bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Computational Paradigm of Cellular Automata in Crowd Evacuation
Authors: Sirakoulis Georgios Ch.
Published: January 2016

During last decades, Cellular Automata (CAs) as bio-inspired parallel computational tools have been proven rather efficient and robust on modeling and simulating many different physical processes and systems and solving scientific problems, in which global behavior arises from the collective effect of simple components that interact locally. Among others of most renowned and well established CA applications, crowd evacuation and pedestrian dynamics are considered ones of the most timely and lively topics. Numerous models and computational paradigms of CAs either as standalone models or coupled with other theoretical and practical modeling approaches have been introduced in literature. All these crowd models are taking advantage of the fact that CA show evidence of a macroscopic nature with microscopic extensions, i.e. they provide adequate details in the description of human behavior and interaction, whilst they retain the computational cost at low levels. In this aspect, several CA models for crowd evacuation focusing on different modeling principles, like potential fields techniques, obstacle avoidance, follow the leader principles, grouping and queuing theory, long memory effects, etc. are presented in this paper. Moreover, having in mind the inherent parallelism of CA and their straightforward implementation in hardware, some anticipative crowd management systems based on CAs are also shown when operating on medium density crowd evacuation for indoor and outdoor environments. Real world cases and different environments were examined proving the efficiency of the proposed CA based anticipative systems. The proposed hardware implementation of the CAs-based crowd simulation models is advantageous in terms of low-cost, high-speed, compactness and portability features. Finally, robot guided evacuation with the help of CAs is also presented. The proposed framework relies on the well established CAs simulation models, while it employs a real-world evacuation implementation assisted by a mobile robotic guide, which in turn guides people towards a less congestive exit at a time.
On the Power of One-Way Automata with Quantum and Classical States
Authors: Bianchi Maria Paola , Mereghetti Carlo , Palano Beatrice
Published: January 2016

We consider the model of one-way automata with quantum and classical states (QCFAs) introduced in [28]. We show, by a direct approach, that QCFAs with isolated cut-point accept regular languages only, thus characterizing their computational power.

Concerning descriptional power, we quickly overview a size lower bound for QCFAs accepting regular languages, and address its optimality. Then, we explicitly build QCFAs accepting the word quotients and inverse homomorphic images of languages accepted by given QCFAs with isolated cut-point, maintaining the same cut-point, isolation, and only polynomially increasing the size.
Bounded Prefix-Suffix Duplication: Language Theoretic and Algorithmic Results
Authors: Dumitran Marius , Gil Javier , Manea Florin , Mitrana Victor
Published: January 2016

We consider a restricted variant of the prefix-suffix duplication operation, called bounded prefix-suffix duplication. It consists in the iterative duplication of a length-bounded prefix or suffix of a given word. We give a sufficient condition for the closure of a class of languages under bounded prefix-suffix duplication. Consequently, we get that the class of regular languages is closed under bounded prefix-suffix duplication; furthermore, we propose an algorithm which decides whether a regular language is a finite k-prefix-suffix duplication language. An efficient algorithm solving the membership problem for the k-prefix-suffix duplication of a language is also presented. Finally, we define the k-prefix-suffix duplication distance between two words, extend it to languages and show how it can be computed for regular languages.
On the Ambiguity and Finite-Valuedness Problems in Acceptors and Transducers
Authors: Ibarra Oscar H.
Published: January 2016

We prove new decidability and undecidability results concerning the finite-ambiguity problem in acceptors, and the finite-valuedness and lossiness problems in transducers. The acceptors and transducers we study have infinite memory.
The Power of Weighted Regularity-Preserving Multi Bottom-Up Tree Transducers
Authors: Maletti Andreas
Published: January 2016

The expressive power of regularity-preserving [Formula: see text]-free weighted linear multi bottom-up tree transducers is investigated. These models have very attractive theoretical and algorithmic properties, but (especially in the weighted setting) their expressive power is not well understood. Despite the regularity-preserving restriction, their power still exceeds that of composition chains of [Formula: see text]-free weighted linear extended top-down tree transducers with regular look-ahead. The latter devices are a natural super-class of weighted synchronous tree substitution grammars, which are commonly used in syntax-based statistical machine translation. In particular, the linguistically motivated discontinuous transformation of topicalization can be modeled by such multi bottom-up tree transducers, whereas the mentioned composition chains cannot implement it. On the negative side, the inverse of topicalization cannot be implemented by any such multi bottom-up tree transducer, which confirms their bottom-up nature (and non-closure under inverses). An interesting, promising, and widely applicable proof technique is used to prove these statements.
A Voltage-Mode Universal Biquadratic Filter Using DDCCTA
Authors: Phatsornsiri Punnavich , Kumngern Montree , Lamun Panit
Published: January 2016

This paper presents a new voltage-mode (VM) universal biquadratic filter using differential difference current conveyor transconductance amplifier (DDCCTA) as an active element. The circuit employs one DDCCTA, two floating resistors and two floating capacitors which can realize five biquadratic filters, namely low-pass (LP), band-pass (BP), band-stop (BS), high-pass (HP) and all-pass (AP) into one single topology. For realizing these filtering functions, passive component-matching conditions, inverting-type and/or doubling-input signal requirements and changing circuit configuration are absent. The natural angular frequency and quality factor of the filter can be orthogonally controlled deliberately. The VM biquadratic filter using grounded passive components with high-input and low-output impedances can be obtained by adding an additional DDCCTA or differential difference current conveyor (DDCC). The simulation results with 0.5[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m CMOS process from MIETEC are given to confirm the theoretical predictions and the experimental results are also included to verify the workability of the proposed structure.
An Extended-Counting Incremental Sigma–Delta ADC with Hardware-Reuse Technique
Authors: Zeng Xinji , Gao Jing , Yang Liu , Xu Jiangtao
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the design and implementation of an extended-counting incremental sigma–delta ADC (IDC) with hardware-reuse technique. The proposed ADC architecture is a cascaded configuration of a second-order IDC and a two-stage cyclic ADC. The operation of the ADC consists of the “coarse phase” and the “fine phase”. In the “coarse phase”, the circuit works as an IDC to achieve the most significant bits (MSBs) and produce the residue voltage. Then in the “fine phase”, it is reused and changed to work as a cyclic ADC to quantize the residue voltage and achieve the least significant bits (LSBs). Eventual digital output is achieved by combining the two parts together. The utilization of extended-counting technique significantly reduces the conversion time and increases the conversion rate, and the hardware-reuse technique removes the demand for additional circuit area. The ADC is designed in 0.5[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m CMOS process, which has a conversion rate of 43.48[Formula: see text]kS/s with oversampling ratio (OSR) of 23 and achieves 84.83[Formula: see text]dB SNDR and 13.799-bit ENOB. It consumes 2.4[Formula: see text]mW with a 5[Formula: see text]V voltage supply, and the FOM is 3.87[Formula: see text]pJ/step.
Representative Scan Architecture
Authors: Zhang Ling , Kuang Jishun
Published: January 2016

Test power is one of the most challenges faced by Integrated Circuits. The author proposes a general scan chain architecture called Representative Scan (RS). It transforms the scan cells of conventional scan chain or sub-chain into circular shift registers and a representative flip-flop is chosen for each circular shift register, these representative flip-flops are connected serially to setup into the RS architecture. Thus, test data shifting path is shortened, then the switching activity is reduced in the shifting operates. The proposed scan architecture has the similar test power with the multiple scan chain, and only needs same test pins with single scan chain without added test pins. The experimental results show that the proposed scan architecture achieves very low shifting power. For benchmark circuits of ISCAS89, the shifting power of the best architecture of RS is only 0.53%–13.59% of the conventional scan. Especially for S35932, the shifting power on mintest test set is only 0.53% of the corresponding conventional scan. Compared with the conventional scan, the RS only needs to add a multiplexer for each scan cells, and the hardware cost is not high.
Self-Tuning OTA-C Notch Filter with Constant Q-Factor
Authors: Jovanović Goran , Mitić Darko , Stojčev Mile , Antić Dragan
Published: January 2016

This paper describes the design of a self-tuning OTA-C notch filter (NF), based on a phase control loop concept. The phases of filter input and output signals are compared and the phase error is used to generate the control voltage, which adjusts the transconductances of operational transconductance amplifiers (OTAs) and, consequently, tunes the NF center frequency without quality factor variation. The proposed solution is robust to filter parameter variations. The filter is implemented in 0.13[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m SiGe BiCMOS technology. Under the typical circuit operating conditions, the center frequency tuning is within the range from 70[Formula: see text]MHz up to 150[Formula: see text]MHz, with tuning error less than 1%. The power consumption is less than 3.6[Formula: see text]mW, the 1[Formula: see text]dB gain compression point is [Formula: see text]2.5[Formula: see text]dBm, the input (IIP3) and output (OIP3) intercept points are 3.47 and 9.07[Formula: see text]dBm, respectively, and the total filter effective noise voltage is 4.35[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Vrms. The filter structure is suitable for complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) implementation.
Pointlike reducibility of pseudovarieties of the form V ∗D
Authors: Costa José Carlos , Nogueira Conceição , Teixeira Maria Lurdes
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we investigate the reducibility property of semidirect products of the form [Formula: see text] relatively to (pointlike) systems of equations of the form [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] d̃enotes the pseudovariety of definite semigroups. We establish a connection between pointlike reducibility of [Formula: see text] and the pointlike reducibility of the pseudovariety [Formula: see text]. In particular, for the canonical signature [Formula: see text] consisting of the multiplication and the [Formula: see text]-power, we show that [Formula: see text] is pointlike [Formula: see text]-reducible when [Formula: see text] is pointlike [Formula: see text]-reducible.
Alexander–Conway polynomial state model and link homology
Authors: Kauffman Louis H. , Silvero Marithania
Published: January 2016

This paper shows how the Formal Knot Theory state model for the Alexander–Conway polynomial is related to Knot Floer Homology. In particular, we prove a parity result about the states in this model that clarifies certain relationships of the model with Knot Floer Homology.
Hopfological algebra and categorification at a root of unity: The first steps
Authors: Khovanov Mikhail
Published: January 2016

Any finite-dimensional Hopf algebra [Formula: see text] is Frobenius and the stable category of [Formula: see text]-modules is triangulated monoidal. To [Formula: see text]-comodule algebras we assign triangulated module-categories over the stable category of [Formula: see text]-modules. These module-categories are generalizations of homotopy and derived categories of modules over a differential graded algebra. We expect that, for suitable [Formula: see text], our construction could be a starting point in the program of categorifying quantum invariants of 3-manifolds.
On some groups related with Fox–Artin wild arcs
Authors: Montesinos-Amilibia José María
Published: January 2016

Two different topics are shown to be related. Some group presentations generalizing certain symmetric presentations found by Coxeter, and the ideal compactification of the sets obtained by lifting knots in 3-manifolds to their universal covering spaces.
Concentration-compactness and extremal problems for a weighted Trudinger–Moser inequality
Authors: do Ó João Marcos , de Oliveira José Francisco
Published: January 2016

We discuss critical and subcritical general maximizing problems associated with a Trudinger–Moser type inequality for a class of weighted Sobolev spaces. The key of our approach relies on a concentration-compactness type result and sharp estimates for the concentration level of a Moser-type functional. In particular, we give an explicit concentrating sequence that is maximizing for the maximal concentration level. As an application, we prove the existence of a nontrivial solution for a family of quasilinear elliptic equations with critical growth.
On representation theory of total (co)integrals
Authors: Hassanzadeh Mohammad
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we show that total integrals and cointegrals are new sources of stable anti-Yetter–Drinfeld modules. We explicitly show that how special types of total (co)integrals can be used to provide both (stable) anti Yetter–Drinfeld and Yetter–Drinfeld modules. We use these modules to classify total (co)integrals and (cleft) Hopf Galois (co)extensions of the Connes–Moscovici Hopf algebra, and some examples of universal enveloping algebra and polynomial algebra.
A note on normal complement problem
Authors: Kaur K. , Khan M. , Chatterjee T.
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we study the normal complement problem on semisimple group algebras and modular group algebras [Formula: see text] over a field [Formula: see text] of positive characteristic. We provide an infinite class of abelian groups [Formula: see text] and Galois fields [Formula: see text] that have normal complement in the unit group [Formula: see text] for semisimple group algebras [Formula: see text]. For metacyclic group [Formula: see text] of order [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] are distinct primes, we prove that [Formula: see text] does not have normal complement in [Formula: see text] for finite semisimple group algebra [Formula: see text]. Finally, we study the normal complement problem for modular group algebras over field of characteristic 2.
Ab-initio HF and density functional theory investigations on the synthesis mechanism, conformational stability, molecular structure and UV spectrum of N’-Formylkynurenine
Authors: Omri Nabil , Yahyaoui Mohammed , Banani Ridha , Messaoudi Sabri , Moussa Fathi , Abderrabba Manef
Published: January 2016

Tryptophan methyl ester (Trp-ME) degrades with singlet oxygen and produce compounds which are photosensitizers and may react to form other derivatives such as N’-Formylkynurénine (NFK) and kynurenine, which are the final products of this oxidation. In order to study and optimize the molecular structure of NFK and determine its different thermodynamic properties, we performed a conformational analysis by DFT/B3LYP method with 3-21G basis set. Six most stable conformations were observed through the analysis of the potential energy surfaces, obtained by a relaxed scan of the dihedral angles.

The most stable form of NFK has been registered for D[Formula: see text], D[Formula: see text], D[Formula: see text], D[Formula: see text], D[Formula: see text], and D[Formula: see text]. The study was conducted by HF and DFT/B3LYP with 6-31G(d,p), 6-3[Formula: see text](d,p) and 6-31[Formula: see text](d,p) basis sets, on the optimized geometry of the most stable conformation and its thermodynamic and orbital properties. Two absorption bands were recorded at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm and at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm and were also determined by TD-DFT method. They showed good agreement with the UV experimental spectrum which confirms that it is a powerful tool to determine the dynamic and static properties of molecules. The surface of the electrostatic potential (ESP) of the NFK was also analyzed.
Two general examples of Weil algebras having the group of automorphisms connected
Authors: Ivičič Vojtěch , Kureš Miroslav
Published: January 2016

The paper is devoted to the algebraic background of Weil contact elements: in particular, we investigate an eventual absence of orientation reversing maps by the description of Weil algebras having their group of automorphisms with only one connected component.
A Conductive Copolymer Based on Graphene Oxide and Poly (amidoxime-pyrrole) for Adsorption of Uranium (VI)
Authors: Qin Hongyi , Jin Yinhua , Gong Tao , Cho Yujin , Ahn Chisung , Shin Cheolmin , Lee Changgu , Kim Taesung
Published: January 2016

A novel conducting copolymer based on amidoxime groups, polypyrrole and graphene oxide was synthesized by in situ copolymerization by usin g two monomers. The monomer, amidoxime-pyrrole, was synthesized by amidoximation of 1-(2-cyanoethyl) pyrrole. The other monomer, GO-pyrrole, was prepared via esterification between –COOH of GO and –NH2 of 1-(3-aminopropyl) pyrrole. The conductive ability of the copolymer was based on conductive [Formula: see text]-conjugated system of polypyrrole backbone. The copolymer was able to be used as an effective sorption material for the preconcentration and recovery of uranium. The maximum of adsorption capacity for uranyl ion is as high as 149.57[Formula: see text]mg/g.
A neural network-based electromyography motion classifier for upper limb activities
Authors: Veer Karan , Sharma Tanu , Agarwal Ravinder
Published: January 2016

The objective of the work is to investigate the classification of different movements based on the surface electromyogram (SEMG) pattern recognition method. The testing was conducted for four arm movements using several experiments with artificial neural network classification scheme. Six time domain features were extracted and consequently classification was implemented using back propagation neural classifier (BPNC). Further, the realization of projected network was verified using cross validation (CV) process; hence ANOVA algorithm was carried out. Performance of the network is analyzed by considering mean square error (MSE) value. A comparison was performed between the extracted features and back propagation network results reported in the literature. The concurrent result indicates the significance of proposed network with classification accuracy (CA) of 100% recorded from two channels, while analysis of variance technique helps in investigating the effectiveness of classified signal for recognition tasks.
A note on cyclic codes over ℤ4 + uℤ4
Authors: Bandi Rama Krishna , Bhaintwal Maheshanand
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we have studied cyclic codes over the ring [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. We have provided the general form of the generators of a cyclic code over [Formula: see text] and obtained a minimal spanning set for such codes and determined their ranks. We have determined a necessary condition and a sufficient condition for cyclic codes over [Formula: see text] to be [Formula: see text]-free. For [Formula: see text], we have shown that [Formula: see text] is a local ring, and the complete ideal structure of [Formula: see text] is determined. Some examples are presented.
Ferulic Acid against Cyclophosphamide‐Induced Heart Toxicity in Mice by Inhibiting NF‐κB Pathway
Authors: Song Yafan , Zhang Chunyan , Wang Congxia , Zhao Ling , Wang Zheng , Dai Zhijun , Lin Shuai , Kang Huafeng , Ma Xiaobin
Published: January 2016

The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the protective effects of ferulic acid (FA) against cyclophosphamide‐ (CTX‐) induced changes in mice. Forty‐eight male ICR mice were divided into four groups. Control group was intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected with 200 μL of phosphate buffer saline (PBS). Model group was intraperitoneally injected with a single dose of CTX (200 mg/kg). FA (50 mg/kg) and FA (100 mg/kg) groups were intraperitoneally injected with a single dose of CTX (200 mg/kg) followed by the intragastric treatment with FA (50, 100 mg/kg) for 7 consecutive days. After 12 d, the mice were sacrificed to analyze the hematological, biochemical, histological parameters and mechanism research. The results indicated that FA significantly decreased the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) in CTX‐injected mice. In addition, FA effectively reduced the total numbers of white blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin content. FA also obviously attenuated the histological changes of the heart tissues caused by CTX. Moreover, Western blot demonstrated that FA inhibited the phosphorylations of NF‐κB signaling pathway in CTX‐stimulated cardiac tissues. In conclusion, FA might be considered as an effective agent in the amelioration of the heart toxicity resulting from CTX treatment.
Inhibition of Receptor Interacting Protein Kinases Attenuates Cardiomyocyte Hypertrophy Induced by Palmitic Acid
Authors: Zhao Mingyue , Lu Lihui , Lei Song , Chai Hua , Wu Siyuan , Tang Xiaoju , Bao Qinxue , Chen Li , Wu Wenchao , Liu Xiaojing
Published: January 2016

Palmitic acid (PA) is known to cause cardiomyocyte dysfunction. Cardiac hypertrophy is one of the important pathological features of PA‐induced lipotoxicity, but the mechanism by which PA induces cardiomyocyte hypertrophy is still unclear. Therefore, our study was to test whether necroptosis, a receptor interacting protein kinase 1 and 3 (RIPK1 and RIPK3‐) dependent programmed necrosis, was involved in the PA‐induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. We used the PA‐treated primary neonatal rat cardiac myocytes (NCMs) or H9c2 cells to study lipotoxicity. Our results demonstrated that cardiomyocyte hypertrophy was induced by PA treatment, determined by upregulation of hypertrophic marker genes and cell surface area enlargement. Upon PA treatment, the expression of RIPK1 and RIPK3 was increased. Pretreatment with the RIPK1 inhibitor necrostatin‐1 (Nec‐1), the PA‐induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, was attenuated. Knockdown of RIPK1 or RIPK3 by siRNA suppressed the PA‐induced myocardial hypertrophy. Moreover, a crosstalk between necroptosis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was observed in PA‐treated cardiomyocytes. Inhibition of RIPK1 with Nec‐1, phosphorylation level of AKT (Ser473), and mTOR (Ser2481) was significantly reduced in PA‐treated cardiomyocytes. In conclusion, RIPKs‐dependent necroptosis might be crucial in PA‐induced myocardial hypertrophy. Activation of mTOR may mediate the effect of necroptosis in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy induced by PA.
Replica Node Detection Using Enhanced Single Hop Detection with Clonal Selection Algorithm in Mobile Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Sindhuja L. S. , Padmavathi G.
Published: January 2016

Security of Mobile Wireless Sensor Networks is a vital challenge as the sensor nodes are deployed in unattended environment and they are prone to various attacks. One among them is the node replication attack. In this, the physically insecure nodes are acquired by the adversary to clone them by having the same identity of the captured node, and the adversary deploys an unpredictable number of replicas throughout the network. Hence replica node detection is an important challenge in Mobile Wireless Sensor Networks. Various replica node detection techniques have been proposed to detect these replica nodes. These methods incur control overheads and the detection accuracy is low when the replica is selected as a witness node. This paper proposes to solve these issues by enhancing the Single Hop Detection (SHD) method using the Clonal Selection algorithm to detect the clones by selecting the appropriate witness nodes. The advantages of the proposed method include (i) increase in the detection ratio, (ii) decrease in the control overhead, and (iii) increase in throughput. The performance of the proposed work is measured using detection ratio, false detection ratio, packet delivery ratio, average delay, control overheads, and throughput. The implementation is done using ns-2 to exhibit the actuality of the proposed work.
Sika Deer Antler Collagen Type I‐Accelerated Osteogenesis in Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells via the Smad Pathway
Authors: Li Na , Zhang Min , Drummen Gregor P. C. , Zhao Yu , Tan Yin Fen , Luo Su , Qu Xiao Bo
Published: January 2016

Deer antler preparations have been used to strengthen bones for centuries. It is particularly rich in collagen type I. This study aimed to unravel part of the purported bioremedial effect of Sika deer antler collagen type I (SDA‐Col I) on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. The results suggest that SDA‐Col I might be used to promote and regulate osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. SDA‐Col I might potentially provide the basis for novel therapeutic strategies in the treatment of bone injury and/or in scaffolds for bone replacement strategies. Finally, isolation of SDA‐Col I from deer antler represents a renewable, green, and uncomplicated way to obtain a biomedically valuable therapeutic.
Effects of Polyphenol, Measured by a Biomarker of Total Polyphenols in Urine, on Cardiovascular Risk Factors After a Long‐Term Follow‐Up in the PREDIMED Study
Authors: Guo Xiaohui , Tresserra-Rimbau Anna , Estruch Ramón , Martínez-González Miguel A. , Medina-Remón Alexander , Castañer Olga , Corella Dolores , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Lamuela-Raventós Rosa M.
Published: January 2016

Several epidemiological studies have shown an inverse association between the consumption of polyphenol‐rich foods and risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, accuracy and reliability of these studies may be increased using urinary total polyphenol excretion (TPE) as a biomarker for total polyphenol intake. Our aim was to assess if antioxidant activity, measured by a Folin‐Ciocalteu assay in urine, is correlated with an improvement in cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure and serum glucose, cholesterol, HDL‐cholesterol, LDL‐cholesterol, and triglyceride concentrations) in an elderly population at high risk. A longitudinal study was performed with 573 participants (aged 67.3 ± 5.9) from the PREDIMED study (ISRCTN35739639). We used Folin‐Ciocalteu method to determine TPE in urine samples, assisting with solid phase extraction. Participants were categorized into three groups according to changes in TPE. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess relationships between TPE and clinical cardiovascular risk factors, adjusting for potential confounders. After a 5‐year follow‐up, significant inverse correlations were observed between changes in TPE and plasma triglyceride concentration (β = −8.563; P = 0.007), glucose concentration (β = −4.164; P = 0.036), and diastolic blood pressure (β = −1.316; P = 0.013). Our results suggest that the consumption of more polyphenols, measured as TPE in urine, could exert a protective effect against some cardiovascular risk factors.
Effects of Patterned Sound Deprivation on Short- and Long-Term Plasticity in the Rat Thalamocortical Auditory SystemIn Vivo
Authors: Soutar Chloe N. , Rosen Laura G. , Rodier Simon G. , Dringenberg Hans C.
Published: January 2016

Postnatal sensory experience plays a significant role in the maturation and synaptic stabilization of sensory cortices, such as the primary auditory cortex (A1). Here, we examined the effects of patterned sound deprivation (by rearing in continuous white noise, WN) during early postnatal life on short- and long-term plasticity of adult male rats using anin vivopreparation (urethane anesthesia). Relative to age-matched control animals reared under unaltered sound conditions, rats raised in WN (from postnatal day 5 to 50–60) showed greater levels of long-term potentiation (LTP) of field potentials in A1 induced by theta-burst stimulation (TBS) of the medial geniculate nucleus (MGN). In contrast, analyses of short-term plasticity using paired-pulse stimulation (interstimulus intervals of 25–1000 ms) did not reveal any significant effects of WN rearing. However, LTP induction resulted in a significant enhancement of paired-pulse depression (PPD) for both rearing conditions.We conclude that patterned sound deprivation during early postnatal life results in the maintenance of heightened, juvenile-like long-term plasticity (LTP) into adulthood. Further, the enhanced PPD following LTP induction provides novel evidence that presynaptic mechanisms contribute to thalamocortical LTP in A1 underin vivoconditions.
High Current Density Chronopotentiometric Electrosynthesis and SEM Characterization of Hexanethiol-Monolayer-Protected Silver Planar Nanotriangles (Ag@C6SH)
Authors: Vatan Khah Dowlat Sara DJafar , Rouhollahi Ahmad , Pourmortazavi Seied Mahdi , Shamsipur Mojtaba
Published: January 2016

This work reports for the first time electrosynthesis of hexanethiol capped silver nanotriangles cores (Ag@C6SH NCs) by a rapid, clean, and simple Double Pulse Chronopotentiometric (DCP) method in nonaqueous media, using a Taguchi orthogonal arrayL8design to identify the optimized experimental conditions. It was found that the size and shape of the product could be tuned by the current density, electrolysis time, electrode distance, and amount of NaBH4% used. The Ag@C6SH NCs in different shapes and sizes (in the range of 30 to 44 nm as an average estimation) were synthesized, under different experimental conditions. Finally, the as-prepared nanoclusters electrosynthesized at optimized conditions were characterized by SEM, XRD, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The average particle size of the triangular/pyramidal shape (Ag@C6SH NCs), obtained under optimized experimental conditions, was30.5±2.0 nm but the majority of nanoparticles in TC3SEM are so much finer.
Polydatin Attenuates H2O2‐Induced Oxidative Stress via PKC Pathway
Authors: Qiao Huilian , Chen Hao , Dong Yuhang , Ma He , Zhao Guangchao , Tang Fakuan , Li Zhen
Published: January 2016

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction, which is found to precede the development of diverse cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The aim of this study was to observe the protective effects of PD against H2O2‐induced oxidative stress injury (OSI) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and the possible mechanism of PD in OSI treatment. HUVECs were subjected to H2O2 in the absence or presence of PD. It turned out that PD improved cell viability and adhesive and migratory abilities, inhibited the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and elevated the content of glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). TUNEL, fluorometric assays, and Western blotting showed that OSI upregulated the apoptosis ratio, the activity of caspase‐3 and the level of proapoptotic protein Bax and decreased the level of antiapoptotic protein Bcl‐2. However, PD treatment partially reversed these damage effects and Protein Kinase C (PKC) activation by thymeleatoxin (THX) in turn eliminated the antiapoptotic effect of PD. Furthermore, PD attenuated the H2O2‐induced phosphorylation of PKCs α and δ and increased the phosphorylation of PKC ε. Our results indicated that PD might exert protective effects against OSI through various interactions with PKC pathway.
Design and Implementation of Automatic Wheat Mower Based on Smart Sensor Fed by a Photovoltaic
Authors: Esen Hikmet , Kapicioglu Abdullah , Ozsolak Onur
Published: January 2016

The biggest problems of our time are environmental pollution and the reduction of fossil fuel resources. In recent years, photovoltaic (PV) has started to be used efficiently in order to produce electrical energy from solar energy throughout the world. In this study, a wheat mover machine taking its energy with PV technology transformation from the sun was designed supported by smart sensors. The designed vehicle was tested in two wheat fields in Sivas in Turkey. It was seen that daily average sunshine rates were not lower than 700 Watt/m2during the testing dates and time. The amounts of electrical charge used to mow 5 m2and 50 m2areas are obtained as 500 mAh and 3395 mAh, respectively. Also maximum power is calculated from used PV panel as 26.15 Watt during the day of the experiments. The range of solar radiation intensity is found 4.5 kWh/m2/day at the studied kWh which was$0.140 USD on the date of November 2015. This system is 94.5% more economic than conventional mowers over an area of 1000 m2.
Application of Chaos Theory in the Prediction of Motorised Traffic Flows on Urban Networks
Authors: Adewumi Aderemi , Kagamba Jimmy , Alochukwu Alex
Published: January 2016

In recent times, urban road networks are faced with severe congestion problems as a result of the accelerating demand for mobility. One of the ways to mitigate the congestion problems on urban traffic road network is by predicting the traffic flow pattern. Accurate prediction of the dynamics of a highly complex system such as traffic flow requires a robust methodology. An approach for predicting Motorised Traffic Flow on Urban Road Networks based on Chaos Theory is presented in this paper. Nonlinear time series modeling techniques were used for the analysis of the traffic flow prediction with emphasis on the technique of computation of the Largest Lyapunov Exponent to aid in the prediction of traffic flow. The study concludes that algorithms based on the computation of the Lyapunov time seem promising as regards facilitating the control of congestion because of the technique’s effectiveness in predicting the dynamics of complex systems especially traffic flow.
A Modified Sparse Representation Method for Facial Expression Recognition
Authors: Wang Wei , Xu LiHong
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we carry on research on a facial expression recognition method, which is based on modified sparse representation recognition (MSRR) method. On the first stage, we use Haar-like+LPP to extract feature and reduce dimension. On the second stage, we adopt LC-K-SVD (Label Consistent K-SVD) method to train the dictionary, instead of adopting directly the dictionary from samples, and add block dictionary training into the training process. On the third stage, stOMP (stagewise orthogonal matching pursuit) method is used to speed up the convergence of OMP (orthogonal matching pursuit). Besides, a dynamic regularization factor is added to iteration process to suppress noises and enhance accuracy. We verify the proposed method from the aspect of training samples, dimension, feature extraction and dimension reduction methods and noises in self-built database and Japan’s JAFFE and CMU’s CK database. Further, we compare this sparse method with classic SVM and RVM and analyze the recognition effect and time efficiency. The result of simulation experiment has shown that the coefficient of MSRR method contains classifying information, which is capable of improving the computing speed and achieving a satisfying recognition result.
Protonation and Solvation Thermodynamics of Some Naphthol Derivatives in KCl Aqueous Solution of Different Ionic Strengths
Authors: El-Dossoki Farid I.
Published: January 2016

The acid-base properties of naphthalen-1-ol (L1), naphthalene-1,5-diol (L2), and 4-amino-3-hydroxynaphthalene-1-sulphonic acid (L3) were characterized from pH-metric measurements in pure water and in different concentrations (0–4 mol kg−1) of aqueous KCl solutions at the temperature range ofT= (293.15 to 213.15) K at 5 K intervals. The results reveal that naphthalen-1-ol and naphthalene-1,5-diol molecules have two ionisable protons (of the hydroxyl groups) while 4-amino-3-hydroxynaphthalene-1-sulphonic acid has three ionisable protons (hydrogen ion of the hydroxyl group, SO3H, andNH3+). Modeling of the data was done by applying Debye-Hückel model. The protonation and the solvation processes of all studied ligands are spontaneous and endothermic processes. Also the solubilities of naphthalen-1-ol, naphthalene-1,5-diol, and 4-amino-3-hydroxynaphthalene-1-sulphonic acid were determined. The data were analyzed using Setschenow equation and the values of Setschenow coefficients (km) were determined. From the solubility data, the activity coefficients were obtained. The values of the total solubilities (ST) for naphthalen-1-ol and naphthalene-1,5-diol were found equal to the values of their neutral species (S0). On the other hand, the total solubility for 4-amino-3-hydroxynaphthalene-1-sulphonic acid is different from that of its neutral species. The results also indicate solubility decrease in pure water from L1-L2-L3.
Emerging Roles of BAI Adhesion-GPCRs in Synapse Development and Plasticity
Authors: Duman Joseph G. , Tu Yen-Kuei , Tolias Kimberley F.
Published: January 2016

Synapses mediate communication between neurons and enable the brain to change in response to experience, which is essential for learning and memory. The sites of most excitatory synapses in the brain, dendritic spines, undergo rapid remodeling that is important for neural circuit formation and synaptic plasticity. Abnormalities in synapse and spine formation and plasticity are associated with a broad range of brain disorders, including intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and schizophrenia. Thus, elucidating the mechanisms that regulate these neuronal processes is critical for understanding brain function and disease. The brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor (BAI) subfamily of adhesion G-protein-coupled receptors (adhesion-GPCRs) has recently emerged as central regulators of synapse development and plasticity. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge regarding the roles of BAIs at synapses, highlighting their regulation, downstream signaling, and physiological functions, while noting the roles of other adhesion-GPCRs at synapses. We will also discuss the relevance of BAIs in various neurological and psychiatric disorders and consider their potential importance as pharmacological targets in the treatment of these diseases.
Findings of a Four-Year Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Comparing Two-Piece and One-Piece Zirconia Abutments Supporting Single Prosthetic Restorations in Maxillary Anterior Region
Authors: Paolantoni Guerino , Marenzi Gaetano , Blasi Andrea , Mignogna Jolanda , Sammartino Gilberto
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this randomized controlled study is to investigate the clinical results obtained over four years and incidence of complications associated withone- versustwo-piece custom made zirconia anchorages, in single tooth implant-supported restorations of the maxillary anterior region. Sixty-five patients, with a total of 74 missing maxillary teeth, were selected in the period from February 2007 to July 2010. Two different ways of custom made zirconia abutment and final prosthetic restoration were evaluated: a standard zirconia abutment associated with a pressed layer of lithium disilicate with an all-ceramic cemented restoration versus one-piece restoration with the facing porcelain fired and pressed straight to the custom made zirconia abutment. In 29 cases, the restoration consisted of an all-ceramic restoration for cementation (two pieces); in 45 cases the restoration was a screw-retained restoration (one piece). Three all-ceramic restorations broke during the observation time. Two one-piece restorations fractured after 26 months. At follow-up examination there were no significant differences between one-piece and two-piece groups regarding the PI, BI, and MBL. Awaiting studies with longer follow-up times, a careful conclusion is that zirconia anchorages for single-implant restorations seem to demonstrate good short-term technical and biological results.
A Preliminary Comparative Assessment of the Role of CD8+ T Cells in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Brenu Ekua W. , Broadley Simon , Nguyen Thao , Johnston Samantha , Ramos Sandra , Staines Don , Marshall-Gradisnik Sonya
Published: January 2016

Background. CD8+ T cells have putative roles in the regulation of adaptive immune responses during infection. The purpose of this paper is to compare the status of CD8+ T cells in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME).Methods. This preliminary investigation comprised 23 CFS/ME patients, 11 untreated MS patients, and 30 nonfatigued controls. Whole blood samples were collected from participants, stained with monoclonal antibodies, and analysed on the flow cytometer. Using the following CD markers, CD27 and CD45RA (CD45 exon isoform 4), CD8+ T cells were divided into naïve, central memory (CM), effector memory CD45RA− (EM), and effector memory CD45RA+ (EMRA) cells.Results. Surface expressions of BTLA, CD127, and CD49/CD29 were increased on subsets of CD8+ T cells from MS patients. In the CFS/ME patients CD127 was significantly decreased on all subsets of CD8+ T cells in comparison to the nonfatigued controls. PSGL-1 was significantly reduced in the CFS/ME patients in comparison to the nonfatigued controls.Conclusions. The results suggest significant deficits in the expression of receptors and adhesion molecules on subsets of CD8+ T cells in both MS and CFS/ME patients. These deficits reported may contribute to the pathogenesis of these diseases. However, larger sample size is warranted to confirm and support these encouraging preliminary findings.
South Vietnamese Rural Mothers’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice in Child Health Care
Authors: Thac Dinh , Pedersen Freddy Karup , Thuong Tang Chi , Lien Le Bich , Ngoc Anh Nguyen Thi , Phuc Nguyen Ngoc
Published: January 2016

A study of 600 rural under-five mothers’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) in child care was performed in 4 southern provinces of Vietnam. The mothers were randomly selected and interviewed about sociodemographic factors, health seeking behaviour, and practice of home care of children and neonates. 93.2% of the mothers were literate and well-educated, which has been shown to be important for child health care. 98.5% were married suggesting a stable family, which is also of importance for child health. Only 17.3% had more than 2 children in their family. The mother was the main caretaker in 77.7% of the families. Only 1% would use quacks as their first health contact, but 25.2% would use a private clinic, which therefore eases the burden on the government system. Nearly 69% had given birth in a hospital, 27% in a commune health station, and only 2.7% at home without qualified assistance. 89% were giving exclusive breast feeding at 6 months, much more frequent than in the cities. The majority of the mothers could follow IMCI guideline for home care, although 25.2% did not deal correctly with cough and 38.7% did not deal correctly with diarrhoea. Standard information about Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses (IMCI) based home care is still needed.
In VitroAntimicrobial Activity of Essential Oil ofThymus schimperi,Matricaria chamomilla,Eucalyptus globulus, andRosmarinus officinalis
Authors: Mekonnen Awol , Yitayew Berhanu , Tesema Alemnesh , Taddese Solomon
Published: January 2016

In this study, thein vitroantimicrobial activities of four plant essential oils (T. schimperi,E. globulus,R. officinalis, andM. Chamomilla) were evaluated against bacteria and fungi. The studies were carried out using agar diffusion method for screening the most effective essential oils and agar dilution to determine minimum inhibitory concentration of the essential oils. Results of this study revealed that essential oils ofT. schimperi,E. globulus, andR. officinaliswere active against bacteria and some fungi. The antimicrobial effect ofM. chamomillawas found to be weaker and did not show any antimicrobial activity. The minimum inhibitory concentration values ofT. schimperiwere<15.75 mg/mL for most of the bacteria and fungi used in this study. The minimum inhibitory concentration values of the other essential oils were in the range of 15.75–36.33 mg/mL against tested bacteria. This study highlighted the antimicrobial activity of the essential oil ofE. globulus,M. chamomilla,T. Schimperi, andR. officinalis. The results indicated thatT. schimperihave shown strong antimicrobial activity which could be potential candidates for preparation of antimicrobial drug preparation.
Exosomes in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type I Pathogenesis: Threat or Opportunity?
Authors: Teow Sin-Yeang , Nordin Alif Che , Ali Syed A. , Khoo Alan Soo-Beng
Published: January 2016

Nanometre-sized vesicles, also known as exosomes, are derived from endosomes of diverse cell types and present in multiple biological fluids. Depending on their cellular origins, the membrane-bound exosomes packed a variety of functional proteins and RNA species. These microvesicles are secreted into the extracellular space to facilitate intercellular communication. Collective findings demonstrated that exosomes from HIV-infected subjects share many commonalities with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type I (HIV-1) particles in terms of proteomics and lipid profiles. These observations postulated that HIV-resembled exosomes may contribute to HIV pathogenesis. Interestingly, recent reports illustrated that exosomes from body fluids could inhibit HIV infection, which then bring up a new paradigm for HIV/AIDS therapy. Accumulative findings suggested that the cellular origin of exosomes may define their effects towards HIV-1. This review summarizes the two distinctive roles of exosomes in regulating HIV pathogenesis. We also highlighted several additional factors that govern the exosomal functions. Deeper understanding on how exosomes promote or abate HIV infection can significantly contribute to the development of new and potent antiviral therapeutic strategy and vaccine designs.