bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A NOVEL ANTI-ESTROGEN RECEPTOR TARGETED WATER-SOLUBLE QDs FOR BREAST CANCER CELL IMMUNOFLUORESCENT LABELING
Authors: REN XING , HUANG HAILONG , WANG JINGYUAN , SUN GUANG , XU ZHELI
Published: June 2014

This research is aimed to develop a novel kind of biomarker based on water-soluble quantum dots (QDs) conjugated with estrogen receptor (ER) for the detection of breast cancer (BC). To achieve the purpose, hydrophobic octadecylamine-coated QDs were encapsulated with amphiphilic biocompatible centipede-like polymer p(aspartate)- Na -graft-p(ethylene glycol)-dodecylamine (PASP- Na -g-PEG-DDA), and then modified with ER monoclonal antibodies, which is one of the most popular biomarkers for the detection and management of breast cancer worldwide. The targeted QDs kept the original optical property of QDs. The cytotoxicity in vitro experiments showed that QDs-ER probes had no obvious toxic side effects. Remarkably, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) revealed that the localized fluorescence appeared around the nucleus of human breast cancer cell MCF7 (ER positive) compared with that of human breast cancer cell MBA-MD-231 (ER negative). According to the above analysis, this new kind of probe has great potential in the diagnosis of breast tumor in vitro in future clinical application.
Deep tissue imaging by enhanced photon collection
Authors: Crosignani Viera , Jahid Sohail , Dvornikov Alexander , Gratton Enrico
Published: June 2014

We have developed a two-photon fluorescence microscope capable of imaging up to 4mm in turbid media with micron resolution. The key feature of this instrument is the innovative detector, capable of collecting emission photons from a wider surface area of the sample than detectors in traditional two-photon microscopes. This detection scheme is extremely efficient in the collection of emitted photons scattered by turbid media which allows eight fold increase in the imaging depth when compared with conventional two-photon microscopes. Furthermore, this system also has in-depth fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) imaging capability which increases image contrast. The detection scheme captures emission light in a transmission configuration, making it extremely efficient for the detection of second harmonic generation (SHG) signals, which is generally forward propagating. Here we present imaging experiments of tissue phantoms and in vivo and ex vivo biological tissue performed with this microscope.
Simultaneously measuring ocular aberration and anterior segment biometry during accommodation
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Shao Yilei , Yuan Yimin
Published: June 2014

In the human eye, accommodation is essential for functional vision. However, the mechanisms regulating accommodation and the ocular parameters affecting aberrations remain to be explored. In order to measure the alterations of ocular aberration and crystalline lens biometry during dynamic accommodative stimuli, we designed an optical coherence tomography with ultra-long penetration depth (UL-OCT) combined with a Shack–Hartmann wavefront sensor (SHWFS). This integrated set up measures human eye's anterior segment as well as monochromatic high-order aberrations (HOAs) with 6 μm resolution and (1/20) λ accuracy. A total of 10 healthy volunteers without ocular diseases were examined. Upon exposure to accommodative stimuli, the wavefront aberrations became larger. Among the anterior segment biometry, the anterior crystalline lens demonstrated significant curvature during accommodation and was the major cause of high-order aberration. These findings suggest that the front surface of the crystalline lens can significantly affect variation among aberrations, which is a key factor underlying the quality of human vision.
Improvement of tissue analysis and classification using optical coherence tomography combined with Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Liu Chih-Hao , Qi Ji , Lu Jing , Wang Shang , Wu Chen , Shih Wei-Chuan , Larin Kirill V.
Published: June 2014

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides significant advantages of high resolution (approaching the histopathology level) real-time imaging of tissues without use of contrast agents. Based on these advantages, the microstructural features of tumors can be visualized and detected intra-operatively. However, it is still not clinically accepted for tumor margin delineation due to poor specificity and accuracy. In contrast, Raman spectroscopy (RS) can obtain tissue information at the molecular level, but does not provide real-time imaging capability. Therefore, combining OCT and RS could provide synergy. To this end, we present a tissue analysis and classification method using both the slope of OCT intensity signal vs depth and the principle components from the RS spectrum as the indicators for tissue characterization. The goal of this study was to understand prediction accuracy of OCT and combined OCT/RS method for classification of optically similar tissues and organs. Our pilot experiments were performed on mouse kidneys, livers, and small intestines (SIs). The prediction accuracy with five-fold cross validation of the method has been evaluated by the support vector machine (SVM) method. The results demonstrate that tissue characterization based on the OCT/RS method was superior compared to using OCT structural information alone. This combined OCT/RS method is potentially useful as a noninvasive optical biopsy technique for rapid and automatic tissue characterization during surgery.
Chapter 11 Volcano geodesy at the Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat: a review
Authors: Odbert Henry M. , Ryan Graham A. , Mattioli Glen S. , Hautmann Stefanie , Gottsmann Joachim , Fournier Nicholas , Herd Richard A.
Published: June 2014

Geodetic surveying is a core volcano monitoring technique. Measurements of how the crust deforms can give valuable insight into the mechanisms and processes that drive an eruption, and the way in which they change. Various geodetic observables, including ground deformation and gravity changes, have been recorded on Montserrat throughout the eruption. Instrumentation and surveying networks used to make such measurements have evolved significantly since 1995, providing increasingly accurate and robust observations. The detailed research that has been facilitated by these rich geodetic datasets has illuminated many aspects of the Soufrière Hills Volcano (SHV) and demonstrated eruptive mechanisms that are relevant to the study of other volcanoes. We have compiled a history of the geodetic study of the eruption on Montserrat, detailing the development of surveying techniques, network design and data processing since 1995. We then underline some of the key geodetic observations and review some of the most significant research that has contributed to our understanding of this volcanic system. Finally, we apply a series of typical deformation inversion models to deformation observations, and discuss the parameter sensitivity of such modelling approaches and how confidently they can be applied to identify the characteristics of the mechanisms feeding the eruption.
Chapter 15 The SEA-CALIPSO volcano imaging experiment at Montserrat: plans, campaigns at sea and on land, scientific results, and lessons learned
Authors: Voight B. , Sparks R. S. J. , Shalev E. , Minshull T. , Paulatto M. , Annen C. , Kenedi C. , Hammond J. , Henstock T. J. , Brown L. , Kiddle E. , Malin P. , Mattioli G. , Ammon C. , Arias-Dotson E. , Belousov A. , Byerly K. , Carothers L. , Clarke A. , Dean S. , Ellett L. , Elsworth D. , Hidayat D. , Herd R. A. , Johnson M. , Lee A. , Miller V. , Murphy B. , Peirce C. , Ryan G. , Saldana S. , Snelson C. , Stewart R. , Syers R. , Taron J. , Trofimovs J. , Widiwijayanti C. , Young S. R. , Zamora W.
Published: June 2014

Since 1995 the eruption of the andesitic Soufrière Hills Volcano (SHV), Montserrat, has been studied in substantial detail. As an important contribution to this effort, the Seismic Experiment with Airgunsource-Caribbean Andesitic Lava Island Precision Seismo-geodetic Observatory (SEA-CALIPSO) experiment was devised to image the arc crust underlying Montserrat, and, if possible, the magma system at SHV using tomography and reflection seismology. Field operations were carried out in October–December 2007, with deployment of 238 seismometers on land supplementing seven volcano observatory stations, and with an array of 10 ocean-bottom seismometers deployed offshore. The RRS
James Cook
on NERC cruise JC19 towed a tuned airgun array plus a digital 48-channel streamer on encircling and radial tracks for 77 h about Montserrat during December 2007, firing 4414 airgun shots and yielding about 47 Gb of data. The main objecctives of the experiment were achieved. Preliminary analyses of these data published in 2010 generated images of heterogeneous high-velocity bodies representing the cores of volcanoes and subjacent intrusions, and shallow areas of low velocity on the flanks of the island that reflect volcaniclastic deposits and hydrothermal alteration. The resolution of this preliminary work did not extend beyond 5 km depth. An improved three-dimensional (3D) seismic velocity model was then obtained by inversion of 181 665 first-arrival travel times from a more-complete sampling of the dataset, yielding clear images to 7.5 km depth of a low-velocity volume that was interpreted as the magma chamber which feeds the current eruption, with an estimated volume 13 km
3
. Coupled thermal and seismic modelling revealed properties of the partly crystallized magma. Seismic reflection analyses aimed at imaging structures under southern Montserrat had limited success, and suggest subhorizontal layering interpreted as sills at a depth of between 6 and 19 km. Seismic reflection profiles collected offshore reveal deep fans of volcaniclastic debris and fault offsets, leading to new tectonic interpretations. This chapter presents the project goals and planning concepts, describes in detail the campaigns at sea and on land, summarizes the major results, and identifies the key lessons learned.
Chapter 16 Pre-eruptive vapour and its role in controlling eruption style and longevity at Soufrière Hills Volcano
Authors: Edmonds Marie , Humphreys Madeleine C. S. , Hauri Erik H. , Herd Richard A. , Wadge Geoff , Rawson Harriet , Ledden Rachel , Plail Melissa , Barclay Jenni , Aiuppa Alessandro , Christopher Thomas E. , Giudice Gaetano , Guida Roberto
Published: June 2014

We use volatiles in melt inclusions and nominally anhydrous phenocrysts, with volcanic gas flux and composition, and textural analysis of mafic inclusions to estimate the mass of exsolved vapour prior to eruption at Soufrière Hills Volcano (SHV). Pre-eruptive andesite coexists with exsolved vapour comprising 1.6–2.4 wt% of the bulk magma. The water content of orthopyroxenes indicates a zone of magma storage at pressures of approximately 200–300 MPa, whereas melt inclusions have equilibrated at shallower pressures. Inclusions containing >3 wt% H
2
O are enriched in CO
2
, suggesting flushing with CO
2
-rich gases. Intruding mafic magma contains >8 wt% H
2
O at 200–300 MPa. Rapid quenching is accompanied by crystallization and vesiculation. Upon entrainment into the andesite, mafic inclusions may undergo disaggregation, where expansion of volatiles in the interior overcomes the strength of the crystal frameworks, thereby recharging the vapour content of the andesite. Exsolved vapour may amount to 4.3–8.2 vol% at 300 MPa, with implications for eruption longevity and volume; we estimate the magma reservoir volume to be 60–200 km
3
. Exsolved vapour may account for the small volume change at depth during eruptions from geodetic models, and has implications for magma flow: exsolution is likely to be in equilibrium during rapid magma ascent, with little nucleation of new bubbles.
Chapter 19 Magma storage region processes of the Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat
Authors: Devine Joseph D. , Rutherford Malcolm J.
Published: June 2014

Backscattered electron (BSE) imaging and chemical analysis of minerals and glasses in andesitic tephra produced by the 11 February 2010 explosive eruption of the Soufrière Hills Volcano (SHV), Montserrat indicate that magma in the pre-existing magma storage region had been heated from approximately 825 to 835 °C prior to the eruption. The evidence for the heating comes from Fe–Ti oxide geothermometry, compositional zoning profiles in Ti-magnetite and in amphibole crystals, and the absence of quartz in this magma compared to eruptions in 1995–2005. Potentially, global heating of magma in the storage region may influence magma rheology and eruptive styles, and volumes of any future eruptions.

Addendum:

An appendix was added to the above article after the review process. This is contrary to the Society's requirements that all published material is peer-reviewed. The appendix discusses the work of other research groups in a way that the Society considers to be inappropriate. The research groups whose work is discussed contest the statements in the appendix and will submit a discussion to
Journal of the Geological Society
. Once the discussion is accepted and published in the journal, a reference to it will appear under the abstracts of the online Memoir chapter. In addition, the reference to Devine (2006) implies that it is a report. In fact it is an e-mail from Professor Devine to Dr Loughlin, then acting Director of MVO, part of which is quoted in the appendix, and should therefore not be considered part of the scientific literature.
Chapter 21 Controls on variations in cristobalite abundance in ash generated by the Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat in the period 1997 to 2010
Authors: Horwell C. J. , Hillman S. E. , Cole P. D. , Loughlin S. C. , Llewellin E. W. , Damby D. E. , Christopher T. E.
Published: June 2014

The Soufrière Hills Volcano (SHV) crystallizes cristobalite (crystalline silica) in its lava domes, and inhalation of cristobalite-rich ash may pose a chronic respiratory hazard. We investigate the causes of variation in cristobalite abundance (measured by X-ray diffraction) in ash from dome collapses, explosions and ash venting from 1997 to 2010.

Cristobalite abundance in bulk dome-collapse ash varies between 4 and 23 wt%. During periods of slow lava extrusion (<5 m
3
s
−1
), cristobalite is abundant (7–23 wt%), which we attribute to extensive devitrification in slow-cooling lava; it can also form rapidly (15 wt% in 2 months), but we find no correlation between cristobalite abundance and dome residence time (DRT). By contrast, during rapid extrusion (>5 m
3
s
−1
), cristobalite abundance is low (4–7 wt%, similar to that associated with Vulcanian explosions), and correlates strongly with DRT. We attribute this correlation to progressive vapour-phase mineralization or devitrification, and the lack of contamination by older lava. Cristobalite abundance is expected to be >7 wt% for collapse of slowly extruded lava, for ash venting through a dome or for incorporation of hydrothermally altered edifice during explosions; cristobalite abundance is expected to be <7 wt% for collapse of rapidly extruded lava, for ash venting without dome incorporation and from Vulcanian explosions at SHV.
Chapter 22 Evaluating the respiratory health risks of volcanic ash at the eruption of the Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat, 1995 to 2010
Authors: Baxter P. J. , Searl A. S. , Cowie H. A. , Jarvis D. , Horwell C. J.
Published: June 2014

The management and outcomes of the volcanic crisis on Montserrat, which began with the onset of activity at the Soufrière Hills Volcano (SHV) on 18 July 1995, might have been very different without the scientific precedents set by the Mount St Helens eruption, USA, on 18 May 1980, and the research advances that followed. This narrative is intended to show the steps taken by health scientists in response to the unfolding developments at the volcano to characterize the hazard presented by the volcanic ash and to devise mitigation measures to prevent the development of irreversible lung disease in the island population. Initial assessments of the health risk for silicosis were deterministic and based on industry exposure limits derived from published epidemiological and clinical studies of workers exposed to dusts containing free crystalline silica. However, by 2003, new research findings on the ash enabled the risk to be updated with a probabilistic approach incorporating the expertise of scientists from a wide range of disciplines including toxicology, volcanology and statistical modelling. The main outcome has been to provide reassurance to the islanders and policy makers that the chances of developing silicosis on Montserrat are very small given the preventive measures that were adopted during 1995–2010 and the change in style of the eruption.
Chapter 27 A note on geographical systems and maps of Montserrat
Authors: Odbert Henry M. , Grebby Stephen
Published: June 2014

It is often critically important that geospatial data are measured and mapped accurately, particularly for quantitative analyses and numerical modelling applications. Defining a geographical coordinate system requires a non-unique combination of geodetic techniques (e.g. ellipsoids, projections and geoids). The choice of geographical system presents scope for ambiguity and confusion about geographical data, especially those archived without appropriate metadata. Experience has shown that these confusions have been a repeating source of either frustration or inadvertent error for those using geographical data from Montserrat. This is, in part, probably due to common usage of multiple datums and the existence of numerous topographical datasets recorded during the past 150 years. Here, we attempt to provide a brief introduction to geodetic principles and their application to Montserrat geographical data. The differences between common datums are illustrated and we describe variations in magnetic declination as they apply to field use of magnetic instruments. We include a record of the source of the large-scale mapping datasets that have been used and analysed ubiquitously in the literature. The descriptions here are intended as an introductory reference resource for those using geographical data from Montserrat.
Flexible Die Design and Springback Compensation Based on Modified Displacement Adjustment Method
Authors: Seo Young-Ho , Park Ji-Woo , Song Woo-Jin , Kang Beom-Soo , Kim Jeong
Published: June 2014

Springback in metal forming process often results in undesirable shape changes in formed parts and leads to deterioration in product quality. Even though springback can be predicted and compensated for through the theories or methodologies established thus far, an increase in manufacturing cost accompanied by a change in die shape is inevitable. In the present paper, it is suggested that the cost accompanied with springback compensation can be minimized while allowing the processing of various three-dimensional curved surfaces by using a flexible die composed of multiple punches. With the die being very flexible, the iterative trial-and-error method can be readily applied to compensate for the springback. Thus, repeated designing and redesigning of solid or matched dies can be avoided, effectively saving considerable time. Only some adjustments of punch height are required. Detailed designs of the flexible die as well as two core algorithms to control the respective punch heights are described in this paper. In addition, a closed-loop system for the springback compensation using the flexible die is proposed. The amount of springback was simulated by a finite element analysis and the modified displacement adjustment (DA) method as the springback compensation model was used in the closed-loop system. This system was applied to a two-dimensional quadratic shape problem, and its robustness was verified by an experiment.
Mediators of Monocyte Migration in Response to Recovery Modalities following Resistance Exercise
Authors: Jajtner Adam R. , Fragala Maren S. , Townsend Jeremy R. , Gonzalez Adam M. , Wells Adam J. , Fukuda David H. , Stout Jeffrey R. , Hoffman Jay R.
Published: June 2014

Mediators of monocyte migration, complement receptor-3 (CR3), and chemokine ligand-4 (CCL4) were measured in response to recovery modalities following resistance exercise. Thirty resistance-trained men (23.1±2.9 y;175.2±7.1 cm;82.1±8.4 kg) were given neuromuscular electric stimulation (NMES), cold water immersion (CWI), or control (CON) treatments immediately following resistance exercise. Blood samples were obtained preexercise (PRE), immediately (IP), 30 minutes (30 P), 24 hours (24 H), and 48 hours (48 H) after exercise for measurement of circulating CCL4 and CR3 expression on CD14+ monocytes, by assay and flow cytometry. Circulating CCL4 showed no consistent changes. Inferential analysis indicated that CR3 expression was likely greater in CON at 30 P than NMES (90.0%) or CWI (86.8%). NMES was likely lower than CON at 24 H (92.9%) and very likely lower at 48 H (98.7%). Expression of CR3 following CWI was very likely greater than CON (96.5%) at 24 H. The proportion of CR3+ monocytes was likely greater following CWI than NMES (85.8%) or CON (85.2%) at 24 H. The change in proportion of CR3+ monocytes was likely (86.4%) greater following NMES than CON from IP to 30 P. The increased expression of CR3 and increased proportion of CR3+ monocytes following CWI at 24 H indicate a potentially improved ability for monocyte adhesion to the endothelium, possibly improving phagocytosis of damaged tissues.
Damage Detection of a Continuous Bridge from Response of a Moving Vehicle
Authors: Li Z. H. , Au F. T. K.
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a multistage multipass method to identify the damage location of a continuous bridge from the response of a vehicle moving on the rough road surface of the bridge. The vehicle runs over the bridge several times at different velocities and the corresponding responses of the vehicle can be obtained. The vertical accelerations of the vehicle running on the intact and damaged bridges are used for identification. The multistage damage detection method is implemented by the modal strain energy based method and genetic algorithm. The modal strain energy based method estimates the damage location by calculating a damage indicator from the frequencies extracted from the vehicle responses of both the intact and damaged states of the bridge. At the second stage, the identification problem is transformed into a global optimization problem and is solved by genetic algorithm techniques. For each pass of the vehicle, the method can identify the location of the damage until it is determined with acceptable accuracy. A two-span continuous bridge is used to verify the method. The numerical results show that this method can identify the location of damage reasonably well.
Analysis of the Gyroscopic Stability of the Wheelset
Authors: Dong Hao , Zeng Jing , Wu Liang , Dai Huanyun
Published: June 2014

The wheelset of the railway vehicle is a rotor which itself has gyroscopic effect. Nowadays, the rolling stock has entered the era of high speed, and the wheel rotates faster than in the past. The influence of gyroscopic effect on stability is little understood. Metelitsyn’s inequality theorem for asymptotic stability has some advantages to analyze this problem although this method is sufficient but not necessary condition. Based on its deduction, the extremal eigenvalues criterion and compared with Routh-Hurwitz criterion, both are applied to solve the critical value of speed. Further, according to the instability criterion, gyroscopic contributory ratio is derived to study how the role the gyroscopic effect plays in stability. Moreover, the effect of gyroscopic matrix or gyroscopic terms pitch rotor inertia Iy on stability coefficient is investigated. The results show that Iy is a key factor to wheelset gyroscopic stability. The gyroscopic effect becomes significant, and the stability increases with increasing Iy. The results also indicate that the critical value of speed solved by Metelitsyn theorem is more conservative than the one it solved by Hurwitz criterion, which proves that Metelitsyn inequality theorem for asymptotic stability is a sufficient but not necessary condition in the way of attaining the numerical simulation result. Finally, the test for the influence of gyroscopic effect on stability needs to be further studied.
Serum Oxidative Stress Markers and Lipidomic Profile to Detect NASH Patients Responsive to an Antioxidant Treatment: A Pilot Study
Authors: Stiuso Paola , Scognamiglio Ilaria , Murolo Marianna , Ferranti Pasquale , De Simone Carmela , Rizzo Maria Rosaria , Tuccillo Concetta , Caraglia Michele , Loguercio Carmelina , Federico Alessandro
Published: June 2014

Liver steatosis can evolve to steatohepatitis (NASH) through a series of biochemical steps related to oxidative stress in hepatocytes. Antioxidants, such as silybin, have been proposed as a treatment of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and NASH. In this study, we evaluated, in patients with histologically documented NASH, the oxidant/antioxidant status and lipid “fingerprint” in the serum of NASH patients, both in basal conditions and after 12 months of treatment with silybin-based food integrator Realsil (RA). The oxidant/antioxidant status analysis showed the presence of a group of patients with higher basal severity of disease (NAS scores 4.67 ± 2.5) and a second group corresponding to borderline NASH (NAS scores = 3.8 ± 1.5). The chronic treatment with RA changed the NAS score in both groups that reached the statistical significance only in group 2, in which there was also a significant decrease of serum lipid peroxidation. The lipidomic profile showed a lipid composition similar to that of healthy subjects with a restoration of the values of free cholesterol, lysoPC, SM, and PC only in group 2 of patients after treatment with RA.Conclusion.These data suggest that lipidomic and/or oxidative status of serum from patients with NASH could be useful as prognostic markers of response to an antioxidant treatment.
Applications of Silver Nanowires on Transparent Conducting Film and Electrode of Electrochemical Capacitor
Authors: Song Yuan-Jun , Chen Jing , Wu Jing-Yuan , Zhang Tong
Published: June 2014

Silver nanowire has potential applications on transparent conducting film and electrode of electrochemical capacitor due to its excellent conductivity. Transparent conducting film (G‐film) was prepared by coating silver nanowires on glass substrate using Meyer rod method, which exhibited better performance than carbon nanotube and graphene. The conductivity of G‐film can be improved by increasing sintering temperature. Electrode of electrochemical capacitor (I‐film) was fabricated through the same method with G‐film on indium tin oxide (ITO). CV curves of I‐film under different scanning rates had obvious redox peaks, which indicated that I‐film exhibited excellent electrochemical pseudocapacitance performance and good reversibility during charge/discharge process. In addition, the specific capacitance of I‐film was measured by galvanostatic charge/discharge experiments, indicating that I‐film exhibits high special capacitance and excellent electrochemical stability.
Promoter Region Hypermethylation and mRNA Expression ofMGMTandp16Genes in Tissue and Blood Samples of Human Premalignant Oral Lesions and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bhatia Vikram , Goel Madhu Mati , Makker Annu , Tewari Shikha , Yadu Alka , Shilpi Priyanka , Kumar Sandeep , Agarwal S. P. , Goel Sudhir K.
Published: June 2014

Promoter methylation and relative gene expression of O6-methyguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) andp16genes were examined in tissue and blood samples of patients with premalignant oral lesions (PMOLs) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methylation-specific PCR and reverse transcriptase PCR were performed in 146 tissue and blood samples from controls and patients with PMOLs and OSCC. In PMOL group, significant promoter methylation ofMGMTandp16genes was observed in 59% (P=0.0010) and 57% (P=0.0016) of tissue samples, respectively, and 39% (P=0.0135) and 33% (P=0.0074) of blood samples, respectively. Promoter methylation of both genes was more frequent in patients with OSCC, that is, 76% (P=0.0001) and 82% (P=0.0001) in tissue and 57% (P=0.0002) and 70% (P=0.0001) in blood, respectively. Significant downregulation ofMGMTandp16mRNA expression was observed in both tissue and blood samples from patients with PMOLs and OSCC. Hypermethylation-induced transcriptional silencing ofMGMTandp16genes in both precancer and cancer suggests important role of these changes in progression of premalignant state to malignancy. Results support use of blood as potential surrogate to tissue samples for screening or diagnosing PMOLs and early OSCC.
The Effect of TLR9 Agonist CpG Oligodeoxynucleotides on the Intestinal Immune Response of Cobia (Rachycentron canadum)
Authors: Byadgi Omkar , Puteri Dinda , Lee Jai-Wei , Chang Tsung-Chou , Lee Yan-Horn , Chu Chun-Yen , Cheng Ta-Chih
Published: June 2014

Cytosine-guanine oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG ODN) motifs of bacterial DNA are recognized through toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) and are potent activators of innate immunity. However, the interaction between TLR9 and CpG ODN in aquatic species has not been well characterized. Hence, cobia TLR9 isoform B (RCTLR9B) was cloned and its expression and induction in intestine were investigated. RCTLR9B cDNA consists of 3113bp encoding 1009 amino acids containing three regions, leucine rich repeats, transmembrane domain, and toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domain. Intraperitoneal injection of CpG ODN 2395 upregulated RCTLR9 A and B and MyD88 and also induced the expressions of Mx, chemokine CC, and interleukin IL-1β. Cobia intraperitoneally injected with CpG ODN 1668 and 2395 had increased survival rates after challenge withPhotobacterium damselaesubsp.piscicida. In addition, formulation of CpG ODN with formalin-killed bacteria (FKB) and aluminum hydroxide gel significantly increased expressions of RCTLR9 A (50 folds) and B (30 folds) isoforms at 10 dpi (CpG ODN 1668) and MyD88 (21 folds) at 6 dpv (CpG ODN 2395). Subsequently, IL-1βincreased at 6 dpv in 1668 group. No histopathological damage and inflammatory responses were observed in the injected cobia. Altogether, these results facilitate CpG ODNs as an adjuvant to increase bacterial disease resistance and efficacy of vaccines in cobia.
A Rare Anomaly of Biliary System: MRCP Evidence of a Cystic Duct Cyst
Authors: Goya Cemil , Arslan Mehmet Serif , Yavuz Alpaslan , Hamidi Cihad , Kuday Suzan , Okur Mehmet Hanifi , Aydogdu Bahattin
Published: June 2014

Cystic duct cysts are a rare congenital anomaly. While the other bile duct cysts (choledochus and the intrahepatic bile ducts) are classified according to the classification described by Tadoni, there is no classification method described by the cystic duct cysts, although it is claimed that the cystic duct cysts may constitute a new “Type 6” category. Only a limited number of patients with cystic duct cysts have been reported in the literature. The diagnosis is usually made in the neonatal period or during childhood. The clinical symptoms are nonspecific and usually include pain in the right upper quadrant and jaundice. The condition may also present with biliary colic, cholangitis, cholelithiasis, or pancreatitis. In our case, the abdominal ultrasonography (US) performed on a 6-year-old female patient who presented with pain in the right upper quadrant pointed out an anechoic cyst at the neck of the gall bladder. Based on the magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) results, a cystic dilatation was diagnosed in the cystic duct. The aim of this case-report presentation was to discuss the US and MRCP findings of the cystic dilatation of cystic duct, which is an extremely rare condition, in the light of the literature information.
Two Kinds of Weighted Biased Estimators in Stochastic Restricted Regression Model
Authors: Liu Chaolin , Jiang Haina , Shi Xinhui , Liu Donglin
Published: June 2014

We consider two kinds of weighted mixed almost unbiased estimators in a linear stochastic restricted regression model when the prior information and the sample information are not equally important. The superiorities of the two new estimators are discussed according to quadratic bias and variance matrix criteria. Under such criteria, we perform a real data example and a Monte Carlo study to illustrate theoretical results.
Host-Range Dynamics ofCochliobolus lunatus: From a Biocontrol Agent to a Severe Environmental Threat
Authors: Louis Bengyella , Waikhom Sayanika Devi , Roy Pranab , Bhardwaj Pardeep Kumar , Sharma Chandradev K. , Singh Mohendro Wakambam , Talukdar Narayan Chandra
Published: June 2014

We undertook an investigation to advance understanding of the host-range dynamics and biocontrol implications ofCochliobolus lunatusin the past decade. Potato (Solanum tuberosumL) farms were routinely surveyed for brown-to-black leaf spot disease caused byC. lunatus. A biphasic gene data set was assembled and databases were mined for reported hosts ofC. lunatusin the last decade. The placement of five virulent strains ofC. lunatuscausing foliar necrosis of potato was studied with microscopic and phylogenetic tools. Analysis of morphology showed intraspecific variations in stromatic tissues among the virulent strains causing foliar necrosis of potato. A maximum likelihood inference based onGPDHlocus separatedC. lunatusstrains into subclusters and revealed the emergence of unclustered strains. The evolving nutritional requirement ofC. lunatusin the last decade is exhibited by the invasion of vertebrates, invertebrates, dicots, and monocots. Our results contribute towards a better understanding of the host-range dynamics ofC. lunatusand provide useful implications on the threat posed to the environment whenC. lunatusis used as a mycoherbicide.
Vitreous Tamponades in Highly Myopic Eyes
Authors: Valldeperas X. , Lorenzo-Carrero J.
Published: June 2014

The use of endotamponade agents has gained a major role in the management of macular complications of high myopia. Myopic foveoschisis and macular hole are the main macular complication of pathologic myopia, this growing condition that is a main cause of visual loss, especially in patients at a younger age. We discuss the physical properties and advantages and disadvantages of the main ocular tamponade agents used in the treatment of these diseases.
Integration by Parts and Martingale Representation for a Markov Chain
Authors: Siu Tak Kuen
Published: June 2014

Integration-by-parts formulas for functions of fundamental jump processes relating to a continuous-time, finite-state Markov chain are derived using Bismut's change of measures approach to Malliavin calculus. New expressions for the integrands in stochastic integrals corresponding to representations of martingales for the fundamental jump processes are derived using the integration-by-parts formulas. These results are then applied to hedge contingent claims in a Markov chain financial market, which provides a practical motivation for the developments of the integration-by-parts formulas and the martingale representations.
Lead Screening for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease of IKK2 Inhibited by Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Tsou Yung-An , Huang Hung-Jin , Lin Wesley Wen-Yang , Chen Calvin Yu-Chian
Published: June 2014

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic obstructive lung disease and is frequently found in well‐developed countries due to the issue of aging populations. Not all forms of medical treatment are unable to return a patient′s limited pulmonary function back to normal and eventually they could require a lung transplant. At this time, COPD is the leading cause of death in the world. Studies surveying I‐kappa‐B‐kinase beta (IKK2) are very relevant to the occurrence and deterioration of the condition COPD. The sinapic acid‐4‐O‐sulfate, kaempferol, and alpha‐terpineol were found to be IKK2 inhibitors and helped prevent COPD occurrence and worsening according to a screening of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) database. The protein‐ligand interaction of these three compounds with regard to IKK2 was also done by molecular dynamics. The docking poses, hydrogen bond variation, and hydrophobic interactions found Asp103 and Lys106 are crucial to IKK2 binding areas for IKK2 inhibition. Finally, we found the three compounds that have an equally strong effect in terms of IKK2 binding proven by the TCM database and perhaps these may be an alternative treatment for COPD in the future.
Blind Source Separation Based on Covariance Ratio and Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm
Authors: Chen Lei , Zhang Liyi , Guo Yanju , Huang Yong , Liang Jingyi
Published: June 2014

The computation amount in blind source separation based on bioinspired intelligence optimization is high. In order to solve this problem, we propose an effective blind source separation algorithm based on the artificial bee colony algorithm. In the proposed algorithm, the covariance ratio of the signals is utilized as the objective function and the artificial bee colony algorithm is used to solve it. The source signal component which is separated out, is then wiped off from mixtures using the deflation method. All the source signals can be recovered successfully by repeating the separation process. Simulation experiments demonstrate that significant improvement of the computation amount and the quality of signal separation is achieved by the proposed algorithm when compared to previous algorithms.
Antioxidant and Prophylactic Effects ofDelonix elataL., Stem Bark Extracts, and Flavonoid Isolated Quercetin against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Krishnappa Pradeepa , Venkatarangaiah Krishna , Venkatesh  , Shivamogga Rajanna Santosh Kumar , Kashi Prakash Gupta Rajesh
Published: June 2014

Delonix elataL. (Ceasalpinaceae), is widely used by the traditional medical practitioners of Karnataka, India, to cure jaundice, and bronchial and rheumatic problems. The objective of this study was to screen thein vitroantioxidant and hepatoprotective activity of the stem bark extracts against CCl4-induced liver damage in rats. Among different stem bark extracts tested, the ethanol extract (DSE) has shown significantin vitroantioxidant property in radicals scavenging, metal chelating, and lipid peroxidation inhibition assays. HPLC analysis of the DSE revealed the presence of known antioxidant molecules, namely, gallic acid, ellagic acid, coumaric acid, quercetin, and rutin. Bioassay-guided fractionation of DSE has resulted in the isolation and characterization of quercetin. DSE and quercetin have shown significant prophylactic effects by restoring the liver function markers (AST, ALT, ALP, serum bilirubin, and total protein) and antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, and GST). These results were proved to be hepatoprotective at par with silymarin and well supported by the histological observations of liver sections with distinct hepatic cells, and mild degree of fatty change and necrosis. The results indicated that the DSE and quercetin were significant for prophylactic activity against CCl4-induced liver damage in rats. This activity could be attributed to the antioxidant constituents in the DSE and hence justified the ethnomedicinal claims.
Numerical Simulation and Clinical Implications of Stenosis in Coronary Blood Flow
Authors: Zhang Jun-Mei , Zhong Liang , Luo Tong , Huo Yunlong , Tan Swee Yaw , Wong Aaron Sung Lung , Su Boyang , Wan Min , Zhao Xiaodan , Kassab Ghassan S. , Lee Heow Pueh , Khoo Boo Cheong , Kang Chang-Wei , Ba Te , Tan Ru San
Published: June 2014

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) is the gold standard to guide coronary interventions. However it can only be obtained via invasive angiography. The objective of this study is to propose a noninvasive method to determineFFRCTby combining computed tomography angiographic (CTA) images and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique. Utilizing the method, this study explored the effects of diameter stenosis (DS), stenosis length, and location onFFRCT. The baseline left anterior descending (LAD) model was reconstructed from CTA of a healthy porcine heart. A series of models were created by adding an idealized stenosis (with DS from 45% to 75%, stenosis length from 4 mm to 16 mm, and at 4 locations separately). Through numerical simulations, it was found thatFFRCTdecreased (from 0.89 to 0.74), when DS increased (from 45% to 75%). Similarly,FFRCTdecreased with the increase of stenosis length and the stenosis located at proximal position had lowerFFRCTthan that at distal position. These findings are consistent with clinical observations. Applying the same method on two patients’ CTA images yieldedFFRCTclose to the FFR values obtained via invasive angiography. The proposed noninvasive computation ofFFRCTis promising for clinical diagnosis of CAD.
Structural Response to Blast Loading: The Effects of Corrosion on Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Yalciner Hakan
Published: June 2014

Structural blast design has become a necessary part of the design with increasing terrorist attacks. Terrorist attacks are not the one to make the structures important against blast loading where other explosions such as high gas explosions also take an important place in structural safety. The main objective of this study was to verify the structural performance levels under the impact of different blast loading scenarios. The blast loads were represented by using triangular pulse for single degree of freedom system. The effect of blast load on both corroded and uncorroded reinforced concrete buildings was examined for different explosion distances. Modified plastic hinge properties were used to ensure the effects of corrosion. The results indicated that explosion distance and concrete strength were key parameters to define the performance of the structures against blast loading.
Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor of the Abdomen and Pelvis: Clinicopathological Characters of 12 Cases
Authors: Zhang Guangzhao , Liu Guangjun , Zhao Dahua , Cui Xijun , Li Gang
Published: June 2014

Purpose. To study the clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics of abdominal desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) and investigate the optimal therapy modalities.Patients and Methods. A retrospective cohort study was performed on 12 abdominal DSRCT patients; all pathological, radiological, and prognostic data were analyzed. There were 3 patients (25%) with metastatic disease at presentation. In all 12 cases, 6 cases underwent operation and adjuvant chemotherapy (group 1, 6/12, 50%). The other 6 cases were diagnosed by fine needle aspiration or exploratory laparotomy biopsy (group 2, 6/12, 50%); all cases received four to six courses of multiple agents chemotherapy, respectively.Results. All cases were finally diagnosed as DSRCT pathologically. Among group 1, all cases underwent en bloc resection (2/6, 33%) or tumor debulking (4/6, 67%) and, following four courses of multiple agents chemotherapy, Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that 3-year survival was 50% in group 1 versus 16.7% in group 2 (P<0.05). Gross tumor resection was highly significant in prolonging overall survival; patients with localized solitary lesion have a better prognosis, most likely due to increased feasibility of resection.Conclusions. DSRCT is a rare malignant tumor with poor prognosis. Surgical excision with combination chemotherapy as an adjunct is mandatory for nonmetastatic cases because these modalities used in isolation may have less impact.
An SMA Passive Ankle Foot Orthosis: Design, Modeling, and Experimental Evaluation
Authors: Deberg Liberty , Taheri Andani Masood , Hosseinipour Milad , Elahinia Mohammad
Published: June 2014

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) provide compact and effective actuation for a
variety of mechanical systems. In this work, the distinguished superelastic behavior of these materials is utilized to develop a passive ankle foot orthosis to address the drop foot disability. Design, modeling, and experimental evaluation of an SMA orthosis employed in an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) are presented in this paper. To evaluate the improvements achieved with this new device, a prototype is fabricated and motion analysis is performed on a drop foot patient. Results are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed orthosis.
Coherent and Incoherent Scattering Cross Sections of Some Lead and Sodium Compounds at Angles below 10° for 241Am Gamma Rays
Authors: Vinaykumar L. , Umesh T. K.
Published: June 2014

We report the total (coherent + incoherent) scattering cross sections of some lead and sodium compounds measured at angles less than 10° for 241Am (59.54 keV) gamma rays. The experimental cross sections so obtained are compared with the data interpolated from theoretical compilations based on nonrelativistic Hartree-Fock (NRHF) model for the samples of interest. In the low momentum transfer region studied, it is observed that the nonrelativistic theoretical total scattering cross sections computed using HF form factor and scattering function tabulated by NRHF are quite adequate in explaining the measured total scattering cross sections.
3D Pattern Synthesis of Time-Modulated Conformal Arrays with a Multiobjective Optimization Approach
Authors: Li Wentao , Hei Yongqiang , Yang Jing , Shi Xiaowei
Published: June 2014

This paper addresses the synthesis of the three-dimensional (3D) radiation patterns of the time-modulated conformal arrays. Due to the nature of periodic time modulation, harmonic radiation patterns are generated at the multiples of the modulation frequency in time-modulated arrays. Thus, the optimization goal of the time-modulated conformal array includes the optimization of the sidelobe level at the operating frequency and the sideband levels (SBLs) at the harmonic frequency, and the design can be regarded as a multiobjective problem. The multiobjective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) is applied to optimize the switch-on instants and pulse durations of the time-modulated conformal array. To significantly reduce the optimization variables, the modified Bernstein polynomial is employed in the synthesis process. Furthermore, dual polarized patch antenna is designed as radiator to achieve low cross-polarization level during the beam scanning. A 12 × 13 (156)-element conical conformal microstrip array is simulated to demonstrate the proposed synthesis mechanism, and good results reveal the promising ability of the proposed algorithm in solving the synthesis of the time-modulated conformal arrays problem.
Study on Semantic Contrast Evaluation Based on Vector and Raster Data Patch Generalization
Authors: Yang Jun , Li Yuechen , Xi Jianchao , Li Chuang , Xie Fuding
Published: June 2014

We used buffer superposition, Delaunay triangulation skeleton line, and other methods to achieve the aggregation and amalgamation of the vector data, adopted the method of combining mathematical morphology and cellular automata to achieve the patch generalization of the raster data, and selected the two evaluation elements (namely, semantic consistency and semantic completeness) from the semantic perspective to conduct the contrast evaluation study on the generalization results from the two levels, respectively, namely, land type and map. The study results show that: (1) before and after the generalization, it is easier for the vector data to guarantee the area balance of the patch; the raster data’s aggregation of the small patch is more obvious. (2) Analyzing from the scale of the land type, most of the land use types of the two kinds of generalization result’s semantic consistency is above 0.6; the semantic completeness of all types of land use in raster data is relatively low. (3) Analyzing from the scale of map, the semantic consistency of the generalization results for the two kinds of data is close to 1, while, in the aspect of semantic completeness, the land type deletion situation of the raster data generalization result is more serious.