bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Final state interaction effects in B+→Ds*+ ϕ decay
Authors: Mehraban Hossein , Asadi Amin
Published: March 2014

In this article the exclusive decay of [Formula: see text] is calculated using the QCD factorization (QCDF) method and final state interaction (FSI). First, the [Formula: see text] decay is calculated via the QCDF method and only the annihilation graphs exist in that method. The result found using the QCDF method is lower than the experimental result. FSI is considered to solve the [Formula: see text] decay. For this decay, D+K0, D0K+, and [Formula: see text] via the exchange of K0, K+, and [Formula: see text] are chosen for the intermediate states and we calculate B+ → D+K0 → [Formula: see text] decay. The amplitude of B+ → D+K0 decay is calculated using the QCDF method again. The experimental branching ratio of [Formula: see text] decay is less than 1.2 × 10−5 and our results calculated using the QCDF method and FSI are (0.4 ± 0.06) × 10−7 and (0.93 ± 0.08) × 10−5, respectively.
Standard Model Higgs boson searches at the Tevatron
Authors: Knoepfel Kyle J.
Published: March 2014

We give an overview of Standard Model (SM) Higgs boson studies performed at the CDF and D∅ experiments at the Tevatron proton–antiproton collider. Combining the results of many individual analyses, most of which use the full data set available, an excess with a significance of 3.0 standard deviations with respect to the SM hypothesis is observed at a Higgs boson mass of 125 GeV /c2. At that mass, the combined best-fit cross-section is consistent with the SM prediction. Constraints are also placed on the Higgs boson couplings with fermions and electroweak vector bosons and are consistent with the SM predictions within the uncertainties.
Phase transitions in coupled exclusion processes constituted by TASEP and two-lane SEPs
Authors: Wang Yu-Qing , Jiang Rui , Wu Qing-Song , Wu Hai-Yi
Published: March 2014

This paper studies the periodic one-dimensional exclusion processes constituted by totally asymmetric simple exclusion process (TASEP) and two-lane simple exclusion processes (SEP). TASEP and SEP compete with each other. Complemented by Monte Carlo simulations, mean-field analysis has been performed. Varying current splitting parameter θ, diffusivity rate D1 (or D2) and the global particle density np, we have studied phase diagrams, typical density profiles and current diagrams.
Modeling altruism and selfishness in welfare dynamics: The role of nonlinear interactions
Authors: Dolfin Marina , Lachowicz Mirosław
Published: March 2014

This paper deals with the modeling, qualitative and numerical analysis, of welfare dynamics in societies viewed as complex evolutive systems subject to different policies of wealth distribution. A nonlinear model of wealth distribution is presented. The state of a population is modeled by a probability distribution over wealth classes and the dynamic of interaction is parameterized by a threshold, whose dynamics depends on an internal competition related to the wealth distribution. Therefore, the model is a system of equations in which the threshold is one of the dynamic variables. The approach contains the whole path from modeling to simulations, through a qualitative analysis of the initial value problem.
On a class of multiscale cancer cell migration models: Well-posedness in less regular function spaces
Authors: Lorenz Thomas , Surulescu Christina
Published: March 2014

The system of functional differential equations considered here is motivated by a concrete class of multiscale models for tumor cell migration involving chemotaxis, haptotaxis, and subcellular dynamics proposed in [J. Kelkel and C. Surulescu, A multiscale approach to cell migration in tissue networks, Math. Models Methods Appl. Sci. 22 (2012) 1150017]. Tissue fibers, cell densities and concentrations of chemotactic signals are assumed to be just square Lebesgue integrable in space, but not necessarily essentially bounded (as in [J. Kelkel and C. Surulescu, A multiscale approach to cell migration in tissue networks, Math. Models Methods Appl. Sci. 22 (2012) 1150017] and related previous settings). The focus of interest is on sufficient conditions for the well-posedness of the underlying larger problem class.
Khovanov homology for alternating tangles
Authors: Bar-Natan Dror , Burgos-Soto Hernando
Published: March 2014

We describe a "concentration on the diagonal" condition on the Khovanov complex of tangles, show that this condition is satisfied by the Khovanov complex of the single crossing tangles [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], and prove that it is preserved by alternating planar algebra compositions. Hence, this condition is satisfied by the Khovanov complex of all alternating tangles. Finally, in the case of 0-tangles, meaning links, our condition is equivalent to a well-known result [E. S. Lee, The support of the Khovanov's invariants for alternating links, preprint (2002), arXiv:math.GT/0201105v1.] which states that the Khovanov homology of a non-split alternating link is supported on two diagonals. Thus our condition is a generalization of Lee's theorem to the case of tangles.
Approximation of locally integrable functions on the real line
Authors: Chang Xirong
Published: March 2014

The aim of this paper is to extend (ψ, β)-derivatives to [Formula: see text]-derivatives for locally integrable functions on the real line and then investigate problems of approximation of the classes of functions determined by these derivatives with the use of entire functions of exponential type.
Adaptive Fourier decomposition and rational approximation — Part II: Software system design and development
Authors: Zhang Liming , Hong Wei , Mai Weixiong , Qian Tao
Published: March 2014

This paper proposes a new software system which provides algorithms for three variations of adaptive Fourier decomposition (AFD), including Core AFD, Cyclic AFD and Unwending AFD. The related time frequency distributions (TFDs) are also provided. Remarks are made for the algorithms design and development. The software system can be used to analyze any signal with finite energy.
Virial theorem in quasi-coordinates and Lie algebroid formalism
Authors: Cariñena José F. , Gheorghiu Irina , Martínez Eduardo , Santos Patrícia
Published: March 2014

In this paper, the geometric approach to the virial theorem (VT) developed in [J. F. Cariñena, F. Falceto and M. F. Rañada, A geometric approach to a generalized virial theorem, J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 45 (2012) 395210, 19 pp.] is written in terms of quasi-velocities (see [J. F. Cariñena, J. Nunes da Costa and P. Santos, Quasi-coordinates from the point of view of Lie algebroid structures, J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 40 (2007) 10031–10048]). A generalization of the VT for mechanical systems on Lie algebroids is also given, using the geometric tools of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics on the prolongation of the Lie algebroid.
Quantum Thermodynamics: An Example of Two-Level Quantum Machine
Authors: Alicki R.
Published: March 2014

A simple model of microscopic thermal machine which can work as a heat engine or refrigerator is discussed. This model serves as a tutorial example of quantum thermodynamics and shows that with the proper definitions of fundamental thermodynamical notions the standard formulation of the laws of thermodynamics remains valid also in the quantum domain.
All You Ever Wanted to Know About the Quantum Zeno Effect in 70 Minutes
Authors: Pascazio Saverio
Published: March 2014

This is a primer on the quantum Zeno effect, addressed to students and researchers with no previous knowledge on the subject. The prerequisites are the Schrödinger equation and the von Neumann notion of projective measurement.
Balancing with binomial coefficients
Authors: Komatsu Takao , Szalay László
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we study a balancing problem of ordinary binomial coefficients. The diop-hantine equation [Formula: see text] in positive integers x and y ≥ x + 2 will be investigated, where k and ℓ are given positive integers. In case of k < ℓ the basic tool is the Runge method. If k ≥ ℓ, then the main results state effective and non-effective finiteness theorems on the subject matter. Further, computational results are also reported including the complete solutions when 1 ≤ k, ℓ ≤ 3, and a computer search otherwise.
SORTING SEMICONDUCTING SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES AND USING THEM AS RANDOM NETWORK OF FIELD-EFFECT TRANSISTORS
Authors: ZHANG LINGLI , PAN XIAOYONG , WANG WEIZHI
Published: March 2014

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with incovalently attached iodine, were obtained by physical absorption. The different diameter sizes of SWCNTs, with different numbers of iodine molecule, enhance the density contrast between them which becomes evident in density gradient ultracentrifugation (DGU) targeted to sort certain species of SWCNTs. The results of optical absorbance and photoluminescence emission showed that iodine-assisted DGU preferentially separates semiconducting nanotubes with certain diameters [(6, 5), (7, 5), (8, 4), and (7, 6)].We have applied these semiconducting, species enriched SWCNTs to prepare solution-processed field effect transistor (FET) devices with random nanotube network active channels. The devices exhibit stable p-type semiconductor behavior in air with very promising characteristics. The on-off current ratio reaches up to 2 × 104 within a narrow window of voltage (-10 V to 10 V), and estimated hole mobility of 21.7 cm2 V-1 s-1.
GROWTH AND MICROSTRUCTURES OF ULTRATHIN Bi2Te3 NANOPLATES BY MODIFIED HOT WALL EPITAXY
Authors: GUO JIANHUA , LIU YUCONG , DENG HUIYONG , HU GUJIN , LI XIAONAN , YU GUOLIN , DAI NING
Published: March 2014

Ultrathin Bi 2 Te 3 nanoplates have been grown on an oxidized silicon substrate by a modified hot wall epitaxy (HWE) method, in which a quartz plate with holes was employed. The microstructures and optical properties of Bi 2 Te 3 nanoplates were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscope (AFM) and micro-Raman spectroscopy. The results show that ultrathin Bi 2 Te 3 nanoplates with the thickness of about six quintuple layers (QLs) are obtained, which is difficult for the traditional HWE technique. The Raman vibration mode [Formula: see text] from the nanoplates exhibits an obviously red shift with decreasing thickness. The thickness variation of one nanoplate was obtained by the Raman map derived from the vibration frequency of [Formula: see text] mode and is in good agreement with the AFM result, which indicates that Raman map is an effective method to characterize the thickness difference of ultrathin Bi 2 Te 3 nanoplates.
Synthesis and thermoelectric properties of tantalum-doped ZrNiSn half-Heusler alloys
Authors: Zhao Degang , Zuo Min , Wang Zhenqing , Teng Xinying , Geng Haoran
Published: March 2014

The Ta -doped ZrNiSn half-Heusler alloys, Zr 1-x Ta x NiSn , were synthesized by arc melting and hot-press sintering. Microstructure of Zr 1-x Ta x NiSn compounds were analyzed and the thermoelectric (TE) properties of Zr 1-x Ta x NiSn compounds were measured from room temperature to 823 K. The electrical conductivity increased with increasing Ta content. The Seebeck coefficient of Zr 1-x Ta x NiSn compounds was sharply decreased with increasing Ta content. The Hall mobility was proportional to T-1.5 above 673 K, indicating that the acoustic phonon scattering was predominant in the temperature range. The thermal conductivity was effectively depressed by introducing Ta substitution. The figure of merit of ZrNiSn compounds was improved due to the decreased thermal conductivity and increased electrical conductivity. The maximum ZT value of 0.60 was achieved for Zr 0.97 Ta 0.03 NiSn sample at 823 K.
Synthesis of flower-like Al doped ZnO microstructures by hydrothermal process and analysis of their gas sensing properties
Authors: Li Zan , Qin Wei , Zhao Wenjie , Wu Xiaohong
Published: March 2014

Al -doped ZnO (AZO) powders with flower-like microstructures were successfully synthesized through a simple and efficient hydrothermal approach, and were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy diffraction spectrum (EDS). All the samples presented high crystallinity with a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The heater gas sensors based on AZO were fabricated and investigation of gas sensing properties was conducted. The sensors showed high response values and reproducible response-recovery for 50–1800 ppm ethanol at 332°C, comparing with NH 3, SO 2, CO , and HCHO . The underlying mechanism was discussed.
ZnO/TiO2 composite photoanodes for efficient dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Zhang Liqing , Zhou Shuai , Cai Fengshi , Yuan Zhihao
Published: March 2014

ZnO / TiO 2 composite films composed of a ZnO nanoflowers overlayer and a ZnO / TiO 2 composite particulate underlayer were fabricated by a simple hydrothermal process. The as-prepared films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and diffused reflectance spectroscopy. The performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) was investigated by photocurrent–voltage measurements, incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. It was found that the ZnO / TiO 2 composite film prepared with a 60 min growth time exhibited higher reflectivity than that of pure TiO 2 film due to the effective light-scattering of ZnO nanoflowers, resulting in increased J sc . In the meantime, the open-circuit potential of the device were enhanced from 698 to 826 mV due to the formation of an energy barrier by ZnO at TiO 2/electrolyte interface, resulting in a 52% improvement in the power conversion efficiency from 4.64 to 7.06%.
Disproof of the group coloring version of the Hadwiger conjecture
Authors: Wu Baoyindureng , An Xinhui
Published: March 2014

Inspired by the idea of Barát, Joret and Wood for disproving the list Hadwiger conjecture [The Electronic Journal of Combinatorics 18 (2011), P232], we disprove the group coloring version of the Hadwiger conjecture, which asserts that if G is a Kk-minor-free graph, then χg(G) ≤ k, where χg(G) denotes the group chromatic number of G.
The intersection graph of ideals of a poset
Authors: Afkhami Mojgan , Khashyarmanesh Kazem
Published: March 2014

Let (P, ≤) be a partially ordered set (poset, briefly) with a least element 0. The intersection graph of ideal of P, denoted by G(P), is a graph whose vertices are all non-trivial ideals of P and two distinct vertices I and J are adjacent if and only if I ∩ J ≠ {0}. In this paper, we study some relations between the algebraic properties of posets and graph-theoretic properties of G(P). We investigate the connectivity, diameter, girth and planarity of the intersection graph. Also, among the other things, we show that if the clique number of G(P) is finite, then P is finite too.
CXCL1/CXCL8 (GROα/IL-8) in human diabetic ketoacidosis plasma facilitates leukocyte recruitment to cerebrovascular endothelium in vitro
Authors: Omatsu Tatsushi , Cepinskas Gediminas , Clarson Cheril , Patterson Eric K. , Alharfi Ibrahim M. , Summers Kelly , Couraud Pierre-Olivier , Romero Ignacio A. , Weksler Babette , Fraser Douglas D.
Published: March 2014

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in children is associated with intracranial vascular complications, possibly due to leukocyte-endothelial interactions. Our aim was to determine whether DKA-induced inflammation promoted leukocyte adhesion to activated human cerebrovascular endothelium. Plasma was obtained from children with type 1 diabetes either in acute DKA or in an insulin-controlled state (CON). Plasma concentrations of 21 inflammatory analytes were compared between groups. DKA was associated with altered circulating levels of ↑CXCL1 (GROα), ↑CXCL8 (IL-8), ↑IL-6, ↑IFNα2, and ↓CXCL10 (IP-10) compared with CON. These plasma analyte measurements were then used to create physiologically relevant cytokine mixtures (CM). Human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (hCMEC/D3) were stimulated with either plasma (DKA-P or CON-P) or CM (DKA-CM or CON-CM) and assessed for polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) adhesion. Stimulation of hCMEC/D3 with DKA-P or DKA-CM increased PMN adhesion to hCMEC/D3 under “flow” conditions. PMN adhesion to hCMEC/D3 was suppressed with neutralizing antibodies to CXCL1/CXCL8 or their hCMEC/D3 receptors CXCR1/CXCR2. DKA-P, but not DKA-CM, initiated oxidative stress in hCMEC/D3. Expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin were unaltered on hCMEC/D3 by either DKA-P or DKA-CM. In summary, DKA elicits inflammation in children associated with changes in circulating cytokines/chemokines. Increased CXCL1/CXCL8 instigated PMN adhesion to hCMEC/D3, possibly contributing to DKA-associated intracranial vascular complications.
Mutation Analysis of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes in the Belgian Patient Population and Identification of a Belgian Founder Mutation BRCA1 IVS5+3A>G
Authors: Claes Kathleen , Machackova Eva , De Vos Michel , Poppe Bruce , De Paepe Anne , Messiaen Ludwine
Published: March 2014

Since the identification of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, several hundred different germline mutations in both genes have been reported. Recurrent mutations are rare and mainly due to founder effects. As the mutational spectrum of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in the Belgian patient population is largely unknown, we initiated mutation analysis for the complete coding sequence of both genes in Belgian families with multiple breast and/or ovarian cancer patients and in “sporadic” patients with early onset disease. We completed the analysis in 49 families and in 19 “sporadic” female patients with early onset breast and/or ovarian cancer. In 15 families we identified a mutation (12 mutations in BRCA1 and 3 mutations in BRCA2). In 5 apparently unrelated families the same splice site mutation was identified (BRCA1 IVS5+3A>G). Haplotype analysis revealed a common haplotype immediately flanking the mutation in all families suggesting that disease alleles are identical by descent. In none of the 19 sporadic patients was a mutation found.
Hereditary Susceptibility to Breast Cancer: Significance of Age of Onset in Family History and Contribution of BRCA1 and BRCA2
Authors: Frank Thomas S. , Deffenbaugh Amie M. , Hulick Mark , Gumpper Kathryn
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To correlate mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 with family history of breast cancer in a first‐degree relative for women diagnosed with breast cancer before age 45 who do not have a personal or family history of ovarian cancer.

METHODS: Family history for women with breast cancer diagnosed before age 45 was provided by ordering physicians via a test requisition form designed for this purpose. Gene analysis was performed by dye primer sequencing for the entire coding regions of BRCA1 and BRCA2. Because a personal and family history of ovarian cancer are known to be significantly associated with mutations, women with either were excluded from analysis.

RESULTS: Overall, deleterious mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 were identified in 85 of 440 women (19%) with breast cancer under 45. Mutations were identified in 73 of 276 women (26%) with a first degree family history of breast cancer compared to 12 of 164 without (7%) (P <.0001). When results were analyzed by the age of diagnosis in first degree relatives, mutations were identified in 56 of 185 women (30%) with at least one first degree relative with breast cancer diagnosed before age 50 compared with 17 of 91 women (19%), where the first degree family history of breast cancer was at or over age 50 (P = .042).

CONCLUSION: Among women with breast cancer diagnosed before age 45, a first‐degree relative diagnosed with the disease under age 50 is an indicator of a mutation in BRCAl or BRCA2 even in the absence of a family history of ovarian cancer. Therefore, women diagnosed with early‐onset breast cancer should be asked about the age of onset in any first‐degree relative diagnosed with the disease, as well as about any family history of ovarian cancer. Mutations in BRCA2 account for a substantial proportion of hereditary breast cancer. Therefore, studies that are limited to BRCA1 or that do not analyze by age of onset of breast cancer in relatives may underestimate the contribution of mutations in BRCAl and BRCA2 to women with early onset breast cancer.
Transforming Growth Factor‐β and Nitrates in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Khalifa Ali , Kassim Samar K. , Ahmed Maha I. , Fayed Salah T.
Published: March 2014

The role of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and nitric oxide (NO) in ovarian neoplasia is still not clear. We studied the expression of TGF‐β by enzyme immunoassay, and nitrates (as a stable end product of NO) in 127 ovarian tissues (36 normal, 37 benign, and 54 malignant). Ploidy status and synthetic phase fraction (SPF) were also assessed by flow cytometry. Mean ranks of TGF‐β, nitrate, and SPF were significant among different groups (X2 = 12.01, P = 0.0025, X2 = 67.42, P = 0.000, X2 = 9.06, P = 0.011 respectively). Nitrate mean ranks were significant among different FIGO stages of the disease (X2 = 17.6, P = 0.000). A significant correlation was shown between TGF‐â, and nitrate levels in all tissues (r = 0.24, P = 0.01), as well as in malignant tissues (r = 0.3, P = 0.026). Cutoff values were determined for both TGF‐β (290 pg/mg protein), and nitrates (310 nmole/mg non protein nitrogenous substances). At these cut‐offs, nitrates showed a sensitivity of 93% and 84% specificity for malignant versus normal cases, while TGF‐β had 76% sensitivity, and 82.4% specificity for poor versus good outcome. Patients with epithelial ovarian cancer were followed up for a total of 40 months. Survival analysis showed that patients with TGF‐β above the cut‐off had worse prognosis (X2 = 12.69, P = 0.004). The present results suggest that malignant transformation of ovarian tissues is associated with increased TGF‐β and NO production. NO level is related to the development and progression of epithelial ovarian cancer, while high levels of TGF‐β could be of prognostic significance.
Formulation and Characterization of Solid Dispersion Prepared by Hot Melt Mixing: A Fast Screening Approach for Polymer Selection
Authors: Enose Arno A. , Dasan Priya K. , Sivaramakrishnan H. , Shah Sanket M.
Published: March 2014

Solid dispersion is molecular dispersion of drug in a polymer matrix which leads to improved solubility and hence better bioavailability. Solvent evaporation technique was employed to prepare films of different combinations of polymers, plasticizer, and a modal drug sulindac to narrow down on a few polymer-plasticizer-sulindac combinations. The sulindac-polymer-plasticizer combination that was stable with good film forming properties was processed by hot melt mixing, a technique close to hot melt extrusion, to predict its behavior in a hot melt extrusion process. Hot melt mixing is not a substitute to hot melt extrusion but is an aid in predicting the formation of molecularly dispersed form of a given set of drug-polymer-plasticizer combination in a hot melt extrusion process. The formulations were characterized by advanced techniques like optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, hot stage microscopy, dynamic vapor sorption, and X-ray diffraction. Subsequently, the best drug-polymer-plasticizer combination obtained by hot melt mixing was subjected to hot melt extrusion process to validate the usefulness of hot melt mixing as a predictive tool in hot melt extrusion process.
Synthesis of 1,8-Naphthyridine Derivatives under Ultrasound Irradiation and Cytotoxic Activity against HepG2 Cell Lines
Authors: Ahmed N. S. , AlFooty K. O. , Khalifah S. S.
Published: March 2014

Novel pyrazole derivatives3a,b,5, 1,3,4-oxadiazole6, 1,3,4-thiadiazole8, and 1,2,4-triazole9a–cincorporated into 1,8-naphthyridine have been synthesized using the versatile synthon 2-(2,7-dimethyl-1,8-naphthyridin-4-yloxy) acetohydrazide1. An improvement in rates and yields was observed when the reactions were carried out under ultrasonic irradiation compared with the classical synthesis. The newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for HepG2 cell growth inhibition. The results obtained revealed that the tested compounds possess inhibitory effect on the growth of HepG2 liver cancer cells. The results were compared to doxorubicin (DOX) as a reference drug (IC50 : 0.04 μM). Compounds9bshowed the highest inhibition activity against HepG2 cell line (IC50 : 0.048 μM) among all tested compounds.
Origin of Difference in Photocatalytic Activity of ZnO (002) Grown on a- and c-Face Sapphire
Authors: Li Guoqiang , Sun Bingyang , Wang Yali , Wu Zhou , Zhang Weifeng
Published: March 2014

The oriented (002) ZnO films were grown on a- and c-face sapphire by pulsed laser deposition. The X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the oriented (002) ZnO films were epitaxially grown on the substrate successfully. The sample on a-face sapphire had higher crystal quality. However, the photocatalytic activity for Rhodamine B degradation of ZnO film on c-face sapphire was higher than that on a-face sapphire. The Raman spectrum and XPS analysis suggested that the sample on a-face sapphire had higher concentration of defects. The result of the contact angle measurement revealed that the sample on c-face sapphire had higher surface energy. And the investigation of the surface conductance implied that the higher light conductance was helpful for the photocatalytic activity.
Inverse Tone Mapping Based upon Retina Response
Authors: Huo Yongqing , Yang Fan , Brost Vincent
Published: March 2014

The development of high dynamic range (HDR) display arouses the research of inverse tone mapping methods, which expand dynamic range of the low dynamic range (LDR) image to match that of HDR monitor. This paper proposed a novel physiological approach, which could avoid artifacts occurred in most existing algorithms. Inspired by the property of the human visual system (HVS), this dynamic range expansion scheme performs with a low computational complexity and a limited number of parameters and obtains high-quality HDR results. Comparisons with three recent algorithms in the literature also show that the proposed method reveals more important image details and produces less contrast loss and distortion.
Environmental Tobacco Smoke Exposure during Intrauterine Period, Promotes Caspase Dependent and Independent DNA Fragmentation in Sertoli-Germ Cells
Authors: Yüksel Beril , Kilic Sevtap , Lortlar Nese , Tasdemir Nicel , Sertyel Semra , Bardakci Yesim , Aksu Tarik , Batioglu Sertaç
Published: March 2014

Objectives. To investigate the effect of cigarette smoke exposure during intrauterine period on neonatal rat testis. Methods. Twenty-five rats were randomized to be exposed to cigarette smoke with the Walton Smoking Machine or to room air during their pregnancies. The newborn male rats (n=21) were grouped as group 1 (n=15) which were exposed to cigarette smoke during intrauterine life and group 2 (n=6) which were exposed to room air during intrauterine life. The orchiectomy materials were analyzed with TUNEL immunofluorescent staining for detection of DNA damage. To detect apoptosis, immunohistochemical analyses with caspase-3 were performed. Primary outcomes were apoptotic index and immunohistochemical scores (HSCORES); secondary outcomes were Sertoli-cell count and birth-weight of rats. Results. Sertoli cell apoptosis was increased in group 1 (HSCORE =210.6±41.9) when compared to group 2 (HSCORE =100.0±17.8) (P=0.001). Sertoli cell count was decreased in group 1 (P=0.043). The HSCORE for the germ cells was calculated as 214.0±46.2 in group 1 and 93.3±10.3 in group 2 (P=0.001) referring to an increased germ cell apoptosis in group 1. The apoptotic indexes for group 1 were 49.6±9.57 and 29.98±2.34 for group 2 (P=0.001). The immunofluorescent technique demonstrated increased DNA damage in seminiferous epithelium in group 1. Conclusions. Intrauterine exposure to cigarette smoke adversely affects neonatal testicular structuring and diminishes testicular reserve.
Concomitant Infection withLeishmania donovaniandL. majorin Single Ulcers of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Patients from Sudan
Authors: Babiker A. M. , Ravagnan S. , Fusaro A. , Hassan M. M. , Bakheit S. M. , Mukhtar M. M. , Cattoli G. , Capelli G.
Published: March 2014

In Sudan human leishmaniasis occurs in different clinical forms, that is, visceral (VL), cutaneous (CL), mucocutaneous (ML), and post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL). Clinical samples from 69 Sudanese patients with different clinical manifestations were subjected to a PCR targeting the cytochrome oxidase II (COII) gene forLeishmaniaspecies identification. Mixed infections were suspected due to multiple overlapping peaks presented in some sequences of the COII amplicons. Cloning these amplicons and alignment of sequences from randomly selected clones confirmed the presence of two differentLeishmaniaspecies,L. donovaniandL. major, in three out of five CL patients. Findings were further confirmed by cloning the ITS gene. Regarding other samples no significant genetic variations were found in patients with VL (62 patients), PKDL (one patient), or ML (one patient). The sequences clustered in a single homogeneous group withinL. donovanigenetic group, with the exception of one sequence clustering withL. infantumgenetic group. Findings of this study open discussion on the synergetic/antagonistic interaction between divergentLeishmaniaspecies both in mammalian and vector hosts, their clinical implications with respect to parasite fitness and response to treatment, and the route of transmission with respect to vector distribution and or adaptation.
Delivery Induced Intraperitoneal Rupture of a Cystic Ovarian Teratoma and Associated Chronic Chemical Peritonitis
Authors: Nader Reine , Thubert Thibault , Deffieux Xavier , de Laveaucoupet Jocelyne , Ssi-Yan-Kai Guillaume
Published: March 2014

Intraperitoneal rupture of cystic ovarian teratoma is a rare complication. We report a case in a 29-year-old female, with increased abdominal circumference 2 months after vaginal delivery. MRI/CT raised this diagnosis associated to chemical peritonitis. A malignant ovarian mass with peritoneal carcinomatosis was excluded. Laparoscopic oophorectomy was performed and histologic analysis confirmed imaging findings. This case demonstrates the interest of imaging before surgery in pelvic masses to avoid misdiagnosing and to provide adequate treatment.
Assessment of Tritium Activity in Groundwater at the Nuclear Objects Sites in Lithuania
Authors: Cidzikienė Vigilija , Jakimavičiūtė-Maselienė Vaidotė , Girgždienė Raselė , Mažeika Jonas , Petrošius Rimantas
Published: March 2014

The assessment of nuclear objects sites in Lithuania, including groundwater characterization, took place in the last few years. Tritium activity in groundwater is a very useful tool for determining how groundwater systems function. Natural and artificial tritium was measured in 8 wells in different layers (from 1.5 to 15 meters depth). The results were compared with other regions of Lithuania also. The evaluated tritium activities varied from 1.8 to 6.4 Bq/L at nuclear objects sites in Lithuania and they are coming to background level (1.83 Bq/L) and other places in Lithuania. The data show, that groundwater at the nuclear power objects sites is not contaminated with artificial tritium. In this work, the vertical tritium transfer from soil water to the groundwater well at nuclear objects site was estimated. The data show that the main factor for vertical tritium transfer to the well depends on the depth of wells.
Evaluation of DNA Binding, Cleavage, and Cytotoxic Activity of Cu(II), Co(II), and Ni(II) Schiff Base Complexes of 1-Phenylindoline-2,3-dione with Isonicotinohydrazide
Authors: Gomathi Ramadoss , Ramu Andy , Murugan Athiappan
Published: March 2014

One new series of Cu(II), Co(II), and Ni(II) Schiff base complexes was prepared through the condensation reaction between 1-phenylindoline-2,3-dione with isonicotinohydrazide followed by metalation, respectively. The Schiff base ligand(L),(E)-N′-(2-oxo-1-phenylindolin-3-lidene)isonicotinohydrazide, and its complexes were found soluble in DMF and DMSO solvents and characterized by using the modern analytical and spectral techniques such as elemental analysis, conductivity, magnetic moments, IR, NMR, UV-visible, Mass, CV, and EPR. The elemental analysis data of ligand and their complexes were well agreed with their calculated values in which metal and ligand stoichiometry ratio 1 : 2 was noted. Molar conductance values indicated that all the complexes were found to be nonelectrolytes. All the complexes showed octahedral geometry around the central metal ions. Herein, we better characterized DNA binding with the complexes by UV-visible and CD spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry techniques. The DNA cleavage experiments were carried out by Agarose gel electrophoresis method and the cytotoxicity experiments by MTT assay method. Based on the DNA binding, cleavage, and cytotoxicity studies, Cu and Ni complexes were found to be good anticancer agents against AGS-human gastric cancer cell line.
Chemical Constituents from the Fruits ofForsythia suspensaand Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Kuo Ping-Chung , Chen Guo-Feng , Yang Mei-Lin , Lin Ya-Hua , Peng Chi-Chung
Published: March 2014

Lignans and phenylethanoid glycosides purified fromForsythia suspensawere reported to display various bioactivities in the previous literature, including the antimicrobial activity. Therefore, the present research is aimed to purify and identify the chemical constituents of the methanol extracts of fruits ofF. suspensa. The methanol extracts of fruits ofF. suspensawere fractionated and further purified with the assistance of column chromatography to afford totally thirty-four compounds. Among these isolates, 3β-acetoxy-20α-hydroxyursan-28-oic acid (1) was reported from the natural sources for the first time. Some of the purified principles were subjected to the antimicrobial activity examinations againstEscherichia colito explore new natural lead compounds.
Magnetic Nanoparticles of Chitosan for Targeted Delivery System of Plasmids to the Lungs
Authors: Alvizo Báez Cynthia Aracely , Luna Cruz Itza Eloisa , Rodríguez Padilla Maria Cristina , Alcocer González Juan Manuel
Published: March 2014

One of the major problems of gene therapy is the efficient, specific, and targeted delivery as well as the safety of the materials used in such systems. The specific targeted delivery of genes to the lung offers the possibility to treat a variety of specific diseases. We developed chitosan nanoparticles with the plasmid pCEM-Luc, which contains a promoter activated by magnetic field. Nanoparticles of 200–250 nm obtained by ionic gelation with a 99% retention rate were transfected in B16F10 cells andin vivoin the lungs of Balb/c mice by intratracheal administration. We observed that an external magnetic field increased the expression of the luciferase reporter gene in B16F10 cells transfected with magnetic nanoparticles and in homogenized lungs of mice which determined differences in levels of expression between different regions of the lungs (apical or distal and left or right). The highest levels of luciferase activity were observed in the apical left region. The magnetic nanoparticles prove an efficient delivery system toin vitrotransfection of cells and lung tissue.
An Integrated Conceptual Framework for Adapting Forest Management Practices to Alternative Futures
Authors: Prato Tony , Paveglio Travis B.
Published: March 2014

This paper proposes an integrated, conceptual framework that forest managers can use to simulate the multiple objectives/indicators of sustainability for different spatial patterns of forest management practices under alternative futures, rank feasible (affordable) treatment patterns for forested areas, and determine if and when it is advantageous to adapt or change the spatial pattern over time for each alternative future. The latter is defined in terms of three drivers: economic growth; land use policy; and climate change. Four forest management objectives are used to demonstrate the framework, minimizing wildfire risk and water pollution and maximizing expected net return from timber sales and the extent of potential wildlife habitat. The fuzzy technique for preference by similarity to the ideal solution is used to rank the feasible spatial patterns for each subperiod in a planning horizon and alternative future. The resulting rankings for subperiods are used in a passive adaptive management procedure to determine if and when it is advantageous to adapt the spatial pattern over subperiods. One of the objectives proposed for the conceptual framework is simulated for the period 2010–2059, namely, wildfire risk, as measured by expected residential losses from wildfire in the wildland-urban interface for Flathead County, Montana.
Distributed Movement Control for Building a Ring in Mobile Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Chen Jian , Jia Jie , Wen Yingyou , Zhao Dazhe
Published: March 2014

Many applications in wireless sensor networks require some sensors to form a ring or multiring-based shape in the target area, such as intrusion detection, border surveillance, routing overlay formation, and network full coverage. In this paper, we study the problem of sensor redistribution to build a ring-based shape for mobile sensor networks. We first give the theoretical analysis on what is optimal sensor movement with the given random deployment. Then, we propose a fully distributed movement control algorithm to achieve ring-based shape for mobile sensor networks. We formally prove that our algorithm can achieve a ring-based distribution within finite time. We also present the procedures of applying our algorithm to form multiring-based distribution. Finally, we present extensive simulations to verify that our approach outperforms other schemes in terms of both the moving distance and convergence time.
Progress in Wettability Study of Reactive Systems
Authors: Komolafe Bolarinwa , Medraj Mamoun
Published: March 2014

A review of various factors affecting wetting and spreading has been presented. Various methods for wettability studies and critical issues concerning contact angle measurement are discussed. Reactive wetting has been given a special attention in the paper and recent developments in this area are summarized and discussed. Although advanced understanding of nonreactive wetting is currently available in the literature, complete understanding of reactive wetting is still lacking due to the complexity of the phenomenon. To date, there is no single model that is generally applicable to all reactive wetting systems. Reaction between the liquid drop and substrate can take the form of dissolution, intermetallic formation, or combination of both processes. Factors affecting wettability have been summarized and discussed as well as the major available techniques to investigate wetting behaviour.
Memory‐Enhancing Effects of the Crude Extract of Polygala tenuifolia on Aged Mice
Authors: Li Zongyang , Liu Yamin , Wang Liwei , Liu Xinmin , Chang Qi , Guo Zhi , Liao Yonghong , Pan Ruile , Fan Tai-Ping
Published: March 2014

Learning and memory disorders arise from distinct age‐associated processes, and aging animals are often used as a model of memory impairment. The root of Polygala tenuifolia has been commonly used in some Asian countries as memory enhancer and its memory improvement has been reported in various animal models. However, there is less research to verify its effect on memory functions in aged animals. Herein, the memory‐enhancing effects of the crude extract of Polygala tenuifolia (EPT) on normal aged mice were assessed by Morris water maze (MWM) and step‐down passive avoidance tests. In MWM tests, the impaired spatial memory of the aged mice was partly reversed by EPT (100 and 200 mg/kg; P < 0.05) as compared with the aged control mice. In step‐down tests, the nonspatial memory of the aged mice was improved by EPT (100 and 200 mg/kg; P < 0.05). Additionally, EPT could increase superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO) and acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activities, and decrease the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the brain tissue of the aged mice. The results showed that EPT improved memory functions of the aged mice probably via its antioxidant properties and via decreasing the activities of MAO and AChE.
Linear Analytical Solutions of Mechanical Sensitivity in Large Deflection of Unsymmetrically Layered Piezoelectric Plate under Pretension
Authors: Chen Chun-Fu , Li I-Wei
Published: March 2014

Linear analytical study on the mechanical sensitivity in large deflection of unsymmetrically layered and laterally loaded piezoelectric plate under pretension is conducted. von Karman plate theory for large deflection is utilized but extended to the case of an unsymmetrically layered plate embedded with a piezoelectric layer. The governing equations thus obtained are simplified by omitting the arising nonlinear terms, yielding a Bessel or modified Bessel equation for the lateral slope. Depending on the relative magnitude of the piezoelectric effect, for both cases, analytical solutions of various geometrical responses are developed and formulated via Bessel and modified Bessel functions. The associated ultimate radial stresses are further derived following lamina constitutive law to evaluate the mechanical sensitivity of the considered plate. For a nearly monolithic plate under a very low applied voltage, the results are in good agreement with those for a single-layered case due to pure mechanical load available in literature, and thus the present approach is checked. For a two-layered unsymmetric plate made of typical silicon-based materials, a sound piezoelectric effect is illustrated particularly in a low pretension condition.
Genetic Variants in the Genes of the Stress Hormone Signalling Pathway and Depressive Symptoms during and after Pregnancy
Authors: Schneider Michael , Engel Anne , Fasching Peter A. , Häberle Lothar , Binder Elisabeth B. , Voigt Franziska , Grimm Jennifer , Faschingbauer Florian , Eichler Anna , Dammer Ulf , Rebhan Dirk , Amann Manuela , Raabe Eva , Goecke Tamme W. , Quast Carina , Beckmann Matthias W. , Kornhuber Johannes , Seifert Anna , Burghaus Stefanie
Published: March 2014

Purpose. The aim of this study was to investigate whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes of the stress hormone signaling pathway, specificallyFKBP5,NR3C1, andCRHR1, are associated with depressive symptoms during and after pregnancy.Methods. The Franconian Maternal Health Evaluation Study (FRAMES) recruited healthy pregnant women prospectively for the assessment of maternal and fetal health including the assessment of depressiveness. The German version of the 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was completed at three time points in this prospective cohort study. Visit 1 was at study entry in the third trimester of the pregnancy, visit 2 was shortly after birth, and visit 3 was 6–8 months after birth. Germline DNA was collected from 361 pregnant women. Nine SNPs in the above mentioned genes were genotyped. After construction of haplotypes for each gene, a multifactorial linear mixed model was performed to analyse the depression values over time.Results. EPDS values were within expected ranges and comparable to previously published studies. Neither did the depression scores differ for comparisons among haplotypes at fixed time points nor did the change over time differ among haplotypes for the examined genes. No haplotype showed significant associations with depressive symptoms severity during pregnancy or the postpartum period.Conclusion. The analysed candidate haplotypes inFKBP5,NR3C1, andCRHR1did not show an association with depression scores as assessed by EPDS in this cohort of healthy unselected pregnant women.
A Real‐Time Temperature Data Transmission Approach for Intelligent Cooling Control of Mass Concrete
Authors: Lin Peng , Li Qingbin , Jia Pinyu
Published: March 2014

The primary aim of the study presented in this paper is to propose a real‐time temperature data transmission approach for intelligent cooling control of mass concrete. A mathematical description of a digital temperature control model is introduced in detail. Based on pipe mounted and electrically linked temperature sensors, together with postdata handling hardware and software, a stable, real‐time, highly effective temperature data transmission solution technique is developed and utilized within the intelligent mass concrete cooling control system. Once the user has issued the relevant command, the proposed programmable logic controllers (PLC) code performs all necessary steps without further interaction. The code can control the hardware, obtain, read, and perform calculations, and display the data accurately. Hardening concrete is an aggregate of complex physicochemical processes including the liberation of heat. The proposed control system prevented unwanted structural change within the massive concrete blocks caused by these exothermic processes based on an application case study analysis. In conclusion, the proposed temperature data transmission approach has proved very useful for the temperature monitoring of a high arch dam and is able to control thermal stresses in mass concrete for similar projects involving mass concrete.
Nanoscale Zero‐Valent Iron for Sulfide Removal from Digested Piggery Wastewater
Authors: Chaung Sheng-Hsun , Wu Pei-Fung , Kao Yu-Lin , Yan Weile , Lien Hsing-Lung
Published: March 2014

The removal of dissolved sulfides in water and wastewater by nanoscale zero‐valent iron (nZVI) was examined in the study. Both laboratory batch studies and a pilot test in a 50,000‐pig farm were conducted. Laboratory studies indicated that the sulfide removal with nZVI was a function of pH where an increase in pH decreased removal rates. The pH effect on the sulfide removal with nZVI is attributed to the formation of FeS through the precipitation of Fe(II) and sulfide. The saturated adsorption capacities determined by the Langmuir model were 821.2, 486.3, and 359.7 mg/g at pH values 4, 7, and 12, respectively, for nZVI, largely higher than conventional adsorbents such as activated carbon and impregnated activated carbon. The surface characterization of sulfide‐laden nZVI using XPS and TGA indicated the formation of iron sulfide, disulfide, and polysulfide that may account for the high adsorption capacity of nZVI towards sulfide. The pilot study showed the effectiveness of nZVI for sulfide removal; however, the adsorption capacity is almost 50 times less than that determined in the laboratory studies during the testing period of 30 d. The complexity of digested wastewater constituents may limit the effectiveness of nZVI. Microbial analysis suggested that the impact of nZVI on the change of microbial species distribution was relatively noticeable after the addition of nZVI.