bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Workload-aware live storage migration for clouds
Authors: Zheng Jie , Ng Tze Sing Eugene , Sripanidkulchai Kunwadee
Published: July 2011

The emerging open cloud computing model will provide users with great freedom to dynamically migrate virtualized computing services to, from, and between clouds over the wide-area. While this freedom leads to many potential benefits, the running services must be minimally disrupted by the migration. Unfortunately, current solutions for wide-area migration incur too much disruption as they will significantly slow down storage I/O operations during migration. The resulting increase in service latency could be very costly to a business. This paper presents a novel storage migration scheduling algorithm that can greatly improve storage I/O performance during wide-area migration. Our algorithm is unique in that it considers individual virtual machine's storage I/O workload such as temporal locality, spatial locality and popularity characteristics to compute an efficient data transfer schedule. Using a fully implemented system on KVM and a trace-driven framework, we show that our algorithm provides large performance benefits across a wide range of popular virtual machine workloads.
Patch auditing in infrastructure as a service clouds
Authors: Litty Lionel , Lie David
Published: July 2011

A basic requirement of a secure computer system is that it be up to date with regard to software security patches. Unfortunately, Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) clouds make this difficult. They leverage virtualization, which provides functionality that causes traditional security patch update systems to fail. In addition, the diversity of operating systems and the distributed nature of administration in the cloud compound the problem of identifying unpatched machines.

In this work, we propose P2, a hypervisor-based patch audit solution. P2 audits VMs and detects the execution of unpatched binary and non-binary files in an accurate, continuous and OSagnostic manner. Two key innovations make P2 possible. First, P2 uses efficient information flow tracking to identify the use of unpatched non-binary files in a vulnerable way.We performed a patch survey and discover that 64% of files modified by security updates do not contain binary code, making the audit of non-binary files crucial. Second, P2 implements a novel algorithm that identifies binaries in mid-execution to allow handling of VMs resumed from a checkpoint or migrated into the cloud. We have implemented a prototype of P2 and and our experiments show that it accurately reports the execution of unpatched code while imposing performance overhead of 4%.
SymCall
Authors: Lange John R. , Dinda Peter
Published: July 2011

Symbiotic virtualization is a new approach to system virtualization in which a guest OS targets the native hardware interface as in full system virtualization, but also optionally exposes a software interface that can be used by a VMM, if present, to increase performance and functionality. Neither the VMM nor the OS needs to support the symbiotic virtualization interface to function together, but if both do, both benefit. We describe the design and implementation of the SymCall symbiotic virtualization interface in our publicly available Palacios VMM for modern x86 machines. SymCall makes it possible for Palacios to make clean synchronous upcalls into a symbiotic guest, much like system calls. One use of symcalls is to allow synchronous collection of semantically rich guest data during exit handling in order to enable new VMM features. We describe the implementation of SwapBypass, a VMM service based on SymCall that reconsiders swap decisions made by a symbiotic Linux guest. Finally, we present a detailed performance evaluation of both SwapBypass and SymCall.
Overdriver
Authors: Williams Dan , Jamjoom Hani , Liu Yew-Huey , Weatherspoon Hakim
Published: July 2011

With the intense competition between cloud providers, oversubscription is increasingly important to maintain profitability. Oversubscribing physical resources is not without consequences: it increases the likelihood of overload. Memory overload is particularly damaging. Contrary to traditional views, we analyze current data center logs and realistic Web workloads to show that overload is largely transient: up to 88.1% of overloads last for less than 2 minutes. Regarding overload as a continuum that includes both transient and sustained overloads of various durations points us to consider mitigation approaches also as a continuum, complete with tradeoffs with respect to application performance and data center overhead. In particular, heavyweight techniques, like VM migration, are better suited to sustained overloads, whereas lightweight approaches, like network memory, are better suited to transient overloads. We present Overdriver, a system that adaptively takes advantage of these tradeoffs, mitigating all overloads within 8% of well-provisioned performance. Furthermore, under reasonable oversubscription ratios, where transient overload constitutes the vast majority of overloads, Overdriver requires 15% of the excess space and generates a factor of four less network traffic than a migration-only approach.
Selective hardware/software memory virtualization
Authors: Wang Xiaolin , Zang Jiarui , Wang Zhenlin , Luo Yingwei , Li Xiaoming
Published: July 2011

As virtualization becomes a key technique for supporting cloud computing, much effort has been made to reduce virtualization overhead, so a virtualized system can match its native performance. One major overhead is due to memory or page table virtualization. Conventional virtual machines rely on a shadow mechanism to manage page tables, where a shadow page table maintained by the VMM (Virtual Machine Monitor) maps virtual addresses to machine addresses while a guest maintains its own virtual to physical page table. This shadow mechanism will result in expensive VM exits whenever there is a page fault that requires synchronization between the two page tables. To avoid this cost, both Intel and AMD provide hardware assists, EPT (extended page table) and NPT (nested page table), to facilitate address translation. With the hardware assists, the MMU (Memory Management Unit) maintains an ordinary guest page table that translates virtual addresses to guest physical addresses. In addition, the extended page table as provided by EPT translates from guest physical addresses to host physical or machine addresses. NPT works in a similar style. With EPT or NPT, a guest page fault can be handled by the guest itself without triggering VM exits. However, the hardware assists do have their disadvantage compared to the conventional shadow mechanism -- the page walk yields more memory accesses and thus longer latency. Our experimental results show that neither hardware-assisted paging (HAP) nor shadow paging (SP) can be a definite winner. Despite the fact that in over half of the cases, there is no noticeable gap between the two mechanisms, an up to 34% performance gap exists for a few benchmarks. We propose a dynamic switching mechanism that monitors TLB misses and guest page faults on the fly, and dynam-ically switches between the two paging modes. Our experiments show that this new mechanism can match and, sometimes, even beat the better performance of HAP and SP.
Changes in HIF-1α protein, pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphorylation, and activity with exercise in acute and chronic hypoxia
Authors: Le Moine Christophe M. R. , Morash Andrea J. , McClelland Grant B.
Published: July 2011

Exercise under acute hypoxia elicits a large increase in blood lactate concentration ([La]b) compared with normoxic exercise. However, several studies in humans show that with the transition to chronic hypoxia, exercise [La]breturns to normoxic levels. Although extensively examined over the last decades, the muscle-specific mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon remain unknown. To assess the changes in skeletal muscle associated with a transition from acute to chronic hypoxia, CD-1 mice were exposed for 24 h (24H), 1 wk (1WH), or 4 wk (4WH) to hypobaric hypoxia (equivalent to 4,300 m), exercised under 12% O2, and compared with normoxic mice (N) at 21% O2. Since the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) plays a major role in the metabolic fate of pyruvate (oxidation vs. lactate production), we assessed the changes in its activity and regulation. Here we report that when run under hypoxia, 24H mice exhibited the highest blood and intramuscular lactate of all groups, while the 1WH group approached N group values. Concomitantly, the 24H group exhibited the lowest PDH activity, associated with a higher phosphorylation (inactive) state of the Ser232residue of PDH, a site specific to PDH kinase-1 (PDK1). Furthermore, protein levels of PDK1 and its regulator, the hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), were both elevated in the 24H group compared with N and 1WH groups. Overall, our results point to a novel mechanism in muscle where the HIF-1α pathway is desensitized in the transition from acute to chronic hypoxia, leading to a reestablishment of PDH activity and a reduction in lactate production by the exercising muscles.
Similar qualitative and quantitative changes of mitochondrial respiration following strength and endurance training in normoxia and hypoxia in sedentary humans
Authors: Pesta Dominik , Hoppel Florian , Macek Christian , Messner Hubert , Faulhaber Martin , Kobel Conrad , Parson Walther , Burtscher Martin , Schocke Michael , Gnaiger Erich
Published: July 2011

Endurance and strength training are established as distinct exercise modalities, increasing either mitochondrial density or myofibrillar units. Recent research, however, suggests that mitochondrial biogenesis is stimulated by both training modalities. To test the training “specificity” hypothesis, mitochondrial respiration was studied in permeabilized muscle fibers from 25 sedentary adults after endurance (ET) or strength training (ST) in normoxia or hypoxia [fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) = 21% or 13.5%]. Biopsies were taken from the musculus vastus lateralis, and cycle-ergometric incremental maximum oxygen uptake (V̇o2max) exercise tests were performed under normoxia, before and after the 10-wk training program. The main finding was a significant increase ( P < 0.05) of fatty acid oxidation capacity per muscle mass, after endurance and strength training under normoxia [2.6- and 2.4-fold for endurance training normoxia group (ETN) and strength training normoxia group (STN); n = 8 and 3] and hypoxia [2.0-fold for the endurance training hypoxia group (ETH) and strength training hypoxia group (STH); n = 7 and 7], and higher coupling control of oxidative phosphorylation. The enhanced lipid oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) capacity was mainly (87%) due to qualitative mitochondrial changes increasing the relative capacity for fatty acid oxidation ( P < 0.01). Mitochondrial tissue-density contributed to a smaller extent (13%), reflected by the gain in muscle mass-specific respiratory capacity with a physiological substrate cocktail (glutamate, malate, succinate, and octanoylcarnitine). No significant increase was observed in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content. Physiological OXPHOS capacity increased significantly in ETN( P < 0.01), with the same trend in ETHand STH( P < 0.1). The limitation of flux by the phosphorylation system was diminished after training. Importantly, key mitochondrial adaptations were similar after endurance and strength training, regardless of normoxic or hypoxic exercise. The transition from a sedentary to an active lifestyle induced muscular changes of mitochondrial quality representative of mitochondrial health.
In vivo and in vitro insulin and fasting control of the transmembrane fatty acid transport proteins in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Sánchez-Gurmaches Joan , Østbye Tone-Kari , Navarro Isabel , Torgersen Jacob , Hevrøy Ernst Morten , Ruyter Bente , Torstensen Bente E.
Published: July 2011

We have examined the nutritional and insulin regulation of the mRNA expression of transmembrane fatty acid (FA) transporters [FA transport protein-1 (FATP1) and CD36] together with the lipoprotein lipase (LPL), the cytosolic FA carrier FA binding protein (FABP3), and mitochondrial FA-CoA and -carnitine palmitoyl transferase carriers (CPT)1 and -2 in Atlantic salmon tissues and myocyte cell culture. Two weeks of fasting diminished FATP1, CD36, and LPL in adipose tissue, suggesting a reduction in FA uptake, while FABP3 increased in liver, probably enhancing the transport of FA to the mitochondria. Insulin injection decreased FATP1 and CD36 in white and red muscles, while both transporters were upregulated in the adipose tissue in agreement with the role of insulin-inhibiting muscle FA oxidation and stimulating adipose fat stores. Serum deprivation of 48 h in Atlantic salmon myotubes increased FATP1, FABP3, and CPT-2, while CPT-1 was diminished. In myotubes, insulin induced FATP1 expression but decreased CD36, FABP3, and LPL, suggesting that FATP1 could be more involved in the insulin-stimulated FA uptake. Insulin increased the FA uptake in myotubes mediated, at least in part, through the relocation of FATP1 protein to the plasma membrane. Overall, Atlantic salmon FA transporters are regulated by fasting and insulin on in vivo and in vitro models.
Brain activation following peripheral administration of the GLP-1 receptor agonist exendin-4
Authors: Baraboi Elena-Dana , St-Pierre David H. , Shooner Julie , Timofeeva Elena , Richard Denis
Published: July 2011

The aim of our study was to investigate the anorectic and brain stimulatory effects of various doses of exendin-4 (Ex-4) and to investigate the role of the vagus nerve in Ex-4-induced brain activation. A dose-related increase in c- fos mRNA expression was observed following Ex-4 administration (0.155–15.5 μg/kg). Doses of Ex-4 that caused anorexia without aversive effects (0.155, 0.775 μg/kg) induced c- fos expression in the hypothalamic arcuate and paraventricular (PVH; parvocellular) nuclei as well as in the limbic and brainstem structures. Doses of Ex-4 that caused aversion (1.55, 15.5 μg/kg) stimulated the same regions (in a more intense way) and additionally activated the magnocellular hypothalamic structures (supraoptic nucleus and PVH magnocellular). The brain c- fos pattern induced by Ex-4 showed both similarities and differences with that induced by refeeding. Subdiaphragmatic vagotomy significantly blunted the stimulation of c- fos mRNA expression induced by Ex-4 in the nodose ganglion, the medial part of nucleus of the solitary tract, and the parvocellular division of the PVH. Pretreatment with Ex-9-39 (330 μg/kg ip) impaired the neuronal activation evoked by Ex-4 in all brain regions and in the nodose ganglion. Effects of Ex-4 on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity were not altered by vagotomy. Results of this study demonstrate and relate the anorectic and brain stimulatory effects of aversive and nonaversive doses of Ex-4 and indicate that the activation of specific central regions induced by the peripheral administration of Ex-4 is, at least in part, dependent on the integrity of the vagus nerve.
Generalization of implicit and explicit adjustments to visuomotor rotations across the workspace in younger and older adults
Authors: Heuer Herbert , Hegele Mathias
Published: July 2011

We examined the generalization of adjustment to a visuomotor rotation across the workspace in younger and older adults. Participants practiced in the right workspace with a single target direction and were tested in both the right and left workspace with eight different target directions. A set of tests served to identify implicit and explicit components of adjustment. Explicit, but not implicit, components were stronger at younger than at older adult age. Explicit components generalized across all target directions, whereas implicit components were restricted to the target direction during practice and clockwise adjacent ones. Generalization to the contralateral workspace was found only for explicit components of adjustment. These findings expand the list of functional differences between implicit and explicit components of adjustment to visuomotor transformations.
Static magnetic field modulates rhythmic activities of a cluster of large local interneurons in Drosophila antennal lobe
Authors: Yang Ying , Yan Ying , Zou Xiaolu , Zhang Chuchu , Zhang Heng , Xu Ye , Wang Xutian , Janos Palhalmi , Yang Zhiyun , Gu Huaiyu
Published: July 2011

With the development of superconducting magnets, the chances of exposure to intense static magnetic fields (SMFs) have increased. Therefore, safety concerns related to magnetic field exposure need to be studied, especially the effects of magnetic field exposure on the central nervous system. Only a limited number of studies prove a direct connection between magnetic fields and electrophysiological signal processing. Here we described a cluster of large local interneurons (LNs) located laterally to each antennal lobe of Drosophila melanogaster, which exhibit extensive arborizations throughout the whole antennal lobe. Dual recordings showed that these large LNs demonstrated rhythmic spontaneous activities that correlated with other LNs and projection neurons (PNs) in the olfactory circuit. The results suggest that 3.0-T SMF can interfere with the properties of the action potential, rhythmic spontaneous activities of large LNs, and correlated activity in pairs of ipsilateral large LN/LN in the olfactory circuit. This indicates that Drosophila can be an ideal intact neural circuit model and that the activities of the olfactory circuit can be used to evaluate the effects of magnetic field stimulations.
Coding movement direction by burst firing in electrosensory neurons
Authors: Khosravi-Hashemi Navid , Fortune Eric S. , Chacron Maurice J.
Published: July 2011

Directional selectivity, in which neurons respond strongly to an object moving in a given direction (“preferred”) but respond weakly or not at all to an object moving in the opposite direction (“null”), is a critical computation achieved in brain circuits. Previous measures of direction selectivity have compared the numbers of action potentials elicited by each direction of movement, but most sensory neurons display patterning, such as bursting, in their spike trains. To examine the contribution of patterned responses to direction selectivity, we recorded from midbrain neurons in weakly electric fish and found that most neurons responded with a combination of both bursts and isolated spikes to moving object stimuli. In these neurons, we separated bursts and isolated spikes using an interspike interval (ISI) threshold. The directional bias of bursts was significantly higher than that of either the full spike train or the isolated spike train. To examine the encoding and decoding of bursts, we built biologically plausible models that examine 1) the upstream mechanisms that generate these spiking patterns and 2) downstream decoders of bursts. Our model of upstream mechanisms uses an interaction between afferent input and subthreshold calcium channels to give rise to burst firing that occurs preferentially for one direction of movement. We tested this model in vivo by application of calcium antagonists, which reduced burst firing and eliminated the differences in direction selectivity between bursts, isolated spikes, and the full spike train. Our model of downstream decoders used strong synaptic facilitation to achieve qualitatively similar results to those obtained using the ISI threshold criterion. This model shows that direction selective information carried by bursts can be decoded by downstream neurons using biophysically plausible mechanisms.
Treatment of Locally Advanced Melanoma by Isolated Limb Infusion with Cytotoxic Drugs
Authors: Kroon Hidde M.
Published: July 2011

Since its introduction in the late 1950s, isolated limb perfusion (ILP) has been the preferred treatment option for locally advanced melanoma and sarcoma confined to a limb. This treatment results in high response rates with a satisfying duration of response in both tumor types. A drawback of ILP, however, is the invasive and complex character of the procedure. Isolated limb infusion (ILI) has been designed in the early 1990s as a minimally invasive alternative to ILP. Results of this simple procedure, reported by various centers around the world, show comparable response rates for melanoma and sarcoma when compared to ILP. Due to its minimally invasive character, ILI may replace ILP in the future as the preferred treatment for these locally advanced limb tumors.
Relationship between Temperament, Depression, Anxiety, and Hopelessness in Adolescents: A Structural Equation Model
Authors: Iliceto Paolo , Pompili Maurizio , Lester David , Gonda Xenia , Niolu Cinzia , Girardi Nicoletta , Rihmer Zoltán , Candilera Gabriella , Girardi Paolo
Published: July 2011

The purpose of this study was to test the validity of affective temperaments for predicting psychiatric morbidity and suicide risk, using a two-factor model to explain the relationships between temperament, anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. We investigated 210 high school students, 103 males and 107 females, 18-19 years old, who were administered self-report questionnaires to assess temperament (TEMPS-A), depression (BDI-II), anxiety (STAI) and hopelessness (BHS). The final structural model had a good fit with the data, with two factors significantly correlated, the first labeled unstable cyclothymic temperament including Dysthymic/Cyclothymic/Anxious temperament, Irritable temperament and Depression, and the second labeled Demoralization including Anxiety (State/Trait) and Hopelessness. Depression, anxiety and hopelessness are in a complex relationship partly mediated by temperament.
Zygomycosis in Two Hematologic Cases
Authors: García-Romero M. T. , García-Méndez J. , Arenas R. , Ferrari-Carballo T. , Chanona-Vilchis J. , Cervera-Ceballos E.
Published: July 2011

Zygomycosis are invasive mould infections, rarely diagnosed in hematologic patients. Most of the cases published are in patients with prolonged neutropenia, along with other risk factors such as the use of prior broad-spectrum antibiotics (including new antifungal agents, such as voriconazole), diabetes mellitus (with or without ketoacidosis), malnutrition, iron overload (with or without the use of deferoxamine). These infections have poor prognosis due to the involvement of vital anatomic structures and late diagnosis. Until recent years, the treatment was based on high doses of amphotericin B plus surgical debridement. Here we present two patients with hematologic diseases (one with leukemia, the second with aplastic anemia) with an impaired immune system and the diagnosis of zygomycosis. The survival of one of them was mainly due to early diagnosis and surgical debridement; unfortunately the second was misdiagnosed as an extensive ecchymosis due to thrombocytopenia and died with CNS involvement.
Development of a Method for Enhanced Fan Representation in Gas Turbine Modeling
Authors: Doulgeris Georgios , Khaleghi Hossein , Kalfas Anestis , Pilidis Pericles
Published: July 2011

A challenge in civil aviation future propulsion systems is expected to be the integration with the airframe, coming as a result of increasing bypass ratio or above wing installations for noise mitigation. The resulting highly distorted inlet flows to the engine make a clear demand for advanced gas turbine performance prediction models. Since the dawn of jet engine, several models have been proposed, and the present work comes to add a model that combines two well-established compressor performance methods in order to create a quasi-three-dimensional representation of the fan of a modern turbofan. A streamline curvature model is coupled to a parallel compressor method, covering radial and circumferential directions, respectively. Model testing has shown a close agreement to experimental data, making it a good candidate for assessing the loss of surge margin on a high bypass ratio turbofan, semiembedded on the upper surface of a broad wing airframe.
Isolation and Identification of Acholeplasma sp. from the Mud Crab, Scylla serrata
Authors: Chen Ji-Gang , Lou Dan , Yang Ji-Fang
Published: July 2011

For the first time, a mollicute‐like organism (MLO) was cultured from moribund mud crabs (Scylla serrata) during an outbreak of clearwater disease in Zhejiang Province, China. The MLO displayed a fried‐egg colony morphology in culture, did not possess a cell wall, and was not retained by 0.45 μm and 0.2 μm filters. It was able to ferment glucose, sucrose, lactose, and maltose, but it did not utilize arginine and urea. The MLO grew in the absence of bovine serum and was not susceptible to digitonin. Sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene revealed that this MLO had 99% identity with Acholeplasma laidlawii PG‐8A, which indicates that the organism isolated from mud crabs is a member of the genus Acholeplasma.
On Value Distribution of Difference Polynomials of Meromorphic Functions
Authors: Chen Zong-Xuan
Published: July 2011

We study the value distribution of the difference counterpart Δf(z) − af(z) n of f′(z) − af(z) n and obtain an almost direct difference analogue of results of Hayman.
Dynamic Approaches for Multichoice Solutions
Authors: Liao Yu-Hsien
Published: July 2011

Based on alternative reduced games, several dynamic approaches are proposed to show how the three extended Shapley values can be reached dynamically from arbitrary efficient payoff vectors on multichoice games.
Self-Expandable Metal Stenting of Refractory Upper Gut Corrosive Strictures: A New Role for Endoscopy?
Authors: Manta Raffaele , Conigliaro Rita , Bertani Helga , Manno Mauro , Soliman Ahmed , Fedeli Paolo , Bassotti Gabrio
Published: July 2011

Caustic strictures of the gastrointestinal tract are often difficult to treat, since relapses are frequent after medical or endoscopic treatment. Thus, novel approaches are needed. We report here our experience with self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) as a new endoscopic approach in three patients with corrosive strictures of the upper gastrointestinal tract.
The Loss of HIF1αLeads to Increased Susceptibility to Cadmium-Chloride-Induced Toxicity in Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts
Authors: Vengellur Ajith , Grier Elizabeth , LaPres John J.
Published: July 2011

Wild-type and HIF1α −/− MEF cells were used to determine the role of HIF1α in cadmium-induced toxicity. Cadmium treatment did not affect HIF1-mediated transcription but led to caspase activation and apoptotic cell death in wild-type and HIF1α −/− cells. Cadmium-induced cell death, however, was significantly higher in HIF1α −/− cells as compared to their wild-type counterparts. Increased cell death in the HIF1α −/− cells was correlated with lower metallothionein protein, elevated levels of reactive oxygen species, and decreased superoxide dismutase enzyme activity. The total and oxidized glutathione levels, and, correspondingly, lipid peroxidation levels were elevated in the null cells compared to wild-type cells, indicating increased antioxidant demand and greater oxidative stress. Overall, the results suggest that basal levels of HIF1α play a protective role against cadmium-induced cytotoxicity in mouse embryonic fibroblasts by maintaining metallothionein and antioxidant activity levels.
Ultrasonochemical-Assisted Synthesis of CuO Nanorods with High Hydrogen Storage Ability
Authors: Xiao Gang , Gao Peng , Wang Longqiang , Chen Yujin , Wang Ying , Zhang Guoli
Published: July 2011

Uniform CuO nanorods with different size have been synthesized in a water-alcohol solution through a fast and facile ultrasound irradiation assistant route. Especially, the as-prepared CuO nanorods have shown a strong size-induced enhancement of electrochemical hydrogen storage performance and exhibit a notable hydrogen storage capacity and big BET surface area. These results further implied that the as-prepared CuO nanorods could be a promising candidate for electrochemical hydrogen storage applications. The observation of the comparison experiments with different concentrations of NaOH, ethanol, CTAB, and HTMA while keeping other synthetic parameters unchanged leads to the morphology and size change of CuO products.
Global Convergence of a Nonlinear Conjugate Gradient Method
Authors: Jin-kui Liu , Li-min Zou , Xiao-qian Song
Published: July 2011

A modified PRP nonlinear conjugate gradient method to solve unconstrained optimization problems is proposed. The important property of the proposed method is that the sufficient descent property is guaranteed independent of any line search. By the use of the Wolfe line search, the global convergence of the proposed method is established for nonconvex minimization. Numerical results show that the proposed method is effective and promising by comparing with the VPRP, CG‐DESCENT, and DL+ methods.
Comparison of Predictive Equations for Resting Energy Expenditure in Overweight and Obese Adults
Authors: de Oliveira Erick Prado , Orsatti Fábio Lera , Teixeira Okesley , Maestá Nailza , Burini Roberto Carlos
Published: July 2011

Objective. To compare values from predictive equations of resting energy expenditure (REE) with indirect calorimetry (IC) in overweight and obese adults.Methods. Eighty-two participants aged 30 to 60 years old were retrospectively analyzed. The persons had a body mass index ≥25 kg/m2. REE was estimated by IC and other five equations of the literature (Harris and Benedict, WHO1, WHO2, Owen, Mifflin).Results. All equations had different values when compared to those of IC. The best values were found by Harris and Benedict, WHO1, and WHO2, with high values of intraclass correlation coefficient and low values of mean difference. Furthermore, WHO1 and WHO2 showed lower systematic error and random.Conclusion. No predictive equations had the same values of REE as compared to those of indirect calorimetry, and those which least underestimated REE were the equations of WHO1, WHO2, and Harris and Benedict. The next step would be to validate the new equation proposed.
Impacts of Triclosan in Greywater on Soil Microorganisms
Authors: Harrow Danielle I. , Felker Jill M. , Baker Katherine H.
Published: July 2011

The use of greywater for irrigation is becoming a common practice in arid regions such as the Southwestern US, the Middle East, Australia, and China. While greywater supplies nutrients to soil ecosystems, the possible impact of trace contaminants, particularly pharmaceuticals and personal care products, has not been determined. This paper examined the impact of triclosan, an antibacterial agent commonly added to consumer products, on microbial populations and microbial diversity in soil irrigated with greywater. While there was no change in the total number of heterotrophic microorganisms in the soil, both the types and the antibiotic resistance of the microorganisms were significantly influenced by triclosan. The proportion of the microbial isolates resistant to antibiotics increased while at the same time, overall diversity of the microbial community decreased.
Prospective Changes in Health-Related Quality of Life and Emotional Outcomes in Kidney Transplantation over 6 Years
Authors: Griva Konstadina , Stygall Jan , Ng Juan Hui , Davenport Andrew , Harrison Mike J. , Newman Stanton
Published: July 2011

Little is known on long-term outcomes in kidney transplantation. This study evaluated changes and predictors of generic and transplantation-specific health-related quality of life (HQoL) over six years inN=102kidney transplant survivors using the Short-form Health Survey-36 and the Transplant Effects questionnaire. Mixed models analysis was used to determine long-term outcomes. Emotional HQoL improved over time: Mental Component score, Mental Health, Energy (Ps=.000). Physical HQoL deteriorated: Physical Component Score (P=.001), Pain (P=.002). LRD transplant recipients had greater decline in physical functioning (P=.003) and PCS (P=.000) compared to cadaver recipients. Worry about the transplant (P=.036) and feelings of responsibility (P=.008) increased significantly over time. Worry about the transplant and perceived ability to work predicted 12.7% and 31.1% in variance in MCS and PCS, respectively. Efforts should be made to maintain HQoL and emotional outcomes with ongoing monitoring and support programs throughout the course of posttransplant care.
Teleophthalmology: A Model for Eye Care Delivery in Rural and Underserved Areas of India
Authors: Prathiba Vijayaraghavan , Rema Mohan
Published: July 2011

Objectives. To describe the application of teleophthalmology in rural and underserved areas of India. Study Design. This paper describes the major teleophthalmology projects in India and its benefits. Results. Teleophthalmology is the use of telecommunication for electronic transfer of health-related data from rural and underserved areas of India to specialities in urban cities. The MDRF/WDF Rural Diabetes Project has proved to be very beneficial for improvement of quality health care in Tamilnadu and can be replicated at the national level. This community outreach programme using telemedicine facilities has increased awareness of eye diseases, improved access to specialized health care, helped in local community empowerment, and provided employment opportunities. Early detection of sight threatening disorders by teleophthalmology and prompt treatment can help decrease visual impairment. Conclusion. Teleophthalmology can be a very effective model for improving eye care delivery system in rural and underserved areas of India.
Dispersion of Love Waves in a Composite Layer Resting on Monoclinic Half‐Space
Authors: Saha Sukumar
Published: July 2011

Dispersion of Love waves is studied in a fibre‐reinforced layer resting on monoclinic half‐space. The wave velocity equation has been obtained for a fiber‐reinforced layer resting on monoclinic half space. Shear wave velocity ratio curve for Love waves has been shown graphically for fibre reinforced material layer resting on various monoclinic half‐spaces. In a similar way, shear wave velocity ratio curve for Love waves has been plotted for an isotropic layer resting on various monoclinic half‐spaces. From these curves, it has been observed that the curves are of similar type for a fibre reinforced layer resting on monoclinic half‐spaces, and the shear wave velocity ratio ranges from 1.14 to 7.19, whereas for the case isotropic layer, this range varies from 1.0 to 2.19.
Almost Periodic Functions on Time Scales and Applications
Authors: Li Yongkun , Wang Chao
Published: July 2011

We first propose the concept of almost periodic time scales and then
give the definition of almost periodic functions on almost periodic time scales, then by
using the theory of calculus on time scales and some mathematical methods, some basic
results about almost periodic differential equations on almost periodic time scales are
established. Based on these results, a class of high‐order Hopfield neural networks with
variable delays are studied on almost periodic time scales, and some sufficient conditions
are established for the existence and global asymptotic stability of the almost periodic
solution. Finally, two examples and numerical simulations are presented to illustrate
the feasibility and effectiveness of the results.
Populations of Select Cultured and Uncultured Bacteria in the Rumen of Sheep and the Effect of Diets and Ruminal Fractions
Authors: Stiverson Jill , Morrison Mark , Yu Zhongtang
Published: July 2011

The objective of this study was to assess the importance of select cultured and uncultured bacteria in the rumen by quantifying their populations and the effect of diets and ruminal fractions. Full-length 16S rRNA gene (rrs) sequences were recovered from rumen samples using specific primers designed from partial sequences recovered previously. Five uncultured bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were quantified using specific quantitative PCR (qPCR) in fractionated ruminal samples from sheep fed either hay alone or hay plus corn. SpeciesFibrobacter succinogenes,Ruminococcus albus,R. flavefaciens,Ruminobacter amylophilus,Selenomonas ruminantium, andMitsuokella multacidaand generaButyrivibrioandPrevotellawere also quantified as comparison. The full-lengthrrssequence improved taxonomic assignments of partialrrssequences. GenusPrevotellahad the greatest abundance. Of the three major cultured cellulolytic species,R. flavefacienswas most abundant, followed byR. albusandF. succinogenes. The five uncultured bacterial OTUs, classified to genusAcetivibrio, genusAllobaculum, familyRuminococcaceae, orderClostridiales, or classClostridia, had abundance comparable to that of the above species of genera exceptPrevotella. Corn supplementation and fractions affected distribution of the rumen bacteria, but to a limited extent. When compared to the qPCR data, sequence frequencies in therrsclone libraries tended to overestimate the abundance of the bacteria represented. This study showed that abundance and population dynamics of uncultured bacteria can be quantified by specific qPCR, which complements the results ofrrsclone libraries. This study also revealed that some uncultured bacteria might be as important as some of the well-characterized bacteria in the rumen. The approach used should be applicable to assess the abundance and potential importance of uncultured bacteria in other environments.
Treatment of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats with Alogliptin: Effect on Vascular and Neural Complications
Authors: Davidson Eric P. , Coppey Lawrence J. , Dake Brian , Yorek Mark A.
Published: July 2011

We sought to determine the effect of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibition on streptozotocin diabetes-induced vascular and neural dysfunction. After 4 weeks of untreated diabetes, rats were treated for 12 weeks with Alogliptin (DPP-IV inhibitor). Diabetes caused a slowing of motor and sensory nerve conduction velocity, thermal hypoalgesia, reduction in intraepidermal nerve fiber density in the hindpaw, and impairment in vascular relaxation to acetylcholine and calcitonin gene-related peptide in epineurial arterioles. Treatment significantly improved motor nerve conduction velocity and thermal response latency. Sensory nerve conduction velocity was marginally improved with treatment of diabetic rats, and treatment did not improve the decrease in intraepidermal nerve fiber density. Vascular relaxation by epineurial arterioles to calcitonin gene-related peptide but not acetylcholine was significantly improved with treatment. These studies suggest that some but not all vascular and neural complications associated with type 1 diabetes can be improved with the inhibition of DPP-IV activity.
Role of KIT-Positive Interstitial Cells of Cajal in the Urinary Bladder and Possible Therapeutic Target for Overactive Bladder
Authors: Kubota Yasue , Kojima Yoshiyuki , Shibata Yasuhiro , Imura Makoto , Sasaki Shoichi , Kohri Kenjiro
Published: July 2011

In the gastrointestinal tract, interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) act as pacemaker cells to generate slow wave activity. Interstitial cells that resemble ICCs in the gastrointestinal tract have been identified by their morphological characteristics in the bladder. KIT is used as an identification marker of ICCs. ICCs in the bladder may be involved in signal transmission between smooth muscle bundles, from efferent nerves to smooth muscles, and from the urothelium to afferent nerves. Recent research has suggested that not only the disturbance of spontaneous contractility caused by altered detrusor ICC signal transduction between nerves and smooth muscle cells but also the disturbance of signal transduction between urothelial cells and sensory nerves via suburothelial ICC may induce overactive bladder (OAB). Recent reports have suggested that KIT is not only a detection marker of these cells, but also may play a crucial role in the control of bladder function. Research into the effect of a c-kit receptor inhibitor, imatinib mesylate, on bladder function implies that KIT-positive ICCs may be therapeutic target cells to reduce bladder overactivity and that the blockage of c-kit receptor may offer a new therapeutic strategy for OAB treatment, although further study will be needed.
Alteration of the Cardiac Sympathetic Innervation Is Modulated by Duration of Diabetes in Female Rats
Authors: Švíglerová Jitka , Mudra Jiří , Tonar Zbyněk , Slavíková Jana , Kuncová Jitka
Published: July 2011

To evaluate the sympathetic innervation of the female diabetic heart, resting heart rate and sympathetic tone were assessed in vivo, and effect of tyramine on spontaneous beating rate, norepinephrine atrial concentrations, uptake, and release were determined in vitro in streptozotocin- (STZ-) treated rats and respective controls aged 3 months to 2 years. Resting bradycardia, decreased sympathetic tone, deceleration of spontaneous beating rate, and slightly declining carrier-mediated, but preserved exocytotic norepinephrine release from the atria were found in younger diabetic rats while the reactivity of the right atria to tyramine was not affected with age and disease duration. Diabetic two-year-old animals displayed symptoms of partial spontaneous recovery including normoglycemia, increased plasma insulin concentrations, fully recovered sympathetic tone, but putative change, in releasable norepinephrine tissue stores. Our data suggested that female diabetic heart exposed to long-lasting diabetic conditions seems to be more resistant to alteration in sympathetic innervation than the male one.
A Novel Drive Option for Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Transducers
Authors: Engelke Diana , Oehme Bernd , Strackeljan Jens
Published: July 2011

This paper concentrates on ultrasonic transducers, which are driven by piezoelectric ceramic rings that are arranged in a stack. A novel drive option, where the stack contains a new type of divided piezoelectric rings, is analyzed using the finite element method, prototyped, and tested. To gain a better sense of the vibration behavior, the studies focus initially on one ring and subsequently on the different possibilities to assemble the transducer. The investigations point out that natural bending frequencies can be excited at the transducer. Thus, multiple vibration directions of the tip can be controlled, what can be advantageous for instance in dental applications.
Drug Testing for Newborn Exposure to Illicit Substances in Pregnancy: Pitfalls and Pearls
Authors: Farst Karen J. , Valentine Jimmie L. , Hall R. Whit
Published: July 2011

Estimates of the prevalence of drug usage during pregnancy vary by region and survey tool used. Clinicians providing care to newborns should be equipped to recognize a newborn who has been exposed to illicit drugs during pregnancy by the effects the exposure might cause at the time of delivery and/or by drug testing of the newborn. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the literature and assess the clinical role of drug testing in the newborn. Accurate recognition of a newborn whose mother has used illicit drugs in pregnancy cannot only impact decisions for healthcare in the nursery around the time of delivery, but can also provide a key opportunity to assess the mother for needed services. While drug use in pregnancy is not an independent predictor of the mother's ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for her newborn, other issues that often cooccur in the life of a mother with a substance abuse disorder raise concerns for the safety of the discharge environment and should be assessed. Healthcare providers in these roles should advocate for unbiased and effective treatment services for affected families.
Blood Sugar Lowering Effect ofCoccinia grandis(L.) J. Voigt: Path for a New Drug for Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Munasinghe M. A. A. K. , Abeysena C. , Yaddehige I. S. , Vidanapathirana T. , Piyumal K. P. B.
Published: July 2011

Background. Role of herbs in the management and control of diabetes has emerged fast over the years. We assessed the efficacy ofCoccinia grandis(locally known as Ken, Kovakka) leaves as a hypoglycemic agent.Methods. Double-blind phase I clinical trial was conducted at the general hospital and a private hospital in Matara in August 2009. All the participants were given a common meal for dinner, and they maintained a 10-hour fasting period. Sixty-one healthy volunteers were given a meal containing 20 g of leaves ofCoccinia grandiswhich was mixed with a measured amount of scraped coconut and table salt for breakfast, and other 61 were given the placebo meal which also contained scraped coconut and salt. Glucose tolerance test was performed blindly for the two groups. Mixed factorial design analysis of variance and student'st-test were applied.Results. Overall blood sugar levels of the experimental group were also significantly lower than those of the control group (F(1,117) 5.56, ). Increase in the blood sugar levels from fasting to one hour (F(1,117) 6.77, ) and two hours (F(1,117) 5.28, ) postprandially was statistically significant for participants who were in the control group than those of in the experimental group. The mean difference of postprandial blood sugar levels (mg/dL) after one hour (20.2, 95% confidence interval, 4.81 to 35.5) and two hours (11.46, 95% confidence interval; 1.03 to 21.9) was statistically significant between the two groups.Conclusions.Coccinia grandishas a blood sugar lowering effect. However further studies are needed to validate our findings.
MRI Findings in Neuroferritinopathy
Authors: Ohta Emiko , Takiyama Yoshihisa
Published: July 2011

Neuroferritinopathy is a neurodegenerative disease which demonstrates brain iron accumulation caused by the mutations in the ferritin light chain gene. On brain MRI in neuroferritinopathy, iron deposits are observed as low-intensity areas on T2WI and as signal loss on T2*WI. On T2WI, hyperintense abnormalities reflecting tissue edema and gliosis are also seen. Another characteristic finding is the presence of symmetrical cystic changes in the basal ganglia, which are seen in the advanced stages of this disorder. Atrophy is sometimes noted in the cerebellar and cerebral cortices. The variety in the MRI findings is specific to neuroferritinopathy. Based on observations of an excessive iron content in patients with chronic neurologic disorders, such as Parkinson disease and Alzheimer disease, the presence of excess iron is therefore recognized as a major risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. The future development of multimodal and advanced MRI techniques is thus expected to play an important role in accurately measuring the brain iron content and thereby further elucidating the neurodegenerative process.
Traditional Herbal Medicine, Rikkunshito, Induces HSP60 and Enhances Cytoprotection of Small Intestinal Mucosal Cells as a Nontoxic Chaperone Inducer
Authors: Tamaki Kumiko , Otaka Michiro , Shibuya Tomoyoshi , Sakamoto Naoto , Yamamoto Soh , Odashima Masaru , Itoh Hideaki , Watanabe Sumio
Published: July 2011

Increasing incidence of small intestinal ulcers associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has become a topic with recent advances of endoscopic technology. However, the pathogenesis and therapy are not fully understood. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of Rikkunshito (TJ-43), a traditional herbal medicine, on expression of HSP60 and cytoprotective ability in small intestinal cell line (IEC-6). Effect of TJ-43 on HSP60 expression in IEC-6 cells was evaluated by immunoblot analysis. The effect of TJ-43 on cytoprotective abilities of IEC-6 cells against hydrogen peroxide or indomethacin was studied by MTT assay, LDH-release assay, caspase-8 activity, and TUNEL. HSP60 was significantly induced by TJ-43. Cell necrosis and apoptosis were significantly suppressed in IEC-6 cells pretreated by TJ-43 with overexpression of HSP60. Our results suggested that HSP60 induced by TJ-43 might play an important role in protecting small intestinal epithelial cells from apoptosis and necrosis in vitro.