bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ginseng and Anticancer Drug Combination to Improve Cancer Chemotherapy: A Critical Review
Authors: Chen Shihong , Wang Zhijun , Huang Ying , O′Barr Stephen A. , Wong Rebecca A. , Yeung Steven , Chow Moses Sing Sum
Published: April 2014

Ginseng, a well‐known herb, is often used in combination with anticancer drugs to enhance chemotherapy. Its wide usage as well as many documentations are often cited to support its clinical benefit of such combination therapy. However the literature based on objective evidence to make such recommendation is still lacking. The present review critically evaluated relevant studies reported in English and Chinese literature on such combination. Based on our review, we found good evidence from in vitro and in vivo animal studies showing enhanced antitumor effect when ginseng is used in combination with some anticancer drugs. However, there is insufficient clinical evidence of such benefit as very few clinical studies are available. Future research should focus on clinically relevant studies of such combination to validate the utility of ginseng in cancer.
Osteodifferentiated Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Bone Marrow and Adipose Tissue Express HLA-G and Display Immunomodulatory Properties in HLA-Mismatched Settings: Implications in Bone Repair Therapy
Authors: Montespan Florent , Deschaseaux Frédéric , Sensébé Luc , Carosella Edgardo D. , Rouas-Freiss Nathalie
Published: April 2014

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that can be obtained from several sources such as bone marrow and adipose tissue. Depending on the culture conditions, they can differentiate into osteoblasts, chondroblasts, adipocytes, or neurons. In this regard, they constitute promising candidates for cell-based therapy aimed at repairing damaged tissues. In addition, MSCs display immunomodulatory properties through the expression of soluble factors including HLA-G. We here analyse both immunogenicity and immunosuppressive capacity of MSCs derived from bone marrow and adipose tissue before and after osteodifferentiation. Results show that HLA-G expression is maintained after osteodifferentiation and can be boosted in inflammatory conditions mimicked by the addition of IFN-γand TNF-α. Both MSCs and osteodifferentiated MSCs are hypoimmunogenic and exert immunomodulatory properties in HLA-mismatched settings as they suppress T cell alloproliferation in mixed lymphocyte reactions. Finally, addition of biomaterials that stimulate bone tissue formation did not modify MSC immune properties. As MSCs combine both abilities of osteoregeneration and immunomodulation, they may be considered as allogenic sources for the treatment of bone defects.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of EnterotoxigenicEscherichia coliClinical Isolates from Northern Colombia, South America
Authors: Guerra Julio A. , Romero-Herazo Yesenia C. , Arzuza Octavio , Gómez-Duarte Oscar G.
Published: April 2014

EnterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC) are major causes of childhood diarrhea in low and middle income countries including Colombia, South America. To understand the diversity of ETEC strains in the region, clinical isolates obtained from northern Colombia children were evaluated for multiple locus sequencing typing, serotyping, classical and nonclassical virulence genes, and antibiotic susceptibility. Among 40 ETEC clinical isolates evaluated, 21 (52.5%) were positive for LT gene, 13 (32.5%) for ST gene, and 6 (15%) for both ST and LT. The most prevalent colonization surface antigens (CS) were CS21 and CFA/I identified in 21 (50%) and 13 (32.5%) isolates, respectively. TheeatA,irp2, andfyuAwere the most common nonclassical virulence genes present in more than 60% of the isolates. Ampicillin resistance (80% of the strains) was the most frequent phenotype among ETEC strains followed by trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole resistance (52.5%). Based on multiple locus sequencing typing (MLST), we recognize that 6 clonal groups of ETEC clinical isolates circulate in Colombia. ETEC clinical isolates from children in northern Colombia are highly diverse, yet some isolates circulating in the community belong to well-defined clonal groups that share a unique set of virulence factors, serotypes, and MLST sequence types.
Unipolar Mania: Recent Updates and Review of the Literature
Authors: Mehta Shubham
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Unipolar mania (UM) has received less than the expected attention, when compared to its contemporary mood disorders, unipolar depression (UD) and bipolar disorder (BD).Method. The literature search included PUBMED and PSYCINFO databases. Cross-searches of key references were made to identify other articles of importance.Results. There seems to be a bipolar subgroup with a stable, unipolar recurrent manic course. Although UM does not have significant differences from bipolar mania in terms of sociodemographic variables, there are certain significant differences in clinical features. UM is reported to have more grandiosity, psychotic symptoms, and premorbid hyperthymic temperament, but less rapid cycling, suicidality, seasonality, and comorbid anxiety disorders. It seems to have a better course of illness with better social and professional adjustment. However, its response to lithium prophylaxis is found to be poor as compared to classical BD and valproate could be a better choice in this case.Conclusion. The available literature suggests that UM has certain differences from classical BD. The evidence, however, is insufficient to categorize it as separate diagnostic entity. However, considering UM as a course specifier of BD would be a reasonable step.
Potential Retinoid X Receptor Agonists for Treating Alzheimer’s Disease from Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Chen Kuan-Chung , Liu Yu-Cheng , Lee Cheng-Chun , Chen Calvin Yu-Chian
Published: April 2014

Alzheimer’s disease is neurodegenerative disorder due to the accumulation of amyloid‐β in the brain and causes dementia with ageing. Some researches indicate that the RXR agonist, Targretin, has also been used for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease in mouse models. We investigate the potent candidates as RXR agonists from the vast repertoire of TCM compounds in TCM Database@Taiwan. The potential TCM compounds, β‐lipoic acid and sulfanilic acid, had higher potent binding affinities than both 9‐cis‐retinoic acid and Targretin in docking simulation and have stable H‐bonds with residues Arg316 and some equivalent hydrophobic contacts with residues Ala272, Gln275, Leu309, Phe313, Val342, Ile345, and Cys432 as Targretin. The carboxyl or sulfonyl hydroxide group can form a H‐bond with key residue Arg316 in the docking pose, and the phenyl group next to the carboxyl or sulfonyl hydroxide group can form a π interaction with residue Phe313. Moreover, β‐lipoic acid and sulfanilic acid have stable H‐bonds with residue Gln275, Ser313, and residue Ala327, respectively, which may strengthen and stabilize TCM candidates inside the binding domain of RXR protein. Hence, we propose β‐lipoic acid and sulfanilic acid as potential lead compounds for further study in drug development process with the RXR protein against Alzheimer’s disease.
Cognitive Dysfunction after On-Pump Operations: Neuropsychological Characteristics and Optimal Core Battery of Tests
Authors: Polunina Anna G. , Golukhova Elena Z. , Guekht Alla B. , Lefterova Natalia P. , Bokeria Leo A.
Published: April 2014

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a mild form of perioperative ischemic brain injury, which emerges as memory decline, decreased attention, and decreased concentration during several months, or even years, after surgery. Here we present results of our three neuropsychological studies, which overall included 145 patients after on-pump operations. We found that the auditory memory span test (digit span) was more effective as a tool for registration of POCD, in comparison with the word-list learning and story-learning tests. Nonverbal memory or visuoconstruction tests were sensitive to POCD in patients after intraoperative opening of cardiac chambers with increased cerebral air embolism. Psychomotor speed tests (digit symbol, or TMT A) registered POCD, which was characteristic for elderly atherosclerotic patients. Finally, we observed that there were significant effects of the order of position of a test on the performance on this test. For example, the postoperative performance on the core tests (digit span and digit symbol) showed minimal impairment when either of these tests was administered at the beginning of testing. Overall, our data shows that the selection of tests, and the order of which these tests are administered, may considerably influence the results of studies of POCD.
Clinical Applications of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Chronic Diseases
Authors: Farini Andrea , Sitzia Clementina , Erratico Silvia , Meregalli Mirella , Torrente Yvan
Published: April 2014

Extraordinary progress in understanding several key features of stem cells has been made in the last ten years, including definition of the niche, and identification of signals regulating mobilization and homing as well as partial understanding of the mechanisms controlling self-renewal, commitment, and differentiation. This progress produced invaluable tools for the development of rational cell therapy protocols that have yielded positive results in preclinical models of genetic and acquired diseases and, in several cases, have entered clinical experimentation with positive outcome. Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are nonhematopoietic cells with multilineage potential to differentiate into various tissues of mesodermal origin. They can be isolated from bone marrow and other tissues and have the capacity to extensively proliferatein vitro. Moreover, MSCs have also been shown to produce anti-inflammatory molecules which can modulate humoral and cellular immune responses. Considering their regenerative potential and immunoregulatory effect, MSC therapy is a promising tool in the treatment of degenerative, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. It is obvious that much work remains to be done to increase our knowledge of the mechanisms regulating development, homeostasis, and tissue repair and thus to provide new tools to implement the efficacy of cell therapy trials.
Extension of the GSMW Formula in Weaker Assumptions
Authors: Wang Wenfeng , Chen Xi
Published: April 2014

In this note, the generalized Sherman-Morrison-Woodbury (for short GSMW) formula(A+YGZ∗)⊙=A⊙−A⊙Y(G⊙+Z∗A⊙Y)⊙Z∗A⊙is extended under some assumptions weaker than those used by Duan, 2013.
The Property of the Set of Equilibria of the Equilibrium Problem with Lower and Upper Bounds on Hadamard Manifolds
Authors: Zhang Qing-Bang , Tang Gusheng
Published: April 2014

The existence of equilibrium points, and the essential stability of the set of equilibrium points of the equilibrium problem with lower and upper bounds are studied on Hadamard manifolds.
FOXP3 Transcription Factor: A Candidate Marker for Susceptibility and Prognosis in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Fiori Lopes Leandra , Losi Guembarovski Roberta , Guembarovski Alda Losi , Okuyama Kishima Marina , Campos Clodoaldo Zago , Oda Julie Massayo Maeda , Ariza Carolina Batista , de Oliveira Karen Brajão , Borelli Sueli Donizete , Watanabe Maria Angelica Ehara
Published: April 2014

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a relevant subgroup of neoplasia which presents negative phenotype of estrogen and progesterone receptors and has no overexpression of the human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2). FOXP3 (forkhead transcription factor 3) is a marker of regulatory T cells (Tregs), whose expression may be increased in tumor cells. This study aimed to investigate a polymorphism (rs3761548) and the protein expression of FOXP3 for a possible involvement in TNBC susceptibility and prognosis. Genetic polymorphism was evaluated in 50 patients and in 115 controls by allele-specific PCR (polymerase chain reaction). Protein expression was evaluated in 38 patients by immunohistochemistry. It was observed a positive association for homozygous AA (OR = 3.78; 95% CI = 1.02–14.06) in relation to TNBC susceptibility. Most of the patients (83%) showed a strong staining for FOXP3 protein in the tumor cells. In relation to FOXP3-positive infiltrate, 47% and 58% of patients had a moderate or intense intratumoral and peritumoral mononuclear infiltrate cells, respectively. Tumor size was positively correlated to intratumoral FOXP3-positive infiltrate (P=0.026). In conclusion, since FOXP3 was positively associated with TNBC susceptibility and prognosis, it seems to be a promising candidate for further investigation in larger TNBC samples.
Bolus-Infusion Delays of Alteplase during Thrombolysis in Acute Ischaemic Stroke and Functional Outcome at 3 Months
Authors: Acheampong Paul , May Margaret T. , Ford Gary A. , Dixit Anand K.
Published: April 2014

Background. The efficacy of alteplase in acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) is highly time dependent. Hence, alteplase is administered as soon as possible with a bolus followed by an infusion. Delays between bolus and infusion may occur, but the extent of these delays and the impact on outcome are unclear.Aims. We investigated the extent of bolus-infusion delays and the relationship between delays and stroke outcome.Method. We reviewed medical records of 276 patients who received alteplase for AIS at our centre between April, 2008, and June, 2013. Complete demographic and clinical data including 3-month modified Rankin Score (mRS) from 229 patients were analysed comparing delays of 0–8 and >8 minutes.Results. Overall mean (SD) bolus-infusion delay was 9 (7) minutes. Baseline characteristics were similar apart from more severe strokes in delays >8 minutes. Three-month outcomes were not significantly different although delays >8 minutes had lower functional independence rate (mRS 0-1: 23.1% versus 28.1%; adjusted OR 1.2 (95% CI 0.6 to 2.4,P=0.68)) and higher mortality rate (18% versus 11%, OR 1.0, 95% CI 0.6 to 1.7,P=0.95).Conclusions. In this single centre series, bolus-infusion delays of alteplase in AIS were common and no effect of bolus-infusion delays on independence and mortality was found.
Numerical and Experimental Modal Control of Flexible Rotor Using Electromagnetic Actuator
Authors: Koroishi Edson Hideki , Borges Adriano Silva , Cavalini Aldemir Ap , Steffen Valder
Published: April 2014

The present work is dedicated to active modal control applied to flexible rotors. The effectiveness of the corresponding techniques for controlling a flexible rotor is tested numerically and experimentally. Two different approaches are used to determine the appropriate controllers. The first uses the linear quadratic regulator and the second approach is the fuzzy modal control. This paper is focused on the electromagnetic actuator, which in this case is part of a hybrid bearing. Due to numerical reasons it was necessary to reduce the size of the model of the rotating system so that the design of the controllers and estimator could be performed. The role of the Kalman estimator in the present contribution is to estimate the modal states of the system and to determine the displacement of the rotor at the position of the hybrid bearing. Finally, numerical and experimental results demonstrate the success of the methodology conveyed.
Acoustic and Vibration Control for an Underwater Structure under Mechanical Excitation
Authors: Zhu Shi-Jian , Weng Xue-Tao , Dai Hong-Liang , Fu Yi-Ming , Mao Yi-Qi
Published: April 2014

Acoustic and vibration control for an underwater structure under mechanical excitation has been investigated by using negative feedback control algorithm. The underwater structure is modeled with cylindrical shells, conical shells, and circular bulkheads, of which the motion equations are built with the variational approach, respectively. Acoustic property is analyzed by the Helmholtz integration formulation with boundary element method. Based on negative feedback control algorithm, a control loop with a coupling use of piezoelectric sensor and actuator is built, and accordingly some numerical examples are carried out on active control of structural vibration and acoustic response. Effects of geometrical and material parameters on acoustic and vibration properties are investigated and discussed.
Design and Reliability of a Novel Heel Rise Test Measuring Device for Plantarflexion Endurance
Authors: Sman Amy D. , Hiller Claire E. , Imer Adam , Ocsing Aldrin , Burns Joshua , Refshauge Kathryn M.
Published: April 2014

Background. Plantarflexion results from the combined action of the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles in the calf. The heel rise test is commonly used to test calf muscle endurance, function, and performance by a wide variety of professionals; however, no uniform description of the test is available. This paper aims to document the construction and reliability of a novel heel rise test device and measurement protocol that is suitable for the needs of most individuals.Methods. This device was constructed from compact and lightweight materials and is fully adjustable, enabling the testing of a wide variety of individuals. It is easy to assemble and disassemble, ensuring that it is portable for use in different settings.Findings. We tested reliability on 40 participants, finding excellent interrater reliability (ICC2,10.97, 95% CI: 0.94 to 0.98). Limits of agreement were less than two repetitions in 90% of cases and the Bland-Altman plot showed no bias.Interpretation. We have designed a novel, standardized, simple, and reliable device and measurement protocol for the heel rise test which can be used by researchers and clinicians in a variety of settings.
The Challenges of Conducting a Nurse-Led Intervention in a Randomized Controlled Trial with Vulnerable Participants
Authors: Park Tanya , Usher Kim , Foster Kim
Published: April 2014

This paper discusses the challenges encountered by researchers while conducting a randomized controlled trial (RCT) testing the efficacy of a healthy lifestyle educational and exercise intervention for people with serious mental illness. RCTs, even though considered the “gold standard” of research designs, are still prone to risks of potential bias and threats to their validity. Based on researcher reflexivity, the combination of reflection and action, during the conduct of the study, this paper outlines a number of challenges faced by the researchers. These included managing the need of participants to tell their story and be heard, reluctance of participants to remain in allocated groups, participant literacy, dual role of the nurse nurse-researcher, and reporting the benefits of nonstatistical results of a quantitative research project. Recommendations for conducting future behaviour intervention studies of this type include the incorporation of a reflexive component for the nurse nurse-researcher, highlighting the importance of taking a reflexive stance in both qualitative and quantitative research designs.
Perseveration Found in a Human Drawing Task: Six-Fingered Hands Drawn by Patients with Right Anterior Insula and Operculum Damage
Authors: Niki Chiharu , Maruyama Takashi , Muragaki Yoshihiro , Kumada Takatsune
Published: April 2014

Background. Perseveration has been observed in a number of behavioural contexts, including speaking, writing, and drawing. However, no previous report describes patients who show perseveration only for drawing a human figure.Objective. The present report describes a group of patients who show body awareness-related cognitive impairment during a human figure drawing task, a different presentation from previously described neuropsychological cases.Methods. Participants were 15 patients who had a frontal lobe brain tumour around the insula cortex of the right hemisphere and had subsequently undergone a neurosurgical resective operation. Participants were asked to draw a human figure in both “hands-down” and “hands-up” configurations.Results. Eight of the 15 patients drew a human figure with six fingers during the “hands-up” and the “hands-down” human figure drawing tasks (one patient drew eight fingers). A statistical analysis of potential lesion areas revealed damage to the right anterior frontal insula and operculum in this group of patients relative to the five-finger drawing group.Conclusions. Our findings reveal a newly described neuropsychological phenomenon that could reflect impairment in attention directed towards body representations.
M/M/1 Retrial Queue with Working Vacation Interruption and Feedback under N-Policy
Authors: Tao Li , Zhang Liyuan , Gao Shan
Published: April 2014

We consider an M/M/1 retrial queue with working vacations, vacation interruption, Bernoulli feedback, and N-policy simultaneously. During the working vacation period, customers can be served at a lower rate. Using the matrix-analytic method, we get the necessary and sufficient condition for the system to be stable. Furthermore, the stationary probability distribution and some performance measures are also derived. Moreover, we prove the conditional stochastic decomposition for the queue length in the orbit. Finally, we present some numerical examples and use the parabolic method to search the optimum value of service rate in working vacation period.
Fault Severity Evaluation and Improvement Design for Mechanical Systems Using the Fault Injection Technique and Gini Concordance Measure
Authors: Wu Jianing , Yan Shaoze
Published: April 2014

A new fault injection and Gini concordance based method has been developed for fault severity analysis for multibody mechanical systems concerning their dynamic properties. The fault tree analysis (FTA) is employed to roughly identify the faults needed to be considered. According to constitution of the mechanical system, the dynamic properties can be achieved by solving the equations that include many types of faults which are injected by using the fault injection technique. Then, the Gini concordance is used to measure the correspondence between the performance with faults and under normal operation thereby providing useful hints of severity ranking in subsystems for reliability design. One numerical example and a series of experiments are provided to illustrate the application of the new method. The results indicate that the proposed method can accurately model the faults and receive the correct information of fault severity. Some strategies are also proposed for reliability improvement of the spacecraft solar array.
Synergy of the Combination of Titanate Nanotubes with Titania Nanoparticles for the Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation from Water-Methanol Mixture Using Simulated Sunlight
Authors: Serra Marco , Garcia Hermenegildo
Published: April 2014

Alkali digestion of titanium nanoparticles leads, after neutralization, to the formation of titanate nanotubes with long aspect ratio. One salient change in the formation of titanate nanotubes is the observation of an extended visible absorption band up to 550 nm, responsible for their brown colour. Combination of titanate nanotubes with commercial titanium dioxide nanoparticles, either Evonik P25 or Millennium PC500, results in an enhanced photocatalytic activity for hydrogen generation from water-methanol mixtures. This synergy between the two titanium semiconductors has an optimum for a certain proportion of the two components and is observed in both the absence and the presence of platinum or gold nanoparticles. The best efficiency under simulated sunlight irradiation was for a combination of 12 wt.% titanate nanotubes containing 0.32 wt.% platinum in 88 wt.% Millennium PC500, where a two-time increase in the hydrogen generation is observed versus the activity of Millennium PC500 containing platinum. This synergy is proposed to derive from the interfacial electron transfer from titanate nanotubes undergoing photoexcitation at wavelengths in which Millennium PC500 does not absorb this form of titania nanoparticles. Our results illustrate how the combination of several titanium semiconductors can result in an enhancement efficiency with respect to their individual components.
The Role of Physical Exercise in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Bilski Jan , Brzozowski Bartosz , Mazur-Bialy Agnieszka , Sliwowski Zbigniew , Brzozowski Tomasz
Published: April 2014

We reviewed and analyzed the relationship between physical exercise and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which covers a group of chronic, relapsing, and remitting intestinal disorders including Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis. The etiology of IBD likely involves a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental risk factors. Physical training has been suggested to be protective against the onset of IBD, but there are inconsistencies in the findings of the published literature. Hypertrophy of the mesenteric white adipose tissue (mWAT) is recognized as a characteristic feature of CD, but its importance for the perpetuation of onset of this intestinal disease is unknown. Adipocytes synthesize proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Hypertrophy of mWAT could play a role as a barrier to the inflammatory process, but recent data suggest that deregulation of adipokine secretion is involved in the pathogenesis of CD. Adipocytokines and macrophage mediators perpetuate the intestinal inflammatory process, leading to mucosal ulcerations along the mesenteric border, a typical feature of CD. Contracting skeletal muscles release biologically active myokines, known to exert the direct anti-inflammatory effects, and inhibit the release of proinflammatory mediators from visceral fat. Further research is required to confirm these observations and establish exercise regimes for IBD patients.
A Novel Clustering Algorithm for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks Based on Determination of Virtual Links’ Weight to Increase Network Stability
Authors: Karimi Abbas , Afsharfarnia Abbas , Zarafshan Faraneh , Al-Haddad S. A. R.
Published: April 2014

The stability of clusters is a serious issue in mobile ad hoc networks. Low stability of clusters may lead to rapid failure of clusters, high energy consumption for reclustering, and decrease in the overall network stability in mobile ad hoc network. In order to improve the stability of clusters, weight-based clustering algorithms are utilized. However, these algorithms only use limited features of the nodes. Thus, they decrease the weight accuracy in determining node’s competency and lead to incorrect selection of cluster heads. A new weight-based algorithm presented in this paper not only determines node’s weight using its own features, but also considers the direct effect of feature of adjacent nodes. It determines the weight of virtual links between nodes and the effect of the weights on determining node’s final weight. By using this strategy, the highest weight is assigned to the best choices for being the cluster heads and the accuracy of nodes selection increases. The performance of new algorithm is analyzed by using computer simulation. The results show that produced clusters have longer lifetime and higher stability. Mathematical simulation shows that this algorithm has high availability in case of failure.
The Kampo Medicine Rokumigan Possesses Antibiofilm, Anti-Inflammatory, and Wound Healing Properties
Authors: Liao James , Azelmat Jabrane , Zhao Lei , Yoshioka Masami , Hinode Daisuke , Grenier Daniel
Published: April 2014

Periodontal diseases, which are inflammatory diseases of bacterial origin affecting the tooth-supporting tissues, are characterized by inflammation and destruction of gingival connective tissue and alveolar bone, and may lead to tooth loss. The aim of the study was to investigate Rokumigan, a Kampo Japanese traditional medicine made of six different plants, for its capacity to prevent biofilm formation byFusobacterium nucleatum, to inhibit interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) secretion by mucosal cells, and to promote wound healing in a fibroblast model. Using a microplate colorimetric assay, Rokumigan prevented biofilm formation byF. nucleatum, while it had no effect on bacterial growth. Rokumigan inhibited IL-6 secretion in both epithelial cells and fibroblasts stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. However, it caused no significant inhibition of IL-8 secretion by both cell types. Rokumigan significantly increased proliferation and migration of gingival fibroblasts in a wound healing assay. In conclusion, the Kampo formulation Rokumigan, through suppression of biofilm formation byF. nucleatum, inhibition of IL-6 secretion by gingival epithelial cells and fibroblasts, and promotion of wound healing in a fibroblast model, may have potential application for periodontal diseases.
Solution of Some Types of Differential Equations: Operational Calculus and Inverse Differential Operators
Authors: Zhukovsky K.
Published: April 2014

We present a general method of operational nature to analyze and obtain solutions for a variety of equations of mathematical physics and related mathematical problems. We construct inverse differential operators and produce operational identities, involving inverse derivatives and families of generalised orthogonal polynomials, such as Hermite and Laguerre polynomial families. We develop the methodology of inverse and exponential operators, employing them for the study of partial differential equations. Advantages of the operational technique, combined with the use of integral transforms, generating functions with exponentials and their integrals, for solving a wide class of partial derivative equations, related to heat, wave, and transport problems, are demonstrated.
Cystitis: From Urothelial Cell Biology to Clinical Applications
Authors: Lee Gilho , Romih Rok , Zupančič Daša
Published: April 2014

Cystitis is a urinary bladder disease with many causes and symptoms. The severity of cystitis ranges from mild lower abdominal discomfort to life-threatening haemorrhagic cystitis. The course of disease is often chronic or recurrent. Although cystitis represents huge economical and medical burden throughout the world and in many cases treatments are ineffective, the mechanisms of its origin and development as well as measures for effective treatment are still poorly understood. However, many studies have demonstrated that urothelial dysfunction plays a crucial role. In the present review we first discuss fundamental issues of urothelial cell biology, which is the core for comprehension of cystitis. Then we focus on many forms of cystitis, its current treatments, and advances in its research. Additionally we review haemorrhagic cystitis with one of the leading causative agents being chemotherapeutic drug cyclophosphamide and summarise its management strategies. At the end we describe an excellent and widely used animal model of cyclophosphamide induced cystitis, which gives researches the opportunity to get a better insight into the mechanisms involved and possibility to develop new therapy approaches.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Use of Novel Bimetal Oxide Catalyst for Photoassisted Degradation of Malachite Green Dye
Authors: Ameta K. L. , Papnai Neema , Ameta Rakshit
Published: April 2014

This work reports a simple, novel, and cost effective synthesis of nanobimetal oxide catalyst using cerium and cadmium nitrates as metal precursors. The cerium-cadmium oxide nanophotocatalyst was synthesized by coprecipitation method and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction method to analyze the particle size. XRD study reveals a high degree of crystallinity and 28.43 nm particle size. The photocatalytic efficiency of the synthesized nanobimetal catalyst was examined by using it for the photocatalytic degradation of malachite green dye. Experiments were conducted to study the effect of various parameters, such as the pH of the dye solution, concentration of dye, amount of catalyst, and light intensity on the rate of dye degradation. The progress of the dye degradation was monitored spectrophotometrically by taking the optical density of the dye solution at regular intervals. Experimental results indicate that the dye degrades best at pH 8.0 with light intensity 600 Wm−2 and catalyst loading 0.03 g/50 mL of dye solution. The rate constant for the reaction was 7.67 × 10−4 s−1.
A Survey of Italian Physicians' Opinion about Stem Cells Research: What Doctors Prefer and What the Law Requires
Authors: Frati Paola , Gulino Matteo , Pacchiarotti Arianna , D'Errico Stefano , Sicuro Lorella , Fineschi Vittorio
Published: April 2014

To evaluate the Italian physicians' knowledge/information level about the therapeutic potential of stem cells, the research choice between embryonic and cordonal stem cells, and the preference between autologous and heterologous storage of cordonal stem cells, we performed a national survey. The questionnaire—distributed to 3361 physicians—involved physicians of different religious orientations and of different medical specialities. Most of the physicians involved (67%) were Catholics, and the majority were gynaecologists and paediatricians (43%) who are mainly in charge to inform future mothers about the possibility of cordonal stem cells conservation. The majority of the physicians interviewed do not have specific knowledge about stem cells (59%), most of them having only generic information (92%). The largest part of physicians prefer to use umbilical cord blood cells rather than embryonic stem cells. Nevertheless, a large percentage of physicians were in favour of embryo research, especially when embryos are supernumerary (44% versus 34%). Eighty-seven % of the physicians interviewed proved to have a general knowledge about stem cells and believe in their therapeutic potential. They prefer research on cordonal stem cells rather than on embryo stem cells. Although they are in favour of heterologous stem cells donation, they still prefer cryopreservation for personal use.
Efficiently Implementing the Maximum Likelihood Estimator for Hurst Exponent
Authors: Chang Yen-Ching
Published: April 2014

This paper aims to efficiently implement the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) for Hurst exponent, a vital parameter embedded in the process of fractional Brownian motion (FBM) or fractional Gaussian noise (FGN), via a combination of the Levinson algorithm and Cholesky decomposition. Many natural and biomedical signals can often be modeled as one of these two processes. It is necessary for users to estimate the Hurst exponent to differentiate one physical signal from another. Among all estimators for estimating the Hurst exponent, the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) is optimal, whereas its computational cost is also the highest. Consequently, a faster but slightly less accurate estimator is often adopted. Analysis discovers that the combination of the Levinson algorithm and Cholesky decomposition can avoid storing any matrix and performing any matrix multiplication and thus save a great deal of computer memory and computational time. In addition, the first proposed MLE for the Hurst exponent was based on the assumptions that the mean is known as zero and the variance is unknown. In this paper, all four possible situations are considered: known mean, unknown mean, known variance, and unknown variance. Experimental results show that the MLE through efficiently implementing numerical computation can greatly enhance the computational performance.
Design and Evaluation of Voriconazole Eye Drops for the Treatment of Fungal Keratitis
Authors: Malhotra Sakshi , Khare Anubha , Grover Kanchan , Singh Inderbir , Pawar Pravin
Published: April 2014

Voriconazole is a novel antifungal agent with excellent broad spectrum activity commercially available for oral and intravenous administration. The purpose of this study was to prepare ophthalmic formulation of hydroxypropyl beta cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) based voriconazole containing benzalkonium chloride BAK and EDTA with or without viscosity modifiers and study its permeation characteristics through freshly excised goat cornea. The results were observed that viscosity and force of bioadhesion of the voriconazole HP-β-CD solutions containing xanthan gum (XG) are more as compared to polyvinyl alcohol. The results revealed that voriconazole drop containing PVA provided least viscosity and higher corneal permeation of drug, while drop formulated with XG had maximum viscosity and least permeation. The HP-β-CD based voriconazole (1.5%) ophthalmic formulation containing xanthan gum (1.5), preserved with BAK and EDTA, could provide shelf life of 2 years. The microbiological studies showed that voriconazole ophthalmic solution containing xanthan gum shows better antifungal activity as compared to voriconazole and xanthan gum alone. Thus, it can be concluded that HP-β-CD based voriconazole (1.5%, pH 7.0) ophthalmic solution containing BAK and EDTA with viscosity modifier XG provided maximum precorneal residence time as compared to other viscosity modifiers and polyvinyl alcohol provided less precorneal residence time than other viscosity modifiers.
Performance of Some Stochastic Restricted Ridge Estimator in Linear Regression Model
Authors: Wu Jibo , Liu Chaolin
Published: April 2014

This paper considers several estimators for estimating the stochastic restricted ridge regression estimators. A simulation study has been conducted to compare the performance of the estimators. The result from the simulation study shows that stochastic restricted ridge regression estimators outperform mixed estimator. A numerical example has been also given to illustrate the performance of the estimators.
The Existence of a Global Attractor for the S-K-T Competition Model with Self-Diffusion
Authors: Xu Qian , Zhao Ye
Published: April 2014

This paper concerns the uniform bounds of the global existence of solutions in time for the S-K-T competition model with self-diffusion. We prove that the system has a global attractor forn<8.
A Stochastic Predator-Prey System with Stage Structure for Predator
Authors: Zhao Shufen , Song Minghui
Published: April 2014

The authors introduce stochasticity into a predator-prey system with Beddington-DeAngelis functional response and stage structure for predator. We present the global existence and positivity of the solution and give sufficient conditions for the global stability in probability of the system. Numerical simulations are introduced to support the main theoretical results.
Numerical Manifold Method for the Forced Vibration of Thin Plates during Bending
Authors: Jun Ding , Song Chen , Wei-Bin Wen , Shao-Ming Luo , Xia Huang
Published: April 2014

A novel numerical manifold method was derived from the cubic B-spline basis function. The new interpolation function is characterized by high-order coordination at the boundary of a manifold element. The linear elastic-dynamic equation used to solve the bending vibration of thin plates was derived according to the principle of minimum instantaneous potential energy. The method for the initialization of the dynamic equation and its solution process were provided. Moreover, the analysis showed that the calculated stiffness matrix exhibited favorable performance. Numerical results showed that the generalized degrees of freedom were significantly fewer and that the calculation accuracy was higher for the manifold method than for the conventional finite element method.
Significance of Chromosome 9p Status in Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Quality of the Reported Studies
Authors: El-Mokadem Ismail , Fitzpatrick John , Rai Bhavan , Cunningham J. , Pratt Norman , Fleming Stewart , Nabi Ghulam
Published: April 2014

Defining the prognosis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) using genetic tests is an evolving area. The prognostic significance of 9p status in RCC, although described in the literature, remains underutilised in clinical practice. The study explored the causes of this translational gap. A systematic review on the significance of 9p status in RCC was performed to assess its clinical applicability and impact on clinical decision-making. Medline, Embase, and other electronic searches were made for studies reporting on 9p status in RCC. We collected data on: genetic techniques, pathological parameters, clinical outcomes, and completeness of follow-up assessment. Eleven studies reporting on 1,431 patients using different genetic techniques were included. The most commonly used genetic technique for the assessment of 9p status in RCC was fluorescence in situ hybridization. Combined genomic hybridisation (CGH), microsatellite analysis, karyotyping, and sequencing were other reported techniques. Various thresholds and cut-off values were used for the diagnosis of 9p deletion in different studies. Standardization, interobserver agreement, and consensus on the interpretation of test remained poor. The studies lacked validation and had high risk of bias and poor clinical applicability as assessed by two independent reviewers using a modified quality assessment tool. Further protocol driven studies with standardised methodology including use of appropriate positive and negative controls, assessment of interobserver variations, and evidenced based follow-up protocols are needed to clarify the role of 9p status in predicting oncological outcomes in renal cell cancer.
Purification and Characterization of Bioactive Compounds fromStyela clava
Authors: Ju Bao , Chen Bin , Zhang Xingrong , Han Chunling , Jiang Aili
Published: April 2014

The immunomodulatory activity of extract fromStyela clavawas studied systematically based on activity trackingin vitroin order to find out novel-structured secondary metabolite. The proliferation rates of mouse splenic lymphocytes and peritoneal macrophages were used as screening index, as well as NO release promoting activities. The crude extract (CE) and its different polar fractions fromS. clavaall exhibited proliferative activity of splenolymphocytes and mouse macrophages, as well as NO release promoting activities, among which petroleum ether fraction (PE) showed the strongest effect. The antioxidant experimentin vitroshowed that CE demonstrated antioxidant ability in 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) system and the beta carotene-linoleic acid system; the activity of ethyl acetate fraction (ET) was much stronger than that of the others. Further isolated by silica gel column chromatography, ET was classified into seven sub-components (E1~E7) listed in the order of activity asE5>E6>E4>E3>E7>E2>E1. Five compounds were separated as (1) cholesteric-7-en-3β-ol, (2) cholesteric-4-en-3β,6β-diol, (3) cholesterol, (4) batilol, and (5) ceramide, among which (1), (2), and (4) were isolated for the first time fromS. clava.
The Role of Mandibular Third Molars on Lower Anterior Teeth Crowding and Relapse after Orthodontic Treatment: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zawawi Khalid H. , Melis Marcello
Published: April 2014

Aims. To evaluate the role of third molars in the development of crowding or relapse after orthodontic treatment in the anterior segment of the dental arch.Methods. PubMed search of the literature was performed selecting all the articles relevant to the topic and limiting the studies to controlled trials on humans and written in English language. Systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) statement.Results. A total of 12 clinical studies were included in the review. A high risk of bias was found in most of the articles, either because the relative items assessed were inadequate or because they were unclearly described. The third molars were not correlated with more severe anterior tooth crowding in most of the studies. However, four of them described a different outcome.Conclusion. Definitive conclusions on the role of the third molars in the development of anterior tooth crowding cannot be drawn. A high risk of bias was found in most of the trials, and the outcomes were not consistent. However, most of the studies do not support a cause-and-effect relationship; therefore, third molar extraction to prevent anterior tooth crowding or postorthodontic relapse is not justified.
A Robust Probability Classifier Based on the Modified χ2‐Distance
Authors: Wang Yongzhi , Zhang Yuli , Yi Jining , Qu Honggang , Miu Jinli
Published: April 2014

We propose a robust probability classifier model to address
classification problems with data uncertainty. A class‐conditional probability
distributional set is constructed based on the modified χ2‐distance. Based on a “linear combination assumption” for the posterior class‐conditional probabilities,
we consider a classification criterion using the weighted sum of the
posterior probabilities. An optimal robust minimax classifier is defined as the
one with the minimal worst‐case absolute error loss function value over all
possible distributions belonging to the constructed distributional set. Based
on the conic duality theorem, we show that the resulted optimization problem
can be reformulated into a second order cone programming problem
which can be efficiently solved by interior algorithms. The robustness of the
proposed model can avoid the “overlearning” phenomenon on training sets
and thus keep a comparable accuracy on test sets. Numerical experiments
validate the effectiveness of the proposed model and further show that it also
provides promising results on multiple classification problems.
New Multiphase Hybrid Boost Converter with Wide Conversion Ratio for PV System
Authors: Pop-Calimanu Ioana-Monica , Renken Folker
Published: April 2014

A new multiphase hybrid boost converter, with wide conversion ratio as a solution for photovoltaic energy system, is presented in this paper. To ensure that all the phases of the converter operate at the same switching frequency we use interleaving topology. The proposed converter can be used as an interface between the PV system and the DC load/inverter. This multiphase converter has the advantage of reduced value and physical size of the input and output capacitor as well as the effort for the inductors. To validate the operation of the converter we provide the analyses and the simulation results of the converter.
High‐Speed Rail Train Timetabling Problem: A Time‐Space Network Based Method with an Improved Branch‐and‐Price Algorithm
Authors: He Bisheng , Song Rui , He Shiwei , Xu Yue
Published: April 2014

A time‐space network based optimization method is designed for high‐speed rail train timetabling problem to improve the service level of the high‐speed rail. The general time‐space path cost is presented which considers both the train travel time and the high‐speed rail operation requirements: (1) service frequency requirement; (2) stopping plan adjustment; and (3) priority of train types. Train timetabling problem based on time‐space path aims to minimize the total general time‐space path cost of all trains. An improved branch‐and‐price algorithm is applied to solve the large scale integer programming problem. When dealing with the algorithm, a rapid branching and node selection for branch‐and‐price tree and a heuristic train time‐space path generation for column generation are adopted to speed up the algorithm computation time. The computational results of a set of experiments on China’s high‐speed rail system are presented with the discussions about the model validation, the effectiveness of the general time‐space path cost, and the improved branch‐and‐price algorithm.