bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Rating Modification on a Fuzzy-Based Modular Architecture for Medical Device Design and Development
Authors: Aguwa Celestine C. , Monplaisir Leslie , Sylajakumari Prasanth A.
Published: November 2012

The goal of this research is to determine the effect of customer ratings on the optimal number of modules for medical device design. Medical devices have a 90% failure rate in their first prototype tests according to the international testing body, Intertek. To address this key issue of quality, we present an integrated, collaborative, modular architecture method for medical device design and development. A typical glucometer is used as proof of concept to demonstrate the methodology and analyze the impact of changing the customer ratings on the optimal number of modules and minimum deviation. The implication of this research is to generate scholarly work and to reduce the number of potential failure points in medical devices by determining the optimal number of modules.
Rogue-Elephant-Inflicted Panfacial Injuries: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Yadav Santosh Kumar , Shrestha Suraksha , Sapkota Srijana Mishra
Published: November 2012

Attacks by elephants, the largest of the “large animals,” produce many fatalities a year. Most attacks are provoked, although rogue elephants are occasionally responsible. Trampling, goring, tossing the individual with the trunk, or crushing with the knees produces the injuries. Injuries from encounters with large animals represent a significant health risk for rural communities. Wild-animal-inflicted maxillofacial injuries are rare, and limited literature is available describing their management. We present a case of severe maxillofacial injuries caused by the attack of a rogue elephant.
Segregation of Cu-In-S Elements in the Spray-Pyrolysis-Deposited Layer of CIS Solar Cells
Authors: Ito Seigo , Ryo Toshihiro
Published: November 2012

We report the fabrication of superstrate-structured solar cells by the deposition of Cu-In-S (CIS) films on〈glass/FTO/TiO2/In2S3〉under air by spray pyrolysis. The cells had an open-circuit voltage of 0.551 V, a photocurrent density of 9.5 mA/cm2, a fill factor of 0.45, and a conversion efficiency of 2.14%. However, transmission electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray (TEM-EDX) analysis revealed significant differences between the atomic ratio of the setting material in the spray-deposition solution and the elements in the layer. Moreover, TEM-EDX measurements suggested strong segregation of the Cu-In-S elements in the spray-pyrolysis-deposited layer. The degree of segregation depended on the substrate (〈glass〉,〈glass/TiO2〉, or〈glass/TiO2/In2S3〉), although Cu3In5S9nanoparticles were segregated in the sulfur layer.
FSI Simulation of Common Carotid under Normal and High Blood Pressures
Authors: Abdul Khader S. M. , Ayachit Anurag , Pai B. Raghuvir , Rao V. R. K. , Kamath S. Ganesh
Published: November 2012

There has been a tremendous progress in most of the computational domains in recent times. One of the key areas is analyzing the complex interaction of blood flow through elastic artery. Such study will aid in predicting the progression and behaviour of diseases like atherosclerosis and hypertension. In the present investigation, a simple straight common carotid artery having an eccentric blockage is analyzed for normal as well as high blood pressure condition. The clinical data has been obtained from ultrasound measurements on a volunteer patient and a model is generated, ANSYS, a commercially available Finite Element Analysis software. The ANSYS Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) solver is used to perform the coupled field transient analysis for three pulse cycles and the obtained results demonstrate the pulsatile flow. The simulation shows that the influence of hypertension has high deformation than normal case, severely altering the flow dynamics in downstream of the stenosis. The results obtained agree very well with available clinical observation of normal blood pressure condition.
The Reach of Depression Screening Preceding Treatment: Are There Patterns of Patients' Self-Selection?
Authors: Ajduković Dea , Pibernik-Okanović Mirjana , Šekerija Mario , Hermanns Norbert
Published: November 2012

This study evaluated the reach of depression screening followed by treatment programs for subsyndromal depression and explored demographic and clinical characteristics of patients who were reached versus those who were not. A two-item Patient Health Questionnaire-Depression was sent to 4196 type 2 diabetic patients. Positively screened patients were interviewed to assess the severity of depression, and those with subclinical symptoms were invited to treatment groups. The reach of screening procedure was evaluated by the total response rate, proportion of positive depression screenings, and proportion of eligible patients entering treatment programs. Predictors of responsiveness to screening and of participation in treatment were determined using logistic regression. Of the 34% of patients who returned the questionnaire (n=1442), 40% reported depressive symptoms and a need for professional help (n=581). Age (OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.05–1.08), BMI (OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 1.00–1.04), HbA1C (OR = .92, 95% CI = .86–.99), and LDL-cholesterol (OR = .90, 95% CI = .81–1.00) correlated with response to screening. Willingness to accept treatment was predicted by professional status (OR = 3.24, 95% CI = 1.53–6.87), education (OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.05–1.38), and BMI (OR = .91, 95% CI = .85–.98). Older patients with better diabetes control were more likely to be reached by postal screening for depressive symptoms. Professionally inactive, better-educated persons and those with lower BMI were more likely to participate in the intervention for subsyndromal depression.
Lung Dendritic Cell Developmental Programming, Environmental Stimuli, and Asthma in Early Periods of Life
Authors: Awasthi Shanjana , Singh Bhupinder , Welliver Robert C. , Dietert Rodney R.
Published: November 2012

Dendritic cells (DCs) are important cells of our innate immune system. Their role is critical in inducing adaptive immunity, tolerance, or allergic response in peripheral organs—lung and skin. The lung DCs are not developed prenatally before birth. The DCs develop after birth presumably during the first year of life; exposures to any foreign antigen or infectious organisms during this period can significantly affect DC developmental programming and generation of distinct DC phenotypes and functions. These changes can have both short-term and long-term health effects which may be very relevant in childhood asthma and predisposition for a persistent response in adulthood. An understanding of DC development at molecular and cellular levels can help in protecting neonates and infants against problematic environmental exposures and developmental immunotoxicity. This knowledge can eventually help in designing novel pharmacological modulators to skew the DC characteristics and immune responses to benefit the host across a lifetime.
On the Statistical Properties of Nakagami-Hoyt Vehicle-to-Vehicle Fading Channel under Nonisotropic Scattering
Authors: Akram Muhammad Imran , Sheikh Asrar U. H.
Published: November 2012

This paper presents the statistical properties of the vehicle-to-vehicle Nakagami-Hoyt (Nakagami-q) channel model under non-isotropic condition. The spatial time correlation function (STCF), the power spectral density (PSD), squared time autocorrelation function (SQCF), level crossing rate (LCR), and the average duration of Fade (ADF) of the Nakagami-Hoyt channel have been derived under the assumption that both the transmitter and receiver are nonstationary having nonomnidirectional antennas. A simulator that uses the inverse-fast-fourier-transform- (IFFT-) based computation method is designed for this model. The simulator and analytical results are compared.
Protein-Tyrosine Kinase Signaling in the Biological Functions Associated with Sperm
Authors: Ijiri Takashi W. , Mahbub Hasan A. K. M. , Sato Ken-ichi
Published: November 2012

In sexual reproduction, two gamete cells (i.e., egg and sperm) fuse (fertilization) to create a newborn with a genetic identity distinct from those of the parents. In the course of these developmental processes, a variety of signal transduction events occur simultaneously in each of the two gametes, as well as in the fertilized egg/zygote/early embryo. In particular, a growing body of knowledge suggests that the tyrosine kinase Src and/or other protein-tyrosine kinases are important elements that facilitate successful implementation of the aforementioned processes in many animal species. In this paper, we summarize recent findings on the roles of protein-tyrosine phosphorylation in many sperm-related processes (from spermatogenesis to epididymal maturation, capacitation, acrosomal exocytosis, and fertilization).
Family History of Autoimmune Disease in Patients with Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome
Authors: Schmidt Johanna L. , Olivieri Ivana , Vento Jodie M. , Fazzi Elisa , Gordish-Dressman Heather , Orcesi Simona , Vanderver Adeline
Published: November 2012

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to explore anecdotal evidence for an increase in the prevalence of autoimmune diseases in family members of patients with Aicardi-Goutières syndrome (AGS).Methods. Pedigrees of patients and controls were analyzed using chi-square and logistic regression to assess differences in reports of autoimmune disease among family members of cases and controls. Data was collected at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC, USA and at the International Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome Association Scientific Headquarters, C. Mondino National Institute of Neurology in Pavia, Italy.Results. The number of individuals with reported autoimmune disease is significantly related to having a family member with AGS (χ2=6.25,P=0.01); 10% (35/320) of relatives of patients with AGS had a reported autoimmune disease diagnosis compared to 5% (18/344) of relatives of controls. There was a greater percent of maternal relatives of patients with AGS reporting autoimmune disease (14.6%), compared to controls (6.8%), with the association being statistically significant. The association was not significant for paternal relatives.Conclusion. The prevalence of autoimmune disease in relatives of children with AGS is significantly increased compared to controls. More research is needed to better understand this association.
Rupture of Ovarian Pregnancy in a Woman with Low Beta-hCG Levels
Authors: Resta Serena , Fuggetta Eliana , D’Itri Federica , Evangelista Simona , Ticino Adele , Porpora Maria Grazia
Published: November 2012

Background. Ovarian pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy. It is often difficult to distinguish from tubal pregnancy, and diagnosis and management are frequently a challenge.Case. A 33-year-old nulligravida woman presented with light vaginal bleeding and bilateral lower quadrants abdominal pain. Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) level (592 mUI/mL) and clinical and ultrasound (US) findings were suspicious for tubal pregnancy. On the third day, despite beta-hCG decrease (364 mUI/mL), she complained of severe pain in the lower abdomen, and physical examination revealed abdominal rebound tenderness. US showed a large amount of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Because of the unstable clinical condition, emergency laparoscopy and resection of left ovarian ectopic pregnancy were performed. Histology confirmed ovarian gestation.Conclusion. This case shows that ectopic pregnancy rupture may occur despite low levels of beta-hCG. Hemoperitoneum is not contraindication to laparoscopy.
Acute-Phase Inflammatory Response in Idiopathic Sudden Deafness: Pathogenic Implications
Authors: López-González Miguel A. , Abrante Antonio , López-Lorente Carmen , Gómez Antonio , Domínguez Emilio , Esteban Francisco
Published: November 2012

The acute-phase inflammatory response in the peripheral bloodstream can be an expression of transient cerebral ischaemia in idiopathic sudden deafness. For this, a neurological and otorhinolaryngological examination of each patient, performing tests on audiometry, and tympanometry, haemogram, and cranial magnetic resonance were performed. The acute-phase inflammatory response manifests as an increased neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio that is detected 48–72 hours after the appearance of sudden deafness. This study shows that there is an acute-phase response in the peripheral bloodstream with an increased neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio as an expression of an inflammatory process that can be caused by transient cerebral ischaemia in sudden deafness. In addition, the increased neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio can rule out a viral origin of sudden deafness, since a viral infection lowers the neutrophil count and increases the lymphocyte count, thus reducing the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio. These findings aid in understanding the pathogenic mechanisms involved in sudden deafness and offer better treatment to the patient.
Asymptotic Properties of G‐Expansive Homeomorphisms on a Metric G‐Space
Authors: Das Ruchi , Das Tarun
Published: November 2012

We define and study the notions of positively and negatively G‐asymptotic points for a homeomorphism on a metric G‐space. We obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for two points to be positively/negatively G‐asymptotic. Also, we show that the problem of studying G‐expansive homeomorphisms on a bounded subset of a normed linear G‐space is equivalent to the problem of studying linear G‐expansive homeomorphisms on a bounded subset of another normed linear G‐space.
Anti-Apolipoprotein A-1 IgG Levels Predict Coronary Artery Calcification in Obese but Otherwise Healthy Individuals
Authors: Quercioli Alessandra , Montecucco Fabrizio , Galan Katia , Ratib Osman , Roux-Lombard Pascale , Pagano Sabrina , Mach François , Schindler Thomas H. , Vuilleumier Nicolas
Published: November 2012

We aimed at determining whether anti-apolipoprotein (apo) A-1 IgG levels are independent predictors of coronary artery calcification (CAC) and coronary endothelial dysfunction in obese and nonobese subjects without cardiovascular disease. 48 nonobese and 43 obese subjects were included. CAC score was measured by thorax scanner and defined by an Agatston score > 0. Coronary endothelial dysfunction was determined by measuring myocardial blood flow responses to cold pressor test (CPT) on PET/CT. Serum anti-apoA-1 IgG levels were measured by ELISA. Prevalence of coronary calcification was similar between the two study groups, but the prevalence of coronary endothelial dysfunction was higher in obese subjects. Anti-apoA-1 IgG levels and positivity rate were higher in obese than in nonobese individuals. CAC score was higher in anti-apoA-1 IgG positive subjects. ROC analyses indicated that anti-apoA-1 IgG levels were significant predictors of CAC > 0, but not of coronary endothelial dysfunction with a negative predictive value of 94%. Anti-apoA-1 IgG positivity was associated with a 17-fold independent increased risk of CAC > 0. In conclusion, those preliminary results indicate that anti-apoA-1 IgG autoantibodies are raised in obese subjects and independently predict the presence of coronary calcification in this population but not the presence of coronary endothelial dysfunction.
A Successful Collagenase and Hyaluronic Acid Topical Use Combined with Antibiotic Therapy in the Treatment of Ulcerative Lesions Arising on Tattoo
Authors: Fioramonti Paolo , Fino Pasquale , Ruggieri Martina , Scuderi Nicolò , Onesti Maria Giuseppina
Published: November 2012

Tattooing is an ancient art widely practiced allover the world. The procedure used in making a tattoo consists of puncturing the dermis and depositing an amount of ink, but this decorative technique is not devoid of potential adverse effects, such as infectious complications, hypersensitivity reactions to pigments (lichenoid and granulomatous reactions), the development of benign or malignant tumors, and chronic dermatoses on site of the tattoo. We report an unusual complication which arose on a colorful tattoo and the innovative use of collagenase (Bionect Start) to treat it. With conservative treatment and the use of Bionect Start, we obtained complete resolution and reepithelialization of the lesions, in addition to perfect preservation of the colors of the tattoo.
Tophaceous Gout of the Patella: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Hopper Graeme , Gupta Sanjay , Bethapudi Sarath , Ritchie David , MacDuff Elaine , Mahendra Ashish
Published: November 2012

Introduction. Tophaceous gout of the patella is rare and may masquerade as a tumour or tumour-like condition.Cases. We report two patients with gout involving the patella, one complicated by a pathological fracture and the other occurring in a bipartite patella in a young adult.Discussion. Typical imaging appearances and measurement of serum urate will usually confirm the diagnosis but, occasionally, the serum urate level may be normal in active gout and in such cases, a biopsy will be required.Conclusion. Gout of the patella may masquerade as a tumour or tumour-like condition and it is important to consider gout in the differential diagnosis.
Use of Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography to Classify Filling of Alveolar Bone Grafting
Authors: Forte Antonio Jorge V. , da Silva Freitas Renato , Alonso Nivaldo
Published: November 2012

Several authors have proposed classifications to analyze the quality over time of secondary alveolar bone grafting. However, little discussion has been held to quantitatively measure the secondary bone grafting for correction of nasal deformity associated to cleft palate and lip. Twenty patients with unilateral alveolar cleft, who underwent secondary alveolar bone grafting, were studied with 3D computer tomography. The height between the inferior portion of the pyriform aperture and the incisal border of the unaffected side (height A) and the affected side (height B) was measured using a software Mirror. A percentage was then obtained dividing the height B by the height A and classified into grades I, II, and III if the value was greater than 67%, between 34% and 66%, or less than 33%. Age, time of followup, initial operation, and age of canine eruption were also recorded. All patients presented appropriate occlusion and function. Mean time of followup was 7 years, and mean initial age for operation was 10 years old. 16 patients were rated as grade I and 4 patients as grade II. No cases had grade III. We present a new grading system that can be used to assess the success of secondary bone grafting in patients who underwent alveolar cleft repair.
The Cytotoxicity Mechanism of 6-Shogaol-Treated HeLa Human Cervical Cancer Cells Revealed by Label-Free Shotgun Proteomics and Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Liu Qun , Peng Yong-Bo , Qi Lian-Wen , Cheng Xiao-Lan , Xu Xiao-Jun , Liu Le-Le , Liu E-Hu , Li Ping
Published: November 2012

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in the world. 6-Shogaol is a natural compound isolated from the rhizome of ginger (Zingiber officinale). In this paper, we demonstrated that 6-shogaol induced apoptosis and G2/M phase arrest in human cervical cancer HeLa cells. Endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial pathway were involved in 6-shogaol-mediated apoptosis. Proteomic analysis based on label-free strategy by liquid chromatography chip quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry was subsequently proposed to identify, in a non-target-biased manner, the molecular changes in cellular proteins in response to 6-shogaol treatment. A total of 287 proteins were differentially expressed in response to 24 h treatment with 15μM 6-shogaol in HeLa cells. Significantly changed proteins were subjected to functional pathway analysis by multiple analyzing software. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) suggested that 14-3-3 signaling is a predominant canonical pathway involved in networks which may be significantly associated with the process of apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest induced by 6-shogaol. In conclusion, this work developed an unbiased protein analysis strategy by shotgun proteomics and bioinformatics analysis. Data observed provide a comprehensive analysis of the 6-shogaol-treated HeLa cell proteome and reveal protein alterations that are associated with its anticancer mechanism.
Weighted Hardy Operators in Complementary Morrey Spaces
Authors: Lukkassen Dag , Persson Lars-Erik , Samko Stefan
Published: November 2012

We study the weightedp→q-boundedness of the multidimensional weighted Hardy-type operatorsHwαandℋwαwith radial type weightw=w(|x|), in the generalized complementary Morrey spacesℒ∁{0}p,ψ(ℝn)defined by an almost increasing functionψ=ψ(r). We prove a theorem which provides conditions, in terms of some integral inequalities imposed onψandw, for such a boundedness. These conditions are sufficient in the general case, but we prove that they are also necessary when the functionψand the weightware power functions. We also prove that the spacesℒ∁{0}p,ψ(Ω)over bounded domains Ω are embedded between weighted Lebesgue spaceLpwith the weightψand such a space with the weightψ, perturbed by a logarithmic factor. Both the embeddings are sharp.
An Allocation Scheme for Estimating the Reliability of a Parallel-Series System
Authors: Benkamra Zohra , Terbeche Mekki , Tlemcani Mounir
Published: November 2012

We give a hybrid two-stage design which can be useful to estimate the reliability of a parallel-series and/or by duality a series-parallel system. When the components' reliabilities are unknown, one can estimate them by sample means of Bernoulli observations. Let T be the total number of observations allowed for the system. When T is fixed, we show that the variance of the system reliability estimate can be lowered by allocation of the sample size T at components' level. This leads to a discrete optimization problem which can be solved sequentially, assuming T is large enough. First-order asymptotic optimality is proved systematically and validated T Monte Carlo simulation.
Morphological Characterization of the Polyflux 210H Hemodialysis Filter Pores
Authors: Hedayat A. , Szpunar J. , Kumar N. A. P. Kiran , Peace R. , Elmoselhi H. , Shoker A.
Published: November 2012

Background. Morphological characterization of hemodialysis membranes is necessary to improve pore design.Aim. To delineate membrane pore structure of a high flux filter, Polyflux 210H.Methods. We used a Joel JSM-6010LV scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a SU6600 Hitachi field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) to characterize the pore and fiber morphology. The maximal diameters of selected uremic toxins were calculated using the macromolecular modeling Crystallographic Object-Oriented Toolkit (COOT) software.Results. The mean pore densities on the outermost and innermost surfaces of the membrane were 36.81% and 5.45%, respectively. The membrane exhibited a tortuous structure with poor connection between the inner and outer pores. The aperture’s width in the inner surface ranged between 34 and 45 nm, which is 8.76–11.60 times larger than the estimated maximum diameter ofβ2-microglobulin (3.88 nm).Conclusion. The results suggest that the diameter size of inner pore apertures is not a limiting factor to middle molecules clearance, the extremely diminished density is. Increasing inner pore density and improving channel structure are strategies to improve clearance of middle molecules.
A 125 GeV Higgs and Its Diphoton Signal in Different SUSY Models: A Mini Review
Authors: Heng Zhaoxia
Published: November 2012

In this paper we briefly review our recent studies on a 125 GeV Higgs and its diphoton signal rate in different low-energy supersymmetric models, namely, the minimal supersymmetric standard model (MSSM), the next-to-minimal supersymmetric standard model (NMSSM), the nearly minimal supersymmetric standard model (nMSSM), and the constrained MSSM. Our conclusion is as follows (i) in the allowed parameter space the SM-like Higgs boson can easily be 125 GeV in the MSSM, NMSSM, and nMSSM, while it is hard to realize in the constrained MSSM; (ii) the diphoton Higgs signal rate in the nMSSM and constrained MSSM is suppressed relative to the prediction of the SM, while the signal rate can be enhanced in the MSSM and NMSSM; (iii) the NMSSM may allow for a lighter top squark than the MSSM, which can thus ameliorate the fine-tuning problem.
Severe Hydronephrosis and Dysuria-Hematuria Syndrome after 20 Years of Bladder Exstrophy Correction: A Case Report
Authors: Altobelli Emanuela , Bove Alfredo Maria , Sergi Federico , Zullo Marzio Angelo , Buscarini Maurizio
Published: November 2012

The aim of this paper is to report a case of severe hydronephrosis and incontinence 20 years after bladder exstrophy repair, managed successfully by secondary ureteroneocystostomy and by transurethral submucosal injection of Macroplastique.
Resonance Fluorescence of Fused Silica by the Depopulation of the Ground State
Authors: Bayrakceken Fuat , Yegin Korkut
Published: November 2012

Spectroscopically pure fused silica has been used in many applications ranging from optoelectronics and optical fibers to laser flash spectroscopy. Although ultraviolet light irradiated optical absorption spectra and coherence fluorescence of silicon dioxide have been studied in the past, we present discrete absorption and resonance coherent fluorescence line of silicon dioxide which were recorded photographically at 288.2 nm. This discrete fluorescence is observed at room temperature using high photon flux (1024photon/pulse) excitation spectroscopy.
Investigations on Oil Flow Rates Projected on the Casing Walls by Splashed Lubricated Gears
Authors: Leprince G. , Changenet C. , Ville F. , Velex P.
Published: November 2012

In order to investigate the oil projected by gears rotating in an oil bath, a test rig has been set up in which the quantity of lubricant splashed at several locations on the casing walls can be measured. An oblong-shaped window of variable size is connected to a tank for flow measurements, and the system can be placed at several locations. A series of formulae have been deduced using dimensional analysis which can predict the lubricant flow rate generated by one spur gear or one disk at various places on the casing. These results have been experimentally validated over a wide range of operating conditions (rotational speed, geometry, immersion depth, etc.).
Balanophora spicataand Lupeol Acetate Possess Antinociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory ActivitiesIn VivoandIn Vitro
Authors: Chen Yuh-Fung , Ching Chien , Wu Tian-Shung , Wu Chi-Rei , Hsieh Wen-Tsong , Tsai Huei-Yann
Published: November 2012

Aims of the present study were to investigate effects ofBalanophora spicata(BS) on antinociception and anti-inflammation bothin vivoandin vitro. Crude extract of BS inhibited vascular permeability induced by histamine, serotonin, bradykinin, and PGE2, but not by PAF. Furthermore, BS crude extract, different layers (n-hexane, ethyl acetate,n-butanol, and water layer), and lupeol acetate had significant antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects on acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing response, formalin-induced licking behavior, carrageenan-, and serotonin-induced paw edema. Then-hexane layer had the most effective potency among all layers (IC50: 67.33 mg/kg on writhing response; IC50s: 34.2 mg/kg and 21.29 mg/kg on the early phase and late phase of formalin test, resp.). Additionally, lupeol acetate which was isolated from then-hexane layer of BS effectively inhibited the acetic acid-induced writhing response (IC50: 28.32 mg/kg), formalin-induced licking behavior (IC50: 20.95 mg/kg), NO production (IC50: 4.102 μM), iNOS expression (IC50: 5.35 μM), and COX2 expression (IC50: 5.13 μM) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. In conclusion, BS has antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects which may be partially due to the inhibition of changes in vascular permeability induced by histamine, serotonin, bradykinin, and PGE2and the attenuation of iNOS and COX-2 expression.
A Simulation Study of the Radiation-Induced Bystander Effect: Modeling with Stochastically Defined Signal Reemission
Authors: Sasaki Kohei , Wakui Kosuke , Tsutsumi Kaori , Itoh Akio , Date Hiroyuki
Published: November 2012

The radiation-induced bystander effect (RIBE) has been experimentally observed for different types of radiation, cell types, and cell culture conditions. However, the behavior of signal transmission between unirradiated and irradiated cells is not well known. In this study, we have developed a new model for RIBE based on the diffusion of soluble factors in cell cultures using a Monte Carlo technique. The model involves the signal emission probability from bystander cells following Poisson statistics. Simulations with this model show that the spatial configuration of the bystander cells agrees well with that of corresponding experiments, where the optimal emission probability is estimated through a large number of simulation runs. It was suggested that the most likely probability falls within 0.63–0.92 for mean number of the emission signals ranging from 1.0 to 2.5.
An Unusual Presentation of Pelvic Leiomyomatosis Misdiagnosed as Disseminated Malignancy
Authors: Marwah Nisha , Duhan Amrita , Aggarwal Garima , Sen Rajeev
Published: November 2012

Leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata (LPD) is an exceedingly rare, usually benign condition that clinically simulates a disseminated malignancy, occurring predominantly in women of childbearing age. We present a case of LPD in a postmenopausal woman who had undergone hysterectomy 8 years back for fibroids along with simultaneous presence of pelvic metastasis from breast carcinoma.
Parasitic-Element-Loaded UWB Antenna with Band-Stop Function for Mobile Handset Wireless USB
Authors: Lim Yohan , Yoon Young Joong , Jung Byungwoon
Published: November 2012

A UWB antenna loaded by parasitic elements for wireless USB of mobile handsets is proposed for UWB service in which a band-stop function of 5.725–5.825 GHz WLAN band is required. Two kinds of parasitic elements are incorporated into a rectangular radiator to obtain enhanced impedance bandwidth and band-stop function. The proposed antenna is very compact in size. Wide bandwidths of 3.15–4.75 GHz and 7.2–10.2 GHz are achieved while 5.725–5.825 GHz is notched. Three different shapes of conventional mobile terminals are also considered for measurement.
Left Internal Mammary Artery Injury Requiring Resuscitative Thoracotomy: A Case Presentation and Review of the Literature
Authors: Al Hassani Ammar , Abdul Rahman Yassir , Kanbar Ahad , El-Menyar Ayman , Al-Aieb Abubaker , Asim Mohammad , Latifi Rifat
Published: November 2012

Background. Penetrating injuries to the chest and in particular to the heart that results in pericardial tamponade and cardiac arrest requires immediate resuscitative thoracotomy as the only lifesaving technique and should be performed without delay.Objective. To describe an external cardiac tamponade caused by massive tension hemothorax from penetrating injury of the left internal mammary artery (LIMA).Method. A case presentation treated at the Level I trauma center at Hamad General Hospital, in Doha, Qatar and review of the literature on LIMA injuries reported cases.Results. LIMA injury as a cause of hemothorax is not uncommon, but to our knowledge our case is the first massive tension hemothorax with witnessed cardiac arrest reported in the literature requiring emergency thoracotomy, performed in trauma room, with full recovery.Conclusion. Injury to the LIMA with massive tension hemothorax requires immediate resuscitative thoracotomy.
Modified Firefly Algorithm
Authors: Tilahun Surafel Luleseged , Ong Hong Choon
Published: November 2012

Firefly algorithm is one of the new metaheuristic algorithms for optimization problems. The algorithm is inspired by the flashing behavior of fireflies. In the algorithm, randomly generated solutions will be considered as fireflies, and brightness is assigned depending on their performance on the objective function. One of the rules used to construct the algorithm is, a firefly will be attracted to a brighter firefly, and if there is no brighter firefly, it will move randomly. In this paper we modify this random movement of the brighter firefly by generating random directions in order to determine the best direction in which the brightness increases. If such a direction is not generated, it will remain in its current position. Furthermore the assignment of attractiveness is modified in such a way that the effect of the objective function is magnified. From the simulation result it is shown that the modified firefly algorithm performs better than the standard one in finding the best solution with smaller CPU time.
CT and MRI Findings of Hepatic Involvement in Rendu-Osler-Weber Disease
Authors: Bilgin Mehmet , Yildiz Seyma , Toprak Huseyin , Ahmad Issam Cheikh , Kocakoc Ercan
Published: November 2012

Rendu-Osler-Weber disease is a rare autosomal dominant disorder. Hepatic involvement manifests itself as vascular, parenchymal, and biliary lesions with characteristic telangiectasias and vascular shunts. In a 37-year-old female patient, dynamic contrast-enhanced upper abdominal CT and MRI were performed. CT and MRI revealed dilated celiac trunk and hepatic artery. On early arterial phase, dilated hepatic veins showed significant enhancement. On arterial and portal venous phases, liver showed significantly heterogeneous contrast enhancement and showed homogenous enhancement in the hepatic parenchymal phase. On the magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, irregular biliary ducts with strictures and dilatation were seen.
Strong and Weak Convergence Theorems for Equilibrium Problems and Weak Relatively Uniformly Nonexpansive Multivalued Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: Wang Zi-Ming
Published: November 2012

Equilibrium problem and fixed point problem are considered. A general iterative algorithm is introduced for finding a common element of the set of solutions to the equilibrium problem and the common set of fixed points of two weak relatively uniformly nonexpansive multivalued mappings. Furthermore, strong and weak convergence results for the common element in the two sets mentioned above are established in some Banach space.
A Convolution Approach on Partial Sums of Certain Harmonic Univalent Functions
Authors: Porwal Saurabh
Published: November 2012

The purpose of the present paper is to establish some new results giving the sharp bounds of the real parts of ratios of harmonic univalent functions to their sequences of partial sums by using convolution. Relevant connections of the results presented here with various known results are briefly indicated.
The Role of Src Kinase in Macrophage-Mediated Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Byeon Se Eun , Yi Young-Su , Oh Jueun , Yoo Byong Chul , Hong Sungyoul , Cho Jae Youl
Published: November 2012

Src kinase (Src) is a tyrosine protein kinase that regulates cellular metabolism, survival, and proliferation. Many studies have shown that Src plays multiple roles in macrophage-mediated innate immunity, such as phagocytosis, the production of inflammatory cytokines/mediators, and the induction of cellular migration, which strongly implies that Src plays a pivotal role in the functional activation of macrophages. Macrophages are involved in a variety of immune responses and in inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, diabetes, obesity, cancer, and osteoporosis. Previous studies have suggested roles for Src in macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses; however, recently, new functions for Src have been reported, implying that Src functions in macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses that have not been described. In this paper, we discuss recent studies regarding a number of these newly defined functions of Src in macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses. Moreover, we discuss the feasibility of Src as a target for the development of new pharmaceutical drugs to treat macrophage-mediated inflammatory diseases. We provide insights into recent reports regarding new functions for Src that are related to macrophage-related inflammatory responses and the development of novel Src inhibitors with strong immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties, which could be applied to various macrophage-mediated inflammatory diseases.
Cracked Tooth: A Report of Two Cases and Role of Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Diagnosis
Authors: Kalyan Chakravarthy Pishipati Vinayak , Telang Lahari Ajay , Nerali Jayashri , Telang Ajay
Published: November 2012

Cracked tooth is a distinct type of longitudinal tooth fracture which occurs very commonly and its diagnosis can be challenging. This type of fracture tends to grow and change over time. Clinical diagnosis is difficult because the signs and symptoms are variable or nonspecific and may even resemble post-treatment disease following root canal treatment or periodontal disease. This variety and unpredictability make the cracked tooth a challenging diagnostic entity. The use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in diagnosis of complex endodontic cases has been well documented in the literature. In this paper we present two cases of cracked tooth and emphasise on the timely use of cone beam computed tomography as an aid in diagnosis and as a prognostic determinant.
Resistive Ferroresonance Limiter for Potential Transformers
Authors: Radmanesh Hamid , Gharehpetian G. B. , Fathi Hamid
Published: November 2012

The ferroresonance or nonlinear resonance is a complex phenomenon, which may cause overvoltage in the electrical power system and endangers the system reliability and operation. The ability to predict the ferroresonance in the transformer depends on the accuracy of the transformer model used. In this paper, the effect of the new suggested ferroresonance limiter on the control of the chaotic ferroresonance and duration of chaotic transients in a potential transformer including nonlinear core losses is studied. To study the proposed ferroresonance limiter, a single phase 100 VA, 275 kV potential transformer is simulated. The magnetization characteristic of the potential transformer is modeled by a single-value two-term polynomial. The core losses are modeled by third order power series in terms of voltage and include core nonlinearities. The simulation results show that the ferroresonance limiter has a considerable effect on the ferroresonance overvoltage.
An Adaptive Lossless Data Compression Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Kolo Jonathan Gana , Shanmugam S. Anandan , Lim David Wee Gin , Ang Li-Minn , Seng Kah Phooi
Published: November 2012

Energy is an important consideration in the design and deployment of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) since sensor nodes are typically powered by batteries with limited capacity. Since the communication unit on a wireless sensor node is the major power consumer, data compression is one of possible techniques that can help reduce the amount of data exchanged between wireless sensor nodes resulting in power saving. However, wireless sensor networks possess significant limitations in communication, processing, storage, bandwidth, and power. Thus, any data compression scheme proposed for WSNs must be lightweight. In this paper, we present an adaptive lossless data compression (ALDC) algorithm for wireless sensor networks. Our proposed ALDC scheme performs compression losslessly using multiple code options. Adaptive compression schemes allow compression to dynamically adjust to a changing source. The data sequence to be compressed is partitioned into blocks, and the optimal compression scheme is applied for each block. Using various real-world sensor datasets we demonstrate the merits of our proposed compression algorithm in comparison with other recently proposed lossless compression algorithms for WSNs.
Some Results on Strictly Pseudocontractive Nonself‐Mappings and Equilibrium Problems in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Hao Yan , Cho Sun Young
Published: November 2012

An equilibrium problem and a strictly pseudocontractive nonself‐mapping are investigated. Strong convergence theorems of common elements are established based on hybrid projection algorithms in the framework of real Hilbert spaces.
ILP Model and Relaxation-Based Decomposition Approach for Incremental Topology Optimization inp-Cycle Networks
Authors: Noor-E-Alam Md. , Zaky Kasem Ahmed , Doucette John
Published: November 2012

p-cycle networks have attracted a considerable interest in the network survivability literature in recent years. However, most of the existing work assumes a known network topology upon which to applyp-cycle restoration. In the present work, we develop an incremental topology optimization ILP forp-cycle network design, where a known topology can be amended with new fibre links selected from a set of eligible spans. The ILP proves to be relatively easy to solve for small test case instances but becomes computationally intensive on larger networks. We then follow with a relaxation-based decomposition approach to overcome this challenge. The decomposition approach significantly reduces computational complexity of the problem, allowing the ILP to be solved in reasonable time with no statistically significant impact on solution optimality.
Familial Florid Cemento-Osseous Dysplasia: A Rare Manifestation in an Indian Family
Authors: Srivastava Adit , Agarwal Rahul , Soni Romesh , Sachan Avesh , Shivakumar G. C. , Chaturvedi T. P.
Published: November 2012

Florid cemento-osseous dysplasia (FCOD) is one of the uncommon dysplasias affecting the maxillofacial region. The age group may vary from 19 to 76 years and typically presents in the 4th and 5th decades. In most cases patients do not have hereditary basis of disease, and only a few familial cases have been documented. As far as we know this is the 1st reported case of familial FCOD in an Indian family. The mother and son exhibited multiple sclerotic masses in both jaws. The mode of transmission appeared to be autosomal dominant with variable phenotypic expression.
Delay‐Dependent Guaranteed Cost Controller Design for Uncertain Neural Networks with Interval Time‐Varying Delay
Authors: Rajchakit M. , Niamsup P. , Rojsiraphisal T. , Rajchakit G.
Published: November 2012

This paper studies the problem of guaranteed cost control for a class of uncertain
delayed neural networks. The time delay is a continuous function belonging to a given
interval but not necessary to be differentiable. A cost function is considered as a
nonlinear performance measure for the closed‐loop system. The stabilizing controllers
to be designed must satisfy some exponential stability constraints on the closed‐loop
poles. By constructing a set of augmented Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functionals combined
with Newton‐Leibniz formula, a guaranteed cost controller is designed via memoryless
state feedback control, and new sufficient conditions for the existence of the guaranteed
cost state feedback for the system are given in terms of linear matrix inequalities
(LMIs). Numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained
result.
Hearing Loss due to Infiltration of the Tympanic Membrane by Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Cohen Jonathon B. , Cavaliere Robert , Byrd John C. , Andritsos Leslie A.
Published: November 2012

Central nervous system (CNS) involvement by chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) can present with dramatic neurologic findings or can be quite subtle, discovered only at the time of autopsy. We describe a case of CLL in a patient who presented initially with hearing loss and was ultimately found to have involvement of the tympanic membrane. She noted improvement of her hearing after induction therapy but was not aware at the time of the involvement of her CNS with CLL. Upon worsening of hearing at the time of relapse, she was evaluated by imaging and CSF analysis as well as biopsy of the tympanic membrane, and involvement of the CNS was confirmed. She has received CNS-directed therapy with intrathecal liposomal cytarabine and intravenous CNS-directed therapy and has noted improved hearing and resolution of her imaging and CSF findings. This is the first reported case of tympanic membrane involvement with CLL and describes potentially effective methods for managing this challenging complication.
A Case of Giant Hepatic Hydatid Cyst Infected withMorganella morganiiand the Literature Review
Authors: Hakyemez Ismail Necati , Sit Mustafa , Aktas Gulali , Tas Tekin , Mengeloglu Fırat Zafer , Kucukbayrak Abdulkadir
Published: November 2012

Hydatid cyst disease is a common worldwide zoonosis. Most of the cysts are located in the liver. Abscess formation due to infection of the cyst is an important complication.M. morganii,a Gram-negativeBacillus, is a quite rare cause of liver abscess. A 77-year-old woman was admitted to hospital with complaints of fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain located in the right-upper quadrant. Her history was positive for hepatic hydatid cyst disease ten years ago. Physical examination revealed a painful mass filling the right-upper quadrant and extending down to umbilicus. Indirect hemagglutinin test for hydatid cyst was positive at a titer of 1/320. Giant liver abscess due to infected hydatid cyst was found in computed tomography scan. Surgeons performed cystectomy and cholecystectomy. Cefazoline, cefuroxime, and metronidazole were administered empirically, but all the three agents were replaced with intravenous ceftriaxone afterM. morganiiwas isolated from the cultures of the abscess material. Clinical signs of the patient resolved at the second week of treatment, and she was discharged.
Primary Hydatid Cyst of the Kidney and Ureter with Hydatiduria in a Laboratory Worker: A Case Report
Authors: Seetharam Venkatesh , Khanna Vinay , Jaiprakash Padmapriya , Kosaraju Kranthi , Thomas Joseph , Mukhopadhayay Chiranjay
Published: November 2012

Hydatid disease is frequent in endemic regions and sheep farming areas. Most common localization of hydatid cyst occurs in liver followed by lungs. Renal hydatid cyst constitutes about 2–4% of all locations. We report a case of left renal hydatid from a laboratory technician admitted in a tertiary care hospital. There were few cases of renal hydatid disease reported in India among general population but to the best of our knowledge never reported from laboratory worker. The possibility of laboratory-acquired infection cannot be ruled out in this case due to lack of precautionary measures and containment facilities in resource-constrained setting.
Broadband Equivalent Circuit Model for a Coplanar Waveguide Line Loaded with Split Ring Resonators
Authors: Sanz Victor , Belenguer Angel , Borja Alejandro L. , Cascon Joaquin , Esteban Hector , Boria Vicente E.
Published: November 2012

A new equivalent circuit for a coplanar waveguide loaded with split ring resonators is presented. The traditional circuits that model these devices are only able to characterize the left-handed propagation band, and their response is very similar to the real one within a very limited bandwidth. In contrast, this proposed broadband equivalent circuit is able to portray not only the left-handed propagation band, but also the right-handed one that occurs at higher frequencies. Besides, the response of this kind of basic cells can be adjusted with the proposed circuit model in a bandwidth close to a decade.
Osteochondritis of the Distal Tibial Epiphysis
Authors: EL Hajj Firass , Sebaaly Amer , Kharrat Khalil , Ghanem Ismat
Published: November 2012

Osteochondritis of the distal tibial epiphysis is a very rare entity. 9 cases have been described in 7 articles and 8 other cases have been mentioned in textbooks. This paper describes the 10th case of osteochondritis of the distal tibial epiphysis and summarizes the clinical and radiological presentations of the 9 other cases. The etiology of this entity is well debated in the literature. We believe that it results from a vascular abnormality in the distal tibial epiphysis associated with a mechanical stress (trauma, excessive overload, etc.). Since it is a self-limited disease, the prognosis is good and the younger the patient is the better the prognosis will be. In general, this entity responds well to conservative treatment.