bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing a Ring-VCO for RFID Transponders in 0.18 μm CMOS Process
Authors: Jalil Jubayer , Reaz Mamun Bin Ibne , Bhuiyan Mohammad Arif Sobhan , Rahman Labonnah Farzana , Chang Tae Gyu
Published: January 2014

In radio frequency identification (RFID) systems, performance degradation of phase locked loops (PLLs) mainly occurs due to high phase noise of voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs). This paper proposes a low power, low phase noise ring-VCO developed for 2.42 GHz operated active RFID transponders compatible with IEEE 802.11 b/g, Bluetooth, and Zigbee protocols. For ease of integration and implementation of the module in tiny die area, a novel pseudodifferential delay cell based 3-stage ring oscillator has been introduced to fabricate the ring-VCO. In CMOS technology, 0.18 μm process is adopted for designing the circuit with 1.5 V power supply. The postlayout simulated results show that the proposed oscillator works in the tuning range of 0.5–2.54 GHz and dissipates 2.47 mW of power. It exhibits a phase noise of −126.62 dBc/Hz at 25 MHz offset from 2.42 GHz carrier frequency.
Structural Reliability Assessment by Integrating Sensitivity Analysis and Support Vector Machine
Authors: Jiang Shao-Fei , Fu Da-Bao , Wu Si-Yao
Published: January 2014

To reduce the runtime and ensure enough computation accuracy, this paper proposes a structural reliability assessment method by the use of sensitivity analysis (SA) and support vector machine (SVM). The sensitivity analysis is firstly applied to assess the effect of random variables on the values of performance function, while the small‐influence variables are rejected as input vectors of SVM. Then, the trained SVM is used to classify the input vectors, which are produced by sampling the residual variables based on their distributions. Finally, the reliability assessment is implemented with the aid of reliability theory. A 10‐bar planar truss is used to validate the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed method, and a performance comparison is made with other existing methods. The results show that the proposed method can largely save the runtime with less reduction of the accuracy; furthermore, the accuracy using the proposed method is the highest among the methods employed.
Effect of Probiotics Supplementation on Bone Mineral Content and Bone Mass Density
Authors: Parvaneh Kolsoom , Jamaluddin Rosita , Karimi Golgis , Erfani Reza
Published: January 2014

A few studies in animals and a study in humans showed a positive effect of probiotic on bone metabolism and bone mass density. Most of the investigated bacteria wereLactobacillusandBifidobacterium. The positive results of the probiotics were supported by the high content of dietary calcium and the high amounts of supplemented probiotics. Some of the principal mechanisms include (1) increasing mineral solubility due to production of short chain fatty acids; (2) producing phytase enzyme by bacteria to overcome the effect of mineral depressed by phytate; (3) reducing intestinal inflammation followed by increasing bone mass density; (4) hydrolysing glycoside bond food in the intestines byLactobacillusandBifidobacteria. These mechanisms lead to increase bioavailability of the minerals. In conclusion, probiotics showed potential effects on bone metabolism through different mechanisms with outstanding results in the animal model. The results also showed that postmenopausal women who suffered from low bone mass density are potential targets to consume probiotics for increasing mineral bioavailability including calcium and consequently increasing bone mass density.
Research on Evaluation Model for Secondary Task Driving Safety Based on Driver Eye Movements
Authors: Jin Lisheng , Xian Huacai , Jiang Yuying , Niu Qingning , Xu Meijiao , Yang Dongmei
Published: January 2014

This study was designed to gain insight into the influence of performing different types of secondary task while driving on driver eye movements and to build a safety evaluation model for secondary task driving. Eighteen young drivers were selected and completed the driving experiment on a driving simulator. Measures of fixations, saccades, and blinks were analyzed. Based on measures which had significant difference between the baseline and secondary tasks driving conditions, the evaluation index system was built. Method of principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to analyze evaluation indexes data in order to obtain the coefficient weights of indexes and build the safety evaluation model. Based on evaluation scores, the driving safety was grouped into five levels (very high, high, average, low, and very low) using K-means clustering algorithm. Results showed that secondary task driving severely distracts the driver and the evaluation model built in this study could estimate driving safety effectively under different driving conditions.
Antibiogram for Haemodialysis Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Abdul Gafor Abdul Halim , Cheong Ping Pau , Zainal Abidin Anis Farahanum , Saruddin Muhammad Zulhilmie , Kah Yan Ng , Adam Siti Qania’ah , Ramli Ramliza , Sulong Anita , Periyasamy Petrick
Published: January 2014

Background. Haemodialysis (HD) catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) are a major complication of long-term catheter use in HD. This study identified the epidemiology of HD CRBSIs and to aid in the choice of empiric antibiotics therapy given to patients with HD CRBSIs.Methods. Patients with HD CRBSIs were identified. Their blood cultures were performed according to standard sterile technique. Specimens were sent to the microbiology lab for culture and sensitivity testing. Results were tabulated in antibiograms.Results. 18 patients with a median age of 61.0 years (IQR: 51.5–73.25) were confirmed to have HD CRBSIs based on our study criteria. Eight (44.4%) patients had gram-negative infections, 7 (38.9%) patients gram-positive infections, and 3 (16.7%) patients had polymicrobial infections. We noted that most of the gram-negative bacteria were sensitive to ceftazidime. Unfortunately, cloxacillin resistance was high among gram-positive organisms.Coagulase-negative StaphylococcusandBacillussp. were the most common gram-positive organisms and they were sensitive to vancomycin.Conclusion. Our study revealed the increased incidence of gram-negative organism in HD CRBSIs. Antibiogram is an important tool in deciding empirical antibiotics for HD CRBSIs. Tailoring your antibiotics accordingly to the antibiogram can increase the chance of successful treatment and prevent the emergence of bacterial resistance.
Effect of Heat Input on Microstructure and Hardness Distribution of Laser Welded Si-Al TRIP-Type Steel
Authors: Grajcar Adam , Różański Maciej , Stano Sebastian , Kowalski Aleksander , Grzegorczyk Barbara
Published: January 2014

This study is concerned with issues related to laser welding of Si-Al type TRIP steels with Nb and Ti microadditions. The tests of laser welding of thermomechanically rolled sheet sections were carried out using keyhole welding and a solid-state laser. The tests carried out for various values of heat input were followed by macro- and microscopic metallographic investigations as well as by microhardness measurements of welded areas. A detailed microstructural analysis was carried out in the penetration area and in various areas of the heat affected zone (HAZ). Special attention was paid to the influence of cooling conditions on the stabilisation of retained austenite, the most characteristic structural component of TRIP steels. The tests made it possible to determine the maximum value of heat input preventing the excessive grain growth in HAZ and to identify the areas of the greatest hardness reaching 520 HV0.1.
Molecular Targeted Approaches for AdvancedBRAFV600,N-RAS,c-KIT, andGNAQMelanomas
Authors: Giovanni Ponti , Giovanni Pellacani , Aldo Tomasi , Pietro Loschi , Gabriele Luppi , Fabio Gelsomino , Caterina Longo
Published: January 2014

The introduction of a newly developed target therapy for metastatic melanomas poses the challenge to have a good molecular stratification of those patients who may benefit from this therapeutic option. Practically, BRAF mutation status (V600E) is commonly screened although other non-V600E mutations (i.e., K-R-M-D) could be found in some patients who respond to therapy equally to the patients harboring V600E mutations. Furthermore, other mutations, namely, N-RAS, KIT, and GNAQ, should be sequenced according to distinct melanoma specific subtypes and clinical aspects. In our report, a practical flow chart is described along with our experience in this field.
DNA Methylation Pattern in Overweight Women under an Energy-Restricted Diet Supplemented with Fish Oil
Authors: Amaral Cátia Lira do , Milagro Fermín I. , Curi Rui , Martínez J. Alfredo
Published: January 2014

Dietary factors modulate gene expression and are able to alter epigenetic signatures in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). However, there are limited studies about the effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) on the epigenetic mechanisms that regulate gene expression. This research investigates the effects ofn-3-rich fish oil supplementation on DNA methylation profile of several genes whose expression has been reported to be downregulated byn-3 PUFA in PBMC:CD36,FFAR3,CD14,PDK4, andFADS1. Young overweight women were supplemented with fish oil or control in a randomized 8-week intervention trial following a balanced diet with 30% energy restriction. Fatty acid receptorCD36decreased DNA methylation at CpG +477 due to energy restriction. Hypocaloric diet-induced weight loss also reduced the methylation percentages of CpG sites located inCD14,PDK4, andFADS1. The methylation patterns of these genes were only slightly affected by the fish oil supplementation, being the most relevant to the attenuation of the weight loss-induced decrease inCD36methylation after adjusting by baseline body weight. These results suggest that then-3 PUFA-induced changes in the expression of these genes in PBMC are not mediated by DNA methylation, although other epigenetic mechanisms cannot be discarded.
Differential Evolutionary Constraints in the Evolution of Chemoreceptors: A Murine and Human Case Study
Authors: D’Oliveira Albanus Ricardo , Siqueira Dalmolin Rodrigo Juliani , Rybarczyk-Filho José Luiz , Alves Castro Mauro Antônio , Fonseca Moreira José Cláudio
Published: January 2014

Chemoreception is among the most important sensory modalities in animals. Organisms use the ability to perceive chemical compounds in all major ecological activities. Recent studies have allowed the characterization of chemoreceptor gene families. These genes present strikingly high variability in copy numbers and pseudogenization degrees among different species, but the mechanisms underlying their evolution are not fully understood. We have analyzed the functional networks of these genes, their orthologs distribution, and performed phylogenetic analyses in order to investigate their evolutionary dynamics. We have modeled the chemosensory networks and compared the evolutionary constraints of their genes inMus musculus,Homo sapiens, andRattus norvegicus. We have observed significant differences regarding the constraints on the orthologous groups and network topologies of chemoreceptors and signal transduction machinery. Our findings suggest that chemosensory receptor genes are less constrained than their signal transducing machinery, resulting in greater receptor diversity and conservation of information processing pathways. More importantly, we have observed significant differences among the receptors themselves, suggesting that olfactory and bitter taste receptors are more conserved than vomeronasal receptors.
Cytoreductive Nephrectomy for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Review of the Historical Literature and Its Role in the Era of Targeted Molecular Therapy
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Z. , Matthews P. N.
Published: January 2014

Renal cell carcinoma presents with metastatic disease in approximately 30% cases. While surgical intervention remains the standard of care for organ confined disease, its role is limited in the management of metastatic disease. Over the last decade, cytoreductive nephrectomy prior to immunotherapy has demonstrated significant improvement in overall survival for appropriately selected patients. This review summarizes the evidence for the role of cytoreductive nephrectomy in combination with immunotherapy and discusses its potential role in the current era of targeted molecular therapy.
A Group Based Key Sharing and Management Algorithm for Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Khan Zeeshan Shafi , Moharram Mohammed Morsi , Alaraj Abdullah , Azam Farzana
Published: January 2014

Vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs) are one special type of ad hoc networks that involves vehicles on roads. Typically like ad hoc networks, broadcast approach is used for data dissemination. Blind broadcast to each and every node results in exchange of useless and irrelevant messages and hence creates an overhead. Unicasting is not preferred in ad-hoc networks due to the dynamic topology and the resource requirements as compared to broadcasting. Simple broadcasting techniques create several problems on privacy, disturbance, and resource utilization. In this paper, we propose media mixing algorithm to decide what information should be provided to each user and how to provide such information. Results obtained through simulation show that fewer number of keys are needed to share compared to simple broadcasting. Privacy is also enhanced through this approach.
Least Squares Estimation forα-Fractional Bridge with Discrete Observations
Authors: Shen Guangjun , Yin Xiuwei
Published: January 2014

We consider a fractional bridge defined asdXt=-α(Xt/(T-t))dt+dBtH,  0≤t1/2and parameterα>0is unknown. We are interested in the problem of estimating the unknown parameterα>0. Assume that the process is observed at discrete timeti=iΔn,  i=0,…,n, andTn=nΔndenotes the length of the “observation window.” We construct a least squares estimatorα^nofαwhich is consistent; namely,α^nconverges toαin probability asn→∞.
Regular Aerobic Training Combined with Range of Motion Exercises in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Doğru Apti Mine , Kasapçopur Özgür , Mengi Murat , Öztürk Gülnur , Metin Gökhan
Published: January 2014

Objective. To assess the effects of regular aerobic training combined with range of motion (ROM) exercises on aerobic capacity, quality of life, and function in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).Methods. Thirty patients with JIA and 20 healthy age-matched controls (mean age ± SD, 11.3 ± 2.4 versus 11.0 ± 2.3, resp.;P>0.05) were included. All patients performed aerobic walking (4 days a week for 8 weeks) and active and passive ROM exercises of involved joints. All patients completed the childhood health assessment questionnaire (CHAQ) and the child health questionnaire. ROM measurements of joints were performed by using universal goniometer. Aerobic capacity was determined by measuring peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) during an incremental treadmill test.Results. Peak oxygen uptake and exercise duration were significantly lower in JIA group than in controls (32.5 ± 6.6 versus 35.9 ± 5.8 and 13.9 ± 1.9 versus 15.0 ± 2.0, resp.;P<0.05for both). Eight-week combined exercise program significantly improved exercise parameters of JIA patients (baseline versus postexerciseVO2peakand exercise duration, 32.5 ± 6.6 to 35.3 ± 7.9 and 13.9 ± 1.9 to 16.3 ± 2.2, resp.;P<0.001for both). Exercise intervention significantly improved CHAQ scores in JIA patients (0.77 ± 0.61 to 0.20 ± 0.28,P<0.001).Conclusion. We suggest that regular aerobic exercise combined with ROM exercises may be an important part of treatment in patients with JIA.
Double Compressions of Atmospheric Depth by Geopotential Tendency, Vorticity, and Atmospheric Boundary Layer Affected Abrupt High Particulate Matter Concentrations at a Coastal City for a Yellow Dust Period in October
Authors: Choi Hyo , Lee Mi Sook
Published: January 2014

Using GRIMM-aerosol sampler, NOAA-HYSPLIT model, and 3D-WRF-3.3 model, the transportation of dusts from Gobi Desert toward Gangneung city, Korea was investigated from 09:00 LST October 27 to 04:00 LST October 28, 2003. Maximum PM10 (PM2.5, PM1) concentration was detected with 3.8 (3.4, 14.1) times higher magnitude than one in non-Yellow Dust period. The combination of dusts transported from the desert under westerly wind with particulate matters and gases from vehicles on the road of the city caused high PM concentrations near the ground surface at 09:00 LST and their maxima at 17:00 LST near sunset with further pollutants from heating boilers in the resident area. Positive geopotential tendency at the 500 hPa level of the city (∂Φ/∂t; m day−1) corresponding to negative vorticity of-4×10-5 sec−1(-2.5×10-5 sec−1) at 0900 LST (21:00 LST; at night) was +83 m day−1(+30 m day−1) and it caused atmospheric depth between 500 hPa level and the ground surface to be vertically expanded. However, its net reduction to −53 m/12 hrs until 21:00 LST indicated synoptic-scale atmospheric layer to be vertical shrunken, resulting in the increase of PM concentrations at 17:00 LST. Simultaneously, much shallower microscale stable nocturnal surface inversion layer (NSIL) than daytime thermal internal boundary layer induced particulate matters to be merged inside the NSIL, resulting in maximum PM concentrations at 17:00 LST.
Design and Synthesis of Two Oxazine Derivatives Using Several Strategies
Authors: Lauro Figueroa-Valverde , Francisco Díaz-Cedillo , Marcela Rosas-Nexticapa , Elodia García-Cervera , Eduardo Pool-Gómez , María López-Ramos , Lenin Hau-Heredia , Betty Sarabia-Alcocer
Published: January 2014

Several oxazine derivatives have been synthesized; nevertheless, expensive reagents and special conditions are required. Therefore, in this study, two oxazine derivatives (2-chloro-3-{{2-[-(3-chloro-2-oxo-cyclobutyl)-(2,3-dimethoxy-9,10-dihydrostrychnid-10-yl)-amino]-ethyl}-[1,5-dimethyl-4-(1H-naphtho[1,2-e][1,3-oxazin-2-yl)-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-3-yl]-amino}-cyclobutanone and 2-chloro-3-{{2-[(3-chloro-2-oxo-cyclobutyl)-(1,7,7-trimethyl-bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-yl)-amino]-ethyl}-[1,5-dimethyl-4-(1H-naphtho[1,2-e][1,3]oxazin-2-yl)-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-3-yl]-amino}-cyclobutanone) were synthesized using several strategies. The structure of compounds obtained was confirmed by elemental analysis, spectroscopy, and spectrometry data. In conclusion, the methods used offer some advantages such as good yields, simple procedure, low cost, and ease of workup.
Preparation of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes/Hydroxyl-Terminated Silicone Oil Fiber and Its Application to Analysis of Crude Oils
Authors: Zhu Shukui , Tong Ting , Zhang Wanfeng , Dai Wei , He Sheng , Chang Zhenyang , Gao Xuanbo
Published: January 2014

A simple and efficient method to analyze the volatile and semivolatile organic compounds in crude oils has been developed based on direct immersion solid-phase microextraction coupled to comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (DI-SPME-GC × GC/TOFMS). A novel fiber, multiwalled carbon nanotubes/hydroxyl-terminated silicone oil (MWNTs-TSO-OH), was prepared by sol-gel technology. Using standard solutions, the extraction conditions were optimized such as extraction mode, extraction temperature, extraction time, and salts effect. With the optimized conditions, a real crude oil sample was extracted and then analyzed in detail. It shows that the proposed method is very effective in simultaneously analyzing the normal and branched alkanes, cycloalkanes, aromatic hydrocarbons, and biomarkers of crude oil such as steranes and terpanes. Furthermore, the method showed good linearity (r> 0.999), precision (RSD < 8%), and detection limits ranging from 0.2 to 1.6 ng/L.
Transmission Dynamics of a Two-City SIR Epidemic Model with Transport-Related Infections
Authors: Chen Yao , Yan Mei , Xiang Zhongyi
Published: January 2014

A two-city SIR epidemic model with transport-related infections is proposed. Some good analytical results are given for this model. If the basic reproduction numberℜ0γ≤1, there exists a disease-free equilibrium which is globally asymptotically stable. There exists an endemic equilibrium which is locally asymptotically stable if the basic reproduction numberℜ0γ>1. We also show the permanence of this SIR model. In addition, sufficient conditions are established for global asymptotic stability of the endemic equilibrium.
Rapamycin Attenuates Endothelial Apoptosis Induced by Low Shear Stress via mTOR and Sestrin1 Related Redox Regulation
Authors: Zhang Junxia , Wang Zhimei , Zhang Junjie , Zuo Guangfeng , Li Bing , Mao Wenxing , Chen Shaoliang
Published: January 2014

Background. Studies indicate the dramatic reduction of shear stress (SS) within the rapamycin eluting stent (RES) segment of coronary arteries. It remains unclear about the role of rapamycin in endothelialization of stented arteries where SS becomes low. Since mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway is involved in the antioxidative sestrins expression, we hypothesized that rapamycin attenuated low SS (LSS) induced endothelial dysfunction through mTOR and sestrin1 associated redox regulation.Methods and Results. To mimic the effect of LSS on the stented arteries, a parallel plate flow chamber was used to observe the interplay of LSS and rapamycin on endothelial cells (ECs). The results showed LSS significantly induced EC apoptosis which was mitigated by pretreatment of rapamycin. Rapamycin attenuated LSS induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) production via prohibition of sestrin1 downregulation. Activities of mTORC1 and mTORC2 were detected contradictorily modulated by LSS. Inhibition of rictor expression by target small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection prohibited sestrin1 downregulation induced by LSS, but inhibition of raptor did not.Conclusions. Rapamycin may prohibit sestrin1 downregulation through targeting mTORC2 in appeasing LSS induced EC oxidative apoptosis. Our results provide thein vitroevidence to explain the pathophysiology of RES stented arteries.
On Multilabel Classification Methods of Incompletely Labeled Biomedical Text Data
Authors: Kolesov Anton , Kamyshenkov Dmitry , Litovchenko Maria , Smekalova Elena , Golovizin Alexey , Zhavoronkov Alex
Published: January 2014

Multilabel classification is often hindered by incompletely labeled training datasets; for some items of such dataset (or even for all of them) some labels may be omitted. In this case, we cannot know if any item is labeled fully and correctly. When we train a classifier directly on incompletely labeled dataset, it performs ineffectively. To overcome the problem, we added an extra step, training set modification, before training a classifier. In this paper, we try two algorithms for training set modification: weighted k-nearest neighbor (WkNN) and soft supervised learning (SoftSL). Both of these approaches are based on similarity measurements between data vectors. We performed the experiments on AgingPortfolio (text dataset) and then rechecked on the Yeast (nontext genetic data). We tried SVM and RF classifiers for the original datasets and then for the modified ones. For each dataset, our experiments demonstrated that both classification algorithms performed considerably better when preceded by the training set modification step.
Exponential Stability of Stochastic Delayed Neural Networks with Inverse Hölder Activation Functions and Markovian Jump Parameters
Authors: Li Yingwei , Wu Huaiqin
Published: January 2014

The exponential stability issue for a class of stochastic neural networks (SNNs) with Markovian jump parameters, mixed time delays, andα-inverse Hölder activation functions is investigated. The jumping parameters are modeled as a continuous-time finite-state Markov chain. Firstly, based on Brouwer degree properties, the existence and uniqueness of the equilibrium point for SNNs without noise perturbations are proved. Secondly, by applying the Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional approach, stochastic analysis theory, and linear matrix inequality (LMI) technique, new delay-dependent sufficient criteria are achieved in terms of LMIs to ensure the SNNs with noise perturbations to be globally exponentially stable in the mean square. Finally, two simulation examples are provided to demonstrate the validity of the theoretical results.
Irrigated Soybean Leaf Photosynthesis in the Humid Subtropical Midsouth
Authors: Bruns H. Arnold
Published: January 2014

Photosynthesis (CER (μmol CO2mleaf area-2 s−1)), stomatal conductance (gsw), and intercellular [CO2] (Ci) of soybean (Glycine maxL. Merr.) grown using the early soybean production system (ESPS) of the midsouth were determined. Three irrigated cultivars were grown using ESPS on Bosket (Mollic Hapludalfs) and Dundee (Typic Endoaqualf) soils in 2011 and 2012 at Stoneville, MS. Single leaf CER,gsw, andCiwere determined at growth stages R3, R4, and R5 using decreasing photosynthetic photon flux densities (PPFD,μmol m−2 s−1) beginning at 2000 PPFD and decreasing by 250 PPFD increments to 250 PPFD. Photosynthesis changes fit a quadratic polynomial for all fixed variables and range from ~6.0 and 9.0 CER at 250 PPFD and ~22.0 to 28.0 CER at 2000 PPFD. No cultivar differences in CER,gsw, orCiwere noted at any growth stage or site either year. In 2012, CER,gsw, andCiwere lower when measured at R5 than the two previous growth stages, which was not observed in 2011. The R5 sampling in 2012 had accumulated 39 to 70 more growing degree units at 10°C base temperature (GDU 10’s) than in 2011 and were likely more mature. Increased soybean yields from ESPS appear not to result from higher leaf CER.
Sarcomatoid Variant of Urothelial Carcinoma (Carcinosarcoma, Spindle Cell Carcinoma): A Review of the Literature
Authors: Venyo Anthony Kodzo-Grey , Titi Sami
Published: January 2014

Background. Sarcomatoid variant of urothelial carcinoma (SVUC) was added to the WHO classification in 2004.Aims. To review the literature.Materials and Method. Various internet databases were used.Result. SVUCs are rare biphasic malignant neoplasms exhibiting morphologic/immunohistochemical evidence of epithelial and mesenchymal differentiation with the presence or absence of heterologous elements. Some cases of SVUC have been associated with radiation therapy and cyclophosphamide treatment. Patients’ ages range from 50 to 77 years (mean age 66). Patients tend to be younger and they more commonly presented with high-grade histology and advanced stage disease, in comparison with patients who had conventional urothelial carcinoma (CUC). Results of molecular/genetic studies strongly argue for a common monoclonal cell origin of both the epithelial and mesenchymal components in SUVC. The cancer specific survival of SVUC is poor in comparison with CUC. Radical surgical excision and chemoradiation may be associated with improved prognosis; chemoradiation as an organ preserving alternative to radical excision may be associated with improved outcome. There is no consensus opinion on the best treatment modalities for SUVC.Conclusions. SVUC is rare and is associated with inferior outcome compared with CUC. A multicentre trial of various treatment options is required. Cases of SVUC should be reported.
Effect of Storage on the Physicochemical and Flavour Attributes of Two Cultivars of Strawberry Cultivated in Northern India
Authors: Mishra Rachna , Kar Abhijit
Published: January 2014

An attempt was made to understand the changes in physicochemical quality (total soluble solids, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugars, total phenolics, anthocyanin content, and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity assay) and total volatile/aroma compounds of two cultivars of strawberry (Camarosa and Chandler) during storage at 5°C for 9 days at an interval of three days. Observations indicated a significant quantitative difference both in the physicochemical and in total volatile content among the cultivars indicating the importance of cultivar for determining the postharvest quality and shelf life. At the end of 9 days of storage significant changes in the physicochemical and total volatile/aroma compounds were observed. Total antioxidants and total phenols were found to increase significantly, whereas total soluble solids and total sugars decreased with the advent of storage period for both cultivars. Total anthocyanin contents however remained almost constant throughout the storage period. Titratable acidity in Camarosa reduced with the increase in the storage period whereas it remained almost constant in Chandler. Ascorbic acid increased in Camarosa whereas the same decreased significantly in Chandler. Significantly higher contents of esters and terpenoids in Camarosa indicated a better retention of the typical fruits flavour of strawberry compared to that of Chandler.
Brain Monitoring: Do We Need a Hole? An Update on Invasive and Noninvasive Brain Monitoring Modalities
Authors: Barone D. G. , Czosnyka M.
Published: January 2014

The ability to measure reliably the changes in the physical and biochemical environment after a brain injury is of great value in the prevention, treatment, and understanding of the secondary injuries. Three categories of multimodal brain monitoring exist: direct signals which are monitored invasively; variables which may be monitored noninvasively; and variables describing brain pathophysiology which are not monitored directly but are calculated at the bedside by dedicated computer software. Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring, either as stand-alone value or study of a dynamic trend, has become an important diagnostic tool in the diagnosis and management of multiple neurological conditions. Attempts have been made to measure ICP non-invasively, but this is not a clinical reality yet. There is contrasting evidence that monitoring of ICP is associated with better outcome, and further RCTs based on management protocol are warranted. Computer bedside calculation of “secondary parameters” has shown to be potentially helpful, particularly in helping to optimize “CPP-guided therapy.” In this paper we describe the most popular invasive and non invasive monitoring modalities, with great attention to their clinical interpretation based on the current published evidence.
A Meshless Local Petrov‐Galerkin Shepard and Least‐Squares Method Based on Duo Nodal Supports
Authors: Zhuang Xiaoying , Cai Yongchang
Published: January 2014

The meshless Shepard and least‐squares (MSLS) interpolation is a newly developed partition of unity‐ (PU‐) based method which removes the difficulties with many other meshless methods such as the lack of the Kronecker delta property. The MSLS interpolation is efficient to compute and retain compatibility for any basis function used. In this paper, we extend the MSLS interpolation to the local Petrov‐Galerkin weak form and adopt the duo nodal support domain. In the new formulation, there is no need for employing singular weight functions as is required in the original MSLS and also no need for background mesh for integration. Numerical examples demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the present method.
Applying of Factor Analyses for Determination of Trace Elements Distribution in Water from River Vardar and Its Tributaries, Macedonia/Greece
Authors: Popov Stanko Ilić , Stafilov Trajče , Šajn Robert , Tănăselia Claudiu , Bačeva Katerina
Published: January 2014

A systematic study was carried out to investigate the distribution of fifty-six elements in the water samples from river Vardar (Republic of Macedonia and Greece) and its major tributaries. The samples were collected from 27 sampling sites. Analyses were performed by mass spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS) and atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-AES). Cluster and R mode factor analysis (FA) was used to identify and characterise element associations and four associations of elements were determined by the method of multivariate statistics. Three factors represent the associations of elements that occur in the river water naturally while Factor 3 represents an anthropogenic association of the elements (Cd, Ga, In, Pb, Re, Tl, Cu, and Zn) introduced in the river waters from the waste waters from the mining and metallurgical activities in the country.
Feedback Control in a General Almost Periodic Discrete System of Plankton Allelopathy
Authors: Yin Wenshuang
Published: January 2014

We study the properties of almost periodic solutions for a general discrete system of plankton allelopathy with feedback controls and establish a theorem on the uniformly asymptotic stability of almost periodic solutions.
A LES Study on Passive Mixing in Supersonic Shear Layer Flows Considering Effects of Baffle Configuration
Authors: Zhao-Xin Ren , Bing Wang
Published: January 2014

Under the background of dual combustor ramjet (DCR), a numerical investigation of supersonic mixing layer was launched, focused on the mixing enhancement method of applying baffles with different geometric configurations. Large eddy simulation with high order schemes, containing a fifth-order hybrid WENO compact scheme for the convective flux and sixth-order compact one for the viscous flux, was utilized to numerically study the development of the supersonic mixing layer. The supersonic cavity flow was simulated and the cavity configuration could influence the mixing characteristics, since the impingement process of large scale structures formed inside the cavity could raise the vorticity and promote the mixing. The effect of baffle's configurations on the mixing process was analyzed by comparing the flow properties, mixing efficiency, and total pressure loss. The baffle could induce large scale vortexes, promote the mixing layer to lose its stability easily, and then lead to the mixing efficiency enhancement. However, the baffle could increase the total pressure loss. The present investigation could provide guidance for applying new passive mixing enhancement methods for the supersonic mixing.
Antibiotic Use as a Tragedy of the Commons: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: O'Brien Kieran S. , Blumberg Seth , Enanoria Wayne T. A. , Ackley Sarah , Sippl-Swezey Nicolas , Lietman Thomas M.
Published: January 2014

Background. Many believe antibiotic use results in a tragedy of the commons, since overuse may lead to antibiotic resistance and limiting use would benefit society. In contrast, mass antibiotic treatment programs are thought to result in community-wide benefits. A survey was conducted to learn the views of infectious disease experts on the individual- and societal-level consequences of antibiotic use.Methods. The survey instrument was designed to elicit opinions on antibiotic use and resistance. It was sent via SurveyMonkey to infectious disease professionals identified through literature searches. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.Results. A total of 1,530 responses were received for a response rate of 9.9%. Nearly all participants believed antibiotic use could result in a tragedy of the commons, at least in certain circumstances (96.0%). Most participants did not believe mass antibiotic treatment programs could produce societal benefits in an antibiotic-free society (91.4%) or in the United States (94.2%), though more believed such programs would benefit antibiotic-free societies compared to the United States (P<0.001).Conclusions. The experts surveyed believe that antibiotic use can result in a tragedy of the commons and do not believe that mass treatment programs benefit individuals or society.
The Prevalence of Tonsilloliths and Other Soft Tissue Calcifications in Patients Attending Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology Clinic of the University of Iowa
Authors: Bamgbose Babatunde Olamide , Ruprecht Axel , Hellstein John , Timmons Sherry , Qian Fang
Published: January 2014

Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of tonsiliths in patients attending the oral and maxillofacial radiology clinic of The University of Iowa and to determine if there is any correlation between the presence of tonsiliths and the presence of stones in other body tissues, ducts, or organs.Study Design. This was a two-part study. The first part was a prevalence study whereas the second was a matched pair case-control study. The matched pair case-control study commenced after the prevalence study was concluded. No new or unusual radiographs were made in this study. The study only reviewed radiographs that were made for clinical purposes.Results. A total of 1524 pantomographs were reviewed and 124 subjects (53 males and 71 females) aged 9 years and 2 months to 87 years (mean age 52.6 years) were included for data analysis. Thirty-eight subjects had single tonsiliths whereas 86 subjects had multiple tonsiliths. The prevalence of tonsiliths in the study population was 8.14%. A total of 20 subjects were included in the second part of the study, comprising 10 each for matched pair case-control groups. The observations did not indicate any correlation between the presence of tonsiliths and the presence of stones in other body tissues, ducts, or organs.Conclusion. The prevalence of tonsiliths in our study population was 8.14%. The observations in our study do not support any correlations between tonsiliths and calcifications in other body tissues, organs, or ducts.
Implementation of Robot Platform in Face Detection and Tracking Based on a New Authentication Scheme
Authors: Chen Young-Long , Sheu Jia-Shing , Cheng Chung-Ming , Tsai Wei-Hsiu
Published: January 2014

This study proposes a method for using stereo vision and face recogonition. The method differs from the feedback detection method used in sensors in general. The method disregards unimportant environmental changes and improves the overall performance of the recognition and tracking functions. Dual-CCD cameras on the visual system are used to capture images of faces. Through image preprocessing, determination of the moving target, and the position of the target center, the image is matched with the sample image to allow the robot to recognize and track stereo objects visually. The robot can recognize and track faces. And, the system also sends the images to a remote computer by wireless. A scheme is proposed to enhance the authentication messages by hash function in wireless communications. Since the proposed scheme provides an encryption function, it improves the authentication for wireless communications.
Staphylococcus pseudintermediusandStaphylococcus schleiferiSubspeciescoagulansfrom Canine Pyoderma Cases in Grenada, West Indies, and Their Susceptibility to Beta-Lactam Drugs
Authors: Hariharan Harry , Gibson Kathryn , Peterson Ross , Frankie Matthew , Matthew Vanessa , Daniels Joshua , Martin Nancy A. , Andrews Linton , Paterson Tara , Sharma Ravindra N.
Published: January 2014

Over a 2-year period 66 cases of canine pyoderma in Grenada, West Indies, were examined by aerobic culture in order to ascertain the bacteria involved and their antimicrobial resistance patterns. Of the 116 total bacterial isolates obtained, the majority belonged to Gram-positive species, and the most common organism identified through biochemical and molecular methods wasStaphylococcus pseudintermedius. Additionally, identification of aStaphylococcus schleiferisubspeciescoagulansisolate was confirmed by molecular methods. All isolates of staphylococci were susceptible to beta-lactam drugs: amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, cefovecin, cefoxitin, cefpodoxime, and cephalothin. They were also susceptible to chloramphenicol and enrofloxacin. Resistance was highest to tetracycline. Methicillin resistance was not detected in any isolate ofS. pseudintermediusor inS. schleiferi. Among the Gram-negative bacteria, the most common species wasKlebsiella pneumoniae, followed byAcinetobacter baumannii/calcoaceticus. The only drug to which all Gram-negative isolates were susceptible was enrofloxacin. This report is the first to confirm the presence ofS. pseudintermediusandS. schleiferisubspeciescoagulans, in dogs with pyoderma in Grenada, and the susceptibility of staphylococcal isolates to the majority of beta-lactam drugs used in veterinary practice.
Sensitivity Improvement of Ammonia Gas Sensor Based on Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):Poly(styrenesulfonate) by Employing Doping of Bromocresol Green
Authors: Aba La , Yusuf Yusril , Mitrayana  , Siswanta Dwi , Junaidi  , Triyana Kuwat
Published: January 2014

The aim of this research is to improve the sensitivity of ammonia gas sensor (hereafter referred to as sensor) based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) by employing the doping dye of bromocresol green (BCG). The doping process was carried out by mixing the BCG and the PEDOT:PSS in a solution with an optimum ratio of 1 : 1 in volume. The sensor was fabricated by using spin-coating technique followed by annealing process. For comparison, the BCG thin film and the PEDOT:PSS thin film were also deposited with the same method on glass substrates. For optical characterization, a red-light laser diode with a 650 nm wavelength was used as light source. Under illumination with the laser diode, the bare glass substrate and BCG film showed no absorption. The sensor exhibited linear response to ammonia gas for the range of 200 ppm to 800 ppm. It increased the sensitivity of sensor based on PEDOT:PSS with BCG doping being about twofold higher compared to that of without BCG doping. Furthermore, the response time and the recovery time of the sensor were found very fast. It suggests that the optical sensor based on BCG-doped PEDOT:PSS is promising for application as ammonia gas sensor.
A New Sixth Order Method for Nonlinear Equations inR
Authors: Singh Sukhjit , Gupta D. K.
Published: January 2014

A new iterative method is described for finding the real roots of nonlinear equations inR. Starting with a suitably chosenx0, the method generates a sequence of iterates converging to the root. The convergence analysis is provided to establish its sixth order of convergence. The number of iterations and the total number of function evaluations used to get a simple root are taken as performance measure of our method. The efficacy of the method is tested on a number of numerical examples and the results obtained are summarized in tables. It is observed that our method is superior to Newton’s method and other sixth order methods considered.
First Birth after Sperm Selection through Discontinuous Gradient Centrifugation and Artificial Insemination from a Chromosomal Translocation Carrier
Authors: Rouen Alexandre , Hyon Capucine , Balet Richard , Joyé Nicole , Cassuto Nino Guy , Siffroi Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Balanced chromosomal carriers, though usually healthy, are confronted with recurrent spontaneous abortions and malformations in the offspring. Those are related to the transmission of an abnormal, chromosomally unbalanced genotype. We evidenced that the proportion of unbalanced spermatozoa can be significantly decreased through a sperm preparation process called discontinuous gradient centrifugation (DGC). We therefore started offering intrauterine inseminations with this procedure to couples with a male translocation carriers.Case Presentation. We report the case of a 37-year-old man carrying a t(3;10)(q25;p13) reciprocal translocation. He and his partner had had trouble conceiving for ten years and had four spontaneous abortions. DGC in this patient decreased the proportion of unbalanced spermatozoa from 63.6% to 52.3%. They were therefore offered intrauterine insemination with DGC, which eventually led to the birth of a healthy female child carrying the paternal translocation.Conclusion. We showed that translocation carriers could be offered intrauterine inseminations with DGC. Before this, the only two options were natural conception with prenatal diagnosis and termination of chromosomally unbalanced fetuses or preimplantation genetic diagnosis, which is a much heavier and costly procedure. We are currently offering this option through a multicentric program in France, and this is the first birth originating from it.
Two-Component Signal Transduction System SaeRS Positively RegulatesStaphylococcus epidermidisGlucose Metabolism
Authors: Lou Qiang , Qi Yijun , Ma Yuanfang , Qu Di
Published: January 2014

Staphylococcus epidermidis, which is a causative pathogen of nosocomial infection, expresses its virulent traits such as biofilm and autolysis regulated by two-component signal transduction system SaeRS. In this study, we performed a proteomic analysis of differences in expression between theS. epidermidis1457 wild-type andsaeRSmutant to identify candidates regulated by saeRS using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) combined with matrix-assisted laser desorption/lonization mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Of 55 identified proteins that significantly differed in expression between the two strains, 15 were upregulated and 40 were downregulated. The downregulated proteins included enzymes related to glycolysis and TCA cycle, suggesting that glucose is not properly utilized inS. epidermidiswhensaeRSwas deleted. The study will be helpful for treatment ofS. epidermidisinfection from the viewpoint of metabolic modulation dependent on two-component signal transduction system SaeRS.
Resolution of the Generalized Eigenvalue Problem in the Neutron Diffusion Equation Discretized by the Finite Volume Method
Authors: Bernal Álvaro , Miró Rafael , Ginestar Damián , Verdú Gumersindo
Published: January 2014

Numerical methods are usually required to solve the neutron diffusion equation applied to nuclear reactors due to its heterogeneous nature. The most popular numerical techniques are the Finite Difference Method (FDM), the Coarse Mesh Finite Difference Method (CFMD), the Nodal Expansion Method (NEM), and the Nodal Collocation Method (NCM), used virtually in all neutronic diffusion codes, which give accurate results in structured meshes. However, the application of these methods in unstructured meshes to deal with complex geometries is not straightforward and it may cause problems of stability and convergence of the solution. By contrast, the Finite Element Method (FEM) and the Finite Volume Method (FVM) are easily applied to unstructured meshes. On the one hand, the FEM can be accurate for smoothly varying functions. On the other hand, the FVM is typically used in the transport equations due to the conservation of the transported quantity within the volume. In this paper, the FVM algorithm implemented in the ARB Partial Differential Equations solver has been used to discretize the neutron diffusion equation to obtain the matrices of the generalized eigenvalue problem, which has been solved by means of the SLEPc library.
The Relationship between ALA16VAL Single Gene Polymorphism and Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Atilgan Dogan , Parlaktas Bekir S. , Uluocak Nihat , Kolukcu Engin , Erdemir Fikret , Ozyurt Huseyin , Erkorkmaz Unal
Published: January 2014

Objectives. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of RCC and Ala16Val polymorphism in Turkish patients with RCC.Materials and Methods. A total of 41 patients with RCC who underwent radical or partial nephrectomy in our clinic and 50 healthy volunteers living in the same geographic area were included in this study. DNA samples from serum of RCC patients and controls were genotyped for MnSOD polymorphism analysis. Genotype ratios and allele frequencies were compared between two groups and odd ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated statistically. APvalue of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results. There was a significant difference in the MnSOD genotype distributions between the RCC patients and the controls in terms of Ala/Ala+Ala/Val and Val/Val genotypes (P=0.039). The Ala/Ala+Ala/Val genotypes were found significantly suspicious for RCC with an OR of 2.64 (95% CI = 1.06–6.69,P= 0.039). In addition, Ala allele was found significantly suspicious for RCC with an OR of 2.26 (95% CI = 1.24–4.12,P= 0.009).Conclusion. Our study indicated that MnSOD Ala16Val polymorphism may be one of the many genetic factors for renal cancer susceptibility in Turkish patients.