bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agent-Based Spatiotemporal Simulation of Biomolecular Systems within the Open Source MASON Framework
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez Gael , Pérez-Pérez Martín , Glez-Peña Daniel , Fdez-Riverola Florentino , Azevedo Nuno F. , Lourenço Anália
Published: March 2015

Agent-based modelling is being used to represent biological systems with increasing frequency and success. This paper presents the implementation of a new tool for biomolecular reaction modelling in the open source Multiagent Simulator of Neighborhoods framework. The rationale behind this new tool is the necessity to describe interactions at the molecular level to be able to grasp emergent and meaningful biological behaviour. We are particularly interested in characterising and quantifying the various effects that facilitate biocatalysis. Enzymes may display high specificity for their substrates and this information is crucial to the engineering and optimisation of bioprocesses. Simulation results demonstrate that molecule distributions, reaction rate parameters, and structural parameters can be adjusted separately in the simulation allowing a comprehensive study of individual effects in the context of realistic cell environments. While higher percentage of collisions with occurrence of reaction increases the affinity of the enzyme to the substrate, a faster reaction (i.e., turnover number) leads to a smaller number of time steps. Slower diffusion rates and molecular crowding (physical hurdles) decrease the collision rate of reactants, hence reducing the reaction rate, as expected. Also, the random distribution of molecules affects the results significantly.
Different Proportions of Huangqi (Radix Astragali Mongolici) and Honghua (Flos Carthami) Injection onα-Glucosidase andα-Amylase Activities
Authors: Liao Hui , Banbury Linda
Published: March 2015

Objective.To study the effect of different proportions of Huangqi (Radix Astragali Mongolici) and Honghua (Flos Carthami) injection onα-glucosidase andα-amylase activity simultaneously.Methods.The injections were prepared according to the standards of the China Food and Drug Administration. The assay for potentialα-glucosidase inhibitors was based on the hydrolysis of 4-methylumbelliferyl-α-D-glucopyranoside (4-MUG). Theα-amylase EnzChek assay kit was used to determine potentialα-amylase inhibitors. Acarbose was the positive control.Results.The half maximal (50%) inhibitory concentration (IC50) of acarbose againstα-glucosidase andα-amylase was (1.8±0.4)μg/mL and (227±32)μg/mL, respectively. Honghua showed significant inhibition ofα-glucosidase activity compared with Huangqi (P<0.01). Honghua inhibitedα-amylase activity, but Huangqi did not. IC50s forα-glucosidase inhibition by mixtures at 10 : 1, 5 : 1, and 2 : 1 were significantly lower than those at the 20 : 1 mixture (P<0.01).α-Amylase inhibition by the 2 : 1 mixture was significantly higher than that by the 20 : 1, 10 : 1, and 5 : 1 mixtures at 500 μg/mL and 1000 μg/mL (P<0.01), with 5 : 1 significantly higher than 20 : 1 and 10 : 1 at 1000 μg/mL (P<0.01).Conclusion.Honghua significantly inhibitedα-glucosidase activity compared with Huangqi (P<0.01). For simultaneous inhibition ofα-glucosidase andα-amylase activities, the mixtures at 2 : 1 and 5 : 1 exhibited significant effects compared with those at 20 : 1 (P<0.01).
Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy: An Underrecognized Clinicoradiologic Disorder
Authors: Wu Xiujuan , Wu Wei , Pan Wei , Wu Limin , Liu Kangding , Zhang Hong-Liang
Published: March 2015

Acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) is a rare but distinctive type of acute encephalopathy with global distribution. Occurrence of ANE is usually preceded by a virus‐associated febrile illness and ensued by rapid deterioration. However, the causal relationship between viral infections and ANE and the exact pathogenesis of ANE remain unclear; both environmental and host factors might be involved. Most cases of ANE are sporadic and nonrecurrent, namely, isolated or sporadic ANE; however, few cases are recurrent and with familial episodes. The recurrent and familial forms of ANE were found to be incompletely autosomal‐dominant. Further the missense mutations in the gene encoding the nuclear pore protein Ran Binding Protein 2 (RANBP2) were identified. Although the clinical course and the prognosis of ANE are diverse, the hallmark of neuroradiologic manifestation of ANE is multifocal symmetric brain lesions which are demonstrated by computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The treatment of ANE is still under investigation. We summarize the up‐to‐date knowledge on ANE, with emphasis on prompt diagnosis and better treatment of this rare but fatal disease.
A Reliability-Based Analysis of Bicyclist Red-Light Running Behavior at Urban Intersections
Authors: Huan Mei , Yang Xiaobao
Published: March 2015

This paper describes the red-light running behavior of bicyclists at urban intersections based on reliability analysis approach. Bicyclists’ crossing behavior was collected by video recording. Four proportional hazard models by the Cox, exponential, Weibull, and Gompertz distributions were proposed to analyze the covariate effects on safety crossing reliability. The influential variables include personal characteristics, movement information, and situation factors. The results indicate that the Cox hazard model gives the best description of bicyclists’ red-light running behavior. Bicyclists’ safety crossing reliabilities decrease as their waiting times increase. There are about 15.5% of bicyclists with negligible waiting times, who are at high risk of red-light running and very low safety crossing reliabilities. The proposed reliability models can capture the covariates’ effects on bicyclists’ crossing behavior at signalized intersections. Both personal characteristics and traffic conditions have significant effects on bicyclists’ safety crossing reliability. A bicyclist is more likely to have low safety crossing reliability and high violation risk when more riders are crossing against the red light, and they wait closer to the motorized lane. These findings provide valuable insights in understanding bicyclists’ violation behavior; and their implications in assessing bicyclists’ safety crossing reliability were discussed.
A Multiple-Starting-Path Approach to the Resource-Constrainedkth Elementary Shortest Path Problem
Authors: Tae Hyunchul , Kim Byung-In
Published: March 2015

The resource-constrained elementary shortest path problem (RCESPP) aims to determine the shortest elementary path from the origin to the sink that satisfies the resource constraints. The resource-constrainedkth elementary shortest path problem (RCKESPP) is a generalization of the RCESPP that aims to determine thekth shortest path when a set ofk-1shortest paths is given. To the best of our knowledge, the RCKESPP has been solved most efficiently by using Lawler’s algorithm. This paper proposes a new approach named multiple-starting-path (MSP) to the RCKESPP. The computational results indicate that the MSP approach outperforms Lawler’s algorithm.
Travel Distance on Each Grade Road of Urban City Based on Reliability
Authors: Xue-qin Long , Jian-jun Wang , Hong-zhi Guan
Published: March 2015

In order to reflect influence of travel time reliability on route choosing, considering traffic accidents’ influence under random state, we analyzed travel distance distribution regularity of each grade road, through traffic assignment. Travel time reliability model was produced and modified, considering the randomness of accidents, delay time, and capacity. The maximum preponderant travel range of each grade road was defined, and stochastic user equilibrium assignment was adopted to get travel turnover and distance, based on the corrected model. And then regulation of distance distribution was analyzed. Conclusion shows that reasonable travel distance of local way, distribution way, and primary way is 1 km, 2.28 km, and 3.54 km, respectively.
Training Effects on ROS Production Determined by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance in Master Swimmers
Authors: Mrakic-Sposta Simona , Gussoni Maristella , Porcelli Simone , Pugliese Lorenzo , Pavei Gaspare , Bellistri Giuseppe , Montorsi Michela , Tacchini Philippe , Vezzoli Alessandra
Published: March 2015

Acute exercise induces an increase in Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production dependent on exercise intensity with highest ROS amount generated by strenuous exercise. However, chronic repetition of exercise, that is, exercise training, may reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress. Aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 6-weeks high-intensity discontinuous training (HIDT), characterized by repeated variations of intensity and changes of redox potential, on ROS production and antioxidant capacity in sixteen master swimmers. Time course changes of ROS generation were assessed by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance in capillary blood by a microinvasive approach. An incremental arm-ergometer exercise (IE) until exhaustion was carried out at both before (PRE) and after (POST) training (Trg) period. A significant (P<0.01) increase of ROS production from REST to the END of IE in PRE Trg (2.82±0.66versus3.28±0.66 µmol·min−1) was observed. HIDT increased peak oxygen consumption (36.1±4.3versus40.6±5.7 mL·kg−1·min−1PRE and POST Trg, resp.) and the antioxidant capacity (+13%) while it significantly decreased the ROS production both at REST (−20%) and after IE (−25%). The observed link between ROS production, adaptive antioxidant defense mechanisms, and peak oxygen consumption provides new insight into the correlation between ROS response pathways and muscle metabolic function.
Origins and Implications of a Primary Crown-of-Thorns Starfish Outbreak in the Southern Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Miller Ian , Sweatman Hugh , Cheal Alistair , Emslie Mike , Johns Kerryn , Jonker Michelle , Osborne Kate
Published: March 2015

The crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) is a major predator of hard corals. Repeated COTS outbreaks in the Cairns and Central sections of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) have been responsible for greater declines in coral cover than any other type of disturbance, including cyclones, disease, and coral bleaching. Knowledge of the precise timing and location of primary outbreaks could reveal the initial drivers of outbreaks and so could indicate possible management measures. In the central GBR, COTS outbreaks appear to follow major flooding events, but despite many years of observations, no primary outbreak has ever been unequivocally identified in the central and northern GBR. Here we locate a primary outbreak of COTS on the southern GBR which is not correlated with flooding. Instead it appears to have been the result of a combination of life history traits of COTS and prevailing oceanographic conditions. The hydrodynamic setting implies that the outbreak could disperse larvae to other reefs in the region.
Assessment of Climate Change Effects on Water Resources in the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Wu Zhiyong , Xiao Heng , Lu Guihua , Chen Jinming
Published: March 2015

The water resources in the Yellow River basin (YRB) are vital to social and economic development in North and Northwest China. The basin has a marked continental monsoon climate and its water resources are especially vulnerable to climate change. Projected runoff in the basin for the period from 2001 to 2030 was simulated using the variable infiltration capacity (VIC) macroscale hydrology model. VIC was first calibrated using observations and then was driven by the precipitation and temperature projected by the RegCM3 high-resolution regional climate model under the IPCC scenario A2. Results show that, under the scenario A2, the mean annual temperature of the basin could increase by 1.6°C, while mean annual precipitation could decrease by 2.6%. There could be an 11.6% reduction in annual runoff in the basin according to the VIC projection. However, there are marked regional variations in these climate change impacts. Reductions of 13.6%, 25.7%, and 24.6% could be expected in the regions of Hekouzhen to Longmen, Longmen to Sanmenxia, and Sanmenxia to Huayuankou, respectively. Our study suggests that the condition of water resources in the YRB could become more severe in the period from 2001 to 2030 under the scenario A2.
The Prediction in Computer Color Matching of Dentistry Based on GA+BP Neural Network
Authors: Li Haisheng , Lai Long , Chen Li , Lu Cheng , Cai Qiang
Published: March 2015

Although the use of computer color matching can reduce the influence of subjective factors by technicians, matching the color of a natural tooth with a ceramic restoration is still one of the most challenging topics in esthetic prosthodontics. Back propagation neural network (BPNN) has already been introduced into the computer color matching in dentistry, but it has disadvantages such as unstable and low accuracy. In our study, we adopt genetic algorithm (GA) to optimize the initial weights and threshold values in BPNN for improving the matching precision. To our knowledge, we firstly combine the BPNN with GA in computer color matching in dentistry. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the proposed method improves the precision and prediction robustness of the color matching in restorative dentistry.
A Novel Psychovisual Threshold on Large DCT for Image Compression
Authors: Abu Nur Azman , Ernawan Ferda
Published: March 2015

A psychovisual experiment prescribes the quantization values in image compression. The quantization process is used as a threshold of the human visual system tolerance to reduce the amount of encoded transform coefficients. It is very challenging to generate an optimal quantization value based on the contribution of the transform coefficient at each frequency order. The psychovisual threshold represents the sensitivity of the human visual perception at each frequency order to the image reconstruction. An ideal contribution of the transform at each frequency order will be the primitive of the psychovisual threshold in image compression. This research study proposes a psychovisual threshold on the large discrete cosine transform (DCT) image block which will be used to automatically generate the much needed quantization tables. The proposed psychovisual threshold will be used to prescribe the quantization values at each frequency order. The psychovisual threshold on the large image block provides significant improvement in the quality of output images. The experimental results on large quantization tables from psychovisual threshold produce largely free artifacts in the visual output image. Besides, the experimental results show that the concept of psychovisual threshold produces better quality image at the higher compression rate than JPEG image compression.
Current Status and Future Potential of Energy Derived from Chinese Agricultural Land: A Review
Authors: Zhai Ningning , Mao Chunlan , Feng Yongzhong , Zhang Tong , Xing Zhenjie , Wang Yanhong , Zou Shuzhen , Yin Dongxue , Han Xinhui , Ren Guangxin , Yang Gaihe
Published: March 2015

Energy crisis is receiving attention with regard to the global economy and environmental sustainable development. Developing new energy resources to optimize the energy supply structure has become an important measure to prevent energy shortage as well as achieving energy conservation and emission reduction in China. This study proposed the concept of energy agriculture and constructed an energy agricultural technical support system based on the analysis of energy supply and demand and China’s foreign dependence on energy resources, combined with the function of agriculture in the energy field. Manufacturing technology equipment and agricultural and forestry energy, including crop or forestry plants and animal feces, were used in the system. The current status and future potential of China’s marginal land resources, energy crop germplasm resources, and agricultural and forestry waste energy-oriented resources were analyzed. Developing the function of traditional agriculture in food production may promote China’s social, economic, and environmental sustainable development and achieve energy saving and emission reduction.
Estimating the Capacity of Urban Transportation Networks with an Improved Sensitivity Based Method
Authors: Du Muqing , Jiang Xiaowei , Cheng Lin
Published: March 2015

The throughput of a given transportation network is always of interest to the traffic administrative department, so as to evaluate the benefit of the transportation construction or expansion project before its implementation. The model of the transportation network capacity formulated as a mathematic programming with equilibrium constraint (MPEC) well defines this problem. For practical applications, a modified sensitivity analysis based (SAB) method is developed to estimate the solution of this bilevel model. The high-efficient origin-based (OB) algorithm is extended for the precise solution of the combined model which is integrated in the network capacity model. The sensitivity analysis approach is also modified to simplify the inversion of the Jacobian matrix in large-scale problems. The solution produced in every iteration of SAB is restrained to be feasible to guarantee the success of the heuristic search. From the numerical experiments, the accuracy of the derivatives for the linear approximation could significantly affect the converging of the SAB method. The results also show that the proposed method could obtain good suboptimal solutions from different starting points in the test examples.
Crocetin Downregulates the Proinflammatory Cytokines in Methylcholanthrene-Induced Rodent Tumor Model and Inhibits COX-2 Expression in Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Chen Bing , Hou Zhao-Hui , Dong Zhe , Li Chun-Dong
Published: March 2015

The effect of crocetin (C20H24O4) on methylcholanthrene- (MCA-) induced uterine cervical cancer in mice was studied in this paper. After the mice were treated orally with crocetin, maleic dialdehyde (MDA), polymorphonuclear cells (PMN), interleukin-1β(IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) were examined by ELISA or immunohistochemistry. The inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activation inHeLacells was analyzed using fluorescence microscopy for light microscopic examination. The MCA mice showed a significant increase in plasma MDA, PMN, IL-1β, TNF-α, and nitrates levels. At the same time, the mRNA level of COX-2 inHeLacells was also significantly increased. These changes were attenuated by crocetin supplementation in the MCA mice. Crocetin supplementation in the MCA mice also showed protection against cervical cancer. These results suggest that crocetin may act as a chemopreventive and an anti-inflammatory agent.
Laser Teeth Bleaching: Evaluation of Eventual Side Effects on Enamel and the Pulp and the Efficiency In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: De Moor Roeland Jozef Gentil , Verheyen Jeroen , Verheyen Peter , Diachuk Andrii , Meire Maarten August , De Coster Peter Jozef , De Bruyne Mieke , Keulemans Filip
Published: March 2015

Light and heat increase the reactivity of hydrogen peroxide. There is no evidence that light activation (power bleaching with high‐intensity light) results in a more effective bleaching with a longer lasting effect with high concentrated hydrogen peroxide bleaching gels. Laser light differs from conventional light as it requires a laser‐target interaction. The interaction takes place in the first instance in the bleaching gel. The second interaction has to be induced in the tooth, more specifically in the dentine. There is evidence that interaction exists with the bleaching gel: photothermal, photocatalytical, and photochemical interactions are described. The reactivity of the gel is increased by adding photocatalyst of photosensitizers. Direct and effective photobleaching, that is, a direct interaction with the colour molecules in the dentine, however, is only possible with the argon (488 and 415 nm) and KTP laser (532 nm). A number of risks have been described such as heat generation. Nd:YAG and especially high power diode lasers present a risk with intrapulpal temperature elevation up to 22°C. Hypersensitivity is regularly encountered, being it of temporary occurrence except for a number of diode wavelengths and the Nd:YAG. The tooth surface remains intact after laser bleaching. At present, KTP laser is the most efficient dental bleaching wavelength.
Seismic Earth Pressures of Retaining Wall from Large Shaking Table Tests
Authors: Yang Changwei , Zhang Jian Jing , Honglue Qu , Junwei Bi , Feicheng Liu
Published: March 2015

To ascertain seismic response of retaining wall in the Wenchuan earthquake, large shaking table tests are performed and an acceleration record is acted in 3 directions. In the tests, acceleration time history recorded at Wolong station in the Wenchuan earthquake is used to excite the model wall. Results from the tests show that the location of dynamic resultant earth pressure is 0.35–0.49 H from toe of the wall for road shoulder retaining wall on rock foundation, 0.33–0.42 H for embankment retaining wall on rock foundation, and 0.46–0.77 H for road shoulder retaining wall on soil foundation. Besides, dynamic earth pressure increases with the increase of ground shaking from 0.1 g to 0.9 g and the relationship is nonlinear. The distribution is closed to for PGA less than 0.4 g but larger for PGA larger than and equal to 0.4 g, especially on the soil foundation. After the comparison of measured earth pressures and theoretical results by pseudodynamic method and pseudostatic method, results of the former are consistent with those of the shaking table test, but results of the latter method are smaller than measured.
Theragnostic Imaging Using Radiolabeled Antibodies and Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Yoshimoto Mitsuyoshi , Kurihara Hiroaki , Fujii Hirofumi
Published: March 2015

During the past decade, the efficacy of new molecular targeted drugs such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and monoclonal antibodies has been proven worldwide, and molecular targeted therapies have become the mainstream in cancer therapy. However, clinical use of these new drugs presents unexpected adverse effects or poor therapeutic effects. Therefore, we require diagnostic tools to estimate the target molecule status in cancer tissues and predict therapeutic efficacy and adverse effects. Although immunohistochemical, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analyses of biopsy samples are conventional and popular for this diagnostic purpose, molecular imaging modalities such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) are also useful for noninvasive estimation of gene and protein expression and drug pharmacokinetics. In this review, we introduce new radiolabeled TKIs, antibodies, and their clinical application in molecular targeted therapy and discuss the issues of these imaging probes.
Fault Diagnosis of Train Axle Box Bearing Based on Multifeature Parameters
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Jia Limin , Yang Xin
Published: March 2015

Failure of the train axle box bearing will cause great loss. Now, condition-based maintenance of train axle box bearing has been a research hotspot around the world. Vibration signals generated by train axle box bearing have nonlinear and nonstationary characteristics. The methods used in traditional bearing fault diagnosis do not work well with the train axle box. To solve this problem, an effective method of axle box bearing fault diagnosis based on multifeature parameters is presented in this paper. This method can be divided into three parts, namely, weak fault signal extraction, feature extraction, and fault recognition. In the first part, a db4 wavelet is employed for denoising the original signals from the vibration sensors. In the second part, five time-domain parameters, five IMF energy-torque features, and two amplitude-ratio features are extracted. The latter seven frequency domain features are calculated based on the empirical mode decomposition and envelope spectrum analysis. In the third part, a fault classifier based on BP neural network is designed for automatic fault pattern recognition. A series of tests are carried out to verify the proposed method, which show that the accuracy is above 90%.
Modeling and Simulation of a Resonant-Cavity-Enhanced InGaAs/GaAs Quantum Dot Photodetector
Authors: Wang W. W. , Guo F. M. , Li Y. Q.
Published: March 2015

We simulated and analyzed a resonant-cavity-enhancedd InGaAs/GaAs quantum dot n-i-n photodiode using Crosslight Apsys package. The resonant cavity has a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) at one side. Comparing with the conventional photodetectors, the resonant-cavity-enhanced photodiode (RCE-PD) showed higher detection efficiency, faster response speed, and better wavelength selectivity and spatial orientation selectivity. Our simulation results also showed that when an AlAs layer is inserted into the device structure as a blocking layer, ultralow dark current can be achieved, with dark current densities 0.0034 A/cm at 0 V and 0.026 A/cm at a reverse bias of 2 V. We discussed the mechanism producing the photocurrent at various reverse bias. A high quantum efficiency of 87.9% was achieved at resonant wavelength of 1030 nm with a FWHM of about 3 nm. We also simulated InAs QD RCE-PD to compare with InGaAs QD. At last, the photocapacitance characteristic of the model has been discussed under different frequencies.
Human Monocyte Heat Shock Protein 72 Responses to Acute Hypoxic Exercise after 3 Days of Exercise Heat Acclimation
Authors: Lee Ben J. , Mackenzie Richard W. A. , Cox Valerie , James Rob S. , Thake Charles D.
Published: March 2015

The aim of this study was to determine whether short-term heat acclimation (STHA) could confer increased cellular tolerance to acute hypoxic exercise in humans as determined via monocyte HSP72 (mHSP72) expression. Sixteen males were separated into two matched groups. The STHA group completed 3 days of exercise heat acclimation; 60 minutes cycling at 50%V˙O2peakin 40°C 20% relative humidity (RH). The control group (CON) completed 3 days of exercise training in 20°C, 40% RH. Each group completed a hypoxic stress test (HST) one week before and 48 hours following the final day of CON or STHA. Percentage changes in HSP72 concentrations were similar between STHA and CON following HST1(P=0.97). STHA induced an increase in basal HSP72(P=0.03)with no change observed in CON(P=0.218). Basal mHSP72 remained elevated before HST2 for the STHA group(P<0.05)and was unchanged from HST1 in CON(P>0.05). Percent change in mHSP72 was lower after HST2 in STHA compared to CON(P=0.02). The mHSP72 response to hypoxic exercise was attenuated following 3 days of heat acclimation. This is indicative of improved tolerance and ability to cope with the hypoxic insult, potentially mediated in part by increased basal reserves of HSP72.
Analysis of Antifungal Components in the Galls ofMelaphis chinensisand Their Effects on Control of Anthracnose Disease of Chinese Cabbage Caused byColletotrichum higginsianum
Authors: Kuo Ping-Chung , Hsieh Ting-Fang , Lin Mei-Chi , Huang Bow-Shin , Huang Jenn-Wen , Huang Hung-Chang
Published: March 2015

Fungal pathogens caused various diseases which resulted in heavy yield and quality losses on plants of commercial interests such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers. In our preliminary experimental results, the methanol extracts of four species of medicinal plantsMelaphis chinensis, Eugenia caryophyllata, Polygonum cuspidatum, andRheum officinalepossessed antifungal activity to causal agent of cabbage anthracnose,Colletotrichum higginsianum. Thus it was conducted to identify and quantify the chemical constituents in these herbs and to assess the antifungal effects of these compounds. Among the tested principles, the indicator compound methyl gallate fromM. chinensiswas the most effective one against the conidial germination. In addition, it exhibited significant effects of controlling anthracnose disease of Chinese cabbage caused byC. higginsianumPA-01 in growth chamber. These results indicate thatM. chinensismay be potential for further development of plant-derived pesticides for control of anthracnose of cabbage and other cruciferous crops.
Compositional Effects and Mechanical Parametric Analysis of Outwash Deposits Based on the Randomised Generation of Stone Blocks
Authors: Shi Chong , Bai Jinzhou
Published: March 2015

Based on the distribution of the stone blocks in outwash deposits, the paper present a modeling method for the random structure of outwash deposits, in which the long axis of the stone blocks is supposed obeying a lognormal distribution. Then numerical experiments of biaxial compression using the granular discrete element method are used in the macro- and micro parametric analysis. The influences of strength of the cementation, the sizes of stone blocks, and the content of stone blocks on the peak compressive and shear strength are discussed. The micromechanical parameters of the outwash deposits are also analyzed. The proposed method offers a supplement to the mechanical characterization of outwash deposits and accounts for the limitation that indoor experiments cannot consider large stone blocks.
A Fault Tolerance Optimization Model of the China Railway Geographic Network Topological Structure
Authors: Feng Fenling , Tang Ziwen , Wang Lei
Published: March 2015

With degree distribution characteristics of the China Railway geographic network, an optimization model from macro to micro is established on the relative entropy. Firstly, Poisson distribution of the China Railway geographic network is verified and fitted. Secondly, the “Twelfth Five-Year Plan” of the railway geographic network is chosen as an example on which a macro model is built. Finally, the “Twelfth Five-Year Plan” of Guangzhou Railway Group’s geographic network is chosen as the other example on which a micro model is built and our optimization scheme is proposed. Results reveal that, for improving the railway network fault tolerance, from the macroscopic aspect the “Twelfth Five-Year Plan” railway network should strengthen the railway agglomeration degree; then the microscopic optimization model is able to improve the fault tolerance effectively.
The Role of the Immune System in Triplet Repeat Expansion Diseases
Authors: Olejniczak Marta , Urbanek Martyna O. , Krzyzosiak Wlodzimierz J.
Published: March 2015

Trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders (TREDs) are a group of dominantly inherited neurological diseases caused by the expansion of unstable repeats in specific regions of the associated genes. Expansion of CAG repeat tracts in translated regions of the respective genes results in polyglutamine‐ (polyQ‐) rich proteins that form intracellular aggregates that affect numerous cellular activities. Recent evidence suggests the involvement of an RNA toxicity component in polyQ expansion disorders, thus increasing the complexity of the pathogenic processes. Neurodegeneration, accompanied by reactive gliosis and astrocytosis is the common feature of most TREDs, which may suggest involvement of inflammation in pathogenesis. Indeed, a number of immune response markers have been observed in the blood and CNS of patients and mouse models, and the activation of these markers was even observed in the premanifest stage of the disease. Although inflammation is not an initiating factor of TREDs, growing evidence indicates that inflammatory responses involving astrocytes, microglia, and the peripheral immune system may contribute to disease progression. Herein, we review the involvement of the immune system in the pathogenesis of triplet repeat expansion diseases, with particular emphasis on polyglutamine disorders. We also present various therapeutic approaches targeting the dysregulated inflammation pathways in these diseases.
On the Efficient Generation ofα-κ-μandα-η-μWhite Samples with Applications
Authors: de Souza Rausley Adriano Amaral , Ribeiro Antonio Marcelo Oliveira , Guimarães Dayan Adionel
Published: March 2015

This paper is concerned with a simple and highly efficient random sequence generator for uncorrelatedα-κ-μandα-η-μvariates. The algorithm may yield an efficiency of almost 100%, and this high efficiency can be reached for all special cases such asα-μ,  κ-μ,  η-μ, Nakagami-m, Nakagami-q, Weibull, Hoyt, Rayleigh, Rice, Exponential, and the One-Sided Gaussian. This generator is implemented via the rejection technique and allows for arbitrary fading parameters. The goodness-of-fit is measured using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Anderson-Darling tests. The maximum likelihood parameter estimation for theκ-μdistribution is proposed and verified against true values of the parameters chosen in the generator. We also provide two important applications for the random sequence generator, the first one dealing with the performance assessment of a digital communication system over theα-κ-μandα-η-μfading channels and the second one dealing with the performance assessment of the spectrum sensing with energy detection over special cases of these channels. Theoretical and simulation results are compared, validating again the accuracy of the generators.
Cardioprotective Effects of Voluntary Exercise in a Rat Model: Role of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2
Authors: Pósa Anikó , Szabó Renáta , Kupai Krisztina , Baráth Zoltán , Szalai Zita , Csonka Anett , Veszelka Médea , Gyöngyösi Mariann , Radák Zsolt , Ménesi Rudolf , Pávó Imre , Berkó Anikó Magyariné , Varga Csaba
Published: March 2015

Background. Regular exercise at moderate intensity reduces cardiovascular risks. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a major role in cardiac remodeling, facilitating physiological adaptation to exercise. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of voluntary physical exercise on the MMP-2 enzyme activity and to investigate the cardiac performance by measurement of angina susceptibility of the heart, the basal blood pressure, the surviving aorta ring contraction, and the cardiac infarct size after I/R-induced injury.Methods. Male Wistar rats were divided into control and exercising groups. After a 6-week period, the serum level of MMP-2, basal blood pressure, cardiac angina susceptibility (the ST segment depression provoked by epinephrine and 30 s later phentolamine), AVP-induced heart perfusion and aorta ring contraction, infarct size following 30 min ischemia and 120 min reperfusion, and coronary effluent MMP-2 activity were measured.Results. Voluntary wheel-running exercise decreased both the sera (64 kDa and 72 kDa) and the coronary effluent (64 kDa) MMP-2 level, reduced the development of ST depression, improved the isolated heart perfusion, and decreased the ratio of infarct size.Conclusion. 6 weeks of voluntary exercise training preserved the heart against cardiac injury. This protective mechanism might be associated with the decreased activity of MMP-2.
Evaluation of the Esthetic Properties of Developmental Defects of Enamel: A Spectrophotometric Clinical Study
Authors: Guerra Fabrizio , Mazur Marta , Corridore Denise , Pasqualotto Debora , Nardi Gianna Maria , Ottolenghi Livia
Published: March 2015

Objectives. Detailed clinical quantification of optical properties of developmental defect of enamel is possible with spectrophotometric evaluation. Developmental defects of enamel (DDE) are daily encountered in clinical practice. DDE are an alteration in quality and quantity of the enamel, caused by disruption and/or damage to the enamel organ during amelogenesis. Methods. Several clinical indices have been developed to categorize enamel defects based on their nature, appearance, microscopic features, or cause. A sample of 39 permanent teeth presenting DDE on labial surface was examined using the DDE Modified Index and SpectroShade evaluation. The spectrophotometric approach quantifies L* (luminosity), a* (quantity of green‐red), and b* (quantity of blue‐yellow) of different DDE. Conclusions. SpectroShade evaluation of the optical properties of the enamel defect enhances clinical understanding of severity and extent of the defect and characterizes the enamel alteration in terms of color discrepancy and surface characterization.
Maximum Principle for Optimal Control Problems of Forward-Backward Regime-Switching Systems Involving Impulse Controls
Authors: Wang Shujun , Wu Zhen
Published: March 2015

This paper is concerned with optimal control problems of forward-backward Markovian regime-switching systems involving impulse controls. Here the Markov chains are continuous-time and finite-state. We derive the stochastic maximum principle for this kind of systems. Besides the Markov chains, the most distinguishing features of our problem are that the control variables consist of regular and impulsive controls, and that the domain of regular control is not necessarily convex. We obtain the necessary and sufficient conditions for optimal controls. Thereafter, we apply the theoretical results to a financial problem and get the optimal consumption strategies.
Delay of Morphine Tolerance by Palmitoylethanolamide
Authors: Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo , Corti Francesca , Micheli Laura , Zanardelli Matteo , Ghelardini Carla
Published: March 2015

In spite of the potency and efficacy of morphine, its clinical application for chronic persistent pain is limited by the development of tolerance to the antinociceptive effect. The cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying morphine tolerance are complex and still unclear. Recently, the activation of glial cells and the release of glia-derived proinflammatory mediators have been suggested to play a role in the phenomenon.N-Palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) is an endogenous compound with antinociceptive effects able to reduce the glial activation. On this basis, 30 mg kg−1PEA was subcutaneously daily administered in morphine treated rats (10 mg kg−1intraperitoneally, daily). PEA treatment significantly attenuated the development of tolerance doubling the number of days of morphine antinociceptive efficacy in comparison to the vehicle + morphine group. PEA prevented both microglia and astrocyte cell number increase induced by morphine in the dorsal horn; on the contrary, the morphine-dependent increase of spinal TNF-αlevels was not modified by PEA. Nevertheless, the immunohistochemical analysis revealed significantly higher TNF-αimmunoreactivity in astrocytes of PEA-protected rats suggesting a PEA-mediated decrease of cytokine release from astrocyte. PEA intervenes in the nervous alterations that lead to the lack of morphine antinociceptive effects; a possible application of this endogenous compound in opioid-based therapies is suggested.
Synthesis of Novel Peptide Dendrimers PDL‐GB2 and PDL‐G2
Authors: Yunzhu Lin , Lingling Weng , Qingrong Qi
Published: March 2015

Peptide dendrimers are a novel type of macromolecules with precise structure, which can be used as drug target vector and controlled‐release carrier. So it is valuable to study. In this paper, novel peptide dendrimers PDL‐GB2 and PDL‐G2 were prepared according to divergent procedure with four‐orientation molecule as the core and L‐lysine as the branch unit. And the structures were identified by 1HNMR, 13CNMR, MS, and elemental analysis.
Resource Distribution, Interprovincial Trade, and Embodied Energy: A Case Study of China
Authors: Wu Sanmang , Lei Yalin , Li Li
Published: March 2015

Based on data from 2007 input-output tables for each province, we estimated the energy embodied in China’s interprovincial trade through input-output analysis. The results show that a sizable transfer of energy is embodied in China’s interprovincial trade, and the transfer goes from the central and western provinces, which have higher energy endowments, to the eastern and coastal provinces, which have more developed economies. The provinces with the greatest net inflow of embodied energy via interprovincial trade were Zhejiang, Guangdong, Beijing, Shandong, and Jiangsu. The provinces with the greatest net outflow of embodied energy were Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Xinjiang, and Heilongjiang. To effectively reduce China’s energy consumption, it is vital to adhere not only to the producer responsibility principle but also to the consumer responsibility principle. In particular, the economically developed provinces with substantial net inflows of embodied energy in interprovincial trade should provide support to the provinces from which the embodied energy outflows come.
Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Mortality in Diabetics and Nondiabetic Subjects: A Population-Based Study (Italy)
Authors: Ballotari Paola , Ranieri Sofia Chiatamone , Luberto Ferdinando , Caroli Stefania , Greci Marina , Giorgi Rossi Paolo , Manicardi Valeria
Published: March 2015

The objective of this study is to assess the impact of diabetes on cardiovascular mortality, focusing on sex differences. The inhabitants of Reggio Emilia province on December 31, 2009, aged 20–84 were followed up for three years for mortality. The exposure was determined using Reggio Emilia diabetes register. The age-adjusted death rates were estimated as well as the incidence rate ratios using Poisson regression model. Interaction terms for diabetes and sex were tested by the Wald test. People with diabetes had an excess of mortality, compared with nondiabetic subjects (all cause: IRR = 1.68; 95%CI 1.60–1.78; CVD: IRR = 1.61; 95%CI 1.47–1.76; AMI: IRR = 1.59; 95%CI 1.27–1.99; renal causes: IRR = 1.71; 95%CI 1.22–2.38). The impact of diabetes is greater in females than males for all causes (P=0.0321) and for CVD, IMA, and renal causes. Further studies are needed to investigate whether the difference in cardiovascular risk profile or in the quality of care delivered justifies the higher excess of mortality in females with diabetes compared to males.
Accurate Simulation of MPPT Methods Performance When Applied to Commercial Photovoltaic Panels
Authors: Cubas Javier , Pindado Santiago , Sanz-Andrés Ángel
Published: March 2015

A new, simple, and quick‐calculation methodology to obtain a solar panel model, based on the manufacturers’ datasheet, to perform MPPT simulations, is described. The method takes into account variations on the ambient conditions (sun irradiation and solar cells temperature) and allows fast MPPT methods comparison or their performance prediction when applied to a particular solar panel. The feasibility of the described methodology is checked with four different MPPT methods applied to a commercial solar panel, within a day, and under realistic ambient conditions.
Clustering Molecular Dynamics Trajectories for Optimizing Docking Experiments
Authors: De Paris Renata , Quevedo Christian V. , Ruiz Duncan D. , Norberto de Souza Osmar , Barros Rodrigo C.
Published: March 2015

Molecular dynamics simulations of protein receptors have become an attractive tool for rational drug discovery. However, the high computational cost of employing molecular dynamics trajectories in virtual screening of large repositories threats the feasibility of this task. Computational intelligence techniques have been applied in this context, with the ultimate goal of reducing the overall computational cost so the task can become feasible. Particularly, clustering algorithms have been widely used as a means to reduce the dimensionality of molecular dynamics trajectories. In this paper, we develop a novel methodology for clustering entire trajectories using structural features from the substrate-binding cavity of the receptor in order to optimize docking experiments on a cloud-based environment. The resulting partition was selected based on three clustering validity criteria, and it was further validated by analyzing the interactions between 20 ligands and a fully flexible receptor (FFR) model containing a 20 ns molecular dynamics simulation trajectory. Our proposed methodology shows that taking into account features of the substrate-binding cavity as input for thek-means algorithm is a promising technique for accurately selecting ensembles of representative structures tailored to a specific ligand.
Determination of Temperature-Dependent Stress State in Thin AlGaN Layer of AlGaN/GaN HEMT Heterostructures by Near-Resonant Raman Scattering
Authors: Liu Yanli , Yang Xifeng , Chen Dunjun , Lu Hai , Zhang Rong , Zheng Youdou
Published: March 2015

The temperature-dependent stress state in the AlGaN barrier layer of AlGaN/GaN heterostructure grown on sapphire substrate was investigated by ultraviolet (UV) near-resonant Raman scattering. Strong scattering peak resulting from the A1(LO) phonon mode of AlGaN is observed under near-resonance condition, which allows for the accurate measurement of Raman shifts with temperature. The temperature-dependent stress in the AlGaN layer determined by the resonance Raman spectra is consistent with the theoretical calculation result, taking lattice mismatch and thermal mismatch into account together. This good agreement indicates that the UV near-resonant Raman scattering can be a direct and effective method to characterize the stress state in thin AlGaN barrier layer of AlGaN/GaN HEMT heterostructures.
Photoelectric Characteristics of Double Barrier Quantum Dots-Quantum Well Photodetector
Authors: Wang M. J. , Yue F. Y. , Guo F. M.
Published: March 2015

The photodetector based on double barrier AlAs/GaAs/AlAs heterostructures and a layer self-assembled InAs quantum dots and In0.15Ga0.85As quantum well (QW) hybrid structure is demonstrated. The detection sensitivity and detection ability under weak illuminations have been proved. The dark current of the device can remain at 0.1 pA at 100 K, even lower to3.05×10-15 A, at bias of −1.35 V. Its current responsivity can reach about6.8×105 A/W when 1 pw 633 nm light power and −4 V bias are added. Meanwhile a peculiar amplitude quantum oscillation characteristic is observed in testing. A simple model is used to qualitatively describe. The results demonstrate that the InAs monolayer can effectively absorb photons and the double barrier hybrid structure with quantum dots in well can be used for low-light-level detection.
Comparative Studies on Thermal Performance of Conic Cut Twist Tape Inserts with SiO2 and TiO2 Nanofluids
Authors: Salman Sami D. , Kadhum Abdul Amir H. , Takriff Mohd S. , Mohamad Abu Bakar
Published: March 2015

This paper presents a comparison study on thermal performance conic cut twist tape inserts in laminar flow of nanofluids through a constant heat fluxed tube. Three tape configurations, namely, quadrant cut twisted tape (QCT), parabolic half cut twisted tape (PCT), and triangular cut twisted (VCT) of twist ratio y = 2.93 and cut depth de = 0.5 cm were used with 1% and 2% volume concentration of SiO2/water and TiO2/water nanofluids. Typical twist tape with twist ratio of y = 2.93 was used for comparison. The results show that the heat transfer was enhanced by increasing of Reynolds number and nanoparticles concentration of nanofluid. The results have also revealed that the use of twist tape enhanced the heat transfer coefficient significantly and maximum heat transfer enhancement was achieved by the presence of triangular cut twist tape insert with 2% volume concentration of SiO2 nanofluid. Over the range investigated, the maximum thermal performance factor of 5.13 is found with the simultaneous use of the SiO2 nanofluid at 2% volume concentration VCT at Reynolds number of 220. Furthermore, new empirical correlations for Nusselt number, friction factor, and thermal performance factor are developed and reported.