bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hearing Loss in an Aging American Population: Extent, Impact, and Management
Authors: Bainbridge Kathleen E. , Wallhagen Margaret I.
Published: March 2014

Despite contributing substantially to disability in the United States, age-related hearing loss is an underappreciated public health concern. Loss of hearing sensitivity has been documented in two-thirds of adults aged 70 years and older and has been associated with communication difficulties, lower health-related quality of life, and decreased physical and cognitive function. Management strategies for age-related hearing loss are costly, yet the indirect costs due to lost productivity among people with communication difficulties are also substantial and likely to grow. Hearing aids can improve health-related quality of life, but the majority of people with documented hearing loss do not report using them. Uncovering effective means to improve the utilization of hearing health care services is essential for meeting the hearing health care demands of our aging population. The importance of hearing for general well-being warrants an effort to enhance awareness among the general population of the indications of hearing loss and options for assistance.
Epigenetics: Relevance and Implications for Public Health
Authors: Rozek Laura S. , Dolinoy Dana C. , Sartor Maureen A. , Omenn Gilbert S.
Published: March 2014

Improved understanding of the multilayer regulation of the human genome has led to a greater appreciation of environmental, nutritional, and epigenetic risk factors for human disease. Chromatin remodeling, histone tail modifications, and DNA methylation are dynamic epigenetic changes responsive to external stimuli. Careful interpretation can provide insights for actionable public health through collaboration between population and basic scientists and through integration of multiple data sources. We review key findings in environmental epigenetics both in human population studies and in animal models, and discuss the implications of these results for risk assessment and public health protection. To ultimately succeed in identifying epigenetic mechanisms leading to complex phenotypes and disease, researchers must integrate the various animal models, human clinical approaches, and human population approaches while paying attention to life-stage sensitivity, to generate effective prescriptions for human health evaluation and disease prevention.
Markov Chain Model to Explain the Dynamics of Human Depression
Authors: Bhattacharya Souvik
Published: March 2014

Depression is one of the major concerns of the present generation. A Markov chain model has been used to portray and investigate this curse. Long-term behaviour of the model has been discussed. Different types of treatment strategies have been considered in this paper to identify the most powerful measure of keeping this disease from its spread in the society. This paper also focuses on the usefulness of the drugs available at present for the treatment of this disease.
The Effects on Sensorial Block, Motor Block, and Haemodynamics of Levobupivacaine at Different Temperatures Applied in the Subarachnoid Space
Authors: Nazli Bahittin , Oguzalp Huseyin , Horasanli Eyup , Gamli Mehmet , Dikmen Beyazit , Gogus Nermin
Published: March 2014

Aim. To evaluate the effects of 0.5% levobupivacaine at 37°C preheated from room temperature, on sensorial block, motor block, and haemodynamics in patients undergoing transurethral prostate resection (TUR-P).Material and Method. The patients were randomly allocated to two groups: Group I patients were injected with 3 mL 0.5% levobupivacaine solution which had been kept at room temperature for at least 24 hours and Group II patients were injected with 3 mL 0.5% levobupivacaine solution which had been kept at 37°C for at least 24 hours. The patients were examined in terms of sensorial block, motor block, haemodynamic profile, and incidence of side effects.Results. No significant difference was found between the groups in terms of demographic data. The time to reachT10sensory block and the time of starting motor block were found to be significantly shorter in Group II . The duration of sensory block overT10andT6, the duration ofL1regression, the duration of the sensory block, and the regression time of the motor blocks from 3 to 2 were found to be longer in Group II.Conclusion. The use of 0.5% levobupivacaine spinal anaesthesia heated to 37°C accelerated the start of sensory and motor block.
Numerical Solution of Nonlinear Fractional Volterra Integro-Differential Equations via Bernoulli Polynomials
Authors: Tohidi Emran , Ezadkhah M. M. , Shateyi S.
Published: March 2014

This paper presents a computational approach for solving a class of nonlinear Volterra integro-differential equations of fractional order which is based on the Bernoulli polynomials approximation. Our method consists of reducing the main problems to the solution of algebraic equations systems by expanding the required approximate solutions as the linear combination of the Bernoulli polynomials. Several examples are given and the numerical results are shown to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Steady Modeling for an Ammonia Synthesis Reactor Based on a Novel CDEAS‐LS‐SVM Model
Authors: Liu Zhuoqian , Zhang Lingbo , Xu Wei , Gu Xingsheng
Published: March 2014

A steady‐state mathematical model is built in order to represent plant behavior under stationary operating conditions. A novel modeling using LS‐SVR based on Cultural Differential Evolution with Ant Search is proposed. LS‐SVM is adopted to establish the model of the net value of ammonia. The modeling method has fast convergence speed and good global adaptability for identification of the ammonia synthesis process. The LS‐SVR model was established using the above‐mentioned method. Simulation results verify the validity of the method.
A New Safety Factor Prediction Model for Mass Concrete Surface Cracking in Early Age
Authors: Qiang Sheng , Liu Min-zhi
Published: March 2014

The temperature difference between mass concrete inside and outside is an important index to prevent the structure surface cracking, but the definition and the application criterion are not very clear till now. In this paper, the surface concrete temperature spatial gradient in 0.5 m deep is found as a more reasonable and feasible index. Then a new model, which can be used to calculate the surface safety factor simply, is deduced in three steps. First, a basic model is created under the simplest boundary condition. Then the feasibility of the basic model is analyzed under different boundary conditions and the model is improved. At last, according to the comparison of different concrete materials, the improved model is calibrated further. With the help of the proposed model, the surface safety factor can be adjusted by observing and controlling the temperature spatial gradient dynamically, which will bring convenience to designer and constructor.
Urinary Metabolomics on the Biochemical Profiles in Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia Rat Using Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Quadrupole Time-of-Flight SYNAPT High-Definition Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Miao Hua , Chen Hua , Zhang Xu , Yin Lu , Chen Dan-Qian , Cheng Xian-Long , Bai Xu , Wei Feng
Published: March 2014

Ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight synapt high-definition mass spectrometry metabolomics was used to characterize the urinary metabolic profiling of diet-induced hyperlipidaemia in a rat model. Analysis was done by orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis, correlation analysis, heat map analysis, and KEGG pathways analysis. Potential biomarkers were chosen by S-plot and were identified by accurate mass, isotopic pattern, and MS/MS fragments information. Significant differences in fatty acid, amino acid, nucleoside, and bile acid were observed, indicating the perturbations of fatty acid, amino acid, nucleoside, and bile acid metabolisms in diet-induced hyperlipidaemia rats. This study provides further insight into the metabolic profiling across a wide range of biochemical pathways in response to diet-induced hyperlipidaemia.
Energy-Related Carbon Emissions of China’s Model Environmental Cities
Authors: Lo Kevin
Published: March 2014

This paper identifies three types of model environmental cities in China and examines their levels of energy-related carbon emissions using a bottom-up accounting system. Model environmental cities are identified as those that have been recently awarded official recognition from the central government for their efforts in environmental protection. The findings show that, on average, the Low-Carbon Cities have lower annual carbon emissions, carbon intensities, and per capita emissions than the Eco-Garden Cities and the Environmental Protection Cities. Compared internationally, the Eco-Garden Cities and the Environmental Protection Cities have per capita emissions that are similar to those of American cities whereas per capita emissions from the Low-Carbon Cities are similar to those of European cities. The result indicates that addressing climate change is not a priority for some model environmental cities. Policy changes are needed to prioritize climate mitigation in these cities, considering that climate change is a cross-cutting environmental issue with wide-ranging impact.
Molecular Mechanisms of Renal Cellular Nephrotoxicity due to Radiocontrast Media
Authors: Michael Ashour , Faga Teresa , Pisani Antonio , Riccio Eleonora , Bramanti Placido , Sabbatini Massimo , Navarra Michele , Andreucci Michele
Published: March 2014

Modern iodinated radiocontrast media are all based on the triiodinated benzene ring with various chemical modifications having been made over the last few decades in order to reduce their toxicity. However, CIN remains a problem especially in patients with pre-existing renal failure.In vitrostudies have demonstrated that all RCM are cytotoxic. RCM administrationin vivomay lead to a decrease in renal medullary oxygenation leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species that may cause harmful effects to renal tissue. In addition, endothelin and adenosine release and decreased nitric oxide levels may worsen the hypoxic milieu.In vitrocell culture studies together with sparsein vivorat model data have shown that important cell signalling pathways are affected by RCM. In particular, the prosurvival and proproliferative kinases Akt and ERK1/2 have been shown to be dephosphorylated (deactivated), whilst proinflammatory/cell death molecules such as the p38 and JNK kinases and the transcription factor NF-κB may be activated by RCM, accompanied by activation of apoptotic mediators such as caspases. Increasing our knowledge of the mechanisms of RCM action may help to develop future therapies for CIN.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Depression: Scientific Evidence and Biological Mechanisms
Authors: Grosso Giuseppe , Galvano Fabio , Marventano Stefano , Malaguarnera Michele , Bucolo Claudio , Drago Filippo , Caraci Filippo
Published: March 2014

The changing of omega-6/omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the food supply of Western societies occurred over the last 150 years is thought to promote the pathogenesis of many inflammatory-related diseases, including depressive disorders. Several epidemiological studies reported a significant inverse correlation between intake of oily fish and depression or bipolar disorders. Studies conducted specifically on the association between omega-3 intake and depression reported contrasting results, suggesting that the preventive role of omega-3 PUFA may depend also on other factors, such as overall diet quality and the social environment. Accordingly, tertiary prevention with omega-3 PUFA supplement in depressed patients has reached greater effectiveness during the last recent years, although definitive statements on their use in depression therapy cannot be yet freely asserted. Among the biological properties of omega-3 PUFA, their anti-inflammatory effects and their important role on the structural changing of the brain should be taken into account to better understand the possible pathway through which they can be effective both in preventing or treating depression. However, the problem of how to correct the inadequate supply of omega-3 PUFA in the Westernized countries’ diet is a priority in order to set food and health policies and also dietary recommendations for individuals and population groups.
Feasible Path Planning for Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Minh Vu Trieu , Pumwa John
Published: March 2014

The objective of this paper is to find feasible path planning algorithms for nonholonomic vehicles including flatness, polynomial, and symmetric polynomial trajectories subject to the real vehicle dynamical constraints. Performances of these path planning methods are simulated and compared to evaluate the more realistic and smoother generated trajectories. Results show that the symmetric polynomial algorithm provides the smoothest trajectory. Therefore, this algorithm is recommended for the development of an automatic control for autonomous vehicles.
Refinements of Bounds for Neuman Means
Authors: Chu Yu-Ming , Qian Wei-Mao
Published: March 2014

We present the sharp bounds for the Neuman meansSHA,SAH,SCAandSACin terms of the arithmetic, harmonic, and contraharmonic means. Our results are the refinements or improvements of the results given by Neuman.
Phagocytized Neutrophil Fragments in the Bone Marrow: A Phenomenon Most Commonly Associated with Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Arnold Michael A. , Kahwash Samir B.
Published: March 2014

Bone marrow macrophages containing other cells, or large pieces of other cells, represent a distinctive feature of diseases such as Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and Rosai-Dorfman disease. We describe a distinct variation of phagocytic histiocyte morphology, featuring histiocytes containing predominantly fragments of neutrophil nuclei. We retrospectively reviewed initial bone marrow samples for Hodgkin lymphoma, Burkitt lymphoma, Ewing sarcoma, or evaluation for nonneoplastic conditions, scoring the presence or absence of the above-described histiocytes. We find that these histiocytes, which we term “fragmentophages,” are associated with staging marrow sampling for malignancy, especially Hodgkin lymphoma (Hodgkin lymphoma: 28/34 or 82.4%, Ewing sarcoma: 11/26 or 42.3%, Burkitt lymphoma: 4/13 or 30.8%). These cells are significantly less common in marrow samples for nonneoplastic conditions (4/21 or 19.0%). Fragmentophages are significantly associated with malignancy, especially Hodgkin lymphoma, and their recognition has the potential to provide a clue to an underlying malignancy.
Modes-of-Action Related to Repeated Dose Toxicity: Tissue-Specific Biological Roles of PPARγLigand-Dependent Dysregulation in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Al Sharif Merilin , Alov Petko , Vitcheva Vessela , Pajeva Ilza , Tsakovska Ivanka
Published: March 2014

Comprehensive understanding of the precise mode of action/adverse outcome pathway (MoA/AOP) of chemicals becomes a key step towards superseding the current repeated dose toxicity testing methodology with new generation predictive toxicology tools. The description and characterization of the toxicological MoA leading to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are of specific interest, due to its increasing incidence in the modern society. Growing evidence stresses on the PPARγligand-dependent dysregulation as a key molecular initiating event (MIE) for this adverse effect. The aim of this work was to analyze and systematize the numerous scientific data about the steatogenic role of PPARγ. Over 300 papers were ranked according to preliminary defined criteria and used as reliable and significant sources of data about the PPARγ-dependent prosteatotic MoA. A detailed analysis was performed regarding proteins which PPARγ-mediated expression changes had been confirmed to be prosteatotic by most experimental evidence. Two probable toxicological MoAs from PPARγligand binding to NAFLD were described according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) concepts: (i) PPARγactivation in hepatocytes and (ii) PPARγinhibition in adipocytes. The possible events at different levels of biological organization starting from the MIE to the organ response and the connections between them were described in details.
Do Demographic Profiles of Listed and Unlisted Households Differ? Results of a Nationwide Telephone Survey
Authors: Carey Renee N. , Reid Alison , Peters Susan , Fritschi Lin
Published: March 2014

A growing number of households are not reachable through traditional directory-based samples, which can have important implications for the representativeness of telephone surveys. The current study aims to investigate the demographic differences between households which have their telephone numbers listed or not listed in the Australian White Pages telephone directory. A total of 5,023 eligible Australian residents who were currently in paid employment participated in this study. Each respondent’s telephone number was individually matched to the residential White Pages to determine its listed status, and demographic variables were compared between those with a listed and unlisted telephone number. Those with an unlisted number were significantly more likely to be younger, to have been born in a country outside of Australia, and to live in a lower socioeconomic area than those who were listed in the White Pages. These demographic differences should be considered when undertaking telephone surveys using a White Pages sample.
Tracking Control of a Leg Rehabilitation Machine Driven by Pneumatic Artificial Muscles Using Composite Fuzzy Theory
Authors: Chang Ming-Kun
Published: March 2014

It is difficult to achieve excellent tracking performance for a two-joint leg rehabilitation machine driven by pneumatic artificial muscles (PAMs) because the system has a coupling effect, highly nonlinear and time-varying behavior associated with gas compression, and the nonlinear elasticity of bladder containers. This paper therefore proposes a T-S fuzzy theory with supervisory control in order to overcome the above problems. The T-S fuzzy theory decomposes the model of a nonlinear system into a set of linear subsystems. In this manner, the controller in the T-S fuzzy model is able to use simple linear control techniques to provide a systematic framework for the design of a state feedback controller. Then the LMI Toolbox of MATLAB can be employed to solve linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) in order to determine controller gains based on the Lyapunov direct method. Moreover, the supervisory control can overcome the coupling effect for a leg rehabilitation machine. Experimental results show that the proposed controller can achieve excellent tracking performance, and guarantee robustness to system parameter uncertainties.
On Solutions for a Generalized Differential Equation Arising in Boundary Layer Problem
Authors: Smirnov Sergey
Published: March 2014

We treat the existence and uniqueness of a solution for the generalized Blasius problem which arises in boundary layer theory. The shooting method is used in the proof of our main result. An example is included to illustrate the results.
Frequency Weighted Model Order Reduction Technique and Error Bounds for Discrete Time Systems
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Ghafoor Abdul , Sreeram Victor
Published: March 2014

Model reduction is a process of approximating higher order original models by comparatively lower order models with reasonable accuracy in order to provide ease in design, modeling and simulation for large complex systems. Generally, model reduction techniques approximate the higher order systems
for whole frequency range. However, certain applications (like controller reduction) require frequency weighted approximation, which introduce the concept of using frequency weights in model reduction techniques. Limitations of some existing frequency weighted model reduction techniques include lack of stability of reduced order models (for two sided weighting case) and frequency response error bounds. A new frequency weighted technique for balanced model reduction for discrete time systems is proposed. The proposed technique guarantees stable reduced order models even for the case when two sided weightings are present. Efficient technique for frequency weighted Gramians is also proposed. Results are compared with other existing frequency weighted model reduction techniques for discrete time systems. Moreover, the proposed technique yields frequency response error bounds.
Pelvic Incidence: A Predictive Factor for Three-Dimensional Acetabular Orientation—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Boulay Christophe , Bollini Gérard , Legaye Jean , Tardieu Christine , Prat-Pradal Dominique , Chabrol Brigitte , Jouve Jean-Luc , Duval-Beaupère Ginette , Pélissier Jacques
Published: March 2014

Acetabular cup orientation (inclination and anteversion) is a fundamental topic in orthopaedics and depends on pelvis tilt (positional parameter) emphasising the notion of a safe range of pelvis tilt. The hypothesis was that pelvic incidence (morphologic parameter) could yield a more accurate and reliable assessment than pelvis tilt. The aim was to find out a predictive equation of acetabular 3D orientation parameters which were determined by pelvic incidence to include in the model. The second aim was to consider the asymmetry between the right and left acetabulae. Twelve pelvic anatomic specimens were measured with an electromagnetic Fastrak system (Polhemus Society) providing 3D position of anatomical landmarks to allow measurement of acetabular and pelvic parameters. Acetabulum and pelvis data were correlated by a Spearman matrix. A robust linear regression analysis provided prediction of acetabulum axes. The orientation of each acetabulum could be predicted by the incidence. The incidence is correlated with the morphology of acetabula. The asymmetry of the acetabular roof was correlated with pelvic incidence. This study allowed analysis of relationships of acetabular orientation and pelvic incidence. Pelvic incidence (morphologic parameter) could determine the safe range of pelvis tilt (positional parameter) for an individual and not a group.
On Hardy-Pachpatte-Copson's Inequalities
Authors: Zhao Chang-Jian , Cheung Wing-Sum
Published: March 2014

We establish new inequalities similar to Hardy-Pachpatte-Copson’s type inequalities. These results in special cases yield some of the recent results.
Isometric Reflection Vectors and Characterizations of Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Ji Donghai , Wu Senlin
Published: March 2014

A known characterization of Hilbert spaces via isometric reflection vectors is based on the following implication: if the set of isometric reflection vectors in the unit sphereSXof a Banach spaceXhas nonempty interior inSX, thenXis a Hilbert space. Applying a recent result based on well-known theorem of Kronecker from number theory, we improve this by substantial reduction of the set of isometric reflection vectors needed in the hypothesis.
Distributed H∞ Sampled‐Data Filtering over Sensor Networks with Markovian Switching Topologies
Authors: Yang Bin , Zhu Chaoqun , Wang Zhiwen
Published: March 2014

This paper considers a distributed H∞ sampled‐data filtering problem in sensor networks with stochastically switching topologies. It is assumed that the topology switching is triggered by a Markov chain. The output measurement at each sensor is first sampled and then transmitted to the corresponding filters via a communication network. Considering the effect of a transmission delay, a distributed filter structure for each sensor is given based on the sampled data from itself and its neighbor sensor nodes. As a consequence, the distributed H∞ sampled‐data filtering in sensor networks under Markovian switching topologies is transformed into H∞ mean‐square stability problem of a Markovian jump error system with an interval time‐varying delay. By using Lyapunov Krasovskii functional and reciprocally convex approach, a new bounded real lemma (BRL) is derived, which guarantees the mean‐square stability of the error system with a desired H∞ performance. Based on this BRL, the topology‐dependent H∞ sampled‐data filters are obtained. An illustrative example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Springback of Friction Stir Welded Sheets Made of Aluminium Grades during V-Bending: An Experimental Study
Authors: Durga Rao B. , Ganesh Narayanan R.
Published: March 2014

The main aim of the present work is to study the effect of shoulder diameter, rotational speed, and welding speed on the springback performance of friction stir welded sheets. The friction stir welded sheets are made by welding 6061T6 to 5052H32, and 6061T6 to 6061T6. The springback has been evaluated after V-bending of welded sheets, involving pure bending. The relation between springback and weld zone properties like yield strength, Young’s modulus, yield strength to Young’s modulus ratio, and strain hardening exponent is identified. It is found that, with increase in shoulder diameter, rotational speed, and welding speed, the springback of friction stir welded sheets has reduced, and is independent of the material combinations. The relation between springback and weld properties change coincides with existing knowledge about springback. The friction stir welded sheets show better springback performance as compared to 6061T6 base material, but inferior to 5052H32 base material. By reducing the punch nose radius, the springback of friction stir welded sheets can be minimized. It is also concluded that, by proper tailoring of Al grades, and by alteration of weld zone properties through friction stir welding, the springback of friction stir welded sheets can be reduced considerably.
Alpha‐Asarone Protects Endothelial Cells from Injury by Angiotensin II
Authors: Shi Hai-Xia , Yang Jiajun , Yang Tao , Xue Yong-Liang , Liu Jun , Li Ya-Juan , Zhang Dan-Dan , Xu Jin-Wen , Bian Ka
Published: March 2014

α‐Asarone is the major therapeutical constituent of Acorus tatarinowii Schott. In this study, the potential protective effects of α‐asarone against endothelial cell injury induced by angiotensin II were investigated in vitro. The EA.hy926 cell line derived from human umbilical vein endothelial cells was pretreated with α‐asarone (10, 50, 100 µmol/L) for 1 h, followed by coincubation with Ang II (0.1 µmol/L) for 24 h. Intracellular nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected by fluorescent dyes, and phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) at Ser1177 was determined by Western blotting. α‐Asarone dose‐dependently mitigated the Ang II‐induced intracellular NO reduction (P < 0.01 versus model) and ROS production (P < 0.01 versus model). Furthermore, eNOS phosphorylation (Ser1177) by acetylcholine was significantly inhibited by Ang II, while pretreatment for 1 h with α‐asarone partially prevented this effect (P < 0.05 versus model). Additionally, cell viability determined by the MTT [3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay (105~114.5% versus control, P > 0.05) was not affected after 24 h of incubation with α‐asarone at 1–100 µmol/L. Therefore, α‐asarone protects against Ang II‐mediated damage of endothelial cells and may be developed to prevent injury to cardiovascular tissues.
Early Trends in Cystatin C and Outcomes in Patients with Cirrhosis and Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Belcher Justin M. , Sanyal Arun J. , Garcia-Tsao Guadalupe , Ansari Naheed , Coca Steven G. , Shlipak Michael G. , Parikh Chirag R.
Published: March 2014

Background. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and severe complication in patients with cirrhosis. Progression of AKI to a higher stage associates with increased mortality. Intervening early in AKI when renal dysfunction is worsening may improve outcomes. However, serum creatinine correlates poorly with glomerular filtration in patients with cirrhosis and fluctuations may mask progression early in the course of AKI. Cystatin C, a low-molecular-weight cysteine proteinase inhibitor, is a potentially more accurate marker of glomerular filtration.Methods. We conducted a prospective multicenter study in patients with cirrhosis comparing changes in cystatin and creatinine immediately following onset of AKI as predictors of a composite endpoint of dialysis or mortality.Results. Of 106 patients, 37 (35%) met the endpoint. Cystatin demonstrated less variability between samples than creatinine. Patients were stratified into four groups reflecting changes in creatinine and cystatin: both unchanged or decreased 38 (36%) (Scr−/CysC−); only cystatin increased 25 (24%) (Scr−/CysC+); only creatinine increased 15 (14%) (Scr+/CysC−); and both increased 28 (26%) (Scr+/CysC+). With Scr−/CysC− as the reference, in both instances where cystatin rose, Scr−/CysC+ and Scr+/CysC+, the primary outcome was significantly more frequent in multivariate analysis,P=0.02and0.03, respectively. However, when only creatinine rose, outcomes were similar to the reference group.Conclusions. Changes in cystatin levels early in AKI are more closely associated with eventual dialysis or mortality than creatinine and may allow more rapid identification of patients at risk for adverse outcomes.
An Embedded Laser Marking Controller Based on ARM and FPGA Processors
Authors: Dongyun Wang , Xinpiao Ye
Published: March 2014

Laser marking is an important branch of the laser information processing technology. The existing laser marking machine based on PC and WINDOWS operating system, are large and inconvenient to move. Still, it cannot work outdoors or in other harsh environments. In order to compensate for the above mentioned disadvantages, this paper proposed an embedded laser marking controller based on ARM and FPGA processors. Based on the principle of laser galvanometer scanning marking, the hardware and software were designed for the application. Experiments showed that this new embedded laser marking controller controls the galvanometers synchronously and could achieve precise marking.
Paraplegia after Gastrectomy in a Patient with Cervical Disc Herniation: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Zhang Qingfu , Jiang Wei , Zhou Quanhong , Wang Guangyan , Zhao Linlin
Published: March 2014

Paraplegia is a rare postoperative complication. We present a case of acute paraplegia after elective gastrectomy surgery because of cervical disc herniation. The 73-year-old man has the medical history of cervical spondylitis with only symptom of temporary pain in neck and shoulder. Although the patient’s neck was cautiously preserved by using the Discopo, an acute paraplegia emerged at about 10 hours after the operation. Severe compression of the spinal cord by herniation of the C4-C5 cervical disc was diagnosed and emergency surgical decompression was performed immediately. Unfortunately the patient showed limited improvement in neurologic deficits even after 11 months.
The Empirical Cressie-Read Test Statistics for Longitudinal Generalized Linear Models
Authors: Zhang Junhua , Tian Ruiqin , Yang Suigen , Feng Sanying
Published: March 2014

For the marginal longitudinal generalized linear models (GLMs), we develop the empirical Cressie-Read (ECR) test statistic approach which has been proposed for the independent identically distributed (i.i.d.) case. The ECR test statistic includes empirical likelihood as a special case. By adopting this ECR test statistic approach and taking into account the within-subject correlation, the efficiency theory results of estimation and testing based on ECR are established under some regularity conditions. Although a working correlation matrix is assumed, there is no need to estimate the nuisance parameters in the working correlation matrix based on the quadratic inference function (QIF). Therefore, the proposed ECR test statistic is asymptotically a standardχ2limit under the null hypothesis. It is shown that the proposed method is more efficient even when the working correlation matrix is misspecified. We also evaluate the finite sample performance of the proposed methods via simulation studies and a real data analysis.
Effect of Chromium(VI) Toxicity on Enzymes of Nitrogen Metabolism in Clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonolobaL.)
Authors: Sangwan Punesh , Kumar Vinod , Joshi U. N.
Published: March 2014

Heavy metals are the intrinsic component of the environment with both essential and nonessential types. Their excessive levels pose a threat to plant growth and yield. Also, some heavy metals are toxic to plants even at very low concentrations. The present investigation (a pot experiment) was conducted to determine the affects of varying chromium(VI) levels (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mg chromium(VI) kg−1soil in the form of potassium dichromate) on the key enzymes of nitrogen metabolism in clusterbean. Chromium treatment adversely affect nitrogenase, nitrate reductase, nitrite reductase, glutamine synthetase, and glutamate dehydrogenase in various plant organs at different growth stages as specific enzyme activity of these enzymes decreased with an increase in chromium(VI) levels from 0 to 2.0 mg chromium(VI) kg−1soil and 4.0 mg chromium(VI) kg−1soil was found to be lethal to clusterbean plants. In general, the enzyme activity increased with advancement of growth to reach maximum at flowering stage and thereafter decreased at grain filling stage.
Optimizing Operation of Water Supply Reservoir: The Role of Constraints
Authors: Zhao Tongtiegang , Zhao Jianshi
Published: March 2014

This paper presents a mathematical analysis of water supply reservoir operation. The analysis illustrates one‐stage, two‐stage, and three‐stage formulations of multiple‐period reservoir operation depending on the effects of operational constraints. There is a one‐stage model when storage capacity constraints are nonbinding. Release decisions depend on total water availability and exhibit equal marginal utilities. Binding upper (lower) storage capacity constraint blocks the effect of decreased (increased) water availability in the subsequent stages on release decisions in the preceding stages. When one storage capacity constraint is binding, multiple periods become two stages and a gap occurs between marginal utilities of water. When there are one upper and one lower binding storage capacity constraints, reservoir operation is characterized as a three‐stage model. Effects of forecast uncertainty and ending storage on reservoir operation are affected by reservoir storage capacity. When the storage capacity constraints are nonbinding, the reservoir can regulate streamflow in an extended timeframe, and current release decision is affected by forecast uncertainty of total streamflow and ending storage. When the storage capacity constraints are binding, the reservoir can regulate streamflow only in a short timeframe, and current release decision is primarily affected by forecast uncertainty of streamflow in the current stage.
Another Class of Distances and Continuous Quasi-Distances in Product Spaces
Authors: Peppo Catherine
Published: March 2014

We construct a class of continuous quasi-distances in a product of metric spaces and show that, generally, when the parameterλ(as shown in the paper) is positive,dis a distance and whenλ<0,dis only a continuous quasi-distance, but not a distance. It is remarkable that the same result in relation to the sign ofλwas found for two other classes of continuous quasi-distances (see Peppo (2010a, 2010b) and Peppo (2011)). This conclusion is due to the fact thatEis a product space. For the purposes of our main result, a notion of density in metric spaces is introduced.
Ophthalmic Drug Dosage Forms: Characterisation and Research Methods
Authors: Baranowski Przemysław , Karolewicz Bożena , Gajda Maciej , Pluta Janusz
Published: March 2014

This paper describes hitherto developed drug forms for topical ocular administration, that is, eye drops, ointments,in situgels, inserts, multicompartment drug delivery systems, and ophthalmic drug forms with bioadhesive properties. Heretofore, many studies have demonstrated that new and more complex ophthalmic drug forms exhibit advantage over traditional ones and are able to increase the bioavailability of the active substance by, among others, reducing the susceptibility of drug forms to defense mechanisms of the human eye, extending contact time of drug with the cornea, increasing the penetration through the complex anatomical structure of the eye, and providing controlled release of drugs into the eye tissues, which allows reducing the drug application frequency. The rest of the paper describes recommendedin vitroandin vivostudies to be performed for various ophthalmic drugs forms in order to assess whether the form is acceptable from the perspective of desired properties and patient’s compliance.
A Rare Localization of Ectopic Pregnancy: Intramyometrial Pregnancy in Twin Pregnancy following IVF
Authors: Boukhanni Lahcen , Ait Benkaddour Yassir , Bassir Ahlam , Aboulfalah Abdrahim , Asmouki Hamid , Soummani Abderraouf
Published: March 2014

Intramyometrial pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy. It makes a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. If misdiagnosed the intramyometrial pregnancy can cause a uterine rupture and become life-threatening condition. We report a case of intramyometrial pregnancy in twin pregnancy following IVF with spontaneous abortion of the first twin At 9 weeks of gestation. The 10 weeks scan showed a normal fetus which was described to be highly localized in the uterus but the diagnosis of intramyometrial pregnancy was not suspected. The patient was admitted at 14 weeks of gestation with pelvic pain, hemorrhage, and shock. She was operated and the diagnosis of ruptured intramyometrial pregnancy was done and managed conservatively. This case illustrates the diagnostic difficulties of intramyometrial pregnancy. We discuss pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of this exceptional form of ectopic pregnancy.
Practical Stability of Impulsive Discrete Systems with Time Delays
Authors: Sun Liangji , Liu Chengyan , Li Xiaodi
Published: March 2014

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the practical stability problem for impulsive discrete systems with time delays. By using Lyapunov functions and the Razumikhin-type technique, some criteria which guarantee the practical stability and uniformly asymptotically practical stability of the addressed systems are provided. Finally, two examples are presented to illustrate the criteria.
Updates on the Clinical Evidenced Herb‐Warfarin Interactions
Authors: Ge Beikang , Zhang Zhen , Zuo Zhong
Published: March 2014

Increasing and inadvertent use of herbs makes herb‐drug interactions a focus of research. Concomitant use of warfarin, a highly efficacious oral anticoagulant, and herbs causes major safety concerns due to the narrow therapeutic window of warfarin. This paper presents an update overview of clinical findings regarding herb‐warfarin interaction, highlighting clinical outcomes, severity of documented interactions, and quality of clinical evidence. Among thirty‐eight herbs, Cannabis, Chamomile, Cranberry, Garlic, Ginkgo, Grapefruit, Lycium, Red clover, and St. John’s wort were evaluated to have major severity interaction with warfarin. Herbs were also classified on account of the likelihood of their supporting evidences for interaction. Four herbs were considered as highly probable to interact with warfarin (level I), three were estimated as probable (level II), and ten and twenty‐one were possible (level III) and doubtful (level IV), respectively. The general mechanism of herb‐warfarin interaction almost remains unknown, yet several pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic factors were estimated to influence the effectiveness of warfarin. Based on limited literature and information reported, we identified corresponding mechanisms of interactions for a small amount of “interacting herbs.” In summary, herb‐warfarin interaction, especially the clinical effects of herbs on warfarin therapy should be further investigated through multicenter studies with larger sample sizes.
Totally Umbilical Lightlike Hypersurfaces in Robertson-Walker Spacetimes
Authors: Dong Junhong , Liu Ximin
Published: March 2014

We study the problem of lightlike hypersurface immersed into Robertson-Walker (RW) spacetimes in this paper, where the screen bundle of the hypersurface has constant higher order mean curvature. We consider the following question: under what conditions is the compact lightlike hypersurface totally umbilical? Our approach is based on the relationship between the lightlike hypersurface with its screen bundle and the Minkowski formulae for the screen bundle.
Transforming Growth Factor-β as a Therapeutic Target in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Giannelli Gianluigi , Villa Erica , Lahn Michael
Published: March 2014

Hepatocellular carcinoma arises in patients as a consequence of long-standing preexisting liver illnesses, including viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, or metabolic disease. In such preexisting liver diseases, TGF-β plays an important role in orchestrating a favorable microenvironment for tumor cell growth and promoting epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). TGF-β signaling promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by two mechanisms: first, via an intrinsic activity as an autocrine or paracrine growth factor and, second, via an extrinsic activity by inducing microenvironment changes, including cancer-associated fibroblasts, T regulatory cells, and inflammatory mediators. Although there is an increasing understanding on how TGF-β signaling is associated with tumor progression in hepatocellular carcinoma, it is not clear whether TGF-β signaling is limited to a certain subgroup of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma or is a key driver of hepatocellular carcinoma during the entire tumorigenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Inhibitors of the TGF-β signaling have been shown to block hepatocellular carcinoma growth and progression by modulating EMT in different experimental models, leading to the clinical investigation of the TGF-β inhibitor LY2157299 monohydrate in hepatocellular carcinoma. Preliminary results from a phase II clinical trial have shown improved clinical outcome and also changes consistent with a reduction of EMT. Cancer Res; 74(7); 1890–4. ©2014 AACR.
Factors Influencing the Retrograde Labeling of Retinal Ganglion Cells with Fluorogold in an Animal Optic Nerve Crush Model
Authors: Huang Tzu-Lun , Huang Sun-Ping , Chang Chung-Hsing , Lin Kung-Hung , Sheu Min-Muh , Tsai Rong-Kung
Published: March 2014

Purpose: To investigate whether different crush durations or a different fluorogold (FG) injection timing can affect the efficiency of FG retrograde labeling of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in the optic nerve (ON) crush model. Methods: We performed the ON crush in rats with a clip at different durations or a jewel forceps to compare the effects of different crush methods with FG staining. RGC density was compared between the FG injection 1 week before the sacrifice of the animals (group A) and the injection before the crush experiment (group B). Double staining with CD11b and FG in the retinal sections was conducted to investigate the relationship between the overcounting of RGCs and microglia. Results: The FG-stained particles were significantly decreased at the distal part of the crush site compared to the proximal site of the ON with a crush duration of over 30 s or when crushed with the jewel forceps. Two weeks after ON crush, the RGC count was higher both in the central and mid-peripheral retinas in group B. The percentage of CD11b-stained cells among the FG-stained cells in the RGC layer of retinas in group B was higher than that of group A (34% in group B vs. 4% in group A, p = 0.0001). Overcounting of RGC density in group B was due to additional microglia with FG engulfing. Conclusions: Our results suggest that each laboratory should test its setting conditions to avoid factors influencing the RGC density measurement before conducting ON crush experiments. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Human Corneal Epithelial Cells Produce Antimicrobial Peptides LL-37 and β-Defensins in Response to Heat-Killed Candida albicans
Authors: Hua Xia , Yuan Xiaoyong , Tang Xin , Li Zhijie , Pflugfelder Stephen C. , Li De-Quan
Published: March 2014

Aims: To explore the innate response of human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) exposed to fungus by producing antimicrobial peptides LL-37 and β-defensins. Methods: Primary HCECs were treated with heat-killed Candida albicans (HKCA) at different doses (103-106 cells/ml) for 2-48 h. The cells were subjected to total RNA extraction, reverse transcription and quantitative real-time PCR for mRNA expression. Cells treated for 48 h were used for immunofluorescent staining and ELISA. Results: Human LL-37 and β-defensins (hBDs) 1-4 were detected in normal HCECs. The mRNA expression of LL-37, hBD2, and hBD3 was dose-dependently induced by HKCA with their peak levels at 4 h. HKCA (106 cells/ml) stimulated the mRNA of LL-37, hBD2, and hBD3 4.33 ± 1.81, 3.75 ± 1.31, and 4.91 ± 1.09 fold, respectively, in HCECs. The stimulated production of LL-37, hBD2, and hBD3 by HKCA was confirmed at protein levels by immunofluorescent staining and ELISA. The protein production of LL-37, hBD2, and hBD3 significantly increased to 109.1 ± 18.2 pg/ml, 4.33 ± 1.67 ng/ml, and 296.9 ± 81.8 pg/ml, respectively, in culture medium of HCECs exposed to HKCA (106 cells/ml) compared to untreated HCECs. Conclusions: HCECs produce antimicrobial peptides, LL-37, hBD2 and hBD3, in response to stimulation of HKCA, which suggests a novel innate immune mechanism of the ocular surface in defense against fungal invasion.
Targeted Overexpression of Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase-4 Modifies Post–Myocardial Infarction Remodeling in Mice
Authors: Zavadzkas Juozas A. , Stroud Robert E. , Bouges Shenikqua , Mukherjee Rupak , Jones Jeffrey R. , Patel Risha K. , McDermott Paul J. , Spinale Francis G.
Published: March 2014

Rationale:

Myocardial infarction (MI) causes an imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) and is associated with adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling. A uniform reduction in TIMP-4 post-MI has been observed.

Objective:

To examine post-MI remodeling with cardiac-restricted overexpression of TIMP-4, either through a transgenic or viral delivery approach.

Methods and Results:

MI was induced in mice and then randomized to targeted injection of an adenoviral construct (10 μL; 8×10
9
plaque forming units/mL) encoding green fluorescent protein (GFP) and the full-length human TIMP-4 (Ad-GFP-TIMP4) or GFP. A transgenic construct with cardiac-restricted overexpression TIMP-4 (hTIMP-4exp) was used in a parallel set of studies. LV end-diastolic volume, an index of LV remodeling, increased by >60% from baseline at 5 days post-MI and by >100% at 21 days post-MI in the Ad-GFP only group. However, LV dilation was reduced by ≈50% in both the Ad-GFP-TIMP4 and hTIMP-4exp groups at these post-MI time points. LV ejection fraction was improved with either Ad-GFP-TIMP-4 or hTIMP-4exp. Fibrillar collagen expression and content were increased within the MI region with both TIMP-4 interventions, suggestive of matrix stabilization.

Conclusions:

This study is the first to demonstrate that selective myocardial targeting for TIMP-4 induction through either a viral or transgenic approach favorably altered the course of adverse LV remodeling post-MI. Thus, localized induction of endogenous matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors, such as TIMP-4, holds promise as a means to interrupt the progression of post-MI remodeling.