bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rare Case of Lateral Sinus Thrombosis with Carotid Space Abscess
Authors: Singh Gautam Bir , Rai Anil K. , Singh Sarvejeet , Sinha Mukul
Published: October 2012

This case report describes a case of carotid space abscess secondary to lateral sinus thrombosis associated with internal jugular vein thrombosis. With this case, we illustrate a rare entity that presented in an extremely rare manner. To the authors knowledge such a case has not been previously reported.
Study of Nanostructured Polymeric Composites Used for Organic Light Emitting Diodes and Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Dinh Nguyen Nang , Chung Do Ngoc , Thao Tran Thi , Hui David
Published: October 2012

Polymeric nanocomposite films from PEDOT and MEH‐PPV embedded with surface modified TiO2 nanoparticles for the hole transport layer and emission layer were prepared, respectively, for organic emitting diodes (OLEDs). The composite of MEH‐PPV+nc‐TiO2 was used for organic solar cells (OSCs). The characterization of these nanocomposites and devices showed that electrical (I‐V characteristics) and spectroscopic (photoluminescent) properties of conjugate polymers were enhanced by the incorporation of nc‐TiO2 in the polymers. The organic light emitting diodes made from the nanocomposite films would exhibit a larger photonic efficiency and a longer lasting life. For the organic solar cells made from MEH‐PPV+nc‐TiO2 composite, a fill factor reached a value of about 0.34. Under illumination by light with a power density of 50 mW/cm2, the photoelectrical conversion efficiency was about 0.15% corresponding to an open circuit voltage Voc = 0.126 V and a shortcut circuit current density Jsc = 1.18 mA/cm2.
Excluded-Mean-Variance Neural Decision Analyzer for Qualitative Group Decision Making
Authors: Song Ki-Young , Kozinski Janusz , Seniuk Gerald T. G. , Gupta Madan M.
Published: October 2012

Many qualitative group decisions in professional fields such as law, engineering, economics, psychology, and medicine that appear to be crisp and certain are in reality shrouded in fuzziness as a result of uncertain environments and the nature of human cognition within which the group decisions are made. In this paper we introduce an innovative approach to group decision making in uncertain situations by using a mean-variance neural approach. The key idea of this proposed approach is to compute the excluded mean of individual evaluations and weight it by applying a variance influence function (VIF); this process of weighting the excluded mean by VIF provides an improved result in the group decision making. In this paper, a case study with the proposed excluded-mean-variance approach is also presented. The results of this case study indicate that this proposed approach can improve the effectiveness of qualitative decision making by providing the decision maker with a new cognitive tool to assist in the reasoning process.
Sex Steroids and Bone Health Status in Men
Authors: Chin Kok-Yong , Ima-Nirwana Soelaiman
Published: October 2012

Male osteoporosis is a health problem which deserves more attention as nearly 30% of osteoporotic fractures happen in men aged 50 years and above. Although men do not experience an accelerated bone loss phase and testosterone deficiency is not a universal characteristic for aged men, osteoporosis due to age-related testosterone deficiency does have a negative impact on bone health status of men. Observations from epidemiological studies indicate that elderly men with higher testosterone can preserve their BMD better and thus are less prone to fracture. Observations on men with estrogen resistance or aromatase deficiency indicate that estrogen is equally important in the maintenance of bone health status. This had been validated in several epidemiological studies which found that the relationships between estrogen and bone health indices are significant and sometimes stronger than testosterone. Studies on the relationship between quantitative ultrasound and bone remodeling markers suggest that testosterone and estrogen may have differential effects on bone, but further evidence was needed. In conclusion, both testosterone and estrogen are important in the maintenance of bone health in men.
Lymphoepithelioma-Like Carcinoma of the Skin Treated with Wide Local Excision and Chemoradiation Therapy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gille Theresa M. , Miles Edward F. , Mitchell Allen O.
Published: October 2012

Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the skin (LELCS) is a rare cutaneous neoplasm microscopically similar to undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma. It is typically nonaggressive and is treated with wide local excision. However, we present a case of a patient with a regional recurrence and more aggressive LELCS with perineural invasion and positive margins for which he was treated with wide local excision followed by chemoradiation. We discuss the use of chemoradiation for this patient and review the literature, specifically pertaining to treatment of more aggressive cases of LELCS.
Error Analysis of Galerkin′s Method for Semilinear Equations
Authors: Kawanago Tadashi
Published: October 2012

We establish a general existence result for Galerkin′s approximate solutions of abstract semilinear equations and conduct an error analysis. Our results may be regarded as some extension of a precedent work (Schultz 1969). The derivation of our results is, however, different from the discussion in his paper and is essentially based on the convergence theorem of Newton’s method and some techniques for deriving it. Some of our results may be applicable for investigating the quality of numerical verification methods for solutions of ordinary and partial differential equations.
Isolated Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis from Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Goyal Hemant , Mattoo Vijay K. , Singla Umesh
Published: October 2012

A 68-year-old female with past medical history of stage IIIc serous ovarian cancer after cytoreductive surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy came to clinic for regular follow-up visit. Physical examination was completely normal except for an isolated left axillary lymph node enlargement. Patient's abdominal sonogram and CT scan of abdomen and pelvis did not show any other new metastasis. Surgical excisional biopsy of the lymph node was performed and pathology revealed features of metastatic serous ovarian carcinoma.
The Asymptotic Synchronization Analysis for Two Kinds of Complex Dynamical Networks
Authors: Tang Ze , Feng Jianwen
Published: October 2012

We consider a class of complex networks with both delayed and nondelayed coupling. In particular, we consider the situation for both time delay-independent and time delay-dependent complex dynamical networks and obtain sufficient conditions for their asymptotic synchronization by using the Lyapunov-Krasovskii stability theorem and the linear matrix inequality (LMI). We also present some simulation results to support the validity of the theories.
Application of Multiscale Fiber Optical Sensing Network Based on Brillouin and Fiber Bragg Grating Sensing Techniques on Concrete Structures
Authors: Zhao Xuefeng , Lu Jie , Han Ruicong , Kong Xianglong , Wang Yanhong , Li Le
Published: October 2012

The paper reports the application of the distributed optical fiber sensing technology and the FBG sensing technology in bridge strain monitoring; the overall changeable characteristics of the whole structure can be obtained through the distributed optical fiber sensing technology (BOTDA), meanwhile the accurate information of local important parts of the structure can be obtained through the optical fiber Bragg grating sensor (FBG), which can improve the accuracy of the monitoring. FBG sensor has a high sensitivity, but it can only realize the measurement of local discrete points for the quasidistributed sensing. BOTDA can realize the long distance and distributed measurement, but its spatial resolution is not high. FBG and BOTDA were applied together in bridge monitoring in this test, taking full advantage of the distributed BOTDA on the overall strain measurements of the structure, as well as monitoring the key parts by the arrangement of FBG. The combined application of BOTDA and FBG can achieve the overall monitoring from point to line and then to the surface and, therefore, obtain more comprehensive information on the strain of the test structure.
Attitude‐Tracking Control with Path Planning for Agile Satellite Using Double‐Gimbal Control Moment Gyros
Authors: Cui Peiling , Liu Fuyu
Published: October 2012

In view of the issue of rapid attitude maneuver control of agile satellite, this paper presents an attitude‐tracking control algorithm with path planning based on the improved genetic algorithm, adaptive backstepping control as well as sliding mode control. The satellite applies double gimbal control moment gyro as actuator and is subjected to the external disturbance and uncertain inertia properties. Firstly, considering the comprehensive mathematical model of the agile satellite and the double gimbal control moment gyro, an improved genetic algorithm is proposed to solve the attitude path‐planning problem. The goal is to find an energy optimal path which satisfies certain maneuverability under the constraints of the input saturation, actuator saturation, slew rate limit and singularity measurement limit. Then, the adaptive backstepping control and sliding mode control are adopted in the design of the attitude‐tracking controller to track accurately the desired path comprised of the satellite attitude quaternion and velocity. Finally, simulation results indicate the robustness and good tracking performance of the derived controller as well as its ability to avert the singularity of double gimbal control moment gyro.
Development of Alternative Glass Ceramic Seal for a Planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Lemes-Rachadel P. , Birol H. , Oliveira A. P. N. , Hotza D.
Published: October 2012

LZSA glass ceramic (LiO2-ZrO2-SiO2-Al2O3) was tested for its thermomechanical compatibility as a sealing material with a stainless steel interconnect (AISI 430) of a planar SOFC. With this purpose, the densification and crystallization behavior of LZSA were investigated initially. It was observed that the material reached maximum relative density and shrinkage, respectively 95% and 17%, at 800°C, which corresponded approximately to the crystallization temperature of the material as evidenced by DTA analysis. In the next step, LZSA tapes were cast from slurries and prepared either as LZSA laminates or LZSA-steel bilayers. The densification behavior and microstructural features of cofired LZSA laminates and LZSA-steel bilayers were analyzed at 800 and 900°C. Maximum relative density and defect-free interfaces were observed for laminates and bi-layers cofired at 800°C, whereas increased porosity and detached bi-layer were the characteristics of the samples fired at 900°C.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: Cause, Consequence, or Coincidence?
Authors: Smyk Daniel S. , Bogdanos Dimitrios P. , Mytilinaiou Maria G. , Burroughs Andrew K. , Rigopoulou Eirini I.
Published: October 2012

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a progressive cholestatic liver disease characterized serologically by cholestasis and the presence of high-titre antimitochondrial antibodies and histologically by chronic nonsuppurative cholangitis and granulomata. PBC patients often have concomitant autoimmune diseases, including arthropathies. This raises the question as to whether there are shared features in the pathogenesis of those diseases with the pathogenesis of PBC. Epidemiological and large case studies have indicated that although the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is not significantly raised in PBC patients, there appears to be a higher rate of RA in PBC patients and their relatives. Genetic studies have demonstrated that several genes implicated in PBC have also been implicated in RA. Epigenetic studies provided a wealth of data regarding RA, but the findings on epigenetic changes in PBC are very limited. As well, certain infectious agents identified in the pathogenesis of PBC may also play a role in the pathogenesis of RA. These data suggest that although RA is not significantly present in PBC, some individuals with certain genetic traits and environmental exposures may develop both conditions. This concept may also apply to other concomitant diseases found in PBC patients.
A Tragical Paediatric Case History of Intraorbital and Intracranial Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma
Authors: Aniba K. , Laghmari M. , Lmejjati M. , Ghannane H. , Ait Benali S.
Published: October 2012

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a rare tumor of intermediate malignancy. We report a case of intracranial and intraorbitar EHE. A 3-year-old girl presented with a 3-month history of progressive left exophthalmia. Neuroradiologic imaging (CT scan and MRI) showed an intraorbitar process with an intense enhancement extending to temporal fossa, ethmoidal bone, nasal fossa, maxillary sinus, and cavernous sinus. The angiogram was normal. The tumor was operated through subfrontal approach but only a partial resection was performed. The histological diagnosis was epithelioid hemangioendothelioma. The patient was neurologically intact 2 months after surgery without exophtalmia. However 4 months after surgery he displayed a fall of the right eye vision with intense headache. Control CT scan showed persistence of important tumoral residue. Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a hemorrhagic tumor. Total removal must be possible. Otherwise, we recommend a complementary chemoradiotherapy and close followup. We propose this interesting case history of a tragical evolution of EHE in contradiction with what has already been reported.
Clinical Applications of the Photopic Negative Response to Optic Nerve and Retinal Diseases
Authors: Machida Shigeki
Published: October 2012

The photopic negative response (PhNR) in response to a brief flash is a negative-going wave following the b-wave of the cone electroretinogram (ERG) that is driven by retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The function of RGCs is objectively evaluated by analysing the PhNR. We reviewed articles regarding clinical use of the PhNR. The PhNR was well correlated with the visual sensitivity obtained by standard automated perimetry and morphometric parameters of the inner retina and optic nerve head in optic nerve and retinal diseases. Moreover, combining the PhNR with focal or multifocal ERG techniques enables the objective assessment of local function of RGCs. The PhNR is therefore likely to become established as an objective functional test for optic nerve and retinal diseases involving RGC injury.
Bull’s-Eye and Nontarget Skin Lesions of Lyme Disease: An Internet Survey of Identification of Erythema Migrans
Authors: Aucott John N. , Crowder Lauren A. , Yedlin Victoria , Kortte Kathleen B.
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Lyme disease is an emerging worldwide infectious disease with major foci of endemicity in North America and regions of temperate Eurasia. The erythema migrans rash associated with early infection is found in approximately 80% of patients and can have a range of appearances including the classic target bull’s-eye lesion and nontarget appearing lesions.Methods. A survey was designed to assess the ability of the general public to distinguish various appearances of erythema migrans from non-Lyme rashes. Participants were solicited from individuals who visited an educational website about Lyme disease.Results. Of 3,104 people who accessed a rash identification survey, 72.7% of participants correctly identified the classic target erythema migrans commonly associated with Lyme disease. A mean of 20.5% of participants was able to correctly identify the four nonclassic erythema migrans. 24.2% of participants incorrectly identified a tick bite reaction in the skin as erythema migrans.Conclusions. Participants were most familiar with the classic target erythema migrans of Lyme disease but were unlikely to correctly identify the nonclassic erythema migrans. These results identify an opportunity for educational intervention to improve early recognition of Lyme disease and to increase the patient’s appropriate use of medical services for early Lyme disease diagnosis.
Multiple Solutions for a Class of Fractional Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Bin Ge
Published: October 2012

We study the multiplicity of solutions for the following fractional boundary value problem: where and are the left and right Riemann‐Liouville fractional integrals of order 0 ≤ β < 1, respectively, λ > 0 is a real number, F : [0, T] × ℝN → ℝ is a given function, and ∇F(t, x) is the gradient of F at x. The approach used in this paper is the variational method. More precisely, the Weierstrass theorem and mountain pass theorem are used to prove the existence of at least two nontrivial solutions.
Effects of Electroacupuncture of Different Frequencies on the Release Profile of Endogenous Opioid Peptides in the Central Nerve System of Goats
Authors: Cheng Li-Li , Ding Ming-Xing , Xiong Cheng , Zhou Min-Yan , Qiu Zheng-Ying , Wang Qiong
Published: October 2012

To investigate the release profile of met-enkephalin,β-endorphin, and dynorphin-A in ruminants’ CNS, goats were stimulated by electroacupuncture of 0, 2, 40, 60, 80, or 100 Hz for 30 min. The pain threshold was measured using potassium iontophoresis. The peptide levels were determined with SABC immunohistochemisty. The results showed that 60 Hz increased pain threshold by 91%; its increasing rate was higher (P<0.01) than any other frequency did. 2 Hz and 100 Hz increased met-enkephalin immunoactivities (P<0.05) in nucleus accumbens, septal area, caudate nucleus, amygdala, paraventricular nucleus of hypothalamus, periaqueductal gray, dorsal raphe nucleus, and locus ceruleus. The two frequencies elicitedβ-endorphin release (P<0.05) in nucleus accumbens, septal area, supraoptic nucleus, ventromedial nucleus of hypothalamus, periaqueductal gray, dorsal raphe nucleus, locus ceruleus, solitary nucleus and amygdala. 60 Hz increased (P<0.05) met-enkephalin orβ-endorphin immunoactivities in the nuclei and areas mentioned above, and habenular nucleus, substantia nigra, parabrachial nucleus, and nucleus raphe magnus. High frequencies increased dynorphin-A release (P<0.05) in spinal cord dorsal horn and most analgesia-related nuclei. It suggested that 60 Hz induced the simultaneous release of the three peptides in extensive analgesia-related nuclei and areas of the CNS, which may be contributive to optimal analgesic effects and species variation.
Finite Element Method for Linear Multiterm Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Badr Abdallah A.
Published: October 2012

We consider the linear multiterm fractional differential equation (fDE). Existence and uniqueness of the solution of such equation are discussed. We apply the finite element method (FEM) to obtain the numerical solution of this equation using Galerkin approach. A comparison, through examples, between our techniques and other previous numerical methods is established.
The TNF-α -308 Promoter Gene Polymorphism and Chronic HBV Infection
Authors: Tayebi Sirous , Mohamadkhani Ashraf
Published: October 2012

Background and Aims. TNF-α -308 allele promoter polymorphism has been known to be a potential prognostic factor in patients with chronic HBV infection. We tried to determine how TNF-α -308 allele promoter polymorphism would affect the prognosis in patients with chronic HBV infection. Methods. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and reference lists of relevant review articles related to the association between “TNF-α G-308A promoter polymorphism” with “chronic HBV infection”. We only focused on searching -308 locus in published studies. We reviewed 21 original articles about TNF-α -308 allele polymorphism and its effect on prognosis in patients with chronic HBV infection and discussed the results. Results. conflicting results were observed. The results were divided into 3 groups including neutral, negative, and positive associations between TNF-α -308 allele polymorphism and prognosis in patients with chronic HBV infection. We summarized the primary data as a table. Conclusions. Authors concluded that although there is an upward trend in evidence to claim that there is a positive relation between TNF-α G-308A promoter polymorphisms and resolution of chronic HBV infection, due to many biases and limitations observed in reviewed studies, an organized well-designed study is needed for clarifying the real association.
Quaternion Wavelet Analysis and Application in Image Denoising
Authors: Yin Ming , Liu Wei , Shui Jun , Wu Jiangmin
Published: October 2012

The quaternion wavelet transform is a new multiscale analysis tool. Firstly, this paper studies the standard orthogonal basis of scale space and wavelet space of quaternion wavelet transform in spatial L2(R2), proves and presents quaternion wavelet’s scale basis function and wavelet basis function concepts in spatial scale space L2(R2; H), and studies quaternion wavelet transform structure. Finally, the quaternion wavelet transform is applied to image denoising, and generalized Gauss distribution is used to model QWT coefficients’ magnitude distribution, under the Bayesian theory framework, to recover the original coefficients from the noisy wavelet coefficients, and so as to achieve the aim of denoising. Experimental results show that our method is not only better than many of the current denoising methods in the peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR), but also obtained better visual effect.
Numerical Simulation on Electrical-Thermal Properties of Gallium-Nitride-Based Light-Emitting Diodes Embedded in Board
Authors: Long Xing-ming , Liao Rui-jin , Zhou Jing
Published: October 2012

The electrical-thermal characteristics of gallium-nitride- (GaN-) based light-emitting diodes (LED), packaged by chips embedded in board (EIB) technology, were investigated using a multiphysics and multiscale finite element code, COMSOL. Three-dimensional (3D) finite element model for packaging structure has been developed and optimized with forward-voltage-based junction temperatures of a 9-chip EIB sample. The sensitivity analysis of the simulation model has been conducted to estimate the current and temperature distribution changes in EIB LED as the blue LED chip (substrate, indium tin oxide (ITO)), packaging structure (bonding wire and chip numbers), and system condition (injection current) changed. This method proved the reliability of simulated results in advance and useful material parameters. Furthermore, the method suggests that the parameter match on Shockley's equation parameters, Rs, nideal, and Is, is a potential method to reduce the current crowding effect for the EIB LED. Junction temperature decreases by approximately 3 K to 10 K can be achieved by substrate thinning, ITO, and wire bonding. The nonlinear-decreasing characteristics of total thermal resistance that decrease with an increase in chip numbers are likely to improve the thermal performance of EIB LED modules.
It Is Not Just Folklore: The Aqueous Extract of Mung Bean Coat Is Protective against Sepsis
Authors: Zhu Shu , Li Wei , Li Jianhua , Jundoria Arvin , Sama Andrew E. , Wang Haichao
Published: October 2012

Mung bean (Vigna Radiata) has been traditionally used in China both as nutritional food and herbal medicine against a number of inflammatory conditions since the 1050s. A nucleosomal protein, HMGB1, has recently been established as a late mediator of lethal systemic inflammation with a relatively wider therapeutic window for pharmacological interventions. Here we explored the HMGB1-inhibiting capacity and therapeutic potential of mung bean coat (MBC) extractin vitroandin vivo. We found that MBC extract dose-dependently attenuated LPS-induced release of HMGB1 and several chemokines in macrophage cultures. Oral administration of MBC extract significantly increased animal survival rates from 29.4% (in saline group,N=17mice) to 70% (in experimental MBC extract group,N=17mice,P<0.05).In vitro, MBC extract stimulated HMGB1 protein aggregation and facilitated both the formation of microtubule-associatedprotein-1-light-chain-3-(LC3-)containing cytoplasmic vesicles, and the production of LC3-II in macrophage cultures. Consequently, MBC extract treatment led to reduction of cellular HMGB1 levels in macrophage cultures, which was impaired by coaddition of two autophagy inhibitors (bafilomycin A1 and 3-methyladenine).Conclusion. MBC extract is protective against lethal sepsis possibly by stimulating autophagic HMGB1 degradation.
The Monotonicity Results for the Ratio of Certain Mixed Means and Their Applications
Authors: Yang Zhen-Hang
Published: October 2012

We continue to adopt notations and methods used in the papers illustrated by Yang (2009, 2010) to investigate the monotonicity properties of the ratio of mixed two-parameter homogeneous means. As consequences of our results, the monotonicity properties of four ratios of mixed Stolarsky means are presented, which generalize certain known results, and some known and new inequalities of ratios of means are established.
A Comparative Study of Facial Asymmetry in Philippine, Colombian, and Ethiopian Families with Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip Palate
Authors: Otero Liliana , Bermudez Luis , Lizarraga Karina , Tangco Irene , Gannaban Rocelyn , Meles Daniel
Published: October 2012

Objective. To compare the asymmetry displayed by Philippine, Colombian, and Ethiopian unaffected parents of patients with nonsyndromic cleft palate (NSCLP) and a control population. Methods. Facial measurements were compared between unaffected parents of NSCLP patients and those in the control group for three populations from South America, Asia, and Africa by anthropometric and photographic measurements. Fluctuating and directional asymmetries, height and width proportions, were analyzed and compared. Results. Fluctuating asymmetries (ear length, middle line to Zigion perpendicular for left and right sides) and variations in the facial thirds demonstrated statistical significance in the study group of unaffected parents from Colombia and Philippines, while increased interorbital distance was evident in the unaffected Ethiopian parents of NSCLP patients. Conclusions. The facial differences in unaffected parents could indicate an underlying genetic liability. Identification of these differences has relevance in the understanding of the etiology of NSCLP.
Geochemistry of the Neoarchaean Volcanic Rocks of the Kilimafedha Greenstone Belt, Northeastern Tanzania
Authors: Messo Charles W. , Manya Shukrani , Maboko Makenya A. H.
Published: October 2012

The Neoarchaean volcanic rocks of the Kilimafedha greenstone belt consist of three petrological types that are closely associated in space and time: the predominant intermediate volcanic rocks with intermediate calc-alkaline to tholeiitic affinities, the volumetrically minor tholeiitic basalts, and rhyolites. The tholeiitic basalts are characterized by slightly depleted LREE to nearly flat REE patterns with no Eu anomalies but have negative anomalies of Nb. The intermediate volcanic rocks exhibit very coherent, fractionated REE patterns, slightly negative to absent Eu anomalies, depletion in Nb, Ta, and Ti in multielement spidergrams, and enrichment of HFSE relative to MORB. Compared to the other two suites, the rhyolites are characterized by low concentrations of TiO2 and overall low abundances of total REE, as well as large negative Ti, Sr, and Eu anomalies. The three suites have a εNd (2.7 Ga) values in the range of −0.51 to +5.17. The geochemical features of the tholeiitic basalts are interpreted in terms of derivation from higher degrees of partial melting of a peridotite mantle wedge that has been variably metasomatized by aqueous fluids derived from dehydration of the subducting slab. The rocks showing intermediate affinities are interpreted to have been formed as differentiates of a primary magma formed later by lower degrees of partial melting of a garnet free mantle wedge that was strongly metasomatized by both fluid and melt derived from the subducting oceanic slab. The rhyolites are best interpreted as having been formed by shallow level fractional crystallization of the intermediate volcanic rocks involving plagioclase and Ti-rich phases like ilmenite and magnetite as well as REE-rich phases like apatite, zircon, monazite, and allanite. The close spatial association of the three petrological types in the Kilimafedha greenstone belt is interpreted as reflecting their formation in an evolving late Archaean island arc.
Foraging ofScaptotrigonaaff.depilis(Hymenoptera, Apidae) in an Urbanized Area: Seasonality in Resource Availability and Visited Plants
Authors: Faria Letícia Biral de , Aleixo Kátia Paula , Garófalo Carlos Alberto , Imperatriz-Fonseca Vera Lucia , Silva Cláudia Inês da
Published: October 2012

The floral sources used by bees can be identified by analyzing pollen grains obtained from their bodies, feces, brood cells, or storage pots in the nests. In addition to data on resource availability, this information enables the investigation on the selection of food resource by bees. We assessed the foraging patterns ofScaptotrigonaaff.depilisin an urbanized area with seasonal availability of food resources. The species visited a percentage of 36.60% of the available flora, suggesting that these bees are selective at spatiotemporal scale. When many types of resources were available, the workers concentrated their collection activities on a limited group of sources. In contrast, more plant species were exploited during periods of lower number of flowering plants. A monthly analysis of the foraging patterns of the studied colonies revealed thatSyzygium cumini(88.86%),Mimosasp.1 (80.23%),Schinus terebinthifolius(63.36%), andEucalyptus citriodora(61.75%) were the most frequently used species and are therefore important for maintainingS.aff.depilisat the study area. These plants are close to the colonies and exhibit mass flowering. This study is one of few works to quantify natural resource availability and to analyze the effects of flowering seasonality on the selection of food sources by bees.
Performance Analysis of Different Types of Sensor Networks for Cognitive Radios
Authors: Ye Chunxuan , Lin Zinan , Demir Alpaslan , Li Yan
Published: October 2012

We consider the problem of using multiple sensors to detect whether a certain spectrum is occupied or not. Each sensor sends its spectrum sensing result to a data fusion center, which combines all the results for an overall decision. With the existence of wireless fading on the channels from sensors to data fusion center, we examine three different mechanisms on the transmissions from sensors to data fusion center: (1) direct transmissions; (2) transmissions with the assistance of relays and (3) transmissions with the assistance of an intermediate fusion helper which fuses the sensing results from the sensors and sends the fused result to the data fusion center. For each mechanism, we analyze the correct probability of the overall decision made by the data fusion center. Our evaluation establishes that a sensor network with an intermediate fusion helper performs almost as good as a sensor network with relays, but providing energy and spectral advantages. Both networks significantly outperform the sensor network without relay or intermediate fusion helper. Such analysis facilitates the design of sensor networks. Furthermore, we generalize this evaluation to sensor networks with an arbitrary number of sensors and to sensor networks applying various information combining rules. Our simulations validate the analytical results.
Sensitive Marker of the Cisplatin-DNA Interaction: X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy of CL
Authors: Xiao Fangxing , Yao Xiaobin , Bao Qianhong , Li Danzhen , Zheng Yi
Published: October 2012

The development of cisplatin and Pt-based analogues anticancer agents requires knowledge concerning the molecular mechanisms of interaction between such drugs with DNA. However, the binding dynamics and kinetics of cisplatin reactions with DNA determined by traditional approaches are far from satisfactory. In this study, a typical 20-base oligonucleotide (CGTGACAGTTATTGCAGGCG), as a simplified model representing DNA, was mixed with cisplatin in different molar ratios and incubation time. High-resolution XPS spectra of the core elements C, N, O, P, and Cl were recorded to explore the interaction between cisplatin and DNA. From deconvoluted Cl spectra we could readily differentiate the covalently bound chlorine from ionic chloride species in the cisplatin-oligo complexes, which displayed distinct features at various reaction times and ratios. Monitoring the magnitude and energy of the photoelectron Cl 2p signal by XPS could act as a sensitive marker to probe the interaction dynamics of chemical bonds in the reaction of cisplatin with DNA. At 37°C, the optimum incubation time to obtain a stable cisplatin-oligo complex lies around 20 hrs. This novel analysis technique could have valuable implications to understand the fundamental mechanism of cisplatin cytotoxicity and determine the efficiency of the bonds in treated cancer cells.
The Effects of RF Sputtering Power and Gas Pressure on Structural and Electrical Properties of ITiO Thin Film
Authors: Chaoumead Accarat , Sung Youl-moon , Kwak Dong-Joo
Published: October 2012

Transparent conductive titanium-doped indium oxide (ITiO) films were deposited on corning glass substrates by RF magnetron sputtering method. The effects of RF sputtering power and Ar gas pressure on the structural and electrical properties of the films were investigated experimentally, using a 2.5 wt% TiO2-doped In2O3target. The deposition rate was in the range of around20~60 nm/min under the experimental conditions of5~20 mTorr of gas pressure and220~350 W of RF power. The lowest volume resistivity of1.2×10−4  Ω-cm and the average optical transmittance of 75% were obtained for the ITiO film, prepared at RF power of 300 W and Ar gas pressure of 15 mTorr. This volume resistivity of1.2×10−4  Ω-cm is low enough as a transparent conducting layer in various electrooptical devices, and it is comparable with that of ITO or ZnO:Al conducting layer.
Effects of Berberine and Hwangryunhaedok-Tang on Oral Bioavailability and Pharmacokinetics of Ciprofloxacin in Rats
Authors: Hwang Youn-Hwan , Cho Won-Kyung , Jang Doorye , Ha Jeong-Ho , Jung Kiyoun , Yun Hyo-In , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: October 2012

Hwangryunhaedok-Tang (HR) and berberine-containing single herbs are used to treat bacterial infection and inflammatory diseases in eastern Asia. The combination of berberine-containing herbal medicines and ciprofloxacin can be an excellent antibacterial chemotherapy against multidrug resistance bacteria. To evaluate the pretreatment effect of berberine and HR, vehicle, berberine (25 and 50 mg/kg/day), and HR (1.4 g/kg/day) were daily administered to rats for five consecutive days. On day 6, ciprofloxacin was administered (10 mg/kg, i.v. and 20 mg/kg, p.o.) to rats. To assess cotreatment effect of berberine and ciprofloxacin, berberine (50 mg/kg) and ciprofloxacin (20 mg/kg) were coadministered by single oral gavage. Pharmacokinetic data were estimated by noncompartmental model. Compared with ciprofloxacin alone (control group), coadministration of berberine (50 mg/kg) and ciprofloxacin significantly decreasedCmaxof ciprofloxacin (P<0.05). In addition, the pretreatment of berberine (50 mg/kg/day) and HR (1.4 g/kg/day) significantly decreasedCmaxandAUC0→∞, compared with control group (P<0.05). The oral bioavailability of ciprofloxacin was reduced by cotreatment of berberine and pretreatment of berberine and HR. Our results suggest that the expression of P-glycoprotein and organic anion and/or organic cation transporters (OAT/OCT) could take a role in reduced oral bioavailability of ciprofloxacin by berberine and HR.
Unusual Presentation of Cystic Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Patil Vijayraj S. , Vijayakumar Abhishek , Natikar Neelamma
Published: October 2012

Papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common thyroid malignancy, accounting for 80% of all thyroid cancers. The most common presentation of thyroid cancer is an asymptomatic thyroid mass or a nodule. Usually as thyroid enlarges, it extends in to mediastinum. Papillary thyroid carcinoma presentation as multiple true cystic swelling extending from neck to anterior chest wall in subcutaneous plane is not present in the literature. We present a rare case of cystic papillary thyroid carcinoma which is presented as subcutaneous swelling with sinus formation.
Perturbations of Half‐Linear Euler Differential Equation and Transformations of Modified Riccati Equation
Authors: Došlý Ondřej , Funková Hana
Published: October 2012

We investigate transformations of the modified Riccati differential equation and the obtained results we apply in the investigation of oscillatory properties of perturbed half‐linear Euler differential equation. A perturbation is also allowed in the differential term.
Challenges and Opportunities for Small Molecule Aptamer Development
Authors: McKeague Maureen , DeRosa Maria C.
Published: October 2012

Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides that bind to targets with high affinity and selectivity. Their use as molecular recognition elements has emerged as a viable approach for biosensing, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Despite this potential, relatively few aptamers exist that bind to small molecules. Small molecules are important targets for investigation due to their diverse biological functions as well as their clinical and commercial uses. Novel, effective molecular recognition probes for these compounds are therefore of great interest. This paper will highlight the technical challenges of aptamer development for small molecule targets, as well as the opportunities that exist for their application in biosensing and chemical biology.
The Other Side of Gravity and Geometry: Antigravity and Anticurvature
Authors: Wanas M. I.
Published: October 2012

Gravity is one of the four known fundamental interactions used to study and interpret physical phenomenae. It governs diverse phenomenae, especially those connected with large-scale structures. From more than one decade, existing gravity theories have suffered from some problems, when confronting their predictions with the results of some experiments and observations. This situation has led to many suggestions, none of which is final, so far. Here, we show that the assumption of existence of another side of gravity, a repulsive gravity or antigravity, together with its attractive side, may give a satisfactory solution to gravity problems. We caught here two pieces of evidence for the existence of antigravity in nature. The first is on the laboratory scale, the COW experiment, and the second is on the cosmic scale, SN type Ia observation. On the other hand, we show how gravity theories can predict antigravity, using a new defined geometric object called Parameterized anticurvature. This shows clearly how Einstein's geometrization philosophy can solve recent gravity problems in a satisfactory and easy way. Also, it may throw some light on the mystery of physical nature of “Dark Energy.”
The Role of Different Subsets of Regulatory T Cells in Immunopathogenesis of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Gol-Ara Maryam , Jadidi-Niaragh Farhad , Sadria Reza , Azizi Gholamreza , Mirshafiey Abbas
Published: October 2012

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disease and a systemic inflammatory disease which is characterized by chronic joint inflammation and variable degrees of bone and cartilage erosion and hyperplasia of synovial tissues. Considering the role of autoreactive T cells (particularly Th1 and Th17 cells) in pathophysiology of RA, it might be assumed that the regulatory T cells (Tregs) will be able to control the initiation and progression of disease. The frequency, function, and properties of various subsets of Tregs including natural Tregs (nTregs), IL-10-producing type 1 Tregs (Tr1 cells), TGF-β-producing Th3 cells, CD8+Tregs, and NKT regulatory cells have been investigated in various studies associated with RA and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) as experimental model of this disease. In this paper, we intend to submit the comprehensive information about the immunobiology of various subsets of Tregs and their roles and function in immunopathophysiology of RA and its animal model, CIA.
Impact of Temozolomide on Immune Response during Malignant Glioma Chemotherapy
Authors: Sengupta Sadhak , Marrinan Jaclyn , Frishman Caroline , Sampath Prakash
Published: October 2012

Malignant glioma, or glioblastoma, is the most common and lethal form of brain tumor with a median survival time of 15 months. The established therapeutic regimen includes a tripartite therapy of surgical resection followed by radiation and temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy, concurrently with radiation and then as an adjuvant. TMZ, a DNA alkylating agent, is the most successful antiglioma drug and has added several months to the life expectancy of malignant glioma patients. However, TMZ is also responsible for inducing lymphopenia and myelosuppression in malignant glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy. Although TMZ-induced lymphopenia has been attributed to facilitate antitumor vaccination studies by inducing passive immune response, in general lymphopenic conditions have been associated with poor immune surveillance leading to opportunistic infections in glioma patients, as well as disrupting active antiglioma immune response by depleting both T and NK cells. Deletion of O6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) activity, a DNA repair enzyme, by temozolomide has been determined to be the cause of lymphopenia. Drug-resistant mutation of the MGMT protein has been shown to render chemoprotection against TMZ. The immune modulating role of TMZ during glioma chemotherapy and possible mechanisms to establish a strong TMZ-resistant immune response have been discussed.
Effects of Antipsychotics on Dentate Gyrus Stem Cell Proliferation and Survival in Animal Models: A Critical Update
Authors: Keilhoff Gerburg , Fusar-Poli Paolo , Becker Axel
Published: October 2012

Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric disorder. Although a number of different hypotheses have been developed to explain its aetiopathogenesis, we are far from understanding it. There is clinical and experimental evidence indicating that neurodevelopmental factors play a major role. Disturbances in neurodevelopment might result in alterations of neuroanatomy and neurochemistry, leading to the typical symptoms observed in schizophrenia. The present paper will critically address the neurodevelopmental models underlying schizophrenia by discussing the effects of typical and atypical antipsychotics in animal models. We will specifically discuss the vitamin D deficiency model, the poly I:C model, the ketamine model, and the postnatal ventral hippocampal lesion model, all of which reflect core neurodevelopmental issues underlying schizophrenia onset.
Dynamic Response of Cable-Supported Façades Subjected to High-Level Air Blast Loads: Numerical Simulations and Mitigation Techniques
Authors: Amadio Claudio , Bedon Chiara
Published: October 2012

A glazing façade subjected to blast loads has a structural behaviour that strongly differs from the typical response of a glazing system subjected to ordinary loads. Consequently, sophisticated modelling techniques are required to identify correctly its criticalities. The paper investigates the behaviour of a cable-supported façade subjected to high-level blast loading. Nonlinear dynamic analyses are performed in ABAQUS/Explicit using a sophisticated FE-model (M01), calibrated to dynamic experimental and numerical results. The structural effects of the total design blast impulse, as well as only its positive phase, are analyzed. At the same time, the possible cracking of glass panels is taken into account, since this phenomenon could modify the response of the entire façade. Finally, deep investigations are dedicated to the bearing cables, since subjecting them to elevated axial forces and their collapse could compromise the integrity of the cladding wall. Based on results of previous studies, frictional devices differently applied at their ends are presented to improve the response of the façade under the impact of a high-level explosion. Structural effects of various solutions are highlighted through dynamic simulations. Single vertical devices, if appropriately calibrated, allow reducing significantly the axial forces in cables, and lightly the tensile stresses in glass panes.
Evaluation of ASSERT-PV V3R1 against the PSBT Benchmark
Authors: Leung Kenneth H. , Novog David R.
Published: October 2012

Void fraction and DNB calculations conducted using ASSERT-PV V3R1 are evaluated against data from the NUPEC database as part of the OECD/NEA Pressurized Water Reactor Subchannel Benchmark Tests (PSBT). Void fraction measurements were well represented in the isolated single subchannel cases, with 77.0% of all predicted values falling within±2σexp =0.06of the experimental value. In the B5 type bundle, an average void fraction error ofϵ-α=-0.0540was reported at the lower elevation, while this value wasϵ-α=-0.0405at the upper measurement location. ASSERT was able to predict the steady state DNB power of the bundles to within ±10% of the measured value for a total of 344 times out of 432. Sensitivity studies conducted indicate that the Ahmad correlation with the Groeneveld 1995 CHF lookup table yielded the most accurate results, although some data points fell within the limiting quality region where the accuracy was reduced.
Pregnancy Complicated with Severe Recurrent Aortic Coarctation: A Case Report
Authors: Yavuz Celal , Soydinc Hatice Ender , Tekbaş Güven , Karahan Oguz
Published: October 2012

A 23-year-old primigravida was referred to our clinic for evaluation of high blood pressure (BP) in her 16th week of gestation. She had an operation to repair congenital aortic coarctation and patent ductus arteriosus 8 years ago. On physical examination the blood pressure in upper extremity was 155/95 and in lower extremity was 90/55 mmHg, and heart rate was 93 beats/min. Transthoracic echocardiography showed narrowing of the descending aorta, the diameter of the aortic arch was 10.60 mm and an echocardiographic gradient was 96 mmHg. During the pregnancy (from 16 weeks to 38 weeks) BP was regulated with metoprolol. Cesarean section delivery was applied at 38 weeks of gestation. There was no complication in postpartum period. Spinal anesthesia application was used for caesarean section intervention and healthy female baby was delivered with the APGAR scores of 10/10. Herein the diagnosis of aortic coarctation is reviewed and the management when found during pregnancy is discussed.
Evaluation of Aerosol Fire Extinguishing Agent Using a Simple Diffusion Model
Authors: Zhu Chen-guang , Lü Chun-xu , Wang Jun
Published: October 2012

Aerosol fire extinguishing agents have been recognized as an effective replacement of Halon. The uniform diffusion time and the effective concentration of the aerosol fire extinguishing agent are important parameters for putting out a fire. In this work, the effective concentration is derived based on the diffusion equation, and its variation with changing diffusion coefficient and diffusion time is analyzed. The uniform diffusion time could then be conveniently estimated using this equation. Based on experimental data, the concentration kinetics of the aerosol is drawn and the relation between the diffusion coefficient and the uniform diffusion time is analyzed. It was found that the uniform diffusion time is not dependent on the shape of the closed room but dependent on the total room volume and the position of its diffusion source. This model is demonstrated as a facile tool for the convenient evaluation and reasonable application of the aerosol fire extinguishing agent by predicting the uniform diffusion times of extinguishing aerosol in closed rooms.