bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychosocial predictors of first attendance for organised mammography screening
Authors: Aro A.R. , de Koning H.J. , Absetz P. , Schreck M.
Published: May 2013

Objective To study psychosocial predictors of attendance at an organised breast cancer screening programme.

Setting Finnish screening programme based on personal first round invitations in 1992–94, and with 90% attendance rate.

Methods Attenders (n=946) belonged to a 10% random sample (n=1680 women, age 50, response rate 64%) of the target population (n=16 886), non-attenders (n=641, 38%) came from the whole target population. Predictors were measured one month before the screening invitation. Measures included items for social and behavioural factors, Breast Cancer Susceptibility Scale, Illness Attitude Scale, Health Locus of Control Scale, Anxiety Inventory, and Depression Inventory. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to predict attendance.

Results Those most likely to attend were working, middle income, and averagely educated women, who had not had a mass mammogram recently, but who regularly visited gynaecologists, attended for Pap smear screening, practised breast self examination, and who did not smoke. Low confidence in their own capabilities in breast cancer prevention, overoptimism about the sensitivity of mammography, and perception of breast cancer risk as moderate were also predictive of attendance. Expectation of pain at mammography was predictive of non-attendance.

Conclusion Mammography screening organised as a public health service was well accepted. A recent mammogram, high reliance on self control of breast cancer, and an expectation of pain at mammography deterred attendance at screening. Further information about these factors and health information on screening are needed.
Hormone replacement therapy and screening mammography: analysis of the results in the Bouches du Rhône programme
Authors: Séradour B. , Estève J. , Heid P. , Jacquemier J.
Published: May 2013

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of a mass screening programme for breast cancer in a French population where hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is common and where mammography is prescribed outside the programme for asymptomatic women.

Methods From 1993 to 1996 inclusive, 41 062 women underwent a first test and 48 275 a second or third test in the Bouches du Rhône programme. Their HRT status was ascertained at the time of the test. False positive and false negative tests were identified at one year follow up. The incidence of interval cancers was estimated up to three years after the screening test.

Results The odds of being detected at screening rather than as an interval cancer within one year of the test was five times greater among non-users of HRT than among users (odds ratio (OR) 5.14 (confidence interval 2.5 to 11.8)). This high reduction in sensitivity among users (71% v 92%) was associated with a very small reduction in specificity at the incident screen only. The incidence of interval cancers among HRT users was 3.5 times that of non-users within the first year after the test and 1.7 times during the following two years.

Conclusions When the early results of a programme have been used to measure its effectiveness they should be reassessed in populations where HRT is in widespread use. As interval cancers had better prognostic factors in HRT users than in non-users, the efficacy of a screening programme in such populations should be the subject of further studies.
Estimating time and travel costs incurred in clinic based screening: flexible sigmoidoscopy screening for colorectal cancer
Authors: Frew E. , Wolstenholme J.L. , Atkin W. , Whynes D.K.
Published: May 2013

Objectives To identify the characteristics of mode of travel to screening clinics; to estimate the time and travel costs incurred in attending; to investigate whether such costs are likely to bias screening compliance.

Setting Twelve centres in the trial of flexible sigmoidoscopy screening for colorectal cancer, drawn from across Great Britain.

Method Analysis of 3525 questionnaires completed by screening subjects while attending clinics. Information supplied included sociodemographic characteristics, modes of travel, expenses, activities forgone owing to attendance, and details of companions.

Results More than 80% of subjects arrived at the clinics by car, and about two thirds were accompanied. On average, the clinic visit involved a 14.4 mile (22.8 km) round trip, requiring 130 minutes. Mean travel costs amounted to £6.10 per subject. The mean gross direct non-medical and indirect cost per subject amounted to £16.90, and the mean overall gross cost per attendance was £22.40. Compared with the Great Britain population as a whole, non-manual classes were more strongly represented, and the self employed less strongly represented, among the attendees.

Conclusions In relation to direct medical costs, the time and travel costs of clinic based screening can be substantial, may influence the overall cost effectiveness of a screening programme, and may deter potential subjects from attending.
Interventions to increase breast screening uptake: do they make any difference?
Authors: Sin J.P. , St Leger A.S.
Published: May 2013

Background Breast screening has an important role in improving survival from breast cancer through early detection and treatment. Increasing uptake of screening in areas of low uptake is important in improving the effectiveness of the national screening programme. This review looks at which initiatives to boost uptake have been successful.

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of the different interventions to increase breast screening uptake.

Method A systematic review of interventions to promote breast screening uptake was undertaken. Studies were included if uptake was used as an outcome measure of the intervention and if relevant to the UK screening programme.

Results Twenty eight studies were found among 25 citations. Interventions were grouped into “person directed”, “system directed”, “social network directed”, and “multistrategy” categories. Most were person directed. These interventions were more likely to be effective in boosting uptake, be simple in design, and to have been evaluated by a randomised trial design. Evidence of effectiveness in the other groups is limited both by the number of studies and the study designs. A summary of the interventions reviewed is presented.

Conclusions Simple, brief, and effective interventions exist to boost breast screening uptake. More complicated approaches are not necessarily any more effective. These findings also have implications for other population based screening programmes of the future. In inner city areas the best approach to raising uptake rates is likely to be multistrategy.
Development of the gynoecium ofGuettarda pohlianain the context of Rubiaceae evolution
Authors: da Costa Figueiredo Rogério , Vieira Ricardo Cardoso , De Toni Karen L.G.
Published: May 2013

Traditional studies examining the evolution of the gynoecium in Rubiaceae focus on variations in ovule morphology. However, development of the gynoecium is poorly understood. Only a few studies have been conducted to examine the formation of the carpellary septa in the subfamilies Cinchonoideae and Ixoroideae. A trend in reduced ovule structures has been observed. The origin of the carpellary septa is also relevant. Therefore, to provide insight into the evolution of embryological characteristics in Rubiaceae, we investigated the ontogeny of the carpels and ovules in Guettarda pohliana (Cinchonoideae), focusing on the carpellary septa, placenta, nucellus, and integument. Guettarda pohliana has a long basal septum and pendulous ovules. The ovules are anatropous, unitegmic, and tenuinucellate. The nucellus is dome-like, the epidermis contains between seven and eight cells, and there are between four and six subepidermal initials. Based on these observations, we propose a new ovule type in the evolutionary diagram of this group. This new Chomelia type is very similar to the Ixora type, but the pendulous ovules differ and Chomelia has a long basal septum.
Phylogenetic analysis of fungal aquaporins provides insight into their possible role in water transport of mycorrhizal associations
Authors: Xu Hao , Cooke Janice E.K. , Zwiazek Janusz J.
Published: May 2013

In mycorrhizal associations, water transport properties of the fungal hyphae may have a profound effect on water transport of the host plant. The importance of aquaporins, water-transporting members of the major intrinsic protein (MIP) family, in facilitating water transport has been widely acknowledged and extensively studied in plants. However, until recently, relatively little was known about the structure, function, and regulation of fungal MIPs. The rapid increase in the number of sequenced fungal genomes, including Laccaria bicolor and other mycorrhizal fungi, has enabled functional and comparative genomic investigations to delineate the role that fungal MIPs play in mycorrhizal-facilitated plant water transport. Phylogenic analysis of 229 fungal MIPs from 88 species revealed that MIPs of mycorrhizal fungal species fall into four clusters delineated by functionally characterized fungal MIPs: the orthodox aquaporins, the aquaglyceroporins, the facultative fungal aquaporins, and the X intrinsic proteins. This comparative genomics analysis, together with in silico structural characterization of predicted MIPs and recently published functional characterization of MIPs from a small number of ectomycorrhizal and arbuscular mycorrhizal species, provide new insight into MIP gene families of mycorrhizal fungi and possible roles for fungal aquaporins in water relations of mycorrhizal plant–fungus symbioses.
Computational studies on structural modifications for the inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase activities by luteolin
Authors: Zhang Ji , Li Hui , Zhou Xia , Fan Yi-Ran , Zhou Zhi-Guang , Yao Qi-Zheng
Published: May 2013

Many experimental studies have previously found that flavonoids including luteolin can inhibit the activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), but the related theoretical studies are rather lacking. In this paper, based on our recently obtained interaction mechanisms between luteolin and the catalytic zinc ion in MMPs (see J. Phys. Org. Chem. 2012, 25, 1306), we perform PM6 quantum chemistry calculations together with modeling of ligand−water exchange reactions to investigate the relevant structural modifications for the inhibition of MMP activities by luteolin. The calculations indicate that among the possible modified positions of A, B, and C rings of the luteolin molecule, 5, 7, 2′, 3′, and 4′ should be the five suitable modified positions, and the several usual substituent groups that have stronger electron-donating abilities should be the suitable substituent groups. We further find that with the increasing number of these substituent groups, the biological activities for the modified luteolin molecules on MMP inhibition can be obviously improved. Our calculated results are in agreement with previous relevant experimental results. This paper gives a new approach for designing the new MMP inhibitors having higher biological activities by carrying out the structural modifications of the luteolin molecule.
Experimental study of static behaviour of stud shear connectors
Authors: Liu Yi , Alkhatib Ammar
Published: May 2013

An experimental program involving the test of 25 push-out specimens was conducted to study the behaviour and strength of shear studs in the application of composite bridge decks and to assess the detailing requirement specified in the code practice. Testing parameters included reinforcement mesh position, presence of stud head, and stud height. An alternative type of shear studs, referred to as adjustable studs, was also studied and its capacity was compared with conventional studs. Results showed that the position of reinforcement mesh affected the specimen failure mode and ultimate load. Comparing with the cases where the mesh was placed either flush with the stud head or above the stud, the maximum ultimate load was reached and the failure was by stud shear-off when the mesh intercepted the studs. Shear studs with heads resulted in a higher ultimate load in specimens than unheaded shear studs. In the comparison between conventional and adjustable shear studs, while they shared similar failure modes, adjustable studs showed on average lower load capacity than their conventional counterparts. For all specimens studied, only specimens with reinforcement mesh satisfying the detailing requirement were able to attain the code specified strength.
Involvement of cardiomyocyte apoptosis in myocardial injury of hereditary epileptic rats
Authors: Chen Fan , Cao Yong-gang , Qi Han-ping , Li Lei , Huang Wei , Wang Ye , Sun Hong-li
Published: May 2013

Many clinical cases have been reported where epilepsy profoundly influenced the pathophysiological function of the heart; however, the underlying mechanisms were not elucidated. We use the tremor (TRM) rat as an animal model of epilepsy to investigate the potential mechanisms of myocardial injury. Cardiac functions were assessed by arrhythmia score, heart rate, heart:body mass ratio, and hemodynamic parameters including left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), and maximum rate of left ventricular pressure rise and fall (+dp/dtmax and –dp/dtmax). Catecholamine level was detected by HPLC. Apoptotic index was estimated by TUNEL assay. The expressions of Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), c-Jun NH2-terminal protein kinases (JNK), and p38 were evaluated by Western blot. The results indicated that there existed cardiac dysfunction and cardiomyocyte apoptosis, accompanied by increasing catecholamine levels in TRM rats. Further investigation revealed that apoptosis was mediated by reducing Bcl-2, upregulating Bax, and activating caspase-3. Additional experiments demonstrated that P-ERK1/2 was decreased, whereas P-JNK and P-p38 were up-regulated. Our results suggest that the sympathetic nervous system activation and cardiomyocyte apoptosis are involved in the myocardial injury of TRM rats. The mechanisms of apoptosis might be associated with the activation of the mitochondria-initiated and the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways.
STUDYING κ MESON WITH A MILC FINE LATTICE
Authors: FU ZIWEN
Published: May 2013

Using the lattice simulations we measure the point-to-point κ correlators in the Asqtad-improved staggered fermion formulation with the sufficiently light u/d quark. We then analyze these correlators using the rooted staggered chiral perturbation theory (rSχPT). After the chiral extrapolation, we obtain the physical κ mass with 835±93 MeV , which is in agreement with the recent BES experimental values. These numerical simulations are carried out with the MILC Nf = 2+1 flavor fine gauge configurations at a lattice spacing of a ≈0.09 fm .
FROZEN IODINE MOLECULES IN NANO-PORES OF ZEOLITE SINGLE CRYSTALS
Authors: WANG DINGDI , GUO WENHAO , DU SHENGWANG , TANG Z. K.
Published: May 2013

We review the recent study of novel optical properties of iodine molecules trapped inside the nano-channels of single zeolite crystals. It has been verified by Raman spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulation that there are two favorite orientations of iodine molecules inside the AlPO 4-11 (AEL) and AlPO 4-5 (AFI) crystal channels: "lying" along the channel direction or "standing" inside the channel. Switching between the "lying" and "standing" configurations of iodine molecules inside the AEL crystals can be controlled by varying the density of water molecules inside the crystal channels. For extremely low iodine-loaded samples, the frozen "standing" iodine molecules in AEL crystals were observed whose Raman linewidth is independent of temperature. We also show that the radius of iodine atom can be determined from the fading nature and the broadening characteristics of overtones in Raman spectra of confined iodine molecules.
Orientation within a high magnetic field determines swimming direction and laterality of c-Fos induction in mice
Authors: Houpt Thomas A. , Kwon Bumsup , Houpt Charles E. , Neth Bryan , Smith James C.
Published: May 2013

High-strength static magnetic fields (>7 tesla) perturb the vestibular system causing dizziness, nystagmus, and nausea in humans; and head motion, locomotor circling, conditioned taste aversion, and c-Fos induction in brain stem vestibular nuclei in rodents. To determine the role of head orientation, mice were exposed for 15 min within a 14.1-tesla magnet at six different angles (mice oriented parallel to the field with the head toward B+ at 0°; or pitched rostrally down at 45°, 90°, 90° sideways, 135°, and 180°), followed by a 2-min swimming test. Additional mice were exposed at 0°, 90°, and 180° and processed for c-Fos immunohistochemistry. Magnetic field exposure induced circular swimming that was maximal at 0° and 180° but attenuated at 45° and 135°. Mice exposed at 0° and 45° swam counterclockwise, whereas mice exposed at 135° and 180° swam clockwise. Mice exposed at 90° (with their rostral-caudal axis perpendicular to the magnetic field) did not swim differently than controls. In parallel, exposure at 0° and 180° induced c-Fos in vestibular nuclei with left-right asymmetries that were reversed at 0° vs. 180°. No significant c-Fos was induced after 90° exposure. Thus, the optimal orientation for magnetic field effects is the rostral-caudal axis parallel to the field, such that the horizontal canal and utricle are also parallel to the field. These results have mechanistic implications for modeling magnetic field interactions with the vestibular apparatus of the inner ear (e.g., the model of Roberts et al. of an induced Lorenz force causing horizontal canal cupula deflection).
Mechanisms of adaptation in human auditory cortex
Authors: Lanting Cornelis P. , Briley Paul M. , Sumner Christian J. , Krumbholz Katrin
Published: May 2013

This study investigates the temporal properties of adaptation in the late auditory-evoked potentials in humans. The results are used to make inferences about the mechanisms of adaptation in human auditory cortex. The first experiment measured adaptation by single adapters as a combined function of the adapter duration and the stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA) and interstimulus interval (ISI) between the adapter and the adapted sound (“probe”). The results showed recovery from adaptation with increasing ISI, as would be expected, but buildup of adaptation with increasing adapter duration and thus SOA. This suggests that adaptation in auditory cortex is caused by the ongoing, rather than the onset, response to the adapter. Quantitative modeling indicated that the rate of buildup of adaptation is almost an order of magnitude faster than the recovery rate of adaptation. The recovery rate suggests that cortical adaptation is caused by synaptic depression and slow afterhyperpolarization. The P2 was more strongly affected by adaptation than the N1, suggesting that the two deflections originate from different cortical generators. In the second experiment, the single adapters were replaced by trains of two or four identical adapters. The results indicated that adaptation decays faster after repeated presentation of the adapter. This increase in the recovery rate of adaptation might contribute to the elicitation of the auditory mismatch negativity response. It may be caused by top-down feedback or by local processes such as the buildup of residual Ca2+ within presynaptic neurons.
Structural and Optoelectronic Properties of CdSe Tetrapod Nanocrystals for Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Truong Nguyen Tam Nguyen , Nguyen Thao Phuong Ngoc , Park Chinho
Published: May 2013

Semiconducting CdSe tetrapod nanoparticles were prepared, and their structural and optical properties were examined. The surface capping molecule, octylphosphonic acid, was replaced with butylamine after the particle synthesis. The exchange of surface ligands changed the physical properties of the nanocrystals, which resulted in a slight decrease in the nanoparticles size. The effects of changing surface ligands of CdSe tetrapod nanocrystals on the structural and optoelectronic properties were investigated, and it was found that the surfactant of nanoparticles could affect the device performance by enhancing the charge carrier separation at the active layer interfaces. Power conversion efficiency of the bulk heterojunction solar cells having the structure of glass/ITO/PEDOT:PSS/(CdSe + PCPDTBT)/Al was improved from 1.21% to 1.52% with the use of ligand-exchanged nanoparticles.
The Investigation of Bioactivity and Mechanical Properties of Glass Ionomer Cements Prepared from Al2O3‐SiO2 Glass and Poly(γ‐glutamic acid)
Authors: Liu Jinkun , Kuwahara Yoshimitsu , Shirosaki Yuki , Miyazaki Toshiki
Published: May 2013

The glass ionomer cement as one of the dental cements has been subjected to be widespread application in restoring tooth structure. Most of glass ionomer cements employ the poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) as the liquid phase, but the presence of PAA inhibits the apatite formation on the surface in the body environment, which is an essential requirement for exhibiting bone‐bonding ability (bioactivity). In this study, poly(γ‐glutamic acid) (γ‐PGA), a kind of biopolymer, was utilized for cement preparation. The effort of preparation parameters including the glass powders/liquid ratio (P/L) and the concentration of γ‐PGA on diametral tensile strength were investigated. A maximum diametral tensile strength value of 11.88 ± 1.43 MPa was obtained when the cement sample was prepared by P/L ratio of 1 : 1 and the γ‐PGA concentration of 30% after aging for 3 days. The TF‐XRD patterns, SEM images, and EDX spectra suggested that the cement induced a precipitation of calcite on the surface after 7 days of immersion in stimulated body fluid (SBF), although the apatite formation was not observed. The present results suggest that the cement has potential to show bioactivity in vivo, because calcite is also reported to be bioactive.
The Rare Case of a Probably True IgE-Mediated Allergy to Local Anaesthetics
Authors: Fellinger Christina , Wantke Felix , Hemmer Wolfgang , Sesztak-Greinecker Gabriele , Wöhrl Stefan
Published: May 2013

The majority of immediate type adverse reactions to local anaesthetics seem to be non-IgE-mediated. We report a case of a 31-year-old woman, who developed conjunctivitis and conjunctival erythema immediately after intrauterine application of a local anaesthetic. Skin prick testing and intradermal testing were done with lidocaine, mepivacaine, and procaine. Intradermal testing showed positive reactions to mepivacaine (1 : 10), undiluted lidocaine, and procaine (1 : 10 and undiluted). Specific IgE could be detected against mepivacaine, but not against latex. Serum tryptase was in the normal range. In order to rule out the exceptional case of a true IgE-mediated reaction, allergy testing with local anaesthetics is still required in the workup of patients.
Corporate Culture Assessments in Integrative Oncology: A Qualitative Case Study of Two Integrative Oncology Centers
Authors: Mittring Nadine , Pérard Marion , Witt Claudia M.
Published: May 2013

The offer of “integrative oncology” is one option for clinics to provide safe and evidence-based complementary medicine treatments to cancer patients. As known from merger theories, corporate culture and integration models have a strong influence on the success of such integration. To identify relevant corporate culture aspects that might influence the success in two highly visible integrative oncology clinics, we interviewed physicians, nurses, practitioners, and managers. All interviews (11 in a German breast cancer clinic and 9 in an integrative medicine cancer service in the USA) were audio-recorded, transcribed and analyzed with content analysis. According to the theoretical framework of mergers, each clinic selected a different integration type (“best of both worlds” and “linking”). Nonetheless, each developed a similar corporate culture that has a strong focus on research and safe and evidence-based treatments, and fosters a holistic and patient-centered approach. Structured communication within the team and with other departments had high relevance. Research was highlighted as a way to open doors and to facilitate a more general acceptance within the hospital. Conventional physicians felt unburdened by the provision of integrative medicine service but also saw problems in the time required for scheduled treatments, which often resulted in long waiting lists.
A Novel Load-Balancing Method and Device by Intelligent Grouping Compound Switches-Based Capacitor Banks Shunt Compensation
Authors: Sun Qiuye , Zhou Jianguo , Liu Xinrui , Yang Jun
Published: May 2013

A novel compensator topology is proposed for three-phase unbalanced loads in the distribution networks. The negative and zero sequence compensation networks are proposed using delta-connected and star-connected capacitor banks. The compensation networks are paralleled with the unbalanced load to achieve a perfect balancing of active power and a complete compensation of reactive power of the unbalanced load. Intelligent grouping compound switches are implemented to control the capacitors, where, therefore, each capacitor can be switched between phases or phase and ground. Wireless sensors are also applied to acquire the load quantities. The compensation method proposed is based on symmetrical component theory. In addition, the load compensation based on instantaneous symmetrical component theory with positive sequence online extraction is proposed under unbalanced and distorted source voltages. The proposed load-balancing method and device are applied to Liaoning, Neimenggu, and Jilin provinces. The application results are provided to validate the performance of the proposed compensator topology and compensation method.
Cardiovascular Biomarkers in ACS: State of the Art 2012
Authors: Giannitsis Evangelos , Katus Hugo A.
Published: May 2013

In the setting of an acute coronary syndrome cardiac troponins are well established for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction. In particular, diagnostic protocols using high-sensitivity troponin assays are being recommended for earlier diagnosis of MI by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines on the management of ACS without ST segment elevation. In addition to accurate detection of myocardial necrosis, cardiac troponins give complementary information on short- and long-term prognosis and facilitate the identification of patients who derive benefits from a more aggressive anticoagulation and/or early invasive therapy versus conservative therapy. Other cardiac biomarkers may help to improve earlier diagnosis or improve risk stratification. Their role is currently under investigation. The present state-of-the-art paper gives an overview on the role of cardiac troponins including recent recommendations on the use of high-sensitivity assays from the third version of the Joint ESC/ACCF/AHA/WHF infarct definition “Universal MI definition” and the ESC guidelines. In addition, an overview on the role of novel cardiac biomarkers in earlier diagnosis or risk stratification is provided.
Rising Prevalence and Neighborhood, Social, and Behavioral Determinants of Sleep Problems in US Children and Adolescents, 2003–2012
Authors: Singh Gopal K. , Kenney Mary Kay
Published: May 2013

We examined trends and neighborhood and sociobehavioral determinants of sleep problems in US children aged 6–17 between 2003 and 2012. The 2003, 2007, and 2011-2012 rounds of the National Survey of Children’s Health were used to estimate trends and differentials in sleep problems using logistic regression. Prevalence of sleep problems increased significantly over time. The proportion of children with <7 days/week of adequate sleep increased from 31.2% in 2003 to 41.9% in 2011-2012, whereas the prevalence of adequate sleep <5 days/week rose from 12.6% in 2003 to 13.6% in 2011-2012. Prevalence of sleep problems varied in relation to neighborhood socioeconomic and built-environmental characteristics (e.g., safety concerns, poor housing, garbage/litter, vandalism, sidewalks, and parks/playgrounds). Approximately 10% of children in neighborhoods with the most-favorable social environment had serious sleep problems, compared with 16.2% of children in neighborhoods with the least-favorable social environment. Children in neighborhoods with the fewest health-promoting amenities or the greatest social disadvantage had 37%–43% higher adjusted odds of serious sleep problems than children in the most-favorable neighborhoods. Higher levels of screen time, physical inactivity, and secondhand smoke exposure were associated with 20%–47% higher adjusted odds of sleep problems. Neighborhood conditions and behavioral factors are important determinants of sleep problems in children.
Modulation Effect in Oncothermia
Authors: Szasz Oliver , Andocs Gabor , Meggyeshazi Nora
Published: May 2013

Conventional hyperthermia is based on the local or systemic heating, which is measured by the realized temperature in the process. Oncothermia applies nanoheating, which means high energy absorption in the nanoscopic range of the malignant cell membrane selectively. This high temperature and its consequent stress create special effects: it evolves the possibility for chaperone proteins to be expressed on the outer membrane by softening the membrane and starts various excitations for programmed cell death of the targeted malignant cell. The process needs special delivery of the energy which selects as desired. A strict 13.56 MHz sinusoidal carrier frequency is amplitude modulated by time-fractal signals. The modulation is far from any sinus or other periodic patterns; it is a 1/f spectrum having definite templates for its construction. In some personalized cases, a definite template is used for the fractal pattern, which is copied from the actual character of the tumor pathology or any other specialty of the target.
Corticomuscular Activity Modeling by Combining Partial Least Squares and Canonical Correlation Analysis
Authors: Chen Xun , Liu Aiping , Wang Z. Jane , Peng Hu
Published: May 2013

Corticomuscular activity modeling based on multiple data sets such as electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) signals provides a useful tool for understanding human motor control systems. In this paper, we propose modeling corticomuscular activity by combining partial least squares (PLS) and canonical correlation analysis (CCA). The proposed method takes advantage of both PLS and CCA to ensure that the extracted components are maximally correlated across two data sets and meanwhile can well explain the information within each data set. This complementary combination generalizes the statistical assumptions beyond both PLS and CCA methods. Simulations were performed to illustrate the performance of the proposed method. We also applied the proposed method to concurrent EEG and EMG data collected in a Parkinson’s disease (PD) study. The results reveal several highly correlated temporal patterns between EEG and EMG signals and indicate meaningful corresponding spatial activation patterns. In PD subjects, enhanced connections between occipital region and other regions are noted, which is consistent with previous medical knowledge. The proposed framework is a promising technique for performing multisubject and bimodal data analysis.
Comparison of Adaptive Behavior Measures for Children with HFASDs
Authors: Lopata Christopher , Smith Rachael A. , Volker Martin A. , Thomeer Marcus L. , Lee Gloria K. , McDonald Christin A.
Published: May 2013

Adaptive behavior rating scales are frequently used to gather information on the adaptive functioning of children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASDs), yet little is known about the extent to which these measures yield comparable results. This study was conducted to (a) document the parent-rated VABS-II, BASC-2, and ABAS-II adaptive behavior profiles of 6- to 11-year-olds with HFASDs (including relative strengths and weaknesses); (b) examine the extent to which these measures yielded similar scores on comparable scales; and (c) assess potential discrepancies between cognitive ability and adaptive behavior across the measures. All three adaptive measures revealed significant deficits overall for the sample, with the VABS-II and ABAS-II indicating relative weaknesses in social skills and strengths in academic-related skills. Cross-measure comparisons indicated significant differences in the absolute magnitude of scores. In general, the VABS-II yielded significantly higher scores than the BASC-2 and ABAS-II. However, the VABS-II and ABAS-II yielded scores that did not significantly differ for adaptive social skills which is a critical area to assess for children with HFASDs. Results also indicated significant discrepancies between the children’s average IQ score and their scores on the adaptive domains and composites of the three adaptive measures.
Genotypic Characterization ofYersinia enterocoliticaBiotype 4/O:3 Isolates from Pigs and Slaughterhouses Using SE-AFLP, ERIC-PCR, and PFGE
Authors: Paixão Renata , Moreno Luisa Zanolli , Sena de Gobbi Débora Dirani , Raimundo Daniele Cristine , Ferreira Thais Sebastiana Porfida , Spindola Maria Garcia , Hofer Ernesto , Falavina dos Reis Cristhiane Moura , Matté Maria Helena , Micke Moreno Andrea
Published: May 2013

Yersinia enterocoliticais a foodborne pathogen that causes illness in humans and animals. The biotype 4/O:3 has been commonly associated with yersiniosis and is characterized by the presence of chromosomal and extra-chromosomal virulence genes. Molecular typing methods have been successfully used to characterizeY. enterocoliticagenetic heterogeneity and to study the epidemiology of the bacteria from different origins. In this study, 320Y. enterocoliticabiotype 4/O:3 isolates originating in pigs and slaughterhouses were characterized according to the virulence profile, and 61 isolates were typified through SE-AFLP, ERIC-PCR, and PFGE techniques. The majority of the isolates originated from pigs, and the predominant virulence profile wasail+virF+rfbC+ystA+, representing 83.4% of the tested isolates. All of theY. enterocolitica4/O:3 isolates were positive for at leastystAgene. The SE-AFLP and ERIC-PCR patterns were highly homogeneous. The SE-AFLP was more discriminative than the ERIC-PCR and tended to cluster isolates according to the slaughterhouse. Despite the limited genetic diversity ofY. enterocolitica4/O:3, PFGE was shown to be the most discriminative technique considering one band of difference. Fattening pigs proved to be an important reservoir ofY. enterocoliticabiotype 4/O:3 carrying virulence genes.
Photocatalytic Degradation of 2,4-Dichlorophenol Using Nanosized Na2Ti6O13/TiO2Heterostructure Particles
Authors: Jian Zicong , Huang Shaobin , Zhang Yongqing
Published: May 2013

Na2Ti6O13/TiO2composite particles were synthesized through the hydrolyzation of tetrabutyl titanate in a reverse microemulsion and characterized by thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The photocatalytic property of Na2Ti6O13/TiO2was evaluated by degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenol(2,4-DCP) under 40 W ultraviolet lamp (λ=365 nm) irradiation and compared with commercial P25-TiO2in the same condition. The results showed that the synthesized nanobelts Na2Ti6O13/TiO2heterostructures had typical width from 80 to 100 nm, with thickness less than 40 nm and length up to 5 μm. Such Na2Ti6O13/TiO2nanosized particles exhibited better photocatalytic activity than that of P25-TiO2, and the degradation rate of 2,4-DCP with initial concentration of 0.02 g/L reached 99.4% at the end of 50 min.
Improved Reliable Trust-Based and Energy-Efficient Data Aggregation for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Chen-xu , Liu Yun , Zhang Zhen-jiang
Published: May 2013

In wireless sensor networks, secure data aggregation is very important for reducing the quantity of data transmitted and prolonging the lifetime of wireless sensor networks. When wireless sensor networks are deployed in untrusted and hostile environments, their nodes are often compromised, which reduces the security and reliability of the transmitted data. Compromised nodes can inject erroneous data, selectively forward data to an adversary, impersonate legal nodes to join routing paths, and disrupt data transmission during the data-aggregation operation. Previous researchers have relied on reputation system to find compromised nodes and prevent attacks during the data-aggregation operation. In this paper, we propose an improved reliable, trust-based, and energy-efficient data-aggregation protocol for wireless sensor networks. We call the protocol the iRTEDA protocol, and it combines the reputation system, residual energy, link availability, and a recovery mechanism to improve secure data aggregation and ensure that the network is secure, reliable, and energy-efficient. Simulations have shown that the iRTEDA protocol exceeds the performances of other protocols from the perspectives of the accuracy of the data, the reliability of the routing path, the consumption of energy, and the lifetime of secure data aggregation.
Semiconductor Yield Forecasting Using Quadratic-Programming-Based Fuzzy Collaborative Intelligence Approach
Authors: Chen Toly , Wang Yu-Cheng
Published: May 2013

Several recent studies have proposed fuzzy collaborative forecasting methods for semiconductor yield forecasting. These methods establish nonlinear programming (NLP) models to consider the opinions of experts and generate fuzzy yield forecasts. Such a practice cannot distinguish between the different expert opinions and can not easily find the global optimal solution. In order to solve some problems and to improve the performance of semiconductor yield forecasting, this study proposes a quadratic-programming- (QP-) based fuzzy collaborative intelligence approach.
Multiplication of Fast Neutrons Source Flux by Using Deuterium-Helium-3 Plasma
Authors: Mahdavi Mohammad , Shahbahrami Maryam
Published: May 2013

The production of fast neutrons source is examined by
using a thermal neutron flux inside plasma. In order to
reach a favorable yield of fast neutrons flux, the parameters
such as energy loss rate, reaction probability, and neutron
absorption length are calculated. The nuclear
conversion efficiency, , of thermal neutron to fast neutrons is obtained to be by calculating the physical parameters for the plasma designed.
Nanostructured TiO2 Doped with Nb as a Novel Support for PEMFC
Authors: Valenzuela Edgar , Ramos-Sanchez Victor , Lambert Arista Alejandro Adolfo , Savadogo Oumarou
Published: May 2013

Nowadays, one of the major issues of the PEMFC concerns the durability. Historically, carbon has been used as a catalyst support in PEMFC; nevertheless, under the environmental conditions of the cell, the carbon is oxidized, leaving the catalyst unsupported. In order to increase the stability and durability of the catalyst in the PEMFC, a novel nanostructured metallic oxide support is proposed. In this work, TiO2 was doped with Nb to obtain a material that combines chemical stability, high surface area, and an adequate electronic conductivity in order to be a successful catalyst support candidate for long-term PEMFC applications. The TiO2-Nb nanostructured catalyst support was physically and electrochemically characterized. According to the results, the TiO2-Nb offers high surface area and good particle dispersion; also, the electrochemical activity and stability of the support were evaluated under high potential conditions, where the TiO2-Nb proved to be much more stable than carbon.
EOQ Models with Varying Holding Cost
Authors: Ghasemi Naser , Afshar Nadjafi Behrouz
Published: May 2013

Models of inventory management contain different parameters. An issue is observable in the classical models which can be related to the determination of the quantity of the economic order and the quantity of the economic production. In these models, the parameters like setup and holding costs and also the rate of demands are fixed. This matter causes the quantity of the economic ordering in classic model to have some differences in comparison with the real-world conditions. It should be stated that holding cost of spoiled and useless products is not always fixed and so the costs increase by passing the time. This paper is an attempt to develop classical EOQ models by considering holding cost as an increasing function of the ordering cycle length. So the classical EOQ models are developed, and the related optimum quantity to the ordering cycle length, economic ordering quantity, and the optimum total cost are determined.
Optimal Size of Gold Nanoparticles for Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy under Different Conditions
Authors: Hong Seongmin , Li Xiao
Published: May 2013

Gold nanoparticles have been used as effective surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates for decades. However, the origin of the enhancement and the effect of the size of nanoparticles still need clarification. Here, gold nanoparticles with different sizes from 17 to 80 nm were synthesized and characterized, and their SERS enhancement toward both 4‐aminothiophenol and 4‐nitrothiophenol was examined. For the same number of nanoparticles, the enhancement factor generated from the gold nanoparticles increases as the size of nanoparticles increases. Interestingly, when the concentration of gold or the total surface area of gold nanoparticles was kept the same, the optimal size of gold nanoparticles was found out to be around 50 nm when the enhancement factor reached a maximum. The same size effect was observed for both 4‐aminothiophenol and 4‐nitrothiophenol, which suggests that the conclusions drawn in this study might also be applicable to other adsorbates during SERS measurements.
The Mechanisms of Chansu in Inducing Efficient Apoptosis in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Chun , Hashimi Saeed M. , Cao Siyu , Mellick Albert S. , Duan Wei , Good David , Wei Ming Q.
Published: May 2013

Chansu is one of the most widely used traditional Chinese medicines in China, Japan, and other Southeast Asian countries primarily for antipain, anti-inflammation, and recently anticancer. Over 10 recipes and remedies contained Chansu, which are easily available in pharmacies and hospitals, but the mechanisms of action were not clearly articulated. In the present study, Cinobufagin (CBF), the major compound of Chansu, was employed as a surrogate marker to determine its ability in inducing cancer cell death. As expected, CBF has significant cancer-killing capacity for a range of cancers, but such ability differs markedly. Colon and prostate cancers are more sensitive than skin and lung cancers. Interestingly, cancer cells die through apoptotic pathway either being biphasic caspase-3-dependent (HCT116) or independent (HT29). Multipathway analysis reveals that CBF-induced apoptosis is likely modulated by the hypoxia-inducing factor-1 alpha subunit (HIF-1α) as its inhibition was evidentin vitroandin vivo. Taken together, these results demonstrate that CBF is a potent apoptotic inducer with potential for further development as a novel and effective anticancer agent for a range of cancers, especially colon cancer.
Use of a New Ocular Insert versus Conventional Mydriasis in Cataract Surgery
Authors: Torrón C. , Calvo P. , Ruiz-Moreno O. , Leciñena J. , Pérez-Iñigo A.
Published: May 2013

Background. To compare the efficacy and safety of a new ocular insert versus conventional mydriasis in cataract surgery.Methods. We selected 70 patients undergoing cataract surgery. Thirty five patients (Group 1) received instillation of mydriatic drops (tropicamide 1%, phenylephrine 10%, and cyclopentolate 1%) prior to surgery, and 35 patients (Group 2) had a Mydriasert insert (Théa Pharma) (0.28 mg of tropicamide and 5.4 mg of phenylephrine hydrochloride) placed in the inferior fornix. Pupil size before and after surgery, blood pressure, and heart rate were measured.Results. Before surgery, pupil diameter was  mm in Group 1 and in Group 2 (). Twenty four hours after surgery, pupil diameter was  mm in Group 1 and in Group 2 (). There were no statistically significant differences in blood pressure or heart rate between groups.Conclusions. The effect of the Mydriasert insert was similar to conventional mydriatic agents. Pupil size was restored to normal faster when using the Mydriasert insert compared with conventional mydriatic agents for pupil dilation.
Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery in Pediatric Patients: The Taiwan Experience
Authors: Huang Yu-Kai , Chou Chieh , Li Chung-Liang , Chiu Hui-Gin , Chang Yu-Tang
Published: May 2013

Minimally invasive technology or laparoscopic surgery underwent a major breakthrough over the past two decades. The first experience of thoracoscopy in children was reported around 1980 for diagnosis of intrathoracic pathology and neoplasia. Up until the middle of the 1990s, the surgical community in Taiwan was still not well prepared to accept the coming era of minimally invasive surgery. In the beginning, laparoscopy was performed in only a few specialties and only relatively short or simple surgeries were considered. But now, the Taiwan’s experiences over the several different clinical scenarios were dramatically increased. Therefore, we elaborated on the experience about pectus excavatum: Nuss procedure, primary spontaneous hemopneumothorax, thoracoscopic thymectomy, and empyema in Taiwan.
Radionuclide Small Intestine Imaging
Authors: Dolezal Jiri , Kopacova Marcela
Published: May 2013

The aim of this overview article is to present the current possibilities of radionuclide scintigraphic small intestine imaging. Nuclear medicine has a few methods—scintigraphy with red blood cells labelled by means ofTc99mfor detection of the source of bleeding in the small intestine, Meckel’s diverticulum scintigraphy for detection of the ectopic gastric mucosa, radionuclide somatostatin receptor imaging for carcinoid, and radionuclide inflammation imaging. Video capsule or deep enteroscopy is the method of choice for detection of most lesions in the small intestine. Small intestine scintigraphies are only a complementary imaging method and can be successful, for example, for the detection of the bleeding site in the small intestine, ectopic gastric mucosa, carcinoid and its metastasis, or inflammation. Radionuclide scintigraphic small intestine imaging is an effective imaging modality in the localisation of small intestine lesions for patients in whom other diagnostic tests have failed to locate any lesions or are not available.
Health Effects of Coastal Storms and Flooding in Urban Areas: A Review and Vulnerability Assessment
Authors: Lane Kathryn , Charles-Guzman Kizzy , Wheeler Katherine , Abid Zaynah , Graber Nathan , Matte Thomas
Published: May 2013

Coastal storms can take a devastating toll on the public's health. Urban areas like New York City (NYC) may be particularly at risk, given their dense population, reliance on transportation, energy infrastructure that is vulnerable to flood damage, and high-rise residential housing, which may be hard-hit by power and utility outages. Climate change will exacerbate these risks in the coming decades. Sea levels are rising due to global warming, which will intensify storm surge. These projections make preparing for the health impacts of storms even more important. We conducted a broad review of the health impacts of US coastal storms to inform climate adaptation planning efforts, with a focus on outcomes relevant to NYC and urban coastal areas, and incorporated some lessons learned from recent experience with Superstorm Sandy. Based on the literature, indicators of health vulnerability were selected and mapped within NYC neighborhoods. Preparing for the broad range of anticipated effects of coastal storms and floods may help reduce the public health burden from these events.