bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bubble-flux
Authors: Yang Hailong , Breslow Alex , Mars Jason , Tang Lingjia
Published: July 2013

Ensuring the
quality of service
(QoS) for latency-sensitive applications while allowing co-locations of multiple applications on servers is critical for improving server utilization and reducing cost in modern warehouse-scale computers (WSCs). Recent work relies on static profiling to precisely predict the QoS degradation that results from performance interference among co-running applications to increase the number of "safe" co-locations. However, these static profiling techniques have several critical limitations: 1) a priori knowledge of all workloads is required for profiling, 2) it is difficult for the prediction to capture or adapt to phase or load changes of applications, and 3) the prediction technique is limited to only two co-running applications.

To address all of these limitations, we present
Bubble-Flux
, an integrated dynamic interference measurement and online QoS management mechanism to provide accurate QoS control and maximize server utilization. Bubble-Flux uses a
Dynamic Bubble
to probe servers in real time to measure the instantaneous pressure on the shared hardware resources and precisely predict how the QoS of a latency-sensitive job will be affected by potential co-runners. Once "safe" batch jobs are selected and mapped to a server, Bubble-Flux uses an
Online Flux Engine
to continuously monitor the QoS of the latency-sensitive application and control the execution of batch jobs to adapt to dynamic input, phase, and load changes to deliver satisfactory QoS. Batch applications remain in a state of flux throughout execution. Our results show that the utilization improvement achieved by Bubble-Flux is up to 2.2x better than the prior static approach.
Whare-map
Authors: Mars Jason , Tang Lingjia
Published: July 2013

Modern "warehouse scale computers" (WSCs) continue to be embraced as homogeneous computing platforms. However, due to frequent machine replacements and upgrades, modern WSCs are in fact composed of diverse commodity microarchitectures and machine configurations. Yet, current WSCs are architected with the assumption of homogeneity, leaving a potentially significant performance opportunity unexplored.

In this paper, we expose and quantify the performance impact of the "homogeneity assumption" for modern production WSCs using industry-strength large-scale web-service workloads. In addition, we argue for, and evaluate the benefits of, a
heterogeneity-aware
WSC using commercial web-service production workloads including Google's web-search. We also identify key factors impacting the available performance opportunity when exploiting heterogeneity and introduce a new metric,
opportunity factor
, to quantify an application's sensitivity to the heterogeneity in a given WSC. To exploit heterogeneity in "homogeneous" WSCs, we propose "
Whare-Map
," the
W
SC
H
eterogeneity Aw
are
Map
per that leverages already in-place continuous profiling subsystems found in production environments. When employing "
Whare-Map
", we observe a cluster-wide performance improvement of 15% on average over heterogeneity--oblivious job placement and up to an 80% improvement for web-service applications that are particularly sensitive to heterogeneity.
Deconfigurable microprocessor architectures for silicon debug acceleration
Authors: Foutris Nikos , Gizopoulos Dimitris , Vera Xavier , Gonzalez Antonio
Published: July 2013

The share of silicon debug in the overall microprocessor chips development cycle is rapidly expanding due to the ever growing design complexity and the limited efficiency of pre-silicon validation methods. Massive application of short random test programs on the prototype microprocessor chips is one of the most effective parts of silicon debug. However, a major bottleneck and source of "noise" in this phase is that large numbers of random test programs fail due to the same or similar design bugs. This redundant behavior adds long delays in the debug flow since each failing random program must be separately examined, although it does not usually bring new debug information. The development of effective techniques that detect dominant modes of failure among random programs and triage them into common categories eliminate redundant debug sessions and significantly boost silicon debug.

We propose the employment of deconfigurable microprocessor architectures along with self-checking random test programs to reduce the redundant debug sessions and make the triage step of silicon debug more efficient. Several hardware components of high performance microprocessor micro-architectures can be deconfigured while keeping the functional completeness of the design. This is the property we exploit in our silicon debug methodology for the triaging of random test programs. We support our methodology by a hardware mechanism dedicated to silicon debug that groups the failing test programs into categories depending on the microprocessor hardware components that need to be deconfigured for a random test program to be correctly executed. Identical deconfiguration sequences for multiple test programs indicate the existence of redundancy among them and group them together. This grouping significantly reduces the number of failing tests that must be debugged afterwards. Detailed evaluation of the method on an x86 microprocessor demonstrates its efficiency in reducing the debug sessions and thus in accelerating silicon debug.
Exercise, GLUT4, and Skeletal Muscle Glucose Uptake
Authors: Richter Erik A. , Hargreaves Mark
Published: July 2013

Glucose is an important fuel for contracting muscle, and normal glucose metabolism is vital for health. Glucose enters the muscle cell via facilitated diffusion through the GLUT4 glucose transporter which translocates from intracellular storage depots to the plasma membrane and T-tubules upon muscle contraction. Here we discuss the current understanding of how exercise-induced muscle glucose uptake is regulated. We briefly discuss the role of glucose supply and metabolism and concentrate on GLUT4 translocation and the molecular signaling that sets this in motion during muscle contractions. Contraction-induced molecular signaling is complex and involves a variety of signaling molecules including AMPK, Ca2+, and NOS in the proximal part of the signaling cascade as well as GTPases, Rab, and SNARE proteins and cytoskeletal components in the distal part. While acute regulation of muscle glucose uptake relies on GLUT4 translocation, glucose uptake also depends on muscle GLUT4 expression which is increased following exercise. AMPK and CaMKII are key signaling kinases that appear to regulate GLUT4 expression via the HDAC4/5-MEF2 axis and MEF2-GEF interactions resulting in nuclear export of HDAC4/5 in turn leading to histone hyperacetylation on the GLUT4 promoter and increased GLUT4 transcription. Exercise training is the most potent stimulus to increase skeletal muscle GLUT4 expression, an effect that may partly contribute to improved insulin action and glucose disposal and enhanced muscle glycogen storage following exercise training in health and disease.
Endothelin-1 Levels in Scleroderma Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cozzani Emanuele , Javor Sanja , Laborai Erika , Drosera Massimo , Parodi Aurora
Published: July 2013

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent endogenous vasoconstrictor, which mediates vascular wall cells proliferation, fibrosis, and inflammation through two types of ET-1 receptors (ET-A and ET-B). In our retrospective study the serum levels of ET-1 in 18 systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients with and without digital ulcers (DUs) were assessed to observe possible correlation between the levels of ET-1, the evolution of SSc, and the therapy with an ET-1 antagonist (bosentan). In all our patients, the levels of ET-1 were found higher than normal range and correlate with the severity of the disease. Furthermore we also observed that in patients without DUs the levels of ET-1 were higher and did not correlate with new DUs development. In conclusion, the levels of ET-1 in our studied patients do not correlate with the possible development of DUs. The reduction of ET-1 levels in DUs patients in therapy with bosentan confirms the efficacy of this molecule both for treatment and prevention of digital ulcers. The inhibition of ET-A receptor by its antagonist may activate the opposite ET-B receptors, with well-known function ET-1 degradation and reducing of ET-1 serum level as confirmed in our pilot study.
Association Study of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms inXRCC1Gene with Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Chinese Han Population
Authors: Bi Jingwang , Zhong Chen , Li Kainan , Chu Huili , Wang Baocheng
Published: July 2013

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequently causing cancer-related deaths worldwide. Previous evidence suggests that the X-ray repair cross-complementing group 1 gene (XRCC1) is an important candidate gene for influencing the risk of HCC. The aim of this study was to assess the association ofXRCC1genetic polymorphisms with the risk of HCC in Chinese Han population. A total of 1314 subjects, including 651 HCC patients and 663 healthy controls, were enrolled in this case-control study. Two genetic variants (c.1254C>T and c.1517G>C) inXRCC1gene were genotyped by created restriction site-polymerase chain reaction (CRS-PCR) and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods. Our data indicated that the allele and genotype frequencies of these two genetic variants were statistical difference in HCC cases and healthy controls. Association analyses suggested that these two genetic variants were statistically associated with the increased risk of HCC in all genetic models (for c.1254C>T, TT versus CC: OR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.61–3.28; CT versus CC: OR = 1.32, 95% CI 1.05–1.67; TT/CT versus CC: OR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.20–1.86; TT versus CT/CC: OR = 2.00, 95% CI 1.43–2.80; T versus C: OR = 1.47, 95% CI 1.25–1.73; for c.1517G>C, CC versus GG: OR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.34–2.69; GC versus GG: OR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.24–1.97; CC/GC versus GG: OR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.31–2.03; CC versus GC/GG: OR = 1.52, 95% CI 1.10–2.11; C versus G: OR = 1.45, 95% CI 1.23–1.70). The allele-T of c.1254C>T and allele-C of c.1517G>C genetic variants may contribute to HCC susceptibility in Chinese Han population.
Myoepithelial Carcinoma of the Breast Treated with Surgery and Chemotherapy
Authors: Endo Yumi , Sugiura Hiroshi , Yamashita Hiroko , Takahashi Satoru , Yoshimoto Nobuyasu , Iwasa Mai , Asano Tomoko , Toyama Tatsuya
Published: July 2013

Myoepithelial carcinoma (malignant myoepithelioma) of the breast is a rare tumor, for which only a limited number of reports have been published. Most of the reports emphasized diagnosis and pathology but not biological behavior and treatment. We report a 61-year-old patient with breast myoepithelial carcinoma who developed locoregional and distant metastases and received many chemotherapy regimens. She presented with an elastic hard mass of the left breast. Breast conserving surgery was performed as part of both diagnosis and treatment. From the results of histological and immunohistochemical examinations, this case was considered to be a myoepithelial carcinoma. Fifteen months after the completion of adjuvant radiotherapy, distant metastasis of the left parasternal lymph node metastasis developed. She was treated by further excision and received a total of four regimens of chemotherapy including a combination of doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide. She received chemotherapy for 20 months after the diagnosis of metastasis.
Orthodontic Elastic Embedded in Gingiva for 7 Years
Authors: Tandon Shruti , Ahad Abdul , Kaur Arundeep , Faraz Farrukh , Chaudhary Zainab
Published: July 2013

Dental materials especially orthodontic elastics often get embedded in gingival tissues due to iatrogenic factors. If retained for a long time, inflammatory response starts as asymptomatic crestal bone loss and may progress to severe periodontal abscess. Unsupported orthodontic elastics used for diastema closure may result in exfoliation of teeth, while elastic separators may get embedded in interdental gingiva if banding is performed without removing it. These cases of negligence are detrimental for survival of affected teeth. This paper highlights a case of orthodontic elastic embedded in interproximal gingiva of a 23-year-old healthy female for 7 years after completion of fixed orthodontic treatment. Surprisingly, there was no clinical sign of inflammation around elastic band and it was removed easily without any local anaesthesia. However, mild crestal bone loss was observed on periapical radiograph. The gingiva healed completely after sub gingival debridement.
Hydrogenic‐Donor Impurity Binding Energy Dependence of the Electric Field in GaAs/AlxGa1−xAs Quantum Rings
Authors: Wang Guangxin , Duan Xiuzhi , Chen Wei
Published: July 2013

Using a variational method with two‐parameter trial wave function and the effective mass approximation, the binding energy of a donor impurity in GaAs/AlxGa1−xAs cylindrical quantum ring (QR) subjected to an external field is calculated. It is shown that the donor impurity binding energy is highly dependent on the QR structure parameters (radial thickness and height), impurity position, and external electric field. The binding energy increases inchmeal as the QR parameters (radial thickness and height) decrease until a maximum value for a central impurity and then begins to drop quickly. The applied electric field can significantly modify the spread of electronic wave function in the QR and shift electronic wave function from the donor position and then leads to binding energy changes. In addition, results for the binding energies of a hydrogenic donor impurity as functions of the impurity position and applied electric field are also presented.
Oscillatory and Asymptotic Properties on a Class of Third Nonlinear Dynamic Equations with Damping Term on Time Scales
Authors: Feng Qinghua , Qin Huizeng
Published: July 2013

We establish some new oscillatory and asymptotic criteria for a class of third-order nonlinear dynamic equations with damping term on time scales. The established results on one hand extend some known results in the literature on the other hand unify continuous and discrete analysis. For illustrating the validity of the established results, we also present some applications for them.
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Associated with Antiepileptic Drugs and Cranial Radiation Therapy
Authors: Elazzazy Shereen , Abu Hassan Taghrid , El Seid Ashraf , Jacob Cicy Mary
Published: July 2013

Case reports on the development of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) associated with concurrent administration of phenytoin with cranial radiation therapy (Ahmed (2004), Criton et al. (1997), and Rzany et al. (1996)), but reports about erythema multiforme, which can develop in patients treated with levetiracetam and cranial irradiation, are very limited. This paper presents evidence that TEN may be induced by concurrent use of radiation with both phenytoin and levetiracetam. Our case is a 42-year-old male patient, a case of gliosarcoma who developed purpuric dermatitis associated with phenytoin when combined with cranial radiation therapy; although phenytoin was discontinued and switched to levetiracetam, the patient had more severe symptoms of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) on levetiracetam; the patient improved with aggressive symptom management, discontinuation of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), and holding radiotherapy. Although TEN is a rare toxicity, physicians should pay a special attention to the monitoring of brain tumor patients on antiepileptic prophylaxis during cranial irradiation; furthermore, patients should be counselled to notify their physicians if they develop any new or unusual symptoms.
Insight into Equilibrium and Kinetics of the Binding of Cadmium Ions on Radiation-Modified Straw from Oryza sativa
Authors: Ali Sana Zulfiqar , Athar Makshoof , Farooq Umar , Salman Muhammad
Published: July 2013

The present study reports the chemical modification of agricultural waste (rice straw) with urea using microwave radiation and the efficiency evaluation of this modified rice straw for the adsorption of a toxic heavy metal, cadmium. The elemental analysis of urea modified rice straw affirmed urea grafting on rice straw, and FTIR spectra of chemically benign modified adsorbent showed the presence of hydroxyl, carbonyl, and amino functional groups. Effects of process parameters (adsorbent dosage, contact time, agitation speed, pH, and temperature) were studied in batch mode. Parameters were optimized for the equilibrium study, and adsorption mechanism was elucidated using five mathematical models (Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Harkin-Jura, and Dubinin-Radushkevich). Binding of Cd(II) ions on modified adsorbent followed Langmuir model, and the maximum uptake capacity was found to be 20.70 mg g−1. Kinetic modeling was done using six different kinetic models. The process was considered physisorption according to the obtained activation energy value. Thermodynamic parameters confirmed the process to be favorable and feasible. Exothermic nature of adsorption of Cd(II) ions on urea modified rice straw was confirmed by the negative value of ΔH°.
Purulent Cutaneous Fistula: As the First Symptom of the Late Aortic Stent-Graft Infection—A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ziaja Damian , Biolik Grzegorz , Chudek Jerzy , Ziaja Krzysztof
Published: July 2013

Purpose. Aortic stent-graft infection with fistula formation is a rare complication with high mortality rate when treated surgically by stent-graft removal. We report a case of a patient with aortic stent-graft infection, prosthetic-duodenal, and prosthetic-cutaneous fistulas operated without the removal of an infected prosthesis and ineffectively tailored antibiotic therapy.Case Report. A 66-year-old patient with high cardiovascular risk and endovascular stent-graft implantation developed a symptomatic infection of the aortic stent graft 42 months after procedure. It was manifested by iliolumbar muscle abscess and two fistulas: prosthetic cutaneous and prosthetic duodenal. The prosthetic-duodenal fistula was excised and separated from the prosthesis. The perforation within the duodenum was closed in layers. Iliolumbar abscess was removed and drainage was effected .The stent graft was left. The patient received tailored antibiotic therapy. He was readmitted to hospital after 4 weeks with symptoms of infection and leakage of pus discharge in the lumbar area. Despite the antibiotic therapy, the total parenteral nutrition of the patient’s clinical status and malnutrition deteriorated and he died of cardiac arrest.Conclusion. The presented case confirms that leaving off of the infected stent graft in the patient with severe comorbidity and treated with a tailored antibiotic therapy may not be effective.
Mechanisms Underlying the Antiproliferative and Prodifferentiative Effects of Psoralen on Adult Neural Stem Cells via DNA Microarray
Authors: Ning You , Huang Jian-Hua , Xia Shi-Jin , Bian Qin , Chen Yang , Zhang Xin-Min , Dong Jing-Cheng , Shen Zi-Yin
Published: July 2013

Adult neural stem cells (NSCs) persist throughout life to replace mature cells that are lost during turnover, disease, or injury. The investigation of NSC creates novel treatments for central nervous system (CNS) injuries and neurodegenerative disorders. The plasticity and reparative potential of NSC are regulated by different factors, which are critical for neurological regenerative medicine research. We investigated the effects of Psoralen, which is the mature fruit ofPsoralea corylifolia L., on NSC behaviors and the underlying mechanisms. The self-renewal and proliferation of NSC were examined. We detected neuron- and/or astrocyte-specific markers using immunofluorescence and Western blotting, which could evaluate NSC differentiation. Psoralen treatment significantly inhibited neurosphere formation in a dose-dependent manner. Psoralen treatment increased the expression of the astrocyte-specific marker but decreased neuron-specific marker expression. These results suggested that Psoralen was a differentiation inducer in astrocyte. Differential gene expression following Psoralen treatment was screened using DNA microarray and confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR. Our microarray study demonstrated that Psoralen could effectively regulate the specific gene expression profile of NSC. The genes involved in the classification of cellular differentiation, proliferation, and metabolism, the transcription factors belonging to Ets family, and the hedgehog pathway may be closely related to the regulation.
Algal Meningoencephalitis due toProtothecaspp. in a Dog
Authors: Le Roux Alexandre , Gumber Sanjeev , Bauer Rudy W. , Rademacher Nathalie , Gaschen Lorrie
Published: July 2013

A 6-year-old Boxer was examined because of progressive neurologic signs, with severe hindlimb ataxia and head tilt on presentation. There was no history of diarrhea or vomiting. MRI of the brain revealed multifocal ill-defined T1-enhancing lesions affecting the cerebrum, brainstem, and cervical meninges, without associated mass effect. Meningoencephalitis was considered the most likely diagnosis. Multiple algae were observed on the cytology of the CSF and were most consistent withProtothecaspp. Antiprotozoal treatment was denied by the owners, and 5 weeks after diagnosis, the dog was euthanized due to progression of the neurologic deficits, and a necropsy was performed. Histological changes in the brain were compatible with severe multifocal protothecal meningoencephalitis. The specificProtothecaspecies was not identified. The gastrointestinal tract was unremarkable on histology. According to this report,Protothecaspp. should be included in the differentials for neurological deficits even in the absence of gastrointestinal signs.
Isolated Fallopian Tube Torsion
Authors: Kardakis S. , Barranca A. , Vitelli A. , Amore I. , Trento F. , Caccia G.
Published: July 2013

Isolated torsion of the Fallopian tube is a rare gynecological cause of acute lower abdominal pain, and diagnosis is difficult. There are no pathognomonic symptoms; clinical, imaging, or laboratory findings. A preoperative ultrasound showing tubular adnexal masses of heterogeneous echogenicity with cystic component is often present. Diagnosis can rarely be made before operation, and laparoscopy is necessary to establish the diagnosis. Unfortunately, surgery often is performed too late for tube conservation. Isolated Fallopian tube torsion should be suspected in case of acute pelvic pain, and prompt intervention is necessary.
Stepwise Embryonic Toxicity of Silver Nanoparticles onOryzias latipes
Authors: Cho Jae-Gu , Kim Kyung-Tae , Ryu Tae-Kwon , Lee Jae-woo , Kim Ji-Eun , Kim Jungkon , Lee Byoung-Cheun , Jo Eun-Hye , Yoon Junheon , Eom Ig-chun , Choi Kyunghee , Kim Pilje
Published: July 2013

The developmental toxicity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was investigated following exposure ofOryzias latipes(medaka) embryos to 0.1−1 mg/L of homogeneously dispersed AgNPs for 14 days. During this period, developmental endpoints, including lethality, heart rate, and hatching rate, were evaluated by microscopy for different stages of medaka embryonic development. To compare toxic sensitivity, acute adult toxicity was assessed. There was no difference in acute lethal toxicity between embryo and adult medaka. Interestingly, we found that the increase in stepwise toxicity was dependent on the developmental stage of the embryo. Lethal embryonic toxicity increased from exposure days 1 to 3 and exposure days 5 to 8, whereas there was no change from exposure days 3 to 5. In addition, 7 d exposure to 0.8 mg/L AgNPs resulted in significant heart beat retardation in medaka embryos. AgNPs also caused a dose-dependent decrease in the hatching rate and body length of larvae. These results indicate that AgNP exposure causes severe developmental toxicity to medaka embryos and that toxicity levels are enhanced at certain developmental stages, which should be taken into consideration in assessments of metallic NPs toxicity to embryos.
Denosumab Chemotherapy for Recurrent Giant-Cell Tumor of Bone: A Case Report of Neoadjuvant Use Enabling Complete Surgical Resection
Authors: Agarwal Amit , Larsen Brandon T. , Buadu Lawrence D. , Dunn Jack , Crawford Russell , Daniel Jonathan , Bishop Maria C.
Published: July 2013

Giant-cell tumor of the bone (GCTB) is a rare neoplasm that affects young adults. The tumor is generally benign but sometimes can be locally aggressive. There are no standardized approaches to the treatment of GCTB. Recently, the RANKL inhibitor denosumab has shown activity in this tumor type. We present the case of a young female who presented with locally advanced disease and was successfully managed with the neoadjuvant use of denosumab allowing for surgical resection of the tumor that was previously deemed unresectable. Following surgery, the patient is being managed with continued use of denosumab as ‘maintenance,’ and she continues to be free of disease. Our case highlights a novel approach for the management of locally advanced and aggressive giant cell tumor of the bone.
Microarray Analysis Reveals the Molecular Basis of Antiarthritic Activity of Huo-Luo-Xiao-Ling Dan
Authors: Yu Hua , Lee David Y.-W. , Nanjundaiah Siddaraju M. , Venkatesha Shivaprasad H. , Berman Brian M. , Moudgil Kamal D.
Published: July 2013

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease of autoimmune origin. Huo-luo-xiao-ling dan (HLXL) is an herbal mixture that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine over several decades to treat chronic inflammatory diseases including RA. However, the mechanism of the anti-arthritic action of this herbal remedy is poorly understood at the molecular level. In this study, we determined by microarray analysis the effects of HLXL on the global gene expression profile of the draining lymph node cells (LNC) in the rat adjuvant arthritis (AA) model of human RA. In LNC restimulated in vitro with the disease-related antigen mycobacterial heat-shock protein 65 (Bhsp65), 84 differentially expressed genes (DEG) (64 upregulated and 20 downregulated) versus 120 DEG (94 upregulated and 26 downregulated) were identified in HLXL-treated versus vehicle (Water)-treated rats, respectively, and 62 DEG (45 upregulated and 17 downregulated) were shared between the two groups. The most affected pathways in response to HLXL treatment included immune response, inflammation, cellular proliferation and apoptosis, and metabolic processes, many of which are directly relevant to arthritis pathogenesis. These results would advance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the anti-arthritic activity of HLXL.
Enhanced Efficiency of GaAs Single-Junction Solar Cells with Inverted-Cone-Shaped Nanoholes Fabricated Using Anodic Aluminum Oxide Masks
Authors: Kim Kangho , Nguyen Hoang Duy , Mho Sunil , Lee Jaejin
Published: July 2013

The GaAs solar cells are grown by low-pressure metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (LP-MOCVD) and fabricated by photolithography, metal evaporation, annealing, and wet chemical etch processes. Anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) masks are prepared from an aluminum foil by a two-step anodization method. Inductively coupled plasma dry etching is used to etch and define the nanoarray structures on top of an InGaP window layer of the GaAs solar cells. The inverted-cone-shaped nanoholes with a surface diameter of about 50 nm are formed on the top surface of the solar cells after the AAO mask removal. Photovoltaic and optical characteristics of the GaAs solar cells with and without the nanohole arrays are investigated. The reflectance of the AAO nanopatterned samples is lower than that of the planar GaAs solar cell in the measured range. The short-circuit current density increased up to 11.63% and the conversion efficiency improved from 10.53 to 11.57% under 1-sun AM 1.5 G conditions by using the nanohole arrays. Dependence of the efficiency enhancement on the etching depth of the nanohole arrays is also investigated. These results show that the nanohole arrays fabricated with an AAO technique may be employed to improve the light absorption and, in turn, the conversion efficiency of the GaAs solar cell.
A p-Strategy with a Local Time-Stepping Method in a Discontinuous Galerkin Approach to Solve Electromagnetic Problems
Authors: Mallet Benoit , Ferrieres Xavier , Pernet Sebastien , Laurent Jean-Baptiste , Pecqueux Bernard , Seimandi Pierre
Published: July 2013

We present a local spatial approximation or p-strategy Discontinuous Galerkin method to solve the time-domain Maxwell equations. First, the Discontinuous Galerkin method with a local time-stepping strategy is recalled. Next, in order to increase the efficiency of the method, a local spatial approximation strategy is introduced and studied. While preserving accuracy and by using different spatial approximation orders for each cell, this strategy is very efficient to reduce the computational time and the required memory in numerical simulations using very distorted meshes. Several numerical examples are given to show the interest and the capacity of such method.
The Effect of Ranitidine on Olanzapine-Induced Weight Gain
Authors: Ranjbar Fatemeh , Ghanepour Alireza , Sadeghi-Bazargani Homayoun , Asadlo Mahbob , Alizadeh Amineh
Published: July 2013

Induced weight gain is a disturbing side effect of Olanzapine that affects the quality of life in psychotic patients. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of Ranitidine in attenuating or preventing Olanzapine-induced weight gain. A parallel 2-arm clinical trial was done on 52 patients with schizophrenia, schizoaffective and schizophreniform disorders who received Olanzapine for the first time. All these were first-episode admitted patients. They were randomly allocated to receive either Ranitidine or placebo. The trend of body mass index (BMI) was compared between groups over 16-week course of treatment. Mean weight was 62.3 (SD: 9.6) kg at baseline. Thirty-three subjects (63.5%) had positive family history of obesity. The average BMI increment was 1.1 for Ranitidine group and 2.4 for the placebo group. The multivariate analysis showed this effect to be independent of sex, family history of obesity, and baseline BMI value. The longitudinal modeling after controlling for baseline values failed to show the whole trend slope to be different. Although the slight change in trend’s slope puts forward a hypothesis that combined use of Ranitidine and Olanzapine may attenuate the weight gain long run, this needs to be retested in future larger scale long-term studies. This trial is registered with IRCT.ir201009112181N5.
Catalytic Activity of Porous Phosphate Heterostructures-Fe towards Reactive Black 5 Degradation
Authors: Lucas Marco S. , Algarra Manuel , Jiménez-Jiménez José , Rodríguez-Castellón Enrique , Peres José A.
Published: July 2013

Fenton’s reaction is often used to decompose stable substances in wastewater. In this study, experiments based on the effect of porous phosphate heterostructures as catalyst sorbent of Fe2+synthesised by different procedures were planned. The examined PPH-Fe/H2O2as oxidant in a heterogeneous process under mild conditions at pH 5 was found to be very efficient for discoloration of a simulated wastewater containing 50 mg L−1of a commercial azo dye (Reactive Black 5) reaching 95% of decolourization. Under the described conditions total visual decolourization was achieved after 360 min. This study can provide a simple, effective, and economic system ideal for the treatment of toxic and nonbiodegradable azo dyes.
An Optimal Control Approach to Malaria Prevention via Insecticide-Treated Nets
Authors: Silva Cristiana J. , Torres Delfim F. M.
Published: July 2013

Malaria is a life threatening disease, entirely preventable and treatable, provided that the currently recommended interventions are properly implemented. These interventions include vector control through the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). However, ITN possession is not necessarily translated into use. Human behavior change interventions, including information, education, communication (IEC) campaigns and postdistribution hang-up campaigns, are strongly recommended. In this paper, we consider a recent mathematical model for the effects of ITNs on the transmission dynamics of malaria infection, which takes into account the human behavior. We introduce in this model a supervision control, representing IEC campaigns for improving the ITN usage. We propose and solve an optimal control problem where the aim is to minimize the number of infected humans while keeping the cost as low as possible. Numerical results are provided, which show the effectiveness of the optimal control interventions.
Virus-Like Particles Containing the Tetrameric Ectodomain of Influenza Matrix Protein 2 and Flagellin Induce Heterosubtypic Protection in Mice
Authors: Wang Li , Wang Ying-Chun , Feng Hao , Ahmed Tamanna , Compans Richard W. , Wang Bao-Zhong
Published: July 2013

The ectodomain of matrix protein 2 (M2e) is highly conserved among influenza A viruses and can be a promising candidate antigen for a broadly cross-protective vaccine. In this study, a tetrameric M2e (tM2e) and a truncated form of flagellin (tFliC) were coincorporated into virus-like particles (VLPs) to enhance its immunogenicity. Our data showed that the majority of M2e in VLPs was presented as tetramers by introducing a foreign tetramerization motif GCN4. Intranasal immunization with tM2e VLPs significantly enhanced the levels of serum IgG and IgG subclasses compared to soluble M2e (sM2e) in mice. tM2e VLPs also induced higher M2e-specific T-cell and mucosal antibody responses, conferring complete protection against homologous influenza virus infection. The immunogenicity of tM2e VLPs was further enhanced by coincorporation of the membrane-anchored tFliC (tM2e chimeric VLPs) or coadministration with tFliC VLPs as a mixture, but not the soluble flagellin, inducing strong humoral and cellular immune responses conferring cross-protection against lethal challenge with heterotypic influenza viruses. These results support the development of tM2e chimeric VLPs as universal vaccines and warrant further investigation.
Sensory Recovery Outcome after Digital Nerve Repair in Relation to Different Reconstructive Techniques: Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Paprottka Felix J. , Wolf Petra , Harder Yves , Kern Yasmin , Paprottka Philipp M. , Machens Hans-Günther , Lohmeyer Jörn A.
Published: July 2013

Good clinical outcome after digital nerve repair is highly relevant for proper hand function and has a significant socioeconomic impact. However, level of evidence for competing surgical techniques is low. The aim is to summarize and compare the outcomes of digital nerve repair with different methods (end-to-end and end-to-side coaptations, nerve grafts, artificial conduit-, vein-, muscle, and muscle-in-vein reconstructions, and replantations) to provide an aid for choosing an individual technique of nerve reconstruction and to create reference values of standard repair for nonrandomized clinical studies. 87 publications including 2,997 nerve repairs were suitable for a precise evaluation. For digital nerve repairs there was practically no particular technique superior to another. Only end-to-side coaptation had an inferior two-point discrimination in comparison to end-to-end coaptation or nerve grafting. Furthermore, this meta-analysis showed that youth was associated with an improved sensory recovery outcome in patients who underwent digital replantation. For end-to-end coaptations, recent publications had significantly better sensory recovery outcomes than older ones. Given minor differences in outcome, the main criteria in choosing an adequate surgical technique should be gap length and donor site morbidity caused by graft material harvesting. Our clinical experience was used to provide a decision tree for digital nerve repair.
Numerical Hydroacoustic Analysis of NACA Foils in Marine Applications and Comparison of Their Acoustic Behavior
Authors: Ghadimi Parviz , Kermani Saman , Feizi Chekab Mohammad A.
Published: July 2013

One of the most important parameters to be considered in the design process of lifting surfaces for marine applications is the acoustic noise emitted by the designed surface. In the present work, the hydroacoustic fields of NACA0012 and NACA0018 hydrofoils are calculated, and the acoustic behavior of these sections is examined and compared at different angles of attack. The Ansys-CFX Navier-Stokes solver is used for hydrodynamic analysis, and a highly accurate multithread program named ACOPY is developed in Python programming language based on the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings method for acoustic analysis. The developed code has high capability in parallel programming. Results of hydrodynamic and acoustic analyses have been validated against available data. A parametric study is conducted, and the best integration surface for FW-H method is introduced. The acoustic behavior of the sections is calculated in an extensive parametric study for different angles of attack of the hydrofoils. The operational acoustic fields of the foils have been calculated and compared. The results indicate that NACA0012 hydrofoil is a better choice and, more effective, when the acoustic behavior of the hydrofoil is a significant design criterion.
Formation of Various Pyramidal Structures on Monocrystalline Silicon Surface and Their Influence on the Solar Cells
Authors: Han Yangang , Yu Xuegong , Wang Dong , Yang Deren
Published: July 2013

Texturization is a useful method to enhance the optical absorption of monocrystalline silicon wafers by light‐trapping effect in solar cell processing. In present study, a series of textured wafers with various pyramid sizes ranging from 200 nm to 10 μm were fabricated by modified wet‐chemical method and characterized. The results show that there is little difference in the reflectance with the pyramid sizes from 1 to 10 μm, which is consistent with the ray‐tracing simulation results. However, the light‐trapping function of the 200 nm sample below the geometrical optics limit is much weaker. The solar cells fabricated from the 1 μm samples own the highest power conversion efficiency of 18.17% due to a better coverage of metal finger lines than the larger ones, and the 200 nm samples have the lowest efficiency of 10.53%.
Severe Starvation-Induced Hepatocyte Autophagy as a Cause of Acute Liver Injury in Anorexia Nervosa: A Case Report
Authors: Restellini S. , Spahr L. , Rubbia Brandt L.
Published: July 2013

Introduction. Mild elevation of transaminase may be observed in anorexia nervosa, but acute liver injury is uncommon. A complex programmed cell death in response to starvation, called autophagy, has been described in experimental and human studies.Case Presentation. A 24-year-old woman suffering from anorexia nervosa was hospitalized for severe malnutrition. At admission, there were biological signs of acute liver injury but no electrolytic imbalance. After having ruled out the most common causes of liver injury, the patient was carefully refed. As liver tests remained abnormal, liver biopsy was performed. At histology and electron microscopy, numerous signs suggestive of starvation-induced hepatocyte autophagy were found.Discussion. Severe starvation can be associated with acute liver injury that is slowly reversible with careful enteral nutrition. In this clinical situation, profound hepatic glycogen depletion in association with autophagy appears as the leading cause of liver injury.
High Glucose-Induced Oxidative Stress Increases the Copy Number of Mitochondrial DNA in Human Mesangial Cells
Authors: Al-Kafaji Ghada , Golbahar Jamal
Published: July 2013

Oxidative damage to mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has been linked to the pathogenicity of diabetic nephropathy. We tested the hypothesis that mtDNA copy number may be increased in human mesangial cells in response to high glucose-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) to compensate for damaged mtDNA. The effect of manganese superoxide dismutase mimetic (MnTBAP) on glucose-induced mtDNA copy number was also examined. The copy number of mtDNA was determined by real-time PCR in human mesangial cells cultured in 5 mM glucose, 25 mM glucose, and mannitol (osmotic control), as well as in cells cultured in 25 mM glucose in the presence and absence of 200 μM MnTBAP. Intracellular ROS was assessed by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry in human mesangial cells. The copy number of mtDNA was significantly increased when human mesangial cells were incubated with 25 mM glucose compared to 5 mM glucose and mannitol. In addition, 25 mM glucose rapidly generated ROS in the cells, which was not detected in 5 mM glucose. Furthermore, mtDNA copy number was significantly decreased and maintained to normal following treatment of cells with 25 mM glucose and MnTBAP compared to 25 mM glucose alone. Inclusion of MnTBAP during 25 mM glucose incubation inhibited mitochondrial superoxide in human mesangial cells. Increased mtDNA copy number in human mesangial cells by high glucose could contribute to increased mitochondrial superoxide, and prevention of mtDNA copy number could have potential in retarding the development of diabetic nephropathy.
Atypical Gastric Ulcer in an Elderly Cocaine User
Authors: Gaduputi Vinaya , Tariq Hassan , Ihimoyan Ariyo
Published: July 2013

Cocaine or Benzoylmethylecgonine is an alkaloid extracted from the leaves of the Erythroxylon plant, which can cause gastrointestinal ischemia from severe arterial vasoconstriction via stimulation of alpha-adrenergic receptors in the gastric and mesenteric arteries. We report this case of a 65-year-old man who presented with a single massive ulcer at the incisura of the stomach as a result of cocaine use. The size and location of this ulcer were atypical and illustrate the potential for serious gastrointestinal manifestations from cocaine use.
Traumatic Reticuloperitonitis in Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): Clinical Findings and the Associated Inflammatory Response
Authors: El-Ashker Maged , Salama Mohamed , El-Boshy Mohamed
Published: July 2013

The present study was carried out to describe the clinical picture of traumatic reticuloperitonitis (TRP) in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and to evaluate the inflammatory and immunologic responses for this clinical condition. Twenty-two buffalo with acute local TRP were monitored in our study. Additionally, 10 clinically healthy buffalo were randomly selected and served as controls. Acute local TRP was initially diagnosed by clinical examination and confirmed by ultrasonographic (USG) examination and/or necropsy findings. Blood samples were collected from all examined buffalo to measure the respective levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and interferon gamma (INF)-γ, serum amyloid A (SAA), C-reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (Hp), fibrinogen (Fb), and serum sialic acid (SSA). It was found that TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, SAA, CRP, Hp, Fb, and SSA were significantly higher in buffalo with TRP than the controls. Our findings suggest that the examined immunologic variables were helpful in documenting the inflammatory response in buffalo with TRP. However, their diagnostic usefulness only becomes apparent when considered in tandem with the clinical findings for any given animal, its anamnesis, and a subsequent USG assessment. Due to the frequent complications of TRP, more accurate indicators of its occurrence and severity would be useful.
Influence of Graphene Oxide on the Tribological and Electrical Properties of PMMA Composites
Authors: Song Jiale , Zhang Jiaoxia , Lin Chunling
Published: July 2013

The graphene oxide (GO) was obtained by Hummers′ method using natural graphite as raw materials. Then, the GO/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanocomposites were prepared by in situ polymerization. The tribological and electrical properties of nanocomposites were studied. As a result, the frictional coefficient of GO/PMMA nanocomposites was prominently improved with the content of the graphene oxide increasing. The electrical properties of nanocomposites were slightly increased when adding the graphene oxide.
Detailed Analysis of Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma Patients: A Single-Center, Retrospective Study
Authors: Ozbalak Murat , Ar M. Cem , Tuzuner Nukhet , Salihoglu Ayse , Eskazan A. Emre , Ongoren Aydin Seniz , Baslar Zafer , Soysal Teoman , Aydin Yildiz , Barak Dolgun Anil , Ergonul Onder , Ferhanoglu Burhan
Published: July 2013

The aim of this single-center, retrospective study was to investigate the impact of rituximab, reconsider the validity of International Prognostic Index (IPI), and evaluate the prognostic role of the cell of origin (CoO) in a relatively young cohort. Three hundred twelve diffuse large B cell lymphoma patients (median age: 52) were included. Rituximab significantly improved the 3- and 5-year progression free survival (PFS) (70% versus 65% and 41% versus 36%, resp.; P<0.001) but led only to a slight, insignificant increase in 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS) (71% versus 77.3% and %67 versus 74.5%, resp.; P=0.264). In the young, low risk patient subgroup (aaIPI = 0&1; n=129), rituximab improved 3- and 5-year PFS and OS rates (P<0.001 and P=0.048, resp.). The efficacy of rituximab in young high risk patients was comparable to the literature. CoO data were available in 190 patients. The OS at 3 years was 79% for GC and 64% for non-GC subgroups (P=0.014). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study which investigated the impact of R-CHOP in the context of CoO and IPI in a relatively young cohort. CoO was not an independent risk factor for prognosis in the multivariate analysis although patients with GC showed a significant survival advantage in the univariate analysis. CoO was also found to be a significant determinant of response in refractory/relapsed patients. Our results confirm the efficacy of rituximab in low and high risk, young patients outside of a randomized clinical trial setting.
Three-Year Performance Evaluation of Single Junction Amorphous Solar Cells Grid-Connected Power Station in Libya
Authors: Saleh Ibrahim M. , Abufares Hamed M. , Snousi Haitham M.
Published: July 2013

Photovoltaic (PV) conservation of solar energy is one of the most promising sources of future energy. Grid-connected PV systems are widely used in many countries, but in Libya it is just started. A PV grid-connected of 24 KWP PV system has been installed as a pilot project to deliver AC energy to the Tripoli University electric grid; the system is of single junction amorphous solar cells which were erected in Sep. 2009; it consists of 240 Mitsubishi thin film amorphous PV Modules of MA100T2 type capable of supplying 100 Watts of DC power each, five inverters of type SMA Sunny Mini Central, and the system is equipped with a data logger to record all important parameters. In this paper the evaluation of the PV system performance was carried out according to the European guidelines of the PV system operation. The results of the measured parameters, namely, the performance ratio, AC energy yearly yield, the temperature dependent, and the system efficiency, showed that the system is performing better than the deigned parameters.