bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated with Bone Level Alterations at Implants with Inner-Cone Connection and Platform Switching
Authors: Bassetti Renzo , Reischel Simone , Öztürk Sükran , Bassetti Mario , Mericske-Stern Regina , Enkling Norbert
Published: February 2014

Purpose. This retrospective cohort study evaluated factors for peri-implant bone level changes (ΔIBL) associated with an implant type with inner-cone implant-abutment connection, rough neck surface, and platform switching (AT). Materials and Methods. All AT placed at the Department of Prosthodontics of the University of Bern between January 2004 and December 2005 were included in this study. All implants were examined by single radiographs using the parallel technique taken at surgery (T0) and obtained at least 6 months after surgery (T1). Possible influencing factors were analysed first using t-test (normal distribution) or the nonparametric Wilcoxon test (not normal distribution), and then a mixed model q variance analysis was performed. Results. 43 patients were treated with 109 implants. Five implants in 2 patients failed (survival rate: 95.4%). Mean ΔIBL in group 1 (T1: 6–12 months after surgery) was -0.65±0.82 mm and -0.69±0.82 mm in group 2 (T1: >12 months after surgery) (P=0.801). Greater implant insertion depth in diameter 3.5 mm implants might be associated with increased ΔIBL (P<0.05). In the anterior region, the bone alteration was more pronounced (P<0.01). Conclusions. ΔIBL values indicated that the implant system used in this study fulfilled implant success criteria.
A New Global Optimization Algorithm for Solving a Class of Nonconvex Programming Problems
Authors: Zhou Xue-Gang , Cao Bing-Yuan
Published: February 2014

A new two-part parametric linearization technique is proposed globally to a class of nonconvex programming problems (NPP). Firstly, a two-part parametric linearization method is adopted to construct the underestimator of objective and constraint functions, by utilizing a transformation and a parametric linear upper bounding function (LUBF) and a linear lower bounding function (LLBF) of a natural logarithm function and an exponential function witheas the base, respectively. Then, a sequence of relaxation lower linear programming problems, which are embedded in a branch-and-bound algorithm, are derived in an initial nonconvex programming problem. The proposed algorithm is converged to global optimal solution by means of a subsequent solution to a series of linear programming problems. Finally, some examples are given to illustrate the feasibility of the presented algorithm.
Hantaan Virus Infection Induces CXCL10 Expression through TLR3, RIG-I, and MDA-5 Pathways Correlated with the Disease Severity
Authors: Zhang Yusi , Liu Bei , Ma Ying , Yi Jing , Zhang Chunmei , Zhang Yun , Xu Zhuwei , Wang Jiuping , Yang Kun , Yang Angang , Zhuang Ran , Jin Boquan
Published: February 2014

Hantaan virus (HTNV) is a major agent causing hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). Although the pathogenesis of HFRS is unclear, some reports have suggested that the abundant production of proinflammatory cytokines and uncontrolled inflammatory responses may contribute to the development of HFRS. CXCL10 is one of these cytokines and is found to be involved in the pathogenesis of many virus infectious diseases. However, the role of CXCL10 in the pathogenesis of HFRS and the molecular regulation mechanism of CXCL10 in HTNV infection remain unknown. In this study, we report that CXCL10 expresses highly in the HFRS patients’ sera and the elevated CXCL10 is positively correlated with the severity of HFRS. We find that HTNV, a single-strand RNA virus, can act as a double-strand RNA to activate the TLR3, RIG-I, and MDA-5 signaling pathways. Through the downstream transcription factors of these pathways, NF-κB and IRF7, which bind directly to the CXCL10’s promoter, the expression of CXCL10 is increased. Our results may help to better understand the role of CXCL10 in the development of HFRS and may provide some novel insights into the immune response of HTNV infection.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Hydrogen on Alkali-Earth Metal Cations Exchanged X Zeolites
Authors: Xiaoming Du
Published: February 2014

The self-diffusion of hydrogen in Ca2+-, Mg2+- and Ba2+-exchanged X zeolites (Mg46X, Ca46X, and Ba46X) has been studied by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations for various temperatures and loadings. The results indicate that in the temperature range of 77–298 K and the loading range of 1–80 molecules/cell, the self-diffusion coefficients are found to range from1.2×10-9 m2·s−1to2.3×10-7 m2·s−1which are in good agreement with the experimental values from the quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) and pulse field gradients nuclear magnetic resonance (PFG NMR) measurements. The self-diffusion coefficients decrease with loading due to packing of sorbate-sorbate molecules which causes frequent collusion among hydrogen molecules in pores and increases with increasing temperature because increasing the kinetic energy of the gas molecules enlarges the mean free path of gas molecule. The mechanism of diffusion of hydrogen molecules in these zeolites is transition diffusion. Knudsen diffusion occurs at low loading and the molecular bulk diffusion occurs at higher loading. For given temperature and loading, the self-diffusion coefficients decrease in the orderBa46X<Mg46X<Ca46X, due to the different sizes and locations of the divalent cations. Moreover, the effect of concentration of molecular hydrogen on self-diffusion coefficient also is analyzed using radial distribution function (RDF).
New Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease, Kamikihito, Reverses Amyloid‐β‐Induced Progression of Tau Phosphorylation and Axonal Atrophy
Authors: Watari Hidetoshi , Shimada Yutaka , Tohda Chihiro
Published: February 2014

Aims. We previously reported that kamikihito (KKT), a traditional Japanese medicine, improved memory impairment and reversed the degeneration of axons in the 5XFAD mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the mechanism underlying the effects of KKT remained unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mechanism by which KKT reverses the progression of axonal degeneration. Methods. Primary cultured cortical neurons were treated with amyloid beta (Aβ) fragment comprising amino acid residues (25–35) (10 μM) in an in vitro AD model. KKT (10 μg/mL) was administered to the cells before or after Aβ treatment. The effects of KKT on Aβ‐induced tau phosphorylation, axonal atrophy, and protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) activity were investigated. We also performed an in vivo assay in which KKT (500 mg/kg/day) was administered to 5XFAD mice once a day for 15 days. Cerebral cortex homogenates were used to measure PP2A activity. Results. KKT improved Aβ‐induced tau phosphorylation and axonal atrophy after they had already progressed. In addition, KKT increased PP2A activity in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions. KKT reversed the progression of Aβ‐induced axonal degeneration. KKT reversed axonal degeneration at least in part through its role as an exogenous PP2A stimulator.
Eigenvalues of a Class of Singular Boundary Value Problems of Impulsive Differential Equations in Banach Spaces
Authors: Zhao Daliang , Liu Yansheng
Published: February 2014

This paper is devoted to investigating the eigenvalue problems of a class of nonlinear impulsive singular boundary value problem in Banach spaces:μx′′+f(t,x)=0,t∈(0,1),t≠ti;Δx|t=ti=αix(ti-0),i=1,2,…,k;ax(0)-bx′(0)=θ;cx(1)+dx′(1)=θ,whereθdenotes the zero element of Banach space,Δx|t=ti=x(ti+0)-x(ti-0),αi>-1,a,b,c,d∈R+,γ=ac+ad+bc>0,μis a parameter, andf(t,x)may be singular att=0,1andx=θ. The arguments are mainly based upon the theory of fixed point index, measure of noncompactness, and the special cone, which is constructed to overcome the singularity.
Histological Changes of the Mandibular Condyle in the Human Fetus at Early Stages of Gestation
Authors: Molina Wilfredo
Published: February 2014

Histochemical studies on the mandibular condyle of the human fetus at gestational ages 12, 14, and 16 weeks were performed. Methods. Histological sections were stained with Schiff’s periodic reaction for glicoproteins, hematoxiline eosine detects mesenchymal tissue and trichhromic stain for collagen. The ANOVA one-way test was used to evaluate the differences during stained zones in the three fetus groups. Results. The percentage of glycoproteins and mesenchymal tissue was denser at 12 weeks. This percentage decreases at 14 weeks and is less at 16 weeks. An increase in the amount of collagen in the studied weeks was observed. The percentages of glycoproteins, mesenchymal tissue, and collagen were significantly different; f = 4373, 9624.8, and 3674, P<0.0001 for the three studied groups. Conclusion. The endochondral bone formation of the mandibular condyle includes modifications of the quantities of glycoproteins, mesenchymal tissue, and collagen.
Impacts of Temperature on the Stability of Tropical Plant Pigments as Sensitizers for Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Yusoff Aiman , Kumara N. T. R. N. , Lim Andery , Ekanayake Piyasiri , Tennakoon Kushan U.
Published: February 2014

Natural dyes have become a viable alternative to expensive organic sensitizers because of their low cost of production, abundance in supply, and eco-friendliness. We evaluated 35 native plants containing anthocyanin pigments as potential sensitizers for DSSCs. Melastoma malabathricum (fruit pulp), Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (flower), and Codiaeum variegatum (leaves) showed the highest absorption peaks. Hence, these were used to determine anthocyanin content and stability based on the impacts of storage temperature. Melastoma malabathricum fruit pulp exhibited the highest anthocyanin content (8.43 mg/L) followed by H. rosa-sinensis and C. variegatum. Significantly greater stability of extracted anthocyanin pigment was shown when all three were stored at 4∘C. The highest half-life periods for anthocyanin in M. malabathricum, H. rosa-sinensis, and C. variegatum were 541, 571, and 353 days at 4∘C. These were rapidly decreased to 111, 220, and 254 days when stored at 25∘C. The photovoltaic efficiency of M. malabathricum was1.16%, while the values for H. rosa-sinensis and C. variegatum were 0.16% and 1.08%, respectively. Hence, M. malabathricum fruit pulp extracts can be further evaluated as an alternative natural sensitizer for DSSCs.
H∞ Controller Design for Asynchronous Multirate Sampled‐Data Systems
Authors: Sun Xiaoqiang , Mao Weijie
Published: February 2014

This paper considers the analysis and synthesis of a linear discrete asynchronous multirate sampled‐data system. An H∞ controller based on an observer is proposed, which guarantees the stability of the closed system and makes the H∞ norm of the closed system less than a given attenuation level. To improve the performance further, a tradeoff strategy is applied. That is, the exogenous signals sampled at different rates are lifted to an appropriate signal rate, while the endogenous signals are not lifted for avoiding the causal constraint and the dimension multiplied again. The controller is obtained by solving the corresponding matrix inequality, which can be calculated by Matlab. Finally, an example is presented to demonstrate the validity of these methods.
Location-Based Distributed Group Key Agreement Scheme for Vehicular Ad Hoc Network
Authors: Wang Eric Ke , Ye Yuming , Xu Xiaofei
Published: February 2014

With the rapid development of vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), security issues are concerned. Among various security measures, secure group key agreement for VANETs attracts more and more attention. Researchers have studied generic group key agreement schemes for a long while; however, most of them are not designed for VANETs. Considering energy-constrained and fast moving features in vehicular ad hoc network, we propose a new location-based distributed group key agreement LDGKA scheme for VANETs. We adopt a hybrid approach in which members in the vehicular ad hoc network form various logic groups in the same region. Within each group, virtual key tree model is employed so that the rekeying operation can be efficiently carried out when members leave or join. It only requires to rebuild [Formula: see text] keys when one node leaves or joins. Moreover, we adopt one-way key derivation to rebuild keys in order to reduce communication overhead of distributing new keys. We also design a protocol for establishing the secure temporary channel dynamically for the nodes that are located in different regions.
Secure Wireless Communications via Cooperative Transmitting
Authors: Stojanovski Toni Draganov , Marina Ninoslav
Published: February 2014

Information-theoretic secrecy is combined with cryptographic secrecy to create a secret-key exchange protocol for wireless networks. A network of transmitters, which already have cryptographically secured channels between them, cooperate to exchange a secret key with a new receiver at a random location, in the presence of passive eavesdroppers at unknown locations. Two spatial point processes, homogeneous Poisson process and independent uniformly distributed points, are used for the spatial distributions of transmitters and eavesdroppers. We analyse the impact of the number of cooperating transmitters and the number of eavesdroppers on the area fraction where secure communication is possible. Upper bounds on the probability of existence of positive secrecy between the cooperating transmitters and the receiver are derived. The closeness of the upper bounds to the real value is then estimated by means of numerical simulations. Simulations also indicate that a deterministic spatial distribution for the transmitters, for example, hexagonal and square lattices, increases the probability of existence of positive secrecy capacity compared to the random spatial distributions. For the same number of friendly nodes, cooperative transmitting provides a dramatically larger secrecy region than cooperative jamming and cooperative relaying.
Subacromial Impingement Syndrome Caused by a Voluminous Subdeltoid Lipoma
Authors: Murray Jean-Christophe , Pelet Stéphane
Published: February 2014

Subacromial impingement syndrome is a clinical diagnosis encompassing a spectrum of possible etiologies, including subacromial bursitis, rotator cuff tendinopathy, and partial- to full-thickness rotator cuff tears. This report presents an unusual case of subdeltoid lipoma causing extrinsic compression and subacromial impingement syndrome. The patient, a 60-year-old man, presented to our institution with a few years' history of nontraumatic, posteriorly localized throbbing pain in his right shoulder. Despite a well-followed 6-months physiotherapy program, the patient was still suffering from his right shoulder. The MRI scan revealed a well-circumscribed 6 cm × 2 cm × 5 cm homogenous lesion compatible with a subdeltoid intermuscular lipoma. The mass was excised en bloc, and subsequent histopathologic examination confirmed a benign lipoma. At 6-months follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic with a complete return to his activities. Based on this case and a review of the literature, a subacromial lipoma has to be included in the differential diagnosis of a subacromial impingement syndrome refractory to nonoperative treatment. Complementary imaging modalities are required only after a failed conservative management to assess the exact etiology and successfully direct the surgical treatment.
Oxidative Stress, Hypoxia, and Autophagy in the Neovascular Processes of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Blasiak Janusz , Petrovski Goran , Veréb Zoltán , Facskó Andrea , Kaarniranta Kai
Published: February 2014

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe and irreversible loss of vision in the elderly in developed countries. AMD is a complex chronic neurodegenerative disease associated with many environmental, lifestyle, and genetic factors. Oxidative stress and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) seem to play a pivotal role in AMD pathogenesis. It is known that the macula receives the highest blood flow of any tissue in the body when related to size, and anything that can reduce the rich blood supply can cause hypoxia, malfunction, or disease. Oxidative stress can affect both the lipid rich retinal outer segment structure and the light processing in the macula. The response to oxidative stress involves several cellular defense reactions, for example, increases in antioxidant production and proteolysis of damaged proteins. The imbalance between production of damaged cellular components and degradation leads to the accumulation of detrimental products, for example, intracellular lipofuscin and extracellular drusen. Autophagy is a central lysosomal clearance system that may play an important role in AMD development. There are many anatomical changes in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), Bruch’s membrane, and choriocapillaris in response to chronic oxidative stress, hypoxia, and disturbed autophagy and these are estimated to be crucial components in the pathology of neovascular processes in AMD.
Approach for Text Classification Based on the Similarity Measurement between Normal Cloud Models
Authors: Dai Jin , Liu Xin
Published: February 2014

The similarity between objects is the core research area of data mining. In order to reduce the interference of the uncertainty of nature language, a similarity measurement between normal cloud models is adopted to text classification research. On this basis, a novel text classifier based on cloud concept jumping up (CCJU-TC) is proposed. It can efficiently accomplish conversion between qualitative concept and quantitative data. Through the conversion from text set to text information table based on VSM model, the text qualitative concept, which is extraction from the same category, is jumping up as a whole category concept. According to the cloud similarity between the test text and each category concept, the test text is assigned to the most similar category. By the comparison among different text classifiers in different feature selection set, it fully proves that not only does CCJU-TC have a strong ability to adapt to the different text features, but also the classification performance is also better than the traditional classifiers.
Nonreplicated Static Data Allocation in Distributed Databases Using Biogeography-Based Optimization
Authors: Singh Arjan , Kahlon Karanjeet Singh , Virk Rajinder Singh
Published: February 2014

Allocation of data is one of the key design issues of distributed database. A major cost of query execution in a distributed database system is the data transfer cost from one site to another site. The allocation of fragments among the different sites over the network plays an important role in performance of the distributed database system. The main objective of a data allocation in distributed database is to place the data fragments at different sites in such a way, so that the total data transfer cost can be minimized while executing a set of queries. In this paper, a new biogeography-based optimization (BBO) algorithm has been used to allocate the fragments during the design of distributed database system. The goal of this paper is to design a fragments allocation algorithm, so that the total data transmission cost can be minimized. To show the performance of proposed algorithm, results of biogeography-based optimization algorithm for data allocation are compared with genetic algorithm.
On Software Defect Prediction Using Machine Learning
Authors: Ren Jinsheng , Qin Ke , Ma Ying , Luo Guangchun
Published: February 2014

This paper mainly deals with how kernel method can be used for software defect prediction, since the class imbalance can greatly reduce the performance of defect prediction. In this paper, two classifiers, namely, the asymmetric kernel partial least squares classifier (AKPLSC) and asymmetric kernel principal component analysis classifier (AKPCAC), are proposed for solving the class imbalance problem. This is achieved by applying kernel function to the asymmetric partial least squares classifier and asymmetric principal component analysis classifier, respectively. The kernel function used for the two classifiers is Gaussian function. Experiments conducted on NASA and SOFTLAB data sets usingF-measure, Friedman’s test, and Tukey’s test confirm the validity of our methods.
Laparoscopic Repair of a Ureteric Sciatic Hernia: Report of a Case
Authors: Tsuzaka Yasuo , Saisu Kazuhiro , Tsuru Nobuo , Homma Yukio , Ihara Hiroyuki
Published: February 2014

Ureteric sciatic hernias are extremely rare. Here we report a case of a 78-year-old woman presented with colicky left abdominal pain. Computed tomography revealed a ureteric sciatic hernia, and drip infusion pyelography revealed dilated left ureter with herniation of the ureter into the sciatic foramen. The hernia was successfully repaired laparoscopically. We have described the diagnosis and management of the patient, followed by a review of the literature on sciatic hernias.
A Case of Basal Cell Adenoma of the Upper Lip
Authors: Kudoh Masanori , Harada Hiroyuki , Sato Yuriko , Omura Ken , Ishii Yoshimasa
Published: February 2014

Basal cell adenoma is a rare type of benign salivary gland tumor found most commonly in the parotid gland. We present a rare case of basal cell adenoma arising in the minor salivary gland of the upper lip. The patient was a 59-year-old Japanese man who visited our department in December 2012 with a chief complaint of a mass in the upper lip, which had increased in size over several years. A mobile, elastic, and relatively soft mass without tenderness was palpable in the upper lip region. The mucosa of the upper lip covering the mass was normal. Tumor extirpation was performed under local anesthesia. Histologically, the tumor had a capsule and was composed of islands of relatively uniform, monotonous cells. Immunohistochemically, the inner tumor comprised tubuloductal structures that showed strong staining for CK7, while the outer tumor showed weak staining for CK7. The outer tumor cells also stained positively for CD10 and p63. The MIB-1 (Ki-67) labeling index was extremely low. Basal cell adenoma was diagnosed based on these results. The postoperative course was uneventful 12 months after surgery and there has been no recurrence.
Ubiquinol Improves Symptoms in Children with Autism
Authors: Gvozdjáková Anna , Kucharská Jarmila , Ostatníková Daniela , Babinská Katarína , Nakládal Dalibor , Crane Fred L.
Published: February 2014

Background. Autism is a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders with manifestation within 3 years after birth. Manifestations of autism include behavior problems (hyperactivity, toys destruction, self-harm, and agression) and sleep and eating disorders. Etiology of autism is poorly understood. Oxidative stress and antioxidants can participate in pathobiochemical mechanisms of autism.Methods. Twenty-four children, aged 3–6 years, with autism according to the DSM IV criteria and using CARS were included in the study. Concentrations ofCoQ10-TOTAL,γ- andα-tocopherol,β-carotene, and lipid peroxidation were determined in plasma before and after three months of supportive therapy with ubiquinol at a daily dose2×50 mg. Data on behavior of the children were collected from parents at the same time.Results. Ubiquinol supportive therapy improved symptoms in children with autism, as communication with parents (in12%), verbal communication (in21%), playing games of children (in42%), sleeping (in34%), and food rejection (in17%), withCoQ10-TOTALplasma level above2.5 μmol/L.Conclusions. Beneficial effect of ubiquinol in children with autism has been demonstrated for the first time. We assume that plasma concentration ofCoQ10-TOTALand lipid peroxidation could be used as relevant biomarkers of ubiquinol supportive therapy.
Seepage Characteristics Study on Power‐Law Fluid in Fractal Porous Media
Authors: Yun Meijuan
Published: February 2014

We present fractal models for the flow rate, velocity, effective viscosity, apparent viscosity, and effective permeability for power‐law fluid based on the fractal properties of porous media. The proposed expressions realize the quantitative description to the relation between the properties of the power‐law fluid and the parameters of the microstructure of the porous media. The model predictions are compared with related data and good agreement between them is found. The analytical expressions will contribute to the revealing of physical principles for the power‐law fluid flow in porous media.
Several New Third-Order and Fourth-Order Iterative Methods for Solving Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Singh Anuradha , Jaiswal J. P.
Published: February 2014

In order to find the zeros of nonlinear equations, in this paper, we propose a family of third-order and optimal fourth-order iterative methods. We have also obtained some particular cases of these methods. These methods are constructed through weight function concept. The multivariate case of these methods has also been discussed. The numerical results show that the proposed methods are more efficient than some existing third- and fourth-order methods.
HPLC Analysis of Water-Soluble Vitamins (B2, B3, B6, B12, and C) and Fat-Soluble Vitamins (E, K, D, A, andβ-Carotene) of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)
Authors: Sami Rokayya , Li Yang , Qi Baokun , Wang Shengnan , Zhang Qiaozhi , Han Feifei , Ma Ying , Jing Jing , Jiang Lianzhou
Published: February 2014

Okra is consumed as a vegetable by populations in Africa and Asia and particularly in Egypt. In this study, we investigated some nutritional components of okra grown in four different geographical locations of Egypt. A comparative analysis of water-soluble vitamins (B2, B3, B6, B12, and C) and fat-soluble vitamins (E, K, D, A, andβ-carotene) in okra pods was carried out. Results of principal component analysis (PCA) showed three clusters of varieties. The first cluster included the Dakahlia (D) and Kafr El-Sheikh (K) varieties. The second and the third clusters separated out the Suez (S) and Mansoura (M) varieties independently. The S pod showed the highest contents of vitamins B6 (49.81 μg/100 g) and E (1.47 mg/100 g) but contained the lowest contents of vitamins B3 (1.42 μg/100 g) and B12 (undetected). The K pod showed the lowest vitamin C content (11.60 mg/100 g). The M pod showed the highest contents of vitamins B3 (22.70 μg/100 g), B12 (91.20 μg/100 g), C (27.14 mg/100 g), and K (0.21 mg/100 g). The D pod showed the lowest contents of vitamins E (0.15 mg/100 g), K (0.05 mg/100 g), and B6 (11.50 μg/100 g). These findings could help develop meal planning at the community level by incorporating okra varieties with high vitamin content.
Damping Evaluation of Linseed Oil-Based Engineering Elastomers by Vibration Response Method
Authors: Das Rakesh , Kumar Rajesh , Kundu P. P.
Published: February 2014

A low cost experimental setup has been fabricated for evaluation of vibration damping properties of a variety of elastomers developed from linseed oil. Free and forced vibration principles were utilized in this experimental setup. Under forced vibration, the shear loss factor varies from 0.37 to 1.03 at 2nd bending vibration mode and 0.43 to 0.99 at 3rd bending vibration mode for different elastomers. The loss factor varies from 0.52 to 0.94 under free vibration. The loss factors determined by both forced and free vibration techniques are in good agreement with the loss factors obtained from dynamic mechanical analysis. The ultimate tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the elastomers vary from 0.37 to 3.71 MPa and 0.27 to 10.27 MPa, respectively, whereas these properties in compression are in the range of 3.1 to 72.9 MPa and 1.5 to 30.1 MPa, respectively. Thus, these elastomers are mechanically stable for vibration damping applications.
Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma Occurring 5 Years after Resection of a Primary Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: A Relevant Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Falkenstern-Ge R. F. , Wohlleber M. , Kimmich M. , Huettl K. , Friedel G. , Ott G. , Kohlhäufl M.
Published: February 2014

Ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreas is a lethal disease. Surgical extirpation only offers the slim chance for long-term survival in localized disease. We report on a 73 year old female patient who initially underwent successful resection of pancreatic adenocarcinoma in May 2005. She was treated with adjuvant chemotherapy with gemcitabine. In October 2010 the patient noticed increasing dyspnea with haemoptysis. She was soon referred to our center. After the diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma with widespread metastasis, she was treated with systemic chemotherapy. For a period of next three years, she was treated with different chemotherapy regimens due to repeated episodes of tumor progression. To the best of our knowledge after reviewing the literature, this case represents an unusually clinical course with metachronous pulmonary adenocarcinoma arising after treatment of a primary pancreatic cancer after a long latency period.
Medication Monitoring for People with Dementia in Care Homes: The Feasibility and Clinical Impact of Nurse-Led Monitoring
Authors: Jordan Sue , Gabe Marie , Newson Louise , Snelgrove Sherrill , Panes Gerwyn , Picek Aldo , Russell Ian T. , Dennis Michael
Published: February 2014

Objectives. People with dementia are susceptible to adverse effects of medicines. However, they are not always closely monitored. We explored (1) feasibility and (2) clinical impact of nurse-led medication monitoring.Design. Feasibility “before-and-after” intervention study.Setting. Three care homes in Wales.Participants. Eleven service users diagnosed with dementia, taking at least one antipsychotic, antidepressant, or antiepileptic medicine.Intervention. West Wales Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Profile for Mental Health Medicines.Outcome Measures. (1) Feasibility: recruitment, retention, and implementation. (2) Clinical impact: previously undocumented problems identified and ameliorated, as recorded in participants’ records before and after introduction of the profile, and one month later.Results. Nurses recruited and retained 11 of 29 eligible service users. The profile took 20–25 minutes to implement, caused no harm, and supplemented usual care. Initially, the profile identified previously undocumented problems for all participants (mean 12.7 (SD 4.7)). One month later, some problems had been ameliorated (mean 4.9 (3.6)). Clinical gains included new prescriptions to manage pain (2 participants), psoriasis (1), Parkinsonian symptoms (1), rash (1), dose reduction of benzodiazepines (1), new care plans for oral hygiene, skin problems, and constipation.Conclusions. Participants benefited from structured nurse-led medication monitoring. Clinical trials of our ADR Profile are feasible and necessary.
Effects of SCH-23390 in Combination with a Low Dose of 17β-Estradiol on Anxiety-Like Behavior in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Fedotova Julia
Published: February 2014

The aim of this study was to explore effects on anxiety-like behavior of D1dopamine receptor agonist, SKF-38393, and of D1dopamine receptor antagonist, SCH-23390, given alone or in combination with a low dose of 17β-estradiol (17β-E2) to ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Two weeks after surgery, OVX rats began 14 days of treatment with the vehicle, a low dose of 17β-E2(5.0 μg/rat, s.c.), SKF-38393 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.), SCH-23390 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.), SKF-38393 plus 17β-E2, or SCH-23390 plus 17β-E2. The animals were tested in the black and white model (BWM) and the open field test (OFT). SCH-23390 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) alone or in a combination with a low dose of 17β-E2(5.0 μg/rat, s.c.) resulted in anxiolytic-like effect in OVX rats in the BWM. Repeated treatment with SCH-23390 and 17β-E2profoundly increased anxiolytic-like effect of single substances exerted per se. Coadministration of SCH-23390 with 17β-E2increased frequency of rearing and grooming in OVX rats in OFT. SKF-38393 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) treatment failed to alter anxiety-like behavior in OVX rats in the BWM. The results of the present study suggest that 17β-E2and SCH-23390 interact to exert anxiolytic-like action and that each of these drugs can potentiate effects of each other.
Health-Related Quality of Life and Quality of Sexual Life in Obese Subjects
Authors: Poggiogalle Eleonora , Di Lazzaro Luca , Pinto Alessandro , Migliaccio Silvia , Lenzi Andrea , Donini Lorenzo M.
Published: February 2014

The increased prevalence of obesity represents, currently, one of the major public health issues, due to its consequences on physical and psychological health status as well as on the psychosocial functioning. As defined by the World Health Organization, sexual health is “a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality.” The aim of the present study was to explore the relationship between sexual life in obese subjects and quality of life, psychological status, and disability.Methods. 95 obese subjects were recruited from June 2012 to February 2013 and underwent physical examination and measures for the assessment of quality of life, sexual life, psychological status, and disability.Results. In obese subjects sexual life was related to gender, age, psychological status, disability, and quality of life.Conclusion. As obesity is a multifactorial disease, and is accompanied by multiple comorbidities, it is difficult to identify a single causative factor responsible for the impairment of sexual life in obese subjects; thus, a thorough, multidimensional evaluation including sexual function assessment should be performed in obese people.
A New Three‐Dimensional Indoor Positioning Mechanism Based on Wireless LAN
Authors: Cheng Jiujun , Cai Yueqiao , Zhang Qingyang , Cheng Junlu , Yan Chendan
Published: February 2014

The researches on two‐dimensional indoor positioning based on wireless LAN and the location fingerprint methods have become mature, but in the actual indoor positioning situation, users are also concerned about the height where they stand. Due to the expansion of the range of three‐dimensional indoor positioning, more features must be needed to describe the location fingerprint. Directly using a machine learning algorithm will result in the reduced ability of classification. To solve this problem, in this paper, a “divide and conquer” strategy is adopted; that is, first through k‐medoids algorithm the three‐dimensional location space is clustered into a number of service areas, and then a multicategory SVM with less features is created for each service area for further positioning. Our experiment shows that the error distance resolution of the approach with k‐medoids algorithm and multicategory SVM is higher than that of the approach only with SVM, and the former can effectively decrease the “crazy prediction.”
Antinociceptive and Antioxidant Activity ofZanthoxylum budrungaWall (Rutaceae) Seeds
Authors: Islam Md. Khirul , Biswas Nripendra Nath , Saha Sanjib , Hossain Hemayet , Jahan Ismet Ara , Khan Tanzir Ahmed , Awang Khalijah , Shilpi Jamil A.
Published: February 2014

Different parts of the medicinal plantZanthoxylum budrungaWall enjoy a variety of uses in ethnobotanical practice in Bangladesh. In the present study, a number of phytochemical and pharmacological investigations were done on the ethanol extract ofZ. budrungaseeds (ZBSE) to evaluate its antinociceptive and antioxidant potential. ZBSE was also subjected to HPLC analysis to detect the presence of some common antioxidants. In acetic acid induced writhing test in mice, ZBSE showed 65.28 and 74.30% inhibition of writhing at the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg and the results were statistically significant (P<0.001). In hot-plate test, ZBSE raised the pain threshold significantly (P<0.001) throughout the entire observation period. In DPPH scavenging assay, the IC50of ZBSE was observed at 82.60 μg/mL. The phenolic content was found to be 338.77 mg GAE/100 g of dried plant material. In reducing power assay, ZBSE showed a concentration dependent reducing ability. HPLC analysis indicated the presence of caffeic acid with a concentration of 75.45 mg/100 g ZBSE. Present investigation supported the use ofZanthoxylum budrungaseed in traditional medicine for pain management. Constituents including caffeic acid and other phenolics might have some role in the observed activity.
A Preliminary Investigation of User Perception and Behavioral Intention for Different Review Types: Customers and Designers Perspective
Authors: Qazi Atika , Raj Ram Gopal , Tahir Muhammad , Waheed Mahwish , Khan Saif Ur Rehman , Abraham Ajith
Published: February 2014

Existing opinion mining studies have focused on and explored only two types of reviews, that is, regular and comparative. There is a visible gap in determining the useful review types from customers and designers perspective. Based on Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and statistical measures we examine users’ perception about different review types and its effects in terms of behavioral intention towards using online review system. By using sample of users(N=400)and designers(N=106), current research work studies three review types, A (regular), B (comparative), and C (suggestive), which are related to perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and behavioral intention. The study reveals that positive perception of the use of suggestive reviews improves users’ decision making in business intelligence. The results also depict that type C (suggestive reviews) could be considered a new useful review type in addition to other types, A and B.

Corrigendum to “A Preliminary Investigation of User Perception and Behavioral Intention for Different Review Types: Customers and Designers Perspective”
4-Hydroxy-2-nonenal Induces Apoptosis by Inhibiting AKT Signaling in Human Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Ji Guang-rong , Yu Nai-chun , Xue Xiang , Li Zong-guang
Published: February 2014

The onset of lipid peroxidation within cellular membranes is associated with changes in their physiochemical properties and enzymatic dysfunction of the membrane environment. There are increasing bodies of evidence indicating that aldehydic molecules generated endogenously during the process of lipid peroxidation are causally involved in most of the pathophysiological effects associated with oxidative stress in cells and tissues. 4-Hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), among them, is believed to be largely responsible for cytopathological effects observed during oxidative stressin vivoand has achieved the status of one of the best recognized and most studied of the cytotoxic products of lipid peroxidation. Here, we reported that 4-HNE treatment may induce cell death in MG63 human osteosarcoma cells. The 4-HNE treatment could activate caspase-3 and alter the Bax/Bcl-2 apoptotic signaling. All these changes are due to the inhibition of AKT activity by 4-HNE treatment, and we also found that the p70S6K activity, downstream factors of AKT, was also blocked by 4-HNE. Our results revealed the molecular mechanism of how 4-HNE induces cell death in MG63 human osteosarcoma cells, which contributes to the clinical treatment of cancer therapy.
Prevalence and Associated Metabolic Factors of Gallstone Disease in the Elderly Agricultural and Fishing Population of Taiwan
Authors: Shen Hsi-Che , Hu Yi-Chun , Chen Yu-Fen , Tung Tao-Hsin
Published: February 2014

Purpose. To evaluate sex-related differences in the prevalence of and cardiovascular risk factors related to gallstone disease (GSD) in an elderly agricultural and fishing population of Taipei, Taiwan.Methods. The study sample consisted of 6511 healthy elderly participants (3971 men and 2540 women) who were voluntarily admitted to a teaching hospital for a physical checkup in 2010. The participants’ blood samples and real-time ultrasound fatty liver results were collected.Results. The prevalence of GSD in the study population was 13.2%, which increased significantly with population age (P<.0001). Women were associated with significantly higher GSD prevalence than men (14.8% versus 12.2%; for the chi-square test,P=.003). In a multiple logistic regression analysis, female sex, older age, and metabolic syndrome (MetS) were significantly associated with GSD. Multiple logistic regression analysis also revealed that obesity (odds ratioOR=1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09–1.44) and metabolic factors (one or 2 versus none,OR=1.48, 95% CI: 1.08–1.76) were significantly associated with GSD in women but not in men.Conclusion. In the study population, female sex, older age, and MetS were associated with higher GSD prevalence. The population exhibited other sex-related differences.
Structure and Friction Behavior of CrNx/a-C:H Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Shang Lunlin , Zhang Guangan , Geng Zhongrong
Published: February 2014

CrN and CrNx/a-C:H nanocomposite films were deposited on Si substrates by the magnetron sputtering technique. The structure, chemical state, and friction behavior of the CrNx/a-C:H films prepared at various CH4 content were studied systematically. The CrN film shows strong (111) and (220) orientation, while the CrNx/a-C:H films consist of the nanocrystalline CrNx or Cr particles embedded in an amorphous hydrocarbon (a-C:H) matrix and show weak diffraction peaks, which is in accordance with the XPS analysis results. The typical Raman D and G peaks are observed, indicating that the separated amorphous carbon or CNx phase appears in the CrNx/a-C:H films. However, no chromium carbide was observed in all the as-deposited samples. From the SEM graphs, all the deposited films depicted a dense and compact microstructure with well-attached interface with the substrate. The average friction coefficient of the CrNx/a-C:H films largely decreased with increasing CH4 content.
A Memetic Approach for Improving Minimum Cost of Economic Load Dispatch Problems
Authors: Kim Jinho , Kim Chang Seob , Geem Zong Woo
Published: February 2014

Economic load dispatch problem is a popular optimization problem in electrical power system field, which has been so far tackled by various mathematical and metaheuristic approaches including Lagrangian relaxation, branch and bound method, genetic algorithm, tabu search, particle swarm optimization, harmony search, and Taguchi method. On top of these techniques, this study proposes a novel memetic algorithm scheme combining metaheuristic algorithm and gradient‐based technique to find better solutions for an economic load dispatch problem with valve‐point loading. Because metaheuristic algorithms have the strength in global search and gradient‐based techniques have the strength in local search, the combination approach obtains better results than those of any single approach. A bench‐mark example of 40 generating‐unit economic load dispatch problem demonstrates that the memetic approach can further improve the existing best solutions from the literature.
Determination of Muscone in Rats Plasma following Oral Administration of Artificial Musk: Using of Combined Headspace Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Wu Qibiao , Li Haitao , Leng Yujing , Deng Haishan , Cheng Haibo , Shen Weixing
Published: February 2014

To develop an analytical method for determination of plasma concentrations of muscone in rats following oral administration of artificial musk, with the aim of investigating the pharmacokinetic profile of artificial musk. Plasma samples were pretreated with acetonitrile to precipitate proteins. Headspace injection coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used for quantitative analysis of muscone concentrations. A strong linear relationship was obtained for plasma muscone concentrations ranging from 75.6 to 7560 ng·mL−1  R2=0.9998, with the minimum detectable concentration being 25 ng·mL−1. The within-day and interday precision for determination of three different concentrations of muscone were favorable (RSD < 25%). The average absolute recovery ranged from 83.7 to 88.6%, with an average relative recovery of 100.5 to 109.8%. The method described was characterized by stability and reliability, and in the present study showed significant specificity and high sensitivity. This method would be applicable to the analysis of plasma concentrations of muscone in preclinical contexts, where artificial musk is used.
On Products of Distributions in Colombeau Algebra
Authors: Miteva Marija , Jolevska-Tuneska Biljana , Atanasova-Pacemska Tatjana
Published: February 2014

Results on products of distributions and δ(p)(x) are derived. They are obtained in Colombeau differential algebra 𝒢(R) of generalized functions that contains the space 𝒟′(R) of Schwartz distributions as a subspace. Products of this form are useful in quantum renormalization theory in Physics.
Advanced Ovarian Dysgerminoma Infiltrating Both Ovaries and Uterus in a 7-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Hyseni Nexhmi , Llullaku Sadik , Jashari Hysni , Zahiti Kaltrina , Hyseni Fjolla , Kurshumliu Fisnik , Luci Lumturije , Muqolli Fehim , Hasani Antigona
Published: February 2014

Introduction. Ovarian dysgerminoma is a rare malignant ovarian germ cell tumor with its peak incidence in young women. Abdominal pain, abdominal distention, and the presence of a palpable mass are common symptoms at presentation. Depending on the FIGO stage at presentation the prognosis of dysgerminomas after surgical treatment, adjuvant chemotherapy, and radiotherapy is promising.Case Presentation. A 7-year-old girl was presented at our clinic with abdominal pain in all abdominal quadrants. Later the pain localized in the region of her right ovary. CT scan revealed a massive formation which was connected to her right ovary.Conclusion. Although malignant ovarian germ cell tumours are rare in children, physicians must always consider the possibility of MOGT-occurrences. The clinical symptoms might not be specific: abdominal pain, abdominal distention, nausea, and vomiting. In order to make a correct diagnosis the patients should undergo a complete clinical examination including radiological scans. Initial management is frequently surgery, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Although disgerminoma is malignant tumor, the prognosis is promising.
The Effects of Structural Parameter Variation on Cable Force of Fast Cable-Net Structure
Authors: Wang Qiming , Jiang Peng , Kong Xu
Published: February 2014

Five-hundred-meter aperture spherical radio telescope (FAST) is supported by a cable-net structure, which enables its surface to form a real-time paraboloid by active control. FAST project is currently in the construction and implementation stage. However, there are always a considerable amount of errors that existed in practice which may result in the deviation of the structure from its ideal model or design. Therefore, structural parameter sensitivity analysis was discussed, which is indispensable. However, such deformation operation would lead to about 500 MPa of fatigue stress variation amplitude in the cable-net structure. Optimized deformation strategy is proposed to release the fatigue stress of the cable-net structure, which would be of advantage to improve the reliability of the cable-net structure. In the paper, the variation ranges of structural parameters were rationally determined. Based on local sensitivity analysis and global sensitivity analysis method, finite element model was used to study the effect of different structural parameters on the static behavior. It can be concluded that the effect of several key design parameters such as the cutting length and the elastic modulus of cable on the cable force is significant. The global sensitivity analysis indicates that the cable force range of the cable-net is −19% to 27%.
Channel Selection Based on Trust and Multiarmed Bandit in Multiuser, Multichannel Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Zeng Fanzi , Shen Xinwang
Published: February 2014

This paper proposes a channel selection scheme for the multiuser, multichannel cognitive radio networks. This scheme formulates the channel selection as the multiarmed bandit problem, where cognitive radio users are compared to the players and channels to the arms. By simulation negotiation we can achieve the potential reward on each channel after it is selected for transmission; then the channel with the maximum accumulated rewards is formally chosen. To further improve the performance, the trust model is proposed and combined with multi-armed bandit to address the channel selection problem. Simulation results validate the proposed scheme.