bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wound blotting: A convenient biochemical assessment tool for protein components in exudate of chronic wounds
Authors: Minematsu Takeo , Nakagami Gojiro , Yamamoto Yuko , Kanazawa Toshiki , Huang Lijuan , Koyanagi Hiroe , Sasaki Sanae , Uchida Gentaro , Fujita Hideki , Haga Nobuhiko , Yoshimura Kotaro , Nagase Takashi , Sanada Hiromi
Published: February 2013

Because wound exudate includes secreted proteins that affect wound healing, its biochemical analysis is useful for objective assessment of chronic wounds. Wound blotting allows for collection of fresh exudate by attaching a nitrocellulose membrane onto the wound surface. To determine its applicability for several analysis methods and its executability in clinical wound assessment, this study comprised an animal experiment and clinical case reports. In the animal experiment, full‐thickness wounds were created on the dorsal skin of mice, and exudate samples were collected daily by a conventional method and by wound blotting. Extremely small but adequate volumes of exudate were collected by wound blotting for subsequent analysis in the animal experiments. Immunostaining showed the concentration and distribution of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α. The activity of alkaline phosphatase was visualized by reaction with chemiluminescent substrate. The TNF distribution analysis indicated three different patterns: wound edge distribution, wound bed distribution, and a mostly negative pattern in both the animal and clinical studies, suggesting association between the TNF distribution pattern and wound healing. Our results indicate that wound blotting is a convenient method for biochemical analysis of exudate and a candidate tool with which to predict the healing/deterioration of chronic ulcers.
Randomized controlled trial on collagen/oxidized regenerated cellulose/silver treatment
Authors: Gottrup Finn , Cullen Breda Mary , Karlsmark Tonny , Bischoff‐Mikkelsen Morten , Nisbet Lorraine , Gibson Molly Camilla
Published: February 2013

Collagen/oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC)/silver therapy has been designed to facilitate wound healing by normalizing the microenvironment and correcting biochemical imbalances in chronic wounds. The aim of this study was to compare collagen/ORC/silver therapy to control (standard treatment). Patients with diabetic foot ulcers were randomized to either collagen/ORC/silver (24) or control treatment (15). Wound area measurements and wound fluid samples were taken weekly. Protease levels were measured in wound fluid samples to investigate differences between responders (≥50% reduction in wound area by week 4) and nonresponders (<50% reduction in wound area by week 4). There were significantly more responders in the collagen/ORC/silver group compared with the control group (79% vs. 43%, p = 0.035). There were significantly fewer withdrawals from the study because of infection in the collagen/ORC/silver group compared with the control group (0% vs. 31%, p = 0.012). The sum of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 and elastase concentration was higher in nonresponders compared with responders at baseline (p = 0.0705) and week 4 (p = 0.012). The results suggest that collagen/ORC/silver normalizes the wound microenvironment and protects against infection, resulting in improved wound healing. It was also demonstrated that measuring a combination of proteases may be a more relevant prognostic healing marker than any individual protease alone.
Transgenic mice overexpressing CD109 in the epidermis display decreased inflammation and granulation tissue and improved collagen architecture during wound healing
Authors: Vorstenbosch Joshua , Gallant‐Behm Corrie , Trzeciak Alissa , Roy Stéphane , Mustoe Thomas , Philip Anie
Published: February 2013

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) is a multifunctional growth factor involved in all aspects of wound healing. TGF‐β accelerates wound healing, but an excess of its presence at the wound site has been implicated in pathological scar formation. Our group has recently identified CD109, a glycophosphatidylinositol‐anchored protein, as a novel TGF‐β coreceptor and inhibitor of TGF‐β signaling in vitro. To determine the effects of CD109 in vivo on wound healing, we generated transgenic mice overexpressing CD109 in the epidermis. In excisional wounds, we show that CD109 transgenic mice display markedly reduced macrophage and neutrophil recruitment, granulation tissue area, and decreased Smad2 and Smad3 phosphorylation, whereas wound closure remains unaffected as compared with wild‐type littermates. Futhermore, we demonstrate that the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin‐1α and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, and extracellular matrix components is markedly decreased during wound healing in CD109 transgenic mice. In incisional wounds, CD109 transgenic mice show improved dermal architecture, whereas the tensile strength of the wound remains unchanged. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that CD109 overexpression in the epidermis reduces inflammation and granulation tissue area and improves collagen organization in vivo.
Random Vibration Analysis of Planetary Gear Trains
Authors: Yang Jianming , Yang Ping
Published: February 2013

This article investigates the vibration response of a planetary gear train under excitations of both deterministic and random loads. A lumped parameter model has been used in this investigation and the random excitations are represented by white noise. One version of the stochastic Newmark algorithms is employed to solve for both sample path response and the statistics of the response. The mean and the variance for all state variables are obtained through the same algorithm. The effects of three different levels of noise on the statistics are compared against each other.
Probabilistic Interval Perturbation Methods for Hybrid Uncertain Acoustic Field Prediction
Authors: Xia Baizhan , Yu Dejie , Liu Jian
Published: February 2013

For the hybrid uncertain acoustic field prediction with random and interval variables, the random interval dynamic equilibrium equation is established and two hybrid probabilistic interval perturbation methods, named as hybrid perturbation Monte Carlo method (HPMCM) and hybrid perturbation vertex method (HPVM), are present. In HPMCM, the intervals of expectation and variance of sound pressure are calculated by a combination of the random interval matrix perturbation method, the random interval moment method and Monte Carlo method. In HPVM, the intervals of expectation and variance of sound pressure are calculated by a combination of the random interval matrix perturbation method, the random interval moment method and the vertex method. Numerical results on a 2D acoustic tube, the 2D acoustic cavity of a car and a 3D acoustic cavity verify the effectiveness and the high efficiency of HPVM when compared with HPMCM. HPVM can be considered as an effective engineering method to quantify the effects of parametric uncertainty on the sound pressure response.
Statics and Dynamics of MEMS Arches Under Axial Forces
Authors: Alkharabsheh Sami A. , Younis Mohammad I.
Published: February 2013

This works aims to investigate the effect of axial forces on the static behavior and the fundamental natural frequency of electrostatically actuated MEMS arches. The analysis is based on a nonlinear equation of motion of a shallow arch under axial and electrostatic forces. The static equation is solved using a reduced-order model based on the Galerkin procedure. The effects of the axial and electrostatic forces on the static response are examined. Then, the eigenvalue problem of the arch is solved for various equilibrium positions. Several results are shown for the variations of the natural frequency and equilibrium position of the arch under axial forces ranging from compressive loads beyond buckling to tensile loads and for voltage loads starting from small values to large values near the pull-in instability. It is found that the dynamics of MEMS arches are very sensitive to axial forces, which may be induced unintentionally through microfabrication processes or due to temperature variations while in use. On the other hand, it is shown that axial forces can be used deliberately to control the dynamics of MEMS arches to achieve desirable functions, such as extending their stable operation range and tuning their natural frequencies.
Complex Modal Analysis of the Swimming Motion of a Whiting
Authors: Feeny B. F. , Feeny A. K.
Published: February 2013

The kinematics of the transverse motion of a swimming fish are analyzed using a complex modal decomposition. Cinematographic images of a swimming whiting (Gadus merlangus) were obtained from the work of Sir James Gray (1933, “Studies in Animal Locomotion III. The Propulsive Mechanism of the Whiting (Gadus merlangus),” J. Exp. Biol., 10, pp. 391–402). The position of the midline for each image was determined and used to produce planar positions of virtual markers distributed along the midline of the fish. Transverse deflections of each virtual marker were then used for the complex orthogonal decomposition of modes. This method was applied to images of a whiting before and after amputation in a Newtonian frame of reference and an “anterior-body-fixed” frame as well. The fish motions were well represented by a single complex mode, which was then used as a modal filter. The extracted mode and modal coordinate were used to estimate the frequency, wavelength, and wave speed. The amputated fish was compared to the nonamputated fish, and the amount of traveling in the respective waveforms was quantified. The dominant complex mode shape and the estimated modal frequency were employed to reanimate the fish motion.
Optimal Tuning for Fractional-Order Controllers: An Integer-Order Approximating Filter Approach
Authors: Amin Rahimian Mohammad , Saleh Tavazoei Mohammad
Published: February 2013

This paper offers a systematic framework for the design of suboptimal integer-order controllers based on fractional-order structures. The proposed approach is built upon the integer-order approximations that are traditionally used to implement fractional-order controllers after they are designed. Accordingly, the fractional-order structures are exploited to derive a suitable parameterization for a fixed-structure integer-order controller. The parameters, which describe the structure of the fixed-order integer controller, are the same as those used to describe the original fractional structure. Optimal tuning is then performed in the parameter space of the fractional structure and the resultant set of optimum parameters will determine the optimal integer-order controller. The proposed approach outperforms traditional implementations of optimal fractional controllers and presents an alternative that attempts to capture merits of both fractional-order and integer-order structures.
Determination of the State of Wear of High Contact Ratio Gear Sets by Means of Spectrum and Cepstrum Analysis
Authors: Ziaran Stanislav , Darula Radoslav
Published: February 2013

The paper presents basic procedures and methods used for determining the state of wear of high contact ratio (HCR) gear sets comparing frequency spectra and cepstra recorded throughout their lifetime tests, through vibro-acoustic diagnostics. After a study and calculation of characteristic frequencies, the authors experimentally measured the dynamical behavior of the gear sets in order to determine their frequency spectra. To gain additional information about possible damage, cepstrum was evaluated for each measurement as well. Experiments were carried out on a FZG back-to-back test gearbox, equipped with HCR test gears during their lifecycle. The frequency spectrum and cepstrum was assigned to a specific percentage of pitting occurrence. Analyzed values of amplitudes at mesh frequency components and their sidebands (as well as corresponding quefrencies) in the spectrum (and cepstrum) were compared and the state of wear was assigned to each frequency (quefrency) response. The results from lifetime tests of two gear sets indicate that by means of FFT (as well as cepstrum) analysis the incubational phase (i.e., a cavity origination under a surface in contact) of the gear fault can be determined. This is not possible using classical (e.g., visual) methods. Furthermore, it was observed that pitting and thermal scuffing are distinguishable also at higher harmonics (the fifth and even sixth), which can be also used as an indicator of gear damage. Vibro-acoustic diagnostics is a feasible nondisassembling method used for the investigation and prediction of gear failure level in HCR gear wheels. It is shown to be a reliable method capable of predicting failure earlier than a classical visual (disassembling) approach.
The feasibility of a piecewise‐linear dynamic bowtie filter
Authors: Hsieh Scott S. , Pelc Norbert J.
Published: February 2013

Purpose:

The prepatient attenuator (or “bowtie filter”) in CT is used to modulate the flux as a function of fan angle of the x‐ray beam incident on the patient. Traditional, static bowtie filters are tailored only for very generic scans and for the average patient. The authors propose a design for a dynamic bowtie that can produce a time‐dependent piecewise‐linear attenuation profile. This dynamic bowtie may reduce dynamic range, dose or scatter, but in this work they focus on its ability to reduce dynamic range, which may be particularly important for systems employing photon‐counting detectors.

Methods:

The dynamic bowtie is composed of a set of triangular wedges. Each wedge is independently moved in order to produce a time‐dependent piecewise‐linear attenuation profile. Simulations of the bowtie are conducted to estimate the dynamic range reduction in six clinical datasets. The control of the dynamic bowtie is determined by solving a convex optimization problem, and the dose is estimated using Monte Carlo techniques. Beam hardening artifacts are also simulated.

Results:

The dynamic range is reduced by factors ranging from 2.4 to 27 depending on the part of the body studied. With a dynamic range minimization objective, the dose to the patient can be reduced from 6% to 33% while maintaining peak image noise. Further reduction in dose may be possible with a specific dose reduction objective. Beam hardening artifacts are suppressed with a two‐pass algorithm.

Conclusions:

A dynamic bowtie producing a time‐dependent, piecewise‐linear attenuation profile is possible and can be used to modulate the flux of the scanner to the imaging task. Initial simulations show a large reduction in dynamic range. Several other applications are possible.
A TCP model for external beam treatment of intermediate‐risk prostate cancer
Authors: Walsh Seán , van der Putten Wil
Published: February 2013

Purpose:

Biological models offer the ability to predict clinical outcomes. The authors describe a model to predict the clinical response of intermediate‐risk prostate cancer to external beam radiotherapy for a variety of fractionation regimes.

Methods:

A fully heterogeneous population averaged tumor control probability model was fit to clinical outcome data for hyper, standard, and hypofractionated treatments. The tumor control probability model was then employed to predict the clinical outcome of extreme hypofractionation regimes, as utilized in stereotactic body radiotherapy.

Results:

The tumor control probability model achieves an excellent level of fit, R2 value of 0.93 and a root mean squared error of 1.31%, to the clinical outcome data for hyper, standard, and hypofractionated treatments using realistic values for biological input parameters. Residuals ⩽1.0% are produced by the tumor control probability model when compared to clinical outcome data for stereotactic body radiotherapy.

Conclusions:

The authors conclude that this tumor control probability model, used with the optimized radiosensitivity values obtained from the fit, is an appropriate mechanistic model for the analysis and evaluation of external beam RT plans with regard to tumor control for these clinical conditions.
Structural characterization of the model amphipathic peptide Ac-LKKLLKLLKKLLKL-NH2 in aqueous solution and with 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol and 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroisopropanol
Authors: Buchko Garry W. , Jain Avijita , Reback Matthew L. , Shaw Wendy J.
Published: February 2013

Short-chain amphipathic peptides are promising components in the new generation of engineered biomaterials. The model 14-residue leucine–lysine peptide Ac-LKKLLKLLKKLLKL-NH2 (LKα) is one such amphipathic peptide. In dilute aqueous solution (<0.05 mmol/L), it was previously proposed, using CD spectroscopic data, that LKα existed in a cooperative monomeric (unstructured) – tetrameric (α-helical) equilibrium that shifted towards the tetramer at high NaCl and peptide concentrations. Here, at similar peptide concentrations, CD spectroscopy shows that LKα readily adopts α-helical structure in the presence of 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (TFE) and 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) with maximal helical character in 20% TFE and ∼10% HFIP (v/v). The helical character in fluorinated alcohols suggested by the CD data at low peptide concentrations (0.06 mmol/L) is corroborated at high peptide concentrations (1.5 mmol/L) by NMR NOE data that also show that 1.5 mmol/L LKα is helical in 100% water. Size exclusion chromatography and estimations of rotational correlation times (τc) showed that the self-assembled LKα complexes contained three to five peptides. Removing the N-terminal acetyl group prevents LKα from forming helices and self-associating at high NaCl and peptide concentrations. This more detailed characterization of the structural and physical properties of LKα over a greater range of peptide concentrations and in the presence of fluorinated alcohols will assist the design of biomaterials containing amphipathic peptides and guide the ability to control self-assembly.
Franck–Condon factors—Computational approaches and recent developments
Authors: Borrelli Raffaele , Capobianco Amedeo , Peluso Andrea
Published: February 2013

Algorithms and methodologies for the calculation of Franck–Condon integrals are reviewed. Starting from the standard approach based on the Cartesian representation of the normal modes and the use of Duschinsky's transformation and recursion formulas, methods for treating large displacements of the equilibrium positions and anharmonic and non-Condon effects are considered. Finally, focusing attention on problems arising from the use of recurrence relations, some of the proposed solutions are critically reviewed along with new alternative approaches.
Rational questing for inhibitors of endothelin converting enzyme-1 from Salvia miltiorrhiza by combining ligand- and structure-based virtual screening
Authors: Wang Xing , Xiang Yuhong , Ren Zhenzhen , Zhang Yanling , Qiao Yanjiang
Published: February 2013

In this study, a virtual screening approach based on pharmacophore and molecular docking was proposed to identify endothelin converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1) (EC 3.4.24.71) inhibitors from Salvia miltiorrhiza. First, the pharmacophore models were generated to recognize the common features of the ECE-1 inhibitors. The models were validated by a test database composed by a set of compounds known as ECE-1 inhibitors and nonactive compounds and proven to be successful in discriminating active and inactive inhibitors. Then, the best pharmacophore model was used to screen the compounds from S. miltiorrhiza. Furthermore, the Surflex-Dock procedure was used for molecular docking. All compounds from S. miltiorrhiza were docked into the active site of the target protein. An empirical scoring function was used to evaluate the affinity of the compounds and the target protein. Comparing the virtual screening results based on pharmacophore and molecular docking, respectively, 11 communal compounds with higher QFIT and docking score were hit, and the activity of some compounds was validated in the literature. The binding modes between these compounds and the ECE-1 binding site were predicted and used to identify the key interactions that contribute to the inhibitory activity of ECE-1 activity. The results show that the two methods have good consistency and can be validated and supplemented with each other.
Chemical bonding in groups 10, 11, and 12 transition metal homodimers — An electron density study
Authors: Sadjadi SeyedAbdolreza , Matta Chérif F. , Hamilton I.P.
Published: February 2013

The properties of metal–metal bonding for transition metal homonuclear diatomics from groups 10, 11 and 12 are studied within the framework of the quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) at the coupled cluster CCSD and CCSD(T) levels of theory. A novel approximate method developed by Keith and Frisch is used to augment electron densities calculated with pseudopotentials with the missing relativistic core densities to obtain approximations to the total densities of the dimers. The calculated delocalization indices for group 10 dimers are: Ni2(1.6), Pd2(0.44, an outlier in the group), and Pt2(1.8); for group 11 dimers: Cu2and Ag2(1.01), and Au2(1.13), all covalent bonds; for group 12: Zn2(0.06), Cd2(0.08), and Hg2(0.09), all consistent with weak van der Waals complexes. The picture of bonding obtained by examining the values of the electron density at the bond critical points is consistent with the one obtained on the basis of these delocalization indices. A curious linear (instead of exponential) dependence of the delocalization index on the electron density at the bond critical point is presented here as an observation and will be investigated in more depth in later work. Several correlations between bond properties and bond dissociation energies are also explored. It is found that, with the exception of the Ni2dimer that exhibits considerable multi-reference character, there are correlations between the calculated bond dissociation energies of the studied diatomics and several bond critical point properties. These correlations are novel as they span a set of bonds between different pairs of elements, while traditionally these correlations were reported for bonds between the same pair or elements but with different substituents.
The general solution of the Schrödinger equation for bound states
Authors: Janavičius A.J. , Žilinskas K.
Published: February 2013

In this paper the Schrödinger equation for negative energies in the potential representation was considered, transforming it into integral equations. We presented the wave function multiplying the known solution on a function which depends on additional interaction potential. In this paper, we obtained and considered integral equations for defining eigenfunctions and eigenvalues of the perturbed system using unperturbed solutions of the Schrödinger equation. We used the obtained integral equations for finding eigenfunctions and eigenvalues for the Saxon–Woods potential using a harmonic oscillator like the model potential.
Connexins and steroidogenesis in mouse Leydig cells
Authors: Li Dan , Sekhon Poonampreet , Barr Kevin J. , Márquez-Rosado Lucrecia , Lampe Paul D. , Kidder Gerald M.
Published: February 2013

Connexin43 has been recognized as forming gap junctions in Leydig cells. However, previous work has shown that mouse Leydig cells lacking this connexin do not suffer any limitation of their ability to produce testosterone when stimulated with luteinizing hormone. The objective of this study was to identify additional connexins in mouse Leydig cells that could be required for steroidogenesis. A reverse transcription – polymerase chain reaction screen involving isolated adult Leydig cells identified connexin36 and connexin45 as expressed along with connexin43. Treatment of dissociated testes with carbenoxolone, a nonspecific blocker of gap junctional coupling, significantly reduced testosterone output as did treatment with quinine, which disrupts coupling provided by connexin36 and connexin45 gap junctions but not those composed of connexin43, indicating that either or both of connexins 36 and 45 could be involved in supporting Leydig cell steroidogenesis. Immunolabeling of adult mouse testis sections confirmed the localization of connexin36 along with connexin43 in Leydig cell gap junctions but not connexin45, which is distributed throughout the cells. It was concluded that connexin36, connexin43, and connexin45 are coexpressed in Leydig cells with connexins 36 and 43 contributing to gap junctions. The role of connexin45 remains to be elucidated.
CHAOS GENERATED FROM THE FRACTIONAL-ORDER COMPLEX CHEN SYSTEM AND ITS APPLICATION TO DIGITAL SECURE COMMUNICATION
Authors: LUO CHAO , WANG XINGYUAN
Published: February 2013

In this paper, a novel dynamic system, the fractional-order complex Chen system, is presented for the first time. Dynamic behaviors of system are studied analytically and numerically. Different routes to chaos are shown, and diverse kinds of motions are identified and exhibited by means of bifurcation diagram, portrait phase and the largest Lyapunov exponent. Secondly, an application to digital secure communication based on the novel system is proposed, in which security is enhanced by continually switching different orders of derivative in an irregular pattern. Furthermore, making full use of the advantage of high-capacity transmission of complex system, the improved digital secure communication scheme is achieved based on hybrid synchronization in coupled fractional-order complex Chen system, that means anti-synchronization in real part of state variables and projective synchronization in imaginary part, respectively. The corresponding numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed schemes.
CA-PRI, A CELLULAR AUTOMATA PHENOMENOLOGICAL RESEARCH INVESTIGATION: SIMULATION RESULTS
Authors: IANNONE G. , TROISI A.
Published: February 2013

Following the introduction of a phenomenological cellular automata (CA) model capable to reproduce city growth and urban sprawl, we develop a toy model simulation considering a realistic framework. The main characteristic of our approach is an evolution algorithm based on inhabitants preferences. The control of grown cells is obtained by means of suitable functions which depend on the initial condition of the simulation. New born urban settlements are achieved by means of a logistic evolution of the urban pattern while urban sprawl is controlled by means of the population evolution function. In order to compare model results with a realistic urban framework we have considered, as the area of study, the island of Capri (Italy) in the Mediterranean Sea. Two different phases of the urban evolution on the island have been taken into account: a new born initial growth as induced by geographic suitability and the simulation of urban spread after 1943 induced by the population evolution after this date.
SPIN SQUEEZING AND ENTANGLEMENT VIA FINITE-DIMENSIONAL DISCRETE PHASE-SPACE DESCRIPTION
Authors: MARCHIOLLI MARCELO A. , GALETTI DIÓGENES , DEBARBA TIAGO
Published: February 2013

We show how mapping techniques inherent to N2-dimensional discrete phase spaces can be used to treat a wide family of spin systems which exhibits squeezing and entanglement effects. This algebraic framework is then applied to the modified Lipkin–Meshkov–Glick (LMG) model in order to obtain the time evolution of certain special parameters related to the Robertson–Schrödinger (RS) uncertainty principle and some particular proposals of entanglement measure based on collective angular-momentum generators. Our results reinforce the connection between both the squeezing and entanglement effects, as well as allow to investigate the basic role of spin correlations through the discrete representatives of quasiprobability distribution functions. Entropy functionals are also discussed in this context. The main sequence correlations ↦ entanglement ↦ squeezing of quantum effects embraces a new set of insights and interpretations in this framework, which represents an effective gain for future researches in different spin systems.
NUMERICAL SIMULATIONS FOR SPACE–TIME FRACTIONAL DIFFUSION EQUATIONS
Authors: LING LEEVAN , YAMAMOTO MASAHIRO
Published: February 2013

We consider the solutions of a space–time fractional diffusion equation on the interval [-1, 1]. The equation is obtained from the standard diffusion equation by replacing the second-order space derivative by a Riemann–Liouville fractional derivative of order between one and two, and the first-order time derivative by a Caputo fractional derivative of order between zero and one. As the fundamental solution of this fractional equation is unknown (if exists), an eigenfunction approach is applied to obtain approximate fundamental solutions which are then used to solve the space–time fractional diffusion equation with initial and boundary values. Numerical results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in long time simulations.
GRADED LAGRANGIAN FORMALISM
Authors: SARDANASHVILY G.
Published: February 2013

Graded Lagrangian formalism in terms of a Grassmann-graded variational bicomplex on graded manifolds is developed in a very general setting. This formalism provides the comprehensive description of reducible degenerate Lagrangian systems, characterized by hierarchies of non-trivial higher-order Noether identities and gauge symmetries. This is a general case of classical field theory and Lagrangian non-relativistic mechanics.
FRICTION BRAKING PERFORMANCE OF NANOFILLED HYBRID FIBER REINFORCED PHENOLIC COMPOSITES: INFLUENCE OF NANOCLAY AND CARBON NANOTUBES
Authors: SINGH TEJ , PATNAIK AMAR , SATAPATHY BHABANI K.
Published: February 2013

Graphite lubricated phenolic-based friction composites filled with nanoclay and Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and reinforced with lapinus and Kevlar fibers have been successfully fabricated for evaluation of their physical, chemical, mechanical and tribological properties, respectively. The increase in nanoclay and MWCNT contents led to the increase in bulk physical properties such as void contents, ash contents, water absorption and compressibility. The impact, tensile and flexural strengths get affected deleteriously when complemented by lapinus and kevlar fibers in the composites. However, with the increase in nanoclay and MWCNT contents the μ-performance, friction fade resistance and friction recovery enhanced whereas, friction fluctuations, stability and variability coefficients have been observed to be dependent on the composition. The addition of nanoclay and MWCNT raises the disc temperature whereas wear resistance of the friction composites increases with the decreasing in nanoclay and MWCNT contents. Comprehensively, it is found that with the higher nanoclay: MWCNT ratio (i. e., 1.375:1.375 wt.%) overall frictional response (μp = 0.386) is enhanced, showed lowest fading (fade = 22.80%) and excellent recovery performance (recovery = 130.37%). Finally, the wear surface morphology studies have been done by using scanning electron microscope (SEM) to analyze the wear mechanisms qualitatively by understanding nature of the friction contact patches.
Dielectric and varistor properties of rare-earth-doped ZnO and CaCu3Ti4O12 composite ceramics
Authors: Lu Huafei , Lin Yuanhua , Yuan Jiancong , Nan Cewen , Chen Kexin
Published: February 2013

To investigate the multi-functional ceramics with both high permittivity and large nonlinear coefficient, we have prepared rare-earth Tb -and- Co doped ZnO and TiO 2-rich CaCu3Ti4O12 (TCCTO) powders by chemical co-precipitation and sol–gel methods respectively, and then obtained the TCCTO/ ZnO composite ceramics, sintered at 1100°C for 3 h in air. Analyzing the composite ceramics of the microstructure and phase composition indicated that the composite ceramics were composed of the main phases of ZnO and CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO). Our results revealed that the TCCTO/ ZnO composite ceramics showed both high dielectric and good nonlinear electrical behaviors. The composite ceramic of TCCTO: ZnO = 0.3 exhibited a high dielectric constant of ~210(1 kHz) with a nonlinear coefficient of ~11. The dielectric behavior of TCCTO/ ZnO composite could be explained by the mixture rule. With the high dielectric permittivity and tunable varistor behaviors, the composite ceramics has a potential application for the higher voltage transportation devices.
Cats: A Gold Mine for Ophthalmology
Authors: Narfström Kristina , Deckman Koren Holland , Menotti-Raymond Marilyn
Published: February 2013

Over 200 hereditary diseases have been identified and reported in the cat, several of which affect the eye, with homology to human hereditary disease. Compared with traditional murine models, the cat demonstrates more features in common with humans, including many anatomic and physiologic similarities, longer life span, increased size, and a genetically more heterogeneous background. The development of genomic resources in the cat has facilitated mapping and further characterization of feline models. During recent years, the wealth of knowledge in feline ophthalmology and neurophysiology has been extended to include new diseases of significant interest for comparative ophthalmology. This makes the cat an extremely valuable animal species to utilize for further research into disease processes affecting both cats and humans. This is especially true in the advancement and study of new treatment regimens and for extended therapeutic trials. Groups of feline eye diseases reviewed in the following are lysosomal storage disorders, congenital glaucoma, and neuroretinal degenerations. Each has important implications for human ophthalmic research.
Bilateral Mesiodens in Monozygotic Twins: 3D Diagnostic and Management
Authors: Vecchione Gurgel Carla , Soares Cota Ana Lídia , Yuriko Kobayashi Tatiana , Moura Bonifácio Silva Salete , Aparecida Andrade Moreira Machado Maria , Rios Daniela , Garib Daniela Gamba , Marchini Oliveira Thais
Published: February 2013

Mesiodens is the most frequent type of supernumerary tooth and may occur in several forms, causing different local disorders, such as impaction of the anterior permanent teeth. High-resolution three-dimensional (3D) images have improved the diagnosis and treatment plan of patients with impacted and supernumerary teeth. The purpose of this paper was to report a case of two mesiodens in monozygotic twin boys with appropriate 3D diagnostic and treatment plan.
A Fall Protection System for High-Rise Construction
Authors: Çeçen Haluk , Sertyeşilışık Begüm
Published: February 2013

In construction industry, the number of fatal and nonfatal occupational injuries is higher than other industries. Among causes of these accidents, “falls” play a key role. This situation reveals the importance for carrying out research in fall protection systems. In this paper, a practical, economical, and functional fall protection system is introduced. Following determination and evaluation of existing solutions, weekly brainstorming meetings were held among the responsible project staff (general coordinator, project coordinator, project manager, site manager, and health and safety manager). As a result of these meetings, design criteria were developed. Based on these criteria, the fall protection system for high-rise construction (FPSFHC) was developed which satisfied all the specified design criteria. Required materials were procured from local dealers. In this paper, criteria used in design and details of the final design are presented. Field performance of the system is evaluated, and recommendations for further development and standardization of the system are added.
Role of Vitamin D in Cardiometabolic Diseases
Authors: Wang Chaoxun
Published: February 2013

Vitamin D deficiency is a highly prevalent condition. Low vitamin D levels have long been associated with bone diseases, such as rickets in children and osteomalacia and osteoporosis in adults. However, it has become apparent in recent years that adequate vitamin D levels are also important for optimal functioning of many organs and tissues throughout the body, including the cardiovascular system. Evolving data indicate that vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Studies have shown that low vitamin D levels are associated with hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, left ventricular hypertrophy, and chronic vascular inflammation, all of which are risk factors for CVD. This paper reviews the definition and pathophysiology of vitamin D deficiency, clinical evidence linking vitamin D and CVD risk, diabetes and its complications, and metabolic syndrome.
The Effect of Family Factors on Intense Alcohol Use among European Adolescents: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Kask Kristjan , Markina Anna , Podana Zuzana
Published: February 2013

In Europe use of alcohol by adolescents is a large and increasing problem. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of family factors such as structure, social control, affluence, and negative life events on adolescents' risky alcohol use. Data on alcohol use and family factors were obtained from the International Self-Report Delinquency Study (ISRD-2). Using multilevel analysis, it was found that overall, complete family and high social control by parents were lowering the intense alcohol use whereas negative life events in the family and high family affluence were increasing youngsters' intense alcohol use. Differences between regions of Europe were present for all family factors except affluence. Namely, in Northern Europe the impact of family structure and social control on intense alcohol use was stronger than that in other regions (e.g., Western Europe, Mediterranean, and Postsocialist countries). Also, in Northern Europe where the proportion of adolescents who have not experienced negative life events is the highest, the impact of negative life events on intense alcohol use was stronger; that is, negative life events increased the alcohol use. We conclude that family plays a significant role in adolescents' risky alcohol use.
Coordinating Contracts for Two-Stage Fashion Supply Chain with Risk-Averse Retailer and Price-Dependent Demand
Authors: Xu Minli , Wang Qiao , Ouyang Linhan
Published: February 2013

When the demand is sensitive to retail price, revenue sharing contract and two-part tariff contract have been shown to be able to coordinate supply chains with risk neutral agents. We extend the previous studies to consider a risk-averse retailer in a two-echelon fashion supply chain. Based on the classic mean-variance approach in finance, the issue of channel coordination in a fashion supply chain with risk-averse retailer and price-dependent demand is investigated. We propose both single contracts and joint contracts to achieve supply chain coordination. We find that the coordinating revenue sharing contract and two-part tariff contract in the supply chain with risk neutral agents are still useful to coordinate the supply chain taking into account the degree of risk aversion of fashion retailer, whereas a more complex sales rebate and penalty (SRP) contract fails to do so. When using combined contracts to coordinate the supply chain, we demonstrate that only revenue sharing with two-part tariff contract can coordinate the fashion supply chain. The optimal conditions for contract parameters to achieve channel coordination are determined. Numerical analysis is presented to supplement the results and more insights are gained.
Investigation of the Protective Effects of Phlorizin on Diabetic Cardiomyopathy indb/dbMice by Quantitative Proteomics
Authors: Cai Qian , Li Baoying , Yu Fei , Lu Weida , Zhang Zhen , Yin Mei , Gao Haiqing
Published: February 2013

Patients with diabetes often develop hypertension and atherosclerosis leading to cardiovascular disease. However, some diabetic patients develop heart failure without hypertension and coronary artery disease, a process termed diabetic cardiomyopathy. Phlorizin has been reported to be effective as an antioxidant in treating diabetes mellitus, but little is known about its cardioprotective effects on diabetic cardiomyopathy. In this study, we investigated the role of phlorizin in preventing diabetic cardiomyopathy indb/dbmice. We found that phlorizin significantly decreased body weight gain and the levels of serum fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Morphologic observations showed that normal myocardial structure was better preserved after phlorizin treatment. Using isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) proteomics, we identified differentially expressed proteins involved in cardiac lipid metabolism, mitochondrial function, and cardiomyopathy, suggesting that phlorizin may prevent the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy by regulating the expression of key proteins in these processes. We used ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) to generate an interaction network to map the pathways containing these proteins. Our findings provide important information about the mechanism of diabetic cardiomyopathy and also suggest that phlorizin may be a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy.
The Effect of Simvastatin on Glucose Homeostasis in Streptozotocin Induced Type 2 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Wang Lulu , Duan Guanglan , Lu Yong , Pang Shuguang , Huang Xianping , Jiang Qiang , Dang Ningning
Published: February 2013

Objective. To investigate the effect of simvastatin on glucose homeostasis in streptozotocin induced type 2 diabetic rats.Methods. Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. Normal control rats were fed with standard diet, others were fed with high-fat diet. Diabetic rats were induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ. The simvastatin intervention rats were fed with simvastatin during the experiment process, and the simvastatin treatment rats were fed with simvastatin after diabetes rats were induced. We measured body weight, fasting plasma glucose, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride after an overnight fast.Results. The FPG was higher in diabetic rats when compared to normal control ones; the simvastatin intervention rats had a higher FPG compared to the diabetic rats and were more easily be induced to diabetes at the end of 4 weeks, FPG level of simvastatin treatment rats was increased compared with diabetic model rats after 12 weeks.Conclusion. These data indicate that simvastatin intervention rats may cause hyperglycemia by impairing the function of isletβcells and have an adverse effect on glucose homeostasis, especially on FPG level.
On the Divergenceless Property of the Magnetic Induction Field
Authors: Severini Sergio , Settimi Alessandro
Published: February 2013

Maxwell's equations beautifully describe the electromagnetic fields properties. In what follows we will be interested in giving a new perspective to divergence-free Maxwell’s equations regarding the magnetic induction field: ∇·B→(r→,t)=0. To this end we will consider some physical aspects of a system consisting of massive nonrelativistic charged particles, as sources of an electromagnetic field (e.m.) propagating in free space. In particular the link between conservation of total momentum and divergence-free condition for the magnetic induction B→ field will be deeply investigated. This study presents a new context in which the necessary condition for the divergence-free property of the magnetic induction field in the whole space, known as solenoidality condition, directly comes from the conservation of total momentum for the system, that is, sources and field. This work, in general, leads to results that leave some open questions on the existence, or at least the observability, of magnetic monopoles, theoretically plausible only under suitable symmetry assumptions as we will show.
Antrodia camphorataGrown on Germinated Brown Rice Suppresses Melanoma Cell Proliferation by Inducing Apoptosis and Cell Differentiation and Tumor Growth
Authors: Song Minjung , Park Dong Ki , Park Hye-Jin
Published: February 2013

Antrodia camphoratagrown on germinated brown rice (CBR) was prepared to suppress melanoma development. CBR extracts were divided into hexane, EtOAc, BuOH, and water fractions. Among all the fractions, EtOAc fraction showed the best suppressive effect on B16F10 melanoma cell proliferation by CCK-8 assay. It also showed the increased cell death and the changed cellular morphology after CBR treatment. Annexin V-FITC/PI, flow cytometry, and western blotting were performed to elucidate anticancer activity of CBR. The results showed that CBR induced p53-mediated apoptotic cell death of B16F10. CBR EtOAc treatment increased melanin content and melanogenesis-related proteins of MITF and TRP-1 expressions, which supports its anticancer activity. Its potential as an anticancer agent was further investigated in tumor-xenografted mouse model. In melanoma-xenografted mouse model, melanoma tumor growth was significantly suppressed under CBR EtOAc fraction treatment. HPLC analysis of CBR extract showed peak of adenosine. In conclusion, CBR extracts notably inhibited B16F10 melanoma cell proliferation through the p53-mediated apoptosis induction and increased melanogenesis. These findings suggest that CBR EtOAc fraction can act as an effective anticancer agent to treat melanoma.
Palmitoylethanolamide Is a Disease-Modifying Agent in Peripheral Neuropathy: Pain Relief and Neuroprotection Share a PPAR-Alpha-Mediated Mechanism
Authors: Di Cesare Mannelli L. , D'Agostino G. , Pacini A. , Russo R. , Zanardelli M. , Ghelardini C. , Calignano A.
Published: February 2013

Neuropathic syndromes which are evoked by lesions to the peripheral or central nervous system are extremely difficult to treat, and available drugs rarely joint an antihyperalgesic with a neurorestorative effect.N-Palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) exerts antinociceptive effects in several animal models and inhibits peripheral inflammation in rodents. Aimed to evaluate the antineuropathic properties of PEA, a damage of the sciatic nerve was induced in mice by chronic constriction injury (CCI) and a subcutaneous daily treatment with 30 mg kg−1PEA was performed. On the day 14, PEA prevented pain threshold alterations. Histological studies highlighted that CCI induced oedema and an important infiltrate of CD86 positive cells in the sciatic nerve. Moreover, osmicated preparations revealed a decrease in axon diameter and myelin thickness. Repeated treatments with PEA reduced the presence of oedema and macrophage infiltrate, and a significant higher myelin sheath, axonal diameter, and a number of fibers were observable. In PPAR-αnull mice PEA treatment failed to induce pain relief as well as to rescue the peripheral nerve from inflammation and structural derangement. These results strongly suggest that PEA, via a PPAR-α-mediated mechanism, can directly intervene in the nervous tissue alterations responsible for pain, starting to prevent macrophage infiltration.
Perforating Disseminated Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum
Authors: Lozanova Paula , Dourmishev Lyubomir , Vassileva Snejina , Miteva Ljubka , Balabanova Maria
Published: February 2013

Perforating necrobiosis lipoidica is a very rare clinical variant which consists of degeneration and transepidermal elimination of the collagen with few cases reported in the literature. In two-thirds of the patients it associates with diabetes, with no relation with the glucose control. We present a 42-year-old female patient with a 7-year history of diabetes on insulin therapy, referred to our clinic with a 3-year history of multiple asymptomatic firm plaques disseminated on the upper and lower extremities. The clinical and histological findings proved the diagnosis of perforating necrobiosis lipoidica.