bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Semianalytical Solutions for Stiff Systems of Ordinary Differential Equations by Using Variational Iteration Method and Modified Variational Iteration Method with Comparison to Exact Solutions
Authors: Atay Mehmet Tarik , Kilic Okan
Published: April 2013

The Variational Iteration Method (VIM) and Modified Variational Iteration Method (MVIM) are used to find solutions of systems of stiff ordinary differential equations for both linear and nonlinear problems. Some examples are given to illustrate the accuracy and effectiveness of these methods. We compare our results with exact results. In some studies related to stiff ordinary differential equations, problems were solved by Adomian Decomposition Method and VIM and Homotopy Perturbation Method. Comparisons with exact solutions reveal that the Variational Iteration Method (VIM) and the Modified Variational Iteration Method (MVIM) are easier to implement. In fact, these methods are promising methods for various systems of linear and nonlinear stiff ordinary differential equations. Furthermore, VIM, or in some cases MVIM, is giving exact solutions in linear cases and very satisfactory solutions when compared to exact solutions for nonlinear cases depending on the stiffness ratio of the stiff system to be solved.
Evaluation of Clinical Interest of Anti-Aquaporin-4 Autoantibody Followup in Neuromyelitis Optica
Authors: Chanson Jean-Baptiste , Alame Melissa , Collongues Nicolas , Blanc Frédéric , Fleury Marie , Rudolf Gabrielle , de Seze Jérôme , Vincent Thierry
Published: April 2013

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune disease in which a specific biomarker named NMO-IgG and directed against aquaporin-4 (AQP4) has been found. A correlation between disease activity and anti-AQP4 antibody (Ab) serum concentration or complement-mediated cytotoxicity has been reported, but the usefulness of longitudinal evaluation of these parameters remains to be evaluated in actual clinical practice. Thirty serum samples from 10 NMO patients positive for NMO-IgG were collected from 2006 to 2011. Anti-AQP4 Ab serum concentration and complement-mediated cytotoxicity were measured by flow cytometry using two quantitative cell-based assays (CBA) and compared with clinical parameters. We found a strong correlation between serum anti-AQP4 Ab concentration and complement-mediated cytotoxicity (P<0.0001). Nevertheless, neither relapse nor worsening of impairment level was closely associated with a significant increase in serum Ab concentration or cytotoxicity. These results suggest that complement-mediated serum cytotoxicity assessment does not provide extra insight compared to anti-AQP4 Ab serum concentration. Furthermore, none of these parameters appears closely related to disease activity and/or severity. Therefore, in clinical practice, serum anti-AQP4 reactivity seems not helpful as a predictive biomarker in the followup of NMO patients as a means of predicting the onset of a relapse and adapting the treatment accordingly.
Transarterial Treatment of Direct Carotid Cavernous Fistulas with the Assistance of Undetachable Balloons
Authors: Xu Ning , Wang Yubo , Luo Qi , Wang Honglei
Published: April 2013

Directed carotid cavernous fistula means high blood flow shunts between the internal carotid artery and the cavernous sinus. Obstructing the abnormal shunt between the internal carotid artery and the cavernous sinus while preserving the internal carotid artery is the key role in fistula treatment. Transarterial balloon embolization is currently the gold standard treatment for most of the carotid cavernous fistulas. But there are still some technical difficulties in the use of detachable balloon to treat carotid cavernous fistulas. Here, we describe undetachable balloon-assisted technique in the embolization of three patients who got complete immediate occlusion of the shunt and preserved the internal carotid artery at the same time.
Modulation of Brain Electroencephalography Oscillations by Electroacupuncture in a Rat Model of Postincisional Pain
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Jing , Li Xuezhu , Li Duan , Li Xiao-Li , Han Ji-Sheng , Wan You
Published: April 2013

The present study aimed to investigate how ongoing brain rhythmical oscillations changed during the postoperative pain and whether electroacupuncture (EA) regulated these brain oscillations when it relieved pain. We established a postincisional pain model of rats with plantar incision to mimic the clinical pathological pain state, tested the analgesic effects of EA, and recorded electroencephalography (EEG) activities before and after the EA application. By analysis of power spectrum and bicoherence of EEG, we found that in rats with postincisional pain, ongoing activities at the delta-frequency band decreased, while activities at theta-, alpha-, and beta-frequency bands increased. EA treatment on these postincisional pain rats decreased the power at high-frequency bands especially at the beta-frequency band and reversed the enhancement of the cross-frequency coupling strength between the beta band and low-frequency bands. After searching for the PubMed, our study is the first time to describe that brain oscillations are correlated with the processing of spontaneous pain information in postincisional pain model of rats, and EA could regulate these brain rhythmical frequency oscillations, including the power and cross-frequency couplings.
Cure Cycle Effect on High-Temperature Polymer Composite Structures Molded by VARTM
Authors: Khattab Ahmed
Published: April 2013

This paper presents an analytical and experimental investigation of cure cycle effect on carbon-fiber reinforced high-temperature polymer composite structures molded by vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). The molded composite structure consists of AS4-8 harness carbon-fiber fabrics and a high-temperature polymer (Cycom 5250-4-RTM). Thermal and resin cure analysis is performed to model the cure cycle of the VARTM process. The temperature and cure variations with time are determined by solving the three-dimensional transient energy and species equations within the composite part. Several case studies were investigated by the developed analytical model. The same cases were also experimentally investigated to determine the ultimate tensile strength for each case. This study helps in developing a science based technology for the VARTM process for the understanding of the process behavior and the effect of the cure cycle on the properties of the molded high-temperature polymer composites.
Late Lung Metastasis of a Primary Eccrine Sweat Gland Carcinoma 10 Years after Initial Surgical Treatment: The First Clinical Documentation
Authors: Falkenstern-Ge R. F. , Bode-Erdmann S. , Ott G. , Wohlleber M. , Kohlhäufl M.
Published: April 2013

Background. Sweat gland carcinoma is a rare malignancy with a high metastatic potential seen more commonly in elderly patients. The scalp is the most common site of occurrence and it usually spreads to regional lymph nodes. Liver, lungs, and bones are the most common sites of distant metastasis. Late lung metastasis of sweat gland adenocarcinoma after a time span of 5 years is extremely rare.Aim. We report a patient with late lung metastasis of a primary sweat gland carcinoma 10 years after initial surgical resection.Conclusion. Sweat gland carcinomas are rare cancers with a poor prognosis. Surgery in the form of wide local excision and lymph node dissection is the mainstay of treatment. Late pulmonary metastases with a latency of 10 years have never been reported in the literature. This is the first clinical documentation of late lung metastasis from sweat gland carcinoma with a latency period of 10 years.
Expanding the Role of Primary Care in the Prevention and Treatment of Childhood Obesity: A Review of Clinic- and Community-Based Recommendations and Interventions
Authors: Vine Michaela , Hargreaves Margaret B. , Briefel Ronette R. , Orfield Cara
Published: April 2013

Although pediatric providers have traditionally assessed and treated childhood obesity and associated health-related conditions in the clinic setting, there is a recognized need to expand the provider role. We reviewed the literature published from 2005 to 2012 to (1) provide examples of the spectrum of roles that primary care providers can play in the successful treatment and prevention of childhood obesity in both clinic and community settings and (2) synthesize the evidence of important characteristics, factors, or strategies in successful community-based models. The review identified 96 articles that provide evidence of how primary care providers can successfully prevent and treat childhood obesity by coordinating efforts within the primary care setting and through linkages to obesity prevention and treatment resources within the community. By aligning the most promising interventions with recommendations published over the past decade by the Institute of Medicine, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and other health organizations, we present nine areas in which providers can promote the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity through efforts in clinical and community settings: weight status assessment and monitoring, healthy lifestyle promotion, treatment, clinician skill development, clinic infrastructure development, community program referrals, community health education, multisector community initiatives, and policy advocacy.
An Analysis of Canadian Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing through the Junctures of History, Gender, Nursing Education, and Quality of Work Life in Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan
Authors: Smith Mary , Khanlou Nazilla
Published: April 2013

A society that values mental health and helps people live enjoyable and meaningful lives is a clear aspiration echoed throughout our Canadian health care system. The Mental Health Commission of Canada has put forth a framework for a mental health strategy with goals that reflect the virtue of optimal mental health for all Canadians (Mental Health Commission Canada, 2009). Canadian nurses, the largest group of health care workers, have a vital role in achieving these goals. In Canada, two-thirds of those who experience mental health problems do not receive mental health services (Statistics Canada, 2003). Through a gendered, critical, and sociological perspective the goal of this paper is to further understand how the past has shaped the present state of psychiatric mental health nursing (PMHN). This integrative literature review offers a depiction of Canadian PMHN in light of the intersections of history, gender, education, and quality of nursing work life. Fourteen articles were selected, which provide a partial
reflection of contemporary Canadian PMHN. Findings include the association between gender and professional status, inconsistencies in psychiatric nursing education, and the limitations for Canadian nurse practitioners to advance the role of the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Integrally Small Perturbations of Semigroups and Stability of Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Gil' Michael
Published: April 2013

Let be a generator of an exponentially stable
operator semigroup in a Banach space,
and let   be a linear bounded variable operator.
Assuming that is sufficiently small in a certain sense for the equation
, we derive exponential stability conditions.
Besides, we do not require that for each , the “frozen”
autonomous equation is stable. In particular, we consider
evolution equations with periodic operator coefficients.
These results are applied to partial differential equations.
Characterization of Chemical Composition of Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae Volatile Oil by Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography with High-Resolution Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Qin Kunming , Zheng Lijuan , Cai Hao , Cao Gang , Lou Yajing , Lu Tulin , Shu Yachun , Zhou Wei , Cai Baochang
Published: April 2013

Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae (Chenpi in Chinese) has been widely used as an herbal medicine in Korea, China, and Japan. Chenpi extracts are used to treat indigestion and inflammatory syndromes of the respiratory tract such as bronchitis and asthma. This thesis will analyze chemical compositions of Chenpi volatile oil, which was performed by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC-HR-TOFMS). One hundred and sixty-seven components were tentatively identified, and terpene compounds are the main components of Chenpi volatile oil, a significant larger number than in previous studies. The majority of the eluted compounds, which were identified, were well separated as a result of high-resolution capability of the GC × GC method, which significantly reduces, the coelution.β-Elemene is tentatively qualified by means of GC × GC in tandem with high-resolution TOFMS detection, which plays an important role in enhancing the effects of many anticancer drugs and in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy. This study suggests that GC × GC-HR-TOFMS is suitable for routine characterization of chemical composition of volatile oil in herbal medicines.
Verification of Mixed-Signal Systems with Affine Arithmetic Assertions
Authors: Radojicic Carna , Grimm Christoph , Schupfer Florian , Rathmair Michael
Published: April 2013

Embedded systems include an increasing share of analog/mixed-signal components that are tightly interwoven with functionality of digital HW/SW systems. A challenge for verification is that even small deviations in analog components can lead to significant changes in system properties. In this paper we propose the combination of range-based, semisymbolic simulation with assertion checking. We show that this approach combines advantages, but as well some limitations, of multirun simulations with formal techniques. The efficiency of the proposed method is demonstrated by several examples.
Synthesis of New Schiff Base from Natural Products for Remediation of Water Pollution with Heavy Metals in Industrial Areas
Authors: Hassan Reham , Arida Hassan , Montasser Manal , Abdel Latif Nehad
Published: April 2013

A resin of [5‐((E)‐1‐(ethylimino) ethyl)‐4, 7‐dimethoxy benzofuran‐6‐ol] Schiff base (EEDB) was prepared, characterized, and successfully applied in the removal of Cu (II) ions from aqueous real samples. While the metal cation was detected using ICP‐OES, the prepared Schiff base resin was characterized by means of FTIR, 1HNMR, mass spectral data, and elemental analysis. Various factors affecting the uptake behavior such as pH (2–12), contact time, effect of initial metal concentration (10–250 ppm), and effect of Schiff base weight (0.1–1.5 gm) were studied. The adsorption process was relatively fast and equilibrium was established after about 60 min. The optimum initial pH was 8.0 at a metal ion concentration (100 ppm). Under the optimized conditions, the removal of Cu (II) from real samples of tap water was applied and the removal efficiency reached nearly 85%. The biological activity for Schiff base was also investigated. The results showed that there is no significant difference between the effects of Schiff base on serum (alanine amino transferase) ALT and creatinine concentration activities in treated mice and control, at confidence limits 95%.
Pomegranate Juice Metabolites, Ellagic Acid and Urolithin A, Synergistically Inhibit Androgen-Independent Prostate Cancer Cell Growth via Distinct Effects on Cell Cycle Control and Apoptosis
Authors: Vicinanza Roberto , Zhang Yanjun , Henning Susanne M. , Heber David
Published: April 2013

Ellagitannins (ETs) from pomegranate juice (PJ) are bioactive polyphenols with chemopreventive potential against prostate cancer (PCa). ETs are not absorbed intact but are partially hydrolyzed in the gut to ellagic acid (EA). Colonic microflora can convert EA to urolithin A (UA), and EA and UA enter the circulation after PJ consumption. Here, we studied the effects of EA and UA on cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis in DU-145 and PC-3 androgen-independent PCa cells and whether combinations of EA and UA affected cell proliferation. EA demonstrated greater dose-dependent antiproliferative effects in both cell lines compared to UA. EA induced cell cycle arrest in S phase associated with decreased cyclin B1 and cyclin D1 levels. UA induced a G2/M arrest and increased cyclin B1 and cdc2 phosphorylation at tyrosine-15, suggesting inactivation of the cyclin B1/cdc2 kinase complex. EA induced apoptosis in both cell lines, while UA had a less pronounced proapoptotic effect only in DU-145. Cotreatment with low concentrations of EA and UA dramatically decreased cell proliferation, exhibiting synergism in PC-3 cells evaluated by isobolographic analysis and combination index. These data provide information on pomegranate metabolites for the prevention of PCa recurrence, supporting the role of gut flora-derived metabolites for cancer prevention.
Pressure Change in Tee Branch Pipe in Oscillatory Flow
Authors: Sakamoto Daisuke , Youn Chongho , Kagawa Toshiharu
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the understanding of unsteady flow of branch pipes in pneumatic systems. Branch pipes are used in pneumatic pipe systems in various industrial fields. To predict the unsteady pressure changes in the pneumatic piping systems, it is necessary that the dynamic characteristics of branch pipes are at hand, in addition to the dynamic characteristic of single pipe. However, while so many studies are accumulated for a single pipe dynamics, few studies have reported the pressure changes in branch pipes due to oscillatory flow. This paper reports an experimental study on the dynamic characteristics of the pressure change in a pneumatic branch pipe under given oscillatory flow. The paper also proposes a simulation method to predict the pressure changes in a pneumatic branch pipe under oscillatory flow. The validity of simulation is verified for oscillatory flows up to 5 Hz, comparing with the experimental results.
Attribute Index and Uniform Design Based Multiobjective Association Rule Mining with Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Jie , Wang Yuping , Feng Junhong
Published: April 2013

In association rule mining, evaluating an association rule needs to repeatedly scan database to compare the whole database with the antecedent, consequent of a rule and the whole rule. In order to decrease the number of comparisons and time consuming, we present an attribute index strategy. It only needs to scan database once to create the attribute index of each attribute. Then all metrics values to evaluate an association rule do not need to scan database any further, but acquire data only by means of the attribute indices. The paper visualizes association rule mining as a multiobjective problem rather than a single objective one. In order to make the acquired solutions scatter uniformly toward the Pareto frontier in the objective space, elitism policy and uniform design are introduced. The paper presents the algorithm of attribute index and uniform design based multiobjective association rule mining with evolutionary algorithm, abbreviated as IUARMMEA. It does not require the user‐specified minimum support and minimum confidence anymore, but uses a simple attribute index. It uses a well‐designed real encoding so as to extend its application scope. Experiments performed on several databases demonstrate that the proposed algorithm has excellent performance, and it can significantly reduce the number of comparisons and time consumption.
An Integrative Approach to Understand the Climatic-Hydrological Process: A Case Study of Yarkand River, Northwest China
Authors: Xu Jianhua , Xu Yiwen , Song Chunan
Published: April 2013

Taking the Yarkand River as an example, this paper conducted an integrative approach combining the Durbin-Watson statistic test (DWST), multiple linear regression (MLR), wavelet analysis (WA), coefficient of determination (CD), and Akaike information criterion (AIC) to analyze the climatic-hydrological process of inland river, Northwest China from a multitime scale perspective. The main findings are as follows. (1) The hydrologic and climatic variables, that is, annual runoff (AR), annual average temperature, (AAT) and annual precipitation (AP), are stochastic and, no significant autocorrelation. (2) The variation patterns of runoff, temperature, and precipitation were scale dependent in time. AR, AAT, and AP basically present linear trends at 16-year and 32-year scales, but they show nonlinear fluctuations at 2-year and 4-year scales. (3) The relationship between AR with AAT and AP was simulated by the multiple linear regression equation (MLRE) based on wavelet analysis at each time scale. But the simulated effect at a larger time scale is better than that at a smaller time scale.
Remote Effect of Lower Limb Acupuncture on Latent Myofascial Trigger Point of Upper Trapezius Muscle: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chen Kai-Hua , Hsiao Kuang-Yu , Lin Chu-Hsu , Chang Wen-Ming , Hsu Hung-Chih , Hsieh Wei-Chi
Published: April 2013

Objectives. To demonstrate the use of acupuncture in the lower limbs to treat myofascial pain of the upper trapezius muscles via a remote effect.Methods. Five adults with latent myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) of bilateral upper trapezius muscles received acupuncture at Weizhong (UB40) and Yanglingquan (GB34) points in the lower limbs. Modified acupuncture was applied at these points on a randomly selected ipsilateral lower limb (experimental side) versus sham needling on the contralateral lower limb (control side) in each subject. Each subject received two treatments within a one-week interval. To evaluate the remote effect of acupuncture, the range of motion (ROM) upon bending the contralateral side of the cervical spine was assessed before and after each treatment.Results. There was significant improvement in cervical ROM after the second treatment (P=0.03) in the experimental group, and the increased ROM on the modified acupuncture side was greater compared to the sham needling side (P=0.036).Conclusions. A remote effect of acupuncture was demonstrated in this pilot study. Using modified acupuncture needling at remote acupuncture points in the ipsilateral lower limb, our treatments released tightness due to latent MTrPs of the upper trapezius muscle.
The Need for Improved Detection and Management of Adult-Onset Hearing Loss in Australia
Authors: McMahon Catherine M. , Gopinath Bamini , Schneider Julie , Reath Jennifer , Hickson Louise , Leeder Stephen R. , Mitchell Paul , Cowan Robert
Published: April 2013

Adult-onset hearing loss is insidious and typically diagnosed and managed several years after onset. Often, this is after the loss having led to multiple negative consequences including effects on employment, depressive symptoms, and increased risk of mortality. In contrast, the use of hearing aids is associated with reduced depression, longer life expectancy, and retention in the workplace. Despite this, several studies indicate high levels of unmet need for hearing health services in older adults and poor use of prescribed hearing aids, often leading to their abandonment. In Australia, the largest component of financial cost of hearing loss (excluding the loss of well-being) is due to lost workplace productivity. Nonetheless, the Australian public health system does not have an effective and sustainable hearing screening strategy to tackle the problem of poor detection of adult-onset hearing loss. Given the increasing prevalence and disease burden of hearing impairment in adults, two key areas are not adequately met in the Australian healthcare system: (1) early identification of persons with chronic hearing impairment; (2) appropriate and targeted referral of these patients to hearing health service providers. This paper reviews the current literature, including population-based data from the Blue Mountains Hearing Study, and suggests different models for early detection of adult-onset hearing loss.
Nrf2 Is a Protective Factor against Oxidative Stresses Induced by Diesel Exhaust Particle in Allergic Asthma
Authors: Li Ying-Ji , Kawada Tomoyuki , Azuma Arata
Published: April 2013

Epidemiological studies have shown that air pollutants, such as diesel exhaust particle (DEP), are implicated in the increased incidence of allergic airway disorders.In vitrostudies of molecular mechanisms have focused on the role of reactive oxygen species generated directly and indirectly by the exposure to DEP. Antioxidants effectively reduce the allergic inflammatory effects induced by DEP bothin vitroandin vivo. On the other hand, Nrf2 is a transcription factor essential for the inducible and/or constitutive expression of phase II and antioxidant enzymes. Disruption ofNrf2enhances susceptibility to airway inflammatory responses and exacerbation of allergic inflammation induced by DEP in mice. Host responses to DEP are regulated by a balance between antioxidants and proinflammatory responses. Nrf2 may be an important protective factor against oxidative stresses induced by DEP in airway inflammation and allergic asthma and is expected to contribute to chemoprevention against DEP health effects in susceptible individuals.
Numerical Investigation of Forced Convection in a Channel with Solid Block inside a Square Porous Block
Authors: Janzadeh Neda , Aghajani Delavar Mojtaba
Published: April 2013

The fluid flow and heat transfer in a porous medium have received considerable attention due to its importance in many engineering applications. In this study numerical investigation of fluid flow and heat transfer over a hot solid block inside a square porous block located in a channel was carried out. The lattice Boltzmann method with nine velocities, D2Q9, was used for numerical simulations. Brinkman-Forchheimer model was successfully used to simulate fluid flow in porous media. The effects of parameters such as porosity, Reynolds number on flow pattern, and heat transfer were studied. The different effects of mentioned parameters were discussed in the paper.
Improved Security Patch on Secure Communication among Cell Phones and Sensor Networks
Authors: Bruce Ndibanje , Kim Tae-Yong , Lee Hoon Jae
Published: April 2013

The communication between cell phones and sensor networks involves strong user authentication protocols to ensure the data and network security. Generally, in order to obtain the relevant information, cell phones interact with sensor networks via gateways. In 2009, according to Arjan Durresi and Vamsi Paruchuri scheme, this unique ability is used to provide better authentication and security protocols that can be used to establish secure communications among cell phones and sensor networks. In this paper, we show that their scheme is vulnerable to known attacks such as man-in-the-middle attack and reply attack, and it does not provide mutual authentication between gateway node and cell phone. In addition, it does not establish session key after the authentication phase. To fill this security gap, we proposed security patches and improvements, which overcome the weak features in the scheme of Arjan Durresi and Vamsi Paruchuri. Finally, we came out with results which show that our improved security patch establishes trust between the cell phone and gateway in the form of mutual authentication and provides the session key establishment after the authentication phase.
Unusual Manifestation of Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Alghamdi Aisha A. , Awan Faiza S. , Maniyar Iqbal H. , Alghamdi Naif A.
Published: April 2013

Though commonly encountered, extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB) can sometimes present with variable clinical picture intricating the diagnosis (Avasthi et al., 2010). The nonspecific symptoms include pyrexia of unknown origin, hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, meningitis, and, rarely, variety of hematological abnormalities, namely, anemia, pancytopenia, and leukemoid reaction (Avasthi et al., 2010). When it presents with bone marrow (BM) involvement, prognosis is usually poor (Avasthi et al., 2010, Qasim et al., 2003, and Singh et al., 2001). We, hereby, report a case of extra-pulmonary TB with a six-month history of fever associated with dizziness, fatigability, and cough. During the hospital stay, the patient showed a spectrum of interesting hematological findings, including severe pancytopenia on peripheral smear, necrotizing caseating granulomas consistent with TB on bone marrow examination. The patient showed a good clinical as well as hematological response to antituberculosis treatment. This paper highlights the significance of a hematological picture in the final confirmation of TB, which may otherwise be passed off as nutritional or other unrelated causes.
An Unusual Case of Recurrent Guillain-Barre Syndrome of a Different Subtype Five Years after Initial Diagnosis
Authors: Dy M. , Leshner R. L. , Crawford J. R.
Published: April 2013

We present a case of a previously healthy 17-year-old girl with history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome 5 years after initial presentation who presented with bilateral lower extremity pain, worsening dysphagia, subsequent weakness, and decreased reflexes. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis had a prominent lymphocytic pleocytosis. MRI of spine showed significant anterior nerve root enhancement. Electromyogram demonstrated a mild axonal greater than demyelinating motor polyneuropathy and intact sensory responses, with no evidence of conduction block or temporal dispersion, unlike her first presentation that revealed a demyelinating polyneuropathy. The patient recovered with mild subjective weakness following 5 days of intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. This case represents a recurrence of a predominantly motor variant polyradiculoneuropathy distinct from the initial presentation with a lymphocytic predominant CSF pleocytosis, nerve root enhancement on MRI spine, and rapid recovery following treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin.
A Dynamic Intelligent Decision Approach to Dependency Modeling of Project Tasks in Complex Engineering System Optimization
Authors: Chen Tinggui , Xiao Renbin
Published: April 2013

Complex engineering system optimization usually involves multiple projects or tasks. On the one hand, dependency modeling among projects or tasks highlights structures in systems and their environments which can help to understand the implications of connectivity on different aspects of system performance and also assist in designing, optimizing, and maintaining complex systems. On the other hand, multiple projects or tasks are either happening at the same time or scheduled into a sequence in order to use common resources. In this paper, we propose a dynamic intelligent decision approach to dependency modeling of project tasks in complex engineering system optimization. The approach takes this decision process as a two-stage decision-making problem. In the first stage, a task clustering approach based on modularization is proposed so as to find out a suitable decomposition scheme for a large-scale project. In the second stage, according to the decomposition result, a discrete artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm inspired by the intelligent foraging behavior of honeybees is developed for the resource constrained multiproject scheduling problem. Finally, a certain case from an engineering design of a chemical processing system is utilized to help to understand the proposed approach.
Self‐Directedness and Cooperativeness, Psychosocial Dysfunction and Suffering in ESSENCE
Authors: Garcia Danilo , Anckarsäter Henrik , Lundström Sebastian
Published: April 2013

Background. The acronym ESSENCE (Early Symptomatic Syndromes Eliciting Neurodevelopmental Clinical Examinations) highlights that children seeking clinical treatment are often multiply impaired, thus requiring treatment from several specialties. The aim was to map and relate, on a population level, ESSENCE to two salient predictors of health and adaptation to adversities, namely, Self‐Directedness and Cooperativeness and also to dysfunction and suffering. Methods. Participants were twins (N = 1892) aged 9 or 12 whose parents were interviewed with the Autism‐Tics, ADHD and other Comorbidities inventory (A‐TAC), and the Junior Temperament and Character Inventory (J‐TCI). The A‐TAC was first used to discern four ESSENCE‐related screening diagnoses: autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, and developmental coordination disorder; second, to quantify dysfunction and suffering in important social areas. Results. ESSENCE symptoms were continuously and categorically associated with deficiency in Self‐Directedness and Cooperativeness and higher ratings of dysfunction and suffering. The impact of ESSENCE symptoms on these measures of mental health was found in a milder form in about 16% of all children and in a severe form in about 2%. Conclusion. Therapeutic interventions focusing on Self‐Directedness and Cooperativeness might provide a novel method for child psychiatry in its approach to ESSENCE.
Detection of Bovine Leukemia Virus in Brains of Cattle with a Neurological Syndrome: Pathological and Molecular Studies
Authors: D’Angelino Rubens Henrique Ramos , Pituco Edviges Maristela , Villalobos Eliana Monteforte Cassaro , Harakava Ricardo , Gregori Fábio , Del Fava Claudia
Published: April 2013

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) was investigated in the central nervous system (CNS) of cattle with neurological syndrome. A total of 269 CNS samples were submitted to nested-PCR (BLV env gene gp51), and the viral genotypes were identified. The nested-PCR was positive in 4.8% (13/269) CNS samples, with 2.7% (2/74) presenting at histological examination lesions of nonpurulent meningoencephalitis (NPME), whereas 5.6% (11/195) not presenting NPME (P>0.05). No samples presented lymphosarcoma. The PCR products (437 bp) were sequenced and submitted to phylogenetic analysis by neighbor-joining and maximum composite likelihood methods, and genotypes 1, 5, and 6 were detected, corroborating other South American studies. The genotype 6 barely described in Brazil and Argentina was more frequently detected in this study. The identity matrices showed maximum similarity (100%) among some samples of this study and one from Argentina (FJ808582), recovered from GenBank. There was no association among the genotypes and NPME lesions.
Numerical Solution of Higher Order Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Siddiqi Shahid S. , Iftikhar Muzammal
Published: April 2013

The aim of this paper is to use the homotopy analysis method (HAM), an approximating technique for solving linear and nonlinear higher order boundary value problems. Using HAM, approximate solutions of seventh-, eighth-, and tenth-order boundary value problems are developed. This approach provides the solution in terms of a convergent series. Approximate results are given for several examples to illustrate the implementation and accuracy of the method. The results obtained from this method are compared with the exact solutions and other methods (Akram and Rehman (2013), Farajeyan and Maleki (2012), Geng and Li (2009), Golbabai and Javidi (2007), He (2007), Inc and Evans (2004), Lamnii et al. (2008), Siddiqi and Akram (2007), Siddiqi et al. (2012), Siddiqi et al. (2009), Siddiqi and Iftikhar (2013), Siddiqi and Twizell (1996), Siddiqi and Twizell (1998), Torvattanabun and Koonprasert (2010), and Kasi Viswanadham and Raju (2012)) revealing that the present method is more accurate.
Horseshoe Chaos in a 3D Neural Network with Different Activation Functions
Authors: Yang Fangyan , Tang Song , Xu Guilan
Published: April 2013

This paper studies a small neural network with three neurons. First, the activation function takes the sign function. Although the network is a simple hybrid system with all subsystems being exponentially stable, we find that it can exhibit very complex dynamics such as limit cycles and chaos. Since the sign function is a limit case of sigmoidal functions, we find that chaos robustly exists with some different activation functions, which implies that such chaos in this network is more related to its weight matrix than the type of activation functions. For chaos, we present a rigorous computer-assisted study by virtue of topological horseshoe theory.
Trafficked Proteins—Druggable inPlasmodium falciparum?
Authors: Lindner Jasmin , Meissner Kamila Anna , Schettert Isolmar , Wrenger Carsten
Published: April 2013

Malaria is an infectious disease that results in serious health problems in the countries in which it is endemic. Annually this parasitic disease leads to more than half a million deaths; most of these are children in Africa. An effective vaccine is not available, and the treatment of the disease is solely dependent on chemotherapy. However, drug resistance is spreading, and the identification of new drug targets as well as the development of new antimalarials is urgently required. Attention has been drawn to a variety of essential plasmodial proteins, which are targeted to intra- or extracellular destinations, such as the digestive vacuole, the apicoplast, or into the host cell. Interfering with the action or the transport of these proteins will impede proliferation of the parasite. In this mini review, we will shed light on the present discovery of chemotherapeutics and potential drug targets involved in protein trafficking processes in the malaria parasite.
Some Identities on the High-Order -Euler Numbers and Polynomials with Weight 0
Authors: Choi Jongsung , Kim Hyun-Mee , Kim Young-Hee
Published: April 2013

We construct the th order nonlinear ordinary differential equation related to the generating function of -Euler numbers with weight 0. From this, we derive some identities on -Euler numbers and polynomials of higher order with weight 0.
Thermophysical, Volumetric, and Excess Properties of Aqueous Solutions of 1-Hexyl-3-methyl Imidazolium Bromide at 298.15 K and 0.1 MPa
Authors: Dash Debasmita , Kumar Shekhar , Mallika C. , Mudali U. Kamachi
Published: April 2013

Room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) are the environment-friendly alternatives for organic volatile solvents in a host of synthetic, catalytic, and electrochemical applications. These are also being used for various R&D works in nuclear fuel cycle research such as the recovery and purification of nuclides of interest from spent nuclear fuel matrices. In this work, density, refractive index (nD25) at sodium D line, and thermodynamic water activity of the aqueous solution of 1-hexyl-3-methyl imidazolium bromide were determined in dilute aqueous solutions at 298.15 K. These results were used to calculate the apparent molal volumes of each solute over various concentration ranges. The measurements were performed as per ASTM procedures. Vapour pressure was derived using water activity values. Information on excess properties and structural interaction was also reported.
Phytotoxicity Evolution of Biowastes Undergoing Aerobic Decomposition
Authors: Soares M. R. , Matsinhe C. , Belo S. , Quina M. J. , Quinta-Ferreira R.
Published: April 2013

This study is mainly focused on the phytotoxicity improvement within five to six weeks of thermophilic composting of biowastes. Two sets of experiments were conducted involving both sawdust and rice husk as bulking agents, which were composted in self-heating reactors with potato-peel industrial waste and grass clippings as organic materials. The main variables observed over time were temperature, oxygen uptake rate (OUR), biodegradability, and germination index (GI). The effects of compost water extracts on seed germination and primary root growth of garden cress (Lepidium sativum) were measured to calculate the germination index (GI). The biodegradability was well assessed by measuring lignin content, using the Klason method. The experimental results showed that initial compositions strongly determined the profiles of phytotoxicity and the period of maturation. The phytotoxicity assessment in the experiments with sawdust revealed that after 39 days of composting, the GI attained the maximum value of 30%, but using rice husk, it was possible to reach 70% in the same period of time. Our findings showed that, at a certain point, higher cumulative OUR led to lower germination index, and proportional relationship between the cumulative OUR and GI was observed, after thermophilic phase.
Klebsiella ozaenaeBacteremia in a Kidney Transplant Recipient
Authors: Kumar Shree , Alfaadhel Talal , AlBugami Meteb M.
Published: April 2013

Infections remain a dreadful complication after solid organ transplantation. Almost all microorganisms could cause this complication, including unusual ones. We report a 73-year-old patient, with a history of kidney transplant for 38 years on minimum immunosuppression, who presented with high-grade fever and gastrointestinal symptoms.Klebsiella ozaenaewas isolated from blood cultures. She had a prompt response to antibiotics and recovered completely in a short period. Subsequent evaluation of her nasal cavity and sinuses did not show any abnormalities.Klebsiella ozaenaeis primarily a colonizer of the oral and nasopharyngeal mucosa, which does not usually cause severe infections. Only 12 cases ofKlebsiella ozaenaebacteremia have been reported, none of them in the context of solid organ transplant recipient.
Effects of “Bu Shen Huo Xue Decoction” on the Endometrial Morphology and Expression of Leukaemia Inhibitory Factor in the Rat Uterus during the Oestrous Cycle
Authors: Gong Xin , Yu Yanyan , Tong Qing , Ren Ying , Jin Zhe
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this study was to explore the positive effects of Bu Shen Huo Xue Decoction (BSHXF) on assisted reproduction. The study aimed to evaluate whether BSHXD could improve endometrial morphology and increase the expression of LIF in a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) long protocol-induced rat model during metestrus, diestrus, proestrus, and oestrus. The BSHXD group presented significantly increased endometrium thickness and decreased MVD compared with the GnRHa long protocol group. In addition, the expression of LIF was significantly higher in the BSHXD group. There were no significant differences between the control group and the BSHXD group in terms of MVD and LIF expression. These results suggested that BSHXD can improve the endometrium development, reduce the abnormal angiogenesis, and increase the expression of receptivity markers in a GnRHa long protocol-induced rat model during the oestrous cycle, which might result in an endometrial environment better suited for female reproduction.
Nitrogen Removal in a Full-Scale Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plant with Activated Sludge and Trickling Filter
Authors: Nourmohammadi Davood , Esmaeeli Mir-Bager , Akbarian Hossein , Ghasemian Mohammad
Published: April 2013

During the last decade, more stringent effluent requirements concerning the nutrients effluent values have been imposed by legislation and social concern. In this study, efficiency of total nitrogen removal in activated sludge and trickling filter processes (AS/TF) was investigated in Tehran North wastewater treatment plant. Biological system in this site was included, anoxic selector tank, aeration tank, final sedimentation, and trickling filter. A part of treated wastewater before chlorination was mixed with supernatant of dewatered sludge and fed to the trickling filter. Supernatant of dewatered sludge with high concentration of NH4-N was diluted by treated wastewater to provide complete nitrification in trickling filter Produced nitrate in trickling filter was arrived to the anoxic tank and converted to nitrogen gas by denitrification. According to the study result, low concentration of organic carbone and high concentration of NH4-N led to nitrification in TF, then nitrate denitrification to nitrogen gas occurred in selector area. NH4-N concentration decreased from 26.8 mg/L to 0.29 mg/L in TF, and NO3-N concentration increased from 8.8 mg/L to 27 mg/L in TF. Consequently, the total nitrogen decreased approximately to 50% in biological process. This efficiency has been observed in returned flow around 24% from final sedimentation into TF. It was concluded that, in comparison with biological nutrient removal processes, this process is very efficient and simple.
Sol-Gel Synthesis of TiO2/SiO2 and ZnO/SiO2 Composite Films and Evaluation of Their Photocatalytic Activity towards Methyl Green
Authors: Chandraboss V. L. , Karthikeyan B. , Kamalakkannan J. , Prabha S. , Senthilvelan S.
Published: April 2013

The TiO2/SiO2 and ZnO/SiO2 composite films were prepared by sol-gel dip coating method. The surface morphology and crystal structure of thin films were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with elementary dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). Optical properties of films have been investigated using ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy (UV-visible spectroscopy). The photocatalytic activity was established by testing the degradation and decolorization of methyl green (MG) from aqueous solution with artificial UV-light.
TRAF1-C5Affects Quality of Life in Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Authors: Raszeja-Wyszomirska Joanna , Wunsch Ewa , Kempinska-Podhorodecka Agnieszka , Smyk Daniel S. , Bogdanos Dimitrios P. , Milkiewicz Malgorzata , Milkiewicz Piotr
Published: April 2013

Background. Previous studies reported associations between specific alleles of non-HLA immunoregulatory genes and higher fatigue scores in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC).Aim. To study the relationship between variables of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and single nucleotide polymorphisms ofTRAF1-C5, a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor family.Patients and Methods.TRAF1-C5gene polymorphisms, rs2900180 and rs3761847, were analysed in 120 Caucasian PBCs. The HRQoL was assessed with SF-36, PBC-40, and PBC-27 questionnaires.Results. We found a negative association between TT genotype of rs2900180 and SF-36’s domains vitality (P<0.05), mental health (P<0.05), and mental component summary score (P<0.05). GG homozygotes of rs3761847 had lower vitality (P<0.05), mental health (P<0.05), mental component summary score (P<0.05) and impairment of social functioning (P<0.01). Allelic analysis has shown that T allele of rs2900180 and G allele of rs3761847 related to SF-36’s vitality (P<0.05andP<0.01), social functioning (P<0.05andP<0.05), mental health (P<0.01andP<0.05), and mental component summary score (P<0.01andP<0.05), respectively. Genotyping and allelic analysis did not reveal correlation with PBC-40 and PBC-27 domains.Conclusion. The association between rs2900180 and rs3761847 polymorphisms and HRQoL variables indicates that TRAF1 is involved in the induction of impaired QoL in PBC.
Variations to the Nanotube Surface for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Frandsen Christine J. , Brammer Karla S. , Jin Sungho
Published: April 2013

The complex mechanisms of the bone cell-surface interactions are yet to be completely understood, and researchers continue to strive to uncover the fully optimized implant material for perfect osseointegration. A particularly fascinating area of research involves the study of nanostructured surfaces, which are believed to enhance osteogenic behavior, possibly due to the mimicry of components of the extracellular matrix of bone. There is a growing body of data that emphasizes the promise of the titanium oxide (TiO2) nanotube architecture as an advanced orthopedic implant material. The review herein highlights findings regarding TiO2nanotube surfaces for bone regeneration and the osteogenic effects of minute changes to the surface such as tube size and surface chemistry.