bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The energy levels, binding energy and third harmonic generation of a hexagon-shaped quantum wire
Authors: Khordad R. , Bahramiyan H.
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we have studied the effect of impurity on the energy levels and nonlinear optical properties of a hexagon-shaped quantum wire using finite element method (FEM). We have obtained the energy eigenvalues, their corresponding eigenfunctions and third harmonic generation (THG) with and without impurity for different sizes of inner a1 and outer a2 hexagons. It is found that all energy levels are decreased with increasing a1. There is degeneracy between energy levels without impurity. But, there is no degeneracy between the energy levels in the presence of impurity. The dipole matrix elements are increased with enhancing hexagon sizes without impurity. But, these elements have complex behaviors with impurity. The THG increases and shifts toward lower energies by enhancing a1. The influence of a2/a1 on THG is not large when a2/a1 > 2. The THG shifts toward lower energies by increasing impurity position.
TERRAIN VISIBILITY WITH MULTIPLE VIEWPOINTS
Authors: HURTADO FERRAN , LÖFFLER MAARTEN , MATOS INÊS , SACRISTÁN VERA , SAUMELL MARIA , SILVEIRA RODRIGO I. , STAALS FRANK
Published: May 2015

We study the problem of visibility in polyhedral terrains in the presence of multiple viewpoints. We consider a triangulated terrain with m > 1 viewpoints (or guards) located on the terrain surface. A point on the terrain is considered visible if it has an unobstructed line of sight to at least one viewpoint. We study several natural and fundamental visibility structures: (1) the visibility map, which is a partition of the terrain into visible and invisible regions; (2) the colored visibility map, which is a partition of the terrain into regions whose points have exactly the same visible viewpoints; and (3) the Voronoi visibility map, which is a partition of the terrain into regions whose points have the same closest visible viewpoint. We study the complexity of each structure for both 1.5D and 2.5D terrains, and provide efficient algorithms to construct them. Our algorithm for the visibility map in 2.5D terrains improves on the only existing algorithm in this setting. To the best of our knowledge, the other structures have not been studied before.
The Influence of Knowledge Management on Financial and Non-Financial Performance
Authors: Oztekin Asil , Delen Dursun , Zaim Halil , Turkyilmaz Ali , Zaim Selim
Published: May 2015

The primary aim of this study is to determine critical factors of knowledge management (KM) and to measure their effect on organisational performance. The design of the study is based on a survey composed of questions related to the KM processes. Following refinement and retesting the initial questionnaire development, the final questionnaire was subjected to 83 managers from various ranks based on personal interviews. The variance-based structural equation modelling reveals that there is a strong positive relationship between KM implementation and non-financial performance, while there is no significant influence of KM implementation on financial performance. With only a mediating effect of non-financial performance, the KM implementation has a strong positive impact on financial performance. This study presents uniqueness in that it is the first and foremost one that analyses effects of KM practices on financial performance both directly and indirectly via the mediating effect of non-financial performance factors.
Semi-Implicit Coupling of CS-FEM and FEM for the Interaction Between a Geometrically Nonlinear Solid and an Incompressible Fluid
Authors: He Tao
Published: May 2015

A semi-implicit coupling strategy under the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian description is presented for the incompressible fluid flow past a geometrically nonlinear solid in this paper. The incompressible fluid is solved by means of the characteristic-based split (CBS) finite element method while the cell-based smoothed finite element method is employed to settle the governing equation of the geometrically nonlinear solid. Because of the CBS fluid solver, the present coupling strategy is performed in a semi-implicit fashion. In particular, the first step of the CBS scheme is explicitly treated whereas the others are implicitly coupled with the structural motion. The computational cost is hence reduced because no subiterations are included in the explicit coupling step and the fluid mesh is frozen in the implicit coupling step. A classic cantilever problem is dealt with to validate the structural solver, and then flow-induced vibrations of a restrictor flap in a uniform channel flow is analyzed in detail. The obtained results agree well with the existing data.
Computing the Green's Function of the Initial Boundary Value Problem for the Wave Equation in a Radially Layered Cylinder
Authors: Yakhno V. , Ozdek D.
Published: May 2015

In this paper, a method for construction of the time-dependent approximate Green's function for the initial boundary value problem in a radially multilayered cylinder is suggested. This method is based on determination of the eigenvalues and the orthogonal set of the eigenfunctions; regularization of the Dirac delta function in the form of the Fourier series with a finite number of terms; expansion of the unknown Green's function in the form of Fourier series with unknown coefficients and computation of a finite number of unknown Fourier coefficients. Computational experiment confirms the robustness of the method for the approximate computation of the Dirac delta function and Green's function.
Contribution of Shellfish Consumption to Lower Mercury Health Risk for Residents in Northern Jiaozhou Bay, China
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhang Lei
Published: May 2015

Fish and marine mammal consumption are an important pathway for human exposure to mercury. The low mercury content in shellfish poses a low mercury health risk to people who consume shellfish. The objectives of this study are to detect mercury concentrations in different species of shellfish and to calculate the mercury health risk from shellfish consumption among traditional residents near northern Jiaozhou Bay. A total of 356 shellfish samples, which comprised 7 species from 5 different places in northern Jiaozhou Bay, were collected from April to June in 2012. The average mercury content in the collected shellfish ranged from 0.024 mg·kg−1to 0.452 mg·kg−1. A total of 44 shellfish samples (12.36%) had mercury levels exceeding the national pollution-free aquatic products limit (0.3 mg·kg−1). Generally, the viscus had the highest mercury content among all parts of the shellfish. A positive correlation between mercury content and total weight/edible part weight was found in most species of the collected shellfish. The results showed that shellfish consumption resulted in the lower risk of mercury exposure to residents based on the calculation of daily intake (DI) and target hazard quotient (THQ).
Impact of Climate Change on Temperate and Alpine Grasslands in China during 1982–2006
Authors: Shen Xiangjin , Liu Binhui , Li Guangdi , Zhou Daowei
Published: May 2015

Based on GIMMS NDVI and climate data from 1982 to 2006, this study analyzed the impact of climate change on grassland in China. During the growing season, there were significant effects of precipitation on the growth of all the grassland types (P<0.05), except for meadow vegetation. For the air temperatures, there existed asymmetrical effects of maximum temperature (Tmax) and minimum temperature (Tmin) on grassland vegetation, especially for the temperate grasslands and alpine steppe. The growing season NDVI correlated negatively withTmaxbut positively withTminfor temperate grasslands. Seasonally, these opposite effects were only observed in summer. For alpine steppe, the growing season NDVI correlated positively withTmaxbut negatively withTmin, and this pattern of asymmetrical responses was only obvious in spring and autumn. Under the background of global asymmetric warming, more attention should be paid to this asymmetric response of grassland vegetation to daytime and night-time warming, especially when we want to predict the productivity of China’s grasslands in the future.
Copolymerization of Tris(methoxyethoxy)vinyl Silane with N-Vinyl Pyrrolidone: Synthesis, Characterization, and Reactivity Relationships
Authors: Hadi Mohammed Ameen , Bin Ahmad Mansor , Shameli Kamyar
Published: May 2015

Copolymer of tris(methoxyethoxy)vinyl silane (TMEVS) with N-vinyl pyrrolidone (NVP) was synthesized by free radical polymerization in dry benzene at 70°C using benzoyl peroxide (BPO) as initiator. The copolymer was characterized by viscometer, FTIR, and1H-NMR and its thermal properties were studied by DSC and TGA. The copolymer composition was determined by elemental analysis. The monomer reactivity ratios were calculated by linearization methods proposed by Fineman-Ross and Kelen-Tudos. The intersection method was proposed by Mayo-Lewis and nonlinear method was proposed by curve-fitting procedure. The microstructure of copolymer and sequence distribution of monomers in the copolymer were calculated by statistical method.
Metallothionein-I/II Knockout Mice Aggravate Mitochondrial Superoxide Production and Peroxiredoxin 3 Expression in Thyroid after Excessive Iodide Exposure
Authors: Zhang Na , Wang Lingyan , Duan Qi , Lin Laixiang , Ahmed Mohamed , Wang Tingting , Yao Xiaomei
Published: May 2015

Purpose. We aim to figure out the effect of metallothioneins on iodide excess induced oxidative stress in the thyroid.Methods. Eight-week-old MT-I/II knockout (MT-I/II KO) mice and background-matched wild-type (WT) mice were used. Mitochondrial superoxide production and peroxiredoxin (Prx) 3 expression were measured.Results. In in vitro study, more significant increases in mitochondrial superoxide production and Prx 3 expression were detected in the MT-I/II KO groups. In in vivo study, significantly higher concentrations of urinary iodine level were detected in MT-I/II KO mice in 100 HI group. Compared to the NI group, there was no significant difference existing in serum thyroid hormones level in either groups (P>0.05), while the mitochondrial superoxide production was significantly increased in 100 HI groups with significantly increased LDH activity and decreased relative cell viability. Compared to WT mice, more significant changes were detected in MT-I/II KO mice in 100 HI groups. No significant differences were detected between the NI group and 10 HI group in both the MT-I/II KO and WT mice groups (P>0.05).Conclusions. Iodide excess in a thyroid without MT I/II protection may result in strong mitochondrial oxidative stress, which further leads to the damage of thyrocytes.
Applying1H NMR Spectroscopy to Detect Changes in the Urinary Metabolite Levels of Chinese Half-Pipe Snowboarders after Different Exercises
Authors: Wang Fuqiu , Han Jiao , He Qing , Geng Zhufeng , Deng Zhiwei , Qiao Decai
Published: May 2015

Monitoring physical training is important for the health and performance of athletes, and real-time assessment of fatigue is crucial to improve training efficiency. The relationship between key biomarkers and exercise has been reported. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of different levels of training exercises on the urine metabolome.1H NMR-based metabolomics analysis was performed on urine samples from half-pipe snowboarders, and spectral profiles were subjected to PCA and PLS-DA. Our results show that metabolic profiles varied during different stages of exercises. Lactate, alanine, trimethylamine, malonate, taurine, and glycine levels decreased while TMAO and phenylalanine levels increased in the stage with higher amount and intensity of exercise. Although the amount of exercise was reduced in subsequent stage, no significant variations of metabolic profile were found. Metabolic changes induced by training level were analyzed with related metabolic pathway. Studying metabolome changes can provide a better understanding of the physiology of athletes and could aid in adjusting training.
A Rare and Serious Syndrome That Requires Attention in Emergency Service: Traumatic Asphyxia
Authors: Gulbahar Gultekin , Kaplan Tevfik , Gundogdu Ahmet Gokhan , Baran Hatice Nurdan , Kazanci Burak , Kocer Bulent , Han Serdar
Published: May 2015

Traumatic asphyxia is a rare syndrome caused by blunt thoracoabdominal trauma and characterized by cyanosis, edema, and subconjunctival and petechial hemorrhage on the face, neck, upper extremities, and the upper parts of the thorax. Traumatic asphyxia is usually diagnosed by history and inspection; however, the patient should be monitored more closely due to probable complications of thoracoabdominal injuries. Treatment is conservative, but the prognosis depends on the severity of the associated injuries. Herein we present a traumatic asphyxia due to an elevator accident in a 32-year-old male patient and discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis by reviewing the relevant literature.
Harnessing the Microbiome to Enhance Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Nelson Michelle H. , Diven Marshall A. , Huff Logan W. , Paulos Chrystal M.
Published: May 2015

The microbiota plays a key role in regulating the innate and adaptive immune system. Herein, we review the immunological aspects of the microbiota in tumor immunity in mice and man, with a focus on toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists, vaccines, checkpoint modulators, chemotherapy, and adoptive T cell transfer (ACT) therapies. We propose innovative treatments that may safely harness the microbiota to enhance T cell-based therapies in cancer patients. Finally, we highlight recent developments in tumor immunotherapy, particularly novel ways to modulate the microbiome and memory T cell responses to human malignancies.
Increased Body Mass Index during Therapy for Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Significant and Underestimated Complication
Authors: Atkinson Helen C. , Marsh Julie A. , Rath Shoshana R. , Kotecha Rishi S. , Gough Hazel , Taylor Mandy , Walwyn Thomas , Gottardo Nicholas G. , Cole Catherine H. , Choong Catherine S.
Published: May 2015

Objective & Design. We undertook a retrospective review of children diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and treated with modern COG protocols(n=80)to determine longitudinal changes in body mass index (BMI) and the prevalence of obesity compared with a healthy reference population.Results. At diagnosis, the majority of patients (77.5%) were in the healthy weight category. During treatment, increases in BMIz-scores were greater for females than males; the prevalence of obesity increased from 10.3% to 44.8%(P<0.004)for females but remained relatively unchanged for males (9.8% to 13.7%,P=0.7). Longitudinal analysis using linear mixed-effects identified associations between BMIz-scores and time-dependent interactions with sex(P=0.0005), disease risk(P<0.0001), age(P=0.0001), and BMIz-score(P<0.0001)at diagnosis and total dose of steroid during maintenance(P=0.01). Predicted mean BMIz-scores at the end of therapy were greater for females with standard risk ALL irrespective of age at diagnosis and for males younger than 4 years of age at diagnosis with standard risk ALL.Conclusion. Females treated on standard risk protocols and younger males may be at greatest risk of becoming obese during treatment for ALL. These subgroups may benefit from intervention strategies to manage BMI during treatment for ALL.
Quality of Care for Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Dubai: A HEDIS-Like Assessment
Authors: Szabo Shelagh M. , Osenenko Katherine M. , Qatami Lara , Korenblat Donato Bonnie M. , Korol Ellen E. , Al Madani Abdulrazzaq A. , Al Awadi Fatheya F. , Al-Ansari Jaber , Maclean Ross , Levy Adrian R.
Published: May 2015

Objective. As little data are available on the quality of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) care in the Arabian Gulf States, we estimated the proportion of patients receiving recommended monitoring at the Dubai Hospital for T2DM over one year.Methods. Charts from 150 adults with T2DM were systematically sampled and quality of care was assessed during one calendar year, using a Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set- (HEDIS-) like assessment. Screening for glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), blood pressure, retinopathy, and nephropathy was considered. Patients were classified based on their most recent test in the period, and predictors of receiving quality care were examined.Results. Mean age was 58 years (standard deviation (SD): 12.4 years) and 33% were males. Over the year, 98% underwent HbA1c screening (50% had control and 28% displayed poor control); 91% underwent LDL screening (65% had control); 55% had blood pressure control; 30% had retinopathy screening; and 22% received attention for nephropathy. No individual characteristics examined predicted receiving quality care.Conclusion. Some guideline monitoring was conducted for most patients; and rates of monitoring for selected measures were comparable to benchmarks from the United States. Greater understanding of factors leading to high adherence would be useful for other areas of preventive care and other jurisdictions.
Coupling Influence on Signal Readout of a Dual-Parameter LC Resonant System
Authors: Xiong Jijun , Wei Tanyong , Luo Tao , Tan Qiulin , Xue Chenyang , Liu Jun , Zhang Wendong
Published: May 2015

Dual-parameter inductive-capacitive (LC) resonant sensor is gradually becoming the measurement trend in complex harsh environments; however, the coupling between inductors greatly affects the readout signal, which becomes very difficult to resolve by means of simple mathematical tools. By changing the values of specific variables in a MATLAB code, the influence of coupling between coils on the readout signal is analyzed. Our preliminary conclusions underline that changing the coupling to antenna greatly affects the readout signal, but it simultaneously influences the other signal. Whenf01=f02, it is better to broaden the difference between the two coupling coefficientsk1andk2. On the other side, whenf01is smaller thanf02, it is better to decrease the coupling between sensor inductorsk12, in order to obtain two readout signals averaged in strength. Finally, a test system including a discrete capacitor soldered to a printed circuit board (PCB) based planar spiral coil is built, and the readout signals under different relative inductors positions are analyzed. All experimental results are in good agreement with the results of the MATLAB simulation.
Marked Direct Hyperbilirubinemia due to Ceftriaxone in an Adult with Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Khurram Daniyeh , Shamban Leonid , Kornas Robert , Paul Maryann
Published: May 2015

Drugs are a significant cause of liver injury. Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) can cause acute hepatitis, cholestasis, or a mixed pattern. Ceftriaxone is a commonly used antibiotic and has been associated with reversible biliary sludge, pseudolithiasis, and cholestasis. A 32-year-old male with sickle cell disease was admitted to the hospital for acute sickle cell crisis. On the second day of hospitalization, he developed cough and rhonchi with chest X-ray revealing right middle lobe infiltrates. Ceftriaxone and azithromycin were initiated. Subsequently, he developed conjugated hyperbilirubinemia and mild transaminitis. His total bilirubin trended upwards from 3.3 mg/dL on admission to 17 mg/dL. It was predominantly conjugated bilirubin, with preadmission bilirubin levels of 3-4 mg/dL. His transaminases were mildly elevated as well compared to previous levels. Extensive workup for bilirubin elevation was unremarkable. Ceftriaxone was switched to levofloxacin and the hyperbilirubinemia improved. On ambulatory follow-up, his bilirubin remained below 4 mg/dL. Ceftriaxone may be associated with marked direct hyperbilirubinemia particularly in sickle cell patients with chronic liver chemistry abnormalities. In the case of elevated bilirubin with concomitant ceftriaxone use, elimination of the offending agent should be considered.
Study on Dynamic Disaster in Steeply Deep Rock Mass Condition in Urumchi Coalfield
Authors: Lai Xing-Ping , Cai Mei-Feng , Ren Fen-Hua , Shan Peng-Fei , Cui Feng , Cao Jian-Tao
Published: May 2015

The possible mining seismicity (MS) and its prediction are important for safety and recovery optimization of mining in steep-heavy-thick rock mass condition. The stress-lever-rotation-effect (SLRE) model of fault-like mobilization was proposed preliminarily. Some innovation monitoring technique approaches for mining seismicity assessment were successfully fulfilled at Wudong Mine of Urumchi Coalfield, China. The characteristics on acoustic-seismic-wave index indicated the spatial-temporal-strength and stress redistribution of steeply deeper-heavy thick coal and rock masses. Applications in field investigations showed that the innovation monitoring (in time and space) of these instruments could provide important information about the performance of mining disturbed structures (heading and steep pillar) during caving of competent overlying roof strata. The prediction and evaluation for mining seismicity were applicable and valid. Operating practice showed that mining efficiency was raised and conspicuous economic benefit was obtained. This approach provides essential data for assessing mining seismicity, coal burst, dynamic hazard prevention, and deep mining potential.
Comparison of 3D Adaptive Remeshing Strategies for Finite Element Simulations of Electromagnetic Heating of Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Mezghani Fadhil , Barchiesi Dominique , Cherouat Abel , Grosges Thomas , Borouchaki Houman
Published: May 2015

The optical properties of metallic nanoparticles are well known, but the study of their thermal behavior is in its infancy. However the local heating of surrounding medium, induced by illuminated nanostructures, opens the way to new sensors and devices. Consequently the accurate calculation of the electromagnetically induced heating of nanostructures is of interest. The proposed multiphysics problem cannot be directly solved with the classical refinement method of Comsol Multiphysics and a 3D adaptive remeshing process based on ana posteriorierror estimator is used. In this paper the efficiency of three remeshing strategies for solving the multiphysics problem is compared. The first strategy uses independent remeshing for each physical quantity to reach a given accuracy. The second strategy only controls the accuracy on temperature. The third strategy uses a linear combination of the two normalized targets (the electric field intensity and the temperature). The analysis of the performance of each strategy is based on the convergence of the remeshing process in terms of number of elements. The efficiency of each strategy is also characterized by the number of computation iterations, the number of elements, the CPU time, and the RAM required to achieve a given target accuracy.
Stent Placement for Acute Superior Mesenteric Artery Occlusion Associated with Type B Aortic Dissection
Authors: Suzuki Kazushi , Shimohira Masashi , Hashizume Takuya , Shibamoto Yuta
Published: May 2015

A 50-year-old man had a mesenteric ischemia related to superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion associated with a type B aortic dissection. We decided to perform stent placement for the SMA and could avoid mesenteric ischemia. We think the stent placement in the SMA might be an option for the treatment of mesenteric ischemia caused by aortic dissection.
Fe(III)/TiO2-Montmorillonite Photocatalyst in Photo-Fenton-Like Degradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Fatimah Is , Sumarlan Iwan , Alawiyah Tuty
Published: May 2015

A photodegradation process of methylene blue (MB) in aqueous solution using Fe(III)/TiO2-montmorillonite photocatalyst is presented. The photocatalyst material was prepared using Indonesian natural montmorillonite in TiO2pillarization process followed by Fe(III) ion exchange. Kinetic study on MB degradation was conducted and evaluated by three kinetic models: the pseudo-first- and second-order equations and the Elovich equation. From the results, it is concluded that the degradation under the photo-Fenton-like process utilizing Fe(III)/TiO2-montmorillonite photocatalyst conformed to the Elovich kinetic model.
Analysis of College Classes Based on U-CLASS System Using Personal Mobile Nodes
Authors: Kim Chonggun , Kim Jeongmi , Park Hohwan , Ha Ilkyu
Published: May 2015

The increase in mobile communications has led to advanced educational methods and technologies through accepting new technologies. A lot of studies have tried to overcome temporal and spatial limits on using personal mobile devices and have tried to increase learning effectiveness using various efficient educational methods. In this paper, U-CLASS, an interactive learning management system that provides interactive communications between a professor and students, is proposed and implemented. Monitoring of academic achievement after a real experiment with the proposed system and analysis of educational activities during the experimental class are important points. In order to achieve that, the proposed system was used in a practical class at a university, and educational activities from the classroom were gathered and analyzed. The data on the educational activities include frequency of questions, attendance rate, and seat positions of the students. Analysis results show that the average distance between professor and student in the classroom is strongly related to the grade of the student. Students who have a higher attendance rate and who ask more questions commonly show higher achievement.
The Protective Effect of Resveratrol on Concanavalin-A-Induced Acute Hepatic Injury in Mice
Authors: Zhou Yingqun , Chen Kan , He Lei , Xia Yujing , Dai Weiqi , Wang Fan , Li Jingjing , Li Sainan , Liu Tong , Zheng Yuanyuan , Wang Jianrong , Lu Wenxia , Yin Qin , Zhou Yuqing , Lu Jie , Teng Hongfei , Guo Chuanyong
Published: May 2015

Pharmacologic Relevance.Resveratrol, an antioxidant derived from grapes, has been reported to modulate the inflammatory process. In this study, we investigated the effects of resveratrol and its mechanism of protection on concanavalin-A- (ConA-) induced liver injury in mice.Materials and Methods.Acute autoimmune hepatitis was induced by ConA (20 mg/kg) in Balb/C mice; mice were treated with resveratrol (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg) daily by oral gavage for fourteen days prior to a single intravenous injection of ConA. Eight hours after injection, histologic grading, proinflammatory cytokine levels, and hedgehog pathway activity were determined.Results.After ConA injection, the cytokines IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-αwere increased, and Sonic hedgehog (Shh), Glioblastoma- (Gli-) 1, and Patched (Ptc) levels significantly increased. Pretreatment with resveratrol ameliorated the pathologic effects of ConA-induced autoimmune hepatitis and significantly inhibited IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, Shh, Gli-1, and Ptc. The effects of resveratrol on the hedgehog pathway were studied by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Resveratrol decreased Shh expression, possibly by inhibiting Shh expression in order to reduce Gli-1 and Ptc expression.Conclusion.Resveratrol protects against ConA-induced autoimmune hepatitis by decreasing cytokines expression in mice. The decreases seen in Gli-1 and Ptc may correlate with the amelioration of hedgehog pathway activity.
Monoamine Oxidases as Potential Contributors to Oxidative Stress in Diabetes: Time for a Study in Patients Undergoing Heart Surgery
Authors: Duicu Oana M. , Lighezan Rodica , Sturza Adrian , Ceausu Raluca A. , Borza Claudia , Vaduva Adrian , Noveanu Lavinia , Gaspar Marian , Ionac Adina , Feier Horea , Muntean Danina M. , Mornos Cristian
Published: May 2015

Oxidative stress is a pathomechanism causally linked to the progression of chronic cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Mitochondria have emerged as the most relevant source of reactive oxygen species, the major culprit being classically considered the respiratory chain at the inner mitochondrial membrane. In the past decade, several experimental studies unequivocally demonstrated the contribution of monoamine oxidases (MAOs) at the outer mitochondrial membrane to the maladaptative ventricular hypertrophy and endothelial dysfunction. This paper addresses the contribution of mitochondrial dysfunction to the pathogenesis of heart failure and diabetes together with the mounting evidence for an emerging role of MAO inhibition as putative cardioprotective strategy in both conditions.
Technical Feasibility of TachoSil Application on Esophageal Anastomoses
Authors: Haverkamp Leonie , Ruurda Jelle P. , van Hillegersberg Richard
Published: May 2015

Purpose. Sealing esophageal anastomoses with a sealant patch (TachoSil) containing human fibrinogen and thrombin may improve mechanical strength. The aim was to evaluate the technical feasibility of the application of a sealant patch in upper gastrointestinal surgery.Methods. In total 15 patients, 18–80 years old, undergoing thoracolaparoscopic esophagectomy with esophagogastrostomy or laparoscopic total gastrectomy with esophagojejunostomy was included. Different techniques of anastomotic TachoSil patch application were tested and recorded on video.Results. TachoSil was successfully applied to the esophagogastrostomy (n=11) and to the esophagojejunostomy (n=4). A median of 2 (1–6) attempts was necessary to reach successful application. The median duration was 7 (3–26) minutes before successful application was accomplished. The best technique in esophagectomy was the application of TachoSil with the use of 2 cellophane sheets. For total gastrectomy, the patch was folded into a harmonica shape and wrapped around the esophagojejunostomy. Although not significant, the number of attempts and time to success showed a decreasing trend along with the increased experience.Conclusion. Application of TachoSil as a sealant of esophageal anastomoses was technically feasible. Future studies may investigate the value of TachoSil application on the prevention of anastomotic leakage.
An Investigation of a Combined Thiourea and Hexamethylenetetramine as Inhibitors for Corrosion of N80 in 15% HCl Solution: Electrochemical Experiments and Quantum Chemical Calculation
Authors: Hu Jun , Wang Yun , Yu Lijun , Zou Yongqiang , Wang Yuqi
Published: May 2015

The inhibition mechanism of thiourea (TU) and hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) mixed in 15% HCl solution on N80 surface was investigated by potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements, and surface morphology analysis. Quantum chemical calculations and molecular dynamics simulations were performed to study the properties of TU and HMTA. The results showed that the inhibitors can form strong bonds and stable films on the surface, which inhibits the cathodic and anodic reactions in HCl solution and reduces the diffusion coefficients of corrosive particles.
Intramuscular Olanzapine in the Management of Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms in Hospitalized Older Adults: A Retrospective Descriptive Study
Authors: Duong Silvia , Yeung Kam-Tong , Chang Feng
Published: May 2015

Background. While behavioral and psychological symptoms are frequent in hospitalized older adults with dementia or delirium, data supporting the off-label use of intramuscular atypical antipsychotics remain scarce. We examined the use of short-acting intramuscular (IM) olanzapine in hospitalized older adults to manage behavioral and psychological symptoms.Methods. A retrospective observational study of inpatients 65 years or older with at least one order for olanzapine IM during admission in urban Ontario Canada was conducted. Patient demographics, prescriptions for olanzapine IM, reason for administration, perceived effectiveness, adverse events, concurrently prescribed psychotropics, comorbidities, and patient discharge destination were recorded.Results. Among 82 patients aged 65–96 years (mean ± SD 79.3 ± 7.7) 85 cases were identified. Cognitive impairment or dementia affected 63.5% and 50.6% had comorbidities. Olanzapine IM was ordered 102 times and 34 patients (41%) received at least one dose. The intended efficacy was achieved in 79.4% of 78 cases of 124 doses given (62.9%). Fourteen (41%) patients who received doses experienced adverse events, with sedation and hypotension being the most common.Conclusions. Olanzapine IM appears effective in hospitalized older adults but is associated with potential adverse events. Structured monitoring and documentation are needed to ensure safe use in this high-risk population.
Numerical and Experimental Verification of a 3D Quasi-Optical System
Authors: Lu Zejian , Liu Xiaoming , Wang Hai , Chen Xiaodong , Yao Yuan , Yu Junsheng
Published: May 2015

A modular and efficient Gaussian beam (GB) analysis method, incorporating frame-based Gabor transformation, GB reflection, and a 3D GB diffraction technique, was developed to analyze both the reflectors and frequency selective surface (FSS) in quasi-optical (QO) system. To validate this analysis method, a 3D dual-channel QO system operating at 183 and 325 GHz was designed and tested. The proposed QO system employs two-layer structure with a FSS of perforated hexagonal array transmitting the 325 GHz signal on the top layer while diverting the 183 GHz signal to the bottom layer. Measured results of the system demonstrate that the agreement can be achieved down to −30 dB signal level for both channels in the far field pattern. The discrepancy between the calculation and measurement is within 2 dB in the main beam region (2.5 times −3 dB beamwidth), verifying the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method.
Gas-Forming Pyogenic Liver Abscess with Septic Shock
Authors: Khan Muhammad S. , Ishaq Muhammad K. , Jones Kellie R.
Published: May 2015

The pyogenic liver abscess caused byClostridium perfringens(C. perfringens) is a rare but rapidly fatal infection. The main virulence factor of this pathogen is itsα-toxin (lecithinase), which decomposes the phospholipid in cell membranes leading to cell lysis. Once the bacteria are in blood stream, massive intravascular hemolysis occurs. This can present as anemia on admission with evidence of hemolysis as indicated by low serum haptoglobin, high serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), elevated indirect bilirubin, and spherocytosis. The clinical course ofC. perfringenssepticemia is marked by rapidly deteriorating course with a mortality rate ranging from 70 to 100%. The very rapid clinical course makes it difficult to diagnose on time, and most cases are diagnosed at autopsy. Therefore it is important to considerC. perfringensinfection in any severely ill patient with fever and evidence of hemolysis. We present a case of seventy-seven-year-old male with septic shock secondary to pyogenic liver abscess with a brief review of existing literature onC. perfringens.
Kinetics of Phase Transformation of Indium in the Presence of Polytetrafluoroethylene: Implications for DSC Measurements on Polymers and Their Composites
Authors: Raimo Maria
Published: May 2015

The present work focuses on the influence, at nominal constant temperatures, of an inert polymer on the crystallization kinetics of a highly conductive metal as indium (In) to show not only that the presence of a polymer allows obtaining information on the In crystallization directly from differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) curves, but also that appropriate corrections of thermal measurements on low conductivity samples are needed.
A Sinusoidally Driven Lorenz System and Circuit Implementation
Authors: Han Chunyan , Yu Simin , Wang Guangyi
Published: May 2015

Another approach is developed for generating two-wing hyperchaotic attractor, four-wing chaotic attractor, and high periodic orbits such as period-14 from a sinusoidally driven based canonical Lorenz system. A sinusoidal function controller is introduced into a 3D autonomous Lorenz system, so that the abovementioned various hyperchaotic attractors, chaotic attractors, and high periodic orbits can be obtained, respectively, by adjusting the frequency of the sine function. In addition, an analog circuit and a digital circuit are also designed and implemented, with experimental results demonstrated. Both numerical simulations and circuit implementation together show the effectiveness of the proposed systematic methodology.
Critical Appraisal of Clinical Practice Guidelines for Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Wu Annie M. , Wu Connie M. , Young Benjamin K. , Wu Dominic J. , Margo Curtis E. , Greenberg Paul B.
Published: May 2015

Purpose. To evaluate the methodological quality of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) clinical practice guidelines (CPGs).Methods. AMD CPGs published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCO) were appraised by independent reviewers using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument, which comprises six domains (Scope and Purpose, Stakeholder Involvement, Rigor of Development, Clarity of Presentation, Applicability, and Editorial Independence), and an Overall Assessment score summarizing methodological quality across all domains.Results. Average domain scores ranged from 35% to 83% for the AAO CPG and from 17% to 83% for the RCO CPG. Intraclass correlation coefficients for the reliability of mean scores for the AAO and RCO CPGs were 0.74 and 0.88, respectively. The strongest domains were Scope and Purpose and Clarity of Presentation. The weakest were Stakeholder Involvement (AAO) and Editorial Independence (RCO).Conclusions. Future AMD CPGs can be improved by involving all relevant stakeholders in guideline development, ensuring transparency of guideline development and review methodology, improving guideline applicability with respect to economic considerations, and addressing potential conflict of interests within the development group.
Studying and Incorporating Efficiency into Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Centers
Authors: Day Lukejohn W. , Belson David
Published: May 2015

Efficiency is defined as the use of resources in such a way as to maximize the production of goods and services. Improving efficiency has been the focus of management in many industries; however, it has not been until recently that incorporating efficiency models into healthcare has occurred. In particular, the study and development of improvement projects aimed at enhancing efficiency in GI have been growing rapidly in recent years. This focus on improving efficiency in GI has been spurred by the dramatic rise in the demand for endoscopic procedures as well as the rising number of insured patients requiring GI care coupled at the same time with limited resources in terms of staffing and space in endoscopy centers. This paper will critically review the history of efficiency in endoscopy centers, first by looking at other healthcare industries that have extensively studied and improved efficiency in their fields, examine a number of proposed efficiency metrics and benchmarks in endoscopy centers, and finally discuss opportunities where endoscopy centers could improve their efficiency.
Discrepancies in Different Precipitation Data Products in the Bay of Bengal during Summer Monsoon Season
Authors: Qi Li , Wang Yuqing
Published: May 2015

In the east Bay of Bengal (BoB), the precipitation maximum always lies near the eastern coast on the windward side of Mountain Araka Yoma in the summer monsoon season. In this study, different precipitation products are compared in terms of their representation of the offshore rainfall maximum feature in this region. Climatologically, all products examined present similar rainfall distribution except for the CMAP. Significant discrepancies among different products are found in the interannual variation, as illustrated by the contrast features between 2002 and 2005. Based on the TRMM products (except for 3B42RT) and GPCP V1.2, the precipitation maximum occurred near the coast in 2002, while it was about 100–200 km offshore in 2005. However, this difference is not obvious in the GPCP V2.2 and TRMM 3B42RT products. Larger easterly vertical wind shear and warmer SST were present in 2005. Both favor stronger orographically-forced convective systems to propagate offshore, leading to the offshore rainfall maximum in 2005. Therefore, it is suggested that the TRMM 3B40RT, which is mainly based on passive microwave estimates, may be more reliable among different precipitation products in reflecting the precipitation feature in the coastal region of the east BoB.
The Effect ofChanna striatus(Haruan) Extract on Pain and Wound Healing of Post-Lower Segment Caesarean Section Women
Authors: Ab Wahab Siti Zubaidah , Abdul Kadir Azidah , Nik Hussain Nik Hazlina , Omar Julia , Yunus Rohaizan , Baie Saringat , Mohd Noor Norhayati , Hassan Intan Idiana , Wan Mahmood Wan Haslindawani , Abd Razak Asrenee , Wan Yusoff Wan Zahanim
Published: May 2015

Channa striatushas been consumed for decades as a remedy to promote wound healing by women during postpartum period. The objectives of this study were to compare postoperative pain, wound healing based on wound evaluation scale (WES), wound cosmetic appearance based on visual analogue scale (VAS) scores and patient satisfaction score (PSS), and safety profiles betweenC. striatusgroup and placebo group after six weeks of lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) delivery. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted. Subjects were randomised in a ratio of 1 : 1 into either theC. striatusgroup (500 mg daily) or placebo group (500 mg of maltodextrin daily). 76 subjects were successfully randomised, with 38 in theC. striatusgroup and 35 in the placebo group. There were no significant differences in postoperative painp=0.814and WESp=0.160between theC. striatusand placebo groups. However, VAS and PSS in theC. striatusgroup were significantly better compared with the placebo group (p=0.014andp<0.001, resp.). The safety profiles showed no significant differences between the groups. In conclusion, six-week supplementation of 500 mg ofC. striatusextract showed marked differences in wound cosmetic appearance and patient’s satisfaction and is safe for human consumption.
Effects of Dopant Metal Variation and Material Synthesis Method on the Material Properties of Mixed Metal Ferrites in Yttria Stabilized Zirconia for Solar Thermochemical Fuel Production
Authors: Leonard Jeffrey , Reyes Nichole , Allen Kyle M. , Randhir Kelvin , Li Like , AuYeung Nick , Grunewald Jeremy , Rhodes Nathan , Bobek Michael , Klausner James F.
Published: May 2015

Mixed metal ferrites have shown much promise in two-step solar-thermochemical fuel production. Previous work has typically focused on evaluating a particular metal ferrite produced by a particular synthesis process, which makes comparisons between studies performed by independent researchers difficult. A comparative study was undertaken to explore the effects different synthesis methods have on the performance of a particular material during redox cycling using thermogravimetry. This study revealed that materials made via wet chemistry methods and extended periods of high temperature calcination yield better redox performance. Differences in redox performance between materials made via wet chemistry methods were minimal and these demonstrated much better performance than those synthesized via the solid state method. Subsequently, various metal ferrite samples (NiFe2O4, MgFe2O4, CoFe2O4, and MnFe2O4) in yttria stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) were synthesized via coprecipitation and tested to determine the most promising metal ferrite combination. It was determined that 10 wt.% CoFe2O4in 8YSZ produced the highest and most consistent yields of O2and CO. By testing the effects of synthesis methods and dopants in a consistent fashion, those aspects of ferrite preparation which are most significant can be revealed. More importantly, these insights can guide future efforts in developing the next generation of thermochemical fuel production materials.
Inclusion of Neuropsychological Scores in Atrophy Models Improves Diagnostic Classification of Alzheimer’s Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Goryawala Mohammed , Zhou Qi , Barker Warren , Loewenstein David A. , Duara Ranjan , Adjouadi Malek
Published: May 2015

Brain atrophy in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are difficult to demarcate to assess the progression of AD. This study presents a statistical framework on the basis of MRI volumes and neuropsychological scores. A feature selection technique using backward stepwise linear regression together with linear discriminant analysis is designed to classify cognitive normal (CN) subjects, early MCI (EMCI), late MCI (LMCI), and AD subjects in an exhaustive two-group classification process. Results show a dominance of the neuropsychological parameters like MMSE and RAVLT. Cortical volumetric measures of the temporal, parietal, and cingulate regions are found to be significant classification factors. Moreover, an asymmetrical distribution of the volumetric measures across hemispheres is seen for CN versus EMCI and EMCI versus AD, showing dominance of the right hemisphere; whereas CN versus LMCI and EMCI versus LMCI show dominance of the left hemisphere. A 2-fold cross-validation showed an average accuracy of 93.9%, 90.8%, and 94.5%, for the CN versus AD, CN versus LMCI, and EMCI versus AD, respectively. The accuracy for groups that are difficult to differentiate like EMCI versus LMCI was 73.6%. With the inclusion of the neuropsychological scores, a significant improvement (24.59%) was obtained over using MRI measures alone.
Towards a Carbon Nanotube Intermodulation Product Sensor for Nonlinear Energy Harvesting
Authors: Lerner Mitchell B. , Goldsmith Brett , Rockway John , Perez Israel
Published: May 2015

It is critically important in designing RF receiver front ends to handle high power jammers and other strong interferers. Instead of blocking incoming energy or dissipating it as heat, we investigate the possibility of redirecting that energy for harvesting and storage. The approach is based on channelizing a high power signal into a previously unknown circuit element which serves as a passive intermodulation device. This intermodulation component must produce a hysteretic current-voltage curve to be useful as an energy harvester. Here we demonstrate a method by which carbon nanotube transistors produce the necessary hystereticI-Vcurves. Such devices can be tailored to the desired frequency by introducing functional groups to the nanotubes. These effects controllably enhance the desired behavior, namely, hysteretic nonlinearity in the transistors’I-Vcharacteristic. Combining these components with an RF energy harvester may one day enable the reuse of inbound jamming energy for standard back end radio components.