bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ON THE NONEXISTENCE of BENT FUNCTIONS
Authors: ZHANG YIN , LIU MEICHENG , LIN DONGDAI
Published: September 2011

In this paper, we study the nonexistence of bent functions in the class of Boolean functions without monomials of degree less than d in their algebraic normal forms (ANF). We prove that n-variable Boolean functions in such class are not bent when there are not more than n + d - 3 monomials in their ANFs. We also show that an n-variable Boolean function is not bent if it has no monomial of degree less than ⌈3n/8 + 3/4⌉ in its ANF.
HETEROGENEITY IN COMPUTING: INSIGHTS FROM A WORKSHARING SCHEDULING PROBLEM
Authors: ROSENBERG ARNOLD L. , CHIANG RON C.
Published: September 2011

Heterogeneity complicates the use of multicomputer platforms. Can it also enhance their performance? How can one measure the power of a heterogeneous assemblage of computers ("cluster"), in absolute terms (how powerful is this cluster) and relative terms (which cluster is more powerful)? Is a cluster that has one super-fast computer and the rest of "average" speed more/less powerful than one all of whose computers are "moderately" fast? If you can replace just one computer in a cluster with a faster one, should you replace the fastest? the slowest? A result concerning "worksharing" in heterogeneous clusters provides a highly idealized, yet algorithmically meaningful, framework for studying such questions in a way that admits rigorous analysis and formal proof. We encounter some surprises as we answer the preceding questions (perforce, within the idealized framework). Highlights: (1) If one can replace only one computer in a cluster by a faster one, it is (almost) always most advantageous to replace the fastest one. (2) If the computers in two clusters have the same mean speed, then the cluster with the larger variance in speed is (almost) always more productive (verified analytically for small clusters and empirically for large ones.) (3) Heterogeneity can actually enhance a cluster's computing power.
CHAOS ROBUSTNESS AND STRENGTH IN THERMOMECHANICAL SHAPE MEMORY OSCILLATORS PART II: NUMERICAL AND THEORETICAL EVALUATION
Authors: BERNARDINI DAVIDE , REGA GIUSEPPE
Published: September 2011

In this two-part paper the problem of evaluating robustness and strength of chaos in thermomechanically-based Shape Memory Oscillators (SMOs) is addressed. In Part I, several tools for the theoretical prediction of the main features of the pseudoelastic loops of Shape Memory Devices (SMDs) have been proposed. In this Part II, the Method of Wandering Trajectories (MWT), that has already been validated as a systematic, yet affordable, numerical tool for the evaluation of the chaotic response of SMOs, is enhanced by complementing it with a quantitative indicator of chaoticity: the maximum value of the displacement normalized separation over a fixed time interval. The method is used to compute numerical 3D behavior charts for several model parameters sets, properly selected in order to highlight the influence of various model parameters on the nonlinear dynamical response of SMOs. From the numerical analyses it turns out that two main aspects of the SMD behavior do influence the robustness and strength of chaos, namely the hardening of the pseudoelastic plateaus and the area of the hysteresis loop, both of them being meaningfully affected by the model mechanical and thermal parameters. The numerical results are also interpreted by means of the theoretical indicators discussed in Part I, which provide a reliable framework for the prediction of the main features of dynamic response before actual computation of the trajectories.
PARAMETRICALLY EXCITED PENDULUM SYSTEMS WITH SEVERAL EQUILIBRIUM POSITIONS: BIFURCATION ANALYSIS AND RARE ATTRACTORS
Authors: KLOKOV ALEX V. , ZAKRZHEVSKY MIKHAIL V.
Published: September 2011

An application of the new method of complete bifurcation groups (MCBG) in parametrically excited pendulum systems with several equilibrium positions and with the periodically vibrating point of suspension in both directions is introduced. Construction of complete bifurcation groups is based on the method of stable and unstable periodic regimes continuation on a parameter. Global bifurcation analysis of the parametrically excited pendulum systems with several equilibrium positions allows finding new bifurcation groups with rare attractors and chaotic regimes.
DAMPED VIBRATIONS PROBLEM OF BEAMS FIXED ON THE ROTATIONAL DISK
Authors: ŻÓŁKIEWSKI SŁAWOMIR
Published: September 2011

The problem considered in this paper is one of damped vibrations of the beam in transportation. The dynamical analysis of systems in motion is a very well-known issue, but many detailed cases have not been published yet. The considered case is applied with the double-sided fixed beams placed on a rotational disk. The disk treated as a rigid one is rotated with a constant angular velocity in the stationary reference frame. An application of vibrations of the beam is transformed from a local to global reference frame, damping forces and forces arising from the rotational motion of a local reference center are also taken into consideration. The beam is assumed as a homogenous one with symmetric cross-sections. This work is the dynamical analysis of such a type of vibrations, which is a mathematical one based on considering transient response and dynamical flexibility of this type of systems.
COMPLEX ORDER BIPED RHYTHMS
Authors: PINTO CARLA M. A. , MACHADO J. A. TENREIRO
Published: September 2011

Animal locomotion is a complex process, involving the central pattern generators (neural networks, located in the spinal cord, that produce rhythmic patterns), the brainstem command systems, the steering and posture control systems and the top layer structures that decide which motor primitive is activated at a given time. Pinto and Golubitsky studied an integer CPG model for legs rhythms in bipeds. It is a four-coupled identical oscillators' network with dihedral symmetry. This paper considers a new complex order central pattern generator (CPG) model for locomotion in bipeds. A complex derivative Dα±jβ, with α, β ∈ ℜ+, [Formula: see text], is a generalization of the concept of an integer derivative, where α = 1, β = 0. Parameter regions where periodic solutions, identified with legs' rhythms in bipeds, occur, are analyzed. Also observed is the variation of the amplitude and period of periodic solutions with the complex order derivative.
HOW DO AUSTRALIAN FAST-GROWTH SMALL-TO-MEDIUM ENTERPRISES MEASURE PERFORMANCE?
Authors: TAN CAROLINE SWEE LIN , SMYRNIOS KOSMAS X.
Published: September 2011

Utilizing a case study methodology, this study investigates ways in which fast growth small-to-medium enterprises (FGSMEs) measure firm performance. This investigation, involving 21 interviews with 18 companies, revealed that FGSMEs seem to adopt a multi-level approach involving different sources and contexts to performance measurement. Apart from the application of standard financial performance measures such as profits and growth, FGSMEs also utilize measures of customer satisfaction, attainment of industry awards, receipt of client reports, website popularity, number and quality of successful innovations adopted, objective employee performance indices, and staff retention. Founders highlight the importance of providing employees with flexible environments and career opportunities as a way to reduce churn. These organizational characteristics signal non-financial benefits and incentives of working in these firms to potential employees and customers. These findings are in accord with extant literature and the balanced scorecard perspective, advocating associations between performance measurement systems and management strategies.
ON THE PROOF COMPLEXITY OF THE NISAN–WIGDERSON GENERATOR BASED ON A HARD NP ∩ coNP FUNCTION
Authors: KRAJÍČEK JAN
Published: September 2011

Let g be a map defined as the Nisan–Wigderson generator but based on an NP ∩ coNP -function f. Any string b outside the range of g determines a propositional tautology τ(g)b expressing this fact. Razborov [27] has conjectured that if f is hard on average for P/poly then these tautologies have no polynomial size proofs in the Extended Frege system EF.

We consider a more general Statement (S) that the tautologies have no polynomial size proofs in any propositional proof system. This is equivalent to the statement that the complement of the range of g contains no infinite NP set.

We prove that Statement (S) is consistent with Cook' s theory PV and, in fact, with the true universal theory T PV in the language of PV. If PV in this consistency statement could be extended to "a bit" stronger theory (properly included in Buss's theory [Formula: see text]) then Razborov's conjecture would follow, and if TPV could be added too then Statement (S) would follow.

We discuss this problem in some detail, pointing out a certain form of reflection principle for propositional logic, and we introduce a related feasible disjunction property of proof systems.
CHAIN MODELS, TREES OF SINGULAR CARDINALITY AND DYNAMIC EF-GAMES
Authors: DŽAMONJA MIRNA , VÄÄNÄNEN JOUKO
Published: September 2011

Let κ be a singular cardinal. Karp's notion of a chain model of size κ is defined to be an ordinary model of size κ along with a decomposition of it into an increasing union of length cf (κ). With a notion of satisfaction and (chain)-isomorphism such models give an infinitary logic largely mimicking first order logic. In this paper we associate to this logic a notion of a dynamic EF-game which gauges when two chain models are chain-isomorphic. To this game is associated a tree which is a tree of size κ with no κ-branches (even no cf (κ)-branches). The measure of how non-isomorphic the models are is reflected by a certain order on these trees, called reduction. We study the collection of trees of size κ with no κ-branches under this notion and prove that when cf (κ) = ω this collection is rather regular; in particular it has universality number exactly κ+. Such trees are then used to develop a descriptive set theory of the space cf (κ)κ.

The main result of the paper gives in the case of κ strong limit singular an exact connection between the descriptive set-theoretic complexity of the chain isomorphism orbit of a model, the reduction order on the trees and winning strategies in the corresponding dynamic EF games. In particular we obtain a neat analog of the notion of Scott watershed from the Scott analysis of countable models.
Stability of the Shallow Axisymmetric Parabolic‐Conic Bimetallic Shell by Nonlinear Theory
Authors: Jakomin M. , Kosel F.
Published: September 2011

In this contribution, we discuss the stress, deformation, and snap‐through conditions of thin, axi‐symmetric, shallow bimetallic shells of so‐called parabolic‐conic and plate‐parabolic type shells loaded by thermal loading. According to the theory of the third order that takes into account the balance of forces on a deformed body, we present a model with a mathematical description of the system geometry, displacements, stress, and thermoelastic deformations. The equations are based on the large displacements theory. We numerically calculate the deformation curve and the snap‐through temperature using the fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta method and a nonlinear shooting method. We show how the temperature of both snap‐through depends on the point where one type of the rotational curve transforms into another.
Evaluation of the Possible Mechanisms of Antihypertensive Activity ofLoranthus micranthus: An African Mistletoe
Authors: Iwalokun Bamidele A. , Hodonu Sedoten A. , Nwoke Stella , Ojo Olabisi , Agomo Phillip U.
Published: September 2011

Loranthus micranthus (LM), also called African mistletoe is a major NigerianLoranthaceaeplant used traditionally to treat hypertension. The methanolic leaf extract of the plant (LMME) has been shown to elicit anti-hypertensive activity in rats but mechanism remains unclear. This study was undertaken to study the effect of LM on pressor-induced contraction of rat aorta smooth muscles and serum lipid profiles in mice. The LMME was partitioned to produce n-butanol (NBF-LMME), chloroform (CF-LMME), ethyl acetate (EAF-LMME) and water (WF-LMME) fractions. The median effective concentrations and maximum relaxation of the fractions were determined against epinephrine and KCl pre-contracted rat aorta ring model. Serum lipid profiles and nitric oxide (NO) were determined spectrophotometrically in mice administered per orally 250 mg/kg b.w. of each fraction for 21 days. Data were analyzed statistically. NBF-LMME elicited the highest dose-dependent inhibitory effect on rat aorta pre-contracted with norepinephrine and KCl, followed in decreasing order by WF-LMME > CF-LMME > EAF-LMME. Similar order of activity was observed in the ability of these fractions to inhibit elevation in artherogenic lipids, raise serum nitric oxide and reduce cardiac arginase in mice. We conclude the anti-hypertensive activity ofL. micranthusinvolve anti-artherogenic events, vasorelaxation, cardiac arginase reduction and NO elevation.
Refinement Methods for State Estimation via Sylvester-Observer Equation
Authors: Najafi H. Saberi , Refahi Sheikhani A. H.
Published: September 2011

We present new iterative methods based on refinement process for solving large sparse Sylvester-observer
equations applied in state estimation of a continuous-time system. These methods use projection methods to produce low-dimensional Sylvester-observer matrix equations that are solved by the direct methods. Moreover, the refinement process
described in this paper has the capability of improving the results obtained by any other methods. Some numerical results
will be reported to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed methods.
Biosynthesis of Nanoparticles by Microorganisms and Their Applications
Authors: Li Xiangqian , Xu Huizhong , Chen Zhe-Sheng , Chen Guofang
Published: September 2011

The development of eco-friendly technologies in material synthesis is of considerable importance to expand their biological applications. Nowadays, a variety of inorganic nanoparticles with well-defined chemical composition, size, and morphology have been synthesized by using different microorganisms, and their applications in many cutting-edge technological areas have been explored. This paper highlights the recent developments of the biosynthesis of inorganic nanoparticles including metallic nanoparticles, oxide nanoparticles, sulfide nanoparticles, and other typical nanoparticles. Different formation mechanisms of these nanoparticles will be discussed as well. The conditions to control the size/shape and stability of particles are summarized. The applications of these biosynthesized nanoparticles in a wide spectrum of potential areas are presented including targeted drug delivery, cancer treatment, gene therapy and DNA analysis, antibacterial agents, biosensors, enhancing reaction rates, separation science, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The current limitations and future prospects for the synthesis of inorganic nanoparticles by microorganisms are discussed.
Coinfection byAspergillusand Zygomycetes Species in a Case of Acute Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Vaidya Dhara , Shah Parul
Published: September 2011

Invasive mycotic infections can be effectively treated if rapid identification of fungus is obtained. We reported a case of coinfection byAspergillusandRhizopussp. involving nose, paranasal sinuses, orbit, and brain in a 68-year-old known hypertensive male. He was presented to ENT OPD with history of fever and intermittent headache since fifteen days along with history of right-sided nasal obstruction and proptosis since seven days. CT scan of brain and paranasal sinuses showed findings of pansinusitis with cellulitic changes in right orbit. MRI confirmed the same along with features of intracranial extension with focal meningitis in right frontotemporal region. Laboratory parameters did not conclude much except for leucocytosis and hyponatremia. Patient was taken for endoscopic debridement from nose and paranasal sinuses, and tissue was sent for microbiological and histopathological examination. Minced tissue was processed, and after 48 hrs of incubation two types of growth were identified, one was yellowish, granular, and powdery consistent withAspergillussp., and another was cottony and woolly consistent withRhizopussp. LCB mount confirmed presence ofAspergillus flavusandRhizopus arrhizus. Patient responded to therapy with IV amphotericin B and surgical debridement. On discharge patient's condition was good.
Finite Element Analysis of Turbulent Flows Using LES and Dynamic Subgrid‐Scale Models in Complex Geometries
Authors: Wenquan Wang , Lixiang Zhang , Yan Yan , Yakun Guo
Published: September 2011

An innovative computational model is presented for the large eddy simulation (LES) of multidimensional unsteady turbulent flow problems in complex geometries. The main objectives of this research are to know more about the structure of turbulent flows, to identify their three‐dimensional characteristic, and to study physical effects due to complex fluid flow. The filtered Navier‐Stokes equations are used to simulate large scales; however, they are supplemented by dynamic subgrid‐scale (DSGS) models to simulate the energy transfer from large scales toward subgrid‐scales, where this energy will be dissipated by molecular viscosity. Based on the Taylor‐Galerkin schemes for the convection‐diffusion problems, this model is implemented in a three‐dimensional finite element code using a three‐step finite element method (FEM). Turbulent channel flow and flow over a backward‐facing step are considered as a benchmark for validating the methodology by comparing with the direct numerical simulation (DNS) results or experimental data. Also, qualitative and quantitative aspects of three‐dimensional complex turbulent flow in a strong 3D blade passage of a Francis turbine are analyzed.
Schizophyllum Communea Causative Agent of Fungal Sinusitis: A Case Report
Authors: Premamalini T. , Ambujavalli B. T. , Anitha S. , Somu L. , Kindo Anupma J.
Published: September 2011

We present a case of maxillary sinusitis caused bySchizophyllum commune, in a 50-year-old female. The patient presented with nasal obstruction, purulent nasal discharge from right side of the nose, cough, headache, and sneezing. Computed tomography revealed extensive opacity of the right maxillary sinus as well as erosion of the nasal wall and maxillary bone. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery was done, and fungal debris present on right side of the maxillary sinus was removed and sent to laboratory. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) examination of the nasal discharge showed hyaline, septate hyphae. Primary isolation on Sabouraud's dextrose agar (SDA) yielded a white woolly mould. Banana peel culture after 8 weeks showed macroscopically visible fan-shaped fruiting bodies. Lactophenol cotton blue (LPCB) mount of the same revealed hyaline septate hyphae, often with clamp connections. Identification was confirmed by the presence of clamp connections formed on the hyphae and by vegetative compatibility with known isolates.
Mechanisms and Implications of Age-Related Changes in the Liver: Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in the Elderly
Authors: Gan Lay , Chitturi Shivakumar , Farrell Geoffrey C.
Published: September 2011

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is hepatic steatosis associated with metabolic abnormalities such as overweight/central obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and dyslipidemia. NAFLD is becoming the most common liver disease in contemporary society, with the highest prevalence in those over 60 years. NAFLD pathology ranges from simple steatosis to a necroinflammatory fibrosing disorder called steatohepatitis (SH), the latter associated with high risk of developing cirrhosis, often occuring in the seventh to ninth decades of life. While the main health implications of NAFLD are increased risk of developing T2D, cardiovascular diseases, and common cancers, there is substantantially increased standardized mortality, and deaths from decompensated cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Little is known about the interactive effects of ageing and NAFLD, with most studies focusing on the younger population. This paper summarises the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical course of NAFLD, with particular attention to persons over age 60 years. An approach to the management of NASH and its complications in the elderly, will also be presented here.
Theoretical and Experimental Results of Substrate Effects on Microstrip Power Divider Designs
Authors: Mansoor Mahmood Suhair , Jassim Al-Hindawi Asaad M.
Published: September 2011

The effects of substrate materials on the design of microstrip power divider are investigated theoretically and experimentally. Three dielectric substrate materials, Duroid 3003, G10/FR4 epoxy Glass, and Duroid 3010, are chosen to be studied. A three-way two-stage power divider is designed at S-band frequency of 2.25 GHz and etched on each studied substrate separately. The substrate effects on the characteristics and performance of the microsrip circuits are studied taking into consideration the large difference in dielectric constant and the dissipation factor. The circuit designs presented here are analyzed using the Genesys CAD program and implemented and tested experimentally. The simulated and measured results are compared and discussed, and they indicate that significant changes in the characteristics of the microstrip power divider are observed.
Development of Polymeric Cargo for Delivery of Photosensitizer in Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Bae Byoung-chan , Na Kun
Published: September 2011

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), which employs photosensitizers (PSs), a light source with appropriate wavelength, and oxygen molecules, has potential for the treatment of various tumors and nononcological diseases due to its high efficiency in directly producing cellular death, vascular shutdown, and immune activation. After the clinical success of Photofrin (porphyrin derivative), many PSs were developed with improved optical and chemical properties. However, some weak points such as low solubility and nonspecific phototoxicity induced by hydrophobic PSs still remain. In order to overcome these problems, various polymeric carriers for PS delivery have been intensively developed. Here, we report recent approaches to the development of polymeric carriers for PS delivery and discuss the physiological advantages of using polymeric carriers in PDT. Therefore, this paper provides helpful information for the design of new PSs without the weaknesses of conventional ones.
An Overlapping Syndrome of Allergy and Immune Deficiency in Children
Authors: Szczawinska-Poplonyk Aleksandra
Published: September 2011

Recurrent airway inflammations in children are an important clinical problem in pediatric practice. An essential challenge is differentiation between allergic background and immune deficiency, which is a difficult task taking into consideration individual predisposition to atopy, immune system maturation in the early childhood, as well as exposition to environmental allergens and microbial antigens. In this paper relationship between selected elements of innate and adaptive immunity, such as pattern-recognition receptors, complement components, dendritic cells, as well as immunoglobulins, and regulatory T lymph cells has been discussed. Particular attention has been paid to these mechanisms of the immune response which, depending on settings and timing of activation, predispose to allergy or contribute to tolerogenic phenotype. In the context of multifactorial conditioning of the innate and adaptive immunity governing the ultimate response and associations between allergy and immune deficiencies, these phenomena should be considered as pathogenetically not precluding, but as an overlapping syndrome.
The Role of Bile Acid Excretion in Atherosclerotic Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Charach Gideon , Rabinovich Alexander , Argov Ori , Weintraub Moshe , Rabinovich Pavel
Published: September 2011

The impact of cholesterol and different classes of lipoproteins on the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) has been investigated in extensively during the past 50 years. The cholesterol metabolism is dependent on numerous factors, including dietary fat, fractional absorption of dietary cholesterol, tissue stores of cholesterol, endogenous cholesterol synthesis, and fecal bile excretion. Several studies showed significantly lower amounts of bile acid secretion in adult patients with CAD compared to non-CAD patients. Could it be that the inability to efficiently excrete bile acids may lead to CAD development?
Fournier Gangrene: Our Approach and Patients
Authors: Fajdic Josip , Gotovac Nikola , Hrgovic Zlatko
Published: September 2011

Aim: This retrospective analysis presents our experience in treating Fournier gangrene (FG) and aims to bring in focus diagnostic and therapeutic problems as well as early and aggressive treatment. Patients and Methods: A total of 16 male patients were included in the study. The gastrointestinal form was seen in 5 and the urogenital form in 11 patients. The subjects ranged in age from 39 to 74 years (average 61) for the urogenital, and from 48 to 72 (average 58) for the gastrointestinal form. Other conditions were seen in 9 patients (diabetes mellitus was most common). Most patients were infected with several bacteria. We performed colostomy in 1 patient, orchidectomy in 2 patients, cystostomy in 2 patients and penis amputation in 1 patient. Ultrasound-guided biopsy or aspiration, and CT was also used. Aggressive surgical necrectomy and aggressive antimicrobial therapy was used. Results: Treatment was successful in 14 of 16 patients (87.5%). The length of hospitalization was 19–58 days (average 48) for the urogenital form and 24–56 days (average 41) for the gastrointestinal form. Mortality was 12.5%. A lethal outcome was recorded in two patients infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The average time between onset and hospitalization was 3–11 days (5 on average) for urogenital FG and 4–10 days (average 6) for gastrointestinal FG. Treatment was significantly longer in patients with a comorbidity, such as diabetes or liver cirrhosis due to alcohol abuse. Conclusion: Early diagnosis as well as intensive and aggressive treatment are key to successful treatment of FG. Comorbidity increases length of therapy and lowers the chance for recovery. Disease can be seen again several years after the initial outburst.
Does an Inflammatory Pattern at Primary Biopsy Suggest a Lower Risk for Prostate Cancer at Repeated Saturation Prostate Biopsy
Authors: Pepe Pietro , Aragona Francesco
Published: September 2011

Introduction: To evaluate if an inflammatory pattern at primary biopsy is associated with a lower risk for cancer in men submitted to repeated saturation prostate biopsy (SPBx). Methods: From January 2005 to January 2010, 320 patients, after a negative primary extended biopsy (median 18 cores), underwent SPBx by transperineal approach performing 27 cores (median). 210 (65.6%) patients had a normal parenchyma and 110 had an inflammatory pattern (34.4%) at primary biopsy (none of them complained of symptoms suggesting a diagnosis of acute prostatitis at the time of biopsy). Moreover, median prostate-specific antigen and abnormal digital rectal examination was equal to 7.3 ng/ml and 3.6% versus 8.2 ng/ml and 3.8%, respectively. Results: Prostate cancer (PCa) was found in 66 (20.5%) of 320 patients. Of these, 42 (63.6%) and 24 (36.4%; p = 0.007) had a histological diagnosis of chronic prostatitis and normal parenchyma at primary biopsy, respectively. Conclusions: An inflammatory pattern at primary biopsy is not associated with a decrease in PCa incidence at repeated SPBx; therefore, only an accurate clinical evaluation including more parameters (i.e. urinary PCA3) could hopefully select men who need to undergo rebiopsy in the presence of persistent suspicion of cancer.
Diagnostic Value of the Nuclear Matrix Protein 22 Test and Urine Cytology in Upper Tract Urothelial Tumors
Authors: Jovanovic M. , Soldatovic I. , Janjic A. , Vuksanovic A. , Dzamic Z. , Acimovic M. , Hadzi-Djokic J.
Published: September 2011

Objective: To investigate the diagnostic value of the nuclear matrix protein 22 (NMP22) test in comparison to urine cytology for the detection of upper tract urothelial carcinoma. Patients and Methods: Patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the upper urinary tract (n = 34) and patients with renal calculosis (n = 25) were included in this study. Voided urine samples and separated catheter urine specimens were assayed for NMP22 and cytological examination. Results: The sensitivity of the NMP22 test in separated and voided urine was 73.2 and 70.5%, respectively, compared to 64.7 and 58.8% of urine cytology. The specificity of the NMP22 test in separated and voided urine was 88 and 92%, respectively, compared to 96 and 96% of urine cytology. The combination of separated and voided urine is the best method because the sensitivity is 79.41% and specificity 88%. There is a high agreement of the NMP22 test in voided and separated urine (kappa = 0.795, p < 0.01), indicating that the voided urine is adequate for diagnosis. Conclusions: The NMP22 test has higher sensitivity but lower specificity than cytology. The combination of these two tests could be a very useful diagnostic method for detection of upper urothelial tumors.
Comparative Chromosome Maps of Neotropical Rodents Necromys lasiurus and Thaptomys nigrita (Cricetidae) Established by ZOO-FISH
Authors: Hass I. , Müller S. , Artoni R.F. , Sbalqueiro I.J.
Published: September 2011

This work presents chromosome homology maps between Mus musculus (MMU) and 2 South American rodent species from the Cricetidae group: Necromys lasiurus (NLA, 2n = 34) and Thaptomys nigrita (TNI, 2n = 52), established by ZOO-FISH using mouse chromosome-specific painting probes. Extending previous molecular cytogenetic studies in Neotropical rodents, the purpose of this work was to delineate evolutionary chromosomal rearrangements in Cricetidae rodents and to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships among the Akodontini species. Our phylogenetic reconstruction by maximum parsimony analysis of chromosomal characters confirmed one consistent clade of all Neotropical rodents studied so far. In both species analyzed here, we observed the syntenic association of chromosome segments homologous to MMU 8/13, suggesting that this chromosome form is a synapomorphic trait exclusive to Neotropical rodents. Further, the previously described Akodontini-specific syntenic associations MMU 3/18 and MMU 6/12 were observed in N.lasiurus but not in T. nigrita, although the latter species is considered a member of the Akodontini tribe by some authors. Finally, and in agreement with this finding, N.lasiurus and Akodon serrensis share the derived fission of MMU 13, which places them as basal sister clades within Akodontini.
Innate Immune Control of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium: Mechanisms Contributing to Combating Systemic Salmonella Infection
Authors: Wick Mary Jo
Published: September 2011

Infections with Salmonella enterica serovars remain a serious problem worldwide. While serovar Typhi causes significant morbidity and mortality that is restricted to humans, serovar Typhimurium causes gastroenteritidis in humans and can also infect other animals. As mice with the susceptible Nramp1 locus get systemic infection with serovar Typhimurium, murine infection models using this serovar have been widely used to decipher the immune mechanisms required to survive systemic Salmonella infection. This review summarizes recent studies in murine infection models that have advanced our understanding of the events that occur during the first days after oral Salmonella infection. The pathways of bacterial penetration across the intestinal epithelium, bacterial spread to draining (mesenteric) lymph nodes and dissemination to systemic tissues is discussed. The response of myeloid cell populations, including dendritic cells, inflammatory monocytes and neutrophils, during the early stage of infection is also discussed. Finally, the mechanisms driving recruitment of myeloid cells to infected intestinal lymphoid tissues and what is known about Toll-like receptor signaling pathways in innate immunity to Salmonella infection is also discussed.
Early Postoperative Outcomes and Blood Product Utilization in Adult Cardiac Surgery
Authors: DeSantis Stacia M. , Toole J. Matthew , Kratz John M. , Uber Walter E. , Wheat Margaret J. , Stroud Martha R. , Ikonomidis John S. , Spinale Francis G.
Published: September 2011

Background—

Aprotinin was a commonly used pharmacological agent for homeostasis in cardiac surgery but was discontinued, resulting in the extensive use of lysine analogues. This study tested the hypothesis that early postoperative adverse events and blood product utilization would affected in this post-aprotinin era.

Methods and Results—

Adult patients (n=781) undergoing coronary artery bypass, valve replacement, or both from November 1, 2005, to October 31, 2008, at a single institution were included. Multiple logistic regression modeling and propensity scoring were performed on 29 preoperative and intraoperative variables in patients receiving aprotinin (n=325) or lysine analogues (n=456). The propensity-adjusted relative risk (RR) for the intraoperative use of packed red blood cells (RR, 0.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57 to 0.99), fresh frozen plasma (RR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.21 to 0.64), and cryoprecipitate (RR:0.06; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.22) were lower in the aprotinin versus lysine analog group (all
P
<0.05). The risk for mortality (RR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.16 to 1.79) and neurological events (RR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.35 to 2.18) remained similar between groups, whereas a trend for reduced risk for renal dysfunction was observed in the aprotinin group.

Conclusions—

In the post-aprotinin era, with the exclusive use of lysine analogues, the relative risk of early postoperative outcomes such as mortality and renal dysfunction have not improved, but the risk for the intraoperative use of blood products has increased. Thus, improvements in early postoperative outcomes have not been realized with the discontinued use of aprotinin, but rather increased blood product use has occurred with the attendant costs and risks inherent with this strategy.
Percutaneous Versus Surgical Revascularization in Patients With Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Kang Duk-Hyun , Sun Byung Joo , Kim Dae-Hee , Yun Sung-Cheol , Song Jong-Min , Choo Suk Jung , Chung Cheol Hyun , Song Jae-Kwan , Lee Jae-Won , Park Seong-Wook , Park Seung-Jung
Published: September 2011

Background—

The proper way of revascularization remains controversial in patients with ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR). We sought to compare the long-term results of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and surgical revascularization in IMR.

Methods and Results—

From 1996 to 2008, 185 consecutive patients (132 men; age, 63±9 years) with significant IMR underwent PCI (PCI group) (n=66) or coronary artery bypass graft surgery (OP group) (n=119). In the OP group, 68 (57%) patients also underwent concomitant mitral annuloplasty. Significant IMR was defined as functional MR occurring >1 week after myocardial infarction with an effective regurgitant orifice area ≥0.2 cm
2
. During a median follow-up of 54 months, there were 2 operative mortalities, 26 cardiac deaths, and 11 heart failure hospitalizations in the OP group and 22 cardiac deaths and 10 heart failure hospitalizations in the PCI group. The survival and cardiac mortality rates were not significantly different between the 2 groups, but event-free survival rates were significantly higher in the OP group. For the 45 propensity score-matched pairs, the risk of cardiac events was significantly lower in the OP group than in the PCI group (hazard ratio, 0.499; 95% CI, 0.251 to 0.990;
P
=0.043). Compared with patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery alone, event-free survival rates were significantly higher in those who underwent additional mitral annuloplasty.

Conclusions—

Compared with PCI, surgical revascularization is associated with an improved long-term event-free survival, and concomitant mitral annuloplasty should be considered in patients with significant IMR.
Biventricular Circulatory Support With Two Miniaturized Implantable Assist Devices
Authors: Krabatsch Thomas , Potapov Evgenij , Stepanenko Alexander , Schweiger Martin , Kukucka Marian , Huebler Michael , Hennig Ewald , Hetzer Roland
Published: September 2011

Background—

Up to 30% of patients with end-stage heart failure experience biventricular failure that requires biventricular mechanical support. For these patients, only bulky extracorporeal or implantable displacement pumps or the total artificial heart have been available to date, which enables only limited quality of life for the patients. It was our goal to evaluate a method that would allow the use of 2 implantable centrifugal left ventricular assist devices as a biventricular assist system.

Methods and Results—

Seventeen patients have been implanted with 2 HeartWare HVAD pumps, 1 as a left ventricular assist device and 1 as a right ventricular assist device. Seventy-seven percent of the patients had idiopathic dilated or ischemic cardiomyopathy. Their age ranged from 29 to 73 years (mean 51.8±14.5 years), and 11 (64.7%) received intravenous catecholamine support preoperatively. The right ventricular assist device pump was implanted into the right ventricular free wall. The afterload of this pump was artificially increased by local reduction of the outflow graft diameter, and the effective length of its inflow cannula was reduced by the addition of two 5-mm silicon suture rings to the original HVAD implantation ring. All right ventricular assist device devices could be operated in appropriate speed ranges and delivered a flow of between 3.0 and 5.5 L/min. Thirty-day survival was 82%, and 59% of the patients could be discharged home after recovering from the operation. There was no clinically relevant hemolysis in any of the patients.

Conclusions—

Two HeartWare HVAD pumps can be used as a biventricular assist system. This implantable biventricular support gives the patients more comfort and mobility than usual biventricular ventricular assist devices with large and noisy displacement pumps.
Sustained Reduction of Vein Graft Neointima Formation by Ex Vivo TIMP-3 Gene Therapy
Authors: George Sarah J. , Wan Song , Hu Jia , MacDonald Robert , Johnson Jason L. , Baker Andrew H.
Published: September 2011

Background—

Coronary artery vein graft failure, resulting from thrombosis, intimal thickening, and atherosclerosis, is a significant clinical problem, with approximately 50% of vein grafts failing within 10 years. Intimal thickening is caused by migration of vascular smooth muscle cells from the media to the intima, where they proliferate. Interventions using gene transfer to inhibit vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation and migration are attractive because ex vivo access to the graft is possible. The involvement of matrix-degrading metalloproteinases in intimal thickening is well established, and we previously showed that adenoviral-delivered overexpression of an endogenous inhibitor, the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 (TIMP-3), significantly retarded intimal thickening in short-term autologous porcine arteriovenous interposition grafts (28 days). However, it is essential to determine whether this approach will provide longer-term benefits.

Methods and Results—

We assessed whether a recombinant adenovirus that overexpresses TIMP-3 (RAdTIMP-3) affects vein graft intimal thickening in the longer term (at 3 months). Porcine saphenous veins were subjected to luminal infection with 2.5×10
10
pfu/mL RAdTIMP-3 or RAd60 (control virus) or vehicle control, for 30 minutes before implantation into the carotid artery. Analysis of grafts harvested 3 months after delivery revealed that RAdTIMP-3–infected grafts had significantly reduced intimal areas compared with both controls (3.2±0.4 mm
2
versus 5.6±0.7 mm
2
and 5.9±0.5 mm
2
, RAdTIMP-3, RAd60, and vehicle, respectively). Medial areas were also significantly decreased by TIMP-3 (3.8±0.3 mm
2
versus 6.7±1.0 mm
2
and 5.2±0.4 mm
2
, RAdTIMP-3, RAd60, and vehicle, respectively).

Conclusions—

Overexpression of TIMP-3 provides a sustained retardation of vein graft intimal thickening and highlights the translational potential for ex vivo TIMP-3 gene therapy.
Human Leukocyte Antigen I Knockdown Human Embryonic Stem Cells Induce Host Ignorance and Achieve Prolonged Xenogeneic Survival
Authors: Deuse Tobias , Seifert Martina , Phillips Neil , Fire Andrew , Tyan Dolly , Kay Mark , Tsao Philip S. , Hua Xiaoqin , Velden Joachim , Eiermann Thomas , Volk Hans-Dieter , Reichenspurner Hermann , Robbins Robert C. , Schrepfer Sonja
Published: September 2011

Background—

Although human embryonic stem cells (hESC) have enormous potential for cell replacement therapy of heart failure, immune rejection of hESC derivatives inevitably would occur after transplantation. We therefore aimed to generate a hypoantigeneic hESC line with improved survival characteristics.

Methods and Results—

Using various in vivo, nonischemic, hindlimb xenotransplant models (immunocompetent and defined immunodefective mouse strains) as well as human in vitro T-cell and natural killer (NK)-cell assays, we revealed a central role for T cells in mediating hESC rejection. The NK-cell susceptibility of hESC in vivo was found to be low, and the NK response to hESC challenge in vitro was negligible. To reduce the antigenicity of hESC, we successfully generated human leukocyte antigen (HLA) I knockdown cells (hESC
siRNA+IB
) using both HLA I RNA interference (siRNA) and intrabody (IB) technology. HLA I expression was ≈99% reduced after 7 days and remained low for weeks. Cellular immune recognition of these hESC
siRNA+IB
was strongly reduced in both xenogeneic and allogeneic settings. Immune rejection was profoundly mitigated after hESC
siRNA+IB
transplantation into immunocompetent mice, and even long-term graft survival was achieved in one third of the animals without any immunosuppression. The survival benefit of hESC
siRNA+IB
was further confirmed under ischemic conditions in a left anterior descending coronary artery ligation model.

Conclusions—

HLA I knockdown hESC
siRNA+IB
provoke T-cell ignorance and experience largely mitigated xenogeneic rejection. By generating hypoantigeneic hESC lines, the generation of acceptable hESC derivatives may become a practical concept and push cell replacement strategies forward.
Detection of Intimal Defect by 64-Row Multidetector Computed Tomography in Patients With Acute Aortic Intramural Hematoma
Authors: Kitai Takeshi , Kaji Shuichiro , Yamamuro Atsushi , Tani Tomoko , Kinoshita Makoto , Ehara Natsuhiko , Kobori Atsushi , Kim Kitae , Kita Toru , Furukawa Yutaka
Published: September 2011

Background—

Previous pathological and clinical studies demonstrated an intimal defect in patients with acute aortic intramural hematoma (IMH). The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and clinical outcome of intimal defect detected by multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in patients with IMH.

Methods and Results—

We retrospectively analyzed 38 consecutive patients with IMH in whom 64-row MDCT was performed during the acute phase (median, 5 days from the onset). Intimal defect was defined as continuity disruption of the inner layer of thrombosed false lumen, which could be detected by 1-mm axial and longitudinal interactive multiplanar reformation images. Clinical outcome of intimal defect was assessed in patients with type B IMH (n=32). A total of 48 lesions in 27 (71%) patients were recognized as intimal defects. The incidence of intimal defect was not affected by the timing of MDCT examination (1 to 3 days, 79%; 4 to 7 days, 58%; 8 to 14 days, 75%;
P
=0.56). In type B IMH, 16 (76%) of 21 patients with intimal defect showed progression (enlargement or progression to aortic aneurysm) in the chronic phase. In contrast, all 11 patients without intimal defect had complete resorption of hematoma. In lesion-based analysis, a depth of intimal defect of ≥5 mm predicted progression with sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of 84%, 95%, 94%, and 86%, respectively.

Conclusions—

A considerable portion of patients with IMH showed intimal defect detected by MDCT even in the very early stage, and defects frequently enlarged. Patients with intimal defect should be carefully followed up with serial imaging.
Modernizing governments in Transitional and Emerging Economies through financial reporting based on international standards
Authors: Navarro Galera Andrés , Rodríguez Bolívar Manuel Pedro
Published: September 2011

In the administrative reforms that countries with emerging and transitional economies are undertaking, the choice of the method to be used for government accounts evaluation is a crucial issue, as the replacement of historical cost by fair value evaluation could affect the success or otherwise of the administrative reforms in these countries. In this article, we analyse the opinions of the National Accounting Standards Setters (NASS) regarding the utility of Fair Value Accounting (FVA) proposed by the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) in the development of administrative reforms in transitional and emerging economies. To achieve this, we perform a survey of the Official National Accounting Standards Setters in these countries, to study the relevance and reliability of financial government reports based on fair value model. Based on the opinions of NASS in sample countries, the findings show that the implementation of fair value in Transitional and Emerging Economies could contribute to administrative reforms, mainly through the enhancement of the usefulness of government financial statements for purposes of transparency and efficiency measurement. In addition, in countries in transition, NASS opinions show that the crucial factor for the usefulness of fair value is the type of assets held by public organizations, but in emerging countries NASS think that the main factor in this respect is the existence of markets where they can be traded.

Points for practitioners

For public managers in Transitional and Emerging Economies, the findings of this article may be useful. The findings show how the implementation of international accounting standards can contribute to successful administrative reforms, through the improvement of financial transparency and the evaluation of the efficiency of public sector services. In addition, we identify determining factors of the usefulness of financial information for administrative reform purposes in Transitional and Emerging Economies, on an individual basis.