bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of elevated O3 on microbes in the rhizosphere of mycorrhizal snap bean with different O3 sensitivity
Authors: Wang Shuguang , Wang Fei , Diao Xiaojun , He Liansheng
Published: December 2013

Elevated ozone (O3) generally affects microbial biomass and community structure in rhizosphere, but these effects are unclear in mycorrhizal plants because arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi often benefit microbial growth in the rhizosphere. Here, we investigate the effects of elevated O3 on microbial biomass and community structure in the rhizosphere of mycorrhizal snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with different O3 sensitivity (R123: O3-tolerant plant; S156: O3-sensitive plant) based on the phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) method. Compared with ambient O3, elevated O3 significantly decreased mycorrhizal colonization rates in the 2 genotypes, especially in S156 plants. The wet masses of shoot and root were decreased by elevated O3 in the 2 genotypes independent of AM inoculation, but they were higher in the mycorrhizal plant than in the nonmycorrhizal plant independent of O3 concentration. Elevated O3 significantly decreased the relative proportion of specific fungal PLFAs in the nonmycorrhizal plant, but this effect disappeared in the mycorrhizal plant. The relative proportions of specific PLFAs of other microbial groups (Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and actinomycete) in the rhizosphere and all specific PLFAs in the hyphosphere were not affected by elevated O3 independent of AM inoculation. In the rhizosphere of the 2 genotypes, microbial community structure was changed by AM inoculation and elevated O3 as well as by their interaction; in the hyphosphere, however, microbial community structure was changed by elevated O3 only in R123 plants. It is concluded that AM inoculation can offset negative effect of elevated O3 on fungal biomass but seems to enhance shift of microbial community structure in rhizosphere under elevated O3.
REMARKS ON GENERALIZED UNCERTAINTY PRINCIPLE INDUCED FROM CONSTRAINT SYSTEM
Authors: EUNE MYUNGSEOK , KIM WONTAE
Published: December 2013

The extended commutation relations for generalized uncertainty principle (GUP) have been based on the assumption of the minimal length in position. Instead of this assumption, we start with a constrained Hamiltonian system described by the conventional Poisson algebra and then impose appropriate second class constraints to this system. Consequently, we can show that the consistent Dirac brackets for this system are nothing, but the extended commutation relations describing the GUP.
LOCAL STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY WITH JUMPS: ANALYTICAL APPROXIMATIONS
Authors: PAGLIARANI STEFANO , PASCUCCI ANDREA
Published: December 2013

We present new approximation formulas for local stochastic volatility models, possibly including Lévy jumps. Our main result is an expansion of the characteristic function, which is worked out in the Fourier space. Combined with standard Fourier methods, our result provides efficient and accurate formulas for the prices and the Greeks of plain vanilla options. We finally provide numerical results to illustrate the accuracy with real market data.
Affine coxeter group Wa(A4), quaternions, and decagonal quasicrystals
Authors: Koca Mehmet , Koca Nazife Ozdes , Koc Ramazan
Published: December 2013

We introduce a technique of projection onto the Coxeter plane of an arbitrary higher-dimensional lattice described by the affine Coxeter group. The Coxeter plane is determined by the simple roots of the Coxeter graph I2(h) where h is the Coxeter number of the Coxeter group W(G) which embeds the dihedral group Dh of order 2h as a maximal subgroup. As a simple application, we demonstrate projections of the root and weight lattices of A4 onto the Coxeter plane using the strip (canonical) projection method. We show that the crystal spaces of the affine Wa(A4) can be decomposed into two orthogonal spaces whose point group is the dihedral group D5 which acts in both spaces faithfully. The strip projections of the root and weight lattices can be taken as models for the decagonal quasicrystals. The paper also revises the quaternionic descriptions of the root and weight lattices, described by the affine Coxeter group Wa(A3), which correspond to the face centered cubic (fcc) lattice and body centered cubic (bcc) lattice respectively. Extensions of these lattices to higher dimensions lead to the root and weight lattices of the group Wa(An), n ≥ 4. We also note that the projection of the Voronoi cell of the root lattice of Wa(A4) describes a framework of nested decagram growing with the power of the golden ratio recently discovered in the Islamic arts.
Drug discrimination of Near Infrared spectroscopy based on the scaled convex hull classifier
Authors: Liu Zhenbing , Jiang Shujie , Yang Huihua
Published: December 2013

Near Infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has been widely used in the discrimination (classification) of pharmaceutical drugs. In real applications, however, the class imbalance of the drug samples, i.e., the number of one drug sample may be much larger than the number of the other drugs, deceases drastically the discrimination performance of the classification models. To address this class imbalance problem, a new computational method — the scaled convex hull (SCH)-based maximum margin classifier is proposed in this paper. By a suitable selection of the reduction factor of the SCHs generated by the two classes of drug samples, respectively, the maximal margin classifier between SCHs can be constructed which can obtain good classification performance. With an optimization of the parameters involved in the modeling by Cuckoo Search, a satisfied model is achieved for the classification of the drug. The experiments on spectra samples produced by a pharmaceutical company show that the proposed method is more effective and robust than the existing ones.
INITIAL COEFFICIENT BOUNDS FOR CERTAIN CLASSES OF MEROMORPHIC BI-UNIVALENT FUNCTIONS
Authors: Orhan H. , Magesh N. , Balaji V. K.
Published: December 2013

In 2010, Srivastava et al. [Certain subclasses of analytic and bi-univalent functions, Appl. Math. Lett.23(10) (2010) 1188–1192] reviewed the study of coefficient problems for bi-univalent functions. Inspired by the pioneering work of Srivastava et al. [Certain subclasses of analytic and bi-univalent functions, Appl. Math. Lett.23(10) (2010) 1188–1192], there has been triggering interest to study the coefficient problems for the different subclasses of bi-univalent functions. Motivated largely by Srivastava et al. [Certain subclasses of analytic and bi-univalent functions, Appl. Math. Lett.23(10) (2010) 1188–1192] and Halim et al. [Coefficient estimates for meromorphic bi-univalent functions, preprint (2011), arXiv:1108.4089], in this paper, we propose to investigate the coefficient estimates for two classes of meromorphic bi-univalent functions. Also, we find estimates on the coefficients |b0| and |b1| for functions in these new classes. Some interesting remarks of the results presented here are also discussed.
Superior performance of nanoscaled Fe3O4 as anode material promoted by mosaicking into porous carbon framework
Authors: Wan Wang , Wang Chao , Zhang Weidong , Chen Jitao , Zhou Henghui , Zhang Xinxiang
Published: December 2013

A nanoscale Fe 3 O 4/porous carbon-multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) composite is synthesized through a simple hard-template method by using Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles as the precursor and SiO 2 nanoparticles as the template. The composite shows good cycle performance (941 mAh g-1 for the first cycle at 0.1 C, with 106% capacity retention at the 80th cycle) and high rate capability (71% capacity retained at 5 C rate). Its excellent electrical properties can be attributed to the porous carbon framework structure, which is composed of carbon and MWCNTs. In this composite, the porous structure provides space for the change in Fe 3 O 4 volume during cycling and shortens the lithium ion diffusion distance, the MWCNTs increase the electron conductivity, and the carbon coating reduces the risk of side reactions. The results provide clear evidences for the utility of porous carbon framework to improve the electrochemical performances of nanosized transition-metal oxides as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries.
Self-templating synthesis of single crystalline LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 nanotubes with improved electrochemical performance
Authors: Wang Guoqing , Xie Jian , Zhu Tiejun , Cao Gaoshao , Zhao Xinbing , Zhang Shichao
Published: December 2013

Single crystalline lithium nickel manganese oxide ( LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4) nanotubes have been prepared by a facile self-templating method from β- MnO 2 nanotubes. The wall thickness and hollow part of the nanotubes are around 250 nm and 200 nm, respectively. The tubular LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 exhibits good rate capability and high-rate cycling stability. At 10 C, it can yield a high discharge capacity of 99 mAh g-1. After 550 cycles at 5 C, a discharge capacity of 85 mAh g-1 can be kept, indicating a promising application in high-power Li -ion batteries.
Energy Harvesting with Piezoelectric Element Using Vibroacoustic Coupling Phenomenon
Authors: Moriyama Hiroyuki , Tsuchiya Hirotarou , Oshinoya Yasuo
Published: December 2013

This paper describes the vibroacoustic coupling between the structural vibrations and internal sound fields of thin structures. In this study, a cylindrical structure with thin end plates is subjected to the harmonic point force at one end plate or both end plates, and a natural frequency of the end plates is selected as the forcing frequency. The resulting vibroacoustic coupling is then analyzed theoretically and experimentally by considering the dynamic behavior of the plates and the acoustic characteristics of the internal sound field as a function of the cylinder length. The length and phase difference between the plate vibrations, which maximize the sound pressure level inside the cavity, are clarified theoretically. The theoretical results are validated experimentally through an excitation experiment using an experimental apparatus that emulates the analytical model. Moreover, the electricity generation experiment verifies that sufficient vibroacoustic coupling can be created for the adopted electricity generating system to be effective as an electric energy-harvesting device.
Structural and Electrochemical Investigation of Li1.02Mn1.92Al0.02Fe0.02Cr0.02O4-xFx(x=0, 0.08) Synthesized by Solid-State Method
Authors: Zhang Hai-Lang , Xiang Nanchun
Published: December 2013

To improve the cycle performance of spinel LiMn2O4as the cathode of 4-V-class lithium secondary batteries, spinel phases Li1.02Mn1.92Al0.02Fe0.02Cr0.02O4-xFx(x=0, 0.08) have been successfully prepared by a conventional solid-state method. The structure and physicochemical properties of this as-prepared powder were investigated by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and galvanostatic charge-discharge test in detail. The results reveal that the multiple doping spinel Li1.02Mn1.92Al0.02Fe0.02Cr0.02O4F0.08have better electrochemical performance than the undoped or only metal-element doped material, which may be contributed to the multiple cation and anion doping to lead to a more stable spinel framework with good capacity retention rate.
Tolerance to Cadmium of Agave lechuguilla (Agavaceae) Seeds and Seedlings from Sites Contaminated with Heavy Metals
Authors: Méndez-Hurtado Alejandra , Rangel-Méndez René , Yáñez-Espinosa Laura , Flores Joel
Published: December 2013

We investigated if seeds of Agave lechuguilla from contaminated sites with heavy metals were more tolerant to Cd ions than seeds from noncontaminated sites. Seeds from a highly contaminated site (Villa de la Paz) and from a noncontaminated site (Villa de Zaragoza) were evaluated. We tested the effect of Cd concentrations on several ecophysiological, morphological, genetical, and anatomical responses. Seed viability, seed germination, seedling biomass, and radicle length were higher for the non‐polluted site than for the contaminated one. The leaves of seedlings from the contaminated place had more cadmium and showed peaks attributed to chemical functional groups such as amines, amides, carboxyl, and alkenes that tended to disappear due to increasing the concentration of cadmium than those from Villa de Zaragoza. Malformed cells in the parenchyma surrounding the vascular bundles were found in seedlings grown with Cd from both sites. The leaves from the contaminated place showed a higher metallothioneins expression in seedlings from the control group than that of seedlings at different Cd concentrations. Most of our results fitted into the hypothesis that plants from metal‐contaminated places do not tolerate more pollution, because of the accumulative effect that cadmium might have on them.
Operational Risk Assessment of Distribution Network Equipment Based on Rough Set and D-S Evidence Theory
Authors: Li Cunbin , Qing Gefu , Li Peng , Yin Tingting
Published: December 2013

With the increasing complication, compaction, and automation of distribution network equipment, a small failure will cause an outbreak chain reaction and lead to operational risk in the power distribution system, even in the whole power system. Therefore, scientific assessment of power distribution equipment operation risk is significant to the security of power distribution system. In order to get the satisfactory assessment conclusions from the complete and incomplete information and improve the assessment level, an operational risk assessment model of distribution network equipment based on rough set and D-S evidence theory was built. In this model, the rough set theory was used to simplify and optimize the operation risk assessment indexes of distribution network equipment and the evidence D-S theory was adopted to combine the optimal indexes. At last, the equipment operational risk level was obtained from the basic probability distribution decision. Taking the transformer as an example, this paper compared the assessment result obtained from the method proposed in this paper with that from the ordinary Rogers ratio method and discussed the application of the proposed method. It proved that the method proposed in this paper is feasible, efficient, and provides a new way to assess the distribution network equipment operational risk.
Serum N‐Glycan Profiling Predicts Prognosis in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Hatakeyama Shingo , Amano Maho , Tobisawa Yuki , Yoneyama Tohru , Tsushima Megumi , Hirose Kazuko , Yoneyama Takahiro , Hashimoto Yasuhiro , Koie Takuya , Saitoh Hisao , Yamaya Kanemitsu , Funyu Tomihisa , Nishimura Shin-Ichiro , Ohyama Chikara
Published: December 2013

Background. The aim of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of serum N‐glycan profiling for prognosis in hemodialysis patients. Methods. Serum N‐glycan analysis was performed in 100 hemodialysis patients in June 2008 using the glycoblotting method, which allows high‐throughput, comprehensive, and quantitative N‐glycan analysis. All patients were longitudinally followed up for 5 years. To evaluate the independent predictors for prognosis, patients′ background, blood biochemistry, and N‐glycans intensity were analyzed using Cox regression multivariate analysis. Selected N‐glycans and independent factors were evaluated using the log‐rank test with the Kaplan‐Meier method to identify the predictive indicators for prognosis. Each patient was categorized according to the number of risk factors to evaluate the predictive potential of the risk criteria for prognosis. Results. In total, 56 N‐glycan types were identified in the hemodialysis patients. Cox regression multivariate analysis showed cardiovascular events, body mass index, maximum intima media thickness, and the serum N‐glycan intensity of peak number 49 were predictive indicators for overall survival. Risk classification according to the number of independent risk factors revealed significantly poor survival by increasing the number of risk factors. Conclusions. Serum N‐glycan profiling may have a potential to predict prognosis in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Nonviral Gene Delivery of Growth and Differentiation Factor 5 to Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Injected into a 3D Bovine Intervertebral Disc Organ Culture System
Authors: Bucher Christian , Gazdhar Amiq , Benneker Lorin M. , Geiser Thomas , Gantenbein-Ritter Benjamin
Published: December 2013

Intervertebral disc (IVD) cell therapy with unconditioned 2D expanded mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) is a promising concept yet challenging to realize. Differentiation of MSCs by nonviral gene delivery of growth and differentiation factor 5 (GDF5) by electroporation mediated gene transfer could be an excellent source for cell transplantation. Human MSCs were harvested from bone marrow aspirate and GDF5 gene transfer was achieved byin vitroelectroporation. Transfected cells were cultured as monolayers and as 3D cultures in 1.2% alginate bead culture. MSC expressed GDF5 efficiently for up to 21 days. The combination of GDF5 gene transfer and 3D culture in alginate showed an upregulation of aggrecan and SOX9, two markers for chondrogenesis, and KRT19 as a marker for discogenesis compared to untransfected cells. The cells encapsulated in alginate produced more proteoglycans expressed in GAG/DNA ratio. Furthermore, GDF5 transfected MCS injected into an IVD papain degeneration organ culture model showed a partial recovery of the GAG/DNA ratio after 7 days. In this study we demonstrate the potential of GDF5 transfected MSC as a promising approach for clinical translation for disc regeneration.
Evaluating Symptoms to Improve Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Stable Angina
Authors: Young Jeffrey W. , Melander Sheila
Published: December 2013

Chronic stable angina (CSA) is a significant problem in the United States that can negatively impact patient quality of life (QoL). An accurate assessment of the severity of a patient’s angina, the impact on their functional status, and their risk of cardiovascular complications is key to successful treatment of CSA. Active communication between the patient and their healthcare provider is necessary to ensure that patients receive optimal therapy. Healthcare providers should be aware of atypical symptoms of CSA in their patients, as patients may continue to suffer from angina despite the availability of multiple therapies. Patient questionnaires and symptom checklists can help patients communicate proactively with their healthcare providers. This paper discusses the prevalence of CSA, its impact on QoL, and the tools that healthcare providers can use to assess the severity of their patients’ angina and the impact on QoL.
An Uncommon Plant Growth Regulator, Diethyl Aminoethyl Hexanoate, Is Highly Effective in Tissue Cultures of the Important Medicinal Plant Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpureaL.)
Authors: Chen Xiao-Lu , Zhang Jun-Jie , Chen Rong , Li Qing-Ling , Yang Yue-Sheng , Wu Hong
Published: December 2013

We investigated the effects of various concentrations of diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate (DA-6) on the regeneration and growth of adventitious buds inin vitropurple coneflower cultures. Among the 3 types of explants tested, leaf explants required higher concentrations of DA-6 than petiole and root explants in order to obtain high regeneration rates, while root explants required the lowest concentration of DA-6. Additionally, explants with higher ploidy levels were more sensitive to the addition of DA-6, while explants with lower ploidy levels required higher concentrations of DA-6 to achieve its maximal regeneration rate. Interestingly, the application of a concentration that was conducive to the regeneration of explants with lower ploidy levels was inhibitory to the regeneration of explants with higher ploidy levels. Moreover, during the growth of regenerated buds, DA-6 application significantly improved plant height and weight, root weight, root thickness, root number, primary root length, total root length, and root/top ratio. Differences in the responses of explants to supplementation with DA-6 were also observed among explants with different ploidy levels, with buds having lower ploidy levels responding to lower concentrations of DA-6. Taken together, the results of the present experiments showed that proper application of DA-6 could increasein vitroculture efficiency in purple coneflower.
The Largest Laplacian Spectral Radius of Unicyclic Graphs with Fixed Diameter
Authors: Zhang Haixia
Published: December 2013

We identify graphs with the maximal Laplacian spectral radius among all unicyclic graphs withnvertices and diameterd.
Genetic Variants of Neurotransmitter‐Related Genes and miRNAs in Egyptian Autistic Patients
Authors: Salem Ahmed M. , Ismail Samira , Zarouk Waheba A. , Abdul Baky Olwya , Sayed Ahmed A. , Abd El-Hamid Sawsan , Salem Sohair
Published: December 2013

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with indisputable evidence for a genetic component. This work studied the association of autism with genetic variations in neurotransmitter‐related genes, including MAOA uVNTR, MAOB rs1799836, and DRD2 TaqI A in 53 autistic patients and 30 healthy individuals. The study also analyzed sequence variations of miR-431 and miR-21. MAOA uVNTR was genotyped by PCR, MAOB and DRD2 polymorphisms were analyzed by PCR‐based RFLP, and miR-431 and miR-21 were sequenced. Low expressing allele of MAOA uVNTR was frequently higher in female patients compared to that in controls (OR = 2.25). MAOB G allele frequency was more significantly increased in autistic patients than in controls (P < 0.001 for both males and females). DRD2 A1+ genotype increased autism risk (OR = 5.1). Severity of autism tends to be slightly affected by MAOA/B genotype. Plasma MAOB activity was significantly reduced in G than in A allele carrying males. There was no significant difference in patients and maternal plasma MAOA/B activity compared to controls. Neither mutations nor SNPs in miR-431 and miR-21 were found among studied patients. This study threw light on some neurotransmitter‐related genes suggesting their potential role in Autism pathogenesis that warrants further studies and much consideration.
Moringa oleiferaMitigates Memory Impairment and Neurodegeneration in Animal Model of Age-Related Dementia
Authors: Sutalangka Chatchada , Wattanathorn Jintanaporn , Muchimapura Supaporn , Thukham-mee Wipawee
Published: December 2013

To date, the preventive strategy against dementia is still essential due to the rapid growth of its prevalence and the limited therapeutic efficacy. Based on the crucial role of oxidative stress in age-related dementia and the antioxidant and nootropic activities ofMoringa oleifera, the enhancement of spatial memory and neuroprotection ofM. oleiferaleaves extract in animal model of age-related dementia was determined. The possible underlying mechanism was also investigated. Male Wistar rats, weighing 180–220 g, were orally givenM. oleiferaleaves extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg at a period of 7 days before and 7 days after the intracerebroventricular administration of AF64A bilaterally. Then, they were assessed memory, neuron density, MDA level, and the activities of SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and AChE in hippocampus. The results showed that the extract improved spatial memory and neurodegeneration in CA1, CA2, CA3, and dentate gyrus of hippocampus together with the decreased MDA level and AChE activity but increased SOD and CAT activities. Therefore, our data suggest thatM. oleiferaleaves extract is the potential cognitive enhancer and neuroprotectant. The possible mechanism might occur partly via the decreased oxidative stress and the enhanced cholinergic function. However, further explorations concerning active ingredient(s) are still required.
Adaptive Kalman Estimation in Target Tracking Mixed with Random One-Step Delays, Stochastic-Bias Measurements, and Missing Measurements
Authors: Chen Sujuan , Li Yinya , Qi Guoqing , Sheng Andong
Published: December 2013

The objective of this paper is concerned with the estimation problem for linear discrete-time stochastic systems with mixed uncertainties involving random one-step sensor delay, stochastic-bias measurements, and missing measurements. Three Bernoulli distributed random variables are employed to describe the uncertainties. All the three uncertainties in the measurement have certain probability of occurrence in the target tracking system. And then, an adaptive Kalman estimation is proposed to deal with this problem. The adaptive filter gains can be obtained in terms of solutions to a set of recursive discrete-time Riccati equations. Examples in three scenarios of target tracking are exploited to show the effectiveness of the proposed design approach.
Influence of Image Acquisition on Radiation Dose and Image Quality: Full versus Narrow Phase Window Acquisition Using 320 MDCT
Authors: Khosa Faisal , Khan Atif , Nasir Khurram , Shuaib Waqas , Budoff Matthew , Blankstein Ron , Clouse Melvin E.
Published: December 2013

Purpose. To compare radiation dose and image quality using predefined narrow phase window versus complete phase window with dose modulation during R‐R using 320‐row MDCTA. Methods. 114 patients underwent coronary CTA study using 320‐row MDCT scanner. 87 patients with mean age (61 + 13 years), mean BMI (29 + 6), and mean heart rate (HR) (58 + 7 bpm) were imaged at predefined 66–80% R‐R interval and then reconstructed at 75% while 27 patients with mean age (63 + 16 years), mean BMI (28 + 5), and mean HR (57 + 7 bpm) were scanned throughout the complete R‐R interval with tube current modulation. The effective dose (ED) was calculated from dose length product (DLP) and conversion k (0.014 mSv/mGy/cm). Image quality was assessed using a three‐point ordinal scale (1 = excellent, 2 = good, and 3 = nondiagnostic). Results. Both groups were statistically similar to each other with reference of HR (P = 0.59), BMI (P = 0.17), and tube current mAs (P = 0.68). The median radiation dose was significantly higher in those scanned with complete R‐R phase window versus narrow phase window (P < 0.0001). Independently of patient and scan parameters, increased phase window was associated with higher radiation dose (P < 0.001). Image quality was better among those scanned with narrow phase window versus complete phase window (P < 0.0001). Conclusion. Our study supports that good HR control and predefined narrow window acquisition result in lower radiation dose without compromising diagnostic image quality for coronary disease evaluation.
Study on the Dynamics of Laser Gyro Strapdown Inertial Measurement Unit System Based on Transfer Matrix Method for Multibody System
Authors: Chen Gangli , Rui Xiaoting , Yang Fufeng , Zhang Jianshu , Zhou Qinbo
Published: December 2013

The dynamic test precision of the strapdown inertial measurement unit (SIMU) is the basis of estimating accurate motion of various vehicles such as warships, airplanes, spacecrafts, and missiles. So, it is paid great attention in the above fields to increase the dynamic precision of SIMU by decreasing the vibration of the vehicles acting on the SIMU. In this paper, based on the transfer matrix method for multibody system (MSTMM), the multibody system dynamics model of laser gyro strapdown inertial measurement unit (LGSIMU) is developed; the overall transfer equation of the system is deduced automatically. The computational results show that the frequency response function of the LGSIMU got by the proposed method and Newton-Euler method have good agreements. Further, the vibration reduction performance and the attitude error responses under harmonic and random excitations are analyzed. The proposed method provides a powerful technique for studying dynamics of LGSIMU because of using MSTMM and its following features: without the global dynamics equations of the system, high programming, low order of system matrix, and high computational speed.
Stochastic Extinction in an SIRS Epidemic Model Incorporating Media Coverage
Authors: Wang Liyan , Huang Huilin , Xu Ancha , Wang Weiming
Published: December 2013

We extend the classical SIRS epidemic model incorporating media coverage from a deterministic framework to a stochastic differential equation (SDE) and focus on how environmental fluctuations of the contact coefficient affect the extinction of the disease. We give the conditions of existence of unique positive solution and the stochastic extinction of the SDE model and discuss the exponentialp-stability and global stability of the SDE model. One of the most interesting findings is that if the intensity of noise is large, then the disease is prone to extinction, which can provide us with some useful control strategies to regulate disease dynamics.
Costs Associated with Intravenous Cancer Therapy Administration in Patients with Metastatic Soft Tissue Sarcoma in a US Population
Authors: Duh Mei Sheng , Hackshaw Michelle D. , Ivanova Jasmina I. , Kruse Gregory , Miller Lesley-Ann N. , Lefebvre Patrick , Karner Paul , Wong Bruce
Published: December 2013

Background. The most common chemotherapies in metastatic soft tissue sarcoma (mSTS) require intravenous (IV) administration. This often requires patients to make multiple outpatient visits per chemotherapy cycle, possibly impeding patients’ daily activities and increasing caregiver burden and medical costs. This study investigated costs associated with IV cancer therapy administration in mSTS from the payer perspective of the health care system.Patients and Methods. From the Experian Healthcare database, 1,228 mSTS patients were selected. Data were analyzed on outpatient visits during 2005–2012 involving IV cancer therapy administration. Costs were estimated on a per patient per visit (PPPV) and per patient per month (PPPM) basis.Results. The mean (median) cost of IV therapy was $2,427 ($1,532) PPPV and $5,468 ($4,310) PPPM, of which approximately 60% was IV drug costs. IV administration costs averaged $399 PPPV and $900 PPPM, representing 16.5% of total visit costs. Anthracycline and alkylating-agents-based therapies had the highest PPPV and PPPM IV administration costs, respectively (mean $479 and $1,336, resp.). Patients with managed care insurance had the highest IV administration costs (mean $504 PPPV; $1,120 PPPM).Conclusions. IV administration costs constitute a considerable proportion of the total costs of receiving an IV cancer therapy to treat mSTS.
The Similar Structure Method for Solving the Model of Fractal Dual-Porosity Reservoir
Authors: Xu Li , Liu Xiangjun , Liang Lixi , Li Shunchu , Zhou Longtao
Published: December 2013

This paper proposes a similar structure method (SSM) to solve the boundary value problem of the extended modified Bessel equation. The method could efficiently solve a second-order linear homogeneous differential equation’s boundary value problem and obtain its solutions’ similar structure. A mathematics model is set up on the dual-porosity media, in which the influence of fractal dimension, spherical flow, wellbore storage, and skin factor is taken into cosideration. Researches in the model found that it was a special type of the extended modified Bessel equation in Laplace space. Then, the formation pressure and wellbore pressure under three types of outer boundaries (infinite, constant pressure, and closed) are obtained via SSM in Laplace space. Combining SSM with the Stehfest algorithm, we propose the similar structure method algorithm (SSMA) which can be used to calculate wellbore pressure and pressure derivative of reservoir seepage models clearly. Type curves of fractal dual-porosity spherical flow are plotted by SSMA. The presented algorithm promotes the development of well test analysis software.
Health Promoting Effects of Brassica-Derived Phytochemicals: From Chemopreventive and Anti-Inflammatory Activities to Epigenetic Regulation
Authors: Wagner Anika Eva , Terschluesen Anna Maria , Rimbach Gerald
Published: December 2013

A high intake of brassica vegetables may be associated with a decreased chronic disease risk. Health promoting effects of Brassicaceae have been partly attributed to glucosinolates and in particular to their hydrolyzation products including isothiocyanates.In vitroandin vivostudies suggest a chemopreventive activity of isothiocyanates through the redox-sensitive transcription factor Nrf2. Furthermore, studies in cultured cells, in laboratory rodents, and also in humans support an anti-inflammatory effect of brassica-derived phytochemicals. However, the underlying mechanisms of how these compounds mediate their health promoting effects are yet not fully understood. Recent findings suggest that brassica-derived compounds are regulators of epigenetic mechanisms. It has been shown that isothiocyanates may inhibit histone deacetylase transferases and DNA-methyltransferases in cultured cells. Only a few papers have dealt with the effect of brassica-derived compounds on epigenetic mechanisms in laboratory animals, whereas data in humans are currently lacking. The present review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the biological activities of brassica-derived phytochemicals regarding chemopreventive, anti-inflammatory, and epigenetic pathways.
Redescription and lectotype designation of the endemic South African mayfly Lestagella penicillata (Barnard, 1932) (Ephemeroptera: Teloganodidae)
Authors: PEREIRA-DA-CONCEICOA LYNDALL L. , BARBER-JAMES HELEN M.
Published: December 2013

The imago and nymph of Lestagella penicillata are redescribed based on historic specimens and new material from Table Mountain slopes (Skeleton Gorge and Window Stream), Western Cape, South Africa. A male from Barnard’s syntype series is designated as the lectotype. Wear-and-tear of mouthparts, particularly the mandibles, has led to errors in identification of diagnostic characters for the nymphs in earlier publications. Previous descriptions of the mandibles being atrophied, in terms of dentition, are erroneous. The generic diagnosis of Lestagella is modified to account for these errors and intraspecific variability. Adults are distinguished from other Teloganodidae by the combination of a short, detached iMP vein on the forewing, three caudal filaments and gill socket vestiges on segments II - IV. Nymphs are distinguished from other Teloganodidae by a conspicuous head fringe, lamellate gills on abdominal segments II–IV and a dorso-ventrally flattened body.
A case for integrity: gains from including more than animal welfare in animal ethics committee deliberations
Authors: Röcklinsberg H , Gamborg C , Gjerris M
Published: December 2013

From January 2013, a new EU Directive 63/2010/EU requires that research using animals must undergo a harm–benefit analysis, which takes ethical considerations into account (Art. 38 (2) d) – a so-called ‘project authorization’ (Art. 36). A competent authority in each member state has to ensure that no project is carried out without such a project validation process, but often delegates the actual assessment to an animal ethics committee (AEC) or its equivalent. The core task of the AEC is to formulate a justifiable balance between the animals' suffering caused by research and the potential human benefit. AECs traditionally focus on animal welfare issues, but according to the new directive other public concerns must also be taken into account. Taking the new EU Directive as a point of departure, the central aim of this paper is to discuss the evaluation process in relation to animal welfare and animal ethics through the concept of animal integrity. A further aim is to elaborate on possible improvements to project evaluation by considering animal integrity. We argue that concepts like animal integrity are often left out of project authorization processes within AECs, because animal ethics is often interpreted narrowly to include only certain aspects of animal welfare. Firstly, we describe the task of an AEC and discuss what has typically been regarded as ethically relevant in the assessment process. Secondly, we categorize four notions of integrity found in the literature to show the complexity of the concept and furthermore to indicate its strengths. Thirdly, we discuss how certain interpretations of integrity can be included in AEC assessments to encapsulate wider ethical concerns and, perhaps even increase the democratic legitimacy of AECs.
Teleoperation and Beyond for Assistive Humanoid Robots
Authors: Goodrich Michael A. , Crandall Jacob W. , Barakova Emilia
Published: December 2013

In this review, we explore how teleoperation could potentially be applied to the management of humanoid robots, with an emphasis on humanoid robots that are used in assistive roles, including clinical therapies. Since there are very few examples of the remote operation of a full humanoid, the review emphasizes technologies that are potentially relevant to teleoperation of humanoids. Teleoperation of humanoid robots faces many of the same practical challenges associated with (a) traditional teleoperation, including latency and telepresence, and (b) teleoperating manipulators and other robots with high degrees of freedom. Teleoperation systems for humanoid robots must also address unique challenges triggered by strong emotional and social responses to humanoids—responses of both the operator and any humans who may interact with the humanoid. These challenges trigger new opportunities for redefining teleoperation to include scripting, programming by demonstration, speech production, and Wizard of Oz interaction. The challenges also provide opportunities to specialize existing modes of interaction and unique opportunities to develop humanoid-specific forms of teleoperation, such as controlling humanoids via exoskeleton-based or inertial sensors. We include in this review a survey of enabling technologies, a taxonomy of practical uses, and a list of emerging themes and approaches to teleoperating humanoid robots.
Brain Drain: Case-Study Simulation on Crisis Management
Authors: Waheed Ajmal , Rehman Rana Rashid
Published: December 2013

This case provides background information on ABC Corporation and a practical approach for considering the crucial elements in any management dilemma and a means for creating a sensible strategy for addressing the problems. This exercise raises issues concerning motivation, commitment, communication, decision-making, conflict management and team/organizational development. In addition, this also stimulates course discussion on a range of topics dealing with management, leadership, change and small group dynamics, that is, relationship between team members and between subordinates and boss.
HTC Corporation: A Different Kind of Leadership of Cher Wang
Authors: Bhatt P.R.
Published: December 2013

HTC corporation was started as a manufacturer of personal digital assistants (PDAs) in 1997 and later shifted to manufacturing smartphones for branded handset companies and for service providers such as T-Mobile, Vodafone, Orange, Sprint, Cingular, Verizon and NTT DoCoMo as an original design manufactures (ODMs) in 2002. In 2007, HTC had taken a strategic decision to manufacture branded products and sold smartphones under its own name. The main competitors of HTC in smartphone industry were Apple, Samsung, Research in Motion (RIM), Nokia and Huawei. HTC took a number of distinct paths to drive differentiation of its products which included a superb User Interface (UI) and applications (for e-mailing, screen locking, dialing and picture taking among others) that provided a unique experience to HTC users. Cher Wang believed that the key to creating a powerful brand was to produce cutting-edge smartphones. Cher Wang introduced a new culture, a culture of innovation in the organization. Her vision was to create innovative products that could enrich consumers’ lives. Cher Wang wanted to make HTC global organization to make convergence of internet, mobile, wireless and IT. HTC’s long-term plan was to distinguish itself in the handsets and tablets markets by offering an HTC-specific experience on both Android and Windows phones.
The nucleosome regulates the usage of polyadenylation sites in the human genome
Authors: Huang Huan , Chen Jiao , Liu Hongde , Sun Xiao
Published: December 2013

Background

It has been reported that 3' end processing is coupled to transcription and nucleosome depletion near the polyadenylation sites in many species. However, the association between nucleosome occupancy and polyadenylation site usage is still unclear.

Results

By systematic analysis of high-throughput sequencing datasets from the human genome, we found that nucleosome occupancy patterns are different around the polyadenylation sites, and that the patterns associate with both transcription termination and recognition of polyadenylation sites. Upstream of proximal polyadenylation sites, RNA polymerase II accumulated and nucleosomes were better positioned compared with downstream of the sites. Highly used proximal polyadenylation sites had higher upstream nucleosome levels and RNA polymerase II accumulation than lowly used sites. This suggests that nucleosomes positioned upstream of proximal sites function in the recognition of proximal polyadenylation sites and in the preparation for 3' end processing by slowing down transcription speed. Both conserved distal polyadenylation sites and constitutive sites showed stronger nucleosome depletion near polyadenylation sites and had intrinsically better positioned downstream nucleosomes. Finally, there was a higher accumulation of RNA polymerase II downstream of the polyadenylation sites, to guarantee gene transcription termination and recognition of the last polyadenylation sites, if previous sites were missed.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that nucleosome arrays play different roles in the regulation of the usage of polyadenylation sites and transcription termination of protein-coding genes, and form a dual pausing model of RNA polymerase II in the alternative polyadenylation sites’ region, to ensure effective 3' end processing.
Interactions between ethylene and auxin are crucial to the control of grape (Vitis vinifera L.) berry ripening
Authors: Böttcher Christine , Burbidge Crista A , Boss Paul K , Davies Christopher
Published: December 2013

Background

Fruit development is controlled by plant hormones, but the role of hormone interactions during fruit ripening is poorly understood. Interactions between ethylene and the auxin indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) are likely to be crucial during the ripening process, since both hormones have been shown to be implicated in the control of ripening in a range of different fruit species.

Results

Grapevine (Vitis viniferaL.) homologues of the TRYPTOPHAN AMINOTRANSFERASE RELATED (TAR) and YUCCA families, functioning in the only characterized pathway of auxin biosynthesis, were identified and the expression of severalTARgenes was shown to be induced by the pre-ripening application of the ethylene-releasing compound Ethrel. The induction ofTARexpression was accompanied by increased IAA and IAA-Asp concentrations, indicative of an upregulation of auxin biosynthesis and conjugation. Exposure ofex planta,pre-ripening berries to the ethylene biosynthesis inhibitor aminoethoxyvinylglycine resulted in decreased IAA and IAA-Asp concentrations. The delayed initiation of ripening observed in Ethrel-treated berries might therefore represent an indirect ethylene effect mediated by increased auxin concentrations. During berry development, the expression of threeTARgenes and oneYUCCAgene was upregulated at the time of ripening initiation and/or during ripening. This increase in auxin biosynthesis gene expression was preceded by high expression levels of the ethylene biosynthesis genes 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate oxidase.

Conclusions

In grape berries, members of both gene families involved in the two-step pathway of auxin biosynthesis are expressed, suggesting that IAA is produced through the combined action of TAR and YUCCA proteins in developing berries. The induction ofTARexpression by Ethrel applications and the developmental expression patterns of auxin and ethylene biosynthesis genes indicate that elevated concentrations of ethylene prior to the initiation of ripening might lead to an increased production of IAA, suggesting a complex involvement of this auxin and its conjugates in grape berry ripening.
Statistical validation of wavelet transform coherence method to assess the transfer of calf muscle activation to blood pressure during quiet standing
Authors: Garg Amanmeet , Xu Da , Blaber Andrew P
Published: December 2013

Background

Continuous and discrete wavelet transforms have been established as valid tools to analyze non-stationary and transient signals over Fourier domain methods. Additionally, Fourier transform based coherence methods provide aggregate results but do not provide insights into the changes in coherent behavior over time, hence limiting their utility.

Methods

Statistical validation of the wavelet transform coherence (WTC) was conducted with simulated data sets. Time frequency maps of signal coherence between calf muscle electromyography (EMG) and blood pressure (BP) were obtained by WTC to provide further insight into their interdependent time-varying behavior via the skeletal muscle pump during quiet stance. Data were collected from healthy young males (n = 5, 19–28 years) during a quiet stance on a balance platform. Waveforms for EMG and BP were acquired and processed for further analysis.

Results

Low values of bias and standard deviation (< 0.1) were observed and the use of both simulated and real data demonstrated that the WTC method was able to identify time points of significant coherence (> Threshold) and objectively detect existence of interdependent activity between the calf muscle EMG and blood pressure.

Conclusions

The WTC method effectively identified the presence of linear coupling between the EMG and BP signals during quiet standing. Future studies with more human data are needed to establish the exact characteristics of the identified relationship.
The Indian Biennale Effect
Authors: D'Souza Robert E.
Published: December 2013

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale, the most recent global art biennale, was launched in Kochi in the state of Kerala, India, in 2012. This essay considers the “biennale effect,” locating it within India's recent history of radical political modernization and in the context of the state's attempts to establish itself in terms of internationalism and contemporaneity via the arts. Pivotal to this discussion of the biennale effect is the recognition of a growing critical discourse about the biennale format by scholars, critics, and curators. The impact of the Indian biennale on the formerly Communist city of Kochi is also explored, including photographic documentation by the author, in the context of the contradictions and paradoxes raised by India's hosting of this global art event.
Affective Landscapes
Authors: Berberich Christine , Campbell Neil , Hudson Robert
Published: December 2013

This essay examines, in Ben Highmore's words, the implications of “a materialist turn towards the immaterial, towards affect, towards thinglyness, the senses” and how this might be determined by “the social world that produced them.” In viewing the “social,” or “sociocultural,” as always affective, and in viewing the significance of landscape in terms of how people define themselves and their relations to the world, this essay explores affect's key role in countering entrenched, predefined systems of thought and feeling and its potential for, in Jacques Rancière's terms, “redistributing the sensible.”