bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superconformal chemical vapor deposition of thin films in deep features
Authors: Wang Wenjiao B. , Chang Noel N. , Codding Tracey A. , Girolami Gregory S. , Abelson John R.
Published: August 2014

The authors report a new and potentially widely applicable method for the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of films with a superconformal thickness profile in recessed features, i.e., the rate of growth increases with depth away from the opening. Provided that the aspect ratio of the feature is not too large, deposition initially affords a “V” shaped profile; continued deposition eventually fills the feature without leaving a void or seam of low-density material along the centerline. Superconformal deposition occurs under the following set of conditions: (1) growth involves two coreactants; (2) the deposition rate depends directly on the surface concentrations of both coreactants; (3) the molecular diffusivities of the coreactants are different; and (4) the partial pressures of the coreactants are chosen such that the surface coverage of the more rapidly diffusing coreactant is relatively small, and therefore rate-limiting, near the opening. The latter condition can be fulfilled if the more slowly diffusing coreactant is employed in excess or has an intrinsically higher sticking coefficient. Under these circumstances, the deposition rate will increase deeper in the feature for the following reason: the pressure of the slowly diffusing coreactant necessarily drops more quickly with depth than that of the rapidly diffusing coreactant, which increases the fractional surface coverage of the fast-diffusing coreactant and with it the growth rate. At sufficiently large depths, eventually the surface concentration of the more slowly diffusing coreactant will become rate limiting and the growth rate will begin to fall; to obtain superconformal growth, therefore, conditions must be chosen so that the growth rate does not surpass its peak value. As a specific example of how this new approach can be implemented, MgO is deposited at 220 °C using the aminodiboranate precursor Mg(DMADB)2 and H2O. Under properly chosen conditions, the growth rate increases from 1.0 nm/min at the trench opening to 1.8 nm/min at a depth/width ratio of 18. The authors propose a kinetic model that quantitatively explains these observations and, more generally, predicts the film profile as a function of the partial pressures of the coreactants in the gas feed, the molecular diffusivities, and the aspect ratio of the feature. An additional benefit of the model is that it can be used to predict conditions under which perfectly conformal CVD depositions will result. The present method should enable the fabrication of nanoscale devices in which high aspect ratio recessed features need to be completely filled. The method is intrinsic in nature and does not require special surface preparation, the use of a catalyst, or cycles of deposition and etching.
Monitoring Training With Heart-Rate Variability: How Much Compliance Is Needed for Valid Assessment?
Authors: Plews Daniel J. , Laursen Paul B. , Meur Yann Le , Hausswirth Christophe , Kilding Andrew E. , Buchheit Martin
Published: August 2014

Purpose:

To establish the minimum number of days that heart-rate-variability (HRV, ie, the natural logarithm of square root of the mean sum of the squared differences between R-R intervals, Ln rMSSD) data should be averaged to achieve correspondingly equivalent results as data averaged over a 1-wk period.

Methods:

Standardized changes in Ln rMSSD between different phases of training (normal training, functional overreaching (FOR), overall training, and taper) and the correlation coefficients of percentage changes in performance vs changes in Ln rMSSD were compared when averaging Ln rMSSD from 1 to 7 d, randomly selected within the week.

Results:

Standardized Ln rMSSD changes (90% confidence limits, CL) from baseline to overload (FOR) were 0.20 ± 0.28, 0.33 ± 0.26, 0.49 ± 0.33, 0.48 ± 0.28, 0.47 ± 0.26, 0.45 ± 0.26, and 0.43 ± 0.29 on days 1 to 7, respectively. Correlations (90% CL) over the same time sequence and training phase were –.02 ± .23, –.07 ± .23, –.17 ± .22, –.25 ± .22, –.26 ± .22, –.28 ± .21, and –.25 ± .22 on days 1 to 7. There were almost perfect quadratic relationships between standardized changes/r values vs the number of days Ln rMSSD was averaged (r2 = .92 and .97, respectively) in trained triathletes during FOR. This indicates a plateau in the increase in standardized changes/r values’ magnitude after 3 and 4 d, respectively, in trained triathletes.

Conclusion:

Practitioners using HRV to monitor training adaptation should use a minimum of 3 (randomly selected) valid data points per week.
Resident memory CD8 T cells trigger protective innate and adaptive immune responses
Authors: Schenkel Jason M. , Fraser Kathryn A. , Beura Lalit K. , Pauken Kristen E. , Vezys Vaiva , Masopust David
Published: August 2014

Resident memory T cells sound the alarm

Immunological memory protects against reinfection. Resident memory T cells (T
RM
) are long-lived and remain in the tissues where they first encountered a pathogen (see the Perspective by Carbone and Gebhardt). Schenkel
et al.
and Ariotti
et al.
found that CD8
+
T
RM
cells act like first responders in the female reproductive tissue or the skin of mice upon antigen reencounter. By secreting inflammatory proteins, T
RM
cells rapidly activated local immune cells to respond, so much so that they protected against infection with an unrelated pathogen. Iijima and Iwasaki found that CD4
+
T
RM
cells protected mice against reinfection with intravaginal herpes simplex virus 2.

Science
, this issue p.
98
, p.
101
, p.
93
; see also p.
40
Local reorganization of xanthophores fine-tunes and colors the striped pattern of zebrafish
Authors: Mahalwar Prateek , Walderich Brigitte , Singh Ajeet Pratap , Nüsslein-Volhard Christiane
Published: August 2014

Origin of fish pigment cell for pattern

Zebrafish stripes arise from the interactions of pigment cells: black melanophores, iridescent iridophores, and yellow-orange xanthophores. Melanophores and iridophores develop from nerve-associated stem cells, but the origin of xanthophores is unclear. Two studies now reveal that adult xanthophores originate from xanthophores in embryonic and larval fish, when they proliferate to cover the skin before the arrival of black and silver cells in a striped arrangement. Mahalwar
et al.
show that xanthophores change their final shape and color depending on their location. In black cells, xanthophores appear faint and stellate, but in silver cells, they are bright and compact. Precise superposition creates the blue and golden colors. McMenamin
et al.
observe the loss of pigment in embryonic xanthophores and the later reappearance in the adult. They show that redifferentiation depends on the thyroid hormone that also limits melanophore population expansion.

Science
, this issue p.
1362
and p.
1358
Thyroid hormone–dependent adult pigment cell lineage and pattern in zebrafish
Authors: McMenamin Sarah K. , Bain Emily J. , McCann Anna E. , Patterson Larissa B. , Eom Dae Seok , Waller Zachary P. , Hamill James C. , Kuhlman Julie A. , Eisen Judith S. , Parichy David M.
Published: August 2014

Origin of fish pigment cell for pattern

Zebrafish stripes arise from the interactions of pigment cells: black melanophores, iridescent iridophores, and yellow-orange xanthophores. Melanophores and iridophores develop from nerve-associated stem cells, but the origin of xanthophores is unclear. Two studies now reveal that adult xanthophores originate from xanthophores in embryonic and larval fish, when they proliferate to cover the skin before the arrival of black and silver cells in a striped arrangement. Mahalwar
et al.
show that xanthophores change their final shape and color depending on their location. In black cells, xanthophores appear faint and stellate, but in silver cells, they are bright and compact. Precise superposition creates the blue and golden colors. McMenamin
et al.
observe the loss of pigment in embryonic xanthophores and the later reappearance in the adult. They show that redifferentiation depends on the thyroid hormone that also limits melanophore population expansion.

Science
, this issue p.
1362
and p.
1358
Genomic surveillance elucidates Ebola virus origin and transmission during the 2014 outbreak
Authors: Gire Stephen K. , Goba Augustine , Andersen Kristian G. , Sealfon Rachel S. G. , Park Daniel J. , Kanneh Lansana , Jalloh Simbirie , Momoh Mambu , Fullah Mohamed , Dudas Gytis , Wohl Shirlee , Moses Lina M. , Yozwiak Nathan L. , Winnicki Sarah , Matranga Christian B. , Malboeuf Christine M. , Qu James , Gladden Adrianne D. , Schaffner Stephen F. , Yang Xiao , Jiang Pan-Pan , Nekoui Mahan , Colubri Andres , Coomber Moinya Ruth , Fonnie Mbalu , Moigboi Alex , Gbakie Michael , Kamara Fatima K. , Tucker Veronica , Konuwa Edwin , Saffa Sidiki , Sellu Josephine , Jalloh Abdul Azziz , Kovoma Alice , Koninga James , Mustapha Ibrahim , Kargbo Kandeh , Foday Momoh , Yillah Mohamed , Kanneh Franklyn , Robert Willie , Massally James L. B. , Chapman Sinéad B. , Bochicchio James , Murphy Cheryl , Nusbaum Chad , Young Sarah , Birren Bruce W. , Grant Donald S. , Scheiffelin John S. , Lander Eric S. , Happi Christian , Gevao Sahr M. , Gnirke Andreas , Rambaut Andrew , Garry Robert F. , Khan S. Humarr , Sabeti Pardis C.
Published: August 2014

Evolution of Ebola virus over time

The high rate of mortality in the current Ebola epidemic has made it difficult for researchers to collect samples of the virus and study its evolution. Gire
et al.
describe Ebola epidemiology on the basis of 99 whole-genome sequences, including samples from 78 affected individuals. The authors analyzed changes in the viral sequence and conclude that the current outbreak probably resulted from the spread of the virus from central Africa in the past decade. The outbreak started from a single transmission event from an unknown animal reservoir into the human population. Two viral lineages from Guinea then spread from person to person into Sierra Leone.

Science
, this issue p.
1369
Genome Sequence of Paenibacillus polymyxa Strain CICC 10580, Isolated from the Fruit of Noni (
Morinda citrifolia
L.) Grown in the Paracel Islands
Authors: Xu Youqiang , Liu Yang , Yao Su , Li Jinxia , Cheng Chi
Published: August 2014

Noni is a plant reported to have nutritional and therapeutic properties.
Paenibacillus polymyxa
CICC 10580 is a strain that was isolated from the fruit of noni and showed comprehensive antagonistic activity against many pathogens. Its genome was sequenced and assembled (6.10 Mb). The coding sequences (CDSs) correlated with antagonistic activity were annotated.
Draft Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus oryzae Strain SG293
T
Authors: Tanizawa Yasuhiro , Fujisawa Takatomo , Mochizuki Takako , Kaminuma Eli , Nakamura Yasukazu , Tohno Masanori
Published: August 2014

We report the 1.86-Mb draft genome and annotation of
Lactobacillus oryzae
SG293
T
isolated from fermented rice grains. This genome information may provide further insights into the mechanisms underlying the fermentation of rice grains.
Cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric safety of varenicline and bupropion compared with nicotine replacement therapy for smoking cessation: study protocol of a retrospective cohort study using the QResearch general practice database
Authors: Kotz Daniel , Simpson Colin , Viechtbauer Wolfgang , van Schayck Onno C P , West Robert , Sheikh Aziz
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Cigarette smoking continues to be the leading cause of preventable death and is the main risk factor of major diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The best treatment to help smokers quit is a combination of behavioural support with pharmacotherapy. Varenicline is the newest drug on the market and has been shown to be effective in the general smoking population and in smokers with COPD. The safety profile of varenicline was initially established using standard approaches to pharmacovigilance, but postmarketing reports have raised concerns about a possible association between the use of varenicline and cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric events. Although recent studies have not confirmed such an association, further research is needed given the large number of smokers who are being prescribed varenicline, including important subgroups such as smokers with COPD who may be particularly vulnerable to side effects of drugs. The aim of this study is to assess the cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric safety of varenicline using data from the QResearch general practice (GP) database.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a retrospective cohort study in the QResearch GP database. Patients will be categorised into three exposure groups: prescription of (1) varenicline, (2) bupropion or (3) nicotine replacement therapy (NRT Rx; =reference group). We will separately consider major incident neuropsychiatric and cardiovascular outcomes that occur during 6 months of follow-up using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for confounders. Furthermore, propensity score analysis will be used as an analytical approach to account for potential confounding by indication.

Ethics and dissemination

This work involves analysis of anonymised, routinely collected data. The protocol has been independently peer-reviewed by the QResearch Scientific Board and meets the requirements of the Trent research ethics committee. We plan to disseminate the results from this study via articles in international peer-reviewed journals and presentations at relevant national and international health conferences.
A qualitative study exploring use of the surprise question in the care of older people: perceptions of general practitioners and challenges for practice
Authors: Elliott Margaret , Nicholson Caroline
Published: August 2014

Objective

The question “Would you be surprised if this patient were to die in the next 6–12 months?” has been included in UK palliative care guidance with the aim of supporting the identification and care planning of those nearing the end of life. Little is known about how the surprise question is utilised in the care of older people within primary care. This study sought to explore the perceptions and experiences of general practitioners (GPs).

Method

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 GPs. Each interview reflected on the care of two people, aged 80 years or older, selected by the GP as possibly being in the last year of life. Analysis followed a grounded theory approach within a framework of interpretive thematic analysis.

Results

Data discussing 22 clinical cases revealed the difficulties experienced by GPs when assessing prognosis for older people with non-malignant conditions, despite their recognition of multiple mortality risk factors and high symptom burden. GPs did not appear to include the surprise question within their usual practice and expressed concerns regarding its use to facilitate discussion of advance care plans. These concerns highlighted the subjective nature of the surprise question and potential barriers to conducting discussions of preferences for future care.

Conclusions

Greater understanding is needed as to the difficulties experienced by GPs when assessing prognosis in older people. We propose a thematic model which could support GPs by focusing assessment on the supportive and palliative care needs of older people nearing the end of life.
Rapid real-time PCR for detection ofMycobacterium tuberculosiscomplex DNA in formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissues: 16% of histological ‘sarcoid’ may contain such DNA
Authors: Surat Güzin , Wallace William A , Laurenson Ian F , Seagar Amie-Louise
Published: August 2014

Aims

To investigate the diagnostic accuracy of IS6110real-time PCR for detection ofMycobacterium tuberculosiscomplex (MTBC) in DNA extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissues using two different methods. In the absence of material submitted for tuberculosis (TB) culture, MTBC detection in FFPE tissue can be an important aid to diagnosis.

Methods

We collected 144 FFPE tissue blocks (lung and lymph node) for IS6110real-time PCR. Two DNA extraction methods (QIAamp FFPE tissue kit and NucliSENS easyMAG) were assessed within a general laboratory setting. PCR results were compared with histology and culture.

Results

In the histological MTBC and culture MTBC (TB-positive) groups, 72.4% were IS6110-positive and 27.6% negative. IS6110-negative results were obtained from 98%, 61.5% and 84% of the histologically MTBC-negative (TB-negative) group, histologically TB/no culture group and sarcoidosis group, respectively. Review of 19 IS6110-positive patients in the latter three groups showed that 15 had clinical TB. Thirteen of 15 (86.7%) IS6110-positive patients in the histological TB/no culture group and 2 of 4 (50%)IS6110-positive patients in the sarcoidosis group were clinically diagnosed with TB which highlights the difficulty of a pathological diagnosis.

Conclusions

IS6110real-time PCR using easyMAG extracted DNA is a moderately sensitive, specific and rapid method for MTBC detection in FFPE material, but must be interpreted in the overall clinical context. PCR results can be available in around 5 h from FFPE specimen receipt, with minimal hands-on time.
The experience of a battalion physician in the Yom Kippur War
Authors: Brook Itzhak
Published: August 2014

A medical officer's tasks during wartime are especially complex and difficult. This article describes the numerous challenges faced while serving as a battalion physician in the Israeli Army during the 1973 Yom Kippur War. I had to take care of the medical and psychological needs of the hundreds of soldiers in the battalion and also needed to ensure the health of my own medical team so that we could effectively serve those on the battlefield. At the same time, I had to deal with my own anxieties and fear as I experienced the high human cost of war. I also had to constantly assess our strategic situation; be informed of and anticipate future events; make sure that the medical team acted appropriately in the field; be a role model to others; practice preventive medicine; deal with my soldiers’ fears, anxieties and post-traumatic stress; be always available to those in need; improvise when needed and maintain my compassion for human life—even when the life was the enemy's.
An evaluation of the normal range of StO2measurements at rest and following a mixed exercise protocol
Authors: Barker Tom , Spencer P , Kirkman E , Lambert A , Midwinter M
Published: August 2014

Background

Assessment of local tissue oxygenation (StO2) using near infrared spectroscopy is an emerging technique in medical practice with applications in trauma/sepsis management, diagnosis of acute compartment syndrome and assessment of tissue viability. Despite this, there have been little published data on the range of StO2values in normal subjects.

Methods

StO2measurements were recorded in 105 infantry soldiers using an INVOS System Monitor (Somanetics) from both deltoids, the anterior compartment of the leg and the frontal lobe of the brain. Measurements were taken at rest and following completion of a mixed exercise protocol, consisting of overarm pull-ups, sit-ups and a 3-mile run.

Results

StO2values at rest were found to have a wide normal range with a skew left distribution. Mean StO2was similar between the deltoids (left deltoid 80%, right deltoid 79%), but significantly different between other anatomical sites (leg 68%, brain 73%). However, all sites demonstrated a similar lower range cut-off at approximately 40%. Following exercise, there was a significant increase in StO2values at all sites (left deltoid by 3.1±2.0%, right deltoid by 2.6±2.3%, leg by 8.0±2.3% and brain by 8.6±1.9%), which persisted for at least 10 min.

Conclusions

There were statistically significant differences in mean StO2values recorded at different anatomical sites, although the reference ranges were wide and substantially overlapped. StO2increased at all sites after exercise with the effect persisting for at least 10 min. The interaction between exercise and pathological phenomena remains unknown and is an area for further study.
Analysis of center of gravity roller drum soil stiffness on compacted layered earthwork
Authors: Neff Aaron , McAdams Mallory , Wang Judith , Mooney Michael
Published: August 2014

This paper describes the interpretation of intelligent compaction (IC) data from two layered soil test beds using center of gravity (CG) roller-measured soil stiffness. Conventional edge-mounted (EM) roller-measured soil stiffness values are interpreted from vertical accelerations measured by discrete, single-position accelerometers. However, these EM accelerometers are located at variable distances from the drum CG; the resulting vertical accelerations are thus affected by the rotation of the roller drum about the drum CG in the direction of roller travel. This leads to undesirable measurement artifacts, specifically multiple possible soil stiffness values for one soil location and an artificial dependence of the soil stiffness values on the direction of roller travel. In this study, left and right EM acceleration data from a vibratory roller are used to compute vertical accelerations at the CG of the roller drum. These vertical accelerations are used to compute CG stiffness values, which are not subject to the measurement artifacts associated with EM stiffness values. The resulting CG stiffness values are used to interpret IC data from two test beds with multiple 15–30 cm thick base–subbase–subgrade lifts. CG soil stiffness increases with the addition of subbase and base lifts, showing a desired sensitivity to changes in soil materials. CG stiffness also increases with the addition of multiple base lifts, showing a desired sensitivity to an increase in the overall thickness of the base material. This study demonstrates the efficacy of this unambiguous measure of soil stiffness for practical usage in IC of layered earthwork systems.
Classification and quantification of downslope erosion from a geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) when covered only by a black geomembrane
Authors: Brachman R.W.I. , Rentz A. , Rowe R.K. , Take W.A.
Published: August 2014

Field observations of downslope bentonite erosion from a geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) covered by only a black geomembrane are reported for a composite liner left exposed without a protective soil cover for much longer than recommended by the GCL manufacturer. A new nondestructive, light-transmission technique developed to investigate bentonite erosion features in the field is presented. A classification system is developed to describe the type of erosion features observed. Results from five field investigations at the Queen’s University Environmental Liner Test Site (QUELTS II) are reported to quantify the onset, progression, and severity of downslope erosion for one particular geotextile-encased, needle-punched GCL for exposure periods of between 7 weeks and 1.3 years. The first significant erosion feature (type “E”with bentonite loss narrower than 2.5 cm) was observed after 6 months of exposure. Irrecoverable erosion features (type “EE” with bentonite loss wider than 2.5 cm) were observed after 12 months of exposure. These findings highlight the need to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for timely covering of a composite liner with soil following liner installation.
Reservoir refilling enhances growth and recruitment of an endangered remnant riverine fish
Authors: Tonkin Zeb , Lyon Jarod , Ramsey David S.L. , Bond Nick R. , Hackett Graeme , Krusic-Golub Kyne , Ingram Brett A. , Balcombe Stephen R.
Published: August 2014

Rapid increases in native riverine fish populations associated with trophic upsurge immediately following reservoir construction are well documented. Repeated upsurge periods and extended benefits to populations are, however, less understood. We used sclerochronology to investigate fish growth and netting surveys to estimate recruitment and abundance of a lacustrine population of an Australian riverine fish, the Macquarie perch (Macquaria australasica) in Lake Dartmouth. Record low inflows from 1997 to 2008 caused the reservoir to shrink to its lowest volume since construction. Refilling began in 2008, reaching 99% capacity in 2013. We hypothesized that fish growth, recruitment, and abundance would increase in response to the refilling of the lake, reproducing a similar response to the initial filling period. Our findings supported this hypothesis. Macquarie perch growth, recruitment, and abundance were enhanced during the refilling of Lake Dartmouth. Growth, best explained by the effects of dam height, change in dam height, temperature (and their interactions), and recruitment, were highest during the first years of refilling when lake levels and temperatures were low. We propose one or a combination of varying levels of intraspecific competition (low during initial filling and high following population expansion) and improved riverine conditions for reproductive success as the most plausible explanation. Our results suggest extended periods of low lake levels followed by rapid inundation events are likely to enhance recruitment and population growth opportunities for this species. While reservoir construction in general impacts negatively on native fish populations, the potential to offset these impacts for conservation management purposes should be considered.
CONSTRUCTING 2m-VARIABLE BOOLEAN FUNCTIONSWITH OPTIMAL ALGEBRAIC IMMUNITY BASED ON POLAR DECOMPOSITION OF $\mathbb{F}^\ast_{2^{2m}}$
Authors: ZHENG JIA , WU BAOFENG , CHEN YUFU , LIU ZHUOJUN
Published: August 2014

Constructing 2m-variable Boolean functions with optimal algebraic immunity based on decomposition of additive group of the finite field [Formula: see text] seems to be a promising approach since Tu and Deng's work. In this paper, we consider the same problem in a new way. Based on polar decomposition of the multiplicative group of [Formula: see text], we propose a new construction of Boolean functions with optimal algebraic immunity. By a slight modification of it, we obtain a class of balanced Boolean functions achieving optimal algebraic immunity, which also have optimal algebraic degree and high nonlinearity. Computer investigations imply that this class of functions also behaves well against fast algebraic attacks.
Electrodermal Screening of Biologically Active Points for Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Tseng Ying-Jung , Hu Wen-Long , Hung I-Ling , Hsieh Chia-Jung , Hung Yu-Chiang
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this case-control study was to investigate the relationship between the electrical resistance of the skin at biologically active points (BAPs) on the main meridians and upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Electrical resistance to direct current at 20 BAPs on the fingers and toes of 100 patients with (38 men, 12 women; mean age [range], 58.20 ± 19.62 [18–83] years) and without (27 men, 23 women; 49.54 ± 12.12 [22–74] years) UGIB was measured through electrodermal screening (EDS), based on the theory of electroacupuncture according to Voll (EAV). Data were compared through analysis of variance (ANOVA), receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and logistic regression. The initial readings were lower in the UGIB group, indicating blood and energy deficiency due to UGIB. Significant differences in indicator drop values were observed at nine BAPs (p < 0.05) on the bilateral small intestine, bilateral stomach, bilateral circulation, bilateral fibroid degeneration, and right lymph meridians. The area under the ROC curve values of the BAPs on the bilateral small intestine and stomach meridians were larger than 0.5, suggesting the diagnostic accuracy of EDS for UGIB on the basis of the indicator drop of these BAPs. Logistic regression revealed that when the indicator drop of the BAP on the left stomach meridian increased by one score, the risk of UGIB increased by about 1.545–3.523 times. In conclusion, the change in the electrical resistance of the skin measured by EDS at the BAPs on the bilateral small intestine and stomach meridians provides specific information on UGIB.
Chrysin and Luteolin Alleviate Vascular Complications Associated with Insulin Resistance Mainly Through PPAR-γ Activation
Authors: El-Bassossy Hany M. , Abo-Warda Shaymaa M. , Fahmy Ahmed
Published: August 2014

Chrysin and luteolin are two flavonoids with Peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) stimulating activity. Here, we investigated the protective effect of chrysin and luteolin from vascular complications associated with insulin resistance (IR). IR was induced in rats by drinking fructose for 12 weeks while chrysin and luteolin were given for 6 weeks with or without PPAR-γ antagonist, bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE). Then, blood pressure (BP) was recorded and serum levels of glucose, insulin, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and lipids were measured. Concentration response curves for phenylephrine (PE), KCl, and acetylcholine (ACh) were obtained in thoracic aorta rings. Aortic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) generation were also studied. Chrysin and luteolin significantly alleviated systolic BP elevations caused by IR, while the co-administration of BADGE prevented chrysin alleviation. Although, neither chrysin nor luteolin affected ACh impaired vasodilatation, they both alleviated exaggerated vasoconstrictions to PE and KCl in IR animals. In addition, incubation of the aorta from IR animals with chrysin or luteolin prevented exaggerated vasoconstrictions to PE and KCl. On the other hand, co-administration of BADGE or co-incubation with GW9662, the selective PPAR-γ antagonist, prevented chrysin alleviation. Both chrysin and luteolin inhibited the developed hyperinsulinemia and increases in serum AGEs, lipids while, BADGE reduced the effect of chrysin on hyperinsulinemia and dyslipidemia. Chrysin and luteolin markedly inhibited elevated NO and ROS in IR aortae while BADGE did not change their effect on NO and ROS. In conclusion, chrysin and luteolin alleviate vascular complications associated with IR mainly through PPAR-γ dependent pathways.
Saikosaponin-D Attenuates Heat Stress-Induced Oxidative Damage in LLC-PK1Cells by Increasing the Expression of Anti-Oxidant Enzymes and HSP72
Authors: Zhang Bao-Zhen , Guo Xiao-Tong , Chen Jian-Wei , Zhao Yuan , Cong Xia , Jiang Zhong-Ling , Cao Rong-Feng , Cui Kai , Gao Shan-Song , Tian Wen-Ru
Published: August 2014

Heat stress stimulates the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause oxidative damage in the kidney. This study clarifies the mechanism by which saikosaponin-d (SSd), which is extracted from the roots of Bupleurum falcatum L, protects heat-stressed pig kidney proximal tubular (LLC-PK1) cells against oxidative damage. SSd alone is not cytotoxic at concentrations of 1 or 3 μg/mL as demonstrated by a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. To assess the effects of SSd on heat stress-induced cellular damage, LLC-PK1cells were pretreated with various concentrations of SSd, heat stressed at 42°C for 1 h, and then returned to 37°C for 9 h. DNA ladder and MTT assays demonstrated that SSd helped to prevent heat stress-induced cellular damage when compared to untreated cells. Additionally, pretreatment with SSd increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) but decreased the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in a dose-dependent manner when compared to controls. Furthermore, real-time PCR and Western blot analysis demonstrated that SSd significantly increased the expression of copper and zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD-1), CAT, GPx-1 and heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) at both the mRNA and protein levels. In conclusion, these results are the first to demonstrate that SSd ameliorates heat stress-induced oxidative damage by modulating the activity of anti-oxidant enzymes and HSP72 in LLC-PK1cells.
Recent progress on the study of the charmoniumlike states
Authors: Yuan Chang-Zheng
Published: August 2014

In this article, we review the recent experimental studies on the charmoniumlike states, mainly from the e+e- annihilation experiments BESIII, Belle, BaBar, and CLEO-c, and the hadron collider experiment LHCb. We discuss the results on the X(3872), the vector Y states [Y(4008), Y(4660), and those in e+e- → π+π-hc], and the charged charmoniumlike [Formula: see text] states.
An overview of the experimental study of quark–gluon matter in high-energy nucleus–nucleus collisions
Authors: Andronic Anton
Published: August 2014

An overview is given on the experimental study of quark–gluon matter produced in relativistic nucleus–nucleus collisions, with emphasis on recent measurements at the Large Hadron Collider.
Results from the B-factories review
Authors: Roney J. Michael
Published: August 2014

Following an introduction to the two e+e- B-factories, a sample of recent results from Belle and BABAR will be reported. This review will summarize results on the CKM unitarity angles and sides, the first direct observation of T-violation, measurements of the branching fraction of B- → τ-ντ and branching ratios of BF(B- → D(*)τ-ντ)/BF(B- → D(*)ℓ- νℓ), searches for low mass CP-odd Higgs bosons, lepton flavor violation in τ decays, and a precision measurement of the e+e- → K+K-(γ) cross-sections, and its impact on the hadronic vacuum polarization contribution to the theoretical calculation of the muon anomalous magnetic moment. Prospects for the future will be touched on.
Perturbative bottom-up approach for neutrino mass matrix in light of large θ13 and role of lightest neutrino mass
Authors: Dutta Rupak , Ch Upender , Giri Anjan K. , Sahu Narendra
Published: August 2014

We discuss the role of lightest neutrino mass (m0) in the neutrino mass matrix, defined in a flavor basis, through a bottom-up approach using the current neutrino oscillation data. We find that if m0 < 10-3 eV , then the deviation δMν in the neutrino mass matrix from a tree-level, say tribimaximal neutrino mass matrix, does not depend on m0. As a result δMν's are exactly predicted in terms of the experimentally determined quantities such as solar and atmospheric mass squared differences and the mixing angles. On the other hand for m0 ≳10-3 eV , δMν strongly depends on m0 and hence cannot be determined within the knowledge of oscillation parameters alone. In this limit, we provide an exponential parametrization for δMν for all values of m0 such that it can factorize the m0 dependency of δMν from rest of the oscillation parameters. This helps us in finding δMν as a function of the solar and atmospheric mass squared differences and the mixing angles for all values of m0. We use this information to build up a model of neutrino masses and mixings in a top-down scenario which can predict large θ13 perturbatively.
Some quantum aspects of a particle with electric quadrupole moment interacting with an electric field subject to confining potentials
Authors: Bakke K.
Published: August 2014

We discuss the arising of bound states solutions to the Schrödinger equation due to the presence of a Coulomb-type potential induced by the interaction between a moving particle possessing an electric quadrupole moment and an electric field. Besides, we study the influence of the Coulomb-type potential on the harmonic oscillator by showing a quantum effect characterized by the dependence of the angular frequency on the quantum numbers of the system. Finally, we consider the quantum particle subject to harmonic and linear confining potentials and investigate the influence of the analogue of the Coulomb potential.
New peculiarity in the temperature and size dependence of electron-lattice energy exchange in metal nanoparticles
Authors: Tomchuk Petro , Bilotsky Yevgen
Published: August 2014

The work is dedicated to the development of the electron-lattice energy exchange theory in metal particles, including dependence on particle size and electron temperature. We compared, for infinite metal, the expressions for the constants of the electron-lattice energy exchange by using the quantum-kinetic approach, with the classical kinetic approach. Both methods give the same result. But as we show, a quantum-kinetic approach in its standard form, for the metal particles smaller than the mean free path of electrons, cannot be applied, while the classical approach can be easily adjusted for such particle.

We found a new peculiarity of the electron-lattice energy exchange. This exchange essentially depends on temperature if a particle size is in the range near a certain "magic size". The change of the electron temperature can alter (around the "magic size") the number of the acoustic modes, which are involved in energy transfer. As a result, the constant of the electron–phonon interaction in nanoparticles can be either much higher or much lower than the corresponding constant for infinite metal.
Showcase of Blue Sky Catastrophes
Authors: Shilnikov Leonid Pavlovich , Shilnikov Andrey L. , Turaev Dmitry V.
Published: August 2014

Let a system of differential equations possess a saddle periodic orbit such that every orbit in its unstable manifold is homoclinic, i.e. the unstable manifold is a subset of the (global) stable manifold. We study several bifurcation cases of the breakdown of such a homoclinic connection that causes the blue sky catastrophe, as well as the onset of complex dynamics. The birth of an invariant torus and a Klein bottle is also described.
Symmetric Homoclinic Orbits at the Periodic Hamiltonian Hopf Bifurcation
Authors: Lerman Lev , Markova Anna
Published: August 2014

We prove the existence of symmetric homoclinic orbits to a saddle-focus symmetric periodic orbit that appears in a generic family of reversible three degrees of freedom Hamiltonian system due to periodic Hamiltonian Hopf bifurcation, if some coefficient A of the normal form of the fourth order is positive. If this coefficient is negative, then for the opposite side of the bifurcation parameter value, we prove the existence of symmetric homoclinic orbits to saddle invariant 2-tori.
Reversibility, Continued Fractions, and Infinite Meander Permutations of Planar Homoclinic Orbits in Linear Hyperbolic Anosov Maps
Authors: Fiedler Bernold
Published: August 2014

Meander permutations have been encountered in the context of Gauss words, singularity theory, Sturm global attractors, plane Cartesian billiards, and Temperley–Lieb algebras, among others. In this spirit, we attempt to investigate the difference of orderings of homoclinic orbits on the stable and unstable manifolds of a planar saddle. As an example, we consider reversible linear Anosov maps on the 2-torus, and their relation to continued fraction expansions.
Bernoulli's Light Ray Solution of the Brachistochrone Problem Through Hamilton's Eyes
Authors: Broer Henk W.
Published: August 2014

This article contains a review of the brachistochrone problem as initiated by Johann Bernoulli in 1696–1697. As is generally known, the cycloid forms the solutions to this problem. We follow Bernoulli's optical solution based on the Fermat principle of least time and later rephrase this in terms of Hamilton's 1828 paper. Deliberately an anachronistic style is maintained throughout. Hamilton's solution recovers the cycloid in a way that is reminiscent of how Newton's mathematical principles imply Kepler's laws.
Dynamics of Collective Decisions in a Time-Dependent Environment
Authors: Nicolis Stamatios C. , Nicolis Grégoire
Published: August 2014

The field of dynamical systems had been revolutionized by the seminal work of Leonid Shil'nikov. As a tribute to his genius we analyze in this paper the response of dynamical systems to systematic variations of a control parameter in time, using a normal form approach. Explicit expressions of the normal forms and of their parameter dependences are derived for a class of systems possessing multiple steady-states associated to collective choices between several options in group-living organisms, giving rise to bifurcations of the pitchfork and of the limit point type. Depending on the conditions, delays in the transitions between states, stabilization of metastable states, or on the contrary enhancement of the choice of the most rewarding option induced by the time dependence of the parameter are identified.
Confidence Domains in the Analysis of Noise-Induced Transition to Chaos for Goodwin Model of Business Cycles
Authors: Bashkirtseva Irina , Ryazanova Tatyana , Ryashko Lev
Published: August 2014

Stochastically forced Goodwin model of business cycles is considered. In a multistable zone, we study the phenomena of noise-induced transitions and chaotization. To clarify a probabilistic mechanism of these phenomena found numerically, we apply a semi-analytical method based on the stochastic sensitivity function technique and confidence domains. Using elaborated method, we estimate a critical value of the noise intensity corresponding to the onset of chaos.
Thermoelastoplastic Behavior of a HSLA Steel Plate Subjected to Low-Velocity Impact
Authors: Jiang Hao-Jie , Dai Hong-Liang , Zhu Kai , Fu Yi-Ming
Published: August 2014

The thermoelastoplastic behavior of a high strength low alloy (HSLA) steel plate subjected to low-velocity impact is investigated in this paper. A yield criterion related to the spherical tensor of stress is proposed to describe the mixed hardening of the orthotropic material. Based on the classical nonlinear thin plate theory, the incremental nonlinear motion equations are obtained, and are solved by the combination of finite difference method and Newmark method with iterations. To explain the contact process, a thermoelastoplastic contact criterion is developed, of which the validity has been proved. Numerical results show that the radius of the impactor, initial impact velocity, environment temperature, and the thickness of the HSLA steel plate all have great influences on the thermoelastoplastic behavior of the HSLA steel plate subjected to low-velocity impact.
Synthesis of meso-heteroatom-substituted subporphyrins
Authors: Kitano Masaaki , Shimizu Daiki , Tanaka Takayuki , Yorimitsu Hideki , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: August 2014

meso-aryloxy-, meso-ethoxy-, meso-arylsulfanyl-, meso-butylsulfanyl-, and meso-phosphoryl-substituted subporphyrins were efficiently synthesized by Pd -catalyzed substitution reactions of meso-bromosubporphyrin with heteroatom-nucleophiles.
Maple™-assisted calculations of the J-integral: a key parameter for the understanding of excited state energy transfer in porphyrins and other chromophores
Authors: Langlois Adam , Harvey Pierre D.
Published: August 2014

The spectral overlap between the emission of a donor molecule and the absorption of an acceptor molecule, quantifiable using the J-integral calculation, is a parameter of extreme importance when studying the excited state energy transfer by either the Főrster or Dexter mechanism. Despite its extreme importance in both mechanisms, it is often misinterpreted, approximated or incorrectly calculated. The calculation of the J-integral is not trivial especially when one wishes to carry out the calculation on measured spectroscopic data. A detailed description for the correct calculation of the J-integral is herein reported and presents a Maple™ assisted template that is capable of performing this calculation in the two different energy scales (nm and cm-1) to yield the value of the J-integral in given units. Specific examples using porphyrin-containing compounds are provided. This Maple™ program is flexible and can be easily adapted to the needs of a researcher. A call for the standardization of the calculation of the J-integral for the facile comparison with other overlap integrals found in the literature is made.
Lie group analysis, Hamiltonian equations and conservation laws of Born–Infeld equation
Authors: Hejazi Seyed Reza
Published: August 2014

Lie symmetry group method is applied to study the Born–Infeld equation. The symmetry group is given, and similarity solutions associated to the symmetries are obtained. Finally the Hamiltonian equations including Hamiltonian symmetry group and conservation laws are determined.
On modular pairs in posets
Authors: Shewale R. S. , Kharat V. S.
Published: August 2014

In this paper, we have introduced a new concept of a modular pair in terms of maximal elements of lower cone (L) and minimal elements of upper cone (U) in posets. The relation between our definition and the existing definitions of modular pairs in posets has been studied for different classes of posets. We succeeded in characterizing a modular pair by means of forbidden configuration in general posets. We have obtained several characterizations of modular pairs in atomistic and semi-orthogonal posets. We have also introduced ∇-relation in posets.
YET ANOTHER ACD MODEL: THE AUTOREGRESSIVE CONDITIONAL DIRECTIONAL DURATION (ACDD) MODEL
Authors: JEYASREEDHARAN NAGARATNAM , ALLEN DAVID E , YANG JOEY WENLING
Published: August 2014

This paper features a new autoregressive conditional duration (ACD) model which sits within the theoretical framework provided by the recently developed observation-driven time series models by Creal et al. (2013): the generalized autoregressive score (GAS) models. The autoregressive conditional directional duration (ACDD) model itself contains three novelties. First, durations (intra-trade intervals or waiting-times) are signed, based on whether a (positive) ask-driven trade or a (negative) bid-driven trade occurred. These signed trade-durations are known as directional durations. Second, as the resultant directional durations are no longer positive and asymmetrical but are symmetrically distributed, the familiar generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH)-like formulation of the ACD process is proposed for modeling these directional durations. Consequently, the proposed model is called the ACDD model. Third, using the alternative GARCH-like formulation, persistence or long-memory in the durations is easily addressed both via the mean and variance equations: the mean equation uses a semi-parametric fractional autoregressive (SEMIFAR) formulation and the variance equation uses a GARCH formulation. The paper demonstrates the flexibility and convenience of the generalized autoregressive score (GAS) model framework in the context of a particular ACD model specification. The model can be viewed as an alternative extension of the "asymmetric ACD model" of Bauwens and Giot (2013) which captures information related to the evolution of prices as well as the quote-durations.
The MOOC Spring
Authors: Siff Fred
Published: August 2014

Fred Siff warns us that online learning, and in particular MOOCs, are threatening to overrun not just old models of instruction but the very nature of higher education institutions themselves.
GPUs: High-performance Accelerators for Parallel Applications
Authors: Silberstein Mark
Published: August 2014

Early graphical processing units (GPUs) were designed as high compute density, fixed-function processors ideally crafted to the needs of computer graphics workloads. Today, GPUs are becoming truly first-class computing elements on par with CPUs. Programming GPUs as self-sufficient general-purpose processors is not only hypothetically desirable, but feasible and efficient in practice, opening new opportunities for integration of GPUs in complex software systems.