bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combinatorial dimensions: Indecomposability on certain local finite-dimensional trivial extension algebras
Authors: Orendain Juan
Published: December 2013

We study problems related to indecomposability of modules over certain local finite-dimensional trivial extension algebras. We do this by purely combinatorial methods. We introduce the concepts of graph of cyclic modules, of combinatorial dimension, and of fundamental combinatorial dimension of a module. We use these concepts to establish, under favorable conditions, criteria for the indecomposability of a module. We present categorified versions of these constructions and we use this categorical framework to establish criteria for the indecomposability of modules of infinite rank.
Flag-transitive primitive (v, k, λ) symmetric designs with λ at most 10 and alternating socle
Authors: Dong Huili , Zhou Shenglin
Published: December 2013

This paper is a contribution to the investigation of flag-transitive primitive symmetric (v, k, λ) designs with λ at most 10. We prove that if 𝒟 = (𝒫, ℬ) is a nontrivial symmetric (v, k, λ) design, G ≤ Aut (𝒟) is flag-transitive primitive with Soc (G) = An for n ≥ 5, then 𝒟 is the unique symmetric (35,18,9) design which is the complement of the symmetric (35,17,8) design.
FRÉCHET FRAMES, GENERAL DEFINITION AND EXPANSIONS
Authors: PILIPOVIĆ STEVAN , STOEVA DIANA T.
Published: December 2013

We define an (X1, Θ, X2)-frame with Banach spaces X2⊆ X1, ‖ ⋅ ‖1≤ ‖ ⋅ ‖2, and a BK-space [Formula: see text]. Then by the use of decreasing sequences of Banach spaces [Formula: see text] and of sequence spaces [Formula: see text], we define a General Fréchet frame on the Fréchet space [Formula: see text]. We obtain frame expansions of elements of XFand its dual [Formula: see text], as well of some of the generating spaces of XFwith convergence in appropriate norms. Moreover, we determine necessary and sufficient conditions for a General pre-Fréchet frame to be a General Fréchet frame, as well as for the complementedness of the range of the analysis operator U : XF→ ΘF. Several examples illustrate our investigations.
Traveling wave solutions in n-dimensional delayed nonlocal diffusion system with mixed quasimonotonicity
Authors: Yan Weifang , Liu Rui
Published: December 2013

This paper is devoted to the study of an n-dimensional delayed system with nonlocal diffusion and mixed quasimonotonicity. By developing a new definition of upper–lower solutions and a new cross iteration scheme, we establish some existence results of traveling wave solutions. These results are applied to a nonlocal diffusion model which takes the four-species Lotka–Volterra model as its special case.
INCREASE OF EFFICIENCY OF Li+-INTERCALATED CURRENT GENERATION IN SUPRAMOLECULAR ENSEMBLES WITH HIERARCHICAL ARCHITECTURE MCM-41〈HYDROQUINONE〉
Authors: MATULKA D. V. , GRYGORCHAK I. I. , LUKIYANETS B. A.
Published: December 2013

Double-matrix hierarchical structure of the 〈molecular-lattice matrix MCM-41〈hydroquinone〉〉 is synthesized. Its use in the cathode process in the Li +-intercalation current generation showed a significant improvement in the structure of the discharge curve and the practical constancy of diffusion coefficient throughout the discharge process. Theoretical model describing the peculiarities of observed characteristics in the structure is presented.
An integrated fuzzy QFD and fuzzy goal programming approach for global facility location-allocation problem
Authors: Jamalnia Aboozar , Mahdiraji Hannan Amoozad , Sadeghi Mohammad Reza , Hajiagha Seyed Hossein Razavi , Feili Ardalan
Published: December 2013

Companies pursuing extension of their activities and new companies in establishment phase are using various concepts and techniques to consider location decision, because location greatly affects both fixed and variable costs and on the overall profit of the company. This paper suggests a new use of quality function deployment (QFD) for facility location selection problem instead of applying it to traditional product quality promotion. Fuzzy sets concept is also incorporated to deal with imprecise nature of the linguistic judgments of decision makers. First, fuzzy QFD as a stand-alone approach is presented to address international facility location selection decision. To consider resource limitations and operational constraints, fuzzy goal programming is combined with fuzzy quality function deployment to present a developed approach to deal with global facility location-allocation decision. A demonstration of the applicability of proposed methodologies in a real-world problem is presented.
Double Helix Value Functions, Ordinal/Cardinal Approach, Additive Utility Functions, Multiple Criteria, Decision Paradigm, Process, and Types (Z Theory I)
Authors: Malakooti Behnam
Published: December 2013

Z Utility Theory refers to a class of nonlinear utility functions for solving Risk and Multiple Criteria Decision-Making problems. Z utility functions are hybrids of additive and nonadditive (nonlinear) functions. This paper addresses the concepts and assessment methods for the additive part of Z-utility functions for multiple criteria problems that satisfy the efficiency (nondominancy) principle. We provide a decision paradigm and guidelines on how to approach, formulate, and solve decision-making problems. We, also, overview the modeling of decision process based on four types of decision-making styles. For multi-criteria problems, a new definition of convex efficiency is introduced. Also polyhedral efficiency is developed for presenting multi-criteria efficiency (nondominancy) graphically. New double helix quasi-linear value functions for multi-criteria are developed. Two types of double helix value functions for solving bi-criteria (Advantages versus Disadvantages) and also risk problems are introduced: Food–Fun curves for expected values and Fight-Flight curves for expected risk values. Ordinal/Cardinal Approach (OCA) for assessment of additive utility functions is developed. Simple consistency tests to determine whether the assessed utility function satisfies ordinal and/or cardinal properties are provided. We show that OCA can also be used to solve outranking problems. We provide a critique of Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) for assessing additive value functions and show that the developed Ordinal/Cardinal Approach overcomes the shortcomings of AHP. We also develop a unified/integrated approach for simultaneous assessment of nonlinear value and additive (multi-criteria) utility functions. These results in an additive utility function that can be concave, convex, or hybrid concave/convex based on the nonlinear value function. Finally, we show an interactive paired comparisons approach for solving nonadditive and nonlinear utility functions for bi-criteria decision-making problems. Several illustrative examples are provided. The paper provides reliable and robust approaches for modeling the utility preferences of heterogeneous economic agents in macro and micro-economics.
Which is More Reliable, Expert Experience or Information Itself? Weight Scheme of Complex Cases for Health Management Decision Making
Authors: Gu Dongxiao , Liang Changyong , Kim Kyung-Sun , Yang Changhui , Cheng Wenjuan , Wang Jun
Published: December 2013

How to obtain valuable knowledge more effectively from historical cases and satisfy the requirements of supporting diagnosis or management decision making is one of the important and challenging issues in the research field of modern historical information management and intelligent decision-making science. In this study, we develop a novel case-based reasoning (CBR) method which is based on information entropy and improved gray systems theory for knowledge acquisition of historical diagnosis decision-making cases. Specially, information entropy for weight determination is introduced into the CBR, as well as a gray system theory combined to support the diagnosis decision making of breast cancer. Based on two different real-world data sets, we conduct experimental studies to compare the performance of the Delphi method and information entropy. We also investigate which combination is best among different weight determination methods and retrieval algorithms. The results suggest that: generally, information entropy is a better approach to weight derivation and better matching effect can be obtained if it is integrated into the retrieval algorithm based on gray system theory rather than Euclidean distance algorithm. Our study can provide a novel approach to obtain weight values of cases, as well as an effective tool to mine valuable decision knowledge from historical cases in public hospitals.
On the modeling of polar component of solvation energy using smooth Gaussian-based dielectric function
Authors: Li Lin , Li Chuan , Alexov Emil
Published: December 2013

Traditional implicit methods for modeling electrostatics in biomolecules use a two-dielectric approach: a biomolecule is assigned low dielectric constant while the water phase is considered as a high dielectric constant medium. However, such an approach treats the biomolecule–water interface as a sharp dielectric border between two homogeneous dielectric media and does not account for inhomogeneous dielectric properties of the macromolecule as well. Recently we reported a new development, a smooth Gaussian-based dielectric function which treats the entire system, the solute and the water phase, as inhomogeneous dielectric medium (Li L, Li C, Zhang Z, Alexor E, On the dielectric constant of proteins: Smooth dielectric function for macromolecular modeling and its implementation in Delphi, J Chem Theory Comput9(4):2126–2136, 2013). Here we examine various aspects of the modeling of polar solvation energy in such inhomogeneous systems in terms of the solute–water boundary and the inhomogeneity of the solute in the absence of water surrounding. The smooth Gaussian-based dielectric function is implemented in the DelPhi finite-difference program, and therefore the sensitivity of the results with respect to the grid parameters is investigated, and it is shown that the calculated polar solvation energy is almost grid independent. Furthermore, the results are compared with the standard two-media model and it is demonstrated that on average, the standard method overestimates the magnitude of the polar solvation energy by a factor 2.5. Lastly, the possibility of the solute to have local dielectric constant larger than of a bulk water is investigated in a benchmarking test against experimentally determined set of pKa's and it is speculated that side chain rearrangements could result in local dielectric constant larger than 80.
Quantum chemical and molecular dynamics studies of imidazoline derivatives as corrosion inhibitor and quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) analysis using the support vector machine (SVM) method
Authors: Du Lei , Zhao Hongxia , Hu Haixiang , Zhang Xiuhui , Ji Lin , Li Hanlai , Yang Huan , Li Xiaochun , Shi Shumin , Li Ruijing , Tang Xiaoyong , Yang Jing
Published: December 2013

The inhibition performance of 10 imidazoline molecules with number of carbon from 15 to 21 of hydrocarbon straight-chain was studied by weight-loss method and theoretical approaches. The main purpose was to build a quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) between the structural properties and the inhibition efficiencies, and then to predict efficiencies of new corrosion inhibitors. The quantum chemical calculation suggested that the active region of imidazoline molecules was located on the imidazoline ring and hydrophilic group, and active sites were concentrated on the nitrogen atoms of the molecules and carbon atoms of hydrophilic group. A model in accordance with the real experimental solution was built in the molecular dynamics, and the equilibrium configuration indicated that the imidazoline molecules were adsorbed on Fe (110) surface in parallel manner. Descriptors for QSAR model building were selected by principal component analysis (PCA) and the model was built by the support vector machine (SVM) approach, which shows good performance since the value of correlation coefficient (R) was 0.99 and the root mean square error (RMSE) was 0.94. Additionally, six new imidazoline molecules were theoretically designed and the inhibition efficiencies of three molecules were predicted to be more than 86% by the established QSAR model.
Origin of the temperature dependence of the rate of singlet energy transfer in a three-component truxene-bridged dyads
Authors: Langlois Adam , Xu Hai-Jun , Brizet Bertrand , Denat Franck , Barbe Jean-Michel , Gros Claude P. , Harvey Pierre D.
Published: December 2013

We report a truxene-based dyad built upon one donor (tri-meso-phenylzinc(II)porphyrin) and two acceptors (octa-β-alkylporphyrin free base) in which the donor exhibits free rotation around a Ctruxene-Cmesosingle bond at 298 K in fluid solution but not at 77 K in a glass matrix, whereas the acceptors have very limited motion as they are blocked by β-methyl groups. This case is interesting because all the structural and spectroscopic parameters affecting the rate for singlet energy transfer according to a Förster Resonance Energy Transfer are only weakly temperature dependent, leaving only the Dexter mechanism explaining the larger variation in rate of energy transfers with the temperature hence providing a circumstantial evidence for a dual mechanism (Föster and Dexter) in truxene-based dyads (or polyads) in the S1excited states.
A Neoproterozoic petroleum system in the Dalradian Supergroup, Scottish Caledonides
Authors: Bata Timothy , Parnell John
Published: December 2013

Neoproterozoic petroleum systems occur in several parts of the world, based on organic-rich hydrocarbon source rocks deposited during the late Neoproterozoic high sea level. The Dalradian Supergroup in Argyll, Scotland, shows evidence for coupled source rock and reservoir rock. The Easdale Slate contains organic carbon, rich enough to be a good source rock. Pore spaces of the Scarba Conglomerate are filled with oil residue. Pyrite spatially associated with the oil residue may reflect microbial sulphate reduction. Despite greenschist-facies metamorphism, the Easdale Subgroup records a hitherto unrecognized petroleum system, which adds to a global picture of late Neoproterozoic hydrocarbon generation.
Plans and Detours
Authors: Wei James
Published: December 2013

At various stages of my career, I made and followed plans for progress and growth. However, owing to several unexpected challenges, I had to make detours into unplanned vistas. When I look around at the careers of my former students and younger colleagues, I see fewer long-term, stable positions and frequent changes both in employers and in functions every ten or twenty years. Our curriculum prepares our students for manufacturing careers in the United States, but the current trend of corporate merger and outsourcing can suddenly turn their work into marketing or finance in the Far East. A fox that knows many tricks may be better suited to changing environments than a hedgehog that knows only one single trick. Perhaps future education should not only teach few subjects in depth for immediate career needs but also teach adaptability to unrelated challenges.
The Role of the DSM-5 Personality Trait Model in Moving Toward a Quantitative and Empirically Based Approach to Classifying Personality and Psychopathology
Authors: Krueger Robert F. , Markon Kristian E.
Published: December 2013

The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) represents a watershed moment in the history of official psychopathology classification systems because it is the first DSM to feature an empirically based model of maladaptive personality traits. Attributes of patients with personality disorders were discussed by the DSM-5 Personality and Personality Disorders Work Group and then operationalized and refined in the course of an empirical project that eventuated in the construction of the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 (PID-5). We review research to date on the DSM-5 trait model, with a primary aim of discussing how this kind of research could serve to better tether the DSM to data as it continues to evolve. For example, studies to date suggest that the DSM-5 trait model provides reasonable coverage of personality pathology but also suggest areas for continued refinement. This kind of research provides a way of evolving psychopathology classification on the basis of research evidence as opposed to clinical authority.
Noncentrosymmetric Superconductors
Authors: Yip Sungkit
Published: December 2013

Physics of noncentrosymmetric superconductors is reviewed. We explain the mixing between singlet and triplet superconducting order parameters when parity symmetry is absent. Some exotic properties are summarized, including magnetoelectric effects, the helical phase, topological properties, and unusual surface states.
Delivery of Lipophilic Bioactives: Assembly, Disassembly, and Reassembly of Lipid Nanoparticles
Authors: Yao Mingfei , Xiao Hang , McClements David Julian
Published: December 2013

The oral bioavailability of lipophilic bioactive molecules can be greatly increased by encapsulating them within engineered lipid nanoparticles (ELNs), such as micelles, microemulsions, nanoemulsions, or solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs). After ingestion, these ELNs are disassembled in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and then reassembled into biological lipid nanoparticles (mixed micelles) in the small intestine. These mixed micelles solubilize and transport lipophilic bioactive components to the epithelial cells. The mixed micelles are then disassembled and reassembled into yet another form of biological lipid nanoparticle [chylomicrons (CMs)] within the enterocyte cells. The CMs carry the bioactive components into the systemic (blood) circulation via the lymphatic system, thereby avoiding first-pass metabolism. This article provides an overview of the various physicochemical and physiological processes responsible for the assembly and disassembly of lipid nanoparticles outside and inside the GIT. This knowledge can be used to design food-grade delivery systems to improve the oral bioavailability of encapsulated lipophilic bioactive components.
Social Movements in Health
Authors: Brown Theodore M. , Fee Elizabeth
Published: December 2013

Most public health practitioners know that public health has relied on biomedical advances and administrative improvements, but it is less commonly understood that social movements in health have also been sources of motivation for population health advances. This review considers the impacts of social movements focused on urban conditions and health, on the health of children, and on behavioral and substance-related determinants of health and illustrates how these movements have significantly influenced public health activities and programs. We hope this review will motivate public health workers to make common cause with social activists and to encourage social activists to ally with public health professionals.
Personal Belief Exemptions From School Vaccination Requirements
Authors: Diekema Douglas S.
Published: December 2013

Despite the impact vaccination has had on the control and prevention of many infectious diseases, some parents choose not to vaccinate their children. Although there is no federal law requiring vaccination of children in the United States, all states require evidence of vaccination against at least some diseases as a condition of school entry. Which vaccines are required; how many doses are required; whether entry requirements apply to child care, kindergarten, or middle school; and whether exemptions from vaccine requirements will be allowed all differ by state. All but two states allow some kind of personal belief exemption from school vaccination requirements. This article reviews the history of school vaccination requirements and exemptions, the legal status of state vaccination laws and exemptions, the impact of school vaccination requirements and personal belief exemptions on vaccination rates and disease incidence, and strategies for maintaining adequate vaccination rates in states that allow personal belief exemptions.
Public Health and Media Advocacy
Authors: Dorfman Lori , Krasnow Ingrid Daffner
Published: December 2013

Media advocacy blends communications, science, politics, and advocacy to advance public health goals. In this article, we explain how media advocacy supports the social justice grounding of public health while addressing public health's “wicked problems” in the context of American politics. We outline media advocacy's theoretical foundations in agenda setting and framing and describe its practical application, from the layers of strategy to storytelling, which can illuminate public health solutions for journalists, policy makers, and the general public. Finally, we describe the challenges in evaluating media advocacy campaigns.
Commentary: Generating Rigorous Evidence for Public Health: The Need for New Thinking to Improve Research and Practice
Authors: Brownson Ross C. , Roux Ana V. Diez , Swartz Katherine
Published: December 2013

This commentary describes the concept of evidence-based public health, including the limitations of evidence. Increased attention to evidence may have numerous benefits for public health practice, including access to higher-quality information on what works, a higher likelihood of successful programs and policies being implemented, greater workforce productivity, and more efficient use of resources. To broaden thinking on the sources and scope of evidence, the three reviews in this symposium seek to (a) compare and contrast several evaluation designs that are alternatives to the randomized controlled trial; (b) describe two research approaches that are useful in addressing complex, multilevel public health issues (i.e., mixed methods research and mixed studies reviews); and (c) provide an overview of the value and approaches for generating practice-based evidence. These reviews highlight the complexity and interrelatedness of public health challenges, limitations of researcher-driven, quantitative approaches, and the need to broaden our current concepts of evidence.
Identification of a microRNA landscape targeting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in inflammation-induced colorectal carcinogenesis
Authors: Josse Claire , Bouznad Nassim , Geurts Pierre , Irrthum Alexandre , Huynh-Thu Vân Anh , Servais Laurence , Hego Alexandre , Delvenne Philippe , Bours Vincent , Oury Cécile
Published: December 2013

Inflammation can contribute to tumor formation; however, markers that predict progression are still lacking. In the present study, the well-established azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse model of colitis-associated cancer was used to analyze microRNA (miRNA) modulation accompanying inflammation-induced tumor development and to determine whether inflammation-triggered miRNA alterations affect the expression of genes or pathways involved in cancer. A miRNA microarray experiment was performed to establish miRNA expression profiles in mouse colon at early and late time points during inflammation and/or tumor growth. Chronic inflammation and carcinogenesis were associated with distinct changes in miRNA expression. Nevertheless, prediction algorithms of miRNA-mRNA interactions and computational analyses based on ranked miRNA lists consistently identified putative target genes that play essential roles in tumor growth or that belong to key carcinogenesis-related signaling pathways. We identified PI3K/Akt and the insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1) as major pathways being affected in the AOM/DSS model. DSS-induced chronic inflammation downregulates miR-133a and miR-143/145, which is reportedly associated with human colorectal cancer and PI3K/Akt activation. Accordingly, conditioned medium from inflammatory cells decreases the expression of these miRNA in colorectal adenocarcinoma Caco-2 cells. Overexpression of miR-223, one of the main miRNA showing strong upregulation during AOM/DSS tumor growth, inhibited Akt phosphorylation and IGF-1R expression in these cells. Cell sorting from mouse colons delineated distinct miRNA expression patterns in epithelial and myeloid cells during the periods preceding and spanning tumor growth. Hence, cell-type-specific miRNA dysregulation and subsequent PI3K/Akt activation may be involved in the transition from intestinal inflammation to cancer.
Enhanced currents through L-type calcium channels in cardiomyocytes disturb the electrophysiology of the dystrophic heart
Authors: Koenig Xaver , Rubi Lena , Obermair Gerald J. , Cervenka Rene , Dang Xuan B. , Lukacs Peter , Kummer Stefan , Bittner Reginald E. , Kubista Helmut , Todt Hannes , Hilber Karlheinz
Published: December 2013

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), induced by mutations in the gene encoding for the cytoskeletal protein dystrophin, is an inherited disease characterized by progressive muscle weakness. Besides the relatively well characterized skeletal muscle degenerative processes, DMD is also associated with cardiac complications. These include cardiomyopathy development and cardiac arrhythmias. The current understanding of the pathomechanisms in the heart is very limited, but recent research indicates that dysfunctional ion channels in dystrophic cardiomyocytes play a role. The aim of the present study was to characterize abnormalities in L-type calcium channel function in adult dystrophic ventricular cardiomyocytes. By using the whole cell patch-clamp technique, the properties of currents through calcium channels in ventricular cardiomyocytes isolated from the hearts of normal and dystrophic adult mice were compared. Besides the commonly used dystrophin-deficient mdx mouse model for human DMD, we also used mdx-utr mice, which are both dystrophin- and utrophin-deficient. We found that calcium channel currents were significantly increased, and channel inactivation was reduced in dystrophic cardiomyocytes. Both effects enhance the calcium influx during an action potential (AP). Whereas the AP in dystrophic mouse cardiomyocytes was nearly normal, implementation of the enhanced dystrophic calcium conductance in a computer model of a human ventricular cardiomyocyte considerably prolonged the AP. Finally, the described dystrophic calcium channel abnormalities entailed alterations in the electrocardiograms of dystrophic mice. We conclude that gain of function in cardiac L-type calcium channels may disturb the electrophysiology of the dystrophic heart and thereby cause arrhythmias.
Augmented dilation to nitric oxide in uterine arteries from rats with type 2 diabetes: implications for vascular adaptations to pregnancy
Authors: Goulopoulou Styliani , Hannan Johanna L. , Matsumoto Takayuki , Ergul Adviye , Webb R. Clinton
Published: December 2013

Pre-existing diabetes increases the risk of maternal and fetal complications during pregnancy, which may be due to underlying maternal vascular dysfunction and impaired blood supply to the uteroplacental unit. Endothelial dysfunction and reduced vascular smooth muscle responsiveness to nitric oxide (NO) are common vascular impairments in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We hypothesized that uterine arteries from diabetic rats would have reduced vascular smooth muscle sensitivity to NO compared with nondiabetic rats due to impairment in the NO/soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC)/cGMP signaling pathway. Uterine arteries from pregnant Goto-Kakizaki (GK; model of T2D) and Wistar (nondiabetic) rats were studied in a wire myograph. GK nonpregnant uterine arteries had reduced responses to ACh and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) but increased responses to propylamine propylamine NONOate and greater sensitivity to sildenafil compared with Wistar nonpregnant arteries. In late pregnancy, Wistar rats had reduced uterine vascular smooth muscle responsiveness to SNP, but GK rats failed to show this adaptation and had reduced expression of sGC compared with the nonpregnant state. GK rats had a smaller litter size (13.9 ± 0.48 vs. 9.8 ± 0.75; P < 0.05) and a greater number of resorptions compared with Wistar controls (0.8 ± 0.76% vs. 19.9 ± 6.06%; P < 0.05). These results suggest that uterine arteries from rats with T2D show reduced sensitivity of uterine vascular smooth muscle sGC to NO. During pregnancy, the GK uterine vascular smooth muscle fails to show relaxation responses similar to those of arteries from nondiabetic rats.
Variation of mechanical properties and quantitative proteomics of VSMC along the arterial tree
Authors: Dinardo Carla Luana , Venturini Gabriela , Zhou Enhua H. , Watanabe Ii Sei , Campos Luciene Cristina Gastalho , Dariolli Rafael , da Motta-Leal-Filho Joaquim Maurício , Carvalho Valdemir Melechco , Cardozo Karina Helena Morais , Krieger José Eduardo , Alencar Adriano Mesquita , Pereira Alexandre Costa
Published: December 2013

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are thought to assume a quiescent and homogeneous mechanical behavior after arterial tree development phase. However, VSMCs are known to be molecularly heterogeneous in other aspects and their mechanics may play a role in pathological situations. Our aim was to evaluate VSMCs from different arterial beds in terms of mechanics and proteomics, as well as investigate factors that may influence this phenotype. VSMCs obtained from seven arteries were studied using optical magnetic twisting cytometry (both in static state and after stretching) and shotgun proteomics. VSMC mechanical data were correlated with anatomical parameters and ultrastructural images of their vessels of origin. Femoral, renal, abdominal aorta, carotid, mammary, and thoracic aorta exhibited descending order of stiffness (G, P < 0.001). VSMC mechanical data correlated with the vessel percentage of elastin and amount of surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM), which decreased with the distance from the heart. After 48 h of stretching simulating regional blood flow of elastic arteries, VSMCs exhibited a reduction in basal rigidity. VSMCs from the thoracic aorta expressed a significantly higher amount of proteins related to cytoskeleton structure and organization vs. VSMCs from the femoral artery. VSMCs are heterogeneous in terms of mechanical properties and expression/organization of cytoskeleton proteins along the arterial tree. The mechanical phenotype correlates with the composition of ECM and can be modulated by cyclic stretching imposed on VSMCs by blood flow circumferential stress.
NADH changes during hypoxia, ischemia, and increased work differ between isolated heart preparations
Authors: Wengrowski Anastasia M. , Kuzmiak-Glancy Sarah , Jaimes Rafael , Kay Matthew W.
Published: December 2013

Langendorff-perfused hearts and working hearts are established isolated heart preparation techniques that are advantageous for studying cardiac physiology and function, especially when fluorescence imaging is a key component. However, oxygen and energy requirements vary widely between isolated heart preparations. When energy supply and demand are not in harmony, such as when oxygen is not adequately available, the imbalance is reflected in NADH fluctuations. As such, NADH imaging can provide insight into the metabolic state of tissue. Hearts from New Zealand white rabbits were prepared as mechanically silenced Langendorff-perfused hearts, Langendorff-perfused hearts, or biventricular working hearts and subjected to sudden changes in workload, instantaneous global ischemia, and gradual hypoxia while heart rate, aortic pressure, and epicardial NADH fluorescence were monitored. Fast pacing resulted in a dip in NADH upon initiation and a spike in NADH when pacing was terminated in biventricular working hearts only, with the magnitude of the changes greatest at the fastest pacing rate. Working hearts were also most susceptible to changes in oxygen supply; NADH was at half-maximum value when perfusate oxygen was at 67.8 ± 13.7%. Langendorff-perfused and mechanically arrested hearts were the least affected by low oxygen supply, with half-maximum NADH occurring at 42.5 ± 5.0% and 23.7 ± 4.6% perfusate oxygen, respectively. Although the biventricular working heart preparation can provide a useful representation of mechanical in vivo heart function, it is not without limitations. Understanding the limitations of isolated heart preparations is crucial when studying cardiac function in the context of energy supply and demand.
Release kinetics of circulating cardiac myosin binding protein-C following cardiac injury
Authors: Kuster Diederik W. D. , Cardenas-Ospina Adriana , Miller Lawson , Liebetrau Christoph , Troidl Christian , Nef Holger M. , Möllmann Helge , Hamm Christian W. , Pieper Karen S. , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Kleiman Neal S. , Stuyvers Bruno D. , Marian Ali J. , Sadayappan Sakthivel
Published: December 2013

Diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI) is based on ST-segment elevation on electrocardiographic evaluation and/or elevated plasma cardiac troponin (cTn) levels. However, troponins lack the sensitivity required to detect the onset of MI at its earliest stages. Therefore, to confirm its viability as an ultra-early biomarker of MI, this study investigates the release kinetics of cardiac myosin binding protein-C (cMyBP-C) in a porcine model of MI and in two human cohorts. Release kinetics of cMyBP-C were determined in a porcine model of MI ( n = 6, pigs, either sex) by measuring plasma cMyBP-C level serially from 30 min to 14 days after coronary occlusion, with use of a custom-made immunoassay. cMyBP-C plasma levels were increased from baseline (76 ± 68 ng/l) at 3 h (767 ± 211 ng/l) and peaked at 6 h (2,418 ± 780 ng/l) after coronary ligation. Plasma cTnI, cTnT, and myosin light chain-3 levels were all increased 6 h after ligation. In a cohort of patients ( n = 12) with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy undergoing transcoronary ablation of septal hypertrophy, cMyBP-C was significantly increased from baseline (49 ± 23 ng/l) in a time-dependent manner, peaking at 4 h (560 ± 273 ng/l). In a cohort of patients with non-ST segment elevation MI ( n = 176) from the SYNERGY trial, cMyBP-C serum levels were significantly higher (7,615 ± 4,514 ng/l) than those in a control cohort (416 ± 104 ng/l; n = 153). cMyBP-C is released in the blood rapidly after cardiac damage and therefore has the potential to positively mark the onset of MI.
Fibroblast engraftment in the decellularized mouse lung occurs via a β1-integrin-dependent, FAK-dependent pathway that is mediated by ERK and opposed by AKT
Authors: Sun Huanxing , Calle Elizabeth , Chen Xiaosong , Mathur Aditi , Zhu Yangyang , Mendez Julio , Zhao Liping , Niklason Laura , Peng Xueyan , Peng Hong , Herzog Erica L.
Published: December 2013

Creation of bioartificial organs has been enhanced by the development of strategies involving decellularized mammalian lung. Because fibroblasts critically support lung function through a number of mechanisms, study of these cells in the context of the decellularized lung has the potential to improve the structure and function of tissue-engineered lungs. We characterized the engraftment and survival of a mouse fibroblast cell line in decellularized rat lung slices and found a time-dependent increase in cell numbers assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, cell proliferation assessed by Ki67 staining, and minimal cell death assessed by TUNEL staining. We developed a repopulation index to allow quantification of cell survival that accounts for variation in cell density throughout the seeded scaffold. We then applied this method to the study of mouse lung scaffolds and found that decellularization of presliced mouse lungs produced matrices with preserved alveolar architecture and proteinaceous components including fibronectin, collagens I and IV, laminin, and elastin. Treatment with a β1-integrin-neutralizing antibody significantly reduced the repopulation index after 24 h of culture. Treatment with focal adhesion kinase (FAK) inhibitor and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor further reduced initial repopulation scores while treatment with AKT inhibitor increased initial scores. Rho-associated kinase inhibitor had no discernible effect. These data indicate that initial adhesion and survival of mouse fibroblasts in the decellularized mouse lung occur in a β1-integrin-dependent, FAK/ERK-dependent manner that is opposed by AKT.
Pulmonary surfactant synthesis after unilateral lung injury in mice
Authors: Lamonica Giulia , Amigoni Maria , Vedovelli Luca , Zambelli Vanessa , Scanziani Margherita , Bellani Giacomo , Grassi Alice , Simonato Manuela , Carnielli Virgilio P. , Cogo Paola E.
Published: December 2013

Aspiration pneumonitis can lead to alveolar surfactant dysfunction. We employed a murine model of unilateral aspiration to compare surfactant synthesis in the injured (I) and noninjured (NI) contralateral lung. Mice were instilled with hydrochloric acid in the right bronchus and, after 18 h, an intraperitoneal dose of deuterated water was administered as precursor of disaturated phosphatidylcholine (DSPC)-palmitate. Selected bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected at scheduled time points and lungs were removed. We measured DSPC-palmitate synthesis in lung tissue and secretion in BALF by gas chromatography-isotope ratio mass spectrometry, together with total proteins and myeloperoxidase activity (MPO) by spectrophotometry. BALF total proteins and MPO were significantly increased in the I lungs compared with NI and naïve control lungs. The DSPC pool size was significantly lower in the BALF of the I lungs compared with naïve controls. DSPC synthesis was accelerated in the I and NI lungs. DSPC secretion of the I lungs was similar to their respective naïve controls, and it was markedly lower compared with their respective NI contralateral lungs. DSPC synthesis and secretion were faster, especially in the NI lungs, compared with naïve control lungs, as a possible compensatory mechanism due to a cross-talk between the lungs triggered by inflammation, hyperventilation, and/or undetermined type II cell reaction to the injury.
Reliability Analysis of III-V Solar Cells Grown on Recycled GaAs Substrates and an Electroplated Nickel Substrate
Authors: Horng Ray-Hua , Tseng Ming-Chun , Lien Shui-Yang
Published: December 2013

This study involved analyzing the reliability of two types of III-V solar cells: (1) III-V solar cells grown on new and recycled gallium arsenide (GaAs) substrates and (2) the III-V solar cells transferred onto an electroplated nickel (Ni) substrate as III-V thin-film solar cells by using a cross-shaped pattern epitaxial lift-off (CPELO) process. The III-V solar cells were grown on new and recycled GaAs substrates to evaluate the reliability of the substrate. The recycled GaAs substrate was fabricated by using the CPELO process. The performance of the solar cells grown on the recycled GaAs substrate was affected by the uneven surface morphology of the recycled GaAs substrate, which caused the propagation of these dislocations into the subsequently grown active layer of the solar cell. The III-V solar cells were transferred onto an electroplated Ni substrate, which was also fabricated by using CPELO technology. The degradation of the III-V thin-film solar cell after conducting a thermal shock test could have been caused by microcracks or microvoids in the active layer or interface of the heterojunction, which resulted in the reduction of the external quantum efficiency response and the increase of recombination loss.
Spatial Downscaling of TRMM Precipitation Using Geostatistics and Fine Scale Environmental Variables
Authors: Park No-Wook
Published: December 2013

A geostatistical downscaling scheme is presented and can generate fine scale precipitation information from coarse scale Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) data by incorporating auxiliary fine scale environmental variables. Within the geostatistical framework, the TRMM precipitation data are first decomposed into trend and residual components. Quantitative relationships between coarse scale TRMM data and environmental variables are then estimated via regression analysis and used to derive trend components at a fine scale. Next, the residual components, which are the differences between the trend components and the original TRMM data, are then downscaled at a target fine scale via area-to-point kriging. The trend and residual components are finally added to generate fine scale precipitation estimates. Stochastic simulation is also applied to the residual components in order to generate multiple alternative realizations and to compute uncertainty measures. From an experiment using a digital elevation model (DEM) and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), the geostatistical downscaling scheme generated the downscaling results that reflected detailed characteristics with better predictive performance, when compared with downscaling without the environmental variables. Multiple realizations and uncertainty measures from simulation also provided useful information for interpretations and further environmental modeling.
Multiple Coexisting Attractors and Hysteresis in the Generalized Ueda Oscillator
Authors: Sun Kehui , Duo Li-kun A Di-li , Dong Yanqing , Wang Huihai , Zhong Ke
Published: December 2013

A periodically forced nonlinear oscillator called the generalized Ueda oscillator is proposed. The restoring force term of this equation consists of a nonlinear functionsgn(x)and an absolute function with a variant power. Dynamics is investigated by detailed numerical analysis as well as dynamic simulation, including the largest Lyapunov exponent, phase diagrams, and bifurcation diagrams. Multiple coexisting attractors and complex hysteresis phenomenon are observed. The results show that this system has rich dynamical behaviors, and it has a promising application in the fields of science and engineering.
The Safeguard of Audio Collections: A Computer Science Based Approach to Quality Control—The Case of the Sound Archive of the Arena di Verona
Authors: Bressan Federica , Rodà Antonio , Canazza Sergio , Fontana Federico , Bertani Roberta
Published: December 2013

In the field of multimedia, very little attention is given to the activities involved in the preservation of audio documents. At the same time, more and more archives storing audio and video documents face the problem of obsolescing and degrading media, which could largely benefit from the instruments and the methodologies of research in multimedia. This paper presents the methodology and the results of the Italian project REVIVAL, aimed at the development of a hardware/software platform to support the active preservation of the audio collection of the Fondazione Arena di Verona, one of the finest in Europe for the operatic genre, with a special attention on protocols and tools for quality control. On the scientific side, the most significant objectives achieved by the project are (i) the setup of a working environment inside the archive, (ii) the knowledge transfer to the archival personnel, (iii) the realization of chemical analyses on magnetic tapes in collaboration with experts in the fields of materials science and chemistry, and (iv) the development of original open-source software tools. On the cultural side, the recovery, the safeguard, and the access to unique copies of unpublished live recordings of artists the calibre of Domingo and Pavarotti are of great musicological and economical value.
Naive Bayes‐Guided Bat Algorithm for Feature Selection
Authors: Taha Ahmed Majid , Mustapha Aida , Chen Soong-Der
Published: December 2013

When the amount of data and information is said to double in every 20 months or so, feature selection has become highly important and beneficial. Further improvements in feature selection will positively affect a wide array of applications in fields such as pattern recognition, machine learning, or signal processing. Bio‐inspired method called Bat Algorithm hybridized with a Naive Bayes classifier has been presented in this work. The performance of the proposed feature selection algorithm was investigated using twelve benchmark datasets from different domains and was compared to three other well‐known feature selection algorithms. Discussion focused on four perspectives: number of features, classification accuracy, stability, and feature generalization. The results showed that BANB significantly outperformed other algorithms in selecting lower number of features, hence removing irrelevant, redundant, or noisy features while maintaining the classification accuracy. BANB is also proven to be more stable than other methods and is capable of producing more general feature subsets.
P3HT:PCBM Incorporated with Silicon Nanoparticles as Photoactive Layer in Efficient Organic Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Chang Shang-Chou , Hsiao Yu-Jen , Li To-Sing
Published: December 2013

Silicon nanoparticles doped poly(3‐hexylthiophene) and [6,6]‐phenyl C61‐butyric acid methyl ester blends (P3HT:PCBM: Si NP) have been produced as the photoactive layer of organic photovoltaic devices (OPVs). The silicon nanoparticles’ size is between 80 and 100 nm checked by transmission electron microscope (TEM). The 0.35 wt% Si NP doping OPVs exhibit higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) than other OPVs. The PCE of the OPVs increases from 3.01% to 3.38% mainly due to increasing short‐circuit current density from 8.38 to 9.48 mA/cm2, while the open‐circuit voltage remains the same. The Si NP can provide extra exciton separation and electron pathways in hybrid solar cells.
Stability and Bifurcation Analysis of a Nonlinear Discrete Logistic Model with Delay
Authors: Wu Daiyong , Zhang Hai , Cao Jinde , Hayat Tasawar
Published: December 2013

We consider a nonlinear discrete logistic model with delay. The characteristic equation of the linearized system at the positive equilibrium is a polynomial equation involving high order terms. We obtain the conditions ensuring the asymptotic stability of the positive equilibrium and the existence of Neimark-Sacker bifurcation, with respect to the parameter of the model. Based on the bifurcation theory, we discuss Neimark-Sacker bifurcation direction and the stability of bifurcated solutions. Finally, some numerical simulations are performed to illustrate the theoretical results.
Microsatellite Instability in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Study of a Brazilian Population
Authors: Stur Elaine , Wolfgramm Eldamaria de Vargas , de Castro Neto Allan Kardec , Maia Lucas de Lima , Agostini Lidiane Pignaton , Peterle Gabriela Tonini , Mendes Suzanny Oliveira , dos Santos Marcelos , de Paula Flávia , Louro Iúri Drumond
Published: December 2013

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the sixth most common solid tumor in the world. Apart from known risk factors for head and neck SCC (HNSCC), there is a lack of information about genetic susceptibility regions that may play pivotal roles in the tumorigenesis of these tumors. Therefore, we have aimed to analyze the presence of genetic instability in microsatellite markers distributed in the genome. Microsatellite instability (MSI) was found in 6 HNSCC patients, among which only one was detected by the D17S250 marker, whereas the other 5 occurrences (13.5%) were detected by the D3S1611 marker. No instability was found at markers D5S346, D10S197, D11S922, and D11S988. MSI detected by D3S1611 marker was present in 3 (14.3%) moderately differentiated tumors and in 2 (25.0%) poorly differentiated tumors, but no statistical significance was found. Genotypic frequencies for all markers showed no statistically significant distribution alteration, neither were they related to differentiation grade or patient age. Marker D3S1611 is located in the MLH1 gene, which is part of the mismatch repair system (MMR), helping to maintain genomic stability. We have found a higher rate of D3S1611 MSI in older patients, suggesting that this marker may be affected by aging processes in the DNA repair machinery.