bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular Complications of HIV-Associated Immune Dysfunction
Authors: Zaaqoq Akram M. , Khasawneh Faisal A. , Smalligan Roger D.
Published: January 2015

Prolonged survival in HIV infection is accompanied by an increased frequency of non-HIV-related comorbidities. It is suggested that cardiovascular diseases (CVD) occur earlier among HIV-positive patients compared with HIV-negative patients, and at a higher rate. Several factors have been proposed which can be categorized into traditional and nontraditional risk factors. Immune dysfunction is a nontraditional risk factor that contributes significantly to cardiovascular pathology. Markers of inflammation are elevated in HIV-infected patients, and elevations in markers such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, D-dimer, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) have been associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease. However, the data currently suggest the most practical advice is to start antiretroviral therapy early and to manage traditional risk factors for CVD aggressively. A better understanding of the mechanisms of CVD in this population and further efforts to modify chronic inflammation remain an important research area.
Spasticity and Its Contribution to Hypertonia in Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Bar-On Lynn , Molenaers Guy , Aertbeliën Erwin , Van Campenhout Anja , Feys Hilde , Nuttin Bart , Desloovere Kaat
Published: January 2015

Spasticity is considered an important neural contributor to muscle hypertonia in children with cerebral palsy (CP). It is most often treated with antispasticity medication, such as Botulinum Toxin-A. However, treatment response is highly variable. Part of this variability may be due to the inability of clinical tests to differentiate between the neural (e.g., spasticity) and nonneural (e.g., soft tissue properties) contributions to hypertonia, leading to the terms “spasticity” and “hypertonia” often being used interchangeably. Recent advancements in instrumented spasticity assessments offer objective measurement methods for distinction and quantification of hypertonia components. These methods can be applied in clinical settings and their results used to fine-tune and improve treatment. We reviewed current advancements and new insights with respect to quantifying spasticity and its contribution to muscle hypertonia in children with CP. First, we revisit what is known about spasticity in children with CP, including the various definitions and its pathophysiology. Second, we summarize the state of the art on instrumented spasticity assessment in CP and review the parameters developed to quantify the neural and nonneural components of hypertonia. Lastly, the impact these quantitative parameters have on clinical decision-making is considered and recommendations for future clinical and research investigations are discussed.
Spontaneous Forniceal Rupture in Pregnancy
Authors: Upputalla Roshni , Moore Robert M. , Jim Belinda
Published: January 2015

Forniceal rupture is a rare event in pregnancy. We report a case of a 26-year-old primigravid woman who experienced a forniceal rupture at 23 weeks of gestation with no inciting cause except for pregnancy. Pregnancy is associated with ureteral compression due to increase in pelvic vasculature with the right ureter more dilated due to anatomic reasons. Hormones such as prostaglandins and progesterone render the ureter more distensible to allow for pressure build-up and an obstructive picture at the collecting system. We will discuss physiologic changes in pregnancies that predispose to this uncommon phenomenon and the most up-to-date management strategies.
Preliminary Efficacy of Adapted Responsive Teaching for Infants at Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Community Sample
Authors: Baranek Grace T. , Watson Linda R. , Turner-Brown Lauren , Field Samuel H. , Crais Elizabeth R. , Wakeford Linn , Little Lauren M. , Reznick J. Steven
Published: January 2015

This study examined the (a) feasibility of enrolling 12-month-olds at risk of ASD from a community sample into a randomized controlled trial, (b) subsequent utilization of community services, and (c) potential of a novel parent-mediated intervention to improve outcomes. The First Year Inventory was used to screen and recruit 12-month-old infants at risk of ASD to compare the effects of 6–9 months of Adapted Responsive Teaching (ART) versus referral to early intervention and monitoring (REIM). Eighteen families were followed for ~20 months. Assessments were conducted before randomization, after treatment, and at 6-month follow-up. Utilization of community services was highest for the REIM group. ART significantly outperformed REIM on parent-reported and observed measures of child receptive language with good linear model fit. Multiphase growth models had better fit for more variables, showing the greatest effects in the active treatment phase, where ART outperformed REIM on parental interactive style (less directive), child sensory responsiveness (less hyporesponsive), and adaptive behavior (increased communication and socialization). This study demonstrates the promise of a parent-mediated intervention for improving developmental outcomes for infants at risk of ASD in a community sample and highlights the utility of earlier identification for access to community services earlier than standard practice.
Analysis of Iterative Learning Control for a Class of Linear Discrete-Time Switched Systems
Authors: Yang Xuan , Ruan Xiaoe
Published: January 2015

An iterative learning control scheme is applied to a class of linear discrete-time switched systems with arbitrary switching rules. The application is based on the assumption that the switched system repetitively operates over a finite time interval. By taking advantage of the super vector approach, convergence is discussed when noise is free and robustness is analyzed when the controlled system is disturbed by bounded noise. The analytical results manifest that the iterative learning control algorithm is feasible and effective for the linear switched system. To support the theoretical analysis, numerical simulations are made.
A Novel Anti-Histone H1 Monoclonal Antibody, SSV Monoclonal Antibody, Improves Lung Injury and Survival in a Mouse Model of Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Sepsis-Like Syndrome
Authors: Kusano Toru , Chiang Kuei-Chen , Inomata Masafumi , Shimada Yayoi , Ohmori Naoya , Goto Takeshi , Sato Shuji , Goto Shigeru , Nakano Toshiaki , Kawamoto Seiji , Takaoka Yuki , Shiraishi Norio , Noguchi Takayuki , Kitano Seigo
Published: January 2015

Background. Histones play important roles in both host defenses and inflammation related to microbial infection. A peptide mimotope (SSV) was identified from a novel histone H1 monoclonal antibody (16G9 mAb) that was shown to inhibit the mixed lymphocyte reaction. In the present study, an anti-SSV producing hybridoma was established. We investigated the effects of SSV mAb in a mouse acute inflammation model induced by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS).Methods. SSV mAb was generated and characterized. Mice were treated with SSV mAb or a control IgG antibody prior to LPS injection. Evaluation of survival rate and lung tissue on histological score was performed. The levels of inflammatory cytokines and histones H1, H3, and H4 in plasma and lung tissue were measured by ELISA.Results. Competitive ELISA revealed that SSV mAb binds to histone H1. SSV mAb improved lung injury and prolonged the survival of LPS-injected mice. Increased levels of histones H1, H3, and H4 and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) in plasma and lung tissue after LPS injection were ameliorated by SSV mAb.Conclusion. SSV mAb is shown to have anti-inflammatory activity and organ-protective effects, highlighting the importance of controlling histone H1 as well as H3 and H4 levels during inflammation.
Hyers-Ulam-Rassias Stability of Functional Differential Systems with Point and Distributed Delays
Authors: De la Sen M.
Published: January 2015

This paper investigates stability and asymptotic properties of the error with respect to its nominal version of a nonlinear time-varying perturbed functional differential system subject to point, finite-distributed, and Volterra-type distributed delays associated with linear dynamics together with a class of nonlinear delayed dynamics. The boundedness of the error and its asymptotic convergence to zero are investigated with the results being obtained based on the Hyers-Ulam-Rassias analysis.
An Endoscopic Endonasal Approach for Early-Stage Olfactory Neuroblastoma: An Evaluation of 2 Cases with Minireview of Literature
Authors: Yokoi Hidenori , Kodama Satoru , Kogashiwa Yasunao , Matsumoto Yuma , Ohkura Yasuo , Nakagawa Takayuki , Kohno Naoyuki
Published: January 2015

We describe the clinical findings in two patients with pathologically diagnosed olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) of the sinonasal area and the surgical methods used for its treatment. Using an endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) without dura resection, along with radiotherapy, we successfully treated ONB at the Kadish stage A. One of our patients, however, experienced tumor recurrence 24 years after open surgery with radiotherapy that was conducted at another hospital. This patient was no longer eligible for radiotherapy, and the tumor was therefore resected with dura resection using an EEA combined with duraplasty. The dura resection with duraplasty using fascia lata and a pedicled nasal septal flap was minimally invasive. As with surgery without duraplasty, a postoperative computed tomography (CT) examination revealed that EEA with duraplasty led to quick improvement of the postoperative inflammatory response as well as pneumocranium. Here, we investigated whether to modify the method of surgery depending upon the primary site of early-stage ONB. We suggest that, in early-stage ONB, an endoscopic endonasal approach is an effective and less invasive method. It is also advisable to perform dura mater resection of the lesion site despite the absence of obvious intracranial invasions in image findings.
The Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2‐Zeolite Composite for Degradation of Dye Using Synthetic UV and Jeddah Sunlight
Authors: Al-Harbi Laila M. , Kosa Samia A. , Abd El Maksod Islam H. , Hegazy Eman Z.
Published: January 2015

In this research different composites of impregnated TiO2 with LTA or FAU zeolites were used as different weight% ratio for photodegradation of organic dye. Normal laboratory UV‐lamps were used as a source of UV irradiation. In addition a setup of system of mirrors was used to collect real Jeddah sunlight. A comparison of UV and real sunlight photodegradation activity showed that the real sunlight enhances new centers of active sites exhibiting higher catalytic activity than that of UV irradiated samples.
Sweet Taste Receptor Signaling Network: Possible Implication for Cognitive Functioning
Authors: Welcome Menizibeya O. , Mastorakis Nikos E. , Pereverzev Vladimir A.
Published: January 2015

Sweet taste receptors are transmembrane protein network specialized in the transmission of information from special “sweet” molecules into the intracellular domain. These receptors can sense the taste of a range of molecules and transmit the information downstream to several acceptors, modulate cell specific functions and metabolism, and mediate cell-to-cell coupling through paracrine mechanism. Recent reports indicate that sweet taste receptors are widely distributed in the body and serves specific function relative to their localization. Due to their pleiotropic signaling properties and multisubstrate ligand affinity, sweet taste receptors are able to cooperatively bind multiple substances and mediate signaling by other receptors. Based on increasing evidence about the role of these receptors in the initiation and control of absorption and metabolism, and the pivotal role of metabolic (glucose) regulation in the central nervous system functioning, we propose a possible implication of sweet taste receptor signaling in modulating cognitive functioning.
Staged Hand-Assisted Bilateral Native Nephrectomy for Management of Posttransplant Polyuria in an Adult with Dent’s Disease
Authors: Montero Rosa M. , Hilton Rachel , Olsburgh Jonathon
Published: January 2015

Polyuria after kidney transplantation causes graft dysfunction and increased thrombotic risk. We present a case of a polyuric adult with Dent’s disease who underwent staged bilateral native nephrectomies, the first operation before transplant and the second four months after transplant. This led to improved allograft function maintained during four years of follow-up. The retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach was well tolerated and allowed continuation of peritoneal dialysis before transplantation. A staged approach helps regulate fluid balance perioperatively and may be tailored to individual need according to posttransplant urine output. This novel approach should be considered for polyuric patients with tubular dysfunction including Dent’s disease.
Enhancing the Decolorizing and Degradation Ability of Bacterial Consortium Isolated from Textile Effluent Affected Area and Its Application on Seed Germination
Authors: Mahmood Rashid , Sharif Faiza , Ali Sikander , Hayyat Muhammad Umar
Published: January 2015

A bacterial consortium BMP1/SDSC/01 consisting of six isolates was isolated from textile effected soil, sludge, and textile effluent from Hudiara drain near Nishat Mills Limited, Ferozepur Road, Lahore, Pakistan. It was selected because of being capable of degrading and detoxifying red, green, black, and yellow textile dyes. The pH and supplements were optimized to enhance the decolorization ability of the selected consortium. The results indicated that decolorizing ability of consortium for the red, green, black, and yellow dyes was higher as compared to individual strains. The consortium was able to decolorize 84%, 84%, 85%, 85%, and 82% of 200 ppm of red, green, black, yellow, and mixed dyes within 24 h while individual strain required 72 h. On supplementing urea, the consortium decolorized 87, 86, 89, 86, and 83%, respectively, while on supplementing sodium chloride the consortium decolorized 93, 94, 93, 94, and 89% of red, green, black, yellow, and mixed dyes, respectively, which was maximum while in the presence of ascorbic acid and ammonium chloride it showed intermediate results. The effect of untreated and treated dyes was investigated on Zea mays L. (maize) and Sorghum vulgare Pers. (sorghum). This study will help to promote an efficient biotreatment of textile effluents.
Inhibition of Quorum Sensing-Controlled Virulence Factors and Biofilm Formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Culture Extract from Novel Bacterial Species of Paenibacillus Using a Rat Model of Chronic Lung Infection
Authors: Alasil Saad Musbah , Omar Rahmat , Ismail Salmah , Yusof Mohd Yasim
Published: January 2015

Quorum sensing (QS) is a key regulator of virulence factors and biofilm formation in Gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Microorganisms that inhabit soil are of strategic importance in the discovery of compounds with anti-QS properties. The objective of the study was to test the culture extract of a taxonomically novel species of Paenibacillus strain 139SI for its inhibitory effects on the QS-controlled virulence factors and biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa both in vitro and in vivo. The Paenibacillus sp. culture extract was used to test its anti-QS effects on the LasA protease, LasB elastase, pyoverdin production, and biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa as well as evaluate its therapeutic effects on lung bacteriology, pathology, hematological profile, and serum antibody responses of experimental animals in a rat model of chronic lung infection. Results showed significant decrease in the activities of QS-controlled LasA protease, LasB elastase pyoverdin, and biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa caused by the culture extract. Moreover, the extract significantly prolonged the survival times of rats and facilitated the clearance of biofilm infections from infected lungs. In conclusion, the antiquorum sensing effects of culture extract from a novel species of Paenibacillus provide new insights to combat biofilm-associated infections.
Nutritional Markers and Body Composition in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Valtuille Rodolfo , Casos Maria Elisa , Fernandez Elmer Andres , Guinsburg Adrian , Marelli Cristina
Published: January 2015

The aims of this study were to analyse body composition, to detect the presence of undernutrition, and to establish a relationship between undernutrition and the biological markers routinely used as indicators of nutritional status in hemodialysis (HD) patients (pts). We used a body composition monitor (BCM) that expresses body weight in terms of lean tissue mass (LTM) and fat tissue mass (FTM) independent of hydration status. From nine HD units, 934 pts were included. Undernutrition was defined as having a lean tissue index (LTI = LTM/height2) below the 10th percentile of a reference population. Biochemical markers and parameters delivered by BCM were used to compare low LTI and normal LTI groups. Undernutrition prevalence was 58.8% of the population studied. Low LTI pts were older, were significantly more frequently overhydrated, and had been on HD for a longer period of time than the normal LTI group. FTI (FTI = FTM/ height2) was significantly higher in low LTI pts and increased according to BMI. LTI was not influenced by different BMI levels. Albumin and C-reactive protein correlated inversely (r=-0.28). However neither of them was statistically different when considering undernourished and normal LTI pts. Our BCM study was able to show a high prevalence of undernutrition, as expressed by low LTI. In our study, BMI and other common markers, such as albumin, failed to predict malnutrition as determined by BCM.
A Hyperheuristic for the Dial-a-Ride Problem with Time Windows
Authors: Urra Enrique , Cubillos Claudio , Cabrera-Paniagua Daniel
Published: January 2015

The dial-a-ride problem with time windows (DARPTW) is a combinatorial optimization problem related to transportation, in which a set of customers must be picked up from an origin location and they have to be delivered to a destination location. A transportation schedule must be constructed for a set of available vehicles, and several constraints have to be considered, particularly time windows, which define an upper and lower time bound for each customer request in which a vehicle must arrive to perform the service. Because of the complexity of DARPTW, a number of algorithms have been proposed for solving the problem, mainly based on metaheuristics such as Genetic Algorithms and Simulated Annealing. In this work, a different approach for solving DARPTW is proposed, designed, and evaluated: hyperheuristics, which are alternative heuristic methods that operate at a higher abstraction level than metaheuristics, because rather than searching in the problem space directly, they search in a space of low-level heuristics to find the best strategy through which good solutions can be found. Although the proposed hyperheuristic uses simple and easy-to-implement operators, the experimental results demonstrate efficient and competitive performance on DARPTW when compared to other metaheuristics from the literature.
An Efficient Explicit Finite-Difference Scheme for Simulating Coupled Biomass Growth on Nutritive Substrates
Authors: Sun G. F. , Liu G. R. , Li M.
Published: January 2015

A novel explicit finite-difference (FD) method is presented to simulate the positive and bounded development process of a microbial colony subjected to a substrate of nutrients, which is governed by a nonlinear parabolic partial differential equations (PDE) system. Our explicit FD scheme is uniquely designed in such a way that it transfers the nonlinear terms in the original PDE into discrete sets of linear ones in the algebraic equation system that can be solved very efficiently, while ensuring the stability and the boundedness of the solution. This is achieved through (1) a proper design of intertwined FD approximations for the diffusion function term in both time and spatial variations and (2) the control of the time-step through establishing theoretical stability criteria. A detailed theoretical stability analysis is conducted to reveal that our FD method is indeed stable. Our examples verified the fact that the numerical solution can be ensured nonnegative and bounded to simulate the actual physics. Numerical examples have also been presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed scheme. The present scheme is applicable for solving similar systems of PDEs in the investigation of the dynamics of biological films.
Electromechanical Impedance Analysis on Piezoelectric Smart Beam with a Crack Based on Spectral Element Method
Authors: Wang Dansheng , Song Hongyuan , Zhu Hongping
Published: January 2015

An electromechanical impedance (EMI) analysis of a piezoelectric smart beam with a crack is implemented in this paper. Spectral element method (SEM) is used to analyze the EMI response of the piezoelectric smart beam. In this analysis, the spectral element stiffness matrices of different beam segments are derived in this paper. The crack is simulated using spring models, and the EMI signatures of piezoelectric smart beam with and without crack are calculated using SEM, respectively. From the analysis results, it is found that the peak position and amplitude of the EMI signatures have significant changes with the change in crack depth, especially in higher frequency ranges. Different vibration modes of the piezoelectric smart beam are analyzed, and the effect of thickness of the adhesive layer on the admittance is also researched. An experimental study is also implemented to verify the validity of the analysis results using SEM.
Impact Assessment of Mercury Accumulation and Biochemical and Molecular Response of Mentha arvensis: A Potential Hyperaccumulator Plant
Authors: Manikandan R. , Sahi S. V. , Venkatachalam P.
Published: January 2015

The present study was focused on examining the effect of Hg oxidative stress induced physiochemical and genetic changes in M. arvensis seedlings. The growth rate of Hg treated seedlings was decreased to 56.1% and 41.5% in roots and shoots, respectively, compared to the control. Accumulation of Hg level in both roots and shoots was increased with increasing the concentration of Hg. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities were found to be increased with increasing the Hg concentration up to 20 mg/L; however, it was decreased at 25 mg/L Hg concentration. The POX enzyme activity was positively correlated with Hg dose. The changes occurring in the random amplification of ploymorphic DNA (RAPD) profiles generated from Hg treated seedlings included variations in band intensity, disappearance of bands, and appearance of new bands compared with the control seedlings. It was concluded that DNA polymorphisms observed with RAPD profile could be used as molecular marker for the evaluation of heavy metal induced genotoxic effects in plant species. The present results strongly suggested that Mentha arvensis could be used as a potential phytoremediator plant in mercury polluted environment.
Blood Transfusion, Serum Ferritin, and Iron in Hemodialysis Patients in Africa
Authors: Kouegnigan Rerambiah Leonard , Essola Rerambiah Laurence , Mbourou Etomba Armel , Mouguiama Rose Marlène , Issanga Phanie Brunelle , Biyoghe Axel Sydney , Batchilili Batchelili , Akone Assembe Sylvestre , Djoba Siawaya Joel Fleury
Published: January 2015

Background and Objectives. There is no data analyzing the outcome of blood transfusions and oral iron therapy in patients with kidneys failure in sub-Saharan Africa. The present study aimed to fill that gap and assess the value of ferritin in the diagnosis of iron overload and deficiency. Design. From January to February 2012, we prospectively studied 85 hemodialysis patients (78% of males and 22% of females aged 20 to 79 years) attending the Gabonese National Hemodialysis Centre. Results. Correlation studies showed (a) a strong positive linear relationship between the number of blood transfusions and high serum ferritin in hemodialysis patient (Spearman r:0.74; P value: 0.0001); (b) a weak association between the number of blood transfusions and serum iron concentrations (Spearman r:0.32; P value: 0.04); (c) a weak association between serum ferritin and serum iron (Spearman r:0.32; P value: 0.003). Also, the strength of agreement beyond chance between the levels of ferritin and iron in the serum was poor (κ=0.14). The prevalence of iron overload was 10.6%, whereas the prevalence of iron deficiency was 2.3%, comparing (1) patients with a maximum of one transfusion not on iron therapy; (2) patients with a maximum of one transfusion on iron therapy; (3) polytransfused patients not on iron therapy; and (4) polytransfused patients on oral iron therapy. The “Kruskal-Wallis test” showed that ferritin levels varied significantly between the groups (P value: 0.0001). Conclusion. Serum ferritin is not reliable as a marker of iron overload. For patients undergoing regular transfusion we recommend routine serum ferritin measurement and yearly measurement of LIC.
Incidence and Prognostic Impact ofDNMT3AMutations in Korean Normal Karyotype Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients
Authors: Park Sang Hyuk , Choi Jae-Cheol , Kim Shine Young , Yi Jongyoun , Oh Seung Hwan , Kim In-Suk , Kim Hyung-Hoi , Chang Chulhun Ludgerus , Lee Eun Yup , Song Moo-Kon , Shin Ho-Jin , Chung Joo Seop
Published: January 2015

Background.DNA methyltransferase 3A(DNMT3A) mutation was recently introduced as a prognostic indicator in normal karyotype (NK) AML and we evaluated the incidence and prognostic impact ofDNMT3Amutations in Korean NK AML patients.Methods. Total 67 NK AML patients diagnosed during the recent 10 years were enrolled.DNMT3Amutations were analyzed by direct sequencing and categorized into nonsynonymous variations (NSV), deleterious mutations (DM), and R882 mutation based onin silicoanalysis results. Clinical features and prognosis were compared with respect toDNMT3Amutation status.Results. Three novel (I158M, K219V, and E177V) and two known (R736H and R882H) NSVs were identified and the latter three were predicted as DMs.DNMT3ANSVs, DMs, and R882 mutation were identified in 14.9%–17.9%, 10.3%–10.4%, and 7.5% of patients, respectively.DNMT3Amutations were frequently detected inFLT3ITD mutated patients (P= 0.054, 0.071, and 0.071 in NSV, DMs, and R882 mutation, resp.) but did not affect clinical features and prognosis significantly.Conclusions. Incidences ofDNMT3ANSVs, DMs, and R882 mutation are 14.9%–17.9%, 10.3%–10.4%, and 7.5%, respectively, in Korean NK AML patients.DNMT3Amutations are associated withFLT3ITD mutations but do not affect clinical outcome significantly in Korean NK AML patients.
Discrete Optimal Control Method Based on the Optimal Strategy of Fishing
Authors: Zhang Lichun , Huang Qingdao
Published: January 2015

Consideration was given to the discrete optimal control method for the optimal fishing strategy. Our method is new and efficient for discrete optimal control problem, which is different from the other optimal methods such as the traditional variational method, the Pontryagin principle of maximum, and the dynamic programming. The basic construction of the model is the traditional logistic function relating to the growth of fry. The discrete optimal control method for optimal fishing strategy was used to construct the optimal rate of each fishing strategy; the main focus of our work is on the rigorous mathematical analysis of the optimal control problem. The analysis allows one to obtain the optimal initial investment amount of the fry and the optimal size of the total catch. Furthermore, when the initial investment amount of the fry is below or above the optimal value and the intrinsic growth rate of fishRis too small, we derive that fishing operations should not be started in the last few years to make the overall fishing amount optimal. At last, several typical examples are given to illustrate the obtained results.
Prevalence of Hyposalivation in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in a Brazilian Subpopulation
Authors: Leite Cristhiane Almeida , Galera Marcial Francis , Espinosa Mariano Martínez , de Lima Paulo Ricardo Teles , Fernandes Vander , Borges Álvaro Henrique , Dias Eliane Pedra
Published: January 2015

Background.Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory, multisystem, and autoimmune disease.Objective.The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of hyposalivation in SLE patients and evaluate factors associated.Methods.This is a cross-sectional study developed at the Cuiaba University General Hospital (UNIC-HGU), Mato Grosso, Brazil. The study population consisted of female SLE patients treated at this hospital from 06/2010 to 12/2012. Unstimulated salivary flow rates (SFRs) were measured. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed in all cases using a significance levelP<0.05.Results.The results showed that 79% of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus suffered from hyposalivation and that the disease activity and age in years were the factors that resulted in statistically significant differences.Conclusion.The activity of the disease, age >27 years, and the drugs used were factors associated with hyposalivation, resulting in a statistically significant decrease in saliva production.
Protective Effect of Sodium Nitroprusside on the Rat Small Intestine Transplanted Mucosa
Authors: Chen Feng-Hua , Li Ke , Yin Lu , Chen Chun-Qiu , Yan Zhao-Wen , Chen Gui-Ming
Published: January 2015

The intestinal mucosal epithelium is extremely susceptible to even brief periods of ischemia. Mucosal barrier damage, which is associated with ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury and consequently bacterial translocation, remains a major obstacle for clinically successful small bowel transplantation (SBT). Previous studies have demonstrated a protective effect of nitric oxide (NO) on other transplanted organs and NO mediated intestinal protection has also been reportedin vitro. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of sodium nitroprusside (SNP), NO donor, on graft mucosal histology and molecular markers of function after SBT in rats. We used SNP in different period of heterotopic SBT rats. The groups consisted of SBT, pre-SNP group, and post-SNP group. Interestingly, the pre-SNP graft samples exhibited less damage compared to the SBT and post-SNP samples. In addition, mucosal samples from the pre-SNP group showed higher Na+-K+-ATPase activity and higher levels of laminin expression compared to the SBT and post-SNP samples. The findings of the present study reveal that SNP given before graft ischemia/reperfusion injury has a protective effect on mucosal histology and molecular markers of function in the transplanted small intestine.
Systemic Corticosteroids Therapy in the Management of Acute Zonal Occult Outer Retinopathy
Authors: Chen San-Ni , Yang Chang-Hao , Yang Chung-May
Published: January 2015

Purpose. To report the efficacy of systemic steroid in treating acute zonal occult outer retinopathy (AZOOR).Methods. Retrospective study of 9 consecutive patients of AZOOR, who received systemic steroid therapy in Changhua Christian Hospital from 2005 to 2013, is presented. The duration of therapy was at least 3 months. Patients were evaluated with best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography (FA), indocyanine green angiography (ICG), visual field test, and electroretinography (ERG).Results. At the initial visit, visual field defect was noted in all patients and impaired visual acuity was noted in 4 eyes. OCT examination revealed disrupted ellipsoid zone at the macular area in 8 eyes and outer nuclear layer (ONL) loss in 1 eye. At the end of follow-up, all patients had improvement of visual field. The 4 eyes with initial impaired visual acuity had BCVA recovering to 20/20. Follow-up OCT showed partial or complete recovery of the ellipsoid zone at the macular area in the 8 eyes with initial disrupted ellipsoid zone and stable condition in the eye with ONL loss. The mean follow-up duration was47.11±26.65months.Conclusion. Visual improvement was achieved in most cases of recent onset AZOOR after systemic steroid treatment.
Meckel’s Diverticulitis as a Cause of an Acute Abdomen in the Second Trimester of Pregnancy: Laparoscopic Management
Authors: Pandeva Ivilina , Kumar Sumit , Alvi Atif , Nosib Hema
Published: January 2015

Introduction. Meckel’s diverticulitis is an extremely rare cause of an acute abdomen in pregnancy. Its clinical presentation tends to be rather unusual and therefore commonly delaying diagnosis. The surgical method of exploration can be either by laparoscopy or through an open incision.Case Report. We report a case of a 34-year-old, P1 with previous Caesarean section, who presented at 20 weeks with worsening right-sided abdominal pain, distention, and peritonism. Ultrasound scan showed an area of a possibly thickened loop of bowel inconsistent with an appendicitis. The findings at laparoscopy were purulent fluid in the pelvis, a congested appendix, and inflamed Meckel’s diverticulum. An appendectomy and excision of the diverticulum was performed using stapler technique.Discussion. Meckel’s diverticulitis in pregnancy can have nonspecific presentation and poses difficulties for preoperative diagnosis. Delay in diagnosis and management poses significant maternal and fetal risks. The use of laparoscopy if the gestational age and uterine size permit its use allows a thorough exploration of the abdominal cavity and management of rarer and unexpected pathology. Laparoscopic management of acute abdomen in the midtrimester of pregnancy has been found to be safe and effective.
Late Developing Supernumeraries in a Case of Nonsyndromic Multiple Supernumerary Teeth
Authors: Bozkurt Mine , Bezgin Tugba , Tüzüner Öncül Ayşegül , Göçer Rukiye , Sarı Şaziye
Published: January 2015

Objective. This case report presents 3-year follow-up of a case of nonsyndromic multiple supernumerary teeth (NSMST) with 11 supernumerary teeth, 2 of which showed subsequent formation.Case Report. A 10-year-old girl was referred to the dental clinic with the chief complaint of delayed eruption. Radiographic examination showed 9 retained supernumerary teeth. The treatment plan consisted of extraction of the supernumerary teeth and associated primary teeth in order to allow the permanent teeth to erupt. After 2 years of follow-up, 2 additional supernumerary teeth were observed.Conclusion. Regular follow-up for late forming supernumeraries is crucial for NSMST cases.
A Three-Phase Top-k Query Based Distributed Data Collection Scheme in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Li Guorui , He Jingsha , Wang Cong
Published: January 2015

We propose a three-phase top-[Formula: see text] query based distributed data collection scheme which is designed for clustered or multisink wireless sensor networks. The proposed scheme consists of a distributed iterative hard thresholding algorithm and a three-phase top-[Formula: see text] query algorithm. In the distributed iterative hard thresholding algorithm, the cluster heads or sink nodes reconstruct the compressed data in a distributed and cooperative manner. Meanwhile, the top-[Formula: see text] query operation in the above algorithm is realized by pruning unnecessary elements among cluster heads or sink nodes in the three-phase top-[Formula: see text] query algorithm. Simulation results show that there is no obvious difference in the performance of data reconstruction between our proposed scheme and existing compressive sensing theory based data collection schemes. However, both the number of interactions and the amount of transmitted data among cluster heads or sink nodes can be effectively reduced in the proposed scheme. The performance of the proposed scheme is analyzed in detail in this paper to support the claims.
Decoupling Control Design for the Module Suspension Control System in Maglev Train
Authors: He Guang , Li Jie , Cui Peng
Published: January 2015

An engineering oriented decoupling control method for the module suspension system is proposed to solve the coupling issues of the two levitation units of the module in magnetic levitation (maglev) train. According to the format of the system transfer matrix, a modified adjoint transfer matrix based decoupler is designed. Then, a compensated controller is obtained in the light of a desired close loop system performance. Optimization between the performance index and robustness index is also carried out to determine the controller parameters. However, due to the high orders and complexity of the obtained resultant controller, model reduction method is adopted to get a simplified controller with PID structure. Considering the modeling errors of the module suspension system as the uncertainties, experiments have been performed to obtain the weighting function of the system uncertainties. By using this, the robust stability of the decoupled module suspension control system is checked. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed decoupling design method is validated by simulations and physical experiments. The results illustrate that the presented decoupling design can result in a satisfactory decoupling and better dynamic performance, especially promoting the reliability of the suspension control system in practical engineering application.
Adsorption of Atenolol on Kaolinite
Authors: Hu Yingmo , Fitzgerald Nicole M. , Lv Guocheng , Xing Xuebing , Jiang Wei-Teh , Li Zhaohui
Published: January 2015

In this study the adsorption of atenolol (AT), aβ-blocker, on kaolinite, a clay mineral of low surface charge, was investigated under varying initial AT concentration, equilibrium time, solution pH, ionic strength, and temperature conditions. The results showed that the amounts of AT uptake by kaolinite were close to its cation exchange capacity value and the AT adsorption was almost instantaneous, suggesting a surface adsorption. The adsorption was exothermic and the free energy of adsorption was small negative, indicating physical adsorption. The increase in ionic strength of the solution drastically reduced AT uptake on kaolinite. A significant reduction in AT uptake was found at solution pH below 5 or above 10. The FTIR results showed band shifting and disappearance for NH bending vibration and benzene ring skeletal vibration at 3360 and 1515 cm−1and band splitting at 1412 and 1240 cm−1attributed to C–N valence vibration coupled with NH bending vibrations and alkyl aryl ether linkage, suggesting the participation of NH, –O–, and benzene ring for AT adsorption on kaolinite.
Application of Vibrational Spectroscopy Supported by Theoretical Calculations in Identification of Amorphous and Crystalline Forms of Cefuroxime Axetil
Authors: Talaczyńska Alicja , Lewandowska Kornelia , Jelińska Anna , Garbacki Piotr , Podborska Agnieszka , Zalewski Przemysław , Oszczapowicz Irena , Sikora Adam , Kozak Maciej , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta
Published: January 2015

FT‐IR and Raman scattering spectra of cefuroxime axetil were proposed for identification studies of its crystalline and amorphous forms. An analysis of experimental spectra was supported by quantum‐chemical calculations performed with the use of B3LYP functional and 6‐31G(d,p) as a basis set. The geometric structure of a cefuroxime axetil molecule, HOMO and LUMO orbitals, and molecular electrostatic potential were also determined by using DFT (density functional theory). The benefits of applying FT‐IR and Raman scattering spectroscopy for characterization of drug subjected to degradation were discussed.
Removal of a Wire Brush Bristle from the Hypopharynx Using Suspension, Microscope, and Fluoroscopy
Authors: Naunheim Matthew R. , Dedmon Matthew M. , Mori Matthew C. , Sedaghat Ahmad R. , Dowdall Jayme R.
Published: January 2015

Wire brush bristles are an increasingly recognized hazard that can present as a foreign body in the aerodigestive tract. Due to their small size and tendency to become embedded in surrounding tissue, these small metallic bristles present a unique operative challenge to otolaryngologists. Here we present a case of a 40-year-old woman who underwent endoscopic extraction of a wire bristle from the posterior pharyngeal wall using suspension, microscopy, and C-arm fluoroscopy. We believe this is the first published case of an endoscopic removal of a buried foreign body in the hypopharynx using these methods of localization concurrently. By leveraging multiple techniques for visualization, surgeons can avoid open exploration while ensuring complete removal of the object. Additionally, this case highlights the importance of regulatory oversight and consumer awareness of the hazards of grill brushes.
Quantification of Patient and Equipment Handling for Nurses through Direct Observation and Subjective Perceptions
Authors: Poole Wilson Tiffany , Davis Kermit G. , Kotowski Susan E. , Daraiseh Nancy
Published: January 2015

Background. Musculoskeletal disorders have continued to plague nurses in hospitals and long-term care facilities. Low back and shoulder injuries are the most prevalent, frequently linked to patient handling activities. Exposure to patient handling has been predominantly quantified by subjective responses of nurses. Objective. To directly observe handling of patients and other medical equipment for nurses during a 12-hour work shift. Methods. Twenty nurses working in three different intensive care units at a Midwest teaching hospital were directly observed during 12-hour day shifts. Direct observation included documenting frequency and type of handling performed and whether lift assist devices were utilized. Two additional surveys were completed by nurses to assess current pain levels and perceptions of lifting being performed. The observed lifting was compared to the perceived lifting with simple inference statistics. Results. Nurses have a high prevalence of manually lifting patients and medical devices but limited use of lifting assist devices. Nurses handled patients 69 times per shift and medical equipment 6 times per shift, but less than 3% utilized a lift assist device. Nurses suffered from high levels of pain at the end of the shift, with the highest prevalence in the lower back, lower legs, and feet/ankles (all above 60%).
Caristi Type Selections of Multivalued Mappings
Authors: Vetro Calogero , Vetro Francesca
Published: January 2015

Multivalued mappings and related selection theorems are fundamental tools in many branches of mathematics and applied sciences. In this paper we continue this theory and prove the existence of Caristi type selections for generalized multivalued contractions on complete metric spaces, by using some classes of functions. Also we prove fixed point and quasi-fixed point theorems.
Development of Polymer Based Nanocomposites as a Marker of Cadmium in Complex Matrices
Authors: Asiri Abdullah M. , Akhtar Kalsoom , Seo Jongchul , Marwani Hadi M. , Kim Dowan , Han Haksoo , Khan Sher Bahadar
Published: January 2015

Poly(propylene carbonate)/β‐cyclodextrin (PPC‐BCD) nanocomposites were developed as effective extractor for a specific extraction and separation of cadmium(II) by use of inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectrometry. The selectivity of nanocomposites with different wt% of BCD (PPC‐BCD 0.5, PPC‐BCD 1, PPC‐BCD 3, PPC‐BCD 5, or PPC‐BCD 10) was investigated toward Cd(II). Based on selectivity and pH studies, Cd(II) was the most quantitatively adsorbed on PPC‐BCD 5 phase at pH 6, indicating that PPC‐BCD 5 was the most selective toward Cd(II) among other nanocomposites. On the basis of adsorption isotherm study, the superior adsorption capacity of PPC‐BCD 5 phase for Cd(II) was found to be 149.25 mg·g−1, following the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. The kinetic of adsorption for Cd(II) has been examined by pseudo‐first‐ and second‐order models. The kinetic exploration suggested a pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model for the adsorption of Cd(II) on the PPC‐BCD 5. Additionally, results of thermodynamic investigation demonstrated favorable spontaneous process for the adsorption mechanism of PPC‐BCD 5 toward Cd(II).
Human Herpesvirus-6 Pneumonitis around the Engraftment of Cord Blood Transplantation following Foscarnet Prophylaxis in a Patient with Acute Leukemia
Authors: Ishio Takashi , Endo Tomoyuki , Okada Kohei , Shigematsu Akio , Hashino Satoshi , Teshima Takanori
Published: January 2015

Human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) reactivation is sometimes observed in immunocompromised patients, especially after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The complications of HHV-6 reactivation in this setting are mainly recognized as HHV-6 encephalitis. We herein report the case of a patient who developed HHV-6 pneumonitis after cord blood transplantation (CBT). A 35-year-old male underwent CBT for T-cell/myeloid mixed phenotype acute leukemia and achieved neutrophil engraftment on day 31. He had received foscarnet as prophylaxis for HHV-6 reactivation. A computed tomography (CT) scan to evaluate the leukemic tumor showed bilateral interstitial pneumonitis on day 33, although he had no respiratory symptoms. The findings of the CT scan were consistent with those of HHV-6 pneumonitis that were reported previously. HHV-6 DNA, but no other pathogens, was detected in his bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. The patient was successfully treated with a therapeutic dose of foscarnet. This case indicates that performing a CT scan around the time of neutrophil engraftment can play an important role in detecting the early phase of HHV-6 pneumonia, and BAL should be considered if features consistent with HHV-6 pneumonitis are observed in patients with a risk of HHV-6 reactivation.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type II Secondary to Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Chen Hamilton , Tafazoli Sharwin
Published: January 2015

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain disorder characterized by severe pain and vasomotor and pseudomotor changes. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) of abdominal aortic aneurysms is a recent advance in vascular surgery that has allowed repair of AAA while offering reduced intensive care unit and hospital lengths of stay, reduced blood loss, fewer major complications, and more rapid recovery. Pseudoaneurysms are a rare complication of an EVAR procedure that may result in a wide range of complications. The present report examines CRPS type II as a novel consequence of pseudoaneurysm formation from brachial artery access in the EVAR procedure. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of CRPS type II presentation as sequelae of an EVAR procedure.
Finite-Time Stabilization of Uncertain Switched Positive Linear Systems with Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Yu Tianjian , Zhong Yanke , Chen Tefang , Chen Chunyang
Published: January 2015

This paper is concerned with finite-time stabilization (FTS) analysis for a class of uncertain switched positive linear systems with time-varying delays. First, a new definition of finite-time boundedness (FTB) is introduced for switched positive system. This definition can simplify FTS analysis. Taking interval and polytopic uncertainties into account, a robust state feedback controller is built such that the switched positive linear system is finite-time bounded. Finally, an example is employed to illustrate the validities of obtained results.