bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modified Projective Synchronization between Different Fractional‐Order Systems Based on Open‐Plus‐Closed‐Loop Control and Its Application in Image Encryption
Authors: Liu Hongjuan , Zhu Zhiliang , Yu Hai , Zhu Qian
Published: March 2014

A new general and systematic coupling scheme is developed to achieve the modified projective synchronization (MPS) of different fractional‐order systems under parameter mismatch via the Open‐Plus‐Closed‐Loop (OPCL) control. Based on the stability theorem of linear fractional‐order systems, some sufficient conditions for MPS are proposed. Two groups of numerical simulations on the incommensurate fraction‐order system and commensurate fraction‐order system are presented to justify the theoretical analysis. Due to the unpredictability of the scale factors and the use of fractional‐order systems, the chaotic data from the MPS is selected to encrypt a plain image to obtain higher security. Simulation results show that our method is efficient with a large key space, high sensitivity to encryption keys, resistance to attack of differential attacks, and statistical analysis.
Channel Estimation and Information Symbol Detection for DS‐UWB Communication Systems
Authors: Wang Wei , Han Chunyan
Published: March 2014

The UWB channel estimation and multiuser detection problem are investigated. The information symbol and channel parameter are considered as unknown variables. The multiuser detector and UWB channel estimator are designed jointly. For symbol detection, the one‐step predictor of channel parameter is used and the estimation error is treated as a multiplicative noise; then a Riccati equation and a Lyapunov equation will be needed. If the transmitted symbols are uncorrelated and identically distributed random variables with zero mean and unit variance, only a Riccati equation needs to be solved. For UWB channel
estimation, the one‐step predictor of information symbol is used and the estimation error is also considered as a multiplicative noise. The solutions to the above two problems are obtained by solving a couple of Riccati equations together with two Lyapunov equations.
MicroRNAs 146a and 147b Biomarkers for Colorectal Tumor’s Localization
Authors: Omrane Inés , Kourda Nadia , Stambouli Nejla , Privat Maud , Medimegh Imen , Arfaoui Amira , Uhrhammer Nancy , Bougatef Karim , Baroudi Olfa , Bouzaienne Hassen , Marrakchi Raja , Bignon Yves-Jean , Benammar-Elgaaied Amel
Published: March 2014

The recently identified class of microRNAs (miRs) provided a new insight into cancer research, since abnormalities of members of microRNAs family have been found in various types of cancer. However, the relationship between five miRNAs (miR146a, miR155, miR21, miR135a, and miR147b) and colorectal cancer remains unclear. In the present study, we examined expression of these miRNAs in 25 pair-matched colon cancer tissues and normal colon mucosa. The expression levels of miR146a, miR155, miR21, miR135a, and miR147b were quantified by real-time PCR. We found that miR21, miR146a, and miR135a were all expressed at higher levels in colon tumors. On the other hand, miR146a and miR147b expressions are significantly higher in left colon compared to right colon. These two miRs, especially miR146a, seemed to be markers for the left colon tumors. Moreover, significant proportional and inverse correlations were found between miR expressions in tumor and healthy tissue, and the correlations profiles were different depending on cancer localization. Taken together, these results lead us to suggest the presence of different mechanisms regulating miRs expression and consequently their target genes in left and right colon. So the pathway of colorectal carcinogenesis would be different according to the site of the tumor.
Effect of Intraocular Lens Diameter Implanted in Enucleated Porcine Eye on Intraocular Pressure Induced by Scleral Depression
Authors: Terauchi Gaku , Matsumoto Celso Soiti , Shinoda Kei , Matsumoto Harue , Mizota Atsushi
Published: March 2014

The effect of the diameter of an intraocular lens (IOL) implanted in enucleated porcine eyes on the intraocular pressure induced by scleral depression was investigated. Two IOLs of 6 mm and 7 mm optic diameter were implanted. The intraocular pressure (IOP) was monitored during scleral depression by a transducer placed in the midvitreous through a sclerotomy at 6 o’clock. The area under the curve (AUC) of the IOP changes from the beginning of the indentation to the point when the peripheral retinal surface was observed through the IOL optics was measured. The AUC was significantly larger in eyes with a 6 mm IOL than in eyes with a 7 mm IOL (p<0.05). The IOP elevation at the endpoint was higher in eyes with the 6 mm IOL than in eyes with the 7 mm IOL. We conclude that the AUC may represent the degree of stress induced by scleral depression. The higher AUC value with the X-60 may be because of the longer distance from the peripheral retina to the edge of the IOL optics.
BACs-on-Beads Technology: A Reliable Test for Rapid Detection of Aneuploidies and Microdeletions in Prenatal Diagnosis
Authors: García-Herrero Sandra , Campos-Galindo Inmaculada , Martínez-Conejero José Antonio , Serra Vicente , Olmo Inés , Lara Coral , Simón Carlos , Rubio Carmen
Published: March 2014

The risk of fetal aneuploidies is usually estimated based on high resolution ultrasound combined with biochemical determination of criterion in maternal blood, with invasive procedures offered to the population at risk. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a new rapid aneuploidy screening test on amniotic fluid (AF) or chorionic villus (CV) samples based on BACs-on-Beads (BoBs) technology and to compare the results with classical karyotyping by Giemsa banding (G-banding) of cultured cells in metaphase as the gold standard technique. The prenatal-BoBs kit was used to study aneuploidies involving chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X, and Y as well as nine microdeletion syndromes in 321 AF and 43 CV samples. G-banding of metaphase cultured cells was performed concomitantly for all prenatal samples. A microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) was also carried out in a subset of samples. Prenatal-BoBs results were widely confirmed by classical karyotyping. Only six karyotype findings were not identified by Prenatal-BoBs, all of them due to the known limitations of the technique. In summary, the BACs-on-Beads technology was an accurate, robust, and efficient method for the rapid diagnosis of common aneuploidies and microdeletion syndromes in prenatal samples.
Transition Characteristic Analysis of Traffic Evolution Process for Urban Traffic Network
Authors: Wang Longfei , Chen Hong , Li Yang
Published: March 2014

The characterization of the dynamics of traffic states remains fundamental to seeking for the solutions of diverse traffic problems. To gain more insights into traffic dynamics in the temporal domain, this paper explored temporal characteristics and distinct regularity in the traffic evolution process of urban traffic network. We defined traffic state pattern through clustering multidimensional traffic time series using self-organizing maps and construct a pattern transition network model that is appropriate for representing and analyzing the evolution progress. The methodology is illustrated by an application to data flow rate of multiple road sections from Network of Shenzhen’s Nanshan District, China. Analysis and numerical results demonstrated that the methodology permits extracting many useful traffic transition characteristics including stability, preference, activity, and attractiveness. In addition, more information about the relationships between these characteristics was extracted, which should be helpful in understanding the complex behavior of the temporal evolution features of traffic patterns.
Update on Salvage Options in Relapsed/Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma after Autotransplant
Authors: Iqbal Nida , Kumar Lalit , Iqbal Naveed
Published: March 2014

Despite a high clinical success, relapse in Hodgkin lymphoma occurs in 10–30% of cases and 5–10% patients are nonresponsive to initial chemotherapy. The standard management of these patients includes high-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplant. However, 50% of patients ultimately relapse after autotransplant which poses a big challenge. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation offers the only chance of cure in these patients. For patients who are not candidates for allogeneic stem cell transplantation, achieving cure with other possible options is highly unlikely, and thus the treatment plan becomes noncurative. Various novel agents have shown promising results but the duration of response is short lived. A standard approach to deliver the most effective treatment for these patients is still lacking. This review focuses on the treatment options currently available for relapsed and refractory disease after autotransplant.
Monotonicity and the Dominated Farthest Points Problem in Banach Lattice
Authors: Khademzadeh H. R. , Mazaheri H.
Published: March 2014

We introduce the dominated farthest points problem in Banach lattices. We prove that for two equivalent norms such thatXbecomes an STM and LLUM space the dominated farthest points problem has the same solution. We give some conditions such that under these conditions the Fréchet differentiability of the farthest point map is equivalent to the continuity of metric antiprojection in the dominated farthest points problem. Also we prove that these conditions are equivalent to strong solvability of the dominated farthest points problem. We prove these results in STM, reflexive STM, and UM spaces. Moreover, we give some applications of the stated results in Musielak-Orlicz spacesL ​ϕ(μ)andE ​ϕ(μ)over nonatomic measure spaces in terms of the functionϕ. We will prove that the Fréchet differentiability of the farthest point map and the conditionsϕ∈Δ2andϕ>0in reflexive Musielak-Orlicz function spaces are equivalent.
Asynchronous Gossip-Based Gradient-Free Method for Multiagent Optimization
Authors: Yuan Deming
Published: April 2014

This paper considers the constrained multiagent optimization problem. The objective function of the problem is a sum of convex functions, each of which is known by a specific agent only. For solving this problem, we propose an asynchronous distributed method that is based on gradient-free oracles and gossip algorithm. In contrast to the existing work, we do not require that agents be capable of computing the subgradients of their objective functions and coordinating their step size values as well. We prove that with probability 1 the iterates of all agents converge to the same optimal point of the problem, for a diminishing step size.
Low Concordance with the DASH Plan Is Associated with Higher Cardiovascular Risk in Treated Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Casanova M. A. , Medeiros F. , Oigman W. , Neves M. F.
Published: March 2014

This study aimed at analyzing the alimentary habits of treated hypertensive patients identifying the degree of concordance with Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) plan. Anthropometry and blood pressure (BP) were evaluated, and the 10-year risk for general cardiovascular disease was estimated and used to calculate vascular age. A DASH concordance score was obtained using food frequency questionnaire and the cut-off points were established for eight food groups. Subjects were divided into two groups according to the median of DASH concordance score: lower concordance (LC group < 4.5 points, n=33) and higher concordance (HC group ≥ 4.5 points, n=47). LC group was associated with higher BP, vascular age, and cardiovascular risk. DASH concordance score was positively correlated with intake of fiber, calcium, potassium, and magnesium (P<0.001) and negatively correlated with BP, cardiovascular risk, and vascular age (P<0.05). After logistic regression adjusted for age and gender, only cardiovascular risk (β=-0.154, P=0.031) was independently associated with DASH concordance score. Hypertensive patients with dietary patterns less concordant with the DASH plan had higher BP levels and increased cardiovascular risk, indicating the relevance of management in the treatment of these patients.
Vibration-Based Damage Detection in Beams by Cooperative Coevolutionary Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Boonlong Kittipong
Published: March 2014

Vibration-based damage detection, a nondestructive method, is based on the fact that vibration characteristics such as natural frequencies and mode shapes of structures are changed when the damage happens. This paper presents cooperative coevolutionary genetic algorithm (CCGA), which is capable for an optimization problem with a large number of decision variables, as the optimizer for the vibration-based damage detection in beams. In the CCGA, a minimized objective function is a numerical indicator of differences between vibration characteristics of the actual damage and those of the anticipated damage. The damage detection in a uniform cross-section cantilever beam, a uniform strength cantilever beam, and a uniform cross-section simply supported beam is used as the test problems. Random noise in the vibration characteristics is also considered in the damage detection. In the simulation analysis, the CCGA provides the superior solutions to those that use standard genetic algorithms presented in previous works, although it uses less numbers of the generated solutions in solution search. The simulation results reveal that the CCGA can efficiently identify the occurred damage in beams for all test problems including the damage detection in a beam with a large number of divided elements such as 300 elements.
Factors Affecting the Ability of the Stroke Survivor to Drive Their Own Recovery outside of Therapy during Inpatient Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Eng Xue Wen , Brauer Sandra G. , Kuys Suzanne S. , Lord Matthew , Hayward Kathryn S.
Published: March 2014

Aim. To explore factors affecting the ability of the stroke survivor to drive their own recovery outside of therapy during inpatient rehabilitation.Method. One-on-one, in-depth interviews with stroke survivors (n=7) and their main carer (n=6), along with two focus groups with clinical staff (n=20). Data was thematically analysed according to group.Results. Stroke survivors perceived “dealing with loss,” whilst concurrently “building motivation and hope” for recovery affected their ability to drive their own recovery outside of therapy. In addition, they reported a “lack of opportunities” outside of therapy, with subsequent time described as “dead and wasted.” Main carers perceived stroke survivors felt “out of control … at everyone’s mercy” and lacked knowledge of “what to do and why” outside of therapy. Clinical staff perceived the stroke survivor’s ability to drive their own recovery was limited by the lack of “another place to go” and the “passive rehab culture and environment.”Discussion. To enable the stroke survivor to drive their own recovery outside of therapy, there is a need to increase opportunities for practice and promote active engagement. Suggested strategies include building the stroke survivor’s motivation and knowledge, creating an enriched environment, and developing daily routines to provide structure outside of therapy time.
Effect of Aerobic Exercise Training on Chinese Population with Mild to Moderate Depression in Hong Kong
Authors: Ho Cassandra W. H. , Chan S. C. , Wong J. S. , Cheung W. T. , Chung Dicky W. S. , Lau Titanic F. O.
Published: March 2014

Background. Exercise has been suggested to be a viable treatment for depression. This study investigates the effect of supervised aerobic exercise training on depressive symptoms and physical performance among Chinese patients with mild to moderate depression in early in-patient phase.Methods. A randomized repeated measure and assessor-blinded study design was used. Subjects in aerobic exercise group received 30 minutes of aerobic training, five days a week for 3 weeks. Depressive symptoms (MADRS and C-BDI) and domains in physical performance were assessed at baseline and program end.Results. Subjects in aerobic exercise group showed a more significant reduction in depressive scores (MADRS) as compared to control (between-group mean difference = 10.08 ± 9.41;P=0.026) after 3 weeks training. The exercise group also demonstrated a significant improvement in flexibility (between-group mean difference = 4.4 ± 6.13;P=0.02).Limitations. There was lack of longitudinal followup to examine the long-term effect of aerobic exercise on patients with depression.Conclusions. Aerobic exercise in addition to pharmacological intervention can have a synergistic effect in reducing depressive symptoms and increasing flexibility among Chinese population with mild to moderate depression. Early introduction of exercise training in in-patient phase can help to bridge the gap of therapeutic latency of antidepressants during its nonresponse period.
Modeling the Impact of Climate Change on the Dynamics of Rift Valley Fever
Authors: Mpeshe Saul C. , Luboobi Livingstone S. , Nkansah-Gyekye Yaw
Published: March 2014

A deterministic SEIR model of rift valley fever (RVF) with climate change parameters was considered to compute the basic reproduction numberℛ0and investigate the impact of temperature and precipitation onℛ0. To study the effect of model parameters toℛ0, sensitivity and elasticity analysis ofℛ0were performed. When temperature and precipitation effects are not considered,ℛ0is more sensitive to the expected number of infectedAedesspp. due to one infected livestock and more elastic to the expected number of infected livestock due to one infectedAedesspp. When climatic data are used,ℛ0is found to be more sensitive and elastic to the expected number of infected eggs laid byAedesspp. via transovarial transmission, followed by the expected number of infected livestock due to one infectedAedesspp. and the expected number of infectedAedesspp. due to one infected livestock for both regions Arusha and Dodoma. These results call for attention to parameters regarding incubation period, the adequate contact rate ofAedesspp. and livestock, the infective periods of livestock andAedesspp., and the vertical transmission inAedesspecies.
Determination of Acid Dissociation Constants (pKa) of Bicyclic Thiohydantoin-Pyrrolidine Compounds in 20% Ethanol-Water Hydroorganic Solvent
Authors: Nural Yahya , Döndaş H. Ali , Sarı Hayati , Atabey Hasan , Belveren Samet , Gemili Müge
Published: March 2014

The acid dissociation constants of potential bioactive fused ring thiohydantoin-pyrrolidine compounds were determined by potentiometric titration in 20% (v/v) ethanol-water mixed at25±0.1°C, at an ionic background of 0.1 mol/L of NaCl using the HYPERQUAD computer program. Proton affinities of potential donor atoms of the ligands were calculated by AM1 and PM3 semiempiric methods. We found, potentiometrically, three different acid dissociation constants for1a–f. We suggest that these acid dissociation constants are related to the carboxyl, enol, and amino groups.
Two Classes of Almost Unbiased Type Principal Component Estimators in Linear Regression Model
Authors: Li Yalian , Yang Hu
Published: April 2014

This paper is concerned with the parameter estimator in linear regression model. To overcome the multicollinearity problem, two new classes of estimators called the almost unbiased ridge-type principal component estimator (AURPCE) and the almost unbiased Liu-type principal component estimator (AULPCE) are proposed, respectively. The mean squared error matrix of the proposed estimators is derived and compared, and some properties of the proposed estimators are also discussed. Finally, a Monte Carlo simulation study is given to illustrate the performance of the proposed estimators.
Reconciliation of Gene and Species Trees
Authors: Rusin L. Y. , Lyubetskaya E. V. , Gorbunov K. Y. , Lyubetsky V. A.
Published: March 2014

The first part of the paper briefly overviews the problem of gene and species trees reconciliation with the focus on defining and algorithmic construction of the evolutionary scenario. Basic ideas are discussed for the aspects of mapping definitions, costs of the mapping and evolutionary scenario, imposing time scales on a scenario, incorporating horizontal gene transfers, binarization and reconciliation of polytomous trees, and construction of species trees and scenarios. The review does not intend to cover the vast diversity of literature published on these subjects. Instead, the authors strived to overview the problem of the evolutionary scenario as a central concept in many areas of evolutionary research. The second part provides detailed mathematical proofs for the solutions of two problems: (i) inferring a gene evolution along a species tree accounting for various types of evolutionary events and (ii) trees reconciliation into a single species tree when only gene duplications and losses are allowed. All proposed algorithms have a cubic time complexity and are mathematically proved to find exact solutions. Solving algorithms for problem (ii) can be naturally extended to incorporate horizontal transfers, other evolutionary events, and time scales on the species tree.
Mathematical Model for the Selection of Processing Parameters in Selective Laser Sintering of Polymer Products
Authors: Pilipović Ana , Drstvenšek Igor , Šercer Mladen
Published: March 2014

Additive manufacturing (AM) is increasingly applied in the development projects from the initial idea to the finished product. The reasons are multiple, but what should be emphasised is the possibility of relatively rapid manufacturing of the products of complicated geometry based on the computer 3D model of the product. There are numerous limitations primarily in the number of available materials and their properties, which may be quite different from the properties of the material of the finished product. Therefore, it is necessary to know the properties of the product materials. In AM procedures the mechanical properties of materials are affected by the manufacturing procedure and the production parameters. During SLS procedures it is possible to adjust various manufacturing parameters which are used to influence the improvement of various mechanical and other properties of the products. The paper sets a new mathematical model to determine the influence of individual manufacturing parameters on the polymer product made by selective laser sintering. Old mathematical model is checked by statistical method with central composite plan and it is established that old mathematical model must be expanded with new parameter beam overlay ratio. Verification of new mathematical model and optimization of the processing parameters are made on SLS machine.
Dichotomous Effect of Caffeine, Curcumin, and Naringenin on Genomic DNA of Normal and Diabetic Subjects
Authors: Chattopadhyay Debarati , Somaiah Ashok , Raghunathan Divya , Thirumurugan Kavitha
Published: March 2014

Nutraceutical compounds show antioxidant and prooxidant properties under stress conditions like cancer, diabetes, and other diseases. The objective of this study is to find the dichotomic behavior of caffeine, curcumin, and naringenin on DNA of diabetic and normal subjects in the presence and absence of copper, hydrogen peroxide, and complex of copper-hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide releases hydroxyl free radicals (•OH) on oxidation of Cu (I) to Cu (II) through Fenton-type reaction to cause DNA damage. In the results, agarose gel electrophoretic pattern speculates the prooxidant effect of caffeine and antioxidant effect of curcumin on DNA in the presence of copper and hydrogen peroxide. UV-Vis spectral analysis shows hyperchromism on addition of DNA to caffeine, hypochromism with curcumin, and subtle changes with naringenin. The chosen nutraceuticals act as inducers and quenchers of oxidative free radicals arising from diabetes.
Reliablel2–l∞andH∞Control for Nonlinear Singular Systems via Dynamic Output Feedback
Authors: Li Lin , Kang Yuting
Published: March 2014

The reliablel2–l∞andH∞control for a class of Lipschitz nonlinear discrete-time singular systems with time delay is investigated via dynamic feedback control. The main goal of this paper is to design a generalized nonlinear controller such that, for possible actuator failures, the closed-loop system is regular, casual, and stable with a givenl2–l∞andH∞disturbance attenuation level being satisfied. Some sufficient conditions are obtained in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), and the controller design method is also proposed. Finally, a numerical example is included to illustrate the effectiveness of our proposed results.
Personalized Privacy-Preserving Frequent Itemset Mining Using Randomized Response
Authors: Sun Chongjing , Fu Yan , Zhou Junlin , Gao Hui
Published: March 2014

Frequent itemset mining is the important first step of association rule mining, which discovers interesting patterns from the massive data. There are increasing concerns about the privacy problem in the frequent itemset mining. Some works have been proposed to handle this kind of problem. In this paper, we introduce a personalized privacy problem, in which different attributes may need different privacy levels protection. To solve this problem, we give a personalized privacy-preserving method by using the randomized response technique. By providing different privacy levels for different attributes, this method can get a higher accuracy on frequent itemset mining than the traditional method providing the same privacy level. Finally, our experimental results show that our method can have better results on the frequent itemset mining while preserving personalized privacy.
The Continuing Care Model of Substance Use Treatment: What Works, and When Is “Enough,” “Enough?”
Authors: Proctor Steven L. , Herschman Philip L.
Published: March 2014

There is little disagreement in the substance use treatment literature regarding the conceptualization of substance dependence as a cyclic, chronic condition consisting of alternating episodes of treatment and subsequent relapse. Likewise, substance use treatment efforts are increasingly being contextualized within a similar disease management framework, much like that of other chronic medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, etc.). As such, substance use treatment has generally been viewed as a process comprised of two phases. Theoretically, the incorporation of some form of lower intensity continuing care services delivered in the context of outpatient treatment after the primary treatment phase (e.g., residential) appears to be a likely requisite if all stakeholders aspire to successful long-term clinical outcomes. Thus, the overarching objective of any continuing care model should be to sustain treatment gains attained in the primary phase in an effort to ultimately prevent relapse. Given the extant treatment literature clearly supports the contention that treatment is superior to no treatment, and longer lengths of stay is associated with a variety of positive outcomes, the more prudent question appears to be not whether treatment works, but rather what are the specific programmatic elements (e.g., duration, intensity) that comprise an adequate continuing care model. Generally speaking, it appears that the duration of continuing care should extend for a minimum of 3 to 6 months. However, continuing care over a protracted period of up to 12 months appears to be essential if a reasonable expectation of robust recovery is desired. Limitations of prior work and implications for routine clinical practice are also discussed.
Magnetic String with a NonlinearU(1)Source
Authors: Hendi S. H.
Published: April 2014

Considering the Einstein gravity in the presence of Born-Infeld type electromagnetic fields, we introduce a class of 4-dimensional static horizonless solutions which produce longitudinal magnetic fields. Although these solutions do not have any curvature singularity and horizon, there exists a conic singularity. We investigate the effects of nonlinear electromagnetic fields on the properties of the solutions and find that the asymptotic behavior of the solutions is adS. Next, we generalize the static metric to the case of rotating solutions and find that the value of the electric charge depends on the rotation parameter. Furthermore, conserved quantities will be calculated through the use of the counterterm method. Finally, we extend four-dimensional magnetic solutions to higher dimensional solutions. We present higher dimensional rotating magnetic branes with maximum rotation parameters and obtain their conserved quantities.
Meconium Indicators of Maternal Alcohol Abuse during Pregnancy and Association with Patient Characteristics
Authors: Goecke Tamme W. , Burger Pascal , Fasching Peter A. , Bakdash Abdulsallam , Engel Anne , Häberle Lothar , Voigt Franziska , Faschingbauer Florian , Raabe Eva , Maass Nicolai , Rothe Michael , Beckmann Matthias W. , Pragst Fritz , Kornhuber Johannes
Published: March 2014

Aim. Identification of women with moderate alcohol abuse during pregnancy is difficult. We correlated self-reported alcohol consumption during pregnancy and patient characteristics with objective alcohol indicators measured in fetal meconium.Methods. A total of 557 women singleton births and available psychological tests, obstetric data and meconium samples were included in statistical analysis. Alcohol metabolites (fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEEs) and ethyl glucuronide (EtG)), were determined from meconium and correlated with patient characteristics.Results. We found that 21.2% of the 557 participants admitted low-to-moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Of the parameters analyzed from meconium, only EtG showed an association with alcohol history (P<0.01). This association was inverse in cases with EtG value above 120 ng/g. These values indicate women with most severe alcohol consumption, who obviously denied having consumed alcohol during pregnancy. No other associations between socioeconomic or psychological characteristics and the drinking status (via meconium alcohol metabolites) could be found.Conclusion. Women who drink higher doses of ethanol during pregnancy, according to metabolite measures in meconium, might be less likely to admit alcohol consumption. No profile of socioeconomic or psychological characteristics of those women positively tested via meconium could be established.
Effects of Chlorophenoxy Herbicides and Their Main Transformation Products on DNA Damage and Acetylcholinesterase Activity
Authors: Benfeito Sofia , Silva Tiago , Garrido Jorge , Andrade Paula B. , Sottomayor M. J. , Borges Fernanda , Garrido E. Manuela
Published: March 2014

Persistent pesticide transformation products (TPs) are increasingly being detected among different environmental compartments, including groundwater and surface water. However, there is no sufficient experimental data on their toxicological potential to assess the risk associated with TPs, even if their occurrence is known. In this study, the interaction of chlorophenoxy herbicides (MCPA, mecoprop, 2,4-D and dichlorprop) and their main transformation products with calf thymus DNA by UV-visible absorption spectroscopy has been assessed. Additionally, the toxicity of the chlorophenoxy herbicides and TPs was also assessed evaluating the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity. On the basis of the results found, it seems that AChE is not the main target of chlorophenoxy herbicides and their TPs. However, the results found showed that the transformation products displayed a higher inhibitory activity when compared with the parent herbicides. The results obtained in the DNA interaction studies showed, in general, a slight effect on the stability of the double helix. However, the data found for 4-chloro-2-methyl-6-nitrophenol suggest that this transformation product can interact with DNA through a noncovalent mode.
Palliative Radiotherapy with or without Additional Care by a Multidisciplinary Palliative Care Team: A Retrospective Comparison
Authors: Nieder Carsten , Angelo Kent , Dalhaug Astrid , Pawinski Adam , Aandahl Gro , Haukland Ellinor , Engljähringer Kirsten
Published: March 2014

Purpose. To analyze pattern of care and survival after palliative radiotherapy (RT) in patients managed exclusively by regular oncology staff or a multidisciplinary palliative care team (MPCT) in addition. Methods. Retrospective analysis of 522 RT courses. Comparison of Two Groups: MPCT versus none. Results. We analyzed 140 RT courses (27%) with MPCT care and 382 without it. The following statistically significant differences were observed: 33% of female patients had MPCT care versus only 23% of male patients and 37% of patients <65 years had MPCT care versus only 22% of older patients. MPCT patients were more likely to have poor performance status and liver metastases. In the MPCT group steroid and opioid use was significantly more common. Dose-fractionation regimens were similar. Median survival was significantly shorter in the MPCT group, 3.9 versus 6.9 months. In multivariate analysis, MPCT care was not associated with survival. Adjusted for confounders, MPCT care reduced the likelihood of incomplete RT by 33%, P>0.05. Conclusions. Patterns of referral and care differed, for example, regarding age and medication use. It seems possible that MPCT care reduces likelihood of incomplete RT. Therefore, the impact of MPCT care on symptom control should be investigated and objective referral criteria should be developed.
2D‐DOA Estimation for Cylindrical Array with Mutual Coupling
Authors: Feng Hao , Liu Lutao , Wen Biyang
Published: March 2014

Most conventional direction‐of‐arrival (DOA) estimation algorithms are affected by the effect of mutual coupling, which make the performance of DOA estimation degrade. In this paper, a novel DOA estimation algorithm for conformal array in the presence of unknown mutual coupling is proposed. The special mutual coupling matrix (MCM) is applied to eliminate the effect of mutual coupling. With suitable array design, the decoupling between polarization parameter and angle information is accomplished. The two‐demission DOA (2D‐DOA) estimation is finally achieved based on estimation of signal parameters via rotational invariance techniques (ESPRIT). The proposed algorithm can be extended to conical conformal array as well. Two parameter pairing methods are illustrated for cylindrical and conical conformal array, respectively. The computer simulation verifies the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Decay of Potential Vortex and Diffusion of Temperature in a Generalized Oldroyd‐B Fluid through a Porous Medium
Authors: Guo Xiaoyi
Published: March 2014

Based on a modified Darcy law, the decay of potential vortex and diffusion of temperature in a generalized Oldroyd‐B fluid with fractional derivatives through a porous medium is studied. Exact solutions of the velocity and temperature fields are obtained in terms of the generalized Mittag‐Leffler function by using the Hankel transform and discrete Laplace transform of the sequential fractional derivatives. One of the solutions is the sum of the Newtonian solutions and the non‐Newtonian contributions. As limiting cases of the present solutions, the corresponding solutions of the fractional Maxwell fluid and classical Maxwell fluids are given. The influences of the fractional parameters, material parameters, and the porous space on the decay of the vortex are interpreted by graphical results.
The Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Personality
Authors: Montag Christian
Published: March 2014

The study of the biological basis of personality is a timely research endeavor, with the aim of deepening our understanding of human nature. In recent years, a growing body of research has investigated the role of the brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the context of individual differences across human beings, with a focus on personality traits. A large number of different approaches have been chosen to illuminate the role of BDNF for personality, ranging from the measurement of BDNF in the serum/plasma to molecular genetics to (genetic) brain imaging. The present review provides the reader with an overview of the current state of affairs in the context of BDNF and personality.
A Comparative Study between the Outcome of Primary Repair versus Loop Ileostomy in Ileal Perforation
Authors: Mittal Sushil , Singh Harnam , Munghate Anand , Singh Gurpreet , Garg Anjna , Sharma Jyoti
Published: March 2014

Introduction. Ileal perforation peritonitis is a common surgical emergency in the Indian subcontinent and in tropical countries. It is reported to constitute the fifth common cause of abdominal emergencies due to high incidence of enteric fever and tuberculosis in these regions.Methods. Sixty proven cases of ileal perforation patients admitted to Surgical Emergency were taken up for emergency surgery. Randomisation was done by senior surgeons by picking up card from both the groups. The surgical management was done as primary repair (group A) and loop ileostomy (group B).Results. An increased rate of postoperative complications was seen in group A when compared with group B with 6 (20%) patients landed up in peritonitis secondary to leakage from primary repair requiring reoperation as compared to 2 (6.67%) in ileostomy closure. A ratio of 1 : 1.51 days was observed between hospital stay of group A to group B.Conclusion. In cases of ileal perforation temporary defunctioning loop ileostomy plays an important role. We recommend that defunctioning ileostomy should be preferred over other surgical options in cases of ileal perforations. It should be recommended that ileostomy in these cases is only temporary and the extra cost and cost of management are not more than the price of life.
Free Vibration Response of a Frame Structural Model Controlled by a Nonlinear Active Mass Driver System
Authors: Venanzi Ilaria , Ubertini Filippo
Published: March 2014

Active control devices, such as active mass dampers, are mainly employed for the reduction of wind-induced vibrations in high-rise buildings, with the final aim of satisfying vibration serviceability limit state requirements and of meeting appropriate comfort criteria. When such active devices, normally operating under wind loads associated with short return periods, are subjected to seismic events, they can experience large amplitude vibrations and exceed stroke limits. This may lead to a reduced performance of the control system that can even worsen the performance of the whole structure. In this paper, a nonlinear control strategy based on a modified direct velocity feedback algorithm is proposed for handling stroke limits of an active mass driver (AMD) system. In particular, a suitable nonlinear braking term proportional to the relative AMD velocity is included in the control law in order to slowdown the device in the proximity of the stroke limits. Experimental and numerical free vibration tests are carried out on a scaled-down five-story frame structure equipped with an AMD to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Interval-Valued Optimization Problems Involvingα,ρ-Right Upper-Dini-Derivative Functions
Authors: Preda Vasile
Published: March 2014

We consider an interval-valued multiobjective problem. Some necessary and sufficient optimality conditions for weak efficient solutions are established under new generalized convexities with the tool-right upper-Dini-derivative, which is an extension of directional derivative. Also some duality results are proved for Wolfe and Mond-Weir duals.
Design of an Adaptive Distributed Critical-Care Extensive Response Network (AD-CERN) Using Cooperative Overlay Network
Authors: Akilandeswari V. , Mercy Shalinie S.
Published: March 2014

The main objective of this paper is to propose Adaptive Distributed Critical-Care Extensive Response Network (AD-CERN) which includes self-management and self-defense in the network. The proposed network has the following considerations. (1) Dynamic coevolution is elucidated with interaction between independent rational strategies and structure of overlay network. (2) Evolutionary Game Theory (EGT) specific to overlay network is adopted with the combination of network reciprocity and group selection mechanism. (3) The cooperative efficient network structure is put forth by the multinode link-formation game. In this network, each node will be trained independently based on Naïve Bayes classification algorithm to react against any critical services in the network. The proposed network's significant characteristics are self-learning, independent training, collaborative detection, reaction to critical services, protecting the target machine before being collapsed, and maintaining the network performance without any hindrances. It controls the flow of high rate critical services such as Distributed Denial of Services (DDoS) flooding attacks and blocks the unwarranted services without any interruption to legitimate users. Hence, there is no doubt that this self-managed and self-defensive system will move from realm of fiction to real-time network engineering with high detection accuracy (98.3%), classification rate up to 99%, and improved clustering coefficient.
Dynamic Performance Optimization for Cloud Computing Using M/M/m Queueing System
Authors: Guo Lizheng , Yan Tao , Zhao Shuguang , Jiang Changyuan
Published: March 2014

Successful development of cloud computing has attracted more and more people and enterprises to use it. On one hand, using cloud computing reduces the cost; on the other hand, using cloud computing improves the efficiency. As the users are largely concerned about the Quality of Services (QoS), performance optimization of the cloud computing has become critical to its successful application. In order to optimize the performance of multiple requesters and services in cloud computing, by means of queueing theory, we analyze and conduct the equation of each parameter of the services in the data center. Then, through analyzing the performance parameters of the queueing system, we propose the synthesis optimization mode, function, and strategy. Lastly, we set up the simulation based on the synthesis optimization mode; we also compare and analyze the simulation results to the classical optimization methods (short service time first and first in, first out method), which show that the proposed model can optimize the average wait time, average queue length, and the number of customer.
Influence of Gas Sort on the Nucleation Region Width of Si Nanocrystal Grains Prepared by Pulsed Laser Ablation
Authors: Deng Zechao , Chu Lizhi , Ding Xuecheng , Qin Aili , Fu Guangsheng , Wang Yinglong
Published: March 2014

We have calculated the nucleation region (NR) location of Si nanocrystal grains prepared by pulsed laser ablation (PLA) with fluence of 4 J/cm2 in 10 Pa gas at room temperature, and ambient gases were He, Ne, and Ar, respectively. Results of calculation indicated that NR width in Ne gas was narrowest, while it was widest in He gas. Maximum mean size of grains deposited on substrates under ablated spot, which were placed horizontally, was the smallest in Ne gas. It would be attribute to more effective energy transfer during the process of collision when atomic mass of Si and ambient gas Ne are more close to each other. In this work, an additional gas flow with the same element as ambient gas was introduced, which is vertical to the plume axis at different lateral positions above ablated spot.
Holographic Brownian Motion in Three-Dimensional Gödel Black Hole
Authors: Sadeghi J. , Pourasadollah F. , Vaez H.
Published: April 2014

By using the AdS/CFT correspondence and Gödel black hole background, we study the dynamics of heavy quark under a rotating plasma. In that case we follow Atmaja (2013) about Brownian motion in BTZ black hole. In this paper we receive some new results for the case ofα2l2≠1. In this case, we must redefine the angular velocity of string fluctuation. We obtain the time evolution of displacement square and angular velocity and show that it behaves as a Brownian particle in non relativistic limit. In this plasma, it seems that relating the Brownian motion to physical observables is rather a difficult work. But our results match with Atmaja work in the limitα2l2→1.
Preparation of Polyvinyl Alcohol/Xylan Blending Films with 1,2,3,4‐Butane Tetracarboxylic Acid as a New Plasticizer
Authors: Gao Cun-dian , Ren Jun-li , Wang Shuai-yang , Sun Run-cang , Zhao Li-hong
Published: March 2014

Miscible, biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/xylan blending films were firstly prepared in the range of the PVA/xylan weight ratio from 1 : 2 to 3 : 1 by casting method using 1,2,3,4‐butane tetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) as a new plasticizer. The properties of blending films as functions of PVA/xylan weight ratio and BTCA amount were discussed. XRD and FT‐IR were applied to characterize the blending films. Experimental results indicated that tensile strength (TS) and elongation at break (EAB) of blending films decreased along with the decrease of the PVA/xylan weight ratio. Both of TS and EAB firstly increased and then decreased as the amount of BTCA was increased. More importantly, blending films were biodegraded almost by 41% with an addition of 10% BTCA in blending films within 30 days in soil. For all hydroxyl functionalized polymers (xylan and PVA), their molecular interactions and miscibility with BTCA endowed blending films with the biocompatibility and biodegradability. Therefore, these blending films are environmentally friendly materials which could be applied as biodegradable plastics for food packaging and agricultural applications.
Preventative Effects of Caffeic Acid Phenyl Ester on Cadmium Intoxication Induced Hematological and Blood Coagulation Disturbances and Hepatorenal Damage in Rats
Authors: Ashour Tariq Helal
Published: March 2014

The preventative effect of caffeic acid phenyl ester (CAPE) against hematological, blood coagulation, and hepatorenal disturbances in cadmium (Cd) intoxication was investigated in rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into control group, Cd-group, and Cd + CAPE group. Cd intoxication was induced by intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) of CdCl2(1 mg/kg/day) for 21 days, and CAPE was daily given (10 micromol/kg; i.p.) for also 21 days. The results showed that Cd intoxication impaired hepatorenal function and significantly prolonged prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time and decreased fibrinogen level, red blood cells and platelets counts, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Interestingly, all these hematological, blood coagulation, and hepatorenal deteriorations of Cd toxicity were significantly prevented by CAPE. Additionally, CAPE significantly reversed the significant decreases in levels of total reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase and increases in levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances that were observed in the sera and liver and kidney homogenates of Cd group. It is concluded that CAPE is a promising compound that can counteract the hematological and blood coagulation disturbances, oxidative stress, and hepatorenal damages in Cd intoxication. However, further studies are crucially needed to improve this treatment in patients.
A Facile Stereoselective Total Synthesis of (R)-Rugulactone
Authors: Reddy B. Narasimha , Singh R. P.
Published: March 2014

An efficient and novel synthesis of (R)-rugulactone has been achieved employing Sharpless asymmetric epoxidation of allyl alcohols followed by selective hydride reduction of epoxy alcohols and olefin cross metathesis reactions.