bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Join point interfaces for safe and flexible decoupling of aspects
Authors: Bodden Eric , Tanter Éric , Inostroza Milton
Published: February 2014

In current aspect-oriented systems, aspects usually carry, through their pointcuts, explicit references to the base code. Those references are fragile and hinder important software engineering properties such as modular reasoning and independent evolution of aspects and base code. In this work, we introduce a novel abstraction called Join Point Interface, which, by design, aids modular reasoning and independent evolution by decoupling aspects from base code and by providing a modular type-checking algorithm. Join point interfaces can be used both with implicit announcement through pointcuts, and with explicit announcement, using closure join points. Join point interfaces further offer polymorphic dispatch on join points, with an advice-dispatch semantics akin to multimethods. To support flexible join point matching, we incorporate into our language an earlier proposal for generic advice, and introduce a mechanism for controlled global quantification. We motivate each language feature in detail, showing that it is necessary to obtain a language design that is both type safe and flexible enough to support typical aspect-oriented programming idioms. We have implemented join point interfaces as an open-source extension to AspectJ. A case study on existing aspect-oriented programs supports our design, and in particular shows the necessity of both generic interfaces and some mechanism for global quantification.
Traceability and SysML design slices to support safety inspections
Authors: Briand Lionel , Falessi Davide , Nejati Shiva , Sabetzadeh Mehrdad , Yue Tao
Published: February 2014

Certifying safety-critical software and ensuring its safety requires checking the conformance between safety requirements and design. Increasingly, the development of safety-critical software relies on modeling, and the System Modeling Language (SysML) is now commonly used in many industry sectors. Inspecting safety conformance by comparing design models against safety requirements requires safety inspectors to browse through large models and is consequently time consuming and error-prone. To address this, we have devised a mechanism to establish traceability between (functional) safety requirements and SysML design models to extract design slices (model fragments) that filter out irrelevant details but keep enough context information for the slices to be easy to inspect and understand. In this article, we report on a controlled experiment assessing the impact of the traceability and slicing mechanism on inspectors' conformance decisions and effort. Results show a significant decrease in effort and an increase in decisions' correctness and level of certainty.
Unusual Synchronous Lung Tumors: Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma and Mucinous Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ponea Ana M. , Marak Creticus P. , Sun Ying , Guddati Achuta Kumar , Tibb Amit S.
Published: February 2014

Primary mucoepidermoid tumors of the lung are rare entities. Synchronous primary malignancies of the lung involving mucoepidermoid carcinoma and mucinous adenocarcinoma are even rarer and constitute a unique set of patient population. The presentation, diagnosis and treatment strategies for this patient population are not well described. In most cases, the diagnosis of synchronous primary lung malignancy is made after pathological examination of the resected lung specimen. Molecular and genetic analysis is now being used to supplement the diagnosis of synchronous primary lung malignancies. In this work, we briefly discuss the current state of knowledge of this unique combination of primary lung malignancies and describe the clinical presentation and management of a patient with a rare combination of synchronous primary lung malignancies.
Persistent Photoconductivity in ZnO Nanowires in Different Atmospheres
Authors: Cammi Davide , Ronning Carsten
Published: February 2014

We investigated the photoconductivity of single ZnO nanowire device as a function of the surrounding atmosphere, considering the comparison between reduced pressure, inert gas environments, and air. We show that after UV excitation the photocurrent persists for hours, in particular in vacuum, nitrogen, and argon. In the presence of oxygen, the photodecay rate is initially fast but then becomes considerably slower, resulting in a long persisting photo-conductivity tail. Our proposed model explains the persistence of the photoconductivity (PPC) in terms of band bending at the surface of the nanowires, which is related to the trapping of electrons from the conduction band.
Predictors of Disease Recurrence Post Living Donor Liver Transplantation in End Stage Chronic HCV Patients
Authors: El Awady Mostafa K. , Bader El Din Noha G. , Abdel Aziz Riad Mahmoud , Omran Moataza H. , Abdelhafez Tawfeek H. , Elbaz Tamer Mahmoud , Hunter Shereen Shoukry , Dawood Reham M. , Abdel Aziz Ashraf O.
Published: February 2014

HCV recurrence represents a universal phenomenon after liver transplantation. In this study Fifty HCV patients who underwent living donor liver transplantation were enrolled and factors that may accelerate HCV reinfection of the allograft such as donor’s age and degree of liver steatosis, recipient’s age, gender, BMI, MELD score, liver functions, HCV viral load, type of immunosuppressive drug, and genetic polymorphisms of IL28B, OAS, and IL1B were studied. The results of disease-free survival (DFS) rates showed inverse correlation with the recipient’s postoperative levels of ALT, AST, ALP (P<0.001, <0.001, and 0.006 resp.) as well as pre- and postoperative titers of HCV RNA (P<0.003and <0.001 resp.). Recipient’s IL28B SNP was a significant factor in predicting postoperative DFS (P<0.025). However, SNPs in OAS and IL1B genes had no apparent correlation with DFS. Cox proportional hazards model revealed that patients with elevated levels of ALT, preoperative viral titers, IL28B CT, and IL28B TT were 8.28, 4.22, 3.35, and 1.36 times, respectively, more likely to develop recurrence. In conclusion IL28B SNP, ALT level, and preoperative HCV titer besides proper choice of immunosuppressant are helpful for predicting posttransplant HCV recurrence and DFS.
State Estimation for Discrete-Time Stochastic Neural Networks with Mixed Delays
Authors: Hou Liyuan , Zhu Hong , Zhong Shouming , Zeng Yong , Shi Lin
Published: February 2014

This paper investigates the analysis problem for stability of discrete-time neural networks (NNs) with discrete- and distribute-time delay. Stability theory and a linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach are developed to establish sufficient conditions for the NNs to be globally asymptotically stable and to design a state estimator for the discrete-time neural networks. Both the discrete delay and distribute delays employ decomposing the delay interval approach, and the Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals (LKFs) are constructed on these intervals, such that a new stability criterion is proposed in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method and the applicability of the proposed method.
Endpoint Estimates for Fractional Hardy Operators and Their Commutators on Hardy Spaces
Authors: Zhou Jiang , Wang Dinghuai
Published: February 2014

(Hpℝn,Lqℝn)bounds of fractional Hardy operators are obtained. Moreover, the estimates for commutators of fractional Hardy operators on Hardy spaces are worked out. It is also proved that the commutators of fractional Hardy operators are mapped from the Herz-type Hardy spaces into the Herz spaces. The estimates for multilinear commutators of fractional Hardy operators are also discussed.
A New Expanded Mixed Element Method for Convection-Dominated Sobolev Equation
Authors: Wang Jinfeng , Liu Yang , Li Hong , Fang Zhichao
Published: February 2014

We propose and analyze a new expanded mixed element method, whose gradient belongs to the simple square integrable space instead of the classicalH(div; Ω) space of Chen’s expanded mixed element method. We study the new expanded mixed element method for convection-dominated Sobolev equation, prove the existence and uniqueness for finite element solution, and introduce a new expanded mixed projection. We derive the optimal a priori error estimates inL2-norm for the scalar unknownuand a priori error estimates in(L2)2-norm for its gradientλand its fluxσ. Moreover, we obtain the optimal a priori error estimates inH1-norm for the scalar unknownu. Finally, we obtained some numerical results to illustrate efficiency of the new method.
Clinical Pharmacology of Midazolam in Neonates and Children: Effect of Disease—A Review
Authors: Pacifici Gian Maria
Published: February 2014

Midazolam is a benzodiazepine with rapid onset of action and short duration of effect. In healthy neonates the half-life (t1/2) and the clearance (Cl) are 3.3-fold longer and 3.7-fold smaller, respectively, than in adults. The volume of distribution (Vd) is 1.1 L/kg both in neonates and adults. Midazolam is hydroxylated by CYP3A4 and CYP3A5; the activities of these enzymes surge in the liver in the first weeks of life and thus the metabolic rate of midazolam is lower in neonates than in adults. Midazolam acts as a sedative, as an antiepileptic, for those infants who are refractory to standard antiepileptic therapy, and as an anaesthetic. Information of midazolam as an anaesthetic in infants are very little. Midazolam is usually administered intravenously; when minimal sedation is required, intranasal administration of midazolam is employed. Disease affects the pharmacokinetics of midazolam in neonates; multiple organ failure reduces the Cl of midazolam and mechanical ventilation prolongs thet1/2of this drug. ECMO therapy increasest1/2, Cl, and Vd of midazolam several times. The adverse effects of midazolam in neonates are scarce: pain, tenderness, and thrombophlebitis may occur. Respiratory depression and hypotension appear in a limited percentage of infants following intravenous infusion of midazolam. In conclusion, midazolam is a safe and effective drug which is employed as a sedative, as antiepileptic agent, for infants who are refractory to standard antiepileptic therapy, and as an anaesthetic.
Alterations in the Corneal Nerve and Stem/Progenitor Cells in Diabetes: Preventive Effects of Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Treatment
Authors: Ueno Hiroki , Hattori Takaaki , Kumagai Yuta , Suzuki Noboru , Ueno Satoki , Takagi Hitoshi
Published: February 2014

This study aimed to investigate whether corneal nerve and corneal stem/progenitor cells are altered in insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I-) treated individuals with diabetes. A group consisting of db/db mice with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and a wild-type group were assessed by neural and corneal stem/progenitor cell markers immunostaining and real-time PCR. Moreover, the expression of corneal nerve and stem/progenitor cell markers was examined in IGF-1-treated diabetic mice. Compared with a normal cornea, swelling and stratification of the corneal epithelium were noted in db/db mice. Beta-III tubulin immunostaining revealed that the corneal subbasal plexuses in diabetic mice were thinner with fewer branches. mRNA expression levels ofHes1,Keratin15, andp75(corneal stem/progenitor cell markers) and the intensity and number of positive cells of Hes1 and Keratin19 immunostaining diminished in the diabetic corneas. Compared with the subbasal nerve density in the normal group, a decrease in the diabetic group was observed, whereas the corneal subbasal nerve density increased in IGF-1-treated diabetic group. The decreased expression of Hes1 and Keratin19 was prevented in IGF-1-treated diabetic group. Our data suggest that corneal nerve and stem/progenitor cells are altered in type 2 DM, and IGF-I treatment is capable of protecting against corneal damage in diabetes.
New Stabilization for Dynamical System with Two Additive Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Xiong Lianglin , Yang Fan , Chen Xiaozhou
Published: February 2014

This paper provides a new delay-dependent stabilization criterion for systems with two additive time-varying delays. The novel functional is constructed, a tighter upper bound of the derivative of the Lyapunov functional is obtained. These results have advantages over some existing ones because the combination of the delay decomposition technique and the reciprocally convex approach. Two examples are provided to demonstrate the less conservatism and effectiveness of the results in this paper.
An Evaluation of 3-Rhamnosylquercetin, a Glycosylated Form of Quercetin, against the Myotoxic and Edematogenic Effects of sPLA2fromCrotalus durissus terrificus
Authors: Toyama Daniela de Oliveira , Gaeta Henrique Hessel , Pinho Marcus Vinícius Terashima de , Ferreira Marcelo José Pena , Romoff Paulete , Matioli Fábio Filippi , Magro Angelo José , Fontes Marcos Roberto de Mattos , Toyama Marcos Hikari
Published: February 2014

This paper shows the results of quercitrin effects on the structure and biological activity of secretory phospholipase (sPLA2) fromCrotalus durissus terrificus, which is the main toxin involved in the pharmacological effects of this snake venom. According to our mass spectrometry and circular dichroism results, quercetin was able to promote a chemical modification of some amino acid residues and modify the secondary structure ofC. d. terrificussPLA2. Moreover, molecular docking studies showed that quercitrin can establish chemical interactions with some of the crucial amino acid residues involved in the enzymatic activity of the sPLA2, indicating that this flavonoid could also physically impair substrate molecule access to the catalytic site of the toxin. Additionally,in vitroandin vivoassays showed that the quercitrin strongly diminished the catalytic activity of the protein, altered its Vmax and Km values, and presented a more potent inhibition of essential pharmacological activities in theC. d. terrificussPLA2, such as its myotoxicity and edematogenic effect, in comparison to quercetin. Thus, we concluded that the rhamnose group found in quercitrin is most likely essential to the antivenom activities of this flavonoid againstC. d. terrificussPLA2.
Decision of National and Provincial Highway Asphalt Pavement Structure Based on Value Engineering
Authors: Ren Yingwei , Shan Jingsong
Published: February 2014

It is important that decision of asphalt pavement structure requires overall considerations of the performance and financial investment. To have asphalt pavement structure fulfilling good reliability, the asphalt pavement structure decision was researched based on value engineering theory. According to the national and provincial highway investigation data in Shandong Province during the last decade, the asphalt pavement performance attenuation rules of traffic levels and asphalt layer thicknesses were developed, and then the road performance evaluation method was presented. In addition, the initial investments, the costs of road maintenance, and middle‐scale repair in a period were analyzed. For the light traffic and medium traffic example, using the value engineering method, the pavement performance and costs of which thickness varies from 6 cm to 10 cm were calculated and compared. It was concluded that value engineering was an effective method in deciding the asphalt pavement structure.
Spectrum of Gastroenteropancreatic NENs in Routine Histological Examinations of Bioptic and Surgical Specimen: A Study of 161 Cases Collected from 17 Departments of Pathology in the Czech Republic
Authors: Mandys Václav , Jirásek Tomáš
Published: February 2014

Objective.To characterize GEP-NENs in routine biopsies and surgical specimen in the Czech Republic and to evaluate how WHO Classification (2010) is acceptable in diagnostic practice.Methods.Paraffin-embedded blocks and bioptic reports were collected from 17 departments of pathology. Histologic slides were stained with H&E and immunohistologically for CgA, synaptophysin, and Ki-67.Results.Out of 28 gastric NENs, there were 22 NETs, G1, 5 NETs, G2, and 1 NEC. Ten duodenal NENs were NETs, G1. Among 27 NENs of jejunum and ileum, 23 were NETs, G1, 2 NETs, G2, and 1 NEC and 1 mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC). Among 42 appendiceal “incidentalomas”, 39 were NETs G1, 2 goblet cell carcinoids, and 1 MANEC. Out of 34 large intestinal NENs, 30 were NETs, G1, 3 NETs, G2, and 1 NEC. One small intestinal and 6 large bowel neoplasms were reclassified as poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas. In 12 pancreatic NENs, there were 7 NETs, G1, 3 NETs, G2, and 2 NECs.Conclusions.Our study demonstrates differences in GEP-NENs frequency in sites of origin in our region, comparing to other countries. Regarding routine bioptic diagnostics, we gave evidence that the WHO 2010 classification of NENs is fully acceptable for exact categorisation of tumours.
Synthesis, Spectral Characterization, Magnetic Moment, Mass, X-Ray Diffraction, and Kinetic (TGA) Studies of Cr(III) Complex with Metformin: An Oral Antidiabetic Drug
Authors: Krishan Bal , Iqbal S. A.
Published: February 2014

The present work describes synthesis, spectral characterization, and X-ray diffraction studies of Cr(III) with “metformin,” an oral antidiabetic drug. The conductometric titration using monovariation method indicates that complex is ionic and of L2M type. Analytical data agree with the molecular formula of complex namely, [(C4H11N5)2Cr(H2O)2]2Cl. Geometry of complex assigned is octahedral, supported by IR, electronic spectra, magnetic moments,1H-NMR and mass studies, and proposed structure (I) for complex. X-ray diffraction data also supports the complex formation and symmetry of complex and various parameters like particle size, porosity, volume of unit cell, and density have been calculated. The Freeman-Carroll and Sharp-Wentworth methods have been used to calculate activation energy and thermal stability. The activation energy(Ea)calculated with the help of these methods are in agreement with each other. Thermodynamic parameters such as free energy change (ΔF) and entropy change are also determined on the basis of TG curves and by using data of the Freeman-Carroll method.
Dynamical Analysis of a Plateau Pika with Cross-Diffusion under Contraception Control
Authors: Wang Xiaoyan , Yang Junyuan , Zhang Fengqin
Published: February 2014

A plateau pika model with spatial cross-diffusion is investigated. By analyzing the corresponding characteristic equations, the local stability of an coexistence steady state is discussed whend21is small enough. However, whend21is large enough, the model shows Turing bifurcation ifB2 -4AC > 0. Furthermore, it is proved that if,R > R0, βK > dand cross-diffusion rates are zero, the positive coexistence steady state is globally asymptotically stable. A nonconstant positive solution bifurcates from the coexistent steady state by the Leray-Schauder degree theory. Numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the main results.
Severity of Hepatitis C Virus (Genotype-3) Infection Positively Correlates with Circulating MicroRNA-122 in Patients Sera
Authors: Kumar Subodh , Chawla Yogesh Kumar , Ghosh Sujata , Chakraborti Anuradha
Published: February 2014

Introduction. Hepatitis C virus (genotype-3) causes acute and chronic hepatitis infection predomination in India. The infectious phase of the virus requires various host factors for its survival and subsequent viral particle production. Small RNA molecules like microRNA-122 (miR-122) are one such factor mostly present in the liver and play a supportive role in viral replication.Objective. In this study, diagnostic potential of miR-122 is evaluated in the sera of chronic hepatitis C patients.Methods. miRNAs were isolated from the sera samples of patients as well as controls and miR-122 expression was quantified by real-time PCR.Results. A significant augmentation was observed in the level of circulating miR-122 (median level, 0.66 versus 0.29,P=0.001) in patients compared to controls with ROC value of0.929±0.034(P<0.001). Interestingly, miR-122 level also depicted a significant positive correlation with serum ALT (r=0.53), AST (r=0.44), and viral load (r=0.52).Conclusion. The study thus unveiled the role of miR-122 as a plausible diagnostic biomarker during HCV genotype-3 infection in India.
The Influence of Atmosphere on Electrical Property of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Minghan , Zhu Huichao , Li Xiaogan , Yu Jun , Cai Haitao , Quan Xiaotong , Wang Kaili , Zhang Jiaqi
Published: February 2014

In the present work the authors have fabricated copper oxide nanoparticles through a water bath method and investigated their composition and microstructure using XRD and TEM methods. Their electrical properties were investigated under different atmospheres and temperatures after painting them onto the insulating substrates with interdigital Pt and Au electrodes. The electric currents are found dramatically dependent on the variation of humidity, temperature, and ratio of oxygen to nitrogen. In the end, the HCHO gas sensitivity of these nanoparticles has been investigated.
Synthesis and Characterization of Hierarchical Porousα-FeOOH for the Adsorption and Photodegradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Cao Jianliang , Li Gaojie , Wang Yan , Sun Guang , Bala Hari , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Zhanying
Published: February 2014

Hierarchical porousα-FeOOH nanoparticles were controlled and prepared via a facile polystyrene (PS) microspheres-templated method. Theα-Fe2O3was obtained by the calcination of the as-preparedα-FeOOH. The resulting nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and N2-sorption techniques. The adsorption and photodegradation of Rhodamine B performance were evaluated under UV light at room temperature. The results indicated that the photocatalytic activity of theα-FeOOH nanoparticles is superior toα-Fe2O3-200 andα-Fe2O3-300 due to the hierarchically multiporous structure and high surface area. This convenient and low-cost process provides a rational synthesis alternative for the preparation of multiporous materials and the as-synthesis products have great foreground applications in many aspects.
Further Results on the Nullity of Signed Graphs
Authors: Liu Yu , You Lihua
Published: February 2014

The nullity of a graph is the multiplicity of the eigenvalue zero in its spectrum. A signed graph is a graph with a sign attached to each of its edges. In this paper, we apply the coefficient theorem on the characteristic polynomial of a signed graph and give two formulae on the nullity of signed graphs with cut-points. As applications of the above results, we investigate the nullity of the bicyclic signed graphΓ∞p,q,l, obtain the nullity set of unbalanced bicyclic signed graphs, and thus determine the nullity set of bicyclic signed graphs.
Swimming Exercise Changes Hemodynamic Responses Evoked by Blockade of Excitatory Amino Receptors in the Rostral Ventrolateral Medulla in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Ogihara Cristiana A. , Schoorlemmer Gerhardus H. M. , Lazari Maria de Fátima M. , Giannocco Gisele , Lopes Oswaldo U. , Colombari Eduardo , Sato Monica A.
Published: February 2014

Exercise training reduces sympathetic activity in hypertensive humans and rats. We hypothesized that the swimming exercise would change the neurotransmission in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM), a key region involved in sympathetic outflow, and hemodynamic control in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Bilateral injections of kynurenic acid (KYN) were carried out in the RVLM in sedentary- (S-) or exercised- (E-) SHR and WKY rats submitted to swimming for 6  weeks. Rats wereα-chloralose anesthetized and artificially ventilated, with Doppler flow probes around the lower abdominal aorta and superior mesenteric artery. Injections into the RVLM were made before and after i.v. L-NAME (nitric oxide synthase, NOS, inhibitor). Injections of KYN into the RVLM elicited a major vasodilation in the hindlimb more than in the mesenteric artery in E-SHR compared to S-SHR, but similar decrease in arterial pressure was observed in both groups. Injections of KYN into the RVLM after i.v. L-NAME attenuated the hindlimb vasodilation evoked by KYN and increased the mesenteric vasodilation in E-SHR. Swimming exercise can enhance the hindlimb vasodilation mediated by peripheral NO release, reducing the activation of neurons with EAA receptors in the RVLM in SHR.
A Meshfree Method for Signorini Problems Using Boundary Integral Equations
Authors: Ren Yanlin , Li Xiaolin
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a meshfree method for the numerical solution of Signorini problems. In this method, a projection iterative algorithm is used to convert the boundary inequality constraints into a fixed point equation. Then, the boundary value problem is reformulated as boundary integral equations and the unknown boundary variables are interpolated by the point interpolation scheme. Thus, only a nodal data structure on the boundary of a domain is required, and boundary conditions can be implemented directly and easily. The convergence of this method is verified theoretically. Numerical examples involving groundwater flow and electropainting problems are also provided to illustrate the performance and usefulness of the method.
Software Frameworks for Model Composition
Authors: Petty Mikel D. , Kim Jungyoon , Barbosa Salvador E. , Pyun Jai-Jeong
Published: February 2014

A software framework is an architecture or infrastructure intended to enable the integration and interoperation of software components. Specialized types of software frameworks are those specifically intended to support the composition of models or other components within a simulation system. Such frameworks are intended to simplify the process of assembling a complex model or simulation system from simpler component models as well as to promote the reuse of the component models. Several different types of software frameworks for model composition have been designed and implemented; those types include common library, product line architecture, interoperability protocol, object model, formal, and integrative environment. The various framework types have different components, processes for composing models, and intended applications. In this survey the fundamental terms and concepts of software frameworks for model composition are presented, the different types of such frameworks are explained and compared, and important examples of each type are described.
High-Transmittance Subwavelength Metal Grating with Relief Structure Composed of Multiple Steps
Authors: Wang Zhongfei , Zhang Dawei , Wang Qi , Xu Banglian , Tang Qingyong , Huang Yuanshen , Zhuang Songlin
Published: February 2014

A new kind of subwavelength metal grating with relief structure is designed and analyzed, in which the shape of the grating lines is no longer a single rectangle, but a relief structure with multiple steps. GsolverV52 was used to determine the optimal values of the grating period, groove depth, and the number of steps. The optical performance of the novel structure is evaluated and compared in terms of the transmission efficiency and extinction ratio over the visible and near-infrared wavelength spectrum. It is shown that, in the near-infrared band, the maximum transmittance can be increased about 15% compared to the traditional metal grating under the same parameters. With the unique characteristics, the metal grating is expected to find applications in liquid crystal display fields, polarization imaging, optical communication, and so on.
Three Solutions Theorem forp-Laplacian Problems with a Singular Weight and Its Application
Authors: Lee Yong-Hoon , Kim Seong-Uk , Lee Eun Kyoung
Published: February 2014

We prove Amann type three solutions theorem for one dimensionalp-Laplacian problems with a singular weight function. To prove this theorem, we define a strong upper and lower solutions and compute the Leray-Schauder degree on a newly established weighted solution space. As an application, we consider the combustion model and show the existence of three positive radial solutions on an exterior domain.
Does Task-Oriented Practice Improve Upper Extremity Motor Recovery after Stroke? A Systematic Review
Authors: Bosch Jackie , O’Donnell Martin J. , Barreca Susan , Thabane Lehana , Wishart Laurie
Published: February 2014

Background. Stroke commonly affects upper extremity motor abilities, yet there has been very limited success in developing effective rehabilitation interventions to remediate motor impairments, particularly for the upper extremity. Objective. To determine if task-oriented practice administered soon after stroke is more effective than usual care in improving poststroke upper extremity motor recovery and to explore the optimal amount of practice. Methods. A systematic review of the literature was performed from 1950 to November 2012, to identify randomized controlled trials of task-oriented practice compared to usual care, or to different amounts of task-oriented practice to improve motor impairment and activity. Studies were excluded if specific types of interventions were used as comparators or if they were of poor methodological quality. Results. Six studies met the review criteria. Three of the six studies demonstrated a statistically significant effect of task-oriented practice. Study results could not be pooled because of a lack of homogeneity in populations and intervention. Conclusions. The results demonstrate that an increase in the amount of task-oriented practice after stroke may result in less upper extremity impairment; further research on both effect and required dosage is needed as results are inconsistent.
A Novel Diabetic Murine Model ofCandida albicans-Induced Mucosal Inflammation and Proliferation
Authors: Sano Tomoya , Ozaki Kiyokazu , Terayama Yui , Kodama Yasushi , Matsuura Tetsuro
Published: February 2014

Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis (CHC) lesions will progress to dysplasia with some of these developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). It is well known that diabetic patients are predisposed to candidiasis. Previously, we found that alloxan-induced diabetic rats spontaneously have mucosal hyperplasia withC. albicansinfection and that those lesions progress to SCC. Here, we developed a rat model of candidiasis with diabetes progressing to mucosal proliferation. Diabetes was induced in thirty rats by single intravenous administration of alloxan. Ten nondiabetic rats and fifteen diabetic rats then receivedC. albicanscontaining solution orally, and additional fifteen diabetic rats received saline in the same manner. The administration ofC. albicansinduced mucosal candidiasis and the related mucosal hyperplastic changes in all the diabetic rats and progressed to SCC in one rat. Chronic suppurative inflammation of the mucosa developed in the forestomach with infection byC. albicans. The same lesions were only detected in the forestomach of 4 diabetic rats withoutC. albicanstreatment. AfterC. albicanstreatment, none of the nondiabetic rats showed mucosal changes or fungus infection in the forestomach. These findings demonstrate that a prolonged diabetic condition can causeC. albicansinfection and enhanceC. albicans-related mucosal hyperplasia.
Concrete Mix Design for Service Life of RC Structures under Carbonation Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Kwon Seung-Jun , Lee Byung Jae , Kim Yun Yong
Published: February 2014

Steel corrosion in reinforced concrete (RC) structure is such a critical problem to structural safety that many researches have been performed for maintaining required performance during intended service life. This paper is for a numerical technique for obtaining optimum concrete mix proportions through genetic algorithm (GA) for RC structures under carbonation which is considered as a serious deterioration in underground sites and big cities. For this study, mix proportions and CO2diffusion coefficients are analyzed through the previous studies, and then the fitness function of CO2diffusion coefficient is derived through regression analysis. The fitness function from 69 test results includes 5 variables of mix proportions such as w/c (water to cement) ratio, cement content, sand content percentage, coarse aggregate content, and R.H. (relative humidity). Through GA technique, simulated mix proportions are obtained for 12 cases of verification and they show reasonable results with average relative error of 4.6%. Assuming intended service life and design parameters, intended CO2diffusion coefficients and cement contents are determined and then related mix proportions are simulated. The proposed technique can provide initial concrete mix proportions which satisfy service life under carbonation.
Antioxidant Status of Vigna mungo L. in Response to Sulfur Nutrition
Authors: Chandra Neelam , Pandey Nalini
Published: February 2014

Black gram (Vigna mungo L. var. DPU-88-31), an edible legume, was grown at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 meq S L−1 to study the effect of deficient and excess level of sulfur on oxidative metabolism. Plants supplied by 4 meq S L−1 showed optimum yield. Sulfur deficient plants (1 and 2 meq S L−1) showed reduction in growth and chlorosis of young leaves. Tissue sulfur and cysteine concentration was increased with increasing sulfur supply. The thresholds for critical concentration of sulfur deficiency and toxicity were 0.315% and 0.434% dry weight. Biomass and photoassimilatory pigments were decreased and carbohydrates (sugar and starch) were accumulated in leaves of sulfur deficient and excess plants. Accumulation of hydrogen peroxide and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in sulfur deficient and excess plants caused oxidative damage in plants which was also evident by the increase in the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and concentration of ascorbate and nonprotein thiols.
Metabolomics Network Characterization of Resuscitation after Normocapnic Hypoxia in a Newborn Piglet Model Supports the Hypothesis That Room Air Is Better
Authors: Fanos V. , Noto A. , Xanthos T. , Lussu M. , Murgia F. , Barberini L. , Finco G. , d'Aloja E. , Papalois A. , Iacovidou N. , Atzori L.
Published: February 2014

Perinatal asphyxia is attributed to hypoxia and/or ischemia around the time of birth and may lead to multiorgan dysfunction. Aim of this research article is to investigate whether different metabolomic profiles occurred according to oxygen concentration administered at resuscitation. In order to perform the experiment, forty newborn piglets were subjected to normocapnic hypoxia and reoxygenation and were randomly allocated in 4 groups resuscitated with different oxygen concentrations, 18%, 21%, 40%, and 100%, respectively. Urine metabolic profiles at baseline and at hypoxia were analysed by1H-NMR spectroscopy and metabolites were also identified by multivariate statistical analysis. Metabolic pathways associations were also built up by ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA). Bioinformatics analysis of metabolites characterized the effect of metabolism in the 4 groups; it showed that the 21% of oxygen is the most “physiological” and appropriate concentration to be used for resuscitation. Our data indicate that resuscitation with 21% of oxygen seems to be optimal in terms of survival, rapidity of resuscitation, and metabolic profile in the present animal model. These findings need to be confirmed with metabolomics in human and, if so, the knowledge of the perinatal asphyxia condition may significantly improve.
A Model for Influence of Nuclear‐Electricity Industry on Area Economy
Authors: Ouyang Zigen , Wang Hui
Published: February 2014

A model for Influence of Nuclear‐Electricity Industry on Area Economy is established in this paper; we obtain an existence condition of solutions. Further, the approximation conditions are also constructed; the economic aggregate will tends to the equilibriums point as time tend to infinity.
Spherical Wave Propagation in a Poroelastic Medium with Infinite Permeability: Time Domain Solution
Authors: Ozyazicioglu Mehmet
Published: February 2014

Exact time domain solutions for displacement and porepressure are derived for waves emanating from a pressurized spherical cavity, in an infinitely permeable poroelastic medium with a permeable boundary. Cases for blast and exponentially decaying step pulse loadings are considered; letter case, in the limit as decay constant goes to zero, also covers the step (uniform) pressure. Solutions clearly show the propagation of the second (slow)p-wave. Furthermore, Biot modulusQis shown to have a pronounced influence on wave propagation characteristics in poroelastic media. Results are compared with solutions in classical elasticity theory.
Quality Improvement Policies in a Supply Chain with Stackelberg Games
Authors: Xie Gang , Yue Wuyi , Wang Shouyang
Published: February 2014

We first analyze quality and price decisions in a supply chain with two Stackelberg games: Manufacturer’s Stackelberg (MS) and Supplier’s Stackelberg (SS). Then, we investigate how equilibrium solutions are influenced by proposed quality improvement policies: coordination and manufacturer’s involvement. Also, we derive the conditions under which the policies can be implemented in both MS and SS strategies. Numerical experiments illustrate the problems and several related issues are discussed. The results suggest that proposed quality improvement policies can realize Pareto improvement for the supply chain performance.
Profile Measurement Based on Focus Variation Method for Geometrical Defect Evaluation: A Case Study of Cold Forged Propeller Blade
Authors: Abdullah A. B. , Sapuan S. M. , Samad Z.
Published: February 2014

Geometrical defect is one of the main problems that will affect performance and perfect mating of produced parts. Coordinate measurement machine (CMM) is commonly used for the measurement, but the use of this machine is limited because of the small size and complexity of the component or features. This study aims to evaluate the defect that occurs on an AA6061 cold forging blade produced using cold forging process based on profile measurement technique. A systematic approach based on focus variation was proposed to evaluate two features, that is, roundness error and twist deviation. The profile was obtained with the use of InfiniteFocus Alicona 3D surface measurement system. Specific algorithms were developed for different cases as the evaluation of the features is discrete and the results were validated.
Adopting De Novo Programming Approach on IC Design Service Firms Resources Integration
Authors: Chen James K. C.
Published: February 2014

The semiconductor industry has very important position in computer industry, ICT field, and new electronic technology developing. The IC design service is one of key factor of semiconductor industry development. There are more than 365 IC design service firms have been established around Hsinchu Science Park in Taiwan. Building an efficient planning model for IC design service firm resources integrating is very interest issue. This study aims to construct a planning model for IC design service firm implementation resources integration. This study uses the De Novo programming as an approach of criteria alternative to achieve optimal resource allocation on IC design firm. Results show the IC design service firm should conduct open innovation concept and utilizes design outsourcing obtains cost down and enhance IC design service business performance. This plan model of De Novo programming is not only for IC design service firm and also can apply to the other industrial implementation strategic alliance/integrating resource. This plan model is a universal model for the others industries field.
Multiswitching Synchronization of a Driven Hyperchaotic Circuit Using Active Backstepping
Authors: Ajayi A. Ayotunde , Ojo S. Kayode , Vincent E. Uchechukwu , Njah N. Abdullahi
Published: February 2014

An active backstepping technique is proposed for the realization of multiswitching synchronization of periodically forced hyperchaotic Van der Pol-Duffing oscillators. The active backstepping technique is a systematic design approach with recursive procedures that skillfully optimizes the choice of Lyapunov functions and active control technique. Using the active backstepping technique, the usual master-slave synchronization scheme is extended to study the synchronization of systems with different combinations of the slave states variables with master state variables. Our numerical results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed analytical technique.
FLOC-SPANNER: An O(1) Time, Locally Self-Stabilizing Algorithm for Geometric Spanner Construction in a Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Ranganath G. , Kulathumani V.
Published: February 2014

We present a distributed algorithm for creation of geometric spanners in a wireless sensor network. Given any connected network, we show that the algorithm terminates in [Formula: see text] time, irrespective of network size. Our algorithm uses an underlying clustering algorithm as a foundation for creating spanners and only relies on the periodic heartbeat messages associated with cluster maintenance for the creation of the spanners. The algorithm is also shown to stabilize locally in the presence of node additions and deletions. The performance of our algorithm is verified using large scale simulations. The average path length ratio for routing along the spanner for large networks is shown to be less than 2.
Fast Parallel Implementation for Random Network Coding on Embedded Sensor Nodes
Authors: Choi Seong-Min , Lee Kyogu , Park Joon-Sang
Published: February 2014

Network coding is becoming essential part of network systems since it enhances system performance in various ways. To take full advantage of network coding, however, it is vital to guarantee low latency in the decoding process and thus parallelization of random network coding has drawn broad attention from the network coding community. In this paper, we investigate the problem of parallelizing random network coding for embedded sensor systems with multicore processors. Recently, general purpose graphics processing unit (GPGPU) technology has paved the way for parallelizing random network coding; however, it is not an option on embedded sensor nodes without GPUs and thus it is indispensable to leverage multicore processors which are becoming more common in embedded sensor nodes. We propose a novel random network coding parallelization technique that can fully exploit multicore processors. In our experiments, our parallel method exhibits over 150% throughput enhancement compared to existing state-of-the-art implementations on an embedded system.
An Application of a Poisson Distribution Series on Certain Analytic Functions
Authors: Porwal Saurabh
Published: February 2014

The purpose of the present paper is to introduce a Poisson distribution series and obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for this series belonging to the classesT(λ,α)andC(λ,α). We also consider an integral operator related to this series.
The Diamagnetic Susceptibility of the Tubulin Dimer
Authors: Bras Wim , Torbet James , Diakun Gregory P. , Rikken Geert L. J. A. , Diaz J. Fernando
Published: February 2014

An approximate value of the diamagnetic anisotropy of the tubulin dimer, Δχdimer, has been determined assuming axial symmetry and that only the α-helices and β-sheets contribute to the anisotropy. Two approaches have been utilized: (a) using the value for the Δχα for an α-helical peptide bond given by Pauling (1979) and (b) using the previously determined anisotropy of fibrinogen as a calibration standard. The Δχdimer≈4×10-27 JT−2 obtained from these measurements are similar to within 20%. Although Cotton-Mouton measurements alone cannot be used to estimate Δχ directly, the value we measured, CMdimer=1.41±0.03×10-8 T−2cm2mg−1, is consistent with the above estimate for Δχdimer. The method utilized for the determination of the tubulin dimer diamagnetic susceptibility is applicable to other proteins and macromolecular assemblies as well.
High Numbers of Differentiated Effector CD4 T Cells Are Found in Patients with Cancer and Correlate with Clinical Response after Neoadjuvant Therapy of Breast Cancer
Authors: Péguillet Isabelle , Milder Maud , Louis Delphine , Vincent-Salomon Anne , Dorval Thierry , Piperno-Neumann Sophie , Scholl Suzy M. , Lantz Olivier
Published: February 2014

CD4+ T cells influence tumor immunity in complex ways that are not fully understood. In this study, we characterized a population of human differentiated effector CD4+ T cells that is defined by low levels of the interleukin (IL)-2 and IL-7 receptors (CD25−CD127−). We found that this cell population expands in patients with various types of cancer, including breast cancer, to represent 2% to 20% of total CD4+ blood T lymphocytes as compared with only 0.2% to 2% in healthy individuals. Notably, these CD25−CD127−CD4 T cells expressed effector markers such as CD244 and CD11b with low levels of CD27, contrasting with the memory phenotype dominating this population in healthy individuals. These cells did not cycle in patients, nor did they secrete IL-10 or IL-17, but instead displayed cytotoxic features. Moreover, they encompassed oligoclonal expansions paralleling an expansion of effector CD8+ T cells that included tumor antigen–specific T cells. During neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer, we found that the increase in CD25−CD127− CD4+ T cells correlated with tumor regression. This observation suggested that CD4+ T cells included tumor antigen–specific cells, which may be generated by or participate in tumor regressions during chemotherapy. In summary, our results lend support to the hypothesis that CD4+ T cells are involved in human antitumor responses. Cancer Res; 74(8); 2204–16. ©2014 AACR.
Phase II Randomized Study of Figitumumab plus Docetaxel and Docetaxel Alone with Crossover for Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: de Bono Johann S. , Piulats Josep M. , Pandha Hardev S. , Petrylak Daniel P. , Saad Fred , Aparicio Luis Miguel A. , Sandhu Shahneen K. , Fong Peter , Gillessen Silke , Hudes Gary R. , Wang Tao , Scranton Judith , Pollak Michael N.
Published: February 2014

Purpose: Figitumumab is a human IgG2 monoclonal antibody targeting insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), with antitumor activity in prostate cancer. This phase II trial randomized chemotherapy-naïve men with progressing castration-resistant prostate cancer to receive figitumumab every 3 weeks with docetaxel/prednisone (Arm A) or docetaxel/prednisone alone (Arm B1). At progression on Arm B1, patients could cross over to the combination (Arm B2).

Experimental Design: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response was the primary endpoint; response assessment on the two arms was noncomparative and tested separately; H0 = 0.45 versus HA = 0.60 (α = 0.05; β = 0.09) for Arm A; H0 = 0.05 versus HA = 0.20 (α = 0.05, β = 0.10) for Arm B2. A comparison of progression-free survival (PFS) on Arms A and B1 was planned.

Results: A total of 204 patients were randomized and 199 treated (Arm A: 97; Arm B1: 102); 37 patients crossed over to Arm B2 (median number of cycles started: Arm A = 8; B1 = 8; B2 = 4). PSA responses occurred in 52% and 60% of Arms A and B1, respectively; the primary PSA response objective in Arm A was not met. Median PFS was 4.9 and 7.9 months, respectively (HR = 1.44; 95% confidence interval, 1.06–1.96). PSA response rate was 28% in Arm B2. The figitumumab combination appeared more toxic, with more treatment-related grade 3/4 adverse events (75% vs. 56%), particularly hyperglycemia, diarrhea, and asthenia, as well as treatment-related serious adverse events (41% vs. 15%), and all-causality grade 5 adverse events (18% vs. 8%).

Conclusion: IGF-1R targeting may merit further evaluation in this disease in selected populations, but combination with docetaxel is not recommended. Clin Cancer Res; 20(7); 1925–34. ©2014 AACR.