bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic Posttraumatic Cartilage Lesion of the Knee Treated With an Acellular Osteochondral-Regenerating Implant: Case History With Rehabilitation Guidelines
Authors: Kon Elizaveta , Drobnic Matej , Davidson Phil A. , Levy Andrew , Zaslav Ken , Robinson Dror
Published: August 2014

Osteochondral defects are often symptomatic and lead to deranged joint function. The spontaneous healing capacity of osteochondral defects is limited. In this case study, use of an acellular scaffold capable of induction of mesenchymal stem-cell migration is described. This scaffold was used on an Outerbridge grade IV medical condylar defect measuring ~2 cm2. At 24 mo follow-up, the articular surface appeared restored by MRI, and the patient returned to sports.
Translational pain research: Lessons from genetics and genomics
Authors: Dib-Hajj Sulayman D. , Waxman Stephen G.
Published: August 2014

Genetic and genomic approaches are poised to identify opportune targets for the development of new, more effective pain therapeutics.
A single localized dose of enzyme-responsive hydrogel improves long-term survival of a vascularized composite allograft
Authors: Gajanayake Thusitha , Olariu Radu , Leclère Franck M. , Dhayani Ashish , Yang Zijiang , Bongoni Anjan K. , Banz Yara , Constantinescu Mihai A. , Karp Jeffrey M. , Vemula Praveen Kumar , Rieben Robert , Vögelin Esther
Published: August 2014

Tacrolimus-encapsulated hydrogels improve long-term survival of a vascularized composite allograft.
Deficient human β-defensin 1 underlies male infertility associated with poor sperm motility and genital tract infection
Authors: Diao Ruiying , Fok Kin Lam , Chen Hao , Yu Mei Kuen , Duan Yonggang , Chung Chin Man , Li Zhao , Wu Hanwei , Li Zesong , Zhang Hu , Ji Ziliang , Zhen Wanhua , Ng Chi Fai , Gui Yaoting , Cai Zhiming , Chan Hsiao Chang
Published: August 2014

Human β-defensin 1 plays a dual role in defending male fertility by promoting both the motility of sperm and its bactericidal activity.
Essentiality of Succinate Dehydrogenase in Mycobacterium smegmatis and Its Role in the Generation of the Membrane Potential Under Hypoxia
Authors: Pecsi Ildiko , Hards Kiel , Ekanayaka Nandula , Berney Michael , Hartman Travis , Jacobs William R. , Cook Gregory M.
Published: August 2014

Succinate:quinone oxidoreductase (Sdh) is a membrane-bound complex that couples the oxidation of succinate to fumarate in the cytoplasm to the reduction of quinone to quinol in the membrane. Mycobacterial species harbor genes for two putative
sdh
operons, but the individual roles of these two operons are unknown. In this communication, we show that
Mycobacterium smegmatis
mc
2
155 expresses two succinate dehydrogenases designated Sdh1 and Sdh2. Sdh1 is encoded by a five-gene operon (MSMEG_0416-MSMEG_0420), and Sdh2 is encoded by a four-gene operon (MSMEG_1672-MSMEG_1669). These two operons are differentially expressed in response to carbon limitation, hypoxia, and fumarate, as monitored by
sdh
promoter
-lacZ
fusions. While deletion of the
sdh1
operon did not yield any growth phenotypes on succinate or other nonfermentable carbon sources, the
sdh2
operon could be deleted only in a merodiploid background, demonstrating that Sdh2 is essential for growth. Sdh activity and succinate-dependent proton pumping were detected in cells grown aerobically, as well as under hypoxia. Fumarate reductase activity was absent under these conditions, indicating that neither Sdh1 nor Sdh2 could catalyze the reverse reaction. Sdh activity was inhibited by the Sdh inhibitor 3-nitroproprionate (3NP), and treatment with 3NP dissipated the membrane potential of wild-type or Δ
sdh1
mutant cells under hypoxia but not that of cells grown aerobically. These data imply that Sdh2 is the generator of the membrane potential under hypoxia, an essential role for the cell.

IMPORTANCE
Complex II or succinate dehydrogenase (Sdh) is a major respiratory enzyme that couples the oxidation of succinate to fumarate in the cytoplasm to the reduction of quinone to quinol in the membrane. Mycobacterial species harbor genes for two putative
sdh
operons,
sdh1
and
sdh2
, but the individual roles of these two operons are unknown. In this communication, we show that
sdh1
and
sdh2
are differentially expressed in response to energy limitation, oxygen tension, and alternative electron acceptor availability, suggesting distinct functional cellular roles. Sdh2 was essential for growth and generation of the membrane potential in hypoxic cells. Given the essentiality of succinate dehydrogenase and oxidative phosphorylation in the growth cycle of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, the potential exists to develop new antituberculosis agents against the mycobacterial succinate dehydrogenase. This enzyme has been proposed as a potential target for the development of new chemotherapeutic agents against intracellular parasites and mitochondrion-associated disease.
Solid organ transplant recipients: clinical considerations in the application of exercise
Authors: McKenzie K-J L , McKenzie D C , Yoshida E M
Published: August 2014

Over 100 000 solid organ transplants are performed worldwide each year and this has a significant impact on physical function and quality of life. However, the capacity for exercise in solid-organ recipients is reduced. Regular physical activity improves most of the indices of fitness in these patients but, with few exceptions, they do not reach the values seen in healthy controls. The reason for the 40–60% reduction in maximal exercise capacity is not clear; the disease process, need for life long immunosuppression and sedentary lifestyle all contribute. The interaction between exercise and immunosuppressing medication merits research as does the specifics of the exercise prescription for these patients. This paper reviews important features of this rapidly expanding group of patients and suggests clinical considerations in the application of exercise in this population.
CXCR4 antagonist inhibits perineural invasion of adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Jeong Woo-Jin , Choi Ik Joon , Park Min-Woo , An Soo-Youn , Jeon Eun-Hui , Paik Jin Ho , Sung Myung-Whun , Ahn Soon-Hyun
Published: August 2014

Aim

Perineural invasion and expression of CXCR4 is characteristic of adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC). Herein, we aimed to demonstrate CXCR4 expression in ACC, identify its association with perineural invasion and investigate the impact of CXCR4 inhibitor in vitro and in a murine perineural invasion model.

Methods

Expression of CXCR4 was assessed in ACC cell lines and in human tissue. The effects of gene knockdown using siRNA and specific blocker of CXCR4 (AMD3100) were evaluated in vitro. A preclinical perineural invasion model was developed using BALB/c nude mouse. The effect of AMD3100 was evaluated in vivo.

Results

CXCR4 was highly expressed in aggressive strains of ACC in vitro, in the tumour in the animal model and in the tumour of human tissue. SDF-1 expression was also demonstrated in the nerve of murine and human tissue. Gene knockdown by siRNA and inhibition by a CXCR4-specific inhibitor AMD3100 effectively abrogated invasion but not proliferation of ACC in vitro. The rate of perineural invasion was significantly decreased with AMD3100 treatment in the animal model.

Conclusions

CXCR4 is associated with perineural invasion in ACC. AMD3100, which can effectively diminish perineural invasion of ACC, may have an adjuvant role in the management of ACC.
Predictive markers of radiotherapy-induced rectal cancer regression
Authors: Shin J-S , Tut T-G , Ho V , Lee C S
Published: August 2014

Patients with locally advanced rectal cancer receive preoperative radiotherapy to reduce the probability of recurrence and to possibly improve overall survival. However, this appears dependent on the extent of histological tumour regression seen in the resected bowel, which can be highly variable between individuals. No predictive marker that can stratify patient management in this regard is currently available. Experimental data implicates a variety of factors that are involved in the DNA damage response following radiation injury, tumour tissue oxygenation, autoimmune antitumour response triggered by radiotherapy and in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer, as potential indicators of radiation sensitivity. These details are presented in this review, which may serve as targets for clinical validation studies aiming to find predictors of radiotherapy response in rectal cancer.
Endovascular treatment in patients with acute ischemic stroke and apparent occlusion of the extracranial internal carotid artery on CTA
Authors: Duijsens Hanneke M , Spaander Fianne , van Dijk Lukas C , Treurniet Frank E , Keunen Rudolf W , Mosch Arne , Majoie Charles B , van Overhagen Hans
Published: August 2014

Background

Intra-arterial treatment is gaining importance in acute ischemic stroke, but its role in patients with apparent occlusion of the extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) on computed tomographic angiography (CTA) is inconclusive.

Objective

To review retrospectively the results of intra-arterial treatment in patients with stroke and apparent extracranial ICA occlusion.

Methods

In more than 3000 patients with stroke admitted to our institution during 2008–2013, and the subgroup with suboptimal results after intravenous thrombolysis (IVT), CTA showed the absence of contrast in the extracranial ICA in 16 patients. Angiography showed true occlusion of the extracranial ICA in 10 and pseudo-occlusion in 6 patients. Treatment was considered technically successful when Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction scale (TICI) scores improved to 2 or 3 and clinically successful when the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) improved by at least 10 points or a NIHSS score of 0 or 1 was found at discharge.

Results

Recanalization was achieved in 5 of 6 patients with pseudo-occlusions and in 6 of 10 patients with true occlusion of the extracranial ICA. Favorable clinical outcomes were seen in 3 of 6 patients with pseudo-occlusions and in 4 of 10 patients with true occlusions. Four patients died, and in these patients infarction of >15% of the affected hemisphere had been seen on admission CT.

Conclusions

In cases of acute stroke and apparent occlusion of the extracranial ICA, intra-arterial treatment should be considered, especially when IVT fails and <15% of the hemisphere is infarcted on CT. Endovascular treatment may be beneficial especially in pseudo-occlusions but also in true occlusions of the extracranial ICA.
Transfer of residents to hospital prior to cardiac death: the influence of nursing home quality and ownership type
Authors: Anic Gabriella M , Pathak Elizabeth Barnett , Tanner Jean Paul , Casper Michele L , Branch Laurence G
Published: August 2014

Objectives

We hypothesised that among nursing home decedents, nursing home for-profit status and poor quality-of-care ratings, as well as patient characteristics, would lower the likelihood of transfer to hospital prior to heart disease death.

Methods

Using death certificates from a large metropolitan area (Tampa Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area) for 1998–2002, we geocoded residential street addresses of heart disease decedents to identify 2172 persons who resided in nursing homes (n=131) at the time of death. We analysed decedent place of death as an indicator of transfer prior to death. Multilevel logistic regression modelling was used for analysis. Cause of death and decedent characteristics were obtained from death certificates. Nursing home characteristics, including state inspector ratings for multiple time points, were obtained from Florida's Agency for Healthcare Administration.

Results

Nursing home for-profit status, level of nursing care and quality-of-care ratings were not associated with the likelihood of transfer to hospital prior to heart disease death. Nursing homes >5 miles from a hospital were more likely to transfer decedents, compared with facilities located close to a hospital. Significant predictors of no transfer for nursing home residents were being white, female, older, less educated and widowed/unmarried.

Conclusions

In this study population, contrary to our hypotheses, sociodemographic characteristics of nursing home decedents were more important predictors of no transfer prior to cardiac death than quality rankings or for-profit status of nursing homes.
Novel cardiac pacemaker-based human model of periodic breathing to develop real-time, pre-emptive technology for carbon dioxide stabilisation
Authors: Baruah Resham , Giannoni Alberto , Willson Keith , Manisty Charlotte H , Mebrate Yoseph , Kyriacou Andreas , Yadav Hemang , Unsworth Beth , Sutton Richard , Mayet Jamil , Hughes Alun D , Francis Darrel P
Published: August 2014

Background

Constant flow and concentration CO2has previously been efficacious in attenuating ventilatory oscillations in periodic breathing (PB) where oscillations in CO2drive ventilatory oscillations. However, it has the undesirable effect of increasing end-tidal CO2, and ventilation. We tested, in a model of PB, a dynamic CO2therapy that aims to attenuate pacemaker-induced ventilatory oscillations while minimising CO2dose.

Methods

First, pacemakers were manipulated in 12 pacemaker recipients, 6 with heart failure (ejection fraction (EF)=23.7±7.3%) and 6 without heart failure, to experimentally induce PB. Second, we applied a real-time algorithm of pre-emptive dynamic exogenous CO2administration, and tested different timings.

Results

We found that cardiac output alternation using pacemakers successfully induced PB. Dynamic CO2therapy, when delivered coincident with hyperventilation, attenuated 57% of the experimentally induced oscillations in end-tidal CO2: SD/mean 0.06±0.01 untreated versus 0.04±0.01 with treatment (p<0.0001) and 0.02±0.01 in baseline non-modified breathing. This translated to a 56% reduction in induced ventilatory oscillations: SD/mean 0.19±0.09 untreated versus 0.14±0.06 with treatment (p=0.001) and 0.10±0.03 at baseline. Of note, end-tidal CO2did not significantly rise when dynamic CO2was applied to the model (4.84±0.47 vs 4.91± 0.45 kPa, p=0.08). Furthermore, mean ventilation was also not significantly increased by dynamic CO2compared with untreated (7.8±1.2 vs 8.4±1.2 L/min, p=0.17).

Conclusions

Cardiac pacemaker manipulation can be used to induce PB experimentally. In this induced PB, delivering CO2coincident with hyperventilation, ventilatory oscillations can be substantially attenuated without a significant increase in end-tidal CO2or ventilation. Dynamic CO2administration might be developed into a clinical treatment for PB.

Trial Registration number

ISRCTN29344450.
Reducing patient delay with symptoms of acute coronary syndrome: a research protocol for a systematic review of previous interventions to investigate which behaviour change techniques are associated with effective interventions
Authors: Farquharson Barbara , Dombrowski Stephan , Pollock Alex , Johnston Marie , Treweek Shaun , Williams Brian , Smith Karen , Dougall Nadine , Jones Claire , Pringle Stuart
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Delay to presentation with symptoms of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is common meaning many fail to achieve optimal benefit from treatments. Interventions have had variable success in reducing delay. Evidence suggests inclusion of behaviour change techniques (BCTs) may improve effectiveness of interventions but this has not yet been systematically evaluated. Data from other time-critical conditions may be relevant.

Methods and analysis

A systematic review will be undertaken to identify which BCTs are associated with effective interventions to reduce patient delay (or prompt rapid help-seeking) among people with time-critical conditions (eg, chest pain, ACS, lumps, stroke, cancer and meningitis). A systematic search of a wide range of databases (including Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycInfo) and grey literature will be undertaken to identify all relevant intervention studies (randomised controlled trials, controlled clinical trials and cohort studies). Two independent reviewers will screen abstracts to identify relevant studies, apply inclusion criteria to full papers, assess methodological quality and extract data.

Primary outcome measure

Change in patient decision time BCTs reported in each of the included studies will be categorised and presented according to the latest reliable taxonomy. Results of included studies will be synthesised, exploring relationships between inclusion of each BCT and effectiveness of the overall intervention. Where possible, means and SDs for differences in delay time will be calculated and combined within meta-analyses to derive a standardised mean difference and 95% CI. Analysis of (1) all time-critical and (2) ACS-only interventions will be undertaken.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical issues are anticipated. Results will be submitted for publication in a relevant peer-reviewed journal.
The effect of bivalirudin and closure device on bleeding outcomes after percutaneous coronary interventions
Authors: Dobies David R , Barber Kimberly R , Cohoon Amanda L
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Studies have demonstrated bivalirudin efficacy in some patients at increased risk of bleeding. The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which bleeding reduction is achieved among all patients using bivalirudin as compared with a heparin with or without 2B3A inhibitor strategy.

Methods

This is a real-world, large-scale retrospective study utilising the American College of Cardiology (ACC) data from a 37-hospital Ascension Health System. The registry represents routine clinical practice between 1 June 2009 and 30 June 2012. End points included major bleeding, major adverse cardiac events and death. Multivariate regression analysis modelled on predictors of end points.

Results

This study included 58 862 PCI procedures. Major bleeding rates were lowest for bivalirudin plus closure device overall (OR=0.53, CI 0.21 to 0.84, p=0.001). The use of a device for access closure contributed to the greatest declines in major bleeding. Compared with heparin with device, bivalirudin with device had a significantly lower rate of bleeding (OR=0.37, CI 0.18 to 0.74, p=0.005). The use of device had a greater effect on decreasing bleeding among patients receiving bivalirudin compared with heparin, especially among women (p=0.001). After adjustment for 2B3A use, this advantage was no longer significant in ST segment elevation myocardial infarction patients (OR=1.8, CI 0.5 to 6.0, p=0.34).

Conclusions

All risk groups in this real world database representing current clinical practice benefited from the use of bivalirudin and device closure with lower risk groups benefiting the most. This robust analysis of real-world clinical data supports a combined treatment strategy of bivalirudin and closure device.
Administration of commercial Rhodococcus equi specific hyperimmune plasma results in variable amounts of IgG against pathogenic bacteria in foals
Authors: Sanz M. G. , Oliveira A. F. , Page A. , Horohov D. W.
Published: August 2014

Rhodococcus equi is the most common cause of pneumonia in young foals. A vaccine is not available and the use of R equi‐ specific hyperimmune plasma (HIP) is common. Despite its widespread use, the efficacy of HIP in preventing disease remains controversial. The objectives of this study were (1) to evaluate the virulence associate protein A (VapA)‐specific IgG and IgG subclasses in commercially available R equi HIP and (2) to evaluate serum VapA‐specific IgG and IgG subclasses in foals following administration of commercial R equi HIP. Three different lots from four commercial R equi HIP were sampled. VapA‐specific IgG and IgG subclasses were evaluated in all samples using an ELISA. Serum was collected from newborn foals either after commercial R equi HIP was administered (n=97) or not (n=70). Serum was also collected from each mare. Administration of HIP significantly (P<0.001) increased VapA‐specific IgGs in recipient foals, however, there was a marked variation in VapA‐specific IgGs in foals receiving the same product. VapA‐specific IgGs were significantly different (P<0.001) between products and varied between lots, with coefficients of variation ranging from 17 to 123 per cent. These results may explain previously reported disparities in HIP efficacy.
Evaluation of low-cost consumer-level mobile phone technology for measuring international roughness index (IRI) values
Authors: Hanson Trevor , Cameron Coady , Hildebrand Eric
Published: August 2014

International roughness index (IRI) values were calculated from multi-step processing of accelerometer data collected using three smartphone devices in three consumer vehicles under 11 test scenarios on a 1000 m stretch of secondary highway in New Brunswick. These data were compared to IRI data from a Class 1 inertial profiler averaged over 1000 m (2.60 m/km, std. dev. = 0.029). The combinations of factors producing average IRI values closest to Class 1 inertial profiler were the compact car, Galaxy SIII, windshield mount, at 80 km/h (2.58 m/km, std. dev. = 0.075) and the SUV, iPhone 5, windshield mount, at 50 km/h (2.63 m/km, std. dev. = 0.054). Changes in device type, vehicle type, and mounting arrangement significantly impacted IRI variance, while vehicle speed (50 km/h and 80 km/h) did not. The development of correction factors and analysis automation could make these devices a low-cost option for real-time network-level pavement management.
Empirical models of albedo transitions in managed boreal forests: analysis of performance and transportability
Authors: Bright Ryan M. , Antón-Fernández Clara , Astrup Rasmus , Strømman Anders H.
Published: August 2014

Managing boreal forests for effective climate change mitigation requires comprehension of the full spectrum of climate regulation services that they provide, which includes both the storage of carbon and exchanges of heat and moisture with the atmosphere. It is increasingly recognized that surface albedo is the most important biogeophysical mechanism by which the boreal forest directly influences the global energy balance. Forest management decisions that influence age class and species distributions affect not only the carbon sink capacity, but also the albedo (and hence climate services) of the forested landscape. Disregarding albedo and how it is influenced by management decisions can have profound implications for the effectiveness of any climate change mitigation policy involving active forest management. Here, we explore, analyze, and compare the albedo predicted by simple empirical models with in situ and remotely sensed albedo observations in regions outside the region in which the models were originally developed (southeastern Norway), including boreal Canada and Europe. We find that the models are robust in their ability to predict the longer term interannual trends in the mean winter–summer albedo amplitude, the rapid albedo evolution in young stands, and the timing of seasonal transitions and weak with respect to capturing interannual albedo changes linked to seasonal climate variability and phenology.
A general method for assessing the effects of uncertainty in individual-tree volume model predictions on large-area volume estimates with a subtropical forest illustration
Authors: McRoberts Ronald E. , Moser Paolo , Zimermann Oliveira Laio , Vibrans Alexander C.
Published: August 2014

Forest inventory estimates of tree volume for large areas are typically calculated by adding the model predictions of volumes for individual trees at the plot level, calculating the mean over plots, and expressing the result on a per unit area basis. The uncertainty in the model predictions is generally ignored, with the result that the precision of the large-area volume estimate is optimistic. The primary study objective was to assess the performance of a Monte Carlo based approach for estimating model prediction error that had been developed for boreal and temperate forest applications when used for a subtropical forest application. Monte Carlo simulation approaches were used because of the complexities associated with multiple sources of uncertainty, the nonlinear nature of the models, and heteroskedasticity. A related objective was to estimate the effects of model prediction uncertainty due to residual and parameter uncertainty on the large-area volume estimates for the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. The primary conclusions were fourfold. First, the methodological approach worked well. Second, the effects of model residual and parameter uncertainty on large-area estimates of mean volume per unit area were negligible for the models and calibration datasets used for the study. Third, for the models currently in use in Santa Catarina, the effects of model residual and parameter uncertainty may be ignored when calculating large-area estimates of mean volume per unit area. Fourth, differences were negligible between estimates of the mean and standard error obtained using a single, nonspecific volume model and estimates obtained using both forest-type models and species-specific/species-group models.
Cloning and expression of a trehalose synthase from Pseudomonas putida KT2440 for the scale-up production of trehalose from maltose
Authors: Wang Tengfei , Jia Shiru , Dai Kun , Liu Hongjuan , Wang Ruiming
Published: August 2014

Trehalose synthase (TreS) is considered to be a potential biocatalyst for trehalose production. We aimed to scale-up produce the TreS protein in Escherichia coli and further investigate the bioconversion capacity of TreS. The treS gene from Pseudomonas putida KT2440 was amplified and expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3). The recombinant TreS showed a molecular mass of 67 kDa. Activity analysis suggested that TreS had optimal activity at a temperature of 55 °C, a pH of 7.4, with a substrate concentration of 30%. High-pressure liquid chromatography results indicated that this enzyme had the ability to catalyze 59% maltose into trehalose, with about 5.1% glucose as by-product. Purification analysis showed that trehalose crystals with a purity of 98% were obtained by cooling trehalose solution. The TreS from P. putida KT2440 might be a candidate for trehalose production. Further study is needed to improve the trehalose conversion rate.
Qualitative analysis of gain spectra of InGaAlAs/InP lasing nano-heterostructure
Authors: Lal Pyare , Yadav Rashmi , Sharma Meha , Rahman F. , Dalela S. , Alvi P. A.
Published: August 2014

This paper deals with the studies of lasing characteristics along with the gain spectra of compressively strained and step SCH based In 0.71 Ga 0.21 Al 0.08 As/InP lasing nano-heterostructure within TE polarization mode, taking into account the variation in well width of the single quantum well of the nano-heterostructure. In addition, the compressive conduction and valence bands dispersion profiles for quantum well of the material composition In 0.71 Ga 0.21 Al 0.08 As at temperature 300 K and strain ~1.12% have been studied using 4 × 4 Luttinger Hamiltonian. For the proposed nano-heterostructure, the quantum well width dependence of differential gain, refractive index change and relaxation oscillation frequency with current density have been studied. Moreover, the G–J characteristics of the nano-heterostructure at different well widths have also been investigated, that provided significant information about threshold current density, threshold gain and transparency current density. The results obtained in the study of nano-heterostructure suggest that the gain and relaxation oscillation frequency both are decreased with increasing quantum well width but the required lasing wavelength is found to shift towards higher values. On behalf of qualitative analysis of the structure, the well width of 6 nm is found more suitable for lasing action at the wavelength of 1.55 μm due to minimum optical attenuation and minimum dispersion within the waveguide. The results achieved are, therefore, very important in the emerging area of nano-optoelectronics.
Multiferroic hexagonal ferrites (h-RFeO3,R=Y,Dy-Lu): a brief experimental review
Authors: Xu Xiaoshan , Wang Wenbin
Published: August 2014

Hexagonal ferrites ( h - RFeO3, R = Y , Dy - Lu ) have recently been identified as a new family of multiferroic complex oxides. The coexisting spontaneous electric and magnetic polarizations make h - RFeO3rare-case ferroelectric ferromagnets at low temperature. Plus the room-temperature multiferroicity and the predicted magnetoelectric effect, h - RFeO3are promising materials for multiferroic applications. Here we review the structural, ferroelectric, magnetic and magnetoelectric properties of h - RFeO3. The thin film growth is also discussed because it is critical in making high quality single crystalline materials for studying intrinsic properties.
A Multi-Agent-Based Research on Tourism Supply Chain Risk Management
Authors: Biao Luo , Liang Wan , Liang Liang
Published: August 2014

The high level of complexity of tourism supply chain and the inherent risks that exist in the demand and supply of resources are viewed as major limiting factors in achieving high level performance. Though emerging literature on risk management in tourism industry or its equivalent exists, progress in this area is uneven, as most research focuses on this problem from the traditional single business risk management perspective, without considering the entire range of different suppliers involved in the provision and consumption of tourism products. This study applies risk management theory to a new research perspective, which is tourism supply chain management (SCM). This paper develops a framework for the design of a multi-agent-based decision support system (DSS) based on multi-agent theory and technique, in order to manage disruptions and mitigate risks in tourism supply chain.
Supplier Selection and Competitiveness — A Case Study on the Surface Mount Industry
Authors: Chen Gary Yu-Hsin , Wee Hui-Ming , Lee Chun Yao
Published: August 2014

This research investigates the supplier selection criteria in the surface mount technology (SMT) industry by conducting in-depth interviews with experts to design the questionnaire for collecting data. Questionnaires are then sent to a selected list of SMT companies in Taiwan. The data are then analyzed through statistical methods. Additionally, the factor analysis is used to extract major components and construct the evaluation criteria, which includes five main categories and 41 evaluation indicators. The Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis is also used to consider factors that affect strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of logistics in a firm. Those factors include competitions between the existing competitors, threats from potential entrants, and threats from the alternatives. The five forces analysis is conducted to survey the bargaining power of the buyers. The study compiles views and recommendations from supplier management professionals in SMT industry, as well as their work experiences, enterprises' existing mode of operation and other relevant information. The compiled recommendations and statistical results may provide guidelines for suppliers' selection in the SMT industry.
New JIT, New Management Technology Principle
Authors: Amasaka Kakuro
Published: August 2014

The aim of this paper is to reassess the way management technology was carried out in the manufacturing industry and establish "New JIT, New Management Technology Principle". New JIT contains hardware and software systems as the next generation technical principles for accelerating the optimization of work process cycles of all the divisions. The first item, the hardware system, consists of the Total Development System (TDS), the Total Production System (TPS), and the Total Marketing System (TMS), which are the three core elements required for establishing new management technology principles for sales, R&D, design, engineering, and production, among others. For the second item, the strategic quality management system, the author is proposing "Science TQM, New Quality Management Principle" incorporating "Science SQC, New Quality Control Principle". To realize manufacturing that places top priority on customers with a good Quality, Cost, and Delivery (QCD) in a rapidly changing technical environment, the author proposes a high linkage model, employing a structured "integrated triple management technologies system — Advanced TDS, Advanced TPS, and Advanced TMS" for expanding "uniform quality worldwide and production at optimumlocations".
Exact solution of a master equation applied to the two-level system of an atom
Authors: Fujii Kazuyuki
Published: August 2014

In this paper we discuss a master equation applied to the two-level system of an atom and derive an exact solution to it in an abstract manner. We also present a problem and a conjecture based on the three-level system. Our results may give a small hint to understand the huge transition from Quantum World to Classical World. To the best of our knowledge this is the finest method up to the present.
MOLECULAR DYNAMICS ANALYSIS FOR FRACTURE BEHAVIOR OF GRAPHENE SHEETS WITH V-SHAPED NOTCHES UNDER TENSION
Authors: FANG TE-HUA , CHANG WIN-JIN , LIN KAI-PENG , WENG CHENG-I
Published: August 2014

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are performed to study the fracture behavior of armchair and zigzag graphene sheets with V-shaped notches subjected to tensile loading. The effects of temperature and notches depth on the fracture characteristics of the graphene sheets are examined. The results show that the cracks propagate from the notch tip along the direction perpendicular to the loading axis for armchair sheets. This is different from the zigzag graphene propagating along the direction of 45° from the loading axis. In addition, the fracture energy of zigzag graphene sheets is larger than armchair one at the same temperature condition.
Development of quasi-two-dimensional Nb2O5 nanoflakes with thickness-depended electro-chemical properties
Authors: Zhuiykov Serge , Kats Eugene , Sato Tomoaki , Ikeda Hiroshi , Miura Norio
Published: August 2014

Quasi-two-dimensional (Q2D) Nb 2 O 5 nanoflakes were synthesized by combined sol–gel/exfoliation method with the average thickness of 10–25 nm. Their structural, surface- and electro-chemical properties were closely studied and analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), conductive atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy techniques.
Enhanced thermoelectric properties of n-type Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 by indium and sodium co-doping
Authors: Duan Xingkai , Hu Konggang , Ding Shifeng , Man Dahu , Zhang Wangnian , Ma Mingliang
Published: August 2014

Bi (1.98-x) In 0.02 Na x Te 2.7 Se 0.3 (x = 0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06) and Bi 2 Te 2.7 Se 0.3 alloys were prepared by vacuum melting and hot pressing methods. The phase structure of the bulk samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction. Effects of indium and sodium co-substitutions for bismuth on the electrical and thermal transport properties were investigated in the temperature range of 298–473 K. Indium and sodium co-doping can enhance the carrier concentration, and accordingly the electrical conductivity can be improved effectively. The Seebeck coefficients of the co-doped samples have not been derogated strongly. The power factors are enhanced for the Bi (1.98-x) In 0.02 Na x Te 2.7 Se 0.3 (x = 0.02) within the whole testing temperature range. The Bi (1.98-x) In 0.02 Na x Te 2.7 Se 0.3 (x = 0.02) samples have the lower thermal conductivity due to reduction in lattice thermal conductivity, which leads to a great improvement in the thermoelectric figure of merit ZT. The highest ZT of the sample can reach 0.87 at 398 K.
Permeability, compressibility and porosity of Jurassic shale from the Norwegian–Danish Basin
Authors: Mbia Ernest N. , Fabricius Ida L. , Krogsbøll Anette , Frykman Peter , Dalhoff Finn
Published: August 2014

The Fjerritslev Formation in the Norwegian–Danish Basin forms the main seal to Upper Triassic–Lower Jurassic sandstone reservoirs. In order to estimate the sealing potential and rock properties, samples from the deep wells Vedsted-1 in Jylland, and Stenlille-2 and Stenlille-5 on Sjælland, were studied and compared to samples from Skjold Flank-1in the Central North Sea. Mineralogical analyses based on X-ray diffractometry (XRD) show that onshore shales from the Norwegian–Danish Basin are siltier than offshore shales from the Central Graben. Illite and kaolinite dominate the clay fraction. Porosity measurements obtained using helium porosimetry–mercury immersion (HPMI), mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques on the shale samples show that MICP porosity is 6–10% lower than HPMI or NMR porosity. Compressibility, from uniaxial loading, and elastic wave velocities were measured simultaneously on saturated samples under drained conditions at room temperature. Uniaxial loading tests indicate that shale is significantly stiffer
in situ
than is normally assumed in geotechnical modelling. Permeability can be predicted from elastic moduli, and from combined MICP and NMR data. The permeability predicted from Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET)-specific surface-area measurements using Kozeny’s formulation for these shales, being rich in silt and kaolinite, falls in the same order of magnitude as permeability measured from constant rate of strain (CRS) experiments but is two–three orders of magnitude higher than the permeability predicted from the 1998 model of Yang & Aplin, which is based on clay fraction and average pore radius. When interpreting CRS data, Biot’s coefficient has a significant and systematic influence on the resulting permeability of deeply buried shale.
Thyrostimulin deficiency does not alter peripheral responses to acute inflammation-induced nonthyroidal illness
Authors: van Zeijl Clementine J. J. , Surovtseva Olga V. , Kwakkel Joan , van Beeren Hermina C. , Duncan Bassett J. H. , Williams Graham R. , Wiersinga Wilmar M. , Fliers Eric , Boelen Anita
Published: August 2014

Thyrostimulin, a putative glycoprotein hormone, comprises the subunits GPA2 and GPB5 and activates the TSH receptor (TSHR). The observation that proinflammatory cytokines stimulate GPB5 transcription suggested a role for thyrostimulin in the pathogenesis of nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS). In the present study, we induced acute inflammation by LPS administration to GPB5−/−and WT mice to evaluate the role of thyrostimulin in peripheral thyroid hormone metabolism during NTIS. In addition to serum thyroid hormone concentrations, we studied mRNA expression and activity of deiodinase types I, II, and III (D1, D2, and D3) in peripheral T3target tissues, including liver, muscle, and white and brown adipose tissue (WAT and BAT), of which the latter three express the TSHR. LPS decreased serum free (f)T4and fT3indexes to a similar extent in GPB5−/−and WT mice. Serum reverse (r)T3did not change following LPS administration. LPS also induced significant alterations in tissue D1, D2, and D3 mRNA and activity levels, but only the LPS-induced increase in WAT D2 mRNA expression differed between GPB5−/−and WT mice. In conclusion, lacking GPB5 during acute illness does not affect the LPS-induced decrease of serum thyroid hormones while resulting in subtle changes in tissue D2 expression that are unlikely to be mediated via the TSHR.
Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein protects against vascular inflammation and insulin resistance
Authors: Cheng Andrew M. , Rizzo-DeLeon Norma , Wilson Carole L. , Lee Woo Je , Tateya Sanshiro , Clowes Alexander W. , Schwartz Michael W. , Kim Francis
Published: August 2014

Among the pleotropic effects of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) is protection against vascular inflammation during high-fat diet (HFD) feeding. The current work investigated the role of the enzyme vasodilatory-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) as a downstream mediator of the anti-inflammatory effect of NO signaling in vascular tissue. Relative to mice fed a low-fat diet (LFD), levels of VASP Ser239 phosphorylation, a marker of VASP activation, were dramatically reduced in aortic tissue of mice with obesity induced by consuming a HFD. As reported previously, the effect of the HFD was associated with increased aortic inflammation, as measured by increased NF-κB-dependent gene expression, and reduced vascular insulin sensitivity (including insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of eNOS and Akt). These effects of the HFD were recapitulated by VASP knockout, implying a physiological role for VASP to constrain inflammatory signaling and thereby maintain vascular insulin sensitivity. Conversely, overexpression of VASP in endothelial cells blocked inflammation and insulin resistance induced by palmitate. The finding that transplantation of bone marrow from VASP-deficient donors into normal recipients does not recapitulate the vascular effects of whole body VASP deficiency suggests that the protective effects of this enzyme are not mediated in immune or other bone marrow-derived cells. These studies implicate VASP as a downstream mediator of the NO/cGMP pathway that is both necessary and sufficient to protect against vascular inflammation and insulin resistance. As such, this work identifies VASP as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of obesity-related vascular dysfunction.
Consensus Analysis of High‐Order Multiagent Systems with General Topology and Asymmetric Time‐Delays
Authors: Jiang Fangcui
Published: August 2014

This paper focuses on the consensus problem for high‐order multiagent systems (MAS) with directed network and asymmetric time‐varying time‐delays. It is proved that the high‐order multiagent system can reach consensus when the network topology contains a spanning tree and time‐delay is bounded. The main contribution of this paper is that a Lyapunov‐like design framework for the explicit selection of protocol parameters is provided. The Lyapunov‐like design guarantees the robust consensus of the high‐order multiagent system with respect to asymmetric time‐delays and is independent of the exact knowledge of the topology when the communication linkages among agents are undirected and connected.
Characterization of the Intergenic Spacer rDNAs of Two Pig Nodule Worms,Oesophagostomum dentatumandO. quadrispinulatum
Authors: Lin Rui-Qing , Shu Li , Zhao Guang-Hui , Cheng Tian , Zou Shang-Shu , Zhang Yuan , Weng Ya-Biao
Published: August 2014

The characteristics of the intergenic spacer rDNAs (IGS rDNAs) ofOesophagostomum dentatumandO. quadrispinulatumisolated from pigs in different geographical locations in Mainland China were determined, and the phylogenetic relationships of the two species were reconstructed using the IGS rDNA sequences. The organization of the IGS rDNA sequences was similar to their organization in other eukaryotes. The 28S-18S IGS rDNA sequences of bothO. dentatumandO. quadrispinulatumwere found to have variable lengths, that is, 759–762 bp and 937–1128 bp, respectively. All of the sequences contained direct repeats and inverted repeats. The length polymorphisms were related to the different numbers and organization of repetitive elements. Different types and numbers of repeats were found between the two pig nodule species, and two IGS structures were found withinO. quadrispinulatum. Phylogenetic analysis showed that allO. dentatumisolates were clustered into one clade, butO. quadrispinulatumisolates from different origins were grouped into two distinct clusters. These results suggested independent species and the existence of genotypes or subspecies within pig nodule worms. Different types and numbers of repeats and IGS rDNA structures could serve as potential markers for differentiating these two species of pig nodule worms.
Resource Management Scheme Based on Ubiquitous Data Analysis
Authors: Lee Heung Ki , Jung Jaehee , Yi Gangman
Published: August 2014

Resource management of the main memory and process handler is critical to enhancing the system performance of a web server. Owing to the transaction delay time that affects incoming requests from web clients, web server systems utilize several web processes to anticipate future requests. This procedure is able to decrease the web generation time because there are enough processes to handle the incoming requests from web browsers. However, inefficient process management results in low service quality for the web server system. Proper pregenerated process mechanisms are required for dealing with the clients’ requests. Unfortunately, it is difficult to predict how many requests a web server system is going to receive. If a web server system builds too many web processes, it wastes a considerable amount of memory space, and thus performance is reduced. We propose an adaptive web process manager scheme based on the analysis of web log mining. In the proposed scheme, the number of web processes is controlled through prediction of incoming requests, and accordingly, the web process management scheme consumes the least possible web transaction resources. In experiments, real web trace data were used to prove the improved performance of the proposed scheme.
Architect Critical Challenges as a Project Manager in Construction Projects: A Case Study
Authors: Yadollahi Mohammadreza , Mirghasemi Mohammad , Mohamad Zin Rosli , Singh Bachan
Published: August 2014

All construction professionals such as civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers, quantity surveyors, and architects have important roles in the construction process. Among these, architects are frequently appointed as a project manager (PM). The role of a PM will drive the success of the projects implementation. Therefore, the capability of an architect as a PM (ArPM) is critical in reducing challenges encountered. Accordingly, the identification of these challenges is an important task in selecting an appropriate ArPM. The aim of this study is to identify the most critical challenges faced by an ArPM for construction projects. The data were collected through questionnaires and interviews with architects and professionals in the Malaysian construction industry. Because of the fuzziness and uncertainty of subjective responses, Fuzzy Set Ttheory is applied to identify critical challenges. A total of 65 questionnaires were distributed and 36 questionnaires were returned. The results revealed that the critical challenges faced by an ArPM are “poor planning,” “unfamiliar technology,” “unfamiliarity with green buildings and materials,” “inappropriate scheduling,” and “poor workmanship.” All critical challenges were then categorized into six main groups including technical, managerial, personal skills, contractual, psychological, and financial.
Bound Alternative Direction Optimization for Image Deblurring
Authors: Zeng Xiangrong
Published: August 2014

This paper proposes a new method, bound alternative direction method (BADM), to address the ℓp  (p ∈ (0,1)) minimization problems in image deblurring. The approach is to first obtain a bound unconstrained problem through bounding
the ℓp regularizer by a novel majorizer and then, based on a variable splitting, to reformulate the bound unconstrained problem into a constrained one, which is then addressed via an augmented Lagrangian method. The proposed algorithm actually combines the reweighted ℓ1 minimization method and the alternating direction method of multiples (ADMM) such that it succeeds in extending the application of ADMM to ℓp minimization problems. The conducted experimental studies demonstrate the superiority of the proposed algorithm for the synthesis ℓp minimization over the state‐of‐the‐art algorithms for the synthesis ℓ1 minimization on image deblurring.