bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Exponential Trends on Correlations of Stock Markets
Authors: Lin Ai-Jing , Shang Peng-Jian , Zhou Hua-Chun
Published: April 2014

Detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) is a scaling analysis method used to estimate long‐range power‐law correlation exponents in time series. In this paper, DFA is employed to discuss the long‐range correlations of stock market. The effects of exponential trends on correlations of Hang Seng Index (HSI) are investigated with emphasis. We find that the long‐range correlations and the positions of the crossovers of lower order DFA appear to have no immunity to the additive exponential trends. Further, our analysis suggests that an increase in the DFA order increases the efficiency of eliminating on exponential trends. In addition, the empirical study shows that the correlations and crossovers are associated with DFA order and magnitude of exponential trends.
Streptomyces flavogriseusHS1: Isolation and Characterization of Extracellular Proteases and Their Compatibility with Laundry Detergents
Authors: Ghorbel Sofiane , Kammoun Maher , Soltana Hala , Nasri Moncef , Hmidet Noomen
Published: April 2014

The present study describes the isolation of a new protease producingStreptomycesstrain HS1 and the biochemical characterization of the secreted proteases. By sequencing of its noted 16S rDNA, HS1 strain was found to have a 100% identity withStreptomyces flavogriseus. The highest protease production was found using FermII media. In these conditions maximum protease production (99 U/mL) was obtained after 96 h incubation at 30°C and 150 rpm. HS1 strain produced at least five proteases as revealed by zymogram technique. The enzyme preparation exhibited activity over a broad range of pH (5–11) and temperature (25–70°C). Optimum activity was observed at a pH of 7.0 and a temperature of 50°C. Proteolytic activity was significantly unaffected by Ca2+and Mg2+. EDTA and PMSF highly decreased the original activity. The crude extracellular proteases showed high stability when used as a detergent additive. These properties offer an interesting potential for enzymatic hydrolysis at the industrial level.
Development of Moving Particle Simulation Method for Multiliquid‐Layer Sloshing
Authors: Kim Kyung Sung , Kim Moo Hyun , Park Jong-Chun
Published: April 2014

The mixed oil and gas including water and sand are extracted from well to offshore structure. This mixed fluid must be separated for subsequent processes by using wash tanks or separators. To design such a system, a proper numerical‐prediction tool for multiphase fluids is required. In this regard, a new moving particle simulation (MPS) method is developed to simulate multiliquid‐layer sloshing problems. The new MPS method for multifluid system includes extra search methods for interface particles, boundary conditions for interfaces, buoyancy‐correction model, and surface‐tension model for interface particles. The new particle interaction models are verified through comparisons with published numerical and experimental data. In particular, the multiliquid MPS method is verified against Molin et al’s (2012) experiment with three liquid layers. In case of excitation frequency close to one of the internal‐layer resonances, the internal interface motions can be much greater than top free‐surface motions. The verified multiliquid MPS program is subsequently used for more nonlinear cases including multichromatic multimodal motions with larger amplitudes, from which various nonlinear features, such as internal breaking and more particle detachment, can be observed. For the nonlinear case, the differences between with and without buoyancy‐correction and surface‐tension models are also demonstrated.
A New Method of Image Denoising for Underground Coal Mine Based on the Visual Characteristics
Authors: Hua Gang , Jiang Daihong
Published: April 2014

Affected by special underground circumstances of coal mine, the image clarity of most images captured in the mine is not very high, and a large amount of image noise is mingled with the images, which brings further downhole images processing many difficulties. Traditional image denoising method easily leads to blurred images, and the denoising effect is not very satisfactory. Aimed at the image characteristics of low image illumination and large amount of noise and based on the characteristics of color detail blindness and simultaneous contrast of human visual perception, this paper proposes a new method for image denoising based on visual characteristics. The method uses CIELab uniform color space to dynamically and adaptively decide the filter weights, thereby reducing the damage to the image contour edges and other details, so that the denoised image can have a higher clarity. Experimental results show that this method has a brilliant denoising effect and can significantly improve the subjective and objective picture quality of downhole images.
A Note on Jordan Triple Higher *-Derivations on Semiprime Rings
Authors: Ezzat O. H.
Published: April 2014

We introduce the following notion. Let ℕ0 be the set of all nonnegative integers and let D=(di)i∈ℕ0 be a family of additive mappings of a *-ring R such that d0=idR; D is called a Jordan higher *-derivation (resp., a Jordan higher *-derivation) of R if dn(x2)=∑i+j=n‍di(x)dj(x*i) (resp., dn(xyx)=∑i+j+k=n‍di(x)dj(y*i)dk(x*i+j)) for all x,y∈R and each n∈ℕ0. It is shown that the notions of Jordan higher *-derivations and Jordan triple higher *-derivations on a 6-torsion free semiprime *-ring are coincident.
k-Step Sum and m-Step Gap Fibonacci Sequence
Authors: Adam Maria , Assimakis Nicholas
Published: April 2014

For two given integers k, m, we introduce the k-step sumand m-step gap Fibonacci sequence by presenting a recurrence formula that generates the nth term as the sum of k successive previous terms starting the sum at the mth previous term. Known sequences, like Fibonacci, tribonacci, tetranacci, and Padovan sequences, are derived for specific values of k, m. Two limiting properties concerning the terms of the sequence are presented. The limits are related to the spectral radius of the associated {0,1}-matrix.
Urinary Biomarkers of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Qasem Anass Ahmed , Farag Salama Elsayed , Hamed Emad , Emara Mohamed , Bihery Ahmed , Pasha Heba
Published: April 2014

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in cirrhotic patients. Serum creatinine is a poor biomarker for detection of renal impairment in cirrhotic patients. This study aimed to evaluate urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and urinary interleukin-18 (IL-18) as early biomarkers of acute kidney injury in cirrhotic patients. 160 patients with cirrhosis admitted to the Liver Units at Zagazig University Hospitals were classified into three groups: (I) nonascitic patients, (II) ascitic patients without renal impairment, and (III) ascitic patients with renal impairment. Patients with renal impairment were further divided into four subgroups: [A] prerenal azotemia, [B] chronic kidney disease (CKD), [C] hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), and [D] acute tubular necrosis (ATN). Significant elevation of both urinary NGAL and urinary IL-18 in cirrhotic patients with renal impairment especially in patients with ATN was observed. Urinary NGAL and urinary IL-18 have the ability to differentiate between AKI types in patients with cirrhosis. This could improve risk stratification for patients admitted to the hospital with cirrhosis, perhaps leading to early ICU admission, transplant evaluation, and prompt initiation of HRS therapy and early management of AKI.
Bertrand Curves of AW(k)-Type in the Equiform Geometry of the Galilean Space
Authors: Kızıltuğ Sezai , Yaylı Yusuf
Published: April 2014

We consider curves of AW(k)-type (1≤k≤3) in the equiform geometry of the Galilean spaceG3. We give curvature conditions of curves of AW(k)-type. Furthermore, we investigate Bertrand curves in the equiform geometry ofG3. We have shown that Bertrand curve in the equiform geometry ofG3is a circular helix. Besides, considering AW(k)-type curves, we show that there are Bertrand curves of weak AW(2)-type and AW(3)-type. But, there are no such Bertrand curves of weak AW(3)-type and AW(2)-type.
Simulations of the Light Scattering Properties of Metal/Oxide Core/Shell Nanospheres
Authors: Ruffino F. , Piccitto G. , Grimaldi M. G.
Published: April 2014

Given the importance of the optical properties of metal/dielectric core/shell nanoparticles, in this work we focus our attention on the light scattering properties, within the Mie framework, of some specific categories of these noteworthy nanostructures. In particular, we report theoretical results of angle-dependent light scattering intensity and scattering efficiency for Ag/Ag2O, Al/Al2O2, Cu/Cu2O, Pd/PdO, and Ti/TiO2core/shell nanoparticles as a function of the core radius/shell thickness ratio and on a relative comparison. The results highlight the light scattering characteristics of these systems as a function of the radius/shell thickness ratio, helping in the choice of the more suitable materials and sizes for specific applications (i.e., dynamic light scattering for biological and molecular recognition, increasing light trapping in thin-film silicon, organic solar cells for achieving a higher photocurrent).
Effect of Sweet Orange Fruit Waste Diets and Acidifier on Haematology and Serum Chemistry of Weanling Rabbits
Authors: Daudu Oluremi Martha , Sani Rahamatu Usman , Adedibu Iyetunde Ifeyori , Ademu Lawrence Anebi , Bawa Gideon Shaibu , Olugbemi Taiye Sunday
Published: April 2014

A total of thirty-five mixed breed (35) rabbits of average weight of 700 g aged 5-6 weeks were allocated to seven treatments in a completely randomised design to investigate the effect of sweet orange fruit waste (SOFW) and acidomix acidifier on haematology and serum chemistry. The diets were 0% SOFW, 10% SOFW with 0.5% acidomix, 10% SOFW with 0.7 acidomix, 15% SOFW with 0.5% acidifier, 15% SOFW with 0.7% acidifier, 20% SOFW with 0.5% acidifier, and 20% SOFW with 0.7% acidifier. Blood samples were analyzed for haemoglobin (hb) concentration, white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), differential WBC count (lymphocyte, basophil, eosinophil, monocyte, and neutrophil), alanine amino transferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate amino transferase (AST), total protein, albumin, and globulin. There was no interaction between SOFW and acidifier for the haematological and most of the serum chemistry parameters but significant difference was observed in ALT; however the values were within the normal range. SOFW had no significant effect on all haematological and serum chemistry parameters. Acidomix had significant effect (P<0.05) on haemoglobin concentration; rabbits fed 0.5% acidomix diets had higher values which were within the normal range. It is therefore concluded that SOFW with acidifier up to 20% had no detrimental effect on serum chemistry and haematology.
Microarray Analysis of the Juvenile Hormone Response in Larval Integument of the Silkworm,Bombyx mori
Authors: Cheng Daojun , Peng Jian , Meng Meng , Wei Ling , Kang Lixia , Qian Wenliang , Xia Qingyou
Published: April 2014

Juvenile hormone (JH) coordinates with 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) to regulate larval growth and molting in insects. However, little is known about how this cooperative control is achieved during larval stages. Here, we induced silkworm superlarvae by applying the JH analogue (JHA) methoprene and used a microarray approach to survey the mRNA expression changes in response to JHA in the silkworm integument. We found that JHA application significantly increased the expression levels of most genes involved in basic metabolic processes and protein processing and decreased the expression of genes associated with oxidative phosphorylation in the integument. Several key genes involved in the pathways of insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling (IIS) and 20E signaling were also upregulated after JHA application. Taken together, we suggest that JH may mediate the nutrient-dependent IIS pathway by regulating various metabolic pathways and further modulate 20E signaling.
Correlation of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology Findings with Thyroid Function Test in Cases of Lymphocytic Thyroiditis
Authors: Sood Neelam , Nigam Jitendra Singh
Published: April 2014

Background. Chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis is the second most common thyroid lesion diagnosed on FNAC after goiter. FNAC is reliable tool in the diagnosis of thyroid lesion.Objective. To correlate FNAC cytologic findings with TFT in the lymphocytic thyroiditis.Methods. 175 patients with thyroid swellings were referred for FNAC as well as TFT during 2011–2013. Fine needle aspiration cytology was performed using non-aspiration or aspiration techniques and TFT performed on Beckman culter access 2.Results. Lymphoid infiltrate was seen in 55 cases. The commonest age group of lymphocytic thyroiditis was 21–30 years with male : female ratio being 1 : 10. Anti-TPO and TSH were elevated in 96.16% (25/26) of cases with grade 3 lymphoid infiltrate, 94.12% (16/17) of cases with grade 2, and 91.67% (11/12) of cases with 1 grade. Increased anti-TPO with raised TSH without any lymphoid infiltrate was seen in 5 cases and 5 cases showed only raised TSH without raised anti-TPO and without any lymphoid infiltrate. We observed that grade 3 lymphocytic infiltration has correlation with anti-TPO and TSH together or TSH alone but not with anti-TPO alone. We also observed that anti-TPO and TSH together are significant even if no lymphocytic infiltration is present.Conclusion. Grade 3 lymphocytic infiltration has statistical correlation with anti-TPO and TSH together or TSH alone but not with anti-TPO alone. Anti TPO was adjunct to TSH in grade 3. The presence of Hurthle cell change, giant cells, and granulomas has no statistical correlation with lymphocytic thyroiditis.
Metformin Rescues the MG63 Osteoblasts against the Effect of High Glucose on Proliferation
Authors: Shao Xinyu , Cao Xiaojun , Song Ge , Zhao Yuan , Shi Bimin
Published: April 2014

Aims. To study the proliferation of osteoblasts and genes expression under normal glucose, high glucose, and metformin (Met).Methods. MG63 osteoblast-like cells were cultured in osteogenic medium supplemented with normal glucose (glucose 5.5 mmol/L) or high glucose (glucose 16.7 mmol/L) and metformin + high glucose (Met 300 μmol/L + glucose 16.7 mmol/L). Proliferation was detected with CCK-8 assay at days 1, 3, and 7. Real-time PCR and Western blot were performed to compare the expression of collagen I (Col I), osteocalcin (OCN), osteoprotegerin (OPG), receptor activator for NF-κB ligand (RANKL), and metal matrix proteinases 1 and 2 (MMP1, MMP2). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was also detected at days 6, 12, and 18.Results. Exposure to high glucose inhibited the proliferation of osteoblasts (P<0.05), with suppressed OCN and OPG. Meanwhile, Col I, RANKL, MMP1, and MMP2 were unaffected. Metformin attenuated the suppression on proliferation with increased expression of Col I, OCN, and OPG, meanwhile suppressing MMP1 and MMP2. High glucose lowered the intracellular ALP, while metformin raised it. Metformin attenuated the downregulation of ALP completely at day 6, partly at day 12, but not at day 18.Conclusions. Metformin attenuated the suppression effect of high glucose to the osteoblast proliferation and gene expression, more prominently in earlier stage.
Modelling and Prediction of Photovoltaic Power Output Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Saberian Aminmohammad , Hizam H. , Radzi M. A. M. , Ab Kadir M. Z. A. , Mirzaei Maryam
Published: April 2014

This paper presents a solar power modelling method using artificial neural networks (ANNs). Two neural network structures, namely, general regression neural network (GRNN) feedforward back propagation (FFBP), have been used to model a photovoltaic panel output power and approximate the generated power. Both neural networks have four inputs and one output. The inputs are maximum temperature, minimum temperature, mean temperature, and irradiance; the output is the power. The data used in this paper started from January 1, 2006, until December 31, 2010. The five years of data were split into two parts: 2006–2008 and 2009-2010; the first part was used for training and the second part was used for testing the neural networks. A mathematical equation is used to estimate the generated power. At the end, both of these networks have shown good modelling performance; however, FFBP has shown a better performance comparing with GRNN.
Mathematical Modeling of Transmission Dynamics and Optimal Control of Vaccination and Treatment for Hepatitis B Virus
Authors: Kamyad Ali Vahidian , Akbari Reza , Heydari Ali Akbar , Heydari Aghileh
Published: April 2014

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a worldwide public health problem. In this paper, we study the dynamics of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection which can be controlled by vaccination as well as treatment. Initially we consider constant controls for both vaccination and treatment. In the constant controls case, by determining the basic reproduction number, we study the existence and stability of the disease-free and endemic steady-state solutions of the model. Next, we take the controls as time and formulate the appropriate optimal control problem and obtain the optimal control strategy to minimize both the number of infectious humans and the associated costs. Finally at the end numerical simulation results show that optimal combination of vaccination and treatment is the most effective way to control hepatitis B virus infection.
Neural Regulation of Cardiovascular Response to Exercise: Role of Central Command and Peripheral Afferents
Authors: Nobrega Antonio C. L. , O'Leary Donal , Silva Bruno Moreira , Marongiu Elisabetta , Piepoli Massimo F. , Crisafulli Antonio
Published: April 2014

During dynamic exercise, mechanisms controlling the cardiovascular apparatus operate to provide adequate oxygen to fulfill metabolic demand of exercising muscles and to guarantee metabolic end-products washout. Moreover, arterial blood pressure is regulated to maintain adequate perfusion of the vital organs without excessive pressure variations. The autonomic nervous system adjustments are characterized by a parasympathetic withdrawal and a sympathetic activation. In this review, we briefly summarize neural reflexes operating during dynamic exercise. The main focus of the present review will be on the central command, the arterial baroreflex and chemoreflex, and the exercise pressure reflex. The regulation and integration of these reflexes operating during dynamic exercise and their possible role in the pathophysiology of some cardiovascular diseases are also discussed.
The Production of Nitric Oxide, IL-6, and TNF-Alpha in Palmitate-Stimulated PBMNCs Is Enhanced through Hyperglycemia in Diabetes
Authors: Volpe Caroline Maria Oliveira , Abreu Luana Farnese Machado , Gomes Pollyanna Stephanie , Gonzaga Raquel Miranda , Veloso Clara Araújo , Nogueira-Machado José Augusto
Published: April 2014

We examined nitric oxide (NO), IL-6, and TNF-αsecretion from cultured palmitate-stimulated PBMNCs or in the plasma from type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2MD) patients or nondiabetic (ND) controls. Free fatty acids (FFA) have been suggested to induce chronic low-grade inflammation, activate the innate immune system, and cause deleterious effects on vascular cells and other tissues through inflammatory processes. The levels of NO, IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA were higher in supernatant of palmitate stimulated blood cells (PBMNC) or from plasma from patients. The results obtained in the present study demonstrated that hyperglycemia in diabetes exacerbatesin vitroinflammatory responses in PBMNCs stimulated with high levels of SFA (palmitate). These results suggest that hyperglycemia primes PBMNCs for NO, IL-6, and TNF-alpha secretion underin vitroFFA stimulation are associated with the secretion of inflammatory biomarkers in diabetes. A combined therapy targeting signaling pathways activated by hyperglycemia in conjunction with simultaneous control of hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia would be suggested for controlling the progress of diabetic complications.
Association of Fibrinogen with Severity of Stable Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetic Mellitus
Authors: Hong Li-Feng , Li Xiao-Lin , Luo Song-Hui , Guo Yuan-Lin , Zhu Cheng-Gang , Qing Ping , Wu Na-Qiong , Li Jian-Jun
Published: April 2014

Background. Some studies have suggested a relation of plasma fibrinogen to the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, whether plasma fibrinogen can predict the presence and severity of CAD in patients with diabetes mellitus has not been determined.Methods. A total of consecutive 373 diabetic patients with typical angina pectoris who received coronary angiography were enrolled and classified into three groups by tertiles of Gensini score (GS, low group <8; intermediate group 8~28; high group >28). The relationship between fibrinogen and GS was evaluated.Results. There were correlations of fibrinogen with hemoglobin A1c, C-reactive protein, and GS (r=0.17,r=0.52, andr=0.21, resp.; allP<0.001). Area under the receivers operating characteristic curve of fibrinogen was 0.62 (95% CI 0.56–0.68,P<0.001) for predicting a high GS. Multivariate analysis suggested that plasma fibrinogen was an independent predictor of a high GS for diabetic patients (OR=1.40, 95% CI 1.04–1.88, andP=0.026) after adjusting for traditional risk factors of CAD.Conclusions. The present data indicated that plasma fibrinogen, a readily measurable systematic inflammatory marker, appeared to be an independent predictor for the severity of CAD in diabetic patients.
Large Mucocele of the Appendix at Laparoscopy Presenting as an Adnexal Mass in a Postmenopausal Woman: A Case Report
Authors: Paladino Elvira , Bellantone Maria , Conway Francesca , Sesti Francesco , Piccione Emilio , Pietropolli Adalgisa
Published: April 2014

A 79-year-old female was referred to our Gynecologic Department presenting with a pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), showing an adnexal mass, later confirmed at the pelvic examination. The patient’s routine laboratory tests were normal. A sonographic examination was performed with inconclusive results. Although the ultrasonography excluded the presence of vascularization and malignant degeneration, the adnexal localization appeared to be dubious. The laparoscopy and the subsequent histologic examination revealed the presence of a mucocele of the appendix. The following case report focuses the attention on a misdiagnosis of appendiceal mucocele. The misdiagnosis caused no negative impact on the treatment that in this case was adequate and successful.
A Bayesian Framework for Reliability Assessment via Wiener Process and MCMC
Authors: Hao Huibing , Su Chun
Published: April 2014

The population and individual reliability assessment are discussed, and a Bayesian framework is proposed to integrate the population degradation information and individual degradation data. Different from fixed effect Wiener process modeling, the population degradation path is characterized by a random effect Wiener process, and the model can capture sources of uncertainty including unit to unit variation and time correlated structure. Considering that the model is so complicated and analytically intractable, Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method is used to estimate the unknown parameters in the population model. To achieve individual reliability assessment, we exploit a Bayesian updating method, by which the unknown parameters are updated iteratively. Based on updated results, the residual use life and reliability evaluation are obtained. A lasers data example is given to demonstrate the usefulness and validity of the proposed model and method.
Pinning Stabilization of Complex Networks Coupled with Time Delay and Disturbed with Stochastic Noise
Authors: Fan Chun-Xia , Gu Yu , Wei Qingyang
Published: April 2014

A pinning stabilization problem of complex networks with time-delay coupling is studied under stochastic noisy circumstances in this paper. Only one controller is used to stabilize the network to the equilibrium point when the network is connected and the minimal number of controllers is used when the network is unconnected, where the structure of complex network is fully used. Some criteria are achieved to control the complex network under stochastic noise in the form of linear matrix inequalities. Several examples are given to show the validity of the proposed control criteria.
Linear and Nonlinear Stability Analysis of Double Diffusive Convection in a Maxwell Fluid Saturated Porous Layer with Internal Heat Source
Authors: Zhao Moli , Zhang Qiangyong , Wang Shaowei
Published: April 2014

The onset of double diffusive convection is investigated in a Maxwell fluid saturated porous layer with internal heat source. The modified Darcy law for the Maxwell fluid is used to model the momentum equation of the system, and the criterion for the onset of the convection is established through the linear and nonlinear stability analyses. The linear analysis is obtained using the normal mode technique, and the nonlinear analysis of the system is studied with the help of truncated representation of Fourier series. The effects of internal Rayleigh number, stress relaxation parameter, normalized porosity, Lewis number, Vadasz number and solute Rayleigh number on the stationary, and oscillatory and weak nonlinear convection of the system are shown numerically and graphically. The effects of various parameters on transient heat and mass transfer are also discussed and presented analytically and graphically.
Analytical Performances of Nanostructured Gold Supported on Metal Oxide Sorbents for the Determination of Gaseous Mercury
Authors: Lusilao-Makiese Julien , Tessier Emmanuel , Amouroux David , Cukrowska Ewa
Published: April 2014

Nanostructured gold supported TiO2, ZnO, and Al2O3materials (1% w/w Au) were tested as sorbents for gaseous mercury (Hg) trapping and preconcentration. Their analytical performances were first compared with the one of traditional gold wool trap for the quantification of Hg standards injected into the argon flow followed by thermal desorption at 600°C and CVAFS detection. Good linearity and reproducibility were obtained, especially for Au/TiO2material (R2=0.995; slope: 1.39) in the volume range of 10 to 60 µL (132–778 pg Hg). This latter even showed a better performance compared to pure Au in the volume range of 10 to 100 µL (132–1329 pg Hg) when the carrier gas flow was increased from 60 to 100 mL min-1. The method detection limit (MDL) obtained with Au/TiO2trap (0.10 pg Hg0 L-1) was suitable for total gaseous mercury (TGM) determination. Au/TiO2was, therefore, used in trapping and determining TGM in collected air samples. TGM values in the samples ranged from 6 to 10 ng m-3. Similar results were obtained with the commercial gold-coated sand trap which showed an average TGM concentration of7.8±0.9 ng m-3.
A Singular Initial-Value Problem for Second-Order Differential Equations
Authors: Aslanov Afgan
Published: April 2014

We are interested in the existence of solutions to initial-value problems for second-order nonlinear singular differential equations. We show that the existence of a solution can be explained in terms of a more simple initial-value problem. Local existence and uniqueness of solutions are proven under conditions which are considerably weaker than previously known conditions.
Technical Development of a New Semispherical Radiofrequency Bipolar Device (RONJA):Ex VivoandIn VivoStudies
Authors: Vavra Petr , Penhaker Marek , Grepl Jan , Jurcikova Jana , Palecek Jiri , Crha Michal , Nowakova Jana , Hasal Martin , Skrobankova Martina , Ostruszka Petr , Ihnat Peter , Delongova Patricie , Salounova Dana , Habib Nagy A. , Zonca Pavel
Published: April 2014

The aim of this study is to inform about the development of a new semispherical surgical instrument for the bipolar multielectrode radiofrequency liver ablation. Present tools are universal; however they have several disadvantages such as ablation of healthy tissue, numerous needle punctures, and, therefore, longer operating procedure. Our newly designed and tested semispherical surgical tool can solve some of these disadvantages. By conducting anin vivostudy on a set of 12 pigs, randomly divided into two groups, we have compared efficiency of the newly developed instrument with the commonly used device. Statistical analysis showed that there were no significant differences between the groups. On average, the tested instrument RONJA had shorter ablation time in both liver lobes and reduced the total operating time. The depth of the thermal alteration was on average 4 mm larger using the newly tested instrument. The new radiofrequency method described in this study could be used in open liver surgery for the treatment of small liver malignancies (up to 2 cm) in a single application with the aim of saving healthy liver parenchyma. Further experimental studies are needed to confirm these results before clinical application of the method in the treatment of human liver malignancies.
Feasibility of Dual-Task Gait Training for Community-Dwelling Adults after Stroke: A Case Series
Authors: Plummer Prudence , Villalobos Raymond M. , Vayda Moira S. , Moser Myriam , Johnson Erin
Published: April 2014

This case series explored the feasibility and efficacy of cognitive-motor dual-task gait training in community-dwelling adults within 12 months of stroke. A secondary aim was to assess transfer of training to different dual-task combinations. Seven male participants within 12 months of stroke participated in 12 sessions of dual-task gait training. We examined single and dual-task performance in four different dual-task combinations at baseline, after 6 and 12 sessions, and if possible, at 1-month followup. Feasibility was assessed by asking participants to rate mental and physical fatigue, perceived difficulty, anxiety, and fear of falling at the end of each session. Five of the seven participants demonstrated reduced dual-task cost in gait speed in at least one of the dual-task combinations after the intervention. Analysis of the patterns of interference in the gait and cognitive tasks suggested that the way in which the participants allocated their attention between the simultaneous tasks differed across tasks and, in many participants, changed over time. Dual-task gait training is safe and feasible within the first 12 months after stroke, and may improve dual-task walking speed. Individuals with a combination of physical and cognitive impairments may not be appropriate for dual-task gait training.
A New Optical Surface Measurement Method with Iterative Sparsity-Constrained Threshold Phase Retrieval Algorithm
Authors: Niu Yi , Liu Yang , Shi Guangming , Gao Dahua , Li Guo
Published: April 2014

Due to its low complexity and acceptable accuracy, phase retrieval technique has been proposed as an alternative to solve the classic optical surface measurement task. However, to capture the overall wave field, phase retrieval based optical surface measurement (PROSM) system has to moderate the CCD position during the multiple-sampling procedure. The mechanical modules of CCD movement may bring about unexpectable deviation to the final results. To overcome this drawback, we propose a new PROSM method based on spatial light modulator (SLM). The mechanical CCD movement can be replaced by an electrical moderation of SLM patterns; thus the deviation can be significantly suppressed in the new PROSM method. In addition, to further improve the performance, we propose a new iterative threshold phase retrieval algorithm with sparsity-constraint to effectively reconstruct the phase of wave field. Experimental results show that the new method provides a more simple and robust solution for the optical surface measurement than the traditional techniques and achieves higher accuracy.
Sequential Appointment Scheduling Considering Walk‐In Patients
Authors: Yan Chongjun , Tang Jiafu , Jiang Bowen
Published: April 2014

This paper develops a sequential appointment algorithm considering walk‐in patients. In practice, the scheduler assigns an appointment time for each call‐in patient before the call ends, and the appointment time cannot be changed once it is set. Each patient has a certain probability of being a no‐show patient on the day of appointment. The objective is to determine the optimal booking number of patients and the optimal scheduling time for each patient to maximize the revenue of all the arriving patients minus the expenses of waiting time and overtime. Based on the assumption that the service time is exponentially distributed, this paper proves that the objective function is convex. A sufficient condition under which the profit function is unimodal is provided. The numerical results indicate that the proposed algorithm outperforms all the commonly used heuristics, lowering the instances of no‐shows, and walk‐in patients can improve the service efficiency and bring more profits to the clinic. It is also noted that the potential appointment is an effective alternative to mitigate no‐show phenomenon.
An Exact Solution of the Binary Singular Problem
Authors: Sun Baiqing , Tang Kun , Zhang Hongmei , Xiong Shan
Published: April 2014

Singularity problem exists in various branches of applied mathematics. Such ordinary differential equations accompany singular coefficients. In this paper, by using the properties of reproducing kernel, the exact solution expressions of dual singular problem are given in the reproducing kernel space and studied, also for a class of singular problem. For the binary equation of singular points, I put it into the singular problem first, and then reuse some excellent properties which are applied to solve the method of solving differential equations for its exact solution expression of binary singular integral equation in reproducing kernel space, and then obtain its approximate solution through the evaluation of exact solutions. Numerical examples will show the effectiveness of this method.
Gaseous Oxidized Mercury Dry Deposition Measurements in the Southwestern USA: A Comparison between Texas, Eastern Oklahoma, and the Four Corners Area
Authors: Sather Mark E. , Mukerjee Shaibal , Allen Kara L. , Smith Luther , Mathew Johnson , Jackson Clarence , Callison Ryan , Scrapper Larry , Hathcoat April , Adam Jacque , Keese Danielle , Ketcher Philip , Brunette Robert , Karlstrom Jason , Van der Jagt Gerard
Published: April 2014

Gaseous oxidized mercury (GOM) dry deposition measurements using aerodynamic surrogate surface passive samplers were collected in central and eastern Texas and eastern Oklahoma, from September 2011 to September 2012. The purpose of this study was to provide an initial characterization of the magnitude and spatial extent of ambient GOM dry deposition in central and eastern Texas for a 12-month period which contained statistically average annual results for precipitation totals, temperature, and wind speed. The research objective was to investigate GOM dry deposition in areas of Texas impacted by emissions from coal-fired utility boilers and compare it with GOM dry deposition measurements previously observed in eastern Oklahoma and the Four Corners area. Annual GOM dry deposition rate estimates were relatively low in Texas, ranging from 0.1 to 0.3 ng/m2h at the four Texas monitoring sites, similar to the 0.2 ng/m2h annual GOM dry deposition rate estimate recorded at the eastern Oklahoma monitoring site. The Texas and eastern Oklahoma annual GOM dry deposition rate estimates were at least four times lower than the highest annual GOM dry deposition rate estimate previously measured in the more arid bordering western states of New Mexico and Colorado in the Four Corners area.
A Case Series of Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
Authors: Arsene Camelia , Saste Abhijit , Arul Shankar , Mestrovich Janee , Kammo Revark , Elbashir Mohammed , Berger Gregory
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an uncommon infection characterized by gas in the renal parenchyma and surrounding tissues. It is rapidly progressive, requiring appropriate therapy to salvage the infected kidney.Case Description. The case series presents 5 patients with a clinical and radiologic diagnosis of EPN. Each patient had a unique predisposing factor for developing EPN. Early goal directed therapy with intravenous fluids and antibiotics was given. This was followed by less invasive urologic interventions in an attempt to avoid nephrectomy and thereby salvage the infected kidney. All five patients were discharged in clinically stable conditions.Discussion and Conclusion. This case series provides added practice based support to available literature for managing EPN. Early goal directed medical therapy for sepsis coupled with interventional urologic procedures is a valuable alternative to circumvent an upfront emergent nephrectomy, except in cases where a fulminant infection may be present at the time of admission or develop later on in the course of the patients illness despite conservative line of therapy. It also highlights the importance of considering a diagnosis of EPN in patients with urinary infections, who have certain common predisposing factors listed in our case series.
Potential Therapeutic Effects of Neurotrophins for Acute and Chronic Neurological Diseases
Authors: Cai Junying , Hua Fuzhou , Yuan Linhui , Tang Wei , Lu Jun , Yu Shuchun , Wang Xifeng , Hu Yanhui
Published: April 2014

The neurotrophins (NTs) nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), NT-3, and NT-4/5 are proteins that regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival in both the developing and mature central nervous system (CNS) by binding to two receptor classes, Trk receptors and p75 NTR. Motivated by the broad growth- and survival-promoting effects of these proteins, numerous studies have attempted to use exogenous NTs to prevent the death of cells that are associated with neurological disease or promote the regeneration of severed axons caused by mechanical injury. Indeed, such neurotrophic effects have been repeatedly demonstrated in animal models of stroke, nerve injury, and neurodegenerative disease. However, limitations, including the short biological half-lives and poor blood-brain permeability of these proteins, prevent routine application from treating human disease. In this report, we reviewed evidence for the neuroprotective efficacy of NTs in animal models, highlighting outstanding technical challenges and discussing more recent attempts to harness the neuroprotective capacity of endogenous NTs using small molecule inducers and cell transplantation.
Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oil and Extracts ofValeriana jatamansiRoots
Authors: Thusoo Sakshima , Gupta Sahil , Sudan Rasleen , Kour Jaspreet , Bhagat Sahil , Hussain Rashid , Bhagat Madhulika
Published: April 2014

Valeriana jatamansiis an indigenous medicinal plant used in the treatment of a number of diseases. In the present study, chemical composition of the essential oil was determined by GC-MS. Seven major components were identified inValeriana jatamansiessential oil, namely,β-vatirenene,β-patchoulene, dehydroaromadendrene,β-gurjunene, patchoulic alcohol,β-guaiene, andα-muurolene. Methanolic, aqueous, and chloroform extracts ofValeriana jatamansiroots were also prepared and analyzed for their polyphenols and flavonoid content. Antioxidant activity of essential oil and different extracts ofValeriana jatamansiroots was determined by DPPH radical scavenging and chelation power assay. A linear correlation has been obtained by comparing the antioxidant activity and polyphenols and flavonoid content of the extracts. Results indicated that antioxidant activity of methanolic extract could be attributed to the presence of rich amount of polyphenols and flavonoid. Essential oil ofValeriana jatamansiroots showed moderate antioxidant activity.
Temporal Regulation of Cytokines by the Circadian Clock
Authors: Nakao Atsuhito
Published: April 2014

Several parameters of the immune system exhibit oscillations with a period of approximately 24 hours that refers to “circadian rhythms.” Such daily variations in host immune system status might evolve to maximize immune reactions at times when encounters with pathogens are most likely to occur. However, the mechanisms behind circadian immunity have not been fully understood. Recent studies reveal that the internal time keeping system “circadian clock” plays a key role in driving the daily rhythms evident in the immune system. Importantly, several studies unveil molecular mechanisms of how certain clock proteins (e.g., BMAL1 and CLOCK) temporally regulate expression of cytokines. Since cytokines are crucial mediators for shaping immune responses, this review mainly summarizes the new knowledge that highlights an emerging role of the circadian clock as a novel regulator of cytokines. A greater understanding of circadian regulation of cytokines will be important to exploit new strategies to protect host against infection by efficient cytokine induction or to treat autoimmunity and allergy by ameliorating excessive activity of cytokines.
Effect of One-Target Focus Type on Hydrodynamic Characteristics of Tower Solar Cavity Receiver
Authors: Hao Yun , Chen Kaituo , Wang Yueshe , Hu Tian
Published: April 2014

On account of one-target focus type of the heliostats in the tower solar power technology, the heat transfer was analyzed for the vapor-liquid two-phase or single-phase superheated steam in the parallel heated panel bundles of the solar cavity receiver. A nonlinear mathematical model of the hydrodynamic characteristics in the evaporation panels was developed to obtain the flow rate distribution, thermal deviation, and two-phase flow circulation reliability of the working fluid under the severe nonuniform heat flux from the one-target focus of the heliostats. The simulation results show that for the evaporation panels the flow distribution can synchronize with that of the heat flux at the low heat flux, while for the superheater sections the flow distribution decreases with the increase of heat flux. This desynchrony may give rise to stagnation or backflow of the working fluid and lead to the panels burst or erosion due to the local overheating in some extreme situation.
A Makespan Optimization Scheme for NP-Hard Gari Processing Job Scheduling Using Improved Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Sosimi Adeyanju , Ogunwolu Folorunso Oladimeji , Adegbola Taoreed
Published: April 2014

An optimization scheme for minimizing makespan of Gari processing jobs using improved initial population Genetic Algorithm (GA) is proposed. GA with initial population improved by using job sequencing and dispatching rules of First Come First Served (FCFS), Shortest Processing Time (SPT), Longest Processing Time (LPT), and Modified Johnson’s Algorithm form-machines in order to obtain better schedules than is affordable by GA with freely generated initial population and by individual traditional sequencing and dispatching rules was used. The traditional GA crossover and mutation operators as well as a custom-made remedial operator were used together with a hybrid of elitism and roulette wheel algorithms in the selection process based on job completion times. A test problem of 20 jobs with specified job processing and arrival times was simulated through the integral 5-process Gari production routine using the sequencing and dispatching rules, GA with freely generated initial population, and the improved GA. Comparisons based on performance measures such as optimal makespan, mean makespan, execution time, and solution improvement rate established the superiority of the improved initial population GA over the traditional sequencing and dispatching rules and freely generated initial population GA.
Novel Applicators for Local Microwave Hyperthermia Based on Zeroth-Order Mode Resonator Metamaterial
Authors: Vrba David , Vrba Jan
Published: April 2014

It is demonstrated that a theory of zero-order mode resonator (ZOR) metamaterial (MTM) structure can be used for the development of a novel class of applicators for microwave thermotherapy, for example, for hyperthermia in cancer treatment or for physiotherapy. The main idea of creating such an applicator is to generate and radiate a plane electromagnetic (EM) wave into the treated biological tissue, at least in a certain extent. The main aim of this paper is to investigate whether an EM wave generated by ZOR MTM structure and emitted into the biological tissue can produce a homogeneous SAR distribution in the planes parallel to the applicator aperture and achieve a penetration depth approaching the theoretical limit represented by SAR distribution and penetration depth of an ideal EM plane wave. EM field distribution inside a virtual phantom of the treated region generated by the applicator that is based on the proposed ZOR MTM principle is investigated using a well-proven full-wave commercial simulation tool. The proposed applicator type shows both a low unwanted leaked electromagnetic field and a fairly homogeneous electric field in its aperture as well as in the virtual phantom of the treated region.
Nonnegative Matrix Factorization Based Adaptive Noise Sensing over Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Jeon Kwang Myung , Kim Hong Kook , Lee Sung Joo , Lee Yun Keun
Published: April 2014

An adaptive noise sensing method is proposed to improve the speech sensing performance of speech-based applications operated over wireless sensor networks. The proposed method is based on nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF), which consists of adaptive noise sensing and noise reduction. In other words, adaptive noise sensing is performed by adapting a priori noise basis matrix of the NMF, which is estimated from the noise signal, resulting in an adapted noise basis matrix. Subsequently, the adapted noise basis matrix is used for the NMF decomposition of noisy speech into clean speech and background noise. The estimated clean speech signal is then applied to a front-end of the speech-based applications. The performance of the proposed NMF-based noise sensing and reduction method is first evaluated by measuring the source to distortion ratio (SDR), the source to interferences ratio (SIR), and the source to artifacts ratio (SAR). In addition, the proposed method is applied to an automatic speech recognition (ASR) system, which is a typical speech-based application, and then the average word error rate (WER) of the ASR is compared with that employing either a Wiener filter, or a conventional NMF-based noise reduction method using only a priori noise basis matrix.
The Normality Criteria of Meromorphic Functions Concerning Shared Fixed-Points
Authors: Chen Wei , Yang Qi , Yuan Wen-jun , Tian Hong-gen
Published: April 2014

We study the normality criteria of meromorphic functions concerning shared fixed-points; we obtain the following: Letℱbe a family of meromorphic functions defined in a domainDandk≥2a positive integer. For everyf∈ℱ, all zeros offare of multiplicity at leastk+2and all poles offare multiple. Ifff(k)andgg(k)sharezinDfor each pair of functionsfandg, thenℱis normal.