bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Approaches to Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Hartmann Daniel , Friess Helmut
Published: November 2015

Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive inflammatory disease resulting in permanent structural damage of the pancreas. It is mainly characterized by recurring epigastric pain and pancreatic insufficiency. In addition, progression of the disease might lead to additional complications, such as pseudocyst formation or development of pancreatic cancer. The medical and surgical treatment of chronic pancreatitis has changed significantly in the past decades. With regard to surgical management, pancreatic head resection has been shown to be a mainstay in the treatment of severe chronic pancreatitis because the pancreatic head mass is known to trigger the chronic inflammatory process. Over the years, organ-preserving procedures, such as the duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection and the pylorus-preserving Whipple, have become the surgical standard and have led to major improvements in pain relief, preservation of pancreatic function, and quality of life of patients.
Construction of Analytic Solution for Time-Fractional Boussinesq Equation Using Iterative Method
Authors: Xu Fei , Gao Yixian , Zhang Weipeng
Published: November 2015

This paper is aimed at constructing analytical solution for both linear and nonlinear time-fractional Boussinesq equations by an iterative method. By the iterative process, we can obtain the analytic solution of the fourth-order time-fractional Boussinesq equation inR,R2, andRn, the sixth-order time-fractional Boussinesq equation, and the2nth-order time-fractional Boussinesq equation inR. Through these examples, it shows that the method is simple and effective.
Vulvar Epidermoid Cyst and Type 2 Radical Genital Mutilation
Authors: Birge Ozer , Ozbey Ertugrul Gazi , Arslan Deniz , Erkan Mustafa Melih , Demir Feyza , Akgor Utku
Published: November 2015

About 100 million women are estimated to be circumcised globally. Various rates of complications have been encountered, especially after circumcision, such as bleeding, infection, shock, menstrual irregularity, difficulty in urination or common urinary tract infections, inguinal pain, difficulty in sexual intercourse, and genital circumcision scar especially at the vulvar region, and cystic or solid character mass in short and long term. Furthermore, the maternal-fetal morbidity and mortality increase due to bleeding and fistula, which develop after prolonged labor, travail, and difficult labors. Our aim in this paper was to discuss a 42-year-old multiparous female case who had undergone type 2 radical genital mutilation (circumcision) when she was 7 years of age, along with the literature, which has been evaluated for the gradually growing mass at the left inguinal canal region in the last 10 years and diagnosed as epidermoid inclusion cyst developing secondary to postcircumcision surgical ground trauma, since there was no other case found in the literature search that had been circumcised at such an early age and developing after circumcision at such advanced age, and, therefore, this is suggested to be the first case on this subject.
Recurrent Postmyocardial Infarction Ventricular Tachycardia: An Unusual Culprit
Authors: Sharma Akhil Kumar , Jain Nirdesh , Safal Safal , Kumar Vikas , Dwivedi Sudhanshu Kumar
Published: November 2015

Although temporary transvenous pacing is life-saving in patients with myocardial infarction who develop bradyarrhythmias, the electrical complications resulting from it can be fatal and are rarely reported. We report here a patient with acute inferior wall myocardial infarction who required temporary transvenous pacing due to second-degree atrioventricular block accompanied with hypotension. Following coronary angiography and successful revascularisation, the patient developed multiple episodes of monomorphic and polymorphic ventricular tachycardia as well as ventricular fibrillation which on careful inspection were found to be initiated by fusion of the intrinsic and paced complexes. The problem of malignant ventricular tachycardia was solved by simple removal of the pacing lead. To the best of our knowledge, malignant ventricular tachycardia of both monomorphic and polymorphic types initiated by fusion complexes in a paced patient has not been reported in literature.
Actual Evapotranspiration in Suli Alpine Meadow in Northeastern Edge of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Wu Jin-kui , Zhang Shi-qiang , Wu Hao , Liu Shi-wei , Qin Yu , Qin Jia
Published: November 2015

Actual evapotranspiration was observed by using eddy covariance (EC) technique, calculated by micrometeorological method the Bowen ratio energy balance (BREB) and measured by micro-lysimeter (ML) in the Suli alpine meadow which located in the northeastern edge of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau noted for its high elevation and cold environment during the growing season in 2011. Results showed that the energy balance ratio for half-hour data was 0.74. Without consideration of uncertainty, the evapotranspiration values estimated by BREB, ML, and EC were 270.6 mm, 238.9 mm, and 236.1 mm, respectively. Significant correlation existed between the evapotranspiration results by the three methods. Uncertainties of the evapotranspiration estimation by BREB, ML, and EC were 19.6 mm, 15.6 mm, and 15.1 mm, respectively. Deduced by facts on the natural and vegetation conditions, the value of evapotranspiration should be equal to that of precipitation, that is, about 252 mm. From this point, the evapotranspiration values estimated by the three methods were within a reliable range. The EC method has larger advantage and wider scope for the estimation of evapotranspiration in alpine meadow area.
A Bee Colony Optimization Approach for Mixed Blocking Constraints Flow Shop Scheduling Problems
Authors: Khorramizadeh Mostafa , Riahi Vahid
Published: November 2015

The flow shop scheduling problems with mixed blocking constraints with minimization of makespan are investigated. The Taguchi orthogonal arrays and path relinking along with some efficient local search methods are used to develop a metaheuristic algorithm based on bee colony optimization. In order to compare the performance of the proposed algorithm, two well-known test problems are considered. Computational results show that the presented algorithm has comparative performance with well-known algorithms of the literature, especially for the large sized problems.
Primary Bilateral Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma of the Adrenal Gland Presenting as Incidental Adrenal Masses
Authors: Rizzo Christopher , Camilleri David James , Betts Alexandra , Gatt Andre’ , Fava Stephen
Published: November 2015

Although lymphoma may occasionally involve the adrenal glands as part of a generalized disease process, primary adrenal lymphoma (PAL) is a rare disease. We present a case of a 62-year-old woman with a history of mild/moderate hereditary spherocytosis with a well-compensated baseline haemoglobin, who presented with rapidly progressive symptomatic anaemia. During the diagnostic workup, imaging revealed bilateral large adrenal masses and she was later diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (DLBCL), with the adrenal glands being the dominant site of the disease. The patient was started on systemic chemotherapy, but her disease progressed with neurological involvement which responded to second-line therapy. Her adrenal disease however was refractory to further therapy.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Status Epilepticus
Authors: Zeiler F. A. , Matuszczak M. , Teitelbaum J. , Gillman L. M. , Kazina C. J.
Published: November 2015

Background. Our goal was to perform a systematic review on the use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in the treatment of status epilepticus (SE) and refractory status epilepticus (RSE). Methods. MEDLINE, BIOSIS, EMBASE, Global Health, Healthstar, Scopus, Cochrane Library, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, clinicaltrials.gov (inception to August 2015), and gray literature were searched. The strength of evidence was adjudicated using Oxford and GRADE methodology. Results. We identified 11 original articles. Twenty-one patients were described, with 13 adult and 8 pediatric. All studies were retrospective. Seizure reduction/control with rTMS occurred in 15 of the 21 patients (71.4%), with 5 (23.8%) and 10 (47.6%) displaying partial and complete responses, respectively. Seizures recurred after rTMS in 73.3% of the patients who had initially responded. All studies were an Oxford level 4, GRADE D level of evidence. Conclusions. Oxford level 4, GRADE D evidence exists to suggest a potential impact on seizure control with the use of rTMS for FSE and FRSE, though durability of the therapy is short-lived. Routine use of rTMS in this context cannot be recommended at this time. Further prospective study of this intervention is warranted.
Development of Sensitive and Specific Analysis of Vildagliptin in Pharmaceutical Formulation by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Uçaktürk Ebru
Published: November 2015

A sensitive and selective gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method was developed and fully validated for the determination of vildagliptin (VIL) in pharmaceutical formulation. Prior to GC-MS analysis, VIL was efficiently derivatized with MSTFA/NH4I/β-mercaptoethanol at 60°C for 30 min. The obtained O-TMS derivative of VIL was detected by selected ion monitoring mode using the diagnostic ionsm/z223 and 252. Nandrolone was chosen as internal standard. The GC-MS method was fully validated by the following validation parameters: limit of detection (LOD) and quantitation (LOQ), linearity, precision, accuracy, specificity, stability, robustness, and ruggedness. LOD and LOQ were found to be 1.5 and 3.5 ng mL−1, respectively. The GC-MS method is linear in the range of 3.5–300 ng mL−1. The intra- and interday precision values were less than ≤3.62%. The intra- and interday accuracy values were found in the range of-0.26–2.06%. Finally, the GC-MS method was successfully applied to determine VIL in pharmaceutical formulation.
Northern Hemisphere Climatology and Interannual Variability of Storm Tracks in NCEP’s CFS Model
Authors: Eichler Timothy Paul , Alvarez Francisco , Gottschalck Jon
Published: November 2015

Evaluating the climatology and interannual variability of storm tracks in climate models represents an excellent way to evaluate their ability to simulate synoptic-scale phenomena. We generate storm tracks from the National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Climate Forecast System (CFS) model for the northern hemisphere (NH) and compare them to storm tracks generated from NCEP’s reanalysis I data, the European Centre for Medium Range Prediction (ECMWF) ERA40 data, and CFS reanalysis data. To assess interannual variability, we analyze the impacts of El Niño, the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). We show that the CFS model is capable of simulating realistic storm tracks for frequency and intensity in the NH. The CFS storm tracks exhibit a reasonable response to El Niño and the NAO. However, it did not capture interannual variability for the IOD. Since one path by which storm tracks respond to external forcing is via Rossby waves due to anomalous heating, the CFS model may not be able to capture this effect especially since anomalous heating for the IOD is more local than El Niño. Our assessment is that the CFS model’s storm track response is sensitive to the strength of external forcing.
Resveratrol Protects PC12 Cell against 6-OHDA Damage via CXCR4 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Jing , Fan Wenchuang , Wang Hui , Bao Lihua , Li Guibao , Li Tao , Song Shouyang , Li Hongyu , Hao Jing , Sun Jinhao
Published: November 2015

Resveratrol, herbal nonflavonoid polyphenolic compound naturally derived from grapes, has long been acknowledged to possess extensive biological and pharmacological properties including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ones and may exert a neuroprotective effect on neuronal damage in neurodegenerative diseases. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain undefined. In the present study, we intended to investigate the neuroprotective effects of resveratrol against 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity of PC12 cells and further explore the possible mechanisms involved. For this purpose, PC12 cells were exposed to 6-OHDA in the presence of resveratrol (0, 12.5, 25, and 50 μM). The results showed that resveratrol increased cell viability, alleviated the MMP reduction, and reduced the number of apoptotic cells as measured by MTT assay, JC-1 staining, and Hoechst/PI double staining (allp<0.01). Immunofluorescent staining and Western blotting revealed that resveratrol averts 6-OHDA induced CXCR4 upregulation (p<0.01). Our results demonstrated that resveratrol could effectively protect PC12 cells from 6-OHDA-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis via CXCR4 signaling pathway.
Effect of Zn/ZSM-5 and FePO4Catalysts on Cellulose Pyrolysis
Authors: Xia Haian , Yan Xiaopei , Xu Siquan , Yang Li , Ge Yuejie , Wang Jing , Zuo Songlin
Published: November 2015

A series of Zn/ZSM-5 catalysts with different Zn contents and FePO4were used to pyrolyze cellulose to produce value added chemicals. The nature of these catalysts was characterized by ammonia-temperature programmed desorption (NH3-TPD), IR spectroscopy of pyridine adsorption, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. Noncatalytic and catalytic pyrolytic behaviors of cellulose were studied by thermogravimetric (TG) technique. The pyrolytic liquid products, that is, the biooils, were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The major components of the biooils are anhydrosugars such as levoglucosan (LGA), 1,6-anhydro-β-D-glucofuranose (AGF), levoglucosenone (LGO, 1,6-anhydro-3,4-dideoxy-β-D-pyranosen-2-one), and 1,4:3,6-dianhydro-α-D-glucopyranose (DGP), as well as furan derivatives, alcohols, and so forth. Zn/ZSM-5 samples with Brønsted and Lewis acid sites and the FePO4catalyst with Lewis acid sites were found to have a significant effect on the pyrolytic behaviors of cellulose and product distribution. These results show that Brønsted and Lewis acid sites modified remarkably components of the biooil, which could promote the production of furan compounds and LGO. On the basis of the findings, a model was proposed to describe the pyrolysis pathways of cellulose catalyzed by the solid acid catalysts.
Growing Up: Not an Easy Transition—Perspectives of Patients and Parents regarding Transfer from a Pediatric Liver Transplant Center to Adult Care
Authors: Chandra Sona , Luetkemeyer Shannon , Romero Rene , Gupta Nitika Arora
Published: November 2015

The transition from pediatric to adult care is a critical time when children with chronic illness sustain high morbidity and mortality. Transition services need to be focused on the adolescents’ needs, which may differ from those perceived by healthcare providers. In this study, a survey of 31 patients with chronic liver disease and/or liver transplant who were “transferred” to adult services within the last 3 years was conducted. Patients were asked about their current health status and their perceptions of the overall transfer process. The mean age at transfer was 19.81 (18–21) years. Almost half the patients (47%) were not seen at the adult facility until 2–6 months after leaving the Children’s hospital and 20% were not seen until 6–12 months. About 20% had their first contact with adult services through an emergency room visit. About 19% reported being out of medication during transition. Of the transplanted patients, 19% were being evaluated for a retransplant. The majority (82%) felt that an increased emphasis on promoting independence and “letting go” both by parents and by pediatric care providers was critical in their transition to independence and adult care services. This study provides thought-provoking insights, which are critical in designing the ideal transition program for children with chronic diseases.
Recent Changes in the Annual Mean Regional Hadley Circulation and Their Impacts on South America
Authors: Freitas Ana Carolina Vasques , Ambrizzi Tércio
Published: November 2015

This work employs the regional climate model RegCM4 and observational datasets to investigate the impacts of changes in the intensity and poleward edge of regional HC over South America (HCSA) on the patterns of wind, geopotential height, precipitation, and temperature during the period 1996–2011. Significant trends of HCSA intensification and poleward expansion are found during the period analyzed. To evaluate the effects of these changes over SA, two composites, representing the intensification and poleward expansion cases, are examined separately. Significant correlations are seen between the temperature, zonal wind, and the HCSA intensity over the northern, central, and southern regions of SA and South Atlantic. Results show that, in both composites, regions with anomalous easterly (westerly) winds coming from (towards) the Atlantic Ocean have negative (positive) correlations with the HCSA intensity and poleward edge. The model performance varies regionally and the southern SA region exhibits better agreement with the observations. The role of the sea surface temperatures in driving the changes in the HCSA is examined. Notable similarity is found in the results for the two cases analyzed, which could indicate that, in most cases, the changes in the intensity and poleward edge of the HCSA are occurring simultaneously.
Linking Endotoxins, African Dust PM10 and Asthma in an Urban and Rural Environment of Puerto Rico
Authors: Ortiz-Martínez Mario G. , Rodríguez-Cotto Rosa I. , Ortiz-Rivera Mónica A. , Pluguez-Turull Cedric W. , Jiménez-Vélez Braulio D.
Published: November 2015

African Dust Events (ADE) are a seasonal phenomenon that has been suggested to exacerbate respiratory and proinflammatory diseases in Puerto Rico (PR). Increases in PM10 concentration and the effects of biological endotoxins (ENX) are critical factors to consider during these storms. ENX promote proinflammatory responses in lungs of susceptible individuals through activation of the Toll‐like receptors (TLR2/4) signaling pathways. The objective of the study was to evaluate the toxicological and proinflammatory responses stimulated by ADE PM10 ENX reaching PR using human bronchial epithelial cells. PM10 organic extracts from a rural and urban site in PR (March 2004) were obtained from ADE and non‐ADE and compared. A retrospective data analysis (PM10 concentration, aerosol images, and pediatric asthma claims) was performed from 2000 to 2012 with particular emphasis in 2004 to classify PM samples. Urban extracts were highly toxic, proinflammatory (IL‐6/IL‐8 secretion), and induced higher TLR4 expression and NF‐κB activation compared to rural extracts. ENX were found to contribute to cytotoxicity and inflammatory responses provoked by urban ADE PM10 exposure suggesting a synergistic potency of local and natural ENX incoming from ADE. The contribution of ADE PM10 ENX is valuable in order to understand interactions and action mechanisms of airborne pollutants as asthma triggers in PR.
Severe Legionnaires’ Disease Complicated by Rhabdomyolysis and Clinically Resistant to Moxifloxacin in a Splenectomised Patient: Too Much of a Coincidence?
Authors: Koufakis Theocharis , Gabranis Ioannis , Chatzopoulou Marianneta , Margaritis Anastasios , Tsiakalou Maria
Published: November 2015

We here report a case of Legionnaires’ disease in a splenectomised patient, complicated by rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure and characterized by a poor clinical response to moxifloxacin. Splenectomy is not included among the factors, typically associated with higher risk or mortality in patients with Legionellosis. However, our report is consistent with previous case reports describing severeLegionellainfections in asplenic subjects. The possibility that functional or anatomic asplenia may be a factor predisposing to severe clinical course or poor response to therapy in patients withLegionellainfection cannot be excluded, deserving further investigation in the future. More studies are required in order to clarify the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that connect asplenia, immunological response toLegionella, and pathogen’s resistance to antibiotics.
The Composition, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Cold-Pressed and Distilled Essential Oils ofCitrus paradisiandCitrus grandis(L.) Osbeck
Authors: Ou Ming-Chiu , Liu Yi-Hsin , Sun Yung-Wei , Chan Chin-Feng
Published: November 2015

The chemical composition and functional activities of cold-pressed and water distilled peel essential oils ofCitrus paradisi(C. paradisi) andCitrus grandis(L.) Osbeck (C. grandis) were investigated in present study. Yields of cold-pressed oils were much higher than those of distilled oils. Limonene was the primary ingredient of essential oils ofC. paradisi(cold 92.83%; distilled 96.06%) andC. grandis(cold 32.63%; distilled 55.74%). In addition,C. grandisoils obtained were rich in oxygenated or nitrogenated compounds which may be involved in reducing cardiovascular diseases or enhancing sleep effectiveness. The order of free radical scavenging activities of 4 citrus oils was distilledC. paradisioil > cold-pressedC. paradisioil > distilledC. grandisoil > cold-pressedC. grandisoil. Cold-pressedC. grandisoil exhibited the lowest activity in all antioxidative assays. The order of antimicrobial activities of 4 citrus oils was distilledC. grandisoil, cold-pressedC. paradisioil > distilledC. paradisioil > cold-pressedC. paradisioil. Surprisingly, distilledC. grandisoil exhibited better antimicrobial activities than distilledC. paradisioil, especially againstEscherichia coliandSalmonella entericasubsp. The results also indicated that the antimicrobial activities of essential oils may not relate to their antioxidative activities.
Study on the Difference of BIS/BAS Scale between Sasang Types
Authors: Lee Soo Jin , Kim Sung Hye , Lim Nangyeon , Ahn Mi Young , Chae Han
Published: November 2015

Introduction. The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in temperament between So-Yang (SY) and So-Eum (SE) Sasang types using Behavioral Inhibition System/Behavioral Activation System (BIS/BAS) scale to elucidate the biopsychological mechanism underlying the Sasang typology, a traditional Korean personalized medicine.Methods. 248 university students were categorized into three Sasang types, and series oft-tests were conducted, separately for male and female participants, to examine the difference of Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS), Behavioral Activation System (BAS), BAS-Drive (BAS-D), BAS-Fun Seeking (BAS-FS), and BAS-Reward Responsiveness (BAS-RR) scores between SY and SE Sasang types.Results. There were significant differences between Sasang types in the BIS/BAS subscales with consideration of gender. In male participants, BAS-total score of SY type (39.75±4.56) was significantly (t=2.462,p=0.016) higher than that of SE type (36.68±4.97). On the other hand, in female participants, BIS score of SY type (20.10±4.01) was significantly (t=-2.097,p=0.039) lower than that of SE type (21.83±3.91).Discussion. The current study suggested relationship between Sasang typology and Behavior Inhibition and Activation Systems and showed significant differences in BIS/BAS scale between SY and SE Sasang types. Further studies on biological base of Sasang typology are needed.
Acridine Orange and Flow Cytometry: Which Is Better to Measure the Effect of Varicocele on Sperm DNA Integrity?
Authors: Mohammed Essam-Elden M. , Mosad Eman , Zahran Asmaa M. , Hameed Diaa A. , Taha Emad A. , Mohamed Mohamed A.
Published: November 2015

We evaluated the effect of varicocelectomy on semen parameters and levels of sperm DNA damage in infertile men. A total of 75 infertile men with varicocele and 40 fertile men (controls) were included in this study. Semen analysis and sperm DNA damage expressed as the DNA fragmentation index using acridine orange staining and chromatin condensation test by flow cytometry were assessed before and 6 months after varicocelectomy. The patients were also followed up for 1 year for pregnancy outcome. Semen parameters were significantly lower in varicocele patients compared to controls (P<0.05). Mean percentages of sperm DNA fragmentation and sperm DNA chromatin condensation in patients were significantly higher than those in controls (P<0.05). After varicocelectomy, sperm DNA fragmentation improved significantly, whereas sperm chromatin condensation was not significantly changed. In 15 out of 75 varicocele patients, clinical pregnancy was diagnosed; those with positive pregnancy outcome had significant improvement in sperm count, progressive sperm motility, and sperm DNA fragmentation, but there was no significant difference in sperm DNA condensation compared to negative pregnancy outcome patients. We concluded from this study that acridine orange stain is more reliable method than flow cytometry in the evaluation of sperm DNA integrity after varicocelectomy.
Control Strategy for Power Distribution in Dual Motor Propulsion System for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Urbina Coronado Pedro Daniel , Ahuett-Garza Horacio
Published: November 2015

Electric Vehicles with more than one electric motor can offer advantages in saving energy from the batteries. In order to do that, the control strategy plays an important role in distributing the required torque between the electric motors. A dual motor propulsion system with a differential transmission is simulated in this work. A rule based control strategy for this propulsion system is proposed and analyzed. Two parameters related to the output speed of the transmission and the required torque are used to switch the two modes of operation in which the propulsion system can work under acceleration. The effect of these parameters is presented over the driving cycles of NEDC, UDDS, and NYCC, which are followed using a PID controller. The produced energy losses are calculated as well as an indicator of drivability, which is related to the difference between the desired speed and the actual speed obtained. The results show that less energy losses are present when the vehicle is maintained with one electric motor most of the time, switching only when the extended speed granted by the second motor is required. The propulsion system with the proposed control strategy represents a feasible alternative in the spectrum of sustainable transportation architectures with extending range capabilities.
Dynamics of a General Stochastic Nonautonomous Lotka-Volterra Model with Delays and Impulsive Perturbations
Authors: Wang Qing , Yu Yongguang , Zhang Shuo
Published: November 2015

A stochastic nonautonomous N-species Lotka-Volterra model with delays and impulsive perturbations is investigated. For this model, sufficient conditions for extinction, nonpersistence in the mean, weak persistence and stochastic permanence are given, respectively. The influences of the stochastic noises, and the impulsive perturbations on the properties of the stochastic model are also discussed. The critical value between weak persistence and extinction is obtained. Finally, numerical simulations are given to support the theoretical analysis results.
Hydrograph Separation in the Headwaters of the Shule River Basin: Combining Water Chemistry and Stable Isotopes
Authors: Zhou Jiaxin , Wu Jinkui , Liu Shiwei , Zeng Guoxiong , Qin Jia , Wang Xiuna , Zhao Qiudong
Published: November 2015

The runoff components were identified in the headwater area of Shule River Basin, using isotopic and chemical tracing with particular focus on the temporal variations of catchment sources. A total of 95 samples, including precipitation, groundwater, and glacial meltwater, were collected and analyzed for stable water isotopes (18O and2H) and major chemical ion parameters (potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, sulfate, chloride, and bicarbonate). Based on the isotope and water chemistry data, we applied end member mixing analysis (EMMA) to identify and quantify the major runoff generating sources and their contributions. The contributions of groundwater, precipitation, and glacial meltwater were 66.7%, 19.9%, and 13.4%, respectively. The study indicated that groundwater dominated runoff in the headwater area of Shule River Basin. The roles of glacier meltwater should be remarkable in water resource management in this basin. The uncertainties of the EMMA method were summarized and estimated via a classical Gaussian error propagation technique. Analyses suggested that the uncertainty in the measurement method was less important than that in the temporal and spatial variations of tracer concentrations. The uncertainty was sensitive when the difference between mixing components was small. Therefore, the variation of tracers and the difference of mixing components should be considered when hydrograph separation was applied in the basin.
Comparison of Chemical and Mechanical Prophylaxis of Venous Thromboembolism in Nonsurgical Mechanically Ventilated Patients
Authors: Gaspard Dany , Vito Karen , Schorr Christa , Hunter Krystal , Gerber David
Published: November 2015

Background. Thromboembolic events are major causes of morbidity, and prevention is important. We aimed to compare chemical prophylaxis (CP) and mechanical prophylaxis (MP) as methods of prevention in nonsurgical patients on mechanical ventilation. Methods. We performed a retrospective study of adult patients admitted to the Cooper University Hospital ICU between 2002 and 2010. Patients on one modality of prophylaxis throughout their stay were included. The CP group comprised 329 patients and the MP group 419 patients. The primary outcome was incidence of thromboembolic events. Results. Acuity measured by APACHE II score was comparable between the two groups (p=0.215). Univariate analysis showed 1 DVT/no PEs in the CP group and 12 DVTs/1 PE in the MP group (p=0.005). Overall mortality was 34.3% and 50.6%, respectively. ICU LOS was similar. Hospital LOS was shorter in the MP group. Multivariate analysis showed a significantly higher incidence of events in the MP prophylaxis group (odds ratio 9.9). After excluding patients admitted for bleeding in both groups, repeat analysis showed again increased events in the MP group (odds ratio 2.9) but this result did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion. Chemical methods for DVT/PE prophylaxis seem superior to mechanical prophylaxis in nonsurgical patients on mechanical ventilation and should be used when possible.
Patterns of Benign and Malignant Lesions of the Thyroid in Two Wilayahs of Northeastern Algeria
Authors: Guidoum Mona , Kherfi-Kadi Hind , Benharkat-Boughaba Ouahiba , Djemaa-Bendjazia Aicha , Keghouche Sihem , Abedi-Ardekani Behnoush , Azzouz Amina , Kadi Yacine , Hainaut Pierre , Bouslama Zihad
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study is to compare histological patterns and to estimate the burden of thyroid cancers in the two Wilayahs (departments) of El-Taref and Guelma in northeast of Algeria (total population 0.9 million), locally reputed as having different rates of endemic thyroid diseases and cancer. A retrospective analysis of central pathology registers and clinical records of patients with thyroid diseases, covering the period 2008–2012, was conducted. A total of 145 cases of thyroid cancers with histological confirmation were registered in the two Wilayahs during the period, with a female to male ratio of 5.9 : 1. Estimates of crude incidence rates suggested that thyroid cancers were twice as frequent in the Wilayah of Guelma compared to El-Taref (p<0.05) with a tendency to occur at a younger age in resident of the Wilayah of El-Taref. Diagnoses of thyroid adenoma were more frequent in the Wilayah of Guelma, whereas the prevalence of other thyroid lesions, including goitre, was similar in the two Wilayahs. This first descriptive study on geographic variations in thyroid cancer in Northern Africa suggests that significant differences may occur in relation with environmental and lifestyle exposures.
Direct Interband Light Absorption in Conical Quantum Dot
Authors: Hayrapetyan D. B. , Chalyan A. V. , Kazaryan E. M. , Sarkisyan H. A.
Published: November 2015

In the framework of the adiabatic approximation, the energy states of electron as well as the direct light absorption are investigated in conical quantum dot. Analytical expressions for particle energy spectrum are obtained. The dependence of the absorption edge on geometrical parameters of conical quantum dot is obtained. Selection rules are revealed for transitions between levels with different quantum numbers. In particular, it is shown that for the radial quantum number transitions are allowed between the levels with the same quantum numbers, and any transitions between different levels are allowed for the principal quantum number.
Spousal Presence as a Nonpharmacological Pain Management during Childbirth: A Pilot Study
Authors: Emelonye Abigail U. , Pitkäaho Taina , Vehviläinen-Julkunen Katri
Published: November 2015

Background. Measures of spousal effect during parturient pain should take a tripartite approach involving the parturients, spouses, and midwives.Aim. To develop and validate three questionnaires measuring spousal presence in management of parturient pain in Nigeria.Methods. There are two phases: (1) development of questionnaires, Abuja Instrument for Midwives (AIM), Abuja Instrument for Parturient Pain (AIPP), and Abuja Instrument for Parturient Spouses (AIPS), utilizing literatures, Kuopio instrument for fathers (KIF) and expertise of health professionals, and (2) pilot study to validate the questionnaires which were administered in two hospitals in Nigeria: midwives(n=10), parturients(n=10), and spouses(n=10).  Results. Internal consistency for the three questionnaires indicated Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.789 (AIM), 0.802 (AIPP), and 0.860 (AIPS), while test-retest reliability wasr=0.99(AIM),r=0.99(AIPP), andr=0.90(AIPS).Conclusions. AIM, AIPP, and AIPS provide a means of investigating the effectiveness of spousal presence in management of parturient pain in Nigeria. However, further testing of each instrument is needed in a larger population to replicate the beneficial findings of AIMS, AIPP, and AIPS which can contribute rigor to future studies.
Maintaining Connectivity of MANETs through Multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Zhu Ming , Liu Fei , Cai Zhiping , Xu Ming
Published: November 2015

Recently, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have emerged as relay platforms to maintain the connectivity of ground mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs). However, when deploying UAVs, existing methods have not consider one situation that there are already some UAVs deployed in the field. In this paper, we study a problem jointing the motion control of existing UAVs and the deployment of new UAVs so that the number of new deployed UAVs to maintain the connectivity of ground MANETs can be minimized. We firstly formulate the problem as a Minimum Steiner Tree problem with Existing Mobile Steiner points under Edge Length Bound constraints (MST-EMSELB) and prove the NP completeness of this problem. Then we propose three Existing UAVs Aware (EUA) approximate algorithms for the MST-EMSELB problem: Deploy-Before-Movement (DBM), Move-Before-Deployment (MBD), and Deploy-Across-Movement (DAM) algorithms. Both DBM and MBD algorithm decouple the joint problem and solve the deployment and movement problem one after another, while DAM algorithm optimizes the deployment and motion control problem crosswise and solves these two problems simultaneously. Simulation results demonstrate that all EUA algorithms have better performance than non-EUA algorithm. The DAM algorithm has better performance in all scenarios than MBD and DBM ones. Compared with DBM algorithm, the DAM algorithm can reduce at most 70% of the new UAVs number.
Voice Disorder Classification Based on Multitaper Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients Features
Authors: Eskidere Ömer , Gürhanlı Ahmet
Published: November 2015

The Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCCs) are widely used in order to extract essential information from a voice signal and became a popular feature extractor used in audio processing. However, MFCC features are usually calculated from a single window (taper) characterized by large variance. This study shows investigations on reducing variance for the classification of two different voice qualities (normal voice and disordered voice) using multitaper MFCC features. We also compare their performance by newly proposed windowing techniques and conventional single-taper technique. The results demonstrate that adapted weighted Thomson multitaper method could distinguish between normal voice and disordered voice better than the results done by the conventional single-taper (Hamming window) technique and two newly proposed windowing methods. The multitaper MFCC features may be helpful in identifying voices at risk for a real pathology that has to be proven later.
Two Patients with FulminantClostridium difficileEnteritis Who Had Not Undergone Total Colectomy: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Beal Eliza W. , Bass Rosara , Harzman Alan E.
Published: November 2015

Introduction.Clostridium difficileis the most common cause of healthcare associated infectious diarrhea, and its most common clinical manifestation is pseudomembranous colitis. Small bowel enteritis is reported infrequently in the literature and typically occurs only in patients who have undergone ileal pouch anastomosis due to inflammatory bowel disease or total abdominal colectomy for other reasons.Presentation of Cases. We report here two cases in which patients developed small bowelC. difficileenteritis in the absence of these underlying conditions.Discussion. Neither patient had underlying inflammatory bowel disease and both had a significant amount of colon remaining.Conclusion. These two cases demonstrate that small bowelC. difficileenteritis should be included in the differential diagnosis of patients on antibiotic therapy who demonstrate signs and symptoms of worsening abdominal disease during their postoperative course, even if they lack the major predisposing factors of inflammatory bowel disease or history of total colectomy.
Dipterofauna Associated withSus scrofaLinné, 1758, Carcasses in Urban and Coastal Regions of São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Cavallari Maria Luiza , Baltazar Fabio Navarro , Nihei Silvio Shigueo , Muñoz Daniel Romero , Tolezano José Eduardo
Published: November 2015

Cadaverous entomofauna successions vary according to the region, environment, and climate, and such differences may occur within the same country due to seasonal variations. The present study aimed to analyze and compare the dipterofauna that visit or colonize carcasses in the urban and coastal areas of São Paulo, Brazil, during summer and winter seasons. Four swine (Sus scrofaLinné, 1758) carcasses of approximately 12 kg were used. The animals were previously euthanized and then placed in metal cages covered with a flight intercept trap (Shannon, modified). In total, 10,495 flies from 39 families were collected, with 15 species belonging to the Calliphoridae family, 14 species belonging to the Fanniidae family, 43 species belonging to the Muscidae family, and 22 species belonging to the Sarcophagidae family. Flies from these four families visited all carcasses; however, they did not show the highest visitation frequencies in all of the trials. Species variations occurred between the experiments that were performed at different locations and in different seasons. Furthermore, difference in the number of insects attracted to each stage of decomposition was observed. In addition to the four families highlighted above, the families Phoridae, Sepsidae, Otitidae, and Piophilidae were observed in all carcasses.
A Study of Naturally Acquired Canine Babesiosis Caused by Single and MixedBabesiaSpecies in Zambia: Clinicopathological Findings and Case Management
Authors: Nalubamba King Shimumbo , Mudenda Ntombi Basimbi , Namwila Mwaka Mwangala , Mulenga Chilufya Susan , Bwalya Eugene Chisela , M’kandawire Ethel , Saasa Ngonda , Hankanga Careen , Oparaocha Elizabeth , Simuunza Martin
Published: November 2015

A retrospective and prospective analysis of clinical records of dogs diagnosed withBabesiainfections was carried out for the years 2000 to 2013 from practices in Lusaka, Zambia. Records of 363 dogs with confirmedBabesiainfections were analysed using demographic factors including sex, breed, age, and clinical signs in relation to haematological findings andBabesiaspecies. The clinical and laboratory findings observed are described as well asBabesiaspecies identification. The study included 18 breeds and the highest proportion were mongrels (32.2%), males representing 64.5% of the population. The most common presenting problems were anorexia (65.3%) and lethargy/weakness (65.3%). The most common clinical signs were fever (87.3%), pallor (52.3%), lymphadenopathy (47.4%), and presence of ticks (44.9%). Anaemia (96.4%) and nucleated erythrocytes (42.2%) were the most common laboratory findings. A mixed infection ofBabesia rossiandBabesia gibsoniwas present in 59.7% of dogs, whilst 8% and 32.2% hadB. rossiandB. gibsonias a single infection, respectively. Case management mainly involved therapy with tetracyclines and imidocarb and was usually accompanied by clinical improvement. This study highlights, for the first time, the presence ofB. gibsoniin natural dog populations in Zambia, where previously onlyB. rossiwas reported.
A Genomic Study of DNA Alteration Events Caused by Ionizing Radiation in Human Embryonic Stem Cells via Next‐Generation Sequencing
Authors: Nguyen Van , Panyutin Irina V. , Panyutin Igor G. , Neumann Ronald D.
Published: November 2015

Ionizing radiation (IR) is a known mutagen that is widely employed for medical diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. To study the extent of genetic variations in DNA caused by IR, we used IR‐sensitive human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Four hESC cell lines, H1, H7, H9, and H14, were subjected to IR at 0.2 or 1 Gy dose and then maintained in culture for four days before being harvested for DNA isolation. Irradiation with 1 Gy dose resulted in significant cell death, ranging from 60% to 90% reduction in cell population. Since IR is often implicated as a risk for inducing cancer, a primer pool targeting genomic “hotspot” regions that are frequently mutated in human cancer genes was used to generate libraries from irradiated and control samples. Using a semiconductor‐based next‐generation sequencing approach, we were able to consistently sequence these samples with deep coverage for reliable data analysis. A possible rare nucleotide variant was identified in the KIT gene (chr4:55593481) exclusively in H1 hESCs irradiated with 1 Gy dose. More extensive further studies are warranted to assess the extent and distribution of genetic changes in hESCs after IR exposure.
The Impact of an Internet-Based Self-Management Intervention (HeLP-Diabetes) on the Psychological Well-Being of Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Mixed-Method Cohort Study
Authors: Hofmann Megan , Dack Charlotte , Barker Chris , Murray Elizabeth
Published: November 2015

This mixed-method study assessed the impact of an internet-based, self-management intervention (“HeLP-Diabetes”) on the psychological well-being of adults with type 2 diabetes. Nineteen participants were recruited from 3 general practices. Data were collected at baseline and at 6 weeks follow-up. Access to HeLP-Diabetes was associated with a significant decrease in participants’ diabetes-related distress (Z=2.04,p=0.04, andd=0.28). No significant differences were found in emotional distress or self-efficacy. The qualitative data found that participants reported improvements including increased self-efficacy and support, better management of low mood, greater diabetes awareness, and taking the condition more seriously. Participants also reported making improvements to their eating habits, exercise routine, and medical management. Some negative experiences associated with using the intervention were mentioned including feelings of guilt for not using the intervention as suggested or not making any behavioral changes, as well as technical and navigational frustrations with the intervention. Internet-based self-management interventions may have the potential to decrease diabetes-related distress in people with type 2 diabetes. The qualitative data also suggests internet interventions can positively impact both psychological and behavioural outcomes of adults with type 2 diabetes.
Fisetin Modulates Antioxidant Enzymes and Inflammatory Factors to Inhibit Aflatoxin‐B1 Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Rats
Authors: Maurya Brajesh Kumar , Trigun Surendra Kumar
Published: November 2015

Fisetin, a known antioxidant, has been found to be cytotoxic against certain cell lines. However, the mechanism by which it inhibits tumor growth in vivo remains unexplored. Recently, we have demonstrated that Aflatoxin‐B1 (AFB1) induced hepatocarcinogenesis is associated with activation of oxidative stress‐inflammatory pathway in rat liver. The present paper describes the effect of in vivo treatment with 20 mg/kg b.w. Fisetin on antioxidant enzymes vis-a-vis oxidative stress level and on the profile of certain proinflammatory cytokines in the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) induced by two doses of 1 mg/kg b.w. AFB1 i.p. in rats. The reduced levels of most of the antioxidant enzymes, coinciding with the enhanced level of reactive oxygen species in the HCC liver, were observed to regain their normal profiles due to Fisetin treatment. Also, Fisetin treatment could normalize the enhanced expression of TNFα and IL1α, the two proinflammatory cytokines, reported to be involved in HCC pathogenesis. These observations were consistent with the regression of neoplastic lesion and declined GST‐pi (placental type glutathione‐S‐transferase) level, a HCC marker, in the liver of the Fisetin treated HCC rats. The findings suggest that Fisetin attenuates oxidative stress‐inflammatory pathway of AFB1 induced hepatocarcinogenesis.
Renin-Angiotensin System Gene Variants and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Influence of Angiotensinogen
Authors: Joyce-Tan Siew Mei , Zain Shamsul Mohd , Abdul Sattar Munavvar Zubaid , Abdullah Nor Azizan
Published: November 2015

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been successfully used to call for variants associated with diseases including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, some variants are not included in the GWAS to avoid penalty in multiple hypothetic testing. Thus, candidate gene approach is still useful even at GWAS era. This study attempted to assess whether genetic variations in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and their gene interactions are associated with T2DM risk. We genotyped 290 T2DM patients and 267 controls using three genes of the RAS, namely, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensinogen (AGT), and angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AGTR1). There were significant differences in allele frequencies between cases and controls forAGTvariants (P=0.05) but not forACEandAGTR1. Haplotype TCG of theAGTwas associated with increased risk of T2DM (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.15–3.20, permutedP=0.012); however, no evidence of significant gene-gene interactions was seen. Nonetheless, our analysis revealed that the associations of theAGTvariants with T2DM were independently associated. Thus, this study suggests that genetic variants of the RAS can modestly influence the T2DM risk.