bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on High-Speed Rail Pricing Strategy in the Context of Modes Competition
Authors: Yao Enjian , Yang Qirong , Zhang Yongsheng , Sun Xun
Published: December 2013

High-speed rail (HSR) has developed rapidly in China over the recent years, for the less pollution, faster speed, comfort, and safety. However, there is still an issue on how to improve the seat occupancy rates for some HSR lines. This research analyzes the pricing strategy for HSR in Wuhan-Guangzhou corridor based on the competition among different transport modes with the aim of improving occupancy rates. It starts with the theoretical analysis of relationship between market share and ticket fare, and then disaggregate choice models with nested structure based on stated preference (SP) data are established to obtain the market share of HSR under specific ticket fare. Finally, a pricing strategy is proposed to improve the occupancy rates for Wuhan-Guangzhou HSR. The results confirm that a pricing strategy with floating fare should be accepted to improve the profit of HSR; to be specific, the ticket fare should be set in lower level on weekdays and higher level on holidays.
A Distributed Intrusion Detection Scheme about Communication Optimization in Smart Grid
Authors: Li Yunfa , Zhou Qili
Published: December 2013

We first propose an efficient communication optimization algorithm in smart grid. Based on the optimization algorithm, we propose an intrusion detection algorithm to detect malicious data and possible cyberattacks. In this scheme, each node acts independently when it processes communication flows or cybersecurity threats. And neither special hardware nor nodes cooperation is needed. In order to justify the feasibility and the availability of this scheme, a series of experiments have been done. The results show that it is feasible and efficient to detect malicious data and possible cyberattacks with less computation and communication cost.
On Cayley Digraphs That Do Not Have Hamiltonian Paths
Authors: Morris Dave Witte
Published: December 2013

We construct an infinite family {Cay→(Gi;ai;bi)} of connected, 2-generated Cayley digraphs that do not have hamiltonian paths, such that the orders of the generators ai and bi are unbounded. We also prove that if G is any finite group with |[G,G]|≤3, then every connected Cayley digraph on G has a hamiltonian path (but the conclusion does not always hold when |[G,G]|=4 or 5).
Mathematical Modeling for Water Quality Management under Interval and Fuzzy Uncertainties
Authors: Liu J. , Li Y. P. , Huang G. H.
Published: December 2013

In this study, an interval fuzzy credibility-constrained programming (IFCP) method is developed for river water quality management. IFCP is derived from incorporating techniques of fuzzy credibility-constrained programming (FCP) and interval-parameter programming (IPP) within a general optimization framework. IFCP is capable of tackling uncertainties presented as interval numbers and possibility distributions as well as analyzing the reliability of satisfying (or the risk of violating) system’s constraints. A real-world case for water quality management planning of the Xiangxi River in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region (which faces severe water quality problems due to pollution from point and nonpoint sources) is then conducted for demonstrating the applicability of the developed method. The results demonstrate that high biological oxygen demand (BOD) discharge is observed at the Baishahe chemical plant and Gufu wastewater treatment plant. For nonpoint sources, crop farming generates large amounts of total phosphorus (TP) and total nitrogen (TN). The results are helpful for managers in not only making decisions of effluent discharges from point and nonpoint sources but also gaining insight into the tradeoff between system benefit and environmental requirement.
Estimation of Static Pull-In Instability Voltage of Geometrically Nonlinear Euler-Bernoulli Microbeam Based on Modified Couple Stress Theory by Artificial Neural Network Model
Authors: Heidari Mohammad , Tadi Beni Yaghoub , Homaei Hadi
Published: December 2013

In this study, the static pull-in instability of beam-type micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) is theoretically investigated. Considering the mid-plane stretching as the source of the nonlinearity in the beam behavior, a nonlinear size dependent Euler-Bernoulli beam model is used based on a modified couple stress theory, capable of capturing the size effect. Two supervised neural networks, namely, back propagation (BP) and radial basis function (RBF), have been used for modeling the static pull-in instability of microcantilever beam. These networks have four inputs of length, width, gap, and the ratio of height to scale parameter of beam as the independent process variables, and the output is static pull-in voltage of microbeam. Numerical data employed for training the networks and capabilities of the models in predicting the pull-in instability behavior has been verified. Based on verification errors, it is shown that the radial basis function of neural network is superior in this particular case and has the average errors of 4.55% in predicting pull-in voltage of cantilever microbeam. Further analysis of pull-in instability of beam under different input conditions has been investigated and comparison results of modeling with numerical considerations show a good agreement, which also proves the feasibility and effectiveness of the adopted approach.
Effectiveness of a Theory‐Driven Nutritional Education Program in Improving Calcium Intake among Older Mauritian Adults
Authors: Bhurosy Trishnee , Jeewon Rajesh
Published: December 2013

Background. Low calcium intake, a risk factor of osteoporosis and subsequent fractures, has been previously reported among post‐menopausal women in Mauritius. Objective. To assess the effectiveness of a theory‐based educational intervention in improving the calcium intake, self‐efficacy, and knowledge of older Mauritians. Methodology. The study was conducted as a pre‐ and post‐test design which was evaluated through a baseline, immediate postintervention, and 2‐month follow‐up assessments. Participants were adults (n = 189) aged ≥40 years old from 2 urban community‐based centres. The intervention group (IG) (n = 98) participated in 6 weekly interactive lessons based on the health belief model (HBM). The main outcome measures were calcium intake, HB scale scores, knowledge scores, and physical activity level (PAL). Anthropometric measurements were also assessed. Results. The IG significantly increased its baseline calcium intake, knowledge and self‐efficacy (P < 0.001) at post‐assessments. A significant decrease in waist circumference in the IG was noted (P < 0.05) after intervention. PAL significantly increased by 12.3% at post‐test and by 29.6% at follow‐up among intervention adults when compared to the CG (P < 0.001). Conclusion. A theory‐driven educational intervention is effective in improving the dietary calcium intake, knowledge, self‐efficacy, and PAL of older community‐based Mauritian adults.
Influence of Plant Diversity on the Numerical Response ofEriopis connexa(Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) to Changes in Cereal Aphid Density in Wheat Crops
Authors: Tulli María C. , Carmona Dora M. , Vincini Ana M.
Published: December 2013

Cereal aphids cause economic injury to wheat crops. In Argentina,Eriopis connexais an indigenous ladybird. In the present study, the numerical response ofE. connexato changes in aphid density on wheat crops with high and low plant diversity was investigated. The study was carried out in Balcarce, Buenos Aires, Argentina, from September to December 2007 and 2008, on two wheat crops with either a higher plant diversity (HPD) with refuge strips or a lower plant diversity (LPD) without refuge strips. Crops were sampled every week and the abundance of aphids andE. connexawas recorded. The dominant aphid species wereSchizaphis graminum, Metopolophium dirhodum,andSitobion avenae.Eriopis connexashowed a linear increase in the numerical response to an increase in aphid density, which varied in space and time. The abundance ofE. connexaincreased in relation to the crop development and aphid population and was higher in the HPD than in the LPD system. This predator increased its reproductive numerical response only in 2008, with a significant liner response in the HPD system. This suggests that the potential ofE. connexaas a predator of cereal aphids also increases directly in proportion to landscape vegetal diversity.
Assessment of Severe Accident Depressurization Valve Activation Strategy for Chinese Improved 1000 MWe PWR
Authors: Shao Ge , Tong Lili , Cao Xuewu
Published: December 2013

To prevent HPME and DCH, SADV is proposed to be added to the pressurizer for Chinese improved 1000 MWe PWR NPP with the reference of EPR design. Rapid depressurization capability is assessed using the mechanical analytical code. Three typical severe accident sequences of TMLB’, SBLOCA, and LOFW are selected. It shows that with activation of the SADV the RCS pressure is low enough to prevent HPME and DCH. Natural circulation at upper RPV and hot leg is considered for the rapid depressurization capacity analysis. The result shows that natural circulation phenomenon results in heat transfer from the core to the pipes in RCS which may cause the creep rupture of pipes in RCS and delays the severe accident progression. Different SADV valve areas are investigated to the influence of depressurization of RCS. Analysis shows that the introduction of SADV with right valve area will delay progression of core degradation to RPV failure. Valve area is to be optimized since smaller SADV area will reduce its effect and too large valve area will lead to excessive loss of water inventory in RCS and makes core degradation progression to RPV failure faster without additional core cooling water sources.
Adsorption of Chromium(VI) from Aqueous Solutions by Coffee Polyphenol-Formaldehyde/Acetaldehyde Resins
Authors: Mulani Khudbudin , Daniels Siona , Rajdeo Kishor , Tambe Sanjeev , Chavan Nayaku
Published: December 2013

Removal of chromium(VI) from wastewater is essential as it is toxic. Thus, removal of chromium(VI) was performed using coffee polyphenol-formaldehyde/acetaldehyde resins as adsorbents. Adsorbent resins were prepared by condensation of decaffeinated coffee powder with formaldehyde/acetaldehyde and used for the removal of Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solutions. A simple and sensitive solid phase extraction procedure was applied for the determination of chromium at trace levels by spectroscopic method using 1,5-diphenylcarbazide reagent. The adsorption of Cr(VI) on the coffee polyphenol-formaldehyde/acetaldehyde resins was monitored by FTIR and EDX analysis. The metal adsorption parameters such as contact time, pH, Cr(VI) ion concentration, and adsorbent dose were investigated. For Cr(VI), the maximum adsorption capacity of coffee polyphenol-formaldehyde resins was 98% at pH 2. The experimental results showed that Cr(VI) bound strongly with coffee polyphenol-formaldehyde/acetaldehyde resins and utilization of resins could be improved greatly by reuse.
The Variations in the Soil Enzyme Activity, Protein Expression, Microbial Biomass, and Community Structure of Soil Contaminated by Heavy Metals
Authors: Zhang Xi , Li Feng , Liu Tingting , Xu Chen , Duan Dechao , Peng Cheng , Zhu Shenhai , Shi Jiyan
Published: December 2013

Heavy metals have adverse effects on soil ecology. Given the toxicity of heavy metals, there is an urgent need to select an appropriate indicator that will aid in monitoring their biological effects on soil ecosystems. By combining different monitoring techniques for various aspects of microbiology, the effects of heavy metals on soil microorganisms near a smelter were studied. Our goal was to determine whether proteins could be a proper indicator for soil pollution. This study demonstrated that the activities of acid phosphatase and dehydrogenase, as well as the levels of microbial biomass carbon and proteins, were negatively affected by heavy metals. In addition, significantly negative correlations were observed between these microbial indicators and heavy metals. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis was used in this study to demonstrate that heavy metals also have a significantly negative effect on soil microbial diversity and community structure. The soil protein expression was similar across different soils, but a large quantity of presumably low molecular weight protein was observed only in contaminated soil. Based on this research, we determined that the soil protein concentration was more sensitive to heavy metals than acid phosphatase, dehydrogenase, or microbial biomass carbon because it was more dramatically decreased in the contaminated soils. Therefore, we concluded that the soil protein level has great potential to be a sensitive indicator of soil contamination. Further research is essential, particularly to identify the low molecular weight protein that only appears in contaminated soil, so that further insight can be gained into the responses of microbes to heavy metals.
Mechanical Properties of Recycled Aggregate Concrete at Low and High Water/Binder Ratios
Authors: Peng Gai-Fei , Huang Yan-Zhu , Wang Hai-Sheng , Zhang Jiu-Feng , Liu Qi-Bing
Published: December 2013

This paper presents an experimental research on mechanical properties of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) at low and high water/binder (W/B) ratios. Concrete at two W/B ratios (0.255 and 0.586) was broken into recycled concrete aggregates (RCA). A type of thermal treatment was employed to remove mortar attached to RCA. The RAC at a certain (low or high) W/B ratio was prepared with RCA made from demolished concrete of the same W/B ratio. Tests were conducted on aggregate to measure water absorption and crushing values and on both RAC and natural aggregate concrete (NAC) to measure compressive strength, tensile splitting strength, and fracture energy. The mechanical properties of RAC were lower than those of NAC at an identical mix proportion. Moreover, the heating process caused a decrease in compressive strength and fracture energy in the case of low W/B ratio but caused an increase in those properties in the case of high W/B ratio. The main type of flaw in RCA from concrete at a low W/B ratio should be microcracks in gravel, and the main type of flaw in RCA from concrete at a high W/B ratio should be attached mortar.
Formulation Strategies to Improve the Bioavailability of Poorly Absorbed Drugs with Special Emphasis on Self-Emulsifying Systems
Authors: Gupta Shweta , Kesarla Rajesh , Omri Abdelwahab
Published: December 2013

Poorly water-soluble drug candidates are becoming more prevalent. It has been estimated that approximately 60–70% of the drug molecules are insufficiently soluble in aqueous media and/or have very low permeability to allow for their adequate and reproducible absorption from the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) following oral administration. Formulation scientists have to adopt various strategies to enhance their absorption. Lipidic formulations are found to be a promising approach to combat the challenges. In this review article, potential advantages and drawbacks of various conventional techniques and the newer approaches specifically the self-emulsifying systems are discussed. Various components of the self-emulsifying systems and their selection criteria are critically reviewed. The attempts of various scientists to transform the liquid self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) to solid-SEDDS by adsorption, spray drying, lyophilization, melt granulation, extrusion, and so forth to formulate various dosage forms like self emulsifying capsules, tablets, controlled release pellets, beads, microspheres, nanoparticles, suppositories, implants, and so forth have also been included. Formulation of SEDDS is a potential strategy to deliver new drug molecules with enhanced bioavailability mostly exhibiting poor aqueous solubility. The self-emulsifying system offers various advantages over other drug delivery systems having potential to solve various problems associated with drugs of all the classes of biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS).
Correlation between Ultrasound Reflection Intensity and Tumor Ablation Ratio of Late‐Stage Pancreatic Carcinoma in HIFU Therapy: Dynamic Observation on Ultrasound Reflection Intensity
Authors: Ge Hui-Yu , Miao Li-Ying , Wang Jin-Rui , Xiong Liu-Lin , Yan Fang , Zheng Cui-Shan , Jia Jian-Wen , Cui Li-Gang , Chen Wen
Published: December 2013

The minimally invasive high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy is thermal ablation treatment for late‐stage pancreatic carcinoma with widely recognized safety and effectiveness, but there are currently no instant assessment methods for its ablation effect. It is vital to find a real‐time high‐sensitive assessment method. This research aims to dynamically observe the variation rules of ultrasound reflection intensity, analyze the correlation between ultrasound reflection intensity and tumor ablation ratio, and find out the value of ultrasound reflection intensity in prognosis of HIFU ablation effect. HIFU intermittent therapies were retrospectively analyzed for 31 subjects with late‐stage pancreatic carcinoma from March 2007 to December 2009 in the study. The variation rules of the ultrasound reflection intensity during HIFU therapy were summarized and the correlation between ultrasound reflection intensity and tumor ablation ratio was analyzed based on the tumor ablation ratio indicated by CT scanning. The conclusion is that variation of ultrasound reflection intensity can be used for initial assessment of tumor ablation in HIFU therapy and early prognosis of overall HIFU ablation, providing important clinical basis for improving safety and effectiveness of HIFU therapy. Ultrasound can work as a real‐time imaging instrument for observation of HIFU ablation effect in treating late‐stage pancreatic carcinoma.
Rapid Enzymatic Method for Pectin Methyl Esters Determination
Authors: Łękawska-Andrinopoulou Lucyna , Vasiliou Efstathios G. , Georgakopoulos Dimitrios G. , Yialouris Constantinos P. , Georgiou Constantinos A.
Published: December 2013

Pectin is a natural polysaccharide used in food and pharma industries. Pectin degree of methylation is an important parameter having significant influence on pectin applications. A rapid, fully automated, kinetic flow method for determination of pectin methyl esters has been developed. The method is based on a lab-made analyzer using the reverse flow-injection/stopped flow principle. Methanol is released from pectin by pectin methylesterase in the first mixing coil. Enzyme working solution is injected further downstream and it is mixed with pectin/pectin methylesterase stream in the second mixing coil. Methanol is oxidized by alcohol oxidase releasing formaldehyde and hydrogen peroxide. This reaction is coupled to horse radish peroxidase catalyzed reaction, which gives the colored product 4-N-(p-benzoquinoneimine)-antipyrine. Reaction rate is proportional to methanol concentration and it is followed using Ocean Optics USB 2000+ spectrophotometer. The analyzer is fully regulated by a lab written LabVIEW program. The detection limit was 1.47 mM with an analysis rate of 7 samples h−1. A pairedt-test with results from manual method showed that the automated method results are equivalent to the manual method at the 95% confidence interval. The developed method is rapid and sustainable and it is the first application of flow analysis in pectin analysis.
Pulmonary Edema in Myasthenic Crisis
Authors: Anand Uttara Swati , Viswanathan Stalin , Arulneyam Jayanthi
Published: December 2013

We report a previously asymptomatic 50-year-old lady who came with myasthenic crisis as initial presentation of myasthenia gravis. She developed pulmonary edema following intravenous immunoglobulin administration and had ischemic changes in ECG and left ventricular dysfunction on echocardiography. She improved with diuretics, dobutamine, and fluid restriction alone. This is the first report in English-language medical literature describing the association between myasthenic crisis and likely takotsubo cardiomyopathy-related pulmonary edema following intravenous immunoglobulin administration.
Sensitivity Analysis of Mechanical Parameters of Different Rock Layers to the Stability of Coal Roadway in Soft Rock Strata
Authors: Zhao Zeng-hui , Wang Wei-ming , Gao Xin , Yan Ji-xing
Published: December 2013

According to the geological characteristics of Xinjiang Ili mine in western area of China, a physical model of interstratified strata composed of soft rock and hard coal seam was established. Selecting the tunnel position, deformation modulus, and strength parameters of each layer as influencing factors, the sensitivity coefficient of roadway deformation to each parameter was firstly analyzed based on a Mohr‐Columb strain softening model and nonlinear elastic‐plastic finite element analysis. Then the effect laws of influencing factors which showed high sensitivity were further discussed. Finally, a regression model for the relationship between roadway displacements and multifactors was obtained by equivalent linear regression under multiple factors. The results show that the roadway deformation is highly sensitive to the depth of coal seam under the floor which should be considered in the layout of coal roadway; deformation modulus and strength of coal seam and floor have a great influence on the global stability of tunnel; on the contrary, roadway deformation is not sensitive to the mechanical parameters of soft roof; roadway deformation under random combinations of multi‐factors can be deduced by the regression model. These conclusions provide theoretical significance to the arrangement and stability maintenance of coal roadway.
A Characterization of 4-Centralizer Groups
Authors: Dutta Jutirekha
Published: December 2013

A finite or infinite group is called an n-centralizer group if it has n numbers of distinct centralizers. In this paper, we prove that a finite or infinite group G is a 4-centralizer group if and only if G/Z(G) is isomorphic to C2×C2. This extends a result of Belcastro and Sherman.
A Small-Sized HTGR System Design for Multiple Heat Applications for Developing Countries
Authors: Ohashi Hirofumi , Sato Hiroyuki , Goto Minoru , Yan Xing , Sumita Junya , Tazawa Yujiro , Nomoto Yasunobu , Aihara Jun , Inaba Yoshitomo , Fukaya Yuji , Noguchi Hiroki , Imai Yoshiyuki , Tachibana Yukio
Published: December 2013

Japan Atomic Energy Agency has conducted a conceptual design of a 50 MWt small-sized high temperature gas cooled reactor (HTGR) for multiple heat applications, named HTR50S, with the reactor outlet coolant temperature of 750°C and 900°C. It is first-of-a-kind of the commercial plant or a demonstration plant of a small-sized HTGR system to be deployed in developing countries in the 2020s. The design concept of HTR50S is to satisfy the user requirements for multipurpose heat applications such as the district heating and process heat supply based on the steam turbine system and the demonstration of the power generation by helium gas turbine and the hydrogen production using the water splitting iodine-sulfur process, to upgrade its performance compared to that of HTTR without significant R&D utilizing the knowledge obtained by the HTTR design and operation, and to fulfill the high level of safety by utilizing the inherent features of HTGR and a passive decay heat removal system. The evaluation of technical feasibility shows that all design targets were satisfied by the design of each system and the preliminary safety analysis. This paper describes the conceptual design and the preliminary safety analysis of HTR50S.
Impact of the Air-Conditioning System on the Power Consumption of an Electric Vehicle Powered by Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Mebarki Brahim , Draoui Belkacem , Allaou Boumediène , Rahmani Lakhdar , Benachour Elhadj
Published: December 2013

The car occupies the daily universe of our society; however, noise pollution, global warming gas emissions, and increased fuel consumption are constantly increasing. The electric vehicle is one of the recommended solutions by the raison of its zero emission. Heating and air-conditioning (HVAC) system is a part of the power system of the vehicle when the purpose is to provide complete thermal comfort for its occupants, however it requires far more energy than any other car accessory. Electric vehicles have a low-energy storage capacity, and HVAC may consume a substantial amount of the total energy stored, considerably reducing the vehicle range, which is one of the most important parameters for EV acceptability. The basic goal of this paper is to simulate the air-conditioning system impact on the power energy source of an electric vehicle powered by a lithium-ion battery.
Vulnerability Assessment of IPv6 Websites to SQL Injection and Other Application Level Attacks
Authors: Cho Ying-Chiang , Pan Jen-Yi
Published: December 2013

Given the proliferation of internet connected devices, IPv6 has been proposed to replace IPv4. Aside from providing a larger address space which can be assigned to internet enabled devices, it has been suggested that the IPv6 protocol offers increased security due to the fact that with the large number of addresses available, standard IP scanning attacks will no longer become feasible. However, given the interest in attacking organizations rather than individual devices, most initial points of entry onto an organization′s network and their attendant devices are visible and reachable through web crawling techniques, and, therefore, attacks on the visible application layer may offer ways to compromise the overall network. In this evaluation, we provide a straightforward implementation of a web crawler in conjunction with a benign black box penetration testing system and analyze the ease at which SQL injection attacks can be carried out.
A Driver Modeling Based on the Preview-Follower Theory and the Jerky Dynamics
Authors: Cao Jianyong , Lu Hui , Guo Konghui , Zhang Jianwen
Published: December 2013

Based on the preview optimal simple artificial neural network driver model (POSANN), a new driver model, considering jerky dynamics and the tracing error between the real track and the planned path, is established. In this paper, the modeling for the driver-vehicle system is firstly described, and the relationship between weighting coefficients of driver model and system parameters is examined through test data. Secondly, the corresponding road test results are presented in order to verify the vehicle model and obtain the information on drive model and vehicle parameters. Finally, the simulations are carried out via CarSim. Simulation results indicate that the jerky dynamics need to be considered and the proposed new driver model can achieve a better path-following performance compared with the POSANN driver model.
A Minimal-Invasive Metabolic Test Detects Malignant Hyperthermia Susceptibility in a Patient after Sevoflurane-Induced Metabolic Crisis
Authors: Schuster Frank , Johannsen Stephan , Roewer Norbert
Published: December 2013

Malignant hyperthermia is a rare but life-threatening complication of general anesthesia in predisposed patients usually triggered by potent inhalation anesthetics and/or the depolarizing muscle relaxant succinylcholine. The authors present a case of delayed sevoflurane-induced malignant hyperthermia in a 21-year-old male patient that was sufficiently treated by discontinuation of trigger agent application and dantrolene infusion. After surviving an MH episode diagnostic procedures are indicated to increase patient safety. In the presented case, the use of a novel minimal-invasive metabolic test with intramuscular injection of halothane and caffeine successfully confirmed MH susceptibility and hence might be an alternative for invasive in vitro contracture testing in selected cases.
Outcomes of Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients Undergoing General and Vascular Surgery
Authors: Serio Stephen , Clements John M. , Grauf Dawn , Merchant Aziz M.
Published: December 2013

Aims. Preoperative diabetic and glycemic screening may or may not be cost effective. Although hyperglycemia is known to compromise surgical outcomes, the effect of a diabetic diagnosis on outcomes is poorly known. We examine the effect of diabetes on outcomes for general and vascular surgery patients. Methods. Data were collected from the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative for general or vascular surgery patients who had diabetes. Primary and secondary outcomes were 30-day mortality and 30-day overall morbidity, respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors. Results. We identified 177,430 (89.9%) general surgery and 34,006 (16.1%) vascular surgery patients. Insulin and noninsulin diabetics accounted for 7.1% and 9.8%, respectively. Insulin and noninsulin dependent diabetics were not at increased risk for mortality. Diabetics are at a slight increased odds than non-diabetics for overall morbidity, and insulin dependent diabetics more so than non-insulin dependent. Ventilator dependence, 10% weight loss, emergent case, and ASA class were most predictive. Conclusions. Diabetics were not at increased risk for postoperative mortality. Insulin-dependent diabetics undergoing general or vascular surgery were at increased risk of overall 30-day morbidity. These data provide insight towards mitigating poor surgical outcomes in diabetic patients and the cost effectiveness of preoperative diabetic screening.
Decomposition of China’s Carbon Emissions Intensity from 1995 to 2010: An Extended Kaya Identity
Authors: Li Wei , Ou Qing-Xiang
Published: December 2013

This paper employs an extended Kaya identity as the scheme and utilizes the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI II) as the decomposition technique based on analyzing CO2emissions trends in China. Change in CO2emissions intensity is decomposed from 1995 to 2010 and includes measures of the effect of Industrial structure, energy intensity, energy structure, and carbon emission factors. Results illustrate that changes in energy intensity act to decrease carbon emissions intensity significantly and changes in industrial structure and energy structure do not act to reduce carbon emissions intensity effectively. Policy will need to significantly optimize energy structure and adjust industrial structure if China’s emission reduction targets in 2020 are to be reached. This requires a change in China’s economic development path and energy consumption path for optimal outcomes.
Molecular Detection of Porcine Torovirus in Piglets with Diarrhea in Southwest China
Authors: Zhou Yuancheng , Chen Lei , Zhu Ling , Xu Zhiwen
Published: December 2013

Porcine torovirus (PToV) was detected from intestinal samples of piglets with diarrhea from 20 farms in southwest China. The total prevalence of PToV was 45% (9 out of 20 farms); it was the first detection of PToV in China, and also the study analyzed the phylogenetic relationships between the Chinese PToV and PToV reference strains as well as other representative toroviruses. Genetic and phylogenetic analysis showed the existence of genetic diversity among geographically separated PToV. Statistical analysis of the PToV positive rate as well as a survey for other enteric pathogens in diarrheic pigs suggests that PToV may play a role as a causative agent of severe diarrhea in piglets.
Th17 Cells in Immunity and Autoimmunity
Authors: Bedoya Simone Kennedy , Lam Brandon , Lau Kenneth , Larkin Joseph
Published: December 2013

Th17 and IL-17 play important roles in the clearance of extracellular bacterial and fungal infections. However, strong evidence also implicates the Th17 lineage in several autoimmune disorders including multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and asthma. The Th17 subset has also been connected with type I diabetes, although whether it plays a role in the pathogenicity of or protection from the disease remains a controversial issue. In this review we have provided a comprehensive overview of Th17 pathogenicity and function, including novel evidence for a protective role of Th17 cells in conjunction with the microbiota gut flora in T1D onset and progression.
The Odd Man Out
Authors: Mueller Tracy Gershwin , Buckley Pamela C.
Published: December 2013

Research about parent experiences with the special education system is largely dominated by the perspectives of mothers. Using purposeful sampling techniques, we interviewed 20 active fathers about their experiences navigating the special education system. All the fathers described three primary roles they experienced, including acting as a partner, advocate, and student. With respect to each of these roles, the fathers also described feeling as if they were not a part of the team, describing themselves as “the odd man out.” Each construct is discussed in detail, along with implications for practice.
Neomycin and pentagalloyl glucose enhanced cross-linking for elastin and glycosaminoglycans preservation in bioprosthetic heart valves
Authors: Tripi Daniel R , Vyavahare Naren R
Published: December 2013

Glutaraldehyde cross-linked bioprosthetic heart valves fail within 12–15 years of implantation due to limited durability. Glutaraldehyde does not adequately stabilize extracellular matrix components such as glycosaminoglycans and elastin, and loss of these components could be a major cause of degeneration of valve after implantation. We have shown earlier that neomycin-based cross-linking stabilizes glycosaminoglycans in the tissue but fails to stabilize elastin component. Here, we report a new treatment where neomycin and pentagalloyl glucose (PGG) were incorporated into glutaraldehyde cross-linking neomycin-PGG-Glutaraldehyde (NPG) to stabilize both glycosaminoglycans and elastin in porcine aortic valves. In vitro studies demonstrated a marked increase in extracellular matrix stability against enzymatic degradation after cross-linking and 10 month storage in NPG group when compared to glutaraldehyde controls. Tensile properties showed increased lower elastic modulus in both radial and circumferential directions in NPG group as compared to glutaraldehyde, probably due to increased elastin stabilization with no changes in upper elastic modulus and extensibility. The enhanced extracellular matrix stability was further maintained in NPG-treated tissues after rat subdermal implantation for three weeks. NPG group also showed reduced calcification when compared to glutaraldehyde controls. We conclude that NPG cross-linking would be an excellent alternative to glutaraldehyde cross-linking of bioprosthetic heart valves to improve its durability.
Results of a Nurse-Led Intervention
Authors: Ellis Sarah J. , Drew Donna , Wakefield Claire E. , Saikal Samra L. , Punch Deborah , Cohn Richard J.
Published: December 2013

The objectives of this study were to assess the feasibility and perceived academic/psychosocial outcomes of a pilot program using videoconferencing facilities to connect children with cancer to their home school. Eight parents, three patients, and five teachers ( n = 16) participated in semistructured interviews evaluating the efficacy/feasibility of this program. Results were analyzed using the qualitative framework of Miles and Huberman. Parents reported that videoconferencing provided the family with a sense of normalcy and connection to the outside world (4/8), often boosting patients’ mood (6/8). Further benefits included stronger relationships with classmates and teachers (15/16) and improved peer acceptance and school reintegration. There were no notable impacts on patients’ academic progression. Reported barriers included: costs, time commitments, bureaucratic hurdles, and technical and logistical difficulties. Videoconferencing technologies provide an important tool to connect childhood cancer patients to their classrooms; however, further solution-based investigation is warranted to overcome existing barriers.
Validity and Reliability of a Parental Self-Efficacy Instrument in the Healthy School Start Prevention Trial of Childhood Obesity
Authors: Bohman Benjamin , Nyberg Gisela , Sundblom Elinor , Schäfer Elinder Liselotte
Published: December 2013

Introduction. Measures of parental self-efficacy (PSE) for healthy dietary or physical activity (PA) behaviors in children have been used in several studies; however, further psychometric validation of PSE for these behaviors is needed. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a new PSE instrument. Methods. Mothers ( n = 162) of 6-year-old children in the Healthy School Start prevention trial of childhood obesity responded to the instrument and a parent-report questionnaire on diet and PA in children. In addition, PA was objectively assessed by accelerometry. Results. Exploratory factor analysis yielded a structure composed of three factors of PSE for dietary and PA behaviors in children, and PSE was associated with parent-report of these behaviors. Internal consistency was good. Discussion. Preliminary support of the validity and reliability of the PSE instrument was provided. The measure may be useful in prevention and treatment trials of childhood obesity.
A meta-analytic test of the imagined contact hypothesis
Authors: Miles Eleanor , Crisp Richard J.
Published: December 2013

Imagined intergroup contact (Crisp & Turner, 2009) is a new indirect contact strategy for promoting tolerance and more positive intergroup relations. Despite its relatively recent inception, there have now been over 70 studies showing that imagining a positive interaction with an outgroup member can reduce prejudice and encourage positive intergroup behavior. With this meta-analysis, we provide the first quantitative review of imagined contact effects on four key measures of intergroup bias: attitudes, emotions, intentions, and behavior. We also test for moderators arising from both group and study design characteristics. The analysis found that imagined contact resulted in significantly reduced intergroup bias across all four dependent variables (overall d+ = 0.35). The effect was significant for both published and unpublished studies, and emerged across a broad range of target outgroups and contexts. The effect was equally strong for explicit and implicit attitude measures, but was stronger on behavioral intentions than on attitudes, supporting the direct link between imagery and action proposedly underlying mental simulation effects. Most design characteristics had no significant impact, including valence of the imagined interaction, type of control condition, and time spent imagining contact. However, the more participants were instructed to elaborate on the context within which the imagined interaction took place, the stronger the effect. The imagined contact effect was also stronger for children than for adults, supporting the proposition that imagined contact is a potentially key component of educational strategies aiming to promote positive social change.
A prospective study of the use of botulinum toxin injections in the treatment of Raynaud’s syndrome associated with scleroderma
Authors: Uppal L. , Dhaliwal K. , Butler P. E.
Published: December 2013

Raynaud’s syndrome contributes to the pain, paraesthesia, ulceration, and gangrene of scleroderma. Botulinum toxin has been shown to improve digital perfusion in patients with Raynaud’s. This is the first study to objectively assess hand function following this treatment in patients with scleroderma. Twenty patients were treated with 100 units of botulinum toxin injected into the hand. An assessment of hand function and symptoms was performed prior to injection and then 8–12 weeks later. The outcomes assessed were change in pain, appearance, cold intolerance, pinch and power grip, ranges of movement, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score. In total, 80% of patients reported an overall improvement in their symptoms, reduction in pain, and improved DASH score and 65% reported improvement in cold intolerance. Overall, 90% showed an improvement in pinch grip and 65% an improvement in power grip. Objective parameters were statistically significantly improved; however, subjective outcomes only showed a trend. We have found botulinum toxin to be an effective treatment for Raynaud’s syndrome secondary to scleroderma.
Extensive curettage using a high-speed burr versus dehydrated alcohol instillation for the treatment of enchondroma of the hand
Authors: Cha S. M. , Shin H. D. , Kim K. C. , Park I. Y.
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients treated with different adjuvant methods after curettage for enchondromas of the hand. Sixty-two patients with enchondroma were treated with high-speed burring (29 patients) or alcohol instillation (33 patients) after curettage. The mean follow-up was 40.8 months. No significant differences in the visual analogue scale, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores, total range of active motion, grip strength, and complete healing time were observed between the groups. The distribution of the results of the formula by Wilhelm and Feldmeier were not significantly different between the groups. No surgery-related complications, postoperative pathological fractures, or recurrence was found in either group. For the treatment of enchondroma in the metacarpal and proximal phalanx, alcohol instillation immediately after curettage was as effective as extensive curettage using a high-speed burr.
Two-staged extensor tendon reconstruction for zone 6 extensor tendon loss of the fingers: indications, technique and results
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M.
Published: December 2013

Over a 20-year period, six patients (19 tendons) underwent two-staged extensor tendon reconstruction using silicone rods followed by palmaris longus tendon grafts sutured proximally to the divided flexor carpi radialis tendon. All patients were young men (mean age, 22 years) who sustained the injury in car accidents. The soft tissue loss from the dorsum of the hand was associated with extensor tendon loss over the entire zone 6 with or without loss in zone 7. Primary soft tissue coverage was done elsewhere, and patients presented for secondary tendon reconstruction. All patients had supple metacarpophalangeal joints before reconstruction. After the two-staged tendon reconstruction, full or near-full active flexion at the metacarpophalangeal joints was obtained in all patients. However, minor extension lags (10°–15°) at the metacarpophalangeal joints were seen in 15 out of 19 reconstructed fingers.
Impact of calreticulin mutations on clinical and hematological phenotype and outcome in essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Rotunno Giada , Mannarelli Carmela , Guglielmelli Paola , Pacilli Annalisa , Pancrazzi Alessandro , Pieri Lisa , Fanelli Tiziana , Bosi Alberto , Vannucchi Alessandro M.
Published: December 2013

Key Points

CALR mutations occur in half of JAK2 and MPL wt patients with ET and associate with some distinctive phenotypic traits. Patients with ET harboring CALR mutations are at significantly lower risk of thrombosis compared with JAK2- and MPL-mutated patients.
Identification of reproducible gene expression signatures in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lu Tzu-Pin , Chuang Eric Y , Chen James J
Published: December 2013

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Tremendous research efforts have been devoted to improving treatment procedures, but the average five-year overall survival rates are still less than 20%. Many biomarkers have been identified for predicting survival; challenges arise, however, in translating the findings into clinical practice due to their inconsistency and irreproducibility. In this study, we proposed an approach by identifying predictive genes through pathways.

Results

The microarrays from Shedden et al. were used as the training set, and the log-rank test was performed to select potential signature genes. We focused on 24 cancer-related pathways from 4 biological databases. A scoring scheme was developed by the Cox hazard regression model, and patients were divided into two groups based on the medians. Subsequently, their predictability and generalizability were evaluated by the 2-fold cross-validation and a resampling test in 4 independent datasets, respectively. A set of 16 genes related to apoptosis execution was demonstrated to have good predictability as well as generalizability in more than 700 lung adenocarcinoma patients and was reproducible in 4 independent datasets. This signature set was shown to have superior performances compared to 6 other published signatures. Furthermore, the corresponding risk scores derived from the set were found to associate with the efficacy of the anti-cancer drug ZD-6474 targeting EGFR.

Conclusions

In summary, we presented a new approach to identify reproducible survival predictors for lung adenocarcinoma, and the identified genes may serve as both prognostic and predictive biomarkers in the future.
Proteomic changes in the base of chrysanthemum cuttings during adventitious root formation
Authors: Liu Ruixia , Chen Sumei , Jiang Jiafu , Zhu Lu , Zheng Chen , Han Shuang , Gu Jing , Sun Jing , Li Huiyun , Wang Haibin , Song Aiping , Chen Fadi
Published: December 2013

Background

A lack of competence to form adventitious roots by cuttings of Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) is an obstacle for the rapid fixation of elite genotypes. We performed a proteomic analysis of cutting bases of chrysanthemum cultivar ‘Jinba’ during adventitious root formation (ARF) in order to identify rooting ability associated protein and/or to get further insight into the molecular mechanisms controlling adventitious rooting.

Results

The protein profiles during ARF were analyzed by comparing the 2-DE gels between 0-day-old (just severed from the stock plant) and 5-day-old cutting bases of chrysanthemum. A total of 69 differentially accumulated protein spots (two-fold change; t-test: 95% significance) were excised and analyzed using MALDI-TOF/TOF, among which 42 protein spots (assigned as 24 types of proteins and 7 unknown proteins) were confidently identified using the NCBI database. The results demonstrated that 19% proteins were related to carbohydrate and energy metabolism, 16% to photosynthesis, 10% to protein fate, 7% to plant defense, 6% to cell structure, 7% to hormone related, 3% to nitrate metabolism, 3% to lipid metabolism, 3% to ascorbate biosynthesis and 3% to RNA binding, 23% were unknown proteins. Twenty types of differentially accumulated proteins including ACC oxidase (CmACO) were further analyzed at the transcription level, most of which were in accordance with the results of 2-DE. Moreover, the protein abundance changes of CmACO are supported by western blot experiments. Ethylene evolution was higher during the ARF compared with day 0 after cutting, while silver nitrate, an inhibitor of ethylene synthesis, pretreatment delayed the ARF. It suggested that ACC oxidase plays an important role in ARF of chrysanthemum.

Conclusions

The proteomic analysis of cutting bases of chrysanthemum allowed us to identify proteins whose expression was related to ARF. We identified auxin-induced protein PCNT115 and ACC oxidase positively or negatively correlated to ARF, respectively. Several other proteins related to carbohydrate and energy metabolism, protein degradation, photosynthetic and cell structure were also correlated to ARF. The induction of protein CmACO provide a strong case for ethylene as the immediate signal for ARF. This strongly suggests that the proteins we have identified will be valuable for further insight into the molecular mechanisms controlling ARF.