bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A system for the determination of planar force vectors from spontaneously active chicken embryos
Authors: Sharp Andrew A. , Cain Blake W. , Pakiraih Joanna , Williams James L.
Published: August 2014

Generally, a combination of kinematic, electromyographic (EMG), and force measurements are used to understand how an organism generates and controls movement. The chicken embryo has been a very useful model system for understanding the early stages of embryonic motility in vertebrates. Unfortunately, the size and delicate nature of embryos makes studies of motility during embryogenesis very challenging. Both kinematic and EMG recordings have been achieved in embryonic chickens, but two-dimensional force vector recordings have not. Here, we describe a dual-axis system for measuring force generated by the leg of embryonic chickens. The system employs two strain gauges to measure planar forces oriented with the plane of motion of the leg. This system responds to forces according to the principles of Pythagorean geometry, which allows a simple computational program to determine the force vector (magnitude and direction) generated during spontaneous motor activity. The system is able to determine force vectors for forces >0.5 mN accurately and allows for simultaneous kinematic and EMG recordings. This sensitivity is sufficient for force vector measurements encompassing most embryonic leg movements in midstage chicken embryos allowing for a more complete understanding of embryonic motility. Variations on this system are discussed to enable nonideal or alternative sensor arrangements and to allow for translation of this approach to other delicate model systems.
Metagenomics: An Application Based Perspective
Authors: Bashir Yasir , Pradeep Singh Salam , Kumar Konwar Bolin
Published: August 2014

Metagenomics deals with the isolation of genetic material directly recovered from environmental samples. Metagenomics as an approach has emerged over the past two decades to elucidate a host of microbial communities inhabiting a specific niche with the goal of understanding their genetic diversity, population structure, and ecological role played by them. A number of new and novel molecules with significant functionalities and applications have been identified through this approach. In fact, many investigators are engaged in this field to unlock the untapped genetic resources with funding from governments sector. The sustainable economic future of modern industrialized societies requires the development of novel molecules, enzymes, processes, products, and applications. Metagenomics can also be applied to solve practical challenges in the field of medicine, agriculture, sustainability, and ecology. Metagenomics promises to provide new molecules and novel enzymes with diverse functions and enhanced features compared to the enzymes from the culturable microorganisms. Besides the application of metagenomics for unlocking novel biocatalysts from nature, it also has found applications in fields as diverse as bioremediation, personalized medicine, xenobiotic metabolism, and so forth.
Concomitant Deep Venous Thrombosis, Femoral Artery Thrombosis, and Pulmonary Embolism after Air Travel
Authors: Abunnaja Salim , Clyde Marshall , Cuviello Andrea , Brenes Robert A. , Tripodi Giuseppe
Published: August 2014

The association between air travel and deep venous thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism “economy-class syndrome” is well described. However, this syndrome does not describe any association between long duration travel and arterial thrombosis or coexistence of venous and arterial thrombosis. We present a case of concomitant deep venous thrombosis, acute femoral artery thrombosis, and bilateral pulmonary embolisms in a patient following commercial air travel. Echocardiogram did not reveal an intracardiac shunt that may have contributed to the acute arterial occlusion from a paradoxical embolus. To our knowledge, this is the first report in the literature that associates air traveling with both arterial and venous thrombosis.
Broadband Adaptive RCS Computation through Characteristic Basis Function Method
Authors: Wang Guohua , Sun Yufa
Published: August 2014

A broadband radar cross section (RCS) calculation approach is proposed based on the characteristic basis function method (CBFM). In the proposed approach, the desired arbitrary frequency band is adaptively divided into multiple subband in consideration of the characteristic basis functions (CBFs) number, which can reduce the universal characteristic basis functions (UCBFs) numbers after singular value decomposition (SVD) procedure at lower subfrequency band. Then, the desired RCS data can be obtained by splicing the RCS data in each subfrequency band. Numerical results demonstrate that the proposed method achieve a high accuracy and efficiency over a wide frequency range.
Imaging of Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Its Complications
Authors: Poh Feng , Wong Siew Kune
Published: August 2014

We present a 56-year-old man with known diabetes mellitus and a 10-year history of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and highlight, through MR imaging findings, the relentless natural progression of the disease, characterized by recurrent exacerbations of abscesses and fistulae and complications of perianal fistulae and sacral osteomyelitis. We also demonstrate the appearance of this condition on PET-CT with F-18 FDG, which was performed for staging after postexcision tissue specimen revealed well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. The association of arthritis and possible dactylitis was also manifested in our patient. Discussion of HS in the radiology literature is limited and, to our knowledge, there has been no case report describing these imaging findings in the same patient.
Using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA to Assess Genetic Diversity and Structure of NaturalCalophyllum brasiliense(Clusiaceae) Populations in Riparian Forests
Authors: Mendonça Evânia Galvão , de Souza Anderson Marcos , Vieira Fábio de Almeida , Estopa Regiane Abjaud , Reis Cristiane Aparecida Fioravante , Carvalho Dulcinéia de
Published: August 2014

The objective of this study was to assess the genetic variability in two natural populations ofCalophyllum brasilienselocated along two different rivers in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, using RAPD molecular markers. Eighty-two polymorphic fragments were amplified using 27 primers. The values obtained for Shannon index (I) were 0.513 and 0.530 for the populations located on the margins of the Rio Grande and Rio das Mortes, respectively, demonstrating the high genetic diversity in the studied populations. Nei’s genetic diversity (He) was 0.341 for the Rio Grande population and 0.357 for the Rio das Mortes population. These results were not significantly different between populations and suggest a large proportion of heterozygote individuals within both populations. AMOVA showed that 70.42% of the genetic variability is found within populations and 29.58% is found among populations (ФST=0.2958). The analysis of kinship coefficients detected the existence of family structures in both populations. Average kinship coefficients between neighboring individuals were 0.053 (P<0.001) in Rio das Mortes and 0.040 (P<0.001) in Rio Grande. This could be due to restricted pollen and seed dispersal and the history of anthropogenic disturbance in the area. These factors are likely to contribute to the relatedness observed among these genotypes.
Environmentally Benign Neem Biodiesel Synthesis Using Nano-Zn-Mg-Al Hydrotalcite as Solid Base Catalysts
Authors: Chelladurai Karthikeyan , Rajamanickam Manivannan
Published: August 2014

Hydrotalcite, also known as aluminum-magnesium layered double hydroxide (LDH) or anionic clay, is a synthetic compound that was broadly investigated in the past decade due to its many potential applications. In this work, we present an environmentally benign process for the transesterification (methanolysis) of neem oil to fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) using Zn-Mg-Al hydrotalcites as solid base catalysts in a heterogeneous manner. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, FT-IR, TPD-CO2, and the BET surface area analysis. It is well-known that the catalytic performance of hydrotalcite is dramatically increased through the incorporation of Zn into the surface of Mg-Al hydrotalcite material. The optimized parameters, 10 : 1 methanol/oil molar ratio with 7.5 g catalysts reacted under stirring speed 450 rpm at 65°C for 4 h reaction, gave a maximum ester conversion of 90.5% for the sample with Zn-Mg-Al ratio of 3 : 3 : 1.
Two Measures for Enhancing Data Association Performance in SLAM
Authors: Zhou Wu , Yin Xiaohong , Cao Zhenxin , Shao Jinjun
Published: August 2014

Data association is one of the key problems in the SLAM community. Several data association failures may cause the SLAM results to be divergent. Data association performance in SLAM is affected by both data association methods and sensor information. Two measures of handling sensor information are introduced herein to enhance data association performance in SLAM. For the first measure, truncating strategy of limited features, instead of all matched features, is used for observation update. These features are selected according to an information variable. This truncating strategy is used to lower the effect of false matched features. For the other measure, a special rejecting mechanism is designed to reject suspected observations. When the predicted robot pose is obviously different from the updated robot pose, all observed sensor information at this moment is discarded. The rejecting mechanism aims at eliminating accidental sensor information. Experimental results indicate that the introduced measures perform well in improving the stability of data association in SLAM. These measures are of extraordinary value for real SLAM applications.
Outcome Measures for Dementia in the Advanced Stage and at the End of Life
Authors: Volicer Ladislav , van der Steen Jenny T.
Published: August 2014

Increasing life span and lack of medication for prevention or treatment of progressive dementias will significantly increase the number of individuals with advanced dementia worldwide. Providing optimal care for them will stretch health care resources and will require evaluation of different treatment strategies. This paper is presenting measures that may be used in this patient population. Evaluation of global goals of palliative care may include measuring quality of life by QUALID scale, comfort by DS-DAT scale, and engagement by MPES scale. Symptom control may be achieved by measuring pain by PAINAD or PACSLAC scales, by evaluating behavioral symptoms and their management (agitation by SOAPD scale, apathy by AES scale and rejection of care by RTC-DAT scale), and by monitoring patients for dyspnea using RDOS scale. Outcomes of palliative care at the end of life may be evaluated by EOLD-CAD scale and by determining family satisfaction with care (EOLD-SWC). Items included in these scales, psychometric properties, and research use of these scales are described. It is hoped that information in this paper will stimulate research interest in this important area.
Rapidly Progressive Atrioventricular Block in a Patient with Sarcoidosis
Authors: Jafar Nagham Saeed , Al Shamkhani Warkaa , Thottuvelil Narayanan Sunil Roy , Rajappan Anil Kumar
Published: August 2014

Cardiac sarcoidosis is a major cause of death in patients with systemic sarcoidosis. Cardiac manifestations are seen in 2.3% of the patients. Atrioventricular (AV) block is one of the common manifestations of cardiac sarcoidosis. Other presentations of cardiac involvement include congestive heart failure, ventricular arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. The presence of AV block in young patients should raise the suspicion of sarcoidosis. AV block may be the only manifestation and patients may not have clinical evidence of pulmonary involvement. Here we describe a young male presented with exercise induced AV block rapidly progressing to complete heart block with recurrent syncope needing urgent pacemaker implantation. Factors that suggested an infiltrative process included his young age, rapidly progressive conduction abnormalities in the ECG in the absence of coronary disease, and previous history of cutaneous sarcoidosis.
Lorentz Violation of the Photon Sector in Field Theory Models
Authors: Zhou Lingli , Ma Bo-Qiang
Published: August 2014

We compare the Lorentz violation terms of the pure photon sector between two field theory models, namely, the minimal standard model extension (SME) and the standard model supplement (SMS). From the requirement of the identity of the intersection for the two models, we find that the free photon sector of the SMS can be a subset of the photon sector of the minimal SME. We not only obtain some relations between the SME parameters but also get some constraints on the SMS parameters from the SME parameters. The CPT-odd coefficients(kAF)αof the SME are predicted to be zero. There are 15 degrees of freedom in the Lorentz violation matrixΔαβof free photons of the SMS related with the same number of degrees of freedom in the tensor coefficients(kF)αβμν, which are independent from each other in the minimal SME but are interrelated in the intersection of the SMS and the minimal SME. With the related degrees of freedom, we obtain the conservative constraints(2σ)on the elements of the photon Lorentz violation matrix. The detailed structure of the photon Lorentz violation matrix suggests some applications to the Lorentz violation experiments for photons.
Can SGRs/AXPs Originate from Neutron Star Binaries?
Authors: Wang Joan Jing , Chang Hsiang-Kuang
Published: August 2014

Soft gamma repeaters (SGRs) and anomalous X-ray pulsars (AXPs) are two groups of enigmatic objects, which have been extensively investigated in past few decades. Based on the ample information about their timing behaviors, spectra, and variability properties, it was proposed that SGRs/AXPs are isolated neutron stars (NSs) with extremely strong magnetic fields, the so-called magnetars. Nonetheless, some alternative models are probably equally convincing such as those proposing that they are accreting NSs with a fall-back disk or rotation-powered magnetized and massive white dwarfs. The nature and nurture of SGRs/AXPs remain controversial. In this paper, we propose that SGRs/AXPs can, alternatively, originate from normal NSs in binary systems, which resorts to the reexplosion of normal NS induced by instant contraction of the massive star envelope in a Thorne-Żytkow object (TZO). The spin-period clustering is due to either the brake of a slowly rotating envelope or the frictional drag during the common-envelope phase.
Predictors of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Commercial Minibus Drivers in Accra Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Abledu J. K. , Offei E. B. , Abledu G. K.
Published: August 2014

Background. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence and predictors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among a sample of commercial minibus drivers in the Accra Metropolis of Ghana. Methods. The participating drivers (n=148) were recruited from various lorry terminals and assessed by using a semistructured questionnaire that included the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Results. Of the 148 drivers, 116 (78.4%) reported having WMSDs during the previous 12 months. The prevalence of the various WMSD domains was low back pain (58.8%), neck pain (25%), upper back pain (22.3%), shoulder pain (18.2%), knee pain (14.9%), ankle pain (9.5%), wrist pain (7.4%), elbow pain (4.7%), and hip/thigh pain (2.7%). Multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for possible confounders showed that less physical activity (OR = 4.9; 95% CI = 1.5–16.5; P=0.010), driving more than 12 hours per day (OR = 2.9; 95% CI = 1.1–7.8; P=0.037), and driving at least 5 days per week (OR = 3.7; 95% CI = 1.4–9.4; P=0.007) were significantly associated with WMSDs among this cohort of drivers. Conclusion. These modifiable factors may be targets for preventive strategies to reduce the incidence of WMSDs among occupational minibus drivers in Ghana.
Combining Wind and Pumped Hydro Energy Storage for Renewable Energy Generation in Ireland
Authors: Coburn Alice , Walsh Eilín , Solan Patrick J. , McDonnell Kevin P.
Published: August 2014

Ireland has one of the highest wind energy potentials in Europe. The intermittent nature of wind makes this renewable resource impractical as a sole source of energy. Combining wind energy with pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) can overcome this intermittency, consuming energy during low-demand periods and supplying energy for periods of high demand. Currently Ireland has a number of hydroelectric power plants and wind farms of various scales in operation. A feasibility study was conducted to investigate the potential of securing a reliable source of renewable energy by increasing the penetration of hydroelectric power by means of combined wind-PHES developments. The greatest wind potential is experienced along the western coast of Ireland and a number of sites were identified here which satisfied a minimum mean wind speed criterion of 10.5 ms−1. Each site was then further evaluated according to topographical requirements for PHES. All but two of the identified sites are immediately unsuitable due to the presence of areas protected under European legislation; this highlights the nonenergy related obstacles in the path of renewable energy generation in Ireland and suggests that a compromise should be researched which could facilitate both renewable energy generation and species and habitat protection in Europe.
Effect of Gender on Coagulation Functions: A Study in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients Treated with Bevacizumab, Irinotecan, 5-Fluorouracil, and Leucovorin
Authors: Bilir Cemil , Engin Hüseyin , Temi Yasemin Bakkal
Published: August 2014

Introduction.We designed this study to evaluate how coagulation parameters are changed in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients treated with bevacizumab, irinotecan, 5-fluorouracil, and leucovorin (FOLFIRI).Methods.A total of 48 mCRC patients who initially received bevacizumab with FOLFIRI were eligible for this study. Thirty-four patients were analyzed at baseline and on the 4th, 8th, and 12th cycles of chemotherapy.Results.There were 19 male and 15 female patients. Baseline characteristics of the groups were similar, but women had better overall survival than men (14 months versus 12 months,P=0.044). D-dimer levels decreased significantly after the 12th cycle compared with baseline in men but not in women. Men and women had increased levels of serum fibrinogen at the early cycles, but these increased fibrinogen levels continued after the 4th cycle of chemotherapy only in women. In addition, serum fibrinogen levels did not significantly change, but aPTT levels decreased in men.Discussion.The major finding of this study is that bevacizumab-FOLFIRI chemotherapy does not promote changes in the coagulation system. If chemotherapy treatment and the possible side effects of FOLFIRI-bevacizumab treatment are well managed, then alterations of the coagulation cascade will not have an impact on overall survival and mortality.
Jet-Impingement Effects of Alumina-Nanofluid on Aluminum and Copper
Authors: Molina Gustavo J. , Aktaruzzaman Fnu , Stregles Whitney , Soloiu Valentin , Rahman Mosfequr
Published: August 2014

Nanofluids are nanosize-powder suspensions that are of interest for their enhanced thermal transport properties. They are studied as promising alternatives to ordinary cooling fluids, but the tribiological effects of nanofluids on cooling-system materials are largely unknown. The authors have developed methodology that uses jet impingement on typical cooling-system materials to test such effects. The work is presented of the authors’ research on the interactions of a typical nanofluid (2% volume of alumina nanopowders in a solution of ethylene glycol in water) which is impinged on aluminum and copper specimens for tests as long as 112 hours. The surface changes were assessed by roughness measurements and optical-microscope studies. Comparative roughness indicate that both the reference cooling fluid of ethylene glycol and water and its nanofluid with 2% alumina produce roughness changes in aluminum (even for the shortest 3-hour test), but no significant roughness differences were observed between them. No significant roughness changes were observed for copper. Microscopy observations, however, show different surface modifications in both aluminum and copper by both the nanofluid and its base fluid. The possible mechanisms of early erosion are discussed. These investigations demonstrate suitable methods for the testing of nanofluid effects on cooling system-materials.
Optimal Joint Allocation of MultiSlot Spectrum Sensing and Transfer Power in MultiChannel Cognitive Radio
Authors: Liu Xin , Jia Min , Gu Xuemai , Kong Fanqiang , Jing Qingfeng
Published: August 2014

In multichannel, cognitive radio (CR), the secondary user (SU) is allowed to utilize multiple subaltern frequency bands of the primary user (PU), when these bands, namely, subchannels are not currently being used. To support this spectrum reuse functionality, the SU is required to sense each subchannel, and only the subchannels wherein the PU is inactive are available for the spectrum access of the SU. In this paper, a multislot spectrum sensing and transfer scheme for multichannel CR is proposed, whose sensing stage is divided into several time slots allocated to the subchannels for spectrum sensing. While guaranteeing the spectrum sensing performance on each subchannel and limiting the interference to the PU, we formulate an optimization problem that maximizes the SU’s aggregate throughput by jointly allocating the optimal number of sensing time slots and the optimal transfer power to each subchannel. Theoretical analysis is given to prove the feasibility of the proposed optimization problem and simulation results are presented to show the notable improvement on the SU’s throughput when the sensing time slots and the transfer power are both optimized by the proposed scheme.
Saltcedar (Tamarix ramosissima) Invasion Alters Decomposer Fauna and Plant Litter Decomposition in a Temperate Xerophytic Deciduous Forest
Authors: Bedano José Camilo , Sacchi Laura , Natale Evangelina , Reinoso Herminda
Published: August 2014

Plant invasions may alter the soil system by changing litter quality and quantity, thereby affecting soil community and ecosystem processes. We investigated the effect of Tamarix ramosissima invasion on the decomposer fauna and litter decomposition process, as well as the importance of litter quality in decomposition. Litter decomposition and decomposer communities were evaluated in two monospecific saltcedar forests and two native forests in Argentina, in litterbags containing either local litter (saltcedar or dominant native species) or a control litter. Saltcedar invasion produced an increase in Collembola, Acari, and total mesofauna abundance, regardless of the litter type. Control litter decomposition was higher in the native forest than in the saltcedar forest, showing that increased abundance of decomposer fauna does not necessarily accelerate decomposition processes. Local litter decomposition was not different between forests, suggesting that decomposer fauna of both ecosystems is adapted to efficiently decompose the autochthonous litter. Our results suggest that the introduction of a resource with higher quality than the local one has a negative effect on decomposition in both ecosystems, which is more pronounced in the invaded forest than in the native forest. This finding stresses the low plasticity of saltcedar decomposer community to adapt to short-term environmental changes.
Laparoscopic Reversal of Hartmann’s Procedure: State of the Art 20 Years after the First Reported Case
Authors: Toro Adriana , Ardiri Annalisa , Mannino Maurizio , Politi Antonio , Di Stefano Andrea , Aftab Zia , Abdelaal Abdelrahman , Arcerito Maria Concetta , Cavallaro Andrea , Cavallaro Marco , Bertino Gaetano , Di Carlo Isidoro
Published: August 2014

Introduction.Aim of the present work is to review the literature to point out the role of laparoscopic reversal of Hartmann procedure.Material and Methods.Number of patients, age, sex, etiology, Hinchey classification, interval between procedure and reversal, position of the first trocars, mean operative time (min), number and causes of conversion, length of stay, mortality, complications, and quality of life were considered.Results.238 males (52.4%) and 216 females (47.6%) between 38 and 67 years were analyzed. The etiology was diverticulitis in 292 patients (72.1%), carcinoma in 43 patients (10.6%), and other in 70 patients (17.3%). Only 7 articles (22.6%) reported Hinchey classification. The interval between initial procedure and reversal was between 50 and 330 days. The initial trocar was open positioned in 182 patients (43.2%) through umbilical incision, in 177 patients (41.9%) in right upper quadrant, and in 63 patients (14.9%) in colostomy site. The operative time was between 69 and 285 minutes. A total of 83 patients (12.1%) were converted and the causes were reported in 67.4%. The length of stay was between 3 and 12 days. 5 patients (0.7%) died. The complications concern 112 cases (16.4%).Conclusion.The laparoscopic Hartmann’s reversal is safer and achieves faster positive results.
Study of Confinement/Deconfinement Transition in AdS/QCD with Generalized Warp Factors
Authors: Sachan Shobhit
Published: August 2014

We study analytical solutions of charged black holes and thermally charged AdS with generalized warped factors in Einstein-Maxwell-Dilaton system. We calculate Euclidean action for charged AdS and thermally charged AdS. The actions in both backgrounds are regularized by the method of background subtraction. The study of phase transition between charged black hole and thermally charged AdS gives an insight into the confinement/deconfinement transition. The plots of grand potential versus temperature and chemical potential versus transition temperature are obtained.
Crosslinguistic Developmental Consistency in the Composition of Toddlers’ Internal State Vocabulary: Evidence from Four Languages
Authors: Kristen Susanne , Chiarella Sabrina , Sodian Beate , Aureli Tiziana , Genco Maria , Poulin-Dubois Diane
Published: August 2014

Mental state language, emerging in the second and third years of life in typically developing children, is one of the first signs of an explicit psychological understanding. While mental state vocabulary may serve a variety of conversational functions in discourse and thus might not always indicate psychological comprehension, there is evidence for genuine references to mental states (desires, knowledge, beliefs, and emotions) early in development across languages. This present study presents parental questionnaire data on the composition of 297 toddler-aged (30-to 32-month-olds) children’s internal state vocabulary in four languages: Italian, German, English, and French. The results demonstrated that across languages expressions for physiological states (e.g., hungry and tired) were among the most varied, while children’s vocabulary for cognitive entities (e.g., know and think) proved to be least varied. Further, consistent with studies on children’s comprehension of these concepts, across languages children’s mastery of volition terms (e.g., like to do and want) preceded their mastery of cognition terms. These findings confirm the cross-linguistic consistency of children’s emerging expression of abstract psychological concepts.
A Theoretical Model for the Transmission Dynamics of the Buruli Ulcer with Saturated Treatment
Authors: Bonyah Ebenezer , Dontwi Isaac , Nyabadza Farai
Published: August 2014

The management of the Buruli ulcer (BU) in Africa is often accompanied by limited resources, delays in treatment, and macilent capacity in medical facilities. These challenges limit the number of infected individuals that access medical facilities. While most of the mathematical models with treatment assume a treatment function proportional to the number of infected individuals, in settings with such limitations, this assumption may not be valid. To capture these challenges, a mathematical model of the Buruli ulcer with a saturated treatment function is developed and studied. The model is a coupled system of two submodels for the human population and the environment. We examine the stability of the submodels and carry out numerical simulations. The model analysis is carried out in terms of the reproduction number of the submodel of environmental dynamics. The dynamics of the human population submodel, are found to occur at the steady states of the submodel of environmental dynamics. Sensitivity analysis is carried out on the model parameters and it is observed that the BU epidemic is driven by the dynamics of the environment. The model suggests that more effort should be focused on environmental management. The paper is concluded by discussing the public implications of the results.
Secure Collaborative Key Management for Dynamic Groups in Mobile Networks
Authors: Kang Sukin , Ji Cheongmin , Hong Manpyo
Published: August 2014

Mobile networks are composed of heterogeneous mobile devices with peer-to-peer wireless communication. Their dynamic and self-organizing natures pose security challenge. We consider secure group key management for peer dynamic groups in mobile wireless networks. Many group based applications have achieved remarkable growth along with increasing use of multicast based services. The key sharing among the group members is an important issue for secure group communication because the communication for many participants implies that the likelihood of illegal overhearing increases. We propose a group key sharing scheme and efficient rekeying methods for frequent membership changes from network dynamics. The proposed method enables the group members to simply establish a group key and provide high flexibility for dynamic group changes such as member join or leave and group merging or partition. We conduct mathematical evaluation with other group key management protocols and finally prove its security by demonstrating group key secrecy, backward and forward secrecy, key independence, and implicit key authentication under the decisional Diffie-Hellman (DDH) assumption.
Hypoxia in Head and Neck Cancer in Theory and Practice: A PET-Based Imaging Approach
Authors: Marcu Loredana G. , Harriss-Phillips Wendy M. , Filip Sanda M.
Published: August 2014

Hypoxia plays an important role in tumour recurrence among head and neck cancer patients. The identification and quantification of hypoxic regions are therefore an essential aspect of disease management. Several predictive assays for tumour oxygenation status have been developed in the past with varying degrees of success. To date, functional imaging techniques employing positron emission tomography (PET) have been shown to be an important tool for both pretreatment assessment and tumour response evaluation during therapy. Hypoxia-specific PET markers have been implemented in several clinics to quantify hypoxic tumour subvolumes for dose painting and personalized treatment planning and delivery. Several new radiotracers are under investigation. PET-derived functional parameters and tracer pharmacokinetics serve as valuable input data for computational models aiming at simulating or interpreting PET acquired data, for the purposes of input into treatment planning or radio/chemotherapy response prediction programs. The present paper aims to cover the current status of hypoxia imaging in head and neck cancer together with the justification for the need and the role of computer models based on PET parameters in understanding patient-specific tumour behaviour.
Fractal Image Coding Based on a Fitting Surface
Authors: Bi Sheng , Wang Qiang
Published: August 2014

A no-search fractal image coding method based on a fitting surface is proposed. In our research, an improved gray-level transform with a fitting surface is introduced. One advantage of this method is that the fitting surface is used for both the range and domain blocks and one set of parameters can be saved. Another advantage is that the fitting surface can approximate the range and domain blocks better than the previous fitting planes; this can result in smaller block matching errors and better decoded image quality. Since the no-search and quadtree techniques are adopted, smaller matching errors also imply less number of blocks matching which results in a faster encoding process. Moreover, by combining all the fitting surfaces, a fitting surface image (FSI) is also proposed to speed up the fractal decoding. Experiments show that our proposed method can yield superior performance over the other three methods. Relative to range-averaged image, FSI can provide faster fractal decoding process. Finally, by combining the proposed fractal coding method with JPEG, a hybrid coding method is designed which can provide higher PSNR than JPEG while maintaining the same Bpp.
Neonatal Thrombocytopenia after Perinatal Asphyxia Treated with Hypothermia: A Retrospective Case Control Study
Authors: Boutaybi N. , Razenberg F. , Smits-Wintjens V. E. H. J. , van Zwet E. W. , Rijken M. , Steggerda S. J. , Lopriore E.
Published: August 2014

Our objective was to estimate the effect of therapeutic hypothermia on platelet count in neonates after perinatal asphyxia. We performed a retrospective case control study of all (near-) term neonates with perinatal asphyxia admitted between 2004 and 2012 to our neonatal intensive care unit. All neonates treated with therapeutic hypothermia were included in this study (hypothermia group) and compared with a historic control group of neonates with perinatal asphyxia treated before introduction of therapeutic hypothermia (2008). Primary outcome was thrombocytopenia during the first week after birth. Thrombocytopenia was found significantly more often in the hypothermia group than in the control group, 80% (43/54) versus 59% (27/46) (P=.02). The lowest mean platelet count in the hypothermia group and control group was97×109/Land125×109/L(P=.06), respectively, and was reached at a mean age of 4.1 days in the hypothermia group and 2.9 days in the control group (P<.001). The incidence of moderate/severe cerebral hemorrhage was 6% (3/47) in the hypothermia group versus 9% (3/35) in the control group (P=.64). In conclusion, neonates with perinatal asphyxia treated with therapeutic hypothermia are at increased risk of thrombocytopenia, without increased risk of cerebral hemorrhage.
Giant Popliteal Artery Aneurysm: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Verikokos Christos , Karaolanis Georgios , Doulaptsis Mikes , Kouvelos Georgios , Kotzadimitriou Aikaterini , Palla Viktoria-Varvara , Klonaris Christos
Published: August 2014

Popliteal artery aneurysms (PAAs) are rare in general population but represent the second most common peripheral arterial aneurysms following those located in the aortoiliac segment. They usually affect men over 60 years old with established cardiovascular disease caused by atherosclerosis. Other more unusual conditions such as trauma, congenital popliteal aneurysm, mycotic aneurysm, inflammatory arteritis, or popliteal entrapment are responsible. The authors report the first ever case of a male diagnosed with chronic renal failure with giant popliteal artery aneurysm. We have successfully resected the aneurysm and revascularized with synthetic graft.
First Reported Case of Proliferative Retinopathy in Hemoglobin SE Disease
Authors: Baciu Paul , Yang Christopher , Fantin Aldo , Darnley-Fisch Deborah , Desai Uday
Published: August 2014

We report the first case of proliferative sickle cell retinopathy in a patient with hemoglobin SE (Hb SE) disease. Only a few dozen cases of Hb SE disease have been reported previously, and none had evidence of proliferative retinopathy. A 56-year-old African American man presented to our clinic for routine examination and was found to have sea-fan peripheral neovascularization bilaterally without maculopathy. Hemoglobin analysis revealed Hb SE heterozygosity. Sector laser photocoagulation to areas of nonperfusion in both eyes resulted in regression of the peripheral neovascularization over a period of 6 months. Although Hb SE disease is rare, the incidence of Hb SE disease is postulated to rise in the future. Awareness of its potential ocular complications is needed to appropriately refer these patients for screening.
Matrix Gla Protein Binds to Fibronectin and Enhances Cell Attachment and Spreading on Fibronectin
Authors: Nishimoto Satoru Ken , Nishimoto Miyako
Published: August 2014

Background. Matrix Gla protein (MGP) is a vitamin K-dependent, extracellular matrix protein. MGP is a calcification inhibitor of arteries and cartilage. However MGP is synthesized in many tissues and is especially enriched in embryonic tissues and in cancer cells. The presence of MGP in those instances does not correlate well with the calcification inhibitory role. This study explores a potential mechanism for MGP to bind to matrix proteins and alter cell matrix interactions.Methods. To determine whether MGP influences cell behavior through interaction with fibronectin, we studied MGP binding to fibronectin, the effect of MGP on fibronectin mediated cell attachment and spreading and immunolocalized MGP and fibronectin.Results. First, MGP binds to fibronectin. The binding site for MGP is in a specific fibronectin fragment, called III1-C or anastellin. The binding site for fibronectin is in a MGP C-terminal peptide comprising amino acids 61–77. Second, MGP enhances cell attachment and cell spreading on fibronectin. MGP alone does not promote cell adhesion. Third, MGP is present in fibronectin-rich regions of tissue sections.Conclusions. MGP binds to fibronectin. The presence of MGP increased cell-fibronectin interactions.
Optical and Structural Characterization of Nickel Coatings for Solar Collector Receivers
Authors: Pratesi Stefano , Sani Elisa , De Lucia Maurizio
Published: August 2014

The development of spectrally selective materials is gaining an increasing role in solar thermal technology. The ideal spectrally selective solar absorber requires high absorbance at the solar spectrum wavelengths and low emittance at the wavelengths of thermal spectrum. Selective coating represents a promising route to improve the receiver efficiency for parabolic trough collectors (PTCs). In this work, we describe an intermediate step in the fabrication of black-chrome based solar absorbers, namely, the fabrication and characterization of nickel coatings on stainless steel substrates. Microstructural characteristics of nickel surfaces are known to favorably affect further black chrome deposition. Moreover, the high reflectivity of nickel in the thermal infrared wavelength region can be advantageously exploited for reducing thermal emission losses. Thus, this report investigates structural features and optical properties of the nickel surfaces, correlating them to coating thickness and deposition process, in the perspective to assess optimal conditions for solar absorber applications.
Urinary Trypsin Inhibitor Ameliorates Seawater Immersion-Induced Intestinal Mucosa Injury via Antioxidation, Modulation of NF-κB Activity, and Its Related Cytokines in Rats with Open Abdominal Injury
Authors: Zhang Xing Jian , Wang Ya Li , Zhou Song , Xue Xiaojun , Liu Qiang , Zhang Wen Hua , Zheng Jun
Published: August 2014

Objective. To investigate the role of oxidative stress, NF-κB activity, and its related cytokines in the pathogenesis of seawater immersion after open abdominal injury (SI-OAI) and whether UTI treatment can attenuate SI-OAI induced IMI.Methods. Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: C group, S group, and U group. The rats in C group only suffered from anesthesia and surgical operation, whereas the rats in S group and U group received caudal vein injection of normal saline without/with 50,000 U/kg body weight of UTI. The activities of TNF-α, IL-6, SOD, MDA, ROS, NF-κB, and IκB-βwere monitored by ELISA, biochemical methods, EMSA, and Western blot, respectively.Results. The plasma inflammatory mediators and the contents of MDA, ROS, and NF-κB in intestine as well as the pathological scores in ileal mucosa were significantly increased in rats after SI-OAI, accompanied by a reduction in SOD activities and IκB-βlevels. UTI treatment significantly attenuated intestinal histopathological changes with evidence of a decrease in all of the parameters, except for upregulation of the levels of SOD and IκB-βprotein.Conclusion. UTI can attenuate SI-OAI induced IMI via inhibition of NF-κB activity, subsequently inhibiting the expression of inflammatory cytokines and by combating oxidative stress.
Investigation on the Crack Initiation of V-Shaped Notch Tip in Precision Cropping
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Zhao Shengdun , Wang Zhenwei
Published: August 2014

The crack initiation of V-shaped notch tip has a very important influence on the cross-section quality and the cropping time for every segment of metal bar in course of low stress precision cropping. By the finite element method, the influence of machining precision of V-shaped notch bottom corner on the crack initiation location is analyzed and it is pointed out that the crack initiation point locates in the place at the maximal equivalent stress change rate on V-shaped notch surface. The judgment criterion of the crack initiation direction is presented and the corresponding crack initiation angle can be calculated by means of the displacement extrapolation method. The factual crack initiation angle of the metal bar has been measured by using the microscopic measurement system. The formula of the crack initiation life of V-shaped notch tip is built, which mainly includes the stress concentration factor of V-shaped notch, the tensile properties of metal material, and the cyclic loading conditions. The experimental results show that the obtained theoretical analyses about the crack initiation location, the crack initiation direction, and the crack initiation time in this paper are correct. It is also shown that the crack initiation time accounts for about 80% of the cropping time for every segment of the metal bar.
Experimental Study of Gas Explosions in Hydrogen Sulfide-Natural Gas-Air Mixtures
Authors: Gaathaug André Vagner , Bjerketvedt Dag , Vaagsaether Knut , Nilsen Sandra Hennie
Published: August 2014

An experimental study of turbulent combustion of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and natural gas was performed to provide reference data for verification of CFD codes and direct comparison. Hydrogen sulfide is present in most crude oil sources, and the explosion behaviour of pure H2S and mixtures with natural gas is important to address. The explosion behaviour was studied in a four-meter-long square pipe. The first two meters of the pipe had obstacles while the rest was smooth. Pressure transducers were used to measure the combustion in the pipe. The pure H2S gave slightly lower explosion pressure than pure natural gas for lean-to-stoichiometric mixtures. The rich H2S gave higher pressure than natural gas. Mixtures of H2S and natural gas were also studied and pressure spikes were observed when 5% and 10% H2S were added to natural gas and also when 5% and 10% natural gas were added to H2S. The addition of 5% H2S to natural gas resulted in higher pressure than pure H2S and pure natural gas. The 5% mixture gave much faster combustion than pure natural gas under fuel rich conditions.
Employing a Participatory Research Approach to Explore Physical Activity among Older African American Women
Authors: Sebastião Emerson , Ibe-Lamberts Kelechi , Bobitt Julie , Schwingel Andiara , Chodzko-Zajko Wojtek
Published: August 2014

Introduction. Older African American women are particularly vulnerable to unhealthy lifestyle behaviors such as physical inactivity and the resultant chronic diseases and conditions. This study explored older African American women’s perception of physical activity as well as facilitators of and barriers to being physically active in their local environment.Methods. Using a participatory research approach, a total of 7 women aged 65 years and over had their PA level assessed objectively through accelerometry. In addition, physical activity was discussed through the photo-elicitation procedure, which was supplemented by semistructured interviews. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and themes emerging from participants’ interview.Results. Participants exhibited low levels of physical activity and viewed “physical activity” to be a broadly defined, nonspecific construct. Interviews revealed that many participants lack important knowledge about physical activity. A variety of personal, social, and environmental facilitators and barriers were reported by the participants.Conclusion. Efforts should be made towards clarifying information on physical activity in this population in order to help them incorporate physical activity into their routines, overcome barriers, and make use of opportunities to be active.
Thio-β-D-glucosides: Synthesis and Evaluation as Glycosidase Inhibitors and Activators
Authors: Samoshin Andrey V. , Dotsenko Irina A. , Samoshina Nataliya M. , Franz Andreas H. , Samoshin Vyacheslav V.
Published: August 2014

Structurally simple 1-thio-β-D-glucopyranosides were synthesized and tested as potential inhibitors toward several fungal glycosidases from Aspergillus oryzae and Penicillium canescens. Significant selective inhibition was observed for α- and β-glucosidases, while a weak to moderate activation for α- and β-galactosidases.
Obesity, Physical Activity, and Their Interaction in Incident Atrial Fibrillation in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Azarbal Farnaz , Stefanick Marcia L. , Salmoirago‐Blotcher Elena , Manson JoAnn E. , Albert Christine M. , LaMonte Michael J. , Larson Joseph C. , Li Wenjun , Martin Lisa W. , Nassir Rami , Garcia Lorena , Assimes Themistocles L. , Tharp Katie M. , Hlatky Mark A. , Perez Marco V.
Published: August 2014

Background

Atrial fibrillation (
AF
) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with increased risk of stroke and death. Obesity is an independent risk factor for
AF
, but modifiers of this risk are not well known. We studied the roles of obesity, physical activity, and their interaction in conferring risk of incident
AF
.

Methods and Results

The Women's Health Initiative (
WHI
) Observational Study was a prospective observational study of 93 676 postmenopausal women followed for an average of 11.5 years. Incident
AF
was identified using
WHI
‐ascertained hospitalization records and diagnostic codes from Medicare claims. A multivariate Cox's hazard regression model adjusted for demographic and clinical risk factors was used to evaluate the interaction between obesity and physical activity and its association with incident
AF
. After exclusion of women with prevalent
AF
, incomplete data, or underweight body mass index (
BMI
), 9792 of the remaining 81 317 women developed
AF
. Women were, on average, 63.4 years old, 7.8% were African American, and 3.6% were Hispanic. Increased
BMI
(hazard ratio [
HR
], 1.12 per 5‐kg/m
2
increase; 95% confidence interval [
CI
], 1.10 to 1.14) and reduced physical activity (>9 vs. 0 metabolic equivalent task hours per week;
HR
, 0.90; 95%
CI
, 0.85 to 0.96) were independently associated with higher rates of
AF
after multivariate adjustment. Higher levels of physical activity reduced the
AF
risk conferred by obesity (interaction
P
=0.033).

Conclusions

Greater physical activity is associated with lower rates of incident
AF
and modifies the association between obesity and incident
AF
.