bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hadronic equation of state and speed of sound in thermal and dense medium
Authors: Nasser Tawfik Abdel , Magdy Hend
Published: October 2014

The equation of state p(ϵ) and speed of sound squared [Formula: see text] are studied in grand canonical ensemble of all hadron resonances having masses ≤2 GeV . This large ensemble is divided into strange and non-strange hadron resonances and furthermore to pionic, bosonic and fermionic sectors. It is found that the pions represent the main contributors to [Formula: see text] and other thermodynamic quantities including the equation of state p(ϵ) at low temperatures. At high temperatures, the main contributions are added in by the massive hadron resonances. The speed of sound squared can be calculated from the derivative of pressure with respect to the energy density, ∂p/∂ϵ, or from the entropy-specific heat ratio, s/cv. It is concluded that the physics of these two expressions is not necessarily identical. They are distinguishable below and above the critical temperature Tc. This behavior is observed at vanishing and finite chemical potential. At high temperatures, both expressions get very close to each other and both of them approach the asymptotic value, 1/3. In the hadron resonance gas (HRG) results, which are only valid below Tc, the difference decreases with increasing the temperature and almost vanishes near Tc. It is concluded that the HRG model can very well reproduce the results of the lattice quantum chromodynamics (QCD) of ∂p/∂ϵ and s/cv, especially at finite chemical potential. In light of this, energy fluctuations and other collective phenomena associated with the specific heat might be present in the HRG model. At fixed temperatures, it is found that [Formula: see text] is not sensitive to the chemical potential.
The 500 simplest hyperbolic knots
Authors: Champanerkar Abhijit , Kofman Ilya , Mullen Timothy
Published: October 2014

We identify all hyperbolic knots whose complements are in the census of orientable one-cusped hyperbolic manifolds with eight ideal tetrahedra. We also compute their Jones polynomials.
ELECTRODEPOSITION OF CuZn ALLOYS FROM THE NON-CYANIDE ALKALINE BATHS
Authors: LI MINGGANG , WEI GUOYING , HU SHUANGSHUANG , XU SHUHAN , YANG YEJIONG , MIAO QINFANG
Published: October 2014

Effect of copper sulfate on CuZn alloys electroplating from non-cyanide baths are investigated by different electrochemical methods. Cyclic voltammetry and current transient measurements are used to characterize the CuZn alloys electroplating system in order to analyze the nucleation and growth mechanism. The reduction of Cu and CuZn alloy on sheet iron substrates shows an instantaneous nucleation process. However, the reduction of Zn on sheet iron substrates shows a progressive nucleation process. The structure and surface morphology of CuZn alloys are analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The morphology of CuZn alloys obtained with 50 g L-1 copper sulfate presents a smooth and compact deposit and the size of crystal particle is uniform.
Controlling a Shape Memory Alloy Two-Bar Truss Using Delayed Feedback Method
Authors: de Paula Aline S. , dos Santos Marcel V. S. , Savi Marcelo A. , Bessa Wallace M.
Published: October 2014

This work discusses the use of chaos control in smart structures. An archetypal model of a shape memory alloy (SMA) two-bar truss is treated. This system exhibits both constitutive and geometrical nonlinearities presenting a complex nonlinear dynamics response including either the snap-through or the chaotic behaviors. A constitutive model that presents a close agreement with experimental data is employed to describe the themomechanical SMA behavior. A variation of the continuous time-delayed feedback method is employed as a control strategy. This variable structure controller is applied to the stabilization of unstable periodic orbits of the SMA structure avoiding the snap-through behavior.
Axial Buckling and Dynamic Stability of Functionally Graded Microshells Based on the Modified Couple Stress Theory
Authors: Gholami Raheb , Ansari Reza , Darvizeh Abolfazl , Sahmani Saeed
Published: October 2014

A nonclassical first-order shear deformation shell model is developed to analyze the axial buckling and dynamic stability of microshells made of functionally graded materials (FGMs). For this purpose, the modified couple stress elasticity theory is implemented into the first-order shear deformation shell theory. Unlike the classical shell theory, the newly developed shell model contains an internal material length scale parameter to capture efficiently the size effect. By using the Hamilton's principle, the higher-order governing equations and boundary conditions are derived. Afterward, the Navier solution is utilized to predict the critical axial buckling loads of simply-supported functionally graded (FG) microshells. Moreover, the governing equations are written in the form of Mathieu–Hill equations and then Bolotin's method is employed to determine the instability regions. A parametric study is conducted to investigate the influences of static load factor, axial wave number, dimensionless length scale parameter, material property gradient index, length-to-radius and length-to-thickness aspect ratios on the axial buckling and dynamic stability responses of FGM microshells. It is revealed that size effect plays an important role in the value of critical axial buckling load and instability region of FGM microshells especially corresponding to those with lower aspect ratios.
MEDICAL IMAGE-BASED HEMODYNAMIC ANALYSIS FOR MODIFIED BLALOCK–TAUSSIG SHUNT
Authors: LIU JINLONG , SUN QI , HONG HAIFA , SUN YANJUN , LIU JINFEN , QIAN YI , WANG QIAN , UMEZU MITSUO
Published: October 2014

Modified Blalock–Taussig (mB–T) shunt is an effective palliative surgical method in the treatment of cyanotic congenital heart diseases. Although the surgical technique has improved over the years, it is still a challenge to control appropriate blood flow through the conduit. The formation of thrombosis in the conduit after the mB–T shunt may lead to severe desaturation or reoperation in some cases. Here, we applied the method of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to study a patient-specific case based on medical images after the mB–T shunt. The real-time velocities derived from echocardiography and the pulsatile pressure waves measured during the operation were utilized as boundary conditions to physiologically capture the blood flow information in simulation. The calculated results were coincident with clinical measurements. Local pressure, blood flow distribution, streamlines, wall shear stress (WSS) and centrifugal force in the bended conduit were investigated. The results indicate that pressure decreases greatly through the conduit. The combined action of pulsatile pressure and WSS may lead to the damage of blood cells. The computational hemodynamics can be applied in future studies of establishing quantitative standards to evaluate surgical outcomes of the mB–T shunt.
The Welfare Implications of Health Capital Investment
Authors: Holland Sara B.
Published: October 2014

I present a model of the health capital investment decision of a firm using a moral hazard framework. Health capital investment increases the probability that a worker is present and productive. The firm cannot verify a worker's health capital investment decision. When a firm invests in health capital, the investment is verifiable because the firm contracts with the insurer. I derive the optimal contract for when the worker and for when the firm invests in health capital. When the firm invests in health capital, the level of investment is higher and wages are less volatile. In my model, firms invest more than workers because of a production externality and because it is less costly to invest in health capital than to compensate the worker for bearing the risk of an uncertain labor realization. This result improves welfare, contrary to the benchmark that workers consume more health care than is efficient ex post when firms provide health insurance. Unlike the benchmark model of a worker and insurer, my model includes a profit maximizing firm, includes an endogenous probability of getting sick, and allows the insurer to set premiums by anticipating the health care investment level of the insured.
Why Do IPO Offer Prices Only Partially Adjust?
Authors: İnce Özgür Ş.
Published: October 2014

This study develops a structural model of the initial public offering (IPO) pricing process that enables the estimation of adjustment rates for public and private pricing information gathered during bookbuilding. The estimated upward adjustment rate of public information is only 21%, significantly less than the 28% rate of private information. Adjustment rates decline towards the IPO date, especially for upward adjustments. The findings contradict information acquisition theories that predict a complete adjustment to public information and highlight the inefficiency of the IPO bookbuilding mechanism in handling new information even when information is publicly available and especially when it is favorable.
Type I cell ROS kinetics under hypoxia in the intact mouse carotid body ex vivo: a FRET-based study
Authors: Bernardini A. , Brockmeier U. , Metzen E. , Berchner-Pfannschmidt U. , Harde E. , Acker-Palmer A. , Papkovsky D. , Acker H. , Fandrey J.
Published: October 2014

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) mainly originating from NADPH oxidases have been shown to be involved in the carotid body (CB) oxygen-sensing cascade. For measuring ROS kinetics, type I cells of the mouse CB in an ex vivo preparation were transfected with the ROS sensor construct FRET-HSP33. After 2 days of tissue culture, type I cells expressed FRET-HSP33 as shown by immunohistochemistry. In one population of CBs, 5 min of hypoxia induced a significant and reversible decrease of type I cell ROS levels ( n = 9 CBs; P < 0.015), which could be inhibited by 4-(2-aminoethyl)benzensulfonylfluorid (AEBSF), a highly specific inhibitor of the NADPH oxidase subunits p47phox and p67phox. In another population of CBs, however, 5 min of hypoxia induced a significant and reversible increase of ROS levels in type I cells ( n = 8 CBs; P < 0.05), which was slightly enhanced by administration of 3 mM AEBSF. These different ROS kinetics seemed to coincide with different mice breeding conditions. Type I cells of both populations showed a typical hypoxia-induced membrane potential (MP) depolarization, which could be inhibited by 3 mM AEBSF. ROS and MP closely followed the hypoxic decrease in CB tissue oxygen as measured with an O2-sensitive dye. We conclude that attenuated p47phox subunit activity of the NADPH oxidase under hypoxia is the physiological trigger for type I cell MP depolarization probably due to ROS decrease, whereas the observed ROS increase has no influence on type I cell MP kinetics under hypoxia.
Adiponectin expression in the porcine pituitary during the estrous cycle and its effect on LH and FSH secretion
Authors: Kiezun Marta , Smolinska Nina , Maleszka Anna , Dobrzyn Kamil , Szeszko Karol , Kaminski Tadeusz
Published: October 2014

Female reproductive success is closely associated with nutritional status and energy balance. In this context, adiponectin appears to be a key hormone connecting reproductive system function and metabolism regulation. It is hypothesized that adiponectin expression in the pituitary depends on the phase of the estrous cycle. The effect of adiponectin on luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion is also postulated. Changes in the adiponectin gene and protein expression in the porcine anterior (AP) and posterior (NP) pituitaries as well as the effect of in vitro administration of adiponectin on basal and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)- and/or insulin-stimulated LH and FSH secretion were investigated on days 2–3, 10–12, 14–16, and 17–19 of the estrous cycle. Adiponectin gene was more pronounced on days 2–3 in AP but on days 10–12 in NP. Protein concentration in AP was the highest on days 10–12 and in NP on days 10–12 and 17–19 of the cycle. In vitro, adiponectin did not affect basal LH secretion but increased FSH release by AP cells. Adiponectin administration affected GnRH- and/or insulin-induced LH and FSH output in a manner dependent on the phase of the estrous cycle. In this study we indicated for the first time adiponectin expression in the porcine AP and NP that was dependent on the phase of the estrous cycle. In vitro studies indicated that adiponectin may affect gonadotropin secretion. The above suggests that the studied adipokine may influence female reproductive functions via its effect on LH and FSH secretion by gonadotrophs, but the cellular mechanism of its action remains unknown.
Combination of ACE inhibitor with nicorandil provides further protection in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Shiraishi Takeshi , Tamura Yoshifuru , Taniguchi Kei , Higaki Masato , Ueda Shuko , Shima Tomoko , Nagura Michito , Nakagawa Takahiko , Johnson Richard J. , Uchida Shunya
Published: October 2014

An inhibition in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is one of the most widely used therapies to treat chronic kidney disease. However, its effect is occasionally not sufficient and additional treatments may be required. Recently, we reported that nicorandil exhibited renoprotective effects in a mouse model of diabetic nephropathy. Here we examined if nicorandil can provide an additive protection on enalapril in chronic kidney disease. Single treatment with either enalapril or nicorandil significantly ameliorated glomerular and tubulointerstitial injury in the rat remnant kidney while the combination of these two compounds provided additive effects. In addition, an increase in oxidative stress in remnant kidney was also blocked by either enalapril or nicorandil while the combination of the drugs was more potent. A mechanism was likely due for nicorandil to preventing manganase superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and sirtuin (Sirt)3 from being reduced in injured kidneys. A study with cultured podocytes indicated that the antioxidative effect could be mediated through sulfonylurea receptor (SUR) in the mitochondrial KATPchannel since blocking SUR with glibenclamide reduced MnSOD and Sirt3 expression in podocytes. In conclusion, nicorandil may synergize with enalapril to provide superior protection in chronic kidney disease.
Chronic intermittent hypoxia alters neurotransmission from lateral paragigantocellular nucleus to parasympathetic cardiac neurons in the brain stem
Authors: Dergacheva Olga
Published: October 2014

Patients with sleep-related disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), have an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. OSA events are more severe in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. REM sleep further increases the risk of adverse cardiovascular events by diminishing cardioprotective parasympathetic activity. The mechanisms underlying REM sleep-related reduction in parasympathetic activity likely include activation of inhibitory input to cardiac vagal neurons (CVNs) in the brain stem originating from the lateral paragigantocellular nucleus (LPGi), a nucleus that plays a role in REM sleep control. This study tests the hypothesis that chronic intermittent hypoxia and hypercapnia (CIHH), an animal model of OSA, inhibits CVNs because of exaggeration of the GABAergic pathway from the LPGi to CVNs. GABAergic neurotransmission to CVNs evoked by electrical stimulation of the LPGi was examined with whole cell patch-clamp recordings in an in vitro brain slice preparation in rats exposed to CIHH and control rats. GABAergic synaptic events were enhanced after 4-wk CIHH in both male and female rats, to a greater degree in males. Acute hypoxia and hypercapnia (H/H) reversibly diminished the LPGi-evoked GABAergic neurotransmission to CVNs. However, GABAergic synaptic events were enhanced after acute H/H in CIHH male animals. Orexin-A elicited a reversible inhibition of LPGi-evoked GABAergic currents in control animals but evoked no significant changes in CIHH male rats. In conclusion, exaggerated inhibitory neurotransmission from the LPGi to CVNs in CIHH animals would reduce cardioprotective parasympathetic activity and enhance the risk of adverse cardiovascular events.
Zonal variations in K+ currents in vestibular crista calyx terminals
Authors: Meredith Frances L. , Rennie Katherine J.
Published: October 2014

We developed a rodent crista slice to investigate regional variations in electrophysiological properties of vestibular afferent terminals. Thin transverse slices of the gerbil crista ampullaris were made and electrical properties of calyx terminals in central zones (CZ) and peripheral zones (PZ) compared with whole cell patch clamp. Spontaneous action potential firing was observed in 25% of current-clamp recordings and was either regular or irregular in both zones. Firing was abolished when extracellular choline replaced Na+ but persisted when hair cell mechanotransduction channels or calyx AMPA receptors were blocked. This suggests that ion channels intrinsic to the calyx can generate spontaneous firing. In response to depolarizing voltage steps, outward K+ currents were observed at potentials above −60 mV. K+ currents in PZ calyces showed significantly more inactivation than currents in CZ calyces. Underlying K+ channel populations contributing to these differences were investigated. The KCNQ channel blocker XE991 dihydrochloride blocked a slowly activating, sustained outward current in both PZ and CZ calyces, indicating the presence of KCNQ channels. Mean reduction was greatest in PZ calyces. XE991 also reduced action potential firing frequency in CZ and PZ calyces and broadened mean action potential width. The K+ channel blocker 4-aminopyridine (10–50 μM) blocked rapidly activating, moderately inactivating currents that were more prevalent in PZ calyces. α-Dendrotoxin, a selective blocker of KV1 channels, reduced outward currents in CZ calyces but not in PZ calyces. Regional variations in K+ conductances may contribute to different firing responses in calyx afferents.
Retinoic acid affects calcium signaling in adult molluscan neurons
Authors: Vesprini Nicholas D. , Dawson Taylor F. , Yuan Ye , Bruce Doug , Spencer Gaynor E.
Published: October 2014

Retinoic acid, the active metabolite of vitamin A, is important for nervous system development, regeneration, as well as cognitive functions of the adult central nervous system. These central nervous system functions are all highly dependent on neuronal activity. Retinoic acid has previously been shown to induce changes in the firing properties and action potential waveforms of adult molluscan neurons in a dose- and isomer-dependent manner. In this study, we aimed to determine the cellular pathways by which retinoic acid might exert such effects, by testing the involvement of pathways previously shown to be affected by retinoic acid. We demonstrated that the ability of all- trans retinoic acid (atRA) to induce electrophysiological changes in cultured molluscan neurons was not prevented by inhibitors of protein synthesis, protein kinase A or phospholipase C. However, we showed that atRA was capable of rapidly reducing intracellular calcium levels in the same dose- and isomer-dependent manner as shown previously for changes in neuronal firing. Moreover, we also demonstrated that the transmembrane ion flux through voltage-gated calcium channels was rapidly modulated by retinoic acid. In particular, the peak current density was reduced and the inactivation rate was increased in the presence of atRA, over a similar time course as the changes in cell firing and reductions in intracellular calcium. These studies provide further evidence for the ability of atRA to induce rapid effects in mature neurons.
Some Fixed Point Theorems in Generalized Probabilistic Metric Spaces
Authors: Zhu Chuanxi , Xu Wenqing , Wu Zhaoqi
Published: October 2014

We introduce the concepts of(H,ψ,Φ)-contraction and probabilistic(α,φ)-contraction mappings in generalized probabilistic metric spaces and prove some fixed point theorems for such two types of mappings in generalized probabilistic metric spaces. Our results generalize and extend many comparable results in existing literature. Some examples are also given to support our results. Finally, an application to the existence of solutions for a class of integral equations is presented by utilizing one of our main results.
Isolation and Bioactivity Analysis of Ethyl Acetate Extract fromAcer tegmentosumUsing In Vitro Assay and On-Line Screening HPLC-ABTS+System
Authors: Lee Kwang Jin , Song Na-Young , Oh You Chang , Cho Won-Kyung , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: October 2014

TheAcer tegmentosum(3 kg) was extracted using hot water, and the freeze-dried extract powder was partitioned successively using dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EA), butyl alcohol (n-BuOH), and water. From the EA extract fraction (1.24 g), five phenolic compounds were isolated by the silica gel, octadecyl silica gel, and Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography. Based on spectroscopic methods such as1H-NMR,13C-NMR, and LC/MS the chemical structures of the compounds were confirmed as feniculin (1), avicularin (2), (+)-catechin (3), (−)-epicatechin (4), and 6′-O-galloyl salidroside (5). Moreover, a rapid on-line screening HPLC-ABTS+system for individual bioactivity of the EA-soluble fraction (five phenolic compounds) was developed. The results indicated that compounds1and2were first isolated from theA. tegmentosum. The anti-inflammatory activities and on-line screening HPLC-ABTS+assay method of these compounds in LPS-stimulated murine macrophages were rapid and efficient for the investigation of bioactivity ofA. tegmentosum.
Malignant Trigeminal Nerve Sheath Tumor and Anaplastic Astrocytoma Collision Tumor with High Proliferative Activity and Tumor SuppressorP53 Expression
Authors: Kurdi Maher , Al-Ardati Hosam , Baeesa Saleh S.
Published: October 2014

Background. The synchronous development of two primary brain tumors of distinct cell of origin in close proximity or in contact with each other is extremely rare. We present the first case of collision tumor with two histological distinct tumors.Case Presentation. A 54-year-old woman presented with progressive atypical left facial pain and numbness for 8 months. MRI of the brain showed left middle cranial fossa heterogeneous mass extending into the infratemporal fossa. At surgery, a distinct but intermingled intra- and extradural tumor was demonstrated which was completely removed through left orbitozygomatic-temporal craniotomy. Histopathological examination showed that the tumor had two distinct components: malignant nerve sheath tumor of the trigeminal nerve and temporal lobe anaplastic astrocytoma. Proliferative activity and expressed tumor protein 53 (TP53) gene mutations were demonstrated in both tumors.Conclusions. We describe the first case of malignant trigeminal nerve sheath tumor (MTNST) and anaplastic astrocytoma in collision and discuss the possible hypothesis of this rare occurrence. We propose that MTNST, with TP53 mutation, have participated in the formation of anaplastic astrocytoma, or vice versa.
Further Results on Uniqueness of Meromorphic Functions concerning Fixed Points
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Bin
Published: October 2014

We will study the uniqueness problems of meromorphic functions of differential polynomials sharing fixed points. Our results improve or generalize some previous results on meromorphic functions sharing fixed points.
Geospatial Relationships between Awareness and Utilization of Community Exercise Resources and Physical Activity Levels in Older Adults
Authors: Dondzila Christopher J. , Swartz Ann M. , Keenan Kevin G. , Harley Amy E. , Azen Razia , Strath Scott J.
Published: October 2014

Introduction. It is unclear if community-based fitness resources (CBFR) translate to heightened activity levels within neighboring areas. The purpose of this study was to determine whether awareness and utilization of fitness resources and physical activity differed depending on residential distance from CBFR.Methods. Four hundred and seventeen older adults (72.9±7.7years) were randomly recruited from three spatial tiers (≤1.6, >1.6 to ≤3.2, and >3.2 to 8.0 km) surrounding seven senior centers, which housed CBFR. Participants completed questionnaires on health history, CBFR, and physical activity, gathering data on CBFR awareness, utilization, and barriers, overall levels, and predictors to engagement in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA).Results. Across spatial tiers, there were no differences in positive awareness rates of CBFR or CBFR utilization. Engagement in MVPA differed across spatial tiersP<0.001, with the >3.2 to 8.0 km radius having the highest mean energy expenditure. Across all sites, age and income levelP<0.05were significant predictors of low and high amounts of MVPA, respectively, and current health status and lack of interest represented barriers to CBFR utilizationP<0.05.Conclusion. Closer proximity to CBFR did not impact awareness or utilization rates and had an inverse relationship with physical activity.
Improving Nuclear Safety of Fast Reactors by Slowing Down Fission Chain Reaction
Authors: Kulikov G. G. , Shmelev A. N. , Apse V. A.
Published: October 2014

Light materials with small atomic mass (light or heavy water, graphite, and so on) are usually used as a neutron reflector and moderator. The present paper proposes using a new, heavy element as neutron moderator and reflector, namely, “radiogenic lead” with dominant content of isotope 208Pb. Radiogenic lead is a stable natural lead. This isotope is characterized by extremely low micro cross-section of radiative neutron capture (~0.23 mb) for thermal neutrons, which is smaller than graphite and deuterium cross-sections. The reflector-converter for a fast reactor core is the structure capable of transforming some part of prompt neutrons leaked from the core into the reflected neutrons with properties similar to those of delayed neutrons, that is, sufficiently large contribution to reactivity at the level of effective fraction of delayed neutrons and relatively long lifetime, comparable with lifetimes of radionuclides-emitters of delayed neutrons. It is evaluated that the use of radiogenic lead makes it possible to slow down the chain fission reaction on prompt neutrons in the fast reactor. This can improve the fast reactor safety and reduce some requirements to the technologies used to fabricate fuel for the fast reactor.
Retrospective Review on the Use of Topical Cyclosporin A 0.05% for Paediatric Allergic Conjunctivitis in Hong Kong Chinese
Authors: Wu Macy M. S. , Yau Gordon S. K. , Lee Jacky W. Y. , Wong Amy L. , Tam Victor T. Y. , Yuen Can Y. F.
Published: October 2014

Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy of using topical cyclosporin A 0.05% (Restasis) for the treatment of paediatric allergic conjunctivitis.Methods. This retrospective study included consecutive cases of paediatric allergic conjunctivitis treated with Restasis between 2010 and 2013. Subjects with follow-up time less than 3 months after using Restasis were excluded. Itch severity score, symptom score, and sign score were compared before (baseline) and 3 months after using Restasis.Results. In 27 eyes of 14 patients (mean age10.8±3.2years), 44.4% had allergic conjunctivitis, 33.3% had vernal keratoconjunctivitis, and 22.2% had atopic keratoconjunctivitis. The mean duration of ocular symptoms was20.4±13.2months. 92.6% of subjects were using steroid eye drop before Restasis. After 3 months of topical Restasis, there were statistically significant reductions in the symptom, sign, and itch severity scores compared with baseline (allP≤0.001) and 78.6% of subjects were able to be tapered off steroid eye drops.Conclusion. Topical Restasis was effective and safe in significantly reducing ocular itchiness, sign, and symptom scores at 3 months after use in paediatric allergic ocular conditions.
Real-Time RT-PCR for the Detection of Lyssavirus Species
Authors: Deubelbeiss A. , Zahno M.-L. , Zanoni M. , Bruegger D. , Zanoni R.
Published: October 2014

The causative agents of rabies are single-stranded, negative-sense RNA viruses in the genus Lyssavirus of Rhabdoviridae, consisting of twelve classified and three as yet unclassified species including classical rabies virus (RABV). Highly neurotropic RABV causes rapidly progressive encephalomyelitis with nearly invariable fatal outcome. Rapid and reliable diagnosis of rabies is highly relevant for public and veterinary health. Due to growing variety of the genus Lyssavirus observed, the development of suitable molecular assays for diagnosis and differentiation is challenging. This work focused on the establishment of a suitable real-time RT-PCR technique for rabies diagnosis as a complement to fluorescent antibody test and rabies tissue culture infection test as gold standard for diagnosis and confirmation. The real-time RT-PCR was adapted with the goal to detect the whole spectrum of lyssavirus species, for nine of which synthesized DNA fragments were used. For the detection of species, seven probes were developed. Serial dilutions of the rabies virus strain CVS-11 showed a 100-fold higher sensitivity of real-time PCR compared to heminested RT-PCR. Using a panel of thirty-one lyssaviruses representing four species, the suitability of the protocol could be shown. Phylogenetic analysis of the sequences obtained by heminested PCR allowed correct classification of all viruses used.
Elevated OPN, IP-10, and Neutrophilia in Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Confirmed Tuberculosis Patients
Authors: Shiratori Beata , Leano Susan , Nakajima Chie , Chagan-Yasutan Haorile , Niki Toshiro , Ashino Yugo , Suzuki Yasuhiko , Telan Elisabeth , Hattori Toshio
Published: October 2014

Tuberculosis (TB) is the second most common cause of death from infectious diseases and results in high socioeconomic losses to many countries. Proper diagnosis is the first step in TB eradication. To develop a rapid, simple, and accurate diagnostic TB test and to characterize the prevalence ofMycobacterium tuberculosis(MTB) genotypes and immune profiles of TB patients, a total of 37 TB patients and 30 healthy control (HC) from Metro Manila were enrolled. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) reliably detected MTB infection. Manila genotype was identified by spoligotyping method in all TB patients. Osteopontin (OPN), interferon-γ-induced protein 10 kDa (IP-10), and neutrophil counts were found to reflect the acute stage of MTB infection. The sensitivity and specificity were 94.6% and 93.3%, respectively, for both OPN and IP-10, and they were 83.8% and 78.6%, respectively, for neutrophils. The combination of OPN, IP-10, neutrophil count, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, MCP-1, platelets, galectin-9, and leukocyte count correctly identifies all the HC and 96.3% of TB patients. LAMP method may serve as a rapid, supportive method in addition to time-consuming culture methods. OPN, IP-10, and neutrophil counts are useful in detecting MTB infection and may have utility in monitoring the course of the disease.
Proactive Supply Chain Performance Management with Predictive Analytics
Authors: Stefanovic Nenad
Published: October 2014

Today’s business climate requires supply chains to be proactive rather than reactive, which demands a new approach that incorporates data mining predictive analytics. This paper introduces a predictive supply chain performance management model which combines process modelling, performance measurement, data mining models, and web portal technologies into a unique model. It presents the supply chain modelling approach based on the specialized metamodel which allows modelling of any supply chain configuration and at different level of details. The paper also presents the supply chain semantic business intelligence (BI) model which encapsulates data sources and business rules and includes the data warehouse model with specific supply chain dimensions, measures, and KPIs (key performance indicators). Next, the paper describes two generic approaches for designing the KPI predictive data mining models based on the BI semantic model. KPI predictive models were trained and tested with a real-world data set. Finally, a specialized analytical web portal which offers collaborative performance monitoring and decision making is presented. The results show that these models give very accurate KPI projections and provide valuable insights into newly emerging trends, opportunities, and problems. This should lead to more intelligent, predictive, and responsive supply chains capable of adapting to future business environment.
Epidemiology Characteristics of Constipation for General Population, Pediatric Population, and Elderly Population in China
Authors: Chu Huikuan , Zhong Likun , Li Hai , Zhang Xiujing , Zhang Jingzhi , Hou Xiaohua
Published: October 2014

Objective. To acquire more data about the epidemiologic characteristics of constipation in different kinds of populations in China.Methods. Using “constipation” and “China” as search terms; relevant papers were searched from January 1995 to April 2014. Data on prevalence, gender, diagnostic criteria, geographical area, educational class, age, race, and physician visit results were extracted and analyzed.Results. 36 trials were included. Prevalence rates of constipation in elderly population (18.1%) and pediatric population (18.8%) were significantly higher than that in general population (8.2%). Prevalence of constipation defined by non-Rome criteria was higher than that by Rome criteria in general population. Prevalence rates of constipation were different for different geographical area. People with less education were predisposed to constipation. In pediatric population, prevalence of constipation was the lowest in children aged 2–6 years. Prevalence of constipation in ethnic minorities was higher than that in Han people. People with constipation were predisposed to FD, haemorrhoid, and GERD. Only 22.2% patients seek medical advice in general population.Conclusions. In China, prevalence of constipation was lower compared with most of other countries. The factors including female gender, diagnostic criteria, geographical area, age, educational class, and race seemed to have major effects on prevalence of constipation.
Temperature Dependence of the Bragg Peak-Intensity Close to the α-Incommensurate-β Transition in Quartz
Authors: Yurtseven Hamit , Kaymazlar Koray
Published: October 2014

Quartz as a mineral has a stable crystalline phase at room temperature and atmospheric pressure; at low temperatures it is in the α phase and when it is heated up, it transforms into the β phase through the intermediate (incommensurate) phase within the temperature interval of nearly 1.3 K at around 847 K. The order parameter Q occurs due to a tilting of SiO4 tetrahedra around the threefold axis, which can be related to variation of the peak-intensity with the temperature in quartz. In this study, we analyze the temperature dependence of the Bragg peak-intensity measured through the α-β transition in quartz, as obtained from the literature according to a power-law formula. From our analysis, we deduce the values of the critical exponent β for the order parameter (Bragg peak-intensity) for the α-incommensurate (IC-)β transition. Our β values indicate that the β-IC phase transition is of a second order and that the IC-α phase transition is of a weak first order, as also reported in the literature.
Comparison of Two Methods for the Extraction of Fractionated Rice Bran Protein
Authors: Wang Changyuan , Li Dan , Xu Feng , Hao Tianshu , Zhang Min
Published: October 2014

Two different methods for extracting fractionated rice bran protein (FRBP) from defatted rice bran were investigated according to the solubility of protein in different extraction solvents. The yields of the obtained proteins and their purity were first compared. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, differential scanning calorimetry, protein surface hydrophobicity, and protein secondary molecular structure analyses were subsequently applied to identify and compare the compositional, structural, and functional characteristics of the obtained proteins. The highest yield (13.8%, w/w) and purity (45–47%) of FRBP products were obtained using 0.4 M NaCl, 80% ethanol, and 0.01 M NaOH as extraction solvents to fractionate albumin, globulin, prolamin, and glutelin. Several good properties were exhibited, including good functionality, specific denaturation temperature, and enthalpy values, for FRBP products prepared by the above method.
Hybrid Dislocated Control and General Hybrid Projective Dislocated Synchronization for Memristor Chaotic Oscillator System
Authors: Sun Junwei , Huang Chun , Cui Guangzhao
Published: October 2014

Some important dynamical properties of the memristor chaotic oscillator system have been studied in the paper. A novel hybrid dislocated control method and a general hybrid projective dislocated synchronization scheme have been realized for memristor chaotic oscillator system. The paper firstly presents hybrid dislocated control method for stabilizing chaos to the unstable equilibrium point. Based on the Lyapunov stability theorem, general hybrid projective dislocated synchronization has been studied for the drive memristor chaotic oscillator system and the same response memristor chaotic oscillator system. For the different dimensions, the memristor chaotic oscillator system and the other chaotic system have realized general hybrid projective dislocated synchronization. Numerical simulations are given to show the effectiveness of these methods.
Reinforced Ultra‐Tightly Coupled GPS/INS System for Challenging Environment
Authors: Wang Xueyun , Li Kui , Gao Pengyu , Wang Wei
Published: October 2014

Among all integration levels currently available for Global Positioning System (GPS) and Inertial Navigation System (INS) Integrated System, ultra‐tightly coupled (UTC) GPS/INS system is the best choice for accurate and reliable navigation. Nevertheless the performance of UTC GPS/INS system degrades in challenging environments, such as jamming, changing noise of GPS signals, and high dynamic maneuvers. When low‐end Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) based on MEMS sensors are employed, the performance degradation will be more severe. To solve this problem, a reinforced UTC GPS/INS system is proposed. Two techniques are adopted to deal with jamming and high dynamics. Firstly, adaptive integration Kalman filter (IKF) based on fuzzy logics is developed to reinforce the antijamming ability. The parameters of membership functions (MFs) are adjusted and optimized through self‐developed neutral network. Secondly, a Doppler frequency error estimator based on Kalman filter is designed to improve the navigation performance under high dynamics. A complete simulation platform is established to evaluate the reinforced system. Results demonstrate that the proposed system architecture significantly improves navigation performance in challenging environments and it is a more advanced solution to accurate and reliable navigation than traditional UTC GPS/INS system.
On Strongly Irregular Points of a Brouwer Homeomorphism Embeddable in a Flow
Authors: Leśniak Zbigniew
Published: October 2014

We study the set of all strongly irregular points of a Brouwer homeomorphismfwhich is embeddable in a flow. We prove that this set is equal to the first prolongational limit set of any flow containingf. We also give a sufficient condition for a class of flows of Brouwer homeomorphisms to be topologically conjugate.
AstragalusPolysaccharide Suppresses Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity by Regulating the PI3k/Akt and p38MAPK Pathways
Authors: Cao Yuan , Ruan Yang , Shen Tao , Huang Xiuqing , Li Meng , Yu Weiwei , Zhu Yuping , Man Yong , Wang Shu , Li Jian
Published: October 2014

Background. Doxorubicin, a potent chemotherapeutic agent, is associated with acute and chronic cardiotoxicity, which is cumulatively dose-dependent.Astragaluspolysaccharide (APS), the extract ofAstragalus membranaceuswith strong antitumor and antiglomerulonephritis activity, can effectively alleviate inflammation. However, whether APS could ameliorate chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity is not understood. Here, we investigated the protective effects of APS on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and elucidated the underlying mechanisms of the protective effects of APS.Methods. We analyzed myocardial injury in cancer patients who underwent doxorubicin chemotherapy and generated a doxorubicin-induced neonatal rat cardiomyocyte injury model and a mouse heart failure model. Echocardiography, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, TUNEL, DNA laddering, and Western blotting were performed to observe cell survival, oxidative stress, and inflammatory signal pathways in cardiomyocytes.Results. Treatment of patients with the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin led to heart dysfunction. Doxorubicin reduced cardiomyocyte viability and induced C57BL/6J mouse heart failure with concurrent elevated ROS generation and apoptosis, which, however, was attenuated by APS treatment. In addition, there was profound inhibition of p38MAPK and activation of Akt after APS treatment.Conclusions. These results demonstrate that APS could suppress oxidative stress and apoptosis, ameliorating doxorubicin-mediated cardiotoxicity by regulating the PI3k/Akt and p38MAPK pathways.
Space Group Approximation of a Molecular Crystal by Classifying Molecules for Their Electric Potentials and Roughness on Their Inertial Ellipsoid Surface
Authors: Fayos Jose
Published: October 2014

In order to predict the most probable space group where a molecule crystallizes, it is assumed that molecular shape and electric potential distribution on the molecular surface are the main factors or predictors. However, to compare and classify molecules by these two factors seems to be very difficult for in general such different objects. Thus, in order to compare molecules, they are reduced to their inertial ellipsoid in which surface 26 equally spaced points were chosen where a roughness factor and an electric potential due to all atomic charges of the whole molecule are calculated. By this procedure, different molecules encoded by these two predictor vectors can be compared and classified, showing that molecules that crystallize in the same space group have more similar predictor vectors. This result opens the possibility to predict the more probable spatial group associated with a molecule.
The Neuroprotective Effect ofCornus mason Brain Tissue of Wistar Rats
Authors: Francik Renata , Kryczyk Jadwiga , Krośniak Mirosław , Berköz Mehmet , Sanocka Ilona , Francik Sławomir
Published: October 2014

Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas) is a valuable source of phenolic antioxidants. Flavonoid derivatives as nonenzymatic antioxidants are important in the pathophysiology of many diseases including neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease) or heart disease. In this study, we examined the effect of an addition of freeze-dried fruit of cornelian cherry on three types of diets: control diet, fructose diet, and diet enriched in fats (high-fat diet). This effect was studied by determining the following antioxidant parameters in both brain tissue and plasma in rats: catalase, ferric reducing ability of plasma, paraoxonase, protein carbonyl groups, and free thiol groups. Results indicate that both fructose diet and high-fat diet affect the antioxidant capacity of the organism. Furthermore, an addition of cornelian cherry resulted in increased activity of catalase in brain tissue, while in plasma it caused the opposite effect. In turn, with regard to paraoxonase activity in both brain tissue and plasma, it had a stimulating effect. Adding cornelian cherry to the tested diets increased the activity of PON in both tested tissues. Moreover, protective effect of fruits of this plant was observed in the process of oxidation of proteins by decreasing levels of protein carbonyl groups and thiol groups in brain tissue as well as in plasma.
Severe Periodontal Disease Associated with Long-Term Treatment with Intravenous Immunoglobulin
Authors: Corrêa Jôice Dias , Rocha Amanda Leal , Costa Lidiane Cristina Machado , Travassos Denise , Castro Wagner Henriques , Garlet Gustavo Pompermaier , Gomez Rodrigo Santiago , Teixeira Antônio Lúcio , Silva Tarcília Aparecida
Published: October 2014

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is used in the treatment of neuropathy. This case report presents, for the first time, a patient with severe periodontal destruction after chronic therapy with IVIG. The patient reported having extracted his maxillary anterior teeth himself due to high mobility. Clinical examination and radiographic images show a generalized and severe periodontitis. No significant alterations in genetic or microbiological features were observed. The present case suggests that periodontal disease aggravation could be considered a new adverse effect of IVIG therapy. Postulated mechanisms are immune complexes formation, complement activation, and a direct effect in osteoclasts. In conclusion, it is important that patients that will receive IVIG treatment underwent dental evaluation.
Analysis of Selected Amino Acids in Different Varieties of Wheat Available in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Zafar Sumera , Naz Narjis , Nazir Saliha , Abbas Mateen , Khan Abdul Muqeet
Published: October 2014

A validated method is proposed to check amino acids variability among eighty-nine wheat samples collected from Punjab province of Pakistan during 2012-2013. Orthophthalaldehyde along with 2-mercaptoethanol was used as a derivatizing reagent that showed florescence at detection wavelength of Ex of 340 nm and Em of 450 nm under suitable pH range of 9-10. RP-HPLC-FLD system employed was Agilent 1100 series equipped with Eclipse XDB C-18 column (2.1 × 150 mm, 5 µ) and column temperature was maintained at 40°C. The maximum concentration of aspartic acid, glutamic acid, leucine, arginine, and histidine was found in Vehari (0.496 g/100 g), Rajanpur (1.292 g/100 g), Rahim Yar khan (0.60 g/100 g), Bahawalpur (0.662 g/100 g), and Narowal (0.377 g/100 g), respectively, while the minimum in Narowal (0.13 g/100 g), Vehari (0.706 g/100 g), Narowal (0.339 g/100 g), Muzaffargarh (0.14 g/100 g), and Rahim Yar Khan (0.088 g/100 g) among the samples obtained from districts. Wheat variety Pb-11 contained relatively high aspartic acid (0.297 g/100 g), glutamic acid (0.897 g/100 g), and leucine (0.484 g/100 g) whereas variety Ass-11 had arginine (0.895 g/100 g) and histidine (0.266 g/100 g). The amino acids were found to vary as follows: aspartic acid 0.130–0.496, glutamic acid 0.706–1.292, leucine 0.321–0.6, arginine 0.118–0.895, and histidine 0.088–0.377 g/100 g flour. The accuracy was in the range of 95.88–100.67%, whereas the RSD for precision was not more than 1.40 for all amino acids.
Implementation of Special Function Unit for Vertex Shader Processor Using Hybrid Number System
Authors: Agarwal Avni , Harsha P. , Vasishta Swati , Sivanantham S.
Published: October 2014

The world of 3D graphic computing has undergone a revolution in the recent past, making devices more computationally intensive, providing high-end imaging to the user. The OpenGL ES Standard documents the requirements of graphic processing unit. A prime feature of this standard is a special function unit (SFU), which performs all the required mathematical computations on the vertex information corresponding to the image. This paper presents a low-cost, high-performance SFU architecture with improved speed and reduced area. Hybrid number system is employed here in order to reduce the complexity of operations by suitably switching between logarithmic number system (LNS) and binary number system (BNS). In this work, reduction of area and a higher operating frequency are achieved with almost the same power consumption as that of the existing implementations.