bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Evolution and Hydrocarbon Potential of the Upper Paleozoic Northern Ordos Basin, North China
Authors: Minghui YANG , Liang LI , Jin ZHOU , Huichong JIA , Xiao SUN , Ting GONG , Chao DING
Published: October 2015

The hydrocarbon potential of the Hangjinqi area in the northern Ordos Basin is not well known, compared to the other areas of the basin, despite its substantial petroleum system. Restoration of a depth‐converted seismic profile across the Hangjinqi Fault Zone (HFZ) in the eastern Hangjinqi area shows one compression that created anticlinal structures in the Late Triassic, and two extensions in ∼Middle Jurassic and Late Early Cretaceous, which were interrupted by inversions in the Late Jurassic–Early Early Cretaceous and Late Cretaceous, respectively. Hydrocarbon generation at the well locations in the Central Ordos Basin (COB) began in the Late Triassic. Basin modeling of Well Zhao‐4 suggests that hydrocarbon generation from the Late Carboniferous–Early Permian coal measures of the northern Shanbei Slope peaked in the Early Cretaceous, predating the inversion in the Late Cretaceous. Most source rocks in the Shanbei Slope passed the main gas‐migration phase except for the Hangjinqi area source rocks (Well Jin‐48). Hydrocarbons generated from the COB are likely to have migrated northward toward the anticlinal structures and traps along the HFZ because the basin‐fill strata are dipping south. Faulting that continued during the extensional phase (Late Early Cretaceous) of the Hangjinqi area probably acted as conduits for the migration of hydrocarbons. Thus, the anticlinal structures and associated traps to the north of the HFZ might have trapped hydrocarbons that were charged from the Late Carboniferous–Early Permian coal measures in the COB since the Middle Jurassic.
Revision of the Genus Conophyllia d'Orbigny 1849 (Anthozoa, Scleractinia, Triassic) and Conophyllia from the Renacuo area of Gêrzê, Tibet
Authors: Jingfang BO , Xunlian WANG , Jinhan GAO , Genhou WANG , Shenglong LUO
Published: October 2015

There have been divergent opinions on whether Conophyllia develops synapticulae and dissepiments since its erection in 1849, with different views existing on the morphology of columella in Conophyllia. This paper presents a comprehensive review of Conophyllia, and revises the diagnosis according to new material from the Renacuo area of Gêrzê, Tibet. The revised diagnosis emphasises the following features: solitary coral; abundant radial elements subequal in thickness, lateral faces with granules and synapticulae; parietal, papillar or incompact columella, a few species lacking in columella; developed dissepiments. Individuals of Conophyllia have laminar septa of Triadophyllum type in earlier ontogenetic stages, while their septa in later ontogenetic stages are more fenestrate. The geological and geographical distribution of this genus is discussed, with five species of Conophyllia from the Renacuo area of Gêrzê, Tibet being described and illustrated, including one new species and two in open nomenclatue.
Age of the Purported Zhanjin Formation in Gêrzê County, Tibet: A New Understanding and Its Significance
Authors: Shenglong LUO , Genhou WANG , Jinhan GAO , Xunlian WANG , Hongji XIAO
Published: October 2015

The Upper Carboniferous Zhanjin Formation has attracted much attention from geoscientists for containing glacial–marine diamictite and cold‐water fauna typified by the bivalve Eurydesma. The presence of this Formation has provided important evidence for determining the northern border of Gondwana. Previous researchers have classified those strata north of Niangrong Co in the Gêrzê region as part of the Zhanjin Formation based on the presence of glacial–marine diamictite, although the absence of biological fossil evidence has defied clear age determination. Our field investigations first discovered large quantities of corals, sponges and bryozoans. All coral fossils were identified as belonging to the Hexacorallia subclass including 13 genera and 25 species, primarily including Conophyllia guiyangensis Deng et Kong, Coryphyllia regularis Cuif, Cuifia columnaris Roniewicz, Distichophyllia norica Freeh, Distichophyllia gigas Vinassa de Regny, Pamiroseris rectilamellosa Winkler, Retiophyllia clathrata Emmrich, and Retiophyllia paraclathrata Roniewicz. Extensive biostratigraphic correlations show that the hexacorallia should belong to the Late Triassic, thereby negating the presence of the Zhanjin Formation in the study area. Based on analyses of sedimentary facies and detailed study of the glacial–marine diamictite as supposed by earlier researchers, the limestone blocks and gravels within the facies are slope facies olistostromes and waterway sediments from lime slurry debris flows in the submarine fan rather than primary sedimentary products. Among them, lenticular sandstone should be sequentially distributed waterway sand bodies, indicating that the strata have no glacial–marine diamictite. In addition, the rocks containing the mentioned fossils are just limestone blocks from olistostromes, and limestone gravels from waterways of submarine fans. Such a result further negates the presence of the Zhanjin Formation in the study area, and indicates that the age of the studied strata should be youner than the Late Triassic. Through regional stratigraphic comparisons and the study of tectonic settings of the strata, the sedimentary characteristics of the subject strata, including lithology, lithofacies and fossils, are confirmed to be similar to the widely distributed Sêwa Formation in this region. We thus infer that the strata belong to the Middle–Lower Jurassic Sêwa Formation. This finding is important for both studying paleogeography of Tibet and determining the northern boundary of Gondwana.
Predictors of 10‐year smoking abstinence in smokers abstinent for 1 year after treatment
Authors: Álvarez Gutiérrez Francisco Javier , Ferrer Galván Marta , Ruiz Bernal Ana , Medina Gallardo Juan Francisco , Romero Romero Beatriz , Sáez Díaz Antonia , Romero Falcón Auxiliadora
Published: October 2015

Aims

To identify factors predicting long‐term relapse to smoking in people attending smoking treatment services who have maintained at least 1 year abstinence.

Design

Observational, prospective study with multiple logistic regression used to model predictors of relapse between 1 and 10 years from cessation using variables measured pre‐cessation.

Setting and participants

Among smokers receiving behavioural support for cessation in a clinic in Spain, in some cases with nicotine patches or bupropion, 366 had remained abstinent after 1 year of follow‐up and were included into the study.

Measurements

Predictive measures (disease history, psychological disorder, age of starting smoking, years of smoking, cigarette dependence and smoking cessation treatment used) were obtained at the time of the quit attempt, and ‘failure’ (defined as reported smoking, loss to follow‐up, died or an expired air carbon monoxide reading of > 5 parts per million) was assessed 10 years later.

Findings

At follow‐up, abstinence status was confirmed in 50.5% (n = 185) of participants, while 21.0% (n = 77) reported that they had resumed smoking, and 28.5% (n = 104) were lost to follow‐up (also counted as having resumed smoking). In the multiple regression model, the main factor that predicted relapse had a psychological disorder (odds ratio = 1.85, 95% confidence interval = 1.13–3.05; P < 0.02).

Conclusions

Having a psychological disorder at the time of stopping smoking is a risk factor for relapse to smoking, even after more than 1 year of abstinence.
POTENTIAL PARETO‐IMPROVING MOVE TOWARD MOST FAVORED NATION TARIFFS
Authors: Lahiri Sajal , Silva Peri
Published: October 2015

We use a multicountry asymmetric oligopolistic framework for segmented markets to study the welfare effects of reducing tariff discriminations—which we call a move toward Most Favored Nation tariffs. In our basic framework initial tariffs are arbitrary, and we consider unilateral reforms without and with reciprocity/retaliation. We extend the basic framework to allow for revenue constraints, unemployment, and the case where the initial tariffs are at Nash‐optimal levels. We also consider multilateral reforms in the last scenario. Conditions under which such harmonizations are potentially Pareto‐improving are derived and results compared across scenarios. Each scenario makes a significant difference to qualitative results. (JEL F10, F11, F13, H21, H3, H41)
Can Shareholder Litigation Discipline CEO Bonuses in the Financial Sector? The Role of Securities Class Actions
Authors: Dalla Pellegrina Lucia , Saraceno Margherita
Published: October 2015

There is evidence that, especially in the financial sector, CEOs are rewarded with very high bonuses. This phenomenon vividly contrasts with the alleged executive misbehaviour which fueled securities litigation during the recent financial turmoil. This paper empirically investigates the relationship between securities class actions (SCAs) and the growth of CEO bonuses in the period 1999–2010 for financial intermediaries included in the S&P500 index. An instrumental variable related to US Federal Courts’ Guidelines is exploited to address endogeneity issues. The analysis shows that SCAs are likely to moderate the dynamics of bonuses. This result supports the idea that private enforcement provided by securities litigation works as a complementarity tool of corporate governance aimed at ‘shielding’ small shareholders and other investors against inefficient risk undertaking which is in turn reflected in sizeable executive bonuses.
Organization of the dorsoventral musculature in the wings of the pteropod mollusc Clione limacina
Authors: Satterlie Richard A.
Published: October 2015

The wings of the pteropod mollusc Clione limacina provide forward propulsive force through flapping movements in which the wings bend throughout their length in both dorsal and ventral directions. The musculature of the wings includes oblique, striated muscle bundles that generate the swimming movements of the wings, longitudinal and transverse (smooth) muscle bundles that collapse the wings and pull them into the body during a wing withdrawal response, and dorsoventral muscles that control the thickness of the wings. All muscles act against a hydrostatic skeleton that forms a central hemocoelic space within the wings. Of these muscle types, all have been thoroughly described and studied except the dorsoventral muscles. The fortuitous discovery that the dorsoventral musculature can be intensely labeled with an antibody against the vertebrate hyperpolarization‐activated cation channel (HCN2) provided the opportunity to describe the organization of the dorsoventral musculature in detail. In addition, electrical recordings and microelectrode dye injections supported the immunohistochemical data, and provided preliminary data on the activity of the muscle fibers. The organization and activity of the dorsoventral musculature suggests it may be involved in regulation of wing stiffness during the change from slow to fast swimming.
MicroRNA expression and its implications for diagnosis and therapy of tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yu Xin , Li Zheng
Published: October 2015

Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) is the most common type of oral squamous cell carcinomas and is well known for its high rate of lymph nodal metastasis. Despite the identification of many molecular mechanisms in TSCC, the number of deaths associated with TSCC increased during the past 5 years. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a family of small non‐coding RNA molecules, which regulate gene expression by either translational inhibition or mRNA degradation. miRNAs have been proven to be key regulators of various biological and pathological processes including cell proliferation, development and tumourigenesis. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that the deregulated miRNAs are implicated in the diagnosis and treatment of TSCC. In this review, we summarized the expressions and roles of miRNAs in TSCC and comment on the potential roles of miRNAs in diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of this malignancy.
A Reduced-Order Model for Complex Modes of Brake Squeal Model and Its Application to a Flexible Pin-on-Disc System
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Wu Jun , Meng Dejian
Published: October 2015

Brake squeal is often analytically studied by a complex eigenvalue analysis of linearized models of the brake assembly that is usually quite large. In this paper, a method for determining those frequencies having the most effect on the pair of coupling frequencies that saves much time is put forward and a reduced-order model is presented based on the complex modes theory. The reduced-order model is proved to be effective when applied to a flexible pin-on-disc system; even damping and nonlinearity are taken into consideration. This reduced-order model can predict the onset of squeal as well as the squeal frequency with sufficient accuracy and largely reduced amount of calculation and gives us a practical guide to perform design optimization in order to reduce brake squeal.
Influence of Anodic Oxidation Parameters of TiO2 Nanotube Arrays on Morphology and Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyu , Zhu Yuxiang , Wang Yanfei , Zhu Liang , Yang Libin , Sha Zuoliang
Published: October 2015

Titanium dioxide nanotube arrays (TNTAs) were fabricated by electrochemical anodization of Ti foils. The effects of electrolyte, applied voltage, duration of anodic oxidation to morphology, and photocatalytic performance of TNTAs were investigated. TNTAs formed in electrolyte of glycol and DMSO tend to grow along radial direction with flimsy tube wall and weak adhesion on Ti substrate. Those in glycerol, however, easily achieve balance between growth
rate and corrosion rate, form orderly arranged array of nanotubes with uniform diameter, moderate length, and strong adhesiveness with substrates then. Although the photocatalytic activity of Rh B degradation on TNTAs prepared in glycol and DMSO is higher than those prepared in glycerol, their convenience of recycling and recovery shows the opposite. The optimality condition of anodic oxidation for TNTAs with good morphology and photocatalytic performance was present, which may have potential application in the synthesis of composite nanoarrays.
Effects of Exercise on Spinal Deformities and Quality of Life in Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Anwer Shahnawaz , Alghadir Ahmad , Abu Shaphe Md. , Anwar Dilshad
Published: October 2015

Objectives. This systematic review was conducted to examine the effects of exercise on spinal deformities and quality of life in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).Data Sources. Electronic databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, PEDro, and Web of Science, were searched for research articles published from the earliest available dates up to May 31, 2015, using the key words “exercise,” “postural correction,” “posture,” “postural curve,” “Cobb’s angle,” “quality of life,” and “spinal deformities,” combined with the Medical Subject Heading “scoliosis.”Study Selection. This systematic review was restricted to randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials on AIS published in English language. The quality of selected studies was assessed by the PEDro scale, the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation System (GRADE).Data Extraction. Descriptive data were collected from each study. The outcome measures of interest were Cobb angle, trunk rotation, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar kyphosis, vertebral rotation, and quality of life.Data Synthesis. A total of 30 studies were assessed for eligibility. Six of the 9 selected studies reached high methodological quality on the PEDro scale. Meta-analysis revealed moderate-quality evidence that exercise interventions reduce the Cobb angle, angle of trunk rotation, thoracic kyphosis, and lumbar lordosis and low-quality evidence that exercise interventions reduce average lateral deviation. Meta-analysis revealed moderate-quality evidence that exercise interventions improve the quality of life.Conclusions. A supervised exercise program was superior to controls in reducing spinal deformities and improving the quality of life in patients with AIS.
Wireless Passive Temperature Sensor Realized on Multilayer HTCC Tapes for Harsh Environment
Authors: Tan Qiulin , Ren Zhong , Cai Ting , Li Chen , Zheng Tingli , Li Sainan , Xiong Jijun
Published: October 2015

A wireless passive temperature sensor is designed on the basis of a resonant circuit, fabricated on multilayer high temperature cofired ceramic (HTCC) tapes, and measured with an antenna in the wireless coupling way. Alumina ceramic used as the substrate of the sensor is fabricated by lamination and sintering techniques, and the passive resonant circuit composed of a planar spiral inductor and a parallel plate capacitor is printed and formed on the substrate by screen-printing and postfiring processes. Since the permittivity of the ceramic becomes higher as temperature rises, the resonant frequency of the sensor decreases due to the increasing capacitance of the circuit. Measurements on the input impedance versus the resonant frequency of the sensor are achieved based on the principle, and discussions are made according to the exacted relative permittivity of the ceramic and quality factor (Q) of the sensor within the temperature range from 19°C (room temperature) to 900°C. The results show that the sensor demonstrates good high-temperature characteristics and wide temperature range. The average sensitivity of the sensor with good repeatability and reliability is up to 5.22 KHz/°C. It can be applied to detect high temperature in harsh environment.
In Vivo Targeted Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Endogenous Neural Stem Cells in the Adult Rodent Brain
Authors: Zhong Xiao-Mei , Zhang Fang , Yang Ming , Wen Xue-Hua , Zhang Xiang , Duan Xiao-Hui , Shen Jun
Published: October 2015

Neural stem cells in the adult mammalian brain have a significant level of neurogenesis plasticity. In vivo monitoring of adult endogenous NSCs would be of great benefit to the understanding of the neurogenesis plasticity under normal and pathological conditions. Here we show the feasibility of in vivo targeted MR imaging of endogenous NSCs in adult mouse brain by intraventricular delivery of monoclonal anti-CD15 antibody conjugated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. After intraventricular administration of these nanoparticles, the subpopulation of NSCs in the anterior subventricular zone and the beginning of the rostral migratory stream could be in situ labeled and were in vivo visualized with 7.0-T MR imaging during a period from 1 day to 7 days after the injection. Histology confirmed that the injected targeted nanoparticles were specifically bound to CD15 positive cells and their surrounding extracellular matrix. Our results suggest that in vivo targeted MR imaging of endogenous neural stem cells in adult rodent brain could be achieved by using anti-CD15-SPIONs as the molecular probe; and this targeting imaging strategy has the advantage of a rapid in vivo monitoring of the subpopulation of endogenous NSCs in adult brains.
The Impact of a Vestibular-Stimulating Exercise Regime on Postural Stability in People with Visual Impairment
Authors: Wiszomirska Ida , Kaczmarczyk Katarzyna , Błażkiewicz Michalina , Wit Andrzej
Published: October 2015

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of a vestibular-stimulating exercise regime on postural stability in individuals with visual impairment. The study group consisted of 70 people, including 28 persons (15 female and 13 male) with visual impairment and 42 (21 female and 21 male) without visual impairment. Each individual in the group with visual impairment was medically qualified for a 3-month training program. The research methodology included medical examination, anthropometric tests, and stabilometry tests on a Biodex Balance System SD (BBS). The tests were conducted twice: once before the start of training and again after 3 months of rehabilitation. The group with visual impairment showed significantly worse postural stability results than the control group for most of the stability parameters evaluated (OSI, APSI, and MLSI). Differences were noted between the groups with and without visual impairment for dynamic tests in women and for static tests in men. After training, the two groups showed roughly similar results for the stabilometry test with eyes closed. We conclude that exercises stimulating the vestibular system with head and body movements should be recommended for individuals with visual impairments to achieve better balance retention.
Recent Advances on Pathophysiology, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Insights in Cardiac Dysfunction Induced by Antineoplastic Drugs
Authors: Molinaro Marilisa , Ameri Pietro , Marone Giancarlo , Petretta Mario , Abete Pasquale , Di Lisa Fabio , De Placido Sabino , Bonaduce Domenico , Tocchetti Carlo G.
Published: October 2015

Along with the improvement of survival after cancer, cardiotoxicity due to antineoplastic treatments has emerged as a clinically relevant problem. Potential cardiovascular toxicities due to anticancer agents include QT prolongation and arrhythmias, myocardial ischemia and infarction, hypertension and/or thromboembolism, left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, and heart failure (HF). The latter is variable in severity, may be reversible or irreversible, and can occur soon after or as a delayed consequence of anticancer treatments. In the last decade recent advances have emerged in clinical and pathophysiological aspects of LV dysfunction induced by the most widely used anticancer drugs. In particular, early, sensitive markers of cardiac dysfunction that can predict this form of cardiomyopathy before ejection fraction (EF) is reduced are becoming increasingly important, along with novel therapeutic and cardioprotective strategies, in the attempt of protecting cardiooncologic patients from the development of congestive heart failure.
NC Machine Tools Fault Diagnosis Based on Kernel PCA andk-Nearest Neighbor Using Vibration Signals
Authors: Yuqing Zhou , Bingtao Sun , Fengping Li , Wenlei Song
Published: October 2015

This paper focuses on the fault diagnosis for NC machine tools and puts forward a fault diagnosis method based on kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) andk-nearest neighbor (kNN). A data-dependent KPCA based on covariance matrix of sample data is designed to overcome the subjectivity in parameter selection of kernel function and is used to transform original high-dimensional data into low-dimensional manifold feature space with the intrinsic dimensionality. ThekNN method is modified to adapt the fault diagnosis of tools that can determine thresholds of multifault classes and is applied to detect potential faults. An experimental analysis in NC milling machine tools is developed; the testing result shows that the proposed method is outperforming compared to the other two methods in tool fault diagnosis.
Improved Light Output Power of Chemically Transferred InGaN/GaN Light‐Emitting Diodes for Flexible Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Lee Ho-Jun , Min Jung-Wook , Lee Kye-Jin , Choi Kwang-Yong , Eum Jung-Hyun , Lee Dong-Kun , Bae Si-Young
Published: October 2015

Recent needs of semiconductor lighting sources have pursued diverse functionalities such as flexibility and transparency under high quantum efficiency. Inorganic/organic hybrid light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are one way to meet these requirements. Here, we report on flexible III‐nitride‐based LEDs and the improvement of their electrical and optical properties. To realize high light emission power and stable current operation, high‐quality epitaxy and elaborate chip processing were performed. The fabricated flexible LEDs showed over threefold optical output power compared to normal LEDs on Si and had comparable forward voltage and series resistances.
Extracellular Membrane Vesicles as Vehicles for Brain Cell-to-Cell Interactions in Physiological as well as Pathological Conditions
Authors: Schiera Gabriella , Di Liegro Carlo Maria , Di Liegro Italia
Published: October 2015

Extracellular vesicles are involved in a great variety of physiological events occurring in the nervous system, such as cross talk among neurons and glial cells in synapse development and function, integrated neuronal plasticity, neuronal-glial metabolic exchanges, and synthesis and dynamic renewal of myelin. Many of these EV-mediated processes depend on the exchange of proteins, mRNAs, and noncoding RNAs, including miRNAs, which occurs among glial and neuronal cells. In addition, production and exchange of EVs can be modified under pathological conditions, such as brain cancer and neurodegeneration. Like other cancer cells, brain tumours can use EVs to secrete factors, which allow escaping from immune surveillance, and to transfer molecules into the surrounding cells, thus transforming their phenotype. Moreover, EVs can function as a way to discard material dangerous to cancer cells, such as differentiation-inducing proteins, and even drugs. Intriguingly, EVs seem to be also involved in spreading through the brain of aggregated proteins, such as prions and aggregated tau protein. Finally, EVs can carry useful biomarkers for the early diagnosis of diseases. Herein we summarize possible roles of EVs in brain physiological functions and discuss their involvement in the horizontal spreading, from cell to cell, of both cancer and neurodegenerative pathologies.
The Association between Cerebral White Matter Lesions and Plasma Omega-3 to Omega-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Ratio to Cognitive Impairment Development
Authors: Suwa Michihiro , Yamaguchi Shigeru , Komori Tsuyoshi , Kajimoto Sachiko , Kino Masaya
Published: October 2015

Objective. Cerebral white matter hyperintensity (WMH) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has a potential for predicting cognitive impairment. Serum polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels are important for evaluating the extent of atherosclerosis. We investigated whether abnormal PUFA levels affected WMH grading and cognitive function in patients without significant cognitive impairment.Methods. Atherosclerotic risk factors, the internal carotid artery (ICA) plaque, and serum ratios of eicosapentaenoic to arachidonic acids (EPA/AA) and docosahexaenoic to arachidonic acids (DHA/AA) were assessed in 286 patients. The relationship among these risk factors, WMH, and cognitive function was evaluated using WMH grading and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).Results. The development of WMH was associated with aging, hypertension, ICA plaques, and a low serum EPA/AA ratio (<0.38, obtained as the median value) but was not related to dyslipidemia, diabetes, smoking, and a low serum DHA/AA ratio (<0.84, obtained as the median value). In addition, the MMSE score deteriorated slightly with the progression of WMH (29.7 ± 1.0 compared to 28.4 ± 2.1,P<0.0001).Conclusions. The progression of WMH was associated with a low serum EPA/AA ratio and accompanied minimal deterioration in cognitive function. Sufficient omega-3 PUFA intake may be effective in preventing the development of cognitive impairment.
Ameliorative Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Antioxidants and Sperm Characteristics in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rat Testes
Authors: Afifi Mohamed , Almaghrabi Omar A. , Kadasa Naif Mohammed
Published: October 2015

The present study investigated the impact of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) on the oxidative status and sperm characteristics in diabetic rat testicular tissue. Forty male albino rats were used in this study; 10 of them served as a control and 30 rats were injected with a single dose (100 mg/kg) of streptozotocin intraperitoneally. They were subdivided into diabetic, diabetic + ZnONPs (10 mg/kg B.W.), and diabetic and cotreated with ZnONPs + insulin groups. The sperm count and motility were assessed. The activity and mRNA expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GRD), and Glutathion-S-Transferase (GST) were determined in the testicular tissue. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were estimated in the testicular tissue. Sperm count and motility increased in ZnONPs treated diabetic rats. A significant increase in the activity and mRNA expression of SOD, CAT, GPx, GRD, and GST was shown in ZnONPs treated diabetic rats. MDA significantly decreased, while GSH increased in testicular tissue of ZnONPs treated diabetic rats. It was concluded that ZnONPs either alone or in combination with insulin have the ability to increase the sperm count and motility and protect the testicular tissue against the oxidative stress induced by diabetes in rats.
PI3K/AKT/mTOR/p70S6K Pathway Is Involved in Aβ25-35-Induced Autophagy
Authors: Fan Shengnuo , Zhang Bei , Luan Ping , Gu Beibei , Wan Qing , Huang Xiaoyun , Liao Wang , Liu Jun
Published: October 2015

Disruption or deregulation of the autophagy system has been implicated in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Aβplays an important role in this autophagic system. In many cases, autophagy is regulated by the phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin/p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase (PI3K/AKT/mTOR/p70S6K) signaling pathway. However, whether this signaling pathway is involved in Aβ-induced autophagy in neuronal cells is not known. Here, we studied whether Aβ25-35 induces autophagy in HT22 cells and C57 mice and investigated whether PI3K is involved in the autophagy induction. We found that Aβ25-35 inhibited HT22 cell viability in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Aβ25-35 induced autophagosome formation, the conversion of microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3), and the suppression of the mTOR pathway both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, Aβ25-35 impaired the learning abilities of C57 mice. Our study suggests that Aβ25-35 induces autophagy and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/p70S6K pathway is involved in the process, which improves our understanding of the pathogenesis of AD and provides an additional model for AD research.
Primary Adrenal Failure due to Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Sahin Murat , Oguz Ayten , Tuzun Dilek , Boysan Serife Nur , Mese Bülent , Sahin Hatice , Gul Kamile
Published: October 2015

Background. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) characterized by thrombosis and abortus may rarely cause primary adrenal failure.Case Presentations. A 34-year-old male presented with hypotension, hypoglycemia, hyperpigmentation on his skin and oral mucosa, scars on both legs, and loss of consciousness. In laboratory examinations, hyponatremia (135 mmol/L), hyperpotassemia (6 mmol/L), and thrombocytopenia (83 K/µL) were determined. Cortisol (1.91 µg/dL) and adrenocorticotropic (550 pg/mL) hormone levels were also evaluated. The patient was hospitalized with a diagnosis of acute adrenal crisis due to primary adrenal insufficiency. A Doppler ultrasound revealed venous thrombosis. The patient was diagnosed with antiphospholipid syndrome after the detection of venous thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, elevated aPTT, and anticardiolipin antibody levels. Anticoagulation treatment was started for antiphospholipid syndrome. The patient is now following up with hydrocortisone, fludrocortisone, and warfarin sodium.Conclusion. Antiphospholipid syndrome is a rare reason for adrenal failure. Antiphospholipid syndrome should be suspected if patients have morbidity secondary to venous-arterial thrombosis.
Copper Uptake in Mammary Epithelial Cells Activates Cyclins and Triggers Antioxidant Response
Authors: dos Santos Nathália Villa , Matias Andreza Cândido , Higa Guilherme Shigueto Vilar , Kihara Alexandre Hiroaki , Cerchiaro Giselle
Published: October 2015

The toxicologic effects of copper (Cu) on tumor cells have been studied during the past decades, and it is suggested that Cu ion may trigger antiproliferative effectsin vitro. However, in normal cells the toxicologic effects of high exposures of free Cu are not well understood. In this work, Cu uptake, the expression of genes associated with cell cycle regulation, and the levels of ROS production and related oxidative processes were evaluated in Cu-treated mammary epithelial MCF10A nontumoral cells. We have shown that the Cu additive is associated with the activation of cyclin D1 and cyclin B1, as well as cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2). These nontumor cells respond to Cu-induced changes in the oxidative balance by increase of the levels of reduced intracellular glutathione (GSH), decrease of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and accumulation during progression of the cell cycle, thus preventing the cell abnormal proliferation or death. Taken together, our findings revealed an effect that contributes to prevent a possible damage of normal cells exposed to chemotherapeutic effects of drugs containing the Cu ion.
Suitability of Aquatic Plant Fibers for Handmade Papermaking
Authors: Bidin Nordiah , Zakaria Muta Harah , Bujang Japar Sidik , Abdul Aziz Nur Aznadia
Published: October 2015

Increasing concerns for future fiber supplies in pulp and paper industries has shifted interest in nonwood sources from agriculture residues and aquatic plants. Aquatic plants with short growth cycles, in abundance, and with low lignin are a potential fiber source. Five aquatic plant species,Cyperus digitatus, Cyperus halpan, Cyperus rotundus, Scirpus grossus, andTypha angustifolia, were examined for fiber dimensions and chemical composition (cellulose, lignin) and compared with other nonwood plants. All aquatic plants possessed short (length, 0.71–0.83 mm) and thin (diameter, 9.13–12.11 µm) fibers, narrow lumen (diameter, 4.32–7.30 µm), and thin cell wall (thickness, 2.25–2.83 µm) compared with most other nonwood plants. Slenderness ratio ranged from 73.77 to 89.34 withTypha angustifoliahaving the highest ratio. Except forScirpus grossus, the flexibility coefficient ranged from 52.91 to 58.08.Scirpus grossushas low Runkel ratio, 0.84 ± 0.17. Fiber characteristics, short and thin fibers, Slenderness ratio >60, flexibility coefficient within 50–75, and Runkel ratio <1, are suitable for papermaking. Cellulose content ofCyperus rotundus(42.58 ± 1.32%),Scirpus grossus(36.21 ± 2.81%), andTypha angustifolia(44.05 ± 0.49%) >34% is suitable for pulp and papermaking. Lignin content in aquatic plants in the present study ranged 9.54–20.04% and below the wood lignin content of <23–30% encountered in pulp and papermaking. Handmade paper sheets produced for paperboard, craft, and decorative purposes are with permissible tensile strength, breaking length, and low moisture content.
Research and Application of FTA and Petri Nets in Fault Diagnosis in the Pantograph-Type Current Collector on CRH EMU Trains
Authors: Song Long-long , Wang Tai-yong , Song Xiao-wen , Xu Lei , Song De-gang
Published: October 2015

A fault tree is established based on structural analysis, working principle analysis, and failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) of the pantograph-type current collector on the Chinese Rail High-Speed Electric Multiple Unit (CRH EMU) train. To avoid the deficiencies of fault tree analysis (FTA), Petri nets modelling is used to address the problem of data explosion and carry out dynamic diagnosis. Relational matrix analysis is used to solve the minimal cut set equation of the fault tree. Based on the established state equation of the Petri nets, initial tokens and enable-transfer algorithms are used to express the fault transfer process mathematically and improve the efficiency of fault diagnosis inferences. Finally, using a practical fault diagnosis example for the pantographs on CRH EMU trains, the proposed method is proved to be reasonable and effective.
CC-PSM: A Preference-Aware Selection Model for Cloud Service Based on Consumer Community
Authors: Wang Yan , Zhou Jian-tao , Tan Hong-yan
Published: October 2015

In order to give full consideration to the consumer’s personal preference in cloud service selection strategies and improve the credibility of service prediction, a preference-aware cloud service selection model based on consumer community (CC-PSM) is presented in this work. The objective of CC-PSM is to select a service meeting a target consumer’s demands and preference. Firstly, the correlation between cloud consumers from a bipartite network for service selection is mined to compute the preference similarity between them. Secondly, an improved hierarchical clustering algorithm is designed to discover the consumer community with similar preferences so as to form the trusted groups for service recommendation. In the clustering process, a quantization function called community degree is given to evaluate the quality of community structure. Thirdly, a prediction model based on consumer community is built to predict a consumer’s evaluation on an unknown service. The experimental results show that CC-PSM can effectively partition the consumers based on their preferences and has good effectiveness in service selection applications.
The Parameters Optimization of MCR-WPT System Based on the Improved Genetic Simulated Annealing Algorithm
Authors: Lu Sheng , Zuo Chenyang , Piao Changhao
Published: October 2015

To solve the problem of parameter selection during the design of magnetically coupled resonant wireless power transmission system (MCR-WPT), this paper proposed an improved genetic simulated annealing algorithm. Firstly, the equivalent circuit of the system is analysis in this study and a nonlinear programming mathematical model is built. Secondly, in place of the penalty function method in the genetic algorithm, the selection strategy based on the distance between individuals is adopted to select individual. In this way, it reduces the excess empirical parameters. Meanwhile, it can improve the convergence rate and the searching ability by calculating crossover probability and mutation probability according to the variance of population’s fitness. At last, the simulated annealing operator is added to increase local search ability of the method. The simulation shows that the improved method can break the limit of the local optimum solution and get the global optimum solution faster. The optimized system can achieve the practical requirements.
Latency Improvement Strategies for Reliability-Aware Scheduling in Industrial Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Dobslaw Felix , Zhang Tingting , Gidlund Mikael
Published: October 2015

We propose novel strategies for end-to-end reliability-aware scheduling in Industrial Wireless Sensor Networks (IWSNs). Because of stringent reliability requirements in industrial applications where missed packets may have disastrous or lethal consequences, all IWSN communication standards are based on Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), allowing for deterministic channel access on the MAC layer. We therefore extend an existing generic and scalable reliability-aware scheduling approach by the name of SchedEx. SchedEx has proven to quickly produce TDMA schedules that guarantee a user-defined end-to-end reliability levelρ_for all multihop communication in a WSN. Moreover, SchedEx executes orders of magnitude faster than recent algorithms in the literature while producing schedules with competitive latencies. We generalize the original problem formulation from single-channel to multichannel scheduling and propose a scalable integration into the existing SchedEx approach. We further introduce a novel optimal bound that produces TDMA schedules with latencies around 20% shorter than the original SchedEx algorithm. Combining the novel strategies with multiple sinks, multiple channels, and the introduced optimal bound, we could through simulations verify latency improvements by almost an order of magnitude, reducing the TDMA superframe execution times from tens of seconds to seconds only, which allows for a utilization of SchedEx for many time-critical control applications.
T Helper Subsets, Peripheral Plasticity, and the Acute Phase Protein,α1-Antitrypsin
Authors: Baranovski Boris M. , Freixo-Lima Gabriella S. , Lewis Eli C. , Rider Peleg
Published: October 2015

The traditional model of T helper differentiation describes the naïve T cell as choosing one of several subsets upon stimulation and an added reciprocal inhibition aimed at maintaining the chosen subset. However, to date, evidence is mounting to support the presence of subset plasticity. This is, presumably, aimed at fine-tuning adaptive immune responses according to local signals. Reprograming of cell phenotype is made possible by changes in activation of master transcription factors, employing epigenetic modifications that preserve a flexible mode, permitting a shift between activation and silencing of genes. The acute phase response represents an example of peripheral changes that are critical in modulating T cell responses.α1-antitrypsin (AAT) belongs to the acute phase responses and has recently surfaced as a tolerogenic agent in the context of adaptive immune responses. Nonetheless, AAT does not inhibit T cell responses, nor does it shutdown inflammation per se; rather, it appears that AAT targets non-T cell immunocytes towards changing the cytokine environment of T cells, thus promoting a regulatory T cell profile. The present review focuses on this intriguing two-way communication between innate and adaptive entities, a crosstalk that holds important implications on potential therapies for a multitude of immune disorders.
A Comprehensive Review on Cyclodextrin-Based Carriers for Delivery of Chemotherapeutic Cytotoxic Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Gidwani Bina , Vyas Amber
Published: October 2015

Most of the cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents have poor aqueous solubility. These molecules are associated with poor physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties, which makes the formulation difficult. An important approach in this regard is the use of combination of cyclodextrin and nanotechnology in delivery system. This paper provides an overview of limitations associated with anticancer drugs, their complexation with cyclodextrins, loading/encapsulating the complexed drugs into carriers, and various approaches used for the delivery. The present review article aims to assess the utility of cyclodextrin-based carriers like liposomes, niosomes, nanoparticles, micelles, millirods, and siRNA for delivery of antineoplastic agents. These systems based on cyclodextrin complexation and nanotechnology will camouflage the undesirable properties of drug and lead to synergistic or additive effect. Cyclodextrin-based nanotechnology seems to provide better therapeutic effect and sustain long life of healthy and recovered cells. Still, considerable study on delivery system and administration routes of cyclodextrin-based carriers is necessary with respect to their pharmacokinetics and toxicology to substantiate their safety and efficiency. In future, it would be possible to resolve the conventional and current issues associated with the development and commercialization of antineoplastic agents.
Evolution Balancing of the Small-Sized Wheel Loader Assembly Line
Authors: Lai Rongshen , Hou Liang , Wu Yongming
Published: October 2015

Assembly line balancing not only directly determines production efficiency but also influences precision and quality of key assemblies or even the overall performance of final products. Driven by market demand and development of science and technology, product family must evolve constantly, which necessitates frequent adjustment and rebalancing of product family assembly line (PFAL). In order to maintain production efficiency, improve assembly quality and precision, and reduce costs for adjustment, the evolution balancing problem of PFAL for small-sized wheel loader is solved in this paper. Firstly, the evolution balancing model of PFAL is put forward. Then, with minimizing the number of workstations, the in-station and between-station load indexes and adjustment costs, and maximizing relevancy between activities as optimization objectives, meanwhile regarding product platform planning, modularity design and the critical chain technology in concurrent engineering as constraint conditions, the evolution balancing problem of PFAL is optimized using improved genetic algorithm (IGA). Finally, the whole analysis procedure is demonstrated by the small-sized wheel loader PFAL case study and the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified.
A New Resources Provisioning Method Based on QoS Differentiation and VM Resizing in IaaS
Authors: Hu Rongdong , Liu Guangming , Jiang Jingfei , Wang Lixin
Published: October 2015

In order to improve the host energy efficiency in IaaS, we proposed an adaptive host resource provisioning method, CoST, which is based on QoS differentiation and VM resizing. The control model can adaptively adjust control parameters according to real time application performance, in order to cope with changes in load. CoST takes advantage of the fact that different types of applications have different sensitivity degrees to performance and cost. It places two different types of VMs on the same host and dynamically adjusts their sizes based on the load forecasting and QoS feedback. It not only guarantees the performance defined in SLA, but also keeps the host running in energy-efficient state. Real Google cluster trace and host power data are used to evaluate the proposed method. Experimental results show that CoST can provide performance-sensitive application with a steady QoS and simultaneously speed up the overall processing of performance-tolerant application by 20~66%. The host energy efficiency is significantly improved by 7~23%.
Stability Analysis of Train Movement with Uncertain Factors
Authors: Ye JingJing , Li KePing , Jiang XueDong
Published: October 2015

We propose a new traffic model which is based on the traditional OV (optimal velocity) car-following model. Here, some realistic factors are regarded as uncertain quantity, such as the headway distance. Our aim is to analyze and discuss the stability of car-following model under the constraint of uncertain factors. Then, according to the principle of expected value in fuzzy theory, an improved OV traffic model is constructed. Simulation results show that our proposed model can avoid collisions effectively under uncertain environment, and its stability can also be improved. Moreover, we discuss its stability as some parameters change, such as the relaxation time.
Nonlinear Constrained Adaptive Backstepping Tracking Control for a Hypersonic Vehicle with Uncertainty
Authors: Zou Qin , Wang Fang , Zong Qun
Published: October 2015

The control problem of a flexible hypersonic vehicle is presented, where input saturation and aerodynamic uncertainty are considered. A control-oriented model including aerodynamic uncertainty is derived for simple controller design due to the nonlinearity and complexity of hypersonic vehicle model. Then it is separated into velocity subsystem and altitude subsystem. On the basis of the integration of robust adaptive control and backstepping technique, respective controller is designed for each subsystem, where an auxiliary signal provided by an additional dynamic system is used to compensate for the control saturation effect. Then to deal with the “explosion of terms” problem inherent in backstepping control, a novel first-order filter is proposed. Simulation results are included to demonstrate the effectiveness of the adaptive backstepping control scheme.
Peer Support and Psychosocial Pain Management Strategies for Children with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Nabors Laura , Ige Teminijesu John , Fevrier Bradley
Published: October 2015

This paper reviews information on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in children. Children with this chronic illness often experience pain related to their condition. They also can experience social isolation. This paper reviews psychosocial information on peer support and cognitive behavioral pain management strategies. The information presented in this paper provides new insights for health professionals assisting children and families in coping with psychological facets of this disease. Research focusing on ways by which peers and friends can support the child’s use of psychological pain management strategies will provide new information for the literature.