bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Nocturnal Enuresis and Its Associated Factors in Primary School and Preschool Children of Khorramabad in 2013
Authors: Bakhtiar Katayoun , Pournia Yadollah , Ebrahimzadeh Farzad , Farhadi Ali , Shafizadeh Fathollah , Hosseinabadi Reza
Published: October 2014

Background. Nocturnal enuresis refers to an inability to control urination during sleep. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of nocturnal enuresis and its associated factors in children in the city of Khorramabad.Materials and Methods. In this descriptive-analytic, cross-sectional study, 710 male and female children were divided into two groups with equal numbers. The samples were selected from the schools of Khorramabad using the multistage cluster and stratified random sampling methods based on the diagnostic criteria of DSM-IV. The data was analyzed using the logistic regression.Results. The results showed that 8% of the children had nocturnal enuresis, including 5.2% of primary nocturnal enuresis and 2.8% of secondary nocturnal enuresis. The prevalence of nocturnal enuresis in the boys (10.7%) was higher compared with that in the girls (5.4%) (P=0.009). There were statistically significant relationships between nocturnal enuresis and history of nocturnal enuresis in siblings (P=0.023), respiratory infections (P=0.036), deep sleep (P=0.007), corporal punishment at school (P=0.036), anal itching (P=0.043), and history of seizures (P=0.043).Conclusion. This study showed that the prevalence of nocturnal enuresis in the boys was higher compared with that in the girls.
COX-2 Inhibitors and Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wang Zhen , Chen Jun-qiang , Liu Jin-lu
Published: October 2014

The evidence that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is upregulated and plays an important role in carcinogenesis of gastric cancer has triggered the topic of COX-2 inhibitors as chemopreventive agents for gastric cancer. Studies find that COX-2 inhibitors are associated not only with chemoprophylactic effects, but also with chemotherapeutic potentials in gastric cancer. Both COX-dependent and COX-independent pathways have a role in the anticancer efficiency of COX-2 inhibitors. However, enthusiasm is thwarted by the potential toxicity, that is, gastrointestinal toxicity of nonselective COX-2 inhibitors and cardiovascular risk of selective COX-2 inhibitors. Therefore, more studies are needed to develop new targeted antitumor agents (such as prostaglandin E receptor antagonist) and to define fundamental questions such as optimal treatment regimens, integration of cotherapy, and careful selection of candidates.
Equivolumetric Evolution of Planar Curves
Authors: Moon Hwan Pyo
Published: October 2014

We present the equivolumetric evolution of planar curves, which is a new type of curvature dependent evolution for a flame propagation model. This evolution reflects the nonlinear contribution of the curvature of the front to the flame propagation speed. We also present some numerical results of the equivolumetric evolution using the level set method.
Bone Healing by Using Ilizarov External Fixation Combined with Flexible Intramedullary Nailing versus Ilizarov External Fixation Alone in the Repair of Tibial Shaft Fractures: Experimental Study
Authors: Popkov A. V. , Kononovich N. A. , Gorbach E. N. , Tverdokhlebov S. I. , Irianov Y. M. , Popkov D. A.
Published: October 2014

Purpose. Our research was aimed at studying the radiographic and histological outcomes of using flexible intramedullary nailing (FIN) combined with Ilizarov external fixation (IEF) versus Ilizarov external fixation alone on a canine model of an open tibial shaft fracture.Materials and Methods. Transverse diaphyseal tibial fractures were modelled in twenty dogs. Fractures in the dogs of group 1 (n=10) were stabilized with the Ilizarov apparatus while it was combined with FIN in group 2 (n=10).Results. On day 14, a bone tissue envelope started developing round the FIN wires. Histologically, we revealed only endosteal bone union in group 1 while in group 2 the radiographs revealed complete bone union on day 28. At the same time-point, the areas of cancellous and mature lamellar bone tissues were observed in the intermediary area in group 2. The periosteal layers were formed of the trabeculae net of lamellar structure and united the bone fragments. The frame was removed at 30 days after the fracture in group 2 and after 45 days in group 1 according to bone regeneration.Conclusion. The combination of the Ilizarov apparatus and FIN accelerates bone repair and augments stabilization of tibial shaft fractures as compared with the use of the Ilizarov fixation alone.
Community Acquired Chronic Arthritis due toPseudomonas aeruginosain a Previously Healthy Pregnant Woman
Authors: Yilmaz Mesut , Arslan Ferhat , Mert Ali
Published: October 2014

Septic arthritis caused byPseudomonas aeruginosais uncommon in the immunocompetent population, despite its occurrence in younger patients with open injuries and in intravenous drug abusers. Here we report a case of septic arthritis caused byP. aeruginosa. This case is unique for several reasons. First, it is a case of septic arthritis in a pregnant woman with no traditional risk factors reported in the literature including history of prior traumatic events, hospitalisation, or chronic underlying disease. She was suspected of having transient osteoporosis associated with pregnancy to involve both hip joints. Second, this is the first reported case of a community acquired chronic septic arthritis due toP. aeruginosainvolving large joints of both upper and lower extremities. The patient was treated successfully with a combination of ceftazidime and amikacin for 4 weeks followed by oral ciprofloxacin 750 mg twice daily for 8 weeks.
Modeling Techniques for a Computational Efficient Dynamic Turbofan Engine Model
Authors: Roberts Rory A. , Eastbourn Scott M.
Published: October 2014

A transient two-stream engine model has been developed. Individual component models developed exclusively in MATLAB/Simulink including the fan, high pressure compressor, combustor, high pressure turbine, low pressure turbine, plenum volumes, and exit nozzle have been combined to investigate the behavior of a turbofan two-stream engine. Special attention has been paid to the development of transient capabilities throughout the model, increasing physics model, eliminating algebraic constraints, and reducing simulation time through enabling the use of advanced numerical solvers. The lessening of computation time is paramount for conducting future aircraft system-level design trade studies and optimization. The new engine model is simulated for a fuel perturbation and a specified mission while tracking critical parameters. These results, as well as the simulation times, are presented. The new approach significantly reduces the simulation time.
The Contribution of Immune and Glial Cell Types in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Duffy Samuel S. , Lees Justin G. , Moalem-Taylor Gila
Published: October 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system characterised by widespread areas of focal demyelination. Its aetiology and pathogenesis remain unclear despite substantial insights gained through studies of animal models, most notably experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). MS is widely believed to be immune-mediated and pathologically attributable to myelin-specific autoreactive CD4+ T cells. In recent years, MS research has expanded beyond its focus on CD4+ T cells to recognise the contributions of multiple immune and glial cell types to the development, progression, and amelioration of the disease. This review summarises evidence of T and B lymphocyte, natural killer cell, macrophage/microglial, astrocytic, and oligodendroglial involvement in both EAE and MS and the intercommunication and influence of each cell subset in the inflammatory process. Despite important advances in the understanding of the involvement of these cell types in MS, many questions still remain regarding the various subsets within each cell population and their exact contribution to different stages of the disease.
A Numerical Analysis Research on Earlier Behavior of Molten Droplet Covered with Vapor Film at the Stage of Triggering and Propagation in Steam Explosion
Authors: Zhong Mingjun , Li Yankai , Lin Meng , Yuan Minghao , Yang Yanhua
Published: October 2014

When the molten fuel with high temperature falls into the cavity water, it will be dispersed into droplets which are covered with vapor films due to the rapid heat transfer with phase transition. This situation cannot be simply described by liquid-liquid or gas-liquid systems. And there are no sufficient experimental studies on the behavior of droplet covered with vapor film because of the rapid reaction and the difficulty in capture of the film configuration. In this paper, a multiphase code with the volume of fluid (VOF) method is used to simulate the earlier behavior of droplet when vapor film exits. The earlier behavior is defined as behavior of the droplet before its disintegration. Thermal effect and pure hydrodynamic effect are, respectively, considered. The simulation results indicate that the film thickness and material density have significant effect on the earlier behavior of droplet. The situation assumed in Ciccarelli and Frost’s model (1994) is observed in current simulation of earlier thermal droplet behavior. The effect of triggering pressure pulse on earlier hydrodynamic behavior is also discussed and it indicates that vapor film has little effect on the hydrodynamic droplet deformation when the intensity of the pressure pulse is very high.
Nonconvex Economic Dispatch Using Particle Swarm Optimization with Time Varying Operators
Authors: Jadoun Vinay Kumar , Gupta Nikhil , Niazi K. R. , Swarnkar Anil
Published: October 2014

This paper presents a particle swarm optimization (PSO) to solve hard combinatorial constrained optimization problems such as nonconvex and discontinuous economic dispatch (ED) problem of large thermal power plants. Several measures have been suggested in the control equation of the classical PSO by modifying its operators for better exploration and exploitation. The inertia operator of the PSO is modulated by introducing a new truncated sinusoidal function. The cognitive and social behaviors are dynamically controlled by suggesting new exponential constriction functions. The overall methodology effectively regulates the velocity of particles during their flight and results in substantial improvement in the classical PSO. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been tested for economic load dispatch of three standard test systems considering various operational constraints like valve-point loading effect, prohibited operating zones (POZs), network power loss, and so forth. The application results show that the proposed PSO method is very promising.
A Quantitative Method to Monitor Reactive Oxygen Species Production by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance in Physiological and Pathological Conditions
Authors: Mrakic-Sposta Simona , Gussoni Maristella , Montorsi Michela , Porcelli Simone , Vezzoli Alessandra
Published: October 2014

The growing interest in the role of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and in the assessment of oxidative stress in health and disease clashes with the lack of consensus on reliable quantitative noninvasive methods applicable. The study aimed at demonstrating that a recently developed Electron Paramagnetic Resonance microinvasive method provides direct evidence of the “instantaneous” presence of ROS returning absolute concentration levels that correlate with “a posteriori” assays of ROS-induced damage by means of biomarkers. The reliability of the choice to measure ROS production rate in human capillary blood rather than in plasma was tested (step I). A significant (P<0.01) linear relationship between EPR data collected on capillary blood versus venous blood (R2=0.95), plasma (R2=0.82), and erythrocytes (R2=0.73) was found. Then (step II) ROS production changes of various subjects’ categories, young versus old and healthy versus pathological at rest condition, were found significantly different (range 0.0001–0.05Plevel). The comparison of the results with antioxidant capacity and oxidative damage biomarkers concentrations showed that all changes indicating increased oxidative stress are directly related to ROS production increase. Therefore, the adopted method may be an automated technique for a lot of routine in clinical trials.
Diversity of Biscogniauxia mediterranea within Single Stromata on Cork Oak
Authors: Henriques Joana , Nóbrega Filomena , Sousa Edmundo , Lima Arlindo
Published: October 2014

Charcoal canker, caused by the fungus Biscogniauxia mediterranea, is one of the most frequent diseases of cork oak in Portugal. The pathogen has been considered a secondary invader that attacks only stressed hosts; however, in recent years, an increasing number of young trees exhibiting the disease symptoms have been recorded. A collection of monoascosporic cultures isolated from single stromata of B. mediterranea in cork oak from different locations was analyzed by means of microsatellite—Primed Polymerase Chain Reaction—using three microsatellite primers, in order to detect the genetic variation of the population thus discussing its plasticity and ability to adapt to different conditions. The results showed a high level of genetic variability among isolates obtained from the same stroma, being impossible to distinguish isolates from individual stromata neither from different geographical location.
Treatment Efficacy of Electromyography versus Fiberscopy-Guided Botulinum Toxin Injection in Adductor Spasmodic Dysphonia Patients: A Prospective Comparative Study
Authors: Kim Jae Wook , Park Jae Hong , Park Ki Nam , Lee Seung Won
Published: October 2014

Introduction. This study prospectively evaluates and compares the treatment efficacy of botulinum toxin injection under electromyography guidance (EMG group) and percutaneous botulinum toxin injection under flexible fiberscopic guidance (fiberscopy group).Methods. Thirty patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD), who had never received treatment, were randomly allocated into EMG- or fiberscopy-guided botulinum toxin injections between March 2008 and February 2010. We assessed acoustic and aerodynamic voice parameters, and the voice handicap index (VHI) before injection and at 1, 3, and 6 months after injection.Results. The mean total dosage of botulinum toxin was similar for both groups: 1.7 ± 0.5 U for the EMG group and 1.8 ± 0.4 U for the fiberscopy group (P>0.05). There were no significant differences in outcomes between the two groups in either the duration of effectiveness or complications such as breathy voice and aspiration.Conclusion. Botulinum toxin injection under fiberscopic guidance is a viable alternative to EMG-guided botulinum toxin injection for the treatment of adductor spasmodic dysphonia when EMG equipment is unavailable.
Cobalt(II) Chloride Hexahydrate as an Efficient and Inexpensive Catalyst for the Preparation of Biscoumarin Derivatives
Authors: Nazarifar Mohammad Reza
Published: October 2014

Cobalt(II) chloride hexahydrate (CoCl2·6H2O) has been found to be an efficient catalyst for the one-pot synthesis of biscoumarin derivatives through a combination of aromatic aldehydes and 4-hydroxycoumarin in aqueous media at 70°C. Several types of aromatic aldehyde, containing electron-withdrawing groups as well as electron-donating groups, were used in the reaction and in all cases the desired products were synthesized successfully. The present approach offers remarkable advantages such as short reaction times, excellent yields, straightforward procedure, easy purification, environment friendliness, and low catalyst loading.
Synthesis, Characterization, DNA Interaction, and Antitumor Activities of La (III) Complex with Schiff Base Ligand Derived from Kaempferol and Diethylenetriamine
Authors: Wang Qin , Huang Yu , Zhang Jin-Sheng , Yang Xin-Bin
Published: October 2014

A novel La (III) complex, [LaL(H2O)3]NO3·3H2O, with Schiff base ligandLderived from kaempferol and diethylenetriamine, has been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, UV-visible,1H NMR, thermogravimetric analysis, and molar conductance measurements. The fluorescence spectra, circular dichroism spectra, and viscosity measurements and gel electrophoresis experiments indicated that the ligandLand La (III) complex could bind to CT-DNA presumably via intercalative mode and the La (III) complex showed a stronger ability to bind and cleave DNA than the ligandLalone. The binding constants (Kb) were evaluated from fluorescence data and the values ranged from 0.454 to 0.659 × 105L mol−1and 1.71 to 17.3 × 105L mol−1for the ligandLand La (III) complex, respectively, in the temperature range of 298–310 K. It was also found that the fluorescence quenching mechanism of EB-DNA by ligandLand La (III) complex was a static quenching process. In comparison to free ligandL, La (III) complex exhibited enhanced cytotoxic activities against tested tumor cell lines HL-60 and HepG-2, which may correlate with the enhanced DNA binding and cleaving abilities of the La (III) complex.
Positive Solutions of a Kind of Equations Related to the Laplacian andp-Laplacian
Authors: Zhang Fangfang , Liang Zhanping
Published: October 2014

Positive solutions of a kind of equations related to the Laplacian andp-Laplacian on a bounded domain inRNwithN⩾1are studied by using variational method. A sufficient condition of the existence of positive solutions is characterized by the eigenvalues of linear and another nonlinear eigenvalue problems.
A Case of Misdiagnosed Cesarean Scar Pregnancy with a Viable Birth at 28 Weeks
Authors: Nukaga Sakiko , Aoki Shigeru , Kurasawa Kentaro , Takahashi Tsuneo , Hirahara Fumiki
Published: October 2014

We report our experience with a case of presumptive cesarean scar pregnancy, based on detection of a gestational sac (GS) in early pregnancy at the site of a previous cesarean scar. The GS grew into the uterine cavity as the pregnancy progressed, showing an ultrasound image similar to that of a normal pregnancy. Thus, the pregnancy continued, resulting in a viable birth at 28 weeks of gestation. Cesarean scar pregnancy is classified as myometrial implantation or implantation growth into the uterine cavity. In the latter type, the gestational sac moves upward with increasing gestational weeks and it shows the same ultrasound image as a normal pregnancy. Therefore, the diagnosis must be made in the early pregnancy.
In VitroEvaluation of the Antimicrobial Efficacy of Four Endodontic Biomaterials againstEnterococcus faecalis,Candida albicans, andStaphylococcus aureus
Authors: Nirupama Duddi Narendra , Nainan Mohan Thomas , Ramaswamy Rajendran , Muralidharan Sethumadhavan , Usha Hulimangala Hosakote Lingareddy , Sharma Roshni , Gupta Soham
Published: October 2014

Root canal sealers that possess good antimicrobial property can prevent residual and recurrent infection and contribute to successful endodontic therapy. This study evaluated the antimicrobial activity of four endodontic sealers, AH Plus, Tubliseal EWT, EndoRez, and iRoot SP, against three different microorganisms,E. faecalis, C. albicans, andS. aureus, by direct contact test. 10 μL microbial suspensions were allowed to directly contact the four endodontic sealers for 1 hr at 37°C. Subsequently microbial growth was measured spectrophotometrically every 30 min for 18 hours. The microbial suspensions were simultaneously tested to determine the antimicrobial effect of components which are capable of diffusing into the medium. The results revealed that AH Plus and iRootSP had significantly higher antimicrobial activity againstE. faecalis. AH Plus and Tubliseal EWT showed significantly higher antimicrobial activity againstC. albicansandS. aureuscompared to iRoot SP and EndoRez. EndoRez showed the least antimicrobial activity against all the three microorganisms. Inhibition of microbial growth is related to the direct contact of microorganisms with the sealers. In conclusion AH Plus had significantly higher antimicrobial activity againstE. faecalis, C. albicans, andS. aureus.
Construction of New Exact Solutions for the (3 + 1)‐Dimensional Burgers System
Authors: Li Zitian
Published: October 2014

By means of a variable separation method and a generalized direct ansätz function approach, new exact solutions including cross kink‐wave solutions, doubly periodic kinky‐wave solutions, and breather type of two‐solitary wave solutions for the (3 + 1)‐dimensional Burgers system are obtained. Moreover, the mechanical features are also investigated.
Reporting Misconduct of a Coworker to Protect a Patient: A Comparison between Experienced Nurses and Nursing Students
Authors: Mansbach Abraham , Kushnir Talma , Ziedenberg Hana , Bachner Yaacov G.
Published: October 2014

Purpose. Whistleblowing is the reporting of illegal, immoral, or illegitimate practices to persons or organizations that may affect the action. The current study compares experienced nurses to nursing students regarding their willingness to blow the whistle to protect a patient’s interests.Methods. 165 participants were divided into two groups: 82 undergraduate nursing students and 83 experienced nurses. Participants responded to two vignettes that described a colleague’s and a manager’s misconduct at work.Results. The nursing students perceived the severity of the misconduct significantly lower compared to the experienced nurses. The nursing students also ranked the internal and external whistleblowing indices higher than the nurses, but the differences did not reach statistical significance. For each of the examined internal and external indices, professional experience was found to be significant in multivariate regression analyses.Conclusions. Even though nursing students perceived the severity of the misconduct significantly lower than the experienced nurses, the students demonstrated a greater readiness to blow the whistle, both internally and externally. Recommendations for handling comparable situations are offered.
Correlation of High-Molecular-Weight Adiponectin and Leptin Concentrations with Anthropometric Parameters and Insulin Sensitivity in Newborns
Authors: Zheng Jia , Xiao Xinhua , Zhang Qian , Mao Lili , Li Ming , Yu Miao , Xu Jianping , Wang Ying
Published: October 2014

Objective. High-molecular-weight adiponectin (HMW-adiponectin) and leptin are two important adipokines. The aim of this study was to examine the association between the two adipokines and anthropometric measurements of neonates at birth. Furthermore, we would like to explore whether HMW-adiponectin and leptin correlate with insulin sensitivity in neonates.Methods. Venous cord blood samples were obtained from 266 full-term healthy neonates consecutively born at Peking Union Medical College Hospital. HMW-adiponectin, leptin, blood glucose, and insulin concentrations were measured.Results. HMW-adiponectin and leptin were significantly higher in females compared with males (P=0.031andP=0.000, resp.). Univariate correlation analysis showed that leptin concentrations in cord blood were positively associated with gestational age, birth weight, body length, ponderal index, placenta weight, insulin, and insulin sensitivity (allP<0.001). However, there was no correlation between cord blood HMW-adiponectin levels and foetal anthropometric measurements or foetal insulin sensitivity indicators (allP>0.05). Multivariate linear regression analysis indicated that leptin (B=-0.126,P=0.045) in cord blood was independently associated with insulin sensitivity.Conclusions. Leptin concentrations, but not HMW-adiponectin, were positively associated with foetal anthropometric measurements. Leptin concentrations are significantly associated with foetal insulin sensitivity, and there were no significant correlations between HMW-adiponectin levels and foetal insulin sensitivity.
New Formulae for the High-Order Derivatives of Some Jacobi Polynomials: An Application to Some High-Order Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Abd-Elhameed W. M.
Published: October 2014

This paper is concerned with deriving some new formulae expressing explicitly the high-order derivatives of Jacobi polynomials whose parameters difference is one or two of any degree and of any order in terms of their corresponding Jacobi polynomials. The derivatives formulae for Chebyshev polynomials of third and fourth kinds of any degree and of any order in terms of their corresponding Chebyshev polynomials are deduced as special cases. Some new reduction formulae for summing some terminating hypergeometric functions of unit argument are also deduced. As an application, and with the aid of the new introduced derivatives formulae, an algorithm for solving special sixth-order boundary value problems are implemented with the aid of applying Galerkin method. A numerical example is presented hoping to ascertain the validity and the applicability of the proposed algorithms.
Estimation of Displacement and Rotation by Magnetic Tactile Sensor Using Stepwise Regression Analysis
Authors: Nakamoto Hiroyuki , Wakabayashi Taketo , Kobayashi Futoshi , Kojima Fumio
Published: October 2014

The human is covered with soft skin and has tactile receptors inside. The skin deforms along a contact surface. The tactile receptors detect the mechanical deformation. The detection of the mechanical deformation is essential for the tactile sensation. We propose a magnetic type tactile sensor which has a soft surface and eight magnetoresistive elements. The soft surface has a permanent magnet inside and the magnetoresistive elements under the soft surface measure the magnetic flux density of the magnet. The tactile sensor estimates the displacement and the rotation on the surface based on the change of the magnetic flux density. Determination of an estimate equation is difficult because the displacement and the rotation are not geometrically decided based on the magnetic flux density. In this paper, a stepwise regression analysis determines the estimate equation. The outputs of the magnetoresistive elements are used as explanatory variables, and the three-axis displacement and the two-axis rotation are response variables in the regression analysis. We confirm the regression analysis is effective for determining the estimate equations through simulation and experiment. The results show the tactile sensor measures both the displacement and the rotation generated on the surface by using the determined equation.
Pain Perception and Anxiety Levels during Menstrual Cycle Associated with Periodontal Therapy
Authors: Fatima Nikhat , Babu P. Raja , Sisinty Vidya Sagar , Tarakji Bassel
Published: October 2014

Objectives. To compare the pain perception and anxiety levels of female patients undergoing scaling and root planing during menstrual (perimenstrual) period with those observed during postmenstrual period.Materials and Methods. This was a single blind study, with a split-mouth design. Forty-four women with chronic periodontitis with regular menstrual cycles were subjected to complete Corah’s Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) during their first debridement visit. Patients were randomly selected to undergo their first debridement visit during either their menstrual or postmenstrual period. Scaling was performed under local anesthesia in bilateral quadrants of patients during the periods. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to score pain levels for each quadrant after performing scaling and root planing.Results. Increase in pain perception among females during their menstrual or perimenstrual period was significantly greater than their postmenstrual period (P< 0.05). It is observed that women whose first appointment was given in perimenstrual period had more pain (VAS) (P= 0.0000) when compared to those women whose first appointment was given in postmenstrual period.Conclusion. Females in their menstrual period demonstrated higher pain responses and high anxiety levels to supra- and subgingival debridement. This increase in the pain levels of women during their menstrual period was statistically significant. If the appointments are given in postmenstrual period, women feel less pain.
Freeze-Drying of Plant Tissue Containing HBV Surface Antigen for the Oral Vaccine against Hepatitis B
Authors: Czyż Marcin , Dembczyński Radosław , Marecik Roman , Wojas-Turek Justyna , Milczarek Magdalena , Pajtasz-Piasecka Elżbieta , Wietrzyk Joanna , Pniewski Tomasz
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to develop a freeze-drying protocol facilitating successful processing of plant material containing the small surface antigen of hepatitis B virus (S-HBsAg) while preserving its VLP structure and immunogenicity. Freeze-drying of the antigen in lettuce leaf tissue, without any isolation or purification step, was investigated. Each process step was consecutively evaluated and the best parameters were applied. Several drying profiles and excipients were tested. The profile of 20°C for 20 h for primary and 22°C for 2 h for secondary drying as well as sucrose expressed efficient stabilisation of S-HBsAg during freeze-drying. Freezing rate and postprocess residual moisture were also analysed as important factors affecting S-HBsAg preservation. The process was reproducible and provided a product with VLP content up to 200 µg/g DW. Assays for VLPs and total antigen together with animal immunisation trials confirmed preservation of antigenicity and immunogenicity of S-HBsAg in freeze-dried powder. Long-term stability tests revealed that the stored freeze-dried product was stable at 4°C for one year, but degraded at elevated temperatures. As a result, a basis for an efficient freeze-drying process has been established and a suitable semiproduct for oral plant-derived vaccine against HBV was obtained.
Correlation and Spectral Properties of a Coupled Nonlinear Dynamical System in the Context of Numerical Weather Prediction and Climate Modeling
Authors: Soldatenko Sergei , Chichkine Denis
Published: October 2014

Complex dynamical processes occurring in the earth’s climate system are strongly nonlinear and exhibit wave-like oscillations within broad time-space spectrum. One way to imitate essential features of such processes is using a coupled nonlinear dynamical system, obtained by coupling two versions of the well-known Lorenz (1963) model with distinct time scales that differ by a certain time-scale factor. This dynamical system is frequently applied for studying various aspects of atmospheric and climate dynamics, as well as for estimating the effectiveness of numerical algorithms and techniques used in numerical weather prediction, data assimilation, and climate simulation. This paper examines basic dynamic, correlative, and spectral properties of this system and quantifies the influence of the coupling strength on power spectrum densities, spectrograms, and autocorrelation functions.
Bell Polynomials Approach Applied to (2 + 1)-Dimensional Variable-Coefficient Caudrey-Dodd-Gibbon-Kotera-Sawada Equation
Authors: Cheng Wen-guang , Li Biao , Chen Yong
Published: October 2014

The bilinear form, bilinear Bäcklund transformation, and Lax pair of a (2 + 1)-dimensional variable-coefficient Caudrey-Dodd-Gibbon-Kotera-Sawada equation are derived through Bell polynomials. The integrable constraint conditions on variable coefficients can be naturally obtained in the procedure of applying the Bell polynomials approach. Moreover, theN-soliton solutions of the equation are constructed with the help of the Hirota bilinear method. Finally, the infinite conservation laws of this equation are obtained by decoupling binary Bell polynomials. All conserved densities and fluxes are illustrated with explicit recursion formulae.
Pharmacological Prevention of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rajkumar Ravi Philip , Bharadwaj Balaji
Published: October 2014

Introduction. Various interventions, both psychological and pharmacological, have been studied for their efficacy in preventing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following trauma exposure. However, the preventive effect of pharmacotherapy has not been systematically assessed. Methodology. A systematic review of all clinical trials of drug therapy to prevent PTSD, available through the PubMed and EMBASE databases, was conducted. This included an assessment of each study’s quality. Results. A total of 13 studies were reviewed. The drugs examined in these papers included propranolol, hydrocortisone, serotonin reuptake inhibitors, gabapentin, omega-3 fatty acids, and benzodiazepines. There was marked heterogeneity across studies in terms of quality, study populations, and methodology. Analysis of the outcomes revealed preliminary evidence for the efficacy of hydrocortisone, particularly in critical care settings. There was no consistent evidence to support the use of other drugs to prevent PTSD. Discussion. There may be a limited role for hydrocortisone in preventing the development of PTSD in specific settings. Results with other drugs are inconsistent. Further large-scale studies should assess the efficacy of these approaches in other contexts, such as natural disasters, and the time frame within which they should be used.
Research on Static Triaxial Mechanical Properties of New CementSoil Reinforced with Polypropylene Fiber
Authors: Wang Qiang , Tang Rui , Cheng Qun , Wang Xiankun , Liu Fang-ling
Published: October 2014

Through the laboratory test, the mechanical properties of cementsoil with adding desulfurization gypsum, fly ash, and polypropylene fiber were studied. Three different percentages (0%, 0.5%, and 1.0%) of polypropylene fiber were mixed into new cementsoil for which the cement content is 15% of the dry soil weight, the desulfurization gypsum content is 2% of the dry soil weight, and the fly ash content is 1.0% of the dry soil weight. The new cementsoil strength reinforced with polypropylene fiber was studied by triaxial test under different polypropylene fiber mixing ratio, different age, and different confining pressure. The experimental results show that, compared with ordinary soil, the deviatoric stress and the peak shear strength reinforced with polypropylene fiber have different amplitude increase. At the same time, the internal friction angle of new cementsoil with polypropylene fiber increases slightly with the growth of the age. The stress-strain curve of the polypropylene fiber cementsoil has the typical work hardening characteristic and has the characteristics of bulge fracture.
Dynamic and Static Combination Analysis Method of Slope Stability Analysis during Earthquake
Authors: Lu Liang , Wang Zongjian , Huang Xiaoyuan , Zheng Bin , Arai Katsuhiko
Published: October 2014

The results of laboratory model tests for simulating the slope failure due to vibration, including unreinforced slope and the slope reinforced by using geotextile, show that the slope failure occurs when a cumulative plastic displacement exceeds a certain critical value. To overcome the defects of conventional stability analysis, which evaluates the slope characteristics only by its strength parameters, a numerical procedure considering the stiffness and deformation of materials and geosynthetics is proposed to evaluate the seismic slope stability. In the proposed procedure, the failure of slope is defined when the cumulative plastic displacement calculated by a dynamic response analysis using actual seismic wave exceeds the critical value of displacement estimated by a static stability analysis considering seismic coefficient. The proposed procedure is applied to the laboratory model tests and an actual failure of slope in earthquake. The case study shows the possibility that the proposed procedure gives the realistic evaluation of seismic slope stability.
Efficient Priority Access to the Shared Commercial Radio with Offloading for Public Safety in LTE Heterogeneous Networks
Authors: Tata Chafika , Kadoch Michel
Published: October 2014

This paper presents the algorithm Courteous Priority Access to the shared commercial radio with offloading (CPAwO), for public safety network (PSN) over LTE heterogeneous networks (HetNets). We propose a solution for prioritization of PSN users with access to the commercial radio network resources. Our model offers additional radio resources to the PSN. Furthermore, it ensures a certain priority for commercial users by assigning quantities of additional radio resources through the courteous scheme. This allows delaying preemption and blocking bearers when the radio resources are limited. The other part of CPAwO model is to apply the principle of offloading in order to reduce the impact of the macrocell congestion. This technique is to switch the new bearers arriving at the LTE macrocells to small cells, in order to decrease the number of the blocked and interrupted bearers in the network. The results of the simulation showed that the allocation of radio resources via the courteous mechanism with offloading of new bearers to small cells reduces the rate of blocking bearers and delays the preemption of active bearers present in the LTE HetNets. It also reduces the cost of the end-to-end communications, thanks to the reallocation of free frequencies.
Atomistic Simulation of Intrinsic Defects and Trivalent and Tetravalent Ion Doping in Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Santos Ricardo D. S. , Rezende Marcos V. dos S.
Published: October 2014

Atomistic simulation techniques have been employed in order to investigate key issues related to intrinsic defects and a variety of dopants from trivalent and tetravalent ions. The most favorable intrinsic defect is determined to be a scheme involving calcium and hydroxyl vacancies. It is found that trivalent ions have an energetic preference for the Ca site, while tetravalent ions can enter P sites. Charge compensation is predicted to occur basically via three schemes. In general, the charge compensation via the formation of calcium vacancies is more favorable. Trivalent dopant ions are more stable than tetravalent dopants.
Impulsive Stabilization of Dynamic Equations on Time Scales
Authors: Cui Yinhua , Choi Sung Kyu , Koo Namjip
Published: October 2014

In this paper we study the impulsive stabilization of dynamic equations on time scales via the Lyapunov’s direct method. Our results show that dynamic equations on time scales may beψ-exponentially stabilized by impulses. Furthermore, we give some examples to illustrate our results.
Numerical Research on Hydraulically Generated Vibration and Noise of a Centrifugal Pump Volute with Impeller Outlet Width Variation
Authors: Liu Houlin , Ding Jian , Dai Hanwei , Tan Minggao , Tang Xiaochen
Published: October 2014

The impeller outlet width of centrifugal pumps is of significant importance for numbers of effects. In the paper, these effects including the performance, pressure pulsations, hydraulically generated vibration, and noise level are investigated. For the purpose, two approaches were used to predict the vibration and sound radiation of the volute under fluid excitation force. One approach is the combined CFD/FEM analysis for structure vibration, and then the structure response obtained from the FEM analysis is treated as the boundary condition for BEM analysis for sound radiation. The other is the combined CFD/FEM/BEM coupling method. Before the numerical methods were used, the simulation results were validated by the vibration acceleration of the monitoring points on the volute. The vibration and noise were analyzed and compared at three flow conditions. The analysis of the results shows that the influences of the sound pressure of centrifugal pumps on the structure appear insignificant. The relative outlet width at nq(SI) = 26.7 in this paper should be less than 0.06, based on an overall consideration of the pump characteristics, pressure pulsations, vibration and noise level.
Prognostic Implication of Predominant Histologic Subtypes of Lymph Node Metastases in Surgically Resected Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Suda Kenichi , Sato Katsuaki , Shimizu Shigeki , Tomizawa Kenji , Takemoto Toshiki , Iwasaki Takuya , Sakaguchi Masahiro , Mitsudomi Tetsuya
Published: October 2014

The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer, American Thoracic Society, and European Respiratory Society (IASLC/ATS/ERS) proposed a new classification for lung adenocarcinoma (AD) based on predominant histologic subtypes, such as lepidic, papillary, acinar, solid, and micropapillary; this system reportedly reflects well outcomes of patients with surgically resected lung AD. However, the prognostic implication of predominant histologic subtypes in lymph nodes metastases is unclear so far. In this study, we compared predominant subtypes between primary lung tumors and lymph node metastatic lesions in 24 patients with surgically treated lung adenocarcinoma with lymph node metastases. Additionally, we analyzed prognostic implications of these predominant histologic subtypes. We observed several discordance patterns between predominant subtypes in primary lung tumors and lymph node metastases. Concordance rates were 22%, 64%, and 100%, respectively, in papillary-, acinar-, and solid-predominant primary lung tumors. We observed that the predominant subtype in the primary lung tumor (HR 12.7,P = 0.037), but not that in lymph node metastases (HR 0.18,P = 0.13), determines outcomes in patients with surgically resected lung AD with lymph node metastases.
Preparation and Characterization of Liquisolid Compacts for Improved Dissolution of Telmisartan
Authors: Chella Naveen , Narra Nataraj , Rama Rao Tadikonda
Published: October 2014

The objective of the present work was to obtain pH independent and improved dissolution profile for a poorly soluble drug, telmisartan using liquisolid compacts. Liquisolid compacts were prepared using Transcutol HP as vehicle, Avicel PH102 as carrier, and Aerosil 200 as a coating material. The formulations were evaluated for drug excipient interactions, change in crystallinity of drug, flow properties, and general quality control tests of tablets using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), angle of repose, and various pharmacopoeial tests.In vitrodissolution studies were performed at three pH conditions (1.2, 4.5 and 7.4). Stability studies were performed at 40°C and 75% RH for three months. The formulation was found to comply with Indian pharmacopoeial limits for tablets. FTIR studies confirmed no interaction between drug and excipients. XRD and DSC studies indicate change/reduction in crystallinity of drug. Dissolution media were selected based on the solubility studies. The optimized formulation showed pH independent release profile with significant improvementP<0.005in dissolution compared to plain drug and conventional marketed formulation. No significant difference was seen in the tablet properties, and drug release profile after storage for 3 months.
Diuretic Activity of the Aqueous Extract Leaves ofFicus glumosaDel. (Moraceae) in Rats
Authors: Ntchapda Fidèle , Djedouboum Abakar  , Kom Blaise , Nana Paulin , Bonabe Christian , Maguirgue Kakesse  , Talla Emmanuel , Dimo Théophile
Published: October 2014

Experiments were carried out to validate the use ofF. glumosaextract as a diuretic in the treatment of hypertension as claimed by traditional healers. The experiments were performed under the same conditions with two synthetic pharmacological diuretics considered as check (Furosemide and Amiloride hydrochlorothiazide). The aqueous extract leaves ofF. glumosaaccelerated the elimination of overloaded fluid. At the maximum of diuretic response, urinary osmolarity decreased significantly when compared with controls. The single dose treatment of the aqueous extract leaves ofF. glumosahas significantly increased urine volume 24 h after administration of the extract. The stability of aldosterone level, the absence of correlation with the plasma levels of sodium, and the increased clearance of free water in the animals receiving the extract show that increased diuresis and natriuresis moderate elevation are tubular in origin. The increase in Na+, K+, and Cl−induced by the extract caused alkalinization of the urine and showed a strong inhibitory effect of carbonic anhydrase and saluretic. These effects were mainly observed at the dose of 375 mg/kg. These observations confirm the traditional use in the treatment of hypertension and support the importance of the conservation of local knowledge as well as the conservation of Cameroonian biodiversity.
Development and Characterization of Novel Site Specific Hollow Floating Microspheres Bearing 5-Fu for Stomach Targeting
Authors: Bhardwaj Peeyush , Chaurasia Deepti , Singh Ranjit , Swarup Anoop
Published: October 2014

Multiple-unit-type oral floating hollow microspheres of 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) were developed using modified solvent evaporation technique to prolong gastric residence time, to target stomach cancer, and to increase drug bioavailability. The prepared microspheres were characterized for micromeritic properties, floating behavior, entrapment efficiency, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thein vitrodrug release and floating behavior were studied in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) at pH 1.2. The yield of microspheres was obtained up to84.46±6.47%. Microspheres showed passable flow properties. Based on optical microscopy, particle size was found to be ranging from158.65±12.02to198.67±17.45 μm. SEM confirmed spherical size, perforated smooth surface, and a hollow cavity inside the microspheres. Different kinetic models for drug release were also applied on selected batches.
High Resolution Melting Analysis for Rapid Mutation Screening in Gyrase and Topoisomerase IV Genes in Quinolone-ResistantSalmonella enterica
Authors: Ngoi Soo Tein , Thong Kwai Lin
Published: October 2014

The increasedSalmonellaresistance to quinolones and fluoroquinolones is a public health concern in the Southeast Asian region. The objective of this study is to develop a high resolution melt curve (HRM) assay to rapidly screen for mutations in quinolone-resistant determining region (QRDR) of gyrase and topoisomerase IV genes. DNA sequencing was performed on 62Salmonellastrains to identify mutations in the QRDR ofgyrA,gyrB,parC, andparEgenes. Mutations were detected in QRDR ofgyrA(n=52; S83F, S83Y, S83I, D87G, D87Y, and D87N) andparE(n=1; M438I).Salmonellastrains with mutations within QRDR ofgyrAare generally more resistant to nalidixic acid (MIC16>256 μg/mL). Mutations were uncommon within the QRDR ofgyrB,parC, andparEgenes. In the HRM assay, mutants can be distinguished from the wild-type strains based on the transition of melt curves, which is more prominent when the profiles are displayed in difference plot. In conclusion, HRM analysis allows for rapid screening for mutations at the QRDRs of gyrase and topoisomerase IV genes inSalmonella. This assay markedly reduced the sequencing effort involved in mutational studies of quinolone-resistance genes.
Surface Crack Detection for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic Materials Using Pulsed Eddy Current Based on Rectangular Differential Probe
Authors: Wu Jialong , Zhou Deqiang , Wang Jun
Published: October 2014

Aiming at the surface defect inspection of carbon fiber reinforced composite, the differential and the direct measurement finite element simulation models of pulsed eddy current flaw detection were built. The principle of differential pulsed eddy current detection was analyzed and the sensitivity of defect detection was compared through two kinds of measurements. The validity of simulation results was demonstrated by experiments. The simulation and experimental results show that the pulsed eddy current detection method based on rectangular differential probe can effectively improve the sensitivity of surface defect detection of carbon fiber reinforced composite material.
Ulam’s Type Stability of Involutional-Exponential Functional Equations
Authors: Chung Jaeyoung
Published: October 2014

LetSbe a commutative semigroup,f,g:S→Candσ:S→San involution. In this paper we consider the stability of involution-exponential functional equationsfx+σy-gxfy≤ϕxresp.,  ϕy, |f(x+σy)-f(x)g(y)|≤ϕ(x) [resp.,  ϕ(y)]for allx,y∈S, whereϕ:S→R+satisfies the growth condition: there existsC>1such thatlimk→∞C-kϕ(kx)=0for eachx∈S. We also consider the stability ofL∞-version|f(x+σy)-f(x)f(y)|L∞(R2n)≤ϵ,wheref:Rn→Cis a locally integrable function.