bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Morbidity of Reoperative Surgery for Recurrent Benign Nodular Goitre: Impact of Previous Unilateral Thyroid Lobectomy versus Subtotal Thyroidectomy
Authors: Rudolph Navin , Dominguez Claudia , Beaulieu Anthony , De Wailly Pierre , Kraimps Jean-Louis
Published: January 2014

Background. Subtotal thyroidectomy (STT) was previously considered the gold standard in the surgical management of multinodular goitre despite its propensity for recurrence. Our aim was to assess whether prior STT or unilateral lobectomy was associated with increased reoperative morbidity.Methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted extracting data from our endocrine surgical database for the period from January 1991 to June 2006. Two patient groups were defined: Group 1 consisted of patients with previous unilateral thyroid lobectomy; Group 2 had undergone previous STT. Specific outcomes investigated were transient and permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury and hypoparathyroidism.Results. 494 reoperative cases were performed which consisted of 259 patients with previous unilateral lobectomy (Group 1) and 235 patients with previous subtotal thyroidectomy (Group 2). A statistically significant increase relating to previous STT was demonstrated in both permanent RLN injury (0.77% versus 3.4%, RR 4.38,P=0.038) and permanent hypoparathyroidism (1.5% versus 5.1%, RR 3.14,P=0.041). Transient nerve injury and hypocalcaemia incidence was comparable.Conclusions. Reoperative surgery following subtotal thyroidectomy is associated with a significantly increased risk of permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and hypoparathyroidism when compared with previous unilateral thyroidectomy. Subtotal thyroidectomy should therefore no longer be recommended in the management of multinodular goitre.
Habitat Preferences and Growth ofRuditapes bruguieri(Bivalvia: Veneridae) at the Northern Boundary of Its Range
Authors: Silina Alla V.
Published: January 2014

This work is the first attempt to study growth and some morphological parameters of the clamRuditapes bruguieri, as well as its habitat preferences. It is found thatR. bruguierilives on bottom sediments including pebble and coarse- and medium-grained sand with a slight admixture of silt. At the study area, this bivalve inhabits sea waters with good aeration, stable oceanic water salinity, and a high oxygen concentration. The annual fluctuations of the water temperature from 13-14°C (in winter) to 22–29°C (in summer) are close to the threshold temperature values, within which the species can exist. Near the boundary of the species range, along the Jeju Island coasts, south of Republic of Korea, 83.8% of all clams die during the coldest period of the year. Here, annual rings are formed onR. bruguierishells during winter. The maximum age ofR. bruguieri, determined during the study, is 6.5 years, but the clam samples contain mainly individuals at 3.0–3.5 years of age (34%). The largest clam dimensions are 36.0 × 26.5 mm (length × height of shell). At the study area, a usual shell length is 20.0–32.0 mm (75% of all the collected individuals).
Mathematical Model of Solid Food Pasteurization by Ohmic Heating: Influence of Process Parameters
Authors: Marra Francesco
Published: January 2014

Pasteurization of a solid food undergoing ohmic heating has been analysed by means of a mathematical model, involving the simultaneous solution of Laplace’s equation, which describes the distribution of electrical potential within a food, the heat transfer equation, using a source term involving the displacement of electrical potential, the kinetics of inactivation of microorganisms likely to be contaminating the product. In the model, thermophysical and electrical properties as function of temperature are used. Previous works have shown the occurrence of heat loss from food products to the external environment during ohmic heating. The current model predicts that, when temperature gradients are established in the proximity of the outer ohmic cell surface, more cold areas are present at junctions of electrodes with lateral sample surface. For these reasons, colder external shells are the critical areas to be monitored, instead of internal points (typically geometrical center) as in classical pure conductive heat transfer. Analysis is carried out in order to understand the influence of pasteurisation process parameters on this temperature distribution. A successful model helps to improve understanding of these processing phenomenon, which in turn will help to reduce the magnitude of the temperature differential within the product and ultimately provide a more uniformly pasteurized product.
Feasibility of Endoscopy-Assisted Laparoscopic Full-Thickness Resection for Superficial Duodenal Neoplasms
Authors: Ohata Ken , Murakami Masahiko , Yamazaki Kimiyasu , Nonaka Kouichi , Misumi Nobutsugu , Tashima Tomoaki , Minato Yohei , Shozushima Meiko , Mitsui Takahiro , Matsuhashi Nobuyuki , Fu Kuangi
Published: January 2014

Background. Superficial duodenal neoplasms (SDNs) are a challenging target in the digestive tract. Surgical resection is invasive, and it is difficult to determine the site and extent of the lesion from outside the intestine and resect it locally. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has scarcely been utilized in the treatment of duodenal tumors because of technical difficulties and possible delayed perforation due to the action of digestive juices. Thus, no standard treatments for SDNs have been established. To challenge this issue, we elaborated endoscopy-assisted laparoscopic full-thickness resection (EALFTR) and analyzed its feasibility and safety.Methods. Twenty-four SDNs in 22 consecutive patients treated by EALFTR between January 2011 and July 2012 were analyzed retrospectively.Results. All lesions were removed en bloc. The lateral and vertical margins of the specimens were negative for tumor cells in all cases. The mean sizes of the resected specimens and lesions were 28.9 mm (SD ± 10.5) and 13.3 mm (SD ± 11.6), respectively. The mean operation time and intraoperative estimated blood loss were 133 min (SD ± 45.2) and 16 ml (SD ± 21.1), respectively. Anastomotic leakage occurred in three patients (13.6%) postoperatively, but all were minor leakage and recovered conservatively. Anastomotic stenosis or bleeding did not occur.Conclusions. EALFTR can be a safe and minimally invasive treatment option for SDNs. However, the number of cases in this study was small, and further accumulations of cases and investigation are necessary.
The Effect of Crumb Rubber Particle Size to the Optimum Binder Content for Open Graded Friction Course
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd Rasdan , Katman Herda Yati , Karim Mohamed Rehan , Koting Suhana , Mashaan Nuha S.
Published: January 2014

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the relations of rubber size, rubber content, and binder content in determination of optimum binder content for open graded friction course (OGFC). Mix gradation type B as specified in Specification for Porous Asphalt produced by the Road Engineering Association of Malaysia (REAM) was used in this study. Marshall specimens were prepared with four different sizes of rubber, namely, 20 mesh size [0.841 mm], 40 mesh [0.42 mm], 80 mesh [0.177 mm], and 100 mesh [0.149 mm] with different concentrations of rubberised bitumen (4%, 8%, and 12%) and different percentages of binder content (4%–7%). The appropriate optimum binder content is then selected according to the results of the air voids, binder draindown, and abrasion loss test. Test results found that crumb rubber particle size can affect the optimum binder content for OGFC.
Interpolation by Hankel Translates of a Basis Function: Inversion Formulas and Polynomial Bounds
Authors: Arteaga Cristian , Marrero Isabel
Published: January 2014

Forμ≥−1/2, the authors have developed elsewhere a scheme for interpolation by Hankel translates of a basis functionΦin certain spaces of continuous functionsYn(n∈ℕ) depending on a weightw. The functionsΦandware connected through the distributional identityt4n(hμ′Φ)(t)=1/w(t), wherehμ′denotes the generalized Hankel transform of orderμ. In this paper, we use the projection operators associated with an appropriate direct sum decomposition of the Zemanian spaceℋμin order to derive explicit representations of the derivativesSμmΦand their Hankel transforms, the former ones being valid whenm∈ℤ+is restricted to a suitable interval for whichSμmΦis continuous. Here,Sμmdenotes themth iterate of the Bessel differential operatorSμifm∈ℕ, whileSμ0is the identity operator. These formulas, which can be regarded as inverses of generalizations of the equation(hμ′Φ)(t)=1/t4nw(t), will allow us to get some polynomial bounds for such derivatives. Corresponding results are obtained for the members of the interpolation spaceYn.
Modified Method of Characteristics Combined with Finite Volume Element Methods for Incompressible Miscible Displacement Problems in Porous Media
Authors: Kumar Sarvesh , Yadav Sangita
Published: January 2014

The incompressible miscible displacement problem in porous media is modeled by a coupled system of two nonlinear partial differential equations, the pressure-velocity equation and the concentration equation. In this paper, we present a mixed finite volume element method (FVEM) for the approximation of the pressure-velocity equation. Since modified method of characteristics (MMOC) minimizes the grid orientation effect, for the approximation of the concentration equation, we apply a standard FVEM combined with MMOC. A priori error estimates in L∞(L2) norm are derived for velocity, pressure and concentration. Numerical results are presented to substantiate the validity of the theoretical results.
Decontamination of Surfaces Exposed to Carbon‐Based Nanotubes and Nanomaterials
Authors: Su Paul , Haghpanah Babak , Doerr William W. , Karimi Zahra , Hassan Syed , Gritzo Louis , Busnaina Ahmed A. , Vaziri Ashkan
Published: January 2014

Contamination of surfaces by nanomaterials can happen due to accidental spillage and release or gradual accumulation during processing or handling. Considering the increasingly wide use of nanomaterials in industry and research labs and also taking into account the diversity of physical and chemical properties of different nanomaterials (such as solubility, aggregation/agglomeration, and surface reactivity), there is a pressing need to define reliable nanomaterial‐specific decontamination guidelines. In this paper, we propose and investigate a potential method for surface decontamination of carbon‐based nanomaterials using solvent cleaning and wipes. The results show that the removal efficiency for single‐ and multiwalled carbon nanotubes from silicon wafers sprayed with water‐surfactant solutions prior to mechanical wiping is greater than 90% and 95%, respectively. The need for further studies to understand the mechanisms of nanomaterial removal from surfaces and development of standard techniques for surface decontamination of nanomaterials is highlighted.
Reactivation of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis after Renal Transplantation: A Case Report
Authors: Mortazavi Hossein , Salehi Mehrnaz , Kamyab Kambiz
Published: January 2014

A 45-year-old man with reactivation of previously existing and subsiding cutaneous leishmaniasis on his wrist and lower leg (shin) after renal transplantation was admitted to our dermatology service on March 2008. He presented to us with two huge tumoral and cauliflower-like lesions. Skin smear and histopathology of skin showed leishman bodies and confirmed the diagnosis. After renal transplantation, he received cyclosporine plus prednisolone to induce immunosuppression and reduce the probability of transplant rejection. After immunosuppressive therapy, reactivation of cutaneous leishmaniasis with the above presentation took place. The patient responded to 800 mg/day intravenous sodium stibogluconate for 3 weeks plus local cryotherapy. Systemic plus local therapy along with reducing the doses of immunosuppressive drugs led to improvement of lesions. Reactivation of leishmaniasis after immunosuppression has been rarely reported.
A Hybrid Multiobjective Discrete Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for a SLA‐Aware Service Composition Problem
Authors: Yin Hao , Zhang Changsheng , Zhang Bin , Guo Ying , Liu Tingting
Published: January 2014

For SLA‐aware service composition problem (SSC), an optimization model for this algorithm is built, and a hybrid multiobjective discrete particle swarm optimization algorithm (HMDPSO) is also proposed in this paper. According to the characteristic of this problem, a particle updating strategy is designed by introducing crossover operator. In order to restrain particle swarm’s premature convergence and increase its global search capacity, the swarm diversity indicator is introduced and a particle mutation strategy is proposed to increase the swarm diversity. To accelerate the process of obtaining the feasible particle position, a local search strategy based on constraint domination is proposed and incorporated into the proposed algorithm. At last, some parameters in the algorithm HMDPSO are analyzed and set with relative proper values, and then the algorithm HMDPSO and the algorithm HMDPSO+ incorporated by local search strategy are compared with the recently proposed related algorithms on different scale cases. The results show that algorithm HMDPSO+ can solve the SSC problem more effectively.
The Fabrication and Characterization of PCL/Rice Husk Derived Bioactive Glass‐Ceramic Composite Scaffolds
Authors: Naghizadeh Farnaz , Sultana Naznin , Abdul Kadir Mohammed Rafiq , Tengku Md Shihabudin Tengku Muzaffar , Hussain Rafaqat , Kamarul Tunku
Published: January 2014

The present study was conducted to fabricate a 3D scaffold using polycaprolactone (PCL) and silicate based bioactive glass‐ceramic (R‐SBgC). Different concentrations of R‐SBgC prepared from rice husk ash (RHA) were combined with PCL to fabricate a composite scaffold using thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) method. The products were then characterized using SEM and EDX. The results demonstrated that R‐SBgC in PCL matrix produced a bioactive material which has highly porous structure with interconnected porosities. There appears to be a relationship between the increase in R‐SBgC concentration and increased material density and compressive modulus; however, increasing R‐SBgC concentration result in reduced scaffold porosity. In conclusion, it is possible to fabricate a PCL/bioactive glass‐ceramic composite from processed rice husk. Varying the R‐SBgC concentrations can control the properties of this material, which is useful in the development of the ideal scaffold intended for use as a bone substitute in nonload bearing sites.
Contribution of Co-Skewness and Co-Kurtosis of the Higher Moment CAPM for Finding the Technical Efficiency
Authors: Hasan Md. Zobaer , Kamil Anton Abdulbasah
Published: January 2014

The objective of this paper is to present the technical efficiency of individual companies and their respective groups of Bangladesh stock market (i.e., Dhaka Stock Exchange, DSE) by using two risk factors (co-skewness and co-kurtosis) as the additional input variables in the Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA). The co-skewness and co-kurtosis are derived from the Higher Moment Capital Asset Pricing Model (H-CAPM). To investigate the contribution of these two factors, two types of technical efficiency are derived: (1) technical efficiency with considering co-skewness and co-kurtosis (WSK) and (2) technical efficiency without considering co-skewness and co-kurtosis (WOSK). By comparing these two types of technical efficiency, it is noticed that the technical efficiency of WSK is higher than the technical efficiency of WOSK for the individual companies and their respective groups. As per available literature in the context Bangladesh stock market, no study has been conducted thus far to measure technical efficiency of companies and their respective groups by using the risk factors which are derived from the H-CAPM. In this research, the link between H-CAPM and SFA is established for measuring technical efficiency and it is believed that the findings of this study may be applied to other emerging stock markets.
Sex-Pheromone-Mediated Mating Disruption Technology for the Oriental Fruit Moth,Grapholita molesta(Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae): Overview and Prospects
Authors: Kong Wei N. , Li J. , Fan Ren J. , Li Sheng C. , Ma Rui Y.
Published: January 2014

A great deal of progress has been made over the last three decades in research on pheromone-mediated mating disruption technology for the oriental fruit moth,Grapholita molesta(Busck). Pheromones can interrupt normal orientation, and the most likely mechanism of pheromone disruption, competitive-attraction (false-plume following), invokes competition between point sources of pheromone formulation and females for males. This technology, performed by broadcasting pheromones into orchards to disrupt mate finding, has been successfully implemented in oriental fruit moth control. Reservoir-style dispensers made of polyethylene tubes, which release pheromone throughout the full growing season, are the current industry standard. Although reasonably effective, they require labor-intensive hand application. Recently, a new formulation, paraffin wax, which maximizes competition between point sources of synthetic pheromone and feral females for males, was shown to have high disruption performance. As this formulation is highly effective, inexpensive, and easy to produce, further study and development are advisable. Increased understanding of the principles of mating disruption will aid in the design of more effective dispensers. Continued research is needed to meet grower concerns with regard to risk, efficacy, and cost and to identify other semiochemicals that can be applied to this delivery system. Greater knowledge of the integration of different biological control methods is therefore essential.
G-Protein Coupled Receptor-Evoked Glutamate Exocytosis from Astrocytes: Role of Prostaglandins
Authors: Cali Corrado , Lopatar Jan , Petrelli Francesco , Pucci Luca , Bezzi Paola
Published: January 2014

Astrocytes are highly secretory cells, participating in rapid brain communication by releasing glutamate. Recent evidences have suggested that this process is largely mediated by Ca2+-dependent regulated exocytosis of VGLUT-positive vesicles. Here by taking advantage of VGLUT1-pHluorin and TIRF illumination, we characterized mechanisms of glutamate exocytosis evoked by endogenous transmitters (glutamate and ATP), which are known to stimulate Ca2+elevations in astrocytes. At first we characterized the VGLUT1-pHluorin expressing vesicles and found that VGLUT1-positive vesicles were a specific population of small synaptic-like microvesicles containing glutamate but which do not express VGLUT2. Endogenous mediators evoked a burst of exocytosis through activation of G-protein coupled receptors. Subsequent glutamate exocytosis was reduced by about 80% upon pharmacological blockade of the prostaglandin-forming enzyme, cyclooxygenase. On the other hand, receptor stimulation was accompanied by extracellular release of prostaglandin E2(PGE2). Interestingly, administration of exogenous PGE2producedper serapid, store-dependent burst exocytosis of glutamatergic vesicles in astrocytes. Finally, when PGE2-neutralizing antibody was added to cell medium, transmitter-evoked exocytosis was again significantly reduced (by about 50%). Overall these data indicate that cyclooxygenase products are responsible for a major component of glutamate exocytosis in astrocytes and that large part of such component is sustained by autocrine/paracrine action of PGE2.
Effect of Coadministration of Neurovite and Lamivudine on the Histomorphology of the Cerebellum of Wistar Rats
Authors: Peter A. I. , Ekong M. B. , Davies K. , Azu O. O. , Bassey R. B. , Ugwu L. O. , Umoh I. U.
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Lamivudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor antiretroviral agent used in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection. This study was to investigate the effects of coadministration of neurovite and lamivudine on the histomorphology of the cerebellum of Wistar rats. Materials and Methods. Twenty Wistar rats were divided equally into four groups. Group A animals were the control treated with distilled water. Groups B, C, and D animals were treated, respectively, with therapeutic dose of lamivudine (4.28 mg/kg), a combination of lamivudine (4.28 mg/kg) and neurovite (7.05 mg/kg), and neurovite (7.05 mg/kg) alone, daily. The rats were sacrificed using chloroform inhalation, processed, and stained using H&E method. Results. There was severe cellular degeneration with dystrophic changes, vacuolization in the molecular and granular layers, and aggregation of swollen Purkinje cells in group B animals compared with group C animals which showed only slight cellular dystrophy and inflammation. The mean cellular population was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the treatment groups compared with the control. Conclusion. There was amelioration of damage of the cerebellum in the animals treated with neurovite and lamivudine combination compared to animals treated with only lamivudine. Therefore, there is need to give neurovite to patients on lamivudine therapy.
Detecting Image Splicing Using Merged Features in Chroma Space
Authors: Xu Bo , Liu Guangjie , Dai Yuewei
Published: January 2014

Image splicing is an image editing method to copy a part of an image and paste it onto another image, and it is commonly followed by postprocessing such as local/global blurring, compression, and resizing. To detect this kind of forgery, the image rich models, a feature set successfully used in the steganalysis is evaluated on the splicing image dataset at first, and the dominant submodel is selected as the first kind of feature. The selected feature and the DCT Markov features are used together to detect splicing forgery in the chroma channel, which is convinced effective in splicing detection. The experimental results indicate that the proposed method can detect splicing forgeries with lower error rate compared to the previous literature.
Dynamic Fracture in Thin Shells Using Meshfree Method
Authors: Shie Y.
Published: January 2014

We present a meshfree approach to model dynamic fracture in thin structures. Material failure is modeled based on a stress‐based criterion and viscoplastic is used to describe the material behavior in the bulk material. Material fracture is simply modeled by breaking bonds between neighboring particles. The method is applied to fracture of cylindrical thin structures under explosive loading. The loading is modelled by a pressure‐time history. Comparisons between the computational results and experimental data illustrate the validity and robustness of the proposed method.
PCL/PHBV Microparticles as Innovative Carriers for Oral Controlled Release of Manidipine Dihydrochloride
Authors: Barboza Fernanda Malaquias , Machado Willian Moreira , Olchanheski Junior Luiz Renato , Padilha de Paula Josiane , Zawadzki Sônia Faria , Fernandes Daniel , Farago Paulo Vitor
Published: January 2014

Microparticles of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) containing manidipine dihydrochloride (MAN) were successfully prepared by the simple emulsion/solvent evaporation method. All formulations showed loading efficiency rates greater than 80% and average particle size less than 8 μm. Formulations had spherical shape with smooth and porous surface for PCL and PHBV, respectively. According to Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, initial components were not chemically modified during microencapsulation. X-ray diffraction patterns and differential scanning calorimetry demonstrated that this process led to drug amorphization.In vitrodissolution studies showed that all microparticles prolonged MAN release, mainly which one obtained using PCL that contained 5% of drug loaded (PCL-M5). Animal studies demonstrated that formulationPCL-M5was able to keep the variation of mean arterial pressure after phenylephrine administration up to 24 hours. These data confirmed the sustained antihypertensive effect of the investigated microparticles. Results provided an experimental basis for using formulationPCL-M5as a feasible carrier for oral controlled release of MAN intended for treating high blood pressure.
Effect of Equal Daily Doses Achieved by Different Power Densities of Low-Level Laser Therapy at 635 nm on Open Skin Wound Healing in Normal and Diabetic Rats
Authors: Kilík Róbert , Lakyová Lucia , Sabo Ján , Kruzliak Peter , Lacjaková Kamila , Vasilenko Tomáš , Vidová Martina , Longauer František , Radoňak Jozef
Published: January 2014

Background and Objective.Despite the fact that the molecular mechanism of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is not yet known, the exploitation of phototherapy in clinical medicine and surgery is of great interest. The present study investigates the effects of LLLT on open skin wound healing in normal and diabetic rats.Materials and Methods.Four round full-thickness skin wounds on dorsum were performed in male adult nondiabetic (n=24) and diabetic (n=24) Sprague–Dawley rats. AlGaInP (635 nm, wavelength; 5 J/cm2, daily dose) was used to deliver power densities of 1, 5, and 15 mW/cm2three times daily until euthanasia.Results.PMNL infiltration was lower in the irradiated groups (15 mW/cm2). The synthesis and organisation of collagen fibres were consecutively enhanced in the 5 mW/cm2and 15 mW/cm2groups compared to the others in nondiabetic rats. In the diabetic group the only significant difference was recorded in the ratio PMNL/Ma at 15 mW/cm2. A significant difference in the number of newly formed capillaries in the irradiated group (5, 15 mW/cm2) was recorded on day six after injury compared to the control group.Conclusion.LLLT confers a protective effect against excessive inflammatory tissue response; it stimulates neovascularization and the early formation of collagen fibres.
Changes in Bacterial Population of Gastrointestinal Tract of Weaned Pigs Fed with Different Additives
Authors: Roca Mercè , Nofrarías Miquel , Majó Natàlia , Pérez de Rozas Ana María , Segalés Joaquim , Castillo Marisol , Martín-Orúe Susana María , Espinal Anna , Pujols Joan , Badiola Ignacio
Published: January 2014

This study aimed to provide novel insights into the gastrointestinal microbial diversity from different gastrointestinal locations in weaning piglets using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Additionally, the effect of different feed additives was analyzed. Thirty-two piglets were fed with four different diets: a control group and three enriched diets, with avilamycin, sodium butyrate, and a plant extract mixture. Digesta samples were collected from eight different gastrointestinal segments of each animal and the bacterial population was analysed by a PCR-RFLP technique that uses 16S rDNA gene sequences. Bacterial diversity was assessed by calculating the number of bands and the Shannon-Weaver index. Dendrograms were constructed to estimate the similarity of bacterial populations. A higher bacterial diversity was detected in large intestine compared to small intestine. Among diets, the most relevant microbial diversity differences were found between sodium butyrate and plant extract mixture. Proximal jejunum, ileum, and proximal colon were identified as those segments that could be representative of microbial diversity in pig gut. Results indicate that PCR-RFLP technique allowed detecting modifications on the gastrointestinal microbial ecology in pigs fed with different additives, such as increased biodiversity by sodium butyrate in feed.
Effects of Scheduled Exercise on Cancer-Related Fatigue in Women with Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Husebø Anne Marie Lunde , Dyrstad Sindre Mikal , Mjaaland Ingvil , Søreide Jon Arne , Bru Edvin
Published: January 2014

While physical activity during cancer treatment is found beneficial for breast cancer patients, evidence indicates ambiguous findings concerning effects of scheduled exercise programs on treatment-related symptoms. This study investigated effects of a scheduled home-based exercise intervention in breast cancer patients during adjuvant chemotherapy, on cancer-related fatigue, physical fitness, and activity level. Sixty-seven women were randomized to an exercise intervention group (n=33, performed strength training 3x/week and 30 minutes brisk walking/day) and a control group (n=34, performed their regular physical activity level). Data collection was performed at baseline, at completion of chemotherapy (Post1), and 6-month postchemotherapy (Post2). Exercise levels were slightly higher in the scheduled exercise group than in the control group. In both groups, cancer-related fatigue increased at Post1but returned to baseline at Post2. Physical fitness and activity levels decreased at Post1but were significantly improved at Post2. Significant differences between intervention and control groups were not found. The findings suggest that generally recommended physical activity levels are enough to relief cancer-related fatigue and restore physical capacity in breast cancer patients during adjuvant chemotherapy, although one cannot rule out that results reflect diminishing treatment side effects over time.
A Signature-Based Data Security Technique for Energy-Efficient Data Aggregation in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Yoon Min , Jang Miyoung , Kim Hyeong-Il , Chang Jae-Woo
Published: January 2014

Data aggregation techniques have been widely used in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) to solve the energy constraint problems of sensor nodes. They can conserve the significant amount of energy by reducing data packet transmission costs. However, many data aggregation applications require privacy and integrity protection of the real data while transmitting data from the sensing nodes to a sink node. The existing schemes for supporting both privacy and integrity, that is, iCDPA, and iPDA, suffer from high communication cost, high computation cost, and data propagation delay. To resolve the problems, we propose a signature-based data security technique for protecting sensitive data aggregation in WSNs. To support privacy-preserving data aggregation and integrity checking, our technique makes use of the additive property of complex numbers. Out of two parts of a complex number, the real part is used to hide the sampled data of a sensor node from its neighboring nodes and adversaries, whereas the imaginary part is used for data integrity checking at both data aggregators and the sink node. Through a performance analysis, we prove that our privacy-preserving data aggregation scheme outperforms the existing schemes up to 50% in terms of communication and computation overheads as well as up to 3 times in terms of integrity checking and data propagation delay.
Applications of Bregman-Opial Property to Bregman Nonspreading Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: Naraghirad Eskandar , Wong Ngai-Ching , Yao Jen-Chih
Published: January 2014

The Opial property of Hilbert spaces and some other special Banach spaces is a powerful tool in establishing fixed point theorems for nonexpansive and, more generally, nonspreading mappings. Unfortunately, not every Banach space shares the Opial property. However, every Banach space has a similar Bregman-Opial property for Bregman distances. In this paper, using Bregman distances, we introduce the classes of Bregman nonspreading mappings and investigate the Mann and Ishikawa iterations for these mappings. We establish weak and strong convergence theorems for Bregman nonspreading mappings.
Integer Semigroups Associated with Dumont-Thomas Numeration Systems
Authors: Sirvent Víctor F.
Published: January 2014

Given a primitive substitution, we define different binary operations on infinite subsets of the nonnegative integers. These binary operations are defined with the help of the Dumont-Thomas numeration system; that is, a numeration system associated with the substitution. We give conditions for these semigroups to have an identity element. We show that they are not finitely generated. These semigroups define actions on the set of positive integers. We describe the orbits of these actions. We also estimate the density of these sets as subsets of the positive integers.
Preparation and Mechanical Properties of Graphene Oxide: Cement Nanocomposites
Authors: Babak Fakhim , Abolfazl Hassani , Alimorad Rashidi , Parviz Ghodousi
Published: January 2014

We investigate the performance of graphene oxide (GO) in improving mechanical properties of cement composites. A polycarboxylate superplasticizer was used to improve the dispersion of GO flakes in the cement. The mechanical strength of graphene-cement nanocomposites containing 0.1–2 wt% GO and 0.5 wt% superplasticizer was measured and compared with that of cement prepared without GO. We found that the tensile strength of the cement mortar increased with GO content, reaching 1.5%, a 48% increase in tensile strength. Ultra high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) used to observe the fracture surface of samples containing 1.5 wt% GO indicated that the nano-GO flakes were well dispersed in the matrix, and no aggregates were observed. FE-SEM observation also revealed good bonding between the GO surfaces and the surrounding cement matrix. In addition, XRD diffraction data showed growth of the calcium silicate hydrates (C-S-H) gels in GO cement mortar compared with the normal cement mortar.
Analytical Solution for the Free Vibration Analysis of Delaminated Timoshenko Beams
Authors: Jafari-Talookolaei Ramazan-Ali , Abedi Maryam
Published: January 2014

This work presents a method to find the exact solutions for the free vibration analysis of a delaminated beam based on the Timoshenko type with different boundary conditions. The solutions are obtained by the method of Lagrange multipliers in which the free vibration problem is posed as a constrained variational problem. The Legendre orthogonal polynomials are used as the beam eigenfunctions. Natural frequencies and mode shapes of various Timoshenko beams are presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the methodology.
Microsatellites in the Genome of the Edible Mushroom,Volvariella volvacea
Authors: Wang Ying , Chen Mingjie , Wang Hong , Wang Jing-Fang , Bao Dapeng
Published: January 2014

Using bioinformatics software and database, we have characterized the microsatellite pattern in theV. volvaceagenome and compared it with microsatellite patterns found in the genomes of four other edible fungi:Coprinopsis cinerea,Schizophyllum commune,Agaricus bisporus,andPleurotus ostreatus. A total of 1346 microsatellites have been identified, with mono-nucleotides being the most frequent motif. The relative abundance of microsatellites was lower in coding regions with 21 No./Mb. However, the microsatellites in theV. volvaceagene models showed a greater tendency to be located in the CDS regions. There was also a higher preponderance of trinucleotide repeats, especially in the kinase genes, which implied a possible role in phenotypic variation. Among the five fungal genomes, microsatellite abundance appeared to be unrelated to genome size. Furthermore, the short motifs (mono- to tri-nucleotides) outnumbered other categories although these differed in proportion. Data analysis indicated a possible relationship between the most frequent microsatellite types and the genetic distance between the five fungal genomes.
NADPH Oxidase 1 and Its Derived Reactive Oxygen Species Mediated Tissue Injury and Repair
Authors: Fu Xiu-Jun , Peng Ying-Bo , Hu Yi-Ping , Shi You-Zhen , Yao Min , Zhang Xiong
Published: January 2014

Reactive oxygen species are mostly viewed to cause oxidative damage to various cells and induce organ dysfunction after ischemia-reperfusion injury. However, they are also considered as crucial molecules for cellular signal transduction in biology. NADPH oxidase, whose only function is reactive oxygen species production, has been extensively investigated in many cell types especially phagocytes. The deficiency of NADPH oxidase extends the process of inflammation and delays tissue repair, which causes chronic granulomatous disease in patients. NADPH oxidase 1, one member of the NADPH oxidase family, is not only constitutively expressed in a variety of tissues, but also induced to increase expression in both mRNA and protein levels under many circumstances. NADPH oxidase 1 and its derived reactive oxygen species are suggested to be able to regulate inflammation reaction, cell proliferation and migration, and extracellular matrix synthesis, which contribute to the processes of tissue injury and repair.
Investigation of the Microstructural and Thermoelectric Properties of the (GeTe) 0.95(Bi2Te3) 0.05 Composition for Thermoelectric Power Generation Applications
Authors: Weintraub Lior , Davidow Joseph , Tunbridge Jonathan , Dixon Richard , Reece Michael John , Ning Huanpo , Agote Iñigo , Gelbstein Yaniv
Published: January 2014

In the frame of the current research, the p‐type Bi2Te3 doped (GeTe)0.95(Bi2Te3)0.05 alloy composed of hot pressed consolidated submicron structured powder was investigated. The influence of the process parameters (i.e., powder particles size and hot pressing conditions) on both reduction of the lattice thermal conductivity and electronic optimization is described in detail. Very high maximal ZT values of up to ∼1.6 were obtained and correlated to the microstructural characteristics. Based on the various involved mechanisms, a potential route for further enhancement of the ZT values of the investigated composition is proposed.
Secondary Hemophagocytic Syndrome Associated with Richter’s Transformation in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: El-Haj Nura , Gonsalves Wilson I. , Gupta Vinay , Smeltzer Jacob P. , Parikh Sameer A. , Singh Preet P. , Gangat Naseema
Published: January 2014

Hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) is an extremely rare condition arising from the overactivation of one’s own immune system. It results in excessive inflammation and tissue destruction. Prompt initiation of treatment is warranted in either scenario in order to decrease mortality. Most cases are triggered by infectious agents, malignancy, or drugs. We describe the first case of a CLL patient presenting with HPS due to acquisition of EBV-related large cell lymphoma in the setting of profound immunodeficiency.
Analysis of Equation of States for the Suitability at High Pressure: MgO as an Example
Authors: Kholiya Kuldeep , Chandra Jeewan , Verma Swati
Published: January 2014

A simple theoretical model is developed to study the high pressure behavior of solids and is applied to evaluate the pressure for MgO in case of large compression along with Shanker, Tait, Vinet, and Birch-Murnaghan equation of states (EOSs). These EOSs are also tested for the basic requirements revealed from the fundamental thermodynamics for solids in the limit of extreme compressions, as given by Stacey. It is found that for the high pressure compression behavior of MgO the present model, Tait, Vinet, and Birch-Murnaghan EOSs give the results compatible with the experimental data. It has also been found that in the regime of ultrahigh pressure the present model and Birch-Murnaghan EOS satisfy the Stacey criterion.
A Real-Time Apple Grading System Using Multicolor Space
Authors: Toylan Hayrettin , Kuscu Hilmi
Published: January 2014

This study was focused on the multicolor space which provides a better specification of the color and size of the apple in an image. In the study, a real-time machine vision system classifying apples into four categories with respect to color and size was designed. In the analysis, different color spaces were used. As a result, 97% identification success for the red fields of the apple was obtained depending on the values of the parameter “a” of CIEL*a*b*color space. Similarly, 94% identification success for the yellow fields was obtained depending on the values of the parameteryof CIEXYZcolor space. With the designed system, three kinds of apples (Golden, Starking, and Jonagold) were investigated by classifying them into four groups with respect to two parameters, color and size. Finally, 99% success rate was achieved in the analyses conducted for 595 apples.
Total Ischemic Time as an Independent Predictor of Response to Stem Cell Therapy in Patients with ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Lim Mary , Arslan Zekeriya , Cai Chunyan , Kim Christopher Y. , Geng Yong-Jian , Denktas Ali E.
Published: January 2014

The selection criteria for bone marrow stem cell (BMSC) therapy are not well
established for ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. This investigation
seeks to utilize total ischemic time (TIT), time of symptom onset to percutaneous coronary intervention
(PCI), as a criterion for giving BMSC to STEMI patients. A meta-analysis and metaregression were conducted to
evaluate improvement of LVEF with BMSC and its association with TIT (<6 and ≥6 hours) and
baseline LVEF (<45% and ≥45%) at short (3–6 months) and long term (>6 months) followup. At short term, BMSC allowed improvement of LVEF with prolonged TIT (6.62%, 95% CI, 2.26 to 10.98 for <45%; 6.13%, 95% CI, 2.59 to 9.67 for ≥45%). Similarly, for long term, receiving BMSC allowed significant improvement of LVEF for prolonged TIT (9.19%, 95% CI, 2.34 to 16.05 for <45%; 7.64%, 95% CI, 3.72 to 11.56 for ≥45%). Additionally, TIT was a significant predictor of LVEF improvement independent of baseline LVEF in both short (4.96%, 95% CI, 0.72 to 9.19, P=0.02) and long term (6.24%, 95% CI, 0.46 to 12.02, P=0.03) followup. Consequently, BMSC therapy allows LVEF improvement in prolonged TIT and future studies for BMSC should include TIT ≥ 6 hours as an inclusion criterion.
Modelling the Drugs Therapy for HIV Infection with Discrete-Time Delay
Authors: Zhou Xueyong , Shi Xiangyun
Published: January 2014

A discrete-time-delay differential mathematical model that described HIV infection of CD4+T cells with drugs therapy is analyzed. The stability of the two equilibria and the existence of Hopf bifurcation at the positive equilibrium are investigated. Using the normal form theory and center manifold argument, the explicit formulas which determine the stability, the direction, and the period of bifurcating periodic solutions are derived. Numerical simulations are carried out to explain the mathematical conclusions.
Correlation of Self-Reported Questionnaire (KOOS) with Some Objective Measures in Primary OA Knee Patients
Authors: Sivachidambaram Kulandaivelan , Ateef Mahamed , Tahseen Shaziya
Published: January 2014

Purpose. Objective of the present study was to see the correlation of subjectively measured KOOS questionnaire with objectively measured 6-minute walk test (6-MWT), age, height, weight, and BMI.Participants. 251 subjects with OA knee based on American College of Rheumatology criteria.Methods. After passing inclusion and exclusion criteria, the following parameters were recorded: age, height, weight, and BMI. Then subjects were asked to fill KOOS questionnaire; then all subjects were asked to do self-paced walk for 6 minutes.Analysis. Spearman rank test was done to see the correlation. Significant level was set atP<0.05.Results. 6-MWT had a weak correlation with KOOS-ADL (rho 0.461) and strong correlation with KOOS-symptom, KOOS-pain, and KOOS-sports and very strong correlation with KOOS-QOL. BMI had a strong correlation with KOOS-pain, KOOS-symptom, KOOS-ADL, and KOOS-sports and very strong correlation with KOOS-QOL. Weight had a weak correlation with KOOS-symptom, KOOS-ADL, and KOOS-sports and strong correlation with KOOS-pain and KOOS-QOL. All the above values were significant withP<0.001.Conclusion. KOOS is strongly positively correlated with 6-MWT and negatively correlated with BMI. Its correlation strength has decreased with weight.
Cyanuric Chloride as an Efficient Catalyst for the Synthesis of 2,3-UnsaturatedO-Glycosides by Ferrier Rearrangement
Authors: Yang Xiaojuan , Li Na
Published: January 2014

Cyanuric chloride has been found to be an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of 2,3-unsaturatedO-glycosides from the reaction of 3,4,6-tri-O-acetyl-D-glucal and a wide range of alcohols in dichloromethane at room temperature. The experimental procedure is simple, and the products are obtained in high yields.
A Novel Homozygous Mutation in the EC1/EC2 Interaction Domain of the Gap Junction Complex Connexon 26 Leads to Profound Hearing Impairment
Authors: Birkenhäger Ralf , Prera Nicola , Aschendorff Antje , Laszig Roland , Arndt Susan
Published: January 2014

To date, about 165 genetic loci or genes have been identified which are associated with nonsyndromal hearing impairment. In about half the cases, genetic defects in theGJB2gene (connexin 26) are the most common cause of inner-ear deafness. The genesGJB2andGJB6are localized on chromosome 13q11-12 in tandem orientation. Connexins belong to the group of “gap junction” proteins, which form connexons, each consisting of six connexin molecules. These are responsible for the exchange of ions and smaller molecules between neighboring cells. Mutational analysis in genesGJB2andGJB6was brought by direct sequencing of the coding exons including the intron transitions. Here we show in the participating extended family a homozygous mutation c.506G>A, (TGC>TAC) p.Cys169Tyr, in theGJB2gene, which could be proven for the first time and led to nonsyndromal severe hearing impairment in the afflicted patients. The mutation is located in the EC1/EC2 interaction complex of the gap junction connexon 26 complex and interrupts the K+circulation and therefore the ion homeostasis in the inner ear. The homozygous mutation p.Cys169Tyr identified here provides a novel insight into the structure-function relationship of the gap junction complex connexin/connexon 26.
Fast Threshold Selection Algorithm of Infrared Human Images Based on Two‐Dimensional Fuzzy Tsallis Entropy
Authors: Xia Dong-xue , Li Chun-gui , Yang Shu-hong
Published: January 2014

Infrared images are fuzzy and noisy by nature; thus the segmentation of human targets in infrared images is a challenging task. In this paper, a fast thresholding method of infrared human images based on two‐dimensional fuzzy Tsallis entropy is introduced. First, to address the fuzziness of infrared image, the fuzzy Tsallis entropy of objects and that of background are defined, respectively, according to probability partition principle. Next, this newly defined entropy is extended to two dimensions to make good use of spatial information to deal with the noise in infrared images, and correspondingly a fast computation method of two‐dimensional fuzzy Tsallis entropy is put forward to reduce its computation complexity from O(L2) to O(L). Finally, the optimal parameters of fuzzy membership function are searched by shuffled frog‐leaping algorithm following maximum entropy principle, and then the best threshold of an infrared human image is computed from the optimal parameters. Compared with typical entropy‐based thresholding methods by experiments, the method presented in this paper is proved to be more efficient and robust.