bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Working Characteristics of Variable Intake Valve in Compressed Air Engine
Authors: Yu Qihui , Shi Yan , Cai Maolin
Published: October 2014

A new camless compressed air engine is proposed, which can make the compressed air energy reasonably distributed. Through analysis of the camless compressed air engine, a mathematical model of the working processes was set up. Using the software MATLAB/Simulink for simulation, the pressure, temperature, and air mass of the cylinder were obtained. In order to verify the accuracy of the mathematical model, the experiments were conducted. Moreover, performance analysis was introduced to design compressed air engine. Results show that, firstly, the simulation results have good consistency with the experimental results. Secondly, under different intake pressures, the highest output power is obtained when the crank speed reaches 500 rpm, which also provides the maximum output torque. Finally, higher energy utilization efficiency can be obtained at the lower speed, intake pressure, and valve duration angle. This research can refer to the design of the camless valve of compressed air engine.
Sentinel Node Biopsy Alone versus Completion Axillary Node Dissection in Node Positive Breast Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ram Rachna , Singh Jasprit , McCaig Eddie
Published: October 2014

Introduction. There has been recent interest in validity of completion axillary node dissection after a positive sentinel node. This systematic review aims to ascertain if sentinel lymph node dissection alone was noninferior to axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer patients who have a positive sentinel node.Method. A systematic review of the electronic databases Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials was carried out. Only randomised trials that had patients with positive sentinel node as the study sample were included in the meta-analysis using the reported hazard ratios with a fixed effect model.Results. Three randomised controlled trials and five retrospective studies were identified. The pooled effect for overall survival was HR 0.94, 95% CI [0.79, 1.19], and for disease free survival was HR 0.83, 95% CI [0.60, 1.14]. The reported rates for locoregional recurrence were similar in both groups. The surgical morbidity was found to be significantly more in patients who had underwent axillary dissection.Conclusion. Amongst patients with micrometastasis in the sentinel node, no further axillary dissection is necessary. For patients with macrometastasis in the sentinel node, it is reasonable to consider omitting axillary dissection to avoid the morbidity of the procedure.
Chinese Medicines Induce Cell Death: The Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Wang Xuanbin , Feng Yibin , Wang Ning , Cheung Fan , Tan Hor Yue , Zhong Sen , Li Charlie , Kobayashi Seiichi
Published: October 2014

Chinese medicines have long history in treating cancer. With the growing scientific evidence of biomedical researches and clinical trials in cancer therapy, they are increasingly accepted as a complementary and alternative treatment. One of the mechanisms is to induce cancer cell death.Aim. To comprehensively review the publications concerning cancer cell death induced by Chinese medicines in recent years and provide insights on anticancer drug discovery from Chinese medicines.Materials and Methods. Chinese medicines (including Chinese medicinal herbs, animal parts, and minerals) were used in the study. The key words including “cancer”, “cell death”, “apoptosis”, “autophagy,” “necrosis,” and “Chinese medicine” were used in retrieval of related information from PubMed and other databases.Results. The cell death induced by Chinese medicines is described as apoptotic, autophagic, or necrotic cell death and other types with an emphasis on their mechanisms of anticancer action. The relationship among different types of cell death induced by Chinese medicines is critically reviewed and discussed.Conclusions. This review summarizes that CMs treatment could induce multiple pathways leading to cancer cell death, in which apoptosis is the dominant type. To apply these preclinical researches to clinic application will be a key issue in the future.
Wide-Field Fluorescein Angiography in Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Madhusudhan Savitha , Beare Nicholas
Published: October 2014

Purpose. The aim of our study was to investigate if peripheral retinal ischaemia contributed to the pathogenesis of neovascular AMD (NvAMD), using wide-field fluorescein angiography (WFFA).Methods. This prospective study included 30 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed NvAMD in the index eye. Wide-field colour fundus images and fluorescein angiograms were obtained using P200C optomap FA and analysed using a grid with three concentric circles of 50°, 100°, and 200° centred on the fovea to define zones Z1, Z2, and Z3.Results. Areas of peripheral retinal nonperfusion were seen in 2 (7%) eyes, peripheral vascular leakage in 5 (17%) eyes, and diffuse dye leakage close to the ora in 5 (17%) eyes. A total of one-third of the study eyes showed changes on WFFA in Z2 and Z3. On comparing index eyes to nonindex eyes in these patients, the presence of NvAMD was associated with peripheral FA changes (P=0.009, Fisher’s test).Conclusion. Frank peripheral retinal non-perfusion does not appear to be associated with NvAMD. In some patients with active NvAMD there is degradation of the peripheral blood-retina barrier. Smoking was also found to be associated with the above-mentioned abnormalities.
Fixed Points ofα-Admissible Mappings on Partial Metric Spaces
Authors: Erhan İncı M.
Published: October 2014

In this paper, a general class ofα-admissible contractions on partial metric spaces is introduced. Fixed point theorems for these contractions on partial metric spaces and their consequences are stated and proved. Illustrative example is presented.
Assessment of Serum Acylated Ghrelin in Children and Adolescents with Chronic Liver Diseases: Relation to Nutritional Status
Authors: Elkabbany Z. A. , Hamza R. T. , Mahmoud N. H.
Published: October 2014

Because ghrelin is one of the key hormones in regulating feeding behavior and caloric status, it was suggested that ghrelin behavior might be closely associated with malnutrition state of patients with chronic liver disease (CLD). Thus, we aimed to assess serum ghrelin levels in children with CLD and its relation to anthropometric parameters and severity of CLD. Forty CLD patients were studied in comparison to 40 controls. All subjects were subjected to history, anthropometric, and laboratory assessment of liver functions and serum acylated ghrelin. Ghrelin was higher in patients than controls being higher with progress of Child’s grade and with deterioration of liver functions. Hyperghrelinemia was detected in 62.5% of cases. Ghrelin correlated negatively with body mass index standard deviation score (BMISDS (r=-0.95,P<0.001)), triceps skin fold thickness (TSFT (r=-0.88,P<0.001)), and subscapular skin fold thickness (SSFT (r=0.83,P<0.001)) percentiles. In conclusion, hyperghrelinemia may represent a compensatory mechanism trying to overcome malnutrition state complicating CLD and can be used as a parameter for early detection and assessment of the severity of malnutrition in children with CLD.
Surrogate Assisted Design Optimization of an Air Turbine
Authors: Badhurshah Rameez , Samad Abdus
Published: October 2014

Surrogates are cheaper to evaluate and assist in designing systems with lesser time. On the other hand, the surrogates are problem dependent and they need evaluation for each problem to find a suitable surrogate. The Kriging variants such as ordinary, universal, and blind along with commonly used response surface approximation (RSA) model were used in the present problem, to optimize the performance of an air impulse turbine used for ocean wave energy harvesting by CFD analysis. A three-level full factorial design was employed to find sample points in the design space for two design variables. A Reynolds-averaged Navier Stokes solver was used to evaluate the objective function responses, and these responses along with the design variables were used to construct the Kriging variants and RSA functions. A hybrid genetic algorithm was used to find the optimal point in the design space. It was found that the best optimal design was produced by the universal Kriging while the blind Kriging produced the worst. The present approach is suggested for renewable energy application.
Dynamics Analysis of a Viral Infection Model with a General Standard Incidence Rate
Authors: Ji Yu , Zheng Muxuan
Published: October 2014

The basic viral infection models, proposed by Nowak et al. and Perelson et al., respectively, have been widely used to describe viral infection such as HBV and HIV infection. However, the basic reproduction numbers of the two models are proportional to the number of total cells of the host's organ prior to the infection, which seems not to be reasonable. In this paper, we formulate an amended model with a general standard incidence rate. The basic reproduction number of the amended model is independent of total cells of the host’s organ. When the basic reproduction numberR0<1, the infection-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable and the virus is cleared. Moreover, ifR0>1, then the endemic equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable and the virus persists in the host.
An Application of Fixed Point Theory to a Nonlinear Differential Equation
Authors: Farajzadeh A. P. , Kaewcharoen A. , Plubtieng S.
Published: October 2014

We introduce a new family of mappings on[0,+∞)by relaxing the nondecreasing condition on the mappings and by using the properties of this new family we present some fixed point theorems forα-ψ-contractive-type mappings in the setting of complete metric spaces. By applying our obtained results, we also assure the fixed point theorems in partially ordered complete metric spaces and as an application of the main results we provide an existence theorem for a nonlinear differential equation.
Spinal Anaesthesia with Hyperbaric Prilocaine in Day-Case Perianal Surgery: Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Kaban Ozden Gorgoz , Yazicioglu Dilek , Akkaya Taylan , Sayin M. Murat , Seker Duray , Gumus Haluk
Published: October 2014

Background. The local anaesthetics used in day-case spinal anaesthesia should provide short recovery times. We aimed to compare hyperbaric prilocaine and bupivacaine in terms of sensory block resolution and time to home readiness in day-case spinal anaesthesia.Methods. Fifty patients undergoing perianal surgery were randomized into two groups. The bupivacaine-fentanyl group (Group B) received 7.5 mg, 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine + 20 μg fentanyl in total 1.9 mL. The prilocaine-fentanyl group (Group P) received 30 mg, 0.5% hyperbaric prilocaine + 20 μg fentanyl in the same volume.Results. Time to L1 block and maximum block was shorter in Group P than in Group B (Group P4.6±1.3 min versus Group B5.9±01.9 min,P=0.017, and Group P13.2±7.5 min versus Group B15.3±6.6 min,P=0.04). The time to L1 regression and S3 regression of the sensorial block was significantly shorter in Group P than in Group B (45.7±21.9 min versus59.7±20.9 min,P=0.024, and133.8±41.4 min versus200.4±64.8 min,P<0.001). The mean time to home readiness was shorter for Group P than for Group B (155±100.2 min versus207.2±62.7 min(P<0.001)).Conclusion. Day-case spinal anaesthesia with hyperbaric prilocaine + fentanyl is superior to hyperbaric bupivacaine in terms of earlier sensory block resolution and home readiness and the surgical conditions are comparable for perianal surgery.
Isolation of Salt Stress-Related Genes fromAspergillus glaucusCCHA by Random Overexpression inEscherichia coli
Authors: Fang Jie , Han Xiaojiao , Xie Lihua , Liu Mingying , Qiao Guirong , Jiang Jing , Zhuo Renying
Published: October 2014

The halotolerant fungusAspergillus glaucusCCHA was isolated from the surface of wild vegetation around a saltern with the salinity range being 0–31%. Here, a full-length cDNA library ofA. glaucusunder salt stress was constructed to identify genes related to salt tolerance, and one hundred clones were randomly selected for sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. Among these, 82 putative sequences were functionally annotated as being involved in signal transduction, osmolyte synthesis and transport, or regulation of transcription. Subsequently, the cDNA library was transformed intoE. colicells to screen for putative salt stress-related clones. Five putative positive clones were obtained fromE. colicells grown on LB agar containing 1 M NaCl, on which they showed rapid growth compared to the empty vector control line. Analysis of transgenicArabidopsis thalianalines overexpressingCCHA-2142demonstrated that the gene conferred increased salt tolerance to plants as well by protecting the cellular membranes, suppressing the inhibition of chlorophyll biosynthesis. These results highlight the utility of thisA. glaucuscDNA library as a tool for isolating and characterizing genes related to salt tolerance. Furthermore, the identified genes can be used for the study of the underlying biology of halotolerance.
An Improved Chaos Genetic Algorithm for T-Shaped MIMO Radar Antenna Array Optimization
Authors: Fu Xin , Chen Xianzhong , Hou Qingwen , Wang Zhengpeng , Yin Yixin
Published: October 2014

In view of the fact that the traditional genetic algorithm easily falls into local optimum in the late iterations, an improved chaos genetic algorithm employed chaos theory and genetic algorithm is presented to optimize the low side-lobe for T-shaped MIMO radar antenna array. The novel two-dimension Cat chaotic map has been put forward to produce its initial population, improving the diversity of individuals. The improved Tent map is presented for groups of individuals of a generation with chaos disturbance. Improved chaotic genetic algorithm optimization model is established. The algorithm presented in this paper not only improved the search precision, but also avoids effectively the problem of local convergence and prematurity. For MIMO radar, the improved chaos genetic algorithm proposed in this paper obtains lower side-lobe level through optimizing the exciting current amplitude. Simulation results show that the algorithm is feasible and effective. Its performance is superior to the traditional genetic algorithm.
A Novel One-Pot and One-Step Microwave-Assisted Cyclization-Methylation Reaction of Amino Alcohols and Acetylated Derivatives with Dimethyl Carbonate and TBAC
Authors: Ochoa-Terán Adrián , Guerrero Leticia , Rivero Ignacio A.
Published: October 2014

A simple and efficient microwave-assisted methodology for the synthesis of 4-substituted-3-methyl-1,3-oxazolidin-2-ones from amino alcohols catalyzed by a ionic liquid was developed. This novel one-pot and one-step cyclization-methylation reaction represents an easier and faster method than any other reported protocols that can be used to obtain the desired products in good yields and high purity. Applying microwave irradiation at 130°C in the presence of TBAC, dimethyl carbonate acts simultaneously as carbonylating and methylating agent and surprisingly promotes anin situbasic trans esterification when aN-acetylated amino alcohol is used as starting material. Furthermore, dimethyl carbonate worked better than diethyl carbonate in performing this reaction.
A Stability-Indicating HPLC-DAD Method for Determination of Stiripentol: Development, Validation, Kinetics, Structure Elucidation and Application to Commercial Dosage Form
Authors: Darwish Hany W. , Abdelhameed Ali S. , Attia Mohamed I. , Bakheit Ahmed H. , Khalil Nasr Y. , Al-Majed Abdulrahman A.
Published: October 2014

A rapid, simple, sensitive, and accurate isocratic reversed-phase stability-indicating high performance liquid chromatography method has been developed and validated for the determination of stiripentol and its degradation product in its bulk form and pharmaceutical dosage form. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Symmetry C18 column and quantification was achieved using photodiode array detector (DAD). The method was validated in accordance with the ICH requirements showing specificity, linearity (r2=0.9996, range of 1–25 μg/mL), precision (relative standard deviation lower than 2%), accuracy (mean recovery100.08±1.73), limits of detection and quantitation (LOD = 0.024 and LOQ = 0.081 μg/mL), and robustness. Stiripentol was subjected to various stress conditions and it has shown marked stability under alkaline hydrolytic stress conditions, thermal, oxidative, and photolytic conditions. Stiripentol degraded only under acidic conditions, forming a single degradation product which was well resolved from the pure drug with significantly different retention time values. This degradation product was characterized by1H-NMR and13C-NMR spectroscopy as well as ion trap mass spectrometry. The results demonstrated that the method would have a great value when applied in quality control and stability studies for stiripentol.
Existence of Solutions for a Coupled System of Second and Fourth Order Elliptic Equations
Authors: Wang Fanglei
Published: October 2014

The generalized quasilinearization technique is applied to obtain a monotone sequence of iterates converging uniformly and quadratically to a solution of a coupled system of second and fourth order elliptic equations.
Existence of Nonradial Solutions for Hénon Type Biharmonic Equation Involving Critical Sobolev Exponents
Authors: Zhang Yajing , Wang Ningning , Lü Yinmei , Hao Jianghao
Published: October 2014

We prove the existence of nonradial solutions under some conditions for a semilinear biharmonic Dirichlet problem involving critical Sobolev exponents.
Convergence Axioms on Dislocated Symmetric Spaces
Authors: Sarma I. Ramabhadra , Rao J. Madhusudana , Kumari P. Sumati , Panthi D.
Published: October 2014

Dislocated symmetric spaces are introduced, and implications and nonimplications among various kinds of convergence axioms are derived.
Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with Total Alkaloids in Rubus aleaefolius Poir through Regulation of Fat Metabolism
Authors: Li Ying , Zhao Jinyan , Zheng Haiyin , Zhong Xiaoyong , Zhou Jianheng , Hong Zhenfeng
Published: October 2014

Total alkaloids in Rubus aleaefolius Poir (TARAP) is a folk medicinal herb that has been used clinically in China to treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) for many years. However, the mechanism of its anti‐NAFLD effect is largely unknown. In this study, we developed a NAFLD rat model by supplying a modified high‐fat diet (mHFD) ad libitum for 8 weeks and evaluated the therapeutic effect of TARAP in NAFLD rats as well as the underlying molecular mechanism. We found that TARAP could reduce the serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL‐C) levels and increase the serum high‐density lipoprotein (HDL‐C) level in NAFLD rats. In addition, TARAP treatment reduced expression of fatty acid synthetase (FAS), and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC) and upregulated the expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT). Our results suggest that regulation of lipid metabolism may be a mechanism by which TARAP treats NAFLD.
Laser Induced Modification of the Optical Properties of Nano-ZnO Doped PVC Films
Authors: Hamad Tagreed K. , Yusop Rahimi M. , Al-Taa’y Wasan A. , Abdullah Bashar , Yousif Emad
Published: October 2014

The effect of continuous CO2laser radiation on the optical properties of pure polyvinyl chloride and doped of ZnO nanoparticles with two different concentrations (10, 15%) has been investigated. All samples were prepared using casting method at room temperature. Optical properties (absorption, transmission, absorption coefficient, extinction coefficient, refractive index, and optical conductivity) of all films after CO2laser irradiated have been studied as a function of the wavelength in the range (200–800) nm for three energies (300, 400 and 500 mJ). It has been found that the transmission, energy gap, and refractive index increase with increasing laser energy. The values of absorption, Urbach energy, absorption coefficient, extinction coefficient, and optical conductivity were decreased.
New Distributional Global Solutions for the Hunter-Saxton Equation
Authors: Sarrico C. O. R.
Published: October 2014

In the setting of a distributional product, we consider a Riemann problem for the Hunter-Saxton equation[ut+((1/2)u2)x]x=(1/2)ux2in a convenient space of discontinuous functions. With the help of a consistent extension of the classical solution concept, two classes of discontinuous solutions are obtained: one class of conservative solutions and another of dispersive solutions. A necessary and sufficient condition for the propagation of a distributional profile as a travelling wave is also presented, which allows identifying an interesting set of explicit distributional travelling waves. In the paper, we will show some results we have obtained by applying this framework to other equations and systems.
Convolution Properties for Certain Classes of Analytic Functions Defined byq-Derivative Operator
Authors: Seoudy T. M. , Aouf M. K.
Published: October 2014

We investigate convolution properties and coefficients estimates for two classes of analytic functions involving theq-derivative operator defined in the open unit disc. Some of our results improve previously known results.
Boundary Value Problems of Potential Functions in Decagonal Quasicrystals
Authors: Li Wu , Xin Hao , Fan Tianyou
Published: October 2014

A unified form of potential functions in decagonal quasicrystals (QCs) and conformal mappings are applied in a novel way to solve the boundary value problems emanating from the generalized theory of elasticity for decagonal QCs. By executing the reduction of boundary value problem to function equations, two crack problems are investigated. In the first one, an approximate analysis for bending specimen with a crack is given. In the other, a finite width strip with single edge crack of decagonal QCs is analytically estimated. Using the basic idea underlying Dugdale’s crack model, the extent of cohesive force zone in each of the two cases is analytically derived.
Feeding Habits and Trophic Level of the Panama GruntPomadasys panamensis, an Important Bycatch Species from the Shrimp Trawl Fishery in the Gulf of California
Authors: Rodríguez-Preciado José A. , Amezcua Felipe , Bellgraph Brian , Madrid-Vera Juan
Published: October 2014

The Panama grunt is an abundant and commercially important species in the southeastern Gulf of California, but the research undertaken on this species is scarce despite its ecological and economic importance. We studied the feeding habits of Panama grunt through stomach content analyses as a first step towards understanding the biology of this species in the study area. Our results indicate that the Panama grunt is a benthic predator throughout its life cycle and feeds mainly on infaunal crustaceans. Diet differences among grunt were not found according to size, diet, or season. Shannon diversity index results indicate that Panama grunt has a limited trophic niche breadth with a diet dominated by a limited number of taxa as crustaceans. The estimated trophic level of this species is 3.59. Overall, the Panama grunt is a carnivorous fish occupying the intermediate levels of the trophic pyramid.
Dynamic Behaviors of a Discrete Lotka-Volterra Competition System with Infinite Delays and Single Feedback Control
Authors: Zhao Liang , Xie Xiangdong , Yang Liya , Chen Fengde
Published: October 2014

A nonautonomous discrete two-species Lotka-Volterra competition system with infinite delays and single feedback control is considered in this paper. By applying the discrete comparison theorem, a set of sufficient conditions which guarantee the permanence of the system is obtained. Also, by constructing some suitable discrete Lyapunov functionals, some sufficient conditions for the global attractivity and extinction of the system are obtained. It is shown that if the the discrete Lotka-Volterra competitive system with infinite delays and without feedback control is permanent, then, by choosing some suitable feedback control variable, the permanent species will be driven to extinction. That is, the feedback control variable, which represents the biological control or some harvesting procedure, is the unstable factor of the system. Such a finding overturns the previous scholars’ recognition on feedback control variables.
Stability Analysis of a Run-of-River Diversion Hydropower Plant with Surge Tank and Spillway in the Head Pond
Authors: Sarasúa José Ignacio , Elías Paz , Martínez-Lucas Guillermo , Pérez-Díaz Juan Ignacio , Wilhelmi José Román , Sánchez José Ángel
Published: October 2014

Run-of-river hydropower plants usually lack significant storage capacity; therefore, the more adequate control strategy would consist of keeping a constant water level at the intake pond in order to harness the maximum amount of energy from the river flow or to reduce the surface flooded in the head pond. In this paper, a standard PI control system of a run-of-river diversion hydropower plant with surge tank and a spillway in the head pond that evacuates part of the river flow plant is studied. A stability analysis based on the Routh-Hurwitz criterion is carried out and a practical criterion for tuning the gains of the PI controller is proposed. Conclusions about the head pond and surge tank areas are drawn from the stability analysis. Finally, this criterion is applied to a real hydropower plant in design state; the importance of considering the spillway dimensions and turbine characteristic curves for adequate tuning of the controller gains is highlighted.
Fixed Point Method to Analyze Differences between Hipparcos and ICRF2
Authors: Martínez Usó María José , Marco Castillo Francisco J. , López Ortí José Antonio
Published: October 2014

From 1998, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) adopted a new Celestial Reference System: the International Celestial Reference System (ICRS). The first optical materialization was the Hipparcos catalogue, defining the Hipparcos Celestial Reference Frame (HCRF). The compilation of subsequent radio sources catalogues culminated in the current representation of the ICRF, the ICRF2 catalogue that is not sufficiently dense to cover all astrometrical purposes. Linking Hipparcos and ICRF2 is essential to uniformize the reference regardless of whether it is visible (HCRF) or not (ICRF). Many working groups provide their own complementary catalogs, some of whose sources are also in the ICRF2, with different reduction processes for positions. The point is that they provide information in more than one reference for a small number of objects. Some of these projects have been used by us to study the Hipparcos-ICRF2 differences: a certain number of couples of catalogs can be interrelated using a set of parameters. With these couples, we build a closed cycle with the same ending and departure couple. The parameters obtained from each couple affect the next; thus we have an iterative process whose fixed point is the solution that stabilizes it, providing a preliminary link for Hipparcos-ICRF2.
Optimization of Process Parameters with Minimum Thrust Force and Torque in Drilling Operation Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Neseli Suleyman
Published: October 2014

This research outlines the Taguchi optimization methodology, which is applied to optimize cutting parameters in drilling of AISI 1040 steel. The drilling parameters evaluated are cutting speed, feed rate, and helix angle. Series of experiments are conducted to relate the cutting parameters on the thrust force and torque. L27(313) orthogonal array, signal-to-noise ratio is employed to analyze the influence of these parameters on thrust force and torque during drilling. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is used to study the effect of process parameters on machining process. The study shows that the Taguchi method is suitable to solve the stated problem with the minimum number of trials. The main objective is to find the important factors and combination of factors that influence the machining process to achieve low thrust force and torque. The analysis of the Taguchi method indicates that the feed rate is the most significant factor affecting the thrust force, while the cutting speed contributes the most to the torque.
Overweight and Obesity Epidemic in Developing Countries: A Problem with Diet, Physical Activity, or Socioeconomic Status?
Authors: Bhurosy Trishnee , Jeewon Rajesh
Published: October 2014

Obesity is a significant public health concern affecting more than half a billion people worldwide. Obesity rise is not only limited to developed countries, but to developing nations as well. This paper aims to compare the mean body mass index trends in the World Health Organisation- (WHO-) categorised regions since 1980 to 2008 and secondly to appraise how socioeconomic disparities can lead to differences in obesity and physical activity level across developing nations. Taking into account past and current BMI trends, it is anticipated that obesity will continue to take a significant ascent, as observed by the sharp increase from 1999 to 2008. Gender differences in BMI will continue to be as apparent, that is, women showing a higher BMI trend than men. In the coming years, the maximum mean BMI in more developed countries might be exceeded by those in less developed ones. Rather than focusing on obesity at the individual level, the immediate environment of the obese individual to broader socioeconomic contexts should be targeted. Most importantly, incentives at several organisational levels, the media, and educational institutions along with changes in food policies will need to be provided to low-income populations.
Hybrid Fibre Polylactide Acid Composite with Empty Fruit Bunch: Chopped Glass Strands
Authors: Tshai K. Y. , Chai A. B. , Kong I. , Hoque M. E. , Tshai K. H.
Published: October 2014

Hybrid polylactide acid (PLA) composites reinforced with palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) and chopped strand E-glass (GLS) fibres were investigated. The hybrid fibres PLA composite was prepared through solution casting followed by pelletisation and subsequent hot compression press into 1 mm thick specimen. Chloroform and dichloromethane were used as solvent and their effectiveness in dissolving PLA was reported. The overall fibre loading was kept constant at volume fraction, Vf, of 20% while the ratio of EFB to GLS fibre was varied between Vf of 0 : 20 to 20 : 0. The inclusion of GLS fibres improved the tensile and flexural performance of the hybrid composites, but increasing the glass fibre length from 3 to 6 mm has a negative effect on the mechanical properties of the hybrid composites. Moreover, the composites that were prepared using chloroform showed superior tensile and flexural properties compared to those prepared with dichloromethane.
The Impact of Umbilical Blood Flow Regulation on Fetal Development Differs in Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Pregnancy
Authors: Li Jian , Chen You-Peng , Dong Yun-Peng , Yu Cai-Hong , Lu Yong-Ping , Xiao Xiao-Min , Hocher Berthold
Published: October 2014

Background/Aims: Diabetes is well-known to influence endothelial function. Endothelial function and blood flow regulation might be different in diabetic and non-diabetic pregnancy. However, the impact of umbilical blood flow regulation in gestational diabetes on fetal development is unknown so far. Methods: In a prospective birth cohort study, we analyzed the association of the umbilical artery Doppler indices (pulsatility index, resistance index and systolic/diastolic ratio) and fetal size measures (biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length and birth weight) in 519 non-gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancies (controls) and 226 gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancies in middle (day 160.32 ±16.29 of gestation) and late (day 268.12 ±13.04 of gestation) pregnancy. Results: Multiple regression analysis considering confounding factors (gestational day of ultrasound examination, offspring sex, maternal body mess index before pregnancy, maternal age at delivery, maternal body weight at delivery and maternal hypertension) showed that umbilical artery Doppler indices (pulsatility index, resistance index and systolic/diastolic ratio) were associated with fetal head circumference and femur length in middle gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy but not in non-gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy. Head circumference, biparietal diameter, abdominal circumference and femur length in mid gestation were smaller in fetus of gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy versus non-gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy. In contrast to non-gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy in late gestation, umbilical artery Doppler indices in gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy were not associated with ultrasound measures of fetal growth. Birth weight was slightly increased in gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy as compared to non-gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy. Conclusions: The impact of umbilical blood flow on fetal growth is time dependent in human gestational diabetes mellitus and non-gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy. In gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy umbilical blood flow is critical for organ development in much earlier stages of pregnancy as compared to non-gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy. The physiological and molecular pathways why there is a catch up growth in later times of gestational diabetes mellitus pregnancy resulting in larger gestational diabetes mellitus babies at birth needs to be addressed in further studies.
Henry Duret (1849-1921): A Surgeon and Forgotten Neurologist
Authors: Walusinski Olivier , Courrivaud Philippe
Published: October 2014

Henri Duret (1849-1921) was a surgeon whose training started in the laboratory of Jean-Martin Charcot and Alfred Vulpian at La Salpêtrière in 1874. Using injections of colored gelatine, Duret was the first to describe the distribution of supply arteries in the brainstem and then in the cortex. His descriptions correlated irrigated territories, infarcted zones and secondary neurological deficits. He focused his 1878 thesis on experimental studies of brain trauma and localized the origin of disturbances in autonomic function and vigilance to the brainstem. He linked these disturbances to microhemorrhages affecting the medulla and pons, which are now known as Duret hemorrhages. Over 40 years, he authored numerous publications on digestive and gynecological surgery and on teaching in these areas. In 1905, another of his innovative works was published, which covered brain tumours, their clinical manifestations, the pathophysiological consequences of intracranial hypertension and the corresponding surgical treatments. This little-known treatise is in fact a pioneering work in neurosurgery, published well before the more familiar works of Victor Horsley and Harvey Cushing.
Gene Expression of Osteopontin in Alopecia Areata? A Case-Controlled Study
Authors: Rateb Amr A. , Mohammed Faisal N. , Sayed Khadiga S. , Hegazy Rehab A. , Al Agha Razan R. , Rashed Laila A. , Sayed Safinaz S.
Published: October 2014

Purpose of the Study: To study the expression of osteopontin (OPN) in alopecia areata (AA) lesions in a trial to clarify its possible role in the pathogenesis of such a disease. Procedures: Tissue level of OPN was measured in 28 AA patients as well as 25 age- and sex-matched healthy controls using both real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry. Results: The tissue level of OPN by real-time PCR (4.5-12.8, 8.93 ± 1.9) and immunohistochemical expression of positive OPN mean area percent (7.1-21.2%, 12 ± 5.5%) were significantly higher in patients compared to controls (1-4.6, 2.11 ± 0.93; 3.9-12.02%, 6.8 ± 2.8%, respectively; p < 0.0000). The Severity of Alopecia Tool score showed no significant correlation with the OPN mRNA expression (r = 0.11, p = 0.55). Conclusion: High OPN mRNA expression is associated with AA. OPN might play an important role in the pathogenesis of AA. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
What Is Sensitive Skin? A Systematic Literature Review of Objective Measurements
Authors: Richters Renée , Falcone Denise , Uzunbajakava Natallia , Verkruysse Willem , van Erp Piet , van de Kerkhof Peter
Published: October 2014

Despite sensitive skin being highly prevalent, no consensus on the definition and pathomechanism of sensitive skin exists. Here we report the results of a systematic literature review of diagnostic methods for sensitive skin at clinical, histological and biophysical levels. A systematic search revealed 27 out of 1,701 articles which we appraised in detail. Impaired skin barrier function and increased vascular reactivity are most often associated with sensitive skin. We identified key reasons causing an ambiguity around the sensitive skin phenomenon. We propose using standardized selection methods of subjects by a multifactorial questionnaire spanning a range of provocations, including those of chemical, mechanical and environmental origin, followed by clinical, histological and top-notch biophysical measurements. This could lead to a breakthrough in the understanding of the sensitive skin phenomenon, fueling advances of biomedical and dermatological science. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Cognitive and Sleep Features of Multiple System Atrophy: Review and Prospective Study
Authors: Stanzani-Maserati Michelangelo , Gallassi Roberto , Calandra-Buonaura Giovanna , Alessandria Maria , Oppi Federico , Poda Roberto , Sambati Luisa , Provini Federica , Cortelli Pietro
Published: October 2014

Background: The profile and degree of cognitive impairment in Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) and the impact of sleep disorders, REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) in particular, in parkinsonism-related cognitive deficits are currently being debated. Summary: We reviewed the cognitive, affective and sleep findings in MSA and also carried out a longitudinal investigation of 10 MSA patients. At the first evaluation, 3 patients showed isolated cognitive deficits. After a mean of 16 months, these patients remained unchanged, while 1 patient worsened from a normal condition. No significant differences emerged when the cognitive, affective and video-polysomnographic findings of MSA-P and MSA-C were compared. Depression was present in half of the patients, although it did not influence their cognitive performance. Comparisons between the first and second evaluation data showed significant worsening in visual attention and in ADL/IADL and UMSARS. Key Messages: Isolated cognitive deficits are evidenced in a minority of MSA patients with the absence of a clear-cut diagnosis of dementia in the early stages of the disease. Attention and executive functions are often impaired. This study with a short follow-up period showed that RBD, although present in almost all patients affected by MSA, does not appear a clear early marker of cognitive impairment. Future longer-term studies with a larger patient sample are thus encouraged.
Elevated Plasma Level of Pentraxin-3 Predicts In-Hospital and 30-Day Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Who Have Undergone Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Guo Rong , Li Yuanmin , Wen Jing , Li Weiming , Xu Yawei
Published: October 2014

Objectives: This investigation explored the short-term prognostic value of pentraxin-3 (PTX3) levels in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) treated by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: We measured plasma levels of PTX3 and other biomarkers in 525 PCI-treated NSTEMI patients (mean age, 57.7 years; 328 males). The associations of PTX3 levels with cardiac events and cardiac deaths occurring within 30 days of discharge were evaluated with multivariable Cox proportional hazard models. Results: Renal function, diabetes prevalence, systolic blood pressure, heart rate and ejection fraction differed significantly in the high PTX3 (≥3.0 ng/ml, n = 107) and low PTX3 (<3.0 ng/ml, n = 418) groups (all p < 0.05). Plasma PTX3 levels were correlated with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, troponin T and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide in NSTEMI patients (all p < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed in-hospital and 30-day cardiac events and deaths were higher in the high PTX3 group (both p < 0.01). Elevated PTX3 was an independent predictor of 30-day cardiac events (95% CI 1.09-1.68; p = 0.006) and mortality (95% CI 1.18-2.15; p = 0.002). Conclusions: An elevated plasma level of PTX3 predicts 30-day cardiac events and mortality in PCI-treated NSTEMI patients.
Evidence-Based Advances in Transfusion Practice in Neonatal Intensive Care Units
Authors: Christensen Robert D. , Carroll Patrick D. , Josephson Cassandra D.
Published: October 2014

Background: Transfusions to neonates convey both benefits and risks, and evidence is needed to guide wise use. Such evidence is accumulating, but more information is needed to generate sound evidence-based practices. Objective: We sought to analyze published information on nine aspects of transfusion practice in neonatal intensive care units. Methods: We assigned ‘categories of evidence' and ‘recommendations' using the format of the United States Preventive Services Task Force of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Results: The nine practices studied were: (1) delayed clamping or milking of the umbilical cord at preterm delivery - recommended, high/substantial A; (2) drawing the initial blood tests from cord/placental blood from very low birth weight (VLBW, <1,500 g) infants at delivery - recommended, moderate/moderate B; (3) limiting phlebotomy losses of VLBW infants - recommended, moderate/substantial B; (4) selected use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents to prevent transfusions - recommended, moderate/moderate-moderate/small B, C; (5) using platelet mass, rather than platelet count, in platelet transfusion decisions - recommended, moderate/small C; (6) permitting the platelet count to fall to <20,000/µl in ‘stable' neonates before transfusing platelets - recommended, low/small I; (8) permitting the platelet count to fall to <50,000/µl in ‘unstable' neonates before transfusing platelets - recommended, moderate/small C, and (9) not performing routine coagulation test screening on every VLBW infant - recommended, moderate/small C. Conclusions: We view these recommendations as dynamic, to be revised as additional evidence becomes available. We predict this list will expand as new studies provide more information to guide best transfusion practices.
Neonatal Thrombocytopenia and Platelet Transfusion - A UK Perspective
Authors: Carr Robert , Kelly Anne M. , Williamson Lorna M.
Published: October 2014

Five percent of newborn infants admitted to UK neonatal units during a recent study developed a platelet count <60 × 109/l, and 60% of these were transfused platelets. This review summarises the common causes and mechanisms of thrombocytopenia in the newborn. Relevant evidence relating the platelet count to the risk of haemorrhage is reviewed, and current UK guidance on transfusion thresholds outlined. The UK policy for the provision of platelets for transfusion to neonates is described, including the particular requirements for neonatal allo-immune thrombocytopenia. Finally, we look towards the future and prospects for reducing the need to expose newborns to donor-derived platelets.
Validation of the Estimation of Physiologic Ability and Surgical Stress (E-PASS) Score for Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients Undergoing Elective Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Abe Hayato , Mafune Ken-ichi , Minamimura Keisuke , Hirata Tooru
Published: October 2014

Aims: This study assessed the validity of the Estimation of Physiologic Ability and Surgical Stress (E-PASS) score in maintenance hemodialysis patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 73 hemodialysis patients who underwent elective gastrointestinal surgery. The main outcomes analyzed were the E-PASS score and postoperative course, which were defined by mortality and morbidity. The discriminative capability of the E-PASS score was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: The overall mortality rate observed was 2.7% (2 patients) and the morbidity rate was 36.9%. There were no significant differences in the comprehensive risk score, preoperative score or surgical stress score for patients with or without complications (p = 0.556, 0.639 and 0.168, respectively). Subsequent ROC curve analysis demonstrated poor predictive accuracy for morbidity. When the results in our study population were compared with those in Haga's study population, our population exhibited a highly significant rightward shift (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The E-PASS score was a poor predictor of complications because maintenance hemodialysis patients already have relatively high risk factors. This scoring system should not be applied in such a special group with high risk factors. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
The Course of Myasthenia Gravis with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Bekircan-Kurt Can Ebru , Tuncer Kurne Aslı , Erdem-Ozdamar Sevim , Kalyoncu Umut , Karabudak Rana , Tan Ersin
Published: October 2014

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is one of the autoimmune diseases, which is rarely reported with Myasthenia Gravis (MG). In the literature, the clinical features of MG in these patients were not mentioned in detail. Here, we want to present our five patients with MG and SLE. Methods: Between 2000 and 2010, 132 MG patients were evaluated and have been followed up in our institution. Five patients had MG with SLE and eleven patients had antinuclear antibody (ANA) positivity without SLE symptoms. The clinical, laboratory findings and treatment responses were reviewed. Results: All patients had generalized MG and four of five patients experienced at least one myasthenic crisis. The response to corticosteroid was poor; consequently, they needed immunosuppressive treatments, IVIg or plasmapheresis. Although in the literature thymectomy was accused of the precipitation of SLE, in our series SLE symptoms preceded thymectomy. Conclusion: We would like to point out that MG and SLE being two autoimmune diseases may coexist. This coexistence might cause a more severe myasthenic course compared to MG alone; therefore, these patients need a close and frequent follow-up.