bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHARACTERIZATION OF SIGNAL CONDUCTION ALONG DEMYELINATED AXONS BY ACTION-POTENTIAL-ENCODED SECOND HARMONIC GENERATION
Authors: LUO ZHI-HUI , CHEN JIANG-XU , HUANG YI-MEI , YANG HONG-QIN , LIN JU-QIANG , LI HUI , XIE SHU-SEN
Published: October 2013

Action-potential-encoded optical second harmonic generation (SHG) has been recently proposed for use in detecting the axonal damage in patients with demyelinating diseases. In this study, the characterization of signal conduction along axons of two different levels of demyelination was studied via a modified Hodgkin–Huxley model, because some types of demyelinating disease, i.e., primary progressive and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, are difficult to be distinguished by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we focused on the differences in signal conduction between two different demyelinated axons, such as the first-level demyelination and the second-level demyelination. The spatio-temporal distribution of action potentials along demyelinated axons and conduction properties including the refractory period and frequency encoding in these two patterns were investigated. The results showed that demyelination could induce the decrease both in the amplitude of action potentials and the ability of frequency coding. Furthermore, the signal conduction velocity in the second-level demyelination was about 21% slower than that in the first-level demyelination. The refractory period in the second-level demyelination was about 32% longer than the first-level. Thus, detecting the signal conduction in demyelinated axons by action-potential-encoded optical SHG could greatly improve the assessment of demyelinating disorders to classify the patients. This technique also offers a potential fast and noninvasive optical approach for monitoring membrane potential.
ELECTRONIC CONDUCTIVITY MEASUREMENTS IN SOLID ELECTROLYTES USING AN ION BLOCKING MICROELECTRODE: NOISE REJECTION BASED ON A MEDIAN FILTER
Authors: GUNES VEYIS , BOTQUELEN JEAN-YVES , BOHNKE ODILE
Published: October 2013

In this paper, a method of electronic conductivity measurement is presented. It combines two well known methods of electrochemistry: cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. This DC technique uses the Hebb–Wagner approach to block ionic conduction (when steady state conditions are reached) and allows electronic conduction of solid electrolytes to be determined. In order to get short diffusion times, a micro contact is used as an ion blocking electrode. However, as the electronic conduction in electrolytes is and should be very low, the current is also very low, typically some tens of nanoamps. Thus, the heating system inevitably generates noise problems that are solved using a median filter. As opposed to other related work, our system allows the determination of the conductivities without any preliminary smoothing or fitting of the curves (since the noise is strongly reduced). Some results with oxygen ion conductors are also given.
Chapter 3 Characteristics and morphological evolution of the Aeolian volcanoes from the study of submarine portions
Authors: Romagnoli Claudia
Published: October 2013

The seven Aeolian Islands exist in much greater volumes below sea level than above sea level; study of the submarine portions is therefore fundamental for a better understanding of the development of volcanism in the area, tectonic control from the regional structural setting and the morphological evolution of volcanic edifices. The interplay between destructive processes (marine erosion, mass-wasting and flank instability) and constructive processes in the growth and evolution of the Aeolian volcanoes is discussed based on a study of their present-day morphology. In particular, the distribution and characteristics of insular shelves in the shallow-water sectors of volcanic edifices are compared and discussed, considering that variable geological/local factors combined with sea-level fluctuations controlled the development and morphology of these features. It is proposed that submerged shelves may furnish relative chronological constraints for the development of the Aeolian volcanoes, enhancing present knowledge which is mostly based on subaerial portions.
Lower bounds for local approximation
Authors: Göös Mika , Hirvonen Juho , Suomela Jukka
Published: October 2013

In the study of deterministic distributed algorithms, it is commonly assumed that each node has a unique
O
(log
n
)-bit identifier. We prove that for a general class of graph problems, local algorithms (constant-time distributed algorithms) do not need such identifiers: a port numbering and orientation is sufficient.

Our result holds for so-called
simple
PO-
checkable graph optimisation problems
; this includes many classical packing and covering problems such as vertex covers, edge covers, matchings, independent sets, dominating sets, and edge dominating sets. We focus on the case of bounded-degree graphs and show that if a local algorithm finds a constant-factor approximation of a simple PO-checkable graph problem with the help of unique identifiers, then the same approximation ratio can be achieved on anonymous networks.

As a corollary of our result, we derive a tight lower bound on the local approximability of the
minimum edge dominating set problem
. By prior work, there is a deterministic local algorithm that achieves the approximation factor of 4--1/⌊Δ/2⌋ in graphs of maximum degree Δ. This approximation ratio is known to be optimal in the port-numbering model—our main theorem implies that it is optimal also in the standard model in which each node has a unique identifier.

Our main technical tool is an algebraic construction of
homogeneously ordered graphs
: We say that a graph is (α,
r
)-homogeneous if its nodes are linearly ordered so that an α fraction of nodes have pairwise isomorphic radius-
r
neighbourhoods. We show that there exists a finite (α,
r
)-homogeneous 2
k
-regular graph of girth at least
g
for any α < 1 and any
r
,
k
, and
g
.
Charged Lepton Flavor–Violation Experiments
Authors: Mihara S. , Miller J.P. , Paradisi P. , Piredda G.
Published: October 2013

We review the status of the major experiments that are searching for charged lepton flavor violation. We present and discuss recent results and prospects for future projects in the framework of theories beyond the Standard Model.
Intelligent Detector of Internal Combustion Engine Cylinder Pressure and Sensitivity Temperature Coefficient Compensation
Authors: Zheng Beirong , Zhou Chen , Pan Xiaomin , Wang Quan , Xue Wei
Published: October 2013

The detecting device based on mechanical mechanism is far from the measurement of internal combustion engine cylinder explosion and compression pressure. This pressure detection is under the environment of pulsed gas (over 500 times per one minute) and mechanical impactive vibration. Piezoresistive detection with silicon on insulator (SOI) strain gauges to pressure seems to be a good solution to meet such special applications. In this work, separation by implanted oxygen (SIMOX) wafer was used to fabricate the high temperature pressure sensor chip. For high accuracy and wide temperature range application, this paper also presents a novel pressure sensitivity temperature coefficient (TCS) compensation method, using integrated constant current network. A quantitative compensation formula is introduced in mathematics. During experiments, the absolute value of the compensated TCS is easy to be 10 × 10−6/°C~100 × 10−6/°C by individual adjustment and calibration of each device’s temperature compensation. Therefore, the feasibility and practicability of this technology are tested. Again, the disadvantages are discussed after the research of the experiment data and the improvement methods are also given in the designing period. This technology exhibits the great potential practical value of internal combustion engine cylinder pressure with volume manufacturing.
Neuroprotective Effect of Ginkgolide B on Bupivacaine-Induced Apoptosis in SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: Li Le , Zhang Qing-guo , Lai Lu-ying , Wen Xian-jie , Zheng Ting , Cheung Chi-wai , Zhou Shu-qin , Xu Shi-yuan
Published: October 2013

Local anesthetics are used routinely and effectively. However, many are also known to activate neurotoxic pathways. We tested the neuroprotective efficacy of ginkgolide B (GB), an active component of Ginkgo biloba, against ROS-mediated neurotoxicity caused by the local anesthetic bupivacaine. SH-SY5Y cells were treated with different concentrations of bupivacaine alone or following preincubation with GB. Pretreatment with GB increased SH-SY5Y cell viability and attenuated intracellular ROS accumulation, apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ER stress. GB suppressed bupivacaine-induced mitochondrial depolarization and mitochondria complex I and III inhibition and increased cleaved caspase-3 and Htra2 expression, which was strongly indicative of activation of mitochondria-dependent apoptosis with concomitantly enhanced expressions of Grp78, caspase-12 mRNA, protein, and ER stress. GB also improved ultrastructural changes indicative of mitochondrial and ER damage induced by bupivacaine. These results implicate bupivacaine-induced ROS-dependent mitochondria, ER dysfunction, and apoptosis, which can be attenuated by GB through its antioxidant property.
An Overview of Clinical Studies on Fiber Post Systems
Authors: Dikbas Idil , Tanalp Jale
Published: October 2013

Intraradicular posts are useful adjuncts in the restoration of endodontically treated teeth. These systems have undergone a significant evolution in recent years, and fiber‐reinforced systems have started to be incorporated into routine clinical care more frequently. Despite the high number of laboratory studies pertaining to the characteristics of fiber posts, clinical studies evaluating their general success rates are rather limited. Since clinical investigations are reliable means to achieve information about the general behavior pattern of materials or techniques, assessment of this data will be beneficial to have a better understanding of fiber‐reinforced intraradicular post systems. The purpose of this paper was to make a summary of clinical studies regarding various fiber posts. A PubMed search was conducted and articles dating back to 1990 were retrieved. The paper provides an overview of clinical studies on fiber posts specifically in the last decade as well as commentary analysis.
Sufficient Conditions for Global Convergence of Differential Evolution Algorithm
Authors: Hu Zhongbo , Xiong Shengwu , Su Qinghua , Zhang Xiaowei
Published: October 2013

The differential evolution algorithm (DE) is one of the most powerful stochastic real-parameter optimization algorithms. The theoretical studies on DE have gradually attracted the attention of more and more researchers. However, few theoretical researches have been done to deal with the convergence conditions for DE. In this paper, a sufficient condition and a corollary for the convergence of DE to the global optima are derived by using the infinite product. A DE algorithm framework satisfying the convergence conditions is then established. It is also proved that the two common mutation operators satisfy the algorithm framework. Numerical experiments are conducted on two parts. One aims to visualize the process that five convergent DE based on the classical DE algorithms escape from a local optimal set on two low dimensional functions. The other tests the performance of a modified DE algorithm inspired of the convergent algorithm framework on the benchmarks of the CEC2005.
Experimental Research and Modeling of Particle Deposition in Ventilation Ducts
Authors: Fan Hongming , Hua Jing
Published: October 2013

The model to predict particle deposition velocity on rough walls in fully developed turbulent duct flows has been developed in previous studies. For particle deposition model boundary conditions, it is assumed that the concentration of the particle is zero on the surface and the resuspension velocity is constant. However, the resuspension velocity may not be constant with the increase in mass of the deposited dust. To analyze the behavior of resuspension in air flow, a set of experiments were designed and conducted. Results showed that there was a linear relationship between the mass of resuspension and deposited dust. Also, the particle deposition model was improved by adding a resuspension item to the equation, and the steady-state equation was developed into a time-varying equation. The analysis results are presented in this paper.
Modeling and Performance Analysis of Route-Over and Mesh-Under Routing Schemes in 6LoWPAN under Error-Prone Channel Condition
Authors: Lee Tsung-Han , Chu Hung-Chi , Chang Lin-Huang , Chiang Hung-Shiou , Lin Yen-Wen
Published: October 2013

6LoWPAN technology has attracted extensive attention recently. It is because 6LoWPAN is one of Internet of Things standard and it adapts to IPv6 protocol stack over low-rate wireless personal area network, such as IEEE 802.15.4. One view is that IP architecture is not suitable for low-rate wireless personal area network. It is a challenge to implement the IPv6 protocol stack into IEEE 802.15.4 devices due to that the size of IPv6 packet is much larger than the maximum packet size of IEEE 802.15.4 in data link layer. In order to solve this problem, 6LoWPAN provides header compression to reduce the transmission overhead for IP packets. In addition, two selected routing schemes, mesh-under and route-over routing schemes, are also proposed in 6LoWPAN to forward IP fragmentations under IEEE 802.15.4 radio link. The distinction is based on which layer of the 6LoWPAN protocol stack is in charge of routing decisions. In route-over routing scheme, the routing distinction is taken at the network layer and, in mesh-under, is taken by the adaptation layer. Thus, the goal of this research is to understand the performance of two routing schemes in 6LoWPAN under error-prone channel condition.
Filippov Ratio-Dependent Prey-Predator Model with Threshold Policy Control
Authors: Zhang Xianghong , Tang Sanyi
Published: October 2013

The Filippov ratio-dependent prey-predator model with economic threshold is proposed and studied. In particular, the sliding mode domain, sliding mode dynamics, and the existence of four types of equilibria and tangent points are investigated firstly. Further, the stability of pseudoequilibrium is addressed by using theoretical and numerical methods, and also the local sliding bifurcations including regular/virtual equilibrium bifurcations and boundary node bifurcations are studied. Finally, some global sliding bifurcations are addressed numerically. The globally stable touching cycle indicates that the density of pest population can be successfully maintained below the economic threshold level by designing suitable threshold policy strategies.
Renal Cell Carcinoma Initially Presenting as an Arteriovenous Malformation: A Case Presentation and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Volin Samuel , Steinberg Peter , Mittleider Derek
Published: October 2013

We describe a case of a patient who presented with hematuria and was diagnosed with a renal arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Transcatheter arterial embolization subsequently was performed on this lesion multiple times. Follow-up imaging demonstrated that the AVM was masking an underlying, rapidly growing renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We describe the pathological and radiographic characteristics of AVMs and RCC. We describe the strengths and weaknesses of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect and characterize RCC and AVM. We recommend initial and follow-up MR imaging in patients with an AVM to establish a baseline, monitor treatment response, and survey lesions for underlying and obscured malignancy.
Different Culture Media Affect Proliferation, Surface Epitope Expression, and Differentiation of Ovine MSC
Authors: Adamzyk Carina , Emonds Tanja , Falkenstein Julia , Tolba René , Jahnen-Dechent Wilhelm , Lethaus Bernd , Neuss Sabine
Published: October 2013

Orthopedic implants including engineered bone tissue are commonly tested in sheep. To avoid rejection of heterologous or xenogeneic cells, autologous cells are preferably used, that is, ovine mesenchymal stem cells (oMSC). Unlike human MSC, ovine MSC are not well studied regarding isolation, expansion, and characterization. Here we investigated the impact of culture media composition on growth characteristics, differentiation, and surface antigen expression of oMSC. The culture media varied in fetal calf serum (FCS) content and in the addition of supplements and/or additional epidermal growth factor (EGF). We found that FCS strongly influenced oMSC proliferation and that specific combinations of supplemental factors (MCDB-201, ITS-plus, dexamethasone, and L-ascorbic acid) determined the expression of surface epitopes. We compared two published protocols for oMSC differentiation towards the osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic fate and found (i) considerable donor to donor variations, (ii) protocol-dependent variations, and (iii) variations resulting from the preculture medium composition. Our results indicate that the isolation and culture of oMSC in different growth media are highly variable regarding oMSC phenotype and behaviour. Furthermore, variations from donor to donor critically influence growth rate, surface marker expression, and differentiation.
Multiple Kernel Spectral Regression for Dimensionality Reduction
Authors: Liu Bing , Xia Shixiong , Zhou Yong
Published: October 2013

Traditional manifold learning algorithms, such as locally linear embedding, Isomap, and Laplacian eigenmap, only provide the embedding results of the training samples. To solve the out-of-sample extension problem, spectral regression (SR) solves the problem of learning an embedding function by establishing a regression framework, which can avoid eigen-decomposition of dense matrices. Motivated by the effectiveness of SR, we incorporate multiple kernel learning (MKL) into SR for dimensionality reduction. The proposed approach (termed MKL-SR) seeks an embedding function in the Reproducing Kernel Hilbert Space (RKHS) induced by the multiple base kernels. An MKL-SR algorithm is proposed to improve the performance of kernel-based SR (KSR) further. Furthermore, the proposed MKL-SR algorithm can be performed in the supervised, unsupervised, and semi-supervised situation. Experimental results on supervised classification and semi-supervised classification demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of our algorithm.
Solvability of Some Boundary Value Problems for Fractional -Laplacian Equation
Authors: Chen Taiyong , Liu Wenbin
Published: October 2013

This paper considers the existence of solutions for two boundary value problems for fractional -Laplacian equation. Under certain nonlinear growth conditions of the nonlinearity, two new existence results are obtained by using Schaefer's fixed point theorem. As an application, an example to illustrate our results is given.
Probing Fractionalized Charges
Authors: Alishahiha Mohsen , Allahbakhshi Davood
Published: October 2013

Inspired by the holographic entanglement entropy, for geometries with nonzero abelian charges, we define a quantity which is sensitive to the background charges. One observes that there is a critical charge below the system that is mainly described by the metric, and the effects of the background charges are just via metric's components. For charges above the critical one, the background gauge field plays an essential role. This, in turn, might be used to define an order parameter to probe phases of a system with fractionalized charges.
Multilevel Thresholding Segmentation Based on Harmony Search Optimization
Authors: Oliva Diego , Cuevas Erik , Pajares Gonzalo , Zaldivar Daniel , Perez-Cisneros Marco
Published: October 2013

In this paper, a multilevel thresholding (MT) algorithm based on the harmony search algorithm (HSA) is introduced. HSA is an evolutionary method which is inspired in musicians improvising new harmonies while playing. Different to other evolutionary algorithms, HSA exhibits interesting search capabilities still keeping a low computational overhead. The proposed algorithm encodes random samples from a feasible search space inside the image histogram as candidate solutions, whereas their quality is evaluated considering the objective functions that are employed by the Otsu’s or Kapur’s methods. Guided by these objective values, the set of candidate solutions are evolved through the HSA operators until an optimal solution is found. Experimental results demonstrate the high performance of the proposed method for the segmentation of digital images.
Topical Nitroglycerine for Neonatal Arterial Associated Peripheral Ischemia following Cannulation: A Case Report and Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Mosalli Rafat , Elbaz Mohamed , Paes Bosco
Published: October 2013

Arterial cannulation in neonates is usually performed for frequent blood pressure monitoring and blood sampling. The procedure, while easily executed by skilled neonatal staff, can be associated with serious complications such as vasospasm, thrombosis, embolism, hematoma, infection, peripheral nerve damage, ischemia, and tissue necrosis. Several treatment options are available to reverse vascular induced ischemia and tissue damage. Applied interventions depend on the extent of tissue involvement and whether the condition is progressive and deemed life threatening. Standard, noninvasive measures include immediate catheter removal, limb elevation, and warming the contralateral extremity. Topical vasodilators, anticoagulation, thrombolysis, and surgery are considered secondary therapeutic strategies. A comprehensive literature search indicates that topical nitroglycerin has been utilized for the treatment of tissue ischemia in three preterms with umbilical arterial catheters and four with peripheral arterial lines. We report the first successful use of nitroglycerine ointment in a critically ill preterm infant with ischemic hand changes after brachial artery cannulation.
Stability of -Jordan Homomorphisms from a Normed Algebra to a Banach Algebra
Authors: Lee Yang-Hi
Published: October 2013

We establish the hyperstability of -Jordan homomorphisms from a normed algebra to a Banach algebra, and also we show that an -Jordan homomorphism between two commutative Banach algebras is an -ring homomorphism.
Maternal Hypotension during Fetoscopic Surgery: Incidence and Its Impact on Fetal Survival Outcomes
Authors: Ngamprasertwong Pornswan , Habli Mounira , Boat Anne , Lim Foong Yen , Esslinger Hope , Ding Lili , Sadhasivam Senthilkumar
Published: October 2013

In this retrospective cohort study, we aimed to determine the incidence of intraoperative maternal hypotension during fetoscopic surgery for twin‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and to evaluate the impact of intraoperative hypotension on fetal survival. A total of 328 TTTS patients with recipient twin cardiomyopathy who underwent fetoscopic surgery under epidural anesthesia were included. The exposure of interest was maternal medical therapy with nifedipine for the treatment of fetal cardiomyopathy. We found that intraoperative hypotension occurred in 53.4% (175/328 patients). There was no statistically significant difference in incidence of hypotension between nifedipine exposure and nonexposure groups (54.8% versus 50.8%, P = 0.479). However, the nifedipine exposure group received a statistically significant higher dose of phenylephrine (7.04 ± 6.38 mcg/kg versus 4.70 ± 4.14 mcg/kg, P = 0.018) and higher doses of other vasopressor, as counted by number of treatments (6.06 ± 4.58 versus 4.96 ± 3.42, P = 0.022). There were no statistically significant differences in acute fetal survival rate (within 5 days) and fetal survival rate at birth between hypotensive and nonhypotensive patients. We concluded that preoperative exposure to nifedipine resulted in increased intraoperative maternal vasopressor requirement during fetoscopic surgery under epidural anesthesia. In patients who had intraoperative maternal hypotension, there was no correlation between the presence of maternal hypotension and postoperative fetal survival.
On Current Conversion between Particle Rapidity and Pseudorapidity Distributions in High Energy Collisions
Authors: Liu Fu-Hu , Chen Ya-Hui , Gao Ya-Qin , Wang Er-Qin
Published: October 2013

In high energy collisions, one usually needs to give a conversion between the particle rapidity and pseudorapidity distributions. Currently, two equivalent conversion formulas are used in experimental and theoretical analyses. An investigation in the present work shows that the two conversions are incomplete. Then, we give a revision on the current conversion between the particle rapidity and pseudorapidity distributions.
Implementation of Fictitious Crack Model Using Contact Finite Element Method for the Crack Propagation in Concrete under Cyclic Load
Authors: Zhao Lanhao , Yan Tianyou , Bai Xin , Li Tongchun , Cheng Jing
Published: October 2013

The mixed freedom finite element method proposed for contact problems was extended to simulate the fracture mechanics of concrete using the fictitious crack model. Pairs of contact points were set along the potential developing path of the crack. The displacement of structure was chosen as the basic variable, and the nodal contact force in contact region under local coordinate system was selected as the iteration variable to confine the nonlinear iteration process in the potential contact surface which is more numerically efficient. The contact forces and the opening of the crack were obtained explicitly enabling the softening constitutive relation for the concrete to be introduced conveniently by the fictitious crack model. According to the states of the load and the crack, the constitutive relation of concrete under cyclic load is characterized by six contact states with each contact state denoting its own displacement-stress relation. In this paper, the basic idea of the mixed freedom finite element method as well as the constitutive relation of concrete under cyclic load is presented. A numerical method was proposed to simulate crack propagation process in concrete. The accuracy and capability of the proposed method were verified by a numerical example against experiment data.
Effect of Modified and Nonmodified Carbon Nanotubes on the Rheological Behavior of High Density Polyethylene Nanocomposite
Authors: Ahmad Adewunmi A. , Al-Juhani Abdulhadi A. , Thomas Selvin , De S. K. , Atieh Muataz A.
Published: October 2013

This paper reports the results of studies on the rheological behavior of nanocomposites of high density polyethylene (HDPE) with pristine multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNT) as well as phenol and 1‐octadecanol (C18) functionalized CNT at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 wt% loading. The viscosity reduction at 1 wt% CNT follows the order, pristine CNT < phenol functionalized CNT < C18 functionalized CNT. As the filler loading increases from 1 to 2, 3, and 4 wt%, neat HDPE and filled HDPE systems show similar moduli and viscosity, particularly in the low frequency region. As the filler loading increases further to 5 and 7 wt%, the viscosity and moduli become greater than the neat HDPE. The storage modulus, tanδ, and the Cole‐Cole plots show that CNT network formation occurs at higher CNT loading. The critical CNT loading or the rheological percolation threshold, where network formation occurs is found to be strongly dependant on the functionalization of CNT. For pristine CNT, the rheological percolation threshold is around 4 wt%, but for functionalized CNT it is around 7 wt%. The surface morphologies of CNT and functionalized CNT at 1 wt% loading showed good dispersion while at 7 wt% loading, dispersion was also achieved, but there are few regions with agglomeration of CNT.
Immunohistochemical Analysis of the Activation Status of the Akt/mTOR/pS6 Signaling Pathway in Oral Lichen Planus
Authors: Prodromidis Georgios , Nikitakis Nikolaos G. , Sklavounou Alexandra
Published: October 2013

Introduction. Aberrations of the Akt/mTOR/pS6 pathway have been linked to various types of human cancer, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the activation status of Akt, mTOR, and pS6 in oral lichen planus (OLP) in comparison with oral premalignant and malignant lesions and normal oral mucosa (NM).Materials and Methods. Immunohistochemistry for p-Akt, p-mTOR, and phospho-pS6 was performed in 40 OLP, 20 oral leukoplakias (OL), 10 OSCC, and 10 control samples of NM.Results. Nuclear p-Akt expression was detected in the vast majority of cases in all categories, being significantly higher in OL. Cytoplasmic p-Akt and p-mTOR staining was present only in a minority of OLP cases, being significantly lower compared to OL and OSCC. Phospho-pS6 showed cytoplasmic positivity in most OLP cases, which however was significantly lower compared to OL and OSCC.Conclusions. Overall, cytoplasmic p-Akt, p-mTOR, and phospho-pS6 levels appear to be significantly lower in OLP compared to OL and OSCC. However, the expression of these molecules in a subset of OLP cases suggests that activation of Akt/mTOR/pS6 may occur in the context of OLP, possibly contributing to the premalignant potential of individual cases.
Design and Validation of an Augmented Reality System for Laparoscopic Surgery in a Real Environment
Authors: López-Mir F. , Naranjo V. , Fuertes J. J. , Alcañiz M. , Bueno J. , Pareja E.
Published: October 2013

Purpose. This work presents the protocol carried out in the development and validation of an augmented reality system which was installed in an operating theatre to help surgeons with trocar placement during laparoscopic surgery. The purpose of this validation is to demonstrate the improvements that this system can provide to the field of medicine, particularly surgery.Method. Two experiments that were noninvasive for both the patient and the surgeon were designed. In one of these experiments the augmented reality system was used, the other one was the control experiment, and the system was not used. The type of operation selected for all cases was a cholecystectomy due to the low degree of complexity and complications before, during, and after the surgery. The technique used in the placement of trocars was the French technique, but the results can be extrapolated to any other technique and operation.Results and Conclusion. Four clinicians and ninety-six measurements obtained of twenty-four patients (randomly assigned in each experiment) were involved in these experiments. The final results show an improvement in accuracy and variability of 33% and 63%, respectively, in comparison to traditional methods, demonstrating that the use of an augmented reality system offers advantages for trocar placement in laparoscopic surgery.
Iterative Algorithm for Solving a Class of Quaternion Matrix Equation over the Generalized(P,Q)-Reflexive Matrices
Authors: Li Ning , Wang Qing-Wen
Published: October 2013

The matrix equation∑l=1uAlXBl+∑s=1vCsXTDs=F,which includes some frequently investigated matrix equations as its special cases, plays important roles in the system theory. In this paper, we propose an iterative algorithm for solving the quaternion matrix equation∑l=1uAlXBl+∑s=1vCsXTDs=Fover generalized(P,Q)-reflexive matrices. The proposed iterative algorithm automatically determines the solvability of the quaternion matrix equation over generalized(P,Q)-reflexive matrices. When the matrix equation is consistent over generalized(P,Q)-reflexive matrices, the sequence{X(k)}generated by the introduced algorithm converges to a generalized(P,Q)-reflexive solution of the quaternion matrix equation. And the sequence{X(k)}converges to the least Frobenius norm generalized(P,Q)-reflexive solution of the quaternion matrix equation when an appropriate initial iterative matrix is chosen. Furthermore, the optimal approximate generalized(P,Q)-reflexive solution for a given generalized(P,Q)-reflexive matrixX0can be derived. The numerical results indicate that the iterative algorithm is quite efficient.
Effect of Mandrel on Cross-Section Quality in Numerical Control Bending Process of Stainless Steel 2169 Small Diameter Tube
Authors: Fang Jun , Lu Shiqiang , Wang Kelu , Xu Jianmei , Xu Xiaomei , Yao Zhengjun
Published: October 2013

The tube numerical control (NC) bending process is a much complex physical process with multifactors coupling interactive effects. The mandrel is the key to improve forming quality and to enhance forming limit. In this study, based on the platform of ABAQUS/Explicit, a 3D elastic-plastic finite element model of NC bending process of 2169 (0Cr21Ni6Mn9N) stainless steel tube was established, key technological problems were solved, and its reliability was validated. Then, simulation and analysis of the processes were carried out, and the influence laws of mandrel types and mandrel parameters on cross-section quality were obtained. The results show that the wall thinning or cross section deformation is serious at the middle part and small in the vicinity of the bending plane or initial bending plane; the wall thinning degree increases or the cross section deformation degree decreases with the increase of mandrel diameter or mandrel extension length; the effect of bulb mandrel on the cross section quality is more significant than that of cylinder mandrel. And the reasonable mandrel types and mandrel parameters are chosen for the 2169 high-pressure hydraulic tube with small diameter. The results may lead to better understanding of mandrel role in the improvement of forming quality and forming limit in the NC bending process.
The Solvability and Optimal Controls for Some Fractional Impulsive Equation
Authors: Liu Xianghu , Liu Zhenhai , Han Jiangfeng
Published: October 2013

This paper is concerned with the existence and uniqueness of mild solution of some fractional impulsive equations. Firstly, we introduce the fractional calculus, Gronwall inequality, and Leray-Schauder’s fixed point theorem. Secondly with the help of them, the sufficient condition for the existence and uniqueness of solutions is presented. Finally we give an example to illustrate our main results.
A TaqMan Real‐Time PCR Assay for Detection and Quantification of Sporisorium scitamineum in Sugarcane
Authors: Su Yachun , Wang Shanshan , Guo Jinlong , Xue Bantong , Xu Liping , Que Youxiong
Published: October 2013

Sporisorium scitamineum is a fungal smut pathogen epidemic in sugarcane producing areas. Early detection and proper identification of the smut are an essential requirement in its management practice. In this study, we developed a TaqMan real‐time PCR assay using specific primers (bEQ‐F/bEQ‐R) and a TaqMan probe (bEQ‐P) which were designed based on the bE (b East mating type) gene (Genbank Accession no. U61290.1). This method was more sensitive (a detection limit of 10 ag pbE DNA and 0.8 ng sugarcane genomic DNA) than that of conventional PCR (10 fg and 100 ng, resp.). Reliability was demonstrated through the positive detection of samples collected from artificially inoculated sugarcane plantlets (FN40). This assay was capable of detecting the smut pathogen at the initial stage (12 h) of infection and suitable for inspection of sugarcane pathogen‐free seed cane and seedlings. Furthermore, quantification of pathogen was verified in pathogen‐challenged buds in different sugarcane genotypes, which suggested its feasibility for evaluation of smut resistance in different sugarcane genotypes. Taken together, this novel assay can be used as a diagnostic tool for sensitive, accurate, fast, and quantitative detection of the smut pathogen especially for asymptomatic seed cane or plants and evaluation of smut resistance of sugarcane genotypes.
Combined Targeting of PDK1 and EGFR Triggers Regression of Glioblastoma by Reversing the Warburg Effect
Authors: Velpula Kiran Kumar , Bhasin Arnima , Asuthkar Swapna , Tsung Andrew J.
Published: October 2013

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most aggressive primary brain tumor in adults. Overexpression of the EGF receptor (EGFR) is recognized as a widespread oncogenic signature in glioblastoma multiforme, but the complexity of its contributions is not fully understood, nor the most effective ways to leverage anti-EGFR therapy in this setting. Hypoxia is known to drive the aggressive character of glioblastoma multiforme by promoting aerobic glycolysis rather than pyruvate oxidation carried out in mitochondria (OXPHOS), a phenomenon termed the Warburg effect, which is a general feature of oncogenesis. In this study, we report that hypoxia drives expression of the pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK1) and EGFR along with the hypoxia-inducing factor (HIF)-1α in human glioblastoma multiforme cells. PDK1 is a HIF-1–regulated gene and our findings indicated that hypoxia-induced PDK1 expression may promote EGFR activation, initiating a feed-forward loop that can sustain malignant progression. RNAi-mediated attenuation of PDK1 and EGFR lowered PDK1-EGFR activation and decreased HIF-1α expression, shifting the Warburg phenotype to OXPHOS and inhibiting glioblastoma multiforme growth and proliferation. In clinical specimens of glioblastoma multiforme, we found that immunohistochemical expression of PDK1, EGFR, and HIF-1α were elevated in glioblastoma multiforme specimens when compared with normal brain tissues. Collectively, our studies establish PDK1 as a key driver and candidate therapeutic target in glioblastoma multiforme. Cancer Res; 73(24); 7277–89. ©2013 AACR.
Age Is Predictive of Immediate Postoperative Urinary Continence after Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy
Authors: Campodonico Fabio , Manuputty Egi Edward , Campora Sara , Puntoni Matteo , Maffezzini Massimo
Published: October 2013

Introduction: Immediate continence is a goal to take into consideration for better patient satisfaction after radical prostatectomy. Factors predicting urinary continence at catheter removal were investigated. Materials and Methods: We evaluated preoperative, operative, clinical, hormonal and pathological variables in a homogeneous series of radical retropubic prostatectomies (RRPs) following the principles of urinary sphincter restoration technique. Results: The study included 201 patients who underwent RRP. The overall immediate continence rate at catheter removal was 67.7% (136 patients); 28.8% (58 patients) were using one protective pad daily and 3.5% (7 patients) were incontinent. At 6-month follow-up incontinence had reached the lowest level of 2.5% (5 patients) and at 12 months the patients using one pad daily had decreased to 11.9% (24 patients). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that the only two factors independently associated with immediate continence were age <65 years (OR = 2.63, 95% CI 1.13-5.88, p = 0.02) and potency (OR = 3.6, 95% CI 1.2-10.7, p = 0.01) adjusting for D'Amico risk group, surgical margins, extracapsular extension, clinical stage, PSA, testosterone, LH and FSH. No significant association was noted for PSA, hormonal levels, hospital stay, prostate size, clinical stage, risk group, TNM stage, pathological Gleason score or extracapsular extension. Conclusions: In our series age <65 years was associated with immediate continence after RRP. Moreover, patients who were immediately continent had a 3.6-fold probability to be potent within 12 months.
Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation as the First-Line Treatment for Peripheral T Cell Lymphoma: Results of a Comprehensive Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yin J. , Wei J. , Xu J.H. , Xiao Y. , Zhang Y.C.
Published: October 2013

Objective: In view of the poor prognosis of most peripheral T cell lymphoma (PTCL) subtypes treated with conventional chemotherapy such as CHOP/CHOP-like regimens, high-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (HDT/ASCT) seems a reasonable option in eligible patients. Nevertheless, owing to the small size of the study and the heterogeneity of most published series, a consensus on the role of ASCT as the first-line consolidation therapy for high-risk PTCL patients has not been reached so far. Study Design: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBSCO, Web of Science, clinicaltrials.gov and the Cochrane Library. Hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by a fixed/random effect model. Results: Twenty-one studies were eligible. Although no statistical significance was observed in these studies, there was a trend toward survival advantage for the HDT/ASCT group as compared to the historical control group (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.31-2.13). Statistical differences were confirmed in terms of overall survival (OS) between complete remission (CR) and non-CR patients (HR 3.17, 95% CI 0.92-5.42), patients with good and poor risk according to the International Prognostic Index (IPI; HR 0.36, 95% CI 0.22-0.60, I2 49%) and Prognostic Index for PTCL (PIT; HR 0.31, 95% CI 0.17-0.58; HR 0.31, 95% CI 0.18-0.54). Conclusion: The clear and convincing proof of the effects of up-front HDT/ASCT still depends on sufficient large PTCL-restricted randomized trials in the future. Patients who failed to attain CR before transplant exhibited a worse prognosis; patients with good risk of IPI or PIT had a substantially better OS after ASCT.
The Therapeutic Effects of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Models
Authors: Chang Keun-A. , Kim Hee Jin , Joo Yuyoung , Ha Sungji , Suh Yoo-Hun
Published: October 2013

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible neurodegenerative disease, still lacking proper clinical treatment. Therefore, many researchers have focused on the possibility of therapeutic use of stem cells for AD. Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from adipose tissue, are well known for their pluripotency and their ability to differentiate into multiple tissue types and have immune modulatory properties similar to those of MSCs from other origins. Because of their biological properties, ASCs can be considered for cell therapy and neuroregeneration. Our recent results clearly showed the therapeutic potential of these cells after transplantation into Tg2576 mice (an AD mouse model). Intravenously or intracerebrally transplanted human ASCs (hASCs) greatly improved the memory impairment and the neuropathology, suggesting that hASCs have a high therapeutic potential for AD.
Neurological Injury After Neonatal Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Algra Selma O. , Jansen Nicolaas J.G. , van der Tweel Ingeborg , Schouten Antonius N.J. , Groenendaal Floris , Toet Mona , van Oeveren Wim , van Haastert Ingrid C. , Schoof Paul H. , de Vries Linda S. , Haas Felix
Published: October 2013

Background—

Complex neonatal cardiac surgery is associated with cerebral injury. In particular, aortic arch repair, requiring either deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) or antegrade cerebral perfusion (ACP), entails a high risk of perioperative injury. It is unknown whether ACP results in less cerebral injury than DHCA.

Methods and Results—

Thirty-seven neonates with an aortic arch obstruction presenting for univentricular or biventricular repair were randomized to either DHCA or ACP. Preoperatively and 1 week after surgery, magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 36 patients (1 patient died during the hospital stay). The presence of new postoperative cerebral injury was scored, and results were entered into a sequential analysis, which allows for immediate data analysis. After the 36th patient, it was clear that there was no difference between DHCA and ACP in terms of new cerebral injury. Preoperatively, 50% of patients had evidence of cerebral injury. Postoperatively, 14 of 18 DHCA patients (78%) had new injury versus 13 of 18 ACP patients (72%) (
P
=0.66). White matter injury was the most common type of injury in both groups, but central infarctions occurred exclusively after ACP (0 vs 6/18 [33%];
P
=0.02). Early motor and cognitive outcomes at 24 months were assessed and were similar between groups (
P
=0.28 and
P
=0.25, respectively). Additional analysis revealed lower postoperative arterial P
co
2
as a risk factor for new white matter injury (
P
=0.04).

Conclusions—

In this group of neonates undergoing complex cardiac surgery, we were unable to demonstrate a difference in the incidence of perioperative cerebral injury after ACP compared with DHCA. Both techniques resulted in a high incidence of new white matter injury, with central infarctions occurring exclusively after ACP.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01032876.
Very Low Quality of Life After Acute Stroke
Authors: Sprigg Nikola , Selby James , Fox Lydia , Berge Eivind , Whynes David , Bath Philip M.W.
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose—

Health-related quality of life, a key outcome after stroke, plays a role in the analysis of treatment cost-effectiveness. Some measures of health-related quality of life allow for a quality of life worse than death; the characteristics of such patients have not been well described.

Methods—

Data from the Efficacy of Nitric Oxide in Stroke (ENOS) trial were used to explore health-related quality of life after stroke. The EuroQol questionnaire (EQ-5D) was performed at day 90, and a health utility score (HUS) was calculated. HUS was defined as follows: poor-good HUS >0, death HUS=0, and very poor HUS <0. The characteristics and outcomes of patients with HUS <0 were then explored.

Results—

Of the 2569 patients, 303 (11.8%) died, and of the 2238 with quality of life data available, of whom 724 (32.3%) were completed by a proxy, 1959 (87.5%) had an HUS >0 and 279 (12.5%) had an HUS <0. Patients with HUS <0 were more likely to be older, women, have severe stroke, have proxy responders, and be institutionalized. Dominant hemisphere strokes were more likely to have proxy responders but not HUS <0. HUS was strongly correlated with dependency (modified Rankin Scale,
r
=−0.78) and disability (Barthel index,
r
=0.84) and moderately correlated with mood (Zung depression score,
r
=−0.59) and baseline severity (
r
=0.51). All but 1 patient with modified Rankin Scale of 5 had an HUS <0.

Conclusions—

Very low health-related quality of life is relatively common after stroke, particularly in patients with mobility problems or who are dependent on help for usual activities, and is related to poor functional outcome measures.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.controlled-trials.com/
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN99414122.
Dorsolateral pFC and the Representation of the Incorrect Use of an Object: The Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Effect on N400 for Visual and Linguistic Stimuli
Authors: Balconi Michela , Vitaloni Silvia
Published: October 2013

In this study, we explored the representation of an incongruent action (instrumentally incorrect use of an object) in comparison with sentences ending with an incongruent action word, taking into account the role of the activation of the left dorsolateral pFC (DLPFC). This activity was appositely modulated by transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). The effect of tDCS when participants processed congruent/incongruent object-related actions (Experiment 1) or sentences (Experiment 2) was verified by measuring changes in the ERP N400, error rates (ERs), and RTs. In Experiment 1, 30 participants performed the detection task within a dynamic context (video tapes representing a sequence of four action frames). In Experiment 2, 28 participants read sentences that represented object-related actions. The stimulation effect (a cathode applied to the DLPFC and an anode to the right supraorbital region) was analyzed by comparing the ER, RT, and ERP profiles before and after stimulation (or sham treatment). A significant reduction of the N400 was observed for incongruent stimuli in the case of cathodal (inhibitory) stimulation of the DLPFC in comparison with prestimulation conditions for Experiment 1, but not Experiment 2. Moreover, ERs were increased, and RTs were reduced in response to incongruent conditions after tDCS, but not after sham stimulation in Experiment 1. It is suggested that perturbation of the DLPFC may limit the ability to analyze a semantically anomalous action sequence as a reduced N400 ERP effect and increased random responses was observed. Finally, the contribution of the frontal area to the semantic processing of actions is discussed.