bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Aircraft Attack Angle Control Considering Servo-Loop Dynamics
Authors: Liu Xiaodong , Wang Yan , Huang Wanwei , Jiao Zongxia
Published: January 2015

This paper presents a novel robust attack angle control approach, which can effectively suppress the impacts from system uncertainties and servo-loop dynamics. A second-order linear model of electromechanical servo loop is considered in the modeling and design processes. With regard to the block-structure models facing attack angle control, the multiple robust surfaces and dynamic surface control (DSC) approaches are both employed. By means of Lyapunov function method, the stability conditions of attack angle control systems are, respectively, given without/with considering the servo-loop dynamics in design process. Computer simulation results present that, compared with the attack angle control scheme which does not consider the servo-loop dynamics in design process, the proposed scheme can guarantee that the whole attack angle control system possesses the better comprehensive performances. Moreover, it is easy to be realized in engineering application.
Asymmetric Procyclicality of Chinese Banking and the Countercyclical Buffer of Basel III
Authors: Li Yufeng , Li Zhongfei
Published: January 2015

Since the global financial crisis of 2007-2008, the importance of the procyclicality in the banking sector has been highlighted. One of the Basel III objectives is to promote countercyclical buffers and reduce procyclicality. We apply time-varying copula combined with GARCH model to test the existence of asymmetric procyclicality of Chinese banking. The results show that the procyclicality of Chinese banking is asymmetric, where the dependence between loan and economy growth is more correlated during the decline stage than the rise stage of economy. Based on this asymmetry, we suggest that the authority can use high frequent index for signalling the start point of releasing countercyclical buffer and accelerate the releasing pace to avoid the supply of credit being constrained by regulatory capital requirements in downturns.
High-Risk Microgranular Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia with a Five-Way Complex Translocation Involving PML-RARA
Authors: Powers Benjamin , Persons Diane , Rao Deepthi , Woodroof Janet , Lin Tara L.
Published: January 2015

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is classically characterized by chromosomal translocation (15;17), resulting in the PML-RARA fusion protein leading to disease. Here, we present a case of a 50-year-old man who presented with signs and symptoms of acute leukemia with concern for APL. Therapy was immediately initiated with all-transretinoic acid. The morphology of his leukemic blasts was consistent with the hypogranular variant of APL. Subsequent FISH and cytogenetic analysis revealed a unique translocation involving five chromosomal regions: 9q34, 17q21, 15q24, 12q13, and 15q26.1. Molecular testing demonstrated PML/RARA fusion transcripts. Treatment with conventional chemotherapy was added and he went into a complete remission. Given his elevated white blood cell count at presentation, intrathecal chemotherapy for central nervous system prophylaxis was also given. The patient remains on maintenance therapy and remains in remission. This is the first such report of a 5-way chromosomal translocation leading to APL. Similar to APL with chromosomal translocations other than classical t(15;17) which result in the typical PML-RARA fusion, our patient responded promptly to an ATRA-containing regimen and remains in complete remission.
Malocclusion in Elementary School Children in Beirut: Severity and Related Social/Behavioral Factors
Authors: Hanna Antoine , Chaaya Monique , Moukarzel Celine , El Asmar Khalil , Jaffa Miran , Ghafari Joseph G.
Published: January 2015

Aim. To assess severity of malocclusion in Lebanese elementary school children and the relationship between components of malocclusion and sociodemographic and behavioral factors.Methods. Dental screening was performed on 655 school children aged 6–11 from 2 public (PB) and 5 private (PV) schools in Beirut. A calibrated examiner recorded occlusion, overjet, overbite, posterior crossbite, midline diastema, and crowding. Another examiner determined the DMFT (Decayed/Missing/Filled Teeth) score. A questionnaire filled by the parents provided data on sociodemographic and behavioral factors. Multinomial, binomial, and multiple linear regressions tested the association of these factors with occlusal indices.Results. Malocclusion was more severe in PB students. Age and sucking habit were associated with various components of malocclusion. Crowding was more prevalent among males and significantly associated with the DMFT score. Income and educational level were significantly higher(P<0.05)in PV pupils and deleterious habits were more frequent in PB children.Conclusions. Children of lower socioeconomic background had more severe malocclusions and poorer general dental health. Compared to Western and WHO norms, the findings prompt health policy suggestions to improve dental care of particularly public school children through regular screenings in schools, prevention methods when applicable, and cost effective practices through public and private enabling agencies.
Optimizing Simulated Multidisciplinary Team Training of Pediatric Emergencies: An Evaluation of Prerequisites for Transfer of Skills to Clinical Practice
Authors: Coolen E. H. A. J. , Klaassen T. P. F. M. , Draaisma J. M. T. , Fluit C. R. M. G. , Hogeveen M. , Loeffen J. L.
Published: January 2015

Introduction. Multidisciplinary simulation-based team training (STT) provides a powerful training method to train technical and team skills during emergencies. Effectiveness of STT depends on transfer of learned skills to clinical practice. In this study we examined three important prerequisites to enhance transfer from STT into clinical practice, intervention readiness, realism, and performance self-efficacy. Methods. For the quantitative part of the study, 131 participants (pediatric nurses and physicians) were asked to fill out an online questionnaire before and after training. For the qualitative part of the study we organized three one-hour focus group sessions in which participants were interviewed on attitude, realism, and self-efficacy. Results. Providing adequate preparation material and extensive debriefing of scenarios is important in creating this positive learning experience. The perspective of realism depends strongly on setting and learning goals. During STT team assembly and role playing can become more important to participants, while physical aspects become less important. Performance self-efficacy for all participants increases significantly (P<0.05) regarding team skills. Conclusions. STT can be a very positive multidisciplinary learning experience, which creates the possibility of enhancing confidence, skills, and team performance within the clinical context. STT combines three important prerequisites for transfer of training to take place.
The Preparation of Graphene Reinforced Poly(vinyl alcohol) Antibacterial Nanocomposite Thin Film
Authors: Cao Yuan-Cheng , Wei Wenjun , Liu Jiyan , You Qingliang , Liu Feiyan , Lan Qian , Zhang Chang , Liu Chang , Zhao Jinxing
Published: January 2015

Methylated melamine grafted polyvinyl benzylchloride (mm-g-PvBCl) was prepared which was used as additive in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and graphene nanosheets (GNs) were used to reinforce the mechanical strength. Using casting method, antimicrobial nanocomposite films were prepared with the polymeric biocide loading lever of 1 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt%. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) characterization revealed the 2.0 wt% of graphene content in resultant nanocomposites films. XRD showed that the resultant GNs 2 theta was changed from 16.6 degree to 23.3 degree. Using Japanese Industry Standard test methods, the antimicrobial efficiency for the loading lever of 1 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt% was 92.0%, 95.8%, and 97.1%, respectively, against gram negative bacteriaE. coliand 92.3%, 99.6%, and 99.7%, respectively, against the gram positiveS. aureus. These results indicate the prepared nanocomposite films are the promising materials for the food and drink package applications.
Occipital Neuralgia after Hair Transplantation and Its Treatment
Authors: Siefferman Jason , Khelemsky Yury
Published: January 2015

While undergoing full thickness tissue harvest from the posterior scalp, a 72-year-old man experienced immediate severe pain in the right occiput and was unable to complete the procedure. The pain was constant “sharp” and “shocking” with numbness in the distribution of the lesser occipital nerve, exacerbated by physical activity, and local anesthetic blocks provided temporary complete relief. After numerous treatments over several years, including oral analgesics, botulinum toxin injections, and acupuncture, proved ineffective, pulsed radiofrequency neuromodulation provided greater than 80% relief for 5 months.
Analytical Quality by Design Approach to Test Method Development and Validation in Drug Substance Manufacturing
Authors: Raman N. V. V. S. S. , Mallu Useni Reddy , Bapatu Hanimi Reddy
Published: January 2015

Pharmaceutical industry has been emerging rapidly for the last decade by focusing on product Quality, Safety, and Efficacy. Pharmaceutical firms increased the number of product development by using scientific tools such as QbD (Quality by Design) and PAT (Process Analytical Technology). ICH guidelines Q8 to Q11 have discussed QbD implementation in API synthetic process and formulation development. ICH Q11 guidelines clearly discussed QbD approach for API synthesis with examples. Generic companies are implementing QbD approach in formulation development and even it is mandatory for USFDA perspective. As of now there is no specific requirements for AQbD (Analytical Quality by Design) and PAT in analytical development from all regulatory agencies. In this review, authors have discussed the implementation of QbD and AQbD simultaneously for API synthetic process and analytical methods development. AQbD key tools are identification of ATP (Analytical Target Profile), CQA (Critical Quality Attributes) with risk assessment, Method Optimization and Development with DoE, MODR (method operable design region), Control Strategy, AQbD Method Validation, and Continuous Method Monitoring (CMM). Simultaneous implementation of QbD activities in synthetic and analytical development will provide the highest quality product by minimizing the risks and even it is very good input for PAT approach.
Next Generation Sequencing to Determine the Cystic Fibrosis Mutation Spectrum in Palestinian Population
Authors: Essawi O. , Farraj M. , De Leeneer K. , Steyaert W. , De Pauw K. , De Paepe A. , Claes K. , Essawi T. , Coucke P. J.
Published: January 2015

An extensive molecular analysis of the CF transmembrane regulator (CFTR) gene was performed to establish theCFTRmutation spectrum and frequencies in the Palestinian population, which can be considered as an understudied population. We used a targeted Next Generation Sequencing approach to sequence the entire coding region and the adjacent sequences of theCFTRgene combined with MLPA analysis of 60 unrelated CF patients. Eighteen different CF-causing mutations, including one previously undescribed mutation p.(Gly1265Arg), were identified. The overall detection rate is up to 67%, and when we consider only CF patients with sweat chloride concentrations >70 mEq/L, we even have a pickup rate of 92%. Whereas p.(Phe508del) is the most frequent allele (35% of the positive cases), 3 other mutations c.2988+1Kbdel8.6Kb, c.1393-1G>A, and p.(Gly85Glu) showed frequencies higher than 5% and a total of 9 mutations account for 84% of the mutations. This limited spectrum of CF mutations is in agreement with the homozygous ethnic origin of the Palestinian population. The relative large portion of patients without a mutation is most likely due to clinical misdiagnosis. Our results will be important in the development of an adequate molecular diagnostic test for CF in Palestine.
Melanoma Cells Homing to the Brain: AnIn VitroModel
Authors: Rizzo A. , Vasco C. , Girgenti V. , Fugnanesi V. , Calatozzolo C. , Canazza A. , Salmaggi A. , Rivoltini L. , Morbin M. , Ciusani E.
Published: January 2015

We developed anin vitrocontact through-feet blood brain barrier (BBB) model built using type IV collagen, rat astrocytes, and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cocultured through Transwell porous polycarbonate membrane. The contact between astrocytes and HUVECs was demonstrated by electron microscopy: astrocytes endfeet pass through the 8.0 μm pores inducing HUVECs to assume a cerebral phenotype. Using this model we evaluated transmigration of melanoma cells from two different patients (M1 and M2) selected among seven melanoma primary cultures. M2 cells showed a statistically significant higher capability to pass across thein vitroBBB model, compared to M1. Expression of adhesion molecules was evaluated by flow cytometry: a statistically significant increased expression of MCAM,αvβ3, and CD49b was detected in M1. PCR array data showed that M2 had a higher expression of several matrix metalloproteinase proteins (MMPs) compared to M1. Specifically, data suggest that MMP2 and MMP9 could be directly involved in BBB permeability and that brain invasion by melanoma cells could be related to the overexpression of many MMPs. Future studies will be necessary to deepen the mechanisms of central nervous system invasion.
Association between Serum Bilirubin and Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate among Diabetic Patients
Authors: Katoh Takeaki , Kawamoto Ryuichi , Kohara Katsuhiko , Miki Tetsuro
Published: January 2015

The subjects comprised 230 men aged 77 ± 10 (range: 50–100) years and 279 women aged 81 ± 10 (50–101) years that visited the medical department. We examined the relationship between increased serum bilirubin and renal function evaluated by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using CKD-EPI equations modified by a Japanese coefficient. Compared with the fourth quartile in serum bilirubin (1.01–1.97 mg/dL), the nonadjusted, age and gender-adjusted, and multivariate-adjusted odds ratios{95% confidence interval (CI)}of eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2for the first quartile in serum bilirubin (0.13–0.50 mg/dL) were 2.08 (1.25–3.44), 1.82 (1.07–3.09), and 1.53 (0.83–2.81), respectively. Moreover, compared with the fourth quartile, nonadjusted, age and gender-adjusted, and multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (95% CI) of eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m2for the first quartile were 3.50 (1.95–6.23), 3.12 (1.72–5.65), and 3.53 (1.71–7.26), respectively. The data were further stratified by gender, age, medication (antihypertensive, antidyslipidemic, and antidiabetic agents), and prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The standardized coefficients for eGFR were significant in all the subgroups other than the prevalence of CVD, and there were significant interactions between the two groups regarding CVD. Our data demonstrated an independent positive association between serum bilirubin and eGFR among diabetic patients.
Dust Aerosols Detected Using a Ground-Based Polarization Lidar and CALIPSO over Wuhan (30.5°N, 114.4°E), China
Authors: He Yun , Yi Fan
Published: January 2015

The vertical distribution, horizontal range, and optical properties of Asian dust were obtained using a ground-based depolarization lidar and Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) over a two-year measurement period (2010–2012) in Wuhan (30.5°N, 114.4°E), China. The depolarization lidar registered 13 dust events, most of which occurred in the spring (5 events) and winter (6 events). The dust layers occurred at heights of approximately 1.4–3.5 km. The horizontal ranges of the dust plumes were approximately 750–2400 km, based on the CALIPSO data. The average volume depolarization ratio (δ), particle depolarization ratio (δp), extinction and optical depth (AOD) of the dust layers were 0.12, 0.22, 0.19 km−1, and 0.32, respectively. The dust layers observed in the winter occurred at a lower height and had larger mean extinction and AOD, and smaller meanδandδpthan the spring dust layers. These wintertime features may result from a lower troposphere temperature inversion, the mixing of local aerosols, and hygroscopic growth under suitable relative humidity conditions. A dust event in April 2011 spanned 9 days. Compared with the observations at other sites, the dust layers over Wuhan exhibited more turbid along with suppressed nonspherical particle shape.
Systems Biology and Synthetic Biology: A New Epoch for Toxicology Research
Authors: Mc Auley Mark T. , Choi Hyunok , Mooney Kathleen , Paul Emily , Miller Veronica M.
Published: January 2015

Systems biology and synthetic biology are emerging disciplines which are becoming increasingly utilised in several areas of bioscience. Toxicology is beginning to benefit from systems biology and we suggest in the future that is will also benefit from synthetic biology. Thus, a new era is on the horizon. This review illustrates how a suite of innovative techniques and tools can be applied to understanding complex health and toxicology issues. We review limitations confronted by the traditional computational approaches to toxicology and epidemiology research, using polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their effects on adverse birth outcomes as an illustrative example. We introduce how systems toxicology (and their subdisciplines, genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic toxicology) will help to overcome such limitations. In particular, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of mathematical frameworks that computationally represent biological systems. Finally, we discuss the nascent discipline of synthetic biology and highlight relevant toxicological centred applications of this technique, including improvements in personalised medicine. We conclude this review by presenting a number of opportunities and challenges that could shape the future of these rapidly evolving disciplines.
The Effect of Intravenous Iron Treatment on Quality of Life in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients with Nonanemic Iron Deficiency
Authors: Çekiç Cem , İpek Serkan , Aslan Fatih , Akpınar Zehra , Arabul Mahmut , Topal Firdevs , Sarıtaş Yüksel Elif , Alper Emrah , Ünsal Belkıs
Published: January 2015

Background.Iron deficiency is the prevalent complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Herein, we investigated the effect of intravenous iron treatment on quality of life (QoL) in nonanemic and iron deficient IBD patients.Methods.Eighty-five IBD patients were recruited for this study. The patients were intravenously administered 500 mg iron sucrose in the first week of the study. Hematologic parameters and QoL were evaluated before to iron treatment and during the 12th week of treatment. The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ) and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey were used to assess QoL.Results.Prior to intravenous iron administration, the IBDQ, SF-36 Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores were152.3±30.6,46.7±7.3, and45.7±9.8, respectively. In the 12th week of iron administration, those scores were162.3±25.5(P<0.001),49.3±6.4(P<0.001), and47.6±8.9(P=0.024), respectively, which were all significantly different from the scores prior to iron administration. The mean changes in the IBDQ scores for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease were 8.7% and 3.0% (P=0.029), were 6.4% and 4.7% (P=0.562) for the SF-36 PCS, and were 4.6% and 3.2% (P=0.482) for the SF-36 MCS, respectively.Conclusion.Intravenous iron treatment may improve QoL in nonanemic, but iron deficient, IBD patients.
Impact of Heterogeneous Consumers on Pricing Decisions under Dual-Channel Competition
Authors: Wei Ying , Li Feng
Published: January 2015

This paper studies impact of heterogeneous consumer behavior on optimal pricing decisions under dual channel supply chain competition, which consists of one manufacturer and one retailer. The manufacturer is market leader with two sales channels: one is direct channel facing consumers directly and the other is indirect channel facing the retailer. Consumers decide whether to buy and from which channel to buy products. Purchasing decisions are based on considerations of prices posted on different channels, preference or loyalty to specific channels, and degree of rationality in decision-making process. Due to the complexity of heterogeneous consumer decision behavior, traditional mathematical analysis to the pricing problem becomes quite challenging. An agent-based modeling and simulation approach is then proposed and implemented. Simulation results reveal that consumer behavior influences both prices and profits. When consumers are increasingly loyal to the retailing channel, the retailer can make a higher selling price and more benefits. On the other hand, when consumers are increasingly loyal to the direct channel, the number of purchases from the direct channel increases and the manufacturer is better off. It is also interesting to note that as rationality level increases, selling prices for both channels slightly decrease.
Potential Therapeutic Benefit of Combining Gefitinib and Tamoxifen for Treating Advanced Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Chien-Ming , Chiu Kuo-Liang , Chen Tzu-Sheng , Chang Shang-Miao , Yang Shu-Yun , Chen Li-Hsiou , Ni Yung-Lun , Sher Yuh-Pyng , Yu Sung-Liang , Ma Wen-Lung
Published: January 2015

Introduction. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are known as oncogene driver mutations and with EGFR mutations exhibit good response to the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor Gefitinib. Some studies have shown that activation of estrogen and estrogen receptorαorβ(ERα/β) promote adenocarcinoma. We evaluated the relationship between the two receptors and the potential therapeutic benefit with Gefitinib and Tamoxifen.Methods. We assessed the association between EGFR mutations as well as ERα/βexpression/location and overall survival in a cohort of 55 patients with LAC from a single hospital. PC9 (EGFR exon 19 deletion mutant; Gefitinib-vulnerable cells) and A549 (EGFR wild type; Gefitinib-resistant cells) cancer cells were used to evaluate the in vitro therapeutic benefits of combining Gefitinib and Tamoxifen.Results. We found that the cytosolic but not the nuclear expression of ERβwas associated with better OS in LAC tumors but not associated with EGFR mutation. The in vitro study showed that combined Gefitinib and Tamoxifen resulted in increased apoptosis and cytosolic expression of ERβ. In addition, combining both medications resulted in reduced cell growth and increased the cytotoxic effect of Gefitinib.Conclusion. Tamoxifen enhanced advanced LAC cytotoxic effect induced by Gefitinib by arresting ERβin cytosol.
RCIA: A New Ultralightweight RFID Authentication Protocol Using Recursive Hash
Authors: Mujahid Umar , Najam-ul-Islam M. , Shami M. Ali
Published: January 2015

RFID is one of the most protuberant systems in the field of ubiquitous computing. Since RFID tags have limited computation capabilities, numerous ultralightweight authentication protocols have been proposed to provide privacy and security. However all the previously proposed ultralightweight mutual authentication protocols have some security apprehensions and are vulnerable to various desynchronization and full disclosure attacks. This paper proposes a new ultralightweight mutual authentication protocol to provide robust confidentiality, integrity, and authentication (RCIA) in a cost effective manner. RCIA introduces a new ultralightweight primitive recursive hash, which efficiently detects the message tempering and also avoids all possible desynchronization attacks. RCIA involves only bitwise operations such as XOR, AND, left rotation, and recursive hash. Performance evaluation illustrates that RCIA requires less resources on tag in terms of on-chip memory, communication cost, and computational operations.
Regularization off(T)Gravity Theories and Local Lorentz Transformation
Authors: Nashed Gamal G. L.
Published: January 2015

We regularized the field equations off(T)gravity theories such that the effect of local Lorentz transformation (LLT), in the case of spherical symmetry, is removed. A “general tetrad field,” with an arbitrary function of radial coordinate preserving spherical symmetry, is provided. We split that tetrad field into two matrices; the first represents a LLT, which contains an arbitrary function, and the second matrix represents a proper tetrad field which is a solution to the field equations off(T)gravitational theory (which are not invariant under LLT). This “general tetrad field” is then applied to the regularized field equations off(T). We show that the effect of the arbitrary function which is involved in the LLT invariably disappears.
Log-Linear Model Based Behavior Selection Method for Artificial Fish Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Huang Zhehuang , Chen Yidong
Published: January 2015

Artificial fish swarm algorithm (AFSA) is a population based optimization technique inspired by social behavior of fishes. In past several years, AFSA has been successfully applied in many research and application areas. The behavior of fishes has a crucial impact on the performance of AFSA, such as global exploration ability and convergence speed. How to construct and select behaviors of fishes are an important task. To solve these problems, an improved artificial fish swarm algorithm based on log-linear model is proposed and implemented in this paper. There are three main works. Firstly, we proposed a new behavior selection algorithm based on log-linear model which can enhance decision making ability of behavior selection. Secondly, adaptive movement behavior based on adaptive weight is presented, which can dynamically adjust according to the diversity of fishes. Finally, some new behaviors are defined and introduced into artificial fish swarm algorithm at the first time to improve global optimization capability. The experiments on high dimensional function optimization showed that the improved algorithm has more powerful global exploration ability and reasonable convergence speed compared with the standard artificial fish swarm algorithm.
Low-Profile Magnetic Loop Monopole Antenna Based on a Square Substrate-Integrated Cavity
Authors: Kaufmann Thomas , Fumeaux Christophe
Published: January 2015

A low-profile monopole antenna with height belowλ0/16is proposed. The antenna is based on a square substrate-integrated cavity radiating through apertures in its four side walls. This effectively creates a small square loop of magnetic currents, which radiates omnidirectionally as an electric monopole. The antenna cavity has a side length of less thanλ0/3and thus resonates in the monomode region, in a fundamentalTM11mode. This means that the structure is robust in terms of feeding and manufacturing tolerances, as no parasitic modes can be excited. The designs of the cavity and the feed are introduced in detail. The measurement results from a manufactured prototype operating at 5.9 GHz show good agreement with simulations and validate the proposed approach.
Formulation Development of Mouth Dissolving Film of Etoricoxib for Pain Management
Authors: Senthilkumar K. , Vijaya C.
Published: January 2015

Etoricoxib is a potent, orally active, and highly selective COX-2 inhibitor that exhibits anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities. The present research was undertaken to develop mouth dissolving films of etoricoxib to have rapid onset of action. Mouth dissolving film (MDF) is a better alternate to oral disintegrating tablets due to its novelty, ease of use, and the consequent patient compliance. Solubility enhancement and taste masking of etoricoxib were the two challenges solved by formulating drug-inclusion complex with beta-cyclodextrin (BCD). MDF prepared by solvent casting etoricoxib-BCD complex along with HPMC as film forming polymer was found to possess desirable physicomechanical properties. In vitro release of etoricoxib from MDF in simulated salivary fluid and 0.1 N HCl was more than 95% within 2 minutes. Taste masking and in vivo disintegration were in acceptable range as assessed by human volunteers. Etoricoxib MDF was further characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The index of analgesia shown by etoricoxib MDF was comparable to that of immediate release tablets (100% activity within 40 minutes) in animal studies. Conclusively, the present study documents the development of a commercially viable formula for an MDF of etoricoxib with rapidity in pain management.
More Than One Disease Process in Chronic Sinusitis Based on Mucin Fragmentation Patterns and Amino Acid Analysis
Authors: Ali Mahmoud El-Sayed , Pearson Jeffrey P.
Published: January 2015

Objective. To characterise fragmentation patterns and amino acid composition of MUC2 and MUC5AC in chronic sinusitis.Methods. Antigenic identity of purified sinus mucins was determined by ELISA. Fragmentation patterns of a MUC5AC rich sample mucin were analysed by Sepharose CL-2B gel chromatography. Samples, divided into one MUC2 rich and one MUC5AC rich group, were subjected to sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and their amino acid contents were analysed.Results. Reduction, trypsin digestion, and papain digestion produced progressively smaller mucin species. On SDS-PAGE, digested MUC5AC rich mucin produced four distinct products. Amino acid analysis was characteristic of mucins with high serine, threonine, and proline contents and reduction and proteolysis increased relative proportions of these amino acids. MUC5AC rich mucins contained more protein than MUC2 rich mucins.Conclusion. Sinus mucin fragmentation produced mucin subunits and glycopeptide units of smaller molecular sizes which are likely to have lower viscoelastic properties. Applying this in vivo could alter mucus physical properties and biologic functions. Amino acid contents of MUC2 and MUC5AC mucins are different. This could be contributing to biological properties and functions of sinus mucins. These data suggest that there may be different pathological processes occurring at the cellular level on chronic sinusitis.
CYP17A1and Blood Pressure Reactivity to Stress in Adolescence
Authors: Van Woudenberg Mariel , Shin Jean , Bernard Manon , Syme Catriona , Abrahamowicz Michal , Leonard Gabriel , Perron Michel , Richer Louis , Veillette Suzanna , Gaudet Daniel , Paus Tomas , Pausova Zdenka
Published: January 2015

Adolescents who exhibit exaggerated blood pressure (BP) reactivity to physical and mental challenges are at increased risk of developing hypertension in adulthood. BP at rest and in response to challenges is higher in males than females, beginning in early adolescence.CYP17A1is one of the well-established gene loci of adult hypertension. Here, we investigated whether this gene locus is associated with elevated BP at rest and in response to physical (active standing) and mental (math stress) challenges in adolescence. We studied 496 male and 532 female adolescents (age 12–18 years) who were recruited from a genetic founder population. Our results showed that the variant ofCYP17A1rs10786718 was associated with enhanced BP reactivity to the mental but not physical challenge and in males but not females. In males, BP increase in response to math stress was higher in major versus minor allele homozygotes by 7.6 mm Hg (P=8.3×10-6). Resting BP was not associated with theCYP17A1variant in either sex. These results suggest that, in adolescent males but not females,CYP17A1enhances BP reactivity to mental stress. Whether this effect contributes to the higher prevalence of hypertension in males than females later in life remains to be determined.
Heavy Metal Stress and Some Mechanisms of Plant Defense Response
Authors: Emamverdian Abolghassem , Ding Yulong , Mokhberdoran Farzad , Xie Yinfeng
Published: January 2015

Unprecedented bioaccumulation and biomagnification of heavy metals (HMs) in the environment have become a dilemma for all living organisms including plants. HMs at toxic levels have the capability to interact with several vital cellular biomolecules such as nuclear proteins and DNA, leading to excessive augmentation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This would inflict serious morphological, metabolic, and physiological anomalies in plants ranging from chlorosis of shoot to lipid peroxidation and protein degradation. In response, plants are equipped with a repertoire of mechanisms to counteract heavy metal (HM) toxicity. The key elements of these are chelating metals by forming phytochelatins (PCs) or metallothioneins (MTs) metal complex at the intra‐ and intercellular level, which is followed by the removal of HM ions from sensitive sites or vacuolar sequestration of ligand‐metal complex. Nonenzymatically synthesized compounds such as proline (Pro) are able to strengthen metal‐detoxification capacity of intracellular antioxidant enzymes. Another important additive component of plant defense system is symbiotic association with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. AM can effectively immobilize HMs and reduce their uptake by host plants via binding metal ions to hyphal cell wall and excreting several extracellular biomolecules. Additionally, AM fungi can enhance activities of antioxidant defense machinery of plants.
Arthroscopic-Assisted Treatment of a Reversed Hill-Sachs Lesion: Description of a New Technique Using Cerament
Authors: Bark S. , Renken F. , Schulz A. P. , Paech A. , Gille J.
Published: January 2015

Purpose. Impaction fractures of the anterior aspect of the humeral head, the reversed Hill-Sachs lesion, are common in posterior shoulder dislocation. We present a new technique to address these lesions arthroscopic-assisted with the use of a bone substitute.Methods. We report the case of a 45-year-old male with a reversed Hill-Sachs lesion after posterior shoulder dislocation. Initially a glenohumeral arthroscopy is performed to address concomitant intra-articular injuries. Guided by the k-wire a cannulated sizer was inserted for reduction of the fracture under arthroscopic visualization. For reduction of the impacted part of the humeral head the subcortical defect was filled with an injectable bone substitute (Cerament) to prevent secondary dislocation.Results. X-ray at follow-up 6 months after the index procedure documents the bony remodeling of the bone substitute. At that time the patient was pain-free (VAS 0) and satisfied with the outcome (Constant score: 78, Rand-36 score: 84, Rowe score: 81) with a good ROM.Conclusions. In conclusion, arthroscopic-assisted reconstruction of reversed Hill-Sachs lesions with an injectable bone substitute is feasible and may provide patients with all the benefits of an anatomic reconstruction with decreased risks related to open surgery.
Improving Perinatal Care in the Rural Regions Worldwide by Wireless Enabled Antepartum Fetal Monitoring: A Demonstration Project
Authors: Tapia-Conyer Roberto , Lyford Shelley , Saucedo Rodrigo , Casale Michael , Gallardo Hector , Becerra Karen , Mack Jonathan , Mujica Ricardo , Estrada Daniel , Sanchez Antonio , Sabido Ramon , Meier Carlos , Smith Joseph
Published: January 2015

Background. Fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality are significant problems in developing countries; remote maternal-fetal monitoring offers promise in addressing this challenge. The Gary and Mary West Health Institute and the Instituto Carlos Slim de la Salud conducted a demonstration project of wirelessly enabled antepartum maternal-fetal monitoring in the state of Yucatán, Mexico, to assess whether there were any fundamental barriers preventing deployment and use.Methods. Following informed consent, high-risk pregnant women at 27–29 weeks of gestation at the Chemax primary clinic participated in remote maternal-fetal monitoring. Study participants were randomized to receive either prototype wireless monitoring or standard-of-care. Feasibility was evaluated by assessing technical aspects of performance, adherence to monitoring appointments, and response to recommendations.Results. Data were collected from 153 high-risk pregnant indigenous Mayan women receiving either remote monitoring (n=74) or usual standard-of-care (n=79). Remote monitoring resulted in markedly increased adherence (94.3% versus 45.1%). Health outcomes were not statistically different in the two groups.Conclusions. Remote maternal-fetal monitoring is feasible in resource-constrained environments and can improve maternal compliance for monitoring sessions. Improvement in maternal-fetal health outcomes requires integration of such technology into sociocultural context and addressing logistical challenges of access to appropriate emergency services.
Single Phase Natural Circulation Behaviors of the Integral Type Marine Reactor Simulator under Rolling Motion Condition
Authors: Gong Hou-jun , Yang Xing-tuan , Huang Yan-ping , Jiang Sheng-yao
Published: January 2015

During operation in the sea the reactor natural circulation behaviors are affected by ship rolling motion. The development of an analysis code and the natural circulation behaviors of a reactor simulator under rolling motion are described in this paper. In the case of rolling motion, the primary coolant flow rates in the hot legs and heating channels oscillated periodically, and the amplitude of flow rate oscillation was in direct proportion to rolling amplitude, but in inverse proportion to rolling period. The total mass flow rate also oscillated with half the rolling period, and the average total mass flow rate was less than that in steady state. In the natural circulation under a rolling motion, the flow rate oscillations in the hot legs were controlled by the tangential force; however, the mass flow rate oscillations in the total natural circulation and the heating channels were a result of the combined action of the change of inclination angle, flow resistance, and the extra force arising from the rolling motion. The extra tangential force brought about intense flow rate oscillations in the hot legs, which resulted in increasing total flow resistance; however the extra centrifugal force played a role in increasing thermal driving head.
Supplementation with Red Palm Oil Increases β‐Carotene and Vitamin A Blood Levels in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Sommerburg Olaf , De Spirt Silke , Mattern Annett , Joachim Cornelia , Langhans Claus-Dieter , Nesaretnam Kalanithi , Siems Werner , Stahl Wilhelm , Mall Marcus A.
Published: January 2015

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) show decreased plasma concentrations of antioxidants due to malabsorption of lipid soluble vitamins and consumption by chronic pulmonary inflammation. β‐Carotene is a major source of retinol and therefore is of particular significance in CF. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of daily intake of red palm oil (RPO) containing high amounts of β‐carotene on the antioxidant levels in CF patients. Sixteen subjects were recruited and instructed to enrich their food with 2 to 3 tablespoons of RPO (~1.5 mg of β‐carotene) daily over 8 weeks. Carotenoids, retinol, and α‐tocopherol were measured in plasma at baseline and after intervention. In addition β‐carotene, lycopene, α‐tocopherol, and vitamin C were measured in buccal mucosa cells (BMC) to determine the influence of RPO on antioxidant tissue levels. Eleven subjects completed the study properly. Plasma β‐carotene, retinol, and α‐carotene of these patients increased, but plasma concentrations of other carotenoids and α‐tocopherol as well as concentrations of β‐carotene, lycopene, α‐tocopherol, and vitamin C in BMC remained unchanged. Since RPO on a daily basis did not show negative side effects the data suggest that RPO may be used to elevate plasma β‐carotene in CF.
Some Fixed Point Theorems in Complex Valued b-Metric Spaces
Authors: Dubey A. K. , Shukla Rita , Dubey R. P.
Published: January 2015

Recently, Azam et al. introduced the notion of complex valued metric spaces and proved fixed point theorems under the contraction condition. Rao et al. introduced the notion of complex valued b-metric spaces. In this paper, we obtain some fixed point results for the mapping satisfying rational expressions in complex valued b-metric spaces. Also, an example is given to illustrate our obtained result.
Identification of Gas Sand Horizons of the Rashidpur Structure, Surma Basin, Bangladesh, Using 2D Seismic Interpretation
Authors: Islam Abu Reza Md. Towfiqul , Habib Md. Ahosan
Published: January 2015

A total of 13 seismic sections were used for 2D seismic interpretation in order to assess the subsurface geometry of gas sand horizons and hydrocarbon prospect of the Rashidpur structure, Surma Basin, Bangladesh. Out of five reflectors, two selected reflectors were mapped for the study. The top of the Upper Gas Sand (R3) reflector was elongated in N-S with the axis swinging slightly to the east on the northern plunge. North-South trending thrust fault was identified in the eastern part which is parallel to the axial line of the structure. The reflection patterns of the gas sand horizons were parallel to each other and similar in nature. The reflection coefficients were positive at the base and negative at the top of the each gas sand horizons. Velocity dropped from 2562 m/s to 2177 m/s in the Upper Gas Sand (R3) and 4320 m/s to 3413 m/s in the Lower Gas Sand (R5) reflector. Bright spot and amplitude anomalies were identified on the top of the both gas sand horizons. The result depicts that the shape of the gas sand horizons is asymmetric anticline. The structure is compressed and elongated NNW-SSE trending anticline. The study reveals hydrocarbon potentiality of the structure.
Dispersion Features of Conducting Sheath Helix Embedded Elliptical and Circular Fibers with Chiral Nihility Core
Authors: Iqbal N. , Baqir M. A. , Choudhury P. K.
Published: January 2015

Discussions have been made of the electromagnetic wave propagation through optical fibers of elliptical and circular cross‐sections with the loadings of conducting sheath helix at the core‐clad interface with particular orientations. In both geometrical situations, the core section of fiber is assumed to be composed of chiral nihility medium, and the clad remains linear, homogeneous, isotropic, and nonmagnetic dielectric. Dispersion relations are deduced for both fiber structures, followed by the analysis of dispersion features considering a few low‐order EH modes. Furthermore, the effects of conducting helix pitch angle on the features of wave propagation are also discussed.
Probabilistic Routing Based on Two-Hop Information in Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networks
Authors: Wang Xu , He Rongxi , Lin Bin , Wang Ying
Published: January 2015

We investigate an opportunistic routing protocol in delay/disruption tolerant networks (DTNs) where the end-to-end path between source and destination nodes may not exist for most of the time. Probabilistic routing protocol using history of encounters and transitivity (PRoPHET) is an efficient history-based routing protocol specifically proposed for DTNs, which only utilizes the delivery predictability of one-hop neighbors to make a decision for message forwarding. In order to further improve the message delivery rate and to reduce the average overhead of PRoPHET, in this paper we propose an improved probabilistic routing algorithm (IPRA), where the history information of contacts for the immediate encounter and two-hop neighbors has been jointly used to make an informed decision for message forwarding. Based on the Opportunistic Networking Environment (ONE) simulator, the performance of IPRA has been evaluated via extensive simulations. The results show that IPRA can significantly improve the average delivery rate while achieving a better or comparable performance with respect to average overhead, average delay, and total energy consumption compared with the existing algorithms.
Self-Adaptive Prediction of Cloud Resource Demands Using Ensemble Model and Subtractive-Fuzzy Clustering Based Fuzzy Neural Network
Authors: Chen Zhijia , Zhu Yuanchang , Di Yanqiang , Feng Shaochong
Published: January 2015

In IaaS (infrastructure as a service) cloud environment, users are provisioned with virtual machines (VMs). To allocate resources for users dynamically and effectively, accurate resource demands predicting is essential. For this purpose, this paper proposes a self-adaptive prediction method using ensemble model and subtractive-fuzzy clustering based fuzzy neural network (ESFCFNN). We analyze the characters of user preferences and demands. Then the architecture of the prediction model is constructed. We adopt some base predictors to compose the ensemble model. Then the structure and learning algorithm of fuzzy neural network is researched. To obtain the number of fuzzy rules and the initial value of the premise and consequent parameters, this paper proposes the fuzzyc-means combined with subtractive clustering algorithm, that is, the subtractive-fuzzy clustering. Finally, we adopt different criteria to evaluate the proposed method. The experiment results show that the method is accurate and effective in predicting the resource demands.
Portulaca oleraceaL.: A Review of Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Effects
Authors: Zhou Yan-Xi , Xin Hai-Liang , Rahman Khalid , Wang Su-Juan , Peng Cheng , Zhang Hong
Published: January 2015

Portulaca oleraceaL., belonging to the Portulacaceae family, is commonly known as purslane in English and Ma-Chi-Xian in Chinese. It is a warm-climate, herbaceous succulent annual plant with a cosmopolitan distribution. It is eaten extensively as a potherb and added in soups and salads around the Mediterranean and tropical Asian countries and has been used as a folk medicine in many countries. Diverse compounds have been isolated fromPortulaca oleracea, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, fatty acids, terpenoids, sterols, proteins vitamins and minerals.Portulaca oleraceapossesses a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties such as neuroprotective, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiulcerogenic, and anticancer activities. However, few molecular mechanisms of action are known. This review provides a summary of phytochemistry and pharmacological effects of this plant.
A Hybrid Approach to the Optimization of Multiechelon Systems
Authors: Sitek Paweł , Wikarek Jarosław
Published: January 2015

In freight transportation there are two main distribution strategies: direct shipping and multiechelon distribution. In the direct shipping, vehicles, starting from a depot, bring their freight directly to the destination, while in the multiechelon systems, freight is delivered from the depot to the customers through an intermediate points. Multiechelon systems are particularly useful for logistic issues in a competitive environment. The paper presents a concept and application of a hybrid approach to modeling and optimization of the Multi-Echelon Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem. Two ways of mathematical programming (MP) and constraint logic programming (CLP) are integrated in one environment. The strengths of MP and CLP in which constraints are treated in a different way and different methods are implemented and combined to use the strengths of both. The proposed approach is particularly important for the discrete decision models with an objective function and many discrete decision variables added up in multiple constraints. An implementation of hybrid approach in theECLiPSesystem using Eplex library is presented. The Two-Echelon Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (2E-CVRP) and its variants are shown as an illustrative example of the hybrid approach. The presented hybrid approach will be compared with classical mathematical programming on the same benchmark data sets.