bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Similarity Analysis for Effects of Variable Diffusivity and Heat Generation/Absorption on Heat and Mass Transfer for a MHD Stagnation-Point Flow of a Convective Viscoelastic Fluid over a Stretching Sheet with a Slip Velocity
Authors: El-Hawary H. M. , Mahmoud Mostafa A. A. , Abdel-Rahman Reda G. , Elfeshawey Abeer S.
Published: May 2013

A mathematical analysis has been carried out for stagnation-point heat and mass transfer of a viscoelastic fluid over a stretching sheet with surface slip velocity, concentration dependent diffusivity, thermal convective boundary conditions, and heat source/sink. The governing partial differential equations are reduced to a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations using Lie group analysis. Numerical solutions of the resulting ordinary differential equations are obtained using shooting method. The influences of various parameters on velocity, temperature, and mass profiles have been studied. Also, the effects of various parameters on the local skin-friction coefficient, the local Nusselt number, and the local Sherwood number are given in graphics form and discussed.
ID List Forwarding Free Confidentiality Preserving Data Aggregation for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhu Liehuang , Yang Zhen , Wang Mingzhong , Li Meng
Published: May 2013

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are composed of sensor nodes with limited energy which is difficult to replenish. Data aggregation is considered to help reduce communication overhead with in-network processing, thus minimizing energy consumption and maximizing network lifetime. Meanwhile, it comes with challenges for data confidentiality protection. Many existing confidentiality preserving aggregation protocols have to transfer list of sensors' ID for base station to explicitly tell which sensor nodes have actually provided measurement. However, forwarding a large number of node IDs brings overwhelming extra communication overhead. In this paper, we propose provably secure aggregation scheme perturbation-based efficient confidentiality preserving protocol (PEC2P) that allows efficient aggregation of perturbed data without transferring any ID information. In general, environmental data is confined to a certain range; hence, we utilize this feature and design an algorithm to help powerful base station retrieve the ID of reporting nodes. We analyze the accuracy of PEC2P and conclude that base station can retrieve the sum of environmental data with an overwhelming probability. We also prove that PEC2P is CPA secure by security reduction. Experiment results demonstrate that PEC2P significantly reduces node congestion (especially for the root node) during aggregation process in comparison with the existing protocols.
Comment on “Continuous g-Frame in Hilbert -Modules”
Authors: Xiang Zhong-Qi
Published: May 2013

The continuous g-frames in Hilbert -modules were introduced and investigated by Kouchi and Nazari (2011). They also studied the continuous g-Riesz basis and a characterization for it was presented by using the synthesis operator. However, we found that there is an error in the proof. The purpose of this paper is to improve their result by introducing the so-called modular continuous g-Riesz basis.
Discovering Weighted Patterns in Intron Sequences Using Self‐Adaptive Harmony Search and Back‐Propagation Algorithms
Authors: Huang Yin-Fu , Wang Chia-Ming , Liou Sing-Wu
Published: May 2013

A hybrid self‐adaptive harmony search and back‐propagation mining system was proposed to discover weighted patterns in human intron sequences. By testing the weights under a lazy nearest neighbor classifier, the numerical results revealed the significance of these weighted patterns. Comparing these weighted patterns with the popular intron consensus model, it is clear that the discovered weighted patterns make originally the ambiguous 5SS and 3SS header patterns more specific and concrete.
Transformer Magnetization Losses Using a Nonfiltered Voltage-Source Inverter
Authors: Ekström Rickard , Apelfröjd Senad , Leijon Mats
Published: May 2013

Results from the magnetization of an 80 kVA power
transformer, using a directly coupled nonfiltered three-phase
voltage-source inverter (VSI), are presented. The major benefits
of this topology are reduction in switching filter size as well as
filter losses. Drawbacks include higher stress on the transformer
windings and higher transformer magnetization losses. In this
paper, the total magnetization losses are presented for different
voltage levels. The transformer has been magnetized with the
rated frequency of 50 Hz at various voltage levels. The saturation
characteristics as well as the magnetizing resistance are derived
as functions of the voltage. These are used as inputs for the
simulations. The magnetization losses have been experimentally
measured and simulated for three different DC levels. Results
from the simulations show good agreement with the experimental
results. As expected, the pulsed voltage waveforms generate
larger magnetization losses than the corresponding 50 Hz case. The losses are strongly dependent on the DC level.
Ant-Based Swarm Algorithm for Charging Coordination of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Xu Shaolun , Feng Donghan , Yan Zheng , Zhang Liang , Li Naihu , Jing Lei , Wang Jianhui
Published: May 2013

Uncontrolled charging of large-scale electric vehicles (EVs) can affect the safe and economic operation of power systems, especially at the distribution level. The centralized EVs charging optimization methods require complete information of physical appliances and using habits, which will cause problems of high dimensionality and communication block. Given this, an ant-based swarm algorithm (ASA) is proposed to realize the EVs charging coordination at the transformer level, which can overcome the drawbacks of centralized control method. First, the EV charging load model is developed, and the charging management structure based on swarm intelligence is presented. Second, basic data of the EV using habit is sampled by the Monte Carlo method, and the ASA is applied to realize the load valley filling. The load fluctuation and the transformer capacity are also considered in the algorithm. Finally, the charging coordination of 500 EVs under a 12.47 KV transformer is simulated to demonstrate the validity of the proposed method.
On the Stability of Trigonometric Functional Equations in Distributions and Hyperfunctions
Authors: Chung Jaeyoung , Chang Jeongwook
Published: May 2013

We consider the Hyers-Ulam stability for a class of trigonometric functional equations in the spaces of generalized functions such as Schwartz distributions and Gelfand hyperfunctions.
Molecular Analysis of Twist1 and FGF Receptors in a Rabbit Model of Craniosynostosis: Likely Exclusion as the Loci of Origin
Authors: Gallo Phillip H. , Cray James J. , Durham Emily L. , Mooney Mark P. , Cooper Gregory M. , Kathju Sandeep
Published: May 2013

Craniosynostosis is the premature fusion of the cranial vault sutures. We have previously described a colony of rabbits with a heritable pattern of nonsyndromic, coronal suture synostosis; however, the underlying genetic defect remains unknown. We now report a molecular analysis to determine if four genes implicated in human craniosynostosis, TWIST1 and fibroblast growth factor receptors 1–3 (FGFR1–3), could be the loci of the causative mutation in this unique rabbit model. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified within the Twist1, FGFR1, and FGFR2 genes, and the allelic patterns of these silent mutations were examined in 22 craniosynostotic rabbits. SNP analysis of the Twist1, FGFR1, and FGFR2 genes indicated that none were the locus of origin of the craniosynostotic phenotype. In addition, no structural mutations were identified by direct sequence analysis of Twist1 and FGFR3 cDNAs. These data indicate that the causative locus for heritable craniosynostosis in this rabbit model is not within the Twist1, FGFR1, and FGFR2 genes. Although a locus in intronic or flanking sequences of FGFR3 remains possible, no direct structural mutation was identified for FGFR3.
On Common Random Fixed Points of a New Iteration with Errors for Nonself Asymptotically Quasi-Nonexpansive Type Random Mappings
Authors: Rashwan R. A. , Jhade P. K. , Al-Baqeri Dhekra Mohammed
Published: May 2013

We prove some strong convergence of a new random iterative scheme with errors to common random fixed points for three and then N nonself asymptotically quasi-nonexpansive-type random mappings in a real separable Banach space. Our results extend and improve the recent results in Kiziltunc, 2011, Thianwan, 2008, Deng et al., 2012, and Zhou and Wang, 2007 as well as many others.
Preparation, Characterization, and Properties of In Situ Formed Graphene Oxide/Phenol Formaldehyde Nanocomposites
Authors: Xu Weihua , Wei Chun , Lv Jian , Liu Hongxia , Huang Xiaohua , Liu Tianxi
Published: May 2013

Graphene oxide (GO) has shown great potential to be used as fillers to develop polymer nanocomposites for important applications due to their special 2D geometrical structure as well as their outstanding mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties. In this work, GO was incorporated into phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin by in situ polymerization. The morphologies and structures of GO sheets were characterized by FTIR, XRD, and AFM methods. The structure and properties of the GO/PF nanocomposites were characterized using FTIR, XRD, DSC, and TGA methods. Effects of GO content, reactive conditions, and blending methods on the structure and properties of GO/PF nanocomposites were studied. It was found that due to the well dispersion of GO sheets in polymer matrix and the strong interfacial interaction between the GO sheets and PF matrix, the thermal stability and thermal mechanical properties of the GO/PF nanocomposites were greatly enhanced.
Detection of Bordetella pertussis from Clinical Samples by Culture and End-Point PCR in Malaysian Patients
Authors: Ting Tan Xue , Hashim Rohaidah , Ahmad Norazah , Abdullah Khairul Hafizi
Published: May 2013

Pertussis or whooping cough is a highly infectious respiratory disease caused by Bordetella pertussis. In vaccinating countries, infants, adolescents, and adults are relevant patients groups. A total of 707 clinical specimens were received from major hospitals in Malaysia in year 2011. These specimens were cultured on Regan-Lowe charcoal agar and subjected to end-point PCR, which amplified the repetitive insertion sequence IS481 and pertussis toxin promoter gene. Out of these specimens, 275 were positive: 4 by culture only, 6 by both end-point PCR and culture, and 265 by end-point PCR only. The majority of the positive cases were from ≤3 months old patients (77.1%) (). There was no significant association between type of samples collected and end-point PCR results (). Our study showed that the end-point PCR technique was able to pick up more positive cases compared to culture method.
Spirulina (Arthrospira): An Important Source of Nutritional and Medicinal Compounds
Authors: Nuhu Abdulmumin A.
Published: May 2013

Cyanobacteria are aquatic and photosynthetic organisms known for their rich pigments. They are extensively employed as food supplements due to their rich contents of proteins. While many species, such asAnabaenasp., produce hepatotoxins (e.g., microcystins and nodularins) and neurotoxins (such as anatoxin a),Spirulina (Arthrospira)displays anticancer and antimicrobial (antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral) activities via the production of phycocyanin, phycocyanobilin, allophycocyanin, and other valuable products. This paper is an effort to collect these nutritional and medicinal applications ofArthrospirain an easily accessible essay from the vast literature on cyanobacteria.
Multiobjective Optimization Problem of Multireservoir System in Semiarid Areas
Authors: Chen Z. J. , Cheng Z. J. , Yan X. Q.
Published: May 2013

With the increasing scarcity of water resources, the growing importance of the optimization operation of the multireservoir system in water resources development, utilization, and management is increasingly evident. Some of the existing optimization methods are inadequate in applicability and effectiveness. Therefore, we need further research in how to enhance the applicability and effectiveness of the algorithm. On the basis of the research of the multireservoir system’s operating parameters in the Urumqi River basin, we establish a multiobjective optimization problem (MOP) model of water resources development, which meets the requirements of water resources development. In the mathematical model, the domestic water consumption is the biggest, the production of industry and agricultural is the largest, the gross output value of industry and agricultural is the highest, and the investment of the water development is the minimum. We use the weighted variable-step shuffled frog leaping algorithm (SFLA) to resolve it, which satisfies the constraints. Through establishing the test function and performance metrics, we deduce the evolutionary algorithms, which suit for solving MOP of the scheduling, and realize the multiobjective optimization of the multireservoir system. After that, using the fuzzy theory, we convert the competitive multiobjective function into single objective problem of maximum satisfaction, which is the only solution. A feasible solution is provided to resolve the multiobjective scheduling optimization of multireservoir system in the Urumqi River basin. It is the significance of the layout of production, the regional protection of ecological environment, and the sufficient and rational use of natural resources, in Urumqi and the surrounding areas.
Heme Iron Content in Lamb Meat Is Differentially Altered upon Boiling, Grilling, or Frying as Assessed by Four Distinct Analytical Methods
Authors: Pourkhalili Azin , Mirlohi Maryam , Rahimi Ebrahim
Published: May 2013

Lamb meat is regarded as an important source of highly bioavailable iron (heme iron) in the Iranians diet. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of traditional cooking methods on the iron changes in lamb meat. Four published experimental methods for the determination of heme iron were assessed analytically and statistically. Samples were selected from lambs′ loin. Standard methods (AOAC) were used for proximate analysis. For measuring heme iron, the results of four experimental methods were compared regarding their compliance to Ferrozine method which was used for the determination of nonheme iron. Among three cooking methods, the lowest total iron and heme iron were found in boiling method. The heme iron proportions to the total iron in raw, boiled lamb meat and grilled, were counted as 65.70%, 67.75%, and 76.01%, receptively. Measuring the heme iron, the comparison of the methods in use showed that the method in which heme extraction solution was composed of 90% acetone, 18% water, and 2% hydrochloric acid was more appropriate and more correlated with the heme iron content calculated by the difference between total iron and nonheme iron.
A Novel Verifiable Multisecret Sharing Scheme in Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks
Authors: Guo Xianfeng , Luo Qing
Published: May 2013

This paper presents a secure and practical verifiable multi-secret sharing scheme with application on multimedia sensor networks. By utilizing the merits of biometric cryptography, the proposed scheme can reliably conceal private information and overcome the shortcoming of the traditional cryptography. Security analysis shows that the proposed scheme provides secure, robust, and trustworthy verification of dealer and participants over insecure wireless multimedia sensor networks.
Laparoscopic Management of Huge Ovarian Cysts
Authors: Alobaid A. , Memon A. , Alobaid S. , Aldakhil L.
Published: May 2013

Objectives.Huge ovarian cysts are conventionally managed by laparotomy. We present 5 cases with huge ovarian cysts managed by laparoscopic endoscopic surgery without any complications.Materials and Methods.We describe five patients who had their surgeries conducted in a tertiary care center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (King Fahad Medical City).Results.Patients age ranged between 19 and 69 years. Tumor markers were normal for all patients. The maximum diameter of all cysts ranged between 18 and 42 cm as measured by ultrasound. The cysts were unilocular; in some patients, there were fine septations. All patients had open-entry laparoscopy. After evaluation of the cyst capsule, the cysts were drained under laparoscopic guidance, 1–12 liters were drained from the cysts (mean 5.2 L), and then laparoscopic oophorectomy was done. The final histopathology reports confirmed benign serous cystadenoma in four patients and one patient had a benign mucinous cystadenoma. There was minimal blood loss during surgeries and with no complications for all patients.Conclusion.There is still no consensus for the size limitation of ovarian cysts decided to be a contraindication for laparoscopic management. With advancing techniques, proper patients selection, and availability of experts in gynecologic endoscopy, it is possible to remove giant cyst by laparoscopy.
Grading of Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Comparison between Color Fundus Photography, Fluorescein Angiography, and Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Mokwa Nils F. , Ristau Tina , Keane Pearse A. , Kirchhof Bernd , Sadda Srinivas R. , Liakopoulos Sandra
Published: May 2013

Purpose. To compare color fundus photography (FP), fluorescein angiography (FA), and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) for the detection of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), choroidal neovascularisation (CNV), and CNV activity.Methods. FPs, FAs, and SDOCT volume scans from 120 eyes of 66 AMD and control patients were randomly collected. Control eyes were required to show no AMD, but other retinal pathology was allowed. The presence of drusen, pigmentary changes, CNV, and signs for CNV activity was independently analyzed for all imaging modalities.Results. AMD was diagnosed based on FP in 75 eyes. SDOCT and FA showed sensitivity (specificity) of 89% (76%) and 92% (82%), respectively. CNV was present on FA in 68 eyes. Sensitivity (specificity) was 78% (100%) for FP and 94% (98%) for SDOCT. CNV activity was detected by SDOCT or FA in 60 eyes with an agreement in 46 eyes. Sensitivity was 88% for SDOCT and 88% for FA. FP showed sensitivity of 38% and specificity of 98%.Conclusions. CNV lesions and activity may be missed by FP alone, but FP may help identifying drusen and pigmentary changes. SDOCT is highly sensitive for the detection of AMD, CNV, and CNV activity; however, it cannot fully replace FA.
Sex, Conception Interval, Gestational Age, Apgar Score, and Anthropometric Surrogates in relation to Birth Weight of Bangladeshi Newborns: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Azhar Bably Sabina , Monirujjaman Md. , Islam Kazi Saiful , Afrin Sadia , Sabir Hossain Md.
Published: May 2013

In developing countries, where about 75% of births occur at home or in the community, logistic problems prevent the weighing of every newborn child. Baby born with a weight less than 2,500 g is considered low birth weight, since below this value birth-specific infant mortality begins to rise rapidly. In Bangladesh, the prevalence of low birth weight is unacceptably high. Infant's sex differences, birth to conception interval, gestational age, and Apgar score are associated with infant birth weight. To screen low-birth-weight babies, simple anthropometric parameters can be used in rural areas where 80–90% of deliveries take place. A sample of 343 newborn singletons, 186 male and 157 female babies, were studied in Southwest region of Bangladesh to examine the birth weight status of newborns and to identify the relationship between birth weight and other anthropometric parameters of newborns. The mean birth weight was 2754.81±465.57 g, and 28.6% were low-birth-weight (<2,500 g) babies. All key anthropometric parameters of the newborns significantly correlated with infant birth weight (P=0.05). Mid upper arm circumference and chest circumference were identified as the optimal surrogate indicators of LBW babies. In the community where weighing of newborns is difficult, these measurements can be used to identify the LBW babies.
Unusual Presentation of Mediastinal Neurogenic Tumours
Authors: Negri Giampiero , Bandiera Alessandro , Carretta Angelo , Puglisi Armando , Mandelli Carlo , Ciriaco Paola , Zannini Piero
Published: May 2013

Mediastinal neurogenic tumours generally arise as single benign lesions and their typical location is the costovertebral sulcus. In about 10% of cases mediastinal neurogenic tumours may extend to the spinal canal; occasionally they may extend to the cervical region and, more rarely, may be multiple or associated with other synchronous mediastinal lesions. The treatment of choice is surgical resection. This report describes three cases of unusual presentation of mediastinal benign schwannomas successfully treated at our Hospital. In the first case multiple simultaneous paravertebral lesions were resected through a posterior approach. In the second case a tumour of the posterior mediastinum extending to the cervical region was excised through a one-stage combined supraclavicular incision followed by left mini-invasive video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical techniques. The third case describes a patient with a posterior neurogenic mediastinal tumour with a synchronous parathyroid adenoma of the anterior mediastinum, which were both successfully resected by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.
Incentive-Based Optimal Nodes Selection Mechanism for Threshold Key Management in MANETs with Selfish Nodes
Authors: Guo Yuanbo , Ma Jianfeng , Wang Chao , Yang Kuiwu
Published: May 2013

Most of the previous work on threshold-cryptography-based distributed CA concentrates on the initial systems configurations and concrete protocols design, ignoring the efficiency and effectiveness of the key management service during its operation, and always assuming that there are honest nodes to carry out the service faithfully. This paper focuses on developing a selection mechanism in MANETs with selfish nodes, to dynamically select a coalition of nodes carrying out the threshold key management service optimally during system operation. First, we formulate the dynamic nodes selection problem as a combinatorial optimization problem, with the objectives of maximizing the success ratio of key management service and minimizing the nodes' cost of security and energy. Then, to ensure truth telling is the dominant strategy for any node in our scenario, we extend the payment structure of the classical Vickrey-Clarke-Groves (VCG) mechanism design framework and divide the payment into pieces to the nodes, with the consideration of their actual execution effectiveness. Simulations show that the proposed mechanism enjoys improvements of both the success ratio of key management service and lifetime of the network, as well as reductions of both the cost of participating nodes and compromising probability of MANETs, compared with the existing work.
Ipilimumab: A First-in-Class  T-Cell Potentiator for Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Chmielowski Bartosz
Published: May 2013

Ipilimumab, a fully human anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 monoclonal antibody that potentiates antitumor T-cell responses, has demonstrated improved survival in previously treated and treatment-naïve patients with unresectable stage III/IV melanoma. Survival benefit has also been shown in diverse patient populations, including those with brain metastases. In 2011, ipilimumab (3 mg/kg every 3 weeks for 4 doses) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for unresectable or metastatic melanoma. Ipilimumab can induce novel response patterns for which immune-related response criteria have been proposed. irAEs are common but are usually low grade; higher grades can be severe and life-threatening. irAEs are usually manageable using established guidelines emphasizing vigilance and prompt intervention. This agent provides an additional therapeutic option in metastatic melanoma, and guidelines for management of adverse events facilitate clinical implementation of this new agent.
Biomechanics and Load Resistance of Short Dental Implants: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Hasan Istabrak , Bourauel Christoph , Mundt Torsten , Heinemann Friedhelm
Published: May 2013

This paper was aimed to review the studies published about short dental implants. In the focus were the works that investigated the effect of biting forces of the rate of marginal bone resorption around short implants and their survival rates. Bone deformation defined by strain was obviously higher around short implants than the conventional ones. The clinical outcomes of 6 mm short implants after 2 years showed a survival rate of 94% to 95% and lower survival rate (<80%) for 7 mm short implants after 3 to 6 years for single crown restorations. The short implants used for supporting fixed partial prostheses had a survival rate of 98.9%. Short implants can be considered as a good alternative implant therapy to support single crown or partial fixed restorations.
Acute Cholestatic Hepatitis A Virus Infection Presenting with Hemolytic Anemia and Renal Failure: A Case Report
Authors: Lapp Robert T. , Rochling Fedja
Published: May 2013

Hepatitis A virus is the most common acute viral hepatitis worldwide with approximately 1.5 million cases annually. Hepatitis A virus infection in general is self-limited. In rare cases, hepatitis A virus infection may cause renal failure, hemolytic anemia, and/or cholestasis. We report the first case of acute cholestatic hepatitis A virus infection complicated by hemolytic anemia, and renal failure in one patient. A 42-year-old Caucasian male presented with cholestasis, hemolytic anemia and renal failure after consuming street tacos in Central and South America while on a business trip. His protracted course required corticosteroid therapy, multiple sessions of plasma exchange, and numerous units of packed red blood cells. This case demonstrates the importance of vaccination in high-risk adults. A prompt diagnosis of acute hepatitis A virus infection is essential, as uncommon presentations may delay diagnosis leading to permanent morbidity and potentially death in fulminant cases. We also demonstrate the efficacy of treatment of cholestatic hepatitis A virus infection, hemolytic anemia, and renal failure with corticosteroids and plasma exchange.
Metacognitive Instruction: Global and Local Shifts in Considering Listening Input
Authors: Bozorgian Hossein , Fakhri Alamdari Ebrahim
Published: May 2013

A key shift of thinking for effective learning and teaching of listening input has been seen and organized in education locally and globally. This study has probed whether metacognitive instruction through a pedagogical cycle shifts high-intermediate students' English language learning and English as a second language (ESL) teacher's teaching focus on listening input. Twenty male Iranian students with an age range of 18 to 24 received a guided methodology including metacognitive strategies (planning, monitoring, and evaluation) for a period of three months. This study has used the strategies and probed the importance of metacognitive instruction through interviewing both the teacher and the students. The results have shown that metacognitive instruction helped both the ESL teacher's and the students' shift of thinking about teaching and learning listening input. This key shift of thinking has implications globally and locally for classroom practices of listening input.
An Inventory-Theory-Based Inexact Multistage Stochastic Programming Model for Water Resources Management
Authors: Suo M. Q. , Li Y. P. , Huang G. H. , Fan Y. R. , Li Z.
Published: May 2013

An inventory-theory-based inexact multistage stochastic programming (IB-IMSP) method is developed for planning water resources systems under uncertainty. The IB-IMSP is based on inexact multistage stochastic programming and inventory theory. The IB-IMSP cannot only effectively handle system uncertainties represented as probability density functions and discrete intervals but also efficiently reflect dynamic features of system conditions under different flow levels within a multistage context. Moreover, it can provide reasonable transferring schemes (i.e., the amount and batch of transferring as well as the corresponding transferring period) associated with various flow scenarios for solving water shortage problems. The applicability of the proposed IB-IMSP is demonstrated by a case study of planning water resources management. The solutions obtained are helpful for decision makers in not only identifying different transferring schemes when the promised water is not met, but also making decisions of water allocation associated with different economic objectives.
Exponential Stability Results of Discrete-Time Stochastic Neural Networks with Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Li Yajun
Published: May 2013

An innovative stability analysis approach for a class of discrete-time stochastic neural networks (DSNNs) with time-varying delays is developed. By constructing a novel piecewise Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional candidate, a new sum inequality is presented to deal with sum items without ignoring any useful items, the model transformation is no longer needed, and the free weighting matrices are added to reduce the conservatism in the derivation of our results, so the improvement of computational efficiency can be expected. Numerical examples and simulations are also given to show the effectiveness and less conservatism of the proposed criteria.
Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Glioma: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Kennedy Benjamin C. , Showers Christopher R. , Anderson David E. , Anderson Lisa , Canoll Peter , Bruce Jeffrey N. , Anderson Richard C. E.
Published: May 2013

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) contribute substantially to the tumor mass of gliomas and have been shown to play a major role in the creation of a tumor microenvironment that promotes tumor progression. Shortcomings of attempts at antiglioma immunotherapy may result from a failure to adequately address these effects. Emerging evidence supports an independent categorization of glioma TAMs as alternatively activated M2-type macrophages, in contrast to classically activated proinflammatory M1-type macrophages. These M2-type macrophages exert glioma-supportive effects through reduced anti-tumor functions, increased expression of immunosuppressive mediators, and nonimmune tumor promotion through expression of trophic and invasion-facilitating substances. Much of our work has demonstrated these features of glioma TAMs, and together with the supporting literature will be reviewed here. Additionally, the dynamics of glioma cell-TAM interaction over the course of tumor development remain poorly understood; our efforts to elucidate glioma cell-TAM dynamics are summarized. Finally, the molecular pathways which underlie M2-type TAM polarization and gene expression similarly require further investigation, and may present the most potent targets for immunotherapeutic intervention. Highlighting recent evidence implicating the transcription factor STAT3 in immunosuppressive tumorigenic glioma TAMs, we advocate for gene array-based approaches to identify yet unappreciated expression regulators and effector molecules important to M2-type glioma TAMs polarization and function within the glioma tumor microenvironment.
Statins Attenuate the Increase in P-Selectin Produced by Prolonged Exercise
Authors: Zaleski Amanda , Capizzi Jeffrey , Ballard Kevin D. , Troyanos Christopher , Baggish Aaron , D'Hemecourt Pierre , Thompson Paul D. , Parker Beth
Published: May 2013

Strenuous endurance exercise increases inflammatory markers and acutely increases cardiovascular risk; however, statins may mitigate this response. We measured serum levels of p-selectin in 37 runners treated with statins and in 43 nonstatin treated controls running the 2011 Boston Marathon. Venous blood samples were obtained the day before (PRE) as well as within 1 hour after (FINISH) and 24 hours after (POST) the race. The increase in p-selectin immediately after exercise was lower in statin users (PRE to FINISH: 20.5 ± 19.4 ng/mL) than controls (PRE to FINISH: 30.9 ± 27.1 ng/mL;P<0.001). The increase in p-selectin 24 hours after exercise was also lower in statin users (PRE to POST: 21.5 ± 26.6 ng/mL) than controls (PRE to POST: 29.3 ± 31.9 ng/mL;P<0.001). Furthermore, LDL-C was positively correlated with p-selectin at FINISH and POST (P<0.01andP<0.05, resp.), irrespective of drug treatment, suggesting that lower levels of LDL-C are associated with a reduced inflammatory response to exercise. We conclude that statins blunt the exercise-induced increase in p-selectin following a marathon and that the inflammatory response to a marathon varies directly with LDL-C levels.
The Impact of Edentulism on Oral and General Health
Authors: Emami Elham , de Souza Raphael Freitas , Kabawat Marla , Feine Jocelyne S.
Published: May 2013

An adequate dentition is of importance for well-being and life quality. Despite advances in preventive dentistry, edentulism is still a major public health problem worldwide. In this narrative review, we provide a perspective on the pathways that link oral to general health. A better understanding of disease indicators is necessary for establishing a solid strategy through an organized oral health care system to prevent and treat this morbid chronic condition.
Materials for Chemical-Looping with Oxygen Uncoupling
Authors: Mattisson Tobias
Published: May 2013

Chemical-looping with oxygen uncoupling (CLOU) is a novel combustion technology with inherent separation of carbon dioxide. The process is a three-step process which utilizes a circulating oxygen carrier to transfer oxygen from the combustion air to the fuel. The process utilizes two interconnected fluidized bed reactors, an air reactor and a fuel reactor. In the fuel reactor, the metal oxide decomposes with the release of gas phase oxygen (step 1), which reacts directly with the fuel through normal combustion (step 2). The reduced oxygen carrier is then transported to the air reactor where it reacts with the oxygen in the air (step 3). The outlet from the fuel reactor consists of only CO2 and H2O, and pure carbon dioxide can be obtained by simple condensation of the steam. This paper gives an overview of the research conducted around the CLOU process, including (i) a thermodynamic evaluation, (ii) a complete review of tested oxygen carriers, (iii) review of kinetic data of reduction and oxidation, and (iv) evaluation of design criteria. From the tests of various fuels in continuous chemical-looping units utilizing CLOU materials, it can be established that almost full conversion of the fuel can be obtained for gaseous, liquid, and solid fuels.
Cytotoxicity of Ferulic Acid on T24 Cell Line Differentiated by Different Microenvironments
Authors: Peng Chiung-Chi , Chyau Charng-Cherng , Wang Hui-Er , Chang Chi-Huang , Chen Kuan-Chou , Chou Kuang-Yu , Peng Robert Y.
Published: May 2013

Ferulic acid (4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid) (FA) is a ubiquitous health beneficial phenolic acid. Although FA has shown a diversity of biological activities including anti-inflammatory, antihypercholesterolemic and anticancer bioactivities, studies revealing its adverse effects are accumulating. Recently, 3D-cultures are shown to exhibit uniquely biological behaviors different from that of 2D cultures. To understand whether the cytotoxicity of FA against the T24 cell line (a bladder cancer cell line) in 2D-culture could consistently retain similar bioactivity if cultured in the 3D-systems, we conducted this experiment with 2 mM FA. Much higher cytotoxicity was found for 3D- than 2D-culture, showing (2D vs. 3D): apoptotic rates, 64% and 76%; cell killing rates,3.00×105 cells mmol−1·h−1and2.63×106cells mmol−1·h−1, attaining a 8.77-fold. FA upregulated the activities at 72 h (2D vs. 3D in folds that of control): SOD, 1.73-folds (P<0.05) versus 3.18 folds (P<0.001); and catalase, 2.58 versus 1.33-folds. Comparing to the control (without FA), Bcl-2 was prominently downregulated while Bax, caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 were more upregulated in 3D-cultures (P<0.05). Conclusively, different microenvironments could elicit different biological significance which in part can be ascribed to different mass transport rate.
Optimization of Extraction of Natural Pigment from Purple Sweet Potato by Response Surface Methodology and Its Stability
Authors: Li Jinwei , Zhang Lianfu , Liu Yuanfa
Published: May 2013

Purple sweet potato colour (PSPC) was a kind of natural pigment that attracted the general concern in recent years. In this paper, the response surface methodology was employed to optimize the extraction conditions of PSPC. The results showed that the extraction yield of purple colour was 11.6355 mg/g at the optimum extraction conditions of extraction temperature 60°C, extraction time 1 h, the ratio of solid to liquid ratio of 1 : 30, and acidified ethanol solution concentration 80%. Stability experiment showed that Fe3+ and Al3+ could increase the stability of PSPC, but Cu2+, Zn2+, and Pb2+ would decrease the stability of PSPC. Ascorbic acidified could significantly increase the stability of PSPC, and Na2SO3 would reduce the PSPC’s stability.
A 17-Year-Old Female with Systemic Lupus Presents with Complex Movement Disorder: Possible Relationship with Antiribosomal P Antibodies
Authors: Özcan Muhammed Emin , Altınöz Meriç Adil , Karadeli Hasan Hüseyin , Asil Talip , Koçer Abdulkadir
Published: May 2013

Complex movement disorder is a relatively rare presentation of neurolupus. Antiphospholipid antibodies are associated with movement disorders likely via aberrant neuronal stimulation. Antiribosomal P antibodies have been previously associated with neuropsychiatric disorders but their correlation with movement disorder was not previously established. Our case report involves a 17-year-old Caucasian female patient positive for only antiribosomal P antibody and lupus anticoagulant who presented with a sudden onset of complex movement disorder. After complete cessation of physical signs with olanzapine, anticardiolipin and anti-β2 glycoprotein I antibodies became positive which indicates a likely discordance between movement disorder and antiphospholipid antibodies. This also indicates a potential causal role of antiribosomal P antibodies in inducing movement disorder.
Continuous Top-k Contour Regions Querying in Sensor Networks
Authors: Mo Shangfeng , Chen Hong , Li Cuiping , Li Deying , Li Yinglong
Published: May 2013

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are important parts of Internet of Things or Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS). WSNs can be seen as a new type of distributed database systems. The data query processing is very important for WSNs. In this paper, we proposed a Continuous Top-k Contour Regions Querying algorithm (CTCRQ) which can continuously obtain the top-k contour regions and does not lose the rate of precision (accuracy). We take full advantage of the kth value of top-k result in current round as the threshold to suppress the nodes whose readings do not belong to the top-k result in next round. Extensive experiments are conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed CTCRQ approach by using a synthetic data set. The results provide a number of insightful observations and show that CTCRQ substantially outperforms Centralized algorithm, Centralized Optimized algorithm, and CCM algorithm in terms of data transmitted.
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura: A Case Presenting with Acute Ischemic Colitis
Authors: See Joseph R. H. , Sabagh Tarek , Barde Christopher J.
Published: May 2013

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) consists of the pentad of thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia, fever, neurologic abnormalities, and renal disease. We present a case report of acute TTP following a bout of ischemic colitis. This report reminds the clinician that ischemic colitis can be an atypical presentation of TTP. The prompt recognition and treatment of this disease process resulted in a good prognosis for our patient.
Female Genital Cutting and Hepatitis C Spread in Egypt
Authors: Kenyon Chris , Buyze Jozefien , Apers Ludwig , Colebunders Robert
Published: May 2013

A recent analysis of Egypt’s first nationally representative survey of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection found female genital cutting (FGC) to be an independent risk factor for HCV infection for women in urban areas. We use the same dataset to extend this analysis. In an ecological analysis, we find a strong association between FGC and HCV prevalence (Pearson R2—74%;  P<0.0001). HCV prevalence is significantly higher if FGC is performed by a non-Doctor (15.4%) than a Doctor (4.2%; P<0.001), and the calculated population attributable fraction of FGC for prevalent HCV seropositivity is high in women (79.8%).
An Adaptive Prediction-Correction Method for Solving Large-Scale Nonlinear Systems of Monotone Equations with Applications
Authors: Yu Gaohang , Niu Shanzhou , Ma Jianhua , Song Yisheng
Published: May 2013

Combining multivariate spectral gradient method with projection scheme, this paper presents an adaptive prediction-correction method for solving large-scale nonlinear systems of monotone equations. The proposed method possesses some favorable properties: (1) it is progressive step by step, that is, the distance between iterates and the solution set is decreasing monotonically; (2) global convergence result is independent of the merit function and its Lipschitz continuity; (3) it is a derivative-free method and could be applied for solving large-scale nonsmooth equations due to its lower storage requirement. Preliminary numerical results show that the proposed method is very effective. Some practical applications of the proposed method are demonstrated and tested on sparse signal reconstruction, compressed sensing, and image deconvolution problems.
Characterization of Activated Carbons from Oil‐Palm Shell by CO2 Activation with No Holding Carbonization Temperature
Authors: Herawan S. G. , Hadi M. S. , Ayob Md. R. , Putra A.
Published: May 2013

Activated carbons can be produced from different precursors, including coals of different ranks, and lignocellulosic materials, by physical or chemical activation processes. The objective of this paper is to characterize oil‐palm shells, as a biomass byproduct from palm‐oil mills which were converted into activated carbons by nitrogen pyrolysis followed by CO2 activation. The effects of no holding peak pyrolysis temperature on the physical characteristics of the activated carbons are studied. The BET surface area of the activated carbon is investigated using N2 adsorption at 77 K with selected temperatures of 500, 600, and 700°C. These pyrolysis conditions for preparing the activated carbons are found to yield higher BET surface area at a pyrolysis temperature of 700°C compared to selected commercial activated carbon. The activated carbons thus result in well‐developed porosities and predominantly microporosities. By using this activation method, significant improvement can be obtained in the surface characteristics of the activated carbons. Thus this study shows that the preparation time can be shortened while better results of activated carbon can be produced.
A Case of Inoperable Malignant Insulinoma with Resistant Hypoglycemia Who Experienced the Most Significant Clinical Improvement with Everolimus
Authors: Bozkirli Emre , Bakiner Okan , Abali Huseyin , Andic Cagatay , Yapar Ali Fuat , Kayaselcuk Fazilet , Ertorer Eda
Published: May 2013

Metastatic insulinomas may sometimes present with recurrent life-threatening hypoglycemia episodes. Such patients usually fail to respond to various therapeutic agents which causes constant dextrose infusion requirement. Herein, we present a resistant case of inoperable malignant insulinoma who was treated with many therapeutic agents and interventions including somatostatin analogues, Yttrium-90 radioembolization, everolimus, radiotherapy, and chemoembolization. Close blood sugar monitorization during these therapies showed the most favourable response with everolimus. Everolimus treatment resulted in rapid improvement of hypoglycemia episodes, letting us discontinue dextrose infusion and discharge the patient. However, experience with everolimus in such patients is still limited, and more precise data can be obtained with the increasing use of this agent for neuroendocrine tumours.
On the Homomorphisms of the Lie Groups and
Authors: Özdemir Fatma , Özekes Hasan
Published: May 2013

We first construct all the homomorphisms from the Heisenberg group to the 3-sphere. Also, defining a topology on these homomorphisms, we regard the set of these homomorphisms as a topological space. Next, using the kernels of homomorphisms, we define an equivalence relation on this topological space. We finally show that the quotient space is a topological group which is isomorphic to .
Distributed Information Flow Verification Framework for the Composition of Service Chain in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Xi Ning , Ma Jianfeng , Sun Cong , Shen Yulong , Zhang Tao
Published: May 2013

Dynamic service composition provides us with a promising approach to cooperate different sensor nodes in WSN to build complex applications based on their basic functions. Usually multiple nodes located in different regions provide data with different security levels, and it is critical to ensure the security of the information flow in the composite services. However, the energy-limited nature of sensor nodes in WSN poses a significant challenge for the centralized information flow verification with which the verification node needs to consume lots of computation and network resources. In this paper, we specify the security constraints for each service participant to secure the information flow in a service chain based in the lattice model and then present a distributed verification framework that cooperates different service participants to verify their information flow policies distributively. The evaluation results show a significant decrease on the verification cost of the single verification node, which provides a better load balance in each sensor node.
Unraveling the Lipolytic Activity of Thermophilic Bacteria Isolated from a Volcanic Environment
Authors: Stathopoulou Panagiota M. , Savvides Alexander L. , Karagouni Amalia D. , Hatzinikolaou Dimitris G.
Published: May 2013

In a bioprospecting effort towards novel thermostable lipases, we assessed the lipolytic profile of 101 bacterial strains isolated from the volcanic area of Santorini, Aegean Sea, Greece. Screening of lipase activity was performed both in agar plates and liquid cultures using olive oil as carbon source. Significant differences were observed between the two screening methods with no clear correlation between them. While the percentage of lipase producing strains identified in agar plates was only 17%, lipolytic activity in liquid culture supernatants was detected for 74% of them. Nine strains exhibiting elevated extracellular lipase activities were selected for lipase production and biochemical characterization. The majority of lipase producers revealed high phylogenetic similarity withGeobacillusspecies and related genera, whilst one of them was identified asAneurinibacillussp. Lipase biosynthesis strongly depended on the carbon source that supplemented the culture medium. Olive oil induced lipase production in all strains, but maximum enzyme yields for some of the strains were also obtained with Tween-80, mineral oil, and glycerol. Partially purified lipases revealed optimal activity at 70–80°C and pH 8-9. Extensive thermal stability studies revealed marked thermostability for the majority of the lipases as well as a two-step thermal deactivation pattern.