bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Failure mode and effect analysis in blood transfusion: a proactive tool to reduce risks
Authors: Lu Yao , Teng Fang , Zhou Jie , Wen Aiqing , Bi Yutian
Published: April 2013

Background

The aim of blood transfusion risk management is to improve the quality of blood products and to assure patient safety. We utilize failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA), a tool employed for evaluating risks and identifying preventive measures to reduce the risks in blood transfusion.

Study Design and Methods

The failure modes and effects occurring throughout the whole process of blood transfusion were studied. Each failure mode was evaluated using three scores: severity of effect (S), likelihood of occurrence (O), and probability of detection (D). Risk priority numbers (RPNs) were calculated by multiplying the S, O, and D scores. The plan‐do‐check‐act cycle was also used for continuous improvement.

Results

Analysis has showed that failure modes with the highest RPNs, and therefore the greatest risk, were insufficient preoperative assessment of the blood product requirement (RPN, 245), preparation time before infusion of more than 30 minutes (RPN, 240), blood transfusion reaction occurring during the transfusion process (RPN, 224), blood plasma abuse (RPN, 180), and insufficient and/or incorrect clinical information on request form (RPN, 126). After implementation of preventative measures and reassessment, a reduction in RPN was detected with each risk. The failure mode with the second highest RPN, namely, preparation time before infusion of more than 30 minutes, was shown in detail to prove the efficiency of this tool.

Conclusions

FMEA evaluation model is a useful tool in proactively analyzing and reducing the risks associated with the blood transfusion procedure.
The summary of FUT1 and FUT2 genotyping analysis in Chinese para‐Bombay individuals including additional nine probands from Guangzhou in China
Authors: Luo Guangping , Wei Ling , Wang Zhen , Luo Hong , Zhao Yang , Zhang Runqing , Mo Chunyan , Ji Yanli
Published: April 2013

Background

The para‐Bombay phenotype is characterized by the absence or weak expression of ABH antigens on the surface of red blood cells, but normal expression in saliva.

Study Design and Methods

The para‐Bombay phenotype of the nine Chinese probands was identified by standard serologic techniques. The coding regions of FUT1 and FUT2 genes were amplified by polymerase chain reaction and then directly sequenced. ABO genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction with sequence‐specific priming method. The FUT1 and FUT2 genotypes and the distribution in all reported Chinese para‐Bombay individuals including our study were also summarized.

Results

Five FUT1 genotypes, h1h3 (n = 3), h1h2 (n = 3), h1h1 (n = 1), h3h3 (n = 1), and h2h3 (n = 1), and three functional FUT2 genotypes, Se357Se357 (n = 4), Se357Se357, 716 (n = 4), and Se357Se357, 385 (n = 1) described before were identified in nine probands.

Conclusions

The review of the literature shows that a total of 17 FUT1 alleles and four FUT2 alleles (Se357, Se357,716, Se357 385, Se) have been identified in Chinese para‐Bombay individuals. The four FUT1 alleles, h1 (547delAG), h2 (880delTT), h3 (C658T), and h4 (C35T; A980C) are most prevalent, which account for more than 90% of all allele counts and are essential to be involved when developing para‐Bombay genotyping kit for Chinese.
Neutrophils release extracellular DNA traps during storage of red blood cell units
Authors: Fuchs Tobias A. , Alvarez Javier J. , Martinod Kimberly , Bhandari Ashish A. , Kaufman Richard M. , Wagner Denisa D.
Published: April 2013

Background

Blood transfusion is associated with an increased risk of organ damage, infection, and alloimmunity. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are extracellular chromatin fibers decorated with neutrophil granular proteins that have been linked to cytotoxicity, thrombosis, and autoimmunity. We questioned whether neutrophils in blood products release NETs during storage and thus could contribute to adverse reactions from blood transfusions.

Study Design and Methods

We analyzed supernatants and blood smears of human red blood cell (RBC) units that either were or were not leukoreduced before storage for markers of NETs.

Results

We identified extracellular DNA, which was associated with histones and myeloperoxidase, a marker of neutrophil granules, in supernatants and blood smears of nonleukoreduced RBC units. These markers of NETs were absent in leukoreduced RBC units. Importantly, NETs passed through blood transfusion filters and could therefore potentially be infused into patients.

Conclusions

Our studies indicate that NETs are liberated during storage of nonleukoreduced RBC units. Future studies should address whether NETs in RBC units could potentially contribute to transfusion‐associated complications.
Current techniques in peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Ross Linda A. , Labato Mary Anna
Published: April 2013

Objective

To provide a current overview of the technique of peritoneal dialysis in dogs and cats.

Clinical Implication

Peritoneal dialysis is the process by which water and solutes move between blood in the peritoneal capillaries and fluid (dialysate) instilled into the peritoneal cavity, across the semipermeable membrane of the peritoneum. The primary indication for peritoneal dialysis (PD) in animals is for treatment of renal failure to correct water, solute, and acid‐base abnormalities and to remove uremic toxins.

Peritoneal dialysis is a modality of renal replacement therapy commonly used in human medicine for the treatment of chronic kidney disease and end‐stage kidney failure. Peritoneal dialysis utilizes the peritoneum as a membrane across which fluids and uremic solutes are exchanged. Dialysate is instilled into the peritoneal cavity and, through the process of diffusion and osmosis, water, toxins, electrolytes, and other small molecules are allowed to equilibrate.
Analysis of the Airfoil Stall With a Modification of Viscous-Inviscid Interaction Concept
Authors: Amromin E. L.
Published: April 2013

A modification of the viscous-inviscid interaction concept with the employment of coupled vortices around the airfoil wake is introduced for analyzing the airfoil stall. The analyzed flow includes the laminar boundary layers, laminar separation bubble, laminar-turbulent transition zone, turbulent boundary layers, turbulent separation zone, wake, and outer inviscid flow. Integral methods are employed for the boundary layers. The boundaries of separation zones are analyzed as free surfaces, however, their lengths and shapes depend on the Reynolds number. The described modification is validated by a comparison of the numerical results with the previously published experimental data for various airfoils and Reynolds numbers at low Mach numbers. This modification achieves a reasonably good agreement of the computed lift and moment coefficients with their measured values.
Shock-Driven Particle Transport Off Smooth and Rough Surfaces
Authors: Wayne Patrick J. , Vorobieff Peter , Smyth Hugh , Bernard Tennille , Corbin Clint , Maloney Andy , Conroy Joseph , White Ross , Anderson Michael , Kumar Sanjay , Truman C. Randall , Srivastava Deepti
Published: April 2013

The behavior of respirable particles being swept off a surface by the passage of a shock wave presents an interesting but little-studied problem. This problem has wide-ranging applications, from military to aerospace, and is being studied both numerically and experimentally. Here, we describe how a shock tube facility was modified to provide a dependable platform for such a study, with highly repeatable and well-characterized initial conditions. During the experiments, particle size distribution, surface chemical composition (that determines adhesion force between the particles and the surface), and the Mach number are closely controlled. Time-resolved visualization of the particle cloud forming after the shock passage provides insights into the physics of the flow, including the effect of the adhesion force on the growth of the cloud.
Type-II InAs/GaSb strained layer superlattices grown on GaSb (111)B substrate
Authors: Plis Elena , Klein Brianna , Myers Stephen , Gautam Nutan , Rotter Thomas J. , Dawson Ralph L. , Krishna Sanjay , Lee Sang Jun , Kim Young Heon
Published: April 2013

In this paper, the authors report on the growth of InAs/GaSb type-II strained layer superlattice (T2SL) material on (111)B GaSb substrates. Both substrate temperature and V/III beam equivalent pressure ratio were varied to optimize the crystalline and optical quality of the T2SL material. Midwave infrared (λ100% cut-off ∼ 5.6 μm at 295 K) InAs/GaSb T2SL detectors were then grown on the same substrate orientation. After detailed radiometric characterization, the authors have measured, at 295 K and 4 μm, a dark current density of 0.53 A/cm2 (at −50 mV) and a Johnson noise limited specific detectivity (D*) of 8.5 × 109 Jones, which are superior values to the state-of-the-art T2SL detectors grown on conventional GaSb (100) substrates and operating in a similar wavelength range.
Measuring the Speed of Sound Using Only a Computer
Authors: Bin Mo
Published: April 2013

In high school, velocity is usually calculated by measuring distance and the corresponding time to cover that distance. But sound travels rapidly, covering about one meter in three milliseconds. This challenge can be met by using only a computer and an external microphone. A fixed frequency (1000 Hz) is fed into the computer's speaker and the external microphone monitors this wave train close to the speaker. Then the microphone is moved about a meter further away. This produces a waveform shift that, when compared to the original wave train recording, gives a precise measure of the number of wavelengths shifted. The flight time is this number times the period. Thus, the velocity of sound is calculated by dividing the distance the microphone was moved by this flight time.
A Closer Look at Teachers' Assessment of Math Preparation
Authors: White Susan
Published: April 2013

As we saw in the April issue, over 70% of high school physics teachers believe that their students' math background is at least adequate for the course. However, a very different picture emerges when we take a closer look. In the figure at right, we have separated private schools and public schools by socioeconomic status (SES). Although the majority of teachers at both public and private schools described their students as adequately prepared for physics in terms of their math backgrounds, teachers at private schools were significantly more likely to describe their students as very well prepared (23% versus 11%) and significantly less likely to describe their students as inadequately prepared (19% versus 32%). Furthermore, teachers at public schools where students were “worse off” economically1 were more likely to find their students inadequately prepared than teachers at other public schools. Have a great summer; we will see you in the fall with more data. Susan White is Research Manager in the Statistical Research Center at the American Institute of Physics; she directs the Nationwide Survey of High School Physics Teachers. If you have any questions, please contact Susan at swhite@aip.org.
Identification and Calculation of the Three-Dimensional Orbit of an Asteroid
Authors: Pereira Vincent , Millan Justin , Martin Emerick
Published: April 2013

Asteroids are clumps of rock, the sizes of which range from less than a kilometer to a few hundred kilometers in diameter. They are generally found in the unusually large gap between Mars and Jupiter. There are probably more than 40,000 asteroids in this gap called the “asteroid belt.” In this paper we describe our efforts in confirming the identity of an asteroid and then calculating its three-dimensional orbit around the Sun, given the six elements of orbit.
Why We All Need Call Waiting on Our Phones
Authors: Higbie Jack
Published: April 2013

Have you ever noticed that you can go all day without a single call on your phone and then suddenly you get two calls at once? This is actually not as uncommon as it sounds and there is a mathematical reason for why we should expect it to happen, believe it or not.
Evidence for a spatial bias in the perception of sequences of brief tones
Authors: Rocchesso Davide , Lemaitre Guillaume , Grassi Massimo
Published: April 2013

Listeners are unable to report the physical order of particular sequences of brief tones. This phenomenon of temporal dislocation depends on tone durations and frequencies. The current study empirically shows that it also depends on the spatial location of the tones. Dichotically testing a three-tone sequence showed that the central tone tends to be reported as the first or the last element when it is perceived as part of a left-to-right motion. Since the central-tone dislocation does not occur for right-to-left sequences of the same tones, this indicates that there is a spatial bias in the perception of sequences.
Supraphysiological expression of survival motor neuron protein from an adenovirus vector does not adversely affect cell function
Authors: Goulet Benoit B. , McFall Emily R. , Wong Carmen M. , Kothary Rashmi , Parks Robin J.
Published: April 2013

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the most common inherited neurodegenerative disease that leads to infant mortality. It is caused by mutations in the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein resulting in death of alpha motor neurons. Increasing evidence suggests that several other tissues are also affected in SMA, including skeletal and cardiac muscle, liver, and pancreas, indicating that systemic delivery of therapeutics may be necessary for true disease correction. Due to the natural biodistribution of therapeutics, a level of SMN several-fold above physiological levels can be achieved in some tissues. In this study, we address whether supraphysiological levels of SMN adversely affects cell function. Infection of a variety of cell types with an adenovirus (Ad) vector encoding SMN leads to very high expression, but the resulting protein correctly localizes within the cell, and associates with normal cellular partners. Although SMN affects transcription of certain target genes and can alter the splicing pattern of others, we did not observe any difference in select target gene splicing or expression in cells overexpressing SMN. However, normal human fibroblasts treated with Ad-SMN showed a slight reduction in growth rate, suggesting that certain cell types may be differently impacted by high levels of SMN.
Landslide hazard assessment using digital elevation models
Authors: Fenton Gordon A. , McLean Amanda , Nadim Farrokh , Griffiths D.V.
Published: April 2013

Human beings are, in general, risk-averse and willing to go to great lengths to reduce failure consequences. However, if the underlying issues are not understood, effective action cannot properly be taken. A landslide hazard assessment framework capable of estimating regional probabilities of slope failure can be used to aid a vast number of communities currently living in landslide “danger zones”. Such a framework would provide a tool with which community resources can be optimized and ensure that appropriate preparedness and mitigation strategies are in place. Maximum slope angles, as estimated using digital elevation models (DEMs), are one of the most important indicators for landslide hazard assessment. This paper uses local averaging theory to determine how the resolution of DEMs affects regional landslide probability estimates. Emphasis is on a regional landslide hazard assessment, measured by the probability that one or more slopes of at least a critical minimum scale will fail within the region.
The Eocene Thomas Ranch flora, Allenby Formation, Princeton, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Dillhoff Richard M. , Dillhoff Thomas A. , Greenwood David R. , DeVore Melanie L. , Pigg Kathleen B.
Published: April 2013

A flora from Thomas Ranch near Princeton, British Columbia, Canada, is assessed for biodiversity and paleoclimate. This latest Early to early Middle Eocene flora occurs in the Allenby Formation. Seventy-six megafossil morphotypes have been recognized, representing at least 62 species, with 29 identified to genus or species. Common taxa include Ginkgo L., Metasequoia Miki, Sequoia Endl., Abies Mill., Pinus L., Pseudolarix Gordon, Acer L., Alnus Mill., Betula L., Fagus L., Sassafras J Presl, Macginitiea Wolfe & Wehr, Prunus L., and Ulmus L. More than 70 pollen and spore types are recognized, 32 of which are assignable to family or genus. The microflora is dominated by conifers (85%–97% abundance), with Betulaceae accounting for most of the angiosperms. The Climate Leaf Analysis Multivariate Program (CLAMP) calculates a mean annual temperature (MAT) of 9.0 ± 1.7 °C and bioclimatic analysis (BA) calculates a MAT of 12.8 ± 2.5 °C. Coldest month mean temperature (CMMT) was >0 °C. Mean annual precipitation (MAP) was >70 cm/year but is estimated with high uncertainty. Both the CLAMP and BA estimates are at the low end of the MAT range previously published for other Okanagan Highland localities, indicating a temperate climate consistent with a mixed conifer–deciduous forest.
Comprehensive analysis of Ginkgo tablets by easy ambient sonic spray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Borges Endler Marcel , Volmer Dietrich A. , Eberlin Marcos N.
Published: April 2013

We report here that easy ambient sonic spray ionization − mass spectrometry (EASI−MS) allowed direct, rapid, and comprehensive analysis of active components (e.g., terpenetrilactones and intact flavonol glycosides) in Ginkgo tablets. Unlike conventional methods that hydrolyze flavonol glycosides to flavonoids prior to analysis, EASI−MS detects intact flavonol glycosides directly from the tablets enabling differentiation of these natural glycosides from the synthetic flavonoids. Adulteration of Ginkgo tablets is therefore readily recognized in less than 10 s measurement time. Sample preparation is simple and requires only 0.5 mL of methanol and a mortar and pestle. Additionally, no reference standards are needed and a comparison is made to a certified Ginkgo tablet. To demonstrate these abilities, 22 commercial Ginkgo tablets were analyzed by EASI−MS. The data revealed large variations of ingredients and strong deviations from the specified Ginkgo extract levels. These results emphasize the importance of monitoring Ginkgo products using appropriate methodologies as suggested in our work. The technique may replace more demanding LC−MS/MS methods, which can achieve comparable results but are considerably more labor-intensive. Importantly, the presented method is cheaper, faster, and much simpler to operate than chromatography-based mass spectrometric techniques.
Fin erosion and injuries in relation to adult recapture rates in cultured smolts of Atlantic salmon and brown trout
Authors: Petersson Erik , Karlsson Lars , Ragnarsson Bjarne , Bryntesson Marcus , Berglund Anders , Stridsman Stefan , Jonsson Sara
Published: April 2013

The implications of fin erosion and other injuries that are directly or indirectly caused by the hatchery environment have long been debated. Fin condition has been regarded as an indicator of welfare in fish farms, but until now there has been little evidence that eroded fins have negative effects on survival after stocking in the wild. Based on over 40 years of tagging and recapture data, we show that Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) with dorsal fin erosion and brown trout (Salmo trutta) with any kind of injuries had lower recapture rates than fish without injuries. In salmon, precocious mature males had a lower probability of being recaptured compared with immature fish. Data from a hatchery monitoring program indicated that the degree of fin erosion on the dorsal fin in salmon and on the caudal fin in trout was correlated with the number of other injuries. We conclude that fin erosion and other injuries may reduce the probability of survival after release. All actions in the hatcheries to reduce fin erosion and other injuries will most likely be positive for the long-term outcome of the stocking programs.
Effect of atorvastatin on atherosclerotic plaque formation and platelet activation in hypercholesterolemic rats
Authors: Gocmen Ayse Yesim , Ocak Guzide Ayse , Ozbilim Gulay , Delibas Namik , Gumuslu Saadet
Published: April 2013

We aimed to investigate whether atorvastatin influenced the CD40–CD40L pathway in atherosclerosis formation in rats fed a high cholesterol diet. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were divided among 4 groups as follows: control (C), statin (S), 5% cholesterol fed (HC), and statin-administered hypercholesterolemic (HCS). Serum levels of lipids, soluble CD40L, platelet factor 4, and interleukin-6 were assayed with commercial kits. The number of platelets expressing surface P-selectin, CD40, and CD40L were determined by flow cytometry. Aortas were examined for fatty streaks. In the HC group, we observed a significant increase in serum lipid levels and platelet activation markers compared with the control group. Rats in the HCS group had a significant decrease in lipid levels and downregulation in the number of platelets expressing surface P-selectin, CD40, and CD40L compared with the HC group. We observed decreased fatty streak formations in aortas in HCS rats. A positive correlation was found for platelet activation markers and atherosclerotic fatty streak formations. Regression analysis revealed that the predictor of atherosclerosis was CD40L. Our study suggests that in a rat hypercholesterolemic model, statin treatment may influence the CD40–CD40L dyad, and that this effect is parallelled by a suppression of progression of atherosclerotic plaque formation.
Probucol inhibits JAK2−STAT pathway activation and protects human glomerular mesangial cells from tert-butyl hydroperoxide induced premature senescence
Authors: Zhou Hongli , Huang Bo , Han Yarong , Jin Ruixia , Chen Shuo
Published: April 2013

Human mesangial cells (HMCs) have a finite lifespan and eventually enter irreversible growth arrest known as cellular senescence, which is thought to contribute to kidney ageing and age-related kidney disorders such as chronic kidney disease. The JAK2−STAT pathway plays a pivotal role in transmitting cytokine signals, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation, but whether it could regulate HMC senescence still remains to be explored. In our study, tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP)-induced cells accelerated HMC senescence, as judged by increased senescence-associated β-galactosidase stained positive cells, morphological changes, and G0−G1 cell cycle arrest. STAT1 and STAT3 activity were increased in tBHP-induced cells. After tBHP treatment, Bcl-2 protein expression decreased and Bax protein expression increased. Blocking the JAK2−STAT pathway with AG490 and using probucol significantly inhibited the progression of HMC senescence. Bax protein expression decreased, but Bcl-2 protein expression increased after AG490 and probucol treatment. Our results indicated that the JAK2−STAT pathway might mediate tBHP-induced HMC senescence through the Bcl-2−Bax pathway, and that probucol could attenuate HMC senescence by regulating STATs.
Environmental control of seasonal reproduction in the wild and captive Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus) with respect to variations in gonadal mass, histology, and sex steroids
Authors: Dixit Anand S. , Singh Namram S.
Published: April 2013

The present study was undertaken on both sexes of the subtropical Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus (L., 1758)) to investigate seasonal cycles of gonadal mass, histology, and hormones in relation to various environmental factors at Shillong, India. Attempts were also made to examine whether seasonal responses differ under wild and captivity and also between the sexes. Finally, reproductive seasonality of the sparrow under subtropical conditions was compared with the patterns found elsewhere in its distribution. Both sexes of the Tree Sparrow possess annual cycles of gonadal mass, histology, and steroids that follow the annual solar cycle. Increasing day length during spring stimulates gonadal growth with a corresponding increase in gonadal steroids followed by spontaneous gonadal regression leading to steroidal decline and photorefractoriness. Histomorphometric analyses of gonads revealed seasonal variations in the thickness of germinative epithelium and testicular wall, diameters of seminiferous tubules, and area of intertubular space in the males, and in the thickness of follicle wall and ratio of various follicles in the females. Although males responded in a similar fashion under wild and captivity, the responses of females deferred significantly. Thus, the Tree Sparrow exhibited sexual responses almost similar to their conspecifics at other latitudes.
Interactive effects of calcium decline and predation risk on the potential for a continuing northward range expansion of the rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus)
Authors: Edwards Brie A. , Lewis Vern R.E. , Rodd F. Helen , Jackson Donald A.
Published: April 2013

Over the last three decades, the rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus (Girard, 1852)) has been expanding its range northward via human-mediated dispersal. If this species is to continue expanding its range northward, it will move onto the Canadian Shield, where calcium (Ca) availability is low and is predicted to decline further in the future. Dissolved Ca is a vital functional component of mollusc and crustacean physiology, important for exoskeletal condition and strength, as well as metabolic activity. However, some organisms are able to compensate for reduced structural integrity by modifying their behaviour. In this study, we asked if the invasive O. rusticus can survive low levels of ambient Ca and, if it can, whether it exhibits modified antipredator behavior in response to the physiological limitations imposed by low [Ca]. We found that, under reduced Ca levels, O. rusticus reduced the frequency of standard activities (such as grooming and foraging) and was more likely to engage in vigilance and (or) escape behavior. We also found that some individuals, in extremely low [Ca], died while molting. This study suggests that Ca limitation on the Shield, especially where predators are present, may limit the northward expansion of O. rusticus beyond their current range limit.
HOW DEEPLY DO WE INCLUDE ROBOTIC AGENTS IN THE SELF?
Authors: STENZEL ANNA , CHINELLATO ERIS , DEL POBIL ANGEL P. , LAPPE MARKUS , LIEPELT ROMAN
Published: April 2013

In human–human interactions, a consciously perceived high degree of self–other overlap is associated with a higher degree of integration of the other person's actions into one's own cognitive representations. Here, we report data suggesting that this pattern does not hold for human–robot interactions. Participants performed a social Simon task with a robot, and afterwards indicated the degree of self–other overlap using the Inclusion of the Other in the Self (IOS) scale. We found no overall correlation between the social Simon effect (as an indirect measure of self–other overlap) and the IOS score (as a direct measure of self–other overlap). For female participants we even observed a negative correlation. Our findings suggest that conscious and unconscious evaluations of a robot may come to different results, and hence point to the importance of carefully choosing a measure for quantifying the quality of human–robot interactions.
RETHINKING THE ROLE OF INTERMEDIARIES AS AN ARCHITECT OF COLLECTIVE EXPLORATION AND CREATION OF KNOWLEDGE IN OPEN INNOVATION
Authors: AGOGUÉ MARINE , YSTRÖM ANNA , LE MASSON PASCAL
Published: April 2013

This paper questions the applicability of traditional notions of intermediary activities, which are usually categorized as either brokering or networking, in cases of high uncertainty regarding technologies, markets or which actors to involve. In the case of collaborative open innovation, especially in circumstances when no single organization is able to take on the challenge alone, the activities traditionally associated with intermediation do not suffice to describe what an intermediary can do to support innovation. This paper presents two cases of intermediaries working with the early phases of traffic safety innovations, and how they have managed to develop their activities beyond solely brokering and networking, but also to take an active role in the process of joint exploration and creation of knowledge. We use a qualitative approach to analyze the two cases in order to provide examples of how rethinking intermediation activities can support open innovation in a collaborative setting. The findings suggest that intermediaries can take on a more active role, which could be described as an architect which designs prerequisites and offers leadership in the process of joint exploration and creation of knowledge.
Alternative Forms of Enhanced Boussinesq Equations with Improved Nonlinearity
Authors: Fang Kezhao , Liu Zhongbo , Gui Qinqin , Zou Zhili , Yin Jiwei
Published: April 2013

We propose alternative forms of the Boussinesq equations which extend the equations of Madsen and Schäffer by introducing extra nonlinear terms during enhancement. Theoretical analysis shows that nonlinear characteristics are considerably improved. A numerical implementation of one-dimensional equations is described. Three tests involving strongly nonlinear evolution, namely, regular waves propagating over an elevated bar feature in a tank with an otherwise constant depth, wave group transformation over constant water depth, and nonlinear shoaling of unsteady waves over a sloping beach, are simulated by the model. The model is found to be effective.
Interprofessional Collaboration in the Detection of and Early Intervention in Child Maltreatment: Employees' Experiences
Authors: Inkilä Jaana , Flinck Aune , Luukkaala Tiina , Åstedt-Kurki Päivi , Paavilainen Eija
Published: April 2013

Child maltreatment is a global problem and a multidimensional phenomenon occurring in all social classes. This study depicts interprofessional collaboration associated with the detection of and early intervention in child maltreatment taking place in the family. The data were collected in a large Finnish city, Tampere (207 866 citizens). A survey was administered to employees in day care, basic education, social and health services, and police (n=865). The results indicate that interprofessional collaboration associated with the detection of and intervention in child maltreatment was best accomplished by social service employees and police personnel. Employees in day care, basic education, health services, and police had little knowledge of the methods used in other units. The most support for collaboration was reported by employees in social services and day care. The results provide basic knowledge of interprofessional collaboration associated with child maltreatment between the agencies involved in the study. The research evidence can also be utilized in an international context when developing collaboration between different fields.
Abundant Exact Solition-Like Solutions to the Generalized Bretherton Equation with Arbitrary Constants
Authors: Yu Xiuqing , Xu Fengsheng , Zhang Lihua
Published: April 2013

The Riccati equation is employed to construct exact travelling wave solutions to the generalized Bretherton equation. Taking full advantage of the Riccati equation which has more new solutions, abundant new multiple solition-like solutions are obtained for the generalized Bretherton equation.
Efficient Algorithms for Optimal 4-Bit Reversible Logic System Synthesis
Authors: Li Zhiqiang , Chen Hanwu , Yang Guowu , Liu Wenjie
Published: April 2013

Owing to the exponential nature of the memory and run-time complexity, many methods can only synthesize 3-bit reversible circuits and cannot synthesize 4-bit reversible circuits well. We mainly absorb the ideas of our 3-bit synthesis algorithms based on hash table and present the efficient algorithms which can construct almost all optimal 4-bit reversible logic circuits with many types of gates and at mini-length cost based on constructing the shortest coding and the specific topological compression; thus, the lossless compression ratio of the space ofn-bit circuits reaches near2×n!. This paper presents the first work to create all 3120218828 optimal 4-bit reversible circuits with up to 8 gates for the CNT (Controlled-NOT gate, NOT gate, and Toffoli gate) library, and it can quickly achieve 16 steps through specific cascading created circuits.
Malignant Glomus Tumor (Glomangiosarcoma) of Intestinal Ileum: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Abu-Zaid Ahmed , Azzam Ayman , Amin Tarek , Mohammed Shamayel
Published: April 2013

Glomus tumors are rare mesenchymal neoplastic lesions arising from glomus bodies that are involved in skin thermoregulation. They are mostly benign tumors, and malignant variants have been rarely reported. The subungual zones of fingers and toes are the most frequent sites of observation. Glomus tumors arising in visceral organs of the gastrointestinal tract are exceedingly rare. Stomach antrum and intestinal duodenum are the most frequent organs involved. No single case of glomus tumor involving intestinal ileum has been previously reported in the English medical literature. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first case of malignant glomus tumor (glomangiosarcoma) of intestinal ileum in a 29-year-old female patient who presented with a 1-month history of a tender pelvi-abdominal mass, constipation, vomiting, and melena. The intestinal ileum glomus tumor was resected, and histopathological diagnosis was consistent with glomangiosarcoma. A postoperative 6-month followup failed to show any evidence of tumor recurrence.
H∞Channel Estimation for DS-CDMA Systems: A Partial Difference Equation Approach
Authors: Wang Wei , Han Chunyan
Published: April 2013

In the communications literature, a number of different algorithms have been proposed for channel estimation problems with the statistics of the channel noise and observation noise exactly known. In practical systems, however, the channel parameters are often estimated using training sequences which lead to the statistics of the channel noise difficult to obtain. Moreover, the received signals are corrupted not only by the ambient noises but also by multiple-access interferences, so the statistics of observation noises is also difficult to obtain. In this paper, we will investigate theH∞channel estimation problem for direct-sequence code-division multiple-access (DS-CDMA) communication systems with time-varying multipath fading channels. The channel estimator is designed by applying a partial difference equation approach together with the innovation analysis theory. This method can give a sufficient and necessary condition for the existence of anH∞channel estimator.
A Review of the Combination of Experimental Measurements and Fibril-Reinforced Modeling for Investigation of Articular Cartilage and Chondrocyte Response to Loading
Authors: Julkunen Petro , Wilson Wouter , Isaksson Hanna , Jurvelin Jukka S. , Herzog Walter , Korhonen Rami K.
Published: April 2013

The function of articular cartilage depends on its structure and composition, sensitively impaired in disease (e.g. osteoarthritis, OA). Responses of chondrocytes to tissue loading are modulated by the structure. Altered cell responses as an effect of OA may regulate cartilage mechanotransduction and cell biosynthesis. To be able to evaluate cell responses and factors affecting the onset and progression of OA, local tissue and cell stresses and strains in cartilage need to be characterized. This is extremely challenging with the presently available experimental techniques and therefore computational modeling is required. Modern models of articular cartilage are inhomogeneous and anisotropic, and they include many aspects of the real tissue structure and composition. In this paper, we provide an overview of the computational applications that have been developed for modeling the mechanics of articular cartilage at the tissue and cellular level. We concentrate on the use of fibril-reinforced models of cartilage. Furthermore, we introduce practical considerations for modeling applications, including also experimental tests that can be combined with the modeling approach. At the end, we discuss the prospects for patient-specific models when aiming to use finite element modeling analysis and evaluation of articular cartilage function, cellular responses, failure points, OA progression, and rehabilitation.
Ultrasonic Sensor-Based Personalized Multichannel Audio Rendering for Multiview Broadcasting Services
Authors: Kim Yong Guk , Moon Sang-Taeck , Choi Seung Ho , Kim Hong Kook
Published: April 2013

An ultrasonic sensor-based personalized multichannel audio rendering method is proposed for multiview broadcasting services. Multiview broadcasting, a representative next-generation broadcasting technique, renders video image sequences captured by several stereoscopic cameras from different viewpoints. To achieve realistic multiview broadcasting, multichannel audio that is synchronized with a user's viewpoint should be rendered in real time. For this reason, both a real-time person-tracking technique for estimating the user's position and a multichannel audio rendering technique for virtual sound localization are necessary in order to provide realistic audio. Therefore, the proposed method is composed of two parts: a person-tracking method using ultrasonic sensors and a multichannel audio rendering method using MPEG Surround parameters. In order to evaluate the perceptual quality and localization performance of the proposed method, a MUSHRA listening test is conducted, and the directivity patterns are investigated. It is shown from these experiments that the proposed method provides better perceptual quality and localization performance than a conventional multichannel audio rendering method that also uses MPEG Surround parameters.
Decoloring Methyl Orange under Sunlight by a Photocatalytic Membrane Reactor Based on ZnO Nanoparticles and Polypropylene Macroporous Membrane
Authors: Hu Bing , Zhou Jin , Wu Xiu-Min
Published: April 2013

Decoloring methyl orange (MeOr) under sunlight was conducted in a photocatalytic membrane reactor (PMR). Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were suspended in the solution or immobilized on the membrane. The membrane was modified by grafting 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) to enhance the adsorption of ZnO NPs on the hydrophobic membrane surface and improve the membrane permeability. The results show that the water fluxes through the modified membranes are higher than that through the unmodified membrane. After introducing ZnO NPs to the membrane, the water fluxes still rise with the immobilization degree of ZnO NPs. For the PMR with ZnO NPs in suspension, the photocatalytic decoloration percent (PDP) was over 98.2% after 40 min under sunlight. For the PMR with ZnO NPs immobilized on the membrane, the max of PDP was 74.3% after 6 h under sunlight, and maintained at 72% after repeated uses for five times. These results demonstrate that photocatalytic membrane reactor (PMR) based on ZnO NPs and polypropylene macroporous membrane(PPMM) could be applied in decoloring dyes.
Dexmedetomidine Inhibits Inflammatory Reaction in Lung Tissues of Septic Rats by Suppressing TLR4/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Wu Yuqing , Liu Yingchun , Huang He , Zhu Yangzi , Zhang Yong , Lu Fuzhao , Zhou Ce , Huang Li , Li Xin , Zhou Chenghua
Published: April 2013

Dexmedetomidine has been reported to reduce mortality in septic rats. This study was designed to investigate the effects of dexmedetomidine on inflammatory reaction in lung tissues of septic rats induced by CLP. After induction of sepsis, the rats were treated with normal saline or dexmedetomidine (5, 10, or 20 μg/kg). The survival rate of septic rats in 24 h was recorded. The inflammation of lung tissues was evaluated by HE stain. The concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-αin BALF and plasma were measured by ELISA. The expressions of TLR4 and MyD88 were measured by western blotting. The activation of NF-κB in rat lung tissues was assessed by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. It was found that the mortality rate and pulmonary inflammation were significantly increased in septic rats. IL-6 and TNF-αlevels in BALF and plasma, NF-κB activity, and TLR4/MyD88 expression in rat lung tissues were markedly enhanced after CLP. Dexmedetomidine (10 and 20 μg/kg) significantly decreased mortality and pulmonary inflammation of septic rats, as well as suppressed CLP-induced elevation of TNF-αand IL-6 and inhibited TLR4/MyD88 expression and NF-κB activation. These results suggest that dexmedetomidine may decrease mortality and inhibit inflammatory reaction in lung tissues of septic rats by suppressing TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway.
On Equations of Motion of Elastic Linkages by FEM
Authors: Hać Michał
Published: April 2013

Discussion on equations of motion of planar flexible mechanisms is presented in this paper. The finite element method (FEM) is used for obtaining vibrational analysis of links. In derivation of dynamic equations it is commonly assumed that the shape function of elastic motion can represent rigid-body motion. In this paper, in contrast to this assumption, a model of the shape function specifically dedicated to the rigid-body motion is presented, and its influence on elastic motion is included in equations of motion; the inertia matrix related to the rigid-body acceleration vector depends on both shape functions of the elastic and rigid elements. The numerical calculations are conducted in order to determine the influence of the assumed shape function for rigid-body motion on the vibration of links in the case of closed-loop and open-loop mechanisms. The results of numerical simulation show that for transient analysis and for some specific conditions (e.g., starting range, open-loop mechanisms) the influence of assumed shape functions on vibration response can be quite significant.
Cardiotoxin III Inhibits Proliferation and Migration of Oral Cancer Cells through MAPK and MMP Signaling
Authors: Yen Ching-Yu , Liang Shih-Shin , Han Lo-Yi , Chou Han-Lin , Chou Chon-Kit , Lin Shinne-Ren , Chiu Chien-Chih
Published: April 2013

Cardiotoxin III (CTXIII), isolated from the snake venom of Formosan cobra Naja naja atra, has previously been found to induce apoptosis in many types of cancer. Early metastasis is typical for the progression of oral cancer. To modulate the cell migration behavior of oral cancer is one of the oral cancer therapies. In this study, the possible modulating effect of CTXIII on oral cancer migration is addressed. In the example of oral squamous carcinoma Ca9‐22 cells, the cell viability was decreased by CTXIII treatment in a dose‐responsive manner. In wound‐healing assay, the cell migration of Ca9‐22 cells was attenuated by CTXIII in a dose‐ and time‐responsive manner. After CTXIII treatment, the MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 protein expressions were downregulated, and the phosphorylation of JNK and p38‐MAPK was increased independent of ERK phosphorylation. In conclusion, CTXIII has antiproliferative and ‐migrating effects on oral cancer cells involving the p38‐MAPK and MMP‐2/‐9 pathways.
Granulomatous Lung Disease Requiring Mechanical Ventilation Induced by a Single Application of Oxaliplatin-Based Chemotherapy for Colorectal Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Wildner Dane , Boxberger Frank , Wein Axel , Wolff Kerstin , Albrecht Heinz , Männlein Gudrun , Janka Rolf , Amann Kerstin , Siebler Jürgen , Hohenberger Werner , Neurath Markus F. , Strauß Richard
Published: April 2013

Combined chemotherapeutic regimens in conjunction with oxaliplatin are considered safe and effective treatment options in the clinical management of metastatic colorectal cancer. A 62-year-old male patient with a metastatic rectal carcinoma developed a pulmonary reaction after the first application of the combined standard chemotherapy regimen (5-fluorouracil and sodium folinic acid as a 24 h infusion and oxaliplatin). Following the first dose of chemotherapy, the patient developed acute dyspnoea and fever. A computerised scan of the chest revealed bilateral pulmonary patchy consolidation. Despite high-dose empiric antibiotic and antimycotic treatment, no clinical improvement was seen. The patient's condition deteriorated, and he required invasive mechanical ventilation. Diagnostic thoracoscopic wedge resections were performed for further diagnosis. The histological workup revealed distinct granulomatous inflammation, but no microbial pathogens were to be found. Thereupon, a drug-induced reaction to chemotherapy was suspected and high-dose steroid treatment initiated. Subsequently, the patient's respiratory condition improved and he was extubated. The present case exemplifies the rare course of a bilateral pneumonia-like, drug-induced granulomatous reaction following a single application of oxaliplatin. In addition to the known side effects of oxaliplatin-containing combination chemotherapy, unexpected serious adverse events in the form of pulmonary toxicities should also be taken into account.
Preparation, Characterization, Thermal, and Flame‐Retardant Properties of Green Silicon‐Containing Epoxy/Functionalized Graphene Nanosheets Composites
Authors: Shen Ming-Yuan , Kuan Chen-Feng , Kuan Hsu-Chiang , Chen Chia-Hsun , Wang Jia-Hong , Yip Ming-Chuen , Chiang Chin-Lung
Published: April 2013

In this investigation, silane was grafted onto the surface of graphene nanosheets (GNSs) through free radical reactions, to form Si‐O‐Et functional groups that can undergo the sol‐gel reaction. To improve the compatibility between the polymer matrix and the fillers, epoxy monomer was modified using a silane coupling agent; then, the functionalized GNSs were added to the modified epoxy to improve the thermal stability and strengthen the flame‐retardant character of the composites. High‐resolution X‐ray photoelectron spectrometry reveals that when the double bonds in VTES are grafted to the surfaces of GNSs. Solid‐state 29Si nuclear magnetic resonance presents that the distribution of the signal associated with the T3 structure is wide and significant, indicating that the functionalization reaction of the silicone in the modified epoxy and VTES‐GNSs increases the network‐like character of the structures. Thermal gravimetric analysis, the integral procedure decomposition temperature, and limiting oxygen index demonstrate that the GNSs composites that contained silicon had a higher thermal stability and stronger flame‐retardant character than pure epoxy. The dynamic storage modulus of all of the m‐GNSs containing composites was significantly higher than that of the control epoxy, and the modulus of the composites increased with the concentration of m‐GNSs.
Ecofriendly and Facile One-Pot Multicomponent Synthesis of Thiopyrimidines under Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Sahoo Biswa Mohan , Ravi Kumar B. V. V. , Panda Jnyanaranjan , Dinda S. C.
Published: April 2013

A rapid, improved, and ecofriendly synthesis of thiopyrimidines is carried out via one-pot multicomponent reaction of ethylcyanoacetate, substituted benzaldehydes, and thiourea in presence of ethanolic K2CO3 using microwave irradiation heating method. Excellent yields, shorter reaction time, and easy workup are the major advantageous features of this green protocol. So the application of multicomponent reactions involves the combination of multiple starting materials with different functional groups leading to the highly efficient and environmentally friendly construction of multifunctional drug molecules. The structures of the newly synthesized products were assigned on the basis of IR and 1HNMR spectral data.