bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed suppression shapes disparity selective responses in monkey V1
Authors: Tanabe Seiji , Cumming Bruce G.
Published: February 2014

The stereo correspondence problem poses a challenge to visual neurons because localized receptive fields potentially cause false responses. Neurons in the primary visual cortex (V1) partially resolve this problem by combining excitatory and suppressive responses to encode binocular disparity. We explored the time course of this combination in awake, monkey V1 neurons using subspace mapping of receptive fields. The stimulus was a binocular noise pattern constructed from discrete spatial frequency components. We forward correlated the firing of the V1 neuron with the occurrence of binocular presentations of each spatial frequency component. The forward correlation yielded a complete set of response time courses to every combination of spatial frequency and interocular phase difference. Some combinations produced suppressive responses. Typically, if an interocular phase difference for a given spatial frequency produced strong excitation, we saw suppression in response to the opposite interocular phase difference at lower spatial frequencies. The suppression was delayed relative to the excitation, with a median difference in latency of 7 ms. We found that the suppressive mechanism explains a well-known mismatch of monocular and binocular signals. The suppressive components increased power at low spatial frequencies in disparity tuning, whereas they reduced the monocular response to low spatial frequencies. This long-recognized mismatch of binocular and monocular signals reflects a suppressive mechanism that helps reduce the response to false matches.
Selectivity for space and time in early areas of the auditory dorsal stream in the rhesus monkey
Authors: Kuśmierek Paweł , Rauschecker Josef P.
Published: February 2014

The respective roles of ventral and dorsal cortical processing streams are still under discussion in both vision and audition. We characterized neural responses in the caudal auditory belt cortex, an early dorsal stream region of the macaque. We found fast neural responses with elevated temporal precision as well as neurons selective to sound location. These populations were partly segregated: Neurons in a caudomedial area more precisely followed temporal stimulus structure but were less selective to spatial location. Response latencies in this area were even shorter than in primary auditory cortex. Neurons in a caudolateral area showed higher selectivity for sound source azimuth and elevation, but responses were slower and matching to temporal sound structure was poorer. In contrast to the primary area and other regions studied previously, latencies in the caudal belt neurons were not negatively correlated with best frequency. Our results suggest that two functional substreams may exist within the auditory dorsal stream.
On theL1Stability to a Generalized Degasperis-Procesi Equation
Authors: Yan Haibo , Yong Ls , Hu Hanlei
Published: February 2014

A nonlinear generalized Degasperis-Procesi equation is investigated. Assuming that the strong solution of the equation is bounded in the sense ofL∞R-norm and the initial data belong to the spaceL1(R)∩L2(R), we prove that the solutions are stable in the spaceL1(R).
Fault Tolerant Mobile Sensor Node Traversal Schemes Based on Hexagonal Coverage
Authors: Santoshi Ganala , D’Souza R. J.
Published: February 2014

Mobile sensor nodes (MSNs) are equipped with locomotive can move around after having been deployed. They are equipped with limited energy. A large portion of energy is drained during the traversal. In order to extend the life time of a MSN, the traveling distance must be minimized. Region of interest (ROI) is covered with multiple MSNs using coverage based pattern movement. When a group of MSNs are deployed to cover a given ROI, all the deployed MSNs should travel an approximately equal distance. Otherwise, the MSN which travels longer distance depletes more energy compared to the MSN which travels a shorter distance. In this work we show that, ROI partition plays great role in hole free coverage and makes the MSNs have optimized movement cost with fault tolerant support.
Complications following Treatment of Trochanteric Fractures with the Gamma3 Nail: Is the Latest Version of Gamma Nail Superior to Its Predecessor?
Authors: Georgiannos Dimitrios , Lampridis Vasilios , Bisbinas Ilias
Published: February 2014

Gamma nail is a cephalomedullary implant that was developed for the treatment of pertrochanteric hip fractures and has been successfully used for over 20 years. During this period, modifications of design and instrumentation have occurred to combat the intra- and postoperative complications that were associated with the use of early designs. The purpose of this study was to compare the complications observed with the use of the Gamma3 nail (G3N) with those seen following use of the previous trochanteric gamma nail (TGN). This study prospectively recorded the intra- and postoperative complications of 175 patients treated with the Gamma3 nail and compared them with those of a historical cohort of 192 patients treated with the trochanteric gamma nail. We encountered less intra- and postoperative complications with the use of Gamma3 nail. Femoral fractures and lag screw cutout were significantly lower. The reoperation rate was significantly higher in the TGN group. Gamma3 nail has proved to be a safe and efficient implant for the treatment of pertrochanteric fractures. The improvement of the biomechanical characteristics has led to a significant decrease in complication rates, demonstrating superiority over its predecessor.
Orientation of 2,6-Dicarbethoxy-3,5-bis(pyridine-3-yl)tetrahydro-1,4-thiazine-1,1-dioxide on Silver Nanoparticles: Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectral Studies
Authors: Anuratha M. , Jawahar A. , Umadevi M. , Edayadulla N. , Sathe V. G. , Meenakumari V. , Milton Franklin Benial A.
Published: February 2014

Silver nanoparticles were synthesized using solution combustion method with citric acid as fuel. The prepared silver nanoparticles exhibit fcc crystalline structure with particle size of ~50 nm. The morphology and purity of the silver nanoparticles were also studied by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra of 2,6-dicarbethoxy-3,5-bis(pyridine-3-yl)tetrahydro-1,4-thiazine-1,1-dioxide (DBTD) adsorbed on silver nanoparticles were investigated. Orientation of DBTD on silver nanoparticles has been inferred from normal Raman spectrum (nRs) and SERS spectral feature. The observed spectral feature evidenced that DBTD would adsorb on silver surface with tilted orientation through the lone pair electrons of C–N, C=O, S=O, and pyridine ring. The present investigation has been a model system to deduce the interaction of drugs with DNA.
Modeling Relief Demands in an Emergency Supply Chain System under Large-Scale Disasters Based on a Queuing Network
Authors: He Xinhua , Hu Wenfa
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a multiple-rescue model for an emergency supply chain system under uncertainties in large-scale affected area of disasters. The proposed methodology takes into consideration that the rescue demands caused by a large-scale disaster are scattered in several locations; the servers are arranged in multiple echelons (resource depots, distribution centers, and rescue center sites) located in different places but are coordinated within one emergency supply chain system; depending on the types of rescue demands, one or more distinct servers dispatch emergency resources in different vehicle routes, and emergency rescue services queue in multiple rescue-demand locations. This emergency system is modeled as a minimal queuing response time model of location and allocation. A solution to this complex mathematical problem is developed based on genetic algorithm. Finally, a case study of an emergency supply chain system operating in Shanghai is discussed. The results demonstrate the robustness and applicability of the proposed model.
Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation for Bilateral Greater Occipital Neuralgia
Authors: Vu Tiffany , Chhatre Akhil
Published: February 2014

This report describes a case of bilateral greater occipital neuralgia treated with cooled radiofrequency ablation. The case is considered in relation to a review of greater occipital neuralgia, continuous thermal and pulsed radiofrequency ablation, and current medical literature on cooled radiofrequency ablation. In this case, a 35-year-old female with a 2.5-year history of chronic suboccipital bilateral headaches, described as constant, burning, and pulsating pain that started at the suboccipital region and radiated into her vertex. She was diagnosed with bilateral greater occipital neuralgia. She underwent cooled radiofrequency ablation of bilateral greater occipital nerves with minimal side effects and 75% pain reduction. Cooled radiofrequency ablation of the greater occipital nerve in challenging cases is an alternative to pulsed and continuous RFA to alleviate pain with less side effects and potential for long-term efficacy.
Fixed Point Theory inα-Complete Metric Spaces with Applications
Authors: Hussain N. , Kutbi M. A. , Salimi P.
Published: February 2014

The aim of this paper is to introduce new concepts ofα-η-complete metric space andα-η-continuous function and establish fixed point results for modifiedα-η-ψ-rational contraction mappings inα-η-complete metric spaces. As an application, we derive some Suzuki type fixed point theorems and new fixed point theorems forψ-graphic-rational contractions. Moreover, some examples and an application to integral equations are given here to illustrate the usability of the obtained results.
Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair in a Patient with Mobile Aortic Thrombosis
Authors: Lohrmann Graham M. , Peters Ferande
Published: February 2014

A 58-year-old female presented with acute arterial insufficiency to her left leg. Following cardiovascular evaluation using multimodality imaging, it was discovered that she had mobile thoracic thrombi overlying a normal descending thoracic aorta which had also caused a splenic infarction. This patient was treated with unfractionated heparin for three days and underwent subsequent thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) uneventfully with no subsequent complications at one-year followup. This case highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in treating patients with this uncommon challenging clinical scenario.
A Novel Role for Raloxifene Nanomicelles in Management of Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Taurin Sebastien , Nehoff Hayley , van Aswegen Thalita , Rosengren Rhonda J. , Greish Khaled
Published: February 2014

Of patients with castrate resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), less than 25–33% survive more than five years. Recent studies have implicated estrogen, acting either alone or synergistically with androgens in the development of castrate resistant prostate cancer. Severalin vitroandin vivostudies, as well as a limited number of clinical trials, have highlighted the potential of selective estrogen receptor modulators, such as raloxifene (Ral) for the treatment of castrate resistant prostate cancer. However, the poor oral bioavailability and metabolism of selective estrogen receptor modulators limit their efficiency in clinical application. To overcome these limitations, we have used styrene co-maleic acid (SMA) micelle to encapsulate raloxifene. Compared to free drug, SMA-Ral micelles had 132 and 140% higher cytotoxicity against PC3 and DU 145 prostate cell lines, respectively. SMA-Ral effectively inhibits cell cycle progression, increases apoptosis, and alters the integrity of tumor spheroid models. In addition, the micellar system induced changes in expression and localization of estrogen receptors, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and downstream effectors associated with cell proliferation and survival. Finally, SMA-Ral treatment decreased migration and invasion of castrate resistant prostate cancer cell lines. In conclusion, SMA-Ral micelles can potentially benefit new strategies for clinical management of castrate resistant prostate cancer.
Comparison of Salivary TIMP-1 Levels in Periodontally Involved and Healthy Controls and the Response to Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy
Authors: Fenol Angel , Peter Maya Rajan , Perayil Jayachandran , Vyloppillil Rajesh , Bhaskar Anuradha
Published: February 2014

Background. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the supporting structures of the dentition. Periodontal destruction is an outcome of the imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs). We wanted to prove the hypothesis that salivary TIPM-1 level will vary in different people. A decrease in TIMP-1 level could make them more susceptible to periodontitis whereas a normal level could prevent increased tissue destruction thereby inhibiting the progression from gingivitis to periodontitis. This could probably pave the way for TIPM-1 to be a specific salivary biomarker and serve as a useful diagnostic and therapeutic tool in periodontitis.Methods. Whole unstimulated saliva of 2 ml was collected from twenty-five periodontally healthy and twenty-seven systemically healthy subjects with periodontitis. Clinical parameters recorded at baseline and reevaluated after four weeks in subjects with periodontitis following nonsurgical periodontal therapy were gingival index (GI), oral hygiene index-Simplified (OHI-S), probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level (CAL). Salivary TIMP-1 levels in both were analyzed using a commercially available ELISA kit.
A Semilocal Convergence for a Uniparametric Family of Efficient Secant-Like Methods
Authors: Argyros I. K. , González D. , Magreñán Á. A.
Published: February 2014

We present a semilocal convergence analysis for a uniparametric family of efficient secant-like methods (including the secant and Kurchatov method as special cases) in a Banach space setting (Ezquerro et al., 2000–2012). Using our idea of recurrent functions and tighter majorizing sequences, we provide convergence results under the same or less computational cost than the ones of Ezquerro et al., (2013, 2010, and 2012) and Hernández et al., (2000, 2005, and 2002) and with the following advantages: weaker sufficient convergence conditions, tighter error estimates on the distances involved, and at least as precise information on the location of the solution. Numerical examples validating our theoretical results are also provided in this study.
Variability of the Transferrin Receptor 2 Gene in AMD
Authors: Wysokinski Daniel , Blasiak Janusz , Dorecka Mariola , Kowalska Marta , Robaszkiewicz Jacek , Pawlowska Elzbieta , Szaflik Jerzy , Szaflik Jacek Pawel
Published: February 2014

Oxidative stress is a major factor in the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Iron may catalyze the Fenton reaction resulting in overproduction of reactive oxygen species. Transferrin receptor 2 plays a critical role in iron homeostasis and variability in its gene may influence oxidative stress and AMD occurrence. To verify this hypothesis we assessed the association between polymorphisms of theTFR2gene and AMD. A total of 493 AMD patients and 171 matched controls were genotyped for the two polymorphisms of theTFR2gene: c.1892C>T (rs2075674) and c.−258+123T>C (rs4434553). We also assessed the modulation of some AMD risk factors by these polymorphisms. The CC and TT genotypes of the c.1892C>T were associated with AMD occurrence but the latter only in obese patients. The other polymorphism was not associated with AMD occurrence, but the CC genotype was correlated with an increasing AMD frequency in subjects withBMI<26. The TT genotype and the T allele of this polymorphism decreased AMD occurrence in subjects above 72 years, whereas the TC genotype and the C allele increased occurrence of AMD in this group. The c.1892C>T and c.−258+123T>C polymorphisms of theTRF2gene may be associated with AMD occurrence, either directly or by modulation of risk factors.
Enhancement of Esterification of Propionic Acid with Isopropyl Alcohol by Pervaporation Reactor
Authors: Rathod Ajit P. , Wasewar Kailas L. , Yoo Chang Kyoo
Published: February 2014

With increasing cost of raw materials and energy, there is an increasing inclination of chemical process industries toward new processes that result in lesser waste generation, greater efficiency, and substantial yield of the desired products. Esterification is a chemical reaction in which two reactants carboxylic acid and alcohol react to form an ester and water. This reaction is a reversible reaction and the equilibrium conversion can be altered by varying the process parameters. Pervaporation reactor can enhance the conversion by shifting the equilibrium of reversible esterification reactions. Polyvinyl alcohol-polyether sulfone composite hydrophilic membrane was used for pervaporation-assisted esterification of propionic acid with isopropyl alcohol. The experiments were carried out in the presence of sulphuric acid as a catalyst at 50°C to 80°C with various reactants ratios. The esterification was carried out for catalyst loadings of 0.089 kmol/m3to 0.447 kmol/m3. The molar ratios of isopropyl to propionic acid used for the experiment were 1 to 1.5. Maximum conversion was obtained for the ratio of 1.4. Also effect of other parameters such as process temperature and catalyst concentration was discussed. It was found that the use of pervaporation reactor increased the conversion of the propionic acid considerably.
Health Communication Cards as a Tool for Behaviour Change
Authors: Matteson Carrie L. , Merth Thomas D. N. , Finegood Diane T.
Published: February 2014

Individuals seeking healthcare treatment in the context of obesity often experience difficulty engaging in discussions around their health and face challenges finding consensus with practitioners on care plans that best suit their lives. The complex set of biological, social, and environmental variables that have contributed to the higher prevalence of obesity are well illustrated in the foresight obesity system map. Effectively understanding and addressing key variables for each individual has proven to be difficult, with clinicians facing barriers and limited resources to help address patients’ unique needs. However, productive discussions inspired by patient centered care may be particularly effective in promoting behaviour change. Tools based on systems science that facilitate patient centered care and help identify behaviour change priorities have not been developed to help treat adult obesity. This project created and pilot tested a card based clinical communication tool designed to help facilitate conversations with individuals engaged in health behaviour change. The health communication cards were designed to help direct conversation between patients and healthcare providers toward issues relevant to the individual. Use of the cards to facilitate patient driven conversations in clinical care may help to streamline conversations, set realistic care plan goals, and improve long term rates of compliance.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Hand Hygiene among Medical and Nursing Students at a Tertiary Health Care Centre in Raichur, India
Authors: Nair Sreejith Sasidharan , Hanumantappa Ramesh , Hiremath Shashidhar Gurushantswamy , Siraj Mohammed Asaduddin , Raghunath Pooja
Published: February 2014

Background. Hand hygiene is recognized as the leading measure to prevent cross-transmission of microorganisms. Regarding hospital acquired infections, the compliance of nurses with hand washing guidelines seems to be vital in preventing the disease transmission among patients. There is a paucity of studies exploring this subject in Asia. Especially medical and nursing student’s knowledge of standard hand hygiene precautions is rarely compared. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 98 medical and 46 nursing students in a tertiary medical college in India. Knowledge was assessed using WHO hand hygiene questionnaire. Attitude and practices were evaluated by using another self-structured questionnaire. Z test was used to compare the percentage of correct responses between medical and nursing students. A P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results. Only 9% of participants (13 out of 144) had good knowledge regarding hand hygiene. Nursing students knowledge (P=0.023) , attitude (P=0.023), and practices (P<0.05) were significantly better than medical students.
Effect of Terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy at Environmental Concentrations on Early Life Stages of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpioL.)
Authors: Velisek Josef , Stara Alzbeta , Koutnik Dalibor , Machova Jana
Published: February 2014

The aim of the study was to investigate effects of the triazine’s herbicide terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy on early life stage of common carp (Cyprinus carpioL.) through antioxidant indices, mortality, growth, development, and histopathology. Based on accumulated mortality in the experimental groups, lethal concentrations of terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy were estimated at 35-day LC50 = 10.9 mg/L terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy. By day 15, fish were exposed to 3.5 mg/L and by day 26, fish were exposed to 0.0029 mg/L; real environmental concentration in Czech rivers, 0.07 mg/L, 1.4 mg/L, and 3.5 mg/L terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy, showed significantly lower mass and total length compared with controls. Based on inhibition of growth in the experimental groups, lowest observed effect concentration (LOEC) = 0.002 mg/L terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy and no observed effect concentration (NOEC) = 0.0001 mg/L terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy. No significant negative effects on hatching or embryo viability were demonstrated at the concentrations tested, but significant differences in early ontogeny among groups were noted. Fish from the two highest tested concentrations showed a dose-related delay in development compared with the controls. Total superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was significant lower in all groups testedly for terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy compared with the control group. At concentrations of 1.4 and 3.5 mg/L damage to caudal kidney tubules when compared to control fish was found.
Tumour Markers and Kidney Function: A Systematic Review
Authors: Coppolino Giuseppe , Bolignano Davide , Rivoli Laura , Mazza Giuseppe , Presta Piera , Fuiano Giorgio
Published: February 2014

Tumour markers represent useful tools in diagnosis and clinical management of patients with cancer, because they are easy to use, minimally invasive, and easily measured in either blood or urine. Unfortunately, such an ideal marker, as yet, does not exist. Different pathological states may increase the level of a tumour marker in the absence of any neoplasia. Alternatively, low levels of tumour markers could be also found in the presence of neoplasias. We aimed at reviewing studies currently available in the literature examining the association between tumour markers and different renal impairment conditions. Each tumour marker was found to be differently influenced by these criteria; additionally we revealed in many cases a lack of available published data.
Determining Infiltration Rates and Predicting Building Occupancy Using CO2Concentration Curves
Authors: Parsons P.
Published: February 2014

Demand controlled ventilation (DCV) reduces energy loss by reducing the air exchange flow rate to the minimum required to maintain acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ). DCV commonly uses carbon dioxide (CO2) as a proxy for human activity and increases the ventilation rate once a preset CO2threshold is exceeded. Significant improvements over threshold based ODV strategies are possible if the natural infiltration rate of the building is measured and the occupancy schedule determined by analysing the CO2concentration continuously. These calculated parameters allow mathematical modeling of the ventilated space and the determination of future CO2concentrations and allow prediction of future ventilation demands. The natural infiltration rate and the onset and duration of vacancy periods in a residential dwelling were determined by analysing CO2concentration data. Concentration declines which fit an exponential decay curve with a correlation coefficient >0.90 identified all vacancy periods. The measured natural infiltration rate was found statistically correlated with average wind speed. A dynamic predicted occupancy map was constructed that has the potential to facilitate significant energy savings via deferred ventilation and intelligent cooling and heating strategies.
Role of ROBO4 Signalling in Developmental and Pathological Angiogenesis
Authors: Yadav Suresh Singh , Narayan Gopeshwar
Published: February 2014

Transmembrane roundabout receptor family members (ROBO1–ROBO4) principally orchestrate the neuronal guidance mechanism of the nervous system. Secreted glycoprotein SLITs are the most appreciated ligands for ROBOs. Recently identified ROBO4 is the key mediator of SLIT-ROBO mediated developmental and pathological angiogenesis. Although SLIT2 has been shown to interact with ROBO4 as ligand, it remains an open question whether this protein is the physiologic partner of ROBO4. The purpose of this review is to summarise how reliable SLIT2 as ligand for ROBO4 is, if not what the other possible mechanisms demonstrated till date for ROBO4 mediated developmental and pathological angiogenesis are. We conclude that ROBO4 is expressed specially in vascular endothelial cells and maintains the vascular integrity via either SLIT2 dependent or SLIT2 independent manner. On the contrary, it promotes the pathological angiogenesis by involving different signalling arm(s)/unknown ligand(s). This review explores the interactions SLIT2/ROBO1, SLIT2/ROBO1–ROBO4, ROBO1/ROBO4, and ROBO4/UNC5B which can be promising and potential therapeutic targets for developmental angiogenesis defects and pathological angiogenesis. Finally we have reviewed the ROBO4 signalling pathways and made an effort to elaborate the insight of this signalling as therapeutic target of pathological angiogenesis.
Rectus Abdominis Muscle Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma Causing a Large Abdominal Wall Defect: Reconstruction with Biological Mesh
Authors: Falidas Evangelos , Gourgiotis Stavros , Goudeli Christina , Mathioulakis Stavros , Vlachos Konstantinos , Villias Constantinos
Published: February 2014

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) is a common soft tissue sarcoma usually involving limbs and retroperitoneum. MFH of the rectus abdominis muscle is extremely rare. Surgery in similar cases leads to large abdominal wall defects needing reconstruction. Biological and synthetic laminar absorbable prostheses are available for the repair of hernia defects in the abdominal wall. They share the important feature of being gradually degraded in the host, resulting the formation of a neotissue. We herein report the case of an 84-year-old man with MFH of the rectus abdominis muscle which was resected and the large abdominal wall defect was successfully repaired with a biological mesh.
Electroreduction of Copper Dichloride Powder to Copper Nanoparticles in an Ionic Liquid
Authors: Wu Tian , Huang Qing , Li Wei , Chen Gongxuan , Ma Xiaoling , Zeng Guoping
Published: February 2014

There were a large number of ionic liquids electrodeposition reported in the literature; but were still in the laboratory stage some problems in the practical application of electrodeposition remain such as easily reacted with moisture in the air (AlCl3 ionic liquid), high cost, and corrosive (dialkylimidazolium cation and , ionic liquid). In addition to the above shortcomings, low solubility of many metal salts in ionic liquids limits the practical application. In order to solve the problem of low solubility, [Bmim]Cl could be added [Bmim]PF6, which could significantly increase the solubility of metal chlorides; this method could be commonly used in preparing metal electrochemical reduction of metal chlorides. Our study showed that adding cationic groups in hydroxyl ionic liquid could cause the good solubility of transition metal chlorides, such as CuCl2. Complexation of hydroxyl functional group and transition metal ions increased solubility, resulting in a larger deposition current density and surface electrochemical reduction of copper nanoparticles deposited on the metal Ni. The electroreduction mechanism and behavior of CuCl2 in hydroxyl ionic liquid and the Cu nanoparticle formation mechanism were investigated based on a comparison between similar experiments in the ionic liquid.
Fuzzy Filtering Method for Color Videos Corrupted by Additive Noise
Authors: Ponomaryov Volodymyr I. , Montenegro-Monroy Hector , Nino-de-Rivera Luis , Castillejos Heydy
Published: February 2014

A novel method for the denoising of color videos corrupted by additive noise is presented in this paper. The proposed technique consists of three principal filtering steps: spatial, spatiotemporal, and spatial postprocessing. In contrast to other state-of-the-art algorithms, during the first spatial step, the eight gradient values in different directions for pixels located in the vicinity of a central pixel as well as the R, G, and B channel correlation between the analogous pixels in different color bands are taken into account. These gradient values give the information about the level of contamination then the designed fuzzy rules are used to preserve the image features (textures, edges, sharpness, chromatic properties, etc.). In the second step, two neighboring video frames are processed together. Possible local motions between neighboring frames are estimated using block matching procedure in eight directions to perform interframe filtering. In the final step, the edges and smoothed regions in a current frame are distinguished for final postprocessing filtering. Numerous simulation results confirm that this novel 3D fuzzy method performs better than other state-of-the-art techniques in terms of objective criteria (PSNR, MAE, NCD, and SSIM) as well as subjective perception via the human vision system in the different color videos.
Influence of the Type of Basal Insulin and Other Variables on Clinical Outcomes in Children with Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Garrison Ruth M. , Johnson Jeremy L. , Condren Michelle E. , Farmer Kevin C. , Jelley David H.
Published: February 2014

Background. Basal insulin detemir and glargine each have characteristics that may make them a superior choice in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes, but there is a paucity of data on glycemic results in this population. Objective. Examination of variables associated with achievement of HbA1c goal in children and adolescents with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes. Methods. The primary outcome, factors associated with achievement of HbA1c goal, was examined in a retrospective chart review. Variables, including type of basal insulin, were collected during the first year of diagnosis of patients in a pediatric diabetes clinic. Secondary outcomes included change in HbA1c, severe hypoglycemic events, and episodes of DKA. Results. 94 patients were included in the study. HbA1c at diagnosis was found to be a significant predictor of achievement of goal at 3 months (P=0.002) and of change in HbA1c at 3 and 12 months (P<0.001 for each). Severe hypoglycemia and episodes of DKA were uncommon. Conclusions. Choice of basal insulin was not found to be a predictor of achieving HbA1c goal or of change in HbA1c over the course of the first year of diagnosis with type 1 diabetes.
Effects of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Obstructive Sleep Apnea on Cognitive Functions: Evidence for a Common Nature
Authors: Andreou Georgia , Vlachos Filippos , Makanikas Konstantinos
Published: February 2014

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) show similar neurocognitive impairments. Effects are more apparent in severe cases, whereas in moderate and mild cases the effects are equivocal. The exact mechanism that causes cognitive dysfunctions in both diseases is still unknown and only suggestions have been made for each disease separately. The primary objective of this review is to present COPD and OSAS impact on cognitive functions. Secondly, it aims to examine the potential mechanisms by which COPD and OSAS can be linked and provide evidence for a common nature that affects cognitive functions in both diseases. Patients with COPD and OSAS compared to normal distribution show significant deficits in the cognitive abilities of attention, psychomotor speed, memory and learning, visuospatial and constructional abilities, executive skills, and language. The severity of these deficits in OSAS seems to correlate with the physiological events such as sleep defragmentation, apnea/hypopnea index, and hypoxemia, whereas cognitive impairments in COPD are associated with hypoventilation, hypoxemia, and hypercapnia. These factors as well as vascocerebral diseases and changes in systemic hemodynamic seem to act in an intermingling and synergistic way on the cause of cognitive dysfunctions in both diseases. However, low blood oxygen pressure seems to be the dominant factor that contributes to the presence of cognitive deficits in both COPD and OSAS.
The Influence of pH and Temperature on the Stability ofN-[(Piperidine)methylene]daunorubicin Hydrochloride and a Comparison of the Stability of Daunorubicin and Its Four New Amidine Derivatives in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Piekarski Mikołaj , Dołhań Agnieszka , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta , Zalewski Przemysław , Kycler Witold , Kaczmarek Aleksandra , Firlej Artur , Oszczapowicz Irena , Jelińska Anna
Published: February 2014

The influence of pH and temperature on the stability ofN-[(piperidine)methylene]daunorubicin hydrochloride (PPD) was investigated. Degradation was studied using an HPLC method. Specific acid-base catalysis of PPD involves hydrolysis of protonated molecules of PPD catalyzed by hydrogen ions and spontaneous hydrolysis under the influence of water zwitterions, unprotonated molecules, and monoanions of PPD. The thermodynamic parameters of these reactions, energy, enthalpy, and entropy, were calculated. Also, the stability of daunorubicin and its new amidine derivatives (piperidine, morpholine, pyrrolidine, and hexahydroazepin-1-yl) in aqueous solutions was compared and discussed.
Mineralogy, Geochemistry, and Origin of Buyukmahal Manganese Mineralization in the Artova Ophiolitic Complex, Yozgat, Turkey
Authors: Öksüz Nursel , Okuyucu Neslihan
Published: February 2014

The Artova ophiolite complex (AOC) is exposed along the northwestern and eastern margins of Yozgat area in Turkey. The Mn-deposit in the Buyukmahal area is part of this ophiolite complex. The deposit is in banded and lenticular forms and hosted by a radiolarite unit overlying the volcanics. Pyrolusite and magnetite are the main minerals of the manganese ore in the Buyukmahal (Yozgat) area. The gang minerals in the deposit are composed only of quartz and calcite. In this study, mineralogy, major oxide, trace element and REE contents of Buyukmahal manganese mineralization are evaluated. The geochemical data indicate that Buyukmahal mineralization does not originate from a pure hydrothermal or pure hydrogenous source but from a system consisting of both sources. It is also asserted that the mineralization was first developed on a sea floor spreading center within the Alpine Ophiolite System and then obducted as part of the AOC.
Multiobjective Optimization Based Vessel Collision Avoidance Strategy Optimization
Authors: Xu Qingyang , Zhang Chuang , Wang Ning
Published: February 2014

The vessel collision accidents cause a great loss of lives and property. In order to reduce the human fault and greatly improve the safety of marine traffic, collision avoidance strategy optimization is proposed to achieve this. In the paper, a multiobjective optimization algorithm NSGA‐II is adopted to search for the optimal collision avoidance strategy considering the safety as well as economy elements of collision avoidance. Ship domain and Arena are used to evaluate the collision risk in the simulation. Based on the optimization, an optimal rudder angle is recommended to navigator for collision avoidance. In the simulation example, a crossing encounter situation is simulated, and the NSGA‐II searches for the optimal collision avoidance operation under the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS). The simulation studies exhibit the validity of the method.
Splitting Groups with Basis Property
Authors: Aljouiee Abdullah
Published: February 2014

A finite group G is called splitting or splittable if it is a union of some collections of its proper subgroups intersecting pairwise at the identity. A special kind of splitting is known to be normal splitting. Also, a group G is said to have the basis property if, for each subgroup H≤G, H has a basis (minimal generating set), and any two bases have the same cardinality. In this work, I discuss a relation between classes of finite groups that possess both normal splitting and the basis property. This paper shows mainly that any non-p-group with basis property is normal splitting. However, the converse is not true in general. A counterexample is given. It is well known that any p-group has basis property. I demonstrate some types of p-groups which are splitting as well.
What Is the Best Proximal Anastomosis for the Free Right Internal Thoracic Artery during Bilateral Internal Thoracic Artery Revascularization? A Prospective, Randomized Study
Authors: Neragi-Miandoab S. , Michler R. E. , Lalezarzadeh F. , Bello R. , DeRose J. J.
Published: February 2014

Objective. Bilateral internal thoracic artery (BITA) grafting provides improved graft patency and potential survival advantage in selected patients as compared to single left internal thoracic artery (LITA) revascularization. The ideal functional BITA configuration remains controversial.Methods. Patients undergoing planned BITA revascularization with greater than 75% stenosis in both the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and in a circumflex branch were prospectively randomized to one of two proximal free right internal thoracic artery (RITA) connections directly off the aorta (Ao) (n=12) or as a “t” graft off the LITA (t) (n=12). The LITA was placed to the LAD in all cases, and the RITA was placed to a single lateral wall vessel. Intraoperative transit time flow measurements of all arterial grafts were performed, and RITA fractional flow parameters were compared between the 2 groups.Results. There were no differences in preoperative patient variables between the two groups. Cross-clamp times (91.5+15.3versus68.0+12.5minutes,P<0.01) and total cardiopulmonary bypass times (109.0+16.2versus85.0+15.1minutes,P<0.01) were shorter in the t group. The Ao group demonstrated significantly higher mean RITA flow (38.3±13.5versus22.1±9.5,P<0.01), mean RITA conductance (flow/mean arterial pressure) (0.45±0.16versus0.28±0.11,P<0.01), RITA fractional flow (0.52 ± 0.15versus0.36 ± 0.11,P<0.01), and RITA fractional conductance (0.51 ± 0.15versus0.36 ± 0.11,P<0.01) than the “t” grafted patients. Thirty-day mortality and wound infection were 0% for each group. Over an average of42.8+6.6months of followup there were no mortalities in either group. Repeat angiography were performed in 4 patients (33%) in the Ao group and 2 patients in the t group (16%). One occluded RITA graft and one ostial RITA stenosis were detected in the Ao group.Conclusions. Acute flow measurements indicate that the free RITA anastomosed to the aorta provides more acute fractional RITA flow than composite “t” grafting to the LITA. Longer-term angiographic and clinical followup are necessary to determine the consequences of these acute hemodynamic findings.
Wavelets Convergence and Unconditional Bases for Lp(ℝn) and H1(ℝn)
Authors: Kumar Devendra
Published: February 2014

We prove that reasonable nice wavelets form unconditional bases in function space other than L2(ℝn, X). Moreover, characterization of convergence of wavelets series in Lp(ℝn, X) space and Hardy space H1(ℝn,X) has been obtained. Here, X is a Banach space with boundedness of Riesz transform.
Effect of a 12-Month Exercise Intervention on Serum Biomarkers of Angiogenesis in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Duggan Catherine , Xiao Liren , Wang Ching-Yun , McTiernan Anne
Published: February 2014

Background: Increased physical activity is associated with decreased risk of several types of cancer, but underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Angiogenesis, in which new blood vessels are formed, is common to adipose tissue formation/remodeling and tumor vascularization.

Methods: We examined effects of a 12-month 45 minutes/day, 5 days/week moderate-intensity aerobic exercise intervention on four serum markers of angiogenesis in 173 sedentary, overweight, postmenopausal women, 50 to 75 years, randomized to intervention versus stretching control. Circulating levels of positive regulators of angiogenesis [VEGF, osteopontin (OPN), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1)], and the negative regulator pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), were measured by immunoassay at baseline and 12 months. Changes were compared using generalized estimating equations, adjusting for baseline levels of analytes and body mass index (BMI).

Results: VEGF, OPN, or PAI-1 levels did not differ by intervention arm. Participants randomized to exercise significantly reduced PEDF (−3.7%) versus controls (+3.0%; P = 0.009). Reductions in fat mass were significantly associated with reductions in PAI-1 (Ptrend = 0.03; Ptrend = 0.02) and PEDF (Ptrend = 0.002; Ptrend = 0.01) compared with controls, or to those who gained any fat mass respectively. There was a significant association between decreases in VO2max, and increased reductions in PEDF (Ptrend = 0.03), compared with participants who increased their level of fitness.

Conclusions: Fat loss reduces circulating PAI-1 and PEDF. Changes in VO2max are associated with alterations in PEDF, but these associations are complex.

Impact: Unexpected reductions in PEDF with decreasing fat mass, and with decreasing VO2max, warrant further study, including examining the effects of different types and intensities of exercise; and role of dietary weight-loss with and without exercise. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(4); 648–57. ©2014 AACR.
Temozolomide Does Not Impair Gene Therapy-Mediated Antitumor Immunity in Syngeneic Brain Tumor Models
Authors: Candolfi Marianela , Yagiz Kader , Wibowo Mia , Ahlzadeh Gabrielle E. , Puntel Mariana , Ghiasi Homayon , Kamran Neha , Paran Christopher , Lowenstein Pedro R. , Castro Maria G.
Published: February 2014

Purpose: Glioblastoma multiforme is the most common primary brain cancer in adults. Chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ) significantly prolongs the survival of patients with glioblastoma multiforme. However, the three-year survival is still approximately 5%. Herein, we combined intratumoral administration of an adenoviral vector expressing Flt3L (Ad-Flt3L) with systemic temozolomide to assess its impact on therapeutic efficacy.

Experimental Design: Wild-type or immunodeficient mice bearing intracranial glioblastoma multiforme or metastatic melanoma were treated with an intratumoral injection of Ad-Flt3L alone or in combination with the conditionally cytotoxic enzyme thymidine kinase (Ad-TK), followed by systemic administration of ganciclovir and temozolomide. We monitored survival and measured the tumor-infiltrating immune cells.

Results: Although treatment with temozolomide alone led to a small improvement in median survival, when used in combination with gene therapy-mediated immunotherapy, it significantly increased the survival of tumor-bearing mice. The antitumor effect was further enhanced by concomitant intratumoral administration of Ad-TK, leading to 50% to 70% long-term survival in all tumor models. Although temozolomide reduced the content of T cells in the tumor, this did not affect the therapeutic efficacy. The antitumor effect of Ad-Flt3L+Ad-TK+TMZ required an intact immune system because the treatment failed when administered to knock out mice that lacked lymphocytes or dendritic cells.

Conclusions: Our results challenge the notion that chemotherapy leads to a state of immune-suppression which impairs the ability of the immune system to mount an effective antitumor response. Our work indicates that temozolomide does not inhibit antitumor immunity and supports its clinical implementation in combination with immune-mediated therapies. Clin Cancer Res; 20(6); 1555–65. ©2014 AACR.
Evaluation of Progression Markers in the Premotor Phase of Parkinson's Disease: The Progression Markers in the Premotor Phase Study
Authors: Liepelt-Scarfone Inga , Gauss Katharina , Maetzler Walter , Müller Katharina , Bormann Christian , Fruhmann Berger Monika , Timmers Maarten , Streffer Johannes , Berg Daniela
Published: February 2014

Background: The clinical diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) is proposed to be too late for the application of beneficial neuroprotective treatment. Thus, it is important to identify and follow individuals at risk for PD in order to gain knowledge about the prodromal course of the disease. Substantia nigra hyperechogenicity (SN+) has been confirmed as a risk factor for PD and appears promising as a predictor of PD, particularly in combination with other putative PD markers. We present the design and initial data of a 2-year longitudinal investigation of subjects proposed to be at high risk of developing PD (HRPD), compared to early PD patients and control subjects. The aim of the presented study is to monitor progression of the neurodegenerative process to motor PD. Methods: In total, 40 HRPD, 16 PD and 41 control individuals were recruited. The HRPD subjects had SN+ and additionally either 1 cardinal PD motor sign or 2 further risk (e.g. positive family history) or prodromal markers (e.g. hyposmia). In this cohort, motor function, olfaction, mood and blood markers will be evaluated every 6 months, complemented by a comprehensive clinical, imaging and electrophysiological assessment. Results: PD, HRPD and control subjects did not differ significantly regarding age, but the HRPD group consisted mainly of males (72.5% of HRPD subjects vs. 43.9% of controls; p = 0.013). Mean disease duration in PD patients was 31 months (range 15-56). HRPD subjects were predominantly recruited according to the occurrence of slight motor signs (HRPD 77.5%, PD 100%, p = 0.05; controls 0%, HRPD vs. controls, p < 0.017). The Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale motor score (mean, range) indicated that the HRPD group (4, 0-12) had values between those of controls (0, 0-2; p < 0.017) and PD subjects (26, 9-55; p < 0.017). Among nonmotor symptoms, hyposmia was more common in both HRPD (47.5%) and PD subjects (75%) than in controls (5.1%; p < 0.017 for both comparisons). Conclusions: Here, we describe the recruitment of a highly enriched-risk cohort and a promising study design to assess progression to motor PD. Whether the HRPD group indeed suffers from early, PD-specific neurodegeneration remains to be verified in the ongoing follow-up examinations.
Risk Perception and Emotional Coping: A Pathway for Behavioural Addiction?
Authors: Rougemont-Bücking Ansgar , Grivel Jeremy
Published: February 2014

This article summarizes current concepts of the working memory with regard to its role within emotional coping strategies. In particular, it focuses on the fact that the limited capacity of the working memory to process now-relevant information can be turned into an advantage, when the individual is occupied by dealing with unpleasant emotion. Based on a phenomenon known as dual-task interference (DTI), this emotion can be chased by intense arousal due to clearly identifiable external stressors. Thus, risk perception might be used as a ‘DTI inductor' that allows avoidance of unpleasant emotion. Successful mastery of risk adds a highly relevant dopaminergic component to the overall experience. The resulting mechanism of implicit learning may contribute to the development of a behavioural addiction. Besides its putative effects in the development of a behavioural addiction, the use of DTI might be of a more general interest for the clinical practice, especially in the field of psychotherapy.