bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maintenance Electroconvulsive Therapy in a Patient with Treatment-Resistant Paranoid Schizophrenia and Comorbid Epilepsy
Authors: Micallef-Trigona Beppe , Spiteri Joseph
Published: July 2012

The treatment of choice for acute schizophrenia is antipsychotic drug treatment and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and should only be considered as an option for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, where treatment with clozapine has already proven ineffective or intolerable. The use of ECT as a maintenance treatment for patients with schizophrenia and comorbid epilepsy is uncommon as scant evidence exists to support this. We describe a patient with a serious case of paranoid schizophrenia and comorbid epilepsy who had not responded to typical and atypical antipsychotic medication, but responded remarkably to acute ECT and required maintenance ECT to sustain a positive therapeutic response.
Control and Synchronization of Chaos in RCL‐Shunted Josephson Junction with Noise Disturbance Using Only One Controller Term
Authors: Chen Di-Yi , Zhao Wei-Li , Ma Xiao-Yi , Zhang Run-Fan
Published: July 2012

This paper investigates the control and synchronization of the shunted nonlinear resistive‐capacitive‐inductance junction (RCLSJ) model under the condition of noise disturbance with only one single controller. Based on the sliding mode control method, the controller is designed to eliminate the chaotic behavior of Josephson junctions and realize the achievement of global asymptotic synchronization of coupled system. Numerical simulation results are presented to demonstrate the validity of the proposed method. The approach is simple and easy to implement and provides reference for chaos control and synchronization in relevant systems.
Control and Augmentation of Long-Term Plasmid Transgene ExpressionIn Vivoin Murine Muscle Tissue andEx Vivoin Patient Mesenchymal Tissue
Authors: Morrissey David , van Pijkeren Jan P. , Rajendran Simon , Collins Sara A. , Casey Garrett , O'Sullivan Gerald C. , Tangney Mark
Published: July 2012

Purpose. In vivogene therapy directed at tissues of mesenchymal origin could potentially augment healing. We aimed to assess the duration and magnitude of transene expressionin vivoin mice andex vivoin human tissues.Methods.Using bioluminescence imaging, plasmid and adenoviral vector-based transgene expression in murine quadricepsin vivowas examined. Temporal control was assessed using a doxycycline-inducible system. Anex vivomodel was developed and optimised using murine tissue, and applied inex vivohuman tissue.Results. In vivoplasmid-based transgene expression did not silence in murine muscle, unlike in liver. Although maximum luciferase expression was higher in muscle with adenoviral delivery compared with plasmid, expression reduced over time. The inducible promoter cassette successfully regulated gene expression with maximum levels a factor of 11 greater than baseline. Expression was re-induced to a similar level on a temporal basis. Luciferase expression was readily detectedex vivoin human muscle and tendon.Conclusions.Plasmid constructs resulted in long-termin vivogene expression in skeletal muscle, in a controllable fashion utilising an inducible promoter in combination with oral agents. Successful plasmid gene transfection in humanex vivomesenchymal tissue was demonstrated for the first time.
Auricular Point Acupressure for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Feasibility Study for 1-Week Treatment
Authors: Yeh Chao-Hsing , Chien Lung-Chang , Chiang Yi-Chien , Huang Li-Chun
Published: July 2012

Objectives. The objective of this one-group, repeated-measures design was to explore the acceptance of auricular point acupressure (APA) to reduce chronic low back pain (CLBP) and estimate minimum clinically important differences (MCIDs) for pain intensity change.Methods. Subjects received 7-day APA treatment. After appropriate acupoints were identified, vaccaria seeds were carefully taped onto each selected auricular point for 7-day. The Brief Pain Inventory Short Form (BPI) was used to collect outcome data.Results. A total of 74 subjects participated in the study. Ten subjects dropped out and the retention rate was 87%. Subjects reported a 46% reduction in BPI worst pain, and over 50% reduction in BPI average pain, overall pain severity and pain interference by the end of study, and 62.5% subjects also reported less pain medication use. The MCIDs for the subscale of BPI ranged from .70 to 1.86 points. The percentage improvement of MCIDs from baseline was between 14.5–24.9%.Discussion. APA appears to be highly acceptable to patients with CLBP. A sham group is needed in order to differentiate the true effects of APA from the possible psychological effects of more frequent visits by the auricular therapist and patients’ expectation of the APA treatment.
Model Reference Control for an Economic Growth Cycle Model
Authors: Zhao Pengfei , Liu Cai , Feng Xuan
Published: July 2012

A useful method in intelligent engineering, called model reference
control (MRC), is applied in an economic control problem. The authors review the
main framework of MRC and Goodwin growth cycle (GGC) model between two
countries and drive the employment rate to be approximate stable in a high level
by controlling the workers′ share in the national income automatically. It is very
helpful to constitute economic policies for a country or an economic union.
Numerical Solution of the Inverse Problem of Determining an Unknown Source Term in a Heat Equation
Authors: Li Xiuming , Qian Suping
Published: July 2012

This paper investigates the inverse problem of determining a heat source in the parabolic heat equation using the usual conditions. Firstly, the problem is reduced to an equivalent problem which is easy to handle using variational iteration method. Secondly, variational iteration method is used to solve the reduced problem. Using this method a rapid convergent sequence can be produced which tends to the exact solution of the problem. Furthermore, variational iteration method does not require the discretization of the problem. Two numerical examples are presented to illustrate the strength of the method.
Complex Decongestive Physiotherapy Treats Skin Changes like Hyperkeratosis Caused by Lymphedema
Authors: Kaba Hande , Bakar Yesim , Özdemir Özlem Çinar , Sertel Seda
Published: July 2012

Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive, and often debilitating condition. Primary lymphedema is a lymphatic malformation developing during the later stage of lymph angiogenesis. Secondary lymphedema is the result of obstruction or disruption of the lymphatic system, which can occur as a consequence of tumors, surgery, trauma, infection, inflammation, and radiation therapy. Here, we report a 64-year-old woman presenting with hyperkeratosis, a lymphedema due to metastatic uterus carcinoma. In this paper, we present the effects of complex decongestive physiotherapy on lymphedema and hyperkeratosis.
A Survey of Primary Care Offices: Triage of Poisoning Calls without a Poison Control Center
Authors: Austin Travis , Brooks Daniel E. , Welch Sharyn , LoVecchio Frank
Published: July 2012

Poison control centers hold great potential for saving health care resources particularly by preventing unnecessary medical utilization. We developed a four-question survey with three poisoning-related scenarios, based on common calls to our poison center, and one question regarding after-hours calls. We identified primary care provider offices in our poison center's region from an internet search. We contacted these offices via telephone and asked to speak to an office manager or someone responsible for triaging patient phone queries. Using a scripted form, trained investigators questioned 100 consecutive primary care provider offices on how they would handle these poisoning-related calls if there was no poison center to refer their patients to. Results of our survey suggest that 82.5% of poisoning-related calls to primary care offices would be referred to 911 or an emergency department if there was no poison center. These results further support the role that poison centers play in patient care and health care utilization.
A Multidimensional Scaling Analysis of Musical Sounds Based on Pseudo Phase Plane
Authors: Lima Miguel F. M. , Machado J. A. Tenreiro , Costa António C.
Published: July 2012

This paper studies musical opus from the point of view of three mathematical tools: entropy, pseudo phase plane (PPP), and multidimensional scaling (MDS). The experiments analyze ten sets of different musical styles. First, for each musical composition, the PPP is produced using the time series lags captured by the average mutual information. Second, to unravel hidden relationships between the musical styles the MDS technique is used. The MDS is calculated based on two alternative metrics obtained from the PPP, namely, the average mutual information and the fractal dimension. The results reveal significant differences in the musical styles, demonstrating the feasibility of the proposed strategy and motivating further developments towards a dynamical analysis of musical sounds.
Long-Term Temporal Variability of the Freshwater Discharge and Water Levels at Patos Lagoon, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Barros G. P. , Marques W. C.
Published: July 2012

The aim of this study is to investigate the importance of freshwater discharge as a physical forcing in Patos Lagoon at timescales longer than one year, as well as identify the temporal variability of the dominant processes in freshwater discharge and water levels along the Patos Lagoon. Due to its proximity to the mouth, the water level at the estuary is influenced by the remote effects associated with the adjacent ocean circulation and wave climatology, reducing the observed correlation. At the lagoonar region a high correlation is expected because interannual data is being used, reducing the influence of the wind. Cross wavelet technique is applied to examine the coherence and phase between interannual time-series (South Oscillation Index, freshwater discharge and water levels). The freshwater discharge of the main tributaries and water levels in Patos Lagoon are influenced by ENSO on interannual scales (cycles between 3.8 and 6 years). Therefore, El Niño events are associated with high mean values of freshwater discharge and water levels above the mean. On the other hand, La Niña events are associated with low mean values of freshwater discharge and water levels below the mean.
Synthesis of Thermochromic W‐Doped VO2 (M/R) Nanopowders by a Simple Solution‐Based Process
Authors: Chen Lihua , Huang Chunming , Xu Gang , Miao Lei , Shi Jifu , Zhou Jianhua , Xiao Xiudi
Published: July 2012

Thermochromic W‐doped VO2 nanopowders were prepared by a novel and simple solution‐based method and characterized by a variety of techniques. We mainly investigated the effect of tungsten dopant on the structural properties and phase transition of V1−xWxO2. The as‐obtained nanopowders with tungsten content of ≤2.5 at% can be readily indexed as monoclinic VO2 (M) while that of 3 at% assigned into the rutile VO2 (R). The valence state of tungsten in the nanopowders is +6. TEM and XRD results show that the substitution of W atom for V in VO2 results in a decrease of the d space of the (011) plane. The phase transition temperature is determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It is found, for the first time, that the reduction of transition temperature reaches to 17 K per 1 at% of W doping with the tungsten extents of ≤1 at%, but only 9.5 K per 1 at% with the tungsten extents of >1 at%. The reason of this arises from the difficulty of the formation of V3+‐W4+ and V3+‐W6+ pairs by the increasing of W ions doping in the V1−xWxO2 system.
Fixed Point Theory for Cyclic Generalized Weak ϕ‐Contraction on Partial Metric Spaces
Authors: Karapınar Erdal , Yuce I. Savas
Published: July 2012

A new fixed point theorem is obtained for the
class of cyclic weak ϕ‐contractions on partially metric spaces. It is proved that
a self‐mapping T on a complete partial metric space X has a fixed point if it
satisfies the cyclic weak ϕ‐contraction principle.
Secrecy and the Pathogenesis of Hypertension
Authors: Ettner Randi , Ettner Frederic , White Tonya
Published: July 2012

Literature supporting a relationship between emotions and regulation of blood pressure dates back to the early 1900s. Theoretical explanations of the pathophysiology of the correlation have centered on several possible trajectories, the most likely being cardiovascular reactivity to stress. Prospective studies have demonstrated that chronic stress and enduring traits such as defensiveness and anxiety, impacts the development of hypertension. An analysis of 195 genetic males seeking contrary hormones for treatment of gender dysphoria revealed a significantly increased prevalence of hypertension in this cohort. The authors attribute this increased prevalence to the known effects of emotional disclosure on health and conclude that the inhibition of emotional expressiveness is significant in the etiology and maintenance of essential hypertension in this population. As hypertension is associated with morbidity and mortality, the implications for the family medicine physician treating gender nonconforming individuals and other patients in the context of a general medical practice will be discussed.
On a Third-Order Three-Point Boundary Value Problem
Authors: Guezane-Lakoud A. , Hamidane N. , Khaldi R.
Published: July 2012

We consider a third-order three-point boundary value problem. We introduce a generalized polynomial growth condition to obtain the existence of a nontrivial solution by using Leray-Schauder nonlinear alternative, then we give an example to illustrate our results.
Bifurcations in a Generalization of the ZAD Technique: Application to a DC‐DC Buck Power Converter
Authors: Torres Ludwing , Olivar Gerard , Casanova Simeón
Published: July 2012

A variation of ZAD technique is proposed, which is to extend the range of zero averaging of the switching surface (in the classic ZAD it is taken in a sampling period), to a number K of sampling periods. This has led to a technique that has been named K‐ZAD. Assuming a specific value for K = 2, we have studied the 2‐ZAD technique. The latter has presented better results in terms of stability, regarding the original ZAD technique. These results can be demonstrated in different state space graphs and bifurcation diagrams, which have been calculated based on the analysis done about the behavior of this new strategy.
Inflammatory Pathways as Promising Targets to Increase Chemotherapy Response in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Zhu Zhaowei , Shen Zhoujun , Xu Chen
Published: July 2012

While more and more physicians are choosing chemotherapy for patients with bladder cancer, the current treatment is still far from satisfactory due to low response rate and severe side effects. Emerging evidence indicates that inflammatory microenvironment is involved in the pathogenesis of bladder cancer. Recent studies have also provided ample evidence that chemotherapy response is influenced by activation of major inflammatory mediators, including transcription factors, cytokines, chemokines, and COX-2. We reviewed all published literature addressing the roles of inflammatory microenvironment in bladder cancer and evaluating emerging evidence that inflammatory pathways represent potential therapeutic targets to enhance chemotherapy of bladder cancer.
The Optimum Dispersion of Carbon Nanotubes for Epoxy Nanocomposites: Evolution of the Particle Size Distribution by Ultrasonic Treatment
Authors: Frømyr Tomas Roll , Hansen Finn Knut , Olsen Torbjørn
Published: July 2012

The ultrasonic dispersion of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) suspensions was assessed by studying the differential sedimentation of the particles in an acid anhydride often employed as a curing agent for epoxy resins. The particle size distributions were characterized by the means of a disc centrifuge, and the effect of dispersion time, power density, and total energy input, for both bath and circulation probe ultrasonic dispersing equipment was investigated. The mass of freely suspended MWCNTs relative to agglomerated MWCNTs was estimated as a measure of the quality of the dispersions, and the results showed that this ratio followed a power law scaling with the energy dissipated in the sonication treatment. If the sonication power level was too high, sonochemical degradation of the curing agent could occur. The mean agglomerate MWCNT size distribution was estimated, and the fragmentation of the agglomerates was modeled by means of fragmentation theory. Indications of both rupture and erosion fragmentation processes for the MWCNT agglomerates were observed.
The Information Coding in the Time Structure of the Object of a Laser Pulse in an Optical Echo Processor
Authors: Nefediev L. A. , Sakhbieva A. R.
Published: July 2012

The encoding of information in time intervals of an echelon of laser pulses of an object pulse in the optical echo processor is considered. The measures of information are introduced to describe the transformation of classical information in quantum information. It is shown that in the description of information transformation into quantum information, the most appropriate measure is a measure of quantum information based on the algorithmic information theory.
The Chemical Interplay between Nitric Oxide and Mitochondrial CytochromecOxidase: Reactions, Effectors and Pathophysiology
Authors: Sarti Paolo , Forte Elena , Giuffrè Alessandro , Mastronicola Daniela , Magnifico Maria Chiara , Arese Marzia
Published: July 2012

Nitric oxide (NO) reacts with Complex I and cytochromecoxidase (CcOX, Complex IV), inducing detrimental or cytoprotective effects. Two alternative reaction pathways (PWs) have been described whereby NO reacts with CcOX, producing either a relatively labile nitrite-bound derivative (CcOX-NO2 −, PW1) or a more stable nitrosyl-derivative (CcOX-NO, PW2). The two derivatives are both inhibited, displaying different persistency and O2competitiveness. In the mitochondrion, during turnover with O2, one pathway prevails over the other one depending on NO, cytochromec2+and O2concentration. High cytochromec2+, and low O2proved to be crucial in favoring CcOX nitrosylation, whereas under-standardcell-culture conditions formation of the nitrite derivative prevails. All together, these findings suggest that NO can modulate physiologically the mitochondrial respiratory/OXPHOS efficiency, eventually being converted to nitrite by CcOX, without cell detrimental effects. It is worthy to point out that nitrite, far from being a simple oxidation byproduct, represents a source of NO particularly important in view of the NO cell homeostasis, the NO production depends on the NO synthases whose activity is controlled by different stimuli/effectors; relevant to its bioavailability, NO is also produced by recycling cell/body nitrite. Bioenergetic parameters, such as mitochondrialΔΨ, lactate, and ATP production, have been assayed in several cell lines, in the presence of endogenous or exogenous NO and the evidence collected suggests a crucial interplay between CcOX and NO with important energetic implications.
Are Dietary Cholesterol Intake and Serum Cholesterol Levels Related to Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Obese Children?
Authors: Papandreou Dimitrios , Karabouta Zaharoula , Rousso Israel
Published: July 2012

Background. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in children has been recognized as a major health burden. Serum lipids as well as dietary cholesterol (DC) intake may positively relate to development of NAFLD. The purpose of this study was to investigate anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary intake parameters of obese Greek children with and without NAFLD. Materials and Methods. Eighty-five obese children aged 8–15 (45 boys/40 girls) participated in the study. NAFLD was diagnosed by ultrasonography (US) in all subjects. Liver indexes were measured in all children. A 3-day dietary was recorded for all subjects. Results. 38 out of 85 children (44.7%) were found to have fatty liver. Obese children with increased levels of TC (95% CI: 1.721–3.191), low density lipoprotein (LDL) (95% CI: 1.829–3.058), and increased dietary cholesterol intakes (95% CI: 1.511–2.719) were 2.541, 2.612, and 2.041 times more likely to develop NAFLD compared with the children without NAFLD. Conclusion. The present study showed that TC, LDL, and DC were the strongest risk factors of development of NAFLD. Reducing body weight and dietary cholesterol intakes as well as decreasing serum TC and LDL levels are urgently necessary in order to prevent NAFLD and possible other health implications later in life.
The Use of Epoetin-αin Revision Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Delasotta Lawrence A. , Rangavajjula Ashwin V. , Frank Michael L. , Blair Jamie L. , Orozco Fabio R. , Ong Alvin C.
Published: July 2012

Introduction. To evaluate the efficacy of epoetin-αprior to revision total knee arthroplasty, we hypothesized that epoetin-αwill reduce blood transfusion.Methods. Eighty-one patients were compared in this retrospective review; twenty-eight patients received our dosing regimen. All patients were mildly anemic. Epoetin-αto control (1 : 2) patient matching occurred so that one of two attending surgeons, gender, BMI, complexity of surgery, ASA score, and age were similar between groups. The clinical triggers for blood transfusion during or after the procedure were determined based on peri- and postoperative hemoglobin levels, ASA score, and/or clinical symptoms consistent with anemia. Blood salvage was not used.Results. Blood transfusion and length of stay were lower in the study group. None of the patients who received epoetin-αunderwent transfusion. Hemoglobin increased from 11.97 to 13.8, preoperatively. Hemoglobin at day of surgery and time of discharge were higher. Gender, BMI, ASA score, total and hidden blood losses, calculated blood loss, preop PLT, PT, PTT, and INR were similar between groups. One Epogen patient had an uncomplicated DVT (3.6%).Conclusions. Epoetin-αmay have a role in the mildly anemic revision knee patient. It may also decrease patient length of stay allowing for earlier readiness to resume normal activities and/or meet short-term milestones. A randomized study to evaluate the direct and indirect costs of such a treatment methodology in the mildly anemic revision patient may be warranted.
The Difference Problem of Obtaining the Parameter of a Parabolic Equation
Authors: Ashyralyyev Charyyar , Demirdag Oznur
Published: July 2012

The boundary value problem of determining the parameter p of a parabolic equation υ′(t) + Aυ(t) = f(t) + p  (0 ≤ t ≤ 1),   υ(0) = φ,   υ(1) = ψ in an arbitrary Banach space E with the strongly positive operator A is considered. The first order of accuracy stable difference scheme for the approximate solution of this problem
is investigated. The well‐posedness of this difference scheme is established. Applying the abstract result, the stability and almost coercive stability estimates for the solution of difference schemes for the approximate solution of differential equations with parameter are obtained.
Nonlinear Effects of Electromagnetic TM Wave Propagation in Anisotropic Layer with Kerr Nonlinearity
Authors: Smirnov Yu G. , Valovik D. V.
Published: July 2012

The problem of electromagnetic TM wave propagation through a layer with Kerr nonlinearity is considered. The layer is located between two half-spaces with constant permittivities. This electromagnetic problem is reduced to the nonlinear boundary eigenvalue problem for ordinary differential equations. It is necessary to find eigenvalues of the problem (propagation constants of an electromagnetic wave). The dispersion equation (DE) for the eigenvalues is derived. The DE is applied to nonlinear metamaterial as well. Comparison with a linear case is also made. In the nonlinear problem there are new eigenvalues and new eigenwaves. Numerical results are presented.
Multiple Gastric Metastases from Ovarian Carcinoma Diagnosed by Endoscopic Ultrasound with Fine Needle Aspiration
Authors: Akce Mehmet , Bihlmeyer Sharon , Catanzaro Andrew
Published: July 2012

Metastasis to the stomach from nongastric tumors is a rare event. We present a case of ovarian cancer metastasis to the gastric wall that presented as multiple subepithelial gastric lesions. A 55-year-old female with known stage III b serous ovarian cancer was admitted to the hospital with melena and anemia. A 1.5 to 2 cm subepithelial mass with superficial overlying erosion in the antrum was seen in Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Initial endoscopic mucosal biopsies were normal. An Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) was performed, which revealed two subepithelial lesions with the typical appearance of a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) of both masses revealed papillary adenocarcinoma from an ovarian papillary serous adenocarcinoma. This is the first reported case of multiple gastric metastatic lesions from ovarian cancer diagnosed by EUS FNA.
The Impact of Macrophage Nucleotide Pools on HIV-1 Reverse Transcription, Viral Replication, and the Development of Novel Antiviral Agents
Authors: Gavegnano Christina , Kennedy Edward M. , Kim Baek , Schinazi Raymond F.
Published: July 2012

Macrophages are ubiquitous and represent a significant viral reservoir for HIV-1. Macrophages are nondividing, terminally differentiated cells, which have a unique cellular microenvironment relative to actively dividing T lymphocytes, all of which can impact HIV-1 infection/replication, design of inhibitors targeting viral replication in these cells, emergence of mutations within the HIV-1 genome, and disease progression. Scarce dNTPs drive rNTP incorporation into the proviral DNA in macrophages but not lymphocytes. Furthermore, the efficacy of a ribose-based inhibitor that potently inhibits HIV-1 replication in macrophages, has prompted a reconsideration of the previously accepted dogma that 2′-deoxy-based inhibitors demonstrate effective inhibition of HIV-1 replication. Additionally, higher levels of dUTP and rNTP incorporation in macrophages, and lack of repair mechanisms relative to lymphocytes, provide a further mechanistic understanding required to develop targeted inhibition of viral replication in macrophages. Together, the concentrations of dNTPs and rNTPs within macrophages comprise a distinctive cellular environment that directly impacts HIV-1 replication in macrophages and provides unique insight into novel therapeutic mechanisms that could be exploited to eliminate virus from these cells.
Probiotic Interference ofLactobacillus rhamnosusGR-1 andLactobacillus reuteriRC-14 with the Opportunistic Fungal PathogenCandida albicans
Authors: Köhler Gerwald A. , Assefa Senait , Reid Gregor
Published: July 2012

Candida albicansis the most importantCandidaspecies causing vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). VVC has significant medical and economical impact on women’s health and wellbeing. While current antifungal treatment is reasonably effective, supportive and preventive measures such as application of probiotics are required to reduce the incidence of VVC. We investigated the potential of the probioticsLactobacillus rhamnosusGR-1 andLactobacillus reuteriRC-14 towards control ofC. albicans.In vitroexperiments demonstrated that lactic acid at low pH plays a major role in suppressing fungal growth. Viability staining following cocultures with lactobacilli revealed thatC. albicanscells lost metabolic activity and eventually were killed. Transcriptome analyses showed increased expression of stress-related genes and lower expression of genes involved in fluconazole resistance, which might explain the increased eradication ofCandidain a previous clinical study on conjoint probiotic therapy. Our results provide insights on the impact of probiotics onC. albicanssurvival.
Radiotherapy for Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Khan Luluel , Barnes Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2012

Introduction.Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare form of non-melanoma skin cancer of neuroendocrine origin. Optimal management of patients is controversial and the role of radiotherapy is unclear.Purpose.The purpose of this study was to review the efficacy of RT in the treatment of both local and distant metastatic disease from MCC.Methods.A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE (1946—January Week 1 2012) and Embase (1980–2012 Week 2). Articles of interest analyze the efficacy of radiotherapy for treatment of metastatic MCC and did not exclude case reports.Results.All articles except one focusing on the role of radiotherapy were of retrospective origin or case series. Significant limitations applied in all studies due to limited sample sizes and the retrospective nature of these studies. Radiotherapy improves locoregional control in the adjuvant setting, and many series suggest an improvement in overall survival. In cases where surgery is not possible, definitive radiotherapy may be an as-efficacious alternative. The radiosensitive nature of MCC coupled with existing reports suggests that treatment via current protocols for other primary tumors is adequate.Conclusion.Further studies should be conducted prospectively to clarify the true role of radiotherapy in metastatic MCC.
A Time‐Domain Boundary Element Method for Wave Diffraction in a Two‐Layer Fluid
Authors: Gou Ying , Chen Xin-jia , Bin Teng
Published: July 2012

A time‐domain numerical model is established based on the higher‐order boundary element method (HOBEM) to simulate wave diffraction problem in a two‐layer fluid of finite depth. There are two possible incident wave modes (surface‐wave mode and internal‐wave mode) exist in the incident wave for a prescribed frequency in a two‐layer fluid. For surface‐wave mode, the hydrodynamic characters of fluid particles are similar to single‐layer fluid. For the internal‐wave mode, through the definition of a new function respected to velocity potentials of upper and lower fluid on the interface by using matching condition, a single set of linear equations is set up to compute the time histories of wave forces and wave profiles by using a fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta method. An artificial damping layer is adopted both on the free surface and interface to avoid the wave reflection. Examinations of the accuracy of this time‐domain algorithm are carried out for a truncated cylinder and a rectangular barge, and the results demonstrate the effectiveness of this method.
On Holomorphic Solution for Space- and Time-Fractional Telegraph Equations in Complex Domain
Authors: Ibrahim Rabha W.
Published: July 2012

We consider some classes of space- and time-fractional telegraph equations in complex domain in sense of the Riemann-Liouville fractional operators for time and the Srivastava-Owa fractional operators for space. The existence and uniqueness of holomorphic solution are established. We illustrate our theoretical result by examples.
Rhizome Yield of Sweet Flag (Acorus calamusL.) as Influenced by Planting Season, Harvest Time, and Spacing
Authors: Tiwari R. K. S. , Das K. , Pandey D. , Tiwari R. B. , Dubey Jola
Published: July 2012

A study was undertaken for two consecutive years to assess the possibility of optimizing rhizome yield ofAcorus calamusL. (sweet flag) by shifting the time of planting (i.e., growing in rainy and autumn seasons), maintaining different spacings, and harvesting in different months. Significantly higher yields of A. calamus were recorded when seeded in autumn (13150 kg ha−1) than rainy (6570 kg ha−1) season. Harvesting of crop after 12 months gave maximum rhizome yields of 16470 kg ha−1and 9370 kg ha−1respectively during autumn and rainy seasons. A similar trend was also noticed in various yield components (i.e., length, width and weight of rhizome). Closer planting (20×20 cm,30×20 cm) gave significantly higher rhizome yield (8620 kg ha−1, 8120 kg ha−1) than wider spacing40×40 cm (7030 kg ha−1). This study illustrated the possibility of optimizing rhizome yield ofA. calamusby manipulation in the time of planting and harvesting as well as maintaining proper plant spacing.
Proper Splitting for the Generalized Inverse AT,S(2) and Its Application on Banach Spaces
Authors: Liu Xiaoji , Huang Shaowu
Published: July 2012

A possible type of the operator splitting is studied. Using this operator splitting, we introduce some properties and representations of generalized inverses as well as iterative method for computing various solutions of the restricted linear operator system Ax = b, x ∈ T, where A ∈ ℒ(X, Y) and T is an arbitrary but fixed subspace of X.
Evaluation of Network Reliability for Computer Networks with Multiple Sources
Authors: Lin Yi-Kuei , Yeng Louis Cheng-Lu
Published: July 2012

Evaluating the reliability of a network with multiple sources to multiple sinks is a critical issue from the perspective of quality management. Due to the unrealistic definition of paths of network models in previous literature, existing models are not appropriate for real‐world computer networks such as the Taiwan Advanced Research and Education Network (TWAREN). This paper proposes a modified stochastic‐flow network model to evaluate the network reliability of a practical computer network with multiple sources where data is transmitted through several light paths (LPs). Network reliability is defined as being the probability of delivering a specified amount of data from the sources to the sink. It is taken as a performance index to measure the service level of TWAREN. This paper studies the network reliability of the international portion of TWAREN from two sources (Taipei and Hsinchu) to one sink (New York) that goes through a submarine and land surface cable between Taiwan and the United States.
Food Abundance Is the Main Determinant of High-Altitude Range Use in Snub-Nosed Monkeys
Authors: Grueter Cyril C. , Li Dayong , Ren Baoping , Xiang Zuofu , Li Ming
Published: July 2012

High-altitude dwelling primates have to optimize navigating a space that contains both a vertical and horizontal component. Black-and-white or Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus bieti) are extreme by primate standards in inhabiting relatively cold subalpine temperate forests at very high altitudes where large seasonal variation in climate and food availability is expected to profoundly modulate their ranging strategies so as to ensure a positive energy balance. A “semi-nomadic” group ofR. bietiwas followed for 20 months in the montane Samage Forest, Baimaxueshan Nature Reserve, Yunnan, PRC, which consisted of evergreen conifers, oaks, and deciduous broadleaf trees. The aim of this study was to disentangle the effects of climate and phenology on patterns of altitudinal range use. Altitude used by the group ranged from a maximum of 3550 m in July 2007 to a minimum of 3060 m in April 2006. The proportional use of lichen, the monkeys’ staple fallback food, in the diet explained more variation in monthly use of altitudes than climatic factors and availability of flush and fruit. The abundance of lichens at high altitudes, the lack of alternative foods in winter, and the need to satisfy the monkey's basal energetic requirements explain the effect of lichenivory on use of altitudes.
The Impact of Invisibility on the Health of Migrant Farmworkers in the Southeastern United States: A Case Study from Georgia
Authors: Bail Kari M. , Foster Jennifer , Dalmida Safiya George , Kelly Ursula , Howett Maeve , Ferranti Erin P. , Wold Judith
Published: July 2012

Migrant farmworkers represent one of the most marginalized and underserved populations in the United States. Acculturation theory cannot be easily mapped onto the transnational experience of migrant farmworkers, who navigate multiple physical and cultural spaces yearly, and who are not recognized by the state they constitute, “the Citizen’s Other” (Kerber, 2009). This paper utilizes narrative analysis of a case study to illustrate, through the relationship of the narrator to migrant farmworkers and years of participant observation by the coauthors, how isolation from family and community, as well as invisibility within institutions, affect the health and well-being of migrant farmworkers in southeastern Georgia. Invisibility of farmworkers within institutions, such as health care, the educational system, social services, domestic violence shelters, and churches contribute to illness among farmworkers. The dominant American discourse surrounding immigration policy addresses the strain immigrants put on the social systems, educational system, and the health care system. Nurses who work with farmworkers are well positioned to bring the subjective experience of farmworkers to light, especially for those engaged with socially just policies. Those who contribute to the abundant agricultural produce that feeds Americans deserve the recognition upon which social integration depends.
Comparison between Solar and Artificial Photocatalytic Decolorization of Textile Industrial Wastewater
Authors: Hussein Falah H.
Published: July 2012

The photocatalytic decolorization of industrial wastewater was investigated by using TiO2and ZnO photocatalysts. Heterogeneous photocatalytic processes applied under natural weathering conditions, in the presence of solar radiation show a promising degradation capability. The complete removal of color could be achieved in a relatively short time of about 20 minutes, when ZnO was used and about 100 minutes when TiO2was used under solar irradiation. However, in the presence of artificial UV-light, complete decolorization of textile industrial wastewater was obtained after less than one hour of irradiation when ZnO was used and in less than two hours, when TiO2was used at the same temperature. The results indicate that the degree of photocatalytic decolorization of textile industrial wastewater was obviously affected by different parameters. These parameters include catalyst mass, type of catalyst, type of reactor, type of dye, dye concentration, and temperature. The procedure used in this research can be used as an efficient technology for solar photocatalytic decolorization of the colored wastewater discharged from the textile industry under the climatic conditions of most countries.
Comparison of the Tendon Damage Caused by Four Different Anchor Systems Used in Transtendon Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Zhang Qing-Song , Liu Sen , Zhang Qiuyang , Xue Yun , Ge Dongxia , O'Brien Michael J. , Savoie Felix H. , You Zongbing
Published: July 2012

Objectives. The objective of this study was to compare the damage to the rotator cuff tendons caused by four different anchor systems.Methods. 20 cadaveric human shoulder joints were used for transtendon insertion of four anchor systems. The Healix Peek, Fastin RC, Bio-Corkscrew Suture, and Healix Transtend anchors were inserted through the tendons using standard transtendon procedures. The areas of tendon damage were measured.Results. The areas of tendon damage (mean ± standard deviation,n=7) were 29.1 ± 4.3 mm2for the Healix Peek anchor, 20.4 ± 2.3 mm2for the Fastin RC anchor, 23.4 ± 1.2 mm2for the Bio-Corkscrew Suture anchor, 13.7 ± 3.2 mm2for the Healix Transtend anchor inserted directly, and 9.1±2.1 mm2for the Healix Transtend anchor inserted through the Percannula system (P<0.001orP<0.001, compared to other anchors).Conclusions. In a cadaver transtendon rotator cuff repair model, smaller anchors caused less damage to the tendon tissues. The Healix Transtend implant system caused the least damage to the tendon tissues. Our findings suggest that smaller anchors should be considered when performing transtendon procedures to repair partial rotator cuff tears.
On the Development of High Power DC-DC Step-Down Converter with Energy Recovery Snubber
Authors: Singh Alok , Borage Mangesh B. , Tiwari Sunil R. , Thakurta A. C.
Published: July 2012

The effect of switching losses on the efficiency of a switch mode power converter and methods adopted for its improvement using an energy recovery lossless snubber has been presented. A comparative analysis of various types of soft switching techniques along with effects of dissipative and nondissipative snubbers on efficiency of the converter has been carried out before zeroing in on the selected scheme. The selected snubber serves the dual function of a turn-on and turn-off snubber and thereby reducing the switching losses both during turn-on and turn-off transients, resulting in improved efficiency of the converter. A detailed design procedure of the snubber for high-power applications taking into account various effects such as diode reverse recovery, diode voltage stress, and minimum and maximum duty cycle limits, has been presented in this paper. Importance of practical aspects in layout to minimize wiring inductance is also highlighted. A high-power prototype of buck converter has been developed to experimentally validate the theoretical design and analytical observations.
Analysis of Stock Market Indices with Multidimensional Scaling and Wavelets
Authors: Tenreiro Machado J. , Duarte Fernando B. , Duarte Gonçalo Monteiro
Published: July 2012

Stock market indices (SMIs) are important measures of financial and economical performance. Considerable research
efforts during the last years demonstrated that these signals have a chaotic nature and require sophisticated mathematical
tools for analyzing their characteristics. Classical methods, such as the Fourier transform, reveal considerable
limitations in discriminating different periods of time. This paper studies the dynamics of SMI by combining the
wavelet transform and the multidimensional scaling (MDS). Six continuous wavelets are tested for analyzing the
information content of the stock signals. In a first phase, the real Shannon wavelet is adopted for performing the evaluation
of the SMI dynamics, while their comparison is visualized by means of the MDS. In a second phase, the other
wavelets are also tested, and the corresponding MDS plots are analyzed.
Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy with Melphalan: A Summary of Clinical and Pharmacological Data in 34 Patients
Authors: Bijelic Lana , Sugarbaker Paul H. , Stuart O. Anthony
Published: July 2012

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a treatment option for peritoneal metastases. The optimal agents for HIPEC have not been established. Melphalan is a drug with broad activity and a favorable profile for intraperitoneal application. The purpose of this study is to review our experience using melphalan for HIPEC. Pharmacologic data was obtained. Thirty four patients who underwent CRS for peritoneal metastases received melphalan for HIPEC between 2003 and 2011. The first 10 patients received 70 mg/m2; subsequent 24 received 60 or 70 mg/m2. The mean PCI was21±7. Twenty-eight patients (83%) had a CC score of 1 or 2. The mean length of stay was18±2days. Nine patients (26%) had a grade 3 and 6 (17%) had grade 4 morbidity. There were no postoperative deaths. The pharmacologic analysis of plasma to peritoneal fluid levels of melphalan showed an AUC ratio of 33 while the tumor nodules to peritoneal ratio was 8. Melphalan is an acceptable agent for use in HIPEC. The morbidity of intraperitoneal melphalan at the dose of 60–70 mg/m2appears acceptable. Further studies comparing the effectiveness of melphalan and other HIPEC agents are needed.
Nanoporous Silicon as Drug Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapies
Authors: Haidary Sazan M. , Córcoles Emma P. , Ali Nihad K.
Published: July 2012

Porous silicon nanoparticles have been established as excellent candidates for medical applications as drug delivery devices, due to their excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and high surface area. The simple fabrication method by electrochemical anodization of silicon and its photoluminescent properties are some of the merits that have contributed to the increasing interest given to porous silicon. This paper presents the methods of fabrication, which can be customized to control the pore size, various chemical treatments used for the modification of silicon surfaces, and the characterization and pore morphology of silicon structures. Different approaches used for drug loading and the variety of coatings used for the controlled released are revised. The monitoring of the toxicity of silicon degradation products and the in vivo release of a drug in a specific site are described taking into account its significance on medical applications, specifically on cancer therapy.
Antiatherosclerotic Effect ofCanarium odontophyllumMiq. Fruit Parts in Rabbits Fed High Cholesterol Diet
Authors: Shakirin Faridah Hanim , Azlan Azrina , Ismail Amin , Amom Zulkhairi , Yuon Lau Cheng
Published: July 2012

The effect ofC. odontophyllum(CO) fruit parts was investigated in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. Forty-nine rabbits, which were randomly divided into seven groups of seven animals (n=7), received a diet containing different parts of CO fruit parts for 8 weeks. The groups were as follows: (1) normal diet: NC group and (2) hypercholesterolemic diet: PC, HS (10 mg/kg/day simvastatin), HPO (20 g kg−1oil extracted from the pulp of CO), HKO (20 g kg−1oil extracted from the kernel of CO), HF (50 g kg−1fullfat pulp of CO), and HD (50 g kg−1defatted pulp of CO). Among these groups, rabbits receiving defatted pulp of CO showed the greatest cholesterol lowering effect as it had reduced plasma LDL-C, TC, and thiobarbiturate reactive substance (TBARS) levels as well as atherosclerotic plaques. The presence of high dietary fiber and antioxidants activity are potential factors contributing to the cholesterol lowering effect. Consequently, these results indicate the potential use of CO defatted pulp as a cholesterol lowering and antioxidant agent.
Psychosocial Factors of Different Health Behaviour Patterns in Adolescents: Association with Overweight and Weight Control Behaviours
Authors: Veloso Susana M. , Matos Margarida G. , Carvalho Marina , Diniz José A.
Published: July 2012

Physical activity, nutrition, and sedentary behaviour combine to influence the risk of overweight among adolescents. This paper aims to identify psychosocial factors of different health behaviour patterns in adolescents and its association with overweight and weight control behaviours. The 3069 adolescents of both genders (average of 14.8 years old) from the 2010 Portuguese survey of Health Behaviour School-Aged Children (HBSC) answered the 2010 HBSC self-reported questionnaire. It used the cluster k-means (nonhierarchy method), qui-square, one-way ANOVA, and logistic regression. Three clusters with different behavioural patterns (physical activity, sedentary, and eating) composed the results obtained. The sedentary group (34%) had lower self-regulation, body satisfaction, health and wellness, family and classmates relationships, communication with the father than the other two groups. The active gamers (25%) had a smaller BMI but used more unhealthy weight control strategies than the other two groups. The healthy group (41%) was more motivated and more satisfied with school but was not different than the active gamers in most psychosocial variables. Differences were found between clusters for weight control behaviours and psychosocial variables. Different strategies for different patterns were necessary in order to promote obesity prevention and, simultaneously, target healthy lifestyle and wellbeing in adolescents.