bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Equilibrium statistical–thermal models in high-energy physics
Authors: Tawfik Abdel Nasser
Published: May 2014

We review some recent highlights from the applications of statistical–thermal models to different experimental measurements and lattice QCD thermodynamics that have been made during the last decade. We start with a short review of the historical milestones on the path of constructing statistical–thermal models for heavy-ion physics. We discovered that Heinz Koppe formulated in 1948, an almost complete recipe for the statistical–thermal models. In 1950, Enrico Fermi generalized this statistical approach, in which he started with a general cross-section formula and inserted into it, the simplifying assumptions about the matrix element of the interaction process that likely reflects many features of the high-energy reactions dominated by density in the phase space of final states. In 1964, Hagedorn systematically analyzed the high-energy phenomena using all tools of statistical physics and introduced the concept of limiting temperature based on the statistical bootstrap model. It turns to be quite often that many-particle systems can be studied with the help of statistical–thermal methods. The analysis of yield multiplicities in high-energy collisions gives an overwhelming evidence for the chemical equilibrium in the final state. The strange particles might be an exception, as they are suppressed at lower beam energies. However, their relative yields fulfill statistical equilibrium, as well. We review the equilibrium statistical–thermal models for particle production, fluctuations and collective flow in heavy-ion experiments. We also review their reproduction of the lattice QCD thermodynamics at vanishing and finite chemical potential. During the last decade, five conditions have been suggested to describe the universal behavior of the chemical freeze-out parameters. The higher order moments of multiplicity have been discussed. They offer deep insights about particle production and to critical fluctuations. Therefore, we use them to describe the freeze-out parameters and suggest the location of the QCD critical endpoint. Various extensions have been proposed in order to take into consideration the possible deviations of the ideal hadron gas. We highlight various types of interactions, dissipative properties and location-dependences (spatial rapidity). Furthermore, we review three models combining hadronic with partonic phases; quasi-particle model, linear sigma model with Polyakov potentials and compressible bag model.
Composite particles within the Faddeev–Jackiw framework: Nonequivalence between the Dirac and Faddeev–Jackiw formalisms
Authors: Manavella Edmundo C.
Published: May 2014

Some time ago, the Faddeev–Jackiw canonical quantization formalism for constrained systems with Grassmann dynamical variables in the field theory context was reviewed. In the present work, the resulting formalism is applied to a classical nonrelativistic U(1) ×U(1) gauge field model that describes the electromagnetic interaction of composite particles in 2+1 dimensions. The model contains a Chern–Simons U(1) field and the electromagnetic field, and it uses either a composite boson system or a composite fermion one. The obtained results are compared with the ones corresponding to the implementation of the Dirac formalism to this model, concluding that the Faddeev–Jackiw and Dirac methods cannot be considered equivalent. A simplified version of the above model is analyzed in the same way, similar to the one used within the framework of condensed matter. In this case, it is observed that when the results obtained by the Faddeev–Jackiw and Dirac methods coincide, the first method is more economical than the second one. For both models, the composite fermion case is explicitly considered.
Casimir force-induced instability in freestanding nanotweezers and nanoactuators made of cylindrical nanowires
Authors: Farrokhabadi Amin , Abadian Naeimeh , Kanjouri Faramarz , Abadyan Mohamadreza
Published: May 2014

The quantum vacuum fluctuation i.e., Casimir attraction can induce mechanical instability in ultra-small devices. Previous researchers have focused on investigating the instability in structures with planar or rectangular cross-section. However, to the best knowledge of the authors, no attention has been paid for modeling this phenomenon in the structures made of nanowires with cylindrical geometry. In this regard, present work is dedicated to simulate the Casimir force-induced instability of freestanding nanoactuator and nanotweezers made of conductive nanowires with circular cross-section. To compute the quantum vacuum fluctuations, two approaches i.e., the proximity force approximation (for small separations) and scattering theory approximation (for large separations), are considered. The Euler-beam model is employed, in conjunction with the size-dependent modified couple stress continuum theory, to derive governing equations of the nanostructures. The governing nonlinear equations are solved via three different approaches, i.e., using lumped parameter model, modified variation iteration method (MVIM) and numerical solution. The deflection of the nanowire from zero to the final stable position is simulated as the Casimir force is increased from zero to its critical value. The detachment length and minimum gap, which prevent the instability, are computed for both nanosystems.
A NEW ENERGY-EFFICIENT NEIGHBOR DISCOVERY AND LOAD BALANCING PROTOCOL FOR MOBILE SENSOR NETWORKS
Authors: OUNI RIDHA , AL-DHELAAN ABDULLAH , LOUATI RAFIK
Published: May 2014

The wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are formed by a large number of sensor nodes working together to provide a specific duty. However, the low energy capacity assigned to each node prompts users to look at an important design challenge which is lifetime maximization. Especially the availability of nodes, the sensor coverage, and the connectivity have been included in discussions on network lifetime. Therefore, designing effective techniques that conserve scarce energy resources is a critical issue in WSNs. In this regard, we are interested in developing various mechanisms to save energy based on the constraints involved for energy consumption in WSNs. Three mechanisms are proposed to reduce the number of control packets responsible for path discovery, optimize diffusion area, and balance the load distribution in the network.
SYNCHRONIZATION OF VILNIUS CHAOTIC OSCILLATORS WITH ACTIVE AND PASSIVE CONTROL
Authors: KOCAMAZ UĞUR ERKİN , UYAROĞLU YILMAZ
Published: May 2014

In this study, active and passive control techniques are applied for the synchronization of two identical Vilnius chaotic oscillators. The differential equations of Vilnius oscillator are described according to its circuit model. Based on Lyapunov function, the active and passive controllers are used to realize the synchronization of Vilnius chaotic systems. Numerical simulations are presented to verify and compare the effectiveness of proposed control techniques.
Variable Speed Running on Kneed Biped Robot with Underactuation Degree Two
Authors: Yi Yang , Lin Zhiyun , Yan Gangfeng
Published: May 2014

This paper presents control strategies for speed regulation on a running kneed biped with underactuation degree two. The robot under consideration has passive compliant knees and a unique hip actuator. In order to achieve variable speed running, a set of desired gaits (each at a different speed) is designed with the controlled Lagrangian method for the under-actuated robot. Then an event-based control law is applied to stabilize the running gait according to the running speed specification, and an energy shaping control is added to enlarge the domain of attraction as well as improve the convergence rate. At last a transitional control law is developed for smooth transitions between different running gaits. The effectiveness of our approach is verified by numerical simulations.
Anchoring Growth: The Importance of Productivity-Enhancing Reforms in Emerging Market and Developing Economies
Authors: Dabla-Norris Era , Ho Giang , Kochhar Kalpana , Kyobe Annette , Tchaidze Robert
Published: May 2014

This paper examines the supply side drivers of growth in emerging market and developing economics (EMDEs) during the past decades and discusses the role of productivity-enhancing reforms in bolstering future growth prospects. It examines aggregate and sectoral productivity trends including around reform episodes to draw broad policy lessons on what policies are needed to increase productivity. Findings suggest appropriate policies need to be tailored to the stage of economic development and to other pertinent features that give rise to the heterogeneous experiences of EMDEs.
Bank Lending Margins in China and the Effects of the June 2012 Liberalization
Authors: Burdekin Richard C. K. , Tao Ran
Published: May 2014

Financial liberalization in China has begun to allow more flexibility in bank interest rate setting but may threaten bank profit margins. This paper documents the initial response to the June 2012 initiative that, for the first time, allowed Chinese banks to meaningfully depart from the benchmark rates laid down by the People's Bank. We use an event study to assess the initial effects on bank share prices and compare the response of the larger state-owned banks to the smaller commercial banks. We identify significant reactions in both the Shanghai and Hong Kong markets.
Trade Facilitation Provisions in Regional Trade Agreements: Traits and Trends
Authors: Neufeld Nora
Published: May 2014

The paper first surveys the trade facilitation (TF) landscape at the regional level and analyzes the main forces shaping it. It identifies key factors driving regional facilitation approaches, examining their priorities, features and underlying philosophies. The paper also highlights significant trends in regional TF provisions and analyzes their implications. The paper then compares regional and multilateral initiatives, looking at areas of convergence and divergence, and highlighting where potential gaps exist. It analyzes negotiating positions in the respective frameworks and discusses both the benefits and limitations of the resulting TF provisions. Examining the impact of the recently concluded WTO Agreement, the study highlights its potential value added.
Energy Expenditure of Three Public and Three Home-based Active Video Games in Children
Authors: Simons Monique , Vries Sanne I. de , Jongert Tinus , Verheijden Marieke W.
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this study was to assess the energy expenditure (EE) experienced by children when playing six active video games, which can be used in a home environment and in a public setting (e.g. game center), and to evaluate whether the intensity of playing these games can meet the threshold for moderate-intensity physical activity, which is set at an EE equivalent to three times resting metabolic rate. Children are recommended to be physically active at a moderate intensity for at least one hour a day.
Customer-oriented diagnosis of memory provisioning for IaaS clouds
Authors: Pfitscher Ricardo J. , Pillon Mauricio A. , Obelheiro Rafael R.
Published: May 2014

Infrastructure-as-a-service clouds enable customers to use computing resources in a flexible manner to satisfy their needs, and pay only for the allocated resources. One challenge for IaaS customers is the correct provisioning of their resources. Many users end up underprovisioning, hurting application performance, or overprovisioning, paying for resources that are not really necessary. Memory is an essential resource for any computing system, and is frequently a nperformance-limiting factor in cloud environments. In this work, we propose a model that enables cloud customers to determine whether the memory allocated to their virtual machines is correctly provisioned, underprovisioned, or overprovisioned. The model uses two metrics collected inside a VM, resident and committed memory, and defines thresholds for these metrics that characterize each provisioning level. Experimental results with Linux guests on Xen, running four benchmarks with different workloads and varying memory capacity, show that the model was able to accurately diagnose memory provisioning in 98% of the scenarios evaluated.
Towards efficient, portable application-level consistency
Authors: Pillai Thanumalayan Sankaranarayana , Chidambaram Vijay , Hwang Joo-Young , Arpaci-Dusseau Andrea C. , Arpaci-Dusseau Remzi H.
Published: May 2014

Applications employ complex protocols to ensure consistency after system crashes. Such protocols are affected by the exact behavior of file systems. However, modern file systems vary widely in such behavior, reducing the correctness and performance of applications. In this paper, we study application-level crash consistency. Through the detailed study of two popular database libraries (SQLite, LevelDB), we show that application performance and correctness heavily depend on file-system properties previously ignored in research. We define a number of such properties and show that they vary widely among file systems. We conclude with implications for future file-system and dependability research.
Cooperative control architecture of fan-less servers and fresh-air cooling in container servers for low power operation
Authors: Endo Hiroshi , Kodama Hiroyoshi , Fukuda Hiroyuki , Sugimoto Toshio , Horie Takashi , Kondo Masao
Published: May 2014

In order to minimize the container server power consumption, a new cooling system that incorporates fan-less servers and freshair cooling is proposed. In a conventional container data center, the required air flow for sever cooling is supplied by both server built-in fans and container facility fans. Therefore, this work has been carried out on fan-less servers to reduce power consumption. Although fanless servers are expected to reduce power consumption, facility fans have to provide excessive air to secure a safe operation of servers. In order to achieve optimized air-flow from facility fans to cool fan-less servers, a power saving control system incorporating the IT system and cooling facilities is proposed. Here, facility fans are controlled based on server information such as CPU temperature, rack position and so on. Through this study, we suggest that the minimum point in total power consumption of the container server with no performance penalty existed by the trade-off relationship between the power consumption changes of servers and of facility fans with CPU temperature. This enables us to operate the server system with minimized power consumption depending on the air temperature. To verify the energy-saving effect of this technology, a prototype container server with the proposed system was constructed. As a result, 22.8% energy saving was achieved with this new system, compared with the conventional container servers with built-in fans.
No more electrical infrastructure
Authors: Riekstin Ana Carolina , James Sean , Kansal Aman , Liu Jie , Peterson Eric
Published: May 2014

We consider the use of fuel cells for powering data centers, based on benefits in reliability, capital and operational costs, and reduced environmental emissions. Using fuel cells effectively in data centers introduces several challenges and we highlight key research questions for designing a fuel cell based data center power distribution system. We analyze a specific configuration in the design space to quantify the cost benefits for a large scale data center, for the most mature and commonly deployed fuel cell technology, achieving over 20% reduction in costs using conservative projections.
Mobile multicores
Authors: Carroll Aaron , Heiser Gernot
Published: May 2014

Energy management is a primary consideration in the design of modern smartphones, made more interesting by the recent proliferation of multi-core processors in this space. We investigate how core offlining and DVFS can be used together on these systems to reduce energy consumption. We show that core offlining leads to very modest savings in the best circumstances, with a heavy penalty in others, and show the cause of this to be low per-core idle power. We develop a policy in Linux that exploits this fact, and show that it improves up to 25% on existing implementations.
Your server as a function
Authors: Eriksen Marius
Published: May 2014

Building server software in a large-scale setting, where systems exhibit a high degree of concurrency and environmental variability, is a challenging task to even the most experienced programmer. Efficiency, safety, and robustness are paramount-goals which have traditionally conflicted with modularity, reusability, and flexibility. We describe three abstractions which combine to present a powerful programming model for building safe, modular, and efficient server software: Composable futures are used to relate concurrent, asynchronous actions; services and filters are specialized functions used for the modular composition of our complex server software. Finally, we discuss our experiences using these abstractions and techniques throughout Twitter's serving infrastructure.
Phase change memory in enterprise storage systems
Authors: Kim Hyojun , Seshadri Sangeetha , Dickey Clement L. , Chiu Lawrence
Published: May 2014

Storage devices based on Phase Change Memory (PCM) devices are beginning to generate considerable attention in both industry and academic communities. But whether the technology in its current state will be a commercially and technically viable alternative to entrenched technologies such as flash-based SSDs still remains unanswered. To address this it is important to consider PCM SSD devices not just from a device standpoint, but also from a holistic perspective.

This paper presents the results of our performance measurement study of a recent all-PCM SSD prototype. The average latency for 4 KB random read is 6.7 ?s, which is about 16x faster than a comparable eMLC flash SSD. The distribution of I/O response times is also much narrower than the flash SSD for both reads and writes. Based on real-world workload traces, we model a hypothetical storage device which consists of flash, HDD, and PCM to identify the combinations of device types that offer the best performance within cost constraints. Our results show that - even at current price points - PCM storage devices show promise as a new component in multi-tiered enterprise storage systems.
The Nonlinear Stability Prediction and FEM Modeling of High-Speed Spindle System with Joints Dynamic Characteristics
Authors: Wang Bo , Sun Wei , Xu Kunpeng , Zhang Junyong , Wen Bangchun
Published: May 2014

When predicting the nonlinear stability of high-speed spindle system, it is necessary to create an accurate model that reflects the dynamic characteristics of the whole system, including the spindle-bearing joint and spindle-holder-tool joints. In this paper, the distribution spring model of spindle-holder-tool joints was built with the consideration of its dynamic characteristics; the five-DOF dynamic model of the angle contact ball bearing was also established to study the influence of speed and preload on the spindle-bearing joint, both of which were used in the general whole complete spindle system FEM model. The rationality of the model was verified by comparison with the FRF of traditional rigid model and experiments. At last, the influences of speed and cutting force on the nonlinear stability were analyzed by amplitude spectrum, bifurcation, and Poincaré mapping. The results provided a theoretical basis and an evaluating criterion for nonlinear stability prediction and product surface quality improvement.
Greater Endothelial Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Gardner Andrew W. , Parker Donald E. , Montgomery Polly S. , Sosnowska Danuta , Casanegra Ana I. , Ungvari Zoltan , Csiszar Anna , Sonntag William E.
Published: May 2014

We compared apoptosis, cellular oxidative stress, and inflammation of cultured endothelial cells treated with sera from 156 subjects with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and 16 healthy control subjects. Furthermore, we compared circulating inflammatory, antioxidant capacity, and vascular biomarkers between the two groups. The PAD group had a 164% higher value for endothelial cell apoptosis (P<0.001) and a 62% higher value for endothelial cellular reactive oxygen species production (P<0.001) than the control group. Furthermore, the PAD group had lower systemic antioxidant capacity measured by hydroxyl radical antioxidant capacity activity (P<0.001), higher inflammatory and vascular measures of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (P<0.001), interleukin-8 (P<0.001), serum amyloid A (P<0.001), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (P<0.001), adiponectin (P<0.001), apolipoprotein B (P=0.013), apolipoprotein CIII (P=0.035), lower vascular endothelial growth factor-A (P<0.001), and hepatocyte growth factor (P<0.001) than the control group. Subjects with PAD have greater endothelial apoptosis and oxidative stress than control subjects with low burden of comorbid conditions and cardiovascular risk factors. Furthermore, subjects with PAD have lower systemic antioxidant capacity and angiogenic measures and higher circulating inflammatory parameters.
Hip Joint Osteochondroma: Systematic Review of the Literature and Report of Three Further Cases
Authors: Makhdom Asim M. , Jiang Fan , Hamdy Reggie C. , Benaroch Thierry E. , Lavigne Martin , Saran Neil
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study is to systematically review the literature with regards to surgical treatment of patients with hip joint osteochondromas, and to report our surgical management of three paediatric patients who had femoral neck or acetabular osteochondromas in association with acetabular dysplasia. We performed a systematic review using PubMed and Embase databases for all studies that reported surgical treatments for patients with peritrochanteric or acetabular osteochondroma with or without acetabular dysplasia. We also retrospectively reviewed three patients who were diagnosed with a hip osteochondroma in association with actetabular dysplasia. These patients were known to have hereditary multiple exostoses (HME). The systematic review revealed 21 studies that met our inclusion criteria. All studies were case reports and retrospective in nature and failed to conclude a uniform treatment plan. The three reported cases illustrate successful excision of hip osteochondromas and treatment of acetabular dysplasia. Early excision of hip osteochondromas might prevent acetabular dysplasia in HME patients. Routine radiographic pelvic survey at the time of diagnosis of HME is recommended for early detection of hip osteochondromas and acetabular dysplasia in these children.
Charged System Search Algorithm Utilized for Structural Damage Detection
Authors: Tabrizian Zahra , Ghodrati Amiri Gholamreza , Hossein Ali Beigy Morteza
Published: May 2014

This paper presents damage detection and assessment methodology based on the changes in dynamic parameters of a structural system. The method is applied at an element level using a finite element model. According to continuum damage mechanics, damage is represented by a reduction factor of the element stiffness. A recently developed metaheuristic optimization algorithm known as the charged system search (CSS) is utilized for locating and quantifying the damaged areas of the structure. In order to demonstrate the abilities of this method, three examples are included comprising of a 10-elements cantilever beam, a Bowstring plane truss, and a 39-element three-story three-bay plane frame. The possible damage types in structures by considering several damage scenarios and using incomplete modal data are modeled. Finally, results are obtained from the CSS algorithm by detecting damage in these structures and compared to the results of the PSOPC algorithm. In addition, the effect of noise is shown in the results of the CSS algorithm by suitable diagrams. As is illustrated, this method has acceptable results in the structural detection damage with low computational time.
Prediction of Effects of Geogrid Reinforced Granular Fill on the Behaviour of Static Liquefaction
Authors: Hemalatha A. , Mahendran N. , Ganesh Prabhu G.
Published: May 2014

The experimental investigation on the effects of granular fill and geogrid reinforced granular fill on the behaviour of the static liquefaction potential of the subsoil is reported in this study. A series of plate load test were carried out with different thickness of the granular fill, number of geogrid layers, and size/dimension of the footing. The test results were presented in terms of bearing capacity and subgrade modulus for the settlement ofδ10,δ15, andδ20. The experimental results revealed that the introduction of granular fill significantly increases the bearing capacity and effectively control the settlement behaviour of the footing. The introduction of geogrid in granular fill enhanced the Percentage of Control in Settlement and Bearing Capacity Ratio by a maximum of 328.54% and 203.41%, respectively. The introduction of geogrid in granular fill interrupts the failure zone of the granular fill and enhances the subgrade modulus of the footing by a maximum of 255.55%; in addition subgrade modulus of the footing was increased with an increase in the number of geogrid layers. Based on the test results it is suggested that the footing with large size has beneficial improvement on the reinforced granular fill.
Parametric Design and Multiobjective Optimization of Maglev Actuators for Active Vibration Isolation System
Authors: Wu Qianqian , Yue Honghao , Liu Rongqiang , Ding Liang , Deng Zongquan
Published: May 2014

The microvibration has a serious impact on science experiments on the space station and on image quality of high resolution satellites. As an important component of the active vibration isolation platform, the maglev actuator has a large stroke and exhibits excellent isolating performance benefiting from its noncontact characteristic. A maglev actuator with good linearity was designed in this paper. Fundamental features of the maglev actuator were obtained by finite element simulation. In order to minimize the coil weight and the heat dissipation of the maglev actuator, parametric design was carried out and multiobjective optimization based on the genetic algorithm was adopted. The optimized actuator has better mechanical properties than the initial one. Active vibration isolation platforms for different-scale payload were designed by changing the arrangement of the maglev actuators. The prototype to isolate vibration for small-scale payload was manufactured and the experiments for verifying the characteristics of the actuators were set up. The linearity of the actuator and the mechanical dynamic response of the vibration isolation platform were obtained. The experimental results highlight the effectiveness of the proposed design.
Bcl2 Family Functions as Signaling Target in Nicotine-/NNK-Induced Survival of Human Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Deng Xingming
Published: May 2014

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death and has a strong etiological association with cigarette smoking. Nicotine and nitrosamine 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) are two major components in cigarette smoke that significantly contribute to the development of human lung cancer. Nicotine is able to stimulate survival of both normal human lung epithelial and lung cancer cells. In contrast to nicotine, NNK is a more potent carcinogen that not only induces single-strand DNA breaks and oxidative DNA damage but also stimulates survival and proliferation of normal lung epithelial and lung cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanism(s) by which nicotine and NNK promote cell survival, proliferation, and lung tumor development remains elusive. The fate of cells (i.e., survival or death) is largely decided by the Bcl2 family members. In the past several years, multiple signaling links between nicotine/NNK and Bcl2 family members have been identified that regulate survival and proliferation. This review provides a concise, systematic overview of the current understanding of the role of the pro- or antiapoptotic proteins in cigarette smoking, lung cancer development, and treatment resistance.
Schurm-Power Convexity of a Class of Multiplicatively Convex Functions and Applications
Authors: Wang Wen , Yang Shiguo
Published: May 2014

We investigate the conditions under which the symmetric functionsFn,k(x,r)=∏1≤i1<i2<⋯0. As a consequence, we prove that these functions are Schur geometrically convex and Schur harmonically convex, which generalizes some known results. By applying the theory of majorization, several inequalities involving thepth power mean and the arithmetic, the geometric, or the harmonic means are presented.
Human Aqueous Humor Levels of TGF-β2: Relationship with Axial Length
Authors: Jia Yan , Hu Dan-Ning , Zhou Jibo
Published: May 2014

Purpose. To analyze the relationship between transforming growth factor-beta 2 (TGF-β2) levels in the anterior chamber aqueous humor and axial length of patients with myopia.Methods. TGF-β2 was measured with the Luminex xMAP Technology by using commercially available Milliplex xMAP Kits. Sixty-five aqueous humor samples were collected during cataract or clear lens extraction surgery and TGF-β2 levels in these specimens were analyzed. According to the axial length, the samples were divided into three groups: A (AL≤24 mm), B (24~29 mm), and C (AL ≥ 29 mm).Results. Aqueous humor samples were analyzed from subjects with an average age of 67.0 ± 11.7 years. Mean TGF-β2 concentration of all aqueous samples was 422.2 ± 258.8 pg/mL. TGF-β2 concentration in group C (543 ± 317 pg/mL) was significantly greater than that in group A (390 ± 212 pg/mL) and group B (337 ± 217 pg/mL). The concentration of TGF-β2 was positively correlated with axial length (r= 0.308,P= 0.013).Conclusions. TGF-β2 is likely to be acting as a critical factor in axial elongation and development of myopia.
Squeeze Casting of Semiolid A356 Alloy
Authors: Yang Xiang-Jie , Wang Ming , Ding Liang-Sheng , Guo Hong-Min , Liu Xu-bo
Published: May 2014

The rheo-squeeze casting (rheo-SQC) combining the rheocasting and the SQC was developed, in which semisolid slurry was produced by the low superheat pouring with a shearing field (LSPSF) process. The three-dimensional morphology of the primary α-Al phase and the rest spacing of slurry prepared by LSPSF process have been reconstructed and visualized, and the microstructures of squeeze cast A356 alloy have been obtained. Based on the three-dimensional microstructure reconstructed, their three-dimensional characterizations such as solid volume fraction and equivalent diameter of the extracted primary α-Al phase of the slurry were measured and calculated. And the microstructures of cross-section of squeeze cast product were investigated. Compared and analyzed the typical microstructure characteristics of parts in different positions produced by SQC and rheo-SQC, the results show that the primary α-Al phase was in the form of enriched dendrites across the whole section of parts produced by SQC. Nevertheless, in the relative case of the rheo-SQC, the whole formations of dendrites have been inhibited effectively, revealing a conspicuous modification in morphology and refinement of the primary α-Al phase. In addition, the solid fraction decreased from the centre to the verge of products along the slurry flow orientation.
Pterygospinous Bar and Foramen in the Adult Human Skulls of North India: Its Incidence and Clinical Relevance
Authors: Yadav Anjoo , Kumar Vinod , Niranjan Richa
Published: May 2014

Study of skulls has attracted the attention of anatomists since ages and sporadic attempts have been made to study skulls from time to time. Talking about the pterygoid processes of sphenoid bone, the irregular posterior border of lateral pterygoid plate usually presents, towards its upper part, a pterygospinous process, from which the pterygospinous ligament extends backwards and laterally to the spine of sphenoid. This ligament sometimes gets ossified as pterygospinous bar and a foramen is then formed, named pterygospinous foramen, for the passage of muscular branches of mandibular nerve.
The present study was undertaken to observe the incidence and status of pterygospinous bony bridge and foramen, its variations, and clinical relevance in the adult human skulls of North India. For this purpose, 500 skulls were observed, belonging to the Anthropology Museum of Department of Anatomy, GSVM Medical College, Kanpur.
Pterygospinous bars were found to be present in 51 skulls (10.2%), out of which completely ossified pterygospinous bony bridges were present in 20 skulls (4%) while 31 skulls (6.2%) had incompletely ossified pterygospinous ligaments. Such variations are of clinical significance for radiologists, neurologists, maxillofacial and dental surgeons, and anaesthetists, too.
Development and Characterization of New Monoclonal Antibodies against Human Recombinant CA XII
Authors: Dekaminaviciute Dovile , Lasickiene Rita , Parkkila Seppo , Jogaite Vaida , Matuliene Jurgita , Matulis Daumantas , Zvirbliene Aurelija
Published: May 2014

Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) are enzymes that catalyse the reversible hydration of CO2to bicarbonate. CA XII is considered a potential biomarker of tumor cells and a promising target for specific therapies. The aim of the current study was to develop new monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against human recombinant CA XII and evaluate their diagnostic potential. An extracellular catalytic domain of human CA XII was expressed inE. coliand used as an immunogen. Seven stable hybridoma cell lines producing high-affinity IgG antibodies against human CA XII were generated. The majority of MAbs were highly specific to CA XII and did not cross-react with human recombinant CA I, CA II, CA VII, and CA XIII. In order to demonstrate the diagnostic value of the MAbs, they were employed for the immunohistochemistry analysis of CA XII expression in tissues. Two MAbs (15A4 and 4A6) demonstrated a strong and specific immunostaining of CA XII in human tissue specimens. Flow cytometry analysis of 5 human tumor cell lines with the MAb 15A4 revealed its immunoreactivity with cellular CA XII. In conclusion, the MAbs raised against recombinant catalytic domain of CA XII recognize cellular CA XII and represent a promising diagnostic tool for the immunodetection of CA XII-expressing cells.
Reinforcement of Dental Methacrylate with Glass Fiber after Heated Silane Application
Authors: Fonseca Rodrigo Borges , Paula Marcella Silva de , Favarão Isabella Negro , Kasuya Amanda Vessoni Barbosa , Almeida Letícia Nunes de , Mendes Gustavo Adolfo Martins , Carlo Hugo Lemes
Published: May 2014

This study evaluated the influence of silane heat treatment and glass fiber fabrication type, industrially treated (I) or pure (P), on flexural and compressive strength of methacrylate resin bars (BISGMA/TEGDMA, 50/50%). Six groups(n=10)were created: I-sil: I/silanated; P-sil: P-silanated; I-sil/heat: I/silanated heated to 100°; P-sil/heat: P/silanated heated to 100°; (I: I/not silanated; and P: P/not silanated. Specimens were prepared for flexural strength(10×2×1 mm)and for compressive strength9.5×5.5×3 mm) and tested at 0.5 mm/min. Statistical analysis demonstrated the following for flexural strength(P< 0.05 ): I-sil:155.89±45.27BC; P-sil:155.89±45.27BC; I-sil/heat:130.20±22.11C; P-sil/heat:169.86±50.29AB; I:131.87±15.86C. For compressive strength, the following are demonstrated: I-sil:1367.25±188.77ab; P-sil:867.61±102.76d; I-sil/heat:1162.98±222.07c; P-sil/heat:1499.35±339.06a; and I:1245.78±211.16bc. Due to the impossibility of incorporating the stipulated amount of fiber, P group was excluded. Glass fiber treatment with heated silane enhanced flexural and compressive strength of a reinforced dental methacrylate.
Fast and Reliable Locating of Points with the Maximum Value of Total Electromagnetic Field Using a Modern Experimental Method for Radio Coverage in Urban Environment
Authors: Medjedovic Petar S. , Suka Darko S.
Published: May 2014

This research has been performed within the project “prediction, measurement, and analysis of composite electromagnetic field of artificial radiation sources,” funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The ultimate goal of the project is the installation of a monitoring network for continuous measurement and recording of nonionizing electromagnetic (EM) radiation levels in the wider area of Banja Luka city centre covering about 10 km2. For this reason it was necessary to make an optimal choice from a dozen of measurement points with the maximum value levels of total EM field. It was a difficult task, because in this case, with the resolution of 5m × 5m, approximately 400,000 points should be examined. Therefore, the pedestrian zones, areas, and routes with significantly smaller surfaces but with the largest flow of people have been examined, so the time required for their mapping with values of total EM field has been reduced to a more realistic framework. In this paper, in the volume allowed by the defined criteria, a fast and reliable experimental method has been described, which has been examined at one of the studied areas in the named project, with surface of 0.008 km2.
Immunomodulation of Nanoparticles in Nanomedicine Applications
Authors: Jiao Qing , Li Liwen , Mu Qingxin , Zhang Qiu
Published: May 2014

Nanoparticles (NPs) have promising applications in medicine. Immune system is an important protective system to defend organisms from non-self matters. NPs interact with the immune system and modulate its function, leading to immunosuppression or immunostimulation. These modulating effects may bring benefits or danger. Compositions, sizes, and surface chemistry, and so forth, affect these immunomodulations. Here we give an overview of the relationship between the physicochemical properties of NPs, which are candidates to be applied in medicine, and their immunomodulation properties.
Effect of Nonviral Plasmid Delivered Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor and Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound on Mandibular Condylar Growth: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Kaur Harmanpreet , Uludağ Hasan , El-Bialy Tarek
Published: May 2014

Objective. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is an important regulator of tissue growth. Previous studies have shown that low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) stimulates bone growth. The objective of this study was to evaluate the possible synergetic effect of LIPUS and local injection of nonviral bFGF plasmid DNA (pDNA) on mandibular growth in rats.Design. Groups were control, blank pDNA, bFGF pDNA, LIPUS, and bFGF pDNA + LIPUS. Treatments were performed for 28 days. Significant increase was observed in mandibular height and condylar length in LIPUS groups. MicroCT analysis showed significant increase in bone volume fraction in bFGF pDNA + LIPUS group. Histomorphometric analysis showed increased cell count and condylar proliferative and hypertrophic layers widths in bFGF pDNA group.Results. Current study showed increased mandibular condylar growth in either bFGF pDNA or LIPUS groups compared to the combined group that showed only increased bone volume fraction.Conclusion. It appears that there is an additive effect of bFGF + LIPUS on the mandibular growth.
Comprehensive Transcriptome Study to Develop Molecular Resources of the CopepodCalanus sinicusfor Their Potential Ecological Applications
Authors: Yang Qing , Sun Fanyue , Yang Zhi , Li Hongjun
Published: May 2014

Calanus sinicusBrodsky (Copepoda, Crustacea) is a dominant zooplanktonic species widely distributed in the margin seas of the Northwest Pacific Ocean. In this study, we utilized an RNA-Seq-based approach to develop molecular resources forC. sinicus. Adult samples were sequenced using the Illumina HiSeq 2000 platform. The sequencing data generated 69,751 contigs from 58.9 million filtered reads. The assembled contigs had an average length of 928.8 bp. Gene annotation allowed the identification of 43,417 unigene hits against the NCBI database. Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway mapping analysis revealed various functional genes related to diverse biological functions and processes. Transcripts potentially involved in stress response and lipid metabolism were identified among these genes. Furthermore, 4,871 microsatellites and 110,137 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in theC. sinicustranscriptome sequences. SNP validation by the melting temperature (Tm)-shift method suggested that 16 primer pairs amplified target products and showed biallelic polymorphism among 30 individuals. The present work demonstrates the power of Illumina-based RNA-Seq for the rapid development of molecular resources in nonmodel species. The validated SNP set from our study is currently being utilized in an ongoing ecological analysis to support a future study ofC. sinicuspopulation genetics.
Simultaneous Quantification of Ten Active Components in Traditional Chinese Formula Sijunzi Decoction Using a UPLC-PDA Method
Authors: An Kang , Jin-rui Guo , Zhen Zhang , Xiao-long Wang
Published: May 2014

Sijunzi decoction (SJZT), a traditional Chinese formula (TCMF) consisting of four herbs, has been widely used for the treatment of various gastrointestinal symptoms. However, its modernization process is hindered by the lack of a powerful quality control method that covers the major active components in the formula. The aim of this study was to establish a UPLC method for the quantitative determination of ten active components in Sijunzi decoction including ginsenoside Rg1, Re, Rb1, liquiritin, liquiritigenin, glycyrrhizic acid, atractylenolide I, atractylenolide II, atractylenolide III, and pachymic acid. Separation was achieved using an ACQUITY UPLC BEHC18column (2.1 mm × 100 mm, 1.7 μm) with a gradient elution program consisting of acetonitrile and 0.1% phosphoric acid solution. The detection wavelengths were set at 203, 254, 222, and 267 nm. The method was validated for linearity, accuracy, precision, limit of detection, and limit of quantification. The validated method was successfully applied to the simultaneous quantification of ten active compounds from several finished batches of SJZT. This validated that UPLC method is expected to provide a new basis for the quality control of SJZT.
Existence of Positive Solutions for a Kind of Fractional Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Liu Hongjie , Fu Xiao , Qi Liangping
Published: May 2014

We are concerned with the following nonlinear three-point fractional boundary value problem:D0+αut+λatft,ut=0,0<t<1,u0=0, andu1=βuη, where1<α≤2,0<β<1,0<η<1,D0+αis the standard Riemann-Liouville fractional derivative,at>0is continuous for0≤t≤1, andf≥0is continuous on0,1×0,∞. By using Krasnoesel'skii's fixed-point theorem and the corresponding Green function, we obtain some results for the existence of positive solutions. At the end of this paper, we give an example to illustrate our main results.
Canine Filarial Infections in a HumanBrugia malayiEndemic Area of India
Authors: Ravindran Reghu , Varghese Sincy , Nair Suresh N. , Balan Vimalkumar M. , Lakshmanan Bindu , Ashruf Riyas M. , Kumar Swaroop S. , Gopalan Ajith Kumar K. , Nair Archana S. , Malayil Aparna , Chandrasekhar Leena , Juliet Sanis , Kopparambil Devada , Ramachandran Rajendran , Kunjupillai Regu , Kakada Showkath Ali M.
Published: May 2014

A very high prevalence of microfilaremia of 42.68 per cent out of 164 canine blood samples examined was observed in Cherthala (of Alappuzha district of Kerala state), a known humanBrugia malayiendemic area of south India. The species of canine microfilariae were identified asDirofilaria repens, Brugia malayi, andAcanthocheilonema reconditum.D. repenswas the most commonly detected species followed byB. pahangi.D. immitiswas not detected in any of the samples examined. Based on molecular techniques, microfilariae with histochemical staining pattern of “local staining at anal pore and diffuse staining at central body” was identified asD. repensin addition to those showing acid phosphatase activity only at the anal pore. Even thoughB. malayilike acid phosphatase activity was observed in few dogs examined, they were identified as genetically closer toB. pahangi. Hence, the possibility of dogs acting as reservoirs of humanB. malayiin this area was ruled out.
Early Appearance of Nonvisual and Circadian Markers in the Developing Inner Retinal Cells of Chicken
Authors: Díaz Nicolás M. , Morera Luis P. , Verra Daniela M. , Contin María A. , Guido Mario E.
Published: May 2014

The retina is a key component of the vertebrate circadian system; it is responsible for detecting and transmitting the environmental illumination conditions (day/night cycles) to the brain that synchronize the circadian clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). For this, retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) project to the SCN and other nonvisual areas. In the chicken, intrinsically photosensitive RGCs (ipRGCs) expressing the photopigment melanopsin (Opn4) transmit photic information and regulate diverse nonvisual tasks. In nonmammalian vertebrates, two genes encodeOpn4: theXenopus(Opn4x) and the mammalian (Opn4m) orthologs. RGCs express bothOpn4genes but are not the only inner retinal cells expressingOpn4x: horizontal cells (HCs) also do so. Here, we further characterize primary cultures of both populations of inner retinal cells (RGCs and HCs) expressingOpn4x. The expression of this nonvisual photopigment, as well as that for different circadian markers such as the clock genesBmal1,Clock,Per2, andCry1, and the key melatonin synthesizing enzyme, arylalkylamineN-acetyltransferase (AA-NAT), appears very early in development in both cell populations. The results clearly suggest that nonvisual Opn4 photoreceptors and endogenous clocks converge all together in these inner retinal cells at early developmental stages.
Factors Associated with Patient’s Delay in Tuberculosis Treatment in Bahir Dar City Administration, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Gebeyehu Endalew , Azage Muluken , Abeje Gedefaw
Published: May 2014

Background. Unknown proportions of tuberculosis cases remain undiagnosed and untreated as result of several factors which further increases the number of tuberculosis cases per index case.Objective. To identify factors associated with patient’s delay in initiating treatment of tuberculosis.Methods. Cross-sectional study was employed from January to April, 2013, in Bahir Dar Ethiopia. A total of 360 patients were included. Data were collected from tuberculosis patients using a semistructured questionnaire. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 16 windows. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with patient delay.Results. Of all patients, 211 (62%) sought medical care after the WHO recommended period (21 days). The median patient delays of smear positive, smear negative, and extrapulmonary patients were 27 (IQR: 10–59), 30 (IQR: 9–65), and 31 (IQR: 10–150) days, respectively, with statistically significant variations among them (ANOVA:F=5.96;P<0.003). Place of residence and educational status were the predictors of patient delay.Conclusion. Around two-thirds of all patients and more than half of smear positive tuberculosis patients were delayed in seeking medical care within the recommended period. Provision of DOTS service in the vicinity and health education on TB may reduce patient delay and its consequences.