bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Two-Step Approach to Uncertainty Quantification of Core Simulators
Authors: Yankov Artem , Collins Benjamin , Klein Markus , Jessee Matthew A. , Zwermann Winfried , Velkov Kiril , Pautz Andreas , Downar Thomas
Published: December 2012

For the multiple sources of error introduced into the standard computational regime for simulating reactor cores, rigorous uncertainty analysis methods are available primarily to quantify the effects of cross section uncertainties. Two methods for propagating cross section uncertainties through core simulators are the XSUSA statistical approach and the “two-step” method. The XSUSA approach, which is based on the SUSA code package, is fundamentally a stochastic sampling method. Alternatively, the two-step method utilizes generalized perturbation theory in the first step and stochastic sampling in the second step. The consistency of these two methods in quantifying uncertainties in the multiplication factor and in the core power distribution was examined in the framework of phase I-3 of the OECD Uncertainty Analysis in Modeling benchmark. With the Three Mile Island Unit 1 core as a base model for analysis, the XSUSA and two-step methods were applied with certain limitations, and the results were compared to those produced by other stochastic sampling-based codes. Based on the uncertainty analysis results, conclusions were drawn as to the method that is currently more viable for computing uncertainties in burnup and transient calculations.
Bright Light Therapy in Parkinson's Disease: An Overview of the Background and Evidence
Authors: Rutten Sonja , Vriend Chris , van den Heuvel Odile A. , Smit Jan H. , Berendse Henk W. , van der Werf Ysbrand D.
Published: December 2012

Sleep disorders are common in Parkinson's disease (PD) and seem to be strongly associated with depression. It has been suggested that sleep disorders as well as depression are caused by a disturbed circadian rhythm. Indeed, PD patients are prone to misalignment of their circadian rhythm due to various factors, and many patients with PD display a phase advance of their circadian rhythm. Current treatment options for sleep disorders and depression in patients with PD are limited and can have serious side effects; alternative treatments are therefore badly needed. Bright light therapy (BLT) restores circadian rhythmicity effectively in mood- and sleep-disturbed patients without PD. The few studies that focused on the efficacy of BLT in patients with PD demonstrated a positive effect of BLT not only on sleep and mood but also on motor function. More research on the neurobiology and efficacy of BLT in PD is warranted.
A Case of Achalasia Presented with Cardiopulmonary Arrest
Authors: Altintoprak Fatih , Degirmenci Bumin , Dikicier Enis , Cakmak Guner , Kivilcim Taner , Yalkin Omer , Akbulut Gokhan , Dilek Osman Nuri
Published: December 2012

Achalasia is a rare disorder characterised by obstruction of the distal oesophagus and subsequent dilation of the proximal oesophagus. Patients generally complain of gastrointestinal symptoms; however, pulmonary symptoms and complications may also occur. A 35-year-old woman was brought to our emergency service complaining of sudden-onset dyspnea that started 15 minutes earlier during dinner. She suffered a cardiopulmonary arrest due to aspiration 5 minutes after being admitted to the emergency room and was intubated. Thoracic computed tomography examination showed that her oesophagus was filled with undigested food. Heller cardiomyotomy and Dor fundoplication was performed via laparotomy with the diagnosis of primary achalasia, and she was discharged as uneventful on the 5th postoperative day.
Risk Stratification after Biochemical Failure following Curative Treatment of Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer: Data from the TROG 96.01 Trial
Authors: Steigler Allison , Denham James W. , Lamb David S. , Spry Nigel A. , Joseph David , Matthews John , Atkinson Chris , Turner Sandra , North John , Christie David , Tai Keen-Hun , Wynne Chris
Published: December 2012

Purpose. Survival following biochemical failure is highly variable. Using a randomized trial dataset, we sought to define a risk stratification scheme in men with locally advanced prostate cancer (LAPC).Methods. The TROG 96.01 trial randomized 802 men with LAPC to radiation ± neoadjuvant androgen suppression therapy (AST) between 1996 and 2000. Ten-year follow-up data was used to develop three-tier post-biochemical failure risk stratification schemes based on cutpoints of time to biochemical failure (TTBF) and PSA doubling time (PSADT). Schemes were evaluated in univariable, competing risk models for prostate cancer-specific mortality. The performance was assessed by c-indices and internally validated by the simple bootstrap method. Performance rankings were compared in sensitivity analyses using multivariable models and variations in PSADT calculation.Results. 485 men developed biochemical failure. c-indices ranged between 0.630 and 0.730. The most discriminatory scheme had a high risk category defined by PSADT < 4 months or TTBF < 1 year and low risk category by PSADT > 9 months or TTBF > 3 years.Conclusion. TTBF and PSADT can be combined to define risk stratification schemes after biochemical failure in men with LAPC treated with short-term AST and radiotherapy. External validation, particularly in long-term AST and radiotherapy datasets, is necessary.
Fixed Points, Maximal Elements and Equilibria of Generalized Games in Abstract Convex Spaces
Authors: Du Yan-Mei
Published: December 2012

We firstly prove some new fixed point theorems for set‐valued mappings in noncompact abstract convex space. Next, two existence theorems of maximal elements for class of 𝒜C,θ mapping and 𝒜C,θ‐majorized mapping are obtained. As in applications, we establish new equilibria existence theorems for qualitative games and generalized games. Our theorems improve and generalize the most known results in recent literature.
Exponential Stabilizability of Switched Systems with Polytopic Uncertainties
Authors: Zhang Xia , Xia Zun-Quan , Gao Yan
Published: December 2012

The exponential stabilizability of switched nonlinear systems with polytopic uncertainties is explored by employing the methods of nonsmooth analysis and the minimum quadratic Lyapunov function. The switchings among subsystems are dependent on the directional derivative along the vertex directions of subsystems. In particular, a sufficient condition for exponential stabilizability of the switched nonlinear systems is established considering the sliding modes and the directional derivatives along sliding modes. Furthermore, the matrix conditions of exponential stabilizability are derived for the case of switched linear system and the numerical example is given to show the validity of the synthesis results.
Assessing Breast Cancer Margins Ex Vivo Using Aqueous Quantum-Dot-Molecular Probes
Authors: Au Giang H. T. , Shih Wan Y. , Shih Wei-Heng , Mejias Linette , Swami Vanlila K. , Wasko Kimberly , Brooks Ari D.
Published: December 2012

Positive margins have been a critical issue that hinders the success of breast- conserving surgery. The incidence of positive margins is estimated to range from 20% to as high as 60%. Currently, there is no effective intraoperative method for margin assessment. It would be desirable if there is a rapid and reliable breast cancer margin assessment tool in the operating room so that further surgery can be continued if necessary to reduce re-excision rate. In this study, we seek to develop a sensitive and specific molecular probe to help surgeons assess if the surgical margin is clean. The molecular probe consists of the unique aqueous quantum dots developed in our laboratory conjugated with antibodies specific to breast cancer markers such as Tn-antigen. Excised tumors from tumor-bearing nude mice were used to demonstrate the method. AQD-Tn mAb probe proved to be sensitive and specific to identify cancer area quantitatively without being affected by the heterogeneity of the tissue. The integrity of the surgical specimen was not affected by the AQD treatment. Furthermore, AQD-Tn mAb method could determine margin status within 30 minutes of tumor excision, indicating its potential as an accurate intraoperative margin assessment method.
Bubble Departure Diameter Prediction Uncertainty
Authors: Matkovič Marko , Končar Boštjan
Published: December 2012

This paper presents quality assessment of a mechanistic modelling for bubble departure diameter prediction during pool boiling condition. In contrast to flow boiling process only buoyancy force with opposing surface tension force was considered as the responsible mechanisms for bubble departure. Indeed, inertia from the fluid flow around the bubble and the growth force, which describes momentum change due to the evaporation at the bubble base and condensation at the top of the bubble, were all neglected. Besides, shear lift force and quasi-steady drag force as the dominant inertia driven forces were also neglected in the assessment. Rather than trying to model bubble dynamics as precise as possible by properly addressing all the relevant mechanisms available, the work focuses on prediction accuracy of such approach. It has been shown that inlet boundary conditions with realistic experimental accuracy may lead to a significant uncertainty in the prediction of bubble departure diameter, which is intrinsically connected to the uncertainty of most heat partitioning and CHF models.
Tolerance Induction Strategies in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation: Mixed Chimerism and Novel Developments
Authors: Leonard David A. , McGrouther Duncan A. , Kurtz Josef M. , Cetrulo Curtis L.
Published: December 2012

Since the start of the clinical vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) era over a decade ago this field has witnessed significant developments in both basic and translational research. Transplant tolerance, defined as rejection-free acceptance of transplanted organs or tissues without long-term immunosuppression, holds the potential to revolutionize the field of VCA by removing the need for life-long immunosuppression. While tolerance of organ and vascularized composite transplants may be induced in small animal models by a variety of protocols, only mixed-chimerism-based protocols have successfully bridged the gap to preclinical study and to clinical trial in solid organ transplantation to date. In this paper we review the mixed-chimerism approach to tolerance induction, with specific reference to the field of VCA transplantation, and provide an overview of some novel cellular therapies as potential adjuvants to mixed chimerism in the development of tolerance induction protocols for clinical vascularized composite allotransplantation.
CFD Parametric Studies for Global Performance Improvement of Open Refrigerated Display Cabinets
Authors: Gaspar Pedro Dinis , Carrilho Gonçalves L. C. , Pitarma R. A.
Published: December 2012

A detailed CFD modelling of an open refrigerated display cabinet has been formulated in a previous study. Some modifications are introduced in order to perform parametric studies dealing with low-cost geometrical and functional characteristics for improvement of the global performance and energy efficiency. The parametric studies are devoted to the analysis of the thermal response and behaviour inside the food conservation space influenced by (1) air flow rate through the evaporator heat exchanger; (2) air curtain behaviour; (3) hole dimensions and distribution of the back panel; (4) discharge and return grilles angles; and (5) flow deflectors inside the internal duct. The analysis of the numerical predictions from the parametric studies allows the development of an optimized model for the conception of an open refrigerated display cabinet with a more adequate configuration. The numerical predictions of the optimized model show lower product temperature and reduced electrical energy consumption, allowing the improvement of the food safety and the energy rationalization of the refrigeration equipment.
Lack of Anatomical Concordance between Preablation and Postablation CT Images: A Risk Factor Related to Ablation Site Recurrence
Authors: Kele Petra G. , Van der Jagt Eric J. , Krabbe Paul F. M. , de Jong Koert P.
Published: December 2012

Objective. Variation in the position of the liver between preablation and postablation CT images hampers assessment of treatment of colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that discordant preablation and postablation imaging is associated with more ablation site recurrences (ASRs).Methods. Patients with CRLM were included. Index-tumor size, location, number, RFA approachs and ablative margins were obtained on CT scans. Preablation and postablation CT images were assigned a “Similarity of Positioning Score” (SiPS). A suitable cutoff was determined. Images were classified as identical (SiPS-id) or nonidentical (SiPS-diff). ASR was identified prospectively on follow-up imaging.Results. Forty-seven patients with 97 tumors underwent 64 RFA procedures (39 patients/63 tumors open RFA, 25 patients/34 tumours CT-targeted RFA, 12 patients underwent >1 RFA). Images of 52 (54%) ablation sites were classified as SiPS-id, 45 (46%) as SiPS-diff. Index-tumor size, tumor location and number, concomitant partial hepatectomy, and RFA approach did not influence the SiPS. ASR developed in 11/47 (23%) patients and 20/97 (21%) tumours. ASR occurred less frequently after open RFA than after CT targeted RFA (P<0.001). ASR was associated with larger index-tumour size (18.9 versus 12.8 mm,P=0.011). Cox proportional hazard model confirmed SiPS-diff, index-tumour size >20 mm and CT-targeted RFA as independent risk factors for ASR.Conclusion. Variation in anatomical concordance between preablation and postablation images, index-tumor size, and a CT-targeted approach are risk factors for ASR in CRLM.
Development of Comprehensive Devnagari Numeral and Character Database for Offline Handwritten Character Recognition
Authors: Dongre Vikas J. , Mankar Vijay H.
Published: December 2012

In handwritten character recognition, benchmark database plays an important role in evaluating the performance of various algorithms and the results obtained by various researchers. In Devnagari script, there is lack of such official benchmark. This paper focuses on the generation of offline benchmark database for Devnagari handwritten numerals and characters. The present work generated 5137 and 20305 isolated samples for numeral and character database, respectively, from 750 writers of all ages, sex, education, and profession. The offline sample images are stored in TIFF image format as it occupies less memory. Also, the data is presented in binary level so that memory requirement is further reduced. It will facilitate research on handwriting recognition of Devnagari script through free access to the researchers.
Nonlinear Periodic Oscillation of a Cylindrical Microvoid Centered at an Isotropic Incompressible Ogden Cylinder
Authors: Zhang Wenzheng , Yuan Xuegang , Zhang Hongwu
Published: December 2012

We study the dynamic mathematical model for an infinitely long cylinder composed of an isotropic incompressible Ogden material with a microvoid at its center, where the outer surface of the cylinder is subjected to a uniform radial tensile load. Using the incompressibility condition and the boundary conditions, we obtain a second‐order nonlinear ordinary differential equation that describes the motion of the microvoid with time. Qualitatively, we find that this equation has two types of solutions. One is a classical nonlinear periodic solution which describes that the motion of the microvoid is a nonlinear periodic oscillation; the other is a blow‐up solution. Significantly, for the isotropic incompressible Ogden material, there exist some special values of material parameters, the phase diagrams of the motion equation have homoclinic orbits, which means that the amplitude of a nonlinear periodic oscillation increases discontinuously with the increasing load.
Some Chaotic Properties of Discrete Fuzzy Dynamical Systems
Authors: Lan Yaoyao , Li Qingguo , Mu Chunlai , Huang Hua
Published: December 2012

Letting (X, d) be a metric space, f : X → X a continuous map, and (ℱ(X), D) the space of nonempty fuzzy compact subsets of X with the Hausdorff metric, one may study the dynamical properties of the Zadeh′s extension . In this paper, we present, as a response to the question proposed by Román‐Flores and Chalco‐Cano 2008, some chaotic relations between f and . More specifically, we study the transitivity, weakly mixing, periodic density in system (X, f), and its connections with the same ones in its fuzzified system.
A Tikhonov‐Type Regularization Method for Identifying the Unknown Source in the Modified Helmholtz Equation
Authors: Gao Jinghuai , Wang Dehua , Peng Jigen
Published: December 2012

An inverse source problem in the modified Helmholtz equation is considered. We give a Tikhonov‐type regularization method and set up a theoretical frame to analyze the convergence of such method. A priori and a posteriori choice rules to find the regularization parameter are given. Numerical tests are presented to illustrate the effectiveness and stability of our proposed method.
Travelling Wave Solutions to the Benney‐Luke and the Higher‐Order Improved Boussinesq Equations of Sobolev Type
Authors: Gözükızıl Ömer Faruk , Akçağıl Şamil
Published: December 2012

By using the tanh‐coth method, we obtained some travelling wave solutions of two well‐known nonlinear Sobolev type partial differential equations, namely, the Benney‐Luke equation and the higher‐order improved Boussinesq equation. We show that the tanh‐coth method is a useful, reliable, and concise method to solve these types of equations.
Reflective Full Subcategories of the Category of L‐Posets
Authors: Liu Hongping , Li Qingguo , Zhou Xiangnan
Published: December 2012

This paper focuses on the relationship between L‐posets and complete L‐lattices from the categorical view. By considering a special class of fuzzy closure operators, we prove that the category of complete L‐lattices is a reflective full subcategory of the category of L‐posets with appropriate morphisms. Moreover, we characterize the Dedekind‐MacNeille completions of L‐posets and provide an equivalent description for them.
Offset Optimization Based on Queue Length Constraint for Saturated Arterial Intersections
Authors: Song Xianmin , Tao Pengfei , Chen Ligang , Wang Dianhai
Published: December 2012

Offset optimization is of critical importance to the traffic control system, especially when spillovers appear. In order to avoid vehicle queue spillovers, an arterial offset optimization model was presented in saturated arterial intersections based on minimizing the queue length over the whole duration of the saturated traffic environment. The paper uses the shockwave theory to analyze the queue evolution process of the intersection approach under the saturated traffic environment. Then through establishing and analyzing a function relationship between offset and the maximum queue length per cycle, a mapping model of offset and maximum queue length was established in the saturated condition. The validity and sensitivity of this model were tested by the VISSIM simulation environment. Finally, results showed that when volumes ratios are 0.525–0.6, adjusting offset reasonably under the saturated condition could decrease the queue length and effectively improve the vehicle operating efficiency.
Characterizations of Strongly Paracompact Spaces
Authors: Zhang Xin
Published: December 2012

Characterizations of strongly compact spaces are given based on the existence of a star‐countable open refinement for every increasing open cover. It is proved that a countably paracompact normal space (a perfectly normal space or a monotonically normal space) is strongly paracompact if and only if every increasing open cover of the space has a star‐countable open refinement. Moreover, it is shown that a space is linearly D provided that every increasing open cover of the space has a point‐countable open refinement.
Partly Separated Activations in the Spatial Distribution betweende-qiand Sharp Pain during Acupuncture Stimulation: An fMRI-Based Study
Authors: Sun Jinbo , Zhu Yuanqiang , Jin Lingmin , Yang Yang , von Deneen Karen M. , Qin Wei , Gong Qiyong , Tian Jie
Published: December 2012

Nowadays, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has become one of the most important ways to explore the central mechanism of acupuncture. Among these studies, activations around the somatosensory-related brain network had the most robust blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) responses. However, due to the insufficient control of the subjective sensations during acupuncture stimulation, whether these robust activations reflected the pattern ofde-qi, sharp pain, ormixed(de-qi+ sharp pain) sensations was largely unknown. The current study recruited 50 subjects and grouped them into two groups according to whether he/she experienced sharp pain during acupuncture stimulation to give a definite answer to the aforesaid question. Our results indicated that BOLD responses associated withde-qiduring acupuncture stimulation at ST36 were activation dominated. Furthermore, both the quantitative and qualitative differences of BOLD responses betweende-qiand mixed sensations evoked by acupuncture stimulation were significant. The pattern of BOLD responses of sharp pain might be partly separated from that ofde-qiin the spatial distribution. Therefore, we proposed that in order to explore the specific central mechanism of acupuncture, subjects with sharp pain should be excluded from those with onlyde-qi.
Weak Sharp Minima in Set‐Valued Optimization Problems
Authors: Jin Ming-hao , Wang Jun-xiang , Xu Shu
Published: December 2012

We introduce the notion of a weak ψ‐sharp minimizer for set‐valued optimization problems. We present some sufficient and necessary conditions that a pair point is a weak ψ‐sharp minimizer through the outer limit of set‐valued map and develop the characterization of the weak ψ‐sharp minimizer in terms of a generalized nonlinear scalarization function. These results extend the corresponding ones in Studniarski (2007).
Photovoltaic Power System with an Interleaving Boost Converter for Battery Charger Applications
Authors: Tseng Sheng-Yu , Tsai Cheng-Tao
Published: December 2012

This paper proposes a photovoltaic (PV) power system for battery charger applications. The charger uses an interleaving boost converter with a single-capacitor turn-off snubber to reduce voltage stresses of active switches at turn-off transition. Therefore, active switches of the charger can be operated with zero-voltage transition (ZVT) to decrease switching losses and increase conversion efficiency. In order to draw the maximum power from PV arrays and obtain the optimal power control of the battery charger, a perturbation-and-observation method and microchip are incorporated to implement maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm and power management. Finally, a prototype battery charger is built and implemented. Experimental results have verified the performance and feasibility of the proposed PV power system for battery charger applications.
Lungs in Heart Failure
Authors: Apostolo Anna , Giusti Giuliano , Gargiulo Paola , Bussotti Maurizio , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: December 2012

Lung function abnormalities both at rest and during exercise are frequently observed in patients with chronic heart failure, also in the absence of respiratory disease. Alterations of respiratory mechanics and of gas exchange capacity are strictly related to heart failure. Severe heart failure patients often show a restrictive respiratory pattern, secondary to heart enlargement and increased lung fluids, and impairment of alveolar-capillary gas diffusion, mainly due to an increased resistance to molecular diffusion across the alveolar capillary membrane. Reduced gas diffusion contributes to exercise intolerance and to a worse prognosis. Cardiopulmonary exercise test is considered the “gold standard” when studying the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic adaptations to exercise in cardiac patients. During exercise, hyperventilation and consequent reduction of ventilation efficiency are often observed in heart failure patients, resulting in an increased slope of ventilation/carbon dioxide (VE/VCO2) relationship. Ventilatory efficiency is as strong prognostic and an important stratification marker. This paper describes the pulmonary abnormalities at rest and during exercise in the patients with heart failure, highlighting the principal diagnostic tools for evaluation of lungs function, the possible pharmacological interventions, and the parameters that could be useful in prognostic assessment of heart failure patients.
A Hybrid Approach Using an Artificial Bee Algorithm with Mixed Integer Programming Applied to a Large‐Scale Capacitated Facility Location Problem
Authors: Cabrera G. Guillermo , Cabrera Enrique , Soto Ricardo , Rubio L. Jose Miguel , Crawford Broderick , Paredes Fernando
Published: December 2012

We present a hybridization of two different approaches applied to the well‐known Capacitated Facility Location Problem (CFLP). The Artificial Bee algorithm (BA) is used to select a promising subset of locations (warehouses) which are solely included in the Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) model. Next, the algorithm solves the subproblem by considering the entire set of customers. The hybrid implementation allows us to bypass certain inherited weaknesses of each algorithm, which means that we are able to find an optimal solution in an acceptable computational time. In this paper we demonstrate that BA can be significantly improved by use of the MIP algorithm. At the same time, our hybrid implementation allows the MIP algorithm to reach the optimal solution in a considerably shorter time than is needed to solve the model using the entire dataset directly within the model. Our hybrid approach outperforms the results obtained by each technique separately. It is able to find the optimal solution in a shorter time than each technique on its own, and the results are highly competitive with the state‐of‐the‐art in large‐scale optimization. Furthermore, according to our results, combining the BA with a mathematical programming approach appears to be an interesting research area in combinatorial optimization.
Hochuekkito (TJ-41), a Kampo Formula, Ameliorates Cachexia Induced by Colon 26 Adenocarcinoma in Mice
Authors: Yae Suzu , Takahashi Fumiyuki , Yae Toshifumi , Yamaguchi Takuji , Tsukada Rika , Koike Kengo , Minakata Kunihiko , Murakami Akiko , Nurwidya Fariz , Kato Motoyasu , Tamada Mayumi , Yoshikawa Momoko , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Seyama Kuniaki , Takahashi Kazuhisa
Published: December 2012

Cachexia, a major cause of cancer-related death, is characterized by depletion of muscle and fat tissues, anorexia, asthenia, and hypoglycemia. Recent studies indicate that secretions of proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) play a crucial role in cachexia development, and that these cytokines are secreted from not only cancer cells but also host cells such as macrophages. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of hochuekkito, a Kampo formula, on cachexia induced by colon 26 adenocarcinoma in mice. Hochuekkito treatment did not inhibit tumor growth, but significantly attenuated the reduction in carcass weight, food and water intake, weight of the gastrocnemius muscle and fat tissue around the testes, and decrease of serum triglyceride level compared with controls. Furthermore, hochuekkito treatment significantly reduced serum IL-6 level and IL-6 expression level in macrophages in tissues surrounding the tumor. In vitro studies showed that hochuekkito suppressed the production of IL-6 by THP-1 or RAW264.7 macrophage cells, although it did not affect IL-6 production by colon 26 carcinoma cells. These results suggest that hochuekkito inhibits the production of proinflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-6, by host cells such as macrophages. Therefore, hochuekkito may be a promising anticachectic agent for the treatment of patients with cancer.
Explicit Solution of Telegraph Equation Based on Reproducing Kernel Method
Authors: Inc Mustafa , Akgül Ali , Kiliçman Adem
Published: December 2012

We propose a reproducing kernel method for solving the telegraph equation with initial conditions based on the reproducing kernel theory. The exact solution is represented in the form of series, and some numerical examples have been studied in order to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the technique. The method shows that the implement seems easy and produces accurate results.
The Extension of Quality Function Deployment Based on 2‐Tuple Linguistic Representation Model for Product Design under Multigranularity Linguistic Environment
Authors: Li Ming
Published: December 2012

Quality function deployment (QFD) is a customer‐driven approach for product design and development. A QFD analysis process includes a series of subprocesses, such as determination of the importance of customer requirements (CRs), the correlation among engineering characteristics (ECs), and the relationship between CRs and ECs. Usually more than group of one decision makers are involved in the subprocesses to make the decision. In most decision making problems, they often provide their evaluation information in the linguistic form. Moreover, because of different knowledge, background, and discrimination ability, decision makers may express their linguistic preferences in multigranularity linguistic information. Therefore, an effective approach to deal with the multi‐granularity linguistic information in QFD analysis process is highly needed. In this study, the QFD methodology is extended with 2‐tuple linguistic representation model under multi‐granularity linguistic environment. The extended QFD methodology can cope with multi‐granularity linguistic evaluation information and avoid the loss of information. The applicability of the proposed approach is demonstrated with a numerical example.
In VitroCulture-Induced Pluripotency of Human Spermatogonial Stem Cells
Authors: Lim Jung Jin , Kim Hyung Joon , Kim Kye-Seong , Hong Jae Yup , Lee Dong Ryul
Published: December 2012

Unipotent spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) can be transformed into ESC-like cells that exhibit pluripotencyin vitro. However, except for mouse models, their characterization and their origins have remained controversies in other models including humans. This controversy has arisen primarily from the lack of the direct induction of ESC-like cells from well-characterized SSCs. Thus, the aim of the present study was to find and characterize pluripotent human SSCs inin vitrocultures of characterized SSCs. Human testicular tissues were dissociated and plated onto gelatin/laminin-coated dishes to isolate SSCs. In the presence of growth factors SSCs formed multicellular clumps after 2–4 weeks of culture. At passages 1 and 5, the clumps were dissociated and were then analyzed using markers of pluripotent cells. The number of SSEA-4-positive cells was extremely low but increased gradually up to ~ 10% in the SSC clumps during culture. Most of the SSEA-4-negative cells expressed markers for SSCs, and some cells coexpressed markers of both pluripotent and germ cells. The pluripotent cells formed embryoid bodies and teratomas that contained derivatives of the three germ layers in SCID mice. These results suggest that the pluripotent cells present within the clumps were derived directly from SSCs duringin vitroculture.
Comparison of International Normalized Ratio Measurement between CoaguChek XS Plus and STA-R Coagulation Analyzers
Authors: Hur Mina , Kim Hanah , Park Chul Min , La Gioia Antonio , Choi Sang-Gyu , Choi Ju-Hee , Moon Hee-Won , Yun Yeo-Min
Published: December 2012

Background. Point-of-care testing (POCT) coagulometers are increasingly being used in the hospital setting. We investigated whether the prothrombin time international normalized ratio (INR) results by CoaguChek XS Plus (Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Mannheim, Germany) can be used reliably without being confirmed with the INR results by STA-R system (Diagnostica Stago S.A.S, Asnières sur Seine, France).Methods. A total of 118 INR measurements by CoaguChek XS Plus and STA-R were compared using Passing/Bablok regression analysis and Bland-Altman plot. Agreement of the INR measurements was further assessed in relation to dosing decision.Results. The correlation of INR measurements between CoaguChek XS Plus and STA-R was excellent (correlation coefficient = 0.964). The mean difference tended to increase as INR results increased and was 0.25 INR in the therapeutic range (2.0-3.0 INR). The overall agreement was fair to good (kappa = 0.679), and 21/118 (17.8%) INR measurements showed a difference in dosing decision.Conclusion. The positive bias of CoaguChek XS Plus may be obvious even in the therapeutic INR range, and dosing decision based on the CoaguChek XS Plus INR results would be different from that based on the STA-R results. The INR measurements by POCT coagulometers still need to be confirmed with the laboratory INR measurements.
Processing and Properties of Natural Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composite
Authors: Dhal Jyoti Prakash , Mishra S. C.
Published: December 2012

A novel low cost polymer composite using brown grass flower broom reinforcement is prepared. The prepared polymer composite has the lowest porosity, homogeneous surface structure, and the greatest interface bonding. From the physico-mechanical characterization such as: hardness measurement, density measurement, void fraction or porosity measurement, and flexural strength measurement, it is found that the prepared composite is of light weight and high strength. Again, from dielectric behaviour of this polymer composite, it is found that this material has an efficiency that is considered as a high valued marketable product. As the composite is made using bio-materials from local resources, its cost is less compared to other polymer composites available today.
The Use of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy for Quantification of Adulteration in Virgin Walnut Oil
Authors: Liang Pengjuan , Wang Hao , Chen Chaoyin , Ge Feng , Liu Diqiu , Li Shiqi , Han Benyong , Xiong Xianfeng , Zhao Shenglan
Published: December 2012

Currently, the authentication of virgin walnut oil (VWO) has become very important due to the possible adulteration of VWO with cheaper plant oils such as soybean oil (SO), puer tea seed oil (PO), and sunflower oil (SFO). Methods involving Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy combined with chemometric techniques (partial least square) were developed for quantification of SO, PO, and SFO in VWO. IR spectra of oil samples were recorded at frequency regions of 4000–650 cm−1on horizontal attenuated total reflectance (HATR) attachment of FT-IR. PLS model correlates the actual and FT-IR estimated values of oil adulterants (SO, PO, and SFO) with coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.9958, 0.9925, and 0.9952, respectively. The obtained RMSEC values of SO, PO, and SFO in VWO are 1.35%, 1.85%, and 1.43% (v/v), respectively. The method, therefore, has potential as a rapid method for quantification of product adulteration.
Toxicity of Silver Nanoparticles at the Air-Liquid Interface
Authors: Holder Amara L. , Marr Linsey C.
Published: December 2012

Silver nanoparticles are one of the most prevalent nanomaterials in consumer products. Some of these products are likely to be aerosolized, making silver nanoparticles a high priority for inhalation toxicity assessment. To study the inhalation toxicity of silver nanoparticles, we have exposed cultured lung cells to them at the air-liquid interface. Cells were exposed to suspensions of silver or nickel oxide (positive control) nanoparticles at concentrations of 2.6, 6.6, and 13.2 μg cm−2(volume concentrations of 10, 25, and 50 μg ml−1) and to 0.7 μg cm−2silver or 2.1 μg cm−2nickel oxide aerosol at the air-liquid interface. Unlike a number ofin vitrostudies employing suspensions of silver nanoparticles, which have shown strong toxic effects, both suspensions and aerosolized nanoparticles caused negligible cytotoxicity and only a mild inflammatory response, in agreement with animal exposures. Additionally, we have developed a novel method using a differential mobility analyzer to select aerosolized nanoparticles of a single diameter to assess the size-dependent toxicity of silver nanoparticles.
Comparison of Three Multiple Allergen Simultaneous Tests: RIDA Allergy Screen, MAST Optigen, and Polycheck Allergy
Authors: Han Minje , Shin Sue , Park Hyewon , Park Kyoung Un , Park Myoung Hee , Song Eun Young
Published: December 2012

We compared the performances of 3 Multiple Allergen Simultaneous Test (MAST) assays: RIDA Allergy Screen (R-Biopharm, Darmstadt, Germany), MAST Optigen allergy system (Hitachi Chemical Diagnostics, Mountain View, CA), and Polycheck Allergy (Biocheck GmbH, Munster, Germany). Forty sera that tested positive with the RIDA Allergy Screen (20 for food and 20 for inhalant panel) were subjected to MAST Optigen and Polycheck Allergy. For 26 available sera with discrepant results, 62 ImmunoCAP allergen-specific IgE tests (Pharmacia Diagnostics, Uppsala, Sweden) were performed. Percent agreements (kappa value) were 87.6% (0.59) and 91.3% (0.60) between RIDA and MAST; 89.9% (0.55) and 88.3% (0.46) between RIDA and Polycheck; and 86.8% (0.51) and 90.6% (0.61) between MAST and Polycheck. Compared with ImmunoCAP, agreements (kappa value) of inhalant and food panels were 51.7% (0.04) and 33.3% (−0.38) for RIDA; 60.7% (0.27) and 81.8% (0.59) for MAST; and 65.5% (0.26) and 45.5% (0.07) for Polycheck. The agreements between RIDA, MAST, and Polycheck and ImmunoCAP-positivity were 45.7%, 88.2%, and 28.6%, respectively, and the agreements for ImmunoCAP-negativity were 37.0%, 51.9%, and 88.9%. MAST Optigen showed better agreement with ImmunoCAP than other assays in the food panel. Better sensitivity of MAST Optigen and better specificity of Polycheck Allergy were suspected.
Use of Photodynamic Therapy for Treatment of Actinic Keratoses in Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Wlodek Christina , Ali Faisal R. , Lear John T.
Published: December 2012

Solid organ transplant recipients are predisposed to actinic keratoses (AK) and nonmelanoma skin cancers, owing to the lifelong immunosuppression required. Today, increasing numbers of organ transplants are being performed and organ transplant recipients (OTRs) are surviving much longer. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is proving a highly effective treatment modality for AK amongst this susceptible group of patients. Following an overview of the pathogenesis of AK amongst OTRs, the authors review current safety and efficacy data and how this relates to the role of PDT for the treatment of AK in OTRs.
High Insulin and Leptin Increase Resistin and Inflammatory Cytokine Production from Human Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Tsiotra Panayoula C. , Boutati Eleni , Dimitriadis George , Raptis Sotirios A.
Published: December 2012

Resistin and the proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, produced by adipocytes, and macrophages, are considered to be important modulators of chronic inflammation contributing to the development of obesity and atherosclerosis. Human monocyte-enriched mononuclear cells, from ten healthy individuals, were exposed to high concentrations of insulin, leptin, and glucose (alone or in combination) for 24 hoursin vitro. Resistin, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1βproduction was examined and compared to that in untreated cells. High insulin and leptin concentrations significantly upregulated resistin and the cytokines. The subsequent addition of high glucose significantly upregulated resistin and TNF-αmRNA and protein secretion, while it did not have any effect on IL-6 or IL-1βproduction. By comparison, exposure to dexamethasone reduced TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1βproduction, while at this time point it increased resistin protein secretion. These data suggest that the expression of resistin, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1βfrom human mononuclear cells, might be enhanced by the hyperinsulinemia and hyperleptinemia and possibly by the hyperglycemia in metabolic diseases as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Therefore, the above increased production may contribute to detrimental effects of their increased adipocyte-derived circulating levels on systemic inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and endothelial function of these patients.
Doping the Buckminsterfullerene by Substitution: Density Functional Theory Studies of C59X (X = B, N, Al, Si, P, Ga, Ge, and As)
Authors: Bai Hongcun , Ji Wenxin , Liu Xiangyu , Wang Liqiong , Yuan Nini , Ji Yongqiang
Published: December 2012

The heterofullerenes C59X (X = B, N, Al, Si, P, Ga, Ge, and As) were investigated by quantum chemistry calculations based on density functional theory. These hybrid cages can be seen as doping the buckminsterfullerene by heteroatom substitution. The geometrical structures, relative stabilities, electronic properties, vibrational frequencies, dielectric constants, and aromaticities of the doped cages were studied systemically and compared with those of the pristine C60 cage. It is found that the doped cages with different heteroatoms exhibit various electronic, vibrational, and aromatic properties. These results imply the possibility to modulate the physical properties of these fullerene‐based materials by tuning substitution elements.
Role of the Microenvironment in Ovarian Cancer Stem Cell Maintenance
Authors: Pasquier Jennifer , Rafii Arash
Published: December 2012

Despite recent progresses in cancer therapy and increased knowledge in cancer biology, ovarian cancer remains a challenging condition. Among the latest concepts developed in cancer biology, cancer stem cells and the role of microenvironment in tumor progression seem to be related. Indeed, cancer stem cells have been described in several solid tumors including ovarian cancers. These particular cells have the ability to self-renew and reconstitute a heterogeneous tumor. They are characterized by specific surface markers and display resistance to therapeutic regimens. During development, specific molecular cues from the tumor microenvironment can play a role in maintaining and expanding stemness of cancer cells. The tumor stroma contains several compartments: cellular component, cytokine network, and extracellular matrix. These different compartments interact to form a permissive niche for the cancer stem cells. Understanding the molecular cues underlying this crosstalk will allow the design of new therapeutic regimens targeting the niche. In this paper, we will discuss the mechanisms implicated in the interaction between ovarian cancer stem cells and their microenvironment.
Application of Electrocoagulation Process for Dairy Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Bazrafshan Edris , Moein Hossein , Kord Mostafapour Ferdos , Nakhaie Shima
Published: December 2012

Dairy industry wastewater is characterized by high biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and other pollution load. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the operating parameters such as applied voltage, number of electrodes, and reaction time on a real dairy wastewater in the electrocoagulation process. For this purpose, aluminum electrodes were used in the presence of potassium chloride as electrolytes. It has been shown that the removal efficiency of COD, BOD5, and TSS increased with increasing the applied voltage and the reaction time. The results indicate that electrocoagulation is efficient and able to achieve 98.84% COD removal, 97.95% BOD5 removal, 97.75% TSS removal, and >99.9% bacterial indicators at 60 V during 60 min. The experiments demonstrated the effectiveness of electrocoagulation techniques for the treatment of dairy wastewaters. Finally, the results demonstrated the technical feasibility of electrocoagulation process using aluminum electrodes as a reliable technique for removal of pollutants from dairy wastewaters.
Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Effect of Aqueous Extract of Germinated and Fermented Mung Bean on Ethanol-Mediated Liver Damage
Authors: Mohd Ali Norlaily , Mohd Yusof Hamidah , Long Kamariah , Yeap Swee Keong , Ho Wan Yong , Beh Boon Kee , Koh Soo Peng , Abdullah Mohd Puad , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu
Published: December 2012

Mung bean is a hepatoprotective agent in dietary supplements. Fermentation and germination processes are well recognized to enhance the nutritional values especially the concentration of active compounds such as amino acids and GABA of various foods. In this study, antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of freeze-dried mung bean and amino-acid- and GABA-enriched germinated and fermented mung bean aqueous extracts were compared. Liver superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide (NO) levels, and serum biochemical profile such as aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), triglycerides (TG), and cholesterol and histopathological changes were examined for the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of these treatments. Germinated and fermented mung bean have recorded an increase of 27.9 and 7.3 times of GABA and 8.7 and 13.2 times of amino acid improvement, respectively, as compared to normal mung bean. Besides, improvement of antioxidant levels, serum markers, and NO level associated with better histopathological evaluation indicated that these extracts could promote effective recovery from hepatocyte damage. These results suggested that freeze-dried, germinated, and fermented mung bean aqueous extracts enriched with amino acids and GABA possessed better hepatoprotective effect as compared to normal mung bean.
Biochemical Characterization, Action on Macrophages, and Superoxide Anion Production of Four Basic Phospholipases A2from PanamanianBothrops asperSnake Venom
Authors: Rueda Aristides Quintero , Rodríguez Isela González , Arantes Eliane C. , Setúbal Sulamita S. , Calderon Leonardo de A. , Zuliani Juliana P. , Stábeli Rodrigo G. , Soares Andreimar M.
Published: December 2012

Bothrops asper(Squamata: Viperidae) is the most important venomous snake in Central America, being responsible for the majority of snakebite accidents. Four basic PLA2s (pMTX-I to -IV) were purified from crude venom by a single-step chromatography using a CM-Sepharose ion-exchange column (1.5 × 15 cm). Analysis of the N-terminal sequence demonstrated that pMTX-I and III belong to the catalytically active Asp49 phospholipase A2subclass, whereas pMTX-II and IV belong to the enzymatically inactive Lys49 PLA2s-like subclass. The PLA2s isolated from PanamaBothrops aspervenom (pMTX-I, II, III, and IV) are able to induce myotoxic activity, inflammatory reaction mainly leukocyte migration to the muscle, and induce J774A.1 macrophages activation to start phagocytic activity and superoxide production.