bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Process Quality Control Method Based on Coupling Machining Sensor Network
Authors: Zhao Liping , Diao Guangzhou , Yao Yiyong
Published: May 2014

To monitor the dynamic changes of process quality and reduce the quality fluctuation in machining process, a process quality control method based on coupling machining sensor network (CMSN) is proposed to improve product quality. The advantage of CMSN is to combine the complex network with sensor technology. The purpose of this paper is to explore influence of coupling relationships between machining errors on the product quality by analyzing the stability of CMSN. Firstly, the mapping rules between machining process and network elements are provided to construct the topological model of CMSN. Next some performance indices of sensor nodes are defined and calculated to explore the self-organization stability of CMSN so that the appropriate sensor configuration can be selected to ensure the local stability of machining process. On this basis, the whole stability of CMSN is investigated by analyzing the nodes coupling so that the error accumulations are analyzed to improve product quality. Finally, a case study is provided to verify the feasibility of proposed method, in which Monte Carlo simulation is used to produce required quality data. The whole stability of CMSN for blade machining is discussed. It is expected that the proposed method can provide some guidance for machining process.
Nonlocal Quantum Effects in Cosmology
Authors: Dumin Yurii V.
Published: May 2014

Since it is commonly believed that the observed large-scale structure of the universe is an imprint of quantum fluctuations existing at the very early stage of its evolution, it is reasonable to pose the question: do the effects of quantum nonlocality, which are well established now by the laboratory studies, manifest themselves also in the early universe? We try to answer this question by utilizing the results of a few experiments, namely, with the superconducting multi-Josephson-junction loops and the ultracold gases in periodic potentials. Employing a close analogy between the above-mentioned setups and the simplest one-dimensional Friedmann-Robertson-Walker cosmological model, we show that the specific nonlocal correlations revealed in the laboratory studies might be of considerable importance also in treating the strongly nonequilibrium phase transitions of Higgs fields in the early universe. Particularly, they should substantially reduce the number of topological defects (e.g., domain walls) expected due to independent establishment of the new phases in the remote spatial regions. This gives us a hint on resolving a long-standing problem of the excessive concentration of topological defects, inconsistent with observational constraints. The same effect may be also relevant to the recent problem of the anomalous behavior of cosmic microwave background fluctuations at large angular scales.
Influence of Egr-1 in Cardiac Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Response to Glucose Variations
Authors: Bastianelli Daniela , Siciliano Camilla , Puca Rosa , Coccia Andrea , Murdoch Colin , Bordin Antonella , Mangino Giorgio , Pompilio Giulio , Calogero Antonella , De Falco Elena
Published: May 2014

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a promising cell population for cell therapy and regenerative medicine applications. However, how variations in glucose are perceived by MSC pool is still unclear. Since, glucose metabolism is cell type and tissue dependent, this must be considered when MSCs are derived from alternative sources such as the heart. The zinc finger transcription factor Egr-1 is an important early response gene, likely to play a key role in the glucose-induced response. Our aim was to investigate how short-term changes inin vitroglucose concentrations affect multipotent cardiac tissue-derived MSCs (cMSCs) in a mouse model of Egr-1 KO (Egr-1−/−). Results showed that loss of Egr-1 does not significantly influence cMSC proliferation. In contrast, responses to glucose variations were observed in wt but not in Egr-1−/−cMSCs by clonogenic assay. Phenotype analysis by RT-PCR showed that cMSCs Egr-1−/−lost the ability to regulate the glucose transporters GLUT-1 and GLUT-4 and, as expected, the Egr-1 target genes VEGF, TGFβ-1, and p300. Acetylated protein levels of H3 histone were impaired in Egr-1−/−compared to wt cMSCs. We propose that Egr-1 acts as immediate glucose biological sensor in cMSCs after a short period of stimuli, likely inducing epigenetic modifications.
Antiproliferative Evaluation of Isofuranodiene on Breast and Prostate Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Buccioni Michela , Dal Ben Diego , Lambertucci Catia , Maggi Filippo , Papa Fabrizio , Thomas Ajiroghene , Santinelli Claudia , Marucci Gabriella
Published: May 2014

The anticancer activity of isofuranodiene, extracted fromSmyrnium olusatrum, was evaluated in human breast adenocarcinomas MDA-MB 231 and BT 474, and Caucasian prostate adenocarcinoma PC 3 cell lines by MTS assay. MTS assay showed a dose-dependent growth inhibition in the tumor cell lines after isofuranodiene treatment. The best antiproliferative activity of the isofuranodiene was found on PC 3 cells with an IC50value of 29 μM, which was slightly less than the inhibition against the two breast adenocarcinoma cell lines with IC50values of 59 and 55 μM on MDA-MB 231 and BT 474, respectively. Hoechst 33258 assay was performed in order to study the growth inhibition mechanism in prostate cancer cell line; the results indicate that isofuranodiene induces apoptosis. Overall, the understudy compound has a good anticancer activity especially towards the PC 3. On the contrary, it is less active on Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO) and human embryonic kidney (HEK 293) appearing as a good candidate as a potential natural anticancer drug with low side effects.
Antitumor Activity of Chinese Propolis in Human Breast Cancer MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 Cells
Authors: Xuan Hongzhuan , Li Zhen , Yan Haiyue , Sang Qing , Wang Kai , He Qingtao , Wang Yuanjun , Hu Fuliang
Published: May 2014

Chinese propolis has been reported to possess various biological activities such as antitumor. In present study, anticancer activity of ethanol extract of Chinese propolis (EECP) at 25, 50, 100, and 200 μg/mL was explored by testing the cytotoxicity in MCF‐7 (human breast cancer ER(+)) and MDA‐MB‐231 (human breast cancer ER(−)) cells. EECP revealed a dose‐ and time‐dependent cytotoxic effect. Furthermore, annexin A7 (ANXA7), p53, nuclear factor‐κB p65 (NF‐κB p65), reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential were investigated. Our data indicated that treatment of EECP for 24 and 48 h induced both cells apoptosis obviously. Exposure to EECP significantly increased ANXA7 expression and ROS level, and NF‐κB p65 level and mitochondrial membrane potential were depressed by EECP dramatically. The effects of EECP on p53 level were different in MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells, which indicated that EECP exerted its antitumor effects in MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells by inducing apoptosis, regulating the levels of ANXA7, p53, and NF‐κB p65, upregulating intracellular ROS, and decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential. Interestingly, EECP had little or small cytotoxicity on normal human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). These results suggest that EECP is a potential alternative agent on breast cancer treatment.
Kernel Based Telegraph‐Diffusion Equation for Image Noise Removal
Authors: Yang Yu-Qian , Zhang Cheng-Yi
Published: May 2014

The second‐order partial differential equations have good performances on noise smoothing and edge preservation. However, for low signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) images, the discrimination between edges and noise is a challenging problem. In this paper, the authors propose a kernel based telegraph‐diffusion equation (KTDE) for noise removal. In this method, a kernelized gradient operator is introduced in the second‐order telegraph‐diffusion equation (TDE), which leads to more effective noise removal capability. Experiment results show that this method outperforms several anisotropic diffusion methods and the TDE method for noise removal and edge preservation.
Measurement‐Based Vehicle Load Model for Urban Expressway Bridges
Authors: Chen Bin , Zhong Zheng , Xie Xu , Lu Pengzhen
Published: May 2014

Significant changes in vehicle loads have occurred in China due to the development of the automobile industry and transportation within the past two decades, particularly the rapid increase in traffic flow and the large‐scale emergence of heavy trucks. However, research into vehicle loadings on urban bridges is not well developed. In this study, based on traffic flow data collected using a weigh‐in‐motion system installed on an expressway in an urban logistics zone, we analyzed the traffic flow, vehicle types, and gross vehicle weight (GVW) features and developed models for the vehicle load and fatigue load. According to the axle space, axle types, and axle number, the trucks in the traffic flow were classified into 10 representative vehicle types. The probability distribution of the GVW was fitted to a three‐class mixed log‐normal distribution. Using the improved Gumbel method, we determined the extreme value distribution of the vehicle loadings in the purpose reference period and assessed the vehicle loadings of urban bridges. In addition, using the equivalent damage theory, six equivalent vehicle models were established according to the measurements of the axle weight and axle space, thereby obtaining a simplified model of fatigue vehicle loadings on urban expressway bridges.
Intracochlear Pressure Changes due to Round Window Opening: A Model Experiment
Authors: Mittmann P. , Ernst A. , Todt I.
Published: May 2014

To preserve residual hearing in cochlea implantation, the electrode design has been refined and an atraumatic insertion of the cochlea electrode has become one aspect of cochlea implant research. The opening of the round window can be assumed to be a contributing factor in an atraumatic concept. The aim of our study was to observe intracochlear pressure changes due to different opening conditions of an artificial round window membrane. The experiments were performed in an artificial cochlea model. A round window was simulated with a polythene foil and a pressure sensor was placed in the helicotrema area to monitor intraluminal pressure changes. Openings of the artificial round window membrane were performed using different ways. Opening the artificial round window mechanically showed a biphasic behaviour of pressure change. Laser openings showed a unidirectional pressure change. The lowest pressure changes were observed when opening the artificial round window membrane using a diode laser. The highest pressure changes were seen when using a needle. The openings with the CO2laser showed a negative intracochlear pressure and a loss of fluid. In our model experiments, we could prove that the opening of the artificial round window membrane causes various intracochlear pressure changes.
Circularly Polarized S Band Dual Frequency Square Patch Antenna Using Glass Microfiber Reinforced PTFE Composite
Authors: Samsuzzaman M. , Islam M. T. , Arshad Haslina , Mandeep J. S. , Misran N.
Published: May 2014

Circularly polarized (CP) dual frequency cross-shaped slotted patch antenna on 1.575 mm thick glass microfiber reinforced polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composite material substrate is designed and fabricated for satellite applications. Asymmetric cross-shaped slots are embedded in the middle of the square patch for CP radiation and four hexagonal slots are etched on the four sides of the square patch for desired dual frequency. Different substrate materials have been analysed to achieve the desired operating band. The experimental results show that the impedance bandwidth is approximately 30 MHz (2.16 GHz to 2.19 GHz) for lower band and 40 MHz (3.29 GHz to 3.33 GHz) for higher band with an average peak gain of 6.59 dBiC and 5.52 dBiC, respectively. Several optimizations are performed to obtain the values of the antenna physical parameters. Moreover, the proposed antenna possesses compactness, light weight, simplicity, low cost, and circularly polarized. It is an attractive candidate for dual band satellite antennas where lower band can be used for uplink and upper band can be used for downlink.
CD57 Expression in Incidental, Clinically Manifest, and Metastatic Carcinoma of the Prostate
Authors: Wangerin Holger , Kristiansen Glen , Schlomm Thorsten , Stephan Carsten , Gunia Sven , Zimpfer Annette , Weichert Wilko , Sauter Guido , Erbersdobler Andreas
Published: May 2014

Objectives. CD57 is normally found on NK-cells, but little is known about its expression in prostatic tissue.Methods. We investigated CD57 expression by immunohistochemistry using tissue microarrays containing 3262 prostate cancers (PCa), lymph node metastases, and benign prostatic tissue. The results were compared with clinical and pathological parameters.Results. Overall, 87% of PCa showed a moderate or strong expression of CD57. There was no significant difference to corresponding benign prostatic tissue. CD57 was increasingly lost from incidental over clinically manifest cancers to metastases. It correlated significantly with Gleason grade and pT-category, but not with PSA tissue expression. Loss of CD57 expression was an independent risk factor for PSA recurrence after prostatectomy in a multivariate Cox regression analysis. In standard sections, CD57 expression was heterogeneous, especially in large, high-grade PCa.Conclusions. There is a peculiar expression of CD57 in PCa and benign prostatic tissue. CD57 loss is associated with tumor dedifferentiation and tumor size. However, the use of this marker for prognostic purposes is hampered by its heterogeneous expression.
Productivity for Horizontal Wells in Low‐Permeability Reservoir with Oil/Water Two‐Phase Flow
Authors: Zhao Yu-Long , Zhang Lie-Hui , He Zhi-Xiong , Zhang Bo-Ning
Published: May 2014

This paper presents a semianalytical steady‐state productivity of oil/water two‐phase flow in low‐permeability reservoirs with both top and bottom boundaries closed which takes the permeability stress‐sensitive and threshold pressure gradient into account. Using the similar approach as Joshi’s (1988), the three‐dimensional (3D) horizontal well problem is divided into two two‐dimensional problems (2D), and then the corresponding nonlinear steady seepage mathematical models in vertical and horizontal planes are established. Through the separation of variables method and equivalent flow resistance principle, the productivity equation of horizontal well is obtained. The liquid and oil productivity with different influential factors are plotted, and the related effects are also analyzed. This paper expanded the conventional productivity equations of single phase into multiphase flow which have both theoretical and practical significance in predicting production behaviors in such reservoirs.
Successful Treatment of Mild Pediatric Kasabach-Merritt Phenomenon with Propranolol Monotherapy
Authors: Choeyprasert Worawut , Natesirinilkul Rungrote , Charoenkwan Pimlak
Published: May 2014

Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon (KMP) is relatively rare in childhood and adolescents with high mortality rate because of its hemorrhagic complications and unresponsiveness to treatments such as corticosteroids, vincristine, intravascular embolization, and/or surgery. Propranolol, aβ-adrenergic receptor blocker, has a promising efficacy against vascular tumors such as infantile hemangiomas. But limited and variable data has been reported regarding the role of propranolol in treatment of KMP. We herein reported the successful treatment of mild pediatric KMP with propranolol monotherapy in a case of a five-week-old child with kaposiform hemangioendothelioma with successful treatment of both clinical and hematologic responses. After eight months of follow-up, patient still had stable cutaneous lesion while receiving propranolol monotherapy. Regular hematologic monitoring was done in order to detect any late relapse of the disease. Six months after discontinuation of propranolol, patient has still remained free of hematologic relapse, and primary cutaneous lesion has become a pale pink, 1 cm sized skin lesion.
Progesterone Induces the Growth and Infiltration of Human Astrocytoma Cells Implanted in the Cerebral Cortex of the Rat
Authors: Germán-Castelán Liliana , Manjarrez-Marmolejo Joaquín , González-Arenas Aliesha , González-Morán María Genoveva , Camacho-Arroyo Ignacio
Published: May 2014

Progesterone (P4) promotes cell proliferation in several types of cancer, including brain tumors such as astrocytomas, the most common and aggressive primary intracerebral neoplasm in humans. In this work, we studied the effects of P4and its intracellular receptor antagonist, RU486, on growth and infiltration of U373 cells derived from a human astrocytoma grade III, implanted in the motor cortex of adult male rats, using two treatment schemes. In the first one, fifteen days after cells implantation, rats were daily subcutaneously treated with vehicle (propylene glycol, 160 μL), P4(1 mg), RU486 (5 mg), or P4+ RU486 (1 mg and 5 mg, resp.) for 21 days. In the second one, treatments started 8 weeks after cells implantation and lasted for 14 days. In both schemes we found that P4significantly increased the tumor area as compared with the rest of the treatments, whereas RU486 blocked P4effects. All rats treated with P4showed tumor infiltration, while 28.6% and 42.9% of the animals treated with RU486 and P4+ RU486, respectively, presented it. Our data suggest that P4promotes growth and migration of human astrocytoma cells implanted in the motor cortex of the rat through the interaction with its intracellular receptor.
Interactive Whiteboards in Mathematics Teaching: A Literature Review
Authors: De Vita Mauro , Verschaffel Lieven , Elen Jan
Published: May 2014

An interactive whiteboard (IWB) is a relatively new tool that provides interesting affordances in the classroom environment, such as multiple visualization and multimedia presentation and ability for movement and animation. These affordances make IWBs an innovative tool with high potential for mathematics instructional environments. IWBs can be used to focus on the development of specific mathematical concepts and to improve mathematical knowledge and understanding. The aim of this paper is to review the existing literature upon the use of interactive whiteboards (IWBs) in mathematics classrooms. The reviewed studies offer a wide view of IWBs’ affordances, of the more interesting didactic practices, and of the difficulties of embedding this new technology in the classroom. The capabilities of IWBs to enhance the quality of interaction, and, consequently, to improve conceptual mathematical understanding are broadly recognized. Despite these capabilities, evidence from the studies points to a certain inertia on the part of many teachers to do anything else than use IWBs as large-scale visual blackboards or presentation tools. The emerging view of how to attempt to overcome these obstacles is that there is need for greater attention to the pedagogy associated with IWB use and, more specifically, to stimulate the design of new kinds of learning environments.
Magnetorheological Damper Working in Squeeze Mode
Authors: Gong Xinglong , Ruan Xiaohui , Xuan Shouhu , Yan Qifan , Deng Huaxia
Published: May 2014

This research is focused on evaluation of the magnetorheological fluids (MRFs) based damper which works in squeeze mode. The operation direction of this damper is parallel to the direction of the external magnetic field. Before testing, commercial software ANSYS was used to analyze the magnetic field distribution inside the damper generated by charging current in the coil. The performance of the damper was tested by using the MTS809 (produced by MTS Systems Corporation, USA). For simulation of this damper, a mathematical model was set up. Experimental results showed that the small squeezed MR damper could produce large damping force; for example, the maximum damping force is nearly 6 kN, while the amplitude is 1.2 mm, the frequency is 1.0 Hz, and the current is 2.0 A, and the damping force was controllable by changing the current in the coil. The damping force versus displacement curves are complex. We divide them into four regions for simulation. The maximum damper force increased quickly with the increasing of the current in coil. This kind of damper can be used in vibration isolation for precise equipment.
Improved Extreme Learning Machine and Its Application in Image Quality Assessment
Authors: Mao Li , Zhang Lidong , Liu Xingyang , Li Chaofeng , Yang Hong
Published: May 2014

Extreme learning machine (ELM) is a new class of single‐hidden layer feedforward neural network (SLFN), which is simple in theory and fast in implementation. Zong et al. propose a weighted extreme learning machine for learning data with imbalanced class distribution, which maintains the advantages from original ELM. However, the current reported ELM and its improved version are only based on the empirical risk minimization principle, which may suffer from overfitting. To solve the overfitting troubles, in this paper, we incorporate the structural risk minimization principle into the (weighted) ELM, and propose a modified (weighted) extreme learning machine (M‐ELM and M‐WELM). Experimental results show that our proposed M‐WELM outperforms the current reported extreme learning machine algorithm in image quality assessment.
Strong and Total Lagrange Dualities for Quasiconvex Programming
Authors: Fang Donghui , Luo XianFa , Wang Xianyun
Published: May 2014

We consider the strong and total Lagrange dualities for infinite quasiconvex optimization problems. By using the epigraphs of thez-quasi-conjugates and the Greenberg-Pierskalla subdifferential of these functions, we introduce some new constraint qualifications. Under the new constraint qualifications, we provide some necessary and sufficient conditions for infinite quasiconvex optimization problems to have the strong and total Lagrange dualities.
The Solvability and Numerical Simulation for the Elastic Beam Problems with Nonlinear Boundary Conditions
Authors: Gao Qun
Published: May 2014

We study the existence of multiple solutions for a fourth-order nonlinear boundary value problem. We give some new criteria for guaranteeing that the fourth-order elastic beam equation with a perturbed term has at least three solutions. The proof is based on some three critical points theorems of B. Ricceri. Furthermore, numerical simulations are also presented.
Modelling the Nonlinear Wave Motion within the Scope of the Fractional Calculus
Authors: Atangana Abdon , Tuluce Demiray Seyma , Bulut Hasan
Published: May 2014

The aim of this paper was to first extend the model describing the nonlinear wave movement to the concept of noninteger order derivative. The extended equation was investigated within the scope of an iterative method. The stability and convergence analysis of the iteration method for this extended equation was presented in detail. The uniqueness of the special solution was also investigated. A resume of the method for solving this equation was provided. The algorithm was used to derive the unique special solution for given initial conditions.
Tropical Legume Crop Rotation and Nitrogen Fertilizer Effects on Agronomic and Nitrogen Efficiency of Rice
Authors: Rahman Motior M. , Islam Aminul M. , Azirun Sofian M. , Boyce Amru N.
Published: May 2014

Bush bean, long bean, mung bean, and winged bean plants were grown with N fertilizer at rates of 0, 2, 4, and 6 g N m−2preceding rice planting. Concurrently, rice was grown with N fertilizer at rates of 0, 4, 8, and 12 g N m−2. No chemical fertilizer was used in the 2nd year of crop to estimate the nitrogen agronomic efficiency (NAE), nitrogen recovery efficiency (NRE), N uptake, and rice yield when legume crops were grown in rotation with rice. Rice after winged bean grown with N at the rate of 4 g N m−2achieved significantly higher NRE, NAE, and N uptake in both years. Rice after winged bean grown without N fertilizer produced 13–23% higher grain yield than rice after fallow rotation with 8 g N m−2. The results revealed that rice after winged bean without fertilizer and rice after long bean with N fertilizer at the rate of 4 g N m−2can produce rice yield equivalent to that of rice after fallow with N fertilizer at rates of 8 g N m−2. The NAE, NRE, and harvest index values for rice after winged bean or other legume crop rotation indicated a positive response for rice production without deteriorating soil fertility.
An Automatic Indirect Immunofluorescence Cell Segmentation System
Authors: Chan Yung-Kuan , Huang Der-Chen , Liu Kuo-Ching , Chen Rong-Tai , Jiang Xiaoyi
Published: May 2014

Indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) with HEp‐2 cells has been used for the detection of antinuclear autoantibodies (ANA) in systemic autoimmune diseases. The ANA testing allows us to scan a broad range of autoantibody entities and to describe them by distinct fluorescence patterns. Automatic inspection for fluorescence patterns in an IIF image can assist physicians, without relevant experience, in making correct diagnosis. How to segment the cells from an IIF image is essential in developing an automatic inspection system for ANA testing. This paper focuses on the cell detection and segmentation; an efficient method is proposed for automatically detecting the cells with fluorescence pattern in an IIF image. Cell culture is a process in which cells grow under control. Cell counting technology plays an important role in measuring the cell density in a culture tank. Moreover, assessing medium suitability, determining population doubling times, and monitoring cell growth in cultures all require a means of quantifying cell population. The proposed method also can be used to count the cells from an image taken under a fluorescence microscope.
The Flow Field Analysis and Flow Calculation of Ultrasonic Flowmeter Based on the Fluent Software
Authors: Guo Ling , Sun Yue , Liu Ling , Shen Zhixi , Gao Ruizhen , Zhao Kai
Published: May 2014

We can build the three-dimensional structure model based on the Gambit software and achieve the distribution of flow field in the pipe and reflux flow condition at the position of transducer in regard to the real position of transducer according to the Fluent software. Under the framework, define the reflux length based on the distance of reflux along the channel and evaluate the effect of reflux on flow field. Then we can correct the power factor with the transmission speed difference method in the ideal condition and obtain the matching expression of power correction factor according to the practice model. In the end, analyze the simulation experience and produce the sample table based on the proposed model. The comparative analysis of test results and simulation results demonstrates the validity and feasibility of the proposed simulation method. The research in this paper will lay a foundation for further study on the optimization of ultrasonic flowmeter, enhance the measurement precision, and extend the application of engineering.
Study on Evolutionary Path of University Students’ Entrepreneurship Training
Authors: Yang Daojian , Zhao Xicang
Published: May 2014

Aiming at studying the evolution pattern of cultivating the ability of university students’ entrepreneurship, this paper established the payoff matrix between the university and students agent with the evolutionary economics method. The analysis of the evolution of the communication process model reveals how the choice strategy of individuals influences that of groups. Numerical simulation also demonstrates the influences of different values of decision‐making parameters and the change of initial conditions on the result of evolution. It is found that the evolution path system of university students’ entrepreneurial ability has two kinds of modes: one is the ideal state; and the other one is the bad “lock” state. By adjusting parameters, we can jump out of the bad “lock” state, thus optimizing cultivation path.
Age-Dependent Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) Activity and LDL Oxidation in Wistar Rats during Their Entire Lifespan
Authors: Kumar Dileep , Rizvi Syed Ibrahim
Published: May 2014

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is an HDL bound enzyme which plays a key role in the protection of LDL and HDL from oxidation by hydrolyzing activated phospholipids and lipid peroxide products. Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of atherosclerosis by oxidation of LDL. This study was conducted to determine age-dependent changes in plasma PON1 arylesterase activity and LDL oxidation in rats during their entire lifespan. 48 Wistar strain rats were grouped in six different age groups (1, 4, 8, 12, 18, and 24 months). We observe a significant (P<0.001) age-dependent decrease in plasma PON1 arylesterase activity correlating with increase in susceptibility of LDL oxidation and increase in plasma MDA level concomitantly with a significant (P<0.001) decrease in plasma radical scavenging activity after 8 months. The reduction of PON1 and free radical scavenging activity with age could have a considerable impact on the increased incidence of atherosclerosis with age. Our observation of a significant decline in PON1 activity which correlates with increased LDL oxidation after 8 months of age is an interesting observation and needs further investigation.
The Analysis of the Disease Spectrum in China
Authors: Zhang Xin , Zhou Xiaoping , Huang Xinyi , Miao Shumei , Shan Hongwei , Jing Shenqi , Shan Tao , Guo Jianjun , Kou Jianqiu , Wang Zhongmin , Liu Yun
Published: May 2014

Analysis of the related risks of disease provides a scientific basis for disease prevention and treatment, hospital management, and policy formulation by the changes in disease spectrum of patients in hospital. Retrospective analysis was made to the first diagnosis, age, gender, daily average cost of hospitalized patients, and other factors in the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University during 2006–2013. The top 4 cases were as follows: cardiovascular disease, malignant tumors, lung infections, and noninsulin dependent diabetes mellitus. By the age of disease analysis, we found a younger age trend of cardiovascular disease, and the age of onset of cancer or diabetes was somewhat postponed. The average daily cost of hospitalization and the average daily cost of the main noncommunicable diseases were both on the rise. Noncommunicable diseases occupy an increasingly important position in the constitution of the disease, and they caused an increasing medical burden. People should pay attention to health from the aspects of lifestyle changing. Hospitals should focus on building the appropriate discipline. On the other hand, an integrated government response is required to tackle key risks. Multiple interventions are needed to lower the burden of these diseases and to improve national health.
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Four Bariatric Surgery Procedures in Obese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Pham Sylvie , Gancel Antoine , Scotte Michel , Houivet Estelle , Huet Emmanuel , Lefebvre Hervé , Kuhn Jean-Marc , Prevost Gaetan
Published: May 2014

Aim. The aim of the present retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of four bariatric surgical procedures to induce diabetes remission and lower cardiovascular risk factors in diabetic obese patients. Moreover, the influence of surgery on weight evolution in the diabetic population was compared with that observed in a nondiabetic matched population.Methods. Among 970 patients who were operated on in our center since 2001, 81 patients were identified as type 2 diabetes. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (GB), intervention type Mason (MA), gastric bypass (RYGB), and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) were performed, respectively, in 25%, 17%, 28%, and 30% of this diabetic population.Results. The resolution rate of diabetes one year after surgery was significantly higher after SG than GB (62.5% versus 20%,P<0.01), but not significantly different between SG and RYGB. In terms of LDL-cholesterol reduction, RYGB was equivalent to SG and superior to CGMA or GB. Considering the other cardiovascular risk factors, there was no significant difference according to surgical procedures. The weight loss was not statistically different between diabetic and nondiabetic matched patients regardless of the surgical procedures used.Conclusion. Our data confirm that the efficacy of surgery to treat diabetes is variable among the diverse procedures and SG might be an interesting option in this context.
High-Order Algorithms for Riesz Derivative and Their Applications(I)
Authors: Ding Hengfei , Li Changpin , Chen YangQuan
Published: May 2014

We firstly develop the high-order numerical algorithms for the left and right Riemann-Liouville derivatives. Using these derived schemes, we can get high-order algorithms for the Riesz fractional derivative. Based on the approximate algorithm, we construct the numerical scheme for the space Riesz fractional diffusion equation, where a fourth-order scheme is proposed for the spacial Riesz derivative, and where a compact difference scheme is applied to approximating the first-order time derivative. It is shown that the difference scheme is unconditionally stable and convergent. Finally, numerical examples are provided which are in line with the theoretical analysis.
Inflammatory Modulation Effect of Glycopeptide fromGanoderma capense(Lloyd) Teng
Authors: Zhou Yan , Chen Song , Ding Ran , Yao Wenbing , Gao Xiangdong
Published: May 2014

Glycopeptide from Ganoderma capense (Lloyd) Teng (GCGP) injection is widely used in kinds of immune disorders, but little is known about the molecular mechanisms of how GCGP could interfere with immune cell function. In the present study, we have found that GCGP had inflammatory modulation effects on macrophage cells to maintain NO production and iNOS expression at the normal level. Furthermore, western blot analysis showed that the underlying mechanism of immunomodulatory effect of GCGP involved NF-κB p65 translation, IκB phosphorylation, and degradation; NF-κB inhibitor assays also confirmed the results. In addition, competition study showed that GCGP could inhibit LPS from binding to macrophage cells. Our data indicates that GCGP, which may share the same receptor(s) expressed by macrophage cells with LPS, exerted immunomodulatory effect in a NF-κB-dependent signaling pathway in macrophages.
Ripening of Sudanese Braided (Muddaffara) Cheese Manufactured from Raw or Pasteurized Milk: Effect of Heat Treatment and Salt Concentration on the Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Altahir Mohamed O. E. , Elgasim Elgasim A. , Mohamed Ahmed Isam A.
Published: May 2014

The objective of the study was to investigate the interactive effect of heat treatment (raw or pasteurized milk), ripening in salted whey (SW) and storage period for up to 3 months on the physicochemical properties of Sudanese braided cheese (SBC). Braided cheeses were manufactured from raw (BCRM) and pasteurized (BCPM) milk and ripened in SW (0%, 5%, and 10% salt) for up to 90 days. All the treatments significantly (P≤0.05) affected the physicochemical characteristics of SBC. The total solid, protein, and fat contents of BCRM or BCPM decreased (P≤0.05), whereas their TA, SN, and salt contents increased significantly (P≤0.05) as storage period and the salt level of the whey were elevated. Both FRI and SRI of BCRM and BCPM increased with the increase in storage period and the salt level of the whey. For SN, FRI, SRI, pH, and moisture contents the magnitude of the change was more pronounced in BCRM than in BCPM, while for protein, fat, salt, and TS contents, the opposite was true; that is, the magnitude of the change was more pronounced in BCPM than in BCRM. Further studies are required to standardize muddaffara cheese manufacturing procedure particularly in rural areas.
Hippocampal Neurogenesis and Antidepressive Therapy: Shocking Relations
Authors: Rotheneichner Peter , Lange Simona , O’Sullivan Anna , Marschallinger Julia , Zaunmair Pia , Geretsegger Christian , Aigner Ludwig , Couillard-Despres Sebastien
Published: May 2014

Speculations on the involvement of hippocampal neurogenesis, a form of neuronal plasticity, in the aetiology of depression and the mode of action of antidepressive therapies, started to arise more than a decade ago. But still, conclusive evidence that adult neurogenesis contributes to antidepressive effects of pharmacological and physical therapies has not been generated yet. This review revisits recent findings on the close relation between the mode(s) of action of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), a powerful intervention used as second-line treatment of major depression disorders, and the neurogenic response to ECT. Following application of electroconvulsive shocks, intricate interactions between neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and microglia activation, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the secretion of neurotrophic factors have been documented. Furthermore, considering the fact that neurogenesis strongly diminishes along aging, we investigated the response to electroconvulsive shocks in young as well as in aged cohorts of mice.
Presence ofLeishmaniaandBrucellaSpecies in the Golden JackalCanis aureusin Serbia
Authors: Ćirović Duško , Chochlakis Dimosthenis , Tomanović Snežana , Sukara Ratko , Penezić Aleksandra , Tselentis Yannis , Psaroulaki Anna
Published: May 2014

The golden jackalCanis aureusoccurs in south-eastern Europe, Asia, the Middle East, the Caucasus, and Africa. In Serbia, jackals neared extinction; however, during the last 30 years, the species started to spread quickly and to increase in number. Few studies in the past have revealed their potential role as carriers of zoonotic diseases. Animal samples were collected over a three-year period (01/2010–02/2013) from 12 sites all over Serbia. Of the tissue samples collected, spleen was chosen as the tissue to proceed; all samples were tested forLeishmaniaspecies andBrucellaspecies by real-time PCR. Of the 216 samples collected, 15 (6.9%) were positive forLeishmaniaspecies, while four (1.9%) were positive forB. canis. The potential epidemiologic role of the golden jackal in carrying and dispersing zoonotic diseases in Serbia should be taken under consideration when applying surveillance monitoring schemes.
Evolutionary Dynamics of rDNA Clusters in Chromosomes of Five Clam Species Belonging to the Family Veneridae (Mollusca, Bivalvia)
Authors: Pérez-García Concepción , Hurtado Ninoska S. , Morán Paloma , Pasantes Juan J.
Published: May 2014

The chromosomal changes accompanying bivalve evolution are an area about which few reports have been published. To improve our understanding on chromosome evolution in Veneridae, ribosomal RNA gene clusters were mapped by fluorescentin situhybridization (FISH) to chromosomes of five species of venerid clams (Venerupis corrugata,Ruditapes philippinarum,Ruditapes decussatus,Dosinia exoleta, andVenus verrucosa). The results were anchored to the most comprehensive molecular phylogenetic tree currently available for Veneridae. While a single major rDNA cluster was found in each of the five species, the number of 5S rDNA clusters showed high interspecies variation. Major rDNA was either subterminal to the short arms or intercalary to the long arms of metacentric or submetacentric chromosomes, whereas minor rDNA signals showed higher variability. Major and minor rDNAs map to different chromosome pairs in all species, but inR. decussatusone of the minor rDNA gene clusters and the major rDNA cluster were located in the same position on a single chromosome pair. This interspersion of both sequences was confirmed by fiber FISH. Telomeric signals appeared at both ends of every chromosome in all species. FISH mapping data are discussed in relation to the molecular phylogenetic trees currently available for Veneridae.
Periodicity of the Positive Solutions of a Fuzzy Max-Difference Equation
Authors: He Qiuli , Tao Chunyan , Sun Taixiang , Liu Xinhe , Su Dongwei
Published: May 2014

We investigate the periodic nature of the positive solutions of the fuzzy max-difference equationxn+1=maxAn/xn-m,xn-k,n=0,1,…, wherek,m∈{1,2,…},Anis a periodic sequence of fuzzy numbers, andx-d,x-d+1,…,x0are positive fuzzy numbers withd=m,k. We show that every positive solution of this equation is eventually periodic with periodk+1.
A Novel Adaptive Elite‐Based Particle Swarm Optimization Applied to VAR Optimization in Electric Power Systems
Authors: Hong Ying-Yi , Lin Faa-Jeng , Chen Syuan-Yi , Lin Yu-Chun , Hsu Fu-Yuan
Published: May 2014

Particle swarm optimization (PSO) has been successfully applied to solve many practical engineering problems. However, more efficient strategies are needed to coordinate global and local searches in the solution space when the studied problem is extremely nonlinear and highly dimensional. This work proposes a novel adaptive elite‐based PSO approach. The adaptive elite strategies involve the following two tasks: (1) appending the mean search to the original approach and (2) pruning/cloning particles. The mean search, leading to stable convergence, helps the iterative process coordinate between the global and local searches. The mean of the particles and standard deviation of the distances between pairs of particles are utilized to prune distant particles. The best particle is cloned and it replaces the pruned distant particles in the elite strategy. To evaluate the performance and generality of the proposed method, four benchmark functions were tested by traditional PSO, chaotic PSO, differential evolution, and genetic algorithm. Finally, a realistic loss minimization problem in an electric power system is studied to show the robustness of the proposed method.
Association between Positivity and Smoking Cessation
Authors: Grassi Maria Caterina , Alessandri Guido , Pasquariello Stefania , Milioni Michela , Enea Domenico , Ceccanti Mauro , Nencini Paolo , Caprara Gian Vittorio
Published: May 2014

The literature documents that personality characteristics are associated with healthy lifestyles, including smoking. Among positive traits, Positivity (POS), defined as a general disposition conducive to facing experience under a positive outlook has shown robust associations with psychological health. Thus, the present study investigated the extent to which POS is able to predict (i) relapse after quitting smoking and (ii) the desire to smoke again. All participants (481) had previously attended a Group Counselling Program (GCP) for Smoking Cessation (from 2005 through 2010). They were contacted through telephone interview. Among participants, 244 were ex-smokers (age: years56.3±10.08, 52% female) and 237 were still-smokers (age: years55.0±9.63; 63.5% female). The association of POS with “craving to smoke” levels was assessed with multivariate linear regression analysis while controlling also for important differences in personality such as conscientiousness and general self-efficacy, as well as for gender and age. Results showed that POS was significantly and negatively associated with smoking status and with craving to smoke. Among covariates (i.e., conscientiousness, generalized self-efficacy), gender was associated with smoking status and with craving to smoke. Altogether these findings corroborate the idea that POS plays a significant role in sustaining individuals' efforts to quit smoking.
A Stochastic Dynamic Programming Approach Based on Bounded Rationality and Application to Dynamic Portfolio Choice
Authors: Bi Wenjie , Tian Liuqing , Liu Haiying , Chen Xiaohong
Published: May 2014

Dynamic portfolio choice is an important problem in finance, but the optimal strategy analysis is difficult when considering multiple stochastic volatility variables such as the stock price, interest rate, and income. Besides, recent research in experimental economics indicates that the agent shows limited attention, considering only the variables with high fluctuations but ignoring those with small ones. By extending the sparse max method, we propose an approach to solve dynamic programming problem with small stochastic volatility and the agent’s bounded rationality. This approach considers the agent’s behavioral factors and avoids effectively the “Curse of Dimensionality” in a dynamic programming problem with more than a few state variables. We then apply it to Merton dynamic portfolio choice model with stochastic volatility and get a tractable solution. Finally, the numerical analysis shows that the bounded rational agent may pay no attention to the varying equity premium and interest rate with small variance.
A Conjunction Method of Wavelet Transform-Particle Swarm Optimization-Support Vector Machine for Streamflow Forecasting
Authors: Zhang Fanping , Dai Huichao , Tang Deshan
Published: May 2014

Streamflow forecasting has an important role in water resource management and reservoir operation. Support vector machine (SVM) is an appropriate and suitable method for streamflow prediction due to its best versatility, robustness, and effectiveness. In this study, a wavelet transform particle swarm optimization support vector machine (WT-PSO-SVM) model is proposed and applied for streamflow time series prediction. Firstly, the streamflow time series were decomposed into various details (Ds) and an approximation (A3) at three resolution levels (21-22-23) using Daubechies (db3) discrete wavelet. Correlation coefficients between eachDsubtime series and original monthly streamflow time series are calculated.Dscomponents with high correlation coefficients (D3) are added to the approximation (A3) as the input values of the SVM model. Secondly, the PSO is employed to select the optimal parameters,C,ε, andσ, of the SVM model. Finally, the WT-PSO-SVM models are trained and tested by the monthly streamflow time series of Tangnaihai Station located in Yellow River upper stream from January 1956 to December 2008. The test results indicate that the WT-PSO-SVM approach provide a superior alternative to the single SVM model for forecasting monthly streamflow in situations without formulating models for internal structure of the watershed.
Endovascular Treatment of Vertebral Column Metastases Using Intra-Arterial Cisplatin: Pilot Experience
Authors: Chopko Bohdan W.
Published: May 2014

Background and Importance. Treatment of spinal column metastatic tumors is challenging, especially in the setting of progressive disease despite previous radiation and chemotherapy. Intra-arterial chemotherapy is an uncommonly used but established treatment for head and neck cancers, retinoblastoma, and glioblastoma. The author reports extension of the IAC concept to vertebral metastatic tumors.Clinical Presentation. Two patients with intractable spinal pain secondary to spinal metastatic involvement at T11-L1 segments were treated with intra-arterial injections of cisplatin, with simultaneous sodium thiosulfate chelation. The first patient, a 60-year old female with metastatic lung carcinoma underwent, three cycles of therapy over a 9-week period; the treated regions demonstrated bone remodeling and sclerosis. The second case was a 40-year old male with malignant pheochromocytoma, who underwent a single treatment and succumbed 5 weeks later from progressive widespread disease. Both patients reported significant pain relief and neither of them exhibited a decline in neurologic function.Conclusion. The intra-arterial delivery of cisplatin appeared to be well tolerated in the two cases. In the case with the longest survival, the treated vertebral segments became more sclerotic, consistent with biomechanical stabilization. Endovascular treatment of spinal metastases may hold promise, especially as newer categories of biologic agents become more widely available.