bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modules Identification in Gene Positive Networks of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Pearson Agglomerative Method and Pearson Cohesion Coupling Modularity
Authors: Hu Jinyu , Gao Zhiwei
Published: September 2012

In this study, a gene positive network is proposed based on a weighted undirected graph, where the weight represents the positive correlation of the genes. A Pearson agglomerative clustering algorithm is employed to build a clustering tree, where dotted lines cut the tree from bottom to top leading to a number of subsets of the modules. In order to achieve better module partitions, the Pearson correlation coefficient modularity is addressed to seek optimal module decomposition by selecting an optimal threshold value. For the liver cancer gene network under study, we obtain a strong threshold value at 0.67302, and a very strong correlation threshold at 0.80086. On the basis of these threshold values, fourteen strong modules and thirteen very strong modules are obtained respectively. A certain degree of correspondence between the two types of modules is addressed as well. Finally, the biological significance of the two types of modules is analyzed and explained, which shows that these modules are closely related to the proliferation and metastasis of liver cancer. This discovery of the new modules may provide new clues and ideas for liver cancer treatment.
Neurogenetic Algorithm for Solving Combinatorial Engineering Problems
Authors: Jalali Varnamkhasti M. , Hassan Nasruddin
Published: September 2012

Diversity of the population in a genetic algorithm plays an important role in impeding premature convergence. This paper proposes an adaptive neurofuzzy inference system genetic algorithm based on sexual selection. In this technique, for choosing the female chromosome during sexual selection, a bilinear allocation lifetime approach is used to label the chromosomes based on their fitness value which will then be used to characterize the diversity of the population. The motivation of this algorithm is to maintain the population diversity throughout the search procedure. To promote diversity, the proposed algorithm combines the concept of gender and age of individuals and the fuzzy logic during the selection of parents. In order to appraise the performance of the techniques used in this study, one of the chemistry problems and some nonlinear functions available in literature is used.
Fuzzy Parameterized Soft Expert Set
Authors: Bashir Maruah , Salleh Abdul Razak
Published: September 2012

In 2011 Alkhazaleh and Salleh introduced the concept of soft expert set and gave an application in a decision‐making problem. In this paper we introduce the concept of fuzzy parameterized soft expert set by giving an important degree for each element in the set of parameters. We also study its properties and define its basic operations, namely, complement, union, intersection, AND, and OR. Finally, we give an application in decision making.
Vitamin E, Vitamin C, or Losartan Is Not Nephroprotectant against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Presence of Estrogen in Ovariectomized Rat Model
Authors: Nematbakhsh Mehdi , Pezeshki Zahra , Eshraghi-Jazi Fatemeh , Ashrafi Farzaneh , Nasri Hamid , Talebi Ardeshir , Safari Tahereh , Haghighi Maryam , Mansouri Azam
Published: September 2012

Background. The nephroprotective effect of vitamins E and C or losartan against cisplatin (CP)- induced nephrotoxicity when they are accompanied by estrogen was investigated.Methods. The ovariectomized rats received estradiol valerate for two weeks. At the end of the first week, a single dose of CP (7 mg/kg, IP) was also administered, and they received placebo (group 1), vitamin E (group 2), vitamin C (group 3), or losartan (group 4) every day during the second week, and they were compared with another three control groups.Results. CP alone increased the serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), and kidney tissue damage score (KTDS), significantly (P<0.05), however at the presence of estradiol and CP, vitamin C, vitamin E, or losartan not only did not decrease these parameters, but also increased them significantly (P<0.05). The serum level of superoxidase dismutase (SOD) was reduced by CP (P<0.05), but it was increased when estradiol or estradiol plus vitamin C or losartan were added (P<0.05).Conclusion. The particular pharmacological dose of estrogen used in this study abolish the nephroprotective effects vitamins C and E or losartan against CP-induced nephrotoxicity.
Beat Phenomenon Analysis of Concrete Beam with Piezoelectric Sensors
Authors: Li Xu , Huo Linsheng , Li Hongnan
Published: September 2012

The focus of this paper is to give a better understanding of beat phenomenon in the free vibration test of a concrete beam with piezoelectric ceramic sensors from the view of mathematics. The cause of beat phenomenon from piezoelectric ceramic sensors embedded in the concrete beam is illustrated and the influence factors of beat phenomenon are discussed. The results show that the beat phenomenon from piezoelectric ceramic sensors in the concrete beam is caused by the coupled responses with similar model frequencies in different directions. The influence factors of beat phenomenon due to damping effect, impact direction, sensor position and sectional dimension are discussed. As the damping ratios increased, the amplitude of beat signal will die out in an exponential decay. Meanwhile, the damping has a tiny influence on the beat frequency of system response, the amplitudes of beat signal both in the time and frequency domain are changed with the variation of impact direction. In addition, the amplitude of beat signal will be also changed with the position of sensors altered. The beat frequency will get more with the greater difference of sectional dimension.
Robust Adaptive Neurocontrol of SISO Nonlinear Systems Preceded by Unknown Deadzone
Authors: Pérez-Cruz J. Humberto , Ruiz-Velázquez E. , Rubio José de Jesús , de Alba-Padilla Carlos A.
Published: September 2012

In this study, the problem of controlling an unknown SISO nonlinear system in Brunovsky canonical form with unknown deadzone input in such a way that the system output follows a specified bounded reference trajectory is considered. Based on universal approximation property of the neural networks, two schemes are proposed to handle this problem. The first scheme utilizes a smooth adaptive inverse of the deadzone. By means of Lyapunov analyses, the exponential convergence of the tracking error to a bounded zone is proven. The second scheme considers the deadzone as a combination of a linear term and a disturbance‐like term. Thus, the estimation of the deadzone inverse is not required. By using a Lyapunov‐like analyses, the asymptotic converge of the tracking error to a bounded zone is demonstrated. Since this control strategy requires the knowledge of a bound for an uncertainty/disturbance term, a procedure to find such bound is provided. In both schemes, the boundedness of all closed‐loop signals is guaranteed. A numerical experiment shows that a satisfactory performance can be obtained by using any of the two proposed controllers.
Association of Hepatitis C Virus Infection with Type II Diabetes in Ethiopia: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Ali Solomon , Abera Solomon , Mihret Adane , Abebe Tamrat
Published: September 2012

Background.Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) has become the global “epidemic” with an estimated 123 million people currently infected worldwide. As the same time diabetes is also rapidly emerging as a global health care problem that threatens to reach pandemic levels by 2030.Objective.To investigate the magnitude of HCV infection in type II diabetes as compared to controls.Methodology.A case control study design was conducted at Jimma University Specialized Hospital from May to June 2010. A total of 604 study subjects were included in this study. Sociodemographic and risk factor data were collected by questionnaire. From serum sample, HCVAb screening was done by rapid antibody screening test. Liver functioning tests and total cholesterol tests were done by Dr. Lange LP 800 spectrophotometer.Results.The prevalence of HCV in type II diabetes and nondiabetic controls was 9.9% and 3.3%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, HCV seropositives have high risk of developing diabetes as compared with seronegatives (AOR = 2.997, 95% CI: (1.08, 8.315)).Conclusion.In this study, we found a positive association between past HCV infection and type II diabetes. As we did not perform HCV RNA test, we could not assess the association with HCV viremia.
Angora Wool Asthma in Textile Industry
Authors: Sartorelli Pietro , Romeo Riccardo , Coppola Giuseppina , Nuti Roberta , Paolucci Valentina
Published: September 2012

Up to now the exposures to hair and skin derivatives of animals have not yet been the subject of systematic studies. The observation of a clinical case has provided the opportunity for a review of the literature. The inpatient was a 49-year-old man, a carder in a textile factory, exposed to angora wool. He noticed the appearance of dyspnea during working hours. There was no eosinophilia in blood, and the results of pulmonary function tests were normal. The nonspecific bronchial provocation test with methacholine demonstrated an abnormal bronchial reactivity. The challenge test with angora wool was positive (decrease in FEV1 of more than 40%) as well as total IGE and specific IgE to rabbit epithelium (433 KU/l and 12.1 KUA/l, resp.). Several sources of allergens were found in the rabbit, and the main allergen was represented by proteins from epithelia, urine, and saliva. Most of these proteins belong to the family of lipocalin, they function as carriers for small hydrophobic molecules (vitamins and pheromones). If the diagnosis of occupational asthma caused by animal hair and skin derivatives may be relatively easy by means of the challenge test, defining etiology is complicated because of the lack of in vitro tests.
In VitroSelection of Fab Fragments by mRNA Display and Gene-Linking Emulsion PCR
Authors: Sumida Takeshi , Yanagawa Hiroshi , Doi Nobuhide
Published: September 2012

In vitroselection by display methods has been an effective tool for engineering recombinant antibodies. mRNA display based on a cell-free translation system has the advantages of larger library sizes and quicker selection procedures compared with cell-based display methods such as phage display. However, mRNA display has been limited to select single-chain polypeptides such as scFvs due to its characteristic of linking a nascent polypeptide with its encoding mRNA on the ribosome. Here we demonstrated a new way of selecting heterodimeric Fab fragments by using mRNA display combined with emulsion PCR. We designed a pair of complementary 5′ UTR sequences that can link the Fab heavy and light chain genes together by overlap-extension PCR in water-in-oil emulsions. We confirmed that two mRNA-displayed polypeptides for heavy and light chain of a model Fab fragment were associated into the active form and that a specific Fab fragment gene was enriched over 100-fold per round of a model affinity selection followed by the gene-linking emulsion PCR. We further performed directed evolution of Fab fragments with higher binding activity from a randomized Fab fragment library.
Modified Grid-Connected CSI for Hybrid PV/Wind Power Generation System
Authors: Amorndechaphon D. , Premrudeepreechacharn S. , Higuchi K. , Roboam X.
Published: September 2012

The principle of a power conditioning unit for hybrid PV/wind power generation system is proposed. The proposed power conditioner is based on the current source inverter (CSI) topology. All energy sources are connected in parallel with a DC-bus through the modified wave-shaping circuits. To achieve the unity power factor at the utility grid, the DC-link current can be controlled via the wave-shaping circuits with the sinusoidal PWM scheme. In this work, the carrier-based PWM scheme is also proposed to minimize the utility current THD. The power rating of the proposed system can be increased by connecting more PV/wind modules through their wave-shaping circuits in parallel with the other modules. The details of the operating principles, the system configurations, and the design considerations are described. The effectiveness of the proposed CSI is demonstrated by simulation results.
Fine Spectra of Upper Triangular Double‐Band Matrices over the Sequence Space ℓp, (1 < p < ∞)
Authors: Karaisa Ali
Published: September 2012

The operator on sequence space on ℓp is defined , where x = (xk) ∈ ℓp, and and are two convergent sequences of nonzero real numbers satisfying certain conditions, where (1 < p < ∞). The main purpose of this paper is to determine the fine spectrum with respect to the Goldberg′s classification of the operator defined by a double sequential band matrix over the sequence space ℓp. Additionally, we give the approximate point spectrum, defect spectrum, and compression spectrum of the matrix operator over the space ℓp.
Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm Rupture: An Unusual Presentation of Chromosome 22q11.2 Deletion: A Case Report
Authors: Abuchaibe Eda-Cristina , Dobrolet Nancy , Peicher Katherine , Ventura Roque , Welch Elizabeth
Published: September 2012

Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) is defined as a weakness in the aortic valve wall, immediately above the attachments of each of the aortic cusps. This weakness can rupture and create an aortocardiac fistula. There are many congenital heart defects associated with chromosome 22q11 deletion, especially involving the aortic arch and its branches. SVA is not an anomaly usually associated with chromosome 22 deletion. We report the case of a 19-year-old female who presented to our institution with SVA rupture. She was subsequently diagnosed with chromosome 22q11 deletion syndrome. Despite dysmorphic facial features and a learning disability, our patient had not been diagnosed with the chromosome abnormality. SVA is a rare congenital heart defect and has only once previously been reported in a child with a chromosome 22q11 deletion. We report the first case where aneurysm rupture preceded the chromosomal findings. Chromosome 22q11 deletion could be missed due to either the unfamiliarity of physicians with the syndrome or the variability and subtlety of the phenotype. This was demonstrated by our patient who, at age 19 after presenting with an SVA rupture, prompted physicians to find an explanation for her coexisting dysmorphic features and her learning disability.
Colonic EBV-Associated Lymphoproliferative Disorder in a Patient Treated with Rabbit Antithymocyte Globulin for Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Sugimoto-Sekiguchi Hiroko , Tashiro Haruko , Shirasaki Ryosuke , Arai Tomio , Yamamoto Tadashi , Oka Yoko , Akiyama Nobu , Kawasugi Kazuo , Shirafuji Naoki
Published: September 2012

Epstein-Barr-virus- (EBV-) associated lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD) after immunosuppressive therapy for aplastic anemia (AA), in a nontransplant setting, has not been well described. We report one case of colonic EBV-LPD after a single course of immunosuppressive therapy for AA. The patient developed multiple colonic tumors 3 months after receiving immunosuppressive therapy, which consisted of rabbit antithymocyte globulin (ATG), cyclosporine, and methyl-predonisolone. The histological findings of biopsy specimens revealed that atypical lymphocytes had infiltrated colonic glands. Immunohistochemical staining for CD20 was positive, andin situhybridization for EBV-encoded small RNAs was also positive. The EBV viral load in peripheral blood was slightly increased to 140/106white blood cells. After the cessation of immunosuppressant, the colonic tumors spontaneously regressed, and the EBV viral load decreased to undetectable levels. This is the first report of the single use of rabbit ATG inducing colonic EBV-LPD. Because a single use of immunosuppressive therapy containing rabbit ATG can cause EBV-LPD, we should carefully observe patients receiving rabbit ATG for AA.
One-Stage Hybrid Repair of Multiple Degenerative Aneurysms
Authors: Kouvelos George N. , Papa Nektario K. , Arnaoutoglou Eleni M. , Bali Christina , Matsagkas Miltiadis I.
Published: September 2012

The development of multiple aneurysms in different segments of the arterial tree requiring treatment is a challenge for the vascular surgeon as their management often demands more than one surgical procedure. We report a case of a 71-year-old male suffering from multiple aneurysms in four different segments of the arterial tree in combination with disabling claudication of his left leg. The patient was managed in a single session with a combination of classic open surgical and endovascular techniques in order to treat his aneurysms and revascularize his leg. This case illustrates the prospect to combine classic open surgical and endovascular techniques for the optimal management of multileveled arterial pathology. Combined therapy simplifies management and allows the one-stage treatment of these patients, while minimizing the overall operative risk.
-Synuclein as CSF and Blood Biomarker of Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Authors: Kasuga Kensaku , Nishizawa Masatoyo , Ikeuchi Takeshi
Published: September 2012

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a common subtype of dementia in the elderly. DLB is neuropathologically characterized by the presence of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites, both of which are composed ofα-synuclein. Althoughα-synuclein was initially considered to be an exclusively intracellular protein, it has been found to be secreted into biological fluids.α-Synuclein in biological fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood has been discussed as a potential biomarker of DLB andα-synuclein-related disorders, becauseα-synuclein is characteristically accumulated in the brain of patients with these disorders. Theα-synuclein level in CSF has been examined by several investigators, and the majority of studies have shown a reduction in CSFα-synuclein level in DLB andα-synuclein-related disorders. Discrepant findings of studies of plasmaα-synuclein level in patients with DLB have been reported. Because the level ofα-synuclein stored in red blood cells is considerably high, blood contamination and haemolysis during sample collection and processing should be considered as a confounding factor for quantification ofα-synuclein. Here, the recent progress in the studies ofα-synuclein as a biomarker of DLB and their potential clinical applications are reviewed.
Applying Semigroup Property of Enhanced Chebyshev Polynomials to Anonymous Authentication Protocol
Authors: Lai Hong , Xiao Jinghua , Li Lixiang , Yang Yixian
Published: September 2012

We apply semigroup property of enhanced Chebyshev polynomials to present an anonymous authentication protocol. This paper aims at improving security and reducing computational and storage overhead. The proposed scheme not only has much lower computational complexity and cost in the initialization phase but also allows the users to choose their passwords freely. Moreover, it can provide revocation of lost or stolen smart card, which can resist man‐in‐the‐middle attack and off‐line dictionary attack together with various known attacks.
Effect of AZO Substrates on Self‐Seeded Electrochemical Growth of Vertically Aligned ZnO Nanorod Arrays and Their Optical Properties
Authors: Peić A. , Dimopoulos T. , Resel R. , Abermann S. , Postl M. , List E. J. W. , Brückl H.
Published: September 2012

We present a single step and an electrochemical synthesis of vertically aligned ZnO nanorod (NR) arrays, directly on transparent aluminium‐doped zinc oxide (AZO) electrodes. The NRs grow from mild, aqueous‐based solution at low temperature, with no need for catalysts or additional seed layer. The use of textured AZO as substrate allows for highly effective growth of hexagonally faceted, single‐crystalline ZnO NRs along the wurtzite c-axis. The matching of the crystal lattices initiates a self‐seeding route, thus the inherent growth habit of the AZO crystallites advances the vertical growth and alignment of NRs. Moreover, the thickness‐dependant grain size of the AZO layer provides a valuable feature for tuning the diameter of ZnO NRs grown atop. In the absence of any seed mediator, the interfacial quality is expected to improve significantly. This should enhance the thermal and electrical transport throughout the whole nanostructured transparent electrode. The NR growth was investigated under systematic manipulation of the synthesis variables in order to optimize growth conditions for highly aligned, single‐crystalline NRs with a large aspect ratio and a good optical quality. The structure and optical property of the AZO/ZnO NR ensembles were characterized by atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, photoluminescence, and ultraviolet‐visible transmission spectroscopy.
Gorlin-Goltz Syndrome: Case Report of a Rare Hereditary Disorder
Authors: Agrawal Ashutosh , Murari Aditi , Vutukuri Sunil , Singh Arun
Published: September 2012

Introduction. Gorlin-Goltz syndrome is an inherited autosomal dominant disorder with complete penetrance and extreme variable expressivity.Case Report. The present paper highlights the importance of diagnostic criteria and histopathology in early and prompt diagnosis which will lead to proper treatment and genetic counseling of the patient.Discussion. Gorlin-Goltz syndrome is about multisystem process comprising the triad of basal cell nevi, jaw keratocysts, and skeletal anomalies. A spectrum of other neurological, ophthalmic, endocrine and genital manifestations is known to be variably associated with this triad. Diagnosis of the syndrome is based on major and minor criteria.Conclusion. This paper emphasizes the importance of oral and maxillofacial health professionals in the early diagnosis of nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome and in a preventive multidisciplinary approach to provide a better prognosis to the patient.
Multiscale Discretization Scheme Based on the Rayleigh Quotient Iterative Method for the Steklov Eigenvalue Problem
Authors: Bi Hai , Yang Yidu
Published: September 2012

This paper discusses efficient numerical methods for the Steklov eigenvalue problem and establishes a new multiscale discretization scheme and an adaptive algorithm based on the Rayleigh quotient iterative method. The efficiency of these schemes is analyzed theoretically, and the constants appeared in the error estimates are also analyzed elaborately. Finally, numerical experiments are provided to support the theory.
Management of Severe Pediatric Tourette Syndrome Resistant to Drug Treatment
Authors: Perera Hemamali , Abayanayaka Chittahari
Published: September 2012

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with chronic and disabling impacts on multiple domains of functioning in children. Treatment of TS is often complicated by comorbid conditions. We present a 12-year-old boy with severe symptoms of Tourette syndrome (TS), with prominent and markedly disabling vocal tics, who failed to respond to substantial doses of risperidone and haloperidol, given for a prolonged period. Satisfactory outcome was achieved with exposure and response prevention, adjunct to medication. Comorbid ADHD was treated with stimulants with no exacerbation of tics.
Radiological Followup of the Evolution of Inflammatory Process in Sacroiliac Joint with Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Case with Pyogenic Sacroiliitis
Authors: Cinar Muhammet , Sanal Hatice Tugba , Yilmaz Sedat , Simsek Ismail , Erdem Hakan , Pay Salih , Dinc Ayhan
Published: September 2012

Pyogenic sacroiliitis (PS) is an acute form of sacroiliitis that mostly starts with very painful buttock pain. Here in this case, the followup magnetic resonance (MR) images of a 49-year-old male patient with PS is displayed. After his sacroiliitis was documented by MR images, he was treated with the combination of rifampicin plus streptomycin and moxifloxacin. Serial MR investigations were done to disclose acute and subsequent imaging changes concerning sacroiliac joint and surrounding bone structures. Although after treatment all the symptoms were completely resolved, 20 months later changes suggesting active sacroiliitis on MR images were continuing.
Correlation of Aquaporins and Transmembrane Solute Transporters Revealed by Genome-Wide Analysis in Developing Maize Leaf
Authors: Yue Xun , Zhao XiangYu , Fei YuKui , Zhang Xiansheng
Published: September 2012

Aquaporins are multifunctional membrane channels that facilitate the transmembrane transport of water and solutes. When transmembrane mineral nutrient transporters exhibit the same expression patterns as aquaporins under diverse temporal and physiological conditions, there is a greater probability that they interact. In this study, genome-wide temporal profiling of transcripts analysis and coexpression network-based approaches are used to examine the significant specificity correlation of aquaporins and transmembrane solute transporters in developing maize leaf. The results indicate that specific maize aquaporins are related to specific transmembrane solute transporters. The analysis demonstrates a systems-level correlation between aquaporins, nutrient transporters, and the homeostasis of mineral nutrients in developing maize leaf. Our results provide a resource for further studies into the physiological function of these aquaporins.
A Secure Hierarchical Key Management Scheme in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Zhang Yiying , Li Xiangzhen , Liu Jianming , Yang Jucheng , Cui Baojiang
Published: September 2012

Due to the vulnerable environment, limited recourse and open communication channel, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are necessary to be protected from various attacks. The key management is an important way to protect the communication in WSNs. In this paper, we present a hierarchical key management scheme (HKMS) which can efficiently enhance the security and survivability for the clustered WSNs. Different from previous works, the HKMS distributes keys based on hop counts and one-way function by the clustered architecture, which not only localizes the key things but also has no overhead. The HKMS provides the session keys among sensors and the cluster key between the cluster head and member nodes. The HKMS dynamically generates different keys based on different hops in different periods which can protect the network from the compromised nodes and reduce the high probability of the common keys without any special sensors (such as the anchor nodes). The security analysis and simulation show the HKMS can prevent several attacks effectively and reduce the energy consumption.
On Integral Inequalities of Hermite‐Hadamard Type for s‐Geometrically Convex Functions
Authors: Zhang Tian-Yu , Ji Ai-Ping , Qi Feng
Published: September 2012

The authors introduce the concept of the s‐geometrically convex functions. By the well‐known Hölder inequality, they establish some integral inequalities of Hermite‐Hadamard type related to the s‐geometrically convex functions and apply these inequalities to special means.
Reproducible Analysis of Rat Brain PET Studies Using an Additional [18F]NaF Scan and an MR-Based ROI Template
Authors: Buiter Hans J. C. , van Velden Floris H. P. , Leysen Josée E. , Fisher Abraham , Windhorst Albert D. , Lammertsma Adriaan A. , Huisman Marc C.
Published: September 2012

Background. An important step in the analysis of positron emission tomography (PET) studies of the brain is the definition of regions of interest (ROI). Image coregistration, ROI analysis, and quantification of brain PET data in small animals can be observer dependent. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of ROI analysis based on a standard MR template and an additional [18F]NaF scan.Methods. [18F]NaF scans of 10 Wistar rats were coregistered with a standard MR template by 3 observers and derived transformation matrices were applied to corresponding [11C]AF150(S) images. Uptake measures were derived for several brain regions delineated using the MR template. Overall agreement between the 3 observers was assessed by interclass correlation coefficients (ICC) of uptake data. In addition, [11C]AF150(S) ROI data were compared withex vivobiodistribution data.Results. For all brain regions, ICC analysis showed excellent agreement between observers. Reproducibility, estimated by calculation of standard deviation of the between-observer differences, was demonstrated by an average of 17% expressed as coefficient of variation. Uptake of [11C]AF150(S) derived from ROI analysis closely matchedex vivobiodistribution data.Conclusions. The proposed method provides a reproducible and tracer-independent method for ROI analysis of rat brain PET data.
Association of Ultrasonographic Parameters with Subclinical White-Matter Hyperintensities in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Heliopoulos Ioannis , Artemis Dimitrios , Vadikolias Konstantinos , Tripsianis Grigorios , Piperidou Charitomeni , Tsivgoulis Georgios
Published: September 2012

Background and Purpose. Cerebral white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are regarded as typical MRI expressions of small-vessel disease (SVD) and are common in hypertensive patients. Hypertension induces pathologic changes in macrocirculation and in microcirculation. Changes in microcirculation may lead to SVD of brain and consequently to hypertensive end-organ damage. This damage is regarded the result of interactions between the macrovascular and microvascular levels. We sought to investigate the association of cerebral WMHs with ultrasonographic parameters of cerebral macrocirculation evaluated by carotid duplex ultrasound (CDU) and transcranial doppler (TCD).
Subjects and Methods. The study was prospective, cross-sectional and consecutive and included hypertensive patients with brain MRI with WMHs. Patients underwent CDU and TCD. The clinical variables recorded were demographic characteristics (age, gender, race) and vascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetic mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, current smoking, and body mass index). Excluded from the study were patients with history of clinical stroke (including lacunar stroke and hemorrhagic) or transient ischemic attack (either hemispheric or ocular), hemodynamically significant (>50%) extra- or intracranial stenosis, potential sources of cardioembolism, and absent transtemporal windows. WMHs were quantified with the use of a semiquantitative visual rating method. Ultrasound parameters investigated were (1) common carotid artery (CCA) diameter and intima-media thickness, (2) blood flow velocity in the CCA and internal carotid artery (ICA), and (3) blood flow velocity and pulsatility index of middle cerebral artery (MCA).
Results. A total of 52 patients fulfilled the study inclusion criteria (mean age years, 54% men, median WMH-score: 20). The only two ultrasound parameters that were independently associated with WMH score in multivariate linear regression models adjusting for demographic characteristics and vascular risk factors were increased mean common carotid artery (CCA) diameter (, , , %) and increased middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (MCA-PI; , , , %). Among all ultrasound parameters the highest AUC (areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve) were documented for MCA-PI (, 95% CI = 0.68−0.95, ) and mean CCA diameter (, 95% CI = 0.67−0.92, ).
Conclusions. Our study showed that in hypertensive individuals with brain SVD the extent of structural changes in cerebral microcirculation as reflected by WMHs burden is associated with the following ultrasound parameters of cerebral macrocirculation: CCA diameter and MCA-PI.
“Primary Omental Hydatid Cyst”: A Rare Entity
Authors: Sable Shailesh , Mehta Jyoti , Yadav Sudeep , Jategaokar Priyadarshan , Haldar Premashish J.
Published: September 2012

Hydatid cyst is caused by the parasiteEchinococcus granulosuscommonly seen in temperate regions. Primary omental hydatid cyst is rare entity. Diagnosis can be achieved with contrast-enhanced computed tomography of abdomen and pelvis along with serology. Eosinophilia is a strong pointer to hydatid cyst as a differential diagnosis. Open or laparoscopic excision of the cyst along with medical therapy remains the treatment of choice.
Stafne Bone Defect: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Münevveroğlu A. P. , Aydın K. C.
Published: September 2012

Stafne bone defects are asymptomatic lingual bone depressions of the lower jaw. In 1942, Stafne described for the first time 35 asymptomatic, radiolucent cavities, unilaterally located in the posterior region of the mandible, between the mandibular angle and the third molar, below the inferior dental canal and slightly above the basis mandibulae. In this study, the clinical and radiological characteristics of 2 cases of Stafne bone defects were described. Orthopantomograph and CBCT were used for diagnosing the defects. The bone defects of two patients in this study were asymptomatic and any other bone lesions, such as cysts and tumors, were excluded because no signs of inflammatory or tumoral changes were evident Therefore, surgery was not considered and the patients were followed for 1 year. Stafne bone defect was an incidental finding, presenting no evolutionary changes, and as such conservatory therapy based on periodic controls was indicated. Currently, complementary techniques such as CT are sufficient to establish a certain diagnosis.
Synchronous Bilateral Breast Carcinoma and Axillary Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Miles Edward F. , Jacimore Laura L.
Published: September 2012

The use of staging imaging modalities with increased sensitivity has led to an increase in the incidence of detection of simultaneous malignancies. These cases require careful evaluation and discussion in a multidisciplinary setting to establish a treatment plan that optimizes the outcome with respect to each malignancy, particularly when treatment modalities overlap. We report a case of a patient diagnosed with axillary nodal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in a community hospital where staging workup also revealed synchronous bilateral breast carcinomas. To our knowledge, this is only the second case report of a patient with three synchronous primary malignancies: bilateral breast carcinomas and axillary DLBCL. The only other similar case report had no role for radiation or chemotherapy in the management of the indolent follicular lymphoma.
On the Achievable User Number of the Downlinks in Cellular-Based Machine-to-Machine Communications
Authors: Li Yingbo , Chen Chen , Bai Lin , Jin Ye
Published: September 2012

In cellular-based machine-to-machine (M2M) networks, supporting large number of machine-type communications (MTC) users (devices) has become a critical challenge in both the uplink and downlink channels. In this paper, we focus on the downlink beamforming using zero-forcing dirty paper coding (DPC). In order to characterize the system's ability of user admission, we consider the achievable user number, which is defined as the number of users whose signal-to-interference plus-noise ratios exceed a target threshold. Due to the complexity of the optimal scheme, we propose two algorithms with random user scheduling and greedy user scheduling in maximizing the achievable user number by dynamical power assignment. Using the joint distribution of effective channel gains, we derive the achievable user number of both the scheduling schemes. An upper bound on the achievable user number of the greedy scheme is then derived which is shown to be tight when there are a large number of users. From numerical results, we show that both of the schemes enjoy a linear increase in the achievable user number as the number of transmitter antennas increases. The performance of the greedy scheduling scheme is close to the optimal scheduling scheme.
Fuzzy Timing Petri Net for Fault Diagnosis in Power System
Authors: Ghainani Alireza Tavakholi , Mohd Zin Abdullah Asuhaimi , Ismail Nur ‘Ain Maiza
Published: September 2012

A model‐based system for fault diagnosis in power system is presented in this paper. It is based on fuzzy timing Petri net (FTPN). The ordinary Petri net (PN) tool is used to model the protective components, relays, and circuit breakers. In addition, fuzzy timing is associated with places (token)/transition to handle the uncertain information of relays and circuits breakers. The received delay time information of relays and breakers is mapped to fuzzy timestamps, π(τ), as initial marking of the backward FTPN. The diagnosis process starts by marking the backward sub‐FTPNs. The final marking is found by going through the firing sequence, σ, of each sub‐FTPN and updating fuzzy timestamp in each state of σ. The final marking indicates the estimated fault section. This information is then in turn used in forward FTPN to evaluate the fault hypothesis. The FTPN will increase the speed of the inference engine because of the ability of Petri net to describe parallel processing, and the use of time‐tag data will cause the inference procedure to be more accurate.
Harmonic Suppressed Slot Antennas Using Rectangular/Circular Defected Ground Structures
Authors: Ghaffarian Mohammad Saeid , Moradi Gholamreza , Zaker Reza
Published: September 2012

Two wide rectangle-shaped microstrip-fed 2.6-GHz slot antennas using defected ground structures (DGSs) with a low design complexity are proposed to achieve wideband harmonic suppression. To accomplish this, two rectangular DGSs (RDGSs) in the first antenna and two circular DGSs (CDGSs) in the second one with various dimensions are etched into the ground plane, which could have a wideband-stop characteristic. Simulated and measured reflection coefficients indicate that the two proposed structures effectively suppress the second and third harmonics up to 23 dB between 3.5 and 10.5 GHz with a maximum ripple of 2.4 dB. In addition, the radiation patterns and peak gains of the antennas can be suppressed at least 17 dB and 7.1 dBi, respectively, at the third harmonic frequency of 7.86 GHz.
Bone Marrow and Peripheral Blood AML Cells Are Highly Sensitive to CNDAC, the Active Form of Sapacitabine
Authors: Jagan Sucheta , Paganessi Laura A. , Frank Robin R. , Venugopal Parameswaran , Larson Melissa , Christopherson Kent W.
Published: September 2012

Achieving improvements in survival and reducing relapse remains a challenge in acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) patients. This study evaluated thein vitroefficacy of the active form of novel agent sapacitabine, CNDAC, compared to current chemotherapeutic drugs Ara-C and mitoxantrone using two AML cell lines, HL-60 (promyelocytic) and THP-1 (monocytic), as well as bone marrow (BM) and peripheral blood (PB) cells collected from AML patients. Cell lines were exposed to compound for 3–6 days and primary cells for 4 days. The viability of primary cells was additionally evaluated 3, 7, and 31 days after removal of tested compound to determine the durability of the response. Our studies indicate that CNDAC and mitoxantrone have a greater impact on viability than ara-C in primary AML cells and AML cell lines. CNDAC is more effective at reducing viability and inducing apoptosis than ara-C at equivalent concentrations in the THP-1 cell line, which is defined as displaying resistance to ara-C. As sapacitabine has shownin vivoactivity at clinically achievable doses, future studies are warranted to assess the potential for combining it with ara-C and/or mitoxantrone, with an emphasis on cells and patients insensitive to ara-C treatment.
Response to 5-Fluorouracil-Based Chemotherapy in a Patient with Metastatic Colonic-Type Adenocarcinoma Arising in a Primary Mediastinal Teratoma
Authors: Dechaphunkul Arunee , Bigras Gilbert , Sawyer Michael
Published: September 2012

Germ cell tumor with somatic malignant transformation is an uncommon phenomenon occurring about 7% of all mediastinal teratomas. Among all transformed component, sarcoma appears to be the most frequent histology, followed by primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) and adenocarcinoma. To our knowledge, there were 3 cases of colonic-type adenocarcinoma arising in a primary teratoma have been reported to date. However, none of them received chemotherapy directed to transformed histology given localized disease at presentation. We, therefore, report here the first case of patient who achieved good response from chemotherapy directed to transformed histology, which confirms the importance of chemotherapy regimen used.
Metaoptics with Nonrelativistic Matter Waves
Authors: Taillandier-Loize T. , Baudon J. , Hamamda M. , Dutier G. , Bocvarski V. , Boustimi M. , Perales F. , Ducloy M.
Published: September 2012

The counterpart of metamaterials in light optics for nonrelativistic matter waves governed by the Schrödinger equation can be found by transiently reversing the group velocity using a so called comoving potential. Possible applications to wave-packet dynamics, atom interferometry, and atom deceleration are described.
Add-on Lamotrigine Treatment for Subsyndromal Depression after Manic or Mixed States in Bipolar Disorder Improved the Quality of Life
Authors: Muneoka Katsumasa , Kon Katsushi , Kawabe Masaharu , Ui Rui , Miura Taichi , Iimura Touta , Kimura Shou
Published: September 2012

Two cases of patients experienced subsyndromal depression after manic or mixed hypomanic and depressive episodes due to bipolar I (case 1) and II (case 2) disorders prior to the use of lamotrigine. Case 1 showed episodes of mood switching induced by antidepressants and seasonal mood instability. Case 2 showed hippocampal atrophy and a persistent dull headache that preceded the use of lamotrigine. Both were successfully treated with add-on lamotrigine therapy, and the dull headache was effectively treated with olanzapine. Both patients improved in social activity and work performance after these add-on treatments. Thus, add-on treatment with lamotrigine alone or in combination with olanzapine was an effective strategy to improve the quality of life in bipolar depression. Subsyndromal depression that present after the disappearance of the manic or mixed state was suggested to be practical indication for the use of lamotrigine.
Elastomeric Polymers for Retrofitting of Reinforced Concrete Structures against the Explosive Effects of Blast
Authors: Raman S. N. , Ngo T. , Mendis P. , Pham T.
Published: September 2012

The main distinction of blast load from other types of dynamic loadings is its impulsive nature, where the loads usually act for a very short duration but transmit very high impulsive pressures. This paper presents an overview of the present retrofitting techniques in use to enhance the capacity of structural elements to withstand the effects of blast loads, and introduces an alternative retrofitting approach by utilizing polymer coatings. The authors have demonstrated the positive effects of this approach by conducting a numerical investigation on the behavior of an unretrofitted reinforced concrete panel subjected to the blast load from a 2 kg charge at 1.6 m stand-off distance, and subsequently comparing its performance with several polymer coated panels. The analysis was performed by using an explicit nonlinear finite element (FE) code. The results demonstrate the contributions of this technique in terms of panel displacement control and energy dissipation. Considering that the polymer coating can also act as a protective layer in improving the durability of structural materials, this technique can also be optimized favorably to enhance the overall sustainability of structures.
Cost-Effective Paramagnetic Bead Technique for Purification of Cycle Sequencing Products
Authors: Mijatovic-Rustempasic Slavica , Frace Michael A. , Bowen Michael D.
Published: September 2012

The quality of sequencing results depends greatly upon the quality and purity of the template as well as the purity of the fluorescently labeled products generated by cycle sequencing. Numerous approaches have been used for purification of cycle sequencing products, including alcohol precipitation, affinity-based chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, commercially-available proprietary methods, and paramagnetic bead technology. In this paper, we describe an affordable paramagnetic technology method using BioMag Carboxyl beads. Compared to other well-established, proprietary methods for purification of cycle sequencing products, this method produced consistently good results, with a very low reagent cost and short procedure time.
Rare Presentation of Unilateral Weakness, Involuntary Movements and Ataxia with Subcortical T2 Hypointensity in a Diabetic Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Indiran Venkatraman , Maduraimuthu Prabakaran
Published: September 2012

Subcortical T2 hypointensity on MRI is not a common finding. We present a case of subcortical T2 hypointensity in a diabetic patient, who was referred with weakness of left lower limb and involuntary movements and ataxia of the left upper limb. Lab reports confirmed the diagnosis of nonketotic hyperglycemia. It is rather important to identify subcortical T2 hypointensity which has only been recently found to be associated with nonketotic hyperglycemia. Early identification and prompt correction of blood sugar would help in alleviating the neurological symptoms.
Biphasic Activation of Nuclear Factor-Kappa B in Experimental Models of Subarachnoid HemorrhageIn VivoandIn Vitro
Authors: You Wan-Chun , Li Wei , Zhuang Zong , Tang Yong , Lu Hu-Chen , Ji Xiang-Jun , Shen Wei , Shi Ji-Xin , Zhou Meng-Liang
Published: September 2012

It has been proven that nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is activated as a well-known transcription factor after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). However, the panoramic view of NF-κB activity after SAH remained obscure. Cultured neurons were signed into control group and six hemoglobin- (Hb-) incubated groups. One-hemorrhage rabbit SAH model was produced, and the rabbits were divided randomly into one control group and five SAH groups. NF-κB activity was detected by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and immunohistochemistry. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to assess the downstream genes of NF-κB. NeuN immunofluorescence and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) quantification were used to estimate the neuron injury. Double drastically elevated NF-κB activity peaks were detected in rabbit brains and cultured neurons. The downstream gene expressions showed an accordant phase peaks. NeuN-positive cells decreased significantly in day 3 and day 10 groups. LDH leakage exhibited a significant increase in Hb-incubated groups, but no significant difference was found between the Hb incubated groups. These results suggested that biphasic increasing of NF-κB activity was induced after SAH, and the early NF-κB activity peak indicated the injury role on neurons; however, the late peak might not be involved in the deteriorated effect on neurons.
Modeling of Tooling-Workpiece Interactions on Random Surfaces
Authors: Kataria Hitesh , Carrano Andres L. , Thorn Brian K.
Published: September 2012

Abrasive processes, commonly employed in manufacturing, are difficult to model because they rely on brittle particles with unknown geometry and multiple points of contact. Newly developed microreplicated abrasives allow for control of abrasive grit properties such as size, shape, and distribution. This paper proposes and validates a parametric model of abrasive machining that allows for studying the interaction of this particular tooling with randomly generated surfaces. In this work, the parameters of a probability distribution function that represents the workpiece surface are approximated by profilometry data. Monte Carlo simulation is used to account for inter- and intraspecimen variability. A geometric representation is used to mathematically represent the interaction between workpiece and tool. The results show good correlation between theoretical and actual values. This approach could be used to aid in tool geometry design as well as in process parameter optimization.
The Uniform Boundedness Theorem in Asymmetric Normed Spaces
Authors: Alegre C. , Romaguera S. , Veeramani P.
Published: September 2012

We obtain a uniform boundedness type theorem in the frame of asymmetric normed spaces. The classical result for normed spaces follows as a particular case.