bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of High-Performance UV Detector Using Nanocrystalline Diamond Thin Film
Authors: Lin C. R. , Wei D. H. , BenDao M. K. , Chen W. E. , Liu T. Y.
Published: July 2014

Nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) films are promising materials for wide-spread applications due to their outstanding characteristics of chemical, physical, and highly smooth surface. Our present work aimed at the fabrication of high performance diamond-based UV detector. NCD films were prepared by microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition process, and then Au interdigital electrodes were deposited onto the surface of the as-grown NCD film by sputtering technique. Annealing procedures were conducted at various temperatures to obtain Ohmic contact of NCD/Au structure. The surface morphology, microstructure, and wettablity of the NCD films were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, atomic forced microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and water contact angle measurement, respectively. The electrical property and photoconductivity of the fabricated devices were tested for UV detection application. It was found that the NCD films possessed high sp3fraction of 68.6%, low surface roughness of 9.6 nm, and good hydrophobicity, as deposited under working pressure of 40 Torr. Also, the NCD/Au structure annealed at 500°C exhibited a good Ohmic contact characteristic, high detection efficiency, and fast response to UV irradiation in air ambient. The proposed study indeed demonstrates prospective applications of NCD films in UV detector, photocatalyst, solar cell, and so on.
Human Genetic Disorders and Knockout Mice Deficient in Glycosaminoglycan
Authors: Mizumoto Shuji , Yamada Shuhei , Sugahara Kazuyuki
Published: July 2014

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are constructed through the stepwise addition of respective monosaccharides by various glycosyltransferases and maturated by epimerases and sulfotransferases. The structural diversity of GAG polysaccharides, including their sulfation patterns and sequential arrangements, is essential for a wide range of biological activities such as cell signaling, cell proliferation, tissue morphogenesis, and interactions with various growth factors. Studies using knockout mice of enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of the GAG side chains of proteoglycans have revealed their physiological functions. Furthermore, mutations in the human genes encoding glycosyltransferases, sulfotransferases, and related enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of GAGs cause a number of genetic disorders including chondrodysplasia, spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. This review focused on the increasing number of glycobiological studies on knockout mice and genetic diseases caused by disturbances in the biosynthetic enzymes for GAGs.
Novel Mutation in thePKHD1Gene Diagnosed Prenatally in a Fetus with Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Thakur Pankaj , Speer Paul , Rajkovic Aleksandar
Published: July 2014

We report a 29-year-old gravida 2, para 0100, who presented at 19 weeks and 4 days of gestation for ultrasound to assess fetal anatomy. Routine midtrimester fetal anatomy ultrasound revealed enlarged, hyperechoic fetal kidneys and normal amniotic fluid index. Follow-up ultrasound at 23 weeks and 5 days revealed persistently enlarged, hyperechoic fetal kidneys. Progressive oligohydramnios was not evident until 29 weeks of gestation, with anhydramnios noted by 35 weeks of gestation. Amniocentesis was performed for karyotype and to search for mutations in thePKHD1for the presumptive diagnosis of autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD). In our patient, a maternally inherited, previously reported pathogenic missense mutation in thePKHD1gene, c.10444C>T, was identified. A second, previously unreportedde novomutation, c.5909-2delA, was also identified. This mutation affects the canonical splice site and is most likely pathogenic. Our case highlightsPKHD1allelic heterogeneity and the importance of genetic testing in the prenatal setting where many other genetic etiologies can phenocopy ARPKD.
A Unique Electrical Thermal Stimulation System Comparable to Moxibustion of Subcutaneous Tissue
Authors: Myoung Hyoun-Seok , Lee Kyoung-Joung
Published: July 2014

Moxibustion strengthens immunity and it is an effective treatment modality, but, depending on the material quantity, shape, and composition, the thermal strength and intensity can be difficult to control, which may cause pain or epidermal burns. To overcome these limitations, a heat stimulating system which is able to control the thermal intensity was developed. The temperature distributions on epidermis, at 5 mm and 10 mm of depth, in rabbit femoral tissue were compared between moxibustion and the electric thermal stimulation system. The stimulation system consists of a high radio frequency dielectric heating equipment (2 MHz frequency, maximum power 200 W), isolation probe, isolation plate, negative pressure generator, and a temperature assessment system. The temperature was modulated by controlling the stimulation pulse duty ratio, repetition number, and output. There were 95% and 91% temperature distribution correlations between moxibustion and the thermal stimulus at 5 mm and 10 mm of depth in tissue, respectively. Moreover, the epidermal temperature in thermal stimulation was lower than that in moxibustion. These results showed that heat loss by the electric thermal stimulation system is less than that by the traditional moxibustion method. Furthermore, the proposed electric thermal stimulation did not cause adverse effects, such as suppuration or blisters, and also provided subcutaneous stimulation comparable to moxibustion.
Two Bootstrap Strategies for ak-Problem up to Location-Scale with Dependent Samples
Authors: Quessy Jean-François , Éthier François
Published: July 2014

This paper extends the work of Quessy and Éthier (2012) who considered tests for thek-sample problem with dependent samples. Here, the marginal distributions are allowed, underH0, to differ according to their mean and their variance; in other words, one focuses on the shape of the distributions. Although easily stated, this problem nevertheless requires a careful treatment for the computation of validPvalues. To this end, two bootstrap strategies based on the multiplier central limit theorem are proposed, both exploiting a representation of the test statistics in terms of a Hadamard differentiable functional. This accounts for the fact that one works with empirically standardized data instead of the original observations. Simulations reported show the nice sample properties of the method based on Cramér-von Mises and characteristic function type statistics. The newly introduced tests are illustrated on the marginal distributions of the eight-dimensionalOil currencydata set.
Appraisal on Textured Grain Growth and Photoconductivity of ZnO Thin Film SILAR
Authors: Thomas Deepu , Vattappalam Sunil C. , Mathew Sunny , Augustine Simon
Published: July 2014

ZnO thin films were prepared by successive ionic layer adsorption reaction (SILAR) method. The textured grain growth along c-axis in pure ZnO thin films and doped with Sn was studied. The structural analysis of the thin films was done by X-ray diffraction and surface morphology by scanning electron microscopy. Textured grain growth of the samples was measured by comparing the peak intensities. Textured grain growth and photo current in ZnO thin films were found to be enhanced by doping with Sn. ZnO thin film having good crystallinity with preferential (002) orientation is a semiconductor with photonic properties of potential benefit to biophotonics. From energy dispersive X-ray analysis, it is inferred that oxygen vacancy creation is responsible for the enhanced textured grain growth in ZnO thin films.
Dimensions of Fractals Generated by Bi-Lipschitz Maps
Authors: Deng Qi-Rong , Ngai Sze-Man
Published: July 2014

On the class of iterated function systems of bi-Lipschitz mappings that are contractions with respect to some metrics, we introduce a logarithmic distortion property, which is weaker than the well-known bounded distortion property. By assuming this property, we prove the equality of the Hausdorff and box dimensions of the attractor. We also obtain a formula for the dimension of the attractor in terms of certain modified topological pressure functions, without imposing any separation condition. As an application, we prove the equality of Hausdorff and box dimensions for certain iterated function systems consisting of affine maps and nonsmooth maps.
Large-Area Binary Blazed Grating Coupler between Nanophotonic Waveguide and LED
Authors: Li Hongqiang , Zhou Wenqian , Zhang Meiling , Liu Yu , Zhang Cheng , Li Enbang , Miao Changyun , Tang Chunxiao
Published: July 2014

A large-area binary blazed grating coupler for the arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) demodulation integrated microsystem on silicon-on-insulator (SOI) was designed for the first time. Through the coupler, light can be coupled into the SOI waveguide from the InP-based C-band LED for the AWG demodulation integrated microsystem to function. Both the length and width of the grating coupler are 360 μm, as large as the InP-based C-band LED light emitting area in the system. The coupler was designed and optimized based on the finite difference time domain method. When the incident angle of the light source is0°, the coupling efficiency of the binary blazed grating is 40.92%, and the 3 dB bandwidth is 72 nm at a wavelength of 1550 nm.
Cooperative and Competitive Dynamics Model for Information Propagation in Online Social Networks
Authors: Zhang Yaming , Tang Chaosheng , Weigang Li
Published: July 2014

Traditional empirical models of propagation consider individual contagion as an independent process, thus spreading in isolation manner. In this paper, we study how different contagions interact with each other as they spread through the network in order to propose an alternative dynamics model for information propagation. The proposed model is a novel combination of Lotka-Volterra cooperative model and competitive model. It is assumed that the interaction of one message on another is flexible instead of always negative. We prove that the impact of competition depends on the critical speed of the messages. By analyzing the differential equations, one or two stable equilibrium points can be found under certain conditions. Simulation results not only show the correctness of our theoretical analyses but also provide a more attractive conclusion. Different types of messages could coexist in the condition of high critical speed and intense competitive environment, or vice versa. The messages will benefit from the high critical speed when they are both competitive, and adopting a Tit-for-Tat strategy is necessary during the process of information propagation.
Acute Abdominal Pain after Intercourse: Adrenal Hemorrhage as the First Sign of Metastatic Lung Cancer
Authors: Wang Jeremy , Packer Clifford D.
Published: July 2014

Although the adrenal glands are a common site of cancer metastases, they are often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally on CT scan or autopsy. Spontaneous adrenal hemorrhage associated with metastatic lung cancer is an exceedingly rare phenomenon, and diagnosis can be difficult due to its nonspecific symptoms and ability to mimic other intra-abdominal pathologies. We report a case of a 65-year-old man with a history of right upper lobectomy seven months earlier for stage IB non-small cell lung cancer who presented with acute abdominal pain after intercourse. CT scan revealed a new right adrenal mass with surrounding hemorrhage, and subsequent FDG-PET scan confirmed new metabolic adrenal metastases. The patient’s presentation of abdominal pain and adrenal hemorrhage immediately after sexual intercourse suggests that exertion, straining, or increased intra-abdominal pressure might be risk factors for precipitation of hemorrhage in patients with adrenal metastases. Management includes pain control and supportive treatment in mild cases, with arterial embolization or adrenalectomy being reserved for cases of severe hemorrhage.
Optimization of a Continuous Hybrid Impeller Mixer via Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Othman N. , Kamarudin S. K. , Takriff M. S. , Rosli M. I. , Engku Chik E. M. F. , Meor Adnan M. A. K.
Published: July 2014

This paper presents the preliminary steps required for conducting experiments to obtain the optimal operating conditions of a hybrid impeller mixer and to determine the residence time distribution (RTD) using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). In this paper, impeller speed and clearance parameters are examined. The hybrid impeller mixer consists of a single Rushton turbine mounted above a single pitched blade turbine (PBT). Four impeller speeds, 50, 100, 150, and 200 rpm, and four impeller clearances, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mm, were the operation variables used in this study. CFD was utilized to initially screen the parameter ranges to reduce the number of actual experiments needed. Afterward, the residence time distribution (RTD) was determined using the respective parameters. Finally, the Fluent-predicted RTD and the experimentally measured RTD were compared. The CFD investigations revealed that an impeller speed of 50 rpm and an impeller clearance of 25 mm were not viable for experimental investigations and were thus eliminated from further analyses. The determination of RTD using ak-εturbulence model was performed using CFD techniques. The multiple reference frame (MRF) was implemented and a steady state was initially achieved followed by a transient condition for RTD determination.
Cardiovascular Risk Factors in the Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: da Silva Felipe Freire , Levy Roger Abramino , de Carvalho Jozélio Freire
Published: July 2014

A major cause of morbidity and mortality in the context of the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is the occurrence of thrombotic events. Besides the pathogenic roles of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), other risk factors and medical conditions, which are conditions for traditional risk of an individual without the APS, can coexist in this patient, raising their risk of developing thrombosis. Therefore, the clinical and laboratory investigation of comorbidities known to increase cardiovascular risk in patients with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is crucial for the adoption of a more complete and effective treatment. Experimental models and clinical studies show evidence of association between APS and premature formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Atherosclerosis has major traditional risk factors: hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, dyslipidemia, smoking, and sedentary lifestyle that may be implicated in vascular involvement in patients with APS. The influence of nontraditional risk factors as hyperhomocysteinemia, increased lipoprotein a, and anti-oxLDL in the development of thromboembolic events in APS patients has been studied in scientific literature. Metabolic syndrome with all its components also has been recently studied in antiphospholipid syndrome and is associated with arterial events.
Extended Games Played by Managerial Firms with Asymmetric Costs
Authors: Wang Leonard F. S.
Published: July 2014

Both demand and cost asymmetries are considered in oligopoly model with managerial delegation. It shows that (i) both efficient and inefficient firms with delegation have second move advantage under quantity setting and first move advantage under price competition; (ii) the extended games under both quantity and price competition have subgame equilibria. Lastly, the social welfare of all strategy combinations is considered to find that when the efficient firm moves first and the inefficient firm moves second under price competition, the social welfare can be higher than Bertrand case, if the efficiency gap between the two firms is huge.
Saphenous Vein Sparing Superficial Inguinal Dissection in Lower Extremity Melanoma
Authors: Öztürk Muhammed Beşir , Akan Arzu , Özkaya Özay , Egemen Onur , Öreroğlu Ali Rıza , Kayadibi Turgut , Akan Mithat
Published: July 2014

Aim. The classic inguinal lymph node dissection is the main step for the regional control of the lower extremity melanoma, but this surgical procedure is associated with significant postoperative morbidity. The permanent lymphedema is the most devastating long-term complication leading to a significant decrease in the patient’s quality of life. In this study we present our experience with modified, saphenous vein sparing, inguinal lymph node dissections for patients with melanoma of the lower extremity.Methods. Twenty one patients (10 women, 11 men) who underwent saphenous vein sparing superficial inguinal lymph node dissection for the melanoma of lower extremity were included in this study. The effects of saphenous vein sparing on postoperative complications were evaluated.Results. We have observed the decreased rate of long-term lymphedema in patients undergoing inguinal lymphadenectomy for the lower extremity melanoma.Conclusion. The inguinal lymphadenectomy with saphenous vein preservation in lower extremity melanoma patients seems to be an oncologically safe procedure and it may offer reduced long-term morbidity.
Listerial Rhombencephalitis in an Immunocompetent Woman
Authors: Czupryna Piotr , Zajkowska Agata , Garkowski Adam , Pancewicz Sławomir , Guziejko Katarzyna , Moniuszko Anna , Zajkowska Joanna
Published: July 2014

Listeriosis usually affects immunocompromised patients including elderly people and pregnant women, but it may also affect otherwise healthy individuals. In our report, we present a case of a rare and very severe form of listeriosis-rhombencephalitis in a 61-year-old female with no history of immunosuppression, who, because of history, clinical picture, and laboratory results as well as negative cultures, was at first diagnosed with viral encephalitis. This paper underlines thatListeria monocytogenesinfection should be taken into consideration in case of lymphocytic encephalitis even in immunocompetent patients. Typical MRI picture may be crucial in establishing a proper diagnosis as the lab results may be misleading.
A Delay Decomposition Approach to the Stability Analysis of Singular Systems with Interval Time‐Varying Delay
Authors: Jiao Jianmin , Zhang Rui
Published: July 2014

This paper investigates
delay‐dependent stability problem for singular systems with interval
time‐varying delay. An appropriate Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional is
constructed by decomposing the delay interval into multiple
equidistant subintervals, where both the information of every
subinterval and time‐varying delay have been taken into account.
Employing the Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional, improved
delay‐dependent stability criteria for the considered systems to be
regular, impulse‐free, and stable are established. Finally, two
numerical examples are presented to show the effectiveness and less
conservativeness of the proposed method.
Investigation of Seismic Behavior of Container Crane Structures by Shake Table Tests and Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Azeloglu C. Oktay , Edincliler Ayse , Sagirli Ahmet
Published: July 2014

This paper is concerned with the verification of mathematical modeling of the container cranes under earthquake loadings with shake table test results. Comparison of the shake table tests with the theoretical studies has an important role in the estimation of the seismic behavior of the engineering structures. For this purpose, a new shake table and mathematical model were developed. Firstly, a new physical model is directly fixed on the shake table and the seismic response of the container crane model against the past earthquake ground motion was measured. Secondly, a four degrees-of-freedom mathematical model is developed to understand the dynamic behaviour of cranes under the seismic loadings. The results of the verification study indicate that the developed mathematical model reasonably represents the dynamic behaviour of the crane structure both in time and frequency domains. The mathematical model can be used in active-passive vibration control studies to decrease structural vibrations on container cranes.
Metabolic Modeling of CommonEscherichia coliStrains in Human Gut Microbiome
Authors: Gao Yue-Dong , Zhao Yuqi , Huang Jingfei
Published: July 2014

The recent high-throughput sequencing has enabled the composition ofEscherichia colistrains in the human microbial community to be profiled en masse. However, there are two challenges to address: (1) exploring the genetic differences betweenE. colistrains in human gut and (2) dynamic responses ofE. colito diverse stress conditions. As a result, we investigated theE. colistrains in human gut microbiome using deep sequencing data and reconstructed genome-wide metabolic networks for the three most commonE. colistrains, includingE. coliHS, UTI89, and CFT073. The metabolic models show obvious strain-specific characteristics, both in network contents and in behaviors. We predicted optimal biomass production for three models on four different carbon sources (acetate, ethanol, glucose, and succinate) and found that these stress-associated genes were involved in host-microbial interactions and increased in human obesity. Besides, it shows that the growth rates are similar among the models, but the flux distributions are different, even inE. colicore reactions. The correlations between human diabetes-associated metabolic reactions in theE. colimodels were also predicted. The study provides a systems perspective onE. colistrains in human gut microbiome and will be helpful in integrating diverse data sources in the following study.
Exploring Urban Taxi Drivers’ Activity Distribution Based on GPS Data
Authors: Hu Xiaowei , An Shi , Wang Jian
Published: July 2014

With the rapid development of information communication technology and data mining technology, we can obtain taxi vehicle’s real time operation status through the large‐scale taxi GPS trajectories data and explore the drivers’ activity distribution characteristics. Based on the 204 continuous hours of 3198 taxi vehicles’ operation data of Shenzhen, China, this paper analyzed the urban taxi driver’s activity distribution characteristics from different temporal and spatial levels. In the time level, we identified the difference with taxi daily operation pattern (weekday versus weekends), continuous time in one day, passengers in vehicle time, and taxi drivers’ operation frequency; in the space level, we explored the taxi driver’s searching pattern, including searching activity space distribution and the relationship between the pick‐up locations and the drop‐off locations. This research can be helpful for urban taxi drivers’ operation and behavior pattern identification, as well as the contribution to the geographical activity space analysis.
A Rare Presentation of Retiform Hemangioendothelioma in the External Auditory Canal
Authors: Jothi Ezhil Arasan , Sundaram Muthuchitra , Namasivayam Jeyalakshmidevi , Jothi Mathivanan
Published: July 2014

Retiform hemangioendothelioma is a rare intermediate or borderline neoplasm of the blood vessels that mostly occurs in extremities. Here we report a unique case of retiform hemangioendothelioma presented in the external auditory canal. 58-year-old male patient presented with the complaint of right ear swelling for 4 years. On examination, a spherical swelling in the right ear was found occluding the view of external auditory canal. The tumor was removed surgically. Intraoperatively, the mass was found attached to the outer part of the right external auditory canal near the root of helix. Histopathology of the resected tumor showed typical features of retiform hemangioendothelioma. In addition, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that tumor was positive for endothelial cell marker CD34 and occasionally positive for cell proliferative marker Ki-67.
Mean‐Field Backward Stochastic Evolution Equations in Hilbert Spaces and Optimal Control for BSPDEs
Authors: Xu Ruimin , Wu Tingting
Published: July 2014

We obtain the existence and uniqueness result of the mild solutions to mean‐field backward stochastic evolution equations (BSEEs) in Hilbert spaces under a weaker condition than the Lipschitz one. As an intermediate step, the existence and uniqueness result for the mild solutions of mean‐field BSEEs under Lipschitz condition is also established. And then a maximum principle for optimal control problems governed by backward stochastic partial differential equations (BSPDEs) of mean‐field type is presented. In this control system, the control domain need not to be convex and the coefficients, both in the state equation and in the cost functional, depend on the law of the BSPDE as well as the state and the control. Finally, a linear‐quadratic optimal control problem is given to explain our theoretical results.
First Record of Isolation and Characterization of Methicillin ResistantStaphylococcus lugdunensisfrom Clinical Samples in Iraq
Authors: Al-Charrakh Alaa H. , Obayes Mohammed H.
Published: July 2014

This study was conducted to determine the frequency ofStaphylococcus lugdunensisin different clinical samples. Out of 690 clinical samples, a total of 178 coagulase negative staphylococci (CoNS) isolates were recovered. CoNS were identified as 10 different species; 22 isolates belonged toStaphylococcus lugdunensis. Two specific genes forS. lugdunensiswere used (tanAgene andfblgene) to confirm identification. Both of these specific genes were detected in 15 (68.1%) of 22 isolates that were identified phenotypically. The results of oxacillin MIC showed that 7 of the 15 (46.6%)S. lugdunensisisolates were oxacillin resistant. The antibiotic susceptibility testing against 16 antibiotics showed that resistance rates were variable towards these antibiotics. Eight of fifteenS. lugdunensisisolates (53.3%) wereβ-lactamase producer. Results of molecular detection ofmecAgene found thatmecAgene was detected in 6 (40%) of 15S. lugdunensis. All of these 6 isolates (S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, and S6) were resistant to oxacillin. One isolate (S7) was resistant to oxacillin butmecAwas not detected in this isolate. This study is a first record of isolation and characterization of methicillin resistantS. lugdunensis(MRSL) from clinical samples in Iraq.
Left-Sided Whole Breast Irradiation with Hybrid-IMRT and Helical Tomotherapy Dosimetric Comparison
Authors: Shiau An-Cheng , Hsieh Chen-Hsi , Tien Hui-Ju , Yeh Hsin-Pei , Lin Chi-Ta , Shueng Pei-Wei , Wu Le-Jung
Published: July 2014

Purpose. Limited-tomotherapy and hybrid-IMRT treatment techniques were compared for reductions in ipsilateral and contralateral lung, heart, and contralateral breast radiation doses.Methods and Materials.Thirty consecutively treated left-sided early-stage breast cancer patients were scheduled for lTomo and hIMRT. For the hIMRT plan conventional tangential-field and four-field IMRT plans were combined with different weightings in the prescribed dose. For the lTomo plan a geometrically limited arc was designed for the beamlet entrance. ADpof 50.4 Gy in 28 fractions was used for the PTV. The dose coverage, homogeneity index, conformity index of the target, and the dose volumes of critical structures were compared.Results.Both modalities presented similar target coverage. The homogeneity and conformity were improved for lTomo withP<0.001andP=0.006, respectively. In the lTomo plan a concave dose distribution was generated with significant dose reductions in both high and low dose regions for ipsilateral lung and heart (P<0.001).Conclusions. lTomo plan can have similar dose coverage and better homogeneity and conformity to the target. By properly designing the directionally and completely blocked structure, lTomo plan was developed successfully in reducing doses to the healthy tissues for early-stage left-sided breast cancer radiotherapy.
A Class of Logarithmically Completely Monotonic Functions and Their Applications
Authors: Guo Senlin
Published: July 2014

We study the recent investigations on a class of functions which are logarithmically completely monotonic. Two open problems are also presented.
A Rare Cause of Testicular Metastasis: Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Manav Alper Nesip , Kazan Ercan , Ertek Mehmet Şirin , Amasyalı Akın Soner , Çulhacı Nil , Erol Haluk
Published: July 2014

Metastatic testicular cancers are rare. Primary tumor sources are prostate, lung, and gastrointestinal tract for metastatic testicular cancers. Metastasis of urothelial carcinoma (UC) to the testis is extremely rare. Two-thirds of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is of invasive stage at diagnosis and metastatic sites are the pelvic lymph nodes, liver, lung, and bone. We report a rare case of metastatic UTUC to the testis which has not been reported before, except one case in the literature. Testicular metastasis of UC should be considered in patients with hematuria and testicular swelling.
An Unusual Presentation of Charcot Arthropathy Caused by Syringomyelia Mimicking a Soft Tissue Tumor
Authors: Gunay Cuneyd , Atalar Ebru , Ataoglu Baybars
Published: July 2014

Charcot arthropathy is a chronic, degenerative condition and is associated with decreased sensorial innervation. Numerous causes of this arthropathy have been described. Here we report a case of neuropathic arthropathy secondary to syringomyelia which was misdiagnosed as a soft tissue tumor and treated surgically and additionally with radiotherapy at another institution. The patient had clinical and radiological signs of syringomyelia, associated with a limited range of motion, swelling, and pain in the affected joint. Neuropathic arthropathy, although less common, should be considered in cases of unexplained joint swelling, pain, and limited range of motion of the affected joint.
Optimal Financing Order Decisions of a Supply Chain under the Retailer′s Delayed Payment
Authors: Yang Honglin , Yu Ya , Zha Yong , Yuan Jijun
Published: July 2014

In real supply chain, a capital‐constrained retailer has two typical payment choices: the up‐front payment to receive a high discount price or the delayed payment to reduce capital pressure. We compare with the efficiency of optimal decisions of different participants, that is, supplier, retailer, and bank, under both types of payments based on a game equilibrium analysis. It shows that under the equilibrium, the delayed payment leads to a greater optimal order quantity from the retailer compared to the up‐front payment and, thus, improves the whole benefit of the supply chain. The numerical simulation for the random demand following a uniform distribution further verifies our findings. This study provides novel evidence that a dominant supplier who actively offers trade credit helps enhance the whole efficiency of a supply chain.
An Optimization-Based Approach to Calculate Confidence Interval on Mean Value with Interval Data
Authors: Zaman Kais , Kritee Saraf Anika
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we propose a methodology for construction of confidence interval on mean values with interval data for input variable in uncertainty analysis and design optimization problems. The construction of confidence interval with interval data is known as a combinatorial optimization problem. Finding confidence bounds on the mean with interval data has been generally considered an NP hard problem, because it includes a search among the combinations of multiple values of the variables, including interval endpoints. In this paper, we present efficient algorithms based on continuous optimization to find the confidence interval on mean values with interval data. With numerical experimentation, we show that the proposed confidence bound algorithms are scalable in polynomial time with respect to increasing number of intervals. Several sets of interval data with different numbers of intervals and type of overlap are presented to demonstrate the proposed methods. As against the current practice for the design optimization with interval data that typically implements the constraints on interval variables through the computation of bounds on mean values from the sampled data, the proposed approach of construction of confidence interval enables more complete implementation of design optimization under interval uncertainty.
Research on the Influence of Excitation Frequency on the Sensitivity in Metal Debris Detection with Inductor Sensor
Authors: Liu Bendong , Zhang Fangzhou , Li Desheng , Yang Jiahui
Published: July 2014

The nonferromagnetic debris is easier to be detected as the excitation frequency increases; however, the sensitivity of ferromagnetic metal debris decreases as the excitation frequency increases. This paper is aimed at finding a range of excitation frequency that fit both ferromagnetic metal debris detection and nonferromagnetic metal debris detection. The equivalent circuit of the metal debris detection system with microinductor sensor is analyzed in this paper. The formulae of relationship between the sensitivity and excitation frequency are achieved according to the equivalent circuit. The simulation model of metal debris detection with the microsensor coil is built with the Ansoft software. The equivalent inductance and the electromagnetic induction field of the microinductor sensor are simulated as the excitation frequency changed. The experimental test is carried out with the prototype of microinductor sensor. The simulation results and the test results are compared. The studies indicate that the relationship between the excitation frequency and the changing rate of sensor inductance can be described by the fitting formulae. A higher sensitivity can be obtained if a suitable excitation frequency is selected. These researches have reference value for the design of inductor sensor and the parameters setting in the experimental test.
Beneficial Effects of Adiponectin on Periodontal Ligament Cells under Normal and Regenerative Conditions
Authors: Nokhbehsaim Marjan , Keser Sema , Nogueira Andressa Vilas Boas , Cirelli Joni Augusto , Jepsen Søren , Jäger Andreas , Eick Sigrun , Deschner James
Published: July 2014

Type 2 diabetes and obesity are increasing worldwide and linked to periodontitis, a chronic disease which is characterized by the irreversible destruction of the tooth-supporting tissues, that is, periodontium. The mechanisms underlying the association of diabetes mellitus and obesity with periodontal destruction and compromised periodontal healing are not well understood, but decreased plasma levels of adiponectin, as found in diabetic and obese individuals, might be a critical mechanistic link. The aim of this in vitro study was to examine the effects of adiponectin on periodontal ligament (PDL) cells under normal and regenerative conditions, and to study the regulation of adiponectin and its receptors in these cells. Adiponectin stimulated significantly the expression of growth factors and extracellular matrix, proliferation, and in vitro wound healing, reduced significantly the constitutive tumor necrosis factor-αexpression, and caused a significant upregulation of its own expression. The beneficial actions of enamel matrix derivative on a number of PDL cell functions critical for periodontal regeneration were partially enhanced by adiponectin. The periodontopathogenPorphyromonas gingivalisinhibited the adiponectin expression and stimulated the expression of its receptors. In conclusion, reduced levels of adiponectin, as found in type 2 diabetes and obesity, may compromise periodontal health and healing.
Lactation Curve Pattern and Prediction of Milk Production Performance in Crossbred Cows
Authors: Jingar Suresh , Mehla R. K. , Singh Mahendra , Roy A. K.
Published: July 2014

Data pertaining to 11728 test-day daily milk yields of normal and mastitis Karan Fries cows were collected from the institute herd and divided as mastitis and nonmastitis and parity-wise. The data of lactation curves of the normal and mastitis crossbred cows was analyzed using gamma type function. FTDMY in normal and mastitis cows showed an increasing trend from TD-1 to TD-4 and a gradual decrease (P<0.01) thereafter until the end of lactation (TD-21) in different parities. The FTDMY was maximum (peak yield) in the fourth parity. Parity-wise lactation curve revealed a decrease in persistency, steeper decline in descending slope (c), and steeper increase in ascending slope (b) from 1st to 5th and above parity. The higher coefficient of determination (R2) and lower root mean square error (RMSE) indicated goodness and accuracy of the model for the prediction of milk prediction performance under field conditions. Clinical mastitis resulted in a significantly higher loss of milk yield (P<0.05). The FTDMY was maximum (P<0.05) in the fourth parity in comparison to the rest of parity. It is demonstrated that gamma type function can give the best fit lactation curve in normal and mastitis infected crossbred cows.
Study on the Highly Sensitive AChE Electrode Based on Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Zhang Shuping , Gu Zhancheng , Hu Yongli , Qu Song , Liu Ying
Published: July 2014

Using chitosan (CS) as carrier, the method named layer‐by‐layer (LBL) self‐assembly modification to modify the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) and acetylcholine esterase (AChE) was proposed to prepare the acetylcholine esterase electrode with high sensitivity and stability. The modified electrode was used to detect pesticide of aldicarb, and the enzyme inhibition rate of the electrode showed good linearity with pesticide concentrations in the range of 10−10 g·L−1 to 10−3 g·L−1. The detection limit was 10−11 g·L−1. The modified electrode was also used to detect the actual sample, and the recovery rate range was from 97.72% to 107.15%, which could meet the rapid testing need of the aldicarb residue. After being stored in the phosphate buffer solution (PBS) in 4°C for 30 days, the modified electrode showed good stability with the response current that was 80% of the original current.
Gestational Trophoblastic Disease: A Multimodality Imaging Approach with Impact on Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Dhanda Sunita , Ramani Subhash , Thakur Meenkashi
Published: July 2014

Gestational trophoblastic disease is a condition of uncertain etiology, comprised of hydatiform mole (complete and partial), invasive mole, choriocarcinoma, and placental site trophoblastic tumor. It arises from abnormal proliferation of trophoblastic tissue. Early diagnosis of gestational trophoblastic disease and its potential complications is important for timely and successful management of the condition with preservation of fertility. Initial diagnosis is based on a multimodality approach: encompassing clinical features, serial quantitativeβ-hCG titers, and pelvic ultrasonography. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is sometimes used as a problem-solving tool to assess the depth of myometrial invasion and extrauterine disease spread in equivocal and complicated cases. Chest radiography, body computed tomography (CT), and brain MRI have been recommended as investigative tools for overall disease staging. Angiography has a role in management of disease complications and metastases. Efficacy of PET (positron emission tomography) and PET/CT in the evaluation of recurrent or metastatic disease has not been adequately investigated yet. This paper discusses the imaging features of gestational trophoblastic disease on various imaging modalities and the role of different imaging techniques in the diagnosis and management of this entity.
Joint Direction-of-Departure and Direction-of-Arrival Estimation in a UWB MIMO Radar Detecting Targets with Fluctuating Radar Cross Sections
Authors: Pasya Idnin , Iwakiri Naohiko , Kobayashi Takehiko
Published: July 2014

This paper presents a joint direction-of-departure (DOD) and direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation in a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar utilizing ultra wideband (UWB) signals in detecting targets with fluctuating radar cross sections (RCS). The UWB MIMO radar utilized a combination of two-way MUSIC and majority decision based on angle histograms of estimated DODs and DOAs at each frequency of the UWB signal. The proposed angle estimation scheme was demonstrated to be effective in detecting targets with fluctuating RCS, compared to conventional spectra averaging method used in subband angle estimations. It was found that a wider bandwidth resulted in improved estimation performance. Numerical simulations along with experimental evaluations in a radio anechoic chamber are presented.
An Analysis Dictionary Learning Algorithm under a Noisy Data Model with Orthogonality Constraint
Authors: Zhang Ye , Yu Tenglong , Wang Wenwu
Published: July 2014

Two common problems are often encountered in analysis dictionary learning (ADL) algorithms. The first one is that the original clean signals for learning the dictionary are assumed to be known, which otherwise need to be estimated from noisy measurements. This, however, renders a computationally slow optimization process and potentially unreliable estimation (if the noise level is high), as represented by the Analysis K-SVD (AK-SVD) algorithm. The other problem is the trivial solution to the dictionary, for example, the null dictionary matrix that may be given by a dictionary learning algorithm, as discussed in the learning overcomplete sparsifying transform (LOST) algorithm. Here we propose a novel optimization model and an iterative algorithm to learn the analysis dictionary, where we directly employ the observed data to compute the approximate analysis sparse representation of the original signals (leading to a fast optimization procedure) and enforce an orthogonality constraint on the optimization criterion to avoid the trivial solutions. Experiments demonstrate the competitive performance of the proposed algorithm as compared with three baselines, namely, the AK-SVD, LOST, and NAAOLA algorithms.
Significance of Image Guidance to Clinical Outcomes for Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zhong Qiuzi , Gao Hong , Li Gaofeng , Xiu Xia , Wu Qinhong , Li Ming , Xu Yonggang
Published: July 2014

Purpose. To compare toxicity profiles and biochemical tumor control outcomes between patients treated with image-guided intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IG-IMRT) and non-IGRT intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for clinically localized prostate cancer.Materials and Methods. Between 2009 and 2012, 65 patients with localized prostate cancer were treated with IG-IMRT. This group of patients was retrospectively compared with a similar cohort of 62 patients who were treated between 2004 and 2009 with IMRT to the same dose without image guidance.Results. The median follow-up time was 4.8 years. The rectal volume receiving ≥40 and ≥70 Gy was significantly lower in the IG-IMRT group. Grade 2 and higher acute and late GI and GU toxicity rates were lower in IG-IMRT group, but there was no statistical difference. No significant improvement in biochemical control at 5 years was observed in two groups. In a Cox regression analysis identifying predictors for PSA relapse-free survival, only preradiotherapy PSA was significantly associated with biochemical control; IG-IMRT was not a statistically significant indicator.Conclusions. The use of image guidance in the radiation of prostate cancer at our institute did not show significant reduction in the rates of GI and GU toxicity and did not improve the biochemical control compared with IMRT.
A Generalized System of Nonlinear Variational Inequalities in Banach Spaces
Authors: Junlouchai Prapairat , Kaewcharoen Anchalee , Plubtieng Somyot
Published: July 2014

We introduce a new generalized system of nonlinear variational inequality problems (GSNVIP) by using the generalized projection method. Moreover, we introduce an iterative scheme for finding a solution to this problem. Moreover, some existence and strong convergence theorems are established in uniformly smooth and strictly convex Banach spaces under suitable conditions. The results presented in the paper improve and extend some recent results.
Local Fractional Derivative Boundary Value Problems for Tricomi Equation Arising in Fractal Transonic Flow
Authors: Niu Xiao-Feng , Zhang Cai-Li , Li Zheng-Biao , Zhao Yang
Published: July 2014

The local fractional decomposition method is applied to obtain the nondifferentiable numerical solutions for the local fractional Tricomi equation arising in fractal transonic flow with the local fractional derivative boundary value conditions.
Correlation between First and Second Trimester Uterine Artery Doppler Velocimetry and Placental Bed Histopathology
Authors: Akbaş Murat , Şen Cihat , Calay Zerrin
Published: July 2014

Aim. To evaluate the relationship between uterine artery Doppler indices and placental bed histopathology independent of clinical outcome.Materials and Methods. Uterine artery measurements were performed to 510 pregnant women who had come for routine antenatal care in 11–14th and 20–24th weeks. Placental bed biopsies from 141 cases were taken during cesarean section. Physiological changes and abnormal placental histology findings were investigated and compared with Doppler findings.Results. 116 biopsies were accepted as adequate biopsy and included in the study. Physiological changes were seen in 100 biopsies. Statistically significant higher PI and RI values in second trimester and higher notch rate in both trimesters were detected in the abnormal placental histology group (P<0,001).Conclusion. Strong relationship between uterine artery Doppler indices and preeclampsia or intrauterine growth retardation has been shown in previous studies. In our study, we concluded that there is significant relationship between Doppler findings and placental bed histopathology independent of clinical course.
Cholecystokinin Inhibits Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase Expression by Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Peritoneal Macrophages
Authors: Saia Rafael Simone , Mestriner Fabíola Leslie , Bertozi Giuliana , Cunha Fernando Queiróz , Cárnio Evelin Capellari
Published: July 2014

Cholecystokinin (CCK) was first described as a gastrointestinal hormone. However, apart from its gastrointestinal effects, studies have described that CCK also plays immunoregulatory roles. Taking in account the involvement of inducible nitric oxide synthase- (iNOS-) derived NO in the sepsis context, the present study was undertaken to investigate the role of CCK on iNOS expression in LPS-activated peritoneal macrophages. Our results revealed that CCK reduces NO production and attenuates the iNOS mRNA expression and protein formation. Furthermore, CCK inhibited the nuclear factor- (NF-)κB pathway reducing IκBαdegradation and minor p65-dependent translocation to the nucleus. Moreover, CCK restored the intracellular cAMP content activating the protein kinase A (PKA) pathway, which resulted in a negative modulatory role on iNOS expression. In peritoneal macrophages, the CCK-1R expression, but not CCK-2R, was predominant and upregulated by LPS. The pharmacological studies confirmed that CCK-1R subtype is the major receptor responsible for the biological effects of CCK. These data suggest an anti-inflammatory role for the peptide CCK in modulating iNOS-derived NO synthesis, possibly controlling the macrophage activation through NF-κB, cAMP-PKA, and CCK-1R pathways. Based on these findings, CCK could be used as an adjuvant agent to modulate the inflammatory response and prevent systemic complications commonly found during sepsis.
The Challenges Confronting Public Hospitals in India, Their Origins, and Possible Solutions
Authors: Bajpai Vikas
Published: July 2014

Despite the implementation of National Rural Health Mission over a period of nine years since 2005, the public health system in the country continues to face formidable challenges. In the context of plans for rolling out “Universal Health Care” in the country, this paper analyzes the social, economic, and political origins of the major challenges facing public hospitals in India. The view taken therein holds the class nature of the ruling classes in the country and the development paradigm pursued by them as being at the root of the present problems being faced by public hospitals. The suggested solutions are in tune with these realities.