bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Prey-Predator Three Species Fishery Model with Harvesting Including Prey Refuge and Migration
Authors: Roy Sankar Kumar , Roy Banani
Published: March 2016

In this article, a prey-predator system with Holling type II functional response for the predator population including prey refuge region has been analyzed. Also a harvesting effort has been considered for the predator population. The density-dependent mortality rate for the prey, predator and super predator has been considered. The equilibria of the proposed system have been determined. Local and global stabilities for the system have been discussed. We have used the analytic approach to derive the global asymptotic stabilities of the system. The maximal predator per capita consumption rate has been considered as a bifurcation parameter to evaluate Hopf bifurcation in the neighborhood of interior equilibrium point. Also, we have used fishing effort to harvest predator population of the system as a control to develop a dynamic framework to investigate the optimal utilization of the resource, sustainability properties of the stock and the resource rent is earned from the resource. Finally, we have presented some numerical simulations to verify the analytic results and the system has been analyzed through graphical illustrations.
Analysis of Response Surface Model Parameters with Bayesian Approach and Fuzzy Approach
Authors: Türkşen Özlem
Published: March 2016

Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is a group of mathematical and statistical methods used for exploring the optimum operating conditions through statistical design of experiments. Obtaining the suitable analytical model between input variables and one or more responses is the main stage in RSM studies. When the response has replications, these replicated values may cause error. The proper modeling approach should be preferred according to the source of error, which is randomness or measurement error. In this study, Bayesian approach and fuzzy approach are used to estimate the model parameters in which the error becomes randomness and measurement error, respectively. The novelty of this study is analysis of response surface model parameters, which are obtained by using Bayesian approach and fuzzy approach, through interval analysis. The interpretation of model parameters and the comparison of modeling approaches are evaluated by interval arithmetic metrics. The suggested approaches are applied on replicated response measured two data sets and the results are discussed.
On the Frobenius spectrum of a finite group
Authors: Shi Jiangtao , Meng Wei , Zhang Cui
Published: March 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite group and [Formula: see text] any divisor of [Formula: see text], the order of [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text], Frobenius’ theorem states that [Formula: see text] for some positive integer [Formula: see text]. We call [Formula: see text] a Frobenius quotient of [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be the set of all Frobenius quotients of [Formula: see text], we call [Formula: see text] the Frobenius spectrum of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we give a complete classification of finite groups [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] being the smallest prime divisor of [Formula: see text]. Moreover, let [Formula: see text] be a finite group of even order, [Formula: see text] the set of all Frobenius quotients of [Formula: see text] for even divisors of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] the maximum Frobenius quotient in [Formula: see text], we prove that [Formula: see text] is always solvable if [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is not a composition factor of [Formula: see text].
Convergence and consistency of ERM algorithm with uniformly ergodic Markov chain samples
Authors: Mo Xiaomei , Xu Jie
Published: March 2016

This paper studies the convergence rate and consistency of Empirical Risk Minimization algorithm, where the samples need not be independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) but can come from uniformly ergodic Markov chain (u.e.M.c.). We firstly establish the generalization bounds of Empirical Risk Minimization algorithm with u.e.M.c. samples. Then we deduce that the Empirical Risk Minimization algorithm on the base of u.e.M.c. samples is consistent and owns a fast convergence rate.
Multi-layer composite mechanical modeling for the inhomogeneous biofilm mechanical behavior
Authors: Wang Xiaoling , Han Jingshi , Li Kui , Wang Guoqing , Hao Mudong
Published: March 2016

Experiments showed that bacterial biofilms are heterogeneous, for example, the density, the diffusion coefficient, and mechanical properties of the biofilm are different along the biofilm thickness. In this paper, we establish a multi-layer composite model to describe the biofilm mechanical inhomogeneity based on unified multiple-component cellular automaton (UMCCA) model. By using our model, we develop finite element simulation procedure for biofilm tension experiment. The failure limit and biofilm extension displacement obtained from our model agree well with experimental measurements. This method provides an alternative theory to study the mechanical inhomogeneity in biological materials.
Surface acoustic wave devices fabricated on epitaxial AlN film
Authors: Gao Junning , Hao Zhibiao , Niu Lang , Wang Lai , Sun Changzheng , Xiong Bin , Han Yanjun , Wang Jian , Li Hongtao , Luo Yi , Li Guoqiang
Published: March 2016

This paper reports surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices fabricated on AlN epitaxial film grown on sapphire, aiming to avoid the detrimental polarization axis inconsistency and refrained crystalline quality of the normally used polycrystalline AlN films. Devices with center frequency of 357 MHz and 714 MHz have been fabricated. The stop band rejection ratio of the as-obtained device reaches 24.5 dB and the pass band ripple is profoundly smaller compared to most of the reported AlN SAW devices with the similar configuration. Judging from the rather high edge dislocation level of the film used in this study, the properties of the SAW devices have great potential to be improved by further improving the crystalline quality of the film. It is then concluded that the AlN epitaxial film is favorable for high quality SAW devices to meet the high frequency and low power consumption challenges facing the signal processing components.
Preparation and low-frequency microwave-absorbing properties of MWCNTs/Co–Ni/Fe3O4 hybrid material
Authors: Lu Shao-Wei , Yuan Chao-Jun , Jia Cai-Xia , Ma Ke-Ming , Wang Xiao-Qiang
Published: March 2016

MWCNTs/Co–Ni/Fe3O4 hybrid material has been successfully prepared by electroless plating and coprecipitation method, which is applied to the low-frequency microwave absorption. Their surface morphology, structure, magnetism and electromagnetic properties in the low-frequency range of 1–4[Formula: see text]GHz were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and vector network analyzer. Results indicated that magnetic Co–Ni/Fe3O4 particles were attached on the surface of multi-walled carbon nanotubes successfully. The saturation magnetization of MWCNTs/Co–Ni/Fe3O4 hybrid materials was 68.6[Formula: see text]emu/g and the coercivity is 17.9 Oe. The electromagnetic and microwave absorbing properties analysis in the low-frequency range of 1–4[Formula: see text]GHz indicated that the hybrid material exhibited excellent magnetic loss and the maximum reflection loss could reach [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]dB at 1.51GHz with 1.05[Formula: see text]GHz bandwidth below [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]dB.
How do Corporate Governance Decisions Affect Bondholders?
Authors: Li Hong , Wang Yuan
Published: March 2016

Existing studies have documented a negative relationship between the GIM corporate governance index (which contains anti-takeover provisions) and the corporate cost of debt, which implies that fewer anti-takeover provisions may lead to a larger shareholder expropriation of bondholder wealth. That is, strong corporate governance hurts bondholders (asset substitution hypothesis). However, another stream of research asserts that governance mechanisms may benefit bondholders by paring down agency costs and decreasing information asymmetry between the firm and the lenders (monitoring hypothesis). We reexamine this issue by considering the self-selection effect. We find that both hypotheses can be true, and that firms consider the reduction of cost of debt when self-selecting their governance, and the cost of debt would have been much higher had the alternative governance decision been made.
Estradiol modulates myosin regulatory light chain phosphorylation and contractility in skeletal muscle of female mice
Authors: Lai Shaojuan , Collins Brittany C. , Colson Brett A. , Kararigas Georgios , Lowe Dawn A.
Published: March 2016

Impairment of skeletal muscle function has been associated with changes in ovarian hormones, especially estradiol. To elucidate mechanisms of estradiol on skeletal muscle strength, the hormone's effects on phosphorylation of the myosin regulatory light chain (pRLC) and muscle contractility were investigated, hypothesizing an estradiol-specific beneficial impact. In a skeletal muscle cell line, C2C12, pRLC was increased by 17β-estradiol (E2) in a concentration-dependent manner. In skeletal muscles of C57BL/6 mice that were E2deficient via ovariectomy (OVX), pRLC was lower than that from ovary-intact, sham-operated mice (Sham). The reduced pRLC in OVX muscle was reversed by in vivo E2treatment. Posttetanic potentiation (PTP) of muscle from OVX mice was low compared with that from Sham mice, and this decrement was reversed by acute E2treatment, demonstrating physiological consequence. Western blot of those muscles revealed that low PTP corresponded with low pRLC and higher PTP with greater pRLC. We aimed to elucidate signaling pathways affecting E2-mediated pRLC using a kinase inhibitor library and C2C12cells as well as a specific myosin light chain kinase inhibitor in muscles. PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and CamKII were identified as candidate kinases sensitive to E2in terms of phosphorylating RLC. Applying siRNA strategy in C2C12cells, pRLC triggered by E2was found to be mediated by estrogen receptor-β and the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor. Together, these results provide evidence that E2modulates myosin pRLC in skeletal muscle and is one mechanism by which this hormone can affect muscle contractility in females.
Tetrahydrobiopterin ameliorates the exaggerated exercise pressor response in patients with chronic kidney disease: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lin Ann M. , Liao Peizhou , Millson Erin C. , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Park Jeanie
Published: March 2016

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients have an exaggerated increase in blood pressure (BP) during rhythmic handgrip exercise (RHG 20%) and static handgrip exercise (SHG 30%). Nitric oxide levels increase during exercise and help prevent excessive hypertension by both increasing vasodilation and reducing sympathetic nerve activity (SNA). Therefore, we hypothesized that tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), an essential cofactor for nitric oxide synthase, would ameliorate the exaggerated exercise pressor response in CKD patients. In a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, we tested the effects of 12 wk of sapropterin dihydrochloride (6 R-BH4; n = 18) versus placebo ( n = 14) treatement on BP and muscle SNA (MSNA) responses during RHG 20% and SHG 30% in CKD patients. The 6 R-BH4-treated group had a significantly lower systolic BP (+6 ± 1 vs. +13 ± 2 mmHg, P = 0.002) and mean arterial pressure response (+5 ± 1 vs. +10 ± 2 mmHg, P = 0.020) during RHG 20% and a significantly lower systolic BP response (+19 ± 3 vs. +28 ± 3 mmHg, P = 0.043) during SHG 30%. Under baseline conditions, there was no significant difference in MSNA responses between the groups; however, when the BP response during exercise was equalized between the groups using nitroprusside, the 6 R-BH4-treated group had a significantly lower MSNA response during RHG 20% (6R-BH4 vs. placebo, +12 ± 1 vs. +21 ± 2 bursts/min, P = 0.004) but not during SHG 30%. These findings suggest that 6 R-BH4 ameliorates the augmented BP response during RHG 20% and SHG 30% in CKD patients. A reduction in reflex activation of SNA may contribute to the decreased exercise pressor response during RHG 20% but not during SHG 30% in CKD patients.
A common neural element receiving rhythmic arm and leg activity as assessed by reflex modulation in arm muscles
Authors: Sasada Syusaku , Tazoe Toshiki , Nakajima Tsuyoshi , Futatsubashi Genki , Ohtsuka Hiroyuki , Suzuki Shinya , Zehr E. Paul , Komiyama Tomoyoshi
Published: March 2016

Neural interactions between regulatory systems for rhythmic arm and leg movements are an intriguing issue in locomotor neuroscience. Amplitudes of early latency cutaneous reflexes (ELCRs) in stationary arm muscles are modulated during rhythmic leg or arm cycling but not during limb positioning or voluntary contraction. This suggests that interneurons mediating ELCRs to arm muscles integrate outputs from neural systems controlling rhythmic limb movements. Alternatively, outputs could be integrated at the motoneuron and/or supraspinal levels. We examined whether a separate effect on the ELCR pathways and cortico-motoneuronal excitability during arm and leg cycling is integrated by neural elements common to the lumbo-sacral and cervical spinal cord. The subjects performed bilateral leg cycling (LEG), contralateral arm cycling (ARM), and simultaneous contralateral arm and bilateral leg cycling (A&L), while ELCRs in the wrist flexor and shoulder flexor muscles were evoked by superficial radial (SR) nerve stimulation. ELCR amplitudes were facilitated by cycling tasks and were larger during A&L than during ARM and LEG. A low stimulus intensity during ARM or LEG generated a larger ELCR during A&L than the sum of ELCRs during ARM and LEG. We confirmed this nonlinear increase in single motor unit firing probability following SR nerve stimulation during A&L. Furthermore, motor-evoked potentials following transcranial magnetic and electrical stimulation did not show nonlinear potentiation during A&L. These findings suggest the existence of a common neural element of the ELCR reflex pathway that is active only during rhythmic arm and leg movement and receives convergent input from contralateral arms and legs.
Anodisation of Aluminium Alloys by Micro-Capillary Technique as a Tool for Reliable, Cost-Efficient, and Quick Process Parameter Determination
Authors: Nickel Daniela , Dietrich Dagmar , Morgenstern Roy , Scharf Ingolf , Podlesak Harry , Lampke Thomas
Published: March 2016

Anodisation is essential for improving surface properties of aluminium alloys and composites regarding wear and corrosion behaviour. Optimisation of the anodising process depends on microstructural constituents contained in aluminium alloys and represents a key task, consisting of the control of process parameters and electrolyte formulation. We applied the micro-capillary technique known from corrosion studies and modified it to form anodic aluminium oxide films on high-strength aluminium alloys in comparison to pure aluminium in sulphuric acid. A glass capillary with an opening of 800 μm in diameter was utilized. Corresponding electrochemical measurements during potentiodynamic and potentiostatic anodisation revealed anodic current responses similar to conventional anodisation. The measurement of film thickness was adapted to the thin anodised spots using ellipsometry and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. Cross sections prepared by focused ion beam milling confirm the thickness results and show the behaviour of intermetallic phases depending on the anodising potential. Consequently, micro-capillary anodising proved to be an effective tool for developing appropriate anodisation conditions for aluminium alloys and composites because it allows quick variation of electrolyte composition by applying low electrolyte volumes and rapid film formation due to short process durations at small areas and more flexible variation of process parameters due to the used set-up.
Influence of Textile Structure and Silica Based Finishing on Thermal Insulation Properties of Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Rosace G. , Guido E. , Colleoni C. , Barigozzi G.
Published: March 2016

The aim of this work is to investigate the influence of weave structures and silica coatings obtained via sol-gel process on the thermal insulation properties of cotton samples. For this reason three main weave structures (plain, satin, and piqué) of cotton fabric were selected with different yarn count, threads per cm, and mass per square meter values. Thereafter, only for the plain weave, the samples were padded using silica sol formed by hydrolysis and subsequent condensation of 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane under acidic conditions. The silanized plain weave samples were characterized by TGA and FT-IR techniques. The thermal properties were measured with a home-made apparatus in order to calculate thermal conductivity, resistance, and absorption of all the treated fabric samples. The relationship between the thermal insulation properties of the plain weave fabrics and the concentration of sol solutions has been investigated. Fabrics weave and density were found to strongly influence the thermal properties: piqué always shows the lowest values and satin shows the highest values while plain weave lies in between. The thermal properties of treated high-density cotton plain weave fabric were proved to be strongly influenced by finishing agent concentration.
Structural, Vibrational, and Electronic Properties of the Glucoalkaloid Strictosidine: A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Costa Renyer Alves , Pinheiro Maria Lucia Belem , Oliveira Kelson Mota Teixeira de , Barison Andersson , Salomé Kahlil Schwanka , Iank Júlio Rodolfo , da Silva Noam Gadelha , Cabral Tiara Souza , Costa Emmanoel Vilaça
Published: March 2016

A detailed structural analysis and spectral behavior of the glucoalkaloid strictosidine, a precursor of all monoterpene indole alkaloids, are discussed. The experimental NMR, FTIR, and UV results were compared to the theoretical DFT spectra calculated by Becke using the three-parameter Lee-Yang-Parr (B3LYP) function with 6-31G(d) and 6-311++G(2d,p) basis sets. The theoretical geometry optimization data were compared with the X-ray data for precursors and similar structures in the associated literature. The similarity between the theoretical and experimental coupling constants values made it possible to affirm the values of dihedral angles and their configuration, reinforcing findings from previous stereochemical studies. Theoretical UV analysis agreed well with the measured experimental data, with bands assigned. Calculated HOMO/LUMO gaps show low excitation energy for strictosidine, justifying its stability and reaction kinetics. The molecular electrostatic potential map shows opposite potentials regions that form hydrogen bonds that stabilize the dimeric form, which were confirmed by excellent agreement of the dimeric form theoretical wavenumbers with the experimental IR spectrum. ESI-MS/MS data revealed patterns for the fragmentation of the protonated strictosidine molecule outlined by an NBO study.
An ELECTRE Approach for Multicriteria Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Trapezoidal Fuzzy Group Decision Making Problems
Authors: Veeramachaneni Sireesha , Kandikonda Himabindu
Published: March 2016

The Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) is acknowledged as the most useful branch of decision making. It provides an effective framework for comparison based on the evaluation of multiple conflicting criteria. In this paper, a method is proposed to work out multiple attribute group decision making (MAGDM) problems with interval-valued intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy numbers (IVITFNs) using Elimination and Choice Translation Reality (ELECTRE) method. A new ranking function based on value and ambiguity is introduced to compare the IVITFNs, which overcomes the limitations of existing methods. An illustrative numerical example is solved to verify the efficiency of the proposed method to select the better alternative.
Role of MMP-2 (-1306 C/T) Polymorphism in Pituitary Adenoma
Authors: Glebauskiene Brigita , Liutkeviciene Rasa , Vilkeviciute Alvita , Kriauciuniene Loresa , Bernotas Giedrimantas , Tamasauskas Arimantas , Zaliuniene Dalia
Published: March 2016

Purpose. To determine if the frequency of the genotype ofMMP-2 (-1306 C/T) Rs243865has an influence on the development of pituitary adenoma (PA).Methods. The study enrolledn=84patients with PA and a random sample of the populationn=318(reference group). The genotyping test ofMMP-2 (-1306 C/T)was carried out using the real-time polymerase chain reaction method.Results. Analysis ofMMP-2 (-1306 C/T)gene polymorphism has not revealed any differences in the genotype (C/C, C/T,andT/T) distribution between the PA patients and the reference group (as follows: 50%, 44%, and 6% versus 59.75%, 33.96%, and 6.29%).MMP-2 (-1306) C/Cgenotype was rarely observed in noninvasive PA compared to healthy controls: 35.1% versus 59.75%;p=0.0049, as well C/C genotype being more frequently detected in nonrecurrence PA compared to healthy controls: 46.5% versus 59.75%;p=0.0468.MMP-2 (-1306) C/Tgenotype was more frequently present in PA females compared to healthy controls females: 49.1% versus 33.66%;p=0.041.Conclusion. Patients with noninvasive and nonrecurrence pituitary adenoma were the carriers of the C/C genotype significantly more frequently than their control counterparts and the C/T genotype in females was more frequent.
Dream Recall Frequencies and Dream Content in Wilson’s Disease with and without REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder: A Neurooneirologic Study
Authors: Tribl Gotthard G. , Trindade Mateus C. , Schredl Michael , Pires Joana , Reinhard Iris , Bittencourt Thais , Lorenzi-Filho Geraldo , Alves Rosana Cardoso , de Andrade Daniel Ciampi , Fonoff Erich T. , Bor-Seng-Shu Edson , Machado Alexandre A. , Teixeira Manoel J. , Barbosa Egberto R.
Published: March 2016

Objective. Violent dream content and its acting out during rapid eye movement sleep are considered distinctive for rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder (RBD). This study reports first quantitative data on dreaming in a cohort of patients with treated Wilson’s disease (WD) and in patients with WD with RBD.Methods. Retrospective questionnaires on different dimensions of dreaming and a prospective two-week home dream diary with self-rating of emotions and blinded, categorical rating of content by an external judge.Results. WD patients showed a significantly lower dream word count and very few other differences in dream characteristics compared to age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Compared to WD patients without RBD, patients with WD and RBD reported significantly higher nightmare frequencies and more dreams with violent or aggressive content retrospectively; their prospectively collected dream reports contained significantly more negative emotions and aggression.Conclusions. The reduction in dream length might reflect specific cognitive deficits in WD. The lack of differences regarding dream content might be explained by the established successful WD treatment. RBD in WD had a strong impact on dreaming. In accordance with the current definition of RBD, violent, aggressive dream content seems to be a characteristic of RBD also in WD.
Evaluation of Plaid Models in Biclustering of Gene Expression Data
Authors: Alavi Majd Hamid , Shahsavari Soodeh , Baghestani Ahmad Reza , Tabatabaei Seyyed Mohammad , Khadem Bashi Naghme , Rezaei Tavirani Mostafa , Hamidpour Mohsen
Published: March 2016

Background.Biclustering algorithms for the analysis of high-dimensional gene expression data were proposed. Among them, the plaid model is arguably one of the most flexible biclustering models up to now.Objective.The main goal of this study is to provide an evaluation of plaid models. To that end, we will investigate this model on both simulation data and real gene expression datasets.Methods.Two simulated matrices with different degrees of overlap and noise are generated and then the intrinsic structure of these data is compared with biclusters result. Also, we have searched biologically significant discovered biclusters by GO analysis.Results.When there is no noise the algorithm almost discovered all of the biclusters but when there is moderate noise in the dataset, this algorithm cannot perform very well in finding overlapping biclusters and if noise is big, the result of biclustering is not reliable.Conclusion.The plaid model needs to be modified because when there is a moderate or big noise in the data, it cannot find good biclusters. This is a statistical model and is a quite flexible one. In summary, in order to reduce the errors, model can be manipulated and distribution of error can be changed.
Changes in Lipid Profiles of HIV+Adults over Nine Months at a Harare HIV Clinic: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Zhou Danai Tavonga , Nehumba Doreen , Oktedalen Olav , Marange Princess , Kodogo Vitaris , Gomo Zvenyika Alfred , Esterhuizen Tonya M. , Stray-Pedersen Babill
Published: March 2016

HIV infection, together with ART, is associated with changes in biochemical, metabolic parameters and lipid profiles. The aim of this study was to compare changes in lipid profiles among HIV positive outpatients over nine months. 171 patients were investigated, 79% were ART experienced, and 82% of ART experienced patients were on NVP/EFV first line at baseline, but some patients changed ART groups over follow-up and classification was based on intent to treat. More than 60% ART naïve and ART experienced patients had some form of dyslipidemia either at baseline or at follow-up, but mean lipid values for the two groups were within normal limits. At baseline and follow-up, mean levels of TC and HDL were slightly higher in the ART experienced group. Interestingly, there was higher increase in HDL over time in the ART negative group compared to the ART positive group. There was a decrease in TC/HDL ratio in both groups over time, suggesting a reduction in calculated risk of CHD over time. HIV positive patients frequently show various forms of dyslipidemia, but there are no changes in average atherogenic lipid levels and results suggest reduced risk of CHD, mainly due to increases in HDL, after nine months of observation time.
Coefficients Estimates of the Class of Biunivalent Functions
Authors: Aljouiee Abdullah , Goswami Pranay
Published: March 2016

Applying the Faber polynomial expansions, we obtain the general coefficient bounds for the class of biunivalent functions with bounded boundary rotations.
Circulating Memory T Follicular Helper Cells in Patients with Neuromyelitis Optica/Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Fan Xueli , Jiang Yanfang , Han Jinming , Liu Jingyao , Wei Yafen , Jiang Xinmei , Jin Tao
Published: March 2016

Objective. This study aimed to examine the potential role of memory T follicular helper (Tfh) cells in patients with neuromyelitis optica/neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMO/NMOSD).Methods. The percentages of different subsets of circulating memory Tfh cells in 25 NMO/NMOSD patients before and after treatment as well as in 17 healthy controls were examined by flow cytometry. The levels of IL-21 and AQP4 Ab in plasma and CSF were measured by ELISA.Results. The percentages and numbers of circulating memory Tfh cells, ICOS+, CCR7−, CCR7−ICOS+, CCR7+, CCR7+ICOS+memory Tfh cells, and the levels of IL-21 in plasma and CSF were significantly increased in NMO/NMOSD patients. The percentages of CCR7−and CCR7−ICOS+memory Tfh cells were positively correlated with ARR, plasma IL-21, and AQP4 Ab levels. The percentages of CCR7+and CCR7+ICOS+memory Tfh cells were positively correlated with CSF white blood cell counts, proteins, and IL-21 levels. Treatment with corticosteroids significantly reduced the numbers of CCR7−ICOS+and CCR7+ICOS+memory Tfh cells as well as plasma IL-21 levels in patients with partial remission.Conclusions. Our findings indicate that circulating memory Tfh cells may participate in the relapse and development of NMO/NMOSD and may serve as a new therapeutic target.
A Comparison of Local Search Methods for the Multicriteria Police Districting Problem on Graph
Authors: Liberatore F. , Camacho-Collados M.
Published: March 2016

In the current economic climate, law enforcement agencies are facing resource shortages. The effective and efficient use of scarce resources is therefore of the utmost importance to provide a high standard public safety service. Optimization models specifically tailored to the necessity of police agencies can help to ameliorate their use. The Multicriteria Police Districting Problem (MC-PDP) on a graph concerns the definition of sound patrolling sectors in a police district. The objective of this problem is to partition a graph into convex and continuous subsets, while ensuring efficiency and workload balance among the subsets. The model was originally formulated in collaboration with the Spanish National Police Corps. We propose for its solution three local search algorithms: a Simple Hill Climbing, a Steepest Descent Hill Climbing, and a Tabu Search. To improve their diversification capabilities, all the algorithms implement a multistart procedure, initialized by randomized greedy solutions. The algorithms are empirically tested on a case study on the Central District of Madrid. Our experiments show that the solutions identified by the novel Tabu Search outperform the other algorithms. Finally, research guidelines for future developments on the MC-PDP are given.
Revelation of ZnS Nanoparticles Induces Follicular Atresia and Apoptosis in the Ovarian Preovulatory Follicles in the CatfishMystus tengara(Hamilton, 1822)
Authors: Chatterjee Nilanjana , Bhattacharjee Baibaswata
Published: March 2016

Important physicochemical characteristics of water like dissolved oxygen content, pH, and so forth were found to change in a dose dependent manner, showing a negative correlation with the nanoparticle concentration, when ZnS nanoparticle (NP) was exposed to water. This observation could be attributed to the enhanced photooxidation property associated with ZnS in its NP form. Under this situation, the catfishMystus tengarawas forced to live in hypoxia in its habitat. This condition was found to hamper the natural oogenesis process of the fish. Due to exposure at relatively lower concentration of ZnS NPs (250 μg/L), most of the maturing follicles ofM. tengarafailed to complete the process of vitellogenesis properly and underwent preovulatory atresia followed by oocytic apoptosis. For relatively higher concentration of ZnS nanoparticles (500 μg/L), the previtellogenic process continued with increasing number of apoptotic cells; however the vitellogenic process was found to be totally blocked. This unusual reproductive behaviour in femaleM. tengaracan be attributed to the decreased metabolism of the fishes under ZnS nanoparticle induced hypoxia.
Using the Integration of Discrete Event and Agent-Based Simulation to Enhance Outpatient Service Quality in an Orthopedic Department
Authors: Kittipittayakorn Cholada , Ying Kuo-Ching
Published: March 2016

Many hospitals are currently paying more attention to patient satisfaction since it is an important service quality index. Many Asian countries’ healthcare systems have a mixed-type registration, accepting both walk-in patients and scheduled patients. This complex registration system causes a long patient waiting time in outpatient clinics. Different approaches have been proposed to reduce the waiting time. This study uses the integration of discrete event simulation (DES) and agent-based simulation (ABS) to improve patient waiting time and is the first attempt to apply this approach to solve this key problem faced by orthopedic departments. From the data collected, patient behaviors are modeled and incorporated into a massive agent-based simulation. The proposed approach is an aid for analyzing and modifying orthopedic department processes, allows us to consider far more details, and provides more reliable results. After applying the proposed approach, the total waiting time of the orthopedic department fell from 1246.39 minutes to 847.21 minutes. Thus, using the correct simulation model significantly reduces patient waiting time in an orthopedic department.
A Rare Case of Bipolar Clavicle Fracture
Authors: Yalizis Matthew A. , Hoy Gregory A. , Ek Eugene T. H.
Published: March 2016

Segmental or bipolar fractures of the clavicle generally refer to a concomitant ipsilateral distal clavicle and midshaft clavicle fracture. These injuries are exceedingly rare and are generally secondary to higher energy injuries. We report a case of a 38-year-old male who sustained a left bipolar clavicle fracture after falling from a push bike while riding recreationally which unusually involved the medial and lateral ends of the clavicle and not the midshaft as previously reported in other patients. The patient’s exact fracture configuration was not immediately apparent highlighting the need for careful examination of the whole clavicle in order to not miss a bipolar fracture.
Burden and Depression among Caregivers of Visually Impaired Patients in a Canadian Population
Authors: Khan Zainab , Braich Puneet S. , Rahim Karim , Rayat Jaspreet S. , Xing Lin , Iqbal Munir , Mohamed Karim , Sharma Sanjay , Almeida David
Published: March 2016

Purpose/Background. This study reports the degree of burden and the proportion at risk for depression among individuals who provide care to visually impaired patients.Study Design. This is clinic-based, cross-sectional survey in a tertiary care hospital.Methods. Caregivers were considered unpaid family members for patients whose sole impairment was visual. Patients were stratified by vision in their better seeing eye into two groups: Group 1 had visual acuity between 6/18 and 6/60 and Group 2 were those who had 6/60 or worse. Burden was evaluated by the Burden Index of Caregivers and the prevalence of being at risk for depression was determined by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale.Results. 236 caregivers of 236 patients were included. Total mean BIC scores were higher in Group 2. Female caregivers, caregivers providing greater hours of care, and caregivers of patients who have not completed vision rehabilitation programs are at higher risk for depression.
Effect of Various Sugary Beverages on Salivary pH, Flow Rate, and Oral Clearance Rate amongst Adults
Authors: Hans Rinki , Thomas Susan , Garla Bharat , Dagli Rushabh J. , Hans Manoj Kumar
Published: March 2016

Introduction. Diet is a major aetiological factor for dental caries and enamel erosion. This study was undertaken with the aim of assessing the effect of selected locally available beverages on salivary pH, flow rate, and oral clearance rate amongst adults.Materials and Method. This clinical trial comprised 120 subjects. Test beverages undertaken were pepsi, fruit drink, coffee, and sweetened milk. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 17. Descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, and post hoc Tukey’s test were applied in the statistical tests.Results. It was found that salivary pH decreased for all the beverages immediately after consumption and the salivary flow rate increased after their consumption. The oral clearance rate of sweetened milk was found to be the least at 6.5 minutes and that of pepsi was found to be 13 minutes. However, the oral clearance rates of fruit drink and coffee were found to be equal at 15 minutes.Conclusion. Although it was found out that liquids cleared rapidly from the oral cavity, they had a significant cariogenic and erosive potential. Hence, it is always advised to minimise the consumption of beverages, especially amongst children and young adults to maintain a good oral health.
Corneal-Based Surgical Presbyopic Therapies and Their Application in Pseudophakic Patients
Authors: Paley Grace L. , Chuck Roy S. , Tsai Linda M.
Published: March 2016

Purpose. The purpose of this review is to provide a summary of laser refractive surgery and corneal inlay approaches to treat presbyopia in patients after cataract surgery.Summary. The presbyopic population is growing rapidly along with increasing demands for spectacle independence. This review will focus on the corneal-based surgical options to address presbyopia including various types of corneal intrastromal inlays and laser ablation techniques to generate either a multifocal cornea (“PresbyLASIK”) or monovision. The natural history of presbyopia develops prior to cataracts, and these presbyopic surgeries have been largely studied in phakic patients. Nevertheless, pseudophakic patients may also undergo these presbyopia-compensating procedures for enhanced quality of life. This review examines the published reports that apply these technologies to patients after cataract surgery and discusses unique considerations for this population.
Impulsivity, Sensation Seeking, and Risk-Taking Behaviors among HIV-Positive and HIV-Negative Heroin Dependent Persons
Authors: Paydary Koosha , Mahin Torabi Somayeh , SeyedAlinaghi SeyedAhmad , Noori Mehri , Noroozi Alireza , Ameri Sara , Ekhtiari Hamed
Published: March 2016

Objective.The aim of this study was to compare impulsivity and risky decision making among HIV-positive and negative heroin dependent persons.Methods.We compared different dimensions of impulsivity and risky decision making in two groups of 60 HIV-positive and 60 HIV-negative male heroin dependent persons. Each group was comprised of equal numbers of current (treatment seeker) and former (abstinent) heroin addicts. Data collection tools included Balloon Analogue Risk Task (BART), Iowa Gambling Task (IGT), Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS), and Zuckerman Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS).Results.In SSS, comprised of four subscales including thrill and adventure seeking (TAS), experience seeking (ES), disinhibition (DIS), and boredom susceptibility (BS), there was a borderline difference in DIS (P=0.08) as HIV-positive group scored higher than HIV-negative group. Also, ES and total score were significantly higher among HIV-positive patients. In BART, HIV-positive subjects scored higher in risk taking than HIV-negative subjects as reflected in higher Average Number of puffs in Successful Balloons (ANSB). In BIS, HIV-positive group scored significantly higher in cognitive impulsivity (CI) (P=0.03) and nonplanning impulsivity (NPI) (P=0.05) in comparison to HIV-negative group. Also, current heroin addicts scored significantly higher in NPI compared to former addict HIV-negative participants (P=0.015). IGT did not show any significant difference between groups.Conclusion.Higher levels of impulsivity and risk taking behaviors among HIV-positive heroin addicts will increase serious concerns regarding HIV transmission from this group to other opiate dependents and healthy people.
Production of a Self-Aligned Scaffold, Free of Exogenous Material, from Dermal Fibroblasts Using the Self-Assembly Technique
Authors: Chabaud Stéphane , Bolduc Stéphane
Published: March 2016

Many pathologies of skin, especially ageing and cancer, involve modifications in the matrix alignment. Such tissue reorganization could have impact on cell behaviour and/or more global biological processes. Tissue engineering provides accurate study model by mimicking the skin and it allows the construction of versatile tridimensional models using human cells. It also avoids the use of animals, which gave sometimes nontranslatable results. Among the various techniques existing, the self-assembly method allows production of a near native skin, free of exogenous material. After cultivating human dermal fibroblasts in the presence of ascorbate during two weeks, a reseeding of these cells takes place after elevation of the resulting stroma on a permeable ring and culture pursued for another two weeks. This protocol induces a clear realignment of matrix fibres and cells parallel to the horizon. The thickness of this stretched reconstructed tissue is reduced compared to the stroma produced by the standard technique. Cell count is also reduced. In conclusion, a new, easy, and inexpensive method to produce aligned tissue free of exogenous material could be used for fundamental research applications in dermatology.
SNP Microarray in FISH Negative Clinically Suspected 22q11.2 Microdeletion Syndrome
Authors: Halder Ashutosh , Jain Manish , Kalsi Amanpreet Kaur
Published: March 2016

The present study evaluated the role of SNP microarray in 101 cases of clinically suspected FISH negative (noninformative/normal) 22q11.2 microdeletion syndrome. SNP microarray was carried out using 300 K HumanCytoSNP-12 BeadChip array or CytoScan 750 K array. SNP microarray identified 8 cases of 22q11.2 microdeletions and/or microduplications in addition to cases of chromosomal abnormalities and other pathogenic/likely pathogenic CNVs. Clinically suspected specific deletions (22q11.2) were detectable in approximately 8% of cases by SNP microarray, mostly from FISH noninformative cases. This study also identified several LOH/AOH loci with known and well-defined UPD (uniparental disomy) disorders. In conclusion, this study suggests more strict clinical criteria for FISH analysis. However, if clinical criteria are few or doubtful, in particular newborn/neonate in intensive care, SNP microarray should be the first screening test to be ordered. FISH is ideal test for detecting mosaicism, screening family members, and prenatal diagnosis in proven families.
Covered Stents versus Uncovered Stents for Unresectable Malignant Biliary Strictures: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Ming-Yu , Lin Jia-Wei , Zhu He-Pan , Zhang Bin , Jiang Guang-Yi , Yan Pei-Jian , Cai Xiu-Jun
Published: March 2016

Aim. To summarize the covered or uncovered SEMS for treatment of unresectable malignant distal biliary obstruction, comparing the stent patency, patient survival, and incidence of adverse events between the two SEMSs.Methods. The meta-analysis search was performed independently by two of the authors, using MEDLINE, EMBASE, OVID, and Cochrane databases on all studies between 2010 and 2015. Pooled effect was calculated using either the fixed or the random effects model.Results. Statistics shows that there is no difference between SEMSs in the hazard ratio for patient survival (HR 1.04; 95% CI, 0.92–1.17;P=0.55) and stent patency (HR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.58 to 1.30,P=0.5). However, incidence of adverse events (OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.57 to 0.97,P=0.03) showed significant different results in the covered SEMS, with dysfunctions events (OR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.56 to 1.00,P=0.05) playing a more important role than complications (OR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.58 to 1.30,P=0.50).Conclusions. Covered SEMS group had lower incidence of adverse events. There is no significant difference in dysfunctions, but covered SEMS trends to be better, with no difference in stent patency, patient survival, and complications.
New Conjugates of Quinoxaline as Potent Antitubercular and Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Peraman Ramalingam , Kuppusamy Rajendran , Killi Sunil Kumar , Reddy Y. Padmanabha
Published: March 2016

Considering quinoxaline as a privileged structure for the design of potent intercalating agents, some new sugar conjugates of quinoxaline were synthesized and characterized by IR, 1HNMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectral data. In vitro testing for antitubercular and antimicrobial activities was performed against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv and some pathogenic bacteria. Results revealed that conjugate containing ribose moiety demonstrated the most promising activity against Mycobacteria and bacteria with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 0.65 and 2.07 μM, respectively. Other conjugates from xylose, glucose, and mannose were moderately active whilst disaccharides conjugates were found to be less active. In silico docking analysis of prototype compound revealed that ATP site of DNA gyrase B subunit could be a possible site for inhibitory action of these synthesized compounds.
Thyroid Hormones, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation
Authors: Mancini Antonio , Di Segni Chantal , Raimondo Sebastiano , Olivieri Giulio , Silvestrini Andrea , Meucci Elisabetta , Currò Diego
Published: March 2016

Inflammation and oxidative stress (OS) are closely related processes, as well exemplified in obesity and cardiovascular diseases. OS is also related to hormonal derangement in a reciprocal way. Among the various hormonal influences that operate on the antioxidant balance, thyroid hormones play particularly important roles, since both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism have been shown to be associated with OS in animals and humans. In this context, the nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS) that typically manifests as reduced conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3) in different acute and chronic systemic conditions is still a debated topic. The pathophysiological mechanisms of this syndrome are reviewed, together with the roles of deiodinases, the enzymes responsible for the conversion of T4to T3, in both physiological and pathological situations. The presence of OS indexes in NTIS supports the hypothesis that it represents a condition of hypothyroidism at the tissue level and not only an adaptive mechanism to diseases.
Tuberculous Panophthalmitis with Lymphadenitis and Central Nervous System Tuberculoma
Authors: Srichatrapimuk Sirawat , Wattanatranon Duangkamon , Sungkanuparph Somnuek
Published: March 2016

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that spreads globally. The ocular manifestations of TB are uncommon and diverse. TB panophthalmitis has been rarely reported. Here, we described a 38-year-old Thai man presenting with panophthalmitis of the right eye. Further investigation showed that he had concurrent TB lymphadenitis and central nervous system (CNS) tuberculoma, as well as HIV infection, with a CD4 cell count of 153 cells/mm3. Despite the initial response to antituberculous agents, the disease had subsequently progressed and enucleation was required. The pathological examination revealed acute suppurative granulomatous panophthalmitis with retinal detachment. Further staining demonstrated acid-fast bacilli in the tissue. Colonies ofMycobacterium tuberculosiswere obtained from tissue culture. He was treated with antiretroviral agents for HIV infection and 12 months of antituberculous agents. Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of TB in the differential diagnosis of endophthalmitis and panophthalmitis, especially in regions where TB is endemic.
Seismic Damage Analysis of Concrete Gravity Dam Based on Wavelet Transform
Authors: Sun Dunben , Ren Qingwen
Published: March 2016

The key to the dam damage assessment is analyzing the remaining seismic carrying capacity after an earthquake occurs. In this paper, taking Koyna concrete gravity dam as the object of study, the dynamic response and damage distribution of the dam are obtained based on the concrete damage plastic constitutive model. By using time-frequency localization performance of wavelet transform, the distribution characteristics of wavelet energy for gravity dam dynamic response signal are revealed under the action of different amplitude earthquakes. It is concluded by numerical study that the wavelet energy is concentrated in low-frequency range with the improving of seismic amplitude. The ultimate peak seismic acceleration is obtained according to the concentration degree of low-frequency energy. The earthquake damage of the dam under the moderate-intensity earthquake is simulated and its residual seismic bearing capacity is further analyzed. The new global damage index of the dam is proposed and the overall damage degree of the dam can be distinguished using defined formula under given earthquake actions. The seismic bearing capacity of the intact Koyna dam is 591 gal considering the dam-water interaction and its residual seismic bearing capacity after simulating earthquake can be calculated.