bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Duodenal Wedge Resection for Large Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumour Presenting with Life-Threatening Haemorrhage
Authors: Shaw Alexander , Jeffery John , Dias Laura , Nazir Sarfraz
Published: March 2013

Background. Duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) are an uncommon malignancy of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We present a case of life-threatening haemorrhage caused by a large ulcerating duodenal GIST arising from the third part of the duodenum managed by a limited duodenal wedge resection.Case Presentation. A 61-year-old patient presented with acute life-threatening gastrointestinal bleeding. After oesophagogastroduodenoscopy failed to demonstrate the source of bleeding, a 5 cm ulcerating exophytic mass originating from the third part of the duodenum was identified at laparotomy. A successful limited wedge resection of the tumour mass was performed. Histopathology subsequently confirmed a duodenal GIST. The patient remained well at 12-month followup with no evidence of local recurrence or metastatic spread.Conclusion. Duodenal GISTs can present with life-threatening upper GI haemorrhage. In the context of acute haemorrhage, even relatively large duodenal GISTs can be treated by limited wedge resection. This is a preferable alternative to duodenopancreatectomy with lower morbidity and mortality but comparable oncological outcome.
Broadband EM Performance Characteristics of Single Square Loop FSS Embedded Monolithic Radome
Authors: Nair Raveendranath U. , Madhumitha J. , Jha Rakesh M.
Published: March 2013

A monolithic half-wave radome panel, centrally loaded with aperture-type single square loop frequency selective surface (SSL-FSS), is proposed here for broadband airborne radome applications. Equivalent transmission line method in conjunction with equivalent circuit model (ECM) is used for modeling the SSL-FSS embedded monolithic half-wave radome panel and evaluating radome performance parameters. The design parameters of the SSL-FSS are optimized at different angles of incidence such that the new radome wall configuration offers superior EM performance from L-band to X-band as compared to the conventional monolithic half-wave slab of identical material and thickness. The superior EM performance of SSL-FSS embedded monolithic radome wall makes it suitable for the design of normal incidence and streamlined airborne radomes.
A Review on the Computational Methods for Emotional State Estimation from the Human EEG
Authors: Kim Min-Ki , Kim Miyoung , Oh Eunmi , Kim Sung-Phil
Published: March 2013

A growing number of affective computing researches recently developed a computer system that can recognize an emotional state of the human user to establish affective human-computer interactions. Various measures have been used to estimate emotional states, including self-report, startle response, behavioral response, autonomic measurement, and neurophysiologic measurement. Among them, inferring emotional states from electroencephalography (EEG) has received considerable attention as EEG could directly reflect emotional states with relatively low costs and simplicity. Yet, EEG-based emotional state estimation requires well-designed computational methods to extract information from complex and noisy multichannel EEG data. In this paper, we review the computational methods that have been developed to deduct EEG indices of emotion, to extract emotion-related features, or to classify EEG signals into one of many emotional states. We also propose using sequential Bayesian inference to estimate the continuous emotional state in real time. We present current challenges for building an EEG-based emotion recognition system and suggest some future directions.
Ecotoxicity of Nanoparticles
Authors: Rana Sachindri , Kalaichelvan P. T.
Published: March 2013

Nanotechnology is a science of producing and utilizing nanosized particles that are measured in nanometers. The unique size-dependent properties make the nanoparticles superior and indispensable as they show unusual physical, chemical, and properties such as conductivity, heat transfer, melting temperature, optical properties, and magnetization. Taking the advantages of these singular properties in order to develop new products is the main purpose of nanotechnology, and that is why it is regarded as “the next industrial revolution.” Although nanotechnology is quite a recent discipline, there have already high number of publications which discuss this topic. However, the safety of nanomaterials is of high priority. Whereas toxicity focuses on human beings and aims at protecting individuals, ecotoxicity looks at various trophic organism levels and intend to protect populations and ecosystems. Ecotoxicity includes natural uptake mechanisms and the influence of environmental factors on bioavailability (and thereby on toxicity). The present paper focuses on the ecotoxic effects and mechanisms of nanomaterials on microorganisms, plants, and other organisms including humans.
Streptomyces misionensisPESB-25 Produces a Thermoacidophilic Endoglucanase Using Sugarcane Bagasse and Corn Steep Liquor as the Sole Organic Substrates
Authors: Franco-Cirigliano Marcella Novaes , Rezende Raquel de Carvalho , Gravina-Oliveira Mônica Pires , Pereira Pedro Henrique Freitas , do Nascimento Rodrigo Pires , Bon Elba Pinto da Silva , Macrae Andrew , Coelho Rosalie Reed Rodrigues
Published: March 2013

Streptomyces misionensisstrain PESB-25 was screened and selected for its ability to secrete cellulases. Cells were grown in a liquid medium containing sugarcane bagasse (SCB) as carbon source and corn steep liquor (CSL) as nitrogen source, whose concentrations were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). A peak of endoglucanase accumulation (1.01 U·mL−1) was observed in a medium with SCB 1.0% (w/v) and CSL 1.2% (w/v) within three days of cultivation.S. misionensisPESB-25 endoglucanase activity was thermoacidophilic with optimum pH and temperature range of 3.0 to 3.6 and 62° to 70°C, respectively. In these conditions, values of 1.54 U mL−1of endoglucanase activity were observed. Moreover, Mn2+was demonstrated to have a hyperactivating effect on the enzyme. In the presence of MnSO4(8 mM), the enzyme activity increased threefold, up to 4.34 U·mL−1. Mn2+also improved endoglucanase stability as the catalyst retained almost full activity upon incubation at 50°C for 4 h, while in the absence of Mn2+, enzyme activity decreased by 50% in this same period. Three protein bands with endoglucanase activity and apparent molecular masses of 12, 48.5 and 119.5 kDa were detected by zymogram.
Broadband Near‐Infrared Quantum Cutting in Metal‐Ion Codoped Y3Al5O12 Thin Films Grown by Pulsed‐Laser Deposition for Solar Cell Application
Authors: Lau Mei Kwan , Hao Jianhua
Published: March 2013

We have deposited thin films of yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) doped with Ce3+ and Yb3+ on quartz and silicon substrates by pulsed laser deposition. Near‐infrared (NIR) quantum cutting which involves the emission of NIR photons through the downconversion from Ce3+ to Yb3+ is realized. Upon the broadband excitation of Ce3+ ions with a visible photon at the peak wavelength of 450 nm, NIR photons are generated by Yb3+ ions, with an emission wavelength centered at 1030 nm. The luminescent decay curves of Ce3+ were recorded as a supporting evidence corresponding to the energy transfer. This work offers a better and more convenient approach compatible with crystalline silicon solar cell compared to conventional bulk phosphors.
Missing Screw as a Rare Complication of Anterior Cervical Instrumentation
Authors: Duransoy Yusuf Kurtuluş , Mete Mesut , Zengel Baha , Selçukı Mehmet
Published: March 2013

Although anterior cervical arthrodesis is an effective procedure for the treatment of cervical disorders, the method has some complications. Here, we describe this rare complication of cervical instrumentation with a literature review. A 23-year-old male patient was operated for a C6-C7 dislocation. At postoperative month 10, he presented with hemoptysis and dysphagia. Cervical roentgenograms showed anterior migrations of one broken screw and a plate-locking screw at the C6 corpus. One screw was missing. We concluded that the missing screw had perforated the esophagus and had been eliminated spontaneously through the gastrointestinal tract. No screw should migrate. Even loose screws should be noted in follow-up X-ray studies. If such findings are detected, a second operation for revision should be considered as soon as possible to prevent potentially fatal complications.
Evaluation of the Effects of STZ-Induced Diabetes onIn VitroFertilization and Early Embryogenesis Processes
Authors: Aktuğ Hüseyin , Bozok Çetintaş Vildan , Uysal Ayşegül , Oltulu Fatih , Yavaşoğlu Altuğ , Akarca Saadet Özen , Kosova Buket
Published: March 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of experimentally induced diabetes on (a) germ cells, (b)in vitrofertilization (IVF) success rate, and (c) gap junction and cell adhesion molecule gene and protein expressions during the early blastocyst period. Germ cells were obtained from healthy and diabetic rats, analyzed for number, motility, and morphology, and used for IVF. After reaching the early blastocyst stage, the expressions of genes encoding gap junction proteins and cell adhesion molecules were analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR. Histomorphologically and immunohistochemically analyses were also performed. Diabetes significantly affected sperm number and motility and the development of oocytes. Gene expressions ofβ-catenin and connexin family members and protein expressions of E-cadherin and connexin-43 significantly decreased in groups including germ cells isolated from diabetic rats. Connective tissue growth factor expression increased in groups that included sperm cells isolated from diabetic male rats, whereas mucin-1 expression increased in the group that included oocytes isolated from diabetic female rats paired with sperm cells isolated from healthy male rats. In summary, experimentally induced diabetes was found to influence gap junctions, cell adhesion molecules, and associated proteins which all have important roles in germ cell maturation, fertilization, and development.
Bimelic Hirayama Disease: Clinical Dilemma Solved by Imaging
Authors: Jain Shalabh , Yadav Siddharth , Gupta Swarna , Gupta Ritu
Published: March 2013

Hirayama disease (juvenile muscular atrophy of distal upper extremity) is a cervical myelopathy predominantly affecting adolescent males. It is characterized by progressive muscular weakness and atrophy of unilateral or asymmetrically bilateral distal upper limbs. We report a case of an 18-year-male painter, who presented with gradually progressive, symmetrical bilateral weakness of hands and forearm for the last two years. On the basis of clinical examination, a provisional diagnosis of lower motor neuron type of symmetrical distal weakness due to heavy metal intoxication was kept. However, imaging studies helped in making a definitive diagnosis of Hirayama disease. The patient was advised cervical collar, and there was no progression in symptoms after six months of followup. Due to the rarity of bilateral symmetrical involvement in Hirayama disease, it remains obscured or unsuspected clinically, and MRI plays a pivotal role in diagnosis.
Antinociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Orally Administrated Denatured Naja Naja Atra Venom on Murine Rheumatoid Arthritis Models
Authors: Zhu Kou-Zhu , Liu Yan-Li , Gu Jin-Hua , Qin Zheng-Hong
Published: March 2013

To investigate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the denatured Naja Naja atra venom (NNAV) in rheumatoid arthritis-associated models, the denatured NNAV (heat treated; 30, 90, 270 μg/kg), the native NNAV (untreated with heat; 90 μg/kg), and Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside (TWP, 15 mg/kg) were administrated orally either prophylactically or therapeutically. We measured time of licking the affected paw in formaldehyde-induced inflammatory model, paw volume in egg-white-induced inflammation, and granuloma weight in formalin-soaked filter paper-induced granuloma. For adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rats, paw edema, mechanical withdrawal threshold, serum levels of TNF-αand IL-10, and histopathological changes of the affected paw were assessed. We found that the denatured NNAV (90, 270 μg/kg) significantly reduced time of licking paw, paw volume, and granuloma weight in above inflammatory models and also attenuated paw edema, mechanical hyperalgesia, and histopathology changes in AIA rats. Additionally, the increase in serum TNF-αand the decrease in serum IL-10 in AIA rats were reversed by the denatured NNAV. Although the native NNAV and TWP rendered the similar pharmacological actions on the above four models with less potency than that of the denatured NNAV, these findings demonstrate that oral administration of the denatured NNAV produces antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities on rheumatoid arthritis.
Normality Index of Ventricular Contraction Based on a Statistical Model from FADS
Authors: Jiménez-Ángeles Luis , Valdés-Cristerna Raquel , Vallejo Enrique , Bialostozky David , Medina-Bañuelos Verónica
Published: March 2013

Radionuclide-based imaging is an alternative to evaluate ventricular function and synchrony and may be used as a tool for the identification of patients that could benefit from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In a previous work, we used Factor Analysis of Dynamic Structures (FADS) to analyze the contribution and spatial distribution of the 3 most significant factors (3-MSF) present in a dynamic series of equilibrium radionuclide angiography images. In this work, a probability density function model of the 3-MSF extracted from FADS for a control group is presented; also an index, based on the likelihood between the control group's contraction model and a sample of normal subjects is proposed. This normality index was compared with those computed for two cardiopathic populations, satisfying the clinical criteria to be considered as candidates for a CRT. The proposed normality index provides a measure, consistent with the phase analysis currently used in clinical environment, sensitive enough to show contraction differences between normal and abnormal groups, which suggests that it can be related to the degree of severity in the ventricular contraction dyssynchrony, and therefore shows promise as a follow-up procedure for patients under CRT.
Construction of Bivariate Nonseparable Compactly Supported Orthogonal Wavelets
Authors: Leng Jinsong , Huang Tingzhu , Cattani Carlo
Published: March 2013

A method for constructing bivariate nonseparable compactly supported orthogonal scaling functions, and the corresponding wavelets, using the dilation matrixM:=2n𝕀=2n[1001],(d=detM=22n≥4,n∈ℕ)is given. The accuracy and smoothness of the scaling functions are studied, thus showing that they have the same accuracy order as the univariate Daubechies low-pass filterm0(ω), to be used in our method. There follows that the wavelets can be made arbitrarily smooth by properly choosing the accuracy parameterr.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Insufficiency in Obese Children and Adolescents and Its Relationship with Insulin Resistance
Authors: Torun Emel , Gönüllü Erdem , Özgen İlker Tolga , Cindemir Ergül , Öktem Faruk
Published: March 2013

Objectives. We aimed to determine the relationship between insulin resistance and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) levels in obese children and their nonobese peers.Materials and Methods. Included in the study group were 188 obese children (aged 9–15 years), and 68 age- and gender-matched healthy children of normal weight as control group. Anthropomorphic data were collected on patients and fasting serum glucose, insulin, serum lipids, alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) and 25-OHD were measured. The homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated in both groups.Results. The levels of 25-OHD in the obese group were significantly lower than those of the nonobese (). HOMA-IR, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and ALT levels in the obese group were significantly higher than values of control group ( and , resp.). In the obese group, vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency (25-OHD < 10 ng/dl, < 20, >10 ng/dl; > 20 ng/dl, resp.) were not correlated with HOMA-IR (, ). HOMA-IR was negatively correlated with BMI, BMI SDS, and BMI%, and triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and ALT levels ().Conclusion. The insulin resistance of the obese subjects who were vitamin D deficient and insufficient did not statistically differ from those with vitamin D sufficiency. Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were not related with higher insulin resistance in obese children and adolescents. In obese subjects, insulin resistance was affected more from BMI, BMI SDS, and BMI% than from 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels.
Suzuki-Edelstein Type Contractions via Auxiliary Functions
Authors: Salimi Peyman , Karapınar Erdal
Published: March 2013

We prove the existence and uniqueness of a fixed point of certain type mapping, extension of Suzuki-Edelstein mapping, in a partially ordered complete metric space. Our results extend, improve, and generalize the existence results on the topic in the literature. We state some examples to illustrate our results.
A High-Accuracy MOC/FD Method for Solving Fractional Advection-Diffusion Equations
Authors: Su Lijuan , Cheng Pei
Published: March 2013

Fractional-order diffusion equations are viewed as generalizations of classical diffusion equations, treating super-diffusive flow processes. In this paper, in order to solve the fractional advection-diffusion equation, the fractional characteristic finite difference method is presented, which is based on the method of characteristics (MOC) and fractional finite difference (FD) procedures. The stability, consistency, convergence, and error estimate of the method are obtained. An example is also given to illustrate the applicability of theoretical results.
Bootstrap Dynamical Symmetry Breaking
Authors: Hou Wei-Shu
Published: March 2013

Despite the emergence of a 125 GeV Higgs-like particle at the LHC, we explore the possibility of dynamical electroweak symmetry breaking by strong Yukawa coupling of very heavy new chiral quarksQ. Taking the 125 GeV object to be a dilaton with suppressed couplings, we note that the Goldstone bosonsGexist as longitudinal modesVLof the weak bosons and would couple toQwith Yukawa couplingλQ. WithmQ≳700 GeV from LHC, the strongλQ≳4could lead to deeply boundQQ¯states. We postulate that the leading “collapsed state,” the color-singlet (heavy) isotriplet, pseudoscalarQQ¯mesonπ1, isGitself, and a gap equation without Higgs is constructed. Dynamical symmetry breaking is affected via strongλQ, generatingmQwhile self-consistently justifying treatingGas massless in the loop, hence, “bootstrap,” Solving such a gap equation, we find thatmQshould be several TeV, orλQ≳4π, and would become much heavier if there is a light Higgs boson. For such heavy chiral quarks, we find analogy with theπ−Nsystem, by which we conjecture the possible annihilation phenomena ofQQ¯→nVLwith high multiplicity, the search of which might be aided by Yukawa-boundQQ¯resonances.
Design of Thymidine Analogues Targeting Thymidilate Kinase ofMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Owono Owono Luc Calvin , Keita Melalie , Megnassan Eugene , Frecer Vladimir , Miertus Stanislav
Published: March 2013

We design here new nanomolar antituberculotics, inhibitors ofMycobacterium tuberculosisthymidine monophosphate kinase (TMPKmt), by means of structure-based molecular design. 3D models of TMPKmt-inhibitor complexes have been prepared from the crystal structure of TMPKmtcocrystallized with the natural substrate deoxythymidine monophosphate (dTMP) (1GSI) for a training set of 15 thymidine analogues (TMDs) with known activity to prepare a QSAR model of interaction establishing a correlation between the free energy of complexation and the biological activity. Subsequent validation of the predictability of the model has been performed with a 3D QSAR pharmacophore generation. The structural information derived from the model served to design new subnanomolar thymidine analogues. From molecular modeling investigations, the agreement between free energy of complexation (ΔΔGcom) andKivalues explains 94% of the TMPKmtinhibition (pKi=-0.2924ΔΔGcom+3.234;R2=0.94) by variation of the computedΔΔGcomand 92% for the pharmacophore (PH4) model (pKi=1.0206×pKipred-0.0832,  R2=0.92). The analysis of contributions from active site residues suggested substitution at the 5-position of pyrimidine ring and various groups at the 5′-position of the ribose. The best inhibitor reached a predictedKiof 0.155 nM. The computational approach through the combined use of molecular modeling and PH4 pharmacophore is helpful in targeted drug design, providing valuable information for the synthesis and prediction of activity of novel antituberculotic agents.
Equivalent Circuit Parameters Estimation for PEM Fuel Cell Using RBF Neural Network and Enhanced Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Chang Wen-Yeau
Published: March 2013

This paper proposes an equivalent circuit parameters measurement and estimation method for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The parameters measurement method is based on current loading technique; in current loading test a no load PEMFC is suddenly turned on to obtain the waveform of the transient terminal voltage. After the equivalent circuit parameters were measured, a hybrid method that combines a radial basis function (RBF) neural network and enhanced particle swarm optimization (EPSO) algorithm is further employed for the equivalent circuit parameters estimation. The RBF neural network is adopted such that the estimation problem can be effectively processed when the considered data have different features and ranges. In the hybrid method, EPSO algorithm is used to tune the connection weights, the centers, and the widths of RBF neural network. Together with the current loading technique, the proposed hybrid estimation method can effectively estimate the equivalent circuit parameters of PEMFC. To verify the proposed approach, experiments were conducted to demonstrate the equivalent circuit parameters estimation of PEMFC. A practical PEMFC stack was purposely created to produce the common current loading activities of PEMFC for the experiments. The practical results of the proposed method were studied in accordance with the conditions for different loading conditions.
Geotechnical and Physico-Chemical Characterization of Low Lime Fly Ashes
Authors: Moghal Arif Ali Baig
Published: March 2013

In order to explore the possibility of using low-lime fly ashes, the physical and chemical properties which have a direct bearing on their geotechnical and geoenvironmental behaviors have been investigated. In this paper, two types of low-lime fly ashes, originating from India, have been used. A brief account of various methods adopted in characterizing their physical, chemical, and geotechnical properties is presented. The relative importance of each of these properties in enhancing the bulk applicability of fly ashes has been brought out.
General Decay for the Degenerate Equation with a Memory Condition at the Boundary
Authors: Shin Su-Young , Kang Jum-Ran
Published: March 2013

We consider a degenerate equation with a memory condition at the boundary. For a wider class of relaxation functions, we establish a more general decay result, from which the usual exponential and polynomial decay rates are only special cases.
Gross Hematuria in Patients with Prostate Cancer: Etiology and Management
Authors: Gofrit Ofer N. , Katz Ran , Shapiro Amos , Yutkin Vladimir , Pizov Galina , Zorn Kevin C. , Duvdevani Mordechai , Landau Ezekiel H. , Pode Dov
Published: March 2013

The objective of the study is to assess the etiology and prognosis of gross hematuria (GH) in patients with carcinoma of the prostate (CAP). From 1991 to 2011, 81 men (mean age 74.3 years, SD 6.5) with CAP were hospitalized with GH. Primary treatment of CAP was radical surgery in 13 patients (group 1) and nonsurgical therapy in 68 (group 2), mostly radiotherapy (35 cases) and hormonal treatment (25 cases). The common etiologies of GH in group 1 were bladder cancer (38.5%) and urinary infection (23%). In contrast, CAP itself caused GH in 60% of the patients in group 2. Thirty-nine patients (48%) required transurethral surgery to manage GH which was effective in all cases; nevertheless, the prognosis of group 2 patients was dismal with median overall survival of 13 months after sustaining hematuria, compared to 50 months in group 1 (P=0.0015). We conclude that the etiology of GH in patients with CAP varies according to primary treatment. After radical prostatectomy, it is habitually caused by bladder cancer or infection. When the primary treatment is not surgical, GH is most commonly due to CAP itself. Although surgical intervention is effective in alleviating hematuria of these patients, their prognosis is dismal.
The Accumulation of Crocin and Geniposide and Transcripts of Phytoene Synthase during Maturation ofGardenia jasminoidesFruit
Authors: Gao Lan , Zhu Bi-Yun
Published: March 2013

Gardenia fruit (fruit ofGardenia jasminoidesEllis) is used as a natural pigment resource and a Chinese traditional medicine. The white mesocarp turning orange or red that occurs during gardenia fruit maturation arises from the production and accumulation of the apocarotenoids, especially crocin-1, which is derived from carotenoid. Meanwhile, the major medical component geniposide is accumulated in gardenia fruit. To further our understanding of the synthetic and accumulation mechanism for crocin-1 and geniposide in gardenia fruit, the contents of crocin-1 and geniposide and the transcripts of phytoene synthase (GjPSY) profiles in gardenia fruits were examined at various stages of maturation. The concentration of crocin-1 and geniposide in gardenia fruit was determined by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results showed that the concentration of crocetin-1 was increased during fruit development and the concentration of geniposide does not change significantly during maturing. The expression levels of GjPSY mRNA were examined by RT-PCR. It was revealed that GjPSY was constitutively expressed during fruit development, suggesting that the primary mechanism that controls crocin accumulation inG. jasminoidesfruits during development is not correlated to the differential regulation of transcript levels of GjPSY gene.
Diurnal Choroidal Thickness Changes in Normal Eyes of Turkish People Measured by Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Osmanbasoglu Ozen Ayrancı , Alkin Zeynep , Ozkaya Abdullah , Ozpınar Yavuz , Yazici Ahmet Taylan , Demirok Ahmet
Published: March 2013

Purpose. To analyse the diurnal variation of central choroidal thickness (CCT) in healthy emetropic patients during working hours.Methods. Fifty healthy young emmetrpic volunteers were included in this study. CCT was measured at 9 AM and 4 PM with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (Spectralis, Heidelberg Engineering) with enhanced depth imaging. Diurnal variation of CCT, the correlation between rigth and left eyes and the demographic factors affecting this variation were assessed.Findings. The mean CCT at 9 AM and 4 PM was 308.7 ± 64.5 μm and 308.7 ± 62 μm, respectively, with a mean diurnal amplitude of −0.03 ± 14.7 μm, ranging between −55 μm and 47 μm, the difference was statistically insignificant (P: 0.9). There were positive correlations between right and left eyes among CCT measurements at 9 AM, 4 PM and the mean amplitude of diurnal change (r: 0.65,P<0.01;r: 0.60,P<0.01;r: 0.45,P: 0.00, resp.). There was a statistically significant negative correlation between the magnitude of diurnal change and age (r: −0.27,P: 0.01).Conclusion. Although the mean CCT in the all group does not show significant variation during working hours, the pattern of diurnal variation may vary from person to person according to age, and there is a great harmony between the two eyes.
Variance and Passivity Constrained Fuzzy Control for Nonlinear Ship Steering Systems with State Multiplicative Noises
Authors: Chang Wen-Jer , Huang Bo-Jyun
Published: March 2013

The variance and passivity constrained fuzzy control problem for the nonlinear ship steering systems with state multiplicative noises is investigated. The continuous-time Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy model is used to represent the nonlinear ship steering systems with state multiplicative noises. In order to simultaneously achieve variance, passivity, and stability performances, some sufficient conditions are derived based on the Lyapunov theory. Employing the matrix transformation technique, these sufficient conditions can be expressed in terms of linear matrix inequalities. By solving the corresponding linear matrix inequality conditions, a parallel distributed compensation based fuzzy controller can be obtained to guarantee the stability of the closed-loop nonlinear ship steering systems subject to variance and passivity performance constraints. Finally, a numerical simulation example is provided to illustrate the usefulness and applicability of the proposed multiple performance constrained fuzzy control method.
Reduction of Postfire Properties of High-Strength Concrete
Authors: Torić Neno , Boko Ivica , Peroš Bernardin
Published: March 2013

This paper presents an experimental study of behaviour of high-strength concrete at high temperature. Reduction of the mechanical properties of concrete was determined starting from the period when the concrete specimens were heated to the maximum temperature and cooled down to ambient temperature and the additional 96 hours after the initial cooling of the specimens. The study includes determination of compressive strength, dynamic and secant modulus of elasticity, and stress-strain curves of concrete specimens when exposed to temperature level up to 600°C. The study results were compared with those obtained from other studies, EN 1994-1-2 and EN 1992-1-2. Tests point to the fact that compressive strength of concrete continues to reduce rapidly 96 hours after cooling of the specimens to ambient temperature; therefore indicating that the mechanical properties of concrete have substantial reduction after being exposed to high temperature. The study of the dynamic and secant modulus of elasticity shows that both of the properties are reduced but remain constant during the period of 96 hours after cooling. The level of postfire reduction of compressive strength of the analyzed concrete is substantial and could significantly affect the postfire load bearing capacity of a structure.
Condylar Aplasia and Hypoplasia: A Rare Case
Authors: Shivhare Peeyush , Shankarnarayan Lata , Usha  , Kumar Mahesh , Sowbhagya Malliger Basavaraju
Published: March 2013

Aplasia of condyle is very rare, when this condition not seen as a part of a syndrome. We report a case of condylar aplasia on the right side and hypoplasia on the left side in a 21-year-old female. The patient reported to the department with a chief complaint of underdeveloped lower jaw. Clinical examination, conventional radiographs, and 3D CBCT images revealed complete absence of condyle on the right side and hypoplasia on the left side.
Detection of Carbofuran with Immobilized Acetylcholinesterase Based on Carbon Nanotubes‐Chitosan Modified Electrode
Authors: Zhang Shuping , Li Shaoyang , Ma Jie , Xiong Fei , Qu Song
Published: March 2013

A sensitive and stable enzyme biosensor based on efficient immobilization of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) to MWNTs‐modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with chitosan (CS) by layer‐by‐layer (LBL) technique for rapid determination of carbofuran has been devised. According to the inhibitory effect of carbamate pesticide on the enzymatic activity of AChE, we use carbofuran as a model pesticide. The inhibitory effect of carbofuran on the biosensor was proportional to concentration of carbofuran in the range from 10−10 g/L to 10−3 g/L with a detection limit of 10−12 g/L. This biosensor is a promising new method for pesticide analysis.
Nematic Liquid Crystal Locking Menisci
Authors: Svetec Milan , Slavinec Mitja
Published: March 2013

We study meniscus driven locking of point defects of nematic liquid crystals confined within a cylindrical tube with free ends. Curvilinear coordinate system is introduced in order to focus on the phenomena of both (convex and concave) types of menisci. Frank's description in terms of the nematic director field is used. The resulting Euler-Lagrange differential equation is solved numerically. We determine conditions for the defects to be trapped by the meniscus.
Mitochondrial Mechanisms of Neuroglobin’s Neuroprotection
Authors: Yu Zhanyang , Poppe Jessica L. , Wang Xiaoying
Published: March 2013

Neuroglobin (Ngb) is an oxygen-binding globin protein that has been demonstrated to be neuroprotective against stroke and related neurological disorders. However, the underlying mechanisms of Ngb’s neuroprotection remain largely undefined. Mitochondria play critical roles in multiple physiological pathways including cell respiration, energy production, free radical generation, and cellular homeostasis and apoptosis. Mitochondrial dysfunction is widely involved in the pathogenesis of stroke and neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases. Accumulating evidence showed that elevated Ngb level is associated with preserved mitochondrial function, suggesting that Ngb may play neuroprotective roles through mitochondria-mediated pathways. In this paper we briefly discuss the mitochondria-related mechanisms in Ngb’s neuroprotection, especially those involved in ATP production, ROS generation and scavenging, and mitochondria-mediated cell death signaling pathways.
Body Image Dissatisfaction Is Increased in Male and Overweight/Obese Adolescents in Botswana
Authors: Malete L. , Motlhoiwa K. , Shaibu S. , Wrotniak B. H. , Maruapula S. D. , Jackson J. , Compher C. W.
Published: March 2013

Introduction. The purpose of this study was to examine linkages between obesity, physical activity, and body image dissatisfaction, with consideration of socioeconomic status (SES) and urbanization in adolescents in Botswana.Materials and Methods. A nationally representative, cross-sectional survey in 707 secondary school students included measured height and weight to determine overweight (OW) or obesity (OB) using World Health Organization standards; physical activity (PA) using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire; and body image satisfaction using the Body Ideals Questionnaire. SES was described by private school versus public school attendance.Results and Discussion. OW/OB students felt farther from ideal and greater dissatisfaction with their weight and body proportions than optimal weight students. Boys felt greater difference from ideal and more dissatisfaction with muscle tone, chest size, and strength than girls. Lower SES students and those from rural villages had more minutes of PA than higher SES or urban students. In this rapidly developing African country, these trends reflect the nutrition transition and offer opportunity to motivate OW/OB students and boys for PA as a health promotion obesity prevention behavior.Conclusions. As urbanization and improved SES are desirable and likely to continue, the public health system will be challenged to prevent obesity while preserving a healthy body image.
Univalence of a New General Integral Operator Associated with theq-Hypergeometric Function
Authors: Aldweby Huda , Darus Maslina
Published: March 2013

Motivated by the familiarq-hypergeometric functions, we introduce a new family of integral operators and obtain new sufficient conditions of univalence criteria. Several corollaries and consequences of the main results are also pointed out.
Solvability of a Fourth-Order Boundary Value Problem with Integral Boundary Conditions
Authors: Li Hui , Wang Libo , Pei Minghe
Published: March 2013

We investigate the existence of solutions and positive solutions for a nonlinear fourth-order differential equation with integral boundary conditions of the formx(4)(t)=f(t,x(t),x′(t),x′′(t),x′′′(t)),t∈[0,1],x(0)=x′(1)=0,x′′(0)=∫01h(s,x(s),x′(s),x′′(s))ds,x′′′(1)=0, wheref∈C([0,1]×ℝ4),h∈C([0,1]×ℝ3). By using a fixed point theorem due to D. O'Regan, the existence of solutions and positive solutions for the previous boundary value problems is obtained. Meanwhile, as applications, some examples are given to illustrate our results.
Modelling the Shear-Tension Coupling of Woven Engineering Fabrics
Authors: Abdiwi F. , Harrison P. , Yu W. R.
Published: March 2013

An approach to incorporate the coupling between the shear compliance and in-plane tension of woven engineering fabrics, in finite-element-based numerical simulations, is described. The method involves the use of multiple input curves that are selectively fed into a hypoelastic constitutive model that has been developed previously for engineering fabrics. The selection process is controlled by the current value of the in-plane strain along the two fibre directions using a simple algorithm. Model parameters are determined from actual experimental data, measured using the Biaxial Bias Extension test. An iterative process involving finite element simulations of the experimental test is used to normalise the test data for use in the code. Finally, the effectiveness of the method is evaluated and shown to provide qualitatively good predictions.
Perturbations of Polynomials with Operator Coefficients
Authors: Gil' Michael
Published: March 2013

We consider polynomials whose coefficients are operators belonging to the Schatten-von Neumann ideals of compact operators in a Hilbert space. Bounds for the spectra of perturbed pencils are established. Applications to differential and difference equations are also discussed.
Finite Difference Solution of Elastic-Plastic Thin Rotating Annular Disk with Exponentially Variable Thickness and Exponentially Variable Density
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev , Sanehlata Yadav
Published: March 2013

Elastic-plastic stresses, strains, and displacements have been obtained for a thin rotating annular disk with exponentially variable thickness and exponentially variable density with nonlinear strain hardening material by finite difference method using Von-Mises' yield criterion. Results have been computed numerically and depicted graphically. From the numerical results, it can be concluded that disk whose thickness decreases radially and density increases radially is on the safer side of design as compared to the disk with exponentially varying thickness and exponentially varying density as well as to flat disk.
Seed Germination Characteristics ofRhus tripartitum(Ucria) Grande andZiziphus lotus(L.): Effects of Water Stress
Authors: Refka Zouaoui , Mustapha Ksontini , Ali Ferchichi
Published: March 2013

Ziziphus lotus(L.) Lam. (Rhamnaceae) andRhus tripartitumor Sumac (Anacardiaceae) are two indigenous species from arid and semiarid regions of Tunisia, characterized by a severe climate where dry seasons are very long. The combined action of anthropogenic factors and climate in arid regions caused a gradual threat of plant assets. In this context, an experimental study of the effects of water stress (0 to −1 MPa) on seeds has identified the water requirements germinal stage of both species. The results showed that both species were able to germinate at relatively low water potentials. However, beyond −0.6 MPa, germination was completely inhibited forR. tripartitum, when it reached for another 50% forZ. lotus. Increasing the concentration of PEG6000progressively inhibited germination in both species. OnlyZ. lotuscould be considered tolerant of water stress, because, to −1 MPa, seeds germinated with a rate of 17%. It resulted in that the speciesZ. lotuspresented an adaptive capacity to aridity much greater than that observed forR. tripartitum.
The Complex Network Synchronization via Chaos Control Nodes
Authors: Li Yin , Zheng Chun-long
Published: March 2013

We investigate chaos control nodes of the complex network synchronization. The structure of the coupling functions between the connected nodes is obtained based on the chaos control method and Lyapunov stability theory. Moreover a complex network with nodes of the new unified Loren-Chen-Lü system, Coullet system, Chee-Lee system, and the New system is taken as an example; numerical simulations are used to verify the effectiveness of the method.
Column Generation for a Multitrip Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows, Driver Work Hours, and Heterogeneous Fleet
Authors: Seixas Michel Povlovitsch , Mendes André Bergsten
Published: March 2013

This study addresses a vehicle routing problem with time windows, accessibility restrictions on customers, and a fleet that is heterogeneous with regard to capacity and average speed. A vehicle can perform multiple routes per day, all starting and ending at a single depot, and it is assigned to a single driver whose total work hours are limited. A column generation algorithm is proposed. The column generation pricing subproblem requires a specific elementary shortest path problem with resource constraints algorithm to address the possibility for each vehicle performing multiple routes per day and to address the need to set the workday’s start time within the planning horizon. A constructive heuristic and a metaheuristic based on tabu search are also developed to find good solutions.
Optimization of ATSC Mobile Handheld Service Capacity
Authors: Issa Omneya
Published: March 2013

Mobile TV has become a reality offered on several mobile delivery systems. Among them is the Advanced Television System Committee (ATSC) system for mobile and handheld digital television services, known as ATSC Mobile DTV or ATSC M/H, which has moved from standardization to implementation. As the North American broadcast industry is preparing to provide Mobile DTV service to consumers, this work discusses important technical parameters that affect the TV service quality and capacity. Since additional error correction mechanisms were added to overcome mobile transmission problems, the available payload for M/H services is limited. This creates a need to efficiently use the available M/H bandwidth. The paper aims to optimize the Mobile DTV service capacity while maintaining an acceptable perceived quality. It presents tradeoffs between several factors affecting service capacity and signal robustness, which is prominent for designing Mobile TV broadcasting scenarios.
Achieving Accurate Ligament Balancing Using Robotic-Assisted Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Plate Johannes F. , Mofidi Ali , Mannava Sandeep , Smith Beth P. , Lang Jason E. , Poehling Gary G. , Conditt Michael A. , Jinnah Riyaz H.
Published: March 2013

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) allows replacement of a single compartment in patients with limited disease. However, UKA is technically challenging and relies on accurate component positioning and restoration of natural knee kinematics. This study examined the accuracy of dynamic, real-time ligament balancing using a robotic-assisted UKA system. Surgical data obtained from the computer system were prospectively collected from 51 patients (52 knees) undergoing robotic-assisted medial UKA by a single surgeon. Dynamic ligament balancing of the knee was obtained under valgus stress prior to component implantation and then compared to final ligament balance with the components in place. Ligament balancing was accurate up to 0.53 mm compared to the preoperative plan, with 83% of cases within 1 mm at 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, and 110° of flexion. Ligamentous laxity of1.31±0.13 mm at 30° of flexion was corrected successfully to0.78±0.17 mm (P<0.05). Robotic-assisted UKA allows accurate and precise reproduction of a surgical balance plan using dynamic, real-time soft-tissue balancing to help restore natural knee kinematics, potentially improving implant survival and functional outcomes.
Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology ofAndrographis paniculataand Its Major Bioactive Phytoconstituent Andrographolide
Authors: Jayakumar Thanasekaran , Hsieh Cheng-Ying , Lee Jie-Jen , Sheu Joen-Rong
Published: March 2013

Andrographis paniculata(Burm. F) Nees, generally known as “king of bitters,” is an herbaceous plant in the family Acanthaceae. In China, India, Thailand, and Malaysia, this plant has been widely used for treating sore throat, flu, and upper respiratory tract infections. Andrographolide, a major bioactive chemical constituent of the plant, has shown anticancer potential in various investigations. Andrographolide and its derivatives have anti-inflammatory effects in experimental models asthma, stroke, and arthritis. In recent years, pharmaceutical chemists have synthesized numerous andrographolide derivatives, which exhibit essential pharmacological activities such as those that are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antitumor, antidiabetic, anti-HIV, antifeedant, and antiviral. However, what is noteworthy about this paper is summarizing the effects of andrographolide against cardiovascular disease, platelet activation, infertility, and NF-κB activation. Therefore, this paper is intended to provide evidence reported in relevant literature on qualitative research to assist scientists in isolating and characterizing bioactive compounds.
Automatic Valve-Rejection Algorithm for Cardiac Doppler Ultrasound Systems
Authors: Baba Tatsuro , Adachi Shuichi , Taiko Masatsugu
Published: March 2013

In recent years, blood flow diagnosis using Doppler ultrasound systems has become popular. Using these systems, the peak velocity of blood flow is automatically traced. However, because valve signals are mixed with the blood flow signals in a heart chamber, automatic measurements of blood flow are not correctly recorded. To solve this problem, we developed a novel method that adopted system identification. We applied a mathematical model with an electrocardiographic waveform as the input and a trace waveform of the peak velocity as the output. Several mathematical models with different structures and orders were compared to select the optimal model. Using this model, we developed a system that could automatically eliminate the valve signal. We also evaluated our valve-rejection algorithm using simulations based on actual clinical data.
Late Onset Atypical Pantothenate-Kinase-Associated Neurodegeneration
Authors: Diaz Natalie
Published: March 2013

Introduction. Pantothenate-kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) is a rare genetic disease and a form of neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA). It most commonly begins in the first two decades of life but should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients at any age with an atypical progressive extrapyramidal disorder and cognitive impairment. Few late-adult cases have been reported.Case Report. A 50-year-old woman presented with a history of progressive dysarthria and dysphagia secondary to orolingual dystonia. Initial work-up was normal. There was no family history. Her initial symptoms were followed by the onset of blepharospasm, cervical dystonia, Parkinsonism, and cognitive impairment. Follow-up MRI four years after presentation revealed the diagnostic “eye-of-the-tiger” sign. Genetic testing confirmed a homozygous missense mutation consistent with the diagnosis of PKAN.Conclusion. Although PKAN is a rare genetic disorder most commonly seen in childhood, it should be considered in adult patients with a history of progressive focal dystonia or atypical Parkinsonism. As the radiographic findings are quite characteristic, genetic testing should be performed if the MRI shows evidence of iron accumulation. Optimal treatment strategies are not known, and at the current time therapies should be directed at the specific manifestations of the disease.