bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Paternal Depression from the Antenatal to the Postpartum Period and the Relationships between Antenatal and Postpartum Depression among Fathers in Hong Kong
Authors: Koh Y. W. , Chui C. Y. , Tang C. S. K. , Lee A. M.
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Despite the fact that maternal perinatal mental health problems have been extensively studied and addressed to be a significant health problem, the literature on paternal perinatal mental health problems is relatively scarce. The present study aims at determining the prevalence of paternal perinatal depression and identifying the risk factors and the relationship between antenatal and postpartum depression.Methodology. 622 expectant fathers were recruited from regional maternal clinics. The expectant fathers were assessed using standardized and validated psychological instruments on 3 time points including early pregnancy, late pregnancy, and six weeks postpartum.Results. Results showed that a significant proportion of expectant fathers manifested depressive symptoms during the perinatal period. Paternal antenatal depression could significantly predict higher level of paternal postpartum depression. Psychosocial risk factors were consistently associated with paternal depression in different time points.Conclusions. The present study points to the need for greater research and clinical attention to paternal depression given that it is a highly prevalent problem and could be detrimental to their spouse and children development. The present findings contribute to theoretical basis of the prevalence and risk factors of paternal perinatal depression and have implications of the design of effective identification, prevention, and interventions of these clinical problems.
The Solvability and Optimal Controls for Some Fractional Impulsive Equations of Order1< α<2
Authors: Liu Xianghu , Liu Zhenhai , Bin Maojun
Published: January 2014

We study the existence of solutions and optimal controls for some fractional impulsive equations of order1< α<2. By means of Gronwall’s inequality and Leray-Schauder’s fixed point theorem, the sufficient condition for the existence of solutions and optimal controls is presented. Finally, an example is given to illustrate our main results.
Production Scheduling and Customer Orders Assignment in a Three-Level Supply Chain
Authors: Sadeghi Naieni Fard F. , Naderi B. , Akbari A. A.
Published: January 2014

In the classical production-distribution centers problem, only assignment of customers, distribution centers, and suppliers is determined. This paper extends the problem of production-distribution centers assignment by considering sequencing decisions in the supply network. Nowadays, meeting delivery time of products is a competitive benefit; therefore, the objective is to minimize total tardiness. This problem is mathematically formulated by a mixed integer programming model. Then, using the proposed model, small instances of the problem can be optimally solved by GAMS software. Moreover, two metaheuristics based on variable neighborhood search and simulated annealing are proposed to solve large instances of the problem. Finally, performance of the proposed metaheuristics is evaluated by two sets of balanced and unbalanced instances. The computational results show the superiority of the variable neighborhood search algorithm.
Wild Mushrooms in Nepal: Some Potential Candidates as Antioxidant and ACE‐Inhibition Sources
Authors: Hai Bang Tran , Suhara Hiroto , Doi Katsumi , Ishikawa Hiroya , Fukami Katsuya , Parajuli Gopal Prasad , Katakura Yoshinori , Yamashita Shuntaro , Watanabe Kazuo , Adhikari Mahesh Kumar , Manandhar Hira Kaji , Kondo Ryuichiro , Shimizu Kuniyoshi
Published: January 2014

Twenty‐nine mushrooms collected in the mountainous areas of Nepal were analyzed for antioxidant activity by different methods, including Folin‐Ciocalteu, ORAC, ABTS, and DPPH assays. Intracellular H2O2‐scavenging activity was also performed on HaCaT cells. The results showed that phenolic compounds are the main antioxidant of the mushrooms. Among studied samples, Inonotus andersonii, and Phellinus gilvus exhibited very high antioxidant activity with the phenolic contents up to 310.8 and 258.7 mg GAE/g extracts, respectively. The H2O2‐scavenging assay on cells also revealed the potential of these mushrooms in the prevention of oxidative stress. In term of ACE‐inhibition, results showed that Phlebia tremellosa would be a novel and promising candidate for antihypertensive studies. This mushroom exhibited even higher in vitro ACE‐inhibition activity than Ganoderma lingzhi, with the IC50 values of the two mushrooms being 32 μg/mL and 2 μg/mL, respectively. This is the first time biological activities of mushrooms collected in Nepal were reported. Information from this study should be a valuable reference for future studies on antioxidant and ACE‐inhibitory activities of mushrooms.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Photocatalytic Activity of Zn-Doped SnO2/Zn2SnO4Coupled Nanocomposites
Authors: Jia Tiekun , Zhao Junwei , Fu Fang , Deng Zhao , Wang Weimin , Fu Zhengyi , Meng Fancheng
Published: January 2014

Zn-doped SnO2/Zn2SnO4nanocomposites were prepared via a two-step hydrothermal synthesis method. The as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy, and adsorption-desorption isotherms. The results of FESEM and TEM showed that the as-prepared Zn-doped SnO2/Zn2SnO4nanocomposites are composed of numerous nanoparticles with the size ranging from 20 nm to 50 nm. The specific surface area of the as-prepared Zn-doped SnO2/Zn2SnO4nanocomposites is estimated to be 71.53 m2/g by the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by the degradation of methylene blue (MB), and the resulting showed that Zn-doped SnO2/Zn2SnO4nanocomposites exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity due to their higher specific surface area and surface charge carrier transfer.
Existence of Limit Cycles in the Solow Model with Delayed-Logistic Population Growth
Authors: Bianca Carlo , Guerrini Luca
Published: January 2014

This paper is devoted to the existence and stability analysis of limit cycles in a delayed mathematical model for the economy growth. Specifically the Solow model is further improved by inserting the time delay into the logistic population growth rate. Moreover, by choosing the time delay as a bifurcation parameter, we prove that the system loses its stability and a Hopf bifurcation occurs when time delay passes through critical values. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out for supporting the analytical results.
A Crispy Delicacy: Augosoma Beetle as Alternative Source of Protein in East Cameroon
Authors: Muafor F. J. , Levang P. , Le Gall P.
Published: January 2014

Despite the fact that the exoskeleton of the Augosoma centaurus (Dynastinae) is hard and difficult to chew, this insect is often gathered in Eastern Cameroon for food in periods of availability. Nine ethnic groups in Eastern Cameroon were surveyed to understand the role of this insect in assuring food security, using quantitative and qualitative social science approaches. Both the larvae and adult stages of this beetle are habitually consumed in the areas studied. In total, about 65% of consumers prefer consuming the adults, while 35% prefer consuming the larvae. About 24% of consumers derive the same satisfaction from the consumption of Augosoma or other edible insects. Close to 39% of consumers prefer other edible insects to Augosoma, while 37% prefer the consumption of Augosoma to other edible insects. This beetle usually occurs at a period when other edible insects are not available, therefore constituting a good source of alternative protein in this region where poverty, poaching, and biodiversity erosion are still a major problem. Furthermore, the gathering of this beetle for food is equally a means of biological pest control of raffia plants and a tool to enhance community-based conservation of the areas global biodiversity.
Cardioprotective Activity ofN′′,N′′′-Bis[5-methyl-2-oxo-1,2-dihydro-3H-indol-3-ylidene]carbonohydrazide Derivative against Doxorubicin Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Tabassum Salma , Gangarapu Kiran , Thumma Gouthami , Manda Sarangapani , Anreddy Rama Narsimha Reddy
Published: January 2014

The present study was aimed at evaluating the cardioprotective effect of novel syntheticN′′,N′′′-bis[5-methyl-2-oxo-1,2-dihydro-3H-indol-3-ylidene]carbonohydrazide derivative, by estimating the various biomarkers like creatine kinase-myoglobin (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and triglycerides (TG) in plasma and antioxidants like catalase, superoxide dismutase in heart tissue homogenate, and histopathological examination of heart tissues. The results showed the significant (P<0.05) dose dependent decrease in elevated cardiotoxic biomarkers CK-MB, LDH, AST, and TG levels. The histopathological studies of heart tissues showed mild degeneration of muscle bundles and less interstitial edematous changes. The results showed the significant (P<0.05) dose dependent increase in antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase in heart tissue homogenates. These observations enable us to conclude thatN′′,N′′′-bis[5-methyl-2-oxo-1,2-dihydro-3H-indol-3-ylidene]carbonohydrazide has cardioprotective activity against doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity.
Comment on “Conservation Laws of Two (2 + 1)-Dimensional Nonlinear Evolution Equations with Higher-Order Mixed Derivatives”
Authors: Wei Long , Wang Yang
Published: January 2014

In a recent paper (Zhang (2013)), the author claims that he has proposed two rules to modify Ibragimov’s theorem on conservation laws to “ensure the theorem can be applied to nonlinear evolution equations with any mixed derivatives.” In this letter, we analysis the paper. Indeed, the so-called “modification rules” are needless and the theorem of Ibragimov can be applied to construct conservation laws directly for nonlinear equations with any mixed derivatives as long as the formal Lagrangian is rewritten in symmetric form. Moreover, the conservation laws obtained by the so-called “modification rules” in the paper under discussion are equivalent to the one obtained by Ibragimov’s theorem.
Design Multilayer Antireflection Coatings for Terrestrial Solar Cells
Authors: Zhan Feng , Li Zhipeng , Shen Xiaoming , He Huan , Zeng Jianmin
Published: January 2014

In order to analyze the influence of methods to design antireflection coatings (ARCs) on reflectivity of broadband solar cells, we provide detailed analyses about the ARC coupled with a window layer and the refractive index dispersion effect of each layer. By multidimensional matrix data simulation, two methods were employed to measure the composite reflection of a SiO2/ZnS double-layer ARC within the spectral ranges of 300–870 nm (dual junction) and 300–1850 nm (triple junction) under AM1.5 solar radiation. A comparison study, between the results obtained from the commonly used weighted average reflectance method (WAR) and that from the introduced effective average reflectance method (EAR), shows that the optimization of ARC by EAR method is convenient and feasible.
Stability Analysis of Nonlinear Systems with Slope Restricted Nonlinearities
Authors: Liu Xian , Du Jiajia , Gao Qing
Published: January 2014

The problem of absolute stability of Lur’e systems with sector and slope restricted nonlinearities is revisited. Novel time-domain and frequency-domain criteria are established by using the Lyapunov method and the well-known Kalman-Yakubovich-Popov (KYP) lemma. The criteria strengthen some existing results. Simulations are given to illustrate the efficiency of the results.
Effect of Noradrenaline on the Virulence Properties ofCampylobacterSpecies
Authors: Aroori Sree V. , Cogan Tristan A. , Humphrey Tom J.
Published: January 2014

Campylobacterspecies cause a spectrum of illnesses in humans. The type of illness and the outcome is dependent on the virulence of the infecting pathogen strain and host immune status. Acute stress can seriously compromise host immunity and increase susceptibility to infection. Noradrenaline (NA) is a stress hormone. Several studies have shown that it stimulated growth and increased the pathogenicity of organisms includingE. coliandCampylobacter jejuni. However, the effect of NA on otherCampylobacterspecies is unknown. We have examined the effect of NA on growth rate, motility, invasion of T84 epithelial cells, and colonisation of chickens by diverseCampylobacterspecies.Campylobactercultures grown with NA had reduced lag phases, increased growth rates, and higher final optical densities than controls. The motility ofCampylobacterwas also significantly increased in the presence of noradrenaline. Some of theCampylobacterstrains tested also showed increased invasion of T84 epithelial cells, greater breakdown of tight junctions, and an enhanced potential to colonise chickens. Our results show that noradrenaline-induced enhancement of virulence ofCampylobactercan influence the outcome of infection.
Development of a Novel Disturbance Observer Based Fractional Order PD Controller for a Gun Control System
Authors: Gao Qiang , Zheng Liang , Chen Jilin , Wang Li , Hou Yuanlong
Published: January 2014

Motion control of gun barrels is an ongoing topic for the development of gun control equipment (GCE) with excellent performances. In this paper, a novel disturbance observer (DOB) based fractional order PD (FOPD) control strategy is proposed for the GCE. By adopting the DOB, the control system behaves as if it were the nominal closed-loop system in the absence of disturbances and uncertainties. The optimal control parameters of the FOPD are determined from the loop-shaping perspective, and theQ-filter of the DOB is deliberately designed with consideration of system robustness. The linear frame of the proposed control system will enable the analysis process more convenient. The disturbance rejection properties and the tracking performances of the control system are investigated by both numerical and experimental tests, the results demonstrate that the proposed DOB based FOPD control system is of more robustness, and it is much more suitable for the gun control system with strong nonlinearity and disturbance.
A Case of Adenosarcoma of the Uterus
Authors: Taga Shigeki , Sawada Mari , Nagai Aya , Yamamoto Dan , Hayase Ryoji
Published: January 2014

Adenosarcoma is a rare tumor which consists of benign glandular epithelium and malignant mesenchymal component. Here we report a case of adenosarcoma of the uterine corpus.Case Presentation. A 59-year-old woman presented with vaginal bleeding and visited a local clinic. She had a uterine tumor pointed out and was referred to our hospital. Ultrasound scans revealed a large heterogeneous mass occupying the whole uterine cavity. Cytological test of endometrium was performed but the result was negative. A fractional endometrial curettage revealed no malignancy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a heterogeneous solid tumor of 77 × 76 mm. Total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed. On gross examination, the tumor was arising from the uterine body and occupied the whole uterine cavity. Histopathological examination revealed phyllodes-like architecture on low magnification　and　periglandular cuffing of tumor cells. The lesion was confined to the uterus. Histopathological final diagnosis was adenosarcoma. Her postoperative course was uneventful and she was discharged without postoperative treatment and remains alive without disease 6 months after the surgery.
The Patient’s Experience of the Psychosocial Process That Influences Identity following Stroke Rehabilitation: A Metaethnography
Authors: Hole E. , Stubbs B. , Roskell C. , Soundy A.
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose.Patient experience is increasingly being recognised as a key health outcome due to its positive correlation with quality of life and treatment compliance. The aim of this study was to create a model of how patient’s experiences of rehabilitation after stroke influence their outcome.Methods.A metaethnography of qualitative articles published since 2000 was undertaken. A systematic search of four databases using the keywords was competed. Original studies were included if at least 50% of their data from results was focused on stroke survivors experiences and if they reflected an overarching experience of stroke rehabilitation. Relevant papers were appraised for quality using the COREQ tool. Pata analysis as undertaken using traditional processes of extracting, interpreting, translating, and synthesizing the included studies.Results.Thirteen studies were included. Two themes (1) evolution of identity and (2) psychosocial constructs that influence experience were identified. A model of recovery was generated.Conclusion.The synthesis model conceptualizes how the recovery of stroke survivors’ sense of identity changes during rehabilitation illustrating changes and evolution over time. Positive experiences are shaped by key psychosocial concepts such as hope, social support, and rely on good self-efficacy which is influenced by both clinical staff and external support.
Characterization of Modified Tapioca Starch Solutions and Their Sprays for High Temperature Coating Applications
Authors: Naz M. Y. , Sulaiman S. A. , Ariwahjoedi B. , Shaari Ku Zilati Ku
Published: January 2014

The objective of the research was to understand and improve the unusual physical and atomization properties of the complexes/adhesives derived from the tapioca starch by addition of borate and urea. The characterization of physical properties of the synthesized adhesives was carried out by determining the effect of temperature, shear rate, and mass concentration of thickener/stabilizer on the complex viscosity, density, and surface tension. In later stage, phenomenological analyses of spray jet breakup of heated complexes were performed in still air. Using a high speed digital camera, the jet breakup dynamics were visualized as a function of the system input parameters. The further analysis of the grabbed images confirmed the strong influence of the input processing parameters on full cone spray patternation. It was also predicted that the heated starch adhesive solutions generate a dispersed spray pattern by utilizing the partial evaporation of the spraying medium. Below 40°C of heating temperature, the radial spray cone width and angle did not vary significantly with increasing Reynolds and Weber numbers at early injection phases leading to increased macroscopic spray propagation. The discharge coefficient, mean flow rate, and mean flow velocity were significantly influenced by the load pressure but less affected by the temperature.
Spinal Fusion in the Next Generation: Gene and Cell Therapy Approaches
Authors: Barba Marta , Cicione Claudia , Bernardini Camilla , Campana Vincenzo , Pagano Ernesto , Michetti Fabrizio , Logroscino Giandomenico , Lattanzi Wanda
Published: January 2014

Bone fusion represents a challenge in the orthopedics practice, being especially indicated for spine disorders. Spinal fusion can be defined as the bony union between two vertebral bodies obtained through the surgical introduction of an osteoconductive, osteoinductive, and osteogenic compound. Autogenous bone graft provides all these three qualities and is considered the gold standard. However, a high morbidity is associated with the harvest procedure. Intensive research efforts have been spent during the last decades to develop new approaches and technologies for successful spine fusion. In recent years, cell and gene therapies have attracted great interest from the scientific community. The improved knowledge of both mesenchymal stem cell biology and osteogenic molecules allowed their use in regenerative medicine, representing attractive approaches to achieve bone regeneration also in spinal surgery applications. In this review we aim to describe the developing gene- and cell-based bone regenerative approaches as promising future trends in spine fusion.
Mitochondrial DNA Haplogroups and Susceptibility to Prostate Cancer in a Colombian Population
Authors: Cano D. , Gomez C. F. , Ospina N. , Cajigas J. A. , Groot H. , Andrade R. E. , Torres M. M.
Published: January 2014

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most common cancers and the second leading cause of mortality from cancer in Colombian men. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroups have been associated with the risk of PC. Several studies have demonstrated dramatic differences regarding the risk of PC among men from different ethnic backgrounds. The present study was aimed at assessing the relationship between mtDNA haplogroups and PC. The mitochondrial DNA hypervariable segment I (HSV-1) was sequenced in a population-based study covering 168 cases (CA) and 140 unrelated healthy individuals as a control group (CG). A total of 92 different mtDNA sequences were found in CA and 59 were found in the CG. According to the geographical origin attributed to each mtDNA haplogroup, 82% of the mtDNA sequences found in both groups were Native Americans (A, B, C, and D). The most frequent was A (41.1%CA–42.1%CG), followed by B (22.0%CA–21.4%CG), C (12.0%CA–11.4%CG), and D (6%CA–10.0%CG). A lower percentage of European haplogroups (U, H, K, J, M, T, and HV) were also found (13.1%CA–12.9%CG), likewise African haplogroups (L0, L1, L2, and L3) (6.5%CA–2.1%CG). There were no statistically significant differences between the distribution of mtDNA haplogroups in CA and the CG in this study.
Impact of Genes and Proportional Contribution of Parental Genotypes to Inheritance of Root Yield and Sugar Content in Diploid Hybrids of Sugar Beet
Authors: Stancic Ivica , Zivic Jelica , Petrovic Sasa , Knezevic Desimir
Published: January 2014

This paper analyzes the impact of genes and proportional contribution of parental genotypes on the inheritance of root yield and sugar content in diploid hybrids of sugar beet. The survey included two diploid male-sterile monogerm lines and three single (SC) male-sterile hybrids as maternal components, while three multigerm diploids were used as pollinators. The partitioning of genotypic variance into additive and dominant components was performed by half sibling (HS) and full sibling (FS) covariance. The proportional contribution of individual components of crossbreeding (lines, testers, and interactions) was exhibited in the expression of certain characteristics of F1generation. Genotypic variance components showed a significant effect of nonadditive gene action (dominance) in the inheritance of root yield and sugar content, while the additive effect of genes was less significant. Maternal components had a greater proportional contribution to root yield, while lines, pollinators, and their interactions had an equal contribution to sugar content.
Thapsigargin Induces Apoptosis by Impairing Cytoskeleton Dynamics in Human Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Wang Fei , Liu Da-zhong , Xu Hao , Li Yi , Wang Wei , Liu Bai-lu , Zhang Lin-you
Published: January 2014

The objective of this study was performed to investigate the effects of thapsigargin on apoptosis, actin cytoskeletal dynamics, and actin cytoskeletal proteins in human lung adenocarcinoma cell. Thapsigargin is a specific irreversible inhibitor of ER calcium-ATPase, which may promote ER stress by depletion of lumenal calcium stores and show potential to induce cell death. The effects of thapsigargin on the apoptosis in A549 cells were assayed by Hoechst staining. Moreover, the F-actin staining by Rhodamine-phalloidin and RhoA antibody for cytoskeleton organizations were applied to A549 cells. To confirm the impairment of cytoskeletal dynamics treated with thapsigargin, western blots were applied to analyze the protein levels of p-Cofilin-1 (Ser3), Cofilin-1, and pPaxillin (Tyr118), as well as RhoA and pS6 (S240/244). Results suggest that thapsigargin may induce cell death in A549 cells with a time- and dose-dependent manner. The F-actin fibers and RhoA signals are also reduced with a time- and dose-dependent manner by thapsigargin treatment. The phosphorylation forms of Cofilin-1 and paxillin are attenuated by 1 μM thapsigargin treatment for 24 h. These alternations may be caused by the inhibition of of mTORC1 activities (indicated by pS6 (Ser240/244)) and RhoA pathways after thapsigargin treatment. The present findings highlight important roles of calcium entry in cytoskeleton organization and apoptosis in human lung adenocarcinoma cells and will help to set a stage to the clinical treatment of cancer cell metastasis.
Development of Risperidone PLGA Microspheres
Authors: D’Souza Susan , Faraj Jabar A. , Giovagnoli Stefano , DeLuca Patrick P.
Published: January 2014

The aim of this study was to design and evaluate biodegradable PLGA microspheres for sustained delivery of Risperidone, with an eventual goal of avoiding combination therapy for the treatment of schizophrenia. Two PLGA copolymers (50 : 50 and 75 : 25) were used to prepare four microsphere formulations of Risperidone. The microspheres were characterized by several in vitro techniques. In vivo studies in male Sprague-Dawley rats at 20 and 40 mg/kg doses revealed that all formulations exhibited an initial burst followed by sustained release of the active moiety. Additionally, formulations prepared with 50 : 50 PLGA had a shorter duration of action and lower cumulative AUC levels than the 75 : 25 PLGA microspheres. A simulation of multiple dosing at weekly or 15-day regimen revealed pulsatile behavior for all formulations with steady state being achieved by the second dose. Overall, the clinical use of Formulations A, B, C, or D will eliminate the need for combination oral therapy and reduce time to achieve steady state, with a smaller washout period upon cessation of therapy. Results of this study prove the suitability of using PLGA copolymers of varying composition and molecular weight to develop sustained release formulations that can tailor in vivo behavior and enhance pharmacological effectiveness of the drug.
Monitoring Technology for Vehicle Loading Status Based on the Analysis of Suspension Vibration Characters
Authors: Li Shiwu , Yao Xueping , Yang Zhifa , Wang Lihong , Sun Wencai
Published: January 2014

Monitoring and early warning of vehicle risk status was one of the key technologies of transportation security, and real-time monitoring load status could reduce the transportation accidents effectively. In order to obtain vehicle load status information, vehicle characters of suspension were analyzed and simulated under different working conditions. On the basis of this, the device that can detect suspension load with overload protection structure was designed and a method of monitored vehicle load status was proposed. The monitoring platform of vehicle load status was constructed and developed for a FAW truck and system was tested on level-A road and body twist lane. The results show that the measurement error is less than 5% and horizontal centre-of-mass of vehicle was positioned accurately. The platform enables providing technical support for the real-time monitoring and warning of vehicles risk status in transit.
Regression Analysis of the Effect of Bias Voltage on Nano‐ and Macrotribological Properties of Diamond‐Like Carbon Films Deposited by a Filtered Cathodic Vacuum Arc Ion‐Plating Method
Authors: Miyake Shojiro , Shindo Takanori , Miyake Masatoshi
Published: January 2014

Diamond‐like carbon (DLC) films are deposited by bend filtered cathodic vacuum arc (FCVA) technique with DC and pulsed bias voltage. The effects of varying bias voltage on nanoindentation and nanowear properties were evaluated by atomic force microscopy. DLC films deposited with DC bias voltage of −50 V exhibited the greatest hardness at approximately 50 GPa, a low modulus of dissipation, low elastic modulus to nanoindentation hardness ratio, and high nanowear resistance. Nanoindentation hardness was positively correlated with the Raman peak ratio Id/Ig, whereas wear depth was negatively correlated with this ratio. These nanotribological properties highly depend on the films’ nanostructures. The tribological properties of the FCVA‐DLC films were also investigated using a ball‐on‐disk test. The average friction coefficient of DLC films deposited with DC bias voltage was lower than that of DLC films deposited with pulse bias voltage. The friction coefficient calculated from the ball‐on‐disk test was correlated with the nanoindentation hardness in dry conditions. However, under boundary lubrication conditions, the friction coefficient and specific wear rate had little correlation with nanoindentation hardness, and wear behavior seemed to be influenced by other factors such as adhesion strength between the film and substrate.
A Novel Scheme Adaptive Hybrid Dislocated Synchronization for Two Identical and Different Memristor Chaotic Oscillator Systems with Uncertain Parameters
Authors: Chen Jie , Sun Junwei , Chi Ming , Cheng Xin-Ming
Published: January 2014

The drive system can synchronize with the response system by the scaling factor in the traditional projective synchronization. This paper proposes a novel adaptive hybrid dislocated synchronization with uncertain parameters scheme for chaos synchronization using the Lyapunov stability theory. The drive system is synchronized by the sum of hybrid dislocated state variables for the response system. By designing effective hybrid dislocated adaptive controller and hybrid dislocated adaptive law of the parameters estimation, we investigate the synchronization of two identical memristor chaotic oscillator systems and two different memristor chaotic oscillator systems with uncertain parameters. Finally, the numerical simulation examples are provided to show the effectiveness of our method.
New Green Polymeric Composites Based on Hemp and Natural Rubber Processed by Electron Beam Irradiation
Authors: Stelescu Maria-Daniela , Manaila Elena , Craciun Gabriela , Dumitrascu Maria
Published: January 2014

A new polymeric composite based on natural rubber reinforced with hemp has been processed by electron beam irradiation and characterized by several methods. The mechanical characteristics: gel fraction, crosslink density, water uptake, swelling parameters, and FTIR of natural rubber/hemp fiber composites have been investigated as a function of the hemp content and absorbed dose. Physical and mechanical properties present a significant improvement as a result of adding hemp fibres in blends. Our experiments showed that the hemp fibers have a reinforcing effect on natural rubber similar to mineral fillers (chalk, carbon black, silica). The crosslinking rates of samples, measured using the Flory-Rehner equation, increase as a result of the amount of hemp in blends and the electron beam irradiation dose increasing. The swelling parameters of samples significantly depend on the amount of hemp in blends, because the latter have hydrophilic characteristics.
Characteristics of Heavy Metals and Pb Isotopic Composition in Sediments Collected from the Tributaries in Three Gorges Reservoir, China
Authors: Gao Bo , Zhou Huaidong , Huang Yong , Wang Yuchun , Gao Jijun , Liu Xiaobo
Published: January 2014

The concentrations, distribution, accumulation, and potential ecological risk of heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni, As, Pb, Cd, and Hg) in sediments from the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) tributaries were determined and studied. Pb isotopic compositions in sediments were also measured to effectively identify the potential Pb sources. The results showed that the average concentrations of heavy metals in sediment of TGR tributaries were higher than the local background values of soils and sediments in China. The assessment by Geoaccumulation Index indicated that Cu, Ni, and Hg were at the “slightly polluted” level and Cd was ranked as the “moderately polluted” level in tributary sediments of TGR. The assessment by Potential Ecological Risk Index showed that Hg and Cd were the predominant elements in tributary sediments in TGR. The Pb isotopic ratios in sediments varied from 1.171 to 1.202 for206Pb/207Pb and from 2.459 to 2.482 for208Pb/207Pb in TGR. All Pb isotopic ratios in sediments were similar to those from coal combustion, lead ores (the mining activities and smelting process), and cement material, indicating that these anthropogenic inputs may be the main sources for Pb pollution in sediments of TGR tributaries.
The Response of Circulating Leptin Levels to Exercise Stress Testing in Subjects Diagnosed with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Pop Dana , Dădârlat Alexandra , Bodizs Gyorgy , Stanca Liana , Zdrenghea Dumitru
Published: January 2014

Aim. To assess the plasma leptin responses after exercise stress testing in patients with metabolic syndrome (MS). Material and Methods. We investigated 67 patients with MS, with mean age of 55±7 years. They underwent exercise stress testing on cycloergometer. The lot was divided into three groups: group 1—10 patients with a true positive test, group 2—18 patients with a true negative test, and group 3—39 patients with a false negative test. Leptin levels were measured using the ELISA method. Results. Leptin levels decreased after effort in patients with MS (9.42±11.08 ng/mL before and 8.18±11.5 ng/mL after the exercise stress test, P=0.0005, r=0.874). In groups 1 (8.98±9.09 at rest versus 5.98±8.73 ng/mL after the exercise test, P=0.002) and 3 (8.6±10.53 at rest versus 6.91 ± 9.07 ng/mL, P=0.0005), lower leptin levels were recorded immediately after exercise testing. Leptin levels were not significantly lower in group 2 before effort (9.49±11.36 ng/ml) and after (9.46±13.81 ng/mL). We found no correlation between leptinemia and exercise stress testing parameters, regardless of group. Conclusion. Our research showed that short-term exercise lowers leptin levels in coronary patients, without a relationship between its parameters and leptin values.
Research on RBV Control Strategy of Large Angle Maneuver
Authors: Xu Jiangtao , Luo Na , Fu Yu , Wang Litong , Wu Xiande
Published: January 2014

Considering the hypersonic aerospace vehicle, with high dynamic, strong varying parameters, strong nonlinear, strong coupling, and the complicated flight environment, conventional flight control methods based on linear system may become invalid. To the high precision and reliable control problem of this vehicle, nonlinear flight control strategy based on neural network robust adaptive dynamic inversion is proposed. Firstly, considering the nonlinear characteristics of aerodynamic coefficients varying with Mach numbers, attack angle, and sideslip angle, the complete nonlinear 6-DOF model of RBV is established. Secondly, based on the time-scale separation, using the nonlinear dynamic inversion control strategy achieves the pseudolinear decoupling of RBV. And then, using the neural network with single hidden layer approximates the dynamic inversion error for system model uncertainty. Next, the external disturbance and network approximating error are suppressed by robust adaptive control. Finally, using Lyapunov’s theory proves that all error signals of closed loop system are uniformly bounded finally under this control strategy. Nonlinear simulation verifies the feasibility and validity of this control strategy to the RBV control system.
Video Conferences through the Internet: How to Survive in a Hostile Environment
Authors: Fernández Carlos , Saldana Jose , Fernández-Navajas Julián , Sequeira Luis , Casadesus Luis
Published: January 2014

This paper analyzes and compares two different video conference solutions, widely used in corporate and home environments, with a special focus on the mechanisms used for adapting the traffic to the network status. The results show how these mechanisms are able to provide a good quality in the hostile environment of the public Internet, a best effort network without delay or delivery guarantees. Both solutions are evaluated in a laboratory, where different network impairments (bandwidth limit, delay, and packet loss) are set, in both the uplink and the downlink, and the reaction of the applications is measured. The tests show how these solutions modify their packet size and interpacket time, in order to increase or reduce the sent data. One of the solutions also uses a scalable video codec, able to adapt the traffic to the network status and to the end devices.
Hydrothermal Preparation and Characterization of Ultralong Strontium-Substituted Hydroxyapatite Whiskers Using Acetamide as Homogeneous Precipitation Reagent
Authors: Xu Jianqiang , Yang Yaoqi , Wan Rong , Shen Yuhui , Zhang Weibin
Published: January 2014

The ultralong strontium- (Sr-) substituted hydroxyapatite (SrHAp) whiskers were successfully prepared using acetamide as homogeneous precipitation reagent. The effect of the Sr substitution amount on the lattice constants and proliferation of human osteoblast cells (MG-63) was further investigated. The results showed that the SrHAp whiskers with diameter of 0.2–12 μm and ultralong length up to 200 μm were obtained and the Sr substitution level could be facilely tailored by regulating the initial molar ratio of Sr/(Sr + Ca) in raw materials. The Sr2+replaced part of Ca2+and the lattice constants increased apparently with the increase of the Sr substitution amount. Compared with the pure HAp whiskers, the Sr substitution apparently stimulated the proliferation of MG-63 at certain extracted concentrations. Our study suggested that the obtained SrHAp whiskers might be used as bioactive and mechanical reinforcement materials for hard tissue regeneration applications.
Free Radicals Scavenging Capacity, Antidiabetic and Antihypertensive Activities of Flavonoid‐Rich Fractions from Leaves of Trichilia emetica and Opilia amentacea in an Animal Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Konaté Kiessoun , Yomalan Kassi , Sytar Oksana , Zerbo Patrice , Brestic Marian , Patrick Van Damme , Gagniuc Paul , Barro Nicolas
Published: January 2014

Trichilia emetica and Opilia amentacea traditional Burkinabe medicinal plants were investigated to determine their therapeutic potential to inhibit key enzymes in carbohydrate metabolism, which has relevance to the management of type 2 diabetes. In vitro and in vivo antioxidant and antihypertensive potential and antilipidemia and antihyperglycemia activities in an animal model of type 2 diabetes mellitus have been studied. The antioxidant activity of the flavonoids from leaves of Trichilia emetica and Opilia amentacea has been evaluated using β‐carotene‐linoleic acid system, 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl inhibitory activity, chelation of iron (II) ions, and lipid peroxidation which showed more pronounced antioxidant capacities of Trichilia emetica. Total cholesterol concentrations decreased in an animal model of type 2 diabetes mellitus under effects of flavonoid‐rich fractions from leaves of Trichilia emetica and Opilia amentacea has been observed. Extract of flavonoid‐rich fractions from Trichilia emetica shown maximum radical scavenging activity and possessed marked antiamylase activity which may be due to the presence of certain secondary metabolites. Suggested better antihyperglycemia, antilipidemia, and antihypertensive properties of flavonoid‐rich fractions from Trichilia emetica compared to the extract of Opilia amentacea are demonstrating antidiabetic potential of Trichilia emetica as therapeutic targets for the management of type 2 diabetes.
A Posteriori Error Estimates with Computable Upper Bound for the Nonconforming Rotated Q1 Finite Element Approximation of the Eigenvalue Problems
Authors: Liu Jie , Xia Tian , Jiang Wei
Published: January 2014

This paper
discusses the nonconforming rotated Q1 finite element computable upper bound a posteriori error estimate of the boundary value problem established by M. Ainsworth and obtains efficient computable upper bound a posteriori error indicators for the eigenvalue problem associated with the boundary value problem. We extend the a posteriori error estimate to the Steklov eigenvalue problem and also derive efficient computable upper bound a posteriori error indicators. Finally, through numerical experiments, we verify the validity of the a posteriori error estimate of the boundary value problem; meanwhile, the numerical results show that the a posteriori error indicators of the eigenvalue problem and the Steklov eigenvalue problem are effective.
Cooperative Transmission Mechanisms in Next Generation WiFi: IEEE 802.11ac
Authors: Ji Baofeng , Song Kang , Hu Ying , Chen Hongjun
Published: January 2014

Very high throughput (VHT) WLAN, known as IEEE 802.11ac, can provide compelling performance and has attracted extensive attention for achieving transmission rate over 1 G bps for 5 GHz band owing to involving the MU-MIMO and maximum 160 MHz bandwidth transmission. Despite extensive studies and dramatic performance, the conventional carrier sensing mechanism emerges some drawbacks especially in the overlapping BSS scenario responsible for employment of MU-MIMO and bandwidth expansion. In order to address the issue of conventional carrier sensing mechanism, namely, redundant or useless network allocation vector (NAV) setting, this paper proposes an enhanced NAV transmission mechanism, which not only needs little modifications to current standard draft but also can achieve performance improvement significantly. On this basis, in order to solve the SINR inaccuracy calculated based on null data packet (NDP) in the actual MU-MIMO transmission, the SINR feedback mechanism is proposed and the frame structure modifications are displayed in detail. Furthermore, theoretical analysis is also performed on the proposed mechanism and the formulas of the achieved gains are also derived. Numerical results confirm the validation of our theoretical analysis and further substantiate that the proposed scheme obtains obvious throughput gain over the conventional mechanism.
Constructing Better Classifier Ensemble Based on Weighted Accuracy and Diversity Measure
Authors: Zeng Xiaodong , Wong Derek F. , Chao Lidia S.
Published: January 2014

A weighted accuracy and diversity (WAD) method is presented, a novel measure used to evaluate the quality of the classifier ensemble, assisting in the ensemble selection task. The proposed measure is motivated by a commonly accepted hypothesis; that is, a robust classifier ensemble should not only be accurate but also different from every other member. In fact, accuracy and diversity are mutual restraint factors; that is, an ensemble with high accuracy may have low diversity, and an overly diverse ensemble may negatively affect accuracy. This study proposes a method to find the balance between accuracy and diversity that enhances the predictive ability of an ensemble for unknown data. The quality assessment for an ensemble is performed such that the final score is achieved by computing the harmonic mean of accuracy and diversity, where two weight parameters are used to balance them. The measure is compared to two representative measures, Kappa-Error and GenDiv, and two threshold measures that consider only accuracy or diversity, with two heuristic search algorithms, genetic algorithm, and forward hill-climbing algorithm, in ensemble selection tasks performed on 15 UCI benchmark datasets. The empirical results demonstrate that the WAD measure is superior to others in most cases.
Cloning and Characterization of a Flavonol Synthase Gene fromScutellaria baicalensis
Authors: Kim Yeon Bok , Kim KwangSoo , Kim YeJi , Tuan Pham Anh , Kim Haeng Hoon , Cho Jin Woong , Park Sang Un
Published: January 2014

Flavonols are the most abundant of all the flavonoids and play pivotal roles in a variety of plants. We isolated a cDNA clone encoding flavonol synthase fromScutellaria baicalensis(SbFLS). The SbFLS cDNA is 1011 bp long, encodes 336 amino acid residues, and belongs to a family of 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases. The overall structure ofSbFLSis very similar to that ofArabidopsis thalianaanthocyanidin synthase (AtANS), with aβjelly-roll fold surrounded by tens of short and longα-helices.SbFLSwas constitutively expressed in the roots, stems, leaves, and flowers, with particularly high expression in the roots and flowers. SbFLS transcript levels in the roots were 376-, 70-, and 2.5-fold higher than in the leaves, stems, and flowers. The myricetin content was significantly higher than that of kaempferol and quercetin. Therefore, we suggest that SbFLS mediates flavonol formation in the different organs ofS. baicalensis. Our study may contribute to the knowledge of the role of FLS inS. baicalensis.
Maternal Lipid Change in Relation to Length of Gestation: A Prospective Cohort Study with Preconception Enrollment of Women
Authors: Laughon S. Katherine , McLain Alexander C. , Sundaram Rajeshwari , Catov Janet M. , Buck Louis Germaine M.
Published: January 2014

Background/Aims: We sought to investigate the association between preconception serum lipids and their daily rate of change in relation to length of gestation. Methods: In a cohort of 70 women, 61 (87%) became pregnant, resulting in 48 (69%) live births. Serum lipid measurements (in milligrams per deciliter) included total cholesterol, free cholesterol, triglycerides and phospholipids at preconception, upon human chorionic gonadotropin-confirmed pregnancy and following pregnancy loss (<14 weeks) or post partum. Pregnancy outcome (loss, preterm and term delivery) and gestational length were modeled relative to daily rate of change in lipids using multinomial regression and Cox proportional hazards models, respectively, adjusting for body mass index and smoking. Results: A rate of triglyceride change below the median was associated with an increased risk for pregnancy loss compared with term birth (adjusted odds ratio: 9.02; 95% CI: 1.62-50.30). A rate of triglyceride change of ≤0.01 mg/dl per day versus above the median was associated with a trend for increased risk of pregnancy loss or preterm (<37 weeks) birth (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.77; 95% CI: 0.94-3.33). Conclusion: A low rate of triglyceride change during early pregnancy may be a signal of risk of pregnancy loss or preterm birth. Lipids offer promise for identifying pregnancies at risk for adverse outcomes.
Clinical Signs of Neurofibromatosis Impact on the Outcome of Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors
Authors: Lamm W. , Schur S. , Köstler W.J. , Funovics P. , Windhager R. , Amann G. , Panotopoulos J. , Pokrajac B. , Brodowicz T.
Published: January 2014

Objective: Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) are a rare subtype of sarcoma, with a poor outcome. MPNST are regarded as being sporadic or associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Few comparative overall-survival (OS) data in these 2 subsets of MPNST patients exist. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess OS in sporadic and NF1-associated MPNST patients. Methods: Fourteen consecutive patients with initial localized as well as initial metastatic MPNST were diagnosed and treated in our department. Patients with sporadic MPNST were assigned to group A and those with NF1-associated MPNST to group B. Results: Eight versus 6 patients were allocated to groups A and B. Primary tumors were located on the extremities in all but 1 patient. Two patients in group A and 4 patients in group B experienced a relapse. Four patients died in each of the 2 groups. Median follow-up was 66.2 and 57.2 months in group A and group B, respectively. Median OS in group A was 46.9 months versus 12.7 months in group B. Conclusions: In this small, single-center study, sporadic-MPNST patients had a longer median OS than those with NF1-associated MPNST.