bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis with Ectoine Containing Nasal Spray and Eye Drops in Comparison with Azelastine Containing Nasal Spray and Eye Drops or with Cromoglycic Acid Containing Nasal Spray
Authors: Werkhäuser Nina , Bilstein Andreas , Sonnemann Uwe
Published: June 2014

Objectives. Allergic rhinitis is a common disease with increasing prevalence and high impact on economic burden and comorbidities. As treatment with pharmacological drugs is not always satisfactory due to side effects and incomplete efficacy, alternative treatment strategies are needed. Ectoine is an osmolyte with membrane stabilizing and inflammation reducing capacities. Nasal spray and eye drops containing ectoine are promising new treatment regimens for allergic rhinitis sufferers. Design and Methods. The current two noninterventional trials evaluated the efficacy and safety of ectoine containing nasal spray and eye drops for treating allergic rhinitis in comparison with either azelastine or cromoglycic acid containing products. Nasal and ocular symptom developments as well as judgment of tolerability and efficacy were assessed both by investigators and patients over a time period of one to two weeks. Results. Both trials confirmed that ectoine containing products reduced nasal and ocular symptoms in allergic rhinitis patients. Results clearly demonstrated good safety profiles of the ectoine products comparable to those of azelastine and even better to those of cromoglycate products. Conclusion. Ectoine containing nasal spray and eye drops are interesting new treatment strategies for sufferers of allergic rhinitis, combining both good efficacy and absence of side effects.
In VitroInhibition of Hepatitis C Virus by Antisense Oligonucleotides in PBMC Compared to Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Youssef Samar Samir , Fahmy Ahmed Mohamed , Omran Moataza Hassan , Mohamed Amr Saad , El Desouki Mohamed Ali , El-Awady Mostafa K.
Published: June 2014

Aim.To assess the efficiency of phosphorothioate antisense oligodeoxynucleotide 1 (S-ODN1) on HCV translation inhibition in PBMC compared to hepatoma cellsin vitrofor the first time.Materials and Methods.The study included 34 treatment naive HCV patients. IRES domain III and IV sequence variations were tested in 45 clones from 9 HCV patients. PBMC of HCV positive patients were subjected to S-ODNin vitro. Concomitantly HepG2 cells infected by the same patient’s serum were also treated with S-ODN1 for 24 and 48 hours. Cellular RNA was tested for HCV plus and minus strands by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).Results.Sequence variations were seen in HCV IRES domain III only while domain IV was conserved among all the tested patient’s clones. S-ODN1 successfully inhibited HCV translation in HepG2 cells, while in PBMC inhibition was partial.Conclusion.HCV IRES domain IV is more conserved than domain IIId in genotype 4 HCV patients. S-ODN against HCV IRES domain IV was not efficient to inhibit HCV translation in PBMC under the study conditions. Further studies testing other S-ODN targeting other HCV IRES domains in PBMC should be done.
Effects of Different Enzymes and Concentrations in the Production of Clarified Lemon Juice
Authors: Uçan Filiz , Akyildiz Asiye , Ağçam Erdal
Published: June 2014

Lemon juice obtained from Interdonato variety was treated with different enzymes at specific concentrations as depectinization processes to produce clear lemon juice and its concentrates. In addition, the best condition obtained from laboratory treatments was carried out in the local fruit juice plant. Effects of the processing steps on some quality parameters were investigated during the lemon juice production and the obtained concentrates were stored at −25°C for 180 days. The results showed that Novozym 33095 had the best depectinization effectiveness. Total pectin content of lemon juices decreased rapidly following the enzyme treatment and could not be detected following the filtration. Viscosity values decreased after pulp separation and the largest reduction was observed with the filtration. At the end of filtration in 40 μL/100 mL concentrations of each of the three enzymes, values of residual pectinmethylesterase (PME) activity were found to be in the lowest amounts.
Analysis of Motorcyclist Riding Behaviour on Speed Table
Authors: Yuen Choon Wah , Karim Mohamed Rehan , Saifizul Ahmad
Published: June 2014

This paper focuses on the study of the change of various types of riding behaviour, such as speed, brake force, and throttle force applied, when they ride across the speed table. An instrumented motorcycle equipped with various types of sensor, on-board camera, and data logger was used in acquiring the traffic data in the research. Riders were instructed to ride across two speed tables and the riding data were then analyzed to study the behaviour change from different riders. The results from statistical analysis showed that the riding characteristics such as speed, brake force, and throttle force applied are influenced by distance from hump, riding experience, and travel mileage of riders. Riders tend to apply higher brake intensity at distance point 50 m before the speed table and release the braking at point −10 m after the hump. In short, speed table has different rates of influence towards riding behaviour on different factors, such as distance from hump and different riders’ attributes.
The Positive Effects of One-Hour Intravenous Administration of Bortezomib on Peripheral Neuropathy in Multiple Myeloma Patients
Authors: Jung Joo Young , Kim Ho Young , Han Boram , Choi Dae Ro , Zang Dae Young , Kim Hyo Jung
Published: June 2014

Bortezomib-induced peripheral neuropathy (BiPN) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients is a common and serious side effect. Currently, it has been reported that subcutaneous (SC) administration of bortezomib decreases the incidence of BiPN as compared to standard intravenous (IV) bolus injection without any differences in efficacy. However, there are reports of severe injection site reaction following SC administration of bortezomib. The aim of this study was to evaluate the response rate and incidence of BiPN following one-hour IV infusion of bortezomib. The data was retrospectively collected from MM patients who had been treated with IV administration of bortezomib for one hour. Twenty-three patients were evaluated (median age 72 years, 13 males). The median number of treatment cycles was 5 (range 2–10). The cumulative bortezomib dose was 26.0 mg/m2(14.3–66.3) and percent of actual per expected cumulative dose was 90% (50–100). The overall response (complete response plus partial response) rate was 65%. The incidence of BiPN was 57% (n= 13) and incidence of severe neuropathy was 4% (n= 1). One-hour IV infusion of bortezomib was an effective regimen for MM with reduced incidence of severe BiPN. This route of administration of bortezomib could be an alternative mode of delivery for patients with severe injection site reactions following SC administration.
Dynamical Behaviors of Rumor Spreading Model with Control Measures
Authors: Zhao Xia-Xia , Wang Jian-Zhong
Published: June 2014

Rumor has no basis in fact and flies around. And in general, it is propagated for a certain motivation, either for business, economy, or pleasure. It is found that the web does expose us to more rumor and increase the speed of the rumors spread. Corresponding to these new ways of spreading, the government should carry out some measures, such as issuing message by media, punishing the principal spreader, and enhancing management of the internet. In order to assess these measures, dynamical models without and with control measures are established. Firstly, for two models, equilibria and the basic reproduction number of models are discussed. More importantly, numerical simulation is implemented to assess control measures of rumor spread between individuals-to-individuals and medium-to-individuals. Finally, it is found that the amount of message released by government has the greatest influence on the rumor spread. The reliability of government and the cognizance ability of the public are more important. Besides that, monitoring the internet to prevent the spread of rumor is more important than deleting messages in media which already existed. Moreover, when the minority of people are punished, the control effect is obvious.
Hemoperitoneum from Corpus Luteal Cyst Rupture: A Practical Approach in Emergency Room
Authors: Fiaschetti Valeria , Ricci Aurora , Scarano Angela Lia , Liberto Valeria , Citraro Daniele , Arduini Silvia , Sorrenti Giuseppe , Simonetti Giovanni
Published: June 2014

Corpus luteum cyst rupture with consequent hemoperitoneum is a common disorder in women in their reproductive age. This condition should be promptly recognized and treated because a delayed diagnosis may significantly reduce women’s fertility and intra-abdominal bleeding may be life-threatening. Many imaging modalities play a key role in the diagnosis of acute pelvic pain from gynecological causes. Ultrasound study (USS) is usually the first imaging technique for initial evaluation. USS is used to confirm or to exclude the presence of intraperitoneal fluid but it has some limitations in the identification of the bleeding source. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) is the imaging modality which could be used in the acute setting in order to recognize gynecological emergencies and to establish a correct management. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) nowadays is the most useful technique for studying the pelvis but its low availability and the long acquisition time of the images limit its usefulness in characterization of acute gynecological complications. We report a case of a young patient with hemoperitoneum from hemorrhagic corpus luteum correctly identified by transabdominal USS and contrast-enhanced CT.
Unsymmetrical Heptamethine Dyes for NIR Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Geiger Thomas , Schoger Iuliia , Rentsch Daniel , Véron Anna Christina , Oswald Frédéric , Meyer Toby , Nüesch Frank
Published: June 2014

Seven unsymmetrical heptamethine dyes with carboxylic acid functionality were synthesized and characterized. These near-infrared dyes exhibit outstanding photophysical properties depending on their heterocyclic moieties and molecular structure. As proof of principle, the dyes were used as photosensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells. Using the most promising dye, an overall conversion efficiency of 1.22% and an almost colorless solar cell were achieved.
Determination of Stress Intensity Factors in Low Pressure Turbine Rotor Discs
Authors: Vasovic Ivana , Maksimovic Stevan , Maksimovic Katarina , Stupar Slobodan , Bakic Gordana , Maksimovic Mirko
Published: June 2014

An attention in this paper is focused on the stress analysis and the determination of fracture mechanics parameters in low pressure (LP) turbine rotor discs and on developing analytic expressions for stress intensity factors at the critical location of LP steam turbine disc. Critical locations such as keyway and dovetail area experienced stress concentration leading to crack initiation. Major concerns for the power industry are determining the critical locations with one side and fracture mechanics parameters with the other side. For determination of the critical locations in LP turbine rotor disc conventional finite elements are used here. For this initial crack length and during crack growth it is necessary to determine SIFs. In fatigue crack growth process it is necessary to have analytic formulas for the stress intensity factor. To determine analytic formula for stress intensity factor (SIF) of cracked turbine rotor disc special singular finite elements are used. Using discrete values of SIFs which correspond to various crack lengths analytic formula of SIF in polynomial forms is derived here. For determination of SIF in this paper, combined J‐integral approach and singular finite elements are used. The interaction of mechanical and thermal effects was correlated in terms of the fracture toughness.
The Application of Adaptive Backstepping Sliding Mode for Hybrid Humanoid Robot Arm Trajectory Tracking Control
Authors: Qin Li , Liu Fucai , Liang Lihuan
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a methodology of the dynamic analysis and control for a novel hybrid humanoid robot arm. The hybrid humanoid robot arm under consideration consists of a spherical parallel manipulator (SPM) connecting two revolute pairs in series form. The dynamic model of the hybrid humanoid robot arm has been set up based on the Lie group and Lie algebra combined with the principle of virtual work, which can avoid the processing of constraint reaction and the division of logic open chains, as well as a great quantity of differential operation. Aiming at the parameter uncertainties and disturbances, an adaptive backstepping sliding mode controller is developed. Compared with PD control in trajectory tracking simulation, the results show the advantage of the controller.
Damping Effects Induced by a Mass Moving along a Pendulum
Authors: Gandino E. , Marchesiello S. , Bellino A. , Fasana A. , Garibaldi L.
Published: June 2014

The experimental study of damping in a time-varying inertia pendulum is presented. The system consists of a disk travelling along an oscillating pendulum: large swinging angles are reached, so that its equation of motion is not only time-varying but also nonlinear. Signals are acquired from a rotary sensor, but some remarks are also proposed as regards signals measured by piezoelectric or capacitive accelerometers. Time-varying inertia due to the relative motion of the mass is associated with the Coriolis-type effects appearing in the system, which can reduce and also amplify the oscillations. The analytical model of the pendulum is introduced and an equivalent damping ratio is estimated by applying energy considerations. An accurate model is obtained by updating the viscous damping coefficient in accordance with the experimental data. The system is analysed through the application of a subspace-based technique devoted to the identification of linear time-varying systems: the so-called short-time stochastic subspace identification (ST-SSI). This is a very simple method recently adopted for estimating the instantaneous frequencies of a system. In this paper, the ST-SSI method is demonstrated to be capable of accurately estimating damping ratios, even in the challenging cases when damping may turn to negative due to the Coriolis-type effects, thus causing amplifications of the system response.
DEM Study of Wet Cohesive Particles in the Presence of Liquid Bridges in a Gas Fluidized Bed
Authors: He Yurong , Peng Wengen , Wang Tianyu , Yan Shengnan
Published: June 2014

A modified discrete element method (DEM) was constructed by compositing an additional liquid‐bridge module into the traditional soft‐sphere interaction model. Simulations of particles with and without liquid bridges are conducted in a bubbling fluidized bed. The geometry of the simulated bed is the same as the one in Müller’s experiment (Müller et al., 2008). A comparison between the dry and the wet particular systems is carried out on the bubble behavior, the bed fluctuation, and the mixing process. The bubble in the dry system possesses a regular round shape and falling of scattered particles exists while the bubble boundary of the wet particles becomes rough with branches of agglomerates stretching into it. The mixing of the dry system is quicker than that of the wet system. Several interparticle liquid contents are applied in this work to find their influence on the kinetic characteristic of the wet particle flow. With an increase of liquid content, the mixing process costs more time to be completed. Symmetrical profiles of the velocity and granular temperature are found for two low liquid contents (0.001% and 0.01%), while it is antisymmetrical for the highest liquid content (0.1%).
Resolution of Mild Ganciclovir-Resistant Cytomegalovirus Disease with Reduced-Dose Cidofovir and CMV-Hyperimmune Globulin
Authors: Patel Samir J. , Kuten Samantha A. , Knight Richard J. , Hong Dana M. , Gaber A. Osama
Published: June 2014

Ganciclovir-resistant cytomegalovirus (CMV) is associated with significant morbidity in solid organ transplant recipients. Management of ganciclovir-resistant CMV may be complicated by nephrotoxicity which is commonly observed with recommended therapies and/or rejection induced by “indirect” viral effects or reduction of immunosuppression. Herein, we report a series of four high serologic risk (donor CMV positive/recipient CMV negative) kidney transplant patients diagnosed with ganciclovir-resistant CMV disease. All patients initially developed “breakthrough” viremia while still receiving valganciclovir prophylaxis after transplant and were later confirmed to exhibit UL97 mutations after failing to eradicate virus on adequate dosages of valganciclovir. The patients were subsequently and successfully treated with reduced-dose (1-2 mg/kg) cidofovir and CMV-hyperimmune globulin, given in 2-week intervals. In addition, all patients exhibited stable renal function after completion of therapy, and none experienced acute rejection. The combination of reduced-dose cidofovir and CMV-hyperimmune globulin appeared to be a safe and effective regimen in patients with mild disease due to ganciclovir-resistant CMV.
The Importance of a Late First Trimester Placental Sonogram in Patients at Risk of Abnormal Placentation
Authors: Moretti Felipe , Merziotis Maria , Ferraro Zachary M. , Oppenheimer Lawrence , Fung Kee Fung Karen
Published: June 2014

Background. Placenta accreta is a potentially life-threatening obstetrical condition and is responsible for many emergency Caesarean hysterectomies. Early prenatal diagnosis may help minimize maternal morbidity and mortality. This report highlights risk factors, early diagnostic findings and complications associated with placenta accreta, and the role of first trimester sonography in diagnosis.Case. A 38-year-old pregnant woman, G2P1L1 with history of one previous Caesarean section, presented with vaginal bleeding at 13 weeks’ gestation. Ultrasound examination was highly suspicious of placenta previa with accreta. During an earlier 12-week scan for nuchal translucency measurement, the placenta was suboptimally visualized. She was counselled regarding potential maternal and fetal complications as well as management options. At 33 weeks’ gestation Caesarean hysterectomy was performed due to vaginal bleeding.Conclusion. Early ultrasound screening in high-risk patients may be advantageous in order to identify placenta accreta and conduct appropriate patient counseling regarding risks and management options.
In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Sol‐Gel Derived TiO2 Coatings Based on a Variety of Precursors and Synthesis Conditions
Authors: Marycz Krzysztof , Krzak Justyna , Urbański Wiktor , Pezowicz Celina
Published: June 2014

The effect of synthesis way of TiO2 coatings on biocompatibility of transplanted materials using an in vitro and in vivo rat model was investigated. TiO2 layers were synthesized by a nonaqueous sol‐gel dip‐coating method on stainless steel 316L substrates applying two different precursors and their combination. Morphology and topography of newly formed biomaterials were determined as well as chemical composition and elemental distribution of a surface samples. In vitro tests were conducted by adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells cultured on TiO2 coatings and stainless steel without coatings to assess the bioreactivity of obtained materials. A positive biological effect of TiO2/316L/1 coatings—based on titanium(IV) ethoxide—was found in both in vitro and in vivo models. The TiO2/316L/1 exhibited the highest roughness and the lowest titanium concentration in TiO2 than TiO2/316L/2—based on titanium(IV) propoxide and TiO2/316L/3—based on both above‐mentioned precursors. The proper fibroblast‐like morphology and higher proliferation rate of cells cultured on TiO2/316L/1 were observed when compared to the other biomaterials. No inflammatory response in the bone surrounding implant covered by each of the obtained TiO2 was present. Our results showed that improvement of routinely used stainless steel 316L with TiO2/316L/1 layer can stimulate beneficial biological response.
Association of Levels of Antibodies from Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Extracellular Proteins of Food and Probiotic Bacteria
Authors: Hevia Arancha , López Patricia , Suárez Ana , Jacquot Claudine , Urdaci María C. , Margolles Abelardo , Sánchez Borja
Published: June 2014

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an autoimmune disease characterized by a chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract mucosa and is related to an abnormal immune response to commensal bacteria. Our aim of the present work has been to explore the levels of antibodies (IgG and IgA) raised against extracellular proteins produced by LAB and its association with IBD. We analyzed, by Western-blot and ELISA, the presence of serum antibodies (IgA and IgG) developed against extracellular protein fractions produced by different food bacteria from the generaBifidobacteriumandLactobacillus. We used a sera collection consisting of healthy individuals (HC,n=50), Crohn's disease patients (CD,n=37), and ulcerative colitis patients (UC,n=15). Levels of IgA antibodies developed against a cell-wall hydrolase fromLactobacillus caseisubsp.rhamnosusGG (CWH) were significantly higher in the IBD group (P<0.002;n=52). The specificity of our measurements was confirmed by measuring IgA antibodies developed against the CWH peptide 365-VNTSNQTAAVSAS-377. IBD patients appeared to have different immune response to food bacteria. This paper sets the basis for developing systems for early detection of IBD, based on the association of high levels of antibodies developed against extracellular proteins from food and probiotic bacteria.
Rapid Purification of a New P-I Class Metalloproteinase fromBothrops moojeniVenom with Antiplatelet Activity
Authors: de Queiroz Mayara R. , Mamede Carla C. Neves , Fonseca Kelly C. , de Morais Nadia C. G. , de Sousa Bruna B. , Santos-Filho Norival A. , Beletti Marcelo E. , Arantes Eliane C. , Stanziola Leonilda , de Oliveira Fábio
Published: June 2014

The present study aimed to evaluate the proteolytic and biological activities of a new metalloproteinase fromB. moojenivenom. The purification of BmooMPα-II was carried out through two chromatographic steps (ion-exchange and affinity). BmooMPα-II is a monomeric protein with an apparent molecular mass of 22.5 kDa on SDS-PAGE 14% under nonreducing conditions. The N-terminal sequence (FSPRYIELVVVADHGMFTKYKSNLN) revealed homology with other snake venom metalloproteinases, mainly among P-I class. BmooMPα-II cleaves Aα-chain of fibrinogen followed by Bβ-chain, and does not show any effect on theγ-chain. Its optimum temperature and pH for the fibrinogenolytic activity were 30–50°C and pH 8, respectively. The inhibitory effects of EDTA and 1,10-phenantroline on the fibrinogenolytic activity suggest that BmooMPα-II is a metalloproteinase. This proteinase was devoid of haemorrhagic, coagulant, or anticoagulant activities. BmooMPα-II caused morphological alterations in liver, lung, kidney, and muscle of Swiss mice. The enzymatically active protein yet inhibited collagen, ADP, and ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation in a concentration-dependent manner. Our results suggest that BmooMPα-II contributes to the toxic effect of the envenomation and that more investigations to elucidate the mechanisms of inhibition of platelet aggregation may contribute to the studies of snake venom on thrombotic disorders.
Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasms of the Pancreas: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Dan Dilip , Rambally Rakesh , Cawich Shamir O. , Maharaj Ravi , Naraynsingh Vijay
Published: June 2014

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas are uncommon, accounting for only 1-2% of all pancreatic neoplasms. These tumors are being detected at an increased rate, probably due to the increased awareness and the liberal use of imaging. We report two cases of patients with solid pseudopapillary pancreatic tumors and review the existing literature.
Inhibition of Nitric Oxide Synthase Prevents Muscarinic and Purinergic Functional Changes and Development of Cyclophosphamide-Induced Cystitis in the Rat
Authors: Aronsson Patrik , Vesela Renata , Johnsson Martin , Tayem Yasin , Wsol Vladimir , Winder Michael , Tobin Gunnar
Published: June 2014

Nitric oxide (NO) has pivotal roles in cyclophosphamide- (CYP-) induced cystitis during which mucosal nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and muscarinic M5 receptor expressions are upregulated. In cystitis, urothelial muscarinic NO-linked effects hamper contractility. Therefore we wondered if a blockade of this axis also affects the induction of cystitis in the rat. Rats were pretreated with saline, the muscarinic receptor antagonist 4-DAMP (1 mg/kg ip), or the NOS inhibitor L-NAME (30 mg/kg ip) for five days. 60 h before the experiments the rats were treated with saline or CYP. Methacholine-, ATP-, and adenosine-evoked responses were smaller in preparations from CYP-treated rats than from saline-treated ones. Pretreatment with 4-DAMP did not change this relation, while pretreatment with L-NAME normalized the responses in the CYP-treated animals. The functional results were strengthened by the morphological observations; 4-DAMP pretreatment did not affect the parameters studied, namely, expression of muscarinic M5 receptors, P1A1 purinoceptors, mast cell distribution, or bladder wall enlargement. However, pretreatment with L-NAME attenuated the differences. Thus, the current study provides new insights into the complex mechanisms behind CYP-induced cystitis. The NO effects coupled to urothelial muscarinic receptors have a minor role in the development of cystitis. Inhibition of NOS may prevent the progression of cystitis.
Application of Stochastic Regression for the Configuration of Microrotary Swaging Processes
Authors: Rippel Daniel , Moumi Eric , Lütjen Michael , Scholz-Reiter Bernd , Kuhfuß Bernd
Published: June 2014

In micromanufacturing, a precise adjustment of manufacturing, handling, and quality control processes constitutes an essential factor for success. The continuing miniaturization of workpieces and production devices results in ever decreasing tolerances, whereas machines and processes become increasingly more specialized. Thereby, the so‐called size effects render the direct application of knowledge from the area of macromanufacturing impossible. In this context, this paper describes the application of the μ‐ProPlAn method for the configuration of an infeed rotary swaging process for microcomponents. At this, the cause‐effect relationships between relevant process parameters are analyzed using stochastic regression models, in order to determine cost‐efficient process configurations for the manufacturing of bulk and tubular microcomponents.
The Design and Implementation of Postprocessing for Depth Map on Real-Time Extraction System
Authors: Tang Zhiwei , Li Bin , Li Huosheng , Xu Zheng
Published: June 2014

Depth estimation becomes the key technology to resolve the communications of the stereo vision. We can get the real-time depth map based on hardware, which cannot implement complicated algorithm as software, because there are some restrictions in the hardware structure. Eventually, some wrong stereo matching will inevitably exist in the process of depth estimation by hardware, such as FPGA. In order to solve the problem a postprocessing function is designed in this paper. After matching cost unique test, the both left-right and right-left consistency check solutions are implemented, respectively; then, the cavities in depth maps can be filled by right depth values on the basis of right-left consistency check solution. The results in the experiments have shown that the depth map extraction and postprocessing function can be implemented in real time in the same system; what is more, the quality of the depth maps is satisfactory.
A Provably Secure Revocable ID-Based Authenticated Group Key Exchange Protocol with Identifying Malicious Participants
Authors: Wu Tsu-Yang , Tsai Tung-Tso , Tseng Yuh-Min
Published: June 2014

The existence of malicious participants is a major threat for authenticated group key exchange (AGKE) protocols. Typically, there are two detecting ways (passive and active) to resist malicious participants in AGKE protocols. In 2012, the revocable identity- (ID-) based public key system (R-IDPKS) was proposed to solve the revocation problem in the ID-based public key system (IDPKS). Afterwards, based on the R-IDPKS, Wu et al. proposed a revocable ID-based AGKE (RID-AGKE) protocol, which adopted a passive detecting way to resist malicious participants. However, it needs three rounds and cannot identify malicious participants. In this paper, we fuse a noninteractive confirmed computation technique to propose the first two-round RID-AGKE protocol with identifying malicious participants, which is an active detecting way. We demonstrate that our protocol is a provably secure AGKE protocol with forward secrecy and can identify malicious participants. When compared with the recently proposed ID/RID-AGKE protocols, our protocol possesses better performance and more robust security properties.
Effects of Simvastatin on Glucose Metabolism in Mouse MIN6 Cells
Authors: Zhou Jieqiong , Li Weihua , Xie Qiang , Hou Yuxi , Zhan Shaopeng , Yang Xi , Xu Xiaofeng , Cai Jun , Huang Zhengrong
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of simvastatin on insulin secretion in mouse MIN6 cells and the possible mechanism. MIN6 cells were, respectively, treated with 0 μM, 2 μM, 5 μM, and 10 μM simvastatin for 48 h. Radio immunoassay was performed to measure the effect of simvastatin on insulin secretion in MIN6 cells. Luciferase method was used to examine the content of ATP in MIN6 cells. Real-time PCR and western blotting were performed to measure the mRNA and protein levels of inward rectifier potassium channel 6.2 (Kir6.2), voltage-dependent calcium channel 1.2(Cav1.2), and glucose transporter-2 (GLUT2), respectively. ATP-sensitive potassium current and L-type calcium current were recorded by whole-cell patch-clamp technique. The results showed that high concentrations of simvastatin (5 μM and 10 μM) significantly reduced the synthesis and secretion of insulin compared to control groups in MIN6 cells(P<0.05). ATP content in simvastatin-treated cells was lower than in control cells(P<0.05). Compared with control group, the mRNA and protein expression of Kir6.2 increased with treatment of simvastatin(P<0.05), and mRNA and protein expression ofCav1.2and GLUT2 decreased in response to simvastatin(P<0.05). Moreover, simvastatin increased the ATP-sensitive potassium current and reduced the L-type calcium current. These results suggest that simvastatin inhibits the synthesis and secretion of insulin through a reduction in saccharometabolism in MIN6 cells.
A Rare Case of Endolymphatic Sac Tumour: Clinicopathologic Study and Surgical Management
Authors: Ferri Emanuele , Amadori Maurizio , Armato Enrico , Pavon Ida
Published: June 2014

Objective. Endolymphatic sac tumor (ELST) is a rare neoplasm arising from the intrapetrous portion of the endolymphatic sac, either isolated or in association with the von Hippel-Lindau disease. We report a sporadic case of ELST with an overview of the literature and a discussion of clinic-radiological, histopathologic, and surgical findings.Case Report. A young woman presented with a progressive hearing loss in the left ear. Otoscopy showed a reddish, bleeding hypotympanic mass. CT demonstrated an expansile lytic mastoid lesion extending to the middle ear, with bone erosion. MRI confirmed a lesion of increased signal on T1-weighted sequences. The patient underwent a canal wall-down tympanoplasty with complete removal of the tumor. Histopathology was consistent with a papillary ELST. Immunohistochemistry was positive for cytokeratin and chromogranin A.Conclusion. This paper highlights the rarity of ELST, the need for an accurate neuroradiological and immunohistochemical study at the early stages, and the timeliness of surgical treatment.
Oscillations of Difference Equations with Several Oscillating Coefficients
Authors: Berezansky L. , Chatzarakis G. E. , Domoshnitsky A. , Stavroulakis I. P.
Published: June 2014

We study the oscillatory behavior of the solutions of the difference equationΔx(n)+∑i=1mpi(n)x(τi(n))=0,n∈N0[∇xn-∑i=1mpinxσin=0, n∈N]where(pi(n)),1≤i≤mare real sequences with oscillating terms,τi(n)[σi(n)],1≤i≤mare general retarded (advanced) arguments, andΔ[∇]denotes the forward (backward) difference operatorΔx(n)=x(n+1)-x(n)[∇x(n)=x(n)-x(n-1)]. Examples illustrating the results are also given.
Privacy Protection for Personal Health Device Communication and Healthcare Building Applications
Authors: Kim Soon Seok , Lee Yong Hee , Kim Jong Mo , Seo Deok Seok , Kim Gwang Hee , Shin Yoon Seok
Published: June 2014

This paper proposes a new method for protecting patient privacy when communicating with a gateway which collects bioinformation through using personal health devices, a type of biosensor for telemedicine, at home and in other buildings. As the suggested method is designed to conform with ISO/IEEE 11073-20601, which is the international standard, interoperability with various health devices was considered. We believe it will be a highly valuable resource for dealing with basic data because it suggests an additional standard for security with the Continua Health Alliance or related international groups in the future.
DFT Study of the Electronic Structure of Cubic‐SiC Nanopores with a C‐Terminated Surface
Authors: Calvino M. , Trejo A. , Iturrios M. I. , Crisóstomo M. C. , Carvajal Eliel , Cruz-Irisson M.
Published: June 2014

A study of the dependence of the electronic structure and energetic stability on the chemical surface passivation of cubic porous silicon carbide (pSiC) was performed using density functional theory (DFT) and the supercell technique. The pores were modeled by removing atoms in the [001] direction to produce a surface chemistry composed of only carbon atoms (C‐phase). Changes in the electronic states of the porous structures were studied by using different passivation schemes: one with hydrogen (H) atoms and the others gradually replacing pairs of H atoms with oxygen (O) atoms, fluorine (F) atoms, and hydroxide (OH) radicals. The results indicate that the band gap behavior of the C‐phase pSiC depends on the number of passivation agents (other than H) per supercell. The band gap decreased with an increasing number of F, O, or OH radical groups. Furthermore, the influence of the passivation of the pSiC on its surface relaxation and the differences in such parameters as bond lengths, bond angles, and cell volume are compared between all surfaces. The results indicate the possibility of nanostructure band gap engineering based on SiC via surface passivation agents.
Identification of Aberrantly Expressed miRNAs in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Liu Dan , Hu Xiaowei , Zhou Hongfeng , Shi Guangyue , Wu Jin
Published: June 2014

The noncoding components of the genome, including miRNA, can contribute to pathogenesis of gastric cancer. Their expression has been profiled in many human cancers, but there are a few published studies in gastric cancer. It is necessary to identify novel aberrantly expressed miRNAs in gastric cancer. In this study, the expression profile of 1891 miRNAs was analyzed using a miRCURY array LNA miRNA chip from three gastric cancer tissues and three normal tissues. The expression levels of 4 miRNAs were compared by real-time PCR between cancerous and normal tissues. We found that 31 miRNAs are upregulated in gastric cancer(P<0.05)and 10 miRNAs have never been reported by other studies; 30 miRNA are downregulated(P<0.05)in gastric cancer tissues. Gene ontology analysis revealed that those dysregulated miRNAs mainly take part in regulating cell proliferation. The levels of has-miR-105, -213*, -514b, and -548n were tested by real-time PCR and have high levels in cancerous tissues. Here, we report a miRNA profile of gastric cancer and provide new perspective to understand this malignant disease. This novel information suggests the potential roles of these miRNAs in the diagnosis, prognosis biomarkers, or therapy targets of gastric cancer.
Sensor-Based Turmeric Finger Growth Characteristics Monitoring Using Embedded System under Soil
Authors: Shanmugam Maheswaran , Ramasamy Asokan
Published: June 2014

Modern agribusiness is becoming increasingly reliant on computer-based systems which was formerly performed by humans. One such technological innovation is the embedded system-based sensor array module such as flex sensor, temperature sensor, and pH sensor that have been used to monitor the turmeric finger growth characteristics. The experimental work has been tested with five different nodes and the average flex sensor resistance changes in five nodes are calculated. Among the five nodes, nodes II and V were diseased. Purposely node II was left as such and node V was treated with Pseudomonas and viride to restrict the Rhizome rot disease attack. As a result, after cultivation, it was found that the Rhizome rot disease attack on node V is comparatively lesser than node II. The greatest advantage of this method is that it helps the farmers to detect the Rhizome rot disease and also prevent it an early stage by monitoring the growth of the turmeric fingers when it is under the soil.
Improvement in Channel Estimation and Error Rate Performance in Mobile Cooperative OFDM Systems with Intercarrier Interference
Authors: Suryani Titiek , Hendrantoro Gamantyo
Published: June 2014

In mobile cooperative orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) systems with amplify-and-forward (AF) relays, in which the source and relay terminals are moving, Doppler frequency might become very large due to the formation of double-hop channels, possibly causing very large intercarrier interference (ICI). Therefore, ICI mitigation technique capable of reducing the impact of high Doppler frequency is required. This paper reports the study of ICI mitigation technique that uses frequency domain equalizer (FDE) with improvements in three aspects, namely, better channel estimation using cubic-spline approximation, use of selection combining to utilize cooperative diversity in order to suppress ICI, and simple error correcting code with double interleaving to suppress errors due to residual ICI. By using the proposed ICI mitigation technique, error rate performance of mobile cooperative OFDM systems can be improved significantly. Even at high Doppler frequencies, error floors due to residual ICI can be decreased by up to two decades.
A “Model to Model” Collaborative Perception Methodology for Distributed Design
Authors: Wan Neng , Du Ke , Mo Rong , Xie Gongnan
Published: June 2014

To solve the problem of collaborative engineering changes of models distributed in heterogeneous design platforms, a “model to model” perception methodology is proposed in this paper. A self-management collaborative architecture is presented by peer to peer architecture and multiagent system. The network addresses correlation between heterogeneous platforms is built up by the perception router ontology. In the same way, the correlation between design models is described by the feature relation ontology. The design changes are encapsulated by the model modification ontology. Along with the ontology above, the design change search method is devised to catch the geometric changes; the influence search method is proposed to discover the influenced design feature and the design change adapting method is used to preserve the correlation coherence after perception. Through the work, the conventional design perception mode among designers has transformed into direct perception among models instead.
Design of a Circularly Polarized Z-Slot Antenna with Isotropic Pattern for the UHF RFID Reader of WSN
Authors: Park Jongan , Chun Jonghun , Kang Gwangwon , Kang Sungkwan , An Youngeun
Published: June 2014

In an antenna for a UHF RFID reader of wireless sensor networks (WSN), receiver sensitivity in sensing multitags from remote distances is an important performance index. This study designed a dual structured Z-slot antenna with optimized receiver sensitivity to enhance the sensitivity to a circularly polarized antenna with an isotropic pattern for a UHF RFID. Through analysis of performance in the designed antenna, the following was verified: return loss [Formula: see text] was about −62.21 dB at 925.25 MHz, antenna gain was 7.36 dBi, and Δ[Formula: see text], isotropic gain deviation, was 1.3 dB. Impedance matching was about 50.069 Ω at 925.25 MHz and VSWR was from 1.001 to 1.028. Through this research it was discovered that this can be applied to the design of all RFID readers of WSN. Based on the above results, it is suggested that a circularly polarized Z-slot antenna which can enhance receiver sensitivity over a wide range can be widely applied to UHF RFID readers of WSN.
Alteration of Basilar Artery Rho-Kinase and Soluble Guanylyl Cyclase Protein Expression in a Rat Model of Cerebral Vasospasm following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Wang Chih-Jen , Lee Pei-Yu , Wu Bin-Nan , Wu Shu-Chuan , Loh Joon-Khim , Tsai Hung-Pei , Chung Chia-Li , Kassell Neal F. , Kwan Aij-Lie
Published: June 2014

Background and Purpose. The vasoconstrictor endothelin-1 (ET-1) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Previous results showed that CGS 26303, an endothelin converting enzyme (ECE) inhibitor, effectively prevented and reversed arterial narrowing in animal models of SAH. In the present study, we assessed the effect of CGS 26303 on neurological deficits in SAH rats. The involvement of vasoactive pathways downstream of ET-1 signaling in SAH was also investigated.Methods. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n=6/group): (1) normal control, (2) SAH, (3) SAH+vehicle, (4) SAH+CGS 26303 (prevention), and (5) SAH+CGS 26303 (reversal). SAH was induced by injecting autologous blood into cisterna magna. CGS 26303 (10 mg/kg) was injected intravenously at 1 and 24 hr after the initiation of SAH in the prevention and reversal protocols, respectively. Behavioral changes were assessed at 48 hr after SAH. Protein expression was analyzed by Western blots.Results. Deficits in motor function were obvious in the SAH rats, and CGS 26303 significantly improved the rate of paraplegia. Expressions of rho-kinase-II and membrane-bound protein kinase C-δand rhoA were significantly increased, while those of soluble guanylyl cyclaseα1andβ1as well as protein kinase G were significantly decreased in the basilar artery of SAH rats. Treatment with CGS 26303 nearly normalized these effects.Conclusions. These results demonstrate that the rhoA/rho-kinase and sGC/cGMP/PKG pathways play pivotal roles in cerebral vasospasm after SAH. It also shows that ECE inhibition is an effective strategy for the treatment of this disease.
Towards Understanding Extracellular ROS Sensory and Signaling Systems in Plants
Authors: Kangasjärvi Saijaliisa , Kangasjärvi Jaakko
Published: June 2014

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) are ubiquitous metabolites in all aerobic organisms. Traditionally ROS have been considered as harmful, accidental byproducts of cellular functions involving electron transport chains or electron transfer. However, it is now recognized that controlled production of ROS has significant signaling functions, for example, in pathogen defense, in the regulation of stomatal closure, or in cell-to-cell signaling. ROS formation in subcellular compartments is critical to act as “alarm” signal in the response to stress, and the concept of ROS as primarily signaling substances has emerged. The involvement of ROS in several developmental and inducible processes implies that there must be coordinated function of signaling network(s) that govern ROS responses and subsequent processes. The air pollutant ozone can be used as a useful tool to elucidate the function of apoplastic ROS: O3degrades in cell wall into various ROS which are interpreted as ROS with signaling function inducing downstream responses. We have used ozone as a tool in mutant screens and transcript profiling-reverse genetics to identify genes involved in processes related to the signaling function of ROS. We review here our recent findings in the elucidation of apoplastic ROS sensing, signaling, and interaction with various symplastic components.
Ecological Complexity and the Success of Fungal Biological Control Agents
Authors: Knudsen Guy R. , Dandurand Louise-Marie C.
Published: June 2014

Fungal biological control agents against plant pathogens, especially those in soil, operate within physically, biologically, and spatially complex systems by means of a variety of trophic and nontrophic interspecific interactions. However, the biocontrol agents themselves are also subject to the same types of interactions, which may reduce or in some cases enhance their efficacy against target plant pathogens. Characterization of these ecologically complex systems is challenging, but a number of tools are available to help unravel this complexity. Several of these tools are described here, including the use of molecular biology to generate biocontrol agents with useful marker genes and then to quantify these agents in natural systems, epifluorescence and confocal laser scanning microscopy to observe their presence and activity in situ, and spatial statistics and computer simulation modeling to evaluate and predict these activities in heterogeneous soil habitats.
Combined 3D QSAR Based Virtual Screening and Molecular Docking Study of Some Selected PDK-1 Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Singh Shalini , Srivastava Pradeep
Published: June 2014

Phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 (PDK-1) is an important therapeutic target for the treatment of cancer. In order to identify the important chemical features of PDK-1 inhibitors, a 3D QSAR pharmacophore model was developed based on 21 available PDK-1 inhibitors. The best pharmacophore model (Hypo1) exhibits all the important chemical features required for PDK-1 inhibitors. The correlation coefficient, root mean square deviation (RMSD), and cost difference were 0.96906, 1.0719, and 168.13, respectively, suggesting a good predictive ability of the model (Hypo1) among all the ten pharmacophore models that were analyzed. The best pharmacophore model (Hypo1) was further validated by Fisher’s randomization method (95%), test set method(r=0.87), and the decoy set with the goodness of fit (0.73). Further, this validated pharmacophore model Hypo1 was used as a 3D query to screen the molecules from databases like NCI database and Maybridge. The resultant hit compounds were subsequently subjected to filtration by Lipinski’s rule of five as well as the ADMET study. Docking study was done to refine the retrieved hits and as a result to reduce the rate of false positive. Best hits will further be subjected to in vitro study in future.
Adaptive Asymptotical Synchronization for Stochastic Complex Networks with Time‐Delay and Markovian Switching
Authors: Jiang Xueling , Qin Shuijie , Tong Dongbing , Wang Liping
Published: June 2014

The problem of adaptive asymptotical synchronization is discussed for the stochastic complex dynamical networks with time‐delay and Markovian switching. By applying the stochastic analysis approach and the M‐matrix method for stochastic complex networks, several sufficient conditions to ensure adaptive asymptotical synchronization for stochastic complex networks are derived. Through the adaptive feedback control techniques, some suitable parameters update laws are obtained. Simulation result is provided to substantiate the effectiveness and characteristics of the proposed approach.