bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow Visualization and Heat Transfer Characteristics of Oscillating Fluid through Pin-Fin Array in a Rectangular Channel
Authors: Jeng Tzer-Ming , Tzeng Sheng-Chung , Hsu Wei-Ting , Xu Guan-Wei
Published: November 2013

This work experimentally investigated the fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of the pin-fin heat sink with the oscillating air flow. The oscillating air flow would be unstable in the passages among the fins due to the periodical change of flow rate. It might enhance the overall heat-transfer performance. At the present study, the pin-fin heat sinks with various fin heights were installed in the rectangular channel, resulting in different bypass clearances between the pin fins and the shroud of the test channel. The smoke flow visualizations for the oscillating-flow system were completed. The heat-transfer tests under the asymmetrically heated condition were performed to obtain the average Nusselt numbers. The smoke lines with obvious waves in the transverse direction were found in the results of the flow visualizations. By comparing to the steady flow system, there was about 20∼34% increment in the overall heat-transfer performance at the operating state without bypass clearance. However, if the bypass clearance was too big, the heat-exchange capacity of the oscillating flow was less than that of the steady flow. It demonstrates that the oscillating flow promotes the cooling performance of pin-fin heat sink at the non-bypass and specified bypass conditions.
A New Vehicle Intelligent Shift System
Authors: Hui Jin , Anlin Ge
Published: November 2013

The reasons to develop vehicle intelligent shift system were presented. A new vehicle intelligent shift system was developed, which included the shift subsystem of automatic transmission vehicle on the slope, on the low friction road, and in the turn situation. Also, the shift strategy based on the individual driving operation was developed. Furthermore, a hierarchical architecture of the developed intelligent shift system was proposed.
Infrared Thermography in the Architectural Field
Authors: Meola Carosena
Published: November 2013

Infrared thermography is becoming ever more popular in civil engineering/architecture mainly due to its noncontact character which includes two great advantages. On one side, it prevents the object, under inspection, from any alteration and this is worthwhile especially in the presence of precious works of art. On the other side, the personnel operate in a remote manner far away from any hazard and this complies well with safety at work regulations. What is more, it offers the possibility to quickly inspect large surfaces such as the entire facade of a building. This paper would be an overview of the use of infrared thermography in the architectural and civil engineering field. First, some basic testing procedures are described, and then some key examples are presented owing to both laboratory tests and applications in situ spanning from civil habitations to works of art and archaeological sites.
Changes in Frequency-Doubling Perimetry in Patients with Type I Diabetes prior to Retinopathy
Authors: Pinilla Isabel , Ferreras Antonio , Idoipe Miriam , Sanchez-Cano Ana I. , Perez-Garcia Diana , Herrera Laura X. , Pinilla Maria J. , Abecia Emilio
Published: November 2013

Purpose. To evaluate the ability of frequency-doubling technology (FDT) perimetry in detecting visual field defects in young adults with type I diabetes prior to retinopathy or with minor retinovascular changes.Methods. This comparative cross-sectional study included 30 healthy subjects and 73 age-matched patients with type I diabetes mellitus. All subjects underwent a full ocular examination including an FDT with the threshold C-20-5 strategy. Only one eye per subject was randomly included in the statistical analysis. FDT results and time to perform the test were compared between the groups.Results. The mean age was 27.1 years in the control group and 26.6 years in the diabetic group (P=0.875). The mean period from the onset of diabetes was12.6±6.7years, while minimal retinovascular changes were observed in 18 eyes. Mean deviation of FDT did not differ between the groups. Although global indices of FDT were within normal limits, pattern standard deviation of FDT was higher in the diabetic group (P=0.035). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.647 for pattern standard deviation of FDT (standard error = 0.052;P=0.017).Conclusion. FDT can detect retinal dysfunctions in diabetic patients prior to the onset of significant vascular complications.
Value of Diffusion‐Weighted MR Imaging for the Detection of Nephritis
Authors: Henninger Benjamin , Reichert Miriam , Haneder Stefan , Schoenberg Stefan O. , Michaely Henrik J.
Published: November 2013

Purpose. To evaluate diffusion‐weighted MR imaging (DWI‐MRI) for the detection and assessment of infectious renal disease. Materials and Methods. Twenty‐one patients with suspicious increased signal intensity of the kidneys on DWI sequences and corresponding ADC decrease were identified. Sixty patients without clinical signs of renal infection served as a control group. All patients were examined with the following sequences: EPI‐DWI (0/400/800 s/mm2), T2w HASTE, and T1w VIBE after intravenous injection of Gd‐chelate. Confirmation of renal infection was established on the basis of clinical criteria. T1w and T2w images were assessed and compared to DWI for the presence of altered signal, and the degree of the visibility of pathology was graded on an ordinal three‐point scale. Results. In all 21 patients with positive DWI findings a renal infection could be confirmed. T2w imaging and contrast‐enhanced T1w imaging displayed obvious pathologic signal in 3/21 (14%) and 11/19 (58%) patients and slightly pathologic signal in 17/21 (81%) and 7/19 (37%), respectively. The median visibility score of 2 for the DWI and the T1w images was significantly higher than the score of 1 for the T2w imaging, P = 0.0001 (DWI versus T2w) and P = 0.078 (T1w versus T2w). Conclusion. DWI of the kidneys seems to be highly sensitive for the detection of infections within the kidney.
A Case Study of Sensor Data Collection and Analysis in Smart City: Provenance in Smart Food Supply Chain
Authors: Zhang Qiannan , Huang Tian , Zhu Yongxin , Qiu Meikang
Published: November 2013

Accelerated growth of urban population in the world put incremental stresses on metropolitan cities. Smart city centric strategies are expected to comprise solutions to sustainable environment and urban life. Acting as an indispensable role in smart city, IoT (Internet of Things) connects the executive ability of the physical world and the intelligence of the computational world, aiming to enlarge the capabilities of things in real city and strengthen the practicality of functions in cyber world. One of the important application areas of IoT in cities is food industry. Municipality governors are withstanding all kinds of food safety issues and enduring the hardest time ever due to the lack of sufficient guidance and supervision. IoT systems help to monitor, analyze, and manage the real food industry in cities. In this paper, a smart sensor data collection strategy for IoT is proposed, which would improve the efficiency and accuracy of provenance with the minimized size of data set at the same time. We then present algorithms of tracing contamination source and back tracking potential infected food in the markets. Our strategy and algorithms are evaluated with a comprehensive evaluation case of this IoT system, which shows that this system performs well even with big data as well.
Immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood Test for Detection of Advanced Colonic Adenomas and Colorectal Cancer: Comparison with Colonoscopy Results
Authors: Viana Freitas Bianca Rosa , Kibune Nagasako Cristiane , Pavan Celia Regina , Silva Lorena Sônia Letícia , Guerrazzi Fabio , Saddy Rodrigues Coy Cláudio , Ayrizono Maria de Lourdes S. , Mesquita Maria Aparecida
Published: November 2013

Background. Fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) have been used for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in several countries. There is lack of information concerning diagnostic performances of this method in Brazil.Methods. Patients scheduled for elective colonoscopy provided one stool sample one week before colonoscopy. The accuracy of a qualitative FIT for detection of CRC and advanced adenomas was determined.Results. Overall 302 patients completed the study. Among them, 53.5% were high risk patients referred for screening or surveillance. Nine (3%) CRCs and 11 (3.6%) advanced adenomas were detected by colonoscopy. Sensitivity and specificity for CRC were, respectively, 88.9% and 87.6%. For advanced adenomas, sensitivity was 63.6% and specificity 87.6%.Conclusion. Our results showed good sensitivity and specificity of the FIT for detecting advanced neoplasias. This method may be a valuable tool for future screening programs in Brazil.
Sliding Mode Cooperative Control for Multirobot Systems: A Finite-Time Approach
Authors: Ghasemi Masood , Nersesov Sergey G.
Published: November 2013

Finite-time stability in dynamical systems theory involves systems whose trajectories converge to an equilibrium state in finite time. In this paper, we use the notion of finite-time stability to apply it to the problem of coordinated motion in multiagent systems. We consider a group of agents described by Euler-Lagrange dynamics along with a leader agent with an objective to reach and maintain a desired formation characterized by steady-state distances between the neighboring agents in finite time. We use graph theoretic notions to characterize communication topology in the network determined by the information flow directions and captured by the graph Laplacian matrix. Furthermore, using sliding mode control approach, we design decentralized control inputs for individual agents that use only data from the neighboring agents which directly communicate their state information to the current agent in order to drive the current agent to the desired steady state. We further extend these results to multiagent systems involving underactuated dynamical agents such as mobile wheeled robots. For this case, we show that while the position variables can be coordinated in finite time, the orientation variables converge to the steady states asymptotically. Finally, we validate our results experimentally using a wheeled mobile robot platform.
Positive Periodic Solutions of an Epidemic Model with Seasonality
Authors: Sun Gui-Quan , Bai Zhenguo , Zhang Zi-Ke , Zhou Tao , Jin Zhen
Published: November 2013

An SEI autonomous model with logistic growth rate and its corresponding nonautonomous model are investigated. For the autonomous case, we give the attractive regions of equilibria and perform some numerical simulations. Basic demographic reproduction number Rd is obtained. Moreover, only the basic reproduction number R0 cannot ensure the existence of the positive equilibrium, which needs additional condition Rd > R1. For the nonautonomous case, by introducing the basic reproduction number defined by the spectral radius, we study the uniform persistence and extinction of the disease. The results show that for the periodic system the basic reproduction number is more accurate than the average reproduction number.
Clinical, MRI, and CSF Markers of Disability Progression in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Gajofatto Alberto , Calabrese Massimiliano , Benedetti Maria Donata , Monaco Salvatore
Published: November 2013

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) in which the complex interplay between inflammation and neurodegeneration determines varying degrees of neurological disability. For this reason, it is very difficult to express an accurate prognosis based on purely clinical information in the individual patient at an early disease stage. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers are promising sources of prognostic information with a good potential of quantitative measure, sensitivity, and reliability. However, a comprehensive MS outcome prediction model combining multiple parameters is still lacking. Current relevant literature addressing the topic of clinical, MRI, and CSF markers as predictors of MS disability progression is reviewed here.
Transient Hemodynamic Changes upon Changing a BCPA into a TCPC in Staged Fontan Operation: A Computational Model Study
Authors: Liang Fuyou , Senzaki Hideaki , Yin Zhaofang , Fan Yuqi , Sughimoto Koichi , Liu Hao
Published: November 2013

The clinical benefits of the Fontan operation in treating single‐ventricle defects have been well documented. However, perioperative mortality or morbidity remains a critical problem. The purpose of the present study was to identify the cardiovascular factors that dominate the transient hemodynamic changes upon the change of a bidirectional cavopulmonary (Glenn) anastomosis (BCPA) into a total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC). For this purpose, two computational models were constructed to represent, respectively, a single‐ventricle circulation with a BCPA and that with a TCPC. A series of model‐based simulations were carried out to quantify the perioperative hemodynamic changes under various cardiovascular conditions. Obtained results indicated that the presence of a low pulmonary vascular resistance and/or a low lower‐body vascular resistance is beneficial to the increase in transpulmonary flow upon the BCPA to TCPC change. Moreover, it was found that ventricular diastolic dysfunction and mitral valve regurgitation, despite being well‐known risk factors for poor postoperative outcomes, do not cause a considerable perioperative reduction in transpulmonary flow. The findings may help physicians to assess the perioperative risk of the TCPC surgery based on preoperative measurement of cardiovascular function.
Investigation of the Shear Flow Effect and Tip Clearance on a Low Speed Axial Flow Compressor Cascade
Authors: Varpe Mahesh , Pradeep A. M.
Published: November 2013

This paper explores the effect of inlet shear flow on the tip leakage flow in an axial flow compressor cascade. A flow with a high shear rate is generated in the test section of an open circuit cascade wind tunnel by using a combination of screens with a prescribed solidity. It is observed that a stable shear flow of shear rate 1.33 is possible and has a gradual decay rate until 15 times the height of the shear flow generator downstream. The computational results obtained agree well with the available experimental data on the baseline configuration. The detailed numerical analysis shows that the tip clearance improves the blade loading near the tip through the promotion of favorable incidence by the tip leakage flow. The tip clearance shifts the centre of pressure on the blade surface towards the tip. It, however, has no effect on the distribution of end wall loss and deviation angle along the span up to 60% from the hub. In the presence of a shear inflow, the end wall effects are considerable. On the other hand, with a shear inflow, the effects of tip leakage flow are observed to be partly suppressed. The shear flow reduces the tip leakage losses substantially in terms of kinetic energy associated with it.
UHF-Band Wireless Power Transfer System for Structural Health Monitoring Sensor Network
Authors: Li Tansheng , Sawada Kikuzo , Ogai Harutoshi , Si Wa
Published: November 2013

For detecting and measuring health conditions of bridges, wireless sensor networks are used in these days. However, battery life is critically restricting the application and maintenance cost of sensor network systems. To extend life time, a wireless power transfer system at UHF band is introduced to supply the current wireless sensor network. This power transfer system is based on electric wave at 950 MHz. This power transfer system is redesigned for tiny power transmission, including a combination of a rectenna and a Cockcroft-Walton boost converter, battery board, and a control board. Also, current wireless sensor network is redesigned for power transfer system. The working flow of sensor network is modified to bottom-to-top to save power of sensor modules which are the power bottleneck of this sensor system. As a result, the system is able to support a sensor module continuously with received power of −14 dBmW, when the transmitting antenna is 30 dBmW at 10 meters distance.
Newspaper Coverage Effects on the Promotion of a Lifestyle Intervention Program
Authors: Dyrstad Sindre M. , Tjelta Leif I.
Published: November 2013

The study’s purpose was to measure the impact of an individually designed lifestyle intervention program on the readers of a regional newspaper. A newspaper with 180,000 daily readers covered a story about three untrained and overweight adults who participated in an individually designed lifestyle intervention program. Their goals were to become physically fit and run a half marathon (21.1 km) after 14 weeks of training. The newspaper published on average three weekly articles throughout the project period, including the weekly training program and a record of the physical improvements made by the participants. The number of hits on the project’s web site was recorded. Spin-off effects on the responses of readers were mapped. The project's web site had 25,000 unique weekly hits. Significant spin-off effects included the establishment of training groups which were still active after two years and the launch of a similar project by another regional newspaper. This individually designed lifestyle intervention program was successfully scaled up and reached a large number of the newspaper’s readers. The collaboration between a newspaper and exercise researchers could also be adapted to other press media and represents a novel approach to improve participation in physical activities.
Nexfin Noninvasive Continuous Hemodynamic Monitoring: Validation against Continuous Pulse Contour and Intermittent Transpulmonary Thermodilution Derived Cardiac Output in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Ameloot Koen , Van De Vijver Katrijn , Broch Ole , Van Regenmortel Niels , De laet Inneke , Schoonheydt Karen , Dits Hilde , Bein Berthold , Malbrain Manu L. N. G.
Published: November 2013

Introduction. Nexfin (Bmeye, Amsterdam, Netherlands) is a noninvasive cardiac output (CO) monitor based on finger arterial pulse contour analysis. The aim of this study was to validate Nexfin CO (NexCO) against thermodilution (TDCO) and pulse contour CO (CCO) by PiCCO (Pulsion Medical Systems, Munich, Germany). Patients and Methods. In a mix of critically ill patients (n = 45), NexCO and CCO were measured continuously and recorded at 2‐hour intervals during the 8‐hour study period. TDCO was measured at 0–4–8 hrs. Results. NexCO showed a moderate to good (significant) correlation with TDCO (R2 0.68, P < 0.001) and CCO (R2 0.71, P < 0.001). Bland and Altman analysis comparing NexCO with TDCO revealed a bias (± limits of agreement, LA) of 0.4 ± 2.32 L/min (with 36% error) while analysis comparing NexCO with CCO showed a bias (±LA) of 0.2 ± 2.32 L/min (37% error). NexCO is able to follow changes in TDCO and CCO during the same time interval (level of concordance 89.3% and 81%). Finally, polar plot analysis showed that trending capabilities were acceptable when changes in NexCO (ΔNexCO) were compared to ΔTDCO and ΔCCO (resp., 89% and 88.9% of changes were within the level of 10% limits of agreement). Conclusion. we found a moderate to good correlation between CO measurements obtained with Nexfin and PiCCO.
Aliphatic, Cyclic, and Aromatic Organic Acids, Vitamins, and Carbohydrates in Soil: A Review
Authors: Vranova Valerie , Rejsek Klement , Formanek Pavel
Published: November 2013

Organic acids, vitamins, and carbohydrates represent important organic compounds in soil. Aliphatic, cyclic, and aromatic organic acids play important roles in rhizosphere ecology, pedogenesis, food‐web interactions, and decontamination of sites polluted by heavy metals and organic pollutants. Carbohydrates in soils can be used to estimate changes of soil organic matter due to management practices, whereas vitamins may play an important role in soil biological and biochemical processes. The aim of this work is to review current knowledge on aliphatic, cyclic, and aromatic organic acids, vitamins, and carbohydrates in soil and to identify directions for future research. Assessments of organic acids (aliphatic, cyclic, and aromatic) and carbohydrates, including their behaviour, have been reported in many works. However, knowledge on the occurrence and behaviour of D‐enantiomers of organic acids, which may be abundant in soil, is currently lacking. Also, identification of the impact and mechanisms of environmental factors, such as soil water content, on carbohydrate status within soil organic matter remains to be determined. Finally, the occurrence of vitamins in soil and their role in biological and biochemical soil processes represent an important direction for future research.
Noise‐Assisted Concurrent Multipath Traffic Distribution in Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Asvarujanon Narun , Leibnitz Kenji , Wakamiya Naoki , Murata Masayuki
Published: November 2013

The concept of biologically inspired networking has been introduced to tackle unpredictable and unstable situations in computer networks, especially in wireless ad hoc networks where network conditions are continuously changing, resulting in the need of robustness and adaptability of control methods. Unfortunately, existing methods often rely heavily on the detailed knowledge of each network component and the preconfigured, that is, fine‐tuned, parameters. In this paper, we utilize a new concept, called attractor perturbation (AP), which enables controlling the network performance using only end‐to‐end information. Based on AP, we propose a concurrent multipath traffic distribution method, which aims at lowering the average end‐to‐end delay by only adjusting the transmission rate on each path. We demonstrate through simulations that, by utilizing the attractor perturbation relationship, the proposed method achieves a lower average end‐to‐end delay compared to other methods which do not take fluctuations into account.
An Analytic Model for Estimating the Length of the Velocity Saturated Region in Double Gate Bilayer Graphene Transistors
Authors: Saeidmanesh M. , Kiani M. J. , Siew Kang Eng , Akbari E. , Karimi H. , Ismail Razali
Published: November 2013

An analytical model for surface potential of asymmetric double gate Bilayer Graphene (BLG) transistors is presented on the basis of two‐dimensional Poisson’s equation. To verify the accuracy of potential model, the modelling data are compared with the simulation data of FlexPDE program and a good agreement is observed. From surface potential expression, the device behaviour in velocity saturation region is investigated. As a result, lateral electric field and length of velocity saturation region (Ld) are formulated and their dependence on several device parameters is carefully examined.
Drought Tolerance in Wheat
Authors: Nezhadahmadi Arash , Prodhan Zakaria Hossain , Faruq Golam
Published: November 2013

Drought is one of the most important phenomena which limit crops’ production and yield. Crops demonstrate various morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses to tackle drought stress. Plants’ vegetative and reproductive stages are intensively influenced by drought stress. Drought tolerance is a complicated trait which is controlled by polygenes and their expressions are influenced by various environmental elements. This means that breeding for this trait is so difficult and new molecular methods such as molecular markers, quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping strategies, and expression patterns of genes should be applied to produce drought tolerant genotypes. In wheat, there are several genes which are responsible for drought stress tolerance and produce different types of enzymes and proteins for instance, late embryogenesis abundant (lea), responsive to abscisic acid (Rab), rubisco, helicase, proline, glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST), and carbohydrates during drought stress. This review paper has concentrated on the study of water limitation and its effects on morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses of wheat with the possible losses caused by drought stress.
Dimensionality of the Wisconsin Schizotypy Scales‐Brief Forms in College Students
Authors: Fonseca-Pedrero Eduardo , Paino Mercedes , Ortuño-Sierra Javier , Lemos-Giráldez Serafín , Muñiz José
Published: November 2013

Wisconsin Schizotypy Scales are one of the most used measuring instruments for the assessment of psychometric risk for psychosis. The main goal of the present study was to analyze the internal structure of the Wisconsin Schizotypy Scales‐Brief (WSS‐B) forms and the reliability of the scores in a large sample of college students. The final sample was comprised by a total of 1349 students, 288 males, with a mean age of 20.48 years (SD = 2.58). The results indicated that the WSS‐B scores presented adequate psychometric properties. Cronbach’s alfa coefficient for total scores in WSS‐B ranged from 0.86 to 0.93. Analysis of the internal structure of the WSS‐B, through confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modeling, yielded a four factor solution (Magical Ideation, Perceptual Aberration, Social Anhedonia, and Physical Anhedonia) as the most adequate. Statistically significant differences in mean scores of WSS‐B by sex were found. These results provided new validity evidence of the WSS‐B scores in an independent sample of nonclinical young adults. The WSS‐B seems to be useful, brief, and easy to administrate for the screening of extended psychosis phenotype in the general population.
A Note on Decomposing a Square Matrix as Sum of Two Square Nilpotent Matrices over an Arbitrary Field
Authors: Song Xiaofei , Zheng Baodong , Cao Chongguang
Published: November 2013

Let K be an arbitrary field and X a square matrix over K. Then X is sum of two square nilpotent matrices over K if and only if, for every algebraic extension L of K and arbitrary nonzero α ∈ L, there exist idempotent matrices P1 and P2 over L such that X = αP1 − αP2.
Effect of Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine with Antiquorum Sensing Activity onPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Chu Weihua , Zhou Shuxin , Jiang Yan , Zhu Wei , Zhuang Xiyi , Fu Jiangyan
Published: November 2013

Traditional Chinese herbal medicines (TCHMs) were tested for their ability of antiquorum sensing. Water extracts ofRhubarb, Fructus gardeniae, and Andrographis paniculatashow antiquorumsensing activity when usingChromobacterium violaceumCV12472 as reporter; the sub-MIC concentrations of these TCHMs were tested against AHL-dependent phenotypic expressions of PAO1. Results showed significant reduction in pyocyanin pigment, protease, elastase production, and biofilm formation in PAO1 without inhibiting the bacterial growth, revealing that the QSI by the extracts is not related to static or killing effects on the bacteria. The results indicate a potential modulation of bacterial cell-cell communication,P. aeruginosabiofilm, and virulence factors by traditional Chinese herbal medicine. This study introduces not only a new mode of action for traditional Chinese herbal medicines, but also a potential new therapeutic direction for the treatment of bacterial infections, which have QSI activity and might be important in reducing virulence and pathogenicity of pathogenic bacteria.
Accelerated Aging during Chronic Oxidative Stress: A Role for PARP-1
Authors: Boesten Daniëlle M. P. H. J. , de Vos-Houben Joyce M. J. , Timmermans Leen , den Hartog Gertjan J. M. , Bast Aalt , Hageman Geja J.
Published: November 2013

Oxidative stress plays a major role in the pathophysiology of chronic inflammatory disease and it has also been linked to accelerated telomere shortening. Telomeres are specialized structures at the ends of linear chromosomes that protect these ends from degradation and fusion. Telomeres shorten with each cell division eventually leading to cellular senescence. Research has shown that poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) and subtelomeric methylation play a role in telomere stability. We hypothesized that PARP-1 plays a role in accelerated aging in chronic inflammatory diseases due to its role as coactivator of NF-κb and AP-1. Therefore we evaluated the effect of chronic PARP-1 inhibition (by fisetin and minocycline) in human fibroblasts (HF) cultured under normal conditions and under conditions of chronic oxidative stress, induced bytert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP). Results showed that PARP-1 inhibition under normal culturing conditions accelerated the rate of telomere shortening. However, under conditions of chronic oxidative stress, PARP-1 inhibition did not show accelerated telomere shortening. We also observed a strong correlation between telomere length and subtelomeric methylation status of HF cells. We conclude that chronic PARP-1 inhibition appears to be beneficial in conditions of chronic oxidative stress but may be detrimental under relatively normal conditions.
A Novel Boundary Oversampling Algorithm Based on Neighborhood Rough Set Model: NRSBoundary-SMOTE
Authors: Hu Feng , Li Hang
Published: November 2013

Rough set theory is a powerful mathematical tool introduced by Pawlak to deal with imprecise, uncertain, and vague information. The Neighborhood-Based Rough Set Model expands the rough set theory; it could divide the dataset into three parts. And the boundary region indicates that the majority class samples and the minority class samples are overlapped. On the basis of what we know about the distribution of original dataset, we only oversample the minority class samples, which are overlapped with the majority class samples, in the boundary region. So, the NRSBoundary-SMOTE can expand the decision space for the minority class; meanwhile, it will shrink the decision space for the majority class. After conducting an experiment on four kinds of classifiers, NRSBoundary-SMOTE has higher accuracy than other methods when C4.5, CART, and KNN are used but it is worse than SMOTE on classifier SVM.
Authentication of Nigella sativa Seed Oil in Binary and Ternary Mixtures with Corn Oil and Soybean Oil Using FTIR Spectroscopy Coupled with Partial Least Square
Authors: Rohman Abdul , Ariani Rizka
Published: November 2013

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) combined with multivariate calibration of partial least square (PLS) was developed and optimized for the analysis of Nigella seed oil (NSO) in binary and ternary mixtures with corn oil (CO) and soybean oil (SO). Based on PLS modeling performed, quantitative analysis of NSO in binary mixtures with CO carried out using the second derivative FTIR spectra at combined frequencies of 2977–3028, 1666–1739, and 740–1446 cm−1 revealed the highest value of coefficient of determination (R2, 0.9984) and the lowest value of root mean square error of calibration (RMSEC, 1.34% v/v). NSO in binary mixtures with SO is successfully determined at the combined frequencies of 2985–3024 and 752–1755 cm−1 using the first derivative FTIR spectra with R2 and RMSEC values of 0.9970 and 0.47% v/v, respectively. Meanwhile, the second derivative FTIR spectra at the combined frequencies of 2977–3028 cm−1, 1666–1739 cm−1, and 740–1446 cm−1 were selected for quantitative analysis of NSO in ternary mixture with CO and SO with R2 and RMSEC values of 0.9993 and 0.86% v/v, respectively. The results showed that FTIR spectrophotometry is an accurate technique for the quantitative analysis of NSO in binary and ternary mixtures with CO and SO.
Attachment Theory and Spirituality: Two Threads Converging in Palliative Care?
Authors: Loetz Cécile , Müller Jakob , Frick Eckhard , Petersen Yvonne , Hvidt Niels Christian , Mauer Christine
Published: November 2013

The aim of this paper is to discuss and explore the interrelation between two concepts, attachment theory and the concept of spirituality, which are important to palliative care and to founding a multivariate understanding of the patient’s needs and challenges. Both concepts have been treated by research in diverse and multiform ways, but little effort has yet been made to integrate them into one theoretical framework in reference to the palliative context. In this paper, we begin an attempt to close this scientific gap theoretically. Following the lines of thought in this paper, we assume that spirituality can be conceptualized as an adequate response of a person’s attachment pattern to the peculiarity of the palliative situation. Spirituality can be seen both as a recourse to securely based relationships and as an attempt to explore the ultimate unknown, the mystery of one’s own death. Thus, spirituality in the palliative context corresponds to the task of attachment behavior: to transcend symbiosis while continuing bonds and thus to explore the unknown environment independently and without fear. Spiritual activity is interpreted as a human attachment behavior option that receives special quality and importance in the terminal stage of life. Implications for clinical practice and research are discussed in the final section of the paper.
Investigation of Dispersion and Performance Based on Ring Cavity by Birefringent Interleaver for DWDM Transmission Systems
Authors: Liang Tsair-Chun , Chen Chun-Ting
Published: November 2013

We theoretically investigate a 25 GHz multichannel filter based on ring cavity birefringent optical interleaver for dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) transmission systems. The simulation tool used in this work is the Advanced System Analysis Program (ASAP) optical modeling software. We improve the dispersion performance by employingλ/6 andλ/4 wave plates as birefringent compensators for interleavers. The new structure exhibits a high performance with nearly zero ripple, a channel isolation greater than 102 dB, and a passband utilization of 86% within the C-band. The research results illustrate that our modified scheme can improve the dispersion of more than 76.6% in comparison with the previous studies of optical interleaver with birefringent crystal and ring cavity structures.
Islet‐1 Immunoreactivity in the Developing Retina of Xenopus laevis
Authors: Álvarez-Hernán Guadalupe , Bejarano-Escobar Ruth , Morona Ruth , González Agustín , Martín-Partido Gervasio , Francisco-Morcillo Javier
Published: November 2013

The LIM‐homeodomain transcription factor Islet1 (Isl1) has been widely used as a marker of neuronal differentiation in the developing visual system of different classes of vertebrates, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. In the present study, we analyzed the spatial and temporal distribution of Isl1‐immunoreactive cells during Xenopus laevis retinal development and its relation to the formation of the retinal layers, and in combination with different markers of cell differentiation. The earliest Isl1 expression appeared at St29‐30 in the cell nuclei of sparse differentiating neuroblasts located in the vitreal surface of the undifferentiated retina. At St35‐36, abundant Isl1‐positive cells accumulated at the vitreal surface of the neuroepithelium. As development proceeded and through the postmetamorphic juveniles, Isl1 expression was identified in subpopulations of ganglion cells and in subsets of amacrine, bipolar, and horizontal cells. These data together suggest a possible role for Isl1 in the early differentiation and maintenance of different retinal cell types, and Isl1 can serve as a specific molecular marker for the study of retinal cell specification in X. laevis.
Effects of Low Level Laser Therapy on Ovalbumin-Induced Mouse Model of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Choi Binhye , Chang Mun Seog , Kim Ha Young , Park Jae-Woo , Ryu Bongha , Kim Jinsung
Published: November 2013

Introduction. This study was designed to investigate the effects of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on experimental allergic rhinitis (AR) models induced by ovalbumin.Materials and Methods. AR was induced by 1% ovalbumin in mice. Twenty-four mice were divided into 4 groups: normal, control, low, and high dose irradiation. Low and high dose LLLT were irradiated once a day for 7 days. Total IgE, cytokines concentrations (IL-4 and IFN-γ), and thymus and activation regulated chemokine (TARC) were measured. Histological changes in the nasal mucosal tissue by laser irradiation were examined.Results. LLLT significantly inhibited total IgE, IL-4, and TARC expression in ovalbumin-induced mice at low dose irradiation. The protein expression level of IL-4 in spleen was inhibited in low dose irradiation significantly. IL-4 expression in EL-4 cells was inhibited in a dose dependent manner. Histological damages of the epithelium in the nasal septum were improved by laser irradiation with marked improvement at low dose irradiation.Conclusion. These results suggest that LLLT might serve as a new therapeutic tool in the treatment of AR with more effectiveness at low dose irradiation. To determine the optimal dose of laser irradiation and action mechanisms of laser therapy, further studies will be needed.
Computational Modelling of Blood Flow Development and Its Characteristics in Magnetic Environment
Authors: Shit Gopal Chandra
Published: November 2013

Of concern in this paper is an investigation of the entrance length behind singularities in cardiovascular hemodynamics under magnetic environment. In order to get better interpretation of scan MRI images, the characteristics of blood flow and electromagnetic field within the circulatory system have to be furthermore investigated. A 3D numerical model has been developed as an example of blood flowing through a straight circular tube. The governing coupled nonlinear differential equations of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) fluid flow are reduced to a nondimensional form, which are then characterized by four dimensionless parameters. With an aim to validate our numerical approach, the computational results are compared with those of the analytical solution available in the developed region far from the singularity. The hydraulic impedance by unit length within the developed flow region increases with the magnetic field. The time average entrance length with a greater precision on the unsteady case decreases with increasing magnetic field strength. The overall voltage characteristics do not depend on the developed flow field within the entry region.
Therapies for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Current Approaches and Pharmacologic Agents in Development
Authors: Hanout Mostafa , Ferraz Daniel , Ansari Mehreen , Maqsood Natasha , Kherani Saleema , Sepah Yasir J. , Rajagopalan Nithya , Ibrahim Mohamed , Do Diana V. , Nguyen Quan Dong
Published: November 2013

As one of the leading causes of blindness, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has remained at the epicenter of clinical research in ophthalmology. During the past decade, focus of researchers has ranged from understanding the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the angiogenic cascades to developing new therapies for retinal vascular diseases. Anti-VEGF agents such as ranibizumab and aflibercept are becoming increasingly well-established therapies and have replaced earlier approaches such as laser photocoagulation or photodynamic therapy. Many other new therapeutic agents, which are in the early phase clinical trials, have shown promising results. The purpose of this paper is to briefly review the available treatment modalities for neovascular AMD and then focus on promising new therapies that are currently in various stages of development.
Effects of Korean Red Ginseng and HAART onvifGene in 10 Long-Term Slow Progressors over 20 Years: High Frequency of Deletions and G-to-A Hypermutation
Authors: Cho Young Keol , Kim Ba Reum , Chang Mee Soo , Kim Jung Eun
Published: November 2013

To investigate if Korean red ginseng (KRG) affectsvifgene, we determinedvifgene over 20 years in 10 long-term slowly progressing patients (LTSP) who were treated with KRG alone and then KRG plus HAART. We also compared these data with those of 21 control patients who did not receive KRG. Control patient group harbored only one premature stop codon (PSC) (0.9%), whereas the 10 LTSP revealed 78 defective genes (18.1%) (P<0.001). The frequency of small in-frame deletions was found to be significantly higher in patients who received KRG alone (10.5%) than 0% in the pre-KRG or control patients (P<0.01). Regarding HAART,vifgenes containing PSCs were more frequently detected in patients receiving KRG plus HAART than patients receiving KRG alone or control patients (P<0.01). In conclusion, our current data suggest that the high frequency of deletions and PSC in thevifgene is associated with KRG intake and HAART, respectively.
An Expansion Formula with Higher‐Order Derivatives for Fractional Operators of Variable Order
Authors: Almeida Ricardo , Torres Delfim F. M.
Published: November 2013

We obtain approximation formulas for fractional integrals and derivatives of Riemann‐Liouville and Marchaud types with a variable fractional order. The approximations involve integer‐order derivatives only. An estimation for the error is given. The efficiency of the approximation method is illustrated with examples. As applications, we show how the obtained results are useful to solve differential equations, and problems of the calculus of variations that depend on fractional derivatives of Marchaud type.
Parametric and Internal Resonances of an Axially Moving Beam with Time-Dependent Velocity
Authors: Sahoo Bamadev , Panda L. N. , Pohit G.
Published: November 2013

The nonlinear vibration of a travelling beam subjected to principal parametric resonance in presence of internal resonance is investigated. The beam velocity is assumed to be comprised of a constant mean value along with a harmonically varying component. The stretching of neutral axis introduces geometric cubic nonlinearity in the equation of motion of the beam. The natural frequency of second mode is approximately three times that of first mode; a three-to-one internal resonance is possible. The method of multiple scales (MMS) is directly applied to the governing nonlinear equations and the associated boundary conditions. The nonlinear steady state response along with the stability and bifurcation of the beam is investigated. The system exhibits pitchfork, Hopf, and saddle node bifurcations under different control parameters. The dynamic solutions in the periodic, quasiperiodic, and chaotic forms are captured with the help of time history, phase portraits, and Poincare maps showing the influence of internal resonance.
A Review on Bioactivities of Perilla: Progress in Research on the Functions of Perilla as Medicine and Food
Authors: Igarashi Miho , Miyazaki Yoshifumi
Published: November 2013

Perilla is a useful pharmaceutical and food product and is empirically consumed by humans. However, its properties have not been evaluated extensively. In this review, we summarize the progress made in research, focusing on the bioactivities of perilla. There are manyin vitroand animal studies on the cytostatic activity and antiallergic effects, respectively, of perilla and its constituents. However, its influence on humans remains unclear. Hence, investigating and clarifying the physiological effects of perilla and its constituents on humans are imperative in the future to adhere to the ideals of evidence-based medicine.
Analysis of Germline Gene Copy Number Variants of Patients with Sporadic Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Reveals Specific Variations
Authors: Fanale Daniele , Iovanna Juan Lucio , Calvo Ezequiel Luis , Berthezene Patrice , Belleau Pascal , Dagorn Jean Charles , Ancona Chiara , Catania Giovanna , D'Alia Paolo , Galvano Antonio , Gulotta Eliana , Lo Dico Silvia , Passiglia Francesco , Bronte Giuseppe , Midiri Massimo , Lo Re Giuseppe , Cicero Giuseppe , Bazan Viviana , Russo Antonio
Published: November 2013

Objectives: The rapid fatality of pancreatic cancer is, in large part, the result of diagnosis at an advanced stage in the majority of patients. Identification of individuals at risk of developing pancreatic adenocarcinoma would be useful to improve the prognosis of this disease. There is presently no biological or genetic indicator allowing the detection of patients at risk. Our main goal was to identify copy number variants (CNVs) common to all patients with sporadic pancreatic cancer. Methods: We analyzed gene CNVs in leukocyte DNA from 31 patients with sporadic pancreatic adenocarcinoma and from 93 matched controls. Genotyping was performed with the use of the GeneChip Human Mapping 500K Array Set (Affymetrix). Results: We identified 431 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) probes with abnormal hybridization signal present in the DNA of all 31 patients. Of these SNP probes, 284 corresponded to 3 or more copies and 147 corresponded to 1 or 0 copies. Several cancer-associated genes were amplified in all patients. Conversely, several genes supposed to oppose cancer development were present as single copy. Conclusions: These data suggest that a set of 431 CNVs could be associated with the disease. This set could be useful for early diagnosis.
Moderate Physical Exercise Results in Increased Cell Activity in Articular Cartilage of the Knee Joint in Rats
Authors: Brisby H. , Papadimitriou N. , Runesson E. , Sasaki N. , Lindahl A. , Henriksson H.B.
Published: November 2013

Background: Moderate exercise regimens have shown minor positive effects on matrix turnover in articular cartilage (AC), while effects at cellular level, e.g. proliferation, are scarcely described. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of moderate exercise on cell proliferation and recruitment of cells possibly active in regeneration in different regions of cartilage in the rat knee joint. Methods: Eighteen rats were orally given 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) for 14 days for in vivo DNA labeling. Nine rats underwent treadmill training for 50 min/day, 5 days/week (exercise group), and 9 rats served as controls (no exercise). Animals were sacrificed after 14, 56 and 105 days, and knee joints were harvested. BrdU+ cells were visualized immunohistochemically (IHC) and counted in AC, posterior stem cell niche (PN), potential migration route (PMR; area between PN and the AC border), potential migration area (PMA; region between PN and AC including PN) and epiphyseal cartilage plate (EP) of the tibia and femur. Results: Compared to controls, in the exercise group BrdU+ cells/mm2 were increased on days 14 (p = 0.022) and 105 (p = 0.045) in AC of the tibia and on day 105 (p = 0.014) in AC of the femur. BrdU+ cell numbers were increased in the PMR region of the tibia on days 14 (p = 0.023) and 105 (p = 0.0018) and in the PMR region of the femur on day 105 (p = 0.0099) as well as in the PMA region of the tibia (p = 0.0008) and femur (p = 0.0080) on day 105. No significant differences in BrdU+ cells/mm2 were seen in PN or EP between the groups at any time point. Regarding collagen 2A1 expression and proteoglycan accumulation, no significant differences between groups were detected. Conclusions: The results indicate increased cell activity in AC in response to physical exercise and may help to understand the complexity of AC regeneration in the normal mammal knee joint.