bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibacterial Activity of Fistulin: A Protease Inhibitor Purified from the Leaves of Cassia fistula
Authors: Arulpandi I. , Sangeetha R.
Published: July 2012

Plant protease inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the important components of a plant’s defense machinery. PPIs are active against the insects and microbes which invade the plant. Cassia species possess anti-insecticidal and antimicrobial properties and this study was aimed at investigating the antibacterial efficacy of a PPI present in the leaves of Cassia fistula. A PPI, fistulin, was isolated from the leaves of C. fistula and purified by gel filtration chromatography. The antibacterial activity of the purified fistulin was studied against five bacterial strains, namely, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. The PPI was found to be very active against S. aureus, E. coli, B. subtilis, and K. pneumonia, and its efficacy was comparable to the standard drug, streptomycin sulphate.
Serum Levels of Fetal Antigen 1 in Extreme Nutritional States
Authors: Andries Alin , Niemeier Andreas , Støving Rene K. , Abdallah Basem M. , Wolf Anna-Maria , Hørder Kirsten , Kassem Moustapha
Published: July 2012

Objective. Recent data suggest that fetal antigen (FA1) is linked to disorders of body weight. Thus, we measured FA1 serum levels in two extreme nutritional states of morbid obesity (MO) and anorexia nervosa (AN) and monitored its response to weight changes. Design. FA1 and insulin serum concentrations were assessed in a cross-sectional study design at defined time points after gastric restrictive surgery for 25 MO patients and 15 women with AN. Results. Absolute FA1 serum levels were within the assay normal range and were not different between the groups at baseline. However, the ratio of FA1/BMI was significantly higher in AN. FA1 was inversely correlated with BMI before and after weight change in AN, but not in MO patients. In addition, MO patients displayed a significant concomitant decrease of FA1 and insulin with the first 25% of EWL, while in AN patients a significant increase of FA1 was observed in association with weight gain. Conclusion. FA1 is a sensitive indicator of metabolic adaptation during weight change. While FA1 serum levels in humans generally do not correlate with BMI, our results suggest that changes in FA1 serum levels reflect changes in adipose tissue turnover.
Hepatitis Disease Diagnosis Using Hybrid Case Based Reasoning and Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Neshat Mehdi , Sargolzaei Mehdi , Nadjaran Toosi Adel , Masoumi Azra
Published: July 2012

Correct diagnosis of a disease is one of the most important problems in medicine. Hepatitis disease is one of the most dangerous diseases that affect millions of people every year and take man’s life. In this paper, the combination of two methods of PSO and CBR (case-based reasoning) has been used to diagnose hepatitis disease. First, a case-based reasoning method is workable to preprocess the data set therefore a weight vector for every one feature is extracted. A particle swarm optimization model is then practical to assemble a decision-making system based on the selected features and diseases recognized. Many researchers have tried to have a more accurate diagnosis of the disease through the use of various methods. The data used has been taken from the site UCI called hepatitis disease. This database has 155 records and 19 fields. This method was compared with five other classification methods and given the results of the proposed method (CBR-PSO), better results were achieved. The proposed method could diagnose hepatitis disease with the accuracy of 93.25%.
Catalytic Thermal Liquefaction of Oil Shale in Tetralin
Authors: Johannes I. , Tiikma L. , Luik H. , Tamvelius H. , Krasulina J.
Published: July 2012

A short review on the publications concerning thermal liquefaction of solid fuels in the environment of hydrogen donor solvents and catalysts is compiled. New experimental results on the catalytic thermal dissolution of oil shale in tetralin as the hydrogen donor solvent in a batch autoclave are presented. The impacts of pyrolysis temperature, duration, and catalyst type on the yields of gas, maltenes, asphaltenes, preasphaltenes, and coke in the presence of tetralin are described.
A Comparative Study of the Removal of Smear Layer by Two Endodontic Irrigants and Nd:YAG Laser: A Scanning Electron Microscopic Study
Authors: Hasheminia Seyed Mohsen , Birang Reza , Feizianfard Mahboobe , Nasouri Mina
Published: July 2012

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of 17% EDTA, 5% maleic acid, and Nd:YAG laser on smear layer removal by SEM. Eighty single-rooted teeth were divided into three groups of 25 according to the final procedure for smear layer removal: irrigation by 17% EDTA or 5% maleic acid or Nd:YAG laser irradiation. The other five teeth was used as control. Roots were sectioned into buccal and lingual parts, and smear layer presence was recorded in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds under SEM. Data were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney, Friedman, and Wilcoxon tests. There was no significant difference between smear layer removal of 17% EDTA and 5% maleic acid. Nd:YAG laser showed the least effect significantly. The coronal part of samples was significantly cleaner than the middle, and the middle was cleaner than the apical section. 17% EDTA and 5% maleic acid were more effective in smear layer removal compared to Nd:YAG laser.
Comparative Study of the Physicochemical Characterization of Some Oils as Potential Feedstock for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Ibeto Cynthia Nkolika , Okoye Chukwuma Obiajulu Benedict , Ofoefule Akuzuo Uwaoma
Published: July 2012

Physicochemical properties of Cucurbita pepo, Brachystegia eurycoma, Cucumis melo, Luffa cylindrica, and Arachis hypogaea oils were studied to determine their potential as viable feedstock for biodiesel production. The nonedible oils were extracted by solvent extraction using n-hexane while the oil of Arachis hypogaea was procured. All the oils were characterized for specific gravity, pH, ash content, iodine value, acid value, saponification value, peroxide value, free fatty acid, flash point, kinematic viscosity, and refractive indices using standard methods. Cucurbita pepo seeds had very high oil content when compared to the others. Specific gravity and flash point of the oils were satisfactory. However, moisture content of some of the oils exceeded the stipulated ASTM standard for biodiesel production. Again, acid values of the nonedible oils were very high and exceeded the ASTM standard. They also exceeded the acid value of Arachis hypogaea oil except for Luffa cylindrica oil. Results indicate that the oils are potential biodiesel feedstocks. However, overall results indicate that the nonedible oils are not suitable for single-stage transesterification process to biodiesel but would be better suited for the two stage esterification and subsequent transesterification in order to obtain reasonable yields of the methyl esters.
On the Convergence of the Modified Riccati Equation
Authors: Assimakis Nicholas , Adam Maria
Published: July 2012

The modified Riccati equation arises in the implementation of Kalman filter in target tracking under measurement uncertainty and it cannot be transformed into an equation of the form of the Riccati equation. An iterative solution algorithm of the modified Riccati equation is proposed. A method is established to decide when the proposed algorithm is faster than the classical one. Both algorithms have the same behavior: if the system is stable, then there exists a steady-state solution, while if the system is unstable, then there exists a critical value of the measurement detection probability, below which both iterative algorithms diverge. It is established that this critical value increases in a logarithmic way as the system becomes more unstable.
Poststroke Fatigue Is Still a Neglected Issue: Findings from an Internet-Based Study on the Need for Information and Treatment in The Netherlands
Authors: Zedlitz Aglaia M. E. E. , van Eijk Michelle , Kessels Roy P. C. , Geurts Alexander C. H. , Fasotti Luciano
Published: July 2012

Objective. To evaluate the need for information and treatment of poststroke fatigue (PSF) in community-dwelling patients with stroke in The Netherlands. Methods. Data were obtained from a Dutch internet-based questionnaire. The amount of information received about PSF, self-management and other treatment options, and the perceived need for treatment were scored. PSF was assessed with two Visual Numerical Scales of fatigue severity (VNSF), the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS7), and by scoring the nature (physical versus mental) and onset time of PSF. Results. Data were available of 538 stroke survivors (mean age 52 years, 45% men, and mean time since onset 2.7 years). Severe fatigue (both VNSF items ≥7; 48%) and severe fatigue impact (FSS7 > 5; 68%) were frequent. Most participants (57%) experienced both physical and mental fatigue. Only 17% of the respondents indicated to have had received sufficient information about PSF and 7% about treatment options, whereas 56% expressed a substantial need for treatment. The need for treatment was moderately associated with fatigue severity and fatigue impact, whereas information status was not related to any demographical, fatigue, or stroke characteristic. Conclusions. PSF is a significant symptom after stroke requiring medical attention and treatment. The results of this survey indicate that patients do not receive adequate information on PSF.
Stoichiometric Analysis of Inorganic Compounds Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy with Gated and Nongated Spectrometers
Authors: Sunku Sreedhar , Myakalwar Ashwin Kumar , Gundawar Manoj Kumar , Paturi Prem Kiran , Tewari Surya Praksh , Soma Venugopal Rao
Published: July 2012

We describe our results obtained from stoichiometric ratio studies of three different energetic, inorganic samples (ammonium perchlorate (AP), boron potassium nitrate (BPN), and ammonium nitrate (AN)) using the technique of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with nanosecond pulses. Signal collection was independently executed using both gated and nongated spectrometers. The oxygen peak at 777.31 nm (O) and nitrogen peaks at 742.50 nm (N1), 744.34 nm (N2), and 746.91 nm (N3) were used for evaluating the O/N ratios. Temporal analysis of plasma parameters and ratios was carried out for the gated data. O/N1, O/N2, and O/N3 ratios retrieved from the gated AP data were in excellent agreement with the actual stoichiometry. In the case of gated BPN data, O/N2 and O/N3 ratios were in good agreement. The stoichiometry results obtained with nongated spectrometer, although less accurate than that obtained with gated spectrometer, suggest that it can be used in applications where fair accuracy is sufficient. Our results strongly indicate that non-gated LIBS technique is worthwhile in the kind of applications where precision classification is not required.
The Kalman Filter for Complex Fibonacci Systems
Authors: Donoghue John
Published: July 2012

This paper investigates the characteristics of the Kalman filter for a broad class of complex Fibonacci systems and represents an extension to the complex domain of the state estimation problem for the real-valued Fibonacci system. Complex Fibonacci systems are obtained by modifying the real-valued Fibonacci recurrence relation to include complex coefficients, control and noise inputs, and a noisy output-measurement equation. Analytic expressions for the Kalman filter’s steady-state gain and error covariance matrices are obtained, and it is found that for a broad subclass of these complex systems the elements of the matrices are functions of the golden ratio.
Low-Temperature Combustion Technology
Authors: Osintsev Konstantin
Published: July 2012

Any coal-fired boiler is always designed on a certain kind of coal. In the EU and Russia in the old coal mines can be mined coal with a high content of moisture and ash. In order to use coal with different characteristics in the same steam generator, it is necessary to create a new coal combustion technology.
External Validation of an Artificial Neural Network and Two Nomograms for Prostate Cancer Detection
Authors: Ecke Thorsten H. , Hallmann Steffen , Koch Stefan , Ruttloff Jürgen , Cammann Henning , Gerullis Holger , Miller Kurt , Stephan Carsten
Published: July 2012

Background. Multivariate models are used to increase prostate cancer (PCa) detection rate and to reduce unnecessary biopsies. An external validation of the artificial neural network (ANN) “ProstataClass” (ANN-Charité) was performed with daily routine data. Materials and Methods. The individual ANN predictions were generated with the use of the ANN application for PSA and free PSA assays, which rely on age, tPSA, %fPSA, prostate volume, and DRE (ANN-Charité). Diagnostic validity of tPSA, %fPSA, and the ANN was evaluated by ROC curve analysis and comparisons of observed versus predicted probabilities. Results. Overall, 101 (35.8%) PCa were detected. The areas under the ROC curve (AUCs) were 0.501 for tPSA, 0.669 for %fPSA, 0.694 for ANN-Charité, 0.713 for nomogram I, and 0.742 for nomogram II, showing a significant advantage for nomogram II (P=0.009) compared with %fPSA while the other model did not differ from %fPSA (P=0.15 and P=0.41). All models overestimated the predicted PCa probability. Conclusions. Beside ROC analysis, calibration is an important tool to determine the true value of using a model in clinical practice. The worth of multivariate models is limited when external validations were performed without knowledge of the circumstances of the model's development.
Observability of Spectral Components beyond Nyquist Limit in Nonuniformly Sampled Signals
Authors: Púčik Jozef , Ondráček Oldřich , Cocherová Elena
Published: July 2012

Identification of a signal component with the frequency exceeding the Nyquist limit is a challenging problem in signal theory as well as in some specific applications areas like astronomy and biosciences. A consequence of the well-known sampling theorem for a uniformly sampled signal is that the spectral component above the Nyquist limit is aliased into lower frequency range, making a distinction between true and aliased components impossible. The nonuniform sampling, however, offers a possibility to reduce aliased components and uncover information above the Nyquist limit. In this paper, we provide a theoretical analysis of the aliased components reduction in the nonparametric periodogram for two sampling schemes: the random sampling pattern and the sampling pattern generated by the integral pulse frequency modulation (IPFM), the latter widely accepted as the heart rate timing model. A general formula that relates the variance of timing deviations from a regular scheme with the aliased component suppression is proposed. The derived relation is illustrated by Lomb-Scargle periodograms applied on simulated data. Presented experimental data consisting of the respiration signal derived from the electrocardiogram and the heart rate signal also support possibility to detect frequencies above the Nyquist limit in the condition known as the cardiac aliasing.
Chromatographic Removal of Endotoxins: A Bioprocess Engineer's Perspective
Authors: Ongkudon Clarence M. , Chew Jia Han , Liu Boyin , Danquah Michael K.
Published: July 2012

Gram-negative bacteria are widely used for the production of gene-based products such as DNA vaccines and bio-drugs, where endotoxin contamination can occur at any point within the process and its removal is of great concern. In this article, we review the structures of endotoxin and the effects that it causes in vivo. The endotoxin removal strategies are also discussed in the light of the different interaction mechanisms involved between endotoxins and bioproducts particularly plasmid DNA and proteins. For most cases, endotoxin removal is favoured at a highly ionic or acidic condition. Various removal methods particularly chromatography-based techniques are covered in this article according to the relevant applications.
The Floppy Eyelid Syndrome: Evaluating Lid Laxity and Its Correlation to Sleep Apnea Syndrome and Body Mass Index
Authors: Beis Panagiotis G. , Brozou Catherine G. , Gourgoulianis Konstantinos I. , Pastaka Chaido , Chatzoulis Dimitrios Z. , Tsironi Evangelia E.
Published: July 2012

Background. The aim of this study is to present a method of lid laxity evaluation and investigate whether there is an association between floppy eyelid syndrome (FES) and body mass index (BMI) in sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) patients compared to normal subjects. Method. A total of 135 participants (81 patients with SAS and 54 normal subjects) had a full ophthalmologic examination. The presence of FES was estimated in relation to SAS and BMI. Results. The floppy eyelid was characterized “hyperelastic,” “FES stage 1 (asymptomatic),” or “FES stage 2 (symptomatic)” depending on its laxity capacity. Hyperelastic floppy eyelid in SAS patients was statistically significant
when compared to normals. Similarly, the presence of hyperelasticity in high-BMI SAS patients was also statistically significant
when compared to low-BMI SAS patients. Floppy eyelid syndrome was more frequent in SAS patients than in normal subjects , but no association was found between FES and obesity . Conclusion. A classification of FES is proposed based on lid laxity. In addition to this, our data suggests a clear association of hyperelasticity and FES to SAS patients but no association between obesity and FES.
Vaginal Use of Ibuprofen Isobutanolammonium (Ginenorm): Efficacy, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetic Data: A Review of Available Data
Authors: Milani Massimo , Iacobelli Piero
Published: July 2012

Vaginal infection and inflammation with or without vulvar involvement are very common gynecologicaly clinical conditions associated with morbidity and reduced quality of life. Vaginal infections are commonly treated with causal antimicrobial treatments. In addition to specific antimicrobial treatment, anti-inflammatory therapy, both systemic or topical (vaginal douche), could be useful in the integrated treatment approach of these conditions reducing symptoms and speeding up the recovery in vulvovaginitis. Ibuprofen is a well-known effective and well-tolerated anti-COX (anti-COX1 and COX2) compound. In addition, several in vitro studies suggest that Ibuprofen shares antimicrobial and antifungal activities. Ibuprofen isobutanolammonium (Ib-isb) (Ginenorm) is a soluble salt from formulation suitable for external and intravaginal use. This salt completely dissociates in aqueous solution. Ib-isob is available in sachet and vaginal douche pharmaceutical formulations. Clinical efficacy of Ib-isob has been documented in 10 clinical studies (6 controlled and 4 open trials) which have enrolled in total 399 women with vulvovaginitis. The six controlled clinical trials were performed both versus placebo (2 studies) or versus active comparators such as benzydamine. In these studied, Ib-Isb has been used in general for 7 consecutive days with a twice application daily regimen at the dose of 1 g per application. Topical application of Ib-isob induced a marked and rapid reduction in signs (erythema, oedema) and symptoms (itching and burning sensation) of vulvovaginitis. In head-to-head studies carried out in comparison with other topical products, Ib-isob induced a more rapid reduction in both subjective and objective symptoms. In particular a remarkable significant improvement of all the symptoms has been observed in the group of patients treated with Ib-isob in comparison with women receiving benzydamine. The clinical data available for Ib-isob confirm that this salt, specifically developed for gynecological use, is effective and well tolerated in vulvovaginal inflammation conditions. Efficacy of Ib-isob was greater in comparison with commonly used products. Ibuprofen-isob may be considered a useful and effective tool for the topical treatment of nonspecific vaginal diseases.
Mapping the Diagnosis Axis of an Interface Terminology to the NANDA International Taxonomy
Authors: Juvé Udina Maria-Eulàlia , Gonzalez Samartino Maribel , Matud Calvo Cristina
Published: July 2012

Background. Nursing terminologies are designed to support nursing practice but, as with any other clinical tool, they should be evaluated. Cross-mapping is a formal method for examining the validity of the existing controlled vocabularies. Objectives. The study aims to assess the inclusiveness and expressiveness of the nursing diagnosis axis of a newly implemented interface terminology by cross-mapping with the NANDA-I taxonomy. Design/Methods. The study applied a descriptive design, using a cross-sectional, bidirectional mapping strategy. The sample included 728 concepts from both vocabularies. Concept cross-mapping was carried out to identify one-to-one, negative, and hierarchical connections. The analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics. Results. Agreement of the raters’ mapping achieved 97%. More than 60% of the nursing diagnosis concepts in the NANDA-I taxonomy were mapped to concepts in the diagnosis axis of the new interface terminology; 71.1% were reversely mapped. Conclusions. Main results for outcome measures suggest that the diagnosis axis of this interface terminology meets the validity criterion of cross-mapping when mapped from and to the NANDA-I taxonomy.
Study of Depression and Its Associated Factors among Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Coastal South India
Authors: Unnikrishnan B. , Jagannath Vinita , Ramapuram John T. , Achappa B. , Madi D.
Published: July 2012

Background. Depression is one of the most prevalent psychiatric diagnoses seen in HIV-positive individuals. Women with HIV are about four times more likely to be depressed than those who are not infected. Aims. To assess the sociodemographic and clinical correlates of depression among women living with HIV/AIDS. Setting and Design. One public and one private hospital in Mangalore, Coastal South India, and cross-sectional design. Methods and Materials. Study constituted of 137 HIV-positive women, depression was assessed using BDI (Beck Depression Inventory), and social support was assessed using Lubben Social Network Scale. Statistical Analysis. All analysis was conducted using SPSS version 11.5. Chi-square test with value less than 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results. Among 137 HIV-positive women, 51.1% were depressed. Around 16% were having moderate to high risk for isolation. Depression was statistically significant in rural women, widowed women, and lower socioeconomic class women. Conclusion. Depression is highly prevalent among women living with HIV which is still underdiagnosed and undertreated, and there is a need to incorporate mental health services as an integral component of HIV care.
Impact of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy with Proton Pump Inhibitors on the Outcome of Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Undergoing Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation
Authors: Macaione Francesca , Montaina Carla , Evola Salvatore , Novo Giuseppina , Novo Salvatore
Published: July 2012

This study aimed to assess if proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel, than H2 antagonist (anti-H2) in order to determine rehospitalization for acute coronary syndrome (re-ACS), target vessel revascularization (TVR) and cardiac death. This case-control study included 176 patients with ACS undergoing angioplasty (PCI) with drug-eluting stent implantation. The population was divided into two groups: PPI group (n=121) consisting of patients receiving at discharge dual antiplatelet therapy (DAT) plus PPI and anti-H2 group (n=55), consisting of patients receiving at discharge DAT + H2 receptor antagonist (H2RA). In a followup of 36 months the prevalence of ACS event (P=0.014), TVR (P=0.031) was higher in the PPI group than in the anti-H2 group; instead there was no statistically significant difference between groups for death. The variables independently associated with ACS were the diabetes, omeprazole, and esomeprazole; instead the variables independently associated with TVR were only omeprazole. Our data shows that the use of omeprazole and esomeprazole, with clopidogrel, is associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes after PCI with drug-eluting stent implantation.
Viscous Bianchi Type I Universe with Stiff Matter and Decaying Vacuum Energy Density
Authors: Bali Raj , Singh Pratibha , Singh J. P.
Published: July 2012

We examine homogeneous and anisotropic Bianchi type I cosmological model with viscous
stiff matter and time-varying cosmological term which scales with Hubble parameter H. The resulting model approaches isotropy. The cosmological term relaxes to a genuine cosmological constant, and the model in the absence of bulk viscosity tends to a deSitter universe asymptotically. Our scenario presents an initial epoch with decelerating expansion followed by late-time acceleration consistent with observations. Bulk viscosity advances the accelerating phase in the model and prevents the matter density to vanish for large times.
On the Completely Positive and Positive Semidefinite-Preserving Cones—Part III
Authors: Klimas Andrew J. , Hill Richard D.
Published: July 2012

This paper studies the extremals and other faces of the completely positive and positive semidefinite-preserving linear transformations.
Treatment Options for Metaplastic Breast Cancer
Authors: Shah Dhruvil R. , Tseng Warren H. , Martinez Steve R.
Published: July 2012

Metaplastic breast cancer (MBC) is a malignancy characterized by the histologic presence of two or more cellular types, commonly a mixture of epithelial and mesenchymal components. MBC is rare relative to invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), representing less than 1% of all breast cancers. Other than a lower rate of lymph node metastases, MBC tumors display poorer prognostic features relative to IDC. Due to its low incidence and pathological variability, the ideal treatment paradigm for MBC is unknown. Because of its rarity, MBC has been treated as a variant of IDC. Despite similar treatment regimens, however, patients with MBC have worse outcomes. Recent research is focused on biological differences between MBC and IDC and potential novel targets for chemotherapeutic agents. This paper serves as a summation of current literature on approaches to the multidisciplinary treatment of patients with MBC.
High-Bandpass Filters in Electrocardiography: Source of Error in the Interpretation of the ST Segment
Authors: Buendía-Fuentes F. , Arnau-Vives M. A. , Arnau-Vives A. , Jiménez-Jiménez Y. , Rueda-Soriano J. , Zorio-Grima E. , Osa-Sáez A. , Martínez-Dolz L. V. , Almenar-Bonet L. , Palencia-Pérez M. A.
Published: July 2012

Introduction. Artifactual variations in the ST segment may lead to confusion with acute coronary syndromes. Objective. To evaluate how the technical characteristics of the recording mode may distort the ST segment. Material and Method. We made a series of electrocardiograms using different filter configurations in 45 asymptomatic patients. A spectral analysis of the electrocardiograms was made by discrete Fourier transforms, and an accurate recomposition of the ECG signal was obtained from the addition of successive harmonics. Digital high-pass filters of 0.05 and 0.5 Hz were used, and the resulting shapes were compared with the originals. Results. In 42 patients (93%) clinically significant alterations in ST segment level were detected. These changes were only seen in “real time mode” with high-pass filter of 0.5 Hz. Conclusions. Interpretation of the ST segment in “real time mode” should only be carried out using high-pass filters of 0.05 Hz.
Bioelectrical Signals as Emerging Biometrics: Issues and Challenges
Authors: Singh Yogendra Narain , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Ray Amit Kumar
Published: July 2012

This paper presents the effectiveness of bioelectrical signals such as the electrocardiogram (ECG) and the electroencephalogram (EEG) for biometric applications. Studies show that the impulses of cardiac rhythm and electrical activity of the brain recorded in ECG and EEG, respectively; have unique features among individuals, therefore they can be suggested to be used as biometrics for identity verification. The favourable characteristics to use the ECG or EEG signals as biometric include universality, measurability, uniqueness and robustness. In addition, they have the inherent feature of vitality that signifies the life signs offering a strong protection against spoof attacks. Unlike conventional biometrics, the ECG or EEG is highly confidential and secure to an individual which is difficult to be forged. We present a review of methods used for the ECG and EEG as biometrics for individual authentication and compare their performance on the datasets and test conditions they have used. We illustrate the challenges involved in using the ECG or EEG as biometric primarily due to the presence of drastic acquisition variations and the lack of standardization of signal features. In order to determine the large-scale performance, individuality of the ECG or EEG is another challenge that remains to be addressed.
Area Efficient, High Speed EBCOT Architecture for Digital Cinema
Authors: Sarawadekar Kishor , Banerjee Swapna
Published: July 2012

Embedded block coding with optimised truncation (EBCOT) is a key algorithm in digital cinema (DC) distribution system. Though several high speed EBCOT architectures exist, all are not capable of meeting the DC specifications. To meet this challenge, the relationship between contents of a code block (CB) and context generation is studied. Our study reveals that it is difficult to predict number of contexts generated in a bit plane. Even the nature of number of contexts produced varies from CB to CB. In such a situation, it is difficult to ensure the frame rate requirement of DC. To avoid this uncertainty, a pass parallel, concurrent sample coding EBCOT architecture is proposed in this paper. It is capable of encoding one bit plane in 288 clock cycles under any circumstances. This design is prototyped on XC4VLX80-12 FPGA with multiple clock domains. After synthesizing, the bit plane coder (BPC) and MQ coder operate at 450 MHz and 123 MHz, respectively. In order to maintain synchronism among different clock domains, the BPC and MQ coder units are operated at 432 MHz and 108 MHz, respectively. This entails that the proposed design is capable of processing size 57 DC frames in a second.
Effect of Lime and Farmyard Manure on the Concentration of Cadmium in Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica)
Authors: Chandra Shaha Subash , Kashem Md. Abul , Osman Khan Towhid
Published: July 2012

An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of lime and farmyard manure on the concentration of cadmium in water spinach. Water spinach (Ipomoea aquaticacv. Kankon) was grown in sandy loam soil spiked with 5 mg Cd with lime (L) and farmyard manure (M) amendments. The treatments consisted of control, four levels of L (5, 10, 15, and 20 t ), M (5, 10, 15, and 20 t ), and their combinations (55, 1010, 1515, and 2020 t ). Growth parameters of water spinach increased significantly with the addition of lime and farmyard manure in the soil. Lime addition to soil decreased Cd concentration in both shoot and root of water spinach. In control (00), Cd concentration was 62.67 mg  in shoot, and 135.5 mg  in root. Cadmium concentration decreased by 72, 15, and 66% over the control in shoot and 82, 28, and 76% in the roots correspondingly with the highest rate of lime (20 t ), manure (20 t ), and lime plus manure combinations (20 t  20 t ). The results imply that 5 to 10 t  lime could be used in Cd-contaminated soils to reduce Cd uptake by agricultural crops.
Assessing Modeled CO2 Retention and Rebreathing of a Facemask Designed for Efficient Delivery of Aerosols to Infants
Authors: Mundt Christian , Sventitskiy Alexander , Cehelsky Jeffrey E. , Patters Andrea B. , Tservistas Markus , Hahn Michael C. , Juhl Gerd , DeVincenzo John P.
Published: July 2012

Background. New aerosol drugs for infants may require more efficient delivery systems, including face masks. Maximizing delivery efficiency requires tight-fitting masks with minimal internal mask volumes, which could cause carbon dioxide (CO2) retention. An RNA-interference-based antiviral for treatment of respiratory syncytial virus in populations that may include young children is designed for aerosol administration. CO2 accumulation within inhalation face masks has not been evaluated. Methods. We simulated airflow and CO2 concentrations accumulating over time within a new facemask designed for infants and young children (PARI SMARTMASK® Baby). A one-dimensional model was first examined, followed by 3-dimensional unsteady computational fluid dynamics analyses. Normal infant breathing patterns and respiratory distress were simulated. Results. The maximum average modeled CO2 concentration within the mask reached steady state (3.2% and 3% for normal and distressed breathing patterns resp.) after approximately the 5th respiratory cycle. After steady state, the mean CO2 concentration inspired into the nostril was 2.24% and 2.26% for normal and distressed breathing patterns, respectively. Conclusion. The mask is predicted to cause minimal CO2 retention and rebreathing. Infants with normal and distressed breathing should tolerate the mask intermittently delivering aerosols over brief time frames.
Functional Abdominal Bloating with Distention
Authors: Sullivan Stephen Norman
Published: July 2012

Ten to 25% of healthy persons experience bloating. It is particularly common in persons with the irritable bowel syndrome and constipation. While the cause of bloating remains unknown old explanations such as a excessive intestinal gas, exaggerated lumbar lordosis and psychiatric problems have been disproved. New suggestions include recent weight gain, weak or inappropriately relaxed abdominal muscles, an inappropriately contracted diaphragm and retained fluid in loops of distal small bowel. No treatment is of unequivocal benefit but a low FODMAPs diet, probiotics and the non-absorbable antibiotic rifaximin offer some hope. Treatment by weight loss, abdominal exercise, prokinetics and girdles need more study.
Acceptable Morita Contexts for Semigroups
Authors: Laan Valdis
Published: July 2012

This short note deals with Morita equivalence of (arbitrary) semigroups. We give a necessary and sufficient condition for a Morita context containing two semigroups S and T to induce an equivalence between the category of closed right S-acts and the category of closed right T-acts.
Existence Results for the p(x)-Laplacian with Nonlinear Boundary Condition
Authors: Wei Zhiqiang , Chen Zigao
Published: July 2012

By using the variational method, under appropriate assumptions on the perturbation
terms

such that the associated functional satisfies the global minimizer
condition and the fountain theorem, respectively, the existence and multiple results for the
-Laplacian with nonlinear boundary condition in bounded domain Ω were studied. The
discussion is based on variable exponent Lebesgue and Sobolev spaces.
Healthy Eating Vital Sign: A New Assessment Tool for Eating Behaviors
Authors: Greenwood Jessica L. J. , Lin Junji , Arguello Danita , Ball Trever , Shaw Janet M.
Published: July 2012

Introduction. Most dietary questionnaires are not created for use in a clinical setting for an adult health exam. We created the Healthy Eating Vital Sign (HEVS) to assess eating behaviors associated with excess weight. This study investigated the validity and reliability of the HEVS. Methods. Using a cross-sectional study design, participants responded to the HEVS and the Block Food Frequency Questionnaire (BFFQ). We analyzed the data descriptively, and, with Pearson’s correlation and Cronbach coefficient alpha. Results. We found moderate correlation (rho>0.3) between multiple items of the HEVS and BFFQ. The Cronbach's alpha was 0.49. Conclusion. Our results support the criterion validity and internal reliability of the HEVS as compared to the BFFQ. The HEVS can help launch a dialogue between patients and providers to monitor and potentially manage dietary behaviors associated with many chronic health conditions, including obesity.
Using a Socioecological Framework to Understand the Career Choices of Single- and Double-Degree Nursing Students and Double-Degree Graduates
Authors: Hickey Noelene , Harrison Linda , Sumsion Jennifer
Published: July 2012

Untested changes in nursing education in Australia, such as the introduction of double degrees in nursing, necessitate a new research approach to study nursing career pathways. A review of the literature on past and present career choice theories demonstrates these are inadequate to gain an understanding of contemporary nursing students’ career choices. With the present worldwide shortage of nurses, an understanding of career choice becomes a critical component of recruitment and retention strategies. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how an ecological system approach based on Bronfenbrenner’s theory of human development can be used to understand and examine the influences affecting nursing students’ and graduates’ career development and career choices. Bronfenbrenner’s socioecological model was adapted to propose a new Nursing Career Development Framework as a way of conceptualizing the career development of nursing students undertaking traditional bachelor of nursing and nontraditional double-degree nursing programs. This Framework is then applied to a study of undergraduate nurses’ career decision making, using a sequential explanatory mixed method study. The paper demonstrates the relevance of this approach for addressing challenges associated with nursing recruitment, education, and career choice.
Gentle Human Touch and Yakson: The Effect on Preterm's Behavioral Reactions
Authors: Bahman Bijari Bahare , Iranmanesh Sedigheh , Eshghi Fateme , Baneshi Mohammad Reza
Published: July 2012

Objective. Touch is one of the first strong positive senses that develop in neonate. Therapeutic touch could be considered as a complementary treatment in Neonate intensive care units (NICU).Methods. This quasi-experimental study was conducted to compare the effect of Yakson and GHT on behavioral reaction of preterm infants hospitalized in NICU in south-east of Iran. 90 preterm infants participated in this study. They are randomly divided into 3 groups: (1) Yakson group, , (2) GHT group, , (3) control group, . Each infant received the GHT and Yakson interventions twice a day for 5 days. Each session lasted 15 minutes. The control group received routine nursing care.Results. In interventional group, an increase was found in sleep state score after the Yakson and GHT intervention. Their awake and fussy states' scores decreased after both interventions. No significant difference was found between Yakson and GHT group in their behavioral state scores.Conclusion. The findings suggest that Yakson and GHT had soothing and calming effect on preterm infants and could be beneficial in nursing interventions.
Do the Indonesians Receive the Dental Care Treatment They Need? A Secondary Analysis on Self-Perceived Dental Care Need
Authors: Maharani Diah Ayu
Published: July 2012

Increasing access for citizens to health services, including dental care, is one of the primary targets of the Indonesian Ministry of Health. To assess progress toward this goal, we sought to describe the magnitude of unmet needs for dental care among Indonesians. Secondary data of nationally representative surveys conducted from 2003 to 2007 were analysed to describe the associations between unmet needs for dental care in different demographic groups. In average, 2.28% of the Indonesian population reported perceiving need for dental care and 0.74% reported utilizing dental care. The average of unmet need was 72.04%. Logistic regression analysis indicated that respondents who lived in rural areas, who were uninsured, had higher odds ratios in reporting unmet dental care needs. Perceived need for and utilization of dental care among Indonesians was found to be low. Moreover, the unmet need for dental care is relatively high.
A Hierarchical Algorithm for Multiphase Texture Image Segmentation
Authors: Zheng Yalin , Chen Ke
Published: July 2012

Image segmentation is a fundamental task for many computer vision and image processing applications. There exist many useful and reliable models for two-phase segmentation. However, the multiphase segmentation is a more challenging problem than two phase segmentation, mainly due to strong dependence on initialization of solutions. In this paper we propose a reliable hierarchical algorithm for multiphase texture image segmentation by making full use of two-phase texture models in a fuzzy
membership framework. Application of the new algorithm to the synthetic and real medical imaging data demonstrate more satisfactory results than existing algorithms.
Doripenem Dosing Recommendations for Critically Ill Patients Receiving Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Samtani Mahesh N. , Vaccaro Nicole , Cirillo Iolanda , Matzke Gary R. , Redman Rebecca , Nandy Partha
Published: July 2012

Doripenem dosing regimens for patients receiving continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) and continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) were devised based on an established efficacy criterion (free plasma doripenem concentrations above the minimum inhibitory concentration [] of 1 mg/L for ≥35% of the dosing interval) while maintaining exposure below that with the highest studied dose of 1000 mg infused over 1 hour every 8 hours in healthy subjects. Simulations were utilized to assure ≥90% probability of achieving the efficacy criterion with the recommended doripenem regimens. Inflated intersubject variability of 40% (coefficient of variation) was used for pharmacokinetic parameters (representative of clinical variation) and nonrenal clearance was doubled to account for potential changes with acute renal insufficiency. Results indicate that a reduction in doripenem dose will be needed for critically ill patients receiving CVVH or CVVHDF. This work was conducted to fulfill a health authority request and resulted in the addition of dosing recommendations to the Doribax Summary of Product Characteristics.
Variations in Draining Patterns of Right Pulmonary Veins at the Hilum and an Anatomical Classification
Authors: Rajeshwari M. S. , Ranganath Priya
Published: July 2012

Pulmonary veins carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium. Variations are quite common in the pattern of drainage. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the incidence of different draining patterns of the right pulmonary veins at the hilum by dissecting the human fixed cadaveric lungs. Clinically, pulmonary veins have been demonstrated to often play an important role in generating atrial fibrillation. Hence, it is important to look into the anatomy of the veins during MR imaging and CT angiography. In 53.8% of cases, the right superior lobar vein and right middle lobar vein were found to be united together to form the right superior pulmonary vein. In contrast to this, in 11.53% of cases, right middle lobar vein united with the right inferior lobar vein to form the right inferior pulmonary vein, while in 26.9% of cases, the right superior lobar vein, right middle lobar vein, and right inferior lobar vein drained separately.
Unsteady/Steady Free Convective Couette Flow of Reactive Viscous Fluid in a Vertical Channel Formed by Two Vertical Porous Plates
Authors: Jha Basant K. , Samaila Ahmad K. , Ajibade Abiodun O.
Published: July 2012

This paper presents unsteady as well as steady-state free convection Couette flow of reactive viscous fluid in a vertical channel formed by two infinite vertical parallel porous plates. The motion of the fluid is induced due to free convection caused by the reactive nature of viscous fluid as well as the impulsive motion of one of the porous plates. The Boussinesq assumption is applied, and the nonlinear governing equations of motion and energy are developed. The time-dependent problem is solved using implicit finite difference method, and steady-state problem is solved by applying regular perturbation technique. During the course of computation, an excellent agreement was found between the well-known steady-state solutions and transient solutions at large value of time.
Young Stroke Mortality in Fiji Islands: An Economic Analysis of National Human Capital Resource Loss
Authors: Maharaj Jagdish C. , Reddy Mahendra
Published: July 2012

Introduction. The objective of this study was to perform an economic analysis in terms of annual national human capital resource loss from young stroke mortality in Fiji. The official retirement age is 55 years in Fiji. Method. Stroke mortality data, for working-age group 15–55 years, obtained from the Ministry of Health and per capita national income figure for the same year was utilised to calculate the total output loss for the economy. The formula of output loss from the economy was used. Results. There were 273 stroke deaths of which 53.8% were of working-age group. The annual national human capital loss from stroke mortality for Fiji for the year was calculated to be F$8.85 million (US$5.31 million). The highest percentage loss from stroke mortality was from persons in their forties; that is, they still had more then 10 years to retirement. Discussion. This loss equates to one percent of national government revenue and 9.7% of Ministry of Health budget for the same year. The annual national human capital loss from stroke mortality is an important dimension in the overall economic equation of total economic burden of stroke. Conclusion. This study demonstrates a high economic burden for Fiji from stroke mortality of young adults in terms of annual national human capital loss.
Determination of Hesperetin in Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae and Human Serum Using Flow Injection Chemiluminescence
Authors: Wang Jiajia , Tan Xijuan , Li Xin , Liu Jiangman , Song Zhenghua
Published: July 2012

A sensitive chemiluminescence (CL) method for the determination of hesperetin at nanogram levels was first presented. It was based on the inhibitory effect of hesperetin on luminol-dissolved oxygen CL reaction in a flow injection system. The decrements of CL intensity were logarithm over the concentrations of hesperetin in a range of 0.5 to 1000 ng mL−1, with a detection limit of 0.2 ng mL−1 (3σ)
and the relative standard deviations lower than 2.1%. At a flow rate of 2.0 mL min−1, the whole determining performance including sampling and washing could be accomplished in 30 s, giving a sampling efficiency of 120 h−1. The proposed method was applied successfully to the direct hesperetin determination in human serum with recoveries from 97.0 to 106.6%, and indirect hesperidin quantification in 2.5 g pericarpium citri reticulatae showing that the content is 8.1±0.2%. The possible CL mechanism of luminol-dissolved oxygen-hesperetin reaction was also discussed in detail.
Virtual Tutoring and Counseling in Schools
Authors: Vázquez Cano Esteban , López Meneses Eloy
Published: July 2012

This paper is a report on the findings of a study conducted on ten primary and secondary schools in Spain where we evaluated how digital tools can contribute to reinforce and develop new ways of tutoring and counseling. The research shows how many counseling functions can be highly enhanced with the use of virtual tools, that is, academic planning, career postsecondary planning, tutoring, counseling, and personal-social development. One of the most important school counselor’s roles is to coordinate resources and services to best assist students and families in fulfilling their needs. Virtual tutoring and counseling through the development of virtual communities are key strategies to better connect with groups—students, parents, administrators, teachers, and others—as part of comprehensive developmental tutoring and counseling programs. Indeed, effective school counseling programs are a collaborative effort among many important groups of people whom digital tools help significantly.