bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Faintly Continuous Functions via Generalized Topology
Authors: Roy Bishwambhar
Published: October 2013

The notion of faintly -continuous function has been introduced. Relationship between this new class of function with similar types of functions has been given. Some characterizations and properties of such function are also being discussed.
Numerical Solution of Nonlinear Fredholm Integrodifferential Equations by Hybrid of Block-Pulse Functions and Normalized Bernstein Polynomials
Authors: Behiry S. H.
Published: October 2013

A numerical method for solving nonlinear Fredholm integrodifferential equations is proposed. The method is based on hybrid functions approximate. The properties of hybrid of block pulse functions and orthonormal Bernstein polynomials are presented and utilized to reduce the problem to the solution of nonlinear algebraic equations. Numerical examples are introduced to illustrate the effectiveness and simplicity of the present method.
A Light-Field-Based Method to Adjust On-Axis Rounded Leaf End MLC Position to Predict Off-Axis MLC Penumbra Region Dosimetric Performance in a Radiation Therapy Planning System
Authors: Wu Jia-Ming , Lee Tsair-Fwu , Yeh Shyh-An , Hsiao Kuan-Yin , Chen Hsin-Hsiung , Chao Pei-Ju , Chen Yi-Ting
Published: October 2013

Purpose. An analytical and experimental study of split shape dose calculation correction by adjusting the position of the on-axis round leaf end position is presented. We use on-axis corrected results to predict off-axis penumbra region dosimetric performance in an intensity-modulated radiation therapy treatment planning system.Materials and Methods. The precise light-field edge position (Xtang.p) was derived from the on-axis 50% dose position created by using the nominal light field for geometric and mathematical manipulation. Leaf position (Xmlc.p) could be derived fromXtang.pby defining in the treatment planning system for monitor unit calculation. On-axis offset (correction) could be obtained from the position corresponding to 50% of the central axis dose minus theXmlc.pposition. The off-axis 50% dose position can then be derived from the on-axis 50% dose position.Results. The monitor unit calculation of the split shape using the on-axis rounded leaf end MLC penumbra region could provide an under-or overdose of 7.5% per millimeter without an offset correction. When using the on-axis rounded leaf end offset correction to predict the off-axis dose, the difference between the off- and on-axis 50% dose position is within ±1.5 mm.Conclusions. It is possible to achieve a dose calculation within 0.5% error for an adjusted MLC leaf edge location in the treatment planning system with careful measurement and an accurate on-axis offset correction. Dose calculations located at an off-axis spilt shape region should be used carefully due to noncorrectable errors which were found to be up to 10%.
Body Posture Asymmetry Differences between Children with Mild Scoliosis and Children with Unilateral Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Domagalska-Szopa Małgorzata , Szopa Andrzej
Published: October 2013

Patients with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) often have impaired movement coordination, reduced between-limb synchronization, and less weight bearing on the affected side, which can affect the maintenance of an upright weight-bearing position and gait. This study evaluated whether the different postural patterns of children with unilateral CP could be statistically recognized using cluster analysis. Forty-five outpatients with unilateral CP (mean age, 9 years and 5 months) and 51 able-bodied children with mild scoliosis (mean age, 9 years and 2 months) were included. One observer performed moiré topography (MT) examinations using a CQ Electronic System (Poland) device. A weight distribution analysis on the base of support (BOS) between the body sides was performed simultaneously. A force plate dynamographic platform (PDM), ZEBRIS (Germany), with FootPrint software was used for these measurements. Cluster analysis revealed three groups: Cluster 1 (, 73.96%), Cluster 2 (, 8.33%), and Cluster 3 (, 17.71%). Based on the MT parameters (extracted using a data reduction technique), three typical asymmetrical postural patterns were described: (1) the postural pattern of children with mild scoliosis (SCOL), (2) the progravitational postural pattern (PGPP), and (3) the antigravitational pattern. Patterns two and three were identified in children with unilateral CP.
Rare Variants in theTREX1Gene and Susceptibility to Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Barizzone Nadia , Monti Sara , Mellone Simona , Godi Michela , Marchini Maurizio , Scorza Raffaella , Danieli Maria G. , D’Alfonso Sandra
Published: October 2013

TREX1 (DNase III) is an exonuclease involved in response to oxidative stress and apoptosis. Heterozygous mutations inTREX1were previously observed in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren's syndrome (SS). We performed a mutational analysis of theTREX1gene on three autoimmune diseases: SLE (210 patients) and SS (58 patients), to confirm aTREX1involvement in the Italian population, and systemic sclerosis (SSc, 150 patients) because it shares similarities with SLE (presence of antinuclear antibodies and connective tissue damage). We observed 7 variations; two of these are novel nonsynonymous variants (p.Glu198Lys and p.Met232Val). They were detected in one SS and in one SSc patient, respectively, and in none of the 200 healthy controls typed in this study and of the 1712 published controls.In silicoanalysis predicts a possibly damaging role on protein function for both variants. The other 5 variations are synonymous and only one of them is novel (p.Pro48Pro). This study contributes to the demonstration thatTREX1is involved in autoimmune diseases and proposes that the spectrum of involved autoimmune diseases can be broader and includes SSc. We do not confirm a role ofTREX1variants in SLE.
Micromagnetic Simulations of Anisotropies in Coupled and Uncoupled Ferromagnetic Nanowire Systems
Authors: Blachowicz T. , Ehrmann A.
Published: October 2013

The influence of a variation of spatial relative orientations onto the coupling dynamics and subsequent magnetic anisotropies was modeled in ferromagnetic nanowires. The wires were analyzed in the most elementary configurations, thus, arranged in pairs perpendicular to each other, leading to one‐dimensional (linear) and zero‐dimensional (point‐like) coupling. Different distances within each elementary pair of wires and between the pairs give rise to varying interactions between parallel and perpendicular wires, respectively. Simulated coercivities show an exchange of easy and hard axes for systems with different couplings. Additionally, two of the systems exhibit a unique switching behavior which can be utilized for developing new functionalities.
Relativistic Bound States of Spinless Particle by the Cornell Potential Model in External Fields
Authors: Ikhdair Sameer M.
Published: October 2013

The two-dimensional (2D) relativistic bound states of a spinless particle placed in scalarS(r)and vectorV(r)Cornell potentials (withS(r)>V(r)) are obtained under the influence of external magnetic and Aharonov-Bohm (AB) flux fields using the wave function ansatz method. The relativistic energy eigenvalues and wave functions are found for any arbitrary state with principalnand magneticmquantum numbers. Further, we obtain the eigensolutions in any dimensional spaceDwithout external fields. We also find the relativistic and nonrelativistic bound states for Coulomb, harmonic oscillator, and Kratzer potentials.
Effect of Therapeutic Inhibition of TNF on Circulating Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Spinelli F. R. , Metere A. , Barbati C. , Pierdominici M. , Iannuccelli C. , Lucchino B. , Ciciarello F. , Agati L. , Valesini G. , Di Franco M.
Published: October 2013

Endothelial dysfunction has been detected in RA patients and seems to be reversed by control of inflammation. Low circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) have been described in many conditions associated with increased cardiovascular risk, including RA. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of inhibition of TNF on EPCs in RA patients. Seventeen patients with moderate-severe RA and 12 sex and age-matched controls were evaluated. Endothelial biomarkers were tested at baseline and after 3 months. EPCs were identified from peripheral blood mononuclear cells by cytofluorimetry using anti-CD34 and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor-receptor 2. Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) was tested by ELISA and flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) by ultrasonography. Circulating EPCs were significantly lower in RA patients than in controls (P=0.001). After 3 months EPCs increased significantly (P=0.0006) while ADMA levels significantly decreased (P=0.001). An inverse correlation between mean increase in EPCs number and mean decrease of DAS28 after treatment was observed (r=−0.56,P=0.04). EPCs inversely correlated with ADMA (r=−0.41,P=0.022). No improvement of FMD was detected. Short-term treatment with anti-TNF was able to increase circulating EPCs concurrently with a proportional decrease of disease activity suggesting that therapeutic intervention aimed at suppressing the inflammatory process might positively affect the endothelial function.
Development of a Modelling to Correlate Site and Diameter of Brain Metastases with Hippocampal Sparing Using Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy
Authors: Chiesa Silvia , Balducci Mario , Azario Luigi , Gaudino Simona , Cellini Francesco , Mattiucci Gian Carlo , Colosimo Cesare , Valentini Vincenzo
Published: October 2013

Purpose. To correlate site and diameter of brain metastases with hippocampal sparing in patients treated by RapidArc (RA) technique on whole brain with simultaneously integrated boost (SIB).Methods and Materials. An RA plan was calculated for brain metastases of 1-2-3 cm of diameter. The whole brain dose was 32.25 Gy (15 fractions), and SIB doses to brain metastases were 63 Gy (2 and 3 cm) or 70.8 Gy (1 cm). Plans were optimized and evaluated for conformity, target coverage, prescription isodose to target volume, homogeneity index, and hippocampal sparing.Results. Fifteen brain lesions and RA plan were generated. Hippocampal volume was 4.09 cm3, and hippocampal avoidance volume was 17.50 cm3. Related to site of metastases, the mean hippocampal dose was 9.68 Gy2for occipital lobe, 10.56 Gy2for frontal lobe, 10.56 Gy2for parietal lobe, 10.94 Gy2for deep brain structures, and 40.44 Gy2for temporal lobe. The mean hippocampal dose was 9.45 Gy2, 10.15 Gy2, and 11.70 Gy2for diameter’s metastases of 1.2 and 3 cm, respectively, excluding results relative to temporal brain lesions.Conclusions. Location more than size of metastases can adversely influence the hippocampus sparing. Further investigation is necessary to meet definitive considerations.
Potential Effects of Medicinal Plants and Secondary Metabolites on Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Cornélio Favarin Daniely , Robison de Oliveira Jhony , Jose Freire de Oliveira Carlo , de Paula Rogerio Alexandre
Published: October 2013

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening syndrome that causes high morbidity and mortality worldwide. ALI is characterized by increased permeability of the alveolar-capillary membrane, edema, uncontrolled neutrophils migration to the lung, and diffuse alveolar damage, leading to acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. Although corticosteroids remain the mainstay of ALI treatment, they cause significant side effects. Agents of natural origin, such as medicinal plants and their secondary metabolites, mainly those with very few side effects, could be excellent alternatives for ALI treatment. Several studies, including our own, have demonstrated that plant extracts and/or secondary metabolites isolated from them reduce most ALI phenotypes in experimental animal models, including neutrophil recruitment to the lung, the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, edema, and vascular permeability. In this review, we summarized these studies and described the anti-inflammatory activity of various plant extracts, such asGinkgo bilobaandPunica granatum, and such secondary metabolites as epigallocatechin-3-gallate and ellagic acid. In addition, we highlight the medical potential of these extracts and plant-derived compounds for treating of ALI.
Soluble RAGE Plasma Levels in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease and Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Falcone Colomba , Bozzini Sara , Guasti Luigina , D’Angelo Angela , Capettini Anna Clizia , Paganini Edoardo Maria , Falcone Rossana , Moia Roberto , Gazzaruso Carmine , Pelissero Gabriele
Published: October 2013

The objective of the present study was define in a relatively large patient population with coronary artery disease (CAD) whether the concomitant presence of peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is known to convey additional cardiovascular risk, was associated with different circulating levels of sRAGE with respect to CAD alone and control subjects. Clinical and laboratory parameters including the ankle brachial index (ABI) and sRAGE (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit) were investigated in 544 patients with angiographically documented CAD and 328 control subjects. 213/554 CAD patients (39%) showed an ABI <0.9 associated with typical symptoms (group CAD + PAD), whereas 331 patients were free from PAD. The concentration of plasma sRAGE was significantly lower (P < 0.0001) in CAD population, with and without PAD, than in control subjects. Among CAD patients, those with PAD showed lower levels of sRAGE. The distribution of the three groups (CAD, CAD + PAD, and controls) according to sRAGE tertiles showed that lower levels were more frequent in patients with CAD and CAD + PAD, whereas higher levels were more frequently found in controls. CAD patients presenting with PAD have lower sRAGE levels than CAD patients without peripheral atherosclerosis showing that stable atherosclerotic lesions in different vascular districts are inversely related to soluble decoy receptor sRAGE.
Pneumomediastinum Complicating Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Boerhaave’s Syndrome
Authors: Alkhuja Samer , Gazizov Natalya , Charles Gervais
Published: October 2013

An 18-year-old man presented with altered mental status. He was found to have diabetic ketoacidosis. Chest X-ray showed pneumomediastinum. After intubation for air-way protection, an oral-gastric tube was placed. A chest computed tomography scan showed the tip of the oral-gastric tube to be in the right hemithorax. The patient underwent a thoracotomy and was managed in the intensive care unit. Both diabetic ketoacidosis and Boerhaave's syndrome should be considered as possible causes of pneumomediastinum in a patient with similar presentation. Boerhaave's syndrome should be ruled out prior to the insertion of an oral-gastric tube to avoid further morbidities.
Implication of Low HDL-c Levels in Patients with Average LDL-c Levels: A Focus on Oxidized LDL, Large HDL Subpopulation, and Adiponectin
Authors: Mascarenhas-Melo Filipa , Sereno José , Teixeira-Lemos Edite , Marado Daniela , Palavra Filipe , Pinto Rui , Rocha-Pereira Petronila , Teixeira Frederico , Reis Flávio
Published: October 2013

To evaluate the impact of low levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) on patients with LDL-c average levels, focusing on oxidative, lipidic, and inflammatory profiles. Patients with cardiovascular risk factors (n=169) and control subjects (n=73) were divided into 2 subgroups, one of normal HDL-c and the other of low HDL-c levels. The following data was analyzed: BP, BMI, waist circumference and serum glucose Total-c, TGs, LDL-c, oxidized LDL, total HDL-c and subpopulations (small, intermediate, and large), paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity, hsCRP, uric acid, TNF-α, adiponectin, VEGF, and iCAM1. In the control subgroup with low HDL-c levels, significantly higher values of BP and TGs and lower values of PON1 activity and adiponectin were found, versus control normal HDL-c subgroup. However, differences in patients’ subgroups were clearly more pronounced. Indeed, low HDL-c subgroup presented increased HbA1c, TGs, non-HDL-c, Ox-LDL, hsCRP, VEGF, and small HDL-c and reduced adiponectin and large HDL. In addition, Ox-LDL, large-HDL-c, and adiponectin presented interesting correlations with classical and nonclassical markers, mainly in the normal HDL-c patients’ subgroup. In conclusion, despite LDL-c average levels, low HDL-c concentrations seem to be associated with a poor cardiometabolic profile in a population with cardiovascular risk factors, which is better evidenced by traditional and nontraditional CV biomarkers, including Ox-LDL, large HDL-c, and adiponectin.
A Type of Node Deployment Strategy Based on Variable Acceleration Motion for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Sha Chao , Wang Ru-chuan , Huang Hai-ping
Published: October 2013

For the purpose of balancing node energy consumption in Wireless Sensor Networks and in the premise of considering network coverage, a kind of node broadcasting scheme at fixed intervals under variational acceleration straight-line movement model is proposed in this paper. Simulation results illustrate that the approach proposed in this paper has a superior performance on balance of energy consumption compared to IEA method and uniform broadcasting as well as random broadcasting methods. And the energy saving effect is close to that of the theoretical deployment model of data fusion and nondata fusion.
Preventive Inositol Hexaphosphate Extracted from Rice Bran Inhibits Colorectal Cancer through Involvement of Wnt/β-Catenin and COX-2 Pathways
Authors: Shafie Nurul Husna , Mohd Esa Norhaizan , Ithnin Hairuszah , Md Akim Abdah , Saad Norazalina , Pandurangan Ashok Kumar
Published: October 2013

Nutritional or dietary factors have drawn attention due to their potential as an effective chemopreventive agent, which is considered a more rational strategy in cancer treatment. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of IP6extracted from rice bran on azoxymethane- (AOM-) induced colorectal cancer (CRC) in rats. Initially, male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups, with 6 rats in each group. The rats received two intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of AOM in saline (15 mg/kg body weight) over a 2-week period to induce CRC. IP6was given in three concentrations, 0.2% (w/v), 0.5% (w/v), and 1.0% (w/v), via drinking water for 16 weeks. The deregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 have been implicated in colorectal tumorigenesis.β-Catenin and COX-2 expressions were analysed using the quantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting. Herein, we reported that the administration of IP6markedly suppressed the incidence of tumors when compared to the control. Interestingly, the administration of IP6had also markedly decreasedβ-catenin and COX-2 in colon tumors. Thus, the downregulation ofβ-catenin and COX-2 could play a role in inhibiting the CRC development induced by IP6and thereby act as a potent anticancer agent.
Prognosis of Elderly Japanese Patients Aged ≥80 Years Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Hatakeyama Shingo , Murasawa Hiromi , Hamano Itsuto , Kusaka Ayumu , Narita Takuma , Oikawa Masaaki , Noro Daisuke , Hagiwara Kazuhisa , Ishimura Hirofumi , Yoneyama Takahiro , Hashimoto Yasuhiro , Koie Takuya , Saitoh Hisao , Funyu Tomihisa , Ohyama Chikara
Published: October 2013

Although the number of elderly patients requiring dialysis has increased, data regarding the prognosis of elderly patients undergoing hemodialysis are limited. In the present study, prognosis in Japanese hemodialysis patients aged ≥80 years was evaluated. From January 1988 to July 2013, 1144 consecutive patients with end‐stage renal disease required renal replacement therapy at our institution; of these, 141 were aged ≥80 years. These patients’ charts were retrospectively reviewed for relevant clinical variables and survival time. The life expectancies table from the National Vital Statistics database was used, and prognostic factors were assessed by multivariate analysis. In total, 107 deaths (76%) were recorded during the study period. The median survival time and estimated life‐shortening period in the patients were 2.6 years and −5.3 years, respectively. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status and hemoglobin level were revealed as prognostic factors in the multivariate analysis. Estimates of prognosis and prognostic factors may provide useful information for physicians as well as elderly patients with end‐stage kidney disease.
How Ocular Surface Disease Impacts the Glaucoma Treatment Outcome
Authors: Kaštelan Snježana , Tomić Martina , Metež Soldo Kata , Salopek-Rabatić Jasminka
Published: October 2013

The treatment goals for glaucoma are lowering the intraocular pressure and preservation of vision. Topical hypotensive drops are the standard form of therapy which is often associated with some symptoms of toxicity, ocular inflammation, allergy, or ocular surface disease (OSD). OSD is a common comorbidity in glaucoma patients, and its prevalence with glaucoma increases with age. Use of topical treatment could additionally increase symptoms of OSD mostly due to preservatives added to multidose medication bottles used to reduce the risk of microbial contamination. This toxicity has been particularly associated with BAK, the most commonly used preservative which damages conjunctival and corneal epithelial cells and significantly aggravates OSD symptoms. OSD adversely affects patients’ quality of life causing discomfort and problems with vision which in turn may result in noncompliance, lack of adherence, and eventually visual impairment. In the management of glaucoma patients OSD symptoms should not be overlooked. If they are present, topical glaucoma treatment should be adapted by decreasing the amount of drops instilled daily, using BAK-free or preservative-free medication and lubricants if necessary. Awareness of the presence and importance of OSD will in turn improve patients' adherence and compliance and thus ultimately the preservation of long-term vision.
Apgar Score Is Related to Development of Atopic Dermatitis: Cotwin Control Study
Authors: Naeser Vibeke , Kahr Niklas , Stensballe Lone Graff , Kyvik Kirsten Ohm , Skytthe Axel , Backer Vibeke , Carson Charlotte Giwercman , Thomsen Simon Francis
Published: October 2013

Aim. To study the impact of birth characteristics on the risk of atopic dermatitis in a twin population. Methods. In a population-based questionnaire study of 10,809 twins, 3–9 years of age, from the Danish Twin Registry, we identified 907 twin pairs discordant for parent-reported atopic dermatitis. We cross-linked with data from the Danish National Birth Registry and performed cotwin control analysis in order to test the impact of birth characteristics on the risk of atopic dermatitis. Results. Apgar score, OR (per unit) = 1.23 (1.06–1.44), P=0.008, and female sex, OR = 1.31 (1.06–1.61), P=0.012, were risk factors for atopic dermatitis in cotwin control analysis, whereas birth anthropometric factors were not significantly related to disease development. Risk estimates in monozygotic and dizygotic twins were not significantly different for the identified risk factors. Conclusions. In this population-based cotwin control study, high Apgar score was a risk factor for atopic dermatitis. This novel finding must be confirmed in subsequent studies.
Myricitrin Inhibits Acrylamide-Mediated Cytotoxicity in Human Caco-2 Cells by Preventing Oxidative Stress
Authors: Chen Wei , Feng Lina , Shen Yang , Su Hongming , Li Ya , Zhuang Jingjing , Zhang Lingxia , Zheng Xiaodong
Published: October 2013

Oxidative stress was thought to be associated with acrylamide cytotoxicity, but the link between oxidative stress and acrylamide cytotoxicity in the gastrointestinal tract, the primary organ in contact with dietary acrylamide, is still unclear. This study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant activity of natural dietary compound myricitrin and its protective role against acrylamide cytotoxicity. We found that myricitrin can effectively scavenge multiple free radicals (including DPPH free radical, hydroxyl radical, and ABTS free radical) in a concentration-dependent manner. Our results further indicated that the presence of myricitrin (2.5–10 μg/mL) was found to significantly inhibit acrylamide-induced cytotoxicity in human gastrointestinal Caco-2 cells. Moreover, acrylamide-induced cytotoxicity is closely related to oxidative stress in Caco-2 cells. Interestingly, myricitrin was able to suppress acrylamide toxicity by inhibiting ROS generation. Taken together, these results demonstrate that myricitrin had a profound antioxidant effect and can protect against acrylamide-mediated cytotoxicity.
Single Peak Solitons for the Boussinesq-Like B(2,2) Equation
Authors: Zhang Lina , Li Shumin , Chen Aiyong
Published: October 2013

The nonlinear dispersive Boussinesq-like B(2,2) equation utt+(u2)xx−(u2)xxxx=0, which exhibits single peak solitons, is investigated. Peakons, cuspons and smooth soliton solutions are obtained by setting the B(2,2) equation under inhomogeneous boundary condition. Asymptotic behavior and numerical simulations are provided for these three types of single peak soliton solutions of the B(2,2) equation.
Detecting and Responding to a Dengue Outbreak: Evaluation of Existing Strategies in Country Outbreak Response Planning
Authors: Harrington Julia , Kroeger Axel , Runge-Ranzinger Silvia , O'Dempsey Tim
Published: October 2013

Background.Dengue outbreaks are occurring with increasing frequency and intensity. Evidence-based epidemic preparedness and effective response are now a matter of urgency. Therefore, we have analysed national and municipal dengue outbreak response plans.Methods.Thirteen country plans from Asia, Latin America and Australia, and one international plan were obtained from the World Health Organization. The information was transferred to a data analysis matrix where information was extracted according to predefined and emerging themes and analysed for scope, inconsistencies, omissions, and usefulness.Findings.Outbreak response planning currently has a considerable number of flaws. Outbreak governance was weak with a lack of clarity of stakeholder roles. Late timing of responses due to poor surveillance, a lack of combining routine data with additional alerts, and lack of triggers for initiating the response weakened the functionality of plans. Frequently an outbreak was not defined, and early response mechanisms based on alert signals were neglected. There was a distinct lack of consideration of contextual influences which can affect how an outbreak detection and response is managed.Conclusion.A model contingency plan for dengue outbreak prediction, detection, and response may help national disease control authorities to develop their own more detailed and functional context specific plans.
The Human Urinary Proteome Fingerprint Database UPdb
Authors: Husi Holger , Barr Janice B. , Skipworth Richard J. E. , Stephens Nathan A. , Greig Carolyn A. , Wackerhage Henning , Barron Rona , Fearon Kenneth C. H. , Ross James A.
Published: October 2013

The use of human urine as a diagnostic tool has many advantages, such as ease of sample acquisition and noninvasiveness. However, the discovery of novel biomarkers, as well as biomarker patterns, in urine is hindered mainly by a lack of comparable datasets. To fill this gap, we assembled a new urinary fingerprint database. Here, we report the establishment of a human urinary proteomic fingerprint database using urine from 200 individuals analysed by SELDI-TOF (surface enhanced laser desorption ionisation-time of flight) mass spectrometry (MS) on several chip surfaces (SEND, HP50, NP20, Q10, CM10, and IMAC30). The database currently lists 2490 unique peaks/ion species from 1172 nonredundant SELDI analyses in the mass range of 1500 to 150000. All unprocessed mass spectrometric scans are available as “.xml” data files. Additionally, 1384 peaks were included from external studies using CE (capillary electrophoresis)-MS, MALDI (matrix assisted laser desorption/ionisation), and CE-MALDI hybrids. We propose to use this platform as a global resource to share and exchange primary data derived from MS analyses in urinary research.
PDE Modeling of a Microfluidic Thermal Process for Genetic Analysis Application
Authors: Banaei Khosroushahi Reza , Marquez Horacio J. , Martinez-Quijada Jose , Backhouse Christopher J.
Published: October 2013

This paper details the infinite dimensional dynamics of a prototype microfluidic thermal process that is used for genetic analysis purposes. Highly effective infinite dimensional dynamics, in addition to collocated sensor and actuator architecture, require the development of a precise control framework to meet the very tight performance requirements of this system, which are not fully attainable through conventional lumped modeling and controller design approaches. The general partial differential equations describing the dynamics of the system are separated into steady-state and transient parts which are derived for a carefully chosen three-dimensional axisymmetric model. These equations are solved analytically, and the results are verified using an experimentally verified precise finite element method (FEM) model. The final combined result is a framework for designing a precise tracking controller applicable to the selected lab-on-a-chip device.
Parameters Controlling the Oxide Reduction during Sintering of Chromium Prealloyed Steel
Authors: Hrubovčáková Monika , Dudrová Eva , Hryha Eduard , Kabátová Margita , Harvanová Jarmila
Published: October 2013

Temperature intervals of oxide reduction processes during sintering of the Fe-3%Cr-0.5%Mo prealloyed powder using continuous monitoring of processing-exhaust gas composition (CO, CO2, and H2O) were identified and interpreted in relation to density (6.5–7.4 g/cm3), sintering temperature (1120 and 1200°C), heating and cooling rates (10 and 50°C/min), carbon addition (0.5/0.6/0.8%), type (10%H2-N2, N2), and purity (5.0 and 6.0) of the sintering atmosphere. The progress in reduction processes was evaluated by oxygen and carbon contents in sintered material and fracture strength values as well. Higher sintering temperature (1200°C) and density <7.0 g/cm3resulted in a relative decrease of oxygen content by more than 80%. The deterioration of microclimate purity of inner microvolumes of compacts shifted the thermodynamic equilibrium towards oxidation. It resulted in a closing of residual oxides inside interparticle necks. The reducing ability of the N2atmosphere can be improved by sintering in a graphite container. High density of 7.4 g/cm3achieved by double pressing indicated a negative effect on reduction processes due to restricted replenishment of the microclimate atmosphere with the processing gas. In terms of strength properties, carbon content should not be higher than ~0.45%.
Cardiac Safety of Diclofenac at a Single Dose in Ram
Authors: Er Ayse , Dik Burak , Corum Orhan , Cetin Gul
Published: October 2013

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs are frequently prescribed drug group in human and veterinary medicine. However, diclofenac, a traditional nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, related to cardiotoxicity is reported, and blood cardiac damage markers may increase within the first hours after damage. The aim of the current research was to determine the effect of diclofenac on the blood cardiac damage markers. Single dose of diclofenac (2.5 mg/kg, IM) was injected to 6 rams. Blood samples were collected in before (0 hour, control) and 6 hours after injection. Specific (troponin I, and creatine kinase‐MB) and nonspecific (lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase) blood cardiac damage marker concentrations, routine biochemical (hepatic damage, renal damage, lipid metabolism, glucose, and phosphorus) parameters, and hemogram values were measured. Diclofenac increased (P < 0.05) specific (troponin I) and nonspecific cardiac (lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase), hepatic (aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferase), and muscular (creatine kinase) damage markers and high density lipoprotein level, while it decreased (P < 0.05) low density lipoprotein level. Moreover, diclofenac decreased (P < 0.05) white blood cell counts and increased (P < 0.05) red blood cell counts. In conclusion, it may be stated that diclofenac shows slight cardiotoxicity, whereas it may show potent hepatic and muscular damage effects at an intramuscularly single dose in sheep. Thereby, repeated injections of diclofenac may be more harmful in sheep.
Health Condition Evaluation of Cable-Stayed Bridge Driven by Dissimilarity Measures of Grouped Cable Forces
Authors: Dan Dan-Hui , Zhao Yi-Ming , Yang Tong , Yan Xing-Fei
Published: October 2013

An index system for the health-status evaluation of cable-stayed bridges is presented based on a set of dissimilarity measures (DMs) of the cable force of grouped cables. The DMs and their labels corresponding to health status derived by the serviceability limit states of a bridge are determined by the combination of the finite element method and the influence matrix method. The Monte-Carlo method is used to determine the rational values of thresholds of proposed DMs. By comparing the indices with the thresholds, the holistic health status assessment of a cable-stayed bridge can be easily and reasonably determined. Based on eight years of historical data on the cable forces investigated from a real cable-stayed bridge, the proposed methods are applied to evaluate the health status of this cable-stayed bridge. The results show the validity of the proposed methods.
Matrix Mappings on the Domains of Invertible Matrices
Authors: Altun Muhammed
Published: October 2013

We focus on sequence spaces which are matrix domains of Banach sequence spaces. We show that the characterization of a random matrix operator , where and are matrix domains with invertible matrices and , can be reduced to the characterization of the operator . As an application, the necessary and sufficient conditions for the matrix operators between invertible matrix domains of the classical sequence spaces and norms of these operators are given.
Modeling and Simulation of Turbulent Flows through a Solar Air Heater Having Square‐Sectioned Transverse Rib Roughness on the Absorber Plate
Authors: Yadav Anil Singh , Bhagoria J. L.
Published: October 2013

Solar air heater is a type of heat exchanger which transforms solar radiation into heat energy. The thermal performance of conventional solar air heater has been found to be poor because of the low convective heat transfer coefficient from the absorber plate to the air. Use of artificial roughness on a surface is an effective technique to enhance the rate of heat transfer. A CFD‐based investigation of turbulent flow through a solar air heater roughened with square‐sectioned transverse rib roughness has been performed. Three different values of rib‐pitch (P) and rib‐height (e) have been taken such that the relative roughness pitch (P/e = 14.29) remains constant. The relative roughness height, e/D, varies from 0.021 to 0.06, and the Reynolds number, Re, varies from 3800 to 18,000. The results predicted by CFD show that the average heat transfer, average flow friction, and thermohydraulic performance parameter are strongly dependent on the relative roughness height. A maximum value of thermohydraulic performance parameter has been found to be 1.8 for the range of parameters investigated. Comparisons with previously published work have been performed and found to be in excellent agreement.
Screening of 50 Cypriot Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorders or Autistic Features Using 400K Custom Array-CGH
Authors: Kousoulidou Ludmila , Moutafi Maria , Nicolaides Paola , Hadjiloizou Stavros , Christofi Christos , Paradesiotou Anna , Anastasiadou Violetta , Sismani Carolina , Patsalis Philippos C.
Published: October 2013

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) comprise a distinct entity of neurodevelopmental disorders with a strong genetic component. Despite the identification of several candidate genes and causative genomic copy number variations (CNVs), the majority of ASD cases still remain unresolved. We have applied microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH) using Agilent 400K custom array in the first Cyprus population screening for identification of ASD-associated CNVs. A cohort of 50 ASD patients (G1), their parents (G2), 50 ethnically matched normal controls (G3), and 80 normal individuals having children with various developmental and neurological conditions (G4) were tested. As a result, 14 patients were found to carry 20 potentially causative aberrations, two of which werede novo. Comparison of the four population groups revealed an increased rate of rare disease-associated variants in normal parents of children with autism. The above data provided additional evidence, supporting the complexity of ASD aetiology in comparison to other developmental disorders involving cognitive impairment. Furthermore, we have demonstrated the rationale of a more targeted approach combining accurate clinical description with high-resolution population-oriented genomic screening for defining the role of CNVs in autism and identifying meaningful associations on the molecular level.
Recognition of FT-IR Data Cuscutae Semen, Japanese Dodder, and Sinapis Semen Using Discrete Wavelet Transformation and RBF Networks
Authors: Hu Tao , Weng Xuexiang , Xu Lishan , Cheng Cungui , Yu Peng
Published: October 2013

Horizontal attenuation total reflection Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (HATR-FT-IR) studies on cuscutae semen and its confusable varieties Japanese dodder and sinapis semen combined with discrete wavelet transformation (DWT) and radial basis function (RBF) neural networks have been conducted in order to classify them. DWT is used to decompose the FT-IRs of cuscutae semen, Japanese dodder, and sinapis semen. Two main scales are selected as the feature extracting space in the DWT domain. According to the distribution of cuscutae semen, Japanese dodder, and sinapis semen’s FT-IRs, three feature regions are determined at detail 3, and two feature regions are determined at detail 4 by selecting two scales in the DWT domain. Thus five feature parameters form the feature vector. The feature vector is input to the RBF neural networks to train so as to accurately classify the cuscutae semen, Japanese dodder, and sinapis semen. 120 sets of FT-IR data are used to train and test the proposed method, where 60 sets of data are used to train samples, and another 60 sets of FT-IR data are used to test samples. Experimental results show that the accurate recognition rate of cuscutae semen, Japanese dodder, and sinapis semen is average of 100.00%, 98.33%, and 100.00%, respectively, following the proposed method.
An Improved Centralized Cognitive Radio Network Spectrum Allocation Algorithm Based on the Allocation Sequence
Authors: Zhao Jianli , Yuan Jinsha
Published: October 2013

The demand of the wireless communications service is increasing in recent years, and the demand of the wireless communication rate is increasing too. However, the static spectrum allocation mechanism results in lots of free spectrum resources in space, and the spectrum is wasted. The cognitive radio technology with intelligent searching and efficient utilization of the idle spectrum resources just provides the opportunity to use the free spectrum resources. Thus, the spectrum allocation technology of the cognitive radio has also been more and more broadly concerned. In order to avoid the interference, a mathematical model of spectrum allocation for cognitive radio spectrum allocation algorithm is established through a graph theory. The spectrum allocation algorithms with different allocation objectives based on graph theory are studied according to the different network structures. After the basic ideas and allocation processes of these algorithms are described, a centralized network spectrum allocation algorithm based on the allocation sequence is proposed. Simulation results show that the improved algorithm can significantly reduce the time overhead and can have better fairness compared with other existing Collaborative-Max-Sum-Reward (CSUM), Collaborative-Max-Min-Reward (CMIN), and Collaborative-Max-Proportional-Fair (CFAIR) algorithms under the same design criterion.
Comparison of the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Activity Questionnaire and the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index in a Black Barbadian Population
Authors: Quimby Kim R. , Flower Cindy , Hambleton Ian R. , Landis R. Clive , Hennis Anselm J. M.
Published: October 2013

In Barbados, use of the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) is limited by the unavailability of serologic markers. The SLE Activity Questionnaire (SLAQ) excludes laboratory measurements and is therefore more accessible. Here, we investigate the agreement between the SLAQ, the SLEDAI, and the physician global assessment (PGA). A pilot of 32 participants completed the SLAQ and SLEDAI. The tools were compared (1) in their original format, (2) limited to common indices, and (3) limited to the same patient recall period. We compared the proportions of persons reporting disease activity and the concordance between calculated activity scores for SLAQ versus SLEDAI and for SLAQ versus PGA. Seventy-eight percent versus 59% of participants reported disease activity with the original SLEDAI versus SLAQ, respectively. The relationship was reversed to 22% versus 59% when the matched item tools were compared. Concordance was 0.62 (95% CI 0.42–0.81) between the original scores, 0.70 (0.57–0.83) when restricted by matched items, and 0.72 (0.59–0.84) when further restricted by recall period. Concordance between the SLAQ and PGA was 0.56 (0.32–0.80). Reversal of the disease activity percentage in the matched items comparison highlights the inadequacy of tools that exclude laboratory measurements and suggests that the subjective nature of SLAQ may contribute to over-reporting. Further work is needed to produce a robust disease activity tool apt for resource-constrained environments.
FEM Analysis of Dynamic Response of Buried Fiber Reinforced Plastic Matrix Pipe under Seismic Load
Authors: Lei Xu , Zhicai Ye , Qingwen Ren , Lei Zhang
Published: October 2013

Fiber reinforced plastic matrix pipes have been widely used in the field of civil engineering and hydraulic engineering. In general, the existing FEM models used in the seismic analysis of buried pipes do not fully consider the dynamic interaction between pipe and surrounding soil, and most of the models are proposed for homogeneous pipe. Therefore, the existing models cannot be directly applied to the seismic analysis of fiber reinforced plastic matrix pipes with laminated structure. Based on the aforementioned, the FEM model for the seismic analysis of fiber reinforced plastic matrix pipes is presented by taking consideration of the laminated structure, the complicated dynamic interaction between pipe and surrounding soil, and the propagation of seismic scattering waves from finite field to infinite field. The analysis results of a project case show that the proposed model can reasonably analyse the dynamic response of buried fiber reinforced plastic matrix pipes under seismic load.
The Value of Pain Coping Constructs in Subcategorising Back Pain Patients according to Risk of Poor Outcome
Authors: Harland Nicholas , Ryan Cormac Gerard
Published: October 2013

Background.Subcategorising patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) could improve patient outcomes and facilitate prioritisation of treatment resources.Objective.This study aimed to develop a subcategorising method for individuals with CLBP using the Coping Strategies Questionnaire 24 (CSQ24) and to investigate the methods potential validity.Methods.196 patients were recruited from a physiotherapy outpatients department. All participants completed a battery of questionnaires before and after treatment including the CSQ24 and a measure of pain, disability, and mood. At discharge participants also completed a global subjective outcomes scale consisting of a 6-point Likert scale. All participants received usual physiotherapy.Results.Cut-off values for the CSQ24 were calculated using triangulation of the findings from three different statistical methods. Cut-off values were identified for the Catastrophising and Cognitive Coping subscales of the CSQ24. Participants were categorised into low, medium, and high risk of a poor outcome. The cut-off values for these were ≥21 on Cognitive Coping and ≤9 on Catastrophising for low risk and ≤15 on Cognitive Coping for high risk, with all other patients being classified as being at moderate risk.Conclusion.Further validation is required before this approach can be recommended for clinical practice.
Sliding-Mode Control of a Dc/Dc Postfilter for Ripple Reduction and Efficiency Improvement in POL Applications
Authors: Serna-Garcés S. I. , Jiménez R. E. , Ramos-Paja C. A.
Published: October 2013

This paper proposes an active postfilter based on two Buck converters, connected in parallel, operating in complementary interleaving. In such a configuration the ripple in the load current could be virtually eliminated to improve the power quality in comparison with classical Point-Of-Load (POL) regulators based on a single Buck converter. The postfilter is designed to isolate the load from the main Buck regulator, leading to the proposed three-converter structure named BuckPS. The correct operation of the postfilter is ensured by means of a sliding-mode controller. Finally, the proposed solution significantly reduces the current harmonics injected into the load, and at the same time, it improves the overall electrical efficiency. Such characteristics are demonstrated by means of analytical results and illustrated using numerical results.
Ego and Spiritual Transcendence: Relevance to Psychological Resilience and the Role of Age
Authors: Hanfstingl Barbara
Published: October 2013

The paper investigates different approaches of transcendence in the sense of spiritual experience as predictors for general psychological resilience. This issue is based on the theoretical assumption that resilience does play a role for physical health. Furthermore, there is a lack of empirical evidence about the extent to which spirituality does play a role for resilience. As potential predictors for resilience, ego transcendence, spiritual transcendence, and meaning in life were measured in a sample of 265 people. The main result of a multiple regression analysis is that, in the subsample with people below 29 years, only one rather secular scale that is associated with ego transcendence predicts resilience, whereas for the older subsample of 29 years and above, spiritual transcendence gains both a positive (oneness and timelessness) and a negative (spiritual insight) relevance to psychological resilience. On the one hand, these results concur with previous studies that also found age-related differences. On the other hand, it is surprising that the MOS spiritual insight predicts psychological resilience negatively, the effect is increasing with age. One possible explanation concerns wisdom research. Here, an adaptive way of dealing with the age-related loss of control is assumed to be relevant to successful aging.