bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transabdominal Approach for Chylorrhea after Esophagectomy by Using Fluorescence Navigation with Indocyanine Green
Authors: Matsutani Takeshi , Hirakata Atsushi , Nomura Tsutomu , Hagiwara Nobutoshi , Matsuda Akihisa , Yoshida Hiroshi , Uchida Eiji
Published: July 2014

A 70-year-old man who underwent two sessions of thoracoscopy-assisted ligation of the thoracic duct to treat refractory chylorrhea after radical esophagectomy for advanced esophageal cancer received conservative therapy. However, there was no improvement in chylorrhea. Then, transabdominal ligation of the lymphatic/thoracic duct at the level of the right crus of the diaphragm was performed using fluorescence navigation with indocyanine green (ICG). The procedure successfully reduced chylorrhea. This procedure provides a valid option for persistent chylothorax/chylous ascites accompanied by chylorrhea with no response to conservative treatment, transthoracic ligation, or both.
Separation Process by Porous Membranes: A Numerical Investigation
Authors: de Lima Cunha Acto , de Souza Josedite Saraiva , de Farias Neto Severino Rodrigues , de Lima Antonio Gilson Barbosa , Barbosa Enivaldo Santos
Published: July 2014

A major problem associated with the membrane separation processes is the permeate flux drop, limiting the widespread of industrial application of this process. This occurs due to the accumulation of solute concentration near the membrane surface. An exact quantification of the concentration polarization as a function of process conditions is essential to estimate the system performance satisfactorily. In this sense, this work aims to predict the behavior of the concentration polarization boundary layer along the length of a permeable tubular membrane, over various operation conditions. The numerical solution of the Navier-Stokes equation, coupled to Darcy's and mass transfer equations, is obtained by the commercial software ANSYS CFX 12, considering a two-dimensional computational domain. The study evaluates the effects of axial Reynolds and Schmidt numbers on the concentration polarization boundary layer thickness during the cross-flow filtration process. Numerical results have shown that the mathematical model is able to predict the formation and growth of the concentration polarization boundary layer along the length of the tubular membrane.
Optimal Control of a Nonlinear Time‐Delay System in Batch Fermentation Process
Authors: Yu Yongsheng
Published: July 2014

The main control goal in batch process is to get a high yield of products. In this
paper, to maximize the yield of 1,3‐propanediol (1,3‐PD) in bioconversion of glycerol
to 1,3‐PD, we consider an optimal control problem involving a nonlinear
time‐delay system. The control variables in this problem include the initial concentrations
of biomass and glycerol and the terminal time of the batch process.
By a time‐scaling transformation, we transcribe the optimal control problem into
a new one with fixed terminal time, which yields a new nonlinear system with
variable time‐delay. The gradients of the cost and constraint functionals with
respect to the control variables are derived using the costate method. Then, a
gradient‐based optimization method is developed to solve the optimal control
problem. Numerical results show that the yield of 1,3‐PD at the terminal time
is increased considerably compared with the experimental data.
Optimization of Alkaline Extraction and Bioactivities of Polysaccharides from Rhizome ofPolygonatum odoratum
Authors: Chen Yong , Yin Luoyi , Zhang Xuejiao , Wang Yan , Chen Qiuzhi , Jin Chenzhong , Hu Yihong , Wang Jihua
Published: July 2014

The present study is to explore the optimal extraction parameters, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial activity of alkaline soluble polysaccharides from rhizome ofPolygonatum odoratum. The optimal extraction parameters were determined as the following: NaOH concentration (A) 0.3 M, temperature (B)80°C, ratio of NaOH to solid (C) 10-fold, and extraction time (D) 4 h, in which ratio of NaOH to solid was a key factor. The order of the factors was ratio of NaOH to solid (fold, C) > extraction temperature (°C, B) > NaOH concentration (M, A) > extraction time (h, D). The monosaccharide compositions of polysaccharides fromP. odoratumwere rhamnose, mannose, xylose, and arabinose with the molecular ratio of 31.78, 31.89, 11.11, and 1.00, respectively. The reducing power, the 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging rate, the hydroxyl radicals scavenging rate, and the inhibition rate to polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) peroxidation of the alkaline soluble polysaccharides fromP. odoratumat 1 mg/mL were 9.81%, 52.84%, 19.22%, and 19.42% of ascorbic acid at the same concentration, respectively. They also showed antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteriaStaphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, andEscherichia coli.
Improvements in Memory after Medial Septum Stimulation Are Associated with Changes in Hippocampal Cholinergic Activity and Neurogenesis
Authors: Jeong Da Un , Lee Ji Eun , Lee Sung Eun , Chang Won Seok , Kim Sung June , Chang Jin Woo
Published: July 2014

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been found to have therapeutic effects in patients with dementia, but DBS mechanisms remain elusive. To provide evidence for the effectiveness of DBS as a treatment for dementia, we performed DBS in a rat model of dementia with intracerebroventricular administration of 192 IgG-saporins. We utilized four groups of rats, group 1, unlesioned control; group 2, cholinergic lesion; group 3, cholinergic lesion plus medial septum (MS) electrode implantation (sham stimulation); group 4, cholinergic lesions plus MS electrode implantation and stimulation. During the probe test in the water maze, performance of the lesion group decreased for measures of time spent and the number of swim crossings over the previous platform location. Interestingly, the stimulation group showed an equivalent performance to the normal group on all measures. And these are partially reversed by the electrode implantation. Acetylcholinesterase activity in the hippocampus was decreased in lesion and implantation groups, whereas activity in the stimulation group was not different from the normal group. Hippocampal neurogenesis was increased in the stimulation group. Our results revealed that DBS of MS restores spatial memory after damage to cholinergic neurons. This effect is associated with an increase in hippocampal cholinergic activity and neurogenesis.
Unique Nutcracker Phenomenon Involving the Right Renal Artery and Portal Venous System
Authors: Stephens Maximilian , Ryan Sarah Kate , Livsey Roger
Published: July 2014

The nutcracker phenomenon is usually caused by compression of the left renal vein by the superior mesenteric artery anteriorly and the aorta posteriorly, although variations of this anatomy have previously been reported. We observed a nutcracker phenomenon in a 42-year-old female who underwent portal venous phase computed tomography of the body for oncologic workup. She had no documented proteinuria or hematuria. Multiplanar reconstructions demonstrated an enhancing left renal vein draining into the left ovarian vein without draining into the inferior vena cava due to external compression immediately before the renocaval junction. The left renal vein was compressed between the right renal artery and the portal vein. This type of nutcracker has not been previously reported in the literature and represents a new variation.
Fatigue Life of Construction Elements in a Complex Stress State
Authors: Łukaszewicz Krzysztof
Published: July 2014

This paper presents a method of assessing fatigue strength for a body in conditions of cyclical tension and torsion. The theoretical calculations have been conducted using the criterion of averaged structural microdamage resulting from local slips. The description of microdamages of such a body, in the view of the slip concept, was done by using a half-sphere with a unit radius, on the surface of which the location of all local physical planes and slip systems was determined employing three angles. A computer method was used to determine the slip boundaries in a complex stress state, analyzing the slip condition for all combinations of angles. Based on the calculated values of the microdamages' intensity function, the number of loading cycles until the moment of fracture initiation was estimated. Experimental verification of the suggested criterion was conducted using cylindrical smooth specimens, made of C45 steel. The tests of fatigue strength were made under conditions of a constant amplitude of zero-start pulsating loads.
Characterization of the Strong Metric Subregularity of the Mordukhovich Subdifferential on Asplund Spaces
Authors: Wang J. J. , Song W.
Published: July 2014

We mainly present several equivalent characterizations of the strong metric subregularity of the Mordukhovich subdifferential for an extended-real-valued lower semicontinuous, prox-regular, and subdifferentially continuous function acting on an Asplund space.
Effects of Climate Change and Various Grassland Management Practices on Grasshopper (Orthoptera) Assemblages
Authors: Kenyeres Zoltán , Cservenka Judit
Published: July 2014

Influence of different grassland management practices on Orthoptera assemblages inhabiting humid grassland areas was studied since 2003 to 2011. The examined sites were within the protected area of Balaton Uplands National Park. The physiognomy and climatic conditions of the studied habitats were similar but their land use types were significantly different.
After the preliminary analyses of Nonmetric multidimensional scaling, neighbour joining clustering, and Spearman rank correlation, we examined the possible effects of such independent variables as land use (nonmanagement, mowing, grazing), microclimate (humidity and temperature), regional macroclimate (annual and monthly mean temperatures and rainfall), using General Linear Mixed Models, and canonical correlation analysis.
Our results showed that the effect of grassland management practices on the organization of Orthoptera assemblages was at least as important as that of macro- and microclimate. Furthermore, grassland management could intensify the influence of several local and regional parameters. These results can help finding the most suitable type of grassland management to conserve the grasshopper assemblages.
Temporal Characteristics of High-Frequency Lower-Limb Oscillation during Freezing of Gait in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Yungher Don A. , Morris Tiffany R. , Dilda Valentina , Shine James M. , Naismith Sharon L. , Lewis Simon J. G. , Moore Steven T.
Published: July 2014

A cardinal feature of freezing of gait (FOG) is high frequency (3–8 Hz) oscillation of the legs, and this study aimed to quantify the temporal pattern of lower-body motion prior to and during FOG. Acceleration data was obtained from sensors attached to the back, thighs, shanks, and feet in 14 Parkinson’s disease patients performing timed-up-and-go tasks, and clinical assessment of FOG was performed by two experienced raters from video. A total of 23 isolated FOG events, defined as occurring at least 5 s after gait initiation and with no preceding FOG, were identified from the clinical ratings. The corresponding accelerometer records were analyzed within a 4 s window centered at the clinical onset of freezing. FOG-related high-frequency oscillation (an increase in power in the 3–8 Hz band >3 SD from baseline) followed a distal to proximal onset pattern, appearing at the feet, shanks, thighs, and then back over a period of 250 ms. Peak power tended to decrease as the focus of oscillation moved from feet to back. There was a consistent delay (mean 872 ms) between the onset of high frequency oscillation at the feet and clinical onset of FOG. We infer that FOG is characterized by high frequency oscillation at the feet, which progresses proximally and is mechanically damped at the torso.
Preventive Effects of Collagen Peptide from Deer Sinew on Bone Loss in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Zhang He , Dong Ying , Qi Bin , Liu Li , Zhou Guangxin , Bai Xueyuan , Yang Chunhui , Zhao Daqing , Zhao Yu
Published: July 2014

Deer sinew (DS) has been used traditionally for various illnesses, and the major active constituent is collagen. In this study, we assessed the effects of collagen peptide from DS on bone loss in the ovariectomized rats. Wister female rats were randomly divided into six groups as follows: sham‐operated (SHAM), ovariectomized control (OVX), OVX given 1.0 mg/kg/week nylestriol (OVX + N), OVX given 0.4 g/kg/day collagen peptide (OVX + H), OVX given 0.2 g/kg/day collagen peptide (OXV + M), and OVX given 0.1 g/kg/day collagen peptide (OXV + L), respectively. After 13 weeks of treatment, the rats were euthanized, and the effects of collagen peptide on body weight, uterine weight, bone mineral density (BMD), serum biochemical indicators, bone histomorphometry, and bone mechanics were observed. The data showed that BMD and concentration of serum hydroxyproline were significantly increased and the levels of serum calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase were decreased. Besides, histomorphometric parameters and mechanical indicators were improved. However, collagen peptide of DS has no effect on estradiol level, body weight, and uterine weight. Therefore, these results suggest that the collagen peptide supplementation may also prevent and treat bone loss.
Clinical Efficacy of a Spray Containing Hyaluronic Acid and Dexpanthenol after Surgery in the Nasal Cavity (Septoplasty, Simple Ethmoid Sinus Surgery, and Turbinate Surgery)
Authors: Gouteva Ina , Shah-Hosseini Kija , Meiser Peter
Published: July 2014

Background. This prospective, controlled, parallel-group observational study investigated the efficacy of a spray containing hyaluronic acid and dexpanthenol to optimise regular treatment after nasal cavity surgery in 49 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.Methods. The control group received standard therapy. Mucosal regeneration was determined using rhinoscopy sum score (RSS). Pre- and postoperative nasal patency was tested using anterior rhinomanometry. The participants were questioned about their symptoms.Results. Regarding all RSS parameters (dryness, dried nasal mucus, fibrin deposition, and obstruction), mucosal regeneration achieved good final results in both groups, tending to a better improvement through the spray application, without statistically significant differences during the whole assessment period, the mean values being 7.04, 5.00, 3.66, and 3.00 (intervention group) and 7.09, 5.14, 4.36, and 3.33 (control group). No statistically significant benefit was identified for nasal breathing, foreign body sensation, and average rhinomanometric volume flow, which improved by 12.31% (control group) and 11.24% (nasal spray group).Conclusion. The investigational product may have additional benefit on postoperative mucosal regeneration compared to standard cleaning procedures alone. However, no statistically significant advantage could be observed in this observational study. Double-blind, controlled studies with larger populations will be necessary to evaluate the efficacy of this treatment modality.
Involvement of Different CD4+T Cell Subsets Producing Granzyme B in the Immune Response toLeishmania majorAntigens
Authors: Naouar Ikbel , Boussoffara Thouraya , Ben Ahmed Melika , Belhaj Hmida Nabil , Gharbi Adel , Gritli Sami , Ben Salah Afif , Louzir Hechmi
Published: July 2014

The nature of effector cells and the potential immunogenicity ofLeishmania majorexcreted/secreted proteins (LmES) were evaluated using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healed zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis individuals (HZCL) and healthy controls (HC). First, we found that PBMCs from HZCL individuals proliferate and produce high levels of IFN-γand granzyme B (GrB), used as a marker of activated cytotoxic T cells, in response to the parasite antigens. IFN-γis produced by CD4+T cells, but unexpectedly GrB is also produced by CD4+T cells in response to stimulation withLmES, which were found to be as effective as solubleLeishmaniaantigens to induce proliferation and cytokine production by PBMCs from immune individuals. To address the question of regulatory T cell (Tregs) involvement, the frequency of circulating Tregs was assessed and found to be higher in HZCL individuals compared to that of HC. Furthermore, both CD4+CD25+and CD4+CD25−T cells, purified from HZCL individuals, produced IFN-γand GrB when stimulated withLmES. Additional experiments showed thatCD4+CD25+CD127dim/-Tregs were involved in GrB production. Collectively, our data indicate thatLmES are immunogenic in humans and emphasize the involvement of CD4+T cells including activated and regulatory T cells in the immune response against parasite antigens.
MMSET: Role and Therapeutic Opportunities in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Xie Zhigang , Chng Wee Joo
Published: July 2014

Recurrent chromosomal translocations are central to the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and prognosis of hematologic malignancies. The translocation t(4; 14)(p16; q32) is one of the most common translocations in multiple myeloma (MM) and is associated with very poor prognosis. The t(4; 14) translocation leads to the simultaneous overexpression of two genes,FGFR3(fibroblast growth factor receptor 3) andMMSET(multiple myeloma SET domain), both of which have potential oncogenic activity. However, approximately 30% of t(4; 14) MM patients do not express FGFR3 and have poor prognosis irrespective of FGFR3 expression, whereas MMSET overexpression is universal in t(4; 14) cases. In this review, we provide an overview of recent findings regarding the oncogenic roles of MMSET in MM and its functions on histone methylation. We also highlight some of MMSET partners and its downstream signalling pathways and discuss the potential therapeutics targeting MMSET.
Image Segmentation and Identification of Paired Antibodies in Breast Tissue
Authors: Azar Jimmy C. , Simonsson Martin , Bengtsson Ewert , Hast Anders
Published: July 2014

Comparing staining patterns of paired antibodies designed towards a specific protein but toward different epitopes of the protein provides quality control over the binding and the antibodies’ ability to identify the target protein correctly and exclusively. We present a method for automated quantification of immunostaining patterns for antibodies in breast tissue using the Human Protein Atlas database. In such tissue, dark brown dye 3,3′-diaminobenzidine is used as an antibody-specific stain whereas the blue dye hematoxylin is used as a counterstain. The proposed method is based on clustering and relative scaling of features following principal component analysis. Our method is able (1) to accurately segment and identify staining patterns and quantify the amount of staining and (2) to detect paired antibodies by correlating the segmentation results among different cases. Moreover, the method is simple, operating in a low-dimensional feature space, and computationally efficient which makes it suitable for high-throughput processing of tissue microarrays.
Symmetries, Traveling Wave Solutions, and Conservation Laws of a(3+1)-Dimensional Boussinesq Equation
Authors: Moleleki Letlhogonolo Daddy , Khalique Chaudry Masood
Published: July 2014

We analyze the(3+1)-dimensional Boussinesq equation, which has applications in fluid mechanics. We find exact solutions of the(3+1)-dimensional Boussinesq equation by utilizing the Lie symmetry method along with the simplest equation method. The solutions obtained are traveling wave solutions. Moreover, we construct the conservation laws of the(3+1)-dimensional Boussinesq equation using the new conservation theorem, which is due to Ibragimov.
Meditation as an Adjunct to the Management of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Levin Adam B. , Hadgkiss Emily J. , Weiland Tracey J. , Jelinek George A.
Published: July 2014

Background. Multiple sclerosis (MS) disease course is known to be adversely affected by several factors including stress. A proposed mechanism for decreasing stress and therefore decreasing MS morbidity and improving quality of life is meditation. This review aims to critically analyse the current literature regarding meditation and MS.Methods. Four major databases were used to search for English language papers published before March 2014 with the terms MS, multiple sclerosis, meditation, and mindfulness.Results. 12 pieces of primary literature fitting the selection criteria were selected: two were randomised controlled studies, four were cohort studies, and six were surveys. The current literature varies in quality; however common positive effects of meditation include improved quality of life (QOL) and improved coping skills.Conclusion. All studies suggest possible benefit to the use of meditation as an adjunct to the management of multiple sclerosis. Additional rigorous clinical trials are required to validate the existing findings and determine if meditation has an impact on disease course over time.
Syngas Production from Pyrolysis of Nine Composts Obtained from Nonhybrid and Hybrid Perennial Grasses
Authors: Hlavsová Adéla , Corsaro Agnieszka , Raclavská Helena , Juchelková Dagmar , Škrobánková Hana , Frydrych Jan
Published: July 2014

A pyrolysis of compost for the production of syngas with an explicit H2/CO = 2 or H2/CO = 3 was investigated in this study. The composts were obtained from nonhybrid (perennial) grasses (NHG) and hybrid (perennial) grasses (HG). Discrepancies in H2evolution profiles were found between NHG and HG composts. In addition, positive correlations for NHG composts were obtained between (i) H2yield and lignin content, (ii) H2yield and potassium content, and (iii) CO yield and cellulose content. All composts resulted in H2/CO = 2 and five of the nine composts resulted in H2/CO = 3. Exceptionally large higher heating values (HHVs) of pyrolysis gas, very close to HHVs of feedstock, were obtained for composts made from mountain brome (MB, 16.23 MJ/kg), hybrid Becva (FB, 16.45 MJ/kg), and tall fescue (TF, 17.43 MJ/kg). The MB and FB composts resulted in the highest syngas formation with H2/CO = 2, whereas TF compost resulted in the highest syngas formation with H2/CO = 3.
Evaluation of the Response of Posttensioned Steel Frames with Energy Dissipators Using Equivalent Single-Degree-of-Freedom Systems
Authors: Rivera J. Luz , López-Barraza Arturo , Ruiz Sonia E. , Reyes-Salazar Alfredo
Published: July 2014

The hysteretic energy (EH) dissipated in posttensioned steel frames (PTSF) with hysteretic dampers is calculated by using equivalent single-degree-of-freedom systems (ESDOFS), where the nonlinearity of both the steel bars (beam and columns) and the connections of the structural frame is separately considered. Five multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOFS) PTSF and their corresponding ESDOFS are studied under the action of 30 seismic motions recorded in soft ground, scaled in terms of the spectral pseudoacceleration evaluated at the fundamental period of the structures. Several simple mathematical expressions are proposed. The first expression is useful to calculate modifying factors (FMEH) to relateEHof the ESDOFS with that of the MDOFS; the second is to determine the interstory drift (γ) as a function of the seismic intensity. The third equation is to calculate the factor of the relative participation of the energy that the connections dissipate with respect to the total energyEHand the fourth equation, which is function of theγ, is to obtain the distribution factors ofEHthrough the height of the structure. The methodology proposed can be used for the design or the structural revision of PTSF with dampers.
H∞ Stochastic Control of a Class of Networked Control Systems with Time Delays and Packet Dropouts
Authors: Wang Jufeng , Liu Chunfeng , Li Kai
Published: July 2014

This paper studies the H‐infinity stochastic control problem for a class of networked control systems (NCSs) with time delays and packet dropouts. The state feedback closed‐loop NCS is modeled as a Markovian jump linear system. Through using a Lyapunov function, a sufficient condition is obtained, under which the system is stochastically exponential stability with a desired H‐infinity disturbance attenuation level. The designed H‐infinity controller is obtained by solving a set of linear matrix inequalities with some inversion constraints. An numerical example is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Catalytic Combustion of Low Concentration Methane over Catalysts Prepared from Co/Mg-Mn Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Liu Hongfeng , Fu Xingrui , Weng Xiaole , Liu Yue , Wang Haiqiang , Wu Zhongbiao
Published: July 2014

A series of Co/Mg-Mn mixed oxides were synthesized through thermal decomposition of layered double hydroxides (LDHs) precursors. The resulted catalysts were then subjected for catalytic combustion of methane. Experimental results revealed that the Co4.5Mg1.5Mn2LDO catalyst possessed the best performance with theT90=485°C. After being analyzed via XRD, BET-BJH, SEM, H2-TPR, and XPS techniques, it was observed that the addition of cobalt had significantly improved the redox ability of the catalysts whilst certain amount of magnesium was essential to guarantee the catalytic activity. The presence of Mg was helpful to enhance the oxygen mobility and, meanwhile, improved the dispersion of Co and Mn oxides, preventing the surface area loss after calcination.
Application of Hierarchical Two-Level Spectral Preconditioning Method for Electromagnetic Scattering from the Rough Surface
Authors: Ding D. Z. , Li G. M. , An Y. Y. , Chen R. S.
Published: July 2014

The higher-order hierarchical Legendre basis functions combining the electrical field integral equations (EFIE) are developed to solve the scattering problems from the rough surface. The hierarchical two-level spectral preconditioning method is developed for the generalized minimal residual iterative method (GMRES). The hierarchical two-level spectral preconditioner is constructed by combining the spectral preconditioner and sparse approximate inverse (SAI) preconditioner to speed up the convergence rate of iterative methods. The multilevel fast multipole method (MLFMM) is employed to reduce memory requirement and computational complexity of the method of moments (MoM) solution. The accuracy and efficiency are confirmed with a couple of numerical examples.
Analysis of Oxidative Stress Enzymes and Structural and Functional Proteins on Human Aortic Tissue from Different Aortopathies
Authors: Soto María Elena , Soria-Castro Elizabeth , Guarner Lans Verónica , Muruato Ontiveros Eleazar , Iván Hernández Mejía Benjamín , Jorge Martínez Hernandez Humberto , Barragán García Rodolfo , Herrera Valentín , Pérez-Torres Israel
Published: July 2014

The role of oxidative stress in different aortopathies is evaluated. Thirty-two tissue samples from 18 men and 14 women were divided into: 4 control (C) subjects, 11 patients with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), 4 with variants of Marfan’s syndrome (MV), 9 with Marfan’s syndrome (M), 2 with Turner’s syndrome, and 2 with Takayasu’s arteritis (TA). Aorta fragments were homogenized. Lipoperoxidation (LPO), copper-zinc and manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn and Cu-Zn-SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), nitrates and nitrites (NO3−/NO2−), and type IV collagen, and laminin were evaluated. There was an increase in Mn- and Cu-Zn-SOD activity in SAH, MV, M, and Turner’s syndrome. There was also an increase in CAT activity in M and Turner’ syndrome. GPx and GST activity decreased and LPO increased in all groups. eNOS was decreased in SAH, MV, and M andNO3−/NO2−were increased in SAH and TA. Type IV collagen was decreased in Turner’s syndrome and TA. Lamininγ-1 was decreased in MV and increased in M. In conclusion, similarities and differences in oxidative stress in the different aortopathies studied including pathologies with aneurysms were found with alterations in SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, and eNOS activity that modify subendothelial basement membrane proteins.
Comprehensive Control of Networked Control Systems with Multistep Delay
Authors: Jiang Jie , Ma Changlin
Published: July 2014

In networked control systems with multi-step delay, long time-delay causes vacant sampling and controller design difficulty. In order to solve the above problems, comprehensive control methods are proposed in this paper. Time-delay compensation control and linear-quadratic-Guassian (LQG) optimal control are adopted and the systems switch different controllers between two different states. LQG optimal controller is used with probability1-αin normal state, which is shown to render the systems mean square exponentially stable. Time-delay compensation controller is used with probabilityαin abnormal state to compensate vacant sampling and long time-delay. In addition, a buffer window is established at the actuator of the systems to store some history control inputs which are used to estimate the control state of present sampling period under the vacant sampling cases. The comprehensive control methods simplify control design which is easier to be implemented in engineering. The performance of the systems is also improved. Simulation results verify the validity of the proposed theory.
A New Aurora in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer Therapy
Authors: Baldini Enke , D’Armiento Massimino , Ulisse Salvatore
Published: July 2014

Anaplastic thyroid cancers (ATC) are among the most aggressive human neoplasms with a dire prognosis and a median survival time of few months from the diagnosis. The complete absence of effective therapies for ATC renders the identification of novel therapeutic approaches sorely needed. Chromosomal instability, a feature of all human cancers, is thought to represent a major driving force in thyroid cancer progression and a number of mitotic kinases showing a deregulated expression in malignant thyroid tissues are now held responsible for thyroid tumor aneuploidy. These include the three members of the Aurora family (Aurora-A, Aurora-B, and Aurora-C), serine/threonine kinases that regulate multiple aspects of chromosome segregation and cytokinesis. Over the last few years, several small molecule inhibitors targeting Aurora kinases were developed, which showed promising antitumor effects against a variety of human cancers, including ATC, in preclinical studies. Several of these molecules are now being evaluated in phase I/II clinical trials against advanced solid and hematological malignancies. In the present review we will describe the structure, expression, and mitotic functions of the Aurora kinases, their implications in human cancer progression, with particular regard to ATC, and the effects of their functional inhibition on malignant cell proliferation.
Histochemical Investigation and Kinds of Alkaloids in Leaves of Different Developmental Stages inThymus quinquecostatus
Authors: Jing Haiting , Liu Jing , Liu Hanzhu , Xin Hua
Published: July 2014

Thymus quinquecostatus, with more medical value, is a kind of wild plants. In order to exploit and utilize this plant, we studied the species and locations of alkaloids in its leaves. In this paper, histochemical study of leaves at different developing stages was taken to localize the alkaloids. Meanwhile, the kinds and content of alkaloids in leaves were identified using GC-MS technique. It was found that there were two kinds of glandular trichomes, namely, peltate trichomes and capitate trichomes, on the surface of leaves, and their secretory cells could secrete alkaloids. Results showed that trichomes could secrete alkaloids as soon as the first pair of leaves formed, and there were altogether 18 kinds of alkaloids identified by GC-MS. Nearly all of these alkaloids of leaves at different developing stages were distinct from each other, except one, 3-methoxy-a-methyl-benzeneethanamine, persists at different developing stages with high concentration.
Iniencephaly and Holoprosencephaly: Report of a Rare Association
Authors: Tokmak Aytekin , Timur Hakan , Dağlar Korkut , Kara Özgür
Published: July 2014

The aim of this study is to discuss a rare association of iniencephaly and holoprosencephaly and to state the importance of pregnancy termination in early gestational weeks. An 18-year-old nullipara was admitted to our perinatology service with a diagnosis of neural tube defect. Based on the ultrasonographic findings of alobar holoprosencephaly and iniencephaly during a prenatal screening, termination was recommended at the 13th week of pregnancy. However, she rejected the termination and received no prenatal care until the onset of parturition. At the time of admission, she was in her 28th week of pregnancy. Her medical and family histories were unremarkable. She delivered a stillbirth female weighing 1100 gr complicated with iniencephaly. The infant’s postmortem examination showed iniencephaly associated with holoprosencephaly and cyclops. The family declined an autopsy and genetic counseling. In this case, genetics and environmental causes, including lower socioeconomic status and lack of folic acid supplementation, may be risk factors for the current disorder. In conclusion, prenatal diagnosis is possible and termination in early pregnancy should be proposed to patients with iniencephaly associated with holoprosencephaly. In addition, folic acid supplementation should be recommended to reduce the risk of contracting this disorder.
Efficient Variable Step Size Approximations for Strong Solutions of Stochastic Differential Equations with Additive Noise and Time Singularity
Authors: Hughes Harry Randolph , Siriwardena Pathiranage Lochana
Published: July 2014

We consider stochastic differential equations with additive noise and conditions on the coefficients in those equations that allow a time singularity in the drift coefficient. Given a maximum step size, h*, we specify variable (adaptive) step sizes relative to h* which decrease as the time node points approach the singularity. We use an Euler-type numerical scheme to produce an approximate solution and estimate the error in the approximation. When the solution is restricted to a fixed closed time interval excluding the singularity, we obtain a global pointwise error of order Oh*. An order of error Oh*p for any p<1 is obtained when the approximation is run up to a time within h*q of the singularity for an appropriate choice of exponent q. We apply this scheme to Brownian bridge, which is defined as the nonanticipating solution of a stochastic differential equation of the type under consideration. In this special case, we show that the global pointwise error is of order Oh*, independent of how close to the singularity the approximation is considered.
Two-Dimensional Time-Domain Antenna Arrays for Optimum Steerable Energy Pattern with Low Side Lobes
Authors: Reyna Alberto , Panduro Marco A. , Romero Gerardo , Villanueva Juvenal , Rivera Fernando F. , Méndez Aldo L.
Published: July 2014

This document presents the synthesis of different two-dimensional time-domain antenna arrays for steerable energy patterns with side lobe levels. The research is focused on the uniform and nonuniform distributions of true-time exciting delays and positions of antenna elements. The uniform square array, random array, uniform concentric ring array, and rotated nonuniform concentric ring array geometries are particularly studied. These geometries are synthesized by using the well-known sequential quadratic programming. The synthesis regards the optimal true-time exciting delays and optimal positions of pulsed antenna elements. The results show the capabilities of the different antenna arrays to steer the beam in their energy pattern in time domain and how their performance is in frequency domain after the synthesis in time domain.
Options Procurement Policy for Option Contracts with Supply and Spot Market Uncertainty
Authors: Xue Weili , Xu Xiaolin , Ma Lijun
Published: July 2014

Supplier’s reliability is a major issue in procurement management. In this paper, we establish a decision making model from the perspective of the firm who will procure from the multiple suppliers and the spot markets. The suppliers are unreliable and provide different types of option-type supply contracts which should be made before demand realization, while the spot market can only be used after demand realization and has both the price and liquidity risks. We establish the optimal portfolio policies for the firm with conditions to find the qualified suppliers. By defining a new function which contains the demand risk, the supplier’s risk, and the liquidity risk, we find that the optimal policy is to allocate different curves of this function to different suppliers. We also study some special cases to derive some managerial insights. At last, we numerically study how the various risks affect the choice of suppliers and the value of the option contract.
Comparison of Behaviour in Different Liquids and in Cells of Gold Nanorods and Spherical Nanoparticles Modified by Linear Polyethyleneimine and Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Pyshnaya Inna A. , Razum Kristina V. , Poletaeva Julia E. , Pyshnyi Dmitrii V. , Zenkova Marina A. , Ryabchikova Elena I.
Published: July 2014

Gold nanorods (GNRs) are considered one of the most promising forms of nanoparticles for nanobiotechnology; however, the problem of their toxicity is currently not resolved. We synthesised GNRs, modified with linear polyethyleneimine (PEI-GNRs), and examined their physicochemical and some biological properties in comparison with GNRs modified with BSA and spherical gold nanoparticles (sGNPs) modified with the same agents. The influence of the buffer, cell culture media, and serum on hydrodynamic diameter and zeta potential of all GNPs was studied. Simultaneously, the size, shape, and formation of a corona were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). PEI-GNRs and GNPs were nontoxic for BHK-21 and HeLa cells (MTT test). Penetration of all GNPs into BHK-21, melanoma B16, and HeLa cells was examined after 30 min, 3 h, and 24 h of incubation using TEM ultrathin sections. PEI-GNRs and PEI-sGNPs demonstrated fast and active penetration into cells by caveolin-dependent and lipid raft-mediated endocytosis and accumulated in endosomes and lysosomes. BSA-modified GNPs showed prolonged flotation and a significant delay in cell penetration. The results show that the charge of initial NPs determines penetration into cells. Thus, the designed PEI-GNRs were nontoxic and stable in cell culture media and could efficiently penetrate cells.
Drug-Induced QT Prolongation as a Result of an Escitalopram Overdose in a Patient with Previously Undiagnosed Congenital Long QT Syndrome
Authors: Singh Paul , Maldonado-Duran J. Martin
Published: July 2014

We present a case of drug-induced QT prolongation caused by an escitalopram overdose in a patient with previously undiagnosed congenital LQTS. A 15-year-old Caucasian female presented following a suicide attempt via an escitalopram overdose. The patient was found to have a prolonged QT interval with episodes of torsades de pointes. The patient was admitted to the telemetry unit and treated. Despite the resolution of the torsades de pointes, she continued to demonstrate a persistently prolonged QT interval. She was seen by the cardiology service and diagnosed with congenital long QT syndrome. This case illustrates the potential for an escitalopram overdose to cause an acute QT prolongation in a patient with congenital LQTS and suggests the importance of a screening electrocardiogram prior to the initiation of SSRIs, especially in patients at high risk for QT prolongation.
Haplotype Map of Sickle Cell Anemia in Tunisia
Authors: Moumni Imen , Ben Mustapha Maha , Sassi Sarra , Zorai Amine , Ben Mansour Ikbel , Douzi Kais , Chouachi Dorra , Mellouli Fethi , Bejaoui Mohamed , Abbes Salem
Published: July 2014

β-Globin haplotypes are important to establish the ethnic origin and predict the clinical development of sickle cell disease patients (SCD). To determine the chromosomal background ofβSTunisian sickle cell patients, in this first study in Tunisia, we have explored four polymorphic regions ofβ-globin cluster on chromosome 11. It is the 5′ region ofβ-LCR-HS2site, the intervening sequence II (IVSII) region of two fetal (γGandγA) genes and the 5′ region ofβ-globingene. The results reveal a high molecular diversity of a microsatellite configuration describing the sequences haplotypes. The linkage disequilibrium analysis showed various haplotype combinations giving 22 “extended haplotypes”. These results confirm the utility of theβ-globin haplotypes for population studies and contribute to knowledge of the Tunisian gene pool, as well as establishing the role of genetic markers in physiopathology of SCD.
A New Model for Providing Cell-Free DNA and Risk Assessment for Chromosome Abnormalities in a Public Hospital Setting
Authors: Wallerstein Robert , Jelks Andrea , Garabedian Matthew J.
Published: July 2014

Objective. Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) offers highly accurate noninvasive screening for Down syndrome. Incorporating it into routine care is complicated. We present our experience implementing a novel program for cfDNA screening, emphasizing patient education, genetic counseling, and resource management.Study Design. Beginning in January 2013, we initiated a new patient care model in which high-risk patients for aneuploidy received genetic counseling at 12 weeks of gestation. Patients were presented with four pathways for aneuploidy risk assessment and diagnosis: (1) cfDNA; (2) integrated screening; (3) direct-to-invasive testing (chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis); or (4) no first trimester diagnostic testing/screening. Patients underwent follow-up genetic counseling and detailed ultrasound at 18–20 weeks to review first trimester testing and finalize decision for amniocentesis.Results. Counseling and second trimester detailed ultrasound were provided to 163 women. Most selected cfDNA screening (69%) over integrated screening (0.6%), direct-to-invasive testing (14.1%), or no screening (16.6%). Amniocentesis rates decreased following implementation of cfDNA screening (19.0% versus 13.0%,P<0.05).Conclusion. When counseled about screening options, women often chose cfDNA over integrated screening. This program is a model for patient-directed, efficient delivery of a newly available high-level technology in a public health setting. Genetic counseling is an integral part of patient education and determination of plan of care.
An Investigation of Proton Conductivity of Vinyltriazole-Grafted PVDF Proton Exchange Membranes Prepared via Photoinduced Grafting
Authors: Sezgin Sinan , Sinirlioglu Deniz , Muftuoglu Ali Ekrem , Bozkurt Ayhan
Published: July 2014

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are considered to be a promising technology for clean and efficient power generation in the twenty-first century. In this study, high performance of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and proton conductivity of poly(1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole) (PVTri) were combined in a graft copolymer, PVDF-g-PVTri, by the polymerization of 1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole on a PVDF based matrix under UV light in one step. The polymers were doped with triflic acid (TA) at different stoichiometric ratios with respect to triazole units and the anhydrous polymer electrolyte membranes were prepared. All samples were characterized by FTIR and1H-NMR spectroscopies. Their thermal properties were examined by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). TGA demonstrated that the PVDF-g-PVTri and PVDF-g-PVTri-(TA)x membranes were thermally stable up to 390°C and 330°C, respectively. NMR and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) results demonstrated that PVDF-g-PVTri was successfully synthesized with a degree of grafting of 21%. PVDF-g-PVTri-(TA)3showed a maximum proton conductivity of6×10-3 Scm−1at 150°C and anhydrous conditions. CV study illustrated that electrochemical stability domain for PVDF-g-PVTri-(TA)3extended over 4.0 V.
A Hybrid Technique Based on the Combination of Multilevel Fast Multipole Algorithm and the Geometrical Theory of Diffraction
Authors: Algar María-Jesús , Moreno Javier , González Iván , Lozano Lorena , Cátedra Felipe
Published: July 2014

This paper proposes a hybrid technique for treating electromagnetic problems of scattering and radiation in which the source structure is described as an array of antennas. This strategy is based on the combination of the rigorous method multilevel fast multipole algorithm (MLFMA) and the high frequency technique geometrical theory of diffraction (GTD). Thanks to the use of MLFMA, the source can be discretized into several cubic regions considering each of them as a source point in order to reduce the number of times required to compute the ray tracing when GTD is applied to obtain the scatter field. In this analysis, objects with complex shapes are described by using nonuniform rational B-splines (NURBS) which is a very common way to model geometrical bodies. Numerical results that demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency in terms of CPU time are shown.
MET-Mediated Resistance to EGFR Inhibitors: An Old Liaison Rooted in Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Boccaccio Carla , Luraghi Paolo , Comoglio Paolo M.
Published: July 2014

Inhibitors of EGFR are currently approved for the therapy of metastatic colorectal cancer (as well as other tumors), but their benefits are limited by inherent and acquired resistance, whose mechanisms are the subject of intense investigation. It is known that such resistance relies on a handful of genetic lesions and/or extracellular signals bypassing the requirement of EGF for cell proliferation and survival. As recently shown, these mechanisms may imply oncogenic activation of MET or its stimulation by the ligand hepatocyte growth factor. However, it is still largely obscure if sensitivity or resistance to EGFR inhibitors operates in cancer stem cells. Convincing evidence indicates that this elusive cell subpopulation is present at the roots of colorectal cancer. Conceivably, cancer stem cells accumulate the genetic lesions driving tumor onset and progression, as well as the genetic determinants of sensitivity or resistance to conventional and targeted therapies. Recent studies enlighten the expression of functional EGFR and MET in colorectal cancer stem cells and the outcome of their inhibition. Evidence is provided that, in patients sensitive to EGFR therapy, association of MET inhibitors fosters cancer stem cell eradication and durable tumor regression. Cancer Res; 74(14); 3647–51. ©2014 AACR.