bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial Enhanced Heavy Oil Recovery by the Aid of Inhabitant Spore-Forming Bacteria: An Insight Review
Authors: Shibulal Biji , Al-Bahry Saif N. , Al-Wahaibi Yahya M. , Elshafie Abdulkader E. , Al-Bemani Ali S. , Joshi Sanket J.
Published: January 2014

Crude oil is the major source of energy worldwide being exploited as a source of economy, including Oman. As the price of crude oil increases and crude oil reserves collapse, exploitation of oil resources in mature reservoirs is essential for meeting future energy demands. As conventional recovery methods currently used have become less efficient for the needs, there is a continuous demand of developing a new technology which helps in the upgradation of heavy crude oil. Microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) is an important tertiary oil recovery method which is cost-effective and eco-friendly technology to drive the residual oil trapped in the reservoirs. The potential of microorganisms to degrade heavy crude oil to reduce viscosity is considered to be very effective in MEOR. Earlier studies of MEOR (1950s) were based on three broad areas: injection, dispersion, and propagation of microorganisms in petroleum reservoirs; selective degradation of oil components to improve flow characteristics; and production of metabolites by microorganisms and their effects. Since thermophilic spore-forming bacteria can thrive in very extreme conditions in oil reservoirs, they are the most suitable organisms for the purpose. This paper contains the review of work done with thermophilic spore-forming bacteria by different researchers.
Enhancement of BDNF Concentration and Restoration of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Accompany Reduced Depressive-Like Behaviour in Stressed Ovariectomised Rats Treated with Either Tualang Honey or Estrogen
Authors: Al-Rahbi Badriya , Zakaria Rahimah , Othman Zahiruddin , Hassan Asma’ , Ahmad Asma Hayati
Published: January 2014

A possible interaction between glucocorticoids and estrogen-induced increases in brain-derived-neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in enhancing depressive-like behaviour has been documented. Here we evaluated the effects of Tualang honey, a phytoestrogen, and 17β-estradiol (E2) on the depressive-like behaviour, stress hormones, and BDNF concentration in stressed ovariectomised (OVX) rats. The animals were divided into six groups: (i) nonstressed sham-operated control, (ii) stressed sham-operated control, (iii) nonstressed OVX, (iv) stressed OVX, (v) stressed OVX treated with E2 (20 μg daily, sc), and (vi) stressed OVX treated with Tualang honey (0.2 g/kg body weight daily, orally). Two months after surgery, the animals were subjected to social instability stress procedure followed by forced swimming test. Struggling time, immobility time, and swimming time were scored. Serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone levels, and the BDNF concentration were determined using commercially available ELISA kits. Stressed OVX rats displayed increased depressive-like behaviour with significantly increased serum ACTH and corticosterone levels, while the BDNF concentration was significantly decreased compared to other experimental groups. These changes were notably reversed by both E2 and Tualang honey. In conclusion, both Tualang honey and E2 mediate antidepressive-like effects in stressed OVX rats, possibly acting via restoration of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and enhancement of the BDNF concentration.
Unusual Length of Pedicle: Pedunculated Squamous Papilloma of Uvula Causing Unusual Dysphagia of Long Duration in a Child of 10 Years
Authors: Devi Ramisetty Sabitha , Rajsekhar B. , Srinivas G. Vijay , Moon Ninad J.
Published: January 2014

Benign oropharyngeal tumors are far less common compared to malignant tumors. Oropharyngeal papilloma is present in adults. Squamous papillomas are exophytic masses of oral cavity. When they occur on the palate they are most often asymptomatic and benign. Pedunculated squamous papillomas usually arise from the soft palate, tonsil, or the epiglottis. These lesions can sometimes prove to be fatal. A case of pedunculated squamous papilloma, arising from the laryngopharynx, the clinical presentation, the site of origin, and the size of the lesion were quite unusual. The narrow base of the pedicle made the intraoral excision possible. But here, we present a case of a 10-year-old boy who had history of dysphagia of 3-year duration for solid food and he was comfortable only in squatting position the reason being squamous papilloma of uvula (unusual site) atypically because of astonishing length of pedicle (2.3 inches).
Expression of Potential Regulatory Genes in Abdominal Adipose Tissue of Broiler Chickens during Early Development
Authors: Bohannon-Stewart Ann , Kelley Gary , Kimathi Boniface , Subramanya Sri Harsha K. V. , Donkor Joseph , Darris Carl , Tyus James , Payne Ashley , Byers Shannon , Hui Dafeng , Nahashon Samuel , Chen Fur-Chi , Ivy Michael , Wang Xiaofei
Published: January 2014

The identities of genes that underlie population variation in adipose tissue development in farm animals are poorly understood. Previous studies in our laboratory have suggested that increased fat tissue involves the expression modulation of an array of genes in broiler chickens. Of special interest are eight genes,FGFR3, EPHB2, IGFBP2, GREM1, TNC, COL3A1, ACBD7, andSCD. To understand their expression regulation and response to dietary manipulation, we investigated their mRNA levels after dietary manipulation during early development. Chickens were fed either a recommended standard or a high caloric diet from hatch to eight weeks of age (WOA). The high caloric diet markedly affected bodyweight of the broiler birds. mRNA levels of the eight genes in the abdominal adipose tissue were assayed at 2, 4, 6, and 8 WOA using RT-qPCR. Results indicate that (1)FGFR3mRNA level was affected significantly by diet, age, and diet:age interaction; (2)COL3AmRNA level was repressed by high caloric diet; (3) mRNA levels ofEPHB2, ACBD7, andSCDwere affected by age; (4) mRNA level ofTNCwas modulated by age:diet interaction; (5) changes inGREM1andIGFBP2mRNA levels were not statistically different.
Astrocyte-Secreted Matricellular Proteins in CNS Remodelling during Development and Disease
Authors: Jones Emma V. , Bouvier David S.
Published: January 2014

Matricellular proteins are secreted, nonstructural proteins that regulate the extracellular matrix (ECM) and interactions between cells through modulation of growth factor signaling, cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. Despite being well described in the context of nonneuronal tissues, recent studies have revealed that these molecules may also play instrumental roles in central nervous system (CNS) development and diseases. In this minireview, we discuss the matricellular protein families SPARC (secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine), Hevin/SC1 (SPARC-like 1), TN-C (Tenascin C), TSP (Thrombospondin), and CCN (CYR61/CTGF/NOV), which are secreted by astrocytes during development. These proteins exhibit a reduced expression in adult CNS but are upregulated in reactive astrocytes following injury or disease, where they are well placed to modulate the repair processes such as tissue remodeling, axon regeneration, glial scar formation, angiogenesis, and rewiring of neural circuitry. Conversely, their reexpression in reactive astrocytes may also lead to detrimental effects and promote the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
3D-QSAR and Docking Studies of a Series ofβ-Carboline Derivatives as Antitumor Agents of PLK1
Authors: Ghasemi Jahan B. , Davoudian Valentin
Published: January 2014

An alignment-free, three dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) analysis has been performed on a series ofβ-carboline derivatives as potent antitumor agents toward HepG2 human tumor cell lines. A highly descriptive and predictive 3D-QSAR model was obtained through the calculation of alignment-independent descriptors (GRIND descriptors) using ALMOND software. For a training set of 30 compounds, PLS analyses result in a three-component model which displays a squared correlation coefficient (r2) of 0.957 and a standard deviation of the error of calculation (SDEC) of 0.116. Validation of this model was performed using leave-one-out,q2looof 0.85, and leave-multiple-out. This model gives a remarkably highr2pred(0.66) for a test set of 10 compounds. Docking studies were performed to investigate the mode of interaction betweenβ-carboline derivatives and the active site of the most probable anticancer receptor, polo-like kinase protein.
Usefulness of Routine Terminal Ileoscopy and Biopsy during Colonoscopy in a Tropical Setting: A Retrospective Record-Based Study
Authors: Wijewantha Hasitha Srimal , de Silva Arjuna Priyadarsin , Niriella Madunil Anuk , Wijesinghe Nethini , Waraketiya Prabahvi , Kumarasena Ravindu Sujeewa , Dassanayake Anuradha Supun , Hewawisenthi Janaki de Silva , de Silva Hithanadura Janaka
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Available evidence for routine terminal ileoscopy during colonoscopy is equivocal. We investigated the place of routine terminal ileoscopy and biopsy during colonoscopy, in a tropical setting.Materials and Methods. All consenting adults undergoing colonoscopy had routine TI and biopsy. Patients with right iliac fossa (RIF) pain, diarrhoea, anaemia, suspected inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and raised inflammatory markers were defined as Group A and all others undergoing colonoscopy as Group B.Results. Caecal intubation and TI were achieved in 988/1096 (90.15%) and 832/1096 (75.9%) cases, respectively. 764/832(91.8%) patients were included in final analysis. 81/764 (10.6%) patients had either macroscopic (34/81) or microscopic (47/81) abnormalities of terminal ileum; 20/81 had both. These were CD (28/47), tuberculosis (TB) (6/47), ileitis due to resolving infection (8/47), and drug-induced ileitis (5/47). 27/81 with macroscopically normal ileum had CD (18/27), ileitis due to resolving infection (5/27) and drug-induced ileitis (4/27) on histology. 12/764 (1.57%) patients with macroscopically normal colon had ileal CD (8/12), drug-induced ileitis (2/12), and resolving ileal infection (2/12) on histology. 47/764 (6.15%) patients had ileal pathology that influenced subsequent management. These were significantly higher in Group A (43/555 (8%)) than in Group B (4/209 (1.9%)) (P=0.0048,χ2=7.968).Conclusion. TI and biopsy improve diagnostic yield of colonoscopy in patients with RIF pain, diarrhoea, anaemia, suspected IBD, and raised inflammatory markers.
TcGenerator Development: Up-to-DateTcRecovery Technologies for Increasing the Effectiveness ofMoUtilisation
Authors: Le Van So
Published: January 2014

A review on theMosources available today and on theTcgenerators developed up to date for increasing the effectiveness ofMoutilisation is performed in the format of detailed description of the features and technical performance of the technological groups of theMoproduction andTcrecovery. The latest results of the endeavour in this field are also surveyed in regard of the technical solution for overcoming the shortage ofMosupply. The technological topics are grouped and discussed in a way to reflect the similarity in the technological process of each group. The following groups are included in this review which are high specific activityMo: the current issues of production, the efforts of more effective utilisation, and the high specific activityMo-basedTcgenerator andTcconcentration units; low specific activityMo: theMoproduction based on neutron capture and accelerators and the direct production ofTcand the methods of increasing the specific activity ofMousing Szilard-Chalmers reaction and high electric power isotopic separator; up-to-date technologies ofTcrecovery from low specific activityMo: the solvent extraction-basedTcgenerator, the sublimation methods forMo/Tcseparation, the electrochemical method forTcrecovery, and the column chromatographic methods forTcrecovery. Besides the traditionalTc-generator systems, the integratedTcgenerator systems (Tcgenerator column combined with postelution purification/concentration unit) are discussed with the format of process diagram and picture of real generator systems. These systems are the technetium selective sorbent column-based generators, the high Mo-loading capacity column-based integratedTcgenerator systems which include the saline-eluted generator systems, and the nonsaline aqueous and organic solvent eluent-eluted generator systems using high Mo-loading capacity molybdategel and recently developed sorbent columns.Tcconcentration methods used in theTcrecovery from low specific activityMoare also discussed with detailed process diagrams which are surveyed in two groups forTcconcentration from the saline and nonsalineTc-eluates. The evaluation methods for the performance ofTc-recovery/concentration process and for theTc-elution capability versus Mo-loading capacity of generator column produced using low specific activityMosource are briefly reported. Together with the theoretical aspects ofTc/Moand sorbent chemistry, these evaluation/assessment processes will be useful for any further development in the field of theTcrecovery andMo/Tcgenerator production.
An Enhanced Informed Watermarking Scheme Using the Posterior Hidden Markov Model
Authors: Wang Chuntao
Published: January 2014

Designing a practical watermarking scheme with high robustness, feasible imperceptibility, and large capacity remains one of the most important research topics in robust watermarking. This paper presents a posterior hidden Markov model (HMM-) based informed image watermarking scheme, which well enhances the practicability of the prior-HMM-based informed watermarking with favorable robustness, imperceptibility, and capacity. To make the encoder and decoder use the (nearly) identical posterior HMM, each cover image at the encoder and each received image at the decoder are attacked with JPEG compression at an equivalently small quality factor (QF). The attacked images are then employed to estimate HMM parameter sets for both the encoder and decoder, respectively. Numerical simulations show that a small QF of 5 is an optimum setting for practical use. Based on this posterior HMM, we develop an enhanced posterior-HMM-based informed watermarking scheme. Extensive experimental simulations show that the proposed scheme is comparable to its prior counterpart in which the HMM is estimated with the original image, but it avoids the transmission of the prior HMM from the encoder to the decoder. This thus well enhances the practical application of HMM-based informed watermarking systems. Also, it is demonstrated that the proposed scheme has the robustness comparable to the state-of-the-art with significantly reduced computation time.
Hybrid Functional‐Neural Approach for Surface Reconstruction
Authors: Iglesias Andrés , Gálvez Akemi
Published: January 2014

This paper introduces a new hybrid functional‐neural approach for surface reconstruction. Our approach is based on the combination of two powerful artificial intelligence paradigms: on one hand, we apply the popular Kohonen neural network to address the data parameterization problem. On the other hand, we introduce a new functional network, called NURBS functional network, whose topology is aimed at reproducing faithfully the functional structure of the NURBS surfaces. These neural and functional networks are applied in an iterative fashion for further surface refinement. The hybridization of these two networks provides us with a powerful computational approach to obtain a NURBS fitting surface to a set of irregularly sampled noisy data points within a prescribed error threshold. The method has been applied to two illustrative examples. The experimental results confirm the good performance of our approach.
Experimental Investigation of the Interaction between Rising Bubbles and Swirling Water Flow
Authors: Uchiyama Tomomi , Sasaki Shunsuke
Published: January 2014

This study experimentally investigates the interaction between rising bubbles and swirling water flow imposed around the central (vertical) axis of a bubble plume in a cylindrical water tank. Small air bubbles are successively released from the bottom of the tank to generate a bubble plume, and a stirring disc at the bottom of the tank is rotated to impose a swirling water flow around the central axis of the bubble plume. The bubbles disperse further with the increasing rotational speedωof the stirring disc. Some bubbles shift toward the central axis of the swirling flow whenωis high. The nondimensional swirling velocity of water reduces with increasing bubble flow rate whenωis lower than a certain value. However, it is less affected by the bubbles whenωis higher. The precessional amplitude for the upper end of the vortex core increases due to the presence of the bubbles. With increasingω, the nondimensional precessional velocity decreases, and the bubble effect also reduces.
Dependence of Performance of Si Nanowire Solar Cells on Geometry of the Nanowires
Authors: Khan Firoz , Baek Seong-Ho , Kim Jae Hyun
Published: January 2014

The dependence of performance of silicon nanowires (SiNWs) solar cells on the growth condition of the SiNWs has been described. Metal-assisted electroless etching (MAE) technique has been used to grow SiNWs array. Different concentration of aqueous solution containing AgNO3and HF for Ag deposition is used. The diameter and density of SiNWs are found to be dependent on concentration of solution used for Ag deposition. The diameter and density of SiNWs have been used to calculate the filling ratio of the SINWs arrays. The filling ratio is increased with increase in AgNO3concentration, whereas it is decreased with increase in HF concentration. The minimum reflectance value achieved is ~1% for SiNWs of length of ~1.2 μm in the wavelength range of 300–1000 nm. The performance and diode parameters strongly depend on the geometry of SiNWs. The maximum short circuit current density achieved is 35.6 mA/cm2. The conversion efficiency of solar cell is 9.73% for SiNWs with length, diameter, and wire density of ~1.2 μm, ~75 nm, and 90 μm−2, respectively.
Differential Gene Expression in High- and Low-Active Inbred Mice
Authors: Dawes Michelle , Moore-Harrison Trudy , Hamilton Alicia T. , Ceaser Tyrone , Kochan Kelli J. , Riggs Penny K. , Lightfoot J. Timothy
Published: January 2014

Numerous candidate genes have been suggested in the recent literature with proposed roles in regulation of voluntary physical activity, with little evidence of these genes’ functional roles. This study compared the haplotype structure and expression profile in skeletal muscle and brain of inherently high- (C57L/J) and low- (C3H/HeJ) active mice. Expression of nine candidate genes [Actn2,Actn3,Casq1,Drd2,Lepr,Mc4r,Mstn,Papss2, andGlut4(a.k.a.Slc2a4)] was evaluated via RT-qPCR. SNPs were observed in regions ofActn2,Casq1,Drd2,Lepr, andPapss2; however, no SNPs were located in coding sequences or associated with any known regulatory sequences. In mice exposed to a running wheel,Casq1(P=0.0003) andMstn(P=0.002) transcript levels in the soleus were higher in the low-active mice. However, when these genes were evaluated in naïve animals, differential expression was not observed, demonstrating a training effect. Among naïve mice, no genes in either tissue exhibited differential expression between strains. Considering that no obvious SNP mechanisms were determined or differential expression was observed, our results indicate that genomic structural variation or gene expression data alone is not adequate to establish any of these genes’ candidacy or causality in relation to regulation of physical activity.
Morphological, Structural, and Optical Properties of Single-Phase Cu(In,Ga)Se2Thin Films from the Selenization of Thermally Evaporated InSe/Cu/GaSe Precursors
Authors: Dejene Francis B.
Published: January 2014

The relatively small band gap values (~1 eV) of CuInSe2thin films limit the conversion efficiencies of completed CuInSe2/CdS/ZnO solar cell devices. In the case of traditional two-stage growth techniques, limited success has been achieved to homogeneously increase the band gap by substituting indium with gallium. In this study, thermal evaporation of InSe/Cu/Gase precursors was exposed to an elemental Se vapour under defined conditions. This technique produced large-grained, single-phase Cu(In,Ga)Se2thin films with a high degree of in-depth compositional uniformity. The selenization temperature, ramp time, reaction period, and the effusion cell temperature with respect to the Cu(In,Ga)Se2films were optimized in this study. The homogeneous incorporation of Ga into CuInSe2led to a systematic shift in the lattice spacing parameters and band gap of the absorber films. Under optimized conditions, gallium in cooperation resulted only in a marginal decrease in the grain size, X-ray diffraction studies confirmed single-phase Cu(In,Ga)Se2material, and X-ray photoluminescence spectroscopy in-depth profiling revealed a uniform distribution of the elements through the entire depth of the alloy. From these studies optimum selenization conditions were determined for the deposition of homogeneous Cu(In,Ga)Se2thin films with optimum band gap values between 1.01 and 1.21 eV.
A Comparison between Emergency Medicine Residency Training Programs in the United States and Saudi Arabia from the Residents’ Perception
Authors: Alghamdi Khaled , Alburaih Abdulaziz , Wagner Mary Jo
Published: January 2014

Objectives. This study was designed to compare the trainees’ perception of emergency medicine (EM) training in the United States (US) and Saudi Arabia (SA) and to identify residents’ levels of confidence and points of satisfaction in education, procedural skills, and work environment.Method. An IRB-exempt anonymous web-based survey was distributed to five EM residency training programs in the USA and three residency regions in SA.Results. 342 residents were polled with a 20% response rate (16.8% USA and 25.8% SA). The Saudi residents responded less positively to the questions about preparation for their boards’ examinations, access to multiple educational resources, and weekly academic activities. The Saudi trainees felt less competent in less common procedures than US trainees. American trainees also more strongly agree that they have more faculty interest in their education compared to the Saudi trainees. The Saudi residents see more patients per hour compared to their US peers.Conclusion. These findings may be due to the differences in training techniques including less formal didactics and simulation experience in SA and more duty hour regulations in the USA.
The Existence and Uniqueness Result for a Relativistic Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Cheng Yongkuan , Yang Jun
Published: January 2014

We study the existence and uniqueness of positive solutions for a class of quasilinear elliptic equations. This model has been proposed in the self-channeling of a high-power ultrashort laser in matter.
Generalised Joint Hypermobility in Caucasian Girls with Idiopathic Scoliosis: Relation with Age, Curve Size, and Curve Pattern
Authors: Czaprowski Dariusz
Published: January 2014

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of generalised joint hypermobility (GJH) in 155 girls with idiopathic scoliosis (IS) (age 9–18 years, mean 13.8 ± 2.3). The control group included 201 healthy girls. The presence of GJH was assessed with Beighton (B) test. GJH was diagnosed in 23.2% of IS girls and in 13.4% of controls (P=0.02). The prevalence of GJH was significantly (P=0.01) lower in IS girls aged 16–18 years in comparison with younger individuals. There was no difference regarding GJH occurrence between girls with mild (11–24°), moderate (25–40°), and severe scoliosis (>40°) (P=0.78), between girls with single thoracic, single lumbar, and double curve scoliosis (P=0.59), and between girls with thoracic scoliosis length ≤7 and >7 vertebrae (P=0.25). No correlation between the number of points in B and the Cobb angle (P=0.93), as well as between the number of points in B and the number of the vertebrae within thoracic scoliosis (P=0.63), was noticed. GJH appeared more often in IS girls than in healthy controls. Its prevalence decreased with age. No relation between GJH prevalence and curve size, curve pattern, or scoliosis length was found.
EMP: Exploiting Mobility Patterns for Collaborative Localization in Sparse Mobile Networks
Authors: Zhu Yanmin , Tian Zhenzhen , Yu Jiadi
Published: January 2014

Location awareness plays an indispensable role in a wide variety of application domains such as environment monitoring and vehicle tracking. In this paper we focus on the localization of mobile users in sparse mobile networks which exist in many practical scenarios where users are distributed over a vast area. The unique characteristics of sparse mobile networks present several challenges for accurate localization, such as constant movement and little information from anchors. By analyzing five large datasets of real users traces with entropy analysis from five sites, we make an important observation that there are strong patterns with user mobility. Motivated by this observation, we propose a localization approach called EMP by exploiting mobility patterns of users for localization in sparse mobile networks. EMP implements a range-free distributed algorithm, with which each user collaboratively estimates its current location by fusing two localization sources, that is, network connectivity with other nodes and mobility patterns. With trace driven simulations, we demonstrate that EMP significantly improves the localization accuracy, comparing with other existing localization approaches.
Nanocomposites of Polyacrylic Acid Nanogels and Biodegradable Polyhydroxybutyrate for Bone Regeneration and Drug Delivery
Authors: Larsson Mikael , Bergstrand Anna , Mesiah Lilyan , Van Vooren Celine , Larsson Anette
Published: January 2014

Biodegradable cell scaffolds and local drug delivery to stimulate cell response are currently receiving much scientific attention. Here we present a nanocomposite that combines biodegradation with controlled release of lithium, which is known to enhance bone growth. Nanogels of lithium neutralized polyacrylic acid were synthesized by microemulsion‐templated polymerization and were incorporated into a biodegradable polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) matrix. Nanogel size was characterized using dynamic light scattering, and the nanocomposites were characterized with regard to structure using scanning electron microscopy, mechanical properties using tensile testing, permeability using tritiated water, and lithium release in PBS using a lithium specific electrode. The nanogels were well dispersed in the composites and the mechanical properties were good, with a decrease in elastic modulus being compensated by increased tolerance to strain in the wet state. Approximately half of the lithium was released over about three hours, with the remaining fraction being trapped in the PHB for subsequent slow release during biodegradation. The prepared nanocomposites seem promising for use as dual functional scaffolds for bone regeneration. Here lithium ions were chosen as model drug, but the nanogels could potentially act as carriers for larger and more complex drugs, possibly while still carrying lithium.
The Kirchhoff Index of Folded Hypercubes and Some Variant Networks
Authors: Liu Jiabao , Pan Xiang-Feng , Wang Yi , Cao Jinde
Published: January 2014

The n‐dimensional folded hypercube FQn is an important and attractive variant of the n‐dimensional hypercube Qn, which is obtained from Qn by adding an edge between any pair of vertices complementary edges. FQn is superior to Qn in many measurements, such as the diameter of FQnwhich is ⌈n/2⌉, about a half of the diameter in terms of Qn. The Kirchhoff index Kf(G) is the sum of resistance distances between all pairs of vertices in G. In this paper, we established the relationships between the folded hypercubes networks FQn and its three variant networks l(FQn), s(FQn), and t(FQn) on their Kirchhoff index, by deducing the characteristic polynomial of the Laplacian matrix in spectral graph theory. Moreover, the explicit formulae for the Kirchhoff indexes of FQn, l(FQn), s(FQn), and t(FQn) were proposed, respectively.
Are Plant Species’ Richness and Diversity Influenced by Fragmentation at a Microscale?
Authors: Aguirre-Gutiérrez Jesús
Published: January 2014

It is argued that forest fragmentation has negative effects on biodiversity at the short and long term; however, these effects might be dependent on the specific vegetation of the study area and its intrinsic characteristics. The processes leading to fragmentation are very diverse and many of them have anthropogenic causes as logging actions and clearings for agricultural fields. Furthermore, it is thought that scale plays an important role in the expected effects of fragmentation on biodiversity. In this study the effect of forest fragmentation and its impact on the woody plants species, richness and diversity are analysed considering three vegetation types in a poorly studied and difficult access biodiversity hotspot in northern Mexico. The results show that the effects of fragmentation are dependent on the vegetation type and that these are not strongly related to the species richness, and diversity in a microscale (100 m2). Fragmentation effects on biodiversity must be analysed in a broad scale, considering the fragment as a whole. Furthermore, conservation priority should be given to the larger fragments, which could potentially maintain a higher portion of biodiversity. Management should also be focused on increasing the connectivity between these big and medium size forest patches.
Acinar Cell Carcinoma of the Pancreas with Colon Involvement
Authors: Asayama Naoki , Kojima Yasushi , Aoki Tomonori , Maeyashiki Chiaki , Yokoi Chizu , Yanase Mikio , Suda Ryuichiro , Yano Hideaki , Nakamura Harumi , Igari Toru
Published: January 2014

We report a case of acinar cell carcinoma of the pancreas with colon involvement that was difficult to distinguish from primary colon cancer. A 60-year-old man was admitted with a 1-month history of diarrhea. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a large tumor (10.6×11.6 cm) at the splenic flexure of the colon. Colonoscopy showed completely round ulcerative lesions, and biopsy revealed poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. Left hemicolectomy, resection of the jejunum and pancreas body and tail, and splenectomy were performed based on a diagnosis of descending colon cancer (cT4N0M0, stage IIB), and surgery was considered to be curative. Diagnosis was subsequently confirmed as moderately differentiated acinar cell carcinoma of the pancreas by immunohistochemical staining (pT3N0M0, stage IIA). Multiple liver metastases with portal thrombosis were found 8 weeks postoperatively. Despite combination chemotherapy with oral S-1 and gemcitabine, the patient died of hepatic failure with no effect of chemotherapy 14 weeks postoperatively. Correct diagnosis was difficult to determine preoperatively from the clinical, CT, and colonoscopy findings. Moreover, the disease was extremely aggressive even after curative resection. Physicians should consider pancreatic cancer in the differential diagnosis of similar cases.
Related-Key Cryptanalysis on the Full PRINTcipher Suitable for IC-Printing
Authors: Lee Yuseop , Jeong Kitae , Lee Changhoon , Sung Jaechul , Hong Seokhie
Published: January 2014

PRINTcipher-48/96 are 48/96-bit block ciphers proposed in CHES 2010 which support the 80/160-bit secret keys, respectively. In this paper, we propose related-key cryptanalysis of PRINTcipher. To recover the 80-bit secret key of PRINTcipher-48, our attack requires 247 related-key chosen plaintexts with a computational complexity of[Formula: see text]. In the case of PRINTcipher-96, we require 295 related-key chosen plaintexts with a computational complexity of 2107. These results are the first known related-key cryptanalytic results on them.
Functional Expression Study ofIgf2Antisense Transcript in Mouse
Authors: Duart-Garcia Carolina , Braunschweig Martin H.
Published: January 2014

Insulin-like growth factor antisense gene (Igf2as) expression was investigated in different mouse tissues during development, in differentiating C2C12 cells and in aΔDMR1-U2 knockout mouse model. The expression levels ofIgf2aswere high in fetal and newborn liver and muscle tissues compared to adults. TheIgf2asgene was also expressed in placenta and in brain. The expression data suggests that theIgf2asgene plays a role in early development of the mouse and in placenta. There was no consistent evidence for an interaction betweenIgf2andIgf2astranscripts. Furthermore, in knockout placentas lackingIgf2astranscription,Igf2expression was comparable to that in wild type. These results indicate thatIgf2asdoes not regulateIgf2sense transcripts. In previous studies, it was suggested that theΔDMR1-U2 knockout mouse showing intrauterine growth restriction was caused by the absence of placenta-specificIgf2P0 transcription. We conclude that theΔDMR1-U2 deletion phenotype should be reconsidered in the light of a functionalIgf2asgene.
High Accuracy 2D-DOA Estimation for Conformal Array Using PARAFAC
Authors: Wan Liangtian , Si Weijian , Liu Lutao , Tian Zuoxi , Feng Naixing
Published: January 2014

Due to the polarization diversity (PD) of element patterns caused by the varying curvature of the conformal carrier, the conventional direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation algorithms could not be applied to the conformal array. In order to describe the PD of conformal array, the polarization parameter is considered in the snapshot data model. The paramount difficulty for DOA estimation is the coupling between the angle information and polarization parameter. Based on the characteristic of the cylindrical conformal array, the decoupling between the polarization parameter and DOA can be realized with a specially designed array structure. 2D-DOA estimation of the cylindrical conformal array is accomplished via parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) theory. To avoid parameter pairing problem, the algorithm forms a PARAFAC model of the covariance matrices in the covariance domain. The proposed algorithm can also be generalized to other conformal array structures and nonuniform noise scenario. Cramer-Rao bound (CRB) is derived and simulation results with the cylindrical conformal array are presented to verify the performance of the proposed algorithm.
Calabash Chalk's Geophagy Affects Gestating Rats' Behavior and the Histomorphology of the Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Ekong Moses B. , Peter Aniekan I. , Ekanem Theresa B. , Eluwa Mokutima A. , Mbadugha Christopher C. , Osim Eme E.
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Calabash chalk contains heavy metals, and this lead to this study on the effect of this chalk on the behavior and the histomorphology of the cerebral cortex of gestating rats. Material & Methods. 24 female rats were equally divided into 4 groups and were mated at preostrous with the males. The day after mating was designated as day 1 of gestation. On gestation days 7–20, groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 animals were treated with 1 mL of distilled water, and 1 mL (200 mg/kg), 2 mL (400 mg/kg), and 3 mL (600 mg/kg) of calabash chalk suspension, respectively. On pregnancy day 21, behavioral tests using the open field and the light/dark mazes were carried out and the animals subsequently euthanized and their brains were routinely processed. Results. There was no difference in ambulatory activities, but group 4 animals had more (P<0.05) transition frequency and were more averse to the dark in the light and dark field, while sections of the cerebral cortex showed a higher (P<0.05) cellular population, hypertrophied pyramidal cells, and vacuolations in the treatment groups. Conclusion. Calabash chalk may have anxiolytic effect especially at high dose in the light and dark field but not in the open field and can stimulate maternal cerebral cortical cellular changes.
A General Result on the Mean Integrated Squared Error of the Hard Thresholding Wavelet Estimator underα-Mixing Dependence
Authors: Chesneau Christophe
Published: January 2014

We consider the estimation of an unknown functionffor weakly dependent data (α-mixing) in a general setting. Our contribution is theoretical: we prove that a hard thresholding wavelet estimator attains a sharp rate of convergence under the mean integrated squared error (MISE) over Besov balls without imposing too restrictive assumptions on the model. Applications are given for two types of inverse problems: the deconvolution density estimation and the density estimation in a GARCH-type model, both improve existing results in this dependent context. Another application concerns the regression model with random design.
An Analytical Approach for Analysis of Slider Bearings with Non-Newtonian Lubricants
Authors: Chu Li-Ming , Hsu Hsiang-Chen , Chen Jiann-Lin
Published: January 2014

In this study, a regular perturbation technique is utilized to derive the modified Reynolds equation which is applicable to power-law lubricant. The performance of slider bearings including pressure distributions, velocity distributions, film thickness, load capacity, flow rate, shear force, and friction coefficient is also derived analytically for various ξ, flow indices ( n), and outlet film thicknesses ( H 0). These analytical solutions are clear to find the effects of the operation parameters rather than numerical methods. It can be simply and fast used for engineers. Subsequently, these proposed analytical solutions are used to analyze the lubrication performance of slider bearing with the power-law fluids.
Influence of Humidity on Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Montero Ander , Aldabaldetreku Gotzon , Durana Gaizka , Jorge Iagoba , Sáez de Ocáriz Idurre , Zubia Joseba
Published: January 2014

We demonstrate the influence of the relative humidity (RH) on the wavelength of fiber Bragg grating sensors (FBGS), performing tests with five FBGS at different humidity and temperature conditions. These tests were performed in a climate chamber whose RH changes according to a scheduled profile from 30% to 90%, in steps of 10%. These profiles were repeated for a wide range of temperatures from10∘Cto70∘C, in steps of10∘C. Two different types of instrumentation methods have been tested, spot welding and epoxy bonding, in two different materials, steel and carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP). We discuss the results for each type of sensor and instrumentation method by analyzing the linearity of the Bragg wavelength with RH and temperature.
Self-Interference Cancellation-Based Mutual-Coupling Model for Full-Duplex Single-Channel MIMO Systems
Authors: Meerasri Pawinee , Uthansakul Peerapong , Uthansakul Monthippa
Published: January 2014

The challenge of a full-duplex single-channel system is the method to transmit and receive signals simultaneously at the same time and on the same frequency. Consequently, a critical issue involved in such an operation is the resulting self-interference. Moreover, for MIMO system, the full-duplex single-channel system is subjected to the very strong self-interference signals due to multiple transmitting and receiving antennas. So far in the pieces of literature, there have not been any suitable techniques presented to reduce the self-interference for full-duplex single-channel MIMO systems. This paper initially proposes the method to cancel the self-interference by utilizing the mutual-coupling model for self-interference cancellation. The interference can be eliminated by using a preknown interference, that is, the mutual-coupling signals. The results indicate that the channel capacity performance of the proposed technique can significantly be improved due to the reduction of the self-interference power. The measurement results indicate that the proposed MIMO system can suppress the self-interference and mutual-interference signals with the reduction of 31 dB received power.
A Linear Approximate Algorithm for Earth Mover′s Distance with Thresholded Ground Distance
Authors: Li Longjie , Ma Min , Lei Peng , Wang Xiaoping , Chen Xiaoyun
Published: January 2014

Effective and efficient image comparison plays a vital role in content‐based image retrieval (CBIR). The earth mover’s distance (EMD) is an enticing measure for image comparison, offering intuitive geometric interpretation and modelling the human perceptions of similarity. Unfortunately, computing EMD, using the simplex method, has cubic complexity. FastEMD, based on min‐cost flow, reduces the complexity to (O(N2log⁡N)). Although both methods can obtain the optimal result, the high complexity prevents the application of EMD on large‐scale image datasets. Thresholding the ground distance can make EMD faster and more robust, since it can decrease the impact of noise and reduce the range of transportation. In this paper, we present a new image distance metric, EMD+, which applies a threshold to the ground distance. To compute EMD+, the FastEMD approach can be employed. We also propose a novel linear approximation algorithm. Our algorithm achieves O(N) complexity with the benefit of qualified bins. Experimental results show that (1) our method is 2 to 3 orders of magnitude faster than EMD (computed by FastEMD) and 2 orders of magnitude faster than FastEMD and (2) the precision of our approximation algorithm is no less than the precision of FastEMD.
The Representation of Circular Arc by Using Rational Cubic Timmer Curve
Authors: Abbas Muhammad , Ramli Norhidayah , Majid Ahmad Abd. , Ali Jamaludin Md.
Published: January 2014

In CAD/CAM systems, rational polynomials, in particular the Bézier or NURBS forms, are useful to approximate the circular arcs. In this paper, a new representation method by means of rational cubic Timmer (RCT) curves is proposed to effectively represent a circular arc. The turning angle of a rational cubic Bézier and rational cubic Ball circular arcs without negative weight is still not more than 4π/3 and π, respectively. The turning angle of proposed approach is more than Bézier and Ball circular arcs with easier calculation and determination of control points. The proposed method also provides the easier modification in the shape of circular arc showing in several numerical examples.
Enhancing Postgraduate Learning and Teaching: Postgraduate Summer School in Dairy Science
Authors: Celi Pietro , Gabai Gianfranco , Morgante Massimo , Gallo Luigi
Published: January 2014

Dairy science is a multidisciplinary area of scientific investigation and Ph.D. students aiming to do research in the field of animal and/or veterinary sciences must be aware of this. Ph.D. students often have vast spectra of research interests, and it is quite challenging to satisfy the expectation of all of them. The aim of this study was to establish an international Ph.D. training program based on research collaboration between the University of Sydney and the University of Padova. The core component of this program was a two-week Postgraduate Summer School in Dairy Science, which was held at the University of Padova, for Ph.D. students of both universities. Therefore, we designed a program that encompassed seminars, workshops, laboratory practical sessions, and farm visits. Participants were surveyed using a written questionnaire. Overall, participants have uniformly praised the Summer School calling it a rewarding and valuable learning experience. The Ph.D. Summer School in Dairy Science provided its participants a positive learning experience, provided them the opportunity to establish an international network, and facilitated the development of transferable skills.
Detection of Earthquake-Induced Damage in a Framed Structure Using a Finite Element Model Updating Procedure
Authors: Yu Eunjong , Kim Seung-Nam , Park Taewon , Lee Sang-Hyun
Published: January 2014

Damage of a 5-story framed structure was identified from two types of measured data, which are frequency response functions (FRF) and natural frequencies, using a finite element (FE) model updating procedure. In this study, a procedure to determine the appropriate weightings for different groups of observations was proposed. In addition, a modified frame element which included rotational springs was used to construct the FE model for updating to represent concentrated damage at the member ends (a formulation for plastic hinges in framed structures subjected to strong earthquakes). The results of the model updating and subsequent damage detection when the rotational springs (RS model) were used were compared with those obtained using the conventional frame elements (FS model). Comparisons indicated that the RS model gave more accurate results than the FS model. That is, the errors in the natural frequencies of the updated models were smaller, and the identified damage showed clearer distinctions between damaged and undamaged members and was more consistent with observed damage.
Updates in Reproduction Coming from the Endocannabinoid System
Authors: Meccariello Rosaria , Battista Natalia , Bradshaw Heather B. , Wang Haibin
Published: January 2014

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an evolutionarily conserved master system deeply involved in the central and local control of reproductive functions in both sexes. The tone of these lipid mediators—deeply modulated by the activity of biosynthetic and hydrolyzing machineries—regulates reproductive functions from gonadotropin discharge and steroid biosynthesis to the formation of high quality gametes and successful pregnancy. This review provides an overview on ECS and reproduction and focuses on the insights in the regulation of endocannabinoid production by steroids, in the regulation of male reproductive activity, and in placentation and parturition. Taken all together, evidences emerge that the activity of the ECS is crucial for procreation and may represent a target for the therapeutic exploitation of infertility.
Warfarin Dosing in a Patient withCYP2C9*3*3andVKORC1-1639 AAGenotypes
Authors: Johnson Mark , Richard Craig , Bogdan Renee , Kidd Robert
Published: January 2014

Genetic factors most correlated with warfarin dose requirements are variations in the genes encoding the enzymes cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) and vitamin K epoxide reductase (VKOR). Patients receiving warfarin who possess one or more genetic variations inCYP2C9andVKORC1are at increased risk of adverse drug events and require significant dose reductions to achieve a therapeutic international normalized ratio (INR). A 74-year-old white female with atrial fibrillation was initiated on a warfarin dose of 2 mg PO daily, which resulted in multiple elevated INR measurements and three clinically significant hemorrhagic events and four vitamin K antidote treatments over a period of less than two weeks. Genetic analysis later revealed that she had the homozygous variant genotypes ofCYP2C9*3*3andVKORC1-1639 AA. Warfarin dosing was subsequently restarted and stabilized at 0.5 mg PO daily with therapeutic INRs. This is the first case report of a white female with these genotypes stabilized on warfarin, and it highlights the value of pharmacogenetic testing prior to the initiation of warfarin therapy to maximize efficacy and minimize the risk of adverse drug events.