bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sediment, Nutrient, and Bacterial Runoff from Biosolids and Mineral Fertilizer Applied to a Mixed Cool- and Native Warm-Season Grassland in the Ozark Mountains
Authors: Wallace Cody B. , Burton Michael G. , Hefner Steven G. , DeWitt Thomas A.
Published: January 2014

Rainfall simulations were conducted within mixed (cool- and native warm-season) grasslands in the sloping, rocky soils typical of the Ozark Mountains region to estimate nutrient and bacteria levels in runoff from biosolids and mineral fertilizer (MF). The ability of narrow (1 m) vegetated filter strips (VFS) to reduce losses was evaluated. Experiment 1 included an untreated control (C); 37 kg plant available nitrogen (PAN) ha−1from biosolids applied to the upslope half of the plot with the downslope half serving as a VFS (LBF); 74 kg PAN ha−1from biosolids, with VFS (HBF); and a uniform biosolids application at the lower rate and no VFS (LBU). Experiment 2 examined runoff from MF applied at 89 kg ammoniacal nitrogen (NH4-N) ha−1and 147 kg phosphorous (P) ha−1over the whole plot (MFW) or only on the upslope half (with VFS) (MFF). No significant differences were detected among mean fecal coliform levels despite large differences in magnitude. Losses of NH4-N and P were greater for LBU than for LBF. Although only marginally significant (P=0.058), total phosphorous contained in runoff was nearly three times higher in MFW than in MFF. Results of this study suggest that even a small VFS can potentially reduce nutrient levels in runoff.
Adaptation of Mycoplasmas to Antimicrobial Agents:Acholeplasma laidlawiiExtracellular Vesicles Mediate the Export of Ciprofloxacin and a Mutant Gene Related to the Antibiotic Target
Authors: Medvedeva Elena S. , Baranova Natalia B. , Mouzykantov Alexey A. , Grigorieva Tatiana Yu. , Davydova Marina N. , Trushin Maxim V. , Chernova Olga A. , Chernov Vladislav M.
Published: January 2014

This study demonstrated that extracellular membrane vesicles are involved with the development of resistance to fluoroquinolones by mycoplasmas (class Mollicutes). This study assessed the differences in susceptibility to ciprofloxacin among strains ofAcholeplasma laidlawiiPG8. The mechanisms of mycoplasma resistance to antibiotics may be associated with a mutation in a gene related to the target of quinolones, which could modulate the vesiculation level.A. laidlawiiextracellular vesicles mediated the export of the nucleotide sequences of the antibiotic target gene as well as the traffic of ciprofloxacin. These results may facilitate the development of effective approaches to control mycoplasma infections, as well as the contamination of cell cultures and vaccine preparations.
Effect of Mining Activities in Biotic Communities of Villa de la Paz, San Luis Potosi, Mexico
Authors: Espinosa-Reyes Guillermo , González-Mille Donaji J. , Ilizaliturri-Hernández César A. , Mejía-Saavedra Jesús , Cilia-López V. Gabriela , Costilla-Salazar Rogelio , Díaz-Barriga Fernando
Published: January 2014

Mining is one of the most important industrial activities worldwide. During its different stages numerous impacts are generated to the environment. The activities in the region have generated a great amount of mining residues, which have caused severe pollution and health effects in both human population and biotic components. The aim of this paper was to assess the impact of mining activities on biotic communities within the district of Villa de la Paz. The results showed that the concentrations of As and Pb in soil were higher than the national regulations for urban or agricultural areas. The bioavailability of these metals was certified by the presence of them in the roots of species of plants and in kidneys and livers of wild rodents. In regard to the community analysis, the sites that were located close to the mining district of Villa de la Paz registered a lower biological diversity, in both plants and wild rodents, aside from showing a change in the species composition of plant communities. The results of this study are evidence of the impact of mining on biotic communities, and the need to take into account the wildlife in the assessment of contaminated sites.
The Impact of Endovascular Repair of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm on the Gastrointestinal and Renal Function
Authors: Makar R. R. , Badger S. A. , O’Donnell M. E. , Soong C. V. , Lau L. L. , Young I. S. , Hannon R. J. , Lee B.
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Systemic effects of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) may be altered by the mode of surgery. This study aimed to determine systemic effects of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) compared to open repair (OR).Patients and Methods. Consecutive patients with rAAA were repaired by OR or EVAR according to computerised tomographic (CT) findings. Renal function was monitored by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), serum urea and creatinine, and urinary albumin creatinine ratio (ACR). Hepatic function was assessed postoperatively for 5 days. Intestinal function was determined by the paracetamol absorption test. Intestinal permeability was assessed by urinary lactulose/mannitol ratio.Results. 30 rAAA patients were included. Fourteen had eEVAR and sixteen eOR. Serum urea were higher in eOR, while creatinine was similar between groups. Hepatic function showed no intergroup difference. Paracetamol absorption was increased in eEVAR group at day 3 compared to day 1 (P=0.03), with no similar result in eOR (P=0.24). Peak lactulose/mannitol ratio was higher in eOR (P=0.03), with higher urinary L/M ratio in eOR at day 3 (P=0.02). Clinical intestinal function returned quicker in eEVAR (P=0.02).Conclusion. EVAR attenuated the organ dysfunction compared to open repair. However, a larger comparative trial would be required to validate this. The clinical trial is registered with reference number EUDRACT: 2013-003373-12.
Information Spread of Emergency Events: Path Searching on Social Networks
Authors: Dai Weihui , Hu Hongzhi , Wu Tunan , Dai Yonghui
Published: January 2014

Emergency has attracted global attentions of government and the public, and it will easily trigger a series of serious social problems if it is not supervised effectively in the dissemination process. In the Internet world, people communicate with each other and form various virtual communities based on social networks, which lead to a complex and fast information spread pattern of emergency events. This paper collects Internet data based on data acquisition and topic detection technology, analyzes the process of information spread on social networks, describes the diffusions and impacts of that information from the perspective of random graph, and finally seeks the key paths through an improved IBF algorithm. Application cases have shown that this algorithm can search the shortest spread paths efficiently, which may help us to guide and control the information dissemination of emergency events on early warning.
Hypoxia Enhances the Senescence Effect of Bortezomib—The Proteasome Inhibitor—On Human Skin Fibroblasts
Authors: Krętowski Rafał , Borzym-Kluczyk Małgorzata , Cechowska-Pasko Marzanna
Published: January 2014

The 26S proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, selectively induces apoptosis in some cancer cells. However, the nature of its selectivity remains unknown. The study presented here provides novel information on cellular effects of bortezomib in normal fibroblasts. We have found that in normoxic conditions the percent of apoptotic cells did not change significantly, independently on incubation time and examined concentration of bortezomib (25 nmol/L or 50 nmol/L). In hypoxic conditions we did not observe any effect of bortezomib on apoptosis of fibroblasts incubated for 24 h and 48 h in comparison to control. Only in the case of fibroblasts incubated for 12 hours in hypoxia significant increase in apoptosis, dependent on concentration of bortezomib, was observed. Our study has shown that bortezomib causes a time-dependent increase in senescence of normal fibroblasts, especially of these incubated in hypoxic conditions. Moreover, we demonstrated that oxygen regulated protein 150 (ORP150) expression was induced in fibroblasts in hypoxia conditions only, suggesting that this protein may play an important role in the cytoprotective response to environmental stress.
New Markers: Urine Xanthine Oxidase and Myeloperoxidase in the Early Detection of Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Ciragil Pınar , Kurutas Ergul Belge , Miraloglu Meral
Published: January 2014

Objectives.The aim of this study was to evaluate if xanthine oxidase and myeloperoxidase levels quantitation method may alternate routine culture method, which takes more time in the diagnosis of urinary tract infections.Material and Methods.Five hundred and forty-nine outpatients who had admitted to Clinic Microbiology Laboratory were included in the study. The microorganisms were identified by using VITEK System. The urine specimens that were negative from the quantitative urine culture were used as controls. The activities of MPO and XO in spot urine were measured by spectrophotometric method.Results.Through the urine cultures, 167 bacteria were isolated from 163 urine specimens; 386 cultures yielded no bacterial growth.E. coliwas the most frequent pathogen. In infection withE. coliboth XO and MPO levels were increased the most. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for XO were 100%, 100%, 100%, and 100%, respectively. These values for MPO were 87%, 100%, 100%, and 94%, respectively.Conclusion.These data obtained suggest that urine XO and MPO levels may be new markers in the early detection of UTI.
The Cortical Step Sign Fails to Prevent Malrotation of a Nailed Femoral Shaft Fracture: A Case Report
Authors: Tung Taranjit , Tufescu Ted
Published: January 2014

Intramedullary nailing has become the treatment of choice for diaphyseal femur fractures. Malrotation is a well-recognized complication of femoral nailing. Various techniques including the cortical step sign (CSS) have been described to minimize iatrogenic rotational deformity during femoral nailing. We present a case in which the use of the CSS resulted in a clinically significant malrotation requiring revision.
A Family of Fourteenth-Order Convergent Iterative Methods for Solving Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Zafar Fiza , Bibi Gulshan
Published: January 2014

We present a family of fourteenth-order convergent iterative methods for solving nonlinear equations involving a specific step which when combined with any two-step iterative method raises the convergence order by n+10, if n is the order of convergence of the two-step iterative method. This new class include four evaluations of function and one evaluation of the first derivative per iteration. Therefore, the efficiency index of this family is 141/5 =1.695218203. Several numerical examples are given to show that the new methods of this family are comparable with the existing methods.
q-Sumudu Transforms ofq-Analogues of Bessel Functions
Authors: Uçar Faruk
Published: January 2014

The main purpose of this paper is to evaluateq-Sumudu transforms of a product ofq-Bessel functions. Interesting special cases of theorems are also discussed. Further, the results proved in this paper may find certain applications ofq-Sumudu transforms to the solutions of theq-integrodifferential equations involvingq-Bessel functions. The results may help to extend theq-theory of orthogonal functions.
Energy Absorption and Exposure Buildup Factors of Essential Amino Acids
Authors: Bursalıoğlu Ertuğrul , Balkan Begüm , Kavanoz H. Birtan , Okutan Mustafa , İçelli Orhan , Yalçın Zeynel
Published: January 2014

The effective atomic number and effective electron density in amino acids are of significant interest due to their use in various applications. The energy absorption buildup factors, exposure buildup factors, effective atomic numbers, and electron densities of essential amino acids such as Leucine (C6H13NO2), Lysine (C6H14N2O2), Methionine (C5H11NO2S), Phenylalanine (C9H11NO2), Threonine (C4H9NO3), Tryptophan (C11H12N2O2), Valine (C5H11NO2), Arginine (C6H14N4O2), and Histidine (C6H9N3O2) were determined theoretically in the energy range 0.015–15 MeV.
Clay and Soil Photolysis of the Pesticides Mesotrione and Metsulfuron Methyl
Authors: Siampiringue Marie , Wong Wah Chung Pascal , Koriko Moursalou , Tchangbedji Gado , Sarakha Mohamed
Published: January 2014

Photolysis may represent an important degradation process of pollutants at the surface of soil. In the present work, we report a detailed study on the degradation of two pesticides: mesotrione and metsulfuron methyl using a sunlight simulator. In a first step, we studied the photochemical behaviour at the surface of clays from the kinetic as well as from the analytical point of view. In both cases, the quantum yields were found to be higher when compared to those obtained in aqueous solutions. The effect of iron(III), water, and humic substances contents was studied. In the former cases, an increase of the degradation rate was observed while an inhibition was observed with the latter owing to a filter effect phenomenon. In a second step, we studied the photodegradation at the surface of natural soil and identified the generated byproducts. They appear to mainly arise from photohydrolysis process.
Clinicohematological Study of Thrombocytosis in Children
Authors: Subramaniam Nathiya , Mundkur Suneel , Kini Pushpa , Bhaskaranand Nalini , Aroor Shrikiran
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Primary thrombocytosis is very rare in children; reactive thrombocytosis is frequently observed in children with infections, anemia, and many other causes. Aims and Objectives. To identify the etiology of thrombocytosis in children and to analyze platelet indices (MPV, PDW, and PCT) in children with thrombocytosis. Study Design. A prospective observational study. Material and Methods. A total of 1000 patients with thrombocytosis (platelet > 400×109/L) were studied over a period of 2 years. Platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), and plateletcrit (PCT) were noted. Results. Of 1000 patients, 99.8% had secondary thrombocytosis and only two children had primary thrombocytosis (chronic myeloid leukemia and acute myelogenous leukemia, M7). The majority of the children belonged to the age group of 1month to 2 years (39.7%) and male to female ratio was 1.6 : 1. Infection with anemia (48.3%) was the most common cause of secondary thrombocytosis followed by iron deficiency alone (17.2%) and infection alone (16.2%). Respiratory infection (28.3%) was the predominant infectious cause observed. Thrombocytosis was commonly associated with IDA among all causes of anemia and severity of thrombocytosis increased with severity of anemia (P=0.021). With increasing platelet count, there was a decrease in MPV (<0.001). Platelet count and mean PDW among children with infection and anemia were significantly higher than those among children with infection alone and anemia alone. None were observed to have thromboembolic manifestations. Conclusions. Primary thrombocytosis is extremely rare in children than secondary thrombocytosis. Infections in association with anemia are most commonly associated with reactive thrombocytosis and severity of thrombocytosis increases with severity of anemia.
Altered Metabolic Profile in Congenital Lung Lesions Revealed by 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Mimmi Maria Chiara , Ballico Maurizio , Nakib Ghassan , Calcaterra Valeria , Peiro Jose Louis , Marotta Mario , Pelizzo Gloria
Published: January 2014

Congenital lung lesions are highly complex with respect to pathogenesis and treatment. Large-scale analytical methods, like metabolomics, are now available to identify biomarkers of pathological phenotypes and to facilitate clinical management. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is a unique tool for translational research, as in vitro results can be potentially translated into in vivo magnetic resonance protocols. Three surgical biopsies, from congenital lung malformations, were analyzed in comparison with one control sample. Extracted hydrophilic metabolites were submitted to high resolution 1H NMR spectroscopy and the relative concentration of 12 metabolites was estimated. In addition, two-dimensional NMR measurements were performed to complement the results obtained from standard monodimensional experiments. This is one of the first reports of in vitro metabolic profiling of congenital lung malformation. Preliminary data on a small set of samples highlights some altered metabolic ratios, dealing with the glucose conversion to lactate, to the relative concentration of phosphatidylcholine precursors, and to the presence of myoinositol. Interestingly some relations between congenital lung lesions and cancer metabolic alterations are found.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Screening of Some 1-Aroyl-3-aryl Thiourea Derivatives
Authors: Soni Love Kumar , Narsinghani Tamanna , Jain Rica
Published: January 2014

A series of 1-aroyl-3-aryl thioureas derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for antibacterial activity. The results indicated that the compounds possessed higher activity against gram-negative bacteria than gram-positive bacteria. Amongst all these compounds, C18 (89.4%) exhibited the greatest antibacterial activity against gram-negative bacteria while C5 (85.6%) displayed maximum antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria. Preliminary study of the structure-activity relationship revealed that an electronic factor on aryl rings had a great effect on the antibacterial activity of these compounds.
ACE-I/ARB Therapy prior to Contrast Exposure: What Should the Clinician Do?
Authors: Kalyesubula Robert , Bagasha Peace , Perazella Mark A.
Published: January 2014

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is now one of the three leading causes of acute kidney injury in the world. A lot is known about the risk factors of CIN, yet it remains a major cause of morbidity, end stage renal disease, prolonged hospital stay, and increased costs as well as a high mortality. Many patients undergoing contrast-based radiological investigations are treated with angiotensin converting inhibitors (ACE-Is) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) for their cardiac and renal benefits and their known mortality benefits. However, controversy exists among clinicians as to whether ACE-Is and ARBs should be continued or discontinued prior to contrast media exposure. In this paper we review the current evidence on ACE-I/ARB therapy for patients undergoing procedures involving use of contrast media and provide recommendations as to whether these drugs should be continued or held prior to contrast exposure.
Compatibility Studies on Elastomers and Polymers with Ethanol Blended Gasoline
Authors: Dhaliwal J. S. , Negi M. S. , Kapur G. S. , Kant Shashi
Published: January 2014

This paper reports the compatibility studies of 10% ethanol blended gasoline (E10) with four types of elastomer materials, namely, Neoprene rubber, Nitrile rubber, hydrogenated Nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR), and Polyvinyl chloride/Nitrile butadiene rubber blend (PVC/NBR), and two types of plastic materials, namely, Nylon-66 and Polyoxymethylene (Delrin). These materials have applications in automotives as engine seals, gaskets, fuel system seals and hoses, and so forth. Two types of the ethanol blended gasoline mixtures were used: (a) gasoline containing 5% ethanol (E5), which is commercial form of gasoline available in India, and (b) gasoline containing 10% ethanol (E10). The above materials were immersed in E5 and E10 for 500 hrs at 55°C. A set of eight different properties in E5 and E10 (visual inspection, weight change, volume change, tensile strength, percent elongation, flexural strength, impact strength, and hardness) were measured after completion of 500 hrs and compared with reference specimens (specimens at 55°C without fuel and specimens at ambient conditions). Variation observed in different materials with respect to the above eight properties has been used to draw inference about the compatibility of these elastomeric/polymer materials with E10 fuel vis-à-vis E5 fuels. The data presented in this study is comparative in nature between the results of E10 and E5.
Photophysical, Photochemical, and BQ Quenching Properties of Zinc Phthalocyanines with Fused or Interrupted Extended Conjugation
Authors: Gümrükçü Gülşah , Karaoğlan Gülnur Keser , Erdoğmuş Ali , Gül Ahmet , Avcıata Ulvi
Published: January 2014

The effects of substituents and solvents on the photophysical and photochemical parameters of zinc(II) phthalocyanines containing four Schiff’s base substituents attached directly and through phenyleneoxy-bridges on peripheral positions are reported. The group effects on peripheral position and the continual and intermittent conjugation of the phthalocyanine molecules on the photophysical and photochemical properties are also investigated. General trends are described for photodegradation, singlet oxygen, and fluorescence quantum yields of these compounds in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), dimethylformamide (DMF), and tetrahydrofurane (THF). Among the different substituents, phthalocyanines with cinnamaldimine moieties (1cand2c) have the highest singlet oxygen quantum yields (ΦΔ) and those with nitro groups (1aand2a) have the highest fluorescence quantum yields in all the solvents used. The fluorescence of the substituted zinc(II) phthalocyanine complexes is effectively quenched by 1,4-benzoquinone (BQ) in these solvents.
Pain Symptoms in Fibromyalgia Patients with and without Provoked Vulvodynia
Authors: Ghizzani Anna , Di Sabatino Valentina , Suman Anna Lisa , Biasi Giovanni , Santarcangelo Enrica Laura , Carli Giancarlo
Published: January 2014

Objective. The aim of the study was to compare the pain symptoms of fibromyalgia patients exhibiting (FMS+PVD) and not exhibiting (FMS) comorbidity with provoked vulvodynia. Study Design. The case control study was performed in 39 patients who had been diagnosed with FMS and accepted to undergo gynaecological examination and in 36 healthy women (C). All patients completed standardized questionnaires for pain intensity, pain area, and psychological functioning. The gynaecological examination included vulvar pain pressure reactivity (Q-tip), pelvic tone assessment (Kegel manoeuver), and a semistructured interview collecting detailed information about pelvic symptoms and sexual function. Results. FMS+PVD patients displayed a higher number of associated symptoms than FMS patients. The vulvar excitability was significantly higher in FMS+PVD than in FMS and in both groups than in Controls. Half of FMS+PVD patients were positive to Kegel manoeuver and displayed higher scores in widespread pain intensity, STAI-Y2, and CESD levels than Kegel negative patients. Conclusions. The study reveals that increased vulvar pain excitability may occur in FMS patients independently of the presence of coital pain. Results suggest that coital pain develops in patients with higher FMS symptoms severity due to the cooperative effects of peripheral and central sensitization mechanisms.
Gold Nanorods Incorporated Cathode for Better Performance of Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Mahmoud Alaa Y. , Izquierdo Ricardo , Truong Vo-Van
Published: January 2014

The effect of inserting low density of gold nanorods in the metallic rear electrode of polymer solar cells on their performance was studied. Gold nanorods were introduced by spin‐coating their aqueous solution directly on top of the poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl):[6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric‐acid‐methyl‐ester layer. The resulting devices showed a 5% increase in the short circuit current that leads to a 14% enhancement in the power conversion efficiency. Investigation on the photocurrent spectral response of devices with/without gold nanorods revealed that incorporating the rods helped in enhancing the devices photogenerated current near the plasmonic absorption modes of the rods. The enhancement in the devices efficiency is related to the increase in their absorptivity due to the far‐field and near‐field effect of localized surface plasmon resonance induced by the presence of the rods in the interface between the photoactive layer and the metallic rear electrode.
Medium-/Long-Term Effects of a Specific Exercise Protocol Combined with Patient Education on Spine Mobility, Chronic Fatigue, Pain, Aerobic Fitness and Level of Disability in Fibromyalgia
Authors: Giannotti Erika , Koutsikos Konstantinos , Pigatto Maurizia , Rampudda Maria Elisa , Doria Andrea , Masiero Stefano
Published: January 2014

Objective. To propose a rehabilitation protocol able to produce immediate and long-term beneficial effects on level of disability and overall performance in ADLs.Materials and Methods. Forty-one FM patients were randomized to an exercise and educational-behavioral programme group (experimental group, EG = 21) or to a control group (CG = 20). Each subject was evaluated before, at the end (T1), and after 6 months (T6) from the conclusion of the rehabilitation treatment using the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), the visual analogue scale (VAS), the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), the fatigue severity scale (FSS), the 6-minute walking test (6MWT), tender points count (TPC), and spinal active range of motion. The exercise protocol included 20 sessions consisting in self-awareness, stretching, strengthening, spine flexibility, and aerobic exercises, which patients were subsequently educated to perform at home.Results. The two groups were comparable at baseline. At T1, the EG showed a positive trend in FIQ, VAS, HAQ, and FSS scales and significant improvement in 6MWT and in most spinal active range of motion measurements (Pbetween 0.001 and 0.04). The positive results were maintained at the follow-up.Conclusion. The proposed programme was well tolerated and produced immediate and medium-term beneficial effects improving function and strain endurance. This trial is registered withDRKS00005071on DRKS.
On Common Coupled Fixed Point Theorems for Comparable Mappings in Ordered Partially Metric Spaces
Authors: Mutlu Ali , Yolcu Nermin , Mutlu Berrin , Bildik Necdet
Published: January 2014

Common coupled fixed point theorems are examined in this paper for comparable mappings ensuring nonlinear contraction in ordered partial metric spaces. Given theorems enlarge and universalize some conclusions of Gnana Bhaskar and Lakshmikantham (2006).
Ultrastructure and Light Microscope Analysis of Intact Skin after a Varying Number of Low Level Laser Irradiations in Mice
Authors: Iyomasa Mamie Mizusaki , Caroline Leão Juliane , Camargo Rizzi Élen , Issa João Paulo Mardegan , Dias Fernando José , Watanabe Ii-sei , Iyomasa Daniela Mizusaki
Published: January 2014

Low level laser therapy (LLLT) has been used to relieve pain, inflammation, and wound healing processes. Thus, the skin is overexposed to laser and this effect is not completely understood. This study analyzed the effects of the number of laser applications (three, six, and 10) on the intact skin of the masseteric region in mice of strain HRS/J. The animals(n=30)were equally divided into control (0 J/cm2) and irradiated (20 J/cm2), and each of these groups was further equally divided according to the number of laser applications (three, six, and 10) and underwent LLLT on alternate days. Samples were analyzed by light microscopy and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The animals receiving applications exhibited open channels more dilated between the keratinocytes and photobiomodulation effect on endothelial cells and fibroblasts by TEM. Under the light microscope after 10 laser applications, the type I collagen decreased(P<0.05)compared to the three and six applications. Under these experimental conditions, all numbers of applications provided photobiomodulatory effect on the epidermis and dermis, without damage. More studies are needed to standardize the energy density and number of applications recommended for laser therapy to have a better cost-benefit ratio associated with treatment.
P-Cresyl Sulfate Is a Valuable Predictor of Clinical Outcomes in Pre-ESRD Patients
Authors: Lin Cheng-Jui , Pan Chi-Feng , Chuang Chih-Kuang , Sun Fang-Ju , Wang Duen-Jen , Chen Han-Hsiang , Liu Hsuan-Liang , Wu Chih-Jen
Published: January 2014

Background/Aims. Previous studies have reported p-cresyl sulfate (PCS) was related to endothelial dysfunction and adverse clinical effect. We investigate the adverse effects of PCS on clinical outcomes in a chronic kidney disease (CKD) cohort study.Methods. 72 predialysis patients were enrolled from a single medical center. Serum biochemistry data and PCS were measured. The clinical outcomes including cardiovascular event, all-cause mortality, and dialysis event were recorded during a 3-year follow-up.Results. After adjusting other independent variables, multivariate Cox regression analysis showed age (HR: 1.12,P=0.01), cardiovascular disease history (HR: 6.28,P=0.02), and PCS (HR: 1.12,P=0.02) were independently associated with cardiovascular event; age (HR: 0.91,P<0.01), serum albumin (HR: 0.03,P<0.01), and PCS level (HR: 1.17,P<0.01) reached significant correlation with dialysis event. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that patients with higher serum p-cresyl sulfate (>6 mg/L) were significantly associated with cardiovascular and dialysis event (log rankP=0.03, log rankP<0.01, resp.).Conclusion. Our study shows serum PCS could be a valuable marker in predicting cardiovascular event and renal function progression in CKD patients without dialysis.
Structural and Optothermal Properties of Iron Ditelluride Layered Structures in the Framework of the Lattice Compatibility Theory
Authors: Ben Messaoud K. , Gantassi A. , Essaidi H. , Ouerfelli J. , Colantoni A. , Boubaker K. , Amlouk M.
Published: January 2014

This study concerns structural and optothermal properties of iron ditelluride layered structures which were fabricated via a low-cost protocol. The main precursors were FeCl3· 6H2O and Fe2O3. After a heat treatment within a tellurium-rich medium at various temperatures (470°C, 500°C, and 530°C) during 24 h, classical analyses have been applied to the iron ditelluride layered structures. A good crystalline state with a preferential orientation of the crystallites along (111) direction has been recorded. Moreover, additional opto-thermal investigation and analyses within the framework of the Lattice Compatibility Theory gave plausible explanation for prompt temperature-dependent incorporation of tellurium element inside hematite elaborated matrices.
On Fuzzy Rough Sets and Their Topological Structures
Authors: Tang Weidong , Wu Jinzhao , Zheng Dingwei
Published: January 2014

The core concepts of rough set theory are information systems and approximation operators of approximation spaces. Approximation operators draw close links between rough set theory and topology. This paper is devoted to the discussion of fuzzy rough sets and their topological structures. Fuzzy rough approximations are further investigated. Fuzzy relations are researched by means of topology or lower and upper sets. Topological structures of fuzzy approximation spaces are given by means of pseudoconstant fuzzy relations. Fuzzy topology satisfying (CC) axiom is investigated. The fact that there exists a one‐to‐one correspondence between the set of all preorder fuzzy relations and the set of all fuzzy topologies satisfying (CC) axiom is proved, the concept of fuzzy approximating spaces is introduced, and decision conditions that a fuzzy topological space is a fuzzy approximating space are obtained, which illustrates that we can research fuzzy relations or fuzzy approximation spaces by means of topology and vice versa. Moreover, fuzzy pseudoclosure operators are examined.
Atorvastatin Combining with Probucol: A New Way to Reduce Serum Uric Acid Level during Perioperative Period of Interventional Procedure
Authors: Li Hong , Li Ximing , Ma Hongjun , Wang Yiran , Fu Naikuan , Jin Dongxia , Cong Hongliang
Published: January 2014

Uric acid has ever been considered as one of contrast induced acute kidney injury’s risk factors. Atorvastatin and probucol can both improve contrast induced acute kidney injury separately. This prospective study is to assess their effect on reducing serum uric acid level and contrast induced acute kidney injury during perioperative period of interventional procedure. On the basis of different doses of atorvastatin and probucol, 208 cases admitted for coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention were randomly classified into standard combined group (S-C group), intensive combined group (I-C group), and intensive atorvastatin group (I-A group). Patients’ blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and serum uric acid were measured and estimated glomerular filtration rate was evaluated 24 hours before and after the procedure. After procedure, blood urea nitrogen in all the three groups decreased; Scr of S-C group and I-A group increased significantly, while estimated glomerular filtration decreased in the S-C group (P<0.05); serum uric acid in S-C group and I-C group decreased significantly (P<0.05). Combination treatment of atorvastatin and probucol before intervention could reduce perioperative serum uric acid level; meanwhile, the intensive combined treatment can improve the contrast induced acute kidney injury. The result was the same for hypertensive patients.
Backup of Renewable Energy for an Electrical Island: Case Study of Israeli Electricity System—Current Status
Authors: Fakhouri A. , Kuperman A.
Published: January 2014

The paper focuses on the quantitative analysis of Israeli Government’s targets of 10% renewable energy penetration by 2020 and determining the desired methodology (models) for assessing the effects on the electricity market, addressing the fact that Israel is an electricity island. The main objective is to determine the influence of achieving the Government’s goals for renewable energy penetration on the need for backup in the Israeli electricity system. This work presents the current situation of the Israeli electricity market and the study to be taken in order to assess the undesirable effects resulting from the intermittency of electricity generated by wind and solar power stations as well as presents some solutions to mitigating these phenomena. Future work will focus on a quantitative analysis of model runs and determine the amounts of backup required relative to the amount of installed capacity from renewable resources.
Multilayer Stock Forecasting Model Using Fuzzy Time Series
Authors: Javedani Sadaei Hossein , Lee Muhammad Hisyam
Published: January 2014

After reviewing the vast body of literature on using FTS in stock market forecasting, certain deficiencies are distinguished in the hybridization of findings. In addition, the lack of constructive systematic framework, which can be helpful to indicate direction of growth in entire FTS forecasting systems, is outstanding. In this study, we propose a multilayer model for stock market forecasting including five logical significant layers. Every single layer has its detailed concern to assist forecast development by reconciling certain problems exclusively. To verify the model, a set of huge data containing Taiwan Stock Index (TAIEX), National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (NASDAQ), Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI), and S&P 500 have been chosen as experimental datasets. The results indicate that the proposed methodology has the potential to be accepted as a framework for model development in stock market forecasts using FTS.
X-Ray Diffraction and Vibrational Spectroscopic Characteristics of Hydroxylclinohumite from Ruby-Bearing Marbles (Luc Yen District, Vietnam)
Authors: Hurai V. , Wierzbicka-Wieczorek M. , Pentrák M. , Huraiová M. , Thomas R. , Swierczewska A. , Luptáková J.
Published: January 2014

A honey-yellow hydroxylclinohumite from ruby-bearing marbles of the Luc Yen district in northern Vietnam was characterized by electron microprobe (EPMA), single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD), micro-Raman, and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The studied crystals correspond to nearly ideal clinohumite with the structural formula 4[Mg2SiO4]·[(Mg,Fe,Ti)(OH,F)2] and roughly equal F and OH proportions. Crystal structure analysis showed Ti substitution for Mg only at the Mg3 site. A Fourier-difference map revealed one hydrogen site associated with ninth oxygen atom. The calculated O–H bond distance was shorter than that in other natural clinohumites. FTIR revealed bands corresponding to combination of OH-stretching with Mg–OH and/or Fe–OH bending modes, combinations of OH−and Fe–OH vibrations, combination of fundamental bands of the Si–OH bonding, combination of OH−and Si–OH vibrations, and first (2νOH) and the second (3νOH) overtones of the OH-stretching vibration mode. Two groups of OH-stretching vibration and FTIR absorption bands at 3390–3420 cm−1and 3560–3580 cm−1show reversible temperature-dependent shift. The low-frequency bands absent in pure synthetic hydroxylclinohumites are assigned to OH-planar defects caused by Ti-for-Mg substitution.
Botanical, Pharmacological, Phytochemical, and Toxicological Aspects of the Antidiabetic Plant Bidens pilosa L.
Authors: Yang Wen-Chin
Published: January 2014

Bidens pilosa L. is an easy‐to‐grow, widespread, and palatable perennial on earth. Hence, it has traditionally been used as foods and medicines without noticeable adverse effects. Despite significant advancement in chemical and biological studies of B. pilosa over the past few years, comprehensive and critical reviews on its anti‐diabetic properties are missing. The present review is to summarize up‐to‐date information on the pharmacology, phytochemistry, and toxicology of B. pilosa, in regard to type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes from the literature. In addition to botanical studies and records of the traditional use of B. pilosa in diabetes, scientific studies investigating antidiabetic action of this species and its active phytochemicals are presented and discussed. The structure and biosynthesis of B. pilosa and its polyynes in relation to their anti‐diabetic action and mechanism are emphasized. Although some progress has been made, rigorous efforts are further required to unlock the molecular basis and structure‐activity relationship of the polyynes isolated from B. pilosa before their clinical applications. The present review provides preliminary information and gives guidance for further anti‐diabetic research and development of this plant.
A Characterization of Jordan Homomorphism on Banach Algebras
Authors: Zivari-Kazempour Abbas
Published: January 2014

Let 𝒜 and ℬ be Banach algebras and let φ:𝒜→ℬ be a Jordan homomorphism. We show that, under special hypotheses, φ is ring homomorphism. Some related results are given as well.
Comparison of Topical Anesthetics for Radiofrequency Ablation of Achrocordons: Eutectic Mixture of Lignocaine/Prilocaine versus Lidocaine/Tetracaine
Authors: Gahalaut Pratik , Mishra Nitin , Chauhan Sandhya , Rastogi Madhur Kant
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Topical application of local anesthetics is currently considered to be the easiest, most effective, and convenient way for treatment of patients who may be undergoing superficial dermatosurgical procedures. Materials and Methods. This study compares the anesthetic potential of 2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine topical cream with 7% lignocaine and 7% tetracaine combination cream for radio ablative dermatosurgery when applied, under occlusion, for 30 minutes. 40 subjects of achrocordons were enrolled in this split-side randomized trial. Result. The pain severity experienced by subjects in terms of visual analogue scale score was significantly lesser for lignocaine/tetracaine combination cream as compared to lidocaine/prilocaine combination. Conclusion. This small study proves the efficacy of lidocaine/tetracaine combination as a topical anesthetic cream when applied for a short time interval of 30 minutes. This will help a dermatosurgeon to perform various dermatological procedures in a better and efficient manner with a shorter waiting period for analgesia to set in.
Ixora coccinea Enhances Cutaneous Wound Healing by Upregulating the Expression of Collagen and Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor
Authors: Upadhyay Aadesh , Chattopadhyay Pronobesh , Goyary Danswrang , Mitra Mazumder Papiya , Veer Vijay
Published: January 2014

Background. Ixora coccinea L. (Rubiaceae) has been documented for traditional use in hypertension, menstrual irregularities, sprain, chronic ulcer, and skin diseases. In the present study, I. coccinea was subjected to in vitro and in vivo wound healing investigation. Methods. Petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, and water sequential I. coccinea leaves extracts were evaluated for in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial, and fibroblast proliferation activities. The promising I. coccinea methanol extract (IxME) was screened for in vivo wound healing activity in Wistar rat using circular excision model. Wound contraction measurement, hydroxyproline quantification, and western blot for collagen type III (COL3A1), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and Smad-2, -3, -4, and -7 was performed with 7-day postoperative wound granulation tissue. Gentamicin sulfate (0.01% w/w) hydrogel was used as reference standard. Results. IxME showed the potent antimicrobial, antioxidant activities, with significant fibroblast proliferation inducing activity, as compared to all other extracts. In vivo study confirmed the wound healing accelerating potential of IxME, as evidenced by faster wound contraction, higher hydroxyproline content, and improved histopathology of granulation tissue. Western blot analysis revealed that the topical application of I. coccinea methanol extract stimulates the fibroblast growth factor and Smad mediated collagen production in wound tissue.
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Investigation on the Clinical Lifetime of ProTaper Rotary File System
Authors: Penta Virgil , Pirvu Cristian , Demetrescu Ioana
Published: January 2014

The main objective of the current paper is to show that electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) could be a method for evaluating and predicting of ProTaper rotary file system clinical lifespan. This particular aspect of everyday use of the endodontic files is of great importance in each dental practice and has profound clinical implications. The method used for quantification resides in the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy theory and has in its main focus the characteristics of the surface titanium oxide layer. This electrochemical technique has been adapted successfully to identify the quality of the Ni-Ti files oxide layer. The modification of this protective layer induces changes in corrosion behavior of the alloy modifying the impedance value of the file. In order to assess the method, 14 ProTaper sets utilized on different patients in a dental clinic have been submitted for testing using EIS. The information obtained in regard to the surface oxide layer has offered an indication of use and proves that the said layer evolves with each clinical application. The novelty of this research is related to an electrochemical technique successfully adapted for Ni-Ti file investigation and correlation with surface and clinical aspects.
Numerical Solution of Boundary Layer MHD Flow with Viscous Dissipation
Authors: Mishra S. R. , Jena S.
Published: January 2014

The present paper deals with a steady two-dimensional laminar flow of a viscous incompressible electrically conducting fluid over a shrinking sheet in the presence of uniform transverse magnetic field with viscous dissipation. Using suitable similarity transformations the governing partial differential equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations and then solved numerically by fourth-order Runge-Kutta method with shooting technique. Results for velocity and temperature profiles for different values of the governing parameters have been discussed in detail with graphical representation. The numerical evaluation of skin friction and Nusselt number are also given in this paper.
Is Walking Capacity in Subjects with Multiple Sclerosis Primarily Related to Muscle Oxidative Capacity or Maximal Muscle Strength? A Pilot Study
Authors: Hansen Dominique , Feys Peter , Wens Inez , Eijnde Bert O.
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose. Walking capacity is reduced in subjects with multiple sclerosis (MS). To develop effective exercise interventions to enhance walking capacity, it is important to determine the impact of factors, modifiable by exercise intervention (maximal muscle strength versus muscle oxidative capacity), on walking capacity. The purpose of this pilot study is to discriminate between the impact of maximal muscle strength versus muscle oxidative capacity on walking capacity in subjects with MS.Methods. From 24 patients with MS, muscle oxidative capacity was determined by calculation of exercise-onset oxygen uptake kinetics (mean response time) during submaximal exercise bouts. Maximal muscle strength (isometric knee extension and flexion peak torque) was assessed on dynamometer. All subjects completed a 6-minute walking test. Relationships between walking capacity (as a percentage of normal value) and muscle strength (of knee flexors and extensors) versus muscle oxidative capacity were assessed in multivariate regression analyses.Results. The expanded disability status score (EDSS) showed a significant univariate correlation (r=-0.70,P<0.004) with walking capacity. In multivariate regression analyses, EDSS and mean response time, but not muscle strength, were independently related to walking capacity (P<0.05).Conclusions. Walking distance is, next to disability level and not taking neurologic symptoms/deficits into account, primarily related to muscle oxidative capacity in subjects with MS. Additional study is needed to further examine/verify these findings.
Effects of Organic Solvents for Composite Active Layer of PCDTBT/PC71BM on Characteristics of Organic Solar Cell Devices
Authors: Shin Paik-Kyun , Kumar Palanisamy , Kumar Abhirami , Kannappan Santhakumar , Ochiai Shizuyasu
Published: January 2014

Bulk heterojunction (BHJ) structure based active layers of PCDTBT/PC71BM were prepared by using different organic solvents for fabrication of organic solar cell (OSC) devices. Mixture of precursor solutions of PCDTBT/PC71BM in three different organic solvents was prepared to fabricate composite active layers by spin-coating process: chloroform; chlorobenzene; o-dichlorobenzene. Four different blend ratios (1 : 3–1 : 6) of PCDTBT: PC71BM were adopted for each organic solvent to clarify the effect on the resulting OSC device characteristics. Surface morphology of the active layers was distinctively affected by the blend ratio of PCDTBT/PC71BM in organic solvents. Influence of the blend ratio of PCDTBT/PC71BM on the OSC device parameters was discussed. Performance parameters of the resulting OSC devices with different composite active layers were comparatively investigated. Appropriate blend ratio and organic solvent to achieve better OSC device performance were proposed. Furthermore, from the UV-Vis spectrum of each active layer prepared using the PCDTBT/PC71BM mixed solution dissolved with different organic solvents, a possibility that the nanophase separation structure inside their active layer could appear was suggested.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on Tire Tread Block Friction Characteristics Based on a New Test Device
Authors: Wu J. , Wang Y. S. , Su B. L. , Liu Q.
Published: January 2014

A new device was developed for tire tread block slip friction tests. Then the friction characteristics were investigated under different loads and contact roads. Based on this, a friction model for contact between tire tread block and different road surfaces was developed. A finite element slip friction model of rubber block was developed for studying the tread contact stress, stiffness under different pattern slope angles, and ditch radius. Results indicate that friction coefficient between tread and ice road increases when the temperature decreases; different tread patterns have a certain influence on the friction coefficient; its average difference was less than 10%. Different roads impact the coefficient of friction more significantly; the greater the pattern slope, the greater the radial stiffness.