bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation of Mature Nα‐Terminal Acetylated Thymosin α1 by Cleavage of Recombinant Prothymosin α
Authors: Liu Bo , Gong Xin , Chang Shaohong , Sun Peng , Wu Jun
Published: October 2013

Nα‐terminal acetylation of peptides plays an important biological role but is rarely observed in prokaryotes. Nα‐terminal acetylated thymosin α1 (Tα1), a 28‐amino‐acid peptide, is an immune modifier that has been used in the clinic to treat hepatitis B and C virus (HBV/HCV) infections. We previously documented Nα‐terminal acetylation of recombinant prothymosin α (ProTα) in E. coli. Here we present a method for production of Nα‐acetylated Tα1 from recombinant ProTα. The recombinant ProTα was cleaved by human legumain expressed in Pichia pastoris to release Tα1 in vitro. The Nα‐acetylated Tα1 peptide was subsequently purified by reverse phase and cation exchange chromatography. Mass spectrometry indicated that the molecular mass of recombinant Nα‐acetylated Tα1 was 3108.79 in, which is identical to the mass of Nα‐acetylated Tα1 produced by total chemical synthesis. This mass corresponded to the nonacetylated Tα1 mass with a 42 Da increment. The retention time of recombinant Nα‐acetylated Tα1 and chemosynthetic Nα‐acetylated Tα1 were both 15.4 min in RP‐high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). These data support the use of an E. coli expression system for the production of recombinant human Nα‐acetylated Tα1 and also will provide the basis for the preparation of recombinant acetylated peptides in E. coli.
Oxygen Defects Mediated Magnetism of Ni Doped ZnO
Authors: Liu W. J. , Tang X. D. , Tang Z. , Bai W. , Tang N. Y.
Published: October 2013

Ni doped ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized by a solution route and annealed in O2, air, and Ar, respectively. X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements show that the samples possess typical wurtzite structure and have no other impurity phases. Magnetization loops for ZnO samples were measured and clearly show typical ferromagnetic saturation behavior. With the defect analysis based on photoluminescence spectroscopy, the effect of defects on the nature and origin of ferromagnetism was investigated. The results suggest that oxygen vacancies, especially single ionized oxygen vacancies, play a crucial role in mediating ferromagnetism in the Ni doped ZnO.
Salmonellain Liquid Eggs and Other Foods in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Murakami Koichi , Noda Tamie , Onozuka Daisuke , Sera Nobuyuki
Published: October 2013

The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence ofSalmonellain retail and wholesale foods in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. A total of 2,021 samples collected between 1999 and 2010 were tested using a culture method. Samples consisted of liquid eggs (n=30), meat (beef and pork) (n=781), offal (n=69), processed meats (n=2), seafood (n=232), processed seafood (dried fish) (n=76), vegetables (n=481), processed vegetables (n=87), fruits (n=167), and herbs (n=96) from 574 outlets and wholesale agents in 15 areas (five samples were undocumented regarding outlets). Overall, liquid egg showed significantly (P<0.001) higher frequencies ofSalmonellacontamination (13.3%) than beef (1/423, 0.2%) and pork (3/235, 1.3%).Salmonella entericasubsp.entericaserovar Enteritidis, the most common serovar as a human pathogen, were isolated from two liquid egg samples. NoSalmonellawere isolated from seafood and vegetable-related samples including seed sprouts (n=261). In conclusion, liquid egg is a significantSalmonellavehicle, showing a need to continue the vaccination of chickens to preventS.Enteritidis contamination in Japanese eggs. Moreover, further study is needed to evaluateSalmonellacontamination in seed sprouts with more sampling from retailers there.
Analysis of Radiative Radial Fin with Temperature-Dependent Thermal Conductivity Using Nonlinear Differential Transformation Methods
Authors: Torabi Mohsen , Yaghoobi Hessameddin , Colantoni Andrea , Biondi Paolo , Boubaker Karem
Published: October 2013

Radiative radial fin with temperature-dependent thermal conductivity is analyzed. The calculations are carried out by using differential transformation method (DTM), which is a seminumerical-analytical solution technique that can be applied to various types of differential equations, as well as the Boubaker polynomials expansion scheme (BPES). By using DTM, the nonlinear constrained governing equations are reduced to recurrence relations and related boundary conditions are transformed into a set of algebraic equations. The principle of differential transformation is briefly introduced and then applied to the aforementioned equations. Solutions are subsequently obtained by a process of inverse transformation. The current results are then compared with previously obtained results using variational iteration method (VIM), Adomian decomposition method (ADM), homotopy analysis method (HAM), and numerical solution (NS) in order to verify the accuracy of the proposed method. The findings reveal that both BPES and DTM can achieve suitable results in predicting the solution of such problems. After these verifications, we analyze fin efficiency and the effects of some physically applicable parameters in this problem such as radiation-conduction fin parameter, radiation sink temperature, heat generation, and thermal conductivity parameters.
The Relationship between Comprehension of Figurative Language by Japanese Children with High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders and College Freshmen’s Assessment of Its Conventionality of Usage
Authors: Oi Manabu , Tanaka Sanae , Ohoka Harue
Published: October 2013

Unlike their English-speaking counterparts, Japanese children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASDs) perform as well as typically developing (TD) children in comprehending metaphor, despite lacking 1st order theory of mind (ToM) reasoning. Additionally, although Japanese sarcasm and “indirect reproach” appear theoretically to need 2nd order ToM reasoning, HFASD children without this comprehended these forms of language as well as TD children. To attempt to explain this contradiction, we asked college freshmen to evaluate the strangeness (unconventionality) of these types of figurative language. We aimed to test the hypothesis that metaphor, sarcasm, and “indirect reproach” might be evaluated as more conventional than irony, which children with HFASDs do not comprehend as well as those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The results for irony, metaphor, and “indirect reproach” supported the hypothesis, while those for sarcasm did not. Sarcasm is comprehended by HFASDs children as well as by TD children despite being evaluated as highly unconventional. This contradiction is discussed from a self-in-relation-to-other perspective. We postulate that a new explanation of disabilities of figurative language comprehension in children with HFASDs is needed instead of relying on a single cognitive process.
Air Temperature Estimation by Using Artificial Neural Network
Models in the Greater Athens Area, Greece
Authors: Kamoutsis A. P. , Matsoukis A. S. , Chronopoulos K. I.
Published: October 2013

Air temperature (T) data were estimated in the regions of Nea Smirni, Penteli, and Peristeri, in the greater Athens area, Greece, using the T data of a reference station in Penteli. Two artificial neural network approaches were developed. The first approach, MLP1, used the T as input parameter and the second, MLP2, used additionally the time of the corresponding T. One site in Nea Smirni, three sites in Penteli, from which two are located in the Pentelikon mountain, and one site in Peristeri were selected based on different land use and altitude. T data were monitored in each site for the period between December 1, 2009, and November 30, 2010. In this work the two extreme seasons (winter and summer) are presented. The results showed that the MLP2 model was better (higher and lower MAE) than MLP1 for the T estimation in both winter and summer, independently of the examined region. In general, MLP1 and MLP2 models provided more accurate T estimations in regions located in greater distance (Nea Smirni and Peristeri) from the reference station in relation to the nearby Pentelikon mountain. The greater distance T estimations, in most cases, were better in winter compared to summer.
Reproductive Parameters of the Dogo Argentino Bitch
Authors: Caffaratti Marina , González Griselda , Gorla Nora , Guendulain Corina
Published: October 2013

The Dogo Argentino (DA) is the first and only breed from Argentina recognized worldwide. Although its morphologic features have been well established, its normal reproductive parameters are not clearly known. The aim of this study was to determine the main DA bitch reproductive parameters. One hundred and forty-nine surveys were obtained from breeders from Córdoba province, Argentina: one for each intact DA bitch from 1 to 14 years old. The DA bitch reached puberty at an average of 8.93 months. The mean duration of vulval bleeding found in this study was 11.11 days. The clinical signs characteristic for proestrous-estrous were vulval edema (89.93%), bleeding during the time of mating (32.21%), holding the tail to the side (95.30%), and docility during mating (85.91%). DA bitches had a whelping rate of 84%. Out of 299 pregnancies, 89.30% exhibited a normal parturition, 6.69% presented dystocia, 2.68% needed Cesarean section, and 1.34% aborted. In conclusion, the reproductive parameters of the DA bitch are similar to those identified for other large breeds. DA often showed a prolonged vulval bleeding longer than proestrus. Its high whelping rate, its low incidence of dystocia, and its good maternal ability define the DA as a good reproductive breed with normal reproductive functions.
Enhanced Electrocatalytic Activity of Pt Particles Supported on Reduced Graphene Oxide/Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) RGO/PEDOT Composite towards Ethanol Oxidation
Authors: Foronda Juanito Raphael F. , Cabrera Stellar Marie R. , Cumpas Darrel L. , Villar Paolo Gio A. , Tan Joshua L. , Tongol Bernard John V.
Published: October 2013

Catalysts in fuel cells are normally platinum based because platinum exhibits high electrocatalytic activity towards ethanol oxidation in acidic medium. However, bulk Pt is expensive and rare in nature. To reduce the consumption of Pt, a support material or matrix is needed to disperse Pt on its surface as micro‐ or nanoparticles with potential application as anode material in direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs). In this study, a composite material consisting of platinum particles dispersed on reduced graphene oxide/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (RGO/PEDOT) support was electrochemically prepared for ethanol oxidation in sulfuric acid electrolyte. PEDOT, a conductive polymer, was potentiodynamically polymerized from the corresponding monomer, 0.10 M EDOT in 0.10 M HClO4 electrolyte. The PEDOT‐modified electrode was used as a substrate for exfoliated graphene oxide (EGO) which was prepared by electrochemical exfoliation of graphite from carbon rod of spent batteries and subsequently reduced to form RGO. The Pt/RGO/PEDOT composite gave the highest electrocatalytic activity with an anodic current density of 2688.7 mA·cm−2 at E = 0.70 V (versus Ag/AgCl) towards ethanol oxidation compared to bare Pt electrode and other composites. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the surface morphology of the hybrid composites while energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) confirmed the presence of all the elements for the Pt/RGO/PEDOT composite.
Green's Function Method for Self-Adjoint Realization of Boundary-Value Problems with Interior Singularities
Authors: Aydemir K. , Mukhtarov O. Sh.
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this paper is to investigate some spectral properties of Sturm-Liouville type problems with interior singularities. Some of the mathematical aspects necessary for developing our own technique are presented. By applying this technique we construct some special solutions of the homogeneous equation and present a formula and the existence conditions of Green's function. Furthermore, based on these results and introducing operator treatment in adequate Hilbert space, we derive the resolvent operator and prove self-adjointness of the considered problem.
Nonlinear Characteristics of Helicopter Rotor Blade Airfoils: An Analytical Evaluation
Authors: Rotaru Constantin
Published: October 2013

Some results are presented about the study of airloads of the helicopter rotor blades, the aerodynamic characteristics of airfoil sections, the physical features, and the techniques for modeling the unsteady effects found on airfoil operating under nominally attached flow conditions away from stall. The unsteady problem was approached on the basis of Theodorsen's theory, where the aerodynamic response (lift and pitching moment) is considered as a sum of noncirculatory and circulatory parts. The noncirculatory or apparent mass accounts for the pressure forces required to accelerate the fluid in the vicinity of the airfoil. The apparent mass contributions to the forces and pitching moments, which are proportional to the instantaneous motion, are included as part of the quasi-steady result.
Parametric Appraisal of Process Parameters for Adhesion of Plasma Sprayed Nanostructured YSZ Coatings Using Taguchi Experimental Design
Authors: Mantry Sisir , Mishra Barada K. , Chakraborty Madhusudan
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the application of the Taguchi experimental design in developing nanostructured yittria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) coatings by plasma spraying process. This paper depicts dependence of adhesion strength of as‐sprayed nanostructured YSZ coatings on various process parameters, and effect of those process parameters on performance output has been studied using Taguchi’s L16 orthogonal array design. Particle velocities prior to impacting the substrate, stand‐off‐distance, and particle temperature are found to be the most significant parameter affecting the bond strength. To achieve retention of nanostructure, molten state of nanoagglomerates (temperature and velocity) has been monitored using particle diagnostics tool. Maximum adhesion strength of 40.56 MPa has been experimentally found out by selecting optimum levels of selected factors. The enhanced bond strength of nano‐YSZ coating may be attributed to higher interfacial toughness due to cracks being interrupted by adherent nanozones.
Effects of Endothelial Progenitor Cell-Derived Microvesicles on Hypoxia/Reoxygenation-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction and Apoptosis
Authors: Wang Jinju , Chen Shuzhen , Ma Xiaotang , Cheng Chuanfang , Xiao Xiang , Chen Ji , Liu Shiming , Zhao Bin , Chen Yanfang
Published: October 2013

Oxidative stress-induced endothelial dysfunction plays a key role in ischemia/reperfusion injury. Recent evidence indicates that endothelial progenitor cell-derived microvesicles (EPC-MVs) can promote angiogenesis of endothelial cells (ECs). Here, we investigated the potential effects of EPC-MVs on hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury in human brain microvascular ECs (hb-ECs). MVs were prepared from EPCs cultured in a serum deprivation (SD) medium (starving stress, sEPC-MVs) or SD medium containing tumor necrosis factor-α(TNFα) (apoptotic stress, aEPC-MVs). H/R injury model of hb-ECs was produced by 6 hr hypoxia (1% O2) and 24 hr reoxygenation. The H/R hb-ECs were co-cultured with EPC-MVs. Results showed that (1) H/R hb-ECs were dysfunctional and coupled with increased apoptosis and ROS overproduction; (2) under two different conditions, EPCs displayed remarkable difference in caspase 3 and miR126 expression, which were carried by the corresponsive EPC-MVs; (3) functionally, sEPC-MVs had beneficial effects on H/R hb-ECs, whereas aEPC-MVs had detrimental effects; (4) the diverse effects of sEPC-MVs and aEPC-MVs were associated with the changes in miR126 and eNOS expression and were abolished by PI3K inhibitor. In conclusion, sEPCs-MVs and aEPC-MVs are functionally different on hb-EC apoptosis and dysfunction via their carried RNAs associated with ROS production and PI3K/eNOS/NO pathway.
Application of Homotopy Perturbation Method for Fuzzy Linear Systems and Comparison with Adomian’s Decomposition Method
Authors: Saberi Najafi H. , Edalatpanah S. A. , Refahi Sheikhani A. H.
Published: October 2013

We present an efficient numerical algorithm for solution of the fuzzy linear systems (FLS) based on He’s homotopy perturbation method (HPM). Moreover, the convergence properties of the proposed method have been analyzed and also comparisons are made between Adomian’s decomposition method (ADM) and the proposed method. The results reveal that our method is effective and simple.
Bilateral Synchronous Granulomatous Orchitis in a Patient with Erectile Disfunction: Clinical and Pathologic Study of the Case
Authors: Rodriguez Peña M. , Moreno D.
Published: October 2013

A 50-year-old male patient presented with erectile failure and loss of libido. In the physical examination, there were stone-hard indurations in his bilateral testes. The ultrasonographic study demonstrated multiple hypoechoic areas in the testes and normal epididymis. Since the lesion was presumed as malignancy, bilateral inguinal exploration was performed and intraoperative frozen biopsies were studied and diagnosed as inflammatory process. Nevertheless, we decided to perform left orchiectomy to a deeper histopathologic analysis which revealed granulomatous orchitis, mastocytosis, and severe depletion of Leydig cells at the testicular interstitium. Differential diagnosis between testicular tumor and granulomatous orchitis is very difficult in any examination except by histological findings. Bilateral cases of this pathology are relatively rare, but it is necessary to distinguish them from the testicular tumor before surgical intervention to avoid an unnecessary orchiectomy.
Viscosity‐Projection Method for a Family of General Equilibrium Problems and Asymptotically Strict Pseudocontractions in the Intermediate Sense
Authors: Wen Dao-Jun
Published: October 2013

In this paper, a Meir‐Keeler contraction is introduced to propose a viscosity‐projection approximation method for finding a common element of the set of solutions of a family of general equilibrium problems and the set of fixed points of asymptotically strict pseudocontractions in the intermediate sense. Strong convergence of the viscosity iterative sequences is obtained under some suitable conditions. Results presented in this paper extend and unify the previously known results announced by many other authors.
Epigenetic Modifications and Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Kowluru Renu A. , Santos Julia M. , Mishra Manish
Published: October 2013

Diabetic retinopathy remains one of the most debilitating chronic complications, but despite extensive research in the field, the exact mechanism(s) responsible for how retina is damaged in diabetes remains ambiguous. Many metabolic pathways have been implicated in its development, and genes associated with these pathways are altered. Diabetic environment also facilitates epigenetics modifications, which can alter the gene expression without permanent changes in DNA sequence. The role of epigenetics in diabetic retinopathy is now an emerging area, and recent work has shown that genes encoding mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (Sod2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) are epigenetically modified, activates of epigenetic modification enzymes, histone lysine demethylase 1 (LSD1), and DNA methyltransferase are increased, and the micro RNAs responsible for regulating nuclear transcriptional factor and VEGF are upregulated. With the growing evidence of epigenetic modifications in diabetic retinopathy, better understanding of these modifications has potential to identify novel targets to inhibit this devastating disease. Fortunately, the inhibitors and mimics targeted towards histone modification, DNA methylation, and miRNAs are now being tried for cancer and other chronic diseases, and better understanding of the role of epigenetics in diabetic retinopathy will open the door for their possible use in combating this blinding disease.
Nanohydroxyapatite Application to Osteoporosis Management
Authors: Noor Zairin
Published: October 2013

Hydroxyapatite is chemically related to the inorganic component of bone matrix as a complex structure with the formula of Ca10(OH)2(PO4)6. Previous studies have reported the application of microsized hydroxyapatite to bone regeneration, but the result is not satisfied. The limitation comes from the size of hydroxyapatite. In addition, the duration of treatment is very long. The advantages of hydroxyapatite nanocrystal are the osteoconduction, bioresorption, and contact in close distance. Crystal in osteoporotic bone is calcium phosphate hydroxide with the chemical formula of Ca10(OH)2(PO4)6. Crystal of normal bone issodium calcium hydrogen carbonate phosphate hydratewith the chemical formula of Ca8H2(PO4)6·H2O–NaHCO3–H2O. The recent development is applying nanobiology approach to hydroxyapatite. This is based on the concept that the mineral atoms arranged in a crystal structure of hydroxyapatite can be substituted or incorporated by the other mineral atoms. In conclusion, the basic elements of hydroxyapatite crystals, composed of atomic minerals in a certain geometric pattern, and their relationship to the bone cell biological activity have opened opportunities for hydroxyapatite crystals supplement application on osteoporosis. Understanding of the characteristics of bone hydroxyapatite crystals as well as the behavior of mineral atom in the substitution will have a better impact on the management of osteoporosis.
Linear Simultaneous Equations’ Neural Solution and Its Application to Convex Quadratic Programming with Equality-Constraint
Authors: Chen Yuhuan , Yi Chenfu , Zhong Jian
Published: October 2013

A gradient-based neural network (GNN) is improved and presented for the linear algebraic equation solving. Then, such a GNN model is used for the online solution of the convex quadratic programming (QP) with equality-constraints under the usage of Lagrangian function and Karush-Kuhn-Tucker (KKT) condition. According to the electronic architecture of such a GNN, it is known that the performance of the presented GNN could be enhanced by adopting different activation function arrays and/or design parameters. Computer simulation results substantiate that such a GNN could obtain the accurate solution of the QP problem with an effective manner.
Immobilization Technologies in Probiotic Food Production
Authors: Mitropoulou Gregoria , Nedovic Viktor , Goyal Arun , Kourkoutas Yiannis
Published: October 2013

Various supports and immobilization/encapsulation techniques have been proposed and tested for application in functional food production. In the present review, the use of probiotic microorganisms for the production of novel foods is discussed, while the benefits and criteria of using probiotic cultures are analyzed. Subsequently, immobilization/encapsulation applications in the food industry aiming at the prolongation of cell viability are described together with an evaluation of their potential future impact, which is also highlighted and assessed.
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for the Treatment of the Open Abdomen and Incidence of Enteral Fistulas: A Retrospective Bicentre Analysis
Authors: Richter Sven , Dold Stefan , Doberauer Johannes P. , Mai Peter , Schuld Jochen
Published: October 2013

Introduction.The open abdomen (OA) is often associated with complications. It has been hypothesized that negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in the treatment of OA may provoke enteral fistulas. Therefore, we analyzed patients with OA and NPWT with special regard to the occurrence of intestinal fistulas.Methods.The present study included all consecutive patients with OA treated with NWPT from April 2010 to August 2011 in two hospitals. Patients’ demographics, indications for OA, risk factors, complications, outcome and incidence of fistulas before, during and after NPWT were recorded.Results.Of 81 patients with OA, 26 had pre-existing fistulas and 55 were free from a fistula at the beginning of NPWT. Nine of the 55 patients developed fistulas during () or after NPWT (). Seventy-five patients received ABThera therapy, 6 patients other temporary abdominal closure devices. Only diverticulitis seemed to be a significant predisposing factor for fistulas. Mortality was slightly lower for patients without fistulas.Conclusion.The present study revealed no correlation between occurrence of fistulas before, during, and after NWPT, with diverticulitis being the only risk factor. Fistula formation during NPWT was comparable to reports from literature. Prospective studies are mandatory to clarify the impact of NPWT on fistula formation.
Trends in Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control of Diabetes Mellitus in Mainland China from 1979 to 2012
Authors: Li Min-zhi , Su Li , Liang Bao-yun , Tan Jin-jing , Chen Qing , Long Jian-xiong , Xie Juan-juan , Wu Guang-liang , Yan Yan , Guo Xiao-jing , Gu Lian
Published: October 2013

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the primary causes of premature death and disability worldwide. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the published literature regarding the trends in prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of diabetes mellitus in mainland China. PUBMED, EMBASE, Chinese Biomedical Database, China National Infrastructure database, Chinese Wan Fang database, and Chongqing VIP database were searched. Fifty-six eligible studies were included. Increasing trends in the prevalence, treatment, and control of diabetes in mainland China from 1979 to 2012 were observed. The pooled prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of diabetes mellitus were 6.41%, 45.81%, 42.54%, and 20.87%, respectively. A higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus was found in urban (7.48%, 95%CI = 5.45~9.50) than rural (6.53%, 95%CI = 4.30~8.76) areas. Furthermore, an increasing chronological tendency was shown in different subgroups of age with regard to the prevalence of diabetes. A higher awareness of DM was found in urban (44.25%, 95%CI = 32.60~55.90) than rural (34.27%, 95%CI = 21.00~47.54) populations, and no significant differences were found in the treatment, and control of diabetes among the subgroups stratified by gender and location. From 1979 to 2012, the prevalence, treatment, and control of diabetes mellitus increased; nevertheless, there was no obvious improvement in the awareness of diabetes.
Molecular Identification and Polymorphism Determination of Cutaneous and Visceral Leishmaniasis Agents Isolated from Human and Animal Hosts in Iran
Authors: Hajjaran Homa , Mohebali Mehdi , Mamishi Setareh , Vasigheh Farzaneh , Oshaghi Mohammad Ali , Naddaf Saied Reza , Teimouri Aref , Edrissian Gholam Hossein , Zarei Zabiholah
Published: October 2013

Amplification of internal transcript spacer 1 of ribosomal RNA (ITS1-RNA) gene followed by RFLP analysis and sequencing was used to identify the causing agents of cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis (CL and VL) in humans and animal reservoir hosts from various geographical areas in Iran. We also used random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR) to obtain polymorphisms among isolates ofLeishmaniaspp. Totally, 362 suspected human and animal cases including 173 CL, 49 VL, 60 rodents, and 80 domestic dogs were examined forLeishmaniainfection. From 112 culture-positive samples prepared from CL cases, 75 (67%) were infected withL. majorand 37 (33%) withL. tropica. Of the 60 rodents examined, 25 (41.6%) harbored theLeishmaniainfection; 21 were infected withL. majorand 4 withL. turanica. From 49 suspected VL, 29 were positive by direct agglutination test (DAT), whereas microscopy detected parasite in bone marrow of 25 and culture in 28 of the patients. Two VL patients were infected withL. tropicaand 26 withL. infantum. Of the 80 domestic dogs, 56 showed anti-Leishmaniaantibodies with DAT. Of these, 55 were positive by both microscopy and culture. Molecular identity, obtained only for 47 samples, revealedL. infantumin 43 andL. tropicain 4 dogs. The polymorphisms amongL. tropicaandL. majorisolates were 3.6% and 7.3%; the rate among human and canine VL isolates was 2.8% and 9.8%, respectively. Our results showed that at least four differentLeishmaniaspecies with various polymorphisms circulate among humans and animal hosts in Iran.
Data Dissemination in Mobile Wireless Sensor Network Using Trajectory-Based Network Coding
Authors: Li Lingzhi , Zhang Shukui , Yang Zhe , Zhu Yanqin
Published: October 2013

With GPS devices spreading, more mobile nodes are guided by the navigation systems to select better paths. The performance of mobile networks can be improved with the navigation information in nodes. In this paper, we propose a trajectory-based network coding (TBNC) method to disseminate data in mobile wireless sensor network (MWSN). It is designed according to the characteristics of MWSN and is appropriate for the mobile nodes that share anonymously its GPS pretrajectory for the higher bandwidth. Data are disseminated in the topology that is predicted on the basis of the trajectory information. Network coding is used to adapt for the dynamics velocity of mobile nodes. Simulation results show that TBNC is able to cut down 1/2 overhead messages of PRoPHET when mobile nodes share GPS trajectory. It improves the reliability and scalability of MWSN.
Certain Types of Interval-Valued Fuzzy Graphs
Authors: Akram Muhammad , Alshehri Noura Omair , Dudek Wieslaw A.
Published: October 2013

We propose certain types of interval-valued fuzzy graphs including balanced interval-valued fuzzy graphs, neighbourly irregular interval-valued fuzzy graphs, neighbourly total irregular interval-valued fuzzy graphs, highly irregular interval-valued fuzzy graphs, and highly total irregular interval-valued fuzzy graphs. Some interesting properties associated with these new interval-valued fuzzy graphs are investigated, and necessary and sufficient conditions under which neighbourly irregular and highly irregular interval-valued fuzzy graphs are equivalent are obtained. We also describe the relationship between intuitionistic fuzzy graphs and interval-valued fuzzy graphs.
Profile of Cognitive Complaints in Vascular Mild Cognitive Impairment and Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Gu Jenny , Fischer Corinne E. , Saposnik Gustavo , Schweizer Tom A.
Published: October 2013

Objective. Vascular mild cognitive impairment (VaMCI) is differentiated from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) by the presence of vascular events such as stroke or small vessel disease. Typically, MCI and VaMCI patients present with subjective complaints regarding cognition; however, little is known about the specific nature of these complaints. We aimed to create a profile of subjective cognitive complaints in MCI and VaMCI patients with similar levels of objective cognitive performance.Methods.Twenty MCI and twenty VaMCI patients were recruited from a Memory Disorders Clinic in Toronto. Subjective cognitive complaints were assessed and categorized using the Neuropsychological Impairment Scale.Results.MCI and VaMCI patients achieved similar scores on measures of objective cognitive function (). However, the VaMCI group had more subjective complaints than the MCI group (), particularly in the critical items, cognitive efficiency, memory, and verbal learning domains of the Neuropsychological Impairment Scale.Conclusions. Our findings support the idea that VaMCI and MCI differ in their clinical profiles, independent of neuroimaging. VaMCI patients have significantly more subjective cognitive complaints and may be exhibiting particular deficits in memory, verbal learning, and cognitive efficiency. Our findings promote the need for further research into VaMCI-specific cognitive deficits.
Application of 2D Electrical Resistivity Tomography in Landfill Site: A Case Study of Iku, Ikare Akoko, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Chibueze Okpoli Cyril
Published: October 2013

2D resistivity tomography was used in , , and directions to delineate the extent of leachate plumes around a solid waste landfill in Ikare Akoko, Ondo State, behind the secretariat. I access the geometry and depth contamination extent of the landfill repository using dipole-dipole method and Global positioning system to ascertain the image of the subsurface and the position at the earth surface. The study area is underlain by Precambrian basement rocks. Quantitative interpretation of pseudosection results shows that in traverse 1, stations 7, 8, and 9 form a conductive path at the depth of 1–10 m and penetrate to depth of 25 m; the second traverse shows a layer of highly conductive structure extending diagonally across the study area, while the third traverse is partly conductive and largely resistive due to its closeness to fresh basement rocks. The 2D structure has shown various conductive path ways via fractures and openings, thus, contaminating the groundwater. I recommend that further geochemical analysis of the water should be done to ascertain the level of contamination.
Existence and Decay Estimate of Global Solutions to Systems of Nonlinear Wave Equations with Damping and Source Terms
Authors: Ye Yaojun
Published: October 2013

The initial-boundary value problem for a class of nonlinear wave equations system in bounded domain is studied. The existence of global solutions for this problem is proved by constructing a stable set and obtain the asymptotic stability of global solutions through the use of a difference inequality.
Oncothermia with Chemotherapy in the Patients with Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lee Doo Yun , Haam Seok Jin , Kim Tae Hoon , Lim Jae Yun , Kim Eun Jung , Kim Na Young
Published: October 2013

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is one of the most aggressive and lethal forms of lung cancers. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy would be standard modality for SCLC with median survival being less than 4 months only. Complementary treatment to chemotherapy is desired. Oncothermia will be one of the candidates to this addition. We have made a study of 31 SCLC patients from April 2006 to March 2012. 23 cases were treated with combined chemotherapy and oncothermia, and 8 cases were treated with chemotherapy alone. Three patients from 14 patients (14/31) died in the study period; there were equal numbers in the two arms, including one long survival case of 28 months and one of 26 months, in the combination and chemo-group, respectively .16 patients (16/31) are alive: 4 patients with chemotherapy only, including one long survival case of 28.7 months, and 11 cases with combined therapy including three long survival cases of more than 3 years. We conclude that the combined use of chemotherapy and oncothermia has significantly enhanced the survival rate in comparison with the use of chemotherapy alone (log-rank test: P value < 0.02).
Biphasic Equilibrium Dialysis of Poly(N-Isopropyl Acrylamide) Nanogels Synthesized at Decreased Temperatures for Targeted Delivery of Thermosensitive Bioactives
Authors: Musial Witold , Michálek Jiri , Pluta Janusz , Jaromin Anna , Pietka-Ottlik Magdalena , Pradny Martin
Published: October 2013

Hydrogel nanoparticles, referred to also as nanogels, are of special interest for medical and pharmaceutical applications. Due to small size in the range below the diameter of the capillaries, they are proposed as drug delivery carriers. The aim of the study was to estimate the influence of composition and reaction conditions during synthesis of poly-N-isopropyl acrylamide cross-linked by polyethylene glycol diacrylate on the purification rates of the polymer. Six types of thermosensitive nanogels were prepared by surfactant-free dispersion polymerization and assessed in terms of process yield, composition, and size at temperatures below and over volume phase temperature. During the diffusion of impurities, in the course of dialysis, assessed by the conductometric method, the remarkable influence of temperature and initiator concentration on the process was revealed. The release rates varied in the range between 9.63 · 10−2and 1.39 · 10−1 h−1in the first stage of the process, whereas in the second stage they were between 2.09 · 10−2and 6.28 · 10−2 h−1. The evaluated time to obtain acceptable purity of the preparation was estimated to be in the range of 18 days. More detailed research should be directed towards the influence of the structure of obtained material on the purification process.
Time-Domain Joint Parameter Estimation of Chirp Signal Based on SVR
Authors: Liu Xueqian , Yu Hongyi
Published: October 2013

Parameter estimation of chirp signal, such as instantaneous frequency (IF), instantaneous frequency rate (IFR), and initial phase (IP), arises in many applications of signal processing. During the phase-based parameter estimation, a phase unwrapping process is needed to recover the phase information correctly and impact the estimation performance remarkably. Therefore, we introduce support vector regression (SVR) to predict the variation trend of instantaneous phase and unwrap phases efficiently. Even though with that being the case, errors still exist in phase unwrapping process because of its ambiguous phase characteristic. Furthermore, we propose an SVR-based joint estimation algorithm and make it immune to these error phases by means of setting the SVR's parameters properly. Our results show that, compared with the other three algorithms of chirp signal, not only does the proposed one maintain quality capabilities at low frequencies, but also improves accuracy at high frequencies and decreases the impact with the initial phase.
The Vertebral Column, Ribs, and Sternum of the African Giant Rat (Cricetomys gambianus Waterhouse)
Authors: Olude Matthew Ayokunle , Mustapha Oluwaseun Ahmed , Ogunbunmi Temitope Kehinde , Olopade James Olukayode
Published: October 2013

Examined bones were obtained from eight adult African giant rats, Cricetomys gambianus Waterhouse. Animals used had an average body mass of 730.00 ± 41.91 gm and body length of 67.20 ± 0.05 cm. The vertebral formula was found to be C7, T13, L6, S4, Ca31–36. The lowest and highest points of the cervicothoracic curvature were at C5 and T2, respectively. The spinous process of the axis was the largest in the cervical group while others were sharp and pointed. The greatest diameter of the vertebral canal was at the atlas (0.8 cm) and the lowest at the caudal sacral bones (2 mm). The diameter of the vertebral foramen was the largest at C1 and the smallest at the S4; the foramina were negligibly indistinct caudal to the sacral vertebrae. There were 13 pairs of ribs. The first seven pairs were sternal, and six pairs were asternal of which the last 2‐3 pairs were floating ribs. The sternum was composed of deltoid‐shaped manubrium sterni, four sternebrae, and a slender processus xiphoideus. No sex‐related differences were observed. The vertebral column is adapted for strong muscular attachment and actions helping the rodent suited for speed, agility, dexterity, and strength which might enable it to overpower prey and escape predation.
Morphology, Stability, and Application of Lycopene Microcapsules Produced by Complex Coacervation
Authors: Rocha-Selmi Glaucia A. , Favaro-Trindade Carmen S. , Grosso Carlos R. F.
Published: October 2013

The interest in lycopene has increased in recent years due to studies that associate it with the reduction in risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and cancer. However, due to its high degree of unsaturation, this carotenoid is inclined to isomerize and oxidize during processing and storage, making it difficult to use in the food industry. Microencapsulation can improve this situation, increasing its stability and making incorporation into food formulations possible. Thus, the aim of this study was to microencapsulate lycopene by complex coacervation using gelatin and gum Arabic as the encapsulating agents. The microcapsules were evaluated based on the encapsulation efficiency and their morphology and then submitted to a stability test and applied in cake making. Most of the systems studied presented spherical microcapsules with defined walls. The encapsulation efficiency values were above 90%, and the average diameter of the capsules ranged from 61 to 144 μm. The stability test showed that microencapsulation offered greater protection to the lycopene as compared to its free form. The application of nonfreeze dried coacervated microcapsules in cake making was satisfactory, but the color transference was low when freezedried coacervated microcapsules were used.
Assay of OAZ1 mRNA Levels in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Combined with Application of Leukemia PCR Array Identified Relevant Gene Changes Affected by Antizyme
Authors: Wu Bingping , Wang Xing , Ma Wenli , Zheng Wenling , Jiang Li
Published: October 2013

Ornithine decarboxylase antizyme (OAZ) has recently emerged as a potential therapeutic target in various malignant tumors because it plays vital roles in cellular functions including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and genomic stability. Therefore, there is a significant interest in discovering its function in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Firstly, OAZ1 mRNA was measured by qRT-PCR in 43 cases with CML and 23 controls, and we demonstrated that it is significantly down-regulated in CML patients. To further understand its functions in CML pathogenesis, OAZ1 was overexpressed, and the human leukemia PCR array analysis was used to monitor the expression of key genes commonly involved in leukemia development, classification and therapeutic response. We found several favorable up-regulation factors including CXCL10, DAPK1 and IKZF3. In conclusion, OAZ1 may be a useful therapeutic target in CML due to its potential ability to induce erythroid differentiation and cell apoptosis. These functions were proven to be associated with several gene changes that were directly or indirectly caused by OAZ1. The mechanism of how OAZ1 affects other genes remains to be elucidated.
Cytomorphological and Morphometric Analysis of 22 Cases of Rosai-Dorfman Disease: A Large Series from a Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Mallick Saumyaranjan , Ghosh Ranajoy , Iyer Venkateswaran K. , Jain Deepali , Mathur Sandeep R.
Published: October 2013

Background: Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD) is a rare benign idiopathic histiocytic proliferation. Most commonly reported cases are lymph nodal. Only 30-40% of cases occur in extranodal sites. Although the morphological features of RDD are well documented, there is limited information about the morphometric variations in the histiocytes of this entity. Method: Twenty-two cases of RDD diagnosed on fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) were retrieved from the archives. Both Papanicolaou- and May-Grünwald-Giemsa-stained slides were available for evaluation in all cases. Nuclear area, diameter and histiocyte size were measured taking reactive histiocytes as controls. Results: Among the 22 patients (male/female ratio 3:2; age range 5-55 years, mean 26 years), 3 cases were extranodal and 19 cases were nodal. The nodal sites included cervical, axillary, inguinal and submandibular lymph nodes. The extranodal sites were the retroperitoneum, mediastinum and skin. The most common clinical presentation was enlarged lymph nodes. Cytological features included numerous large benign histiocytes with emperipolesis. All the morphometric parameters were significantly (p < 0.01) higher in RDD histiocytes than in histiocytes in the reactive lymph node. Conclusions: In view of the rarity of the disease and the variable clinical presentation in RDD, accurate diagnosis is necessary. This is the first study to document the morphometric parameters of RDD histiocytes and their comparison with histiocytes in the reactive lymph node.
Development of a New Method for the Isolation and Culture of Pulmonary Arterial Endothelial Cells from Rat Pulmonary Arteries
Authors: Peng Gongyong , Wen Xing , Shi Yu , Jiang Yongliang , Hu Guoping , Zhou Yumin , Ran Pixin
Published: October 2013

Pulmonary endothelial dysfunction plays an integral role in the pathogenesis and development of pulmonary hypertension. It is difficult and inconvenient to obtain pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (PAECs) from humans and large animals. Some methods for the isolation of PAECs from rats require complex equipment and expensive reagents. In this study, we describe a new method of obtaining cultures of PAECs isolated from rat pulmonary arteries with Chinese acupuncture needles. We acquired PAECs in 5 steps. These were: the isolation of pulmonary arteries, exposure of endothelium, enzymatic digestion, concentration of resuspended pellets and incubation. PAECs were characterized by morphological activity and by immunostaining for von Willebrand factor, CD31 and CD34, but not for α-smooth muscle actin, smooth muscle myosin heavy chain or CD90/Thy-1. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy was carried out, confirming the presence of Weibel-Palade bodies that are characteristic ultrastructures of vascular endothelial cells. In conclusion, we established a simple and economical technique to isolate and culture PAECs from rat pulmonary arteries. These PAECs exhibit features consistent with vascular endothelial cells, and they could subsequently be used to study pathophysiological mechanisms involving the pulmonary arterial endothelium.
Excess Risk of Death Increases with Time from First Dialysis for Patients on the Waiting List: Implications for Renal Allograft Allocation Policy
Authors: Bouaoun Liacine , Villar Emmanuel , Ecochard René , Couchoud Cécile
Published: October 2013

Background: Subgroups of patients registered on a kidney transplant waiting list have higher than usual mortality levels. This study used data from the French Renal Epidemiology and Information Network (REIN) Registry to quantify the impact over time of various comorbidities on the excess risk of death among patients on the waiting list. Methods: Lexis diagrams were used to analyze time since onset of end-stage renal disease and time since registration on the waiting list. The number of excess deaths was calculated by comparison with the number of expected deaths in the general population of the same age and sex. Results: During 45,013 person-years of follow-up, 7,224 patients died, 5,956 (82%) more than expected relative to the general population. There were 101 deaths among wait-listed dialysis patients, 76 more than expected. The excess risk of death increased by 45% per additional year on the waiting list (18-79%, p = 0.0005). Time from end-stage renal disease onset until list registration (p = 0.004), time since registration (p < 0.001), age >65 years (p = 0.008), the presence of a primary renal disease (p = 0.028), and the number of comorbidities (p = 0.035) were independent predictors of death while on the waiting list. Conclusions: The excess risk of death while on the waiting list increased faster in patients with comorbidities. These results require consideration of ways to accelerate access to transplantation in high-risk patients.
Cognitive Activities and Instrumental Activity of Daily Living in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Doi Takehiko , Shimada Hiroyuki , Makizako Hyuma , Lee Sangyoon , Park Hyuntae , Tsutsumimoto Kota , Uemura Kazuki , Yoshida Daisuke , Anan Yuya , Suzuki Takao
Published: October 2013

Aims: This study aimed to identify differences in the implementation of cognitive activities and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) between healthy individuals and subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Methods: The study included 2,498 cognitively healthy subjects (mean age, 71.2 ± 5.1 years) and 809 MCI subjects (mean age, 71.8 ± 5.4 years). The subjects were interviewed regarding their participation in cognitive activities and the implementation of IADLs. Results: We found a significant association between participation in any cognitive activities (p < 0.001), using a bus or a train (p < 0.001), and MCI. After adjusting for covariates, cognitive activity of any type remained significantly associated with MCI (p < 0.005) but not with the implementation of IADLs. Conclusions: Our study revealed that greater participation in cognitive activity was associated with lower odds of MCI. Participation in cognitive activities may reflect differences between healthy and MCI subjects. To clarify the causal relationship between cognitive activities and MCI, further studies are required.