bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hawking-Unruh Hadronization and Strangeness Production in High Energy Collisions
Authors: Castorina Paolo , Satz Helmut
Published: May 2014

The thermal multihadron production observed in different high energy collisions poses many basic problems: why do even elementary,e+e-and hadron-hadron, collisions show thermal behaviour? Why is there in such interactions a suppression of strange particle production? Why does the strangeness suppression almost disappear in relativistic heavy ion collisions? Why in these collisions is the thermalization time less than≃0.5 fm/c? We show that the recently proposed mechanism of thermal hadron production through Hawking-Unruh radiation can naturally answer the previous questions. Indeed, the interpretation of quark (q)-antiquark (q̅) pairs production, by the sequential string breaking, as tunneling through the event horizon of colour confinement leads to thermal behavior with a universal temperature,T≃170 Mev, related to the quark acceleration,a, byT=a/2π. The resulting temperature depends on the quark mass and then on the content of the produced hadrons, causing a deviation from full equilibrium and hence a suppression of strange particle production in elementary collisions. In nucleus-nucleus collisions, where the quark density is much bigger, one has to introduce an average temperature (acceleration) which dilutes the quark mass effect and the strangeness suppression almost disappears.
Fixed Point Results for Variousα-Admissible Contractive Mappings on Metric-Like Spaces
Authors: Al-Mezel Saleh A. , Chen Chi-Ming , Karapınar Erdal , Rakočević Vladimir
Published: May 2014

We establish some fixed point theorems forα-admissible mappings in the context of metric-like space via various auxiliary functions. In particular, we prove the existence of a fixed point of the generalized Meir-Keeler typeα-ϕ-contractive self-mappingfdefined on a metric-like spaceX. The given results generalize, improve, and unify several fixed point theorems for the generalized cyclic contractive mappings that have appeared recently in the literature.
Determinants, Norms, and the Spread of Circulant Matrices with Tribonacci and Generalized Lucas Numbers
Authors: Li Juan , Jiang Zhaolin , Lu Fuliang
Published: May 2014

Circulant matrices play an important role in solving ordinary and partial differential equations. In this paper, by using the inverse factorization of polynomial of degreen, the explicit determinants of circulant and left circulant matrix involving Tribonacci numbers or generalized Lucas numbers are expressed in terms of Tribonacci numbers and generalized Lucas numbers only. Furthermore, four kinds of norms and bounds for the spread of these matrices are given, respectively.
The Effect of Pore Volume of Hard Coals on Their Susceptibility to Spontaneous Combustion
Authors: Dudzińska Agnieszka
Published: May 2014

In this paper the results of the experimental studies on a relationship between pore volume of hard coals and their tendency to spontaneous combustion are presented. Pore volumes were determined by the gas adsorption method and spontaneous combustion tendencies of coals were evaluated by determination of the spontaneous combustion indexesSzaandSza′on the basis of the current Polish standards. An increase in the spontaneous combustion susceptibility of coal occurs in the case of the rise both in micropore volumes and in macropore surfaces. Porosity of coal strongly affects the possibility of oxygen diffusion into the micropores of coal located inside its porous structure. The volume of coal micropores determined on the basis of the carbon dioxide adsorption isotherms can serve as an indicator of a susceptibility of coal to spontaneous combustion.
CCD SDSS gr Photometry of Poorly Studied Star Clusters in the Large Magellanic Cloud
Authors: Piatti Andrés E.
Published: May 2014

We present for the first time CCD SDSS gr photometry, obtained at the Gemini South telescope with the GMOS attached, of stars in the field of the poorly studied star clusters NGC1768, HS 85, SL 676, NGC2107, NGC2190, and SL 866, which are distributed in the main body of the Large Magellanic Cloud. We applied a subtraction procedure to statistically clean the cluster CMDs from field star contamination. In order to disentangle cluster features from those belonging to their surrounding fields, we applied a subtraction procedure which makes use of variable cells to reproduce the field star color-magnitude diagrams (CMDs) as closely as possible. We then traced their stellar density radial profiles from star counts performed over the cleaned field stars dataset and derived their radii. Using the cleaned cluster CMDs, we estimated ages and metallicities from matching theoretical isochrones computed for the SDSS system. The studied star clusters have ages from 0.1 up to 2.0 Gyr and are of slightly metal-poor metal content ([Fe/H]≈−0.4 dex).
Design, Analysis, Prototyping, and Experimental Evaluation of an Efficient Double Coil Magnetorheological Valve
Authors: Hu Guoliang , Long Ming , Huang Ming , Li Weihua
Published: May 2014

A double coil magnetorheological (MR) valve with an outer annular resistance gap was designed and prototyped. The finite element modeling and analysis of double coil MR valve were carried out using ANSYS/Emag software, and the optimal magnetic field distribution and magnetic flux density of the double coil MR valve were achieved. The mechanism of the pressure drop was studied by building a mathematical model of pressure drop in the double coil MR valve. The proposed double coil MR valve was prototyped and its performance was experimentally evaluated. The new MR valve design has improved the efficiency of double coil MR valve significantly.
An Improved Algebraic Method for Transit Signal Priority Scheme and Its Impact on Traffic Emission
Authors: Ji Yanjie , Hu Bo , Han Jing , Tang Dounan
Published: May 2014

Transit signal priority has a positive effect on improving traffic congestion and reducing transit delay and also has an influence on traffic emission. In this paper, an optimal transit signal priority scheme based on an improved algebraic method was developed and its impact on vehicle emission was evaluated as well. The improved algebraic method was proposed on the basis of classical algebraic method and has improvements in three aspects. First, the calculation rules of split loss are more reasonable. Second, the delay caused by transit stations and queued vehicles can be considered. Third, measures for finding optimal ideal intersection interval are improved. By establishing a microscopic traffic emission simulation platform based on microscopic traffic simulation model VISSIM and the comprehensive modal emission model (CMEM), the traffic emissions can be evaluated. Then, an optimal transit signal priority scheme based on the traffic data collected in Changzhou city was developed and its impact on emission was simulated in the VISSIM‐CMEM platform. Comparative analysis results showed that proposed scheme can outperform original scheme in the aspects of reducing emission and passenger delay and an average reduction of 25.0% on transit emission and relative decrease in overall traffic emission can be achieved.
Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm for Continuous Domains Based on Position Distribution Model of Ant Colony Foraging
Authors: Liu Liqiang , Dai Yuntao , Gao Jinyu
Published: May 2014

Ant colony optimization algorithm for continuous domains is a major research direction for ant colony optimization algorithm. In this paper, we propose a distribution model of ant colony foraging, through analysis of the relationship between the position distribution and food source in the process of ant colony foraging. We design a continuous domain optimization algorithm based on the model and give the form of solution for the algorithm, the distribution model of pheromone, the update rules of ant colony position, and the processing method of constraint condition. Algorithm performance against a set of test trials was unconstrained optimization test functions and a set of optimization test functions, and test results of other algorithms are compared and analyzed to verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Primary Stability of Self-Drilling and Self-Tapping Mini-Implant in Tibia of Diabetes-Induced Rabbits
Authors: Park Jea-Beom , Kim Eun-Young , Paek Janghyun , Kook Yoon-Ah , Jeong Do-Min , Cho Il-Sik , Nelson Gerald
Published: May 2014

Objective. This study aimed to evaluate effects of type 1 diabetes mellitus and mini-implant placement method on the primary stability of mini-implants by comparing mechanical stability and microstructural/histological differences.Methods. After 4 weeks of diabetic induction, 48 mini-implants (24 self-tapping and 24 self-drilling implants) were placed on the tibia of 6 diabetic and 6 normal rabbits. After 4 weeks, the rabbits were sacrificed. Insertion torque, removal torque, insertion energy, and removal energy were measured with a surgical engine on 8 rabbits. Remaining 4 rabbits were analyzed by microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) and bone histomorphometry.Results. Total insertion energy was higher in self-drilling groups than self-tapping groups in both control and diabetic groups. Diabetic groups had more trabecular separation in bone marrow than the control groups in both SD and ST groups. Micro-CT analysis showed deterioration of bone quality in tibia especially in bone marrow of diabetic rabbits. However, there was no statistically significant correlation between self-drilling and self-tapping group for the remaining measurements in both control and diabetic groups.Conclusions. Type 1 diabetes mellitus and placement method of mini-implant did not affect primary stability of mini-implants.
Response to Rotenone Is Glucose-Sensitive in a Model of Human Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Involvement of Oxidative Stress Mechanism, DJ-1, Parkin, and PINK-1 Proteins
Authors: Mendivil-Perez Miguel , Jimenez-Del-Rio Marlene , Velez-Pardo Carlos
Published: May 2014

To establish the effect of low (11 mM) and high (55 mM) glucose concentrations (G11, G55) on Jurkat cells exposed to rotenone (ROT, a class 5 mitocan). We demonstrated that ROT induces apoptosis in Jurkat cells cultured in G11 by oxidative stress (OS) mechanism involving the generation of anion superoxide radical (O2∙-, 68%)/hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, 54%), activation of NF-κB (32%), p53 (25%), c-Jun (17%) transcription factors, and caspase-3 (28%), apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF, 36%) nuclei translocation, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation, and loss of mitochondria transmembrane potential (ΔΨm, 62%) leading to nuclei fragmentation (~10% and ~40% stage I-II fragmented nuclei, resp.). ROT induces massive cytoplasmic aggregates of DJ-1 (93%), and upregulation of Parkin compared to untreated cells, but no effect on PINK-1 protein was observed. Cell death marker detection and DJ-1 and Parkin expression were significantly reduced when cells were cultured in G55 plus ROT. Remarkably, metformin sensitized Jurkat cells against ROT in G55. Our results indicate that a high-glucose milieu promotes resistance against ROT/H2O2-induced apoptosis in Jurkat cells. Our data suggest that combined therapy by using mitochondria-targeted damaging compounds and regulation of glucose (e.g., metformin) can efficiently terminate leukemia cells via apoptosis in hyperglycemic conditions.
Overexpression of Interleukin-23 and Interleukin-17 in the Lesion of Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Xue Jixin , Su Wenting , Chen Zhiwei , Ke Youhui , Du Xiaojing , Zhou Qiaochu
Published: May 2014

IL-23/IL-17 axis has been identified as major factor involved in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases; yet its pathogenetic role in pemphigus vulgaris (PV) remains controversial. The aim of this research was to investigate the potential role of IL-23/IL-17 axis in the immunopathogenesis of PV, and correlation between IL-23+ cells and IL-17+ cells was also evaluated. For this purpose, ten patients with PV, three patients with pemphigus foliaceus (PF), and six healthy individuals were allocated to this research. The lesional skin biopsy specimens were obtained before treatment. Then immunofluorescence staining was performed to analyze the expression of IL-23 and IL-17 in the PV/PF patients and the healthy individuals. The results showed that the numbers of IL-23+ and IL-17+ cells were significantly higher in PV lesions, compared to PF lesions and normal control skins, respectively (allP<0.05). Moreover, the correlation between IL-23+ cells and IL-17+ cells was significant (r=0.7546;P<0.05). Taken together, our results provided evidence that the IL-23/IL-17 axis may play a crucial role in the immunopathogenesis of PV and may serve as novel therapeutic target for PV.
Computational Study to Determine When to Initiate and Alternate Therapy in HIV Infection
Authors: Haering Matthias , Hördt Andreas , Meyer-Hermann Michael , Hernandez-Vargas Esteban A.
Published: May 2014

HIV is a widespread viral infection without cure. Drug treatment has transformed HIV disease into a treatable long-term infection. However, the appearance of mutations within the viral genome reduces the susceptibility of HIV to drugs. Therefore, a key goal is to extend the time until patients exhibit resistance to all existing drugs. Current HIV treatment guidelines seem poorly supported as practitioners have not achieved a consensus on the optimal time to initiate and to switch antiretroviral treatments. We contribute to this discussion with predictions derived from a mathematical model of HIV dynamics. Our results indicate that early therapy initiation (within 2 years postinfection) is critical to delay AIDS progression. For patients who have not received any therapy during the first 3 years postinfection, switch in response to virological failure may outperform proactive switching strategies. In case that proactive switching is opted, the switching time between therapies should not be larger than 100 days. Further clinical trials are needed to either confirm or falsify these predictions.
Crystallites of α‐Sexithiophene in Bilayer Small Molecule Organic Solar Cells Double Efficiency
Authors: Radziwon Michal , Fernandes Cauduro André Luis , Madsen Morten , Rubahn Horst-Günter
Published: May 2014

Recent efforts in research and development of small molecule based organic solar cells have led to power conversion efficiencies exceeding 10%. Understanding the incorporated interfaces in these devices is an utterly important parameter for their improvement. Here we investigate the influence of α‐sexithiophene (α‐6T) nanostructures on the performance parameters of α‐6T/C60 inverted bilayer solar cells. By in situ controlled growth, crystalline α‐6T nanostructures are formed in the devices and a correlation between the morphology of the structures and the device performance is presented. Under certain, well‐defined circumstances, we observe an efficiency increase of around 100% when implementing crystalline nanostructures.
Mutation Analysis of JAK2V617F, FLT3-ITD, NPM1, and DNMT3A in Chinese Patients with Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Wang Min , He Na , Tian Tian , Liu Lu , Yu Shuang , Ma Daoxin
Published: May 2014

Since the discovery of JAK2V617F tyrosine kinase-activating mutation, several genes have been found mutated in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). FLT3-ITD, NPM1, and DNMT3A mutations frequently occurred in AML patients and have been found conferred with myeloproliferative neoplasms in mouse model. Therefore, we sought to search for mutations in JAK2V617F, FLT3-ITD, NPM1, and DNMT3A in 129 cases including 120 classic MPN cases and 9 MDS/MPN cases. JAK2V617F mutation was found in 60% of the 120 classic MPNs. However, none of the patients displayed FLT3-ITD and NPM1 mutations; only 2 patients harbored DNMT3A R882 mutation. Further studies including whole-genome sequence will be conducted to investigate the possible involvement of these genes in MPN.
Induction Chemotherapy in Technically Unresectable Locally Advanced Carcinoma of Maxillary Sinus
Authors: Noronha Vanita , Patil Vijay Maruti , Joshi Amit , Krishna Muddu Vamshi , Dhumal Sachin , Juvekar Shashikant , Pai P. , Chatturvedi Pankaj , Chaukar Devendra Arvind , Agarwal Jai Prakash , Ghosh Sarbani , Murthy Vedang , D’cruz Anil , Prabhash Kumar
Published: May 2014

Background. Locally advanced carcinoma of maxillary sinus has been historically reported to have poor prognosis. We evaluated the role of NACT in improving the outcome in these patients. Methods. 41 patients with locally advanced technically unresectable (stage IVa) or unresectable maxillary carcinoma (stage IVb) were treated with induction chemotherapy between 2008 and 2011. The demographic profile, response and toxicity of chemotherapy, definitive treatment received, progression free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to determine factors associated with PFS and OS. Results. The chemotherapy included two drugs (platinum and taxane) in 34 patients (82.9%) and three drugs (platinum, taxane, and 5 FU) in 7 (17.1%). There was no complete response seen in any of the patients, stable disease in 18 (43.9%), partial response in 16 (39%), and progression in 7 (17.1%) patients. After induction, the treatment planned included surgery in 12 (29.3%), CT-RT in 24 (58.5%), radical RT in 1 (2.4%), palliative RT in 1 (2.4%), and palliative chemotherapy in 3 (7.3%) patients. Overall, the median PFS was 10.0 months. The OS at 24 months and 36 months was 41% and 35%, respectively. Conclusion. In unresectable maxillary carcinoma, induction chemotherapy has clinically significant benefit with acceptable toxicity.
Modeling and Simulation of Fish-Like Swimming in a Straight-Line Swimming State Using Immersed Boundary Method
Authors: Wang Wenquan , Yin Rui , Hao Dongwei , Yan Yan
Published: May 2014

A self-propelled swimming fish model is established, which can reflect the interaction between fish movement, internal force generated by muscle contraction, and the external force provided by fluid. Using finite element immersed boundary method combined with traditional feedback force method, the self-propelled swimming fish is numerically simulated. Firstly, a self-induced vibration of a cantilever beam immersed in a fluid is one of the benchmarks of fluid-structure interaction, which is used to verify the validity of the numerical method. Secondly, start and cruise process of a single swimming fish in a straight-line swimming state is simulated and analysis of the flow characteristics and fish body movement features is done. The results reveal that the fish gain energy from flow field by the conversion of “C” type and “S” type of fish body.
Human Schwann Cells Seeded on a Novel Collagen-Based Microstructured Nerve Guide Survive, Proliferate, and Modify Neurite Outgrowth
Authors: van Neerven Sabien G. A. , Krings Laura , Haastert-Talini Kirsten , Vogt Michael , Tolba René H. , Brook Gary , Pallua Norbert , Bozkurt Ahmet
Published: May 2014

A variety of new bioartificial nerve guides have been tested preclinically for their safety and nerve regeneration supporting properties. So far, only a limited number of biomaterials have been tested in humans since the step from preclinical work to a clinical application is challenging. We here present anin vitromodel with human Schwann cells (hSCs) as an intermediate step towards clinical application of the nerve guide Perimaix, a collagen-based microstructured 3D scaffold containing numerous longitudinal guidance channels for directed axonal growth. hSCs were seeded onto different prototypes of Perimaix and cultivated for 14 days. hSC adhered to the scaffold, proliferated, and demonstrated healthy Schwann cell morphology (spindle shaped cell bodies, bipolar oriented processes) not only at the surface of the material, but also in the deeper layers of the scaffold. The general well-being of the cells was quantitatively confirmed by low levels of lactate dehydrogenase release into the culture medium. Moreover, conditioned medium of hSCs that were cultivated on Perimaix was able to modify neurite outgrowth from sensory dorsal root ganglion neurons. Overall these data indicate that Perimaix is able to provide a matrix that can promote the attachment and supports process extension, migration, and proliferation of hSC.
Endophytic Fungal Diversity in Medicinal Plants of Western Ghats, India
Authors: Nalini Monnanda Somaiah , Sunayana Ningaraju , Prakash Harischandra Sripathy
Published: May 2014

Endophytes constitute an important component of microbial diversity, and in the present investigation, seven plant species with rich ethnobotanical uses representing six families were analyzed for the presence of endophytic fungi from their natural habitats during monsoon (May/June) and winter (November/December) seasons of 2007. Fungal endophytes were isolated from healthy plant parts such as stem, root, rhizome, and inflorescence employing standard isolation methods. One thousand five hundred and twenty-nine fungal isolates were obtained from 5200 fragments. Stem fragments harbored more endophytes (80.37%) than roots (19.22%). 31 fungal taxa comprised of coelomycetes (65%), hyphomycetes (32%), and ascomycetes (3%). Fusarium, Acremonium, Colletotrichum, Chaetomium, Myrothecium, Phomopsis, and Pestalotiopsis spp. were commonly isolated. Diversity indices differed significantly between the seasons (P<0.001). Species richness was greater for monsoon isolations than winter. Host specificity was observed for few fungal endophytes. UPGMA cluster analysis grouped the endophytes into distinct clusters on the basis of genetic distance. This study is the first report on the diversity and host-specificity of endophytic fungal taxa were from the semi evergreen forest type in Talacauvery subcluster of Western Ghats.
Phytochemical Evaluation, Antimicrobial Activity, and Determination of Bioactive Components from Leaves ofAegle marmelos
Authors: Mujeeb Farina , Bajpai Preeti , Pathak Neelam
Published: May 2014

The therapeutic value ofAegle marmelosCorrea (Rutaceae), commonly known as ‘‘Bael,’’ has been recognized as a component of traditional medication for the treatment of various human ailments. The plant, though, being highly explored, still lacks sufficient evidences for the best variety possessing the highest degree of medicinal values. The present study is focused on phytochemical screening of aqueous and methanolic leaf extracts of 18 varieties/accessions ofA. marmelos. The crude extracts ofA. marmelosrevealed the presence of several biologically active phytochemicals with the highest quantity of alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenols in Pant Aparna variety. The antibacterial efficacy was investigated against pathogenic bacterial strains and the highest inhibitory activity of aqueous extract was obtained againstS. epidermidis, whereas methanolic extract was found to be most potent againstS. aureusat 40 mg/mL concentration. However, in aqueous : ethanol, the best results were observed againstE. aerogenesfollowed byK. pneumoniaandS. epidermidis. The MIC of aqueous and methanol extract ofAegle marmelosranged from 10 mg/mL to 40 mg/mL whereas in aqueous : ethanol it ranged between 40 mg/mL and 160 mg/mL. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of many bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alcohols, aldehydes, aromatic compounds, fatty acid methyl esters, terpenoids, phenolics, and steroids that can be postulated for antibacterial activity.
Parallel Simulation of HGMS of Weakly Magnetic Nanoparticles in Irrotational Flow of Inviscid Fluid
Authors: Hournkumnuard Kanok , Dolwithayakul Banpot , Chantrapornchai Chantana
Published: May 2014

The process of high gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) using a microferromagnetic wire for capturing weakly magnetic nanoparticles in the irrotational flow of inviscid fluid is simulated by using parallel algorithm developed based on openMP. The two-dimensional problem of particle transport under the influences of magnetic force and fluid flow is considered in an annular domain surrounding the wire with inner radius equal to that of the wire and outer radius equal to various multiples of wire radius. The differential equations governing particle transport are solved numerically as an initial and boundary values problem by using the finite-difference method. Concentration distribution of the particles around the wire is investigated and compared with some previously reported results and shows the good agreement between them. The results show the feasibility of accumulating weakly magnetic nanoparticles in specific regions on the wire surface which is useful for applications in biomedical and environmental works. The speedup of parallel simulation ranges from 1.8 to 21 depending on the number of threads and the domain problem size as well as the number of iterations. With the nature of computing in the application and current multicore technology, it is observed that 4–8 threads are sufficient to obtain the optimized speedup.
Multiple Periodic Solutions of an Impulsive Population System with Delays
Authors: Zhao Wenbo , Ma Caochuan , Chen Lijun
Published: May 2014

A nonautonomous plant-hare model with impulse is considered. By using the continuation theorem of coincidence degree theory, we present an easily verifiable sufficient condition on the existence of multiple periodic solutions. Though Gao et al. (2014) considered the periodic solutions of plant-hare model, such model with impulses and delay has not been studied in previous paper.
Synthesis, XRD, TEM, EPR, and Optical Absorption Spectral Studies of CuZnO2Nanocompound
Authors: Reddy T. Ravindra , Thyagarajan K. , Reddy S. Lakshmi , Endo Tamio
Published: May 2014

Synthesis of nano CuZnO2compound is carried out by thermal decomposition method. The crystalline phase of the material is characterized by XRD. The calculated unit cell constants area=3.1 Åandc=3.4786 Åand are of tetragonal structure. The unit cell constants are different from wurtzite (hexagonal) which indicate that a nanocompound is formed. Further TEM images reveal that the metal ion is in tetragonal structure with oxygen ligands. The prepared CuZnO2is then characterized for crystallite size analysis by employing transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The size is found to be 100 nm. Uniform bright rings are noticed in the TEM picture suggesting that the nanocrystals have preferential instead of random orientations. The selected-area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern clearly indicates the formation of CuO-ZnO nanocompound. The nature of bonding is studied by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). The covalency character is about 0.74 and thus the compound is electrically less conductive. Optical absorption spectral studies suggest that Cu(II) is placed in tetragonal elongation crystal field. The spin-orbit coupling constant,λ, is calculated using the EPR and optical absorption spectral results suggest some covalent bond between metal and ligand. Near infrared (NIR) spectra are due to hydroxyl and water fundamentals.
Investigation of the Potential for Evaluation of Concrete Flaws Using Nondestructive Testing Methods
Authors: Lorenzi Alexandre , Caetano Luciane Fonseca , Chies Josue Argenta , Silva Filho Luiz Carlos Pinto da
Published: May 2014

Adoption of periodic or continuous monitoring strategies to assess condition state of infrastructure elements is a vital part of service life management (SLM). NDT methods are increasingly seen as an attractive and viable strategy to support condition monitoring. Over the last 15 years, the LEME research group at UFRGS has investigated several aspects related to the use of the ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) method and its potential for real field applications. One of the main advances involved the development of artificial neural network (ANN) models for correlating compressive strength and UPV measurements. Another examined problem was how to deal with the large amount of raw data derived from inspection of large structures. Several studies were carried out to check different mapping techniques, as reported by Lorenzi et al. 2011. This paper relates one investigation where UPV and rebound hammer (RH) measurements were collected from a beam containing several induced defects, simulated using different materials. The results were processed using a mapping strategy, which indicated suspicious points where core extraction was undertaken. All cores taken from points derived from UPV results were found to have flaws providing evidence that this may be a suitable tool to assess concrete structures, when data is properly interpreted.
Constricted Canals: A New Strategy to Overcome This Challenge
Authors: Machado Ricardo , Silva Emmanuel João Nogueira Leal , Vansan Luiz Pascoal
Published: May 2014

Negotiation of constricted canals can be a challenge during endodontic treatment. Over the years, several strategies have been presented in order to overcome the difficulties imposed by this anatomical feature. This paper presents three cases using a different protocol from that recommended by the manufacturer of the Protaper System in order to facilitate the negotiation of constricted canals. These cases suggest that the modified protocol shown is able to perform the shaping process with less resistance, reducing the risk of instrument separation and performing an effective process to reach the apical thirds in constricted canals.
Can Melatonin Help Us in Radiation Oncology Treatments?
Authors: Mihandoost Ehsan , Shirazi Alireza , Mahdavi Seied Rabie , Aliasgharzadeh Akbar
Published: May 2014

Nowadays, radiotherapy has become an integral part of the treatment regimen in various malignancies for curative or palliative purposes. Ionizing radiation interacts with biological systems to produce free radicals, which attack various cellular components. Radioprotectors act as prophylactic agents that are administered to shield normal cells and tissues from the harmful effects of radiation. Melatonin has been shown to be both a direct free radical scavenger and an indirect antioxidant by stimulating antioxidant enzymes and suppressing prooxidative enzymes activity. In addition to its antioxidant property, there have also been reports implicating antiapoptotic function for melatonin in normal cells. Furthermore, through its antitumor and radiosensitizing properties, treatment with melatonin may prevent tumor progression. Therefore, addition of melatonin to radiation therapy could lower the damage inflicted to the normal tissue, leading to a more efficient tumor control by use of higher doses of irradiation during radiotherapy. Thus, it seems that, in the future, melatonin may improve the therapeutic gain in radiation oncology treatments.
Some Further Results on Oscillations for Neutral Delay Differential Equations with Variable Coefficients
Authors: Ahmed Fatima N. , Ahmad Rokiah Rozita , Din Ummul Khair Salma , Noorani Mohd Salmi Md
Published: May 2014

We study the oscillatory behaviour of all solutions of first-order neutral equations with variable coefficients. The obtained results extend and improve some of the well-known results in the literature. Some examples are given to show the evidence of our new results.
3D Imaging Algorithm for Down-Looking MIMO Array SAR Based on Bayesian Compressive Sensing
Authors: Ren Xiaozhen , Chen Lina , Yang Jing
Published: May 2014

Down-looking MIMO array SAR can reconstruct 3D images of the observed area in the inferior of the platform of the SAR and has wide application prospects. In this paper, a new strategy based on Bayesian compressive sensing theory is proposed for down-looking MIMO array SAR imaging, which transforms the cross-track imaging process of down-looking MIMO array SAR into the problem of sparse signal reconstruction from noisy measurements. Due to account for additive noise encountered in the measurement process, high quality image can be achieved. Simulation results indicate that the proposed method can provide better resolution and lower sidelobes compared to the conventional method.
The Strategic Measures for the Industrial Security of Small and Medium Business
Authors: Lee Chang-Moo
Published: May 2014

The competitiveness of companies increasingly depends upon whether they possess the cutting-edge or core technology. The technology should be protected from industrial espionage or leakage. A special attention needs to be given to SMB (small and medium business), furthermore, because SMB occupies most of the companies but has serious problems in terms of industrial security. The technology leakages of SMB would account for more than 2/3 of total leakages during last five years. The purpose of this study is, therefore, to analyze the problems of SMB in terms of industrial security and suggest the strategic solutions for SMB in South Korea. The low security awareness and financial difficulties, however, make it difficult for SMB to build the effective security management system which would protect the company from industrial espionage and leakage of its technology. The growing dependence of SMB on network such as internet, in addition, puts the SMB at risk of leaking its technology through hacking or similar ways. It requires new measures to confront and control such a risk. Online security control services and technology deposit system are suggested for such measures.
An Environmental-Economic Dispatch Method for Smart Microgrids Using VSS_QGA
Authors: Liu Wenxia , Zhang Yuying , Zeng Bo , Niu Shuya , Zhang Jianhua , Xiao Yong
Published: May 2014

The increasing penetration of distributed generation resources demands better economic performance of microgrids under the smart-grid era. In this paper, a comprehensive environmental-economic dispatch method for smart microgrids is proposed, with the objective for minimizing the summation of generation and emission costs in the system. As the proposed model belongs to a large-scale nonlinear and nonconvex programming problem, a hybrid heuristic algorithm, named variable step-size chaotic fuzzy quantum genetic algorithm (VSS_QGA), is developed. The algorithm utilizes complementarity among multiple techniques including the variable step size optimization, the rotation mutational angle fuzzy control, and the quantum genetic algorithm and combines them so as to solve problems with superior accuracy and efficiency. The effectiveness of the proposed model is demonstrated through a case study on an actual microgrid system and the advantages in the performance of VSS_QGA is also verified through the comparison with genetic algorithm (GA), the evolutionary programming approach (EP), the quantum genetic algorithm (QGA), and the chaotic quantum genetic algorithm (CQGA).
Eruption of Odontomas into the Oral Cavity: A Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Bhargavan Sarojini Sreenivasan , Khosla Ektah , Varghese Thomas , Johnson Arakkal Leena
Published: May 2014

Odontomas are the commonest odontogenic tumors of the oral cavity and are by nature asymptomatic. They consist mainly of dental tissue that may or may not be arranged in an orderly fashion. Their presence is often detected accidentally or due to the presence of a dental disturbance such as an unerupted tooth. The very rarity of odontomas erupting into the oral cavity validates the need for more current literature on the phenomenon. Our report of two cases aims to present and discuss the rare event of an erupting odontoma with the dental community.
Experimental Finite Element Approach for Stress Analysis
Authors: Erklig Ahmet , Kütük M. Akif
Published: May 2014

This study aims to determining the strain gauge location points in the problems of stress concentration, and it includes both experimental and numerical results. Strain gauges were proposed to be positioned to corresponding locations on beam and blocks to related node of elements of finite element models. Linear and nonlinear cases were studied. Cantilever beam problem was selected as the linear case to approve the approach and conforming contact problem was selected as the nonlinear case. An identical mesh structure was prepared for the finite element and the experimental models. The finite element analysis was carried out with ANSYS. It was shown that the results of the experimental and the numerical studies were in good agreement.
Efficient Hardware Trojan Detection with Differential Cascade Voltage Switch Logic
Authors: Danesh Wafi , Dofe Jaya , Yu Qiaoyan
Published: May 2014

Offshore fabrication, assembling and packaging challenge chip security, as original chip designs may be tampered by malicious insertions, known as hardware Trojans (HTs). HT detection is imperative to guarantee the chip performance and safety. Existing HT detection methods have limited capability to detect small-scale HTs and are further challenged by the increased process variation. To increase HT detection sensitivity and reduce chip authorization time, we propose to exploit the inherent feature of differential cascade voltage switch logic (DCVSL) to detect HTs at runtime. In normal operation, a system implemented with DCVSL always produces complementary logic values in internal nets and final outputs. Noncomplementary values on inputs and internal nets in DCVSL systems potentially result in abnormal power behavior and even system failures. By examining special power characteristics of DCVSL systems upon HT insertion, we can detect HTs, even if the HT size is small. Simulation results show that the proposed method achieves up to 100% HT detection rate. The evaluation on ISCAS benchmark circuits shows that the proposed method obtains a HT detection rate in the range of 66% to 98%.
Esophageal Rupture as a Primary Manifestation in Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Authors: Vernon Natalia , Mohananey Divyanshu , Ghetmiri Ehsan , Ghaffari Gisoo
Published: May 2014

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory process characterized by symptoms of esophageal dysfunction and, histologically, by eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus. In adults, it commonly presents with dysphagia, food impaction, and chest or abdominal pain. Chronic inflammation can lead to diffuse narrowing of the esophageal lumen which may cause food impaction. Endoscopic procedures to relieve food impaction may lead to complications such as esophageal perforation due to the friability of the esophageal mucosa. Spontaneous transmural esophageal rupture, also known as Boerhaave’s syndrome, as a primary manifestation of EoE is rare. In this paper, we present two adult patients who presented with esophageal perforation as the initial manifestation of EoE. This rare complication of EoE has been documented in 13 other reports (11 adults, 2 children) and only 1 of the patients had been previously diagnosed with EoE. A history of dysphagia was present in 1 of our patients and in the majority of previously documented patients. Esophageal perforation is a potentially severe complication of EoE. Patients with a history of dysphagia and patients with spontaneous esophageal perforation should warrant an evaluation for EoE.
Analytical Method of Modelling the Geometric System of Communication Route
Authors: Koc Wladyslaw
Published: May 2014

The paper presents a new analytical approach to modelling the curvature of a communication route by making use of differential equations. The method makes it possible to identify both linear and nonlinear curvature. It enables us to join curves of the same or opposite signs of curvature. Solutions of problems for linear change of curvature and selected variants of nonlinear curvature in polynomial and trigonometric form were analyzed. A comparison of determined horizontal transition curves was made and examples of negotiating these curves into a geometric system were given.
A Novel Iris Segmentation Scheme
Authors: Liu Chen-Chung , Chung Pei-Chung , Lyu Chia-Ming , Liu Jui , Yu Shyr-Shen
Published: May 2014

One of the key steps in the iris recognition system is the accurate iris segmentation from its surrounding noises including pupil, sclera, eyelashes, and eyebrows of a captured eye‐image. This paper presents a novel iris segmentation scheme which utilizes the orientation matching transform to outline the outer and inner iris boundaries initially. It then employs Delogne‐Kåsa circle fitting (instead of the traditional Hough transform) to further eliminate the outlier points to extract a more precise iris area from an eye‐image. In the extracted iris region, the proposed scheme further utilizes the differences in the intensity and positional characteristics of the iris, eyelid, and eyelashes to detect and delete these noises. The scheme is then applied on iris image database, UBIRIS.v1. The experimental results show that the presented scheme provides a more effective and efficient iris segmentation than other conventional methods.
Similarity Solutions for Flow and Heat Transfer of Non-Newtonian Fluid over a Stretching Surface
Authors: Sojoudi Atta , Mazloomi Ali , Saha Suvash C. , Gu Y. T.
Published: May 2014

Similarity solutions are carried out for flow of power law non-Newtonian fluid film on unsteady stretching surface subjected to constant heat flux. Free convection heat transfer induces thermal boundary layer within a semi-infinite layer of Boussinesq fluid. The nonlinear coupled partial differential equations (PDE) governing the flow and the boundary conditions are converted to a system of ordinary differential equations (ODE) using two-parameter groups. This technique reduces the number of independent variables by two, and finally the obtained ordinary differential equations are solved numerically for the temperature and velocity using the shooting method. The thermal and velocity boundary layers are studied by the means of Prandtl number and non-Newtonian power index plotted in curves.
A New Approach for the Stability Analysis of Wave Networks
Authors: Zhang Ya Xuan , Xu Gen Qi
Published: May 2014

We introduce a new approach to investigate the stability of controlled tree-shaped wave networks and subtrees of complex wave networks. It is motivated by regarding the network as branching out from a single edge. We present the recursive relations of the Laplacian transforms of adjacent edges of the system in its branching order, which form the characteristic equation. In the stability analysis, we estimate the infimums of the recursive expressions in the inverse order based on the spectral analysis. It is a feasible way to check whether the system is exponentially stable under any control strategy or parameter choice. As an application we design the control law and study the stability of a 12-edge tree-shaped wave network.
Antiplasmodial Effect ofAnthocleista vogeliion Albino Mice Experimentally Infected withPlasmodium berghei berghei(NK 65)
Authors: Gboeloh Lebari Barine , Okon Okpok Eta , Udoh Samuel Effiong
Published: May 2014

The objective of the present study was to investigate the antiplasmodial effect of the ethanolic stem bark extract ofAnthocleista vogeliiat different doses in albino mice infected withPlasmodium berghei berghei(NK 65). Thirty-six mice were divided into six groups of six mice each. Five groups (B1–B3, D, and G) were infected withPlasmodium berghei bergheiparasitized red blood cells. Groups D, H, and G served as the controls. Six days after infection, mice in groups B1, B2, and B3were treated orally with 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight ofAnthocleista vogelii,respectively, for six executive days. Group D was treated with 5 mg/kg body weight of chloroquine while Group G was given distilled water. Group H was not infected and was not treated. It served as the normal control. The extracts exhibited significant(P<0.05)dose-dependent chemosuppression ofP. berghei. The extract exhibited average chemosuppressive effects of 48.5%, 78.5%, and 86.6% at dose levels of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Phytochemical screening of the plant extract revealed the presence of saponins, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, terpenes, alkaloids, and steroid. The acute toxicity (LD50) of the plant was estimated to be 3162 mg/kg body weight. It showed that the stem bark ofA. vogeliipossesses antiplasmodial property.
Simplified Reliability Estimation for Optimum Strengthening Ratio of 30‐Year‐Old Double T‐Beam Railway Bridge by NSM Techniques
Authors: Ju Minkwan , Oh Hongseob , Sun Jong-Wan
Published: May 2014

This study is to develop simplified reliability estimation for optimum strengthening ratio of T‐beam railway bridge strengthened by CFRP strip. Until now, strengthening design has been usually proceeded to satisfy the target load‐carrying capacity by using the deterministic parameter of nominal property for concrete or FRP. For the optimum strengthening design, however, it is required that reliability‐based strengthening design should be applied to effectively determine the amount of strengthening material and make sure of the safety of the structure. As applying the reliability‐based strengthening ratio, more reliable strengthening design using CFRP strip is possible as well as having a structural redundancy. The reliability‐based strengthening design methodology suggested in this study is able to contribute the optimum strengthening design for a concrete structure strengthened by CFRP strip.
Frequency Synchronization Algorithms for MIMO-OFDM Systems with Periodic Preambles
Authors: Sun Jian , Li Fudong , Wang Cheng-Xiang , Hong Xuemin , Yuan Dongfeng
Published: May 2014

This paper addresses the problem of frequency synchronization in multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) systems with periodic preambles. Two Maximum Likelihood Estimators (MLEs) and four low complexity Best Linear Unbiased Estimators (BLUEs) are proposed. When cyclic shift delay is applied to periodic preambles, MLEs can adopt a unique structure which employs diversity and correlation calculation in the estimator. We first propose a multiple-antenna estimator named as MLE-MA, which has an estimation range of the entire signal bandwidth. MLE-MAS is a simplified version of MLE-MA, which reduces the computational load at the cost of a narrower estimation range. Moreover, phases or differential phases obtained from the autocorrelation of periodic sequences with different delays can be used to estimate carrier frequency offset (CFO). The weighting coefficients of all BLUEs are derived in closed form and shown to be independent from the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). BLUEs have asymptotically consistent variances. Theoretical and simulation results demonstrate that all estimators can asymptotically approach the theoretical Cramer Rao Lower bound (CRLB) at different SNRs.
Side Effects of Radiographic Contrast Media: Pathogenesis, Risk Factors, and Prevention
Authors: Andreucci Michele , Solomon Richard , Tasanarong Adis
Published: May 2014

Radiocontrast media (RCM) are medical drugs used to improve the visibility of internal organs and structures in X-ray based imaging techniques. They may have side effects ranging from itching to a life-threatening emergency, known as contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). We define CIN as acute renal failure occurring within 24–72 hrs of exposure to RCM that cannot be attributed to other causes. It usually occurs in patients with preexisting renal impairment and diabetes. The mechanisms underlying CIN include reduction in medullary blood flow leading to hypoxia and direct tubule cell damage and the formation of reactive oxygen species. Identification of patients at high risk for CIN is important. We have reviewed the risk factors and procedures for prevention, providing a long list of references enabling readers a deep evaluation of them both. The first rule to follow in patients at risk of CIN undergoing radiographic procedure is monitoring renal function by measuring serum creatinine and calculating the eGFR before and once daily for 5 days after the procedure. It is advised to discontinue potentially nephrotoxic medications, to choose radiocontrast media at lowest dosage, and to encourage oral or intravenous hydration. In high-risk patients N-acetylcysteine may also be given.