bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting bathymetric features of lakes from the topography of their surrounding landscape
Authors: Heathcote Adam J. , del Giorgio Paul A. , Prairie Yves T.
Published: February 2015

Estimating the distribution of water across the landscape is critical to understanding how local aquatic biogeochemical processes may upscale to regional or continental scales. Whereas technology to estimate the areal extent of inland waters has improved dramatically, predictions of lake bathymetry still rely primarily on correlations with lake area that lack a mechanistic underpinning. Using topographically diverse regions of Quebec (Canada), we developed a model for predicting lake volume and depth that relies on geographic data that are widely available, which can be easily adapted to other regions. We found that the average change in relief between the surrounding terrestrial landscape and the lake surface to be the best predictor of bathymetric properties (lake volume, lake depth). Unlike previous models, our method provides a clear mechanistic link between relief outside and within the perimeter of a lake that is supported by basic geographic principles. This model will be useful in estimating the volumetric distribution of water as well as the distribution of lake depth, which are integral to our understanding of biological and geochemical lake processes.
Rayleigh waves in generalized thermoelastic medium with mass diffusion
Authors: Kumar Rajneesh , Gupta Vandana
Published: February 2015

This paper is concerned with the study of propagation of Rayleigh waves in a homogeneous isotropic generalized thermoelastic solid half space with mass diffusion in the context of the Lord–Shulman (Lord and Shulman. J. Mech. Phys. Solids. 15, 299 (1967)) and Green–Lindsay (Green and Lindsay. J. Elasticity. 2, 1 (1972)) theories of thermoelasticity. The medium is subjected to stress-free, isothermal, isoconcentrated boundary. After developing a mathematical model, the dispersion curve in the form of a polynomial equation is obtained. The roots of this polynomial equation are verified for not satisfying the original dispersion equation and therefore are filtered out and the remaining roots are checked with the property of decay with depth. Phase velocity and attenuation coefficient of the Rayleigh wave are computed numerically. The numerically simulated results are depicted graphically. The behavior of the particle motion is studied for the propagation of Rayleigh waves under Lord–Shulman model. Some special cases are also deduced from the present investigation.
THE CHOMSKY-SCHÜTZENBERGER THEOREM FOR QUANTITATIVE CONTEXT-FREE LANGUAGES
Authors: DROSTE MANFRED , VOGLER HEIKO
Published: February 2015

Weighted automata model quantitative aspects of systems like the consumption of resources during executions. Traditionally, the weights are assumed to form the algebraic structure of a semiring, but recently also other weight computations like average have been considered. Here, we investigate quantitative context-free languages over very general weight structures incorporating all semirings, average computations, lattices. In our main result, we derive the Chomsky-Schützenberger Theorem for such quantitative context-free languages, showing that each arises as the image of the intersection of a Dyck language and a recognizable language under a suitable morphism. Moreover, we show that quantitative context-free languages are expressively equivalent to a model of weighted pushdown automata. This generalizes results previously known only for semirings. We also investigate under which conditions quantitative context-free languages assume only finitely many values.
REGULAR EXPRESSIONS FOR QUERYING DATA GRAPHS
Authors: TAN TONY , VRGOČ DOMAGOJ
Published: February 2015

The standard regular expressions over finite alphabets have been widely accepted as the most basic formalism to query graph databases. However, the major drawback of this approach is that it ignores the presence of data. In this paper we study the so called regular expressions with binding (REWB), that is, regular expressions equipped with variables to store data within a well defined scope. In particular, we study the complexity of the query evaluation of REWB queries over graph databases.
PREFIX PICTURE CODES: A DECIDABLE CLASS OF TWO-DIMENSIONAL CODES
Authors: ANSELMO MARCELLA , GIAMMARRESI DORA , MADONIA MARIA
Published: February 2015

A two-dimensional code of pictures is defined as a set X ⊆ Σ** such that any picture over Σ is tilable in at most one way with pictures in X. It is proved that in general it is undecidable whether a finite set of picture is a code. The subclass of prefix codes is introduced and it is proved that it is decidable whether a finite set of pictures is a prefix code. Further a polynomial time decoding algorithm for finite prefix codes is given. Maximality and completeness of finite prefix codes are studied.
ON THE DUAL POST CORRESPONDENCE PROBLEM
Authors: DAY JOEL D. , REIDENBACH DANIEL , SCHNEIDER JOHANNES C.
Published: February 2015

The Dual Post Correspondence Problem asks whether, for a given word α, there exists a pair of distinct morphisms σ,τ, one of which needs to be non-periodic, such that σ(α) = τ(α) is satisfied. This problem is important for the research on equality sets, which are a vital concept in the theory of computation, as it helps to identify words that are in trivial equality sets only.

Little is known about the Dual PCP for words α over larger than binary alphabets, especially for so-called ratio-primitive examples. In the present paper, we address this question in a way that simplifies the usual method, which means that we can reduce the intricacy of the word equations involved in dealing with the Dual PCP. Our approach yields large sets of words for which there exists a solution to the Dual PCP as well as examples of words over arbitrary alphabets for which such a solution does not exist.
ON THE DECIDABILITY OF THE INTERSECTION PROBLEM FOR QUANTUM AUTOMATA AND CONTEXT-FREE LANGUAGES
Authors: BERTONI ALBERTO , CHOFFRUT CHRISTIAN , D’ALESSANDRO FLAVIO
Published: February 2015

We consider the so-called measure once finite quantum automata model introduced by Moore and Crutchfield in 2000. We show that given a language recognized by such a device and a linear context-free language, it is decidable whether or not they have a nonempty intersection. This extends a result of Blondel et al. which can be interpreted as solving the problem with the free monoid in place of the family of linear context-free languages.
ADJACENT ORDERED MULTI-PUSHDOWN SYSTEMS
Authors: ATIG MOHAMED FAOUZI , KUMAR K. NARAYAN , SAIVASAN PRAKASH
Published: February 2015

Multi-pushdown systems are formal models of multi-threaded programs. As they are Turing powerful in their full generality, several decidable subclasses, constituting under-approximations of the original system, have been studied in the recent years. Ordered Multi-Pushdown Systems (OMPDSs) impose an order on the stacks and limit pop actions to the lowest non-empty stack. The control state reachability for OMPDSs is 2-ETIME-COMPLETE. We propose a restriction on OMPDSs, called Adjacent OMPDSs (AOMPDS), where values may be pushed only on the lowest non-empty stack or one of its two neighbours. We describe EXPTIME decision procedures for reachability and LTL model-checking and establish matching lower bounds. We demonstrate the utility of this model as an algorithmic tool via optimal reductions from other models.
STATELESS ONE-WAY MULTI-HEAD FINITE AUTOMATA WITH PEBBLES
Authors: KUTRIB MARTIN , MALCHER ANDREAS , WENDLANDT MATTHIAS
Published: February 2015

Stateless variants of deterministic one-way multi-head finite automata with pebbles, that is, automata where the heads can drop, sense, and pick up pebbles, are studied. The relation between heads and pebbles is investigated, and a proper double hierarchy concerning these two resources is obtained. Moreover, it is shown that a conversion of an arbitrary automaton to a stateless automaton can always be achieved at the cost of additional heads and/or pebbles. On the other hand, there are languages where one head cannot be traded for any number of additional pebbles and vice versa. Finally, the emptiness problem and related problems are shown to be undecidable even for the ‘simplest’ model, namely, for stateless one-way finite automata with two heads and one pebble.
Perturbation of the ns levels of the hydrogen atom in rotationally invariant noncommutative space
Authors: Gnatenko Kh. P. , Krynytskyi Yu. S. , Tkachuk V. M.
Published: February 2015

Noncommutative space which is rotationally invariant is considered. The hydrogen atom is studied in this space. We exactly find the leading term in the asymptotic expansion of the corrections to the ns energy levels over the small parameter of noncommutativity.
A note on the nonperturbative nature of the Schwinger effect in the expanding de Sitter space
Authors: Nicolaevici Nistor
Published: February 2015

We reconsider a recent perturbative calculation [M. A. Băloi, Mod. Phys. Lett. A29, 1450138 (2014)] of particle production in the expanding de Sitter space in an external electromagnetic field and apply it to the case of a constant uniform electric field in two dimensions. We show that perturbative number of created particles significantly differs from the existing nonperturbative result based on the Bogoliubov transformation method. We also point out that for a physically meaningful perturbative amplitude one should restrict to external potentials Aμ which in conformal coordinates vanish at infinite times. Potentials which do not respect this condition lead to gauge-dependent amplitudes, which also show close similarities with amplitudes in flat space in the unphysical case when the external potential suddenly vanishes. These problems are intimately linked with the finite upper limit of the conformal time in the de Sitter space and most probably a similar restriction should be imposed in perturbative calculations in FRW spacetimes with the same property.
PEOPLE WATCH
Authors: Lim Rachel
Published: February 2015

Satellite Technologies for Remote Healthcare.
Supported Bimetallic AgSn Nanoparticle as an Efficient Photocatalyst for Degradation of Methylene Blue Dye
Authors: Rout Lipeeka , Rengasamy Prashanth , Ekka Basanti , Kumar Aniket , Dash Priyabrat
Published: February 2015

We report the synthesis of TiO 2-supported monometallic Ag , Sn and bimetallic AgSn nanoparticle catalysts prepared using sol–gel method via a rational nanoparticle encapsulation route. The samples were thoroughly characterized by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) with image mapping and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analyzer. The supported bimetallic AgSn catalyst had the anatase structure, surface area of 50 m2/g and 2.6 ± 0.6 nm particle size. The efficiency of the catalysts was evaluated on photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under visible light. The photocatalytic activity of MB was significantly enhanced in the presence of bimetallic AgSn nanoparticles (NPs) as compared to individual metal nanoparticles. Reusability study of the photocatalyst showed that the catalyst can be reused upto 5 runs with minimal loss in activity. Kinetic study revealed that the degradation reaction follows a pseudo first-order pathway.
An Ultrasensitive Immunosensor for the Detection of Carcinoembryonic Antigens Utilizing a Nb-Doped Titanium Dioxide Nanocomposite Film
Authors: Li He , Lu Junli , Wang Yu , Yi Fenyun , Guo Xindong
Published: February 2015

An ultrasensitive electrochemical immunosensor based on Nb-doped titanium dioxide was developed for detection of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). The electrochemical signal enhancement was due to the synergistic effect by NbT and nanogold. The influence factors (pH, temperature and incubation time) were investigated in detail. Under optimal conditions, the immunosensor was able to detect the concentration of CEA in the range of 0.5 ng ⋅ mL-1 to 150 ng ⋅ mL-1, with a lower detection limit of 8.95 pg ⋅ mL-1. The proposed immunosensor showed high sensitivity, excellent selectivity and good stability.
An algebraic approach to binary relations
Authors: Chajda Ivan , Länger Helmut , Ševčik Petr
Published: February 2015

Several attempts were made to assign to a given binary relation a certain binary operation in order to allow an algebraic approach for investigating binary relations. However, the previous attempts by the first two authors were restricted to the case of so-called directed binary relations. In this paper, this restriction is omitted and a general approach is developed. We assign to every binary relation a partial binary operation in such a way that the properties of the relation can be described by properties of the assigned operation. These properties are expressed mostly in terms of existential or strong identities. The partial binary operation can be extended to an everywhere defined binary operation by means of the so-called one-point extension. This enables us to get a genuine algebraic approach similar to that for directed binary relations.
A note on prime ideal principle in lattices
Authors: Kavishwar Shubhangi , Joshi Vinayak
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we introduce a prime ideal principle (PIP) in lattices and use it to prove that certain ideals in lattices are prime ideals. Moreover, our results yield a unification of known results of Stone, Gorbunov and Tumanov, Rav etc. on prime ideals.
Permanence and almost periodic solutions for an n-species Lotka–Volterra food chain system on time scales
Authors: Liao Qingshui , Li Bing , Li Yongkun
Published: February 2015

By applying differential inequalities on time scales and the Lyapunov function method, we obtain some sufficient conditions which guarantee the permanence and the existence of an unique uniformly asymptotically stable almost periodic solution of an n-species Lotka–Volterra unidirectional food chain system on time scales.
Nonuniform wavelet frames in L2(ℝ)
Authors: Sharma Vikram , Manchanda P.
Published: February 2015

Gabardo and Nashed, [Nonuniform multiresolution analysis and spectral pairs, J. Funct. Anal. 158 (1998) 209–241] introduced the nonuniform multiresolution analysis (NUMRA) whose translation set is not necessarily a group. The translation set is taken for elements in [Formula: see text], N ≥ 1 (an integer) and r is an odd integer with 1 ≤ r ≤ 2N - 1 such that r and N are relatively prime and ℤ is the set of all integers. In this paper, we construct wavelet frame over the translation set Λ on L2(ℝ). We call it nonuniform wavelet frame. We establish necessary and sufficient condition for such wavelet frame. An example is presented at the end.
Diagnostic Value of Serum Lactate Dehydrogenase Isoenzyme and Amino Acid Patterns in Several Schistosomal and Non‐Schistosomal Disorders as Compared to other Biochemical Parameters
Authors: Ahmed Samia A. , Gad Mohamed Z.
Published: February 2015

Serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzyme and amino acid (a. a) patterns were evaluated in comparison to several other biochemical parameters for liver and renal function with the objective of clarifying the differential diagnosis of hepatic disorders and predicting the outcome of schistosomal infection in Egyptian patients. Patients examined included those with complicated hepatic disorders and others with different stages of schistosomal infestation, hepatoma or bladder cancer, in addition to a normal control group. Several biochemical parameters appeared to be useful in establishing consistent differences or similarities between the studied groups. Examples are; elevated serum AST/ AL T ratio and methionine content in chronic schistosomiasis, elevated serum urea/creatinine ratio and leucine content in all schistosomal patients and extremely high levels of N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG) in the urine of non‐schistosomal bladder cancer patients. In addition, characteristic LDH isoenzyme profiles distinguish between the studied groups, in particular separating chronic schistosomiasis from schistosomal bladder cancer and hepatoma from other hepatic disorders.
Basal Ganglia Disease and Visuospatial Cognition: Are There Disease-Specific Impairments?
Authors: Mohr Erich , Claus Jules J. , Brouwers Pim
Published: February 2015

Visuospatial deficits in basal ganglia disease may be a non-specific function of the severity of dementia or they could reflect disease-specific impairments. To examine this question, Huntington (HD) patients, demented and non-demented Parkinson (PD) patients and healthy controls were examined with neuropsychological tests emphasising visuospatial abilities. Global intellectual function and general visuospatial cognition were less efficient in the two demented patient groups relative to both controls and non-demented PD patients and they did not differ significantly between non-demented Parkinsonians and controls nor between demented PD and HD patients. However, HD patients but not demented PD patients were impaired on a test of person-centred spatial judgement compared to non-demented subjects while demented PD patients scored significantly lower than HD patients on a test of field independence. Factor analysis yielded a factor reflecting general visuospatial processing capacity which discriminated between demented and non-demented PD patients but not between demented PD and HD patients. A unique factor associated with the manipulation of person-centred space discriminated between demented PD and HD patients. These results suggest general visuospatial processing is impaired as a non-specific function of dementia presence in HD and PD. Abnormalities in circumscribed aspects of visuospatial function, on the other hand, may differentiate between HD and PD, suggesting differential involvement of the basal ganglia in the respective illnesses.
Aqueous Cytokines as Predictors of Macular Edema in Patients with Diabetes following Uncomplicated Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery
Authors: Dong Ning , Xu Bing , Wang Bingsong , Chu Liqun , Tang Xin
Published: February 2015

This study aims to ascertain whether cytokines in the aqueous humor can predict macular edema (ME) in diabetic patients following uncomplicated phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Undiluted aqueous humor samples were obtained from 136 consecutive type 2 diabetic patients who underwent cataract surgery. The concentrations of 27 cytokines were measured in aqueous humor using the multiplex bead immunoassay. At the final follow-up examination, 116 patients completed 4 weeks of follow-up, and the incidence of macular edema was 29.31% (34 patients) 4 weeks after cataract surgery. Compared to the ME (−) patients, the concentrations of interleukin-1β(IL-1β) (P<0.001), IL-6 (P<0.001), IL-8 (P<0.001), interferon-induced protein-10 (IP-10) (P=0.003), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) (P<0.001), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (P<0.001) in the ME (+) patients were significantly higher. In addition, the aqueous levels of IL-1β(r=0.288), IL-6 (r=0.345), IL-8 (r=0.256), IP-10 (r=0.377), MCP-1 (r=0.423), and VEGF (r=0.279) were positively correlated with the postoperative foveal center point thickness (FCPT). However, the aqueous levels of IL-10 (P=0.003) and IL-12 (P=0.017) were significantly lower in patients with ME. These results suggest IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, IP-10, MCP-1, and VEGF may be potential predictors of postoperative macular thickness in patients with diabetes following uncomplicated phacoemulsification cataract surgery.
Synthesis of Novel Fluorescent Sensors Based on Naphthalimide Fluorophores for the Highly Selective Hg2+-Sensing
Authors: Tachapermpon Yordkhuan , Piyanuch Pornthip , Prapawattanapol Narupon , Sukrat Kanjarat , Suwatpipat Kullatat , Wanichacheva Nantanit
Published: February 2015

With an aim to develop the new sensors for optical detection of Hg2+ions, two novel fluorometric sensors were designed and successfully prepared using 2-(3-(2-aminoethylsulfanyl)propylsulfanyl)ethanamine and one or twoN-methylnaphthalimide moieties (1and2). Sensor1was obtained viaN-alkylation,N-imidation and a one-pot nucleophilic aromatic substitution, andN-formylation of the amine, while sensor2was prepared viaN-alkylation,N-imidation, and nucleophilic aromatic substitution. The characterization, including1H NMR,13C NMR, and mass spectrometry, was then performed for1and2. The Hg2+-binding behaviors of the sensors were investigated in terms of sensitivity and selectivity by fluorescence spectroscopy. Sensor1especially provided the reversible and highly Hg2+-selective ON-OFF fluorescence behavior by discriminating various interfering ions such as Pb2+, Co2+, Cd2+, Mn2+, Fe2+, K+, Na+, and in particular Cu2+and Ag+with a detection limit of 22 ppb toward Hg2+ions.
Development of Monoclonal Antibodies in China: Overview and Prospects
Authors: Zhang Mao-Yu , Lu Jin-Jian , Wang Liang , Gao Zi-Chao , Hu Hao , Ung Carolina Oi Lam , Wang Yi-Tao
Published: February 2015

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have become increasingly important as human therapeutic agents. Yet, current research concentrates on technology itself and pays attention to developed countries. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of mAbs development in China through systematic analysis of drug registry, patent applications, clinical trials, academic publication, and ongoing R&D projects. The trends in therapeutic areas and industrialization process are also highlighted. Development and research trends of mAbs are analyzed to provide a future perspective of mAbs as therapeutic agents in China.
Polymorphism inLEPandLEPRMay Modify Leptin Levels and Represent Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Marcello Marjory Alana , Calixto Antonio Ramos , de Almeida Jacqueline Fatima Martins , Martins Mariana Bonjiorno , Cunha Lucas Leite , Cavalari Camila Ayume Amano , Etchebehere Elba C. S. , Assumpção Ligia Vera Montalli da , Geloneze Bruno , Carvalho Andre Lopes , Ward Laura Sterian
Published: February 2015

Purpose.To understand the role of polymorphisms in the LEP (rs7799039 and rs2167270) and LEPR (rs1137101 and rs1137100) genes in DTC susceptibility and their effect on leptin levels.Methods.We studied 153 patients with DTC and 234 controls through TaqMan SNP Genotyping and ELISA, comparing these data to the clinicopathological data of patients with DTC.Results.Patients with AA genotype of rs7799039 had higher levels of serum leptin (9.22±0.98 ng/mL) than those with AG genotype (10.07±0.60 ng/mL;P=0.005). Individuals with AG genotype of rs2167270 also produced higher serum leptin levels (10.05±0.59 ng/mL) than the subjects with GG genotype (9.52±0.79 ng/mL;P<0.05). A multivariate logistic regression adjusted for gender, age, and BMI showed that the AG genotype of rs7799039 was an independent risk for DTC (OR, 11.689;P=0.0183; 95% CI, 1.516–90.119). Similarly, AG and GG genotypes of rs1137101 increased the susceptibility to DTC (OR, 3.747;P=0.027; 95% CI, 1.161–12.092 and OR, 5.437;P=0.013; 95% CI, 1.426–20.729).Conclusions.We demonstrated that rs7799039 and rs2167270 polymorphisms modify the serum leptin concentrations in patients with DTC. Furthermore, polymorphisms rs7799039 and rs1137101 increase the risk of DTC development, although they do not correlate with tumor aggressiveness.
Effect ofL/DRatio on the Performance of Two-Lobe Pressure Dam Bearing: Micropolar Lubricated
Authors: Sharma Sanyam , Krishna C. M.
Published: February 2015

Two-lobe pressure dam bearings are commonly used in high speed rotating machineries. Their use is considered more stable than plain cylindrical bearings. Such bearings have a dam in the upper half whereas the lower half is provided with a relief track. Performance of two-lobe pressure dam bearings under micropolar fluid is evaluated. Finite element method is used to solve the modified Reynolds equation. Fluid film pressures are obtained by solving modified Reynolds equation. Thus pressure obtained is used to find performance characteristics of this bearing. The dynamic performance characteristics are studied at variousL/Dratios. ThreeL/Dratios are considered 1.6, 2.0, and 2.4 for the analysis purpose. Results obtained are presented for various micropolar parameters. Results show that stability of two-lobe pressure dam bearings increases with decrease in aspect ratio (L/D).
Delayed Replantation of Avulsed Teeth: Two Case Reports
Authors: Savas Selcuk , Kucukyilmaz Ebru , Akcay Merve , Koseoglu Serhat
Published: February 2015

This case report presents two cases of delayed replantation of avulsed maxillary central incisors after an extended dry extra-alveolar period. Eight-year-old boy and 10-year-old boy presented with avulsed maxillary central incisors due to trauma occurring 27 and 7 hours earlier, respectively. Treatment guidelines for avulsed mature/immature permanent teeth with prolonged extra-oral time were carried out for the teeth and the extra-oral endodontic treatment was completed. After having been repositioned, the teeth were stabilized for 4 weeks and prophylactic antibiotic was prescribed. Clinical and radiographic controls were done after 18 months for Case I and 12 months for Case II. During the follow-up periods the teeth reported in these cases have remained in a stable, functional position but revealed clinical initial replacement resorption and ankylosis.
The Influence of Electromagnetic Pollution on Living Organisms: Historical Trends and Forecasting Changes
Authors: Redlarski Grzegorz , Lewczuk Bogdan , Żak Arkadiusz , Koncicki Andrzej , Krawczuk Marek , Piechocki Janusz , Jakubiuk Kazimierz , Tojza Piotr , Jaworski Jacek , Ambroziak Dominik , Skarbek Łukasz , Gradolewski Dawid
Published: February 2015

Current technologies have become a source of omnipresent electromagnetic pollution from generated electromagnetic fields and resulting electromagnetic radiation. In many cases this pollution is much stronger than any natural sources of electromagnetic fields or radiation. The harm caused by this pollution is still open to question since there is no clear and definitive evidence of its negative influence on humans. This is despite the fact that extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields were classified as potentially carcinogenic. For these reasons, in recent decades a significant growth can be observed in scientific research in order to understand the influence of electromagnetic radiation on living organisms. However, for this type of research the appropriate selection of relevant model organisms is of great importance. It should be noted here that the great majority of scientific research papers published in this field concerned various tests performed on mammals, practically neglecting lower organisms. In that context the objective of this paper is to systematise our knowledge in this area, in which the influence of electromagnetic radiation on lower organisms was investigated, including bacteria,E. coliandB. subtilis, nematode,Caenorhabditis elegans, land snail,Helix pomatia, common fruit fly,Drosophila melanogaster, and clawed frog,Xenopus laevis.
Herb-Partitioned Moxibustion and the miRNAs Related to Crohn’s Disease: A Study Based on Rat Models
Authors: Wei Kai , Zhang Dan , Hong Jue , Zhang Cuihong , Feng Xiaoming , Huang Yan , Liu Jie , Wu Lingxiang , Wu Huangan , Ma Xiaopeng
Published: February 2015

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a major subtype of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Herb-partitioned moxibustion (HPM) has been proven to be effective in treating CD by a large amount of clinical and experimental researches. MiRNAs (microRNAs) are increasingly recognized as important posttranscriptional regulators of inflammatory genes. In this study, we established experimental CD rat models and investigated the miRNAs associated with the onset of experimental CD; then, we further identified CD-related miRNAs that were regulated by HPM and explored the relationship between CD and the potential target genes of involved miRNAs. We found that miR-147 and miR-205 were significantly downregulated in colons of experimental CD rats and may be closely associated with the onset of experimental CD. HPM may extenuate inflammatory responses in colons and ameliorate colonic damages in CD via upregulating the expression of miR-147 and miR-205 and then further downregulating the expression of inflammation-related mRNAs, negatively regulating inflammatory signal pathways, and reducing the production of downstream inflammatory cytokines.
Initial Validation of Mobile-Structural Health Monitoring Method Using Smartphones
Authors: Yu Yan , Han Ruicong , Zhao Xuefeng , Mao Xingquan , Hu Weitong , Jiao Dong , Li Mingchu , Ou Jinping
Published: February 2015

The structural health monitoring system has made great development nowadays, especially on bridge structures. Meanwhile, most SHM systems reported were designed, integrated, and installed into large-scale infrastructures by professionals and equipped with expensive sensors, data acquisition devices, data transfer systems, and so forth. And it is impossible to install SHM system for every civilian building. For this status, a kind of new idea for structural health monitoring using smartphone is introduced in this paper. A smartphone, with embedded responding SHM software and inner sensors or external sensors, can be used not only as a single wireless sensor node but also as a mini-SHM system. The method is described in detail, and then the swing test, cable force test in laboratory, and cable force test on an actual bridge based on the iPhone were conducted to validate the proposed method. The experimental results show that Mobile-SHM using smartphone is feasible. The realization of Mobile-SHM method using smartphones may be considered as a milestone in making SHM popular in the lives of people.
Simulation of a TRIGA Reactor Core Blockage Using RELAP5 Code
Authors: Reis Patrícia A. L. , Costa Antonella L. , Pereira Claubia , Veloso Maria Auxiliadora F. , Mesquita Amir Z.
Published: February 2015

Cases of core coolant flow blockage transient have been simulated and analysed for the TRIGA IPR-R1 research reactor using the RELAP5-MOD3.3 code. The transients are related to partial and to total obstruction of the core coolant channels. The reactor behaviour after the loss of flow was analysed as well as the changes in the coolant and fuel temperatures. The behaviour of the thermal hydraulic parameters from the transient simulations was analysed. For a partial blockage, it was observed that the reactor reaches a new steady state operation with new values for the thermal hydraulic parameters. The total core blockage brings the reactor to an abnormal operation causing increase in core temperature.
Theoretical and Phenomenological Status of Neutrino Physics: A Brief Review
Authors: Verma Surender
Published: February 2015

We present an overview of recent progress in the theoretical and phenomenological studies of neutrino masses, lepton avor mixing, and CP violation. Firstly, We discuss the status of neutrino mass with in the Standard Model (SM) of particle physics. Then the possible ways in which neutrino mass terms can be included in the SM are discussed. The inclusion of new physics beyond the SM inevitably brings new parameters which are not constrained by the present experimental data on neutrino masses and mixing angles and, thus, are free parameters of the theory. We, also, discuss various theoretically motivated phenomenological approaches which can be used to reduce the number of free parameters and, thus, provide an excellent tool to understand the underlying physics of neutrino masses and mixings. Current experimental constraints on the neutrino mass spectrum and the lepton avor mixing parameters, including the recent observation of nonzeroθ13, have been summarized. Finally, We discuss the renewed interest in the possible existence of one or more sterile neutrinos and their phenomenology.
System Identification of Heat-Transfer Process of Frequency Induction Furnace for Melting Copper Based on Particle Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Jia Zhi-gang , Wang Xing-xuan
Published: February 2015

An adaptive evolutionary strategy in standard particle swarm optimization is introduced. Adaptive evolution particle swarm optimization is constructed to improve the capacity of global search. A method based on adaptive evolution particle swarm optimization for identification of continuous system with time delay is proposed. The basic idea is that the identification of continuous system with time delay is converted to an optimization of continuous nonlinear function. The adaptive evolution particle swarm optimization is utilized to find an optimal solution of continuous nonlinear function. Convergence conditions are given by the convergence analysis based on discrete time linear dynamic system theory. Numerical simulation results show that the proposed method is effective for a general continuous system with time delay and the system of heat-transfer process of frequency induction furnace for melting copper.
Neuroplasticity Underlying the Comorbidity of Pain and Depression
Authors: Doan Lisa , Manders Toby , Wang Jing
Published: February 2015

Acute pain induces depressed mood, and chronic pain is known to cause depression. Depression, meanwhile, can also adversely affect pain behaviors ranging from symptomology to treatment response. Pain and depression independently induce long-term plasticity in the central nervous system (CNS). Comorbid conditions, however, have distinct patterns of neural activation. We performed a review of the changes in neural circuitry and molecular signaling pathways that may underlie this complex relationship between pain and depression. We also discussed some of the current and future therapies that are based on this understanding of the CNS plasticity that occurs with pain and depression.
FluorescenceIn SituHybridization forMDM2Amplification as a Routine Ancillary Diagnostic Tool for Suspected Well-Differentiated and Dedifferentiated Liposarcomas: Experience at a Tertiary Center
Authors: Thway Khin , Wang Jayson , Swansbury John , Min Toon , Fisher Cyril
Published: February 2015

Background. The assessment ofMDM2gene amplification by fluorescencein situhybridization (FISH) has become a routine ancillary tool for diagnosing atypical lipomatous tumor (ALT)/well-differentiated liposarcoma and dedifferentiated liposarcoma (WDL/DDL) in specialist sarcoma units. We describe our experience of its utility at our tertiary institute.Methods. All routine histology samples in whichMDM2amplification was assessed with FISH over a 2-year period were included, and FISH results were correlated with clinical and histologic findings.Results. 365 samples from 347 patients had FISH forMDM2gene amplification. 170 were positive (i.e., showedMDM2gene amplification), 192 were negative, and 3 were technically unsatisfactory. There were 122 histologically benign cases showing a histology:FISH concordance rate of 92.6%, 142 WDL/DDL (concordance 96.5%), and 34 cases histologically equivocal for WDL (concordance 50%). Of 64 spindle cell/pleomorphic neoplasms (in which DDL was a differential diagnosis), 21.9% showedMDM2amplification. Of the cases with discrepant histology and FISH, all but 3 had diagnoses amended following FISH results. For discrepancies of benign histology but positive FISH, lesions were on average larger, more frequently in “classical” (intra-abdominal or inguinal) sites for WDL/DDL and more frequently core biopsies. Discrepancies of malignant histology but negative FISH were smaller, less frequently in “classical” sites but again more frequently core biopsies.Conclusions. FISH has a high correlation rate with histology for cases with firm histologic diagnoses of lipoma or WDL/DDL. It is a useful ancillary diagnostic tool in histologically equivocal cases, particularly in WDL lacking significant histologic atypia or DDL without corresponding WDL component, especially in larger tumors, those from intra-abdominal or inguinal sites or core biopsies. There is a significant group of well-differentiated adipocytic neoplasms which are difficult to diagnose on morphology alone, in which FISH forMDM2amplification is diagnostically contributory.
Upper Limb Ischemic Gangrene as a Complication of Hemodialysis Access
Authors: Cawich Shamir O. , Mohammed Emil , Mencia Marlon , Naraynsingh Vijay
Published: February 2015

Upper limb ischemia is a well-recognized complication of dialysis access creation but progression to gangrene is uncommon. We report a case of upper limb ischemic gangrene and discuss the lessons learned during the management of this case. Clinicians must be vigilant for this complication and they should be reminded that it requiresurgentmanagement to prevent tissue loss.
Ectopic Compound Odontoma in the Buccal Mucosa: Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Venigalla Aparna , Guttikonda Leela Krishna , Nelakurthi Hasini , Babburi Suresh , Pinisetti Soujanya , Kotti Ajay Banerji , Kalapala Lavanya
Published: February 2015

Eruption of tooth into extraosseous locations is an extremely rare condition. We report a case of a six-year-old girl child with tooth-like structure erupting from the right buccal mucosa. Clinical, radiographic, and histopathologic examination suggested the diagnosis of compound odontoma. Very few cases have been reported so far, where tooth has been located completely in the soft tissue and a variety of names have been used for that condition. A brief review of the literature and the ambiguity in naming the situation is discussed.
Metastatic Extrapulmonary Small Cell Carcinoma to the Cerebellopontine Angle: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Theodros Debebe , Goodwin C. Rory , Crane Genevieve M. , Liauw Jason , Kleinberg Lawrence , Lim Michael
Published: February 2015

Extrapulmonary small cell carcinomas (EPSCC) are rare malignancies with poor patient prognoses. We present the case of a 63-year-old male who underwent surgical resection of a poorly differentiated small cell carcinoma, likely from a small intestinal primary tumor that metastasized to the cerebellopontine angle (CPA). A 63-year-old male presented with mild left facial paralysis, hearing loss, and balance instability. MRI revealed a 15 mm mass in the left CPA involving the internal auditory canal consistent with a vestibular schwannoma. Preoperative MRI eight weeks later demonstrated marked enlargement to 35 mm. The patient underwent a suboccipital craniectomy and the mass was grossly different visually and in consistency from a standard vestibular schwannoma. The final pathology revealed a poorly differentiated small cell carcinoma. Postoperative PET scan identified avid uptake in the small intestine suggestive of either a small intestinal primary tumor or additional metastatic disease. The patient underwent whole brain radiation therapy and chemotherapy and at last follow-up demonstrated improvement in his symptoms. Surgical resection and radiotherapy are potential treatment options to improve survival in patients diagnosed with NET brain metastases. We present the first documented case of skull base metastasis of a poorly differentiated small cell carcinoma involving the CPA.
Associations ofLIG4andHSPB1Genetic Polymorphisms with Risk of Radiation-Induced Lung Injury in Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Radiotherapy
Authors: Xu Feng , Han Ji-Chang , Zhang Ya-Jun , Zhang Yi-Jie , Liu Xiao-Chun , Qi Guan-Bin , Liu Dan , Chen Yan-Zhi , Zhao Yu-Xia , Bai Lu
Published: February 2015

Objective.This study aims to explore the correlations of genetic polymorphisms inLIG4andHSPB1genes with the radiation-induced lung injury (RILI), especially radiation pneumonitis (RP), in lung cancer patients.Methods.A total of 160 lung cancer patients, who were diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer and received radiotherapy, were included in the present study from September 2009 to December 2011. TaqMan Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR) was used to verify the SNPs ofLIG4andHSPB1genes. Chi-square criterion was used to compare the differences in demographic characteristics, exposure to risk factors, and SNPs genotypes. Crude odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated by logistic regression analysis. All statistical analyses were conducted in SPSS 18.0.Results.A total of 32 (20.0%) lung cancer patients had RP after receiving radiotherapy. Of the 32 cases, 4 cases were of grade 2, 24 cases were of grade 3, and 4 cases were of grade 4. However, our results indicated that the general condition and treatment of all patients had no significant difference with RP risk(P>0.05). Meanwhile, our results revealed that there was no significant association between the frequencies ofLIG4 rs1805388andHSPB1 rs2868371genotype distribution and the risk of RP(P>0.05).Conclusion.In conclusion, we demonstrated that the genetic polymorphisms inLIG4 rs1805388andHSPB1 rs2868371were not obviously correlated with the risk of RP and RILI of lung cancer.
Quantitative Analysis of Lung Ultrasonography for the Detection of Community-Acquired Pneumonia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Corradi Francesco , Brusasco Claudia , Garlaschi Alessandro , Paparo Francesco , Ball Lorenzo , Santori Gregorio , Pelosi Paolo , Altomonte Fiorella , Vezzani Antonella , Brusasco Vito
Published: February 2015

Background and Objective. Chest X-ray is recommended for routine use in patients with suspected pneumonia, but its use in emergency settings is limited. In this study, the diagnostic performance of a new method for quantitative analysis of lung ultrasonography was compared with bedside chest X-ray and visual lung ultrasonography for detection of community-acquired pneumonia, using thoracic computed tomography as a gold standard.Methods. Thirty-two spontaneously breathing patients with suspected community-acquired pneumonia, undergoing computed tomography examination, were consecutively enrolled. Each hemithorax was evaluated for the presence or absence of abnormalities by chest X-ray and quantitative or visual ultrasonography.Results. Quantitative ultrasonography showed higher sensitivity (93%), specificity (95%), and diagnostic accuracy (94%) than chest X-ray (64%, 80%, and 69%, resp.), visual ultrasonography (68%, 95%, and 77%, resp.), or their combination (77%, 75%, and 77%, resp.).Conclusions. Quantitative lung ultrasonography was considerably more accurate than either chest X-ray or visual ultrasonography in the diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia and it may represent a useful first-line approach for confirmation of clinical diagnosis in emergency settings.
A Microwave-Based Chemical Factory in the Lab: From Milligram to Multigram Preparations
Authors: Rinaldi Laura , Carnaroglio Diego , Rotolo Laura , Cravotto Giancarlo
Published: February 2015

Microwave technology is changing the way we design and optimize synthetic protocols and their scaling up to multigram production levels. The latest generation of dedicated microwave reactors enables operators to quickly screen reaction conditions by means of parallel tests and select the best catalyst, solvent, and conditions. Pilot scale synthetic procedures require flow-through conditions in microwave flow reactors which can be obtained by adapting classic batch protocols. Microwave-assisted chemical processes play a pivotal role in the design of sustainable multigram preparations which address the double requirement of process intensification and competitive production costs. Although most researchers are likely to be acquainted with the great potential of dielectric heating, the advantages and disadvantages of a particular device or the conditions needed to maximize efficiency and functionality are often overlooked. The double aims of the present review are to provide a panoramic snapshot of commercially available lab microwave reactors and their features as well as highlighting a few selected applications of microwave chemistry of particular relevance.
Morphometric Analysis of Lumbar Pedicles in Patients with Spinal Dysraphism
Authors: Engelberg Rachel B. , Roguski Marie , Riesenburger Ron I. , Do-Dai Daniel , Jea Andrew , Hwang Steven W.
Published: February 2015

Background: In patients with open neural tube defects, the incidence of scoliosis and requirement for spinal fusions are increased. Historically, there has been no standardized measurement of vertebral morphometry in these patients. However, anecdotally, patients with open neural tube defects have a more medially oriented lumbar pedicle trajectory than the average population. Methods: A single-institution retrospective review of patients with open neural tube defects was conducted. The demographic parameters and functional and anatomical levels of the defects were noted. CT and MRI scans of the lumbar spine were analyzed; the pedicles from L1 to S1 were measured for width (W), length (L) and midline angle (α). The measurements were compared bilaterally, at each level, and with data from previously published reports. Results: 16 scans of pediatric patients (mean = 3.0 ± 4.3; age range = 7 days to 14.4 years; 7 males, 9 females) with a diagnosis of either myelomeningocele or lipomyelomeningocele were assessed. Most defects occurred in the lumbar region, with L2 and L5 accounting for 37.5% each. All angles demonstrated a quadratic increase from L1 to S1 (means: L1 = 28.3 ± 5.24°; L2 = 29.1 ± 6.2°; L3 = 33.2 ± 6.0°; L4 = 36.8 ± 5.6°; L5 = 43.8 ± 5.9°; S1 = 52.0 ± 3.6°) and were more medially angulated than those reported previously; no significant difference existed between right and left measurements (W = 0.65 ≤ p ≤ 0.94; L = 0.91 ≤ p ≤ 1; α = 0.24 ≤ p ≤ 0.86). Conclusions: Patients with open neural tube defects had more medially angled pedicle trajectories in the lumbar spine when compared to previously reported values.
Pediatric Glioblastoma Multiforme in Association with Turner's Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Hanaei Sara , Habibi Zohreh , Nejat Farideh , Sayarifard Fatemeh , Vasei Mohammad
Published: February 2015

The Ullrich-Turner syndrome (complete or partial X-chromosome monosomy) has been found to be associated with an increased rate of some extragonadal neoplasms. Sporadic reports of the Turner syndrome with various brain tumors, including few cases of glioblastoma multiforme, have been found in the literature. However, published data are insufficient to establish a definite relationship between these tumors and the Turner syndrome. Herein, a rare case of primary pediatric glioblastoma multiforme in a 7-year-old girl with Turner's syndrome is reported, and various aspects regarding clinical and pathophysiological issues have been discussed. Although Turner's syndrome is not one of the congenital chromosomal abnormalities which demand routine CNS screening, neurological assessment may be of value in those with relevant clinical findings.