here, we describe the identification, structural and functional characterization of a heptadecapeptide (DYTIRTRLHQGLSRKIV), named ranakinestatin-PPF, from the skin of the Chinese ranid frog,Pelophylax plancyi fukienensis, representing a prototype of a novel class of bradykinin B2-receptor specific antagonist. Using a preconstricted preparation of rat tail arterial smooth muscle, a single dose of 10−6 M of the peptide effectively inhibited the dose-dependent relaxation effect of bradykinin between 10−11 M and 10−5 M and subsequently, this effect was pharmacologically-characterized using specific bradykinin B1- (desArg-HOE140) and B2-receptor (HOE140) antagonists; the data from which demonstrated that the antagonism of the novel peptide was mediated through B2-receptors. Ranakinestatin—PPF—thus represents a prototype of an amphibian skin peptide family that functions as a bradykinin B2-receptor antagonist herein demonstrated using mammalian vascular smooth muscle.
Numerical Study on the Characteristics of Pressure Fluctuations in an Axial-Flow Water Pump
Authors: Shuai Zhi-Jun , Li Wan-You , Zhang Xiang-Yuan , Jiang Chen-Xing , Li Feng-Chen
Published: April 2014

Flow induced vibration due to the dynamics of rotor-stator interaction in an axial-flow pump is one of the most damaging vibration sources to the pump components, attached pipelines, and equipment. Three-dimensional unsteady numerical simulations were conducted on the complex turbulent flow field in an axial-flow water pump, in order to investigate the flow induced vibration problem. The shear stress transport (SST) k-ω model was employed in the numerical simulations. The fast Fourier transform technique was adopted to process the obtained fluctuating pressure signals. The characteristics of pressure fluctuations acting on the impeller were then investigated. The spectra of pressure fluctuations were predicted. The dominant frequencies at the locations of impeller inlet, impeller outlet, and impeller blade surface are all 198 Hz (4 times of the rotation frequency 49.5 Hz), which indicates that the dominant frequency is in good agreement with the blade passing frequency (BPF). The first BPF dominates the frequency spectrum for all monitoring locations inside the pump.
Quantitative Diagnosis of Colorectal Polyps by Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Wang Chen , Zhang Qinqin , Wu Xiaojing , Tang Tao , Liu Hong , Zhu S. W. , Gao Bruce Z. , Yuan X.-C.
Published: April 2014

The principal aim of this study is to investigate the scattering coefficient of colorectal polyp tissues using an optical coherence tomography (OCT) technique. It combines the existing scattering coefficient model and spectral domain OCT to achieve method of early diagnosis of colorectal polyp in hospitals. Seventeen patients were studied, and a total of 1456 data points were extracted by curve-fitting the OCT signals into a confocal single-backscattering model. The results show that the mean scattering coefficient value for colorectal polyps is 1.91 mm−1(std: ±0.54 mm−1), which is between the values for normal and malignant tissues. In addition, we studied the difference between adenomatous polyps (n=15) and inflammatory polyps (n=2) quantitatively and found that the adenomatous tissues had lower scattering coefficients than the inflammatory ones. The quantitative measurements confirmed that OCT can be used in primary diagnosis to compensate for the deficiencies in methods of pathological diagnosis, with a great potential for early diagnosis of tissues.
Major Histocompatibility Complex I Mediates Immunological Tolerance of the Trophoblast during Pregnancy and May Mediate Rejection during Parturition
Authors: Rapacz-Leonard Anna , Dąbrowska Małgorzata , Janowski Tomasz
Published: April 2014

During pregnancy in larger mammals, the maternal immune system must tolerate the fetus for months while resisting external infection. This tolerance is facilitated by immunological communication between the fetus and the mother, which is mediated by Major Histocompatibility Complex I (MHC I) proteins, by leukocytes, and by the cytokines secreted by the leukocytes. Fetal-maternal immunological communication also supports pregnancy by inducing physiological changes in the mother. If the mother “misunderstands” the signal sent by the fetus during pregnancy, the fetus will be miscarried or delivered preterm. Unlike any other maternal organ, the placenta can express paternal antigens. At parturition, paternal antigens are known to be expressed in cows and may be expressed in horses, possibly so that the maternal immune system will reject the placenta and help to expel it. This review compares fetal-maternal crosstalk that is mediated by the immune system in three species with pregnancies that last for nine months or longer: humans, cattle, and horses. It raises the possibility that immunological communication early in pregnancy may prepare the mother for successful expulsion of fetal membranes at parturition.
Applications of Fixed Point Theorems to Generalized Saddle Points of Bifunctions on Chain-Complete Posets
Authors: Li Jinlu , Liu Ying , Gao Hongya
Published: April 2014

We apply the extensions of the Abian-Brown fixed point theorem for set-valued mappings on chain-complete posets to examine the existence of generalized and extended saddle points of bifunctions defined on posets. We also study the generalized and extended equilibrium problems and the solvability of ordered variational inequalities on posets, which are equipped with a partial order relation and have neither an algebraic structure nor a topological structure.
Extracts and Fractions from Edible Roots of Sechium edule (Jacq.) Sw. with Antihypertensive Activity
Authors: Lombardo-Earl Galia , Roman-Ramos Rubén , Zamilpa Alejandro , Herrera-Ruiz Maribel , Rosas-Salgado Gabriela , Tortoriello Jaime , Jiménez-Ferrer Enrique
Published: April 2014

Sechium edule is traditionally used in Mexico as a therapeutic resource against renal diseases and to control high blood pressure. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the antihypertensive effect of the hydroalcoholic extract obtained from the roots of this plant, including its fractions and subfractions, on different hypertension models induced with angiotensin II (AG II). The hydroalcoholic extract was tested on an in vitro study of isolated aorta rings denuded of endothelial cells, using AG II as the agonist; this assay proved the vasorelaxant effect of this extract. Vagotomized rats were administered different doses of AG II as well as the Hydroalcoholic extract, which reduced blood pressure in 30 mmHg approximately; subsequently this extract was separated into two fractions (acetone and methanol) which were evaluated in the acute hypertension mouse model induced with AG II, where the acetone fraction was identified as the most effective one and was subsequently subfractioned using an open chromatographic column packed with silica gel. The subfractions were also evaluated in the acute hypertension model. Finally, the extract, fraction, and active subfraction were analyzed by MS‐PDA‐HPLC, identifying cinnamic derivative compounds like cinnamic acid methyl ester.
Preablation Stimulated Thyroglobulin/TSH Ratio as a Predictor of Successful I131Remnant Ablation in Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Cancer following Total Thyroidectomy
Authors: Zubair Hussain Syed , Zaman Maseeh uz , Malik Sarwar , Ram Nanik , Asghar Ali , Rabbani Unaib , Aftab Nida , Islam Najmul
Published: April 2014

Background. About 90% of thyroid cancers are differentiated thyroid cancers. Standard treatment is total thyroidectomy followed by radioactive I131remnant ablation and TSH suppression with thyroxine. Unsuccessful ablation drastically affects the prognosis of patients with DTC particularly high risk individuals; therefore, identifying the factors that affect the success of ablation is important in the management of patients with DTC. sTg is a good predictor of successful ablation in DTC. Its levels can be influenced by tumor staging and TSH values, as well as other factors. Therefore, we did this study using TSH to correct the predictive value of sTg in success of RRA.Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 75 patients with DTC, who underwent total thyroidectomy followed by RRA and TSH suppression.Results. Preablation sTg and sTg/TSH ratio are significantly associated with ablation outcome. Cutoff value for sTg to predict successful and unsuccessful ablation was 18 ng/mL with 76.7% sensitivity and 79.1% specificity, while for sTg/TSH cutoff was 0.35 with 81.4% sensitivity and 81.5% specificity (P<0.001). Association was stronger for sTg/TSH ratio with adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 11.64 (2.43–55.61) than for sTg with AOR 5.42 (1.18–24.88).Conclusions. Preablation sTg/TSH ratio can be considered as better predictor of ablation outcome than sTg, tumor size, and capsular invasion.
Fabrication of Gear Having Functionally Graded Properties by Direct Laser Melting Process
Authors: Han Sang-Wook , Ji Won-Jong , Moon Young-Hoon
Published: April 2014

Functionally graded properties are characterized by the variation in composition and structure gradually over volume, resulting in corresponding changes in the properties of the material. Direct laser melting (DLM) process is a kind of prototyping process whereby a 3D part is built layerwise by melting the metal powder with laser scanning. DLM can directly build full-density and high-performance complex metal parts from CAD solid model without using any molds and tools. The aim of the study is to demonstrate the possibility to produce functionally graded properties in gear through the direct laser melting of compositionally selected metallic powders. Properties of manufactured parts depend strongly on each single laser-melted track. Therefore, effects of the processing parameters such as scanning speed and laser power on single tracks formation are explored. For the fabrication of gear, building direction and hatch angle have been precisely controlled. Hardness test and EDX analysis were carried out on cross-section of fabricated gear to characterize functionally graded properties. From the analysis, functionally graded properties can be successfully obtained by DLM of selected metallic powders having different compositions.
The Error Estimates of the Interpolating Element‐Free Galerkin Method for Two‐Point Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Wang J. F. , Hao S. Y. , Cheng Y. M.
Published: April 2014

The interpolating moving least‐squares (IMLS) method is discussed in detail, and a simpler formula of the shape function of the IMLS method is obtained. Then, based on the IMLS method and the Galerkin weak form, an interpolating element‐free Galerkin (IEFG) method for two‐point boundary value problems is presented. The IEFG method has high computing speed and precision. Then error analysis of the IEFG method for two‐point boundary value problems is presented. The convergence rates of the numerical solution and its derivatives of the IEFG method are presented. The theories show that, if the original solution is sufficiently smooth and the order of the basis functions is big enough, the solution of the IEFG method and its derivatives are convergent to the exact solutions in terms of the maximum radius of the domains of influence of nodes. For the purpose of demonstration, two selected numerical examples are given to confirm the theories.
The Combination of Carmustine Wafers and Fotemustine in Recurrent Glioblastoma Patients: A Monoinstitutional Experience
Authors: Lombardi Giuseppe , Della Puppa Alessandro , Zustovich Fable , Pambuku Ardi , Farina Patrizia , Fiduccia Pasquale , Roma Anna , Zagonel Vittorina
Published: April 2014

Background. To date, there is no standard treatment for recurrent glioblastoma. We analyzed the feasibility of second surgery plus carmustine wafers followed by intravenous fotemustine.Methods. Retrospectively, we analyzed patients with recurrent glioblastoma treated with this multimodal strategy.Results. Twenty-four patients were analyzed. The median age was 53.6; all patients had KPS between 90 and 100; 19 patients (79%) performed a gross total resection > 98% and 5 (21%) a gross total resection > 90%. The median progression-free survival from second surgery was 6 months (95% CI 3.9–8.05) and the median OS was 14 months (95% CI 11.1–16.8 months). Toxicity was predominantly haematological: 5 patients (21%) experienced grade 3-4 thrombocytopenia and 3 patients (12%) grade 3-4 leukopenia.Conclusion. This multimodal strategy may be feasible in patients with recurrent glioblastoma, in particular, for patients in good clinical conditions.
Development of a Semielliptical Partial Ground Plane Antenna for RFID and GSM-900
Authors: Zaman M. R. , Azim R. , Misran N. , Asillam M. F. , Islam T.
Published: April 2014

A novel compact broadband patch antenna for UHF (ultrahigh frequency), RFID (radio frequency identification), and GSM-900 (global system for mobile communications) band is shown in this paper. The antenna is composed of an ellipse shape annular ring at the patch. The ground plane of the planar antenna is modified with a semiellipse shape slot. The structure can generate substantial amount of current at the feed-line. The geometry of the antenna is evaluated by using HFSS simulation software and deliberated across the paper. Parametric study is exhibited to delineate the response change of the antenna. The antenna has a physical width of 0.24 λand length of 0.3 λ. It covers a frequency starting from 0.9 GHz to 1.08 GHz. A fractional bandwidth of 18.2% has been achieved from 0.9 GHz till 1.08 GHz. An average gain of 5.5 dBi is achieved at the resonance frequency. The simulated and measured results have good agreement.
A Novel Hybrid Self-Adaptive Bat Algorithm
Authors: Fister Iztok , Fong Simon , Brest Janez , Fister Iztok
Published: April 2014

Nature-inspired algorithms attract many researchers worldwide for solving the hardest optimization problems. One of the newest members of this extensive family is the bat algorithm. To date, many variants of this algorithm have emerged for solving continuous as well as combinatorial problems. One of the more promising variants, a self-adaptive bat algorithm, has recently been proposed that enables a self-adaptation of its control parameters. In this paper, we have hybridized this algorithm using different DE strategies and applied these as a local search heuristics for improving the current best solution directing the swarm of a solution towards the better regions within a search space. The results of exhaustive experiments were promising and have encouraged us to invest more efforts into developing in this direction.
Analyzing the Anomalous Dipole Moment Type Couplings of Heavy Quarks with FCNC Interactions at the CLIC
Authors: Tasci A. T. , Senol A. , Verep C.
Published: April 2014

We examine both anomalous magnetic and dipole moment type couplings of a heavy quark via its single production with subsequent dominant standard model decay modes at the compact linear collider (CLIC). The signal and background cross sections are analyzed for heavy quark masses 600 and 700 GeV. We make the analysis to delimitate these couplings as well as to find the attainable integrated luminosities for3σobservation limit.
Multichannel Broadcast Based on Home Channel for Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks
Authors: Zeng Fanzi , Tang Yuting , Pu Jianjie
Published: April 2014

Considering the limited resources and the dynamic spectrum distribution in the cognitive radio sensor networks (CRSN), a half-duplex Multichannel broadcast protocol for CRSN is presented based on the home channel. This protocol maintains the networks topology only through the home channel, so there is no need for the public channel to transmit the control information and no need for the synchronization. After network initialization, node broadcasts data via home channel in half-duplex transmission way. The simulation results show that, compared with complete broadcast, the proposed protocol effectively reduces broadcast delay and overhead.
Development and Validation of a Novel RP-HPLC Method for Estimation of Losartan Potassium in Dissolution Samples of Immediate and Sustained Release Tablets
Authors: Pawar Harshal A. , Lalitha K. G.
Published: April 2014

A simple, rapid, selective, and reproducible reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) method has been developed and validated for the estimation of Losartan potassium in dissolution samples of Losartan potassium immediate and sustained release tablets. Analysis was performed on an Agilent, Zorbax Eclipse XDB C18 column (150 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) with the mobile phase consisting of orthophosphoric acid (0.1% v/v)—acetonitrile (55 : 45, v/v) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. UV detection was performed at 225 nm and the retention time for Losartan was about 2.6 minutes. The calibration curve was linear (correlation coefficient = 0.999) in the selected range of analyte. The optimized dissolution conditions include the USP apparatus 2 at a paddle rotation rate of 50 rpm and 900 mL of pH 6.8 phosphate buffer as dissolution medium, at 37.0±0.5∘C. The method was validated for precision, linearity, specificity, accuracy, limit of quantitation, and ruggedness. The system suitability parameters, such as theoretical plate, tailing factor and relative standard deviation (RSD) between five standard replicates, were well within the limits. The stability result shows that the drug is stable in the prescribed dissolution medium.
Microparticles: A New Perspective in Central Nervous System Disorders
Authors: Schindler Stephanie M. , Little Jonathan P. , Klegeris Andis
Published: April 2014

Microparticles (MPs) are a heterogeneous population of small cell-derived vesicles, ranging in size from 0.1 to 1 μm. They contain a variety of bioactive molecules, including proteins, biolipids, and nucleic acids, which can be transferred between cells without direct cell-to-cell contact. Consequently, MPs represent a novel form of intercellular communication, which could play a role in both physiological and pathological processes. Growing evidence indicates that circulating MPs contribute to the development of cancer, inflammation, and autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases. Most cell types of the central nervous system (CNS) have also been shown to release MPs, which could be important for neurodevelopment, CNS maintenance, and pathologies. In disease, levels of certain MPs appear elevated; therefore, they may serve as biomarkers allowing for the development of new diagnostic tools for detecting the early stages of CNS pathologies. Quantification and characterization of MPs could also provide useful information for making decisions on treatment options and for monitoring success of therapies, particularly for such difficult-to-treat diseases as cerebral malaria, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Overall, studies on MPs in the CNS represent a novel area of research, which promises to expand the knowledge on the mechanisms governing some of the physiological and pathophysiological processes of the CNS.
The Female Pattern Hair Loss: Review of Etiopathogenesis and Diagnosis
Authors: Vujovic Anja , Del Marmol Véronique
Published: April 2014

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is the most common hair loss disorder in women. Initial signs may develop during teenage years leading to a progressive hair loss with a characteristic pattern distribution. The condition is characterized by progressive replacement of terminal hair follicles over the frontal and vertex regions by miniaturized follicles, that leads progressively to a visible reduction in hair density. Women diagnosed with FPHL may undergo significant impairment of quality of life. FPHL diagnosis is mostly clinical. Depending on patient history and clinical evaluation, further diagnostic testing may be useful. The purpose of the paper is to review the current knowledge about epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis of FPHL.
The Immune Response ofAcanthaster plancito Oxbile Injections and Antibiotic Treatment
Authors: Grand Alexandra , Pratchett Morgan , Rivera-Posada Jairo
Published: April 2014

Bile salts have been recently identified as a rapid and effective method for killingA. planci. However the mechanistic basis of this new control method is poorly understood. This study explored the immune response(s) ofA. planciand/or pathogenesis resulting from the injection of bile salts. To account for the possible role of pathogenesis in causing high rates of mortality,A. planciwas treated with antibiotics to minimise the incidence and severity of bacterial infections. No significant difference in the time to death between groups with and without antibiotic treatment was reported, suggesting a limited bacterial effect on the induction of disease and death of injected sea stars. The number of circulating coelomocytes increased significantly after injection confirming the induction of a strong immune response. Five types of circulating cells were identified: (1) phagocytes, (2) small hyaline cells, (3) colourless spherule cells, (4) red spherule cells, and (5) fusiform cells. Histological analysis ofA. plancitissues showed that the mechanism leading to rapid mortality is related to necrosis and/or apoptosis, rather than transmissible disease. Therefore, bile salts are an effective and safe method for killing crown-of-thorns sea starin situ.
Syntheses, Characterization, Thermal, and Antimicrobial Studies of Lanthanum(III) Tolyl/Benzyldithiocarbonates
Authors: Andotra Savit , Kalgotra Nidhi , Pandey Sushil K.
Published: April 2014

Lanthanum(III) tris(O-tolyl/benzyldithiocarbonates), [La(ROCS2)] (R =o-,m-,p-CH3C6H4and C6H5CH2), were isolated as yellow solid by the reaction of LaCl3·7H2O with sodium salt of tolyl/benzyldithiocarbonates, ROCS2Na (R =o-,m-,p-CH3C6H4and C6H5CH2), in methanol under anhydrous conditions in 1 : 3 molar ratio. These complexes have formed adducts with nitrogen and phosphorus donor molecules by straightforward reaction of these complexes with donor ligands, which have the composition of the type [La(ROCS2)3·nL] (where n = 2, L = NC5H5or P(C6H5)3and n = 1, L = N2C12H8or N2C10H8). Elemental analyses, mass, IR, TGA, and heteronuclear NMR (1H,13C and31P) spectroscopic studies indicated bidentate mode of bonding by dithiocarbonate ligands leading to hexacoordinated and octacoordinated geometry around the lanthanum atom. Antimicrobial (antifungal and antibacterial) activity of the free ligands and some of the complexes have also been investigated which exhibited significantly more activity for the complexes than the free ligands.
On the Identification of Coupled Pitch and Heave Motions Using Opposition‐Based Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Dai Yuntao , Liu Liqiang , Feng Shanshan
Published: April 2014

A mathematical model must be established to study the motions of ships in order to control them effectively. An assessment of the model depends on the accuracy of hydrodynamic parameters. An algorithm for the parameter identification of the coupled pitch and heave motions in ships is, thus, put forward in this paper. The algorithm proposed is based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) and the opposition‐based learning theory known as opposition‐based particle swarm optimization (OPSO). A definition of the opposition‐based learning algorithm is given first of all, with ideas on how to improve this algorithm and its process being presented next. Secondly, the design of the parameter identification algorithm is put forward, modeling the disturbing force and disturbing moment of the identification system and the output parameters of the identification system. Then, the problem involving the hydrodynamic parameters of motions is identified and the coupled pitch and heave motions of a ship described as an optimization problem with constraints. Finally, the numerical simulations of different sea conditions with unknown parameters are carried out using the PSO and OPSO algorithms. The simulation results show that the OPSO algorithm is relatively stable in terms of the hydrodynamic parameters identification of the coupled pitch and heave motions.
Therapeutic Potential of MicroRNA: A New Target to Treat Intrahepatic Portal Hypertension?
Authors: Guo Can-Jie , Pan Qin , Xiong Hua , Qiao Yu-Qi , Bian Zhao-Lian , Zhong Wei , Sheng Li , Li Hai , Shen Lei , Hua Jing , Ma Xiong
Published: April 2014

Intrahepatic portal hypertension accounts for most of the morbidity and mortality encountered in patients with liver cirrhosis, due to increased portal inflow and intrahepatic vascular resistance. Most treatments have focused only on portal inflow or vascular resistance. However, miRNA multitarget regulation therapy may potentially intervene in these two processes for therapeutic benefit in cirrhosis and portal hypertension. This review presents an overview of the most recent knowledge of and future possibilities for the use of miRNA therapy. The benefits of this therapeutic modality—which is poorly applied in the clinical setting—are still uncertain. Increasing the knowledge and current understanding of the roles of miRNAs in the development of intrahepatic portal hypertension and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) functions, as well as their potential as novel drug targets, is critical.
Impact of Clipping versus Coiling on Postoperative Hemodynamics and Pulmonary Edema after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Horie Nobutaka , Iwaasa Mitsutoshi , Isotani Eiji , Ishizaka Shunsuke , Inoue Tooru , Nagata Izumi
Published: April 2014

Volume management is critical for assessment of cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). This multicenter prospective cohort study compared the impact of surgical clipping versus endovascular coiling on postoperative hemodynamics and pulmonary edema in patients with SAH. Hemodynamic parameters were measured for 14 days using a transpulmonary thermodilution system. The study included 202 patients, including 160 who underwent clipping and 42 who underwent coiling. There were no differences in global ejection fraction (GEF), cardiac index, systemic vascular resistance index, or global end-diastolic volume index between the clipping and coiling groups in the early period. However, extravascular lung water index (EVLWI) and pulmonary vascular permeability index (PVPI) were significantly higher in the clipping group in the vasospasm period. Postoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) level was higher in the clipping group and was significantly correlated with postoperative brain natriuretic peptide level. Multivariate analysis found that PVPI and GEF were independently associated with high EVLWI in the early period, suggesting cardiogenic edema, and that CRP and PVPI, but not GEF, were independently associated with high EVLWI in the vasospasm period, suggesting noncardiogenic edema. In conclusion, clipping affects postoperative CRP level and may thereby increase noncardiogenic pulmonary edema in the vasospasm period. His trial is registered with University Hospital Medical Information NetworkUMIN000003794.
Hierarchical Agent-Based Integrated Modelling Approach for Microgrids with Adoption of EVs and HRES
Authors: Han Peng , Wang Jinkuan , Li Yan , Han Yinghua
Published: April 2014

The large adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid renewable energy systems (HRESs), and the increasing of the loads shall bring significant challenges to the microgrid. The methodology to model microgrid with high EVs and HRESs penetrations is the key to EVs adoption assessment and optimized HRESs deployment. However, considering the complex interactions of the microgrid containing massive EVs and HRESs, any previous single modelling approaches are insufficient. Therefore in this paper, the methodology named Hierarchical Agent-based Integrated Modelling Approach (HAIMA) is proposed. With the effective integration of the agent-based modelling with other advanced modelling approaches, the proposed approach theoretically contributes to a new microgrid model hierarchically constituted by microgrid management layer, component layer, and event layer. Then the HAIMA further links the key parameters and interconnects them to achieve the interactions of the whole model. Furthermore, HAIMA practically contributes to a comprehensive microgrid operation system, through which the assessment of the proposed model and the impact of the EVs adoption are achieved. Simulations show that the proposed HAIMA methodology will be beneficial for the microgrid study and EV’s operation assessment and shall be further utilized for the energy management, electricity consumption prediction, the EV scheduling control, and HRES deployment optimization.
A Two-Stage Wind Grid Inverter with Boost Converter
Authors: Che Yanbo , Zhang Wen , Ge Leijiao , Zhang Jijie
Published: April 2014

At present, the conversion efficiency of commercial small wind grid inverter is low, and, in case of low wind speed, the wind energy cannot be used efficiently. In order to resolve this problem, it is necessary to improve the topological structure and control strategy, and design a new small wind grid inverter. In this paper, we apply a two-voltage stage topology with boost converter. The boost circuit is to achieve the maximum power output of the wind energy by the segmented regulation, while the improved inverter topology realizes the overall system function with the former stage circuit. The experimental results show that the new wind grid inverter has superior performance in the low wind speed, and has the high quality energy output. This research has an important practical significance to improve the utilization of renewable energy.
Study of Magnetic Property of Sn Doped Ni-Zn-Fe Nanoparticles
Authors: Tewari B. S. , Dhyani Archana , Joshi S. K. , Dubey Santosh , Pandey Kailash
Published: April 2014

The Ni0.6+xZn0.4SnxFe2-2xO4 (x=0.00 to 0.04) samples were prepared by solution route technique. These samples were characterized by XRD and EPR spectra at X-band frequency (~9.2 GHz). The XRD spectra of these ferrites confirm the formation of spinel structure. The average particle size calculated by using Scherrer’s formula was found to be of the order of 24.7 nm. The EPR spectra of these ferrites are mainly due to Fe3+ ions. Fe2+ ions have very short spin-lattice relaxation time and therefore EPR spectra of Fe2+ could be observed only at very low temperature. This fact is also supported by the isomer shift values of these ferrites obtained from Mössbauer spectroscopy. The variation of geff and ΔHPP with Sn4+ concentration is attributed to the variation of superexchange interaction. Moreover in this system the dominant process of relaxation is the spin lattice relaxation rather than the spin-spin interaction.
Autophagy in Macrophages: Impacting Inflammation and Bacterial Infection
Authors: Vural Ali , Kehrl John H.
Published: April 2014

Macrophages are on the front line of host defense. They possess an array of germline-encoded pattern recognition receptors/sensors (PRRs) that recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and which activate downstream effectors/pathways to help mediate innate immune responses and host defense. Innate immune responses include the rapid induction of transcriptional networks that trigger the production of cytokines, chemokines, and cytotoxic molecules; the mobilization of cells including neutrophils and other leukocytes; the engulfment of pathogens by phagocytosis and their delivery to lysosome for degradation; and the induction of autophagy. Autophagy is a catabolic process that normally maintains cellular homeostasis in a lysosome-dependent manner, but it also functions as a cytoprotective response that intersects with a variety of general stress-response pathways. This review focuses on the intimately linked molecular mechanisms that help govern the autophagic pathway and macrophage innate immune responses.
Outer Electrospun Polycaprolactone Shell Induces Massive Foreign Body Reaction and Impairs Axonal Regeneration through 3D Multichannel Chitosan Nerve Guides
Authors: Duda Sven , Dreyer Lutz , Behrens Peter , Wienecke Soenke , Chakradeo Tanmay , Glasmacher Birgit , Haastert-Talini Kirsten
Published: April 2014

We report on the performance of composite nerve grafts with an inner 3D multichannel porous chitosan core and an outer electrospun polycaprolactone shell. The inner chitosan core provided multiple guidance channels for regrowing axons. To analyze thein vivoproperties of the bare chitosan cores, we separately implanted them into an epineural sheath. The effects of both graft types on structural and functional regeneration across a 10 mm rat sciatic nerve gap were compared to autologous nerve transplantation (ANT). The mechanical biomaterial properties and the immunological impact of the grafts were assessed with histological techniques before and after transplantationin vivo. Furthermore during a 13-week examination period functional tests and electrophysiological recordings were performed and supplemented by nerve morphometry. The sheathing of the chitosan core with a polycaprolactone shell induced massive foreign body reaction and impairment of nerve regeneration. Although the isolated novel chitosan core did allow regeneration of axons in a similar size distribution as the ANT, the ANT was superior in terms of functional regeneration. We conclude that an outer polycaprolactone shell should not be used for the purpose of bioartificial nerve grafting, while 3D multichannel porous chitosan cores could be candidate scaffolds for structured nerve grafts.
Denoising of Mechanical Vibration Signals Using Quantum-Inspired Adaptive Wavelet Shrinkage
Authors: Chen Yan-long , Zhang Pei-lin , Li Bing , Wu Ding-hai
Published: April 2014

The potential application of a quantum-inspired adaptive wavelet shrinkage (QAWS) technique to mechanical vibration signals with a focus on noise reduction is studied in this paper. This quantum-inspired shrinkage algorithm combines three elements: an adaptive non-Gaussian statistical model of dual-tree complex wavelet transform (DTCWT) coefficients proposed to improve practicability of prior information, the quantum superposition introduced to describe the interscale dependencies of DTCWT coefficients, and the quantum-inspired probability of noise defined to shrink wavelet coefficients in a Bayesian framework. By combining all these elements, this signal processing scheme incorporating the DTCWT with quantum theory can both reduce noise and preserve signal details. A practical vibration signal measured from a power-shift steering transmission is utilized to evaluate the denoising ability of QAWS. Application results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Moreover, it achieves better performance than hard and soft thresholding.
Pricing Currency Option in a Mixed Fractional Brownian Motion with Jumps Environment
Authors: Shokrollahi Foad , Kılıçman Adem
Published: April 2014

A new framework for pricing the European currency option is developed in the case where the spot exchange rate fellows a mixed fractional Brownian motion with jumps. The jump mixed fractional partial differential equation is obtained. Some Greeks and properties volatility are discussed. Finally the numerical simulations illustrate that our model is flexible and easy to implement.
Durability Modeling of Environmental Barrier Coating (EBC) Using Finite Element Based Progressive Failure Analysis
Authors: Abdul-Aziz Ali , Abdi Frank , Bhatt Ramakrishna T. , Grady Joseph E.
Published: April 2014

The necessity for a protecting guard for the popular ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) is getting a lot of attention from engine manufacturers and aerospace companies. The CMC has a weight advantage over standard metallic materials and more performance benefits. However, these materials undergo degradation that typically includes coating interface oxidation as opposed to moisture induced matrix which is generally seen at a higher temperature. Additionally, other factors such as residual stresses, coating process related flaws, and casting conditions may influence the degradation of their mechanical properties. These durability considerations are being addressed by introducing highly specialized form of environmental barrier coating (EBC) that is being developed and explored in particular for high temperature applications greater than 1100°C. As a result, a novel computational simulation approach is presented to predict life for EBC/CMC specimen using the finite element method augmented with progressive failure analysis (PFA) that included durability, damage tracking, and material degradation model. The life assessment is carried out using both micromechanics and macromechanics properties. The macromechanics properties yielded a more conservative life for the CMC specimen as compared to that obtained from the micromechanics with fiber and matrix properties as input.