bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequent Statement and Dereference Elimination for Imperative and Object-Oriented Distributed Programs
Authors: El-Zawawy Mohamed A.
Published: April 2014

This paper introduces new approaches for the analysis offrequent statement and dereference eliminationfor imperative and object-oriented distributed programs running on parallel machines equipped with hierarchical memories. The paper uses languages whose address spaces are globally partitioned. Distributed programs allow defining data layout and threads writing to and reading from other thread memories. Three type systems (for imperative distributed programs) are the tools of the proposed techniques. The first type system defines for every program point a set of calculated (ready) statements and memory accesses. The second type system uses an enriched version of types of the first type system and determines which of thereadystatements and memory accesses are used later in the program. The third type system uses the information gather so far to eliminate unnecessary statement computations and memory accesses (the analysis offrequent statement and dereference elimination). Extensions to these type systems are also presented to cover object-oriented distributed programs. Two advantages of our work over related work are the following. The hierarchical style of concurrent parallel computers is similar to the memory model used in this paper. In our approach, each analysis result is assigned a type derivation (serves as a correctness proof).
Nd:YAG Capsulotomy after Phacoemulsification in Vitrectomized Eyes: Effects of Pars Plana Vitrectomy on Posterior Capsule Opacification
Authors: Jun Jong Hwa , Kim Kwang Soo , Chang Sung Dong
Published: April 2014

To compare the progression of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in patients who required Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy following either combined cataract surgery with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV; C-CV), sequential cataract surgery after PPV (S-CV), or cataract surgery alone (CA). The medical records of 321 patients (408 eyes) who underwent Nd:YAG capsulotomy were retrospectively evaluated. The CA group had a significantly longer time interval from cataract surgery to capsulotomy than that of both the CV group(P=0.006)and the S-CV(P=0.013)and C-CV(P=0.042)subgroups when age-matched comparisons were used. CV patients who implanted a hydrophobic acrylic IOL had shorter time intervals than those of CA patients(P=0.028). CV patients had larger hazard of earlier capsulotomy than CA patients (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.337; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.100–1.625;P=0.004). C-CV and S-CV patients both had larger hazard than CA patients in earlier capsulotomy (HR=1.304; 95%CI=1.007–1.688;P=0.044,HR=1.361; 95%  CI=1.084–1.709;P=0.008, resp.). PCO progresses more rapidly in patients undergoing combined or sequential cataract surgery and PPV than in patients undergoing CA.
Calcium Influx and Male Fertility in the Context of the Sperm Proteome: An Update
Authors: Rahman Md Saidur , Kwon Woo-Sung , Pang Myung-Geol
Published: April 2014

Freshly ejaculated spermatozoa are incapable or poorly capable of fertilizing an oocyte. The fertilization aptness of spermatozoa depends on the appropriate and time-dependent acquisition of hyperactivation, chemotaxis, capacitation, and the acrosome reaction, where calcium (Ca2+) is extensively involved in almost every step. A literature review showed that several ion channel proteins are likely responsible for regulation of the Ca2+uptake in spermatozoa. Therefore, manipulation of the functions of channel proteins is closely related to Ca2+influx, ultimately affecting male fertility. Recently, it has been shown that, together with different physiological stimuli, protein-protein interaction also modifies the Ca2+influx mechanism in spermatozoa. Modern proteomic analyses have identified several sperm proteins, and, therefore, these findings might provide further insight into understanding the Ca2+influx, protein functions, and regulation of fertility. The objective of this review was to synthesize the published findings on the Ca2+influx mechanism in mammalian spermatozoa and its implications for the regulation of male fertility in the context of sperm proteins. Finally, Pathway Studio (9.0) was used to catalog the sperm proteins that regulate the Ca2+influx signaling by using the information available from the PubMed database following a MedScan Reader (5.0) search.
Robust Exponential Stabilization of Stochastic Delay Interval Recurrent Neural Networks with Distributed Parameters and Markovian Jumping by Using Periodically Intermittent Control
Authors: Hu Junhao , Peng Yunjian , Li Yan
Published: April 2014

We consider a class of stochastic delay recurrent neural networks with distributed parameters and Markovian jumping. It is assumed that the coefficients in these neural networks belong to the interval matrices. Several sufficient conditions ensuring robust exponential stabilization are derived by using periodically intermittent control and Lyapunov functional. The obtained results are very easy to verify and implement, and improve the existing results. Finally, an example with numerical simulations is given to illustrate the presented criteria.
Validating SPICES as a Screening Tool for Frailty Risks among Hospitalized Older Adults
Authors: Aronow Harriet Udin , Borenstein Jeff , Haus Flora , Braunstein Glenn D. , Bolton Linda Burnes
Published: April 2014

Older patients are vulnerable to adverse hospital events related to frailty. SPICES, a common screening protocol to identify risk factors in older patients, alerts nurses to initiate care plans to reduce the probability of patient harm. However, there is little published validating the association between SPICES and measures of frailty and adverse outcomes. This paper used data from a prospective cohort study on frailty among 174 older adult inpatients to validate SPICES. Almost all patients met one or more SPICES criteria. The sum of SPICES was significantly correlated with age and other well-validated assessments for vulnerability, comorbid conditions, and depression. Individuals meeting two or more SPICES criteria had a risk of adverse hospital events three times greater than individuals with either no or one criterion. Results suggest that as a screening tool used within 24 hours of admission, SPICES is both valid and predictive of adverse events.
WHO Ear and Hearing Disorders Survey: Ecuador National Study 2008-2009
Authors: Ullauri Alejandra , Smith Andrew , Espinel Mauricio , Jimenez Carlos , Salazar Cesar , Castrillon Rodrigo
Published: April 2014

Objectives. (1) Provide regional governments, institutions, and professionals with local and accurate information on the prevalence of ear and hearing disorders in the Ecuadorian population. (2) Contribute to the global burden of disease by generating standardized data that can be compared among countries and regions. Method. This was a prospective multistage cluster sample design study. Population tested included all members of households selected according to the sample strategy (cluster sample design). Testing was carried out in hospital facilities across the country including audiometry/TEAOEs and otological examination. Results. 5762 subjects were tested, with a global prevalence of hearing disability of 5% with a 95% CI of 3.9% a 6.1%. Out of the total population tested 14.52% are in need of action or services. Conclusions. The prevalence of disablility in hearing correlates with the prevalence found in other studies using the same protocol. The Ecuadorian population is in need of a substantial improvement in hearing services delivery.
Accumulation of Misfolded SOD1 in Dorsal Root Ganglion Degenerating Proprioceptive Sensory Neurons of Transgenic Mice with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Sábado Javier , Casanovas Anna , Tarabal Olga , Hereu Marta , Piedrafita Lídia , Calderó Jordi , Esquerda Josep E.
Published: April 2014

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting upper and lower motoneurons (MNs). Although the motor phenotype is a hallmark for ALS, there is increasing evidence that systems other than the efferent MN system can be involved. Mutations ofsuperoxide dismutase 1(SOD1) gene cause a proportion of familial forms of this disease. Misfolding and aggregation of mutant SOD1 exert neurotoxicity in a noncell autonomous manner, as evidenced in studies using transgenic mouse models. Here, we used theSOD1G93Amouse model for ALS to detect, by means of conformational-specific anti-SOD1 antibodies, whether misfolded SOD1-mediated neurotoxicity extended to neuronal types other than MNs. We report that large dorsal root ganglion (DRG) proprioceptive neurons accumulate misfolded SOD1 and suffer a degenerative process involving the inflammatory recruitment of macrophagic cells. Degenerating sensory axons were also detected in association with activated microglial cells in the spinal cord dorsal horn of diseased animals. As large proprioceptive DRG neurons project monosynaptically to ventral horn MNs, we hypothesise that a prion-like mechanism may be responsible for the transsynaptic propagation of SOD1 misfolding from ventral horn MNs to DRG sensory neurons.
Association of Irisin with Fat Mass, Resting Energy Expenditure, and Daily Activity in Conditions of Extreme Body Mass Index
Authors: Pardo María , Crujeiras Ana B. , Amil María , Aguera Zaida , Jiménez-Murcia Susana , Baños Rosa , Botella Cristina , de la Torre Rafael , Estivill Xavier , Fagundo Ana B. , Fernández-Real Jose M. , Fernández-García José C. , Fruhbeck Gema , Gómez-Ambrosi Javier , Rodríguez Roser , Tinahones Francisco J. , Fernández-Aranda Fernando , Casanueva Felipe F.
Published: April 2014

FNDC5/irisin has been recently postulated as beneficial in the treatment of obesity and diabetes because it is induced in muscle by exercise, increasing energy expenditure. However, recent reports have shown that WAT also secretes irisin and that circulating irisin is elevated in obese subjects. The aim of this study was to evaluate irisin levels in conditions of extreme BMI and its correlation with basal metabolism and daily activity. The study involved 145 female patients, including 96 with extreme BMIs (30 anorexic (AN) and 66 obese (OB)) and 49 healthy normal weight (NW). The plasma irisin levels were significantly elevated in the OB patients compared with the AN and NW patients. Irisin also correlated positively with body weight, BMI, and fat mass. The OB patients exhibited the highest REE and higher daily physical activity compared with the AN patients but lower activity compared with the NW patients. The irisin levels were inversely correlated with daily physical activity and directly correlated with REE. Fat mass contributed to most of the variability of the irisin plasma levels independently of the other studied parameters.Conclusion. Irisin levels are influenced by energy expenditure independently of daily physical activity but fat mass is the main contributing factor.
Characterization and Degradation of Masonry Mortar in Historic Brick Structures
Authors: Brosnan Denis A.
Published: April 2014

This study characterized mortars from a masonry fortification in Charleston, South Carolina (USA), harbor where construction was during the period 1839–1860. This location for analysis was interesting because of the sea water impingement on the structure. The study was included as part of an overall structural assessment with restoration as an objective. The mortars were found to be cement, lime, and sand mixtures in proportions similar to ones expected from the historic literature, that is, one part binder to two parts of sand. The binder was found to be American natural cement, a substance analogous to the European Roman cement. The results suggest that the thermal history of the cement during manufacturing affected setting rate explaining why the cements were considered as variable during the mid-to-late 1800s. Fine pores were found in mortars exposed to sea water resulting from corrosion. Contemporary natural cement was shown to release calcium in aqueous solution. While this release of calcium is necessary for setting in natural and Portland cements, excessive calcium solution, as exacerbated by sea water contact and repointing with Portland cement mortars, was shown to result in brick scaling or decay through cryptoflorescence.
Geodesics on Point Clouds
Authors: Yu Hongchuan , Zhang Jian J. , Jiao Zheng
Published: April 2014

We present a novel framework to compute geodesics on implicit surfaces and point clouds. Our framework consists of three parts, particle based approximate geodesics on implicit surfaces, Cartesian grid based approximate geodesics on point clouds, and geodesic correction. The first two parts can effectively generate approximate geodesics on implicit surfaces and point clouds, respectively. By introducing the geodesic curvature flow, the third part produces smooth and accurate geodesic solutions. Differing from most of the existing methods, our algorithms can converge to a given tolerance. The presented computational framework is suitable for arbitrary implicit hypersurfaces or point clouds with high genus or high curvature.
Dynamics of an SIR Epidemic Model with Information Variable and Limited Medical Resources Revisited
Authors: Yan Caijuan , Jia Jianwen , Jin Zhen
Published: April 2014

The stability of the SIR epidemic model with information variable and limited medical resources was studied. When the basic reproduction ratioℛ0<1, there exists the disease-free equilibrium and when the basic reproduction ratioℛ0>1, we obtain the sufficient conditions of the existence of the endemic equilibrium. The local asymptotical stability of equilibrium is verified by analyzing the eigenvalues and using the Routh-Hurwitz criterion. We also discuss the global asymptotical stability of the endemic equilibrium by autonomous convergence theorem. A numerical analysis is given to show the effectiveness of the main results.
Biomarkers of Mercury Exposure in the Amazon
Authors: Castro Nathália Santos Serrão de , Lima Marcelo de Oliveira
Published: April 2014

Mercury exposure in the Amazon has been studied since the 1980s decade and the assessment of human mercury exposure in the Amazon is difficult given that the natural occurrence of this metal is high and the concentration of mercury in biological samples of this population exceeds the standardized value of normality established by WHO. Few studies have focused on the discovery of mercury biomarkers in the region’s population. In this way, some studies have used genetics as well as immunological and cytogenetic tools in order to find a molecular biomarker for assessing the toxicological effect of mercury in the Amazonian population. Most of those studies focused attention on the relation between mercury exposure and autoimmunity and, because of that, they will be discussed in more detail. Here we introduce the general aspects involved with each biomarker that was studied in the region in order to contextualize the reader and add information about the Amazonian life style and health that may be considered for future studies. We hope that, in the future, the toxicological studies in this field use high technological tools, such as the next generation sequencing and proteomics skills, in order to comprehend basic questions regarding the metabolic route of mercury in populations that are under constant exposure, such as in the Amazon.
Role of Calcium Signaling in the Transcriptional Regulation of the Apicoplast Genome ofPlasmodium falciparum
Authors: Cheemadan Sabna , Ramadoss Ramya , Bozdech Zbynek
Published: April 2014

Calcium is a universal second messenger that plays an important role in regulatory processes in eukaryotic cells. To understand calcium-dependent signaling in malaria parasites, we analyzed transcriptional responses ofPlasmodium falciparumto two calcium ionophores (A23187 and ionomycin) that cause redistribution of intracellular calcium within the cytoplasm. While ionomycin induced a specific transcriptional response defined by up- or downregulation of a narrow set of genes, A23187 caused a developmental arrest in the schizont stage. In addition, we observed a dramatic decrease of mRNA levels of the transcripts encoded by the apicoplast genome during the exposure ofP. falciparumto both calcium ionophores. Neither of the ionophores caused any disruptions to the DNA replication or the overall apicoplast morphology. This suggests that the mRNA downregulation reflects direct inhibition of the apicoplast gene transcription. Next, we identify a nuclear encoded protein with a calcium binding domain (EF-hand) that is localized to the apicoplast. Overexpression of this protein (termed PfACBP1) inP. falciparumcells mediates an increased resistance to the ionophores which suggests its role in calcium-dependent signaling within the apicoplast. Our data indicate that theP. falciparumapicoplast requires calcium-dependent signaling that involves a novel protein PfACBP1.
OTHR Spectrum Reconstruction of Maneuvering Target with Compressive Sensing
Authors: Quan Yinghui , Zhang Lei , Li Yachao , Wang Hongxian , Xing Mengdao
Published: April 2014

High-frequency (HF) over-the-horizon radar (OTHR) works in a very complicated electromagnetic environment. It usually suffers performance degradation caused by transient interference. In this paper, we study the transient interference excision and full spectrum reconstruction of maneuvering targets. The segmental subspace projection (SP) approach is applied to suppress the clutter and locate the transient interference. After interference excision, the spectrum is reconstructed from incomplete measurements via compressive sensing (CS) by using a redundant Fourier-chirp dictionary. An improved orthogonal matching pursuit (IOMP) algorithm is developed to solve the sparse decomposition optimization. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Multiple Solutions to Fractional Difference Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Chen Huiqin , Cui Yaqiong , Zhao Xianglan
Published: April 2014

The following fractional difference boundary value problems▵νyt=-ft+ν-1,yt+ν-1,y(ν-2)=y(ν+b+1)=0are considered, where1<ν≤2is a real number and▵νy(t)is the standard Riemann-Liouville fractional difference. Based on the Krasnosel’skiǐ theorem and the Schauder fixed point theorem, we establish some conditions onfwhich are able to guarantee that this FBVP has at least two positive solutions and one solution, respectively. Our results significantly improve and generalize those in the literature. A number of examples are given to illustrate our main results.
Variations in KIR Genes: A Study in HIV-1 Serodiscordant Couples
Authors: Chavan Vijay R. , Chaudhari Deepali , Ahir Swati , Ansari Zakiya , Mehta Preeti , Mania-Pramanik Jayanti
Published: April 2014

Background. NK cells have anti-HIV activity mediated through killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs). The current prospective cohort study evaluated whether variation in KIR genes is associated with HIV infection in discordant couples (DCs), where one spouse remains seronegative (HSN) despite repeated exposure to the HIV.Methods. KIR was genotyped using PCR SSP. Viral load and CD4 counts were estimated using commercially available reagents. Data were analyzed using SPSS software.Results. Among the 47 DCs, HSN spouses had significantly (P=0.006) higher frequencies of KIR3DS1. Regression analysis revealed significant (P=0.009) association of KIR2DS1 with low viral load. KIR2DS4 variant was associated (P=0.032) with high viral load. Three pairs of KIR genes were in strong LD in HSNs and two pairs in HSPs. There were 60 KIR genotypes, and 16 are reported the first time in the Indian population. Exclusive genotypes were present either in HSPs (N=22, 11 unique genotypes) or in HSNs (n=27, 9 unique genotypes).Conclusions. This study highlights for the first time in the Indian population an association of KIR genes in HIV infection where presence of exclusive and unique genotypes indicates possible association with either HIV infection or with protection.
A Class of Sequences Defined by Weak Ideal Convergence and Musielak-Orlicz Function
Authors: Bakery Awad A.
Published: April 2014

We introduced the weak ideal convergence of new sequence spaces combining an infinite matrix of complex numbers and Musielak-Orlicz function over normed spaces. We also study some topological properties and inclusion relation between these spaces.
Fully Noncontact Wave Propagation Imaging in an Immersed Metallic Plate with a Crack
Authors: Lee Jung-Ryul , Jang Jae-Kyeong , Kong Cheol-Won
Published: May 2014

This study presents a noncontact sensing technique with ultrasonic wave propagation imaging algorithm, for damage visualization of liquid-immersed structures. An aluminum plate specimen (400 mm × 400 mm × 3 mm) with a 12 mm slit was immersed in water and in glycerin. A 532 nm Q-switched continuous wave laser is used at an energy level of 1.2 mJ to scan an area of 100 mm × 100 mm. A laser Doppler vibrometer is used as a noncontact ultrasonic sensor, which measures guided wave displacement at a fixed point. The tests are performed with two different cases of specimen: without water and filled with water and with glycerin. Lamb wave dispersion curves for the respective cases are calculated, to investigate the velocity-frequency relationship of each wave mode. Experimental propagation velocities of Lamb waves for different cases are compared with the theoretical dispersion curves. This study shows that the dispersion and attenuation of the Lamb wave is affected by the surrounding liquid, and the comparative experimental results are presented to verify it. In addition, it is demonstrated that the developed fully noncontact ultrasonic propagation imaging system is capable of damage sizing in submerged structures.
Effect of the Application of 1-Methylcyclopropene and Wax Emulsions on Proximate Analysis and Some Antioxidants of Soursop (Annona muricataL.)
Authors: Moreno-Hernández Cristina L. , Sáyago-Ayerdi Sonia G. , García-Galindo Hugo S. , Mata-Montes De Oca Miguel , Montalvo-González Efigenia
Published: April 2014

The effect of the application of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and wax emulsions, alone or combined, on composition analysis, vitamin C, polyphenols, and antioxidant capacity of soursop was evaluated. Fruits were stored as follows: at 25°C (control), and at 16°C: fruits sprayed with candelilla or flava emulsions, fruits treated with 1500 nL/L of 1-MCP (20°C, 12 h), and fruits treated with 1-MCP and then sprayed with emulsions. Fruits were allowed to ripen and the edible part was used for analysis. Only fruits stored at 16°C without 1-MCP showed visible symptoms of chilling injury. Fruits treated with 1-MCP combined with flava emulsion maintained in greater extent their vitamin C content, dietary fiber, total phenolics content, and antioxidant activity. The combination of 1-MCP and emulsions can be utilized in postharvest handling of soursop because this combination can preserve its nutritional composition and antioxidant activity.
On a Class of Variational-Hemivariational Inequalities Involving Upper Semicontinuous Set-Valued Mappings
Authors: Tang Guo-ji , Wang Zhong-bao , Zhang Hong-ling
Published: April 2014

This paper is devoted to the various coercivity conditions in order to guarantee existence of solutions and boundedness of the solution set for the variational-hemivariational inequalities involving upper semicontinuous operators. The results presented in this paper generalize and improve some known results.
Building Recognition on Subregion’s Multiscale Gist Feature Extraction and Corresponding Columns Information Based Dimensionality Reduction
Authors: Li Bin , Pang Wei , Liu Yuhao , Yu Xiangchun , Du Anan , Zhang Yecheng , Yu Zhezhou
Published: April 2014

In this paper, we proposed a new building recognition method named subregion’s multiscale gist feature (SM-gist) extraction and corresponding columns information based dimensionality reduction (CCI-DR). Our proposed building recognition method is presented as a two-stage model: in the first stage, a building image is divided into 4 × 5 subregions, and gist vectors are extracted from these regions individually. Then, we combine these gist vectors into a matrix with relatively high dimensions. In the second stage, we proposed CCI-DR to project the high dimensional manifold matrix to low dimensional subspace. Compared with the previous building recognition method the advantages of our proposed method are that (1) gist features extracted by SM-gist have the ability to adapt to nonuniform illumination and that (2) CCI-DR can address the limitation of traditional dimensionality reduction methods, which convert gist matrices into vectors and thus mix the corresponding gist vectors from different feature maps. Our building recognition method is evaluated on the Sheffield buildings database, and experiments show that our method can achieve satisfactory performance.
Inflammatory Response in Patients under Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery and Clinical Implications: A Review of the Relevance of Dexmedetomidine Use
Authors: Bulow Neusa Maria Heinzmann , Colpo Elisângela , Duarte Marta Frescura , Correa Eduardo Francisco Mafassioly , Schlosser Rochelle Silveira , Lauda Anelise , Kade Ige Joseph , Rocha João Batista Teixeira
Published: April 2014

Despite the fact that coronary artery bypass grafting surgery (CABG) with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) prolongs life and reduces symptoms in patients with severe coronary artery diseases, these benefits are accompanied by increased risks. Morbidity associated with cardiopulmonary bypass can be attributed to the generalized inflammatory response induced by blood-xenosurfaces interactions during extracorporeal circulation and the ischemia/reperfusion implications, including exacerbated inflammatory response resembling the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). The use of specific anesthetic agents with anti-inflammatory activity can modulate the deleterious inflammatory response. Consequently, anti-inflammatory anesthetics may accelerate postoperative recovery and better outcomes than classical anesthetics. It is known that the stress response to surgery can be attenuated by sympatholytic effects caused by activation of central (α-)2-adrenergic receptor, leading to reductions in blood pressure and heart rate, and more recently, that they can have anti-inflammatory properties. This paper discusses the clinical significance of the dexmedetomidine use, a selective (α-)2-adrenergic agonist, as a coadjuvant in general anesthesia. Actually, dexmedetomidine use is not in anesthetic routine, but this drug can be considered a particularly promising agent in perioperative multiple organ protection.
The Urethral Rhabdosphincter, Levator Ani Muscle, and Perineal Membrane: A Review
Authors: Hinata Nobuyuki , Murakami Gen
Published: April 2014

Detailed knowledge of the anatomy of the rhabdosphincter and adjacent tissues is mandatory during urologic surgery to ensure reliable oncologic and functional outcomes. To characterize the levator ani (LA) function for the urethral sphincter, we described connective tissue morphology between the LA and urethral rhabdosphincter. The interface tissue between the LA and rhabdosphincter area in males contained abundant irregularly arrayed elastic fibers and smooth muscles. The male rhabdosphincter was positioned alongside the LA to divide the elevation force and not in-series along the axis of LA contraction. The male perineal membrane was thin but solid and extends along the inferior margin or bottom of the rhabdosphincter area. In contrast, the female rhabdosphincter, including the compressor urethrae and urethrovaginal sphincter muscles, was embedded in the elastic fiber mesh that is continuous with the thick, multilaminar perineal membrane. The inferomedial edge of the female LA was attached to the upper surface of the perineal membrane and not directly attached to the rhabdosphincter. We presented new diagrams showing the gender differences in topographical anatomy of the LA and rhabdosphincter.
Prospective Observational Study of Single-Site Multiport Per-umbilical Laparoscopic Endosurgery versus Conventional Multiport Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Critical Appraisal of a Unique Umbilical Approach
Authors: Jategaonkar Priyadarshan Anand , Yadav Sudeep Pradeep
Published: April 2014

Purpose. This prospective observational study compares an innovative approach of Single-Site Multi-Port Per-umbilical Laparoscopic Endo-surgery (SSMPPLE) cholecystectomy with the gold standard—Conventional Multi-port Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (CMLC)—to assess the feasibility and efficacy of the former.Methods. In all, 646 patients were studied. SSMPPLE cholecystectomy utilized three ports inserted through three independent mini-incisions at the umbilicus. Only the day-to-day rigid laparoscopic instruments were used in all cases. The SSMPPLE cholecystectomy group had 320 patients and the CMLC group had 326 patients. The outcomes were statistically compared.Results. SSMPPLE cholecystectomy had average operative time of 43.8 min and blood loss of 9.4 mL. Their duration of hospitalization was 1.3 days (range, 1–5). Six patients (1.9%) of this group were converted to CMLC. Eleven patients had controlled gallbladder perforations at dissection. The Visual Analogue Scores for pain on postoperative days 0 and 7, the operative time, and the scar grades were significantly better for SSMPPLE than CMLC. However, umbilical sepsis and seroma outcomes were similar. We had no bile-duct injuries or port-site hernias in this study.Conclusion. SSMPPLE cholecystectomy approach complies with the principles of laparoscopic triangulation; it seems feasible and safe method of minimally invasive cholecystectomy. Overall, it has a potential to emerge as an economically viable alternative to single-port surgery.
Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Nose Complicated with Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis
Authors: Swaminath D. , Narayanan R. , Orellana-Barrios M. A. , Temple B.
Published: April 2014

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rapidly progressive life threatening bacterial infection of the skin, the subcutaneous tissue, and the fascia. We present a case of necrotizing fasciitis involving the nose complicated by cavernous sinus thrombosis. Few cases of septic cavernous sinus thrombosis have been reported to be caused by cellulitis of the face but necrotizing fasciitis of the nose is rare. It is very important to recognize the early signs of cavernous thrombosis. Treatment for septic cavernous sinus thrombosis is controversial but early use of empirical antibiotics is imperative.
A Dataset of Experimental HLA‐B*2705 Peptide Binding Affinities
Authors: Walshe Valerie A. , Hattotuwagama Channa K. , Doytchinova Irini A. , Flower Darren R.
Published: April 2014

T‐cell epitopes form the basis of many vaccines, diagnostics, and reagents. Current methods for the in silico identification of T‐cell epitopes rely, in the main, on the accurate quantitative prediction of peptide‐Major Histocompatibility Complex (pMHC) affinity using data‐driven computational approaches. Here, we describe a dataset of experimentally determined pMHC binding affinities for the problematic human class I allele HLA‐B*2705. Using an in‐house, FACS‐based, MHC stabilization assay, we measured binding of 223 peptides. This dataset includes both nonbinding and binding peptides, with measured affinities (expressed as −log10 of the half‐maximal binding level) ranging from 1.2 to 7.4. This dataset should provide a useful independent benchmark for new and existing methods for predicting peptide binding to HLA‐B*2705.
Global Period-Doubling Bifurcation of Quadratic Fractional Second Order Difference Equation
Authors: Kalabušić Senada , Kulenović M. R. S. , Mehuljić M.
Published: April 2014

We investigate the local stability and the global asymptotic stability of the difference equationxn+1=αxn2+βxnxn-1+γxn-1/Axn2+Bxnxn-1+Cxn-1,n=0,1,…with nonnegative parameters and initial conditions such thatAxn2+Bxnxn-1+Cxn-1>0, for alln≥0. We obtain the local stability of the equilibrium for all values of parameters and give some global asymptotic stability results for some values of the parameters. We also obtain global dynamics in the special case, whereβ=B=0, in which case we show that such equation exhibits a global period doubling bifurcation.
Validation of the CPAP Habit Index-5: A Tool to Understand Adherence to CPAP Treatment in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Broström Anders , Nilsen Per , Gardner Benjamin , Johansson Peter , Ulander Martin , Fridlund Bengt , Årestedt Kristofer
Published: April 2014

Long-term adherence to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is low among patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The potential role of “habit” in sustaining adherence to CPAP use has not been studied. This study aimed to establish the relevance of habit to CPAP adherence, via validation of an adaptation of the Self-Report Habit Index (the CPAP Habit Index-5; CHI-5). Analyses focused on the homogeneity, reliability, and factor structure of the CHI-5 and, in line with theoretical predictions, its utility as a predictor of long-term CPAP adherence in middle-aged patients with OSA. A prospective longitudinal design was used. 117 patients with objectively verified OSA intended for CPAP treatment were recruited. Data was collected via clinical examinations, respiratory recordings, questionnaires, and CPAP devices at baseline, 2 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months. The CHI-5 showed satisfactory homogeneity interitem correlations (0.42–0.93), item-total correlations (0.58–0.91), and reliability (α= 0.92). CHI-5 data at 6 months showed a one-factor solution and predicted 63% of variance in total CPAP use hours after 12 months. Based on the satisfactory measurement properties and the high amount of CPAP use variance it explained, the CHI-5 can be seen as a useful tool in clinical practice.
Crystal Structure and Molecular Mechanics Modelling of 2-(4-Amino-3-benzyl-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydrothiazol-5-yl)benzoxazole
Authors: Mabied Ahmed F. , Shalaby Elsayed M. , Zayed Hamdia A. , El-Kholy Esmat , Farag Ibrahim S. A.
Published: April 2014

The crystal structure of the title compound, 2-(4-amino-3-benzyl-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydrothiazol-5-yl)benzoxazole, was determined. The crystal has P1 space group and triclinic system with unit cell parameters a = 5.174(3) Å, b = 6.411(6) Å, c = 12.369(10) Å, α = 86.021(4)°, β = 84.384(5)°, and γ = 77.191(5)°. The structure consists of benzoxazole group connected with benzyl via thiazole (attached with amino and thione). Benzoxazole and thiazole rings are almost planar (maximum deviation at C1, −0.013(3) Å, and C10, 0.0041(3) Å, resp.). The phenyl ring is nearly perpendicular to both thiazole and benzoxazole rings. A network of intermolecular hydrogen bonds and intermolecular interactions stabilizes the structure, forming parallel layers. The molecular geometry obtained using single crystal analysis is discussed along with results of the molecular mechanics modeling (MM), and the results showed the same cis conformation between benzoxazole nitrogen atom and the amino group.
Matching Criterion of Submersible Mixer and Pool
Authors: Tian Fei , Shi Weidong , Jiang Hua
Published: April 2014

Matching problem of submersible mixer and pool has been a difficult problem. Based on in-depth study of the flow field characteristics of a submersible mixer, combined with fluid mechanics theory, the matching problem is discussed in this paper. Calculation formulas of the axial advance distance x and effective stirring radius R are obtained; meanwhile the critical dimension of matched pool is proposed: length × width × height = xv0.3 × 2 k1 Rv0.3 × 2 k2 Rv0.3, and calculation formula of the critical impeller diameter Dcritical is obtained. They are theoretical foundation of matching criterion between pool and submersible mixer. Matching relationship of pool and submersible mixer is widely used in engineering practice with the help of experiment and CFD numerical simulation, and it can provide significant help for the selection of a submersible mixer.
Splanchnicectomy for Pancreatic Cancer Pain
Authors: Masuda Toshiro , Kuramoto Masafumi , Shimada Shinya , Ikeshima Satoshi , Yamamoto Kenichiro , Nakamura Kenichi , Baba Hideo
Published: April 2014

Persistent pain is a serious problem that often contributes to a poor quality of life in pancreatic cancer patients. Medical management by opioid analgesics is often accompanied by side effects and incomplete pain relief. A celiac plexus block is a simple treatment which relieves pain, but the procedure demands a certain degree of proficiency and the duration of the effects obtained can be rather limited. Transhiatal bilateral splanchnicectomy achieves a certain denervation of splanchnic nerves, but it requires a laparotomy. Unilateral thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to cause definite denervation. Bilateral thoracoscopic splanchnicectomy is recommended for unsatisfactory cases or recurrent pain occurring after the initial unilateral splanchnicectomy. It is important to select the most suitable treatment depending on patients’ actual medical state and the predicted outcomes.
Effect of Preventive Hormonal Therapy on Breast Density: A Systematic Qualitative Review
Authors: Lienart Virginie , Carly Birgit , Kang Xin , Guzy Laura , Sajovitz Anna-Maria , Liebens Fabienne
Published: April 2014

Breast density (BD) is recognized as one of the strongest independent risk factors of breast cancer (BC). Unlike most other risk factors, BD can be modified, suggesting that it may be a biomarker for preventive interventions. We conducted a qualitative systematic review to address the effect of preventive hormonal therapy on BD. Among the 26 relevant studies, 10 assessed the effect of tamoxifen on BD (TAM:n=2 877), 9 that of raloxifene (RLX:n=1 544), and 7 that of aromatase inhibitors (AI:n=416). The studies were characterized by a large heterogeneity in designs and in methods of BD measurement. BD could be reduced by TAM (10 studies/10). However, the effect of RLX and AI on BD remains unclear due to conflicting results between studies. Consequently, it is crucial to develop practical, accurate, and reproducible methods of measurement in order to be able to compare the effect of preventive hormonal agents on BD and to determine whether change in BD can be used as a predictor of response to therapy.
Electroacupuncture Ameliorates Acute Lung Injury through Promoting Gastrointestinal Motility in Rats with Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Guo Hui , Zhu Shi-Feng , Zhang Rong-Rong , Zhao Xian-Lin , Wan Mei-Hua , Tang Wen-Fu
Published: April 2014

Objective. Gastrointestinal disfunction and acute lung injury (ALI) were common in acute pancreatitis (AP). The effect of electro‐acupuncture (EA) on gastrointestinal motility and ALI in rats with AP was investigated to verify the theory of “lung and large intestine are interior exteriorly related” in traditional Chinese medicine. Methods. Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into the normal group, model group, and EA group. AP model was established by three injections of 20% L‐arginine at 1 h intervals. EA were applied to bilateral ST‐25 and ST‐36 for 30 minutes twice a day after modeling for 3 days. Arterial blood, pancreas, lung, and intestinal tissues were collected for detecting the inflammatory factors and histopathology. Intestinal propulsion rate (IPR) was also measured at 72 h. Results. EA treatment improved IPR and increased CCK‐8 level compared with model group (P < 0.05). It lowered the serum levels of TNF‐α and IL‐6 and increased the level of IL‐4 with no effect on IL‐10. EA treatment reduced serum vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) level in the lung and the pathologic scores of pancreas, lung and intestine were decreased (P < 0.05). Conclusion. EA treatment could promote gastrointestinal motility through inhibiting VIP, and promoting CCK expression and regulate pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory mediators to ameliorate ALI in AP.
Ethnobotanical Study of Herbaceous Flora along an Altitudinal Gradient in Bharmour Forest Division, District Chamba of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Thakur Kehar S. , Kumar Munesh , Bawa Rajan , Bussmann Rainer W.
Published: April 2014

The present ethnobotanical study was carried out in Holi (Deol, Kut, Dal, and Lahaud Dhar) forest range and in Bharmor (Seri, Bharmour, Malkauta, Bharmani, Harsar, Dhancho, Sundrasi, Gorikund, and Manimahesh) forest range to obtain information on the plants used by the local inhabitants for several purposes. A total of 54 plants were recorded in this study. The plants are employed to treat simple diseases (cough, cold, fever, and burns) and some serious diseases (typhoid, jaundice, and kidney disease). Some of the plants are also used as incense for religious ceremonies and several other daily needs. But due to absence of scientific monitoring of plants, their cultivation, harvesting, and management techniques as well as sustainable use and lack of awareness of social factors, the availability of valuable plant resources is decreasing at an alarming rate. In addition, the indigenous knowledge regarding the use of lesser‐known plants of this region is also rapidly declining. Therefore, the documentation of plant resources is a necessary step towards the goal of raising awareness in local communities about the importance of these plants and their further conservation.
Consensus Achievement of Decentralized Sensors Using Adapted Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Kim Hyunseok , Chang Seongju , Kim Jinsul
Published: April 2014

This paper explores the possibility of enhancing consensus achievement of decentralized sensors by establishing cooperative behavior between sensor agents. To these ends, a novel particle swarm optimization framework to achieve robust consensus of decentralized sensors is devised to distribute sensing information via local fusing with neighbors rather than through centralized control; the new framework showed a 16.5 percent improvement in consensus achievement as compared to the classic majority rule method. Noteworthy enhancements in consensus achievement are also pertinent to the comparable situation of decentralized sensor systems.
Nodal Solutions for Some Second-Order Semipositone Integral Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Lu Huiqin , Wang Yang , Liu Yansheng
Published: April 2014

Using bifurcation techniques, we first prove a global bifurcation theorem for nonlinear second-order semipositone integral boundary value problems. Then the existence and multiplicity of nodal solutions of the above problems are obtained. Finally, an example is worked out to illustrate our main results.
A Dynamic Model of the Tragedy of the Commons in Marketing-Intensive Industries
Authors: Kim Dohoon
Published: April 2014

This study provides a dynamic model and analyzes its process that may plunge the business ecosystem into ToC (the Tragedy of the Commons). When developing the model, we have in mind some industries where the marketing competition to secure a large installed base is intense. The social commerce industry is a representative example of this type of industries, but the scope of this study is not limited to the industry. We first introduce a previous study focusing on the static Nash equilibrium, and then present an extended version of the basic model in a dynamic perspective. According to our analyses on the dynamic equilibria together with their stability, there may be a unique interior equilibrium, but it is highly likely unstable. In addition, possible (near) boundary equilibria are also unstable for a wide range of parameter values. We also conduct some numerical experiments and discover cycles as solutions to some particular instances. Since those cycles contain the ToC traps, a policy measure or regulation may need to be employed. Our approach and results will help to figure out a clue to escape from the ToC trap, thereby shedding new light on the sustainable growth of the business ecosystem, which is prone to excessive marketing competition.
Robust Stabilization for a Class of Uncertain Nonlinear Systems via a Novel Hybrid Control Applicable to Mechanical Systems
Authors: Sun Yeong-Jeu
Published: April 2014

An important consideration in control system design is that of model uncertainty. Besides, systems with mixed uncertainties, chaotic vibrations, and input nonlinearities are not easily stabilized and traditional control schemes for linear systems are not always effective. Therefore, in this paper, we will solve two problems, first searching a novel hybrid control methodology to achieve the practical stabilization for uncertain systems with mixed uncertainties and second calculating the guaranteed exponential convergence rate with the convergence radius. The applicability of the main results is demonstrated by a tracking controller design for a class of uncertain nonlinear mass-damper-spring systems with mixed uncertainties, chaotic vibrations, and input nonlinearities.
FDA-Approved Natural Polymers for Fast Dissolving Tablets
Authors: Alam Md Tausif , Parvez Nayyar , Sharma Pramod Kumar
Published: April 2014

Oral route is the most preferred route for administration of different drugs because it is regarded as safest, most convenient, and economical route. Fast disintegrating tablets are very popular nowadays as they get dissolved or facilely disintegrated in mouth within few seconds of administration without the need of water. The disadvantages of conventional dosage form, especially dysphagia (arduousness in swallowing), in pediatric and geriatric patients have been overcome by fast dissolving tablets. Natural materials have advantages over synthetic ones since they are chemically inert, non-toxic, less expensive, biodegradable and widely available. Natural polymers like locust bean gum, banana powder, mango peel pectin, Mangifera indica gum, and Hibiscus rosa-sinenses mucilage ameliorate the properties of tablet and utilized as binder, diluent, and superdisintegrants increase the solubility of poorly water soluble drug, decrease the disintegration time, and provide nutritional supplement. Natural polymers are obtained from the natural origin and they are cost efficacious, nontoxic, biodegradable, eco-friendly, devoid of any side effect, renewable, and provide nutritional supplement. It is proved from the studies that natural polymers are more safe and efficacious than the synthetic polymers. The aim of the present article is to study the FDA-approved natural polymers utilized in fast dissolving tablets.
Asymptotic Estimates of the Solution of a Restoration Problem with an Initial Jump
Authors: Nurgabyl Duisebek
Published: April 2014

The asymptotic behavior of the solution of the singularly perturbed boundary value problemLεy=htλ,Liy+σiλ=ai,i=1,n+1̅is examined. The derivations prove that a unique pair(ỹt,λ̃ε,ε,λ̃ε)exists, in which componentsy(t,λ̃ε,ε)andλ̃(ε)satisfy the equationLεy=h(t)λand boundary value conditionsLiy+σiλ=ai,i=1,n+1̅. The issues of limit transfer of the perturbed problem solution to the unperturbed problem solution as a small parameter approaches zero and the existence of the initial jump phenomenon are studied. This research is conducted in two stages. In the first stage, the Cauchy function and boundary functions are introduced. Then, on the basis of the introduced Cauchy function and boundary functions, the solution of the restoration problemLεy=htλ,Liy+σiλ=ai,i=1,n+1̅is obtained from the position of the singularly perturbed problem with the initial jump. Through this process, the formula of the initial jump and the asymptotic estimates of the solution of the considered boundary value problem are identified.