bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La supervision de stagiaires : un art qui s’apprend
Authors: Cardinal Dominique , Couturier Lucie , Savard Jacinthe , Tremblay Manon , Desmarais Mélanie
Published: July 2014

L’Art de superviser des stagiaires est un programme de formation du CNFS — volet Université d’Ottawa visant à outiller les superviseurs qui accompagnent des stagiaires dans leur processus de professionnalisation. Ces ateliers, offerts en ligne ou en présentiel aux professionnels de la santé et des services sociaux oeuvrant dans les communautés francophones minoritaires au Canada, abordent des thèmes comme l’évaluation du rendement et la gestion de conflits. Des données recueillies par questionnaires indiquent qu’à la suite de la formation, les superviseurs se sentent plus à l’aise et intègrent dans leurs tâches de supervision des stratégies et des outils d’encadrement.
Copper‐Catalyzed Three‐Component Azidotrifluoromethylation/Difunctionalization of Alkenes
Authors: Yang Mingbo , Wang Wenlu , Liu Yin , Feng Lijie , Ju Xuexia
Published: July 2014

A novel three‐component strategy for the azidotrifluoromethylation of alkenes has been presented here. The reaction proceeded smoothly under gentle temperature and gave the bifunctional olefins in high yields. Furthermore, 1,3‐dipolar reactions between azide‐containing products and phenylacetylene revealed great potential in molecular modification by using this method.
Water‐Promoted Ring‐Opening Reactions of N‐Substituted Saccharins and Phthalimides by Amines
Authors: Bai Lisha , Zhang Xuan , Ma Ning
Published: July 2014

The reactions of N‐substituted saccharins and phthalimides with amines were promoted by water. Various o‐sulfamoyl benzamides and N,N′‐disubstituted phthalamides were prepared in moderate to good yields. These reactions have prominent advantages, such as short reaction time, less by‐products and simple isolation of the products. Water can probably stabilize the reaction intermediates and facilitate precipitation of the ring‐opening products. When steric hindrance arose, hydrolytic compounds, either free acid or salts of the acids, were obtained. Possible reason for the formation of amine salts of o‐sulfamoyl benzoic acids was proposed.
A New Cyclization/Decarboxylation Reaction of Isatins with Acyl Chlorides for the Facile Synthesis of 3‐Alkenyl‐Oxindoles
Authors: Chen Lin , Wu Zhijun , Peng Lin , Wang Qilin , Xu Xiaoying , Wang Lixin
Published: July 2014

The first cyclization/decarboxylation reaction of isatins with acyl chlorides promoted by 4‐dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP) was described and a series of desired 3‐alkenyl‐oxindoles were obtained in good yields (up to 80%) and E/Z selectivities (up to 6.4/1). This protocol provided a new and feasible access to 3‐alkenyl‐oxindoles.
Absolute Configurational Assignments of Amino Acid Esters by a CD‐Sensitive Malonamide‐Linked Zinc Bisporphyrinate Host
Authors: Liu Baozhen , Jiang Jiaxun , Fang Xianshi , Hu Chuanjiang
Published: July 2014

A novel malonamide‐linked zinc bisporphyrinate [Zn2‐1] has been designed and synthesized. UV‐vis and NMR spectroscopic studies suggest the molecule aggregates in solution. Such zinc bisporphyrinate is very CD‐sensitive when it is mixed with amino acid ethyl esters. The amplitude value of the induced circular dichroism (ICD) is up to ca. 1500 L·mol−1·cm−1. Further studies by 1H NMR and UV‐vis spectroscopies reveal amino acid esters function as monodentate ligands, and [Zn2‐1] interacts with amino acid ethyl esters through coordination and hydrogen bonding interactions.
Polyvinylpyrrolidone as an Efficient Stabilizer for Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Huang Weidong , Zhang Linxia , Yang Qiuping , Wang Zhimin
Published: July 2014

Aggregation of nanoparticles is a serious problem in their applications. In this article, stability of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was initially studied with different concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl). Surfactant screening showed that polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was an ideal stabilizer, which not only was effective at a low concentration (0.1%, V/V), but also could protect silver colloids from aggregation for a long period at 1 mol·L−1 NaCl, and 6 h even at 3 mol·L−1 NaCl. However, some other surfactants, such as sodium dodecyl (SDS), Triton X‐100, Tween‐20, and Tween‐80, could not prevent AgNPs from aggregation even at a high concentration up to 0.5% (V/V). This AgNPs stabilizer is simple and convenient for a variety of applications compared with others.
Complexation of Triptycene‐Derived Macrotricyclic Host Containing Pyridine Groups with Paraquat Derivatives: A Switchable Process Controlled by Zn2+ Ions
Authors: Han Ying , Guo Jiabin , Chen Chuanfeng
Published: July 2014

A triptycene‐derived macrotricyclic host containing two pyridine groups was synthesized, and it could form 1:1 stable host‐guest complexes with paraquat derivatives in both solution and solid state. Moreover, it was also found that binding and releasing of the guest molecules in the complexes could be efficiently controlled by zinc ions.
Atomic Layer Deposition of Groups 4 and 5 Transition Metal Oxide Thin Films: Focus on Heteroleptic Precursors
Authors: Blanquart Timothee , Niinistö Jaakko , Ritala Mikko , Leskelä Markku
Published: July 2014

The atomic layer deposition (ALD) process, an alternative to CVD, is universally appreciated for its unique advantages such as excellent repeatability, conformity, and thickness control at the atomic level. ALD precursor chemistry has mainly been based on homoleptic compounds such as, but not limited to, metal halides, alkylamides, and alkoxides, however these precursors have drawbacks such as possible halide contamination and low thermal stabilities in the case of the alkylamides and alkoxides. Consequently, heteroleptic precursors have been investigated as alternatives to the existing homoleptic counterparts, leading to the development of several advantageous processes. Nevertheless, there is no thematic review dedicated to the heteroleptic precursors and their properties, and it seems that no coherent strategy has been adopted for the development of heteroleptic precursors. This review gives a brief description of ALD and presents studies on the deposition of thin films of groups 4 and 5 metal oxides using ALD. A description of the general ALD properties of homoleptic precursors, in addition to a review on the thermal ALD of groups 4 and 5 metal oxides from heteroleptic precursors, is provided. Trends in the properties of heteroleptic ALD precursors, based on the literature review and recent experimental data, are discussed.
Generalized geometry and nonlinear realization of generalized diffeomorphism on D‐brane effective action
Authors: Asakawa T. , Muraki H. , Sasa S. , Watamura S.
Published: July 2014

The characterization of the DBI action of a Dp‐brane using the generalized geometry is discussed. It is shown that the DBI action is invariant under the diffeomorphism and B‐transformation of the generalized tangent bundle of the target space. The symmetry is realized non‐linearly on the fluctuation of the D‐brane.
Systematic review investigating the reporting of comorbidities and medication in randomized controlled trials of people with dementia
Authors: Smith Toby , Maidment Ian , Hebding Jennifer , Madzima Tairo , Cheater Francine , Cross Jane , Poland Fiona , White Jacqueline , Young John , Fox Chris
Published: July 2014

Objectives: dementia is a debilitating condition characterised by global loss of cognitive and intellectual functioning, which reduces social and occupational performance. This population frequently presents with medical co-morbidities such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The CONSORT statement outlines recommended guidance on reporting of participant characteristics in clinical trials. It is, however, unclear how much these are adhered to in trials assessing people with dementia. This paper assesses the reporting of medical co-morbidities and prescribed medications for people with dementia within randomised controlled trial (RCT) reports.

Design: a systematic review of the published literature from the databases AMED, CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Clinical Trial Registry from 1 January 1997 to 9 January 2014 was undertaken in order to identify RCTs detailing baseline medical co-morbidities and prescribed medications . Eligible studies were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) RCT appraisal tool, and descriptive statistical analyses were calculated to determine point prevalence.

Results: nine trials, including 1474 people with dementia, were identified presenting medical co-morbidity data. These indicated neurological disorders (prevalence 91%), vascular disorders (prevalence 91%), cardiac disorders (prevalence 74%) and ischaemic cerebrovascular disease (prevalence 53%) were most frequently seen.

Conclusions: published RCTs poorly report medical co-morbidities and medications for people with dementia. Future trials should include the report of these items to allow interpretation of whether the results are generalisable to frailer older populations.

PROSPERO Registration: CRD42013006735.
Two Barbarians in Paris: Gauguin and Strindberg's Gendered Dialogue on Time and Place
Authors: Jörngården Anna
Published: July 2014

In 1895 Paul Gauguin and August Strindberg exchanged two letters, which Gauguin used as a preface to his exhibition catalogue of that year. This article demonstrates that the letters centre on an opposition between the civilized and the primitive; an opposition that is also reflected in the two artists' different journeys to and from Paris, which can be understood as attempts to travel forward (Strindberg) and backward (Gauguin) in time. The article makes use of the dialogue between the travellers, expanded from the two letters to the larger perspective of their 1890s production and transcultural movements, to open a line of inquiry into the
fin-de-siècle
preoccupation with the clash between the new and the old. It explores how gender and ethnicity are understood in relation to time and place, and how the association between, on the one hand, femininity, the primitive, and the past, and, on the other, masculinity, the civilized, and the future underpins both nostalgic and forward-looking attitudes to time and modernity.
The third law of thermodynamics for Kerr black holes
Authors: Okamoto Isao , Kaburaki Osamu
Published: July 2014

At first the thermodynamic and evolutionary properties of Kerr black holes are clarified using the M–J plane, where M is the hole’s mass and J is its angular momentum. In this plane Schwarzschild black holes with h = 0 are distributed along the M-axis and extreme Kerr holes with h = 1 lie on the line J = M2, where $h \equiv J/4S$ is a non-dimensional parameter and S is the entropy. Taking into account possible accretion processes, we then derive the condition under which the third law of black-hole thermodynamics for Kerr holes is not violated. The condition is given in the form of as $\alpha \ge 1$, where the rate of change of a hole’s state, dh/dM, is proportional to $(1-h)^\alpha$ in the neighbourhood of $h \simeq 1$. If the rate is proportional to the vanishing surface gravity, gH, with which the hole has to accrete matter and angular momentum, α is given by $\alpha= 1+2/C$, where $dh/dM=Cg_\text H=C(1-h^2)/4M$, and C is a proportionality constant. In this case M, J and S diverge to infinity as a power law for $h \to 1$, and therefore no Kerr holes can reach the extreme Kerr state with the absolute zero temperature by accreting finite amounts of mass and angular momentum.
Random complex networks
Authors: Small Michael , Hou Lvlin , Zhang Linjun
Published: July 2014

Exactly what is meant by a ‘complex’ network is not clear; however, what is clear is that it is something other than a random graph. Complex networks arise in a wide range of real social, technological and physical systems. In all cases, the most basic categorization of these graphs is their node degree distribution. Particular groups of complex networks may exhibit additional interesting features, including the so-called small-world effect or being scale-free. There are many algorithms with which one may generate networks with particular degree distributions (perhaps the most famous of which is preferential attachment). In this paper, we address what it means to randomly choose a network from the class of networks with a particular degree distribution, and in doing so we show that the networks one gets from the preferential attachment process are actually highly pathological. Certain properties (including robustness and fragility) which have been attributed to the (scale-free) degree distribution are actually more intimately related to the preferential attachment growth mechanism. We focus here on scale-free networks with power-law degree sequences—but our methods and results are perfectly generic.
PRINCIPAL POLYNOMIAL ANALYSIS
Authors: LAPARRA VALERO , JIMÉNEZ SANDRA , TUIA DEVIS , CAMPS-VALLS GUSTAU , MALO JESUS
Published: July 2014

This paper presents a new framework for manifold learning based on a sequence of principal polynomials that capture the possibly nonlinear nature of the data. The proposed Principal Polynomial Analysis (PPA) generalizes PCA by modeling the directions of maximal variance by means of curves, instead of straight lines. Contrarily to previous approaches, PPA reduces to performing simple univariate regressions, which makes it computationally feasible and robust. Moreover, PPA shows a number of interesting analytical properties. First, PPA is a volume-preserving map, which in turn guarantees the existence of the inverse. Second, such an inverse can be obtained in closed form. Invertibility is an important advantage over other learning methods, because it permits to understand the identified features in the input domain where the data has physical meaning. Moreover, it allows to evaluate the performance of dimensionality reduction in sensible (input-domain) units. Volume preservation also allows an easy computation of information theoretic quantities, such as the reduction in multi-information after the transform. Third, the analytical nature of PPA leads to a clear geometrical interpretation of the manifold: it allows the computation of Frenet–Serret frames (local features) and of generalized curvatures at any point of the space. And fourth, the analytical Jacobian allows the computation of the metric induced by the data, thus generalizing the Mahalanobis distance. These properties are demonstrated theoretically and illustrated experimentally. The performance of PPA is evaluated in dimensionality and redundancy reduction, in both synthetic and real datasets from the UCI repository.
GLOBAL TRADE IMBALANCES: A NETWORK APPROACH
Authors: DUEÑAS MARCO , FAGIOLO GIORGIO
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we study trade imbalances between world countries in the period 1960–2011 using a complex-network approach. We show that trade imbalances in absolute value are characterized by a hierarchical arrangement wherein a few developed economies display high clustering and carry an important amount of global-trade imbalances. In contrast, trade imbalances in relative terms show a more fragmented topology, with less concentrated clustering which is particularly high for developing countries. In addition, we find that traditional null random-network models and the gravity model poorly predict the topology of trade imbalance networks. Our main finding is that the evolution of international trade has caused very heterogeneous imbalances in world economies, which may have important consequences for global instability and development.
An Unusual Case of Clear Cell Chondrosarcoma with Very Late Recurrence and Lung Metastases, 29 Years after Primary Surgery
Authors: Laitinen Minna , Nieminen Jyrki , Pakarinen Toni-Karri
Published: July 2014

Clear cell chondrosarcoma is a rare bone neoplasm with low-grade clinical course and the potential to metastasize to the skeleton and lungs. The aim of this report is to present a case that is extremely rare, but in accordance with the literature where the clear cell chondrosarcoma reportedly has a tendency for late metastases. In our patient the primary surgery was intralesional, since it was mistakenly interpreted as a benign tumour in the early 80s. The local recurrence and lung metastases occurred, however, 29 years after the initial treatment. The local recurrence was resected with wide margins, no additional surgery or oncological treatments were given, and two and half years postoperatively patient is doing well and there is no progression in the disease. In conclusion, it is important to have a long follow-up to the clear cell chondrosarcoma patients even for decades or lifelong, because the malignancy tends to metastasize or recur after an extended period. The course of metastasized disease may be unusually slow, so relatively aggressive treatment in metastasized and recurring cases is justified.
AlgaEcklonia bicyclis,Tribulus terrestris, and Glucosamine Oligosaccharide Improve Erectile Function, Sexual Quality of Life, and Ejaculation Function in Patients with Moderate Mild-Moderate Erectile Dysfunction: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Single-Blinded Study
Authors: Sansalone Salvatore , Leonardi Rosario , Antonini Gabriele , Vitarelli Antonio , Vespasiani Giuseppe , Basic Dragoslav , Morgia Giuseppe , Cimino Sebastiano , Russo Giorgio Ivan
Published: July 2014

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of oral therapy with algaEcklonia bicyclis,Tribulus terrestris, and glucosamine oligosaccharide (Tradamix TX1000) in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) at 3 months of follow-up. From January 2013 to September 2013, 177 patients diagnosed with mild-moderate ED (IIEF-EF < 26) were enrolled in this multicenter, single-blinded, placebo-controlled study and randomized in Group A (Tradamix,n=87) and Group B (placebo,n=90). Penile color Doppler ultrasound measures, IIEF-15 questionnaire, male sexual health questionnaire-ejaculation disorder (MSHQ-EjD), and sexual quality of life (SQoL-M) were collected. We observed significant changes of the IIEF-15 in Group A (mean difference: 11.54;P<0.05) at 3 months versus Group B (P<0.05). PSV (P<0.05), IIEF-intercourse satisfaction (P<0.05), IIEF-orgasmic function (meanP<0.05), IIEF-sexual desire (P<0.05), IIEF-overall satisfaction (P<0.05), MSHQ-EjD (mean difference: 1.21;P<0.05), and SQoL-M (mean difference: 10.2;P<0.05) were significantly changed in Group A versus baseline and Group B. Patients with moderate arterial dysfunction showed significant increase of PSV (P<0.05), IIEF-EF (P<0.05), MSHQ-EjD (P<0.05), and SQoL-M (P<0.05) in Group A. Therapy with Tradamix improves erectile and ejaculation function and sexual quality of life in patients with mild-moderate ED and in particular for those with moderate arterial dysfunction.
A Concentration Phenomenon for p-Laplacian Equation
Authors: Zhong Yansheng
Published: July 2014

It is proved that if the bounded function of coefficientQnin the following equation  -div ⁡{|∇u|p-2∇u}+V(x)|u|p-2u=Qn(x)|u|q-2u,  u(x)=0  as  x∈∂Ω.  u(x)⟶0  as  |x|⟶∞is positive in a region contained in Ω and negative outside the region, the sets{Qn>0}shrink to a pointx0∈Ωasn→∞, and then the sequenceungenerated by the nontrivial solution of the same equation, corresponding toQn, will concentrate atx0with respect toW01,p(Ω)and certainLs(Ω)-norms. In addition, if the sets{Qn>0}shrink to finite points, the corresponding ground states{un}only concentrate at one of these points. These conclusions extend the results proved in the work of Ackermann and Szulkin (2013) for casep=2.
A Three-Dimensional Wireless Indoor Localization System
Authors: Yi Ping , Yu Minjie , Zhou Ziqiao , Xu Wei , Zhang Qingquan , Zhu Ting
Published: July 2014

Indoor localization, an emerging technology in location based service (LBS), is now playing a more and more important role both in commercial and in civilian industry. Global position system (GPS) is the most popular solution in outdoor localization field, and the accuracy is around 10 meter error in positioning. However, with complex obstacles in buildings, problems rise in the “last mile” of localization field, which encourage a momentum of indoor localization. The traditional indoor localization system is either range-based or fingerprinting-based, which requires a lot of time and efforts to do the predeployment. In this paper, we present a 3-dimensional on-demand indoor localization system (3D-ODIL), which can be fingerprint-free and deployed rapidly in a multistorey building. The 3D-ODIL consists of two phases, vertical localization and horizontal localization. On vertical direction, we propose multistorey differential (MSD) algorithm and implement it to fulfill the vertical localization, which can greatly reduce the number of anchors deployed. We use enhanced field division (EFD) algorithm to conduct the horizontal localization. EFD algorithm is a range-free algorithm, the main idea of which is to dynamically divide the field within different signature area and position the target. The accuracy and performance have been validated through our extensive analysis and systematic experiments.
Ionotropic GABA Receptors and Distal Retinal ON and OFF Responses
Authors: Popova E.
Published: July 2014

In the vertebrate retina, visual signals are segregated into parallel ON and OFF pathways, which provide information for light increments and decrements. The segregation is first evident at the level of the ON and OFF bipolar cells in distal retina. The activity of large populations of ON and OFF bipolar cells is reflected in the b- and d-waves of the diffuse electroretinogram (ERG). The role of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), acting through ionotropic GABA receptors in shaping the ON and OFF responses in distal retina, is a matter of debate. This review summarized current knowledge about the types of the GABAergic neurons and ionotropic GABA receptors in the retina as well as the effects of GABA and specific GABAAand GABACreceptor antagonists on the activity of the ON and OFF bipolar cells in both nonmammalian and mammalian retina. Special emphasis is put on the effects on b- and d-waves of the ERG as a useful tool for assessment of the overall function of distal retinal ON and OFF channels. The role of GABAergic system in establishing the ON-OFF asymmetry concerning the time course and absolute and relative sensitivity of the ERG responses under different conditions of light adaptation in amphibian retina is also discussed.
Lead Immobilization and Hydroxamate Ligand Promoted Chloropyromorphite Dissolution
Authors: Adam Nadia K.
Published: July 2014

The immobilization of lead, a major environmental contaminant, through phosphate amendments to form the sparingly soluble lead phosphate mineral chloropyromorphite [Pb5(PO4)3] (CPY) is an effective in situ strategy for soil remediation. An important question is the effect of microbial processes on this remediation. Here, we investigate the role of the microbial siderophore ligand desferrioxamine-D1 (DFO-D1) and its analog acetohydroxamic acid (aHA) in CPY lability using pH-dependent batch dissolution kinetics and model calculations. Both (0.01) M aHA and (0.00024) M DFO-D1 are similarly effective and enhance lead release from CPY by more than two orders of magnitude at pH > 6 compared to in the absence of ligands. This is consistent with model calculations of pH-dependent (aqueous) complexation of lead with hydroxamate ligands. More importantly, pH-dependent ligand sorption is predictive of its ligand promoted dissolution behavior. Our results suggest that organic ligands can significantly increase CPY lability at alkaline pHs in soils and sediments and that addition of P amendments to immobilize Pb as CPY may only be successful at acid pHs.
Robust H2/H∞ Control for the Electrohydraulic Steering System of a Four‐Wheel Vehicle
Authors: Ye Min , Wang Quan , Jiao Shengjie
Published: July 2014

To shorten the steer diameter and to improve the maneuverability flexibility of a construction vehicle, four wheels’ steering system is presented. This steering system consists of mechanical‐electrical‐hydraulic assemblies. Its diagram and principle are depicted in detail. Then the mathematical models are derived step by step, including the whole vehicle model and the hydraulic route model. Considering the nonlinear and time‐varying uncertainty of the steering system, robust H2/H∞ controller is put forward to guarantee both the system performance and the robust stability. The H∞ norm of the sensitive function from the parameter perturbation of the hydraulic system to the yaw velocity of the vehicle is taken as the evaluating index of the robustness and the H2 norm of the transfer function from the external disturbance to the steering angle of the wheel as the index of linear quadratic Gaussian. The experimental results showed that the proposed scheme was superior to classical PID controller and can guarantee both the control performance and the robustness of the steering system.
Neuropsychology in Multidisciplinary Stroke Care: Clinical Feasibility of the NINDS-CSN Vascular Cognitive Impairment Harmonization Standards
Authors: Han Dong Y. , Anderson Amelia J. , Jones Jana E. , Hermann Bruce P. , Sattin Justin A.
Published: July 2014

As a significant number of stroke victims exhibit cognitive impairment, neuropsychological assessments can enhance poststroke management by identifying pertinent cognitive sequelae and providing salient care recommendations. However, due to operational differences between traditional neuropsychology and stroke services, neuropsychological assessments often remain underutilized in stroke care. We developed a novel care model that incorporated neuropsychological testing into a comprehensive stroke program using the modified vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) half-hour assessment protocol proposed by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke—Canadian Stroke Network (NINDS-CSN). The test batteries were administered during the patients’ acute admissions and then again upon follow-up in the multidisciplinary stroke clinic. Patient and provider satisfaction was then evaluated. Surveys revealed high provider satisfaction with improved clinic efficacy, improved data turnaround time, and with value neuropsychology services added to the comprehensive stroke program. Results from the 18-item industry standard Press-Ganey surveys showed all scores above 4.4/5.0 for patient satisfaction. This clinic garnered high provider and patient satisfaction after the first year. The (modified) NINDS-CSN VCI assessment protocol demonstrated clinical feasibility, suggestive of an efficient method of providing focused neuropsychological services in a clinical setting that otherwise prohibits traditional, comprehensive cognitive assessments.
Recent Advances in Polyamine Metabolism and Abiotic Stress Tolerance
Authors: Rangan Parimalan , Subramani Rajkumar , Kumar Rajesh , Singh Amit Kumar , Singh Rakesh
Published: July 2014

Global warming is an alarming problem in agriculture and its effect on yield loss has been estimated to be five per cent for every degree centigrade rise in temperature. Plants exhibit multiple mechanisms like optimizing signaling pathway, involvement of secondary messengers, production of biomolecules specifically in response to stress, modulation of various metabolic networks in accordance with stress, and so forth, in order to overcome abiotic stress factors. Many structural genes and networks of pathway were identified and reported in plant systems for abiotic stress tolerance. One such crucial metabolic pathway that is involved in normal physiological function and also gets modulated during stress to impart tolerance is polyamine metabolic pathway. Besides the role of structural genes, it is also important to know the mechanism by which these structural genes are regulated during stress. Present review highlights polyamine biosynthesis, catabolism, and its role in abiotic stress tolerance with special reference to plant systems. Additionally, a system based approach is discussed as a potential strategy to dissect the existing variation in crop species in unraveling the interacting regulatory components/genetic determinants related to PAs mediated abiotic stress tolerance.
Tracheal Intubation through the I-gel for Emergency Cesarean Section in a Patient with Multidrug Hypersensitivity: A New Technique
Authors: Samala Kartika Balaji , Uchiyama Yuri , Tokinaga Yasuyuki , Niiyama Yukitoshi , Iwasaki Soshi , Yamakage Michiaki
Published: July 2014

31-year-old female with hypersensitivity to local anesthetics and neuromuscular blocking agents presented for emergency Cesarean section. We successfully performed I-gel-assisted tracheal intubation without using neuromuscular blockers. We believe this method would be helpful in selected situations.
Partial and Total Descemet’s Detachments in a Patient with Severe Terrien’s Marginal Degeneration and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Vejdani Amir Hossein , Khakshoor Hamid , McCaughey Michael V. , Moshirfar Majid
Published: July 2014

A 16-year-old female with juvenile idiopathic arthritis presented with a one-month history of decreasing vision and increasing corneal edema in her left eye. Slit-lamp examination, keratometric measurements, and OCT evaluation led to a diagnosis of Terrien’s marginal degeneration in both eyes along with a complete detachment of Descemet’s membrane in the left eye and partial detachment in the right eye. She was treated with an intracameral injection of air and then topical betamethasone and chloramphenicol which lead to the resolution of symptoms. We further examine the pathophysiology of this disease based on current literature.
A Rare Tumor of Nasal Cavity: Glomangiopericytoma
Authors: Verim Aysegul , Kalaycik Ertugay Cigdem , Karaca Cigdem Tepe , Gunes Pembegul , Sheidaei Shahrouz , Oysu Cagatay
Published: July 2014

Glomangiopericytoma is a rare vascular neoplasm characterized by a pattern of prominent perivascular growth. A 72-year-old woman was admitted to our clinic complaining of nasal obstruction, frequent epistaxis, and facial pain. A reddish tumor filling the left nasal cavity was observed on endoscopy and treated with endoscopic excision. Microscopically, closely packed cells interspersed with numerous thin-walled, branching staghorn vessels were seen. Glomangiopericytoma is categorized as a borderline low malignancy tumor by WHO classification. Long-term follow-up with systemic examination is necessary due to high risk of recurrence.
Prophylactic Appendectomy during Laparoscopic Surgery for Other Conditions
Authors: Occhionorelli S. , Stano R. , Targa S. , Maccatrozzo S. , Cappellari L. , Vasquez G.
Published: July 2014

Acute appendicitis remains the most common surgical emergency. Laparoscopy has gained increasing favor as a method of both investigating right iliac fossa pain and treating the finding of appendicitis. A question arises: what to do with an apparent healthy appendix discovered during laparoscopic surgery for other pathology. We present a case of unilateral hydroureteronephrosis complicated with rupture of the renal pelvis, due to gangrenous appendicitis with abscess of the right iliopsoas muscle and periappendicular inflammation in a 67-year-old woman, who underwent laparoscopic right annessiectomy for right ovarian cyst few years earlier, in which a healthy appendix was left inside. There is a lack of consensus in the literature about what to do with a normal appendix. The main argument for removing an apparently normal appendix is that endoluminal appendicitis may not be recognized during surgery, leading to concern that an abnormal appendix is left in place. Because of a lack of evidence from randomized trials, it remains unclear whether the benefits of routine elective coincidental appendectomy outweigh the costs and risks of morbidity associated with this prophylactic procedure. Nevertheless, it appears, from limited data, that women aged 35 years and under benefit most from elective coincidental appendectomy.
Gender and Family Disparities in Suicide Attempt and Role of Socioeconomic, School, and Health-Related Difficulties in Early Adolescence
Authors: Chau Kénora , Kabuth Bernard , Chau Nearkasen
Published: July 2014

Suicide attempt (SA) is common in early adolescence and the risk may differ between boys and girls in nonintact families partly because of socioeconomic, school, and health-related difficulties. This study explored the gender and family disparities and the role of these covariates. Questionnaires were completed by 1,559 middle-school adolescents from north-eastern France including sex, age, socioeconomic factors (family structure, nationality, parents’ education, father’s occupation, family income, and social support), grade repetition, depressive symptoms, sustained violence, sexual abuse, unhealthy behaviors (tobacco/alcohol/cannabis/hard drug use), SA, and their first occurrence over adolescent’s life course. Data were analyzed using Cox regression models. SA affected 12.5% of girls and 7.2% of boys (P<0.001). The girls living with parents divorced/separated, in reconstructed families, and with single parents had a 3-fold higher SA risk than those living in intact families. Over 63% of the risk was explained by socioeconomic, school, and health-related difficulties. No family disparities were observed among boys. Girls had a 1.74-time higher SA risk than boys, and 45% of the risk was explained by socioeconomic, school, and mental difficulties and violence. SA prevention should be performed in early adolescence and consider gender and family differences and the role of socioeconomic, school, and health-related difficulties.
Higgs Field in Universe: Long-Term Oscillation and Deceleration/Acceleration Phases
Authors: Dzhunushaliev Vladimir
Published: July 2014

It is shown that the Einstein gravity and Higgs scalar field have (a) a long-term oscillation phase; (b) cosmological regular solutions with deceleration/acceleration phases. The first has a preceding contracting and subsequent expanding phases and between them there exists an oscillating phase with arbitrary time duration. The behavior of the second solution near to a flex point is in detail considered.
Management of Poor Responders in IVF: Is There Anything New?
Authors: Ubaldi Filippo , Vaiarelli Alberto , D’Anna Rosario , Rienzi Laura
Published: July 2014

Despite the fact that in the last two decades an enormous number of papers on the topic of poor ovarian response have been published in the literature, so far it has been impossible to identify any efficient treatment to improve the ovarian response and the clinical outcome of this group of patients. The incidence of poor ovarian responders among infertile women has been estimated at 9–24% but according to recent reviews, it seems to have slightly increased. The limitation in quantifying the incidence of these patients among the infertile population is due to the difficulty of a clear definition in literature. A recent paper by the Bologna ESHRE working group on poor ovarian response has been the first real attempt to find a common definition. Current literature proposes new risk factors which could be the cause of a reduction in ovarian reserve, which also includes genetic factors. This represents the first necessary step towards finding applicable solutions for these patients. To date, there is a substantial lack of literature that identifies an ideal protocol for these patients. The use of the “Bologna criteria” and the introduction of long acting gonadotropin in clinical practice have given rise to new promising stimulation protocols for this group of patients.
The Study of Fetal Rat Model of Intra-Amniotic Isoproterenol Injection Induced Heart Dysfunction and Phenotypic Switch of Contractile Proteins
Authors: Li Yifei , Fang Jie , Hua Yimin , Wang Chuan , Mu Dezhi , Zhou Kaiyu
Published: July 2014

To establish a reliable isoproterenol induced heart dysfunction fetal rat model and understand the switches of contractile proteins, 45 pregnant rats were divided into 15 mg/kg-once, 15 mg/kg-twice, sham-operated once, sham-operated twice, and control groups. And 18 adult rats were divided into isoproterenol-treated and control groups. H&E staining, Masson staining, and transmission electron microscope were performed. Apoptotic rate assessed by TUNEL analysis and expressions of ANP, BNP, MMP-2, and CTGF of hearts were measured. Intra-amniotic injections of isoproterenol were supplied on E14.5 and E15.5 for fetuses and 7-day continuous intraperitoneal injections were performed for adults. Then echocardiography was performed with M-mode view assessment on E18.5 and 6 weeks later, respectively. Isoproterenol twice treated fetuses exhibited significant changes in histological evaluation, and mitochondrial damages were significantly severe with increased apoptotic rate. ANP and BNP increased and that of MMP-2 increased in isoproterenol twice treated group compared to control group, without CTGF. The isoforms transition of troponin I and myosin heavy chain of fetal heart dysfunction were opposite to adult procedure. The administration of intra-amniotic isoproterenol to fetal rats could induce heart dysfunction and the regulation of contractile proteins of fetuses was different from adult procedure.
Quantitative Analysis of Adulterations in Oat Flour by FT-NIR Spectroscopy, Incomplete Unbalanced Randomized Block Design, and Partial Least Squares
Authors: Wang Ning , Zhang Xingxiang , Yu Zhuo , Li Guodong , Zhou Bin
Published: July 2014

This paper developed a rapid and nondestructive method for quantitative analysis of a cheaper adulterant (wheat flour) in oat flour by NIR spectroscopy and chemometrics. Reflectance FT-NIR spectra in the range of 4000 to 12000 cm−1of 300 oat flour objects adulterated with wheat flour were measured. The doping levels of wheat flour ranged from 5% to 50% (w/w). To ensure the generalization performance of the method, both the oat and the wheat flour samples were collected from different producing areas and an incomplete unbalanced randomized block (IURB) design was performed to include the significant variations that may be encountered in future samples. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) was used to develop calibration models for predicting the levels of wheat flour. Different preprocessing methods including smoothing, taking second-order derivative (D2), and standard normal variate (SNV) transformation were investigated to improve the model accuracy of PLS. The root mean squared error of Monte Carlo cross-validation (RMSEMCCV) and root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) were 1.921 and 1.975 (%, w/w) by D2-PLS, respectively. The results indicate that NIR and chemometrics can provide a rapid method for quantitative analysis of wheat flour in oat flour.
Rho GTPase-Activating Protein 35 rs1052667 Polymorphism and Osteosarcoma Risk and Prognosis
Authors: Zhao Jinmin , Xu Hua , He Maolin , Wang Zhe , Wu Yang
Published: July 2014

The Rho GTPase-activating protein 35 (ARHGAP35), an important Rho family GTPase-activating protein, may be associated with tumorigenesis of some tumors. Here, we investigated the relationship between an important polymorphic variant at 3′-UTR of this gene (rs1052667) and osteosarcoma risk and prognosis. This hospital-based case-control study, including 247 osteosarcoma patients and 428 age-, sex-, and race-matched healthy controls, was conducted in Guangxi population. Genotypes were tested using TaqMan PCR technique. We found a significant difference in the frequency of rs1052667 genotypes between cases and controls. Compared with the homozygote of rs1052667 C alleles (rs1052667-CC), the genotypes with rs1052667 T alleles (namely, rs1052667-CT or -TT) increased osteosarcoma risk (odds ratios: 2.41 and 7.35, resp.). Moreover, rs1052667 polymorphism was correlated with such pathological features of osteosarcoma as tumor size, tumor grade, and tumor metastasis. Additionally, this polymorphism also modified the overall survival and recurrence-free survival of osteosarcoma cases. Like tumor grade, ARHGAP35 rs1052667 polymorphism was an independent prognostic factor influencing the survival of osteosarcoma. These results suggest that ARHGAP35 rs1052667 polymorphism may be associated with osteosarcoma risk and prognosis.
Consistent Extension of Quasidilaton Massive Gravity
Authors: Klusoň Josef
Published: July 2014

This paper is devoted to the Hamiltonian analysis of extension of the quasidilaton massive gravity as was proposed recently in
[arXiv:1306.5502]. We show that, for given formulation of the theory, the additional primary constraint that is responsible for the elimination of the Boulware-Deser ghost is missing. We compare this situation with the quasidilaton massive gravity. Finally, we propose the ghost-free extension of quasidilaton massive gravity.
Evaluation of Osseointegration Ability of Porous Polyethylene Implant (Medpor) Treated with Chitosan
Authors: Kim Kwang , Kim Byung-Hoon , Jung Seunggon , Park Hong-Ju , Ohk Seung-Ho , Oh Hee-Kyun , Kook Min-Suk
Published: July 2014

Purpose. We suggest a successful and simple Medpor treated way with chitosan and evaluate more improved osseointegration ability of it than the orignal. Materials and Methods. Medpor was punched into circular shape and dipped into the chitosan gel solution. The Medpor plates soaked with chitosan were identified by the SEM images. We evaluated the growth rate of MC3T3‐E1 cell using Von Kossa staining and MTT assay as in vitro experiment. And we implanted both Medpor plates into skull of domestic rabbits for in vivo experiment. We evaluated the osseointegration result with an optical microscope in postoperative 3 weeks and 6 weeks histologically. Results. The in vitro MC3T3‐E1 cell growth rate on Medpor soaking with chitosan was faster than the original one in both Von Kossa staining and MTT assay. In animal test, Medpor soaking with chitosan shows more pronounced new bone than original Medpor too. Conclusion. Medpor soaking with chitosan was a successful modification. It is believed that the upgraded osseointegration ability of Medpor soaking with chitosan gives many benefits to clinicians using a Medpor implant for oral and maxillofacial reconstruction surgery.
A D‐N Alternating Algorithm for Solving 3D Exterior Helmholtz Problems
Authors: Chen Qing , Liu Baoqing , Du Qikui
Published: July 2014

The nonoverlapping domain decomposition method, which is based on the natural boundary reduction, is applied to solve the exterior Helmholtz problem over a three‐dimensional domain. The basic idea is to introduce a spherical artificial boundary; the original unbounded domain is changed into a bounded subdomain and a typical unbounded region; then, a Dirichlet‐Nuemann (D‐N) alternating method is presented; the finite element method and natural boundary element methods are alternately applied to solve the problems in the bounded subdomain and the typical unbounded subdomain. The convergence of the D‐N alternating algorithm and its discretization are studied. Some numerical experiments are presented to show the performance of this method.
Event-Specific Risk Factors Predicting Episodes of Unprotected Anal Intercourse with Male Nonregular Partners among Men Who Have Sex with Men Using Case-Crossover Study Design
Authors: Li Jinghua , Lau Joseph T. F. , Gu Jing , Hao Chun , Lai Coco H. Y.
Published: July 2014

This study investigated event-specific factors that determine episodes of unprotected and protected anal intercourse (UAI and PAI) among 215 men who have sex with men (MSM), who used condoms inconsistently with nonregular partners (NRP) in the last six months, in Hong Kong. A case-crossover study design was used. Lower likelihood of episodes involving UAI with NRP was associated with (1) five partner attributes (NRP were <35 years old, at least three previous anal sex experiences with the NRP, perception that participant and the NRP had asymmetrical sexual experience, perception that the NRP was feminine, and liking toward the NRP; OR = 0.16–0.52), (2) six situational variables (the participant having had UAI with another man in the last week, having discussed condom use, perception that the NRP liked to use condom, partner’s suggestion to have PAI, participant’s suggestion to have PAI, and participant’s plan to use condoms; OR = 0.11–0.39), and (3) four environmental/setting variables (condoms already placed at the venue, display of condom use promotion materials, participant’s possession of a condom, and the NRP possessed a condom; OR = 0.27–0.45). HIV prevention targeting MSM should focus on event-specific protective factors, which may be different from those obtained from studies distinguishing condom users versus nonusers.
Automated Synthesis of18F-Fluoropropoxytryptophan for Amino Acid Transporter System Imaging
Authors: Shih I-Hong , Duan Xu-Dong , Kong Fan-Lin , Williams Michael D. , Yang Kevin , Zhang Yin-Han , Yang David J.
Published: July 2014

Objective. This study was to develop a cGMP grade of [18F]fluoropropoxytryptophan (18F-FTP) to assess tryptophan transporters using an automated synthesizer.Methods. Tosylpropoxytryptophan (Ts-TP) was reacted with K18F/kryptofix complex. After column purification, solvent evaporation, and hydrolysis, the identity and purity of the product were validated by radio-TLC (1M-ammonium acetate : methanol = 4 : 1) and HPLC (C-18 column, methanol : water = 7 : 3) analyses.In vitrocellular uptake of18F-FTP and18F-FDG was performed in human prostate cancer cells. PET imaging studies were performed with18F-FTP and18F-FDG in prostate and small cell lung tumor-bearing mice (3.7 MBq/mouse, iv).Results. Radio-TLC and HPLC analyses of18F-FTP showed that the Rf and Rt values were 0.9 and 9 min, respectively. Radiochemical purity was >99%. The radiochemical yield was 37.7% (EOS 90 min, decay corrected). Cellular uptake of18F-FTP and18F-FDG showed enhanced uptake as a function of incubation time. PET imaging studies showed that18F-FTP had less tumor uptake than18F-FDG in prostate cancer model. However,18F-FTP had more uptake than18F-FDG in small cell lung cancer model.Conclusion.18F-FTP could be synthesized with high radiochemical yield. Assessment of upregulated transporters activity by18F-FTP may provide potential applications in differential diagnosis and prediction of early treatment response.
HPLC-Fingerprints and Antioxidant Constituents ofPhyla nodiflora
Authors: Lin Fang-Ju , Yen Feng-Lin , Chen Pei-Chun , Wang Moo-Chin , Lin Chun-Nan , Lee Chiang-Wen , Ko Horng-Huey
Published: July 2014

Phyla nodiflorais a creeping perennial herb, widely distributed in the most tropical and subtropical regions. It has been used as a folk medicine, herbal beverage, or folk cosmetic. For these usages, the development of a chemical quality control method of this plant is necessary. In the present study, ten compounds, namely, 3,7,4′,5′-tetrahydroxy-3′-methoxyflavone (1), nodifloretin (2), 4′-hydroxywogonin (3), onopordin (4), cirsiliol (5), 5,7,8,4′-tetrahydroxy-3′-methoxyflavone (6), eupafolin (7), hispidulin (8), larycitrin (9), andβ-sitosterol were isolated from the methanolic extract of the aerial part ofP. nodiflora(PNM) and their structures were identified by 1D-NMR comparing their spectra with the literature. The antioxidant activities of these compounds were evaluated by free radical scavenging activity and tyrosinase inhibitory effect in cell-free systems. Compounds4,5, and7showed strong antioxidant activity. To control the quality ofP. nodiflora, a simple and reliable method of high-performance liquid chromatography combined with ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV) was established for both the fingerprint analysis and the quantitative determination of two selected active compounds, onopordin (4) and eupafolin (7). Statistical analysis of the obtained data demonstrated that our method achieved the desired linearity, precision, and accuracy. The results indicated that the developed method can be used as a quality evaluation method for PNM.