bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breathing dynamics of a trapped impurity in a dipolar Bose gas
Authors: Hu Fang-Qi , Xue Ju-Kui
Published: September 2014

With the consideration of impurity-bosons coupling and dipole–dipole interactions (DDI), we study the breathing dynamics of a harmonically trapped impurity interacting with a separately trapped background of dipolar Bose gas. By using the variational approach, the breathing equations, the breathing frequencies and the effective potentials governing the breathing dynamics of the impurity in dipolar gas are obtained. The effects of DDI, impurity-bosons interaction and external trapping potentials on breathing dynamics of impurity are discussed. We find that, because of the anisotropic and long-range characters of DDI, the effects of DDI, impurity-bosons interaction and external trapping potentials on breathing dynamics of impurity are strongly coupled. DDI has significant modification on dynamics, which depends on the external trapping potentials. For spherically symmetric external trapping, DDI makes the impurity more cigar-shaped along axial direction and the breathing oscillation in radial direction is suppressed by DDI. However, the effect of DDI on the breathing dynamics is weakened for cigar-shaped external trapping. Interestingly, for strong external pancake-shaped trapping, the symmetries of the breathing dynamics with respect to attractive and repulsive impurity-bosons coupling recover. Especially, for some critical value of impurity-bosons coupling, the breathing dynamics undergo a sudden quench.
On the lattice of subgroups of the lamplighter group
Authors: Grigorchuk R. , Kravchenko R.
Published: September 2014

The techniques of modules and actions of groups on rooted trees are applied to study the subgroup structure and the lattice subgroup of lamplighter type groups of the form ℒn,p = (ℤ/pℤ)n ≀ ℤ for n ≥ 1 and p prime. We completely characterize scale invariant structures on ℒ1,2. We determine all points on the boundary of binary tree (on which ℒ1,p naturally acts in a self-similar manner) with trivial stabilizer. We prove the congruence subgroup property (CSP) and as a consequence show that the profinite completion [Formula: see text] of ℒ1,p is a self-similar group generated by finite automaton. We also describe the structure of portraits of elements of ℒ1,p and [Formula: see text] and show that ℒ1,p is not a sofic tree shift group in the terminology of [T. Ceccherini-Silberstein, M. Coornaert, F. Fiorenza and Z. Sunic, Cellular automata between sofic tree shifts, Theor. Comput. Sci.506 (2013) 79–101; A. Penland and Z. Sunic, Sofic tree shifts and self-similar groups, preprint].
Modeling and control through leadership of a refined flocking system
Authors: Borzì Alfio , Wongkaew Suttida
Published: September 2014

A new refined flocking model that includes self-propelling, friction, attraction and repulsion, and alignment features is presented. This model takes into account various behavioral phenomena observed in biological and social systems. In addition, the presence of a leader is included in the system in order to develop a control strategy for the flocking model to accomplish desired objectives. Specifically, a model predictive control scheme is proposed that requires the solution of a sequence of open-loop optimality systems. An accurate Runge–Kutta scheme to discretize the optimality systems and a nonlinear conjugate gradient solver are implemented and discussed.

Numerical experiments are performed that investigate the properties of the refined flocking model and demonstrate the ability of the control strategy to drive the flocking system to attain a desired target configuration and to follow a given trajectory.
Kinetic part-feeding models for assembly lines in automotive industries
Authors: Michailidis L. , Herty M. , Ziegler M.
Published: September 2014

This paper deals with the modeling of production processes in automotive industries by models based on partial differential equations. The basic idea consists on the derivation of kinetic equations to model production flow on an assembly line. Numerical results based on data of an assembly plant are presented. The work implements a recent discussion for general flow on unstructured networks.
Inverse problems and invisibility cloaking for FEM models and resistor networks
Authors: Lassas Matti , Salo Mikko , Tzou Leo
Published: September 2014

In this paper we consider inverse problems for resistor networks and for models obtained via the finite element method (FEM) for the conductivity equation. These correspond to discrete versions of the inverse conductivity problem of Calderón. We characterize FEM models corresponding to a given triangulation of the domain that are equivalent to certain resistor networks, and apply the results to study nonuniqueness of the discrete inverse problem. It turns out that the degree of nonuniqueness for the discrete problem is larger than the one for the partial differential equation. We also study invisibility cloaking for FEM models, and show how an arbitrary body can be surrounded with a layer so that the cloaked body has the same boundary measurements as a given background medium.
The statistical dynamics of a spatial logistic model and the related kinetic equation
Authors: Finkelshtein Dmitri , Kondratiev Yuri , Kozitsky Yuri , Kutoviy Oleksandr
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we study an infinite system of point entities in ℝd which reproduce themselves and die, also due to competition. The system's states are probability measures on the space of configurations of entities. Their evolution is described by means of a BBGKY-type equation for the corresponding correlation (moment) functions. It is proved that: (a) these functions evolve on a bounded time interval and remain sub-Poissonian due to the competition; (b) in the Vlasov scaling limit they converge to the correlation functions of the time-dependent Poisson point field the density of which solves the kinetic equation obtained in the scaling limit from the equation for the correlation functions. A number of properties of the solutions of the kinetic equation are also esta- blished.
Scale analysis of a hydrodynamic model of plasma
Authors: Donatelli Donatella , Feireisl Eduard , Novotný Antonín
Published: September 2014

We examine a hydrodynamic model of the motion of ions in plasma in the regime of small Debye length, a small ratio of the ion/electron temperature, and high Reynolds number. We analyze the associated singular limit and identify the limit problem — the incompressible Euler system. The result leans on careful analysis of the oscillatory component of the solutions by means of Fourier analysis.
EDITORIAL
Authors: Phua Kok Khoo
Published: September 2014

In every issue of the Asia Pacific Physics Newsletter (APPN) we seek to bring to you articles reporting the latest discoveries, research highlights and headline news in the field of Physics. This issue, once again, is packed with interesting insights into the lives of pioneers like Professor CN Yang (Nobel Laureate for Physics,1957), Professor Roy Glauber (Nobel Laureate for Physics, 2005) and Professor Serge Haroche (Nobel Laureate for Physics, 2012).
A Conversation with Professor CN Yang
Authors:   Nanyang Technological University
Published: September 2014

We had the good fortune to join in an informal discussion with the distinguished Professor of Physics who won Nobel Prize in 1957, Prof Yang Chen Ning (CN Yang).
Will We Ever… Detect Other Universes?
Authors:   BBC NEWS
Published: September 2014

We think of our Universe as everything there ever was, is, and will be.
Why do Girls not do Physics A-level? IOP to Investigate
Authors:   BBC NEWS
Published: September 2014

A research project into why girls drop physics after GCSE has been announced by the Institute of Physics (IOP).
Scientists and Students from Hong Kong Join a Top Particle Physics Experiment
Authors:   University of Hong Kong
Published: September 2014

A team of physicists from Hong Kong has now formally joined one of the most prestigious physics experiments in the world. Following a unanimous vote of approval today by its Collaboration Board, ATLAS has admitted the Hong Kong team as a member. The ATLAS Collaboration operates one of the largest particle detectors in the world, located at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the world's highest energy particle accelerator at CERN, Switzerland. In 2012, the ATLAS team — along with the CMS Collaboration — co-discovered the Higgs boson, or so-called 'God Particle'. The gigantic but sensitive and precise ATLAS detector, together with the unprecedentedly high collision energy and luminosity of the LHC, make it possible to search for fundamentally new physics, such as dark matter, hidden extra dimensions, and supersymmetry — a proposed symmetry among elementary particles. The LHC is currently undergoing an upgrade, targeting a substantial increase in beam energy and intensity in a year's time. It is widely expected that the discovery of the Higgs boson is only the beginning of an era of new breakthroughs in fundamental physics. All these exciting opportunities are now opened up to scientists and students from Hong Kong.
Highlights from the Asia Pacific Region
Authors:   APPN Editorial Team
Published: September 2014

Molecular motors are nanometer-sized mechanoenzymes that work in living cells. Many motors convert chemical energy into work through their cyclic conformational changes that are coupled with nucleotide hydrolysis. The energy conversion efficiency of molecular motors is in general high. Despite extensive studies on this topic, detailed mechanism of chemomechanical coupling from molecular point of view still remains elusive. One remarkable feature that discriminates the molecular motor proteins from human-made machines is that molecular motors work in aqueous solution, interacting with many water molecules. One of the key approaches to address the molecular mechanism of the molecular motors is to understand the role of the intermolecular interaction with surrounding water molecules by modulating the interaction with water molecules.
Ken Wilson — The Early Years
Authors: Jackiw R.
Published: September 2014

Ken Wilson's lifetime achievements in fundamental theoretical physics are well known and are well documented in this memorial volume. Therefore, there is no purpose in my adding yet another appreciation of his seminal work. Rather, I shall describe Ken and some of his activities at the beginning of his career, when he was junior faculty at Cornell and I was his student — one of two in the first cohort of PhDs that he mentored. (The other was Gerald Estberg, long time faculty and now retired at the University of San Diego.)
The World Wide Web's 25th Anniversary
Authors: Giampietro Marina
Published: September 2014

In March 1989 at CERN, Tim Berners-Lee submitted his proposal to develop a radical new way of linking and sharing information over the internet. The document was entitled "Information Management: A Proposal" (CERN Courier May 2009 p24). And so the web was born. Now, Berners-Lee, the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and the World Wide Web Foundation are launching a series of initiatives to mark the 25th anniversary of the original proposal, and to raise awareness of themes linked to the web, such as freedom, accessibility and privacy.
Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics — Its Past and the Present
Authors: Ghosh Amit
Published: September 2014

"An institution is the lengthened shadow of one man" are perhaps the most appropriate words that can be said about Professor Meghnad Saha and Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics (SINP). Prior to the independence of the country Prof. Saha was working very closely with Jawaharlal Nehru and Subash Chandra Bose in framing the national science and planning policy. He was probably the first person in the country to have foreseen the immense potential of nuclear science for the betterment of Indian society. So by 1940, he introduced nuclear physics as part of the university physics curriculum in the University of Calcutta. With supports from Nehru, he received a generous fund from the Dorabji Tata Trust for the procurement and construction of a cyclotron in 1941. After the World War II and followed by the independence of the country in 1947, Prof. Saha realised that nuclear physics had grown to such an extent that to take part in research a separate institution with a close link to the universities was necessary. Thus, the foundation stone of SINP (the then INP, the Institute of Nuclear Physics) was laid down in 1949 and the institute was formally inaugurated on 11 January 1950, by Madame Irene Joliot Curie. Right from its inception, Prof. Saha initiated research in various disciplines of science ranging from astrophysics, plasma physics, physics of materials and biophysics, in the newly born institute and realising the importance of education, he introduced a post-M.Sc. programme, a pre-Ph.D. course, the first of its kind in the country, to bridge the gap between the university curriculum and research. The institute was renamed as SINP after his untimely demise in 1956.
Tsinghua Center for Astrophysics and the Dark Universe
Authors: Tao Charling
Published: September 2014

The Tsinghua Center for Astrophysics (THCA) was founded in 2001 by Prof. Li Tipei and Shang Rencheng. A distinguishing characteristic of THCA's astrophysics program is its emphasis on space X-ray and gamma-ray instrumentation, by taking advantage of Tsinghua's strong programs on nuclear physics, nuclear engineering, space and aeronautics engineering, as well as electronics and information technology. The main research directions in THCA include high energy astrophysics and cosmology with space and ground observations in X-rays and gamma-rays, and more recently in optical wavelengths, radio-astronomy, gravitational waves, dark matter and dark energy analyses and projects.
Implementation of a study skills program for entering at-risk medical students
Authors: Miller Cynthia J.
Published: September 2014

While the first year of medical school is challenging for all students, there may be specific issues for students from rural areas, economically disadvantaged backgrounds, ethnic minorities, or nontraditional age groups. A Summer Prematriculation Program (SPP) was created to prepare entering at-risk students for the demands of medical school. For the past 2 yr, an emphasis was placed on the development of appropriate study plans and skills. On presurveys, students predicted an increase in their number of study hours per lecture hour, from 7.6 h in undergraduate coursework to 9.1 h in medical school coursework ( n = 35). These study plans were infeasible given the rigorous didactic lecture schedule in medical school. Interventions were made through lectures on study plans and modeling of appropriate study habits using engaging lectures in the SPP physiology course. At the end of the program, a postsurvey was given, and students reported a reduction in the planned hours of study to a more realistic 3.9 h of study time per hour of lecture. Furthermore, students planned to decrease their use of textbooks while increasing their use of concept mapping, videos, and peer teaching. The majority of students completing the SPP program with a study skills emphasis performed well in the Medical Physiology course, with 4 students honoring in the course, 27 students passing, and 2 students remediating the course after an initial failure. These results indicate that at-risk medical students may have inappropriate study plans that can be improved through participation in a program that emphasizes study skills development.
Revision workshops in elementary mathematics enhance student performance in routine laboratory calculations
Authors: Sawbridge Jenny L. , Qureshi Haseeb K. , Boyd Matthew J. , Brown Angus M.
Published: September 2014

The ability to understand and implement calculations required for molarity and dilution computations that are routinely undertaken in the laboratory are essential skills that should be possessed by all students entering an undergraduate Life Sciences degree. However, it is increasingly recognized that the majority of these students are ill equipped to reliably carry out such calculations. There are several factors that conspire against students' understanding of this topic, with the alien concept of the mole in relation to the mass of compounds and the engineering notation required when expressing the relatively small quantities typically involved being two key examples. In this report, we highlight teaching methods delivered via revision workshops to undergraduate Life Sciences students at the University of Nottingham. Workshops were designed to 1) expose student deficiencies in basic numeracy skills and remedy these deficiencies, 2) introduce molarity and dilution calculations and illustrate their workings in a step-by-step manner, and 3) allow students to appreciate the magnitude of numbers. Preworkshop to postworkshop comparisons demonstrated a considerable improvement in students' performance, which attenuated with time. The findings of our study suggest that an ability to carry out laboratory calculations cannot be assumed in students entering Life Sciences degrees in the United Kingdom but that explicit instruction in the form of workshops improves proficiency to a level of competence that allows students to prosper in the laboratory environment.
Hugh's book and Krogh's animals: biodiversity and textbook examples in teaching
Authors: Robischon Marcel
Published: September 2014

The medieval simile of the world as a book seems to anticipate modern notions of biodiversity as a key to insights and learning. This thought is translated into the practice of research in the August Krogh principle, which provides argumentative support for researchers who dare to venture beyond the range of commonly used models by choosing a new experimental organism for a particular scientific question. Established model organisms often hold high exploratory power to the researcher yet little explanatory power to the student, in particular when represented in a secondary source. This essay puts forward the suggestion that Krogh's principle applies to the use of organisms as instructional models and textbook examples too and encourages educators to continuously venture beyond established illustrative teaching examples in a continuous exploration of the “book of the world” and the “treasure house of nature.”
An alternative to the use of animals to teach diabetes mellitus
Authors: Basso Paulo José , Tazinafo Lucas Favaretto , Silva Mauro Ferreira , Rocha Maria José Alves
Published: September 2014

We developed an alternative approach to teach diabetes mellitus in our practical classes, replacing laboratory animals. We used custom rats made of cloth, which have a ventral zipper that allows stuffing with glass marbles to reach different weights. Three mock rats per group were placed into metabolic cages with real food and water and with test tubes containing artificial urine, simulating a sample collection of 24 h. For each cage, we also provided other test tubes with artificial blood and urine, simulating different levels of hyperglycemia. The artificial “diabetic” urine contained different amounts of anhydrous glucose and acetone to simulate two different levels of glycosuria and ketonuria. The simulated urine of a nondiabetic rat was prepared without the addition of glucose or acetone. An Accu-Chek system is used to analyze glycemia, and glycosuria and ketonuria intensity were analyzed by means of a Urocolor bioassay. In the laboratory classroom, students were told that they would receive three rats to find out which one has type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. To do so, they had to weigh the animals, quantify the water and food ingestion, and analyze the artificial blood and urine for glycemia, glycosuria, and ketonuria. Only at the end of class did we reveal that the urine and blood were artificial. Students were instructed to plot the data in a table, discuss the results within their group, and write an individual report. We have already used this practical class with 300 students, without a single student refusing to participate.
Faculty reflections on the process of building an integrated preclerkship curriculum: a new school perspective
Authors: Khalil Mohammed K. , Kibble Jonathan D.
Published: September 2014

This is a reflective essay based on the experience of developing a structure and function module within a new integrated medical curriculum. Our hope is that the insights we gained during a 4-yr journey in a new medical school will be transferable to others engaged with curriculum development. Here, we present an interpretive analysis of our personal experiences together with some original research data and a synthesis of the literature. We will argue that a focus on teaching faculty is the key to successful curriculum integration and suggest an agenda for faculty development. Our essay begins by exploring what curriculum integration really means and what its purpose might be. Our case study explores the challenges of building a shared understanding among stakeholders and of negotiating learning outcomes and methods of teaching as well as the process of developing content and assessment. We feel that many of our experiences in the new medical school are applicable in other settings, such as curriculum reform in established schools and for developers of competency-based premedical curricula. We conclude with recommendations to assist other curriculum planners and teachers by offering some benefits of hindsight.
Easy method to examine single nerve fiber excitability and conduction parameters using intact nonanesthetized earthworms
Authors: Bähring Robert , Bauer Christiane K.
Published: September 2014

The generation and conduction of neuronal action potentials (APs) were the subjects of a cell physiology exercise for first-year medical students. In this activity, students demonstrated the all-or-none nature of AP generation, measured conduction velocity, and examined the dependence of the threshold stimulus amplitude on stimulus duration. For this purpose, they used the median giant nerve fiber (MGF) in the ventral nerve cord of the common earthworm ( Lumbricus terrestris). Here, we introduce a specialized stimulation and recording chamber that the nonanesthetized earthworm enters completely unforced. The worm resides in a narrow round duct with silver electrodes on the bottom such that individual APs of the MGF can be elicited and recorded superficially. Our experimental setup combines several advantages: it allows noninvasive single fiber AP measurements taken from a nonanesthetized animal that is yet restrained. Students performed the experiments with a high success rate. According to the data acquired by the students, the mean conduction velocity of the MGF was 30.2 m/s. From the amplitude-duration relationship for threshold stimulation, rheobase and chronaxie were graphically determined by the students according to Lapicque's method. The mean rheobase was 1.01 V, and the mean chronaxie was 0.06 ms. The acquired data and analysis results are of high quality, as deduced from critical examination based on the law of Weiss. In addition, we provide video material, which was also used in the practical course.
Inspiring careers in STEM and healthcare fields through medical simulation embedded in high school science education
Authors: Berk Louis J. , Muret-Wagstaff Sharon L. , Goyal Riya , Joyal Julie A. , Gordon James A. , Faux Russell , Oriol Nancy E.
Published: September 2014

The most effective ways to promote learning and inspire careers related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) remain elusive. To address this gap, we reviewed the literature and designed and implemented a high-fidelity, medical simulation-based Harvard Medical School MEDscience course, which was integrated into high school science classes through collaboration between medical school and K–12 faculty. The design was based largely on the literature on concepts and mechanisms of self-efficacy. A structured telephone survey was conducted with 30 program alumni from the inaugural school who were no longer in high school. Near-term effects, enduring effects, contextual considerations, and diffusion and dissemination were queried. Students reported high incoming attitudes toward STEM education and careers, and these attitudes showed before versus after gains ( P < .05). Students in this modest sample overwhelmingly attributed elevated and enduring levels of impact on their interest and confidence in pursuing a science or healthcare-related career to the program. Additionally, 63% subsequently took additional science or health courses, 73% participated in a job or educational experience that was science related during high school, and 97% went on to college. Four of every five program graduates cited a health-related college major, and 83% offered their strongest recommendation of the program to others. Further study and evaluation of simulation-based experiences that capitalize on informal, naturalistic learning and promote self-efficacy are warranted.
Dynamic Multiphoton Microscopy: Focusing Light on Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Hall Andrew M. , Molitoris Bruce A.
Published: September 2014

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major global health problem; much research has been conducted on AKI, and numerous agents have shown benefit in animal studies, but none have translated into treatments. There is, therefore, a pressing unmet need to increase knowledge of the pathophysiology of AKI. Multiphoton microscopy (MPM) provides a tool to non-invasively visualize dynamic events in real time and at high resolution in rodent kidneys, and in this article we review its application to study novel mechanisms and treatments in different forms of AKI.
The Gut-Adipose-Liver Axis in the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Konrad Daniel , Wueest Stephan
Published: September 2014

Obesity is associated with altered gut microbiota composition and impaired gut barrier function. These changes, together with interrelated mesenteric adipose tissue inflammation, result in increased release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, bacteria-derived factors, and lipids into the portal circulation, promoting the development of (hepatic) insulin resistance. Herein, the potential impact of obesity-related changes in gut and visceral adipose tissue biology on the development of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes is reviewed.
Peripheral and Central Glucose Sensing In Hypoglycemic Detection
Authors: Donovan Casey M. , Watts Alan G.
Published: September 2014

Hypoglycemia poses a serious threat to the integrity of the brain, owing to its reliance on blood glucose as a fuel. Protecting against hypoglycemia is an extended network of glucose sensors located within the brain and in the periphery that serve to mediate responses restoring euglycemia, i.e., counterregulatory responses. This review examines the various glucose sensory loci involved in hypoglycemic detection, with a particular emphasis on peripheral glucose sensory loci and their contribution to hypoglycemic counterregulation.
Effect of Allelochemicals from Leaf Leachates ofGmelina arboreaon Inhibition of Some Essential Seed Germination Enzymes in Green Gram, Red Gram, Black Gram, and Chickpea
Authors: Madhan Shankar Ramakrishnan , Veeralakshmi Shanmugham , Sirajunnisa Abdul Razack , Rajendran Ramasamy
Published: September 2014

The present work focused on identification of allelochemicals from the leaf leachates ofGmelina arboreaand analyzing its influence on the germination of red gram, green gram, black gram, and chickpea in terms of the levels of some important germination enzymes like acid phosphatase, catalase, peroxidase, and amylase. The study showed that allelopathic effects were more predominant in chickpea with 80% followed by red gram, green gram, and black gram where the inhibition ranged between 26% and 75%. The vigor index in the seed lots is also considerably reduced. Total chlorophyll content was also reduced by allelopathic effect in all treated seeds ranging between 0.7 and 7.5 μg/g dry weight. The effect of allelochemicals drastically reduced the relative water content in red gram followed by the other seed lots. The total protein content varied considerably in the control and the treated seed lots. Allelochemicals inhibited the expression and activity of the enzymes required for efficient germination. The present study also threw limelight on the effective use of this tree, wherein planting this tree amidst pulse related herb plantations could affect the growth of the economically viable plants, but this tree can very well adapt to diversified soil conditions and rainfall zones.
Perceived Cognitive Decline in Multiple Sclerosis Impacts Quality of Life Independently of Depression
Authors: Samartzis Lampros , Gavala Efthymia , Zoukos Yiannis , Aspiotis Achilleas , Thomaides Thomas
Published: September 2014

Background/Aim. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of perceived cognitive dysfunction and of depression, on self-reported QoL, in a Greek population sample of MS patients.Methods. One hundred outpatients diagnosed with MS completed the Short-Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36), as well as the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire (PDQ) and the Depression subscale of the Mental Health Inventory (MHI), as part of a clinical evaluation which included the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) estimation. Multiple linear regression was conducted to determine the best linear combination of age, gender, education, EDSS, depression, attention/concentration, retrospective memory, prospective memory, and planning/organization, for predicting QoL scores.Results. In the multivariate regression analysis models, EDSS (P<0.05), depression (P<0.001), perceived planning/organization (P<0.05), and perceived retrospective memory dysfunction (P<0.05) independently predict quality of life scores. Age, sex, education level, and perceived attention/concentration dysfunction, as well as perceived prospective memory dysfunction, do not independently predict quality of life scores.Conclusions. Perceived planning/organization impairment and perceived retrospective memory impairment in MS patients predict QoL independently of the severity of disease and the severity of depression and therefore should be considered in the assessment of patient health status as well as in the design of treatment interventions and rehabilitation.
Pyran-Squaraine as Photosensitizers for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells: DFT/TDDFT Study of the Electronic Structures and Absorption Properties
Authors: El-Shishtawy Reda M. , Elroby Shaaban A. , Asiri Abdullah M. , Hilal Rifaat H.
Published: September 2014

In an effort to provide, assess, and evaluate a theoretical approach which enables designing efficient donor-acceptor dye systems, the electronic structure and optical properties of pyran-squaraine as donor-acceptor dyes used in dye-sensitized solar cells were investigated. Ground state properties have been computed at the B3LYP/6-31+G**level of theory. The long-range corrected density functionals CAM-B3LYP, PBEPBE, PBE1PBE (PBE0), and TPSSH with 6-311++G**were employed to examine absorption properties of the studied dyes. In an extensive comparison between experimental results and ab initio benchmark calculations, the TPSSH functional with 6-311++G**basis set was found to be the most appropriate in describing the electronic properties for the studied pyran and squaraine dyes. Natural transition orbitals (NTO), frontier molecular orbitals (FMO), LUMO, HOMO, and energy gaps, of these dyes, have been analyzed to show their effect on the process of electron injection and dye regeneration. Interaction between HOMO and LUMO of pyran and squaraine dyes was investigated to understand the recombination process and charge-transfer process involving these dyes. Additionally, we performed natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis to investigate the role of charge delocalization and hyperconjugative interactions in the stability of the molecule.
Nonlinear Gossip Algorithms for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Shi Chao , Zheng Yuanshi , Qiu Hongbing , Wang Junyi
Published: September 2014

We study some nonlinear gossip algorithms for wireless sensor networks. Firstly, two types of nonlinear single gossip algorithms are proposed. By using Lyapunov theory, Lagrange mean value theorem, and stochastic Lasalle’s invariance principle, we prove that the nonlinear single gossip algorithms can converge to the average of initial states with probability one. Secondly, two types of nonlinear multigossip algorithms are also presented and the convergence is proved by the same methods. Finally, computer simulation is also given to show the validity of the theoretical results.
Augmentation Rhinoplasty in Cleft Lip Nasal Deformity: Preliminary Patients’ Perspective
Authors: Tiong William H. C. , Zain Mohd Ali Mat , Basiron Normala Hj
Published: September 2014

The correction of cleft lip nasal deformity is challenging and there have been numerous methods described in the literature with little demonstrated technical superiority of one over another. The common clinical issues associated with cleft lip nasal deformity are its lack of symmetry, alar collapse on the affected side, obtuse nasal labial angle, short nasal length, loss of tip definition, and altered columella show among others. We carried out augmentation of cleft lip rhinoplasties with rib graft in 16 patients over the one-year study period. Each of these patients was reviewed and given questionnaire before and after surgery to evaluate their response on the outcome to the approach. Preoperatively, nasal asymmetry is the main complaint (14/16, 87.5%) among our series of patients. Postoperatively, 12 (75%) patients out of the 16 reported significant improvement in their nasal symmetry with the other four marginal. All patients reported excellent nasal projection postoperatively with good nasal tip definition. Our series of patients reported overall good satisfaction outcome and will recommend this procedure to other patients with cleft lip nasal deformity. In conclusion, augmentation of cleft lip rhinoplasty can be employed to achieve perceivable and satisfactory outcome in patients with cleft lip nasal deformity.
The Effect of Slow Invariant Manifold and Slow Flow Dynamics on the Energy Transfer and Dissipation of a Singular Damped System with an Essential Nonlinear Attachment
Authors: Maaita Jamal-Odysseas , Meletlidou Efthymia
Published: September 2014

We study the effect of slow flow dynamics and slow invariant manifolds on the energy transfer and dissipation of a dissipative system of two linear oscillators coupled with an essential nonlinear
oscillator with a mass much smaller than the masses of the linear oscillators. We calculate the slow flow of the system, the slow invariant manifold, the total energy of the system, and the energy that is stored in the nonlinear oscillator for different sets of the parameters and show that the bifurcations of the SIM and the dynamics of the slow flow play an important role in the energy transfer from the linear to the nonlinear oscillator and the rate of dissipation of the total energy of the initial system.
Soluble HLA Technology as a Strategy to Evaluate the Impact of HLA Mismatches
Authors: Kunze-Schumacher Heike , Blasczyk Rainer , Bade-Doeding Christina
Published: September 2014

HLA class I incompatibilities still remain one of the main barriers for unrelated bone marrow transplantation (BMT); hence the molecular understanding of how to mismatch patients and donors and still have successful clinical outcomes will guide towards the future of unrelated BMT. One way to estimate the magnitude of polymorphisms within the PBR is to determine which peptides can be selected by individual HLA alleles and subsequently presented for recognition by T cells. The features (structure, length, and sequence) of different peptides each confer an individual pHLA landscape and thus directly shape the individual immune response. The elution and sequencing of peptides by mass spectrometric analysis enable determining thebona fiderepertoire of presented peptides for a given allele. This is an effective and simple way to compare the functions of allelic variants and make a first assessment of their degree of permissivity. We describe the methodology used for peptide sequencing and the limitations of peptide prediction tools compared to experimental methods. We highlight the altered peptide features that are observed between allelic variants and the need to discover the altered peptide repertoire in situations of “artificial” graft versus host disease (GvHD) that occur in HLA-specific hypersensitive immune responses to drugs.
Self-Dual Normal Basis of a Galois Ring
Authors: Irwansyah  , Muchtadi-Alamsyah Intan , Barra Aleams , Muchlis Ahmad
Published: September 2014

LetR′=GR(ps,psml)andR=GR(ps,psm)be two Galois rings. In this paper, we show how to construct normal basis in the extension of Galois rings, and we also define weakly self-dual normal basis and self-dual normal basis forR′overR, whereR′is considered as a free module overR. Moreover, we explain a way to construct self-dual normal basis using particular system of polynomials. Finally, we show the connection between self-dual normal basis forR′overRand the set of all invertible, circulant, and orthogonal matrices overR.
Changes in Surface Wind Speed over North America from CMIP5 Model Projections and Implications for Wind Energy
Authors: Kulkarni Sujay , Huang Huei-Ping
Published: September 2014

The centennial trends in the surface wind speed over North America are deduced from global climate model simulations in the Climate Model Intercomparison Project—Phase 5 (CMIP5) archive. Using the 21st century simulations under the RCP 8.5 scenario of greenhouse gas emissions, 5–10 percent increases per century in the 10 m wind speed are found over Central and East-Central United States, the Californian Coast, and the South and East Coasts of the USA in winter. In summer, climate models projected decreases in the wind speed ranging from 5 to 10 percent per century over the same coastal regions. These projected changes in the surface wind speed are moderate and imply that the current estimate of wind power potential for North America based on present-day climatology will not be significantly changed by the greenhouse gas forcing in the coming decades.
Research on Roll Stabilizing Based on Energy Optimization for Autonomous Surface Vehicle
Authors: Wang Hongjian , Wang Linlin , Pan Lixin
Published: September 2014

Considering the case of ASV (autonomous surface vehicle) navigating with low speed near water surface, a new method for design of roll motion controller is proposed in order to restrain wave disturbance effectively and improve roll stabilizing performance. Control system design is based on GPC (general predictive control) theory and working principle of zero-speed fin stabilizer. Coupling horizontal motion model of ASV is decoupled, and an equivalent transfer function of roll motion is obtained and transformed into a discrete difference equation through inverse Laplace transformation and Euler approximation. Finally, predictive model of GPC, namely, the difference equation of roll motion, is given. GPC algorithm of ASV roll motion is derived from performance index based on roll stabilizing performance and energy consumption used for driving fin stabilizer. In allusion to time-variant parameters in roll motion model, recursive least square method is adopted for parameter estimation. Simulation results of ASV roll motion control show better stabilizing performance and minimized energy consumption improved by self-adaptive GPC.
Numerical Investigation of the Effect of Stenosis Geometry on the Coronary Diagnostic Parameters
Authors: Kamangar Sarfaraz , Kalimuthu Govindaraju , Anjum Badruddin Irfan , Badarudin A. , Salman Ahmed N. J. , Khan T. M. Yunus
Published: September 2014

The present study deals with the functional severity of a coronary artery stenosis assessed by the fractional flow reserve (FFR). The effects of different geometrical shapes of lesion on the diagnostic parameters are unknown. In this study, 3D computational simulation of blood flow in three different geometrical shapes of stenosis (triangular, elliptical, and trapezium) is considered in steady and transient conditions for 70% (moderate), 80% (intermediate), and 90% (severe) area stenosis (AS). For a given percentage AS, the variation of diagnostic parameters which are derived from pressure drop across the stenosis was found in three different geometrical shapes of stenosis and it was observed that FFR is higher in triangular shape and lower in trapezium shape. The pressure drop coefficient (CDP) was higher in trapezium shape and lower in triangular model whereas the LFC shows opposite trend. From the clinical perspective, the relationship between percentage AS and FFR is linear and inversely related in all the three models. A cut-off value of 0.75 for FFR was observed at 76.5% AS in trapezium model, 79.5% in elliptical model, and 82.7% AS for the triangular shaped model. The misinterpretation of the functional severity of the stenosis is in the region of 76.5%-82.7 % AS from different shapes of stenosis models.
Experiment Investigation on Electrical and Thermal Performances of a Semitransparent Photovoltaic/Thermal System with Water Cooling
Authors: Li Guiqiang , Pei Gang , Yang Ming , Ji Jie
Published: September 2014

Different from the semitransparent building integrated photovoltaic/thermal (BIPV/T) system with air cooling, the semitransparent BIPV/T system with water cooling is rare, especially based on the silicon solar cells. In this paper, a semitransparent photovoltaic/thermal system (SPV/T) with water cooling was set up, which not only would provide the electrical power and hot water, but also could attain the natural illumination for the building. The PV efficiency, thermal efficiency, and exergy analysis were all adopted to illustrate the performance of SPV/T system. The results showed that the PV efficiency and the thermal efficiency were about 11.5% and 39.5%, respectively, on the typical sunny day. Furthermore, the PV and thermal efficiencies fit curves were made to demonstrate the SPV/T performance more comprehensively. The performance analysis indicated that the SPV/T system has a good application prospect for building.
Preaxial Polydactyly of the Foot: Variable Expression of Trisomy 13 in a Case from Central Africa
Authors: Mbuyi-Musanzayi Sébastien , Lumaka Aimé , Yogolelo Asani Bienvenu , Lubala Kasole Toni , Lukusa Tshilobo Prosper , Kalenga Muenze Prosper , Tshilombo Katombe François , Devriendt Koenraad
Published: September 2014

Trisomy 13 is a chromosomal disorder characterized by a severe clinical picture of multiple congenital anomalies. We here describe the clinical and genetic features and prognosis observed in a newborn with trisomy 13 from Central Africa. He presented the rare feature of preaxial polydactyly of the feet.
A Location Estimation Algorithm Based on RSSI Vector Similarity Degree
Authors: Shang Fengjun , Su Wen , Wang Qian , Gao Hongxia , Fu Qiang
Published: September 2014

We present a detailed study on the RSS-based location techniques in wireless sensor networks (WSN). There are two aspects in this paper. On the one hand, the accurate RSSI received from nodes is the premise of accurate location. Firstly, the distribution trend of RSSI is analyzed in this experiment and determined the loss model of signal propagation by processing experimental data. Secondly, in order to determine the distance between receiving nodes and sending nodes, Gaussian fitting is used to process specific RSSI at different distance. Moreover, the piecewise linear interpolation is introduced to calculate the distance of any RSSI. On the other hand, firstly, the RSSI vector similarity degree (R-VSD) is used to choose anchor nodes. Secondly, we designed a new localization algorithm which is based on the quadrilateral location unit by using more accurate RSSI and range. Particularly, there are two localization mechanisms in our study. In addition, the generalized inverse is introduced to solve the coordinates of nodes. At last, location error of the new algorithm is about 17.6% by simulation experiment.
Estimation of Measurement Uncertainties for the DGT Passive Sampler Used for Determination of Copper in Water
Authors: Knutsson Jesper , Rauch Sebastien , Morrison Gregory M.
Published: September 2014

Diffusion-based passive samplers are increasingly used for water quality monitoring. While the overall method robustness and reproducibility for passive samplers in water are widely reported, there has been a lack of a detailed description of uncertainty sources. In this paper an uncertainty budget for the determination of fully labile Cu in water using a DGT passive sampler is presented. Uncertainty from the estimation of effective cross-sectional diffusion area and the instrumental determination of accumulated mass of analyte are the most significant sources of uncertainty, while uncertainties from contamination and the estimation of diffusion coefficient are negligible. The results presented highlight issues with passive samplers which are important to address if overall method uncertainty is to be reduced and effective strategies to reduce overall method uncertainty are presented.
Vasopressin in Hemorrhagic Shock: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Animal Trials
Authors: Cossu Andrea Pasquale , Mura Paolo , De Giudici Lorenzo Matteo , Puddu Daniela , Pasin Laura , Evangelista Maurizio , Xanthos Theodoros , Musu Mario , Finco Gabriele
Published: September 2014

Objective.The latest European guidelines for the management of hemorrhagic shock suggest the use of vasopressors (norepinephrine) in order to restore an adequate mean arterial pressure when fluid resuscitation therapy fails to restore blood pressure. The administration of arginine vasopressin (AVP), or its analogue terlipressin, has been proposed as an alternative treatment in the early stages of hypovolemic shock.Design.A meta-analysis of randomized controlled animal trials.Participants.A total of 433 animals from 15 studies were included.Interventions.The ability of AVP and terlipressin to reduce mortality when compared with fluid resuscitation therapy, other vasopressors (norepinephrine or epinephrine), or placebo was investigated.Measurements and Main Results.Pooled estimates showed that AVP and terlipressin consistently and significantly improve survival in hemorrhagic shock (mortality: 26/174 (15%) in the AVP group versus 164/259 (63%) in the control arms;OR=0.09; 95% CI 0.05 to 0.15;Pfor effect < 0.001;Pfor heterogeneity = 0.30;I2=14%).Conclusions.Results suggest that AVP and terlipressin improve survival in the early phases of animal models of hemorrhagic shock. Vasopressin seems to be more effective than all other treatments, including other vasopressor drugs. These results need to be confirmed by human clinical trials.