bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A photographic method for lobster morphometry aimed at site discrimination
Authors: Rycroft Nathan , Radcliffe Kristin , Atema Jelle
Published: August 2013

Current data suggest that lobster (Homarus americanus) populations are less homogenous than once believed. In an effort to better discriminate morphologically among lobsters from different sites, we developed a photographic method using ImageJ and compared it with commonly used “hand” measurements. We standardized the measuring process using a strap-down board for both dorsal and ventral photographs with a camera mounted at a fixed position above the lobster. Discriminant analysis showed that both hand and photographic methods were useful in discriminating lobsters — both males and females — from three different sites. Additionally, the photographic method improved reproducibility and resolution, it reduced measurement time at the dock, and it created a permanent record for later verification, additional statistical analyses, and observer training.
Cardiomyocyte culture — an update on the in vitro cardiovascular model and future challenges
Authors: Parameswaran Sreejit , Kumar Sujeet , Verma Rama Shanker , Sharma Rajendra K.
Published: August 2013

The success of any work with isolated cardiomyocytes depends on the reproducibility of cell isolation, because the cells do not divide. To date, there is no suitable in vitro model to study human adult cardiac cell biology. Although embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells are able to differentiate into cardiomyocytes in vitro, the efficiency of this process is low. Isolation and expansion of human cardiomyocyte progenitor cells from cardiac surgical waste or, alternatively, from fetal heart tissue is another option. However, to overcome various issues related to human tissue usage, especially ethical concerns, researchers use large- and small-animal models to study cardiac pathophysiology. A simple model to study the changes at the cellular level is cultures of cardiomyocytes. Although primary murine cardiomyocyte cultures have their own advantages and drawbacks, alternative strategies have been developed in the last two decades to minimise animal usage and interspecies differences. This review discusses the use of freshly isolated murine cardiomyocytes and cardiomyocyte alternatives for use in cardiac disease models and other related studies.
MOSFET-ONLY TWO-STAGE OPERATIONAL AMPLIFIERS WITH MILLER COMPENSATION: DESIGN AND FABRICATION IN NANO-SCALE CMOS
Authors: AMINZADEH HAMED
Published: August 2013

Nano-scale area-efficient MOS devices are employed in this article to stabilize high-speed operational amplifiers (opamps) for those applications that deal with negative feedback. As an alternative choice, metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitors cannot be integrated in every technology as they require additional process masks. Moreover, these components suffer from large silicon area. In this paper, considerations of a successful MOSFET-only amplifier design are highlighted and described. These considerations make it possible to fabricate these amplifiers for a nano-scale digital system-on-chip (SoC). Circuit-level simulations include comparison between MOS capacitors (MOSCAPs) with MIM capacitors (MIMCAPs) in two identical processes. The efficiency of the given design considerations are also validated through simulation in 90-nm CMOS technology. A MOSFET-only amplifier is designed as the main part of a 5 MS/s sample-and-hold. Using the proposed design techniques, the MOSFET-only amplifier with Miller compensation recovers 51% silicon die with respect to a MIMCAP amplifier for identical signal-to-noise-plus-distortion (SNDR) ratio.
Evolutionary Search in the Space of Rules for Creation of New Two-Player Board Games
Authors: Halim Zahid , Baig Abdul Rauf , Zafar Kashif
Published: August 2013

Games have always been a popular test bed for artificial intelligence techniques. Game developers are always in constant search for techniques that can automatically create computer games minimizing the developer's task. In this work we present an evolutionary strategy based solution towards the automatic generation of two player board games. To guide the evolutionary process towards games, which are entertaining, we propose a set of metrics. These metrics are based upon different theories of entertainment in computer games. This work also compares the entertainment value of the evolved games with the existing popular board based games. Further to verify the entertainment value of the evolved games with the entertainment value of the human user a human user survey is conducted. In addition to the user survey we check the learnability of the evolved games using an artificial neural network based controller. The proposed metrics and the evolutionary process can be employed for generating new and entertaining board games, provided an initial search space is given to the evolutionary algorithm.
INVARIANTS OF LINKS FROM THE GENERALIZED YANG–BAXTER EQUATION
Authors: HONG SEUNG-MOON
Published: August 2013

Enhanced Yang–Baxter operators give rise to invariants of oriented links. We expand the enhancing method to generalized Yang–Baxter operators (gYB-operators). At present two examples of gYB-operators are known and recently three types of variations for one of these were discovered. We present the definition of enhanced generalized Yang–Baxter operators and show that all known examples of gYB-operators can be enhanced to give corresponding invariants of oriented links. Most of these invariants are specializations of the polynomial invariant P. Invariants from gYB-operators are multiplicative after a normalization.
ANHARMONICITY VERSUS LINEARITY RELATION AND MALLMANN PLOT
Authors: GUPTA J. B.
Published: August 2013

The anharmonity in shape transitional nuclei, observed earlier, is studied and an alternative form is derived. The dichotomy of a constant anharmonicity along with a changing nuclear structure is resolved. The evolution of the collective nuclear structure from the spherical vibrator to the deformed rotor is studied through the variation of energy ratio R10/2(E10/E2) with R4/2, for Ba – Dy and for Dy – Hf (N<104) and R12/2. The role of the Z = 64 subshell and the N = 88–90 shape phase transition are illustrated in the Mallmann plot. The relative merits of the empirical formulae: rotation–vibration linearity model, the soft rotor formula and the power index formula are compared.
STUDY OF CLUSTER RADIOACTIVITY: THE INFLUENCE OF DEFORMATION OF THE CLUSTER AND DAUGHTER NUCLEI ON CLUSTER DECAY HALF-LIVES
Authors: NADERI D.
Published: August 2013

In this paper, the heavy cluster half-lives were calculated using the Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) method. First, we have considered the cluster and daughter nuclei as spherical and the half-lives have been obtained. Then, we have assumed two nuclei as deformed ones and calculations have been performed once again. Deformations of the emitted cluster and daughter nucleus have been presented in terms of elongation and neck thickness parameters. We investigated the influence of elongation and neck thickness parameters on cluster decay half-lives. Our results show that half-lives are affected by these parameters and obtained results for deformed nuclei are in better agreement with experimental data.
A CONCISE CHARACTERIZATION OF OPTIMAL CONSUMPTION WITH LOGARITHMIC PREFERENCES
Authors: KORN RALF , SEIFRIED FRANK THOMAS
Published: August 2013

In a general semi-martingale financial market with possibly nonlinear wealth dynamics, incomplete information, and ambiguity, we show that the optimal consumption decision of an agent with logarithmic preferences can be separated from the agent's investment decisions. Using minimal assumptions and mathematical machinery, we demonstrate that the optimal consumption/wealth ratio is deterministic, and we derive an explicit formula for it.
Assessing Intellectual Capital Using the Evidential Reasoning Approach: Application on Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Shariatmadari Mohammad , Azadi Siamak
Published: August 2013

One of the fundamental features of enterprises' supremacy over one another, particularly in SMEs, is intangible assets and their intellectual capital (IC). Varieties of approaches to assessing and evaluating enterprises' intellectual capital have far been offered. None of them, however, has been considered in the face of qualitative indicators and their synthesis and quantitative indicators, as well as accounting the failure to have access to evidence during evaluation. In this article, a framework for the assessment of intellectual capital is offered by using an evidential reasoning approach developed based on a hierarchical model and Dempster–Shafer (D–S) theory of evidence. The explanation of this framework is accompanied by its application in the assessment of intellectual capital of SMEs in the field of IT in one of Iran's regions.
Analogy Queries in Information Systems — A New Challenge
Authors: Lofi Christoph
Published: August 2013

Besides the tremendous progress in web-related technologies, interfaces to access the web or large information systems have largely stayed at the level of keyword searches and categorical browsing. This paper introduces analogy queries as one of the essential techniques required to bridge the gap between today's interfaces and future interaction paradigms. The intuitive concept of analogies is directly derived from human cognition and communication practices, and is in fact often considered to be the core concept of human cognition. In brief, analogies form abstract relationships between concepts, which can be used to efficiently exchange information and knowledge needs or transmit even complex concepts including important connotations in a strictly human-centred and natural fashion. Building of analogy-enabled information systems opens up a number of interesting scientific challenges, e.g. how does communication using analogies work? How can this process be represented? How can information systems understand what a user provided analogy actually means? How can analogies be discovered? This paper aims at discussing some of these questions and is intended as a corner stone of future research efforts.
WHEN CLOUD COMPUTING MEETS BIOINFORMATICS: A REVIEW
Authors: ZHOU SHUIGENG , LIAO RUIQI , GUAN JIHONG
Published: August 2013

In the past decades, with the rapid development of high-throughput technologies, biology research has generated an unprecedented amount of data. In order to store and process such a great amount of data, cloud computing and MapReduce were applied to many fields of bioinformatics. In this paper, we first introduce the basic concepts of cloud computing and MapReduce, and their applications in bioinformatics. We then highlight some problems challenging the applications of cloud computing and MapReduce to bioinformatics. Finally, we give a brief guideline for using cloud computing in biology research.
A FURTHER GENERALIZATION OF TASK-ORIENTED CONTROL THROUGH TASKS PRIORITIZATION
Authors: NIKOLIĆ MILUTIN , BOROVAC BRANISLAV , RAKOVIĆ MIRKO , SAVIĆ SRÐAN
Published: August 2013

Starting from the operational space and task prioritization framework, presented in [L. Sentis and O. Khatib, Task-oriented control of humanoid robots through prioritization, in Proc. IEEE-Robotics and Autonomous Systems/RSJ International Conf. Humanoid Robots, Santa Monica, CA, USA, November 2004.], this paper proposes an extension and improvement of this approach, to make it applicable to nonholonomic tasks and systems. For the tasks where inequality type conditions have to be fulfilled, such solutions are obtained to ensure as small as possible movements at the joints, while keeping the actuators' driving torques between saturation limits. Having in mind that a prerequisite for realization of any task by biped robot is the maintenance of its upright position, this issue is also in the focus of our study. Instead of keeping the zero-moment point (ZMP) at an exact position, dynamic balance was ensured by allowing the ZMP to be anywhere within the support area. Since the condition for ZMP position is relaxed a smaller number of joints are engaged in the task realization, which enables more tasks to be handled simultaneously. Simulations were performed, and the results proved the validity of the proposed approach. When disturbance was applied compensation behavior emerged.
MODELING OF ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTATION: AMENITY VERSUS PRODUCTIVITY AND MODERNIZATION
Authors: HRITONENKO NATALI , YATSENKO YURI
Published: August 2013

We develop an aggregated model to study rational environmental adaptation policies that compensate negative consequences of climate change. The model distinguishes three categories of adaptation measures that (a) compensate the decrease of environmental amenity value, (b) compensate the decrease of total productivity, (c) develop and introduce new hazard-protected capital and technology. We analyze the optimal balance among consumption, capital investment, and different categories of adaptation investments under exogenous climate change. It appears that the climate change damage and subsequent adaptation do not lead to a higher level of capital modernization in the long run as compared to the benchmark case with no climate change. A synergism between productivity-related and amenity-related adaptation activities arises because the productivity-related adaptation positively impacts the economy and creates better possibilities for the amenity adaptation.
BAND STRUCTURE, HARDNESS, THERMODYNAMIC AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF SUPERCONDUCTING Nb2AsC, Nb2InC AND Mo2GaC
Authors: HADI M. A. , ALI M. S. , NAQIB S. H. , ISLAM A. K. M. A.
Published: August 2013

First-principles investigation of the geometry, electronic band structure, Vickers hardness, thermodynamic and optical properties of three superconducting MAX compounds Nb 2 AsC , Nb 2 InC and Mo 2 GaC have been carried out by the plane-wave pseudopotential method based on density functional theory (DFT) implemented in the CASTEP code. The theoretical Vickers hardness has been studied by means of Mulliken bond population analysis and electronic densities of states. The thermodynamic properties such as the temperature and pressure dependent bulk modulus, Debye temperature, specific heats and thermal expansion coefficient of the three 211 MAX phases are derived from the quasi-harmonic Debye model with phononic effect for the first time. Furthermore, all the optical properties are determined and analyzed for the first time for two different polarization directions. The theoretical findings are compared with relevant experiments (where available) and the various implications are discussed in details.
A HIGH RESOLUTION INTEGRAL FIELD SPECTROGRAPH FOR THE EUROPEAN SOLAR TELESCOPE
Authors: CALCINES A. , LÓPEZ R. L. , COLLADOS M.
Published: August 2013

This paper presents the proposal of a high resolution, integral field spectrograph that is currently being designed for the 4-meter aperture European Solar Telescope that will be located in the Canary Islands. This instrument is optimized to study the solar chromosphere and photosphere to allow the investigation of several phenomena concentrated within these two layers. It will be able to observe simultaneously a bidimensional field of view of 80 arcsec2 that is reorganized, using an integral field unit, into 8 long slits of 200 arcsec length by 0.05 arcsec width. It will have the capability to observe different layers of the Sun at the same time due to its multi-wavelength capability that allows the observation of 5 visible and 3 near-infrared wavelength intervals from 3900 to 23,000 Å, with a spectral resolution of about 300,000. The designed instrument is telecentric and presents an optical quality limited by diffraction.
Ammonium-Dependent Shortening of CLS in Yeast Cells Starved for Essential Amino Acids Is Determined by the Specific Amino Acid Deprived, through Different Signaling Pathways
Authors: Santos Júlia , Leão Cecília , Sousa Maria João
Published: August 2013

Ammonium (NH4+) leads to chronological life span (CLS) shortening inSaccharomyces cerevisiaeBY4742 cells, particularly evident in cells starved for auxotrophy-complementing amino acids (leucine, lysine, and histidine) simultaneously. Here, we report that the effect ofNH4+on aging yeast depends on the specific amino acid they are deprived of. Compared with no amino acid starvation, starvation for leucine alone or in combination with histidine resulted in the most pronouncedNH4+-induced CLS shortening, whereas starvation for lysine, alone or in combination with histidine resulted in the least sensitivity toNH4+. We also show thatNH4+-induced CLS shortening is mainly mediated by Tor1p in cells starved for leucine or histidine but by Ras2p in cells starved for lysine, and in nonstarved cells. Sch9p protected cells from the effect ofNH4+under all conditions tested (starved or nonstarved cells), which was associated with Sch9p-dependent Hog1p phosphorylation. Our data show thatNH4+toxicity can be modulated through manipulation of the specific essential amino acid supplied to cells and of the conserved Ras2p, Tor1p, and Sch9p regulators, thus providing new clues to the development of environmental interventions for CLS extension and to the identification of new therapeutic targets for diseases associated with hyperammonemia.
Lifting the Silver Flakes: The Pathogenesis and Management of Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Authors: Chong Heng T. , Kopecki Zlatko , Cowin Allison J.
Published: August 2013

Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition in which patients suffer from mild to chronic plaque skin plaques. The disease manifests through an excessive inflammatory response in the skin due to complex interactions between different genetic and environmental factors. Psoriasis can affect the physical, emotional, and psychosocial well-being of patients, and currently there is no cure with treatments focusing primarily on the use of anti-inflammatory agents to control disease symptoms. Traditional anti-inflammatory agents can cause immunosuppression and adverse systemic effects. Further understanding of the disease has led to current areas of research aiming at the development of selective molecular targets to suppress the pathogenic immune responses.
Real-Time Audio-Visual Analysis for Multiperson Videoconferencing
Authors: Motlicek Petr , Duffner Stefan , Korchagin Danil , Bourlard Hervé , Scheffler Carl , Odobez Jean-Marc , Del Galdo Giovanni , Kallinger Markus , Thiergart Oliver
Published: August 2013

We describe the design of a system consisting of several state-of-the-art real-time audio and video processing components enabling multimodal stream manipulation (e.g., automatic online editing for multiparty videoconferencing applications) in open, unconstrained environments. The underlying algorithms are designed to allow multiple people to enter, interact, and leave the observable scene with no constraints. They comprise continuous localisation of audio objects and its application for spatial audio object coding, detection, and tracking of faces, estimation of head poses and visual focus of attention, detection and localisation of verbal and paralinguistic events, and the association and fusion of these different events. Combined all together, they represent multimodal streams with audio objects and semantic video objects and provide semantic information for stream manipulation systems (like a virtual director). Various experiments have been performed to evaluate the performance of the system. The obtained results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design, the various algorithms, and the benefit of fusing different modalities in this scenario.
Spectrum of Bacterial Keratitis at a Tertiary Eye Care Centre in India
Authors: Kaliamurthy Jayaraman , Kalavathy Catti Muniswamy , Parmar Pragya , Nelson Jesudasan Christadas Arul , Thomas Philip A.
Published: August 2013

Aim. To report the aetiological spectrum and susceptibility patterns of bacteria isolated from patients with corneal ulceration.Method. The microbiological data of all patients with suspected infectious corneal ulceration who presented to the ocular microbiology service at this centre between 2005 and 2012 were reviewed retrospectively.Result. Microorganisms were recovered from 1665 (77%) of the 2170 ulcers. Bacterial isolates accounted for 1205 of the organisms isolated. The most common bacterial pathogens isolated were various species ofStaphylococcus, representing 777 (64.5%), followed byStaphylococcusspp. (148; 12.3%) andPseudomonas aeruginosa(117; 9.7%). High percentages of Gram-positive bacteria were susceptible to gatifloxacin (>94%), followed by ofloxacin and moxifloxacin. Almost 90% ofPseudomonas aeruginosaisolates were susceptible to ciprofloxacin and moxifloxacin. Sixty-two (44%) of 140 isolates ofStreptococcus pneumoniae, 79 (14.8%) of 534 isolates ofStaphylococcus epidermidis,and 33 (14%) of 234 isolates ofStaphylococcus aureuswere resistant to three or more antibiotics.Conclusion.Staphylococcusspp. were the most common bacterial pathogens isolated from patients with keratitis in this setting. High percentages of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were susceptible to gatifloxacin and moxifloxacin, respectively. Interestingly, a high percentage ofStreptococcus pneumoniaeisolates were found to be resistant to three or more antibiotics.
Idiopathic Omental Infarction, Diagnosed and Managed Laparoscopically: A Case Report
Authors: AbdulAziz Ahmed , El Zalabany Tamer , Al Sayed Abdul Rahim , Al Ansari Ahmed
Published: August 2013

Idiopathic omental infarction is a rare cause of acute abdomen in adults, and the clinical finding can mimic acute appendicitis. Although idiopathic omental infarction is uncommon, the incidence of its detection has become more frequent as a result of advances in radiological technologies. We reported on a 21-year-old man who presented with sudden onset of intermittent right lower quadrant abdominal pain for seven days. The pain became more localized at the right iliac fossa (RIF) at day 2 before admission. A physical examination revealed a fever (38.2∘C), severe RIF tenderness, mass-like fullness, and positive rebound tenderness. A CT of the abdomen showed inflammatory changes and increased fat density mass in the right upper quadrant measuring5×4 cm representing focal panniculitis. However, the appendix was visualized normally and the findings were not in favor of acute appendicitis. Diagnosis was carried on laparoscopically. Serosanguinous free fluid was found in all abdominal quadrants. A6×4 cm gangrenous omental mass was noted. The omental mass was excised and an appendectomy was performed. In summary, omental infarction should be considered as a deferential diagnosis for acute right-sided abdominal pain, especially if the clinical finding does not correspond to appendicitis.
Induction and Analysis of the Alkaloid Mitragynine Content of a Mitragyna speciosa Suspension Culture System upon Elicitation and Precursor Feeding
Authors: Mohamad Zuldin Nor Nahazima , Said Ikram Md. , Mohd Noor Normah , Zainal Zamri , Jin Kiat Chew , Ismail Ismanizan
Published: August 2013

This study aimed to determine the effects of different concentrations and combinations of the phytohormones 2,4‐dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4‐D), kinetin, 6‐benzylaminopurine
(BAP), and 1‐naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) on callus induction and to demonstrate the role of elicitors and exogenous precursors on the production of mitragynine in a Mitragyna speciosa suspension culture.
The best callus induction was achieved from petiole explants cultured on WPM that was supplemented with 4 mg L−1 2, 4‐D (70.83%). Calli were transferred to liquid media and agitated on rotary shakers to establish
Mitragyna speciosa cell suspension cultures. The optimum settled cell volume was achieved in the presence of WPM that contained 3 mg L−1 2,4‐D
and 3% sucrose (9.47 ± 0.4667 mL). The treatment of cultures with
different concentrations of yeast extract and salicylic acid for different inoculation periods revealed that the highest mitragynine content as determined by HPLC was achieved from the culture treated with 250 mg L−1 yeast extract (9.275 ± 0.082 mg L−1) that was harvested on day 6 of culturing; salicylic acid showed low mitragynine content in all concentrations used. Tryptophan and loganin were used as exogenous precursors;
the highest level of mitragynine production was achieved in cultures treated with 3 μM tryptophan and harvested at 6 days (13.226 ± 1.98 mg L−1).
Fuzzy-Logic-Based Energy Optimized Routing for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Jiang Haifeng , Sun Yanjing , Sun Renke , Xu Hongli
Published: August 2013

Wireless sensor nodes are usually powered by batteries and deployed in unmanned outdoors or dangerous regions. So, constrained energy is a prominent feature for wireless sensor networks. Since the radio transceiver typically consumes more energies than any other hardware component on a sensor node, it is of great importance to design energy optimized routing algorithm to prolong network lifetime. In this work, based on analysis of energy consumption for data transceiver, single-hop forwarding scheme is proved to consume less energy than multihop forwarding scheme within the communication range of the source sensor or a current forwarder, using free space energy consumption model. We adopt the social welfare function to predict inequality of residual energy of neighbors after selecting different next hop nodes. Based on energy inequality, the method is designed to compute the degree of energy balance. Parameters such as degree of closeness of node to the shortest path, degree of closeness of node to Sink, and degree of energy balance are put into fuzzy logic system. Fuzzy-logic-based energy optimized routing algorithm is proposed to achieve multiparameter, fuzzy routing decision. Simulation results show that the algorithm effectively extends the network lifetime and has achieved energy efficiency and energy balance together, compared with similar algorithms.
Note on the Regularity of Nonadditive Measures
Authors: Watanabe Toshikazu , Yamada Syuji , Tanaka Tamaki
Published: August 2013

We consider the regularity for nonadditive measures. We prove that the non-additive measures which satisfy Egoroff's theorem and have pseudometric generating property possess Radon property (strong regularity) on a complete or a locally compact, separable metric space.
Recognition of Multiple Imbalanced Cancer Types Based on DNA Microarray Data Using Ensemble Classifiers
Authors: Yu Hualong , Hong Shufang , Yang Xibei , Ni Jun , Dan Yuanyuan , Qin Bin
Published: August 2013

DNA microarray technology can measure the activities of tens of thousands of genes simultaneously, which provides an efficient way to diagnose cancer at the molecular level. Although this strategy has attracted significant research attention, most studies neglect an important problem, namely, that most DNA microarray datasets are skewed, which causes traditional learning algorithms to produce inaccurate results. Some studies have considered this problem, yet they merely focus on binary-class problem. In this paper, we dealt with multiclass imbalanced classification problem, as encountered in cancer DNA microarray, by using ensemble learning. We utilized one-against-all coding strategy to transform multiclass to multiple binary classes, each of them carrying out feature subspace, which is an evolving version of random subspace that generates multiple diverse training subsets. Next, we introduced one of two different correction technologies, namely, decision threshold adjustment or random undersampling, into each training subset to alleviate the damage of class imbalance. Specifically, support vector machine was used as base classifier, and a novel voting rule called counter voting was presented for making a final decision. Experimental results on eight skewed multiclass cancer microarray datasets indicate that unlike many traditional classification approaches, our methods are insensitive to class imbalance.
Geometric Hamiltonian Formulation of a Variational Problem Depending on the Covariant Acceleration
Authors: Abrunheiro Lígia , Camarinha Margarida , Clemente-Gallardo Jesús
Published: August 2013

We consider a second-order variational problem depending
on the covariant acceleration, which is related to the notion of Riemannian cubic polynomials. This problem and the corresponding optimal control problem
are described in the context of higher order tangent bundles using geometric
tools. The main tool, a presymplectic variant of Pontryagin’s maximum
principle, allows us to study the dynamics of the control problem.
Investigation on Locking and Pulling Modes in Analog Frequency Dividers
Authors: Buonomo Antonio , Lo Schiavo Alessandro
Published: August 2013

We compare the main analytical results available to estimate the locking range, which is the key figure-of-merit ofLCfrequency dividers based on the injection locking phenomenon. Starting from the classical result by Adler concerning injection-locked oscillators, we elucidate the merits and the shortcomings of the different approaches to study injection-locked frequency dividers, with particular emphasis on divider-by-2. In particular, we show the potential of a perturbation approach which enables a more complete analysis of frequency dividers, making it possible to calculate not only the amplitude and the phase of the locked oscillation, but also the region where it exists and is stable, which defines the locking region. Finally, we analyze the dynamical behaviour of the dividers in the vicinity of the boundary of the locking region, showing that there exists a border region where the occurrence of the locking or the pulling operation mode is possible, depending on the initial conditions of the system.
ZnO1−xSxNanosphere in Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal Matrix: The Effect of Aggregation and Defects on the Dielectric and Electro-Optical Properties
Authors: Singh Dharmendra Pratap , Gupta Swadesh Kumar , Manohar Rajiv
Published: August 2013

High concentration (5 wt %) ofZnO1−xSxnanosphere (NS) has been dispersed in the ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC) to analyze the effect of high dopant concentration in the FLC matrix. The FLC molecules actively interact with the NS. The presence of NS enhances the photoluminescence of the pure FLC material due to the coupling of localized surface plasmon resonance from NS with FLC molecules. The high concentration of NS causes an aggregation in the FLC matrix and creates topological defects. The defects and aggregation cause the change in electro-optical and dielectric properties of the pure FLC material. The bigger size of NS as compared to the smectic layer separation causes the warping in the smectic layer. Semiconducting nature of NS also affects the conductivity of the pure FLC.
On Free Vibrations of Elastodynamic Problem in Rotating Non-Homogeneous Orthotropic Hollow Sphere
Authors: Mahmoud S. R. , Marin M. , Ali S. I. , Al-Basyouni K. S.
Published: August 2013

The effect of non-homogenity and rotation on the free vibrations for elastodynamic problem of orthotropic hollow sphere is discussed. The free vibrations are studied on the basis of the linear elasticity. The determination is concerned with the eigenvalues of the natural frequency for mixed boundary conditions. The numerical results of the frequency equations are discussed in the presence and absence of non-homogenity and rotation. The computer simulated results indicate that the influence of non-homogenity and rotation in orthotropic material is pronounced.
Antidermatophytic Properties of Ar-Turmerone, Turmeric Oil, and Curcuma longa Preparations
Authors: Jankasem Mukda , Wuthi-udomlert Mansuang , Gritsanapan Wandee
Published: August 2013

Curcuma longa L. or turmeric of the family Zingiberaceae is widely used in Thai traditional medicines for the treatment of rash, itching, tinea, and ringworm. Previous studies on turmeric oil reported effective antifungal activity against dermatophytes, a group of fungi that causes skin diseases. In this study, turmeric creams containing 6 and 10% w/w turmeric oil were prepared and tested against clinical strains of dermatophytes using broth dilution technique. Minimum fungicidal concentrations of 6 and 10% w/w turmeric creams were found to be 312 μg/mL. Ar-turmerone, a major compound separated from turmeric oil, promoted more effective antidermatophytic activity with the MICs of 1.56–6.25 μg/mL, compared to 3.90–7.81 μg/mL of standard ketoconazole. The results indicated that 6% w/w turmeric oil in the cream was suitable to be formulated as antidermatophytic preparation. Further research should be done on long-term chemical and antifungal stabilities of the preparation.
Output-Feedback and Inverse Optimal Control of a Class of Stochastic Nonlinear Systems with More General Growth Conditions
Authors: Jianwei Liu , Longchuan Guo , Xin Zuo , Huaqing Liang
Published: August 2013

This paper investigates the problem of output-feedback stabilization for a class of stochastic nonlinear systems in which the nonlinear terms depend on unmeasurable states besides measurable output. We extend linear growth conditions to power growth conditions and reduce the control effort. By using backstepping technique, choosing a high-gain parameter, an output-feedback controller is designed to ensure the closed-loop system to be globally asymptotically stable in probability, and the inverse optimal stabilization in probability is achieved. The efficiency of the output-feedback controller is demonstrated by a simulation example.
Preparation of Modified Kaolin Filler with Cesium and Its Application in Security Paper
Authors: El-Saied Houssni , El-Sherbiny Samya , Ali Omnia , El-Saied Wafaa , Rohyem Said
Published: August 2013

In this study, cesium was added intentionally during paper manufacture for protecting the papers against forgery and counterfeiting by sorbing cesium ions (Cs+) on kaolin, used as special filler in papermaking. The sorption of cesium from aqueous solution by kaolin was studied as a function of pH, shaking time, cesium initial concentration, and mass of kaolin using batch technique. The results showed that a solution containing 10 mg/L Cs+and 250 mg of kaolin at pH 6 can be used to modify the kaolin. Paper handsheets were prepared containing various percentages of the modified kaolin. The mechanical and optical properties of paper handsheets were studied. The prepared paper handsheets were irradiated by gamma irradiation using different doses. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to study the effect of kaolin modification by cesium and gamma irradiation on paper handsheets properties. The results indicated that modified kaolin enhanced the mechanical and optical properties of paper handsheets. Electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) were also used. They provided rapid, sensitive and nondestructive techniques in differentiating between different questioned documents. This study presents a new concept in manufacturing security papers and anticounterfeiting applications.
FOXP3+T Regulatory Cell Modifications in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Treated with Anti-TNFαAgents
Authors: Guidi Luisa , Felice Carla , Procoli Annabella , Bonanno Giuseppina , Martinelli Enrica , Marzo Manuela , Mocci Giammarco , Pugliese Daniela , Andrisani Gianluca , Danese Silvio , De Vitis Italo , Papa Alfredo , Armuzzi Alessandro , Rutella Sergio
Published: August 2013

Treg modulation has been hypothesized as one of the mechanisms by which antitumor necrosis factorα(TNFα) agents exert their action in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, data in IBD are still conflicting. We evaluated CD4+CD25+FOXP3+(Tregs) by flow cytometry in peripheral blood from 32 adult IBD patient before (T0) and after the induction of anti-TNFαtherapy (T1). Eight healthy controls (HCs) were included. We also evaluated the number of FOXP3+cells in the lamina propria (LP) in biopsies taken in a subset of patients and controls. Treg frequencies were significantly increased in peripheral blood from our patients after anti-TNFαtherapy compared to T0. T1 but not T0 levels were higher than HC. The increase was detectable only in clinical responders to the treatment. A negative correlation was found among delta Treg levels and the age of patients or disease duration and with the activity score of Crohn’s disease (CD). No significant differences were found in LP FOXP3+cells. Our data suggest the possibility that in IBD patients the treatment with anti-TNFαmay affect Treg percentages and that Treg modifications may correlate with clinical response, but differently in early versus late disease.
Effect of Incorporating Cellulose Nanocrystals from Corncob on the Tensile, Thermal and Barrier Properties of Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Nanocomposites
Authors: Silvério Hudson Alves , Flauzino Neto Wilson Pires , Pasquini Daniel
Published: August 2013

The effect of incorporating cellulose nanocrystals from corncob (CNC) on the tensile, thermal, and barrier properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanocomposites was evaluated. The CNC were prepared by sulfuric acid hydrolysis at 45°C for 60 minutes, using 15 mL of H2SO4 (9.17 M) for each gram of fiber. The CNC60 presented a needle‐shaped morphology, high crystallinity (83.7%), good initial degradation temperature (236°C), average length (L) of 210.8 ± 44.2 nm, diameter (D) of 4.15 ± 1.08 nm, and high aspect ratio (L/D) of 53.4 ± 15.8. PVA/CNC nanocomposite films with different filler loading levels (3, 6, and 9% by wt) were prepared by casting. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS), thermal stability (TS), light transmittance (Tr) and water vapor permeability (Pw) of the nanocomposites were measured. When compared to neat PVA film, the UTS of the nanocomposites improved significantly, by 140.2%, Pw decreased up to 28.73%, and there were no significant changes in TS. The nanocomposites also showed excellent Tr in the visible region, maintaining substantially equivalent transparency. These improvements in the nanocomposites′ properties suggest a close association between filler and matrix, besides indicating that the CNC were well dispersed and adherent to the polymer matrix.
Anticestodal Activity of EndophyticPestalotiopsissp. on Protoscoleces of Hydatid CystEchinococcus granulosus
Authors: Verma Vijay C. , Gangwar Mayank , Yashpal Madhu , Nath Gopal
Published: August 2013

Surgery is still the main treatment in hydatidosis caused byEchinococcus, which is a global health problem in human and animals. So, there is need for some natural protoscolicidal agents for instillation to prevent their reoccurrence at therapeutic doses. In this present investigation, anticestodal activity of one of the endophytic fungiPestalotiopsissp. from Neem plant was observed on protoscoleces of hydatid cysts ofEchinococcus granulosus. Viability of protoscoleces was confirmed by 0.1% aqueous eosin red stain method, where mortality was observed at different concentrations with respect to time. An average anticestodal activity was observed with different endophytic fungal strains, that is,Nigrospora(479 ± 2.9),Colletotrichum(469 ± 25.8),Fusarium(355 ± 14.5), andChaetomium(332 ± 28.3) showing 64 to 70% protoscolicidal activity, exceptPestalotiopsissp. (581 ± 15.0), which showed promising scolicidal activity up to 97% mortality just within 30 min of incubation. These species showed significant reduction in viability of protoscoleces. This is the first report on the scolicidal activity of endophyticPestalotiopsissp. We conclude that ultrastructural changes in protoscoleces were due to endophytic extract suggesting that there may be some bioactive compounds that have selective action on the tegument layer of protoscoleces. As compared with that of standard drug used, endophytic species of Neem plant shows significant anticestodal activity.
Ecological Implications of Acorn Size at the Individual Tree Level in Quercus suber L.
Authors: Ramos Soledad , Vázquez Francisco M. , Ruiz Trinidad
Published: August 2013

Few studies have determined the influence of acorn size on germination and predation percentage at tree level. To evaluate the seed size influence at individual tree level, trees producing two different sizes of acorn were chosen. Our results show that smaller acorns were significantly more infested (49.6–75.3%) than larger ones (11.0–27.33%). About germination, big acorns achieved the best germination percentage compared to the smaller ones (18% in infested and 76% in sound acorns for the small acorn group versus 69.3% in infested and 93.3% in sound acorns belonging to the big acorn group). We also found that there was a difference in behaviour between big and small seeds at tree level. The same size belonging to different functional groups presented a difference at the behavioural level per tree. Infested small acorns from trees 8 and 10 had only 33 and 13% germination, while big acorns from trees 2, 3, and 6 (there was no difference between both sizes) presented 67, 97, and 83%, respectively. These results indicate that the production of acorns with two different sizes could be a strategy for species regeneration, producing each size for a different purpose.
A Study of Concrete Made with Fine and Coarse Aggregates Recycled from Fresh Concrete Waste
Authors: Sérifou Mamery , Sbartaï Z. M. , Yotte S. , Boffoué M. O. , Emeruwa E. , Bos F.
Published: August 2013

This paper deals with the possibility of using fresh concrete waste as recycled aggregates in concrete. An experimental program based on two variables (proportion of fine aggregates replacement and proportion of coarse aggregates replacement) was implemented. The proportions of replacement were 0%, 50%, and 100% by mass of aggregates. Several mechanical properties were tested as compressive and tensile strengths. The results show a good correlation between aggregates replacement percentage and concrete properties. Concerning mechanical properties, a gradual decrease in compressive, splitting, and flexural strengthn with the increase in recycled aggregate percentage is shown.
TiO2‐Based Photocatalytic Process for Purification of Polluted Water: Bridging Fundamentals to Applications
Authors: Wang Chuan , Liu Hong , Qu Yanzhen
Published: August 2013

Recent years have witnessed a rapid accumulation of investigations on TiO2‐based photocatalysis, which poses as a greatly promising advanced oxidation technology for water purification. As the ability of this advanced oxidation process is well demonstrated in lab and pilot scales to decompose numerous recalcitrant organic compounds and microorganism as well in water, further overpass of the hurdles that stand before the real application has become increasingly important. This review focuses on the fundamentals that govern the actual water purification process, including the fabrication of engineered TiO2‐based photocatalysts, process optimization, reactor design, and economic consideration. The state of the art of photocatalyst preparation, strategies for process optimization, and reactor design determines the enhanced separation of photo‐excited electron‐hole (e‐h) pairs on the TiO2 surface. For the process optimization, the kinetic analysis including the rate‐determining steps is in need. For large‐scale application of the TiO2‐based photocatalysis, economics is vital to balance the fundamentals and the applied factors. The fundamentals in this review are addressed from the perspective of a bridge to the real applications. This review would bring valuably alternative paradigm to the scientists and engineers for their associated research and development activities with an attempt to push the TiO2‐based photocatalysis towards industrially feasible applications.
A Study in Physical and Mechanical Properties of Hemp Fibres
Authors: Shahzad Asim
Published: August 2013

This paper presents the results of the experiments undertaken to evaluate various physical and mechanical properties of hemp fibres. The study of these properties is vital for comparison with similar properties of synthetic fibres and for assessing hemp fibres’ suitability for use as reinforcement in composite materials. The properties of hemp fibres were found to be good enough to be used as reinforcement in composite materials. However, the issues of relatively high moisture content of fibres, variability in fibre properties, and relatively poor fibre/matrix interfacial strength were identified as factors that can reduce the efficiency with which these fibres can be utilised.
Fuel Efficiency by Coasting in the Vehicle
Authors: Shakouri Payman , Ordys Andrzej , Darnell Paul , Kavanagh Peter
Published: August 2013

This paper investigates the possibility of improving the fuel efficiency by decreasing the engine speed during the coasting phase of the vehicle. The proposed approach is stimulated by the fact that the engine losses increase with the engine speed. If the engine speed is retained low, the engine losses will be reduced and subsequently the tractive torque will be increased, enabling the vehicle to remain moving for longer duration while coasting. By increasing the time period of the coasting the fuel efficiency can be increased, especially travelling downhill, since it can benefit from the kinematic energy stored in the vehicle to continue coasting for a longer duration. It is already industry standard practice to cut fuel during coasting and refuel at low engine speed. The substantial difference proposed in this paper is the controlled reduction of engine speed during this phase and thus reduction in the engine losses, resulting in improved fuel economy. The simulation model is tested and the results illustrating an improvement to the fuel efficiency through the proposed method are presented. Some results of the experimental tests with a real vehicle through the proposed strategy are also presented in the paper.
The Ecological Response of Carex lasiocarpa Community in the Riparian Wetlands to the Environmental Gradient of Water Depth in Sanjiang Plain, Northeast China
Authors: Luan Zhaoqing , Wang Zhongxin , Yan Dandan , Liu Guihua , Xu Yingying
Published: August 2013

The response of Carex lasiocarpa in riparian wetlands in Sanjiang Plain to the environmental gradient of water depth was analyzed by using the Gaussian Model based on the biomass and average height data, and the ecological water‐depth amplitude of Carex lasiocarpa was derived. The results indicated that the optimum ecological water‐depth amplitude of Carex lasiocarpa based on biomass was [13.45 cm, 29.78 cm], while the optimum ecological water‐depth amplitude of Carex lasiocarpa based on average height was [2.31 cm, 40.11 cm]. The intersection of the ecological water‐depth amplitudes based on biomass and height confirmed that the optimum ecological water‐depth amplitude of Carex lasiocarpa was [13.45 cm, 29.78 cm] and the optimist growing water‐depth of Carex lasiocarpa was 21.4 cm. The TWINSPAN, a polythetic and divisive classification tool, was used to classify the wetland ecological series into 6 associations. Result of TWINSPAN matrix classification reflected an obvious environmental gradient in these associations: water‐depth gradient. The relation of biodiversity of Carex lasiocarpa community and water depth was determined by calculating the diversity index of each association.
Mathematical Modeling of Atherosclerotic Plaque Formation Coupled with a Non-Newtonian Model of Blood Flow
Authors: Silva Telma , Sequeira Adélia , Santos Rafael F. , Tiago Jorge
Published: August 2013

We deal with a mathematical model of atherosclerosis plaque
formation, which describes the early formation of atherosclerotic lesions. The
model assumes that the inflammatory process starts with the penetration of low-density lipoproteins cholesterol in the intima, and that penetration will occur
in the area of lower shear stress. Using a system of reaction-diffusion equations,
we first provide a one-dimensional model of lesion growth. Then we perform
numerical simulations on an idealized two-dimensional geometry of the carotid
artery bifurcation before and after the formation of the atherosclerotic plaque.
For that purpose, we consider the blood as an incompressible non-Newtonian
fluid with shear-thinning viscosity. We also present a study of the wall shear
stress and blood velocity behavior in a geometry with one plaque and also with
two plaques in different positions.