bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Serum Levels of Inflammatory Mediators and Low Frequency of Regulatory T Cells in the Peripheral Blood of Preeclamptic Mexican Women
Authors: Moreno-Eutimio Mario Adan , Tovar-Rodríguez José María , Vargas-Avila Karina , Nieto-Velázquez Nayeli Goreti , Frías-De-León María Guadalupe , Sierra-Martinez Mónica , Acosta-Altamirano Gustavo
Published: December 2014

Regulatory T cells (Tregs; CD4+CD25highFoxp3+) are critical in maintaining immune tolerance during pregnancy and uterine vascularization. In this study, we show that, in Mexican women with different preeclamptic severity levels, the number ofTregsand the subset of CD4+CD25highFoxp3+ are decreased compared with those of normotensive pregnant women (NP). Moreover, a systemic inflammatory state is a pivotal feature in the pathogenesis of this disorder and could be related to hypertension and endothelial dysfunction. Likewise, we observed elevated levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-8 in the serum of severe preeclamptic patients (SPE); no differences were found in the IL-1βand IL-10 levels compared with those of NP patients. An analysis of chemokines in the preeclamptic serum samples showed high levels of CXCL10, CCL2, and CXCL9. Our findings suggest that the preeclamptic state is linked with systemic inflammation and reduced numbers ofTregs.
A Case of Placenta Increta Mimicking Submucous Leiomyoma
Authors: Ekiz Ali , Polat Ibrahim , Mumusoglu Sezcan , Aydiner Burchan , Ozdemir Cagdas , Arslan Hilal Serap
Published: December 2014

In recent years with the increase in cesarean section rates, the frequency of placenta accreta cases rises. It causes 33–50% of all emergency peripartum hysterectomies. We present a 42-year-old case who was caught with early postpartum hemorrhage due to retained placental products. The ultrasonography showed a 65 × 84 mm mass in the uterine cavity after the delivery. Due to presence of early postpartum hemorrhage which needs transfusion, an intervention decision was made. The patient underwent curettage but the mass could not be removed so that placental retention was ruled out. Submucous leiomyoma was made as first-prediagnosis. Hysterectomy operation was performed as a curative treatment. Placenta increta diagnosis was made as a final diagnosis with pathological examination. As a result, placental attachment disorders may be overlooked if it is not a placenta previa case.
Photon Atomic Parameters of Nonessential Amino Acids for Radiotherapy and Diagnostics
Authors: Bursalıoğlu Ertuğrul O. , İçelli Orhan , Balkan Begüm , Kavanoz H. Birtan , Okutan Mustafa
Published: December 2014

The total mass attenuation coefficients (μt) (cm2/g) and atomic, molecular, and electronic effective cross sections have been calculated for nonessential amino acids that contain H, C, N, and O such as tyrosine, aspartate, glutamine, alanine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, and glycine in the wide energy region 0.015–15 MeV. The variations with energy of total mass attenuation coefficients and atomic, molecular, and electronic cross sections are shown for all photon interactions.
Antiatherosclerotic and Cardioprotective Potential ofAcacia senegalSeeds in Diet-Induced Atherosclerosis in Rabbits
Authors: Ram Heera , Jatwa Rameshwar , Purohit Ashok
Published: December 2014

Acacia senegalL. (Fabaceae) seeds are essential ingredient of “Pachkutta,” a specific Rajasthani traditional food. The present study explored antiatherosclerotic and cardioprotective potential ofAcacia senegalseed extract, if any, in hypercholesterolemic diet-induced atherosclerosis in rabbits. Atherosclerosis in rabbits was induced by feeding normal diet supplemented with oral administration of cholesterol (500 mg/kg body weight/day mixed with coconut oil) for 15 days. Circulating total cholesterol (TC), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides, and VLDL-cholesterol (VLDL-C) levels; atherogenic index (AI); cardiac lipid peroxidation (LPO); planimetric studies of aortal wall; and histopathological studies of heart, aorta, kidney, and liver were performed. Apart from reduced atherosclerotic plaques in aorta (6.34±0.72) and increased lumen volume (51.65±3.66), administration with ethanolic extract ofAcacia senegalseeds (500 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 45 days to atherosclerotic rabbits significantly lowered serum TC, LDL-C, triglyceride, and VLDL-C levels and atherogenic index as compared to control. Atherogenic diet-induced cardiac LPO and histopathological abnormalities in aorta wall, heart, kidney, and liver were reverted to normalcy byAcacia senegalseed extract administration. The findings of the present study reveal thatAcacia senegalseed extract ameliorated diet-induced atherosclerosis and could be considered as lead in the development of novel therapeutics.
In Vitro Intestinal Permeability Studies and Pharmacokinetic Evaluation of Famotidine Microemulsion for Oral Delivery
Authors: Jha Sajal Kumar , Karki Roopa , Puttegowda Venkatesh Dinnekere , Harinarayana D.
Published: December 2014

The absolute bioavailability of famotidine after oral administration is about 40–45% and absorbance only in the initial part of small intestine may be due to low intestinal permeability. Hence, an olive oil based microemulsion formulation with Tween-80 as surfactant and PEG-400 as cosurfactant was developed by using water titration method with the aim of enhancing the intestinal permeability as well as oral bioavailability. In vitro drug permeation in intestine after 8 h for all formulations varied from 30.42% to 78.39% and most of the formulations showed enhanced permeation compared to pure drug (48.92%). Famotidine microemulsion exhibited the higher absorption and Cmax⁡ achieved from the optimized famotidine formulation (456.20 ng·h/ml) was higher than the standard (126.80 ng·h/mL). It was found that AUC0–24 h obtained from the optimized famotidine test formulation (3023.5 ng·h/mL) was significantly higher than the standard famotidine (1663.3 ng·h/mL). F-1 demonstrated a longer (6 h) Tmax⁡ compared with standard drug (2 h) and sustained the release of drug over 24 h. The bioavailability of F-1 formulation was about 1.8-fold higher than that of standard drug. This enhanced bioavailability of famotidine loaded in microemulsion system might be due to increased intestinal permeability.
Gemella morbillorumEndocarditis
Authors: Ural Serap , Gul Yurtsever Sureyya , Ormen Bahar , Turker Nesrin , Kaptan Figen , El Sibel , Akyildiz Zehra Ilke , Coskun Nejat Ali
Published: December 2014

Infective endocarditis caused byGemella morbillorumis a rare disease. In this report 67-year-old male patient withG. morbillorumendocarditis was presented. The patient was hospitalized as he had a fever of unknown origin and in the two of the three sets of blood cultures taken at the first day of hospitalizationG. morbillorumwas identified. The transthoracic echogram revealed 14 × 10 mm vegetation on the aortic noncoronary cuspis. After 4 weeks of antibiotic therapy, the case was referred to the clinic of cardiovascular surgery for valve surgery.
Dystrophic Calcification of the Prostate after Cryotherapy
Authors: Dru Christopher , Bender Leon
Published: December 2014

We present a previously undocumented complication of dystrophic calcification of the prostate after cryotherapy. An 87-year-old male presented with recurrent lower urinary tract infections and was found to have an obstructing large calcified mass in the right lobe of the prostate. Subsequently, he underwent transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and bladder neck with laser lithotripsy to remove the calculus. We propose that chronic inflammation and necrosis of the prostate from cryotherapy resulted in dystrophic calcification of the prostate. As the use of cryotherapy for the treatment of localized prostate cancer continues to increase, it is important that clinicians be aware of this scenario and the technical challenges it poses.
Evaluation Models for Soil Nutrient Based on Support Vector Machine and Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Li Hao , Leng Weijia , Zhou Yibing , Chen Fudi , Xiu Zhilong , Yang Dazuo
Published: December 2014

Soil nutrient is an important aspect that contributes to the soil fertility and environmental effects. Traditional evaluation approaches of soil nutrient are quite hard to operate, making great difficulties in practical applications. In this paper, we present a series of comprehensive evaluation models for soil nutrient by using support vector machine (SVM), multiple linear regression (MLR), and artificial neural networks (ANNs), respectively. We took the content of organic matter, total nitrogen, alkali-hydrolysable nitrogen, rapidly available phosphorus, and rapidly available potassium as independent variables, while the evaluation level of soil nutrient content was taken as dependent variable. Results show that the average prediction accuracies of SVM models are 77.87% and 83.00%, respectively, while the general regression neural network (GRNN) model’s average prediction accuracy is 92.86%, indicating that SVM and GRNN models can be used effectively to assess the levels of soil nutrient with suitable dependent variables. In practical applications, both SVM and GRNN models can be used for determining the levels of soil nutrient.
Geometric and Meshing Properties of Conjugate Curves for Gear Transmission
Authors: Liang Dong , Chen Bingkui , Gao Yane , Peng Shuai , Qin Siling
Published: December 2014

Conjugate curves have been put forward previously by authors for gear transmission. Compared with traditional conjugate surfaces, the conjugate curves have more flexibility and diversity in aspects of gear design and generation. To further extend its application in power transmission, the geometric and meshing properties of conjugate curves are discussed in this paper. Firstly, general principle descriptions of conjugate curves for arbitrary axial position are introduced. Secondly, geometric analysis of conjugate curves is carried out based on differential geometry including tangent and normal in arbitrary contact direction, characteristic point, and curvature relationships. Then, meshing properties of conjugate curves are further revealed. According to a given plane or spatial curve, the uniqueness of conjugated curve under different contact angle conditions is discussed. Meshing commonality of conjugate curves is also demonstrated in terms of a class of spiral curves contacting in the given direction for various gear axes. Finally, a conclusive summary of this study is given.
Stochastic Consensus of Single‐Integrator Multiagent Systems with Inherent Nonlinear Dynamics and Measurement Noises in Directed Fixed Topologies
Authors: Djaidja Sabir , Wu Qinghe
Published: December 2014

Consensus of continuous‐time single‐integrator multiagent systems with inherent nonlinear dynamics and measurement noises is addressed in this paper. The consensus controller is developed for directed interaction topologies. Each agent’s control input is constructed based on its own state and its neighbors’ states corrupted by noises. The control input contains a time‐varying consensus gain in order to attenuate the noises. Conditions for ensuring mean square convergence under noisy measurement and asymptotic convergence in the noise‐free case are derived. Finally, some simulations were carried out to show the effectiveness of our control law and how it can solve the consensus problem.
Multiple Antimicrobial Resistance ofEscherichia coliIsolated from Chickens in Iran
Authors: Talebiyan Reza , Kheradmand Mehdi , Khamesipour Faham , Rabiee-Faradonbeh Mohammad
Published: December 2014

Antimicrobial agents are used extremely in order to reduce the great losses caused byEscherichia coliinfections in poultry industry. In this study, 318 pathogenicEscherichia coli(APEC) strains isolated from commercial broiler flocks with coli-septicemia were examined for antimicrobials of both veterinary and human significance by disc diffusion method. Multiple resistances to antimicrobial agents were observed in all the isolates. Resistance to the antibiotics was as follows: Tylosin (88.68%), Erythromycin (71.70%), Oxytetracycline (43.40%), Sulfadimethoxine-Trimethoprim (39.62%), Enrofloxacin (37.74%), Florfenicol (35.85%), Chlortetracycline (33.96%), Doxycycline (16.98%), Difloxacin (32.08%), Danofloxacin (28.30%), Chloramphenicol (20.75%), Ciprofloxacin (7.55%), and Gentamicin (5.66%). This study showed resistance against the antimicrobial agents that are commonly applied in poultry, although resistance against the antibiotics that are only applied in humans or less frequently used in poultry was significantly low. This study emphasizes on the occurrence of multiple drug resistantE. coliamong diseased broiler chickens in Iran. The data revealed the relative risks of using antimicrobials in poultry industry. It also concluded that use of antibiotics must be limited in poultry farms in order to reduce the antibiotic resistances.
Giardia duodenalis: Number and Fluorescence Reduction Caused by the Advanced Oxidation Process (H2O2/UV)
Authors: Guimarães José Roberto , Franco Regina Maura Bueno , Guadagnini Regiane Aparecida , Santos Luciana Urbano dos
Published: December 2014

This study evaluated the effect of peroxidation assisted by ultraviolet radiation (H2O2/UV), which is an advanced oxidation process (AOP), on Giardia duodenalis cysts. The cysts were inoculated in synthetic and surface water using a concentration of 12 g H2O2 L−1 and a UV dose (λ=254 nm) of 5,480 mJcm−2. The aqueous solutions were concentrated using membrane filtration, and the organisms were observed using a direct immunofluorescence assay (IFA). The AOP was effective in reducing the number of G. duodenalis cysts in synthetic and surface water and was most effective in reducing the fluorescence of the cyst walls that were present in the surface water. The AOP showed a higher deleterious potential for G. duodenalis cysts than either peroxidation (H2O2) or photolysis (UV) processes alone.
Oral Hygiene Status, Periodontal Status, and Periodontal Treatment Needs among Institutionalized Intellectually Disabled Subjects in Kolhapur District, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Kadam Nilima S. , Patil Rahul , Gurav Abhijit N. , Patil Yojana , Shete Abhijeet , Naik Tari Ritam , Agarwal Dhanashree , Shirke D. T. , Jadhav Prashant
Published: December 2014

The aim of the study was to determine influence of intellectually disability (ID) on oral hygiene status (OHS), periodontal status (PS), and periodontal treatment needs (PTNs) and investigate the association of these clinical parameters with various sociodemographic and clinical variables among multicentric institutionalized ID subjects aged 5–55 years in Kolhapur district, Maharashtra, India. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted by both questionnaire and clinical examination. OHS, PS, and PTNs of these subjects were assessed by recording Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) and Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs, respectively. Analysis of variance and multiple logistic and stepwise linear regression analysis were used for statistical analysis. Of the 576 subjects examined, the mean age of the subjects was 17.50 ± 7.4 years. Subjects with profound level of ID had the highest mean OHI-S, PS, and PTNs scores of 4.47 ± 1.04, 2.84 ± 0.78, and 2.25 ± 0.44, respectively, as compared with other ID groups (P<0.0001). The present study signified that ID subjects had poor OHS and PS with the highest PTNs and were influenced by age (P<0.0001), degree of ID (P<0.0001), SES, location, institution type, and parent’s level education. The present study underlines a considerable need for prevention and treatment of periodontal disease among ID subjects in India.
Stability and Bifurcation Analysis of a Singular Delayed Predator‐Prey Bioeconomic Model with Stochastic Fluctuations
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhang Qingling
Published: December 2014

This study investigates a singular delayed predator‐prey bioeconomic model with stochastic fluctuations, which is described by differential‐algebraic equations because of economic factors. The interior equilibrium of the singular delayed predator‐prey bioeconomic model switches from being stable to unstable and then back to being stable, with the increase in time delay. The critical values for stability switches and Hopf bifurcations can be analytically determined. Subsequently, the effect of a fluctuating environment on the singular stochastic delayed predator‐prey bioeconomic model obtained by introducing Gaussian white noise terms to the aforementioned deterministic model system is discussed. The fluctuation intensity of the population and harvest effort are calculated by Fourier transform method. Numerical simulation results are presented to verify the effectiveness of the conclusions.
CLCA2 as a Novel Immunohistochemical Marker for Differential Diagnosis of Squamous Cell Carcinoma from Adenocarcinoma of the Lung
Authors: Shinmura Kazuya , Igarashi Hisaki , Kato Hisami , Kawanishi Yuichi , Inoue Yusuke , Nakamura Satoki , Ogawa Hiroshi , Yamashita Takashi , Kawase Akikazu , Funai Kazuhito , Sugimura Haruhiko
Published: December 2014

Recent progress in targeted therapy for lung cancer has revealed that accurate differential diagnosis between squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (ADC) of the lung is essential. To identify a novel immunohistochemical marker useful for differential diagnosis between the two subtypes of lung cancer, we first selected 24 SCC-specific genes and 6 ADC-specific genes using data (case number, 980) from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Among the genes, we chose theCLCA2gene, which is involved in chloride conductance and whose protein expression in lung cancer is yet to be characterized, and evaluated its protein expression status in 396 cases of primary lung cancer at Hamamatsu University Hospital. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a significantly higher CLCA2 expression level in the SCCs than in the ADCs(P<0.0001)and also a significantly higher frequency of CLCA2 protein expression in the SCCs (104/161, 64.6%) as compared with that in the ADCs (2/235, 0.9%)(P<0.0001; sensitivity 64.6%, specificity 99.1%). The CLCA2 protein expression status was associated with the histological tumor grade in the SCCs. These results suggest that CLCA2 might be a novel excellent immunohistochemical marker for differentiating between primary SCC and primary ADC of the lung.
A Validated Stability Indicating RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation for Simultaneous Estimation of Aliskiren Hemifumarate and Amlodipine Besylate in Pharmaceutical Dosage Form
Authors: Runja Chinnalalaiah , Ravikumar P. , Avanapu Srinivasa Rao
Published: December 2014

The present study describes the stability indicating RP-HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of aliskiren hemifumarate and amlodipine besylate in pharmaceutical dosage forms. The proposed RP-HPLC method was developed by using waters 2695 separation module equipped with PDA detector and chromatographic separation was carried on C-8 Inertsil ODS (150 × 4.6 mm, 5 µ) column at a flow rate of 1 mL/min and the run time is 10 min. The mobile phase consisted of phosphate buffer and acetonitrile in the ratio of 40 : 60% v/v and pH was adjusted to 3 with orthophosphoric acid and eluents were scanned using PDA detector at 237 nm. The retention time of aliskiren and amlodipine was found to be 3.98 and 5.14 min, respectively. A linearity response was observed in the concentration range of 30–225 µg/mL for aliskiren and 2–15 µg/mL for amlodipine, respectively. Limit of detection and limit of quantification for aliskiren are 0.161 µg/mL and 0.489 µg/mL and for amlodipine are 0.133 µg/mL and 0.404 µg/mL, respectively. The stability indicating method was developed by subjecting the drugs to stress conditions such as acid and base hydrolysis, oxidation, and photo- and thermal degradation and the degraded products formed were resolved successfully from the samples.
A Predictive HQSAR Model for a Series of Tricycle Core Containing MMP-12 Inhibitors with Dibenzofuran Ring
Authors: Shamsara Jamal , Shahir-Sadr Ahmad
Published: December 2014

MMP-12 is a member of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) family involved in pathogenesis of some inflammatory based diseases. Design of selective matrix MMPs inhibitors is still challenging because of binding pocket similarities among MMPs family. We tried to generate a HQSAR (hologram quantitative structure activity relationship) model for a series of MMP-12 inhibitors. Compounds in the series of inhibitors with reported biological activity against MMP-12 were used to construct a predictive HQSAR model for their inhibitory activity against MMP-12. The HQSAR model had statistically excellent properties and possessed good predictive ability for test set compounds. The HQSAR model was obtained for the 26 training set compounds showing cross-validated q2 value of 0.697 and conventional r2 value of 0.986. The model was then externally validated using a test set of 9 compounds and the predicted values were in good agreement with the experimental results (rpred2=0.8733). Then, the external validity of the model was confirmed by Golbraikh-Tropsha and rm2 metrics. The color code analysis based on the obtained HQSAR model provided useful insights into the structural features of the training set for their bioactivity against MMP-12 and was useful for the design of some new not yet synthesized MMP-12 inhibitors.
Effects of Subchronic Exposure to Cadmium and Diazinon on Testis and Epididymis in Rats
Authors: Adamkovicova Maria , Toman Robert , Cabaj Michal , Massanyi Peter , Martiniakova Monika , Omelka Radoslav , Krajcovicova Vladimira , Duranova Hana
Published: December 2014

The present study aimed to elucidate the structural changes in testis and epididymis of adult rats following subchronic peroral administration of cadmium at 30 mg/L, diazinon at 40 mg/L, cadmium at 30 mg/L, and diazinon at 40 mg/L, respectively. At the end of 90-day experiment, the samples of the testes and epididymis were assayed by qualitative and quantitative histological methods. The testis and epididymis weights increased following exposure to cadmium and simultaneous exposure to cadmium and diazinon. Testicular damage following cadmium and diazinon coexposure was significantly less expressive than in groups with individual administration of these compounds. Cadmium caused a significant thickening of seminiferous epithelium, cellular degeneration, and necrosis. Desquamation of immature germ cells resulted in a significant increase of intraepithelial spaces and reduced tubule volume in all experimental groups. Vascular dilation and congestion were detected in the interstitial tissue. The changes in epididymal histology in the group exposed to cadmium and group exposed simultaneously included a reduction of epithelium, necrotic epithelial cells, vasoconstriction, and interstitial edema together with mononuclear cell infiltration. Results did not indicate a synergistic or any additional effect from the simultaneous administration of both toxicants. Further research is needed to determine the significance and the mechanism of the adverse effects.
Elevated Serum IgG4 Defines Specific Clinical Phenotype of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Chen Le-Feng , Mo Ying-Qian , Ma Jian-Da , Luo Ling , Zheng Dong-hui , Dai Lie
Published: December 2014

Objectives. To explore the correlation of serum IgG4 (sIgG4) with clinical manifestations or therapeutic response in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Methods. Consecutive 136 RA patients were recruited and followed up at regular interval. SIgG4 was detected by immunonephelometry. Serial synovial tissue sections from 46 RA patients were stained immunohistochemically for IgG4.Results. Forty-six percent of 136 RA patients had elevated sIgG4. Patients with elevated sIgG4 had higher sIgG4/sIgG ratio, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, rheumatoid factor, and anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies than those with normal sIgG4 (allP<0.05). Among 45 patients who received methotrexate and leflunomide therapy, 50% (9/18) of patients with elevated sIgG4 and 85% (23/27) of patients with normal sIgG4 reached therapeutic target (disease activity score of 28 joints < 3.2) at 6-month visit (χ2=6.508,P=0.011). IgG4-positive plasma cell count correlated positively with sIgG4, total synovitis score, and CD3-, CD20-, and CD38-positive cell counts (allP<0.05).Conclusions. Our results showed that elevated sIgG4 in RA is common and disproportional to total IgG and RA with elevated sIgG4 may be a specific clinical phenotype with higher disease activity, higher level of autoantibodies, and poor response to methotrexate and leflunomide therapy.
Maternal Obesity and Occurrence of Fetal Macrosomia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gaudet Laura , Ferraro Zachary M. , Wen Shi Wu , Walker Mark
Published: December 2014

Objective. To determine a precise estimate for the contribution of maternal obesity to macrosomia.Data Sources. The search strategy included database searches in 2011 of PubMed, Medline (In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Ovid Medline, 1950–2011), and EMBASE Classic + EMBASE. Appropriate search terms were used for each database. Reference lists of retrieved articles and review articles were cross-referenced.Methods of Study Selection. All studies that examined the relationship between maternal obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) (pregravid or at 1st prenatal visit) and fetal macrosomia (birth weight ≥4000 g, ≥4500 g, or ≥90th percentile) were considered for inclusion.Tabulation, Integration, and Results. Data regarding the outcomes of interest and study quality were independently extracted by two reviewers. Results from the meta-analysis showed that maternal obesity is associated with fetal overgrowth, defined as birth weight ≥ 4000 g (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.92, 2.45), birth weight ≥4500 g (OR 2.77,95% CI 2.22, 3.45), and birth weight ≥90% ile for gestational age (OR 2.42, 95% CI 2.16, 2.72).Conclusion. Maternal obesity appears to play a significant role in the development of fetal overgrowth. There is a critical need for effective personal and public health initiatives designed to decrease prepregnancy weight and optimize gestational weight gain.
On the Relation between NARX Clusters and Even/Odd Nonlinearities through Frequency‐Domain Analysis
Authors: Brito Alexandro G. , Hemerly Elder M. , Leite Filho Waldemar C.
Published: December 2014

Although polynomial NARX models have been intensively used in nonlinear system identification, few papers discussed how to relate the inner nonlinearities to specific types of clusters and regressors. The objective of this paper is to discuss this relationship for a class of systems that contain even or odd nonlinearities. This class covers block‐structured models (Hammerstein, Wiener, and others) and systems with dynamic nonlinearities. To achieve the paper’s aim, a deep frequency‐domain analysis is performed. For each type of nonlinearity, all the NARX clusters are investigated and the results show that each regressor type provides specific nonlinear contribution. The investigation is based on an output power spectra analysis when a specific multisinusoidal excitation is applied. According to the spectral contributions in some of the frequency lines, the nonlinearity classification is possible. By applying the same procedure to the clusters, one interprets how these clusters can (or not) contribute to explain the system nonlinearity. The paper findings have two major impacts: (i) one gains deep knowledge on how the nonlinearities are coded by the clusters, and (ii) this information can be used, for instance, to aid a structure selection procedure (ERR, term clustering, etc.) during the discarding of the clusters which are not able to explain the system nonlinear behavior. Some practical and experimental aspects are discussed, while numerical examples are presented to show the validity of the theoretical analysis.
Phantom Eye Syndrome: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Andreotti Agda M. , Goiato Marcelo C. , Pellizzer Eduardo P. , Pesqueira Aldiéris A. , Guiotti Aimée M. , Gennari-Filho Humberto , Santos Daniela M. dos
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this literature review was to describe the main features of phantom eye syndrome in relation to their possible causes, symptoms, treatments, and influence of eye amputation on quality of life of anophthalmic patients. For this, a bibliographical research was performed in Pubmed database using the following terms: “eye amputation,” “eye trauma,” “phantom eye syndrome,” “phantom pain,” and “quality of life,” associated or not. Thirteen studies were selected, besides some relevant references contained in the selected manuscripts and other studies hallowed in the literature. Thus, 56 articles were included in this review. The phantom eye syndrome is defined as any sensation reported by the patient with anophthalmia, originated anophthalmic cavity. In phantom eye syndrome, at least one of these three symptoms has to be present: phantom vision, phantom pain, and phantom sensations. This syndrome has a direct influence on the quality of life of the patients, and psychological support is recommended before and after the amputation of the eyeball as well as aid in the treatment of the syndrome. Therefore, it is suggested that, for more effective treatment of phantom eye syndrome, drug therapy should be associated with psychological approach.
Exploratory Study of Sensitization in Cryogenically Cooled Ferritic Stainless Steel Welds
Authors: Amuda M. O. H. , Mridha S.
Published: December 2014

Enhanced cooling via forced convection using cryogenic liquid is an option for controlling grain growth in the heat affected zone (HAZ) of ferritic stainless steel welds which improves joint strength. However, this technique seems to alter the martensite distribution in the high-temperature heat affected zone (HTHAZ) which is a critical constituent in rating the susceptibility to sensitization in ferritic stainless steel grades; any such information is not available in the literature. Thus, it is imperative to establish the influence of cryogenic cooling on sensitization dynamics in the HTHAZ. This paper discusses the influence of cryogenic cooling on sensitization in an AISI 430 ferritic stainless steel weld. It is established that cryogenic cooling increases the cooling rate in the HTHAZ and reduces the martensite volume percent by an average of 20%. This reduction in martensite content in the HTHAZ increases the level of ditched structure in cryogenically cooled welds and yields more ferrite-martensite ditched grain boundaries than in conventional welds. Although the cryotreated welds exhibit greater ditched boundary, the structure is still classified as nonsensitized, since no single grain boundary is completely surrounded by ditches.
In Vivo MR Microneurography of the Tibial and Common Peroneal Nerves
Authors: Felisaz Paolo F. , Chang Eric Y. , Carne Irene , Montagna Stefano , Balducci Francesco , Maugeri Giulia , Pichiecchio Anna , Calliada Fabrizio , Baldi Maurizia , Bastianello Stefano
Published: December 2014

MR microneurography is a noninvasive technique that provides visualization of the microanatomy of peripheral nerves, otherwise available only with histopathology. The objective of this study was to present a protocol to visualize the microstructure of peripheral nerves in vivo, using a 3T MRI scanner with a clinical set of coils and sequences. The tibial and the common peroneal nerves of healthy volunteers were imaged above the medial malleolus and at the level of the fibular head, respectively. The acquired images provided details about the internal structure of peripheral nerves, with visualization of the fascicles, the interfascicular fat, the epineurium, and the perineurium. MR microneurography can be performed in a clinical setting with acceptable imaging times and can be a potentially powerful tool that complements standard MR neurography.
Hindfoot Valgus following Interlocking Nail Treatment for Tibial Diaphysis Fractures: Can the Fibula Be Neglected?
Authors: Uzun Metin , Kara Adnan , Adaş Müjdat , Karslioğlu Bülent , Bülbül Murat , Beksaç Burak
Published: December 2014

Purpose. We evaluated whether intramedullary nail fixation for tibial diaphysis fractures with concomitant fibula fractures (except at the distal one-third level) managed conservatively with an associated fibula fracture resulted in ankle deformity and assessed the impact of the ankle deformity on lower extremity function.Methods. Sixty middle one-third tibial shaft fractures with associated fibular fractures, except the distal one-third level, were included in this study. All tibial shaft fractures were anatomically reduced and fixed with interlocking intramedullary nails. Fibular fractures were managed conservatively. Hindfoot alignment was assessed clinically. Tibia and fibular lengths were compared to contralateral measurements using radiographs. Functional results were evaluated using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the Foot and Ankle Disability Index Score (FADI).Results. Anatomic union, defined as equal length in operative and contralateral tibias, was achieved in 60 fractures (100%). Fibular shortening was identified in 42 fractures (68%). Mean fibular shortening was 1.2 cm (range, 0.5–2 cm). Clinical exams showed increased hindfoot valgus in 42 fractures (68%). The mean KOOS was 88.4, and the mean FADI score was 90.Conclusion. Fibular fractures in the middle or proximal one-third may need to be stabilized at the time of tibial intramedullary nail fixation to prevent development of hindfoot valgus due to fibular shortening.
Barcoding Melting Curve Analysis for Rapid, Sensitive, and Discriminating Authentication of Saffron (Crocus sativusL.) from Its Adulterants
Authors: Jiang Chao , Cao Liang , Yuan Yuan , Chen Min , Jin Yan , Huang Luqi
Published: December 2014

Saffron (Crocus sativusL.) is one of the most important and expensive medicinal spice products in the world. Because of its high market value and premium price, saffron is often adulterated through the incorporation of other materials, such asCarthamus tinctoriusL. andCalendula officinalisL. flowers,HemerocallisL. petals,Daucus carotaL. fleshy root,Curcuma longaL. rhizomes,Zea mayL., andNelumbo nuciferaGaertn. stigmas. To develop a straightforward, nonsequencing method for rapid, sensitive, and discriminating detection of these adulterants in traded saffron, we report here the application of a barcoding melting curve analysis method (Bar-MCA) that uses the universal chloroplast plant DNA barcoding regiontrnH-psbAto identify adulterants. When amplified at DNA concentrations and annealing temperatures optimized for the curve analysis, peaks were formed at specific locations for saffron (81.92°C) and the adulterants:D. carota(81.60°C),C. tinctorius(80.10°C),C. officinalis(79.92°C),Dendranthema morifolium(Ramat.) Tzvel. (79.62°C),N. nucifera(80.58°C),Hemerocallis fulva(L.) L. (84.78°C), andZ. mays(84.33°C). The constructed melting curves for saffron and its adulterants have significantly different peak locations or shapes. In conclusion, Bar-MCA could be a faster and more cost-effective method to authenticate saffron and detect its adulterants.
Optimal Timing for Resuming Antithrombotic Agents and Risk Factors for Delayed Bleeding after Endoscopic Resection of Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Beppu Kazuko , Osada Taro , Sakamoto Naoto , Shibuya Tomoyoshi , Matsumoto Kenshi , Nagahara Akihito , Terai Takeshi , Ogihara Tatsuo , Watanabe Sumio
Published: December 2014

Aim. To examine optimal timing for resuming antithrombotic agents and risk factors for delayed bleeding after endoscopic resection of colorectal tumors.Method. Of 1,970 polyps larger than 10 mm removed by polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection, or endoscopic submucosal dissection, delayed bleeding, which was designated as bleeding that occurred 6 or more hours after endoscopic treatment, occurred in 52 cases (2.6%); 156 nonbleeding cases matched for age and gender were controls in this single-institution retrospective case-control study. We investigated (1) patient-factors: resuming antithrombotic agents within 5 days following endoscopic resection, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus; and (2) tumor-factors: morphology, size, location, and resection technique by conditional logistic regression.Results. By multivariate analysis resumption of anticoagulants within 5 days was a significant risk factor for delayed bleeding (OR 10.2; 95% CI = 2.7–38.3;P=0.0006). But resuming a thienopyridine within 5 days was not (OR 0.9; 95% CI = 0.1–2.6;P=0.40). Other patient- and tumor-factors were not significant.Conclusion. Resuming anticoagulants within 5 days after endoscopic treatment was associated with delayed bleeding whereas resuming thienopyridines was not.
The Prevalence and Pattern of Superficial Fungal Infections among School Children in Ile-Ife, South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Oke Olaide Olutoyin , Onayemi Olaniyi , Olasode Olayinka Abimbola , Omisore Akinlolu Gabriel , Oninla Olumayowa Abimbola
Published: December 2014

Fungal infections of the skin and nails are common global problems with attendant morbidity among affected individuals. Children are mostly affected due to predisposing factors such as overcrowding and low socioeconomic factors. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and the clinical patterns of superficial fungal infections among primary school children in Ile-Ife. A multistage sampling was conducted to select eight hundred pupils from ten primary schools in Ile-Ife. Data on epidemiological characteristics and clinical history was collected using a semistructured questionnaire and skin scrapings were done. The prevalence of superficial fungal infections among the 800 respondents was 35.0%. Male pupils constituted 51.0% of respondents while the females were 49.0%. The mean age for all the respondents was 9.42 ± 2.00. Tinea capitis was the commonest infection with a prevalence of 26.9% and tinea unguium, tinea corporis, and tinea faciei had a prevalence of 0.8%, 0.6%, and 0.5%, respectively. Tinea manuum had the least prevalence of 0.1%. Pityriasis versicolor had a prevalence of 4.4%.Microsporum audouiniiwas the leading organism isolated. The study shows that the prevalence of superficial fungal infection (SFI) among primary school children in Ile-Ife is high with tinea capitis as the commonest SFI.
Evidence for Central Asian Origin of the p.Val27Ile Variant in the GJB2 Gene
Authors: García Sánchez Guille , Alfaro-Rodríguez Alfonso , Poblano Adrián
Published: December 2014

The mutations in the GJB2 gene are the most common cause of nonsyndromic hearing impairment and they are associated with the population’s ethnic background. The p.Val27Ile is frequent in both Asia and America. In this retrospective study, we report the findings from the GJB2 screening and the audiological exams conducted on 125 Mexican mestizo patients with non-syndromic hearing impairment; they were treated at the Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitacion in Mexico City. The most frequent audiometric findings were bilateral, symmetrical, and profound hearing impairment. The allele frequencies in the GJB2 screening were p.Val27Ile 15%, other mutations 5%, and wild type 80%. We found no correlation between GJB2 genotype and auditory phenotype. The high allele frequency of p.Val27Ile was a very interesting finding. Our research suggests that p.Val27Ile arose in an ancient common ancestor who lived in Altai Republic and then the polymorphism was brought to America by its first inhabitants, the Amerindians. These results enhance our understanding of the peopling of the America, which remains unresolved.
Tumor Angiogenesis Therapy Using Targeted Delivery of Paclitaxel to the Vasculature of Breast Cancer Metastases
Authors: Zhu Shijun , Kisiel Walter , Lu Yang J. , Petersen Lars C. , Ndungu John M. , Moore Terry W. , Parker Ernest T. , Sun Aiming , Liotta Dennis C. , El-Rayes Bassel F. , Brat Daniel J. , Snyder James P. , Shoji Mamoru
Published: December 2014

Breast cancer aberrantly expresses tissue factor (TF) in cancer tissues and cancer vascular endothelial cells (VECs). TF plays a central role in cancer angiogenesis, growth, and metastasis and, as such, is a target for therapy and drug delivery. TF is the cognate receptor of factor VIIa (fVIIa). We have coupled PTX (paclitaxel, also named Taxol) with a tripeptide, phenylalanine-phenylalanine-arginine chloromethyl ketone (FFRck) and conjugated it with fVIIa. The key aim of the work is to evaluate the antiangiogenic effects of PTX-FFRck-fVIIa against a PTX-resistant breast cancer cell line. Matrigel mixed with VEGF and MDA-231 was injected subcutaneously into the flank of athymic nude mice. Animals were treated by tail vein injection of the PTX-FFRck-fVIIa conjugate, unconjugated PTX, or PBS. The PTX-FFRck-fVIIa conjugate significantly reduces microvessel density in matrigel (p<0.01–0.05) compared to PBS and unconjugated PTX. The breast cancer lung metastasis model in athymic nude mice was developed by intravenous injection of MDA-231 cells expressing luciferase. Animals were similarly treated intravenously with the PTX-FFRck-fVIIa conjugate or PBS. The conjugate significantly inhibits lung metastasis as compared to the control, highlighting its potential to antagonize angiogenesis in metastatic carcinoma. In conclusion, PTX conjugated to fVIIa is a promising therapeutic approach for improving selective drug delivery and inhibiting angiogenesis.
Prefronto-Cerebellar Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Improves Sleep Quality in Euthymic Bipolar Patients: A Brief Report
Authors: Minichino Amedeo , Bersani Francesco Saverio , Spagnoli Francesco , Corrado Alessandra , De Michele Francesco , Calò Wanda Katharina , Primavera Martina , Yang Baoran , Bernabei Laura , Macrì Francesco , Vergnani Lucilla , Biondi Massimo , Delle Chiaie Roberto
Published: December 2014

Introduction.Sleep problems are common in bipolar disorder (BD) and may persist during the euthymic phase of the disease. The aim of the study was to improve sleep quality of euthymic BD patients through the administration of prefronto-cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS).Methods.25 euthymic outpatients with a diagnosis of BD Type I or II have been enrolled in the study. tDCS montage was as follows: cathode on the right cerebellar cortex and anode over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC); the intensity of stimulation was set at 2 mA and delivered for 20 min/die for 3 consecutive weeks. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to assess sleep quality at baseline and after the tDCS treatment.Results.PSQI total score and all PSQI subdomains, with the exception of “sleep medication,” significantly improved after treatment.Discussion.This is the first study where a positive effect of tDCS on the quality of sleep in euthymic BD patients has been reported. As both prefrontal cortex and cerebellum may play a role in regulating sleep processes, concomitant cathodal (inhibitory) stimulation of cerebellum and anodal (excitatory) stimulation of DLPFC may have the potential to modulate prefrontal-thalamic-cerebellar circuits leading to improvements of sleep quality.
Script Identification from Printed Indian Document Images and Performance Evaluation Using Different Classifiers
Authors: Obaidullah Sk Md , Mondal Anamika , Das Nibaran , Roy Kaushik
Published: December 2014

Identification of script from document images is an active area of research under document image processing for a multilingual/ multiscript country like India. In this paper the real life problem of printed script identification from official Indian document images is considered and performances of different well-known classifiers are evaluated. Two important evaluating parameters, namely, AAR (average accuracy rate) and MBT (model building time), are computed for this performance analysis. Experiment was carried out on 459 printed document images with 5-fold cross-validation. Simple Logistic model shows highest AAR of 98.9% among all. BayesNet and Random Forest model have average accuracy rate of 96.7% and 98.2% correspondingly with lowest MBT of 0.09 s.
MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers in Acute Promyelocytic Leukaemia
Authors: Ismail Imilia , Sulong Sarina , Hassan Rosline
Published: December 2014

Acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) is an M3 subtype of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). This classification is based on the morphology of promyelocytic cell. The clinical characteristics of APL can be recognized by haemorrhagic episodes, a differentiation block at the promyelocytic stage, and sensitivity to the differentiation response to all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA). Cytogenetically, APL is characterized by a balanced reciprocal translocation between chromosomes 15 and 17, which results in the production of PML/RARα fusion protein. Recent studies reported that microRNAs (miRNAs) have also been proposed to contribute to the pathogenesis of APL. miRNAs have been associated with the pathogenesis of cancer and their involvement as oncogenic and tumour suppressor activities have been identified. They are involved in various biological processes including the cell proliferation, differentiation, growth and development, metabolism, apoptosis, and haematopoiesis. The new discovery of miRNAs as possible therapeutic markers will provide new insight for the diagnosis and therapeutic entries for the treatment of APL. This review highlights the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers in APL.
Heliox Improves Carbon Dioxide Removal during Lung Protective Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Beurskens Charlotte J. , Brevoord Daniel , Lagrand Wim K. , van den Bergh Walter M. , Vroom Margreeth B. , Preckel Benedikt , Horn Janneke , Juffermans Nicole P.
Published: December 2014

Introduction. Helium is a noble gas with low density and increased carbon dioxide (CO2) diffusion capacity. This allows lower driving pressures in mechanical ventilation and increased CO2diffusion. We hypothesized that heliox facilitates ventilation in patients during lung-protective mechanical ventilation using low tidal volumes.Methods. This is an observational cohort substudy of a single arm intervention study. Twenty-four ICU patients were included, who were admitted after a cardiac arrest and mechanically ventilated for 3 hours with heliox (50% helium; 50% oxygen). A fixed protective ventilation protocol (6 mL/kg) was used, with prospective observation for changes in lung mechanics and gas exchange. Statistics was by Bonferroni post-hoc correction with statistical significance set atP<0.017.Results. During heliox ventilation, respiratory rate decreased (25±4versus23±5breaths min−1,P=0.010). Minute volume ventilation showed a trend to decrease compared to baseline (11.1±1.9versus9.9±2.1 L min−1,P=0.026), while reducing PaCO2levels (5.0±0.6versus4.5±0.6 kPa,P=0.011) and peak pressures (21.1±3.3versus19.8±3.2 cm H2O,P=0.024).Conclusions. Heliox improved CO2elimination while allowing reduced minute volume ventilation in adult patients during protective mechanical ventilation.