bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Breakpoint in Hybrid Particle Swarm-Neural Network Architecture: Individual Boundary Adjustment
Authors: Ceylan Rahime , Koyuncu Hasan
Published: August 2016

Neural Network (NN) is an effective classifier, but it generally uses the Backpropagation type algorithms which are insufficient because of trapping to local minimum of error rate. For elimination of this handicap, stochastic optimization algorithms are used to update the parameters of NN. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is one of these providing a robust coherence with NN. In realized studies about Hybrid PSO-NN, position and velocity boundaries of weight and bias are chosen equal or set free in space which leave the performance of PSO-NN in suspense. In this paper, the limitations of weight velocity (wv), weight position (wp), bias velocity (bv) and bias position (bp) are diversely changed and their effects on the output of hybrid structure are examined. Concerning this, the formed structure is called as Bounded PSO-NN on account of adjusting the optimum operating conditions (intervals). On performance evaluation, proposed method is tested on binary and multiclass pattern classification by using six medical datasets: Wisconsin Breast Cancer (WBC), Pima Indian Diabetes (PID), Bupa Liver Disorders (BLD), Heart Statlog (HS), Breast Tissue (BT) and Dermatology Data (DD). Upon analyzing the results, it was revealed that Bounded PSO-NN has a faster processing time than general PSO-NNs in which set-free and wpi[Formula: see text]bpi and wvi[Formula: see text]bvi conditions are settled. The superiority in terms of processing time is about 199[Formula: see text]s (set-free) and 307[Formula: see text]s (wpi[Formula: see text]bpi and wvi[Formula: see text]bvi) for training, about 16[Formula: see text]ms (set-free) and 9[Formula: see text]ms (wpi[Formula: see text]bpi and wvi[Formula: see text]bvi) for test. In terms of classification performance, PSO-NN (set-free condition), PSO-NN (wpi[Formula: see text]bpi & wvi[Formula: see text]bvi) and PSO-NN with individual boundary adjustment (bounded PSO-NN) respectively achieves to accuracy rates as 69.84%, 95.31% and 97.22% on WBC, 47.01%, 76.69% and 77.73% on PID, 55.36%, 67.54% and 73.91% on BLD, 64.82%, 81.48% and 85.56% on HS, 75%, 92.31% and 100% on BT, 27.47%, 92.31% and 100% on DD. In the light of experiments, it is seen that Bounded PSO-NN is better than general PSO-NNs for obtaining the optimum results. Consequently, the importance of limitations is clarified and it is proven that each limitation must be adjusted individually, not be set free or not be chosen equal.
Algebraic formulation of quantum theory, particle identity and entanglement
Authors: Govindarajan T. R.
Published: August 2016

Quantum theory as formulated in conventional framework using statevectors in Hilbert spaces misses the statistical nature of the underlying quantum physics. Formulation using operators [Formula: see text] algebra and density matrices appropriately captures this feature in addition leading to the correct formulation of particle identity. In this framework, Hilbert space is an emergent concept. Problems related to anomalies and quantum epistemology are discussed.
Pais–Uhlenbeck oscillator and negative energies
Authors: Pavšič Matej
Published: August 2016

We review the occurrence of negative energies in Pais–Uhlenbeck oscillator. We point out that in the absence of interactions, negative energies are not problematic neither in the classical nor in the quantized theory. However, in the presence of interactions that couple positive and negative energy degrees of freedom, the system is unstable, unless the potential is bounded from below and above. We review some approaches in the literature that attempt to avoid the problem of negative energies in the Pais–Uhlenbeck oscillator.
Using a simulation software to perform energy and exergy analyses of the sulfur-iodine thermochemical process
Authors: Nyoni Bothwell , Hlabano-Moyo Bongibethu Msekeli , Chimwe Clive
Published: August 2016

The objective of this work is to demonstrate the utilization of the power of simulation tools to perform an exergy analysis of a process. Exergy analysis, being a new and useful thermodynamics tool, will be applied to one of the newest research fields in hydrogen production. One of the many advantages of computer simulation is elimination of the need to construct a pilot plant. Presently, extensive research is underway to come up with the production and use of clean fuels. The research entails performing pilot studies and proof of concept experiments using validated models. The research is further extended to various analyses such as safety, economic sustainability and energy efficiency of the processes involved. The production of hydrogen through thermochemical water splitting processes is one of the newest technologies and is expected to compete with the existing technologies. Among a wide range of thermochemical cycles, the sulfur-iodine (SI) thermochemical cycle process has been proposed as a promising technology for the production of hydrogen. In this research, we demonstrate how a commercial simulator can be used to perform an energy and exergy analysis of the SI water splitting process. Using a commercial simulator, a process flowsheet is developed based on research findings presented by other authors and an energy-exergy analysis is carried out on the process. The method of energy–exergy analysis used in this presentation indicates that an energy and exergy efficiency of 17% and 24% can be attained, respectively, in the conceptual design of the SI cycle.
Nonlinear Free and Forced Vibration Behavior of Shear-Deformable Composite Beams with Shape Memory Alloy Fibers
Authors: Yongsheng Ren , Chenggang Du , Yuyan Shi
Published: August 2016

The nonlinear free and forced vibration of the composite beams embedded with shape memory alloy (SMA) fibers are investigated based on first-order shear deformation beam theory and the von Kármán type nonlinear strain-displacement equation. A thermomechanical constitutive equation of SMA proposed by Brinson is used to calculate the recovery stress of the constrained SMA fibers. The equations of motion are derived by using Hamilton’s principle. The approximate solution is obtained for vibration analysis of the composite beams based on the Galerkin approach. The parametric study is carried out to display the effect of the actuation temperature, the volume fraction, the initial strain of SMA fibers, and the length-to-thickness ratio. The shear deformation is shown to have a significant contribution to nonlinear vibration behavior of the composite beams with SMA fibers.
Compressed Sensing, Pseudodictionary-Based, Superresolution Reconstruction
Authors: Li Chun-mei , Deng Ka-zhong , Sun Jiu-yun , Wang Hui
Published: August 2016

The spatial resolution of digital images is the critical factor that affects photogrammetry precision. Single-frame, superresolution, image reconstruction is a typical underdetermined, inverse problem. To solve this type of problem, a compressive, sensing, pseudodictionary-based, superresolution reconstruction method is proposed in this study. The proposed method achieves pseudodictionary learning with an available low-resolution image and uses theK-SVD algorithm, which is based on the sparse characteristics of the digital image. Then, the sparse representation coefficient of the low-resolution image is obtained by solving the norm ofl0minimization problem, and the sparse coefficient and high-resolution pseudodictionary are used to reconstruct image tiles with high resolution. Finally, single-frame-image superresolution reconstruction is achieved. The proposed method is applied to photogrammetric images, and the experimental results indicate that the proposed method effectively increase image resolution, increase image information content, and achieve superresolution reconstruction. The reconstructed results are better than those obtained from traditional interpolation methods in aspect of visual effects and quantitative indicators.
Therapeutic Strategies in HCC: Radiation Modalities
Authors: Gallicchio R. , Nardelli A. , Mainenti P. , Nappi A. , Capacchione D. , Simeon V. , Sirignano C. , Abbruzzi F. , Barbato F. , Landriscina M. , Storto G.
Published: August 2016

Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) comply with an advanced disease and are not eligible for radical therapy. In this distressed scenario new treatment options hold great promise; among them transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and transarterial metabolic radiotherapy (TAMR) have shown efficacy in terms of both tumor shrinking and survival. External radiation therapy (RTx) by using novel three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy has also been used for HCC patients with encouraging results while its role had been limited in the past for the low tolerance of surrounding healthy liver. The rationale of TAMR derives from the idea of delivering exceptional radiation dose locally to the tumor, with cell killing intent, while preserving normal liver from undue exposition and minimizing systemic irradiation. Since the therapeutic efficacy of TACE is being continuously disputed, the TAMR with131I Lipiodol or90Y microspheres has gained consideration providing adequate therapeutic responses regardless of few toxicities. The implementation of novel radioisotopes and technological innovations in the field of RTx constitutes an intriguing field of research with important translational aspects. Moreover, the combination of different therapeutic approaches including chemotherapy offers captivating perspectives. We present the role of the radiation-based therapies in hepatocellular carcinoma patients who are not entitled for radical treatment.
Forced Response of Polar Orthotropic Tapered Circular Plates Resting on Elastic Foundation
Authors: Ansari A. H.
Published: August 2016

Forced axisymmetric response of polar orthotropic circular plates of linearly varying thickness resting on Winkler type of elastic foundation has been studied on the basis of classical plate theory. An approximate solution of problem has been obtained by Rayleigh Ritz method, which employs functions based upon the static deflection of polar orthotropic circular plates. The effect of transverse loadings has been studied for orthotropic circular plate resting on elastic foundation. The transverse deflections and bending moments are presented for various values of taper parameter, rigidity ratio, foundation parameter, and flexibility parameter under different types of loadings. A comparison of results with those available in literature shows an excellent agreement.
Histopathological Analysis of PEEK Wear Particle Effects on the Synovial Tissue of Patients
Authors: Paulus A. C. , Haßelt S. , Jansson V. , Giurea A. , Neuhaus H. , Grupp T. M. , Utzschneider S.
Published: August 2016

Introduction. Increasing interest developed in the use of carbon-fiber-reinforced-poly-ether-ether-ketones (CFR-PEEK) as an alternative bearing material in knee arthroplasty. The effects of CFR-PEEK wear inin vitroand animal studies are controversially discussed, as there are no data available concerning human tissue. The aim of this study was to analyze human tissue containing CFR-PEEK as well as UHMWPE wear debris. The authors hypothesized no difference between the used biomaterials.Methods and Materials. In 10 patients during knee revision surgery of a rotating-hinge-knee-implant-design, synovial tissue samples were achieved (tibial inserts: UHMWPE; bushings and flanges: CFR-PEEK). One additional patient received revision surgery without any PEEK components as a control. The tissue was paraffin-embedded, sliced into 2 μm thick sections, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin in a standard process. A modified panoptical staining was also done.Results. A “wear-type” reaction was seen in the testing and the control group. In all samples, the UHMWPE particles were scattered in the tissue or incorporated in giant cells. CFR-PEEK particles were seen as conglomerates and only could be found next to vessels. CFR-PEEK particles showed no giant-cell reactions. In conclusion, the hypothesis has to be rejected. UHMWPE and PEEK showed a different scatter-behavior in human synovial tissue.
Ventricular Septal Defect from Takotsubo Syndrome
Authors: Lu Daniel Y. , Caplow Julie , Quatromoni Neha , Forde-McLean Rhondalyn , Owens Anjali Tiku
Published: August 2016

Takotsubo Syndrome is a transient condition characterized by left ventricular systolic dysfunction with apical akinesis/dyskinesis and ballooning. Although the prognosis with medical management is excellent in most cases, rare cases of serious complications can occur. We present here a case of a 71-year-old woman presenting with acute decompensated heart failure with initial findings consistent with a myocardial infarction, who was found instead to have an acute ventricular septal defect as a complication of Takotsubo Syndrome.
Biodiversity, the Human Microbiome and Mental Health: Moving toward a New Clinical Ecology for the 21st Century?
Authors: Prescott Susan L. , Millstein Rachel A. , Katzman Martin A. , Logan Alan C.
Published: August 2016

Advances in research concerning the brain-related influences of the microbiome have been paradigm shifting, although at an early stage, clinical research involving beneficial microbes lends credence to the notion that the microbiome may be an important target in supporting mental health (defined here along the continuum between quality of life and the criteria for specific disorders). Through metagenomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and systems biology, a new emphasis to personalized medicine is on the horizon. Humans can now be viewed as multispecies organisms operating within an ecological theatre; it is important that clinicians increasingly see their patients in this context. Historically marginalized ecological aspects of health are destined to become an important consideration in the new frontiers of practicing medicine with the microbiome in mind. Emerging evidence indicates that macrobiodiversity in the external environment can influence mental well-being. Local biodiversity may also drive differences in human-associated microbiota; microbial diversity as a product of external biodiversity may have far-reaching effects on immune function and mood. With a focus on the microbiome as it pertains to mental health, we define environmental “grey space” and emphasize a new frontier involving bio-eco-psychological medicine. Within this concept the ecological terrain can link dysbiotic lifestyles and biodiversity on the grand scale to the local human-associated microbial ecosystems that might otherwise seem far removed from one another.
The Expanded Bead Size of Corneal C-Nerve Fibers Visualized by Corneal Confocal Microscopy Is Associated with Slow Conduction Velocity of the Peripheral Nerves in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ishibashi Fukashi , Kojima Rie , Taniguchi Miki , Kosaka Aiko , Uetake Harumi , Tavakoli Mitra
Published: August 2016

This study aims to establish the corneal nerve fiber (CNF) morphological alterations in a large cohort of type 2 diabetic patients and to investigate the association between the bead size, a novel parameter representing composite of accumulated mitochondria, glycogen particles, and vesicles in CNF, and the neurophysiological dysfunctions of the peripheral nerves. 162 type 2 diabetic patients and 45 healthy control subjects were studied in detail with a battery of clinical and neurological examinations and corneal confocal microscopy. Compared with controls, patients had abnormal CNF parameters. In particular the patients had reduced density and length of CNF and beading frequency and increased bead size. Alterations in CNF parameters were significant even in patients without neuropathy. The HbA1c levels were tightly associated with the bead size, which was inversely related to the motor and sensory nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and to the distal latency period of the median nerve positively. The CNF density and length positively correlated with the NCV and amplitude. The hyperglycemia-induced expansion of beads in CNF might be a predictor of slow NCV in peripheral nerves in type 2 diabetic patients.
Research on Effects of Blast Casting Vibration and Vibration Absorption of Presplitting Blasting in Open Cast Mine
Authors: Ma Li , Li Kemin , Xiao Shuangshuang , Ding Xiaohua , Chinyanta Sydney
Published: August 2016

The impact energy produced by blast casting is able to break and cast rocks, yet the strong vibration effects caused at the same time would threaten the safety of mines. Based on the theory of Janbu’s Limit Equilibrium Method (LEM), pseudo-static method has been incorporated to analyze the influence of dynamic loads of blasting on slope stability. The horizontal loads produced by blast vibrations cause an increase in sliding forces, and this leads to a lower slope stability coefficient. When the tensile stresses of the two adjacent blast holes are greater than the tensile strength of rock mass, the radical oriented cracks are formed, which is the precondition for the formation of presplit face. Thus, the formula for calculating the blast hole spacing of presplit blasting can be obtained. Based on the analysis of the principles of vibration tester and vibration pick-up in detecting blast vibrations, a detection scheme of blast vibration is worked out by taking the blast area with precrack rear and non-precrack side of the detection object. The detection and research results of blast vibration show that presplit blasting can reduce the attenuation coefficient of stress wave by half, and the vibration absorption ratio could reach 50.2%; the impact of dynamic loads on the end-wall slope stability coefficient is 1.98%, which proves that presplit blasting plays an important role in shock absorption of blast casting.
Nonlinear Dynamic Behaviors of Rotated Blades with Small Breathing Cracks Based on Vibration Power Flow Analysis
Authors: Xu Hailong , Chen Zhongsheng , Xiong Yeping , Yang Yongmin , Tao Limin
Published: August 2016

Rotated blades are key mechanical components in turbomachinery and high cycle fatigues often induce blade cracks. Accurate detection of small cracks in rotated blades is very significant for safety, reliability, and availability. In nature, a breathing crack model is fit for a small crack in a rotated blade rather than other models. However, traditional vibration displacements-based methods are less sensitive to nonlinear characteristics due to small breathing cracks. In order to solve this problem, vibration power flow analysis (VPFA) is proposed to analyze nonlinear dynamic behaviors of rotated blades with small breathing cracks in this paper. Firstly, local flexibility due to a crack is derived and then time-varying dynamic model of the rotated blade with a small breathing crack is built. Based on it, the corresponding vibration power flow model is presented. Finally, VPFA-based numerical simulations are done to validate nonlinear behaviors of the cracked blade. The results demonstrate that nonlinear behaviors of a crack can be enhanced by power flow analysis and VPFA is more sensitive to a small breathing crack than displacements-based vibration analysis. Bifurcations will occur due to breathing cracks and subharmonic resonance factors can be defined to identify breathing cracks. Thus the proposed method can provide a promising way for detecting and predicting small breathing cracks in rotated blades.
Multialgorithmic Frameworks for Human Face Recognition
Authors: Shyam Radhey , Singh Yogendra Narain
Published: August 2016

This paper presents a critical evaluation of multialgorithmic face recognition systems for human authentication in unconstrained environment. We propose different frameworks of multialgorithmic face recognition system combining holistic and texture methods. Our aim is to combine the uncorrelated methods of the face recognition that supplement each other and to produce a comprehensive representation of the biometric cue to achieve optimum recognition performance. The multialgorithmic frameworks are designed to combine different face recognition methods such as (i) Eigenfaces and local binary pattern (LBP), (ii) Fisherfaces and LBP, (iii) Eigenfaces and augmented local binary pattern (A-LBP), and (iv) Fisherfaces and A-LBP. The matching scores of these multialgorithmic frameworks are processed using different normalization techniques whereas their performance is evaluated using different fusion strategies. The robustness of proposed multialgorithmic frameworks of face recognition system is tested on publicly available databases, for example, AT & T (ORL) and Labeled Faces in the Wild (LFW). The experimental results show a significant improvement in recognition accuracies of the proposed frameworks of face recognition system in comparison to their individual methods. In particular, the performance of the multialgorithmic frameworks combining face recognition methods with the devised face recognition method such as A-LBP improves significantly.
Development of Primer Pairs from Molecular Typing of Rabies Virus Variants Present in Mexico
Authors: Bastida-González Fernando , Ramírez-Hernández Dolores G. , Chavira-Suárez Erika , Lara-Padilla Eleazar , Zárate-Segura Paola
Published: August 2016

Nucleoprotein (N) gene from rabies virus (RABV) is a useful sequence target for variant studies. Several specific RABV variants have been characterized in different mammalian hosts such as skunk, dog, and bats by using anti-nucleocapsid monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) via indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) test, a technique not available in many laboratories in Mexico. In the present study, a total of 158 sequences of N gene from RABV were used to design eight pairs of primers (four external and four internal primers), for typing four different RABV variants (dog, skunk, vampire bat, and nonhematophagous bat) which are most common in Mexico. The results indicate that the primer and the typing variant from the brain samples, submitted to nested and/or real-time PCR, are in agreement in all four singleplex reactions, and the designed primer pairs are an alternative for use in specific variant RABV typing.
Phytochemical Profile and Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Medicinal Plants Used by Aboriginal People of New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Akter Kaisarun , Barnes Emma C. , Brophy Joseph J. , Harrington David , Community Elders Yaegl , Vemulpad Subramanyam R. , Jamie Joanne F.
Published: August 2016

Aboriginal people of Australia possess a rich knowledge on the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of sores, wounds, and skin infections, ailments which impose a high global disease burden and require effective treatments. The antibacterial and antioxidant activities and phytochemical contents of extracts, obtained from eight medicinal plants used by Aboriginal people of New South Wales, Australia, for the treatment of skin related ailments, were assessed to add value to and provide an evidence‐base for their traditional uses. Extracts of Acacia implexa, Acacia falcata, Cassytha glabella, Eucalyptus haemastoma, Smilax glyciphylla, Sterculia quadrifida, and Syncarpia glomulifera were evaluated. All extracts except that of S. quadrifida showed activity against sensitive and multidrug resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus with minimum inhibitory concentration values ranging from 7.81 to 1000 μg/mL. The sap of E. haemastoma and bark of A. implexa possessed high total phenolic contents (TPC) and strong DPPH radical scavenging abilities. A positive correlation was observed between TPC and free radical scavenging ability. GC‐MS analysis of the n‐hexane extract of S. glomulifera identified known antimicrobial compounds. Together, these results support the traditional uses of the examined plants for the treatment of skin related ailments and infections by Aboriginal people of New South Wales, Australia.
A Hybrid Programming Framework for Modeling and Solving Constraint Satisfaction and Optimization Problems
Authors: Sitek Paweł , Wikarek Jarosław
Published: August 2016

This paper proposes a hybrid programming framework for modeling and solving of constraint satisfaction problems (CSPs) and constraint optimization problems (COPs). Two paradigms, CLP (constraint logic programming) and MP (mathematical programming), are integrated in the framework. The integration is supplemented with the original method of problem transformation, used in the framework as a presolving method. The transformation substantially reduces the feasible solution space. The framework automatically generates CSP and COP models based on current values of data instances, questions asked by a user, and set of predicates and facts of the problem being modeled, which altogether constitute a knowledge database for the given problem. This dynamic generation of dedicated models, based on the knowledge base, together with the parameters changing externally, for example, the user’s questions, is the implementation of the autonomous search concept. The models are solved using the internal or external solvers integrated with the framework. The architecture of the framework as well as its implementation outline is also included in the paper. The effectiveness of the framework regarding the modeling and solution search is assessed through the illustrative examples relating to scheduling problems with additional constrained resources.
Modeling the Separating Pedestrian Flow in T-Shaped Passage Based on Guide Sign
Authors: Jia Hong-fei , Li Yong-xing , Yang Li-li , Zhou Ya-nan
Published: August 2016

Considering the actual situation of separating pedestrian flow in T-shaped passage, the guide sign is set to guide the pedestrians and subconscious strength is introduced to show the effect of guide sign. Pedestrian subconscious strength model is established, and the subconscious strength calculation result is added to the pedestrian simulation model which is based on cellular automata. On the platform of MATLAB software, separating pedestrian flow simulation with the effect of guide sign is realized. Simulations indicate that, compared with the separating pedestrian flow without guide sign, the efficiency of pedestrians passing with guide sign is higher. Analyzing the effect of guide sign in different positions, the suitable position of guide sign is obtained.
Influence of Temperature on Free Radical Generation in Propolis‐Containing Ointments
Authors: Olczyk Paweł , Ramos Pawel , Komosinska-Vassev Katarzyna , Mencner Lukasz , Olczyk Krystyna , Pilawa Barbara
Published: August 2016

Free radicals thermally generated in the ointments containing propolis were studied by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The influence of temperature on the free radical concentration in the propolis ointments was examined. Two ointment samples with different contents of propolis (5 and 7%, resp.) heated at temperatures of 30°C, 40°C, 50°C, and 60°C, for 30 min., were tested. Homogeneously broadened EPR lines and fast spin‐lattice interactions characterized all the tested samples. Free radicals concentrations in the propolis samples ranged from 1018 to 1020 spin/g and were found to grow in both propolis‐containing ointments along with the increasing heating temperature. Free radical concentrations in the ointments containing 5% and 7% of propolis, respectively, heated at temperatures of 30°C, 40°C, and 50°C were only slightly different. Thermal treatment at the temperature of 60°C resulted in a considerably higher free radical formation in the sample containing 7% of propolis when related to the sample with 5% of that compound. The EPR examination indicated that the propolis ointments should not be stored at temperatures of 40°C, 50°C, and 60°C. Low free radical formation at the lowest tested temperatures pointed out that both examined propolis ointments may be safely stored up to the temperature of 30°C.
Systemic Redox Imbalance in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Poulianiti Konstantina P. , Kaltsatou Antonia , Mitrou Georgia I. , Jamurtas Athanasios Z. , Koutedakis Yiannis , Maridaki Maria , Stefanidis Ioannis , Sakkas Giorgos K. , Karatzaferi Christina
Published: August 2016

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience imbalance between oxygen reactive species (ROS) production and antioxidant defenses leading to cell and tissue damage. However, it remains unclear at which stage of renal insufficiency the redox imbalance becomes more profound. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an update on recent advances in our understanding of how the redox status changes in the progression of renal disease from predialysis stages 1 to 4 to end stage 5 and whether the various treatments and dialysis modalities influence the redox balance. A systematic review was conducted searching PubMed and Scopus by using the Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. In total, thirty‐nine studies met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Even from an early stage, imbalance in redox status is evident and as the kidney function worsens it becomes more profound. Hemodialysis therapy per se seems to negatively influence the redox status by the elevation of lipid peroxidation markers, protein carbonylation, and impairing erythrocyte antioxidant defense. However, other dialysis modalities do not so far appear to confer advantages. Supplementation with antioxidants might assist and should be considered as an early intervention to halt premature atherogenesis development at an early stage of CKD.
PCM Heat Storage Charged with a Double-Reflector Solar System
Authors: Veremachi Amos , Cuamba Boaventura Chongo , Zia Azher , Lovseth Jorgen , Nydal Ole Jorgen
Published: August 2016

A “Solar Salt” (NaNO3–KNO360 : 40 molar mixture) latent heat storage has been charged by direct solar illumination. Solar Salt as a Phase Change Material (PCM) can be an attractive small scale heat storage solution, as the melting temperature of about 220°C can be suitable for cooking purposes. The tests were made with a double-reflector setup. In this setup a secondary reflector positioned above the focal point of the primary reflector directs the rays onto a heat storage positioned below a hole in the primary reflector. The reflectors are tracking the sun, but the storage is stationary. The direct illumination of the absorber top plate during the tracking of the sun melted the salt in the storage through conducting fins. This is a system where portable heat batteries can be charged, during sunshine hours, and then provide heat for cooking during evening times.
Development and Application of a Novel Model System to Study “Active” and “Passive” Tumor Targeting
Authors: Mukherjee Amarnath , Kumar Binod , Hatano Koji , Russell Luisa M. , Trock Bruce J. , Searson Peter C. , Meeker Alan K. , Pomper Martin G. , Lupold Shawn E.
Published: August 2016

Macromolecular reagents can be targeted to tumors through active and passive mechanisms. “Active” targeting involves moieties, such as receptor ligands, to direct tumor cell binding, whereas “passive” targeting relies on long reagent circulating half-life, abnormal tumor vasculature, and poor lymphatic drainage for tumor entrapment. Here, we sought to study the impact of reagent circulating half-life on “active” and “passive” tumor uptake. The humanized prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeting antibody HuJ591 was used as the “active” targeting agent. HuJ591 was labeled with a Near Infrared (NIR) dye and its circulating half-life was modified by conjugation to high-molecular-weight Polyethylene Glycol (PEG). PEGylation did not negatively impact PSMA-binding specificity. “Active” and “passive” tumor targeting of intravenously injected antibody conjugates were then quantified by NIR fluorescent imaging of immunocompromised mice bearing bilateral isogenic PSMA-positive and PSMA-negative human tumor xenografts. Two isogenic tumor pairs were applied, PC3 ± PSMA (PC3-PIP/PC3-Flu) or LMD-MDA-MB-231 ± PSMA (LMD-PSMA/LMD). This study provided a unique model system to simultaneously observe “active” and “passive” tumor targeting within a single animal. “Passive” targeting was observed in all PSMA-negative tumors, and was not enhanced by increased HuJ591 size or extended circulating half-life. Interestingly, “active” targeting was only successful in some situations. Both PSMA-positive tumor models could be actively targeted with J591-IR800 and J591-PEG10K. However, the larger J591-PEG30K enhanced “active” targeting in the PC-3 tumor models, but inhibited “active” targeting the LMD-MDA-MB-231 tumor model. Successful “active” targeting was associated with higher PSMA expression. These results support the potential for “active” targeting to enhance overall macromolecular reagent uptake within tumors. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(10); 2541–50. ©2016 AACR.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Characteristics of Subcutaneously Applied PTH-1-37
Authors: Forssmann Wolf-Georg , Tillmann Hanns-Christian , Hock Dieter , Forssmann Kristin , Bernasconi Corrado , Forssmann Ulf , Richter Rudolf , Hocher Berthold , Pfützner Andreas
Published: August 2016

Background/Aims: Parathyroid hormone (PTH) derivatives exert pronounced renal and osteoanabolic properties when given intermittently. The current study was performed to assess the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties as well as safety of subcutaneously applied PTH-1-37 after repeated dosing in healthy subjects. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, dose-escalating, placebo and active comparator controlled study was conducted in 33 healthy postmenopausal women. Subjects were allocated to one of five treatment options: 10, 20, or 40 µg PTH-1-37, 20 µg PTH-1-34 or placebo, administered as once daily subcutaneous doses for three days. Plasma drug concentrations and serum levels of endogenous PTH-1-84, and calcium as markers of biological activity were monitored during the treatment. Results: PTH was absorbed rapidly from the subcutaneous tissue with a median tmax of 30 minutes for 20 and 40 µg of PTH-1-37. tmax was 45 minutes for 20 µg PTH-1-34. Elimination half-lives were estimated as 76 ± 34 min and 70 ± 13 min for 20 µg and 40 µg PTH-1-37 (mean ± SD), and 78 ± 34 for 20 µg PTH-1-34. Both PTH fragments (PTH-1-37 and PTH-1-34) increased serum calcium. For PTH-1-37 the effect on serum calcium was dose-dependent. Suppression of endogenous PTH-1-84 was seen after the application of both PTH-1-37 and PTH-1-34. During the study period, the subjects experienced no unexpected or serious adverse events. Conclusions: PTH-1-37 is rapidly absorbed after s.c. injection, has a short plasma elimination half-life, and does not accumulate during multiple dosing. Biological activity was demonstrated by rising serum calcium and decreasing endogenous PTH-1-84 in blood plasma. The study drugs were well tolerated and safe. Our investigation presents data that PTH-1-37 is an excellent drug candidate for intervening with syndromes of dysregulation of calcium metabolism.
Spinal Cord Infarction in Clinical Neurology: A Review of Characteristics and Long-Term Prognosis in Comparison to Cerebral Infarction
Authors: Romi Fredrik , Naess Halvor
Published: August 2016

Spinal cord stroke is rare accounting for 0.3-1% of all strokes and is classified into upper (cervical) and lower (thoracolumbar) strokes. Patients present with severe deficits but later often show good functional improvement. On admission, younger age, male gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and elevated blood glucose indicate more severe spinal cord strokes. Treatment of these risk factors is essential in the acute phase. Biphasic spinal cord strokes are seen in one-fifth of the patients. These present with acute or transient sensory spinal cord deficits often preceded by radiating pain between the shoulders, and should be considered and treated as imminent spinal cord strokes. Spinal cord infarction patients are younger and more often women compared to cerebral infarction patients. Traditional cerebrovascular risk factors are less relevant in spinal cord infarction. Spinal cord infarction patients are more likely to be discharged home and show better improvement after initial treatment compared to cerebral infarction patients. On long-term follow-up, spinal cord infarction patients have lower mortality and higher emotional well-being scores than cerebral infarction patients. Despite more chronic pain, the frequency of re-employment is higher among spinal cord infarction patients compared to cerebral infarction patients who are more often afflicted with cognitive function deficits.
Comparison of Keyes Punch Biopsy Instrument with Cervical Punch Biopsy Forceps for Diagnosing Cervical Lesions
Authors: Tyagi Natasha , Suneja Amita , Mishra Kiran , Jain Sandhya , Vaid Neelam Bala , Guleria Kiran
Published: August 2016

Objective: To assess the feasibility and efficacy of Keyes punch biopsy instrument (KP) in diagnosing cervical lesions and compare it with cervical punch biopsy forceps (CP). Methods: 75 women having satisfactory colposcopy with abnormal transformation zone were included and paired colposcopic directed biopsies were taken using KP followed by CP from the same target area. Results: It was feasible in all cases to take cervical biopsy with KP after increasing its effective length. The volume of gross specimen obtained by KP was less than CP (0.076 ± 0.097 vs. 0.101 ± 0.156 cm3, p = 0.061), however on microscopic examination, mean length and mean depth of tissue in KP was greater than CP by 0.06 mm (p = 0.810) and 0.14 mm (p = 0.634) respectively. Exact agreement was found with the final surgical specimen in 42% of cases in both the biopsy forceps. Conclusion: KP is almost at par with CP for diagnosing preinvasive cervical lesions and is a useful adjunct to the existing armamentarium of biopsy forceps.
Medication Intervention for Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Transitioning from Hospital to Home: Study Design and Baseline Characteristics
Authors: Alicic Radica Z. , Short Robert A. , Corbett Cynthia L. , Neumiller Joshua J. , Gates Brian J. , Daratha Kenn B. , Barbosa-Leiker Celestina , McPherson Sterling , Chaytor Naomi S. , Dieter Brad P. , Setter Stephen M. , Tuttle Katherine R.
Published: August 2016

Background: The hospital readmission rate in the population with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is high and strategies to reduce this risk are urgently needed. Methods: The CKD-Medication Intervention Trial (CKD-MIT; www.clinicaltrials.gov; NCTO1459770) is a single-blind (investigators), randomized, clinical trial conducted at Providence Health Care in Spokane, Washington. Study participants are hospitalized patients with CKD stages 3-5 (not treated with kidney replacement therapy) and acute illness. The study intervention is a pharmacist-led, home-based, medication management intervention delivered within 7 days after hospital discharge. The primary outcome is a composite of hospital readmissions and visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for 90 days following hospital discharge. Secondary outcomes are achievements of guideline-based targets for CKD risk factors and complications. Results: Enrollment began in February 2012 and ended in May 2015. At baseline, the age of participants was 69 ± 11 years (mean ± SD), 50% (77 of 155) were women, 83% (117 of 141) had hypertension and 56% (79 of 141) had diabetes. At baseline, the estimated glomerular filtration rate was 41 ± 14 ml/min/1.73 m2 and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio was 43 mg/g (interquartile range 8-528 mg/g). The most frequent diagnosis category for the index hospital admission was cardiovascular diseases at 34% (53 of 155), but the most common single diagnosis for admission was community-acquired acute kidney injury at 10% (16 of 155). Conclusion: Participants in CKD-MIT are typical of acutely ill hospitalized patients with CKD. A medication management intervention after hospital discharge is under study to reduce post-hospitalization acute care utilization and to improve CKD management.
Differences in Patient Characteristics among Men Choosing Open or Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy in Contemporary Practice - Analysis of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Database
Authors: Schiffmann Jonas , Larcher Alessandro , Sun Maxine , Tian Zhe , Berdugo Jérémie , Leva Ion , Widmer Hugues , Lattouf Jean-Baptiste , Zorn Kevin , Haese Alexander , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Saad Fred , Montorsi Francesco , Graefen Markus , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: August 2016

Objective: To examine characteristics of robot-assisted (RARP) and open radical prostatectomy (ORP) patients. Patients and Methods: We relied on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare-linked database and focused on prostate cancer patients between 2008 and 2009. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, we predicted RARP. Results: Of 5,915 patients, 3,476 (58.8%) underwent RARP and 2,439 (41.2%) ORP. Patients within intermediate (OR 1.4, p = 0.01) or highest (OR 1.5, p = 0.02) education strata and those treated by surgeons with a high volume (OR 2.2, p < 0.001) were more likely to undergo RARP. Conversely, those residing in rural areas (OR 0.7, p = 0.005) and those with clinical stage T2 or higher (OR 0.7, p = 0.006) were less likely to undergo RARP. Additionally, patients from the Southwest were less likely to undergo RARP (OR 0.4, p < 0.001), but those from the Northern Plains were more likely to undergo RARP (OR 1.4, p = 0.02) than their counterparts from the East. Finally, RARP patients were neither younger nor healthier than ORP patients. Conclusions: Several patient characteristics such as education, region of residence and population density affect the likelihood of RARP vs. ORP treatment. Similarly, clinical stage and surgeon characteristics also affect the assignment to one or other treatment modality.
Nd:YAG Laser Treatment for Extranasal Telangiectasias: A Retrospective Analysis of 38 Patients with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia and Review of the Literature
Authors: Papaspyrou Giorgos , Schick Bernhard , Al Kadah Basel
Published: August 2016

Background/Aims: Extranasal telangiectasias are common amongst hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) patients. Telangiectasias can be found at sites like the external nose, lips, oral cavity and fingers. Although not life threatening, they can be annoying for patients and lead to bleeding in some cases, necessitating treatment. Methods: The data of 38 HHT patients treated for extranasal telangiectasias during a period of 10 years by means of Nd:YAG laser were retrospectively analyzed. Results: The telangiectasias treated affected predominantly the tongue, facial skin and lips. During a minimum follow-up of 3 years, only 7 patients required a revision of surgery. Conclusion: This study shows that Nd:YAG laser constitutes a fast, safe and efficient therapeutic modality for the treatment of extranasal telangiectasias.
Alopecia Areata as a Manifestation of Systemic Lymphoma: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Ramot Yuval , Gural Alexander , Zlotogorski Abraham
Published: August 2016

Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune disorder leading to hair loss. It usually affects individuals under the age of 40, and first appearance in older subjects is considered uncommon. Here, we report 2 cases of rapidly progressing alopecia areata, which appeared for the first time in adults. Patient 1 had alopecia universalis, which preceded the identification of hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma, a rare form of lymphoma. Patient 2 suffered from the ophiasis type of alopecia areata, presenting for the first time following chemotherapy for non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma. These 2 cases highlight the need to screen for malignancies in patients who present with rapidly progressing alopecia areata for the first time after the age of 40.
Typification of thirty-two names given by Alexis Jordan in the genus Biscutella (Brassicaceae)
Authors: THIEBAUT MELANIE , TISON JEAN-MARC
Published: August 2016

This work is a stage of a larger and essential process of typification of A. Jordan’s micro-species. In 1864, this great botanist described 37 species of Biscutella L. (Brassicaceae) in his “Diagnoses d’espèces nouvelles ou méconnues”. Our typification work consisted in searching sheets of Biscutella in Jordan’s herbarium, in LY and in other European herbaria. Finally, seven previously unknown holotypes, 17 lectotypes and eight neotypes have been identified or cited. Furthermore, 14 isolectotypes and eight syntypes have also been mentioned. The only untypified “jordanonˮ is B. collina Jord. of which no reliable specimen could be found.
Carex panduranganii, a new name for Carex nilagirica Viji, Pandur., Deepu & G.C. Tucker (Cyperaceae)
Authors: KALIDASS CHINNAMADASAMY
Published: August 2016

Carex Linnaeus (1753: 972) is one of the largest genera of angiosperms with more than 2000 species in the world (Reznicek 1990, Goetghebeur 1998). In India, Karthikeyan et al. (1989) and Prasad & Singh (2002) reported 160 species, 1 subspecies and 29 varieties. Recently, Viji et al. (2016) recorded a new species from Tamil Nadu which is new to the Indian flora, namely Carex nilagirica Viji, Pandur., Deepu & G.C. Tucker (2016: 1). However, there is another Carex nilagirica published by Hochst ex Steudel (1855: 207), which is currently treated as a heterotypic synonym of Carex filicina Nees (1834: 123). As a result, and under the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi and plants (McNeill et al. 2012), the name Carex nilagirica Viji, Pandur., Deepu & G.C. Tucker is illegitimate, as it is a later homonym of Carex nilagirica Hochst ex. Steud. (Art. 53.1). Therefore, a new name Carex panduranganii is proposed as a replacement name for Carex nilagirica Viji, Pandur., Deepu & G.C. Tucker.
A new species of Smilax (Smilacaceae) from southern islands of Kagoshima prefecture, Japan
Authors: QI ZHE-CHEN , SHEN CHAO , HAN YU-WEI , WANG RUI-HONG , LIU RUI-ZHENG , NAIKI AKIYO , LI PAN
Published: August 2016

Smilax Linnaeus (1753: 1028) is the only genus of Smilacaceae, comprising ca. 210 species, which are lianas, shrubs, and herbs (Cameron & Fu, 2006; Qi et al. 2013a). The genus shows a near-cosmopolitan distribution (Qi et al. 2013a). In the large genus, Smilax sect. Heterosmilax (Kunth 1850: 270) Judd (1998: 158), formerly treated as an independent genus Heterosmilax Kunth in Smilacaceae, has 12 species and is distributed only in Asian and Malesian regions (Judd 1998, Qi et al. 2013b). All species of the section have slender stem without pricks, cordate leaves, and tendrils in bronze color. Especially, flowers with connate perigone are one of the most important characteristics to distinguish the section from the other sections (Koyama 1984, Qi et al. 2013a).
Quantifying Drop Size Distribution Variability over Areas: Some Implications for Ground Validation Experiments
Authors: Jameson A. R.
Published: August 2016

In previous work it was found that over a small network of disdrometers, the variability of probability size distributions (PSDs) expressed using the relative dispersion (RD; the ratio of the standard deviation to the mean) increased with the expansion of the network size. The explanation is that the network acts to integrate the Fourier transform of the spatial correlation function from smallest wavelengths to those comparable to the network size . Consequently, as increases, so do the variances at the different drop sizes. Thus, RD and PSD variability grow as increases. The limits to this growth, however, were not determined quantitatively. This finding is given fuller theoretical quantitative meaning over much larger dimensions by explicitly deriving the variance contributions at all the different drop sizes as well as for a variety of moments of the PSD by using spatial radial correlation functions estimated from temporal correlations. This is justifiable when the time for each observation is short. One example is provided. The relative dispersion of the PSD is dominated by fluctuations in the occurrences of the larger drops. The RDs of the raw moments are only a few percent of the PSD. Thus, approaches attempting to estimate radial correlation functions using, say, radar measurements of moments are of limited utility, a usefulness further compromised by the distortion of the correlation function by filtering over the beam dimension. These findings present a challenge for efforts to validate remote sensing measurements by ground truth experiments using networks.